阅读说明：本技术 用于医疗废物收集组件的歧管以及用其收集组织样本的方法 (Manifold for medical waste collection assembly and method of collecting tissue samples therewith ) 是由 M·佐林格 M·彼得森 于 2019-05-17 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种利用医疗废物收集组件来收集组织样本的歧管。壳体的基部部分被与歧管接收器可拆卸地接合,以提供从接收抽吸管线的入口接头的抽吸路径。托盘可以可移除地定位在附件套筒内。定位特征有助于限定在托盘的基部部分和附件套筒的下阻挡件之间的间隙。托盘可以包括控制表面,以将歧管在密封配置和放气配置之间移动,在放气配置中,提供了通过上述间隙并且在托盘下方的第二抽吸路径。防回流阀可以设置有抽吸路径内、托盘和过滤器元件之间。还公开了一种用于收集组织样本的方法。(A manifold for collecting tissue samples using a medical waste collection assembly. The base portion of the housing is removably engaged with the manifold receiver to provide a suction path from an inlet fitting that receives a suction line. The tray may be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve. The locating feature helps define a gap between the base portion of the tray and the lower stop of the accessory sleeve. The tray may include a control surface to move the manifold between a sealing configuration and a deflated configuration in which a second suction path is provided through the gap and beneath the tray. An anti-drainback valve may be provided within the suction path between the tray and the filter element. A method for collecting a tissue sample is also disclosed.)

1. A manifold for collecting a tissue sample through an aspiration line, the manifold comprising:

a housing defining a manifold volume space, an inlet bore in fluid communication with the manifold volume space and adapted to be in fluid communication with the suction line, an accessory opening to an accessory hub in fluid communication with the manifold volume space, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a first suction path from a suction line through the accessory hub and the manifold volume space to the outlet opening, wherein the housing includes a locating feature disposed within the accessory hub; and

a tray comprising a control surface, a sealing surface coupled to the control surface, a base portion, and a side portion coupled to the base portion, wherein the base portion and the side portion extend from the sealing surface and define a tissue collection cavity, and a porous feature is within the base portion, wherein the tray is adapted to be removably coupled with the housing such that (i) the sealing surface seals the accessory opening, (ii) the tissue collection cavity is positioned within the accessory sleeve and open toward the inlet aperture, (iii) the base portion and/or the side portion engages the positioning feature within the accessory sleeve to provide a gap between the base portion of the tray and a lower barrier of the housing defining the accessory sleeve,

wherein the control surface of the tray is adapted to receive input from a user to move the sealing surface away from the portion of the accessory opening adjacent the lower barrier to provide and position a second suction path from the accessory opening to the outlet opening through the gap between the base portion of the tray and the lower barrier of the housing defining the accessory sleeve.

2. The manifold of claim 1, wherein the housing further defines an aperture having a first end within the lower barrier and a second end open to the manifold volume.

3. The manifold of claim 1 or 2, wherein the locating feature comprises a platform defining a slot, wherein the gap is further defined between the base portion of the tray and the slot.

4. The manifold of claim 3, wherein the tray further comprises a foot extending from the base portion in a direction opposite the tissue collection cavity, the foot positioned adjacent the platform when the tray is coupled with the housing.

5. The manifold of any of claims 1-4, wherein the housing further comprises an orientation feature within the accessory sleeve, and the tray further comprises a complementary orientation feature configured to removably engage the orientation feature to allow the tray to be coupled with the housing in a single relative orientation.

6. The manifold of claim 5, wherein the orientation feature of the housing is a groove and the complementary orientation feature of the tray is a rail extending from the side portion.

7. The manifold of any of claims 1-6, further comprising a grip defining the control surface, wherein the sealing surface is rigidly coupled to the grip, the grip configured to pivot the sealing surface away from the portion of the accessory opening.

8. The manifold of claim 7, wherein the grip comprises first and second portions extending from the sealing surface, the first and second portions configured to be pinched by a user to move the first portion toward the second portion and pivot the sealing surface away from the portion of the attachment opening.

9. The manifold of claim 7, wherein the sealing surface comprises a resiliently pliable material and is configured to pivotably flex away from the portion of the accessory opening.

10. The manifold of claim 3, wherein the slot extends to and defines a portion of the accessory opening.

11. The manifold of any of claims 1-10, further comprising a filter element disposed within the housing in the first and second suction paths.

12. The manifold of any of claims 1-10, wherein the housing further comprises an upper barrier at least partially defining the accessory sleeve, wherein the inlet bore is coupled to and extends distally from the upper barrier.

13. The manifold of claim 12, further comprising a lens coupled to the upper barrier and shaped to provide magnification within the accessory sleeve.

14. A manifold for collecting a tissue sample through an aspiration line, the manifold comprising:

a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction line, an accessory opening to an accessory hub in fluid communication with the manifold volume, a slot within the accessory hub extending to the accessory opening, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a suction path from a suction line through the accessory hub and the manifold volume to the outlet opening; and

a tray comprising a control surface, a sealing surface coupled to the control surface, a base portion, and a side portion coupled to the base portion, wherein the base portion and the side portion extend from the sealing surface and define a tissue collection cavity, and a porous feature is within the base portion, wherein the tray is adapted to be removably coupled with the housing in a sealed configuration in which (i) the sealing surface seals the accessory opening, (ii) the tissue collection cavity is positioned within the accessory sleeve and open toward the inlet aperture, (iii) a gap is defined between the base portion of the tray and the slot within the accessory sleeve,

wherein the control surface of the tray is adapted to receive input from a user to actuate the manifold from the sealed configuration to a deflated configuration in which a portion of the sealing surface is moved away from a portion of the fitment opening to provide and position a second suction path from the fitment opening through the slot and the manifold volume to the outlet opening.

15. The manifold of claim 14, wherein the housing further defines a bore having a first end open to the slot and a second end open to the manifold volume.

16. The manifold of claim 14 or 15, wherein the housing comprises a lower stop at least partially defining the accessory sleeve, the lower stop comprising a platform defining the slot therebetween.

17. The manifold of claim 16, wherein the tray further comprises a foot extending from the base portion in a direction opposite the tissue collection cavity, wherein the foot is positioned adjacent the platform when the tray is coupled with the housing.

18. The manifold of any of claims 14-17, wherein the housing further comprises an orientation feature within the accessory sleeve, and the tray further comprises a complementary orientation feature configured to removably engage the orientation feature to allow the tray to be coupled with the housing in a single relative orientation.

19. The manifold of claim 18, wherein the orientation feature of the housing is a groove and the complementary orientation feature of the tray is a rail extending from the side portion.

20. The manifold of any of claims 14-19, further comprising a grip defining the control surface, the sealing surface rigidly coupled to the grip, wherein the grip is configured to pivot to actuate the manifold from the sealed configuration to the deflated configuration.

21. The manifold of claim 20, wherein the grip comprises first and second portions extending from the sealing surface, the first and second portions configured to be pinched by a user to move the first portion toward the second portion and actuate the manifold from the sealed configuration to the deflated configuration.

22. The manifold of claim 21, wherein the sealing surface comprises a resiliently pliable material and is configured to pivotably flex away from the portion of the accessory opening.

23. The manifold of any of claims 14-22, further comprising a filter element disposed within the housing in the first and second suction paths.

24. The manifold of any of claims 14-23, wherein the housing further comprises an upper barrier at least partially defining the accessory sleeve, wherein the inlet aperture is coupled to and extends distally from the upper barrier.

25. The manifold of claim 24, further comprising a lens coupled to the upper barrier and shaped to provide magnification within the accessory sleeve.

26. A method for collecting a tissue sample through a suction line coupled to a manifold, the manifold comprising a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume in fluid communication with the suction line, an accessory opening to an accessory hub in fluid communication with the manifold volume, a positioning feature disposed within the accessory hub, an outlet opening in fluid communication with a suction source, and a tray comprising a control surface, a sealing surface coupled to the control surface, a base portion, and a side portion coupled to the base portion, wherein the base portion and the side portion extend from the sealing surface and define a tissue collection cavity, and a porous feature within the base portion, the method comprising the steps of:

coupling the tray with the housing such that the tissue collection cavity is within the accessory sleeve and open toward the inlet aperture, the sealing surface seals the accessory opening, and the base portion and/or the side portion engage a locating feature within the accessory sleeve to provide a gap between the base portion of the tray and a lower barrier of the housing defining the accessory sleeve to provide a first suction path from the suction line through the accessory sleeve and the manifold volume to the outlet opening;

operating the suction source to collect a tissue sample within the tissue collection cavity of the tray using the porous feature; and

applying an input to the control surface of the tray moves at least a portion of the sealing surface away from a portion of the attachment opening proximate the lower barrier to provide and position a second suction path from the attachment opening to the outlet opening through a gap between the base portion of the tray and the lower barrier of the housing.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the tray further comprises a grip defining the control surface and including first and second portions coupled to the sealing surface, respectively, wherein the step of applying the input further comprises moving the first portion toward the second portion to pivotably bend the portion of the sealing surface away from the portion of the attachment opening.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising pinching the first and second portions to move the first portion toward the second portion.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to apparatus, systems and methods for surgical procedures and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to surgical procedures utilizing a medical waste collection assembly to collect tissue samples under suction.

Background

Certain surgical procedures involve the removal of a tissue sample for evaluation. For example, a polypectomy procedure involves removal of a polyp from a surgical site within a patient, such as the uterus of the colon or endometrial tissue. Typically, polyps are aspirated using a medical waste collection assembly with suction applied at the surgical site. Once a polyp is collected in the suction path, retrieval of the polyp is an area that requires special attention and investigation. Many known systems and methods have several drawbacks, including increased time and inconvenience for the surgical procedure, potential exposure to hazardous medical waste, inability to collect multiple tissue samples, and the like. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved manifold and method of collecting tissue samples utilizing a manifold and a medical waste collection assembly.

Disclosure of Invention

A manifold for collecting tissue samples through an aspiration line. The housing defines a manifold volume, an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction line, an accessory opening to an accessory shoe in fluid communication with the manifold volume, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a first suction path from the suction line through the accessory shoe and the manifold volume to the outlet opening. The housing includes a locating feature disposed within the accessory sleeve. The manifold includes a tray including a control surface, a sealing surface coupled to the control surface, a base portion, and a side portion coupled to the base portion, wherein the base portion and the side portion extend from the sealing surface and define a tissue collection cavity, a porous feature within the base portion. The tray is adapted to be removably coupled with the housing such that (i) the sealing surface seals the accessory opening, (ii) the tissue collection cavity is positioned within the accessory sleeve and opens toward the inlet aperture, and (iii) the base portion and/or the side portion engage a positioning feature within the accessory sleeve to provide a gap between the base portion of the tray and a lower barrier of the housing defining the accessory sleeve. The tray is adapted to receive input from a user to move the sealing surface away from the portion of the fitment opening adjacent the lower barrier to provide and position a second suction path from the fitment opening to the outlet opening through a gap between the base portion of the tray and the lower barrier of the housing defining the fitment sleeve.

A manifold for collecting tissue samples through an aspiration line. The manifold includes a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction line, an accessory opening to an accessory shoe in fluid communication with the manifold volume, a slot extending within the accessory shoe to the accessory opening, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a suction path from the suction line through the accessory shoe and the manifold volume to the outlet opening. The manifold includes a tray including a control surface, a sealing surface coupled to the control surface, a base portion, and a side portion coupled to the base portion, wherein the base portion and the side portion extend from the sealing surface and define a tissue collection cavity, and a porous feature within the base portion. The tray is adapted to be removably coupled with the housing in a sealed configuration in which (i) the sealing surface seals the accessory opening, (ii) the tissue collection cavity is positioned within the accessory sleeve and opens toward the inlet aperture, and (iii) a gap is defined between a base portion of the tray and the slot within the accessory sleeve. The control surface of the tray is adapted to receive input from a user to actuate the manifold from the sealed configuration to the deflated configuration in which a portion of the sealing surface is moved away from a portion of the attachment opening to provide and position a second suction path from the attachment opening through the slot and the manifold volume space to the outlet opening.

A method for collecting a tissue sample through a suction line coupled to a manifold. The manifold includes a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume in fluid communication with the suction line, an accessory opening to an accessory shoe in fluid communication with the manifold volume, a locating feature disposed within the accessory shoe, and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the suction source. The manifold includes a tray including a control surface, a sealing surface coupled to the control surface, a base portion, and a side portion coupled to the base portion, wherein the base portion and the side portion extend from the sealing surface and define a tissue collection cavity, and a porous feature within the base portion. The tray is coupled with the housing such that the tissue collection cavity is within the accessory sleeve and open toward the inlet aperture, the sealing surface seals the accessory opening, and the base portion and/or the side portion engage a positioning feature within the accessory sleeve to provide a gap between the base portion of the tray and a lower stop of the housing defining the accessory sleeve. A first suction path is provided from the suction line through the accessory sheath and the manifold volume to the outlet opening. The suction source is operated to collect a tissue sample within the tissue collection cavity of the tray using the porous feature. An input is applied to the control surface of the tray to move at least a portion of the sealing surface away from a portion of the fitment opening proximate the lower barrier to provide and position a second suction path from the fitment opening through a gap between the base portion of the tray and the lower barrier of the housing to the outlet opening.

Drawings

Advantages of the present disclosure will become more readily appreciated by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 is a schematic view of a portion of a medical waste collection assembly with a manifold positioned within a manifold receiver of the medical waste collection assembly.

FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a manifold engaged with a manifold receiver including a suction inlet.

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the manifold.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the manifold of fig. 3 with the tray removed from the accessory sleeve.

Fig. 5 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 3.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 3 taken along section line 6-6.

Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of fig. 6 with the control surface moved to a drain configuration.

Fig. 8 is a top perspective view of the tray.

Fig. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the tray.

Fig. 10 is a rear view of the cap portion of the manifold.

FIG. 11 is a front view of the body portion of the manifold.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a manifold.

Fig. 13 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 12.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 12 taken along section line 5-5.

Fig. 15 is an exploded view of the cap portion of the manifold of fig. 12.

Fig. 16 is a rear perspective view of the cap head of the cap portion.

Fig. 17 is a rear perspective view of the cap panel of the cap portion of fig. 18.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another cap panel and tray of a manifold, wherein the cap panel includes a magnifying lens.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a tray of the manifold of FIG. 12, wherein the tray defines a tissue collection cavity and a bypass channel.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another tray for use with the manifold of FIG. 12, wherein the tray includes a magnifying lens.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of another tray for use with the manifold of fig. 12.

Fig. 22 is a perspective view of another tray for use with the manifold of fig. 12.

Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a manifold.

Fig. 24 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 23.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 23 taken along section line 25-25.

FIG. 26 is a front view of a tray of the manifold of FIG. 23, wherein the tray defines a tissue collection cavity and a bypass channel.

Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a manifold.

Fig. 28 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 27.

Fig. 29 is a perspective view of a manifold.

Fig. 30 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 29.

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 29 taken along section line 31-31.

Fig. 32 is a rear perspective view of the cap portion of the manifold of fig. 29.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a tray of the manifold of FIG. 29, wherein the tray defines a tissue collection chamber.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a manifold.

Fig. 35 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 34.

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 34 taken along section line 36-36.

Fig. 37 is a front perspective view of the cap portion of the manifold of fig. 34.

Fig. 38 is a rear perspective view of the cap portion of fig. 37.

Fig. 39 is a perspective view of a sliding member of the manifold of fig. 34.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a tray of the manifold of FIG. 40, wherein the tray defines a tissue collection chamber.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a manifold.

Fig. 42 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 41.

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 41 with the rotor in a tissue collection position.

FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 41 with the rotor in the bypass position.

FIG. 45 is a partial cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 41, schematically illustrating the aspiration path with the rotor in a tissue collection position.

FIG. 46 is a partial cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 41, schematically illustrating the suction path with the rotor in a bypass position.

FIG. 47 is a front perspective view of the cap portion of the manifold of FIG. 41 including a stator defining a window.

FIG. 48 is a first perspective view of a rotor of the manifold of FIG. 41, wherein the rotor defines a tissue collection cavity.

Fig. 49 is a second perspective view of the rotor of fig. 44.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a manifold.

Fig. 51 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 50.

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 50 taken along section line 52-52.

FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view of the manifold of FIG. 50 taken along section line 53-53.

FIG. 54 is a rear perspective view of a cap panel of the manifold of FIG. 50.

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the manifold.

Fig. 56 is an exploded view of the manifold of fig. 55.

FIG. 57 is a rear perspective view of a cap panel of the manifold of FIG. 55.

FIG. 58 is a rear perspective view of the cap head of the manifold of FIG. 55.

FIG. 59 is a front view of the manifold of FIG. 55, schematically illustrating the manifold in a tissue collection position.

FIG. 60 is a front view of the manifold of FIG. 55, schematically illustrating the manifold in a bypass position.

FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the manifold of FIG. 55, schematically illustrating a flow path through the manifold in a tissue collection position.

Fig. 62 is a perspective view of a variation of the manifold of fig. 55.

FIG. 63 is a side view of a cap head of the manifold of FIG. 55, including orientation and/or positioning features.

Fig. 64 is a tray of the manifold of fig. 62, wherein the tray includes complementary orienting and/or positioning features.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a cap portion of the manifold.

Fig. 66 is a side view of the cap portion of fig. 65 with the tray removed.

Fig. 67 is a perspective view of a cap portion of the manifold.

Fig. 68 is a side view of the cap portion of fig. 66 with the tray removed.

FIG. 69 is a rear perspective view of a manifold including an access feature that will permanently break to provide access to a filter element within the manifold.

FIG. 70 is a rear perspective view of a manifold including an access feature that will permanently break to provide access to a filter element within the manifold.

FIG. 71 is a rear perspective view of a manifold including an access feature that will permanently break to provide access to a filter element within the manifold.

Fig. 72 is a rear perspective view of the body portion of fig. 69.

FIG. 73 is a rear perspective view of a filter element including a window that allows a tissue sample to be removed through the access feature.

Detailed Description

Aspiration of a tissue sample from a patient may be facilitated using a medical waste collection assembly 50 schematically represented in fig. 1. An exemplary medical waste collection assembly suitable for aspiration is Neptune manufactured by Stryker Corporation (Kara Mazu Mich.)And NeptuneWaste management system, in commonly owned U.S. patent nos. 7,621,898, 8,216,199, 8,740,866, 8,915,897, 9,579,428 and 9,782,524Each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In its broadest sense, the medical waste collection assembly 50 includes a vacuum pump adapted to be placed in fluid communication with the proximal end of the aspiration line 52. The distal end of aspiration line 52 is coupled to an instrument located near the surgical site. The desired tissue sample is excised, such as by a snare technique, and the excised tissue sample is drawn into the aspiration line 52 toward the medical waste collection assembly 50.

Aspirant of semi-solid and solid matter, including tissue samples, must be captured or properly filtered to avoid potential clogging of the medical waste collection assembly 50. Referring also to FIG. 2, the medical waste collection assembly 50 is coupled to the manifold 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 (hereinafter 100 and 1100). The medical waste collection assembly 50 includes a manifold receiver 54 adapted to removably engage the manifold 100-1100. The manifold receiver 54 may define a void 56, the void 56 being sized to receive a proximal portion of the manifold 100 and 1100. The medical waste collection assembly 50 further includes a suction inlet 58, the suction inlet 58 adapted to be in fluid communication with the outlet opening of the manifold 100 and 1100 when the manifold 100 and 1100 are engaged with the manifold receiver 54. Manifold receiver 54 may include a valve disc 60, valve disc 60 being rotatable to align apertures 62 with suction inlet 58 when the outlet openings engage and rotate bosses 64 defining apertures 62. Details of the interface between the manifold 100 and 1100 and the manifold receiver 54 are disclosed in commonly owned U.S. patent nos. 7,615,037, 8,518,002, 8,915,897, and 9,579,428, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

As shown in FIG. 1, the manifold 100-1100 is adapted to receive the suction line 52. With the manifold 100 and 1100 engaged with the manifold receiver 54, a suction path is established from the suction line 52 through the manifold 100 and 1100 to the medical waste collection assembly 50. Among other functions to be described, the manifold 100-1100 captures semi-solid and solid matter entrained in a flow aspirated from a surgical site.

