Sample collection cassette for collecting tissue samples from fluid flow during medical surgery

Abstract

To provide a system and a method on a system and a method for recovering a tissue sample generated during a surgical operation.SOLUTION: There is provided a cassette (2600) used together with a medical waste collection system. The cassette includes a housing (2602 and 2612). The housing is formed to be removably attached to a receptacle integrated with the housing. A sleeve (2640) is attached to the cassette in a manner to be positioned in front of the housing. The sleeve is formed with a void space. A fixing tool (2664) for collection for a suction line is attached to the sleeve. A screen is removably mounted in the void space of the sleeve. The screen is mounted in the void space of the sleeve when it is desirable to capture a tissue likely to be mixed in the fluid flow from the suction line.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 57

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a system and method for collecting waste generated during surgery and for retrieving tissue samples generated during surgery. More particularly, the present invention relates to a system and method for retrieving tissue samples from the gastrointestinal tract during surgery such as colonoscopy.

Background Art

[0002] By-products resulting from the performance of some medical and surgical procedures include liquid waste, semi-solid waste, and solid waste. This waste includes body fluids such as blood and irrigation solutions introduced into the body site where the surgery is being performed. Solid and semi-solid waste generated during surgery includes tissue pieces and small pieces of surgical material that may remain at the surgical site. The waste is desirably collected at the time it is generated so that it does not visually obstruct the surgical site, does not contaminate the surgical site, and does not become a biohazard in the operating room or other location where the surgery is being performed.

[0003] Many systems for collecting this waste when it is generated are available to surgeons. Generally, these units include a suction source, a conduit extending from the suction source, and a storage unit between the conduit and the suction source. When the system is activated, waste is drawn through the distal end of the conduit. By suction, the waste is drawn through the conduit and into the storage unit where it is stored. One such system is the "NEPTUNE" surgical waste collection system by the assignee of the present application. ​ This particular system comprises a mobile unit with a suction pump and two canisters. Piping is connected to each canister via a removable manifold. Since this unit is movable, it can be placed relatively close to the patient on whom the surgery is being performed. This can reduce the extent to which the suction piping (which would otherwise constantly clutter the operating room) is present around the surgeon. Also, this system has features that reduce the degree to which the surgeon and assistants are exposed to the materials collected by the system. Patent Document 1 published on November 24, 2009, shows many features of this system. The content of this patent is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] The feature of this system lies in the suction manifold. This manifold is provided with a filter element that captures large solid material pieces. This is desirable because these solids could potentially clog the components located on the proximal side of the system. Furthermore, the manifold is formed from a material that enables the manifold to be disposable. After use of the system, there is no need to expend effort to sterilize the narrow conduit or the manifold with its internal filter. Instead, the personnel handling the used manifold only need to contact the outer surface of this component. This process will further minimize the degree to which these personnel are exposed to the waste material. Patent Document 2 by the assignor of the present application published on November 10, 2009, describes this type of manifold in more detail. The content of this patent is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Document

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In some surgical procedures such as colonoscopy, it is desirable to collect one or more tissue samples from the patient during the surgery. The tissue samples are typically sent to a laboratory and are either automatically analyzed or manually analyzed by an expert such as a pathologist. In this case, in order to collect the tissue sample, the tubing that connects the medical device used to apply suction to the patient to the storage container is manually blocked. Then, another device is arranged in series with this tubing so as to be located upstream of the storage container. The tissue sample is captured within this device. Then, this device is removed and the tubing from the suction application device is directly reconnected to the storage container. By repeatedly connecting and blocking the tubing during the collection of multiple samples, extra time will be required until the surgery is completed. When the tubing is blocked, a small amount of uncollected liquid waste and semi-solid waste adhering to the inside of the tubing may be released into the surrounding environment, potentially contaminating the floor and other surfaces of the surgical facility.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The present invention provides a method for collecting tissue samples during medical and surgical procedures such as colonoscopy relates to a novel and useful system and method for a system and method for the purpose. The system of the present invention stem includes a movable unit to which both a perfusion fluid source and a container for collecting waste are connected. A removable cassette is adapted to be attached to the movable unit. In many aspects of the present invention, the cassette is adapted to be seated within a receptacle that is a structural component of the waste collection unit. The cassette has a fixture for receiving a suction line extending from a suction applying device. The cassette also has an outlet within the waste collection unit container. A tissue trap is adapted to be removably attached to the cassette. The tissue trap is adapted to be selectively arranged in series with the fluid drawn through the cassette by suction. The trap includes a filter for capturing tissue entrained in the fluid flow drawn into the movable unit.

[0008] In some aspects of the present invention, the tissue trap is adapted to be selectively attached to the cassette. In these aspects of the present invention, when the tissue trap is not attached to the cassette, the fluid flow is adapted to flow into the container through a first set of conduits within the cassette. When it is desirable to remove a tissue sample from the fluid flow, the tissue trap is temporarily attached to the cassette. Thereby, the fluid flows through the trap. Accordingly, the tissue is retained in the trap as the remainder of the material entrained in the waste flow to the cassette.

[0009] In other aspects of the present invention, the tissue trap is adapted to be removably attached to the cassette, but is attached to the cassette even when there is no need to collect tissue. ​ are adapted. In these aspects of the present invention, one or more valves are adapted to regulate the path within the cassette through which the waste flows. If there is no need to collect tissue, one or more valves are placed in bypass mode. When the valve is in bypass mode, the fluid flow does not pass through the trap. When tissue collection is desired, one or more valves are set to the tissue collection mode. When one or more valves are in this mode, the fluid flow will pass through the tissue trap before being discharged into the waste collection canister. The tissue will be blocked from the downstream flow into the waste collection canister by a filter integral with the trap.

[0010] In each aspect of the present invention, once the tissue is trapped in one trap, it is possible to attach other traps to the cassette. This allows multiple samples to be captured by attaching only a single cassette to the waste collection unit during a single surgery. Since only a single cassette is used, there is no need to constantly disconnect and reconnect the suction tube from various cassettes during the surgery.

[0011] The present invention is specifically pointed out in the claims. The above features and further features and advantages of the present invention will be understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] [I. Appearance] Figure 1A shows the waste and tissue collection system 30 constructed according to the present invention . The system 30, which may also be referred to as a mobile unit or rover, includes a base 32 It exists. Usually, the cover assembly and the door assembly hide the components of the movable unit 30, but in order to make these components visible, the cover assembly and the door assembly are omitted in Figure 1A. The wheels 34 attached to the bottom of the base 32 provide mobility to the system. Two canisters 36, 38 are attached to the base 32. Among these canisters, the first canister 36 has a relatively large internal volume between approximately 10 liters and 40 liters. The second canister 38 has a smaller volume between approximately 1 liter and 10 liters. The canisters 36, 38 each have caps 40, 42. Referring further to Figure 2, attached to the canister cap 42 of the canister 38 is the manifold assembly 100. The manifold assembly 100 includes a receptacle 102 and a cassette 200. The cassette 200 is removably seated within the receptacle 102. As will be described below, the cassette 200 has a number of fixtures 180, 181 formed thereon. The fixture 180 is adapted to receive the suction line 50, and the fixture 181 is adapted to receive the perfusion line 51. The distal end of each of the suction line 50 and the perfusion line 51 is attached to the suction application device 52. (In this specification, the "distal side" refers to the side towards the surgical site where suction is applied, and the "proximal side" refers to the side away from the surgical site.) In Figure 1A, the suction application device 52 is specifically designed only for applying suction and perfusion.

[0014] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Although schematically shown as the applied handpiece, this is merely illustrative and not limiting. It should be understood that this is not the case. In some cases, the suction applying device 52 may be another surgical tool applied to the surgical site to perform work other than applying suction and irrigation, for example, a colonoscope or a cautery tool.

[0015] The suction pump 58 and the peristaltic pump 70 are also part of the movable unit 30. From each cap 40, 42, ducts extend to the suction conduit. In FIG. 1A, these ducts are depicted as dashed lines 60. These ducts are for the following fluid path, that is, through these fluid paths, the suction pump vacuums the canisters 36, 38, and further, the suction tubes connected to these canisters, which is a fluid path. When the suction pump 58 operates, due to the suction generated as a result, substances are drawn into the applying device attached to the suction tube.

[0016] A continuous suction fluid communication path 184 is formed from the applying device 52 to the suction pump 58. The waste stream will be directed from the receptacle 102 into the associated canister 36. The liquid substances and small pieces of solid substances mixed in this stream will settle from the stream into the canister 38. Therefore, this waste will be stored in the canister 36 until the canister 36 is emptied. The gases and some small pieces of substances mixed in this stream will flow from the canister towards the suction pump 58.

[0017] An alternative manifold receptacle 1699 attached to the canister 36 is shown. is present. The manifold receptacle 1699 is shaped to receive other manifolds (not part of the present invention). (not shown). This particular manifold receptacle and the manifold inserted therein are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,615,037, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2, the cap 42 is formed to have a solid cap head 63 that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the base of the cap. A cavity 64 is defined within the cap head 63. The receptacle 102 is mounted within this cavity 64. The receptacle 102 is mounted within the cavity 64 such that the panel of the receptacle 102 contacts the inner panel of the cap head 63. The cassette 200 is removably held within the receptacle 102. The perfusion fixture 180 and the suction fixture 181 extend distally from the cassette 200.

[0019] The peristaltic pump 70 is connected to the perfusion line 51 such that, by rotation of the peristaltic pump 70, perfusion fluid is pumped from the perfusion fluid source 72 through the perfusion line 162, the cassette 200, and the perfusion line 51 to the delivery device 52 and supplied to the surgical site at the delivery device 52. The peristaltic pump 70 includes a rotary electric motor 71 connected by a shaft 72 to an eccentric roller 74. The peristaltic pump 70 is adapted to supply perfusion fluid to the delivery device 52, as will be described in more detail below. A continuous perfusion fluid communication path 182 is formed from the perfusion fluid source 72 to the delivery device 52.

[0020] ​​​​​The linear actuator 80 is connected to the piston 300 via a connecting rod 82. The linear actuator 80 can reciprocate the rod 82 toward and away from the piston 300. The illustrated piston 300 is located toward the distal end 245 of the sleeve, and the illustrated tissue trap 350 is located toward the proximal end 244 of the sleeve.

[0021] FIG. 1B shows a control system 190 for controlling the operation of the waste collection system 30. The control system 190 is mounted within the waste collection system 30. The control system 190 includes a controller 192. The controller 192 can be a general-purpose micro processor, a microcontroller, or a computer. The controller 192 communicates with the suction motor 58, the pump motor 71, the actuator 80, the light source 129, the radio frequency identification (RFID) reader 194, and the control panel 196, and is adapted to control the operations thereof. The control panel 196 includes buttons, switches, and a display that enable a user to select, control, and observe the operating parameters of the waste collection system 30.

[0022] FIG. 1C shows the details of one aspiration device 52, specifically, a colonoscope 52 for performing a colonoscopy. The colonoscope 52 has a handgrip 164 connected to an elongated flexible tube 165 having an end 166. The handgrip 164 is connected to an irrigation fluid connection 167, a suction connection 168, a light source 169, and an air pump 170. The flexible The tube 165 includes a suction passage 171, an air passage 172, a water passage 173, and a biopsy valve 17 4. The perfusion fluid connection portion 167 is connected to the perfusion line 51 (FIG. 1A), and the suction connection portion 168 is connected to the suction line 50 (FIG. 1A). The end 166 is placed at the surgical site, and suction, air, or perfusion fluid is adapted to be supplied to the surgical site through the end 166. Using the colonoscope 52, a polyp sample can be collected or retrieved from the gastrointestinal tract. An excision tool (not shown) is adapted to be inserted into the surgical site through the biopsy valve 174 and the suction passage 171. The excision tool can excise and remove the polyp. The excision tool is removed from the suction passage 171, and the polyp will be removed from the excision site by the suction applied through the suction passage 17 1.

[0023] [II. First Embodiment] [A. Receptacle] Referring to FIGS. 3 - 6, a manifold assembly 100 of the first embodiment of the present invention is shown. The manifold assembly 100 includes a receptacle 102, a cassette 200, a piston 300, and a tissue trap 350.

[0024] The receptacle 102 is shown as having a generally rectangular shape. Other shapes, such as round, oval, or square shapes, may be used. The receptacle 102 has six external panels, namely, an upper panel 1 05 and a lower panel 106 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented generally horizontally, and panels 10 7, 108 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented generally vertically, and a front panel 109 and a portion is defined by the inner or rear panel 110 and. The flange 112 extends perpendicularly outward in the circumferential direction from panels 1 05, 107, 108. The flange 112 has a rear surface 1 14. The receptacle 102 may be formed from any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic.

[0025] The front panel 109 is horizontally oriented and includes a narrow region 119 and a wide region 120, defining an opening 118 that extends across the width of the receptacle and penetrates the receptacle 102 from the front panel 109 towards the rear panel 110. Panel 1 17 extends perpendicularly away from the bottom panel 106 and abuts the bottom panel 116 to define the wide region 12 0 of the opening. The bottom panel 116 extends between panels 1 07, 117. The bottom panel 116 is substantially parallel to the panel 106. The wide region 12 0 is defined by panels 105, 107, 116, 117. The wide region 12 0 is integral with the narrow region 119.

[0026] The generally rectangular door opening 124 is defined in the upper panel 105 at a position adjacent to the edge of the receptacle and the side panel 107. The generally rectangular perfusion opening 126 (FIG. 6) is defined in the bottom panel 106 at a position adjacent to the edge of the receptacle and the side panel 108 . A light hole 128 (FIG. 6) is defined in the side panel 1 07 at a position where it abuts the flange 112. A light source, such as a light emitting diode 129, is mounted within the light hole 128 to illuminate the piston 300 and the tissue trap 350 ​The duct 129 is connected to a power source (not shown) mounted within the cap 42. Open ing or port 130 (Figure 5) is defined in the bottom panel 11 6, near the front panel 109.

[0027] The elongated door 136 is rotatably attached to the top panel 105 via one or more hinges 142. In Figures 4 and 5, only the upper edge of the door 136 is shown. The door 136 includes an upper edge 138 and a wide area 140 to which feet 141 are attached. The feet 141 extend perpendicularly from the bottom of the door 136 into the wide area 120 of the opening 118. The door 136 rotates about the hinge 142 between the open position shown in Figures 3 - 5 and the closed position shown in Figures 1 6 (where the door 136 covers the opening 118 including both the narrow area 119 and the wide area 120). In the closed position, the feet 141 are positioned to cover the suction opening 130, thereby sealing or closing the path to the canister 38. When the door 136 is in the open position, the feet 141 penetrate the door opening 124. The hinge 142 biases the door 136 to the normally closed position when the cassette 200 is removed from the passage 118 or not attached to the passage 118.

[0028] A pair of L - shaped elongated rails 134 (best shown in Figure 4), facing opposite and parallel to each other, extend away from the bottom panel 106 at a position below the perfusion opening 126. The rails 134 define a slot 132 therebetween. The slot 13 2 extends inward from the panel 108, below the perfusion opening 126, along the perfusion opening 126. extends thereto. The elongated grooves 135 that face each other and are parallel are defined along the length of each rail 134 along the length thereof.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 4, the perfusion coupler 150 provides a perfusion fluid connection between the perfusion line 162 (FIG. 1A) and the cassette 2 00. The perfusion coupler 150 has a generally rectangular body 152 with a distal end 153, a wide integral proximal handle 154, and a pair of opposed and parallel sloped elongated side surfaces 156 located on both sides of the body 152 thereof. The outlet fixture 158 formed of a compressible material extends upward from the body 152, and the inlet port 160 extends downward from the body 152 toward the proximal handle 154 thereof. The inlet port 160 has a serrated end (not shown) for holding the perfusion line 162. The fluid communication path extends through the body 152 between the outlet fixture 158 and the inlet port 160. The perfusion line 162 is connected between the inlet port 160 and the perfusion fluid source 72. The perfusion coupler 150 may be formed of any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic. The perfusion coupler 150 is adapted to be inserted into and removed from the slot 132. The user can insert the perfusion coupler 150 by grasping the handle 154 and guiding the distal end 153 toward the slot 132 such that the sloped side surfaces 156 engage the grooves 135. By continuously pushing the handle 154 manually toward the receptacle 102, the sloped side surfaces 156 are slid along the grooves 135, whereby along the grooves 135, whereby not shown) and has a serrated end for holding the perfusion line 162. The fluid communication path extends through the body 152 between the outlet fixture 158 and the inlet port 160. The perfusion line 162 is connected between the inlet port 160 and the perfusion fluid source 72. The perfusion coupler 150 may be formed of any suitable material, such as port 160. The perfusion coupler 150 is adapted to be inserted into and removed from the slot 132. The user can insert the perfusion coupler 150 by grasping the handle 154 and guiding the distal end 153 toward the slot 132 such that the sloped side surfaces 156 engage the grooves 135. By continuously pushing the handle 154 manually toward the receptacle 102, the sloped side surfaces 156 are slid along the grooves 135, whereby injection molded plastic.

[0030] The perfusion coupler 150 is adapted to be inserted into and removed from the slot 132. The user can insert the perfusion coupler 150 by grasping the handle 154 and guiding the distal end 153 toward the slot 132 such that the sloped side surfaces 156 engage the grooves 135. By continuously pushing the handle 154 manually toward the receptacle 102, the sloped side surfaces 156 are slid along the grooves 135, whereby the perfusion coupler 150 can be inserted. By continuously pushing the handle 154 manually toward the receptacle 102, the sloped side surfaces 156 are slid along the grooves 135, whereby the perfusion coupler 150 can be inserted. By continuously pushing the handle 154 manually toward the receptacle 102, the sloped side surfaces 156 are slid along the grooves 135, whereby the perfusion coupler 150 can be inserted. By continuously pushing the handle 154 manually toward the receptacle 102, the sloped side surfaces 156 are slid along the grooves 135, whereby the sloped side surfaces 156 are slid along the grooves 135, and Thus, when the handle 154 contacts the rail 134, the irrigation coupler 150 is fully extended. The irrigation coupler 150 is seated in the hole 132. The user grasps the handle 154 and inserts the irrigation coupler 150 into the hole 132. 1. Irrigation coupler 150 can be removed by pulling connector 150 away from slot 132. This can be done.

[0031] Identification device 376 (FIG. 5) is attached to the irrigation coupler. 76 shall include any suitable identification device, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or device. The identification device may be a magnetic strip, a bar code, a magnetic strip, or other storage device. , including information such as configuration information, deadline information, and control information for reuse or reprocessing. It is possible.

[0032] [B. Cassette] 7, 8, 9A-9G, and 10A-10G show cassette 200 in detail. Cassette 200 may be made of any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic. 7-8, the cassette 200 may be formed of a substantially rectangular shape. and has a housing 202. The housing 202 is made up of two parts: It has an upper housing 204 and an opposing lower housing 206. Although shown as using two pieces, it is contemplated that the housing 202 may be a single, integral piece. It is also anticipated that the upper housing 204 and the lower housing 205 may be formed as a single unit. The housing 202 is fitted with the upper and lower housings 206. The cavity 203 is Between the housing 204 and the lower housing 206, a The upper housing 204 includes a flat top panel 207, a front panel 208, and a curved rear panel 209. It includes panel 210 and side panels 212, 214, 215. Panels 208, 2 10, 212, 214, 215 extend at a right angle away from the upper panel 207.

[0033] A pair of internal support panels 218, 219 extend between the front panel 208 and the rear panel 210. The internal support panels 218, 219 are substantially parallel to each other and extend at a right angle away from the upper panel 207. The internal support panels 218, 219 define a perfusion tube passage 220. The opening 222 of the front panel 210 opens into the tube passage 220. The cover 224 extends away from the side panel 214 and is coplanar with the upper panel 207. The cover 224 is mechanically supported by several ribs 216 extending between the side panel 214 and the cover 224. The arm 226 extends away from the side panel 214 at a position adjacent to the rear panel 2 08 and is coplanar with the upper panel 2 07. The slot 227 is defined between the cover 224 and the arm 226. 08 and is coplanar with the upper panel 2 07. The slot 227 is defined between the cover 224 and the arm 226.

[0034] The suction fixture 180 is a 90° elbow fixture that provides a fluid communication path and is attached to the arm 2 26. The suction fixture 180 has a tapered end 228 to which the suction line 50 (Figure 1A) is detached and another end 229. The end 229 extends somewhat away from the arm 226. The tapered end 228 faces away from the front surface of the cassette 200, and the end 229 faces towards the lower housing 206. The upper housing 2 04 further includes a perfusion connector 260 (Figure 8). The perfusion connector 260 faces away from the front surface of the cassette 200, and the end 229 faces towards the lower housing 206. The upper housing 2 04 further includes a perfusion connector 260 (Figure 8). The perfusion connector 260 ​​​is disposed within the corner of the cassette 200 at a position adjacent to the panels 212, 215 See also FIGS. 9A-9G and FIGS. 10A-10G. The perfusion connector 260 has a generally L-shaped body 262 with a pair of spaced-apart flexible legs 264 extending from the body and positioned on the panel 207. The perfusion connector 260 has a tapered outlet end or port 266 and a chamfered concave inlet end or port 268. The outlet end or port 266 is positioned between portions of the panels 210, 216 The perfusion connector 260 forms a 90° bend or elbow defining a fluid communication path for the perfusion fluid between the inlet port 268 and the outlet port 266 The body 262 is attached to the panel 212 via a living hinge 270 A living hinge is a thin flexible hinge or flexure bearing formed integrally between two components that are desired to move relative to each other The legs 264 provide a spring force to the body 262 to bias the body away from the panel 207 for this purpose .

[0035] The upper housing 204 is formed or molded together with the perfusion connector 260 extending distally from the side 212 (FIG. 9E). At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located outside the upper housing 204. The body 260 is rotatable within the cavity 203 about the living hinge 270 such that the legs 264 are positioned on the upper panel 207 and the outlet port 266 is positioned between portions of the panels 210, 215 (FIG. 10E). At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located inside the upper housing 204 At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located outside the upper housing 204. The body 260 is rotatable within the cavity 203 about the living hinge 270 such that the legs 264 are positioned on the upper panel 207 and the outlet port 266 is positioned between portions of the panels 210, 215 (FIG. 10E). At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located inside the upper housing 204 At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located outside the upper housing 204. The body 260 is rotatable within the cavity 203 about the living hinge 270 such that the legs 264 are positioned on the upper panel 207 and the outlet port 266 is positioned between portions of the panels 210, 215 (FIG. 10E). At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located inside the upper housing 204 At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located outside the upper housing 204. The body 260 is rotatable within the cavity 203 about the living hinge 270 such that the legs 264 are positioned on the upper panel 207 and the outlet port 266 is positioned between portions of the panels 210, 215 (FIG. 10E). At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located inside the upper housing 204 At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located outside the upper housing 204. The body 260 is rotatable within the cavity 203 about the living hinge 270 such that the legs 264 are positioned on the upper panel 207 and the outlet port 266 is positioned between portions of the panels 210, 215 (FIG. 10E). At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located inside the upper housing 204 At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located outside the upper housing 204. The body 260 is rotatable within the cavity 203 about the living hinge 270 such that the legs 264 are positioned on the upper panel 207 and the outlet port 266 is positioned between portions of the panels 210, 215 (FIG. 10E). At this position, the perfusion connector 260 is located inside the upper housing 204

[0036] Referring again to FIGS. 7 and 8, the lower housing 206 includes a flat bottom panel 230, a front panel 232, a curved rear panel 234, and side panels 236. The panels 232, 234, 236 extend perpendicularly away from the bottom panel 239, each having a beveled edge 237. A U-shaped opening 235 that allows the infusion tube end 282 to penetrate is disposed in the front panel 232. A generally elongated hollow square-shaped cassette sleeve 240 extends outwardly from an end 238 of the bottom panel 230. The sleeve 240 has an outer surface 242, an inner surface 243, a proximal end 244, a distal end 245, and a hole

[0037] 246. The hole 246 completely penetrates the sleeve 240 between the proximal end 244 and the distal end 246. A suction opening 248 is defined on one side of the sleeve 240 near the proximal end 244. A cassette discharge port 250 is defined on the opposite side of the sleeve 240 near the center of the sleeve 240. The lower housing 206 further includes a lens 223 (FIG. 5 ) attached above the sleeve 240. The lens 223 is a magnifying lens capable of magnifying the contents of the tissue trap 350. The user can observe any tissue sample collected in the tissue trap 350 through the lens 223. The pump tube 280 includes an infusion tube 181, ends 281, 282, a curved roller contact area 284, and an inclined area 28 6. After the pump tube 280 is incorporated into the lower housing 204, the inclined area 284 will be disposed within the passage 220 of the cassette 200. The pump tube 2 80

[0038] The lower housing 206 further includes a lens 223 (FIG. 5 ) attached above the sleeve 240. The lens 223 is a magnifying lens capable of magnifying the contents of the tissue trap 350. The user can observe any tissue sample collected in the tissue trap 350 through the lens 223. The pump tube 280 includes an infusion tube 181, ends 281, 282, a curved roller contact area 284, and an inclined area 28 6. After the pump tube 280 is incorporated into the lower housing 204, the inclined area 284 will be disposed within the passage 220 of the cassette 200. The pump tube 2 80 includes an infusion tube 181, ends 281, 282, a curved roller contact area 284, and an inclined area 28 6. After the pump tube 280 is incorporated into the lower housing 204, the inclined area 284 will be disposed within the passage 220 of the cassette 200. The pump tube 2 80 80 may be formed from any suitable material, such as an elastomer or silicone rubber. The end 281 is press-fitted around the tapered outlet end or port 266 of the infusion connector 260. The curved roller contact area 284 is arranged to extend along the outer surface of the curved panel 210 adjacent to the outer surface. The inclined area 286 is arranged and held within the infusion tube passage 220 between the panels 218, 219. The pump tube 280 further extends from the inclined area 286 through the openings 222, 235 to the end 282. The pump tube 280 will provide a fluid communication path that allows the infusion fluid to flow from the outlet port 266 to the infusion fixture 181. The end 281 is press-fitted around the tapered outlet end or port 266 of the infusion connector 260. The curved roller contact area 284 is arranged to extend along the outer surface of the curved panel 210 adjacent to the outer surface. The inclined area 286 is arranged and held within the infusion tube passage 220 between the panels 218, 219. The pump tube 280 further extends from the inclined area 286 through the openings 222, 235 to the end 282. The pump tube 280 will provide a fluid communication path that allows the infusion fluid to flow from the outlet port 266 to the infusion fixture 181. The end 281 is press-fitted around the tapered outlet end or port 266 of the infusion connector 260. The curved roller contact area 284 is arranged to extend along the outer surface of the curved panel 210 adjacent to the outer surface.

