Fluid flow diverter for endoscopes

Abstract

An endoscope with a fluid flow diverter is provided. The endoscope includes an endoscope body and a tool port cap assembly defining an opening to an instrument passageway through the endoscope body for inserting an instrument. The tool port cap assembly includes an upper tool port portion, a lower tool port portion, at least one fluid flow channel, and a diverter seal disposed between the upper and lower tool port portions. The diverter seal is configured to divert fluid flowing forward through the instrument passageway (i.e., from distal to proximal) into the fluid flow channel. It is also disclosed that an endoscope handle may have a primary irrigation channel and an auxiliary irrigation channel integrally incorporated therein.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] cross reference This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 381,954, filed November 2, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to endoscopes. To minimize the invasiveness of endoscopic procedures, endoscopes are provided with ports for inserting and advancing instruments into the body through instrument channels and insertion tubes. During procedures, bodily fluids and irrigation fluids often backflow into the instrument channel and splash onto the clinician's face or upper body through tool ports. For example, in the field of urology, bodily fluids such as urine may backflow and splash onto the clinician's face. To keep the operating room as sterile as possible and to prevent splashing of fluids on the surgeon, it is desirable to prevent splashing of fluids through tool ports.

[0003] Thus, there is a need for improvement in this area. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] A fluid flow diverter for medical devices, such as endoscopes, is disclosed, and more particularly, but not exclusively, for small diameter, two-way or four-way bending endoscopes, such as cholangioscopes, ureteroscopes, cystoscopes, and bronchoscopes.

[0005] The endoscope assembly may include an endoscope handle and an endoscope shaft defining an instrument channel extending therethrough. The endoscope assembly may further include a tool port cap assembly defining an opening for insertion and / or removal of an instrument (e.g., a laser fiber, a retrieval basket, a guidewire, and / or other tools known for endoscopic use) into the instrument channel (e.g., a flow passage).

[0006] The tool port cap assembly may include an upper tool port portion and a lower tool port portion defining at least one fluid flow channel (e.g., defined by the structure of the lower tool port portion). The tool port cap assembly may include a diverter seal disposed between the upper and lower tool port portions. The diverter seal may be compressed between the upper and lower tool port portions. The diverter seal may occlude at least a portion of the instrument channel to divert fluid flowing backward through the instrument channel (i.e., along a distal-to-proximal direction) into at least one fluid flow channel of the upper and / or lower tool port portions.

[0007] Preferably, at least one fluid flow channel is open to atmospheric pressure (i.e., the pressure of the environment surrounding the endoscope). For example, at least one fluid flow channel may open to the external environment and / or to an interior of the endoscope that is in fluid communication with the external environment (e.g., not sealed). In some examples, at least one fluid flow channel in the upper tool port portion and / or the lower tool port portion extends away from the proximal end of the tool port cap assembly (i.e., away from the surgeon operating the endoscope).

[0008] The upper surface of the lower tool port section may define an opening to the instrument channel. At least one fluid flow channel may be defined in the upper surface of the lower tool port section. A portion of the at least one fluid flow channel may extend transversely to the longitudinal axis of the lower tool port section. Additionally, a diverter seal may contact the upper surface of the lower tool port section. The diverter seal may occlude at least a portion of the instrument channel to divert fluid flowing backward through the instrument channel (i.e., along a distal-to-proximal direction) into the at least one fluid flow channel.

[0009] The endoscope may further include seals (such as, but not limited to, hemostatic valves, Tuohy Borst valves, compression glands, split septa, etc.) disposed along the instrument passageway (e.g., flow path).

[0010] The upper and lower tool port sections may be connected by a snap fit, an interference fit, a friction fit, and / or other suitable connecting means.

[0011] Also disclosed is an endoscope assembly including an endoscope body. The endoscope may further include a tool port cap assembly defining an opening to an instrument passageway (e.g., a flow channel) for inserting an instrument (e.g., a tool). The tool port cap assembly may include a seal (e.g., by way of example and not limitation, a hemostatic valve, a Touhy-Borst valve, a compression gland, a split septum, etc.) with a body defining a portion of the instrument passageway extending therethrough. The tool port cap assembly may further include a tool port cap defining an opening to the instrument passageway.

