Medical systems, devices, and related methods for rotatably or pivotally coupling medical devices

Abstract

A coupling device for a medical system includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a first body and a first connector. The first connector extends from the first body and is configured to couple a first medical device to the first portion. The second portion includes a second body and a second connector. The second connector extends from the second body and is configured to couple a second medical device to the second portion. The first portion and the second portion are removably coupleable, and when coupled, the second portion is rotatable relative to the first portion.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to medical systems, devices, and related methods that can be used to treat a subject. Aspects of the present disclosure relate to, among other aspects, medical systems, devices, and methods for rotatably or pivotally coupling medical devices for endoscopic medical procedures, such as cutting, capturing, or otherwise manipulating tissue, objects, or materials with one or more medical devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Various medical techniques and instruments have been developed for diagnosis and / or treatment within a patient's body, such as within the patient's gastrointestinal (GI) tract or urinary system. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic submucosal resection (ESR), mucosal resection (EMR), polypectomy, mucosal resection, etc., are minimally invasive treatment methods for both malignant and non-malignant lesions. For example, endoscopic medical procedures such as ESR can be used to remove sessile adenomas or other unwanted tissue (e.g., tumors attached to a body surface) from the surface of an anatomical lumen (e.g., the stomach, esophagus, colon, etc.). Such procedures often require multiple endoscopic instruments for tissue removal. In some examples, a second medical device may be coupled to and / or inserted through a portion of a first medical device to allow a single user to hold and / or manipulate both the first and second medical devices, for example, to treat a treatment site. However, connecting a second medical device to a first medical device and / or inserting the second medical device through the first device may restrict movement of the second medical device relative to the first medical device, which may increase fatigue for the user, hinder manipulation and / or articulation of one or more of the first and / or second medical devices, or otherwise affect the procedure.

[0003] These concerns can increase the duration, cost, and risk of medical procedures. The systems, devices, and methods of the present disclosure may correct some of the above-described deficiencies or address other aspects of the art. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] Examples of the present disclosure relate to, among other things, systems, devices, and methods for performing one or more medical procedures, e.g., endoscopic medical procedures, such as cutting, capturing, or otherwise manipulating tissue, objects, or materials with one or more medical devices. Each of the examples disclosed herein may include one or more of the features described in connection with any of the other disclosed examples.

[0005] In some embodiments, a coupling device for a medical system can include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion can include a first body and a first connector. The first connector can extend from the first body and can be configured to couple a first medical device to the first portion. The second portion can include a second body and a second connector. The second connector can extend from the second body and can be configured to couple a second medical device to the second portion. The first portion and the second portion can be removably coupleable, and when coupled, the second portion can be rotatable relative to the first portion.

[0006] The coupling device may include one or more of the following features: The first body may include a first coupling projection; The second body may include a second coupling projection configured to be coupled to the first coupling projection; The first coupling projection may include a socket and the second coupling projection may include a ball.

[0007] The first body may include a first magnet, and the second body may include a second magnet of opposite polarity to the first magnet. The second body may include a plurality of second protrusions configured to rotate against the first protrusion. Each of the first protrusion and the second protrusion may have a trapezoidal shape with sloping sides. The first body may further include a circular depression, and the first protrusion may be located within the circular depression. The first body may include a plurality of indentations arranged in a circular arrangement around the first magnet, and the second body may include a plurality of protrusions arranged in a circular arrangement around the second magnet. The depression may be approximately circular. The protrusion may be approximately circular. The first body may further include a circular recess at least partially overlapping the recess, and the second body may further include a circular protrusion at least partially overlapping the protrusion.

[0008] The first body may include a ratchet and a pawl. The ratchet may include a central bore, and the second body may include a peg configured to be positioned within the central bore to couple the second body to the first body. The first body may include a first material, and the second body may include a second material releasably coupleable to the first material. The first body may include a protrusion, and the second body may include a recess configured to key with and couple to the protrusion via a press fit. The first body may include a first coupling protrusion with first and second extensions, each including a respective side opening. The second body may include a second coupling protrusion having a central protrusion, a first lateral protrusion, and a second lateral protrusion. Both the first lateral protrusion and the second lateral protrusion may be pivotable inward toward the central protrusion to couple or uncouple the first body and the second body. The first body may include a first receiving portion having a first slot, and the first connector may include a first narrowed portion configured to be positioned in the first slot. The second body may include a second receiving portion having a second slot, and the second connector may include a second narrowed portion configured to be positioned in the second slot.

[0009] In another embodiment, a medical system may include a first medical device, a second medical device, and a coupling device. The first medical device may include a first handle and a first insert, and the first handle may include a port. The second medical device may include a second handle and a second insert. At least a portion of the second insert may be configured to be inserted into the port. The coupling device may include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may include a first body, and the first body may include a first receiver with a first slot. The first slot may be configured to receive a portion of a first strap to couple the first handle to the first portion. The second portion may include a second body, and the second body may include a second receiver with a second slot. The second slot may be configured to receive a portion of a second strap to couple the second handle to the second portion. The first and second parts may be removably connectable, and when connected, the second part is rotatable relative to the first part, such as a second handle.

[0010] The medical system may include one or more of the following aspects: The first body may include a first coupling protrusion, and the second body may include a second coupling protrusion coupled to the first coupling protrusion. The first coupling protrusion may include a socket, and the second coupling protrusion may include a ball. The first body may include a first magnet, and the second body may include a second magnet of opposite polarity to the first magnet. The first body may include a plurality of first protrusions, and the second body may include a plurality of second protrusions configured to abut against and rotate relative to the first protrusions. Each of the first protrusions and the second protrusions may include a trapezoidal shape with sloping sides.

[0011] In a further embodiment, the coupling device can include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion can include a first body and a first strap. The first strap can extend from the first body and can be configured to couple a first medical device to the first portion. The first portion can include a socket extending from the first body. The second portion can include a second body and a second strap. The second strap can extend from the second body and can be configured to couple a second medical device to the second portion. The second portion can include a hollow ball configured to be positioned within the socket of the first portion. The first and second portions can be removably coupleable, and when coupled, the second portion can be pivotable relative to the first portion through a semi-spherical range of motion.

