Vacuum system for intraluminal, intracavitary, intracorporeal, endoscopic vacuum therapy

Abstract

Vacuum system for aspiration of body fluids, wound secretions, gases from body cavities, hollow organs, tissue abscesses, intestinal lumens, for temporary endoscopic closure of intestinal lumens via both natural and artificial body orifices, as well as external wounds, for use on both human and animal bodies, the system comprising: a vacuum pumping unit, in particular a vacuum pump (1); a fluid collecting element (4); a fluid communication element (3); a vacuum probe unit (6); wherein the vacuum pump unit is fluid-conducting through the fluid communication element (3), in particular a drainage hose which is at least partially arranged in or on the fluid collecting element (4) and is connected to the fluid collecting element (4) and the vacuum measuring probe unit (6) is permanently or temporarily connected to the fluid collecting element (4) and / or the fluid communication element (3) and / or the vacuum pump unit for measuring a vacuum, characterized by the fact that the vacuum measuring probe unit (6) has a vacuum measuring sensor (13) at its distal end, which is located in the fluid collecting element (4), or the The vacuum probe unit (6) was introduced into the fluid communication element as a wire-shaped vacuum probe up to the fluid collecting element.

Description

[0001] Conventional vacuum sponge therapy (low-pressure wound therapy) is used to treat external wounds. An open-pore polyurethane sponge or other fluid-collecting agent is inserted into the wound, sealed with a film, and then placed under negative pressure. This allows wound cleansing and healing to occur.

[0002] DE 10 2005 015 878 A1 describes a therapeutic device for promoting the healing of a wound, comprising a cover around the wound to form a substantially airtight seal over the wound, wherein a pad permeable to liquids is preferably arranged between the wound and the cover, a drainage line connecting the cover to a suction pump so that suction can be applied to the wound in order to draw off the liquids from there, and a connector for connecting the cover to the drainage line, wherein the connector has a passage for connecting the proximal end of the drainage line to the wound, with which an even firmer connection between the cover and the drainage line is ensured, which nevertheless has sufficient elasticity to adapt to the respective body and / or wound shape.For this purpose, it is proposed that the connector has fastening sections which, starting from an area enclosing the passage, extend into the area near the outer edge of the cover and are separated from one another by recesses.

[0003] US 2007 / 0219497 A1 discloses a negative pressure delivery system for applying negative pressure to a tissue site. The system includes a manifold having a plurality of flow channels. The manifold is configured to be placed adjacent to the tissue site. A first conduit is in fluid communication with the flow channels of the manifold to deliver negative pressure to the flow channels. A second conduit is in fluid communication with the flow channels of the manifold and is operatively connected to a valve. The valve selectively purges the second conduit with ambient air when the valve is positioned in an open position, and a controller is operatively connected to the valve to position the valve in the open position for a selected period of time at a selected interval during delivery of reduced pressure through the first conduit.

[0004] Endoscopic intraluminal, intracavitary, and intracorporeal vacuum therapy is used to treat internal wounds. Its effectiveness was initially demonstrated for suture leaks following rectal surgery, and later also for intestinal leaks in other locations such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.

[0005] In endoscopic vacuum therapy, an open-pore polyurethane sponge connected to a drainage tube is inserted into an internal wound or intestinal lumen using an endoscope. Negative pressure is then applied via the drained drainage tube. The negative pressure, maintained continuously for several days, allows the wound to cleanse, improves circulation, reduces wound edema, and allows the wound to heal secondarily with the formation of granulation tissue. This therapy is advantageous for inflammation caused by a postoperative leak in an anastomotic suture following intestinal surgery. Vacuum therapy is particularly beneficial in the treatment of esophageal injuries. Organs located in the chest, such as the esophagus, are subject to a permanent physiological negative pressure that fluctuates depending on respiration.If there is an injury to the esophagus, the physiological negative pressure directed towards the chest can suck wound, food, saliva secretions and digestive juices into the depth of the wound and lead to severe inflammatory reactions in the form of mediastinitis or pleural empyema.

