Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to surgical access assemblies and surgical valves or seals of the type adapted to allow the introduction of a surgical instrument or object therethrough. In particular, the surgical access assemblies and seals disclosed herein are adapted to facilitate the insertion, withdrawal, and manipulation of a surgical instrument through the incorporation of a lubricous substance or fluid.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/980,521 filed on Oct. 17, 2007, entitled “ACCESS ASSEMBLY WITH SEAL LUBRICANT MECHANISM”, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    1. Technical Field 
         [0003]    The present disclosure relates to surgical devices and, more particularly, to a surgical access assembly for use during minimally invasive surgical procedures. 
         [0004]    2. Background of the Related Art 
         [0005]    Minimally invasive surgical procedures, which include both endoscopic and laparoscopic procedures, permit surgery to be performed on organs, vessels, or the like that are far removed from an opening in the skin. Such procedures are typically performed through a surgical access assembly employing one or more narrow tubes or cannulas inserted percutaneously into the patient. 
         [0006]    To better access the underlying organs, etc., typically, the surgical area is insufflated using one or more biocompatible gases. The insufflation gases lift tissue away from the target site such that that a larger, more accessible workspace is created. Accordingly, it is of substantial importance to maintain the integrity of the insufflated environment so as to provide continued access to the surgical site through the duration of the procedure. To this end, surgical access assemblies generally include a seal assembly, which includes a seal or valve member. 
         [0007]    Surgical seals generally define an aperture that is dimensioned to receive any surgical instrumentation that might be used during the course of the procedure, and are generally formed of a material that is capable of resilient deformation. The seal&#39;s aperture typically defines a diameter that is substantially smaller than that of any surgical instrument to be inserted therethrough such that the aperture is forcibly enlarged by the instrument, and the resilient nature of the material comprising the seal allows it to stretch in order to accommodate the surgical instrument. This stretching creates a force that is applied to the instrument and results in the formation of a substantially fluid tight seal therewith, substantially preventing the escape of insufflation gases through the cannula of the access assembly. Consequently, however, it is often necessary for a clinician to apply significant pressure in an effort to move the surgical instrument longitudinally through the seal. 
         [0008]    While it is known in the art that lubricating either the surgical instrument or the seal member may reduce the force necessary to move the surgical instrument longitudinally distally during the course of a procedure, there exists a continuing need for surgical assemblies and seal members that incorporate lubricous elements. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0009]    In one aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical access apparatus is disclosed that includes a housing with a seal member disposed therein. The seal member includes at least one reservoir adapted to accommodate a fluid and having at least one egress such that the fluid may be discharged from the at least one reservoir. The at least one egress is configured and dimensioned to communicate the at least one fluid externally of the seal member. 
         [0010]    In one embodiment, the at least one reservoir includes a plurality of reservoirs that may be substantially arcuate in configuration and concentrically disposed within the seal member. 
         [0011]    The seal member may be at least partially formed from a deformable material such that the seal member may transition from a first condition, in which the fluid is retained within the at least one reservoir, to a second condition, in which the fluid is discharged from the at least one reservoir. In the first condition, the at least one reservoir defines a fluid retaining capacity that is decreased as the seal member transitions from the first condition to the second condition, thereby causing the expulsion of fluid from the at least one reservoir. 
         [0012]    In one embodiment, the seal member includes a veneer member secured to the periphery thereof for facilitating the retention of the fluid within the at least one reservoir. The veneer member is adapted to be penetrated by a surgical instrument upon its insertion into the housing. 
         [0013]    In another aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical access apparatus is disclosed which comprises a housing having at least one vessel associated therewith, a cannula sleeve extending from the housing, and a seal member disposed within the housing and defining an aperture therethrough. The at least one vessel is defined by a plurality of walls that describe an interior space that is configured and dimensioned to retain a fluid. The at least one vessel includes at least one egress that is configured and dimensioned for fluid communication such that the fluid may be dispensed from the at least one vessel. 
         [0014]    The at least one vessel may be mounted to an inner wall of the housing and may be engagable with a surgical instrument upon its insertion into the surgical access apparatus such that the fluid retained within the at least one vessel may be discharged therefrom through the at least one egress. 
         [0015]    In one embodiment, the housing defines at least one channel therein that is configured and dimensioned to communicate a gas. The channel is disposed distally of the at least one egress such that the fluid may be drawn out of the at least one vessel upon the communication of the gas. 
         [0016]    In another embodiment, the surgical access apparatus includes at least one pump member operatively associated with the at least one vessel. 
         [0017]    In yet another embodiment, the surgical access apparatus further includes a latch member operatively associated with the at least one pump member and disposed on the inner wall of the housing. The latch member is movable from a first position to a second position upon the insertion of a surgical instrument into the housing such that the at least one pump member may be activated. 
         [0018]    The seal member may be movable from a first position to a second position upon the insertion of a surgical instrument into the aperture thereof. In the first position, the seal member substantially abuts the at least one egress, and in the second position, the at least one egress is at least partially exposed. 
