Stone fragment capturing device, stone crushing device and stone crushing method

Abstract

The invention relates to a stone fragment capturing device, a stone crushing device and a stone crushing method. A stone fragment capture device for a lithotripsy system includes a container for retaining stone fragments, an inlet port in the container coupled to a suction channel of a lithotripsy device, an outlet port fluidly coupled to a collection canister of the lithotripsy system, a transparent portion of the container through which the stone fragment is viewed; and a marker on the container for determining a property of the stone fragment. A method of retrieving stone fragments from a lithotripsy procedure includes crushing a stone with a lithotripsy device, evacuating through the lithotripsy device to draw stone fragments and waste liquid through the lithotripsy device, evacuating through a stone fragment capture device coupled to the lithotripsy device, separating the stone fragments from the waste liquid within the stone fragment capture device, and recovering the stone fragments from the waste liquid within the lithotripsy device. Attributes of the stone fragments in the stone fragment capturing device are determined, and the lithotripsy operation is completed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally but not limited to medical devices that can be used to break obstacles such as physiological stones or "stones" using lithotripsy.

[0002] More specifically but not limited to, the present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for capturing stone fragments from a lithotripsy system. Background Art

[0003] Medical endoscopes were first developed in the early 19th century and have been used to examine the interior of the body. A typical endoscope includes a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end includes an optical or electronic imaging system, and the proximal end has control means for manipulating tools and means for viewing images, where a solid or tubular elongated shaft connects these ends. Some endoscopes allow a doctor to pass tools or treatments along one or more hollow working channels, such as excising tissue or retrieving an object.

[0004] In the past few decades, some progress has been made in the field of endoscopes, particularly in the fragmentation of physiological stones in the bile duct, urinary tract, kidney, and gallbladder. Physiological stones in these areas can block the ducts and cause patients to experience great pain. Therefore, these stones are usually fragmented for surgical removal or biological excretion. Different techniques and surgeries have been developed to break stones, which include ultrasonic lithotripsy, pneumatic lithotripsy, electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL), and laser lithotripsy including using green light, YAG, or holmium lasers to dissolve stones. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The inventors have recognized that, among other things, a problem to be solved during a lithotripsy procedure is the recovery of stone fragments from the patient during or after the procedure. Typically, stone fragments are removed from the patient's body via suction applied to the distal end of the lithotripsy device. The suction pulls adjacent stone fragments through a cannula and generally deposits the fragments, along with other fluids from the patient such as biological fluids and irrigation fluids, into a waste container. The waste container is typically located at a position remote from the lithotripsy device, such as near a suction pump placed in the surgical area. Thus, the stone fragments typically form part of a mixture of materials located in a single container, making it difficult to retrieve the stone fragments. Retrieval of the stone fragments may be desirable so that analysis can be performed. For example, a doctor may view the stone fragments to develop a diet plan to prevent future formation of stones, or the stone fragments may be sent to a laboratory for detailed compositional analysis. Additionally, it may be desirable to retrieve the stone fragments to evaluate whether all of the stones in the patient's body have been recovered.

[0006] The present subject matter can provide a solution to this and other problems by providing a stone fragment capture device and system that collects stone fragments for separation from other collected materials, such as waste fluid. The stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure can retrieve stone fragments from a waste fluid stream removed from a patient via suction while allowing the waste fluid stream to pass through the stone fragment capture device. The stone fragments can be retained in a container of the stone fragment capture device. The container can hold the stone fragments pre-separated from the waste fluid for later removal and analysis. In this way, personnel do not need to manually filter the stone fragments from a waste container connected to a suction pump. In an example, the stone fragments can be stored in a sealed container for transport to a laboratory without user intervention or repackaging.

[0007] The present inventors also recognize that, among other things, another problem to be solved during lithotripsy surgery is the difficulty in determining how much biological material has been retrieved from the patient during the surgery. For example, imaging (such as X-ray imaging) can be used preoperatively to determine that a patient has a particular type of stone formation. The number of stones in the formation and the size of each stone can be estimated by imaging. In this way, the surgeon can estimate how much biological material is to be collected from the patient. However, it may be difficult to determine intraoperatively whether the retrieved stone fragments cover all the stones identified in the imaged stone formation. As mentioned, the stone fragments are typically suctioned through a lithotripsy device into a waste fluid collection canister where it is difficult to view the stone fragments. Since the waste fluid collection canister is connected to the suction line used during the surgery, collection and analysis of the stone fragments from the waste fluid collection canister may occur postoperatively.

[0008] The present subject matter solves this and other problems by providing a stone fragment capture device that can provide intraoperative analysis of the collected stone fragments. The stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure can facilitate intraoperative viewing of the captured stone fragments, such as by including a window or being made of a transparent material. Viewing of the captured stone fragments can allow determination of the size of the captured stone fragments, e.g., volume or dimensions. The stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure can include indicia to facilitate determination or estimation of the volume or dimensions of the captured stone fragments, such as tick marks, scales, scale markings, numerical values, text, graphics, symbols, etc. Additionally, the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure can include multiple sets of indicia to facilitate obtaining information from the captured stone fragments from multiple directions.

[0009] In an example, a stone fragment capture device for a lithotripsy system can include a container for retaining stone fragments; an inlet port in the container for coupling to a suction channel of a lithotripsy device; an outlet port for fluidly coupling to a collection canister of the lithotripsy system; a transparent portion of the container through which the stone fragments can be viewed; and indicia on the container for determining an attribute of the stone fragments disposed within the container.

[0010] In another example, a lithotripsy device can include a handpiece configured to be held by a user; an excitation source configured to generate energy for breaking a physiological calculus; a shaft having a proximal end extending from the handpiece and a distal end configured to engage with the physiological calculus; and a calculus fragment capture device fluidly connected to the handpiece, the calculus fragment capture device including: a container into which waste fluid and calculus fragments from the handpiece can flow; a capture element connected to the container for extracting calculus fragments from the waste fluid stream; and a marker provided on the calculus fragment capture device for comparing with calculus fragments within the calculus fragment capture device.

[0011] In a further example, a method of retrieving calculus fragments from a lithotripsy procedure can include: breaking a calculus with a lithotripsy device; applying a vacuum through the lithotripsy device to draw calculus fragments and waste fluid through the lithotripsy device; applying a vacuum through a calculus fragment capture device connected to the lithotripsy device; separating the calculus fragments from the waste fluid within the calculus fragment capture device; determining attributes of the calculus fragments within the calculus fragment capture device; and completing the lithotripsy procedure.

[0012] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about this patent application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary lithotripsy system with which various calculus fragment capture devices and systems of the present disclosure can be used.

[0014] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a lithotripsy system suitable for a measuring device of the present disclosure, which includes a handheld probe configured to deliver high-frequency and ultrasonic energy for breaking a calculus.

[0015] Figure 3 is suitable for use with Figure 2 is a perspective view of a suction pump and a calculus capture tank for use with a lithotripsy system.

[0016] Figure 4 is in the user's hand Figure 2 is a close-up perspective view of the handpiece of a handheld probe of

[0017] Figure 5 is Figures 2 to 4 is a schematic diagram of components of a lithotripsy system and a suction system interacting with a kidney having a calculus.

[0018] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a calculus fragment capture device having a volume indicator and configured for direct connection to a handpiece of a lithotripsy device in a linear direction.

[0019] Figure 7 is a schematic cross - sectional view of a stone fragment capture device having a plurality of volume indicators for reading in different directions and configured to be directly coupled to a handpiece of a lithotripter device in an angled direction.

[0020] Figure 8A is a schematic cross - sectional view of a stone fragment capture device having a volume indicator and configured to be directly coupled to a handpiece of a lithotripter device via a rotary joint.

[0021] Figure 8B is a perspective view of a first deformable valve for use with the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 8C is Figure 8B a cross - sectional view of the first deformable valve of, showing a flow path configured to receive a tube stem and a deflectable interlocking feature to close the valve.

[0023] Figure 8D is a perspective view of a second deformable valve suitable for use with the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 8E is Figure 8D a cross - sectional view of the second deformable valve of, showing a conical flow path configured to receive a tube stem and a deflectable flap feature to close the valve.

[0025] Figure 9 is a schematic cross - sectional view of a stone fragment capture device having a volume indicator and a cap configured to be coupled to a fluid suction line.

[0026] Figure 10 is a schematic cross - sectional view of a stone fragment capture device having a volume indicator and configured to be coupled to a handpiece of a lithotripter device via an orienting tube.

[0027] Figure 11 is a schematic cross - sectional view of a stone fragment capture device having a volume indicator and employing a concentric filter element.

[0028] Figure 12 is a schematic cross - sectional view of a stone fragment capture device having a volume indicator and employing a gravity trap with a bypass.

[0029] Figure 13 is a schematic cross - sectional view of a stone fragment capture device having a volume indicator and employing a spiral trap.

[0030] Figure 14It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device having a volume indicator and employing a vortex trap.

[0031] Figure 15 It is a flowchart showing a method of retrieving stone fragments from a lithotripsy procedure using the stone fragment capture device and system of the present disclosure, which can incorporate feedback and measurement capabilities.

[0032] In the drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, the same numbers may describe similar components in different views. Similar numbers with different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings generally illustrate, by way of example and not limitation, the various embodiments discussed in this document. Detailed Description

[0033] The present disclosure provides examples of devices, systems, and methods that can help address problems associated with capturing stone fragments during a lithotripsy procedure. In particular, the present disclosure provides examples of devices, systems, and methods that can be used to retrieve stone fragments from the collection process for real-time and intraoperative analysis and preservation for postoperative analysis. Generally, collecting stone fragments for later analysis can be challenging because stone fragments are collected simultaneously with other fluids in the procedure, thus requiring subsequent processing such as separation and repackaging. Benefits of the methods described herein include, among other things, capturing stone fragments during the procedure in a container that separates the stone fragments from the flowing waste fluid, thereby reducing the post-processing procedures and time. Direct separation of stone fragments within the waste fluid stream can allow for real-time intraoperative analysis, such as determining or estimating the volume and size of the captured stone fragments. The captured stone fragments can be analyzed with the measurement devices described herein to provide feedback on how much fragmented stone material has been captured, for example, to determine whether all of the stones identified preoperatively have been collected. Thus, the opportunity to require subsequent surgery to collect unbroken stones or residual stone fragments remaining in the patient can be reduced or eliminated. The stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure can include a measurement device such as a marker or scale on a transparent window through which the captured stone fragments can be viewed. Additionally, the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure can facilitate viewing of the captured stone fragments from multiple directions, reducing the need for the user to reorient the lithotripsy device during the procedure to obtain feedback, thereby reducing the procedure time and operator fatigue.

[0034] Figure 1 An isometric view of an example of a lithotripsy system 100 is shown, the lithotripsy system 100 including a lithotripter 102 having a housing 104 such as a handle or handpiece. The lithotripter 102 can include a delivery member 106 that can be delivered through the working channel WC of an endoscope E to a treatment site. The endoscope E can also include a light source LS and a camera C.

[0035] The delivery member 106 may include an elongate shaft 108 having a tubular structure, which may be flexible or rigid. Materials for the delivery member include, but are not limited to, polytetrafluoroethylene (“PTFE”), polyethylene (“PE”), and polyamide. The elongate shaft 108 may include an outer surface 110 and at least one lumen 112 extending therethrough, which is adapted for passage of components and materials in communication with the end effector described herein.

[0036] The delivery member 106 may include an end effector, such as a probe 114, at the distal end, which may be delivered to the treatment site. The probe 114 may be configured to deliver energy to fragment mobile stones, such as stones located in the bile duct, urinary tract, kidney, or gallbladder. The probe 114 of the lithotripter 102 may be introduced into a patient and is driven by the delivery member 106 through the working channel WC of an endoscope E or a similar instrument. The probe 114 may be flexible or rigid.

[0037] The lithotripter 102 may be connected to a signal generator 116. The signal generator 116 may include a power supply 118 or may be coupled to an external power supply. The signal generator 116 may also include an input 120 to receive instructions from an operator and may include a controller 122 having processing circuitry for determining an action based on the operator input and sending a control signal via an output 124 to communicate with the lithotripter 102. The signal generator 116 may include an excitation source that may generate a signal and send the signal to the probe 114 of the lithotripter 102 to cause the probe 114 to emit acoustic energy. The acoustic energy may include sound waves, sonic waves, ultrasonic waves, or shock waves, or any combination thereof. The acoustic energy may be delivered to the stone S to degrade, rupture, and thus fragment the stone S. The examples herein are described with reference to a combination of ultrasonic and shock wave applications, but any suitable acoustic energy or combination thereof for fragmenting stones may also be provided. The terms sonic wave and ultrasonic wave may be used interchangeably herein and may include any suitable acoustic energy for fragmenting stones. In additional examples, the lithotripter 102 may be configured to deliver pneumatic, hydraulic, or laser energy.

