Endoscope air / water flushing joint and method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of medical devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods for air / water valves and flush valves. For example, an endoscope valve of the present disclosure may include a valve stem having continuous first and second passages and having first and second ports formed within a sidewall of the valve stem. A series of seals may be disposed proximal and distal to the first and second ports about an outer surface of the valve stem. A gating member may be slidably disposed inside the proximal channel, and a valve insert may be disposed between the proximal channel and the distal channel.

Description

(Division of 202080048492.5) Related Applications

[0001] Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 119, this application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 872,887, filed on July 11, 2019, entitled “ENDOSCOPHILIC AIR / WATER FLUSH CONNECTOR AND METHOD,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of medical devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates to medical devices, systems and methods for air / water valves and flush valves. Background Art

[0003] Endoscopes and related equipment are cleaned and / or post-processed after endoscopic procedures to prevent the spread of infection during subsequent medical procedures on different patients. The pre-cleaning step when using conventional endoscope systems involves flushing air through an air line and flushing water through a water line using a surgical endoscope valve. In some endoscope systems, the air / water surgical endoscope valve, which directs air and water from a source device through the respective air and water channels of the endoscope, is replaced by an air / water pre-cleaning valve that diverts clean water from the source device and passes it through the air and water channels to flush out any surgical debris that has entered the air or water channels. The requirement to replace the surgical valve with an air / water pre-cleaning valve requires that each valve must be individually tracked and post-processed between procedures, in addition to the additional and time-consuming step of.

[0004] Based on these considerations, a variety of beneficial medical outcomes can be achieved through the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to an endoscopic valve including a valve stem. The valve stem may include a proximal channel with a proximal opening and a distal channel with a distal opening. The proximal and distal channels may define a continuous channel. A first port may be formed inside a side wall of the valve stem and may be in fluid communication with the proximal channel. A second port may be formed inside a side wall of the valve stem and may be in fluid communication with the proximal channel. A first seal may be disposed around an outer surface of the valve stem and distal to the first port. A second seal may be disposed around an outer surface of the valve stem and distal to the second port. A third seal may be disposed around an outer surface of the valve stem and distal to the second seal. A gate member may be slidably disposed inside the proximal channel. The gate member may be configured to move between a first position in sealing contact with the first port and a second position in sealing contact with the second port. An inner cavity may extend through the gate member. A valve insert may be disposed between the proximal channel and the distal channel.

[0006] In the described and other embodiments, the modular attachment can be inserted into the proximal channel of the valve stem and can move the gate member from the first position to the second position and can move the valve insert from the first position to the second position. The valve stem can move between the first configuration and the second configuration inside the housing of the endoscope. The housing can include an air outlet formed inside the side wall of the housing. The air inlet can be formed inside the side wall of the housing and distal to the air outlet. The water outlet can be formed inside the side wall of the housing and distal to the air inlet. The water inlet can be formed inside the side wall of the housing and distal to the water outlet. In the first configuration, air can flow from the treatment system through the air inlet into the valve stem, and water can flow from the treatment system through the water inlet into the valve stem and through the water outlet. Air can flow into the atmosphere through the proximal opening of the valve stem. When the proximal opening of the valve stem is blocked, air can flow through the air outlet. The valve stem can move between the first configuration, the second configuration, and the third configuration inside the housing of the endoscope. In a first configuration, air may flow from the treatment system through the air inlet into the valve stem. When the proximal opening of the valve stem is blocked, air may flow through the air outlet. In a second configuration, water may flow from the treatment system through the water inlet into the valve stem and through the water outlet. In a third configuration, water may flow from the treatment system through the water inlet into the valve stem and through the air outlet, and water may flow from the treatment system through the water inlet into the valve stem and through the water outlet.

[0007] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to an endoscopic valve including a valve stem. The valve stem may include an open proximal end and a closed distal end. A channel may extend between the proximal end and the distal end. A first port may be formed inside the side wall of the valve stem and may be in communication with the channel fluid. A second port may be formed inside the side wall of the valve stem distal to the first port and may be in communication with the channel fluid. A third port may be formed inside the side wall of the valve stem distal to the second port and may be in communication with the channel fluid. A first seal may be disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem and proximal to the first port. A second seal may be disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem between the first port and the second port. A third seal may be disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem between the second port and the third port. A fourth seal may be disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem distal to the third port. An inner member may be movably disposed inside the channel.

[0008] In the described and other embodiments, the inner member may include an open proximal end and a closed distal end. The inner cavity may extend between the proximal end and the distal end. The first opening may be formed in the side wall of the inner member (inside), and may be in communication with the inner cavity fluid at the proximal portion of the inner member. The second opening may be formed in the side wall of the inner member, and may be in communication with the inner cavity fluid at the distal portion of the inner member. The fifth seal may be arranged around the outer surface of the inner member and the proximal side of the first opening. The sixth seal may be arranged around the outer surface of the inner member and the distal side of the fifth seal and the first opening. The seventh seal may be arranged around the outer surface of the inner member and the distal side of the sixth seal and the first opening. The eighth seal may be arranged around the outer surface of the inner member and the distal side of the seventh seal and the first opening. The ninth seal may be arranged around the outer surface of the inner member and the distal side of the eighth seal and the second opening. The expandable member may extend through the side wall of the inner member. The inner member may be configured to move the expandable member from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to an endoscope system, which includes a housing disposed within an endoscope handle. A section of tubing may extend from the endoscope handle to a processing system. An insertion tube may extend from the endoscope handle. An endoscope valve may move between a first configuration and a second configuration within the housing. The endoscope valve may include a valve stem. A first air channel and a first water channel may extend from the processing system through the section of tubing to the housing. A second air channel and a second water channel may extend from the housing through the insertion tube. In the first and second configurations, air may flow from the processing system through the first air channel into the valve stem, and water may flow from the processing system through the first water channel into the valve stem and through the second water channel. Air may flow through a proximal opening of the endoscope valve into the atmosphere. The endoscope valve may move between a first configuration, a second configuration, and a third configuration within the housing. In the third configuration, water may flow from the processing system through the first water channel into the valve stem and through the second air channel, and water may flow from the processing system through the first water channel into the valve stem and through the second water channel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure are described below by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are schematic and are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical illustrated component is generally indicated by a single numeral. For clarity, not every component is labeled in each of the drawings, nor is every component of each embodiment shown, where illustration is not necessary to allow a person skilled in the art to understand the present disclosure. In the drawings:

[0011] Figure 1A-1B Provided is an endoscope valve housing ( Figure 1B ) of the endoscope system ( Figure 1A ) perspective view.