[0012] The coupling device may include one or more of the following features: The first body may include a first receiving portion having a first slot. The first strap may include a first narrow portion configured to be disposed in the first slot. The second body may include a second receiving portion having a second slot. The second strap may include a second narrow portion configured to be disposed in the second slot.

[0013] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present disclosure, as claimed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1A] 1A-1E show medical systems including a first medical device, a second medical device, and a coupling device in various configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] 1A-1E show medical systems including a first medical device, a second medical device, and a coupling device in various configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1C] 1A-1E show medical systems including a first medical device, a second medical device, and a coupling device in various configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1D] 1A-1E show medical systems including a first medical device, a second medical device, and a coupling device in various configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1E] 1A-1E show medical systems including a first medical device, a second medical device, and a coupling device in various configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] 2A-2E show another medical system including a first medical device, a second medical device, and another coupling device in various configurations according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] 2A-2E show another medical system including a first medical device, a second medical device, and another coupling device in various configurations according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2C] 2A-2E show another medical system including a first medical device, a second medical device, and another coupling device in various configurations according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2D] 2A-2E show another medical system including a first medical device, a second medical device, and another coupling device in various configurations according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2E] 2A-2E show another medical system including a first medical device, a second medical device, and another coupling device in various configurations according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] 3A and 3B are perspective views of another coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 3A and 3B are perspective views of another coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 4A and 4B are perspective views of yet another coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] 4A and 4B are perspective views of yet another coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] 5A and 5B are perspective views of a further coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 5A and 5B are perspective views of a further coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] 6A and 6B are perspective views of yet a further coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] 6A and 6B are perspective views of yet a further coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] 7A and 7B are perspective views of another coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 7A and 7B are perspective views of another coupling device in an uncoupled configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 8A and 8B are side views of a further coupling device in an uncoupled configuration and a coupled configuration, respectively, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 8A and 8B are side views of a further coupling device in an uncoupled configuration and a coupled configuration, respectively, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary aspects of the disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein to refer to the relative locations of components of exemplary medical systems and exemplary medical devices. As used herein, "proximal" refers to a location relatively close to the outside of a subject's body or relatively close to the medical professional using the medical system or medical device. In contrast, "distal" refers to a location relatively further away from the medical professional using the medical system or medical device or a location closer to the inside of a subject's body. The proximal and distal directions are labeled with arrows marked "P" and "D," respectively, throughout the various figures. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "having," "including," or other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a system, device, or method comprising a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may include elements not expressly enumerated or other elements not inherent thereto. Unless otherwise stated, the term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example" rather than "ideal." As used herein, the terms "about," "substantially," and "approximately" indicate a range of values ​​within + / - 10% of the stated value.

[0016] Embodiments of the present disclosure include devices, systems, and methods for manipulating, cutting, grasping, ligating, and / or otherwise treating tissue. In some examples, the devices, systems, and / or methods discussed herein may be used during endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and / or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) procedures. In examples, EMR and ESD involve the intraluminal placement of one or more devices for grasping and cutting tissue adjacent to a target area within a patient's body. The placement of one or more medical devices may be inserted into the GI tract through a natural orifice or incision via a catheter, a scope (such as an endoscope, bronchoscope, colonoscope, gastroscope, duodenoscope, etc.). The orifice may be, for example, the nose, mouth, or anus, and the placement may be in any portion of the GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, large intestine, or small intestine. The placement may also be within other organs accessible via the GI tract. In other aspects, one or more medical devices may be delivered via a catheter, scope (e.g., ureteroscope), tube, or sheath inserted into the urinary system through a natural orifice (e.g., the urethra) or an incision. Patient tissue may be grasped using suction from one or more medical devices and / or graspers, and the tissue may then be cut by a cutting device for subsequent removal from the patient's body. In an example, the devices, systems, and / or methods discussed herein may be utilized during a natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) procedure. In a NOTES procedure, a stent or other device may be delivered to create an opening between two body lumens (e.g., the stomach and small intestine). While EMR, ESD, and NOTES are discussed herein, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Embodiments of the present disclosure include systems and devices (and methods that may be implemented) that may be used in any suitable procedure in any body lumen or organ.

[0017] Reference will now be made in detail to the examples of the present disclosure described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. 1A-1E show various views of an exemplary medical system 100 including a first medical device 102 and a second medical device 104. The first medical device 102 and the second medical device 104 may be coupled (e.g., releasably coupled) via a coupling device 106. The first medical device 102 includes a handle 108 and an insert 110, and the second medical device 104 includes a handle 112 and an insert 114. In some embodiments, the handle 112 of the second medical device 104 may be coupled to the handle 108 of the first medical device 104 via the coupling device 106. Furthermore, the insert 110 of the first medical device 102 may be inserted into a subject, and the insert 114 of the second medical device 104 may be delivered through a portion of the insert 110, for example, via a port 116 or other opening in the handle 108 of the first medical device 102. As discussed in detail below, the coupling device 106 may allow the handle 112 of the second medical device 104 to be movable (e.g., pivotable, rotatable, etc.) relative to the handle 108 of the first medical device 102. Additionally, the coupling device 106 may allow the handle 112 of the second medical device 104 to be coupled to and uncoupled therefrom (e.g., completely removed and separated therefrom) the handle 108 of the first medical device 102.

[0018] The first medical device 102 includes a handle 108 and an insert 110 including a distal end (not shown). One or more lumens may extend from the handle 108 to the distal end, for example, through the insert 110. As described above, the handle 108 includes a port 116 or another opening that may connect to one or more lumens in the insert 110 through the handle 108. Furthermore, the handle 108 may include one or more knobs 118 and one or more actuators 120. For example, the knob 118 may be movable (rotatable or pivotable) to control the movement (e.g., deflection) of a distal portion of the insert 110. The handle 108 may also include one or more locking devices 122, for example, to fix the position of the knob 118 and, therefore, fix the position of the distal portion of the insert 110. Additionally, the actuator 120 may include one or more buttons or other types of actuators. The actuator 120 may be controlled to actuate the delivery of fluid, actuate the application of suction, actuate one or more lighting or imaging devices, etc. Additionally, the handle 108 may include one or more elevator actuators 124, for example, to control the position of an elevator disposed within the lumen of the insertion section 110.

