Systems and methods for arthroscopic visualization - Patents.com

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to arthroscopic visualization systems and methods. The visualization system can include a camera with a fluid inflow path, a proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inflow path. The system can also include a cannula having a lumen, the lumen configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inflow path at a distal end of the camera. Additionally, the system can also include a scope, the scope configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted within the lumen of the cannula.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 180,027, filed April 26, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Technical Field TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates generally to visualization systems and methods, and more specifically to arthroscopic systems and methods. [Background technology]

[0003] Typical endoscopic camera systems require two hands to hold the camera and adjust the direction of view ("DOV") by rotating the scope. In addition, these typical endoscopic camera systems have fiber optic light guides attached to the proximal end of the scope near the user's hands. This clutters the space where the user is manipulating the camera and scope. Furthermore, the weight and stiffness of the light guide hanging from the proximal end of the scope can cause undesired rotation of the scope relative to the camera head, thereby changing the user's DOV.

[0004] In addition to the light guide, typical endoscopic camera systems also utilize a cannula design that has a stopcock or other method for connecting a tube to the proximal end of the cannula / scope connection. Like the light guide, this tube finds space and adds additional weight / rigidity to the area where the user is manipulating the camera and scope. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one embodiment, the visualization system may include a minimally invasive camera, cannula, and scope system. In some embodiments, the visualization systems disclosed herein may allow the user to operate the camera with one hand via ergonomic features built into the camera / scope / cannula to provide the ability to rotate the scope direction of view ("DOV") with one hand while holding the camera. In addition, the visualization systems disclosed herein may be smaller and lighter than their existing counterparts, may reduce or eliminate cables or tubes from the manipulation zone, allowing for greater maneuverability, and may allow for a shorter working distance between the hand and the distal tip of the scope, providing the user with more control.

[0006] In some embodiments, the visualization system disclosed herein may have lighting integrated into the camera and / or scope assembly. This may eliminate the need for fiber optic light guides by incorporating lighting into the camera, cannula, or scope while maintaining the ability to remove and rotate the scope any number of times relative to the camera. In some embodiments, the visualization system may provide wireless power to the scope. This may facilitate a scope integrated electrically powered light source, allowing the user of other power consuming devices within the scope. In some embodiments, the visualization system may include a fluid management system that reroutes fluid inflow and / or outflow so that fluid inlet / outlet tubes can be joined to the camera assembly alongside the data cable at the proximal end of the camera. In some embodiments, the visualization system may include a cannula with multiple lumens. Additionally, the diameter of the cannula may decrease / taper in size from the proximal end to the distal end.

[0007] According to some aspects, the visualization system may include optics for transmitting light from the target to an image sensor, an image sensor and electrical pathways for transmitting the image to a processing unit, an illumination source for illuminating the target, a fluid management system for filling the target area with fluid, a cannula for delivering fluid to the target, and / or a cannula for removing fluid from the target. These elements may be incorporated into the visualization system to improve the ergonomic experience of a user interacting with the system.

[0008] According to one embodiment, a visualization system for a medical procedure includes a camera having a fluid inflow path, where a proximal end of the camera is configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inflow path, a cannula having a lumen, where the lumen is configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inflow path at a distal end of the camera, and a scope, where the scope is configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera, where a portion of the scope is configured to be inserted into the lumen of the cannula.

[0009] According to one aspect, a visualization system for a medical procedure includes: a camera having a fluid inflow path and a fluid outflow path, where a proximal end of the camera is configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inflow path and the fluid outflow path to a fluid waste; a cannula having first and second lumens, where the first lumen is configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inflow path at a distal end of the camera and the second lumen is configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid outflow path at the distal end of the camera; and a scope, where the scope is configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera and where a portion of the scope is configured to be inserted into the first and second lumens of the cannula.

[0010] According to one aspect, a visualization system for a medical procedure includes: a camera having a fluid inflow path, a proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inflow path; a cannula having a lumen, the lumen configured to be fluidly connected and wirelessly electrically connected to the fluid inflow path at a distal end of the camera; and a scope, the scope configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted into the lumen of the cannula.

[0011] According to one aspect, a visualization system for a medical procedure includes: a camera having a fluid inflow path, a proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inflow path; a cannula having a lumen, the lumen configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inflow path at a distal end of the camera, the cannula tapering in a decreasing diameter from the proximal end of the cannula to the distal end of the cannula; and a scope, the scope configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted into the lumen of the cannula.

[0012] According to one aspect, a visualization system for a medical procedure includes: a camera with a fluid inflow path, the proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inflow path; a cannula with a lumen and an integrated rotation guide, the lumen configured to be fluidly and wirelessly electrically connected to the fluid inflow path at a distal end of the camera; and a scope configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted into the lumen of the cannula, the rotation guide disposed at the proximal end of the cannula and configured to be positioned just distal to the distal end of the camera when the scope and cannula are connected to the camera.

[0013] Optionally, the scope includes a light source.

[0014] Optionally, the camera is equipped with a light source.

[0015] Optionally, the scope is configured to be optically coupled to a camera.

[0016] Optionally, the cannula includes a fluid outlet at a distal end of the cannula that is fluidly connected to the lumen.

[0017] Optionally, the camera includes a fluid outflow path, the proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect the fluid outflow path to a fluid waste.

[0018] Optionally, the cannula includes a second lumen that may be configured to be fluidly connected to a fluid outflow pathway at a distal end of the camera.

