Endoscopic valve devices, systems, and methods

Abstract

The valve assembly includes an improved seal. The valve assembly may be configured for use as a suction valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve well and a valve shaft movable relative to the valve well to shift the valve assembly between an off configuration and an on configuration. A cylindrical seal member is circumferentially disposed around the valve shaft and seals around a lateral port that extends laterally through the valve shaft and is in fluid communication with an axial port at an end of the valve shaft via a channel in the valve shaft. The cylindrical seal member seals the lateral port of the valve shaft (and the lateral valve well port in fluid communication therewith) from fluid communication with the axial port of the valve shaft (and the axial valve well port in fluid communication therewith) when the valve shaft assembly is within the valve well.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to devices (including, but not limited to, components and assemblies), systems, and methods for controlling the flow of material through a valve, and more particularly, to devices, systems, and methods for controlling the flow of material through an endoscope, and particularly through a valve of a valve assembly usable in a medical device such as an endoscope. [Background technology]

[0002] Various devices including valve assemblies for use during various medical procedures are known in the art. For example, during a medical procedure, materials may be delivered to an anatomical site (e.g., fluids may be delivered for irrigation, etc.) and / or aspirated from an anatomical site (e.g., fluids or biological materials may be withdrawn from an anatomical site). A valve assembly may be used to control the flow of such materials. Endoscopes are common medical devices used to introduce or remove substances from an anatomical site and, therefore, typically include a valve assembly. Endoscopes typically have an insertion tube with a working channel through which substances (e.g., fluids such as gases or liquids), devices, instruments, or tools may be introduced or materials may be removed or aspirated. To control the flow of materials through the endoscope, a fluid source and / or a suction pump / vacuum source is fluidly coupled to the endoscope handle and insertion tube via the valve assembly. The valve assembly typically has a valve well and a valve shaft, which is shiftable within the valve well between an off position, in which the valve assembly is in an off configuration, and an on position, in which the valve assembly is in an on configuration. In the off configuration, the valve assembly blocks fluid communication between the fluid / suction source and the working channel of the endoscope. When the valve assembly is shifted to the on configuration (typically by being depressed against the handle), fluid communication is established between the fluid / suction source and the insertion tube of the endoscope, and fluid and / or suction / negative pressure is applied to the insertion tube of the endoscope. Proper sealing of ports, channels, lumens, etc. associated with such valves is important. For example, with respect to a suction valve assembly, seals are provided along the ports and channels of the aspiration flow path to maintain sufficient suction when the suction valve is in the on position (fluidly coupling the suction source with the working channel) and to prevent unintentional suction through the working channel when the suction valve is in the off position. There remains a need for improvement in endoscopic valves, such as suction valves and their associated seals. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are described in more detail below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to necessarily identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that each of the various aspects and features of the present disclosure, whether described in this Summary or not, may be advantageously used separately in some instances or in combination with other aspects and features of the present disclosure in other instances. No limitation as to the scope of the claimed subject matter is intended by the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary.

[0004] In accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, a valve component for a medical valve assembly includes a valve shaft extendable through a valve well of the valve assembly and along an actuation axis for actuation movement along the actuation axis, the valve shaft defining a valve shaft suction source port extending transversely to the actuation axis and a valve shaft suction apply port extending axially along the actuation axis and in fluid communication with the valve shaft suction source port, and a cylindrical seal member extending circumferentially around the valve shaft and defining a suction source connection port in fluid communication with the valve shaft suction source port. In some aspects, the valve shaft is axially movable within the valve well between an off position, in which the valve assembly is in an off configuration, where the valve shaft suction source port is not in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port, and an on position, in which the valve assembly is in an on configuration, where the valve shaft suction source port is in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port.

[0005] Optionally, the cylindrical seal member includes a circumferential seal element extending circumferentially around the cylindrical seal member and radially outward from an outer surface of the cylindrical seal member proximal and distal to the circumferential seal element. Optionally, the circumferential seal element forms a seal proximal and distal to the valve shaft suction source port and the valve well suction source port to create a sealed space extending circumferentially around the valve shaft and to seal fluid communication through the valve assembly between a suction source in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port and a suction application device in fluid communication with the valve well suction application port.

[0006] In some aspects, the valve shaft has a proximal end extending away from the valve well for actuation by a user and a distal end extending into the valve well. Optionally, the valve assembly further includes a shaft seal member adjacent the distal end of the valve shaft. In some aspects, the shaft seal member seals between the valve well suction source port and the valve well suction apply port.

[0007] Optionally, the cylindrical seal member defines one or more suction bleed passages axially along the cylindrical seal member between the valve shaft and the cylindrical seal member. Optionally, the one or more suction bleed passages are in fluid communication with air outside the valve assembly, allowing air from outside the valve assembly to bleed from a suction source in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port when the suction source is activated and the valve assembly is in an off configuration. Optionally, the valve shaft defines a bleed port therethrough in fluid communication with air outside the valve assembly and the one or more bleed passages. Optionally, the one or more bleed passages extend axially through the cylindrical seal member, and the cylindrical seal member seals between the one or more bleed passages therethrough and the valve well suction source port.

[0008] In accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, a valve shaft assembly for a valve assembly of a medical device includes a valve shaft having a proximal end configured for engagement by a user, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, the valve shaft defining a laterally extending port extending transversely relative to the longitudinal axis and an axially extending port extending axially along the longitudinal actuation axis, the laterally extending port being in fluid communication with the axially extending port; and a flexible cylindrical seal member formed from a sealing material more flexible than the valve shaft, extending circumferentially around the valve shaft and defining a laterally extending port in fluid communication with the laterally extending port of the valve shaft.

[0009] Optionally, the cylindrical seal member includes a circumferential seal element extending circumferentially around the cylindrical seal member and radially outward from an outer surface of the cylindrical seal member proximal and distal to the circumferential seal element. Optionally, the circumferential seal element is configured to define a seal proximal and distal to the laterally extending port in the valve shaft when disposed in a valve well of the valve assembly.

[0010] Optionally, the cylindrical seal member defines one or more suction bleed passages axially along the cylindrical seal member between the valve shaft and the cylindrical seal member. Optionally, the valve shaft defines a bleed port therethrough in fluid communication with the one or more bleed passages.

