CA2110695A1 - Speculum - Google Patents
SpeculumInfo
- Publication number
- CA2110695A1 CA2110695A1 CA002110695A CA2110695A CA2110695A1 CA 2110695 A1 CA2110695 A1 CA 2110695A1 CA 002110695 A CA002110695 A CA 002110695A CA 2110695 A CA2110695 A CA 2110695A CA 2110695 A1 CA2110695 A1 CA 2110695A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- blade members
- speculum
- dilator
- speculum according
- blade
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
- A61B1/32—Devices for opening or enlarging the visual field, e.g. of a tube of the body
Abstract
A speculum (10) having a dilator (12) for insertion into a body cavity of a patient and an opening mechanism (14) for opening the dilator (12) to dilate the body cavity. The dilator (12) has at least two dilator blade members (16) which are pivotal. The opening mechanism (14) consists of a collar (70) which is rotatable to contact and bear against the blade members (16). This causes the blade members (16) to pivot and move apart, thereby opening the dilator (12). This results in the body cavity of the patient being dilated which allows for easier examination thereof.
Description
wo 92/21279 ~ 9 3 PCT/AV92/00261 TITLE
SPECULUM
DESCRIPTION
_ The present invention relates to a speculum.
S FIELD OF THE INVENTION
A speculum is an instrument for dilating a body cavity of a patient. Such cavity may be the vagina, rectum or ear, etc of the patient.
ConventiGnal speculums are generally rather cumbersome to use requiring two handed operatisn. Additionally, they do .
not provide a uniform dilation of the body cavity, and they have a narrow rear opening. This makes visibility and instrument insertion c~mbersome also. Further, they are generally made of metal, the cold surface of which ~an be quite uncomfortable for the pa~ien~.
The present invention provides a speculum which is relatively easy to use - insertion, dilation (opening), locking, unlocking and removal can all be effected wi~h one hand. Insertion may be effected in a single movement.
The speculum of the present invention may be made for left or right hand use.
The speculum of the present invention provides uniform dilation of the tissue of the body cavity to create relativ~l~ large dilation of the body cavity for visibility with improved comfort for the patient.
The speculum of the present in~ention is relatively compact and may be made from a light-weight material, e.g.
plastics.
S~APX 9F T~E _NVENTION
~ ` ~
W092/21279 ~ 1 1 0 ~9 5 - 2 - PCT/AU92/00261 In accordance with one aspec~ of the present invention there is provided a speculum comprising:
dilator means for insertion into a body cavity of a patient; and, opening means for opening said dil tor means to dilate said body cavity, wherein said dilator means comprises at least two blade members which are pivotal and said opening means which is movable to contact and bear against said blade members to cause said blade members to pivot such that said dila~or means opens ~o dilate said body cavity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a first perspective view of a first embodimen~
of a speculum in accordance with the present invention, showing the dilator closed;
Figure 2 is a second perspective view of the specul~m shown in Figure 1, showing the dilator open;
Figure 3 is a sectional side elevation view of the speculum shown in Figure l with the dilator closed;
Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a blade member and the tubular member of the speculum shown in Figure l;
Figure 5 is a partly exploded perspective view of the rear of the speculum shown in Figure 1;
Figure 6 ~s a front elevation view of the movable collar of the speculum shown in Figure 1;
Figure 7 is a detail perspective view of the ratchet arrangement of the movable collar;
Figure 8 is a rear eleYation view of the speculum shown in Fi~ure l;
WO92/21279 3 ~~ 9 ~ PCT/AV92/00261 Figure 9 is a first perspective view of the dilator of a second embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention, showing thP dilator closed;
Figure l0 is a second perspective view of the dilator shown in Figure 9, showing ~the dilator open.
Figure ll is a perspective view of the dilator of a third embodLment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention showing the dilator closed;
Figure 12 is a front elevation view of the movable collar of ~he speculum of thejthird embodiment;
Fi~ure 13 is a perspective view of the dilator of a fourth embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention showing the dilator partly open; and, Figure 14 is a front elevation view of the movable collar of the speculum of the fourth embodiment~
DESCRIPTION OF ln~ INVENTION
In Figures 1 to B there is shown a speculum l0 in accordance with the present invention.
The speculum l0 shown in Figures l to 8 may be used for dilating the vagina of a patient, i.e. the speculum l0 shown in Figures 1 to 8 may be a vaginal speculum.
The speculum l0 comprises a dilator 12 for insertion into a body cavity, i.e. the vagina, of a patient and an opening mechanism, shown generally at 14, such that the dilator 12 may be opened to dilate the vagina of the patient.
The dilator 12 comprises (dilator) blade members 16a, 16b, 16c and 16d, collecti~ely herein referred to as "blade members l6".
The dilato~ 12 of the speculum l0 shown in Figures 1 to 8 WQ92/21279 ~1 l D ~ 9 ~ 4 _ PCT/AU92/0026l has four blade members 16.
For use as a vaginal speculum, it is preferable that four blade members 16 are provided.
However, other numbers of blade members 16 may be used for S a vaginal speculum as will be later herein described.
Each of the blade members 16 comprises a proximal part 18 and a distal end 20. The blade members 16 are pivotally retained near their proximal par~s 18 as will be later herein described.
Each of t~e blade members 16-has a rear-portion 22 in the region of its proximal part 18. Each rear portion 22 has a forward part 23 which is substantially triangular.
However, rather than the forward par~ 23 of each rear portion 22 tapering forwardly to an apex, a shank-like portion 24 projects or extends fr~m each forward part 23.
The shank-like portions 24 of the blade members 16a and 16b extend to rounded edges 26 which terminate the blade members 16a and 16b at their respective distal parts 20.
The shank-like portions 24 of the blade members 16c and 16d ex~end to curved surface portions 28 which terminate the biade members 16c and 16d at their respec~ive distal parts 20.
The blade members 16a and 16b are opposed, and the blade members_16c and 16d are opposed.
The blade member 16d has a small notch 30 at its distal part 20, adjacent its curved surface portion 28.
The blade members 16c and 16d are longer than the blade members 16a and 16b. The blade member 16c is slightly longer than the blade me~ber 16d.
, .,.~ " . . ...
, .. .. . . . .
' 6 !~ 5 Each of the blade members 16 is curved in its transverse direction. The direction of this curvature is represented by the double arrow T in Figure 2.
The cur~ed surface portions 28 of the blade members 16c and 16d are arranged such that when the dilator 12 is closed (shown in Figures 1 and 3), the curved surface portions 28 define a rounded dome-like surface as can be seen in Figures 1 and 3. The curved surface portio~s 28 of the blade mem~ers 16c and 16d extend beyond the rounded edges 26 of the blade members 16a and 16b to form the rounded dome~ e surface hereinabove described.
The blade members 16 are arranged such that when the dilator 12 is closed, the forward par~s 23 of the rear portions 22 define a substantially dome-like shaped form with the shank-like portions 24 extended therefrom in a substantially tubular form, as is best seen in Figure l.
The ~lade members 16 are arranged such that even when the dilator 12 is closed, there are still gaps 32 between adjacent b}ade members 16.
The notch 30 in the blade member 16d ensures that a gap 32 also exists between the edges of the curved surface portions 28 of the blade members 16c and 16d.
The blade members 16 of the dilator 12 are pivotally retained ,as will be now described.
Figure 4 shows the arr~ ment which enables pivotal movement of the blade m ..~ers 16. However, in Figure 4 only the blade member 16a has been shown for clarity ~f representation.
The blade members 16 are pivotally supported by a support WO92/21279 ~ 6 9 ~ - - 6 - pcr/Au92/oo26 member 34 having a first (forward) end 36 and a second (rear) end 38. The support member 34 is of substantially shcrt tubular form. The support member 34 defines a passage 39 therethrough, and an opening 39a at the rear of the specu~um lO. The blade members 16 extend outwardly from the support member 34 in side by side, or adjacent, manner when the dilator 12 is closed.
The support member 34 is provided with lug-like members 40 at-the first end 36. The lug-like me~bers 40 are spaced around-the edge of the support membsr 34 at the first end 3~. .
The lug-like members 40 have curved su ff aces 42 suc~ that the lug-like members 40 are of an approximately semi-ellipsoidal shape~ The curved surfaces 42 slope away from the cen~ral region of the lug-like members 40 to rounded apexes 43 on either side in the circumferential direction of the support member 34.
The rear portion 22 of each blade member 16 is pro~ided with a recess 44 on its inside face 46 adjacent respective side edges 47 at its proximal part 18.
The lug-like members 40 and recesses 44 are contoured such that the recesses 44 of each blade member l6 mate with respective lug-like members 40. This is shown in Figure 4. Each r,ecess 44 of each blade member 16 mates, or sits, on half a lug-like member 40. In this way, adjacent blade members 16 sit on respective halves of a lug-like member 40 such that ~he blade members 16 are pivotally supported by ~he support member 34.
- The side edges 47 of ~ach rear portion 22 (of each blade WO9~t21~79 ~ 6 9 5 PCT/AU9 /00261 members 16) taper slightly toward the termination of the :
rear portion 22 of each blade member 16. These tapered edges are shown by reference numeral 48 in Figures 4 and 5.
A collar 50 is provided around the blade members 16 over their rear portions 22. The collar 50 surrounds the rear portions 22 between the recesses 44 and the termina~ions of th~ rear portions 22. Conne~ting ribs 52 ~best seen in - Figure 5) extend from the support member 34 to the collar 50. The connectin~ ribs 52 are positioned between respective adjacent blade members 16. The taperèd`edges 48 form spa~es between the side edges 4i of adjacent blade memb2rs 16 where the connecting ribs 52 may be provided.
The connecting ri~s 52 connect the support member 34 and the collar 50.