Fig. 3-7 illustrate an embodiment of a manifold 100 for collecting tissue samples. The manifold 100 includes a housing 102 adapted to removably engage the manifold receiver 54. Housing 102 may include a body portion 104 and a cap portion 106. The cap portion 106 is coupled to the body portion 104 by a removable or permanent connection means, but it is contemplated that the body and cap portions 104, 106 may be formed as a one-piece, unitary structure. As best shown in fig. 6 and 7, the manifold 100 defines a manifold volume 108 and an outlet opening 110 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 108. The body portion 104 can include a proximal base 126 and at least one side 128 extending distally from the proximal base 126 to define a cavity 130 that includes a portion of the manifold volume 108. Fig. 3 shows the body portion 104 as being cylindrical and defining the cavity 130, but it is understood that other geometries are contemplated, including non-symmetrical shapes. As used herein, proximal (P) refers to a direction toward the rear of the manifold 100 and toward the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the medical waste collection assembly 50 is engaged with the manifold 100, while distal (D) refers to a direction toward the front of the manifold 100 and the surgical site (see fig. 4). The outlet opening 110 may be disposed within the proximal base 126. Alternatively, the outlet opening 110 may be positioned at any suitable location of the shell 102, including, but not limited to, the side 128 of the body portion 104 and the cap panel 140 of the cap portion 106 to be described. The housing 102 includes at least one inlet fitting 112a, 112b adapted to receive the suction line 52. The inlet fittings 112a, 112b define respective inlet apertures 114a, 114b in fluid communication with the manifold volume 108. The outlet opening 110 is adapted to be in fluid communication with the suction inlet 58 of the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the housing 102 is engaged with the manifold receiver 54, thereby providing a suction path from the inlet apertures 114a, 114b to the suction inlet 58.

Manifold 100 may include a drip valve 132 disposed within outlet opening 110 to prevent fluid from flowing out of outlet opening 110 when housing 102 is disconnected from manifold receiver 54, for example, after a surgical procedure. The drip valve 132 may include a pair of deflectable wings 134 defining a slit 136 therebetween. In a manner described in further detail in the previously incorporated U.S. patent nos. 7,615,037, 8,518,002, 8,915,897 and 9,579,428, the tab 64 (see fig. 2) of the manifold receiver 54 deflects the flap 134 and extends through the slit 136 of the drip valve 132 to provide fluid communication between the manifold volume 108 and the suction inlet 58 of the medical waste collection assembly 50.

Referring again to fig. 5, the manifold 100 may include at least one valve 133, the valve 133 configured to prevent backflow from the manifold volume 108. With further reference to fig. 5-7, a valve 133 may be coupled to the cap portion 106 and disposed within a cavity of the cap portion 106 that defines at least a portion of the manifold volume 108. In particular, an inner or proximal surface of the cap portion 106 may include a coupling 107 (see fig. 10), such as a proximally extending protrusion. The valve 133 includes a coupling 137 that is complementary to the coupling 107 of the cap portion 106. The coupler 137 may be a slot disposed within the central hub 138 of the valve 133 and sized to engage the protrusion in an interference configuration. Additionally or alternatively, a suitable joining process, such as gluing, mechanical fastening, or the like, may be used to couple the valve 133 with the cap portion 106.

The valve 133 may include a pair of baffles 135 coupled to a central hub 138 by flexible wings 139. The length of the flexible wings 139 is sufficient to space each of the pair of baffles 135 from the central hub 138 by a distance equal to the distance between the coupler 107 of the cap portion 106 and: (i) a delivery orifice 125 establishing communication between the accessory sleeve 113 and the manifold volume 108 (see fig. 6 and 7); (ii) a second inlet aperture 114 b. The baffle 135 is sized to cover the inlet aperture 114, wherein the baffle 135 is circular as shown in FIG. 5. The valve 133 may be formed of an elastic material, such as rubber or other polymer having suitable viscoelastic properties. The size and material of the valve 133 is configured to facilitate elastic deformation about an axis transverse to the length of the valve 133. In other words, the size and material of the valve 133 is configured to facilitate elastic deformation of the wings 139 to allow movement of the flapper 135 in the proximal-distal direction. Fig. 6 and 7 show the valve 133 in a natural or unstressed state. The deflection characteristics of the wings 139 can be adjusted based on the desired amount of movement of the baffle 135 at the desired vacuum level provided by the vacuum pump. Certain features of the valve 133 may be similar to those disclosed in U.S. patent No.7,715,037, entitled 11/10/2009, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

During assembly of the manifold 100, the valve 133 may be coupled to the shell 102, and more specifically to the cap portion 106. The complementary couplers 107, 137 are engaged and the valve 133 is positioned directly adjacent or abutting the inner or proximal surface of the cap portion 106. In particular, with the valve 133 in a natural or unstressed state, the flap 135 abuts an inner or proximal surface of the cap portion 106 and covers the delivery aperture 125 and the second inlet aperture 114 b. With the manifold 100 inserted into the manifold receiver 54 and the medical waste collection system 50 operated, a vacuum is drawn on or through the manifold 100 in fluid communication with the suction inlet 58. Without the caps 151a, 151b sealing the respective inlet apertures 114a, 114b from fluid communication with the surrounding environment, the vacuum drawn on or through the manifold 100 is sufficient to elastically deform the wings 139 to allow the wings 139 of the flapper 135 to flex in the proximal direction. Movement of the flapper 135 away from the proximal ends of one or both of the inlet and delivery apertures 114, 125 establishes a suction path from the inlet apertures 114a, 114b to the manifold volume 108 and thus to the suction inlet 58. Upon stopping on the manifold 100 or drawing a vacuum through the manifold 100, the valve 133 returns to a natural or unstressed state in which the wings 139 resiliently move the flap 135 into abutment with the inner or proximal surface of the cap portion 106 to cover and seal the proximal end of the inlet 114 and the delivery bore 125. Sealing of the proximal end of the inlet and the delivery bores 114, 125 prevents backflow from the manifold volume 108 back to the attachment sleeve 113 and the inlet bore 114b, respectively, thereby preventing possible waste outflow.

The manifold 100 may include a filter element 116 disposed in the housing 102 and in the suction path. The filter element 116 includes porous features or pores 118 adapted to trap or otherwise filter semi-solid and solid matter entrained in the flow drawn in along the suction path. In other words, the suction path is provided from the inlet apertures 114a, 114b through each of the manifold volume 108, the filter element 116 and the outlet opening 110 to the suction inlet 58. The filter element 116 may include a base wall 120 and at least one sidewall 121 extending distally from the base wall 120 to form a basket-like structure 119 defining a mouthpiece. Porous features may be defined in base wall 120, sidewalls 121, and/or rim 117 as will be described. To maintain the rotational orientation of filter element 116 relative to body portion 104, filter element 116 and body portion 104 may include several features, including ribs 115, adapted to radially align filter element 116 within body portion 104. Further, the filter element 116 may be disposed at a location separate from the manifold volume 108, but in fluid communication with the outlet opening 110 of the manifold 100. The shape and configuration of filter elements 116 suitable for certain embodiments of manifold 100 is disclosed in commonly owned international publication WO 2018/170233 filed on 3, 15, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Still further, the filter element 116 may be considered optional, and manifold designs that do not include a filter element are contemplated.

Filter element 116 may include a rim 117 coupled to a basket 119. Rim 117 may extend distally radially outward from basket 119. The outer diameter or dimension of rim portion 117 may be larger or larger than the outer diameter or dimension of basket portion 119. With further reference to fig. 6 and 7, the length of basket 119 may be such that basket 119 is disposed within body portion 104, and the length of rim 117 may be such that rim 117 is disposed within neck 105 of body portion 104. A step 109 extends radially inward from the inner surface of the neck 105. The diverging wall of filter element 116 defined at a portion of rim 117 may be positioned adjacent to or abutting step 109 of body portion 104. The resulting structure includes the basket 119 being secured within the manifold volume 108 by an interference engagement when the body portion 104 is coupled with the cap portion 106. In other words, during assembly of the manifold 100, the rim 117 of the filter element 116 may be positioned in abutment with the inner surface of the cap portion 106 and the body portion 104 advanced over the basket 119 of the filter element 116. The body portion 104 is coupled to the cap portion 106 in a manner to be described, and the step 109 of the body portion 104 engages a diverging wall defining a proximal side of the rim 117 to axially secure the filter basket 116 within the manifold volume 108. As previously described, ribs 115 that engage slots (not shown) in body portion 104 radially align filter element 116 within body portion 104.

In the broadest sense, filter element 116 comprises a structure configured to capture or collect semi-solid or solid waste entrained in liquid waste drawn through manifold 100 under the influence of a vacuum provided by medical waste collection system 50. Wherein the pores of the filter element 116 may be shaped as holes, orifices and/or slots. These holes, apertures, and/or slots may be defined in any one or more of base wall 120, side wall 121, and rim 117. In type and location, the pores are arranged in a manner that minimizes clogging of the filter element 116. For example, the slot defined in the sidewall 121 is positioned closer to the upper element of the filter element 116 than the lower element of the filter element 116. When semi-solid or solid waste is collected, it will accumulate at the bottom of basket 119 under the influence of gravity, and subsequent waste streams pass over the accumulation. After a sufficient amount of semi-solid or solid waste has accumulated, it may be desirable for the waste to encounter a slit having a smallest dimension approximately equal to the size of the aperture (to capture semi-solid or solid waste of the same size as the air openings) and a larger area of opening to allow a larger volume to flow through the slot. Furthermore, the vertical arrangement of the slots is transverse to the suction path and parallel to the force of gravity. Thus, as the semi-solid or solid waste further accumulates, at least a portion of the slots remain clear until substantially the entire basket 119 is consumed by the waste, thereby maximizing the useful life of the manifold 100.

The filter element 116 may include at least one overflow outlet (not shown) positioned on an upper side of the filter element 116. The overflow outlet is configured to maximize the operating cycle of the manifold 100. As previously described, when semi-solid or solid waste is collected, it will accumulate at the bottom of basket 119 under the influence of gravity. Due to the direction of the aspiration path (i.e., in the proximal direction), semi-solid or solid waste will accumulate on the base wall 120 of the basket 119. If a sufficient amount of semi-solid or solid waste is generated during the surgical procedure, the entire basket 119 may be consumed by the accumulated semi-solid or solid waste. In other words, most or all of the pores, apertures, and/or slits of the filter element 116 may be plugged by semi-solid or solid waste. The overflow port is sized and positioned to allow the suction path to pass through the overflow port and extend outside the basket 119. In other words, understanding the fluid dynamics of the path that the fluid takes is the least resistive, in the above case the suction path extends from the inlet apertures 114a, 114b, through the cap portion 106, through the overflow outlet, within the body portion 104 between the basket 119 and the inner surface of the body portion 104, to the outlet opening 110 to be described.

Referring now to fig. 5, the cap portion 106 includes a cap head 142 and a support frame 143. The support frame 143 may be integrally formed with the cap head 142. A support frame 143 is positioned distal to the cap head 142 and generally defines a front of the manifold 100. The cap portion 106 includes an upper barrier 103, a first inlet fitting 112a and a second inlet fitting 112 b. More specifically, the accessory sleeve 113 coupled to the support frame 143 comprises said first inlet joint 112a and the cap head 142 comprises said second inlet joint 112 b. A first inlet fitting 112a extends upwardly from distal barrier 103, with a first inlet aperture 114a extending through distal barrier 103. The second inlet fitting 112b extends distally from the cap head 142, while the second inlet aperture 114b (also referred to herein as a bypass opening) extends through the cap head 142.

The housing of the manifold 100 also defines an accessory opening 111 leading to an accessory sleeve 113. The accessory sleeve 113 may be at least partially defined by an upper stop 103, a lower stop 122, and opposing side stops 123 extending between the upper stop 103 and the lower stop 122. The accessory sleeve 113 may be further defined by an end stop 124 opposite the accessory opening 111. The accessory sleeve 113 is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 108 through the aperture 125 (also referred to herein as a delivery aperture) and an aperture 158 extending through the cap panel 140. More particularly, the aperture 125 is defined between a first end within at least one of the lower barrier 122 and the side barrier 123 and a second end opening into the manifold volume, such as the aperture 158.

The manifold 100 includes a tray 176 configured to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve 113. The tray 176 defines a tissue collection cavity 182 and a porous feature 186 within the tissue collection cavity 182. With the tray 176 positioned within the accessory sleeve 113, the porous feature 186 is positioned in the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample. The tray 176 also includes a sealing surface 155, the sealing surface 155 adapted to sealingly engage the accessory opening 111 when the tray 176 is within the accessory sleeve 113. In particular, the tray 176 can include a flange defining a sealing surface 155, wherein the sealing surface 155 is adapted to contact the perimeter of the accessory opening 111. Even more particularly, where the fitment opening 111 is collectively defined by upper, lower and opposing side barriers 103, 122, 123, the sealing surface 155 is adapted to contact an end of each of the upper, lower and opposing side barriers 103, 122, 123. With the tray 176 positioned within the accessory sleeve 113 and the sealing surface 155 covering the accessory opening 111, suction is maintained through the suction path during operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50.

Once it is desired to withdraw a collected tissue sample, tray 176 can be slidably removed from accessory sleeve 113 with the tissue sample disposed within tissue collection cavity 182. However, upon moving the sealing surface 155 out of sealing engagement with the attachment opening 111, a second suction path may be created according to fluid dynamic principles. The first suction path from the suction line through the accessory sleeve 113 and the manifold volume to the outlet opening may be reduced or eliminated, creating a second suction path from the accessory opening 111 through the accessory sleeve 113 and the manifold volume to the outlet opening. In other words, the aperture 125 is common to both the first and second suction paths, and depending on the fluid itself (e.g., air and fluid waste) and the relative resistance encountered by the fluid in the first and second suction paths, the second suction path may include a strong volumetric flow of fluid (typically air) through the accessory opening 111 and the accessory sleeve 113 when the tray 176 is slidably removed from the accessory sleeve 113. In known systems, the tissue sample may encounter a fluid volume flow and associated forces, and the tissue sample may be undesirably swept along the fluid flow and ejected from the tray. In other instances, it may be desirable to "deflate" or reduce suction through the first suction path, perhaps temporarily, without removing the manifold from and/or ceasing operation of the medical waste collection assembly. Known systems do not adequately address this need.

Advantageously, the manifold 100 positions the second aspiration path in a manner that minimizes the possibility of accidental loss of the tissue sample. In addition, the manifold 100 advantageously provides a second suction path with sufficient volumetric flow such that the first suction path may be temporarily limited or eliminated.

Referring now to fig. 6 and 7, the housing of the manifold 100 includes a locating feature 145 disposed within the accessory sleeve 113. In the broadest sense, the locating feature 145 is configured to properly locate the tray 176 such that a gap (G) is defined between a base portion 184 (also referred to herein as a screening surface) of the tray 176 and at least a portion of the lower stop 122 that at least partially defines the accessory sleeve 113. As will be further explained, the gap (G) is sized such that the second aspiration path (SSP) is hydrodynamically directed through the gap (G) while not encountering the tissue collection cavity 182 of the tray 176 to minimize the potential for tissue sample loss. The illustrated locating features 145 are platforms 147 that define the slot 127 therebetween. It should be appreciated that the slot 127 defines at least a portion of the accessory sleeve 113 and extends to the accessory opening 111.

Fig. 8 and 9 show the tray 176 including a base portion 184. As shown, the base portion 184 may be slightly arcuate, but may alternatively be planar or have any suitable profile. The tray 176 also includes side portions 185 (also referred to herein as sides) coupled to the base portion 184. The base and side portions 184, 185 may extend from the sealing surface 155 and be arranged to define a tissue collection cavity 182. For convention, the tissue collection cavity 182 is considered to be open away from the base portion 184 in a direction parallel to the side portions 185. A porous feature 186 is defined within the base portion 184.

The tray 176 includes one or more control surfaces 188a, 188b adapted to receive input from a user. Fig. 8 and 9 show two control surfaces 188a, 188b extending from the flange in a direction opposite the sealing surface 155. The control surfaces 188a, 188b may be formed as grips that are pinched between the fingers of the user. More specifically, the grip portion may include a first portion 188a and a second portion 188b that are collectively arranged to be grasped by a user to move the first portion 188a toward the second portion 188b for functions to be described.

As shown in fig. 5, with the tray 176 removably coupled with the housing, (i) the sealing member 155 seals the accessory opening 111, (ii) the tissue collection cavity 182 is located within the accessory sleeve 113 and is open toward the inlet aperture 112a, and (iii) the base portion 184 and/or the side portion 185 engages the locating feature 145 within the accessory sleeve 113 to provide the aforementioned gap (G) between the base portion 184 and the lower stop 122 of the tray 176. More specifically, the base portion 184 of the tray 176 may be arranged to rest on or otherwise be supported by the platform 147 such that a gap (G) is defined between the underside of the base portion 184 of the tray 176 and the upper surface of the slot 127. The gap (G) can be considered to be below the tray 176 (i.e., opposite the tissue collection cavity 182 in the foregoing convention). With the tray 176 positioned within the accessory sleeve 113, the gap (G) communicates with the bore 125 extending to the manifold volume 108. It should also be noted that the upper portion of the tray 176 is positioned adjacent to the upper stopper 103, and the distance between the two is small.

At least a portion of the sealing surface 155 may be formed of a resiliently flexible material. In particular, a lower portion of the sealing surface 155 (i.e., where the sealing surface 155 contacts the end of the lower barrier 122 that at least partially defines the attachment opening 111) can be formed of a resiliently flexible material. The resiliently flexible material is rigidly coupled to the control surface 188, such as by gusset 129. Referring also to fig. 9, gusset 129 is a triangular structure that rigidly couples the flange defining sealing surface 155 with second portion 188b of the grip defining control surface 188.

In operation, if a user desires to reduce or eliminate the first suction path through the first inlet aperture 114a, the accessory sleeve 113, and the aperture 125, the user provides an input to the control surface 188. In particular, a user may pinch first and second portions 188a, 188b of the grip portion that define the control surface 188. With particular reference to fig. 6 and 7, the first portion 188a is moved or pivoted (P) toward the second portion 188b to move the manifold 100 from the sealed configuration to the deflated configuration. Due to the resiliently flexible material of the flange defining the sealing surface 155 and the rigid connection from the gusset 129, at least a portion of the sealing surface 155 moves away from a portion of the attachment opening 111 near the lower barrier 122. The slot 127 extending to the attachment opening 111 is exposed to the atmosphere and provides a Second Suction Path (SSP). As shown in fig. 7, the Second Suction Path (SSP) is positioned from the accessory opening 111, through the gap (G) between the base portion 184 of the tray 176 and the lower baffle 122 of the housing defining the accessory sleeve 113, to the aperture 125. Due to the small resistance of the fluid (e.g., air) entering the Second Suction Path (SSP) relative to the end of the suction line disposed upstream of the surgical site (and the density of waste in the suction line relative to air), fluid dynamics dictate that the Second Suction Path (SSP) becomes the primary suction path in the deflation configuration, and negligible suction can be maintained through the suction line 52. If the user wishes to quickly reestablish the First Suction Path (FSP) as the primary suction path, the user simply releases the input provided to the control surface 188. The resilient nature of the sealing surface 155 and the Second Suction Path (SSP) adjacent to the sealing surface 155 cause the sealing surface 155 to re-engage the attachment opening 111 and the manifold 100 resumes the sealing configuration. Moving the manifold 100 between the sealed configuration and the deflated configuration may be performed as many times as desired without causing unnecessary difficulty and without stopping operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50.

Also, as described above, the Second Suction Path (SSP) is located below the tray 176 (i.e., opposite the tissue collection cavity 182 in the convention described above). Thus, if the user wishes to withdraw a tissue sample collected in the tissue collection cavity 182, the user maintains input to the control surface 188 while withdrawing the tray 176 from the accessory hub 113. Since the gap (G) is relatively larger than any distance between the upper portions of the trays 176 positioned adjacent to the upper stoppers 103, almost the entire Second Suction Path (SSP) is maintained below the trays 176 when the trays 176 are removed. It should be appreciated that any fluid in the second aspiration path (SSP) that flows over the tray 176 to be aspirated into the tissue collection chamber 182 is negligible. Thus, the user can remove the tray 176 with confidence without compromising critical aspects of the surgical procedure by accidentally losing the collected tissue sample.