[0012] The endoscope may include a diverter seal disposed between the seal and the tool port cap. The diverter seal may contact an upper surface of the seal or may be spaced apart from the upper surface. Preferably, the diverter seal is positioned to occlude at least a portion of the instrument passageway to direct fluid flowing backward through the instrument passageway (i.e., along a distal-to-proximal direction) into at least one fluid flow channel. The diverter seal may include a hemostatic valve, a Touhy-Borst valve, a compression gland, and / or a split septum, to name a few.

[0013] At least one fluid flow channel communicates with the region between the seal and the diverter seal. For example, the upper surface of the body of the seal may define at least one fluid flow channel, and / or the lower surface of the diverter seal may define at least one fluid flow channel. A portion of the fluid flow channel may have an axis that transverses the longitudinal axis of the flow path. Preferably, the fluid flow channel is open to the atmosphere.

[0014] Further disclosed is an endoscope assembly including an endoscope body. The endoscope assembly further includes a first (e.g., main) fluid channel defining a first (main) fluid flow path at least partially through the endoscope body. The endoscope assembly also includes a second (e.g., auxiliary) fluid channel defining a second (auxiliary) fluid flow path at least partially through the endoscope body. The first and second fluid flow paths may merge into a third fluid flow path.

[0015] The first and second fluid flow paths may enter a fitting, such as a manifold fitting. Both fluid flow paths may then exit the manifold fitting (e.g., through a single fluid flow path or a third fluid flow path). The first fluid flow path may be an integrated irrigation channel. The first fluid flow path may be controlled (e.g., partially and / or completely open and / or closed) by a control (e.g., a button) on the endoscope body. This control is disclosed in detail in US 2023 / 0309802 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The fluid flowing through the first fluid flow path may be primarily saline. The proximal end of the second fluid flow path may include a valve (e.g., a syringe-actuated valve) for bolus lavage or injection of contrast agent (e.g., radiocontrast agent).

[0016] The aspects and embodiments of the invention described in the summary section below may be used alone or in combination with each other.

[0017] Further aspects, objects, features, aspects, benefits, advantages and embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description and accompanying drawings set forth below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an endoscope handle with an umbilical cord and an insertion tube. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an endoscope handle with an umbilical cord and an insertion tube. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an endoscope handle with an umbilical cord and an insertion tube.

[0019] [Figure 2] FIG. 1B is a side view of the top of an endoscope handle (e.g., FIG. 1A).

[0020] [Figure 3] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of an endoscope handle (e.g., FIG. 1A).

[0021] [Figure 4] FIG. 12 is a side view of a fluidic assembly including two perfusion channels and a tool port channel.

[0022] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded side view of a portion of the fluid flow assembly of FIG. 4.

[0023] [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid flow assembly of FIG.

[0024] [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a side view of the tool port cap assembly.

[0025] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the tool port cap assembly of FIG. 7.

[0026] [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the tool port cap assembly of FIG.

[0027] [Figure 10] FIG. 8 is a top view of the tool port cap assembly of FIG. 7.

[0028] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] To facilitate understanding of the principles of the disclosure, the following description will be made with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and will use specific language. It should be understood, however, that no limitation to the scope of the disclosure is intended. Modifications and further improvements of the described embodiments, as well as other applications of the principles disclosed herein, are intended to be within the scope of ordinary skill in the art. While one embodiment of the present disclosure has been shown in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that features unrelated to the present disclosure may not be illustrated for the sake of clarity.

[0030] In this specification and claims, singular terms include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to "a device" or "the device" includes one or more devices and equivalents thereof. In addition, directional terms such as "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," and the like are used merely as a convenience to facilitate understanding of the illustrated embodiments and are not intended to limit the features described, illustrated, or claimed to any particular direction or orientation.

[0031] As used herein, "proximal" refers to the end or direction that is associated with a physician or other practitioner during operation of the device, and "distal" refers to the opposite end (i.e., the patient / treatment end). The drawings referenced herein are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, as defined by the claims. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0032] The present disclosure relates to an improved endoscope incorporating a fluid flow diverter that prevents fluids such as saline or urine from back-spraying toward the operator during irrigation or upon tool removal.

