U.S. patent application number 12/076841 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-01 for fluid collection and disposal system having interchangeable collection and other features and methods relating thereto.
Invention is credited to Adam S. Fedenia, Russ A. Johnson, Thomas L. Michaels, Wen Tang.
Application Number | 20090005747 12/076841 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39788832 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090005747 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Michaels; Thomas L. ; et
al. |
January 1, 2009 |
Fluid collection and disposal system having interchangeable
collection and other features and methods relating thereto
Abstract
Various implementations of a fluid collection system having a
flexible liner are disclosed. In one exemplary variation, the fluid
collection system may include a flexible liner configured to
collapse, a plurality of containers, back storage, specimen
collection containers, and/or automatic connection to a suction
source to reduce the volume of medical wastes, reduce the frequency
of disposal cycles, reduce risk of exposure to potentially
hazardous waste.
Inventors: |
Michaels; Thomas L.;
(McCullorn Lake, IL) ; Johnson; Russ A.; (Spring
Grove, IL) ; Fedenia; Adam S.; (Libertyville, IL)
; Tang; Wen; (Waukegan, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ARENT FOX LLP
1050 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, N.W., SUITE 400
WASHINGTON
DC
20036
US
|
Family ID: |
39788832 |
Appl. No.: |
12/076841 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60919607 |
Mar 23, 2007 |
|
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60963325 |
Aug 3, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/319 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65F 1/06 20130101; A61M
1/0001 20130101; A61M 1/0052 20140204; A61M 1/005 20140204; A61M
2205/7536 20130101; A61M 1/0017 20140204; B08B 9/08 20130101; A61M
1/0009 20130101; A61M 1/0005 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/319 |
International
Class: |
A61M 1/00 20060101
A61M001/00 |
Claims
1. A fluid collection system, comprising: a container having a top
opening; a lid configured to close the top opening, the container
and the lid defining a substantially sealed interior space
therebetween, wherein the lid includes a plurality of access ports
through which the interior space receives fluid, and wherein the
plurality of access ports are spaced around the perimeter of the
lid.
2. The fluid collection system according to claim 1, further
comprising: a flexible liner attached to the lid such that the
liner is interposed between the lid and the container when the lid
closes the top opening, the liner and the lid defining a
substantially sealed interior space therebetween, wherein the
flexible liner is configured to collapse into an at least partially
collapsed state as the fluid is removed from the interior
space.
3. A fluid collection system, comprising: a container having a top
opening; a lid configured to close the top opening; and a flexible
liner attached to the lid, such that the liner is interposed
between the lid and the container when the lid closes the top
opening, the liner and the lid defining a substantially sealed
interior space therebetween, wherein the lid includes an access
port through which the interior space receives fluid, wherein the
flexible liner is configured to collapse into an at least partially
collapsed state as the fluid is removed from the interior space,
and wherein the flexible liner includes an access port, in a
portion opposite the portion attaching to the lid, through which
the fluid may be removed from the interior space.
4. The fluid collection system according to claim 3, wherein the
access portion through which fluid may be removed from the interior
space is configured to be at least partially dependent on
gravity.
5. A fluid collection container comprising: a lid; an at least
partially rigid bottom; and a flexible liner attached between the
lid and the bottom, such that the lid, flexible liner, and bottom
define a substantially sealed interior space therebetween, the lid
including: an opening configured for communication with at least
one suction instrument through which the collection container
receives fluid; and an opening configured for communication with an
access port of a suction source, wherein the flexible liner is
configured to extend to a first position and to collapse to a
second position.
6. The liquid collection container according to claim 5, further
comprising: a first attachment piece extending from the lid; and a
second attachment piece extending from the bottom, wherein the
first and second attachment pieces are configured to communicate
the lid to the bottom such that the flexible liner is maintained in
a collapsed position.
7. A fluid collection system, comprising: a plurality of fluid
collection containers; and a disposable collection container
receiving housing, the housing including: at least one attachment
point for attachably receiving a plurality of fluid collection
containers; and an interface to a suction source, wherein each
fluid collection container, includes: a lid configured to attach to
the housing; and an interface configured to communicate with the
suction source.
8. The fluid collection system according to claim 7, wherein the
interface configured to communicate with the suction source
automatically communicates with the suction source when the fluid
collection container is placed at one of the at least one
attachment points for attachably receiving a plurality of fluid
collection containers.
9. The fluid collection system according to claim 8, further
comprising: an additional collection container configured to attach
to both a center piece communicating with the suction source and
the lid of at least one of the plurality of fluid collection
containers.
10. The fluid collection system according to claim 7, wherein fluid
collection container automatically communicates with an adjacent
fluid collection container when the fluid collection container is
placed at one of the at least one attachment points for attachably
receiving a plurality of fluid collection containers.
11. The fluid collection system according to claim 7, wherein the
housing is rotatable.
12. The fluid collection system according to claim 11, wherein the
housing further comprises: an open portion, wherein the open
portion provides access to at least one fluid collection container;
and an enclosing portion, wherein the enclosing portion covers at
least one fluid collection container.
13. The fluid collection system according to claim 7, wherein each
fluid collection container further includes: a collapsible liner
attached to the lid, such that the lid and collapsible liner form a
substantially sealed interior space, and wherein the liner is
configured to be expandable within the cavity.
14. A fluid collection system, comprising: a disposable collection
container; and a fluid collection container receiving housing, the
housing including: a first cavity for receiving the disposable
collection container; a second cavity configured to receive
collected fluid from the disposable collection container; and an
interface to a suction source, wherein the disposable collection
container, includes: a lid configured to attach to the housing; an
interface configured to communicate with the suction source; and a
collapsible liner attached to the lid, such that the lid and
collapsible liner form a substantially sealed interior space, and
wherein the liner is configured to be expandable within the
cavity.
15. A fluid collection system, comprising: a main body; a fluid
collection container received in the main body; a removable
attachment piece, the removable attachment piece including a vacuum
source; and an interface for connecting to a power source, wherein
the main body is configured to removably secure to the removable
attachment piece, and wherein the main body includes at least one
interface for communicating the fluid collection container with the
vacuum source.
16. The fluid collection system according to claim 15, wherein the
at least one interface is also configured to communicate with an
evacuation source when the removable attachment piece is
removed.
17. A fluid disposal station comprising: a main housing for
receiving a plurality of fluid collection containers; a conduit to
a waste repository; a conduit to a rinse fluid; a conveyor
attachment piece for drawing the plurality of fluid collection
containers through the main housing.
18. A fluid collection container comprising: a lid; a first
collection cavity attached to the lid to define a substantially
sealed interior space therebetween; a second collection cavity
attached to at least one selected from a group consisting of the
lid and the first collection cavity to define a second
substantially sealed interior space therebetween, wherein at least
one of the first and the second collection cavities comprise a
flexible liner configured to collapse into an at least partially
collapsed state.
19. A fluid collection container comprising: a lid; and a flexible
liner attached to the lid to define a substantially sealed interior
space therebetween, wherein the flexible liner is configured to
collapse into an at least partially collapsed state as fluid is
removed from the interior space, and wherein the flexible liner
includes at least one selected from a group consisting of a
plurality of ribs extending in a longitudinal manner, a plurality
of circumferential rings, and a flexible tube.
20. A fluid collection container comprising: a lid; and a cavity
connected to the lid to define a substantially sealed space
therebetween; an interface for communicating the sealed space with
a vacuum source; at least one opening configured to allow fluid to
be drawn into the sealed space; and a closure piece biased against
the at least one opening, wherein the closure piece is configured
to move away from the opening when an attachment piece is attached
to the at least one opening.
21. A method of evacuating a collapsible collection container, the
method comprising: securing a fluid collection container receiving
housing, to a disposal system; attaching the collapsible collection
container so as to communicate via a first conduit with a suction
disposal source in the disposal system; collapsing the fluid
collection container by evacuating the contents of the collapsible
collection container; and cleaning the interior of the collapsible
collection container.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of
priority from prior U.S. provisional application No. 60/919,607,
filed on Mar. 23, 2007, titled LIQUID COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL
SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS and U.S. provisional application No.
60/963,325, filed on Aug. 3, 2007, titled LIQUID COLLECTION AND
DISPOSAL SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS, the entire contents of each of
which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] This application is also related to applicants' copending
U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, filed on Mar. 24, 2008,
titled FLUID COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS,
the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Technical Field of the Invention
[0004] Aspects of the present invention relate generally to fluid
collection and disposal systems and related methods. More
specifically, particular variations relate to waste collection and
disposal systems that utilize flexible liners, a plurality of
containers, back storage, specimen collection containers, and/or
automatic connection to a suction source, and related methods of
use thereof.
[0005] 2. Brief Description of Related Art
[0006] Hospital operating rooms, emergency rooms, and other
healthcare facilities generate a large volume of fluid waste, which
may include irrigation fluids and secretions removed from a
patient's body (e.g., blood and other bodily liquids). To collect
and dispose of such fluid waste, suction canisters are typically
used. A typical suction canister is a temporary storage container
that uses suction to create a negative pressure inside the canister
to drain fluids or secretions from the patients' body. After each
medical procedure (e.g., surgery), the canister containing the
fluid waste is transported to a utility area to be disposed of as
red-bag waste or to be emptied, cleaned, and disinfected for reuse.
A new or cleaned canister is then brought into the operating room
for a next medical procedure. This process can be labor intensive
and time consuming. Furthermore, since this process is performed
following every medical procedure, the frequency of the process may
increase the clinicians' risk of exposure to potentially hazardous
waste.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for an improved waste
collection and disposal system that may overcome one or more of the
problems discussed above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Among others, various aspects of the present invention may
include providing a fluid collection system that utilizes flexible
liners, a plurality of containers, back storage, specimen
collection containers, and/or automatic connection to a suction
source to reduce the volume of medical wastes, reduce the frequency
of disposal cycles, reduce risk of exposure to potentially
hazardous waste. Also, certain aspects of the present invention may
provide a waste disposal system, for use with the liquid collection
system, that may improve labor efficiency, safety, and convenience
of the medical personnel participating in a medical procedure.
[0009] While aspects and exemplary variations of the present
invention will be described in connection with a particular medical
waste collection and disposal process, aspects of the invention may
be used in other suitable medical and non-medical applications,
such as medical or non-medical cleaning devices and processes.
[0010] To attain the advantages and other features of aspects of
the present invention, as embodied and broadly described herein,
one exemplary aspect may provide a waste collection system having a
container having a top opening, a lid configured to close the top
opening, and the flexible liner attached to the lid. The liner may
be interposed between the lid and the container when the lid closes
the top opening. The liner and the lid may define a substantially
sealed interior space therebetween. The lid may include an access
port through which the interior space receives fluid. The flexible
liner may also be configured to collapse into a substantially
collapsed state as the fluid is removed from the interior
space.
[0011] Additional objects and advantages of aspects of the present
invention will be set forth in part in the description which
follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may
be learned by practice thereof. Such objects and advantages may be
realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations
particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
[0012] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following detailed description are exemplary
and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as
claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0013] A better understanding of the invention will be had upon
reference to the following description in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals represent
like parts.
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid collection system,
in accordance with exemplary aspects of the present invention,
illustrating various components.
[0015] FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary
embodiment of an interface board for the system shown in FIG.
1.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of various components
inside the liquid collection system of FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a liquid collection bag in a
collapsed state, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the liquid collection bag
during a liquid collection stage, in accordance with aspects of the
present invention.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary collection
system, illustrating a placement of the liquid collection bag into
a cavity of the liquid collection system, in accordance with
aspects of the present invention.
[0020] FIGS. 7(a)-(c) are perspective views of an exemplary
collection system, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a liquid collection
and disposal sequence, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0022] FIGS. 9 and 10 are schematic illustrations of a back-up
storage container, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0023] FIGS. 11-16 show exemplary variations of a back-up storage
container, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0024] FIGS. 17 and 18 are perspective views of a disposable,
separable tube junction, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a liquid collection bag, in
accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0026] FIGS. 20 and 21 are cross-sectional views of the liquid
collection bag shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, respectively.
[0027] FIGS. 22 and 23 are perspective views of a lid for a liquid
collection bag, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0028] FIG. 24 is a perspective cut-away view of the lid shown in
FIGS. 22 and 23.
[0029] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an exemplary lid and main
body in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0030] FIGS. 26 and 26(a) are a schematic illustrations of a fluid
trap usable in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 27 is a schematic illustration of a liquid disposal
process, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the liquid collection
system of FIG. 1, engaged with a liquid disposal station, in
accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0033] FIGS. 29-35 are schematic illustrations of a liquid
collection and disposal system, in accordance with aspects of the
present invention.
[0034] FIGS. 36-38 show exemplary features of a liquid collection
and disposal system in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0035] FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram of a liquid disposal station,
illustrating various components and operational characteristics
associated with a liquid collection system, in accordance with
aspects of the present invention.
[0036] FIGS. 40(a) and 40(b) depict aspects of an exemplary
disposal system, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0037] FIG. 40(c) depicts aspects of an exemplary disposal system,
in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 41(a-e) and 42(a-c) show an exemplary liquid collection
system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 43(a-c) show an exemplary liquid collection container,
in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0040] FIGS. 44-46 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection method
and system, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0041] FIGS. 47-49 illustrate exemplary variations of liquid
collection container, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0042] FIGS. 50-52 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection
system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0043] FIGS. 53-55 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection
system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0044] FIGS. 56 and 57 illustrate a liquid collection and disposal
process, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 58 illustrates a liquid collection and disposal
process, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 59 illustrates a liquid collection and disposal
process, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0047] FIGS. 60-62 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection
system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0048] FIGS. 63 and 64 illustrate a liquid collection and disposal
process, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0049] FIGS. 65-66 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection
system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0050] FIGS. 67-69 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection
system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0051] FIGS. 70-71 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection
system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0052] FIGS. 72-74 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection system
including a back-up container or specimen collector, in accordance
with aspects of the present invention.
[0053] FIG. 75 illustrates an exemplary liquid collection system,
in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0054] FIG. 76 illustrates an exemplary liquid collection
container, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0055] FIG. 77(a-c) illustrates an exemplary liquid collection and
disposal process, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0056] FIGS. 78-80 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection
system, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0057] FIG. 81 illustrates an exemplary liquid collection and
disposal process, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0058] FIGS. 82-92 illustrate exemplary variations of a liquid
collection container, including illustrations of methods of storage
and methods of use thereof, in accordance with aspects of the
present invention.
[0059] FIG. 93 is a perspective views illustrating an exemplary
engagement between a liquid disposal station and a lid of a liquid
collection system, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0060] FIGS. 94 and 95 are cross-sectional views illustrating the
exemplary engagement of the devices of FIG. 93, as located between
the disposal interface of the liquid disposal station and an
evacuation port of the lid.
[0061] FIG. 96 is a cross-sectional view of the disposal interface
and valve of FIGS. 94 and 95 in engagement with the evacuation
port, illustrating an exemplary flow of cleaning water for cleaning
the interface, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0062] FIG. 97 is a cross-sectional view of the interstitial
interface of FIG. 93 in engagement with an interstitial port of the
lid.
[0063] FIG. 98 is a block diagram of one variation of a liquid
collection system illustrating various components and their
operational characteristics thereof, in accordance with aspects of
the present invention.
[0064] FIGS. 99-101 illustrate exemplary implementations of a fluid
collection container.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0065] Reference will now be made in detail to aspects of the
present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the
accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference
numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same
or like parts.
[0066] FIGS. 1-3 show a portable fluid collection system 10 (herein
referred to interchangeably as a liquid collection system),
according to exemplary aspects of the present invention. The system
10 includes a main body, also interchangeably referred to herein as
a container receiving housing, 12 defining a cavity 15 for
receiving a fluid collection container 30 (herein referred to
interchangeably as a liquid collection container), shown in this
figure as an exemplary fluid collection bag 30 (herein referred to
interchangeably as a liquid collection bag). The liquid collection
container is also interchangeably referred to herein as a "liquid
collection bag." The system 10 may also include a handle 14 and
wheels 19 to facilitate transport of the system 10. The wheels 19
may be permanently fixed to the main body 12 or, alternatively, to
a support platform on which the main body 12 may be placed. The
system 10 may also include a cord reel 43 for storing a power
cable. Although the system 10 is illustrated as being mobile, the
system may be stationary. The system may be configured to
incorporate a disposal system, such as the disposal systems
described herein. The system 10 may also be stationary and
configured to function with a mobile disposal station.