In this way, the blade members 16 are pivotally supported on the support member 34, around the periphery thereof, by the collar 50, with the blade members 16 extending outwardly therefrom.
The lug-like members 40 and the matching contoured recesses 44 of the blade members 16 permit pivotal movement of the blade members 16. Thus, the lug~ e members 40 act as pivotal fulcrums. The connecting ribs 52 connect the support member 34 and the collar 50 to ensure that the blade ~embers 16 are retained in position with respec~ to the support member 34.
The support member 34 is also provided with a lug 54 at the second end 38. The lug 54 serves as a thumb grip and proje~ts rearwardly of the support member 34. A pair of incisions ~6 extend f~om the lug ~4 in the support member WO92/~1279 PCT/~U92/00261 6 .~ 5 - 8 -34 a short distance. This permits the lug 54 to be depressed slightly and then return to its position shown in Figure 5 when released.
A pawl member ~8 is provided just forwardly of the lug 54, between the incisions 56.
A handle 50 is provided on the collar 50. The handle 60 extends radially from the collar 50~
The rear portions 22 of the blade members 16 each terminate in a substcntially wedge shaped por~lon 62.
The substan~ially wedge shaped portions 62 extend in the transverse direction T of the blade members 16.
The substantially wedge shaped portions 62 each taper in the sa~e direction to a respective tip 64. In Figure 5, this direction is shown as a counter-clockwise directio~.
Each of the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 has a base 66 at an edge of the termination of the rear portion 22 of a blade member 16. The bases 66 are angled.
The substantially wedge shaped portions 62 taper to the tips 64 spaced from the bases 66. The substantially wedge shaped partions 62 extend in the transverse direction T of the blade members 16 to substantially half way around the terminating edge of the rear portions 22 of the blade members 16 where they terminate in the tips 64.
A cut-away portion 68 is provided in each of the blade members 16 adjacent the tip 64 such that the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 form the extremities of the rear poxtions 22 of the blade members 16 at the proximal par~s 1~ .
The spening mechanism 14 csmprises a movable collar 70.
~ ,t3~
WO92~2127s PCT/~U92/00261 The movable collar 70 is provided around the support member 34, near its second end 38.
The support member 34 is provided with a flange 72 (shown in Figure 3) at its second end 38 which retains the movable collar 70 in place on ~he support member 34. The movable - collar 70 has an inside ~front) face 74 ~visible in Figures 5 and 6) which is provided with a cam like arrangement 76.
The inside face 74 is the one that faces the substantially wedge shap~d portions 62 of the blade mem~ers 16. This can be seen in Figures 5 and 6.
The cam~ e arrangement 76 comprises arcuate portions 78a, 78b, 78c and 78d (collec~ively referred to as "arcuate portions 78") which are raised above a lower su~face 80.
The arcuate portions 78 curve inwardly in the direction from near the outer side 82 toward near the inner side 84 of the movable collar 70. The directio~ of this inward curving of the arcuatP portions 78 is clockwise a seen in Figure 6.
Each arcuate portion 78 forms a tip 86 at its forward end 88 with a rear surface 90 of an adjacent arcuate portion 78. The rear surface 90 of each arcuate portion 78 is angled such that it forms an angled recess 92 with the remainder of the arcuate portion 78.
The arcuate portions 78 are arranged such that the arcuate portions 78a and 78b have the same curvature. The arcuate portion 78c has a greater curvature than the arcuate portions 78a and 78b such that the tip 86 of the arcuate portion 78 is closer to the inner side 84 of the movable - collar 70 than the tips 86 of the arcuate portions 78a and WO92/21279 ~ 6 ~ ~ - 1 o - PCT/AU92/002Sl 78b. The arcuate portion 78d, in turn, has a greater curvature than the arcuate portion 78c (and the arcuate portions 78a and 78b) such that the tip 86 of the arcuate portion 78d is closer to the inner side 84 of the movable S collar 70 than the tip 86 of the arcuate portion 78c and the tips 86 of the arcuate portions 78a and 78b).
The arcuate portions 78a, 78b, 78c and 78d operatively cooperate with blade members 16a, 16b, 16c and 16d, respectively, to open the dilator 12. This will be later described. :
The movable collar 70 is also provided with a ratchet arrangement 94 and a thumb operable handle 96. The ratchet arrangement 94 is provided on the inner side 84 of the movable collar 70 and the handle 96 projects from the outer side 82 of the movable collar 70. The handle 96 is arranged such that it projects radially outwardly from the movable collar 70 in the region of the rear part of the arcuate portion 78b, i.e. near its rear surface 90.
The ratchet arrangement 94 is positioned such that, viewed from the inside face 74 of the movable collar 70, it is positioned beneath the handle 96, extending a short distance beyond the handle 96 on the right and extending a greater distance on the left to approximately half the leng~h of the arcuate portion 78c.
In the position of the msvable collar 70 shown in Figure 1, i.e. when the dilator 12 is closed, the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 are positioned such that the (angled) bases 66 of the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 are close to, or in abu~ment with, respective rear surfaces 9O
WO~2/21279 ~i 1 ~ 6 ~ ~ PCT/AUg2/00261 that form the angled recesses 92. In this position, the (anglefi) bases 66 are engaged in the angled recesses 92, thereby preventing any pivotal movement of the blade - members 16. This position of the substantially wedge shaped poxtions 62 is exemplified in broken lines by arrow A in Figure 6 which shows th position of the substantially wedge shaped portion 62 of the blade members 16~.
When the movable collar 70 is moved to the position shown in Figure 2 (by moving the handle 96 in the direction shown 1~ by arrow B in Figure l), the relative positioning of the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 of the blade members 16 is exemplified by arrow C in Figure 6. Figure 6 shows the position of the substantially wedge shaped portion 62 of the blade member l6b. This will be further herein lS described.
The speculum lO further comprises a locking mechanism 98.
The locki~g mechanism 98 comprises the pawl 58 and ratchet arrangement 94.
When the pawl 58 engages with the ratchet arrangement 94, the movable collar 70 is locked against movement in the direction ~pposite to the arrow B.
The pawl 58 is angled such that the ratchet arrangement 94 allows the movable collar 70 to be readily rotated in the direction shown by arrow B in Figure 1, (to open the dilator l2) but prevents movement in the reverse direction (to close the dilator 12) unless the pawl 58 is disengaged from the ratchet arrangement g4. A pin 99 is provided to limit the travel of the movable collar 70 in the direction B. The pin 99 extends form the base of the handle 60. The WO92/21279 ~il ~ ~ 3 S 12 PCT/AU92/00261 handle 96 abuts with the pin 99 to thereby limit travel of the movable collar 70.
Preferably, the speculum 10 is made of light-weight material, e.g. plas~ics.
Preferably, the speculum 10 is made of transparent material, e.gP clear plastics.
Figures 9 and 10 show the dilator 12' of a second embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention. The same reference numerals are used in relation to the speculum of the second embodiment as are used for the speculum lO of the fir~t embodiment to denote corresponding parts. However, in referring to the speculum of the second embodiment a superscript (') follows the numbers to enable the embodiments to be readily distinguished.
The speculum of the second embodiment is s~bstantially the same as the speculum 10 o~ the first embodiment except for the dilator 12'. Accordingly, only the dilator 12' of the speculum of the second embodiment is shown in Figures 9 and 10, and the following description will be limited to the features of difference of the dilator 12'. However, it is to be understood that the remainder of the speculum of the second embodiment is substantially the same as the speculum 10 of the, first embodiment hereinbefore described.
The dilator 12' comprises (dilator) blade members 16a', 16b', 16c' and 16d', collectively referred to as "blade members 15"'.
The blade members 16' have a structure different from that of the blade members 16 of the speculum 10.
WO92J21279 ~ Pcr/AU92/0026 The forward part 23' of the rear portion 22' of each blade member 16' has a gentler taper from which a shank-like portion 24' extends. The remainder of the rear portion 22' of each blade member 16' is the same as that of the rear portions 22 of ~he blade members 16 of the speculum 10.
The shank-like portions 24' of the blade members 15' extend in a (longitudinally) tapering manner from respective forward portions 23' to a narrower tip 27' at the dis~al par~s 20' of the blade members 16'. The narrower tip 27' of each blad~ member 16' itself curves inwardly (in a transverse direction).
The blade mem~ers 16' are of tne same size and leng~h.
The blade members 16' are arranged such that when the dilator 12' is closed (shown in Fisure 9) the dilator 12' is substantially in the space of a cone. The base of this cone is comprised of the forward par~s ~3' of the rear portions 22' of the bladP members 16l and the apex is formed by the tips 27' of the blade members 16' at the distal ends 20'. This apex is xounded since the narrower tips 27' of the blade members 16' at their distal ends 20' curve inwardly.
~ach of the blade members 16' is also curved in the transverse direction T.
In this way, the blade members 16l define the cone shape referred to above.
The blade members 16' are positioned such that even when the dilator 12' is in its closed position (as shown in Figure 1) ther~ is still a gap 32' between adjacent blade members 16'.
W092/21279 ~ 9 ~ - 14 - PCT/AUg2/00261 Figures 11 and 12 show the dilator 121' and the movable collar 70", respectively, of a third embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention.
The same reference numerals are used in relation to the speculum of the third embodiment as are used for the speculum 10 of the firs~ embodiment to den0t~ corresponding parts. However, in referring to the speculum o~ the third embodiment a double superscript (") follows the num~ers to enable the embodiments to be readily distin~uished.
The speculum of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the speculum 10 of the first embodiment. The major differences are in the dilator 12" and the cam~ e arrangement 76" of the mova~le collar 70".
Accordingly, only the dilator 12" and the movable collar 70" of the speculum of the third embodiment are shown in Figures ll and 12, and the following description will be generally limited to the features of difference of the dilator 12" and the cam-like arrangement 76" of the movable collar 70".