[0019] First medical device 102 may include or be coupled to an umbilicus 126, for example, coupled to a proximal portion of handle 108. Umbilicus 126 may connect first medical device 102 to one or more of a control unit, a fluid source, a suction source, and / or other external devices such as a monitor for viewing images from a camera.

[0020] The second medical device 104 includes a handle 112 and an insert 114, which can be inserted through a port 116. Additionally, the handle 112 of the second medical device 104 can include a stationary portion 128 and a movable portion 130. In these embodiments, movement of the movable portion 130 relative to the stationary portion 128 can control one or more aspects of the second medical device 104. For example, the second medical device 104 can include one or more end effectors, and movement of the movable portion 130 can control the position, extension, configuration, etc. of the one or more end effectors. Additionally or alternatively, the handle 112 can include controls similar to the knob 118, the actuator 120, the locking device 122, or the elevator actuator 124, and the insert 114 can define one or more lumens for receiving other medical devices.

[0021] The coupling device 106 includes a first portion 132 and a second portion 134. The first portion 132 may be coupleable to the first medical device 102, and the second portion 134 may be coupleable to the second medical device 104. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1D , the first portion 132 may include a first connector or strap 136 and a first body 138. The first strap 136 may be configured to wrap around a portion of the handle 108. For example, one end of the first strap 136 may be fixedly coupled to a portion of the first body 138. As shown in more detail in FIG. 1D , another end of the first strap 136 may include a narrowed portion 140 and a widened portion 142, e.g., the widened portion 142 is at the other end. Additionally, a portion of the first body 138 may include a receiving portion 144, e.g., including a slot 146. In these embodiments, narrow portion 140 of first strap 136 may be positioned within slot 146 of receiver 144 to couple (e.g., removably couple) first body 138 to handle 108. Additionally, widened portion 142 may help securely couple first strap 136 to first body 138. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1D , one or more portions of widened portion 142 may include raised and / or recessed sections, for example, forming gripping surfaces 148. Thus, first strap 136 can be utilized to removably couple first portion 132 to first medical device 102. Alternatively, first portion 132 may be fixedly coupled to first medical device 102 (e.g., integral to handle 108).

[0022] The second portion 134 may be connectable to the second medical device 104. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1D , the second portion 134 may include a second connector or strap 150 and a second body 152. The second strap 150 may be configured to wrap around a portion of the handle 112. For example, one end of the second strap 150 may be fixedly connected to a portion of the second body 152. The other end of the second strap 150 may include a narrow portion 154 and a wide portion 156, e.g., the wide portion 156 is at the other end. Additionally, a portion of the first body 152 may include a receiving portion 158, e.g., including a slot 160. In these embodiments, the narrow portion 154 of the second strap 150 may be positioned within the slot 160 of the receiving portion 158 to connect (e.g., removably connect) the second body 152 to the handle 112. Additionally, widened portion 156 can help securely couple second strap 150 to second body 152. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1D , one or more portions of widened portion 156 can include raised and / or recessed sections, for example, forming gripping surface 162. Thus, second strap 150 can be utilized to removably couple second portion 134 to second medical device 104. Alternatively, second portion 134 may be fixedly coupled to second medical device 104 (e.g., integral to handle 112).

[0023] As described above, the same type of attachment mechanism (e.g., straps such as first strap 136 and second strap 150) can be used to couple first portion 132 to first medical device 102 and second portion 134 to second medical device 104. Alternatively, first portion 132 and second portion 134 may utilize alternative attachment mechanisms, and the attachment mechanisms used for first portion 132 and second portion 134 may differ from one another and may include mechanisms such as jaws, clips, ratchets, or other mechanisms.

[0024] Further, first portion 132 includes first coupling protrusion 164, and second portion 134 includes second coupling protrusion 166. In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1D, first coupling protrusion 164 may form a socket, and second coupling protrusion 166 may form a ball. Alternatively, first coupling protrusion 164 may form a ball, and second coupling protrusion 166 may form a socket. In either embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1E, the ball may be hollow, e.g., sized to pivotally fit within the socket, but hollow on the inside. For example, the ball may have a bowl-like shape. Additionally, in either embodiment, first portion 132 and second portion 134 can releasably couple first medical device 102 and second medical device 104 (e.g., via their respective handles). Thus, the first medical device 102 and / or the second medical device 104 may be rotated or otherwise repositioned relative to the other of the first medical device 102 and / or the second medical device 104, while helping to ensure that the first medical device 102 and the second medical device remain coupled together. Thus, as shown in Figures 1A-1E, the coupling device 106 allows the handle 112 of the second medical device 104 to rotate, for example, relative to the handle 108 of the first medical device 102, through a generally hemispherical range of motion.

[0025] Additionally, the first medical device 102 may be selectively coupled to the coupling device 106, for example, via the first portion 132 and the first strap 136. Similarly, the second medical device 104 may be selectively coupled to the coupling device 106, for example, via the second portion 134 and the second strap 150. Additionally, the first coupling protrusion 164 and the second coupling protrusion 166 may be decoupled (e.g., by removing the ball from the socket). Decoupling the first coupling protrusion 164 and the second coupling protrusion 166 allows a user (or another user) to operate the second medical device 104 at a location remote from the first medical device 102, to replace the second medical device 104 with a new medical device (e.g., a new second portion 134), or otherwise provide flexibility in the use of the medical system 100.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first medical device 102 may be a gastroscope. Alternatively, the first medical device 102 may be one of other similar insertion devices with a handle, such as, for example, an endoscope, ureteroscope, duodenoscope, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) scope, colonoscope, bronchoscope, laparoscope, arthroscope, cystoscope, suction scope, etc. Additionally, the second medical device 104 may be, for example, a stent delivery device having a stent releasably disposed at the distal end of the insertion section 114, such that manipulation of the handle 112 (e.g., of the movable section 130) controls the deployment, delivery, or positioning of the stent. Alternatively, the second medical device 104 may be one of other end effector devices (e.g., a grasper, a clamp, a clip, an electrosurgical knife or other electrocautery device, a retrieval device, a hemostatic patch, etc.). The second medical device may alternatively be a scope, such as a cholangioscope.

