IMPROVED ENDOMETRIAL CYTOLOGIC SAMPLING APPARATUS AND METHOD

摘要

Endometrical cytologic sampling and examination is achieved by inserting a transparent membrane into the endometrial cavity to collect the cytologic sample, and then placing the transparent membrane on a microscope slide (35) to permit staining and examination of the sample without transferring the sample from the collector to the slide. The transparent membrane preferably takes the form of a balloon-like member (31) which conforms to the distal end of a tubular probe (10) and can be selectively inflated after insertion by applying pressurized fluid to the proximal end of the probe (10). The probe (10) can be selectively projected from and retracted into an introducer sleeve (19) used to guide the unit to the proper depth in the endometrial cavity. When the probe (10) is properly inserted, a syringe (29) can be connected to a suitable fitting (11) to effect inflation of the balloon-like member (31).