AGENT ADMINISTERING MEDICAL DEVICE

A medical device that comprises an enclosure defining a cavity for containing an agent, a lumen for receiving a pressurized fluid, a channel between the cavity and the lumen, and a barrier positioned in the channel and defining a space, wherein in a first position of the barrier, the space is in fluid communication with the cavity to receive the agent from the cavity, and wherein the barrier is configured to rotate from the first position to a second position in which the space is in fluid communication with the lumen to deliver the agent from the space to the lumen.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to a medical device that administers an agent. More particularly, at least some embodiments of the disclosure relate to a medical device including a system that administers a dosage of an agent to a lumen via, for example, a rotatable mechanism.

BACKGROUND

In certain medical procedures, it may be necessary to stop or minimize bleeding internal to the body. For example, an endoscopic medical procedure may require hemostasis of bleeding tissue within the gastrointestinal tract, for example in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

During an endoscopic procedure, a user inserts a sheath of an endoscope into a body lumen of a patient. The user utilizes a handle of the endoscope to control the endoscope during the procedure. Tools are passed through a working channel of the endoscope via, for example, a port in the handle, to deliver treatment at the procedure site near a distal end of the endoscope. The procedure site is remote from the operator.

To achieve hemostasis at the remote site, a hemostatic agent may be delivered by a device inserted into the working channel of the endoscope. Agent delivery may be achieved through mechanical systems, for example. Such systems, however, may require numerous steps or actuations to achieve delivery, may not achieve a desired rate of agent delivery or a desired dosage of agent, may result in the agent clogging portions of the delivery device, may result in inconsistent dosing of agent, or may not result in the agent reaching the treatment site deep within the GI tract. This disclosure may solve one or more of these issues or other issues in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to an example, a medical device may comprise an enclosure defining a cavity for containing an agent, a lumen for receiving a pressurized fluid, a channel between the cavity and the lumen, and a barrier positioned in the channel and defining a space. In a first position of the barrier, the space may be in fluid communication with the cavity to receive the agent from the cavity. The barrier may be configured to rotate from the first position to a second position in which the space may be in fluid communication with the lumen to deliver the agent from the space to the lumen.

In another example, the space may be a first space of a plurality of spaces of the barrier, and wherein in the first position of the barrier, the first space may be in fluid communication with the lumen to deliver the agent from the first space, and a second space of the plurality of spaces may be in fluid communication with the cavity to receive the agent. The barrier may seal the cavity from the lumen, inhibiting the pressurized fluid of the lumen from entering into the cavity.

In another example, a medical device may further comprise at least one seal defining at least a portion of the channel, wherein the at least one seal contacts the barrier to inhibit the agent from entering the lumen without entering the space, and to inhibit the agent from exiting the space prior to the barrier being in the second position.

In another example, a medical device may further comprise a second channel between the cavity and the lumen. A medical device may further comprise a second barrier positioned in the second channel and defining a second barrier space, wherein in a first position of the second barrier, the second barrier space is in fluid communication with the cavity to receive the agent from the cavity, and wherein the second barrier is configured to rotate from the first position to a second position in which the second barrier space is in fluid communication with the lumen to deliver the agent from the second barrier space to the lumen.

According to another example, a medical device may further comprise a turbine positioned within the lumen so that the pressurized fluid rotates the turbine, and rotation of the turbine rotates the barrier from the first position to the second position.

In another example, the barrier may be a wheel, wherein the wheel includes an axis and a plurality of paddles extending from the axis, and wherein a gap between adjacent paddles defines the space. In another example, the barrier may be an auger, and wherein a gap between adjacent blades of the auger defines the space.

In another example, the barrier may be a ball valve, wherein the ball valve includes at least one pair of prongs and a gap between the prongs defines the space. The at least one pair of prongs may include a first and second pairs of prongs diametrically opposed across the ball valve, and the gap between the prongs in the first pair of prongs defines a first space, and the gap between the prongs in the second pair of prongs defines a second space.

According to an example, a rotation of the barrier may be actuated by a mechanical system or a hydraulic system associated with the medical device. The lumen may be a flexible catheter capable of traversing a tortuous body lumen, and further comprising a source of the pressurized fluid. The barrier may be configured to rotate from the first position to a second position via both clockwise rotation and counterclockwise rotation. The barrier may be configured to rotate at least one of 90° or 180°, to transition from the first position to the second position.

