Abstract:
A suction and irrigation device for medical use comprises a valve body with an irrigation passage and a suction passage. At least one irrigation pipe and at least one suction pipe are connectable to the irrigation passage and the suction passage by connections at a proximal side of the valve body. A suction/irrigation tube is connectable to the irrigation passage and the suction passage at a distal side of the valve body by at least one further connection. A valve assembly is provided within the valve body, which in a first position opens the suction passage and closes the irrigation passage and in a second position closes the suction passage and opens the irrigation passage. The device comprises at least one push element which interacts with at least one movable element of the valve assembly, whereas the movable element is movable by mechanical force acted upon the push element such, that the push element activates the valve assembly from one position to the other position.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to European Application No. 10192824.0 filed Nov. 26, 2010 and to PCT Application No. PCT/EP2011/070952 filed Nov. 24, 2011, all of which are incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The invention relates to a suction and irrigation device for medical use, in particular to a handheld suction and irrigation device operated by a medically trained person. 
         [0004]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0005]    Suction and irrigation devices are regularly used in several medical fields, for example in surgery, dentistry or general medical care. Such devices comprise a suction line and an irrigation line connected to a proximal side of a handhold, while a tip-hole is provided on a distal side, which is directed to the treatment area. The suction line is connected to a vacuum device to suck fluids through the tip-hole and the irrigation line is connected to a fluid reservoir to direct an irrigation fluid to the treatment area via the tip-hole. The handhold may comprise an actuation unit in form of switch or valve for switching from a suction modus to an irrigation modus and back. Many methods of treatment require repeated back and forth switching between suction and irrigation. Therefore the actuation unit has to be easily accessible and operable. 
         [0006]    In EP 0 553 461 A1 (Elektronik-Vertrieb GmbH), a conventional suction and irrigation device is shown. It includes a handpiece to which an irrigation tubing and a suction tubing are connected, and a tubular extension piece. The tubular extension piece comprises an irrigation channel and a suction channel and is introduced into a surgical wound. The suction channel of the handpiece communicates with the surrounding atmosphere via a bypass bore. By closing the bypass bore, fluid is drawn off. The irrigation fluid is delivered by means of a roller pump which is activated by a foot switch permitting a precise metering of the delivery rate. In addition to a volume control of the irrigation pump a pressure control can also be provided, for which purpose the irrigation fluid line is provided with an irrigation clamp. The irrigation clamp opens or closes an irrigation tube running through the handpiece. The irrigation and suction device permits a controlled fluid environment in a surgical wound, as a result of which formation of pools or drying-out of the tissue is prevented. The surgeon can operate the device with one hand by opening and closing the bypass. 
         [0007]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,680,026 (G. Deane, B. O. Weightman) discloses a hand-held suction-irrigator for surgical use, which has a handle and two inlet bores extending through the handle and connected respectively to a suction source and a source of irrigating fluid. A valve assembly connects one or the other of the bores to a single outlet port so that the outlet port can be used to apply suction or irrigating fluid. A probe is removably coupled to the outlet port by cooperating luer fittings. The two inlet bores are parallel with one another, the outlet port being located intermediate the inlet bores on the opposite side of the valve assembly. A valve member is mounted in the valve assembly and can be displaced transversely of the bores by pushing down on the valve member with a finger or thumb which have to be placed exactly on the valve member. When pushing the valve member a spring member is cocked which returns the valve member to the previous position after the valve member is released. 
         [0008]    WO 2009/019538 A1, which is equivalent to U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0230823, (Lina Medical APS) discloses a valve mechanism for a suction and irrigation instrument. It comprises a first tubular housing provided with a first distal conduit for coupling to the instrument, and conduit means for communicating with a suction/irrigation source comprising a first and a second proximal conduit and a first piston movably arranged in the first tubular housing between a first position and a second position. The first piston has a first through-opening intersecting the longitudinal axis of the first piston. Upon movement of the first piston into the first position the first through-opening opens a pathway between the first distal conduit and the first proximal conduit, and upon movement of the first piston into the second position the first through-opening opens a pathway through the first distal conduit and the second proximal conduit. 
         [0009]    Known suction and irrigation devices need high fine motor skills to switch between suction and irrigation modus, while simultaneously other treatments have to be completed. In practice often two hands are used to switch the device from suction to irrigation to ensure safe switch-over. In same cases a lot of force is needed to actuate the switch or valve which may lead to shivering of the hand and therefore of the suction and irrigation device. This can disturb or interrupt the treatment and even increase surgical risk, if the instrument is used together with a surgical microscope and therefore small movements of the instrument may lead to unwanted excursions in microscopical view. 
         [0010]    It is an object of the present invention to provide a suction and irrigation device and a valve body for such a device, which enable simple manual switching between a suction position and an irrigation position and provide simple and uncomplicated preparation of the suction and irrigation device. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0011]    These and other objects are solved by a suction and irrigation device according to claim  1 . Other embodiments are described in dependent claims. 