[0039] The upper housing 204 and the lower housing 206 are fitted together to form the cassette 200. The housings 204, 206 will be held together by press-fitting, snap-fitting, or welding the two housing areas to each other. Other holding means, such as adhesives, may be used. When the housings 204, 206 are compressed together and fitted, the beveled edge 237 presses against the panels 232, 234, 236 and seats them inwardly of the panels 208, 210, 212. In the fitted position, the cover 224 extends over a portion of the sleeve 240 near the distal end 245. Also, in the fitted position, the arm 226 extends over a portion of the sleeve 240 near the proximal end 244, and the end 229 of the suction fixture 180 is adapted to fit or be received within the suction opening 248. The upper housing 204 and the lower housing 206 are fitted together to form the cassette 200. The housings 204, 206 will be held together by press-fitting, snap-fitting, or welding the two housing areas to each other. Other holding means, such as adhesives, may be used. When the housings 204, 206 are compressed together and fitted, the beveled edge 237 presses against the panels 232, 234, 236 and seats them inwardly of the panels 208, 210, 212. In the fitted position, the cover 224 extends over a portion of the sleeve 240 near the distal end 245. Also, in the fitted position, the arm 226 extends over a portion of the sleeve 240 near the proximal end 244, and the end 229 of the suction fixture 180 is adapted to fit or be received within the suction opening 248. In the fitted position, the cover 224 extends over a portion of the sleeve 240 near the distal end 245. Also, in the fitted position, the arm 226 extends over a portion of the sleeve 240 near the proximal end 244, and the end 229 of the suction fixture 180 is adapted to fit or be received within the suction opening 248. In the fitted position, the cover 224 extends over a portion of the sleeve 240 near the distal end 245.

[0040] Referring further to FIG. 5, the piston 300 is shown as having a substantially rectangular shape. Other shapes, such as round, oval, or square, may be used. The piston 300 has six outer surfaces, namely, an upper surface 302 and a bottom surface 303 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented substantially horizontally and parallel to each other, and surfaces 304, 305 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented substantially vertically and parallel to each other, and a front surface 306 and a rear surface 307 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented substantially vertically and parallel to each other , which are defined thereby. The chamber 301 is defined within the piston 300. The raised rim 308 extends peripherally and outwardly inclined from the front panel 306 and the surfaces 302, 303, 304, 305. Another raised rim 310 extends peripherally and outwardly inclined from the rear panel 307 and the surfaces 302, 303, 304, 305.

[0041] The piston 300 has a proximal end 318 and a distal end 319 facing the hole 146. A substantially rectangular recess 312 is defined near the center of the distal end 319. The bottom of the recess 312 is defined by a shelf 313. An opening 314 is disposed on the shelf 313 near the distal end 319. The opening 314 penetrates the piston 300 between the shelf 313 and the bottom surface 304. An opening 316 (FIG. 8) is disposed on the bottom surface 303 near the distal end 319. The opening 316 is coaxial with the opening 314. The piston 300 is configured to be received by the hole 246 of the sleeve 240. The piston 300 can slide along the inner surface 243 such that the raised rims 308, 310 contact the inner surface 243. The piston 300 can be made of any suitable material, such as injection-molded elastomer It may be formed from. The piston 300 is adapted to provide a seal between the raised rims 308, 310 and the inner surface 243. and.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 11A-11E and FIGS. 12A-12E, a tissue trap 350 is shown. The tissue trap 350 is generally rectangular in shape. Other shapes, such as round, oval, or square, may be used. The tissue trap 350 may be formed from any suitable material, such as a low durometer plastic or a thermoplastic elastomer. The tissue trap 350 is defined by five outer panels, namely, panels 352, 353 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented substantially vertically, front panel 354 and rear panel 355 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented substantially vertically, and bottom panel 356 that is disposed horizontally. A notch 357 is disposed in panel 355. A flange 358 extends circumferentially outwardly from front panel 354 and panels 352, 353, 354, 356. The tissue trap 350 defines a cavity 360.

[0043] A pair of opposed and spaced-apart central features 362, 364 extend distally from side or end 355. Central feature 362 is located near side or end 353, and central feature 364 is located near side or end 352. Central features 362, 364 are adapted to guide tissue trap 350 during insertion into aperture 246 (FIG. 7) of sleeve 240. An opening 366 is defined in bottom panel 356 adjacent to the interior of panel 355. Opening 366 is in fluid communication with cavity 360.

[0044] The L-shaped screen 368 is rotatably connected to the tissue trap 350 by a living hinge 374. The screen 368 has a rectangular bottom region 369 and a rectangular side region 370. The bottom region 369 is orthogonal to the side region 370. A number of holes 372 penetrating the bottom region 369 are defined. The screen 368 is rotatable about the hinge 374 between a closed position within the cavity 360 as shown in FIGS. 11A - 11E and an open position outside the cavity 360 as shown in FIGS. 12A - 12E.

[0045] (Best shown in FIGS. 3 and 6) An identification device 376 is attached to the side surface 352 of the tissue trap 35 0. The identification device 376 can be any suitable identification device, for example, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or device, a barcode, a magnetic strip, or other memory device. The identification device can contain information such as setting information, expiration information, and control information for reuse or reprocessing.

[0046] (Best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6) Another identification device 378 is attached to the cover 224 of the cassette 20 0. The identification device 378 can be any suitable identification device, for example, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, a barcode, a magnetic strip, or other memory device. The identification device can contain information such as setting information, expiration information, and control information for reuse or reprocessing.

[0047] FIGS. 13 and 14 show a sample container or vial 380. The sample container or vial 380 has a generally cylindrical shape with an outer panel 382 and a bottom panel 383. Two flat gripping regions 384 facing away from each other and spaced apart are provided on the outer panel 382 of the sample container 380. The compartment 388 is defined within the sample container 380. In one embodiment, the compartment 388 contains a preservation solution 389, for example, formalin or other suitable preservation solution. In other embodiments, the preservation solution is omitted. The sample container 380 is formed from a transparent material so that the contents of the

[0048] compartment 388 can be observed by the user. A tubular flange 386 extends circumferentially outwardly above the panel 382. A tubular threaded portion 387 is defined on the outer surface of the flange 386. The circular cap 390 has a tubular threaded portion 391. The cap 390 is adapted to be attached to the sample container 380 by rotating the cap 390 relative to the sample container 380 and mating the

[0049] threaded portions 387, 391 with each other. The cap 390 is removably held to the sample container 380 by a cap retainer 392. The cap retainer 392 has an elongated arm 395. The elongated arm 395 has a proximal end 396 removably attached to the flange 386 and a distal end 397 attached to an arcuate rib 393. The rib 393 is connected to the cap 390 by a tab 394. The tab 394 provides a weak connection between the rib 393 and the cap 390.

[0050] The user places the cap 390 over the sample container 380. The cap retainer 39 2 is aligned with the threaded portions 387, 391. The cap 390 is rotated relative to the When rotated relative thereto, the tab 394 breaks and the cap 390 separates from the cap retainer 392. Next, the user can pull the arm 395 and remove the cap retainer 392 from the sample container 380.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 14, the user places the tissue trap 350 containing the tissue sample 398 within the compartment 398, thereby immersing the tissue trap 350 and the tissue sample 398 in the preservation solution 389. The tissue sample 398 can be a wide variety of tissue samples. For example, the tissue sample 398 can be a biopsy sample from a part of the body or a polyp from the colon. Next, the cap 390 is screwed onto the sample container 380, thereby sealing the tissue sample 398 and the tissue trap 350 within the sample container 380. 50 within the compartment 398, thereby immersing the tissue trap 350 and the tissue sample 3 98 in the preservation solution 389. The tissue sample 398 can be a wide variety of tissue samples. For example, the tissue sample 398 can be a biopsy sample from a part of the body or a polyp from the colon. Next, the cap 390 is screwed onto the sample container 380, thereby sealing the tissue sample 398 and the tissue trap 350 within the sample container 380. will be sealed within the sample container 380.

[0052] [C. Operations of the First Embodiment] Referring to FIGS. 1-14, the movable unit 30 (FIG. 1) is prepared for use by the user inserting the cassette 200 into the complementary receptacle 102 of the manifold assembly 100 associated with the canister 38. This step is performed by orienting the rear panel 2 15 to open the door 136 and inserting the cassette 102 into the receptacle 102. When the door 136 opens, the foot 141 penetrates the opening 124. The cassette 200 slides within the passage 118 until the rear panel 215 contacts the rear panel 110. At this position, the cassette discharge port 250 (FIG. 8) seats against the suction conduit 59 and is in fluid communication with the suction conduit 59. The curved tube region 284 is engaged by the peristaltic pump roller inside until the rear panel 215 contacts the rear panel 110. At this position, the cassette discharge port 250 (FIG. 8) seats against the suction conduit 59 and is in fluid communication with the suction conduit 59. The curved tube region 284 is engaged by the peristaltic pump roller 15 to open the door 136 and inserting the cassette 102 into the receptacle 102. When the door 136 opens, the foot 141 penetrates the opening 124. The cassette 200 slides within the passage 118 until the rear panel 215 contacts the rear panel 110. At this position, the cassette discharge port 250 (FIG. 8) seats against the suction conduit 59 and is in fluid communication with the suction conduit 59. The curved tube region 284 is engaged by the peristaltic pump roller 141 penetrates the opening 124. The cassette 200 slides within the passage 118 until the rear panel 215 contacts the rear panel 110. At this position, the cassette discharge port 250 (FIG. 8) seats against the suction conduit 59 and is in fluid communication with the suction conduit 59. The curved tube region 284 is engaged by the peristaltic pump roller until the rear panel 215 contacts the rear panel 110. At this position, the cassette discharge port 250 (FIG. 8) seats against the suction conduit 59 and is in fluid communication with the suction conduit 59. The curved tube region 284 is engaged by the peristaltic pump roller 59. The curved tube region 284 is engaged by the peristaltic pump roller 59. The curved tube region 284 is engaged by the peristaltic pump roller It is pressed against 74, whereby the rotation of roller 74 pumps the perfusion fluid into pump tube 2 80.

[0053] The RFID reader 194 recognizes the RFID tag 376 of the inserted cassette 200 and sends a signal to the controller 192 enabling the operation of the movable unit 30 when the cassette 200 is seated within the receptacle 102. After the cassette 200 is inserted into the receptacle 102, the controller 192 activates the light source 129 to illuminate the piston 300 and the tissue trap 350.

[0054] The perfusion line 162 is connected between the perfusion fluid source 72 and the perfusion coupler 150. The perfusion coupler 150 is inserted into the slot 132. The user can insert the perfusion coupler 150 by grasping the handle 154 and guiding the distal end 153 towards the slot 132 such that the sloped side 156 engages the groove 135. By continuously pushing the handle 154 manually towards the septum 102, the sloped side 156 can be slid along the groove 135 until the perfusion coupler 150 is fully seated within the slot 132. In this position, the outlet fitting 158 will provide a connection to the pump tube 280 via the perfusion connector 260. Thus, the outlet fitting 158 will be in fluid communication with the pump tube 280.

[0055] The movable unit 30 attaches the suction line 50 to the fixture 180 and the perfusion line 51 to the fixture 181 to couple an applicator device 52, such as a colonoscope, to the unit and be ready for use. ​​​​​​​​

[0056] The mode of operation of the cassette 200 is determined by the positioning of the piston 300 within the sleeve 240. The piston 300 is initially inserted into the sleeve 2. 3 at the distal end 244 of the 40. This is the bypass position. In the bypass position, the piston 300 is in the following position: the recess 312 is in the mounting position. 180 so that hole 314 is aligned with the cassette ejection port. oriented to allow fluid to flow past the piston 300.

[0057] The movable unit 30 operates the suction pump 58 and the peristaltic pump 70. , is activated. Operation of the aspiration pump 58 draws the waste stream away from the surgical site into the aspiration fluid communication. The fluid is drawn into the applicator 52 along the passage 184 and then removed through the suction line 50. From the fitting 180, the waste stream passes through the piston. Specifically, the material is inserted through the recess 312 into the hole 314, and then through the hollow interior cavity 301. The waste then travels through the piston hole 316 and the cassette ejection port 250. From conduit 59, the waste stream is directed into canister 38. This mode of operation allows the suction communication path 184 to bypass the tissue trap 350. That's why it's called bypass mode.

[0058] The liquid and solid components of the waste stream entering the canister 36 or 38 are allowed to settle out of the stream. The fuel falls and is retained in the canisters 36, 38 and ultimately disposed of.

[0059] By the operation of the peristaltic pump 70, the perfusion fluid is from the perfusion source 72, through the perfusion fluid communication path 18 along 2, through the perfusion line 162, the perfusion connector 150, the pump tube 280, the perfusion attachment tool 181, the perfusion line 51, and is sent into the dispensing device 52 for dispensing to the surgical site as such.

[0060] The user can choose to collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using the cassette 200 The cassette 200 is adapted to be placed in the tissue collection mode by repositioning the piston 300 within the sleeve 240 as such.

[0061] The user manually inserts the tissue trap 350 into the sleeve 240. By this the piston 300 will move distally from the screen 350, that is, further into the sleeve 24 0. The central features 362, 364 are for guiding the tissue trap 350 into the flange 300 of the piston 300 and abutting against the panel 306 as such. This position is shown in FIG. 2. In this position, the piston 300 is arranged towards the proximal end 245 of the sleeve 240. When the tissue trap 350 is fully inserted into the sleeve 240

[0062] the flange 358 abuts against the cassette proximal end 244. This is the tissue collection position. In the tissue collection position, the tissue trap 350 is oriented such that the cavity 360 is located below the opening of the fixture 180 and the hole 366 is aligned with the cassette discharge port 250 so that flow through the piston tissue trap 350 is possible. In the tissue collection position, the piston 300 is not part of the communication path. position, the piston 300 is not part of the communication path. position, the piston 300 is not part of the communication path. position, the piston 300 is not part of the communication path.

[0063] When the system is in tissue collection mode, the waste stream is drawn into the delivery device 52 along the aspiration communication path 18 from the surgical site and then guided into the fixture 180 through the suction line 50 This waste stream contains the tissue sample 398 that has been mixed into the delivery device 52 as a result of the suction through the delivery device 52 From the fixture 180, the waste stream moves into the conduit 59 through the cavity 360, the screen 368, the hole 366, and the hole 250 From the conduit 59, the waste stream is guided into the canister 38. The tissue sample 398 is captured by the screen 368 in the tissue trap 350. This mode of operation is referred to as tissue collection mode because the aspiration communication path 184 passes through the tissue trap 350 Note that it is not necessary to block or reconnect the suction line 50 to collect the sample in tissue collection mode The plastic forming the tissue trap 350 is at least partially transparent to allow the user to observe the tissue sample 398 The tissue sample 398 is illuminated within the tissue trap 350 by the light source 129

[0064] The tissue trap 350 is removable from the sleeve 240 by the user actuating the linear actuator 80 Alternatively, the tissue trap 350 may be removable by the user manually pulling out the tissue trap 350 or by using a lever or a spring mechanism (not shown). The user presses a button on the control panel 196 to actuate the actuator 80

[0065] The tissue trap 350 is configured to be removed from the sleeve 240 when the user actuates the linear actuator 80 Alternatively, the tissue trap 350 may be removed by the user manually pulling out the tissue trap 350 or by using a lever or a spring mechanism (not shown). The user presses a button on the control panel 196 to actuate the actuator 80 or a spring mechanism (not shown). The user presses a button on the control panel 196 to actuate the actuator 80 or a spring mechanism (not shown). The user presses a button on the control panel 196 to actuate the actuator 80 will push in an input device like this. The actuator 80 drives to linearly push the shaft 82 against the piston 300, thereby moving the piston 300 from the proximal end 245 to the distal end 244 of the sleeve 240. By the movement of the piston 300, the tissue trap 350 moves out of the hole 246 of the sleeve 240, where the user will grasp the tissue trap 350. When the piston returns to the proximal position, the system is considered to have returned to the bypass mode. If at a later point during the surgery, the operator decides it is beneficial to collect another tissue sample, another trap 350 can be inserted into the hole 246 of the sleeve 240 to collect another tissue sample. Multiple tissue traps 350 can be used to collect multiple tissue samples without blocking or reconnecting the suction line 50 during the surgery. It should be understood that another feature of the present invention is that the system can switch between the bypass operation mode and the tissue collection operation mode without stopping the suction pump during this transition. This means that when performing tissue collection using the present invention, the total time required for the surgery will not be prolonged by the time required to repeatedly activate / block the suction pump 58. After removing the tissue trap 350 from the cassette 200, the user places the tissue trap 350 into the sample container 380. In the sample container 380, the tissue trap 350

[0066] If at a later point during the surgery, the operator decides it is beneficial to collect another tissue sample, another trap 350 can be inserted into the hole 246 of the sleeve 240 to collect another tissue sample. Multiple tissue traps 350 can be used to collect multiple tissue samples without blocking or reconnecting the suction line 50 during the surgery. If at a later point during the surgery, the operator decides it is beneficial to collect another tissue sample, another trap 350 can be inserted into the hole 246 of the sleeve 240 to collect another tissue sample. Multiple tissue traps 350 can be used to collect multiple tissue samples without blocking or reconnecting the suction line 50 during the surgery. If at a later point during the surgery, the operator decides it is beneficial to collect another tissue sample, another trap 350 can be inserted into the hole 246 of the sleeve 240 to collect another tissue sample. Multiple tissue traps 350 can be used to collect multiple tissue samples without blocking or reconnecting the suction line 50 during the surgery. If at a later point during the surgery, the operator decides it is beneficial to collect another tissue sample, another trap 350 can be inserted into the hole 246 of the sleeve 240 to collect another tissue sample. Multiple tissue traps 350 can be used to collect multiple tissue samples without blocking or reconnecting the suction line 50 during the surgery. If at a later point during the surgery, the operator decides it is beneficial to collect another tissue sample, another trap 350 can be inserted into the hole 246 of the sleeve 240 to collect another tissue sample. Multiple tissue traps 350 can be used to collect multiple tissue samples without blocking or reconnecting the suction line 50 during the surgery.

[0067] It should be understood that another feature of the present invention is that the system can switch between the bypass operation mode and the tissue collection operation mode without stopping the suction pump during this transition. This means that when performing tissue collection using the present invention, the total time required for the surgery will not be prolonged by the time required to repeatedly activate / block the suction pump 58. It should be understood that another feature of the present invention is that the system can switch between the bypass operation mode and the tissue collection operation mode without stopping the suction pump during this transition. This means that when performing tissue collection using the present invention, the total time required for the surgery will not be prolonged by the time required to repeatedly activate / block the suction pump 58. It should be understood that another feature of the present invention is that the system can switch between the bypass operation mode and the tissue collection operation mode without stopping the suction pump during this transition. This means that when performing tissue collection using the present invention, the total time required for the surgery will not be prolonged by the time required to repeatedly activate / block the suction pump 58. It should be understood that another feature of the present invention is that the system can switch between the bypass operation mode and the tissue collection operation mode without stopping the suction pump during this transition. This means that when performing tissue collection using the present invention, the total time required for the surgery will not be prolonged by the time required to repeatedly activate / block the suction pump 58. It should be understood that another feature of the present invention is that the system can switch between the bypass operation mode and the tissue collection operation mode without stopping the suction pump during this transition. This means that when performing tissue collection using the present invention, the total time required for the surgery will not be prolonged by the time required to repeatedly activate / block the suction pump 58.

[0068] After removing the tissue trap 350 from the cassette 200, the user places the tissue trap 350 into the sample container 380. In the sample container 380, the tissue trap 350 After removing the tissue trap 350 from the cassette 200, the user places the tissue trap 350 into the sample container 380. In the sample container 380, the tissue trap 350 As shown in FIG. 14, it is immersed in the storage solution 389, whereby the tissue sample 398 will be covered by the storage solution 38. The user places the cap 390 covering the sample container 380. The cap retainer 392 is arranged in a straight line with the screw portions 391, 387. When the cap 390 is rotated with respect to the sample container 389, the tab 3 94 breaks and the cap 390 separates from the cap retainer 392. Then, the user can pull the arm 395 and remove the cap retainer 392 from the sample container 380. The sample container 380 will be sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis. Once the medical / surgical operation is completed and the use of the movable unit 30 is no longer necessary,

[0069] the suction line 50 and the perfusion line 51 should be detached from the fixtures 180, 181 respectively, and the perfusion coupler 150 should be detached from the receptacle 102. The cassette 200 is removed from the receptacle 102. When the cassette 200 is removed from the receptacle 102, the door 136 closes the passage 118. When the door 136 is in the closed position, the foot 141 covers the conduit 59, thereby sealing the inlet to the conduit 59. By closing the passage 118, leakage of the waste material remaining in the receptacle 102 can be substantially eliminated. The cassette 200 will be discarded as medical waste. After use, the movable unit 30 is adapted to be connected to a (not shown and not part of the present invention) dump truck. The waste material in the canister 36 or 38 is adapted to flow through the dump truck to a treatment facility.

[0070] After use, the movable unit 30 is adapted to be connected to a (not shown and not part of the present invention) dump truck. The waste material in the canister 36 or 38 is adapted to flow through the dump truck to a treatment facility. ​​

[0071] The outlet fitting 158 forms a seal with respect to the inlet port 268 in cooperation with the main body 262. When these components are fitted to each other, the leg 264 applies a spring force to the main body 262, and thereby they are dimensioned to bias the inlet port 268 toward the outlet fitting 158. Compression of these two components against each other results in a substantially liquid-tight barrier between these components. Accordingly, there is no need to provide an O-ring or other sealing element. This simplifies the manufacture of the cassette 200.

[0072] Similarly, in aspects of the present invention, it should also be understood that the plastics forming the tissue trap 350 and the sample container 380 are at least partially transparent. This will provide medical personnel with a quick means of verifying that a tissue sample has been collected. Furthermore, the cassette 200 is formed from at least partially transparent material. This will provide medical personnel with a quick means of verifying that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain collected waste.

[0073] [III. Second Embodiment] [A. Receptacle] Referring to FIGS. 15-17, details of a second manifold assembly 400 used as part of the waste and tissue collection system of the present invention are shown. The manifold assembly 400 includes a receptacle 410, a cassette 420, and a tissue trap 598. The tissue trap 598 includes a sample container 650, and a tissue filter 600 is seated within the sample container 650. The receptacle 402 is described in the first embodiment. ​​​is similar to the receptacle 102 described above. The receptacle 410 in the second embodiment has dimensions including a height, length, and width that are different from those of the receptacle 102. Also, the receptacle 410 includes a rear panel 402 after being curved, and defines a recess 404 on the distal side of the rear panel 402. The door 136 of FIG. 15 does not have feet 141 as shown in the receptacle 102 of FIG. 3.

