Manifold for medical waste collection system

Abstract

A manifold for a medical / surgical waste collection system. An outlet opening and fitting are in fluid communication with a manifold volume within a housing. The fitting receives a suction line. A filter element having a porous feature is positioned within the housing such that a fluid communication path is established across the filter element. The porous feature traps matter entrained within the fluid. A matter collection volume is at least partially distal and below a bottom of the filter element. As the fluid and matter are drawn through the fluid communication path, the matter collects within the matter collection volume. A flow diverter can be positioned within the housing for directing the matter toward the matter collection volume. The matter collection volume can be at least partially defined by a tissue trap removably coupled to the housing.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 202211063835.2, filed on March 15, 2018, entitled "Manifold for Medical Waste Collection System", which in turn is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 201880017198.0, filed on March 15, 2018, entitled "Manifold for Medical Waste Collection System". Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure primarily relates to systems and methods for collecting waste generated during surgical procedures. More specifically, but not exclusively, this disclosure relates to a manifold for a medical / surgical waste collection system that reduces the likelihood of waste entrained in the fluid flow disrupting the operation of the medical / surgical waste collection system. Background Technology

[0003] Some medical procedures and surgical operations produce liquid, semi-solid, and solid waste as byproducts. Liquid waste may include bodily fluids such as blood, as well as irrigation solutions introduced into the surgical site where the surgery is performed. Solid and semi-solid waste generated during surgery may include tissue fragments and pieces of surgical material present at the site. Regardless of the state of the waste, ideally, it should be collected as soon as it is generated so that it does not contaminate the surgical site or become a biohazard in the operating room or other locations where surgery is being performed.

[0004] Known systems for collecting waste at the surgical site typically include a suction source, a conduit extending from the suction source, and a container located between the conduit and the suction source. When the system is activated, waste is drawn through the open end of the conduit. The suction draws the waste through the conduit, causing it to flow into and be temporarily stored in the container. An exemplary system is the surgical waste collection system sold under the trademark NEPTUNE by Stryker Corporation (Karamazoo, Michigan). Some variations of the system include a mobile unit comprising a suction pump and at least one tank. This mobile unit is used to position the system relatively close to the patient, thereby reducing the disruption to surgical personnel caused by suction tubing that still clutters the operating room. Further descriptions of features of certain variations of the system are disclosed in jointly owned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007 / 0135779 and International Publication No. 2007 / 0760570, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0005] It is readily understood that collecting semi-solid and solid waste entrained within liquid waste presents technical challenges. A manifold can be installed that includes filter elements for capturing entrained semi-solid and solid waste that could potentially clog downstream components of a medical / surgical waste system. Furthermore, this manifold can be formed from disposable items, eliminating the need for sterilization of the manifold and its complex sub-components. Therefore, personnel handling the used manifold only need to come into contact with the outer surface of the component, reducing or eliminating personnel exposure to the waste collected by the system.

[0006] Over time, semi-solid and solid waste entrained in the liquid waste may clog the filter element. Clogged filter elements can lead to a significant decrease in the level of suction passing through the manifold, and similarly, a loss of suction at the surgical site. In the event of complete loss of suction, it may be necessary to interrupt the surgery and replace the manifold. Interrupting surgery contradicts the commitment of modern surgical practice to perform procedures as quickly as possible, minimizing the time the patient remains under anesthesia, and limiting the exposure of typically concealed internal tissues to the open environment.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a manifold for a medical / surgical waste collection system that overcomes one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This disclosure relates to a novel and useful manifold for use with medical / surgical waste collection units. The manifold of this disclosure is designed to hold a relatively large amount of semi-solid and solid waste (also referred to as "material") entrained in the fluid. On the one hand, the manifold reduces the amount of material encountering the filter elements, and on the other hand, the manifold includes a larger capacity to hold material once the filter elements begin to clog. In both respects, the manifold of this disclosure reduces the likelihood that the manifold will become clogged within a given time period and similarly extends its service life.

[0009] The manifold includes a housing having at least one sidewall defining a manifold volume and a distal portion defining a distal end and including a longitudinal axis extending proximally from the distal end of the distal portion. An outlet opening is located within the proximal portion of the housing and is in fluid communication with the manifold volume. The manifold includes a filter element located within the housing. The filter element includes a base, an orifice positioned relative to the outlet opening and opposite to the base, a basket-like member extending between the base and the orifice, and a porous feature located within the basket-like member. At least one fitting defining the orifice is in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the fitting being adapted to receive a suction line for drawing fluid into the manifold volume. A fluid communication path is established from the orifice of the fitting through the manifold volume and across the filter element to the outlet opening. The porous feature is adapted to trap material entrained in the fluid as fluid is drawn through the fluid communication path. A protrusion extends downward from at least one sidewall to at least partially define a material collection volume within the housing. The material collection volume is axially positioned between the orifice of the fitting and the inlet of the filter element, and is further positioned relative to the basket-like part of the filter element relative to the longitudinal axis. As fluid and material are drawn through the fluid communication path, the material is collected in the material collection volume before encountering the inlet of the filter element.

[0010] The manifold may include a tissue trap that defines a material collection volume. The tissue trap may be removably attached to the housing using complementary coupling features to allow retrieval of material collected within the material collection volume. The tissue trap may be generally conical or pyramidal in shape. The tissue trap may be at least partially transparent and may include graduations for indicating the volume of material trapped within the tissue trap.

[0011] The filter element may include a vent tube coupled to a basket and at least partially axially positioned between an orifice of the fitting and an opening of the filter element. The vent tube defines a vent tube void space that is in fluid communication with an outlet opening and separate from a basket void space defined by the basket of the filter element. The filter element includes porous features within each of the basket and the vent tube. A second fluid communication path is established from the orifice through the vent tube void space to the outlet opening. Suction is maintained through the second fluid communication path to draw fluid through the second fluid communication path after substantially all of the porous features of the basket have been clogged by the captured material and the material substantially occupies the basket void space.

[0012] The manifold may include a flow deflector located within the housing and axially positioned between the orifice of the fitting and the inlet of the filter element. The flow deflector is positioned within the fluid communication path. The flow deflector guides at least a portion of the fluid and material being drawn through the fluid communication path toward the material collection volume. The flow deflector may include a baffle oriented non-right-angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the manifold.

[0013] The basket-like element of the filter element may be cylindrical and include an annular head extending from the cylindrical basket-like element having an annular head. The annular head may be in the shape of a truncated cone and include porous features. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The advantages of this disclosure will be readily understood because they will be better appreciated when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and with reference to the following detailed description.

[0015] Figure 1 A medical / surgical waste collection system is described, to which the manifold of this disclosure is connected.

[0016] Figure 2 A manifold according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in a cross-sectional view, wherein the manifold is disposed in a manifold receiver of a medical / surgical waste collection unit.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the manifold receiver.

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the manifold.

[0019] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the manifold, in which the manifold receiver has been removed.

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the proximal portion of the manifold.

[0021] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the distal portion of the manifold.

[0022] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 As shown and placed Figure 4 A distal perspective view of the filter element inside the housing of the manifold.

[0023] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A near-perspective view of the filter element.

[0024] Figure 10 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the filter element.

[0025] Figure 11 yes Figure 4 A front view of a manifold, which schematically represents the material collection volume and the waste flow through the manifold.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a manifold according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the manifold.

[0028] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 As shown and placed Figure 12 A distal perspective view of the filter element inside the housing of the manifold.

[0029] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 Rear perspective view of the filter element.

[0030] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 The distal plan view of the filter element.

[0031] Figure 17 yes Figure 12 A front view of a manifold, which schematically represents the material collection volume and the waste flow through the manifold.

[0032] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of a manifold according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of the manifold.

[0034] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 The distal perspective view of the manifold.

[0035] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the flow steering gear.

[0036] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 The far-side perspective view of the flow steering gear.