         [0019]    The surgical access apparatus may further include a biasing member disposed within the at least one vessel that facilitates dispensation of the fluid retained therein. 
         [0020]    In an alternate embodiment, the at least one vessel also includes at least one ingress disposed distally of the at least one egress, and the cannula sleeve defines a channel therethrough. In this embodiment, the at least one ingress in fluid communication with the interior space defined by the plurality of walls of the at least one vessel through a channel defined in the cannula sleeve. 
         [0021]    In still another embodiment, the surgical access apparatus further includes a one-way valve disposed within the channel adjacent the at least one ingress. The one-way valve is configured and dimensioned such that the fluid retained within the at least one reservoir is substantially prevented from exiting the channel through the at least one ingress. 
         [0022]    In another aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical access apparatus is disclosed that includes a housing having at least one reservoir disposed therein that is adapted to retain a fluid, a seal member disposed within the housing, and a wick member in fluid communication with the at least one reservoir, wherein the wick member is at least partially disposed within the housing and proximally of the seal member. 
         [0023]    In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical access apparatus is disclosed which includes a housing having a seal member and a bladder member disposed therein. The bladder member defines an internal cavity that is adapted to retain a fluid therein that is exuded from the bladder member upon the puncture thereof by a surgical instrument. 
         [0024]    In a final aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical access apparatus is disclosed that includes a housing having a seal member disposed therein and a grommet member associated therewith. The grommet member is adapted for penetration by a needle member that is configured and dimensioned to communicate a fluid therethrough. The grommet member is oriented such that the fluid may be communicated through the needle member and about the seal member. 
         [0025]    These and other features of the valve disclosed herein will become more readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0026]    Various embodiments of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with references to the drawings, wherein: 
           [0027]      FIGS. 1-2  are perspective views of a surgical access apparatus in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; 
           [0028]      FIG. 3  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIGS. 1-2 ; 
           [0029]      FIG. 4A  is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIGS. 1-3  depicting a seal member in a first condition that includes at least one reservoir;; 
           [0030]      FIG. 4B  is top plan view of the seal member of  FIG. 4A ; 
           [0031]      FIG. 4C  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 4A  depicting the seal member in a second condition with a surgical instrument inserted therethrough; 
           [0032]      FIG. 5A  is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIGS. 1-3  depicting a seal member in a first condition that includes at least one reservoir; 
           [0033]      FIG. 5B  is top plan view of the seal member of  FIG. 5A ; 
           [0034]      FIG. 5C  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 5A  depicting the seal member in a second condition with a surgical instrument inserted therethrough; 
           [0035]      FIG. 6A  is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIGS. 1-3  depicting a seal member, which includes at least one reservoir, in a first condition and a veneer member; 
           [0036]      FIG. 6B  is top plan view of the seal member of  FIG. 6A ; 
           [0037]      FIG. 6C  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 6A  depicting the seal member and the veneer member with a surgical instrument inserted therethrough; 
           [0038]      FIG. 7A  is a side cross-sectional view of a surgical access apparatus, including a seal member in a first condition, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, wherein the surgical access apparatus includes a housing having at least one vessel associated therewith; 
           [0039]      FIG. 7B  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 7A  depicting the seal member in a second condition with a surgical instrument inserted therethrough; 
           [0040]      FIG. 8A  is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 7A  depicting a seal member in a first condition, wherein the; 
           [0041]      FIG. 8B  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 8A  depicting the seal member in a second condition with a surgical instrument inserted therethrough; 
           [0042]      FIG. 9A  is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 7A  including a sleeve having a channel defined therein and depicting a seal member in a first condition; 
           [0043]      FIG. 9B  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 8A  depicting the seal member in a second condition with a surgical instrument inserted therethrough; 
           [0044]      FIG. 9C  is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 9A  further including a one-way valve; 
           [0045]      FIG. 10A  is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 7A  including a housing having a channel defined therein and depicting a seal member in a first condition; 
           [0046]      FIG. 10B  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 10A  depicting the seal member in a second condition with a surgical instrument inserted therethrough; 
           [0047]      FIG. 11A  is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 7A  including a pump member, a latch member, and a seal member, wherein the latch member and the seal member are each in a first condition; 
           [0048]      FIG. 11B  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 11A  wherein the latch member and the seal member are each in a second condition; 
           [0049]      FIG. 12A  is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 7A  wherein the at least one vessel is disposed on an inner wall of the housing; 
           [0050]      FIG. 12B  is a top plan view of the at least one vessel depicted of  FIG. 12A ; 
           [0051]      FIG. 12C  is a side cross sectional view of the at least one vessel of  FIGS. 12A-12B ; 
           [0052]      FIG. 12D  is a side cross sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 12A  depicting the at least one vessel in a second condition; 
           [0053]      FIG. 13A  is a side cross-sectional view of another surgical access apparatus, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, including a wick member and a seal member, wherein the seal member is in a first condition; 
           [0054]      FIG. 13B  is a side cross sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 13A  depicting the seal member in a second condition; 
           [0055]      FIG. 14A  is a side cross-sectional view of yet another surgical access apparatus, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, including a seal member and a bladder member, wherein the seal member is in a first condition; 
           [0056]      FIG. 14B  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 14A  depicting the seal member and the bladder member with a surgical instrument inserted therethrough; 
           [0057]      FIG. 15A  is a side cross-sectional view of still another surgical access apparatus, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, including a seal member and a grommet member, wherein the seal member is in a first condition; and 
           [0058]      FIG. 15B  is a side cross-sectional view of the surgical access apparatus of  FIG. 15A  depicting the seal member in a second condition and a needle member inserted thorough the grommet member. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
       [0059]    In the drawings and in the description which follows, in which like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements, the term “proximal” will refer to the end of the apparatus which is closest to the clinician, while the term “distal” will refer to the end which is furthest from the clinician, as is traditional and known in the art. 