[0006] There are two treatment options for endoscopic vacuum sponge therapy, which are illustrated using the example of treating esophageal injuries. The open-pore sponge drain is either inserted through the esophageal defect into a wound cavity located behind the defect (option 1: so-called intracavitary vacuum therapy), or open-pore sponge drains can be placed directly in the intestinal lumen at the location of the defect, covering it (option 2: so-called intraluminal vacuum therapy). The sponge drain is placed under negative pressure. With both options, the negative pressure applied to the sponge counteracts the physiological and respiratory-dependent negative pressure within the chest cavity, creating an intraluminal drainage effect of the internal wound toward the intestinal lumen.

[0007] In variant 1, intracavitary vacuum therapy, an extraluminal wound cavity is drained, while at the same time the intestinal defect closes around the inserted drain, thus sealing the defect.

[0008] In variant 2, intraluminal therapy, the vacuum causes the intestinal lumen to collapse and results in therapeutic closure of the intestinal lumen with simultaneous occlusion of the defect and wound drainage.

[0009] A special form of endoscopic vacuum sponge therapy does not aim for complete closure of a cavity, as described above, but rather for maximum secretion drainage. Here, too, the sponge drain is inserted into a hollow organ, such as the duodenum (postpyloric vacuum duodenal drainage), and placed under suction. The drainage effect is dosed so that complete intestinal obstruction is not achieved; rather, the fluid collection agent is placed under sufficient suction to achieve optimal fluid drainage (in the example of a duodenal placement of pancreatic and bile secretions from the intestinal lumen). It is conceivable that this type of application could also be used in other hollow organs or cavities where maximum secretion drainage is desired. For example, the invention also allows for complete, permanent emptying of the stomach.

[0010] The invention opens up numerous innovative treatment options for internal wounds. The therapy-relevant parameters specified in the invention enable effective internal vacuum therapy. This makes endoscopic vacuum therapy possible for internal wounds that, if left untreated, are sometimes associated with high mortality or often require complex surgical treatment.

[0011] The invention relates to a vacuum system according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are described in the subclaims, in the description and in the figures.

[0012] Aspects of the invention relate to a vacuum system consisting of a vacuum pump unit, vacuum drainage unit(s), and negative pressure probe unit(s). The unit meets the specific requirements necessary for the successful implementation of so-called endoscopic intracavitary, intraluminal, and intracorporeal vacuum therapy.

[0013] This is a negative pressure therapy of internal wounds carried out with flexible endoscopes under endoscopic vision and with the help of endoscopic techniques, whereby vacuum drains are inserted into cavities (intracavitary) and intestinal lumina (intraluminal) via natural or artificial body openings intracorporeally into cavities.

[0014] The requirements of a vacuum pump unit for endoscopic vacuum therapy can be specified and defined. They differ in essential parameters from the therapeutic requirements for vacuum therapy of external wounds. The invention is based on these findings.

[0015] The specific therapy requirements for endoscopic vacuum therapy are described below.

[0016] In contrast to vacuum therapy for external wounds, endoscopic intraluminal, intracavitary, and intracorporeal vacuum therapy achieves internal wound sealing only through the mutual deposition of wound and soft tissue around the fluid collection element, which is fluidically connected to the vacuum pump unit via fluid communication elements, after a vacuum is applied. Only through this tissue sealing does the most airtight space possible be created, enabling the permanent creation and maintenance of a vacuum.

[0017] The cavity containing the fluid collection element is sucked dry and collapses over the fluid collection element due to the vacuum. If the fluid collection element is designed to be elastic, it will also collapse due to the vacuum.

[0018] With the help of an electronic vacuum pump, a permanent suction effect is created on the wound, which is thereby closed.

[0019] The fixation of the fluid collection element at the placement site occurs only by suction to the adjacent tissue or intestinal mucosa.

[0020] In contrast to vacuum therapy on external wounds, there is no possibility of visual and palpatory control as to whether vacuum is applied to the fluid collection element, since the fluid collection element is no longer visible below the body surface after placement.