[0033] In one embodiment of an endoscopic tool cap assembly, a cap assembly having a fluid flow channel incorporates a seal to divert antegrade fluid (i.e., distal-to-proximal flow) through the tool passageway away from the surgeon during irrigation and tool removal.

[0034] Also disclosed is an integrated main irrigation channel (e.g., for saline) controlled by a control (e.g., a button) on the handle, and an auxiliary irrigation channel with a valve (e.g., a syringe-actuated valve) used for bolus irrigation and injection of contrast agent (e.g., radioactive contrast agent).

[0035] The present disclosure is applicable to any small diameter endoscope capable of two-way or four-way bending, including, but not limited to, cholangioscopes, ureteroscopes, cystoscopes, and bronchoscopes.

[0036] More specifically, the tool port cap is configured with an upper and lower portion, with a diverter seal disposed between the upper and lower portions of the tool port cap. The upper and / or lower portions of the tool port cap define one or more fluid flow channels, allowing leakage into the area between the seal and the diverter seal (e.g., leakage from the seal) to flow away from the surgeon. Furthermore, an irrigation channel, combining a primary and auxiliary perfusion channel, is also incorporated into the design and disclosed as an improvement over conventional endoscopes. The primary irrigation channel can be directly controlled by the surgeon, such as with a push button, rather than operated by an assistant via a stopcock. The auxiliary irrigation channel has the advantage of providing a secondary connection for bolus flushing or contrast injection without disconnecting the primary irrigation source.

[0037] 1A-1C show three endoscope assemblies 100, i.e., endoscope assemblies 100A, 100B, and 100C. Each endoscope assembly includes a handle body 102, i.e., handle bodies 102A, 102B, and 102C. Each endoscope assembly may include a differently designed tool port cap assembly 200, i.e., tool port assemblies 200A, 200B, and 200C. Unless otherwise specified, tool port assemblies 200A, 200B, and 200C have the general structure and function described throughout this specification in connection with tool port cap assembly 200. Additionally, each endoscope assembly may include an umbilical 104 connected to a pump (e.g., a peristaltic pump) for fluid supply or evacuation, an insertion tube 106 for insertion into a patient's body, and a second tube 108.

[0038] 2 is a side view of the upper portion 110 of the endoscope assembly, including the handle body. As shown, the tool port may be located at the upper portion of the endoscope assembly. In other embodiments, a second tool port 112 may be located lower and / or more distally on the handle body, as shown in FIG. 1C.

[0039] 3 and 4 show a first flow path 114 and a second flow path 118 having portions disposed within the handle. In some embodiments, the flow paths are defined by the internal structure (e.g., walls and / or surfaces) of the endoscope handle. In other embodiments, the flow paths are defined by one or more separate components, such as a first tube 116 (e.g., flexible tubing and / or primary irrigation tubing) defining the first flow path and a second tube 108 (e.g., flexible tubing and / or secondary irrigation tubing) defining the second flow path.

[0040] In one embodiment, a first tube 116 defining a first fluid flow path and a second tube 108 defining a second fluid flow path extend to a fitting 120, such as a manifold fitting as shown. The manifold fitting may have a proximal portion 122 and a distal portion 124. In one embodiment, the two fluid flow paths enter the fitting between the proximal and distal ends of the fitting. Within the fitting, the two fluid flow paths may merge (e.g., mix) into a common fluid flow path. For example, the two fluid flow paths may merge into a separate, third fluid flow path 126. The fluid flow paths exit the distal end of the fitting through this third fluid flow path 126. The first and second fluid flow paths may merge into a single flow path by any suitable means, such as a T-type fitting. Alternatively, the first and second fluid flow paths may remain separate and not merge until the distal end of the insertion tube.

