Vapor filter for use during endoscope gas sterilization

Abstract

Various embodiments disclosed relate to sterilization of endoscopes without damaging internal components with sterilant vapors. A device may include a longitudinal body extending between a proximal portion and a distal portion. A device may include a channel extending along the longitudinal body. A device may include an internal portion of the longitudinal body separate from the channel, the internal portion configured to house one or more components. A device may include a valve fluidly connecting the internal portion to an external environment. A device may include an activated carbon filter removably coupled to the valve, the activated carbon filter configured to prevent corrosive vapors from entering the internal portion.

Description

VAPOR FILTER FOR USE DURING ENDOSCOPE GAS STERILIZATIONCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 560,265 entitled “VAPOR FILTER FOR USE DURING ENDOSCOPE GAS STERILIZATION,” filed March 1, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Endoscopes are medical devices, often including lights or optical components, which can be used to look into a body cavity or organ. Endoscopes can be inserted, for example, through natural openings, such as a mouth or anus. Endoscopes can leverage optics, ergonomics, precision mechanics, software, and electronics in combination. Endoscopes can be used, for example, in the air of a medical diagnosis. Specialized endoscopes can include, but are not limited to, nephroscopes, athroscopes, colonoscopes, laparoscopes, cystoscopes, and bronchoscopes. These can be used to examine, visually diagnose, or assist during surgical procedures. Endoscopes can be used in procedures related to the gastrointestinal tract, the biliary tract, the urinary tract, the respiratory tract, ear, nose, and throat (ENT), or other laparoscopy procedures, among others.

[0003] Many endoscopes include tubes or elongated lumens. These tubes can be rigid or flexible, depending on the specific endoscope. Endoscopes can include a light transmission system, a lens system, and sometimes an eyepiece. In some cases, an additional channel for use of other medical instruments alongside the endoscope can be included.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope including: a longitudinal body extending between a proximal portion and a distal portion; a channel extending along the longitudinal body; an internal portion of the longitudinal body separate fromthe channel, the internal portion configured to house one or more components; a valve fluidly connecting the internal portion to an external environment; and an activated carbon filter removably coupled to the valve, the activated carbon filter configured to prevent corrosive vapors from entering the internal portion.

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system including: an endoscope including: an internal portion; an external surface; a valve fluidly connecting the internal portion to the external surface; and an activated carbon filter on the valve, the activated carbon filter configured to prevent corrosive vapors from entering the internal portion; and a sterilizing system including: a sterilant production device actuatable to produce a sterilant vapor; and a chamber configured to contain the endoscope and to receive the sterilant vapor for sterilizing the endoscope.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of sterilizing an endoscope, the method including: receiving an endoscope in a sterilizing system chamber, the endoscope including at least one valve extending between an internal portion and an external surface of the endoscope, the valve connected with an activated carbon filter; sealing the endoscope within the chamber; delivering a sterilant vapor into the chamber to sterilize the external surface and all channels of endoscope; and filtering the sterilant vapor with the activated carbon filter to restrict the sterilant vapor from entering the internal portion of the endoscope.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

[0008] FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of an endoscope sterilizing system with a leak check valve in an example.

[0009] FIG. 2A depicts a diagram of an endoscope with a leak check valve in an example.

[0010] FIG. 2B depicts a zoomed-in diagram of an endoscope portion with an activated carbon filter on a leak check valve in an example.

[0011] FIG. 3 depicts a diagram of an activated carbon filter in an example.

[0012] FIG. 4 depicts a flow chart showing a method of using an activated carbon filter on an endoscope leak check valve in an example.

[0013] FIG. 5 depicts a schematic diagram of a test system used in an example.

[0014] FIGS. 6-8 depicts graphs of results from an example.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Discussed herein is a system and method of using carbon filters to prevent sterilant vapors from entering the interior of the endoscope during gas sterilization processes. The carbon filters, filled with activated carbon, absorb and trap vapors, preventing them from entering the endoscope. Gas flow of other, non-corrosive vapors is still allowed through the carbon canisters both ways to maintain equalized pressure inside and outside the endoscope.

[0016] Endoscopes, used for a variety of medical procedures, are cleaned and sterilized at several steps of the process, such as before or after use in such a medical procedure. Sterilization of endoscopes is referred to as “reprocessing”, which can include several steps, including manual and automated cleaning, sterilization, drying, and storage steps.