         [0060]    Throughout the present disclosure, the term “seal” or “seal member” should be understood as referring to any seal or valve member, formed of any suitable biocompatible material that is at least semi-resilient in nature and capable of deformation, which may be used in connection with any surgical portal or access assembly, apparatus, or device. 
         [0061]    In each of the embodiments described hereinbelow, the term “fluid” should be understood as referring to any biocompatible substance or fluid that is at least semi-lubricous in nature. In addition, it should be understood that the “fluid” may refer to either a single substance or fluid, or to a combination of a plurality of substances or fluids, which may or may not have medicinal or therapeutic characteristics. 
         [0062]    Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals identify identical or substantially similar parts throughout the several views,  FIGS. 1-2  illustrate a surgical access apparatus  100  in general accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Surgical access apparatus  100  includes a housing  110  having a seal member  120  disposed therein that defines an aperture  124 , and a cannula  112  extending distally therefrom having a sleeve  130 . Sleeve  130  defines a lumen or passageway  132  that is configured and dimensioned for the reception of a surgical instrument (not shown). 
         [0063]    Throughout the present disclosure and in the figures, the surgical apparatus will be depicted as including elements that are typically associated with a cannula assembly, e.g. housing  110  and sleeve  130 . It should be understood, however, that the principles of the present disclosure are applicable to any surgical access or portal apparatus or device suitable for the intended purpose of facilitating access to a patient&#39;s internal cavities, organs, tissues, or during the course of a minimally invasive procedure. 
         [0064]    Each apparatus disclosed herein is adapted for use with an obturator assembly (not shown). The obturator assembly may include an obturator, trocar, or similar penetrating device having a tip that may be blunt, or incisive, appreciably transparent or opaque, retractable or fixed, or any other such variation, either currently known or later devised. The obturator assembly is typically utilized to penetrate tissue such that sleeve  130  of apparatus  100  may be percutaneously introduced into a patient. Subsequently, the obturator assembly is removed from the apparatus  100  to permit the introduction of one or more surgical instruments through passage  132  in sleeve  130 . 
         [0065]    Each apparatus disclosed herein may be formed, either in whole or in part, of any suitable medical grade material, such as stainless steel, polymeric materials, or the like that may be partially or completely transparent or opaque. Generally, sleeve  130  will have a diameter within the range of about 4.5 mm to about 15 mm, although a sleeve having a substantially larger, or smaller, diameter is within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0066]    As seen in  FIG. 2 , housing  110  is configured and dimensioned to receive seal member  120 , which may be either fixedly or removably disposed therein, in any suitable manner. Further details regarding housing  110  may be obtained through reference to commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0149305 to Cuevas et al., which was published on Jul. 6, 2006 and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
         [0067]    Referring now to  FIGS. 4A-6C , various embodiments of seal member  120  will be discussed. In particular, with reference to  FIGS. 4A-4C , seal member  120   A  includes an outer wall  122   A  and at least one reservoir  140   A  that defines an interior space  142   A  that is configured and dimensioned to accommodate a fluid or substance “F”. Although depicted as substantially irregular in configuration, reservoir  140 A may exhibit any configuration suitable for the intended purpose of accommodating fluid “F”, including but not being limited to, a circular or elliptical configuration. In one embodiment, seal member  120   A  may include four reservoirs (not shown) that are substantially identical to and disposed equidistant from one another within an outer wall  122   A  of seal member  120   A . Reservoir  140   A  includes at least one egress  144   A  formed in outer wall  122   A  that is configured and dimensioned to permit fluid “F” to be discharged therefrom. Egress  144   A  may be any opening, channel, aperture, breach, or the like facilitating the communication of a fluid. Egress  144   A  is in fluid communication with the interior space  142   A  of reservoir  140   A  through a channel  146  that is configured and dimensioned to communicate a fluid. 