[0011] Optionally, the valve shaft assembly further includes a shaft seal member on the valve shaft adjacent a distal end of the valve shaft. In accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, a valve component for a medical valve assembly includes a cylindrical seal member having an axial bore therethrough configured to extend circumferentially about a valve shaft, the cylindrical seal member defining a laterally extending suction source connection port in fluid communication with a laterally extending valve shaft suction source port defined laterally through the valve shaft, the valve shaft suction source port in fluid communication with a valve shaft suction apply port extending axially through the valve shaft.

[0012] Optionally, the cylindrical seal member includes a circumferential seal element extending circumferentially around the cylindrical seal member and radially outward from an outer surface of the cylindrical seal member proximal and distal to the circumferential seal element. Optionally, the circumferential seal element forms a seal proximal and distal to the valve shaft suction source port and the valve well suction source port to create a sealed space extending circumferentially around the valve shaft and to seal fluid communication through the valve assembly between a suction source in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port and a suction application device in fluid communication with the valve well suction application port.

[0013] Optionally, the cylindrical seal member defines one or more suction bleed passages axially along the cylindrical seal member, the one or more suction bleed passages being disposed between the cylindrical seal member and the valve shaft and configured to be in fluid communication with air outside the valve assembly. Optionally, the cylindrical seal member is configured to seal between the one or more bleed passages therethrough and a suction source port defined in a valve well of the valve assembly.

[0014] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent from the following detailed description, and the scope of the claimed invention is set forth in the appended claims. While the following disclosure is presented in terms of aspects or embodiments, it should be understood that each aspect may be claimed separately or in combination with aspects and features of that or any other embodiment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] Non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure are described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are schematic and not intended to be drawn to scale. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, order, and relative sizes reflected in the figures within the drawings may vary. For example, a device may be enlarged so that details can be discerned, but is intended to be reduced in size to fit within the working channel of, for example, a delivery catheter or endoscope. It should be noted that in the drawings, identical, substantially identical, or equivalent elements are typically represented by the same reference character, similar elements are typically designated by similar reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted for brevity and convenience. For clarity and conciseness, not every element is labeled in every figure, and not every element of each embodiment is shown unless illustration is necessary to enable those skilled in the art to understand the present disclosure. The detailed description will be better understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, as follows, in which like reference numerals represent similar elements. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of an endoscope including one or more valves formed in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 and 3 are perspective views of one example of an embodiment of a valve assembly formed in accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, such as for an endoscope. [Figure 3] 2 and 3 are perspective views of one example of an embodiment of a valve assembly formed in accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, such as for an endoscope. [Figure 4A] 4A is a cross-sectional view of one example of an embodiment of a valve assembly in an off or closed configuration, such as along line IV-IV of the valve assembly as shown in FIG. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4A, but with the valve assembly in an on or open configuration. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one example of an embodiment of a valve shaft formed in accordance with various principles of the present disclosure for a valve assembly, such as for an endoscope. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings illustrating exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments described, and as such may vary. All devices, systems, and methods described herein are examples of devices and / or systems and / or methods implemented in accordance with one or more principles of the present disclosure. Each example embodiment is provided for illustrative purposes and is merely an example, not the only way, to implement these principles. Therefore, references to elements or structures or features in the drawings should be recognized as references to example embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the particular elements, structures, or features illustrated. Other examples of ways to implement the disclosed principles will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the present subject matter. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. It is therefore intended that the present subject matter encompass all such modifications and variations within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0017] It will be understood that the present disclosure is described in this application with varying levels of detail. In certain instances, details not necessary for those skilled in the art to understand the present disclosure or that would make it difficult for those skilled in the art to appreciate other details may be omitted. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting beyond the scope of the appended claims. Unless otherwise defined, technical terms used herein should be understood as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. All of the devices and / or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure.

[0018] As used herein, "proximal" refers to a direction or location closest to a user (e.g., a medical professional or clinician or technician or operator or physician, etc., such terms are used interchangeably herein without limitation and include an automated controller system, etc.) and / or closest to a delivery device, such as when using the device (e.g., when introducing the device into a patient or during implantation, placement, or delivery), and "distal" refers to a direction or location furthest from a user and / or closest to a delivery device, such as when using the device (e.g., when introducing the device into a patient or during implantation, placement, or delivery). "Longitudinal" means extending along the longer or greater dimension of an element. A "longitudinal axis" extends along the longitudinal extent of an element, but is not necessarily straight, and does not necessarily maintain a fixed configuration when the element flexes or bends, and "axial" refers generally along the longitudinal axis. However, it will be understood that references to axial or longitudinal movement with respect to the above-described systems or elements thereof need not be strictly limited to axial and / or longitudinal movement along the longitudinal or central axis of the referenced elements. "Center" means at least approximately bisecting the center point and / or being approximately equidistant from the periphery or boundary, and "central axis," with respect to an opening, means a line at least approximately bisecting the center point of the opening and extending longitudinally along the length of the opening, for example, when the opening comprises a tubular element, channel, cavity, or bore. As used herein, a "channel" or "bore" or "passage" is not limited to a circular cross-section. As used herein, a "free end" of an element is a terminus beyond which such element does not extend. It will be understood that terms such as at, on, adjacent to, or along an end can be used interchangeably herein without limitation, unless otherwise stated, and are intended to indicate a general relative spatial relationship, rather than a precisely defined location.

[0019] Various medical devices include valve assemblies for regulating or controlling the delivery of fluid (irrigation) or the suction of fluid (aspiration) to an anatomical site. While this disclosure describes suction valves, it will be understood that the principles of this disclosure need not be so limited.

[0020] The suction valve assembly of the medical device is positioned to apply suction from a suction source to an anatomical site via a flexible tubular element that is configureable and positionable relative to the anatomical site. The medical device may be an endoscope, and the flexible tubular element may be an insertion tube of the endoscope. The suction source may be a pump or other mechanism that generates a vacuum that is applied to the anatomical site via the flexible tubular element. In an off configuration of the valve assembly, fluid communication between the suction source and the flexible tubular element is interrupted or blocked so that suction is not applied to the anatomical site, and the valve may be considered to be in a closed configuration. In an on configuration of the valve assembly, the suction source is fluidly coupled to the flexible tubular element, such as to suction the anatomical site, and the valve may be considered to be in an open configuration.