In another example, a medical device may comprise an enclosure defining a cavity for containing the agent, a lumen for receiving a pressurized fluid, and a barrier defining a space and positioned to inhibit fluid communication between the cavity and the lumen. In a first position of the barrier, the space may be in fluid communication with the cavity to receive the agent from the cavity, and the barrier may configured to rotate from the first position to a second position in which the space is in fluid communication with the lumen to deliver the agent from the space to the lumen. The barrier may be a ball valve, and the ball valve may include at least one pair of prongs and a gap between the prongs defines the space. The ball valve may be positioned in the lumen below the cavity, and the ball valve may be configured to rotate counterclockwise to rotate from the first position to the second position. The barrier may be configured to rotate 90° to transition from the first position to the second position.

According to an example, a method of administering an agent via a medical device, the medical device including a lumen, an enclosure defining a cavity containing the agent, and a barrier within a channel between the cavity and the lumen, the method may include: positioning a distal end of the lumen adjacent to a target site, wherein the barrier defines a space that receives and stores the agent from the cavity, providing a pressurized fluid to the lumen, and rotating the barrier relative to the lumen so that fluid communication is established between the space and the lumen to deliver the agent from the space to the lumen.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to aspects of the disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or similar reference numbers will be used through the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. The term “distal” refers to a portion farthest away from a user when introducing a device into a subject (e.g., patient). By contrast, the term “proximal” refers to a portion closest to the user when placing the device into the subject.

Embodiments of the disclosure may solve one or more of the limitations in the art. The scope of the disclosure, however, is defined by the attached claims and not the ability to solve a specific problem. The disclosure is drawn to medical devices configured to administer doses of agents, e.g., therapeutic agents, among other aspects. The agent may be in any suitable form, including a powder form, which may be delivered to a stream of propellant/pressurized fluid, e.g., CO2, nitrogen, air, or other liquids, etc. Said medical devices allow for the administration of agents in metered doses, which allows for a greater consistency in the quantity of the agent that reaches a target site.

Referring toFIG. 1A, a medical system5, e.g., including an endoscope, according to an embodiment is shown. Medical system5includes a flexible shaft50(e.g., a catheter) and a handle52connected at a proximal end of flexible shaft50. Handle52, or some other device for actuating or controlling medical system5and any tool or devices associated with medical system5, includes first and second actuating devices42,43, which control articulation of flexible shaft50, and/or an articulation joint at a distal end of flexible shaft50, in multiple directions. Devices42,43, may be, for example, rotatable knobs that rotate about their axes to push/pull actuating elements (not shown). The actuating elements, such as cables or wires suitable for medical procedures (e.g., medical grade plastic or metal), extend distally from a proximal end of medical system5and connect to flexible shaft50to control movement thereof. Alternatively, or additionally, a user may operate actuating elements independently of handle52. Distal ends of actuating elements may extend through flexible shaft50and terminate at an articulation joint and/or a distal tip of flexible shaft50. For example, one or more actuating elements may be connected to an articulation joint, and actuation of actuating elements may control the articulation joint or the distal end of flexible shaft50to move in multiple directions.

In addition, one or more electrical cables (not shown) may extend from the proximal end of endoscope5to the distal end of flexible shaft50and may provide electrical controls to imaging, lighting, and/or other electrical devices at the distal end of flexible shaft50, and may carry imaging signals from the distal end of flexible shaft50proximally to be processed and/or displayed on a display. Handle52may also include ports54,46for introducing and/or removing tools, fluids, or other materials from the patient. Port54may be used to introduce tools. Port46may be connected to an umbilicus for introducing fluid, suction, and/or wiring for electronic components. For example, as shown inFIG. 1A, port54receives a tube100, which extends from the proximal end to the distal end of flexible shaft50, via a working channel50aof shaft50.

As shown inFIG. 1A, tube100of medical device1is attached to a pressurized fluid source56, e.g., CO2, which may be controlled by a user to turn on/off and to adjust a rate at which fluid flows into tube100. Source56may be a fluid canister or tank, a source of fluid supplied by a medical facility, or any other suitable source. Medical device1further includes an enclosure10. A channel12(FIG. 1B) is positioned between enclosure10and tube100. Enclosure10and channel12are coupled to a proximal portion of tube100, distal of the connection between tube100and source56.

