Medical Device Extensions

Abstract

The medical system includes a scope including a shaft, a handle, and a first tube extending from the handle, a medical instrument including a processor and a first fluid source, and a second tube. The second tube includes a first end including a first connector that engages the processor and a second connector that engages the first fluid source, a second end including a third connector that engages the first tube, a first channel configured to communicate data from the processor to the scope and extending between the first connector and the third connector, and a second channel configured to transport fluid from the first fluid source to the scope and extending between the second connector and a first fluid outlet of the second tube. The second channel includes a first pump configured to pressurize fluid passing through the second channel.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical systems and components thereof. More specifically, at least some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to medical systems that include an extension or elongate feature between a medical device (e.g., a scope) and an instrument that supports the medical device. [Background technology]

[0002] During certain medical procedures (e.g., endoscopy), the umbilicus of the scope may have limited range of motion for a variety of reasons (e.g., length, tangling, etc.). This may limit the endoscopist's ability to perform the procedure effectively and / or efficiently. To increase the range of motion, various devices or instruments may be used to reposition or manipulate the umbilicus. However, such devices or instruments may not provide the endoscopist with sufficient range of motion. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one example, a medical system may include a scope including a shaft, a handle, and a first tube extending from the handle; a medical instrument including a processor and a first fluid source; a first end including a first connector engaging the processor and a second connector engaging the first fluid source, a second end including a third connector engaging the first tube; a second tube including a first channel configured to communicate data from the processor to the scope and extending between the first connector and the third connector; and a second channel configured to transport fluid from the first fluid source to the scope and extending between the second connector and a first fluid outlet of the second tube, the second channel including a first pump configured to pressurize fluid passing through the second channel, the first pump proximate to either the second end of the second tube or the first end of the second tube.

[0004] In another example, the first channel may include a booster configured to boost transmission of data from the processor to the scope, the booster being closer to the second end of the second tube than the first end of the second tube. The first pump may be closer to the second end of the second tube than the first end of the second tube. The first pump may be configured to at least restore a loss of pressure of the first fluid initially transported from the first fluid source to the second channel. The medical system may further include a secondary water source downstream of the first pump, the secondary water source being disposed at a junction between the first and second ends of the second tube, the first fluid source being air, the secondary water source being in fluid communication with the second channel, and the first pump being configured to pressurize the secondary water source.

[0005] In another example, the first pump may be closer to the first end of the second tube than to the second end of the second tube. The medical system may further include a secondary water source downstream of the first pump, the secondary water source co-located with the medical device, the first fluid source being air, the secondary water source in fluid communication with the second channel, and the first pump configured to pressurize the secondary water source.

[0006] In another example, the medical device may further include a second fluid source, the second tube may further include a third channel configured to convey fluid from the second fluid source, the third channel in fluid communication with the second fluid source, and the third channel including a second pump configured to pressurize fluid passing through the third channel. The third channel may extend between a first fluid inlet of the second tube and a second fluid outlet of the second tube, and the medical system may further include a first tubing extending between the first fluid inlet and the second fluid source, and a second tubing extending between the second fluid outlet and the scope. The medical device may further include a third fluid source, the second tube may further include a fourth channel configured to convey fluid from the third fluid source, the fourth channel in fluid communication with the third fluid source, and the fourth channel including a third pump configured to pressurize fluid passing through the third channel. The fourth channel may extend between a second fluid inlet of the second tube and a third fluid outlet of the second tube, and the medical system may further include a third tubing extending between the second fluid inlet and a third fluid source, and a fourth tubing extending between the third fluid outlet and the scope. The second fluid source may be water, and the third fluid source may be suction. The first pump, the second pump, and the third pump may be closer to the second end of the second tube than the first end of the second tube. The second end of the second tube may include a seal configured to prevent fluid from the first fluid source from leaking out of the second end.

[0007] According to one example, a medical system may include a scope including a shaft, a handle, and a first tube extending from the handle, a medical instrument including a vacuum source, a second tube including a first end engaging the medical instrument, a second end engaging the first tube, and a first channel in fluid communication with the vacuum source and the scope, the first channel configured to convey suction from the vacuum source to the scope, the first channel including a pump configured to pressurize a vacuum passing through the first channel, and a housing coupled to the second tube, the housing including a cavity configured to capture material drawn proximally via suction. The first channel may include a first portion, a second portion, and a rotatable connector disposed therebetween, the rotatable connector being rotatable between a first position and a second position. In the first position of the rotatable connector, a flow of suction may be directed through the second portion of the first channel into the cavity of the housing, thereby capturing material in the cavity. In a second position of the rotatable connector, the aspiration flow may be routed directly from the scope to the medical instrument, bypassing the cavity in the housing.

[0008] According to another example, a medical device may include a tube including a first end configured to engage a medical instrument and a second end configured to engage an umbilicus of a scope, the tube including a first channel configured to transport a first fluid from the medical device to a secondary source, the first channel including a first pump configured to pressurize the fluid passing therethrough, a second channel configured to transport a second fluid from the medical device to the scope, the second channel including a second pump configured to pressurize the fluid passing therethrough, and a third channel configured to transport a third fluid from the medical device to the scope, the third channel including a third pump configured to pressurize the fluid passing therethrough, wherein all of the first pump, second pump, and third pump are proximate to the second end of the second tube or proximate to the first end of the second tube.

