Method and apparatus for pre-cleaning endoscope

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope. There is provided a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope, the method comprising: providing an endoscope comprising a channel system, the channel system comprising: a first channel section, a second channel section and a third channel section and a first channel opening, a second channel opening and a third channel opening, where the channel sections are connected to each other at a channel connection; connecting each of a liquid source, in particular a container containing a liquid, a suction device, preferably a suction pump, and a sealing element to a different one of the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening, wherein the liquid source comprises a containing chamber having a variable containing chamber volume; the suction device is activated for aspirating liquid from the liquid source towards the suction device, where during aspiration of liquid from the liquid source, the accommodation chamber volume of the accommodation chamber is reduced, preferably the volume of liquid aspirated from the liquid source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an arrangement for pre-cleaning an endoscope. Background Art

[0002] An endoscope is an inspection instrument that can be used to inspect and optionally manipulate the interior of a living organism. Endoscopes can be used in human medical diagnosis, for inspection or minimally invasive surgery on humans or animals. An endoscope typically includes an image sensor, an optical lens, and a light source.

[0003] After use, endoscopes are typically pre-cleaned, manually or automatically cleaned, disinfected, and possibly sterilized before being used again on a patient. If endoscopes and accessories used in patient procedures are not cleaned immediately after each patient procedure, the remaining organic debris will begin to dry and solidify, which prevents effective removal and reprocessing. Therefore, it is necessary to pre-clean endoscopes and accessories at the bedside immediately after each patient procedure.

[0004] Typically, the pre-cleaning performed at the bedside immediately after each patient surgery includes (among other things) the following steps: First, the biopsy / suction channel is pre-cleaned by placing the distal end of the endoscope in water and aspirating fluid through the endoscope. Then, air is aspirated through the endoscope. Secondly, the air / water channel is pre-cleaned by placing the distal end of the endoscope in water and flushing the air / water channel with fluid. Then, the air / water channel is flushed with air. Third, if available, the auxiliary water channel is pre-cleaned by flushing the auxiliary water channel with water. Finally, the accessories are removed from the endoscope and placed in a fluid such as water or a detergent solution. Typically, after the pre-cleaning procedure, the endoscope is removed from the equipment used in the patient surgery (such as, for example, the video system center, light source, suction pump) and transported to the reprocessing area.

[0005] In US 1 1 445 900 B2 it is suggested to pre-clean an endoscope by using a plurality of input members in the form of flexible tubes for delivering a cleaning solution to a plurality of input ports of the endoscope such that the cleaning solution is delivered to the endoscope through the flexible tubes.

[0006] However, known pre-cleaning procedures are both relatively time-consuming and prone to error. Since pre-cleaning usually consists of several manually applied steps that are subsequently performed, pre-cleaning is relatively time-consuming, and if only one of these steps is not performed in full accordance with the pre-cleaning procedure, the endoscope may not be adequately pre-cleaned. In addition, since not all endoscope channels are connected to each other, it is not possible to flush all channels with only one source. In the pre-cleaning procedure that is usually performed, the video system center needs to flush the air / water channel, the suction pump is used for the suction and biopsy channels, and the flushing pump or syringe is used to flush the auxiliary water channel. Therefore, the user is constantly involved in the procedure and needs to interact with several different user interfaces, which requires the user to be able to operate all of these user interfaces. In addition, a large amount of equipment / accessories are required to perform the pre-cleaning procedure.

[0007] Furthermore, there is the problem that, after pre-cleaning, drying and solidification may occur in the channels which are no longer filled with fluid.

[0008] Furthermore, with known pre-cleaning methods, there may be situations where not all channel segments (particularly branch channel segments) of the endoscope are flushed, and therefore channel segments (particularly branch channel segments) may be omitted from the pre-cleaning procedure. However, this may result in inadequate pre-cleaning and undesirable drying and solidification of residual organic debris. Summary of the invention

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved method and an improved device for pre-cleaning an endoscope. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope which is less prone to error.

[0010] According to a first aspect, a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope is provided, preferably the pre-cleaning is performed immediately or shortly after the endoscope is used, the method comprising: providing an endoscope comprising a channel system, the channel system comprising: a first channel section, a second channel section and a third channel section and a first channel opening, a second channel opening and a third channel opening, wherein the channel sections are connected to each other at a channel connection, wherein the first channel opening is arranged at an end of the first channel section and at a distal end of the endoscope, wherein the second channel opening is arranged at an end of the second channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose, and wherein the third channel opening is arranged at an end of the third channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose; introducing a liquid into the endoscope; A source (in particular a container for containing liquid), a suction device (preferably a suction pump) and a sealing element are each connected to a different channel opening among the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening, so that each of the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening is connected to the liquid source, the suction device or the sealing element, wherein the liquid source is configured to provide an airtight seal relative to the environment surrounding the liquid source, wherein the liquid source includes a storage chamber having a storage chamber volume for containing liquid, wherein the storage chamber volume of the storage chamber is changeable; the suction device is started to draw liquid from the liquid source toward the suction device, wherein, during the suction of liquid from the liquid source, the storage chamber volume of the storage chamber is reduced, preferably, reducing the volume of liquid drawn from the liquid source.