[0021] Therapy will cease or become ineffective if suction is interrupted at the wound. Suction interruption can also occur due to, among other things, blockage, kinking, or collapse of the fluid communication element or the fluid collection element. Therapy will also be ineffective if the vacuum setup and vacuum parameters do not meet specific requirements. Even brief interruptions in the negative pressure can cause the fluid collection element to dislocate.

[0022] Excessively high vacuum can also lead to clogging of the open-pore structure due to tissue suction. With an elastic fluid collection element, this can lead to complete collapse of the fluid communication element, resulting in the loss of suction on the tissue. The suction effect must not cause any injury to the tissue being suctioned.

[0023] In these cases, the wound lacks sufficient drainage.

[0024] During endoscopic vacuum therapy, a permanent vacuum must be maintained at the wound, and if possible, no pressure drop during therapy should occur. If the vacuum drops, the vacuum must be quickly reestablished.

[0025] For example, when placing a sponge drain in the esophagus, a decrease in vacuum can occur due to the physiological act of swallowing, both through the swallowing of saliva, food, air, and gas, as well as intestinal peristalsis. The same applies to the application of vacuum therapy to the small intestine, large intestine, or stomach, or to the entire intestine.

[0026] In contrast to vacuum therapy on external wounds, where sealing is achieved with a film occlusion dressing, the seal in endoscopic vacuum therapy, which only develops due to the vacuum created by the adjacent tissue, is not as stable. The seal, and thus the fixation of the fluid collection device, is achieved exclusively by the fluid collection element being suctioned onto the tissue like a suction cup, and the vacuum is maintained continuously.

[0027] In contrast to vacuum therapy on external wounds, endoscopic vacuum therapy requires: - sufficient and permanent negative pressure - and a rapid build-up of vacuum with a short evacuation time.

[0028] The requirements for a vacuum pump unit for endoscopic vacuum therapy can be further specified as follows: The vacuum applied to the sponge must be high enough to allow the fluid collection element to adhere firmly to the surrounding tissue.

[0029] The vacuum must not be too high so that the open-pore structure of the fluid collection agent can have a drainage effect on the surrounding tissue.

[0030] The suction power of the vacuum pump must be designed so that a defined vacuum can be built up and maintained in a very short time interval or at a high speed.

[0031] The vacuum pump is advantageously equipped with an automatic electronic measuring and control unit, as well as alarms for malfunctions.

[0032] In clinical practice, for example, continuous negative pressures between 100 and 150 mmHg have proven effective in the treatment of esophageal perforations. These correspond to the negative pressures used for external wounds. Initially, after placement, a significantly higher negative pressure is temporarily advantageous to allow the fluid collection device to adhere firmly, preventing it from accidentally dislodging, for example, through an endoscope still inserted into the body.

[0033] If the vacuum pump's suction build-up occurs via a secretion collection container, the speed of the suction build-up is essentially determined by its dead volume together with the pump's suction power (l / min). With the same suction power of the vacuum pump, a faster suction build-up is possible with a smaller secretion collection container than with a larger collection container. Other influencing factors are the size of the wound cavity or intestinal lumen to be excavated, the volume of the fluid collection element, and the volume of the fluid communication element. Once these have been initially excavated and the tissue around the fluid collection element has been sealed, these remaining volumes are of little relevance in practical application. Conversely, it can be stated that with constant lumens to be excavated (fluid communication element, fluid collection element, secretion container), the speed of the suction build-up up to a defined vacuum is controlled by the pump's suction power (l / min).High suction power results in a faster vacuum build-up than lower suction power.

[0034] For endoscopic vacuum therapy, the required suction power and control power of the vacuum pump must be designed so that a defined vacuum, which particularly preferably ranges from -80 mmHg to -200 mmHg, can be built up within at least a few seconds. For example, this means that if the vacuum drops (e.g., due to swallowing air during treatment in the esophagus), it must be rebuilt within a period of 2 seconds. In this case, this means that a vacuum pump must be able to build up a defined vacuum with a frequency of at least 30 vacuum buildups per minute. These conditions must be met particularly preferably for endoscopic vacuum sponge therapy on the upper gastrointestinal tract.

