Abstract: An endoscope includes a first tube having a proximal end and distal end, a second tube having a proximal end and distal end, and a control rod movably coupled to the first tube and secured to the second tube for allowing the second tube to be rotated out of lengthwise alignment with and axially movable with respect to the first tube. The first tube includes concentrically disposed optical fibers with ends terminating at the distal end of the first tube. The second tube includes separate concentrically disposed optical fibers with ends terminating at both the proximal and distal ends of the second tube. When the first and second tubes are longitudinally aligned, at least some of the optical fibers in the second tube are substantially aligned with those in the first tube such that light is coupled therebetween. Both of the first and second tubes are capable of receiving imaging means.

Abstract: An endoscope includes a handle body having first and second ends and having a channel region therein with the channel being exposed on at least one side of the handle body. A cover is disposed on the handle body with a portion of the cover disposed in over exposed region of the channel. An end piece is disposed over the first end of the handle body and a first tube having a channel provided therein is coupled to the second end of the handle body. The endoscope further includes a sheath disposed over the first tube and removably coupled to a first one of the tube and the second end of the handle body.