However, it is to be understood that the remainder of the spéculum of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the speculum 19 of the first embodiment hereinbefore described.
The dilator 12" has only two (dilator) blade members 16a"
and 16b" (collectively referred to as "blade members 16"") and the czm-like arrangement 76" has only two arcuate portions 78a" and 78b". ~Accordingly, only two lug-like members 40" (obscured) arç provided on the support member 34" (obscured).
WO92/21279 - 1 S - ~ 1 i O Ç 9 5 PCT/AU~2/00261 The blade members 16" have a structure different from that of the bl de mem~ers 16 of the speculum 10.
The blade members 16a" and 16b" can be considered as consisting, respectively, of one of the blade members 16c and lod ( of the speculum 10) and half of each of the blade - members 16a and 16b ~of the speculum lQ).
Accordingly, the foxward parts 23" of the rear portion 22"
of each blade member 16" is substantially semi-dome in shape with the shank-like portions 24" extending therefrom. When the dilator 12" is closed, these forward parts 23" togPther define a substantially dome-like shaped form, with the shank-like portions 24" extending there~rom in a substantially tubular form.
The shank-like portions 24" of the blade members 16" extend from respective forward portions 23" to curved surface positions 28" at the distal parts 20" o the blade members 16".
The blade member 16b" has a smal~ notch (obscured) (corresponding to the notch 30 of the blade member 16d of the speculum 10) adjacent its curved surface portion 28".
The blade member 16b" is slightly longer than the blade member 16a".
Each of the blade members 16" is curved in its transverse direction T".
The curved surface portions 28" are arranged such that they define a rounded dome-like surface when the dilator 12" is closed.
The remainder of ~he blade members 16", i.e. the r~ar portions 22", is similar to the blade members 16 o~ the ~11l)~95 WO~2/21279 . PCT/AU92/00261 speculum 10, except that the rear portions 22" are approximately twice the length in the transverse direction T" as the rear portions 22 tof the speculum 10).
Since the dilator 12" of the speculum of the third embodiment has two blade members 16", the cam-like - arrangement 76" has two arcuate portions 78a" and 78b".
The arcuate portions 78a" and 78b" operatively cooperate with the blade members 16a" and 16b", respectively, to open the dila~.or 12".
-10 The arcuate portion 78~" has a greater curvature than the arcuate portion 78a", such that the tip 86" of the arcuate portion 78b" is closer to the innPr side 84" of the movable collar 70" than the tip 86" of the arcuate portion 78a".
Fi~ure 12 shows an alternative curvature for the arcuate portion 78b" in broken lines 78b"a. The arcuate portion 78b"a has ~he same curvature as the arcuate portion 78a".
Figures 13 and 14 show the dilator 12! and the movable collar 70!, respectively, of a fourth embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention.
The same reference numerals are used in relation to the specu}um of the fourth embodimcnt as are used for the speculum 10 of the first embodiment to denote corxesponding parts. However, in referring to the speculum of the fourth embodimen,t an exclamation mark (!) follows the numbers to enable the embodiments to be readily distinguished.
The speculum of the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as the speculum 10 of the first embodiment. The major differences are in the dilator 12! and the cam-like arrangement 76! of the movable collar 70!. Accordin~ly, O92/21279 ~ 5 PCT/AU92/00261 only the dilator 12! and the movable collar 70 ! of the speculum of the fourth embodiment are shown in Figures 13 and 14, and the following description will be generally limited to the features of difference of the dilator 12!
S ~nd the cam arrangement 76! of tne movable collar 70!.
However, it is to be understood that the remainder of the speculum of ~he fourth embodiment is substan~ially the same as the speculum 10 of the first embodiment hereinbefore described.
The dilator 12! has three (dilator) blade members 16a!, 16b! and 16c! (collectively referred to as "blade members 16!~, and the cam arrangement 76! has three arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c! (Accordingly, only two luy-like members 40! (obscured) are provided on the support member 34! (obscured).
The blade members 16! have a structure different from that of the blade members 16 of the speculum 10.
Each rear portion 22! of the blade members 16! has a forward part 23! which is substantially triangular (though of a size different from the forward part 23 of the speculum 10) with the shank-like portions 24! ex~ending therefrom. When the dilator 12! is closed, these forward parts 23! together define a substantially dome-like shaped ~orm, w~-t,h the shank-like portions 24! extending therefrom in a substantially t~bular form.
The shank-like portions 24! of the blade members 16! extend from respective forward parts 23! to curved surface, portions 2B! at the distal parts 20! of the blade members 16! One or more of the ~l~de members 16a!, 16b! and 16c!
WO92~21279 ~ 18 - PCT/AU92/~0~61 may be pro~ided with a small notch 30! adjacen~ its curved surface portion 28!
The blade members 16a!, 16b! and 16c! are the same.
Each blade member 16! is curved in its transverse direction T!
- The curved surface portions 28! define a rounded dome-like surface when the dilator 12! is closed.
The remainder Qf the blade members 16!, i.e. the rear portions 22!, is similar to the blade members 16 of the~
lQ speculum 10, except that the rear portions 22'.are of a larger size than the rear portions 22 (of the speculum 10) but smaller than the rear portions 22" (of the speculu~ of the third embodiment).
Since the dilator 12! of the speculum of the fourth embodiment has three blade members 16!, the cam arrangement 76! has three arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c!
The arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c! operatively cooperate with the blade members 16a!, 16b! and 16c!, respectively, to open the dilator 12!
The arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c! ha~e the same c~rvature. In this way, the tips 86! of the arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c! are equally spaced from the inner side 84! of the movable collar 70!
ThP manne~ of use and operation of the speculum of the present invention will now be described, with particular reference to the speculum 10 of the first embodiment. The following description will be with reference to use of the speculum 10 as a vaginal speculum.
The speculum 10 may, for example, be used by a user, e.g.
WO92/21279 ~ 6 3 ~ PCT/AU92/0D261 medical practitioner, as a vaginal speculum in connection with the examination of, or carrying out a medical procedure on, a female patient. Such examination, for example, may be in relation to the cervix of the patient.
The speculum 10 is used to dilate the vagina of the - patient.
The medical practitioner holds the speculum 10 by gripping the handle 60 in his/her left hand with the blade member ;16c upper~ost and the handle-96 in the position shown in Figure-lO In this position, the dilator 12 is closed and the bases 66 of the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 ~of the blade members 16) are in abutment with the surfaces 90 to ensure that the dilator 12 remains closed. This is exemplified in Figure 6 by the arrow A which shows the position of the substantially wedge shaped portion 62 of the blade member 16b relative to the arcuate portion 78b.
The medical practitioner then inserts the end of the dilator 12 defined by the distal parts 20 of the blade members 16 into the opening of the vagina of the patient.
The dilator 12 is inserted into the vagina the re~uired distance. The dilator 12 is inserted in~o the patient's vagina such that the blade member 16c is uppermost, the blade member 16d lowermost, and the blade members 16a and 16b at th~ sides.
Since the wall of the patient's vagina has a natural tendency to remain collapsed, the blade members 16 are in close contact with the walls of the va~ina of the patient.
Once the dilator 12 has been inserted into the patient's vagin~ the appropriate distance, the medical practitioner O92/2l279 ~ 9S PCT~AUg2/00261 pushes on the handle 96 ~using the thumb of his/her left hand) in direction of arrow B shown in Figure 1. This causes the movable collar 70 to move, i.e. in the same direction ~, which the pawl 58 and the ratchet arrangement S 94 allow.
- As the movable collar 70 is moved in the direction shown by arrow B in Figure l, the arcuate portions 78 of the movable collar 70 bear against the rear portions 22 of the blade members 16 at the substantially wedge shaped-portions 62 and push against them. This is exemplified in Figure 6 by the arrow C which shows the position of the substantially wedge shaped portion 62 of the blade member 16b reIative to the arcuate portion 78b.
This action on the blade members 16 causes the blade members 16 to pivot by way of the recesses 44 and the lug-like members 40. The blade members 16 begin to separate and open ~i.e. the dilator 12 opens~ against the tendency of the wall of the vagina (of the patient~ to remain collapsed.
When the dilator 12 has been opened an appropria~e amount, ~he medical practitioner ceases pushing on the handle 96.
This stops the movab}e collar 70 from continuing to move, i~e. rotate, in the direction of arrow B. Further, ~he pawl 58 and ratchet arrangement 94 prevent the movable collar 70 from moving in the opposite direction. This keeps the movable collar 70 and blade members 16 in the se_ position with the dila~or 12 open. Thus, the pawl 58 and ratchet arrangement 94 pre~Jent the wall of the vagina (of the patient3 from collapsing to close th~ dilator 12. The WO92/21279 21 ~ 6 S 5 PCT/AU92~00261 ~ilator 12 is opened until the blade members 16 dilate the patient's vagina an appropriate amount, having regard to the action, or procedure, to be performed by the medical practitioner and the comfort of the patient.
S Due to the arrangement of the substantially wedqe shaped members 62 and the curva~ures of the arcuate portions 78, the blade members 16 open by different amounts upon rotation of the movable collar 70 in the direction of arrow B.
As previously hereinbefore described, ~he~curvature of the arcuate portions 78a and 78b is the same. As the movable collar 70 is rotated in the direction of arrow B, the arcuate portion 78a and 78b act on the blade members 16a and 16b, respectively. However, since the arcuate portions 78a and 78b are of a lesser curvature, they force the blade members 16a and 16b to pivot to a lesser extend and so the blade members 16a and 16b open a relatively small amount.
Thus, the blade members 16a and 16b reach their maximum opening before the blade member~ 16c and 16d and before the 2a movable collar 70 has moved through its maxim~m travel.
