Abstract: A method and apparatus for exploration of the bile duct is provided wherein an endoscope having a probe of sufficiently small diameter to be inserted into the cystic duct is utilized. The probe has channels therein including conventional illuminating, viewing and irrigation facilities. In addition, a separate passageway is provided for a malleable stylet. This malleable stylet gives the scope the necessary rigidity and shape to be introduced and controlled precisely within the bile duct while at the same time allows the scope to be individually reconfigured as needed during an operation to meet the particular anatomical needs of a patient.

Abstract: A rack for storing an endoscope having a control section, an insertion tube, and an universal tube is disclosed. The rack includes a planar base which is disposed generally vertically. An irregularly shaped rest extends perpendicularly from one face of the base and includes a generally straight front portion extending upwardly from the bottom front of the base to a position below the top of the base and a generally convex portion extending downwardly from the upper end of the front portion to the bottom rear of the base. A vertically disposed planar cover is spaced from the planar base by the rest. This cover extends vertically above the rest so that a snug holder for the endoscope is provided with the control section resting against the front portion and the universal tube draping over the convex portion. With this construction, the insertion tube hangs substantially vertically from the control section and the remainder of the universal tube also hangs substantially vertically.