[0035] Once the vacuum has been built up to the defined pressure, this pressure must be monitored, preferably by vacuum measurements, and maintained at a constant level by the pump. A drop in pressure must be registered immediately and restored within a few seconds.

[0036] It is also possible to apply a negative pressure that fluctuates between at least two negative pressures (e.g., between -100 mmHg and -150 mmHg). Fluctuating the negative pressure might even increase the granulation stimulus on the wound. However, there should never be an interruption in suction lasting longer than a few seconds. Continuous, permanent negative pressure has proven effective in clinical practice. invention

[0037] The invention relates to a vacuum system according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are described in the subclaims, in the description and in the figures.

[0038] The invention is based on the finding that in order to successfully carry out endoscopic vacuum therapy, specific requirements must be placed on a vacuum pump unit.

[0039] The individual components of the vacuum pump unit are described below. Vacuum pump unit:

[0040] To create a vacuum for vacuum endoscopy, any pump system capable of generating and maintaining a vacuum between 80 and 500 mmHg within a few seconds is suitable. However, lower or higher vacuum levels are also possible. Positive-displacement pumps, such as blocking vane pumps, rotary vane pumps, trochoid pumps, scroll pumps, piston pumps, screw pumps, rotary piston pumps, roller pumps, and diaphragm pumps, are preferred.

[0041] The pump is preferably equipped with two pumping stages. The vacuum pump is preferably equipped with a pump combination. The vacuum is preferably generated via a pre-vacuum via a pre-pump.

[0042] The vacuum pump unit is equipped with a vacuum-stable secretion collection container, which allows the collection and / or discharge of secretions and gases that are sucked in during the examination. Preferably, the pump is equipped with a vacuum-stable pre-secretion collection container. The pre-vacuum is preferably applied via the pre-secretion collection container. Preferably, the collected secretion can be passed from the pre-secretion collection container to the secretion collection container. Preferably, the pre-secretion collection container and the secretion collection container are connected to each other by a valve.

[0043] Preferably, the pre-secretion collection container and the secretion collection container are connected to each other by a filter. Preferably, the collection containers are interchangeable.

[0044] If the suction build-up is achieved via the dead volume of the secretion collection container, the speed of the suction build-up depends on the volume of the collection container. With a small collection container volume, the suction power of the pump can be designed lower; with a larger volume, the suction power must be correspondingly higher. The pump power and volume of the collection container must therefore be coordinated, or the pump power must be controlled according to the desired evacuation time and the volume of the secretion collection container. If the pump is operated with two pump stages and the vacuum is generated via a pre-vacuum via a pre-secretion container, it is advantageous to have a smaller volume to ensure the shortest possible evacuation time.

[0045] The secretion collection container should preferably have a volume of 100 ml to 1000 ml, but smaller or larger volumes can also be selected. The pre-secretion collection container should preferably have a volume of 50 to 300 ml, but smaller or larger volumes can also be selected.

[0046] The vacuum pump's performance is designed to apply a defined, continuous vacuum to a fluid collection device within a short period of just a few seconds. This negative pressure is preferably maintained constant.

[0047] The evacuation time must be adapted according to the therapy being performed. The evacuation time is to be set using a control unit on the pump. The defined vacuum is particularly preferably generated in an evacuation time of no more than 2 seconds. The defined vacuum is particularly preferably generated in an evacuation time of 2-5 seconds. The defined volume is particularly preferably generated in an evacuation time of 0.5-5 seconds. With constant evacuation volumes at fluid communication elements, fluid collection elements and secretion collection containers, the evacuation time is particularly preferably controlled via the suction power of the vacuum pump. This control preferably takes place automatically via a control unit on the pump. The control unit of the pump preferably also receives the measured values ​​from the vacuum measuring probe. The evacuation time is preferably controlled by controlling the pump power.Preferably, the evacuation time is controlled by the size of the dead volume of the pre-secretion container and / or secretion container.