[0012] Figure 2A-2E A perspective view of an endoscope valve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0013] Figure 3A-3D A perspective view of an endoscope valve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0014] Figure 4A-4C A perspective view of an endoscope valve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0015] Figure 5A-5E A perspective view of an endoscope valve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0016] Figure 6A-6B A perspective view of an endoscope valve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. Unless otherwise specified, all technical terms used herein have the same meanings as those generally understood by ordinary technicians in the field to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0018] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the words "include" and / or "comprise" when used herein specify the presence of stated features, regions, steps, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof.

[0019] As used herein, the term "distal" refers to the end farthest from the medical professional when an instrument is introduced into a patient, while the term "proximal" refers to the end closest to the medical professional when an instrument is introduced into a patient.

[0020] Reference Figure 1AIn one embodiment, an endoscope system may include an endoscope handle 100 that is attached to a processing system 120 via a length of tubing (segment of tubing) 126 (e.g., a universal line, an umbilical line, etc.). The processing system 120 may include an air source 122 (e.g., an air pump, etc.), a water source 124 (e.g., a fluid source, etc.), a water jet connector 134, and a suction connector 136. An insertion tube 128 (e.g., configured to be inserted into a patient) may extend from a distal portion of the endoscope handle 100. A first air channel 130a may extend from the air source 122 through the segment of tubing 126 to a housing 110 (e.g., a valve cartridge, an air / water port, etc.) within the endoscope handle 100, and a first water channel 132a may extend from the water source 124 through the segment of tubing 126 to the housing 110. The second air channel 130b may extend from the housing 110 through the insertion tube 128, and the second water channel 132b may extend from the housing 110 through the insertion tube 128. In various embodiments, the distal end of the second air channel 130b may include an opening that is continuous with the opening at the distal end of the insertion tube 128. In various other embodiments, the distal end of the second water channel 132b may be fluidly connected to the second air channel 130b proximal to the distal end of the insertion tube 128. The housing 110 may be removably attached to the endoscope handle 100 and may include a valve in some embodiments so that when attached, air, water, inhalation, or a combination thereof may be delivered to the patient and may be controlled with the respective valves.

[0021] In various embodiments, a water jet channel 135 may extend through the conduit 126 and the insertion tube 128. A first end (e.g., a proximal end) of the water jet channel may be fluidly attached to the water jet connector 134, and a second end (e.g., a distal end) of the water jet channel may include an opening that is continuous with an opening at the distal end of the insertion tube 128, for example, to deliver a water jet into a patient. In various additional embodiments, a biopsy / aspiration channel 139 may extend through the conduit 126, connect to an aspiration valve 138 inside the endoscope handle 100, and extend through the insertion tube 128. A first end (e.g., a proximal end) of the biopsy / aspiration channel 139 may be fluidly attached to the suction connector 136, and a second end (e.g., a distal end) of the biopsy / aspiration channel 139 may include an opening that is continuous with an opening at the distal end of the insertion tube 128, for example, to provide aspiration of a fluid (e.g., liquid and / or gas) inside a patient.

[0022] Reference Figure 1BIn one embodiment, the housing 110 may include an air outlet 112, an air inlet 114, a water outlet 116, and a water inlet 118 formed in (e.g., extending through) different respective portions / sections of the sidewall of the housing 110. For example, the air outlet may be proximal to the air inlet, the air inlet may be proximal to the water outlet, and the water outlet may be proximal to the water inlet. In various embodiments, the air outlet 112 may be configured to align with (e.g., fluidly connected, fluidly connected, etc.) a proximal end of a second air passage extending through the insertion tube 128, the air inlet 114 may be configured to align with a distal end of a first air passage extending through the conduit segment 126, the water outlet 116 may be configured to align with a proximal end of a second water passage extending through the insertion tube 128, and the water inlet 118 may be configured to align with a distal end of the first water passage extending through the conduit segment 126.

[0023] Reference Figure 2A-2D In one embodiment, the endoscope system of the present disclosure may include a housing 110 that may be disposed inside the endoscope handle 100 ( Figure 1A-1B ) of the endoscope valve 200 (e.g., air valve / water valve, etc.). In various embodiments, the endoscope valve 200 can be configured to move (e.g., switch) between a first configuration (e.g., surgical configuration, medical surgical configuration, etc.) and a second configuration (e.g., post-operative / post-operative pre-cleaning configuration).

[0024] Reference Figure 2A-2B In one embodiment, the endoscope valve 200 can include a valve stem 220 that defines a proximal channel 224 (e.g., a vent channel) with a proximal opening 222 and a distal channel 230 (e.g., an inner channel) with a distal opening 232. The proximal channel 224 and the distal channel 230 can be coextensive to define a continuous channel through the entire length of the valve stem 220. In various embodiments, at least a portion of the valve stem including the proximal channel 224 can extend beyond the housing 110 (e.g., outside) of the endoscope handle 100.

[0025] In one embodiment, the first port 226 (e.g., the proximal port) and the second port 228 may be formed in (e.g., extend through) different respective portions / segments of the sidewall of the valve stem 220 and in fluid communication with the proximal channel 224. The first port 226 may be generally aligned with the air outlet 112 of the housing 110, and the second port 228 may be generally aligned with the air inlet 114 of the housing 110. A first seal 234 (e.g., a one-way seal, an O-ring, a sealing member, an enlarged portion, etc.) may be disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem 220 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem) between the first port 226 and the second port 228. The second seal 236 may be located distally of the second port 228 around the outer surface of the valve stem 220 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem). A third seal 237 may be disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem 220 proximal to the distal opening 232 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem).