The arcuate portion 78c has a greater curvature than the arcuate portions 78a and 78b and so it acts on the blade member 16c for a relatively greater proportion of the travel of the movable collar 70. This causes the blade member 16c to continue opening, even after the blade members 16a and 16b have ceased to open.
Since the arcuate portion 78d is of the greatest curvature, it continues to act on the blade member 16d thereby further opening the blade member 16d, eYen after the other blade WO92/21279 ~ 5 - 22 - PCT/AU92/00261 members 16a, 16b and 16c have ceased to open notwithstanding that the movable collar 70 is still being rota~ed in the direction of arrow B.
Thus, the blade member 16d opens the greatest amount followed ~y blade member 16c, and the blade members 16a and 16b which open the least amount.
This variable opening of ~he blade members 16 also permits the medical practitioner to obtain clear access to the cervix o the patient. In this regard, the dilator 12 is opened, as hereinbéfore described, and the curved surface 28 of the blade member 16c is used to push upwardly a forward portion of the uterus wall to provide a clearer view of the cervix. The movable collar 70 can then be rotated further in the direction of the arrow B causing only the lower blade member 16d to continue to open. This allows the medical practitioner a clear view of the cervix of the patient without obstruction thereof by the wall of the uterus of the patient. Since the blade members 16 open outwardly in all directions the patient's vagina is dilated uniformly in all directions. The blade members 16 thus provide a rigid liner to retain the patient's vagina in a dilated condition. This provides a tunnel for the medical practitioner ~or clear viewing and instrument insertion.
This en~bles the medical practitioner to insert any required instruments into the patient's vagina through the opening 39a, passage 39 and the tunnel created by the blade members 16.
The opening 39a of the speculum 10 at the second (rear) end 38 of th~ support memDçr 34 is relatively large and is of W092~2127g - 23 - w~ll V 6 9 i~ PCTJAU92/00261 sufficient size for examination and instrument insPrtion by the medical practitioner. Its size does not depend on or vary with the extent of opening of the dilator 12.
When transparent, the speculum 10 enables the medical practitioner to see the patient's vaginal wall which may ~ssist in the examination.
When the dilator 12 is to be removed from the patient's vagina, the medical practitioner depresses the handle 54 (with his~her thumb) of his/her left hand which disengages the pawl 58 from the ratchet arrangement 94. The movable collar 70 moves back to the position shown in Figure 1 under the collapsing influence of the vaginal wall of the patient on the blade members 16. The arcuat~ portions 78 thus cease to bear against the blade members 16. The blade members 16 return to their positions shown in Figure 1, i.e. the closed position of the dilator 12.
The dilator 12 may then be removed from the patient's vagina.
The gaps 32 between the blade members 16 prevent the flesh o~ the vagin~l wall being pinched between the edges of adjacent blade members 16 when the dilator 12 is in its closed position~
Once removed, the speculum 10 may be discarded.
Thus, the,speculum 10 of the present invention may be a single use speculum.
The speculum 10 has been described as being used with the left hand of the medical practitionèr.
However, the speculum in accordance with the present invention m~y also be made ~or use with the right hand.
WO92/21279 ~ 11 0 6 9 ~ - 24 - PCT/hU92/00261 Thus, a speculum for use with the right hand of a user has the directions of the curvatures of the arcuate portions 78 and the directions of taper of the subs~antially wedge shaped portions 62 (of the speculum lO) reversed. Thus, the movable collar would then be moved ~using the right - hand) in the opposite direction to arrow B to open the dilator 12. The ratchet arran~ement 94 would be slightly repositioned and the pawl would be angled in reverse to the pawl 58 of the speculum lO.
In summary, the above parts would appear as mirror images in a speculum for right hand use.
The above description in relation to right handed use applies in a corresponding manner to the specul~ms of the second, third and fourth embodiments.
The speculum of the second embodiment ~Figures 9 and lOi is used in a similar manner as hereinbefore described with reference to the speculum lO of the first embodiment.
However, the shape of the blade members l6' of the speculum of the second embodiment may be more suitable for some procedures involving examination of the uterus of a patient.
The speculum of the third embodiment (Figures ll and 12) is used in a similar manner as hereinbefore described with rçference,to the speculum lO o~ the first embodiment. The arcuate por~ion 78b", in combination with the arcuate portion 78a", enables variable opening of the blade members 16" of the dilator 12". Howe~er, as an alternative ~o the arcuate portion 78b"an arcua~e portion 78b"a may be provided. ~he arcuate portion 78b"a has the same curvature wo 92/2l27g ~ 6 3 S PCT/AU92/0026l as the arcuate portion 78a". Thus, the arcuate portions 78a" and 78b"a provide the same amoun~ of opening of the blades 16" of the dilator 12". (In this regard, it is also possible to change the curvatures of the arcuate portions 78 of the speculum 10 such that they all have the same curvature. This provides the same amount of opening of the blades 16 of the dilator 12 of the speculum 10.) The speculum o the second embodiment may be us~d as a vaginal speculum.
The spe~ulum of the four~h embodiment ~Figures 13 and 14) is used in a similar manner as hereinbefore described with reference to the speculum 10 of the first embodiment.
However, the provision of three blade members 16! makes it more suitable for use as a rectal ~or anal) speculum.
Further, a rectal speculum may also be provided ~y replacing the three blade me~ber~ 16! with three blade members similar to the blade members 16' of the speculum of the second embodiment, but slightly larger in the transverse direction T!.
Preferably, a rectal speculum has three blade members which open the same amount.
Preferably, a vaginal speculum has four blade members which have variable opening.
However~ a speculum in accordance with the present in~ention may be provided with any suitable number of blade members and with the same or variable opening depending upon its application, e.g. depending upon which body cavity it is intended to be used for.
The presen~ invention pro~vides a speculum that can be WO92/2127Q . PCT/AU92/00261 69;~ 26 -operated using one hand - insertion, dilaticn, loc~ins, unlocking and removal can all be effected with one hand.
Thus, the medical practitioner always has at least one hand free.
S ~he speculum may be made for left or right handed use.
The speculum of the present invention is compact.
The speculum of the present invention may be made from a light-weight material and which does not cause discomfort to the patient, e.g. plastics. However, other materials are also suitable e.g. metal.
Preferably, the speculum is made of plastics which allows it to be readily made as a "single use" instrument and then discarded. This is important because the transfer of many diseases may not be preventable by mere sterilization of the instruments used.
Modifications and variations such as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed within the scope of the present invention.
..... .
SPECULUM
DESCRIPTION
_ The present invention relates to a speculum.
S FIELD OF THE INVENTION
A speculum is an instrument for dilating a body cavity of a patient. Such cavity may be the vagina, rectum or ear, etc of the patient.
ConventiGnal speculums are generally rather cumbersome to use requiring two handed operatisn. Additionally, they do .
not provide a uniform dilation of the body cavity, and they have a narrow rear opening. This makes visibility and instrument insertion c~mbersome also. Further, they are generally made of metal, the cold surface of which ~an be quite uncomfortable for the pa~ien~.
The present invention provides a speculum which is relatively easy to use - insertion, dilation (opening), locking, unlocking and removal can all be effected wi~h one hand. Insertion may be effected in a single movement.
The speculum of the present invention may be made for left or right hand use.
The speculum of the present invention provides uniform dilation of the tissue of the body cavity to create relativ~l~ large dilation of the body cavity for visibility with improved comfort for the patient.
The speculum of the present in~ention is relatively compact and may be made from a light-weight material, e.g.
plastics.
S~APX 9F T~E _NVENTION
~ ` ~
W092/21279 ~ 1 1 0 ~9 5 - 2 - PCT/AU92/00261 In accordance with one aspec~ of the present invention there is provided a speculum comprising:
dilator means for insertion into a body cavity of a patient; and, opening means for opening said dil tor means to dilate said body cavity, wherein said dilator means comprises at least two blade members which are pivotal and said opening means which is movable to contact and bear against said blade members to cause said blade members to pivot such that said dila~or means opens ~o dilate said body cavity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a first perspective view of a first embodimen~
of a speculum in accordance with the present invention, showing the dilator closed;
Figure 2 is a second perspective view of the specul~m shown in Figure 1, showing the dilator open;
Figure 3 is a sectional side elevation view of the speculum shown in Figure l with the dilator closed;
Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a blade member and the tubular member of the speculum shown in Figure l;
Figure 5 is a partly exploded perspective view of the rear of the speculum shown in Figure 1;
Figure 6 ~s a front elevation view of the movable collar of the speculum shown in Figure 1;
Figure 7 is a detail perspective view of the ratchet arrangement of the movable collar;
Figure 8 is a rear eleYation view of the speculum shown in Fi~ure l;
WO92/21279 3 ~~ 9 ~ PCT/AV92/00261 Figure 9 is a first perspective view of the dilator of a second embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention, showing thP dilator closed;
Figure l0 is a second perspective view of the dilator shown in Figure 9, showing ~the dilator open.
Figure ll is a perspective view of the dilator of a third embodLment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention showing the dilator closed;
Figure 12 is a front elevation view of the movable collar of ~he speculum of thejthird embodiment;
Fi~ure 13 is a perspective view of the dilator of a fourth embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention showing the dilator partly open; and, Figure 14 is a front elevation view of the movable collar of the speculum of the fourth embodiment~
DESCRIPTION OF ln~ INVENTION
In Figures 1 to B there is shown a speculum l0 in accordance with the present invention.
The speculum l0 shown in Figures l to 8 may be used for dilating the vagina of a patient, i.e. the speculum l0 shown in Figures 1 to 8 may be a vaginal speculum.
The speculum l0 comprises a dilator 12 for insertion into a body cavity, i.e. the vagina, of a patient and an opening mechanism, shown generally at 14, such that the dilator 12 may be opened to dilate the vagina of the patient.
The dilator 12 comprises (dilator) blade members 16a, 16b, 16c and 16d, collecti~ely herein referred to as "blade members l6".
