Endoscope comprising suction valve

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an endoscope (2) comprising: a proximal endoscope handle (4) or interface; an insertion cord (6) configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient; and a working channel (14). The endoscope handle (4) or interface comprises an aspiration valve (26) configured to control aspiration through the working channel (14) and having a valve closed state and a valve open state. The suction valve (26) includes a valve body (42) having a valve cartridge (44), an inlet (38) connected to the working passage (14), and an outlet (40) provided and configured to be connected to a suction device (P). The suction valve (26) comprises a valve stem (56) axially movable in the valve cartridge (44) at least between a first position in which the suction valve (26) is in a valve closed state and a second position in which the suction valve (26) is in a valve open state. The valve stem (56) includes a curved flow guide (78).

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an endoscope including a proximal endoscope handle or interface and an insertion cord extending from the endoscope handle or interface, the insertion cord being configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient. The endoscope further includes a suction valve mounted in the endoscope handle or interface. The present disclosure further relates to a method of assembling a suction valve of an endoscope, and a system including an endoscope and a video processing apparatus (VPA). Background of the Invention

[0003] Endoscopes and similar specialized instruments (such as bronchoscopes, arthroscopes, colonoscopes, laparoscopes, gastroscopes, and duodenoscopes) are well known in the art and are typically used for visual inspection and diagnosis of hollow organs and body cavities and to assist in surgical procedures (e.g., for sampling of target tissue). Both reusable endoscopes and disposable endoscopes are known in the art. Known endoscopes typically include: an endoscope handle or interface; an insertion cord extending from the endoscope handle or interface to be inserted into a patient's body cavity and including an insertion tube, a bending section, and a distal tip unit; and a working channel. The working channel extends from a working channel access port at the endoscope handle to the distal tip unit.

[0004] When examining an object (such as a body cavity or a hollow organ) with an endoscope, it is desirable to have a clear and good view or visibility of the object being examined. However, visibility of such an object is often affected by unwanted fluids or mucus, which may hinder visibility of the object to be examined. In addition, it may be desirable to remove tissue parts or particles during a surgical procedure, for example to extract a sample for further analysis, or to provide better visibility. Therefore, it is desirable to use a suction device (such as a vacuum pump) to remove such unwanted fluids or mucus and such tissue parts or particles.

[0005] It is desirable that the surgeon can start and interrupt suction at any time. In principle, the vacuum pump performance can be controlled for this purpose. However, this is associated with considerable delays caused by the start and shut down of the pump motor.

[0006] To overcome these disadvantages, suction valves have been built into endoscopes, with which the effect of the suction power constantly applied by the vacuum pump can be applied or turned off. A further general requirement for such a suction valve may be that the suction valve is easy and quick to operate and closes reliably and safely.

[0007] Various suction valves for endoscopes are known in the art.

[0008] In general, suction valves are known that include a housing and a piston that is movable within the housing.

[0009] For example, US 5 871 441 A discloses a suction valve, which can be connected to the working channel of an endoscope and includes a preferably cylindrical housing, a piston, a spring and a button. The piston is provided with a flow channel and is movably contained in the housing. Preferably, a button on the top of the piston is connected to the piston so that the piston can move with the button. The operator can press the button to move the piston from the valve closed state to the valve open state. The spring ensures that the valve is usually in the valve closed state, especially when the operator does not press the button. The housing is provided with an inlet opening connected to the working channel of the endoscope and an outlet opening connected to the suction device. Usually, the suction device is in a working or running state. When the valve is in the valve closed state, the circumferential outer surface of the cylindrical piston blocks the inlet opening. When the operator presses the button, the piston moves downward so that the flow channel of the piston connects the inlet opening of the housing with the outlet opening of the housing, thereby allowing the fluid to flow through the suction valve. Therefore, fluid or mucus or tissue parts and / or particles can be sucked from the working channel of the endoscope by the suction valve.

[0010] US 5 299 561 A discloses a suction valve integrated into an endoscope handle. The suction valve includes a suction button that is pressed and released by an operator to start or stop suction. When the valve is open, the volume flow flows around the valve stem, whereby the volume flow is diverted several times in the suction valve.

[0011] JP H06-70 880A discloses a suction control device for an endoscope, which includes a valve stem that can be axially moved in a valve at least between an open state and a closed state. The suction control device includes an elastic closing membrane that is pierced and opened by the valve stem when the valve is opened. Due to the piercing of the elastic membrane, an edge is formed in the open state, in which turbulence of the volume flow may occur. In addition, the suction control device has a large number of components, which makes the suction control device complex and expensive.

[0012] JP 5 552 014 B2 discloses a suction button for an endoscope, which includes a plunger that can be axially moved at least between an open state and a closed state. In the open state of the valve, the volume flow is guided through a partial recess in the plunger, whereby the volume flow is deflected at least twice in the suction button of the endoscope.

[0013] For the solutions of the related art, it is usually applicable that the fluid, mucus and tissue sucked out by the suction device are sharply deflected several times in the suction valve, which significantly reduces the volume flow, increases the load on the vacuum pump and reduces the pumping capacity and suction performance. In addition, the narrowing of the valve increases the risk of clogging, which leads to interruptions of the treatment process and thus endangers the patient's safety. In addition, the suction valves known in the related art are complex with a large number of parts, which makes the valve expensive to manufacture, which is particularly disadvantageous for using such suction valves with single-use endoscopes. Summary of the invention

[0014] Therefore, the object of the present disclosure is to overcome or at least reduce the disadvantages of the related art. More specifically, the object of the present disclosure is to provide an endoscope with a suction valve, wherein the suction valve provides an appropriate flow rate in the open state of the suction valve, reduces the risk of clogging, and is cheap and easy to manufacture.

[0015] This object is solved by an endoscope according to independent claim 1. The object is further solved by a method according to independent claim 13 and a system according to independent claim 15. Advantageous aspects and embodiments of the disclosure are claimed in the dependent claims and / or are described below.

[0016] In detail, the present disclosure relates to an endoscope, which includes: a proximal endoscope handle or interface; an insertion cord extending from the endoscope handle or interface and configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient; and a working channel, which is configured to allow fluid and mucus sucked from the body cavity of the patient to flow through the working channel. The endoscope handle or interface includes a suction valve, which is configured to control suction through the working channel and has a valve closed state and a valve open state. The suction valve includes: a valve body, which has a valve cylinder, an inlet connected to the working channel, and an outlet arranged and configured to be connected to a suction device; and a valve stem, which can be axially moved in the valve cylinder at least between a first position and a second position, in which the suction valve is in a valve closed state and in which the suction valve is in a valve open state. The inlet is connected to the valve cylinder and extends away from the valve cylinder. The outlet is connected to the valve cylinder and extends away from the valve cylinder. The valve stem includes a curved guide. The inlet, outlet and are arranged and adapted to one another so as to provide a tortuous lateral flow path for fluid and mucus through the suction valve in an open valve state.

