Abstract: A disposable protective sheath for covering the dilating members of a speculum which are partially insertable into the vaginal cavity of a patient during a gynecological endoscopic examination. The sheath protects against transmission of potentially harmful micro-organisms via the speculum while still allowing visual and instrumental access to the vaginal cavity by the examining physician, yet the sheath does not interfere with the normal operation of the speculum.

Abstract: An improved vaginal speculum for photodynamic therapy of intraepithelial tissue and in particular vaginal, cervical and vulvar neoplasia utilizes a precisely and accurately positionable optic fiber through which a predetermined dose of light in the range of 620 to 700 nanometers is delivered over a controlled area which has been previously treated with photodynamic therapeutic substances. In particular, the neoplastic area has been treated with hematoporphyrin derivatives and other photosensitizers which are selectively taken into the cancerous tissue. Exposure to the appropriate wavelength laser light photoactivates the absorbed hematoporphyrins causing the release of singlet oxygen which internally oxidizes and ultimately causes cell death.

Abstract: A gynecologic instrument or uterine mobilizer having a tube with one end fitted to a tube holder and another end attached to a journal pivotally mounted and maintained within a channel in the head of the instrument via a pin engaging a groove in the head. It is adapted to be disassembled by first releasing the tube from the tube holder and rotating the journal to which the tube is attached a prescribed degree to permit the pin to disengage the groove in the head to permit the tube to be removed from the head.