[0027] 2A-2E show another exemplary medical system 200 including, for example, a first medical device 202, a second medical device 204, and a coupling device 206. First medical device 202 includes a handle 208 and an insert 210, and second medical device 204 includes a handle 212 and an insert 214. As discussed herein, coupling device 206 can selectively couple handle 208 of first medical device 202 to handle 212 of second medical device 204. Furthermore, insert 214 of second medical device 204 may be delivered through insert 210 of first medical device 202, for example, via port 216. Furthermore, first medical device 202 and second medical device 204 can include one or more of the features described above with respect to first medical device 102 and second medical device 104 of FIGS. 1A-1E.

[0028] Coupling device 206 includes a first portion 232 and a second portion 234. As described above, first portion 232 can include a first connector or strap 236 and a first body 238 such that first strap 236 can be wrapped around first medical device 202 (e.g., around handle 208) and secured to first body 238 to couple first portion 232 to first medical device 202. Additionally, second portion 234 can include a second connector or strap 250 and a second body 252 such that second strap 250 can be wrapped around second medical device 204 (e.g., around handle 212) and secured to second body 252 to couple second portion 234 to second medical device 204.

[0029] 2A and 2D, first portion 232 and second portion 234 may, for example, at least partially abut at joint 270. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, first portion 232 and second portion 234 can releasably couple first medical device 202 and second medical device 204 (e.g., via their respective handles). Thus, first medical device 202 and / or second medical device 204 may be rotated or otherwise repositioned relative to the other of first medical device 202 and / or second medical device 204, while helping to ensure that first medical device 202 and second medical device 204 remain coupled together. Thus, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, coupling device 206 allows handle 212 of second medical device 204 to rotate relative to handle 208 of first medical device 202, for example, through a substantially circular range of motion. As described below, coupling device 206 may allow the positioning of handle 212 relative to handle 208 to be at least partially or temporarily fixed in various positions. Additionally, first medical device 202 may be selectively coupled to coupling device 206, for example, via first portion 232 and first strap 236 (see FIGS. 2A and 2D ). Similarly, second medical device 204 may be selectively coupled to coupling device 206, for example, via second portion 234 and second strap 250. Furthermore, as described below, first medical device 202 and first portion 232 may be separated from second medical device 204 and second portion 234, for example, by separating first portion 232 and second portion 234 at joint 270.

[0030] 2E shows first portion 232 and second portion 234 of coupling device 206 separated, such that first medical device 202 and second medical device 204 are separated. Specifically, FIG. 2E shows respective portions of first portion 232 and second portion 234 abutting (e.g., at junction 270 in FIGS. 2A and 2D ) and interacting to allow relative movement of handle 212 with respect to handle 208. In some embodiments, first portion 232 can include first magnet 272 and second portion 234 can include second magnet 274. In these embodiments, first magnet 272 and second magnet 274 are of opposite polarity. Thus, while the magnets 272, 274 may help maintain the connection between the first portion 232 and the second portion 234, they also allow the user to separate the first portion 232 and the second portion 234 by pulling them apart with enough force to overcome the magnetic attraction of the magnets 272, 274.

[0031] 2E, the first portion 232 may include, for example, a plurality of first protrusions 276 arranged at least partially in a circular / circumferential direction around the first magnet 272. Additionally, the second portion 234 may include, for example, a plurality of second protrusions 278 arranged at least partially in a circular / circumferential direction around the second magnet 274. As shown in FIG. 2E, each of the first protrusions 276 and the second protrusions 278 may be, for example, generally trapezoidal in shape with sides 276A, 278A that narrow in a direction toward the first magnet 272 or the second magnet 274. Additionally, side surfaces 276A and 278A may be angled, for example (as shown in FIG. 2E ), such that an upper region of first protrusion 276 and second protrusion 278 located away from handle 208 / handle 212 is narrower than a lower region of the corresponding first protrusion 276 and second protrusion 278 nearer to handle 208 / handle 212. First protrusions 276 may be spaced apart by first gap 280, and second protrusions 276 may be spaced apart by second gap 282. In these embodiments, when first portion 232 and second portion 234 are coupled together (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2A-2D ), first protrusion 276 may be received within second gap 282, and second protrusion 278 may be received within first gap 280, which may help secure the position of handle 212 relative to handle 208.

[0032] In some embodiments, first portion 232 may include a recess 284, e.g., a circular recess surrounding first magnet 272. That is, first magnet 272 may protrude outward relative to recess 284. First protrusion 276 and first gap 280 may be positioned within recess 284 such that when first protrusion 276 is positioned within second gap 282 and when second protrusion 278 is positioned within first gap 280, first portion 232 and second portion 234 may abut at joint 270. Alternatively or additionally, although not shown, second protrusion 278 and second gap 282 may be disposed within the recess. Alternatively, second magnet 274 may be depressed relative to second gap 282.

[0033] As shown, first portion 232 may include nine first protrusions 276 and nine first gaps 280, and second portion 234 may include nine second protrusions 278 and nine second gaps 282. Alternatively, first portion 232 and second portion 234 may include fewer or more protrusions and gaps. In some embodiments, first portion 232 and second portion 234 include the same number of protrusions and gaps. In other embodiments, first portion 232 and second portion 234 include different numbers of protrusions and gaps.