FIG. 1Billustrates an embodiment of a portion of medical device1inFIG. 1Ain further detail. As discussed above, medical device1includes enclosure10defining a cavity for containing an agent1000, a tube (e.g., a catheter or a sheath)100defining a lumen102receiving pressurized fluid, e.g., CO2, from a proximal end, and a channel12positioned between the cavity of enclosure10and lumen102. The shape or size of enclosure10is not particularly limited, and may be any suitable shape or size for storing an amount of agent1000. In medical device1, a bottom portion of enclosure10tapers into channel12. Channel12extends from the bottom of enclosure10to lumen102, thereby providing a passage for agent1000to travel from channel12to lumen102. Channel12is of a smaller width, diameter, and/or cross-sectional area than that of enclosure10. However, the shape and dimensions of channel12is not particularly limited. Channel12includes a metering wheel16and seals18partially surrounding wheel16.

Wheel16is positioned between a first end12aand a second end12bof channel12, and is oriented so that the rotational axis13of wheel16is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the width w of channel12. Wheel16may be rotatable in a clockwise or a counter-clockwise direction. Wheel16includes six spokes17, all of which extend radially outward from axis13. Spokes17are paddle-like and rectangular in shape, as shown inFIG. 1C. Spokes17are of a length that is equal to or about equal to the distance from axis13to curved seals18. Thus, spokes17are of a length so that radially outward ends of spokes17are in constant or near constant contact with seals18(except when said spokes17are directed towards end12aor end12b, between seals18). Such contact prevents, agent1000from falling unimpeded through channel12to lumen102from enclosure10. Furthermore, such contact inhibits the air/pressurized fluid from lumen102from entering into enclosure10and reaching agent1000. Thus, agent1000of enclosure10is protected and sealed from the pressurized fluid source from lumen102. Spokes17may be of any suitable material, e.g., rubber, that may help provide a proper seal along the edges of seals18and also inhibit adherence of agent1000to spokes17. Spokes17may additionally include flanges17a, as shown inFIGS. 1C-1D, on the ends adjacent to seals18to further facilitate sealing with seals18. In this instance, however, wheel16would preferably rotate counter-clockwise so that the protruding ends of flanges17ado not catch against the ends and/or surfaces of seals18, thereby inhibiting rotation of wheel16. Furthermore,FIG. 1Cshows that, in some embodiments, diametrically opposed spokes17of wheel16are of a single, monolithic piece with rotational axis13coupled to a midpoint of the piece. Axis13is coupled along the width of said piece to form two spokes17that are equal in length.FIG. 1Dshows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the side of channel12. As shown, spokes17(not shown due to flanges17a) and flanges17aare evenly spaced apart to form buckets19of equal size. Furthermore, there is tight tolerance between walls12aof channel12and flanges17a, such that flanges17aand walls12aare in contact, or in near contact with one another. This further seals enclosure10from the air/fluid supplied to lumen102, and lumen102from agent1000disposed in enclosure10.

Spokes17are evenly distributed about axis13so that equal spaces, or buckets19, are formed between spokes17. Buckets19are configured to receive and store amounts of agent1000from enclosure10. As empty buckets19are rotated underneath enclosure10, agent feeds1000into buckets19via gravity or any suitable means. Furthermore, buckets19dispense agent1000as loaded buckets19are rotated, via rotation of wheel16, to face and empty agent1000into lumen102, again due to gravity or any suitable means. Buckets19may be sized so that a number of buckets19, e.g., one, is of an appropriate size to contain a desired dosage of agent1000. For example, an appropriate dose may be between about 0.1 to 1 g of agent1000, for every second of fluid (e.g., gas) delivery in lumen102.

Each seal18has a curved radially-inward, concave surface to accommodate for spokes17. Seals18are positioned to partially surround wheel16and to provide a seal between first end12aand second end12bof channel12. Thus, seals18inhibit agent1000from falling into lumen102without passing through wheel16, and also inhibit agent1000from spilling out of buckets19prior to the intended agent-dispensing period. Furthermore, seals18also help inhibit air/pressurized fluid from entering into enclosure10and reaching agent1000. Seals18may be of any suitable materials, e.g., silicon rubber, to provide a suitable seal with spokes17.

It is noted that the metering mechanism of medical device1is not limited to wheel16. Any suitable, rotatable mechanism may be used to receive and dispense a dose of agent1000. For example, a spherical wheel16′, as shown inFIG. 1E, may be used as the metering mechanism, in place of wheel16, within channel12. Wheel16′ includes a plurality of paddles17′, e.g., six, extending from axis13. Each paddle17′ is partially-circular (e.g., a half-circle) or dome-shaped. Paddles17′ collectively outline a sphere. To form such a shape, paddles17′ may be formed from a plurality of monolithic, circular or disk-shaped pieces with axis13coupled to midpoints of the pieces along the diameters of said pieces. Thus, a single monolithic circular piece may form two paddles17′ of equal size and shape that are diametrically opposed to one another. Moreover, like spokes17, paddles17′ may be spaced apart evenly about axis13to form buckets19of equal sizes between adjacent paddles17′. Thus, wheel16′ may function in the same manner as wheel16, and may also be surrounded by seals18.

