Patent Description:
Certain medical devices may be utilized in numerous procedures for treating multiple patients. Prior to reuse, such medical devices may undergo extensive sterilization and/or reprocessing procedures to safely prepare the device for use in a subsequent procedure. However, despite extensive cleaning measures, cross-contamination between patients may still occur from the reuse of medical devices across multiple procedures, thereby resulting in possible infection and other post-procedure complications for the patient. Disposable medical devices may be employed in lieu of reusable medical devices, however, providing for a single use of components may result in increased costs. Medical devices that may be reusable or disposable to provide a balance between minimizing contamination and saving costs may be limited.

<CIT> discloses a modular endoscope with a proximal first body detachably connected to a distal second body and intermediate connectors for actuators of the control wires.

Aspects of the disclosure relate to, among other things, systems, devices, and methods for a modular medical device including disposable and reusable components, among other aspects. Each of the aspects disclosed herein may include one or more of the features described in connection with any of the other disclosed aspects.

According to the present invention as defined in claim <NUM>, a medical device includes a first body including: a first actuation member including a first connector; and a second actuation member; a second body for attachment to, and detachment from, the first body, the second body including: an actuation wire; a second connector at a proximal end of the actuation wire; and a valve having one or more channels for receiving a material; wherein attachment of the first body with the second body results in the first connector engaging the second connector, such that movement of the first actuation member causes a corresponding movement of the actuation wire; and wherein moving the second actuation member into the second body to interact with the valve is configured to selectively direct the material through the one or more channels.

Any of the medical devices described herein may include any of the following features. The second actuation member is configured to close an opening of at least one of the one or more of channels by at least partially deforming the valve at the opening. The second body includes a movable valve body disposed within the valve, the movable valve body being biased to a first position by a biasing mechanism positioned against the movable valve body. The second actuation member is configured to compress the biasing mechanism and move the movable valve to a second position. The first body includes a channel and the second body includes a fluidics tube configured to receive the material from a source, wherein the channel is configured to receive the fluidics tube through the first body. The first body includes an actuator coupled to the first actuation member, and the second body includes a shaft coupled to a distal end of the actuation wire. The actuator is configured to articulate the shaft in response to actuator moving the first actuation member, and the first actuation member moving the actuation wire, when the first connector is engaged with the second connector. The first connector includes a grasper, and the second connector includes a pair of pins defining a gap sized to receive the grasper between the pair of pins. The grasper is configured to engage the pair of pins by extending through the gap to couple the first actuation member to the actuation wire. The grasper is configured to extend through the gap in response to the first body rotating in a first direction relative to the second body when the first body is at least partially received within the second body. The grasper is configured to disengage the pair of pins from the grasper in response to the first body rotating in a second direction relative to the second body that is opposite of the first direction. The actuation wire is configured to move relative to the second body in response to the first actuation member moving relative to the first body. The first body includes an actuator coupled to a gear, and the first actuation member includes a gear rack configured to mesh with the gear. The actuator is configured to translate the first actuation member and the first connector by rotating the gear. Further including a locking mechanism having a pin on the first body, and an aperture on the second body that is configured to receive the pin when the first body is received within, and rotated relative to, the second body, thereby fixing an axial position of the first body relative to the second body.

According to an alternative example, a medical device includes a proximal handle including: a handle housing including a channel; an actuation rod disposed within and movable relative to the handle housing; an actuator movably coupled to the actuation rod; and a shaft assembly including: a shaft housing including a fluidics tube extending proximally from the shaft housing, the fluidics tube configured to extend through the channel of the handle housing; a valve manifold disposed within the shaft housing; and at least one fluidics channel defined by the valve manifold and in fluid communication with the fluidics tube; wherein the actuator is configured to control the fluid communication between the at least one fluidics channel and the fluidics tube by abutting the actuation rod against the valve manifold to at least partially deform the valve manifold.

Any of the medical devices described herein may include any of the following features. The valve manifold includes a movable valve body and a biasing mechanism disposed within the valve manifold, wherein the movable valve body is biased to a default position when the biasing mechanism is in an expanded configuration; and wherein the at least one fluidics channel is in fluid communication with the fluidics tube when the movable valve body is in the default position. The actuator is configured to move the movable valve body to an actuated position by urging the biasing mechanism to a compressed configuration; wherein the at least one fluidics channel is not in fluid communication with the fluidics tube when the movable valve body is in the actuated position. The proximal handle includes a first connector and a second actuation rod coupled to the first connector, the first connector is movable relative to the handle housing in response to movement of the second actuation rod, and the shaft assembly includes a second connector and an actuation wire coupled to the second connector, the second connector is movable relative to the shaft housing in response to movement of the actuation wire; and wherein the second actuation rod is configured to move the actuation wire when the first connector is mated with the second connector.

According to a further example, a medical device includes a first body including: an actuator; a movable rod coupled to the actuator and configured to move in response to actuation of the actuator; and a second body selectively attachable to the first body, the second body including: a valve having a flexible body; and a plurality of channels configured to deliver a material through the second body; wherein the actuator is configured to selectively divert the material through the plurality of channels in response to moving the movable rod against the valve to at least partially deform the flexible body.

This disclosure relates, in certain aspects, to modular medical devices with reusable and disposable components. In some procedures, reuse of a medical device (e.g., endoscope) that was previously utilized in a prior procedure for a same or different patient may be common after the device has undergone sterilization and/or reprocessing measures. Such measures may be generally costly and imperfect as subsequent patients may be at an increased risk to sustain ailments (e.g., infection) resulting from cross-contamination of the device from a prior medical procedure. Employing single-use medical devices may minimize instances of utilizing contaminated devices in subsequent procedures, however, disposal of single-use devices may not provide an efficient balance of saving costs and minimizing contamination.

Examples of the disclosure include systems, devices, and methods for a modular medical device including a reusable body (e.g., handle) and a disposable body (e.g., tube) for treating a target treatment site within a subject (e.g., patient). The reusable body may be positioned external to the target treatment site during a procedure, such that contamination of the reusable body may be minimized, thereby allowing for the reusable body to be reutilized in subsequent procedures with a reduced risk of cross-contamination between patients. At least part of the disposable body may be received within the target treatment site during a procedure and disassembled from the reusable body upon completion of the procedure, thereby allowing for the disposal of the disposable body to minimize contamination of subsequent patients.

In examples, accessing a target treatment site may include endoluminal placement of the medical device into the patient, such as through an anatomical passageway via a natural orifice. The orifice can be, for example, the nose, mouth, or anus, and the placement can be in any portion of the GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, large intestine, or small intestine. Placement also can be in other organs or other bodily spaces reachable via the GI tract, other body lumens, or openings in the body. This disclosure is not limited to any particular medical procedure or treatment site within a body.