[0019] Optionally, the cannula includes a non-permeable barrier separating the lumen from the second lumen.

[0020] Optionally, the lumen and the second lumen are parallel.

[0021] Optionally, the lumen and the second lumen are non-coaxial multi-lumen.

[0022] Optionally, the cannula includes a fluid inlet between the proximal and distal ends of the cannula that is fluidly connected to the second lumen.

[0023] Optionally, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second lumen and the lumen decreases from the proximal end of the cannula to the distal end of the cannula.

[0024] Optionally, the visualization system may include a fluid manifold configured to be connected to the camera and the cannula, the fluid manifold fluidly connecting a fluid inflow path of the camera to the lumen and a fluid outflow path to a second lumen.

[0025] Optionally, the cannula is configured to be rotatably connected to the fluid manifold.

[0026] Optionally, the camera, scope and cannula are configured to be removably connected to one another.

[0027] Optionally, the scope and cannula are configured to be rotatably connected to a distal end of the camera.

[0028] Optionally, the scope and cannula are configured to rotate independently of the camera.

[0029] Optionally, the cannula includes a cannula rotation guide on the proximal end of the cannula configured to rotate the cannula relative to the camera.

[0030] Optionally, the cannula rotation guide is configured to rotate the cannula and scope when a portion of the scope is inserted within the lumen of the cannula.

[0031] Optionally, the cannula rotation guide is configured to be positioned just distal to the camera when the scope and cannula are connected to the camera.

[0032] Optionally, the diameter of the cannula tapers narrower from the proximal end of the cannula towards the distal end of the cannula.

[0033] Optionally, the distal end of the cannula includes a rounded tip.

[0034] Optionally, a portion of the rounded tip is configured to wrap around a portion of the distal end of the scope when the scope is partially inserted within the lumen of the cannula.

[0035] Optionally, a portion of the rounded tip is configured to wrap around a portion of the distal end of the scope without impairing or blocking illumination.

[0036] Optionally, the proximal end of the camera is configured to be communicatively coupled to a data cable and / or to be wirelessly communicatively coupled to a computer.

[0037] Optionally, the proximal end of the camera is configured to be electrically coupled to a power cable and / or to be wirelessly electrically coupled to a power source.

[0038] Optionally, the scope and camera are configured to be wirelessly electrically coupled to one another.

[0039] Optionally, the scope and camera are configured to be electrically coupled to each other wirelessly via inductive coupling.

[0040] It will be understood that any of the variations, aspects, features and options described with respect to the system apply equally to the method, and vice versa. It will also be apparent that any one or more of the variations, aspects, features and options described above may be combined.

[0041] Further advantages will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. The aspects and descriptions herein are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0042] All publications, including patent documents, scientific articles, and databases, referenced in this application are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication was individually incorporated by reference. To the extent that the definitions set forth herein are contrary to or otherwise inconsistent with the definitions set forth in the patents, applications, published applications, and other publications incorporated herein by reference, the definitions set forth herein take precedence over the definitions incorporated herein by reference. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0043] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0044] [Figure 1A] 1 is an image of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0045] [Figure 1B] 1 is an image of an exemplary existing visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0046] [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates an example image of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0047] [Diagram 3] 10A-10C illustrate examples of various lengths of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0048] [Figure 4] 1 illustrates an example of a rotation guide incorporated into a cannula for a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0049] [Diagram 5] An example of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein is described.

[0050] [Figure 6] 1 illustrates an example cross-section of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0051] [Figure 7A] 1 illustrates an example of an exploded rear view of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0052] [Figure 7B] 1 illustrates an example of an exploded front view of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0053] [Figure 8] 1 illustrates an example of a visualization system in which the scope handle is hidden and the fluid manifold is made transparent according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0054] [Figure 9] 1 illustrates an example cross-section of a visualization system showing wireless power transfer between a camera and a scope according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0055] [Figure 10] 1 illustrates another example cross-section of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0056] [Figure 11] 1 illustrates an example of an exploded cross-section of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0057] [Figure 12] 1 illustrates an example cross-section of a distal end of a camera of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0058] [Figure 13] 1 illustrates another example cross-section of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0059] [Figure 14A] 10A-10C illustrate examples of fluid and data connections to a camera of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0060] [Figure 14B] 1 illustrates an example of a fluid system connected to a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0061] [Figure 15] 1 illustrates example cross sections of a fluid manifold, a cannula, and a scope of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0062] [Figure 16A] 1 illustrates an example of a cannula of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0063] [Figure 16B] 1 illustrates an example of a cannula of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0064] [Figure 16C] 1 illustrates another example of a cannula of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0065] [Figure 17A] 1 illustrates an example of a fluid manifold, a cannula, and a scope of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0066] [Figure 17B] 17B illustrates an example cross-section of the visualization system of FIG. 17A according to certain embodiments disclosed herein.

[0067] [Figure 18] 1 illustrates example cross-sections of the distal end of a cannula and scope of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0068] [Figure 19A] 1 illustrates cross sections of fluid inflow and outflow of a cannula of a visualization system according to certain embodiments disclosed herein.