[0026] In various embodiments, the first seal 234 may be a one-way seal (or one-way seal) configured to sealingly contact the inner wall of the housing 110 between the air outlet 112 and the air inlet 114 and proximal to the second port 228. The second seal 236 may be configured to sealingly contact the inner wall of the housing 110 distal to the air inlet 114. Additionally or alternatively, the first seal 234 and the second seal 236 may be configured to seal the space between the housing 110 and the valve stem 220 around (e.g., 360°) the air inlet 114 of the housing 110 and the first port 226 of the valve stem 220. The third seal 237 may be configured to sealingly contact the inner wall of the housing 110 proximal to the water inlet 118 and distal to the water outlet 116 (e.g., between the water inlet 118 and the water outlet 116).

[0027] The gate member 240 can be movably (e.g., slidably, etc.) disposed in the distal portion of the proximal channel 224. The lumen 241 can extend through the entire length of the gate member, for example, to allow the flow of water / air through the lumen 241. The gate member 240 can be configured to be substantially adjacent to and in sealing contact with the first port 226 ( Figure 2A ) is moved from a first position (eg, a proximal position) to be substantially adjacent to and in sealing contact with the second port 228 ( Figure 2E , described below). In various embodiments, the sealing contact between the gating member 240 and the first port 226 or the second port 228 can block / prevent the flow of air or water, respectively, into / through the proximal channel 224 (described below).

[0028] A valve insert 242 (eg, a duckbill valve) may be disposed between (eg, at approximately the junction of) the proximal and distal channels 224, 230 and configured to move between a first (eg, closed) state and a second (eg, open) state.

[0029] Reference Figure 2B , the endoscope valve 200 is in a first configuration, e.g., not depressed within the housing 110, with the gate member 240 in a first position in sealing contact with the first port 226 and the valve insert 242 in a first (e.g., closed) state, whereby air can flow from the processing system 120 through the first air passage 130a, through the air inlet 114 of the housing and the second port 228 of the valve stem 220, through the lumen of the gate member 240 and the proximal passage 224 and through the proximal opening 222 to the atmosphere (see Figure 2B , from the air inlet 114 to the proximal opening 222). In addition, because the endoscope valve 200 is in the first configuration, the third seal 237 can sealingly contact the inner wall of the housing 110, so that water cannot flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water channel 132a, through the water inlet 118 and the water outlet 116 of the housing, and through the second water channel 132b to enter the patient. In addition, water can be prevented from flowing proximally through the distal opening 232 of the valve stem 220 and the distal channel beyond the valve insert 242 (e.g., where the valve insert 242 is in the first state) and into the proximal channel.

[0030] In one embodiment, because the endoscopic valve 200 is in the first configuration and because the proximal opening 222 of the valve stem 220 is closed (e.g., blocked / sealed by the thumb or index finger of a medical professional), air can flow from the processing system 120 through the first air passage 130a, through the air inlet 114 of the housing, along the first seal 234 (e.g., a one-way seal that blows when a threshold level of air pressure is exceeded), through the air outlet 112 and the second air passage 130b and into the patient (see Figure 2B The arrows in FIG. 2 show the air flow from the air inlet 114 to the air outlet 112 ).

[0031] Reference Figure 2C , because the endoscope valve 200 is in the second configuration, for example, pressed inside the housing 110 and the door control member 240 is in the first position, the first seal 234 can be compressed against the inner wall of the housing (e.g., an inclined or angled surface of the housing) so that air cannot flow through the first seal 234 and through the air outlet 112.

[0032] Additionally, because the endoscope 200 is in the second configuration, the third seal 237 does not sealingly contact the inner wall of the housing, allowing water to flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water channel 132a, through the water inlet 118 of the housing 110, along the outer surface of the valve stem 220 (e.g., distal to the second seal 236), through the water outlet 116 and the second water channel 132b, and into the patient (see Figure 2C , from the water inlet 118 to the water outlet 116). The second seal 236 can sealingly contact the inner wall of the housing 110 proximal to the water outlet 116 so that water does not flow proximally beyond the second seal 236 (e.g., through the air inlet 114). Water can be prevented from flowing proximally through the distal opening 232 of the valve stem 220 and the distal passage 230 beyond the closed valve insert 242 and into the proximal passage 224.

[0033] Reference Figure 2D In one embodiment, the endoscope system of the present disclosure may further include a modular attachment 250 that can be inserted into the proximal channel 224 of the valve stem 220 to move the endoscopic valve 200 from the first configuration to the second configuration. In various embodiments, the modular attachment 250 may include: a handle 252; a shaft 254 that is attached to or integrally formed with the handle 252; an engagement member 258 (e.g., a flange, etc.) that is attached to or integrally formed with the shaft 254; and a penetrating member 260 that is attached to or integrally formed with the engagement member 258. The sealing member 256 may be disposed around the outer circumference of the shaft 254 proximal to the engagement member 258. The engagement member 258 and the penetrating member 260 may each include a series of ribs disposed along the longitudinal axis of the modular attachment 250. In various embodiments, the engagement member 258 may include a cross-sectional outer dimension that is larger than the corresponding inner dimension of the inner cavity 241 of the gate control member 240, and the penetrating member 260 may include a cross-sectional outer dimension that is smaller than the outer dimensions of the engagement member 258 and the inner cavity 241 of the gate control member 240.