[0067] The term "liquid," as used herein, does not merely refer to
a state of matter as defined in the thermodynamic and/or fluid
mechanics art. Instead, the term "liquid" also includes any solid
particles or gases that may incidentally flow with a liquid medium
(e.g., irrigation fluid or blood) or that may be intentionally
collected using a liquid medium. For example, when the fluid
collection system 10 is used in a surgical procedure, the term
"liquid" may refer to a combination of liquid medium (e.g.,
irrigation fluid, blood, and other bodily liquid from the patient)
and any solid particles including, but not limited to, resected
tissue removed from the patient's body or harmful particles mixed
with smoke or other particulates and/or gases such as may occur in
connection with laser, cauterization, and/or other medical
procedures. The term "fluid," as used herein may also refer to a
liquid medium, solid particles, smoke, gases, particulates, and
combinations thereof.
[0068] The main body 12 may also include a container holder for
receiving a back-up storage container 20, such as a suction
canister. The holder may include a foldable mounting bracket 18
having an opening sized and configured to receive the container 20.
When not in use, the bracket 18 may be folded substantially flush
with a side surface of the main body 12, so as not to interfere
with the normal use of the system 10. Alternatively, the holder may
include a planar support structure (e.g., a flat structure without
a hole) on which the container 20 may be rested. Alternatively
still, storage container 20 may be affixed to the main body 12 by a
sliding-type bracket, such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,470,324,
which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
As a further modification, vacuum pressure may be supplied to the
interior space of the container 20 directly through the bracket,
such as via a connector provided on the sidewall of the main body
12.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 3, the main body 12 may include one or more
storage units 16 for storing, for example, medical supplies
associated with the system 10. In some exemplary embodiments, the
storage units 16 may be configured to store multiple liquid
collection bags 30.
[0070] The system 10 may include a vacuum pump 44 for supplying a
suction force to the cavity 15 and to the liquid collection bag 30.
Although not shown in FIG. 3, the system 10 may include appropriate
suction conduits connecting the vacuum pump 44 to the cavity 15 and
the liquid collection bag 30. In certain exemplary embodiments,
instead of, or in addition to, providing the vacuum pump 44 in the
main body 12, an alternative suction source may be separately
supplied to the system 10. For example, suitable conduits, tubing,
fittings, connectors, and/or other hookups may be provided on the
main body 12 to allow connection to an external source of vacuum or
suction force, such as a wall vacuum in a hospital setting. The
availability of an alternative suction source may enable a
continuous liquid collection process even when the vacuum pump 44
malfunctions or becomes otherwise unavailable, for example.
[0071] In certain variations, the system 10 may include a filter
unit 70 (e.g., a HEPA filter) to prevent relatively large particles
from entering the vacuum pump 44.
[0072] The system 10 may include an interface board 13 for enabling
control of various features of the system 10. For example, as shown
in FIG. 2, the board 13 may include a selection button 56 for
controlling the power supplied to the system 10 and a selection
button or variable control knob 58 for regulating suction power.
The interface board 13 may also include one or more visual or
audible indicators that provide various information relating to
operational characteristics and/or status of the system 10. For
example, the interface board 13 may include one or more light
indicators 55, 52, 54 for indicating whether the system 10 is ready
for operation, whether the storage bag 30 is full (or filled to an
indicated level), or whether the filter 70 needs to be replaced.
The board 13 may also include a vacuum level indicator 59 to
provide visual feedback on the level of suction pressure as
controlled by the variable control knob 58. An audio source may be
provided to supply audio indicators alone or in conjunction with
one or more of the visual indicators.
[0073] The interface board may also include any one or more visual
and/or audible indicators that the liquid collected in the liquid
collection bag has reached a predetermined or selected level. The
visual indicator may include a light or other visual indicator on
the interface board. The visual indicator may also include a light
or other display for projection onto a wall or ceiling of the room
in which the system is located. For example, a visual indicator may
show that the bag is "almost full" when the liquid collected in the
bag reaches more than 80% of the capacity of the bag. This
indication may also or alternatively occur at 85%, 90%, or 95%, for
example. The interface board may include a selection button for
enabling/disabling the audible alarm. The interface board may
include additional visual indicators to signal that the filter
should be replaced, or that the bag is full.
[0074] The liquid collection bag 30 may be a disposable unit. As
shown in FIG. 1, the collection bag 30 may include a lid 31 and a
flexible liner 35 attached to or integrally formed with the lid 31,
such that the liner 35 and the lid 31 define a substantially sealed
interior space therebetween. The flexible liner 35 may attach to
the lid 31 via a snap ring, via adhesive, via hot melt, ultrasonic
weld, sealing such as heat sealing, etc.
[0075] The flexible liner 35 may comprise a sufficiently durable,
yet collapsible material, so that, upon applying a negative
pressure inside the interior space (e.g., during and/or after fluid
is removed from the interior space), the liner 35 can collapse into
a smaller volume. In some exemplary applications, the liner 35 may
additionally include one or more support structures that guide the
liner 35 to expand/extend and collapse/retract in a predetermined
manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the liner 35 may include a
plurality of support rings or a spiral shaped support 37 (e.g.,
ribs or spirals made of flexible wires), spaced apart from one
another along the length of the liner 35, so that the liner 35 may
expand and collapse in a bellow-like manner. The term collapse as
used herein, includes and is interchangeably referred to herein as
actions in which the sides of the liner 35 fall in, cave in,
retract, unextend, compress in, fold, or roll, among other things,
and/or which may optionally be forced or otherwise collapsed via a
scraping or other squeegee type apparatus. Alternatively, as seen
in FIG. 5, the liner 35 may not include such support rings 37. In
either case, in variations the liner 35 extends and retracts along
its longitudinal axis. Other variations may include other
directions in which the liner 35 extends and retracts.
[0076] The liquid collection bag 30 may also include a flexible
pathway located along the flexible liner 35 configured to
communicate a disposal device with contents that are collected at
the bottom of the flexible liner 35. This flexible pathway may
include a channel provided in the material of the liner, a flexible
tube attached to the side of the liner 35, etc. This flexible
pathway may be used during evacuation of the collection bag by
providing a straw-type communication with the lower contents of the
bag. In this embodiment, the waste collected in the liquid
collection bag may be evacuated from the lower portion of the bag
using the flexible pathway. As the bag is evacuated, the flexible
liner collapses in a controlled manner.
[0077] The flexible pathway may be used to evacuate the entire
contents of the liquid collection bag. The flexible pathway may
also be used in connection with another disposal source. For
example, during evacuation through a disposal port in the lid of
the liquid collection bag 30, the sides of the liner 35 may
collapse together preventing liquid in the lower portion of the
liner 35 from being evacuated. A disposal suction source may be
applied to the flexible pathway to access the trapped liquid in the
lower portion of the liner 35. This disposal suction source may be
applied at the same time as a suction source is applied through the
disposal port in the lid, or the suction source may be applied to
the flexible pathway at the end of an evacuation process, after a
suction source has been applied to the disposal port in the
lid.
[0078] At least the front portion of the main body 12 may comprise
a transparent or translucent material that allows visualization of
the liquid being collected in the collection bag 30. In some
exemplary implementations, the front portion of the main body 12,
the liner 35 and/or the cylindrical body 86, may include gradation
marks 36 to indicate the amount of liquid being collected in the
collection bag 30, as shown in FIG. 1.
[0079] The lid 31 may include one or more collection ports 32
configured to connect to various medical devices/instruments that
draw liquid into (or extract liquid from) the collection bag 30.
The collection ports 32 may have various different sizes and shapes
to accommodate various medical devices that may be used with the
system 10. The lid 31 may also include a vacuum port 33 (see FIG.
8) for connecting to the vacuum pump 44 to supply suction force to
the interior space of the collection bag 30.
[0080] In an exemplary implementation, as shown in FIGS. 4-6, the
lid 31 may also include a back-up vacuum port 34 for connecting to
a back-up storage container 20 in case the collection bag 30
becomes full or inoperable during a liquid collection process. The
back-up vacuum port 34 may be in communication with the vacuum port
33, such that the vacuum pressure supplied by the vacuum pump 44
can also supply vacuum pressure to the back-up storage container 20
via the backup vacuum port 34. Alternatively, the backup vacuum
port 34 may be in communication with an alternate source of vacuum
pressure (e.g., wall vacuum in a hospital setting). Alternatively
or additionally, the backup storage container 20 may be connected
to one or more of the collection ports 32 using, for example,
conventional tubing so as to supply vacuum pressure to the backup
storage container 20. In some alternative variations, the backup
vacuum port 34 may be located on the main body 12, rather than on
the lid 31, and connected either to the vacuum pump 44 or an
alternate source of suction force. The operation of the back-up
storage container 20 will be explained in more detail later with
reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.
[0081] The lid 31 may also include a discharge port 38 for
evacuating the collected liquid from the collection bag 30, such as
after a medical procedure is completed. In an alternative
variation, the lid 31 may not have any separate discharge port 38.
Instead, one or more of the collection ports 32 may be used to
empty the collection bag 30.
[0082] As mentioned above, the main body 12 defines a cavity 15
configured to receive the liquid collection bag 30. The cavity 15
may have various sizes and shapes. By way of example only, the
cavity 15 may have a volume of approximately 12 L, 15 L, 20 L, etc.
Alternatively, even very small volume bags 30 could be used. When
having a relatively large volume, the liquid collection bag 30 may
be used continuously over multiple medical procedures without
emptying the collection bag 30.
[0083] In certain variations, the cavity 15 may be provided with an
interface connector to facilitate engagement of the top portion of
the cavity 11 with the lid of a liquid collection bag in a manner
so as to enhance sealing therebetween. The interface connector may
comprise a flexible material, such as a polymer, elastomer, or
rubber. The interface connector may include an annular member
configured to removably engage with the top portion 11 of the
cavity 15. For example, the top portion 11 of the cylindrical body
15 may include a flange extending circumferentially along its
external side wall, and the interface connector may have a
corresponding snap-on structure configured to engage the
flange.
[0084] A lid may include a rigid rib configured to contact the seal
flap 8 when the lid is inserted into the top opening of the cavity
15. As the lid is inserted, the rigid rib may press down on a
surface of the seal flap, causing the seal flap to resiliently
deform from an unstressed state to a stressed state. At this
stressed state, the seal flap exerts a counteracting force against
the rigid rib 564, which enhances the sealing effect between the
lid and the receptacle. To further enhance the sealing effect, the
interface connector may include a pressure rib extending from its
top surface to contact with a bottom surface of the peripheral edge
of the lid.
[0085] The collection bag 30 may be delivered to the medical
facility in its fully-collapsed state, as shown in FIG. 4. The
collapsibility of the collection bag 30 into a smaller volume may
reduce not only the volume of the medical waste generated, but also
the storage area required to store the collection bags 30 prior to
their use. For example, in an exemplary implementation, instead of
storing the collection bags 30 in a separate storage location, they
may be stored inside the storage space 16 of the main body 12 for
convenient access. Alternatively, the exterior of the main body 12
may have one or more attachment members to which extra collection
bags 30 may be secured or otherwise attached.
[0086] During use, the liner 35 is extended to receive fluid, as
shown in FIG. 5. As will be explained in detail herein, while the
collection bag 30 is being emptied, the liner 35 may collapse again
into a state that is substantially similar to its original
fully-collapsed state. After an acceptable quantity of liquid is
removed from the collection bag 30, it may be removed for disposal
in its near-collapsed state.
[0087] To begin a liquid collection process, the collection bag 30
is positioned, in its collapsed state, on the mouth portion 11 of
the cavity 15, as shown in FIG. 6. An unused, collapsed liquid
collection bag may include a holding mechanism such as a strap or
band that assists in maintaining the liner portion of the
collection bag in a suitable collapsed position. This holding
mechanism assists in maintaining the flexible liner in a suitable
collapsed position and holds the flexible liner away from any seals
on the lid. This feature allows the bag to be easily positioned at
the mouth portion 11 of the cavity 15 and assists in preventing the
flexible liner from being pinched between a seal on the lid and the
mouth portion 11 of the cavity. The holding mechanism may be
configured of a breakable material that breaks, for example, when
suction pressure is applied to expand the bag into the interior of
the cavity, or as collected liquid expands the bag. Thus, a user
does not need to break the band prior to placing the collection bag
30 on the mouth portion 11 of the cavity 15. The holding mechanism
may comprise, for example, paper, plastic, or other suitable
material. Once positioned in place, the lid 31 of the collection
bag 30 may sealingly engage the mouth portion 11 of the cavity 15,
so as to form a substantially air-tight enclosure inside the cavity
15 and exterior to the collection bag 30. FIGS. 7(a-c) show various
features of an exemplary fluid collection system, in accordance
with aspects of the present invention.
[0088] FIG. 12 illustrates a fluid collection and disposal
sequence, according to exemplary aspects of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 8, the cavity 15 may include three vacuum
connectors: a first connector 62, a second connector 64, and a
third connector 66, each of which may be connected to a vacuum pump
44 positioned at the lower portion of the main body 12, or
alternatively may be connected to an external source of suction
pressure. As discussed above, a filter (e.g., filter 70 shown in
FIGS. 6-8) may be disposed between the vacuum pump 44 and at least
one of those three vacuum connectors. When the collection bag 30 is
placed in the cavity 15, the vacuum port 33 of the lid 31 may
automatically connect to the first connector 62, so as to supply
suction force to the interior space of the collection bag 30. This
suction force, in turn, is communicated to the collection ports 32.
Each of the vacuum connectors 62, 64, 66 may include a suitable
valve to selectively open and close communication with the vacuum
pump 44 or to an alternate source of vacuum pressure. In some
exemplary variations, the valve associated with the third connector
66 may comprise a three-way valve that can selectively establish
fluid communication between the cavity 15 (exterior to the bag 30)
and atmosphere. As will be explained in greater detail below, this
valve arrangement may allow the pressure inside the cavity 15 to
reach atmospheric pressure during an evacuation process, so as not
to interfere with the collapsing of the liner 35. Alternatively,
the second connector 64 may be open to vacuum pressure or may be
closed off entirely, so as to provide selective regulation of air
pressure within the cavity 15 exterior to the collection bag
30.
[0089] The collection bag 30 may also include various valves
associated with the collection ports 32 and the discharge port 38.
The collection bag 30 may also include an overflow valve associated
with the vacuum port 33. As will be discussed in greater detail
herein, the overflow valve may be configured to close a passageway
leading to the vacuum port 33 when the liquid level reaches the
elevational position of the overflow valve or when the liquid level
reaches some preselected cutoff elevational position spaced below
the overflow valve by some distance. In addition, a sensor may be
provided to detect when the level of the liquid has reached a
preselected position, upon which the sensor may then provide visual
and/or audio feedback to the operator to indicate that the level of
liquid within the collection bag 30 is nearing the overflow valve
position. These valves associated with the collection ports 32,
discharge port 38, and vacuum port 33 are schematically shown in
FIG. 12 with circles adjacent the corresponding ports. Solid
circles represent closed valves, and open circles represent open
valves.
[0090] Once the collection bag 30 is positioned within the cavity
15, the third connector 66 is opened to a suction force so as to be
in fluid and/or pressure communication with the interior space of
the cavity 15 external to the liner 35, thereby expanding the liner
35 into the cavity 15, as shown in FIG. 8(B). At this stage,
although the figure shows the collection ports 32 to be closed, at
least one of the collection ports 32 and the discharge port 38 may
be opened to allow air flow into the collection bag 30. This action
draws the liner 35 into the cavity 15 without distorting the shape
of the bag 30. Alternatively, some other vent may be provided, so
as to allow ambient air to enter the interior space of the liner 35
as the liner is drawn down into the cavity 15. To draw the liner 35
into the cavity, the liner 35 may include a sealing member 39
(e.g., one or more sealing rings) positioned adjacent its bottom
end.
