US20150320392A1

US20150320392A1 - Sleeve for a transesophageal echocardiography probe

Info

Publication number: US20150320392A1
Application number: US14/704,743
Authority: US
Inventors: Emil D. Missov; Andrew David Bicek; John Robert Ballard; Claire Elizabeth Leitgen; Jacie Jo Elaine Groeschel; Andrew Richard Hohs; Yicong Lai
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: University of Minnesota
Priority date: 2014-05-07
Filing date: 2015-05-05
Publication date: 2015-11-12
Also published as: US20150320298A1; US10022106B2

Abstract

A device includes a switch and a housing. The switch is configured for manipulation by a user. The housing has an interior surface configured to receive an external feature of a handheld controller for a transesophageal ultrasound system. The housing has a plurality of switch positions. The switch is coupled to the housing at one position of the plurality of switch positions.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This patent application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/989,930, filed on May 7, 2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

A transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) probe is used for diagnostic imaging of the heart and for real-time, intra-operative monitoring of cardiovascular surgery as well as for intra-procedural guidance of minimally invasive and percutaneous cardiovascular interventions. For example, a TEE probe can facilitate interventional and surgical procedures such as trans-aortic valve replacement. During these procedures, the probe is manually manipulated by a physician to provide a live image of the anatomy. After the image is obtained, the physician can operate the ultrasound machine to perform a number of operations or function using the live image. For example, the physician may opt to freeze an image, acquire an image, or perform color Doppler imaging. These techniques can require the operator to remove their hands from the probe to press buttons on the console, use a foot pedal while holding the TEE probe, or alternatively rely on a second operator to interact with the echocardiographic cart. Removal of the hands or balancing on one leg often leads to instability of the probe. As a consequence, the image of interest can be lost prior to acquisition and digital storage. Relying on a second operator (usually a cardiac sonographer) is expensive, impractical (confined space in operating and procedural rooms), and cumbersome (requiring constant dialogue to convey orders for image acquisition).
In addition to a TEE probe, other devices are also routinely manipulated by a physician. For example, a physician may also use an endoscopic probe (both endoscopic ultrasound and other endoscopic probe in a gastroenterology procedure). These probes are typically expensive and often inadequate for the needs of a physician and the needs of a patient. For example, the physician may have difficulty in precisely manipulating a probe with hands contaminated by a liquid or gel. Probes are discussed in the following documents: Connectorized Probe for Transesophageal Echocardiology, U.S. Pat. No. 8,070,685; Hand Controlled Scanning Device U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,072; Probe for Transesophageal Echocardiology with Ergonomic Controls, US2008/021439; Apparatus and Method for Holding a Transesophageal Echocardiology Probe, US2006/0241476.

Overview

The present subject matter includes an apparatus and method to ensure better griping of a sensitive probe. One example includes embedded buttons or a user interface on the probe handle to allow for improved ergonomic control and remote functionality of systems such as a diagnostic ultrasound machine during lengthy procedures. An example allows the operator to enjoy full functionality without removing their hands from the device in order to acquire an image.
An example includes a TEE controller in the form of a sleeve with embedded buttons. The sleeve device is configured to fit over a TEE probe to enable better operation of the probe with associated embedded buttons to allow for control of the diagnostic ultrasound imaging system without the need of additional foot pedals and/or presence of a second operator (cardiac sonographer).
This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

FIG. 1 illustrates a view of a system according to one example.

FIG. 2 illustrates a view of an apparatus according to one example.

FIG. 3 illustrates a view of an apparatus according to one example.

FIG. 4 illustrates a view of an apparatus according to one example.

FIG. 5 illustrates a view of an apparatus according to one example.

FIG. 6 illustrates a view of an electrical schematic according to one example.