[0048] The explanation for the requirements of the invention arises from the different pathophysiological conditions at the respective application site. For example, to treat an esophageal leak, a negative pressure between -80 and -150 mmHg with an evacuation time of no more than 2 seconds is advantageous. In the treatment of esophageal injuries, the pathophysiological intrathoracic negative pressure and the pressure fluctuations caused by respiratory movements are directed against the suction effect of the vacuum pump. This physiological negative pressure must be eliminated or counteracted by a very short evacuation time of the vacuum pump in the suction direction of the pump.

[0049] In contrast, in negative pressure treatment after anastomotic insufficiency in the rectum with an anus praeter in front and only slight secretion, a longer evacuation time of 2 to 5 seconds can also be therapeutically successful.

[0050] Particularly preferably, the vacuum pump should be able to build up a defined vacuum in evacuation times even shorter than 2 seconds. Particularly preferably, the vacuum pump should be able to build up a defined vacuum in evacuation times even longer than 5 seconds.

[0051] Particularly preferably, the performance of the pump is matched to the volume of the secretion collection container and the fluid collection element to be excavated such that the defined vacuum is established within an evacuation time of 5 seconds. Preferably, the performance of the pump is designed such that the dead space volume of the secretion collection container and the fluid collection element is excavated within an evacuation time of 5 seconds.

[0052] Particularly preferably, the performance of the pump is matched to the volume of the secretion collection container and the fluid collection element to be excavated such that the defined vacuum is established within an evacuation time of 2 seconds. Preferably, the performance of the pump is designed such that the dead space volume of the secretion collection container and the fluid collection element is excavated within an evacuation time of 2 seconds.

[0053] Particularly preferably, the performance of the pump is matched to the volume of the secretion collection container and the fluid collection element to be excavated such that the defined vacuum is created in an evacuation time of less than 2 seconds. Preferably, the performance of the pump is designed such that the dead space volume of the secretion collection container and the fluid collection element is excavated in an evacuation time of less than 2 seconds.

[0054] In particular, the vacuum pump should have a pumping capacity of 1 l / min to 20 l / min. However, it can also have lower or higher pumping capacities.

[0055] In particular, the vacuum pump is set to a defined vacuum by a preferably electronic control unit and the pump performance is adapted to this.

[0056] Particularly preferably, the evacuation time of the defined vacuum can be regulated by the control unit. Particularly preferably, the pump output is adjusted to the evacuation time.

[0057] The control unit is equipped with alarm functions that automatically monitor and regulate the vacuum level being exceeded and / or undershot, the duration of the evacuation time, and the duration of a vacuum system. If the vacuum drops, for example, due to insufflation of test gas, the vacuum is quickly and continuously restored.

[0058] In endoscopic vacuum sponge therapy, therapeutic negative pressures between -80 and -300 mmHg are preferred. Lower negative pressures can also be used for short periods, especially at the beginning of therapy, but lower and higher pressures can also be used for therapy.

[0059] The pump is preferably operated using switching and control elements on the pump.

[0060] The pump is preferably equipped with an electronic control and measuring unit that measures the negative pressure and automatically regulates it via a control unit. The pump is preferably equipped with an electronic control and measuring unit that automatically regulates the evacuation time via a control unit. The defined negative pressure and evacuation time are controlled via negative pressure measuring elements on the pump and / or via negative pressure measuring elements connected to the fluid collection means and / or the fluid communication element, and are transmitted to the pump's control unit. This data is transmitted, in particular, electronically to a control unit of the pump.

[0061] Particularly preferably, the vacuum pump unit can be used to create a vacuum on a single fluid element and / or multiple fluid elements together or individually. Preferably, vacuum generation on the individual fluid collection units is possible completely independently of one another.