[0091] In some exemplary variations, the sealing member may include
a more substantial structure, such as a molded plastic disc with
sealing rings, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
______, filed on Mar. 24, 2008, titled FLUID COLLECTION AND
DISPOSAL SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS. The sealing member 39 provides
a substantially fluid-tight seal between the liner 35 and the
surface defining the cavity 15. In an alternative implementation,
the liner 35 may not be drawn into the bottom portion of the cavity
15 prior to receiving the liquid. Instead, as the liquid is being
collected, the weight of the liquid may cause the liner 35 to
expand into the cavity 15. Although the second connector 64 is
shown in the figures to be located at a position vertically below
the lowermost end of the collection bag 30, as shown in FIG. 12, it
will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the
second connector 64 may selectively not be opened to atmosphere
until the lowermost end of the collection bag 30 is positioned
vertically below the elevational position of the second connector
64.
[0092] Once the liner 35 is drawn into the cavity 15, communication
with the first connector 62 is opened so as to supply suction force
into the interior space of the collection bag 30 and, in turn, via
the collection bag 30 to the collection ports 32. One or more
medical devices, such as a suction catheter or a patient tubing,
may be connected to the collection ports 32 to draw liquid into the
collection bag 30, as shown in FIG. 8(C). At this stage, the
collection ports 32 may open to allow liquid to flow through the
collection ports 32. During this liquid collection process, the
second connector 64 may be opened to counterbalance the vacuum
force applied to the interior space of the collection bag 30, so
that the liner 35 may substantially maintain its normal shape. That
is, opening the second connector 64 to a suction force thereby
prevents the liner 35 from being drawn back up towards the lid 31
under the influence of the negative pressure within the interior
space of the collection bag 30.
[0093] When the collection bag 30 is full and/or otherwise needs to
be emptied, the collection system 10 may be transported to a
disposal station to extract the collected liquid out of the
collection bag 30, as shown in FIG. 8(D). At this stage, the
collection ports 32 are closed, and the discharge port 38 is
opened. As mentioned above, as the collected liquid is drawn out of
the collection bag 30, the second connector 64 is closed and the
third connector 66 may communicate with atmosphere to increase the
pressure inside the cavity 15 to atmospheric pressure. Maintaining
the pressure inside the cavity 15 at atmospheric pressure may
provide a sufficient pressure difference between the cavity 15 and
the interior space of the collection bag 30, such that the liner 35
may collapse itself towards the lid 31 as the collected liquid is
drawn out of the collection bag 30.
[0094] After an acceptable quantity of the collected liquid is
removed from the collection bag 30, the liner 35 may return to a
collapsed state, as shown in FIG. 8(E). For practical purposes, it
may be sufficient for the liner 35 to compact itself enough so as
to make subsequent handling and disposal thereof more
efficient.
[0095] After the collected liquid is substantially removed from the
collection bag 30, the valves associated with the collection ports
32, the discharge port 38, and the overflow valve are closed
sufficiently to inhibit air from flowing into the interior space of
the collection bag 30. Minimizing the amount of air flow into the
collection bag 30 allows the collection bag 30 to remain in a
substantially collapsed state for disposal. That is, large
quantities of air will not be allowed to leak back into the
interior space of the bag 30 once the vacuum pressure is removed
therefrom. The used collection bag 30 may then be removed from the
cavity 15 and, for example, placed in a red bag for disposal.
Thereafter, a new collection bag 30 may be placed onto the cavity
15 and the fluid collection process described above may be repeated
for the next series of medical procedures.
[0096] An additional safety feature is provided through at least
one valve in the lid of the liquid collection bag 30.
Implementations of such a valve are shown, for example, as valve
226 in FIGS. 31-32 and 35. The valve may be an anti-drip check
valve, such as a diaphragm valve, a biased valve, a two-way valve,
such as any of a number of two-way valves manufactured by Liquid
Molding Systems, Inc. (LMS) of Midland, Mich., etc. that also
provides an access port to the collection bag. The valve provides a
connection port, wipes the connector as it is removed, thereby
preventing drips, and prevents liquid in the liquid collection
valve from leaking out of the collection bag. For example, after an
evacuation process, the valve prevents any remaining liquid in the
collection bag from exiting the bag. Thus, a technician or other
person involved in use of the system, including disposal of the
liquid collection bag, is further protected from contact with the
waste material collected in the liquid collection bag.
[0097] In certain circumstances, the collection bag 30 may become
full or temporarily inoperable during a liquid collection process.
To mitigate the negative effect this condition may have on a
medical procedure, a back-up storage container 26 may be provided
to temporarily store the liquid waste without interrupting the
medical procedure, as shown in FIG. 1. In the exemplary variation
shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the storage container 20 may have a
frustoconical, generally tapering cylindrical body 26 and a cap 25
configured to close the top opening of the body 26 in a leak-tight
manner. By way of example only, the storage container 20 may have a
volume of approximately 3 L. Of course, the storage container 20
may have any other suitable shapes and sizes. The body 26 of the
storage container 20 may be made of a material that is sufficiently
strong to withstand the negative pressure applied thereto. In
addition, the body 26 may comprise a sufficiently transparent
material to allow visualization of the liquid being collected in
the storage container 20.
[0098] To engage the storage container 20 with the main body 12,
the mounting bracket 18 may be extended laterally from the side
surface of the main body 18. As shown in FIG. 9, the cylindrical
body 26 of the storage container 20 may then be inserted into the
opening of the bracket 18 to retain the container 20 in an upright
position. In certain variations, cap 25 may include at least two
access ports: a vacuum port 23 and one or more collection ports 27.
As shown in FIG. 10, the vacuum port 23 may communicate with the
back-up vacuum port 34 of the collection bag 30 via a suitable
suction conduit 28, and the collection port 27 may communicate with
a proximal end of a suitable medical instrument attached to a
collection tube (for the sake of illustration, both the suction
instrument itself and the tubing used to connect to the suction
instrument will be referred to using reference numeral 29) that is
configured to draw liquid into the storage container 20. This
arrangement allows the back-up storage container 20 to function as
a separate, independent suction canister, thereby enabling
continuous operation of the system 10, even when the collection bag
30 is full or inoperable. Sufficient valving and connections may be
provided for either simultaneous operation of the main unit and the
storage container 20, or independent operations thereof.
[0099] Although FIGS. 9-10 show a variation with a vacuum port 34
in the lid that provides for communication with the back-up storage
container 26, in other variations, a vacuum port for the back up
storage container may be provided in other locations on the main
body. For example, FIGS. 1, 20, 25, and FIGS. 99-101 illustrate
variations of a collection container lid without a vacuum port for
a back up storage container. For example, the lid may include an
opening 546 configured to provide communication with an evacuation
source. The opening may include a breakable member 544, a two-way
check valve 542, and a pin 541, for example. The lid may also
include an interstitial opening 516 for communicating atmospheric
pressure, for example, with an interstitial space between the
cavity and liner, wherein the interstitial opening is closed by a
breakable member 514. The lid may also include a plurality of ports
532, each configured to communicate with a suction instrument,
through which fluid is drawn into the fluid collection container.
Each port may include a tethered cap 132b. The lid may include a
shelf 1910 located between the interior opening of the plurality of
ports and the opening communicating with the vacuum source to
divert collected fluids away from the vacuum source. The shelf may
be shaped to direct entering fluid toward the liner walls and away
from the shut off valve. The lid may also include a screen 1920
surrounding the opening to the evacuation opening. The screen may
be shaped to prevent solids collected in the fluid from exiting the
collection container during disposal. The lid may also include
additional features illustrated in FIGS. 99-101.
[0100] Among other attachment mechanisms and methods, the liner may
be attached to the lid via hot melt, for example at ridge 1930.
Prior to use, the liner may also include a breakable band
maintaining the liner in a collapsed position against the lid.
[0101] Instead of in the lid, a vacuum connection can be provided
for the back-up container, for example, as a port 26a on the side
of liquid collection system 10, as shown in FIG. 11(a). In this
variation, the communication between the suction source and the
back up storage container 26 bypasses the disposable container 30,
allowing the back up storage container 26 to directly connect to
the vacuum source. Port 26a may be capped or may include a valve,
and may be configured to accept tubing or other connecting devices.
Bracket 18, which is configured to hold the back up storage
container 26, in this exemplary implementation may also be
configured to control the opening/closing of port/valve 26a.
[0102] In addition to a separate vacuum port 34 or 26a, one of the
plurality of ports 32 may provide communication with a back-up
storage container 26. This enables the back-up container to be
further used as a trap or specimen collection container.
[0103] The back-up storage container may be configured to require a
manual connection before use. Alternatively, the back-up storage
may be configured to automatically collect overflow liquid from the
liquid collection bag once the liquid collection bag has reached
its capacity. This automatic arrangement allows the back-up storage
container to operate as an overflow canister rather than an
independent canister, as described above. The back-up storage
container 20 may also be configured to be attached to an
independent suction source. Although a back-up storage container
without a disposable bag is shown, other embodiments may
incorporate a disposable liquid collection bag similar to the bag
30 used inside the cavity 35 of device 10.
[0104] FIGS. 11-16 illustrate additional variations of a back-up
storage container. As shown in FIG. 11, the main body 12 of the
liquid collection may include a holder 18a integrally formed in the
side of the main body, rather than a bracket that folds out from
the side of the main body.
[0105] FIGS. 12-14 illustrate a back up container 26a configured to
attach over the liquid collection container 30. This variation
accepts the manifold from the liquid collection container 30. This
feature removes the need to unplug and replug tubing and suction
instruments. FIG. 13 illustrates an implementation in which the
main body 12 is configured to accept the back-up storage container
26a in a compartment. This variation is shown as a rectangular,
drawer type back-up container that has the appearance of a drawer
when placed in the compartment in the main body.
[0106] FIGS. 15-16 illustrate a main body configured to receive a
back up storage container 26b in a groove 2701 in the exterior of
the main body 12. The back up storage container 26b has a shape
corresponding to the groove 2701 in the main body, and is
configured to have a face flush with the external of the main body
12. The back up storage container communicates with at least one
port 27b configured to communicate with a suction instrument, for
example, via tubing 29b. This communication may be made via a lid
on the back-up storage container, or via a manifold attached to the
main body 12 In addition, the main body may include an inset space
2700 providing access to reach and replace the back-up storage
container 26b.
[0107] FIGS. 17-21 illustrate another exemplary variation of a
collection bag 130, according to one aspect of the present
invention. This variation is different from the previous
implementations shown in FIGS. 1 and 4-8, in that it includes a
removable hose junction 134 and a safety valve 142, 144 that
operates in connection with the hose junction 134. As shown in FIG.
17, the collection bag 130 includes a lid 131 and a liner 135
attached to the lid 131 to form a substantially sealed interior
space therebetween. The liner 135 is substantially similar to the
liner 35 of the variation described above and, therefore, a
detailed description thereof is omitted herein.
[0108] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the lid 131 includes a hose
junction 134 removably engageable with a slot 136, located at the
top of the lid 131. The hose junction 134 may include a latch 137
having a hook portion configured to releasably engage a
corresponding indentation 138 formed inside the slot 136. When the
hose junction 134 is pushed into the slot 136, the hook portion of
the latch 137 engages the indentation 138, shown in FIG. 21,
thereby securely attaching the hose junction 134 onto the lid 131.
The hook portion may be sufficiently flexible to allow slight
deflection when engaging the indentation 138. To remove the hose
junction 134, the latch 137 may be depressed, for example, so as to
release the hook portion from the indentation 138. Of course, other
conventional methods of removably securing the hose junction 134 to
the lid 131 may be employed. The lid 131 may also include a hand
grip 133 to facilitate handling of the collection bag 130, as shown
in FIG. 19.
[0109] The hose junction 134 carries one or more collection ports
132, each configured to mate with one or more suction devices by
way of suction tubings for the purpose of drawing liquid into the
collection bag 130. Because the hose junction 134 provides a
plurality of collection ports 132, a single collection bag 130 may
be used to collect liquid simultaneously from multiple suction
instruments or other devices (interchangeably referred to herein as
"suction instruments") by way of suction tubings for the purpose of
drawing liquid into the collection bag 130. Because the hose
junction 134 provides a plurality of collection ports 132, a single
collection bag 130 may be used to collect liquid simultaneously
from multiple suction instruments. As best shown in FIGS. 20 and
21, the hose junction 134 defines one or more fluid passageways 141
via which liquid is transported from the individual (or multiple)
suction instruments to the interior space of the collection bag
130. Thus, the hose junction 134 may function as an interface
between the collection bag 130 and the suction instruments and
tubings used to collect liquid in the collection bag 130. In
addition, the hose junction 134 may include suitable valves (e.g.,
duckbill valves, check valves, spring loaded plungers) to prevent,
or at least minimize, liquid dripping while the suction instruments
and tubings are disconnected from the collection bag 130 and
disposed of in a suitable disposal container (e.g., a red bag).
Thus, the hose junction 134 may reduce the risk of the clinicians'
exposure to potentially hazardous materials.
[0110] Each of the collection ports 132 may be covered with a flap
132a, which closes the respective collection port 132 when not in
use. The flaps 132a may be spring-loaded or otherwise biased such
that, when the suction devices and tubings are disconnected from
the collection ports 132, the flaps 132a may automatically close
the collection ports 132. The flaps 132a may include conventional
sealing members so as to define a substantially fluid-tight seal
when the flap 132a covers its respective collection port 132.
Alternatively, conventional caps or plugs may be frictionally
positioned relative to the open ends of the collection ports 132.
For example, as shown in FIG. 25, the collection ports 132 may
include a tethered cap 132b. Alternatively, flaps 132a may be
biased to remain in an open position until an operator manually
closes them, relative to the collection ports 132. Alternatively
still, collection ports 132 may be closed by other devices, such as
plugs that are sized and configured to frictionally engage the
respective ports 132, in which case, the plugs may be tethered to
any portion of the lid 131 (e.g. via a resilient, integrally-molded
connector).
[0111] The hose junction 134 may enable an easier, cleaner, and
faster disposal process since various suction instruments and
tubings can be disconnected at once by removing the hose junction
134. These instruments and tubings then can be disposed of with,
and while connected to, the hose junction 134. That is, multiple
instruments may be connected in parallel to one another and to the
hose junction 134, such that each instrument is connected to the
hose junction 134 with its own tubing. Detaching the hose junction
134 from the lid 131 then allows for all of the attached
instruments (and their individual connection tubes) to be disposed
of together without individually detaching each medical instrument
from the hose junction 134, such as would be required with
conventional suction/irrigation devices. Because the hose junction
134 and the lid 131 may include a non-drip or low-drip valve 142,
144 (as described in greater detail below), such an arrangement
minimizes the risk of drippage occurring when the hose junction is
disengaged and/or disassembled following a medical procedure.
[0112] The lid 131 may also include a non-drip valve 142, 144 to
prevent any dripping or splashing of liquid from the interior space
of the collection bag 130 when the hose junction 134 is removed
from the lid 131. For example, in the exemplary variation shown in
FIG. 20, the lid 131 may include two separate components: an upper
lid 131a and a lower lid 131b. As shown in FIG. 20, the upper lid
131a defines an inlet opening 139 located at the bottom of the slot
136. The opening 139 is configured to communicate with the
individual fluid passageways 141 of the collection ports 132
provided in the hose junction 134. In an alternative arrangement,
the inlet opening 139' may be formed on a side surface of the slot
136, as shown in FIG. 19. To facilitate a fluid-tight connection
between the fluid passageways 141 and the inlet opening 139, 139',
at least one of the fluid passageways 141 and the inlet opening
139, 139' may include a suitable sealing member, such as a sealing
ring to provide a sealing fit between the hose junction 134 and the
upper lid 131a.