[0074] Referring further to FIGS. 1A and 15B, the manifold door assembly 400 is attached to the canister cap 42 of the canister 38. The manifold door assembly 400 includes a receptacle 410 and a cassette 420. The cassette 420 is removably seated within the receptacle 410. As will be described below, a number of fixtures 490, 181 are formed in the cassette 420. The fixture 490 is adapted to receive the suction line 50, and the fixture 181 is adapted to receive the perfusion line 51. The distal end of each of the suction line 50 and the perfusion line 51 is attached to a suction application device (colonoscope) 52. (Here, the "distal side" refers to the side towards the surgical site where suction is applied, and the "proximal side" refers to the side away from the surgical site.) The cassette 420 has a number of attachments 490, 181 formed thereon. The attachment 490 is adapted to receive the suction line 50, and the attachment 181 is adapted to receive the perfusion line 51. The distal end of each of the suction line 50 and the perfusion line 51 is attached to a suction application device (colonoscope) 52. (Here, the "distal side" refers to the side towards the surgical site where suction is applied, and the "proximal side" refers to the side away from the surgical site.) In FIG. 1A, the suction application device 52 is schematically shown as a handpiece that is specifically designed only for applying suction and perfusion, but this is merely illustrative and not limiting. It should be understood that in some cases, the suction application device 52 may be incorporated into other surgical tools applied to the surgical site for purposes other than applying suction and perfusion, such as a colon biopsy tool or a cautery tool.

[0075] Inside the cap 42, a conduit 59 is provided. The conduit 59 functions as a fluid communication path from 0 to the canister 36 or 38 associated with the receptacle and serves as a fluid communication path from 0 to the canister 36 or 38 associated with the receptacle The suction fluid passage 454 in the cassette 420 exits from the rear part of the cassette 420 and the receptacle and leads to the horizontally oriented conduit 59 located behind the cavity 64 and leads to the horizontally oriented conduit 59 located behind the cavity 64 and is connected to it.

[0076] The suction pump 58 and the peristaltic pump 70 are also part of the movable unit 30. (Shown by dashed lines in Figure 1A ) The conduits 59, 60 connect the canisters 36, 38 to the inlet port of the suction pump 58 respectively. When the suction pump 58 operates, the resulting suction draws substances into the application device 52, then into the associated suction line 50, the cassette, and the receptacle and then into the associated suction line 50, the cassette, and the receptacle and then into the associated suction line 50, the cassette, and the receptacle respectively.

[0077] A continuous suction fluid communication path 184 is formed from the application device 52 to the suction pump 58. The waste stream will be directed from the receptacle 410 to the associated canister 36. The liquid substances and small pieces of solid substances mixed into this stream will settle from this stream into the canister 38. Therefore, this waste will be stored in the canister 36 until the canister 36 is emptied. The gas and small pieces of substances mixed into this stream will flow from the canister towards the suction pump 58 and the liquid substances and small pieces of solid substances mixed into this stream will settle from this stream into the canister 38. Therefore, this waste will be stored in the canister 36 until the canister 36 is emptied. The gas and small pieces of substances mixed into this stream will flow from the canister towards the suction pump 58 and the liquid substances and small pieces of solid substances mixed into this stream will settle from this stream into the canister 38. Therefore, this waste will be stored in the canister 36 until the canister 36 is emptied. The gas and small pieces of substances mixed into this stream will flow from the canister towards the suction pump 58 and the liquid substances and small pieces of solid substances mixed into this stream will settle from this stream into the canister 38. Therefore, this waste will be stored in the canister 36 until the canister 36 is emptied. The gas and small pieces of substances mixed into this stream will flow from the canister towards the suction pump 58 and the liquid substances and small pieces of solid substances mixed into this stream will settle from this stream into the canister 38. Therefore, this waste will be stored in the canister 36 until the canister 36 is emptied. The gas and small pieces of substances mixed into this stream will flow from the canister towards the suction pump 58 and the liquid substances and small pieces of solid substances mixed into this stream will settle from this stream into the canister 38. Therefore, this waste will be stored in the canister 36 until the canister 36 is emptied. The gas and small pieces of substances mixed into this stream will flow from the canister towards the suction pump 58

[0078] As can be seen from Figure 2, the cap 42 is formed to have a solid cap head 63 that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the base of the cap The cavity 64 is in the cap head It is defined within 63. The receptacle 410 is mounted within the cavity 64. The receptacle 410 is fixed to the cavity 64 such that the panel of the receptacle 410 contacts the inner panel of the cap head 63. The cassette 420 is removably held within the receptacle 410. The perfusion fixture 180 and the suction fixture 490 extend distally from the cassette 420.

[0079] The peristaltic pump 70 is connected to the perfusion line 51 as follows, i.e., by the rotation of the peristaltic pump 70, the perfusion fluid is sent from the perfusion fluid source 72 through the perfusion line 162, the cassette 200, and the perfusion line 51 to the application device 52 and supplied to the surgical site at the application device 52. The peristaltic pump 70 includes a rotary electric motor 71 connected to an eccentric roller 74. The peristaltic pump 70 is capable of supplying perfusion fluid to the application device 52 as will be described in more detail below. A continuous perfusion fluid communication path 182 is formed from the perfusion fluid source 72 to the application device 52.

[0080] [B. Cassette] Referring further to FIGS. 18A - 18F and FIG. 19, the cassette 420 has a generally square shape and includes a housing 422. The housing 422 has two parts, namely, an upper housing 424 and an opposing lower housing 426. The housing 422 is shown as using two parts, but it is contemplated that it may also be formed as a single integral piece. The upper housing 424 and the lower housing 42 6 are fitted together to form the housing 422. The cavity 423 is in the upper housing 4 24 and the lower housing 426 and is formed by the fitting of the two parts. The cavity 423 is in the upper housing 4 It is defined within the housing 422 between the upper 24 and the lower housing 426. Upper The housing 424 includes a flat upper panel 427, a front panel 428, a curved rear panel 43 0, and side panels 432, 434. The panels 428, 430, 432, 43 4 extend perpendicularly away from the upper panel 427. The nose portion 435 extends outwardly from the center of the front panel 428. The U-shaped opening 436 is disposed in the front panel 428 near the panel 432 and. The U-shaped opening 437 is disposed in the front panel 428 near the panel 434 and. The U-shaped opening 438 is disposed in the nose portion 435 and. The U-shaped opening 439 is disposed in the rear panel 430. The cassette 420 may be formed of any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic.

[0081] The lower housing 426 includes a flat bottom panel 442, a front panel 444, a curved rear panel 446, a rear panel 450, and side panels 447, 448. The panels 444, 446, 447, 448 extend perpendicularly away from the bottom panel 442, and each has a chamfered edge 449 except for the rear panel 446.

[0082] A pair of internal support panels 452, 453 extend between the front panel 444 and the rear panel 450 at positions adjacent to and spaced from the panel 448. The internal support panels 452, 4 53 are substantially parallel to each other and extend perpendicularly away from the bottom panel 442. The internal support panels 452, 453 define a passage 454. The support panels 452, 453 each have ends 456, 457. These ends 456, 457 are the panels ​​It bends at 90° at a position adjacent to 444 and somewhat spaced apart from the panel 444, extends parallel to the panel 444, and terminates at an end 459 close to the center of the panel 444. The hole 4 58 is arranged in the rear panel 450. This hole 458 is in fluid communication with the passage 454 and. The hole 478 penetrates the bottom panel 442 at the end 459. The hole 478 is in fluid communication with the passage 454. The secondary suction fixture 490 penetrates the front panel 444 outwardly and. The secondary suction fixture 490 is in fluid communication with the passage 454. The secondary suction fixture 49 0 is connected to an optional second suction line (not shown) and is sealed by a cap 491 (FIG. 15) when not in use.

[0083] The other pair of internal support panels 460, 461 extend in a wavy shape between a position adjacent to the curved rear panel 446 and the panel 447 and a position spaced apart from the panel 447. The internal support pa nels 460, 461 are spaced apart from each other substantially evenly and extend at right angles away from the bottom panel 442. The internal support panels 460, 461 define a first perfusion tube passage 462.

[0084] A further pair of internal support panels 464, 465 extend over a short distance between a position adjacent to the curved rear panel 446 and the panel 44 7. The internal support panels 464, 4 65 are substantially parallel to each other and extend at right angles away from the bottom panel 442. The internal support panels 464, 465 define a second perfusion tube passage 466.

[0085] The identification device 376 (FIG. 16) is attached to the upper panel 427 of the upper housing 424 ​​​​It is provided. The identification device 376 can be any suitable identification device, such as a wireless identification (RFID) device, barcode, magnetic strip, or other memory device. The identification device can include information containing setting information, expiration information, and control information for reuse or reprocessing.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 19, a substantially rectangular opening 468 is disposed in the front panel 444. The perfusion connector 470 is disposed in the collar of the cassette 420 (adjacent to the panel 447 and the opening 468). The perfusion connector 470 has a panel 472 extending perpendicularly upward from the bottom panel 442. The tapered nozzle 474 extends distally from the panel 472, and the tapered nozzle 475 extends proximally from the panel 472 toward the opening 468. The perfusion fixture 512 passes through the opening 468 and is connected to the nozzle 475.

[0087] The circular boss 480 extends outward from the front panel 444 and downward from the bottom panel 442. The boss 480 has a substantially horizontal upper panel 482 and a substantially vertical curved side surface 484. The side panel 484 is orthogonal to the upper panel 482. The side panel 484 and the upper panel 482 define a tubular cavity 488 (FIG. 17) therein. The fixture 486 extends downward from the upper panel 482 and outward from the side panel 484. The tissue deposition port 489 passes through the upper panel 482.

[0088] Referring again to FIGS. 18A-18F, the wavy pump tube 500 has ends 502, 5 04, regions 505, 506, and a curved pump region 508. The pump tube ​​​The tube 500 is disposed between the upper housing 424 and the lower housing 426. 420. The pump tube 500 may be made of any suitable material, e.g. The end 504 may be made of plastic or silicone rubber. The area 505 is press-fitted around the nozzle 474. 62. Area 506 is located within passageway 46 between panels 464, 465. 6. The curved pump section 508 is disposed within the curved rear panel 506. 446. The rotating peristaltic pump prosthesis is disposed adjacent to and extends along the outer surface of 446. The roller 74 (FIG. 2) is curved between the pump roller 74 and the curved rear panel 446. The end 5 is configured to movably press and squeeze the pump section 508. 02 is press fit around the 90° elbow fitting 514. The elbow fitting 514 is The elbow fitting 514 is located adjacent to and inward of the panel 447. The pump tube 500 is turned around and passes through a hole 510 in the panel 426 (FIG. 17). , providing a fluid communication path for irrigation fluid to flow from the irrigation coupler 150 to the irrigation fitting 512. is doing.

[0089] An elongated L-shaped cover 516 is disposed on the panels 452, 453, 456, and 457. The cover 516 includes a top panel 517 and a side panel 518. The side panel 518 is a panel that is connected to the panels 452, 453, 456, and 457. The cover 516 has a proximal end located near the rear panel 450. 519 and a distal end 520 located near the front panel 444. is disposed at the distal end 520 below the upper panel 517. The duct 522 is disposed through the hole 458 and extends into the passage 454. The duct 522 is in fluid communication with the passage 454.

[0090] The upper housing 424 and the lower housing 426 are fitted to each other to form the housing 42 0 of the cassette 420. The housings 424, 426 will be held to each other by press-fitting or snap-fitting two housing regions to each other. Alternatively, the housings 424, 426 may be held by an adhesive or welding to be. When the housings 424, 426 are fitted to each other by pressing, the chamfered edges 450 push the panels 444, 447, 448 and are seated inside the panels 428, 4 32, 434, respectively.

[0091] The cassette 420 further includes a valve assembly 530. The valve assembly 530 includes a valve member 532. The valve member 532 holds a ring 560 and a knurled knob 580 Referring to FIGS. 20A-20D, the valve member 532 has a generally cylindrical shape having an upper surface 534, a bottom surface 5 35, and a side surface 536. A rim 537 extends circumferentially outward from the upper surface 534 so as to extend somewhat on the side surface 536 A pair of steps 538 spaced apart from each other and parallel are defined on the bottom surface 535. The holes 540, 542 penetrate the valve member 532 between the upper surface 534 and the bottom surface 535 A curved slot 54 4 is defined in the upper surface 534. This slot 544 has the same spread as the hole 542 and is present.

[0092] The bypass passage 550 is defined in the upper surface 534 so as to extend substantially across the width of the upper surface 53 4. The bypass passage 550 is defined by a central groove 552 and partial holes 554, 556 The partial holes 554, 556 extend partially into the valve member orthogonally to the upper surface 534 The central groove 552 has the same spread as the partial holes 554, 556 .

[0093] Referring again to FIG. 19, the tubular ring 560 has an upper outer surface 562, a tapered lower outer surface 564, a rim 565, an inner surface 566, a bottom side 567, and a tubular section 569 . The hole 570 is defined within the ring 580. The tubular section 568 extends partially into the hole 570 .

[0094] The knurled knob 580 includes a bottom panel 582 and an annular side panel 584. The side panel 584 extends perpendicularly from the bottom panel 582. A series of knurled portions or ribs 585 extend circumferentially around the outer surface of the side panel 584. The user can grasp the knurled portion or rib 585 by hand. The opening 586 is defined in the bottom panel 582 . The recess 587 is defined in the front surface of the side panel 584. A notch 589 is defined in the front surface of the side panel 584 above the recess 587 . A series of protrusions 588 extend perpendicularly upward from the bottom panel 582 and are disposed around the opening 586. The protrusions 5 88 are flexible and are inclined somewhat inwardly toward the opening 586. The lip 590 is disposed at the distal end of each protrusion 588 and extends inwardly from the protrusion 588. (Shown in FIG. 17) A pair of spaced-apart L-shaped rails 592 facing each other extend below the bottom surface of the bottom panel 582 . Referring to FIG. 17, a pair of spaced-apart L-shaped rails 592 facing each other extend below the bottom surface of the bottom panel 582 .

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 15, 17, 19 and 20A, the valve assembly 530 is attached to the boss 4 80. The valve member 532 is seated within the cavity 488 such that its upper surface 534 is adjacent to the bottom of the panel 482 and the panel 442. This seating causes the rim 53 7 to contact the inside of the panel 484. Also, the annular step 568 of the ring 560 surrounds and contacts the annular step 538 of the valve member 532. The inner surface 566 of the ring 560 contacts the outside of the panel 484. On the other hand, the bottom panel 582 supports the bottom 567 of the ring 560. The bottom surface 535 passes through the opening 586. The protrusion 588 grips the ring 560 by means of a lip 590 that extends over the rim 565. Specifically, when the knob 580 is pushed against the ring 560, the protrusion 588 flexes outwardly, contacts and slides along the surfaces 562, 564, and then, when the lip 590 has moved beyond the rim 565, the protrusion 588 flexes inwardly and grips the ring 560. The protrusion 58 8 squeezes the ring 560 against the boss 480, thereby enabling the valve assembly 530 to be held in the housing 422. The valve member 532 can be rotated by the user grasping the knob 580, thereby rotating the entire valve assembly 530 relative to the boss 480.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 21A - 21F, a tissue filter 600 is shown. The tissue filter 600 is generally cylindrical. Other shapes, such as round, oval, or square, may be used. The tissue filter 600 can be made of any suitable material, such as low dur ... ... ... ... ...

[0097] ... ... ... The material may be made of a hardness plastic or a thermoplastic elastomer. The filter 600 is formed from a transparent material so that the contents can be observed by the user. The tissue filter 600 is defined by an upper panel 602. The side panel 604 extends perpendicularly away from the bottom of the top panel 602. The top panel 602 has a circumferential diameter that is smaller than that of the top panel 602. A lip 611, best seen in FIG. Extending circumferentially outward from the bottom of the hole 604. Arc-shaped vertically oriented side panels 608, 609 depend downwardly from the annular side panel 604. A vertically oriented panel 610 depends downwardly from the annular side panel 604 .

[0098] The panels 608, 609, and 610 define a reservoir 612 (FIG. 22D). In an embodiment, reservoir 612 contains a preservative solution 389, such as formalin or other suitable An appropriate preservation solution may be included (FIG. 22D). In other embodiments, the preservation solution is omitted. The storage solution 389 is sealed in the reservoir by a foil or plastic seal 614. It is sealed inside 612.

[0099] The vertically oriented, spaced apart panels 610 in a U-shape define a rectangular cavity 616. A rectangular screen 618 is mounted within the cavity 616 and is positioned over the panel 60. The screen 618 is secured to the distal end 62 within the cavity 616. The opening 622 is disposed in the upper panel 602 and is spaced some distance from the cavity 6 It is consecutive with 16.

[0100] The circumferential flange 606 has a pair of parallel edges 623, 624 located on opposite sides of the upper panel 602 facing each other, and a pair of curved edges 626, 627 located on opposite sides of the upper panel 602 facing each other. The tab 630 extends upward from the flange 606 at a position adjacent to the edge 627. The tab 630 is an alignment feature that prevents the tissue filter 600 from being inserted reversely into the valve assembly 530. When the tissue filter 600 is inserted into the valve assembly 530, the tab 630 fits into the notch 589. The duct 632 has a proximal end 634 and a distal end 636. The duct 632 is oriented substantially parallel to the panel 609 and is partially surrounded by the panel 609. The proximal end 634 penetrates the side panel 604 and terminates at the upper panel 602. The distal end 636 extends somewhat beyond the end 620 below the end 620. The hole 638 penetrates the duct 632. Figures 22A - 22D show a sample container or vial 650. The sample container or vial 650 has a generally cylindrical shape with an outer panel 652 and a bottom panel 653. A pair of flat gripping regions 654 facing away from each other and spaced apart are disposed on the outer panel 652 on opposite sides of the sample container 650. The compartment 658 is defined within the sample container 650. The sample container 650 is formed from a transparent material such that the contents of the compartment 658 can be observed by the user through a single flat wall. The wall has a flat shape. The tab 630 extends upward from the flange 606 at a position adjacent to the edge 627. The tab 630 is an alignment feature that prevents the tissue filter 600 from being inserted reversely into the valve assembly 530. When the tissue filter 600 is inserted into the valve assembly 530, the tab 630 fits into the notch 589. The duct 632 has a proximal end 634 and a distal end 636. The duct 632 is oriented substantially parallel to the panel 609 and is partially surrounded by the panel 609. The proximal end 634 penetrates the side panel 604 and terminates at the upper panel 602. The distal end 636 extends somewhat beyond the end 620 below the end 620. The hole 638 penetrates the duct 632. Figures 22A - 22D show a sample container or vial 650. The sample container or vial 650 has a generally cylindrical shape with an outer panel 652 and a bottom panel 653. A pair of flat gripping regions 654 facing away from each other and spaced apart are disposed on the outer panel 652 on opposite sides of the sample container 650. The compartment 658 is defined within the sample container 650. The sample container 650 is formed from a transparent material such that the contents of the compartment 658 can be observed by the user through a single flat wall. The wall has a flat shape.

[0101] The duct 632 has a proximal end 634 and a distal end 636. The duct 632 is oriented substantially parallel to the panel 609 and is partially surrounded by the panel 609. The proximal end 634 penetrates the side panel 604 and terminates at the upper panel 602. The distal end 636 extends somewhat beyond the end 620 below the end 620. The hole 638 penetrates the duct 632. The duct 632 has a proximal end 634 and a distal end 636. The duct 632 is oriented substantially parallel to the panel 609 and is partially surrounded by the panel 609. The proximal end 634 penetrates the side panel 604 and terminates at the upper panel 602. The distal end 636 extends somewhat beyond the end 620 below the end 620. The hole 638 penetrates the duct 632. The duct 632 has a proximal end 634 and a distal end 636. The duct 632 is oriented substantially parallel to the panel 609 and is partially surrounded by the panel 609. The proximal end 634 penetrates the side panel 604 and terminates at the upper panel 602. The distal end 636 extends somewhat beyond the end 620 below the end 620. The hole 638 penetrates the duct 632. The duct 632 has a proximal end 634 and a distal end 636. The duct 632 is oriented substantially parallel to the panel 609 and is partially surrounded by the panel 609. The proximal end 634 penetrates the side panel 604 and terminates at the upper panel 602. The distal end 636 extends somewhat beyond the end 620 below the end 620. The hole 638 penetrates the duct 632. The duct 632 has a proximal end 634 and a distal end 636. The duct 632 is oriented substantially parallel to the panel 609 and is partially surrounded by the panel 609. The proximal end 634 penetrates the side panel 604 and terminates at the upper panel 602. The distal end 636 extends somewhat beyond the end 620 below the end 620. The hole 638 penetrates the duct 632.

[0102] Figures 22A - 22D show a sample container or vial 650. The sample container or vial 650 has a generally cylindrical shape with an outer panel 652 and a bottom panel 653. A pair of flat gripping regions 654 facing away from each other and spaced apart are disposed on the outer panel 652 on opposite sides of the sample container 650. The compartment 658 is defined within the sample container 650. The sample container 650 is formed from a transparent material such that the contents of the compartment 658 can be observed by the user through a single flat wall. The wall has a flat shape. Figures 22A - 22D show a sample container or vial 650. The sample container or vial 650 has a generally cylindrical shape with an outer panel 652 and a bottom panel 653. A pair of flat gripping regions 654 facing away from each other and spaced apart are disposed on the outer panel 652 on opposite sides of the sample container 650. The compartment 658 is defined within the sample container 650. The sample container 650 is formed from a transparent material such that the contents of the compartment 658 can be observed by the user through a single flat wall. The wall has a flat shape. A pair of flat gripping regions 654 facing away from each other and spaced apart are disposed on the outer panel 652 on opposite sides of the sample container 650. The compartment 658 is defined within the sample container 650. The sample container 650 is formed from a transparent material such that the contents of the compartment 658 can be observed by the user through a single flat wall. The wall has a flat shape. The compartment 658 is defined within the sample container 650. The sample container 650 is formed from a transparent material such that the contents of the compartment 658 can be observed by the user through a single flat wall. The wall has a flat shape. The compartment 658 is defined within the sample container 650. The sample container 650 is formed from a transparent material such that the contents of the compartment 658 can be observed by the user through a single flat wall. The wall has a flat shape. This allows for substantially no visual distortion of the compartment contents.

[0103] An annular flange 666 extends upwardly and circumferentially outwardly from the panel 652. Threads 668 are defined on the outer surface of flange 666. A circular cap 680 is attached to the side panel. The cap 680 has an annular threaded portion 682 located on the inner surface of the inner lining 683. The cap 680 is rotated relative to the sample container 650 until the threads 668, 682 engage with each other. 4. The sample container 650 can be attached thereto by this.

[0104] The cap 680 is releasably retained to the sample container 650 by a cap retainer 683. The cap retainer 683 has an elongated arm 685. 5 has a proximal end 686 removably attached to flange 666 and an arcuate rib 693 The rib 693 is secured to the cap by a tab 694. The tab 694 is connected to the cap 680. The tab 694 provides a weak connection between the rib 693 and the cap 680. This provides a good connection.

[0105] The identification device 376 is attached to the cap 680. The identification device 376 , any suitable identification device, e.g., radio frequency identification (RFID) device, bar code , a magnetic strip, or other storage device. The identification device may store configuration information, expiration dates, such as patient or specimen tracking information, and control information for reuse or reprocessing. It can contain information.

[0106] The tissue sample 398 can be a variety of tissue specimens. For example, The loop 398 may be a biopsy sample from a part of the body or a polyp from the colon. The tissue filter 600 is configured to slide within the compartment 658 until the lip 611 engages the side panel 652. This engagement creates a resistance that allows further insertion into the compartment 658.

[0107] The tissue trap 598 is removably connected to the valve assembly 530. The trap 598 inserts the tissue filter 600 and the sample container 650 horizontally into the recess 587 and slides the edges 623, 624 within the L-shaped rails 592. The tissue trap 598 will hang down from the valve assembly 530. The tissue trap 598 horizontally pulls the tissue filter 600 and the sample container 650 away from the valve assembly 530 and pulls the edges 623, 624 out of the L-shaped rails 592 to remove it from the valve assembly 530. The tissue trap 598 is inserted into and removed from the cassette 420 as a single unit.

[0108] The user places the cap 680 on top of the tissue filter 600. The cap retainer 683 is aligned with the threaded portions 668, 682. Rotating the cap 680 relative to the sample container 650 causes the inner surface 696 of the cap 680 to contact the upper panel 602. Rotating the cap 680 causes the tissue filter 600 to move downward into the compartment 658. The side panel 604 and the lip 611 flex inward and slide along the sample container panel 652 until the distal end 636 contacts the bottom panel 653. ​​​​​​​​​​When moving downward within the compartment 658, the pointed tip 698 attached to the bottom panel 653 pierces the foil or plastic seal 614, releases the preservation solution 389, and, as shown in FIG. 17, will cover the tissue sample 398.