[0069] [Figure 19B] 1 illustrates an example cross-section of a cannula of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0070] [Figure 20A] 1 illustrates an example cross section showing an anti-fogging concept during flow of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0071] [Figure 20B] 1 illustrates an example cross section showing an anti-fogging concept with inflow of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0072] [Figure 21] 1 illustrates an example of a light source configured to be connected to a scope according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0073] [Figure 22A] 1 illustrates an example of a light source connected to a scope according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0074] [Figure 22B] 1 illustrates another example view of a light source connected to a scope according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0075] [Figure 22C] 1 illustrates a third diagram example of a light source connected to a scope according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0076] In the drawings, like reference numbers correspond to like elements unless otherwise stated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077] Reference is made below in detail to implementations and embodiments of various aspects and variations of the systems and methods described herein. Although several example variations of the systems and methods are described herein, other variations of the systems and methods may include aspects of the systems and methods described herein combined in any suitable manner having all or some combination of the described aspects.

[0078] Described herein are ergonomic visualization systems and methods. According to some embodiments, the visualization systems described herein may achieve (1) one-handed operation, (2) lighting integrated into the camera assembly, (3) wireless power within the scope, (4) better fluid management, and / or (5) better cannula.

[0079] In existing endoscopic camera systems, the connection between the scope and the camera is stiff, which means that it may take a significant effort from the user to rotate the scope to manipulate the DOV. This may make it even more difficult for the user to manipulate the DOV with one hand. The reason for the stiff connection is that the torque required to rotate the scope relative to the camera must be greater than the torque required to spin the stopcock relative to the rest of the cannula to prevent a dangling fluid tube from inadvertently changing the user's DOV. With regard to achieving one-handed operation, an ergonomic visualization system can unclutter the surgeon's control and working zones, it can enable the ability to rotate the DOV with one hand, it can shorten the overall visualization system to improve tip control, and / or it can reduce the weight hanging from the visualization system.

[0080] With regard to achieving lighting integrated into the camera assembly, the visualization system may reduce the amount of parts required to operate, may reduce cost of goods sold (COGS), may potentially reduce coupling losses by eliminating light guide joints, and / or may eliminate fragile light guides resulting in a more durable product. With regard to achieving wireless power within the scope, the visualization system may allow lighting integrated into the camera assembly, the illumination source may be within the scope, and / or the system may allow flexibility for the introduction of other features that require electricity / power within the scope (e.g., scope tip heating, ultrasonic tip cleaning, pressure sensing, use, and / or other data stored within the scope). With regard to improving fluid management, the visualization system may reduce clutter, improve ergonomics, allow inflow and / or outflow without adding tubing to the working zone, and / or contribute to a shorter overall length of the visualization system. With regard to improving the cannula, the visualization system may reduce the diameter of the inflow and / or outflow lumens while minimizing the change in pressure head loss through the cannula, and / or may reduce the possibility of causing tissue damage by incorporating a rounded tip.

[0081] 1-20 illustrate examples of various aspects of a visualization system according to some embodiments disclosed herein. The visualization system may be used in arthroscopic procedures. In some embodiments, the visualization system may be used in ear, nose and throat ("ENT"), urology, gynecology, or various other medical applications.

[0082] The visualization system may include a camera 1, a scope 2, and / or a cannula 3. The camera, scope, and cannula may be configured to be removably connected to one another such that the camera, scope, and cannula may all be connected and disconnected to one another as described herein. The cannula may include at least one lumen, and a portion of the scope may be configured to be inserted into the at least one lumen. The scope and / or cannula may be configured to be connected to a distal end of the camera. Additionally, the scope and / or cannula may be configured to be rotatably connected to the distal end of the camera. In this manner, the scope and / or cannula may rotate independently of the camera. In some embodiments, the scope may be configured to be optically connected to the camera.

[0083] The camera may include a fluid inflow path 4. The fluid inflow path may be a lumen inside the camera. The proximal end 1a of the camera may be configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir 6 (and corresponding tubing) to the fluid inflow path through a fluid inlet 7c. The proximal end of the camera may be configured to be communicatively coupled to a data cable or wirelessly communicatively coupled to a computer. In this manner, the fluid reservoir (and corresponding tubing) may be fluidly connected to the proximal end of the camera alongside the camera's data and / or power cables. The fluid reservoir may contain water, saline, or various other fluids used in medical procedures. The proximal end of the camera may be configured to be electrically coupled to a power cable or wirelessly electrically coupled to a power source.

[0084] The camera may include a fluid outflow path 5. The fluid outflow path may be a lumen inside the camera. The proximal end of the camera may be configured to fluidly connect a fluid waste (and corresponding tubing) to the fluid outflow path through fluid outlet 7d. In this manner, the fluid waste (and corresponding tubing) may be fluidly connected to the proximal end of the camera alongside the camera data and / or power cables. In a standard visualization system such as shown in FIG. 1B and in fluid cannula connection 25 in FIG. 2, mechanisms for connecting fluid inflow and / or outflow to the cannula may add length to the cannula, contributing to making the overall visualization system longer. Additionally, these fluid inflow and / or outflow connections towards or after the distal end of the camera may be a hindrance to the clinician in use, such that two hands are required to operate the visualization system.

[0085] In contrast, the visualization system disclosed herein is shorter and neater (FIG. 1A) when compared to the standard visualization system (FIG. 1B). Additionally, the fluid cannula connection 25 in FIG. 2 shows fluid inflow and outflow stopcocks located at the proximal end of the cannula, which is in front of the surgeon's hand when holding the camera. Connecting the fluid tubes and stopcocks to the cannula toward the distal end of the camera can be problematic because dangling tubes / cables can cause unwanted rotation of the scope. Additionally, these fluid tubes / cables add to a large portion of the clinician's working zone. Additionally, fluid tubes / cables toward the front of the visualization system can unbalance the weight of the visualization system, creating more challenges for the clinician to operate the visualization system.