[0037] Figure 23 yes Figure 21 A near-side perspective view of the flow steering gear. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Figure 1 A medical / surgical waste collection system 20 is shown. This waste collection system 20 may include a mobile unit 22 having a base 24 for supporting the mobile unit 22. Certain cover and door assemblies typically attached to the base 24 are not present. Figure 1Therefore, the normally concealed components of the mobile unit 22 are visible. Wheels 26 are attached to the bottom of the base 24, providing mobility for the waste collection system 20, such as mobility along a floor surface. Two tanks 28 and 30 are supported on the base 24. The first tank 28 has a relatively large internal volume, for example, between about 10 liters and 40 liters. The second tank 30 is positioned above the tank 28. The second tank 30 has a smaller volume, for example, between about 1 liter and 10 liters. In some configurations, only one tank may be used.

[0039] Waste collection system 20 includes a manifold receiver 40 connected to the upper portions 36, 38 of tanks 28, 30. The manifold receiver 40 is configured to removably receive manifolds 60, 168, 242 as described. Specifically, in... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Each manifold receiver 40, as best shown, is formed with an orifice 44 that is closed at the proximal end and open at the distal end. Inside the manifold receiver 40 is a fitting 49 extending forward from the proximal end of the orifice 44. A conduit 42 extends from the fitting 49 and establishes a fluid communication path from manifolds 60, 168, 242 to a tank associated with the manifold receiver 40 in tanks 28, 30.

[0040] The manifold receiver 40 may include a collar 41 defining an open distal end of a hole 44, through which manifolds 60, 168, and 242 are inserted into the receiver 40. Figure 3 As shown, the collar 41 is further formed to define two outwardly extending grooves 43, 45. One of the grooves 43 faces an arc that is larger than the arc faced by the other groove 45. At least one groove 47 is present at the proximal end of each groove 43, 45. The groove 47 extends outward from the hole 44 between the proximal ends of the grooves 43, 44.

[0041] Manifolds 60, 168, and 242 are configured to receive at least one suction line 50 in a manner to be described. Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram). The distal end of each suction line 50 is attached to the suction applicator 48. Figure 1 The suction applicator 48 is shown as a handheld device, specifically and entirely designed for applying suction. It is understood that the suction applicator 48 may take other forms, for example, being integrated with another surgical instrument applied to the surgical site. For example (In the endoscope, ablation tool, etc.) to perform tasks other than aspiration.

[0042] The medical / surgical waste collection system 20 also includes a suction pump 58. Catheters 54 and 56 (in...) Figure 1(Shown in dashed lines) Each tank 28, 30 is in fluid communication with the inlet port of the suction pump 58. When the suction pump 58 is actuated, the resulting suction draws material through manifolds 60, 168, 242 and manifold receiver 40 into one or both of the tanks 28, 30. Waste settles from the stream. And the waste is stored until emptied. The gas, and in some cases fragments of waste entrained in the gas, is directed toward the suction pump 58. An additional filter (not shown) may be located within this fluid communication path to trap material such as virus and bacteria-sized particles before the stream is drawn into and discharged from the suction pump 58. As described above, several aspects of the medical / surgical waste collection system 20, including the description of the manifold receiver 40, are disclosed in commonly owned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007 / 0135779 and International Publication No. 2007 / 0760570, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0043] I. First Embodiment Now refer to Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The manifold 60 includes a housing 62 having a distal portion 88 and a proximal portion 64. As used herein, "distal" (D) means toward the surgical site where suction is performed, and "proximal" (P) means away from the surgical site (see [link to documentation]). Figure 5 , Figure 13 and Figure 19 (Compass in the diagram). In other words, the proximal portion 64 and the distal portion 88 form at least one sidewall of the housing 62 of the manifold 60. The sidewall of the housing 62 defines the manifold volume 65 of the manifold 60, which will be described in more detail later. Further reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The proximal portion 64 can be considered open (when not connected to the distal portion 88), and the distal portion 88 is configured to cover the open end of the proximal portion 64. The proximal portion 64 can be generally tubular or cylindrical in shape. The proximal portion 64 is sized to fit within the aperture 44 of the manifold receiver 40. The proximal portion 64 is also formed with a substrate 66 defining the proximal end of the manifold 60. The manifold 60 includes an outlet opening 68 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65 at or near the proximal end of the housing 62. In the illustrated embodiment, the substrate 66 is formed to define the outlet opening 68. The outlet opening 68 is sized to receive an accessory 49 located inside the manifold receiver 40. A drip stopper 70 can be placed on the outlet opening 68. When the manifold 60 is disconnected from the manifold receiver 40, the drip stopper 70 prevents additional fluid from flowing out of the outlet opening 68.

[0044] Continue to refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 Multiple arc-shaped, spaced-apart protrusions 72 can extend forward and distally from the distal end of the proximal portion 64. Figure 6 Three protrusions 72 are marked in the image. Some protrusions 72 may face different arcs relative to other protrusions, and some protrusions 72 may have different arc lengths. The protrusions 72 facilitate the alignment and attachment of the proximal portion 64 to the distal portion 88. The proximal portion 64 is also formed with a lip 74 extending radially outward from the outer surface of the proximal portion 64. The lip 74 is typically positioned one centimeter or less from the distal end of the proximal portion 64. The distal portion 88 may include a tubular neck 90, which is sized to sit on the distal end of the proximal portion 64. A plurality of ribs 92 may extend inward from the inner surface of the neck 90. Figure 7 (Two ribs are marked in the image). The protrusion 72 and rib 92 are arranged together to ensure that the proximal portion 64 is properly rotated and aligned with the distal portion 88 when the proximal portion 64 is inserted into the neck 90. ​​The proximal portion 64 and neck 90 are further dimensioned such that when the proximal portion 64 is inserted into the neck 90, the lip 74 abuts the inner wall of the distal portion 88 to minimize leakage between the proximal portion 64 and the distal portion 88. The distal portion 88 may also include protrusions 95, 97 that project radially outward from the outer surface of the neck 90. ​​Protrusions 95, 97 extend outward from a position immediately in front of the proximal end of the neck 90. ​​Protrusions 95, 97 may be oriented towards arcs of different lengths. One of the protrusions 95 is dimensioned to fit into a groove 43, and the other protrusion 97 is dimensioned to fit into another groove 45. The protrusions 95 and 97 are further dimensioned to rotate within groove 47, which extends arcuately from the distal ends of slots 43 and 45. When the manifold 60 is positioned within the manifold receiver 40, the placement of the protrusions 95 and 97 within slots 43 and 45 facilitates proper rotational orientation of the manifold 60 within the bore 44. In some configurations, the protrusions may be omitted, or they may take forms other than those explicitly described above.

[0045] Figure 4 The distal portion 88 is shown shaped to include a head 96 located distal to the neck 90. ​​The head 96 may optionally include an upper portion 98 and a lower portion 102, wherein the upper portion 98 is an extension of the neck 90. ​​In other words, the upper portion 98 has the same radius of curvature as the neck 90 and generally exhibits a continuous structure. The lower portion 102 is located below the upper portion 98 and projects outwardly from an adjacent portion of the neck 90. ​​In the illustrated embodiment, a transition panel 99 may extend between the lower portion 102 and an adjacent portion of the neck 90. ​​The transition panel 99 may at least partially define a protrusion 107 of the manifold 60 described herein.

[0046] The distal portion 88 of the manifold 60 may include a panel 110 defining the distal end of the manifold 60. The manifold 60 includes at least one fitting 112 located at the distal end, wherein the fitting 112 is adapted to receive a suction line 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the manifold 60 includes four fittings 112. The fittings 112 may extend distally from the panel 110. The fittings 112 define an orifice in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65, and more specifically, the orifice opens onto the manifold volume 65 immediately adjacent to the panel 110. When the suction line 50 is coupled to the fittings 112, material and fluid can be aspirated from the surgical site into the manifold volume 65. The manifold 60 may also include a fence panel 114 extending forward from the panel 110. The fence panel 114 is a series of rectangular stepped wall-like structures that act as finger supports, allowing manipulation of the manifold 60 during initial positioning within the tracheal receiver 40. Accessory 112 extends to the front of fence panel 114.