The dilato~ 12 of the speculum l0 shown in Figures 1 to 8 WQ92/21279 ~1 l D ~ 9 ~ 4 _ PCT/AU92/0026l has four blade members 16.
For use as a vaginal speculum, it is preferable that four blade members 16 are provided.
However, other numbers of blade members 16 may be used for S a vaginal speculum as will be later herein described.
Each of the blade members 16 comprises a proximal part 18 and a distal end 20. The blade members 16 are pivotally retained near their proximal par~s 18 as will be later herein described.
Each of t~e blade members 16-has a rear-portion 22 in the region of its proximal part 18. Each rear portion 22 has a forward part 23 which is substantially triangular.
However, rather than the forward par~ 23 of each rear portion 22 tapering forwardly to an apex, a shank-like portion 24 projects or extends fr~m each forward part 23.
The shank-like portions 24 of the blade members 16a and 16b extend to rounded edges 26 which terminate the blade members 16a and 16b at their respective distal parts 20.
The shank-like portions 24 of the blade members 16c and 16d ex~end to curved surface portions 28 which terminate the biade members 16c and 16d at their respec~ive distal parts 20.
The blade members 16a and 16b are opposed, and the blade members_16c and 16d are opposed.
The blade member 16d has a small notch 30 at its distal part 20, adjacent its curved surface portion 28.
The blade members 16c and 16d are longer than the blade members 16a and 16b. The blade member 16c is slightly longer than the blade me~ber 16d.
, .,.~ " . . ...
, .. .. . . . .
' 6 !~ 5 Each of the blade members 16 is curved in its transverse direction. The direction of this curvature is represented by the double arrow T in Figure 2.
The cur~ed surface portions 28 of the blade members 16c and 16d are arranged such that when the dilator 12 is closed (shown in Figures 1 and 3), the curved surface portions 28 define a rounded dome-like surface as can be seen in Figures 1 and 3. The curved surface portio~s 28 of the blade mem~ers 16c and 16d extend beyond the rounded edges 26 of the blade members 16a and 16b to form the rounded dome~ e surface hereinabove described.
The blade members 16 are arranged such that when the dilator 12 is closed, the forward par~s 23 of the rear portions 22 define a substantially dome-like shaped form with the shank-like portions 24 extended therefrom in a substantially tubular form, as is best seen in Figure l.
The ~lade members 16 are arranged such that even when the dilator 12 is closed, there are still gaps 32 between adjacent b}ade members 16.
The notch 30 in the blade member 16d ensures that a gap 32 also exists between the edges of the curved surface portions 28 of the blade members 16c and 16d.
The blade members 16 of the dilator 12 are pivotally retained ,as will be now described.
Figure 4 shows the arr~ ment which enables pivotal movement of the blade m ..~ers 16. However, in Figure 4 only the blade member 16a has been shown for clarity ~f representation.
The blade members 16 are pivotally supported by a support WO92/21279 ~ 6 9 ~ - - 6 - pcr/Au92/oo26 member 34 having a first (forward) end 36 and a second (rear) end 38. The support member 34 is of substantially shcrt tubular form. The support member 34 defines a passage 39 therethrough, and an opening 39a at the rear of the specu~um lO. The blade members 16 extend outwardly from the support member 34 in side by side, or adjacent, manner when the dilator 12 is closed.
The support member 34 is provided with lug-like members 40 at-the first end 36. The lug-like me~bers 40 are spaced around-the edge of the support membsr 34 at the first end 3~. .
The lug-like members 40 have curved su ff aces 42 suc~ that the lug-like members 40 are of an approximately semi-ellipsoidal shape~ The curved surfaces 42 slope away from the cen~ral region of the lug-like members 40 to rounded apexes 43 on either side in the circumferential direction of the support member 34.
The rear portion 22 of each blade member 16 is pro~ided with a recess 44 on its inside face 46 adjacent respective side edges 47 at its proximal part 18.
The lug-like members 40 and recesses 44 are contoured such that the recesses 44 of each blade member l6 mate with respective lug-like members 40. This is shown in Figure 4. Each r,ecess 44 of each blade member 16 mates, or sits, on half a lug-like member 40. In this way, adjacent blade members 16 sit on respective halves of a lug-like member 40 such that ~he blade members 16 are pivotally supported by ~he support member 34.
- The side edges 47 of ~ach rear portion 22 (of each blade WO9~t21~79 ~ 6 9 5 PCT/AU9 /00261 members 16) taper slightly toward the termination of the :
rear portion 22 of each blade member 16. These tapered edges are shown by reference numeral 48 in Figures 4 and 5.
A collar 50 is provided around the blade members 16 over their rear portions 22. The collar 50 surrounds the rear portions 22 between the recesses 44 and the termina~ions of th~ rear portions 22. Conne~ting ribs 52 ~best seen in - Figure 5) extend from the support member 34 to the collar 50. The connectin~ ribs 52 are positioned between respective adjacent blade members 16. The taperèd`edges 48 form spa~es between the side edges 4i of adjacent blade memb2rs 16 where the connecting ribs 52 may be provided.
The connecting ri~s 52 connect the support member 34 and the collar 50.
In this way, the blade members 16 are pivotally supported on the support member 34, around the periphery thereof, by the collar 50, with the blade members 16 extending outwardly therefrom.
The lug-like members 40 and the matching contoured recesses 44 of the blade members 16 permit pivotal movement of the blade members 16. Thus, the lug~ e members 40 act as pivotal fulcrums. The connecting ribs 52 connect the support member 34 and the collar 50 to ensure that the blade ~embers 16 are retained in position with respec~ to the support member 34.
The support member 34 is also provided with a lug 54 at the second end 38. The lug 54 serves as a thumb grip and proje~ts rearwardly of the support member 34. A pair of incisions ~6 extend f~om the lug ~4 in the support member WO92/~1279 PCT/~U92/00261 6 .~ 5 - 8 -34 a short distance. This permits the lug 54 to be depressed slightly and then return to its position shown in Figure 5 when released.
A pawl member ~8 is provided just forwardly of the lug 54, between the incisions 56.
A handle 50 is provided on the collar 50. The handle 60 extends radially from the collar 50~
The rear portions 22 of the blade members 16 each terminate in a substcntially wedge shaped por~lon 62.
The substan~ially wedge shaped portions 62 extend in the transverse direction T of the blade members 16.
The substantially wedge shaped portions 62 each taper in the sa~e direction to a respective tip 64. In Figure 5, this direction is shown as a counter-clockwise directio~.
Each of the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 has a base 66 at an edge of the termination of the rear portion 22 of a blade member 16. The bases 66 are angled.
The substantially wedge shaped portions 62 taper to the tips 64 spaced from the bases 66. The substantially wedge shaped partions 62 extend in the transverse direction T of the blade members 16 to substantially half way around the terminating edge of the rear portions 22 of the blade members 16 where they terminate in the tips 64.
A cut-away portion 68 is provided in each of the blade members 16 adjacent the tip 64 such that the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 form the extremities of the rear poxtions 22 of the blade members 16 at the proximal par~s 1~ .
The spening mechanism 14 csmprises a movable collar 70.
~ ,t3~
WO92~2127s PCT/~U92/00261 The movable collar 70 is provided around the support member 34, near its second end 38.
The support member 34 is provided with a flange 72 (shown in Figure 3) at its second end 38 which retains the movable collar 70 in place on ~he support member 34. The movable - collar 70 has an inside ~front) face 74 ~visible in Figures 5 and 6) which is provided with a cam like arrangement 76.
The inside face 74 is the one that faces the substantially wedge shap~d portions 62 of the blade mem~ers 16. This can be seen in Figures 5 and 6.
The cam~ e arrangement 76 comprises arcuate portions 78a, 78b, 78c and 78d (collec~ively referred to as "arcuate portions 78") which are raised above a lower su~face 80.
The arcuate portions 78 curve inwardly in the direction from near the outer side 82 toward near the inner side 84 of the movable collar 70. The directio~ of this inward curving of the arcuatP portions 78 is clockwise a seen in Figure 6.
Each arcuate portion 78 forms a tip 86 at its forward end 88 with a rear surface 90 of an adjacent arcuate portion 78. The rear surface 90 of each arcuate portion 78 is angled such that it forms an angled recess 92 with the remainder of the arcuate portion 78.
The arcuate portions 78 are arranged such that the arcuate portions 78a and 78b have the same curvature. The arcuate portion 78c has a greater curvature than the arcuate portions 78a and 78b such that the tip 86 of the arcuate portion 78 is closer to the inner side 84 of the movable - collar 70 than the tips 86 of the arcuate portions 78a and WO92/21279 ~ 6 ~ ~ - 1 o - PCT/AU92/002Sl 78b. The arcuate portion 78d, in turn, has a greater curvature than the arcuate portion 78c (and the arcuate portions 78a and 78b) such that the tip 86 of the arcuate portion 78d is closer to the inner side 84 of the movable S collar 70 than the tip 86 of the arcuate portion 78c and the tips 86 of the arcuate portions 78a and 78b).
The arcuate portions 78a, 78b, 78c and 78d operatively cooperate with blade members 16a, 16b, 16c and 16d, respectively, to open the dilator 12. This will be later described. :
The movable collar 70 is also provided with a ratchet arrangement 94 and a thumb operable handle 96. The ratchet arrangement 94 is provided on the inner side 84 of the movable collar 70 and the handle 96 projects from the outer side 82 of the movable collar 70. The handle 96 is arranged such that it projects radially outwardly from the movable collar 70 in the region of the rear part of the arcuate portion 78b, i.e. near its rear surface 90.
The ratchet arrangement 94 is positioned such that, viewed from the inside face 74 of the movable collar 70, it is positioned beneath the handle 96, extending a short distance beyond the handle 96 on the right and extending a greater distance on the left to approximately half the leng~h of the arcuate portion 78c.