[0062] In particular, the described vacuum pump unit is suitable for generating vacuum in endoscopic intracavity and intraluminal vacuum therapy. It is also preferably used in vacuum sponge therapy on external wounds. Furthermore, it is preferably used in vacuum endoscopy.

[0063] The vacuum unit must be designed as a portable unit so that a patient can move around as freely as possible.

[0064] The pump is designed to be portable. The portable version is powered primarily by a battery. Fluid communication elements and fluid collection elements

[0065] The fluid communication elements are preferably drainage tubes. The fluid communication elements are vacuum-stable, so they do not collapse under vacuum; they are connected to the vacuum pump via vacuum-stable connecting elements. In particular, the fluid communication elements have one or more openings at the distal end so that liquids and gases can be drained away by suction.

[0066] In particular, the fluid communication elements are equipped with double lumens. In particular, the fluid communication elements are equipped with multiple channels. In particular, the fluid communication elements are suitable for flushing and suction. In particular, a wire-shaped negative pressure measuring probe can be temporarily or permanently inserted into a fluid communication element or be structurally connected. In particular, a lateral closable access and / or access provided with a valve can be provided at the proximal end of the fluid collection element, through which, for example, a measuring probe can be inserted or flushing can be performed.

[0067] The fluid collection elements preferably have a diameter of 8 to 21 Char, but thinner or wider diameters are also possible. The fluid collection elements are preferably between 80 and 180 cm long, although shorter or longer lengths can also be used, and the lengths can also be shortened if necessary.

[0068] At the level of the openings of the fluid communication elements, the fluid collection element is secured in a fluid-conducting manner by adhesive, thread, stitching, clamping, or an alternative fastening method. The fluid communication element is inserted over the entire or partial length of the fluid collection element.

[0069] The fluid collection element is preferably cylindrical and equipped with a central channel. The channel is preferably arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the fluid collection element.

[0070] The fluid collection element is preferably cylindrical, in particular circular, and the channel is arranged parallel to the height of the cylindrical fluid collection element. The longitudinal axis of the fluid collection element is preferably the one oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the fluid communication element. Furthermore, it is preferred that the channel is arranged along an axis of symmetry of the fluid collection element. The fluid collection element is preferably tubular, the channel being the inner cavity in the tubular fluid collection element. The channel is preferably suitable for receiving a guide element for endoscopic placement of the fluid collection element. The channel is preferably suitable for receiving the fluid communication element. The fluid collection element can preferably also be equipped with multiple channels. One of the channels can preferably also accommodate a vacuum measuring probe.

[0071] Preferably, the channel of the fluid collection element encompasses the entire circumference of the fluid communication element at the level of the openings of the fluid communication element. Particularly preferably, the fluid communication element is fluidly connected to the fluid collection means through the openings. Preferably, the fluid collection means tapers conically at the proximal end. Preferably, the fluid collection element tapers conically at the distal end.

[0072] Advantageously, a particularly reliable fluid line is achieved between the fluid communication element and the fluid collection means. Particularly preferably, the fluid line extends to the outer boundary of the fluid collection element. The fluid collection element is preferably designed to conduct a gas and / or a liquid from an outer surface of the fluid collection element to the fluid communication element. The fluid collection element is preferably an open-pore polyurethane sponge. The fluid collection element preferably has a pore size of 200 µm to 1000 µm, particularly preferably of 400 µm to 600 µm, but other pore sizes are also possible. The fluid collection means preferably comprises an elastically compressible structure with fluid channels.

[0073] The length and thickness of the fluid collection element can be varied. The fluid collection element is preferably 2 to 10 cm long, but other lengths are also possible. The fluid collection means preferably has an outer diameter of 15 to 30 mm, but other outer diameters are also possible. The fluid collection element for intracavitary therapy preferably has a diameter of 0.5-1.5 cm and a length of 1-4 cm. The fluid collection element for intraluminal therapy preferably has a diameter of 1.5-2.5 cm and a length of 4-10 cm.