[0034] Reference Figure 2EAfter the medical procedure is completed, the insertion tube 128 can be removed from the patient. Then, the modular attachment 250 can be inserted into the proximal channel 224 of the valve stem 220 to move the endoscopic valve 200 from the first configuration to the second configuration. In one embodiment, the modular attachment 250 can be inserted into the proximal channel 224 of the valve stem 220 so that the distal end of the engagement member 258 contacts the proximal end of the gate member 240 to move the gate member 240 from a first position (e.g., sealing contact with the first port 226) to a second position (e.g., sealing contact with the second port 228). The penetrating member 260 can extend through the lumen 241 of the gate member 240 so that the distal end of the penetrating member 260 penetrates (e.g., passes through) through the valve insert 242 to move the valve insert 242 from a first (e.g., closed) state to a second (e.g., open) state. In various embodiments, the ribs of the engagement member 258 and the penetrating member 260 can be configured to allow water to flow along the outer surface of the modular attachment 250 and flow through the distal channel 230 and the proximal channel 224 of the valve stem 220. In addition, the seal 256 can be configured to sealingly contact the inner wall of the proximal channel 224 of the valve stem 220 proximal to the first port 226, for example, to block / prevent water from flowing proximally through the proximal channel 224 beyond the first port 226.

[0035] In one embodiment, the sealing contact between the gate member 240 and the second port 228 can block / prevent the flow of air from the treatment system 120 through the air inlet 114 into the proximal channel 224, thereby preventing / blocking the flow of air through the proximal opening 222 and / or the air outlet 112. In addition, water can flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water channel 132a, through the water inlet 118 of the housing 110, along the outer surface of the valve stem 220 (e.g., distal to the second seal 236), through the water outlet 116 and the second water channel 132b (see Figure 2E Water may also flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water passage 132a, through the water inlet 118 of the housing 110, through the distal opening 232 and distal passage 230 of the valve stem 20, through the proximal passage 224 (e.g., along the outer surface of the penetrating member 260, modular attachment 250, and shaft 254 distal to the seal 256 of the engagement member 258), through the first port 226 and through the air outlet 112 and the second air passage 130b (see FIG. Figure 2E , from the water inlet 118 to the air outlet 112). In various embodiments, when the modular attachment 250 is removed from the proximal channel 224 of the valve stem 220, the gate member 240 and the valve insert 242 can return to their respective first positions. For example, when the modular attachment is removed, the gate member can be biased (e.g., spring loaded, etc.) to return to the first position.

[0036] Reference Figure 3A-3D In one embodiment, the endoscope system of the present disclosure may include an endoscope valve 300 (e.g., an air valve / water valve, etc.), which may be disposed in the housing 110 of the endoscope handle 100 as described above ( Figure 1A-1B ). The endoscopic valve 300 may include an inner member 340 movably (e.g., slidably, etc.) disposed within the valve stem 320. In various embodiments, the inner member 340 and the valve stem 320 may be configured to move (e.g., convert) the endoscopic valve 300 between a first configuration (e.g., an air flow surgical configuration, a medical surgical configuration, etc.), a second configuration (e.g., a water flow surgical configuration, a medical surgical configuration, etc.), and a third configuration (e.g., a post-operative / post-operative pre-cleaning configuration). In one embodiment, the endoscopic valve 300 may be moved to the third configuration after completion of the medical procedure and the insertion tube 128 may be removed from the patient's interior for pre-cleaning.

[0037] In one embodiment, the valve stem 320 may include an open proximal end 322 (e.g., a proximal opening), a closed distal end 324 (e.g., a sealed distal end), and a channel 325 extending between the proximal end 322 and the distal end 324 (e.g., through the entire length of the valve stem). A first port 326 (e.g., a proximal port, a top port, etc.) may be formed in (e.g., extending through) a sidewall of the valve stem 320 and in fluid communication with the channel 325, a second port 328 (e.g., an intermediate port, a middle port, etc.) may be formed in (e.g., extending through) a sidewall of the valve stem 320 distal to the first port 326 and in fluid communication with the channel 325 (e.g., a distal port, a bottom port, etc.), and a third port (e.g., a distal port, a bottom port, etc.) may be formed in (e.g., extending through) a sidewall of the valve stem 320 distal to the second port 328 and in fluid communication with the channel 325. The first seal 332 may be disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem 320 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem) proximal to the first port 326. The second seal 334 may be disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem 320 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem), distal to the first port 326 and proximal to the second port 328 (e.g., between the first port 326 and the second port 328). In various embodiments, the second seal 334 may be a one-way seal configured to move or collapse from a sealed configuration (e.g., in contact with the inner wall of the housing 110) to an open configuration when the air pressure exceeds a threshold level. The third seal 336 surrounds the outer surface of the valve stem 320 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem) distal to the second port 328 and proximal to the third port (e.g., between the second port 328 and the third port 330). The fourth seal 338 may surround the outer surface of the valve stem 320 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem) distal to the third port.

[0038] In one embodiment, the inner member 340 may include an open proximal end 342 (e.g., a proximal opening), a closed distal end 344 (e.g., a sealed distal end), and an inner cavity 345 extending between the proximal end 342 and the distal end 344 (e.g., through the entire length of the inner member 340). A first opening 346 (e.g., a proximal opening, a top opening, etc.) may be formed in (e.g., extending through) a sidewall of the inner member 340 and in fluid communication with the inner cavity 345 at the proximal end of the valve stem, and a second opening 348 (e.g., a distal opening, a bottom opening, etc.) may be formed in (e.g., extending through) a sidewall of the inner member 340 at the distal end of the valve stem 320 distal to the first opening 346 and in fluid communication with the inner cavity 345. A fifth seal 352 may surround the outer surface of the inner member 340 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem), proximal to the first opening 346 and proximal to the first port 326 and the air outlet 112. The sixth seal 354 may be disposed around the outer surface of the inner member 340 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem), distal to the first opening 346 and the fifth seal 352, and proximal to the first port 326 and the air outlet 112 (e.g., between the first opening 346 and the second opening 348). The seventh seal 356 may be disposed around the outer surface of the inner member 340 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem), distal to the first opening 346 and the sixth seal 354 (e.g., between the first opening 346 and the second opening 348), and distal to the first port 326. The eighth seal 358 may be disposed around the outer surface of the inner member 340 (e.g., the entire circumference of the valve stem), distal to the first opening 346 and the seventh seal 356 (e.g., between the first opening 346 and the second opening 348), and proximal to the second port 328 and the air inlet 114. The ninth seal 360 may be disposed around the outer surface of the inner member 340 (eg, the entire circumference of the valve stem) distal to the second opening 348 and the eighth seal 358 and distal to the second port 328 and the air inlet 114 .