[0011] In the following, firstly a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope and its function and advantageous embodiments will be described.

[0012] Preferably, the method is performed immediately or shortly after the endoscope is used in a patient procedure. Preferably, the method for pre-cleaning the endoscope is started within 60 minutes after use in a patient procedure, particularly preferably within 30 minutes after use in a patient procedure, in particular within 15 minutes after use in a patient procedure. Preferably, the pre-cleaning is performed at the patient's bedside, so that the method can be performed immediately or shortly after the endoscope is used in a patient procedure, without having to move the endoscope to another location before performing the pre-cleaning.

[0013] Preferably, the channel system comprises at least three channel segments.Preferably, the channel system may comprise more than three channel segments.

[0014] The first channel section, the second channel section and the third channel section are connected to each other at a channel connection portion. Preferably, the channel connection portion is arranged inside the endoscope.

[0015] Preferably, a channel section should be understood as a part of a channel extending from a channel opening to a channel connection or a channel extending from a channel opening to a channel connection or a branch channel extending from a channel opening to a channel connection. Preferably, a channel connection should be understood as a branching point where several channel sections (particularly, a first channel section, a second channel section and a third channel section) converge.

[0016] The distal end of an endoscope may also be referred to as the distal tip of the endoscope. Preferably, the distal end is to be understood as the end of the endoscope which is located at the frontmost end of the insertion section of the endoscope, in particular, the end which is first inserted into the patient when the insertion section of the endoscope is moved into the patient. Preferably, the outlet of the channel of the endoscope is arranged at the distal end. Further preferably, the light guide is arranged at the distal end. Further preferably, the objective lens can be arranged at the distal end. It is particularly preferred if the distal end is arranged at the end of the insertion section with a flexible insertion tube.

[0017] Preferably, a connection port is to be understood as a port to which a fluid hose or the like can be connected.

[0018] Preferably, the endoscope may be, for example, a colonoscope, or a gastroscope, or an ultrasound endoscope, or a duodenoscope, or another type of endoscope.

[0019] Preferably, the liquid source contains liquid that can be used to flush the channel section. The liquid source comprises a receiving chamber having a receiving chamber volume for receiving the liquid. The receiving chamber volume can be varied, in particular, depending on the volume of the liquid arranged inside the receiving chamber. Preferably, the receiving chamber volume is substantially equal to the volume of the liquid arranged in the receiving chamber. Preferably, when liquid is withdrawn from the liquid source, the receiving chamber volume decreases corresponding to the reduction of liquid.

[0020] Each of the first, second and third passage openings is connected to one of a liquid source, a suction device or a sealing element. Preferably, the liquid source is connected to the first passage opening, the suction device is connected to the second passage opening, and the sealing element is connected to the third passage opening.

[0021] Preferably, by activating the suction device, liquid is drawn from the liquid source through the first channel section and the second channel section towards the suction device.

[0022] Preferably, by activating the suction device, air is extracted from the channel section connected to the sealing element.

[0023] The advantage of this method is that air can be extracted from the channel section to which the sealing element is connected by applying negative pressure using a suction device, whereby negative pressure can be established in this channel section, and other channel sections are flushed with liquid, so that when the suction device is closed and / or disconnected from the channel system in another step, liquid can be drawn into this channel section due to the negative pressure in the channel to which the sealing element is connected, so that this channel section is also filled with liquid. Therefore, by first applying negative pressure to the channel system and then removing and / or disconnecting the suction device to draw liquid into the channel section from which air has been extracted and negative pressure has been established, the first channel section, the second channel section and the third channel section can be filled with liquid. Because the negative pressure is reduced so that the ambient pressure is finally present, the channel section to which the sealing element is connected is particularly filled with liquid.

[0024] Another advantage of this method is that the entire channel system including the first channel section, the second channel section and the third channel section can be reliably filled with liquid. In particular, the branch channel section can also be reliably filled with liquid. In this way, it can be ensured that all channel sections are fully filled with liquid and pre-cleaned. Therefore, insufficient pre-cleaning and undesirable drying and solidification of residual organic debris can be avoided.

[0025] The advantage of this method is that after the pre-cleaning procedure, the channel can remain moistened and / or filled with liquid. Thus, drying and solidification in the channel after the pre-cleaning can be prevented in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0026] In a further preferred embodiment, the sealing element is connected to the corresponding passage opening in such a way that this passage opening is sealed gas-tight with respect to the environment surrounding the passage opening.

[0027] Preferably, the sealing element is connected to the third channel opening. Such an airtight seal may be understood as an airtight seal.

[0028] The advantage of sealing the respective channel with respect to the environment is that in this way no external gas can enter the channel and a negative pressure can be built up in the respective channel, wherein this negative pressure in the channel can later be used to draw liquid into the channel.

[0029] In another preferred embodiment, the first channel section extends from the first channel opening to the channel connection, wherein the second channel section extends from the second channel opening to the channel connection, and wherein the third channel section extends from the third channel opening to the channel connection. Preferably, the first channel section, the second channel section and the third channel section extend from the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening to the channel connection, respectively.