[0074] Particularly preferably, the fluid collection element fluidically connected to the fluid communication element should be able to be placed endoscopically, laparoscopically, thoracoscopically, openly surgically, intraluminally, intracavitarily, intracorporally. Vacuum measuring unit

[0075] For direct vacuum measurement on the fluid collection device, vacuum sensors are preferably provided. These sensors are particularly preferably electronically connected to the control unit of a vacuum pump, so that the preset required vacuum values ​​to be generated by the pump can be monitored and regulated. The control unit is equipped with an alarm function. Electronic control signals are transmitted, in particular, to the vacuum pump to regulate the vacuum. Alarms regarding malfunctions can be triggered.

[0076] The control unit determines both the pressure values ​​and the time of pressure application and the duration of the examination. The evacuation time is preferably measured.

[0077] The measuring sensors are preferably wire-shaped. The measuring sensors are preferably designed such that the measuring element rests on the fluid collection means, is located in the fluid collection means, and is located between the fluid collection means and the fluid communication means. The measuring element is preferably designed within the fluid-conducting system.

[0078] Preferably, several measuring elements are available for measurement. If multiple measuring elements are present, they can also take measurements at different locations (pump, secretion container, fluid collection element, fluid communication element).

[0079] Preferably, the sensor is permanently integrated into the pump system.

[0080] Preferably, the measuring sensor is designed to be subsequently insertable, for example, into a fluid communication element.

[0081] The sensor can be applied to both externally visible wounds during vacuum sponge therapy and to intracorporeal wounds that are not visible from the outside in order to measure the vacuum that is actually applied to the wound.

[0082] The measuring sensor can be inserted with the fluid collection element during wound care. The drainage unit can be designed so that the measuring sensor is already integrated into the system from the outset, but it can also be attached to / in the fluid collection element after the fluid collection element has been inserted into the wound. For this purpose, it can be guided in the fluid communication element up to the fluid collection element or the wound, or it can be guided separately to the wound site in a second fluid communication element. It is also possible to equip the fluid communication element with a second lumen for this purpose. It is advantageous if the measuring probe is designed in a wire-like manner so that it can be easily advanced even in a small lumen, like an endoscopic guide stylet.

[0083] The invention can be used particularly advantageously in so-called endoscopic vacuum sponge therapy. Here, the sensor monitors and controls the pump suction directly at the fluid collection element. This prevents therapy from being interrupted, for example, due to a blockage of the fluid collection device or the fluid communication element. This is particularly important in the treatment of esophageal injuries, as otherwise, inflammation of the chest cavity occurs, which requires lengthy treatment and often leads to death.

[0084] The sensor signal can be transmitted either via an electronic wired connection or wirelessly.

[0085] The invention can also be applied for control and use in vacuum endoscopy. Figures