Returning to fig. 8 and 9, the tray 176 can include legs 131 that extend from the base portion 184, and more particularly, from the base portion 184 in a direction opposite the tissue collection cavity 182. When viewed from a bottom plan view (see fig. 9), the legs 131 may be generally U-shaped and confine the porous feature 186 within the base portion 184. Alternatively, for example, the legs 131 may be a series of discrete protrusions extending from the base portion 184 near the side portions 185. It should be appreciated that the generally U-shaped leg 131 also defines the aperture 125 that communicates with the manifold volume 108 when the tray 176 is fully positioned within the accessory sleeve 113. In other words, each side portion of the leg 131 can be supported on one of the platforms 147 and the distal portion of the leg 131 can be supported on the lower stop 122 near the end stop 124 opposite the accessory opening 111. The relatively minimal clearance between the legs 131 and the lower barrier 122, particularly at the boundaries of the apertures 125, substantially isolates the Second Suction Path (SSP) from the First Suction Path (FSP) when the manifold 100 is in the deflated configuration (except through the porous features 186). When the manifold 100 is in the bleed configuration, this arrangement may further increase the difference in resistance between the Second Suction Path (SSP) and the First Suction Path (FSP) such that the Second Suction Path (SSP) becomes the primary suction path in the bleed configuration and the suction maintained by the suction line 52 is negligible.

Legs 131 are also configured to further position base portion 184 of tray 176 within accessory sleeve 113. More specifically, as mentioned, the feet 131 may be supported on or positioned adjacent the platform 147 and may provide additional clearance between the base portion 184 and the lower stop 122 defining the gap (G). Fig. 7 shows the distal portions of the legs 131 on the lower stop 122 such that the gap (G) extends above the level of the platform 147 to the base portion 184 of the tray 176. The gap (G) (i.e., the distance from the base portion 184 to the lower barrier 122 defining the slot 127) increases the effectiveness of the air bleed function and further reduces the likelihood of fluid flow of the Second Suction Path (SSP) above the tray 176 dislodging or ejecting the collected tissue sample.

With continued reference to fig. 8 and 9, the tray 176 can include an orientation feature 187 configured to engage a complementary orientation feature 189 (shown in fig. 4) of the accessory sleeve 113 to position the tray 176 within the accessory sleeve 113 in a single relative orientation with respect to the upper barrier 103, particularly with the tissue collection cavity 182 open to the upper barrier 103. The orientation feature 189 of the accessory sleeve 113 can be considered a groove defined within each of the opposing side stops 123. In other words, each of the side barriers 123 flares outward near the upper barrier 103 to define the groove. The orientation feature 187 of the tray 176 can be considered a rail extending from the side portion 185, particularly a rail extending near an upper portion of the tray 176. The complementary orientation features 187, 189 can be configured to be movably engaged by sliding the rails within the grooves. It should be appreciated that the orientation feature 187 of the tray 176 may also serve as a positioning feature to define the vertical position of the base portion 184 relative to the lower stop 122 and thus at least partially affect the size of the gap (G).

In certain embodiments, the cap portion 106 and the body portion 104 are removably coupled to one another. Referring to fig. 3-5, the cap portion 106 includes at least one key 146 or head coupler configured for removable coupling with at least one keyway 148 or torso coupler of the body portion 104. The key 146 may be two keys 146 arranged diametrically opposite and extending proximally from the cap portion 106. The keyways 148 may be two keyways 148 diametrically opposed and defined between at least one lip 149 extending radially outward from the neck 105 of the body portion 104. In another embodiment, the keys 146 and keyways 148 may be three keys 146 and three keyways 148, respectively, and spaced approximately 120 degrees apart from each other. The keyway 148 may include a male portion 152 and a locking portion 153 in communication with the male portion 152. As best shown in fig. 11, the insertion portion 152 may be wider than the locking portion 153. In other words, the portion of the lip 149 defining the locking portion 153 may be thinner than the portion of the lip 149 defining the insertion portion 152. The key 146 may include a stem 162 and a hook 164 extending from the stem 162. The hook 164 may be thicker than the stem 162. The width of the insertion portion 152 is greater than or equal to the thickness of the hook 164 and greater than or equal to the thickness of the handle 162, and the width of the locking portion 153 is less than the thickness of the hook 164 and greater than or equal to the thickness of the handle 162. Further, the length of the shank 162 may be at least equal to the length of the lip 149. More specifically, the length of the shank 162 may be greater than or equal to the length of the portion of the lip 149 defining the insertion portion 152, and the length of the shank 162 may be approximately equal to the length of the portion of the lip 149 defining the locking portion 153. Thus, during assembly of the manifold 100 or when it is desired to couple the cap portion 106 and the body portion 104, the cap portion 106 is oriented relative to the body portion 104 such that the hooks 164 are rotationally aligned with the insert portion 152. The cap portion 106 is moved toward the body portion 104 such that the hook 164 extends through the insert portion 152 to pass through the lip 149 and the stem 162 is positioned within the insert portion 152. Cap portion 106 is rotated relative to body portion 104, such as clockwise in the view of fig. 11, to move key 146 within keyway 148. The stem 162 moves from within the insertion portion 152 into the locking portion 153 while the hook 164 is positioned in an interference arrangement with the portion of the lip 166 defining the locking portion 153. This interference prevents axial movement of the cap portion 106 relative to the body portion 104, and the cap portion 106 may be considered to be fixed to the body portion 104 to form the shell 102 of the manifold 100.

The removable coupling between the cap portion 106 and the body portion 104 may provide access to a manifold volume 108, in which manifold volume 108 a filter element 116 is disposed. Among other advantages, access to the filter element 116 may allow a user to retrieve waste collected within the filter element 116, particularly polyps or tissue samples, for further examination and processing during certain surgical procedures. Commonly owned international publication WO 2013/090579, published on day 6 and 20 of 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, discloses a manifold including a tissue trap for collecting polyps or tissue samples. In certain embodiments, the manifold 100, including the cap portion 106, may include other features for facilitating tissue sample collection.

When it is desired to disengage the cap portion 106 from the body portion 104, the above method steps are reversed. Cap portion 106 is rotated, counterclockwise in the view of fig. 11, relative to body portion 104 to move key 146 in keyway 148. The shank 162 moves from within the locking portion 153 into the insertion portion 152 while the hook 164 moves out of interference with the portion of the lip 149 defining the locking portion 153. The cap portion 106 is moved away from the body portion 104 such that the hook 164 passes the lip 149 and the key 146 can be considered disengaged from the keyway 148. The cavity 130 of the cap portion 106 may be accessible and/or the manifold volume 108 of the body portion 104 may be accessed, as shown in fig. 5.

In certain embodiments, the cap portion 106 and the body portion 104 are rigidly connected by a suitable connection process, such as spin welding, solvent bonding, gluing, mechanical fastening, or the like. As previously described, the housing 102 may be a unitary or monolithic structure such that there is no discrete head and torso. Suitable manufacturing processes for forming the housing 102 may include injection molding, three-dimensional printing, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, polymer casting, vacuum forming, blow molding, and the like. Suitable materials for forming the housing 102 may include polymers, composites, metals, ceramics, and combinations thereof. These materials include corrosion protection properties sufficient to avoid degradation when exposed to waste, and mechanical properties sufficient to maintain integrity at the vacuum level provided by the medical waste collection system. Polymers of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETE), polystyrene, polycarbonate, and poly (methyl methacrylate) may be particularly well suited for manifold 100 in low cost and disposable embodiments.

Referring now to fig. 12-14, there is shown another manifold 200 that is similar in at least some respects to the previously described manifold (some similar components are indicated by the same number plus one hundred (100)). The manifold 200 includes a housing 202 adapted to removably engage the manifold receiver 54. Shell 202 includes a body portion 204 and a cap portion 206 coupled to body portion 204. As best shown in fig. 14, the housing 202 defines a manifold volume 208 and an outlet opening 210 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 208. The body portion 204 may include a proximal base 226 and a side 228 extending distally from the proximal base 226 to define a cavity 230 that includes a portion of the manifold volume 208. The outlet opening 210 may be positioned within the proximal base 226. Cap portion 206 includes an inlet fitting 212, inlet fitting 212 defining an inlet aperture 214 in fluid communication with manifold volume 208. The drip valve 232 may be disposed within the outlet opening 210 in the manner previously described.

Fig. 15-17 show that the cap portion 206 includes a cap panel 240 and a cap head 242. The cap head 242 may be coupled with the body portion 204. The cap head 242 may include an annular sloped surface that terminates at an annular platform 246. The annular inclined surface 244 is shaped to impart resilient deflection to a flange 248 of the body portion 204 when the body and cap portions 204, 206 are assembled. Flange 248 is guided into cap head 242 until hook feature 250 moves past annular platform 246 and resiliently deflects outwardly into interference engagement with annular platform 246. In such a configuration, the body and cap portions 204, 206 are generally prevented from disengaging. In addition, cap head 242 includes one or more orientation features 252, such as one or more pairs of ribs extending radially inward from the inner annular surface. These ribs receive the flange 248 therebetween to prevent rotation of the cap head 242 relative to the body portion 204. The ribs may also receive protrusions 227 of the filter element 216 to prevent rotation of the filter element 216 relative to the cap portion 206.

The cap head 242 includes at least one sidewall 254 extending distally and terminating in a distal face 256. An aperture 258 extends through the distal face 256 of the cap head 242. Cap head 242 includes a stem 260 extending distally from distal face 256, stem 260 defining a lumen 262 and a coupling feature 264. The coupling features 264 are a pair of slots arranged to provide a bayonet mount with complementary coupling features 266 of the cap panel 240. The complementary coupling features 266 of the cap panel 240 are posts circumferentially arranged to be received within the slots. The complementary coupling feature 266 extends radially from a tubular portion 268 adapted to be received within the cavity 242 of the spindle 260. The cap panel 240 may be disc-shaped, including a proximal face 270 and a distal face 272 opposite the proximal face 270. The tubular portion 268 extends proximally from the proximal face 270. To facilitate disengagement of cap panel 240, which is removably coupled with cap head 242, cap panel 240 can include a grip portion 274 adapted to be manipulated (e.g., pinched) by a user.

The cap panel 240 of the cap portion 206 includes the inlet fitting 212. As shown in fig. 15, the inlet fitting 212 extends distally from the distal face 272 of the cap panel 240, and the inlet aperture 214 extends through the cap panel 240. In this manner, the inlet fitting 212 is rotatably fixed relative to the body portion 204 when the manifold 200 is assembled.

During operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50 with the manifold 200, a tissue sample may be collected using the porous feature 218 of the filter element 216. However, removing the tissue sample from the filter element 216 can be cumbersome. Thus, the present manifold advantageously provides for efficient retrieval of tissue samples from the manifold 200, and also provides for efficient collection of a variety of tissue samples and selective operation of the system without collection of tissue samples (i.e., without replacement of components). Referring again to fig. 12 and 13, the manifold 200 includes a tray 276 rotatably coupled to the housing 202. In particular and with reference to fig. 19, the tray 276 defines a central lumen 280 sized to receive the spindle 260 of the cap head 242. With the tray 276 rotatably disposed about the spindle 260, the tray 276 is positioned between the cap panel 240 and the cap head 242, particularly between the proximal face 270 of the cap panel 240 and the distal face 256 of the cap head 242. It should be understood that the tray 276 may be unitary or constructed of multiple components to form a tray assembly. The tray 276 may be movably disposed within the housing 202 in other ways than rotatably.

The tray 276 defines a plurality of tissue collection cavities 282. Each tissue collection cavity 282 may extend at least partially through the tray 276. The tray 276 further defines a porous feature 286 within each tissue collection cavity 282. Four tissue collection cavities 282 are shown, but it is contemplated that the tray 276 can include one, two, three, five, or six or more tissue collection cavities 282. The tissue collection lumens 282 may be equiangularly spaced about an axis a extending coaxially through the tray 276. Alternative forms of the trays 276 may include unequal spacing, or a combination of equal and unequal spacing. Although the tissue collection chamber 282 is shown as being integral with the tray 276, the tissue collection chamber 282 may be configured as a modular insert for the tray 276. The tray 276 includes a control surface 288 adapted to receive input from a user. Fig. 19 illustrates a control surface 288 generally defined by an outer annular surface 290 opposite the central lumen 280 to provide the tray 276 with a generally cylindrical shape. Input to the control surface 288 rotates the tray 276 about axis a to selectively provide fluid communication of one of the tissue collection cavities 282 with the inlet aperture 214 such that the porous feature 286 is in the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample during operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50.

The distal face 256 of the cap head 242 may define the previously mentioned aperture 258. The cap face 240 is rotatably fixed relative to the cap head 242 with the inlet aperture 214 aligned with the aperture 258. The tray 276 is axially positioned between the inlet aperture 214 and the aperture 258. If the user wishes to collect a tissue sample using one of the tissue collection cavities 282, the user provides an input to the control surface 288 to move (i.e., rotate) the tray 276 about axis A to align one of the tissue collection cavities 282 with the inlet aperture 214 (and the aperture 258). The tissue collection chamber 282 is located in the aspiration path, and a tissue sample aspirated through the aspiration path encounters a porous feature 286 within the tissue collection chamber 282. If another tissue sample is desired, the user may simply provide another input to the control surface 288 to rotate the tray 276 about axis A to align another tissue collection cavity 282 with the inlet aperture 214. The method can be repeated until the number of tissue collection cavities 282 is reached.

For a variety of reasons, a user may prefer to wait to a particular point in the surgical procedure before manipulating the manifold 200 to collect a tissue sample, but for other reasons (e.g., visualization) it may also be desirable to be able to maintain suction at the surgical site. Further, once a tissue sample is collected, the user may prefer to continue suctioning the surgical site without first retrieving the tissue sample from the manifold 200. However, directing the flow onto the previously collected tissue sample may degrade the tissue sample itself, however long. The manifold 200 advantageously accommodates the above considerations. Referring again to FIG. 19, the tray 276 also defines at least one bypass channel 292 separate from the tissue collection cavity 282. Each bypass passage 292 may be shaped to extend axially through the inner bore of the tray 276. The illustrated embodiment shows four bypass passages 292, but it is contemplated that the tray 276 may define one, two, three, five, or six or more bypass passages 292. The tissue collection cavities 282 and the bypass channels 292 can be arranged in an alternating manner and equally angularly spaced about the axis a. Alternative forms of the tray 276 can include grouping the tissue collection lumens 282 and/or the bypass channels 292, as well as unequal spacing or a combination of equal and unequal spacing. It is also contemplated that the tray 276 may be formed to define only the tissue collection chamber 282, with the bypass passage 292 being defined between an outer surface of the tray 276 and an inner surface of the housing 202. For example, the tray 276 can be triangular shaped to define the tissue collection cavity 282. The inner surface of the housing 202 circumscribes the triangle, and the area between the triangular tray 276 and the inner surface of the housing 302 constitutes the bypass passage 292.

Tray 276 is adapted to rotate about axis a to selectively align bypass passage 292 with inlet aperture 214 and aperture 258 to allow fluid to flow through manifold 200 during operation of medical waste collection assembly 50 but not to collect a tissue sample. In particular, the user provides an input to the control surface 288 to rotate the tray 276 about the axis a to align one of the bypass passages 292 with the inlet aperture 214 and the aperture 258. With the bypass channel 292 in the aspiration path, the tissue collection chamber is not in the aspiration path and thus the flow does not encounter the porous feature 286. In other words, when the bypass channel 292 is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture 214, the tissue collection chamber 282 is considered to be not in fluid communication with the inlet aperture 214. It should be appreciated that whether or not a tray 276 is used to collect the tissue sample, the flow is filtered by the filter element 216 of the manifold 200.

The tray 276 of the manifold 200 can include an alignment feature 294 adapted to provide a visual indication to a user as to the angular position of the tissue collection chamber 282. Fig. 19 and 20 show the alignment features 294 as projections extending radially from the outer annular surface 290 of the tray 276. Alignment feature 294 is shown to be coplanar with a plane extending through axis a and bisecting each tissue collection cavity 282. The alignment feature 294 may also advantageously serve to improve the manipulation of the control surface 288 when providing input to the control surface 288. The user provides input to the control surface 288 (and/or the alignment features 294) until one of the alignment features 294 is substantially aligned with the radial center of the inlet bore 214. The grip 274 may bisect the distal face 272 of the cap panel 240 such that a pair of opposing alignment features 294 are coplanar with the grip 274 when the tissue collection lumen 282 is aligned with the inlet aperture 214. This increased alignment may provide further visual confirmation to the user. It is contemplated that additional or alternative markings may be provided at appropriate locations on the manifold 200 to facilitate accurate orientation of the tray 276.

The manifold 200 may include one or more lenses 296 positioned to provide magnification within the one or more tissue collection cavities 282. Referring to fig. 18, a lens 296 is disposed on the cap panel 240 of the cap portion 206. A lens 296 is positioned adjacent to the inlet fitting 212 to provide visualization within the tissue collection chamber 282 in fluid communication with the inlet aperture 214. In another embodiment (see fig. 20), the lens 296 is disposed on the tray 276. Because the size of tissue samples is typically on the order of a few millimeters, and the lens 296 provides magnification at one or more of the tissue collection cavities 282, a user can more efficiently and effectively determine whether a satisfactory tissue sample has been collected in one of the tissue collection cavities 282. It is contemplated that illumination may be provided to illuminate the one or more tissue collection cavities 282. A light source (not shown) may be suitably positioned on the manifold receiver 54 and/or the manifold 200 to direct light into the tissue collection cavity 282.

As mentioned, the bypass channel 292 allows the user to continue suctioning the surgical site without first retrieving the tissue sample from the manifold 200 and without compromising the quality of the initially collected tissue sample. Thus, the manifold 200 may remain engaged with the medical waste collection assembly 50 until the end of the surgical procedure. Thereafter, the manifold 200 facilitates efficient retrieval of tissue samples. The cap portion 206 is removably coupled to the tray 276 to provide access to the tissue collection chamber 282. The user may support the manifold 200 with one hand and engage the grip 274 with the other hand. The user manipulates the grip 274 to disengage the complementary coupling features 266, 267 (e.g., bayonet mount) between the cap panel 240 and the cap head 242. The cap panel 240 is separated from the cap head 242, thereby exposing the tissue collection chamber 282. Further, tray 276 may be slidingly removed from spindle 260 of cap head 242 to require the user to only manage tray 276 during retrieval of the tissue sample. Further, where the tray 276 is separable from the rest of the manifold 200, the tray 276 may allow the tissue sample to be further processed prior to retrieval (e.g., placing the tray 276 with the tissue sample within a formalin container).

Fig. 20-22 show an alternative form of tray 277, 278, 279 for use with manifold 200. In many respects, the trays 277, 278, 279 are identical to the tray 276 previously described, with like numerals indicating like parts. Fig. 20 shows lenses 296 disposed on the control surface 288 and circumferentially disposed about the control surface 288. Each lens 296 is angularly aligned with one of the tissue collection cavities 282. It should be noted that in fig. 21, the alignment feature 294 is angularly aligned with the bypass channel 292, rather than with the tissue collection cavity 282, to provide suitable space for the lens 296 on the outer annular surface 290. Fig. 21 shows an outer annular surface 290 comprising a different profile to improve user maneuverability of the control surface 288. In particular, the outer annular surface 290 includes a plurality of valleys separating a plurality of peaks corresponding to the angular positions of the tissue collection cavity 282 and the bypass passage 292. The alignment features 294 are disposed on every other peak and correspond to the angular position of the tissue collection cavity 282. It should be noted that the alignment features 294 are not as pronounced as previously described. The tray 278 of fig. 22 particularly shows an alternative geometry for the tissue collection cavity 282 and bypass passage 292. The tissue collection chamber 282 and bypass channel 292 of fig. 22 are defined by a sector of a generally fan-shape. In addition, the tray 278 includes a channel 295 that extends radially from the central lumen 280 to the outer annular surface 290. Channel 295 includes a width defined between opposite sides that is approximately equal to or greater than the diameter of mandrel 260 of cap portion 206. It is contemplated that the width of channel 295 may be slightly less than the diameter of mandrel 260 in order to provide a surmountable interference fit between tray 278 and a portion of central lumen 280. The channel 295 allows the tray 278 to be disengaged from the rest of the manifold 200 without disengaging the cap face plate 240 from the cap head 242.