         [0068]    Aperture  124   A  of seal member  120   A  is configured and dimensioned to receive a surgical instrument “I” defining a longitudinal axis “A”. Prior to insertion, seal member  120   A  is in a first, or initial, condition ( FIGS. 4A-4B ), in which aperture  124   A  defines a first, or initial, diameter “D 1A ” that is lesser than the diameter “D I ” of instrument “I” ( FIG. 4C ). Upon the insertion of instrument “I”, seal member  120   A  begins to transition into a second condition ( FIG. 4C ) in which aperture  124   A  defines a second, or enlarged diameter, “D 2A ” that substantially approximates the diameter “D I ” of instrument “I”. In the second condition, seal member  120   A  is deflected in a downward, or distal, direction such that seal member  120   A  defines an angle θ formed with an axis “B” that is transverse to the longitudinal axis “A” of instrument “I”. As aperture  124   A  enlarges, seal member  120   A  experiences a compressive force “F C ” that is directed radially inward. Force “F C ” is transmitted to reservoir  140   A  through the material comprising seal member  120   A  and thereby deforms reservoir  140   A , decreasing the volume of interior space  142   A . This decrease in volume causes fluid “F” to be discharged from reservoir  140   A , through channel  146 , and ultimately through egress  144   A  onto outer wall  122   A  of seal member  120   A . After being discharged or dispensed onto outer wall  122   A , fluid “F” traverses outer wall  122   A  of seal member  120   A  and approaches aperture  124   A , being assisted by the force of gravity acting thereupon in the direction of arrow “G”, given the angle of deflection θ of seal member  120   A  formed with transverse axis “B” in the second condition. When fluid “F” reaches aperture  124   A , it contacts, and thereby lubricates instrument “I”, facilitating the longitudinal manipulation of instrument “I” within seal member  120   A . 
         [0069]    As seen in  FIGS. 5A-5C , in an alternate embodiment, seal member  120   B  includes reservoirs  140   B  are substantially arcuate in configuration. Reservoirs  140   B  may be arranged in one or more concentric rings  150  within outer wall  122   B  of seal member  120   B . While seal member  120   B  is depicted as incorporating a plurality of arcuate reservoirs, a seal member including a single arcuate reservoir is also within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0070]    Upon the introduction of instrument “I” to seal member  120   B , seal member  120   B  transitions from the first condition ( FIGS. 5A-5B ) to the second condition ( FIG. 5C ). During this transition, aperture  124   B  enlarges and deforms, thereby creating the compressive force “F C ” that acts upon reservoirs  140   B  and decreases the volume of interior space  142   B  such that fluid “F” is discharged therefrom through channels  146   B  and egresses  144   B . In addition, during the transition from the first condition to the second condition, seal member  120   B  is deflected distally at angle θ formed with transverse axis “B”. This downward or distal deflection contributes to the communication of fluid “F” toward aperture  124   B  and instrument “I”, as discussed above with respect to the embodiment of  FIGS. 4A-4C . 
         [0071]    Referring now to  FIGS. 6A-6C , in another embodiment, seal member  12   C  includes reservoirs  14   C . Reservoirs  14   C  constitute concave formations in the outer wall  122   C  of seal member  12   C . As may be appreciated through reference to  FIGS. 6A-6C , in this embodiment, there is no need for a channel facilitating the communication of fluid between egress  144   C  and reservoir  140   C , as egress  144   C  is inherently defined by the concave configuration of reservoir  14   C . Seal member  12   C  further includes a veneer member  160  that is secured to the periphery “P” of seal member  12   C . Veneer member  160  may be formed of any material suitable for the intended purpose of maintaining the disposition of fluid “F” within reservoirs  14   C  prior to the introduction of instrument “I”. Upon introduction, instrument “I” punctures or penetrates veneer member  160  such that instrument “I” may pass therethrough and into aperture  124   C  of seal member  12   C . Alternatively, veneer member  160  may be removed from seal member  12   C  prior to the introduction of instrument “I”. 
         [0072]    Upon the introduction of instrument “I”, seal member  120   C  transitions from a first condition ( FIGS. 6A-6B ) to a second condition ( FIG. 6C ). During this transition, seal member  120   c  deforms such that the volume of reservoirs  14   C  are decreased. This decrease in volume of reservoirs  14   C  discharges fluid “F” therefrom, as discussed above with respect to the embodiments of  FIGS. 4A-5C . In addition, during the transition from the first condition to the second condition, seal member  12   C  is deflected distally at angle θ formed with transverse axis “B”. This downward or distal deflection contributes to the communication of fluid “F” across outer wall  122   C  of seal member  12   C  toward aperture  124   C  and instrument “I”, as discussed above with respect to the embodiments of  FIGS. 4A-5C . 
         [0073]    Referring now to  FIGS. 7A-12C , an alternate aspect of the present disclosure will be discussed in which a surgical access apparatus is disclosed that includes a housing  110 , a sleeve  130  ( FIG. 1 ), and seal member  120  defining an aperture  124  therethrough. 
