Cleaning method and cleaning apparatus

Abstract

To provide a cleaning method and a cleaning apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope in which an error hardly occurs.SOLUTION: A cleaning method includes the steps of: providing an endoscope that comprises a channel system; connecting a liquid source, a suction device, and a sealing element each to a different one of the first, second, and third channel openings; and activating the suction device for drawing liquid from the liquid source towards the suction device. While drawing the liquid from the liquid source, the holding chamber volume of the liquid source is reduced by the volume of the liquid drawn from the liquid source.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2B

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning method for pre-cleaning an endoscope, and further to a cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope. [Background technology]

[0002] An endoscope is an inspection instrument that can be used to inspect and optionally manipulate the interior of a living organism. Endoscopes can be used in human medical diagnostics for examination or minimally invasive surgery on humans or animals. Endoscopes typically include an image sensor, an optical lens, and a light source.

[0003] After use of an endoscope, the endoscope is typically pre-cleaned, manually or automatically cleaned, disinfected, and possibly sterilized before being used again on a patient. If endoscopes and accessories used in patient procedures are not cleaned immediately after each patient procedure, residual organic debris will begin to dry and harden, preventing effective removal and reprocessing. Therefore, it is necessary to pre-clean endoscopes and accessories at the bedside immediately after each patient procedure.

[0004] Pre-cleaning, which typically occurs at the bedside immediately after each patient procedure, includes, among others, the following steps: First, the biopsy / aspiration channel is pre-cleaned by placing the distal end of the endoscope in water and drawing fluid through the endoscope, and then air is drawn through the endoscope. Second, the air / water channel is pre-cleaned by placing the distal end of the endoscope in water and flushing the air / water channel with fluid. The air / water channel is then flushed with air. Third, if available, the auxiliary water channel is pre-cleaned by flushing the auxiliary water channel with water. Finally, the accessories are removed from the endoscope and placed in a fluid, such as water or a detergent solution. Typically, after the pre-cleaning procedure, the endoscope is removed from the equipment used in the patient procedure (e.g., video system center, light source, suction pump, etc.) and transported to a reprocessing area.

[0005] In U.S. Pat. No. 1,144,5900 it was proposed to pre-clean an endoscope by using multiple input members in the form of flexible tubes for use in delivering cleaning solution to multiple input ports of the endoscope, with the cleaning solution being delivered through the flexible tubes to the endoscope.

[0006] However, known procedures for pre-cleaning are relatively time-consuming and error-prone. Since pre-cleaning typically consists of several manually applied steps followed by the pre-cleaning procedure, pre-cleaning is relatively time-consuming and the endoscope may not be sufficiently pre-cleaned if only one of these steps is not performed exactly according to the pre-cleaning procedure. Furthermore, since all endoscope channels are not connected to each other, it is not possible to flush all channels with only one source. In a typically performed pre-cleaning procedure, the video system center is required to flush the air / water channels, the suction pump for aspirating the suction and biopsy channels, as well as a flushing pump or syringe for flushing the auxiliary water channel. Thus, the user is permanently involved in the procedure and needs to interact with several different user interfaces, which requires that the user is able to operate all of these user interfaces. In addition, many instruments / accessories are required to perform the pre-cleaning procedure.

[0007] Furthermore, a problem is that drying and solidification can occur in channels that are no longer filled with fluid after pre-cleaning.

[0008] Furthermore, known methods for pre-cleaning may not flush all channel sections of the endoscope, particularly branched channel sections, and therefore channel sections, particularly branched channel sections, may be omitted by the pre-cleaning procedure, however, this may result in insufficient pre-cleaning as well as undesirable drying and solidification of residual organic debris. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 11445900 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved cleaning method and an improved cleaning apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope, and in particular to provide a cleaning method and an improved cleaning apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope which is less prone to error. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to a first aspect, there is provided a cleaning method for pre-cleaning an endoscope, preferably immediately or shortly after use of the endoscope, comprising the steps of providing an endoscope with a channel system having a first channel section, a second channel section and a third channel section connected to one another at a channel connection, a first channel opening arranged at an end of the first channel section and at a distal end of the endoscope, a second channel opening arranged at an end of the second channel section and formed in particular as a connection port for connection of a fluid hose, and a third channel opening arranged at an end of the third channel section and formed in particular as a connection port for connection of a fluid hose; The method includes the steps of: connecting a liquid source, particularly a container for holding liquid, with a holding chamber configured to provide a gas-tight seal therebetween and having an alterable holding chamber volume for holding liquid, a suction device, preferably a suction pump, and a sealing element to different ones of the first, second, and third channel openings, respectively, such that each of the first, second, and third channel openings is connected to either the liquid source, the suction device, or the sealing element; and activating the suction device to draw liquid from the liquid source towards the suction device, wherein while drawing liquid from the liquid source, the holding chamber volume of the liquid source is preferably reduced by the volume of liquid drawn from the liquid source.