Wheel16may be rotated via any suitable mechanism, e.g., gearing actuated by a mechanical trigger, liquid-pushed hydraulic, spring compression/winding, motor, etc., and is not particularly limited. For example, in some embodiments, axis13, about which wheel16rotates, may be coupled to a gear (not shown), which may be connected to a geared lever (not shown). Such a geared lever may be actuated, e.g., pulled, to rotate the gear of axis13, thereby rotating wheel16. Actuation of a trigger/lever may result in a continuous rotation of wheel16, or a consistent degree of rotation per actuation, e.g., a pull. A similar gearing mechanism is further discussed below, when referring toFIG. 3B, and may be used to rotate wheel16. In some other embodiments, axis13may be coupled to a hydraulic system via any suitable means, so that said hydraulic system may actuate rotation of wheel16about axis13, thereby dispensing agent1000. This may also result in a continuous delivery of agent1000, per a cycle of the hydraulic system. An example of a hydraulic system200is shown inFIG. 5, which is described in further detail below.

Referring toFIG. 1B, an example of how medical device1may be used is further discussed below. A user may deliver a distal end of tube100of medical device1into the body of a subject, e.g., via a natural orifice (such as a mouth or anus) and through a tortuous natural body lumen of the subject, such as an esophagus, stomach, colon, etc. Tube100may be delivered in any suitable way, for example, through working channel50aof endoscope5, by inserting a distal end of tube100into port54of endoscope5. A user may direct/position the distal end of tube100to an intended target site for administration of agent1000. A user may then fill enclosure10with agent1000, if not filled already. A user may then rotate wheel16by any suitable actuating mechanism that is incorporated with medical device1, e.g., geared lever/trigger, hydraulic, spring compression/winding, motor, thereby filling one or more buckets19with agent1000and administering a metered dose of agent1000to lumen102. A user may turn on the pressurized fluid source at any suitable time to supply pressurized fluid until the metered dose of agent1000reaches the target tissue site. Alternatively, a user may start supply of pressurized fluid after the supply of agent1000to lumen102. For example, a user may supply agent1000to lumen102, supply pressurized fluid to lumen102to propel the supplied agent1000towards the distal end of lumen102, and then repeat the aforementioned steps. In other examples, a user may engage an actuation mechanism that simultaneously rotates wheel16and also turns on the pressurized fluid source to flow pressurized fluid through lumen100.

Medical device1′, as shown inFIG. 2A, is similar to device1in many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. Differences between device1and device1′ will be described below. Device1′ includes a rotatable auger26within a cylindrical or tubular channel12as the metering mechanism, instead of wheel16of device1. Auger26is positioned vertically within channel12so that rotational axis13is aligned with the central axis of channel12. Auger26includes a spirally arranged blade27that coils around rotational axis13from top to bottom. Furthermore, the diameter of auger26may be equal to or around the width between the inner surface of tubular channel12. As a result, blade27juts radially outward from axis13by a distance so that blade27is in constant contact with the inner surface of channel12. Thus, blade27may prevent agent1000from falling into lumen102unimpeded, without passing through auger26. Furthermore, blade27also inhibits the air/pressurized fluid from lumen102from entering into enclosure10.

The coiling/spiraling and pitch of blade27is such that the spacing between each coil is equal or approximately equal so that an even, consistent section29is formed throughout auger26, between said adjacent coils of blade27. It is noted that section29is a fluid channel that runs spirally downwards between two adjacent coils of blade27. Section29is configured to receive and store amounts of agent1000from enclosure10, which may be mechanically or gravity-fed to auger26. The rotation of auger16may spirally descend agent1000, held within section29, and dispense agent1000into lumen102. The width of section29, e.g., the distance or pitch between adjacent coils of blade27, may be such that said width, along with the rate of rotation, may dispense a desired dosage of agent1000. Furthermore, the dimension of section29and the rate of rotation may be tailored to meet a predetermined or selected dose range. For example, an appropriate dose range may be between about 0.1 to 1 g of agent1000, for every second of fluid delivery in lumen102.