         [0074]    Referring in particular to  FIGS. 7A-7B , in one embodiment, housing  110  includes at least one vessel  210  associated therewith. Vessel  210  is defined by a plurality of walls  212  that describe an interior space  214  that is configured and dimensioned to retain fluid “F”. Vessel  210  includes at least one egress  216  that is disposed proximally of seal member  120 . Egress  216  is configured and dimensioned for fluid communication such that the fluid “F” may be dispensed from the at least one vessel  210 . Vessel  210  further includes a biasing member  218  that is disposed within interior space  214 . As shown, biasing member  218  includes a pusher element  220  that is operatively connected to a spring  222 . Pusher element  220  defines a height “H” that approximates that of interior space  214  such that pusher element  220  may advance fluid “F” through vessel  210  under the influence of a biasing force “F B ” created by spring  222 , as discussed in further detail below. Biasing member  218  may be any member suitable for the intended purpose of creating a biasing force “F B ” sufficient in magnitude to advance fluid “F” through vessel  210 . 
         [0075]    Prior to the introduction of a surgical instrument thereto, seal member  120  is in a first, or initial, condition ( FIG. 7A ). In this first condition, seal member  120  substantially abuts egress  216 , thereby obstructing, and substantially preventing the flow of fluid “F” from vessel  210  therethrough. Additionally, the presence of fluid “F” in vessel  210  in the first condition deforms or compresses spring  222 , and consequently pusher element  220 , such that biasing force “F B ” is created and stored as potential energy in spring  222 . Upon the introduction of surgical instrument “I”, seal member  120  transitions from the first condition to a second condition ( FIG. 7B ). During this transition, aperture  124  of seal member  120  is enlarged such that a substantially fluid tight seal is formed between seal member  120  and instrument “I”. Additionally, during the transition from the first condition to the second condition, seal member  120  is deflected distally at angle θ formed with transverse axis “B”, as discussed above with respect to the embodiments of  FIGS. 4A-6C . In the second condition, seal member  120  is displaced from egress  216  such that the flow of fluid “F” is no longer obstructed and the communication of fluid “F” from vessel  210  through egress  216  is permitted. 
         [0076]    The communication of fluid “F” from vessel  210  through egress  216  is facilitated not only by the gravitational force acting upon fluid “F”, but by the biasing force “F B ” exerted upon fluid “F” by biasing member  218 . In the first condition, biasing force “F B ” endeavors to expel fluid “F” from vessel  210 . However, biasing force “F B ” is insufficient in magnitude to displace seal member  120  distally, and thereby expose egress  216  and permit the communication of fluid “F” therethrough. Accordingly, in the first position, biasing force “F B ” acts only to pressurize fluid “F”. In the second condition, however, as seal member x is displaced distally by instrument “I” and egress  216  is exposed, the flow of fluid “F” therethrough is no longer obstructed, as discussed above, and biasing force “F B ”, or the potential energy stored in spring  222 , is free to advance pusher element  220  such that fluid “F” is forced from vessel  210 . 
         [0077]    As seen in  FIGS. 7A-7B  and discussed above, egress  216  is disposed proximally of seal member  120 . Accordingly, as fluid “F” is discharged from vessel  210  through egress  216 , it is dispensed onto outer wall  122  of seal member  120 . Thereafter, fluid “F” is inwardly communicated across outer wall  122  of seal member  120 , e.g., towards instrument “I” given the distal deflection of seal member  120  at angle θ formed with transverse axis “B” in the second condition. When fluid “F” reaches aperture  124  of seal member  120 , it contacts, and thereby lubricates instrument “I”, facilitating the longitudinal manipulation of instrument “I” within seal member  120 , as discussed above with respect to the embodiments of  FIGS. 4A-6C . 
         [0078]    As seen in  FIGS. 8A-8B , vessel  210   A  includes a channel  224  that extends proximally therefrom and terminates in an opening  226  in housing  110 . Opening  226  and channel  224  are configured and dimensioned to facilitate the flow of ambient air into and through vessel  210   A  and egress  216   A . 
         [0079]    In this embodiment, when seal member  120  is in the first condition ( FIG. 8A ), atmospheric pressure is applied to fluid “F” through opening  226  and channel  224  in housing  110 . This pressure endeavors to force fluid “F” from vessel  210   A  through egress  216   A . However, fluid “F” is substantially preventing from exiting vessel  210   A  through egress  216   A  given the abutment thereof with seal member  120  in the first condition. Accordingly, in the first position, the atmospheric pressure applied to fluid “F” through opening  226  and channel  224  formed in housing  110  serves only to pressurize fluid “F”, as discussed above with respect to the previous embodiment. As seal member  120  transitions from the first condition to the second condition ( FIG. 8B ), the pressurized fluid “F” is discharged from vessel  210   A  through egress  216   A  and onto an outer wall  122  of seal member  120 . Subsequently, fluid “F” is communicated inwardly, across outer wall  122  of seal member  120 , ultimately contacting, and thereby lubricating instrument “I”, as discussed above with respect to the previous embodiments. 