         [0012]    A suction and irrigation device for medical use according to the invention comprises a valve body with an irrigation passage and a suction passage, at least one irrigation pipe, at least one suction pipe and a suction/irrigation tube. The irrigation pipe and the suction pipe are connectable to the irrigation passage and the suction passage by connections at a proximal side of the valve body. The suction/irrigation tube is connectable to the irrigation passage and the suction passage at a distal side of the valve body by at least one further connection. The valve body comprises a valve assembly, which in a first position opens the suction passage and closes the irrigation passage and in a second position closes the suction passage and opens the irrigation passage. The valve assembly is located within in the valve body and comprises at least one movable element. The device further comprises at least one push element, which interacts with the at least one movable element. By mechanical force acted upon the push element, the at least one movable element is moved such that the valve assembly is activated from one position to the other position. That means the push element may be pushed from an initial position to an operated position, in which the push element actuates the valve assembly. When releasing the push force, the push element preferably returns back to its initial position. 
         [0013]    The suction and irrigation device according to the invention can be operated easily from a first position to a second position and back with one hand without the need of changing finger positions on the device or even to find a grip for holding the device. Thus the suction device can be kept still during surgery and other applications. Advantageously, the valve body is simple to be connected to the suction and irrigation pipes of the device. 
         [0014]    Preferably, in a state where no mechanical force is acted upon the push element the movable element is held by elastic forces in a position where the irrigation passage is closed and where the suction passage is open. This allows for a simple operation of the device, where essentially the user presses the push element for irrigation. As soon as the push element is released, the device will switch back to suction. Furthermore, the use of elastic forces provides for having a defined default position and simplifies the construction of the device. 
         [0015]    In a preferred embodiment, the push element is a push surface comprised by the valve body and the movable element is an elastically deformable element, which is deformable by mechanical force acted upon the push surface. 
         [0016]    In the context of this embodiment, preferably the at least one push surface is elastically deformable, in particular the valve body comprises a large area of an elastically deformable push surface on one side. For example the large area comprises the size of a finger tip or a thumb tip. Basically the complete surface of one side of the valve body may be designed as elastically deformable push surface. The elastically deformable push surface preferably extends over the irrigation passage and the suction passage within the valve body. 
         [0017]    Advantageously, a second push surface, arranged opposite to the first push surface is provided such, that the first and the second push surfaces include the valve assembly in between each other. Thus the valve assembly can be actuated by pressing both sides of the valve body. The push force can be applied from a top side and a bottom side of the body for example. Again, the push surfaces are preferably elastically deformable. Preferentially lateral conjunction surfaces or walls for conjoining top and bottom surfaces are designed less elastically deformable as the at least one push surface. Then the lateral conjunction surfaces stabilize the valve body. 
         [0018]    The valve body can for example be designed of two mold components which when put together form the valve assembly. Preferably the top side and the bottom side each are produced as one mold component. These two components are fixed together along the conjunction surfaces and together built the valve assembly in the interior of the two components. Thus the valve body can be produced in a cheap and simple mannerner. 
         [0019]    Preferably, at least the push surface of the valve body is of an elastomeric material, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer or a silicone elastomer. Most preferably, in the case of a valve body designed of two mold components forming the valve assembly, both mold components are made of such a material. 
         [0020]    The valve body itself may serve as a housing for the valve assembly. Alternatively the valve body is carried by a strong and rigid housing comprising at least one opening through which the at least one push surface of the valve body is accessible. Such the at least one push surface can be activated through the opening. By using a separate housing also very soft materials may be used for the valve body. 
         [0021]    The valve assembly preferably comprises a first valve within the suction passage and a second valve within the irrigation passage, which are commonly deformable by the push surface. Therefore the irrigation passage and the suction passage are provided close to each other such, that the push surface can be operated by the mechanical force of one finger tip and interact simultaneously with both valves. 
         [0022]    In one embodiment the first valve is designed by at least one first closing ledge on an inner wall of the suction passage and an opposing inner surface of the valve body. Alternative to the opposing surface of the body at least one second closing ledge may be provided on an opposing inner wall of the valve body. Preferably at least one of the closing ledges is arranged on an inner wall of the at least one push surface. In the first position of the valve assembly exists a channel between the first closing ledge and the opposing inner surface or the second closing ledge respectively. In the second position the first closing ledge and the opposing inner surface or the second closing ledge contact each other and form a fluid tight closure, when the push surface is pressed. The elasticity of the valve body material assists to create a fluid tight contact of the two ledges or the ledge and the inner wall of the valve body. Even small grooves or slits can be closed by the deformation of the material. Preferably such a valve design is used in the suction passage. 