[0030] In another preferred embodiment, the first channel segment and the second channel segment form a channel extending from the first channel opening to the second channel opening, and wherein the third channel segment forms a branch channel segment, which is connected to the channel fluid at the channel connection. Such a channel formed by the first channel segment and the second channel segment can form a suction channel extending from the first channel opening at the distal end of the endoscope to the second channel opening, the second channel opening forming a connection port to which a suction device can be connected.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment, a liquid source is connected to the first channel opening and is arranged at the distal end of the endoscope in such a way that the liquid source is fluidly connected to the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are hermetically sealed relative to the environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

[0032] An advantage of such a hermetic sealing of the distal end with respect to the environment by using a liquid source is that in this way the receiving chamber volume of the receiving chamber can be reduced as liquid is withdrawn from the liquid source.

[0033] Preferably, the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are also fluid-tightly sealed relative to the environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

[0034] An advantage of sealing the distal end with respect to the environment by using a liquid source is that in this way external fluid cannot enter the channel section and liquid cannot escape from the distal end into the environment surrounding the liquid source.

[0035] In a further preferred embodiment, the suction device is connected to the second channel opening via an intermediate liquid-receiving element, in particular a hose, having a receiving volume, the receiving volume preferably being formed by the channel of the intermediate liquid-receiving element.

[0036] Preferably, such an intermediate liquid containing element is arranged between the second channel opening and the suction device. Preferably, such an intermediate liquid containing element is configured to contain liquid drawn from the liquid source toward the suction device by applying a negative pressure using the suction device. Preferably, after the liquid is drawn toward the suction device and enters the intermediate liquid containing element, the suction device is closed and / or disconnected so that the suction device no longer applies a negative pressure and the liquid arranged in the intermediate liquid containing element can be drawn to the third channel section by the negative pressure established in the third channel section.

[0037] The advantage of such an intermediate liquid holding element is that the liquid can be collected and then arranged to be transferred to the third channel section, wherein, due to the negative pressure already established in the third channel section, the liquid can be automatically transferred from the intermediate liquid holding element to the third channel section. Thus, the third channel section can be reliably supplied with liquid, so that the third channel section is pre-cleaned and no solidification processes occur in the third channel section.

[0038] Preferably, the storage volume of the intermediate liquid storage element is equal to or greater than the storage volume of the third channel section. In this way, a sufficient amount of liquid can be collected in the intermediate liquid storage element to be transferred to the third channel section.

[0039] In a further preferred embodiment, air is removed from the third channel section by activating the suction device in such a way that a negative pressure is established in the third channel section, wherein the third channel section is preferably formed as a biopsy branch or an air channel branch.

[0040] Preferably, the extension of the third channel section from the third channel opening to the channel connection is several times smaller than the extension of the first channel section from the first channel opening to the channel connection.Preferably, the extension of the third channel section from the third channel opening to the channel connection is several times smaller than the extension of the second channel section from the second channel opening to the channel connection.

[0041] In a further preferred embodiment, the method comprises ventilating the channel section to which the suction device is connected and preferably ventilating other channel sections and / or the channel, preferably by disconnecting the suction device from the second channel opening.

[0042] Preferably, venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected particularly stops the application of negative pressure by the suction device. In addition, venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected allows air to flow into the intermediate liquid containing element.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment, the method includes: after ventilating the channel segment to which the suction device is connected, filling the third channel segment with liquid from the channel segment to which the suction device is connected by using the negative pressure established due to the negative pressure applied by the suction device in the third channel segment before ventilation.

[0044] Preferably, venting the channel section results in a pressure difference between this channel and a third channel in which a negative pressure is established, so that liquid is drawn into the third channel section.

[0045] In a further preferred embodiment, connecting the sealing element to the third passage opening comprises arranging a transparent sealing element, preferably designed as a closed transparent tube element, onto the third passage opening.

[0046] Preferably, the sealing element is transparent. Such a transparent sealing element has the advantage that if a liquid is arranged close to the seal, it can be seen from the outside of the endoscope.

[0047] Preferably, the sealing element is formed as a closed tube element, which is preferably transparent or at least partially transparent. In this way, liquid can be drawn into the sealing element through the third channel section and thus drawn completely through the third channel section. An advantage of such a tubular sealing element is that a user can easily verify from outside the endoscope whether liquid is present in the sealing element and thus whether liquid has been drawn through the third channel section.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment, the liquid arranged in the liquid source and drawn through the channel section is water or a disinfectant solution or a cleaning agent solution.

[0049] Preferably a disinfectant solution and / or a detergent solution is used in order to achieve better removal of organic debris.

[0050] In another preferred embodiment, the endoscope includes the following channels: an air channel extending from an air channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, a suction channel (preferably formed by a first channel segment and a second channel segment) extending from a suction channel connection port (preferably formed by a second channel opening) to the distal end of the endoscope, a water channel extending from a water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, and an auxiliary water channel preferably extending from the auxiliary water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope.