FIGS. 2B-2Cshow a top barrier25aand a bottom barrier25bthat may be implemented within channel12, respectively at a top and a bottom of channel12(not shown inFIG. 2A). Top barrier25a, shown inFIG. 2B, may be a flat barrier that is placed above auger26at about the entrance of channel12. Top barrier25amay be coupled to axis13at its center point, and barrier25aincludes an opening leading to channel12and auger26. Said opening is equal to or about equal to a sector that is one-eighth of the area of the opening of channel12. In other embodiments, top barrier25amay not be coupled to axis13and instead may be fixed to the walls of channel12. In such embodiments, top barrier25awill not rotate with auger26. Bottom barrier25b, shown inFIG. 2C, may be below auger26at about the end/exit of channel12. Bottom barrier25bmay also be coupled to axis13at its center point. Barrier25bincludes an opening leading to lumen102. The opening of barrier25bmay be the same size or about a similar size as that of barrier25a. In other embodiments, bottom barrier25bmay not be coupled to axis13and instead may be fixed to the walls of channel12, so that barrier25bwill not rotate with auger26. Top barrier25aand bottom barrier25bmay be oriented relative to one another such that their respective openings mirror one another and do not overlie one another. Thus, top barrier25ais open where bottom barrier25bis closed, and vice versa. Top barrier25aand bottom barrier25bmay not only control the amount of agent1000entering and exiting channel12, but also help sequester agent1000in enclosure10from the fluid stream in lumen102.

Like wheel16of medical device1, auger26may be rotated via any suitable mechanism, e.g., gearing actuated by a mechanical trigger, liquid-pushed hydraulic, spring compression/winding, motor, etc., and is not particularly limited. Thus, medical device1′ may be used in a similar manner as medical device1, except a user rotates auger26.

FIG. 2Dillustrates an example of an alternative configuration of medical device1′. In this configuration, a proximal portion of channel12and auger26are positioned horizontally, relative to enclosure10. From its initial horizontal orientation, a distal portion of channel12curves downward to fluidly connect to lumen100, thereby allowing agent1000to fall downward towards lumen100. Auger26is also parallel, or about parallel, to lumen100. Furthermore, blade27juts radially outward by a distance so that blade27is in contact with the inner surface of channel12. However, apart from the previously described structural differences, the configuration of medical device1′ shown inFIG. 2Boperates in the same manner as the configuration illustrated inFIG. 2A.

Medical device1″, as shown inFIG. 3A, is similar to device1in many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. Differences between device1and device1″ will be described below. Device1″ includes a rotatable ball valve36as the dosing mechanism. However, valve36is not limited to being a ball-shape, and may be other suitable shapes. Valve36includes rotational axis13, which is aligned with the diameter of ball valve36that is perpendicular to the width of channel12. Valve36further includes two pairs of prongs,36a-36band36c-36d, that are diametrically opposed, across axis13. In other embodiments, valve36may have only one pair of prongs or additional pairs of prongs. The void between the prongs in each pair forms a bucket39configured to receive and store agent1000. Thus, valve36includes two buckets39up to approximately 180° apart. However, valve36is not limited to two buckets39, as previously described, and in some embodiments may have one bucket39or additional buckets39, spaced at any desired interval about valve36. Furthermore, the two dome-shaped portions of valve36between diametrically opposed prongs, e.g.,36aand36c,36band36d, form flanges37. Ball valve36may be of a diameter so that at least some portion of valve36is in constant, or near constant, contact with seals18or, in embodiments without seals, the inner surfaces of channel12. Valve36may be of any suitable material. Thus, valve36may serve as a barrier between lumen102and enclosure10, thereby inhibiting fluid, e.g., gas, from undesirably mixing with the contents of enclosure10.

The openings of buckets39, that are to be in connection with channel12, are of a width that is at least equal to the width of an opening of channel12leading to valve36. Thus, all of agent1000from enclosure10traveling through channel12is received within buckets39, without any agent1000falling outside of buckets39. Buckets39may be sized appropriately so that a number of buckets39, e.g., one or two, is an appropriate dosage of agent1000. The dimensions of buckets39may also be tailored to meet a predefined, predetermined or selected dose per rotation or a number of rotations. For example, an appropriate dose range may be between about 0.1 to 1 g of agent1000, or about 0.2 to 0.5 g of agent1000, for every second of fluid delivery in lumen102. Flanges37are of a width that sufficiently covers and seals channel12as flanges37rotationally pass by the proximal and distal openings of channel12. As a result, flanges37inhibit additional or excess agent1000from falling from enclosure10to lumen102.