         [0023]    Advantageously, the second valve comprises at least two elastically deformable lamellas, which project from opposing lateral inner walls and are aligned essentially perpendicular to the push surface. For example the lamellas are provided on a lateral conjunction surface and an internal partition wall, which separates the suction passage from the irrigation passage. Such a valve design is used in the irrigation passage preferably. The front edges of the lamellas can contact each other and form a fluid tight closure in the first position. Basically between the two lamellas there is provided a slit running perpendicular to the push surface and which is fluid tight closed in the first position. In the second deformed position the lamellas form a channel, when the push surface is pressed. Advantageously the elastically deformable lamellas are deformable about two different deformation axes lying essentially perpendicular to each other. One deformation axis may run perpendicular to an axial direction of the irrigation passage and/or perpendicular to the push surface. The other deformation axis may run parallel to the push surface. Therefore the lamellas can be bent in axial direction of the irrigation passage towards lateral walls of the valve body. Also they can be curved in direction of the large area surfaces of the valve body, which leads to curved edges of the tips. By deformation of the lamellas an opening in the middle part of their edges in between them is created. In this embodiment the at least one push surface extends over the at least one closing ledge of the first valve and the lamellas of the second valve. 
         [0024]    Between the suction passage and the irrigation passage an internal partition wall is provided within the valve body. The internal partition wall may comprise two parallel walls with an intermediate cavity in between them. Such the internal partition wall in fact is built of two lateral surfaces of each of the passages. When pressing the push surface the ledge and the lamellas of the valve body and the partition wall are deformed. The intermediate cavity can compensate the differing deformation of the lateral surfaces of each passage and assist the valve assembly to work properly. The intermediate cavity allows sufficient individual flexibility that each lateral surface can be deformed according to the needs of the different valves, because each internal walls of the partition wall can be deformed individually. 
         [0025]    In a preferred embodiment the suction and irrigation device according to the invention comprises an opening, which opens to the suction passage. Preferably, the opening is arranged in the push surface. By opening, closing or partly covering the opening with a finger tip the suction effect in the suction passage can be controlled simultaneously to actuating the valve assembly. The general operation of an opening to the suction passage is known from the prior art. 
         [0026]    Alternatively, the opening to the suction passage is not arranged in the push surface but at another place, e.g. neighboring the push surface or a push element. In principle, the opening may open to the suction passage (i.e. downstream of the valve) or to the passage upstream of the valve. 
         [0027]    Mostly the suction passage and the irrigation passage end in a common distal outlet tube serving as suction/irrigation tube and comprising a distal tip, which is positioned at the operation area. That means the distal tube serves both for suction and irrigation depending on the position of the valve assembly. In the first position, when the suction valve in the suction passage is open, the distal tube acts as a suction channel. In the second position, when the irrigation valve in the irrigation passage is open, the distal tube acts as an irrigation channel. 
         [0028]    In another embodiment the suction and irrigation device comprises separate distal channels for suction and irrigation, which can be provided in a common or separate distal tube. In this case the device can suck and flush the operation area simultaneously by pressing the push surface to a middle position between first and second position. By pressing the push surface only slightly, the suction valve with the closing ledge is not yet completely closed while the irrigation valve with the lamellas already started to open. That means both valves of the valve assembly are open at the same time and irrigation medium can flow to the operation area and liquid can be removed thereof. 
         [0029]    Instead of pressing the push surface directly by finger or thumb the housing, which encompasses the valve body may comprise a lever arrangement or a screw arrangement. The lever arrangement can enlarge manual force to facilitate the compression of the valve body. The screw arrangement may comprise a screw, which is located in a threaded opening within the housing. By screwing the screw into the opening of the housing the inner end of the screw may apply a push force on the push surface. 
         [0030]    Instead of having a push surface comprised by the valve body, the device may comprise a push element which is separate from the valve body, such as a push button or lever. Furthermore, the movable element may be a rigid element allowing for alternately closing the irrigation or the suction passage, respectively. In this case, the movable element, when acted upon by the push element, moves in such a way that the irrigation passage is opened whereas the suction passage is closed. 
         [0031]    Instead of having elastically deformable elements of the valve body, the elastic forces may be exerted by separate elements such as a spring. 
         [0032]    In further preferred embodiments, the movable element is ferromagnetic and the elastic forces are exerted by a magnetic field. As an example, the movable element may be a ball made from a ferromagnetic material, the size of which being adapted to the cross section of the irrigation and suction passages. 
         [0033]    In this context, the irrigation passage is preferably provided with at least one ferromagnetic element, preferably with a ring surrounding the passage. Especially preferred is a ring having a circular outer shape. Either this ferromagnetic element or the movable element or both are permanently magnetized, such that there is an attractive force between these two components. In the case of having a ring surrounding the passage and if the magnetic ring cooperates with a ball made from ferromagnetic material, the diameter of the ferromagnetic ring preferably is in the range of 0.5-2 times the diameter of the magnetic ball, in particular in the range of 0.8-1.2 times the diameter of the magnetic ball. 
         [0034]    However, instead of the ring the irrigation passage may be provided with a single magnetic element which does not or only partially surround the passage, or with a plurality of magnetic elements such as segments, the totality of them surrounding the passage. Alternatively or in addition, the movable element may as well be permanently magnetized. In a further alternative, the irrigation passage is provided with a ferromagnetic but essentially not magnetized element, and just the movable element (such as a ball) is permanently magnetized. 
         [0035]    Using magnetic forces avoids the need for mechanical elements such as springs or dedicated elastic regions of the valve body. Accordingly, the construction may be simplified and/or the durability of the device is enhanced. 