[0109] When the cap 680 is rotated relative to the sample container 650, the tab 694 breaks, and the cap 680 separates from the cap retainer 683. Next, the user can remove the cap retainer 683 from the sample container 650 by pulling on the arm 685.

[0110] [C. Operation] Referring to FIGS. 1A - 1C and FIGS. 15 - 19, the movable unit 30 (FIG. 1A) is prepared for use by inserting the cassette 420 into the complementary receptacle 410 of the manifold assembly 400 associated with the cannula 36 or 38 (into which waste drawn from the surgical site will be collected). This step is performed by orienting the rear panel 431 to open the door 136 and inserting the cassette 420 into the receptacle 410. The cassette 420 slides within the passage 118 until the rear panel 431 contacts the rear panel 110. In this position, the duct 522 seats on the suction conduit 59 and is in fluid communication with the suction conduit 59 (FIG. 15B). The curved tube section 508 is pressed against the peristaltic pump roller 74, whereby the rotation of the roller 74 feeds the perfusion fluid into the pump tube 500. The RFID reader 194 recognizes the identification device 376, e.g., an RFID tag, and determines that the cassette 420 is seated within the receptacle 410. ​​​​​​​​​​​A signal enabling the operation of the movable unit 30 is transmitted to the controller 192.

[0111] The perfusion line 162 is connected between the perfusion fluid source 72 and the perfusion connector 150. Perfusion The coupler 150 is inserted into the slot 132. The user grasps the handle 154 and hooks The sloped side 156 is engaged with the groove 135, and the distal end 153 is guided toward the slot 132, thereby inserting the perfusion coupler 150. By continuously pushing the handle 154 by hand toward the receptacle 102, the sloped side 156 is slid along the groove 13 5, thereby seating the perfusion coupler 150 completely within the slot 132. In this position, the fixture 158 is continued to the elbow fixture 514 through the hole 510. Thereby, the outlet fixture 158 is in fluid communication with the pump tube 500.

[0112] The suction line 50 integral with the suction application device 52 is attached to the fixture 486. If the suction application device is capable of supplying perfusion fluid, the perfusion line 51 is attached to the fixture 512. The cassette 420 is set to the operation mode by the setting of the knob 580. Accordingly, the valve assembly 532 will rotate. In many cases, the knob 580 is set so that the valve member 532 rotates to the bypass position. In the by pass position, the valve member 532 is arranged such that the hole 554 is aligned with the opening of the fixture 486 within the boss 480. At the same time, the hole 556 of the valve member is aligned with the boss hole 478. When suction is applied, fluid will flow from the fixture 4 86 and be guided through the bypass passage 550.​

[0113] By operating the suction pump 58, the movable unit 30 is operated. The suction By operating the pump 58, the waste stream is drawn from the surgical site along the suction fluid communication path 184 and into the applicator device 52, and is guided through the suction line 50 and into the fixture 486. This waste stream includes liquid and solid waste on which the suction applicator device 52 acts, and air adjacent to the applicator device 5 2. When the cassette is in the bypass mode described above, the waste is guided from the fixture 486 through the bypass passage 550, through the hole 478 into the passage 454, flows through the duct 522 and into the conduit 59. From the conduit 59, the waste stream will be guided into the cannula 38.

[0114] By operating the peristaltic pump 70, the perfusion fluid is delivered from the perfusion source 72 along the perfusion fluid communication path 182 and is guided through the perfusion line 162, the perfusion connector 150, the pump tube 500, the perfusion connector 472, the perfusion fixture 512, and the perfusion line 51 into the applicator device 52 for delivery to the surgical site.

[0115] The user can select to collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using the cassette 420. By rotating the knob 580, the cassette 420 is placed in the tissue collection mode. In response to this rotation, the valve member 532 rotates. The valve member 532 is positioned such that when in the tissue collection position, the hole 540 in the valve member is aligned with the opening of the fixture 485 in the boss 480. When the valve member is positioned in this position, the hole 542 in the valve member will be aligned with the hole 478.

[0116] When the system is in the tissue collection mode, waste and entrained tissue samples are drawn into the applicator 52 along the aspiration fluid communication path 184 from the surgical site and are led through the suction line 50 into the fixture 486. From the fixture 486, the waste stream passes through the holes 540, cavity 6 16, screen 618, hole 638, hole 542, slot 545, hole 478 and is led into the passage 4 54 and then through the duct 522 into the conduit 59. From the conduit 59, the waste stream is led into the canister 38. The tissue sample 398 will be trapped by the screen 618 in the tissue filter 600. This mode of operation is called the tissue collection mode because the aspiration fluid communication path 184 passes through the tissue filter 600. Note that it is not necessary to block or reconnect the suction line 50 to collect samples in the tissue collection mode. collection mode. collection mode. collection mode.

[0117] The cassette 420 and the tissue trap 598 may be used to collect tissue excised from a patient using an instrument such as forceps. To perform this collection, the knob 58 0 is rotated to the excised tissue capture mode. Rotating the knob to the position associated with this mode causes the valve member 532 to rotate such that the hole 540 is aligned with the tissue sedimentation port 489. At this time, the slot 544 is aligned with the hole 478. The valve member hole 542 is aligned with the hole 478 aligned with the slot 544 and the tissue sedimentation port 489. When the valve member 5 32 is in this position, aspiration through the fixture 486 does not occur. Aspiration occurs from the surrounding environment through the tissue sedimentation port 489. port 489. port 489.

[0118] When the system is in the excised tissue capture mode, the instrument used to excise the tissue is withdrawn from the patient. The distal end of the instrument with the tissue attached is inserted into the tissue sedimentation port 489. The suction drawn through port 489 peels the tissue from the instrument and draws the tissue into the tissue trap container 650. Similarly, the movement of the tissue out of the container is prevented by the tissue filter 600. The tissue trap 598 is removably connected to the valve assembly 530. Before removing the tissue trap 598, the knob 580 is rotated back to the bypass position to disconnect the filter 600 and the sample container 650 from the suction communication path. The tissue trap 598 is designed to be removed from the cassette 420 as a single unit. The trap 598 is removed from the valve assembly 530 by horizontally pulling it away from the valve assembly 530, with the tissue filter 600 and the sample container 650. The other tissue trap 598 can be inserted by horizontally pushing the trap container 650 into the recess 587 so that the edges 623, 624 slide within the L-shaped rail 592, and other tissue samples can be collected. Then, the knob 580 is rotated back to the tissue sample collection position to collect other tissue samples. Multiple tissue samples can be collected using multiple tissue traps 600. One tissue trap 598 is removed from the cassette 420 and a new trap 598 is taken. The movement of the tissue out of the container is similarly prevented by the tissue filter 600.

[0119] The tissue trap 598 is removably connected to the valve assembly 530. Before removing the tissue trap 598, the knob 580 is rotated back to the bypass position to disconnect the filter 600 and the sample container 650 from the suction communication path.

[0120] The tissue trap 598 is designed to be removed from the cassette 420 as a single unit. The trap 598 is removed from the valve assembly 530 by horizontally pulling it away from the valve assembly 530, with the tissue filter 600 and the sample container 650. The other tissue trap 598 can be inserted by horizontally pushing the trap container 650 into the recess 587 so that the edges 623, 624 slide within the L-shaped rail 592, and other tissue samples can be collected. Then, the knob 580 is rotated back to the tissue sample collection position to collect other tissue samples. Multiple tissue samples can be collected using multiple tissue traps 600. One tissue trap 598 is removed from the cassette 420 and a new trap 598 is taken. The tissue trap 598 is removably connected to the valve assembly 530. Before removing the tissue trap 598, the knob 580 is rotated back to the bypass position to disconnect the filter 600 and the sample container 650 from the suction communication path.

[0121] One tissue trap 598 is removed from the cassette 420 and a new trap 598 is taken. During this attachment process, it is not necessary to shut off the suction pump 58. In other words, a new tissue trap 598 can be attached to the cassette 420 without interfering with the suction applied to the suction application device.

[0122] The user places the cap 680 over the tissue filter 600. The cap retainer 683 is aligned with the threaded portions 668, 682. When the cap 680 is rotated relative to the sample container 6 50, the inner surface 696 of the cap 680 contacts the upper panel 602. Rotation of the cap 680 causes the tissue filter 600 to move downward into the compartment 658. The side panel 604 and the lip 611 flex inward and slide along the sample container panel 6 52 until the distal end 636 contacts the bottom panel 6 53. As the tissue filter 600 moves downward within the compartment 658, the pointed tip 698 attached to the bottom panel 653 pierces the foil or plastic seal 614, releasing the storage container 389 and covering the tissue sample 398 as shown in FIG. 17.

[0123] When the cap 680 is rotated relative to the sample container 650, the tab 694 breaks and the cap 680 separates from the cap retainer 683. The user can then remove the cap retainer 683 from the sample container 650 by pulling on the arm 685 .

[0124] Once the medical / surgical procedure is complete and the use of the movable unit 30 is no longer required, the suction line 50 and the irrigation line 51 should be detached from the fixtures 486, 512 respectively, and the irrigation coupler 150 should be detached from the receptacle 410. The ​ The cassette 420 is removed from the receptacle 410. When the cassette 420 is removed from the receptacle 410, the door 136 closes the passageway 118. By closing the passageway 118, substantially eliminates leakage of the waste material remaining in the receptacle 410. The cassette 420 will be discarded as medical waste.

[0125] The outlet fixture 158 forms a seal with the bottom panel 426 at the hole 510 in cooperation therewith. When these components are fitted together, the outlet fixture 158 is dimensioned to press against the bottom panel 426 such that compression of these two components against each other results in a substantially liquid-tight barrier between these components. Thus, there is no need to provide an O-ring or other sealing element. This simplifies the manufacture of the cassette 420.

[0126] Similarly, in aspects of the present invention, it is to be understood that the plastic forming the tissue filter 600 and the sample container 650 is at least partially transparent. This provides a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that a tissue sample has been collected. Further more, the cassette 420 is formed of at least partially transparent material. This provides a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain the collected waste.

[0127] [IV. Third Embodiment] [Receptacle] Referring to FIGS. 23-25, as part of the waste and tissue collection system of the present invention, for use A third manifold assembly 700 is shown that can be used. The manifold assembly 700 includes a receptacle 702 and a cassette 800. The receptacle 702 is shown as having a generally square shape. Other shapes, such as round, oval , or square, may be used.

[0128] The receptacle 702 includes five outer panels, namely, a top panel 705 and a bottom panel 706 that are spaced apart parallel to each other in a generally horizontal orientation, panels 707, 708 that are spaced apart parallel to each other in a generally vertical orientation, and a rear panel 709 that is oriented in a generally vertical direction, and is defined thereby. The receptacle 702 has a proximal end 710 and a distal end 712 The bottom panel 706 defines a notch 714 disposed near the proximal end 710 The receptacle 702 may be formed from any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic .

[0129] The receptacle 702 defines a horizontally oriented cavity or passage 716. The cavity or passage 716 extends across the width of the receptacle 702 and extends into the rear panel 708 of the receptacle 70 2. A generally round opening 720 is defined in the top panel 705 near the rear panel 709. An opening 722 penetrates the rear panel 709 at the distal end 712 adjacent to the panel 708. A pair of elongated grooves 724 that face each other and are parallel are defined in each of the inner surfaces of the panels 707, 708. The grooves 724 face towards the cavity or passage 716. The top panel 705 defines a pair of notches 746, 748 that are adjacent to each other and have the same spread at the proximal end 710. The notch 746 is, , It extends somewhat deeper into the upper panel 705 than the notch 748.

[0130] Several holes penetrate the upper panel 705. These holes 760, 762, 764 , 766, 768, 770 extend through the upper panel 705 into the cavity 716. The clamps motor or linear actuator 80 is mounted above each of the holes 760 - 770, and only one of them is shown in FIG. 24B. One end of the rod 81 is connected to the actuator 80, and the rounded other end of the rod 81 is positioned on the pinch valve 872. The rod 81 penetrates the upper panel 705 in order to contact the pinch valve 872.

[0131] The perfusion coupler 730 provides a fluid connection between a perfusion fluid source such as the water bottle 1500 and the cassette 800. The perfusion coupler 730 extends from the bottom (lower) side of the surface 706 adjacent to the panel 70 7 towards the proximal end 710. The perfusion coupler 730 has a generally rectangular body 732 with a proximal end 73 4 and a distal end 736. A pair of generally parallel arms 738 extend towards the proximal end 734, defining a slot 742 therebetween. Grooves 740 facing each other are defined on the inner surfaces of the arms 738 so as to face the slot 742 respectively. Finger portions 744 are disposed on each arm 738 and extend into the grooves 740.

[0132] [B. Cassette] Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, the details of the cassette 800 are shown. The cassette 8 00 is generally rectangular and includes a housing 822. The housing 822 has three ​The portion, namely, the upper housing 824, the opposing lower housing 826, and the upper has a rubber sheet 1000 disposed between the housing 824 and the lower housing 826 and is shown as having two parts, but it is also contemplated that it may be formed as a single unitary piece. The upper housing 824, the rubber sheet 1000, and the lower housing 826 are fitted together to form the housing 822 . The cavity 827 is defined within the housing 822 between the upper housing 824 and the lower housing 826 .

[0133] The upper housing 824 includes a flat upper panel 828, a front panel 829, a rear panel 830, and side panels 832, 834. The panels 828, 829, 830, 832, 834 extend perpendicularly away from the upper panel 828. The upper housing 824 has a proximal end 835 and a distal end 836. Tapered regions 837 are defined in the panels 832, 834 respectively at the distal end 836 . The tapered region 831 guides the housing 822 into the receptacle 702 during insertion of the cassette 800 . The cassette 800 may be formed of any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic . In one embodiment, the cassette 800 is formed of a transparent material .

[0134] As shown in FIGS. 26, 27 and 30A - 30C, a flexible tab 838 is defined in the upper panel 828 by a U - shaped slit 840 . A protrusion 841 extends upward from the flexible tab 838, and a series of parallel ribs 842 extend upward from the flexible tab 838 and and is oriented perpendicular to the major axis of the flexible tab 838. The flexible tab 838 is adapted to be displaced somewhat by a manual push applied by the user. The inclined surface 84 4 slopes downward toward the front panel 829 at a position adjacent to the flexible tab 838 of the upper panel 828 and substantially terminates at the center of the front panel 829 above the U-shaped opening 846. The inclined surface 844 is transparent.

[0135] Another U-shaped opening 847 is disposed in the front panel 829 near the panel 834. An additional U-shaped opening 848 is disposed in the front panel 829 near the panel 835. A shallow notch 849 is defined in the panel 829 between the openings 846, 848. Still another U-shaped opening 852 is disposed in the rear panel 8 30 near the panel 834.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 30A - 30C, six pinch valves are defined in the upper panel 828. The pinch valves are flexible and are adapted to be pushed downward by a device such as a solenoid or a wax motor (not shown). The perfusion supply pinch valve 860 is defined in the upper panel 828 by a substantially U-shaped slit 862. The perfusion supply pinch valve 860 has a downwardly extending finger portion 864 facing toward the cavity 827.

[0137] The instrument cleaning perfusion pinch valve 866 is defined in the upper panel 828 by a substantially U-shaped slit 868. The instrument cleaning perfusion pinch valve 866 has a downwardly extending finger portion 870 facing toward the cavity 827.

[0138] ​​​​​​​​​​​The suction bypass pinch valve 872 is defined on the upper panel 828 by a substantially U-shaped slit 874. The suction pinch valve 872 has a downwardly extending finger portion 876 that faces towards the inside of the cavity 827. The tissue collection suction pinch valve 878 is defined on the upper panel 828 by a substantially U-shaped slit 880. The tissue collection suction pinch valve 878 has a downwardly extending finger portion 882 that faces towards the inside of the cavity 827.

[0139] Another tissue collection suction pinch valve 884 is defined on the upper panel 82 8 by a substantially U-shaped slit 886. The tissue absorption suction pinch valve 884 has a downwardly extending fin ger portion 888 that faces towards the cavity 827. The forceps cleaning suction pinch valve 890 is defined on the upper panel 828 by a substantially U-shaped slit 892. The forceps cleaning suction pinch valve 89 0 has a downwardly extending finger portion 894 that faces towards the inside of the cavity 827.

[0140] The linear actuator 80 (FIG. 24B) can push in these pinch valves and open the pinch valves. In FIG. 24B, the actuator 80 is shown in a state of being connected to a rod 81 that is in contact with the pinch valve 872. When the rod 81 is lowered, the fin ger portion 876 contacts the suction passage 1076. The suction passage 1076 is squeezed between the finger portion 8 76 and the bottom panel 932, whereby the fluid flow through the suction passage 1076 is blocked. When the rod 81 is lifted, the finger portion 876 is lifted from the suction passage 1076, and the fluid flow can pass through the suction passage 10876.

[0141] The curved panel portion 896 of the upper panel 828 defines a recess 897. The curved The panel portion 896 extends from the rear panel 830 towards the dome 898. The semi-circular dome 898 is defined in the upper panel 828. The semi-circular slot 900 is defined in the upper panel 828 between the dome 898 and the curved panel portion 896. .

[0142] A pair of spaced and curved panels 902, 903 extend from the slot 900 towards the proximal end 835. The panels 902, 903 are substantially parallel to each other and extend perpendicularly away from the upper panel 828, defining a passage 904. Another pair of spaced panels 905, 906 are respectively disposed between the finger portions 864, 870. The panel 905 extends perpendicularly from the upper panel 828 and joins the proximal end of the panel 903, forming a passage 908. The panel 906 extends perpendicularly from the upper panel 828, curves and terminates at the inclined surface 844, and cooperates with the panel 902 to form a passage 910. The panel 911 is disposed between the panels 902, 906 and is adjacent to the inclined surface 844. The panel 911 extends perpendicularly away from the upper panel 828. The panels 902, 911, 906 define a pair of outlets 912 at positions adjacent to the inclined surface 844. .

[0143] An additional pair of spaced and curved panels 914, 916 extend from the slot 900 towards the fin portion 870 and terminate at the panel 902. The panels 914, 916 are substantially parallel to each other and extend perpendicularly away from the upper panel 828, defining a passage 917. The panels 918, 919 spaced substantially parallel to each other are adjacent to the panel 834. ​​​​​In the illustrated embodiment, the panel 918 extends substantially between a proximal end 835 and a distal end 836. , 919 are generally parallel to one another and extend perpendicularly away from the upper panel 828 and define the passages 9 20. The spaced apart, generally curved panels 926, 927 form a V-shape. The panels 926 and 927 are formed of an upper panel and extend substantially between the panels 919 and 917. 9. The nozzle 828 extends perpendicularly away from the nozzle 828 and defines a passageway 928. The branch portion 922 branches from the passage 920 in the direction of the finger portion 888. It is tilted.

[0144] 26, 27 and 28A to 28C, the lower housing 826 is The base panel 930 has a face 932, a bottom face 934, and sides 937, 938. The lower housing 826 has a proximal end 935 and a distal end 936. 40 extends perpendicularly from the upper surface 932 at the corner of the side surface 937 and the distal end 936. The wedge-shaped post 942 extends from the upper surface 932 at the corner of the side surface 938 and the distal end 936. The fixture 944 extends through the post 942 at a right angle. An outwardly tapered distal end including an annular groove 946 sized to receive a stud 947. It has an end 945 .

[0145] Another wedge-shaped post 948 extends from the upper surface 932 at the corner of the side surface 938 and the proximal end 935. The fitting 949 extends through the post 948 at a right angle. An outwardly tapered proximal end 950 sized to receive the line 50 (FIG. 1A) The additional wedge posts 952 are at the corners of the side surfaces 937 and the proximal end 935. It extends perpendicularly from the upper surface 932. The fixture 954 penetrates the post 952. The fixture 954 has an outward distal end 9 55 sized to receive the perfusion line 51 (FIG. 1A). To hold the perfusion line 51 in the fixture 954, a series of cones or spines 956 surround the fixture 954. The wider base of the spine 956 faces the front panel 93 5.

[0146] The fixture 958 extends perpendicularly from the front panel surface 935. The recess 960 is defined on the upper surface 932 at a position immediately distal to the fixture 9 58. A generally square stopper 962 extends perpendicularly from the upper surface 932 at a position adjacent to the recess 960 of the proximal end 935. The inclined panel 964 slopes upward from the upper surface 932 at a position adjacent to the post 952 and terminates at a location adjacent to the stopper 962. The inclined panel 964 defines a groove 990 on the bottom surface 9 34. The recess 963 is defined on the bottom surface 934 below the stopper 962.

[0147] The inclined panel 967 slopes upward from the upper surface 932. Specifically, the inclined panel 9 67 starts at a position near the center of the lower housing 826 and terminates at the dome 968 . The dome 968 extends distally from the upper surface 932. The recess 969 is defined on the bottom surface 934 below the inclined panel 967 and the dome 968. The indentation 966 is defined on the upper surface 932. The indentation 966 extends upward from the post 952 above the inclined panel 967, bypasses the outer periphery of the dome 968, extends below the inclined panel 967, and terminates at the hole 970 . The hole 970 penetrates the panel 930.

[0148] ​​ A pair of parallel recesses 965 are defined in the inclined panel 964 so as to extend along the width of the inclined panel 964. Other recesses 972 are defined in the upper surface 932 so as to extend between the recesses 966 and 965. Holes 974 and 975 are defined in the panel 930 so as to penetrate the panel 930. A recess 976 is defined in the upper surface 932 so as to extend between the posts 942 and 948. The recess 976 is coaxial with the fixtures 949 and 945 and has the same spread. A recess 978 is defined in the upper surface 932 so as to extend between the recess 960 and the hole 974. A recess 980 is defined in the upper surface 932 so as to extend between the recess 976 and the hole 974. A recess 981 is defined in the upper surface 932 so as to extend between the recess 976 and the hole 975.

[0149] The U-shaped semi-circular rail 982 extends perpendicularly from below the bottom surface 934 towards the proximal end 935 and adjacent to the side surface 938. The rails 892 have ends 983 facing each other and inward-facing lips 984. The rails 982 and the bottom surface 934 define a recess 985. The round boss 986 extends from the bottom surface 934 into the recess 985 and surrounds the hole 975. A recess 988 is defined in the bottom surface 934 between the rail 982 and the side surface 937 and surrounds the hole 970.

[0150] Referring to FIGS. 26, 27, and 29A - 29C, the details of the flexible sheet 1000 are shown. The flexible sheet 1000 is sandwiched between the upper housing 824 and the lower housing 826. The flexible sheet 1000 can be made of any suitable material, such as rubber or It may be formed from silicone rubber.

[0151] The flexible sheet 1000 includes a base panel 1030 having a top surface 1032, a bottom surface 1034, and side surfaces 1037, 1038. The flexible sheet 1000 has a proximal end 1035 and a distal end 1036. The inclined area 1042 is inclined distally from the top surface 1032 at the corner of the side surface 1038 and the distal end 1036. The inclined area 1042 is an area for covering the post 942. Another inclined area 1044 is inclined distally from the top surface 1032 at the corner of the side surface 1038 and the proximal end 1035. The inclined area 1044 is an area for covering the post 948. Still another inclined area 1048 is inclined distally from the top surface 1032 at the corner of the side surface 1037 and the proximal end 1035. The inclined area 1048 is an area for covering the post 952.

[0152] The inclined panel 1067 is inclined upward from the top surface 1032. Specifically, the inclined panel 1967 starts from a position close to the center of the flexible sheet 1000 and ends at the dome 1068. The dome 1068 extends distally from the top surface 1032. The recess 1069 is defined on the bottom surface 1034 below the inclined panel 1067 and the dome 1068.

[0153] The panels 1051, 1052, 1053, 1050 extend perpendicularly from the top surface 1032 toward the proximal end 1035 and define the instrument washing chamber 1050. The panels 1053, 1052 are inclined downward from the panel 1054 toward the panel 1051. The U-shaped port 1056 is defined on the panel 1051.

[0154] The perfusion passage 1066 is defined in the panel 1030 so as to open towards the bottom surface 934. The perfusion passage 1066 extends from the end 1069 of the inclined panel 1048 along the inclined panel 1067, circumvents the outer periphery of the dome 1068, extends along the inclined panel 1067, and terminates at the end 1070.