Seals18″ may be similar to seals18in some respects. For example, the inner surfaces of seals18″ may be curved to accommodate for the spherical shape of ball valve36. Seals18″ are positioned to partially or fully surround valve36and to provide a seal around channel12so that agent1000is inhibited from falling anywhere outside of buckets39, and fluid (e.g., CO2) is inhibited from entering enclosure10. Thus, seals18″ inhibit agent1000from falling unimpeded into lumen102without passing through valve36, and also inhibit agent1000from spilling out of buckets39prior to the intended agent-dispensing period.

Referring toFIG. 3B, a mechanical mechanism of medical device1″, by which valve36rotates, is further described below. Valve36rotates via a mechanism including a handle31, a lever32, a pivot33, and an axis gear35. Handle31is fixed relative to enclosure10, channel12, and tube100. Handle31is not particularly limited, and may include any suitable handle grip31a. Handle31further includes a flat, triangular head31b, which includes two openings—one on a distal portion of head31band the other on a relatively proximal portion of head31b. Said proximal opening accommodates rotational axis13. Handle31remains stationary about axis13, but axis13may rotate within head31bvia a rotational force exerted thereon. Axis gear35is coupled onto the end portion of rotational axis13protruding out of said proximal opening on head31b. Axis gear35may be coupled onto rotational axis13so that rotation of gear35may cause simultaneous rotation of axis13, which in turn rotates valve36(seeFIG. 3A; note thatFIG. 3Bdoes not show valve36, so that axis13can be shown). Lever32includes a handle portion32aand a head portion32b. Handle portion32ais not particularly limited. Head32bincludes a plurality of teeth34, which are engage with axis gear35. Head32balso includes an opening that is to be aligned with an opening of the handle head31b. Pivot33may be any suitable pivot, and is positioned in the aligned openings so that pivot33pivotably couples lever head32bto handle head31b. Furthermore, pivot33may also be spring-loaded (not shown), so that lever32may revert to its original position after pivoting towards handle31.

Medical device1″ may be used in a similar manner as medical device1, except a user actuates lever32, e.g., pivoting lever32towards handle31. This causes head32bto rotate about pivot33. This, in turn, causes the plurality of teeth34engaged with axis gear35to rotate axis gear35by a predetermined or selected degree, e.g., 180°, thereby rotating valve36per each pump of lever32. The rotation of valve36may proceed in a single direction (clockwise or counter-clockwise 180°), or alternate clockwise and counter-clockwise 180°, via each actuation and subsequent release of lever32). In exemplary embodiments, in which rotation of valve36proceeds in a single direction, any suitable ratcheting mechanism may be employed to limit the rotary motion of valve36to only one direction. In other examples, the above-described mechanism may further include a motor in connection with gear35and lever32, along with any other additional components, so that a mechanism may be configured to result in continuous rotation of axis gear35and valve36by a pull of lever32, until lever32is released.

However, it is noted that medical device1″ is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, in some embodiments, valve36may be in lumen102, directly below channel12. In such a configuration, there may be fluid communication from enclosure10to bucket39, via channel12. Valve36, after one of buckets39is loaded, may only need to rotate 90° (or about 90°) counter-clockwise, to dispense agent1000from one of buckets39to lumen102. Furthermore, in this configuration, valve36or lumen102may include additional means by which the fluid stream, from a proximal end of lumen102, may reach the dispensed agent1000and propel agent1000towards a distal end of lumen102. For example, lumen102may have a diameter that is large enough to accommodate both valve36and a gap between valve36and an inner surface of tube100for air/pressurized fluid to flow through. For example, valve36may be placed within lumen102so that valve36is adjacent to and just below the exit of channel12(i.e., the opening of channel12nearest lumen102), and air may flow underneath valve36via the aforementioned gap. Thus, the air may propel agent1000towards a distal end of lumen102as soon as loaded valve36rotates counter-clockwise to dispense agent1000. In another example, valve36may further include a passage, which may be substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of buckets39, and which may extend between buckets39(from a radially inner edge of one bucket39to a radially inner edge of the other bucket39). A porous structure, e.g., a screen/filter, may be disposed within the passage. Alternatively, a body of valve36itself may define a porous structure, such that a separate screen/filter is not required. The passage may be misaligned from the air/pressurized fluid flow, such that the air/pressurized fluid flow may not enter the passage, while one of buckets39is loaded with agent1000. When valve36rotates 90° (or about 90°) to dispense agent1000, air/pressurized fluid may flow through buckets39and the passage of valve36to propel agent1000distally. The opening(s) of the porous structure, e.g., screen/filter, should be small enough so that agent1000remains contained in buckets39, without falling through the opening(s) into the passage, while one of the buckets39is loaded with agent1000. In an alternative, valve36may include only one bucket39, and the passage may terminate at one end in an opening in a surface of valve36, opposite bucket39. In other exemplary embodiments, medical device1″ may be without channel12, so that enclosure10is adjacently above valve36(in lumen102).