FIG. 7 illustrates a view a block diagram for a method according to one example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a view of system 100 according to one example. System 100 includes probe 18A coupled to gastroscope 22A and terminating at transducer 24. Probe 18A is also coupled to electric connector 14 by electric cord 16A. Connector 14 is configured to electrically engage with corresponding connector 12 of console 10. In the example shown, console 10 includes wireless transceiver 8. Wireless transceiver 8 can be configured to communicate using, for example, radio frequency communication, between console 10 and other devices. In one example, probe 18A includes a corresponding wireless transceiver configured to communicate with wireless transceiver 8. Probe 18A includes user-operable control 20A.
System 100 is sometimes configured as a transesophagel ultrasound system. A transesophagel ultrasound system can include transesophageal echocardiography and endoscopic ultrasound. System 100 can be configured for monitoring and for therapy of the heart and, as such, it can be referred to as a TEE system.
Probe 18A can also be referred to as a controller and can be fitted with a number of user operable controls. In the example shown, user-operable control 20A allows the user to physically manipulate transducer 24. The user-operable controls can also provide functionality that allows a user to capture a particular anatomical image or deliver ultrasonic therapy to a targeted tissue site.
FIG. 2 illustrates a view of apparatus 200A according to one example. Apparatus 200A, sometimes called a sleeve, is configured to engage a user-operable device, such as probe 18A of FIG. 1. Apparatus 200A includes shell portion 202B and shell portion 202C, collectively referred to here as shell 202A, and shown generally in relative alignment. Shell 202A includes aperture 210A and aperture 210B which provides clearance to allow a user to manipulate a control of the user-operable device. For example, aperture 210A allows access to user-operable control 20A.
In the example illustrated, apparatus 200A includes sleeve controls 230A. Sleeve controls 230A includes cover plate 218 and back plate 214 and includes three switches 220 aligned with three transducers 216 arranged in a linear array.
Any number of switches 220 and transducers 216 can be provided, and in the example shown, the three components illustrated here can be associated with device functions known as acquire, freeze, and color.
A switch 220 can include an electrical switch. A transducer 216 can include an optical lighter emitter (such as an LED), an audible emitter (such as a speaker element), or a haptic transducer (such as a piezoelectric element).
As indicated by dashed line 190, sleeve controls 230A are affixed to shell 202A at track 212C of shell portion 202C. In this example, track 212C is a linear rail structure affixed to shell portion 202C. Sleeve controls 230A can be positioned at any location along the length of track 212C. Track 212C can include a flat or shaped linear member of a polymer or a metal or can include an aperture, any of which is configured to engage with a corresponding element of sleeve controls 230A. In addition, shell portion 202B includes segments noted as track 212B and as track 212A, here visible along an interior surface. Sleeve controls 230A can be affixed at a user-specified location along track 212A, track 212B, or track 212C.
FIG. 3 illustrates a view of system 200B according to one example, and in this view, portions of the TEE system are visible, including user-operable control 20B, electric cord 16B, and gastroscope 22B. Shell 202A encircles the probe and in this view, the individual shell portions are coupled together. In addition, sleeve controls 230B, including three user operable switches, are affixed on a portion of shell 202A.
Sleeve controls 230B are shown as a modular assembly and includes antenna 237 configured for wireless communication. Sleeve controls 230B are electrically coupled to electric connector 240A and electrically connected to interface 250. Electric connector 240A includes multiple conductors and is configured to carry electric power, data, or a control signal. Electrical connections in this example can provide power, data, or signals between sleeve controls 230B, interface 250, and a remote device (such as console 10 in FIG. 1).
In other examples, a wireless signal can be communicated between any of interface 250, a remote device, and sleeve controls 230B. A wireless link can provide a communication channel coupled to the user-selectable buttons of sleeve control 230B. The wireless link, here shown as a radio antenna, can include a Bluetooth radio. In one example, the wireless link includes an infrared communication channel. In one example, sleeve control 230B is coupled by a wired connection to an interface. Interface 250 allows communicating with a remote device or remote system using a proprietary protocol and enables a variety of user-selectable functions. In one example, the sleeve controls 230B are coupled to interface 250 that terminate in an electrical connector. The connector enables plug-and-play operability with various manufacturers. In one example, the connector allows the present subject matter to communicate with a foot-operable pedal switch or a foot-operable device.