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a medical system according to one embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an extension of the umbilicus of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an umbilicus extension according to another embodiment. [Figure 4A] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a medical system according to another embodiment. [Figure 4B] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a medical system according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Reference will now be made in detail to aspects of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or similar reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. The term "distal" refers to the portion of the device that is furthest from the user when introducing the device into a subject (e.g., a patient), while the term "proximal" refers to the portion of the device that is closest to the user when placing the device into a subject.

[0012] Both the general description above and the detailed description below are exemplary and explanatory only and are not intended to limit the claimed features. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprises," "has," "includes," or other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, whereby a process, method, article, or device comprising a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, article, or device. In the present invention, relative terms such as, for example, "about," "approximately," "generally," and "generally" are used to indicate a possible variation of ±10% in a stated value or characteristic.

[0013] Embodiments of the present invention may solve one or more problems in the art, but the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims, not the ability to solve any particular problem.

[0014] The present disclosure relates to a medical system that includes a medical device, a medical instrument supporting the device, and an extension between the device and the instrument. The extension extends the connection between the medical device and the instrument, allowing a user to more effectively reposition or manipulate the medical device (such as the umbilicus of a scope). The extension can increase the range of motion of the scope, allowing for more efficient and / or effective procedures.

[0015] 1, a medical system 5 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The medical system 5 may include a medical device 10, a medical device support instrument such as a tower 20, and an umbilicus extension 50 extending between the device 10 and the tower 20. The medical device 10 is not particularly limited. The device 10 may be, by way of example, any scope (e.g., bronchoscope, duodenoscope, endoscope, colonoscope, ureteroscope, etc.), catheter, tool, instrument, etc. having a shaft / catheter 12 extending distally from a handle 14 and an umbilicus 16 extending proximally from the handle towards the tower 20.

[0016] Shaft 12 is not limited to any suitable flexible shaft configured to traverse a body lumen during a procedure. Shaft 12 may include at least one lumen (not shown) extending longitudinally from handle 14 to the distal end of shaft 12. The lumen or lumen(s) may be for receiving any number of additional devices, fluids, or bodily substances, such as a scope, tools, instruments, cables, air, water, suction, tissue, stones, or the like.

[0017] Similarly, the handle 14 is also not particularly limited and may be any suitable medical device handle. The handle 14 may include at least one element, such as, for example, knobs 142, 144 for operating or controlling the medical device, or any tool or device associated with the medical device. Additionally, the handle 14 may include at least one port (e.g., ports 143, 145, 147) in fluid communication with the lumen (including at least one working channel) of the shaft 12. For example, the port 143 may receive any suitable accessory device that may extend distally through the working channel of the shaft 12 toward the distal end of the device. The ports 145 and 147 may include air / water and suction valves for controlling the flow of air / water and suction through the corresponding channels of the shaft 12. The handle 14 may further include an additional port 149 connected to the umbilicus portion 16, which receives air / water and suction from the umbilicus portion 16 and serves to transmit electrical signals (including light, power, and image data) between the device 10 and the tower 20 via the umbilicus portion 16 and the extension portion 50.

[0018] Umbilicus 16 is also not limited to any suitable flexible elongate member or tube configured to extend between device 10 and tower 20. As discussed above, first end 161 of umbilicus 16 may be connected (e.g., permanently) to a port (e.g., port 149) of handle 14. The manner in which umbilicus 16 engages port 149 is not limited to any particular manner. The umbilicus 16 may include a proximal connector 162 that may be configured to engage directly (without the extension 50) or indirectly (via the extension 50) with a portion of the tower 20 to enable the device 10 to access sources of, for example, air, water (or any other fluid), suction, power, etc., or to connect to image processing and / or observation equipment, such as light and image sensor data. For example, the proximal end of the proximal connector 162 may include a first connecting feature (not shown) configured to electrically engage a first corresponding connecting feature (not shown) on the tower 20, which may enable transmission of data and / or signals between elements of the tower 20 (e.g., a light source and / or processor) and cables extending through the device 10 and electronic components of the device 10, such as circuit boards, image sensors, and lights. Additionally, the proximal end of the proximal connector 162 may also include a second connection mechanism (not shown) configured to be in fluid communication with a second corresponding connection mechanism (e.g., gas source 28) on the tower 20, which may fluidly connect the gas source 28 with individual passageways extending throughout the umbilicus portion 16. It should be noted that the proximal connector 162 may also include one or more protruding ports / inlets that may be in fluid communication with individual passageways of the umbilicus portion 16.

[0019] However, as described throughout this disclosure, the proximal connector 162 of the umbilicus 16 may also be configured to connect to a distal end of the extension 50, which may engage the tower 20, thereby extending the connection between the tower 20 and the device 10 (i.e., the extension 50 and the umbilicus 16). Thus, in view of the foregoing, the connection mechanism / element at the proximal end of the extension 50 may mirror the connection mechanism / element at the proximal end of the proximal connector 162, and similarly, the connection mechanism / element at the distal end of the extension 50 may mirror the connection mechanism / element of the tower 20. This may allow the system 5, with or without the extension 50, to not require any alternative or additional mechanisms to accommodate inconsistent connection mechanisms between the tower 20 and the proximal connector 162.