         [0080]    Referring to  FIGS. 9A-9C , in yet another embodiment, vessel  210   B  includes at least one ingress  228 . Ingress  228  is disposed distally of egress  216   B  at a distal end of a channel  230  formed in cannula sleeve  130 . Channel  130  and ingress  228  are each configured and dimensioned to communicate a fluid, e.g. an insufflation gas  140 , such that fluid communication may be established between cannula  112  and the interior space  214   B  of vessel  210   B . 
         [0081]    In this embodiment, prior to the transition of seal member  120  from the first condition ( FIG. 9A ) to the second condition ( FIG. 9B ), pressurized insufflation gas  140  is pumped into cannula  112  through an insufflation port (not shown) formed either in housing  110  or sleeve  130 , as it is known in the art. As cannula  112  fills with insufflation gas  140 , the pressurized gas  140  is forced through ingress  228  into channel  230  and is subsequently communicated proximally, in the direction of arrows “C”, to vessel  210   B  where fluid “F” is retained. The communication of gas  140  into vessel  210   B  forces fluid “F” therefrom through egress  216   B  and onto the outer wall  122  of seal member  120 . 
         [0082]    As seal member  120  transitions from the first condition to the second condition upon the introduction of instrument “I”, seal member  120  is deflected distally at angle θ formed with transverse axis “B”, such that fluid “F” is communicated inwardly, across outer wall  122  of seal member  120 , ultimately contacting, and thereby lubricating instrument “I”, as discussed above with respect to the embodiments of  FIGS. 4A-8B . 
         [0083]    As seen in  FIG. 9C , a one-way valve  250  may be disposed within the channel  230  formed in sleeve  130 . One-way valve  250  may be any valve or member suitable for the intended purpose of permitting the flow of insufflation gas  140  from cannula  112  into channel  230  while substantially prohibiting the distal flow of fluid “F”, if any, from vessel  210   B  into cannula  112  through channel  230  and ingress  228 . As shown, one-way valve  250  is disposed substantially adjacent ingress  228 . However, it is contemplated that one-way valve  250  may be disposed at any location suitable for its intended purpose. 
         [0084]    With respect to  FIGS. 10A-10B , in an alternate embodiment of apparatus  200 , housing  110  includes a conduit  260  defined therein that is in fluid communication with an inlet port  270  formed in housing  110 . Conduit  260  extends through seal member  120  and is disposed distally of egress  216   C  formed in vessel  210   C  and. Conduit  260  and is configured and dimensioned to communicate a fluid, e.g. insufflation gas  140 , therethrough. 
         [0085]    When seal member  120  is in the first condition ( FIG. 10A ), seal member  120  substantially prevents the escapes of fluid “F” from vessel  210   C  by obscuring egress  216   C , as discussed above with respect to the embodiments of  FIGS. 7A-9C . As seal member  120  transitions from the first condition to the second condition ( FIG. 10B ) upon the introduction of surgical instrument “I”, seal member  120  is deflected distally at angle θ formed with transverse axis “B” such that egress  216   C  is no longer obscured. Concurrently, gas  140  is pumped into cannula  112  through port  270  in the direction of arrow “D” and is communicated through conduit  260  such that it flows past egress  216   C . As gas  140  passes egress  216   C , it begins to draw or pull fluid “F” from vessel  210   C  through egress  216   C . Subsequently, fluid “F” exits vessel  210   C  through egress  216   C , under the influence of both gravity and the flow of gas  140  past egress  216   C , and is discharged onto outer wall  122  of seal member  120 . Thereafter, fluid “F” is communicated inwardly, across outer wall  122  of seal member  120 , ultimately contacting, and thereby lubricating instrument “I”, as discussed above with respect to each of the embodiments discussed above. 
         [0086]    Referring now to  FIGS. 11A-11B , in another embodiment, one or more pump members  280  are operatively associated with vessel  210   D  and a latch member  282 . Pump member, or members,  280  may be any mechanism suitable for the intended purpose of facilitating the discharge of fluid “F” from vessel  210   D  through egress  216   D . 
         [0087]    Latch member  282  is disposed proximally of seal member  120  on an inner wall  284  of housing  110  at any location that facilitates the engagement of latch member  282  and surgical instrument “I” upon the insertion thereof into housing  110 , as discussed in further detail below. Latch member  282  is configured and dimensioned for movement between a first position ( FIG. 11A ) and a second position ( FIG. 11B ). In the first position, latch member  282  is configured and dimensioned to engage surgical instrument “I” in any suitable manner. As shown, in one embodiment, in the first position, latch member  282  extends radially inward, i.e. into housing  110 , such that latch member  282  may contact instrument “I” upon the insertion thereof, and in the second position, latch member  282  is displaced radially outward. 