[0017] One such step includes gas sterilization of an endoscope. In gas sterilization, the endoscope is placed in a sealed chamber with controlled relative humidity, temperature, and gas flow. A vacuum can be applied to the chamber, pulling a sterilization gas through portions of the endoscope that came into contact with a patient anatomy, fluids, external environment, or otherwise were contaminated, including various channels therein, in addition to different mechanical parts of the endoscope. Once sterilization is completed with the sterilizing gas and the endoscope is removed from the chamber, the chamber can be flushed with air to remove the sterilizing gas.

[0018] Such gas sterilization of endoscopes can be particularly challenging. For example, where flexible endoscopes are being sterilized in this fashion, the endoscopes often have complex shapes that require a high level of penetration by the sterilization gas. Additionally,both flexible and rigid endoscopes can include particular parts or materials, such as seals, electronics, or optical components, which need to be treated gently, and not corroded by the sterilization gas.

[0019] Several of these components can be found on the interior of an endoscope, such as at a connector portion which is fluidly in communication with an external environment via a leak check valve on the endoscope. As discussed herein, a carbon canister filter can be used on an endoscope leak check valve to prevent sterilant vapors from entering the interior of an endoscope where particularly sensitive materials are located. The carbon canister filter can trap and absorb corrosive gas vapors during the sterilization process. This can allow other vapors to continue moving freely across the opened valve and other connectors, while maintaining equalized pressure inside and outside of the endoscope and allowing sterilization of the endoscope external surface and channels without damaging internal components.

[0020] Overall, the use of such a filter on the leak check valve of the endoscope can allow gas to move across the connector and relieve pressure during the sterilization cycle, but at the same time prevent sterilant vapor from entering interior portions of the endoscope, such as portions including electronic or optical components, by trapping it in the filter.

[0021] FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of an endoscope cleaning system 100 and an endoscope 200 with an activated carbon filter 300 in an example. FIG. 2A depicts a diagram of the endoscope 200 with the activated carbon filter 300 on the valve 220 in an example. FIG. 2B depicts a zoomed-in diagram of an endoscope portion with an activated carbon filter on a leak check valve in an example. FIG. 3 depicts examples of the activated carbon filter 300 in an example. FIGS. 1-3 will be discussed together.

[0022] Shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 can be used for sterilization of an endoscope such as the endoscope 200. The system 100 can include a sterilant production device 110 for production of a sterilant gas 112, a vacuum system 114, a chamber 120 with hookups 122 and a door 124, and optionally a user interface 130. The system 100 can be seen in a cross-sectional view in FIG. 1.

[0023] The chamber 120 can be sized and shaped for receiving the endoscope 200 for sterilization. For example, the chamber 120 can optionally include one or more trays or shelvesfor receiving the endoscope 200. The chamber 120 can be accessed, for example, by the door 124 (a portion of which is seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1), or alternatively by a different window or access point. The chamber 120 can include one or more hookups 122 for connecting an endoscope therein. The hookups 122 can optionally be for securing the endoscope 200 in place, and / or for fluidly connecting one or more channels of the endoscope 200 as desired. The chamber 120 can define an environment 121 in which the endoscope 200 can be sterilized.

[0024] The sterilant production device 110 can be a device, apparatus, or connection for providing one or more sterilant gases or vapors into the chamber 120. The sterilant production device 110, for example, can be an atomizer, vaporizer, bubbler, or other device that receives a liquid sterilant and produces the sterilant gas 112. The sterilant gas 112 can be, for example, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, acetic acid, ethylene oxide, or combinations thereof.

[0025] The sterilant gas 112 can be flowed into the chamber 120 for sterilization of the endoscope 200. In an example, the sterilant gas 1 12 can be provided by bubbling a liquid sterilant, such as about 100 pL to 1,000 pL of the sterilant liquid. In an example, the sterilant gas 112 can be vaporized hydrogen peroxide. For example, hydrogen peroxide vapor can be generated by several methods. One such example is to atomize the liquid hydrogen peroxide at low pressure (e.g., about 10 torr) to allow hydrogen peroxide to vaporize for use in the sterilization process.