[0038] Features of the probe 114 may provide improved fragmentation of the stone S. For example, the probe 114 may include a drill 126, such as an ultrasonic drill, that emits acoustic energy in a longitudinal direction A1 (which does not need to include a rotating drill) to drill a hole in the stone. In an example, the longitudinal direction A1 may extend in the proximal P to distal D direction. The probe 114 may also include one or more lateral ultrasonic emitters 128, such as lateral ultrasonic transducers, to deliver acoustic energy inside the hole to fragment the stone from the inside out, such as by applying acoustic energy in a radial or lateral direction A2. The lateral ultrasonic emitters 128 may emit ultrasonic energy radially with respect to the axis of the delivery member 106.

[0039] The drill bit 126 can be coupled to the elongate shaft 108 and can be located at the distal end of the probe 114. The drill bit 126 can include at least a portion that extends to the distal end of the elongate shaft 108. In Figure 1 an example, the drill bit 126 can be configured to emit ultrasonic energy in the longitudinal direction A1. The drill bit 126 can cause mechanical alteration or disruption of the stone S by generating pulsating shock waves that generally move along the longitudinal direction A1. The drill bit 126 can be configured to drill, for example, into a recess in the stone S or through a passage in the stone S. Figure 1 An example of the drill bit 126 including a passage drilled through the stone S is shown.

[0040] The drill bit 126 can be an ultrasonic emitter that receives ultrasonic energy from an ultrasonic drill transducer located remotely, which for clarity will be referred to as the drill transducer 136 compared to other emitters and transducers in the present disclosure. The drill transducer 136 can be located, for example, in the housing 104 of the lithotripter 102. The drill transducer 136 can transmit ultrasonic energy distally outside the housing 104 in a generally longitudinal direction A1. The ultrasonic energy can be transmitted from the drill transducer 136 to the drill bit 126 via an ultrasonic transmission member 138. The ultrasonic transmission member 138 can be coupled to the drill transducer 136 at the proximal end and to the drill bit 126 at the distal end. The ultrasonic transmission member 138 can be formed of any material (including but not limited to metals, metal alloys, shape memory alloys, polymers, ceramics, fibers, crystals, or composites thereof) capable of transmitting ultrasonic energy from the drill transducer 136 to the drill bit 126.

[0041] The drill transducer 136 can be electrically coupled to the signal generator 116, for example, via a connector 140, to receive signals for the operation of the drill bit 126. The drill transducer 136 can be actuated, for example, by an operator depressing a foot pedal 132 that is in electrical communication with the signal generator 116, or can be actuated by a drill actuator 134 that is coupled to the housing 104 and in electrical communication with the signal generator 116. Additionally or alternatively, the drill transducer 136 can operate based on an input 120 from the operator and / or an action determined by the controller 122. Any other suitable actuator for controlling the activation of the drill bit 126 can be provided.

[0042] In addition to using the ultrasonic emitter for drilling, the probe 114 can include at least one lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 that is configured to direct ultrasonic energy radially or laterally outward and away from the longitudinal direction A1 (such as, toward the inner surface of the stone S (e.g., an internal passage)). In Figure 1In the example of, at least one lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 includes a plurality of lateral ultrasonic emitters 128 or an array of lateral ultrasonic emitters 128.

[0043] Each lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 can direct ultrasonic energy in the lateral direction A2, and each lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 is positioned at a different longitudinal position on the probe 114. In some examples, the lateral ultrasonic emitters 128 can be spaced apart along the longitudinal direction A1. The lateral ultrasonic emitters 128 can extend laterally or radially around the probe 114. In some examples, the lateral ultrasonic emitters 128 can extend around the entire 360-degree circumference of the probe 114, or when the probe has a non-circular cross-section in a direction transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction A1, can extend around the perimeter of the probe 114. In other examples, the lateral ultrasonic emitters 128 can only partially wrap around the probe 114.

[0044] The lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 can be located at the proximal end of the drill bit 126. The benefit of such an arrangement is that the lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 can follow the drill bit 126 such that after the drill bit 126 has prepared an internal channel in the stone S, the lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 can advance through the internal channel. When activated, for example, by a lateral emitter actuator 142 that is in electrical communication with the lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 via an electrical component 144 such as a cable, the lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 can be configured to emit ultrasonic energy into the internal channel and into the stone S to fragment the stone S from within the stone S.

[0045] Similar to the drill bit transducer 136, the lateral ultrasonic emitter 128 can include an ultrasonic transducer or other acoustic transducer. An electroacoustic transducer is a component that can convert an electrical signal into a change in a physical quantity such as a sound wave or pressure. The ultrasonic transducer can include a linear piezoelectric stack having a piezoelectric element located between two metal plates. In additional examples, a magnetostrictive stack can be used. Such a piezoelectric element can convert electrical energy (e.g., an electric current) into mechanical energy (e.g., a sound wave, acoustic wave, ultrasonic wave, shock wave). The piezoelectric element can include a crystal, such as quartz, whose physical properties cause the crystal to be mechanically stressed when subjected to an electric field, resulting in the crystal changing size or shape. The piezoelectric element can alternatively expand and contract in response to an alternating electric field (e.g., that can be provided by a signal generator 116). Such expansion and contraction can generate a sound wave that can be delivered to the stone S to fragment the stone S.

[0046] To help position the stone S relative to the working channel WC of the endoscope E and (except for the longitudinal movement of the probe 114 through the stone) relative to the probe 114 while drilling, suction 130 (as indicated by the arrow) can be applied through the working channel WC. The suction 130 can "capture" the stone S by pulling the stone S towards the working channel WC and thus towards the drill bit 126 of the probe 114 for drilling the stone S. When the stone S breaks, the stone fragments can be suctioned into the working channel WC.

[0047] Some of the lithotripsy systems described herein can include a fluid input 166 for receiving fluid from a fluid reservoir FS and delivering the fluid to the treatment site. For example, a flushing fluid or a lavage fluid can be transmitted through the endoscope E or the elongate shaft 108. A typical stone fragment retrieval system involves simply collecting the mixture of solids and liquids retrieved from the patient while the procedure is being performed. For example, suction 130 can be applied at the distal end of the endoscope E or the elongate shaft 108, and a vacuum can be drawn through the suction to deposit the material (e.g., stone fragments and waste fluid) into a waste container. In an example, a tube 150 can be connected to the housing 104 to fluidly couple the lumen extending through the working channel WC of the endoscope E to the collection container 152. The tube 150 can additionally be connected to a suction device 154 or a pump to draw a vacuum through the working channel WC (as indicated by the arrow of the suction 130), as explained in more detail with reference to Figure 3 as follows.

[0048] As discussed herein, the present disclosure provides a stone capture fragment device that can be positioned upstream of the collection container 152 and downstream of the lithotripter 102. In particular, the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure can be attached to the lithotripter 102 or positioned shortly (e.g., downstream) after the lithotripter 102. Thus, the stone fragments can be collected before the stone fragments might block or form a clog within the tube 150. Additionally, the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure can include the ability to analyze the captured stone fragments. For example, being able to measure the captured stone fragments to determine the volume or quantity of the stone fragments collected within the stone fragment capture device. Thus, with the present disclosure, the lithotripsy system 100 can be equipped with a measurement system to provide feedback to the user regarding the amount of stone fragments collected within the stone fragment capture device.

[0049] Figure 2is a perspective view of a lithotripsy system 200 including a handheld probe 202 configured to deliver high-frequency and ultrasonic energy for fragmentation of a stone. In an example, the lithotripsy system 200 can include an oscillating lithotripter as described in the patent to St. George et al., U.S. Patent No. 9,974,552, titled "Vibratory Lithotripter" and assigned to Gyrus ACMI, Inc., the entire content of which is incorporated herein. Features of the present disclosure can be added to the lithotripsy system 200. Additionally, the lithotripsy system 200 can include Figure 1 an example of the lithotripsy system 100.

[0050] The handheld probe 202 can include a handpiece or handle 204 and a shaft 206. The handheld probe 202 can be connected, for example, via a cable 210 to a generator console 208. A collection tube 212 can be connected to a storage container, such as a fluid reservoir FS ( Figure 1 ) or a container 232 ( Figure 3 ) to collect fluids and other biological materials collected via the shaft 206. The shaft 206 can extend from a proximal end 214 to a distal end 216 and can include an internal lumen. The handle 204 can also include buttons 218A and 218B to control activation of energy and a knob 219 to control the suction level.

[0051] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a suction pump 220 and a stone fragment canister 222. The suction pump 220 can include a housing 224, a power switch 226, a suction knob 228, and an indicator 230. The stone fragment canister 222 can include a container 232 and a lid 234. The stone fragment canister 222 can be connected to the suction pump 220 via a tube 236.

[0052] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the handle 204 in a user's hand 240. The handle 204 can include a handpiece 242. The knob 219 can be located proximal to the handpiece 242, and a nose cone 244 can be located distal to the handpiece 242. The cable 210 and the collection tube 212 can also be connected to the proximal end of the handpiece 242.

[0053] Figure 5 is Figures 2 to 4 a schematic view of the components of the lithotripsy system 200 and the suction pump 220 interacting with a stone 248 in a kidney 249. As referenced in Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As discussed, the lithotripsy system 200 can include a handheld probe 202, a suction pump 220, and a stone fragment canister 222. The handheld probe 202 can include a shaft 206 and a handle 204. The handle 204 can be connected to a generator console 208 via a cable 210. The handle 204 can be connected to the stone fragment canister 222 via a collection tube 212, and the stone fragment canister 222 can be connected to the suction pump 220.

[0054] Figures 2 to 5 Together, a lithotripsy system that can use the stone fragment capture device and measurement device of the present disclosure is discussed and provided. Figure 1 of the lithotripsy system 100 and Figure 2 The lithotripsy system 200 is an example of a lithotripsy system that can be used with the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure and the associated methods described herein. For example, the stone fragment measurement device of the present disclosure can include an indicator to notify a user of the amount of stone fragments disposed within the stone fragment measurement device. In an example, the indicator can provide feedback related to the volume of stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device, such as by using a scale disposed on a wall or window of a container in which the stone fragments are captured. The stone fragment capture device can be connected to the housing 104 ( Figure 1 ) or the handle 204 ( Figure 2 ) to provide an indication to the user of how much biological material (e.g., stone fragments) has been collected within the stone fragment capture device.

[0055] With particular reference to Figure 2 , the handle 204 can include any device suitable for facilitating the manipulation and operation of the shaft 206. The handle 204 can be located at the proximal end 214 of the shaft 206 or at another suitable location along the shaft 206. In an example, the handle 204 can include a pistol grip, a knob, a handle grip, etc. In addition to or as an alternative to the buttons 218A and 218B and the knob 219, the handle 204 can also include one or more of buttons, triggers, levers, knobs, dials, etc. for controlling energy activation, suction, flushing, etc.

[0056] In various examples, the distal end 216 of the shaft 206 or another suitable location along the shaft 206 may include a surgical device, which may include components or devices for interacting with a patient, such as those configured to cut and cauterize tissue and / or produce a desired tissue effect in the patient. In an example, the surgical tool may include forceps, cutting tools, ablation electrodes, cryogenic needles or applicators, ultrasonic probe tips, etc. and combinations thereof. Thus, the hand-held probe 202 may be equipped with linkages, such as mechanical linkages for actuating forceps or cutting tools, electrical linkages for activating ablation electrodes, acoustic linkages, fluid conduits (e.g., for delivering cryogenic argon), etc. and combinations thereof. In an example, the surgical device may be included on a device used in conjunction with the hand-held probe 202. In additional examples, the hand-held probe 202 may include a device for viewing the patient (e.g., an optical device including an endoscope (e.g., Figure 1 endoscope E) and a fiberscope), or may be combined with such a device.

[0057] The generator console 208 may include an energy source for the hand-held probe 202. For example, the generator console 208 may be configured to provide electrical power for performing ablation and cauterization functions and / or ultrasonic energy for providing cutting, coagulation, fragmentation, or other types of surgical functions. In an example, the generator console 208 may provide ultrasonic energy, while the intermittent ballistic shock wave energy is provided via an oscillating free mass within the handle 204.

[0058] The shaft 206 may include an elongate member configured to deliver energy for fragmenting a stone into the patient's body. The shaft 206 may be rigid and formed of a metal or plastic material. In an example, the size of the shaft 206 may be designed to perform lithotripsy surgery in combination with an endoscope. Thus, the shaft 206 may be inserted into an incision in the patient's epidermis, passed through the patient's body cavity and into an organ. Therefore, it is desirable for the diameter or cross-sectional shape of the shaft 206 to be as small as possible to facilitate minimally invasive surgery. However, the shaft 206 may also incorporate a lumen to allow removal (e.g., via aspiration) of fragments of the stone produced by the fragmenting energy. Thus, it is necessary to balance the size of the shaft 206 and the size of the lumen extending therethrough to allow for minimal invasiveness and adequate removal of stone fragments. For example, too small a lumen would increase the time taken to fragment the stone into appropriately small pieces. However, removal of the stone fragments may be provided by a lumen within a delivery scope (such as Figure 1 the working channel WC of endoscope E).