Examples of the disclosure may relate to devices and methods for performing various medical procedures and/or treating portions of the large intestine (colon), small intestine, cecum, esophagus, any other portion of the gastrointestinal tract, and/or any other suitable patient anatomy (collectively referred to herein as a "target treatment site"). As mentioned above, this disclosure is not limited to any specific medical device or method, and aspects of the disclosure may be used in connection with any suitable medical tool and/or medical method, at any suitable site within the body.

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 patient. By contrast, the term "proximal" refers to a portion closest to the user when placing the device into the subject. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example," rather than "ideal. " As used herein, the terms "about," "substantially," and "approximately," indicate a range of values within +/- <NUM>% of a stated value.

<FIG> shows an exemplary medical device <NUM> in accordance with one or more examples of this disclosure. Medical device <NUM> may include a first (reusable) body <NUM>, an umbilicus assembly <NUM>, and a second (disposable) body <NUM>. Medical device <NUM> may have a modular configuration such that first body <NUM> and second body <NUM> may be selectively coupled and decoupled from one another, and first body <NUM> and umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be selectively coupled and decoupled from one another.

First body <NUM> and/or umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be configured such that first body <NUM> and/or umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be reusable across multiple procedures. Second body <NUM> may be configured such that second body <NUM> may be disposable after a single use. Accordingly, at least a portion of medical device <NUM> (e.g., second body <NUM>) may be disassembled and discarded after use in a procedure. In some embodiments, first body <NUM> may be coupled to various second (disposable) bodies, each of which may be configured and operable for use in a particular procedure and/or anatomy of a subject.

Referring now to <FIG>, first body <NUM> may define a reusable proximal handle including a housing <NUM> having a longitudinal length defined between a proximal end <NUM> and a distal end <NUM>. First body <NUM> may include one or more control knobs movably coupled to housing <NUM> at proximal end <NUM>. In the example, first body <NUM> may include a first control knob 115A, a second control knob 115B, and a third control knob 115C. First control knob 115A and second control knob 115B may be coupled to and configured to control a movable actuation rod disposed within housing <NUM> (see <FIG>). As described further herein, the movable actuation rods disposed within housing <NUM> may be coupled to one or more components of second body <NUM>, such as a shaft <NUM>, such that control knobs <NUM> may be configured to selectively move shaft <NUM> of second body <NUM> (e.g., articulate a distal portion of shaft <NUM>). Third control knob 115C may be configured to selectively lock first control knob 115A and second control knob 115B to a fixed position.

First body <NUM> may further a plurality of actuators (e.g., depressible buttons, rotatable knobs, etc.) at proximal end <NUM>, such as, for example, a first actuator <NUM>, a second actuator <NUM>, and a third actuator <NUM>. Each of the plurality of actuators may be coupled to and configured to control a corresponding movable rod disposed within housing <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>). The movable rods disposed within housing <NUM> may be coupled to one or more components of second body <NUM>, such as an elevator or a valve, such that the plurality of actuators may be configured to selectively actuate one or more of the elevator or the valve of second body <NUM>. In the example, first actuator <NUM> may be coupled to an elevator of second body <NUM> positioned at a distal tip <NUM> of shaft <NUM> (see <FIG>). Pivoting of actuator <NUM> may lift the elevator of second body <NUM>. Second actuator <NUM> and third actuator <NUM> may selectively actuate a valve manifold <NUM> of second body <NUM> (see <FIG>) to establish fluid communication between first body <NUM>, umbilicus assembly <NUM>, second body <NUM>, and/or an external device <NUM> fluidly coupled to medical device <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Still referring to <FIG>, first body <NUM> may include an internal channel <NUM> disposed within housing <NUM> and extending between proximal end <NUM> and distal end <NUM>. Internal channel <NUM> may be sized and shaped to receive one or more components of second body <NUM>, such as a fluidics tube assembly <NUM> (see <FIG>). Distal end <NUM> may be configured to interface with second body <NUM> to couple first body <NUM> to second body <NUM>. As shown and described in further detail herein, distal end <NUM> may be sized and shaped to be at least partially received within second body <NUM> for coupling first body <NUM> to second body <NUM>, thereby assembling medical device <NUM>.

Further, first body <NUM> may include a first connector assembly <NUM> disposed within housing <NUM> and extending distally from distal end <NUM>. As described in detail below, first connector assembly <NUM> may be configured to mate with a corresponding connector assembly of second body <NUM> (e.g., a second connector assembly <NUM>) to operably couple one or more components of first body <NUM> (e.g., control knobs <NUM>, first actuator <NUM>) with one or more components of second body <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Medical device <NUM> may further include a locking mechanism for selectively securing first body <NUM> to second body <NUM> (see <FIG>). For example, the locking mechanism may include a depressible pin <NUM> disposed along distal end <NUM> of first body <NUM>. As described in further detail herein, pin <NUM> may be biased radially outward from housing <NUM> by a biasing mechanism (e.g., spring) positioned against an interior surface of pin <NUM>, such that pin <NUM> may be urged to an extended state absent application of a radially-inward force, such as from second body <NUM> when distal end <NUM> is received within second body <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, umbilicus assembly <NUM> may include an umbilicus tube <NUM>, an umbilicus connector <NUM>, and a plurality of connections on umbilicus connector <NUM>. Umbilicus tube <NUM> may include a plurality of channels (not shown) that are configured to receive one or more electronic cables (not shown) from umbilicus connector <NUM>. The electronic cables may be configured to electrically couple to corresponding electronic cables of first body <NUM>. In some embodiments, first body <NUM> may include first electronic cables (not shown) disposed within housing <NUM>, and having an electrical connector terminating at, and accessible from, a port at proximal end <NUM> at which umbilicus tube <NUM> is received. The first electronic cables may be coupled to second electronic cables disposed within umbilicus assembly <NUM> by connecting the electrical connectors of the first electronic cables to corresponding electrical connectors of the second electronic cables.

For example, the electrical connectors of the first and second electronic cables may be manually connected to one another by a user of medical device <NUM>. In other examples, the corresponding electrical connectors may automatically mate with one another when first body <NUM> is coupled to umbilicus assembly <NUM>. Electronic devices and/or instruments (e.g., imaging devices, illumination devices, sensors, etc.) may be communicatively coupled to the electronic cables of umbilicus assembly <NUM> via the plurality of connectors on umbilicus connector <NUM>. Umbilicus connector <NUM> may include at least a first connector <NUM> (e.g., a first device connection) for coupling an imaging device to medical device <NUM>, and a second connector <NUM> (e.g., a second device connection) for coupling an illumination device to medical device <NUM>.