[0047] Now for reference Figure 5 and Figure 8-10 The described filter element 118 is housed within a housing 62. The filter element 118 may be removably coupled to the housing 62. The filter element 118 may include a basket-like member 120 defined between a base 122 and an opening 123, wherein the base 122 forms a proximal end of the filter element 118 and the opening 123 forms a distal end of the filter element 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the basket-like member 120 is generally, but not entirely, cylindrical to form a tubular sleeve 124 extending between the base 122 and the opening 123. When located within the housing 62, at least a portion of the sleeve 124, including the base 122, is positioned within a proximal portion 64. In some embodiments, the filter element 118 includes one or more ribs 128 that project outwardly or radially from an outer surface of the sleeve 124. Rib 128 extends longitudinally along the outer surface of sleeve 124 and is sized to fit the inner diameter of proximal portion 64 such that rib 128 is radially aligned with filter element 118 and supports filter element 118 within housing 62. A protrusion 130, which projects outward near opening 123 of sleeve 124, facilitates rotational alignment between filter element 118 and housing 62. Figure 8 As shown, the filter element 118 may be configured with two pairs of protrusions 130, each pair of protrusions being located on a parallel axis. The protrusions 130 are adapted to be positioned within a rib 92 integral with the proximal portion 64 (see [reference]). Figure 7The filter element 118 is positioned between the sleeve 124 and the proximal portion 64 to prevent rotation of the filter element 118 relative to the proximal portion 64. The filter element 118 may also include an additional protrusion 134 extending distally forward from the opening 123 of the sleeve 124. The protrusion 134 may be L-shaped and may be oriented in opposite arcs around the circumference defined by the basket 120. The distal portion of each protrusion 134 extends radially outward from the proximal portion of the sleeve 124 in a distally axial direction. The protrusion 134 is configured to be positioned within a rib 92 located inside the distal portion 88 (see [link to rib 92]). Figure 7 Between. Ribs 92 and protrusions 134 are formed together such that, when manifold 60 is assembled, basket 120 is angularly oriented relative to manifold volume 65 located in proximal portion 64 and material collection volume 106 to be described located in distal portion 88. Filter element 118 may be further formed to define a groove 126 that extends circumferentially around sleeve 124 near orifice 123. Groove 126 is adapted to receive a seal (not shown) such as an O-ring to provide a sealing interface between filter element 118 and housing 62 and to substantially guide the entire fluid flow through filter element 118. In some embodiments, filter element 118 is constructed as a single-piece component.

[0048] As described, filter element 118 includes a basket-like member 120 defined between a base 122 and an opening 123 to form a sleeve 124 extending between the base 122 and the opening 123. Filter element 118 includes porous features 142 located within the basket-like member 120, and more specifically within the base 122 and sleeve 124 of the basket-like member 120. Porous features 142 can be configured to have any suitable number, size, shape, and / or arrangement. For example, Figure 8-10A generally rectangular porous feature 142 is shown, arranged in a rectangular array on sleeve 124 and radially arranged on base 122. The porous feature 142 is typically sized to trap entrained material within the fluid as fluid is drawn through the filter element 118. With the filter element 118 placed within housing 62 and the suction line 50 connected to fitting 112, a fluid communication path is established from the orifice of fitting 112 through manifold volume 65 and through the filter element 118 to outlet opening 68. When fluid is drawn through this fluid communication path, the porous feature 142 traps entrained material within the fluid. With prolonged use or repeated use over time, the porous feature 142 of filter element 118 may become partially or completely clogged with semi-solid and solid material entrained in the fluid, potentially leading to a decrease in suction force through the manifold and / or at the surgical site within the housing. Due to the disposability of manifold 60, one option is to remove and replace manifold 60, as previously described. However, other advantageous features of the manifold 60 of this disclosure provide a reduction in the likelihood that manifold 60 will become clogged within a given time period, thereby extending the service life of manifold 60.

[0049] Now refer to Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 11 Manifold 60 includes a material collection volume 106. In the most general sense, the material collection volume 106 is a volume appropriately sized and positioned within housing 62, such that material 150 ( For exampleFragments of semi-solid and / or solid matter (represented by dashed circles) are deposited and collected within volume 106. The manifold 60 of this disclosure is configured to hold more matter within the fluid path before replacement is required. Manifold 60 can be considered a high-capacity manifold. This can be achieved in at least two ways. First, once the porous feature 142 of filter element 118 begins to clog with matter entrained in the fluid, the matter initially accumulates near the base 122 of filter element 118 based on the presence of suction, and then continues to accumulate along the length of filter element 118. Due to gravity, matter can initially accumulate at the bottom along the length of filter element 118. Similarly, additional matter 150 is collected within the matter collection volume 106 located near the bottom of filter element 118, in contrast to, for example, further accumulation within filter element 118. Secondly, based on the location and size of the material collection volume 106 to be described, the density of the material 150 relative to the fluid may cause at least some of the material 150 to descend toward and be collected within the material collection volume 106 before encountering the inlet 123 of the filter element 118. With the material 150 collected and deposited within the material collection volume 106, less solid or semi-solid material enters the filter element 118 to potentially block the porous feature 142.

[0050] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 5 The material collection volume 106 will now be described in detail. The distal portion 88 of the manifold 60 may include a longitudinal axis LA extending proximally from the distal end of the distal portion 88 (e.g., panel 110). In embodiments where the manifold 60 is generally cylindrical, the longitudinal axis LA may be located at the radial center of the manifold 60. In other embodiments where the axial cross-section of the manifold 60 is not generally circular, the longitudinal axis LA may be located at the geometric center of that cross-section. It will be understood that the longitudinal axis LA may be approximately located in the middle of the manifold 60, and its precise location may be defined using some variance. When the manifold 60 is coupled to the medical-surgical waste system 20, the longitudinal axis LA may be substantially horizontal and extend proximally (P) to distally (D) to... Figure 5 The convention shown defines the top direction (T) and the bottom direction (B).

[0051] Material collection volume 106 relative to horizontal ( Right nowThe material collection volume 106 (located below the bottom of the basket 120 of the filter element 118, along the bottom direction) is positioned below the bottom of the basket 120 of the filter element 118. In other words, the material collection volume 106 is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis LA with respect to the basket 120 of the filter element 118. With the material collection volume 106 located below the bottom of the basket 120, the material 150 collected by the material collection volume 106 is effectively removed from the fluid communication path. Suction force may be insufficient to extract solid and semi-solid waste from the material collection volume 106 located below the basket 120 into the fluid communication path. The manifold volume 65 can be considered as a volume within the housing 62 other than the material collection volume 106, or alternatively, the material collection volume 106 can be considered as a sub-volume of the manifold volume 65 defined by the housing 62.

[0052] The material collection volume 106 is formed by the material collection volume from the side wall of the shell 62 downwards ( Right now The projection 107 extends downward in the bottom direction and is defined, more specifically, by the neck 90 of the distal portion 88. The projection 107 can be considered as extending downward from a portion of the sidewall adjacent to the projection 107. The projection 107 extends downward relative to the horizontal. As described, at least a portion of the projection 107 may be defined by a transition panel 99 that separates the lower portion 102 from the neck 90 of the distal portion 88 (see [link to original text]). Figure 4 ).exist Figure 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the protrusion 107 includes a first surface 109 and a second surface 111, wherein the first surface 109 extends downwardly from a sidewall of the housing 62. The second surface 111 extends distally from the first surface 109 to a panel 110 defining the distal end of the housing 62. In this embodiment, the material collection volume 106 may be defined at least partially by the first surface 109, the second surface 111, and a portion of the panel 110. Figure 5 The bottom of the basket-shaped member 120 is shown to be defined on axis R. MT On the radial axis of the mouth 123, at a first distance d1 from the longitudinal axis LA. Protrusion 107, and more specifically, the lowermost part of protrusion 107 ( For example The second surface 111 is a second distance d2 from the longitudinal axis LA. This second distance is greater than the first distance, and the difference defines the depth of the material collection volume 106. In another convention, the depth of the material collection volume 106 is defined by a first distance from the longitudinal axis LA to the sidewall of the housing 62 and a second distance d2 from the longitudinal axis LA to the lowermost portion of the protrusion 107. Right nowThe depth of the material collection volume 106 can be configured to provide sufficient capacity for the material 150, for example, at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 50 mm, or at least 100 mm or more. Alternatively, the depth of the material collection volume 106 can be from 5 mm to 100 mm, 10 mm to 75 mm, or 20 mm to 50 mm. However, it is understood that the depth of the material collection volume 106 can be designed based on the dimensional constraints of the housing 62 and / or the needs of surgical applications. The volume of the material collection volume 106 can be at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 cubic centimeters (cm³). 3 Alternatively, the volume of the material collection volume 106 can be from 1 to 10 cm³. 3 3 to 8 cm 3 or 4 to 6 cm 3 In some embodiments, the volume ratio of the material collection volume 106 to the manifold volume 65 is from 1:3 to 1:8, 1:3 to 1:6, or 1:4 to 1:5. Alternatively, the manifold volume 65 may be at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 times the volume of the material collection volume 106.