[0041] As shown and described below, the tool port cap assembly 200 defines an opening to an instrument passageway, which may include a third fluid flow path. The instrument tube 128 may define the instrument passageway. The instrument passageway extends from the opening in the tool port cap assembly to the distal end of the insertion tube, allowing various instruments to be inserted into and extend through the instrument tube and into the patient's body during a procedure. The instrument passageway may be the same as the tool channel.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first fluid flow path is controlled (e.g., partially and / or completely open and / or closed) by a control (e.g., a button) on the handle body. Such an arrangement is disclosed in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2023 / 0309802 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In other embodiments, the control may be located remotely from the handle body. The fluid flowing through the first fluid flow path is often primarily saline. In similar or other embodiments, a valve (e.g., a syringe-actuated valve, not shown) may be included at the proximal end of the second tubing (e.g., auxiliary irrigation tubing). The auxiliary irrigation channel has the advantage of providing a second connection for bolus wash or contrast injection without disconnecting the main irrigation source.

[0043] FIG. 4 shows an example of the tool port cap assembly, first tube, second tube, and instrument tube without the handle body.

[0044] 5-11 , the tool port cap assembly will be described in more detail. The tool port cap assembly 200 may include an upper tool port portion 220, a lower tool port portion 240, and a diverter seal 202. The tool port cap assembly may include a proximal end 204 and a distal end 206. The tool port cap assembly 200 may define a longitudinal axis 226.

[0045] The upper tool port portion 220 may define an opening 222 to an instrument passageway (e.g., an instrument tube, a third fluid flow path) extending through the body of the endoscope for inserting an instrument (e.g., a tool) through the upper and lower tool port portions along the longitudinal axis.

[0046] Preferably, the upper and / or lower tool port sections define at least one fluid flow channel 224 to divert unintended fluid flow away from the medical personnel during irrigation or tool removal. Any number of fluid flow channels 224 may be used. In one embodiment, four fluid flow channels are used.

[0047] The lower tool port section may include an upper end 242 and a lower end 244, with the upper end having an upper surface 246. The upper surface of the lower tool port section may define an opening to the instrument passageway. The lower tool port section may have a body 250.

[0048] The upper surface 246 may define at least one fluid flow channel portion 248 therein. At least a portion of the at least one fluid flow channel 248 may extend transversely relative to the longitudinal axis 226 of the tool port cap assembly. In some embodiments, a first portion 262 of the at least one fluid flow channel may extend transversely relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the at least one fluid flow channel extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A second portion 264 of the at least one fluid flow channel may extend downward (e.g., toward the distal end). In some embodiments, the transition from the first portion to the second portion defines a gradual curve. In other embodiments, the transition from the first portion to the second portion defines one or more distinct angles.

[0049] The one or more fluid flow channels 224 of the upper tool port portion may be in fluid communication with the one or more fluid flow channels 248 of the lower tool port portion when the upper and lower tool port portions are connected. Preferably, when connected, the one or more fluid flow channels of the upper and lower tool port portions are in fluid communication and configured to direct fluid flow toward the distal end of the tool port cap assembly, thereby directing fluid away from the opening 222 of the upper tool port portion.

[0050] In some embodiments, the upper and lower tool port portions may be connected by a snap fit, an interference fit, and / or a friction fit. Any other known mechanisms for connecting the upper and lower portions may be used instead or in combination with these or other connection mechanisms.

[0051] In one exemplary embodiment, the upper tool port portion may include a hollow interior space 225 defined by an inner surface 227. The inner surface 227 may include a protrusion 228 that projects inwardly toward the interior space 225 of the upper tool port portion 220. In one embodiment, the protrusion extends transversely to the longitudinal axis 226.

[0052] The body 250 of the lower tool port section 240 may define portions having different cross-sectional dimensions. For example, a lower portion of the body 250 may have an outer surface 251 defining a first cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter), and an upper portion may have an outer surface 253 defining a second cross-sectional dimension (e.g., second diameter) that is larger than the first cross-sectional dimension. As will be appreciated, the transition from the outer surface 251 to the outer surface 253 may define a step 255. In one example, the step 255 extends transversely to the longitudinal axis 226. When the lower tool port section is at least partially located within the interior space 225, the protrusion 228 may be disposed distally (e.g., below) and / or contact the step 255 to hold the upper tool port section relative to the lower tool port section.

