A sterile, self-contained, disposable apparatus used for heating and
applying solution to the distal end of endoscopes as well as an
endoscopic lens protector. The heating mechanism is chemical, electrical
or a combination of both. Further the apparatus serves as a self sealing
container for the storage and application of anti-fog solution. By
placing the apparatus over the distal scope prior to surgery, the scope
is protected from damage from other instruments or trays. At the same
time the distal lens is submerged in the warm anti-fog solution and it is
uniformly and completely coated. Heat is transferred to the instrument
from the solution in one example to act as an important and additional
measure to prevent fogging of the lens. By heating the solution and the
instrument, the drastic temperature difference between the interior of
the body (98.6) and the instrument is eliminated. This inhibits the
condensation of moisture, which always occurs upon inserting the cool
scope inside the warm body. The apparatus combines the use of an anti-fog
solution as well, which helps prevent fogging during the procedure when
smoke and heat is generated within the body during the procedure. Lastly,
the apparatus is designed to be used as a holder of the scope while
protecting it from impact with a shock absorbent outer shell prior to,
during, and after the medical procedure. A new method for defogging
endoscopes by which a sterile protective device is combined with a
defogging mechanism and placed over the distal lens of endoscopes prior
to the medical procedure, used intermittently during the procedure, then
placed over the lens at the end of the procedure. The apparatus is not
removed until scope reaches the cleaning facility. This apparatus is
ideal for sterile operations where the instrument is used intermittently
and repeatedly.