[0021] The valve assembly of the medical device may be attached to a control handle and typically include an actuatable member movable relative to the control handle to shift the valve assembly between an off configuration and an on configuration. The actuatable member may include a valve shaft and a user engagement element movable relative to a valve well formed in the control handle or formed and disposed in the control handle. Holes may be formed in the valve shaft to form channels that can be selectively aligned with ports in the valve well to selectively place the suction source in and out of fluid communication with the flexible tubing of the device to apply or not apply suction to the anatomical site. Various control handles have different arrangements of ports and channels that place the suction source in and out of fluid communication with the flexible tubing directed toward the anatomical site. Thus, various arrangements of holes in the valve shaft can place the port in and out of alignment with the suction source and the port in and out of alignment with the flexible tubing (directed toward the patient).

[0022] For convenience, and without any intention of limitation, reference will be made herein to a valve assembly for an endoscope suction valve. The flexible tubular element of the endoscope, referred to herein as the insertion tube, is generally positionable within a patient, such as an organ, body lumen / passageway, or cavity (although any other such anatomical location may be referenced herein, without any intention of limitation). The insertion tube defines one or more lumens therethrough configured to pass materials, instruments, tools, devices, etc. through a working channel to the anatomical location. For example, the lumens may include a suction lumen, an irrigation lumen, a working channel, and a visualization lumen (e.g., for a light guide, optical fiber, camera element, etc.). This disclosure describes a valve assembly usable in a control handle that includes a suction source port in fluid communication with a laterally-extending suction channel to a suction source. More specifically, the laterally-extending suction channel extends transversely to the direction of actuation movement of the valve assembly's actuatable member and, therefore, transversely to the longitudinal axis of the valve shaft. The suction channel and suction port are selectively moved into and out of fluid communication with the suction application port, which is in fluid communication with the suction lumen through the insertion tube and with an axially-extending suction-application port leading to the anatomical site when the endoscope is in use. More specifically, the axially-extending suction application port is generally axially aligned with the direction of actuation movement of the actuatable member of the valve assembly and, therefore, axially aligned (optionally coaxial) with the longitudinal axis of the valve shaft. When the valve assembly is in the off configuration, the actuatable member is in a first position in which the valve shaft blocks fluid communication to the suction application port. When the valve assembly is in the on configuration, the valve shaft fluidly connects the suction application port to the suction source port.Typically, the actuatable member of the valve assembly is biased to an off configuration, such as with a biasing element, so that suction is only applied when a medical professional intends to apply suction, such as by pressing the actuatable member.

[0023] A seal is provided, and this seal is generally required to ensure the sealing of the valve assembly. In particular, a seal is provided to prevent vacuum pressure from affecting the insertion tube when the distal end of the insertion tube is positioned at an anatomical site and suction is not needed or desired. Furthermore, a seal is provided to prevent leakage of vacuum pressure, which could affect the effectiveness of suction applied to the anatomical site by the insertion tube. The present disclosure provides an improved valve assembly with improved sealing capabilities and, optionally, improved bleed / vent capabilities. While prior art valves have sealing elements circumferentially positioned around ports to the flow path (holes in the valve shaft and / or holes in the valve well leading to the flow path), the present disclosure provides a seal circumferentially positioned around the valve shaft. Prior art seals positioned circumferentially around ports transverse to the actuation axis along which the valve shaft moves can wear or even become displaced by repeated movement of the valve shaft relative to the valve well. More specifically, axial movement of the valve shaft relative to the valve well results in lateral movement of the seal relative to the flow path axis of the port in which the seal is positioned. In contrast, according to various principles of the present disclosure, a valve seal is circumferentially disposed around the valve shaft as well as around the suction portion, and optionally fixed in place against axial shift relative to the valve shaft, improving the sealing achieved by the valve assembly. In some embodiments, the valve seal is a cylindrical seal extending along the circumference of the valve shaft with a hole for fluidly connecting the suction source port of the valve well with the suction source port of the valve shaft. In some embodiments, the valve seal includes a vent / bleed passage to allow bleeding of vacuum pressure when suction is not being applied to the anatomical site but the suction source is continuously operating during the procedure. A valve shaft with a valve seal can be considered a valve shaft assembly.

[0024] Various features and embodiments of valve devices (including, but not limited to, components and assemblies), systems, and methods are described below with reference to examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. References herein to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “other embodiments,” etc., indicate that one or more particular features, structures, concepts, and / or characteristics according to the principles of the present disclosure may be included in connection with the embodiments. However, such references do not necessarily imply that all embodiments include the particular feature, structure, concept, and / or characteristic, or that one embodiment includes all features, structures, concepts, and / or characteristics. Some embodiments may include one or more such features, structures, concepts, and / or characteristics in various combinations thereof. It should be understood that one or more of the features, structures, concepts, and / or characteristics described with reference to one embodiment may be combined with one or more of the features, structures, concepts, and / or characteristics of any of the other embodiments provided herein. That is, any of the features, structures, concepts, and / or characteristics described herein can be mixed and matched to create hybrid embodiments, and such hybrid embodiments are within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, references in various places herein to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, and separate or alternative embodiments are not necessarily mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, it is to be understood that the various features, structures, concepts, and / or properties of the disclosed embodiments are independent and distinct from one another and may be used or exist individually or in various combinations with one another to create alternative embodiments that are considered part of this disclosure. Accordingly, since it would be prohibitively cumbersome to describe all of the many possible combinations and subcombinations of features, structures, concepts, and / or properties, the present disclosure is not limited to only the embodiments specifically described herein, and the example embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to limit the broader aspects of the present disclosure.It should be understood that the various dimensions provided herein are examples, and that one of ordinary skill in the art can readily determine appropriate ranges of standard deviation and acceptable variation therefrom that are encompassed by the present disclosure and any claims associated therewith. The following description is merely an illustrative example of an embodiment and is not intended as a limitation on the broader aspects of the present disclosure.

[0025] Referring now to the drawings, an example embodiment of a valve assembly 100 formed in accordance with various principles of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 1 as mounted on an example embodiment of an endoscope 200. It will be understood that endoscope 200 is one example of an embodiment to which the principles of the present disclosure may be applied, and that the various principles of the present disclosure may be applied to other medical instruments for controlling fluid flow thereto, the details of which are not critical to the present disclosure.