[0059] With particular reference to Figure 3 the lid 234 of the stone fragment canister 222 may be connected to the suction line of the lithotripsy device, such as Figure 2The collection tube 212. The suction pump 220 may include a pump device within the housing 224 to create a vacuum within the container 232 to draw liquid and stone fragments from the lithotripter device into the container 232. The liquid and stone fragments within the collection tube 212 may enter into the container 232. The liquid and stone fragments may deposit on the bottom of the container 232. A filter or capture device within the container 232 may prevent the stone fragments from passing through the container 232. Multiple instances of the stone fragment canisters 222 may be connected in series to collect a greater volume of fluid and stone fragments than the volume that the container 232 can provide. The user may use the suction knob 228 to set the level, amplitude, or amount of suction created by the suction pump 220. The indicator 230 may provide an indication of the amount of suction created. The power switch 226 may be used to turn on or off the power provided to the pump device within the suction pump 220.

[0060] The cable 210 may provide electrical power and means of electronic communication to the handle 204. For example, the cable 210 may provide electrical power to a transducer within the shaft 206 or the nose cone 244 to provide energy for breaking the stone. The cable 210 may also conduct ultrasonic energy. The buttons 218A and 218B may control the operation of the transducer within the shaft 206 or the nose cone 244, for example, by providing different activation levels (e.g., power) to the transducer.

[0061] The collection tube 212 may be connected to a stem 246 on the handpiece 242. The stem 246 and the collection tube 212 may be in internal fluid communication with the shaft 206. The suction of the suction pump 220 may be pulled through the collection tube 212, the stem 246, and the shaft 206. The knob 219 may be rotated to control the amount of suction provided to the shaft 206.

[0062] With particular reference to Figure 4, during operation, the user's hand 240 can grasp or hold the handpiece 242, with the thumb positioned towards the knob 219 and the buttons 218A and 218B positioned near the fingertips. In this way, the thumb can be used to push the knob 219 back and forth to adjust the suction level, while the fingertips can be used to adjust the transducer power level. Additionally, the hand 240 can be moved distally (e.g., in the direction of the shaft 206) to bring the end of the shaft 206 into engagement with the stone. In this way, the user can control the suction level and activate the energy simultaneously while pushing the shaft 206 into the stone. The user can operate the handheld probe 202 by manipulating the shaft 206 along the axis AA3. Generally, the user can move the handle 204 up and down along the axis AA3 in the vertical direction, or move the handle 204 back and forth along the axis AA3 in the horizontal position. Otherwise, the handle 204 can be held on the axis AA3 between vertical and horizontal. Throughout the surgery or most of the surgery, the user's hand 240 is generally held closely to the handle 204. With the present disclosure, the stone fragment capture device can be directly connected to the handle 204 or connected to the handle 204 closely via a flexible tube. As discussed herein, the stone fragment capture device can separate the stone fragments from the waste liquid flowing out of the handpiece 242. Since the stone fragment capture device is closely located to the handpiece 242, it can be easily seen by the user of the lithotripsy system 200 holding the handpiece 242. As described herein, the stone fragment capture device can include a container made of a transparent material or a window including a transparent material, which allows the captured stone fragments to be viewed inside the container. The transparent material of the container can be located at one or more positions to allow the user to view the captured stone fragments in different directions of the handle 204. The stone fragment capture device can be positioned in one or more directions with at least a set of markings upright. Additionally, the transparent material can include markings thereon or be closely located to an identifier, and the markings can facilitate the evaluation of the captured stone fragments. In an example, the markings can include a scale that provides an indication of the height of the stone fragments collected inside the container. In an example, the markings can include a scale that provides an indication of the volume of the stone fragments collected inside the container. In an example, the markings can include a scale that provides an indication of the size (e.g., diameter) of the stone fragments collected inside the container. In this way, the markings can help the surgeon or other users evaluate the captured stone fragments to determine, for example, whether a sufficient number of stone fragments have been captured or whether the stone fragments are sufficiently fragmented.

[0063] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone crushing system 250 including a probe handpiece 251 and a stone fragment capture device 252. The stone crushing system 250 can include any lithotripsy system described herein, or another surgical system configured to generate suction therethrough. The stone crushing system 250 can be associated with Figure 1for use with a lithotripsy system 100 that can radially deliver fragmentation energy along a probe 114, and for use with Figure 2 a lithotripsy system 200 that can longitudinally deliver fragmentation energy along an axis 206.

[0064] The stone fragment capture device 252 can include a valve 254 and a filter 256, which can be connected to a container 258. The container 258 can include a housing 260, a lid 262, an inlet port 264, and an outlet port 266. The probe handpiece 251 can include a handle 204 of a hand-held probe 202 ( Figure 2 ). The probe handpiece 251 can include a handle 268 and a stem 270. In an example, the handle 268 can include a knob 272 similar to Figure 2 the knob 219 to control functions such as the suction level of the stone fragmentation system 250. A channel 274 can be configured to extend from the handle 268 (such as from a probe or shaft extending distally therefrom), and through the proximal knob 272 and the stem 270. In an example, the knob 272 can be omitted or can be located at the distal end of the handle 268.

[0065] The container 258 can be coupled to the handle 268 and a tube 276. The housing 260 can be positioned such that the inlet port 264 is coupled to the stem 270. The stem 270 can include barbs 278, which can be configured to facilitate attachment of the container 258 to the handle 268. For example, the barbs 278 can be an elastic rim extending around the stem 270, the diameter of which can be slightly larger than the inner diameter of the inlet port 264. The inlet port 264 can include a cylindrical tube extending from a bottom plate 280 of the housing 260. The tube forming the inlet port 264 can be tapered (e.g., inwardly towards an axis AA4 that moves from left to right in the Figure 6 direction) to slow the movement of the stone fragments 284 entering the container 258. The bottom plate 280 can include an annular disk connecting the inlet port 264 to the housing 260. Similarly, the outlet port 266 can include a cylindrical tube extending from the lid 262. The lid 262 can include an end plate 282, which can include an annular disk connecting the outlet port 266 to the lid 262. The lid 262 can be coupled or fastened to the housing 260 via any suitable means (such as a threaded connection or a snap-fit connection). In an example, the tube 276 can be integrally formed with the outlet port 266 as shown. In other examples, the tube 276 can be coupled to the outlet port 266 via a barb connection similar to the barbs 278. Although the example shown depicts the container 258 directly coupled to the stem 270 of the handle 268, the container 258 can also be coupled to the handle 268 via a tube that can be coupled around the stem 270 and inserted into the inlet port 264.

[0066] The container 258 can be positioned between the handle 268 and the tube 276 to capture stone fragments 284 leaving the channel 274. The stone fragments 284 can flow from the handle 268 through the channel 274 to the rod 270. The stone fragments 284 can pass through the inlet port 264 and disperse into the interior of the container 258 within the housing 260. The valve 254 can prevent the stone fragments 284 from returning to the probe handpiece 251. The baffle 267 can deflect the stone fragments 284 away from the filter 256. The filter 256 can prevent the stone fragments 284 from leaving the container 258, but can allow fluid to flow out of the container 258.

[0067] The inlet port 264 can be configured to align with the outlet port 266 along axis AA4. However, in other examples, the outlet port 266 can be offset or angled relative to axis AA4, as discussed herein with reference to other examples or embodiments (e.g., Figure 8A ). One or more stone fragment capture elements such as the tube including the inlet port 264, the valve 254, the filter 256, and the baffle 267 can be located on or within the container 258 to facilitate retention of the stone fragments 284 within the container 258.

[0068] In an example, the housing 260 can extend beyond the end 286 of the inlet port 264 to provide space for the stone fragments 284 to enter the container 258. In an example, the end plate 282 can be positioned a distance away from the end to allow the momentum of the stone fragments 284 to dissipate. Additionally, the baffle 267 can be located at a position opposite the end 286 to deflect the stone fragments 284 into the housing 260. The baffle 267 can include a body of various shapes that extends radially inward from the wall of the housing 260 or axially outward from the inlet port 264 to prevent the outlet port 266 from being directly impacted by the stone fragments 284. The baffle 267 can reduce the momentum of the stone fragments 284 to facilitate movement of the stone fragments 284 out of the suction path (e.g., liquid flow path) between the inlet port 264 and the outlet port 266.

[0069] The filter 256 can be located within the container 258 to prevent the stone fragments 284 from escaping from the container 258. In the illustrated example, the filter 256 is located at the outlet port 266. However, the filter 256 can be located within the outlet port 266 or at other locations within the container 258 to prevent material from freely entering the outlet port 266. In an example, the filter 256 can be mounted to the cap 262 to facilitate access to the stone fragments 284 within the container 258 when the cap 262 is removed. However, the filter 256 can be configured to be removable from the housing 260 independently of the cap 262. The filter 256 can be sized to allow liquid, small tissue pieces, or stone fragments and other debris to pass through the container 258, but prevent large pieces of material from remaining within the container 258.

[0070] The valve 254 can be located near the end of the rod 270 and can be used to intermittently close the rod 270 to prevent the stone fragments 284 from escaping from the container 258. For example, when the container 258 is removed from the inlet port 264 and the tube 276 is removed from the cap 262, the valve 254 can be closed to prevent the stone fragments 284 from leaving the container 258 at the inlet port 264. The valve 254 can include any suitable means for allowing inflow into the housing 260 when the container 258 is attached to the rod 270 and for preventing the stone fragments from leaving the housing 260 when the container 258 is detached from the handle 268. The valve 254 can be configured to be mechanically opened by engaging with the rod 270 or by vacuum operation pulled via the container 258. The valve 254 can include a flap valve, a ball valve, a biasing stopper, etc.

[0071] Capture elements such as the valve 254, the filter 256, the baffle 267, and other filter or orifice elements described herein can be configured to retain substances or stone fragments 284 suitable for further analysis (such as visual inspection for quantitative analysis, dimensional analysis, color analysis, and texture analysis). The container 258 can be provided with feedback elements or components such as the marker 290 to allow for the analysis and evaluation of the captured stone fragments.

[0072] The stone fragments 284 can flow from the handle 268 through the channel 274 to the rod 270. The stone fragments 284 can be dispersed inside the container 258. The baffle 267 can radially deflect the stone fragments 284 away from the axis AA4 to the housing 260. Due to gravity, the stone fragments 284 will fall downward. If the user holds the handle 268 such that the axis AA4 is vertical, the stone fragments 284 will fall towards the bottom plate 280. If the user holds the handle 268 such that the axis AA4 is horizontal, the stone fragments 284 will fall towards the housing 260. The housing 260, the bottom plate 280, and the end plate 282 can be made of a transparent material to allow viewing of the stone fragments 284 through the container 258. Additionally or alternatively, the housing 260, the bottom plate 280, and the end plate 282 can include windows made of a transparent material to allow viewing of the stone fragments inside the container 258. Multiple windows can be included to allow viewing of the container 258 from multiple directions. In an example, the transparent material can include glass or a plastic such as polycarbonate.

[0073] The container 258 can be provided with markings to facilitate obtaining information from the stone fragments 284. For example, the marker 290 can be provided along the housing 260 to provide one or more reference points against which the stone fragments 284 inside the container 258 can be compared. In Figure 6In the example shown, a single set of markings is provided on container 258. However, multiple sets of markings may be included on container 258, for example, to allow for obtaining different types of information during use or for obtaining the same information in different orientations of container 258. In the example, markings 290 may provide properties of stone fragment 284, such as length scale, volume scale (e.g., zero at the first end and increasing in volume as moving away from the first end), size scale, color scale (e.g., darker in color towards one end and lighter in color towards the opposite end, and explaining the meaning of each color, such as the type of stone), texture scale (e.g., a first pattern towards one end and a second pattern towards the opposite end, and explaining the meaning of each pattern, such as the type of stone), smoothness scale (e.g., the density pattern is lighter towards one end and darker towards the opposite end, and explaining the meaning of each density, such as the type of stone), etc., for comparison with stone fragment 284 within housing 260.

[0074] In the example, markings 290 may include a scale ruler that indicates the distance along housing 260. For example, the distance from base plate 280 may be indicated with a scale similar to a ruler. Such a scale ruler may facilitate determining dimensions of stone fragment 284, such as its diameter. In the example, the axis of markings 290 including the scale ruler may be aligned parallel to rod 270. In this way, a single stone fragment 284 may be positioned adjacent to markings 290, such as by orienting or shaking stone fragment capture device 252, to facilitate analysis of a single stone fragment 284. In the example, markings 290 may provide a length indication in numbers or text, such as inches or millimeters.