[0012] In the following, firstly a cleaning method for pre-cleaning an endoscope as well as its function and advantageous embodiments are described.

[0013] Preferably, the cleaning method is performed immediately or shortly after use of the endoscope in a patient procedure. Preferably, the cleaning method for pre-cleaning the endoscope is initiated within 60 minutes after use in a patient procedure, particularly preferably within 30 minutes after use in a patient procedure, and especially within 15 minutes after use in a patient procedure. Preferably, pre-cleaning is performed at the patient's bedside so that the cleaning method can be performed immediately or shortly after use of the endoscope in a patient procedure without the need to move the endoscope to another location before performing the pre-cleaning.

[0014] Preferably, the channel system comprises at least three channel sections. Preferably, the channel system may comprise more than three channel sections.

[0015] The first channel section, the second channel section, and the third channel section are connected to one another at a channel junction. Preferably, the channel junction is disposed within the endoscope.

[0016] Preferably, a channel section is to be understood as a channel extending from a channel opening to a channel connection, a channel extending from a channel opening to a channel connection, or a part of a branched channel extending from a channel opening to a channel connection. Preferably, a channel connection is understood to be a branching point where several channel sections join, in particular a first, second and third channel section.

[0017] The distal end of the endoscope may also be referred to as the distal tip of the endoscope. Preferably, the distal end should be understood as the end of the endoscope located at the very front of the insertion part of the endoscope, in particular the end that is inserted first into the patient's body when the insertion part of the endoscope is moved into the patient's body. Preferably, the outlet of the channel of the endoscope is arranged at the distal end. More preferably, the light guide is arranged at the distal end. More preferably, the objective lens can be arranged at the distal end. It is particularly preferred if the distal end is arranged at the end of the insertion part having a flexible insertion tube.

[0018] Preferably, a connection port should be understood as a port to which a fluid hose or the like can be connected.

[0019] Preferably, the endoscope may be, for example, a colonoscope, a gastroscope, an ultrasound endoscope, a duodenoscope, or another type of endoscope.

[0020] Preferably, the liquid source holds a liquid that can be used to flush the channel segments. The liquid source has a holding chamber having a holding chamber volume for holding the liquid. The holding chamber volume can vary depending, inter alia, on the volume of liquid disposed in the holding chamber. Preferably, the holding chamber volume is substantially equal to the volume of liquid disposed in the holding chamber. Preferably, the holding chamber volume decreases depending on the reduction in liquid as liquid is drawn from the liquid source.

[0021] Each of the first, second and third channel openings is connected to one of a liquid source, a suction device or a sealing element. Preferably, the liquid source is connected to the first channel opening, the suction device is connected to the second channel opening and the sealing element is connected to the third channel opening.

[0022] Preferably, by activating the suction device, liquid is drawn from the liquid source through the first and second channel segments towards the suction device.

[0023] Preferably, by activating a suction device, air is drawn from the channel section to which the sealing element is connected.

[0024] The advantage of this method is that by applying a negative pressure using the suction device, air can be drawn out of the channel section to which the sealing element is connected, thereby allowing a negative pressure to build up in this channel section, and the other channel sections are flushed with liquid, so that in a further step, the negative pressure in the channel to which the sealing element is connected allows liquid to be drawn into this channel section when the suction device is switched off and / or disconnected from the channel system, so that this channel section is also filled with liquid. Thus, the first, second and third channel sections can be filled with liquid by first applying a negative pressure to the channel system and then removing and / or disconnecting the suction device in order to draw liquid into the channel sections in which air was drawn in and in which negative pressure has built up. The channel section to which the sealing element is connected is particularly filled with liquid, since the negative pressure is reduced and finally the ambient pressure is present.

[0025] A further advantage of this cleaning method is that it can be ensured that the entire channel system, including the first, second and third channel sections, is filled with liquid. In particular, it can be ensured that the branched channel sections are also filled with liquid. In this way, it can be ensured that all of the channel sections are sufficiently filled with liquid and pre-cleaned. Thus, insufficient pre-cleaning as well as undesirable drying and solidification of residual organic debris can be avoided.

[0026] The advantage of this cleaning method is that after the pre-cleaning procedure the channels can be kept moist and / or filled with liquid, thus preventing drying and solidification in the channels after pre-cleaning in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, the sealing element is connected to the corresponding channel opening such that the corresponding channel opening is hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the channel opening.

[0028] Preferably, the sealing element is connected to the third channel opening. Such an airtight seal can be understood to be a gastight seal.

[0029] The advantage of sealing the corresponding channel against the environment is that in this way, external gas cannot enter the channel and a negative pressure can build up in the corresponding channel, which can later be used to draw liquid into the channel.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment, the first channel section extends from the first channel opening to the channel connection, the second channel section extends from the second channel opening to the channel connection, and the third channel section extends from the third channel opening to the channel connection. Preferably, the first, second and third channel sections extend from the first, second and third channel openings to the channel connection, respectively.