[0113] The lower lid 131b defines a valve housing 145 configured to
receive the valve 142, 144. The housing 145 defines an opening
(e.g., located at its bottom end), which extends into and is open
to the interior space of the collection bag 130. The valve 142, 144
may be interposed between the upper lid 131a and the lower lid
131b. The valve 142, 144 may be in the form of a spring-loaded or
otherwise suitably biased plunger. The spring 144 may be seated in
the housing 145 and the plunger 142 depressed against the inlet
opening 139 to close the opening 139, for example. The hose
junction 134 may include a projection 143 such that, when the
projection 143 engages the slot 136, the projection 143 displaces
the plunger 142, thereby establishing fluid communication via
opening 139 between the fluid passageway 141 of the hose junction
134 and the interior space of the collection bag 130. Conversely,
when the hose junction 134 is removed from the slot 136, the
projection 143 releases the plunger 142, and the plunger 142
returns to its biased position to close opening 139. It should be
understood that, instead of the spring-loaded plunger 142, 144, any
other suitable valve mechanism may be employed. For example, the
positioning of the spring 142 and the plunger 144 may be inverted,
and these features placed within the tube junction 134, rather than
in the lid 131. Alternatively, a ball or flap may be substituted
for the plunger 144. In some exemplary implementations, elastomeric
or other self-sealing valves may be used.
[0114] The lid 131 may also include an overflow valve 146
positioned in a vacuum passageway 149 defined by the upper lid 131a
and the lower lid 131b, as shown in FIG. 21. In an exemplary
variation, the overflow valve 146 may comprise a floating check
valve or a hydrophilic valve, such as described below. As the
liquid level in the collection bag 130 reaches the elevational
position of the valve 146, the valve 146 rises to close the vacuum
passageway 149 thereby preventing the liquid from flowing into the
vacuum pump 44. In this manner, the overflow valve 146 may form
part of an auto shut-off feature that prevents filling of the bag
130 beyond its capacity or beyond reasonable safety limits.
Although FIG. 21 depicts the elevational position of the overflow
valve 146 as being vertically above the elevational position of the
valve 142, 144, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
that the overflow valve 146 may be placed at an elevational
position below that of the valve 142, 144.
[0115] According to other exemplary aspects of the present
invention, the lid 530 may be integrally formed (e.g., molded) as a
single piece, as shown in FIGS. 22-24. Forming the lid 530 as a
single piece may lower the manufacturing cost and also simplify the
fluid collection process by eliminating the need for a removable
hose junction 134, described above with reference to FIGS.
17-21.
[0116] The lid 530 illustrated in FIGS. 22-24 differs from the lids
31, 131 depicted in FIGS. 9-12 and 15-19, in that, among other
things, it includes a breakable closure member 544 (e.g., a foil,
plastic film, rubber) for closing an evacuation port 546 of the lid
530, as shown in FIG. 24. FIG. 25 shows a variation of the lid for
a liquid collection bag in which the exterior of the passageway
providing communication between the liquid collection bag 30 and
the suction source 559 is configured as a gripping member 501 on
the exterior of the disposable lid. This gripping member 501
provides an area removed from the collection ports 532 and from the
disposal port 546 by which a user can grip the disposable lid to
attach and remove the disposable lid. This gripping member 501 both
enhances the ease of installation and removal of the liquid
collection bag, while allowing the user to avoid contact with the
port areas through which waste material is collected and
evacuated.
[0117] Unlike the collection ports 32 shown in FIG. 4-8, and the
inlet openings 139, 139' of the embodiments shown in 18-19, which
are used to both collect and remove liquid for the collection bag
30, 130, the evacuation port 546 of FIGS. 22-24 is not used during
liquid collection operation and remains sealed by the closure
member 544 until the collection bag is full and/or otherwise needs
to be emptied. Structural features of the evacuation port 546 and
operational characteristics associated with a disposal station
(herein referred to interchangeably as a "docking station").
Although one variation described herein refers to a breakable
closure member, such as foil, other sealing mechanisms may be used
in place thereof. For example, a sliding or pivoting door may be
configured to rest over the evacuation port 546 when access thereto
is not required, and further configured to move away therefrom,
either manually or automatedly, when access to the evacuation port
546 is desired.
[0118] The lid 530 of FIGS. 22-24 also differs from the lids 30,
130 of FIGS. 4-8 and 17-21, in that it forms an interstitial
opening 516 in the lid 530 for supplying a source of suction
pressure (e.g., see the eductor 350 shown in FIGS. 33, 34, and 39)
to a space between the rigid receptacle defining a cavity and the
collection bag during an evacuation process. The source of suction
pressure may be used to equalize the pressures inside and outside
of the collection bag during an evacuation process, so that the
collection bag may substantially maintain its normal shape during
that process. The interstitial opening 516, like the evacuation
port 546, is closed off during the liquid collection process by a
breakable closure member 514.
[0119] In the suction pressure shown in FIG. 22-24, the lid 530
defines a vacuum passageway 550 having a U-shaped configuration.
The first end 551 communicates with an interior space of the
collection bag, and the second end 559 communicates with a vacuum
source. Near the first end 551 of the vacuum passageway 550, in one
exemplary suction pressure the lid 530 includes an overflow valve
having a floating ball 555 housed in a cage-like structure 558.
Other exemplary lids 530 may include a hydrophilic valve such as a
porous plastic valve (PPV), as shown and described in connection
with FIGS. 29-35. The PPV or other hydrophilic valve comprises a
hydrophilic material that blocks the pores of the material, for
example using surface tension, and thereby prevents liquid from
flowing past the material. A similar valve is shown as element 238
and described in connection with FIGS. 29-35. When the liquid level
in the collection bag reaches the elevational position of the
floating ball 555, the ball 555 rises along the longitudinal axis
of the cage-like structure 558, thereby closing the first end 551
of the vacuum passageway 550. The operational characteristics of
the floating ball 555 are substantially similar to those of the
overflow valve 146 of FIGS. 20 and 21 and, therefore, a detailed
description thereof is omitted herein.
[0120] FIG. 98 shows a block diagram of a liquid collection system
800, illustrating various components and corresponding operational
characteristics, according to certain exemplary aspects of the
present invention. Many features applicable to the illustrated
system 800 have been already described in detail above. The liquid
collection system 800 includes a controller 810 for controlling
operation of various components of the system 800. For example, the
controller 810 may include a motor controller 820 configured to
control the vacuum pump 860. The motor controller 820 may be
coupled to an interface board 830 configured to display the status
of the system 800 and/or provide an input signal to the motor
controller 820 for controlling various components of the system
800. For example, the interface board 830 may include a selection
button 834 for controlling the power supply to the system 800 and a
vacuum regulator 836 (e.g., variable control knob) for regulating
the vacuum level created by the vacuum pump 860. The interface
board 830 may also include one or more visual or audible indicators
833, 835, 837 for providing various information relating to
operational characteristics and/or status of the system 800. For
example, the one or more indicators may include a vacuum level
indicator 833 (e.g., a Light Emitting Diode "LED" light bar), light
indicators 835 for indicating whether the filter needs to be
replaced and/or whether the storage bag is almost full. Audible
alarms 837 may also provide audio warnings or indicators of the
status of the system 800. The audio warnings or indications
provided by the audible alarms 837 may be redundant to, or
independent from, those provided by the visual indicators 833, 835.
The interface board 830 may also include a switch 839 (e.g., toggle
key) for disabling the audible alarms 837. The interface board 830
may be powered by an isolated power supply 832 (e.g., a
battery).
[0121] The system 800 may include a filter unit 870 disposed
between the vacuum pump 860 and various components requiring
connection to the vacuum pump 860. As mentioned above, the filter
unit 870 may include a filter made of a hydrophobic material, so as
to function as a safety shutoff valve. For example, an overflow
shutoff valve 851 in the collection bag 855 may malfunction when
the liquid collection bag 855 is full, causing the liquid collected
in the bag 855 to flow into the filter unit 870 through the first
suction line 879a. Also, the liquid collection bag 855 may be
defective, causing leakage of liquid collected therein to flow into
the cavity 856. The leaked liquid in the cavity 856 may flow into
the filter unit 870 via the interstitial line 898, the base vacuum
line 899, and the second suction line 879b, for example. When the
liquid enters the filter unit 870 and makes contact with the
filter, the hydrophobic material blocks the pores of the filter,
for example using surface tension, and shuts off the filter unit
870, thereby preventing the liquid from flowing to the vacuum pump
860.
[0122] The system 800 may also include one or more additional
safety features. For example, the system 800 may include an
optional fluid trap 890 disposed between the filter unit 870 and
the interstitial and base lines 898, 899 shown in FIG. 98. The
system may also include a fluid trap or a vacuum check valve
located between the vacuum pump 860 and the HEPA housing 870. The
optional fluid trap 890 may operate under a similar principle to
that of the overflow valves 146, 555 disposed inside the liquid
collection bag. For example, FIGS. 26 and 26(a) illustrate
exemplary variations of a fluid trap 890, according to exemplary
aspects of the present invention. The fluid trap 890 may include a
container 895 defining an internal volume in fluid communication
with one or more inlets (e.g., the interstitial and base lines 898,
899 connected to the cavity 856) and an outlet (e.g., the second
suction line 879b leading to the filter unit 870). The container
895 may include a removable cap 897, to which the one or more
inlets and the outlet may be secured. Although the interstitial
line 898 is shown in the figure branch out from the base line 899,
the interstitial line 898 may alternately be separately and
independently connected to the container 895. The container 895 may
include a conduit 893 (e.g., a tube) extending from the outlet 879b
into the container 895, with a PPV or other hydrophilic valve 894'
or floating ball 894 (e.g., a polypropylene ball) being attached to
or otherwise interacting with the conduit 893. The floating ball
894 rises inside the conduit 893 as the liquid level inside the
container 895 rises. When the liquid level rises above the top of
the conduit 893, the floating ball 894 presses against the opening
892 defined by the top of the conduit 893, thereby shutting off the
outlet 879b leading to the filter unit 870. To ensure a tight seal
between the floating ball 894 and the opening 892, an O-ring 891
may be provided in the opening 892. The PPV or other hydrophilic
valve comprises a hydrophilic material that blocks the pores of the
material, for example using surface tension, and thereby prevents
liquid from flowing past the material. A similar valve is shown as
element 238 and described in connection with FIGS. 29-35. By way of
example only, the container 895 may have a volume of about 16
oz.
[0123] The system 800 may also include an emergency backup tube
879c, which is normally closed by an end cap or valve. The backup
tube 879c may be configured to connect to an alternate source of
suction force 840 (e.g., a wall vacuum), such that, when the vacuum
pump 860 becomes inoperable or otherwise unavailable, for example,
or when the filter unit 870 shuts off, the system 800 can continue
to operate with the alternate source of suction force, without
interrupting an on-going medical procedure. In addition, the backup
tube 879c may function as a vacuum supply line for a backup storage
container. For example, when the collection bag 855 becomes full or
temporarily inoperable during a liquid collection process, the
backup tube 879c may be connected to a backup storage container to
supply suction force to the storage container, so that the storage
container may function as a suction canister to temporarily store
the liquid being collecting during the liquid collection
process.
[0124] Once the collection bag 30, 130 is full or otherwise needs
to be emptied, the portable liquid collection system 10 may be
transported to a disposal station by, for example a clinician 170
to evacuate the collected liquid from the collection bag 30, 130,
as shown in FIG. 27. Although evacuation of the collection bag 30,
130 is not necessary for disposal thereof (e.g., a filled
collection bag 30, 130 may be disposed of with liquid still present
within the interior space thereof), one aspect of the present
invention allows for the evacuation of the collection bag 30, 130
to reduce the volume of red-bag waste produced by disposal
thereof.
[0125] In some exemplary variations, the disposal station may
comprise a docking station 180 having a fluid connector configured
to automatically (or manually) connect to the discharge port 38
(for the implementation shown in FIG. 1), the inlet port 139, 139'
(for the variations shown in FIGS. 17-21), or the evacuation port
546 (for the embodiment shown in FIGS. 22-24) of the collection bag
30, 130. For the variations shown in FIGS. 18-19, prior to engaging
the system 10 into the docking station 180, the hose junction 134
may be removed. The docking station 180 may include a suitable
indicator 185 for indicating that the collection system 10 is
properly engaged and/or the evacuation process is being
performed.
[0126] The interface board may include a light indicating a
connection to a power source and a visual indication that the
disposal station is in use. The interface board may also include a
switch that allows termination of the evacuation cycle. The button
may stop the cycle completely or only temporarily.
[0127] To evacuate the collected liquid from the collection bag 30,
130, in some exemplary embodiments, the docking station 180 may
utilize an eductor of the type described in U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. 2005/0183780, entitled "Method and Apparatus for
the Disposal of Waste Fluids" and published on Aug. 25, 2005, the
entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Alternatively or additionally, the disposal station may include a
movable connector (not shown) that can be manually connected to the
collection bag 30, 130 to evacuate the collected liquid
therefrom.
[0128] FIGS. 29-35 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a
liquid collection and disposal system. As shown in FIG. 29, the
system includes a liquid collection bag 230 and a rigid container
215 configured to receive the collection bag 230. The collection
bag 230 may include a lid 231 and a collapsible liner 235 attached
to the inner surface of the lid 231 to form a substantially sealed
interior space therebetween. When the collection bag 230 is placed
on the top of the rigid container 215, the lid 231 may
substantially seal the opening of the container 215. As shown in
FIG. 29, the collection bag 230 may include a suction conduit 233
for connecting the interior space of the collection bag 230 to a
suitable suction source (e.g., vacuum pump 44 shown in FIG. 1). The
suction conduit 233 may be arranged such that, when the collection
bag 230 is placed on the container 215, the suction conduit 233
automatically connects to the suction source, although the suction
source may be configured to be manually connected to the suction
conduit 215 by the operator.
[0129] The collection bag 230 may include a suction shutoff device
238 positioned at one end of the suction conduit 233. As will be
described in more detail, the shutoff device 238 may close the
suction conduit 233 when the liquid level inside the collection bag
235 reaches a predetermined level, so as to prevent the collected
liquid from flowing into the suction source. In one exemplary
embodiment, the shutoff device 238 may comprise a filter that
prevents liquid from passing therethrough, which may be, for
example, similar to the device 894' shown in FIG. 26(a). The filter
may be positioned at a proximal end of the suction conduit 233,
located inside the collection bag 230, such that, when the liquid
level in the collection bag 230 rises to the filter and submerges
the filter, the filter may close the suction conduit 233, thereby
shutting off the supply of suction force and terminating the liquid
collection process. The shutoff device 238 may include a
hydrophilic material, which may swell and seal the suction conduit
233 upon contact with liquid. The hydrophilic material may be
positioned inside a sleeve structure. This structure not only
protects the shut off device from prematurely coming in contact
with fluid, but also increases the rate of shut off when the liquid
level raises to come in contact with the bottom of the sleeve. In
certain implementations, the shutoff device may comprise a buoyant
article (which may be coated or otherwise covered with a
hydrophilic material) disposed within a cage extending from the
lid, such that the buoyant article may close off the suction
conduit when the level of the liquid rises beyond an acceptable
elevational position.
[0130] The lid 231 may define an access port 220 normally closed by
a flexible valve 226, such as an elastic slit valve. As will be
described in more detail later, the access port 220 may be
configured to receive a hose junction 240 and an evacuation
connector 340. When the hose junction 240 or the evacuation
connector 340 is inserted into the access port 220, the flexible
valve 226 may be deflected to open the access port 220. The access
port 220 may also include an actuation rod or pin 224 to open a
valve associated with the hose junction 240 and/or the evacuation
connector 340, which will also be described in more detail
herein.
[0131] The rigid container 215 may have an elongate tubular shape.
The rigid container 215 may constitute the cavity 15 of the liquid
collection system 10 described above. The container 215 may include
a piston 280 (much like a syringe) slidably positioned inside the
container 215. The piston 280 may include one or more sealing
members, such as O-rings 283 attached to an outer peripheral edge
of the piston 280. Thus, the piston 280 may separate the internal
space of the container 215 into an upper space 281 and a lower
space 289. The piston 280 may also include a piston scraper 285 to
prevent the liner 235 from being pinched between the inner wall of
the container 215 and the piston 280 during a piston movement. The
O-rings 283 and the piston scraper 285 may be coated with a
suitable material (e.g., parylene) to enhance lubricity and/or
durability.
