CPC A61B 8/445 (2013.01) [A61B 8/4455 (2013.01)] | 22 Claims |
1. An imaging system to image tissue of a patient, comprising:
an imaging probe comprising a housing, the imaging probe configured to be inserted into the patient;
a stiff sheath, the stiff sheath comprising an internal channel sized to receive the imaging probe, a proximal end, and a closed distal end, wherein the closed distal end is rounded for advancement into the patient;
a proximal seal at the proximal end of the stiff sheath to decrease leakage of fluid from an interior of the stiff sheath;
a fluid source coupled to an interior chamber of the stiff sheath; and
an evacuation channel in fluid communication with the interior chamber of the stiff sheath;
wherein the imaging probe is removable from the stiff sheath;
wherein the housing of the imaging probe is configured to be movable in a reciprocating motion relative to the proximal seal; and
wherein the stiff sheath and the housing of the imaging probe are sized and arranged to pump fluid with the reciprocating motion of the imaging probe in the stiff sheath.
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