Referring now to fig. 23-25, another manifold 300 is shown that is similar in at least some respects to the previously described manifolds (and certain similar components are indicated by the same number plus one hundred (100)). Manifold 300 includes a housing 302 adapted to removably engage manifold receiver 54. Shell 302 includes a body portion 304 and a cap portion 306 coupled to body portion 304. As best shown in fig. 25, the housing 302 defines a manifold volume 308, and an outlet opening 310 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 308. Body portion 304 may include a proximal base 326 and a side 328 extending distally from proximal base 326 to define a cavity 230 that includes a portion of manifold volume 308. Outlet opening 310 may be positioned within proximal base 326. The cap portion 306 includes an inlet fitting 312, the inlet fitting 312 defining an inlet aperture 314 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 308. A drip valve (not shown) may be disposed within the outlet opening 310 in the manner previously described.

Cap portion 306 may be removably coupled to body portion 304. Referring to fig. 23 and 24, cap portion 306 includes a flange 307 positioned circumferentially near the rim of cap panel 340. Each flange 307 includes a beveled surface 309 at a proximal end of the flange 307. The inclined surface 309 of the flange 307 is shaped to impart resilient deflection to the flange 307 when the body and cap portions 304, 306 are assembled. Flange 307 is guided onto sidewall 328 of body portion 304 until hooked feature 350 moves past annular plateau 346 of body portion 304 and resiliently deflects inwardly into interference engagement with annular plateau 346. In addition, body portion 304 includes one or more orientation features 352, such as one or more surfaces extending radially from sidewall 328, to engage flange 307 and prevent cap portion 306 from rotating relative to body portion 304. In other words, the cap portion 306 is rotatably fixed relative to the body portion 304.

The manifold 300 may include a filter element 316 disposed within the housing 302 and in the suction path. The filter element 316 defines a porous feature 318 adapted to capture semi-solid and solid matter entrained within the flow drawn along the suction path. The filter element 316 is shown as a fan shape with an outer annular rim 317 opposite an inner annular rim 319 defining an inner cavity 321. As shown in fig. 24 and 25, the tray 376 includes a shaft 377 extending proximally from a proximal side of the tray 376. The interior cavity 321 of the filter element 316 is sized to receive the shaft 377 of the tray 376. In addition, each of the tray 376 and the filter element 316 includes complementary orientation features 379 adapted to prevent rotation of the filter element 316 relative to the tray 376. In other words, as the tray 376 rotates about axis a in a manner to be described, the filter element 316 rotates accordingly. Orientation feature 379 may include a key disposed on shaft 377 and a corresponding key hole (not shown) suitably disposed on filter element 316.

The manifold 300 includes a tray 376 rotatably coupled to the housing 302. The tray 376 is positioned adjacent the cap panel 340 of the cap portion 306. Referring also to fig. 26, the tray 376 defines a tissue collection cavity 382. Each tissue collection cavity 382 may be formed as a sector and define a porous feature 386 within each tissue collection cavity 382. The scallops may be generally pie-shaped. Five of the tissue collection lumens 382 are also shown in fig. 26, but it is contemplated that the tray 376 can include one, two, three, four, or six or more tissue collection lumens 382. Further, the tissue collection lumens 382 may be equally sized, but alternatives may include unequal sizing, or a combination of equal and unequal sizing.

The manifold 300 includes a control surface 388 adapted to receive input from a user. Fig. 23-25 illustrate the control surface 388 defined on a knob 389 located distally of the cap portion 306. In particular, cap panel 340 of cap portion 306 includes opening 305, and control surface 388 is arranged to be manipulated through opening 305. Depending on the location of the tray 376, the body portion 304 may alternatively include such an opening. The knob 389 is coupled to the tray 376 through a complementary orientation feature 381. Fig. 24 shows that the complementary orientation feature 381 includes a keyway defined within the tray 376 near the central lumen 380, and fig. 25 shows that the complementary orientation feature includes a key extending from a proximal region of the knob 389. The complementary orientation feature 381 is adapted to maintain relative rotation between the control surface 388 and the tray 376 such that when the knob 389 is rotated about axis a, the tray 376 rotates accordingly.

In operation, if a user desires to collect a tissue sample in one of the tissue collection chambers 382, the user provides an input to the control surface 388 to rotate the knob 389 and the tray 376 about the axis a to align the one of the tissue collection chambers 382 with the inlet aperture 314. The aligned tissue collection cavity 382 is in the suction path, and a tissue sample suctioned through the suction path encounters a porous feature 386 within the tissue collection cavity 382. If another tissue sample is desired, the user may simply provide another input to the control surface 388 to rotate the knob 389 and the tray 376 about axis A to align another tissue collection lumen 382 with the inlet aperture 314. The method can be repeated until the number of tissue collection chambers 382.

For reasons expressed previously, the tray 376 defines a bypass channel 392 that is separate from the tissue collection cavity 382. As shown in fig. 26, bypass channel 392 allows fluid to flow through manifold 300 during operation of medical waste collection assembly 50, but does not collect a tissue sample. Tray 376 is adapted to rotate about axis a to selectively align bypass channel 392 with inlet aperture 314. In particular, a user provides an input to the control surface 388 to rotate the knob 389 and the tray 376 about axis a to align the bypass channel 392 with the inlet aperture 314. As described above, when the bypass channel 392 is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture 314, the tissue collection chamber 382 may be considered to be not in fluid communication with the inlet aperture 314. The manifold 300 may include the previously described lens(s) (not shown) and/or illumination to provide magnification and improved visibility within the one or more tissue collection chambers 382.

Manifold 300 facilitates efficient retrieval of tissue samples from manifold 300. The manifold 300 is most typically disconnected from the medical waste collection assembly 50 after completion of the relevant aspects of the surgical procedure. The user supports the body portion 304 with one hand and overcomes the interference engagement between the hook feature 350 at the proximal end of the flange 307 of the cap portion 306 and the annular platform 346 of the body portion 304. Cap portion 306 is disengaged from body portion 304, thereby exposing the tissue sample collected in tissue-receiving cavity 382 of tray 376.

Referring now to fig. 27 and 28, there is shown another manifold 400 that is similar in at least some respects to the previously described manifold (and certain similar components are indicated by the same number, plus one hundred (100)), with only certain features being explicitly described for the sake of brevity. The manifold 400 includes a cap portion 406 rotatably coupled to the body portion 404, and the tray 476 is rotatably fixed relative to the body portion 404. Fig. 28 shows the shaft 477 extending proximally from the tray 476 and defining an orientation feature 479 adapted to engage a complementary orientation feature (not shown) of the body portion 404. Engagement of the complementary orientation features 479 prevents rotation of the tray 476 relative to the body portion 404.

The cap portion 406 includes a flange 407 positioned circumferentially adjacent the rim of the cap panel 440. Each flange 407 includes an inclined surface 409 shaped to impart resilient deflection to the flange 407 when the body and cap portions 404, 406 are assembled. The flange 407 is guided onto the sidewall 408 of the body portion 404 until the hooked feature 450 moves past the annular platform 446 of the body portion 404 and resiliently deflects inwardly into interference engagement with the annular platform 446. Body portion 404 may not include orientation features such that once body and cap portions 404, 406 are coupled in the manner described above, cap portion 406 may rotate relative to body portion 404. In particular, the hooked feature 450 may move along the annular platform 446 while maintaining the axial position of the cap portion 406 relative to the body portion 404.

Cap portion 406 includes inlet fitting 412, and thus rotation of cap portion 404 causes corresponding rotation of inlet aperture 414 of inlet fitting 412, and in particular relative to tray 476, which is rotatably fixed relative to body portion 404. The tray 476 defines a tissue collection cavity 482, a porous feature 486 within the tissue collection cavity 482, and a bypass channel 492 can be separate from the tissue collection cavity 482. In operation, if a user wishes to collect a tissue sample in one of the tissue collection cavities 482, the user provides input to the control surface 488 to rotate the cap portion 406 and the inlet fitting 412 about axis a to align one of the inlet aperture 414 and the tissue collection cavity 482. The aligned tissue collection cavity 482 is in the suction path and a tissue sample drawn through the suction path encounters the porous feature 486. If another tissue sample is desired, the user may simply provide another input to the control surface 488, rotating the cap portion 406 and the inlet fitting 412 about axis A, aligning the inlet aperture 414 with another one of the tissue collection cavities 482. The method may be repeated until the number of tissue collection cavities 482. Likewise, cap portion 406 may be rotated about axis a to selectively align inlet aperture 414 with bypass channel 492 to allow fluid to flow through manifold 400 during operation of medical waste collection assembly 50, but not to collect a tissue sample. The manifold 400 may include lens(s) (not shown) and/or illumination as previously described to provide magnification and visualization in the one or more tissue collection lumens 482.

Referring now to fig. 29-31, another manifold 500 is shown that is similar at least in some respects to the previously described manifold (and certain similar components are indicated by the same numbers, plus one hundred (100)). The manifold 500 includes a housing 502 adapted to removably engage the manifold receiver 54. The housing 502 includes a body portion 504 and a cap portion 506. As previously expressed, the cap portion 506 may be coupled to the body portion 504 by a removable or permanent connection means, or the body and cap portions 504, 506 may be formed as a one-piece, unitary structure. In an example, the body and cap portions 504, 506 are spin welded at the interface to prevent reuse. As best shown in fig. 31, the housing 502 defines a manifold volume 508, and an outlet opening 510 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 508. Body portion 504 may include a proximal base 526 and a side 528 extending distally from proximal base 526 to define a cavity 530 that includes a portion of manifold volume 508. The housing 502 includes an inlet fitting 512, the inlet fitting 512 defining an inlet aperture 514 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 508. As previously described, the outlet opening 510 is adapted to be in fluid communication with the suction inlet 58 of the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the housing 502 is engaged with the manifold receiver 54, thereby providing a suction path from the inlet aperture 514 to the suction inlet 58.

The manifold 500 may include a drip valve 532 positioned within the outlet opening 510 to prevent the flow of material out of the outlet opening 510 when the housing 502 is disengaged from the manifold receiver 54. The drip valve 532 may include a pair of deflectable wings 534 defining a slit 536, wherein the boss 64 (see fig. 2) of the manifold receiver 54 is adapted to deflect the wings 534 and extend through the slit 536 of the drip valve 532. This arrangement provides fluid communication between the manifold volume 508 and the suction inlet 58 of the medical waste collection assembly 50.

The manifold 500 may include a filter element 516 disposed within the housing 502 and in the suction path. The filter element 516 defines a porous feature 518 adapted to capture semi-solid and solid matter entrained in the flow drawn along the suction path. A suction path is provided from the inlet aperture 514 through each of the manifold volume 508, the filter element 516, and the outlet opening 510 to the suction inlet 52. The filter element 516 may include a base wall 520 and a sidewall 522 extending from the base wall 520 to form a basket defining a mouthpiece 524. The filter element 516 may include certain features (e.g., a window 715) that will be described in detail later. It should be appreciated that the previously described embodiments of the filter elements 216, 316 may be used.

Referring also to fig. 32, the cap portion 506 includes a cap portion 542 and a support frame 543. The cap head 542 can include one or more orientation features 552, such as one or more pairs of rails extending radially inward from the inner annular surface. The guide rails receive a protrusion 552 disposed adjacent the mouth 524 of the filter element 516 to prevent rotation of the filter element 516 relative to the cap portion 506. The cap head 542 includes at least one sidewall extending distally and terminating at a distal face 556. An aperture 558 extends through distal surface 556.

The support frame 543 may be integrally formed with the cap head 542. A support frame 543 is positioned distal to the cap head 542 and defines a front portion of the manifold 500. As shown in fig. 29 and 30, the cap portion 506 of the housing 502 defines a distal barrier 503 located near the front of the manifold 500. Housing 502 includes inlet fitting 512, and more specifically, support frame 543 of cap portion 506 includes inlet fitting 512. The inlet fitting 512 extends distally from the distal barrier 503, while the inlet aperture 514 extends through the distal barrier 503.

The housing 502 also defines an accessory opening 511 to an accessory sleeve 513. Accessory sleeve 513 is in fluid communication with manifold volume 508 through an aperture 558 extending through distal surface 556. The accessory sleeve 513 is disposed within the support frame 543 of the cap body 506. FIG. 29 shows the attachment positioned at the upper portion of the support frame 543Opening 511, wherein accessory sleeve 513 opens downwardly within support frame 543. Accessory sleeve 513 may be oriented on axis a_sThe upper, distal housing 502 is angled away from its longitudinal axis, and more specifically, is angled proximally away from the front of the housing. With tray 576 removably positioned within accessory sleeve 513 in a manner to be described, the orientation of accessory sleeve 513 limits or prevents accidental "splash" of medical waste from within accessory sleeve 513 after tray 576 is removed from the suction path. In one example, axis A of accessory sleeve 513_sApproximately in the range of 45 degrees to 75 degrees, and more specifically in the range of 55 degrees to 65 degrees, relative to the longitudinal axis of the housing 502.

The inlet aperture 514 of the inlet fitting 512 may be inclined with respect to horizontal. In particular, the inlet aperture 514 is oriented on an axis Ab that is angled distally upward relative to the longitudinal axis of the housing 502. The inclination of the inlet aperture 514 limits or prevents medical waste from inadvertently "dripping" from the inlet aperture 514 after the suction line 52 is removed. Any remaining fluid in inlet bore 514 flows under the influence of gravity toward accessory sleeve 513. Valve 541 may be coupled to housing 502 and positioned within accessory sleeve 513, as best shown in FIG. 30. The valve 541 may be a flapper valve adapted to be positioned over the proximal end of the inlet aperture 514 to prevent fluid from flowing back from the attachment sleeve 513 to the inlet aperture 514. Other suitable valves, such as duckbill valves, are contemplated.

As mentioned, manifold 500 includes a tray 576 configured for removable positioning within accessory sleeve 513. The tray 576 defines a tissue collection chamber 582 and a porous feature 586 within the tissue collection chamber 582. With tray 576 positioned within accessory sleeve 513, porous feature 582 is in the aspiration path to collect the tissue sample. Once it is desired to retrieve the collected tissue sample, tray 576 may be slidably removed from accessory sleeve 513 with the tissue sample disposed within tissue collection cavity 582. It should be understood that tray 576 is optional and that manifold 500 may operate without tray 576 within accessory sleeve 513. The manifold 500 may include a cap 545 sized to sealingly engage the accessory opening 511. The cap 545 may be coupled to the housing 502 by a tether 547. Fig. 29 shows another cap 549 adapted for sealing engagement with the inlet fitting 512 to cover the inlet aperture 514. The cap 549 may also be coupled to the housing 502 by a tether 551.

Referring also to fig. 33, the tray 576 may be formed of a single piece or multiple pieces. The tray 576 includes a control surface 588 adapted to receive input from a user. The control surface 588 may be formed as a handle that is pinched between the user's fingers. Fig. 33 shows a square shaped handle with grip features 553 provided on one or more of the faces of the square shaped handle. Tray 576 also includes a sealing surface 555 adapted to sealingly engage housing 502 when tray 576 is positioned within accessory sleeve 513. In particular, the tray 576 can include a flange defining a sealing surface 555, wherein the sealing surface 555 is adapted to contact a perimeter of the accessory opening 511. With tray 576 positioned within accessory sleeve 513 and sealing surface 555 covering accessory opening 511, suction through the suction path is maintained during operation of medical waste collection assembly 50. Likewise, the cap 545 is sized to cover the accessory opening 511 to maintain suction through the suction path.

The tray 576 may include a retention feature 559, the retention feature 559 adapted to destructively (defaatably) engage a complementary retention feature of the housing 502. The retention feature 559 is adapted to simultaneously engage a sealing surface 555 positioned adjacent a perimeter of the accessory opening 511. Fig. 31 shows that the retention feature 559 includes a detent positioned on an underside of the tissue collection cavity 582. The retention feature 559 engages a groove within the housing 502, i.e., an upper portion of the aperture 558 of the cap head 542. When retention feature 559 engages a complementary retention feature, tactile and/or audible feedback may be provided to the user so that the user is assured that tray 576 is fully seated or seated within accessory sleeve 513. Further, with the retention feature 559 engaged, the sealing surface 555 is adjacent the perimeter of the accessory opening 511 such that the suction path is successfully established once the medical waste collection assembly 50 is actuated. Once a tissue sample is collected within the tissue collection cavity 582 and the user desires to remove the tray 576, sufficient force input is provided to the control surface 588 of the tray 576 to disengage the retention features 559 and complementary retention features (e.g., overcome the interference engagement between the detents and the housing 502).

The tray 576 may include a second retaining feature (not shown) to engage a second complementary retaining feature (not shown) of the housing 502. A second complementary retaining feature is located in place on tray 576 and housing 502 such that tray 576 may only be partially placed or seated within accessory sleeve 513. Additional sealing surfaces may be provided to cover accessory opening 511 to maintain suction, with tray 576 only partially disposed within accessory sleeve 513. Accordingly, the tray 576 may be disposed in the bypass position and define a bypass channel 592 between a distal one of the side portions 585 and the bottom of the attachment sleeve 513. The medical waste collection assembly 50 may be operated with the tray 576 in the bypass position, allowing fluid to flow through the aspiration path without the tray 576 collecting the tissue sample. Once the user wishes to collect a tissue sample, the user provides further input to the control surface 588 (i.e., pushes the tray 576 downward) to disengage the second complementary retention feature, moving the tray 576 from the bypass position to a tissue collection position in which the tissue collection lumen 582 is fully disposed in the accessory sleeve 513 such that the porous feature 586 is in the aspiration path to collect the tissue sample.

As previously mentioned, it is desirable to visualize the tissue collection cavity 582 during collection of a tissue sample. The quick visual confirmation provided to the user while the tissue sample is within the tissue collection chamber 582 allows the user to move to any other aspect of the surgical procedure. When the tray 576 is within the accessory sleeve 513, the tissue collection lumen 582 of the tray 576 is open to the front of the manifold 500 and the distal barrier 503 includes a lens 596 that provides magnification within the tissue collection lumen when the tray is within the accessory sleeve 513.

Referring to fig. 33, the tray 576 can include opposing pairs of side portions 585 extending from a screening surface 584 that defines the porous feature 586. The side portions 585 and the screen surface 584 cooperate to define a tissue collection chamber 582 of the tray 576. By convention, the tissue collection chamber 582 of fig. 33 is considered to be open away from the screen surface 584 in a direction parallel to side 585. The tray 576 further includes an orientation feature 587 configured to engage a complementary orientation feature 589 of the accessory sleeve 513 for positioning the tray 576 within the accessory sleeve 513 in a predetermined orientation relative to the distal stop 503, particularly when the tissue collection lumen 582 is open toward the distal stop 503. Fig. 33 shows that the orientation feature 587 includes a tapered portion of the side 585 of the tray 576. The orientation feature 587 tapers a side 585 of the tray 576 to a design thickness. Complementary orientation feature 589 comprises a protrusion positioned within accessory sleeve 513 such that tray 576 can only be fully seated within accessory sleeve 513 in one orientation of tray 576 relative to distal blocking member 503. As best shown in fig. 31, one of the protrusions is spaced from the proximal surface of attachment sleeve 513 a distance slightly greater than the designed thickness of side 585 of tray 576. Thus, when tray 576 is slidably moved downwardly within accessory sleeve 513 in a predetermined orientation, a distal portion of tray 576 is disposed within a portion of accessory sleeve 513 between the protrusion and the proximal surface defining accessory sleeve 513. Fig. 31 shows another of the protrusions that blocks a distal portion of accessory sleeve 513 to prevent tray 576 from being placed within accessory sleeve 513 in any orientation other than the predetermined orientation described above. With tray 576 disposed in a predetermined orientation within accessory sleeve 513, tissue collection lumen 582 opens toward the front of manifold 500, e.g., toward distal barrier 503 defining the distal surface of accessory sleeve 513.