[0031] In a further preferred embodiment, the first channel section and the second channel section form a channel extending from the first channel opening to the second channel opening, and the third channel section forms a branched channel section fluidly connected to the channel at a channel junction. Such a channel formed by the first channel section and the second channel section can form a suction channel extending from the first channel opening at the distal end of the endoscope to the second channel opening forming a connection port to which a suction device can be connected.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment, the liquid source is connected to the first channel opening and positioned at the distal end of the endoscope such that the liquid source is fluidly connected to the distal end of the endoscope and such that the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

[0033] An advantage of such a hermetic sealing of the distal end from the environment by using a liquid source is that, in this manner, the holding chamber volume of the liquid source can be reduced as liquid is drawn from the liquid source.

[0034] Preferably, the fluid source and the distal end of the endoscope are also fluid-tight sealed from the environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the fluid source.

[0035] The advantage of sealing the distal end from the environment by using a liquid source is that, in this way, external fluids cannot enter the channel section and liquid cannot escape from the distal end into the environment surrounding the liquid source.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment the suction device is connected to the second channel opening via an intermediate liquid retention element, in particular a hose, preferably having a retention volume formed by a channel of the intermediate liquid retention element.

[0037] Preferably, such an intermediate liquid retention element is disposed between the second channel opening and the suction device. Preferably, such an intermediate liquid retention element is configured to hold liquid drawn from a liquid source by applying a negative pressure towards the suction device using the suction device. Preferably, after drawing liquid into the intermediate liquid retention element towards the suction device, the suction device is turned off and / or disconnected so that negative pressure is no longer applied by the suction device and so that the liquid disposed in the intermediate liquid retention element can be drawn into the third channel section by the negative pressure accumulated in the third channel section.

[0038] The advantage of such an intermediate liquid retaining element is that liquid can be provided to be collected and then transferred into the third channel section, which can be automatically transferred from the intermediate liquid retaining element to the third channel section by the negative pressure built up in the third channel section, thus ensuring a reliable supply of liquid to the third channel section, so that the third channel section is pre-cleaned and no solidification process can occur in the third channel section.

[0039] Preferably, the retention volume of the intermediate liquid retention element is equal to or greater than the retention volume of the third channel section, in this way a sufficient amount of liquid can be collected in the intermediate liquid retention element and transferred into the third channel section.

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment, air is removed from the third channel section by activating a suction device, such that negative pressure builds up in the third channel section, preferably the third channel section being formed as a biopsy branch or an air channel branch.

[0041] Preferably, the extension of the third channel section from the third channel opening to the channel connection is several times smaller than the extension of the first channel section from the first channel opening to the channel connection. Preferably, the extension of the third channel section from the third channel opening to the channel connection is several times smaller than the extension of the second channel section from the second channel opening to the channel connection.

[0042] In a further preferred embodiment, the cleaning method comprises venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected, preferably the other channel section and / or the channel, preferably by disconnecting the suction device from the second channel opening.

[0043] Preferably, venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected in particular stops the application of negative pressure by the suction device. Furthermore, venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected allows air to flow into the intermediate liquid retention element.

[0044] In a further preferred embodiment, the cleaning method includes, after venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected, filling the third channel section with liquid from the channel section to which the suction device is connected by using negative pressure accumulated due to the negative pressure applied in the third channel section by the suction device prior to venting.

[0045] Preferably, venting the channel section creates a pressure differential between this channel and the third channel, causing a negative pressure to build up and, as a result, liquid to be drawn into the third channel section.

[0046] In a further preferred embodiment, connecting the sealing element to the third channel opening comprises placing a transparent sealing element, preferably designed as a closed transparent tube element, over the third channel opening.

[0047] Preferably, the sealing element is transparent. Such a transparent sealing element has the advantage that it can be seen from the outside of the endoscope when liquid is placed against the sealant.

[0048] The sealing element is preferably formed as a closed tubular element, which is preferably transparent or at least partially transparent. In this way, liquid can be drawn through the third channel section into the sealing element and thus completely through the third channel section. The advantage of such a tubular sealing element is that the user can easily see from outside the endoscope whether liquid is present in the sealing element and thus whether liquid has been drawn through the third channel section.

[0049] In a further preferred embodiment, the liquid disposed in the liquid source and drawn through the channel segment is water, a disinfectant liquid, or a detergent liquid.

[0050] To achieve better removal of organic debris, it is preferred to use a disinfecting and / or detergent solution.

[0051] In a further preferred embodiment, the endoscope includes the following channels: an air channel extending from an air channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope; a suction channel, preferably formed by first and second channel sections, extending from a suction channel connection port, preferably formed by a second channel opening, to the distal end of the endoscope; a water channel extending from a water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope; and an auxiliary water channel, preferably extending from an auxiliary water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope.

[0052] Preferably, the air channel is adapted to supply air to the distal end of the endoscope. Preferably, the suction channel is adapted to draw liquid and / or matter, such as a tissue sample, from the distal end of the endoscope through the endoscope. Preferably, the water channel is adapted to supply water at the distal end of the endoscope. Preferably, the auxiliary water channel is adapted to supply water at the distal end of the endoscope.