In some embodiments, umbilicus assembly <NUM> and first body <NUM> may be integral components with one another, such that first body <NUM> and umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be fixedly attached to one another. In this instance, the electronic cables and/or wires from umbilicus connector <NUM> may extend through umbilicus tube <NUM> and housing <NUM>. Suitable electronic connections and other circuitry may be disposed within housing <NUM> for an image capture functionality, such as, for example, by actuating a button <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, second body <NUM> may define a disposable shaft assembly include a housing <NUM> having a longitudinal length defined between a proximal end <NUM> and a distal end <NUM>. Second body <NUM> may include one or more ports <NUM> for facilitating access into housing <NUM>, such as for receipt of one or more devices or instruments. Stated differently, the one or more ports <NUM> may be sized, shaped, and configured to receive one or more devices (not shown) into second body <NUM>, such as, for example, a sample collection device, a biopsy forceps, a grasper, or any other therapeutic or diagnostic tool. In the example, biological matter (e.g., biohazardous fluids) extracted from a target treatment site by medical device <NUM> may be collected at a sample collection device coupled to second body <NUM> at port <NUM>. Accordingly, first body <NUM> and umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be may be isolated from receiving such biological matter, thereby minimizing a potential contamination of said reusable components of medical device <NUM>.

With one or more ports <NUM> located on second body <NUM> (as opposed to first body <NUM>), it should be appreciated that fewer devices may be traversed through housing <NUM>, thereby minimizing a wear and tear of first body <NUM> (i.e., the reusable handle). In the example, at least one port <NUM> may be positioned along housing <NUM> adjacent to distal end <NUM>. Second body <NUM> may further include a flexible shaft <NUM> extending distally from distal end <NUM>, and flexible shaft <NUM> may include distal tip <NUM> from which the one or more devices received in second body <NUM> may exit shaft <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, second body <NUM> may include a (disposable) fluidics tube assembly <NUM> coupled to housing <NUM> at proximal end <NUM>. Fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may include a flexible shaft extending proximally from proximal end <NUM>. Fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may include one or more fluidics channels (not shown) extending between a first end of fluidics tube assembly <NUM> (coupled to housing <NUM>) and a second end <NUM> of fluidics tube assembly <NUM> that is opposite of the first end. For example, fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may include a suction channel, a water channel, a pressurized air channel, and more. The one or more fluidics channels may be configured to receive and/or transmit various fluids during use of medical device <NUM>, including, for example, water, air, saline, and more.

In some embodiments, second end <NUM> may be coupled to one or more external devices <NUM>, such as, for example, a negative pressure medium source, a water supply source, a pressurized air source, etc. (see <FIG>). External device <NUM> may include a plurality of nozzles (e.g., a suction valve nozzle for coupling the negative pressure medium source, a water valve nozzle for coupling the water supply, an air nozzle for coupling the pressurized air source, etc.). In this instance, fluids transmitted from and/or received by external device <NUM> may be isolated from first body <NUM> and umbilicus assembly <NUM> by delivering said fluids from and/or to external device <NUM> via fluidics tube assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may be sized, shaped, and configured to extend through housing <NUM> when first body <NUM> is coupled to second body <NUM>, and particularly through internal channel <NUM>. In the example, internal channel <NUM> may receive fluidics tube assembly <NUM> and second end <NUM> may extend outward from housing <NUM> at a location adjacent to proximal end <NUM> (e.g., via a port) to facilitate coupling of fluidics tube assembly <NUM> to external device <NUM>. The plurality of fluidic channels of fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may be in fluid communication with one or more fluidic channels disposed within housing <NUM> and shaft <NUM>, such as one or more corresponding suction channels, pressurized air channels, water channels, etc. As described in detail below, second actuator <NUM> and third actuator <NUM> may be configured to selectively connect and/or disconnect the one or more fluidic channels of fluidics tube assembly <NUM> with corresponding fluidics channels in shaft <NUM>.

Accordingly, it should be appreciated that first body <NUM> and/or umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be isolated from receiving such fluids, thereby minimizing a potential contamination of said reusable components of medical device <NUM>. Stated differently, only second body <NUM> (i.e. a disposable component) may be exposed to fluids during use of medical device <NUM>, which may be disassembled from first body <NUM> and discarded after use in a procedure. By limiting first body <NUM> and umbilicus assembly <NUM> from exposure to fluids and/or biological matter, a sterilization and reprocessing of first body <NUM> and umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be unnecessary and/or minimized.

As briefly described above, medical device <NUM> may include a locking mechanism for attaching first body <NUM> to second body <NUM>, with first body <NUM> including depressible pin <NUM>. Second body <NUM> may include a groove (not shown) disposed along an interior surface of proximal end <NUM>, and particularly along a proximal edge of proximal end <NUM>, that aligns with a distal edge of distal end <NUM> when first body <NUM> is received within second body <NUM>. The groove may be sized and shaped to receive depressible pin <NUM> when distal end <NUM> is received within proximal end <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, depressible pin <NUM> may be disposed within second body <NUM>, received within the groove at proximal end <NUM>, and compressed radially-inward by the interior surface of proximal end <NUM> (against a radially-outward biasing force of a spring). Medical device <NUM> may be configured such that rotation of first body <NUM> relative to second body <NUM>, or vice versa, may lock first body <NUM> to second body <NUM> when depressible pin <NUM> becomes aligned with an aperture <NUM> formed within the groove along the interior surface of proximal end <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, depressible pin <NUM> may extend radially-outward from first body <NUM> and through second body <NUM> when aligned with aperture <NUM>. In this instance, the radially-outward biasing force of the spring urges depressible pin <NUM> through aperture <NUM>. With depressible pin <NUM> received through aperture <NUM>, first body <NUM> may be axially and rotationally fixed relative to second body <NUM>. As described in further detail herein, rotation of first body <NUM> relative to second body <NUM>, or vice versa, may couple one or more other components of first body <NUM> with components of second body <NUM>, such as a first connector assembly <NUM> and second connector assembly <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, medical device <NUM> may include one or more markings along first body <NUM> and second body <NUM> to facilitate a visual identification of when the locking mechanism of medical device <NUM> is in an unlocked state and a locked state, respectively. As seen in <FIG>, when first body <NUM> is decoupled from second body <NUM>, depressible pin <NUM> may be in an extended state protruding radially-outward from distal end <NUM>. A user of medical device <NUM> may align the markings on first body <NUM> and second body <NUM> to insert first body <NUM> into second body <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, in response to urging first body <NUM> into second body <NUM>, depressible pin <NUM> may be compressed radially-inward and received within the groove positioned along the proximal edge of proximal end <NUM>. In some embodiments, depressible pin <NUM> may be compressed as a result of second body <NUM> urging depressible pin <NUM> inward as distal end <NUM> is received within proximal end <NUM>. In other embodiments, a user of medical device <NUM> may manually depress depressible pin <NUM> (e.g., using a hand of the user) to facilitate receipt of first body <NUM> into second body <NUM>. With depressible pin <NUM> received within the groove of second body <NUM>, medical device <NUM> remains in an unlocked state such that retraction of first body <NUM> may decouple second body <NUM> from first body <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, in response to rotating first body <NUM> relative to second body <NUM> (or vice versa), depressible pin <NUM> may translate through the groove until aligning with the aperture on the proximal edge of proximal end <NUM>. In this instance, depressible pin <NUM> may be received within the aperture and extend radially-outward through second body <NUM> at proximal end <NUM>. In this instance, medical device <NUM> may be transitioned to a locked state such that first body <NUM> may be fixedly attached to second body <NUM>. Medical device <NUM> may be returned to the unlocked state in response to manually depressing depressible pin <NUM> radially-inward into second body <NUM> and rotating first body <NUM> and/or second body <NUM> relative to one another to misalign depressible pin <NUM> with the aperture.