Fig. 29-31 show the distal barrier 503 including a lens 596. The lens 596 is shown as being elliptical, but other suitable geometries are contemplated. The lens 596 is shaped to maximize visualization of the tissue collection cavity 582 and provide magnification thereto. The angled arrangement of the accessory sleeve 513, the forwardly opening tissue collection lumen 582 of the tray 576, and the lens 596 of the distal blocking member 503 cooperate to provide a user with a reasonable distance to glance at the manifold 500 to quickly determine if an appropriate tissue sample has been captured without undue manipulation of the manifold 500. In addition, inserting the tray 576 into the manifold 500 on a different face of the manifold 500 than the inlet aperture 514 further facilitates visualization. It is contemplated that illumination may be provided to illuminate the tissue collection chamber 582.

Referring now to fig. 34-36, another manifold 600 is shown that is similar in at least some respects to the previously described manifold (and some like components are indicated by like numerals increased by one hundred (100)). The manifold 600 includes a housing 602 adapted to removably engage the manifold receiver 54. Housing 602 includes a body portion 604 and a cap portion 606. As previously expressed, the cap portion 606 may be coupled to the body portion 604 by a removable or permanent coupling device, or the body and cap portions 604, 606 may be formed as a one-piece, unitary structure. In an example, the body and cap portions 604, 606 are spin welded at the interface to prevent reuse. As best shown in fig. 36, the housing 602 defines a manifold volume 608 and an outlet opening 610 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 608. The body portion 604 may include a proximal base 626 and sides 628 extending distally from the proximal base 626 to define a cavity 630 that includes a portion of the manifold volume 608. A drip valve 632 may be positioned within the outlet opening 610 to prevent fluid from flowing out of the outlet opening 610 when the housing 602 is disengaged from the manifold receiver 54 and to provide fluid communication between the manifold volume 608 and the suction inlet 52 of the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the housing 602 is engaged with the manifold receiver 54, in the manner previously described.

The manifold 600 may include a filter element 616 disposed within the housing 602 and in the suction path. The filter element 616 defines a porous feature 618 adapted to capture semi-solid and solid matter entrained within the flow drawn along the suction path. Referring to fig. 37 and 38 together, the cap portion 606 includes a cap head 642 and a support frame 643. The cap head 642 may include one or more orientation features 652, such as one or more pairs of rails extending radially inward from the inner annular surface. The guide track receives the protrusion 627 of the filter element 616 to prevent rotation of the filter element 616 relative to the cap portion 606. Cap head 642 includes at least one sidewall 654 extending distally and terminating at a distal face 656. First aperture 658 and second aperture 657 extend through distal face 656 for a function to be described. A valve 641 may be disposed within the cap head 642 disposed over the first and second apertures 657, 658 to prevent fluid from flowing back from the cap head 642.

The support frame 643 may be integrally formed with the cap head 642 or detachably coupled to the cap head 642. The support frame 643 includes opposing lateral sides 661 and a front side 663 separated by upper and lower surfaces. The housing 602 also defines an accessory opening 611 leading to an accessory sleeve 613. The accessory sleeve 613 is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 608 through first and second apertures 657, 658 extending through the distal face 656. The accessory sleeve 613 is disposed within the support frame 643 of the cap body 606. More specifically, the attachment opening 611 is within one of the opposing sides 661 of the support frame 643 and the attachment sleeve 613 extends inwardly from the attachment opening 611. The accessory sleeve 613 is shaped to complement the side profile of the tray 676 so that the accessory sleeve 613 removably receives the tray 676 in a manner to be described. The front side 663 of the support frame 643 further defines a first opening 665 and a bypass opening 667 that is separate from the first opening 665. As shown in fig. 37, the first opening 665 may be coaxial and in fluid communication with the first aperture 658 and separated by the accessory sleeve 613, and the bypass opening 667 may be coaxial and in fluid communication with the second aperture 657 to define a bypass channel 692.

The manifold 600 includes a slide member 669 slidably coupled to a support frame 643. The slide member 669 includes an upper surface 671 and a lower surface 673, the upper surface 671 and the lower surface 673 being separated by a gap having a size approximately equal to a thickness of the support frame 643 defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the support frame 643. A gap between the upper surface 671 and the lower surface 673 slidably receives the support frame 643. Each of the support frame 643 and the slide member 669 includes complementary rail features 675 to limit movement of the slide member 669 relative to the support frame 643 to one degree of freedom. In particular, the rail features 675 of the support frame 643 include elongated slots oriented parallel to the front side 663, and the rail features 675 of the sliding member 669 are elongated rails oriented to engage the slots. When viewing the front of the manifold 600, the movement of the sliding member 669 relative to the support frame 643 may be considered lateral movement.

The sliding member 669 includes an inlet fitting 612 that defines an inlet aperture 614. Fig. 39 shows that the inlet fitting 612 extends distally from the front surface 672 of the slide member 669, thereby separating the upper surface 671 and the lower surface 673. The inlet fitting 612 is adapted to receive the suction line 52. The sliding member 669 also includes a control surface 688 adapted to receive input from a user, with resulting functionality to be described. The control surface 688 can include the upper surface 671 and the lower surface 673 described above that are adapted to be grasped or pinched by the fingers of a user to impart sliding movement of the sliding member 669 relative to the support frame 643.

As mentioned, the accessory sleeve 613 of the support frame 643 is configured to removably receive the tray 676. Referring to fig. 40, the tray 676 may be generally box-shaped, but other suitable geometries are contemplated. The tray 676 includes a screening surface 684 and a pair of opposing sides 685 extending from the screening surface 684 to define a tissue collection cavity 682. One of the pair of opposing sides 685 can define a front wall opposite a rear wall. The screen surface 684 of the tray 676 defines a porous feature 686. Screening surface 684 may include a first screening surface 684a and a second screening surface 684b that is inclined relative to first screening surface 684 a. Second screen surface 684b is inclined upwardly toward the rear wall. In addition to being more effectively positioned in the suction path, the angled second screen surface 684b may also provide a trapezoidal shape to the side profile of the tray 676 to serve as an orientation feature for inserting and removing the tray 676 from the accessory sleeve 613. In other words, the side profile of the tray 676 and the corresponding shape of the accessory opening 611 require that the tray 676 be in a predetermined orientation to be disposed or seated within the accessory sleeve 613. Fig. 40 also shows that the tray 676 includes a cutout 699 in the front wall, and a grip 674 extending from a side 685 thereof. When the tray 676 is disposed within the accessory sleeve 613, the cutout 699 aligns with the inlet aperture 614 (and the first aperture 688) of the inlet fitting 612. The grip 674 may include a gripping feature 653 to facilitate reliable manipulation of the tray 676.

In operation, if a user wishes to collect a tissue sample within the tissue collection cavity 682 of the tray 676, the user provides an input to the control surface 688 to move the sliding member 669 to a tissue collection position. When tray 676 is disposed within accessory sleeve 613, sliding member 669 is moved such that inlet aperture 614 of inlet fitting 612 is positioned in fluid communication with tissue collection chamber 682. A suction path is established from the inlet aperture 614 through each of the first opening 665, the tissue collection cavity 682, the first aperture 658, the manifold volume 608, the filter element 616, and the outlet opening 610 to the suction inlet 52. The porous feature 686 of the tray 676 is in the aspiration path and collects a tissue sample. In one example, moving the inlet aperture 614 in fluid communication with the tissue collection chamber 682 includes axially aligning the inlet aperture 614 with the first opening 665. It should be appreciated that the bypass channel 692 is not within the aspiration path when the tissue collection lumen 682 is in the aspiration path.

Once the desired tissue sample is collected and/or the user prefers to operate the manifold 600 without collecting a tissue sample, another input is provided to the control surface 688 to move the sliding member 669 to the bypass position. The sliding member 669 is moved such that the inlet aperture 614 of the inlet fitting 612 is positioned in fluid communication with the bypass passage 692. A suction path is established from the inlet aperture 614 through each of the bypass opening 667, the bypass passage 692, the second aperture 657, the manifold volume 608, the filter element 616, and the outlet opening 610 to the suction inlet 52. In one example, moving the inlet bore 614 in fluid communication with the bypass passage 692 includes axially aligning the inlet bore 614 with the bypass opening 667. It should be appreciated that when the bypass passageway 692 is in the aspiration path, the tissue collection lumen 682 is not within the aspiration path.

With the sliding member 669 in the bypass position and the tissue collection cavity 682 not within the aspiration path, the tray 676 can be removed from the accessory sleeve 613 without interrupting the operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50. For example, the user may remove the tray 676 to retrieve the collected tissue sample while another user continues with other aspects of the surgical procedure that require the medical waste collection assembly 50 to provide suction. If the retrieved tissue sample is not satisfactory and/or another tissue sample is needed, another tray 676 can be quickly placed within the accessory sleeve 613 without undue interruption, such as loss of suction.

The manifold 600 accommodates visualization to provide the user with an improved tissue collection experience. Referring to fig. 34 and 39, the slide member 669 includes a lens 696 that provides for enlargement within the tissue collection cavity 682 when the tray 676 is within the accessory sleeve 613 and when the slide member 669 is in the tissue collection position. It is contemplated that illumination may be provided to illuminate the tissue collection chamber 682.

An exemplary method of collecting a tissue sample with the manifold 600 is also contemplated. The manifold 600 is coupled to the medical waste collection assembly 50 such that the outlet opening 610 is in fluid communication with the suction inlet 58 of the medical waste collection assembly 50. The suction line 52 is coupled to an inlet fitting 612 of the manifold 600. The medical waste collection assembly 50 is operated with the sliding member 669 in the bypass position. The inlet aperture 614 of the inlet fitting 612 is in fluid communication with the bypass channel 692 such that fluid is allowed to flow through the suction path without the tray 676 collecting the tissue sample. The user applies an input to control surface 688 to move slide member 669 from the bypass position to the tissue collection position. In the tissue collection position, the inlet aperture 614 of the inlet fitting 612 is in fluid communication with the tissue collection lumen 682 such that the porous feature 686 is in the suction path. The medical waste collection assembly 50 is operated with the sliding member 669 in the tissue collection position to collect a tissue sample. For example, after a tissue sample is collected within the tissue collection cavity 682, another input may be applied to the control surface 688 to return the sliding member 669 to the bypass position. The prior input may include applying a lateral force to the control surface 688 in a first linear direction, while the later input may include applying another lateral force to the control surface 688 in a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction to return the sliding member 669 to the bypass position. When the sliding member 669 is in the tissue collection position, the tissue collection cavity can be viewed through the lens 696. The tray 676 can be removed from the accessory sleeve 613 with the slide member 669 in the bypass position. Another tray (not shown) may be provided and placed into the accessory sleeve 613 of the slide member 669 with the slide member 669 in the bypass position.

41-46, another manifold 700 is shown that is similar at least in some respects to the previously described manifold (and some like components are represented by like numerals increased by one hundred (100)). The manifold 700 includes a housing 702 adapted to removably engage the manifold receiver 54. Housing 702 includes a body portion 704 and a cap portion 706. As previously expressed, the cap portion 706 may be coupled to the body portion 704 by a removable or permanent coupling device, or the body and cap portions 704, 706 may be formed as a single-piece, unitary structure. In an example, the body and cap portions 704, 706 are spin welded at the interface to prevent reuse. As best shown in fig. 43, the housing 702 defines a manifold volume 708 and an outlet opening 710 in fluid communication with the manifold volume 708. The body portion 704 may include a proximal base 726 and a side 728 extending distally from the proximal base 726 to define a cavity 730 that includes a portion of the manifold volume 708. A drip valve (not shown) may be positioned within the outlet opening 710 to prevent fluid from flowing out of the outlet opening 710 when the housing 702 is disengaged from the manifold receiver 54 and to provide fluid communication between the manifold volume 708 and the suction inlet 58 of the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the housing 702 is engaged with the manifold receiver 54, in the manner previously described.

The manifold 700 may include a filter element 716 disposed within the housing 702 and in the suction path to be described. The filter element 716 defines a porous feature 718 adapted to capture semi-solid and solid matter entrained within the flow drawn along the suction path. Referring also to fig. 41, the cap portion 706 includes a cap head 742 and a support frame 743. The support frame 743 of the manifold 700 is a stator and is hereinafter referred to as the stator. Cap head 742 is coupled to body portion 704. Cap head 742 includes at least one sidewall 754 extending distally and terminating at a distal face 756. An aperture 758 extends through the distal face 756.

The stator 743 may be integrally formed with the cap head 742, or the stator 743 may be coupled to the cap head 742 by a suitable connection process. Fig. 47 shows stator 743 coupled to a cap head 742 by throat member 729. Throat member 729 extends distally from a distal face 756 of cap head 742 and proximally from a portion of stator 743. Stator 743 defines void space 731, void space 731 communicating with aperture 758 through the lumen defined by throat member 729. Referring to fig. 42 and 47, the void space 731 of the stator 734 may be defined by a base 733 and at least one sidewall 735 extending from the base 733. Void space 731 is shown as cylindrical, but other suitable geometries are contemplated. The stator 743 of the housing 702 includes an inlet fitting 712 adapted to receive the suction line 52. The inlet fitting 712 defines an inlet aperture 714 in fluid communication with the void space 731.

Manifold 700 includes a rotor 737 rotatably disposed within stator 743. When disposed within void space 731, rotor 737 is supported on base 733 of stator 743. Referring to fig. 48 and 49, rotor 737 includes an outer annular wall 739, the outer diameter of which is substantially similar to, but slightly smaller than, the inner diameter of the inner annular wall of rotor 737. Rotor 737 defines a pair of first openings 765a, 765b and a pair of bypass openings 767a, 767 b. Each of the pair of first openings 765a, 765b are defined by an outer wall 739 and are in fluid communication with each other to define a tissue channel 791, and each of the pair of bypass openings 767a, 767b are defined by an outer wall 739 and are in fluid communication with each other to define a bypass channel 792 (see fig. 45 and 46). One of the first openings 765a can be considered an inlet of the tissue channel 791 and the other of the first openings 765b can be considered an outlet of the tissue channel 791. Likewise, one of the bypass openings 767a can be considered an inlet of the bypass passage 792 and the other of the bypass openings 767b can be considered an outlet of the bypass passage 792. Bypass channel 792 is separate from tissue channel 791 and tissue collection chamber 782.

The rotor 737 defines a tissue collection cavity 782 and a porous feature 786 within the tissue collection cavity 782. The porous feature 786 may be defined by a screening surface 784 that is removably coupled to the rotor 737. In another form of the rotor 737, the screening surface 784 is integrally formed with the rotor 737. Tissue collection cavity 782 is associated with inlet 765a such that inlet 765a of tissue channel 791 leads to tissue collection cavity 782.

Rotor 737 may also include a control surface 788 adapted to receive input from a user. Control surface 788 is associated with a handle 789 extending from an upper surface of rotor 737. The control surface 788 receives input to switch the manifold 700 between a tissue collection position and a bypass position as will be described. It is contemplated that the control surface may be an electronic input device (e.g., a button) that generates a signal that is sent to the controller to actuate rotor 737.

In operation, if a user desires to collect a tissue sample in the tissue collection cavity 782 of the tray 776, the user provides input to the control surface 788 to rotate the rotor 737 to the tissue collection position within the stator 743. The rotor 737 is rotated such that the tissue collection cavity 782 is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture 714. A porous feature 786 is in the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample. Fig. 43 and 44 show manifold 700 with rotor 737 in a tissue collection position. It can be seen that the suction path between the inlet aperture 714 and the tissue collection chamber is somewhat tortuous for confirmation reasons. To facilitate the illustrated pumping path, rotor 737 includes a groove 793 in outer wall 739. As best shown in fig. 48, the groove 793 extends radially a designed distance from the inlet 765 a. The design distance is such that the end of groove 793 opposite opening 765a is substantially aligned with inlet aperture 714 when rotor 737 is rotated to the tissue collection position. With the rotor 737 in the tissue collection position, a suction path is established from the inlet aperture 714 to the suction inlet 52 through each of the inlet 765a, the recess 793, the tissue collection cavity 782, the tissue channel 791, the outlet opening 765b, the aperture 758, the manifold volume 708, the filter element 716, and the outlet opening 710. It should be appreciated that when tissue collection chamber 782 is in the aspiration path, bypass channel 792 is not in the aspiration path.

Once the desired tissue sample is collected and/or the user prefers to operate the manifold 700 without collecting a tissue sample, another input is provided to the control surface 788 to rotate the rotor 737 to the bypass position within the stator 743. Fig. 44 and 46 show manifold 700 with rotor 737 in the bypass position. The rotor 737 is rotated such that the bypass passage 792 is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture 714 and the tissue collection chamber 782 is not in the suction path. A suction path is established from the inlet aperture 714 to the suction inlet 52 through each of the inlet 767a, the bypass passage 792, the outlet opening 767b, the aperture 758, the manifold volume 708, the filter element 716 and the outlet opening 710.

With the rotor 737 in the bypass position such that the tissue collection cavity 682 is not within the aspiration path, the manifold 700 advantageously provides for retrieval of a collected tissue sample without interrupting operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50. Referring to fig. 41, the stator 743 defines a window 715 that extends through the sidewall 735. When the rotor 737 is in the bypass position, the windows 715 may be positioned circumferentially around the stator 743 to align with the tissue collection cavity 782. In addition, window 715 includes a height and width to expose tissue collection cavity 782 to allow for tissue sample removal. For example, a user may place a container (e.g., a formalin can) under the exposed tissue collection cavity 782 and use an instrument (e.g., a spatula) to scrape a tissue sample from the porous feature 786 into the container. A cutout 799 in the rotor 737 below the tissue collection cavity 782 provides a straight line drop from the tissue collection cavity 782 to the container. When the tissue sample is retrieved, another user may proceed with other aspects of the surgical procedure requiring the medical waste collection assembly 50 to provide suction. If the retrieved tissue sample is not satisfactory and/or another tissue sample is needed, rotor 737 may be quickly rotated back to the tissue collection position.

The manifold 700 accommodates visualization to provide the user with an improved tissue collection experience. The stator 743 may include a lens 796 positioned to align with the tissue collection cavity 782 and provide amplification within the tissue collection cavity 782 when the rotor 737 is in the tissue collection position. As previously described, this is accomplished in part by the somewhat tortuous suction path between the inlet aperture 714 and the tissue collection chamber. The inlet fitting 712 is offset and a recess 793 is provided in the rotor 737 such that the lens 796 is coaxially aligned with the tissue collection chamber 782 when the rotor 737 is in the tissue collection position. Further, with lens 796 positioned in front of manifold 700, a user may pan manifold 700 from a reasonable distance and without undue manipulation of manifold 700 to quickly determine whether a suitable tissue sample has been captured. It is contemplated that illumination may be provided to illuminate the tissue collection chamber 782.

An exemplary method of collecting a tissue sample using the manifold 700 is also contemplated. The housing 702 of the manifold 700 is coupled to the medical waste collection assembly 50 such that the outlet opening 710 is in fluid communication with the suction inlet 58 of the medical waste collection assembly 50. The suction line 52 is coupled to the inlet fitting 712 to provide a suction path from the inlet aperture 714 of the inlet fitting 712 to the suction inlet 58. The medical waste collection assembly 50 is operated with the manifold 700 in the bypass position. Bypass channel 792 is in the aspiration path, and tissue collection chamber 782 is not in the aspiration path. The control surface 788 is actuated to rotate the rotor 737 from the bypass position to the tissue collection position within the stator 743. For example, the control surface 788 is rotated in a first rotational direction. The tissue collection chamber 782 is in the suction path and the bypass channel 792 moves away from the suction path. The medical waste collection assembly 50 is operated with the manifold 700 in the tissue collection position to collect a tissue sample using the porous feature 786 of the tissue collection chamber 782. When the rotor 797 is in the tissue collection position, the tissue collection cavity 782 can be viewed through the lens 796. After collecting the tissue sample, control surface 788 may be actuated to return rotor 737 to the bypass position. For example, the control surface 788 is rotated in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction. When rotor 737 is in the bypass position, a tissue sample may be removed from tissue collection cavity 782. For example, a tissue sample may be retrieved from the exposed tissue collection cavity 782 through the window 715 of the stator 743, e.g., using an instrument that scrapes the porous feature 786 to remove the tissue sample.