[0051] Preferably, the air channel is adapted to provide air to the distal end of the endoscope. Preferably, the suction channel is adapted to extract liquids and / or objects, such as, for example, tissue samples, through the endoscope from the distal end of the endoscope. Preferably, the water channel is adapted to provide water at the distal end of the endoscope. Preferably, the auxiliary water channel is adapted to provide water at the distal end of the endoscope.

[0052] Preferably, the channels are arranged parallel to each other over at least a portion of their extension from one of the connection ports to the distal end of the endoscope.The endoscope may comprise at least one other channel section not extending to the distal end of the endoscope, in particular a branch channel section such as a biopsy branch.

[0053] In another preferred embodiment, the channels are fluidly connected to each other at the distal end of the endoscope by arranging a container on the distal end of the endoscope in such a way that the distal end is hermetically sealed relative to the environment surrounding the distal end. Preferably, the container is not filled with liquid before flushing the channel of the endoscope. The advantage of this empty container is that the liquid can be drawn from a liquid source arranged at the connection port through the channel to the container, and can be drawn from the container through at least a portion of the channel system (particularly, through the first channel section and the second channel section). Alternatively, the container may also be filled with liquid before flushing the channel. Filling the container with liquid before starting to flush the channel can have the following advantages: if necessary, the distal end of the endoscope is in contact with the liquid for a longer period of time and is soaked for a longer period of time, which can be conducive to achieving a more thorough pre-cleaning of the distal end.

[0054] Preferably, the internal volume of the vessel is immutable. This can be achieved, for example, by using a relatively hard material for the walls of the vessel, which define the internal chamber of the vessel. In this way, when negative pressure is applied to the internal chamber of the vessel, the internal volume of the vessel does not shrink but remains substantially unchanged, so that even when negative pressure is applied to the channel system and thus to the internal volume of the vessel, the fluid connection of the channel at the end of the endoscope is maintained.

[0055] In another preferred embodiment, the method includes: connecting a liquid source to at least two connection ports, preferably at least to a connection port of an air channel and a connection port of a water channel, and drawing liquid from the liquid source through the channels of the endoscope (preferably, through all channels of the endoscope) toward a suction device.

[0056] An advantage of such an embodiment is that liquid can be pumped through all channels (possibly through other channel segments and / or channels) to which such a liquid source is connected.

[0057] The advantages described above with respect to the method for pre-cleaning also apply to the advantages of the device for pre-cleaning.

[0058] According to another aspect, a device for pre-cleaning an endoscope is provided, preferably for pre-cleaning immediately or shortly after use of the endoscope, in particular for pre-cleaning an endoscope according to the method described herein, the device comprising: an endoscope comprising a channel system, the channel system comprising: a first channel segment, a second channel segment and a third channel segment and a first channel opening, a second channel opening and a third channel opening, wherein the channel segments are connected to each other at a channel connection, wherein the first channel opening is arranged at the end of the first channel segment and at the distal end of the endoscope, wherein the second channel opening is arranged at the end of the second channel segment and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose, and wherein the third channel opening is The channel opening is arranged at the end of the third channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose; a liquid source (in particular a container for containing liquid), a suction device (preferably a suction pump) and a sealing element, wherein the liquid source, the suction device and the sealing element are respectively connected to different channel openings among the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening, so that each of the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening is connected to the liquid source, the suction device or the sealing element, wherein the liquid source is configured to provide an airtight seal relative to the environment surrounding the liquid source, wherein the liquid source includes a storage chamber having a storage chamber volume for containing liquid, wherein the storage chamber volume of the storage chamber is changeable.

[0059] In a further preferred embodiment, the first channel section extends from the first channel opening to the channel connection, wherein the second channel section extends from the second channel opening to the channel connection, and wherein the third channel section extends from the third channel opening to the channel connection.

[0060] In another preferred embodiment, a liquid source is connected to the first channel opening and is arranged at the distal end of the endoscope in such a way that the liquid source is fluidly connected to the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are hermetically sealed relative to the environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

[0061] In a further preferred embodiment, the sealing element is connected to the corresponding channel opening in such a way that this channel opening is sealed gas-tight with respect to the environment surrounding the channel opening, wherein preferably the sealing element is connected to the third channel opening.

[0062] In a further preferred embodiment, the sealing element is formed as a transparent sealing element, preferably designed as a closed transparent tube element connected to the third channel opening.

[0063] In another preferred embodiment, the channel includes: an air channel extending from an air channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, a suction channel (preferably formed by a first channel segment and a second channel segment) extending from a suction channel connection port (preferably formed by a second channel opening) to the distal end of the endoscope, a water channel extending from a water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, and an auxiliary water channel preferably extending from the auxiliary water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope.

[0064] With regard to advantages, preferences and details of the various aspects and preferred embodiments thereof, reference is also made to the corresponding advantages, preferences and details described with reference to the respective other aspects.