Referring now to <FIG>, medical device <NUM> may further include one or more connector assemblies for operably coupling one or more components of first body <NUM> (e.g., control knobs <NUM>, first actuator <NUM>) with one or more components of second body <NUM> (e.g., shaft <NUM>, distal tip <NUM>, etc.). In the example, first body <NUM> may include first connector assembly <NUM>, and second body <NUM> may include a second connector assembly <NUM>. First connector assembly <NUM> may include a plurality of movable rods <NUM> (actuation members) disposed within housing <NUM>, and movable relative to first body <NUM>.

The plurality of movable rods <NUM> each has a longitudinal length defined between a proximal end <NUM> and a distal end <NUM>. Proximal ends <NUM> of the plurality of movable rods <NUM> may have a gear rack <NUM> along an interior side of each movable rod <NUM>. The gear rack <NUM> of each movable rod <NUM> may be configured to mesh with a gear <NUM> movably coupled to at least one of the plurality of control knobs <NUM> and/or first actuator <NUM>, and particularly a plurality of teeth of gear <NUM>. Stated differently, movable rods <NUM>, and particularly gear rack <NUM>, and gear <NUM> may form a rack and pinion assembly with one another. Accordingly, the plurality of movable rods <NUM> may be configured to move (e.g., translate) relative to first body <NUM> in response to a rotation of a control knob 115A, 115B and/or first actuator <NUM> relative to first body <NUM>. In the example, each control knob 115A, 115B may be coupled to at least one gear <NUM>, and each gear <NUM> may be coupled to a pair of movable rods <NUM> for articulating shaft <NUM> in multiple directions (e.g., vertical articulation and lateral articulation). First actuator <NUM> may be coupled to a corresponding gear <NUM> that is further coupled to one movable rod <NUM> for actuating (e.g., lifting) the elevator at distal tip <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, each of the plurality of movable rods <NUM> may further include a grasper tool <NUM> at distal end <NUM>. Grasper tool <NUM> may include various suitable mechanisms for facilitating a connection between first connector assembly <NUM> and second connector assembly <NUM>. For example, grasper tool <NUM> may include a hook, an arm, a clip, and/or various other suitable structures. In the example, first body <NUM> may be configured such that at least a portion of first connector assembly <NUM>, and particularly grasper tools <NUM>, may extend at least partially outward from distal end <NUM> to interface with second connector assembly <NUM> when first body <NUM> is received within second body <NUM>. In other embodiments, first connector assembly <NUM> may be entirely disposed within housing <NUM>.

Second connector assembly <NUM> may include a plurality of movable rods <NUM> corresponding to the number of movable rods <NUM> of first connector assembly <NUM>. Each of the plurality of movable rods <NUM> may include a pair of pins <NUM> at a proximal end of movable rods <NUM>, with the pair of pins <NUM> separated from one another by a gap <NUM> therebetween. Gap <NUM> may be sized and shaped in accordance with a cross-sectional profile of grasper tool <NUM>, such that the pair of pins <NUM> is configured to receive grasper tool <NUM> within gap <NUM> to operably couple second connector assembly <NUM> to first connector assembly <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, second connector assembly <NUM> may further include a plurality of actuation cables or wires <NUM> coupled to a distal end of the plurality of movable rods <NUM>. In some embodiments, the plurality of movable rods <NUM> may be omitted entirely such that the plurality of wires <NUM> may be coupled directly to a distalmost pin <NUM> of the pair of pins <NUM>. The plurality of wires <NUM> may extend through housing <NUM> and a lumen of shaft <NUM>. A distal end of at least a subset of the plurality of wires <NUM> may be coupled to a distal portion of shaft <NUM>, and particularly along an internal surface of shaft <NUM> (e.g., an articulating joint) positioned adjacent to distal tip <NUM>. A distal end of at least one of the plurality of wires <NUM> may be coupled to a device at distal tip <NUM>, such as an elevator (not shown).

In some embodiments, second body <NUM> may include a floor <NUM> disposed within housing <NUM> and positioned proximate to proximal end <NUM>. Floor <NUM> may define a proximal cavity within housing <NUM> in which the plurality of pins <NUM> of second connector assembly <NUM> are housed. Floor <NUM> may be configured to maintain the plurality of pins <NUM> within the proximal cavity prior to an assembly of first body <NUM> to second body <NUM> to inhibit distal retraction of second connector assembly <NUM> into housing <NUM>. In other words, floor <NUM> may hold the plurality of pins <NUM> within housing <NUM> in an area adjacent to proximal end <NUM> to facilitate connection between second connector assembly <NUM> and first connector assembly <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, floor <NUM> may include a plurality of openings extending therethrough for receiving the plurality of movable rods <NUM> and/or wires <NUM>. In response to first connector assembly <NUM> engaging second connector assembly <NUM>, first body <NUM> may be configured to move (e.g., via control knobs <NUM> and first actuator <NUM>) the plurality of movable rods <NUM> and/or wires <NUM> relative to second body <NUM> in response to movement of the plurality of movable rods <NUM> within first body <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the plurality of movable rods <NUM> and/or wires <NUM> may move through the corresponding openings in floor <NUM> when second connector assembly <NUM> is actuated by first connector assembly <NUM>. Floor <NUM> may be further configured to serve as a stop that limits the amount of distal translation of each wire <NUM>. In other embodiments, first connector assembly <NUM> and second connector assembly <NUM> may be interchanged with one another such that first body <NUM> may include second connector assembly <NUM> and second body <NUM> may include first connector assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> shows distal end <NUM> of first body <NUM> and the one or more components disposed within housing <NUM>, including the plurality of grasper tools <NUM> of first connector assembly <NUM> and internal channel <NUM>. The plurality of grasper tools <NUM> may be disposed within first body <NUM> in an annular array about an internal perimeter of housing <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the plurality of grasper tools <NUM> may be positioned within housing <NUM> in various other suitable arrangements than that shown and described herein without departing from a scope of this disclosure. In the example, first body <NUM> may include five grasper tools <NUM>, a first pair of which may be coupled to a first control knob 115A for controlling a lateral (e.g., left-right) articulation of shaft <NUM>, a second pair of which may be coupled to a second control knob 115B for controlling a vertical (e.g. up-down) deflection of shaft <NUM>, and a fifth grasper tool <NUM> may be coupled to first actuator <NUM> for controlling an elevator at distal tip <NUM>.