[0053] Preferably, the channels are arranged parallel to one another over at least a portion of their extension from one of the connection ports to the distal end of the endoscope. The endoscope may include at least one further channel segment that does not extend to the distal end of the endoscope, in particular a branched channel segment such as a biopsy branch.

[0054] In a further preferred embodiment, these channels are fluidly connected to each other at the distal end of the endoscope by arranging a container on the distal end of the endoscope such that the distal end is hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the distal end. Preferably, the container is not filled with liquid before flushing the channels of the endoscope. The advantage of such an empty container is that liquid can be drawn from a liquid source arranged at the connection port through these channels to the container and from the container through at least a part of the channel system, in particular through the first and second channel sections. Alternatively, it is also possible that the container is already filled with liquid before flushing the channels. Filling the container with liquid before starting the flushing of the channels can have the advantage that the distal end of the endoscope is in contact with the liquid for a longer period and is immersed for a longer period, which can be beneficial to achieve a more thorough pre-cleaning of the distal end, if necessary.

[0055] Preferably, the internal volume of the container is not alterable. This can be achieved, for example, by using a relatively rigid material for the container walls that define the internal chamber of the container. In this way, when negative pressure is applied to the internal chamber of the container, the internal volume of the container remains substantially unchanged, although not included, such that the fluid connection of the channels at the end of the endoscope remains even when negative pressure is applied to the channel system and thus to the internal volume of the container.

[0056] In a further preferred embodiment, the cleaning method includes connecting a liquid source to at least two of the connection ports, preferably at least the connection port of the air channel and the connection port of the water channel, and drawing liquid from the liquid source through these channels of the endoscope, preferably through all of the channels of the endoscope, towards the suction device.

[0057] An advantage of such an embodiment is that liquid may be drawn through all of the channels to which such liquid sources are connected, and possibly through further channel segments and / or channels.

[0058] The advantages explained above with respect to the cleaning method for pre-cleaning are also advantages of a cleaning device for such pre-cleaning.

[0059] According to a further aspect, a cleaning device is provided for pre-cleaning an endoscope, preferably immediately or shortly after use of the endoscope, in particular for pre-cleaning an endoscope according to the cleaning method described herein, the endoscope comprising a first channel section, a second channel section and a third channel section, which are connected to one another at a channel connection, a first channel opening arranged at an end of the first channel section and at the distal end of the endoscope, a second channel opening arranged at the end of the second channel section and formed as a connection port in particular for the connection of a fluid hose, and a third channel section arranged at the end of the third channel section and formed as a connection port in particular for the connection of a fluid hose. The cleaning apparatus comprises a channel system having a liquid source, in particular a container for holding a liquid, a suction device, preferably a suction pump, and a sealing element, wherein the liquid source, the suction device, and the sealing element are each connected to a different one of the first, second, and third channel openings such that each of the first, second, and third channel openings is connected to either the liquid source, the suction device, or the sealing element, and the liquid source is configured to provide a gas-tight seal from the environment surrounding the liquid source and comprises a holding chamber having a changeable holding chamber volume for holding a liquid.

[0060] In a further preferred embodiment, the first channel section extends from the first channel opening to the channel connection, the second channel section extends from the second channel opening to the channel connection, and the third channel section extends from the third channel opening to the channel connection.

[0061] In a further preferred embodiment, the liquid source is connected to the first channel opening and positioned at the distal end of the endoscope such that the liquid source is fluidly connected to the distal end of the endoscope and such that the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

[0062] In a further preferred embodiment, a sealing element is connected to the corresponding channel opening such that the corresponding channel opening is hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the connection port, preferably the sealing element is connected to the third channel opening.

[0063] In a further preferred embodiment, the sealing element is formed as a transparent sealing element, preferably designed as a closed transparent tube element, which is connected to the third channel opening.

[0064] In a further preferred embodiment, these channels include an air channel extending from the air channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, a suction channel, preferably formed by first and second channel sections, extending from a suction channel connection port, preferably formed by a second channel opening, to the distal end of the endoscope, a water channel extending from a water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope, and an auxiliary water channel, preferably extending from an auxiliary water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope.

[0065] With regard to the advantages, preferred embodiments and details of the individual different aspects and their preferred embodiments, reference is also made to the corresponding advantages, preferred embodiments and details which have been described with reference to the respective other aspects.

[0066] Further advantageous embodiments result from the combination of any individual, some or all of the preferred features described herein. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0067] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope. [Figure 2A] 1 shows a schematic flow diagram of a first portion of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning method for pre-cleaning an endoscope. [Figure 2B] 2B shows a schematic flow diagram of a second portion of an embodiment of a cleaning method for pre-cleaning the endoscope shown in FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope. [Figure 3B] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope. [Figure 4] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope. [Diagram 5] 1 shows a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning method for pre-cleaning an endoscope. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0068] In the figures, elements having the same or equivalent functions are designated with the same reference numbers.