         [0088]    Latch member  282  is operatively associated with a biasing mechanism (not shown), e.g. a spring, that maintains latch member  282  in the first position. Upon the displacement of latch member  282  by instrument “I”, a biasing force is created in the biasing mechanism (not shown) that is directed radially inward, thereby returning the latch member  282  to the first position upon the removal of instrument “I”. 
         [0089]    In the second position, latch member  282  is configured and dimensioned to activate pump  280 . Latch member  282  may activate pump  280  in any suitable manner, including but not limited to, completing an electrical circuit when in the second position such that energy may be delivered to pump  280  from a suitable energy source (not shown), such as a battery or a generator. The activation of pump  280  causes the continuous discharge of fluid “F” from vessel  210   D  through egress  216   D  and onto outer wall  122  of seal member  120 , and perhaps instrument “I”. As instrument “I” is advanced distally, instrument “I” deflects seal member  120  in a distal direction at angle θ formed with transverse axis “B”. Thereafter, fluid “F” is communicated inwardly, across outer wall  122  of seal member  120 , thereby facilitating the lubrication of instrument “I” and seal member  120 , as discussed above with respect to each of the previous embodiments. 
         [0090]    Upon the removal of instrument “I”, the biasing force created by the biasing member (not shown) and exerted upon latch member  282  displaces latch member  282  radially inward, thereby returning latch member  282  to the first position, deactivating pump  280 , and arresting the communication of fluid “F” from reservoir. 
         [0091]    Referring now to  FIGS. 12A-12D , in yet another embodiment, a plurality of vessels  210 E, which includes at least a first vessel  210   E ′ and a second vessel  210   E ″, are secured to inner wall  284  of housing  110  at first ends  290 . In this embodiment, vessels  210   E  are hollow, fingerlike structures that extend radially inward. The egress  216   E  of each vessel  210   E  is disposed at a second end  292  thereof and proximally of seal member  120 . Vessels  210   E  are configured such that an opening or gap  294  is defined between the adjacent second ends  292  of each pair of opposing vessels  210   E . Opening  294  defines a diameter “D G ” that is appreciably lesser than the diameter “D I ” of surgical instrument “I” such that vessels  210   E  may engage instrument “I” upon the introduction thereof. The present disclosure contemplates that the opening  294  may be sufficiently dimensioned such that vessels  210   E  engage instrument “I” in sealing relation. Vessels  210   E  may be formed of any material that is at least partially resilient in nature such the vessels  210   E  may transition from a first condition ( FIGS. 12A-12C ) to a second condition ( FIG. 12D ). 
         [0092]    In the first condition, vessels  210   E  are configured such that they define a first angle θ 1  formed with axis “B”. Angle θ 1  may be any angle that substantially prevents the discharge of fluid “F” from vessels  210   E  under the influence of the force of gravity and may include an angle of 0°, as seen in  FIG. 12A , or greater. Dependent upon the viscosity of fluid “F”, in the first condition, vessels  210   E  may be oriented such that they exhibit a distal curvature, i.e. angle θ 1  is greater than 0°, as seen in  FIG. 12C . In the second condition, vessels  210   E  are configured such that they define a second angle θ 2  formed with axis “B”. Angle θ 2  may be any angle that facilitates the discharge of fluid “F” from vessels  210   E  under the influence of the force of gravity, as seen in  FIG. 12D . As fluid “F” is discharged from vessels  210   E  through egresses  216   E , it is discharged onto instrument “I” and onto outer wall  122  of seal member  120  due to the proximal location of vessels  210   E  and egresses  216   E  in relation to seal member  120 . 
         [0093]    As instrument “I” is advanced distally, instrument “I” engages and deflects seal member  120  in a distal direction. Thereafter, fluid “F” is communicated inwardly, across outer wall  122  of seal member  120 , thereby facilitating the lubrication of instrument “I” and seal member  120 , as discussed above with respect to each of the aforedescribed embodiments. 
         [0094]    Referring now to  FIGS. 13A-13B , another aspect of the present disclosure will be discussed in which the surgical access apparatus includes housing  110 , a wick member  310 , and seal member  120 . 
         [0095]    In this aspect of the present disclosure, housing  110  includes at least one reservoir  320  disposed therein that is in fluid communication with wick member  310 . Reservoir  320  may be formed of individual structural elements, or may be simply defined by a recess or cavity formed within housing  110 . 
         [0096]    Wick member  310  is any member that may be used to communicate or draw fluid “F” from reservoir  320  through capillary action, and accordingly, wick member  310  may be composed of any material suitable for that intended purpose including, but not limited to, natural fibers, such as cotton, or synthetic materials. Additionally, the material comprising wick member  310  may have characteristics that make wick member  310  at least semi-resilient, such that wick member  310  may deform upon the introduction of instrument “I”, as discussed in further detail below. 