Additional examples of different medical device1″a-dconfigurations are illustrated inFIGS. 3C-3J, and are further described below. It is noted that all the configurations described below may rotate via any suitable mechanism, including the gearing mechanism shown inFIG. 3Bor suitable variations thereof.

FIGS. 3C-3Dillustrate a configuration1″asimilar to medical device1″ shown inFIG. 3A, except valve36′ has only one bucket39to receive and store agent1000.FIG. 3Cshows a closed position of configuration1″ain which bucket39is filled with agent1000and flange37seals enclosure10from lumen102.FIG. 3Dshows an open position in which valve36′ is rotated 180° so that bucket39faces lumen102, thereby dispensing agent1000into lumen102.

FIGS. 3E-3Fillustrate a configuration1″bin which enclosure10and valve36′ are oriented at an angle relative to channel12and lumen102. The central axis of enclosure10is transverse to the central axis of channel12. Configuration1″bfurther includes a seal18that is positioned between enclosure10and channel12. Due to seal18, agent1000is inhibited from directly falling out from enclosure10to channel12. Furthermore, agent1000is also inhibited from spilling out of bucket39as valve36′ rotates to dispense agent1000from bucket39to lumen102.FIG. 3Eshows a closed position of configuration1″bsimilar to that shown inFIG. 3C.FIG. 3Fshows an open position in which valve36′ is rotated 90° counter-clockwise, so that bucket39faces channel12, thereby dispense agent1000into lumen102. Thus, compared to some other embodiments, less rotation of valve36′ is needed in configuration1″bto release agent1000from bucket39.

FIGS. 3G-3Hillustrate a configuration1″csimilar to medical device1″ shown inFIG. 3A, except configuration1″cincludes a first channel12aand a second channel12b. First channel12aand second channel12bare linear (though they may be curved) and are positioned so that fluid communication between both buckets39and lumen102may be established when valve36is rotated. Channel12ais distal to valve36while channel12bis proximal to valve36. The central axes of channels12aand12bare transverse to the central axis of enclosure10and the axes of lumen102. The angle at which channel12aconnects to lumen102is equivalent to or about equivalent to the angle at which channel12bconnects to lumen102, though this is not required. It is noted that agent1000may dispense into channel12aor channel12bdepending on the counterclockwise or clockwise rotation of valve36respectively. The incorporation of two channels12aand12balso allows device1″ to continue to function in the chance that one of channels12aor12bclogs, rotation of valve36is inhibited in one of the directions, or some other malfunction prevents use of one of the channels12a,12b. Configuration1″cfurther includes seals18that are positioned between enclosure10and channel12aand enclosure10and channel12b. Due to such placement of seals18, agent1000is inhibited from spilling out of buckets39as valve36rotates to dispense agent1000from bucket19to channel12aor channel12b.FIG. 3Gshows a closed position of configuration1″csimilar to that shown inFIG. 3C.FIG. 3Hshows an open position in which valve36is rotated 90° counter-clockwise, so that agent1000from loaded bucket19is dispensed into first channel12a. Alternatively, in some instances, valve36may rotate 90° clockwise so that agent1000from loaded bucket39is dispensed into second channel12b. Thus, similar to configuration1″b, less rotation of valve36′ is needed in configuration1″c, compared to some other embodiments, to release agent1000from bucket39into channel12aor12b.

FIGS. 31-3Jillustrate a configuration1″dsimilar to configuration1″ashown inFIG. 3C, except configuration1″dincludes a first channel12aand a second channel12b(like configuration1″c), and a first valve36′aand a second valve36′bcorresponding to each channel12a,12brespectively. First channel12aand second channel12bare linear (like configuration1″c) (though they may be curved), and the central axis of channels12aand12bare transverse to the central axis of enclosure10and the axes of lumen102. Channel12ais distal relative to channel12b, and likewise, channel12aleads to a more distal portion of lumen102than does channel12b. Channels12aand12bare angled relative to enclosure10(like channels12a,12b, inFIGS. 3G-3H) so that a triangular gap is formed in between channels12a,12b, and lumen100. The angle at which channel12aconnects to lumen102is equivalent to or about equivalent to the angle at which channel12bconnects to lumen102, though this is not required. First valve36′aand a second valve36′bare respectively positioned within channels12aand12b, similar to configuration1″a. Because of the presence of two, separate valves,36′aand36′b, agent1000may be dispensed simultaneously via channels12aand12b. This configuration may also provide for a more careful dosage means by allowing independent actuation of only one of the valves. Configuration1″dfurther includes seals18partially surrounding both first valve36′aand second valve36′b.FIG. 3Ishows a closed position similar to that shown inFIG. 3C.FIG. 3Jshows an open position in which valves36′aand36′bare simultaneously or sequentially rotated 180°, so that buckets39aand39bface channels12aand12b, thereby dispense agent1000into lumen102.