[0065] Further advantageous embodiments result from individual, several or all combinations of the preferred features described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope;

[0067] Figure 2a : A schematic flow chart showing a first part of an exemplary embodiment of a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope;

[0068] Figure 2b : Shows Figure 2a A schematic flow chart of a second portion of an embodiment of the method for pre-cleaning an endoscope is shown;

[0069] Figure 3a : A schematic diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope;

[0070] Figure 3b : A schematic diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope;

[0071] Figure 4 : A schematic diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope;

[0072] Figure 5 : A schematic flow chart showing an exemplary embodiment of a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] In the drawings, elements having the same or similar functions are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0074] Figure 1A schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope 10 is shown. The endoscope 10 may be pre-cleaned immediately or soon after use of the endoscope 10. The endoscope 10 includes an endoscope body 30 and channels 11, 12, 13, 14 for conveying fluids, namely: a suction channel 11, an air channel 12, a water channel 13, and an auxiliary water channel 14.

[0075] The suction channel 11 is suitable for extracting liquid and / or objects, such as, for example, tissue samples, through the endoscope 10 from the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The suction channel 11 extends from a second channel opening 11a formed as a suction channel connection port 11a to a first channel opening 11z arranged at the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The distal end 20 is the end of the endoscope 10, which is located at the frontmost part of the insertion section 21 of the endoscope 10.

[0076] The suction channel 11 is formed by a first channel section 11y and a second channel section 11x. The first channel section 11y extends from the first channel opening 11z to the channel connecting portion 11j. The second channel section 11x extends from the second channel opening 11a to the channel connecting portion 11j.

[0077] The endoscope 10 further includes a third channel segment 11b formed as a biopsy branch 11b extending from a third channel opening 11c formed as a biopsy branch connection port 11c to a channel connection portion 11j where the third channel segment merges with the first channel segment 11y and the second channel segment 11x.

[0078] The first channel section 11 y , the second channel section 11 x , and the third channel section 11 b , which meet at the channel connection 11 j , form a channel system 11 s .

[0079] The air channel 12 is adapted to provide air to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The air channel 12 extends from the air channel connection port 12a to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The water channel 13 is adapted to provide water at the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The water channel 13 extends from the water channel connection port 13a to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The auxiliary water channel 14 is adapted to provide water at the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The auxiliary water channel 14 extends from the auxiliary water channel connection port 14a to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10.

[0080] The connection ports 11a, 11c, 12a, 13a, 14a are suitable for connecting fluid hoses and / or containers and / or closure elements and / or sealing elements. Each of the channels 11, 12, 13, 14 extends from one of the connection ports 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10.

[0081] The air channel 12 and the water channel 13 can be fluidically connected to each other and / or separated from each other via the air / water cylinder 19. The vent can be assembled to the air / water cylinder 19. The air / water cylinder 19 is sealed with a closing element 60, which is suitable for closing the air / water cylinder 19 in a fluid-tight manner. Furthermore, a suction cylinder 40 is provided to which the suction channel 11 is connected. The vent can be assembled to the suction cylinder 40.

[0082] The sealing element 78 is arranged on the biopsy branch connection port 11c. The sealing element 78 is formed as a transparent sealing element, which is designed as a closed transparent tube element. The sealing element 78 is arranged on the third channel opening 11c in a manner that the third channel opening 11c is hermetically sealed relative to the environment surrounding the third channel opening 11c.

[0083] A liquid source 77 formed as a vessel is arranged on the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 so that the liquid source 77 is connected to the first channel opening 11z and thus to the first channel section 11y. The liquid source 77 has a liquid receiving chamber 77h having a variable receiving chamber volume. The liquid to be drawn into the channel system 11s is arranged in the liquid receiving chamber 77h, wherein the volume of the liquid is equal to the liquid receiving volume. The liquid source 77 is airtight and liquid-tightly sealed relative to the environment surrounding the liquid source 77.

[0084] In this preferred embodiment, the suction device 90 formed as a suction pump is connected to the connection port 11a of the second channel section 11x via a fluid hose 90a. A suction tank 95 can be connected to the suction device 90 to collect the liquid extracted from the channel system 11s. When the suction device 90 is started, a negative pressure is applied to the channel system 11s, so that the liquid is drawn from the liquid source 77 through the first channel section 11y and the second channel section 11x toward the suction device 90. During the extraction of liquid from the liquid source 77, the volume of the liquid and the volume of the liquid holding chamber 77h at the same time are reduced because the liquid source is formed to be airtight so that no air can enter the liquid holding chamber from the outside of the liquid source. Due to the negative pressure applied by the suction device in the channel system 11s, air is drawn out of the third channel section 11b and may be drawn out from the sealing element 78 toward the suction device 90, so that a negative pressure is established in the third channel section 11b.

[0085] When the liquid is completely drawn out of the liquid source, i.e., when the liquid holding chamber is emptied and the volume of the liquid chamber 77h is substantially equal to zero, the suction device 90 is disconnected from the fluid hose 90a, so that the suction device 90 no longer applies a negative pressure, and the channel system 11s is ventilated due to the opening of the channel system 11s relative to the environment at the second channel opening 11a and / or the fluid hose 90a. Now, the lowest pressure exists in the third channel segment 11b to which a negative pressure was previously applied by removing air from the third channel segment 11b. Due to the lowest pressure, the liquid present in the channel system 11s and / or the fluid hose 90a is drawn toward and into the third channel segment 11b.