[0039] Reference Figure 3A , the endoscopic valve 300 is in a first configuration, the valve stem 320 is not depressed inside the housing 110 (e.g., the distal end of the valve stem 320 is separated from the distal end of the housing 110 by a certain distance along the longitudinal axis) and the inner member 340 is not pressed inside the valve stem 320 (e.g., the distal end of the inner member 340 is separated from the distal end of the valve stem 320 by a certain distance along the longitudinal axis).

[0040] In the first configuration, air can flow from the processing system 120 through the first air passage 130a, through the air inlet 114 of the housing 110, through the second port 328 of the valve stem 320, through the second opening 348 of the inner member 340, and through the inner cavity 345 and the open proximal end 342 of the inner member 340 to the atmosphere (see Figure 3A, flows from the air inlet 114 to the open proximal end 342). In various embodiments, the direction of air flow can be controlled by the combined sealing capabilities of the various seals. For example, the second seal 334 can block / prevent air flow through the air outlet 112 of the housing 110. The sealing contact between the fifth seal 352 and the inner surface of the passage 325 of the valve stem 320 can block / prevent proximal air flow through the first opening 346 of the inner member 340 and into the atmosphere. The sealing contact between the sixth seal 354 and the inner surface of the passage 325 of the valve stem 320 can block / prevent distal air flow through the first opening 346 of the inner member 340 and through the first port 326 of the valve stem 320 into the air outlet 112 of the housing 110. The sealing contact between the seventh seal 356 and the eighth seal 358 can block / prevent proximal air flow through the second opening 348 of the inner member and through the first port 326 of the valve stem 320 into the air outlet 112 of the housing 110. The sealing contact between the ninth seal 360 and the inner surface of the passage 325 of the valve stem 320 can block / prevent the distal air flow through the second port 328 of the valve stem 320 and into the water outlet 116 of the housing 110. The sealing contact between the first seal 332 and the inner surface of the housing 110 can block / prevent the proximal air flow through the air inlet 114 and into the atmosphere. The sealing contact between the third seal 336 and the inner surface of the housing 110 can block / prevent the distal air flow from the air inlet 114 through the third port 330 of the valve stem 320 and into the water outlet 116 of the housing 110.

[0041] Reference Figure 3B , the endoscope valve 300 is in a first configuration and the open proximal end 342 of the inner member is blocked or obstructed (e.g., by a medical professional's finger or thumb 343), thereby diverting air from exiting the atmosphere and flowing from the air inlet 114, between the housing 110 and the valve stem 320, by blowing through the second seal 334, and into the patient through the air outlet 112 and the second air passage 130b (see Figure 3B As shown by the arrows in the figure, air flows from the air inlet 114 to the air outlet 112).

[0042] Additionally, in the first configuration, although water may flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water passage 132a and through the water inlet 118 of the housing 110, water may be prevented from flowing through the water outlet 116 and the second water passage 132b due to the sealing contact between the fourth seal 338 of the valve stem 320 and the inner surface of the housing 110.

[0043] Reference Figure 3C, the endoscopic valve is in a second configuration, the valve stem 320 is pressed (e.g., moved distally) inside the housing 110 (e.g., the distal end of the valve stem 320 is in contact with or substantially adjacent to the distal end of the housing 110) and the inner member 340 is movable together with the valve stem 320 but is not pressed inside the valve stem 320 (e.g., relative to the valve stem 320) (e.g., the distal end of the inner member 340 is separated from the distal end of the valve stem 320 by a distance along the longitudinal axis).

[0044] In the second configuration, the flow of air may be blocked. For example, air may flow from the processing system 120 through the housing 110, the valve stem 320, and the inner member 340, as described above ( Figure 3A ), but the open proximal end 342 can be blocked or obstructed, such as with a medical professional's finger or thumb, to block / prevent the flow of air into the atmosphere. In addition, the sealing contact between the second seal 334 and the inner surface of the housing 110 can block / prevent the flow of proximal air from the air inlet 114, between the housing 110 and the valve stem 320, through the air outlet 112 and the second air passage 130b into the patient. In various embodiments, the sealing contact between the remaining seals (e.g., the first seal 332, the third seal 336, the fifth seal 352, the sixth seal 354, the seventh seal 356, the eighth seal 358, and the ninth seal 360) can block / prevent the flow of air and water, respectively, as previously described.

[0045] Additionally, in the second configuration, water may flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water passage 132a, through the water inlet 118 of the housing 110, through the third port 330 of the valve stem 320, through the water outlet 116 of the housing 110 and the second water passage 132b and into the patient (see Figure 3C The arrow in FIG. 2 shows the flow from the water inlet 118 to the water outlet 116). The sealing contact between the third seal 336 of the valve stem 320 and the inner surface of the housing and the sealing contact between the ninth seal 360 of the inner member 340 and the inner surface of the valve stem 320 can prevent water from flowing proximally beyond the water outlet 116.

[0046] Reference Figure 3D, the endoscope valve is in a third configuration, the valve stem 320 can be depressed (e.g., proximally advanced) inside the housing 110 (e.g., the distal end of the valve stem 320 is in contact with or substantially adjacent to the distal end of the housing 110) and the inner member 340 can be pressed down inside the valve stem 320 (e.g., the distal end of the inner member 340 is in contact with or substantially adjacent to the distal end of the valve stem 320). In one embodiment, the modular attachment 350 can be inserted (e.g., proximally advanced) into / through the proximal opening 322 of the valve stem 320 to press down (e.g., proximally advance) the inner member 340 inside the valve stem 320. In various embodiments, the modular attachment can include a tenth seal 361 configured to sealingly contact the inner surface of the channel 325 of the valve stem 320 to block / prevent water from flowing through the open proximal end 342 of the inner member 340, for example to divert water flowing through the first opening 346.