         [0036]    Preferably, upon acting a mechanical force upon the push element the movable magnetic element is moved in a direction parallel to a wall including the irrigation passage until it covers the suction passage. For that purpose, the angle between the axes of the passages is preferably in the range of 80-100°, most preferably 90°. This allows for a simple construction and ensures reliable interaction between the magnetic element and the mouths of the passages being contacted by the movable element. 
         [0037]    These and other objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0038]    Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in the accompanying drawings, which may explain the principles of the invention but shall not limit the scope of the invention. The drawings illustrate: 
           [0039]      FIG. 1  is a 3-dimensional view of a first embodiment of a suction and irrigation device according to the invention; 
           [0040]      FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of a valve body according to the invention; 
           [0041]      FIG. 3A  is a schematical view of a first valve of a valve assembly in an open position; 
           [0042]      FIG. 3B  is a schematical view of the first valve in a closed position; 
           [0043]      FIG. 4A  is a schematical view of a second valve of the valve assembly in a closed position; 
           [0044]      FIG. 4B  is a schematical view of the second valve in an open position; 
           [0045]      FIG. 5A  is a schematical illustration of the operation of a suction and irrigation device according to the invention in a first valve position; 
           [0046]      FIG. 5B  is a schematical illustration of the operation of the suction and irrigation device in an opened first position; 
           [0047]      FIG. 5C  is a schematical illustration of the operation of the suction and irrigation device in a second valve position; 
           [0048]      FIGS. 6A-6D  are schematical illustrations of a valve body and a cover of a second embodiment of a suction and irrigation device according to the invention; 
           [0049]      FIGS. 7A ,  7 B are schematical illustrations of the valves in their suction and irrigation position, respectively; 
           [0050]      FIGS. 8A-8E  are schematical illustrations of a valve body and a cover of a third embodiment of a suction and irrigation device according to the invention; and 
           [0051]      FIGS. 9A ,  9 B are schematical illustrations of the valves in their suction and irrigation position, respectively. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0052]    In general in the figures same elements are indicated with same reference numbers. 
         [0053]    In  FIG. 1 , a first embodiment of a suction and irrigation device  1  is shown comprising a valve body  2  with a connected proximal irrigation pipe  3 , a connected proximal suction pipe  4  and a distally connected suction/irrigation tube  5 . The irrigation pipe  3 , the suction pipe  4  and the suction/irrigation tube  5  are attached to the valve body  2  by connectors, for example a Luer lock or similar port. The valve body  2  is designed as a rectangular body comprising a large area at the top and the bottom and four lateral surfaces connecting top and bottom. The large top area is designed as an elastically deformable push surface  6  according to the invention. The distal lateral surface comprises the distally connected suction/irrigation tube  5  and the proximal lateral surface comprises the proximally connected irrigation and suction pipes  3  and  4 . The size of the large area and the push surface  6  respectively is about 2×2 cm and the height of the lateral surfaces is about 0.5 cm. The valve body is made of silicone and the thickness of the push surface  6  is adapted to create a resiliently deformable surface. 
         [0054]    In  FIG. 2  a cross sectional view of the interior of the valve body  2  is shown. The valve body  2  comprises an irrigation passage  7  and a suction passage  8  running between a first connector  9  for the suction pipe  4  and a second connector  10  for the irrigation pipe  3  on the proximal side and a distal connector  11  for the suction/irrigation tube  5  on the distal side. The irrigation passage  7  and the suction passage  8  are separated within the valve body  2  by a partition wall  12  comprising an intermediate cavity  13 . Near the distal connector  11  irrigation passage  7  and suction passage  8  join to build a common exit channel  14  leading to the suction/irrigation tube  5 . 
         [0055]    The suction passage  8  comprises a first closing ledge  15  arranged on the inner side of the large area surface of the valve body  2 . Opposite to the first closing ledge  15  a second closing ledge  16  is arranged on the inner side of the push surface  6  as can be seen in  FIGS. 3A and 3B . The first and the second ledges  15  and  16  together form a first valve of a valve assembly arranged within the valve body  2 . The irrigation passage  7  comprises two elastically deformable lamellas  17  and  18 , wherein the first lamella  17  is arranged on an inner side of a lateral wall of the valve body  2  and the second lamella  18  is arranged on an inner side of the partition wall  12 . The lamellas  17  and  18  stretch out into the irrigation passage  7  such that their respective tips contact each other. The lamellas  17  and  18  together form a second valve of the valve assembly arranged within the valve body  2 . The push surface  6  extends over the first and second valves of the valve assembly form one lateral wall to the opposing lateral wall of the valve body  2  covering the closing ledges  15  and  16  as well as the lamellas  17  and  18 . The push surface  6  comprises an opening  19  towards the suction passage  8  as can be seen in  FIG. 1 . 
         [0056]    In  FIGS. 3A and 4A  the valves of the valve assembly are shown in a first position corresponding to an initial position without pushing the push surface  6 . In the first position the valve of the suction passage is open and the valve of the irrigation passage is closed. In  FIGS. 3B and 4B  the valves of the valve assembly are shown in a second position corresponding to a push position of the push surface  6 . In the second position the valve of the suction passage is closed and the valve of the irrigation passage is open. 
         [0057]    In the first position a channel exists between the first and the second closing ledges  15  and  16  as shown in  FIG. 3A . That means the valve of the suction passage  8  is open. When the push surface  6  is pressed and compresses the valve body  2  into the second position, the distance between the top and the bottom surface of the valve body  2  is reduced and the first closing ledge  15  contacts the second closing ledge  16  as can be seen in  FIG. 3B . That means the channel between the ledges  15  and  16  is closed and therefore the valve of the suction passage  8  is closed. 