[0155] A set of mutually parallel perfusion tubes 1065 is defined in the panel 1030 so as to open towards the bottom surface 1034. The perfusion tubes 1065 extend along the width of the inclined panel 1064 and terminate at the instrument cleaning chamber 1050. Another perfusion tube 1072 is defined in the panel 1030 so as to open towards the bottom surface 1034. The perfusion tube 1072 extends between the perfusion tube 1065 and the perfusion passage 1076. The perfusion tubes 1065, 1066, 1072 are in fluid communication with each other.

[0156] The suction tube 1076 is defined in the panel 1030 so as to open towards the bottom surface 1034. The suction tube 1076 extends between the inclined regions 1044 and 1046. The suction tube 1078 is defined in the panel 1030 so as to open towards the bottom surface 1034. The suction tube 1078 extends between the joint 1082 and the instrument cleaning chamber 1050. The suction tube 1080 is defined in the panel 1030 so as to open towards the bottom surface 1034. The suction tube 1080 extends between the suction tube 1076 and the joint 1082. The instrument cleaning chamber 1050, the suction tubes 1076, 1078, 1080 are in fluid communication with each other. The suction tube 1081 is between the suction tube 1076 and the joint 1 extends between 083. The suction tubes 1076, 1081 are in fluid communication with each other are.

[0157] The generally square stopper 1086 extends perpendicularly from the upper surface 1032 at a position adjacent to the instrument cleaning chamber 1050 of the proximal end 1035 is. The recess 1088 is defined in the bottom surface 1034 below the stopper 1086. The cap 1090 is connected to the flexible arm 1092 is. The arm 1092 is connected to the proximal end 1035 at a position adjacent to the inclined panel 1064 is.

[0158] The upper housing 824 and the lower housing 826 are fitted with the rubber sheet 100 0 therebetween to form the housing 822 of the cassette 800. The housings 824, 826 are held together by press-fitting or snap-fitting the two housing areas together are. In one embodiment, the housings 824, 826 are held together by an adhesive are. At the mating position, the rubber sheet 1000 is sandwiched between the upper housing 824 and the lower housing 825. Due to the compressive force between the upper housing 824 and the lower housing 826, a fluid path seal is formed between the rubber sheet 1000 and the lower housing 826 is.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, a tissue trap 1198 is shown. The tissue trap 1198 includes a sample container 1400 on which a tissue filter 1200 is seated. The tissue trap 1200 is generally cylindrical. Other shapes, such as round, oval, or square may be used. The tissue filter 1200 can be made of any suitable material, such as even if it is formed from a low durometer hardness plastic or a thermoplastic elastomer It is preferable that the tissue filter 1200 is formed of a transparent material so that the contents can be observed by the user.

[0160] The tissue filter 1200 is defined by an upper panel 1202. The upper panel 12 02 has a bottom surface 1203 and an upper surface 1204. The hole 1250 is defined in the upper panel 1202 so as to be surrounded by a recess 1252. An opening 1254 is defined in the upper panel 12 02. The substantially annular side panel 1206 extends perpendicularly away from the periphery of the upper panel 1202 and the bottom surface 1203. Flat portions 1256 are disposed on opposite sides of the annular side panel 1206. Flexible prongs or tongues 12 58 extend outwardly from each flat portion 1256 and are spaced apart from each flat portion by a gap 1260.

[0161] A pair of juxtaposed elongated hollow tubes 1210, 1216 extend distally from the bottom surface 1203. The tube 1210 has a proximal end 1211 and a distal end 1212. The tube 1216 has a proximal end 1217 and a distal end 1218. The proximal ends 12 11, 1217 are connected to the bottom surface 1203. In one embodiment, the tubes 12 10, 1216 can contain a preservation solution 389 (FIG. 22D), such as formalin or other suitable preservation solution. In other embodiments, the preservation solution is omitted. The preservation solution 389 is sealed within the tubes 1210, 1216 by a foil or plastic seal 12 36.

[0162] ​​​​Another elongated tube 1222 extends distally from the bottom surface 1203. Tube 1 222 has a proximal end 1224 and a distal end 1226. The proximal end 1224 is the bottom surface 1203 is connected. The bottom panel 1227 is at the distal end 1126 of the tube 1222 is arranged. An elongated opening 1228 extending between the proximal end 1224 and the distal end 1226 is defined in the tube 1222. The tube 1222 has a cavity 1230 . The cavity 1230 is continuous with the opening 1254 or has the same spread. S creen 1234 extends across the diameter of the tube 1222 near the distal end 1226 . The tissue sample 398 captured by the screen 1234 is shown in FIG. 31 .

[0163] An elongated duct 1240 extends distally from the bottom surface 1203. Duct 1240 has a proximal end 1242 (not shown) and a distal end 1244. The proximal end 1242 is connected to the bottom surface 1203. The distal end 1244 is at the end of the tubes 1210, 1216 extends somewhat beyond. A hole 124 6 extending between the distal end 1244 and the hole 1250 is defined in the duct 1240

[0164] The sample container or vial 1400 is generally square with rounded corners. The sample con tainer 1400 has an outer panel 1402 and a bottom panel 1404. Two mutually spaced flat gripping areas 1406 are arranged on opposite sides of the outer panel 1402 of the sample container 1400 facing each other. A compartment 1408 is defined within the sample container 1400. The sample container 1400 has an upper end 1410 and a lower end 1412. The sample container 1400 is It is formed of a transparent material so that the contents of the section 1408 can be observed by the user. It is.

[0165] The annular flange 1416 extends circumferentially outward from the panel 1402 at the upper end 1410. The flange 1416 has an inner surface 1418 and an outer surface 1420. The annular neck portion 1422 is defined on the outer surface 1420. Two opposed areas 1424 are arranged on the inner surface 1418. The step 1426 extends over the entire circumference of the inner surface 1418 and extends from the inner surface 1418. The step 1426 slopes downward from the flange 1416 toward the panel 1402.

[0166] The rim 1430 extends circumferentially downward from the bottom panel 1404. The rim 1430 has a sloped or angled edge 1432 that slopes inward from the outer panel 1402. The boss 1436 extends distally from the bottom panel 1404 at a position adjacent to one side of the rim 1430. The pointed tip 1437 extends upward from the bottom panel 1404 into the section 1 408. The window 1438 is arranged on the outer panel 1402. Through the window 143 8, the user can observe the contents of the section 1408.

[0167] The circular cap 1450 has an upper panel 1452 and an annular side panel 1454. The side panel 1454 extends downward at a right angle from the upper panel 1452. To make it easier for the user to grip the cap, the serrated rib 1456 is arranged on the outer surface of the side panel 1454. The rim 1458 extends upward at a right angle from the upper panel 1452. The annular threaded portion 1460 is defined on the inner surface of the side panel 1454. The annular flange 146​​​​ 2 extends at a right angle away from the lower upper panel 1452 at a position somewhat parallelly spaced from the side panel 1454. A pair of opposed notches 1464 are defined in the flange 1462. The oblong hole 1466 is defined between the flange 1462 and the side panel 1454.

[0168] The cap 1450 is adapted to be attached to the upper end 1410 of the sample container 1400 by rotating the cap 1450 relative to the sample container 1400 and fitting the threaded portions 1422, 1460. Also, the cap 1450 may be attached to the bottom end 1412 of the sample container 1400. In this case, the user will place the rim 1458 adjacent to and against the rim 1430. The beveled edge 1432 guides the rim 1458 into frictional contact with the rim 1430, whereby the cap 1450 can be held at the bottom of the sample container 1400.

[0169] The identification device 376 is attached to the outer panel 1402. The identification device 376 has the same structure as the aforementioned identification device and is adapted to perform the same function.

[0170] The tissue sample 398 can be a wide variety of tissue samples. For example, the tissue sample 398 may be a biopsy sample from an in-vivo location or a polyp from the colon. The tissue filter 1200 will slide within the compartment 1408 until the prong or tongue 1258 engages the flat area 1424 above the step 1426. At this point, the step 1426 prevents further insertion of the tissue filter 1200 into the compartment 1408. ​​​​​​ It will provide resistance.

[0171] The tissue trap 1198 is removably connected to the cassette 800. . The trap 1190 horizontally pushes the tissue filter 1200 and the sample container 1400 into the cavity 985, slides the flange 1416 and the threaded portion 1422 into the L-shaped rail 982, and is inserted by being held by the lip 984. The trap 1198 will hang down below the cassette 800. The trap 1198 horizontally pulls the tissue filter 12 00 and the sample container 1400 away from the cassette 800, and is removed from the cassette 800. A large number of tissue traps 1200 can be used to collect a large number of tissue samples.

[0172] The user places the cap 1450 on top of the tissue filter 1200. When the cap 1 450 is rotated with respect to the sample container 1400, the upper surface of the upper panel 1452 of the cap contacts the upper panel 1204 of the tissue filter 1200. By means of the threaded portions 1422, 1460, the rotation of the cap 1450 moves the tissue filter 1200 downward into the partition 1408. By means of the step 1426, the prong or tongue 1258 bends inward and slides along the sample container panel 1406 until the bottom edge of the panel 12 06 abuts against the step 1426. When the tissue filter 1200 moves downward into the partition 1408, the sharp tip 1437 attached to the bottom panel 1404 pierces the foil or plastic seal 1236 and releases the preservation solution 389 (FIG. 17) to cover the tissue sample 398.

[0173] 33 and 34, a water bottle 1500 is shown. The water bottle 1500 is approximately It is shown as having a rectangular shape. Other shapes, e.g., round or oval, may be used. The water bottle 1500 may be made up of six exterior panels, i.e., parallel and spaced apart. The panels 1502 and 1504 are generally vertically oriented, and the panels 1502 and 1504 are generally vertically oriented and spaced apart parallel to each other. oriented vertically and a bottom panel 1510 oriented generally horizontally. , the top panel 1511 is defined by the side panels 1502, 1504, 1506, 1508, 1509, 1510, 1511a, 1510b, 1510c, 1510d, 1510e, 1510f, 1510g, 1510h, 1510hb, 1510hb, 15 6, 1508. Side panels 1502, 1504, 1506, 150 The water bottle 1500 has a top end 1514 and a bottom end 1515. It has 12.

[0174] Panels 1502, 1504, 1506, 1508, 1510, and 1511 are Aquarius 150 The water bottle 1500 may be made of any suitable material, e.g. For example, the water bottle 150 may be made of blow molded plastic. 0 indicates that the contents or level of the reservoir 1520 is to be observed by the user. It is made of a transparent material.

[0175] The water bottle 1500 has a neck 1524 extending away from the top wall 1511 . An annular flange 1526 surrounds the neck 1524. A threaded portion 1528 is At 514, an opening 1530 is defined in the outer surface of the neck 1524. The elongated tube 1540 has ends 1542, 1543 and 1544 therein, providing access to the tubing 1520. 44. Circular cap 1560 has a threaded portion 1562, an annular flange at one end, It has a flange 1564 and a small-diameter neck 1566. The holes 1570, 1572 are defined in the flange 1564.

[0176] The water bottle 1500 is filled with an infusion fluid. The water bottle 1500 passes the tube end 15 42 through the hole 1570 of the cap 1560, and passes the tube end 1544 through the opening 1530 and is placed inside the bottle 1500, thus being incorporated. By the hole 1572 the air pressure inside the bottle 1500 and the air pressure outside the bottle 1500 become equal, thereby preventing a vacuum from being generated inside the bottle 1500.

[0177] The water bottle 1500 is removably connected to the receptacle 702. The water bottle 1500 is inserted by the user manually sliding the water bottle 1500 horizontally in the long hole 742 so that the arm 740 bends and grabs the neck 1 566. The water bottle 1500 hangs below the cassette 800 supported by the flange 1564 in this way. The finger part 744 holds the water bottle 1500 so that it does not fall out of the long hole 742 . The water bottle 1500 is removed from the cassette 800 by the user manually pulling it horizontally in the direction away from the cassette 800, thereby bending the arm 740 and sliding the neck 1566 beyond the finger part 744 in this way.

[0178] [C. Operation] Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, 15B, and 23-34, the movable unit 30 ( FIG. 1A) allows the user to move the cassette 800 (where waste collected from the surgical site is collected ​​The complementary receptacle 702 of the manifold assembly 700 associated with the canister 38 (which will be) will be ready for use by being inserted into the receptacle 702. This step is performed by aligning the tapered area 837 of the cassette 800 with the groove 724 of the receptacle 702 and sliding the cassette 800 into the passageway or cavity 716. The side surfaces 832, 834 slide along the groove 724 until the rear panel 830 contacts the rear panel 709 of the receptacle 702. At this position, the fixture 944 seats on the suction conduit 59 and will be in fluid communication with the suction conduit 59 (Figure 15B). The rib 842 of the flexible tab 838 flexes below the leading edge 749 of the upper panel 705. The flexible tab 842 will hold the cassette 800 in the air cavity or passageway 716.

[0179] The peristaltic pump roller 74 is attached through the opening 720 so as to contact the perfusion passage 1076 The perfusion passage 1076 is squeezed between the peristaltic pump roller 74 and the recess 966 As a result, the perfusion fluid will be pumped through the perfusion passage 1076 by the rotation of the roller 74 The roller 74 and the pump motor 71 are attached at an angle offset from a vertical axis defined to be orthogonal to the upper panel 705, whereby the roller 74 can rotate freely without contacting the dome 898.

[0180] The RFID reader 194 recognizes an identification device 376 such as an RFID tag and transmits a signal to the controller 192 that enables the operation of the movable unit 30 when the cassette 800 is seated within the receptacle 702.

[0181] ​​​​The water bottle 1500 is attached to the receptacle 702 by being inserted horizontally into the slot 742 such that the arm 740 bends to grasp the neck 1566. The water bottle 150 0 hangs below the cassette 800 supported by the flange 1564. By the fin guard portion 744, the water bottle 1500 is held so as not to fall out of the slot 742. In this position, the annular flange hole 1570 is pressed against the hole 970 and is in fluid communication with the perfusion passage 1066.

[0182] The tissue filter 1200 and the sample container 1400 are attached to the cassette 800 by horizontally inserting the tissue filter 1200 and the sample container 1400 into the cavity 985, sliding the flange 1416 and the threaded portion 1422 into the L-shaped rail 982, and holding them by the lip 984. The tissue filter 1200 and the sample container 1400 will hang below the cassette 800.

[0183] The movable unit 30 is ready for use by attaching the suction line 50 to the fixture 949 and the perfusion line 5 1 to the fixture 954 to connect an applicator device 52 such as a colonoscope to the unit. The cap 1090 is initially placed covering the second suction fixture 958, thereby sealing the second suction fixture 95 8.

[0184] The movable unit 30 is actuated by operating the suction pump 58 and the peristaltic pump 70. The operator selects the operation mode using the control panel 196. When the operator selects the bypass mode, by the pinch valve actuator 80 ​ , pinch valves 884 and 878 are closed, and pinch valve 872 is open. Upon actuation, the waste stream is directed from the surgical site along the suction fluid communication path 184 to the applicator 5. 2 and directed through suction line 50 to fitting 949. The suction application device 52 acts on liquid waste and solid waste and is adjacent to the application device. From the fitting 949, the waste stream passes through the recess 976, the suction tube 107, 6, and fitting 944 into conduit 59. From conduit 59, the waste stream is , into the associated canister 36 or 38. This mode of operation is The path 184 is referred to as the bypass mode because it bypasses the tissue filter 1200. .

[0185] The liquid and solid components of the waste stream entering the canister 36 or 38 are allowed to settle out of the stream. The fuel falls and is retained in the canisters 36, 38 and ultimately disposed of.

[0186] Operation of the peristaltic pump 70 pumps irrigation fluid from the water bottle 1500 through the irrigation fluid communication path 18. 2, the tube 1540, the hole 970, the recess 966, the irrigation passage 1076, the fitting 95 4, and through irrigation line 51 to applicator 52 for delivery to the surgical site. This will be the case.

[0187] The user may use cassette 800 to collect a tissue sample, such as a polyp. The cassette 800 can be selected by the actuator 80. The operating mode is selected by moving the choke valve. The operator operates the control panel. Using 196, the operation mode is selectable. When the operator selects the tissue collection mode the pinch valves 872, 890 are closed and the pinch valves 884, 878 are opened .

[0188] The movable unit 30 will be reactivated by reactivating the suction pump 58 and the peristaltic pump 70. When the system is in this operation mode, the waste stream, along with the tissue sample being incorporated , is drawn from the surgical site along the suction fluid communication path 184 into the applicator 5 2 and through the suction line 50 into the fixture 949. This waste stream contains the liquid and solid waste and the tissue sample 398 on which the applicator 398 acts and the air adjacent to the applicator 52. From the fixture 949, the waste stream passes through the recess 976 and the suction tube 1076, the recess 98

[0189] 0 and the suction tube 1080, the hole 974, the cavity 1230, the screen 1234, the hole 12 46, the hole 1250, the hole 975 into the recess 981 and the suction tube 1081, the recess 9 76 and the suction tube 1976, through the fixture 944 and is led into the conduit 59 . From the conduit 59, the waste stream is led into the associated canister 36 or 38. Note that it is not necessary to block or reconnect the suction line 50 to collect the sample by the tissue collection mode. The tissue sample 398 will be captured by the screen 1234 in the tissue filter 1200. This operation mode is called the tissue collection mode because the suction fluid communication path 184 passes through the tissue filter 1200.

[0190] The user can select to collect the tissue sample removed by the instrument using the cassette 800 and the tissue trap 1198. The cassette 800 is placed in the excised tissue capture mode by moving the pinch valve selected by the actuator 80. The operator will place the cassette in this mode using the control panel 196. In the excised tissue capture mode, the pinch valves 872, 878 are closed and the pinch valves 884, 890 are opened. The cap 1090 will be removed from the fixture 958. When the system is in the excised tissue capture mode, the waste stream is drawn from the fixture 958 into the instrument wash chamber 1050 along the suction fluid communication path 184. The user may send the tissue sample 398 held by the instrument (not shown) through the fixture 958 into the instrument wash chamber 1050. The tissue sample in the instrument wash chamber 1050 can be observed through the transparent inclined surface 844. The operator can adjust the supply of the perfusion fluid using the control panel 196. When the pinch valve 866 is opened by one of the actuators 80, the perfusion fluid is supplied to the instrument wash chamber 1050. The pressurized perfusion fluid is guided from the perfusion passage 1076 through the perfusion tubes 1072, 1065 into the instrument wash chamber 1050, thereby washing the tissue sample placed in the instrument wash chamber 1050. From the fixture 949, the tissue sample and the waste stream are through the recess 978 and the suction tube

[0191]

[0192]

[0193] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​1078, hole 974, cavity 1230, screen 1234, hole 1246, hole 1250, hole through 975, recess 981 and suction tube 1081, recess 976 and suction tube 1076, and fixture 944, and is led into conduit 59. From conduit 59, the waste stream is led into the associated canister 36 or 38. The tissue sample 398 is captured by the screen 1234 in the tissue filter 1200. This mode of operation is referred to as the forceps sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path 184 passes through the instrument cleaning chamber 1050 and the tissue filter 1200.

[0194] To remove the tissue trap 1198, the operator first uses the control panel 196 to return the operating mode of the movable unit 30 to the bypass mode. This allows the suction communication path to be removed from the tissue trap 1198. The tissue filter 1200 and the sample container 1400 are removed from the cassette 800 by horizontally pulling the tissue filter 1200 and the sample container 1400 away from the cassette 800 and sliding the sample container 1400 out along the rail 982. To collect other tissue samples, other tissue filters 1200 and sample containers 1400 may be inserted into the cavity 985 horizontally along the rail 982. The tissue trap 1198 is adapted to be inserted into the cassette 800 as a single unit and removed from the cassette 800.

[0195] Remove one tissue trap 1198 from the cassette 800 and a new trap 1198 During this process of attaching 2, it is not necessary to shut off the suction pump 58. In other words, a new tissue trap 1198 can be attached to the cassette 800 without interfering with the suction applied to the suction imparting device.

[0196] To collect other tissue samples, the operator will use the control panel 196 to return the operating mode of the movable unit 30 to the tissue sample collection mode.

[0197] The user places the cap 1450 over the tissue filter 1200. When the cap 1 450 is rotated relative to the sample container 1400, the inner surface of the upper panel 1452 of the cap contacts the upper panel 1204 of the tissue filter 1200. By means of the screw portions 1422, 1460 the rotation of the cap 1450 will move the tissue filter 1200 downward into the compartment 1408. By the wall 1462, the prong or tongue 1258 flexes inward and slides along the sample container panel 1406 until the bottom edge of the panel 1206 abuts the step 1426. When the tissue filter 1200 moves downward into the compartment 1408, the pointed tip 1437 attached to the bottom panel 1 404 pierces the foil or plastic seal 1236, releasing the preservation solution 389 (FIG. 17) to cover the tissue sample 398.

[0198] Once the medical / surgical procedure is complete and the use of the movable unit 30 is no longer required, the suction line 50 and the perfusion line 51 are detached from the fixtures 949, 958 respectively. The cassette 800 is removed by manually pushing in the flexible tab 838 and manually pulling the cassette 800 from the receptacle 702. Then, the ca ​ The set 800 is to be discarded as medical waste.

[0199] After use, the movable unit 30 is connected to a dock (not shown and not part of the present invention). The waste material in the canister 36 or 38 is to be flowed through the dock to a processing facility.

[0200] Similarly, in aspects of the present invention, it should be understood that the plastic forming the tissue filter 1200 and the sample container 1400 is at least partially transparent. This will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that a tissue sample has been collected. Further, the cassette 800 is formed of at least partially transparent material. This will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain collected waste.

[0201] The present invention enables the suction fluid communication path to be selectively changed to pass inside or outside the tissue sample container.

[0202] [V. Fourth Embodiment] [A. Receptacle] Figs. 35 - 42 show an alternative cassette 1700 for use with an alternative manifold receptacle 1699 which is part of the collection system of Fig. 1A. The manifold receptacle 1699, sometimes referred to as a manifold receiver, is disclosed in detail in U.S. Patent No. 7,615,037 which will be incorporated herein by reference.

[0203] Referring particularly to Figs. 35 and 36, the manifold receptacle 1699 has three ​It is provided with a main stationary component. The housing 1602 receives the proximal end of the cassette 1700 The receiver adapter 1604 holds the housing 1602 of the manifold receptacle in the associated canister cap 40 (Figure 1A). Also, the adapter 1604 functions as a flow path from the manifold housing 1602 to the associated canister 36 and is also provided with a conduit 59. The lock ring 1606 is attached to the distal end (front end) of the manifold housing 1602. The lock ring 1066 has geometric features to ensure that the cassette 1700 is properly aligned when the cassette 1700 is mounted in the receptacle 1699 formed.

[0204] The housing 1602 is formed to define coaxial passages or holes 1610, 1 612 that penetrate the housing 1602. The spring-biased door 1634 is attached to the distal end of the housing 1602. The door 1634 can be selectively opened by the insertion of the cassette 1700 and selectively closed by the removal of the cassette 1700.

[0205] The conduit 59 that provides a fluid communication path from the housing 1602 to the associated canister 36 is shaped like an elbow with a bend of 80° to 90°. The distal end of the conduit 59 extends into the cassette 1700.

[0206] The lock ring 1606 is generally ring-shaped and has a central through-opening 1615 and a number of holes 1616 penetrate the ring longitudinally. The holes 1616 are for locking ​The fixture used to hold the ring 1606 to the manifold assembly 1602 is received. The lock ring 1606 is further formed to define a pair of elongated holes 1618, 1620 (elongated hole 1618 is located behind the cassette 1700 in FIG. 35). The elongated holes 1618, 1620 are continuous with the through opening 1615 and extend radially outward from the opening 1615 to the proximal end of the lock ring 1606. The elongated holes 1618, 1620 are diametrically opposed to each other and have different arcuate contours. Elongated hole 1618 defines a larger arc than the arc defined by elongated hole 1620.

[0207] Both elongated holes 1618, 1620 extend over the length of the lock ring 1606 . The lock ring 1606 is further formed to have a pair of grooves 1622 at its proximal end. Each groove is arcuately shaped and is formed inside the lock ring. Also, each groove 1622 is continuous with one of the elongated holes 1618, 1620. These grooves 1622 are diametrically opposed to each other. When the proximal end of the lock ring 1606 abuts against the surface facing the distal side of the housing 1602, the grooves 1622 will function as elongated holes through which tabs integral with the cassette 1700 pass, as will be described in more detail below.

[0208] The valve disk 1632 normally covers the opening to the conduit 59. When the cassette 1700 is not inserted, the spring-biased door 1634 spans the distal end opening to the hole 1610 in the housing 1602.

[0209] The manifold receptacle 1699 is configured such that when the valve disk 1632 is in a specific rotational position within the housing 1602, the valve disk 1632 covers the opening to the conduit 59. The valve disk 1632 is rotatable to align the hole 1638 with the conduit 59.