[0086] A typical inflow-only (one-way) endoscopic camera system may include a pump, a surgical tube, a cannula, and a scope. Fluid may flow from the pump through a tube that is usually connected to a stopcock on the cannula. A typical cannula may be a hollow cylindrical section that fits over the shank of the scope, such as a scabbard, with a stopcock at its proximal end. The fit between the cannula and the scope may leave a small gap between the outer diameter of the scope and the inner diameter of the cannula, where fluid entering from the stopcock can flow to the tip of the scope. A typical outflow-inflow (bidirectional) endoscopic camera system may be similar to the one-way system described above, except that the cannula includes two coaxial tubes, one fitting inside the other, with two separate fluid paths leading from the distal end to two stopcocks at the proximal end of the cannula.

[0087] In contrast, the visualization system disclosed herein may eliminate fluid management tubes from the working zone (i.e., in front of the distal end of the camera). The fluid inflow and outflow paths may be two separate lumens that pass through the camera toward the distal end of the camera and fluidly connect with the cannula. In this way, any fluid entering the camera may enter the proximal end of the camera, and any fluid exiting the camera may exit the proximal end of the camera. By connecting the fluid tubes 7 (e.g., inflow tube 7a and / or outflow tube 7b) to the proximal end of the camera at the fluid inlet 7c, dangling cables / tubes may be eliminated from the scope and may no longer cause inadvertent rotation of the scope while the clinician is using the visualization system. In addition, fluid inflow and / or outflow may be controlled at the camera head, rather than in front of the distal end of the camera. Control of fluids in and / or out of the system may be controlled, for example, by members 7f (e.g., stopcocks).

[0088] As described above, the visualization system may include a cannula having at least one lumen. A portion of the scope may be configured to be inserted into the at least one lumen of the cannula. The at least one lumen of the cannula may be configured to be fluidly connected to a fluid inflow path of the camera at the distal end of the camera. In this example, the cannula may include a fluid outlet 8d at the distal end 3b of the cannula. The fluid outlet may be fluidly connected to the at least one lumen (e.g., inflow lumen 8a). The fluid outlet of the cannula may be configured to release a fluid at the distal end of the scope such that it may be used to flush the distal end of the scope.

[0089] Optionally, the cannula may include a second lumen, which may be configured to be fluidly connected to the outflow path of the camera at the distal end of the camera. For example, FIG. 16A shows a cannula 3 having an inflow lumen 8a and an outflow lumen 8b. The cannula may include a fluid inlet 8c between the proximal end 3a and the distal end 3b. The fluid inlet of the cannula may be fluidly connected to the outflow lumen. The cannula may include two or more fluid inlets fluidly connected to the outflow lumen. The fluid inlets may be used to remove waste fluids during use of the visualization system. A portion of the scope may be configured to be inserted into the outflow lumen or the inflow lumen, as shown in FIG. 16B and FIG. 16C. An impermeable barrier 9 may separate the first lumen from the second lumen.

[0090] Existing inflow and outflow (bidirectional) cannulas are significantly thicker in diameter than their inflow only (unidirectional) counterparts. Existing inflow and outflow cannulas use a coaxial lumen layout that inefficiently uses the available space.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first and second lumens in the cannula can be parallel flow lumens. For example, the multiple lumens can be aligned side-by-side, rather than coaxial, as shown in FIG. 16A. The cannula can include, for example, two parallel lumens for carrying fluids, instead of a traditional coaxial lumen. This can improve the flow characteristics of the cannula and allow the lumens to have smaller cross-sections, thereby reducing the overall diameter of the cannula. In addition, the parallel fluid paths can result in a higher cross-sectional area to circumference ratio than a coaxial layout. This ratio can predict pressure head loss over the length of the cannula. In this way, increasing the ratio can mean that the overall diameter of the cannula can be reduced, with minimal impact on pressure head loss.

[0092] In some embodiments, the diameter of the cannula may be tapered to decrease from the proximal end 3a to the distal end 3b of the cannula. A tapered cannula may provide better flow characteristics, a stiffer body (i.e., more resistant to bending moments), and a smaller possible tip diameter. For example, as shown in FIG. 16A, the diameter at the proximal end of the cannula may be 6.5 mm and the diameter at the distal end of the cannula may be 5 mm. Having a narrower distal tip may preserve the flow characteristics of the fluid in the lumen since the diameter of the cannula at the distal tip may be smaller without significantly affecting the pressure head loss across the cannula. For example, the fluid passages at the proximal end of the cannula may be opened up to partially compensate for their constriction at the distal end.

[0093] In addition, the distal tip of the cannula must be able to fit into a narrow cavity, while the diameter of the base or proximal end has a much looser restriction. Furthermore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first lumen and the second lumen may decrease from the proximal end of the cannula toward the distal end of the cannula. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first lumen may be equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the second lumen, for example, as shown in FIG. 16B. In some embodiments, the design of the first lumen and the second lumen may be as shown in FIG. 16C. As shown in FIG. 16C, the outflow lumen 8b may have a cross-sectional shape of an arc, and the inflow lumen 8a may have a cross-sectional shape of a circle with an arc portion removed from its circumference, the circumference of which resembles that of a Pac-Man with a round pellet in its mouth. The cannulas described herein may be formed, 3D printed, injection molded, laser cut, electroformed, and / or cast, among other options.