[0132] The piston 280 may include a through-hole 284 in the middle
portion, which enables a vacuum communication between the upper
space 281 and the lower space 289. The through-hole 284 thus
supplies a vacuum force into the upper space 281, which may
counterbalance vacuum force applied inside the interior space of
the collection bag 230 to prevent collapse of the liner 235 during
a liquid collection stage. The piston 280 may include a check valve
286 positioned inside the through-hole 284. The check valve 286 is
biased against an opening of the through-hole 284 by a spring 288
to normally close the through-hole 284. In some exemplary
variations, the check valve 286 may be disposed in a modular check
valve insert, which may be inserted into the through-hole 284.
[0133] The container 215 may also include a stopper 290 that
interacts with the piston scraper 285 near the top of the container
215, as shown in FIG. 36. In addition to stopper 290, the container
may further include a pinch prevention mechanism 291 that prevents
the collection bag from being caught between the piston scraper 285
and stopper 290 as the piston moves upward during evacuation of the
collection bag. One variation of the pinch prevention mechanism may
include a flexible collar 291 located between the inner walls of
the container 215. For example, if the container is cylindrical,
the flexible collar may include a flexible cylindrically shaped
collar. The flexible collar 291 may include grooves 292, as shown
in FIG. 36, and may comprise a flexible material such as plastic or
rubber. As the piston 280 moves up in the container, the flexible
collar 291 flexes toward the interior of the container and
compressibly pushes the collection bag 235 away from the walls of
the container, while closing the grooves therein as shown in FIG.
37. This prevents the collection bag from being caught between the
piston scraper 285 and the stopper 290, as the bag collapses during
disposal.
[0134] As shown in FIG. 29, the container 215 may include an
optional three-way valve 265 to selectively connect the lower space
289 to either a vacuum source or atmosphere. The container 215 may
also be configured without the optional three-way valve, for
example when the vacuum source is vented. For example, the
three-way valve 265 may have three connections: a first connection
262 communicating with the lower space 289; a second connection 264
communicating with atmosphere; and a third connection 268
communicating with a suction source. The operational
characteristics of the three-way valve 265 will be described in
detail with reference to FIGS. 30-34. The container 215 may also
include a stopper 270 near its bottom, as shown in FIG. 29, to
prevent the piston 280 from descending below the level of the first
connection 262. Alternately, valve 265 may be eliminated, for
example, when reverse venting (to atmosphere) might be accomplished
naturally, for example, when the pump (not shown) is turned
off.
[0135] As shown in FIG. 29, the piston 280 is initially positioned
near the top of the container 215 to receive the collection bag
230. After the collection bag 230 is emplaced, in its collapsed
state, within the container 215, the hose junction 240 may be
inserted into the access port 220, as shown in FIG. 30. The hose
junction 240 is similar to the hose junction 134 shown in FIGS. 17,
18, 20, and 21, except that it includes a normally-closed valve 249
(e.g., a duckbill valve, a check valve, a spring-loaded valve, a
poppet valve) to open and close its fluid passageway 245. The valve
249 may be opened from its normally-closed position by the actuator
pin 224 positioned inside the access port 220. That is, upon
insertion into the access port 220, the actuator pin 224 pushes the
valve 249 so as to open the passageway 245. The hose junction 240
may be inserted in the access port 220 before the collection bag
230 is placed onto the container 215.
[0136] Once the collection bag 230 is placed in the container 215
and the hose junction 240 is securely positioned in the access port
220 of the collection bag 230, the three-way valve 265 may be
rotated to align the first connection 262 with the third connection
268 to communicate such pressure within the lower space 289. The
suction pressure applied to the lower space 289 draws the piston
280 down into the container 215, which in turn draws the liner 235
into the cavity, as shown FIG. 31. In one variation, the interior
space of the liner 235 is open to atmosphere (or is under some
pressure greater than the suction pressure supplied to the lower
space 289), so as to facilitate the downward movement of the piston
280. The suction force applied to the lower space 289 may be
greater than the opening pressure of the check valve 286, so as to
open the through-hole 284 and evacuate any excess air in the upper
space 281, which may enhance the seal between the lid 231 and the
container 215. However, it may be preferred for the check valve 286
to remain in a closed position during downward movement of the
piston 280, so as to further enhance the pressure differential
between the lower space 289 and the upper space 281, thereby
further facilitating the downward movement of the piston 280 within
the cavity. The sensitivity of the check valve 286 may be selected
in view of the suction pressure supplied to the lower space 289,
any suction pressure supplied to the upper space 281 and the
atmospheric (or positive) pressure supplied to the interior space
of the liner 235. In the selection of the check valve sensitivity,
an efficient pressure differential and/or balance on both sides of
the piston 280 can be utilized to facilitate downward movement
thereof, as described further herein.
[0137] Thereafter, liquid may be drawn into the collection bag 230,
as shown in FIG. 31. The liquid collection process is substantially
similar to the process described above with reference to FIG. 8
and, therefore, a detailed description thereof is omitted at this
point. As mentioned above, during the liquid collection process,
the continuously applied suction force in the lower space 289 may
cause the check valve 286 to open, so as to communicate the suction
pressure with the upper space 281, which may counterbalance the
suction force applied inside the interior space of the collection
bag 230 to prevent or reduce collapse or deformation of the liner
235 during the liquid collection process.
[0138] The liquid collection process may thereafter end because the
medical procedure is completed, for example. This action may also
end as a result of suction pressure shutoff, which may occur, for
example, when the liquid level rises to the level of the shutoff
device 238. For example, when the liquid level reaches the level of
the shutoff device 238, the shutoff device 238 may automatically
shut off the conduit 233 to stop the liquid collection process, as
shown in FIG. 32. Should the liquid collection process be
continued, a back-up storage container 20, for example, described
above with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 may be used to continue the
process.
[0139] To empty the collection bag 230, the container 215 carrying
the collection bag 230 may be transported to a disposal station 300
(e.g., a pump assembly), as shown in FIG. 33. Prior to connecting
the collection bag 230 to the disposal station 300, the hose
junction 240 carrying one or more medical devices may be removed
and placed in a red bag for disposal, for example. The anti-drip
valve 249 of the hose junction 240 closes the fluid passageway 245
upon removal from the access port 220 (e.g., the actuator pin 224
no longer holds the valve 249 open). Also, upon removal of the hose
junction 240, the flexible valve 226 may return to its original
shape to close the access port 220. The closure of the access port
220 may keep the collected liquid in the collection bag 230 for
transport to the disposal station. The flexible valve 226 may also
provide a wiping function on the hose junction 240 during removal
from the access port 220. This wiping function may aid in making
the hose junction 240 drip free during its removal and
disposal.
[0140] As shown in FIG. 33, the disposal station 300 may include an
eductor 350 that provides a source of vacuum sufficient to draw the
collected liquid out of the collection bag 230. In addition to the
eductor 350 depicted in FIG. 33, other vacuum or suction sources
may be used to draw the fluid out of the collection bag 230 to the
disposal station. For example, a pump such as a rotary pump or
piston pump or other suitable device (e.g., a flexible membrane
device), may be used to evacuate the contents of the collection bag
230. To connect the collection bag 230 to the disposal station 300,
the disposal connector 340 may be inserted into the access port 220
of the collection bag 230 in a similar manner to how the hose
junction 240 is inserted into the access port 220. Similar to the
hose junction 240, the disposal connector 340 may include a
drip-free connector valve 345, which is biased to close the distal
end of the disposal connector 340. Inserting the disposal connector
340 may cause the connector valve 345 to open, so as to establish
fluid communication between the access port 220 and the eductor
350.
[0141] The eductor 350 may be positioned between a source of water
or other rinse fluid 305 and a sanitary sewer 390 to create a
pumping force sufficient to draw liquid out of the collection bag
230. Rinse fluid may consist of water, another wash fluid (e.g. a
detergent or other fluid), or a mixture of water and another wash
fluid. As noted above, the term "fluid" may refer to a combination
of a liquid medium along with solid particles, gases and/or
particulates. As shown in FIG. 33, the eductor 350 may be connected
to the source of water 305 and the sewer 390 via a water conduit
315 and a discharge conduit 380, respectively. The water conduit
315 may include a water valve 310, which may be controlled manually
or by other control, such as electric switch. In addition, a
venturi 360 may be suitably positioned, (e.g., adjacent the eductor
350 in the discharge conduit 380) so as to create a greater pumping
force. The disposal connector 340 may be then connected to the
eductor 350 via an evacuation conduit 335.
[0142] In operation, as shown in FIG. 34, opening the water valve
310 causes the water from the source of water 305 to flow into the
eductor 350 to create a pumping force in the eductor 350. This
pumping force causes the liner 235 to collapse and then liquid
collected in the collection bag 230 to flow into the eductor 350
and then into the sanitary sewer 390 via the discharge conduit 380.
To control the collapse geometry of the liner 235 in a manner that
does not occlude and prevent the desired discharge liquid flow,
check valve 286 may be set in a closed position. The closed
position of the check valve 286 prevents air from flowing into the
space between the liner 235 and the container 215. Because of the
relatively limited air in the space outside of the liner 235, the
walls of the liner 235 will not be pulled away from the walls of
container 215 and therefore will not close off the passage of
liquid within the liner 235. At this stage, the three-way valve 265
may be aligned to communicate the lower space 289 with atmosphere
via the first and second connections 262, 264, as shown in FIG. 34.
This selection allows the pressure inside the lower space 289 to
reach atmospheric pressure during the evacuation process, so as not
to interfere with the collapse of the liner 235. For example,
maintaining the pressure in the lower space 289 at atmospheric
pressure allows the piston 280 to rise during the evacuation
process, due to a differential pressure between the upper space 281
(which is subject to a suction pressure) and the lower space 289
(which is open to atmosphere). Because the piston 280 moves up as
the liner 235 collapses, the collapse of the liner 235 takes place
primarily near the piston 280, and occlusion of the sidewalls of
the liner 235 during the evacuation process may be effectively
prevented.
[0143] The disposal station 300 may include a pipe conduit 325,
that branch from the water conduit 315 to supply cleaning water to
the disposal connector 340. The pipe conduit 325 may include a
valve 320 (e.g., an electric solenoid valve, a ball valve) that
controls the water flow into the interior of the disposal connector
340. After liquid is removed from the collection bag 230, clean
water from the source of water 305 may flow into the interior of
the disposal-connector 340, which can be cycled on and off one or
more times for rinsing or flushing purposes, and as preventive
maintenance for the disposal connector 340. The operation may occur
before the discharge connector 340 is removed from the access port
220, for example, so that cleaning water may flow to the exterior
of discharge connector 340 and then be suctioned back through the
interior of discharge connector by the suction of the eductor.
[0144] Thus, the disposal connector 340 may communicate with two
channels: one channel that supplies clean, rinse fluid and a second
channel that evacuates contaminated fluid. The second channel, for
example, may be situated within the first channel, as shown in FIG.
32 and as similarly shown and described with respect to FIG. 51. A
valve, such as a ball valve, is located within one of the channels.
After the collected contents of a liquid collection container have
been evacuated, rinse fluid flows from the first channel into and
around the valve, flushing the entire surface of the valve. If the
valve is a ball valve, the rinse fluid flows in a cylindrical path
around the valve housing so that the valve is completely rinsed
with the rinse fluid. Via the valve, the rinse fluid enters the
second channel and is evacuated, similar to the contents of the
liquid collection container. Thus, the second channel is also
flushed with rinse fluid. This approach allows the disposal
connector to automatically clean both itself and the connection
with the liquid collection container. Among other things, this
automatic rinse feature prevents a user from coming into contact
with liquid collected in a medical procedure.
[0145] According to one aspect of the present invention, conduit
325 (which supplies cleaning water to the disposal connector 340)
is in fluid communication with discharge conduit 380, which is used
to "charge" the eductor 350, and to thereby suction fluid from the
collection bag 30 (as described above). In this manner, cleaning
fluid will not be supplied to the disposal connection 340 unless
the eductor is suctioning fluid from the collection bag 30, thereby
preventing unintended flooding of the collection bag 30 with
cleaning water.
[0146] Once an acceptable quantity of the liquid is removed from
the collection bag 230, and the collection bag 230 is collapsed,
the discharge connector 340 is removed from the access port 220.
The flexible valve 226 then closes the access port 220, so as to
seal the collection bag 230 and to maintain the bag 230 in the
collapsed state. The collection bag 230 is then removed from the
container 215 and placed in a red bag for disposal, for example. A
new collection bag 230' may be placed onto the container 215 for
the next series of medical procedures, as shown in FIG. 35.
[0147] Access ports may include a normally-closed, flexible slit
valve, for example, a flexible, anti-drip, check valve. This valve
may be made of a flexible material such as plastic, rubber, or
other suitable material. In addition, to serving as an opening for
a hose junction, the valve acts as a normally closed two-way check
valve. The valve resists back pressure such that it assists in
maintaining vacuum pressure within the liquid collection bag. This
approach assists in maintaining an unused bag and a previously
used, evacuated bag in a substantially collapsed state. This
approach further provides a safety feature by preventing waste in
the collection bag from dripping from or exiting the bag. Thus, an
evacuated collection bag will not leak waste if it is turned upside
down or squeezed.
[0148] The piston 580 may also include one or more sealing members,
such as O-rings 588 attached to an outer peripheral edge of the
main body 585. The main body 585 may form one or more
circumferential grooves to receive the sealing members. The piston
580 may also include a scraper ring 583 configured to prevent a
liner of a liquid collection bag from being pinched between the
inner wall of the cavity and the piston 580.
[0149] FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram of a liquid disposal station
900, illustrating various components and their operational
characteristics associated with a liquid collection system 10. When
the liquid collection bag becomes full or otherwise needs to be
emptied, the portable liquid collection system 10 is transported to
the disposal station 900, similarly to as described above with
reference to FIG. 27. The disposal station 900 may include a
reference structure 987 and a latching member 980 fixed to the
reference structure 987 for engaging a corresponding latching
member 990 of the liquid collection system 10. Among other things,
this approach allows the liquid collection system 10 to be securely
and accurately positioned at a predetermined location relative to
the disposal station 900.
[0150] In certain exemplary variations, the process for evacuating
liquid from the liquid collection system 10 may be automatically
initiated upon engagement between the attachment mechanism and the
main body of the liquid collection system 10, although the system
may be configured such that an operator is required to manually
initiate the evacuation process after the system 10 has been
operatively engaged with the disposal station 900.
[0151] The disposal station 900 may include a sensor unit 995
affixed to, for example, the reference structure 987 and configured
to detect the presence of a liquid collection system 10 in the
vicinity of the disposal station 900. The disposal station 900 may
be configured such that the presence of a liquid collection system
10 in the disposal station 900 is confirmed by the sensor unit 995
prior to initiation of a liquid evacuation process. Thus, the
sensor unit 995 may be used as a safety measure against a false
initiation of a liquid evacuation process in the disposal station
900. Alternatively, detection may be electromechanically
accomplished.
[0152] When the liquid collection system 10 is securely positioned
in the disposal station, an evacuation interface 960 and an
interstitial interface 970 may align with the evacuation port 540'
and the interstitial port 516', respectively, of the liquid
collection system 10, as shown in FIG. 41. Use of an interstitial
hose is optional. The disposal station may also be configured to
function without any interstitial connection or interstitial
suction. In an exemplary implementation, the interstitial interface
970 may be connected to the evacuation interface 960 via a rigid
support 965. The evacuation interface 960 and the interstitial
interface 970 may be connected to a suitable draining system for
evacuating the liquid from the liquid collection system. In some
exemplary variations, the draining system for the disposal station
may include an eductor 350 that provides a source of suction
pressure sufficient to draw the collected liquid out of the
collection bag of a liquid collection system 10, as shown in FIG.
39. The eductor 350 and the associated flow connections for
evacuating the collected liquid may operate similarly to those
described above with reference to FIGS. 33 and 34, for example.