[0047] In the third configuration, air may flow from the treatment system 120 through the first air passage 130a, through the air inlet 114 of the housing 110, and through the second port 328 of the valve stem 320, but may be blocked from proximally flowing through the passage 325 of the valve stem 320, for example, by sealing contact between the seventh seal 356 and the inner surface of the passage 325; and may be blocked from distally flowing through the passage 325 of the valve stem 320 and through the second opening 348 of the inner member 340, for example, by sealing contact with the eighth seal 358. In addition, the sealing contact between the second seal 334 and the third seal 336 and the inner surface of the housing 110 may block / prevent air from flowing proximally and distally from the air inlet 114, between the housing 110 and the valve stem 320, through the air outlet 112 (e.g., using the second seal 334) and / or the water inlet 118 (e.g., using the third seal 336).

[0048] Additionally, in the third configuration, water may flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water passage 132a, through the water inlet 118 of the housing 110, through the third port 330 of the valve stem 320, through the second opening 348 of the inner member, through the water outlet 116 of the housing 110, and through the second water passage 132b (see Figure 3D As shown in the arrow in FIG. 1 , water flows from the water inlet 118 to the water outlet 116 . As described above, the sealing contact between the third seal 336 of the valve stem 320 and the inner surface of the housing 110 can prevent water from flowing proximally beyond the water outlet 116 between the housing 110 and the valve stem 320 .

[0049] Additionally, in the third configuration, water may also flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water passage 132a, through the water inlet 118 of the housing 110, through the third port 330 of the valve stem 320, through the second opening 348 and the inner cavity 345 of the inner member 340, through the first opening 346 of the inner member 340, through the first port 326 of the valve stem 320, through the air outlet 112 of the housing 110 and through the second air passage 130b (see Figure 3D , flowing from the water inlet 118 to the air outlet 112).

[0050] Reference Figure 4A-4C In one embodiment, the endoscope system of the present disclosure may include an endoscope valve 400 (e.g., an air valve / water valve, etc.) having the same Figure 3A-3C 320 and the inner member 340 are configured to have the same (or similar) elements as described above in the endoscopic valve 300 of the present invention and further include an expandable member 362 (e.g., a seal, etc.) extending through the side wall of the valve stem 320 and around the entire circumference of the valve stem 320 between the second port 328 and the third port 330. In various embodiments, when the valve stem 320 and the inner member 340 are in the first configuration ( Figure 4A ) or the second configuration ( Figure 4B ), the air and / or water flow through the endoscope valve 400 can be connected with the above Figure 3A-3C The corresponding flows of air and / or water are described separately (see Figure 4A , flowing from the air inlet 114 to the open proximal end 342 and from the air inlet 114 to the air outlet 112, and Figure 4B The arrow in the figure shows the flow from water inlet 118 to water outlet 1162).

[0051] Reference Figure 4C In the third configuration, air can be prevented from flowing proximally through the channel 325 of the valve stem 320, for example, by a sealing contact between the seventh seal 356 and the inner surface of the channel 325, and distally through the channel 325 of the valve stem 320 and through the second opening 348 of the inner member 340 can be prevented, for example, by a sealing contact with the eighth seal 358, as described above.

[0052] Additionally, in the third configuration, the inner member 340 can extend through the expandable member 362 (e.g., through an opening / orifice, not shown) to allow the expandable member 362 to move from the first configuration (e.g., Figure 4A-4B a non-expanded configuration) to a second configuration (e.g., Figure 4C). In its first configuration, the expandable member 362 does not form a sealed contact with the inner surface of the shell. In contrast, in the second configuration, the expandable member 362 may sealingly contact the inner surface of the shell 110 proximal to the water inlet 118 and distal to the water outlet 116 (e.g., between the water inlet and outlets 118, 116) to block / prevent water from flowing through the water outlet 116 of the shell 110 and through the second water channel 132b. In addition, in the second configuration, water may flow from the treatment system 120 through the first water channel 132a, through the water inlet 118 of the shell 110, through the third port 330 of the valve stem 320, through the second opening 348 and the inner cavity 345 of the inner member 340, through the first opening 346 of the inner member 340, through the first port 326 of the valve stem 320, through the air outlet 112 of the shell 110 and through the second air channel 130b (see Figure 4C The arrow in the figure shows the flow from the water inlet 11 to the air outlet 112).

[0053] Reference Figure 5A-Figure 5C In one embodiment, the endoscope system of the present disclosure may include an endoscope connector 500, which may be disposed on an endoscope handle 100 ( Figure 1A ) inside the housing 210 ( Figure 5A ).

[0054] Reference Figure 5A In one embodiment, the housing 210 may include an air outlet 212, an air inlet 214, a water outlet 216, and a water inlet 218 formed in (e.g., extending through) different respective portions / sections of the sidewall of the housing 210. For example, the air outlet may be proximal to the air inlet, the air inlet may be proximal to the water outlet, and the water outlet may be proximal to the water inlet. In various embodiments, the air and water inlets and outlets may be arranged differently, so long as they are properly aligned with their respective inlet and outlet channels of the endoscope. In various embodiments, the air outlet 212 may be configured to fluidly receive (e.g., fluidly connect to, fluidly communicate with, etc.) a proximal end of a second air channel 130b extending through the insert tube 128, the air inlet 214 may be configured to fluidly receive a distal end of a first air channel 130a extending through the duct 126 segment, the water outlet 216 may be configured to fluidly receive a proximal end of a second water channel 132b extending through the insert tube 128 and the water inlet 218 may be configured to fluidly receive a distal end of a first water channel 132a extending through the duct 126 segment.

[0055] In one embodiment, the connector 500 of the present disclosure may include a housing 521 ( Figure 5B ) and internal member 540( Figure 5C), the inner member 540 is rotatably and coaxially disposed inside the housing 521. In various embodiments, the connector 500 can be configured to move (e.g., convert) between a first configuration (e.g., a post-operative / post-operative pre-cleaning configuration), a second configuration (e.g., a post-operative / post-operative pre-cleaning configuration), a third configuration (e.g., a post-operative / post-operative pre-cleaning configuration), and a fourth configuration (e.g., a post-operative / post-operative pre-cleaning configuration) inside the housing 210.