[0026] The vacuum system 114 can adjust pressure within the chamber 120 as desired, depending on the particular type of sterilant gas used. The vacuum system 114 can optionally be integrated with the sterilant production device 110.

[0027] The user interface 130 can be provided, such as on a side panel or external surface of the system 100, to show text or graphic information to a user or operator. Optionally, the user interface 130 can be an interactive interface, such as a series of buttons, switches, a keyboard, or a touch-screen, with which a user can interact, such as to set or update parameters within the system 100.

[0028] Shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the endoscope 200 can include a longitudinal body 210 extending between a proximal portion 212 and a distal portion 214, a channel 216 extending along the longitudinal body, an internal components 218 of the endoscope 200 distinct from thechannel 216, a valve 220 connecting the internal components 218 to an external environment 121 in the chamber 120, and the activated carbon filter 300 in the valve 220.

[0029] The longitudinal body 210 can be sized and shaped for insertion into a patient for an endoscopy procedure. The longitudinal body 210 can extend between a proximal portion 212, which may be connected to a handle or other component for handling the endoscope, and a distal portion 214, which can be sized and shaped for insertion into the target area.

[0030] A channel 216 can extend along the length of the longitudinal body 210. In some cases, more than one channel can be in the longitudinal body 210. The channel 216 can be sized and shaped for use in an endoscopy, such as for visual diagnostic or treatment, or for use of one or more other medical devices therein. The channel 216 can be subject to exposure to a patient, a treatment site, or tissue, such as during a procedure. In some cases, channels can be used for flow of air or water. In some cases, channels can be used for biopsy of tissue, for suction, for elevator, or other uses.

[0031] The internal components 218 of the endoscope 200 can be distinct from the channel 216. The internal components 218 can, for example, include wires and electronic components, such as fiber optic parts inside the device that should not be exposed to chemicals. Such components are not subject to soil during use. Chemicals, such as the sterilant, used during endoscope reprocessing can potentially damage or degrade such components in the internal components 218.

[0032] During a sterilization processing of an endoscope, sterilant fluid can sterilize and disinfect various channels and surfaces of the endoscope, but should not reach into the internal components 218. Closure of a leak test connection can help shield the internal components 218 from the external environment 121 and sterilant.

[0033] For example, the valve 220 can connect the internal components 218 to the external environment 121 in the chamber 120. The valve 220 can be actuatable between an open position where the internal components 218 is exposed and a closed position where the internal components 218 is sealed. Here, the open position can be covered by the activated carbon filter 300. In this way, the valve 220 can prevent corrosive gas or liquid from entering the internal components 218.

[0034] In an example, the valve 220 can be a leak check valve. In an example, the valve 220 can be a check valve. In an example, the valve 220 can be a manually activated valve. In an example, the valve 220 can be an automated or semi-automated valve. As shown closer in FIG. 2B, the valve 220 can be situated on a removeable cap 223 on the endoscope near the internal components 218. The cap 223 can control exposure and access to the internal components 218. The valve 220 can be connected to the fdter 300. Optionally, the valve 220 can be connected to tubing 225 (e.g., shown in FIG. 2A) for leak check measurements. Such a leak check valve can be a valve actuatable for checking whether or not leakage is occurring into the internal components 218. For example, the leak check valve can be used to offer a port to run a leak test with air, such that a user can determine whether there is any fluid leakage that would cause damage to the internal components. If a leak is detected, it may indicate that internal components have been damaged.

[0035] A leak check valve can, for example, be attachable or removable from the endoscope 200 at a port or opening thereon. In some cases, the leak check valve can be integrated with the endoscope 200. The activated carbon fdter 300 can be attachable to the valve itself to filter fluid flowing through the valve 220, and the activated carbon filter 300 can be directly coupled or indirectly coupled to the valve 220 (e.g., indirectly coupled via tubing or conduit).

[0036] Shown in FIG. 3, the activated carbon filter 300 can be configured to prevent corrosive vapors from entering the internal components 218. Specifically, the activated carbon filter 300 can be situated on the valve 220 to prevent movement of fluid across the valve 220 even when in an open position. Different variants of the filter 300 are shown as filters 300A to 300E.