[0086] The invention with preferred embodiments is explained with reference to figures according to structure and handling. Fig. Figure 1 is a representation of the entire vacuum unit with vacuum pump (1), secretion container (2) on the pump, and fluid communication element (3) leading from the vacuum pump to the fluid collection element (4). A vacuum measuring probe (6) is inserted into the fluid communication element via a lateral inlet (5). This probe, via a control unit (7), electronically transmits the measured values ​​for regulation, presetting, and control to the vacuum pump via connecting elements (8). Fig. 2 is a longitudinal section of Fig. 1 of the entire vacuum unit with vacuum pump (1), secretion container (2) on the vacuum pump, and fluid communication element (3), which lead from the vacuum pump to the fluid collection means (4). A vacuum measuring probe (6) is inserted into the fluid communication element via a lateral inlet (5). This probe, via a control unit (7), transmits the measured values ​​for regulation, presetting, and control to the vacuum pump via connecting elements (8). Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a pump with a pre-secretion container (9) for faster suction build-up and a secretion container (2). The pre-secretion container is connected to the secretion container via a filter / valve (1). The control unit (7) for the negative pressure values, time settings, evacuation times, and alarm functions is connected to the pump (1) via connecting elements (8). The fluid collection element (4) is connected to the fluid communication element (3) and is connected to the pump unit. Fig. Figure 4 is a representation of a fluid collection element (4) that is fluidly connected to a fluid communication element (3). A wire-shaped vacuum measuring probe (6) is advanced into the fluid communication element (4) via a lateral inlet and a valve (11). The vacuum measuring probe is connected to a measuring and control unit, which can transmit the information via an electronic connection (8). Fig. 5 is a longitudinal section of Fig. 4. The fluid collection element (4) is connected to the fluid communication element, at the distal end of which fluid-conducting openings (12) for suction are provided. A wire-shaped vacuum measuring probe (6) is inserted into the fluid communication element up to the fluid collection element. The vacuum measuring sensor (13) of the probe is attached to the distal end. The measuring sensor is connected to a measuring and control unit (7), which can transmit the information via an electronic connection (8). Fig. Figure 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of a fluid collection element (4) fluidly connected to two fluid communication elements (3). A wire-shaped vacuum measuring probe (6) is inserted into one of the fluid communication elements and extends to the fluid collection element. A vacuum measuring sensor (13) is attached to its distal end. Another vacuum measuring sensor (13a) is present in the fluid collection means. Fig.Figure 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of a fluid collection element (4) in which a fluid communication element (3) is constructed in a fluid-conducting manner and a wire-shaped vacuum measuring probe (6) resting thereon. The vacuum measuring probe (6) is connected to a measuring and control unit (7) and is equipped at the distal end with a vacuum measuring sensor located in the fluid collection element.

Claims

[1] Vacuum system for suctioning body fluids, wound secretions, gases from body cavities, hollow organs, tissue abscesses, intestinal lumens, for temporary endoscopic closure of intestinal lumens via both natural and artificial body openings, as well as external wounds, for use on both human and animal bodies, the system comprising: a vacuum pump unit, in particular a vacuum pump (1); a fluid collecting element (4); a fluid communication element (3); a vacuum measuring probe unit (6); wherein the vacuum pump unit is fluidly conductive through the fluid communication element (3), in particular a drainage hose which is arranged at least partially in or on the fluid collecting element (4), is connected to the fluid collecting element (4) and the vacuum measuring probe unit (6) is permanently or temporarily connected to the fluid collecting element (4) and / or the fluid communication element (3) and / or the vacuum pump unit for measuring a negative pressure, characterized by , that the vacuum measuring probe unit (6) has at its distal end a vacuum measuring sensor (13) which lies in the fluid collecting element (4), or the Vacuum measuring probe unit (6) was introduced into the fluid communication element as a wire-shaped vacuum measuring probe up to the fluid collecting element. [2] Vacuum system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum pump can generate a constant continuous defined negative pressure between -10 and -500 mmHg, which can be adjusted by means of a control unit, wherein all technical possibilities of a vacuum pump suitable for generating negative pressure are to be included. [3] Vacuum system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum pump can generate a constant defined evacuation time between 0.5 and 5 seconds, which can be adjusted by a control unit. [4] Vacuum system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump is provided with a vacuum-stable secretion collecting container to which the fluid collecting element (4) is connected, via which the vacuum build-up is passed on to the fluid collecting element (4) via vacuum-stable fluid communication elements (3), in particular drainage tubes, and in which secretions can be collected and gases can be passed on. [5] Vacuum system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum is generated via a pump combination and / or a pre-vacuum. [6] Vacuum system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid collecting element (4) comprises a sponge, in particular an open-pore polyurethane sponge. [7] Vacuum system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum system is designed to transmit electronic control signals for regulating the negative pressure to a control unit of the vacuum unit with the vacuum sensor and to trigger alarms regarding a malfunction. [8] Vacuum system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring sensor of the negative pressure measuring unit is constructed in a wire-shaped manner and is introduced into the fluid collecting element (4) via the fluid communication element (3) for measuring the negative pressure. [9] Vacuum system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid collection element (4) fluidically connected to the fluid communication element (3) can be placed endoscopically, laparoscopically, thoracoscopically, openly surgically, intraluminally, intracavitarily, intracorporally.

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