         [0058]    Simultaneously the lamellas  17  and  18  close the irrigation passage  7  in the first initial position as shown in  FIG. 4A . The tips of the lamellas  17  and  18  contact each other and therefore the valve of the irrigation passage  7  is closed. The lamellas  17  and  18  are angled or slightly twisted about an axis perpendicular to the axis of the push surface  6  towards the incoming flow of irrigation fluid. Thus the pressure of irrigation flow presses against the lamellas and forces them into the closing position. When narrowing the distance between the large surfaces of the valve body  2  by pushing the push surface  6  the lamellas  17  and  18  are deformed about an axis parallel to the push surface  6  such that the tips of the lamellas are curved in a concave shape and encompass a channel in between each other. That means the valve of the irrigation passage  7  is open and irrigation fluid can pass through the passage. By pushing the push surface  6  the lateral wall and the opposing partition wall  12  are slightly deformed as well. To guarantee that the deformation of the partition wall  12  caused by opening the lamella valve does not disturb fluid tight closing of the ledge valve, the intermediate cavity  13  may compensate the difference of deformation of the inner partition wall of the suction passage  8  and the inner partition wall of the irrigation passage  7 . 
         [0059]    In  FIG. 5A to 5C  the handling of the suction and irrigation device  1  according to the first embodiment is explained.  FIG. 5A  shows the suction and irrigation device  1  with a schematical illustration of the suction passage  8  inside the valve body  2 . The suction and irrigation device  1  is in a first initial position, wherein the suction passage  8  is open and the irrigation passage  7  is closed. The suction/irrigation tube  5  can be placed at an operation area, wherein liquid is supposed to be drawn off. The suction and irrigation device  1  is held between a thumb and a forefinger, while the thumb closes the opening  19  to the suction passage  8 . The valve body  2  is not compressed in this position. A suction apparatus is connected to the suction pipe, which applies a suction force at the tip of the suction/irrigation tube. Since the opening  19  is closed full power of the suction force is generated at the tip and a strong suction effect acts on the liquid in the operation area. 
         [0060]    To reduce the suction effect in the suction/irrigation tube  5 , the opening  19  in the push surface  6  can be partially or completely opened by lifting the thumb as shown in  FIG. 5B . Such the suction passage  8  is open to the atmosphere and the suction apparatus partly sucks air from the atmosphere. Therefore the suction effect at the tip of the suction/irrigation tube  5  is reduced. 
         [0061]    In  FIG. 5C  the suction and irrigation device  1  is shown with a schematical illustration of the irrigation passage  7  inside the valve body  2  for explanatory reasons although the device does not have to be turned between the fingers. The suction and irrigation device  1  is in the second and compressed position, wherein the push surface  6  is impressed by the thumb to apply a compression force on the valve assembly within the valve body  2 . That means the suction passage  8  is closed and the irrigation passage  7  is opened. The irrigation pipe  3  is connected to an irrigation apparatus providing irrigation fluid for the suction and irrigation device  1 . The irrigation fluid flows through the open irrigation passage  7  and the suction/irrigation tube  5  to the operation area and flushes the area. By releasing the pressure on the push surface  6  the resilient material of the push surface  6  returns to the initial position for opening the suction passage  8  and closing the irrigation passage  7 . Now the irrigation fluid and other liquids may be sucked through the suction/irrigation tube  5 . 
         [0062]    Advantageously it is not necessary take off the fingers from the suction and irrigation device  1  to switch between first and second position of the valve assembly. Thumb and forefinger may stay in place while only the push force between the fingers has to be adapted to change between suction and irrigation position. 
         [0063]    As described before a housing may be provided for encasing the valve body. The push surface can remain accessible for applying a push force and switching valve positions within the housing. Or the housing may comprise additional push elements to push impress the push surface within the housing. In any case a simple actuation of the valve assembly is realized. 
         [0064]    The  FIGS. 6A-6C  are schematical illustrations of a valve body of a second embodiment of a suction and irrigation device according to the invention. The  FIG. 6A  shows a cross-sectional view in a plane at about half the height of the valve body and extending parallel to the top surface as well as two views onto the front and back surfaces of the valve body. The  FIG. 6B  shows a cross-section along the plane A-A perpendicular to the top surface. The  FIG. 6C  shows a cross-section along the plane B-B perpendicular to the top surface as well as to the cross-section of  FIG. 6B . The  FIG. 6D  shows a cover for the valve body. 
         [0065]    The valve body  102  is made from PVC. Its footprint is oblong with straight lateral edges and rounded front (distal) and back (proximal) edges. The base surface  121  of the valve body  102  is continuous over the entire footprint. The top surface  122  features a number of blind hole like openings, namely a valve compartment  123  having a rectangular footprint, arranged close to the front edge (distal edge) of the valve body  102 , angled 45° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the valve body  102 . Further, the top surface  122  features an irrigation compartment  124  having a circular footprint and a suction compartment  125  having an elongated, substantially arc-shaped footprint. Both the irrigation compartment  124  and the suction compartment  125  are arranged proximally with respect to the valve compartment  123 . 
         [0066]    The valve body  102  further comprises a number of bores extending parallel to the base and top surfaces  121 ,  122 , all having a circular cross section. Three of the bores are oriented in parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve body  102 , a first of them, the suction bore  126  leads from the back edge (proximal edge) to the suction compartment  125 . A second of them, the irrigation bore  127  leads from the back edge (proximal edge) to the irrigation compartment  124 . The third of them, the exit bore  128  leads from the front edge (distal edge) to the valve compartment  123 . 