[0069] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope 10. The endoscope 10 can be pre-cleaned immediately or shortly after use of the endoscope 10. The endoscope 10 includes an endoscope body 30 and channels 11, 12, 13, 14 for transporting fluids, namely, a suction channel 11, an air channel 12, a water channel 13, and an auxiliary water channel 14.

[0070] The suction channel 11 is adapted to draw liquid and / or matter, such as, for example, a tissue sample, through the endoscope 10 from a distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The suction channel 11 extends from a second channel opening 11a formed as a suction channel connection port 11a to a first channel opening 11z disposed at the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The distal end 20 is the end of the endoscope 10 located at the front-most portion of the insertion section 21 of the endoscope 10.

[0071] The suction channel 11 is formed by a first channel section 11y and a second channel section 11x. The first channel section 11y extends from the first channel opening 11z to the channel connection 11j. The second channel section 11x extends from the second channel opening 11a to the channel connection 11j.

[0072] The endoscope 10 further includes a third channel section 11b formed as a biopsy branch 11b extending from a third channel opening 11c formed as a biopsy branch connection port 11c to a channel connection section 11j that merges with the first channel section 11y and the second channel section 11x.

[0073] The first channel section 11y, the second channel section 11x, and the third channel section 11b, which join at a channel junction 11j, form a channel system 11s.

[0074] The air channel 12 is adapted to supply air to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The air channel 12 extends from the air channel connection port 12a to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The water channel 13 is adapted to supply water at the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The water channel 13 extends from the water channel connection port 13a to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The auxiliary water channel 14 is adapted to supply water at the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The auxiliary water channel 14 extends from the auxiliary water channel connection port 14a to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10.

[0075] The connection ports 11a, 11c, 12a, 13a, 14a are adapted for the connection of fluid hoses, containers, closure elements, and / or sealing elements. Each of the channels 11, 12, 13, 14 extends from one of the connection ports 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a to the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10.

[0076] The air channel 12 and the water channel 13 can be fluidly connected and / or separated from one another via an air / water cylinder 19. An air vent can be assembled to the air / water cylinder 19. The air / water cylinder 19 is sealed with a closure element 60 that is adapted to close the air / water cylinder 19 liquid-tight. Furthermore, a suction cylinder 40 is provided to which the suction channel 11 is connected. An air vent can be assembled to the suction cylinder 40.

[0077] The sealing element 78 is disposed on the biopsy branch connection port 11c. The sealing element 78 is formed as a transparent sealing element designed as a closed transparent tube element, and the sealing element 78 is disposed on the third channel opening 11c such that the third channel opening 11c is hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the third channel opening 11c.

[0078] A liquid source 77 formed as a container is disposed on the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 such that the liquid source 77 is connected to the first channel opening 11z and thus to the first channel section 11y. The liquid source 77 has a liquid-retaining chamber 77h having a variable retention chamber volume. Liquid drawn into the channel system 11s is disposed within the liquid-retaining chamber 77h, the volume of liquid being equal to the liquid-retaining volume. The liquid source 77 is air-tight and liquid-tight sealed to the environment surrounding the liquid source 77.

[0079] A suction device 90, which in this preferred embodiment is formed as a suction pump, is connected to the connection port 11a of the second channel section 11x via a fluid hose 90a. A suction jar 95 can be connected to the suction device 90 to collect the liquid drawn from the channel system 11s. When the suction device 90 is activated, a negative pressure is applied to the channel system 11s such that liquid is drawn from the liquid source 77 through the first channel section 11y and the second channel section 11x towards the suction device 90. During the drawing of liquid from the liquid source 77, the liquid source 77 is formed airtight such that air cannot enter the liquid holding chamber 77h from outside the liquid source 77, so that the liquid volume and at the same time the volume of the liquid holding chamber 77h decreases. Due to the negative pressure in the channel system 11s applied by the suction device 90, air is drawn from the third channel section 11b and possibly from the sealing element 78 towards the suction device 90, as a result of which a negative pressure builds up in the third channel section 11b.

[0080] When the liquid is completely drawn from the liquid source 77, i.e. when the liquid holding chamber 77h is empty and the volume of the liquid chamber 77h is substantially equal to zero, the suction device 90 is disconnected from the fluid hose 90a, so that negative pressure is no longer applied by the suction device 90 and the channel system 11s is vented as it is opened to the environment at the second channel opening 11a and / or the fluid hose 90a. The lowest pressure is now present in the third channel section 11b, to which negative pressure was previously applied by removing air from the third channel section 11b. The lowest pressure draws the liquid present in the channel system 11s and / or the fluid hose 90a towards and into the third channel section 11b.

[0081] When the fluid hose 90a is formed as an intermediate liquid retaining element, the retaining volume of this intermediate liquid retaining element is equal to or larger than the retaining volume of the third channel section 11b, in this way a sufficient amount of liquid can be collected in the intermediate liquid retaining element, the fluid hose 90a, and transferred into the third channel section 11b, and preferably the entire channel system 11s can be kept wet and / or filled with liquid.