[0020] The umbilicus 16 may include at least one passageway (not shown) for housing devices and / or wiring, for example, for imaging and illumination components, which may be in communication with elements of the extension 50, the handle 14, and the shaft 12 of the medical device 10, such as the port 149, the working channel(s) of the shaft 12, etc. The umbilicus 16 may further include at least one fluid passageway (not shown), and in some embodiments multiple fluid passageways, for receiving fluid, such as air, water, or vacuum, from the tower 20. Thus, each fluid passageway, such as an air passageway, a water passageway, a suction passageway, etc., may be in fluid communication with elements of the extension 50, elements of the proximal connector 162 as described above, the handle 14, and the shaft 12 of the medical device 10.

[0021] The tower 20 is also not particularly limited. The tower 20 may be any suitable equipment tower configured to provide a vacuum / suction source (e.g., suction source 22), a water source or other liquid source (e.g., water source 26), and an air / blow source (e.g., gas source 28 (e.g., air source, or CO2 source, as another example)) to the device 10. As used throughout this disclosure, "air" may generally refer to gases that may be used for blowing or pressurizing purposes, such as air, CO2, etc. Additionally, the tower 20 may include a light source, an image processor, and additional electrical auxiliary equipment (e.g., a display), such as electronics 24, configured to interface with the device 10. The tower 20 may include pumps (not shown) associated with each of the suction source 22, water source 26, and gas source 28, thereby enabling the delivery of the aforementioned suction / fluids toward the device 10 through the extension 50. Further, it is noted that any one of the aforementioned sources 22, 24, 26, and 28 may include any suitable outlet or connection mechanism (not shown), which may engage with a first end of accessory tubing (e.g., accessory tubes 621, 623) at the proximal end of the extension 50 or directly engage with a connection mechanism (e.g., connectors 542, 544 in FIG. 2). The tower 20 may further include additional equipment and / or devices (e.g., monitor(s), tubing(s), cable(s), etc. (not shown)) as may be appropriate. Furthermore, the manner in which the tower 20 and its various sources, equipment, etc. are arranged is not particularly limited. For example, a "tower" may refer to a vertical arrangement of components / equipment used to support the device 10, but the arrangement of the components / equipment may be in any suitable manner and the "tower" is not limited to a particular arrangement.

[0022] The extension 50 is a flexible elongated feature / member / shaft / tube including a first end 51 (i.e., proximal end) and a second end 52 (i.e., distal end). The length of the extension 50 is not particularly limited and can be any suitable length, for example, about 6 feet (1.8288 meters) to about 30 feet (9.144 meters). As shown in FIG. 1, the first end 51 can engage one or more elements of the tower 20 (e.g., electronics 24), and the second end 52 can engage the second end 162 of the umbilicus 16. Thus, the extension 50 can extend between the umbilicus 16 and the tower 20, thereby extending the connection between the device 10 and the tower 20. Such extension may increase the range of motion of device 10 and allow for more effective manipulation of additional devices or equipment (such as a boom arm) configured to reposition or manipulate umbilicus 16 and extension 50 in an attempt to further increase the range of motion of device 10. In other examples, multiple extensions may be interconnected or coupled via any suitable connection means to further extend the connection between device 10 and tower 20. It is noted that the material of extension 50 is not particularly limited and may be any suitable material that is flexible and suitable for fluid delivery to and from a patient.

[0023] The extension 50 may include one or more channels (e.g., channels 531, 533, 535, 537) that extend throughout the entire extension 50 or at least a portion thereof. Additionally, the extension 50 may include any number of connection mechanisms, inlets, outlets, etc., each of which may engage with the umbilicus 16, the tower 20, or an accessory tubing or catheter (e.g., tubes 613, 615, 617, 621, 623). Each of the aforementioned connection mechanisms, inlets, and outlets may include a passageway that communicates with one or more channels (e.g., channels 531, 533, 535, 537) that extend throughout the extension 50. Each of the channels 531, 533, 535, and 537 may be configured to provide passage for electrical cables and / or electrical bundles, air, suction, and water for irrigation, respectively.

[0024] First Channel 531 For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the extension 50 includes a first connector 542, a second connector 546, and a first channel 531 extending therebetween. The first connector 542 protrudes proximally from the first end 51, but is not limited thereto. The first connector 542 may be any suitable connector configured to engage with a corresponding connection mechanism (not shown) that may be present on an element of the tower 20 (shown in FIG. 1), without being limited thereto. For example, the first connector 542 may be an electrical connector (or electrical connectors) configured to engage with an electrical connection mechanism (or electrical connection mechanisms) present on the electronic device 24 (shown in FIG. 1) and thereby establish an electrical connection(s) (e.g., an electrical contact connection). The first connector 542 also connects with one or more cables or electrical bundles (not shown) (e.g., fiber optic cables) that extend through the first channel 532 toward the second connector 546 to communicate camera signals, electrical signals, light, data, etc.

[0025] The second connector 546 is recessed inwardly proximally from the second end 52, but is not limited thereto. The second connector 546 is also not particularly limited and may be any suitable connector (e.g., female connector) configured to engage with a corresponding connection mechanism (not shown) (e.g., male connector) that may be present on the proximal connector 162 of the umbilicus 16 (shown in FIG. 1). As discussed above, the second connector 546 may include a passageway connecting the first channel 531 with a separate lumen (not shown) extending through the umbilicus 16 and the device 10. Additionally, as discussed above, the first connector 542 may be the same as or similar to the corresponding connection mechanism present on the proximal end of the proximal connector 162, and the second connector 546 may be the same as or similar to the corresponding connection mechanism present on the electronics 24.