[0075] In the example, markings 290 may include volume markings that indicate the volume of the material above base plate 280, similar to a graduated cylinder. The volume may be determined by multiplying the area of base plate 280 by the distance of each scale ruler from base plate 280. The user may place stone fragment capture device 252 such that base plate 280 is positioned downward relative to gravity, so that stone fragment 284 lands on base plate 280 and markings 290 are upright. The user may shake stone fragment capture device 252 to move stone fragment 284 closer to base plate 280 and eliminate gaps between adjacent stone fragments. In the example, markings 290 may provide a volume indication in numbers or text, such as milliliters, cubic centimeters, cubic inches, fluid ounces, or quarts.

[0076] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device 300 suitable for use with any lithotripsy system described herein or another surgical system configured to generate suction therethrough. Stone fragment capture device 300 may be used with Figure 1 lithotripsy system 100, which may radially deliver fragmentation energy along probe 114, and withFigure 2 for use with a lithotripter system 200 that can longitudinally convey crushing energy along axis 206.

[0077] The stone fragment capture device 300 can include a container 302, an inlet socket 304, an outlet stem 306, and a filter 308. The container 302 can include a housing 310 that defines an internal space 312 and a lid 314. The container 302 can also include a first marker 316A and a second marker 316B.

[0078] The container 302 can be coupled to the handle 268 at the stem 270 ( Figure 6 ). The inlet socket 304 can be connected to the stem 270 such that the channel 274 can be connected to the internal space 312 of the housing 310. The inlet socket 304 can include a cylindrical opening that extends through the bottom plate 320 of the housing 310. The inlet socket 304 can include an elastic material having an opening that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the stem 270 such that a tight sealing fit therebetween can be achieved. The bottom plate 320 can include an annular disk or a polygonal plate that connects the inlet socket 304 to the housing 310. Similarly, the outlet stem 306 can include a cylindrical tube that extends from the sidewall 322. The lid 314 can include an end plate 324 that can include an annular disk connected to the sidewall 322. The lid 314 can be coupled or fastened to the housing 310 by any suitable means such as a threaded connection or a snap-fit connection. In an example, the collection tube 212 ( Figure 4 ) or the tube 276 ( Figure 6 ) can be integrally formed with the outlet stem 306 or connected to the outlet stem 306 via a barb connection similar to the barb 278 ( Figure 6 ). The container 302 can be directly coupled to the stem 246 of the handpiece 242 ( Figure 4 ), but the container 302 can also be coupled to the handpiece 242 via a tube that can be coupled around the stem 246 and inserted into, for example, the inlet socket 304.

[0079] The container 302 can be located between the handle 268 ( Figure 6 ) and the tube 276 ( Figure 6) to capture the stone fragments 330 leaving the channel 274. The stone fragments 330 can flow from the handle 268 through the channel 274 to the shaft 270. The filter 308 can be located in the container 302 to prevent the stone fragments 330 from leaving the container 302. The filter 308 can include a mesh bag or stocking with a mesh size smaller than the typical size of the stone fragments 330 to prevent the stone fragments 330 from flowing through the filter. The filter 308 can include a bag or cloth sack attached to the cap 314 and the inlet socket 304 extends through the filter 308 via a port or opening that can include a closure means such as a drawstring or rubber band to hold the filter 308 in close contact with the inlet socket 304. Thus, when the cap 314 is removed from the housing 310, the filter 308 and the stone fragments 330 can be removed together from the container 302. In an example, the filter 308 can be rotated relative to Figure 7 and attached to the bottom plate 320 such that the inlet socket 304 extends into the open end of the filter 308. The stone fragments 330 can be dispersed into the interior space 312 of the housing 310 within the filter 308. In an example, the housing 310 can extend beyond the end of the inlet socket 304 to provide space for the stone fragments 330 to enter the container 302. In an example, the end plate 324 of the cap 314 can be located at a distance from the end of the inlet socket 304 to allow the momentum of the stone fragments 330 to dissipate. Additionally, the stone fragment capture device 300 can include a baffle (such as Figure 6 baffle 267) to deflect the stone fragments 330 into the housing 310. A valve 332 can be located within the inlet socket 304 and can be used to intermittently close the inlet socket 304 to prevent the stone fragments 330 from escaping from the container 302. The valve 332 can include any suitable means for allowing flow into the housing 310 when the container 302 is attached to the shaft 270 and preventing the stone fragments 330 from leaving the housing 310 when the container 302 is detached from the shaft 270. In an example, the valve 332 can include a flap valve, a ball valve, a biasing stop, etc.

[0080] In Figure 7 example of the stone fragment capture device 300, the inlet socket 304 can be configured to extend along axis AA5 and can be angled relative to an outlet stem 306 extending along axis AA6. In the example shown, the inlet socket 304 and the outlet stem 306 are set at an angle of approximately ninety degrees. However, in other examples, the outlet stem 306 and the inlet socket 304 can be set at other angles. During operation of the stone fragment capture device 300, depending on the direction in which the surgeon uses a lithotripsy device attached to the stone fragment capture device 300, axes AA5 and AA6 can be set at different angles relative to the direction of gravity.

[0081] If the user holds the handle 268 (Figure 6 ) so that the axis AA5 is positioned perpendicularly with respect to Figure 7 the direction of, the stone fragments 330 will fall towards the bottom plate 320. If the user holds the handle 268( Figure 6 ) so that the axis AA6 is positioned perpendicularly, the stone fragments 330 will fall towards the housing 310. The housing 310, the bottom plate 320, and the end plate 324 may be made of a transparent material to allow viewing of the stone fragments through the container 302. Additionally or alternatively, the housing 310, the bottom plate 320, and the end plate 324 may include windows made of a transparent material to allow viewing of the stone fragments within the container 302. Multiple windows may be included to allow viewing of the container 302 from multiple directions. In an example, the transparent material may include glass or a plastic such as polycarbonate. The first marker 316A and the second marker 316B may be located on or near the transparent material to allow comparison with the stone fragments 330. Similar to Figure 6 the marker 290, the first marker 316A and the second marker 316B may be used to determine the depth, volume, size, color, etc. of the stone fragments 330.

[0082] The container 302 may be provided with markers to facilitate obtaining information from the stone fragments 330. For example, the first marker 316A may be provided along the housing 310 to provide one or more reference points with which the stone fragments 330 within the container 302 can be compared when the axis AA5 is vertical, and the second marker 316B may be provided along the housing 310 to provide one or more reference points with which the stone fragments 330 within the container 302 can be compared when the axis AA6 is vertical. In an example, the axis of the first marker 316A including a scale may be parallel to the inlet socket 304, and the axis of the second marker 316B including a scale may be parallel to the outlet stem 306.

[0083] In an example, the first marker 316A and the second marker 316B may include scales that indicate the distance along the housing 260. For example, the distance from the bottom plate 320 or the housing 310 may be indicated with a scale similar to a ruler. Such scales may facilitate determining dimensions such as the diameter of the stone fragments 330. Thus, a single stone fragment 330 can be positioned adjacent to the first marker 316A and the second marker 316B, such as by orienting or shaking the stone fragment capture device 300, to facilitate analysis of the single stone fragment 330.

[0084] In the example, the first marker 316A and the second marker 316B may include volume markers that indicate the volume of the material above the base plate 320, similar to a graduated cylinder, or similarly indicate the volume within the housing 310. For the first marker 316A, the volume can be determined by multiplying the area of the base plate 280 by the distance of each scale from the base plate 280. For the second marker 316B, the volume can be determined by first calculating the area = cos -1 ((r - h) / r)r 2 -(r - h)√(2rh - h2) (where r is the radius of the base plate 320 and h is the fluid height along the housing 310 at one scale of the second marker 316B), and then multiplying by the length of the housing 310 along which the second marker 316B extends. The user can position the stone fragment capture device 300 such that the base plate 320 is positioned downward relative to gravity so that the stone fragments 330 fall onto the base plate 320 to use the first marker 316A in an upright position. The user can shake the stone fragment capture device 300 to move the stone fragments 330 closer to the base plate 320 and eliminate the gaps between adjacent stone fragments. However, if the user is not convenient or comfortable positioning the base plate 320 downward to use the first marker 316A in an upright position, the user can position the housing 310 downward such that the base plate 320 and the end plate 324 are perpendicular to use the second marker 316B. In this way, the stone fragment capture device 300 can allow the user to find a more comfortable position to orient the stone fragment capture device 300 to analyze or evaluate the stone fragments 330, thereby reducing the need to reposition the lithotripter device or the need to remove the lithotripter device from the patient's body.

[0085] Figure 8A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device 350 suitable for use with any lithotripter system described herein or another surgical system configured to generate suction therethrough. The stone fragment capture device 350 can be used with Figure 1 the lithotripter system 100, which can radially deliver fragmentation energy along the probe 114, and with Figure 2 the lithotripter system 200, which can longitudinally deliver fragmentation energy along the axis 206.

[0086] The stone fragment capture device 350 can include a container 352, an inlet stem 354, an outlet stem 356, and a filter 358. The container 352 can include a housing 360 (which defines an internal space 362) and a lid 364. The container 352 can also include a marker 366A. The inlet stem 354 can include a side wall 368, an end wall 370, a neck 372, and an insert 374. The lid 364 can be coupled or fastened to the side wall 368 via a threaded engagement 376. The outlet stem 356 can extend from the side wall 368 and can include a neck 378 and barbs 380. Stone fragments 384 can be located within the container 352.

[0087] Figure 8A The stone fragment capture device 350 can be configured similarly to Figure 6 the stone fragment capture device 252, except that the outlet port 266 and the tube 276 can be configured to extend from the housing 260 rather than the end plate 282 and the inlet port 264 can include an insert 374. Additionally, the stone fragment capture device 350 can be configured to rotate about an axis AA7. The insert 374 can include a socket 382 having a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the stem 270. The insert 374 can be made of an elastic material such that the material can be displaced when the stem 270 is present within the socket 382. The barbs 278 can further displace the material of the insert 374 to prevent the stone fragment capture device 350 from axially displacing along the axis AA7. However, the elasticity of the insert 374 can be such that rotational movement of the stone fragment capture device 350 about the axis AA7 is not prevented. Thus, when the user operates the device, the stone fragment capture device 350 can rotate relative to the handle 268 ( Figure 6 ). In other examples, other types of rotatable tube couplings can be used, such as a rotary connector for a hose, etc.

[0088] As described herein, the container 352 can be made of a transparent material or can include one or more windows of a transparent material. The marker 366A can be located on or near the transparent material to allow comparison of the stone fragment 384 with the marker 366A. As described herein, the marker 366A can include numerical information, text information, symbols, etc. to allow assessment and analysis of the stone fragment 384 related to depth, volume, size, color, etc. In the example shown, a single set of markers 366A is provided on the container 352 for reading in a specific orientation or range of orientations of the container 352. However, the container 352 can include multiple sets of markers to facilitate assessment and analysis of the stone fragment 384 in multiple directions. The container 352 can additionally include a marker 366B that provides the same information as the marker 366A in a different direction. Alternatively, the marker 366B can be configured to provide information different from the marker 366A. For example, the marker 366A can be configured to provide volume information while the marker 366B can be configured to provide color information.

[0089] Figure 8B is a perspective view of a deformable valve 386 for use with the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure. Figure 8C is Figure 8B a cross-sectional view of the deformable valve 386, which shows a flow path configured to receive a tube coupler (such as a rod) and a deflectable interlocking feature to close the valve. Figure 8B and Figure 8C will be discussed together.

[0090] The deformable valve 386 can include a body 388 that includes an inlet portion 390, an outlet portion 391, a notch 392, and a fluid passage 394. The fluid passage 394 can include an inlet 395, a spherical portion 396, an interlocking section 397, and an outlet 398.