[0210] [B. Cassette] Referring further to FIGS. 37 - 39, the main components of the cassette 1700 are shown. The cassette 1700 includes a housing 1701 having a proximal shell 1750. A cap 1702 is attached to the distal side of the proximal shell 1750. The shell 1750 has one end open, and the cap 1702 covers the open end. The shell 1750 and the cap 1702 may be formed of any suitable material, such as injection - molded plastic. The interior of the cassette 1700 and the housing 1701 is a chamber or void 1704 (FIG. 38B).

[0211] Referring to FIGS. 41A - 41E, the shell 1750 has a generally cylindrical shape. The shell 1750 has a circular proximal end or base 1752 from which an annular side wall 1754 extends upward. A lip 1756 extends circumferentially around the open upper end of the side wall 1754. The lip 1756 projects radially outward. Two finger portions 1761, 1762 and a tab 1763 extend distally (upward) from the top of the side wall 1754. Each finger portion 1761, 1762 has an arcuate cross - sectional profile. The finger portion 1761 defines a relatively large arc. The finger portion 1762 defines a relatively small arc. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0212] The opening 1770 is formed in the shell base 1752. This opening is sized to receive a boss integral with the valve disk 16 32. The shell is formed such that the opening 1770 is centered about an axis offset from the major axis of the shell 1750. A circular lip 1772 surrounds the opening 1770 and extends downwardly from the shell base 1762 . The lip 1772 is radially spaced from an annular area of the shell base 1752 that defines the outer perimeter of the opening 1770 .

[0213] The drip stopper 1774 is mounted within the manifold opening 1770. The drip stopper 1774 is formed from a compressible elastomeric material such as polyisoprene rubber . The drip stopper 1774 has a pair of lips 1775 with a slit or slot 1 790 therebetween. The slot 1790 allows the conduit 59 to pass through the drip stopper 1774 and into the chamber 1704, forming part of the suction fluid communication path . When the cassette 1700 is removed from the receptacle 1699 , the drip stopper 1774 prevents any material from flowing out of the opening 1770 .

[0214] Figures 40A - 40E illustrate details of the cassette cap 1702. The cap 17 02 is formed from a single piece of polypropylene or similar plastic. The cap 1702 has ends 1705, 1706 and a cylindrical tube-like skirt 1707 . The cap 1702 is configured such that when the housing 1701 is disposed within the receptacle 1699 ​​Dimensioned to allow rotation within the receptacle. S At the proximal end 1705 of the cart 1707, two tabs 1708, 1709 extend radially outward. The tabs 1708, 1709 face each other in the diametrical direction and define different arcs from each other. Tab 1708 defines a relatively large arc and is designed to slip fit into the lock ring slot 1618 of the manifold receptacle . Tab 1709 defines a small arc and is designed to slip fit into the lock ring slot 1620 of the manifold receptacle .

[0215] The cap skirt 1707 is formed at the end 1705 to have a rim 17 10 with an inward taper. Adjacent to the rim 1710, the skirt 1707 has an outward extending step 1712 that extends circumferentially around the inside of the skirt . The cap 1 702 is dimensioned such that the inner diameter of the skirt 1707 above the step 1712 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the shell lip 1 756 by approximately 0.5 mm. When the cassette 1700 is incorporated , the shell 1750 will be inserted into the cap 1702 such that the lip 1756 is compressed and seated on the step 1712 . Compression of the inner surface of the cap skirt 1707 around the lip 1756 will substantially eliminate the suction loss between the cap and the skirt .

[0216] A number of ribs extend inwardly from the inner surface of the skirt 1707 and are disposed on the step 1712 . Two pairs of adjacent ribs 1713 and another pair of adjacent ribs 1714​​ There is provided. The rib 1713 has the shelf finger portion 1761 fitting snugly between the ribs 1713 with a sufficient distance therebetween and spaced apart from each other along an arc. The rib 1714 has the tab 1763 (not the finger portion 1761) fitting snugly between the ribs 1714 with a sufficient distance therebetween and spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, the shelf finger portion 1761, the tab 1763, and the rib pair 1713, 1714, when these components are combined with each other, will facilitate proper alignment of the cassette shell 1750 and the cassette cap 1702.

[0217] The semi-barrel 1716 extends distally from the lower half of the skirt 1707, and the rectangular housing or box 1718 extends distally from the upper half of the skirt 1707. The semi-circular surface 1719 extends to the upper end of the skirt 1707, and the other semi-circular surface 1720 extends to the upper end of the semi-barrel 1716. The surface 1720 is formed to have a hole 1721 located at the center and a fixture 1734 located near the bottom of the surface 1720. The fixture 1734 has a through-hole 1722 in fluid communication with the chamber 1704. (Best shown in FIG. 38B) The flat wall 1724 extends between the surfaces 1719, 1720. The circular hole 1725 (FIG. 38B) penetrates the wall 1724 at a position adjacent to the surface 1720.

[0218] The housing or box 1718 defines a rectangular slit 1726 that defines a hole 1727 closed at one end. The base of the sleeve 126 is defined by the wall 1724. The opening 1729 is formed on the surface of the end cap 1706 and defines a hole. The slit The tube 1726 extends inwardly from this end cap. The inlet fixture 1734 extends from the top of the housing ring 1718. The hole 1728 of the fixture 1738 is in fluid communication with the hole 1727. Specifically, the hole 1728 opens to the inner surface of the sleeve 1726 (on the side opposite the surface of the wall 1724). The semi-circular rim 1730 extends radially outward from the housing 1718. The rim 1730 is coplanar with and continuous with the plane of the cap end 1706.

[0219] The fixtures 1732, 1734 are dimensioned to receive the suction line 50.

[0220] The generally U-shaped semi-flange 1736 extends away from the end of the barrel 1716. The post 1738 extends perpendicularly away from the top of the box 1718 and is somewhat spaced from the rim 1 730 and the fixture 1734.

[0221] Referring to FIGS. 37A and 37B, a removable cap 1740 is provided for the fixtures 17 32, 1734. A removable cover 1741 is provided to cover the opening 1729 of the sleeve 17 26. The cover 1741 has a handle 1742 that can be grasped by the user and a portion that is mounted within the sleeve 1726. The attachment cap 1740 and the cover 1741 are integrally attached to the cassette cap 1702 by a tie string 1744 having several arms 1746 respectively. The arms 1746 are moored to the post 1738.

[0222] ​​​​​​The cassette 1700 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 38B, 38C, and 38D and includes a flapper valve unit 1800. The flapper valve unit 1800 is formed from a single piece of a compressible flexible material, such as polyisoprene or other elastomeric material. The flapper valve unit 1800 has a disk-shaped hub 1802. A central through-hole 1804 is formed in the hub 1802.

[0223] The flapper valve unit 1800 is attached to the surface 1720 of the cassette cap 1702. The post 1806 is inserted through the hole 1804 and into the hole 1721 in the surface 1720. The post 1806 is thermally bonded to the surface 1720, thereby holding the flapper valve unit 1800 to the cassette cap 1702.

[0224] Also, the flapper unit hub 1802 has a number of annular ribs 1810, 1812. One rib 1810 extends outwardly from each of the two sides facing the distal and proximal sides of the hub 1802. One rib 1812 also extends outwardly from each of the two sides of the hub 1802. The rib 1810 is disposed near the hub through-hole 1804. The rib 181 2 surrounds the rib 1810. Each rib 1810, 1812 has an inwardly inclined cross-sectional profile. Thus, each rib 1810, 1812 extends outwardly from the hub surface and is inclined so as to face the major axis passing through the hub hole 1804.

[0225] The flapper valve 1814 is pivotally connected to the hub 1802 and extends from the hub 1802. The flapper valves 1814 cover the attachment port 1722 and the hole 1725, respectively. It is. The hinge 1816, which is an integral part of the flapper valve unit 1800, pivotally connects each flapper valve 1814 to the hub 1802. The hinge 1816 is formed from a part of the material forming the valve and has a cross-sectional thickness thinner than that of the adjacent hub 1802 and flapper valve 1800. It should be understood that the valve 1814 covering the port 1722 is substantially planar with the hub 1802. The valve 1814 covering the hole 1725 is inclined at an angle, here a right angle, with respect to the hub 1802.

[0226] Each flapper valve 1814 is substantially disk-shaped. Each flapper valve 1814 is dimensioned to cover each of the associated port 1722 and hole 1725 and to abut against the area surrounding the port. Generally, each flapper valve 1814 has a diameter approximately 4 mm larger than the inner diameters of the associated port 1722 and hole 1725. Thus, one flapper valve 1814 abuts against the surface 1720 and the other flapper valve 1814 abuts against the bottom of the wall 1724. The flapper valve 1814 acts as a one-way valve that allows fluid flow into the chamber 1704 from the port 1722 and hole 1725 while preventing fluid flow from the chamber 1704 to the port 1722 and hole 1725.

[0227] Referring to FIGS. 39A, 39B, 42A - 42E, and 43, details of the tissue trap 1850 are shown. The tissue trap 1850 is substantially rectangular. Other shapes, for example, round, oval, or square, may be used. The tissue trap 1850 is made of any suitable material, for example, low durometer hardness plastic or thermoplastic elastomer. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​It may be formed from the lastmer. The tissue trap 1850 includes a holder 1852 and a catch tray 1880. The holder 1852 includes four panels, namely side beams 1854, 1856 that are spaced apart from each other in parallel and oriented in a substantially vertical direction, and front beam 1858 and rear beam 1860 that are spaced apart from each other in parallel and oriented in a substantially vertical direction, and is defined thereby. The side beams 1854, 1856 have upper ends 1857 that are curved downward near the center of the beam. The circular flange 1862 extends circumferentially outward from the front beam 1858 and has a flat area or edge 1863 on the lower side portion. The holder 1852 defines a hollow elongated hole 1864 that penetrates the holder. The holder 1852 and the catch tray 1880 can both be formed from injection-molded plastic. In one embodiment, the plastic may be transparent to allow the user to observe the contents of the tissue trap 1850.

[0228] The circular O-ring 1866 is in contact with the proximal surface of the flange 1862. The O-ring 18 66 provides a seal between the flange 1862 and the cap end 1706 when the tissue trap 1850 is inserted into the hole 1727. In one embodiment, the O-ring 18 66 may be omitted. In this embodiment, the seal is configured to be formed directly between the flange 1862 and the cap end 1706.

[0229] The holder 1852 includes a pair of juxtaposed rails 1868. The rails 1868 extend into the elongated hole 1864 in a direction perpendicular inward from the bottom inner surfaces of the side panels 1854, 1856.

[0230] ​​​​​​ The filter or catch tray 1880 is removably connected to the tissue trap 1850. The catch tray 1880 is generally rectangular in shape and is defined by four walls and a bottom mesh. The catch tray 1880 has side walls 1882, 1884 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented in a generally vertical direction parallel to each other, and a front wall 1886 and a rear wall 1888 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented in a generally vertical direction parallel to each other. A bottom mesh or screen 1890 is attached to the bottom of the walls 1882 - 1888. The walls 1882 - 1888 and the screen 1890 form an open - ended shell (not numbered) that defines a cavity 1894. The mesh 1890 includes holes that allow fluid to pass through the mesh 1890. A lip 1892 extends circumferentially outward from the top of the walls 1882 - 1888.

[0231] The filter or catch tray 1880 is insertable into and removable from the holder 1852. The filter or catch tray 1880 is placed within the holder 1852 by pushing the catch tray 1880 into the slot 1864 until the bottom of the walls 1882 - 1888 abuts the rails 1868 and the lip 1892 is positioned at the top of the walls 1882 - 1888. The filter or catch tray 1880 is removed from the holder 1852 by lifting the catch tray 1880 out of the slot 1864.

[0232] An identification device 1896 is attached to the rear panel 1860 of the tissue trap 1850. exists. The identification device 1896 can be any suitable identification device, such as a radio frequency identification ( RFID) tag or device, barcode, magnet, or other device. The presence of the identification device 1896 can be detected by a sensor 189 7 (FIG. 36) attached within the receptacle 1699. In one embodiment, the sensor 1897 can be a Hall effect sensor. Using the sensor 1897, the insertion of the tissue trap 1850 into the cassette 170 is detected, and a light source 1898 (FIG. 36) is turned on to illuminate the interior of the tissue trap 1850.

[0233] Alternative embodiments or implementations of the tissue trap 1900 are shown in FIGS. 44 and 45A - 45 E. The tissue trap 1900 is a single integral piece. The tissue trap 190 0 is generally rectangular in shape. Other shapes, such as round, oval, or square, may be used. The tissue trap 1900 can be formed from any suitable material, such as a low - durometer hardness plastic or a thermoplastic elastomer. The tissue trap 1900 is defined by four panels, namely, side panels 1902, 1904 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented generally perpendicular to each other, and front panel 1906 and rear panel 1908 that are spaced apart from each other and oriented generally perpendicular to each other. A circular flange 1910 extends circumferentially outward from the front panel 1906 and has a flat area or edge 1912 on its lower side. In an embodiment of the tissue trap 1900, the use of an O - ring is omitted. A screen 1914 is attached to the bottom of the panels 1902 - 1908 and forms the bottom of the tissue trap 1900. The screen 1914 contains holes. ​ This allows fluid to pass through screen 1914. Panels 1902 - 1 908 and screen 1914 define cavity 1916. Identification device 189 6 is attached to the rear panel 1908 of tissue trap 1900.

[0234] In these aspects of the invention, flange 1910 is adapted to function as a cap covering opening 172 7 within the manifold. In these aspects of the invention, when it is not necessary to collect a sample, the cap, i.e., flange 1910 (essentially without screen 1914 attached ) will seat within the outlet opening. Thus, fluid will flow from the outlet opening through space 1727 without filtering or collecting entrained tissue. At a surgical time when it is beneficial to collect a sample, tissue trap 190 0 will be inserted into the cavity. Tissue entrained in the waste stream will be captured by screen 19 14.

[0235] [C. Operation of the Fourth Embodiment] Referring to FIGS. 1A - 1C, 35 - 38, and 43, movable unit 30 (FIG 1A) is ready for use when the user inserts cassette 1700 into complementary receptacle 1699 associated with cannister 36. The user grasps cap 1702 and inserts cassette 1700 into receptacle 1699. This causes shell base 1752 to open door 1634 and slide into chamber 1610. The shell base is directed towards valve disk 1632. For movable unit 30 to function, valve disk boss 1636 must seat within shell opening 1770. Lock ​ The ring slots 1618, 1620 and the manifold tabs 1708, 1709 cooperate to ensure this alignment of the cassette 1700 with the valve disk 1632. Specifically when these components are arranged, the positioning of the manifold tab 170 8 within the slot 1618 causes the shell opening 1770 to be aligned with the valve disk boss 1636 such that the cassette 1700 is rotatably positioned. After the cassette is so positioned continuing to insert the cassette 1700 into the receptacle 1699 causes the shell base 1752 to be mounted around the valve disk boss 1636.

[0236] Next, the cassette 1700 is rotated, thereby rotating the valve disk boss 1636 and the valve disk 1632 in the same manner. This rotation aligns the valve port 1638 with the distal end opening to the conduit 5 9, thereby enabling fluid communication between the chamber 1704 and the conduit 59.

[0237] When the cassette is seated within the receptacle 1699, initially the distal end of the cassette shell seats on the valve boss 1636. More particularly, at this time the boss 1636 extends within the shell opening 1770. This causes the drip stopper 1774 to form a liquid-tight barrier between the boss 1636 and the surrounding area of the shell base 1750 (defining the opening 1770).

[0238] Two suction lines can be attached to the cassette 1700. If suction needs to be introduced but there is no need to collect tissue from the fluid flow, the suction line through which this flow passes It is attached to the fixture 1732. This is, for example, a suction fixture to which a suction tube used by an anesthesiologist is attached. When it is desired to collect a part of the tissue, the suction line to be used is attached to the fixture 1732. If the suction line is not attached to one of the fixtures 17 32 or 1734, it should be understood that the cap remains placed covering the fixture. Therefore, this cap will prevent unnecessary loss of suction through the fixture.

[0239] By operating the suction pump 58, the movable unit 30 is operated. This suction is sufficient to deflect each of the flap valves 1814 to their open states. If the suction line were attached to the fixture 1732, the fluid flow would be drawn into the cassette chamber 1704 through this suction line. From the chamber 1704, this fluid flow will be guided through the conduit 59 into the associated canister.

[0240] Also, by suction by the pump 58, the fluid flow can be drawn through the suction line attached to the fixture 1734. The flange 1862 of the trap 1850 functions as a removably mounted cap on the housing opening 1729. When the flange 186 2 is in place, the O-ring 1866 will prevent loss of suction at the outer interface between the front end of the cassette and the trap flange 18 62. If there is no interest in collecting the material mixed in this flow, the filter 1880 is not placed in the trap holder 1852. The fluid flow will not be filtered through the cassette and will be led out covering the conduit 59.

[0241] Alternatively, when the cassette is operated in this bypass mode, trap 1850 may not be attached to the cassette. In this case, cover 1741 is attached to cassette opening 1729. Cover 1741 may include a layer of elastomeric material. This elastomeric layer functions as a seal to prevent loss of suction at the interface between the cassette and the cover. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850.

[0242] The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850. The user can collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using cassette 1700. If cover 1741 is in place, grasp handle 1742 and pull cover 1741 manually to remove the cover. Tissue trap 1850 with catch tray 1880 is inserted into sleeve 1726. The user grasps flange 1862 and places proximal panel 1860 through opening 1729 into sleeve 1726 and hole 1727. Tissue trap 1850 slides within sleeve 1726 until O-ring 1866 abuts cap end 1706. O-ring 1866 provides a suction seal between flange 1862 and cap end 1706. This mode of operation is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through tissue trap 1850.

[0243] Alternatively, if the cover is not in place, a filterless trap can be easily pulled out of the cassette. Seat filter 1880 within trap holder 1852. Then the trap can be reseated within sleeve 1726. Alternatively, if the cover is not in place, a filterless trap can be easily pulled out of the cassette. Seat filter 1880 within trap holder 1852. Then the trap can be reseated within sleeve 1726. Alternatively, if the cover is not in place, a filterless trap can be easily pulled out of the cassette. Seat filter 1880 within trap holder 1852. Then the trap can be reseated within sleeve 1726.

[0244] This process of inserting a trap with a filter into the cassette interrupts the drawing in of suction at the head of the suction application device. It should be understood that this interruption of suction functions to substantially eliminate the possibility that tissue intended to be collected by the operator will inadvertently be drawn into the waste collection cannister through the cassette.

[0245] When the tissue trap 1850 is seated within the sleeve 1726, the sensor 1897 detects the presence of the tissue trap 1850 and recognizes the identification device 1896. The sensor 1897 is in communication with the controller 192 (FIG. 1B). The controller 192 can activate the light source 1898 to illuminate the interior of the tissue trap 1850.

[0246] In the tissue sample collection mode, the waste stream is drawn into the application device 52 along the suction fluid communication path 184 from the surgical site and is directed through the suction line 50B into the fixture 1734. This waste stream contains the tissue sample 398 that has been mixed into the suction application device 52 as a result of the suction drawn through the application device. From the fixture 1734, the waste stream is directed through the port 1728, the cavity 1894, the bottom mesh 1890, the holes 1725, the flapper valve 1814, and the chamber 1704 into the conduit 59. From the conduit 59, the

[0247] waste stream will be directed into the cannister 36. The tissue sample 398 is captured within the tissue trap 1850 by the bottom mesh 1890 of the catch tray 1880. This mode of operation is called the tissue collection mode Note that it is not necessary to block or reconnect the suction line 50B to collect the sample. Take note.

[0248] The plastic forming the cap 1702 and the tissue trap 1850 is at least partially transparent, allowing the user to observe the tissue trap 3 98 within the cavity 1894. The tissue sample 398 is illuminated by the light source 1898 within the tissue trap 1850.

[0249] The tissue trap 1850 can be removed from the sleeve 1726 by the user manually pulling the flange 1862 in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis of the cassette 170 0. After the tissue trap 1850 is removed from the sleeve 1726, the catch tray 1880 containing the tissue sample 398 is removed from the holder 1852. The user grasps the lip 1892 of the catch tray 1880 at the lower edge 1857 of the holder 1852 and lifts this lip 1892 to separate the catch tray 1880 from the holder 1852.

[0250] Referring additionally to FIG. 14, after removing the tissue catch tray 1880, the user places the catch tray 1880 into the sample container 380 (FIG. 14). In the sample container 380 the catch tray 1880 is immersed in the preservation solution 389, whereby the tissue sample 398 is covered by the preservation solution 389. The user places the cap 390 on top of the sample container 380. The cap retainer 392 has threaded portions 391, 3 It is arranged in a straight line with 87. When the cap 390 is rotated with respect to the sample container 380 , the tab 394 breaks, separating the cap 390 from the cap retainer 392. Therefore , the user can remove the cap retainer 392 from the sample container 380 by pulling the arm 395. The sample container 380 is sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis . Then, in order to prevent loss of suction, the door 1741 will be repositioned at the opening 1 729 of the sleeve 1726.

[0251] It should be understood that this process of removing the tissue trap 1850 again interrupts the suction draw in the head of the suction applying device. This allows the operator to have the opportunity to easily examine the captured tissue to ensure that the entire sample that the operator wishes to collect is actually collected. If the operator determines that further collection of this sample is necessary, the operator can re-seat the current filter in the cassette or attach a new filter to the cassette.

[0252] If at a later point during the procedure the operator decides that it would be beneficial to collect other tissue samples , to collect other tissue samples, another catch tray 1880 can be inserted into the holder 1852 and the tissue trap 1850 can be re-inserted into the sleeve 1726 and the hole 1727 . By using a number of screens 1880, a number of tissue samples can be collected. A number of tissue samples can be collected without blocking or reconnecting the suction line 50B during the operation.

[0253] ​​​​Once the medical / surgical procedure is complete and the use of the movable unit 30 is no longer necessary then the suction lines 50A, 50B may each be removed from the fittings 1732, 1734 respectively. Next, the caps 1740 are each repositioned on the fittings 1732, 1734 and the door 1741 is repositioned at the opening 1729. Next, the cassette 1700 is removed from the receptacle 1699. The cassette 1700 is rotated so that the tabs 1708, 1709 are aligned with the slots 1618, 1620 respectively. As a result of rotating the cassette 1700, the valve disk 1632 rotates in a similar manner. Rotation of the valve disk 1632 causes the disk to reorient and again cover the open end of the receiver adapter conduit 59

[0254] Once the cassette 1700 is properly positioned, the cassette 1700 is manually withdrawn from the receptacle 1699, thereby closing the door 1634 As the drip stopper 1774 passes through the distal end of the valve disk boss 1632, the opposed areas (defining the slots 1790) of the drip stopper come together and close the opening 177 0 again. Closing of the opening 1770 substantially eliminates leakage of the waste material remaining in the cassette The cassette 1700 and the holder 1852 are to be discarded as medical waste

[0255] After use, the movable unit 30 is connected to a dock (not shown and not part of the present invention ) and the waste material in the canister 36 will flow through the dock to a treatment facility

[0256] ​​​​​​​​​Similarly, in aspects of the present invention, the cassette 1700 and the tissue trap 1850 are formed such that it is also understood that the plastic is at least partially transparent. This will provide medical personnel with a quick means of verifying that a tissue sample has been collected. Additionally, this will provide medical personnel with a quick means of verifying that the cassette has not been previously used and does not contain collected waste.

[0257] The cassette 1700 is angled or tilted somewhat upward when seated within the receptacle 1699, such that the tissue trap 1850 is also angled somewhat upward. Liquid waste adhering to the tissue trap 1850 can be prevented from leaking into the surgical environment by flowing into the sleeve 1726 when the tissue trap 1850 is removed.

[0258] Due to the angled orientation of the cassette 1700, during operation of the movable unit 30, the proximal shell base opening 1770 is positioned below the inlet ports 1722, 1728, i.e., in the gravitational orientation. This can eliminate the possibility of waste within the cassette flowing upstream towards the ports 1722, 1728 or the tissue trap 1850.

[0259] Also, the flapper valve unit 1800 will prevent waste from leaking from the cassette 1700 into the suction lines 50A, 50B. The individual flapper valves 1814 normally cover the ports 1722 and the holes 1725, and when the suction pump 58 is activated and the mounting cap 1740 is removed, the flapper valves are drawn by the suction created by the A pressure head sufficient to deflect 1814 to the open position will occur. As a result, waste flow will be directed into cassette chamber 1704. When the pump operation stops the flapper valve 1814 will return to the closed position against the adjacent surface or wall due to the sufficient elastic force of hinge 1816.