[0037] The activated carbon filter 300 can, in an example, include activated carbon granules, and be used as a cleaning agent for air and gases, such as the sterilant gases. In some cases, the activated carbon filter 300 can have a high loading capacity and a high proportion of pores. In an example, the activated carbon filter 300 can be any of the variants 300 A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, or others. For example, the activated carbon filter 300 can be a disk shape,can include one or more tapered or mating ends, and can be sized and shaped for connection to the valve 220.

[0038] The activated carbon fdter 300 can be connected, for example, on one side to the valve 220, and be open on the other side. The activated carbon filter 300 can be absorbent and filter out corrosive chemicals from entering the internal components 218 through the valve 220. In an example, the activated carbon filter 300 can have a Luer connection style. In an example, the activated carbon filter 300 can be attached through a leak test connector as shown in FIG. 2B.

[0039] In an example, the activated carbon filter 300 can be a canister, a flat, a round, a thin, a tablet, or other formation, such as those pictured in FIG. 3, or other variants. In an example, the activated carbon filter 300 can have a density of about 1.5 to 3.0 g / cm3. This density can be adjusted and the specific density of carbon chosen based on the particular endoscope and sterilization processes.

[0040] The activated carbon filter 300 should align in a way such that the full valve 220 is filtered during ingress and egress of fluid therethrough. In some cases, the activated carbon filter 300 can be oriented within the valve 220 to length the flow path therethrough, such as to allow for sterilant vapors to be absorbed by the activated carbon filter 300 before the fluid exits the valve 220.

[0041] For example, the activated carbon filter 300 can be attachable to the valve 220, such as a leak check valve. In some cases, the activated carbon filter 300 can be integrated with the valve 220. In some cases, the activated carbon filter 300 can be attachable to the valve 220. In some cases, the activated carbon filter 300 can be inserted between the valve 220 and a port on the endoscope 200. In any case, the activated carbon filter 300 can be situated to filter the flow of fluid from the external environment 121 into the internal components 218 area, such that sterilant vapors, which may be corrosive, are filtered out prior to reaching the internal components 218. In some cases, the activated carbon filter 300 can be replaceable as desired.

[0042] The length of the activated carbon filter 300 can be tailored depending on the specific parameters for sterilant flow rate. The flow rate can be governed by the pressure differential between the chamber 120 of the system 100 and the internal components 218 of theendoscope 200. The pressure differential can vary the flow rate through the activated carbon filter 300 as the differences in pressure changes during reprocessing of the endoscope 200.

[0043] The use of the activated carbon filter 300 with the valve 220 can help protect the internal components 218 of the endoscope 200. The internal components 218 is not intended to be sterilized or disinfected during reprocessing of the endoscope 200. While other channels, lumen, and surfaces, such as channels of 216, are sterilized during reprocessing, the activated carbon filter 300 helps remove corrosive vapors from the sterilant before they reach the internal components 218.

[0044] Moreover, the use of the activated carbon filter 300 can allow for fluid flow through the valve 220 into the internal components 218 area of the endoscope 200. This can help filtered gas enter all portions of the endoscope 200, and equalize pressure in the endoscope 200 within the chamber 120 during sterilization. In cases where pressure is not equalized, areas can potentially burst from too high a pressure differential, creating other damage to the endoscope 200 or the system 100. Thus, the flow of gas into the internal components 218 area can be beneficial to help alleviate pressure concerns.

[0045] FIG. 4 depicts a flow chart showing a method of using an activated carbon filter on an endoscope leak check valve in an example. The method 400 can include blocks 410 to 440.

[0046] At block 410, an endoscope can be received in a sterilizing system chamber, such as the system 100 and endoscope 200 discussed above.

[0047] The endoscope can have at least one valve (such as valve 220 discussed above) between an external surface of the endoscope and an internal portion of the endoscope. The internal portion of the endoscope can be distinct from channels that may be exposed during a medical procedure. The internal portion can include, for example, optical or electronic components that should not come into contact with corrosive sterilizing vapors or fluid. The valve can be sealed with an activated carbon fdter, such that fluid flowing through the valve flows through the activated carbon filter.

[0048] At block 420, the endoscope can be sealed within the chamber for sterilization and / or disinfection (e.g., endoscope reprocessing).