[0082] Furthermore, an additional liquid source, preferably formed as a container, or a closure element for closing the connection port can be arranged on the additional connection port, as follows: A container 72 can be arranged on the connection port 12a of the air channel 12. If the air channel 12 does not need to be flushed during the pre-cleaning procedure, a closure element can be arranged on the connection port 12a instead of the container 72. A container 73 can be arranged on the connection port 13a of the water channel 13. If the water channel 13 does not need to be flushed during the pre-cleaning procedure, a closure element can be arranged on the connection port 13a instead of the container 73.

[0083] Furthermore, a container 74 can be arranged on the connection port 14a of the auxiliary water channel 14. If the auxiliary water channel 14 does not need to be flushed during the pre-cleaning procedure, a closing element can be arranged on the connection port 14a instead of the container 74. The containers 72, 73, 74 can be filled with a liquid, in particular a disinfecting liquid and / or a detergent liquid.

[0084] FIG. 2A shows a schematic flow diagram of a first part of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning method for pre-cleaning an endoscope. The channel system 11s, the sealing element 78, the liquid source 77, the suction pump 90, and the suction jar 95 can be arranged as described in relation to FIG. 1. The channel system 11s includes a first channel section 11y, a second channel section 11x, and a third channel section 11b, the first, second, and third channel sections 11y, 11x, 11b being connected at a channel connection 11j. The suction pump 90 is connected to the channel system 11s at the second channel opening 11a of the second channel section 11x such that a negative pressure is applied to the channel system 11s. This negative pressure draws liquid from the container 77 through the first channel section 11y and through the second channel section 11x towards the suction pump 90. The liquid or a portion of the liquid can be collected in the suction jar 95. Negative pressure applied to the channel system 11s draws air out of the third channel section 11b and the sealing element 78. Both liquid and air flow directions are indicated by arrows.

[0085] FIG. 2B shows a schematic flow diagram of a second portion of an embodiment of a cleaning method for pre-cleaning the endoscope shown in FIG. 2A.

[0086] After drawing liquid from the container 77 through the first channel section 11y and the second channel section 11x as described in relation to Fig. 2A, the suction pump 90 is disconnected from the channel system 11s by disconnecting it from the second channel opening 11a of the second channel section 11x so that negative pressure is no longer applied to the channel system 11s by the suction device 90. The negative pressure built up in the third channel section 11b draws liquid from the second channel section 11x towards the third channel section 11b, so that the third channel section 11b fills with liquid. The liquid flow direction is indicated by the arrows.

[0087] FIG. 3A shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope, which can be used in the cleaning method described in relation to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B. The channel system 11s includes a first channel section 11y, which is part of the suction channel, a second channel section 11x, which is also part of the suction channel, and a third channel section 11b, which is formed as a biopsy branch, the first, second and third channel sections 11y, 11x, 11b being connected at a channel connection 11j. A suction pump 90 is connected to the channel system 11s at the second channel opening 11a of the second channel section 11x, so that a negative pressure can be applied to the channel system 11s. A container 77, which is connected to the first channel opening 11z of the first channel section 11y, has a liquid-holding chamber 77h, which is formed airtight and has a changeable volume. The sealing element 78 is disposed over the third channel opening 11c of the third channel segment 11b such that the third channel opening 11c is hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the third channel opening 11c. Liquid can be drawn through the channel segment as described in relation to Figures 2A and 2B.

[0088] Fig. 3B shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope, which is similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3A, and therefore reference is made to the description of Fig. 3A. However, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 3B, the suction device 90 is connected to the second channel opening 11a of the second channel section 11x through an intermediate liquid holding element formed as a fluid hose 90a having a holding volume formed by the channels of the intermediate liquid holding element. After disconnecting the suction pump 90 from the channel system 11s, liquid can be drawn from the intermediate liquid holding element, the fluid hose 90a, through the second channel section 11x into the third channel section 11b. Furthermore, the sealing element 78 arranged on the biopsy branch 11b is formed as a transparent sealing element designed as a closed transparent tube element arranged on the third channel opening 11c of the third channel section 11b, such that the third channel opening 11c is hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the third channel opening 11c.

[0089] Figure 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning apparatus for pre-cleaning an endoscope 10. The cleaning apparatus is constructed and arranged substantially as described in connection with Figure 1. However, instead of a liquid source 77, a container 80 is disposed on the distal tip 20 of the endoscope 10.

[0090] The channels 11, 12, 13, 14 are fluidly connected to each other at the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 by placing a container 80 on the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10. The container 80 is placed on the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 such that the distal end 20, including the outer circumferential surface 20a of the distal end 20, is placed entirely inside the container 80. When the container 80 is filled with liquid, the entire distal end 20, including the outer surface of the distal end 20, is in contact with the liquid, so that a reliable pre-cleaning of the entire distal end 20 can be achieved. The container 80 is placed on the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 such that the distal end 20 of the endoscope 10 is liquid-tight and gas-tight sealed from the environment surrounding the container 80.