[0086] If the fluid hose 90a is formed as an intermediate liquid containing element, the containing volume of this intermediate liquid containing element is equal to or greater than the containing volume of the third channel section 11b. In this way, a sufficient amount of liquid can be collected in the intermediate liquid containing element 90a to be transferred to the third channel section 11b, and preferably, the entire channel system 11s can be kept wet and / or filled with liquid.

[0087] Furthermore, an additional liquid source, preferably formed as a container, or a closure element for closing a connection port, can be arranged on an additional connection port as follows: A container 72 can be arranged on the connection port 12a of the air channel 12. If it is not necessary to flush the air channel 12 during the pre-cleaning program, a closure element can be arranged on the connection port 12a instead of the container 72. A container 73 can be arranged on the connection port 13a of the water channel 13. If it is not necessary to flush the water channel 13 during the pre-cleaning program, a closure element can be arranged on the connection port 13a instead of the container 73. Furthermore, a container 74 can be arranged on the connection port 14a of the auxiliary water channel 14. If it is not necessary to flush the auxiliary water channel 14 during the pre-cleaning program, a closure element can be arranged on the connection port 14a instead of the container 74. The containers 72, 73, 74 can be filled with a liquid, in particular a disinfectant solution and / or a detergent solution.

[0088] Figure 2a A schematic flow chart of a first part of an exemplary embodiment of a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope is shown. The channel system 11s, the sealing element 78, the liquid source 77, the suction pump 90 and the suction canister 95 can be combined as shown in FIG. Figure 1Arranged in the manner described. The channel system 11s includes a first channel section 11y, a second channel section 11x and a third channel section 11b, wherein the first channel section, the second channel section and the third channel section are connected at a channel connection portion 11j. A suction pump 90 is connected to the channel system 11s at the second channel opening of the second channel section 11x so that a negative pressure is applied to the channel system 11s. Due to this negative pressure, liquid passes through the first channel section 11y and passes through the second channel section 11x and is drawn out from the container 77 toward the suction pump 90. Liquid or part of the liquid can be collected in a suction tank 95. Due to the negative pressure applied to the channel system 11s, air is drawn out from the third channel section 11b and the sealing element 78. The flow directions of the liquid and the air are both indicated by arrows.

[0089] Figure 2b Shows Figure 2a A schematic flow chart of a second part of an embodiment of a method for pre-cleaning an endoscope is shown.

[0090] After the liquid is drawn from the container 77 and passes through the first and second channel sections 11y, 11x (such as the combination of Figure 2a After that, the suction pump 90 is disconnected from the channel system 11s by disconnecting the suction pump 90 from the second channel opening of the second channel segment 11x, so that the suction device 90 no longer applies negative pressure to the channel system 11s. Due to the negative pressure that has been established in the third channel segment 11b, liquid is drawn from the second channel segment 11x toward the third channel segment 11b, so that the third channel segment 11b is filled with liquid. The liquid flow direction is indicated by an arrow.

[0091] Figure 3a A schematic diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope, which can be used in conjunction with Figure 2a and Figure 2b In the described method. The channel system 11s includes a first channel segment 11y as part of a suction channel, a second channel segment 11x also as part of the suction channel, and a third channel segment 11b formed as a biopsy branch, wherein the first channel segment, the second channel segment and the third channel segment are connected at a channel connection 11j. A suction pump 90 is connected to the channel system 11s at the second channel opening of the second channel segment 11x so that negative pressure can be applied to the channel system 11s. The container 77 connected to the channel opening of the first channel segment 11y is formed to be airtight and has a liquid holding chamber 77h, which has a variable volume. The sealing element 78 is arranged on the third channel opening of the third channel segment 11b in such a way that the third channel opening is airtightly sealed relative to the environment surrounding the third channel opening. Liquid can be extracted through the channel segments, such as in combination with Figure 2a and Figure 2bdescribed.

[0092] Figure 3b A schematic diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope is shown, similar to Figure 3a The embodiment shown, therefore it refers to Figure 3a However, in Figure 3b In the embodiment shown, the suction device 90 is connected to the second channel opening of the second channel section 11x via an intermediate liquid containing element 90a, which is formed as a fluid hose 90a with a containing volume, which is formed by the channel of the intermediate liquid containing element. After the suction pump 90 is disconnected from the channel system 11s, liquid can be drawn from the intermediate liquid containing element 90a through the second channel section 11x and into the third channel section 11b. In addition, the sealing element 78 arranged on the biopsy branch 11b is formed as a transparent sealing element, which is designed as a closed transparent tube element 78, which is arranged on the third channel opening of the third channel section 11b in such a way that the third channel opening is hermetically sealed relative to the environment surrounding the third channel opening.

[0093] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope 10 is shown. The apparatus is substantially as described in conjunction with Figure 1 However, instead of a liquid containing element, a vessel 80 is disposed on the distal tip 20 of the endoscope 10 .