[0053] The material collection volume 106 is at least partially located distal to the filter element 118. More specifically, the material collection volume 106 is at least partially located distal to the inlet 123 of the filter element 118, and even more specifically, axially located between the proximal end of the orifice of the fitting 112 and the inlet 123 of the filter element 118. With the material collection volume 106 located distal to the inlet 123, the material 150 descends before encountering the inlet 123 of the filter element 118 and is collected by the material collection volume 106. Figure 5 It is shown that the mouth 123 is defined on axis A M (At the axial position of the opening 123), and the proximal end of the hole of the fitting 112 is defined on axis A. B (Axial position of the hole). If the hole terminates at panel 110, such as Figure 5 As shown, axis A B Corresponding to panel 110. The length L of the material collection volume 106. SV It can be limited to axis A B With axis A MThe length can be between 25 mm and 250 mm, between 50 mm and 125 mm, between 25 mm and 75 mm, or between 15 mm and 50 mm. This length can be designed to allow the density of the substance 150 relative to the fluid to cause the substance 150 to descend from the fluid communication path for collection within the substance collection volume 106. It is understood that this length can be based on, for example, the expected aspiration level for surgical applications, because a higher aspiration level will extract semi-solid and solid substances with greater force and require a greater distance for the semi-solid and solid substances to descend from the fluid path under gravity. When in Figure 5 When viewed in a cross-sectional front view, the material collection volume 106 may be trapezoidal, but it is contemplated that the protrusion 107 may define the material collection volume 106 as rectangular, semi-circular, triangular, other polygonal shapes and / or any shape defining a continuous surface.

[0054] It should be readily understood that, given the large amount of semi-solid and solid matter collected within the material collection volume 106, the manifold 60 of this disclosure is configured to hold more matter before it needs to be replaced. Even with this robust feature, the material collection volume 106 will eventually be consumed by the material 150, and the porous feature 142 of the filter element 118 will eventually become clogged. As the manifold volume 65 begins to accumulate more and more matter, another advantageous feature of the manifold 60 of this disclosure includes a vent 138, which is designed to define a vent void space 129 that is inaccessible to the material 150 (see [link to original text]). Figure 10 And provides a second fluid connectivity path to be described.

[0055] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 8-10 Vent 138 is shown as a component or part of filter element 118. However, it should be understood that vent 138 may be a separate component. Vent 138 extends distally from basket 120 and, more specifically, outwardly from orifice 123 of filter element 118. In other words, orifice 123 of filter element 118 may define a filter orifice plane (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 5 axis A M (a plane above), from which the ventilator 138 extends distally. Figure 8 A basket-like member 120 extending proximally from the plane of the filter inlet is shown. A vent tube 138 is positioned within the housing 62, and more specifically within the distal portion 88 of the housing 62. The vent tube 138, connected to the basket-like member 120, is at least partially axially positioned between the proximal end of the orifice of the fitting 112 and the inlet 123 of the filter element 118. Furthermore, Figure 5This shows that the vent tube 138 is oriented and positioned on axis R. S On the radial axis of vent pipe 138. The axis R of vent pipe 138 S The material collection volume 106 is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis LA. In other words, the material collection volume 106 is typically located near the bottom of the manifold 60, while the vent 138 is typically located near the top of the manifold 60. In some embodiments, for example in... Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the vent 138 is positioned above the material collection volume 106. Figure 5 The instructions further specify that the top of the basket 120 is defined on axis R. MT On the radial axis of the mouth 123, wherein the axis R of the vent tube 138 S The axis R located at the top of the basket 120 MT Above. For reasons to be described, the vent 138 is advantageously positioned near the farthest and uppermost portion of the manifold 60, away from the outlet opening 68. It should be understood that the vent 138 may be included in the manifold 60 but not in the material collection volume 106.

[0056] In some embodiments, the vent 138 is a generally tubular structure. For example, the vent 138 includes a tubular wall 141 and a distal side 140 located at the distal end of the tubular wall 141. The vent 138 includes porous features 142 disposed on one or both of the tubular wall 141 and the distal side 140, these porous features 142 may be the same as or similar to the porous features 142 associated with the basket 120. The vent 138 may not include a proximal side opposite the distal side 140, such that the vent 138 is generally recessed relative to the opening 123 of the filter element 118. Note that the basket 120 of the filter element 118 can be considered to be generally convex relative to the opening 123 of the filter element 118. Rather than providing a proximal side, the vent 138 leads to a channel defined by the groove 125 of the sleeve 124, such as Figure 9 As best shown. The groove 125 may be generally U-shaped or semi-circular and oriented towards an arc corresponding to a portion of the tubular wall 141. Right now The groove 125 is flush with the adjacent curved portion of the vent pipe 138.

[0057] Special Reference Figure 10The basket-shaped member 120 may define a basket-shaped void space 127 within the sleeve 124 between the base 122 and the opening 123. The opening 123 is open, such that the basket-shaped void space 127 faces the proximal inner surface of the panel 110. A vent 138 may define a vent duct void space 129 within the tubular wall 141 between the distal side 140 and the proximal end of the wall 141. It is understood that the vent duct void space 129 is separate from the basket-shaped void space 127. Specifically, the tubular wall 141 and groove 125 of the vent 138 may separate the vent duct void space 129 from the basket-shaped void space 127. The structure of the filter element 118 including the basket-shaped member 120 and the vent duct 138 establishes the previously described structure (see also...). Figure 5 The first fluid communication path (F) and the second fluid communication path (S) from the hole of fitting 112 through the vent space 129 of vent 138 to the outlet opening. More specifically, the second fluid communication path includes fluid traveling from the hole of fitting 112 through the porous feature 142 of vent 138, through the vent space 129, through the channel defined by groove 125, and descending at the base 122 of basket 120 to the outlet opening 68. Then, after the material 150 trapped by substantially all the porous features 142 of basket 120 is blocked and the material 150 substantially occupies the basket space 127, the suction is maintained through the second fluid communication path to draw fluid through the second fluid communication path. The porous feature 142 on vent 138 prevents material entrained in the fluid path from entering the vent space 129. Furthermore, when the vent 138 is located near the furthest portion of the manifold volume 65 relative to the outlet opening 68 in both the axial and radial positions, the manifold 60 should continue operating until substantially the entire volume within the housing 62 is consumed by semi-solid and solid matter. Only in this way is it more likely that matter will clog the porous features 142 of the vent 138 at the furthest and uppermost portions of the manifold 60. As a result, substantially the entire volume within the manifold 60 is utilized, thereby extending the service life of the manifold 60.

[0058] Exemplary operation includes preparing the waste collection unit 20 for use by inserting the manifold 60 into the manifold receiver 40. The manifold 60 is rotated to position the protrusions 95, 97 within grooves integral with the slots 43, 45, thereby locking the manifold 60 in the manifold receiver 40. Due to the orientation of the manifold 60 when connected to the manifold receiver 40, the material collection volume 106 is positioned below the filter element 118 with respect to the gravity reference plane. At least one suction line 50 is coupled to at least one fitting 112. A suction applicator 48 may be coupled to the suction line 50.

[0059] The pump 58 is actuated to extract waste away from the surgical site. Actuation of the pump draws the waste stream through the suction applicator 48 and suction line 50 into the manifold 60, such as... Figure 11 As indicated by arrow 146. Based on the location of the material collection volume 106, the fluid flow containing material 150 does not immediately encounter the filter element 118. Instead, the fluid flow containing material 150 proceeds through the first connecting path, as shown... Figure 11 As indicated by arrow 148 (see also) Figure 5 (F)). Before encountering the inlet 123 of the filter element 118, at least some of the material 150 may descend toward and be collected in the material collection volume 106. The fluid is drawn into a tank of tanks 28, 30 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65. Furthermore, after at least some of the porous features 142 of the filter element 118 are blocked by the material 150 entrained in the fluid, the material 150 is collected in the material collection volume 106 located near the bottom of the manifold 60, in contrast to further accumulation within the filter element 118.

[0060] II. Second Embodiment Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 17 A manifold 168 according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Similar numbered structures from previously described embodiments of manifold 60 are incorporated herein by reference for the current embodiment of manifold 168 to be described. Manifold 168 includes a proximal portion 64 and a distal portion 202. The distal portion 202 can be removably coupled to the proximal portion 64, for example, using snap-fit ​​fittings, pawls, etc. The proximal portion 64 and the distal portion 202 together define a housing 62 of manifold 168. Apart from their comparable shape and dimensions, the distal portion 202 is similar in many respects to the distal portion 88. In particular, the neck 204 of the distal portion 202 is axially larger than... Figure 4The distal portion 88 has a neck 90. ​​In this embodiment, the neck 204 of the distal portion 202 is cylindrical along its entire length. Furthermore, the distal portion 202 includes a collar 205 that expands radially outward from the neck 204 in an annular manner. In at least some aspects, the collar 205 is similar to the previously described transition panel 99, wherein the collar 205 at least partially defines a protrusion 207. Distal to the collar 205, the distal portion 202 of the housing 62 includes a head 208 with a diameter larger than that of the neck 204. The manifold 168 includes a panel 210 defining the distal end of the manifold 168. A fitting 112 and a fence portion 114 extend forward from the panel 210. The fitting 112 defines an aperture communicating with a manifold volume 65 within the manifold 168. In some embodiments, the manifold 168 includes a bubble 203 projecting radially outward from another cylindrical surface of the neck 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the bubble cap 203 is diameter-opposite. The bubble cap 203 is adapted to provide a frictional fit between the manifold 168 and the collar 41 of the manifold receiver 40. In one example, the neck 204 of the manifold 168 is sized to have a diameter approximately 0.5 mm smaller than the diameter of the collar 41, and the bubble cap 203 protrudes radially outward by a distance approximately 0.05 mm larger than the diameter of the manifold receiver 40. The bubble cap 203 may be formed of an elastic material adapted to compress and elastically deform when the manifold 168 is positioned within the manifold receiver 40. Compression and associated elastic deformation help prevent rotation of the manifold 168 relative to the medical / surgical waste collection system 20.

[0061] See now Figure 14-16 The filter element 170 includes a basket-like member 174. The basket-like member 174 is generally cylindrical. It extends between a base 172 and an opening 123 opposite to the base 172, the base defining a proximal end of the filter element 170 and the opening 123 defining a distal end. The basket-like member 174 is sized and shaped to be positioned within a housing 62. A neck 182 is located distal to the basket-like member 174, wherein the inner diameter of the neck 182 is approximately 3 mm larger than the inner diameter of the basket-like member 174. The filter element 170 includes a head 184 extending distally from the neck 182. The head 184 is annularly shaped like a truncated cone. In other words, the head 184 flares radially outward from the neck 182 or gradually tapers. An annular edge 188 (also part of the head 184) extends radially outward from the outer periphery of the head 184. Edge 188 is planar and defines the opening 123 of filter element 170. The outer diameter of edge 188 is about 1 mm smaller than the diameter of the inner wall of the head 208 of the distal portion 202. However, it should be understood that filter basket 174 may also have other shapes.

[0062] The filter element 170 includes ribs 176, protrusions 178, and ear-like features 190, configured to retain the position of the filter element 170 relative to the housing 62. More specifically, the ribs 176 may extend radially outward from the outer surface of the basket-like feature 174. The ribs 176 may be longitudinally oriented along the outer surface of the basket-like feature 174. Figure 14 and Figure 15 Four ribs 176 are shown, spaced at equal angles around a circumference defined by the outer surface of the basket-like member 174. The ribs 176 are sized such that the basket-like member 174 is tightly received within the proximal portion 64 of the housing 62, and are further sized to provide a gap of desired size between the outer surface of the basket-like member 174 and the inner surface of the proximal portion 64. This gap provides clearance for fluid to pass through the porous feature 194 (described further below) of the filter element 170. A protrusion 178 facilitates the central positioning of the filter element 170 within the proximal portion 64 of the housing 62. Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, ridges 178 project outward from each rib 176, and more specifically, at the distal end of each rib. The ridges 178 are sized such that when the filter element 170 is placed within the housing 62, the ridges 178 abut against the inner surface of the adjacent side portion 64. Ears 190 extend forward distally from the edge 188. In one example, each ear 190 is in the form of a curved fin. When assembling the manifold 168, the ears 190 are positioned between the ribs (not shown) projecting inward from the inner surface of the head 208. The placement of the ears 190 between the ribs facilitates the alignment of the filter element 170 within the manifold 168, preventing rotation of the filter.

[0063] The filter element 170 includes a porous feature 194. The porous feature 194 may be placed within the base 172, the basket 174, the neck 182, and / or the head 184. Figure 14-16A porous feature without an associated edge 188 is shown. The porous feature 194 is approximately sized to trap material entrained in the fluid as it is drawn through the filter element 170. With the filter element 170 placed within the housing 62 and the suction line 50 connected to the fitting 112, a fluid communication path is established from the orifice of the fitting 112 through the manifold volume 65 and through the filter element 170 to the outlet opening 68. As fluid is drawn through this fluid communication path, the porous feature 194 traps material 150 entrained in the fluid. With prolonged use or repeated use over time, the porous feature 194 of the filter element 118 may become partially or completely clogged with semi-solid and solid material entrained in the fluid, potentially leading to a decrease in suction force across the manifold 168 and / or at the surgical site. This embodiment of the manifold 168 includes a material collection volume 206, which is similar in many respects to the previously described (see [link to previous description]). Figure 5 The exemplary embodiment of the material collection volume 106. In the most general sense, the material collection volume 206 is a volume that is appropriately sized and positioned within the housing 62 such that material 150 is deposited and collected within the material collection volume 206.

[0064] refer to Figure 13 The distal portion 202 of the manifold 168 includes a longitudinal axis LA that extends proximally from the distal end of the distal portion 202 and is oriented proximally (P) to distally (D) to define a top direction (T) and a bottom direction (B). A material collection volume 206 is positioned relative to the bottom of the basket 174 of the filter element 170, horizontally positioned. In other words, the material collection volume 206 is positioned relative to the basket 174 of the filter element 170 with respect to the longitudinal axis LA. With the material collection volume 206 located below the bottom of the basket 174, material 150 that falls into and is collected by the material collection volume 206 is effectively removed from the fluid communication path. The material collection volume 206 is defined by a protrusion 207 extending downward from the sidewall of the housing 62. The protrusion 207 may be defined at least partially by a collar 205 and / or the head 208 of the proximal portion 202. In this embodiment, the edge 188 of the filter element 170 can be considered as including a first surface 209 defining a portion of a material collection volume 206, and a second surface 211 extending proximally from the panel 210 defining the distal end of the housing 62. In this embodiment, the material collection volume 206 may be defined at least partially by the first surface 209, the second surface 211, and a portion of the panel 210, such as Figure 13 The rectangle in the middle is represented by a dashed line. Figure 13 It is also shown that the bottom of the basket-shaped member 174 is defined on axis R. MThe upper part is at a first distance d1 from the longitudinal axis LA and protrudes 207, and more specifically the bottom of the protrusion 207 ( For example The second surface 211 is a second distance d2 from the longitudinal axis LA. This second distance is greater than the first distance, and the difference defines the depth of the material collection volume 206. In another convention, the depth of the material collection volume 206 is defined by a first distance from the longitudinal axis LA to the sidewall of the housing 62 and a second distance d2 from the longitudinal axis LA to the lowermost part of the protrusion 207. Right now The depth of the material collection volume 206 can be configured to provide sufficient capacity for the material 150, for example, at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 50 mm, or at least 100 mm or more. Alternatively, the depth of the material collection volume 206 can be from 5 mm to 100 mm, 10 mm to 75 mm, or 20 mm to 50 mm. However, it is understood that the depth of the material collection volume 206 can be designed based on the size constraints of the housing 62 and / or the needs of surgical applications. The volume of the material collection volume 206 can be at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 cm. 3 Alternatively, the volume of the material collection volume 206 can range from 1 to 10 cm³. 3 3 to 8 cm 3 or 4 to 6 cm 3 In some embodiments, the volume ratio of the material collection volume 206 to the manifold volume 65 is 1:3 to 1:8, 1:3 to 1:6, or 1:4 to 1:5. Alternatively, the manifold volume 65 may be at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 times the volume of the material collection volume 206.

[0065] The material collection volume 206 is at least partially positioned distal to the filter element 170. More specifically, the material collection volume 206 is positioned distal to the inlet 123 of the filter element 170, and even more specifically, is axially positioned between the panel 210 and the inlet 123 of the filter element 170. The material collection volume 206 may be axially positioned between the proximal end of the orifice of the fitting 112 and the inlet 123 of the filter element 170. With the material collection volume 206 located distal to the inlet 123, the material 150 descends and is collected within the material collection volume 206 before encountering the inlet 123 of the filter element 170. Figure 13 It is shown that the mouth 123 is defined on axis A M At this location, and the hole of fitting 112 is limited to axis A. B The length L of the material collection volume is 206. SV It can be limited to axis A B With axis A MThe length can be between 25 mm and 250 mm, between 50 mm and 125 mm, between 25 mm and 75 mm, or between 15 mm and 50 mm.

[0066] Exemplary operation includes preparing the waste collection unit 20 for use by inserting the manifold 168 into the manifold receiver 40. The protrusions 95, 97 are aligned with the slots 43, 45 (see reference below). Figure 3 The bubble 203 is inserted towards the proximal end of the grooves 43, 45. The bubble 203 abuts against the inner surface of the collar 41, such that when the manifold 168 is inserted and subsequently rotated in the groove 47, the pressure of the bubble 203 on the collar 41 applies resistance opposite to the axial and rotational movement of the manifold 168. When the protrusions 95, 97 are fully positioned in the grooves 43, 45, the manifold 168 rotates until the protrusions 95, 97 reach the end of the groove 47 located inside the collar 41 of the manifold receiver 40. These components are arranged relative to each other such that when the protrusions 95, 97 rotate to the end of the groove 47, the bubble 203 rotates into the grooves 43, 45, and therefore, the bubble 203 no longer abuts against the collar 41. The subsequent removal of resistance from the bubble 203 provides a tactile indication of securing the manifold 168 in the manifold receiver 40. Due to the orientation of manifold 168 when connected to manifold receiver 40, the material collection volume 206 is positioned below filter element 170 relative to the longitudinal axis and the plane of gravity. At least one suction line 50 is connected to at least one fitting 112. Suction applicator 48 may be connected to the suction line 50.

[0067] The pump 58 is actuated to extract waste away from the surgical site. Actuation of the pump 58 causes the waste stream to be drawn through the suction applicator 48 and the suction line 50 into the manifold 168, such as... Figure 17As indicated by arrow 222. Based on the location of the material collection volume 206, the fluid flow containing material 150 does not immediately encounter the filter element 170. Before encountering the opening 123 of the filter element 170, at least some of the material 150 may descend toward and be collected within the material collection volume 206. Semi-solid and solid materials entrained in the fluid are captured by the porous features 194 of the filter element 170, and the fluid is drawn into one of the tanks 28, 30 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65. Furthermore, after at least some of the porous features 194 of the filter element 170 are blocked by the material 150 entrained in the fluid, the material 150 is collected in the material collection volume 206 located near the bottom of the manifold 168, in contrast to, for example, further accumulation within the filter element 170. With the porous feature 194 advantageously arranged annularly around the head 184, neck 182, basket 174, and / or base 172 of the filter element 170, suction through the filter element 170 is maintained even when multiple lower portions of the porous feature 194 are blocked. The manifold 168 should continue operating until substantially the entire volume within the housing 62 is consumed by semi-solid and solid matter. Only in this way is it more likely that matter 150 will clog the uppermost portion of the porous feature 194 of the filter element 170. As a result, the service life of the manifold 168 is extended by utilizing substantially the entire volume within it.

[0068] III. Third Embodiment Figure 18-20 A manifold 242 according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Similar numbered structures from previously described embodiments of manifolds 60, 168 are incorporated herein by reference for the current embodiment of the manifold 242 to be described. The manifold 242 includes a proximal portion 64 and a distal portion 244. The proximal portion 64 and the distal portion 244 together define a housing 62 of the manifold 242. The distal portion 244 is similar in at least some respects to the previously described distal portions 88, 202; for example, the distal portion 244 includes a neck 246 that is generally cylindrical. The manifold 242 includes a panel 258 defining the distal end of the manifold 242. A fitting 112 and a fence portion 114 extend forward from the panel 258. The fitting 112 defines an aperture communicating with a manifold volume 65 within the manifold 242. A plurality of tethers 256 are shown extending from the panel 258, wherein... Figure 18 Two pairs of tethers are marked. A mating distal portion 257 is attached to the free end of each tether 256, wherein the distal portion 257 is configured to cover the hole in fitting 112 through which no suction is being drawn to eliminate suction loss through that fitting. Although not shown, it is understood that the previously described manifolds 60 and 168 are generally provided with similar tethers and mating distal portions.

[0069] Manifold 242 includes a filter element 310 having a basket-like member 314. The basket-like member 314 may be generally cylindrical. The basket-like member 314 extends between a base 312 and an opening 123 opposite to the base 312, the base 312 defining a proximal end of the filter element 310 and the opening 123 defining a distal end of the filter element 310. The basket-like member 314 is sized and shaped to be positioned within a housing 62, and more specifically within a proximal portion 64 of the housing 62. The filter element 310 includes features that engage the proximal portion 64 to retain the filter element 310 within the proximal portion 64. Figure 19 (Not identified in the text) These features include, but are not limited to, those described in the foregoing embodiments. The filter element 310 also includes a porous feature 315. The porous feature 315 may be placed within the base 312 and / or the basket 314. The porous feature 315 is generally sized to trap material entrained in the fluid as it is drawn through the filter element 310. With the filter element 310 placed within the housing 62 and the suction line 50 connected to the fitting 112, a fluid communication path is established from the orifice of the fitting 112 through the manifold volume 65 and across the filter element 310 to the outlet opening 68. As fluid is drawn through this fluid communication path, the porous feature 315 traps material entrained in the fluid. With prolonged use or repeated use over time, the porous feature 315 of the filter element 310 may become partially or completely clogged with semi-solid and solid material entrained in the fluid, potentially leading to a decrease in suction force across the manifold 242 and / or at the surgical site.

[0070] This embodiment of manifold 242 includes in many respects the material collection volumes 106, 206 as described in the previously described exemplary embodiments (see Figure 5 and Figure 13 Similar substances can be collected in volumes of 306. (Reference) Figure 19 The distal portion 244 of the manifold 242 includes a longitudinal axis LA that extends proximally from the distal end of the distal portion 202 and is oriented proximally (P) to distally (D) to define a top direction (T) and a bottom direction (B). A material collection volume 306 is positioned relative to the horizontal below the bottom of the basket 314 of the filter element 310. In other words, the material collection volume 306 is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis LA relative to the basket 314 of the filter element 310. With the material collection volume 306 located below the bottom of the basket 314, the material 150 that falls into and is collected by the material collection volume 306 is effectively removed from the fluid communication path.

[0071] The material collection volume 306 is defined by the protrusion 307. (See reference 307 for further details.) Figure 19 The bottom of the basket-shaped component 314 is constrained by axis R. M Above, the bottom of the protrusion 307 is at a first distance d1 from the longitudinal axis LA, and more specifically, the bottom of the protrusion 307 is at a second distance d2 from the longitudinal axis LA. The second distance is greater than the first distance, wherein the difference defines the depth of the material collection volume 306. In another convention, the depth of the material collection volume 306 is defined by the first distance between the longitudinal axis LA and the side wall of the shell 62 and the second distance d2 between the longitudinal axis LA and the bottom of the protrusion 307. Right now (The depth of protrusion 307). The depth of the material collection volume 306 can be configured to provide sufficient capacity for the material 150, for example, at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 50 mm, or at least 100 mm or more. Alternatively, the depth of the material collection volume 306 can be from 5 mm to 100 mm, 10 mm to 75 mm, or 20 mm to 50 mm. However, it is understood that the depth of the material collection volume 306 can be designed based on the size constraints of the housing 62 and / or the needs of surgical applications. The volume of the material collection volume 306 can be at least 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 cm. 3 Alternatively, the volume of the material collection volume 306 can be from 1 cm³. 3 Up to 10 cm 3 3 cm 3 Up to 8 cm 3 or 4 cm 3 Up to 6 cm 3 In some embodiments, the volume ratio of the material collection volume 306 to the manifold volume 65 is from 1:3 to 1:8, 1:3 to 1:6, or 1:4 to 1:5. Alternatively, the manifold volume 65 may be at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 times the volume of the material collection volume 306.

[0072] The material collection volume 306 is at least partially positioned distal to the filter element 310. More specifically, the material collection volume 306 is at least partially positioned distal to the inlet 123 of the filter element 170, and even more specifically, is axially positioned between the proximal end of the orifice of the fitting 112 and the inlet 123 of the filter element 170. With the material collection volume 306 located distal to the inlet 123, the material 150 descends and is collected within the material collection volume 306 before encountering the inlet 123 of the filter element 310. Figure 5 It is shown that the mouth 123 is defined on axis A M At this location, and the hole of fitting 112 is limited to axis A. B Location. Material collection volume 307, length L. SV It can be limited to axis A BWith axis A M Between. The length can be between 1.0 inch and 10.0 inches, or more specifically between 2.0 inches and 5.0 inches.

[0073] exist Figure 18 In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 19, manifold 242 includes a tissue trap 248, which includes a protrusion 307 and at least partially defines a material collection volume 306. The tissue trap 248 projects laterally outward from a sidewall of housing 62, and more specifically from a proximal portion 64 of housing 62. In some embodiments, the tissue trap 248 is part of housing 62, and in other embodiments, the tissue trap 248 is removably coupled to housing 62. For example, each of the tissue trap 248 and housing 62 may include complementary coupling features 251 adapted to removably couple the tissue trap 248 to the proximal portion 64 of housing 62. Complementary coupling features 251 may include threads, pawls, friction fits, etc. In this example, disengaging the tissue trap 248 from housing 62 can provide retrieval of material collected within the tissue trap 248. It is anticipated that the tissue trap 248 of the manifold 242 of this embodiment may be included in the previously described embodiments of manifolds 60, 168. The tissue trap 248 may include an upper portion 250 and a lower portion 252. The upper portion 250 may be in the form of a rectangular tube. The lower portion 252 of the tissue trap 248 may be generally conical, such as... Figure 18 As shown in 19, it is generally pyramidal or other suitable shape to provide the required volume and profile for the material collection volume 306. The tissue trap 248 may be formed of a partially or completely transparent material and also includes scales 254 indicating the volume of the trap relative to the bottom of the lower portion 252. The scales 254 help identify the volume of material and fluid collected within the tissue trap 248. In many respects, the function is similar in the three embodiments when the tissue trap 248 gives the manifold 242 a profile different from the previously described embodiments and defines a relatively large material collection volume 306. The material collection volume 306 is positioned within the housing 62 such that material 150 is deposited and collected within the material collection volume 306. With material 150 collected and deposited within the material collection volume 306, less material enters the filter element 310 to potentially clog the porous feature 315. Therefore, manifold 242 is configured to contain more fluid and more material in the fluid path before replacement is required. It is understood that tissue trap 248 may be located within other exemplary embodiments of manifolds 60, 168 of this disclosure, or within embodiments of manifolds that do not include a material collection volume.

[0074] Where the tissue trap 248 provides a larger capacity for the material collection volume 306, it may be desirable to direct the fluid flow toward the tissue trap 248 before it encounters the orifice 123 of the filter element 310. The manifold 242 may also include a flow diverter 280 positioned together with the housing 62. The flow diverter 280 is axially positioned between the orifice of the fitting 112 and the orifice 123 of the filter element 310 so as to be positioned within the fluid communication path. The flow diverter 280 is configured to direct at least a portion of the fluid and material 150 being drawn through the fluid communication path toward the material collection volume 306. Reference Figure 19-23 The panel 258 is further formed to have two openings 260, one of which is in Figure 19 The H-beam 262 is identified as being located outward from panel 258, wherein the central web of beam 262 is positioned between openings 260, and opposing parallel flanges of beam 262 are positioned adjacent to the sides of openings 260. One or more protrusions 264 may also protrude outward from panel 258, wherein each protrusion 264 is positioned adjacent to one of the openings 260. Protrusions 264 are positioned between the free ends of the flanges of beam 262 surrounding openings 260.

[0075] The flow deflector 280 includes a center panel 282. In the illustrated example, the center panel 282 is planar and rectangular. The center panel 282 is oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis LA. A circular head 288 is attached to the distal end of the center panel 282. The head 288 is positioned in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the center panel 282. The flow deflector 280 includes ear-shaped members 290 extending forward and distally from the top of the head 288. The ear-shaped members 290 may be in the form of generally parallel pillars, each having a rectangular cross-sectional profile. Each ear-shaped member 290 is further shaped to have an end 292 that projects outwardly a short distance. When the manifold 242 is assembled, each ear-shaped member 290 is inserted into a single opening 260 in the panel 258 through the distal portion 244. Each end 292 of the ear-shaped member 290 protrudes onto a single protrusion 264 in the distal portion 244. The flow steering unit 280 is secured by engagement of the ear-shaped member on the protrusion, wherein the manifold volume 65 is located inside the distal portion 244 of the housing 62. Due to the dimensions of the components forming the manifold 242, when the flow steering unit 280 is thus secured in place, the distal guide surface of the head 288 presses against the adjacent proximal guide surface of the panel 258. It is understood that the flow steering unit 280 may be a monolithic structure and formed from a relatively inexpensive material such as plastic.

[0076] The flow deflector 280 also includes a baffle 298. The baffle 298 extends outward from the center panel 288. The baffle 298 may be circular, with a diameter greater than the height from the bottom to the top of the center panel 282. The orientation of the baffle 298 is set at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis LA. Figure 19 As shown, the top of baffle 298 ( Right now In the top direction (T), relative to the bottom of baffle 298 ( Right now Positioned distally in the bottom direction (B). In other words, baffle 298 is angled relative to the longitudinal axis LA, such that as baffle 298 extends downward toward tissue trap 248, the bottom portion 64 of baffle 298 slopes proximally. Due to the size, shape, and orientation of baffle 298, flow deflector 280 is configured to guide at least a portion, and typically the majority, of the fluid and material being drawn through the fluid communication path toward material collection volume 306. In other words, the majority of the waste stream contacts the distal guide surface of baffle 298, which deflects the waste stream into tissue trap 248. In some cases, the fluid communication path may be considered to include material collection volume 306, such as Figure 19 As indicated by arrow 324. However, it is understood that the flow diverter 280 may be located within the exemplary embodiments of the previously described manifolds 60, 168 or within embodiments of manifolds that do not include a material collection volume.

[0077] In cases where a large volume of waste material contacts the distal side of the baffle 298, the flow deflector 280 may include a retaining member 302 coupled to that distal side. The retaining member is adapted to hold debris, such as sutures, tissue fragments, and other longer pieces, within the fluid communication path. Figure 21 In the embodiment shown, the retaining member 302 is a pin.