[0091] The deformable valve 386 can be configured to Figure 8A be an alternative to the insert 374 of Figure 8A Thus, the deformable valve 386 can be configured and sized to be disposed within the sidewall 368 of the stone fragment capture device 350 of Figure 6 In additional examples, the deformable valve 386 can be used in other stone fragment capture devices of the present disclosure, such as to replace the valve 254 of Figure 7 the valve 332 of

[0092] The body 388 can be made of an elastic material such as rubber, nitrile rubber, polymer, etc. The inlet portion 390 can be configured to receive fluid input from a lithotripter device. In the example, the rod 270 ( Figure 8A) can be inserted into the inlet portion 390 at the fluid passage 394. The outlet portion 391 can be configured to abut Figure 8A the end wall 370 within the stone fragment capture device 350 of

[0093] The inlet 395 can include a tapered entry portion to facilitate entry of the rod 270 into the fluid passage 394. The inlet 395 can additionally include a cylindrical portion fluidly connected to the spherical portion 396. The spherical portion 396 can provide space within the body 388 for accommodating the rod 270. The spherical portion 396 can additionally contribute to forming a thinning portion of the body 388 near the notch 392 to facilitate bending of the body 388 at the interlocking section 397. The inlet 395 can be narrower than the spherical portion 396 to provide a tight seal around the rod 270. The interlocking section 397 can include opposing faces having interlocking features (such as ridges, grooves, etc.) that can form a tortuous path therebetween. Thus, when the opposing faces of the interlocking section 397 abut each other, they can form a seal to prevent fluid from passing therebetween. The opposing faces of the interlocking section 397 can be configured to abut each other in a stationary or undeformed or unstretched state. The outlet 398 can include a cylindrical channel fluidly coupled to the interlocking section 397. Thus, when the interlocking section 397 is closed, the inlet 395 can be fluidly isolated from the outlet 398, and when the interlocking section 397 is open, the inlet 395 can be fluidly connected to the outlet 398.

[0094] In Figure 8C the state shown, such as when the rod 270 is not inserted into the inlet 395, the opposing faces of the interlocking section 397 can be pressed against each other to prevent fluid from flowing through the deformable valve 386. The rod 270 can be inserted into the inlet 395 and can be pushed into the interlocking section 397 to push the opposing faces of the interlocking section 397 away from each other. In this way, the fluid exiting the rod 270 can flow into the outlet 398. Thus, the fluid can pass through the deformable valve 386. After the operation, when the rod 270 is removed from the deformable valve 386, the stone fragments 384 within the internal space 362 ( Figure 8A ) are prohibited from leaving the stone fragment capture device 350 through the deformable valve 386. In an example, another instance of the deformable valve 386 can be provided on the outlet rod 356 ( Figure 8A ) to prevent fluid from passing therethrough and leaving.

[0095] Figure 8D is a perspective view of a deformable valve 334 suitable for use with the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure. Figure 8E isFigure 8D Cross-sectional view of the deformable valve 334, which shows a conical flow path configured to receive a tube connector (such as a rod) and a deflectable flap feature to close the valve. Figure 8D And Figure 8E discussed together.

[0096] The deformable valve 334 may include a body 336, the body 336 including an inlet edge 338, a conical tube 339, an outlet end 340, and a fluid passage 342. The fluid passage 342 may include an inlet 344 and a conical portion 346.

[0097] The deformable valve 334 may be configured to Figure 8A replace the insert 374 of Figure 8A . Thus, the deformable valve 334 may be configured and sized to be disposed within the sidewall 368 of the stone fragment capture device 350 of Figure 6 . In additional examples, the deformable valve 334 may be used in other stone fragment capture devices of the present disclosure, such as to replace the valve 254 of Figure 7 , replace the valve 332 of

[0098] and other locations (such as where a rod is located or may be located). Figure 8A ) may be inserted into the inlet edge 338 at the fluid passage 342. The inlet edge 338 may be configured to abut the bottom of the housing 360 of the stone fragment capture device 350 of Figure 8A opposite the lid 364. The outlet end 340 may be configured to extend to or closely adjacent the neck 372 ( Figure 8A ). The conical tube 339 may include a cylindrical tube near the inlet edge 338, which may flatten at the outlet end 340. Opposing walls of the conical tube 339 may abut each other at the outlet end 340 to form a valve therebetween. In an example, the deformable valve 334 may be configured as a duckbill valve or similar to a duckbill valve.

[0099] The inlet 344 may include a tapered entry portion to facilitate entry of the rod 270 into the fluid passage 342. The inlet 344 may additionally include a cylindrical portion 348 that is fluidly connected to the tapered portion 346. The inlet 344 and the tapered portion 346 may be sized to provide space within the body 336 for receiving the rod 270. The body 336 may include a thin-walled body to facilitate bending at the outlet end 340. The cylindrical portion 348 of the inlet 344 may form a neck to provide a tight seal around the rod 270. The outlet end 340 may include opposing faces 349 that are adjacent to each other, thereby forming a seal to prevent fluid from passing therebetween. The opposing faces 349 of the outlet end 340 may be configured to be adjacent to each other in a stationary or undeformed or unstretched state. When the opposing faces 349 are opened, they may form a cylindrical channel that is fluidly coupled to the inlet 344. Thus, when the opposing faces 349 are closed, fluid within the inlet 344 may be prevented from leaving the deformable valve 334, and when the opposing faces are opened, fluid may be permitted to leave the deformable valve 334.

[0100] In Figure 8E the state shown, such as when the rod 270 is not inserted into the inlet 344, the opposing faces 349 of the tapered portion 346 may be pressed against each other at the outlet end 340 to prevent fluid from flowing through the deformable valve 334. The rod 270 may be inserted into the inlet 344 and may be pushed into the tapered portion 346 to push the opposing faces 349 away from each other. In this way, fluid leaving the rod 270 may flow through the tapered portion 346 and out of the outlet end 340. Thus, fluid may pass through the deformable valve 334. After the operation, when the rod 270 is removed from the deformable valve 334, the stone fragments 384 within the internal space 362 ( Figure 8A ) are left stationary by the stone fragment capture device 350. In an example, another instance of the deformable valve 334 may be provided on the outlet rod 356 ( Figure 8A ) to prevent stone fluid from leaving through it.

[0101] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device 450 suitable for use with any lithotripsy system described herein or another surgical system configured to generate suction therethrough. The stone fragment capture device 450 may be used with Figure 1 the lithotripsy system 100 that may deliver fragmentation energy radially along the probe 114, and with Figure 2 the lithotripsy system 200 that may deliver fragmentation energy longitudinally along the axis 206.

[0102] The stone fragment capture device 450 includes a container 452, an inlet socket 454, an outlet socket 456, and a filter 458. The container 452 may include a housing 460 defining an internal space 462 and a lid 464. The container 452 may also include a marker 466. The inlet socket 454 may include a first channel 468, and the outlet socket 456 may include a second channel 470. The lid 464 may be coupled to the housing 460 via a threaded engagement 472. Waste liquid 474 and stone fragments 476 may be located within the container 452.

[0103] The stone fragment capture device 450 may be configured to allow both the shaft 246 of the handpiece 242 ( Figure 4 ) and the collection tube 212 ( Figure 4 ) to be attached to the lid 464. Thus, the shaft 246 may be inserted into the inlet socket 454, and the collection tube 212 may be inserted into the outlet socket 456. The first channel 468 may direct the material entering the inlet socket 454 towards the container 452, and the second channel 470 may fluidly connect the container 452 to the outlet socket 456. Thus, the stone fragments 476 may flow into the stone fragment capture device 450 at the inlet socket 454, pass through the first channel 468 and into the filter 458 within the container 452. The filter 458 may include a bag or sock of mesh material that allows fluid to pass through the filter 458 and continue through the second channel 470 and the outlet socket 456. Thus, the inlet socket 454 and the outlet socket 456 may extend along an axis AA9 that is axially aligned with the axis AA3 of the handpiece 242 ( Figure 4 ), but the marker 466 may be perpendicular to the axis AA9 and the handpiece 242. Thus, the stone fragment capture device 450 may facilitate the use of the handheld probe 202 ( Figure 4 ) in a manner where the axis AA3 and the axis AA9 are horizontal or substantially horizontal for a contralateral approach.

[0104] Figure 6 The stone fragment capture device 252, Figure 7 The stone fragment capture device 300, Figure 8A The stone fragment capture device 350, and Figure 9 The stone fragment capture device 450 may be configured similarly to one another to allow the user to determine the depth, volume, size, color, etc. of the stone fragments within the container. In particular, the stone fragment capture device 252, the stone fragment capture device 300, the stone fragment capture device 350, and the stone fragment capture device 450 may include housings (such as Figure 6 The housing 260, Figure 7 The housing 310, Figure 8A The housing 360, and Figure 9a housing 460), such as a rigid or flexible container. In this way, the stone fragments leaving the handle 204 can directly enter the stone fragment capture device 252, the stone fragment capture device 300, the stone fragment capture device 350, and the stone fragment capture device 450. The housing may include a filtering element to capture stone fragments within the housing while allowing liquid material to pass through the housing. The housing can be opened to allow access to and removal of the stone fragments.

[0105] The housing shown has been described as a cylindrical body, but may additionally include a rectangular body, a hexagonal body (e.g., a hexagonal prism), an octagonal body (e.g., an octagonal prism), or other shapes.

[0106] The stone fragment capture device 252 and the stone fragment capture device 450 may allow a tube (such as the collection tube 212( Figure 4 )) to extend in the same direction as the rod 246 (e.g., axially from the handle 204). The stone fragment capture device 252 may have markings aligned in the same direction. The stone fragment capture device 450 may have markings at an angle thereto. The stone fragment capture device 300 and the stone fragment capture device 350 may allow a tube (such as the collection tube 212( Figure 4 )) to extend in a different direction from the rod 246 (e.g., at an angle to the handle 204 or radially). The stone fragment capture device 300 and the stone fragment capture device 350 may have markings aligned therewith or at an angle thereto.

[0107] The housing may be fixedly attached to the handle 204 such that the housing is stationary. The housing may also be movably attached to the handpiece 242 such that the housing can be rotated to reposition the collection tube 242 to change the circumferential position. The housing may be installed and removed from the handle 204 by the user. The housing may be integrated with the handle 204, for example, be made integral, such that the user cannot remove it.

[0108] The markings may be provided on the housing of the stone fragment capture device in one or more directions to allow determination of the volume in more than one direction of the stone fragment capture device. The markings may include visual markings, e.g., numbers, text, symbols, etc., to facilitate determination of the volume of the captured stone fragments or the size of the captured stone fragments.

[0109] The features of the stone fragment capture device 252, the stone fragment capture device 300, the stone fragment capture device 350, and the stone fragment capture device 450 may be interchangeable to achieve different combinations of features other than Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8A and Figure 9 the combinations of features shown.

[0110] Figure 10Schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device 400 adapted to be used with any lithotripsy system described herein or another surgical system configured to generate suction therethrough. The stone fragment capture device 400 can be used with Figure 1 lithotripsy system 100, which can radially deliver fragmentation energy along probe 114, and with Figure 2 lithotripsy system 200, which can longitudinally deliver fragmentation energy along axis 206.

[0111] The stone fragment capture device 400 can include a container 402, an inlet stem 404, an outlet stem 406, and a filter 408. The container 402 can include a housing 410 defining an interior space 412 and a lid 414. The container 402 can also include markings 416. The inlet stem 404 can include a first leg 418A, an intermediate portion 420, and a second leg 418B. The lid 414 can be coupled to the housing 410 by a threaded engagement 422. The outlet stem 406 can extend from the housing 410 and can include a neck 424 and barbs 426. Waste fluid 427 and stone fragments 428 can be located within the container 402.

[0112] The first leg 418A can be coupled to the rod 246 ( Figure 4) is connected to the handheld part 242. The second leg 418B can be attached to the lid 414 in a fixed or rotatable manner. The middle part 420 can extend between the first leg 418A and the second leg 418B along the axis AA10. As described below, at least one of the first leg 418A, the second leg 418B, and the middle part 420 can be flexible to allow the stone fragment capture device 400 to be in a variable orientation relative to the handheld part 242. However, the inlet rod 404 can be pre-bent or pre-formed such that the first leg 418A and the second leg 418B are U-shaped and perpendicular or angled relative to the axis AA10. The first leg 418A, the second leg 418B, and the middle part 420 are shown as being connected at right angles, but can also be connected by curved or rounded sections to form a smooth path therethrough. The inlet rod 404 can be configured to enter the stone fragment capture device 400 through the lid 414 and exit the stone fragment capture device 400 along the axis AA11 at the outlet rod 406 through the housing 410. In the example shown, the outlet rod 406 is located near the top of the housing 410. Positioning the outlet rod near the top of the housing 410 can be advantageous to prevent stone fragments 428 from clogging the outlet rod 406. However, the outlet rod 406 can be positioned to exit from the bottom of the housing 410 or the bottom of the housing 410 opposite the inlet rod 404 to facilitate the discharge of the waste liquid 427 from the housing 410. It can be advantageous to allow the stone fragments 428 to enter the stone fragment capture device 400 through the lid 414 such that the stone fragments 428 accumulate at the bottom of the housing 410 and thus align with the marker 416. In the example shown, the housing 410 is shown as having a curved bottom, but can have a flat bottom to facilitate the accumulation of the stone fragments 428 relative to the marker 416 in a uniform or consistent manner.