FIG. 4 illustrates a view of apparatus 200C according to one example. In the figure, apparatus 200C includes shell portion 202D and shell portion 202E. Alignment pins at the edges of shell portion 202E are configured to engage corresponding holes in the edges of shell portion 202D. Aperture 210C and aperture 210B are shown in both shell portion 202E and shell portion 202D. User-operable control 20C of probe 18B is accessible via aperture 210C and user- operable controls 240A and 240B are accessible via aperture 210B of shell portion 202D. Probe 18B is coupled to electric cord 16C and coupled to gastroscope 22C.
In the example shown in FIG. 4, sleeve controls 230C, 230D, and 230E are affixed to shell portion 202D at a position near an end coupled to gastroscope 22C. In one example, sleeve controls 230C, 230D, and 230E are electrically coupled to a circuit embedded in a wall segment of shell portion 202D. Sleeve controls 230C, 230D, and 230E are illustrated with tactile labels encoding buttons 1, 2, and 3. In addition, sleeve controls 230C, 230D and 230E can be repositioned at other locations, such as the locations denoted in the figure as ports 235A, 235B, and 235C. The example shown includes the controls in a linear arrangement, however, other control configurations are also contemplated.
FIG. 5 illustrates a view of apparatus 500 according to one example. Apparatus 500 is configured in the form of a closed ring, however, other examples are also contemplated, including a partial ring. Apparatus 500 is sized and configured to encircle a portion of a probe, such as probe 18A. Apparatus 500 includes sleeve controls 535A, 535B, and 535C distributed on an exterior surface. Apparatus 500 has a width dimension, here denoted as dimension D, which allows unimpaired access to user-operable controls of probe 18A. Apparatus 500 can include an elastic portion that exerts a compressive force on probe 18A, or a friction-fit, or an adjustable clamp feature to securely maintain a fixed position on probe 18A. In the example shown, portions of an exterior surface of apparatus 500 are textured as shown at portion 510. Textured portion 510 can include raised or recessed features to provide a low-slip or no-slip grip. In one example, the textured portion includes a silicone-based or rubber-based material.
Any or each of the sleeve controls 535A, 535B, and 535C can include an electric switch or other control. The functionality ascribed to a user-operable control, such as control 535A can allow a user to capture a particular image, for example.
FIG. 6 illustrates a view of electrical schematic 600 according to one example. The illustrated schematic 600 represents an electrical circuit including switches corresponding to sleeve control 535A, sleeve control 230E, sleeve control 230B, or sleeve control 230A. In the example illustrated, switches S1, S2, and S3 are arranged in an array and are configured to control functions such as ‘freeze,’ ‘acquire,’ and ‘color Doppler.’ The example functions noted here are associated with a typical TEE probe however, other functions or more functions are also contemplated. Connector 240B, here denoted also as U1, includes a serial port connector in one example. Light emitting diodes X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, and X6 are configured to illuminate switches, buttons, or legends in a darkened operating room. In one example, the circuit includes a transducer to provide feedback and assist with locating and identifying switches or buttons in a dark, noisy, and busy operating room environment. A transducer can include a light (such as an LED), an audible device (such as a speaker), a haptic device (such as a piezoelectric element), or other device configured to provide a human-perceivable signal.
FIG. 7 illustrates a view a block diagram for method 700 according to one example. At 710, method 700 includes coupling a switch to a housing. In an example illustrated in FIG. 4, sleeve control 230E (includes a switch) that is coupled to shell portion 202D (housing). At 720, method 700 includes coupling a feedback transducer. In an example illustrated in conjunction with electrical schematic 600 of FIG. 6, light emitting diode X2 provides feedback corresponding to actuation of switch S1. At 730, method 700 includes providing an electrical connection. Examples of an electrical connection are shown at connector 240B (FIG. 6) and 240A (FIG. 3).