         [0097]    Wick member  310  is disposed within housing  110  such that wick member  310  is located proximally of seal member  120 , and wick member  310  is at least partially disposed within the at least one reservoir  320  such that at least a portion of wick member  310  is disposed within fluid “F”. It is contemplated that wick member  310  may be integrally formed with housing  110 , or that wick member  310  may be releasably formed therewith, thereby facilitating the replacement of wick member  310  when necessary. 
         [0098]    Prior to the introduction of instrument “I”, wick member  310  is at least partially sodden with fluid “F”, as seen in  FIG. 13A . Upon the introduction of surgical instrument “I” to wick member  310 , as seen in  FIG. 13B , fluid “F” is applied thereto. The proximal location of wick member  310  in relation to seal member  120  ensures that fluid “F” is applied to instrument “I” prior to the insertion of instrument “I” into seal member  120 , thereby facilitating the lubrication of instrument “I” and the longitudinal manipulation thereof within seal member  120 , as discussed above with respect to each of the aforementioned embodiments. 
         [0099]    As instrument “I” is advanced distally, instrument “I” penetrates wick member  310 , thereby creating an opening, or a hole,  312  therein that substantially approximates the diameter “D I ” of instrument “I”. The present disclosure contemplates that the opening  312  may be sufficiently dimensioned such that a seal is at least partially formed with instrument “I”. The continued engagement of instrument “I” with wick member  310  resiliently enlarges the opening  312  in wick member  310  and ensures the substantially continuous application of fluid “F” to instrument “I”. In an alternate embodiment of wick member  310 , wick member  310  may define a pre-formed aperture (not shown) therein that is configured and dimensioned to receive instrument “I”, thereby obviating the need for puncture. 
         [0100]    With respect to  FIGS. 14A-14B , in yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the surgical access apparatus includes the housing  110 , a bladder member  410 , and seal member  120  disposed therein. 
         [0101]    Bladder member  410  is disposed proximally of seal member  120 , and in one embodiment, bladder member  410  may sit directly atop seal member  120 . Bladder member  410  includes an outer wall  412  that defines an internal cavity  414  adapted to retain fluid “F”. Bladder member  410  may be formed of any suitable material that is adapted for puncture by a surgical instrument “I”, and may be either integrally formed with or releasably disposed within housing  110 , thereby facilitating the replacement thereof. 
         [0102]    Upon the introduction of surgical instrument “I” to bladder member  410 , instrument “I” punctures outer wall  412 , thereby releasing the fluid “F” retained therein. As instrument “I” is advanced distally through bladder member  410 , fluid “F” is applied to instrument “I”. The proximal location of bladder member  410  in relation to seal member  120  ensures that fluid “F” is applied to instrument “I” prior to the insertion of instrument “I” into seal member  120 , thereby facilitating the lubrication of instrument “I” and the longitudinal manipulation thereof within seal member  120 , as discussed above with respect to each of the previous embodiments. 
         [0103]    As seen in  FIGS. 15A-15B , in a final aspect of the present disclosure, housing  110  includes a grommet member  510  that is disposed in an aperture  502  formed therein. 
         [0104]    Grommet member  510  is disposed proximally of seal member  120  within housing  110  and is adapted for the insertion and removal of a needle member  520 . Grommet member  510  may be formed of any material suitable for this purpose, including but not limited to, polymeric materials. In one embodiment, grommet member  510  may define a pre-formed opening or passage (not shown) therethrough that is configured and dimensioned to receive needle member  520 . As depicted, needle member  520  includes a needle element  522  defining a channel  524  therethrough, a reservoir  526  having fluid “F” disposed therein, and a plunger element  528  disposed within reservoir  526  and coupled to a pusher  530 . It is contemplated that needle member  520  may be any member suitable for the intended purpose of retain and dispensing fluid “F”. 
         [0105]    Upon the introduction of a surgical instrument “I” into housing  110 , needle member  520  is inserted through grommet member  510 . Subsequently, pusher  530  is advanced such that plunger element  528  may dispense fluid “F” through channel  524  in needle element  522 . Fluid “F” may be dispensed upon either or both of outer wall  122  or aperture  124  of seal member  120 . Alternatively, fluid “F” may be applied directly to instrument “I”. The proximal location of grommet member  510  in relation to seal member  120  ensures that fluid “F” is applied to instrument “I”, either directly or through contact with seal member  120 , prior to the insertion of instrument “I”, thereby facilitating the lubrication of instrument “I” and the longitudinal manipulation thereof within seal member  120 , as discussed above with respect to each of the aforementioned embodiments. 
         [0106]    In each of the embodiments disclosed herein, it is contemplated that the surgical instrument “I” may itself be lubricated prior to its introduction to any of the aforedescribed housings, either manually by a clinician, or through the employ of a self-lubricating system associated with the instrument. 
         [0107]    Although the illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, the above description, disclosure, and figures should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. It is to be understood, therefore, that the disclosure is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various other changes and modifications may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the disclosure.