In the position of the msvable collar 70 shown in Figure 1, i.e. when the dilator 12 is closed, the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 are positioned such that the (angled) bases 66 of the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 are close to, or in abu~ment with, respective rear surfaces 9O
WO~2/21279 ~i 1 ~ 6 ~ ~ PCT/AUg2/00261 that form the angled recesses 92. In this position, the (anglefi) bases 66 are engaged in the angled recesses 92, thereby preventing any pivotal movement of the blade - members 16. This position of the substantially wedge shaped poxtions 62 is exemplified in broken lines by arrow A in Figure 6 which shows th position of the substantially wedge shaped portion 62 of the blade members 16~.
When the movable collar 70 is moved to the position shown in Figure 2 (by moving the handle 96 in the direction shown 1~ by arrow B in Figure l), the relative positioning of the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 of the blade members 16 is exemplified by arrow C in Figure 6. Figure 6 shows the position of the substantially wedge shaped portion 62 of the blade member l6b. This will be further herein lS described.
The speculum lO further comprises a locking mechanism 98.
The locki~g mechanism 98 comprises the pawl 58 and ratchet arrangement 94.
When the pawl 58 engages with the ratchet arrangement 94, the movable collar 70 is locked against movement in the direction ~pposite to the arrow B.
The pawl 58 is angled such that the ratchet arrangement 94 allows the movable collar 70 to be readily rotated in the direction shown by arrow B in Figure 1, (to open the dilator l2) but prevents movement in the reverse direction (to close the dilator 12) unless the pawl 58 is disengaged from the ratchet arrangement g4. A pin 99 is provided to limit the travel of the movable collar 70 in the direction B. The pin 99 extends form the base of the handle 60. The WO92/21279 ~il ~ ~ 3 S 12 PCT/AU92/00261 handle 96 abuts with the pin 99 to thereby limit travel of the movable collar 70.
Preferably, the speculum 10 is made of light-weight material, e.g. plas~ics.
Preferably, the speculum 10 is made of transparent material, e.gP clear plastics.
Figures 9 and 10 show the dilator 12' of a second embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention. The same reference numerals are used in relation to the speculum of the second embodiment as are used for the speculum lO of the fir~t embodiment to denote corresponding parts. However, in referring to the speculum of the second embodiment a superscript (') follows the numbers to enable the embodiments to be readily distinguished.
The speculum of the second embodiment is s~bstantially the same as the speculum 10 o~ the first embodiment except for the dilator 12'. Accordingly, only the dilator 12' of the speculum of the second embodiment is shown in Figures 9 and 10, and the following description will be limited to the features of difference of the dilator 12'. However, it is to be understood that the remainder of the speculum of the second embodiment is substantially the same as the speculum 10 of the, first embodiment hereinbefore described.
The dilator 12' comprises (dilator) blade members 16a', 16b', 16c' and 16d', collectively referred to as "blade members 15"'.
The blade members 16' have a structure different from that of the blade members 16 of the speculum 10.
WO92J21279 ~ Pcr/AU92/0026 The forward part 23' of the rear portion 22' of each blade member 16' has a gentler taper from which a shank-like portion 24' extends. The remainder of the rear portion 22' of each blade member 16' is the same as that of the rear portions 22 of ~he blade members 16 of the speculum 10.
The shank-like portions 24' of the blade members 15' extend in a (longitudinally) tapering manner from respective forward portions 23' to a narrower tip 27' at the dis~al par~s 20' of the blade members 16'. The narrower tip 27' of each blad~ member 16' itself curves inwardly (in a transverse direction).
The blade mem~ers 16' are of tne same size and leng~h.
The blade members 16' are arranged such that when the dilator 12' is closed (shown in Fisure 9) the dilator 12' is substantially in the space of a cone. The base of this cone is comprised of the forward par~s ~3' of the rear portions 22' of the bladP members 16l and the apex is formed by the tips 27' of the blade members 16' at the distal ends 20'. This apex is xounded since the narrower tips 27' of the blade members 16' at their distal ends 20' curve inwardly.
~ach of the blade members 16' is also curved in the transverse direction T.
In this way, the blade members 16l define the cone shape referred to above.
The blade members 16' are positioned such that even when the dilator 12' is in its closed position (as shown in Figure 1) ther~ is still a gap 32' between adjacent blade members 16'.
W092/21279 ~ 9 ~ - 14 - PCT/AUg2/00261 Figures 11 and 12 show the dilator 121' and the movable collar 70", respectively, of a third embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention.
The same reference numerals are used in relation to the speculum of the third embodiment as are used for the speculum 10 of the firs~ embodiment to den0t~ corresponding parts. However, in referring to the speculum o~ the third embodiment a double superscript (") follows the num~ers to enable the embodiments to be readily distin~uished.
The speculum of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the speculum 10 of the first embodiment. The major differences are in the dilator 12" and the cam~ e arrangement 76" of the mova~le collar 70".
Accordingly, only the dilator 12" and the movable collar 70" of the speculum of the third embodiment are shown in Figures ll and 12, and the following description will be generally limited to the features of difference of the dilator 12" and the cam-like arrangement 76" of the movable collar 70".
However, it is to be understood that the remainder of the spéculum of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the speculum 19 of the first embodiment hereinbefore described.
The dilator 12" has only two (dilator) blade members 16a"
and 16b" (collectively referred to as "blade members 16"") and the czm-like arrangement 76" has only two arcuate portions 78a" and 78b". ~Accordingly, only two lug-like members 40" (obscured) arç provided on the support member 34" (obscured).
WO92/21279 - 1 S - ~ 1 i O Ç 9 5 PCT/AU~2/00261 The blade members 16" have a structure different from that of the bl de mem~ers 16 of the speculum 10.
The blade members 16a" and 16b" can be considered as consisting, respectively, of one of the blade members 16c and lod ( of the speculum 10) and half of each of the blade - members 16a and 16b ~of the speculum lQ).
Accordingly, the foxward parts 23" of the rear portion 22"
of each blade member 16" is substantially semi-dome in shape with the shank-like portions 24" extending therefrom. When the dilator 12" is closed, these forward parts 23" togPther define a substantially dome-like shaped form, with the shank-like portions 24" extending there~rom in a substantially tubular form.
The shank-like portions 24" of the blade members 16" extend from respective forward portions 23" to curved surface positions 28" at the distal parts 20" o the blade members 16".
The blade member 16b" has a smal~ notch (obscured) (corresponding to the notch 30 of the blade member 16d of the speculum 10) adjacent its curved surface portion 28".
The blade member 16b" is slightly longer than the blade member 16a".
Each of the blade members 16" is curved in its transverse direction T".
The curved surface portions 28" are arranged such that they define a rounded dome-like surface when the dilator 12" is closed.
The remainder of ~he blade members 16", i.e. the r~ar portions 22", is similar to the blade members 16 o~ the ~11l)~95 WO~2/21279 . PCT/AU92/00261 speculum 10, except that the rear portions 22" are approximately twice the length in the transverse direction T" as the rear portions 22 tof the speculum 10).
Since the dilator 12" of the speculum of the third embodiment has two blade members 16", the cam-like - arrangement 76" has two arcuate portions 78a" and 78b".
The arcuate portions 78a" and 78b" operatively cooperate with the blade members 16a" and 16b", respectively, to open the dila~.or 12".
-10 The arcuate portion 78~" has a greater curvature than the arcuate portion 78a", such that the tip 86" of the arcuate portion 78b" is closer to the innPr side 84" of the movable collar 70" than the tip 86" of the arcuate portion 78a".
Fi~ure 12 shows an alternative curvature for the arcuate portion 78b" in broken lines 78b"a. The arcuate portion 78b"a has ~he same curvature as the arcuate portion 78a".
Figures 13 and 14 show the dilator 12! and the movable collar 70!, respectively, of a fourth embodiment of a speculum in accordance with the present invention.
The same reference numerals are used in relation to the specu}um of the fourth embodimcnt as are used for the speculum 10 of the first embodiment to denote corxesponding parts. However, in referring to the speculum of the fourth embodimen,t an exclamation mark (!) follows the numbers to enable the embodiments to be readily distinguished.
The speculum of the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as the speculum 10 of the first embodiment. The major differences are in the dilator 12! and the cam-like arrangement 76! of the movable collar 70!. Accordin~ly, O92/21279 ~ 5 PCT/AU92/00261 only the dilator 12! and the movable collar 70 ! of the speculum of the fourth embodiment are shown in Figures 13 and 14, and the following description will be generally limited to the features of difference of the dilator 12!
S ~nd the cam arrangement 76! of tne movable collar 70!.
However, it is to be understood that the remainder of the speculum of ~he fourth embodiment is substan~ially the same as the speculum 10 of the first embodiment hereinbefore described.
The dilator 12! has three (dilator) blade members 16a!, 16b! and 16c! (collectively referred to as "blade members 16!~, and the cam arrangement 76! has three arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c! (Accordingly, only two luy-like members 40! (obscured) are provided on the support member 34! (obscured).
The blade members 16! have a structure different from that of the blade members 16 of the speculum 10.
Each rear portion 22! of the blade members 16! has a forward part 23! which is substantially triangular (though of a size different from the forward part 23 of the speculum 10) with the shank-like portions 24! ex~ending therefrom. When the dilator 12! is closed, these forward parts 23! together define a substantially dome-like shaped ~orm, w~-t,h the shank-like portions 24! extending therefrom in a substantially t~bular form.
The shank-like portions 24! of the blade members 16! extend from respective forward parts 23! to curved surface, portions 2B! at the distal parts 20! of the blade members 16! One or more of the ~l~de members 16a!, 16b! and 16c!