[0026] The valve assembly 100 is attached to a control handle 210 of the endoscope 200 to regulate the flow of a substance (e.g., a fluid) between an insertion tube 220 of the endoscope 200 and a suction source 300. The endoscope 200 has a connector cord 230 that extends to a scope connector 232, by which the endoscope 200 (and valve assembly 100) can be fluidly coupled to the suction source 300. The connector cord 230 may alternatively be referred to herein, without limitation, as an umbilical cord, umbilicus, universal cord, etc. The scope connector 232 may also couple the endoscope 200 via the connector cord 230 to various components, devices, etc., such as a fluid source (for supplying air, carbon dioxide, water, saline, or other gases or liquids), electrical connections, light sources, visualization elements (e.g., fiber optics, cameras, etc.), or other components, devices usable with the endoscope 200. The insertion tube 220 has a fluid lumen extending therethrough to a distal end that is positionable (insertable, navigable, etc.) relative to an anatomical site (e.g., within a patient). Similarly, the connector cord 230 has a fluid lumen extending therethrough for fluidly coupling the suction source 300 to the control handle 210 (e.g., via a scope connector 232). The fluid lumens through the insertion tube 220 and connector cord 230, as well as the distal end of the insertion tube 220, may be well-known features formed in a manner known to those skilled in the art and are not shown in the illustration of the endoscope 200 in FIG. 1 to simplify the drawing and omit details not necessary to understand the present disclosure.

[0027] An example embodiment of a valve assembly 100 formed in accordance with various principles of the present disclosure is shown separated from an endoscope (such as endoscope 200 shown in FIG. 1) in FIGS. 2, 3, 4A, and 4B. In the illustrated example embodiment, valve assembly 100 includes an actuatable member 110 that is movable relative to a valve well 150 of valve assembly 100. More specifically, actuatable member 110 includes a valve shaft 120 that is movable within and relative to valve well 150, a portion of valve shaft 120 being movable within valve well 150. Seal members 130 and 140 are provided on valve shaft 120 to seal the aspiration path through valve assembly 100 in on and off configurations of valve assembly 100, as described in further detail below.

[0028] The illustrated example embodiment of the valve well 150 is formed separately from and inserted into the control handle 210 of the endoscope 200 as shown in FIG. 1, although the disclosure is not limited in this respect. The valve well nut 160 shown in FIG. 2 and in further detail in cross-section in FIGS. 4A and 4B can hold the valve well 150 in place relative to a control handle (such as the control handle 210 shown in FIG. 1), such as in a manner known to those skilled in the art. A seal 162, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, can be provided between the valve well nut 160 and the proximal end 151 of the valve well 150, such as to create a seal between the valve well nut 160 and the control handle (and the valve well 150 therein). The example embodiment of the cap 170 is shown coupled to the valve well 150 via the valve well nut 160, although the disclosure is not limited to the illustrated arrangement. Cap 170 can provide various features for assembly and use of valve assembly 100, such as guides for actuation movement of actuatable member 110, orientation features for actuatable member 110, suction bleed passages through valve assembly 100, and other features, as described in further detail below. In some embodiments, cap 170 is a single-piece element, while in some embodiments, cap 170 is a two-piece element with a skirt or sleeve 172 having a cup 174 inserted therein.

[0029] The actuatable member 110 of the valve assembly 100 includes a user engagement element 112 configured to facilitate engagement and actuation of the actuatable member 110 at the proximal end 101 of the valve assembly 100. In the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 4A, and 4B, the user engagement element 112 is a button coupled to the proximal end 121 of the valve shaft 120 (e.g., in any of a variety of ways known to those skilled in the art), although the user engagement element 112 may alternatively be integrally formed with the valve shaft 120. In some embodiments, a separately formed user engagement element 112 allows the user engagement element 112 to be formed from a material that is comfortable to be pressed by a user's finger, such as a flexible elastomeric material. The actuatable member 110 is movable along an actuation axis AA, as can be understood with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B. A biasing element 114 may be provided to maintain the actuatable member 110 in a neutral position. The biasing element 114 may be a coil spring or other element that holds the elements apart while allowing such elements to be selectively moved together when a force is applied to one of the elements and / or the biasing element. The biasing element 114 may be disposed between the underside of the user engagement element 112 and the base 176 of the cap 170 (either the skirt 172 or the radially extending portion of the cup 174 within the skirt 172), such as in a manner known to those skilled in the art. It will be understood that the biasing element 114 is not shown in the perspective view of FIG. 3 to facilitate description of the features of the cap 170 described below. The actuatable member 110 may be biased by the biasing element 114 to a neutral position that maintains the valve assembly 100 in one of an on configuration or an off configuration (typically the off configuration). In the illustrated example embodiment, the actuatable member 110 of the valve assembly 100 is shifted from a neutral position, in which the valve assembly 100 is in the off configuration, to shift the valve assembly 100 to the on configuration. For example, the user engagement element 112 may be shifted distally from a position proximal to the proximal end 101 of the valve assembly 100 toward the distal end 103 of the valve assembly 100.However, the principles of the present disclosure may be applied to other configurations.

[0030] When actuatable member 110 is in the off position, valve assembly 100 is in the off configuration, and suction from a suction source fluidly coupled to valve assembly 100 is not supplied by valve assembly 100. When actuatable member 110 is shifted to the on position, valve assembly 100 is shifted to the on configuration, and suction from a suction source is supplied by valve assembly 100 to a suction applicator device fluidly coupled thereto, such as a suction applicator. In the context of endoscope 200 as shown in FIG. 1 , the suction applicator device is insertion tube 220, although valve assembly 100 formed according to various principles of the present disclosure may be coupled to other types of suction applicator devices known to those skilled in the art. 4A and 4B includes a valve well 150 with a valve-well-suction-source port 152 in fluid communication with a suction source (such as suction source 300 as shown in FIG. 1) and a valve-well-suction-application port 154 in fluid communication with a suction application device (such as insertion tube 220 as shown in FIG. 1). In the illustrated example embodiment, valve well-suction-source port 152 extends transversely relative to (extends across) actuation axis A, and valve well-suction-application port 154 extends generally along actuation axis A. Additionally, in the example embodiment of the valve assembly 100 shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the valve shaft 120 of the valve assembly 100 has a valve-shaft-suction-source port 122 that is movable into and out of alignment with the valve well suction source port 152 (and thus extends transversely to the actuation axis A) to fluidly connect the suction source to the suction-applying device through the valve assembly 100.Valve shaft 120 includes a valve-shaft-suction-application port 124 in fluid communication with valve well suction application port 154 (and thus extends generally along actuation axis A), through which valve assembly 100 can apply suction. When actuatable member 110 is in the neutral position, valve shaft 120 is in the off position and valve assembly 100 is in the off configuration in which valve shaft suction source port 122 is not aligned with valve well suction source port 152. Thus, a suction source is not in fluid communication with valve shaft suction application port 124 or valve well suction application port 154, and valve assembly 100 does not apply suction. When the actuatable member 110 is actuated to move the valve assembly 100 to the on configuration, the valve shaft 120 is shifted to the on position, aligning the valve shaft suction source port 122 with the valve well suction source port 152 and placing the suction source in fluid communication with the valve shaft suction channel 126 extending generally axially through the valve shaft 120, and therefore in fluid communication with the valve shaft suction apply port 124 and the valve well suction apply port 154.

[0031] 4A and 4B , the suction source is coupled to the valve assembly 100 transversely to the actuation axis AA of the actuatable member 110, and suction is applied generally axially relative to the actuation axis AA. As such, the valve shaft suction source port 122 is a side port defined in the sidewall of the valve shaft 120, and the valve shaft suction application port 124 is an axial port defined through the distal end 123 of the valve shaft 120. Similarly, the valve well suction source port 152 of the valve assembly 100 is a side port fluidly coupled to the suction source transversely to the actuation axis AA of the actuatable member 110 (and generally axially relative to the valve shaft suction source port 122), and the valve well suction application port 154 is an axial port that applies suction from the valve assembly 100 generally axially along the actuation axis AA (and generally axially relative to the valve shaft suction application port 124). The longitudinal axis LA of the valve shaft 120 generally extends along (parallel to or coaxial with) the actuation axis AA of the actuable member 110, and may be referred to herein alternatively, without any limitation, as the longitudinal axis LA of the valve shaft 120 or the actuation axis AA of the actuable member 110.

[0032] When the valve shaft suction source port 122 is aligned with the valve well suction source port 152, suction flows from the suction source through the suction source ports 122, 152 in a direction generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the valve shaft 120, and is then directed axially to apply suction via the valve shaft suction application port 124 and the valve well suction application port 154. Thus, the suction channel 126 extending through the valve shaft 120 between the valve shaft suction source port 122 and the valve shaft suction source port 122 is generally elbow-shaped with a bend therealong to transition from suction applied transversely to the valve shaft 120 (via the valve shaft suction source port 122) to suction applied axially from the valve shaft 120 (via the valve shaft suction application port 124).

[0033] In accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, the valve assembly 100 has an improved seal member and improved seal configuration, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. The illustrated seal configuration includes a cylindrical seal member 130 disposed on the valve shaft 120 relative to the valve shaft suction source port 122 and a shaft seal member 140 disposed on the valve shaft 120 relative to the valve shaft suction apply port 124. In accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, the cylindrical seal member 130 is formed separately from the valve shaft 120 and is circumferentially disposed around a portion of the valve shaft 120. The cylindrical seal member 130 is formed from a sealing material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer or silicone) capable of forming a seal between the valve shaft 120 and the valve well 150. Typically, the cylindrical seal member 130 is relatively flexible, while the valve shaft 120 is formed from a more rigid material (e.g., a more rigid plastic or metal) to resist deformation that may result from repeated use, continuous axial movement, forces applied by the biasing element 114, etc. 4A, 4B, and 5 is formed with a proximal flange 142a spaced from a distal flange 142b to define a space therebetween for the seal member 144. The flanges 142a, 142b may be formed from a rigid material (e.g., integral with the valve shaft 120), and the seal member 144 may be formed from an elastomeric sealing material (e.g., an O-ring). However, other configurations are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0034] The configuration and arrangement of cylindrical seal member 130 and shaft seal member 140 enhance the sealing of suction flow within valve assembly 100 when valve assembly 100 is in the on configuration. In some examples, a suction source fluidly coupled to valve assembly 100 continuously applies suction to valve assembly 100 (i.e., is continuously on). In such cases, actuatable member 110 of valve assembly 100 does not activate the suction source but simply places the suction source in and out of fluid communication with a suction application portion of valve assembly 100, typically a suction application device fluidly coupled to the suction application portion of valve assembly 100. For example, in the context of endoscope 200 shown in FIG. 1 , operation of actuatable member 110 of valve assembly 100 selectively applies or blocks suction to the anatomical site where insertion tube 220 is positioned. Thus, the improved seal arrangement within the valve assembly 100 can not only maintain suction through the valve assembly 100 when the valve assembly 100 is in the on configuration, but can also improve suction isolation and seal the suction source from the suction application device when the valve assembly 100 is in the off configuration.

[0035] When the valve assembly 100 is in the off configuration, the valve shaft suction source port 122 is not axially aligned with the valve well suction source port 152, as shown in FIG. 4A . A cylindrical seal member 130 is disposed radially between the valve shaft 120 and the valve well 150 and axially between the valve shaft suction source port 122 and the valve well suction source port 152 to seal the valve shaft suction source port 122 from suction applied to the valve well suction source port 152 from the suction source. Furthermore, by sealing the valve shaft suction source port 122, the cylindrical seal member 130 seals the valve shaft suction channel 126 from the suction source, thereby sealing the valve shaft suction apply port 124 and the valve well suction apply port 154 from fluid communication with the suction source. Thus, in the illustrated example embodiment of valve assembly 100, valve shaft suction source port 122 remains in fluid communication with valve well suction application port 154 via suction channel 126 extending through valve shaft 120, but vacuum pressure for applying suction to a patient's anatomical site via valve well suction application port 154 does not reach valve shaft suction application port 124. Additionally, shaft seal member 140 is disposed radially between valve shaft 120 and valve well 150 and axially between valve well suction source port 152 and valve well suction application port 154 to seal valve well suction application port 154 from suction from valve well suction source port 152. Thus, a suction source is not in fluid communication with valve well suction application port 154, and valve assembly 100 does not apply suction (e.g., to insertion tube 220 of endoscope 200 and / or the anatomical site).

[0036] In general, it is desirable to limit suction applied by valve assembly 100 when suction is desired and to limit, and preferably eliminate, suction when suction is not desired. For example, in certain endoscopic procedures, it is desirable to maintain an anatomical site in a pneumoperitoneum state to improve visualization of the target site of the procedure and / or to irrigate the target site, such as by supplying fluid to the target site. Suction may, in certain instances, be limited to reducing the fluid being delivered and / or removing other material (e.g., biological material) from the target site. Cylindrical seal member 130 formed in accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, including similarly configured valve port and flow channel arrangements, offers various advantages over conventional seals in valve assemblies, as can be seen with reference to the example embodiment of cylindrical seal member 130 shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 4A and 4B and the perspective view of FIG. 5 .

[0037] For example, as can be seen with reference to FIG. 5 , a cylindrical seal member 130 is disposed circumferentially around and extends axially along the valve shaft 120. A suction source connection port 132 is defined through the cylindrical sidewall for fluid access to the valve shaft suction source port 122 through the cylindrical seal member 130. Such a configuration forms a circumferentially and axially extended seal about the valve shaft suction source port 122 defined in the valve shaft 120, as opposed to the limited sealing range typically provided by a prior art O-ring disposed around the periphery of the valve shaft suction source port 122. As can be seen with reference to FIG. 5 , the generally cylindrical seal member 130 extending circumferentially around and axially along the valve shaft 120 beyond the immediate vicinity of the valve shaft suction source port 122 provides greater stability to the cylindrical seal member 130 as the valve shaft 120 is actuated up and down within and relative to the valve well 150 along the actuation axis AA. The larger dimensions of the cylindrical seal member 130 compared to prior art seal members (such as O-rings disposed around the valve shaft suction source port 122 and / or the valve well suction source port 152) enable the cylindrical seal member 130 to better maintain its position on the valve shaft 120 and its sealing position relative to the valve shaft suction source port 122 and / or the valve well suction source port 152 without suffering from the type of wear or deformation exhibited by prior art seals. Furthermore, because the cylindrical seal member 130 extends cylindrically around the valve shaft 120, the cylindrical seal member 130 provides a circumferential seal between the valve well suction source port 152 and the valve shaft suction source port 122 when the valve assembly 100 is in the off configuration.

[0038] As can be seen, the outer surface of the cylindrical seal member 130 contacts the inner surface of the valve well channel 156 in the valve well 150 to form a seal between the valve shaft 120 and the valve well 150. In some embodiments, the seal established by the cylindrical seal member 130 against the valve shaft suction source port 122 is provided by axially spaced circumferential seal elements 134 a, 134 b extending circumferentially around and radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical seal member 130 extending above and below each of the circumferential seal elements 134 a, 134 b. As can be appreciated, the radially outwardly facing surfaces of circumferential seal elements 134a, 134b contact the inner surface of valve well 150, thereby reducing the overall surface-to-surface contact area between cylindrical seal member 130 and the interior of valve well 150. Such a configuration can reduce the overall friction that occurs when actuatable member 110 moves between off and on positions to actuate valve assembly 100 (which may occur multiple times during use of valve assembly 100), thereby reducing friction and the risk of deformation, wear, displacement, etc., as exhibited by prior art seals.

[0039] As described above, in some examples, the suction source is continuously active / on during use of a valve assembly 100 formed according to various principles of the present disclosure, even when suction is not being applied by the valve assembly 100 (e.g., when the valve well suction source port 152 is not aligned with the valve shaft suction source port 122). In such examples, it may be desirable to vent or bleed the vacuum pressure generated within the valve assembly 100 from the suction source (through the valve well suction source port 152) when the valve assembly 100 is in the off configuration. Providing a cylindrical seal member 130 formed separately from the valve shaft 120 facilitates sealing the valve shaft suction source port 122 against the valve well suction source port 152 while also allowing for venting or bleeding of suction through the cylindrical seal member 130 when the valve assembly 100 is in the off configuration. In accordance with various principles of the present disclosure, the cylindrical seal member 130 has an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the valve shaft 120, as can be seen with reference to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 5. One or more suction bleed passages 135 may be defined axially along and through the cylindrical seal member 130 between the exterior of the valve shaft 120 and the interior of the cylindrical seal member 130, radially outward of a bore 137 through which the valve shaft 120 extends. When the valve shaft 120 is in the OFF position shown in FIG. 4A , ambient air may enter the seal suction bleed passages 135 through the proximal end 131 of the cylindrical seal member 130, travel axially along the seal suction bleed passages 135, and exit along the distal end 133 of the cylindrical seal member 130, along which it may be bled out of the valve well suction source port 152. As can be further understood with reference to FIG. 4A , path B for bleeding ambient air to the suction source may extend through a bleed port 125 extending through the valve shaft 120.The bleed port 125 in the valve shaft 120 can extend above the base 176 of the cap 170 (at least when the valve shaft 120 is in the off position shown in FIG. 4A ) to allow bleed path B to extend from outside the valve assembly 100 (above the cap 170), through the valve shaft 120, and into the valve assembly 100 below the cap 170. As shown in FIG. 4B , because bleeding of the suction source is not required when the valve assembly 100 is in the on configuration, the valve shaft bleed port 125 does not need to extend above the cap 170 when the valve shaft 120 is in the on position. Although not required when the bleed port 125 is provided through the valve shaft 120, the base 176 of the cap 170 optionally includes a vent hole 175 that provides bleed path B therethrough. In some embodiments, a flat may be formed axially along the valve shaft 120 from the proximal end 121 of the valve shaft 120 to the distal end 123 of the valve shaft 120 to define a bleed path B therealong. As can be seen, when the valve shaft 120 is in the on position, which places the valve shaft suction source port 122 in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port 152, as shown in FIG. 4B , the outer surface of the distal end 133 of the cylindrical seal member 130 (and circumferential seal elements 134 a, 134 b, if provided) seals the valve shaft suction source port 122 from the peripheral bleed path B. Additionally, the shaft seal member 140 seals the valve well suction apply port 154 from the bleed path B, thereby preventing loss of suction when the valve assembly 100 is in the on configuration.

[0040] 4B , the valve shaft 120 is positioned relative to the valve well 150 such that the valve shaft suction source port 122 is axially aligned and in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port 152. The valve shaft suction apply port 124 remains aligned and in fluid communication with the valve well suction apply port 154 and in fluid communication with the valve shaft suction source port 122 via the valve shaft suction channel 126, such that suction can be applied by the valve assembly 100 to an anatomical site or the like via the valve well suction apply port 154 when the valve shaft suction source port 122 is aligned in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port 152. The seal members 130, 140 seal the aspiration flow path in the on configuration of the valve assembly 100 by sealing the fluid communication of the valve shaft suction apply port 124 and the valve well suction source port 152 with each other and with the valve shaft suction channel 126. In particular, port 132 of cylindrical seal member 130 seals around valve shaft suction source port 122 and valve well suction source port 152, sealing the suction path therethrough. Shaft seal member 140 continues to provide a seal against valve well suction apply port 154, restricting fluid communication with valve well suction apply port 154 to fluid communication with valve shaft suction channel 126 and valve shaft suction apply port 124, and also sealing valve well suction apply port 154 from fluid communication with bleed path B through cylindrical seal member 130. Thus, the suction force applied by valve assembly 100 is not reduced by bleed path B within valve assembly 100.