[0017] Preferably, the curved lateral flow path is provided by an angle between a first orientation or central axis of the inlet and a second orientation or central axis of the outlet, the angle being greater than 90° and less than 180° when viewed in a cross-sectional side view of the endoscope handle in an assembled state of the suction valve in combination with the curved flow guide of the valve stem. The curved flow guide may be configured to direct fluid and mucus from the inlet to the outlet in a valve open state of the suction valve.

[0018] In other words, the present disclosure relates to an endoscope, preferably a disposable endoscope, which includes an endoscope handle or interface. In other words, the handle can be replaced by the interface. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the interface is formed on the handle. The handle may contain: necessary control elements for the endoscope, such as an operating lever for controlling the bending of the endoscope; and ports for accessories such as video processing equipment or suction devices (e.g., in the form of a vacuum pump). The handle is preferably designed in such a way that it can be ergonomically grasped and operated by a user or operator or surgeon with only one hand. This means that all important operating elements on the handle are preferably arranged in such a way that the user can operate these operating elements with one hand without having to change the position of his / her hand. The handle may include a shell. Preferably, the shell is made of plastic material. In addition, the shell preferably includes two half shells. In the case of providing a proximal endoscope interface, the endoscope interface can be prepared or provided to be connectable to, for example, a robot arm.

[0019] The endoscope further comprises an insertion cord, which preferably has a distal tip unit formed at the distal end of the insertion cord. The distal tip unit may comprise an image capture device (such as a camera) and a light emitting device (such as an LED).

[0020] In addition, the endoscope includes a working channel. The working channel is provided and configured to transport fluids, mucus and tissue parts or particles from the patient's body cavity. In addition, the working channel can be configured to guide surgical tools or instruments through the working channel to the surgical location in the patient's body. For this purpose, the working channel can have a Y-shaped connector in the handle, which allows the surgical tools or instruments to be inserted into the working channel.

[0021] The endoscope further comprises a suction valve arranged in the endoscope handle or the interface. If applicable, the suction valve described in the present disclosure may also be claimed separately.

[0022] The suction valve comprises a valve body, which may also be designated as valve housing. The valve body may be at least partially formed cylindrically and may thus be described as comprising a valve cylinder extending in an axial direction of the suction valve.

[0023] The inlet and outlet of the suction valve are preferably formed as an integral part or portion of the valve body.The inlet and outlet may substantially have the geometry of a pipe section, preferably a pipe section with a circular cross section.

[0024] The inlet and the outlet may extend away from the cylindrical outer surface of the valve cartridge of the valve body, preferably straight or linearly. When viewed in a cross-sectional side view of the endoscope handle in the assembled state of the suction valve, the orientation or center axis of the inlet may extend away from the cylindrical outer surface of the valve cartridge in both radial and axial directions. When viewed in a cross-sectional side view of the endoscope handle in the assembled state of the suction valve, the orientation or center axis of the outlet may extend away from the cylindrical outer surface of the valve cartridge in both radial and axial directions. It is also conceivable that the inlet or the outlet extends purely radially away from the valve cartridge, i.e., not axially in the axial direction of the valve cartridge.

[0025] Therefore, the inlet preferably has a first central axis or orientation. The first central axis is a virtual auxiliary axis, and when viewed in a cross-sectional side view of the endoscope handle in the assembled state of the suction valve, the first central axis extends from the center position of the inlet along the extension direction of the inlet. The inlet is provided and configured to be connected to the working channel. The inlet can be directly connected to the working channel. Alternatively, the inlet can be connected to the working channel via a suction channel, particularly preferably to a Y-shaped connector of the working channel. The working channel can be provided at least in part by a working channel tube. The suction channel can, for example, be configured as a separate hose or tube.

[0026] The outlet preferably has a second center axis or orientation. The second center axis is a virtual auxiliary axis and extends from the center position of the outlet along the extension direction of the outlet when viewed in a cross-sectional side view of the endoscope handle in the assembled state of the suction valve. The outlet is arranged and configured to be connected to a suction device. The outlet can be directly connected to the suction device. Alternatively, a hose can be arranged between the outlet and the suction device. Alternatively or additionally, at least one coupling element and / or at least one deflector element and / or at least one conduit element can be arranged between the outlet and the suction device.

[0027] The suction valve further comprises a valve stem. The valve stem is arranged in the valve body in such a way that the valve stem can move in the valve body, in particular in the valve cylinder of the valve body, in the axial direction of the suction valve. Axial movement in at least one direction can be caused by pushing a button. The button can be a button portion, which is preferably formed integrally with the rest of the valve stem at the end portion of the valve stem. Alternatively, the button can be a button element attached to the valve stem (in particular to the end portion of the valve stem), which is positioned outside the valve body at least in the closed state of the valve. The button portion or element can protrude axially from the valve body so that the user can press the button portion or element to move the valve stem axially in the valve body. The valve stem can move in the valve body in such a way that the valve stem moves the suction valve at least between the valve closed state of the suction valve in its first position and the valve open state of the suction valve in its second position. In other words, the valve stem can be configured to seal between the inlet opening and the outlet opening in the suction valve closed state, and the valve stem can be configured to enable fluid to flow between the inlet opening and the outlet opening of the valve body in the suction valve open state. In other words again, the suction valve can be configured to manually control suction through the working channel, in particular by a user pressing a button toward the housing of the endoscope. In this way, the user can easily control the suction valve and can switch between the valve closed state and the valve open state.

[0028] The suction valve (particularly its parts) can be made of plastic material or polymer. Particularly preferably, the suction valve (particularly its parts, preferably the valve body and the valve stem) can be manufactured in an injection molding process, ie can be an injection molded part.

[0029] The angle between the first center axis of the inlet and the second center axis of the outlet is preferably greater than 90° and less than 180°, so as to provide a curved lateral flow path together with the curved flow guide of the valve stem. Preferably, the angle is greater than 100°. Particularly preferably, the angle is greater than 110°. Preferably, the angle is less than 170°. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the angle is about 120°.