In the above-described embodiment of the manifold 700, the rotor 737 is rotatably disposed with the stator 743 fixed relative to the body portion 704. It is contemplated that the opposite configuration may be implemented, wherein the "rotor" is fixed relative to the body portion 704, and the "stator" rotates or pivots about the "rotor". Further, the above-described embodiment of manifold 700 includes rotor 737 that rotates about a vertical axis. It is contemplated that each of rotor 737 and stator 743 may be oriented about a horizontal axis.

Referring now to fig. 50 and 51, another manifold 800 is shown that is similar at least in some respects to the previously described manifold (and some like components are indicated by like numerals plus one hundred (100)). Manifold 800 includes a housing 802 adapted to removably engage manifold receiver 54. Housing 802 includes a cap portion 806 and a body portion (not shown), which may include any of those described in this disclosure. As previously described, the cap portion 806 may be coupled to the body portion by a removable or permanent connection means, or the body portion and the cap portion 806 may be formed as a one-piece, unitary structure, e.g., spin welded at the interface to prevent reuse. As best shown in fig. 52, a manifold volume 808 is defined, and an outlet opening (not shown) is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 808. The housing 802 includes a first inlet fitting 812a that defines a first inlet aperture 814a in fluid communication with the manifold volume 808. The housing 802 includes a second inlet fitting 8l2b defining a second inlet bore 8l4b, the second inlet bore 8l4b being in fluid communication with the manifold volume 808 in a manner to be described. As previously described, the outlet opening is adapted to be in fluid communication with the suction inlet 52 of the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the housing 802 is engaged with the manifold receiver 54, thereby providing a suction path from the inlet aperture 514 to the suction inlet 58. A drip valve (not shown) may be positioned within the outlet opening to prevent fluid from flowing out of the outlet opening when the housing 802 is disengaged from the manifold receiver 54 and to provide fluid communication between the manifold volume 808 and the suction inlet 58 of the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the housing 802 is engaged with the manifold receiver 54, in the manner previously described. The manifold 800 may include a filter element (not shown) disposed within the housing 802 and in the suction path to be described. The filter element defines a porous feature adapted to capture semi-solid and solid matter entrained in a flow drawn along the suction path.

Fig. 51 shows cap portion 806 including cap panel 840 and cap head 842. The cap head 842 includes at least one sidewall 854 extending distally and terminating at a distal face 856. Apertures 858a, 858b extend through distal face 856 of cap head 852 and respectively open to tissue collection channel 891 extending through cap head 842. Referring also to fig. 54, the cap panel 840 may be disc-shaped, including a proximal face 870 and a distal face 872 opposite the proximal face 870. The coupling feature 864 may be a pair of slots arranged to provide a bayonet mount with a complementary coupling feature 866 of the cap panel 840, as shown in fig. 51 and 54. The complementary coupling feature 866 of the cap panel 840 is a post circumferentially arranged to be received within the slot. Of course, other coupling features are contemplated. The tubular portion 868 extends proximally from the proximal face 870. To facilitate operation of the manifold 800 in a manner to be described, the cap panel 840 may include a control surface 874 adapted to be manipulated (e.g., pinched) by a user.

The cap panel 840 of the cap portion 806 includes a first inlet fitting 8l2 a. As shown in fig. 50 and 51, the first inlet fitting 8l2a extends distally from the distal face 872 of the cap panel 840, while the inlet aperture 814a extends through the cap panel 840. In this way, with the manifold 800 assembled, the first inlet fitting 8l2a is rotatable relative to the body portion, i.e. it rotates about the longitudinal axis of the housing. It is contemplated that the first inlet fitting may be movable in other ways. A second inlet fitting 8l2b may extend distally from the distal face 856 of the cap head 852. The second inlet fitting 8l2b is not directly connected to the cap panel 840. The first inlet connection 8l2a is rotatable relative to the body portion, while the second inlet connection 8l2b is fixed relative to the cap head 852 and the body portion. The second inlet aperture 814b defined by the second inlet fitting 812b communicates with a second aperture 857b, to be described, to define one of the bypass channels 892. The second inlet connection may also be part of the housing.

The housing 802 also defines at least one accessory opening 811 leading to the accessory sleeve 813, respectively. The accessory sleeve 813 is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 808. An accessory sleeve 813 is disposed within the cap body 806. Fig. 50 shows one of the accessory openings 811 positioned at a side portion of the cap head 842 with the accessory sleeve 813 opening radially inward into the manifold volume 808. The other of the accessory openings 811 can be positioned diametrically opposite the other accessory opening 811 relative to the cap body 806.

The manifold 800 includes at least one tray 876a, 876b configured to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve 813. Referring to fig. 51, trays 876a, 876b define a tissue collection chamber 882 and a porous feature 886 within tissue collection chamber 882. With the trays 876a, 876b positioned within the accessory sleeve 813, the porous feature 582 can be in the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample, which is further based on the rotatable position of the first inlet aperture 8l4a, in a manner to be described below. Once it is desired to retrieve the collected tissue sample, the trays 876a, 876b can be slidingly removed from the attachment sleeve 813 with the tissue sample placed within the tissue collection cavity 882. It should be understood that the trays 876a, 876b are optional and that the manifold 800 may be operated without the tray 876 within the accessory sleeve 813.

The trays 876a, 876b can be formed from a single piece or multiple pieces. With continued reference to fig. 51, the trays 876a, 876b include opposing pairs of sides 885 extending from a screen surface 884 defining a porous feature 886. Side portions 885 and screen surface 884 collectively define a tissue collection cavity 882 of trays 876a, 876 b. The trays 876a, 876b can further include an orientation feature (not shown) configured to engage a complementary orientation feature (not shown) of the accessory sleeve 813 to position the trays 876a, 876b within the accessory sleeve 813 in a predetermined orientation relative to the distal stop 803. The tray 876 includes a control surface 888 adapted to receive input from a user. The control surface 888 may be formed as a handle that is pinched between the user's fingers. The trays 876a, 876b further include a sealing surface 855 adapted to sealingly engage the housing 802 when the trays 876a, 876b are positioned within the accessory sleeve 813. In particular, the tray 876 can include a flange defining a sealing surface 855, wherein the sealing surface 855 is adapted to contact the perimeter of the accessory opening 811. With the trays 876a, 876b positioned within the accessory sleeve 813 and the sealing surface 855 covering the accessory opening 811, suction is maintained through the suction path during operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50. Likewise, a cap (not shown) may be provided that may be sized to cover the accessory opening 811 to maintain suction through the suction path without the trays 876a, 876 b. Still further, the trays 876a, 876b can include retention features (not shown), such as detents, adapted to destructively engage with complementary retention features of the housing 802 for providing tactile and/or audible feedback to the user, such that the user is assured that the trays 876a, 876b have been fully seated or seated in the accessory sleeve 813. Once the tissue sample is collected within the tissue collection cavity 882 and the user wishes to remove the trays 876a, 876b, a sufficient force input is provided to the control surfaces 888 of the trays 876a, 876b to disengage the retention features and the complementary retention features (e.g., overcome the interference engagement between the detents and the housing 802).

Referring also to fig. 51, cap head 842 of housing 802 defines at least one of apertures 858a, 858b and a second aperture 857. Each of the apertures 858a, 858b may lead to a respective one of the tissue collection channels 891. The tissue collection channel 891 may be coaxial with and in fluid communication with the accessory sleeve 813. The bypass opening 857 may lead to a bypass channel 892 (shown in fig. 51). The second inlet aperture 814b is in fluid communication with another of the bypass channels 892.

In operation, if a user wishes to collect a tissue sample in one or both of the tissue collection cavities 882 of the tray 876, the user provides an input to the control surface 874 to rotate the first inlet fitting 8l2a to align the first inlet aperture 8l4a with one of the apertures 858a, 858 b. In addition, the user positions one of the trays 876a, 876b in one of the accessory sleeves 813. With the first inlet aperture 8l4a aligned with one of the apertures 858a, 858b and the trays 876a, 876b positioned within the attachment sleeve 813, a respective one of the tissue collection lumens 882 is in the aspiration path and a tissue sample drawn through the aspiration path encounters the porous feature 886 within the tissue collection lumen 882. The manifold 800 may be considered to be in a tissue collection position. If another tissue sample is desired, the user may simply provide another input to the control surface 844 to rotate the first inlet fitting 812a to align the first inlet aperture 814a with one of the apertures 858a, 858 b. The user places the other of the trays 876a, 876b in one of the accessory sleeves 813. With the first inlet aperture 814a aligned with the other one of the apertures 858a, 858b and the trays 876a, 876b positioned within the other accessory sleeve 813, the other tissue collection lumen 882 is in the aspiration path and a tissue sample aspirated through the aspiration path encounters the porous feature 886 within the tissue collection lumen 882.

During operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50, if the user does not want to collect a tissue sample, but the manifold 800 remains aspirated, the bypass channel 892 allows fluid to flow through the manifold 800 without collecting a tissue sample. Two bypass channels 892 are shown. The first inlet aperture 8l2a is adapted to be rotated to selectively align with the bypass opening 857. In particular, the user provides an input to the control surface 844 to rotate the first inlet aperture 8l4a into alignment with the bypass opening 857. Manifold 800 may be considered to be in the bypass position. When the bypass channel 892 is in fluid communication with the first inlet aperture 8l4a, the tissue collection chamber 882 may be considered not to be in fluid communication with the inlet aperture 814. Additionally or alternatively, the second suction line may be coupled to a second inlet fitting 812b defining a second inlet aperture 814 b. In such an exemplary operation, waste entering the second inlet aperture 814b is directed through another one of the bypass channels 892. Of course, additional inlet fittings, such as three or four inlet fittings, are also contemplated in cases where certain of the features described above are duplicated.

With the manifold 800 in the bypass position such that the tissue collection cavity 882 is not within the aspiration path, the manifold 800 advantageously provides for retrieval of the collected tissue sample without interrupting operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50. The bypass channel 892 allows a user to continue aspirating the surgical site without first retrieving a tissue sample from the manifold 800 and without compromising the quality of the initially collected tissue sample. In this manner, the manifold 800 may remain engaged with the medical waste collection assembly 50 until the surgical procedure is complete. With the manifold 800 in the bypass position (or with the manifold 800 in the tissue collection position with another tray 876a, 876 b), the user provides input to the control surfaces 888 of the trays 876a, 876b to remove the trays 876a, 876b from their respective accessory sleeves 813. A replacement one of the trays 876a, 876b can be placed into the accessory sleeve 813 without interrupting operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50.

As previously described, the manifold 800 accommodates visualization to provide the user with an improved tissue collection experience. With reference to fig. 51 and 53, the tissue collection lumen 882 of the tray 876 is open to the top of the manifold 800 and the manifold 800 includes a lens 896, the lens 896 providing magnification within the tissue collection lumen when the tray is within the accessory sleeve 813. Further, when the lens 896 at the top of the manifold 800 is positioned horizontally within the medical waste collection assembly 50, a user may glance at the manifold 800 from a reasonable distance and without undue manipulation of the manifold 800 to quickly determine whether a suitable tissue sample has been captured. It is contemplated that illumination may be provided to illuminate the tissue collection cavity 882.

Referring now to fig. 55-61, another manifold 900 is shown that is similar at least in some respects to the previously described manifold (and some like components are indicated by like numerals increased by one hundred (100)). The manifold 900 includes a housing 902 adapted to removably engage the manifold receiver 54. Housing 902 includes a cap portion 906 and a body portion 904. As previously described, the cap portion 906 may be coupled to the body portion by a removable or permanent connection means, or the body portion and the cap portion 904 may be formed as a one-piece, unitary structure, e.g., spin welded at the interface to prevent reuse. The housing 902 defines a manifold volume (not identified). An outlet opening (not shown) is in fluid communication with the manifold volume. The housing 902 includes: a first inlet fitting 9l2a defining a first inlet aperture 9l4a in fluid communication with the manifold volume; and a second inlet fitting 912b defining a second inlet aperture 9l4b in fluid communication with the manifold volume. As previously described, the outlet opening is adapted to be in fluid communication with the suction inlet 52 of the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the housing 902 is engaged with the manifold receiver 54, thereby providing a suction path from the inlet apertures 914a, 914b to the suction inlet 52. A drip valve (not shown) may be positioned within the outlet opening to prevent fluid from flowing out of the outlet when the housing 902 is disengaged from the manifold receiver 54 and to provide fluid communication between the manifold volume and the suction inlet 52 of the medical waste collection assembly 50 when the housing 902 is engaged with the manifold receiver 54, in the manner previously described. The manifold 900 may include a filter element (not shown) disposed within the housing 902 and in the suction path to be described. The filter element defines a porous feature adapted to capture semi-solid and solid matter entrained in a flow drawn along the suction path.

Fig. 55 shows cap portion 906 including cap panel 940 and cap head 942. Referring also to fig. 56, cap head 942 includes at least one sidewall 954 extending distally and terminating in a distal face 956. Referring also to fig. 57, the cap panel 940 may be disc-shaped, including a proximal face 970 and a distal face 972 opposite the proximal face 970. The coupling features 964 may be arranged to provide a bayonet mount with complementary coupling features 966 of the cap panel 940. A tubular portion 968 extends proximally from the proximal face 970. Of course, other coupling features may be used. To facilitate operation of the manifold 900 in a manner to be described, the cap panel 940 may include a control surface 974 adapted to be manipulated by a user.

Cap panel 940 of cap portion 906 includes a first inlet fitting 912 a. As shown in fig. 56, each of the first inlet fitting 9l2a and the second inlet fitting 9l2b extends distally from a distal face 972 of the cap panel 940, and the inlet apertures 9l4a, 9l4b extend through the cap panel 940. As such, with the manifold 900 assembled, the first inlet fitting 912a and the second inlet fitting 912b are rotatable relative to the body portion 904, i.e., rotate relative thereto about a longitudinal axis of the body portion, and are configured to rotate between a tissue collection position and a bypass position. It is also contemplated that the first and second inlet fittings may move in different manners relative to the housing. Indicia 994 may be provided to indicate which is the first inlet fitting 9l2a, as the first inlet fitting 9l2a serves as a port for tissue collection. The indicia 994 shown in fig. 55 and 56 includes a ring around the first inlet fitting 912a to provide a visual as well as a tactile indication without undue effort. Other types of markings, such as tabs or protrusions, are also contemplated.

The housing 902 also defines an accessory opening 911 into an accessory sleeve 913. The accessory sleeve 913 is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 908. An accessory sleeve 913 is disposed within cap body 906. Fig. 56 shows an accessory opening 911 positioned at a side portion of a cap head 942 with an accessory sleeve 913 angled upward in a manner to be described. It is contemplated that another accessory sleeve (not shown) may be positioned diametrically opposite the cap body 806.

The manifold 900 includes a tray 976 configured to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve 913. Referring to fig. 56, the tray 976 defines a tissue collection cavity 982 and a porous feature 986 within the tissue collection cavity 982. With the tray 976 positioned within the accessory sleeve 913, the porous feature 986 can be used within the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample, which is further based on the rotatable position of the first inlet aperture 9l4a, in a manner to be described below. Once it is desired to retrieve the collected tissue sample, the tray 976 may be slidably removed from the accessory sleeve 913 with the tissue sample placed within the tissue collection cavity 982. It should be understood that the tray 976 is optional and that the manifold 900 may operate without the tray 976 within the accessory sleeve 913.

As best shown in fig. 56, the tray 976 may be formed of a single piece or multiple pieces. With continued reference to fig. 56, the tray 976 includes opposing pairs of sides 985 extending from a screen surface 984 defining a porous feature 986. The side portions 985 and the screen surface 984 collectively define a tissue collection cavity 982 of the tray 976. The tray 976 may further include an orientation feature (not shown) configured to engage a complementary orientation feature (not shown) of the accessory sleeve 913, positioning the tray 976 within the accessory sleeve 913 in a predetermined orientation relative to the distal blocker 903. The tray 976 includes a control surface 988 adapted to receive input from a user. Control surface 988 may be formed as a handle to be pinched between the fingers of a user. The tray 976 also includes a sealing surface 955 adapted to sealingly engage the housing 902 when the tray 976 is within the accessory sleeve 913. In particular, the tray 976 may include a flange defining a sealing surface 955, wherein the sealing surface 955 is adapted to contact a perimeter of the accessory opening 911. During operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50, suction through the suction path is maintained while the tray 976 is within the accessory sleeve 913 and the sealing surface 955 covers the accessory opening 911. Likewise, a cap (see, e.g., fig. 29) can be provided and sized to cover the accessory opening 911 to maintain suction through the suction path without the tray 976. Still further, the tray 976 may include retention features (not shown) adapted to destructively engage with complementary retention features of the housing 902, e.g., detents, for providing tactile and/or audible feedback to a user to assure the user that the tray 976 has been fully placed or seated in the accessory sleeve 913. Once a tissue sample is collected in the tissue collection cavity 982 and the user desires to remove the tray 976, sufficient force input is provided to the control surface 988 of the tray 976 to disengage the retention features and complementary retention features (e.g., overcome the interference engagement between the detents and the housing 902).

Referring to fig. 58 and 60 concurrently, the cap head 942 of the housing 902 may define at least one of an aperture 958 and a bypass opening 957. The aperture 958 leads to a tissue collection channel 991. The tissue collection channel 991 is in fluid communication with the accessory sleeve 913. Fig. 58 shows three bypass openings 957a, 957b, 957c, each opening into a respective bypass passage 992 in a manner to be described. In a variation to be described, when the manifold 900 is in the bypass position, one of the bypass openings 957a may be removed to eliminate suction to the suction line 52.

In operation, if a user wishes to collect a tissue sample in the tissue collection cavity 982 of the tray 976, the user provides input to the control surface 974 to rotate the first inlet fitting 9l2a (and thus the second inlet fitting 9l2b) to a tissue collection position as shown in fig. 59. The input may include providing the control surface 974 of the cap panel 940 with a rotation in the first rotational direction D₁And (c) the torque. In the tissue collection position shown in fig. 59, the first inlet aperture 9l4a is in communication with (e.g., coaxially aligned with) the aperture 958, with the tissue collection cavity 982 aligned adjacent to the aperture 958 when the tray 976 is placed within the attachment sleeve 913. At the same time, the second inlet aperture 9l4b communicates, e.g., is coaxially aligned, with the one of the bypass openings 957b that opens into the manifold volume 908.

The user places the tray 976 in the accessory sleeve 913. With the first inlet aperture 9l4a aligned with the aperture 958 and the tray 976 located within the accessory sleeve 913, a suction path is established as shown in fig. 49. In particular, the tissue collection cavity 982 is in the aspiration path and a tissue sample aspirated through the aspiration path encounters the porous feature 986 within the tissue collection cavity 982. The manifold 900 can be considered in the tissue collection position while providing separate suction of waste through a second inlet fitting 912b in communication with the bypass opening 957b described above.

If the user wishes to retrieve a tissue sample collected in the tray 976 and/or remove the tray 976 from the aspiration path, the user provides another input to the control surface 974 to rotate the first inlet fitting 9l2a (and thus the second inlet fitting 9l2b) to the bypass position shown in fig. 60. The input may include directional controlThe braking surface 974 is provided in a second rotational direction D opposite the first rotational direction₂Another torque on the shaft. In the bypass position shown in FIG. 60, the first inlet aperture 9l4a communicates with, e.g., is coaxially aligned with, one of the bypass openings 957a, and the second inlet aperture 9l4b communicates with, e.g., is coaxially aligned with, the other of the bypass openings 957 c.

In the foregoing variation, the bypass opening 957a is removed such that the first inlet aperture 9l4a is aligned with a portion of the distal face 856 of the cap head 942 in the bypass position. Suction through the first inlet aperture 9l4a is removed, eliminating the risk of more tissue sample or waste being sucked through the suction line 52 and the first inlet aperture 914 a.

The tray 976 may be removed from the accessory sleeve 913 with the manifold 900 in the tissue collection position and/or the bypass position. As such, a decrease in suction force may occur after the accessory opening 911 is no longer in sealing engagement with the sealing surface 955 of the tray 976. With the manifold 900 in the tissue collection and/or bypass position, the user provides an input to a control surface 988 of the tray 976 to remove the tray 976 from the accessory sleeve 913. If another tissue sample is desired, a replacement tray 976 may be placed within the accessory sleeve 913 without interrupting the operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50.