[0053] The lower tool port section may be configured to be rotationally limited or rotationally fixed relative to the upper tool port section. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , the upper surface 246 may include one or more protrusions 270 that are received by one or more recesses 272 in the upper tool port section. Advantageously, limiting or fixing the rotation of the lower tool port section relative to the upper tool port section allows for rotational control of the lower tool port section by control of the upper tool port section. Thus, the tool port cap assembly can be threaded onto the fitting 120 by a rotational force applied to the upper tool port section.

[0054] In another embodiment (see FIGS. 9 and 11), the upper tool port portion may include one or more downwardly extending protrusions 274 configured to extend into the first portion 262 and / or the second portion 264 of the fluid flow channel. For example, a portion of the protrusions 274 may contact the surfaces 263 defining the sides of the first portion 262, thereby limiting or fixing the rotation of the lower tool port portion relative to the upper tool port portion.

[0055] In some cases, the upper tool port section must be moved axially along longitudinal axis 226 to rotationally engage the lower tool port section. For example, the upper tool port section may be moved axially toward the lower tool port section so that a protrusion on one engages a recess (e.g., channel) in the other, limiting or locking the rotational movement of the two. In some cases, moving the upper tool port section axially relative to the lower tool port section compresses or further compresses the diverter seal.

[0056] A diverter seal 202 may be disposed between the upper and lower tool port portions. When the tool port cap assembly is assembled, the diverter seal is preferably compressed between the upper and lower tool port portions. The diverter seal is configured to resist antegrade fluid flow (i.e., flow in a distal-to-proximal direction) through the instrument passageway and opening of the upper tool port portion. Thus, fluid flowing upward from the seal travels instead through one or more fluid flow channels defined by the upper and / or lower tool port portions.

[0057] Preferably, the diverter seal is configured to occlude at least a portion of the instrument passageway (e.g., fluid flow path) to divert fluid flowing proximally from the instrument passageway in the lower tool port section to at least one fluid flow channel. In some embodiments, when assembled, the diverter seal contacts an upper surface of the lower tool port section.

[0058] Additionally, a seal 260 (e.g., a hemostatic valve, a Tuohy Borst valve, a compression gland, and / or a split septum) may be associated with the lower tool port section. This seal may be located downstream of the diverter seal and distal (e.g., downstream) of the lower tool port section along the instrument passageway. The seal may be compressed between the lower tool port section and fitting 120.

[0059] While the present disclosure has been shown and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, it is to be understood that this is to be understood by way of example and not by way of limitation. Only preferred embodiments have been disclosed, and all changes, equivalents, and modifications made within the spirit of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims are intended to be protected. Furthermore, all publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be set forth by reference in its entirety. Terms

[0060] The following numbered clauses refer to specific embodiments that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure.

[0061] Clause 1: An endoscope having an instrument passageway for receiving an instrument, the instrument passageway having a length extending through the endoscope, a first seal positioned proximally along the length of the instrument passageway relative to a second seal, and a fluid flow channel communicating with a region of the instrument passageway between the first seal and the second seal, the fluid flow channel being open to atmospheric pressure.

[0062] Clause 2: An endoscope as described in clause 1, wherein the first seal and the second seal are spaced apart from each other along the instrument passage.

[0063] Clause 3: An endoscope according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the second seal is a hemostatic seal.

[0064] Clause 4: An endoscope according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the second seal is a Tuohy Borst valve.

[0065] Clause 5: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the first seal is a hemostatic seal.

[0066] Clause 6: An endoscope as described in clause 1, wherein the first seal and the second seal are part of a tool port assembly.

[0067] Clause 7: An endoscope as described in Clause 6, wherein the tool port assembly includes a tool port cap assembly having an upper tool port portion and a lower tool port portion, and the first seal is disposed between the upper tool port portion and the lower tool port portion.

[0068] Clause 8: An endoscope as described in Clause 7, wherein at least a portion of the fluid flow channel extends in a direction away from the upper tool port portion.

[0069] Clause 9: An endoscope according to clause 7 or 8, wherein at least a portion of the fluid flow channel is formed by the lower tool port portion.

[0070] Clause 10: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 7 to 9, wherein the fluid flow channel is formed on the upper surface of the lower tool port portion and at least a portion of the fluid flow channel extends in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the lower tool port portion.