[0091] A container 72 is placed on the connection port 12a of the air channel 12. If the air channel 12 does not need to be flushed during the pre-cleaning procedure, a closure element can be placed on the connection port 12a instead of the container 72. A container 73 is placed on the connection port 13a of the water channel 13. If the water channel 13 does not need to be flushed during the pre-cleaning procedure, a closure element can be placed on the connection port 13a instead of the container 73. Furthermore, a container 74 is placed on the connection port 14a of the auxiliary water channel 14. If the auxiliary water channel 14 does not need to be flushed during the pre-cleaning procedure, a closure element can be placed on the connection port 14a instead of the container 74. The containers 72, 73, 74 are filled with a liquid, in particular a disinfecting liquid and / or a detergent liquid.

[0092] When the suction device 90 is activated, a negative pressure is applied to the system, which results in liquid being drawn towards the suction device 90, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0093] Liquid is drawn from the containers 72, 73, 74 through the corresponding channels 12, 13, 14 towards the distal end 20. Due to a fluid connection at the distal end 20 provided by a container 80 located at the distal end 20, liquid is drawn from there through the entire extension of the suction channel 11, out of the connection port 11a, via the fluid hose 90a to the suction device 90 and from the suction device 90 to the suction jar 95.

[0094] When the liquid is completely withdrawn from the containers 72, 73, 74, the suction device 90 is disconnected from the fluid hose 90a, so that negative pressure is no longer applied by the suction device 90 and the channel system 11s is vented as it is opened to the environment at the second channel opening 11a and / or the fluid hose 90a. The lowest pressure now exists in the third channel section 11b, to which negative pressure was previously applied by removing air from the third channel section 11b. The lowest pressure draws the liquid present in the channel system 11s and / or the fluid hose 90a towards and into the third channel section 11b.

[0095] When the fluid hose 90a is formed as an intermediate liquid retaining element, the retaining volume of this intermediate liquid retaining element is equal to or larger than the retaining volume of the third channel section 11b, in this way a sufficient amount of liquid can be collected in the intermediate liquid retaining element, the fluid hose 90a, and transferred into the third channel section 11b, and preferably the entire channel system 11s can be kept wet and / or filled with liquid.

[0096] FIG. 5 shows a schematic flow diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning method 100 for pre-cleaning an endoscope, which is performed immediately or shortly after use of the endoscope in a patient procedure and includes the following steps:

[0097] Step 110 includes providing an endoscope including a channel system, the channel system including a first channel section, a second channel section, and a third channel section, the channel sections being connected to each other at a channel connection, and a first channel opening, a second channel opening, and a third channel opening, the first channel opening being disposed at an end of the first channel section and at a distal end of the endoscope, the second channel opening being disposed at an end of the second channel section and formed particularly as a connection port for connecting a fluid hose, and the third channel opening being disposed at an end of the third channel section and formed particularly as a connection port for connecting a fluid hose.

[0098] In step 120, a liquid source, particularly a container for holding liquid, a suction device, preferably a suction pump, and a sealing element are each connected to a different one of the first, second, and third channel openings such that each of the first, second, and third channel openings is connected to either a liquid source, a suction device, or a sealing element, wherein the liquid source is configured to provide a gas-tight seal from the environment surrounding the liquid source, the liquid source has a holding chamber having a holding chamber volume for holding liquid, and the holding chamber volume of the holding chamber is alterable.

[0099] In step 130, the suction device is actuated to draw liquid from the liquid source towards the suction device, and while drawing liquid from the liquid source, the holding chamber volume of the liquid source is preferably reduced by the volume of liquid drawn from the liquid source.

[0100] In step 140, venting the channel segment to which the suction device is connected, preferably the other channel segment and / or channel, preferably by disconnecting the suction device from the second channel opening.

[0101] In step 150, after venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected, filling the third channel section with liquid from the channel section to which the suction device is connected by using the negative pressure accumulated due to the negative pressure applied in the third channel section by the suction device prior to venting. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 10 Endoscopy 11 Suction Channel 11a Suction channel connection port, second channel opening 11b Third Channel Division 11c Biopsy branch connection port, third channel opening 11j Channel Connection 11s Channel 11x 2nd Channel Division 11y 1st channel division 11z First channel opening 12 Air Channels 12a Air channel connection port 13 Water Channel 13a Water channel connection port 14 Auxiliary Water Channels 14a Auxiliary water channel connection port 19 Air / Water Cylinders 20 Distal end 20a Outer surface 21 Insertion section 30 Endoscope body 40 Suction Cylinder 60 Closure elements 72 Container 73 Container 74 Container 77 Liquid Source 77h Liquid Retention Chamber 78 Sealing Elements 80 containers 90 Suction Devices 90a fluid hose 95 Suction Jar