Various Notes & Examples

In one example of the present subject matter, a sleeve (or shell) can be coupled to a TEE probe and is configured to provide remote functionality of a remote device. The remote device can include, for example, an ultrasound machine.
The sleeve, in one example, can include a molded device having an inner (interior) surface configured to closely fit a probe or other hand held device and having an outer (external) surface that incorporates an ergonomic design. The outer surface has shaped features to ergonomically fit into the user's hand. The inner surface can be configured to closely conform to the TEE probe.
In one example, the sleeve can include a stopper and barbell shape on the outer surface of the sleeve in order to prevent slipping from the user's hand.
The sleeve can have an outer surface that is textured to increase grip and improve handling. In one example, the textured surface can be molded during sleeve manufacturing. In one example, the textured surface can be a sprayed texture or an adhesively bonded gripping surface.
The sleeve outer surface can include a material selected to increase grip and comfort in the hand. One example of a suitable material is silicone. Silicone can provide tackiness, softness in hand, and is easily molded. Another example of a suitable material is a type of rubber or fabric that is selected to increase comfort, grip, and durability.
In one example, the sleeve includes switches or buttons for controlling functionality of a remote device or a remote system. An example of a remote system can include an ultrasound system. The remote device or system can be connected by a wired connection or by a wireless connection. The functionality can include triggering a device function such as acquire, freeze, color or can include a custom or user-selectable function.
The buttons may be arranged on the outer surface or the inner surface of the sleeve, or embedded within the material of the sleeve. Additionally, the buttons may be arranged in a linear or non-linear pattern on the sleeve. The arrangement of the plurality of buttons may be repositionable to allow a user to tailor the present subject matter for use with a left hand or use with a right hand. A channel or track on the inner surface or on the external surface of the sleeve can allow a button to be repositionable within the channel. In one example, an external or elastic band on the inner or outer surface of the sleeve allows the buttons to be repositioned. The repositionable buttons, in one example, can be actuated by finger pressure exerted on the external surface of the sleeve. Additionally, the buttons may be configured to allow a user to easily discern their location or function. For example, the buttons may be arranged for ease of locating them in a dark, busy, or noisy environment such as that they incorporate any one or multiple of the following: sound, tactile, illumination, and/or glow in the dark material to provide feedback to the user. Electrical conductors coupled to a button (or a switch) can be routed in a space underneath the sleeve and atop the probe, routed in a channel on an inner surface of the sleeve, or routed within a cavity embedded in a thickness of the sleeve.
A location of a repositionable button or switch can be selected by a user. In one example, a switch is electrically connected by a conductive wire with a remote device. The wire can be configured with sufficient flexibility and length to allow a user to reposition the switch from a first location (such as shown at port 235A) to a second location (such as shown at port 235C). This allows a user to reconfigure the switches or buttons on a sleeve in order to achieve a customized arrangement of user-operable controls. In one example, a switch or button is carried on a track and a user can reposition a switch or button at a user-selected track location. In one example, repositioning a switch or button entails using a hand-operated tool. In one example, repositioning a switch or button from one location to another can be accomplished without using a tool.
An example of the present subject matter provides that a customized set of controls are located near the TEE probe surface. The controls can be positioned within reach of the operator's fingers and operable without repositioning the hand. The controls are configured to interface with an ultrasound machine. This allows for a low-cost solution to add functionality of remote control of the ultrasound imaging console without redesigning the probe itself.
In one example, the present subject matter provides an alternative to a foot pedal control. One example provides plug and play functionality with multiple manufactures. This can include serial and USB communication between an example of the present subject matter and the ultrasound machine.
Communication may be either wired or wireless to interface with the ultrasound machine. An example of a wireless technology is Bluetooth but may be any of a number of wireless standards.
An example of a TEE probe includes a user-operable first interface by which the operator can control a transducer coupled to an end of a gastro scope. Controlling the transducer can include manipulating the alignment or position of the probe head within the patient. In a typical system, the ultrasound unit to which the transducer is attached is controlled by a second interface that can include a keyboard, a touchpad, or a foot pedal. This second interface allows selection of a mode of operation, capturing an image, and other functions associated with excitation and processing of the data from the ultrasound unit. According to one example of the present subject matter, the buttons associated with the sleeve are configured to provide functionality corresponding to the second interface. In one example, the buttons of the present subject matter operate in parallel with the second interface. The probe-mounted buttons that control the transducer remain fully functional and accessible when the probe is equipped with the sleeve of the present subject matter. For example, the probe-mounted buttons can be accessible through cut-outs in the wall of the sleeve.
The sleeve can be affixed to the probe in a manner that is non-permanent, non-damaging, and easily removable. In this manner, both the sleeve and TEE probe can be easily sanitized or sterilized. The sleeve may attach through a variety of methods including a single tubular piece, a slide-over elastomer design, a single piece with an attachment slit, a two-piece clamshell design with attachment members, multiple pieces with multiple attachment members, or other attachment designs. The sleeve can be fabricated of a rigid material or a flexible material.
The sleeve can be fabricated of a material that is selected to facilitate ergonomic use, comfort in the hand, increase grip, ease of cleaning, ease of attachment and removal, and/or remote functionality with embedded buttons. To this end, materials utilized in the sleeve may include an elastomer to allow single piece design and slide over sleeves, hard plastic or metals with textured surfaces to accommodate multi-piece design and/or non-porous material for ease of cleaning and disinfection. Examples of particular elastomers include silicone, urethane or other elastomer.