[0113] The stone fragment capture device 400 can be similar to Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8A and Figure 9 stone fragment capture devices configured such that a housing having a filter element and a marker can be attached to a lithotripter handle to capture stone fragments in a container, which allows the captured stone fragments to be viewed relative to the marker to determine the depth, volume, size, color, or other parameters of the captured stone fragments. However, the stone fragment capture device 400 can be coupled to the handle 204 in a variable manner to allow the container 402 to be positioned in a plurality of different orientations. In particular, all or a portion of the inlet rod 404 can be configured to bend and / or flex to allow the stone fragment capture device 400 to be positioned in different orientations relative to the handheld part 242 ( Figure 4 ).

[0114] In an example, one or more of the first leg 418A, the second leg 418B, and the middle portion 420 may include a flexible tube. When the user manipulates the handpiece 242 ( Figure 4 ) during a surgical procedure, the inlet stem 404 can bend and / or flex. Thus, during use, the bottom of the housing 410 can remain oriented downward relative to gravity, facilitating alignment of the stone fragments 428 with the marker 416 and positioning the marker 416 in a direction for the user to read. For example, if the handpiece 242 is used such that the axis AA3 ( Figure 4 ) connected to the first leg 418A is vertical, the stone fragment capture device 400 can also remain vertical (in the direction shown in Figure 10 ), such that the marker 416 is vertical, due to, for example, the pre-bent shape of the first leg 418A and the second leg 418B relative to the middle portion 420. Thus, the pre-bend of the inlet stem 404 can be strong enough to hold the inlet stem 404 in a pre-bent U-shape. However, if the handpiece 242 is used such that the axis AA3 ( Figure 4 ) is horizontal, the inlet stem 404 can flex such that the stone fragment capture device 400 can remain vertical (in the direction shown in Figure 10 ), such that the marker 416 is vertical. Thus, the inlet stem 404 can be flexible enough to allow it to bend out of the pre-bent U-shape.

[0115] One benefit of the stone fragment capture device of the present disclosure is the ability of stone fragments to flow directly into the described stone fragment capture device, avoiding the possibility of blockage of a tube (e.g., the collection tube 212 ( Figure 4 )). To reduce or eliminate the chance of blockage of the inlet stem 404, the inlet stem 404 can be made of a material soft enough to allow flexure but rigid enough to prevent collapse (such as due to bending or the suction drawn through it). In an example, the first leg 418A, the second leg 418B, and the middle portion 420 can be made of plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In an example, the first leg 418A and the middle portion 420 can include a rigid tube, and the second leg 418B can include a flexible tube. In an example, the first leg 418A and the second leg 418B can include a rigid tube, and the middle portion 420 can include a flexible tube. Additionally, the inlet stem 404 is shorter, thereby reducing the chance of stone fragments becoming blocked therein. In an example, the total length of the inlet stem 404 including the first leg 418A, the second leg 418B, and the middle portion 420 can be less than about ten inches (~25.4 cm). In an example, the diameter of the inlet stem 404 can be greater than that of the collection tube 212 ( Figure 4), to prevent blockage caused by stone fragments 428. In the example, the wall thickness of one or more of the first leg 418A, the second leg 418B, and the middle portion 420 can be thicker than the others and / or thicker than the collection tube 212( Figure 4 ) is thicker.

[0116] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device 500 adapted to be used with any lithotripsy system described herein or another surgical system configured to generate suction therethrough. The stone fragment capture device 500 can be used with Figure 1 the lithotripsy system 100, which can radially deliver fragmentation energy along the probe 114, and with Figure 2 the lithotripsy system 200, which can longitudinally deliver fragmentation energy along the axis 206.

[0117] The stone fragment capture device 500 can include a tube 502, a coupler 504, an outlet stem 506, and a filter 508. The tube 502 can include an elongated body 510 defining an internal space 512 and an opening 514. The tube 502 can also include markings 516. The stone fragment capture device 500 can also include a coupler 504, which can be used to attach to a rod 270 such as a handle 268( Figure 6 ). Waste liquid 520 (as indicated by the arrow) and stone fragments 522 can be located within the tube 502.

[0118] The coupler 504 can include a cylindrical body having a socket 524. The rod 246 of the handpiece 242( Figure 4 ) can be inserted into the socket 524 to couple the stone fragment capture device 500 to the handle 268. The coupler 504 can include a body integral with the elongated body 510 or can be attached to the elongated body 510 by an interference fit, an adhesive, etc. The outlet stem 506 can be attached to the elongated body 510 or can be integral with the elongated body 510. The outlet stem 506 can include a tube such as the collection tube 212( Figure 2 ) that extends into the stone fragment canister 222. In the example, a tube such as the collection tube 212 can be inserted into the outlet stem 506 or disposed around the outlet stem 506.

[0119] As described, it may be desirable to provide flexibility between the stone fragment capture device and the lithotripter to allow viewing of the markers at a desired location, but it may also be desirable to have no tube section extending from the lithotripter to prevent stone fragments from clogging or getting stuck in the tube before reaching the stone fragment capture device. The stone fragment capture device 500 addresses both of these concerns by providing a flexible stone fragment capture device rather than just a flexible coupler. The stone fragment capture device 500 may include a plurality of concentric bodies, which include a tube 502 and a filter 508. The tube 502 and the filter 508 may include flexible bodies, allowing the proximal end of the stone fragment capture device 500 to change position relative to the handpiece 242 ( Figure 4 ) while the distal end of the stone fragment capture device 500 is attached to the handpiece 242. The tube 502 may include a widened extension of the exit stem 506. In an example, the tube 502 may include a section of PVC tubing. The filter 508 may include a section of flexible stocking or mesh bag, which may extend within the tube 502 along axis AA12. In an example, the filter 508 may include a section of flexible tubing having openings 514. Thus, the filter 508 may allow waste fluid to flow therethrough while stone fragments 522 may be retained and captured therein.

[0120] Markers 516 may be provided on one or both of the elongate body 510 and the filter 508 to allow measurement of the volume or size of the stone fragments 522. The elongate body 510 and the filter 508 may be made of a transparent material or a material that allows viewing therethrough (such as a mesh, netting, or filtering material) to allow viewing of the stone fragments 522. In an example, the elongate body 510 and the filter 508 may include flexible transparent tubing, and the markers may be provided on the elongate body 510. In an example, the filter 508 may include a filter bag through which the stone fragments 522 can be seen, and the elongate body 510 may include a transparent tube having markers 516 located thereon. Other combinations may also be used. Since both the tube 502 and the filter 508 are flexible, the stone fragment capture device 500 can be positioned in the direction of reading the markers 516 regardless of the position of the handpiece 242. The markers 516 may be configured as described herein to provide feedback, assessment, and analysis of the depth, volume, size, color, etc. of the stone fragments 522, such as by including numbers, text, symbol markings, etc.

[0121] Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device 550 suitable for use with any lithotripsy system described herein or another surgical system configured to generate suction therethrough. The stone fragment capture device 550 may be used with Figure 1 the lithotripsy system 100, which may deliver fragmentation energy radially along the probe 114, and with Figure 2for use with a lithotripsy system 200 that can longitudinally deliver fragmentation energy along axis 206.

[0122] The stone fragment capture device 550 can include a tube 552, an inlet stem 554, and an outlet stem 556. The tube 552 can further include a filtration section 558 and a storage section 560. The tube 552 can include an internal space 562 within which the filtration section 558 is located. The storage section 560 can include a housing 564 extending from the tube 552. The storage section 560 can include an internal space 566 that is in fluid communication with the internal space 562. The housing 564 can include a marker 568. The filtration section 558 can include an inner wall 570, a first filter element 572, and a second filter element 574. Waste fluid 576 (as indicated by the arrow) and stone fragments 578 can be located within the tube 502. The tube 552 can be configured to extend along axis AA13.

[0123] The stone fragment capture device 550 can include a gravity trap where the stone fragments 578 can become trapped within the storage section 560 while the waste fluid 576 can pass through the tube 552. The waste fluid 576 can enter the stone fragment capture device 550 at the inlet stem 554 after passing through a valve 580. The waste fluid 576 can flow into the filtration section 558 within the tube 502 by passing through the first filter element 572. The waste fluid 576 can also flow into the internal space 566 and enter the filtration section 558 through the second filter element 574. Starting from the filtration section 558, the waste fluid 576 can leave the stone fragment capture device 550 through the outlet stem 556 and a valve 582. Thus, the waste fluid 576 can be permitted to pass through the stone fragment capture device 550.

[0124] The stone fragments 578 can enter the stone fragment capture device 550 at the inlet stem 554 after passing through a valve 580. In an example, the inlet stem 554 can directly receive the stem 246 ( Figure 4 ). The stone fragments 578 can be prevented from flowing into the filtration section 558 within the tube 502 by the first filter element 572. The stone fragments 578 can also flow into the internal space 566 and be blocked from flowing into the filtration section 558 by the second filter element 574. Thus, the stone fragments 578 can be prevented from leaving the stone fragment capture device 550 and passing through the outlet stem 556 and a valve 582 by the first filter element 572 and the second filter element 574. As mentioned, gravity can facilitate the entry of the stone fragments 578 into the internal space 566 where the stone fragments 578 are out of the path of the first filter element 572 to allow the waste fluid 576 to pass through the first filter element 572 mostly unobstructed.

[0125] The storage section 560 can include a housing or container located on one side of the tube 552 and offset from axis AA13. The stone fragment capture device 550 can be connected to the handpiece 242 (Figure 4 ) such that when the user operates the device, the storage portion 560 is located below. Thus, the stone fragments 578 can be pushed downward by gravity into the internal space 566. The first filter element 572 can be angled to deflect the stone fragments 578 towards the internal space 566.

[0126] With Figure 11 the stone fragment capture device 500 being similar, the stone fragment capture device 550 can be configured to flex to facilitate orienting the markings 568 in multiple directions. One or both of the tube 552 and the storage portion 560 can be configured to flex. Thus, the proximal end of the stone fragment capture device 550 can change position relative to the handpiece 242 ( Figure 4 ), while the distal end of the stone fragment capture device 550 can be attached to the handpiece 242. The storage portion 560 can be made of a transparent material or can include a window of a transparent material, and the markings 516 can be positioned along the window. The markings 568 can be configured as described herein to provide feedback, assessment, and analysis of the depth, volume, size, color, etc. of the stone fragments 522, such as by including numbers, text, graphics, symbol markings, etc.

[0127] Figure 13 FIG. is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device 600 having a stent 602 and a flexible hose 604. The flexible hose 604 can be wound into a coil within the stent 602 to form a helical catcher. The stent 602 can include a base 606, a spool 608, a stop 610, and a strut 612. The flexible hose 604 can be wound into a coil portion 614 and have a straight portion 616 including markings 618. The flexible hose 604 can have ends connected to an inlet valve 622 and an outlet valve 624 respectively. The inlet valve 622 and the outlet valve 624 can be connected to a tube 626 and a tube 628 respectively.

[0128] Waste liquid and stone fragments can flow from the tube 626 into the stone fragment capture device 600, and the tube 626 can include a plug ( Figure 4 ) fluidly connected to the handpiece 242. The waste liquid and stone fragments can pass through the inlet valve 622 and enter the flexible hose 604. The waste liquid and stone fragments can enter the coil portion 614 during use, where the stone fragments will accumulate at the bottom of the coil of the flexible hose 604. The weight of the stone fragments is sufficient to keep the stone fragments at the bottom of the coil portion 614, while the waste liquid continues to pass through. The waste liquid can continue to enter the straight portion 616 and continue to pass through the outlet valve 624 and into the tube 628. The straight portion 616 can be formed by engagement with the strut 612, and the strut 612 can include a flat surface with which the flexible hose 604 can engage. The tube 628 can include a plug or tube connected to the container 232 ( Figure 3 ), such as the collection tube 212 ( Figure 4 ).

[0129] During the operation, the stone fragment capture device 600 can be positioned such that the outlet valve 624 is positioned downward and the marker 618 extends longitudinally upward therefrom. Thus, the stone fragments within the hose 604 can be collected at one end of the hose. The hose 604 can be made of a transparent material to facilitate viewing of the stone fragments therein. Additionally, after or during the operation, the hose 604 can be removed from the stent 602 and untied to facilitate movement of the stone fragments toward the end of the hose with the marker 618. The inlet valve 622 and the outlet valve 624 can be closed to seal the stone fragments within the hose 604. The inlet valve 622 and the outlet valve 624 can include any suitable valve, such as a ball valve, a flap valve, a biased stopper, etc. In an example, the inlet valve 622 and the outlet valve 624 can be configured to bias toward the closed position and open when the tubes 626 and 628 are inserted therein respectively. In an example, the hose 604 can be cut after the operation is completed to obtain the stone fragments therein, so that the stones can be obtained for laboratory analysis.

[0130] Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stone fragment capture device 650 including a vortex or cyclone trap. The stone fragment capture device 650 can include a housing 652, an inlet port 654, and a fluid outlet 656 and a fragment outlet 658. The housing 652 can include a cylindrical portion 660, a vortex body 662, and a fragment trap 664. The housing 652 can extend along an axis AA14.

