Endoscope reprocessor connectors having reduced occlusion

Abstract

An occlusion minimizing connector connects a lumen in a lumen device to a source of sterilization fluid in an endoscope reprocessor. The connector has a sealing portion shaped to engage a surface on the lumen device. The sealing portion is formed of a resilient material biasing a sealing surface into contact with the surface on the lumen device. The biasing is such that the seal is maintained when pressure within the flow passage is below a predetermined level preventing leakage of the flow past the sealing portion. When pressure within the flow passage is above the predetermined level fluid leaks past the sealing portion to bathe the surface on the lumen device. Thus, the surface will not be occluded during a cleaning process.

Description

technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to endoscope reprocessors and thus to connectors. In particular a connector which reduces occlusion between the endoscope and the connector. Background technique

[0002] The use of endoscopes and similar medical devices having ducts or lumens formed therethrough is increasingly being used in performing medical procedures. The proliferation of these devices has led to a need for improvements in the decontamination of these devices between uses, both in terms of speed of decontamination and efficiency of decontamination.

[0003] A common method for cleaning and disinfecting or sterilizing such endoscopes uses automated endoscope reprocessors to both clean and then disinfect or sterilize the endoscopes. bacteria. Typically, such units include a basin with a cover that is selectively opened and closed to provide access to the basin. Pumps are connected to the various tubing through the endoscope to move fluid therethroug...

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