WO92~21279 ~ 18 - PCT/AU92/~0~61 may be pro~ided with a small notch 30! adjacen~ its curved surface portion 28!
The blade members 16a!, 16b! and 16c! are the same.
Each blade member 16! is curved in its transverse direction T!
- The curved surface portions 28! define a rounded dome-like surface when the dilator 12! is closed.
The remainder Qf the blade members 16!, i.e. the rear portions 22!, is similar to the blade members 16 of the~
lQ speculum 10, except that the rear portions 22'.are of a larger size than the rear portions 22 (of the speculum 10) but smaller than the rear portions 22" (of the speculu~ of the third embodiment).
Since the dilator 12! of the speculum of the fourth embodiment has three blade members 16!, the cam arrangement 76! has three arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c!
The arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c! operatively cooperate with the blade members 16a!, 16b! and 16c!, respectively, to open the dilator 12!
The arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c! ha~e the same c~rvature. In this way, the tips 86! of the arcuate portions 78a!, 78b! and 78c! are equally spaced from the inner side 84! of the movable collar 70!
ThP manne~ of use and operation of the speculum of the present invention will now be described, with particular reference to the speculum 10 of the first embodiment. The following description will be with reference to use of the speculum 10 as a vaginal speculum.
The speculum 10 may, for example, be used by a user, e.g.
WO92/21279 ~ 6 3 ~ PCT/AU92/0D261 medical practitioner, as a vaginal speculum in connection with the examination of, or carrying out a medical procedure on, a female patient. Such examination, for example, may be in relation to the cervix of the patient.
The speculum 10 is used to dilate the vagina of the - patient.
The medical practitioner holds the speculum 10 by gripping the handle 60 in his/her left hand with the blade member ;16c upper~ost and the handle-96 in the position shown in Figure-lO In this position, the dilator 12 is closed and the bases 66 of the substantially wedge shaped portions 62 ~of the blade members 16) are in abutment with the surfaces 90 to ensure that the dilator 12 remains closed. This is exemplified in Figure 6 by the arrow A which shows the position of the substantially wedge shaped portion 62 of the blade member 16b relative to the arcuate portion 78b.
The medical practitioner then inserts the end of the dilator 12 defined by the distal parts 20 of the blade members 16 into the opening of the vagina of the patient.
The dilator 12 is inserted into the vagina the re~uired distance. The dilator 12 is inserted in~o the patient's vagina such that the blade member 16c is uppermost, the blade member 16d lowermost, and the blade members 16a and 16b at th~ sides.
Since the wall of the patient's vagina has a natural tendency to remain collapsed, the blade members 16 are in close contact with the walls of the va~ina of the patient.
Once the dilator 12 has been inserted into the patient's vagin~ the appropriate distance, the medical practitioner O92/2l279 ~ 9S PCT~AUg2/00261 pushes on the handle 96 ~using the thumb of his/her left hand) in direction of arrow B shown in Figure 1. This causes the movable collar 70 to move, i.e. in the same direction ~, which the pawl 58 and the ratchet arrangement S 94 allow.
- As the movable collar 70 is moved in the direction shown by arrow B in Figure l, the arcuate portions 78 of the movable collar 70 bear against the rear portions 22 of the blade members 16 at the substantially wedge shaped-portions 62 and push against them. This is exemplified in Figure 6 by the arrow C which shows the position of the substantially wedge shaped portion 62 of the blade member 16b reIative to the arcuate portion 78b.
This action on the blade members 16 causes the blade members 16 to pivot by way of the recesses 44 and the lug-like members 40. The blade members 16 begin to separate and open ~i.e. the dilator 12 opens~ against the tendency of the wall of the vagina (of the patient~ to remain collapsed.
When the dilator 12 has been opened an appropria~e amount, ~he medical practitioner ceases pushing on the handle 96.
This stops the movab}e collar 70 from continuing to move, i~e. rotate, in the direction of arrow B. Further, ~he pawl 58 and ratchet arrangement 94 prevent the movable collar 70 from moving in the opposite direction. This keeps the movable collar 70 and blade members 16 in the se_ position with the dila~or 12 open. Thus, the pawl 58 and ratchet arrangement 94 pre~Jent the wall of the vagina (of the patient3 from collapsing to close th~ dilator 12. The WO92/21279 21 ~ 6 S 5 PCT/AU92~00261 ~ilator 12 is opened until the blade members 16 dilate the patient's vagina an appropriate amount, having regard to the action, or procedure, to be performed by the medical practitioner and the comfort of the patient.
S Due to the arrangement of the substantially wedqe shaped members 62 and the curva~ures of the arcuate portions 78, the blade members 16 open by different amounts upon rotation of the movable collar 70 in the direction of arrow B.
As previously hereinbefore described, ~he~curvature of the arcuate portions 78a and 78b is the same. As the movable collar 70 is rotated in the direction of arrow B, the arcuate portion 78a and 78b act on the blade members 16a and 16b, respectively. However, since the arcuate portions 78a and 78b are of a lesser curvature, they force the blade members 16a and 16b to pivot to a lesser extend and so the blade members 16a and 16b open a relatively small amount.
Thus, the blade members 16a and 16b reach their maximum opening before the blade member~ 16c and 16d and before the 2a movable collar 70 has moved through its maxim~m travel.
The arcuate portion 78c has a greater curvature than the arcuate portions 78a and 78b and so it acts on the blade member 16c for a relatively greater proportion of the travel of the movable collar 70. This causes the blade member 16c to continue opening, even after the blade members 16a and 16b have ceased to open.
Since the arcuate portion 78d is of the greatest curvature, it continues to act on the blade member 16d thereby further opening the blade member 16d, eYen after the other blade WO92/21279 ~ 5 - 22 - PCT/AU92/00261 members 16a, 16b and 16c have ceased to open notwithstanding that the movable collar 70 is still being rota~ed in the direction of arrow B.
Thus, the blade member 16d opens the greatest amount followed ~y blade member 16c, and the blade members 16a and 16b which open the least amount.
This variable opening of ~he blade members 16 also permits the medical practitioner to obtain clear access to the cervix o the patient. In this regard, the dilator 12 is opened, as hereinbéfore described, and the curved surface 28 of the blade member 16c is used to push upwardly a forward portion of the uterus wall to provide a clearer view of the cervix. The movable collar 70 can then be rotated further in the direction of the arrow B causing only the lower blade member 16d to continue to open. This allows the medical practitioner a clear view of the cervix of the patient without obstruction thereof by the wall of the uterus of the patient. Since the blade members 16 open outwardly in all directions the patient's vagina is dilated uniformly in all directions. The blade members 16 thus provide a rigid liner to retain the patient's vagina in a dilated condition. This provides a tunnel for the medical practitioner ~or clear viewing and instrument insertion.
This en~bles the medical practitioner to insert any required instruments into the patient's vagina through the opening 39a, passage 39 and the tunnel created by the blade members 16.
The opening 39a of the speculum 10 at the second (rear) end 38 of th~ support memDçr 34 is relatively large and is of W092~2127g - 23 - w~ll V 6 9 i~ PCTJAU92/00261 sufficient size for examination and instrument insPrtion by the medical practitioner. Its size does not depend on or vary with the extent of opening of the dilator 12.
When transparent, the speculum 10 enables the medical practitioner to see the patient's vaginal wall which may ~ssist in the examination.
When the dilator 12 is to be removed from the patient's vagina, the medical practitioner depresses the handle 54 (with his~her thumb) of his/her left hand which disengages the pawl 58 from the ratchet arrangement 94. The movable collar 70 moves back to the position shown in Figure 1 under the collapsing influence of the vaginal wall of the patient on the blade members 16. The arcuat~ portions 78 thus cease to bear against the blade members 16. The blade members 16 return to their positions shown in Figure 1, i.e. the closed position of the dilator 12.
The dilator 12 may then be removed from the patient's vagina.
The gaps 32 between the blade members 16 prevent the flesh o~ the vagin~l wall being pinched between the edges of adjacent blade members 16 when the dilator 12 is in its closed position~
Once removed, the speculum 10 may be discarded.
Thus, the,speculum 10 of the present invention may be a single use speculum.
The speculum 10 has been described as being used with the left hand of the medical practitionèr.
However, the speculum in accordance with the present invention m~y also be made ~or use with the right hand.
WO92/21279 ~ 11 0 6 9 ~ - 24 - PCT/hU92/00261 Thus, a speculum for use with the right hand of a user has the directions of the curvatures of the arcuate portions 78 and the directions of taper of the subs~antially wedge shaped portions 62 (of the speculum lO) reversed. Thus, the movable collar would then be moved ~using the right - hand) in the opposite direction to arrow B to open the dilator 12. The ratchet arran~ement 94 would be slightly repositioned and the pawl would be angled in reverse to the pawl 58 of the speculum lO.
In summary, the above parts would appear as mirror images in a speculum for right hand use.
The above description in relation to right handed use applies in a corresponding manner to the specul~ms of the second, third and fourth embodiments.
The speculum of the second embodiment ~Figures 9 and lOi is used in a similar manner as hereinbefore described with reference to the speculum lO of the first embodiment.
However, the shape of the blade members l6' of the speculum of the second embodiment may be more suitable for some procedures involving examination of the uterus of a patient.
The speculum of the third embodiment (Figures ll and 12) is used in a similar manner as hereinbefore described with rçference,to the speculum lO o~ the first embodiment. The arcuate por~ion 78b", in combination with the arcuate portion 78a", enables variable opening of the blade members 16" of the dilator 12". Howe~er, as an alternative ~o the arcuate portion 78b"an arcua~e portion 78b"a may be provided. ~he arcuate portion 78b"a has the same curvature wo 92/2l27g ~ 6 3 S PCT/AU92/0026l as the arcuate portion 78a". Thus, the arcuate portions 78a" and 78b"a provide the same amoun~ of opening of the blades 16" of the dilator 12". (In this regard, it is also possible to change the curvatures of the arcuate portions 78 of the speculum 10 such that they all have the same curvature. This provides the same amount of opening of the blades 16 of the dilator 12 of the speculum 10.) The speculum o the second embodiment may be us~d as a vaginal speculum.