         [0067]    There is a further bore  129  leading in a 45° angle from the front edge (distal edge) to the valve compartment  123 . During manufacture of the valve body  102 , this bore  129  is used for creating a connection bore  130  in the extension of the bore  129 . The connection bore  130  connects the valve compartment  123  with the irrigation compartment  124 . A further bore  131  extends in a direction perpendicular to the bore  129  and the connection bore  130  from the front edge (distal edge) to the valve compartment  123 , and finally a connection bore  132  in the extension of this further bore  131  connects the valve compartment  123  and the suction compartment  125 . The valve body  102  may be easily manufactured from a solid block just featuring the cuboid valve compartment by drilling  9  bores (four perpendicular to the top surface  122 , five parallel to the top surface  122 ). 
         [0068]    In the assembled state, the valve body  102  is covered by a cover  135  made from PVC, matching the footprint of the valve body  102 , featuring a keyhole shaped opening  136  which connects the suction compartment  125  to the exterior. The length of the valve body  102  with attached cover  135  is about 30 mm, the width is about 25 mm, the thickness is about 8 mm 
         [0069]    The  FIG. 7A ,  7 B are schematical illustrations of the valves in their suction and irrigation position, respectively, showing the same cross section as  FIG. 6A . 
         [0070]    The bore  129  used for the manufacture is filled and sealed by a corresponding plug  143 . A ball  140  made from a ferromagnetic material (such as stainless steel) is inserted into the valve compartment  123 . A permanently magnetized ring  141  is accommodated within the connection bore  130  connecting the valve compartment  123  and the irrigation compartment  124 . For that purpose, the diameter of the connection bore  130  is chosen to be larger than that of the other connection bore  132  and the bores leading to the front and back edges, the inside diameter of the magnetized ring  141  corresponds to the diameter of these further bores. Further, a pushing rod  142  made from PEEK is held within the bore  131  leading from the front edge (distal edge) to the valve compartment  123  and extending in the same axis as the connection bore  132  connecting the valve compartment  123  and the suction compartment  125 . 
         [0071]    Usually, the ball  140  is attracted to the permanently magnetized ring  141  and thereby closes the connection bore  130  connecting the valve compartment  123  and the irrigation compartment  124 , i.e. the irrigation passage is closed. The inner edge of the permanently magnetized ring  141  constitutes a valve seat for the ball  140 . At the same time, the suction compartment  125  is connected to the valve compartment  123  by the connection bore  132 , i.e. the suction passage is open. 
         [0072]    By pushing in the pushing rod  142  the ball  140  may be moved to engage the mouth of the connection bore  132  adjacent to the valve compartment  123 , the inner edge of the connection bore  132  constituting another valve seat for the ball  140 . In this second position, the suction passage is closed but the irrigation passage is open. 
         [0073]    The handling of the suction and irrigation device according to the second embodiment essentially corresponds to the handling of the first embodiment explained before. As mentioned, as long as the pushing rod  142  is not operated, the suction and irrigation device is in a first initial position, wherein the suction passage is open and the irrigation passage is closed. The suction/irrigation tube connected to the exit bore  128  can be placed at an operation area, wherein liquid is supposed to be drawn off. The valve body  102  is held between a thumb and a forefinger, while the thumb closes the opening  136  to the suction compartment  125 . A suction apparatus is connected to the suction bore  126  by means of a suitable connector. The suction apparatus applies a suction force at the tip of the suction/irrigation tube. Since the opening  136  is closed full power of the suction force is generated at the tip and a strong suction effect acts on the liquid in the operation area. 
         [0074]    To reduce the suction effect in the suction/irrigation tube, the opening  136  in the cover  135  of the valve body  102  can be partially or completely opened by lifting the thumb. Such the suction compartment  125  is open to the atmosphere and the suction apparatus partly sucks air from the atmosphere. Therefore the suction effect at the tip of the suction/irrigation tube is reduced. 
         [0075]    By pushing the pushing rod  142 , e.g. with an index finger, the suction and irrigation device may be brought to the second position, where the suction passage is closed and the irrigation passage is opened. The irrigation bore  127  is connected to an irrigation apparatus by a suitable connector, the apparatus providing irrigation fluid for the suction and irrigation device. The irrigation fluid flows through the open irrigation passage and the suction/irrigation tube to the operation area and flushes the area. By releasing the pushing rod  142  the magnetic forces attracting the ball  140  will move the ball  140  to the magnetic ring  141 , thereby closing the connection bore  130  to the irrigation compartment  124 . At the same time, by the movement of the ball  140  the pushing rod  142  is moved in an outside direction. Movement of the pushing rod  142  in this direction may be restricted by a small collar resting on the area surrounding the inner mouth of the bore  131  accommodating the pushing rod  142 . The resetting motion of the pushing rod  142  may be supported by an elastic element such as a spring arranged in between a further outside collar of the pushing rod  142  and the outer surface of the valve body  102 . 
         [0076]    The  FIG. 8A-8D  are schematical illustrations of a valve body of a third embodiment of a suction and irrigation device according to the invention. The  FIG. 8A  shows a top view as well as two views onto the front and back surfaces of the valve body. The  FIG. 8B  shows a cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the top surface of the valve body, extending along A-A, the  FIG. 8C  shows a cross-section in a plane parallel thereto, along B-B. The  FIG. 8D  shows a cross-section in a plane parallel to the top surface along C-C. The  FIG. 8E  shows a cover for the valve body. 