[0071] Clause 11: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 7 to 10, wherein the first seal contacts the upper surface of the lower tool port portion and blocks at least a portion of the instrument passage, thereby diverting fluid moving along the instrument passage from the distal side to the proximal side toward the first seal into the fluid flow channel.

[0072] Clause 12: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 7 to 11, wherein the second seal is positioned distal to the lower tool port portion.

[0073] Clause 13: An endoscope as described in any one of clauses 7 to 12, wherein the rotational movement of the lower tool port section is limited and / or fixed relative to the upper tool port section, such that rotation of the upper tool port section can rotate the lower tool port section.

[0074] Clause 14: An endoscope as described in any one of clauses 7 to 13, wherein the lower tool port portion comprises a first portion having a first cross-sectional dimension and a second portion having a second cross-sectional dimension larger than the first cross-sectional dimension, and the transition on the outer surface from the first cross-sectional dimension to the second cross-sectional dimension forms a step.

[0075] Clause 15: An endoscope as described in clause 14, wherein the step extends transversely to a longitudinal axis of the lower tool port section.

[0076] Clause 16: An endoscope as described in clause 14 or 15, wherein the lower tool port section is located at least partially within the upper tool port section, and a protrusion on the upper tool port section contacts the step to hold the upper tool port section to the lower tool port section.

[0077] Clause 17: An endoscope according to any one of clauses 7 to 16, wherein the upper tool port section is connected to the lower tool port section by a snap fit.

[0078] Clause 18: An endoscope comprising an endoscope body, a first fluid channel defining a first fluid flow path at least partially through a body of the endoscope body, and a second fluid channel defining a second fluid flow path at least partially through the endoscope body, the first and second fluid flow paths merge into a third fluid flow path, the first fluid flow path being selectively fully or partially opened and / or closed by a control on the endoscope body, a proximal end of the second fluid flow path including a valve, the third fluid flow path communicating with an instrument channel for passing an instrument, the instrument channel having a hemostatic seal.

[0079] Clause 19: An endoscope as described in Clause 18, wherein the instrument channel defines an instrument passageway, the endoscope comprising a diverter seal positioned proximally along the length of the instrument passageway relative to the hemostatic seal, and a fluid flow channel in communication with a region of the instrument passageway between the diverter seal and the hemostatic seal, the fluid flow channel being open to atmospheric pressure.

[0080] Clause 20: The endoscope of clause 19, wherein the diverter seal comprises a hemostatic seal.

[0081] Clause 21: An endoscope comprising an endoscope body and a tool port assembly defining an opening to an instrument passage through the endoscope body for insertion of a tool, the tool port assembly having an upper tool port section and a lower tool port section, the upper tool port section and the lower tool port section defining a fluid flow channel when connected, the tool port assembly further having a diverter seal disposed between the upper tool port section and the lower tool port section, the diverter seal diverting fluid through the fluid flow channel.

[0082] Clause 22: An endoscope as described in Clause 21, wherein the fluid flow channel extends in a direction away from the proximal end of the endoscope.

[0083] Clause 23: An endoscope according to any one of clauses 21 to 22, wherein the instrument passage extends through the upper tool port section and the lower tool port section.

[0084] Clause 24: An endoscope as described in any one of clauses 21 to 23, wherein the upper surface of the lower tool port portion defines an opening to the instrument passage.

[0085] Clause 25: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 21 to 24, wherein the fluid flow channel is defined on the upper surface of the lower tool port portion and at least a portion of the fluid flow channel extends in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the lower tool port portion.

[0086] Clause 26: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 21 to 25, wherein the diverter seal is operably contacted to an upper surface of the lower tool port portion, and the diverter seal blocks at least a portion of the instrument passage so as to divert fluid moving through the instrument passage into the at least one fluid flow channel.

[0087] Clause 27: An endoscope as described in any one of clauses 21 to 26, wherein the lower tool port portion includes a split septum.

[0088] Clause 28: An endoscope as described in any one of clauses 21 to 27, wherein the upper tool port portion defines the opening into the body of the endoscope.

[0089] Clause 29: An endoscope as described in any one of clauses 21 to 28, comprising a compressible seal gland positioned distal to the lower tool port portion.