[0094] By arranging the vessel 80 on the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10, the channels 11, 12, 13, 14 are fluidically connected to each other at the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The vessel 80 is arranged on the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 in such a way that the distal end 20 (including the outer peripheral surface 20a of the distal end 20) is completely arranged within the vessel 80. If the vessel 80 becomes filled with liquid, the entire distal end 20 (including the outer surface of the distal end 20) is in contact with the liquid, so that reliable pre-cleaning of the entire distal end 20 can be achieved. The vessel 80 is arranged on the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 in such a way that the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 is sealed liquid-tight and air-tight relative to the environment surrounding the vessel 80.

[0095] A container 72 is arranged on the connection port 12a of the air channel 12. If it is not necessary to flush the air channel 12 during the pre-cleaning program, a closing element can be arranged on the connection port 12a instead of the container 72. A container 73 is arranged on the connection port 13a of the water channel 13. If it is not necessary to flush the water channel 13 during the pre-cleaning program, a closing element can be arranged on the connection port 13a instead of the container 73. In addition, a container 74 is arranged on the connection port 14a of the auxiliary water channel 14. If it is not necessary to flush the auxiliary water channel 14 during the pre-cleaning program, a closing element can be arranged on the connection port 14a instead of the container 74. The containers 72, 73, 74 are filled with a liquid, in particular a disinfectant solution and / or a detergent solution.

[0096] When the suction device 90 is activated, negative pressure is applied to the system, causing liquid to be drawn toward the suction device 90, as described in detail below.

[0097] Liquid is drawn from the containers 72, 73, 74 through the corresponding channels 12, 13, 14 towards the distal end 20. Due to the fluid connection at the distal end 20 provided by the vessel 80 arranged at the distal end 20, the liquid is drawn from there through the entire extension of the suction channel 11, drawn out from the connection port 11a, flows to the suction device 90 via the fluid hose 90a, and flows from the suction device 90 to the suction tank 95.

[0098] When the liquid is completely drawn out of the containers 72, 73, 74, the suction device 90 is disconnected from the fluid hose 90a, so that the suction device 90 no longer applies a negative pressure, and the channel system 11s is ventilated due to the opening of the channel system 11s relative to the environment at the second channel opening 11a and / or the fluid hose 90a. Now, the lowest pressure exists in the third channel section 11b to which a negative pressure was previously applied by removing air from the third channel section 11b. Due to the lowest pressure, the liquid present in the channel system 11s and / or the fluid hose 90a is drawn toward the third channel section 11b and is drawn into the third channel section 11b.

[0099] If the fluid hose 90a is formed as an intermediate liquid containing element, the containing volume of this intermediate liquid containing element is equal to or greater than the containing volume of the third channel section 11b. In this way, a sufficient amount of liquid can be collected in the intermediate liquid containing element 90a to be transferred to the third channel section 11b, and preferably, the entire channel system 11s can be kept wet and / or filled with liquid.

[0100] Figure 5 A schematic flow chart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 100 for pre-cleaning an endoscope is shown. The method 100 is performed immediately or shortly after using the endoscope in a patient surgery and includes the following steps:

[0101] In step 110, an endoscope is provided, which includes a channel system, which includes: a first channel section, a second channel section and a third channel section and a first channel opening, a second channel opening and a third channel opening, wherein the channel sections are connected to each other at a channel connection, wherein the first channel opening is arranged at the end of the first channel section and at the distal end of the endoscope, wherein the second channel opening is arranged at the end of the second channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose, and wherein the third channel opening is arranged at the end of the third channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose.

[0102] In step 120, a liquid source (particularly a container for containing liquid), a suction device (preferably a suction pump) and a sealing element are each connected to a different channel opening among the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening, so that each of the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening is connected to the liquid source, the suction device or the sealing element, wherein the liquid source is configured to provide an airtight seal relative to the environment surrounding the liquid source, wherein the liquid source includes a holding chamber having a holding chamber volume for holding liquid, wherein the holding chamber volume of the holding chamber is changeable.

[0103] In step 130 , a suction device is activated for drawing liquid from the liquid source towards the suction device, wherein during the drawing of liquid from the liquid source, a receiving chamber volume of the receiving chamber is reduced, preferably reducing the volume of liquid drawn from the liquid source.

[0104] In step 140 , the channel section to which the suction device is connected and preferably other channel sections and / or the channel are ventilated, preferably by disconnecting the suction device from the second channel opening.

[0105] In step 150, after ventilating the channel segment to which the suction device is connected, the third channel segment is filled with liquid from the channel segment to which the suction device is connected by using the negative pressure established due to the negative pressure applied by the suction device in the third channel segment before ventilation.

Claims

1. A method for pre-cleaning an endoscope, preferably performed immediately or shortly after using the endoscope, comprising the following steps: An endoscope is provided that includes a channel system, the channel system comprising: a first channel section, a second channel section and a third channel section, wherein the channel sections are connected to one another at a channel connection, and a first channel opening, a second channel opening and a third channel opening, wherein the first channel opening is arranged at the end of the first channel section and at the distal end of the endoscope, wherein the second channel opening is arranged at the end of the second channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose, and wherein the third channel opening is arranged at the end of the third channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose; connecting a liquid source, in particular a container containing liquid, a suction device, preferably a suction pump, and a sealing element to different ones of the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening, respectively, so that each of the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening is connected to the liquid source, the suction device or the sealing element, wherein the liquid source is configured to provide an airtight seal relative to an environment surrounding the liquid source, wherein the liquid source comprises a receiving chamber having a receiving chamber volume for receiving the liquid, wherein the receiving chamber volume of the receiving chamber is variable; The suction device is activated to draw liquid from the liquid source towards the suction device, wherein during the suction of liquid from the liquid source, the receiving chamber volume of the receiving chamber is reduced, preferably reducing the volume of liquid drawn from the liquid source.