[0094] In addition, existing cannulas (e.g., metal cannulas) may have sharp tips with the thin tube that forms the shank at the end of the cannula. Even if these tips are sanded down, they may remain sharp because the metal they are typically made of is very thin. These sharp tips can cause damage to the patient's anatomy (e.g., the smooth cartilage bearing surfaces of a joint) when the camera is inserted during the procedure.

[0095] In some embodiments, the distal end of the cannula may include a rounded tip, such as the rounded tip 3c shown in FIG. 18. Existing cannula systems often scratch or otherwise damage the patient's anatomy (e.g., hyaline cartilage) during the procedure. To avoid this, some existing cannula systems place an overmolded plastic tip over the tip of the cannula. However, this may result in a bulkier, thicker-walled cannula, reducing maneuverability in the target anatomical space. The cannulas described herein may reduce or eliminate all sharp edges on the tip of the cannula (e.g., edge radius at least greater than 10 microns, 20 microns, 30 microns, 40 microns, or 50 microns). Additionally, the cannulas described herein may wrap around at least a portion of the scope distal tip to reduce or inhibit any of the edges of the scope from contacting the patient's anatomy. In some embodiments, a portion of the rounded tip may be configured to wrap around a portion of the distal end 2b of the scope when the portion of the scope is inserted into the lumen of the cannula. A portion of the rounded tip may be configured to wrap around a portion of the distal end of the scope without impairing or blocking any illumination from the scope and / or camera. The rounded tip may partially wrap around the edge of the scope, thereby eliminating sharp spots that may cause damage to the patient's anatomy and reducing / reducing any sharp edges from contacting the scope. The rounded tip may be an integral part of the cannula. Alternatively, the rounded tip may be a separate component that may be configured to be attached or connected to the distal end of the cannula.

[0096] In some embodiments, the visualization system may include a fluid manifold 10. In some embodiments, the cannula may comprise a fluid manifold. In some embodiments, the scope may comprise a fluid manifold. In some embodiments, the camera may comprise a fluid manifold. In some embodiments, the fluid manifold may be its own component.

[0097] In some embodiments, the fluid manifold may be configured to connect to the camera and the cannula (and scope), and the fluid manifold may fluidly couple a fluid inflow path of the camera to an inflow lumen of the cannula and a fluid outflow path of the camera to an outflow lumen of the cannula. In some embodiments, the fluid manifold may be connected to the camera via a coupling ring.

[0098] 7A-7B illustrate exploded views demonstrating how a user can attach a scope and cannula to a camera. For example, a user can insert a scope into a cannula and fluid manifold module. The user can then insert the scope and cannula into the camera. The scope and cannula can be locked into place by rotating the docking ring, driving the docking pin (the positioning feature) up a groove cut into the fluid manifold.

[0099] The cannula may be configured to be rotatably connected to a fluid manifold. The fluid manifold allows one or two independent flow paths between the camera and the cannula / scope while the cannula / scope can rotate any number of times relative to the camera. The camera and fluid manifold may be stationary while the scope and cannula are free to rotate. For example, the fluid manifold may function as a two-channel "fluid slip ring" used to carry fluids from the stationary camera head into (inlet path 10a) and out (outlet path 10b) the rotating cannula. The manifold inlet path 10a may be fluidly connected to the camera inlet path 4, and the manifold outlet path 10b may be fluidly connected to the camera outlet path 5. Additionally, the manifold inlet path 10a may be fluidly connected to the inlet lumen of the cannula, and the manifold outlet path 10b may be fluidly connected to the outlet lumen of the cannula. In some embodiments, the two fluid flow paths of the manifold can always remain separated regardless of how the cannula is rotated relative to the camera. In some embodiments, the fluid manifold can allow the cannula / scope to be disconnected from the camera. In some embodiments, the fluid manifold can be compatible with both one-way and two-way cannulas.

[0100] In some embodiments, the fluid manifold can spin around its z-axis (from the distal tip to the proximal end). For example, FIG. 15 10b illustrates the path of outgoing fluid through the manifold, and 10a illustrates the path of incoming fluid. Fluid from the manifold can enter and exit the cannula from openings 11 to the inflow and outflow lumens, as shown in FIG. 15. The operation of this concept can be similar to that of a hydraulic slip ring. FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B illustrate another example of a fluid manifold 10. As shown in these figures, the fluid manifold 10 can be captured within a cannula 3, but allowed to rotate on its z-axis. A black O-ring 12 is shown to illustrate the seal in this design.

[0101] In some embodiments, the cannula may include a cannula rotation guide 13 on the proximal end of the cannula configured to rotate the cannula relative to the camera. The cannula rotation guide may be an integral part of the cannula forming a one-piece cannula, rather than a cannula rotation guide that is a separate part attached to the cannula. The cannula rotation guide may be configured to rotate the cannula and scope when a portion of the scope is inserted within the lumen of the cannula. The cannula rotation guide may be configured to be positioned just distal to the camera when the scope and cannula are connected to the camera. A portion of the cannula rotation guide (e.g., rotation tab) may overlap a distal end of the camera when the scope and cannula are connected to the camera. In some embodiments, a portion of the cannula rotation guide (e.g., rotation tab) may overlap a distal end of the fluid manifold when the scope, cannula, and fluid manifold are connected to the camera.

[0102] The cannula rotation guide may include at least one ergonomic rotation tab. For example, FIG. 4 shows a cannula with a cannula rotation guide integrated into the cannula (or scope) that includes three ergonomic rotation tabs. A user may hold or manipulate the cannula rotation guide to rotate the scope / cannula (with the rotation guide) while the camera (and fluid manifold) remains stationary. In this manner, user manipulation of the cannula rotation guide may enable one-handed rotation of the DOV while holding the camera. This may free up the user's second hand to manipulate other tools.