[0030] It is to be understood that in the formulas "greater than" and "less than", the limiting value itself is in each case not part of the claimed value range.

[0031] Furthermore, the valve stem comprises a curved flow guide. A curved flow guide is a section with a curved surface which is part of the valve stem or mounted to the valve stem. Preferably, the curved flow guide has exactly one curved surface to guide fluids and mucus and has no edges and / or discontinuities. Preferably, the curved flow guide is integrally formed with the valve stem, i.e. is an integral part or portion of the valve stem.

[0032] Providing such a suction valve in an endoscope can ensure that the fluid and mucus passing through the suction valve in the valve open state of the suction valve are deflected as little as possible, so that a suitable flow through the suction valve can be achieved. This flow advantageously reduces or even prevents obstructions in the suction valve that will interfere with surgical operations. In addition, the reduction in the number of components means that the assembly workload of the suction valve and therefore its cost are significantly reduced, which is particularly important for disposable endoscopes. In other words, in order to improve the flow through the valve, the valve stem is provided with a curved guide member, which smoothly guides the flow through the valve stem in the pressed or open state of the valve (i.e., in the valve open state) and prevents the bend-shaped blockage and flow of the existing suction valve known in the relevant art. In other words, the curved guide member, in particular the curved surface, is designed so that it provides a curved continuous transition between the inlet and the outlet in the valve open state.

[0033] In one aspect, the curved guide may include at least: a first (preferably infinitesimal) surface or portion, which is tangent to the first central axis or orientation of the inlet, i.e., parallel to the first central axis or orientation of the inlet; and a second (infinitesimal) surface portion, which is tangent to the second central axis or orientation of the outlet, i.e., parallel to the second central axis or orientation of the outlet.

[0034] In other words, the curvature of the curved guide may be configured such that the guide is oriented substantially along the direction or directions parallel to the first central axis at a first end portion facing the inlet and substantially along the direction or directions parallel to the second central axis at a second end portion facing the outlet.

[0035] Preferably, the curvature characteristics in the curved surface or curved flow guide do not change, i.e. there is no inflection point where the curvature changes sign. Particularly preferably, the curvature or radius of the curved flow guide is constant between the first end portion and the second end portion, so that a continuous transition is provided between the inlet and the outlet.

[0036] This design of the curved flow guide can redirect the flow of fluid and tissue even more evenly and with less resistance.

[0037] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the valve body of the suction valve may include a valve seat configured to circumferentially contact the sealing edge of the valve stem in the valve closed state of the suction valve, thereby blocking the flow of fluid and mucus from the inlet to the outlet. The valve seat may be inclined relative to the axial direction and radial direction of the suction valve or the valve cylinder or the valve stem. The valve seat may include a conical engagement surface that sealingly engages with the conical engagement surface of the valve stem in the valve closed state.

[0038] In other words, the valve seat may be formed on the valve body or may be formed as part of the valve body. Preferably, the valve seat and the valve body are formed as one piece. Particularly preferably, the valve seat is formed as one piece with a valve cartridge, which is a cylindrical part or portion of the valve body.

[0039] The sealing edge may be formed on the valve stem or may be formed as part of the valve stem. Preferably, the rest of the valve stem and the sealing edge are formed as one piece. The valve seat surrounds or forms a passage opening between the inlet and the outlet. In the closed state of the suction valve, i.e. in the valve closed state, the sealing edge of the valve stem contacts the valve seat and the passage through the suction valve is blocked. The valve seat may be oriented at an angle to the axial direction of the valve cartridge and at an angle to the radial direction of the valve cartridge.

[0040] By angling the valve seat in this way, the flow through the suction valve can be further improved and at the same time the installation space of the suction valve in the handle can be reduced.

[0041] The valve seat of the valve body and the sealing edge of the valve stem may taper outwardly at a sharp or acute angle to form a substantially conical sealing seat.

[0042] In other words, the sealing seat can be designed as a conical sealing seat, which does not require additional sealing members such as O-rings. The valve seat and the sealing edge can taper in one direction toward the button element or part. Preferably, the taper can be about 19°.

[0043] In other words, no O-rings, or rubber or silicone materials may be provided between the valve stem and the valve seat. The seal may be purely achieved by the valve stem and valve seat contact piece, which is made of plastic, preferably polypropylene, because polypropylene can be derived from sustainable bio-based plastics. Omitting O-rings from the flow path further improves the flow performance through the suction valve.

[0044] To improve the sealing performance of plastic to plastic seals, the valve stem and valve seat can be tapered in shape, which increases the sealing force compared to a simple flat vertical sealing surface interface. The valve stem and valve seat can taper outward at an angle of 19° relative to the longitudinal axis of the valve stem. The angle does not need to be exactly 19°.

[0045] This design can further reduce the number of components and the assembly effort, thereby reducing the costs of the suction valve, since additional sealing elements can be omitted.

[0046] In another aspect, the valve stem may include a sealing plate that may be formed at an end portion of the valve stem facing away from the button portion or element.The sealing plate may have a sealing edge on an outer edge (ie, a peripheral or outer circumferential edge) around the sealing plate.

[0047] In other words, the sealing plate can form the end portion of the valve stem. The sealing plate can include a sealing edge. In the closed state of the suction valve, i.e. in the valve closed state, the sealing plate can completely close the passage in the valve seat, taking up little installation space. Furthermore, the plate-shaped geometry of the sealing plate allows the longest possible stroke of the valve stem and thus a large opening cross section.

[0048] In another aspect, the valve stem may include a retaining hook disposed at a sealing plate of the valve stem in a direction facing away from a button portion or element of the valve stem.

[0049] The retaining hook or at least a portion of the retaining hook may extend beyond the sealing plate in a radially outward direction.

[0050] The retaining hook may be an integral part formed integrally with the valve stem.

[0051] In other words, the valve stem may include a retaining hook formed as a barb. The retaining hook may be elastically formed on the sealing plate so that the valve stem can be easily pushed through the valve seat in the assembly direction. In the disassembly direction directly opposite to the assembly direction, the retaining hook hooks on the valve seat and prevents the valve stem from being pulled out of the valve body. The retaining hook may preferably be V-shaped.

[0052] On the other hand, the valve seat of the valve body can be made of an elastic material or be elastically mounted. The elastic valve seat allows the valve stem to be installed into the valve body in a push-through manner.

[0053] In other words, the valve seat may be formed as an elastic member that is elastically deformable in a radially outward direction to allow an object having a diameter slightly larger than that of the valve seat to pass through the valve seat, and after the object passes through, the valve seat elastically returns to its original shape.