[0049] At block 430, a sterilant gas can be delivered into the chamber to sterilize the endoscope, such as at external surfaces and through endoscope channels. The sterilant gas can be hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, acetic acid, or combinations thereof. In some cases, ethylene oxide gas can be used.

[0050] In an example, the sterilant gas can be delivered at a rate of about 0.5 to 5,000 mL / min. The flow rate can be dynamic, and change depending on the pressure differential between the chamber of the sterilizer used and the internal portion of the endoscope. The flow rate can vary through the filter accordingly as differences in pressure change during the reprocessing method.

[0051] In an example, the sterilant gas can be produced by bubbling, atomizing, or vaporizing a liquid sterilant into the chamber. For example, a sterilant liquid of about 200 to about 500 pL can be bubbled to produce a gas sterilant. In some cases, the sterilant gas can be provided in an amount of about 0.1 mb to about 1 .0 mb. In another example, flash vaporization can be used to vaporize a small volume of sterilant. In another example, atomization can be used with a larger volume of sterilant.

[0052] At block 440, the sterilant gas mixture can be fdtered with the activated carbon filter to restrict the sterilant gas from entering the internal portion of the endoscope. This can be done simultaneously to delivery of the sterilant gas to the chamber and sterilization of the endoscope. The filter can be used to restrict and prevent the sterilant gas from entering the internal portion of the endoscope.

[0053] Meanwhile, other parts of the endoscope, such as surfaces and channels for air, water, biopsy, suction, or other uses, can be exposed to and sterilized by the sterilant gas. In an example, at least about 90% of the sterilant gas can be filtered out, or at least about 95% of the sterilant gas, or at least about 99% of the sterilant gas.

[0054] EXAMPLES

[0055] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can be better understood by reference to the following Examples which are offered by way of illustration. The present disclosure is not limited to the Examples given herein.

[0056] Example 1. Vapor Filter Testing

[0057] Several filters were tested to show that they could be used on an endoscope leak check valve, and allow gas to move across the filter to relieve pressure while simultaneously filter out corrosive sterilant vapors.

[0058] A test system was assembled, a schematic diagram of which is shown in FIG. 5. The system 500 was used for filter testing. The system 500 included a bubble 510, a flow meter 520, a filter 530, and a vapor trap 540. The bubbler 510 was used as a vaporization source. The bubbler 510 was 250 mb in volume. In use, the bubbler 510 was heated to 70°C. The vapor trap 540 was a 25mL glass bubbler filled with lOmL of deionized water placed in and cooled via an ice / water bath. A nitrogen gas line was used in the test system, and PTFE tubing with silicone connection joints was used.

[0059] The filter 530 was set up for use with activated carbon material. Several filters were tested. These included a 25mL Glass bubbler filled with Activated Carbon (MarCor, PN: ME50097 for activated carbon) with glass wool was used to prevent the particle from exiting the entrance; a 25mL Glass Bubbler filled with activated carbon from inside an Organic Vapor Cartridge Pl 00 Filter (3M, PN: 60921 for filter cartridge) with glass wool was used to prevent the particle from exiting the entrance (Note: this filter was cut open to extract only the activated carbon for testing; a 3M Particle Filter P100, PN 2091; a 1pm PTFE filter with Polypropylene case, Whatman Puradisc 25TF; and a 0.8pm filter, Drummand Self Locking Double Layer Filter.

[0060] The filters were tested by running nitrogen gas through the bubble at 5L per minute flow rate. The flow was adjusted to 5L / minute based on the filter used. The bubbler was heated to approximately 70 °C. The bubbler was connected to the filter as shown in FIG. 5. Here, 400 uL of the sterilant was added and bubbled into the system. Testing was done independently with peracetic acid (PAA), with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and with acetic acid (AA) from REVOX® (Steris).

[0061] For each filter, a micropipette was used for injection of the sterilant mixture into the test system upstream of the bubbler 510. The sterilant mixture was allowed to bubble and run with the nitrogen in the bubbler 510 and run through the test filters as sterilant gas.

[0062] The nitrogen gas and sterilant vapor mixture was allowed to run through the system for ten minutes. The nitrogen and sterilant vapor stream was flowed to the filter 530 firstto determine whether or not the filter would trap the sterilant vapor. After running through the filter the nitrogen and sterilant vapor stream ran through the vapor trap 540, where the sterilant vapor was collected and analyzed for vapor concentration. If the filter could trap the vapor sterilant, the sample collected in the vapor trap would show no detectable or low concentration of the sterilant.