[0034] Additionally, angled sides 276A and 278A may help to allow a user to rotate handle 212 relative to handle 208. For example, a user may rotate handle 212 and / or second portion 234 clockwise or counterclockwise, and the abutting sides 276A, 278A of respective protrusions 276, 278 may guide or angle second portion 234 away from first portion 232, which may help to enable rotation of second portion 234. For example, as handle 212 and / or second portion 234 rotates, protrusions 278 can rotate relative to protrusions 276. Thus, one side of each protrusion 278 can abut one side of a corresponding protrusion 276. Respective angled sides 276A, 278A may angle or guide protrusion 278 away from protrusion 276, pushing second portion 234 away from first portion 232 (e.g., laterally relative to handle 208). First magnet 272 and second magnet 274 may help ensure that second portion 234 remains in close proximity to first portion 232, even when second portion 234 is not in abutting contact with first portion 232. Furthermore, when second portion 234 is rotated such that protrusions 276, 278 are disposed within corresponding gaps 280, 282, first magnet 272 and second magnet 274 can help hold second portion 234 in abutting contact with first portion 232. The first magnet 272 and the second magnet 274 may also help to maintain the position and / or orientation of the second portion 234 relative to the first portion 232, and therefore may also help to maintain the position and / or orientation of the handle 212 relative to the handle 208.

[0035] Alternatively, although not shown, one of the first portion 232 or the second portion 234 can include a protrusion, and the other of the first portion 232 or the second portion 234 can include, for example, a recess of a shape and size complementary to the protrusion. In this embodiment, both the protrusion and the recess can have, for example, a generally trapezoidal shape with sloping sides, as described above. The protrusion and the recess can help to fix the position of the second portion 234 relative to the first portion 232 while also allowing relative rotation.

[0036] 3A and 3B, for example, illustrate an embodiment of an alternative coupling device 306 for rotatably coupling a first medical device handle and a second medical device handle. As such, coupling device 306 includes a first portion 332 and a second portion 334. First portion 332 can include a first body 338, and second portion 334 can include a second body 352. Although not shown, coupling device 306 can include a first connector or strap and a second connector or strap (or alternative attachment mechanism), as described above. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, second portion 334 can include a second coupling slot 386B for receiving a portion of a second strap and a slot 360 for releasably coupling second portion 334 to a second medical device. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3B, the first portion 332 may include a first coupling slot 386A for receiving a portion of the first strap and a slot 346 for releasably coupling the first portion 332 to the first medical device.

[0037] 3A , the first portion 332 can include a first magnet 372 and a plurality of recesses 388. The recesses 388 can be positioned, for example, in a circular / circumferential arrangement around (e.g., spaced apart from) the first magnet 372. In some embodiments, as shown, the recesses 388 are evenly spaced apart around the first magnet 372. In other embodiments, the recesses 388 can be unevenly spaced apart around the first magnet 372. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first portion 332 can include, for example, 18 recesses 388 (as shown). Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first portion 332 can include fewer or more recesses 388.

[0038] 3B, the second portion 334 may include a second magnet 374 and a plurality of protrusions 376. The protrusions 376 may be positioned in a circular arrangement around the second magnet 374, e.g., around (e.g., spaced apart from) the second magnet 374. In some embodiments, the protrusions 376 are evenly spaced apart around the second magnet 374. In other embodiments, the protrusions 376 may be unevenly spaced apart around the second magnet 374. In some embodiments, as shown, the second portion 334 may include four protrusions 376 (as shown). Alternatively, in other embodiments, the second portion 334 may include fewer or more protrusions 376. For example, in some embodiments, the second portion 334 may include the same number of protrusions 376 as the first portion 332 includes recesses 388.

[0039] Protrusion 376 may be sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to be disposed within one of the recesses 388, for example, to help secure the position of second portion 334 relative to first portion 332. In some embodiments, recess 388 may be generally circular (e.g., a cylindrical or spherical recess), and protrusion 376 may be a generally cylindrical or spherical protrusion. Additionally, second portion 336 may be rotated relative to first portion 332 such that protrusion 376 is repositioned within a different recess 388.

[0040] It should be noted that the arrangement of coupling device 306 may be reversed. For example, instead of the configuration shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , first portion 332 may include protrusion 376, and second portion 334 may include recess 388. In any of these embodiments, protrusion 376 and recess 388 may help secure the position of second portion 334 relative to first portion 332 while also allowing relative rotation. In some embodiments, second portion 334 includes circular protrusion 392. Circular protrusion 392 may connect with and / or at least partially overlap each of protrusions 376. For example, protrusion 376 may extend a greater amount or distance from the remainder of second body 352 of second portion 334 than circular protrusion 392. Alternatively, second portion 334 may not include circular protrusion 392, and protrusion 376 may extend from a flat surface of second body 352. In any of these embodiments, the protrusion 376 may at least partially connect with or overlap the recess 388 .

[0041] 4A and 4B show perspective views of another coupling device 406 for rotatably coupling, for example, a first medical device handle and a second medical device handle. Coupling device 406 is similar to coupling device 306, except as noted below. Specifically, coupling device 406 includes a first portion 432 and a second portion 434. First portion 432 includes a first magnet 472 and a plurality of recesses 488 positioned around first magnet 472, for example, in a circular arrangement. Second portion 434 includes a second magnet 474 and a plurality of protrusions 476, the protrusions configured to be received within one or more of the recesses 488. In some embodiments, second portion 434 can include a fewer number of protrusions 476 than the number of recesses 488 of first portion 432. In these embodiments, the amount of force required to rotate the second portion 434 relative to the first portion 432 when the second portion 434 includes a fewer number of protrusions 476 may be less than the amount of force required to rotate the second portion 434 relative to the first portion 432 when the second portion 434 includes a greater number of protrusions 476. Additionally, the second portion 434 may be able to rotate more quickly relative to the first portion 432 when the second portion 434 includes fewer protrusions 476 compared to when the second portion 434 includes a greater number of protrusions 476.