[0260] Similar to that described using tissue trap 1850, tissue samples can be collected using tissue trap 1900. Tissue trap 1900 is a single unitary piece and has no separate screen, so that after the tissue sample is collected by tissue trap 1900 and tissue trap 1900 is removed from sleeve 1726, the entire tissue trap 1900 will be placed inside storage container 380. To collect additional tissue samples other unused tissue traps 1900 may be inserted into sleeve 1726.

[0261] [VI. Fifth Embodiment] [A. Cassette] Referring to FIGS. 46-48, another embodiment of cassette 2000 is shown. Cassette 2000 is adapted to be used in connection with receptacle 1699 of FIGS. 35 and 36. Cassette 2000 shares some common components and features with cassette 1700. The shell 1750 and tissue traps 185 0, 1900 of cassette 2000 are the same as those described above in cassette 1700. The internal features of cap 200 2 are the same as those described above for cap 1702. However, housing ring or box 2018 is removable from cap 2002. Cassette The housing or box 2018 of the cassette 2000 is formed separately from the remainder of the cap 2002 The housing or box 1718 of the cap 1702 is a single integral piece.

[0262] Cassette 2000 includes a housing 2001. The housing 2001 has a proximal shell 1750 with a cap 2002 attached to the distal side, and a removable sample housing or box 2018. The cap 2002 and the sample housing 2018 may be formed from any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic .. .. ..

[0263] Cap 2002 has the same ends 1705, 1706 and skirt as cap 1702 .. Cap 2002 is dimensioned to allow housing 1701 to be placed within receptacle 1699 and to rotate within receptacle 1699. At the proximal end 1705 of skirt 1707, two tabs 1708, 1709 project radially outward (only tab 1708 is shown in FIG. 47 ..). Tab 1708 is designed to slidably fit within the lock ring slot 1618 of the manifold receptacle. Tab 1709 is designed to slidably fit within the lock ring slot 1620 of the manifold receptacle .. .. .. ..

[0264] Half barrel 1716 extends distally from the lower half of skirt 1707. Semi-circular surface 1719 extends over the proximal end 1707 of skirt 1707, and the other semi-circular surface 1720 extends over the proximal end of barrel 1716. Flat wall 1724 is on surface 1719 .. .. extends between the surface 1720. The flat wall 1724 is between the surface 1719 and the surface 1720 and extends between them. A pair of L-shaped rails 2004 facing opposite to each other and parallelly spaced apart extend vertically upward from the wall 1724. The elongated slots 2006 are arranged along the respective lengths of the rails 2004. The circular holes 1725 penetrate the wall 1724 at a position between the centers of the rails 2004 and spaced apart from the surface 1 720.

[0265] The substantially U-shaped half flange 1736 extends in the distal direction from the surface 1720. The fixture 1732 integrated with the cassette 1700 also is integrated with the cassette 2000 here. Similar to the cassette 170, this fixture 1732 functions as a fixture that enables drawing a fluid flow that does not need to collect tissue into the cassette 2000 and is. and is. there is.

[0266] Referring additionally to FIGS. 49A - 49E, the removable housing or box 2 018 is substantially rectangular and has five side surfaces or walls, namely, an upper wall 2040 and a bottom wall 2042 that are parallel to each other and spaced apart and substantially horizontally oriented, side walls 2044, 2046 that are parallel to each other and spaced apart and substantially vertically oriented, and a rear wall 2048 that is substantially vertically oriented (orthogonal to the walls 2044, 20 46). The housing 2018 has ends 2036, 2038. The semi-circular flange 2050 extends radially outward from the ends 2036 of the walls 2040 - 2046 . The elongated raised splines 2054 are at the bottoms of the side walls 2044, 20 46 and away from them along the respective lengths of the side walls 2044, 2046 . extends at a right angle. The sample housing 2018 is attached to the cap 2002 When this occurs, the spline 2054 slides within the elongated hole 2006 of the rail 2004 and will be fitted to the elongated hole 200 6.

[0267] The elongated rectangular internal sleeve 2026 having the hole 2027 is defined within the housing 2018 by the walls 2040 - 2046. The sleeve 2026 has an opening 2030 defined at the location where it terminates at the flange 2050. The hole 2052 penetrates the bottom wall 2042.

[0268] The fixture 1734 extends at a right angle away from the upper wall 2040. The fixture 1734 is in the form of a hollow tube. The fixture 1734 is sized to receive the suction line 50B (Figure 36). A port 1728 is defined through the fixture 1734. This port 1728 is in fluid communication with the hole 2027.

[0269] The post 1738 extends at a right angle away from the upper wall 2040 at a position somewhat spaced from the flange 2050 and the fixture 1734. A removable cap 1740 is provided for the fixtures 1732, 1734. A removable cover 1741 is provided to cover the opening 2030 of the sleeve 2026. The cover 1741 has a handle 1742 that can be grasped by the user and a portion that fits within the sleeve 1726. Each of the mounting cap 1740 and the cover 1741 is integrally attached to the sample housing 2018 by a tie string 1744 having several arms 1746. The arms 1746 are moored to the post 1738. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0270] The sample housing 2018 is attachable to the cap 2002. The user grasps the housing 2018 and aligns the spline 2054 with the slot 2006 of the rail 2004 in an aligned orientation. The housing 2018 is moved proximally toward the surface 1719 while sliding the spline 2054 along the rail 2004 until the rear wall 2048 contacts the surface 1719. At this position, the axis of the hole 2052 in the housing 2018 is aligned with the axis of the hole 1725 in the cap 2002. A fluid communication path is formed between the ports 1728, holes 2027, 2052, 1725, and the chamber 1704.

[0271] The sample housing 2018 can be used with either the tissue trap of FIGS. 42A-42E or the tissue trap 1900 of FIGS. 45A-45E. After the cover 1741 is removed from the opening 2030, either the tissue trap 1850 or 1900 is inserted into the hole 2027, thereby preparing the cassette 200 for use with the receptacle 1699.

[0272] [B. Operation of the Fifth Embodiment] Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, 36, 38B, and 46-49, the movable unit 30 (FIG. 1A) is operable using the cassette 2000 in a manner similar to the cassette 1700. The movable unit 30 is ready for use when the user inserts the cassette 2000, to which the housing 2018 is attached, into the complementary receptacle 1699 associated with the cannister 36. The user grasps the cap 2002 ​​​​​​​​​​See, the cassette 2000 is inserted into the receptacle 1699, whereby the shell base 1 752 opens the door 1634 and slides into the chamber 1610. Then, the shell base 1 752 seats on the valve disk 1732, and the cap 2002 is held in the receptacle 1699 in the same manner as described above.

[0273] Operation of the suction pump 58 causes a fluid flow to be drawn through the fixtures 1732, 1734. The fluid flow drawn through the fixture 1734 flows through the box sleeve 2026 and the box hole 2052. From the box hole 2052, the fluid flow flows through the cassette hole 1725. In fact, the cassette hole 1725 has a diameter larger than that of the box hole 2052 and extends radially beyond the entire circumference of the box hole 2052. This relative sizing and positioning of these holes can substantially eliminate fluid leakage between the box 20 18 and the adjacent surface of the cassette.

[0274] The user can choose to collect a tissue sample such as a polyp using the cassette 2000. The user grasps the handle 1742 and manually pulls the cover 1741 to remove the cover 1741 from the sleeve 2026. A tissue trap 1850 (Figs. 42A - 42E) with a catch tray 1880 is inserted into the sleeve 2026. The user can grasp the flange 1862 and place the proximal end 1 860 through the opening 2030 into the sleeve 2026 and the hole 2027. The tissue trap 1850 can be placed in the sleeve 2026 and the hole 2027 until the O - ring 1866 abuts against the flange 2050. It slides within the sleeve 2026. The O-ring 1866 will provide a suction seal between the flange 1862 and the flange 205 0. This operating mode is called the tissue sample collection mode because the suction fluid communication path passes through the woven trap 1850.

[0275] When the system is in the tissue sample collection mode, the waste stream is drawn into the delivery device 52 along the suction fluid communication path 184 from the surgical site, through the suction line 50B, and guided into the fixture 1734. This waste stream can include the tissue sample 398 mixed into the delivery device as a result of the suction drawn through the suction delivery device 52. From the fixture 1734, the waste stream passes through the port 1728, the cavity 1894, the bottom mesh 1890, the hole 2052, the hole 1725, the flapper valve 1814, and the chamber 1704 and is guided into the conduit 59. From the conduit 59, the waste stream will flow into the canister 36.

[0276] The tissue sample 398 is captured by the bottom mesh 1890 of the catch tray 1850 within the tissue trap 1850. This operating mode is called the tissue collection mode because the suction fluid communication path 184 passes through the woven trap 1850. Note that it is not necessary to block or reconnect the suction line 50B to collect the sample in the tissue collection mode.

[0277] The tissue trap 1850 is removed from the sleeve 2026 by the user manually pulling the flange 1862 in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis of the cassette 2000. After the tissue trap 1850 is removed from the sleeve 2026, it contains the tissue sample 398 ​​​​​​​​​​Catch tray 1880 is removed from the holder 1852. The user grasps the lip 1892 of the catch tray 1880 at the lower edge 1857 of the holder -1852 and can separate the catch tray 1880 from the holder 1 by lifting this lip 1892. 852. After removing the tissue catch tray 1880, as described above, the user can place the catch

[0278] tray 1880 into the sample container. If at a later point in the procedure the practitioner determines that it would be beneficial to

[0279] collect additional tissue samples, another catch tray 1880 can be inserted into the holder 1852 and the tissue trap 1850 can be reinserted into the sleeve 2026 and the hole 2027 to collect additional tissue samples. Multiple screens 1880 can be used to collect multiple tissue samples. Multiple tissue samples can be collected without interrupting or reconnecting the suction line 50B during the procedure. Using the tissue trap 1900 having the cassette 1700 as described above, using the tissue

[0280] trap 1900 having the cassette 2000, tissue samples can be collected in the same manner. In some examples where the movable unit 30 is used during several surgical procedures in a day, it should be noted that it is advantageous to reuse a portion of the cassette 2000

[0281] during multiple procedures to reduce the cost and amount of generated medical waste. Specifically, the cap 2002 and the shell 1750 of the cassette 2000 are reused throughout the day, and the tissue housing 2 ​ 018 is to be replaced for each new patient for which the movable unit 30 is used.

[0282] The sample housing 2018 is removable from the cap 2002. The suction lines 50A, 50B are respectively blocked from the fixtures 1732, 1734. The caps 17 40 are respectively repositioned on the fixtures 1732, 1734, and the door 1741 is repositioned at the opening 20 30. The user grasps the housing 2018 and pulls on it, thereby moving the housing 2018 in the distal direction away from the surface 1719. The spline 2054 slides along the rail 2004 until it separates from the rail 2004. The sample housing 2018 is to be discarded as medical waste. Then, as described above, another sample housing 2018 is attached to the cap 2002.

[0283] At the end of the day when the medical / surgical procedure is complete and the movable unit 30 is no longer needed, the suction lines 50A, 50B are respectively blocked from the fixtures 1732, 1734. The caps 1740 are respectively repositioned on the fixtures 12732, 1734, and the door 17 41 is repositioned at the opening 2030. Then, the cassette 2000 is removed from the receptacle 1699 in the same manner as described above. The cassette 2000 and the holder 1852 are to be discarded as medical waste.

[0284] After use, the movable unit 30 is connected to a dock (not shown and not part of the present invention). The waste material in the canister 36 passes through the dock for treatment It is flowed into the facility.

[0285] Similarly, in various aspects of the present invention, it should be understood that the plastic forming the cassette 2000 including the housing 2018 and the tissue filter 1850 is at least partially transparent. This will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that a tissue sample has been collected. In addition, this will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain collected waste. It should be understood that the plastic forming the cassette 2000 including the housing 2018 and the tissue filter 1850 is at least partially transparent. This will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that a tissue sample has been collected. In addition, this will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain collected waste. It should be understood that the plastic forming the cassette 2000 including the housing 2018 and the tissue filter 1850 is at least partially transparent. This will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that a tissue sample has been collected. In addition, this will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain collected waste. Similarly, in various aspects of the present invention, it should be understood that the plastic forming the cassette 2000 including the housing 2018 and the tissue filter 1850 is at least partially transparent. This will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that a tissue sample has been collected. In addition, this will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain collected waste. Similarly, in various aspects of the present invention, it should be understood that the plastic forming the cassette 2000 including the housing 2018 and the tissue filter 1850 is at least partially transparent. This will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that a tissue sample has been collected. In addition, this will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain collected waste. Similarly, in various aspects of the present invention, it should be understood that the plastic forming the cassette 2000 including the housing 2018 and the tissue filter 1850 is at least partially transparent. This will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that a tissue sample has been collected. In addition, this will provide a quick means for medical personnel to confirm that the cassette has not been used previously and does not contain collected waste.

[0286] Similarly, when the cassette 1700 is used to capture tissue, the suction flow is interrupted during the process of installing the trap and the process of removing the trap. This can reduce the possibility that the tissue of interest flows into the canister before collection. In addition, this will provide the operator with an opportunity to ensure that all of the tissue of interest is collected before a non-filtered fluid flow can be directed to the canister after collection. Similarly, when the cassette 1700 is used to capture tissue, the suction flow is interrupted during the process of installing the trap and the process of removing the trap. This can reduce the possibility that the tissue of interest flows into the canister before collection. In addition, this will provide the operator with an opportunity to ensure that all of the tissue of interest is collected before a non-filtered fluid flow can be directed to the canister after collection. Similarly, when the cassette 1700 is used to capture tissue, the suction flow is interrupted during the process of installing the trap and the process of removing the trap. This can reduce the possibility that the tissue of interest flows into the canister before collection. In addition, this will provide the operator with an opportunity to ensure that all of the tissue of interest is collected before a non-filtered fluid flow can be directed to the canister after collection. Similarly, when the cassette 1700 is used to capture tissue, the suction flow is interrupted during the process of installing the trap and the process of removing the trap. This can reduce the possibility that the tissue of interest flows into the canister before collection. In addition, this will provide the operator with an opportunity to ensure that all of the tissue of interest is collected before a non-filtered fluid flow can be directed to the canister after collection. Similarly, when the cassette 1700 is used to capture tissue, the suction flow is interrupted during the process of installing the trap and the process of removing the trap. This can reduce the possibility that the tissue of interest flows into the canister before collection. In addition, this will provide the operator with an opportunity to ensure that all of the tissue of interest is collected before a non-filtered fluid flow can be directed to the canister after collection. Similarly, when the cassette 1700 is used to capture tissue, the suction flow is interrupted during the process of installing the trap and the process of removing the trap. This can reduce the possibility that the tissue of interest flows into the canister before collection. In addition, this will provide the operator with an opportunity to ensure that all of the tissue of interest is collected before a non-filtered fluid flow can be directed to the canister after collection.

[0287] [VII. Perfusion Cassette] The perfusion assembly 2100 used with the movable unit 30 is shown in FIGS. 50-54. The perfusion assembly 2100 provides a source of perfusion fluid to the surgical site. The perfusion assembly 2100 includes a perfusion cassette 2102 and a water bottle 2200. The perfusion assembly 2100 used with the movable unit 30 is shown in FIGS. 50-54. The perfusion assembly 2100 provides a source of perfusion fluid to the surgical site. The perfusion assembly 2100 includes a perfusion cassette 2102 and a water bottle 2200. The perfusion assembly 2100 used with the movable unit 30 is shown in FIGS. 50-54. The perfusion assembly 2100 provides a source of perfusion fluid to the surgical site. The perfusion assembly 2100 includes a perfusion cassette 2102 and a water bottle 2200.

[0288] The water bottle 2200 is substantially rectangular. Other shapes, such as round or oval, may be used. The water bottle 2200 has six external panels, i.e., substantially perpendicular to each other and spaced apart parallel to each other. The water bottle 2200 is substantially rectangular. Other shapes, such as round or oval, may be used. The water bottle 2200 has six external panels, i.e., substantially perpendicular to each other and spaced apart parallel to each other. Vertically oriented panels 2202, 2204, and panels 2206, 2208 that are spaced apart from each other in parallel and oriented in a substantially vertical direction, and a bottom panel 2210 oriented in a substantially horizontal direction, define it. The upper panel 2211 is inclined inwardly from the panels 2202, 2204, 2206, 2208. The side panels 2202, 2204, 2206, 2208 are perpendicular to the bottom panel 2210. The water bottle 2200 has an upper end 2214 and a bottom end 2212. The panels 2202, 2204, 2206, 2208, 2210, 2211 define a reservoir 2220 within the water bottle 2100. The water bottle 2100 may be formed from any suitable material, such as blow-molded plastic. In one embodiment, the water bottle 2100 is formed from a transparent material so that the contents or level of the reservoir 2120 can be observed by the user. The water bottle 2100 has a neck 2224 that extends away from the upper wall 2211. The annular flange 2226 extends radially outward from the neck 2224 and surrounds the neck 2224. The threaded portion 2228 is defined on the outer surface of the neck 2224 toward the end 2214. The opening 2230 allows access to the reservoir 2220. The circular cap 2260 has a threaded portion 2262 defined on the annular inner surface of the cap and a recessed notch 2264 defined on the annular outer surface of the cap. The cap 2260 has an upper wall 2266. The ratchet fixture 2268 extends away from the outer surface of the upper wall 2266.

[0289]

[0290]

[0291] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​extends perpendicular to the square. The spiked fixture 2268 has a hollow tube inside. Also, the U-shaped protrusion 2270 extends perpendicular away from the outer surface of the upper wall 2266. The hole 2272 is defined in the protrusion 2270. The holes 2274, 2276 penetrate the upper wall 2266 through.

[0292] The duckbill valve 2280 is seated within the hole 2276 and extends away from the inner surface of the wall 2266 towards the reservoir 2220. The duckbill valve 2280 is formed from a compressible elastomeric material such as polyisoprene rubber. The duckbill valve 2280 has a pair of lips with a slit 2282 formed therebetween. By the duckbill valve 2280, during operation of the peristaltic pump 70, air can be drawn into the reservoir 2220. Air can flow from the ambient environment through the slit 2282 into the reservoir -2220. The hydraulic pressure from the contents of the reservoir 2220 presses the lips of the duckbill valve 2280 and holds the slit 2282 closed, thereby preventing any liquid leakage. Thus, the duckbill valve 2280 is a one-way valve that allows air to flow into the water bottle 2200 while preventing liquid from leaking out of the water bottle 2200. The infusion cassette 2102 is removably connected to the water bottle 2200. The infusion cassette 2102 includes a generally Y-shaped housing 2104 and a hose or tube 2300. The housing 2104 has ends 2106, 2108, 2110. The holes 211 2, 2114, 2116 pass through the housing 2104 to the interior air of the housing 2104 The infusion cassette 2102 is removably connected to the water bottle 2200. The infusion cassette 2102 includes a generally Y-shaped housing 2104 and a hose or tube 2300. The housing 2104 has ends 2106, 2108, 2110. The holes 211

[0293] The infusion cassette 2102 is removably connected to the water bottle 2200. The infusion cassette 2102 includes a generally Y-shaped housing 2104 and a hose or tube 2300. The housing 2104 has ends 2106, 2108, 2110. The holes 211 2, 2114, 2116 pass through the housing 2104 to the interior air of the housing 2104 It extends into the hole 2120. The inwardly curved wall 2118 is between the ends 2108, 2110 extends.

[0294] The housing 2104 is formed from two mutually separated halves or regions 2122, 2150 that are snap-fitted to each other along the seam 2124. Region 2122 has a flat wall 2123 and a curved outer peripheral wall 2124 with an edge 2126. The upper region of the wall 2123 terminates along the edge 2128. The side wall 2124 is substantially perpendicular to the wall 2123. Region 2150 has a flat wall 2152 and a pair of curved partial outer peripheral walls 2154, 2155 each having an edge 2156. Wall 2154 extends from end 2106 to end 2112. Wall 2155 extends from end 2106 to end 2114. The upper region of the wall 2152 terminates along the edge 2158. The curved inverted Y-shaped wall 2118 is spaced from the side walls 2154, 2155 and is disposed within the cavity 2120. The curved wall 2118 is substantially perpendicular to the wall 2152. Several U-shaped tubes that hold the flange 2119 are attached to the wall 2152 and extend at a right angle from the wall 2152 into the cavity 2120. extends. extends. extends. extends. extends. extends. extends. extends. extends. extends. extends.

[0295] Side wall 2154 and wall 2118 define a tube passage 2160. Side wall 2155 and wall 2118 define a tube passage 2162. The branch portion 2164 extends inwardly at a right angle from the edge 2158 of the wall 2152. The boss and the elongated hole 2166 extend inwardly at a right angle from the edge 2128 of the wall 2123. The branch portion 2164 is press-fitted into and dimensioned to be received within the elongated hole 2166. extends. extends. extends. extends.

[0296] The tube 2300 has ends 2302, 2303, a curved roller contact area 2306, and bending portions 2308, 2310, 2312. The tube 2300 may be formed from any suitable material, such as an elastomer or silicone rubber.

[0297] The infusion cassette 2102 is configured to be incorporated as follows. First, the tube 2300 is disposed within the housing area 2150 such that the bending portion 2310 is located within the passage 2160 and the bending portion 2308 is located within the passage 2162. The tube 2300 is pushed into the housing area 2150 such that the tube 2300 slides within the tube holding flange 2119 and is held by the flange 2119. The end 2302 is positioned flush with the edge 2128. The curved roller contact area 2306 contacts adjacent to the curved wall 2118. The end 2304 extends through the opening 2116 and beyond the side wall 2155. Next, the cap 2260 is disposed with the housing area 2150 such that the branch portion 2164 is press - fit into the cap hole 2272 and the tube end 2302 slides over the serrated fixture 2268. The housing areas 2122, 2150 are fitted together to form the housing 2104. The housing areas 2122, 2150 will be held together by press - fitting, snap - fitting, or welding the two housing areas to each other. Other holding means, such as an adhesive, may be used. When the housing areas 2122, 2150 are fitted together, the branch portion 2164 is press - fit into the

[0298] The perfusion assembly 2100 is obtained by screwing the cap 2260 and the perfusion cassette 2102 onto the water bottle 22 00. The water bottle 2200 is filled with the perfusion fluid . By rotating the cap 2260, the cap thread portion 2262 engages with the bottle thread portion 2228 . A perfusion fluid communication path is formed to flow the perfusion fluid from the reservoir 2220 through the hole 2274, the fixture 2268, and the tube 2300 to the tube end 2304. The tube end 2304 can be connected to a perfusion line, for example, the perfusion line 51 in FIG. 1A .

[0299] Referring particularly to FIGS. 1A and 51, the perfusion assembly 2100 is adapted to be received by a perfusion assembly receiver 2400 that is part of the movable unit 30 . The perfusion assembly receiver 2400 is disposed within the cap 42 of the movable unit 30. The cap 42 has an upper surface 2402. A rectangular slot 2410 extends from the surface 2402 into the cap 42 and has a bottom surface 2414. A rectangular circumferential step 2412 extends into the slot 2410. A counterbore 2420 is located above the slot 2410 and extends from the upper surface 2402 into the slot 2410, defining an annular step 2422 .

[0300] The peristaltic pump 70 includes a rotary electric motor 71 connected to the cap 42. The motor 71 is connected to an eccentric roller 74 by a shaft 72. The electric motor 71 causes the roller 74 to rotate. The peristaltic pump roller 74 presses against a tube region 2306 curved with respect to the wall 2118 so as to extrude the perfusion fluid through the tube 2300 ​

[0301] The irrigation assembly 2100 is configured such that the housing 2140 is manually inserted into the step 24 by a user. 12 and cap 2260 is positioned on step 2422. The bristle 2100 is inserted into the slot 2410 and the counterbore 2420, In this position, the peristaltic pump rollers 74 are engaged with the curved tube. Tube end 23 engages section 2306 and presses section 2306 against wall 2118. 04 is connected to an irrigation line 51 which is connected to an application device 52 .

[0302] By operation of the electric motor 71 and the peristaltic pump 70, the irrigation fluid is pumped through the irrigation fluid communication path 182, from the reservoir 2220 of the water bottle 2200, through the hole 2274, the fitting 2268 , and through tube 2300, tube end 2304, irrigation line 51, and It is directed to the delivery device 52 where it is delivered to the surgical site.

[0303] 55 and 56, an irrigation assembly for use with the mobile unit 30. An alternative embodiment of irrigation assembly 2500 is shown in Figures 50-54. The apparatus includes an irrigation cassette 2502 and a water bottle 2200. The irrigation cassette 2502 includes: Instead of being placed parallel to the water bottle 2200, it is placed at a right angle to the water bottle 2200, i.e., 90° 2102. It has the same features as irrigation cassette 2102, except that it is oriented in the same direction as irrigation cassette 2102.