The manifold 900 accommodates visualization to provide the user with an improved tissue collection experience. The tissue collection cavity 982 of the tray 976 is open to the distal stop 903 and the manifold 900 includes a lens 996, the lens 996 providing magnification within the tissue collection cavity when the tray is within the accessory sleeve 913. The distal block 903 and other blocks defining the exterior of the accessory sleeve 913 are "clock-wise rotationally displaced" (locked) relative to the longitudinal axis of the manifold 900 such that the distal block 903 including the lens 996 is oriented distally and upwardly relative to the longitudinal axis. The lens 996 is positioned on top of the manifold 900 based on the orientation of the manifold 900 within the medical waste collection assembly 50. A user may pan the manifold 900 from a reasonable distance and without undue manipulation of the manifold 900 to quickly determine whether a suitable tissue sample has been captured. It is contemplated that illumination may be provided to illuminate the tissue collection cavity 982.

Fig. 62-64 illustrate a variation of the manifold 900 of fig. 55-61 having certain alternative or additional features to be described, particularly features relating to the orientation and/or positioning of the tray 976 within the attachment sleeve 913. For the sake of brevity, descriptions are not repeated with respect to the manifold 900 of fig. 55-61, and those descriptions should be considered to be incorporated herein by reference. Manifold 900 includes a cap portion 906 and a body portion 904 that collectively form a housing 902. The housing 902 includes a first inlet fitting 9l2a defining a first inlet aperture 9l4a in fluid communication with the manifold volume and a second inlet fitting 912b defining a second inlet aperture 914b in fluid communication with the manifold volume. Manifold 900 may include a filter element (not shown) disposed within housing 902 and in the suction path.

Fig. 62 shows cap portion 906 including cap panel 940 and cap head 942'. Cap panel 940 of cap portion 906 includes first and second inlet fittings 9l2a, 9l2b, first and second inlet fittings 9l2a, 9l2b being rotatable relative to body portion 904, i.e., orbitably rotatable relative to the longitudinal axis of the body portion, and configured to rotate between a tissue collection position and a bypass position.

Referring also to fig. 63, cap head 942' includes at least one sidewall 954 extending distally and terminating in a distal face (not shown). The housing 902 also defines an accessory opening 911 to an accessory sleeve 913. The accessory sleeve 913 is in fluid communication with the manifold volume 908. An accessory sleeve 913 is disposed within cap portion 906. Fig. 63 shows accessory opening 911 positioned to the side of cap head 942' with accessory sleeve 913 angled upward in a manner to be described.

The manifold 900 includes a tray 976 configured to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve 913. Referring to fig. 64, the tray 976 defines a tissue collection cavity 982 and a porous feature 986 within the tissue collection cavity 982. With the tray 976 positioned within the accessory sleeve 913, the porous feature 986 can be within the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample, which is further based on the rotatable position of the first inlet aperture 914a, in the manner previously described. Once it is desired to retrieve the collected tissue sample, the tray 976 may be slidably removed from the accessory sleeve 913 with the tissue sample placed within the tissue collection cavity 982.

With continued reference to fig. 64, the tray 976 may include a pair of opposing sides 985 extending from a screen surface 984 defining a porous feature 986. The side portions 985 and the screen surface 984 collectively define a tissue collection cavity 982 of the tray 976. The tray 976 includes a control surface 988 adapted to receive input from a user. Control surface 988 may be formed as a handle to be pinched between the fingers of a user. The tray 976 also includes a sealing surface 955 adapted to sealingly engage the housing 902 when the tray 976 is within the accessory sleeve 913. In particular, the tray 976 may include a flange defining a sealing surface 955, wherein the sealing surface 955 is adapted to contact a perimeter of the accessory opening 911. With the tray 976 positioned within the accessory sleeve 913 and the sealing surface 955 covering the accessory opening 911, suction is maintained through the suction path during operation of the medical waste collection assembly 50. Once the tissue sample is collected in the tissue collection cavity 982 and the user wishes to remove the tray 976, a sufficient force input is provided to the control surface 988 of the tray 976 to remove the tray 976 from the attachment sleeve 913.

Referring to fig. 64, the tray 976 may further include an orientation feature 987 configured to engage a complementary orientation feature 989 (shown in fig. 63) of the accessory sleeve 913 to position the tray 976 within the accessory sleeve 913 in a single relative orientation, particularly with respect to the upper blocker 903. The orientation feature 989 of the tray attachment sleeve 913 may be a protrusion. The projections extend inwardly from opposing stops that at least partially define the attachment sleeve 913 and are oriented generally parallel to the direction of the attachment sleeve 913, e.g., parallel to the upper stop 903. Fig. 63 shows that the protrusion extends only partially between the accessory opening 911 and an interface opening in a sidewall 954 of the cap head 942' opposite the accessory opening 911. It is contemplated that orientation feature 989 may extend substantially along the entire accessory sleeve 913 therebetween such that orientation feature 999 more resembles an elongated rail. The orientation feature 989 is closer to the distal stop 903 than the stop opposite the upper stop 903 that at least partially defines the accessory sleeve 913, thus requiring the tray 976 to be coupled with the housing 902 in a single orientation.

The complementary orienting feature 987 of the tray 976 may be a rail configured to movably engage a protrusion of the accessory sleeve 913. Fig. 64 shows the guide rails extending outward from the sealing surface 955 to a location near the end of the tray 976 opposite the sealing surface 955. More specifically, the directional features 987 extend laterally outward from the opposing sides 985, at least partially defining the tissue collection cavity 982. The orientation feature 987 is positioned at an upper edge of the side portion 985, in other words, at an edge of the side portion 985 opposite the screen surface 984. The position of the orientation feature 987 relative to the screen surface 984 and the position of the orientation feature 989 relative to the upper stop 903 requires that the tray 976 be inserted into the attachment sleeve 913 in a single orientation. The rail movably engages the projection such that the tissue collection cavity 982 is open to the first inlet aperture 914 a.

The orientation features 987, 989 may also serve as positioning features to provide a second suction path below the tray 976 (i.e., adjacent the screen surface 984 opposite the tissue collection cavity 982). The second suction path may be used to at least partially attenuate or break suction ("blow-off") between the inlet apertures 9l2a, 9l2b and the outlet opening, after which the accessory opening 911 is no longer in sealing engagement with the sealing surface 955 of the tray 976. The positioning feature and the second suction path will be described in more detail. In short, based on fluid dynamics, once the tray 976 begins to be removed from the accessory sleeve 913, a corresponding fluid flow occurs through the accessory sleeve 913 in the path of least resistance. Because the second suction path is located below the tray 976 when the tray 976 is removed from the accessory sleeve 913, the likelihood that fluid flowing through the accessory sleeve 913 will accidentally and undesirably eject a tissue sample collected in the tissue collection cavity 982 is reduced. The orientation features 987, 989 may suspend the screen surface 984 above a lower stop at least partially defining the attachment sleeve 913 to define a gap. Because the upper surface of the orientation feature 987 (e.g., rail) is positioned adjacent to the upper stop 903 that at least partially defines the accessory sleeve 913, the gap can be the path of least resistance so that most of the fluid is directed under the tray 976 and does not come into contact with the tissue sample collected in the tissue collection cavity 982. Because the flow of fluid into the tissue collection chamber 982 is small and therefore the associated forces are minimal, the likelihood of collected tissue samples siphoning out of the tissue collection chamber 982 and into the manifold volume is reduced or eliminated.

The manifold 900 accommodates visualization to provide the user with an improved tissue collection experience. Referring to fig. 63 and 64, the tissue collection cavity 982 of the tray 976 is open to the upper barrier 903 and the manifold 900 includes a lens 996, the lens 996 providing magnification within the tissue collection cavity when the tray is within the accessory sleeve 913. The upper blocker 903 and other baffles defining the exterior of the accessory sleeve 913 are "rotationally displaced" relative to the longitudinal axis of the manifold 900 such that the upper blocker 903 including the lens 996 is oriented distally and upwardly relative to the longitudinal axis. In particular, fig. 63 shows an upper barrier 903 having a lens 996 disposed thereon, the upper barrier being positioned at an angle γ relative to a plane including the longitudinal axis of the manifold 900. The angle γ may be between about 10 and 45 degrees, more particularly between about 20 and 35 degrees, and even more particularly about 25 degrees. The lens 996 is positioned at the top of the manifold 900 in a generally horizontal orientation relative to the ground based on the orientation of the manifold 900 within the medical waste collection assembly 50. A user may pan through manifold 900 from a reasonable distance and without undue manipulation of manifold 900 to quickly determine whether an appropriate tissue sample has been captured. It is contemplated that illumination may be provided to illuminate the tissue collection cavity 982.

Referring now to fig. 65-68, the cap portion 1106, 1206 for the manifold 1100, 1200 includes a cap head 1142, 1242 and a support frame 1143, 1243. The cap portions 1106, 1206 define upper barriers 1103, 1203. The housing includes a first inlet fitting 1112a, 1212a and a second inlet fitting 1112b, 12l2 b. More particularly, the support frame 1143, 1243 of the cap portion 1106, 1206 includes a first inlet fitting 1112a, 12l2a, and the cap head 1142, 1242 includes a second inlet fitting 1112b, 1212 b. The first inlet nipple 1112a, 1212a extends upwardly away from the upper stop 1103, 1203, while the first inlet bore 1114a, 1214a extends through the first inlet nipple 1112a, 1212a and the upper stop 1103, 1203. The second inlet fitting 1112b, 1212b extends distally from the cap head 1142, 1242, and the second inlet bore 1114b, 1214b extends through the cap head 1142, 1242. The housing of the manifold 1100, 1200 also defines an accessory opening 1111, 1211 that leads to an accessory sleeve 1113, 1213. The accessory sleeves 1113, 1213 may be at least partially defined by an upper stop 1103, 1203, a lower stop 1122, 1222 and opposing side stops 1123, 1223 extending between the upper stop 1103, 1203 and the lower stop 1122, 1222. The accessory sleeves 1113, 2113 are in fluid communication with the manifold volume through apertures 1125, 1225.

The manifolds 1100, 1200 include trays 1176, 1276 that are configured to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeves 1113, 1213. The trays 1176, 1276 may be the same as previously described. Operation of the manifolds 1100, 1200 includes moving the manifolds 1100, 1200 between the sealed configuration and the vented configuration, as previously described.

As can be readily appreciated from fig. 65 and 66, the cap portion 1106 may be considered a "side load" and the cap portion 1206 may be considered a "front load"; that is, trays 1176, 1276 are loaded from the front and side of manifolds 1100, 1200, respectively. Fig. 67 and 68 are side views of the front load cap portion 1206. The cap portions 1106, 1206 include cap panels 1140, 1240 and cap heads 1142, 1242 coupled to the cap panels 1140, 1240. As shown in FIGS. 66 and 67, the cap panels 1140, 1240 are oriented in a first axis (A)₁) The above. The cap head 1142, 1242 includes the upper stop 1103, 1203 that at least partially defines the accessory sleeve 1113, 1213, as previously described. The upper stops 1103, 1203 are oriented with respect to a first axis (A)₁) A second axis (A) inclined at an angle₂) The above. As shown in fig. 62 and 63, perpendicular to the first axis (a)₁) Relative to the second axis (A)₂) The angles α, β. The angles α, β may be between about 10 degrees and 45 degrees, more particularly between about 20 degrees and 35 degrees, and even more particularly about 25 degrees. Thus, in configurations of the medical waste collection assembly 50 in which the void space 56 of the manifold receiver 54 is oriented at an angle, particularly the angle α, β, the orientation of the upper barrier 1103, 1203 relative to the cap panel 1140, 1240 (coupled to the body portion 1104, 1204 inserted within the void space 156) results in the upper barrier 1103, 1203 generally being the upper barrier 1103, 1103Is horizontal. Further, the accessory sleeves 1113, 1213 are similarly horizontal for ease of use to insert and remove the trays 1176, 1276 from the accessory sleeves 1113, 1213, respectively. Still further, the apertures (not identified) extending between the accessory sleeves 1113, 1213 and the manifold volume are oriented at an angle α, β to the horizontal, which helps prevent backflow of waste from the manifold volume to the accessory sleeves 1113, 1213. In other words, the waste is less likely to move from the manifold volume space to the accessory sleeves 1113, 1213 through the angled apertures 1125, 1225 against the force of gravity.

The side load cap portion 1106 of FIG. 65 is shown positioned at the assembly axis (A) in a proximal to distal direction_F) First inlet fitting 1112 a. More specifically, the first inlet fitting 1112a extends distally from the upper barrier 1103 near a distal one of the side portions 1125 that at least partially define the accessory sleeve 1113. The first inlet fitting 1112a may define a distal end of the manifold 1100. The accessory sleeve 1113 may be defined at a sleeve axis (A)_S) Up (considered as the in-out direction of fig. 67). Sleeve axis (A)_S) Can be aligned with the assembly axis (A)_F) Orthogonal such that the accessory sleeve 1113 is oriented in a side-to-side direction, thus, "side-loading" the cap portion 1106. When the cap portion 1106 is viewed from the front (see fig. 65), the accessory opening 1111 may be positioned on the right hand side and define a lateral end of the manifold 1100. Such an arrangement may be more convenient for a right-handed user to access the manifold 1100 from the front. Of course, it should be understood that an alternative configuration is contemplated in which the accessory opening 1111 is positioned on the left hand side. The cap portion 1106 may also include a second inlet fitting 11l2b, the second inlet fitting 1112b coupled to the cap panel 1140 and defining a second inlet bore 1114b, providing a bypass suction path from the second inlet bore 1114b to the manifold volume without passing through the accessory sleeve 1113.

The front load cap portion 1206 of fig. 67 and 68 is shown oriented in the vertical direction at the assembly axis (a)_F) The first inlet fitting 1212 a. More specifically, the first inlet fitting 1212a extends upwardly from an upper stop 1203 that at least partially defines the accessory sleeve 1113. Attached withElement sleeve 1213 may be defined by a sleeve axis (A)_S) And wherein the attachment opening 1211 defines a distal end of the manifold 1200. Sleeve axis (A)_S) Can be perpendicular to the assembly axis (A)_F) Such that the accessory sleeve 1213 is oriented in a proximal to distal direction, thus, "front loading" the cap portion 1206. The cap portion 1206 may also include a second inlet fitting 1212b coupled to the cap panel 1240 and defining a second inlet bore 1214b that provides a bypass suction path from the second inlet bore 1214b to the manifold volume without passing through the accessory sleeve 1213.

Complementary to the orientation of the upper barriers 1103, 1203 relative to the cap panels 1140, 1240 such that the upper barriers 1103, 1203 are generally horizontal during operation is the presence of the lenses 1196, 1296. As mentioned, it is desirable to visualize the tissue collection cavities 1182, 1282 during collection of the tissue sample. The quick visual confirmation provided to the user once the tissue sample is within the tissue collection cavity 1182, 1382 allows the user to move to any other aspect of the surgical procedure. The manifolds 1100, 1200 accommodate visualization to provide the user with an improved tissue collection experience. When the tray 1176, 1276 is within the accessory sleeve 1113, 1213, the tissue collection cavity 1182, 1282 of the tray 1176, 1276 is open to the upper baffle 1103, 1203. Lenses 1196, 1296 are provided on the upper barriers 1103, 1203 to provide magnification within the tissue collection chambers 1182, 1282, as shown in fig. 53-63. Lenses 1196, 1296 are elliptical, but other suitable geometries are contemplated. The lenses 1196, 1296 may be shaped to maximize visualization and magnify the tissue collection chambers 1182, 1282. Thus, the user scans across the manifolds 1100, 1200 from a reasonable distance and without undue manipulation of the manifolds 1100, 1200 to quickly determine whether a suitable tissue sample has been captured. It is contemplated that illumination may be provided to illuminate the tissue collection cavities 1182, 1282.

As mentioned above and as previously described, whether or not a tissue sample is collected, for example, using trays 176-. Access to the filter elements 216-716 may be desirable for a variety of reasons. In one example, the manifolds 100, 1100, 1200 are discreetly operated in a "bypass mode" when aspirating a desired tissue sample from a patient. Referring now to fig. 69-71, fig. 69 illustrates one of the embodiments of the manifold 500 previously described. Fig. 70 and 71 show the cap portion 506 of the manifold 500. 69-71 each manifold includes an access feature 1040 that enables access to the filter element 1016 within the body portion 1004. In a manner to be described, the access feature 1040 is configured to receive input from a user to permanently destroy the manifold, thereby providing access to the filter element 1016. It should be understood that the access feature 1040 may be included in any embodiment of the manifolds 100, 900, 1100, 1200 and compatible manifolds not described herein.

Referring to fig. 72, the body portion 1004 includes a proximal base 1026 and at least one side 1028 extending from the proximal base 1026. An outlet opening 1010 is defined in the proximal base 1026. The access feature 1040 may include a frangible boundary 942. A frangible boundary 942 in the form of an access feature 1040 shown in fig. 67 includes a thinned material disposed at an interface between the sides and the top portion of the side portion 1028 to define an at least partially separable portion 1046 of the side portion 1026. The access feature 1040 also includes a grip 1044. Fig. 72 shows that the grip 1044 includes a tab-like structure that defines a gap sized to receive at least one finger of a user. The user, for example, grasps the grip 1044 and peels off a portion 1046 of the side portion 1026, causing the frangible boundary 942 to break. The portion 1046 is peeled away to expose the filter element 1016 within the body portion 1004.

Fig. 73 illustrates a filter element 1016 well suited for use with the aforementioned access feature 1040. The filter element 1016 includes at least one side wall 1022 extending from the base wall 1020 to form a basket defining a cavity 1025. Fig. 73 shows opposing side walls 1022 separated by a top wall 1023 and a bottom wall 1025. The side wall 1022 may define a porous feature 1018, and in other forms the base wall 1020 may also define a porous feature 1018. The filter element 1016 defines a window 1050 extending through at least one of the side walls 1022. Fig. 73 shows that the window 1050 consumes almost the entire top wall 1023. When filter element 1016 is disposed within body portion 1004, window 1050 is aligned with access feature 1040, and in particular with separable portion 1046. Thus, after permanently destroying access feature 1040, such as peeling portion 1046 to expose filter element 1016, window 1050 is sized to allow retrieval of a tissue sample from within filter element 1016. In an example, forceps can be directed through the window 1050 into the cavity 1025 of the filter element 1016 to retrieve the tissue sample without removing the filter element 1016 from the body portion 1004.

Referring now to FIG. 70, another form of an access feature 1040 is shown. The access feature 1040 includes a frangible boundary 1042 that is at least a partially separable portion 1046, illustrated as a loop, coupled to the grip 1044. A user, for example, grasps the grip 1044 and peels the removable ring 1044 around the circumference of the body portion 1004 to break the interface between the cap portion 1006 and the body portion 1004. The cap portion 506 is disengaged from the body portion 1004 to expose the mouth 1024 of the filter element 1016 in communication with the cavity 1025. In an example, forceps can be directed through the mouthpiece 1024 into the cavity 1025 of the filter element 1016 to retrieve the tissue sample without removing the filter element 1016 from the body portion 1004.

Fig. 71 shows another form of the access feature 1040. The access feature 1040 of fig. 71 includes a closed perimeter of the frangible boundary 1024 to define a separable portion 1046. The closed perimeter may be entirely within one of the sidewalls 1028 of the body portion 1004. The access feature 1040 includes a grip 1044 coupled to the detachable portion 1026 (e.g., a loop). The user manipulates handle 1044 and tears open section 1046 of side 1026, causing frangible boundary 942 to break. The closed perimeter of frangible boundary 1024 can provide complete removal of separable portion 1026. A filter element similar to that of fig. 73 may be provided with a window 1050 aligned with the closed perimeter provided in the sidewall 1028. It should be appreciated that those discussed above as well as other access features may be on at least one of the body portion 1004 (as shown in fig. 69-71) and the cap portion 106.