The spe~ulum of the four~h embodiment ~Figures 13 and 14) is used in a similar manner as hereinbefore described with reference to the speculum 10 of the first embodiment.
However, the provision of three blade members 16! makes it more suitable for use as a rectal ~or anal) speculum.
Further, a rectal speculum may also be provided ~y replacing the three blade me~ber~ 16! with three blade members similar to the blade members 16' of the speculum of the second embodiment, but slightly larger in the transverse direction T!.
Preferably, a rectal speculum has three blade members which open the same amount.
Preferably, a vaginal speculum has four blade members which have variable opening.
However~ a speculum in accordance with the present in~ention may be provided with any suitable number of blade members and with the same or variable opening depending upon its application, e.g. depending upon which body cavity it is intended to be used for.
The presen~ invention pro~vides a speculum that can be WO92/2127Q . PCT/AU92/00261 69;~ 26 -operated using one hand - insertion, dilaticn, loc~ins, unlocking and removal can all be effected with one hand.
Thus, the medical practitioner always has at least one hand free.
S ~he speculum may be made for left or right handed use.
The speculum of the present invention is compact.
The speculum of the present invention may be made from a light-weight material and which does not cause discomfort to the patient, e.g. plastics. However, other materials are also suitable e.g. metal.
Preferably, the speculum is made of plastics which allows it to be readily made as a "single use" instrument and then discarded. This is important because the transfer of many diseases may not be preventable by mere sterilization of the instruments used.
Modifications and variations such as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed within the scope of the present invention.
..... .
Claims (29)
1. A speculum characterised in that it comprises:
dilator means for insertion into a body cavity of a patient; and, opening means for opening said dilator means to dilate said body cavity, wherein said dilator means comprises at least two blade members which are pivotal and said opening means is movable to contact and bear against said blade members to cause said blade members to pivot such that said dilator means opens to dilate said body cavity.
dilator means for insertion into a body cavity of a patient; and, opening means for opening said dilator means to dilate said body cavity, wherein said dilator means comprises at least two blade members which are pivotal and said opening means is movable to contact and bear against said blade members to cause said blade members to pivot such that said dilator means opens to dilate said body cavity.
2. A speculum according to claim 1, characterised in that said opening means has arcuate portions which contact and bear against said blade members when said opening means is moved in a first direction to cause said blade members to pivot such that said dilator means opens and dilates said body cavity.
3. A speculum according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that said blade members are pivotally supported on support means and retained in place by a surrounding collar, said support means defining an opening at the rear of said speculum.
4. A speculum according to claim 3, characterised in that said surrounding collar is provided with a handle for a user to hold said speculum.
5. A speculum according to claim 3 or 4, characterised in that said support means and said surrounding collar are connected by connection means extending therebetween.
6. A speculum according to claim 5, characterised in that said blade members are provided with tapered edges at the rear portions thereof and spaces are formed between respective said tapered edges of adjacent said blade members, wherein said connection means are provided in said spaces.
7. A speculum according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterised in that said support means is provided with fulcrum means comprising curved surfaces and said blade members are provided with recesses which are contoured to, and mate, with said curved surfaces of said fulcrum means such that said blade members are pivotal.
8. A speculum according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterised in that said opening means is provided on said support means.
9. A speculum according to claim 8, characterised in that said opening means is provided between said surrounding collar and flange means of said support means.
10. A speculum according to any one of claims 3 to 9, characterised in that said blade members are pivotally supported around the periphery of said support means and extend outwardly therefrom in adjacent manner when said dilator means is closed.
11. A speculum according to any one of claims 3 to 10, characterised in that said support means comprises a shut tubular member.
12 A speculum according to any one of claims 2 to 11, characterised in that said arcuate portions curve inwardly from the direction of an outer side of said opening means toward an inner side of said opening means.
13. A speculum according to any one of claims 2 to 12, characterised in that said blade members are curved in their transverse directions and have respective substantially wedge shaped portions at their rear terminating ends and a respective said arcuate portion contacts and bears against said blade members at said substantially wedge shaped portions.
14. A speculum according to claim 13, characterised in that said substantially wedge shaped portions are provided with angled base portions which are received in angled recess base portions of respective said arcuate portions to prevent said blade members from pivoting to open said dilator means.
15. A speculum according to any one of claims 2 to 14, characterised in that said arcuate portions are of substantially the same curvature such that said blade members are able to pivot the same amount.
16. A speculum according to any one of claims 2 to 14, characterised in that at least one of said arcuate portions has a curvature different from the curvature(s) of the other said arcuate portions such that said blade member which is contaced by said at least one arcuate portion is able to pivot a different amount.
17. A speculum according to claim 16, characterised in that four said blade members are provided comprising an upper blade member, a lower blade member and two side blade members and the said arcuate portions which contact said side blade members have a first curvature, the said arcuate portion which contacts said upper blade member has a second curvature and the said arcuate portion which contacts said lower blade member has a third curvature, said third curvature being greater than said second curvature and said second curvature being greater than said first curvature such that said lower blade member is able to pivot the greatest amount, followed by said upper blade member and said side blade members are able to pivot the least amount.
18. A speculum according to claim 16, characterised in that two said blade members are provided comprising an upper blade member and a lower blade member, and the said arcuate portion which contacts said upper blade member has a first curvature and the said arcuate portion which contacts said lower blade member has a second curvature and said second curvature is greater than said first curvature such that said lower blade member is able to pivot the greater amount.
19. A speculum according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterised in that each said blade member is provided with a rear proximal part at which part said blade member is pivotal and a distal part with a shank-like portion therebetween, said distal part and said shank-like portion being narrower than said rear proximal part.
20. A speculum according to claim 19, characterised in that at least two of said blade members are provided with curved surface portions at their respective distal parts and at least one of said two blade members has a notch in the edge of said curved surface portion.
21. A speculum according to claim 20, characterised in that one of said at least two blade members is longer than the other.
22. A speculum according to claim 20 or 21, characterised in that two further said blade members are provided with rounded edges at their respective distal parts and are shorter than said at least two blade members.
23. A speculum according to claim 19, characterised in that said blade members are substantially triangular and taper to respective narrow inwardly curved tips at their distal parts.
24. A speculum according to any one of claims 19,20 or 23, characterised in that three said blade members are provided.
25. A speculum according to any one of claims 1 to 24, characterised in that locking means is provided to retain said opening means in a selected position such that said dilator means is retainable at a selected amount of opening.
26. A speculum according to claim 25, characterised in that said locking means comprises a pawl means and ratchet means, said pawl means provided on handle means extending from said support means and said ratchet means is provided on said opening means such that said opening means is readily movable to open said dilator means but said handle means must be depressed to disengage said pawl means from said rachet means to enable said dilator means to close.
27. A speculum according to any one of claims 1 to 26, characterised in that said opening means is provided with a handle to enable a user to move said opening means.
28. A speculum according to any one of claism 1 to 27, characterised in that stop means is provided to limit the travel of said opening means in the direction to open said dilator means.
29. A speculum according to any one of claims 1 to 28, characterised in that said opening means comprises a collar.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUPK6539 | 1991-06-06 | ||
| AUPK653991 | 1991-06-06 | ||
| AUPL0637 | 1992-02-03 | ||
| AUPL063792 | 1992-02-03 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2110695A1 true CA2110695A1 (en) | 1992-12-07 |
Family
ID=25644053
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002110695A Abandoned CA2110695A1 (en) | 1991-06-06 | 1992-06-05 | Speculum |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5509893A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0591253A4 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2110695A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1992021279A1 (en) |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US167666A (en) * | 1875-09-14 | Improvement in speculums | ||
| DE11463C (en) * | Dr. med. L, REISMANN in Haspe, Westfalen | Auxiliary ratchet to be inserted into the vaginal mirror | ||
| US672239A (en) * | 1900-05-21 | 1901-04-16 | George P Pilling & Son | Vaginal speculum. |
| FR510677A (en) * | 1919-09-26 | 1920-12-09 | Drossos Pamboukis | Electro-optical rectoscope |
| US1412975A (en) * | 1920-12-23 | 1922-04-18 | Frederick W Stanton | Syringe |
| FR542744A (en) * | 1921-10-26 | 1922-08-21 | Diaphragm speculum, with multiple branches and double opening movement | |
| GB330629A (en) * | 1929-03-14 | 1930-06-16 | Edward Baron | Improvements in and connected with vaginal specula and like instruments |
| US2083573A (en) * | 1936-04-18 | 1937-06-15 | Clifford V Morgan | Speculum |
| US4130113A (en) * | 1976-12-15 | 1978-12-19 | Richards Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Retractor |
| DE2708071C2 (en) * | 1977-02-22 | 1985-03-07 | Effner & Spreine Inhaber Ursula Effner, 1000 Berlin | Anal speculum |
| FR2490478A1 (en) * | 1980-09-24 | 1982-03-26 | Chouraqui Albert | Speculum with built-in illumination - has light source mounted on inside surface of blade powered by battery lamp or laser |
-
1992
- 1992-06-05 CA CA002110695A patent/CA2110695A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1992-06-05 US US08/162,030 patent/US5509893A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1992-06-05 WO PCT/AU1992/000261 patent/WO1992021279A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1992-06-05 EP EP92911209A patent/EP0591253A4/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO1992021279A1 (en) | 1992-12-10 |
| US5509893A (en) | 1996-04-23 |
| EP0591253A1 (en) | 1994-04-13 |
| EP0591253A4 (en) | 1995-07-05 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |