Devices, systems, and methods for supplying fluid to an endoscope

Abstract

Devices, systems, and methods for supplying fluid to an endoscope are provided. An illustrative valve can include a valve body defining a first port configured to receive fluid from a container, a second port configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a first flow path, a third port configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a second flow path, and a passageway extending between the first, second, and third ports. The valve can include a plunger configured to move in the passageway between a first position in which the first flow path is open and the second flow path is closed and a second position in which the first and second flow paths are open. The valve can include a biasing mechanism configured to bias the plunger to the first position.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 616,994, filed January 2, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to medical fluid containers and methods, and more specifically to a container, valve, and tubing assembly for supplying fluids and / or gases to an endoscope. Background Technology

[0003] As is customary, endoscopic devices are widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. These endoscopic devices sometimes include fluid capabilities configured to supply fluid to the endoscope tip for inflating the patient's interior at a target site. Lens cleaning delivers a liquid (such as sterile water) at relatively high pressure to splash across and remove debris from the camera lens. The water source for lens cleaning and irrigation typically includes one or more fluid reservoirs having tubing and cap assemblies that create a piping loop connecting to the endoscope access channels and valve assemblies to achieve the described gas and water functions. Such tubing and cap assemblies are available in various configurations, typically involving water bottles, caps fitted to specific bottles, and arrays of tubing extending through openings in the caps. The tubing is typically arranged to accommodate specific configurations of endoscope fittings and valve assemblies.

[0004] With these factors in mind, improvements to this disclosure may be helpful. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure is provided to aid understanding, and those skilled in the art will understand that each of the aspects and features of this disclosure can be advantageously used alone in some cases or in combination with other aspects and features of this disclosure in others. The scope of the claimed subject matter is not intended to be limited by including or omitting elements, components, etc., in this disclosure. Therefore, while this disclosure is presented in relation to aspects or embodiments, it should be understood that each aspect can be claimed individually or in combination with aspects and features of that embodiment or any other embodiment.

[0006] A valve for fluidly connecting a cavity in an endoscope to a fluid reservoir is disclosed. The valve includes a valve body defining: a first port configured to receive fluid from a container; a second port configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a first flow path; a third port configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a second flow path; a passage extending between the first port, the second port, and the third port; a plunger configured to move within the passage between: a first position, in which the first flow path is open and the second flow path is closed; and a second position, in which both the first and second flow paths are open; and a biasing mechanism configured to bias the plunger to the first position.

[0007] As an alternative to or addition to any of the above embodiments, the first port includes a spiked port adapter configured to be inserted into the port of the container.

[0008] As an alternative to or addition to any of the above embodiments, the first end of the plunger extends a certain distance outside the valve body and forms a lens cleaning button.

[0009] Alternatively or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, the plunger is configured to move from the first position to the second position in response to actuation of the lens cleaning button.

[0010] Alternatively or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, the plunger is configured to move from the second position to the first position in response to the release of the lens cleaning button.

[0011] Alternatively or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, the biasing mechanism is a spring.

[0012] Alternatively or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, the container is a flexible bag.

[0013] In lieu of or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, the plunger is configured as a dual-piston plunger including a first seal and a second seal, wherein the dual-piston plunger includes a central portion having a diameter smaller than the diameter at the first seal and smaller than the diameter at the second seal.

[0014] In lieu of or in addition to any of the above embodiments, the first port is located on a first side of the valve body, and the second port and the third port are located on a second side of the valve body.

[0015] Alternatively or added to any of the above embodiments, the first side is opposite to the second side.

[0016] As an alternative to or addition to any of the above embodiments, the second port or the third port is connected to the cavity of the lens cleaning pipeline.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally to any of the above embodiments, the second port or another of the third ports is connected to the cavity of the irrigation supply line.

[0018] A container, valve, and tubing assembly arranged and configured to connect to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery is disclosed. The container, valve, and tubing assembly includes: a container configured to contain fluid, the container having a top portion and a bottom portion, the container having a port in fluid communication with the bottom portion; a fluid supply line including a first end, a second end, and a lumen extending through the fluid supply line, wherein the first end is in fluid communication with the port of the container, and the second end is positioned outside the container; a valve including a valve body defining: a first port configured to receive fluid from the container via the fluid supply line, wherein the first port includes a spiked port adapter configured to insert into the port of the container; a second port configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a first flow path; a third port configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a second flow path; a passage extending between the first port, the second port, and the third port; and a plunger configured in the passage at a position... Intermittent movement: a first position, in which the first flow path is open and the second flow path is closed; and a second position, in which both the first and second flow paths are open; and a biasing mechanism configured to bias the plunger to the first position; a lens cleaning supply line including a first end, a second end, and a cavity extending through the lens cleaning supply line, wherein the first end of the lens cleaning supply line is configured to be in fluid communication with the bottom portion of the container via the second flow path when the plunger is in the second position, and the second end of the lens cleaning supply line is positioned outside the container and the valve; and a rinsing supply line having a first end, a second end, and a cavity extending through the rinsing supply line, wherein the first end of the rinsing supply line is configured to be in fluid communication with the bottom portion of the container via the first flow path, and the second end of the rinsing supply line is positioned outside the container and the valve.

[0019] Alternatively or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, the valve is configured to continuously supply fluid to the flushing supply line when the plunger is in the first or second position.

[0020] Alternatively or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, a gas supply line may be further included, the gas supply line including a first end, a second end and a third extending through the gas supply line, wherein a cavity of the gas supply line is in operative communication with the top portion of the container, and the second end of the gas supply line is located outside the container.

[0021] Alternatively or added to any of the above embodiments, it further includes: a first seal positioned along the interface between a first end of the plunger and the valve body; and a second seal positioned along the interface between a second end of the plunger and the valve body.

[0022] Alternatively or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, wherein the second seal is configured to prevent pressurized gas from flowing back into the container through the first port along the second flow path when the plunger is in the first position.

[0023] A container, valve, and tubing kit arranged and configured to be coupled to an endoscope for use in endoscopic surgery is disclosed. The container, valve, and tubing assembly includes: a container configured to contain fluid, the container having a top portion and a bottom portion, the container having a port in fluid communication with the bottom portion; and a valve including: a valve body defining: a first port configured to receive fluid from the container via a fluid supply line, wherein the first port includes a spiked port adapter configured to be inserted into a port of the container; a second port configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a first flow path; a third port configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a second flow path; a passage extending between the first port, the second port, and the third port; a plunger configured to move within the passage between: a first position, in which the first flow path is open and the second flow path is closed; and a second position, in which both the first flow path and the second flow path are open; and a biasing mechanism configured to bias the plunger to a position where... The endoscope is configured to: a first position; a lens cleaning supply line including a first end, a second end, and a cavity extending through the lens cleaning supply line, wherein the first end of the lens cleaning supply line is configured to be in fluid communication with the bottom portion of the container via a second flow path when the plunger is in the second position, and the second end of the lens cleaning supply line is located outside the container and the valve; a gas supply line including a first end, a second end, and a cavity extending through the gas supply line, wherein the cavity of the gas supply line is in operative communication with the top portion, and the second end of the gas supply line is located outside the container; and a rinsing supply line having a first end, a second end, and a cavity extending through the rinsing supply line, wherein the first end of the rinsing supply line is configured to be permanently in fluid communication with the bottom portion of the container via a first flow path to continuously supply liquid to the endoscope, and the second end of the rinsing supply line is located outside the container and the valve.

[0024] In lieu of or as an addition to any of the above embodiments, the plunger further comprises a dual piston having a first seal at a first end of the dual piston and a second seal at a second end of the dual piston opposite to the first end.

[0025] As an alternative to or addition to any of the above embodiments, the first port includes a spiked port adapter configured to be directly inserted into the port of the container.

[0026] These and other features and advantages of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following detailed description, the scope of the claimed invention being set forth in the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Various exemplary embodiments are illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are included and form part of this specification, and the drawings, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 1 The components of an endoscope are described;

[0029] Figure 2 The components of an endoscope system are described, including an endoscope, a light source, a light source connector, a water reservoir, and a piping assembly for the delivery of air and lens cleaning fluid.

[0030] Figure 3A An endoscope system is described, which includes an endoscope, a light source, a water reservoir, and tubing components for the delivery of mixed air, lens cleaning, and irrigation fluid.

[0031] Figure 3B Depicting Figure 3A An endoscope system, wherein the system is activated to deliver air to the patient through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0032] Figure 3C Depicting Figure 3A An endoscopic system in which the system is activated to deliver lens cleaning fluid through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0033] Figure 3D Depicting Figure 3A An endoscopic system, wherein the system is activated to deliver irrigation fluid through the patient end of the endoscope;

[0034] Figure 4 A hybrid endoscope system is described, which includes a video processing unit, a connector section, a peristaltic irrigation pump, a water reservoir and top, coaxial gas supply lines and lens cleaning supply lines, upstream irrigation supply lines and downstream irrigation supply lines, and alternative gas supply lines.

[0035] Figure 5 An illustrative endoscope system is described, which has a fluid supply system and valves;

[0036] Figure 5A Another illustrative endoscope system is described, which has a fluid supply system and valves;

[0037] Figure 6Another illustrative endoscope system is described, which has a fluid supply system and valves;

[0038] Figure 6A Another illustrative endoscope system is described, which has a fluid supply system and valves;

[0039] Figure 7 A schematic cross-section of the illustrative valve in its first position is depicted;

[0040] Figure 8 A schematic cross-section of the illustrative valve in the second position is depicted;

[0041] Figure 9 A schematic cross-section of the illustrative valve in its first position is depicted; and

[0042] Figure 10 A schematic cross-section of the illustrative valve in its second position is depicted.

[0043] While this disclosure can be modified and alternatively made in various ways, its details have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments described. Rather, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0044] This disclosure will now be described with reference to exemplary medical systems that can be used in endoscopic medical procedures. However, it should be noted that reference to this particular procedure is provided for convenience only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the core concepts of the disclosed apparatus and related methods of use can be applied to any suitable procedure (medical or other). This disclosure can be understood with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or identical parts.

[0045] The term "distal" refers to the portion furthest from the user when the device is introduced into the patient's body. In contrast, the term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the user when the device is placed into the patient's body. As used herein, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example" rather than "ideal." Further, as used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" indicate a range of values ​​within + / - 10% of the stated or implied values. Additionally, terms indicating the geometry of a component / surface refer to both exact and approximate shapes.

[0046] The embodiments of this disclosure are described with specific reference to bottles (e.g., containers, reservoirs, etc.) and tubing assemblies or kits. It should be understood that such embodiments can be used to supply fluids and / or gases to an endoscope for a variety of purposes, including, for example, facilitating patient inflatation, lens cleaning, and / or irrigating the working channel to aid in flushing / aspiration of debris during endoscopic procedures.

[0047] Although this disclosure includes a description of containers and tubing kits suitable for use with endoscope systems to supply fluids and / or gases to endoscopes, the devices, systems, and methods described herein can be implemented in other medical systems requiring fluid and / or gas delivery and for a variety of other purposes.

[0048] It should be noted that references to "embodiments," "some embodiments," or "other embodiments" in the specification indicate that the described embodiments may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but each embodiment may not necessarily include that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, whether explicitly described or not, implementing such a feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments will be within the knowledge of those skilled in the art, unless expressly stated otherwise. That is, the individual elements described below, even if not explicitly shown in a specific combination, are considered to be combinable or arrangeable with each other to form other additional embodiments or to supplement and / or enrich the described embodiments, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0049] As used in this specification and the appended claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” include plural references. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally used in its sense that it includes “and / or”, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0050] As is customary, endoscopic devices are widely used to perform diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures. During endoscopic procedures, physicians may use a combination of air, irrigation, and lens cleaning as a means of flushing out debris, cleaning optics, and inflating the working chamber. Some systems use two separate water bottles for irrigation and lens cleaning, while others use a single water bottle for both. As a clinician performs each procedure, some of the water volume in the bottle is consumed, and the bottle may need to be changed once or more throughout the day. The process of changing the bottle may require the user to bend or lean forward to remove the cap and associated inlet tubing from the empty bottle and place them into a full bottle of sterile water, without allowing these tubing to come into contact with or become contaminated with external bottles or other non-sterile surfaces (e.g., to avoid posing a risk of infection to the patient). This can be particularly challenging in single-bottle devices, where multiple inlet tubings are suspended from the cap when it is removed to change the sterile water bottle.

[0051] Additionally, storing sterile water bottles alongside peristaltic pumps and other equipment on the lower shelf of a trolley can make these bottles difficult to visualize, and clinicians often fail to realize the bottles are nearing empty until they can no longer deliver irrigation or lens cleaning water through the distal endoscope. There are also inherent risks associated with storing water bottles near the endoscope control box. For example, if the water bottle fails in some way (e.g., leaks, bursts, cracks, etc.), there is a high risk of water flowing or splashing onto these costly control systems, causing significant damage or disruption.

[0052] To use a separate intravenous solution bag as the primary fluid source for endoscopic procedures (e.g., for both irrigation and lens cleaning), a device must have both a pressurized and a non-pressurized section. However, the fluid flow must be able to flow continuously to both the pressurized and non-pressurized sections upon user request. To achieve this, previous methods have employed a variety of separate and distinct components. For example, previous methods may have used ports (e.g., Y-ports), separate spikes, various separate tubing, along with separate metering valves, etc. However, this approach can be prone to failure at the interconnections between the individual components, occupies a significant amount of space, is costly, and / or requires a large amount of material (e.g., a large amount of plastic) to form each of these separate, independent components.

[0053] This article discloses containers, valves, and tubing assemblies that are easily observable by clinicians, reduce the risk of contamination, and integrate the aforementioned functions into a separate valve configured to allow continuous fluid flow to non-pressurized portions of the device (e.g., the irrigation tubing of an endoscope) and, when needed, simultaneously allow fluid flow for both irrigation and lens cleaning.

[0054] refer to Figures 1 to 2The illustration depicts an exemplary endoscope 100 and system 200, which may include an elongated shaft 100a inserted into a patient's body. A light source 205 supplies illumination light to a distal portion 100b of the endoscope 100, which may house an imager (e.g., a CCD or CMOS imager) (not shown). The light source 205 (e.g., a lamp) is housed in a video processing unit 210, which processes signals input from the imager and outputs the processed video signal to a video monitor (not shown) for viewing. The video processing unit 210 also serves as a component of an air / water supply loop by housing a pressure pump 215 (e.g., an air supply pump) within the unit.

[0055] The endoscope shaft 100a may include a distal end 100c disposed at a distal portion 100b of the shaft 100a and a flexible bend 105 proximal to the distal end 100c. The flexible bend 105 may include a hinge joint (not shown) to assist in swivel of the distal end 100c. On the end face 100d of the distal end 100c of the endoscope 100 is a gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 for supplying gas to inflate the patient at the treatment area and for supplying water to clean the lens covering the imager. An irrigation opening 225 in the end face 100d supplies irrigation fluid to the patient's treatment area. The end face 100d of the distal end 100c may also include an illumination window (not shown) for transmitting illumination light to the treatment area, and an opening 230 leading to a working channel 235 extending along the shaft 100a for passing tools to the treatment area. The working channel 235 extends along the shaft 100a to the proximal channel opening 110, which is located distal to the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. The biopsy valve 120 can be used to seal the channel opening 110 to prevent unwanted fluid leakage.

[0056] The operating handle 115 may be provided with knobs 125 for providing remote four-way steering of the distal end via wires connected to articulated joints in the flexible portion 105 (e.g., one knob controls up-and-down steering, while another controls left-and-right steering). Multiple video switches 130 for remotely operating the video processing unit 210 may be arranged on the proximal side of the handle 115. Additionally, the handle 115 is provided with a dual valve well 135. One of the valve wells 135 may receive a gas / water valve 140 for operating the injection gas and lens water supply. Gas supply lines 240a and lens cleaning supply lines 245a extend distally from the gas / water valve 140 along the shaft 100a and converge at the distal end 100c proximal to the gas / cleaning nozzle 220. Figure 2Another valve well 135 receives a suction valve 145 for operating suction operations. A suction supply line 250a extends distally from the suction valve 145 along shaft 100a to a junction in fluid communication with the working passage 235 of the endoscope 100.

[0057] The operating handle 115 is electrically and fluidly connected to the video processing unit 210 via a flexible umbilical cord 260 extending between the operating handle and the video processing unit 210, and a connector portion 265. The flexible umbilical cord 260 includes a gas (e.g., air or CO2) supply line 240b, a lens cleaning supply line 245b, a suction supply line 250b, an irrigation supply line 255b, a light guide (not shown), and an electrical signal cable (not shown). The connector portion 265 connects a light source 205 in the video processing unit to the light guide when inserted into the video processing unit 210. The light guide extends along the length of the umbilical cord 260 and the endoscope shaft 100a to transmit light to the distal end 100c of the endoscope 100. The connector portion 265 also connects an air pump 215 to the gas supply line 240b in the umbilical cord 260 when inserted into the video processing unit 210.

[0058] A water reservoir or container 270 (e.g., a water bottle) is fluidly connected to the endoscope 100 via a connector portion 265 and an umbilical cord 260. A gas supply line 240c extends from one end of an air gap 275 located between the top 280 (e.g., a bottle cap) of the reservoir 270 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir to a detachable gas / lens cleaning connector 290 on the outside of the connector portion 265. The detachable gas / lens cleaning connector 290 may be detachable from the connector portion 265 and / or the gas supply line 240c. A gas supply line 240b from the umbilical cord 260 branches in the connector portion 265 to be in fluid communication with the gas supply line 240c and with an air pump 215 at the detachable gas / lens cleaning connector 290. A lens cleaning line 245c extends from one end located at the bottom of reservoir 270 through the top 280 of reservoir 270 to a detachable connector 290 on connector portion 265 identical to that of gas supply line 240c. In other embodiments, these connectors may be separate and / or independent of each other. Connector portion 265 also has a detachable irrigation connector 293 for the irrigation supply line (not shown) extending from an irrigation water source (not shown) to the irrigation supply line 255b in umbilical conduit 260. Detachable irrigation connector 293 may be detachable from connector portion 265 and / or irrigation supply line (not shown). In some embodiments, irrigation water is supplied from a water source (not shown) independent of water reservoir 270 via a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In other embodiments, the irrigation supply line and lens cleaning line 245c may draw water from the same reservoir. The connector portion 265 may also include a detachable suction connector 295 for suction supply lines 250b and 250a, which fluidly connects a vacuum source (e.g., hospital ward suction) (not shown) to the umbilical cord line 260 and the endoscope 100. The detachable suction connector 295 may be detachable from the connector portion 265 and / or the suction supply lines 250b and / or the vacuum source.

[0059] Gas supply line 240b and lens cleaning supply line 245b are fluidly connected to valve well 135 for gas / water valve 140 and are configured such that operation of gas / water valve 140 in the well controls the supply of gas or lens cleaning water to the distal end 100c of endoscope 100. Suction supply line 250b is fluidly connected to valve well 135 for suction valve 145 and is configured such that operation of suction valve in the well controls suction at the working channel 235 of endoscope 100.

[0060] refer to Figure 2This section explains exemplary operation of an endoscope system 200, which includes an endoscope, such as the endoscope 100 described above. Airflow from an air pump 215 in the video processing unit 210 is directed through a connector portion 265 and via a gas supply line 240b in the umbilical conduit 260 to a gas / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115, and via a connector 290 on the connector portion 265 to a water reservoir 270 via a gas supply line 240c. When the gas / water valve 140 is in the neutral position, the user's finger is not on the valve, and air is allowed to flow from the valve to the atmosphere. In the first position, the user's finger is used to block the vent to the atmosphere. Gas is allowed to flow down the gas supply line 240a from the valve 140 and out from the distal end 100c of the endoscope 100, for example, to inflate the patient's treatment area. When the gas / water valve 140 is pressed down to the second position, gas is blocked from leaving the valve, allowing the pressure of the air supplied from the air pump 215 in the water reservoir 270 to rise. Pressure is applied to the water source, causing water to exit from the lens cleaning line 245c, pass through the connector portion 265, the umbilical line 260, through the gas / water valve 140, and down the lens cleaning supply line 245a, where it merges with the gas supply line 240a, and then exits the distal end 100c of the endoscope 100 via the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220. The air pump pressure can be calibrated to provide lens cleaning water at a relatively low flow rate compared to the irrigation water supply.

[0061] The flow rate of the lens cleaning water is controlled by the gas pressure in the water reservoir 270. As water is expelled from the water reservoir 270 through the lens cleaning line 245c and the gas pressure in the water reservoir 270 begins to drop, the air pump 215 replaces the lost air supply in the water reservoir 270 to maintain a substantially constant pressure, which in turn provides a substantially constant flow rate of lens cleaning water. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) may be placed in the path of the gas supply line 240c to filter out unwanted contaminants or particles, preventing them from entering the water reservoir 270. In some embodiments, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed in the path of the lens cleaning supply line to help prevent water from flowing back into the reservoir 270 after it has passed through the valve.

[0062] Compared to lens cleaning water, irrigation water typically requires a relatively high flow rate because its primary purpose is to remove debris obstructing the user's view in the patient's treatment area. As described, irrigation is typically achieved using a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump). In embodiments with a separate water source for irrigation, tubing placed at the bottom of the water source passes through the top of the water source and into the head on the upstream side of the pump. Tubing on the downstream side of the pump is connected via an irrigation connector 293 on connector portion 265 to irrigation supply line 255b in umbilical cord 260 and irrigation supply line 255a of endoscope 100. When irrigation water is needed, fluid is pumped from the water source by operating the irrigation pump (e.g., by pressing a foot switch (not shown)), and the fluid flows through irrigation connector 293, through irrigation supply line 255b in umbilical cord 260, and down the irrigation supply line in the endoscope shaft 100a to the distal end 100c. To balance the pressure in the water source as water is pumped out of the irrigation supply line, a vent (not shown) may be included in the top 280 of the water reservoir 270. The vent allows atmospheric air into the water source, thereby preventing the buildup of negative pressure in the water source that could create a vacuum that would draw unwanted material back from the patient through the endoscope toward the water source. In some embodiments, similar to the lens cleaning line 245c, an outflow check valve or other one-way valve configuration (not shown) may be placed in the path of the irrigation supply line to help prevent backflow into the reservoir after water has passed through the valve.

[0063] Figures 3A to 3D This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an embodiment of a hybrid system 300, in which supply lines for rinsing and lens cleaning are connected to and drawn from a single water reservoir. It is conceivable that fluids other than water can be used, such as, but not limited to, brine. The hybrid system 300 includes a single water reservoir 305, a cap 310 for the water reservoir, a gas supply line 240c, a lens cleaning supply line 245c, a rinsing pump 315 with a foot switch 318, an upstream supply line 320 for rinsing, and a downstream rinsing supply line 255c. The cap 310 can be configured to be attached to the water reservoir 305 in a tightly sealed manner via a typical threaded arrangement. The cap 310 may include a gasket to seal the cap 310 to the reservoir 305. The gasket may be an O-ring, flange, collar, and / or the like, and may be formed from any suitable material. Several through openings (325a, 325b, 325c) in the cover 310 are configured to receive the gas supply line 240c, the lens cleaning supply line 245c, and the upstream flushing supply line 320, respectively. Figures 3A to 3D The system depicted includes separate piping for gas supply, lens cleaning, and rinsing.

[0064] In other embodiments, the gas supply line 240c and the lens cleaning line 245c may be combined in a coaxial arrangement. Some illustrative coaxial arrangements are described in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 558,239 entitled "INTEGRATED CONTAINER AND TUBE SET FORFLUID DELIVERY WITH AN ENDOSCOPE" and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 558,256 entitled "TUBING ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FORFLUID DELIVERY", the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference. For example, a gas supply line can define a cavity with a diameter large enough to accommodate a smaller diameter lens cleaning line, which is coaxially received within the gas supply line and supplies air to a water source in an annular space surrounding the lens cleaning line to pressurize a water reservoir (see, for example, gas supply line 240c and lens cleaning supply line 245c). The lens cleaning supply line can be configured to exit the cavity defined by the coaxial gas supply line with any suitable sealing method (e.g., orifice, fitting, collar, and / or similar construction) for use with the endoscope connector portion (e.g., Figure 2 The purpose of changing the coaxial arrangement to a side-by-side arrangement is to connect the detachable gas / lens cleaning connector (connector part 265) to the connector part 265.

[0065] In various embodiments, different valve configurations (not shown) may be incorporated into the piping of the various embodiments disclosed herein, including systems 200 and 300. For example, an inflow check valve may be provided in the path of the gas supply line 240c to help prevent backflow into the air pump 215. In this way, the pressure built up in the water reservoir 305 creates a pressure differential between the water source and the gas supply line 240c, thereby helping to maintain positive pressure in the water source, even when large amounts of water can be removed from the water source during the flushing function. This arrangement compensates for any time lag in the delivery of air from the air pump 215 to the water reservoir 305, which could otherwise lead to a negative pressure vacuum in the water reservoir. Similarly, an outflow check valve (such as a one-way valve with an inlet / outlet and a valve insert) can be incorporated into the lens cleaning supply line 245c, the upstream flushing supply line 320, and / or the downstream flushing supply line 255c to help prevent water from flowing back from either or both of the lens cleaning supply line and the flushing supply line under negative pressure conditions, as described.

[0066] More generally, in many embodiments, a check valve can refer to any type of configuration used to passively allow fluid to flow in only one direction. For example, a check valve can include or refer to one or more of a ball check valve, diaphragm check valve, rocker check valve, swashplate check valve, baffle valve, shut-off check valve, lift check valve, straight-through check valve, duckbill valve, pneumatic check valve, reed valve, and flow check valve. Therefore, as used herein, a check valve is intended to be separate from and distinct from an active valve that operates in a binary manner as an on / off valve or switch to allow flow to be conducted or to be cut off (e.g., plug valve, solenoid valve, peristaltic pump).

[0067] exist Figures 3A to 3D During system operation, the water flow for irrigation can be achieved by operating the irrigation pump 315. The water flow for lens cleaning can be achieved by pressing the gas / water valve 140 on the operating handle 115 of the endoscope 100. These functions can be performed independently or simultaneously. When lens cleaning and irrigation are operated simultaneously, the pressure in the system can be controlled as fluid is removed from the water reservoir 305 to maintain the lens cleaning supply line 245c at the pressure required to substantially complete low-flow-rate lens cleaning, while compensating for depressurization in the water reservoir 305 due to the supply of high-flow-rate irrigation. When the pressure in the water reservoir decreases due to the use of the lens cleaning function, the irrigation function, or both functions simultaneously, the depressurization can be compensated via the air pump 215 through the gas supply line 240c.

[0068] Figures 3A to 3D The schematic setup is highlighted to illustrate the different flow paths possible in the hybrid system 300, which has a supply line 320 for irrigation and a lens cleaning supply line 245c connected to and drawing water from a single water reservoir 305. (See diagram) Figure 3A As shown, endoscope 100 is in a neutral state with gas / water valve 140 in the open position. In the neutral state, neither gas nor lens cleaning water is delivered to the distal end of the endoscope. More precisely, gas (pressure) is delivered along path A from pressurized air pump 215 and via connector portion 265 through gas supply line 240b in umbilical conduit 260 and vented to the atmosphere through gas / water valve 140. Because the system is open at the vent in gas / water valve 140, no buildup is made to pressurize water reservoir 305, and therefore no water is forced through lens cleaning supply line 245c.

[0069] like Figure 3BAs shown, the endoscope 100 is in a gas delivery state, with the gas / water valve 140 in a first position. When gas is needed at the distal end 100c (e.g., to clean the distal end face 100d or to inflate a treatment area on the patient's body), the user blocks the vent hole (first position) in the gas / water valve 140 with their thumb, finger, etc. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered from the air pump 215 along path B and flows through the gas supply line 240b in the umbilical conduit 265 via the connector portion 265. The gas continues through the gas / water valve 140 to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exits at the distal end 100c at the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220. Because the system is open at the gas / lens water nozzle 220, there is no buildup to pressurize the water reservoir, and therefore no water is pushed through the lens cleaning supply line 245c.

[0070] like Figure 3C As shown, the endoscope 100 is in the lens cleaning delivery state, with the gas / water valve 140 in the second position. When lens cleaning is required at the distal end 100c (e.g., to clean the end face 100d of the distal end 100c), the user presses the valve 140 to its furthest point in the valve well 135 while keeping the vent hole in the air / water valve blocked. The second position blocks the gas supply to both the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope, and opens the gas / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to pass through the lens cleaning supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exit the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal end 100c. In this state, gas (pressure) is delivered along path C from the air pump 215, through the branch line in the connector portion 265, and exits the gas supply line 240c to the water reservoir 305. Gas (pressure) pressurizes the surface of the remaining water 285 in reservoir 305 and pushes the water upward along the lens cleaning supply line 245c to connector portion 265. The pressurized lens cleaning water is further pushed through the lens cleaning supply line 245b in the umbilical conduit 260 and through the gas / water valve 140. Because system 300 is closed, gas pressure is allowed to build up and maintain a calibrated pressure level in water reservoir 305, rather than being released to the atmosphere or delivered to the patient. This pressure, along with the endoscope supply line and external tubing, is converted into lens cleaning water at a range of flow rates.

[0071] like Figure 3DAs shown, the endoscope 100 is in the irrigation delivery state. This can be performed at the same or different time as the delivery of gas and / or lens cleaning water. When irrigation is required at the distal end 100c (e.g., if visibility in the treatment area is poor or obstructed by debris, etc.), the user activates the irrigation pump 315 (e.g., by pressing the foot switch 318) to deliver water along path D. With pump 315 activated, water is drawn from the water reservoir 305 through the upstream irrigation supply line 320 and pumped along the downstream irrigation supply line 255c to the connector portion 265. The pressure of the irrigation pump head pushes the irrigation water further through the irrigation supply line 255b in the umbilical line 260, through the irrigation supply line 255a in the endoscope shaft 100a, and exits at the irrigation opening 225 at the distal end 100c. The flushing pump pressure can be calibrated along with the endoscope flushing supply line and external tubing to deliver flushing fluid at a range of flow rates.

[0072] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of a hybrid system 400, which includes a video processing unit 210, a connector portion 265, a peristaltic irrigation pump 315, a water reservoir 405 and a top 407, coaxial gas supply lines and lens cleaning supply lines 410, corresponding upstream irrigation supply lines 320 and downstream irrigation supply lines 255c, and an alternative gas (e.g., CO2) supply line 415. A section of the alternative gas supply line 415 extends from the air gap 275 located between the top 407 of the water reservoir 405 and the remaining water 285 in the reservoir (see [link to diagram]). Figure 2One end of the endoscope 100 passes through an additional opening 420 in the top of the reservoir to a detachable connector 425 for an alternative gas supply source (e.g., a CO2 hospital ward gas source). When an alternative gas supply (e.g., CO2 gas) is desired, the air pump 215 on the video processing unit 210 can be shut off, and CO2 gas, instead of air, flows to the water reservoir 405, thereby pressurizing the water surface. Typically, the flow of CO2 in the endoscope 100 is similar to the flow of air. In a neutral state, the CO2 gas flows upward and backward along the gas supply line 240c to the connector portion 265, upward along the gas supply line 240b, and is discharged to the atmosphere through the gas / water valve 140. In a first position, the user seals the vent in the gas / water valve 140, and the CO2 gas flows through the gas / water valve to the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exits the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220 at the distal end 100c. In the second position, the user presses valve 140 to the bottom of valve well 135 while keeping the vent hole in the gas / water valve closed. This second position blocks the supply of CO2 gas to both the atmosphere and the gas supply line 240a in the endoscope 100, and opens gas / water valve 140 to allow lens cleaning water to pass through the lens cleaning supply line 245a in the endoscope shaft 100a and exit at the distal end 100c of the gas / lens cleaning nozzle 220. Gas (pressure) in reservoir 405 is maintained by delivering gas via an alternative gas (e.g., CO2) supply line 415. The rinsing function can be described in relation to the above. Figure 3D The operation described is accomplished in a similar manner. As mentioned above, it may be desirable to reduce the chance of contamination of pipe fittings 240c, 245c, 320, 410, and 415 during water tank replacement.

[0073] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an illustrative endoscope system 500 is depicted, which can reduce the frequency of water reservoir replacements, reduce the number of parts compared to previous tubing kits (e.g., the tubing kits described above), and / or reduce the chance of contamination during water reservoir replacement. System 500 may include several advantages over the aforementioned current bottle system. System 500 may include [related to...]. Figures 1 to 4 The described endoscope system and similar components are described; however, not all features can be described or shown herein.

[0074] Typically, system 500 may include a first reservoir 502, a second reservoir 530, and a third reservoir 560. The first reservoir 502 may be configured to supply fluid for both irrigation (e.g., via the second reservoir 530) and lens cleaning (e.g., via the third reservoir 560). This allows the use of a single fluid source to supply fluid for both irrigation and lens cleaning. Although not explicitly shown, the first reservoir 502 may include printed lines, numbers, or other visual markings to allow a user to easily determine how much fluid remains in the first reservoir 502.

[0075] The first reservoir 502 may include a first container 504 configured to contain a first volume of fluid 506. In the illustrated embodiment, the first container 504 is fluidly coupled to a second fluid reservoir 530 and may be selectively fluidly coupled to a third reservoir 560. The second reservoir 530 may include a second container 532 configured to contain a second volume of fluid 534, and the third reservoir 560 may include a third container 562 configured to contain a third volume of fluid 564.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the second container 532 is fluidly connected to the irrigation supply line 570 and configured to provide fluid for irrigation. Typically, the irrigation supply line 570 may be a water or fluid supply line or tube for supplying water or other fluids to the endoscope. The third container 562 may be fluidly connected to the gas supply line 536 and the lens cleaning supply line 538 and configured to provide fluid for lens cleaning to the endoscope. Typically, the lens supply line 538 may be a water or fluid supply line or tube for supplying water or other fluids to the endoscope. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas supply line 536 and the lens cleaning supply line 538 may be arranged side by side. However, in other embodiments, the gas supply line 536 and the lens cleaning supply line 538 may be arranged coaxially. For example, the gas supply line can define a cavity with a diameter large enough to accommodate a smaller diameter lens cleaning line, which is coaxially received within the gas supply line, and supply air to the water source in an annular space surrounding the lens cleaning line to pressurize the third reservoir 560. The lens cleaning supply line can be configured to exit the cavity defined by the coaxial gas supply line with any suitable sealing method (such as orifice, fitting, collar, and / or similar structure) for the purpose of changing from a coaxial arrangement to a side-by-side arrangement at the detachable gas / lens cleaning connection connected to the endoscope connector portion 265.

[0077] The first container 504 can be formed from one or more layers of lightweight, flexible materials, such as, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), aluminum, nylon, polyethylene (PE), plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the first container 504 can be completely translucent, completely opaque, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the first container 504 can be similar to a flexible bag (e.g., an intravenous (IV) fluid bag) used for delivering intravenous fluids in a clinical setting. Such bags can be readily available and familiar to clinicians, as they are widely used in a variety of sizes. The second container 532 and the third container 562 can be formed from rigid bottles. However, it is contemplated that any of the first container 504, the second container 532, or the third container 562 can be formed from a flexible bag or a rigid bottle as needed. Additionally, although... Figure 5 The embodiment shown employs a second reservoir 530 having a second container 532 configured to contain a second volume of fluid 534. However, in some embodiments, the second reservoir 530 may be omitted, and the first container 504 may be fluidly connected (e.g., via a flushing supply line 570) to a downstream component, such as a flushing pump 315. For example, as Figure 5A As shown, the second reservoir 530 is omitted, allowing the first end 556 of the upstream flushing supply line 570 to be directly connected to the second port 526 of the valve body 527. In other words, Figure 5A Similar to Figure 5 However, the following changes are made: the second reservoir 530 is omitted, so that the first end 556 of the upstream flushing supply line 570 is directly connected to the end 556 of the pipe 570, which is directly connected to the second port 526 of the valve body 527. It is conceivable that this can further reduce the number of connection points in the fluid circuit.

[0078] The volumes of the first container 504, the second container 532, and / or the third container 562 can be variable. For example, the volumes of the first container 504, the second container 532, and / or the third container 562 can be 500 ml or more, 1000 ml or more, 2000 ml or more, 3000 ml, 4000 ml or more, etc. The volumes can be less than 500 ml or greater than 4000 ml as needed. One, two, or all of the first container 504, the second container 532, and / or the third container 562 can be pre-filled with water or other fluids (e.g., before entering the operating room or at the time of manufacture). In some cases, clinicians can select containers 502, 530, 560 from a plurality of available containers of different sizes based on the number and / or type of surgeries expected for a typical day or a particular day. In the illustrated embodiment, the first container 502 can supply fluid to the second container 530 and the third container 560. By selecting a first reservoir 502 with a sufficiently large volume to accommodate a full day of surgery, the need to replace the sterile fluid source (e.g., the first reservoir 502) can be reduced or eliminated. In some cases, the first reservoir 502 can be used to periodically refill the second reservoir 530 and / or the third reservoir 560. Therefore, the volume of the first reservoir 502 can be larger than the volumes of the second reservoir 530 and / or the third reservoir 560, but this is not necessary.

[0079] It is conceivable that flexible bags can use less plastic (or other materials) than bottles designed to hold a similar amount of fluid. Therefore, using flexible bags as fluid reservoirs 502, 530, and 560 can improve the environmental sustainability of system 500. For example, if a user sets up a 3000 mL (3 liters) bag reservoir 502 for the system and therefore does not need to use three separate one-liter bottles, a significant reduction in waste can be achieved. It is further conceivable that when disposed of or discarded, flexible bag reservoirs can occupy a smaller volume than bottles capable of holding an equivalent volume of fluid.

[0080] The first reservoir 502 may further include one or more ports 508a, 508b, such as, but not limited to, spiked ports or diaphragm ports, extending from the interior of the first container 504 and in selective fluid communication with the interior of the container. Ports 508a, 508b may be integrally formed with the first container 504. Ports 508a, 508b may be generally tubular structures, wherein each port 508a, 508b defines a cavity extending therethrough. The cavities of ports 508a, 508b may be configured to selectively fluidly connect the interior of the first container 504 to another component (such as, but not limited to, fluid or water supply pipes 520 and / or valves 524), as described herein. In some embodiments, ports 508a, 508b may be located adjacent to the bottom end 512 of the first reservoir 502. However, this is not required. Ports 508a, 508b may be located at other locations as needed. If ports 508a and 508b are located outside the bottom end 512 of the first container 504, a suction tube or tube extension may be required to access the fluid at the bottom of the first container 504. In some cases, at least one port 508b may be configured to connect to a water supply tube 520, while another port 508a may be configured to allow a user to add additives to the fluid 506. Although the first reservoir 502 is shown to include two ports 508a and 508b, the first reservoir 502 may include one or more ports as needed.

[0081] Although not explicitly shown, ports 508a and 508b may each include a removable cap or seal configured to form a fluid-impermeable seal with ports 508a and 508b. The removable cap or seal helps maintain the sterility of ports 508a and 508b. The removable cap or seal can be attached to the free end of ports 508a and 508b using several different techniques. For example, the cap or seal can be attached to ports 508a and 508b using threaded engagement, friction engagement, snap-fit ​​engagement, etc. In other instances, the cap or seal can be removed by a torsional movement configured to disconnect the cap or seal from ports 508a and 508b. Once the cap or seal has been removed, ports 508a and 508b can be pierced using a spiked end or spiked port adapter 510 connected to water supply line 520 and / or valve 524. For example, in addition to a removable cap or seal, ports 508a and 508b may include internal seals disposed within the cavities of ports 508a and 508b, which may be punctured or penetrated by the spike port adapter 510. The internal seals may be configured to prevent fluid 506 from leaking from the first container 504 before the spike port adapter 510 is inserted into ports 508a and 508b. In some embodiments, the internal seals may be self-sealing, preventing fluid leakage from ports 508a and 508b when the spike port adapter 510 is removed. The outer surface of the spike port adapter 510 may form an interference fit with the inner surface of ports 508a and 508b. It is conceivable that the spike port adapter 510 may be inserted into one of ports 508a and 508b using commonly used aseptic techniques (such as those used with IV fluid bags), and / or it is conceivable that the spike port adapter 510 may be integrated into valve 524. This can help reduce the risk of infection by maintaining sterile components and preventing contaminants from being introduced into fluid 506. It is further conceivable that additives could be added to fluid 506 via one of ports 508a and 508b using similar aseptic techniques.

[0082] The first reservoir 502 may include a handle 516 positioned adjacent to its top portion 514. The handle 516 may define an opening or through-hole 518 for receiving a hand or hook to carry the first reservoir 502. In some cases, the handle 516 may include an undulating surface configured to provide a more ergonomic grip for the user. It is conceivable that the handle 516 may be formed from a material similar to or different from the first container 504, as needed. In some examples, the handle 516 may be formed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC), etc. The handle 516 may allow the first reservoir 502 to be suspended on a hook, such as, but not limited to, an IV stand. Suspending the first reservoir 502 allows it to be positioned above the height of the endoscope cart, enabling the user to see the fluid level 506 at any time. This can help clinicians avoid fluid depletion during surgery. Additionally, raising the reservoir eliminates the need for clinicians to bend or lean forward during system 500 setup and / or replacement of the first reservoir 502. In some cases, the pressure head generated by raising the first reservoir 502 allows for rapid pre-charging of the irrigation circuit (and / or lens cleaning circuit, if so connected), saving time during setup. It is further conceivable that suspending the first reservoir 502 on a hook or IV stand allows it to be positioned away from expensive capital equipment, thereby reducing or eliminating the possibility of fluid inadvertently flowing onto or onto capital equipment and causing damage or destruction.

[0083] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the first reservoir 502 may be connected in fluid communication with a cavity of the water supply line 520. The water supply line 520 extends from a first end coupled to the spike port adapter 510 to a second end 522 coupled to the valve 524. However, in some embodiments, the first reservoir 502 may be connected in direct fluid communication with the valve 524. In other words, in some embodiments, the spike port adapter 510 may be included within the valve 524, for example, regarding... Figure 6 As described. It is conceivable that valve 524 may be a separate structure connected to container first reservoir 502, or it may be formed as an integral structure with first reservoir 502.

[0084] In some embodiments, valve 524 may include a branch connector, such as a "Y" connector or a "T" connector, having a first port 540 defining a first fluid inlet (e.g., a first inlet or first inlet branch), a second port 526 defining a first fluid outlet (e.g., a first outlet or first outlet branch), and a third port 528 defining a second fluid outlet (e.g., a second outlet or second outlet branch). However, it is contemplated that valve 524 may include more than one fluid inlet and more than two fluid outlets, if so required.

[0085] The first port 540 can be configured to receive fluid from a container (such as the first container 504). For example, the first port 540 of valve 524 can be coupled to the second end 522 of water supply pipe 520 to receive fluid flow from the first reservoir 502. Valve 524 can be configured to divert some of the fluid flow to the second port 526 and some of the fluid flow to the third port 528. The second port 526 can be fluidly coupled to a cavity of the second fluid supply pipe 542. The second fluid supply pipe 542 extends from a second end coupled to a cap 544 of the second container 532 to a first end coupled to the second port 526. The second water supply pipe 542 can be configured to selectively fluidly connect the first reservoir 502 to the second reservoir 530. For example, the second water supply pipe 542 can extend through an opening or port in the cap 544 to allow fluid to enter the interior of the second container 532 from a cavity of the second water supply pipe 542. The opening in the cover 544 may include a seal or O-ring configured to seal the cover 544 around the conduit 542 in a way that prevents leakage of fluid and pressure. In some cases, the second water supply conduit 542 may include a flow control mechanism (not explicitly shown), such as, but not limited to, a valve, a check valve, a clamp, a plug valve, etc., which selectively allows fluid flow from the first reservoir 502 to the second reservoir 530.

[0086] The third port 528 can be fluidly connected to the cavity of the third fluid supply line 546. The third fluid supply line 546 extends from a second end connected to the cap 548 of the third container 562 to a first end connected to the third port 528. The third fluid supply line 546 can be configured to selectively connect the first reservoir 502 to the third reservoir 560. For example, the third fluid supply line 546 can extend through an opening or port in the cap 548 to allow fluid to enter the interior of the third container 562 from the cavity of the third fluid supply line 546. The opening in the cap 548 may include a seal or O-ring configured to seal the cap 548 around the line 546 in a leak-proof and pressure-free manner. In some cases, the third fluid supply line 546 may include a flow control mechanism 550, such as, but not limited to, a valve, a check valve, a clamp, a plug valve, etc., which selectively allows fluid flow from the first reservoir 502 to the third reservoir 560. It is further conceivable that the flow control mechanism 550 can prevent air / gas from flowing from the third reservoir 560 to the first reservoir 502 and / or the second reservoir 530. It is conceivable that the flow control mechanism 550 can be opened only when it is desired to add fluid from the first container 504 to the third container 562. However, in some cases, the flow control mechanism 550 can be omitted from the third fluid supply line 546. For example, some embodiments herein can utilize a third fluid supply line 546 without a flow control mechanism other than the valve 524, at least due to the presence of the valve 524. It is conceivable that using the valve 524 as the flow control mechanism for the third fluid supply line 546 can reduce the number of connection points in the fluid loop. Fluid can be added to the second container 532 as needed, either while the flushing pump 315 is operating or when the flushing pump 315 is idle.

[0087] Valve 524 can be positioned such that the first port 540 flows upstream of the second port 526 and the third port 528 relative to fluid flow from the first reservoir 502. In some embodiments, valve 524 and spike port adapter 510 can be molded or formed as a single integral structure. For example, the first port 540 may include a spike port adapter 510 configured to insert into a port (such as port 508b of the first container 504), such as... Figure 6 As shown. It can be envisioned that this could reduce the number of connection points in the fluid loop.

[0088] An upstream irrigation supply line 570 extends from a second end region 552 outside the second container 532 and located within the pump head 554 of the peristaltic irrigation pump 315 to a first end 556. The first end 556 of the upstream irrigation supply line 570 extends through an opening in the cap 544 of the second reservoir 530 and is located adjacent to the bottom portion 558 of the second container 532. The opening in the cap 544 may include a seal or O-ring configured to seal the cap 544 around the line 570 in a leak-proof and pressure-free manner. The second end of the upstream irrigation supply line 570 is configured to be fluidly connected to the irrigation chamber of the endoscope 100. When flushing water is required, fluid is pumped from the second container 532 by operating the flushing pump 315 (e.g., by pressing a foot switch (not shown)). The fluid flows from the second reservoir 530 through the upstream flushing supply line 570, through the downstream flushing supply line 255c, through the flushing connector 293, through the flushing supply line 255b in the umbilical line 260, and down along the flushing supply line 255a in the endoscope shaft 100a to the distal end 100c. When fluid 534 is pumped from the second reservoir 530, fluid 506 from the first reservoir 502 can be continuously supplied to the second reservoir 530 via valve 524. Alternatively, a flow control mechanism positioned in series with the second fluid supply line 542 and valve 524 can be opened to refill the second reservoir 530 as needed.

[0089] The downstream irrigation supply line 255c may include a loaded check valve or flow control valve (not explicitly shown) positioned in series with the downstream irrigation supply line 255c. This flow control valve prevents unintentional flow of fluid from the first container 504 into the endoscope 100. In some cases, the flow control valve may be configured to open when the pressure within the downstream irrigation supply line 255c reaches a predetermined minimum pressure. The flow control valve may also prevent fluid leakage from the downstream irrigation supply line 255c when the endoscope 100 is changed between patients.

[0090] A gas supply line 536 extends from a second end outside the third container 562 and through an opening in its cover 548. The gas supply line 536 may extend into the interior of the third container 562 and terminate within a reservoir gap (e.g., above the level of fluid 564). However, in some cases, the gas supply line 536 may terminate within fluid 564. A cavity extends through the gas supply line 536 to receive air and / or gas flow therethrough. The cavity of the gas supply line 536 may be in operative fluid communication with the top portion of the interior of the third container 562. A lens cleaning supply line 538 extends from a second end outside the third reservoir 560 to a first end 568 in fluid communication with the bottom portion 566 of the third container 562. A cavity extends through the lens cleaning supply line 538 to receive fluid flow therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, the gas supply line 536 and the water supply line 538 may be coupled to the third container 562 through separate openings in the cover 548. However, this is not necessary. In some cases, the gas supply line 536 and the lens cleaning supply line 538 can be arranged coaxially. The opening in the cover 548 may include a seal or O-ring configured to seal the cover 548 around the lines 536 and 538 in a way that prevents leakage of fluid and pressure.

[0091] Although not explicitly shown, in some embodiments, the alternative gas supply line may be coupled to an alternative gas supply source (e.g., a CO2 hospital ward gas source) and fluidly coupled to a third reservoir 560. The alternative gas supply may be used to pressurize the third container 562 to supply lens cleaning water to the endoscope 100 and / or to provide gas injection.

[0092] Fluid 506 from the first reservoir 502 can be supplied to the third reservoir 560 by changing the position of valve 524. For example, when the plunger is in a second position that opens the first and second flow paths, fluid 506 from the first reservoir 502 can be supplied to the third reservoir 560. Additionally, in some cases, fluid 506 from the first reservoir 502 can be supplied to the third reservoir 560 by opening or releasing a flow control mechanism 550 positioned in series with the third fluid supply line 546. In some cases, it may be necessary to release the pressure within the third reservoir 560 before allowing fluid to flow from the first reservoir 502 to the third reservoir 560. It is conceivable that a pressure relief valve or a three-way stopcock valve can be provided in the gas supply line 536 to allow pressure release in the third reservoir 560. Because the pressurized third reservoir 562 is fluidly isolated from the first reservoir 504 when the plunger is in a given position (e.g., in the first position) and / or when the flow control mechanism 550 is closed, it is conceivable that a clinician can replace the first reservoir 502 with a new (full) reservoir without interrupting patient insufflation. Interruption of patient insufflation could lead to disruption of the positioning of the endoscope 100 within the body. In current one- or two-bottle systems, it may not be possible to replace the water reservoir without interrupting patient insufflation.

[0093] In some embodiments, the irrigation pump 315 may be omitted. For example, the first reservoir 502 may be inserted into a compression sleeve. When irrigation fluid is desired, the compression sleeve may be activated to apply pressure to the outer surface of the first reservoir 502 and provide the necessary pressure for performing irrigation at the distal end of the endoscope 100.

[0094] In some embodiments, the lens cleaning supply line may be connected to the first port 508a. In this embodiment, the lens cleaning supply line and the irrigation supply line may be connected to the same reservoir 502. The first reservoir 502 may be inserted into a compression sleeve, as described above. The pressure applied by the compression sleeve may be sufficient to supply pressurized fluid for both irrigation and lens cleaning to the endoscope without the use of an auxiliary pump (such as an irrigation pump) or a pressure source (such as an injector).

[0095] If it is necessary to replace the first reservoir 502 with a new full bag, for example when the first reservoir 502 is empty or nearly empty, the user can suspend the new bag near the first reservoir 502 to be replaced. The user can then disengage the spiked port adapter 510 from port 508b and insert the spiked port adapter 510 into the port of the new bag. This can be performed without requiring the clinician to bend or lean to access the first reservoir 502. Port 508b is self-sealing to prevent fluid leakage from the first reservoir 502 being replaced. This method of replacing the first reservoir 502 can have a lower risk of introducing contaminants into the system compared to conventional bottle systems. For example, the replacement method described herein allows the first reservoir 502 to be replaced without causing tubing to become tangled on the cap (as is the case in bottle systems). Furthermore, the system 500 can remain substantially closed while the first reservoir 502 is being replaced.

[0096] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to supply flushing fluid without a dedicated pump or by pressurizing a fluid reservoir.

[0097] Figure 6 Another illustrative endoscope system 501 is depicted, which includes a fluid supply system and valves. System 600 may include [missing information - likely related to...]. Figures 1 to 4 The described endoscope system and similar components are described; however, not all features can be described or shown herein. Figure 6 Similar to Figure 5 However, with the following changes: valve 524 and spiked port adapter 510 are formed or shaped as a single integral structure, which is configured to be directly inserted into a port (such as port 508b of the first container 504), as... Figure 6 As shown. That is, valve 524 can be configured (e.g., in the case where the spiked port adapter 510 extends a certain distance from the first port 540 outside the valve body 527) to be directly (e.g., in the absence of intermediate components such as water supply pipe 520) inserted into the port of the container, such as Figure 6 As shown. It can be envisioned that this could further reduce the number of connection points in the fluid loop. Although Figure 6 The embodiment shown employs a second reservoir 530 having a second container 532 configured to contain a second volume of fluid 534. However, in some embodiments, the second reservoir 530 may be omitted, and the first container 504 may be fluidly connected (e.g., via a flushing supply line 570) to a downstream component, such as a flushing pump 315. For example, as Figure 6A As shown, the second reservoir 530 is omitted, allowing the first end 556 of the upstream flushing supply line 570 to be directly connected to the second port 526 of the valve body 527. In other words, Figure 6ASimilar to Figure 6 However, the following changes are made: the second reservoir 530 is omitted, so that the first end 556 of the upstream flushing supply line 570 is directly connected to the end 556 of the pipe 570, which is directly connected to the second port 526 of the valve body 527. It is conceivable that this can further reduce the number of connection points in the fluid circuit.

[0098] Figure 7 A schematic cross-section of the illustrative valve 524 in its first position is depicted. (See diagram.) Figure 7 As shown, valve 524 includes valve body 527. Valve body 527 can be a rigid component formed of plastic, metal, and / or another type of material. Valve body 527 can define various ports and passageways 724 extending between the various ports. For example, valve body 527 can define a first port 540, a second port 526, a third port 528, and passageways 724 extending between the first port 540, the second port 526, and the third port 528. Retention cap 733 can retain plunger 730 within valve body 527. In some embodiments, retention cap 733 can include a snap-lock (not shown) or other type of mechanism to retain plunger 730 within valve body 527. Retention cap 733 can be glued, threaded, clamped into valve body 527, or otherwise attached to valve body.

[0099] As described herein, a first port 540 (e.g., an inlet port) can be configured to receive fluid from a container (such as a first container 504) (e.g., indicated by arrow 750). A second port 526 can be in fluid communication with the first port 540 via a first flow path. The first flow path can extend along a portion of the passage 724 between the first port 540 and the second port 526. Figure 7 As shown, when the plunger 730 is in the first position, a first flow path is opened between the first port 540 and the second port 526 (e.g., allowing fluid flow along the first flow path). Thus, at least a portion of the fluid 750 received at the first port 540 can be transferred via the first flow path to the second port 526, at which point the fluid (shown as arrow 752) can exit the valve 524 via the second port 526. For example, fluid 752 can be supplied to a cavity in a flushing supply line, such as a cavity in a flushing supply line 570 and / or a cavity in a second fluid supply line 542, as per [reference to...]. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As described herein. In some cases, fluid 752 may be continuously supplied to cavities of irrigation supply lines, such as cavities of irrigation supply line 570 and / or cavities of second fluid supply line 542, to facilitate aspects thereof, such as continuous fluid supply to the endoscope via a first flow path.

[0100] The third port 528 can be configured to be in fluid communication with the first port 540 via a second flow path. The second flow path can extend along a portion of the passage 724 between the first port 540 and the third port 528. Figure 7 As shown, when the plunger 730 is in the first position, the second flow path between the first port 540 and the third port 528 is closed (e.g., fluid flow is not permitted along this flow path). That is, as... Figure 6 As shown, when valve 524 is in the first position, the first flow path (e.g., the irrigation flow path) can be opened, and the second flow path (e.g., the lens cleaning flow path) can be closed. Thus, in Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, when valve 524 is in the first position, fluid 752 can leave the second port 526 via the first flow path; however, when the plunger 730 of valve 524 is in the first position, no fluid leaves the third port 528.

[0101] For example, valve 524 may include a plunger 730 disposed in a portion of passage 724. The plunger 730 may be formed of a single integral component or multiple distinct components. The plunger 730 may be configured to selectively move (e.g., axially along passage 724) to open or close a flow path (e.g., to selectively open or close a second flow path). For example, the plunger 730 may be a piston or double-piston shaped component configured to have multiple seals to allow the plunger 730 to selectively open or close the flow path depending on its position. In some embodiments, the plunger 730 may be a double-piston shaped plunger having a first seal 734 at or relatively close to a first end 731 of the double piston, and a second seal 736 at or relatively close to a second end 732 opposite to or relatively close to the first end 731 of the double piston. The first seal 734 can be configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the valve body 527 near the first end 731 of the plunger 730 when the plunger is in a first position and when the plunger is in a second position. In some embodiments, the second seal 736 can be positioned along the interface between the second end 732 (e.g., the bottom portion) of the plunger 730 and the valve body 527 adjacent to the second end 732 of the plunger 730, such as... Figure 6As shown. The second seal 736 can be configured to prevent pressurized gas (e.g., air and / or CO2) from flowing back into the container through the first port 540 along a second fluid path when the plunger 730 is in the first position. Seals 734, 736 may include gaskets, O-rings, compressible elastomer members, etc. For example, in some embodiments, the first and second seals may each include a corresponding scraper seal or a corresponding bead seal, among other possibilities. In some embodiments, the seals may be overmolded seals formed on or in conjunction with the formation of the plunger 730, thereby forming an integral plunger including these seals (e.g., overmolded seals). In some embodiments, the plunger 730 may be configured as a dual-piston plunger having a central portion 726 whose diameter (e.g., extending in the same direction as axis 729) is smaller than a first diameter at the first seal 743 of the dual-piston plunger and smaller than a second diameter at the second seal of the dual-piston plunger, such as Figure 7 As shown. The central portion 726 can extend between the first seal 734 and the second seal 736. Therefore, the first seal 734 can be spaced apart from the second seal 736 by a certain distance, such as... Figure 7 As shown. Thus, when the plunger 730 is in the second position, the dual-piston plunger can selectively allow fluid flow along both the first and second flow paths extending through or through the central portion 726 of the dual-piston plunger, such as Figure 8 As shown.

[0102] Valve 524 may include a biasing mechanism 738. The biasing mechanism 738 (such as, but not limited to, a spring) may be positioned along passage 724 to bias plunger 730 to a first position, such as... Figure 6 As shown. For example, the biasing mechanism can be positioned around the biasing retaining member 739 between the second end 732 (e.g., the bottom (innermost) portion) of the plunger 730 and the bottom (innermost) portion of the passage 724.

[0103] The plunger 730 may include a first end 731 that extends a distance outside the valve body 527 and forms a lens cleaning button 525. In some embodiments, the plunger 730 may be configured to move from a first position (e.g., as indicated by element 850) in response to actuation of the lens cleaning button 525 (e.g., as indicated by element 850). Figure 6 (as shown) Move to the second position (e.g., as shown) Figure 7 (As shown). When the plunger 730 is in the second position, both the first and second flow paths can be opened. This allows fluid to be supplied to both the rinsing circuit and the lens cleaning circuit simultaneously. For example, Figure 8A schematic cross-section of the illustrative valve 524 in its second position is depicted. (See diagram.) Figure 8 As shown, when the plunger 730 is in the second position, simultaneously, fluid 752 (e.g., fluid for the irrigation circuit) can exit the second port 526, and fluid 754 (e.g., fluid for the lens cleaning circuit) can exit the third port 528. It is conceivable that, for example, simultaneously supplying fluid to both the irrigation circuit and the lens cleaning circuit could enhance the irrigation and / or lens cleaning capabilities of the endoscope compared to other methods that alternatively supply fluid to either the irrigation circuit or the lens cleaning circuit.

[0104] In some embodiments, the plunger 730 may be configured to move from a second position to a first position in response to the release of the lens cleaning button 525. For example, the biasing mechanism 738 may bias the plunger 730 from the second position to a first portion in response to the release of the lens cleaning button 525.

[0105] In some embodiments, the first port 540 may be located on a first side of the valve body 527. In some embodiments, the second port 526 and the third port 528 may be located on a second side of the valve body 527. For example, the first port 540 may be located on the first side of the valve body 527, and each of the second port 526 and the third port 528 may be located on a second side of the valve body 527 opposite to the first side of the valve body 527. In some embodiments, the second port 526 or the third port 528 may be connected to a cavity of a lens cleaning line (e.g., lens cleaning lines 536, 538). In some embodiments, the other of the second port 526 or the third port 528 may be connected to a cavity of a rinsing supply line (e.g., rinsing supply line 570).

[0106] In some embodiments, the first port 540 and one of the second port 526 or the third port 528 may be located together along a common axis. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the first port 540 and the second port 526 can be co-located along a common axis 729. The common axis 729 can extend along a flow path (e.g., a first flow path). Having one of the first port 540, and the second port 526 or the third port 528 extend along the common axis 729 (e.g., along a flow path co-extending with the common axis 729) can facilitate the easy delivery of fluid 752 (e.g., irrigation fluid) to the endoscope via valve 524. In this embodiment, another port (e.g., the third port 528) can be located off-axis 729. Having the other port off-axis or outside the common axis can facilitate several aspects of this document, such as facilitating the selective flow of fluid (e.g., lens cleaning fluid) to the endoscope via a flow path (e.g., a second flow path). Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, when the plunger is in the first position, the common axis 729 can extend along a path outside the plunger 730 (e.g., not extending through the plunger). However, other configurations, such as those described herein, are also possible.

[0107] For example, Figure 9 A schematic cross-section of the illustrative valve 924 in the first position is depicted. Figure 9 The valve 924 shown is similar to Figure 7 The valve 524 shown in the figure has the following modification: when the plunger 730 is in the first position, the first port 540 and the second port 526 are positioned together along a common axis 929, which extends through a portion of the plunger 730, as shown in the figure. Figure 9 As illustrated herein. In this embodiment, another port (e.g., a third port 528) may be positioned off-axis 929. Positioning another port off-axis or outside the common axis can facilitate several aspects of this document, such as facilitating the selective flow of fluid (e.g., lens cleaning fluid) to the endoscope via a flow path (e.g., a second flow path).

[0108] Figure 10 A schematic cross-section of the illustrative valve in its second position is depicted. Figure 10 The valve 924 shown is similar to Figure 8 The valve 524 is modified as follows: when the plunger 730 is in the first position, the first port 540 and the second port 526 are positioned together along a common axis 929, which extends through a portion of the plunger 730, as shown in the figure. Figure 9 As shown in the image. Figure 10 As shown, when plunger 730 is in the second position, simultaneously, fluid 752 (e.g., fluid for the irrigation circuit) can exit the second port 526, and fluid 754 (e.g., fluid for the lens cleaning circuit) can exit the third port 528. It is conceivable that, for example, simultaneously supplying fluid to both the irrigation and lens cleaning circuits can enhance the irrigation and / or lens cleaning capabilities of the endoscope compared to other methods that alternatively supply fluid to either the irrigation or lens cleaning circuits. Although the second port 526 and the third port 528 are in different positions within valve 924 than within valve 524, it should be understood that... Figures 9 to 10 The second port 526 and the third port 528 in the configuration can function in a similar way, for example, regarding Figures 5 to 8 As described. For example, Figures 9 to 10The second port 526 can be configured to supply fluid 752 (e.g., flushing fluid) to a cavity of the flushing supply line, such as the cavity of the flushing supply line 570 and / or the cavity of the second fluid supply line 542, when the valve 924 is in the first position and when the valve 924 is in the second position, as per [reference to...]. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As described. Figure 10 As shown, when the plunger 730 is in the second position, simultaneously, fluid 752 (e.g., fluid for the irrigation circuit) can exit the second port 526, and fluid 754 (e.g., fluid for the lens cleaning circuit) can exit the third port 528.

[0109] As will be understood, the lengths of the irrigation tubing, lens cleaning tubing, gas supply tubing, and alternative gas supply tubing can have any suitable dimensions (e.g., diameter). Additionally, the tubing dimensions (e.g., diameter) can vary depending on the application. In one non-limiting embodiment, the irrigation supply tubing can have an inner diameter of approximately 6.5 mm and an outer diameter of 9.7 mm. The lens cleaning supply tubing can have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm. The gas supply tubing can have an inner diameter of approximately 2 mm and an outer diameter of 3.5 mm. The alternative gas supply tubing can have an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm.

[0110] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed apparatus without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Other embodiments of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of this specification and practice of the invention. This specification and examples are intended to be considered merely exemplary, wherein the true scope and spirit of the invention are indicated by the appended claims.

[0111] All apparatuses and methods discussed herein are examples of apparatuses and / or methods implemented according to one or more principles of this disclosure. These examples are not the only ways to implement these principles, but are merely examples. Therefore, references to elements or structures or features in the accompanying drawings should be understood as references to examples of embodiments of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting this disclosure to the specific elements, structures, or features shown. Other examples of ways of implementing the disclosed principles will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure.

[0112] The following will be understood in the foregoing description and appended claims. As used herein, the phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and / or” are open-ended expressions with both conjunction and disjunction functions. As used herein, the term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity. Thus, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more,” and “at least one” are used interchangeably herein. All references to directions (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.) are used only for identification purposes to aid the reader’s understanding of this disclosure and / or to distinguish areas of associated elements from one another, and do not limit the associated elements, particularly with respect to the location, orientation, or purpose of this disclosure. References to connections (e.g., attachment, link, connection, and linkage, etc.) should be understood broadly and may include intermediate members between a series of elements and relative movement between elements, unless otherwise indicated. Therefore, the connection mentioned does not necessarily imply that the two elements are directly connected and have a fixed relationship with each other. The identifiers of the references (e.g., first-level, second-level, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to suggest importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another.

[0113] The foregoing discussion has been presented for illustrative and descriptive purposes and is not intended to limit this disclosure to the one or more forms disclosed herein. It should be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of this disclosure. In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the principles of this disclosure, without departing from its concept, spirit, scope, or characteristics, can be implemented in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and using other elements, materials, and components. For example, for the purpose of simplification, various features of this disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations. However, it should be understood that various features of certain aspects, embodiments, or configurations of this disclosure can be combined to form alternative aspects, embodiments, or configurations. Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure can be used with structures, arrangements, proportions, materials, components, etc., particularly adapted to specific environments and operational requirements and used in the practice of this disclosure, without departing from the principles of this disclosure. For example, an element shown as integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts, or an element shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed; the operation of the element may be reversed or otherwise varied; the size or dimensions of the element may vary; and features and components of various embodiments may be selectively combined. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects, and the scope of the claimed invention is indicated by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description.

[0114] The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference into the detailed description, wherein each claim is an independent embodiment of this disclosure. In the claims, the term "comprising / including" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although listed separately, multiple means, elements, or method steps may be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these features may be advantageously combined, and inclusion in different claims does not mean that such combinations of features are not feasible and / or advantageous. Furthermore, the singular reference does not exclude the plural. The terms "a," "an," "first," "second," etc., do not exclude the plural. Reference numerals in the claims are provided as illustrative examples only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

1. A valve for fluidly connecting a cavity in an endoscope to a fluid reservoir, the valve include: Valve body, the valve body defining: A first port, configured to receive fluid from a container; The second port is configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a first flow path; A third port, which is configured to be in fluid communication with the first port via a second flow path; as well as A pathway extending between the first port, the second port, and the third port; A plunger configured to move between the following positions in the passage: In the first position, the first flow path is open and the second flow path is closed; as well as In the second position, both the first flow path and the second flow path are open. as well as A biasing mechanism configured to bias the plunger to the first position.

2. The valve as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first port includes a spike port adapter configured to be inserted into the port of the container.

3. The valve as described in any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The first end of the plunger extends a certain distance outside the valve body and forms a lens cleaning button.

4. The valve as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The plunger is configured to move from the first position to the second position in response to actuation of the lens cleaning button.

5. The valve as claimed in claim 4, wherein, The plunger is configured to move from the second position to the first position in response to the release of the lens cleaning button.

6. The valve as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The biasing mechanism is a spring.

7. The valve as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The container is a flexible bag.

8. The valve as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The first port and the second port or the third port are located together along a common axis.

9. The valve as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The first port is located on a first side of the valve body, and the second port and the third port are located on a second side of the valve body.

10. The valve as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The first side is opposite to the second side.

11. The valve according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The second port or the third port is connected to the cavity of the lens cleaning pipeline.

12. The valve of claim 11, wherein, The second port or another of the third ports is connected to the cavity of the irrigation supply line.

13. The valve according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising: A first seal is positioned along the interface between the top portion of the plunger and the valve body; as well as A second seal is positioned along the interface between the bottom portion of the plunger and the valve body.

14. The valve as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The second seal is configured to prevent pressurized gas from flowing back into the container through the first port along the second flow path when the plunger is in the first position.

15. The valve as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The first port includes a spiked port adapter configured to be directly inserted into the port of the container.

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