[0054] This configuration of the valve seat allows the suction valve to be assembled in a simple manner. In particular, the suction valve can be assembled by inserting or sliding the valve stem into the valve body, which significantly reduces the assembly workload of the suction valve and thus reduces the cost of the suction valve. In addition, the valve body and the valve stem can be formed at least to a large extent as one piece, which reduces the manufacturing and assembly costs. Similarly, the retaining hook can be formed as an elastic resilient part, which can be compressed during the insertion of the valve cartridge during assembly and "pop out", i.e. decompressed, after passing the valve seat.

[0055] On the other hand, the suction valve may include a valve spring, which may be arranged between the valve body and the valve stem so as to force the suction valve into a closed state and to keep the suction valve in the closed state. The valve spring may have at least one bypass hole, which allows ambient air to be sucked through the valve when the suction valve is closed, i.e. in the valve closed state. The valve spring may be a part separate from the valve stem or the valve body. Alternatively, the spring may be a preferably elastic integral part of the valve body or the valve stem. It should be added that the spring does not necessarily have to be provided. In particular, the valve stem can be manually moved between at least the first position and the second position without being preloaded by the spring towards one of the positions.

[0056] The valve spring may radially surround at least one region or portion between the button element or portion and the valve body. However, embodiments are also conceivable in which the valve spring is formed in the button and / or in the valve stem and / or in a surrounding sleeve. The valve spring may be made of an elastic material, preferably rubber. The spring may include at least one, preferably two, bypass holes.

[0057] By forming a bypass hole, damage to the vacuum device and / or endoscope can be prevented when the valve is closed. The rubber valve spring makes the suction valve easy to install because the valve spring can be installed on the valve stem and valve body without tools. In addition, the valve spring in this design can protect the suction valve in a way that prevents contaminants from entering the gap between the valve stem and the valve body.

[0058] Preferably, the valve spring can be installed in the suction valve in such a way that the valve spring is preloaded.

[0059] In other words, the valve spring can be installed in the suction valve in a slightly compressed state, so that when no actuating force acts on the suction valve from the outside (for example, from an operator), the valve spring uses the pre-tensioning force to press the sealing edge of the valve stem into the valve seat, thereby increasing the tightness of the suction valve.

[0060] In another aspect, the valve spring may be configured to form a bellows shape in a compressed state of the valve spring, thereby closing the bypass hole(s).

[0061] In other words, the valve spring can form at least one fold in the compressed state of the spring, so that the bypass opening is closed by the spring itself.

[0062] By configuring the spring in this manner, the number of components of the suction valve can be further reduced.

[0063] In another aspect, the valve stem may include a stopper that may be configured to contact the valve body and prevent over-depression of the suction valve.

[0064] In other words, the valve stem may include a stop, preferably in the form of at least one rib, which may extend in a radial direction of the valve stem. If the button is pressed too hard, the stop contacts the valve body so that the valve stem cannot be pressed further into the valve body. Furthermore, the stop may ensure that the valve stem and the flow guide are positioned in a preconfigured position for achieving an optimal flow in the suction valve.

[0065] Due to the integrated design of the stopper and the valve stem, the number of components of the suction valve can be further reduced, which further reduces the assembly workload and thus reduces the assembly cost of the suction valve.

[0066] On the other hand, the valve stem may include a recess, which extends at least partially orthogonally or perpendicularly to the axial direction of the valve stem, wherein, in the open state of the suction valve, i.e. in the valve open state, the recess connects the input part and the output part to each other, and wherein the recess includes a curved guide piece of the valve stem.

[0067] In other words, the recess may be formed on or in the valve stem so as to connect the inlet to the outlet in the open state of the suction valve. The recess may be configured in such a way that at least a portion of the recess is formed perpendicularly to the axial extension of the valve stem. The recess may preferably be formed as a through hole through the valve stem. Alternatively, the recess may be a recess located on one side of the valve stem. The curved guide may be formed in or on the recess. In other words, a surface or a section of the valve stem that defines the recess may be formed as a curved guide.

[0068] By means of such a recess in or on the valve stem, the suction valve can be designed to be more compact and the volume flow through the suction valve can be increased.

[0069] In another aspect, the valve body and the valve stem may each be integrally formed from a plastic material, preferably polypropylene.

[0070] In other words, the valve body and / or the valve stem are preferably made of a thermoplastic polymer, such as polypropylene (PP), in particular biodegradable polypropylene, polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM), etc. However, other polymer materials or other materials are also conceivable.

[0071] On the other hand, the suction valve can be compatible with a working channel inner diameter of 1.2 mm to 3.8 mm, which means that a ball with a diameter of 3.8 mm or larger is preferably able to pass through the suction valve in the activated position of the suction valve (i.e., in the valve open state).

[0072] In other words, the recess in the valve stem may have a cross-sectional area of ​​at least 3.8 mm.

[0073] On the other hand, the suction valve may further comprise a valve end cap which is preferably ultrasonically welded to the valve body, which avoids gluing which may be a labor-intensive process. In an alternative embodiment, the valve end cap may be made integrally with the valve body. However, embodiments in which the cap is glued to the valve body are also conceivable. This is particularly conceivable if the material of the valve body is not polypropylene.

[0074] In another aspect, the valve body may be provided with a guide slot or groove for guiding a corresponding pin of the valve stem to ensure a straight up-and-down or axial movement of the valve stem in the valve body or a valve cylinder of the valve body when the suction valve is actuated.

[0075] In another aspect, the valve spring may preferably feature a small ridge for sealing against the valve body.

[0076] Furthermore, in another aspect, the valve spring may also serve as a movement stop for the valve stem displacement, ie, when the spring is fully compressed it may serve as a stop and may feature a raised stop.

[0077] On the other hand, in a top view, ie in a viewing direction corresponding to the axial direction of the valve body and the valve stem, the inlet and the outlet may be arranged at an angle of less than 180° to each other.

[0078] The present disclosure further relates to a method of assembling a suction valve of an endoscope as described above, the suction valve comprising a valve body, a valve stem and a valve spring, the valve body having a resilient valve seat, the method comprising the following steps:

[0079] - Attach the valve spring to the valve stem;

[0080] - Push the valve stem into the valve body;

[0081] - allowing the valve seat of the valve body to bend elastically along with the valve stem; and

[0082] - Position the valve spring on the valve body.

[0083] In other words, the object of the present disclosure is also solved by a method of assembling a suction valve.Preferably, the endoscope is a single-use endoscope.