Claims

1. 1. A cleaning method for pre-cleaning an endoscope, comprising: a first channel section, a second channel section, and a third channel section connected to one another at a channel connection; a first channel opening disposed at an end of the first channel section and at a distal end of the endoscope; a second channel opening disposed at an end of the second channel section and formed as a connection port for connection of a fluid hose; providing an endoscope with a channel system having a third channel opening disposed at an end of the third channel section and formed as a connection port for connection of a fluid hose; connecting a liquid source, the liquid source including a holding chamber configured to provide a gas-tight seal from a surrounding environment and having a variable holding chamber volume for holding a liquid, a suction device, and a sealing element, respectively, to different ones of the first, second, and third channel openings such that each of the first, second, and third channel openings is connected to either the liquid source, the suction device, or the sealing element; and activating the suction device to draw liquid from the liquid source towards the suction device; A method of cleaning wherein, during drawing of liquid from the liquid source, the holding chamber volume of the liquid source is decreased by the volume of liquid drawn from the liquid source.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sealing element is connected to the third channel opening such that the third channel opening is hermetically sealed from an environment surrounding the third channel opening.

3. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first channel section extends from the first channel opening to the channel connection, the second channel section extends from the second channel opening to the channel connection, and the third channel section extends from the third channel opening to the channel connection.

4. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first channel section and the second channel section form a channel extending from the first channel opening to the second channel opening, and the third channel section forms a branched channel section fluidly connected to the channel at the channel junction.

5. 2. The cleaning method of claim 1, wherein the liquid source is fluidly connected to the distal end of the endoscope and connected to the first channel opening and positioned at the distal end of the endoscope such that the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are hermetically sealed from an environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

6. the suction device is connected to the second channel opening via an intermediate liquid retention element having a retention volume formed by a channel of the intermediate liquid retention element; The method of claim 4 , wherein the retention volume of the intermediate liquid retention element is greater than the retention volume of the branched channel section.

7. 2. The cleaning method of claim 1, wherein activating the suction device removes air from the third channel section such that a negative pressure builds up within the third channel section, the third channel section being formed as a biopsy branch or an air channel branch.

8. The method of claim 6 further comprising the step of venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected by disconnecting the suction device from the second channel opening.

9. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising, after venting the channel section to which the suction device is connected, filling the third channel section with liquid from the channel section to which the suction device is connected by using negative pressure accumulated by the negative pressure applied in the third channel section by the suction device prior to venting.

10. 2. The cleaning method according to claim 1, wherein the sealing element is a transparent sealing element designed as a closed transparent tube element.

11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the liquid disposed in the liquid source and drawn toward the suction device is water, a disinfectant liquid, or a detergent liquid.

12. The endoscope includes: an air channel extending from an air channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope; a suction channel formed by the first and second channel sections, the suction channel extending from a suction channel connection port formed by the second channel opening to the distal end of the endoscope; a water channel extending from a water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope; 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: an auxiliary water channel extending from an auxiliary water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope.

13. A cleaning device for pre-cleaning an endoscope, comprising: The endoscope includes: a first channel section, a second channel section, and a third channel section connected to one another at a channel connection; a first channel opening disposed at an end of the first channel section and at a distal end of the endoscope; a second channel opening disposed at an end of the second channel section and formed as a connection port for connection of a fluid hose; a third channel opening disposed at an end of the third channel section and formed as a connection port for connection of a fluid hose; The cleaning device includes: A liquid source; A suction device; a sealing element; the liquid source, the suction device, and the sealing element are each connected to a different one of the first, second, and third channel openings such that each of the first, second, and third channel openings is connected to either the liquid source, the suction device, or the sealing element; A cleaning apparatus, wherein the liquid source is configured to provide a gas-tight seal from an environment surrounding the liquid source and includes a holding chamber having a variable holding chamber volume for holding liquid.

14. 14. The cleaning apparatus of claim 13, wherein the first channel segment extends from the first channel opening to the channel connection, the second channel segment extends from the second channel opening to the channel connection, and the third channel segment extends from the third channel opening to the channel connection.

15. 14. The cleaning device of claim 13, wherein the liquid source is fluidly connected to the distal end of the endoscope and connected to the first channel opening and positioned at the distal end of the endoscope such that the liquid source and the distal end of the endoscope are hermetically sealed from an environment surrounding the distal end of the endoscope and the liquid source.

16. The cleaning device according to claim 13, wherein the sealing element is formed as a transparent sealing element designed as a closed transparent tube element connected to the third channel opening and / or connected to the third channel opening so that the third channel opening is hermetically sealed from the environment surrounding the third channel opening.

17. The endoscope includes: an air channel extending from an air channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope; a suction channel formed by the first and second channel sections, the suction channel extending from a suction channel connection port formed by the second channel opening to the distal end of the endoscope; a water channel extending from a water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope; 14. The cleaning device of claim 13, comprising: an auxiliary water channel extending from an auxiliary water channel connection port to the distal end of the endoscope.

Images