[0153] The flow connection between the eductor 350 and the liquid
collection bag 30 in the disposal station may differ from that
shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, in that this variation includes a side
conduit 938 branching from the evacuation conduit 335 for supplying
suction force to the interstitial interface 970. The interstitial
interface 970 is configured to connect to an interstitial port 516'
formed on a lid 530' of a liquid collection bag 30, as shown in
FIGS. 41 and 45. As noted above, the interstitial interface is
optional, and the disposal system may be configured to function
without any vacuum pressure from an interstitial vacuum. For
example, when the interstitial interface 970 is inserted into the
interstitial port 516', the passageway 917 of the interstitial
interface 970 may communicate with the interstitial space, as shown
in FIG. 45. A suitable sealing member 918 (e.g., an O-ring) may be
provided to seal the gap between an interior surface of the
interstitial port 516' and an exterior surface of the interstitial
interface 970. As mentioned above with reference to FIGS. 22-24,
the interstitial port 516' of the lid 530' may be in fluid
communication with an interstitial space within a cavity external
to a liquid collection bag, and the supply of a suction force to
the interstitial space may equalize the pressure inside and outside
of the collection bag during an evacuation process, so that the
collection bag may remain substantially uncollapsed during the
evacuation process. Providing the interstitial port 516' in the lid
530' may eliminate the need for a power supply in the liquid
collection system 10 during the evacuation process, which may
otherwise be required to supply suction source to the interstitial
space, similarly to the function of the second vacuum connector 64
in FIG. 8.
[0154] In other variations, a seal between the lid of the liquid
collection bag and the top 11 of cavity 15 and at least seal
between the piston and the inner walls of the cavity maintain
vacuum pressure on the outside of the collection bag by preventing
air from entering the interstitial space so that the sides of the
bag do not collapse during an evacuation process. By limiting air
flow into the interstitial space between the bag and the inner
walls of the cavity, communication between a suction source and the
interstitial space is unnecessary/optional during an evacuation
process. In addition, air flow into the interstitial space may be
controlled via the check valve 575 in the piston. These seals
assist in equalizing the pressure inside and outside of the
collection bag during a collection process and continue to maintain
that pressure up through at least part of an evacuation
process.
[0155] In exemplary variations, air flow may be allowed into the
interstitial space near the end of an evacuation process in order
to fully collapse the liquid collection bag 30 by allowing
communication between the atmosphere and interstitial space. For
example, air may be allowed into the interstitial space at a
predetermined time in the disposal cycle, such as during
approximately the last 30 seconds of an evacuation cycle. In an
exemplary implementation, the interstitial space may be accessed by
establishing communication with the interstitial port 516' and the
atmosphere. For example, the disposal station may pierce the
breakable piece in the interstitial port 516' in order to allow air
to flow into the interstitial space near the end of the evacuation
process. The docking station may include a timer that times the
evacuation process and establishes communication with the
interstitial space at a predetermined amount of time before the end
of the evacuation cycle.
[0156] In other variations, a valve, such as a solenoid valve or
electric valve, may be employed to provide air flow into the
interstitial space near the end of an evacuation process. However,
using the docking station to establish atmospheric communication
with the interstitial space enables a disposal cycle to run on an
unpowered liquid collection container and mobile unit.
[0157] According to certain exemplary embodiments, the disposal
station may include a linear slide 952, along which the evacuation
interface 960 and the interstitial interface 970 may slidably
engage the evacuation port 540' and the interstitial port 516',
respectively. Movement of the evacuation interface 960 and the
interstitial interface 970 relative to the linear slide 952 may be
controlled, for example, pneumatically by a compressor 958 or other
suitable movement mechanism, a flow control pilot 956, and a flow
control valve 954 (e.g., a two-way solenoid valve), similarly to as
shown and described in FIG. 39. The flow control valve 954 may be
configured to maintain pressure when power is lost. Alternatively,
interface 960 and interface 970 may be controlled, either
automatically or manually, by any other linear actuation
device.
[0158] As best shown in FIG. 41, the evacuation port 540' and the
interstitial port 516' may remain closed by breakable closure
members 544', 514' during the liquid collection process. These
breakable closure members 544', 514' may be pierced or broken when
the evacuation interface 960 and the interstitial interface 970
engage the evacuation port 540' and the interstitial port 516'. To
facilitate such piercing, the evacuation interface 960 and the
interstitial interface 970 may each include a sharp distal edge
966, 915.
[0159] As shown in FIG. 94, the evacuation interface 960 may
include a normally-closed valve 962, 963 (e.g., a duckbill valve, a
check valve, a spring-loaded valve, a poppet valve) to open and
close its passageway. In the exemplary variation shown in FIGS. 94,
and 95, the valve includes a ball 963 biased against a distal end
of the interface 960 by a spring 962. The valve 962, 963 may be
opened from its normally-closed position by an actuation rod or pin
541' positioned inside the evacuation port 540', for example.
[0160] Thus, upon insertion of the valve 962, 963 into the
evacuation port 540', the actuator pin 541' engages the valve
962,963 so as to open the passageway of the evacuation interface
960, as shown in FIG. 95. The evacuation port 540' may include a
normally-closed, flexible valve 542, as shown in FIG. 96. The valve
542 may be similar to the slit valve 426 described above and,
therefore, further detailed description thereof is omitted at this
point. When the evacuation interface 960 is inserted into the
evacuation port 540', the valve 542 may be deflected to open the
evacuation port 540', for example.
[0161] FIG. 96 is a cross-sectional view of the evacuation hose
junction 960 in engagement with the evacuation port 540',
illustrating an exemplary flow of cleaning water for cleaning the
interface 960. As shown in FIG. 39, the disposal station 900 may
include a pipe conduit 325, branching from the water conduit 315,
to supply cleaning water or other cleaning substance to the
evacuation interface 760. After liquid is removed from a collection
bag, clean water or other substance from the pipe conduit 325 may
flow into the interior of the evacuation interface 760 through a
cleaning chamber 974, which can be cycled on and off one or more
times to rinse or flush it off as a preventive maintenance for the
evacuation interface 760. The cleaning operation may be performed
before the evacuation interface 760 is removed from the evacuation
port 540' so that cleaning substance may flow to the exterior of
the evacuation interface 760 and then be suctioned back through the
interior of the evacuation interface 760, thereby flushing any
residual fluid or other particles from the components of the
interior of the interface 760.
[0162] The disposal station 900 may include an interface board 993
for indicating the status of the disposal station 900 and/or for
enabling control of various features of the disposal station 900.
The interface board 993 may include a stop button for stopping a
liquid evacuation process. The interface board 993 may also include
one or more visual or audible indicators that provide various
information relating to its operational characteristics and/or
status, such as, for example, whether the station is being
used.
[0163] FIGS. 41-43 illustrate an exemplary implementation of a
liquid collection system 1810 having a main body 1812 including a
cavity 1815 configured to receive a liquid collection container
having a lid 1831 and a flexible liner 1835. FIGS. 41b-d illustrate
that the cavity 1815 and liquid collection container may be
configured in various shapes and may be received in the main body
at various locations. For example, FIG. 41b illustrates a round
liquid collection container having a round lid 1831b. FIG. 41c
illustrates a main body having the cavity 1815e formed on a side of
the main body 1812.
[0164] FIG. 42(a-c) illustrates a variation in which the liquid
collection system may further include a second cavity 1840
configured to receive liquid via the liquid collection container
1830. In FIG. 42, the second cavity is larger than the liquid
collection container 1830.
[0165] FIG. 43(a-c) illustrate that the liquid collection container
may include a flexible liner 1835 that expands to accept collected
liquid and collapses as the collected contents are evacuated from
the liquid collection container 1830.
[0166] FIGS. 44-46 illustrate an exemplary liquid collection and
disposal process, in accordance with aspects of the present
invention. First, liquid is collected in a disposable liquid
collection container 1830 via at least one opening 1832 in the lid
1831 of the liquid collection container 1830. The disposable liquid
collection container may be, for example, less than 5 L. However,
the liquid collection container may also be larger. When the
disposable liquid collection container 1830 fills to its limit,
liquid begins to enter the second cavity 1840, which may be
configured to receive a second collection container. At the end of
a procedure, the remaining fluid in the disposable liquid
collection container 1830 is transferred to the second cavity 1840.
Removal of the suction instruments may cause the collected liquid
in the disposable liquid collection container 1830 to be drawn into
the second cavity 1840, for example. Among other mechanisms for
transferring the liquid, a piston in the first cavity 1815 may
compress the liner 1835 of the disposable liquid collection
container 1830 and force the collected liquid into the second
cavity 1840. After the liquid in the disposable liquid collection
container 1830 has been transferred to the second cavity 1840, the
liquid collection container 1830 may be removed and discarded in
the appropriate waste repository. The second cavity may comprise a
disposable collection container and/or a reusable container. As
shown in FIG. 46, section 12, disposal may include running a
cleaning cycle on the second cavity. Although a cleaning cycle is
only shown in connection with the second cavity, a cleaning cycle
may be provided in connection with any of the collection containers
and disposal stations/methods described herein. For example, a
cleaning cycle may be included as part of a disposal cycle for a
reusable container. In the alternative, a cleaning cycle may be
provided as part of a disposal cycle for a disposable container.
This may allow the disposable container to be thrown in a regular
trash or waste depository.
[0167] A new disposable liquid collection container 1830 may then
be placed in the first cavity 1815 to prepare for a second
procedure. Liquid is collected in the second liquid collection
container 1830 until it reaches capacity. Then, collected liquid
enters the second cavity. The process is repeated allowing for
large amounts of fluid and possibly multiple procedures before the
second cavity is filled. When liquid in the second cavity reaches a
predetermined amount, a visual or audio indication may be presented
at a user interface on the main body 1812. The system may then be
transported to a disposal station. The main body may be secure to
and communicate with a disposal station as described above. The
disposal station may also connect to at least one opening 1850 in a
lower portion of the main body. This lower interface allows the
collected liquid to drain from the second cavity with the
assistance of gravity. Suction may also be applied in removing the
collected contents. After the collected contents are removed, a
cleaning cycle may be performed to clean the second cavity. This
cleaning cycle may include the use of a cleaning fluid, such as
detergent, and/or heat. After the cleaning cycle, the main body may
be transported for use in a procedure. Once a disposable liquid
collection container 1830 is received in the main body, liquid
collection may begin, again.
[0168] FIG. 47(a-c) illustrate a variation in which contents may be
collected in either a first liquid collection container 1930 or a
second liquid collection container 1931, based on manual selection
via a lever 1932. When lever 1932 is in a first position (a) shown
in FIG. 47(a), an opening between fluid collection port 1933 and
the first liquid collection container 1930 is opened. Thus,
collected fluid will be drawn into the first container 1930. When
lever 1932 is in a second position (b) shown in FIG. 47(b), the
opening 1934 between the fluid collection port 1933 and the first
container 1930 is closed, and a second opening 1935 between the
fluid collection port 1933 and the second liquid collection
container 1931 is created, allowing the fluid collection port 1933
to communicate with the second liquid collection container
1931.
[0169] FIG. 48 illustrates and embodiment in which the second
liquid collection container is similar to the disposable liquid
collection container described in connection with FIGS. 44-46. The
first liquid collection container may be a rigid container, which
may or may not be disposable. FIG. 48 further shows that the first
and second liquid collection container may be used in connection
with a main body having a second cavity, as described in connection
with FIGS. 44-46. By providing a first, smallest removable liquid
collection container, a second, removable mid-range liquid
collection container, and a third, largest collection container
configured within the main body of a liquid collection system, a
user may use a container suited to each procedure, while having
available larger amounts of alternative containers if the amount of
liquid that needs to be collected is larger than the anticipated
amount.
[0170] FIG. 49 illustrates an exemplary liquid collection and
disposal process in a liquid collection system having a disposable
liquid collection container and a second cavity for collecting
additional liquid inside the main body. This figure illustrates a
disposal station 1860 to which the liquid collection system may be
attached to evacuate the collected contents.
[0171] FIGS. 50-52 show another variation of a liquid collection
and disposal system 1010. The main body 1012 of the system 1010
includes a cavity 1015 for receiving collected fluids. The system
includes a disposable manifold 1031, which, in turn, includes at
least one collection port 1032 configured to connect various
medical instruments that draw liquid into (or extract liquid from)
the collection container 1030. The cavity may be configured to
receive a collapsible liquid collection container 1030 that
includes a flexible liner that attaches to disposable manifold
1031.
[0172] FIG. 51 shows a variation with an additional portion on the
main body 1012. The additional portion may provide a larger user
interface, and may be used to house a vacuum source, storage,
and/or other features.
[0173] A disposal device 1180 is also shown in FIG. 50. The
disposal station 1080 is configured such that the main body 1012 is
moved over the top of the disposal station 1080. The disposal
station may connect to the main body and remove collected fluid in
a similar manner to that described above in connection with FIGS.
8, 29-35, and 39, for example. The main body 1012 may also secure
to the disposal station 1080 in another manner. As shown in FIG.
50, the disposal station attaches to an evacuation port in the
lower portion of the liquid collection container 1030 and evacuates
the collected contents of the liquid collection container 1030.
Similar to some of the variations described above, the liquid
collection container is configured to collapse as the contents are
removed. The collapsed liquid collection container and the
disposable manifold 1031 may then be removed and thrown away. In
this variation, gravity may assist in emptying the liquid
collection container.
[0174] The contents of the liquid collection container may also be
evacuated through an evacuation port located at the side or top of
the main body or liquid collection container, through an opening in
the disposable manifold, or through an opening created after the
removal of the disposable manifold.
[0175] In each of the variations described herein, a vacuum source
may be included in main body 1012. Alternatively, the main body may
be configured to attach to an external vacuum source for collecting
contents in the liquid collection container. The vacuum source may
connected directly to the liquid collection container or via a
manifold in communication with the liquid collection container. The
liquid collection systems may further include various valves,
filters, etc. as described in connection with the other
implementations described herein or as described in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. ______ filed on Mar. 24, 2008, titled FLUID
COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS.
[0176] FIGS. 53 and 55 show another variation of a system in
accordance with aspects of the present invention. FIG. 53 shows a
main body 1101 configured to hold a plurality of liquid collection
containers 1102. A user interface is shown at 1125. FIG. 53 depicts
three liquid collection containers 1102; however, the main body
1101 may be configured to hold any suitable number of liquid
collection containers 1102 for the size of the main body 1101. Each
of the liquid collection containers draws in liquid separately. In
one variation, the user selects which liquid collection container
to use. The main body is configured to attach to a disposable
manifold 1103. This implementation allows a single or multiple
liquid collection containers to be filled, as needed. A second
liquid collection container may be used, without contacting fluid
collected in a first container, by replacing the disposable
manifold and selecting a second liquid collection container. Among
other things, this approach allows the liquid collection system to
be used multiple times between disposal of collected fluids.
[0177] FIG. 53 also shows an evacuation port 1104 located on the
side of the main body 1102. By placing the evacuation port 1104 at
a lower position on the main body 1102, gravity is able to assist
in the evacuation process. This evacuation port 1104 may
alternatively be located at the top, bottom, upper portion of the
side, etc. The contents of the liquid collection container may also
be evacuated through an opening in the disposable manifold. The
liquid collection container may include a flexible liner configured
to extend and collapse during the process of fluid collection and
evacuation, as described further herein.
[0178] FIG. 54 illustrates an exemplary disposal station 1105 for
removing the collected contents in the liquid collection system
1100 of FIG. 53. The disposal station may connect to the main body
and remove collected fluid in a similar manner to that described
above in connection with FIGS. 8, 29-35, and 39, for example.
[0179] FIG. 56 illustrates a liquid collection process in
accordance with a liquid collection system 1100 similar to the
variations depicted in FIGS. 53-55. FIG. 56 illustrates that a
first side 1100a can be configured to block a view of liquid that
is being collected in liquid collection containers 102 in an
opposite side 1100b. This arrangement may provide a more aesthetic
quality if multiple procedures will be carried out before the
liquid collection system is emptied, for example.
[0180] FIG. 57 illustrates an exemplary disposal station 1105 for
removing the collected contents in the liquid collection system
1100. The disposal station may connect to the main body and remove
collected fluid in a similar manner to that described above in
connection with FIGS. 8, 29-35, and 39, for example.