[0084] In a first step, the valve spring is attached to the valve stem.The valve spring can be attached to the valve stem, for example, in that a clamping edge of the valve spring is elastically pulled and the clamping edge is inserted into a receiving groove formed on the valve stem.

[0085] In a second step, the valve stem can be inserted into the valve body through an opening in the valve body. The insertion is performed in the actuation direction of the valve stem, ie in the direction in which the valve stem can move within the valve body of the suction valve.

[0086] In the third step, the valve stem elastically bends the valve seat located inside the valve body, preferably radially outwards. In other words, the valve stem widens the valve seat to such an extent that the valve stem or a section of the valve stem, preferably a section of the valve stem having a sealing edge, can be pushed through or past the valve seat. When the section of the valve stem has passed the valve seat, the valve seat quickly returns to its predetermined shape.

[0087] In the fourth step, the valve spring or the section of the valve spring is pulled through the valve body so that the valve spring is fixed to the valve body. For this purpose, the valve spring can be elastically expanded and then retracted on the valve body.

[0088] This method allows the suction valve to be assembled without any tools, which reduces the assembly workload and thus reduces the manufacturing cost of the suction valve.

[0089] In one aspect, the valve stem may include a retaining hook, and the method may further include the steps of:

[0090] - Allow the retaining hook of the valve stem to pass through the valve seat;

[0091] This step is after the step of pushing the valve stem into the valve body.

[0092] In other words, the valve stem may further include a retaining hook, which is preferably formed on a portion of the valve stem that is first inserted into the valve body. The retaining hook is elastically mounted on the valve stem and acts as a barb that prevents the valve stem from being pulled out of the valve body once the retaining hook has passed the valve seat. The retaining hook ensures that the suction valve will not disassemble itself even in the event of improper operation or rough manipulation.

[0093] In yet another way, the valve can be assembled by attaching the valve spring to the valve stem and pushing the valve stem into the valve body until the bottom of the valve stem, including the retaining hook, passes the valve seat. The valve seat is somewhat flexible and flexes as the valve stem is pushed through. As the valve stem is pushed through the valve body and past the valve seat, the retaining hook is compressed, after which the retaining hook expands, thereby forming a backup hard stop that prevents the valve stem from being pulled back past the valve seat. Before the retaining hook acts, the sealing edge of the valve stem engages the valve seat itself to prevent the valve stem from being pulled past the valve seat in the first step. The valve spring is positioned on the valve body.

[0094] In another aspect, the valve stem may include a guide pin and the valve body may include a guide slot or groove, and the method may include the steps of:

[0095] - Insert the guide pin of the valve stem into the guide groove;

[0096] Preferably, this is immediately prior to or simultaneous with the step of pushing the valve stem into the valve body.

[0097] The present disclosure further relates to a system comprising an endoscope according to one of the above aspects, and a video processing device (VPA) that can be connected to the endoscope and can output real-time images recorded by the image sensor of the endoscope on a display. The video processing device may include a built-in display and / or a detachable display, and / or may be connectable to an external display. The video processing device may be a video processing device that shows images or videos captured by an image capture device arranged at a distal end unit.

[0098] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a system which may also be independently claimed for protection, comprising: the endoscope described above, wherein the system further comprises a suction device which may be connected directly or indirectly (e.g. via a hose) to an outlet of a valve body of a suction valve.

[0099] The suction device may be a vacuum pump etc. There are also conceivable embodiments in which the suction device is directly coupled to the endoscope or is part of the endoscope. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0100] The present disclosure is explained in more detail below using preferred embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0101] Figure 1 A side view of an endoscope, video processing equipment, and suction device according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0102] Figure 2 A perspective view of a half shell of an endoscope handle with a suction valve is shown.

[0103] Figure 3 The suction valve installed in the half-shell is shown in an enlarged side view.

[0104] Figure 4 The suction valve is shown in a cross-sectional view in the closed state.

[0105] Figure 5 The suction valve is shown in a cross-sectional view in the open state.

[0106] Figure 6 The suction valve is shown in a sectional perspective view in the closed state.

[0107] Figure 7 The valve seat of the suction valve is shown in an enlarged view in the closed state.

[0108] The drawings are schematic in nature and are only useful for understanding the present disclosure. Features of the different embodiments may be interchanged with each other.

[0109] Reference numerals list

[0110] 2 Endoscope

[0111] 4 Endoscope handle

[0112] 6 Insert the cord

[0113] 8 Insertion tube

[0114] 10 Bending section

[0115] 12 Distal terminal unit

[0116] 14 Working channels

[0117] 16 Working channel access port

[0118] 18 Working channel tube

[0119] 20 Operating units

[0120] 22 Y-connector

[0121] 24 Connecting cables

[0122] 24a Electrical connector

[0123] 26 Suction valve

[0124] 28 Suction button

[0125] 30 Suction channel

[0126] 32 Vacuum port

[0127] 34 Hose

[0128] 36 Half Shell

[0129] 38 Entrance

[0130] 40 Exit

[0131] 42 Valve body

[0132] 44 Valve cartridge

[0133] 46 Fixed protrusion

[0134] 48 End cap

[0135] 50 Valve spring

[0136] 52 Side surface

[0137] 54 Bypass hole

[0138] 56 Valve stem

[0139] 58 Button Section

[0140] 60 Braking part

[0141] 62 Clamping edge

[0142] 64 Sealing protrusion

[0143] 66 Shaft section

[0144] 68 Guide pin

[0145] 70 grooves / slots

[0146] 72 stopper

[0147] 74 Piston part

[0148] 76 Through Holes

[0149] 78 Bend guide

[0150] 80 First Edge

[0151] 82 The Second Edge

[0152] 84 Sealed Edges

[0153] 86 Sealing plate

[0154] 88 Valve seat

[0155] 90 Holding Hook

[0156] 92 Bypass channel

[0157] T1 first tangent

[0158] T2 Second tangent

[0159] M Center axis of valve cylinder

[0160] α First angle

[0161] β Second angle

[0162] A1 First central axis

[0163] A2 Second central axis

[0164] P Suction pump

[0165] VPA Video Processing Equipment DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0166] Figure 1A side view of an endoscope 2 according to the present disclosure is shown, which is preferably a single-use endoscope. The endoscope 2 includes: a proximal endoscope handle 4 and an insertion cord 6 extending distally from the endoscope handle 4. The insertion cord 6 is configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient, and the insertion cord includes an insertion tube 8, a bending section 10, and a distal tip unit 12. The endoscope 2 further includes a working channel 14, which extends from a biopsy port or a working channel access port 16 provided at the endoscope handle 4 to the distal tip unit 12. The working channel 14 includes a working channel tube 18 (at Figure 2 ), the working channel tube is arranged inside the endoscope handle 4, the insertion tube 8 and the bending section 10. The endoscope handle 4 includes an operating unit 20, which is formed as an operating lever for bending the bending section 10 of the insertion cord 6. The working channel tube 18 and the working channel access port 16 are connected via a Y-shaped connector 22. The endoscope 2 can be connected to the video processing device VPA (schematically shown) via a connecting cable 24, which includes an electrical connector 24a that can be inserted into a socket (not shown) of the video processing device VPA. Alternatively, the endoscope 2 can be wirelessly connectable to the video processing device VPA, for example via a wireless HDMI connection.