[0026] The first channel 531 is not particularly limited and may be of any suitable dimensions that provide a passageway for one or more cables, electrical bundles, etc. that transmit the camera signal, light, data, etc. from the electronics 24 of the tower 20 to the device 10. It is noted that the first channel 531 may further include a signal booster 731 that engages the one or more cables and / or electrical bundles. The signal booster 731 is not particularly limited and may be any suitable booster (e.g., coaxial cable, amplifier, etc.) configured to boost or enhance the signal strength (e.g., camera signal). The location of the signal booster 731 along the length of the first channel 531 is also not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the signal booster 731 may be located within a distal portion of the first channel 531. Considering that the presence of the extension 50 in the medical system 5 requires a longer transmission path than a standard umbilicus, the signal booster 731 can help maintain signal strength and fidelity throughout the connection between the tower 20 and the device 10 (i.e., the extension 50 and the umbilicus 16). Note that the signal booster 731 may or may not include a control mechanism, as the signal booster 731 may be turned on or off according to the components of the electronics 24. In other exemplary embodiments in which the device 10 includes multiple imaging devices or cameras and corresponding imaging streams (e.g., cables, electrical bundles, etc.), the first channel 531 (or additional channels) may include additional signal boosters 731. For example, each imaging stream between the camera of the device 10 and the electronics 24 may be supplemented by an individual signal booster 731. In such embodiments, each signal booster 731 may be operable (on / off) independently of the other signal boosters. In some other exemplary embodiments in which device 10 includes multiple imaging devices or cameras but includes an integrated imaging stream between the cameras and electronics 24, the integrated imaging stream may be supplemented by a single signal booster 731, similar to, but not limited to, that shown in FIG. 2 (and FIG. 3).

[0027] Second Channel 533 The extension 50 also includes a third connector 544, a recess 548, a first outlet 566, and a second channel 533 extending between the third connector 544 and the first outlet 566. The third connector 544 protrudes proximally from the first end 51, but is not limited thereto. The third connector 544 is not particularly limited and may be any suitable connector configured to engage with a corresponding connection mechanism (not shown) that may be present on an element of the tower 20. For example, the third connector 544 may be a connection mechanism (e.g., a male connector) configured to engage with a corresponding connection mechanism (e.g., a female connector) of the gas source 28 (shown in FIG. 1). As discussed above, the third connector 544 includes a passageway that allows for fluid communication between the gas source 28 and the second channel 533.

[0028] The recess 548 is recessed inwardly in a proximal direction from the second end 52, but is not limited thereto. The recess 548 is not particularly limited and may be any suitable indentation configured to receive or accommodate a corresponding connection mechanism (not shown) that may be present on the proximal connector 162 of the umbilicus 16. The recess 548 is not in communication with the second channel 533 and does not provide a passage of air to the corresponding connection mechanism of the proximal connector 162. Rather, the recess 548 may function to accommodate the presence of said connection mechanism of the proximal connector 162 that would otherwise directly engage the tower 20 without the extension 50. In some examples, the recess 548 may also function as a seal, e.g., a sealing alcove, thereby preventing any leakage of fluid to or from the extension 50 or the proximal connector 162. As described above, the third connector 544 may be the same as or similar to a corresponding connection mechanism present on the proximal end of the proximal connector 162, and the recess 548 may be of the same or similar shape and dimensions as a corresponding connection mechanism present on the gas source 28.

[0029] A first outlet 566 projects radially outward from a distal portion of the extension 50. The first outlet 566 is not limited to any particular outlet and may be any suitable outlet configured to engage with an accessory tubing (e.g., tube 615). As discussed above, the first outlet 566 includes a passageway connecting the second channel 533 with a separate lumen of the tubing 615. The tubing 615 and its engagement with the water lens wash bottle 810 are described in further detail below.

[0030] The second channel 533 is not limited to any particular size and may be of any suitable dimension that provides a passageway for a gas (e.g., air) from the gas source 28. The second channel 533 may also provide a passageway for other fluids, such as CO2, that may be stored in a source different from the gas source 28. It is noted that the second channel 533 may further include an air booster 733. The air booster 733 is not limited to any particular size and may be any suitable booster or pump, i.e., any mechanism that increases the pressure of a fluid (e.g., air, CO2, etc.). Thus, the air booster 733 may be any suitable booster or pump configured to pressurize a fluid passing through the second channel 533. The location of the air booster 733 may be located within a distal portion of the second channel 533 (e.g., proximate to the second (distal) end 52), as shown in FIG. 2. Thus, the air booster 733 may be located at an intermediate location within the connection between the tower 20 and the device 10 (i.e., the extension 50 and the umbilicus 16). Such positioning of the air booster 733 may help maintain a consistent air pressure throughout the connection between the tower 20 and the device 10 because the air booster 733 may maintain the pressure or recover any pressure losses that occur through the extension 50 from the pressure at which the air is initially delivered from the gas source 28.