FIG. 4illustrates a medical device1′″ that is similar in many respects devices1,1′,1″ described above. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. Medical device1′″ includes a general dosing mechanism6. Dosing mechanism6is not particularly limited, and may include rotational dosing mechanisms, e.g., wheel16, auger26, valve36, or other dosing mechanisms. Medical device1′″ further includes a turbine110including a rotational axis111and panels112. Turbine110is positioned within lumen102so that it is in line with the fluid stream, which assists in the rotation of turbine110. Rotational axis111may be fixedly coupled to dosing mechanism6so that rotation of axis111rotates dosing mechanism6about axis111and also about a central axis of channel12. Panels112are rectangular in shape and extend radially outward from axis111. However, the shape of panels112, as well as the number of panels112(four shown inFIG. 4), is not particularly limited. Panels112are equally spaced apart around axis111, but may be spaced at unequal intervals. Thus, rotation of turbine110, via the fluid stream pushing against panels112, rotates axis111, which, in turn, rotates dosing mechanism, thereby dispensing agent1000. Thus, in this embodiment, the fluid stream from lumen102may be used to actuate dispensing of agent1000, and there may be no need for a separate actuation for rotating dosing mechanism6. Furthermore, this embodiment ensures a constant fluid stream during the dispensing of agent1000.

FIG. 5illustrates a hydraulic system200. Hydraulic system200is not limited to a particular function for the above-mentioned medical device embodiments. Rather, system200may be implemented as a driving mechanism that may be used for any function of medical device1,1′,1″ requiring a drive mechanism, e.g., rotation of wheel16or auger26. Hydraulic system200includes a piston201, a spring202, a liquid reservoir204housing a first plunger203, and a channel205leading out of reservoir204. Channel205includes a valve206and a restrictor207along its path, and leading into a syringe208.

Piston201is not particularly limited, and may be any suitable piston, for example, a cylindrical rod, configured to linearly drive towards and retract from first plunger203. Spring202, likewise, is not particularly limited, and may be any suitable spring. Spring202is coupled to one end of piston201and an adjacent surface of plunger203, so that spring202is positioned between piston201and plunger203. Liquid reservoir204, which is pre-filled with a liquid, e.g., water, is of a width equal to that of plunger203, so that plunger203may move linearly within reservoir204from one end to the other. Plunger203may include a seal about its circumference to seal against a wall of reservoir204, so that liquid does not leak around plunger203. The drive of piston201may compress spring202, thereby causing plunger203to advance linearly, via the spring force of compressed spring202, and pushing the liquid towards channel205. Channel205is of a smaller width/diameter than reservoir204, and includes a valve206, that is positioned between a first portion205aand a second portion205bof channel205. Valve206may be any suitable valve that may be actuated to open/close to permit/restrict the passage of liquid through channel205. Restrictor207, positioned in the second portion205bof channel205, includes an orifice which controls the rate of liquid flowing through restrictor207. The means by which restrictor207controls flow rate of the liquid into syringe208is not particularly limited, and may be by any suitable means. Syringe208is connected to the end of channel205on one side, thereby establishing fluid communication between syringe208and reservoir204(when valve206is opened). Syringe208houses a second plunger209configured to move linearly from one end to the other end of syringe208, e.g., the first channel side to the second channel side. Plunger209may have the same width/diameter as syringe208so that plunger209may move linearly within syringe208. Plunger209may also include a seal about its circumference to seal against an inner wall of syringe208, so that liquid does not leak around plunger209. The flow of liquid from reservoir204to syringe208pushes on plunger209so that plunger209may advance linearly. Plunger209may be coupled to the above-described medical devices by any suitable means, and may serve as a driving mechanism for actuating various functions of said medical devices. For example, the linear drive of plunger209may cause rotation of a gear that results in rotation of a metering/dosing mechanism, e.g., wheel16, auger26, or may mechanically push agent1000towards the metering/dosing mechanisms of medical devices.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed device without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.