[0056] Reference Figure 5B In one embodiment, the housing 521 may include a longitudinal axis and have a first opening 522, a second opening 524, a third opening 526, and a fourth opening 528 formed in different radial portions / segments along the longitudinal axis (e.g., extending through). For example, each opening may be offset along a different 90° radial portion along the longitudinal axis and around the entire 360° circumference of the housing 521. The first seal 530 may be disposed around the outer surface of the housing 521 (e.g., the entire circumference of the housing) proximal to the first opening 522. The second seal 532 may be disposed around the outer surface of the housing 521 (e.g., the entire circumference of the housing) distal to the first opening 522 and proximal to the second opening 524 (e.g., between the first opening and the second opening). The third seal 534 may be disposed around the outer surface of the housing 521 (e.g., the entire circumference of the housing) distal to the second opening 524 and proximal to the third opening 526 (e.g., between the second opening and the third opening). The fourth seal 536 may be disposed around the outer surface of the housing 521 (e.g., the entire circumference of the housing) distally of the third opening 526 and proximally of the fourth opening 528 (e.g., between the third opening and the fourth opening). The fifth seal 538 may be disposed around the outer surface of the housing 521 (e.g., the entire circumference of the housing) distally of the fourth opening 528.

[0057] Reference Figure 5C In one embodiment, the inner member 540 can include a port 542 (e.g., a proximal Luer port) that is attached to or integrally formed with the central member 544. A channel 545 can extend through the proximal port 542 and a portion of the central member 544. An elongated window 546 can be formed in (e.g., extending through) a sidewall of the central member and be in fluid communication with the channel 545.

[0058] In one embodiment, the housing 521 can be configured to receive a portion of the inner member 540 such that the central member 544 can extend through the longitudinal axis of the housing 521, wherein the elongated window 546 is in fluid communication with each of the first opening 522, the second opening 524, the third opening 526, and the fourth opening 528 (see Figure 5D-Figure 5E). In various other embodiments, the first seal 530 to the fifth seal 538 may be configured to sealably contact the inner surface of the housing 210 around the entire circumference of each opening 522-528 (e.g., proximal and distal). For example, the first seal 530 and the second seal 532 may be configured to sealably contact the inner surface of the housing 210 around the entire circumference of the first opening 522, the second seal 532 and the third seal 534 may be configured to sealably contact the inner surface of the housing 210 around the entire circumference of the second opening 524, the third seal 534 and the fourth seal 536 may be configured to sealably contact the inner surface of the housing 210 around the entire circumference of the third opening 526, and the fourth seal 536 and the fifth seal 538 may be configured to sealably contact the inner surface of the housing around the entire circumference of the fourth opening 528.

[0059] In one embodiment, the inner member 540 can be configured to rotate to four independent / different positions (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth configurations) within the housing 521 to align the elongated window 546 with different openings in the openings 522, 524, 526, 528, each of which is aligned with a different inlet / outlet in the air / water inlet / outlet 212, 214, 216, 218 for fluid flow through the selected flow path. For example, in the first configuration, the inner member 540 can be disposed within the housing 521 so that the first opening 522 can be substantially aligned with the elongated window 546 and in fluid communication with the air outlet 212. The second opening 524, the third opening 526, and the fourth opening 528, for example, along different 90° radial portions along the longitudinal axis of the housing 521, are not aligned with the elongated window 546, so that the air inlet 214, the water outlet 216, and the water inlet 218 are each in sealing contact with the inner wall of the housing 521. A cleaning solution (eg, water, enzyme solution, etc.) or any other fluid may then be introduced from a source (eg, syringe, etc.) attached to proximal port 542 through passage 545 and elongated window 546 and through air outlet 212 and second air passage 130b.

[0060] In various embodiments, the inner member 540 can be rotated between any / all of the four independent / different positions to align the elongated window 546 with the desired opening of the first, second, third or fourth openings and flush (e.g., pre-clean) each air / water inlet / outlet individually. For example, the inner member 540 can be rotated 90° from the first configuration to the second configuration inside the housing 521 so that the second opening 524 can be substantially aligned with the elongated window 546 and in fluid communication with the air inlet 214, and the first opening 522, the third opening 526, and the third opening 28 can be in sealing contact with the inner wall of the housing 521. Then, a cleaning liquid can be introduced from a water source attached to the proximal port 542 through the channel 545, the elongated window 546, the opening 524, and through the air inlet 214 and the first air channel 130a.

[0061] The inner member 540 can be rotated 90° from the second configuration to the third configuration ( Figure 5D ), so that the third opening 526 can be substantially aligned with the elongated window 546 and in fluid communication with the water outlet 216, and the first opening 522, the second opening 524, and the fourth opening 528 can be in sealing contact with the inner wall of the housing 521. Then, water can be introduced from a water source attached to the proximal port 542 through the channel 545, the elongated window 546, the opening 526, and flows through the water outlet 216 and the second water channel 132b.

[0062] The inner member 540 can be rotated 90° from the third configuration to the fourth configuration ( Figure 5E ), so that the fourth opening 528 can be substantially aligned with the elongated window 546 and in fluid communication with the water inlet 218, and the first opening 522, the second opening 524, and the third opening 526 can be in sealing contact with the inner wall of the housing 521. Water can then be introduced from a water source attached to the proximal port 542 through the channel 545, the elongated window 546, the fourth opening 528, and through the water inlet 218 and the first water channel 132a.

[0063] The present disclosure is not limited to a housing 521 including first openings 522, second openings 524, third openings 526, and fourth openings 528 disposed along different 90° radial portions along the longitudinal axis. By way of non-limiting example, the first openings 522, second openings 524, third openings 526, and fourth openings 528 may be disposed along a variety of different radial portions (e.g., different 15° radial portions, different 30° radial portions, different 60° radial portions, or combinations / variations thereof).