         [0077]    The valve body  202  is made from PVC. Its footprint is oblong with straight lateral edges and rounded front (distal) and back (proximal) edges. The base surface  221  of the valve body features a blind hole like opening, namely a suction compartment  225 , having a substantially rectangular footprint. The top surface  222  features two blind hole like openings, namely a valve compartment  223  having a circular footprint, arranged close to the front edge (distal edge) of the valve body  202 , the center of the circle arranged on the longitudinal symmetry axis of the valve body  202 . Further, the top surface  222  features a suction control compartment  238  having a substantially quadratic footprint. The suction control compartment  238  is arranged proximally with respect to the valve compartment  223  and symmetric with respect to the longitudinal axis of the valve body  202 . 
         [0078]    The valve body  202  further comprises a number of bores extending parallel to the base and top surfaces  221 ,  222 , all having a circular cross section. Three of the bores are oriented in parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve body  202 , a first of them, the suction bore  226  leads from the back edge (proximal edge) to the suction compartment  225 . A second of them, the irrigation bore  227  leads from the back edge (proximal edge) to the valve compartment  223 . The third of them, the exit bore  228  leads from the front edge (distal edge) to the valve compartment  223 . 
         [0079]    There are two further bores extending in a perpendicular direction with respect to the base surface  221  and the top surface  222  of the valve body, namely the connection bore  232  connecting the valve compartment  223  and the suction compartment  225  and the connection bore  237  connecting the suction compartment  225  and the suction control compartment  238 , respectively. The connection bore  232  connecting the valve compartment  223  and the suction compartment  225  is arranged on the longitudinal axis of the valve body  202 , in the center of the valve compartment  223 . The other connection bore  237 , connecting the suction compartment  225  and the suction control compartment  238  is arranged close to one of the distal corners of the suction control compartment  238  leading into the suction compartment  225  in a central region thereof, close to the corresponding lateral border. 
         [0080]    In the assembled state, the top surface  221  of the valve body  202  is covered by a top cover  235  made from PVC, matching the footprint of the valve body  202 . The top cover  235  features a keyhole shaped opening  236  which in the assembled state connects the suction control compartment  238  to the exterior. It further comprises a control surface  233  made from a flexible material which in the assembled state is arranged in the region of the valve compartment  223 . The base surface  221  is covered by a base cover  234  matching the footprint of the valve body  202  and having a continuous surface. The length of the valve body  202  with attached top and base covers  234 ,  235  is about 30 mm, the width is about 25 mm and the thickness is about 11 mm. 
         [0081]    The  FIGS. 9A ,  9 B are schematical illustrations of the valves in their suction and irrigation position, respectively. They show the same cross-section as  FIG. 8B . 
         [0082]    A ball  240  made from a ferromagnetic material (such as stainless steel) is inserted into the valve compartment  223 . A permanently magnetized ring  241  is accommodated in the mouth region of the irrigation bore  227  leading into the valve compartment  223 . In order to accommodate the ring  241 , in its mouth region the diameter of the irrigation bore  227  has a correspondingly larger diameter. The inside diameter of the magnetized ring  241  corresponds to the diameter of the main portion of the irrigation bore  227 . 
         [0083]    Usually, the ball  240  is attracted to the permanently magnetized ring  241  and thereby closes the connection of the valve compartment  223  to the irrigation bore  227 , i.e. the irrigation passage is closed. The inner edge of the permanently magnetized ring  241  constitutes a valve seat for the ball  240 . At the same time, the suction compartment  225  is connected to the valve compartment  223  by the connection bore  232 , i.e. the suction passage is open. In the region of the valve compartment  223 , at least in the central region thereof, the top cover  235  is made from a flexible material which allows for pushing the ball  240  along a vertical path in order to displace the ball  240  to block the connection bore  232 , the inner edge of the connection bore  132  constituting another valve seat for the ball  240 . In this second position, the suction passage is closed but the irrigation passage is open. 
         [0084]    The handling of the suction and irrigation device  201  according to the second embodiment essentially corresponds to the handling of the first embodiment explained before. As mentioned, as long as the flexible region of the top cover  235  is not pushed, the suction and irrigation device  201  is in a first initial position, wherein the suction passage is open and the irrigation passage is closed. The suction/irrigation tube connected to the exit bore  228  can be placed at an operation area, wherein liquid is supposed to be drawn off. The valve body  202  is held between a thumb and a forefinger, while the thumb closes the opening  236  to the suction control compartment  238  connected to the suction compartment  225 . A suction apparatus is connected to the suction bore  226  by means of a suitable connector. The suction apparatus applies a suction force at the tip of the suction/irrigation tube. Since the opening  236  is closed full power of the suction force is generated at the tip and a strong suction effect acts on the liquid in the operation area. 
         [0085]    To reduce the suction effect in the suction/irrigation tube, the opening  236  in the top cover  235  of the valve body  202  can be partially or completely opened by lifting the thumb. Such the suction compartment  225  is open to the atmosphere and the suction apparatus partly sucks air from the atmosphere. Therefore the suction effect at the tip of the suction/irrigation tube is reduced. 
         [0086]    By pushing the control surface  233  of the top cover  235 , e.g. with the thumb, the suction and irrigation device may be brought to the second position, where the suction passage is closed and the irrigation passage is opened. The irrigation bore  227  is connected to an irrigation apparatus by a suitable connector, the apparatus providing irrigation fluid for the suction and irrigation device. The irrigation fluid flows through the open irrigation passage and the suction/irrigation tube to the operation area and flushes the area. By releasing the control surface  233  it will reset to its initial state due to the elasticity of the material and the magnetic forces attracting the ball  240  will move the ball  240  to the magnetic ring  241 , thereby closing the irrigation bore  227 . 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 List of reference symbols 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 1 
                 Suction and irrigation device 
               
