Abstract: A system for packaging disposable endoscope sheaths so that they do not become contaminated prior to use during shipment, storage and installation on an endoscope. The packaging system also prevents the spread of contamination after use while the sheath is being removed from the endoscope and then discarded. The sheath is shipped in an elongated, flexible bag having a length substantially equal to the length of the insertion tube of the endoscope and a diameter substantially larger than the diameter of the insertion tube. The sheath and bag may be shipped in a sterile tray having a spiral recess containing the sheath, bag and funnel-like container or bag holding the tubing of the air, water, and suction channels. Installation of the sheath on the endoscope is accomplished by inflating the sheath while it is in the bag so that the sheath expands until it contacts the wall of the bag.

Abstract: A system for packaging disposable endoscope sheaths so that they do not become contaminated prior to use during shipment, storage and installation on an endoscope. The packaging system also prevents the spread of contamination after use while the sheath is being removed from the endoscope and then discarded. The sheath is shipped in an elongated, flexible bag having a length substantially equal to the length of the insertion tube of the endoscope and a diameter substantially larger than the diameter of the insertion tube. The sheath and bag may be shipped in a sterile tray having a spiral recess containing the sheath, bag and funnel-like container or bag holding the tubing of the air, water, and suction channels. Installation of the sheath on the endoscope is accomplished by inflating the sheath while it is in the bag so that the sheath expands until it contacts the wall of the bag.

Abstract: A contamination system for endoscopes having a handle, an insertion tube projecting from the handle, and control knobs detachably mounted on control shafts projecting from the handle to control the angular orientation of distal end of the insertion tube. The handle is placed in a liquid-impermeable bag, with the control shafts projecting through an aperture in the bag. The control knobs are then attached to the shafts prior to performing an endoscopic procedure. After the procedure has been completed, the control knobs are removed from the shafts and decontaminated, the handle is removed from the bag, and the bag is discarded.