[0167] When a surgical instrument or tool is inserted into working channel 14 , the surgical instrument or tool is inserted into working channel access port 16 and guided into working channel tube 18 through Y-connector 22 .

[0168] The endoscope 2 further includes a suction valve 26 having a suction button 28 formed on the handle 4 and configured to control the suction power through the working channel 14 of the endoscope 2. The suction valve 26 is connected to a suction channel 30 and a vacuum port 32 that protrudes from or is embedded in the handle 4 (e.g., Figure 2 The endoscope 2 may be connected to a suction pump P (shown schematically) via a hose 34 which may be connected to a vacuum port 32 of the endoscope 2.

[0169] Figure 2 The handle 4 is shown in an open state. Specifically, the handle 4 is basically formed by two half shells 36 forming a housing of the handle, and Figure 2 In the embodiment, one of the two half-shells 36 is removed, and for the sake of clarity and understandability of the present disclosure, all other elements of the endoscope 2 that are not necessary for understanding the present disclosure are not shown. Figure 2 It should be understood that all other mechanical components, optical components, and electronic components formed in the handle 4 in a conventional endoscope are located or can be formed in the endoscope 2 of the present disclosure.

[0170] The suction channel 30 connects the suction valve 26 (which is mounted between the two half shells 36 at the proximal end portion of the handle 4) to the Y-shaped connector 22 and extends in the longitudinal direction of the handle 4, that is, substantially in the direction of the continuation of the insertion cord 6. The suction valve 26 includes an inlet 38, which is configured to be connected to the suction channel 30. In other words, the inlet 38 is configured to be connected to a connector of the suction channel 30. The suction channel 30 has a tubular shape and can be in the form of an elastic tube or a rigid pipe. The suction valve 26 further includes an outlet 40 that can be connected to the vacuum port 32. In other words, the outlet 40 is configured to be connected to a connector of the vacuum port 32.

[0171] In the following, reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The external structure of the suction valve 26 is explained in more detail. Figure 3 FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the suction valve 26 in an assembled state, wherein the suction passage 30 and the vacuum port 32 are not in the Figure 3 Shown in.

[0172] The suction valve 26 includes a valve body 42 including a valve cylinder 44 extending in the axial direction of the suction valve 26. The valve body 42 further includes an inlet 38 and an outlet 40. The inlet 38 and the outlet 40 each have a substantially tubular geometry having a substantially circular cross-sectional configuration. Figure 3 As can be seen in the side view of the endoscope handle in the assembled state of the suction valve, the inlet 38 has a first center axis A1 and the outlet 40 has a second center axis A2. The first center axis A1 extends along the extension direction of the inlet 38 at the center position of the inlet 38. The second center axis A2 extends along the extension direction of the outlet 40 at the center position of the outlet 40. A first angle α is enclosed between the first center axis A1 and the second center axis A2. The first angle α is greater than 90° and less than 180°. Preferably, the angle is greater than 110°. Particularly preferably, the angle is about 120°.

[0173] The valve body 42 is integrally formed of a plastic material, preferably polypropylene. Furthermore, the valve body 42 comprises fixing projections 46 formed thereon, which are configured to fix the suction valve 26 in the handle 4 between the half-shells 36.

[0174] The suction valve 26 further includes an end cap 48 formed on an end portion of the valve cylinder 44 facing the interior of the handle 4 and closing the valve cylinder 44. Specifically, the end cap 48 closes the substantially circular bottom opening of the valve body 42. The end cap 48 and the valve body 42 are welded together. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the end cap 48 may be fixed in place by adhesive bonding or by a latching action.

[0175] The valve spring 50 is formed on the end portion of the valve cylinder 44 opposite to the end cap 48. The valve spring 50 mostly protrudes from the handle 4 and ensures that the suction valve 26 is maintained in the initial valve closed state or returns to the initial valve closed state without user actuation. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The specific operation of the valve spring 50 is explained in more detail. A bypass hole 54 is formed in the side surface 52 of the valve spring 50. The bypass hole 54 allows ambient air to be drawn through the suction valve 26 into the outlet 40 in the closed state of the suction valve (i.e., in a state in which the volume flow from the inlet 38 to the outlet 40 is blocked).

[0176] Figure 4 The suction valve 26 is shown in a cross-sectional view in a state in which the suction valve 26 is closed. Figure 5 The suction valve 26 is shown in a cross-sectional view in a state in which the suction valve 26 is open. Figure 6 The suction valve 26 is shown in a cross-sectional view in a state where the suction valve 26 is closed. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The internal structure of the suction valve 26 is explained.

[0177] The valve stem 56 is arranged in the valve cylinder 44 of the suction valve 26. The valve stem 56 is configured to be axially displaceable or movable in the valve cylinder 44 along the axial direction or the center axis M of the valve cylinder 44, thereby opening and closing the suction valve 26. Specifically, the valve stem 56 includes a button portion 58. The button portion 58 is the portion of the valve stem 56 that protrudes farthest from the housing of the endoscope handle 4 and forms a planar push portion that is oriented orthogonal to the longitudinal extension or axial direction of the valve stem 56; and the button portion is configured to be pushed by an operator to move the valve stem 56 along the axial direction or the center axis M in the valve cylinder 44. The button portion 58 is surrounded by the valve spring 50 in the circumferential direction. The button portion 58 and the valve spring 50 form a suction button 28 protruding from the handle 4.