[0103] In addition to the fluid management tubing, a light engine may be added to the complexity of the setup and / or COGS. In contrast, scope / cannula or camera illumination may eliminate the need for a light engine. This may result in a cheaper and simpler visualization system.

[0104] The scope, cannula, or camera may include a light source for illumination. In other words, a separate light source may not be required. This may eliminate the need for a fiber optic light guide by incorporating the light source (i.e., illumination source) in the camera, cannula, or scope while maintaining the ability to rotate the scope any number of times relative to the camera. Light guides are expensive and easily damaged by being stepped on, run over by other medical carts, or bent too sharply. In addition, they wear out quickly. Furthermore, attaching light guides to the scope is problematic because the hanging weight of the cable can cause unwanted rotation of the scope and adds volume to the scope where the user is trying to make fine adjustments. This weight may also force the camera designer to add additional friction to the scope rotation to counteract gravity. Without this constraint, it may be easier to rotate the scope.

[0105] The light source may be connected to a scope, for example, to provide illumination during a medical procedure without cumbersome cables. For example, FIG. 21 shows an example of a light source configured to be connected to a scope. The light source may include an optical assembly 30 (e.g., LED), a battery 40, a power button 45, a removable battery access cap 50, and / or a power controller 35 in an autoclavable package that may be clipped or connected onto a scope to provide illumination during a medical procedure. In addition, the light source with scope may include multiple paddles or wings 55 (as shown in FIGS. 22A-C), which may extend proximally (and slightly laterally) to allow the surgeon to rotate the assembly (and thus the scope itself) to adjust his or her field of view. In this manner, multiple paddles may be connected to the scope and light source to allow rotation of the scope and light source assembly with one hand of the user. The paddles are spring-loaded to grip the sides of the scope body to hold the assembly in place, and are free to rotate, and may serve as ergonomic touch points. The battery can provide power to the controller, which can monitor the charge state and deliver a constant current to the LEDs to ensure constant illumination even if the battery voltage drops. The controller can provide power to the LEDs. The LEDs can be mounted on a metal PCB designed to transfer its heat into the scope 2. Heating the scope can be beneficial to reduce fogging. The light from the LEDs can pass through a lens, such as a half-ball lens, that focuses it and reduces light loss in coupling to the scope. The battery can be insulated (e.g., encased in aerogel to insulate it from the high temperatures of the autoclave). A cap 50 on the proximal end can allow the battery to be removed from the device for replacement or charging. By including the power and LEDs in the surgical field, cables and consoles can be eliminated when using the scope. This can eliminate clutter from the surgical space and reduce the number of consoles on the tower. To be sterilizable, most components of the light source can be selected to be able to handle the high temperatures of an autoclave.The housing may be made from a high temperature resistant plastic material such as polyetherimide, e.g., Ultem. The light source may include, for example, high temperature electronics. To allow for one-handed rotation, the body of the light source may be tilted back toward the surgeon's hand. In addition, the two paddles may also be pointed toward the surgeon's hand. One challenge has been that the light post may be designed to allow the light cable to rotate, but in some cases the clip may not want the user to rotate around the light post. A clamp wing design may eliminate this rotation and may also eliminate the need to screw the device. Instead, the light source may be squeezed and the light post inserted into the light clip. The light source may also provide a low power notification. For example, the controller may be configured to monitor how much charge has passed through the light source. Alternatively or additionally, the controller may be configured to monitor the voltage very highly. The controller may use a 12-bit DAC to convert the analog battery voltage into a precise digital measurement that can be interpreted by the controller. Given these two pieces of information, the state of charge can be accurately calculated and a notification or warning can be provided to the user by flashing an LED output when power is low.

[0106] In examples, the light source can be an LED, laser diode, or similar source. If the light source is in the camera, an optical connection between the camera and the scope / cannula can be used, which allows the scope to be removed or rotated relative to the camera.

[0107] The system disclosed herein may eliminate or reduce the need for a scope light pillar, which can take up valuable space in the user's working zone. By eliminating the light pillar, the scope may be made shorter without sacrificing working length (i.e., the distance from the distal end of the scope to the proximal end of the cannula shank). By incorporating illumination and fluid management into the scope / camera / cannula visualization system, the overall distance between the user's hand and the visual target may be significantly shorter than systems that exist today, thereby improving maneuverability and increasing control. In FIG. 3, the working length is LOFF The visualization systems disclosed herein may be distinguished by their dimensions. The working length of the visualization systems disclosed herein may be the same as a standard arthroscope, but the overall length may be significantly shorter. The visualization systems disclosed herein may eliminate orthonormal protrusions from the scope optical axis that may affect a user's ability to hold and manipulate visualization system instruments / components.

[0108] In some embodiments, the light source may be located near the proximal end of the scope and coupled to an optical fiber that delivers that light along the length of the scope to the distal / tip end. Other embodiments may include a tip-on-tip. In some embodiments, the light may be delivered to the distal end of the visualization system via an optical fiber in the scope, an optical fiber in the cannula, a light source on the tip of the scope or cannula, and / or a transparent cannula acting as a light pipe. In some embodiments, the light source may be integrated into the scope as opposed to the camera or scope. This may avoid coupling losses at the junction between the scope and camera and may make the cannula less expensive to manufacture.