[0181] FIG. 58 illustrates an exemplary sequence of operation using
liquid collection system 1100. A liquid collection container 1102
holding collected fluid is shown as darkened. An empty liquid
collection container 1102 is shown in white. After a procedure, the
liquid collection system can be transported to a disposal station
1105 to dispose of the collected fluid. FIG. 2a illustrates that
the liquid collection system may be returned for another procedure
after disposal. FIG. 2b illustrates that the liquid collection
container 1102a may be attached to the disposal station separately
from the main body 1101, and a second liquid collection container
1102b may be attached to the main body 1101 and used for another
procedure. FIG. 2c illustrates an implementation in which a
procedure area includes at plurality of disposal stations. This
plurality of disposal stations allows a first liquid collection
container 1102a to be disconnected from the main body 1101 and
attached to disposal station 1105a for a disposal cycle. A second
liquid collection container 1102b that has been previously run
through a disposal cycle at disposal station 1105b may then be
attached to the main body and used for a continuation of the
procedure or for another procedure. While liquid collection
container 1102b is in use, for example, a disposal cycle is being
completed on liquid collection container 1102a.
[0182] FIG. 59 illustrates a variation in which a liquid collection
system 1101 may be configured to include a plurality of liquid
collection containers 1102. In this variation, the main body 1101
is configured with a central portion for receiving a disposable
manifold 1103. For example, a first disposable manifold may be
placed in communication with the liquid collection system 1101. One
of the plurality of liquid collection containers 1102 is selected,
and upon collection of liquid, the liquid enters the disposable
manifold and flows to the selected one of the plurality of liquid
collection containers 1102. The liquid collection container 1102
may be selected, for example by placement of the manifold 1103 in
communication with an opening 1120 corresponding to the selected
liquid collection container 1102. In other variations, the manifold
may be attached in the same position, and the liquid collection
container may be selected, for example, using an electronic
selection, manually moving a lever. If the first selected liquid
collection container is filled to a predetermined amount, liquid
collected beyond that amount may then enter a second liquid
collection container in the plurality 1102. The second collection
container may begin to collect liquid after a manual selection. For
example, a manifold may be placed in communication with the opening
1120 corresponding to the second collection container. This second
collection container may also being to collect liquid automatically
upon the first liquid collection container reaching the
predetermined amount. For example, adjacent collection containers
may communicate in a tandem or spillover manner. This sequence
continues until a procedure is finished. At the end of the
procedure, the disposable manifold may be removed and
discarded.
[0183] At the beginning of a second procedure, a new disposable
manifold may be placed on the main body, and a new liquid
collection container may be selected from the plurality of
containers 1102. The liquid collection process continues, similar
to the first procedure, using as many liquid collection containers
in the plurality 1102 as necessary. This sequence of operations may
continue until each of the liquid collection containers in the
plurality 1102 has been used. Then, the liquid collection system
1100 may be transported to a disposal station as shown in FIG. 57
for emptying, for example.
[0184] This sequence of operation described and shown in FIG. 59
allows the liquid collection system 1101 to be used for a plurality
of procedures or for a large amount of liquid collection before
disposal is necessary. Through use of a plurality of individual
liquid collection containers and attachment of a new disposable
manifold between procedures, fluid from one procedure is prevented
from coming into contact with fluid from another procedure.
[0185] FIGS. 60-62 show another variation in accordance with
aspects of the present invention. In FIG. 60, the liquid collection
system includes a main body 1201 having a user interface 1202. The
main body 1201 is configured to hold a plurality of liquid
collection containers 1203. Although six liquid collection
containers 1203 are shown in the exemplary implementation of FIG.
60, the main body may be configured to hold any suitable number of
liquid collection containers for its size. The main body 1201 and
the liquid collection containers 1203 are configured to attach to a
plurality of disposable manifolds 1204. Each of the disposable
manifolds 1204 include at least one port 1205 for communicating
with a medical suction instrument, for example, through which fluid
is collected in one of the liquid collection containers 1203.
[0186] Each of the plurality of liquid collection containers 1203
collects fluid separately from the other liquid collection
containers. By using individual disposable manifolds 1204, a single
liquid collection container, or multiple liquid collection
containers, in the plurality 1203 may be filled, as needed. A user
may select which liquid collection container to use, for example. A
second liquid collection container in the plurality 1203 may be
used without contacting either the previously collected fluid in a
first liquid collection container or the disposable manifold for
the first collection container, by selecting a second liquid
collection container and attaching at least one suction instrument
to a port 1205 in the disposable manifold of the liquid collection
container. This approach allows the liquid collection system to be
used multiple times between disposal operations for collected
fluids.
[0187] Exemplary disposal stations 1210 and 1211 are shown in FIG.
62, which are usable with the variation of the disposal system
shown in FIG. 60. These disposal stations 1210, 1211 may include an
evacuation attachment configured to communicate with and evacuate a
plurality of liquid collection containers at one time, or may be
configured to communicate with and evacuate one liquid collection
container at a time. Disposal station 1211 may be configured to
employ a conveyor belt type disposal process in which liquid
collection containers 1203 are removed and drained in order, for
example. The conveyor belt may remove the liquid collection
containers 1203 from the main body 1201 and move them through the
disposal station The disposal process may further include a
cleaning step.
[0188] In FIG. 62, disposal station 1210 is illustrated as
including a manifold section 1220. In the variation shown as 1210,
the liquid collection containers 1203 are received in the disposal
station having a manifold 1204 attached. As part of the disposal
cycle, the used manifold is removed and discarded, for example, in
1230. The manifold section may be used in the process of removing
and discarding manifolds, or may be used to store new manifolds to
be attached to liquid collection containers after completion of a
disposal cycle.
[0189] FIG. 63 shows an exemplary liquid collection and disposal
process in accordance with the components and operations shown in
and described with respect to FIGS. 60-62. Used liquid collection
containers are darkened in this figure. Unused or cleaned liquid
collection containers are shown in white. In the exemplary
variation of FIG. 63, the disposal station is configured to receive
liquid collection containers, for example by removing the liquid
collection containers from a main body 1201 of a liquid collection
system. Additional liquid collection containers may be maintained
in a first position in the disposal station, as shown. The disposal
station removes the liquid collection containers 1203 from the main
body 1201. The removed liquid collection containers move the liquid
collection containers previously held in the disposal station to a
second position. In the second position, the main body may receive
the liquid collection containers. After receiving the liquid
collection containers, the main body may be removed from the
disposal station and used for liquid collection. FIG. 63 shows that
the removal and receiving process may occur when the main body is
moved adjacent to the disposal station. The disposal station 1211
may include a feature that moves the main body 1201 through the
disposal station. Disposal station may also include a feature that
distinguishes liquid collection containers containing collected
fluid and unused liquid collection containers.
[0190] FIG. 64 shows another exemplary liquid collection and
disposal process in accordance with the components and operations
shown in and described with respect to FIGS. 60-62. The disposal
station 1210 is configured to receive used liquid collection
containers 1203a at a first position 1213 and to transfer new or
cleaned liquid collection containers 1203b to the main body 1201 of
the liquid collection system at a second position 1214. Used liquid
collection containers are drained of collected liquid and/or
cleaned before being transferred to the second location to be
received by a main body 1201.
[0191] FIGS. 65 and 66 show another variation in accordance with
aspects of the present invention. In FIG. 65, the liquid collection
system includes a main body 1301 having a first portion 1302 and a
second portion 1303. The first portion 1302 provides an opening
through which at least one liquid collection container 1304 may be
accessed. The second portion 1303 provides an enclosure that
shields at least one liquid collection container 1304. The second
portion 1303 may also include a user interface. Main body 1301 is
configured to hold a plurality of liquid collection containers
1304. FIG. 60 shows a circular configuration of liquid collection
containers, although other embodiments may have other shapes. The
main body 1301 includes a rotating mechanism that rotates the
plurality of liquid collection containers around a central portion
1306. Each of the plurality of liquid collection containers may
include a disposable manifold 1305. Each manifold includes at least
one port 1307 for attaching a suction instrument, through which
liquid is collected into the liquid collection container.
[0192] In order to collect liquid in the liquid collection system,
a first liquid collection container accessible through the first
portion 1302 of the main body is selected. This selection may be
made manually by the user, or may be automatically determined based
on the position of the first liquid collection container with
respect to the main body, for example. At least one suction
instrument may be attached to a port 1307 in the manifold 1305 of
the selected liquid collection device. Once suction is established
from the vacuum source, liquid may be collected in the liquid
collection container via the suction instrument.
[0193] After the first liquid collection container has been used,
the main body may be rotated such that a second liquid collection
container is placed in proximity with the first portion 1302 of the
main body. The second liquid collection container is then ready for
communication with at least one suction instrument for collection.
These features allow the liquid collection system to be used with
multiple liquid collection containers, or to be used in multiple
procedures before disposal. The second portion 1303 of the main
body shields the used liquid collection container and manifold both
from contact and from view. Once the second liquid collection
container is either full or the medical procedure is finished, for
example, the main body may rotate such that the second liquid
collection container is internal to the second portion 1303 of the
main body, and such that a third liquid collection container is
accessible through the first portion 1302 of the main body, and so
on.
[0194] Central portion 1306 may include a vacuum source, or an
external vacuum source may be connected to the main body 1301.
Central portion 1306 may also include a mechanism for rotating the
liquid collection containers 1304. An evacuation opening 1038 is
shown in a lower portion of the main body 1301. In various
implementations, the liquid collection containers may be rigid or
flexible and may be drained through an opening in communication
with evacuation opening 1308. The liquid collection system may be
moved to a disposal station, and the disposal station may be placed
in communication with evacuation opening 1308. The disposal station
then is able to evacuate the contents of at least one liquid
collection container. The main body may be configured such that all
of the liquid collection containers are evacuated at the same time,
only selected liquid collection containers are evacuated at the
same time, or liquid collection containers are evacuated
individually. This evacuation may occur as the disposal station
causes the liquid collection containers to rotate in order for
evacuation, or a user may manually cause the liquid collection
containers to rotate for evacuation. Alternatively, only used
liquid collection containers may be evacuated.
[0195] Another exemplary disposal station 1310 is illustrated in
FIG. 65. The disposal station may include at least one disposal
interface 1311. Although the disposal interface 1311 is shown in a
lower portion of the disposal station, in other implementations,
the collected contents may be evacuated through an evacuation
opening located at other positions in the main body, or may be
evacuated through the manifold or via an opening in the liquid
collection container, for example.
[0196] The disposal station may connect to the main body and remove
collected fluid in a similar manner to that described above in
connection with FIGS. 8, 29-35, and 39, for example.
[0197] If the liquid collection container is reusable, after
evacuation, it may be disinfected prior to reuse. If the liquid
collection container is disposable, after evacuation, it may be
discarded.
[0198] FIG. 68 shows another variation in accordance with aspects
of the present invention. In FIG. 68, the liquid collection system
includes a main body 1401 and a plurality of cavities 1402, 1403.
Although two cavities are shown in FIG. 68, any number of cavities
may be included on main body 1401. Each cavity is configured to
attach to a disposable liquid collection container 1406, having a
lid 1407 and a flexible liner 1408. The flexible liner 1408 may be
attached to the lid such that a substantially sealed interior space
is sealed therebetween. The lid includes at least one port 1409 for
communicating with a suction instrument, through which liquid is
collected into the liquid collection container. The lid 1407 may
further include an additional opening 1410 configured to
communicate with an evacuation source. In the alternative, the at
least one port 1409 may be used for evacuation of the liquid
collection container 1406. The liquid collection container 1406 may
be similar to those described in connection with any of FIGS. 1-8,
20-25, 82-92, or other variations described herein. The lid 1407
may include similar openings, valves, and seals. The cavity may
further include a piston, as described in connection with FIGS.
29-35. The main body 1401 may include a central portion 1405, and
may further include a user interface 1411. The central portion 1405
may include a vacuum source, filters, etc., similar to those
described in other implementations described and/or shown
herein.
[0199] FIG. 69 illustrates an exemplary variation of a liquid
collection container. This variation includes a lid/manifold 1407,
a rigid cavity 1412 configured to attach to the lid 1407, and a
flexible liner 1408 with a top configured to abut either the lid
1407 or the rigid cavity 1412. Flexible liner 1408 may include a
flexible tube structure 1413 for assistance in evacuating fluid
from the flexible liner. This variation includes an interface 1416
that may be configured to communicate with a vacuum source upon
insertion of the liquid collection container into the main body
1401. This communication may occur without any additional manual
steps. The rigid container 1412 includes an opening 1417 for
transferring collected fluid to the flexible liner 1408. The rigid
container may also include an additional opening 1414 configured to
communicate the flexible liner 1408 with an evacuation source 1417.
The rigid container 1412 may be used to collect a smaller amount of
fluid, with flexible liner 1408 attached as a back-up or spillover
container. Rigid container 1412 may also be used as a specimen
collection container.
[0200] FIGS. 70-71 show another exemplary implementation of a
portable waste collection system 1501, according to exemplary
aspects of the present invention. The system 1501 includes a main
body 1502, the main body may include a stand 1505 and base 1506.
The base in FIG. 71 shows four legs 1507 extending from the stand
1505. However, other embodiments may include a different number of
legs (e.g., three legs, five legs) or a solid base, such as a
square or circular shaped base. The base may include wheels 1507 or
other mobile elements that allow the system 1501 to be easily moved
to a desired location.
[0201] The system also includes a plurality of waste collection
containers 1503a, 1503b, 1503c, 1503d. Although four containers are
shown in FIG. 71, any suitable number of removable waste collection
containers 1503 may be used with a given size system. The main body
may include a support section 1502 that supports the containers
1503. The main body may also include separators 1504 located
between each waste collection container 1503. The section of the
main body including the separators 1504 and the liquid collection
containers 1503 may rotate around a central axis, as shown in FIG.
70. The waste collection containers each have a lid 1508. Each lid
includes at least one port 1509 for communication with a suction
instrument. Each lid may also include an additional opening 1510,
that may be used, for example, as an evacuation port. The lids may
include additional features described in connection with FIGS. 1,
4-8, 17-24, and 29-35. For example, each lid may include an
interface for connecting with a suction source (including
automatically in some variations), as shown in FIGS. 22-24. Each
lid may additionally connect a liquid collection container 1503
with an adjacent liquid collection container. As with the other
variations described herein, the liquid collection container 1503
may be rigid or flexible, may be disposable or reusable, and may
include a rigid cavity configured to accept a lid with an attached
flexible liner.
[0202] The liquid collection containers may be configured to
include a portion 1512 shaped to slidably fit into a groove 1513 in
the main body.
[0203] A vacuum source may be included in main body 1502, or the
main body may include an interface for connecting to an external
vacuum source. This variation may further include an attachment
feature for attaching an additional container 1511. The additional
container may be configured for use as a back-up or overflow
container, and may additionally be configured for use as a trap or
specimen collection container.
[0204] FIG. 71(a) shows an exemplary variation of the top of a lid
1508 in more detail. FIG. F2 also shows a variation in which the
main body 1501 does not include separators 1504 between the waste
collection containers 1503. Each lid 1508 may include at least two
openings. One opening 1518 may connect the waste collection
container 1503 to at least one device through which waste will be
collected, for example. FIG. 71(a) shows a connection member 1519,
such as tubing, in communication with the opening. The opening 1518
may include a port or other structure configured to communicate
with a connector, such as tubing, and/or one or more medical
devices. The opening may also be configured to provide
communication with a plurality of medical devices. In operation,
waste is drawn through the medical device, through the connection
member 1519, and into the waste collection container 3 using
suction.
[0205] A second opening 1516 may be configured to provide
communication with a source of suction. For example, tubing or
another connection member 1517 may connect the opening 1516 in the
lid 1508 to a vacuum or other source of suction. In FIG. 71(a),
each lid 1508 includes an opening 1516 configured to communicate
with a source of suction.