[0041] In some embodiments, when the valve assembly 100 is in the on configuration, the seal established by the cylindrical seal member 130 against the valve shaft suction source port 122 and / or the valve well suction source port 152 is provided between circumferential seal elements 134 a, 134 b extending circumferentially around and radially outward from the cylindrical seal member 130 and the valve shaft 120, as described above. The proximal seal element 134 a forms a proximal seal against the valve well suction source port 152 (closer to the proximal end 101 of the valve assembly 100), and the distal seal element 134 b forms a distal seal against the valve well suction source port 152 (closer to the distal end 103 of the valve assembly 100). The circumferential seal elements 134 a, 134 b thereby define a sealed closed space extending circumferentially around the valve shaft 120, radially between the valve shaft 120 and the valve well 150, and axially between the circumferential seal elements 134 a, 134 b. The valve area created by circumferential seal elements 134a, 134b extending circumferentially around valve shaft 120 provides a larger sealing area around valve shaft suction source port 122 and valve well suction source port 152 than that provided by seals extending circumferentially around such ports, as in prior art valve assemblies. Sufficient space can be provided between circumferential seal elements 134a, 134b so that a seal is maintained even if circumferential seal elements 134a, 134b are slightly misaligned or if the valve shaft suction source port 122 and the valve well suction source port 152 are slightly misaligned axially.

[0042] It will be appreciated that alignment of the valve shaft suction source port 122 and the valve well suction source port 152 is desirable for effective application of vacuum to the anatomical site by the valve assembly 100. In some embodiments, the valve shaft 120 and cap 170 have alignment features, such as mating shapes (e.g., non-circular shapes), that orient the valve shaft 120 relative to the valve well 150 to maintain alignment between the laterally opening valve shaft suction source port 122 and the valve well suction source port 152, such as in a manner known to those skilled in the art. Additionally or alternatively, the valve shaft 120 may include an alignment member 128 that extends radially into an axially extending alignment slot 158 ​​in the valve well 150, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B . Engagement of alignment member 128 with alignment slot 158 ​​allows actuatable member 110 to be shifted axially / longitudinal between the on and off positions to shift valve assembly 100 between the on and off configurations while maintaining rotational alignment of valve shaft suction source port 122 with valve well suction source port 152 when valve shaft 120 is in the on configuration. In particular, alignment member 128 rotationally fixes valve shaft 120 relative to valve well 150 and maintains rotational alignment of valve shaft suction source port 122 relative to valve well suction source port 152 (such that valve shaft 120 does not rotate valve shaft suction source port 122 out of alignment with valve well suction source port 152 when valve shaft 120 is in the on position). Additionally, the alignment slot 158 ​​can provide an upper stop for axial movement of the valve shaft 120, such as in the OFF position shown in FIG. 4A (e.g., retaining the valve shaft 120 within the valve well 150), and a lower stop for the valve shaft 120, such as in the ON position shown in FIG. 4B (in which the valve shaft suction source port 122 is aligned with the valve well suction source port 152).It will be appreciated that the solid height of the biasing element 114 (when the biasing element 114 bottoms out) can also determine the distal distance that the actuatable member 110 can be shifted distally relative to the distal end 103 of the valve assembly 100, and thus can contribute to ensuring alignment of the valve shaft suction source port 122 and the valve well suction source port 152.

[0043] 4A and 4B, the alignment member 128 extends through the bore 138 in the cylindrical seal member 130 and into the alignment slot 158 ​​from the valve shaft 120. The alignment member 128 thus engages the cylindrical seal member 130 to maintain rotational and axial alignment of the cylindrical seal member 130 relative to the valve shaft 120. As a result, the alignment of the suction source access port 132 through the cylindrical seal member 130 relative to the valve shaft suction source port 122 and the valve well suction source port 152 is also maintained. The alignment member 128 can secure a separately formed cylindrical seal member 130 to the valve shaft 120 even if the cylindrical seal member 130 is not molded onto the valve shaft 120.

[0044] Various additional advantages of the various aspects, features, components, and structures of the valve shaft and associated seal member, as well as the valve assembly and endoscope, as described above, in addition to those described above, may be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0045] It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the present description is merely an illustration of exemplary embodiments and is not intended as limiting the broader aspects of the present disclosure. It will be understood that the principles of the present disclosure may be applied to a variety of medical devices, instruments, tools, etc., for accessing and applying suction and / or irrigation to an anatomical site, including, but not limited to, endoscopes, gastroscopes, duodenoscopes, catheters, ureteroscopes, bronchoscopes, colonoscopes, arthroscopes, cystoscopes, hysteroscopes, etc., and having integrated features for suction and / or irrigation of an anatomical site. Furthermore, the principles of the present disclosure may be applied to reusable or single-use devices, instruments, tools, etc.

[0046] All devices and methods described herein are examples of devices and / or methods implemented in accordance with one or more principles of the present disclosure. These examples are not the only ways of implementing these principles; they are merely examples and are not intended to limit the broader aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, references to elements, structures, or features in the drawings should be understood as references to example embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific elements, structures, or features shown. Other examples of ways of implementing the disclosed principles will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure. For example, the various elements and components of the valve assemblies described herein may be directly or indirectly coupled or engaged with one another, regardless of how such connections are shown in the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variations may be applied to the disclosed devices, systems, and / or methods and / or the sequence of steps of the methods described herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the present disclosure. It will be understood that various features described with respect to one embodiment may typically be applied to other embodiments, whether or not explicitly shown. The various features described below may be used alone or in any combination thereof. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to only the embodiments specifically described herein, and all alternatives and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and concept of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0047] The foregoing description is broadly applicable and has been presented for purposes of illustration and explanation and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. It will be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the present disclosure. In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the principles of the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components without departing from the concept, spirit, or scope or characteristics thereof. For example, various features of the present disclosure are grouped into one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. However, it should be understood that various features of a particular aspect, embodiment, or configuration of the present disclosure may be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments, or configurations. While the present disclosure has been presented in terms of embodiments, it should be understood that various individual features of the present subject matter need not all be present to achieve at least some of the desired properties and / or advantages of the present subject matter or such individual features. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present disclosure can be used with many modifications, or modifications of the structure, arrangement, proportions, materials, components, and the like used in implementing the disclosure, that are particularly adapted to particular environments and operating requirements, without departing from the principles, spirit, or scope of the disclosure. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be comprised of multiple pieces, or elements shown as multiple pieces may be integrally formed, operations of elements may be reversed or changed, and sizes or dimensions of elements may be changed. Similarly, although operations or actions or procedures are described in a particular order, this should not be construed as requiring such a specific order to achieve desirable results, or that all operations or actions or procedures should be performed. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims. In some cases, the operations recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results.The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the claimed subject matter is indicated by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description or to the specific embodiments or configurations described or illustrated herein. In view of the above, individual features of any embodiment may be used and claimed separately or in combination with features of that or any other embodiment, and the scope of the subject matter is indicated by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description.

[0048] In the foregoing description and in the claims that follow, it will be understood that: As used herein, the terms "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or" are open-ended expressions that function both conjunctively and disjunctively. Terms such as "a," "an," "the," "first," and "second" do not exclude a plurality. For example, the terms "a" or "an" entity, as used herein, refer to one or more of that entity. Thus, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense to include "and / or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the conjunction "and" includes each of the structures, components, features, etc. so connected unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, and the conjunction "or" includes one or the other of the structures, components, features, etc. so connected, alone and in any combination and number, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, above, below, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise, and / or the like) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of this disclosure and / or serve to distinguish regions of related elements from one another and do not limit the related elements, particularly with respect to position, orientation, or use of this disclosure. References to connections (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, engaged, and connected) should be construed broadly and, unless otherwise indicated, can include intermediate members between and relative movement between a collection of elements. Therefore, connection references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relationship to each other.Distinguishing references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to imply importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one characteristic from another.

[0049] The following claims are incorporated by reference into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure. In the claims, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and "comprising" do not exclude the presence of other elements, components, features, groups, regions, integers, steps, operations, etc. In addition, although individual features may be included in different claims, they may be advantageously combined, and inclusion in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous. In addition, a reference to the singular does not exclude a plurality. Reference signs in the claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

1. 1. A valve component for a medical valve assembly, comprising: a valve shaft extendable through a valve well of the valve assembly and along an actuation axis for actuation movement along the actuation axis, the valve shaft defining a valve shaft suction source port extending transversely to the actuation axis and a valve shaft suction apply port extending axially along the actuation axis and in fluid communication with the valve shaft suction source port; a cylindrical seal member extending circumferentially around the valve shaft and defining a suction source port in fluid communication with the valve shaft suction source port; Equipped with The valve shaft is axially movable within the valve well between an off position and an on position, wherein in the off position, the valve assembly is in an off configuration in which the valve shaft suction source port is not in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port, and in the on position, the valve assembly is in an on configuration in which the valve shaft suction source port is in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port.

2. 2. The valve component of claim 1, wherein the cylindrical seal member includes a circumferential seal element extending circumferentially around the cylindrical seal member and radially outward from an outer surface of the cylindrical seal member proximal and distal to the circumferential seal element.

3. 3. The valve component of claim 2, wherein the circumferential sealing element forms a seal proximal and distal to the valve shaft suction source port and the valve well suction source port to create a sealed space extending circumferentially around the valve shaft and seals fluid communication through the valve assembly between a suction source in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port and a suction application device in fluid communication with the valve well suction application port.

4. 4. The valve component of claim 1, wherein the valve shaft has a proximal end extending away from the valve well for actuation by a user and a distal end extending into the valve well, and the valve assembly further comprises a shaft seal member adjacent the distal end of the valve shaft and sealing between the valve well suction source port and the valve well suction apply port.

5. 5. A valve component according to any preceding claim, wherein the cylindrical seal member defines one or more suction bleed passages axially along the cylindrical seal member between the valve shaft and the cylindrical seal member.

6. 6. The valve component of claim 5, wherein the one or more suction bleed passages are in fluid communication with air outside the valve assembly to allow air from outside the valve assembly to bleed a suction source in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port when the suction source is activated and the valve assembly is in the off configuration.

7. 7. The valve component of claim 5 or 6, wherein the valve shaft defines a bleed port therethrough, the bleed port being in fluid communication with air outside the valve assembly and the one or more bleed passages.

8. 8. A valve component according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the one or more bleed passages extend axially through the cylindrical sealing member, the cylindrical sealing member sealing between the one or more bleed passages therethrough and the valve well suction source port.

9. 1. A valve shaft assembly for a valve assembly of a medical device, comprising: a valve shaft having a proximal end configured for engagement by a user, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween, the valve shaft defining a laterally extending port extending transversely to the longitudinal axis and an axially extending port extending axially along a longitudinal actuation axis, the laterally extending port being in fluid communication with the axially extending port; a flexible cylindrical seal member formed from a sealing material more flexible than the valve shaft, the flexible cylindrical seal member extending circumferentially around the valve shaft and defining a laterally extending port in fluid communication with the laterally extending port of the valve shaft; A valve shaft assembly comprising:

10. 10. The valve shaft assembly of claim 9, wherein the cylindrical seal member includes a circumferential seal element extending circumferentially around the cylindrical seal member and extending radially outward from an outer surface of the cylindrical seal member proximal and distal to the circumferential seal element.

11. 11. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein the circumferential seal element is configured to define a seal proximal and distal to the laterally extending port in the valve shaft when disposed within a valve well of the valve assembly.

12. 12. A valve shaft assembly according to claim 9, wherein the cylindrical seal member defines one or more suction bleed passages axially along the cylindrical seal member between the valve shaft and the cylindrical seal member.

13. The valve shaft assembly of claim 12 , wherein the valve shaft defines a bleed port therethrough, the bleed port being in fluid communication with the one or more bleed passages.

14. 1. A valve component for a medical valve assembly, the valve component comprising: a cylindrical sealing member having an axial bore therethrough configured to extend circumferentially about a valve shaft, the cylindrical sealing member defining a laterally extending suction source access port in fluid communication with a laterally extending valve shaft suction source port defined laterally through the valve shaft, the valve shaft suction source port in fluid communication with a valve shaft suction apply port extending axially through the valve shaft.

15. 15. The valve component of claim 14, wherein the cylindrical seal member includes a circumferential seal element extending circumferentially around the cylindrical seal member and radially outward from an outer surface of the cylindrical seal member proximal and distal to the circumferential seal element, the circumferential seal element forming a seal proximal and distal to the valve shaft suction source port and valve well suction source port to create a sealed space extending circumferentially around the valve shaft and sealing fluid communication through the valve assembly between a suction source in fluid communication with the valve well suction source port and a suction application device in fluid communication with the valve well suction apply port.

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