               
                 2 
                 Valve body 
               
               
                 3 
                 Irrigation pipe 
               
               
                 4 
                 Suction pipe 
               
               
                 5 
                 Suction/irrigation tube 
               
               
                 6 
                 Push surface 
               
               
                 7 
                 Irrigation passage 
               
               
                 8 
                 Suction passage 
               
               
                 9 
                 First connector 
               
               
                 10 
                 Second connector 
               
               
                 11 
                 Distal connector 
               
               
                 12 
                 Partition wall 
               
               
                 13 
                 Intermediate cavity 
               
               
                 14 
                 Exit channel 
               
               
                 15 
                 First closing ledge 
               
               
                 16 
                 Second closing ledge 
               
               
                 17 
                 Lamella 
               
               
                 18 
                 Lamella 
               
               
                 19 
                 Opening 
               
               
                 102 
                 Valve body 
               
               
                 121 
                 Base surface 
               
               
                 122 
                 Top surface 
               
               
                 123 
                 Valve compartment 
               
               
                 124 
                 Irrigation compartment 
               
               
                 125 
                 Suction compartment 
               
               
                 126 
                 Suction bore 
               
               
                 127 
                 Irrigation bore 
               
               
                 128 
                 Exit bore 
               
               
                 129 
                 Bore 
               
               
                 130 
                 Connection bore 
               
               
                 131 
                 Bore 
               
               
                 132 
                 Connection bore 
               
               
                 135 
                 Cover 
               
               
                 136 
                 Opening 
               
               
                 140 
                 Ball 
               
               
                 141 
                 Ring 
               
               
                 142 
                 Pushing rod 
               
               
                 143 
                 Plug 
               
               
                 201 
                 Suction and irrigation device 
               
               
                 202 
                 Valve body 
               
               
                 221 
                 Base surface 
               
               
                 222 
                 Top surface 
               
               
                 223 
                 Valve compartment 
               
               
                 225 
                 Suction compartment 
               
               
                 226 
                 Suction bore 
               
               
                 227 
                 Irrigation bore 
               
               
                 228 
                 Exit bore 
               
               
                 232 
                 Connection bore 
               
               
                 233 
                 Control surface 
               
               
                 234 
                 Base cover 
               
               
                 235 
                 Top cover 
               
               
                 236 
                 Opening 
               
               
                 237 
                 Connection bore 
               
               
                 238 
                 Suction control compartment 
               
               
                 240 
                 Ball 
               
               
                 241 
                 Ring 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0087]    While the system, apparatus, process and method herein described constitute preferred embodiments of this invention, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to this precise system, apparatus, process and method, and that changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention which is defined in the appended claims.