First body <NUM> may further include a plurality of movable rods <NUM> (actuation members) disposed within housing <NUM> for controlling one or more components of second body <NUM> (e.g., a valve manifold <NUM>). In the example, first body <NUM> may include at least a first movable rod 148A having a distal end 149A and a second movable rod 148B having a distal end 149B. In other embodiments, first body <NUM> may include additional and/or fewer movable rods. As described in further detail herein, first movable rod 148A may be movably coupled to second actuator <NUM>, and second movable rod 148B may be movably coupled to second actuator <NUM> (<FIG>).

<FIG> shows proximal end <NUM> of second body <NUM> and the one or more components disposed within housing <NUM>, including the plurality of pins <NUM> of second connector assembly <NUM> and fluidics tube assembly <NUM>. The plurality of pins <NUM> may be disposed within second body <NUM> in an annular array about an internal perimeter of housing <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the plurality of pins <NUM> may be positioned within housing <NUM> in various other suitable arrangements in accordance with a corresponding position of the plurality of grasper tools <NUM> within first body <NUM>.

Second body <NUM> may further include a valve manifold <NUM> positioned proximate to proximal end <NUM>. As described in further detail below, valve manifold <NUM> may be configured to interact with one or more of the plurality of movable rods <NUM> of first body <NUM> to control fluid communication between a plurality of fluidics channels of valve manifold <NUM> (see <FIG>). For example, movable rods <NUM> may be configured to selectively divert fluid through the plurality of fluidics channels of valve manifold <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, with distal end <NUM> received within proximal end <NUM>, the plurality of grasper tools <NUM> may be located proximate to the plurality of pins <NUM>. For example, <FIG> shows each distal end <NUM> of first connector assembly <NUM> positioned adjacent to the pair of pins <NUM> of second connector assembly <NUM> with each grasper tool <NUM> positioned in alignment with gap <NUM>. A position of grasper tools <NUM> relative to pins <NUM> may correspond to an orientation of first body <NUM> relative to second body <NUM> when distal end <NUM> is received within proximal end <NUM> (see <FIG>). Accordingly, movement (e.g., rotation) of first body <NUM> and/or second body <NUM> relative to one another may move one or more of grasper tool <NUM> and/or the pair of pins <NUM> toward one another. Additionally, depressible pin <NUM> may be received against an interior surface (e.g., groove) of second body <NUM> at proximal end <NUM>, thereby compressing depressible pin <NUM> radially-inward.

As seen in <FIG>, with first body <NUM> rotated relative to second body <NUM> to a locked position (see <FIG>), the position of grasper tools <NUM> and pins <NUM> may facilitate a connection between first connector assembly <NUM> and second connector assembly <NUM>. For example, <FIG> shows each of the plurality of grasper tools <NUM> engaging the pair of pins <NUM> by extending through gap <NUM>. In this instance, first connector assembly <NUM> and second connector assembly <NUM> may operably couple control knobs <NUM> and first actuator <NUM> to wires <NUM>. Additionally, depressible pin <NUM> may move along the groove along the interior surface of proximal end <NUM> until aligning with aperture <NUM>, thereby extending through aperture <NUM> and securely coupling first body <NUM> to second body <NUM>. In this instance, first body <NUM> may be axially and rotatably fixed relative to second body <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a corresponding connection between actuators <NUM>, <NUM> on proximal end <NUM> of first body <NUM> and a corresponding movable rod (actuation member) disposed within housing <NUM>. As described in detail above, first body <NUM> may include second actuator <NUM> movably coupled to first movable rod 148A and third actuator <NUM> movably coupled to second movable rod 148B. In the example, first body <NUM> may include a coupling mechanism configured to connect each actuator with the corresponding movable rod.

For example, second actuator <NUM> may be movably coupled to a coupling mechanism 140A via an intermediate rod 142A extending between second actuator <NUM> and coupling mechanism 140A. Intermediate rod 142A may be coupled to coupling mechanism 140A at a first end, and may include a biasing mechanism 146A coupled to intermediate rod 142A. Biasing mechanism 146A may be configured to apply a radially-outward force against second actuator <NUM>, thereby urging second actuator <NUM> to an extended (unactuated) position when in a default state.

Still referring to <FIG>, first movable rod 148A may be directly coupled to coupling mechanism 140A along a second end that is different than the first end, and distal end 149A of first movable rod 148A may be positioned in a proximal (retracted) state when second actuator <NUM> is in the extended (unactuated) position. Coupling mechanism 140A may be configured to move (e.g., translate) first movable rod 148A relative to housing <NUM> in response to an actuation (e.g., depression) of second actuator <NUM>, thereby positioning distal end 149A in a distal (extended) state.

In this instance, actuation of second actuator <NUM> may cause a compression of biasing mechanism 146A, and a translation of intermediate rod 142A and corresponding movement of coupling mechanism 140A about a fixed pivot pin 144A between the opposing first and second ends. In response to coupling mechanism 140A moving (e.g., pivoting) about fixed pivot pin 144A, first movable rod 148A may move (e.g., translate) distally from first body <NUM> in a direction that is transverse from a (lateral) translation of intermediate rod 142A.

Still referring to <FIG>, third actuator <NUM> may be movably coupled to a coupling mechanism 140B that is substantially similar to coupling mechanism 140A shown and described above. For example, second movable rod 148B may be directly coupled to coupling mechanism 140B, and third actuator <NUM> may be coupled to coupling mechanism 140B via an intermediate rod 142B and a biasing mechanism 146B positioned therebetween. Coupling mechanism 140B may be configured to move (e.g. pivot) about a fixed pivot pin 144B to translate second movable rod 148A and distal end 149B. Accordingly, third actuator <NUM> and second movable rod 148B may be configured and operable similar to second actuator <NUM> and first movable rod 148A, respectively. As described in further detail herein, distal end 149A of first movable rod 148A and distal end 149B of second movable rod 148B may be configured to interact with valve manifold <NUM> when first body <NUM> is coupled to second body <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, housing <NUM> of second body <NUM> is depicted with valve manifold <NUM> positioned proximate to proximal end <NUM>. Valve manifold <NUM> may include a flexible body <NUM> including a proximal end and a distal end that is opposite the proximal end. Flexible body <NUM> may be formed of various elastic materials capable of moving, flexing, and/or at least partially deforming in response to an application of force thereto, such as, for example, by one or more components of first body <NUM> (e.g., movable rods). In some embodiments, flexible body <NUM> may be formed of an elastic membrane, rubber, and/or various other flexible materials capable of selective deformation. As described in detail herein, the proximal end of flexible body <NUM> may be configured and operable to interact with one or more components of first body <NUM> (e.g., the plurality of movable rods), such as at a first region <NUM>, a second region <NUM>, and more.