[0090] Clause 30: An endoscope as described in any one of clauses 21 to 29, wherein the upper tool port portion and the lower tool port portion are connected by a snap fit.

[0091] Clause 31: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 21 to 30, wherein the lower tool port portion has a first portion having a first cross-sectional dimension and a second portion having a second cross-sectional dimension larger than the first cross-sectional dimension, and the transition from the first cross-sectional dimension to the second cross-sectional dimension at the outer surface defines a step.

[0092] Clause 32: An endoscope according to any one of clauses 21 to 31, wherein the step extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the lower tool port portion.

[0093] Clause 33: An endoscope as described in Clause 31 or 32, wherein the lower tool port section is at least partially positioned within the upper tool port section, and a protrusion on the upper tool port section contacts a step to hold the upper tool port section on the lower tool port section.

[0094] Clause 34: An endoscope comprising an endoscope body, a tool port assembly defining an opening to a flow path for inserting a tool, the tool port assembly including a split septum and a tool port cap defining the opening to the flow path, the split septum defining a portion of the flow path through the body of the split septum, and the split septum and the tool port cap being connectable to divert fluid from the opening to the flow path.

[0095] Clause 35: The endoscope of clause 24, further comprising a diverter seal disposed between the split septum and the tool port cap.

[0096] Clause 36: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 34 or 35, wherein the diverter seal operably contacts the upper surface of the split septum, and the diverter seal covers at least a portion of the flow path so as to divert fluid flowing through the flow path into at least one fluid flow channel defined in the upper surface of the split septum.

[0097] Clause 37: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 34 to 36, wherein the split septum defines an opening having an axis transverse to the axis of the flow path.

[0098] Clause 38: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 34 to 37, wherein the upper surface of the body of the split septum defines at least one fluid flow channel, the axis of at least a portion of the fluid flow channel extending in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the flow path.

[0099] Clause 39: An endoscope comprising an endoscope body, a first fluid channel defining a first fluid flow path at least partially through the endoscope body, and a second fluid channel defining a second fluid flow path at least partially through the endoscope body, wherein the first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path merge into a third fluid flow path.

[0100] Clause 40: An endoscope as described in Clause 39, wherein the first fluid flow path and the second fluid flow path flow into a mixing joint, and both of the two fluid flow paths exit the mixing joint through the third fluid flow path.

[0101] Clause 41: An endoscope as described in clause 39 or 40, wherein the first fluid flow path is an integral perfusion channel.

[0102] Clause 42: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 39 to 41, wherein the first fluid flow path is selectively partially or completely opened and / or closed by a control unit on the endoscope body, the proximal end of the second fluid flow path has a valve, and the third fluid flow path communicates with an instrument channel for receiving an instrument, the instrument channel having a hemostatic seal.

[0103] Clause 43: An endoscope as described in Clause 42, wherein the instrument channel defines an instrument passageway, the endoscope having a diverter seal disposed along the length of the instrument passageway and spaced proximally of the hemostatic seal, and a fluid flow channel communicating with a region of the instrument passageway between the diverter seal and the hemostatic seal, the fluid flow channel being open to atmospheric pressure.

[0104] Clause 44: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 39 to 43, wherein the fluid flowing through the first fluid flow path is primarily saline.

[0105] Clause 45: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 39 to 44, wherein the proximal end of the second fluid flow path includes a syringe-actuated valve.

[0106] Clause 46: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 39 to 45, wherein the upper tool port portion includes a hollow interior defined by an inner surface, the inner surface including a protrusion that projects into the interior of the upper tool port portion.

[0107] Clause 51: An endoscope according to any one of clauses 39 to 50, wherein the upper surface of the lower tool port section includes a protrusion, the protrusion being received in a recess in the upper tool port section.

[0108] Clause 52: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 39 to 51, wherein the upper tool port portion includes at least one protrusion, and in the locked configuration, the protrusion extends into the fluid flow channel.

[0109] Clause 53: An endoscope described in any one of clauses 39 to 52, wherein the fluid flow channel is defined in the upper surface of the lower tool port portion, and the fluid flow channel is defined by a U-shaped recess in the upper surface of the lower tool port portion.