[0109] In some embodiments, the light guide may be eliminated by including an electrical drive source on board the camera, scope, or cannula that is powered by an existing electrical connection between the camera and a processing unit and / or power unit connected to the camera. When the light source is in the scope / cannula, wireless power may be transferred from the camera to the scope, allowing the scope to be removed or rotated without interference from a wired electrical connection.

[0110] In some embodiments, the scope and / or cannula may be configured to be electrically coupled to each other wirelessly. In other words, there may be no electrical contact between the scope / cannula and the camera. The scope and camera may be configured to be electrically coupled to each other wirelessly, for example, via inductive coupling. Providing wireless power to the scope and / or cannula may facilitate the use of an electrically powered light source integrated into the scope, as well as other power consuming devices within the scope and / or cannula. Additionally, inductive or other wireless power transfer between the camera and the scope / cannula may power energy consuming devices integrated into the scope / cannula, while allowing the scope / cannula to be rotated any number of times without interrupting the power provided. Power within the scope / cannula may also be used to power other energy consuming devices (e.g., small heaters to eliminate fogging of the scope, electronics to identify and track scope use, ultrasonic tip cleaning, pressure sensing, etc.). The visualization systems disclosed herein can deliver power to the scope, while the scope can be rotated any number of times relative to the camera without affecting power delivery, and the scope can be disconnected and reconnected to the camera, with no electrical contact between the scope and the camera.

[0111] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of wireless power transfer between the camera and the scope, in addition to the spatial constraints of the fluid management and scope fixation mechanisms. For example, FIGS. 9-13 show how coils for inductive coupling can be incorporated into the camera and the scope. The use of inductive coupling can limit the materials that can be used for the cannula, scope, and camera. In addition, the camera can have a camera front plate at the camera's distal end, and the scope can have a proximal scope end at its proximal end. Both the camera front plate and the proximal scope end can house coils for inductive coupling. In addition, both the camera front plate and the proximal scope end can be made of a non-conductive material so as not to dissipate inductive energy as eddy currents.

[0112] In some embodiments, the inductive coupling may be housed in a sealed section of the camera and scope, as shown in Figure 13. In some embodiments, the inductive coupling may be embedded behind a non-conductive plastic cap on the outside of the sealed portion of the camera, as shown in Figures 11-12.

[0113] The visualization system may include an anti-fogging system as shown in Figures 20A-B. The anti-fogging system may be achieved by filling the space between the scope and the camera with clean saline solution. Clean saline may be flushed between the scope and camera windows of the systems shown in these figures. Additionally, a moisture wicking coating or surface treatment may help ensure that fluid always remains in the space between these windows.

[0114] As described herein, the visualization system may provide many advantages to the user during use. A user may use the visualization system by connecting fluid management tubing to the rear of the pump and camera. A scope with integrated lighting may be connected and an inflow / outflow cannula may be connected to the top of the scope. The distal tip of the cannula and scope may then be inserted into the patient and the user may turn on fluid inflow and outflow to ensure a clear view inside the anatomical cavity. The user may manipulate the scope with his / her grasping hand to rotate the DOV to assess tissue and plan the procedure. Additionally, the user may then perform the procedure by maneuvering and maneuvering the DOV around the anatomical structure.

[0115] Although features may be described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments for clarity and conciseness of description, it will be understood that the scope of the disclosure includes embodiments having all or any combination of the described features.

[0116] definition Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms, notations, and other technical and scientific terms or terms used herein are intended to have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed subject matter belongs. In some cases, terms having a commonly understood meaning are defined herein for clarity and / or ease of reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein should not necessarily be construed as representing a substantial difference to what is commonly understood in the art.

[0117] References herein to "about" a value or parameter include (and describe) a variation that is directed to the value or parameter itself. For example, a reference to "about X" includes the description of "X." In addition, reference to a string of values ​​or parameters followed by the words "less than," "greater than," "at most," "at least," "less than or equal to," "greater than," "greater than or equal to," or other similar wording means that the wording applies to every value or parameter in the string of values ​​or parameters.

[0118] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term "and / or," as used herein, refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and / or "comprising," as used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or units, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, units, and / or groups thereof.

[0119] Certain aspects of the present disclosure include the process steps and instructions described herein in the form of algorithms. It should be noted that the process steps and instructions of the present disclosure may be embodied in software, firmware, or hardware, and when embodied in software, may reside on and be downloaded to operate from different platforms for use by various operating systems. Unless otherwise apparent from the following description, throughout the description, descriptions utilizing terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining," "displaying," "generating," and the like, should be understood to refer to the operations and processes of a computer system or similar electronic computing device that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in the computer system memory or registers or other such information storage, transmission, or display device.

[0120] The present disclosure in some embodiments also relates to a device for performing the operations herein. The device may be specially configured for the required purposes or may include a general-purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. Such a computer program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, including but not limited to a floppy disk, a USB flash drive, an external hard drive, an optical disk, a CD-ROM, a magneto-optical disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an EPROM, an EEPROM, a magnetic or optical card, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions, each connected to a computer system bus. Furthermore, the computing system referred to herein may be an architecture employing multiple processor designs, such as to perform different functions or to increase computing power. Suitable processors include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphical processing unit (GPU), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and an ASIC.

[0121] The methods, devices, and systems described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems may be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct a more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The structure of a variety of these systems may be apparent from the description above. In addition, the present disclosure is not described with reference to any particular programming language. It will be understood that a variety of programming languages ​​may be used to implement the teachings of the invention as described herein.