[0063] The test was repeated with new deionized water in the vapor trap for each filter being tested. These tests were repeated with peracetic acid (PAA), with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and with acetic acid (AA). The results for each test were analyzed by titration and high- performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

[0064] The peracetic acid (PAA) vapor concentration (based on titration data) observed after the filter used in the experimental setup is summarized in Table 1 below.

[0065] Table 1. PAA vapor concentration.

[0066] The result showed that only the activated carbon filters trapped more than 95% of the PAA vapor.

[0067] The hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) vapor concentration (based on titration data) was observed after the filter used in the experimental setup, summarized in Table 2:

[0068] Table 2. Hydrogen peroxide vapor concentration.

[0069] The result showed that only the activated carbon filter can trap more than 95% of the hydrogen peroxide vapor.

[0070] Acetic acid (AA) vapor concentration (based on titration data) observed after the filter used in the experimental setup is summarized in Table 3 :

[0071] Table 3. Acetic acid vapor concentration.

[0072] The results showed that only the activated carbon filter can trap more than 90% of the acetic acid vapor. Overall, it appears that activated carbon filters efficiently trapped sterilant vapors greater than 90%, whether PAA, H2O2, or AA.

[0073] Example 2, Vapor Filter Leak Testing.

[0074] Additional filters were tested to show that they could be used on an endoscope leak check valve, and allow gas to move across the filter to relieve pressure while simultaneously filter out corrosive sterilant vapors.

[0075] The components and system used here in Example 2 were the same as those discussed in Example 1 above except where otherwise noted. Here, the bubbler system was used with an injection of 0.1 mL of sterilant, with a flow rate of 0.6 mL for 1 hour, and a lOmL of deionized water in a cold trap. H2O2, PAA, and AA were all tested with these parameters for two filters and without a filter.

[0076] The results were analyzed by HPLC. Results are shown for H2O2, PAA, and AA.The HPLC results are shown in FIGS. 6-8.

[0077] Shown in Table 4 are the filters summarized in ppm or area of filter left:0078] Table 4. Test results in ppm and area.

[0079] Here, the first filter and the second filter are both activated carbon filters. Shown in Table 5 are the results of the testing on each of the filters by mg left of each sterilant:

[0080] Table 5. Test results in mg.

[0081] Shown in Table 6 are the results of the testing on each of the filters by percent of sterilant removed:

[0082] Table 6. Test results in % removed.

[0083] Overall, both activated carbon filters performed well in removing a large percentage of sterilant vapors.

[0084] Additional Examples.

[0085] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope including: a longitudinal body extending between a proximal portion and a distal portion; a channel extending along the longitudinal body; an internal portion of the longitudinal body separate from the channel, the internal portion configured to house one or more components; a valve fluidly connecting the internal portion to an external environment; and an activated carbon filter removably coupled to the valve, the activated carbon filter configured to prevent corrosive vapors from entering the internal portion.

[0086] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope, wherein the valve is actuatable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position the valve is covered by the activated carbon filter.

[0087] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope, wherein the valve is a leak test valve or a check valve.

[0088] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope, wherein the valve is a manually activated valve.

[0089] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope, wherein the valve is an automatic valve.

[0090] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope, wherein the activated carbon filter includes a density of 0.5 g / cm3 to 3.0 g / cm3.

[0091] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope, wherein the activated carbon filter includes a carbon canister or a carbon disk.

[0092] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an endoscope, wherein the one or more components include electronic components, or optical components, or combinations thereof.

[0093] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system including: an endoscope including: an internal portion; an external surface; a valve fluidly connecting theinternal portion to the external surface; and an activated carbon filter on the valve, the activated carbon filter configured to prevent corrosive vapors from entering the internal portion; and a sterilizing system including: a sterilant production device actuatable to produce a sterilant vapor; and a chamber configured to contain the endoscope and to receive the sterilant vapor for sterilizing the endoscope.

[0094] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the endoscope further includes at least one channel fluidly separated from the internal portion.