An example of an electric circuit for the sleeve buttons is shown in FIG. 6. An example circuit includes a serial port connector, a three-button array (sometimes used for freeze, acquire and color Doppler) and LEDs for illuminating buttons in a dark operating room. The circuit can also include vibratory or sound producing devices to provide feedback and assist with location of buttons in dark, noisy and busy operating room environments.
In one example, the sleeve is configured for improved ergonomics. This can include an exterior surface that is textured to improve gripping by a user. In addition, this can include a patterned texture on an exterior surface of the sleeve. The pattern can be cut or molded in to the sleeve. In one example, the sleeve is shaped to fit ergonomically in a hand (shape of hand). One example includes a molded structure having a stopper or barbell shape configured to prevent loss of grip.
The user operable switches can be in the form of a button. The button can be configured for various functionality, including acquire, color, and freeze. Other user-selected functions are also contemplated. In addition, the buttons can be arranged in a linear array or in a non-linear array at a selected location. Any number of buttons or arrangements of buttons are contemplated. In one example, the buttons can be repositionable on the sleeve. This flexibility allows for left-handed or right-handed use. A channel or track in the sleeve allows a button to be repositioned. In one example, the buttons are disposed on an external surface or on an elastic band that can rotate and secured about a longitudinal axis of the probe.
In one example, a transducer provides feedback to a user coincident with manipulation of a button or a state of the remote device. One example includes an audible feedback transducer that is configured to sound an audible tone in coordination with actuation or manipulation of a button. The transducer can include a tactile feedback device that provides a haptic response. The surface of the button or switch can be textured or shaped to allow easy identification. In one example, a light (such as an LED) provides illumination of a button. In one example, a phosphorescence or glow-in-the-dark material is provided with a switch or button to facilitate identification and actuation.
In one example, the buttons of the sleeve are configured to work in parallel with those controls provided on the remote device. For example, the buttons of the sleeve can be interfaced in the same manner as a foot pedal controller, that is, with plug and play functionality. In one example, the buttons of the sleeve provide an expanded set of functions from the sleeve relative to that available from that of a control panel of the remote device. In one example, the buttons interface with the proprietary connections of a specific manufacturer. For example, the buttons can be electrically wired to an ultrasonic machine using a serial input interface or in communication to an ultrasonic machine using a wireless protocol such as Bluetooth.
The sleeve can be configured for attachment in a non-permanent manner and without damage to the probe, thus enabling cleaning and removal. One example is configured in the form of a tubular, one-piece device. One example is fabricated of an elastomeric material and is configured to stretch over the probe and grip the probe with an elastic compressive force. One example includes a clamshell design that clamps into a closed position. One example includes multiple attachment members. The sleeve can be fabricated of a rigid plastic or of a metal. The sleeve can be fabricated of a non-porous material for easy clean and disinfection.
A sleeve can be configured with a plurality of buttons. The buttons can be configured to perform a plurality of functions. The buttons can be arranged in a linear or a non-linear fashion on the surface of the sleeve. The buttons can be individually selected and configured for interfacing with an ultrasound machine (for example). The locations of the buttons on the sleeve can be such to allow manipulation with either the left hand or the right hand.
A sleeve can be coupled to the sleeve by a connecting band. In one example, the connecting band can encircle a portion of the sleeve and allow the button assembly to be repositioned on an external surface of the sleeve. The buttons can be configured for ease of identification and actuation. In various examples, the buttons can be used in a dark environment and are configured to provide an audible feedback or a tactile feedback. In one example, the buttons are illuminated by a light or an LED or are configured to glow in the dark. In one example, a channel molded on an inner surface of the sleeve allows the buttons to slide.
One example includes a sleeve fabricated of an elastomer and configured to slide over the device (such as a TEE probe). The sleeve can have a single piece-configuration with a longitudinal slit that facilitates installation and removal without damage to the TEE probe. A snap or other temporary fastener provides a connection to securely attach the sleeve to the probe.
One example includes a multi-piece sleeve having multiple attachment members. The configuration allows for easy removal and cleaning without damaging the TEE probe. In one example, the sleeve has two pieces. The two pieces are held in alignment by the pins and corresponding holes disposed on mating surfaces of the sleeve.
One example includes a two-piece clamshell design having attachment members. The configuration allows easy removal and cleaning without damaging the TEE probe. The clamshell element includes a hinge or joint that allows the individual pieces to open and close.
One example includes a sleeve having a singular tubular configuration that slides over the TEE probe and thus allows easy removal and cleaning without damaging the probe. In one example, the sleeve is fabricated of an elastomer that allows single piece slide-over installation and removal.
One example includes a rigid plastic or metal having a textured surface to accommodate multiple pieces design. In addition, the sleeve is fabricated of a non-porous material that facilitates easy cleaning and disinfection. The cover elements are fabricated of hard plastic and are configured to cover the button and protect the LED lights and circuitry.
Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples.
The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.
In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.
In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.
Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.
The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed
Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