[0178] The detent portion 60 is formed adjacent to the button portion 58. The button portion 58 and the detent portion 60 are formed to receive a clamping edge 62 of the valve spring 50 therebetween. The valve spring 50 is made of an elastomeric material and is therefore clamped between the button portion 58 and the detent portion 60. The detent portion 60 is substantially rib-shaped and extends parallel to the button portion 58 in a radially outward direction relative to the axial direction of the valve stem 56. At the end of the valve spring 50 facing away from the button portion 58, that is, at a connecting section 62 of the valve spring 50 facing the valve cartridge 44, the valve spring 50 radially surrounds the valve cartridge 44. Here, the valve spring 50 is tightly clamped on the valve cartridge 44 due to its elastic properties. The valve spring 50 is formed with a circumferential sealing protrusion 64, which circumferentially contacts and seals the opening edge of the valve cartridge 44.

[0179] The valve stem 56 includes a shaft portion 66 extending from the button portion 58 into the valve cylinder 44. The shaft portion 66 has a substantially plate-like shape.

[0180] Guide pins 68 are formed in the width direction of the shaft portion 66, and these guide pins slide in grooves 70 formed in the inner wall of the valve cylinder 44 to prevent the valve stem 56 from rotating relative to the valve cylinder 44. In addition, a stopper 72 is formed on the shaft portion 66. The stopper 72 is oriented in parallel with the button portion 58 and the brake portion 60 and prevents the valve stem 56 from being over-pressed relative to the valve body 42. The stopper 72 (like the brake portion 60) is formed as a type of rib. Here, over-pressing means that the portion of the valve stem 56 facing away from the button portion 58 is pressed against the end cap 48 or in contact with the end cap.

[0181] In addition, the valve stem 56 includes a piston portion 74. The piston portion 74 is formed at the end of the shaft portion 66 opposite to the button portion 58. The piston portion 74 includes a through hole 76. The through hole 76 penetrates the piston portion 74 substantially in a direction orthogonal or perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve stem 56. The through hole 76 is provided and configured to be opened in the actuated state of the suction valve 26 (e.g., Figure 5 The inlet 38 and the outlet 40 of the suction valve 26 are connected below (as shown).

[0182] The through hole 76 includes a curved guide 78 on a wall portion or as a wall portion, in particular on a wall portion or wall surface oriented toward the button portion 58. The curved guide 78 is configured to redirect the flow from the inlet 38 to the outlet 40 as uniformly as possible. The curved guide 78 has no edges within the surface of the curved guide 78 and has a substantially uniform curvature or a uniformly varying curvature. Figure 5 Specifically shown are the inlet 38 , outlet 40 and curved flow guide 78 of the valve stem 56 arranged and adapted to one another to provide a tortuous lateral flow path for fluid and mucus through the suction valve 26 in the valve open state.

[0183] At a first edge 80 of the curved guide 78 facing the inlet 38, the curvature of the curved guide 78 is such that a first tangent line T1 of the curved guide 78 is oriented parallel to the first center axis A1. At a second edge 82 of the curved guide 78 facing the outlet 40, the curvature of the curved guide 78 is such that a second tangent line T2 of the curved guide 78 is oriented parallel to the second center axis A2.

[0184] The piston portion 74 further includes a circumferential sealing edge 84 formed on a sealing plate 86, which forms an end portion of the valve stem 56 facing away from the button portion 58 and delimits the through hole 76. The sealing plate 86 is configured to cut off the flow through the suction valve 26. Specifically, the sealing plate 86 is configured to be seated in the valve seat 88 in the closed state of the suction valve 26, wherein the sealing edge 84 seals against the valve seat 88.

[0185] The valve seat 88 is formed in the valve cartridge 44. In particular, the valve seat 88 is integrally formed with the valve cartridge 44 from the same material. The valve seat 88 and therefore also the sealing plate 86 having the sealing edge 84 are oriented obliquely relative to the axial direction or the center axis M. The second angle β formed between the valve seat 88 and the center axis M is less than 90°. The valve seat 88 is elastic. This means that the valve seat 88 can expand in an elastic manner and then elastically return to its predetermined shape. The valve seat 88 and the sealing plate 86 having the sealing edge 84 are formed from the same material. In other words, the seal between the valve seat 88 and the sealing edge 84 is a seal between the same material, in particular plastic, preferably polypropylene. The sealing plate 86 is pressed into the valve seat 88 with a preload force. In other words, the valve spring 50 is in a state where the valve seat 8 ... Figure 4 The suction valve 26 shown in the closed state is preloaded so that the valve spring 50 uses the preload force to press the sealing plate 86 with the sealing edge 84 into the valve seat 88 and keeps the suction valve 26 closed in the closed state (i.e., when the operator does not operate the suction valve 26).

[0186] The retaining hook 90 is formed on the surface of the sealing plate 86 facing away from the through hole 76. The retaining hook 90 is formed as an elastic barb that prevents the valve stem 56 from being pulled out of the valve cylinder 44. Specifically, when the sealing edge 84 of the sealing plate 86 overcomes the valve seat 88, the retaining hook 90 is latched onto the valve seat 88.

[0187] Figure 7 An enlarged view of the sealing plate 86 in the valve seat 88 is shown. The valve seat 88 and the sealing edge 84 are both tapered in the direction toward the through hole 76. In other words, the valve seat 88 and the sealing edge 84 are conical valve seats 88 and conical sealing edges 84, which are inclined at a third angle to increase the sealing effect of the suction valve 26, and the third angle is preferably 19°. 19° should be understood here as an example. Of course, other angles are also possible.

[0188] Hereinafter, the function of the suction valve 26 is briefly described with reference to the drawings.

[0189] A suction pump P is connected to the vacuum port 32 via a hose 34 and creates a vacuum / suction force at the outlet 40. The suction valve 26 is in Figure 4In other words, the sealing plate 86 having the sealing edge 84 is seated in the valve seat 88 of the valve cylinder 44 by the preload force applied by the valve spring 50. In the closed state of the suction valve 26, the suction pump P draws air from the environment. The air is drawn into the suction valve 26 from the environment through the bypass hole 54 in the valve spring 50 and reaches the outlet 40 via the bypass channel 92 formed in the inner wall of the valve cylinder 44. This effectively prevents the suction pump P from working against a large resistance in the closed state of the suction valve 26, which may damage the suction pump P and / or the endoscope 2.