[0206] Each lid may further include a third opening 1513 configured
to provide communication with an adjacent waste collection
container 1503b through a conduit or other communication feature
1514, such as tubing. In certain circumstances, the waste
collection container 1503 may become full or temporarily inoperable
during a waste collection process. This communication between
adjacent waste collection containers 1503 mitigates the negative
effect these may have on a medical procedure by providing a
connection to a plurality of back-up containers. For example, this
communication between adjacent waste collection containers may
allow collected waste to overflow to an adjacent container.
[0207] In an alternative exemplary variation, the second opening
1516 may be configured to provide communication to an adjacent
waste collection container 1503b. In this variation, each waste
collection container 1503 is connected to at least one adjacent
waste collection container. This communication with an adjacent
container 1503 allows the source of suction to be communication
from the collection container as well. Thus, for example, the
source of suction may be communicated directly to only one waste
collection container.
[0208] In yet another variation, each waste collection container
may be configured to function as a separate, independent suction
canister, independently communicating with a source of suction
and/or independently providing communication with at least one
medical device.
[0209] The waste collection containers 1503 may be configured to
require a manual connection to an adjacent waste collection
container 1503 before use. Alternatively, the waste collection
containers may be configured to automatically collect overflow
waste from an adjacent waste collection container once the original
waste collection container has reached its capacity.
[0210] Although FIG. 71(a) depicts an individual connection 1517
between each liquid collection container and a vacuum source, the
system may be configured for one liquid collection container to
attach to a vacuum source, and for the other liquid collection
containers to communicate with the vacuum source via communication
with an adjacent liquid collection container.
[0211] FIG. 71(a) shows an additional opening 15 in the lid 8 of
each waste collection container 3. This optional opening may be
provided to allow a disposal system to communicate with the
container 3. For example, such a disposal system may evacuate the
collected waste material. Opening 1515 may further include a
breakable closure, such as a layer of plastic or foil that is
pierced when connected to the waste disposal system. In other
variations, the waste disposal system may communicate with a waste
collection container through one of the other openings 1516, 1518,
and 1513.
[0212] FIGS. 72-74 illustrate a variation in which the liquid
collection system of FIGS. 70-71 further includes an additional
liquid collection container 1511. This additional liquid collection
container may be used as a back-up storage container, for example,
or as a specimen collection container, among other things.
Additional liquid collection container 1511 may communicate with a
vacuum source 1520 placed in a central portion of the main body, as
shown in FIGS. 72 and 73. Alternatively, the additional collection
container 1511 may also communicate directly with a liquid
collection container 1503 via, for example, its lid 1508 as shown
in FIG. 74.
[0213] FIG. 72 illustrates a removable vacuum source 1520. As main
body may be configured to receive a removable vacuum source, the
vacuum source 1520 may be replaced with a second vacuum source, if
necessary. The main body may also be configured to communicate with
an external vacuum source.
[0214] FIG. 73 shows a central portion 1521 in the center of the
main body 1501 of the fluid collection system. This central portion
may be located above vacuum source 1520. If an external vacuum
source is being used, central portion 1521 is in communication with
the external vacuum source. Communication with either type of
vacuum source is established with the liquid collection container
via interface 1530. This communication is established as the liquid
collection container is received in the main body 1501.
[0215] When additional collection container 1511 is attached to
central piece 1521, suction through conduit 1513 draws liquid into
the container 1511 via at least one port 1514. a shield 1515
directs fluid away from conduit 1513, preventing liquid from
entering the vacuum.
[0216] The additional collection container 1511 may be attached to
the lid 1508 of the liquid collection container via opening 1540 in
lid 1508. Opening 1540 includes an extension that raises piece 1512
in additional collection container 1511 such that contents
collected in the additional collection container 1511 spillover
into container 1503. The additional collection container is
communicated with the vacuum source via collection container
1503.
[0217] FIG. 75 shows another variation in accordance with aspects
of the present invention. In FIG. 75, the liquid collection system
includes a main body 1601 including a cavity 1602, the cavity
having a top portion 1603 configured to receive a lid 1604 of a
collapsible liquid collection container 1605. In the variation
shown in FIG. 75, the lid 1604 is attached to a flexible liner
1606, and the flexible liner 1606 is configured to extend and
contract in a bellows-like manner. The liquid collection container
may further include a rigid bottom portion 1607.
[0218] The lid 1604 and rigid bottom 1608 may include a securing
mechanism, such as the one shown in FIG. 77(a, c), that secures the
lid to the rigid bottom portion 1607 prior to use and after
evacuation. The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 77(a-c) includes
a breakable portion 1610 located between a first piece 1611
attached to the rigid bottom and a second piece 1612 located on the
lid 1604. This breakable portion may be configured to break when
pressure is applied to expand the rigid bottom 1607 away from the
lid 1064. For example, the breakable portion may be configured to
break when vacuum pressure is applied to an interstitial space
between the cavity 1602 and the exterior of the flexible liner.
[0219] The first piece 1611 and the second piece 1612 may be
configured such that, after a liquid collection container has been
used and evacuated, the first piece 1611 secures to the second
piece 1612, as shown in FIG. 77(c). This securing may allow the
user to easily place the liquid collection container in contact
with the opening of the cavity, for example, and thereby avoid
pinching the flexible liner between the lid and the top portion of
the cavity, among other things.
[0220] The operation of the system shown in FIG. 77(a-c) is similar
to that discussed in connection with FIGS. 8 and 29-35. FIG. 75
shows an exemplary disposal station 1613 configured to evacuate the
contents of the liquid collection container.
[0221] The cavity 1602 may include a piston 1608. Piston 1608 may
include features similar to the piston described in connection with
FIGS. 29-35.
[0222] FIGS. 78-80 show another variation in accordance with
aspects of the present invention. In FIG. 78, the liquid collection
system includes a main body 1701 having a cavity 1702. The main
body is configured to communicate with a manifold 1703. The
manifold includes a plurality of ports 1704 for communication with
a suction instrument. An exemplary manifold is shown in FIG. 80.
FIGS. 78 and 80 show a variation of a lid 1703 in which the
plurality of ports are provided in a pattern around all sides of
the lid 1703. Among other things, this approach allows a user to
easily access a port, regardless of the position of the main body
1701. The main body may also include interfaces 1705 and 1706
providing communication between the interior of the cavity and the
exterior of the main body. These interfaces may be used to
communicate with a vacuum source, and may also be used to
communicate with an evacuation source, for example.
[0223] FIG. 79(a,b) shows an exemplary disposal system 1720 and an
optional attachment piece 1710 that may be used with the liquid
collection system shown in FIG. 78. The attachment piece 1710 may
include additional optional electronics or an attaching vacuum
source. The attachment piece 1710 may be configured to removably
attach to the main body 1701 of the liquid collection system. The
attachment piece 1710 may include wheels or other mobile feature
that enable the attachment piece 1710 to move along with the main
body, after attachment. The attachment piece may be removed prior
to evacuation or in order to attach the attachment piece to another
main body.
[0224] FIG. 79(b) shows an exemplary disposal system that may be
used in connection with the variation shown in FIG. 78. The
disposal station may connect to the main body and remove collected
fluid in a similar manner to that described above in connection
with FIGS. 8, 29-35, and 39.
[0225] FIG. 81 shows how one attachment piece 1710 may be used with
a plurality of main bodies 1700. A main body with collected liquid
is indicated as having a darkened center. An empty main body is
indicated as having a white center. The attachment piece may be
stationed near a procedure area, for example. When liquid is to be
collected, the main body may be transported to the procedure area
and connected to the attachment piece. Liquid is then collected
either until the procedure is finished or until the liquid in the
liquid collection container reaches a predetermined fill limit. At
this point, the liquid collection container and the main body 1700
may be disconnected from the attachment piece 1710 transported to a
disposal station 1720. If the procedure is not finished or if
another procedure begins before disposal of the collected liquid is
finished, a second main body/liquid collection container 1700 may
be attached to the attachment piece 1710 and used to collect liquid
while the first liquid collection container/main body is in the
process of disposal.
[0226] The liquid collection container in connection with each of
the above described variations may include a rigid or flexible
reusable collection container that is evacuated and disinfected
between uses, or a rigid or flexible disposable collection
container that is evacuated before being discarded in a waste
repository. A flexible, disposable collection container may include
aspects described in connection with other implementations
described herein, such as those shown and described in connection
with FIGS. 1-3, 4-8, 17-24, and 29-33.
[0227] Additional variations of liquid collection containers are
shown in FIGS. 82-92.
[0228] FIGS. 82(a-c) illustrate a liquid collection container 2100
having a flexible liner 2102 and a lid 2101 similar to those
described in connection with FIGS. 1, 5, and 8. Any of the various
lids may be used in combination with this liner variation. This
liquid collection container includes a mechanism for compressing,
rolling, or folding the flexible liner prior to use and after or
during disposal of collected liquid. For example, this mechanism
may include a roller 2103 and a piece 2104 attached between the
roller 2103 and a side of the lid 2101 opposite the side on which
the roller 2103 is located. The piece 2104 may include a strip of
material configured to surround at least a portion of the exterior
of the flexible liner. 2102.
[0229] FIG. 82(c) shows the mechanism holding the flexible liner in
a collapsed state prior to use. In the next portion of FIG. 82(c),
the mechanism extends to allow the liner 2102 to expand. The liquid
collection container is used to collect liquid. After liquid is
collected, the liquid collection container is emptied of the
collected liquid. The mechanism retracts, thereby rolling, folding,
or compressing the flexible liner 2102 of the liquid collection
container 2100. The mechanism may retract by rolling piece 2104
around roller 2103. This action may occur after the collected
liquid has been removed, or may assist in compressing the liner
2102 while the collected liquid is being removed.
[0230] FIG. 83(a and b) show an additional variation of features
for a collection system in accordance with aspects of the present
invention. This variation may include ridges or ribs 2203 that
extend in a first direction along the liner 2202. FIG. 83b shows a
cross section of the lid 2201 and liner 2202. Lid 2201 may include
an opening 2211 for communication with a vacuum source, and may
also include a fluid trap or filter 2210, such as a PPV filter to
block liquid from entering the vacuum source. FIG. 84 shows a cross
section of such a liner 2202. FIG. 85 illustrates how the liner
functions during liquid collection and disposal.
[0231] FIGS. 86-87 illustrate a variation of stacking liquid
collection containers having a flexible liner. FIG. 86 illustrates
a liquid collection system 2301 configured to receive a plurality
of liquid collection containers in a stacked manner. As shown in
FIG. 87, each of the plurality of liquid collection containers
includes a lid 2302 and a flexible liner 2303. The lid 2302 may
hingeably or otherwise be configured to closed an opening at the
top of the flexible liner 2303. The lid may include an opening 2304
configured to receive a manifold 2305 having at least one port 2305
through which liquid may be collected into the interior of the
liquid collection container. After liquid has been collected, the
manifold 2304 may be removed prior to evacuation of the collected
contents or used as an interface for evacuation of the collected
contents, for example. The flexible liner 2303 collapses as the
collected contents are removed. In typical operation, the collapsed
liquid collection container is removed from the stacked plurality
of liquid collection containers following collection, and the next
liquid collection container is ready to have the lid closed, a
manifold attached, and liquid collected.
[0232] FIG. 88(a-c) shows a similar variation to that of FIGS. 86
and 87, in which the liquid collection containers are compressed
prior to use and stacked adjacent to each other, rather than, for
example, nested inside one other. A compartment 2310 may be
provided in liquid collection system 2301 for receiving a number of
compressed liquid collection containers, as illustrated in FIG.
88(b). FIG. 88(a-c) also illustrates that the liquid collection
containers may further include tubing 2306, such as flexible
tubing. This tubing may be used to assist with fluid removal during
a diposal process as previously described. The tubing 2306 may be,
for example, a flexible tube attached to the liner 2303 or a
tubular opening formed in the material of the liner.
[0233] FIG. 89(a-c) illustrates another variation that is generally
similar in function to that of FIG. 1. FIG. 89(b) shows a cross
section of this variation, including a portion 2320 in the bottom
39 of the liquid collection container 30 that is configured to abut
a second portion 2321 in the lid 31 of the liquid collection
container when the flexible liner 35 is in a compressed state.
Portions 2320 and 2321 may be used to provide a securing mechanism
that secures the liquid collection container in a collapsed
position. For example, portions 2320 and 2321 may snap together,
frictionally maintain a connection, and may include an adhesive
therebetween. Portions 2320 are drawn apart as part of fluid
collection. This may occur via vacuum pressure applied to the
exterior of liner 35 prior to fluid collection or via the pressure
of collected fluid. FIG. 89(c) illustrates an exemplary liquid
collection and disposal in liquid collection container 30.
[0234] A disposal station usable with the variations of FIGS. 82-89
may function similarly to those described in connection with FIGS.
8 and 29-35. However, other disposal processes may be used. For
example, the disposal process may optionally include one or more of
draining or dumping of collected liquid via an opening in a liquid
collection container, positioning a tube in a liquid collection
container and evacuating the collected contents, such as shown in
FIGS. 90(a,b), evacuating a liquid collection container using
suction, collapsing a flexible liner, adding a solidifier to
collected liquid, capping of a liquid collection container, and/or
disposal of an entire liquid collection container along with
collected contents.
[0235] FIGS. 91 and 91(a-c) illustrate another variation of a
liquid collection container. This variation includes a lid 2101 and
a flexible liner 2100 attached to the lid. The liner may include
tubing 2107, as described above. The liquid collection container is
received in a cavity 2103 of a mobile unit 2111, not shown. The lid
2101 includes at least one port 2109 configured to communicate with
a suction instrument through which fluid is drawn into the
collection container. This communicate may be made via tubing 2110.
Each port may include a closure mechanism 2104 that closes the port
when communicate is not established with such tubing 2110. FIG. 91
a shows an example of such a closure mechanism. Port 2109 may
include a closure piece 2108a biased to block the port. Closure
piece 2108a may be attached to at least one extension 2108b
extending along port 2109, as shown in position (a). When a tube
2110 is connected to port 2109, extension 1208b is biased against
closure piece 2108a and forces an opening between closure piece
2108a and port 2109, creating communication between port 2109 and
the liquid collection container, as shown in position (b). This
communication allows fluid to be suctioned through port 2109. When
the tube 2110 is removed, the closure piece 2108a again biases
against port 2109, as shown in position (a).
[0236] The lid 2101 may also include an indicator 2105 that
indicates whether the liquid collection container is new or used.
An embodiment of such an indicator is illustrated in FIG. 91(b).
This indicator may automatically indicate that the liquid
collection container has been used, once any amount of fluid has
been drawn into the container. Collected fluid may include a very
small amount of fluid, and may be clear. Indicator 2105 allows a
user to quickly identify used containers without requiring a visual
inspection of liquid collection container. This prevents liquid
collection containers from mistakenly being used for multiple
procedures.
[0237] The liquid collection container in FIG. 91 may also include
a non-drip valve 2106 located between the lid 2101 and the main
body 2111 and vacuum source. An example of such a non-drip valve
2106 is shown in FIG. 91c. The valve includes a closure piece 2113
biased against an opening. As the lid 2101 is received in the main
body 2111 of a liquid collection system, the lid 2101 presses the
closure piece 2113 away from the opening. When the vacuum source is
started, the suction opens a flexible end portion 2112 of lid 2101,
pulling the flexible end portion to position 2114, thereby
providing communication between the vacuum source and the liquid
collection container.
[0238] FIG. 92 illustrates a process of liquid collection using the
liquid collection container 2100 from FIG. 91. In this variation,
liquid is drawn into the liquid collection container until a float
valve 2116 is raised via contact with collected fluid, as shown in
sections 1-4. At this point, collected fluid is drawn through tube
2107 in the liner 2115 and into another container, such as a second
container, via the non-drip valve 2106. A second container may be
configured similar to those described in connection with FIGS.
41-46, for example.
[0239] While aspects of the present invention have been described
and illustrated with reference to one or more preferred variations
thereof, it is not the intention of the applicants that these
aspects be restricted to such detail. Rather, it is the intention
of the applicants that aspects of the present invention be defined
by all equivalents, both suggested hereby and known to those of
ordinary skill in the art, of the variations falling within the
scope thereof.
* * * * *