[0064] In various embodiments, the ability to switch between different configurations may allow each air / water inlet / outlet and / or first / second air / water passage to be pre-cleaned individually for a certain period of time or fluid volume as determined appropriate by a medical professional. For example, air outlet 112 and second air passage 130b may require a longer pre-cleaning step than water outlet 116 and second water passage 132b. Additionally, the ability of the connector to be fluidly attached to an independent water source may allow the pre-cleaning step to be performed independently of the treatment system, thereby allowing the treatment system to be used for additional medical procedures.

[0065] Reference Figure 6A-6B In one embodiment, the endoscope system of the present disclosure may include a connector 600 configured to fluidly attach to the suction valve 138 and the air valve / water valve 140 of the endoscope handle 100. The connector 600 may include a first recess 612 and a second recess 614, which are configured to sealingly receive / engage the outer surfaces of the suction valve and the air valve / water valve, respectively. A port 615 (e.g., a proximal Luer port) may be attached to the connector 600 or integrally formed with the connector 600. A channel 616 may extend through the port 615 and into the first recess and the second recess. The port 615 may be configured to fluidly receive a water source (e.g., a syringe, not shown). Water can then be directed from a water source (e.g., a syringe, etc.) through channel 616 into the suction valve and the air / water valve to simultaneously flush (e.g., pre-clean) the biopsy / suction channel 139 (e.g., which is fluidly connected to the suction valve) and the first air channel 130a, the first water channel 132a, the second air channel 130b, and the second water channel 132b (e.g., fluidly connected to the air / water valve, as described above). In various embodiments, the ability of the connector 600 to be fluidly attached to an independent water source can allow the pre-cleaning step to be performed independently of the treatment system, thereby allowing the treatment system to be used for other medical procedures.

[0066] In various embodiments, the connector 600 may include a single recess to deliver water through the suction valve independently of the air / water valve, or deliver water through the air / water valve independently of the suction valve.

[0067] In various embodiments, any endoscope valve 200, 300, 400 and / or connector 500, 600 of the present disclosure may also include a surface coated with a disinfectant (e.g., a detergent, an antimicrobial agent, an enzyme agent, etc.) such that water flow through the endoscope valve and / or connector can dissolve the disinfectant and deliver the disinfectant into the various air channels and water channels described above.

[0068] The present disclosure is not limited to the flow of air and water through the disclosed endoscope valves and endoscope systems, but may include a variety of biocompatible and / or inert cleaning liquids, gases, and fluids.

[0069] According to the present disclosure, all devices and / or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be completed and performed without undue experimentation. Although the devices and methods of the present disclosure have been described with preferred embodiments, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that changes can be made to these devices and / or methods and in steps or in the order of the described methods without departing from the concept, spirit and scope of the present disclosure. All similar substitutions and modifications that are obvious to those skilled in the art are considered to be within the spirit, scope and concept of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An endoscope valve, comprising Valve stem, including an open proximal end, a closed distal end, a passage extending between the proximal end and the distal end, a first port formed in a side wall of the valve stem and in fluid communication with the passage, a second port formed in the side wall of the valve stem distal to the first port and in fluid communication with the passageway, and A third port is formed in the side wall of the valve stem, is located distal to the second port and is in fluid communication with the passage, A first sealing member surrounds the outer surface of the valve stem and is located distal to the first port, A second sealing member is disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem and between the first port and the second port. A third sealing member is disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem and between the second port and the third port. a fourth sealing member disposed around the outer surface of the valve stem distal to the third port, and The inner component is movably arranged in the channel.

2. The endoscopic valve of claim 1, wherein the inner member comprises Open proximal end; Closed distal end; a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end; a first opening formed in the side wall of the inner member in fluid communication with the inner lumen at a proximal portion of the inner member; as well as A second opening formed in the side wall of the inner member is in fluid communication with the lumen at a distal portion of the inner member.

3. The endoscope valve of claim 2, wherein The inner member is adjustable within the passage between a first configuration and a second configuration, and In the second configuration, water can flow into the third port, through the lumen of the inner member, and out of the first port.

4. The endoscope valve according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising a fifth sealing member disposed around the outer surface of the inner member and located proximal to the first opening; a sixth seal disposed about the outer surface of the inner member and distal to the fifth seal and the first opening; a seventh seal disposed about the outer surface of the inner member and distal to the sixth seal and the first opening; an eighth seal disposed about the outer surface of the inner member and distal to the seventh seal and the first opening; as well as A ninth sealing member is disposed around the outer surface of the inner member and is located distally of the eighth sealing member and the second opening.

5. The endoscopic valve of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising an expandable member extending through a side wall of the valve stem between the second port and the third port.

6. The endoscope valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: an expandable member extending through a side wall of the valve stem, wherein the inner member is configured to move the expandable member from the first configuration to the second configuration, and Wherein when the expandable member is in the first configuration, the expandable member is configured not to form a seal with the inner surface of the shell, and when the expandable member is in the second configuration, the expandable member is configured to form a seal with the inner surface of the shell.

7. The endoscopic valve of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising a modular attachment insertable into a proximal opening of the valve stem communicating with the passageway to move the inner member within the valve stem.

8. An endoscope valve, comprising Valve stem, including a proximal channel having a proximal opening and a distal channel having a distal opening, the proximal channel and the distal channel defining a continuous channel, a first port formed in the sidewall of the valve stem and in fluid communication with the proximal passageway, and a second port formed in the sidewall of the valve stem and in fluid communication with the proximal passageway; and An inner member is slidably disposed within the proximal channel, wherein the inner member is configured to move between a first position for sealing the first port and a second position for sealing the second port.

9. The endoscopic valve of claim 8, wherein the inner member comprises Open proximal end Closed distal end a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end; a first opening formed in the side wall of the inner member in fluid communication with the lumen at a proximal portion of the inner member; and A second opening formed in the side wall of the inner member is in fluid communication with the lumen at a distal portion of the inner member.

10. The endoscopic valve of claim 9, wherein when the inner member is in the first position, the second opening is in fluid communication with the atmosphere through the lumen, and The valve stem includes a third port, and when the inner member is in the second position, the first port and the third port are in fluid communication through the inner cavity.

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