[0031] The medical system 5 may further include a secondary water source (e.g., lens wash bottle 810) that may be in fluid communication with the gas source 28 to pressurize water for any suitable purpose (e.g., lens cleaning). For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the lens wash bottle 810 may be connected to the tubing 615 and downstream of the air booster 733. The second channel 533 may thus provide a passage of pressurized air to the lens wash bottle 810 through a lumen of the tubing 615 that is coupled to the outlet 566. The lens wash bottle 810 may include any suitable valve or outlet (not shown) to which the tubing 625 may be coupled, thereby allowing pressurized air and water to be delivered via the tubing 625 to a port / inlet (e.g., port 1625) of the proximal connector 162. The tubing 625 may include two or more channels. For example, the tubing 625 may include a first passageway 6252 configured to receive and deliver pressurized air from the lens wash bottle 810 to the proximal connector 162, and a second passageway 6254 configured to receive and deliver pressurized water from the lens wash bottle 810 to the proximal connector 162. A distal or downstream portion of the tubing 625 may branch or split between the first passageway 6252 and the second passageway 6254 such that the first passageway 6252 may be in fluid communication with a first inlet 1625a of the port 1625 and the second passageway 6254 may be in fluid communication with a second inlet 1625b of the port, as shown in FIG. The pressurized air and water may then be routed from a first inlet 1625a and a second inlet 1625b of the port 1625 to separate fluid lumens (e.g., a pressurized water lumen and a pressurized air lumen) of the umbilicus portion 16 and then to one or more channels of the shaft 12.As a result of such a configuration, air from the gas source 28 may be pressurized through the air booster 733 and either 1) exhausted to the atmosphere through the second channel 533, the first passageway 6252, and the individual lumens of the umbilicus 16 at the port 145, or 2) delivered to the shaft 12 through the second channel 533, the first passageway 6252, and the individual lumens of the umbilicus 16 if leakage is prevented by a user input at the port 145, or 3) delivered to the lens cleaning bottle 810 through the second channel 533 if redirected by a user input at the port 145, thereby pressurizing the water in the bottle 810 for lens cleaning purposes. The user may direct the air flow through one of the three options described above by manipulating a valve (not shown) located at the port 145 of the device 10.

[0032] The medical system 5 may also include a second tower, surface, holder, etc. (not shown) configured to hold the lens wash bottle 810 at an intermediate junction between the tower 20 and the device 10. The medical system 5 may further include a control mechanism (not shown) that may activate or control the air booster 733 of the extension 50. For example, the air booster 733 may include a high current cutoff controller that keeps the air booster 733 in an active ("on") state unless a high current is required for the air booster 733. The operating current may be defined between a low current and a high current for two conditions: 1) when the valve or outlet in the port 145 is exhausting pressurized air to the atmosphere, the current requirement may be low, and 2) when the valve or outlet in the port 145 is directing air to pressurize a water lens wash bottle for lens cleaning, the current requirement may be high. Thus, current magnitude values ​​at and between these conditions or thresholds may be when the valve or outlet in port 145 is sending pressurized air to device 10, and such may be when the controller remains "on." It should be noted, however, that the control mechanism for air booster 733 is not limited to the exemplary controller described above, but may be via any suitable means.

[0033] Third Channel 535 The extension 50 also includes a first inlet 552, a second outlet 562, and a third channel 535 extending therebetween. The first inlet 552 projects radially outward from a proximal portion of the extension 50. The first inlet 552 is not particularly limited and may be any suitable inlet configured to engage with an accessory tubing (e.g., tubing 621). As discussed above, the first inlet 552 includes a passageway connecting the third channel 535 with a separate lumen of the tubing 621, which may then connect with an element of the tower 20 (e.g., suction source 22 (shown in FIG. 1)).

[0034] The second outlet 562 projects radially outward from the distal portion of the extension 50. The second outlet 562 is not limited to any particular outlet and may be any suitable outlet configured to engage with an accessory tubing (e.g., tubing 613). As described above, the second outlet 562 may include a passageway connecting the third channel 535 with a separate lumen of the tubing 613, which may then be connected to the device 10 via a port / inlet (e.g., port 1623) of the proximal connector 162 and a separate lumen of the umbilicus 16. Thus, the first inlet 552 and the second outlet 562 may allow fluid communication between the suction source 22 and the device 10.

[0035] The third channel 535 is not limited to any suitable dimension that provides a passageway for suction from the suction source 22. The third channel 535 may further include a suction booster 735. The suction booster 735 is not limited to any suitable booster or pump, i.e., any mechanism that increases the pressure of a fluid. Thus, the suction booster 735 may be any suitable booster or pump configured to apply suction pressure. The location of the suction booster 735 may be located within the distal portion of the third channel 535 (e.g., proximate to the second (distal) end 52), as shown in FIG. 2. Thus, the suction booster 735 may be located at an intermediate position within the connection between the tower 20 and the device 10 (i.e., the extension 50 and the umbilicus 16). Such positioning of the suction booster 735 may help maintain a consistent suction pressure throughout the connection between the tower 20 and the device 10, as the suction booster 735 may maintain the pressure or recover the pressure loss that occurs through the extension 50 from the pressure at which suction from the suction source 22 is initially applied.

[0036] The medical system 5 may further include a control mechanism (not shown) that may activate or control the suction booster 735 of the extension 50. For example, the suction booster 735 may include a high current cutoff controller that keeps the suction booster 735 in an activated ("on") state unless a high current is required from the suction booster 735. A high current may result from suction simply not being used, whereas if suction is used and is directed from the suction source 22 through the third channel 535 to the device 10, a lower current may be required from the suction booster 735 and the suction booster 735 may remain activated. The suction source 22 may be in an "on" state throughout the procedure, and suction may be controlled via a valve (not shown) in the port 147. For example, the valve may be placed in a first position via a user input, in which case the valve may draw some air from the atmosphere but is nominally shut off. This consumes a high current and in this state the suction booster 735 is not needed. The valve may also be placed in a second position via user input where the atmosphere is shut off and a connection is established to draw suction through the shaft 12, which is a relatively low current state in which the suction booster 735 is required. It should be noted, however, that the control mechanism for the suction booster 735 is not limited to the exemplary controller described above and may be via any suitable means.