2. The method according to claim 1, in, The sealing element is connected to the corresponding channel opening in such a way that this channel opening is sealed gas-tightly with respect to the environment surrounding the channel opening, wherein preferably the sealing element is connected to the third channel opening.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, in, The first channel section extends from the first channel opening to the channel connection, wherein the second channel section extends from the second channel opening to the channel connection, and wherein the third channel section extends from the third channel opening to the channel connection.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in, The first channel segment and the second channel segment form a channel extending from the first channel opening to the second channel opening, and wherein the third channel segment forms a branch channel segment which is fluidically connected to the channel at the channel connection.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in, The liquid source is connected to the first channel opening and is arranged at the distal end of the endoscope in the following manner: the liquid source is fluidly connected to the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are hermetically sealed relative to the environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

6. The method according to claim 4, in, the suction device is connected to the second channel opening via an intermediate liquid containing element, in particular a hose, which has a containing volume, which is preferably formed by the channel of the intermediate liquid containing element, Preferably, the storage volume of the intermediate liquid storage element is larger than the storage volume of the branch channel section.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in, By activating the suction device, air is removed from the third channel section in such a way that a negative pressure is established in the third channel section, wherein preferably the third channel section is formed as a biopsy branch or an air channel branch.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising the steps of: The channel section to which the suction device is connected is ventilated and preferably other channel sections and / or channels are ventilated, preferably by disconnecting the suction device from the second channel opening.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the steps of: After ventilating the channel section to which the suction device is connected, the third channel section is filled with liquid from the channel section to which the suction device is connected by using the negative pressure established due to the negative pressure applied by the suction device in the third channel section before ventilation.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, in, The step of connecting a sealing element to the third passage opening comprises arranging a transparent sealing element onto the third passage opening, the transparent sealing element being preferably designed as a closed transparent tube element.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, in, The liquid arranged in the liquid source and drawn through the channel section is water or a disinfectant solution or a cleaning agent solution.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in, The endoscope includes the following channels: an air channel extending from an air channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, a suction channel extending from a suction channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, the suction channel preferably being formed by the first channel section and the second channel section, the suction channel connection port preferably being formed by the second channel opening, a water channel extending from a water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, and Preferably, an auxiliary water channel extends from an auxiliary water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope.

13. A device for pre-cleaning an endoscope, preferably immediately or shortly after use of the endoscope, in particular for pre-cleaning an endoscope according to the method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the device comprising: An endoscope comprising a channel system, the channel system comprising: a first channel section, a second channel section and a third channel section, wherein the channel sections are connected to one another at a channel connection, and a first channel opening, a second channel opening and a third channel opening, wherein the first channel opening is arranged at the end of the first channel section and at the distal end of the endoscope, wherein the second channel opening is arranged at the end of the second channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose, and wherein the third channel opening is arranged at the end of the third channel section and is formed as a connection port, in particular for connecting a fluid hose; a source of liquid, in particular a container for holding the liquid, a suction device, preferably a suction pump, and Sealing elements, wherein the liquid source, the suction device and the sealing element are each connected to a different channel opening among the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening, so that each of the first channel opening, the second channel opening and the third channel opening is connected to the liquid source, the suction device or the sealing element, wherein the liquid source is configured to provide an airtight seal relative to an environment surrounding the liquid source, wherein the liquid source comprises a receiving chamber having a receiving chamber volume for receiving the liquid, wherein the receiving chamber volume of the receiving chamber is changeable.

14. The device according to claim 13, in, The first channel section extends from the first channel opening to the channel connection, wherein the second channel section extends from the second channel opening to the channel connection, and wherein the third channel section extends from the third channel opening to the channel connection.

15. The device according to claim 13 or 14, in, The liquid source is connected to the first channel opening and is arranged at the distal end of the endoscope in the following manner: the liquid source is fluidly connected to the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are hermetically sealed relative to the environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

16. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, in, The sealing element is connected to the corresponding channel opening in such a way that this channel opening is sealed gas-tightly with respect to the environment surrounding the channel opening, wherein, preferably, the sealing element is connected to the third channel opening, and / or The sealing element is formed as a transparent sealing element connected to the third channel opening, and is preferably designed as a closed transparent tube element.

17. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, in, The channel comprises: an air channel extending from an air channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, a suction channel extending from a suction channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, the suction channel preferably being formed by the first channel section and the second channel section, the suction channel connection port preferably being formed by the second channel opening, a water channel extending from a water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, and Preferably, an auxiliary water channel extends from an auxiliary water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope.

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