[0190] Now, when the operator starts the suction function of the endoscope 2, that is, when the operator's finger presses the button portion 58 of the valve stem 56 hard enough to overcome the spring force of the valve spring 50, the valve stem 56 slides or moves in the valve cylinder 44. The valve stem 56 is guided in the groove 70 via the pin 68. In this process, the sealing plate 86 with the sealing edge 84 leaves the valve seat 88 and opens the through hole 76. Specifically, the through hole 76 is axially displaced together with the valve stem 56 in the valve cylinder 44, so that the through hole 76 now connects the outlet 40 to the inlet 38 of the suction valve 26. The suction force of the suction pump P can be transmitted to the working channel 14 via the suction channel 30, and the patient's fluid and mucus can be sucked out or drawn out. In the suction valve 26, the fluid and mucus are deflected only once through the curved guide 78, so that clogging of the suction valve 26 can be prevented. The fluid and mucus are diverted through the curved guide 78 as evenly and gently as possible. The defined angle between the inlet 38 and the outlet 40 may further reduce the risk of clogging and may be gently diverted by the curved guide 78 .

[0191] Pressing the button portion 58 causes the valve spring 50 to fold like a bellows (see Figure 5 ). The two inner sections of the valve spring 50 come into contact in such a way that they are sealingly located on top of each other and close the bypass hole 54. The stopper 72 gives the operator a sense of security that the suction valve 26 is fully open. In addition, the stopper 72 prevents over-pressing, so that the operator can fully press the button portion 58 without risk and without thinking.

[0192] When the operator wants to interrupt or stop suction, he simply releases the button portion 58, and the spring force of the valve spring 50 moves the valve stem 56 axially through the valve cylinder 44 until the sealing plate 86 with the sealing edge 84 is seated in the valve seat 88 again and the suction valve 26 is closed. This automatically prevents the elastic valve spring 50 from folding and opens the bypass hole 54, so that the suction pump P sucks in ambient air.

Claims

1. An endoscope (2), comprising: A proximal endoscope handle (4) or port; an insertion cord (6) extending from the endoscope handle (4) or interface and configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient; a working channel (14) configured to allow fluid and / or mucus drawn from a body cavity of the patient to flow through the working channel; The endoscope handle (4) or interface comprises: a suction valve (26) configured to control suction through the working channel (14) and having a valve closed state and a valve open state; The suction valve (26) comprises: A valve body (42) having: a valve cylinder (44); an inlet (38) connected to the working channel (14); and an outlet (40) disposed and configured to be connected to a suction device (P); and A valve stem (56) is axially movable in the valve cylinder (44) between at least a first position and a second position, wherein the suction valve (26) is in a valve closed state at the first position and the suction valve (26) is in a valve open state at the second position; wherein: The inlet (38) is connected to the valve cylinder (44) and extends away from the valve cylinder. The outlet (40) is connected to the valve cylinder (44) and extends away from the valve cylinder. The valve stem (56) includes a curved flow guide (78), and The inlet (38), the outlet (40) and the curved flow guide (78) are arranged and adapted to one another so as to provide a curved lateral flow path for the fluid and / or mucus through the suction valve (26) in the valve open state.

2. The endoscope (2) according to claim 1, wherein: The curved lateral flow path is provided by a curved guide member (78) of the valve stem (56) in combination with an angle (α) between a first orientation or center axis (A1) of the inlet (38) and a second orientation or center axis (A2) of the outlet (40), the angle being greater than 90° and less than 180° when viewed in a side view of the endoscope handle (4) or the interface in an assembled state in which the suction valve (26) is assembled into the endoscope handle (4) or the interface.

3. The endoscope (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The valve body (42) of the suction valve (26) includes a valve seat (88) which is configured to be in circumferential contact with the sealing edge (84) of the valve stem (56) in the valve closed state of the suction valve (26), thereby blocking the flow of fluid and mucus from the inlet (38) to the outlet (40).

4. The endoscope (2) according to claim 3, wherein: The valve seat (88) of the valve body (42) and the sealing edge (84) of the valve stem (56) taper at an acute angle to form a substantially conical sealing seat.

5. The endoscope (2) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The valve stem (56) includes a sealing plate (86) formed at an end portion of the valve stem (56), with a sealing edge (84) of the sealing plate (86) being on an outer edge surrounding the sealing plate (86).

6. The endoscope (2) according to any one of the preceding claims 3 to 5, wherein: The valve stem (56) includes a retaining hook (90) which can be pushed through the valve seat (88) when the valve stem (56) is assembled into the valve body (42), and when the valve stem (56) is pulled in a disassembly direction opposite to the assembly direction, the retaining hook is hooked on the valve seat (88), thereby preventing the valve stem (56) from being pulled out of the valve body (42).

7. The endoscope (2) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein: The valve seat (88) of the valve body (42) is made of a resilient material or is resiliently mounted, thereby allowing the valve stem (56) to be assembled into the valve body (42) in a push-through manner.

8. The endoscope (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The suction valve (26) includes a valve spring (50) formed between the valve body (42) and the valve stem (56), the valve spring (50) being configured to push the valve stem (56) to the first position, in which the suction valve (26) is in the valve closed state, wherein the valve spring (50) has at least one bypass hole (54), the at least one bypass hole allowing ambient air to be sucked through the suction valve (26) in the valve closed state.

9. The endoscope (2) according to claim 8, wherein: The valve spring (50) is configured to form a bellows shape in a compressed state of the valve spring (50), thereby closing the bypass hole (54).

10. The endoscope (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The valve stem (56) includes a stopper (72) configured to contact the valve body (42) and prevent over-pressing of the valve stem (56).

11. The endoscope (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The valve stem (56) comprises a recess (76) which extends perpendicularly to the axial direction of the valve stem (56) at least in some sections, wherein the recess (76) connects the input part (38) and the output part (40) to each other in the open state of the valve, and wherein the recess (76) comprises the curved flow guide (78).

12. The endoscope (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The valve body (42) and the valve stem (56) are each integrally formed from a thermoplastic material, preferably polypropylene.

13. A method for assembling a suction valve (26) of an endoscope (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the suction valve (26) comprising a valve body (42), a valve stem (56) and a valve spring (50), the valve body (42) having an elastic valve seat (88), the method comprising the following steps: - attaching the valve spring (50) to the valve stem (56); - Pushing the valve stem (56) into the valve body (42); - causing the valve seat (88) of the valve body (42) to bend elastically together with the valve stem (56); and - Positioning the valve spring (50) on the valve body (42).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The valve stem (56) includes a retaining hook (90), and the method further includes the steps of: - passing the retaining hook (90) of the valve stem (56) through the valve seat (88); This step is after the step of pushing the valve stem (56) into the valve body (42).

15. A system comprising an endoscope (2) according to one of claims 1 to 12, and a video processing device (VPA).

Images