[0131] The housing 652 can be arranged such that the axis AA14 extends longitudinally. However, the stone fragment capture device 650 can operate in other directions. The tube or handle of the lithotripter device can be connected to the inlet port 654 to convey the stone fragments 668 and the waste liquid 670 to the stone fragment capture device 650. The fluid outlet 656 can be connected to a tube connected to the container 232 ( Figure 3 )). The fragment outlet 658 can be connected to a container 672 to collect the stone fragments 668. A marker 674 can be provided on the container 672. The stone fragment capture device 650 can be configured to cause the stone fragments 668 to leave the stone fragment capture device 650 from the fragment outlet 658, while the waste liquid separated from the stone fragments 668 can leave the stone fragment capture device 650 from the fluid outlet 656.

[0132] In operation, the waste liquid 670 and the stone fragments 668 can enter the cylindrical portion 660. The stone fragments 668 and the waste liquid 670 can impinge on the cylindrical portion 660 and can be caused to move downward (in Figure 14In the rightward direction in the middle), it is aspirated. As the waste liquid 670 and the stone fragments 668 travel downward along the vortex body, since the mass of the stone fragments 668 is greater than that of the waste liquid 670, the stone fragments 668 will fall into the fragment catcher 664 and can be collected in the container 672. However, the waste liquid 670 can be sucked back upward by the double-vortex phenomenon known in the art. In the example, auxiliary air such as clean ambient air can be introduced into the cylindrical portion 660 or the vortex body 662 perpendicular to the axis AA13 to promote the generation of the vortex flow.

[0133] The container 672 can include a transparent body or a body with a transparent window through which the stone fragments 668 can be viewed. The marker 674 can be located on the container 672 to facilitate the measurement or evaluation of the stone fragments 668 as disclosed herein.

[0134] In the example, the markers, text information, digital information, symbol information, etc. described herein and the related methods for obtaining, determining, evaluating, and extracting information such as volume, depth, size, color, etc. from the captured stone fragments described herein can be used together with the stone fragment capture devices and systems described in the disclosure No. US2022 / 0047283A1 entitled "Stone Fragment Capture Systems for Lithotripsy Systems" by Baker et al. and assigned to Gyrus ACMI Limited, the entire content of which is incorporated herein.

[0135] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing a method 700 of retrieving stone fragments from a lithotripsy procedure using the stone fragment capture device and system of the present disclosure. The method 700 shows various exemplary operations and steps of the stone fragment recovery process. Other operations and steps described herein can be included, and some operations and steps can be omitted. Additionally, the shown operation steps can be performed in a different order.

[0136] In operation 702, a surgical device such as one of the lithotripsy devices disclosed herein (e.g., the lithotripter 102 and the handheld probe 202) is used to break a stone in a patient's body. For example, the shaft 206 of the handheld probe 202 can be inserted into an incision in the patient and into an anatomical structure such as the kidney to reach a physiological stone (e.g., a calculus) in order to break such a stone using various forms of energy. It can be used Figure 6 the stone fragment capture device 252, Figure 7 the stone fragment capture device 300, Figure 8A the stone fragment capture device 350, Figure 9 the stone fragment capture device 450, Figure 10the stone fragment capture device 400, Figure 11 the stone fragment capture device 500, Figure 12 the stone fragment capture device 550, Figure 13 the stone fragment capture device 600, Figure 14 the stone fragment capture device 650.

[0137] At operation 704, the valve of the stone fragment capture device (such as an inlet valve (e.g., Figure 6 the valve 254, Figure 7 the valve 332, the outlet valve 624)) can be opened, such as by applying a vacuum via the medical device used in operation 702. The valve can be opened by inserting a rod 270 ( Figure 6 ) into the stone fragment capture device. Thus, the valve can be opened to allow stone fragments and waste liquid to enter the stone fragment capture device, but can be closed when the rod 270 is removed to prevent the stone fragments from leaving the stone fragment capture device. Figure 6 the stone fragment capture device 252, Figure 7 the stone fragment capture device 300, Figure 8A the stone fragment capture device 350, Figure 9 the stone fragment capture device 450, Figure 10 the stone fragment capture device 400, Figure 11 the stone fragment capture device 500, Figure 12 the stone fragment capture device 550, Figure 13 the stone fragment capture device 600, Figure 14 the stone fragment capture device 650 can each be equipped with an inlet valve to allow inflow and prevent outflow, such as into a stone fragment capture area having a filtered outlet.

[0138] At operation 706, the stone fragments pulled by the vacuum through the stone fragment capture device can engage with the capture elements within the stone fragment capture device (such as a conical tube (e.g., inlet port 264, inlet socket 304, neck 372), a filter (e.g., filter 256, filter 308, filter 358, filter 458, filter 408, filter 508, first filter element 572, etc.), a valve (e.g., valve 254, valve 332), an orifice (e.g., opening 514) or a baffle (e.g., baffle 267)). Thus, the stone fragments (e.g., Figure 6 the stone fragment 284, Figure 7 the stone fragment 330, Figure 8A the stone fragment 384, Figure 9 the stone fragment 476, Figure 10 the stone fragment 428, Figure 11 the stone fragment 522, Figure 12Stone fragments such as 578 can be separated from the waste liquid flow passing through the stone fragment capture device.

[0139] At operation 708, the stone fragments can be diverted from the main fluid passing through the stone fragment capture device for deposition within a container (e.g., container 258, container 302, container 352, container 402, container 452, container 672) of the stone fragment capture device. The stone fragments disposed within the stone fragment capture device can impinge on a filter (e.g., filter 256, filter 308, filter 358, filter 458, filter 408, etc.) within the stone fragment capture device, thereby allowing only liquid and solids small enough to pass therethrough. Accordingly, stone fragments (e.g., Figure 6 stone fragment 284, Figure 7 stone fragment 330, Figure 8A stone fragment 384, Figure 9 stone fragment 476, Figure 10 stone fragment 428, Figure 11 stone fragment 522, Figure 12 stone fragment 578, etc.) can be captured within the housing, container, or filter of each respective stone fragment capture device for analysis at operation 714.

[0140] At operation 710, blockages (if any) can be cleared from the surgical device, such as by extending a probe through the vacuum port into the stone fragment capture device, through the stone fragment capture device, and into the shaft of the surgical device to clear the blockage.

[0141] At operation 712, the stone fragment capture device can be oriented to position the captured stone fragments with a marker. In an example, the user can orient the stone fragment capture device such that the axis of the marker is aligned in the vertical direction. For example, Figure 6 axis AA4, Figure 7 axis AA5 or axis AA6, Figure 8A axis AA7, and Figure 11 axis AA12 can be vertically oriented to allow the captured stone fragments to fall to the bottom of the stone fragment capture device due to gravity. In an example, Figure 9 axis AA9, and Figure 10 axis AA10 can be horizontally oriented to allow the captured stone fragments to fall to the bottom of the stone fragment capture device due to gravity. The stone fragment capture device can be shaken or vibrated to facilitate the settling of the stone fragments to the bottom of the stone fragment capture device and to eliminate voids between adjacent stone fragments. Accordingly, stone fragments (e.g., Figure 6 stone fragment 284, Figure 7 stone fragment 330, Figure 8A stone fragment 384, Figure 9Stone fragments 476, Figure 10 Stone fragments 428, Figure 11 Stone fragments 522, Figure 12 The stone fragments 578, etc.) can be set in close proximity to the marker (e.g., Figure 6 Mark 290, Figure 7 The first mark 316A or the second mark 316B, Figure 8A Mark 366A or Mark 366B, Figure 9 Mark 466, Figure 10 Mark 416, Figure 11 Mark 516, Figure 12 Mark 568, Figure 13 Mark 618, Figure 14 marker 674) so that the captured stone fragments can be compared with information associated with the marker to extract, obtain or evaluate information.

[0142] At operation 714, the stone fragments can be compared to the markings to obtain information related to the stone fragments. The markings can be read while the procedure is being performed to obtain various types of information related to the stone fragments. For example, the markings can provide an indication of depth (e.g., the total depth of all captured stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device), volume (e.g., the volume of all captured stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device), size (e.g., the diameter of a single captured stone fragment within the stone fragment capture device), color (e.g., the color depth of any stone fragment within the stone fragment capture device), etc. In an additional example, it is contemplated that the markings can use a scale with different pictures or patterns to compare the texture, density, and surface roughness of the captured stone fragments to provide feedback regarding the texture, density, surface roughness, etc.

[0143] In an example, stone fragments may be evaluated or analyzed (e.g., Figure 6 Stone fragments 284, Figure 7 Stone fragments 330, Figure 8A Stone fragments 384, Figure 9 Stone fragments 476, Figure 10 Stone fragments 428, Figure 11 Stone fragments 522, Figure 12Stone fragments 578, etc.) to determine if the surgery is proceeding as expected. For example, the information from the markers can be used to determine if a sufficient volume of stone fragments has been captured. The captured volume can be compared to the pre-operative volume to facilitate determination of whether all the stones identified pre-operatively have been collected during the surgery being performed. For example, pre-operative imaging can be used to identify stones within a patient (e.g., within the kidney). Manual calculations, 3D modeling, artificial intelligence, etc. can be used to estimate or determine the volume of stone material within the imaging. Thus, a surgeon or user of the stone fragment capture device described herein can obtain an understanding of whether the surgery can proceed. If the volume identified within the stone fragment capture device is close to, equal to, or exceeds the pre-operative volume, the surgery can proceed to completion or end at operation 716 and beyond. If the volume identified within the stone fragment capture device is equal to, below, or significantly below the pre-operative volume, the surgery can return to operation 702 or another operation to continue collecting stone fragments until the stone fragment capture device is filled to the desired level. The surgeon can use skills and experience to evaluate the volume collected.

[0144] At operation 716, the valves (such as the outlet valve (e.g., valve 582, inlet valve 622)) of the stone fragment capture device can be closed to retain the stone fragments deposited therein. Additionally, similar to Figure 6 valve 254 or Figure 7 valve 332 can be used for Figure 6 stone fragment capture device 252 of Figure 7 stone fragment capture device 300 of Figure 8A stone fragment capture device 350 of Figure 9 stone fragment capture device 450 of Figure 10 stone fragment capture device 400 of Figure 11 stone fragment capture device 500 of Figure 12 stone fragment capture device 550 of Figure 13 stone fragment capture device 600 of Figure 14 any one of the outlet channels, outlet ports, outlet rods, etc. of stone fragment capture device 650 to prevent the captured stone fragments from leaving the stone fragment capture device.

[0145] At operation 718, the stone fragment capture device holding the stone fragments can be removed from the surgical device. For example, the shaft 270 of the handheld probe 202 ( Figure 6 ) can be removed from the inlet port of the stone fragment capture device. Similarly, the collection tube 212 ( Figure 4 ) or tube 276 ( Figure 6 ) can be removed from the outlet port of the stone fragment capture device.

[0146] At operation 720, a container holding the stone fragments (e.g., by removing a lid or cover, e.g., cover 262, cover 314, lid 364, lid 414, lid 464) can be opened such that the stone fragments can be obtained, such as for laboratory analysis.

[0147] Various annotations and examples

[0148] For the purposes of this disclosure, "proximal" refers to the end of the system that is closer to the device operator during use, while "distal" refers to the end of the system that is farther or more distant from the device operator during use.

[0149] The detailed description above includes references to the accompanying drawings that form a part of the detailed description. The drawings illustrate, by way of example, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples". These examples may include elements other than those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate examples in which only the elements shown or described are provided. In addition, the inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements (or one or more aspects thereof), whether with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples shown or described herein (one or more aspects thereof).

[0150] In this document, the term "a" is used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more, independent of any other instances or uses of "at least one" or "one or more". In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to non-exclusive, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B", "B but not A", and "A and B", unless otherwise stated. In this document, the terms "comprising" and "wherein" are used as the plain English equivalents of the corresponding terms "including" and "wherein". Further, in the following claims, the term "comprising" is open-ended, that is, a system, apparatus, article, composition, formulation, or method that includes elements other than those listed after the term in the claim is still considered to fall within the scope of the claim. Further, in the following claims, the terms "first", "second", and "third", etc. are used only as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0151] The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments may be used, such as by those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the above description. The abstract is provided to enable the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It should be understood that this document is not intended to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Additionally, in the above detailed description, various features may be grouped together to simplify the disclosure. This should not be construed as intending that the disclosed features not claimed are essential to any claim. Rather, the subject matter of the invention may be less than all of the features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Accordingly, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that these embodiments may be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which those claims are entitled.