Valve manifold <NUM> may include a plurality of fluidics channels extending through flexible body <NUM>, such as between the proximal end and the distal end. The plurality of fluidics channels may extend from fluidics tube assembly <NUM> and be received in valve manifold <NUM>, thereby providing fluid communication between external device <NUM> and shaft <NUM>. In some embodiments, the fluidics channels in valve manifold <NUM> may be integral with the fluidics channels within fluidics tube assembly <NUM>, while in other embodiments valve manifold <NUM> and fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may include corresponding fluidics channels that are coupled to one another within housing <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, valve manifold <NUM> may further include a cavity <NUM> disposed within flexible body <NUM>, and one or more of the plurality of fluidics channels may extend into cavity <NUM>. Accordingly, one or more of the plurality of fluidics channels in valve manifold <NUM> may be in fluid communication with cavity <NUM>. In the example, a first fluidics channel of valve manifold <NUM> may be segmented into a first segment 173A and a second segment 173B by cavity <NUM>. In other words, cavity <NUM> may be disposed inline along the first fluidics channel such that the first fluidics channel may be separated into a pair of segments 173A, 173B.

Further, cavity <NUM> may be disposed inline along a second fluidics channel of valve manifold <NUM> such that the second fluidics channel may be segmented into a first segment 174A and a second segment 174B. A third fluidics channel of valve manifold <NUM> may be segmented into a first segment 175A and a second segment 175B, with first segment 175A extending into flexible body <NUM> from fluidics tube assembly <NUM> and second segment 175B extending into flexible body <NUM> from port <NUM>. It should be understood that each of the second segments of the fluidics channels extend through distal end <NUM> and a longitudinal length of shaft <NUM>, terminating at an opening located at distal tip <NUM> (<FIG>).

In the example, the first fluidics channel (i.e. first segment 173A and second segment 173B) may define a water channel, the second fluidics channel (i.e. first segment 174A and second segment 174B) may define a pressurized air channel, and the third fluidics channel (i.e. first segment 175A and second segment 175B) may define a suction and working channel. It should be appreciated that additional and/or fewer channels may be included in valve manifold <NUM> and/or fluidics tube assembly <NUM> without departing from a scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may include one or more fluidics channels that are not coupled to valve manifold <NUM>, such as, for example, a fourth fluidics channel <NUM>. In this instance, fourth fluidics channel <NUM> may extend through housing <NUM> and into shaft <NUM>, terminating at distal tip <NUM>. In the example, fourth fluidics channel <NUM> may include a pressurized-water channel.

Still referring to <FIG>, valve manifold <NUM> may further include a movable valve <NUM> disposed within cavity <NUM>. Movable valve <NUM> may include a movable valve body <NUM> (hereinafter "body <NUM>") having a longitudinal length defined between a proximal end <NUM> and a distal end <NUM>. In the embodiment, body <NUM> may have a cylindrical shape corresponding to a cross-sectional profile of cavity <NUM>. Movable valve <NUM> may further include an internal lumen <NUM> disposed through body <NUM>, such as at proximal end <NUM>. Internal lumen <NUM> may be sized, shaped, and configured to extend between one or more sides of body <NUM>, thereby facilitating fluid communication between the one or more sides of body <NUM>.

In the embodiment, internal lumen <NUM> may define a T-shaped channel extending through body <NUM> and terminating at three openings along three different sides of body <NUM> (e.g., a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and proximal end <NUM>). Accordingly, internal lumen <NUM> may facilitate fluid communication between the at least three sides of body <NUM>. In other embodiments, internal lumen <NUM> may include various other suitable sizes, shapes, and/or configurations than those shown and described herein without departing from a scope of this disclosure. Movable valve <NUM> may further include one or more seals <NUM> (e.g., gaskets, O-rings, etc.) coupled to and disposed about an exterior of body <NUM>. The one or more seals <NUM> may be configured to form an air-tight fluid seal against an inner wall of flexible body <NUM> defining cavity <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the one or more seals <NUM> may facilitate movement of movable valve <NUM> relative to cavity <NUM> by slidably engaging the inner wall of flexible body <NUM>. In the example, movable valve <NUM> may include a first pair of seals <NUM> adjacent to proximal end <NUM>, and a second pair of seals <NUM> adjacent to distal end <NUM>. The first pair of seals <NUM> may be separated from one another on each side of body <NUM> by an opening of internal lumen <NUM>. As described in further detail below, movable valve <NUM> may be configured to move within cavity <NUM>, and relative to flexible body <NUM>, to selectively adjust the fluid communication between the plurality of fluidics channels within valve manifold <NUM>.

Valve manifold <NUM> may further include a biasing mechanism <NUM> (e.g., a spring) disposed within cavity <NUM>. Biasing mechanism <NUM> may include a distal end and a proximal end, with the proximal end coupled to movable valve <NUM> at distal end <NUM>. The distal end of biasing mechanism <NUM> may be coupled to an interior wall of flexible body <NUM> defining cavity <NUM>, such that biasing mechanism <NUM> may be disposed between movable valve <NUM> and the interior wall defining cavity <NUM>. Biasing mechanism <NUM> may be configured to apply a proximally-directed force against distal end <NUM>, thereby urging movable valve <NUM> in a proximal direction when biasing mechanism <NUM> is in an expanded configuration (<FIG>). As described further herein, biasing mechanism <NUM> may be moved to a compressed configuration (<FIG>) in response to movable valve <NUM> moving distally relative to cavity <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, valve manifold <NUM> may include one or more vents forming an opening in flexible body <NUM>, with the openings being in fluid communication with one or more of the plurality of fluidics channels. The one or more vents may connect the one or more fluidics channels with an atmospheric pressure from an internal cavity of housing <NUM>. In the example, valve manifold <NUM> may include at least a first vent <NUM> and a second vent <NUM> positioned along the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>. First vent <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to first region <NUM> along the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, and second vent <NUM> may be positioned adjacent to second region <NUM> along the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>. As described further herein, first body <NUM> may be configured to selectively open and close first vent <NUM> and second vent <NUM> by moving first region <NUM> and second region <NUM>, respectively, to control fluid communication between the fluidics channels of valve manifold <NUM>.