The claimed invention is:

1. A device comprising:

a switch configured for manipulation by a user; and

a housing having an interior surface configured to receive an external feature of a handheld controller for a transesophageal ultrasound system, the housing having a plurality of switch positions and wherein the switch is coupled to the housing at one position of the plurality of switch positions.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein the plurality of switch positions correspond to a track.

3. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing includes a plurality of ports and wherein the plurality of switch positions corresponds to each of the plurality of ports.

4. The device of claim 1 further including a feedback transducer coupled to the housing wherein the feedback transducer is configured to provide a human-perceptible output corresponding to at least one of the switch and the system.

5. The device of claim 4 wherein the feedback transducer includes at least one of a haptic transducer, a light, and a sound transducer.

6. The device of claim 1 wherein the switch is coupled to a remote console by a wireless communication link.

7. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing includes silicone.

8. The device of claim 1 wherein the switch is coupled to a remote console and further wherein the console is coupled to the system.

9. The device of claim 1 wherein the switch is slidably affixed to the housing.

10. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing is configured to provide clearance for a user-operable control of the system.

11. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing includes a sheath.

12. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing includes a strap.

13. A method comprising:

providing a user-operable switch, the switch configured to couple with a controller for a transesophageal ultrasound system; and

providing a housing, the housing having an interior surface configured to receive an external feature of the controller and having a plurality of positions at which the switch can be coupled to the housing.

14. The method of claim 13 wherein providing the housing includes providing a track and wherein the plurality of positions correspond to the track.

15. The method of claim 13 wherein providing the housing includes providing a housing having a plurality of ports and wherein the plurality of positions correspond to each of the plurality of ports.

16. The method of claim 13 further including providing a feedback transducer coupled to the housing, the feedback transducer configured to provide a human-perceptible signal corresponding to the controller.

17. The method of claim 16 further including coupling the switch and the feedback transducer.

18. The method of claim 13 further including applying silicone to an external surface of the housing.

19. The method of claim 13 further including providing a wireless transceiver coupled to the switch.