Abstract: A handle device for an endoscope incorporates controls for adjusting the degree of curvature of the distal tip portion of the endoscope as well as the degree of extension of the surgical instrument beyond the distal end of the endoscope's working lumen. The handle member comprises a generally hollow body which is dimensioned to be readily grasped by the surgeon and it incorporates a thumb-slide having a ratchet surface thereon, the thumb-slide being joined to a pull-wire extending the length of the endoscope and fastened at its distal end to the body of the endoscope. By depressing and longitudinally sliding the thumb-slide, the curvature of the distal end of the steerable endoscope is controlled. The degree of extension of the working instrument beyond the distal end of the working lumen is controlled by a rotatable threaded rod which is designed to produce only translational motion to the instrument without any twisting thereof.