[0095] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of sterilizing an endoscope, the method including: receiving an endoscope in a sterilizing system chamber, the endoscope including at least one valve extending between an internal portion and an external surface of the endoscope, the valve sealed with an activated carbon filter; sealing the endoscope within the chamber; delivering a sterilant vapor into the chamber to sterilize the external surface of endoscope; and filtering the sterilant vapor with the activated carbon filter to restrict the sterilant vapor from entering the internal portion of the endoscope.

[0096] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein filtering the sterilant vapor includes filtering at least 90% of the sterilant.

[0097] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein filtering the sterilant vapor includes filtering at least 95% of the sterilant.

[0098] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein filtering the sterilant vapor includes filtering at least 99% of the sterilant.

[0099] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the sterilant vapor includes hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, acetic acid, or combinations thereof.

[0100] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, further including sterilizing one or more channels in the endoscope, the one or more channels disconnected from the internal portion.

[0101] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein delivering the sterilant vapor is performed at a flow rate of about 1 to about 5 L / min.

[0102] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein delivering the sterilant vapor is performed at a flow rate of about 0.5 to 1.0 mL / hr.

[0103] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein delivering the sterilant vapor includes bubbling, atomizing, or vaporizing the sterilant to produce the sterilant vapor.

[0104] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein delivering the sterilant vapor is performed at a volume of about 0.1 to about 1.0 mb.

[0105] Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples.

[0106] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0107] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

[0108] In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in thefollowing claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0109] Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (e g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.

[0110] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An endoscope comprising: a longitudinal body extending between a proximal portion and a distal portion; a channel extending along the longitudinal body; an internal portion of the longitudinal body separate from the channel, the internal portion including one or more components; a valve fluidly connecting the internal portion to an external environment; and an activated carbon filter removably coupled to the valve, the activated carbon filter configured to prevent corrosive vapors from entering the internal portion.

2. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the valve is actuatable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position the valve is covered by the activated carbon filter.

3. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the valve is a leak test valve or a check valve.

4. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the valve is a manually activated valve.

5. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the valve is an automatic valve.

6. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the activated carbon filter comprises a density of 0.5 g / cm3to 3.0 g / cm3.

7. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the activated carbon filter comprises a carbon canister or a carbon disk.

8. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein the one or more components comprise electronic components, or optical components, or combinations thereof.

9. A system comprising: an endoscope comprising: an internal portion; an external surface; a valve fluidly connecting the internal portion to the external surface; and an activated carbon filter on the valve, the activated carbon filter configured to prevent corrosive vapors from entering the internal portion; and a sterilizing system comprising: a sterilant production device actuatable to produce a sterilant vapor; and a chamber configured to contain the endoscope and to receive the sterilant vapor for sterilizing the endoscope.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the endoscope further comprises at least one channel fluidly separated from the internal portion.

11. A method of sterilizing an endoscope, the method comprising: receiving an endoscope in a sterilizing system chamber, the endoscope comprising at least one valve extending between an internal portion and an external surface of the endoscope, the valve sealed with an activated carbon filter; sealing the endoscope within the chamber; delivering a sterilant vapor into the chamber to sterilize the external surface of endoscope; and filtering the sterilant vapor with the activated carbon filter to restrict the sterilant vapor from entering the internal portion of the endoscope.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein filtering the sterilant vapor comprises filtering at least 90% of the sterilant.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein filtering the sterilant vapor comprises filtering at least 95% of the sterilant.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein filtering the sterilant vapor comprises filtering at least 99% of the sterilant.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the sterilant vapor comprises hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, acetic acid, or combinations thereof.

16. The method of claim 11, further comprising sterilizing one or more channels in the endoscope, the one or more channels disconnected from the internal portion.

17. The method of claim 11 , wherein delivering the sterilant vapor is performed at a flow rate through the filter of about 0.2 to 2.0 mL / min.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein delivering the sterilant vapor is performed at a flow rate through the filter of about 0.5 to 1.0 mL / min.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein delivering the sterilant vapor comprises bubbling, atomizing, or vaporizing the sterilant to produce the sterilant vapor.

20. The method of claim 11, wherein delivering the sterilant vapor is performed at a volume of about 0.1 to about 20.0 mL.

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