[0037] 4th Channel 537 The extension 50 also includes a second inlet 554, a third outlet 564, and a fourth channel 537 extending therebetween. The second inlet 554 projects radially outward from a proximal portion of the extension 50. The second inlet 554 is not particularly limited and may be any suitable inlet configured to engage with an accessory tubing (e.g., tubing 623). As discussed above, the second inlet 554 may include a passageway connecting the fourth channel 537 with an individual lumen of the tubing 623, which in turn may connect with an element of the tower 20 (e.g., water source 26 (shown in FIG. 1)).

[0038] The third outlet 564 projects radially outward from the distal portion of the extension 50. The third outlet 564 is not limited to any particular outlet and may be any suitable outlet configured to engage with an accessory tubing (e.g., tubing 617). As described above, the third outlet 564 may include a passageway connecting the fourth channel 537 with a respective lumen of the tubing 617, which may then be connected to the device 10 via a port / inlet (e.g., port 1627) of the proximal connector 162 and a respective lumen of the umbilicus 16. Thus, the second inlet 554 and the third outlet 564 may allow fluid communication between the water source 26 and the device 10.

[0039] The fourth channel 537 is not limited to any suitable dimension that provides a passageway for water from the water source 26. The fourth channel 537 may further include a water booster / fluid booster 737. The water booster 737 is not limited to any suitable booster or pump, i.e., any mechanism that increases the pressure of a fluid. Thus, the water booster 737 may be configured to pressurize the water (or fluid) passing through the water booster 737. The location of the water booster 737 may be located within a distal portion of the fourth channel 537 (e.g., proximate to the second (distal) end 52), as shown in FIG. 2. Thus, the water booster 737 may be located at an intermediate position within the connection between the tower 20 and the device 10 (i.e., the extension 50 and the umbilicus 16). Such positioning of the water booster 737 may help maintain the water flow at a consistent pressure throughout the entire connection between the tower 20 and the device 10, since the water booster 737 may maintain the pressure or recover any pressure loss that occurs through the extension 50 from the pressure at which the water is initially delivered from the water source 26.

[0040] The medical system 5 may further include a control mechanism (not shown) that may activate or control the water booster 737 of the extension 50. For example, a switch, button, or pedal (e.g., foot pedal) may connect to both the water booster 737 and a pump (not shown) engaged with the water source 26 of the tower 20 via any suitable means, (e.g., a Y-cable). Thus, activation of the control mechanism may simultaneously relay a signal to both the pump of the water source 26 and the water booster 737 that enables fluid delivery from the tower 20 to the device 10. In another example, the water booster 737 may include a sensor (e.g., a flow sensor) such that the water booster 737 is turned "on" in an operational state when a flow of water within a certain flow range (greater than no flow, but slower than the rate required to reach the second end 52 of the extension 50 within a useful time frame) is detected. If the flow rate is outside the range, the water booster 737 remains "off" in a non-operational state. However, it should be noted that the control mechanism for the water booster 737 is not limited to the exemplary mechanisms described above, but may be via any suitable means.

[0041] Thus, as shown in FIG. 2 , the extension 50 can have multiple boosters (e.g., air booster 733, suction booster 735, water booster 737) downstream of the connection between the extension 50 and the equipment of the tower 20 proximate the second (distal) end 52 of the extension 50. The extension 50 can further include additional features or accessories. In some examples, the extension 50 can further include one or more seals at the second end 52 to prevent or minimize any leakage of fluids (e.g., water, air) at the second end 52. The seals are not particularly limited and can be bonded to the exterior or interior surface of the extension 50.

[0042] With reference to Figure 3, another embodiment of an extension 50' of a system 5' is described below. Extension 50' is similar in many respects to extension 50. Like reference numbers, e.g., 51' and 51, refer to like parts. Differences between extensions 50' and 50 are further described below.

[0043] Unlike extension 50, air booster 733', suction booster 735', and water booster 737' may be located within the proximal portions of their respective channels, proximate first (proximal) end 51' and tower 20 (shown in FIG. 1). Thus, air booster 733', suction booster 735', and water booster 737' may be located in a proximal position within the connection (i.e., extension 50' and umbilicus 16 (shown in FIG. 1)) between tower 20 and device 10 (shown in FIG. 1). Such upstream positioning of the boosters may require pressurizing the respective fluids and suctions to a greater extent than a typical tower-to-device connection, since additional pressure may be required to transport the respective fluids and suctions throughout the lengthened connection (i.e., extension 50).

[0044] As shown in FIG. 3, the extension 50' includes a second channel 533' extending between the third connector 544' and the proximal outlet 557', as well as a fifth channel 538' and a sixth channel 539' extending between the proximal inlet 556' and the fourth connector 548'.