[0078] Exemplary operation includes a waste collection unit 20, which is prepared for use by inserting a manifold 242 into a manifold receiver 40. Protrusions 95, 97 are positioned to engage a groove 47 located inside a collar 41 of the manifold receiver 40 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3 The rotation of manifold 242 releasably locks it to manifold receiver 40. Due to the positioning of the components forming the system, when manifold 242 is in this locked state, it is in a rotational orientation about the longitudinal axis LA, such that the trap 248 is located below the longitudinal axis LA. More specifically, manifold 242 is oriented such that the bottom of the tissue trap 248 is lowest relative to the plane of gravity, and the material collection volume 306 is positioned below the filter element 310. At least one suction line 50 is coupled to at least one of the fittings 112. Aspiration applicator 48 may be coupled to this suction line 50.

[0079] The pump 58 is actuated to extract waste away from the surgical site. Actuation of the pump causes the waste stream to be drawn through the suction applicator 48 and suction line 50 into manifold 242, such as... Figure 19 As indicated by arrow 322. Based on the location of the material collection volume 306, at least some of the material 150 descends toward the material collection volume 306 and is collected within it before encountering the inlet 123 of the filter element 310. The fluid is drawn into one of the tanks 28, 30 that is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65. Furthermore, the fluid and material being drawn toward the material collection volume 306 through this fluid communication path contacts the distal end face of the baffle 298, which deflects the waste stream into the tissue trap 248. After at least some of the porous features 315 of the filter element 310 are blocked by the material 150 entrained in the fluid, the material 150 can be collected in the material collection volume 306 located near the bottom of the manifold 242.

[0080] Furthermore, it is anticipated that the waste collection system 20 can operate in either a low-suction mode or a high-suction mode. In the low-suction mode, where relatively low suction is applied through the suction line 50, virtually all waste material is collected. Right now (fluids and substances) enter the tissue trap 248, which in Figure 19 The wavy line 326 indicates this. However, the suction level is insufficient to extract material from the tissue trap 248. The scale 254 on the at least partially transparent tissue trap 248 can be used to measure the volume of waste removed from the surgical site. This feature is particularly useful in some surgeries (e.g., pediatric and ophthalmic surgeries) where only a small amount of material (e.g., 10 cubic centimeters or less) is removed. In low suction mode, the tissue trap 248 may eventually become full of waste material. While the scale 254 may no longer be useful for measuring the volume of waste material, the density of the material 150 relative to the fluid causes the material to descend toward the bottom of the material collection volume 306 defined by the tissue trap 248 and collect within it. Subsequently, with a higher level of suction applied through the manifold 242, fluid is extracted from the tissue trap 248 while the material remains deposited within the material collection volume 306. With less material coming into contact with the filter element 310, the likelihood of the filter element 310 becoming clogged is reduced and the service life of the manifold 242 is extended.

[0081] In the high-suction mode where relatively high suction is achieved by drawing through the suction line at a 50° angle, almost all waste material is discarded. Right nowThe fluid and matter can contact and be deflected by the distal side of the baffle 298. The suction level is sufficient to draw fluid around the baffle 298 into the inlet 123 of the filter element 310 while the matter 150 descends toward the bottom of the matter collection volume 306 defined by the tissue trap 248 and is collected within the matter collection volume 306. As the fluid path enters the inlet 123 of the filter element 310, any entrained semi-solid and solid matter is captured by the porous features 315 of the filter element 310, and the fluid is drawn into a canister in the canisters 28, 30 that is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 65. After at least some of the porous features 315 of the filter element 310 are blocked by the matter 150 entrained in the fluid, the matter 150 can be collected in the matter collection volume 306 located near the bottom of the manifold 242.

[0082] IV. Alternative Embodiments The foregoing relates to specific embodiments of the present disclosure as understood in this application. Alternative embodiments are possible. For example, the mobile unit used as part of the system of the present disclosure is exemplary and not limiting. Not all waste collection units integrated into the system can be mobile or comprise two waste collection unit tanks. Similarly, other variations of the system of the present disclosure may include alternative features to ensure that the manifold is properly oriented relative to the plane of gravity when fitted to the waste collection unit. For example, within the scope of the present disclosure, the waste collection unit may include one or more alignment protrusions, wherein the manifold housing is formed with a complementary number of slots. The slots may be positioned such that the manifold must be oriented such that the protrusions are placed in the slots to provide the correct orientation. Still in other aspects of the present disclosure, it may be desirable to provide an asymmetrical aperture for the manifold receiver and a complementary asymmetrical shape for the manifold housing. This will again ensure that the manifold is correctly oriented due to placement in the aperture.

[0083] Not all features are present in all variations of this disclosure. For example, some manifolds of this disclosure may have only a single fitting for receiving the suction line. Similarly, it may not always be necessary to assemble the drip stopper into the outlet opening of the manifold housing. In variations of this disclosure where a tissue trap is present to provide means for determining the volume of removed waste, a filter for the manifold may not be required. Not all manifold variations include a bubble hood. A bubble hood may be incorporated into the manifold in addition to the second embodiment. For this aspect of the disclosure, it is possible to provide a manifold with a single bubble hood or three or more bubble hoods to provide the desired tactile feedback. A filter with a vent section may be incorporated into the manifolds of the second and third embodiments, as well as into manifolds that do not include a settling chamber. Multiple features of the manifolds of this disclosure may also be incorporated. Within the scope of this disclosure, the tissue trap and flow deflector may be included individually or together in the first and second embodiments of the manifold. Similarly, the tissue trap and flow deflector can be combined individually or together with any of the disclosed filter elements.

[0084] The construction of a flow deflector for guiding waste streams into a tissue trap can differ from that already described. In some aspects of this disclosure, the flow deflector can be a set of one or more panels molded into a manifold housing. These panels include surfaces positioned to guide the waste stream into the tissue trap before it flows through the filter element and the outlet opening. Similarly, as an alternative to a pin, the retaining feature on the flow deflector can be a non-linear surface with indentations. The indentations can serve as a bag into which waste that would otherwise be captured by the filter is collected.

[0085] Several embodiments have been discussed in the foregoing description. However, the embodiments discussed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit this disclosure to any particular form. The terminology used is intended to be descriptive in nature and not restrictive. In view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible, and this disclosure may be implemented in ways other than those specifically described.

Claims

1. A manifold for a medical waste collection system, the manifold comprising: A housing defining a manifold volume, a material collection volume within the manifold volume, and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the manifold volume, wherein the housing includes an inlet fitting configured to receive a suction line to establish a fluid communication path from the inlet fitting through the manifold volume to the outlet opening; A filter element disposed within the housing and including a basket-like member defining an opening and porous features suitable for trapping substances entrained in the fluid; and A flow deflector is disposed within the housing and between the inlet fitting and the port of the filter element, wherein the flow deflector is adapted to guide the fluid drawn through the fluid communication path toward the material collection volume.

2. The manifold as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The flow steering mechanism includes a central panel connected to the housing and a baffle extending from the central panel.

3. The manifold as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The housing also includes a distal panel from which the inlet fitting extends distally and which defines an opening to which the center panel of the flow deflector is coupled.

4. The manifold as described in claim 3, in, The distal portion of the manifold includes a longitudinal axis extending proximally from the distal panel; and The central panel is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis.

5. The manifold as described in claim 2 or 3, wherein, The baffle is set at an angle relative to the center panel.

6. The manifold as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein, The baffle is circular and extends downward from the center panel.

7. The manifold as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The diameter of the baffle is greater than the height from the bottom to the top of the central panel.

8. The manifold as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The top of the baffle is positioned distally relative to the bottom of the baffle.

9. The manifold as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein, The flow steering system also includes a retaining member attached to the distal side of the baffle.

10. The manifold as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The retaining member includes a pin.

11. The manifold as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein, The flow deflector also includes a retaining member comprising a nonlinear surface with indentations.

12. The manifold as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein, The central panel is planar and rectangular.

13. The manifold as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The material collection volume is positioned below the flow deflector.

14. The manifold as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The flow steering gear has an integral structure.

15. The manifold as described in any one of claims 2-3, in, The manifold also includes a tissue trap that is removably coupled to the housing and defines the material collection volume; The baffle includes a distal side; and The distal side causes the fluid drawn through the fluid communication path to be directed toward the tissue trap.

16. The manifold as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The flow steering mechanism is a set of one or more panels molded into the housing.

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