[0042] 4A , first portion 432 includes a circular recess 490, and second portion 434 includes a circular protrusion 492. Circular recess 490 may connect with and / or at least partially overlap each of recesses 488. For example, recess 488 may extend inward from circular recess 490 into first portion 432. That is, circular recess 490 includes a shallower depth than recess 488. Furthermore, circular protrusion 492 may connect with and / or at least partially overlap each of protrusions 476. For example, protrusion 476 may extend farther from the remainder of second body 452 of second portion 434 by a greater amount or distance than circular protrusion 492. In these embodiments, the circular recess 490 and / or the circular protrusion 492 can help maintain a connection between the second portion 434 and the first portion 432 during movement of the second portion 434 relative to the first portion 432.

[0043] 4A and 4B, first portion 432 can include protrusion 476 and circular protrusion 492, and second portion 434 can include recess 488 and circular recess 490. In any of these embodiments, protrusion 476, recess 488, circular recess 490, and circular protrusion 492 can help to fix the position of second portion 434 relative to first portion 432 while also allowing for relative rotation.

[0044] It should be noted that the size and / or shape of the first and second magnets of coupling devices 206, 306, and 406 may be modified. For example, the size and / or shape of the first and second magnets may be modified to adjust the holding force exerted by the first and second magnets between the first and second portions of coupling devices 206, 306, and 406. In one embodiment, the depth and / or radius of the first and second magnets may be increased to increase the holding force between the first and second portions of coupling devices 206, 306, and 406. Alternatively, the depth and / or radius of the first and second magnets may be decreased to decrease the holding force between the first and second portions of coupling devices 206, 306, and 406. While circular magnets are shown, it will be understood that the magnets may have alternative shapes, and the protrusions / recesses of coupling devices 206, 306, 406 may extend around their peripheries or retain a circular arrangement.

[0045] 5A and 5B are perspective views of another coupling device 506 for rotatably coupling, for example, a first medical device handle and a second medical device handle. Coupling device 506 is similar to coupling device 306, except as noted below. Specifically, coupling device 506 includes a first portion 532 and a second portion 534. First portion 532 includes a first body 538, and second portion 534 includes a second body 552. Additionally, as noted above, the features of first portion 532 and second portion 534 may be reversed.

[0046] 5A, the first portion 532 may include a cogwheel or ratchet 594 and a pawl 596. The ratchet 594 includes a central bore 594A and a plurality of teeth 594B, e.g., extending radially outward from the ratchet 594. Although not shown, the ratchet 594 may be rotatable about an internal ball bearing. Additionally, the pawl 596 may be pivotable, e.g., via a spring opening 596A. Alternatively, the pawl 596 may be formed by a strip of material (e.g., a strip of metal) that may selectively engage the teeth of the ratchet.

[0047] Second portion 534 may include a central extension or peg 598 ( FIG. 5B ) that may be selectively positioned within central bore 594A of ratchet 594. In some embodiments, positioning peg 598 within central bore 594A may serve to form a pivotable or rotatable snap fit, for example, to couple second portion 534 to first portion 532. Peg 598 may frictionally engage central bore 594A, thereby rotating ratchet 594 as peg 598 / second portion 534 rotates.

[0048] In these embodiments, rotation of second portion 534 can also rotate ratchet 594, for example, clockwise or counterclockwise. However, pawl 596 may limit the rotation of ratchet 594, for example, by interacting with tooth 594B, thus limiting the rotation of second portion 534 with a single "click" formed by the next tooth of ratchet 594. In some embodiments, pawl 596 may interact with ratchet 594 to allow ratchet 594 to rotate only in one direction (e.g., either clockwise or counterclockwise). In these embodiments, coupling device 506 may include a release mechanism (not shown) to allow rotation in either direction and / or to reset the position of ratchet 594 relative to pawl 596. Alternatively, in other embodiments, pawl 596 can interact with ratchet 594 to allow rotation in two directions (e.g., both clockwise and counterclockwise). In any of these embodiments, the ratchet 594 may include a greater number of teeth 594B (e.g., smaller teeth 594B extending from the ratchet 594) to provide finer or smaller incremental adjustments between the relative positions of the first portion 532 and the second portion 534. Alternatively, the ratchet 594 may include a fewer number of teeth 594B (e.g., larger teeth 594B extending from the ratchet 594) to allow for coarser or larger incremental adjustments between the relative positions of the first portion 532 and the second portion 534.

[0049] Additionally, the interaction of the pawl 596 with the teeth 594B of the ratchet 594 may help to fix the position of the second portion 534 relative to the first portion 532 unless actuated by a user. The interaction of the pawl 596 with the teeth 594B of the ratchet 594 may also provide audible and / or tactile feedback to the user regarding the rotation of the second portion 534 relative to the first portion 532. Additionally, the first portion 532 and the second portion 534 may be decoupled by, for example, pulling one of the first portion 532 or the second portion 534 from the other of the first portion 532 or the second portion 534 to decouple the peg 598 from the central hole 594A. Alternatively, or additionally, the first portion 532 and the second portion 534 may be decoupled by inserting a rod between the first portion 532 and the second portion 534 and, for example, prying the first portion 532 and the second portion 534 apart.

[0050] Although not shown, in some embodiments, first portion 532 and second portion 534 can include respective magnets (e.g., similar to the first and second magnets described above). In one embodiment, the magnet for first portion 532 can be positioned within ratchet 594. The magnet for second portion 534 can be positioned adjacent to and / or within peg 598. The magnets can help maintain a connection between first portion 532 and second portion 534, for example, while first portion 532 and second portion 534 are rotated relative to one another. In these embodiments, ratchet 594, center hole 594A, teeth 594B, pawl 596, spring opening 596A, and / or peg 598 can help secure the position of second portion 534 relative to first portion 532 while also allowing relative rotation.

[0051] 6A and 6B are perspective views of another coupling device 606 for rotatably coupling, for example, a first medical device handle and a second medical device handle. Coupling device 606 is similar to coupling device 506, except as noted below. Specifically, coupling device 606 includes a first portion 632 and a second portion 634. First portion 632 includes a first body 638, and second portion 634 includes a second body 652.