[0152] Example 1 is a stone fragment capture device for a lithotripsy system, the stone fragment capture device comprising: a container for retaining stone fragments; an inlet port in the container for connection to the suction channel of a lithotripter; an outlet port for fluid connection to a collection tank of the lithotripsy system; a transparent portion of the container through which the stone fragments can be viewed; and markings on the container for determining the attributes of the stone fragments disposed within the container.

[0153] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes wherein the markings include graphic markings, text markings, numerical markings, or symbol markings of the attributes of the stone fragments.

[0154] In Example 3, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-2 optionally includes wherein the attributes of the stone fragments include one or more of depth, volume, size, and color.

[0155] In Example 4, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-3 optionally includes wherein the markings include a scale for determining the depth or volume of the stone fragments or a graphic scale for determining the color or texture of the stone fragments.

[0156] In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-4 optionally includes wherein the markings include: a first set of markings disposed upright in a first direction of the container; and a second set of markings disposed upright in a second direction of the container different from the first direction.

[0157] In Example 6, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-5 optionally includes wherein the inlet port includes an elastic valve having opposing faces that abut to seal the inlet port when not connected to the lithotripsy system.

[0158] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-6 optionally includes where the container includes a filter disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0159] In Example 8, the subject matter of Example 7 optionally includes where: the inlet port includes a socket for a hose barb for connection to a handpiece of a lithotripter device; the socket is axially aligned with the outlet port; and the markings include a scale extending axially between the socket and the outlet port.

[0160] In Example 9, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 7-8 optionally includes where: the inlet port includes a socket for a hose barb for connection to a handpiece of a lithotripter device; the outlet port is angled relative to the socket; and the markings include: a first scale parallel to the socket; and a second scale parallel to the outlet port.

[0161] In Example 10, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 7-9 optionally includes a lid fastened to the container to provide access to the interior of the container, where: the filter is attached to the lid; the inlet port and the outlet port are connected to the lid along an axis; and the markings include a scale extending perpendicular to the axis.

[0162] In Example 11, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 7-10 optionally includes where the inlet port includes a flexible tube.

[0163] In Example 12, the subject matter of Example 11 optionally includes where the flexible tube is biased into a U-shape.

[0164] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 optionally includes a lid fastened to the container to provide access to the interior of the container, where the flexible tube extends from the lid and the outlet port extends from the container.

[0165] In Example 14, the subject matter of Example 13 optionally includes where the U-shape of the flexible tube is formed by sections having different flexibilities.

[0166] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 7-14 optionally includes where: the container includes a flexible tube extending from the inlet port; the filter includes an elongate flexible body extending within the flexible tube; and the markings include a scale extending along one of the flexible tube or the elongate flexible body.

[0167] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 7-15 optionally includes where: the container includes a flexible tube extending from the inlet port; the filter includes an elongate flexible body extending beside the flexible tube; and the markings include a scale extending along one of the flexible tube or the elongate flexible body.

[0168] In Example 17, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-16 optionally includes a tube coil in which the container includes a tube coil configured to capture stone fragments.

[0169] In Example 18, the subject matter of Example 17 optionally includes a spool around which the tube coil is wound; a first plug for fluid connection to the tube, the first plug including an inlet port; and a second plug for fluid connection to the tube, the second plug including an outlet port.

[0170] In Example 19, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-18 optionally includes a cyclone catcher in which the container includes a cyclone catcher.

[0171] Example 20 is a lithotripsy device, the lithotripsy device including: a handpiece configured to be held by a user; an excitation source configured to generate energy for breaking a physiological stone; a shaft having a proximal end extending from the handpiece and a distal end configured to engage with the physiological stone; and a stone fragment capture device fluidly connected to the handpiece, the stone fragment capture device including: a container into which waste liquid and stone fragments from the handpiece can flow; a capture element connected to the container to extract stone fragments from the flow of waste liquid; and a marker provided on the stone fragment capture device for comparison with the stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device.

[0172] In Example 21, the subject matter of Example 20 optionally includes a filter in which the capture element includes a filter.

[0173] In Example 22, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20-21 optionally includes a scale in which the marker includes a scale.

[0174] In Example 23, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20-22 optionally includes determining the depth, volume, size, texture, smoothness, or color of the stone fragments in which the marker can be used to determine the depth, volume, size, texture, smoothness, or color of the stone fragments.

[0175] In Example 24, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20-23 optionally includes allowing viewing of the stone fragments within the container in which the container includes at least a portion of a transparent material to allow viewing of the stone fragments within the container.

[0176] In Example 25, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20-24 optionally includes a rigid housing directly connected to the handpiece such that stone fragments can enter the container directly from the handpiece in which the container includes a rigid housing directly connected to the handpiece such that stone fragments can directly enter the container from the handpiece.

[0177] In Example 26, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20-25 optionally includes a flexible tube connecting the container to the handpiece, wherein the flexible tube includes: an inlet section; an outlet section; and an intermediate section connecting the inlet section and the outlet section; wherein the intermediate section is angled relative to the inlet section and the outlet section.

[0178] In Example 27, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20-26 optionally includes wherein the container includes a flexible housing directly connected to the handpiece such that stone fragments can enter the container directly from the handpiece, and wherein the capture element includes a flexible filter located within or beside the flexible housing.

[0179] In Example 28, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20-27 optionally includes wherein the container includes a helical stone fragment capturer or a vortex stone fragment capturer.

[0180] Example 29 is a method for retrieving stone fragments from a lithotripsy procedure, the method including the steps of: fragmenting a stone with a lithotripsy device; applying a vacuum through the lithotripsy device to draw stone fragments and waste fluid through the lithotripsy device; applying a vacuum through a stone fragment capture device connected to the lithotripsy device; separating the stone fragments from the waste fluid within the stone fragment capture device; determining the properties of the stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device; and completing the lithotripsy procedure.

[0181] In Example 30, the subject matter of Example 29 optionally includes wherein the step of determining the properties of the stone fragments includes measuring the volume of the stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device.

[0182] In Example 31, the subject matter of Example 30 optionally includes after measuring the volume of the stone fragments, filling the stone fragment capture device to a desired volume.

[0183] In Example 32, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 29-31 optionally includes orienting the stone fragment capture device in a first position to align a volume marker with the stone fragments.

[0184] In Example 33, the subject matter of Example 32 optionally includes wherein the first position is the position when the axis of the lithotripsy device is in a horizontal position.

[0185] In Example 34, the subject matter of Example 33 optionally includes orienting the stone fragment capture device in a second position to align a volume marker with the stone fragments.

[0186] In Example 35, the subject matter of Example 34 optionally includes wherein the second position is the position when the axis of the lithotripsy device is in a vertical position.

[0187] In Example 36, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 29-35 optionally includes, after completion of lithotripsy surgery, opening the stone fragment capture device to obtain the deposited stone fragments.

[0188] Each of these non-limiting examples may exist independently, or may be combined with or in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples.

Claims

1. A stone fragment capture device for a lithotripsy system, the stone fragment capture device comprising: A container for retaining stone fragments; An inlet port in the container, the inlet port being adapted to be coupled to a suction channel of a lithotripsy device; An outlet port adapted to be in fluid communication with a collection tank of the lithotripsy system; A transparent portion of the container through which stone fragments can be viewed; And A marking on the container for determining an attribute of a stone fragment disposed within the container.

2. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 1, wherein, The marking includes a graphic marking, a text marking, a numerical marking, or a symbol marking of the attribute of the stone fragment.

3. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 1, wherein, The attribute of the stone fragment includes one or more of depth, volume, size, and color.

4. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 1, wherein, The marking includes a scale for determining the depth or volume of the stone fragment or a graphic scale for determining the color or texture of the stone fragment.

5. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 1, wherein, The marking includes: A first set of markings disposed to stand upright in a first direction of the container; and A second set of markings disposed to stand upright in a second direction of the container different from the first direction.

6. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 1, wherein, The inlet port includes an elastic valve having opposing faces that abut to seal the inlet port when not connected to the lithotripsy system.

7. The stone fragment capturing device according to claim 1, wherein The container includes a filter disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port.

8. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 7, wherein: The inlet port includes a socket for a hose barb that is adapted to be connected to a handpiece of the lithotripsy device; The socket is axially aligned with the outlet port; and The marking includes a scale extending axially between the socket and the outlet port.

9. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 7, wherein: The inlet port includes a socket for a hose barb that is adapted to be connected to a handpiece of the lithotripsy device; The outlet port is angled relative to the socket; And The marking includes: A first scale parallel to the socket; And A second scale parallel to the outlet port.

10. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 7, the stone fragment capture device further comprising a lid fastened to the container to provide access to the interior of the container, wherein: The filter is attached to the lid; The inlet port and the outlet port are connected to the lid along an axis; And The marking includes a scale extending perpendicular to the axis.

11. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 7, wherein, The inlet port includes a flexible tube.

12. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 11, wherein, The flexible tube is biased in a U-shape.

13. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 12, wherein the stone fragment capture device further includes a lid fastened to the container to provide access to the interior of the container, wherein, The flexible tube extends from the lid and the outlet port extends from the container.

14. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 13, wherein, The U-shape of the flexible tube is formed by sections having different flexibilities.

15. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 7, wherein: The container includes a flexible tube extending from the inlet port; The filter includes an elongated flexible body extending within the flexible tube; and The marking includes a scale extending along one of the flexible tube or the elongated flexible body.

16. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 7, wherein: The container includes a flexible tube extending from the inlet port; The filter includes an elongate flexible body extending beside the flexible tube; and The marker includes a scale extending along one of the flexible tube or the elongate flexible body.

17. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 1, wherein, The container includes a tube coil configured to capture stone fragments.

18. The stone fragment capture device according to claim 17, the stone fragment capture device further comprising: A spool around which the tube coil is wound; A first plug for fluid connection to a tube, the first plug including the inlet port; And A second plug for fluid connection to a tube, the second plug including the outlet port.

19. The stone fragment capturing device according to claim 1, wherein, The container includes a cyclone trap.

20. A lithotripter device, the lithotripter device comprising: A handpiece configured to be held by a user; An excitation source configured to generate energy for breaking a physiological stone; A shaft having a proximal end extending from the handpiece and a distal end configured to engage with the physiological stone; And A stone fragment capture device fluidly connected to the handpiece, the stone fragment capture device comprising: A container into which waste liquid and stone fragments from the handpiece can flow; A capture element connected to the container to extract the stone fragments from the flow of the waste liquid; and A marker provided on the stone fragment capture device for comparison with the stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device.

21. The gravel device according to claim 20, wherein, The capture element includes a filter.

22. The gravel device according to claim 20, wherein, The marker includes a scale.

23. The gravel device according to claim 20, wherein The marker can be used to determine the depth, volume, size, texture, smoothness or color of the stone fragments.

24. The gravel device according to claim 20, wherein, The container includes at least a portion of a transparent material to allow viewing of the stone fragments within the container.

25. The gravel device according to claim 20, wherein, The container includes a rigid housing directly connected to the handpiece such that stone fragments can enter the container directly from the handpiece.

26. The gravel device according to claim 20, wherein the gravel device further comprises a flexible tube connecting the container to the handpiece, where The flexible tube includes: An inlet section; An outlet section; and An intermediate section connecting the inlet section and the outlet section; Wherein the intermediate section is angled with respect to the inlet section and the outlet section.

27. The gravel device according to claim 20, wherein, The container includes a flexible housing directly connected to the handpiece such that stone fragments can enter the container directly from the handpiece, wherein the capture element includes a flexible filter located within or beside the flexible housing.

28. The gravel device according to claim 20, wherein, The container includes a spiral stone fragment trap or a vortex stone fragment trap.

29. A method for retrieving stone fragments from a lithotripsy procedure, the method comprising the steps of: Breaking a stone with a lithotripter device; Applying a vacuum through the lithotripter device to draw stone fragments and waste liquid through the lithotripter device; Applying a vacuum through a stone fragment capture device connected to the lithotripter device; Separating the stone fragments from the waste liquid within the stone fragment capture device; Determining the properties of the stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device; And Completing the lithotripsy procedure.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The step of determining the properties of the stone fragments includes measuring the volume of the stone fragments within the stone fragment capture device.

31. The method according to claim 30, the method further comprising the following steps: After measuring the volume of the stone fragments, the stone fragment capture device is filled to a desired volume.

32. The method according to claim 29, the method further comprising the following steps: The stone fragment capture device is oriented in a first position to align the volume marker with the stone fragments.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein, The first position is the position when the axis of the lithotripter device is in a horizontal position.

34. The method according to claim 33, the method further comprising the following steps: The stone fragment capture device is oriented in a second position to align the volume marker with the stone fragments.

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein The second position is the position when the axis of the lithotripter device is in a vertical position.

36. The method according to claim 29, the method further comprising the following steps: After completion of the lithotripsy procedure, the stone fragment capture device is opened to obtain the deposited stone fragments.

Images