Design of multiple-degree-of-freedom endoscope that overcomes spatial disorientation problems in trans-gastric NOTES

Natural orifice transluminal endoscopie surgery (NOTES) is currently receiving attention because of the advantages it offers in terms of minimal bleeding and fast postoperative recovery. However, the NOTES surgery platform involves critical spatial disorientation difficulties, including in-line vision problems and surgical tools leaving the field of view of the endoscope. In this paper, we propose a conceptual endoscope design that overcomes these spatial disorientation problems. The functional requirements are described, and the design constraints and requirements for the detailed design of a new endoscope are identified. A new endoscope system is developed that overcomes the spatial disorientation problems associated with trans-gastric NOTES.