[0110] Clause 54: An endoscope according to any one of clauses 39 to 53, wherein the protrusion contacts the side wall of the fluid flow channel.

[0111] Clause 55: An endoscope according to any one of clauses 39 to 54, wherein the width of the protrusion is sufficient to directly contact both sides of the fluid flow channel.

[0112] Clause 56: An endoscope according to any one of clauses 39 to 55, wherein the width of the protrusion is sufficient to contact only one side of the fluid flow channel at a time.

Claims

1. 1. An endoscope having an instrument passage for receiving an instrument, the instrument passage having a length extending through the endoscope, a first seal positioned proximally along the length of the instrument passage relative to a second seal, and a fluid flow channel communicating with a region of the instrument passage between the first seal and the second seal, the fluid flow channel being open to atmospheric pressure.

2. The endoscope of claim 1 , wherein the first seal and the second seal are spaced apart from one another along the instrument passageway.

3. The endoscope of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second seal is a hemostatic seal.

4. 4. An endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the second seal is a Tuohy Borst valve.

5. An endoscope according to claim 1 , wherein the first seal is a hemostatic seal.

6. The endoscope of claim 1 , wherein the first seal and the second seal are part of a tool port assembly.

7. 7. The endoscope of claim 6, wherein the tool port assembly includes a tool port cap assembly having an upper tool port portion and a lower tool port portion, the first seal being disposed between the upper and lower tool port portions.

8. The endoscope of claim 7 , wherein at least a portion of the fluid flow channel extends along a direction away from the upper tool port portion.

9. The endoscope of claim 7 or 8, wherein the fluid flow channel is defined at least in part by the lower tool port portion.

10. 10. The endoscope of claim 7, wherein the fluid flow channel is defined in an upper surface of the lower tool port section, and at least a portion of the fluid flow channel extends transverse to a longitudinal axis of the lower tool port section.

11. 11. The endoscope of claim 7, wherein the first seal contacts an upper surface of the lower tool port portion, and the first seal occludes at least a portion of the instrument passageway such that fluid traveling along the instrument passageway in a distal-to-proximal direction toward the first seal is diverted into the fluid flow channel.

12. 12. The endoscope of claim 7, wherein the second seal is located distal to the lower tool port portion.

13. 13. An endoscope according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein rotational movement of the lower tool port section is limited and / or fixed relative to the upper tool port section, such that rotation of the upper tool port section can rotate the lower tool port section.

14. 14. The endoscope of claim 7, wherein the lower tool port section comprises a first portion having a first cross-sectional dimension and a second portion having a second cross-sectional dimension that is larger than the first cross-sectional dimension, the transition on an exterior surface from the first cross-sectional dimension to the second cross-sectional dimension defining a step.

15. The endoscope of claim 14, wherein the step extends transversely to a longitudinal axis of the lower tool port section.

16. 16. The endoscope according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the lower tool port section is at least partially located inside the upper tool port section, and a protrusion on the upper tool port section contacts the step to hold the upper tool port section to the lower tool port section.

17. 17. An endoscope according to any one of claims 7 to 16, wherein the upper tool port section is connected to the lower tool port section by a snap fit.

18. 1. An endoscope comprising: an endoscope body; a first fluid channel defining a first fluid flow path at least partially through the endoscope body; and a second fluid channel defining a second fluid flow path at least partially through the endoscope body, the first and second fluid flow paths merge into a third fluid flow path, the first fluid flow path being controlled by a control unit on the endoscope body to selectively fully or partially open and / or close the first fluid flow path, a proximal end of the second fluid flow path including a valve, and the third fluid flow path communicating with an instrument channel for receiving an instrument, the instrument channel having a hemostatic seal.

19. 20. The endoscope of claim 18, wherein the instrument channel defines an instrument passageway, the endoscope including a diverter seal positioned proximally spaced from the hemostatic seal along the length of the instrument passageway, and a fluid flow channel in communication with a region of the instrument passageway between the diverter seal and the hemostatic seal, the fluid flow channel being open to atmospheric pressure.

20. The endoscope of claim 19 , wherein the diverter seal comprises a hemostatic seal.

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