According to an exemplary method of using medical device <NUM>, first body (reusable handle) <NUM> may be coupled to second body (disposable tube) <NUM> (<FIG>) in response to receiving distal end <NUM> within proximal end <NUM> (<FIG>). Umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be coupled to first body <NUM> via a corresponding port along housing <NUM>. In other embodiments, first body <NUM> and umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be a unitary component such that housing <NUM> and umbilicus tube <NUM> may be fixedly secured to one another.

Fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may extend through internal channel <NUM> (<FIG>) and exit first body <NUM> at a corresponding port on housing <NUM>. Fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may be fluidly coupled to external device <NUM> at distal end <NUM> to provide fluid communication between second body <NUM> and external device <NUM> through first body <NUM> (<FIG>). As described in detail above, fluidics tube assembly <NUM> may shield first body <NUM> and umbilicus assembly <NUM> from fluid communication second body <NUM>, and particularly the fluidics channels receiving and/or delivering various fluids and biological matter during the procedure.

Housing <NUM> may be locked to housing <NUM> via the receipt of depressible pin <NUM> into aperture <NUM> (<FIG>). It should be appreciated that the locking mechanism of medical device <NUM> (e.g. depressible pin <NUM> and aperture <NUM>) may inhibit disengagement of first body <NUM> from second body <NUM> during use of medical device <NUM> during a procedure. First connector assembly <NUM> may engage second connector assembly <NUM> in response to proximal end <NUM> receiving distal end <NUM> and first body <NUM> rotating relative to second body <NUM> (or vice versa) when medical device <NUM> is assembled (<FIG>).

With first connector assembly <NUM> coupled to second connector assembly <NUM> (via an engagement of grasper tools <NUM> and pins <NUM>), a user of medical device <NUM> may actuate the one or more control knobs <NUM> on first body <NUM> to control an articulation of shaft <NUM> and distal tip <NUM> on second body <NUM> (<FIG>). As described above, each control knob <NUM> may be coupled to at least one gear <NUM>, and each gear <NUM> may be further coupled to at least a pair of movable rods <NUM> along gear racks <NUM> (<FIG>). Accordingly, rotation of control knobs <NUM> may provide for a translation of movable rods <NUM> relative to housing <NUM> and a corresponding translation of wires <NUM> relative to housing <NUM>. With a distal end of each wire <NUM> coupled to an interior surface of shaft <NUM>, control knobs <NUM> may control an articulation (e.g., lateral and vertical deflection) of shaft <NUM> and distal tip <NUM>.

Further, the plurality of movable rods may extend into second body <NUM> to control actuation of one or more components of second body <NUM>, such as fluid communication between the fluidics channels of valve manifold <NUM>. As described above, each of second actuator <NUM> and third actuator <NUM> may be movably coupled to a corresponding movable rod 148A, 148B via a coupling mechanism 140A, 140B (<FIG>). Actuation of second actuator <NUM> and/or third actuator <NUM> may provide for a translation of movable rods 148A, 148B relative to housing <NUM> and housing <NUM>. With distal ends 149A, 149B received within housing <NUM> and positioned adjacent to valve manifold <NUM>, second actuator <NUM> and third actuator <NUM> may control an operation of valve manifold <NUM>.

Referring specifically to <FIG>, valve manifold <NUM> is depicted in an unactuated state with first movable rod 148A and second movable rod 148B separated from the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>. A position of first movable rod 148A and second movable rod 148B corresponds to an unactuated state of second actuator <NUM> and third actuator <NUM>, respectively. In this instance, movable valve <NUM> may remain in a first (proximal) position with biasing mechanism <NUM> in an expanded (default) configuration. It should be appreciated that the first (proximal) position may define a default position of movable valve <NUM>. Further, the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, and particularly first region <NUM> and second region <NUM>, remain in a first (unactuated) position. Accordingly, first vent <NUM> and second vent <NUM> may be maintained in an open state.

In this instance, a fluid (e.g., water) received within first segment 173A of the first fluidics channel may be maintained within valve manifold <NUM> while movable valve <NUM> is positioned in the first (proximal) position. For example, the fluid received into cavity <NUM> via first segment <NUM> may be inhibited from extending into second segment 173B due to a relative position of the plurality of seals <NUM>, and particularly a distalmost seal <NUM> on distal end <NUM>. Accordingly, the distalmost seal <NUM> may be positioned between an outlet of first segment 173A into cavity <NUM> and an inlet of second segment 173B from cavity <NUM>, thereby sealing the fluid from first segment 173A within cavity <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, with movable valve <NUM> in the first (proximal) position, a fluid (e.g., pressurized air) received within first segment 174A of the second fluidics channel may be received in cavity <NUM> and internal lumen <NUM>, which is aligned with the outlet of first segment 174A into cavity <NUM>. As first movable rod 148A is separated from the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, and particularly first region <NUM>, first vent <NUM> may be maintained in an open configuration. Accordingly, the fluid received in internal lumen <NUM> may be directed toward first vent <NUM>, which provides access to an internal atmosphere of housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the fluid (e.g. pressurized air) received within the cavity of housing <NUM> may be released from second body <NUM>, such as via one or more openings (not shown) on housing <NUM>.

It should be appreciated that movable valve <NUM> may facilitate access to both second segment 174B and first vent <NUM> via internal lumen <NUM> when in the first (proximal) position. Valve manifold <NUM> may be configured such that the fluid (e.g., pressurized air) received from first segment 174A may be directed toward first vent <NUM> (e.g., atmospheric pressure) in lieu of second segment 174B as a path of least resistance.

First segment 175A of the third fluidics channel may be fluidly coupled to a negative pressure source such that a negative pressure may be generated through valve manifold <NUM> via first segment 175A. With second movable rod 148B separated from the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, and particularly second region <NUM>, second vent <NUM> may be maintained in an open configuration. Accordingly, any negative pressure received in first segment 175A may be directed toward second vent <NUM>, which provides access to an internal atmosphere of housing <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, valve manifold <NUM> is depicted in a first actuated state with second movable rod 148B translated distally and abutting against the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, corresponding to an actuated state of third actuator <NUM>. In some embodiments, medical device <NUM> may be configured to generate a feedback (e.g., audible, tactile, etc.) in response to valve manifold <NUM> transitioning to the first actuated state, such as in response to second movable rod 148B interfacing with flexible body <NUM>.

The proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, and particularly second region <NUM>, may move to a second (actuated) position in response to second movable rod 148B applying a distally-directed force thereto. In this instance, flexible body <NUM> at second region <NUM> may be at least partially deformed in response to the distal translation of distal end 149B, thereby causing second vent <NUM> to move from the open configuration (<FIG>) to a closed configuration. With second vent <NUM> closed, the fluid (e.g., negative pressure) generated in first segment 175A may travel through second segment 175B. It should be understood that second segment 175B may extend through shaft <NUM> and terminate at distal tip <NUM> (<FIG>), such that suction may be provided at distal tip <NUM> during the procedure. Accordingly, third actuator <NUM> may be configured to control fluid communication through the third fluidics channel of valve manifold <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, valve manifold <NUM> is depicted in a second actuated state with first movable rod 148A translated distally and abutting against the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, corresponding to an actuated state of second actuator <NUM>. In this instance, second movable rod 148B may be returned to a proximal position such that distal end 149B no longer abuts against flexible body <NUM>. In some embodiments, medical device <NUM> may be configured to generate a feedback (e.g., audible, tactile, etc.) in response to valve manifold <NUM> transitioning to the second actuated state, such as in response to first movable rod 148A interfacing with flexible body <NUM>. In this instance, movable valve <NUM> remains in the first (proximal) position with biasing mechanism <NUM> in the expanded (default) configuration.

The proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, and particularly first region <NUM>, may move to a second (actuated) position in response to first movable rod 148A applying a distally-directed force thereto. In this instance, flexible body <NUM> at first region <NUM> may be at least partially deformed in response to the distal translation of distal end 149A, thereby causing first vent <NUM> to move from the open configuration (<FIG>) to a closed configuration. With first vent <NUM> closed and movable valve <NUM> maintained in the first (proximal) position relative to cavity <NUM>, the fluid (e.g., pressurized air) received from first segment 174A may travel through internal lumen <NUM> and into second segment 174B.

It should be understood that second segment 174B may extend through shaft <NUM> and terminate at distal tip <NUM> (<FIG>), such that the fluid may be delivered from distal tip <NUM> to provide insufflation during the procedure. Accordingly, second actuator <NUM> may be configured to control fluid communication through the second fluidics channel of valve manifold <NUM>. With movable valve <NUM> maintained in the first (proximal) position and biasing mechanism <NUM> in the expanded (default) configuration, fluid (e.g., water) received in valve manifold <NUM> from first segment 173A of the first fluidics channel remains within cavity <NUM> and sealed from accessing second segment 173B by the one or more seals <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, valve manifold <NUM> is depicted in a second actuated state with first movable rod 148A translated further distally and abutting against the proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, corresponding to a second actuated state of second actuator <NUM>. In some embodiments, medical device <NUM> may be configured to generate a feedback (e.g., audible, tactile, etc.) in response to valve manifold <NUM> transitioning to the third actuated state, such as in response to distal end 149A interfacing with flexible body <NUM>. In this instance, movable valve <NUM> is moved (e.g., translated) to a second (distal) position with biasing mechanism <NUM> in a compressed configuration within cavity <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the second (distal) position defines an actuated position of movable valve <NUM>.

The proximal end of flexible body <NUM>, and particularly first region <NUM>, is moved to a third (actuated) position in response to distal end 149A applying a distally-directed force thereto. It should be appreciated that the force applied is relatively greater than the force applied by distal end 149A in <FIG>. In this instance, flexible body <NUM> may be at least partially deformed, thereby abutting against proximal end <NUM> and causing movable valve <NUM> to translate relative to cavity <NUM>. In this instance, fluid communication between first segment 174A and second segment 174B of the second fluidics channel is no longer provided through internal lumen <NUM> given a relocation of movable valve <NUM>, such that the fluid (e.g., pressurized air) received through valve manifold <NUM> via the second fluidics channel is terminated.

Additionally, with distal end <NUM> moved distally relative to cavity <NUM>, the one or more seals <NUM> may move to establish fluid communication between first segment 173A and second segment 173B of the first fluidics channel. In this instance, the one or more seals <NUM> are moved and no longer inhibit the fluid (e.g. water) received into cavity <NUM> from first segment 173A from being blocked for receipt in second segment 173B. It should be understood that second segment 173B may extend through shaft <NUM> and terminate at distal tip <NUM> (<FIG>), such that the fluid may be delivered from distal tip <NUM> to provide irrigation during the procedure. Accordingly, second actuator <NUM> may be configured to control fluid communication through the first fluidics channel of valve manifold <NUM>.

Actuation of first actuator <NUM> may provide for a translation of at least one movable rod <NUM> relative to housing <NUM> and a corresponding translation of at least one wire <NUM> relative to housing <NUM> (via a connection between first connector assembly <NUM> and second connector assembly <NUM>), thereby causing actuation of a device (e.g., an elevator) at distal tip <NUM>.

Upon completion of the procedure with medical device <NUM>, a user may disassemble first body <NUM> from second body <NUM> by actuating depressible pin <NUM> and rotating first body <NUM> relative to second body <NUM> (or vice versa). As first body <NUM> is rotated relative to second body <NUM>, first connector assembly <NUM> may disengage second connector assembly <NUM>. With depressible pin <NUM> removed from aperture <NUM>, first body <NUM> may be pulled proximally to retract distal end <NUM> from within proximal end <NUM>. With second body <NUM> decoupled from first body <NUM> and fluidics tube assembly <NUM> retracted from internal channel <NUM>, second body <NUM> may be disposed of by a user of medical device <NUM>. First body <NUM> and/or umbilicus assembly <NUM> may be reprocessed and cleaned for further use given that the plurality of fluidics channels containing biological matters (e.g., biohazardous fluids) were contained within second body <NUM>.

Each of the aforementioned systems, devices, assemblies, and methods may be used to treat a target treatment site with a modular medical device capable of selective assembly and disassembly. By providing a medical device with reusable and disposable components capable of establishing mechanical, electrical, and fluidic connection with one another, instances of material waste from fully disposable devices, and cross-contamination between patients through use of fully reusable devices, may be minimized.

Claim 1:
A medical device (<NUM>), comprising:
a first body (<NUM>) including:
a first actuation member (<NUM>) including a first connector (<NUM>); and
a second actuation member (<NUM>);
a second body (<NUM>) for attachment to, and detachment from, the first body (<NUM>), the second body (<NUM>) including:
an actuation wire (<NUM>);
a second connector (<NUM>) at a proximal end of the actuation wire (<NUM>); and
a valve (<NUM>) having one or more channels (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for receiving a material;
wherein attachment of the first body (<NUM>) with the second body results in the first connector (<NUM>) engaging the second connector (<NUM>), such that movement of the first actuation member (<NUM>) causes a corresponding movement of the actuation wire (<NUM>); and
wherein moving the second actuation member (<NUM>) into the second body (<NUM>) to interact with the valve (<NUM>) is configured to selectively direct the material through the one or more channels (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).