[0304] [VIII. Sixth embodiment] 57 and 58 show an alternative cassette 2600 of the present invention. 00 is a modification of cassette 1700. Cassette 2600 includes a proximal shell 2602 It is provided with. The shell 2602 has the same shape and structure as the shell 1750. . The cap 2610 is disposed to cover the distal end of the shell 2602. The sleeve 26 40 extends forward from the cap 2610. In the sleeve 2640, a cavity 2652 extending inward from the proximal open end of the sleeve is formed. The screen holder 270 2 is shaped to be slidably received within the cavity 2652. Also, the screen holder is shaped to removably support a catch tray 2740 that includes a filter or screen 2741.

[0305] It can be seen that the shell 2602 is formed to have (unnumbered) parallel grooves extending along the outer wall of the shell. These grooves are not relevant to the present invention. The shell 2602 defines a cavity 2604. The fluid will flow through the cavity 2604 before being discharged from the outlet 2606. A filter 2605 removably mounted within the shell cavity 2604 is shown. The means for disposing the filter 2605 within the shell 2602 is not part of the present invention.

[0306] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 57, 59 and 60, the cassette cap 2610 will be described. The cassette cap 2610 is formed as a single integral piece and is shaped to have a cylindrical skirt 2612. The skirt 2612 is dimensioned to extend around the distal open end of the shell 2602. A generally circular end plate 2614 extends inward from the distal end of the skirt 2612. The end plate 2614 is the cap 261 It forms the distal end of 0. The fixture 2616 extends outward from the cap end plate 2614. The fixture 2616 is designed to receive the suction line 50. The hole (not part-numbered) passing through the fixture 2616 communicates with the cavity 2604 within the cassette 2600 defined by the shell 2602 and the cap 2 610. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the fixture 2616 extends forward from a position radially spaced from the central longitudinal axis of the cassette 2600 (i.e., the central longitudinal axis about which the cassette 2600 is rotatable when the cassette 2600 is within the receptacle 1699, the central longitudinal axis) passing through the plate 2614. When the cassette 2600 is within the receptacle 1699, the cassette 2600 is rotatable about this longitudinal axis passing through the plate 2614. It extends forward from a position radially spaced from the central longitudinal axis of the cassette 2600.

[0307] As best shown in FIGS. 57, 59, and 60, the sleeve 2640 is integrally formed with the cap 2 610. The sleeve 2640 extends forward from the cap end plate 2 614. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the outer body of the sleeve 2640 has a rectangular cross-section. However, this design feature is not limiting and it should be understood as such. The elliptical plate 2642 extends around the distal end of the sleeve 2640. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the major axis (long axis) passing through the plate and the central axis passing through the fixture 2616 are diametrically opposite sides centered about the longitudinal axis passing through the cassette 2600. The major axis (long axis) passing through the plate and the central axis passing through the fixture 2616 are diametrically opposite sides centered about the longitudinal axis passing through the cassette 2600.

[0308] The face plate 2642 is formed to have two elliptical webs 2644, 26 48 protruding on the distal side (front). One web 2644 extends forward from around the outer periphery of the face plate 2642. The second web 2468 extends forward in the same manner as the web 2646. The second web 2468 extends forward from around the outer periphery of the face plate 2642, similar to the web 2646. A closed-loop web, located inwardly of web 2464. The compressible seal 2646 is compressed between webs 2644, 2648.

[0309] The sleeve 2640 is formed such that the cavity 2652 extends inwardly from the face plate 2642. The sleeve 2642 is formed such that the cavity 2652 comprises an upper chamber 2654 and a lower chamber 2656. The upper chamber 2654 essentially has a rectangular cross-section. The upper chamber 2654 terminates at the inner surface of the sleeve 2640. The lower chamber 2656 of the sleeve is located immediately below the upper chamber 2654. The lower housing 2656 has a generally rectangular cross-section. The lower chamber 2656 has a length substantially the same as that of the upper chamber 2654, but is smaller in cross-sectional height and width than the upper chamber 2654. Also, the cavity comprises a groove 2658 located below the lower chamber 2656. The groove 2658 extends along the length of the lower chamber 2656. The groove 2658 has a semi-circular cross-section. The widest part of the groove 2658 (the part directly continuous with the lower chamber 2658) is smaller than the width of the lower chamber.

[0310] In many aspects of the present invention, the inner surface extending longitudinally of the sleeve 2640 (defining the top of the upper chamber 2654) and the inner surface extending longitudinally (defining the base of the groove 2758) are parallel to each other. For manufacturing reasons, these surfaces are somewhat offset from the plane perpendicular to the surface of the sleeve face plate 2 642. Further, the sleeve cavity 265

[0311] The cassette cap 2610 is further formed such that the fixture 2664 extends away from the upper surface of the sleeve 2640. The fixture 2664 is shaped to receive the suction line 50. The hole passing through the fixture opens into the upper chamber 2654 of the cavity 2642. Also, the cassette cap 2610 is shaped such that the opening 2666 is formed adjacent to the distal end of the cavity. The opening 2666 will provide a fluid path through the cap end plate 2614. The opening 2666 is circular in shape. The cap 2610 is formed such that the groove 2658 and the adjacent proximal end of the distal chamber extend into the opening 2666. The fixture 2616 and the opening 2666 are located on opposite sides facing each other about the cassette major axis passing through the end plate 2614.

[0312] In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the sleeve 2640 is shown as having a hole 2670 closed at one end. This hole extends forward from the cap end plate 1614. The hole 2670 is provided for manufacturing purposes and is otherwise not relevant to the present invention.

[0313] The cylindrical boss 2678 extends inwardly from the surface facing the proximal side (inside) of the cap end plate 2614. The boss 2678 is generally cylindrical. The base 2676 extends around a portion of the boss 2678 and projects outwardly from the end plate 2614. The base has an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the boss 2676.

[0314] When the cassette 2600 of the present invention is assembled, the valve assembly shown only in FIG. 28 The li 2682 is adapted to seat covering the base 2676 and the boss 2678. The valve assembly 2682 is essentially the same as the valve assembly 1800. The valve of the valve assembly 2682 is positioned such that one of the flapper valves 1814 seats at the proximal opening of the fixture 2616. The second flapper valve seats on the structural feature of the cap 2610 that defines the opening 2666. The valve assembly 2682 has a hub that seats on the base 2676 (no part number is attached). A ring 2684 that is press- fitted into the boss 2678 holds the hub, and more specifically, the entire valve assembly to the

[0315] cap end plate 2614. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the cap 2610 has a tube 2688 coaxial with the fixture 2616. The tube 2688 extends beyond the inner surface of the end plate 2614. A tube 2690 extends proximally from around the opening 2666. The tubes 2688, 2690 both have proximal ends that are inclined (i.e., not orthogonal) to the long axis of the cassette 2600. The flapper valve 1814 seats against these proximal end openings of the tubes 2688, 2690. Due to the elasticity of the material forming the valve assembly 2682, the valve 1814 will be biased to be pressed against the proximal ends of

[0316] The fixture cap 2687 is adapted to be molded with the cassette cap 2610. A flexible tie strap 2686, which is also part of the molded assembly, extends from the distal end of the skirt 2612 to hold the fixture cap 2687 to the cassette cap 2610. ​

[0317] Referring to FIGS. 61A and 61B, a screen holder 2702, which may also be referred to as an organization trap, will be described. The screen holder 2702 is formed as a single-piece unit. The screen holder 2702 is shaped to have a face plate 2704. The face plate 2704 is shaped such that the outer periphery of the face facing the proximal side of the plate seats against a seal 2646. A pull tab 2706 extends at a right angle away from the face (the always-exposed face) facing the distal side of the plate 2704. The screen holder 2702 is shaped such that the tab 2706 extends away from the upper portion of the plate 2704. The screen holder is further shaped such that a recess 2708 extends inwardly from the exposed surface of the face plate 2704. The recess 2708 is provided for the purpose of forming. The tray holder 2712 extends from the face (the always-hidden surface) facing the proximal side of the face plate 2704. The tray holder 2712 is in the form of a generally U-shaped beam, and the opposing ends of the beam are the portions of the beam adjacent to the face plate 2704. The tray holder 2712 is formed such that the curved semi-circular portion of the tray holder has a number of spaced-apart finger portions 2714. Tabs 2716 extend inwardly from two of the finger portions 2714. The tray holder 2712 is further formed such that a small triangular rib 2718 (only one is shown) extends outwardly from the opposing sides of the holder. The tray holder has ribs 2718 facing opposite each other. The screen holder 2702 is shaped such that the tab 2706 extends away from the upper portion of the plate 2704. The screen holder is further shaped such that a recess 2708 extends inwardly from the exposed surface of the face plate 2704. The recess 2708 is provided for the purpose of forming.

[0318] The tray holder 2712 extends from the face (the always-hidden surface) facing the proximal side of the face plate 2704. The tray holder 2712 is in the form of a generally U-shaped beam, and the opposing ends of the beam are the portions of the beam adjacent to the face plate 2704. The tray holder 2712 is formed such that the curved semi-circular portion of the tray holder has a number of spaced-apart finger portions 2714. Tabs 2716 extend inwardly from two of the finger portions 2714. The tray holder 2712 is further formed such that a small triangular rib 2718 (only one is shown) extends outwardly from the opposing sides of the holder. The tray holder 2712 is further formed such that a small triangular rib 2718 (only one is shown) extends outwardly from the opposing sides of the holder. The tray holder 2712 is further formed such that a small triangular rib 2718 (only one is shown) extends outwardly from the opposing sides of the holder. One of the ribs 2718 extends outwardly from the opposing sides of the holder. The tray holder has ribs 2718 facing opposite each other. ​The left and right width of the outermost compartment is formed to be approximately 0.5 mm larger than the cross-sectional width across the upper chamber 2654 within the sleeve 2640. The rims 2720 (two are shown) extend inwardly from the surface facing inward of the tray holder 2712. The rim 2720 is positioned adjacent to the bottom edge of the tray holder 2712.

[0319] The two legs 2724, 2728 extend downwardly from the tray holder 2720. Of the two legs, the distal leg 2724 extends directly downwardly from the tray holder 2720 and, although not shown in Figure 61B, is positioned distally away from the face plate 2704. Of the two legs, the proximal leg 2728 extends downwardly and distally (forward) from the curved proximal end of the tray holder. The skid 2726 extends between the free ends of the legs 2724 , 2728. The legs 2724, 2728 and the skid 2726 are dimensioned to seat within the groove 2658 within the sleeve 2640.

[0320] The catch tray 2740 is designed in the same manner as the catch tray 1880. The screen 2741 for capturing tissue, schematically shown in Figure 57, forms the base of the catch tray. The screen 2741 is essentially the same as the screen 1890. A set of walls 2742 extends outwardly from the outer periphery of the screen. The rim 2744 extends outwardly from the upper edge of the wall 2742. The catch tray 2740 is dimensioned to seat within the cavity defined by the opposing side faces and proximal end of the tray holder 2720. The catch tray 2740 is such that when the tray is seated k, the curved proximal sidewall 2742 of the proximal end of the tray abuts against the tray holder tab 2716 and is further dimensioned to cause outward deflection of the finger portion 2714. The forces exerted by the tray holder finger portion 2714 and tab 2716 on the catch tray 2740 when attempting to return them to their un-energized positions act to removably hold the tray in the tray holder 2712.

[0321] In some aspects of the invention, the components forming the cassette 2600 are configured such that when the catch tray 2740 is attached to the tray holder 2712, the distance from the bottom surface of the skid 2726 to the top surface of the catch tray rim 2744 is approximately 0.5 mm greater than the vertical height between the respective surfaces (defining the top of the upper chamber 2654 and the base of the groove 2658) within the sleeve 2640.

[0322] The cassette 2600, like the cassette 1700, is prepared for use by inserting and rotating the cassette 2600 into the receptacle 1699 as shown in FIG. 62. The suction line 50 through which a fluid stream containing a tissue sample of value to be collected passes is attached to the fixture 2664. The suction line 50 through which a fluid stream not containing a tissue sample of value to be collected passes is attached to the fixture 2616. In this aspect of the invention, it should be understood that the sleeve 2640, and thus the cavity 2652, is spaced forwardly from the remainder of the cassette 2600.

[0323] The screen holder 2702 is seated within the sleeve cavity 2652. The screen ho​​​​​​​​​​​​ The width between the outer surfaces of the ladder rib 2718 is somewhat greater than the width across the upper chamber 2654 of the cavity 2652, so that the rib will be pressed against the inner surfaces of the three sheets 2640 that define the chamber 2652. This will serve to hold the screen holder 2704 in a somewhat compressed state against the sleeve 2640. During the period when it is not necessary to collect a sample from the fluid flowing through the fitting 2664, the catch tray is configured not to seat within the tray holder 2740. When the cassette 2600 is operated in this state, the fluid flow will be directed from the fitting 2664 through the cavity 2652 and the opening 266 6. From the opening 2664, the fluid is directed across the filter 2605 and into the cavity 2604, and out through the outlet opening 2606. Since the catch tray 27 40 is not attached to the screen holder 2704, this fluid flow is not screen filtered, because the flow does not pass through the sleeve cavity 2652. During operation of the cassette 2600, it should be understood that the inner surface of the face plate 2704 of the screen holder is positioned against the seal 2646. By the abutment of the plate 2704 against the seal 2646, suction loss at the interface between the sleeve 2640 and the screen holder 2704 is prevented.

[0324] When it is beneficial to collect a sample, the screen holder 2702 is removed from the sleeve 264 0, thereby enabling the catch tray 2704 to be attached to the holder. This step can be performed while maintaining suction to the cassette 2600. The abutment of the plate 2704 against the seal 2646 prevents suction loss at the interface between the sleeve 2640 and the screen holder 2704.

[0325] When it is beneficial to collect a sample, the screen holder 2702 is removed from the sleeve 264 0, allowing the catch tray 2704 to be attached to the holder. This step can be carried out while maintaining suction to the cassette 2600. This step can be performed while maintaining suction to the cassette 2600. ​。The screen holder 2702 is removed by pulling the tab 2706. 。More specifically, due to the positioning of the tab 2706, when the tab is pulled, the face plate 2704 of the screen holder pivots outwardly and downwardly with respect to the seal 2646 attached to the sleeve 2640. In other words, the user performing this operation can overcome the attractive force holding the plate to the sleeve 2640 by using the face plate 2704 as a lever. 。

[0326] When the screen holder 2702 is pulled out from the sleeve 2640, the catch tray 2740 seats within the tray holder 1712. As described above, due to the flexure of the fin guard portion 2714, the tray holder finger portion 2714 and the tab 2716 can removably hold the catch tray within the cavity in the tray holder 2712. The screen holder is then reinserted into the sleeve cavity 2652.

[0327] In an aspect of the invention where the vertical height between the catch tray rim 2744 and the skid 2726 is greater than the vertical height between the top of the upper chamber 2654 and the base of the groove 2658, the tray holder legs 2724, 2728 flex. Due to the elasticity of the material forming the screen holder 2702, the legs 2724, 2728 apply a force to the catch tray 2740 via the tray holder 2712. This force biases the catch tray rim 2744 against the inner surface of the sleeve 2640 that defines the upper chamber 2654. When fluid flows through the screen cavity 2652 again, this is from the fixture 2666. ​​​​​​​Ensure that the entire fluid flow substantially crosses a screen integral with the catch tray 2640. This will be practical. Thus, any large object within this fluid flow, ideally, any tissue that the operator desires to capture for study, will be captured within the catch tray 2740. This is the case.

[0328] It should be understood that due to the design of the cassette 2600, the sleeve 2640 is positioned in front of the manifold receptacle 1690. Typically, the cassette 2600 or at least the sleeve 2640 is formed from a transparent material. In short, due to these features of the present invention, medical personnel can observe the flow through the sleeve void 2652 before the fluid flow is directed into the waste collection unit. This enables medical personnel to determine when the tissue necessary for research has been captured within the catch tray 2740.

[0329] The ability to quickly observe the catch tray 2740 is further enhanced by the fact that the sleeve 2640 is positioned in front of the remainder of the cassette 2600, i.e., in front of the cassette housing. Due to this protruding arrangement of the sleeve, the personnel will necessarily direct their eyes towards the sleeve and the catch tray seated within the sleeve.

[0330] In an alternative aspect of this embodiment of the present invention, the catch tray is integral with a screen holder. In these aspects of the present invention, an additional component, the essential face plate 2704, is also provided. This face plate is attached functions as a flap.

[0331] [IX. Alternative Embodiments] Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention, and that the elements and features of the present invention may be replaced with equivalents. For example, the elements and / or features of one embodiment may be combined with the elements and / or features of other embodiments or may be replaced. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular system, apparatus, or component to the teachings of the present invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. It is intended that the present invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out the present invention.

[0332] For example, not all aspects of the present invention necessarily have all of the features described. The features of the various embodiments of the present invention may be combined with each other. Similarly, not all aspects of the present invention necessarily include the highly mobile waste collection unit described herein, i.e., the loader 30. For example, in some aspects of the present invention, the waste collection unit may simply be configured from a mobile or stationary unit connected to an external suction source. The manifold receptacle and complementary manifold would then be attached to this waste collection unit.

[0333] For example, not all aspects of the present invention necessarily include a mechanism for supplying irrigation fluid in addition to functioning as a suction conduit. Similarly, the system generally designed to be used as part of a collection system, although other aspects of the invention may not have this function. Thus, some aspects of the invention are relatively small cannisters, i.e., cannisters capable of holding up to 10 liters of waste, or may not have them. In these aspects of the invention, the waste is collected (recovered) only as a by-product (tissue) of the main object of the operation. In these aspects of the invention therefore, the cassette may not be provided with components that facilitate sending fluid to the site where suction is applied.

[0334] Similarly, the use of the present invention is not limited to a system for collecting tissue from the gastrointestinal tract. In other aspects of the invention, the suction applying device may be designed to be inserted into the esophagus. Thus, the suction applying device may be used to draw in materials containing tissue from the esophagus or stomach. Still other aspects of the invention may be used with a device inserted into the pulmonary duct. These aspects of the invention may be used to selectively collect tissue from these pulmonary ducts or the lungs.

[0335] Furthermore, in some aspects of the invention, the cassette may have its own filter. When the system is not in the tissue collection mode, the fluid flow drawn in from the site where the suction applying device acts will flow through this filter. Thus, this filter functions to capture solids that may adversely affect the operation of other components of the waste collection unit. These solids include sutures and tissue fragments that the operator does not wish to save for further study.

[0336] In this aspect of the invention, the tissue trap is arranged to be directly aligned with this cassette filter so as to be selectively positioned upstream of the cassette filter. When the operator notices that a portion of the tissue incorporated into the fluid flow is contained within the aspiration device, either by the positioning of the tissue trap or the actuation of the valve, the tissue trap will be arranged directly with the cassette filter.

[0337] In the aspects of the invention described with reference to FIGS. 35 - 44, the screen 1890 is not always rectangular. In some aspects of the invention, if the screen is curved, a single wall may extend around the screen to define a cavity in which the tissue is captured. Similarly, in all aspects of this embodiment of the invention, the second fixture 1732 need not necessarily be provided. Further, alternative means may be provided to removably hold the catch tray 1880 in the holder 1852. Examples of such alternative engagement mechanisms include magnets and snap - type fixtures. In aspects of the invention where the catch tray hangs from the holder, the tray may hang from a single beam extending from the holder.

[0338] The back - flow prevention valve that prevents back - flow through the fixtures 1732, 1734 may be different from those described. For example, a one - way valve such as a flapper valve may be attached to each of the fixtures 1732, 1734.

[0339] Similarly, in some embodiments of the invention, the outlet opening 1770 of the cassette is ​​​​​​​​​​​​​Similarly, in all of the cassettes of the present invention, It is not necessary that the shell be designed to rotate within a complementary receptacle having a cylindrical side wall. In an alternative aspect of the invention, the shell may have a polygonal shape.

[0340] The advantage of this aspect of the invention is that the suction flow is always filtered, removing material downstream of the collection system. The purpose of this is to prevent possible damage to the components. When it is desirable to maintain the The cap 1740 is held in place by the fittings 1732 and 1734. Additionally, in all aspects of the present invention, the cassette is The bypass fitting 1732 may not necessarily be provided. Any one of the cassettes of the present invention may be provided with multiple bypass fittings.

[0341] Structures other than O-rings, such as gaskets, provide a seal between the cap 1862 and the It may be designed to be as follows.

[0342] Various means may be used to control the components of the present invention. An unattached foot switch assembly may be provided. One or more The device uses multiple foot switches to control the suction or irrigation pump. It is therefore contemplated that the scope of the appended claims will fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. It is intended to include all such variations and modifications.

Claims

1. A sample collection cassette (2600) for use in a medical waste collection assembly, the sample collection cassette (2600) comprising: a housing (2602, 2610) including a cap portion (2610) and a shell portion (2602) coupled to the cap portion (2610) to define a chamber (2604); a tissue trap (2702) including a screen (2741) defining a porous feature; the shell portion (2602) having an outlet opening (2606) at a proximal end portion; the cap portion (2610) comprising: a cap end plate (2614); a sleeve (2640) extending forwardly or distally from the cap end plate (2614) and defining a cavity (2652) in fluid communication with the chamber (2604); a fixture (2664) extending from the sleeve (2640) and defining a bore opening into the cavity (2652); the tissue trap (2702) being configured to be removably coupled to the housing (2602, 2610) together with the screen (2741) disposed within the cavity (2652) for collecting a tissue sample including fluid waste passing through the porous feature during operation of the medical waste collection assembly. A sample collection cassette (2600).

2. The longitudinal axis extending longitudinally through the sleeve (2640) is offset towards the sleeve (2640) from the central axis of the sample collection cassette (2600), which is the central axis about which the cap end plate (2614) rotates during coupling of the sample collection cassette (2600) to the medical waste collection assembly. The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1.

3. The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1, further comprising a bypass fixture (2616) extending outwardly from the cap end plate (2614) and configured to receive a suction line (50).

4. The specimen collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1, further comprising a flapper valve unit (1814) coupled inside the cap end plate (2614).

5. A sample collection cassette (2600) for use in a medical waste collection assembly, the sample collection cassette (2600) comprising: A housing (2602, 2612, 2614) including a cap portion (2610) and a shell portion (2602) coupled to the cap portion (2610) to define a chamber (2604). A tissue trap (2702) including a screen (2741) defining a porous feature. The shell portion (2602) has an outlet opening (2606) at a proximal end portion. The cap portion (2610). A sleeve (2640) defining a cavity (2652) in fluid communication with the chamber (2604). An attachment (2664) extending from the sleeve (2640) and defining a bore opening into the cavity (2652). The tissue trap (2702) is configured to be removably coupled to the housing (2602, 2612, 2614) together with the screen (2741) disposed within the cavity (2652) for collecting a tissue sample including fluid waste passing through the porous feature during operation of the medical waste collection assembly. The longitudinal axis extending longitudinally through the sleeve (2640) is offset toward the sleeve (2640) from the central axis of the sample collection cassette (2600), which is the central axis about which the sample collection cassette (2600) rotates during coupling of the sample collection cassette (2600) and the medical waste collection assembly. Sample collection cassette (2600). **Claim 6** Further comprising a bypass fitting (2616) configured to receive a suction line (50). The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 5, wherein the sleeve (2640) and the bypass fitting (2616) are disposed opposite each other across the central axis of the sample collection cassette (2600). **Claim 7** The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1 or 5, wherein the sleeve (2640) is configured to be disposed in front of the manifold receptacle (1690) of the medical waste collection assembly with the shell portion (2602) of the sample collection cassette (2600) disposed within the manifold receptacle (1690). **Claim 8** The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1 or 5, wherein the attachment (2664) is coupled to an upper surface of the sleeve (2640) and extends away from the upper surface of the sleeve (2640). **Claim 9** The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1 or 5, further comprising a filter (2605) disposed within the shell portion (2602).

10. The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1 or 5, wherein the sleeve (2640) and the cap portion (2610) are integrally formed.

11. The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1 or 5, further comprising a backflow prevention valve (1814) configured to prevent backflow from the chamber (2604) to the cavity (2652).

12. The sleeve (2640) is formed such that the cavity (2652) includes an upper chamber (2654) and a lower chamber (2656). The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 1 or 5, wherein the lower chamber (2656) has a smaller cross-sectional height and cross-sectional width than the upper chamber (2654).

13. The sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 12, wherein the tissue trap (2702) is formed to have a width greater than a cross-sectional width across the lower chamber (2656) inside the sleeve (2640).

14. The bore of the fixture (2664) is open within the top of the upper chamber (2654) in the cavity (2652), the sample collection cassette (2600) according to claim 12.

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