[0052] Coupling device 606 is similar to coupling device 506, except as noted below. For example, first portion 632 may include a ratchet (not shown) and pawl 696. Although not shown, the ratchet may be rotatable about an internal ball bearing. First portion 632 may include a first Velcro® or hook and loop material 601 (“first material 601”), and second portion 634 may also include a second Velcro® or hook and loop material 603 (“second material 603”). In some embodiments, first material 601 is disposed on a surface of the ratchet (not shown in FIGS. 6A-6B). First material 601 and second material 603 may be the same material. Alternatively, one of first material 601 or second material 603 may include multiple hooks, and the other of first material 601 or second material 603 may include multiple loops. In these embodiments, first material 601 and second material 603 can help releasably couple first portion 632 to second portion 634. Alternatively, first portion 632 and second portion 634 can include one or more other materials that can interact to releasably couple first portion 632 and second portion 634.

[0053] Rotation of the second portion 634 relative to the first body 638 may rotate the ratchet relative to the pawl 696. As described above, the pawl 696 may limit the rotation of the ratchet, for example, by interacting with a tooth, and thus limit the rotation of the second portion 634 with a single “click” formed by the next tooth on the ratchet. Furthermore, the interaction of the pawl 696 with the teeth on the ratchet may help to fix the position of the second portion 634 relative to the first portion 632 unless acted upon by a user. Furthermore, the first portion 632 and the second portion 634 may be decoupled by decoupling the first material 601 and the second material 603, for example, by pulling one of the first portion 632 or the second portion 634 from the other of the first portion 632 or the second portion 634. Alternatively, or additionally, the first portion 632 and the second portion 634 may be decoupled by inserting a rod between the first portion 632 and the second portion 634, for example, by prying the first portion 632 and the second portion 634 apart.

[0054] 7A and 7B are perspective views of another coupling device 706 for rotatably coupling, for example, a first medical device handle and a second medical device handle. Specifically, coupling device 706 includes a first portion 732 and a second portion 734. First portion 732 includes a first body 738, and second portion 734 includes a second body 752.

[0055] Coupling device 706 is similar to coupling device 506, except as noted below. For example, first portion 732 may include a ratchet (not shown) and pawl 796. Although not shown, the ratchet may be rotatable about an internal ball bearing. First portion 732 may also include a protrusion 776, and second portion 734 may also include a recess 788. Protrusion 776 may extend from first body 738 and may form a geometric or polygonal shape. Protrusion 776 may be coupled to the ratchet such that rotation of protrusion 776 rotates the ratchet. Recess 788 may extend into second body 752 and may also form a geometric or polygonal shape. For example, protrusion 776 may be hexagonal in shape, as shown. Alternatively, protrusion 776 may be triangular, quadrilateral, rectangular (e.g., square), pentagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, etc. Recess 788 may be a shape that corresponds to protrusion 776, for example, if protrusion 776 is hexagonally shaped, protrusion 776 may also be hexagonally shaped. In these embodiments, first portion 732 and second portion 734 of coupling device 706 may be coupled via a press fit between protrusion 776 and recess 788. Protrusion 776 may be keyed to recess 788. Thus, when protrusion 776 is inserted into recess 788, rotation of second body 752 (and recess 788) may thereby cause rotation of protrusion 776.

[0056] Rotation of the second portion 734 relative to the first body 738 may rotate the ratchet relative to the pawl 796. As described above, the pawl 796 may limit the rotation of the ratchet, for example, by interacting with a tooth, and thus limit the rotation of the second portion 734 with a single “click” formed by the next tooth on the ratchet. Furthermore, the interaction of the pawl 796 with the teeth on the ratchet may help to fix the position of the second portion 734 relative to the first portion 732 unless acted upon by a user. Furthermore, the first portion 732 and the second portion 734 may be decoupled by separating the protrusion 776 and the recess 788, for example, by pulling one of the first portion 732 or the second portion 734 from the other of the first portion 732 or the second portion 734. Alternatively, or additionally, the first portion 732 and the second portion 734 may be decoupled by inserting a rod between the first portion 732 and the second portion 734, for example, by prying the first portion 732 and the second portion 734 apart.

[0057] 8A and 8B are side views of another coupling device 806 for rotatably coupling, for example, a first medical device handle and a second medical device handle. Specifically, coupling device 806 includes a first portion 832 and a second portion 834. First portion 832 includes a first body 838, and second portion 834 includes a second body 852. Coupling device 806 is similar to coupling devices 306 and 506, except as noted below. For example, although not shown, coupling device 806 can include respective straps, slots, etc. for coupling first portion 832 and second portion 834 to the respective medical devices.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B , the first portion 832 includes a first coupling protrusion 864, and the second portion 834 includes a second coupling protrusion 866. The first coupling protrusion 864 can include a first extension 864A and a second extension 864B, which can form an opening, e.g., a Y-shaped opening 864C. Additionally, the sides (e.g., the lateral sides in FIGS. 8A and 8B ) of the first extension 864A and the second extension 864B can include side openings 864D and 864E, respectively. Furthermore, each of the first extension 864A and the second extension 864B can be hollow or otherwise include an internal slot or opening that can receive, for example, a portion of the second coupling protrusion 866.

[0059] The second coupling protrusion 866 may include a central prong 866A and one or more lateral protrusions, e.g., a first lateral protrusion 866B and a second lateral protrusion 866C. The first lateral protrusion 866B and the second lateral protrusion 866C may be pivotable inward toward the central protrusion 866A, for example. As shown in FIG. 8B , when the second coupling protrusion 866 is coupled to the first coupling protrusion 864, the central protrusion 866A may be positioned within the opening 864C, for example, to clip the second coupling protrusion 866 into the first coupling protrusion. Additionally, respective portions of the first lateral protrusion 866B and the second lateral protrusion 866C may be positioned within the lateral openings 864D, 864E of the first extension 864A and the second extension 864B. First portion 832 and second portion 834 may be uncoupled by pushing first lateral protrusions 866B and second lateral protrusions 866C inward (e.g., toward central protrusion 866A) and pulling one or more of first portion 832 or second portion 834 away from the other of first portion 832 or second portion 834. Furthermore, it should be noted that the features of first portion 832 and second portion 834 may be reversed, for example, so that first portion 832 includes protrusions 866A-866C and second portion 834 includes extensions 864A and 864B.