[0045] The second channel 533' may extend distally from the third connector 544' through the air booster 733' to the proximal outlet 557'. As previously mentioned, the third connector 544' is not particularly limited and may be any suitable connector (e.g., male connector) configured to engage with a corresponding connection mechanism (e.g., female connector) of the gas source 28. The third connector 544' includes a passage that allows fluid communication between the gas source 28 and the second channel 533'. The second channel 533' may extend toward the proximal outlet 557', which may protrude radially outward at a proximal portion of the extension 50'. The proximal outlet 557' is not particularly limited and may be any suitable outlet configured to engage with at least one accessory tubing (e.g., tubing 629'). The proximal outlet 557' may include a passage that connects the second channel 533' with a separate lumen of the tubing 629'. Tubing 629' may connect to the lens washing bottle 810' to provide a passage for pressurized air to the lens washing bottle 810'.

[0046] The extension 50' further includes a fifth channel 538' extending between the proximal inlet 556' and the fourth connector 548'. The proximal inlet 556' may further include a first passageway connecting the fifth channel 538' with a separate lumen of the tubing 624' engaged with the proximal inlet 556'. The tubing 624' may also connect with the lens wash bottle 810' to provide a passageway of pressurized fluid (e.g., pressurized air) from the lens wash bottle 810' through the lumen of the tubing 624' to the fifth channel 538'. The fourth connector 548' is not particularly limited and may be any suitable connector (e.g., female connector) configured to engage with a corresponding connection mechanism (e.g., male connector) of the proximal connector 162. The fourth connector 548' includes a passageway that allows fluid communication between the fifth channel 538' and a separate lumen of the umbilicus 16. Thus, pressurized air from the lens cleaning bottle 810' passes through the fifth channel 538' and through the passage of the fourth connector 548' to the lumen of the umbilicus 16.

[0047] The extension 50' further includes a sixth channel 539' extending between the proximal inlet 556' and the distal outlet 566'. The proximal inlet 556' may further include a second passageway connecting the sixth channel 539' with a separate lumen of the tubing 622' that engages the proximal inlet 556'. The tubing 622' may also connect with the lens wash bottle 810' to provide a passage of pressurized fluid (e.g., pressurized water) from the lens wash bottle 810' through the lumen of the tubing 622' to the sixth channel 539'. The distal outlet 566' projects radially outward from a distal portion of the extension 50'. The distal outlet 566' is not particularly limited and may be any suitable outlet configured to engage at least one accessory tubing (e.g., tubing 619') that may engage an inlet / port (not shown) of the proximal connector 162. The distal outlet 566' includes a passageway connecting the sixth channel 539' with a respective lumen of the tubing 619'. Thus, pressurized water from the lens wash bottle 810' passes through the sixth channel 539', through the passageway of the distal outlet 566' and the lumen of the tubing 619', to the lumen of the umbilicus 16.

[0048] As a result of such a configuration, air from the gas source 28 (or CO2 source) may be pressurized through the air booster 733' and either 1) exhausted to the atmosphere through the fifth channel 538' and a separate lumen in the umbilicus 16 at the port 145, or 2) delivered to the shaft 12 through the fifth channel 538' and a separate lumen in the umbilicus 16 if leakage is prevented by a user input at the port 145, or 3) delivered to the lens cleaning bottle 810' through the second channel 533 and tubing 629' if redirected by a user input at the port 145, thereby pressurizing the water in the bottle 810' for lens cleaning purposes. The user may direct the air flow through one of the three options described above by manipulating a valve (not shown) located at the port 145 of the device 10. Water from the lens washing bottle 810' may be routed towards the device 10' via a sixth channel 539' which may be in fluid communication with the tubing 619', then the proximal connector 162, the individual lumens of the umbilicus 16, and the device 10. Given the proximal location of the air booster 733' in the extension 50', as well as the proximal outlet 556', the lens washing bottle 810' may be on or coupled to the tower 20 (not shown in FIG. 3) in the medical system 5'. This may minimize infrastructure compared to the system 5 shown in FIG. 2, as the system 5 may further require a second tower, surface, holder, etc. to hold the lens washing bottle 810 at an intermediate junction between the tower 20 and the device 10.

[0049] As described above, first end 51', second end 52', first connector 542', second connector 546', channel 531, signal booster 731, first inlet 552', tubing 623', second outlet 562', tubing 613', third channel 535', second inlet 554', tubing 621', third outlet 564', tubing 617', and fourth channel 537' are the same as or similar to the corresponding elements shown in FIG. 2.

[0050] 4A-4B, another embodiment of an extension 50'' of a medical system 5'' is described below. The extension 50'' is similar in many respects to the extension 50. Like reference numerals, e.g., 50'' and 50, refer to like parts.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a trap 930 may be coupled to the extension 50''. The trap 930 may be any suitable compartment or housing including a cavity 931 that may be configured to receive and hold fluids, tissue, matter, objects, stones, etc., drawn from a patient via suction. The trap 930 further includes a first leg defining a first lumen 932 and an adjacent second leg defining a second lumen 934, both lumens 932 and 934 in fluid communication with the cavity 931. The first lumen 932 and the second lumen 934 extend perpendicular to the length of the cavity 931 and extend through a port 582'' of the extension 50'', as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, thereby coupling the trap 930 to the extension 50''.

[0052] The port 582'' includes a pair of adjacent openings or passageways. Each of the aforementioned openings may be configured to receive a leg of the trap 930 such that the first lumen 932 and the second lumen 934 may extend radially inward of the extension 50'' toward the third channel 535''. The port 582'' may be disposed on a distal portion of the extension 50'', proximate the second end 52''. However, the location of the port 582'' is not limited thereto.