[0122] This application discloses several numerical ranges in the text and figures. The disclosed numerical ranges inherently support any range or value within the disclosed numerical range, including the endpoints, but since the disclosure may be practiced throughout the disclosed numerical ranges, no strict range limitations are stated literally herein.

[0123] The above description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the preferred embodiment will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thus, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. 1. A visualization system for a medical procedure, comprising: a camera comprising a fluid inlet path, a proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inlet path; a cannula having a lumen, the lumen configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inlet path at a distal end of the camera; 11. A visualization system comprising: a scope configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted within the lumen of the cannula.

2. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the scope comprises a light source.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the camera comprises a light source.

4. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the scope is configured to be optically coupled to the camera.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the cannula comprises a fluid outlet at a distal end of the cannula fluidly connected to the lumen.

6. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the camera comprises a fluid outlet path, the proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect the fluid outlet path to a fluid waste.

7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the cannula comprises a second lumen.

8. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the second lumen is configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid outflow pathway at the distal end of the camera.

9. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the cannula comprises an impermeable barrier separating the lumen from the second lumen.

10. The system of claim 7 , wherein the lumen and the second lumen are parallel.

11. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the lumen and the second lumen are non-coaxial multi-lumen.

12. The system of claim 7 , wherein the cannula comprises a fluid inlet between a proximal end and a distal end of the cannula that is fluidly connected to the second lumen.

13. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein a cross-sectional area of ​​the second lumen and the lumen decreases from the proximal end of the cannula to the distal end of the cannula.

14. 8. The system of claim 7, further comprising a fluid manifold configured to be connected to the camera and the cannula, the fluid manifold fluidly coupling the fluid inflow path of the camera to the lumen and the fluid outflow path to the second lumen.

15. The system of claim 14 , wherein the cannula is configured to be rotatably connected to the fluid manifold.

16. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the camera, scope and cannula are configured to be removably connected to one another.

17. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the scope and cannula are configured to be rotatably connected to the distal end of the camera.

18. 20. The system of claim 17, wherein the scope and cannula are configured to rotate independently of the camera.

19. 20. The system of claim 17, wherein the cannula comprises a cannula rotation guide on a proximal end of the cannula configured to rotate the cannula relative to the camera.

20. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the cannula rotation guide is configured to rotate the cannula and the scope when the portion of the scope is inserted within the lumen of the cannula.

21. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the cannula rotation guide is configured to be positioned just distal to the camera when the scope and cannula are connected to the camera.

22. The system of claim 1 , wherein the diameter of the cannula tapers from a proximal end of the cannula to a distal end of the cannula.

23. The system of claim 1 , wherein a distal end of the cannula comprises a rounded tip.

24. 24. The system of claim 23, wherein a portion of the rounded tip is configured to wrap around a portion of the distal end of the scope when the portion of the scope is inserted within the lumen of the cannula.

25. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the portion of the rounded tip is configured to wrap around a portion of the distal end of the scope without impairing or blocking illumination.

26. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the proximal end of the camera is configured to be communicatively coupled to a data cable or wirelessly to a computer.

27. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the proximal end of the camera is configured to be electrically coupled to a power cable or wirelessly electrically coupled to a power source.

28. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the scope and camera are configured to be wirelessly electrically coupled to one another.

29. 28. The system of claim 27, wherein the scope and camera are configured to be wirelessly electrically coupled to one another via inductive coupling.

30. 1. A visualization system for a medical procedure, comprising: a camera having a fluid inflow path and a fluid outflow path, a proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inflow path and to fluidly connect the fluid outflow path to a fluid waste; a cannula having first and second lumens, the first lumen configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inflow path at a distal end of the camera and the second lumen configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid outflow path at the distal end of the camera; 11. A visualization system comprising: a scope configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted within the first or second lumen of the cannula.

31. 1. A visualization system for a medical procedure, comprising: a camera comprising a fluid inlet path, a proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inlet path; a cannula having a lumen, the lumen configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inlet path at a distal end of the camera; 1. A visualization system comprising: a scope configured to be connected to and wirelessly electrically coupled to the distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted within the lumen of the cannula.

32. 1. A visualization system for a medical procedure, comprising: a camera comprising a fluid inlet path, a proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inlet path; a cannula having a lumen configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inlet pathway at a distal end of the camera, the cannula having a diameter that tapers from a proximal end of the cannula to a distal end of the cannula; 11. A visualization system comprising: a scope configured to be connected to the distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted within the lumen of the cannula.

33. 1. A visualization system for a medical procedure, comprising: a camera comprising a fluid inlet path, a proximal end of the camera configured to fluidly connect a fluid reservoir to the fluid inlet path; a cannula with a lumen and an integrated rotation guide, the lumen configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid inlet path at a distal end of the camera; 11. A visualization system comprising: a scope configured to be connected to a distal end of the camera, a portion of the scope configured to be inserted within the lumen of the cannula, and the rotation guide is disposed at a proximal end of the cannula and configured to be positioned just distal to the distal end of the camera when the scope and cannula are connected to the camera.

34. 1. A light source for an arthroscope, comprising: an optical assembly configured to provide illumination; a power controller configured to control the optical assembly; a battery configured to power the power controller; a plurality of paddles extending laterally from the light source, the plurality of paddles configured to enable a user to rotate the light source; The light source is configured to clamp to an arthroscope to provide illumination during a medical procedure.

Images