[0060] Additionally, first coupling protrusion 864 may be rotatable relative to first body 838. Alternatively, although not shown, second coupling protrusion 866 may be rotatable relative to second body 852. In these embodiments, one or more of first portion 832 or second portion 834 may include, for example, a ratchet and pawl mechanism similar to the ratchet and pawl mechanisms and / or ball bearings described above.

[0061] Various aspects discussed herein may help shorten procedure time, increase tissue treatment efficacy, reduce risk to a subject, and the like. Various aspects of the present disclosure may enable one or more users to use multiple endoscopic instruments for tissue resection or otherwise providing treatment to a subject. In some cases, as discussed herein, a second medical device may be coupled to and / or inserted through a portion of a first medical device to allow a single user to hold and / or manipulate both the first and second medical devices, for example, to treat a treatment site. Additionally, as discussed herein, coupling a second medical device to a first medical device and / or inserting the second medical device through a first device eliminates restrictions on the movement of the second medical device relative to the first medical device. As a result, a user may experience less fatigue, a greater range of motion, and the like. Additionally, the second medical device may be detached from the first medical device and later reattached to the first medical device, for example, for manipulation by another user. Alternatively, or additionally, the second medical device may be decoupled from the first medical device and another second medical device may be coupled to the first medical device and operated by the user.

[0062] It should also be understood that one or more aspects of any of the medical devices, systems, and methods described herein may be used to grasp, cut, dissect, treat, ablate, or otherwise manipulate tissue within any part of the human body. For example, any of the medical devices described herein may be used in medical procedures such as endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), cancer treatment, kidney or bladder biopsy or resection, and / or other procedures requiring tissue removal, resection, dissection, fulguration, and / or ablation.

[0063] Although the above-described exemplary embodiments are disclosed in connection with a medical device for manipulating and cutting human tissue through one or more working channels of the medical device, through a natural orifice, or by incision, those skilled in the art will understand that the principles described above can be applied to any medical device or medical method and can be implemented in different ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, as defined by the claims. In particular, structural details, including manufacturing techniques and materials, are within the understanding of those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail herein. These and other modifications and variations are well within the scope of the present disclosure and can be envisioned and implemented by those skilled in the art.

[0064] Furthermore, while certain exemplary embodiments have been illustrated and described herein in their entirety, it should be understood that any subsequent configurations designed to achieve the same or similar purposes may be substituted for the specific embodiments described and illustrated herein. The present disclosure is intended to encompass any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the description.

[0065] While the principles of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to illustrative embodiments for particular applications, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art and with access to the teachings provided herein will recognize that there are further modifications, applications, embodiments, and equivalent substitutions, all within the scope of the embodiments described herein. Accordingly, the present disclosure should not be deemed limited by the foregoing description.

[0066] Other exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, and that departures in form and detail can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A coupling device for a medical system, the coupling device comprising: a first portion including a first body and a first connector, the first connector extending from the first body and configured to couple a first medical device to the first portion; a second portion including a second body and a second connector, the second connector extending from the second body and configured to couple a second medical device to the second portion; Equipped with A coupling device wherein the first portion and the second portion are removably coupleable and, when coupled, the second portion is rotatable relative to the first portion.

2. The coupling device of claim 1 , wherein the first body includes a first coupling protrusion and the second body includes a second coupling protrusion configured to be coupled to the first coupling protrusion.

3. The coupling device of claim 2 , wherein the first coupling protrusion comprises a socket and the second coupling protrusion comprises a ball.

4. The coupling device of claim 1 , wherein the first body includes a first magnet and the second body includes a second magnet of opposite polarity to the first magnet.

5. 5. The coupling device of claim 4, wherein the first body includes a plurality of first protrusions, and the second body includes a plurality of second protrusions configured to abut the first protrusions and rotate relative to the first protrusions.

6. The coupling device of claim 5 , wherein the first protrusion and the second protrusion each include a trapezoidal shape with sloping sides.

7. The coupling device of claim 5 , wherein the first body further includes a circular recess, and the first protrusion is disposed within the circular recess.

8. 8. The coupling device of claim 4, wherein the first body includes a plurality of recesses positioned in a circular arrangement around the first magnet, and the second body includes a plurality of protrusions in a circular arrangement around the second magnet.

9. 9. The coupling device of claim 8, wherein the recess is substantially circular, the protrusion is substantially circular, the first body further includes a circular recess that at least partially overlaps the recess, and the second body further includes a circular protrusion that at least partially overlaps the protrusion.

10. The coupling device of claim 1 , wherein the first body includes a ratchet and a pawl.

11. The coupling device of claim 10 , wherein the ratchet includes a central hole, and the second body includes a peg configured to be positioned within the central hole to couple the second body to the first body.

12. 12. The coupling device of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the first body comprises a first material and the second body comprises a second material releasably coupleable to the first material.

13. The coupling device of claim 1 , wherein the first body includes a protrusion and the second body includes a recess configured to key and be coupled to the protrusion via a press fit.

14. the first body includes a first coupling projection having first and second extensions each including a corresponding side opening; 2. The coupling device of claim 1, wherein the second body includes a second coupling projection having a central protrusion, a first lateral protrusion, and a second lateral protrusion, both of which are pivotable inwardly toward the central protrusion to couple or uncouple the first body and the second body.

15. the first body includes a first receiving portion having a first slot, and the first connector includes a first narrow portion configured to be positioned within the first slot; 15. The coupling device of claim 1, wherein the second body includes a second receiving portion having a second slot, and the second connector includes a second narrow portion configured to be positioned within the second slot.

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