[0053] The third channel 535'' can extend between a proximal inlet (not shown) and the outlet 522''. Unlike the third channel 535 of the extension 50, the third channel 535'' can include multiple segments (e.g., a first portion 1535'', a branch connector 1640, and a second portion 1537''), all of which are aligned with one another, thereby defining a suction channel between the tower 20 and the device 10.

[0054] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, the first portion 1535″ includes a branch that extends radially outward toward the first opening 5821″ of the port 582″. The branch connector 1640 may be a three-way connection mechanism including a first branch 1642, a second branch 1644, and a third branch 1646. The branch connector 1640 may be rotatable about 90 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise about a central axis (i.e., a point where the first branch 1642, the second branch 1644, and the third branch 1646 branch away from each other). Thus, the branch connector 1640 may transition between a first position as shown in FIG. 4A and a second position as shown in FIG. 4B via rotation. The manner in which the connector 1640 may be rotated is not particularly limited and may be by any suitable mechanism.

[0055] In the first position, the first branch 1642 may be in fluid communication with the distal end of the first portion 1535'' and the second branch 1644 may be in fluid communication with the proximal end of the second portion 1537'', while the third branch 1646 extends radially inward of the extension 50'' and is not in fluid communication with the elements of the third channel 533'. Note that when the connector 1640 is in the first position, the suction path may proceed from the scope 10 through the third channel 535'', bypassing the trap 930.

[0056] In the second position, the third branch 1646 may be in fluid communication with the proximal end of the second portion 1537″, and the second branch 1644 may be in fluid communication with the second lumen 932 of the trap 930. Meanwhile, the first branch 1642 extends radially inward of the extension 50″ and is not in fluid communication with the elements of the third channel 535″. When the connector 1640 is in the second position, a suction path may proceed from the scope 10 to the trap 930 (via the second portion 1537″, the connector 1640, and the first lumen 932) and from the trap 930 to the tower 20 (via the second lumen 934 and the first portion 1535″). Thus, a user may transition the branch connector 1640 to the aforementioned second position to collect material aspirated from the patient in the trap 930.

[0057] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed apparatus without departing from the scope of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with the true spirit and scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A health care system comprising: a scope including a shaft, a handle, and a first tube extending from the handle; a medical device including a processor and a first fluid source; a second tube, a first end including a first connector engageable with the processor and a second connector engageable with the first fluid source; a second end including a third connector engageable with the first tube; a first channel configured to communicate data from the processor to the scope, the first channel extending between the first connector and the third connector; a second tube including a second channel configured to convey fluid from the first fluid source to the scope, the second channel extending between the second connector and a first fluid outlet of the second tube; The medical system, wherein the second channel includes a first pump configured to pressurize fluid passing through the second channel, the first pump being near either the second end of the second tube or the first end of the second tube.

2. 2. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the first channel includes a booster configured to boost transmission of data from the processor to the scope, the booster being closer to the second end of the second tube than to the first end of the second tube.

3. The medical system of claim 1 , wherein the first pump is closer to the second end of the second tube than to the first end of the second tube.

4. 4. The medical system of claim 3, wherein the first pump is configured to at least restore a loss of pressure of a first fluid initially transported from the first fluid source to the second channel.

5. a secondary water source downstream of the first pump, the secondary water source disposed at a junction between the first end and the second end of the second tube; 4. The medical system of claim 3, wherein the first fluid source is air, the secondary water source is in fluid communication with the second channel, and the first pump is configured to pressurize the secondary water source.

6. The medical system of claim 1 , wherein the first pump is closer to the first end of the second tube than to the second end of the second tube.

7. a secondary water source downstream of the first pump, the secondary water source being co-located with the medical device; 7. The medical system of claim 6, wherein the first fluid source is air, the secondary water source is in fluid communication with the second channel, and the first pump is configured to pressurize the secondary water source.

8. the medical device further includes a second fluid source; 8. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the second tube further includes a third channel configured to transport fluid from the second fluid source, the third channel being in fluid communication with the second fluid source, and the third channel including a second pump configured to pressurize fluid passing through the third channel.

9. the third channel extends between a first fluid inlet of the second tube and a second fluid outlet of the second tube; 9. The medical system of claim 8, further comprising a first tubing extending between the first fluid inlet and the second fluid source, and a second tubing extending between the second fluid outlet and the scope.

10. the medical device further includes a third fluid source; 10. The medical system of claim 9, wherein the second tube further includes a fourth channel configured to carry fluid from the third fluid source, the fourth channel in fluid communication with the third fluid source, and the fourth channel includes a third pump configured to pressurize fluid passing through the third channel.

11. the fourth channel extends between a second fluid inlet of the second tube and a third fluid outlet of the second tube; 11. The medical system of claim 10, further comprising a third tubing extending between the second fluid inlet and the third fluid source, and a fourth tubing extending between the third fluid outlet and the scope.

12. The medical system of claim 11 , wherein the second fluid source is water and the third fluid source is suction.

13. The medical system of claim 11 , wherein the first pump, the second pump, and the third pump are closer to the second end of the second tube than to the first end of the second tube.

14. The medical system of claim 11 , wherein the first pump, the second pump, and the third pump are closer to the second end of the second tube than to the first end of the second tube.

15. 8. The medical system of claim 1, wherein the second end of the second tube includes a seal configured to prevent fluid from the first fluid source from leaking out of the second end.

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