Exemplary clauses

Clause 1-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: an inlet fitting adapted to receive a suction line and defining an inlet aperture; a housing adapted to be removably engaged with the manifold receiver and defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver to provide a suction path from the inlet aperture through the manifold volume to the suction inlet; a filter element disposed within the housing in the suction path; and a flow director defining a tissue collection chamber and a porous feature within the tissue collection chamber and a bypass channel separate from the tissue collection chamber and including a control surface adapted to receive input from a user to move the flow director between a tissue collection position in which the tissue collection chamber is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture with the porous feature in the aspiration path and the bypass channel is not in the aspiration path and a bypass position in which the bypass channel is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture in the aspiration path and the tissue collection chamber is not in the aspiration path.

Clause 2-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a housing adapted to removably engage with the manifold receiver and defining a manifold volume, wherein the housing includes an inlet fitting defining an inlet aperture and adapted to receive a suction line, and defines an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver to provide a suction path from the inlet aperture through the manifold volume to the suction inlet; a filter element disposed within the housing in the suction path; and a tray rotatably coupled to the housing and defining a plurality of tissue collection cavities and a porous feature within each tissue collection cavity, and including a control surface adapted to receive input from a user to rotate the tray about an axis to selectively align one of the tissue collection cavities with the inlet aperture such that the porous feature is positioned in the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 3-clause 2, wherein the tray further defines a bypass channel separate from the tissue collection cavity, wherein the tray is further adapted to rotate about the axis to selectively align the bypass channel with the inlet aperture to allow fluid to flow through the aspiration path without the tray collecting a tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 4-clause 3, wherein the bypass channel comprises a plurality of bypass channels, wherein the tissue collection cavities and the bypass channels are arranged in an angularly alternating manner about the axis.

The manifold of clause 5-clause 4, wherein the tissue collection cavity and the bypass channel are equiangularly spaced about the axis.

The manifold of clause 6-clause 2, wherein the tray further comprises a plurality of lenses circumferentially arranged about the control surface, wherein each of the lenses is aligned with one of the tissue collection cavities and each lens is shaped to provide magnification within one of the tissue collection cavities.

The manifold of clause 7-clause 2, wherein the housing further comprises a lens positioned to provide magnification within one of the tissue collection chambers.

The manifold of clause 8-clause 2, wherein the housing further comprises: a cap portion, and a body portion coupled to the cap portion, wherein the cap portion with the tray is positioned proximal to a panel of the cap portion.

The manifold of clause 9-clause 8, wherein one of the cap portion and the body portion comprises an orientation feature adapted to rotatably fix the cap portion relative to the body portion.

The manifold of clause 10-clause 8, wherein the cap portion comprises an opening, wherein the control surface is arranged to be manipulated through the opening.

The manifold of clause 11-clause 2, further comprising a carrier defining a void space sized to removably receive the tray, wherein the carrier is removably coupled to the housing.

Clause 12-the manifold of clause 2, wherein the housing further comprises: a bypass inlet fitting adapted to removably receive the suction line, wherein the bypass inlet fitting defines a fluid passage that bypasses the tray without being in fluid communication with the tissue collection cavity.

The manifold of clause 13-clause 1, wherein the housing further comprises: a cap portion including the inlet fitting, and a body portion coupled to the cap portion.

Clause 14-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a cap portion comprising a cap panel, and an inlet fitting adapted to receive a suction line and defining an inlet aperture; a body portion coupled to the cap portion and rotatably fixed relative to the cap portion to collectively define a manifold volume, wherein the body portion is adapted to removably engage with the manifold receiver and define an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the body portion is engaged with the manifold receiver to provide a suction path from the inlet aperture, through the manifold volume, to the suction inlet; at least partially disposing a filter element within the body portion in the suction path; and a tray disposed proximal to the cap panel of the cap portion and defining a plurality of tissue collection lumens and a porous feature within each tissue collection lumen, and a bypass channel separate from the tissue collection lumens, wherein the manifold is adapted to operate in a tissue collection position in which one of the tissue collection lumens is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture to place the porous feature in the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample, and a bypass position in which the bypass channel is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture in the aspiration path to allow fluid flow through the aspiration path without the tray collecting the tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 15-clause 14, wherein the tray is rotatably coupled to the housing and adapted to receive input from a user for rotation about an axis relative to the cap portion and the body portion to selectively switch the manifold between a tissue collection position and a bypass position.

The manifold of clause 16-clause 14, wherein the cap portion is removably coupled to the tray to provide access to the tissue collection chamber.

Clause 17-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, wherein the manifold includes a front portion and a rear portion, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume, comprising an inlet fitting on a front portion of the housing and defining an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume, wherein the inlet fitting is adapted to removably receive a suction line, and further defining an outlet opening on a rear portion of the housing adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of a medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver to provide a suction path from the inlet aperture through the manifold volume to the suction inlet; a filter element disposed within the housing in the suction path; the housing further defining an accessory socket in fluid communication with the manifold volume, wherein the accessory socket is oriented on an axis that is angled away from a longitudinal axis of the housing; and a tray adapted to be removably positioned within the accessory hub and defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature within the tissue collection cavity, the tissue collection cavity being open to a front of the manifold when the tray is within the accessory hub such that the porous feature is in the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 18-clause 17, wherein the housing further comprises a distal baffle at least partially defining the accessory sleeve, the distal baffle comprising a lens adapted to provide magnification within a tissue collection cavity when the tray is positioned within the accessory sleeve.

The manifold of clause 19-clause 17, wherein the tray further comprises a control surface adapted to receive input from a user, and a sealing surface adapted to sealingly engage the housing when the tray is positioned within the accessory sleeve.

The manifold of clauses 20-clause 17, wherein the accessory sleeve is oriented on an axis that is angled proximally away from the front of the housing.

The manifold of clause 21-clause 17, wherein the inlet aperture is oriented on an axis that is angled distally upward relative to a longitudinal axis of the housing.

The manifold of clause 22-clause 17, further comprising a valve coupled to the housing and positioned within the accessory sleeve.

The manifold of clause 23-clause 17, wherein the tray further comprises a retaining feature adapted to destructively engage a complementary retaining feature of the housing to facilitate retaining the tray within the accessory sleeve.

The manifold of clause 24-clause 17, wherein the housing further comprises: a body portion, wherein the filter element is at least partially disposed within the body portion; a cap portion coupled to the body portion and including the inlet fitting, and an access feature adapted to receive a user input to permanently destroy the manifold to access the filter element within the body portion.

The manifold of clause 25-clause 24, wherein the access feature further comprises a frangible boundary, and a grip portion coupled to the frangible boundary and adapted to receive input from a user to rupture the frangible boundary to access the filter element within the body portion.

The manifold of clause 26-clause 25, wherein the filter element comprises: at least one sidewall extending from the base wall; a porous feature extending through the sidewall; and a window extending through the sidewall, the window aligned with the access feature and sized to allow removal of a tissue sample from within the filter element after access to the filter element by permanently damaging the manifold.

Clause 27-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, wherein the manifold includes a front portion and a rear portion, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume, including an inlet fitting on a front portion of the housing and defining an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume, wherein the inlet fitting is adapted to removably receive a suction line, and further defining an outlet opening on a rear portion of the housing adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of a medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver to provide a suction path from the inlet aperture through the manifold volume to the suction inlet; a filter element disposed within the housing in the suction path; the housing further comprising a distal baffle defining an accessory sleeve in fluid communication with the manifold volume; a tray defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature within the tissue collection cavity, wherein the tray is adapted to be removably disposed within the accessory sleeve; and the distal baffle includes a lens shaped to provide magnification within the tissue collection cavity when the tray is placed within the accessory sleeve with the porous feature in the aspiration path to collect the tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 28-clause 27, wherein the accessory sleeve further comprises an orientation feature adapted to engage with a complementary orientation feature of the tray to position the tray within the accessory sleeve in a predetermined orientation relative to the distal flap.

Clause 29-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a cap portion comprising an inlet fitting adapted to receive a suction line; a body portion coupled to the cap portion to collectively define a manifold volume, wherein the body portion is adapted to be removably engaged with the manifold receiver and further defines an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the body portion is engaged with the manifold receiver to provide a suction path from the inlet fitting through the manifold volume to the suction inlet; and a filter element at least partially disposed within the body portion, in the suction path, wherein at least one of the body portion and the cap portion includes an access feature adapted to receive input from a user to permanently destroy the manifold such that access to the filter element is enabled.

The manifold of clause 30-clause 29, wherein the access feature further comprises a frangible boundary, and a grip coupled to the frangible boundary and adapted to receive input from a user to break the frangible boundary.

The manifold of clause 31-clause 30, wherein the frangible boundary is a removable ring coupled to one of the body portion and the cap portion and adapted to rupture an interface between the cap portion and the body portion.

The manifold of clause 32-clause 30, wherein the frangible boundary further comprises a closed perimeter within the body portion formed from the thinned material such that the frangible boundary ruptures along the closed perimeter.

The manifold of clause 33-clause 29, wherein the filter element comprises at least one sidewall extending from the base wall, a porous feature extending through the at least one sidewall, and a window extending through the sidewall, the window aligned with the access feature and sized to remove a tissue sample from within the filter element after permanently damaging the manifold to access the filter element.

The manifold of clause 34-clause 29, further comprising a tray adapted to be removably coupled to the manifold and defining a tissue collection chamber and a porous feature within the tissue collection chamber, the porous feature adapted to collect a tissue sample when the tray is positioned in the aspiration path.

Clause 35-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a housing adapted to be removably engaged with a manifold receiver, the housing defining a manifold volume space, an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged within the manifold receiver, and a bypass channel, wherein the housing includes a support frame defining an accessory sleeve separate from the bypass channel; a filter element disposed within the housing; a tray defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature within the tissue collection cavity, wherein the tray is sized to be removably disposed within the accessory sleeve of the support frame; and a slide member adapted to be slidably coupled to the support frame and including an inlet fitting defining an inlet aperture and adapted to removably receive the aspiration line, wherein the slide member includes a control surface adapted to receive input from a user to move the slide member between a tissue collection position, in which the inlet aperture of the inlet fitting is in fluid communication with the tissue collection lumen, and a bypass position, in which the inlet aperture of the inlet fitting is in fluid communication to allow fluid to flow through the aspiration path without the tray collecting the tissue sample, when the tray is placed within the accessory sleeve with the porous feature in the aspiration path to collect the tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 36-clause 35, wherein the sliding member further comprises a lens shaped to provide magnification within the tissue collection chamber when the tray is placed within the accessory sleeve and the sliding member is in the tissue collection position.

Clause 37-the manifold of clause 35, wherein the support frame further comprises opposing sides separated by a front side, wherein the accessory sleeve extends inwardly from one of the opposing sides, and the bypass channel extends inwardly from the front side.

The manifold of clause 38-clause 35, wherein the sliding member further comprises a guide rail feature adapted to engage a complementary guide rail feature of the support frame to limit movement of the sliding member relative to the support frame to one degree of freedom.

The manifold of clause 39-clause 35, wherein the tray further comprises a front wall opposite the back wall and separated by opposite side walls, and a base comprising the porous feature, the front wall comprising a cutout adapted to align with the inlet aperture of the inlet fitting when the sliding member is in the tissue collection position.

The manifold of clause 40-clause 39, wherein the base of the tray further comprises an inclined surface that slopes upward toward the back wall.

Clause 41-a method of collecting a tissue sample with a manifold for a medical waste collection assembly, the manifold including a housing defining a manifold volume space, an outlet opening and a support frame defining an accessory sleeve and a bypass channel separate from the accessory sleeve, the manifold further including a filter element disposed within the housing, a slide member slidably coupled to the support frame and including an inlet fitting defining an inlet aperture, and a tray positionable within a tissue collection chamber and defining a tissue collection chamber and a porous feature within the tissue collection chamber, the method comprising the steps of: coupling the manifold to the medical waste collection assembly such that the outlet opening is in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly; coupling a suction line to the inlet fitting; operating the medical waste collection assembly with the slide member in a bypass position in which the inlet aperture of the inlet fitting is in fluid communication with the bypass channel, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the aspiration path without the tray collecting the tissue sample; applying an input to the control surface to move the sliding member from the bypass position to a tissue collection position in which the inlet aperture of the inlet fitting is in fluid communication with the tissue collection chamber to locate the porous feature in the aspiration path; and operating the medical waste collection assembly with the sliding member in the tissue collection position to collect the tissue sample.

Clause 42-the method of clause 41, further comprising applying another input to the control surface to return the sliding member to the bypass position.

The method of clause 43-clause 41, wherein the sliding member further comprises a lens shaped to provide magnification, the method further comprising viewing the tissue collection chamber through the lens when the sliding member is in the tissue collection position.

The method of clause 44-clause 41, further comprising removing the tray from the accessory sleeve with the slide member in the bypass position.

Clause 45-the method of clause 44, further comprising replacing another tray within the accessory sleeve of the slide member with the slide member in the bypass position.

Clause 46-the method of clause 41, wherein the step of applying the input to the control surface to move the sliding member to the tissue collection position further comprises applying a lateral force in the first linear direction to the control surface.

The method of clause 47-clause 45, further comprising applying another lateral force to the control surface in a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction to return the sliding member to the bypass position.

Clause 48-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a housing adapted to removably engage with the manifold receiver and define a manifold volume, wherein the housing includes a stator including an inlet fitting adapted to receive a suction line and define an inlet aperture, and the housing defines an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver to provide a suction path from the inlet aperture through the manifold volume to the suction inlet; a filter element disposed within the housing in the suction path; and a rotor rotatably disposed within the stator and defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature within the tissue collection cavity, and including a control surface adapted to receive input from a user to rotate the rotor within the stator to selectively establish fluid communication between the inlet aperture and the tissue collection cavity to position the porous feature in the aspiration path to collect a tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 49-clause 48, wherein the rotor further defines a bypass channel separate from the tissue collection cavity, the control surface further adapted to receive input from a user to rotate the rotor within the stator to selectively establish fluid communication between the inlet aperture and the bypass channel to flow fluid through the aspiration path without collecting a tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 50-clause 48, wherein the stator further comprises a sidewall defining a window positioned such that the tissue collection chamber is aligned with the window when the bypass channel of the rotor is in the suction path.

The manifold of clause 51-clause 50, wherein the sidewall of the stator further comprises a lens shaped to provide magnification and positioned to align with the lens when the tissue collection cavity is in the aspiration path.

The manifold of clause 52-clause 48, wherein the rotor further comprises a cylindrical outer wall, wherein the tissue collection chamber and the bypass channel are both defined between two openings in the outer wall.

Clause 53-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a housing adapted to removably engage with the manifold receiver and defining a manifold volume, wherein the housing comprises a stator, an inlet fitting adapted to receive a suction line and define an inlet aperture extending through the stator, and the housing defines an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver; and a rotor rotatably disposed within the stator and defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature within the tissue collection cavity adapted to collect a tissue sample, and a bypass channel separate from the tissue collection cavity, wherein the manifold is adapted to operate in one of a tissue collection position in which the tissue collection cavity is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture such that the porous feature is in the aspiration path to collect the tissue sample, and a bypass position in which the bypass channel is in fluid communication with the inlet aperture such that fluid is allowed to flow through the aspiration path without collecting the tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 54-clause 53, wherein the rotor comprises an outer wall, wherein the tissue collection cavity and the bypass channel are each defined between two openings in the sidewall.

The manifold of clause 55-clause 53, wherein the rotor further comprises a control surface adapted to receive input from a user to switch the manifold to be operated between the tissue collection position and the bypass position.

Clause 56-the manifold of clause 53, wherein the stator further comprises a sidewall defining a window positioned to align with and expose the tissue collection cavity to allow retrieval of a tissue sample when the manifold is operated in a bypass position.

The manifold of clause 57-clause 53, wherein the stator further comprises a lens shaped to provide magnification and positioned to align with the tissue collection cavity when the manifold is operated in the tissue collection position.

Clause 58-a method of collecting a tissue sample using a manifold for a medical waste collection assembly, wherein the manifold comprises a housing defining a manifold volume, an outlet opening, and a stator and an inlet fitting, the manifold further comprising a filter element disposed within the housing, and a rotor rotatably disposed within the stator and comprising a control surface, the method comprising the steps of: coupling the housing to the medical waste collection assembly such that the outlet opening is in fluid communication with the suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly; coupling a suction line to the inlet fitting to provide a suction path from the inlet aperture of the inlet fitting to the suction inlet; operating the medical waste collection assembly with the manifold in a bypass position in which a bypass channel defined within the rotor is in the aspiration path and a tissue collection lumen defined within the rotor is not in the aspiration path; actuating the control surface to rotate the rotor within the stator from a bypass position to a tissue collection position in which the tissue collection lumen is in the aspiration path and the bypass channel is removed from the aspiration path; and operating the medical waste collection assembly with the manifold in the tissue collection position to collect a tissue sample using the porous feature of the tissue collection chamber.

Clause 59-the method of clause 58, further comprising actuating the control surface to return the rotor to the bypass position after collecting the tissue sample.

The method of clause 60-clause 59, further comprising retrieving the tissue sample from the tissue collection chamber while the rotor is in the bypass position.

The method of clause 61-clause 59, wherein the stator comprises a sidewall defining a window, wherein the step of actuating the control surface to return the rotor to the bypass position further comprises aligning the tissue collection cavity with the window of the stator to expose the tissue collection cavity; and removing the tissue sample from the exposed tissue collection cavity through the window of the stator.

Clause 62-the method of clause 58, wherein the stator further comprises a lens shaped to provide magnification, the method further comprising: viewing the tissue collection cavity through the lens when the rotor is in the tissue collection position.

The method of clause 63-clause 60, wherein the step of removing the tissue sample from the tissue collection cavity further comprises scraping the porous feature with an instrument to dislodge the tissue sample.

The method of clause 64-clause 59, wherein the step of actuating the control surface to move the rotor from the bypass position to the tissue collection position further comprises rotating the control surface in a first rotational direction.

The method of clause 65-clause 64, wherein the step of actuating the control surface to return the rotor to the bypass position further comprises rotating the control surface in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

Clause 66-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a housing adapted to removably engage the manifold receiver and defining a manifold volume, an accessory hub in fluid communication with the manifold volume, a tissue collection channel, a bypass channel separate from the tissue collection channel, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver; a filter element disposed within the housing; and an inlet fitting rotatable relative to the housing and adapted to receive a suction line and defining an inlet aperture; a tray adapted to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve and defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature in communication with the tissue collection channel when the tray is positioned within the accessory sleeve; and a control surface adapted to receive input from a user to rotate the inlet fitting between a tissue collection configuration in which the inlet aperture is in communication with the tissue collection channel and a bypass configuration in which the inlet aperture is in communication with the bypass channel when the tray is positioned within the accessory hub.

The manifold of clause 67-clause 66, wherein the housing further comprises a lens positioned to provide magnification within the tissue collection chamber.

The manifold of clause 68-clause 66, wherein the housing further defines a second appendage sleeve in fluid communication with the manifold volume, the manifold further comprising a second tray removably positioned within the second appendage sleeve and defining a second tissue collection cavity and a second porous feature.

The manifold of clauses 69-clause 68, wherein the first and second accessory sleeves are diametrically opposed with respect to the housing.

The manifold of clause 70-clause 66, wherein the housing further comprises: a bypass inlet fitting adapted to removably receive another suction line, the bypass inlet fitting defining a fluid passage that bypasses the tray and is not in fluid communication with the tissue collection cavity.

Clause 71-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a housing adapted to removably engage with the manifold receiver and defining a manifold volume and an outlet opening, the outlet adapted to be in fluid communication with the suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver; a filter element disposed within the housing; and a first inlet fitting movable relative to the housing and adapted to receive a first suction line and define a first inlet aperture; a second inlet fitting fixed relative to the housing and adapted to receive the first suction line and defining a first inlet aperture, wherein each of the first and second inlet apertures is in fluid communication with the manifold volume; a tray adapted to be removably coupled to the housing, defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature in communication with the tissue collection channel when the tray is positioned within the accessory sleeve; and a control surface adapted to receive input from a user to move the first inlet fitting between a tissue collection configuration in which the first inlet aperture is in communication with the porous feature and a bypass configuration in which the first inlet aperture is not in communication with the porous feature when the tray is positioned within the accessory sleeve.

Clause 72-the manifold of clause 71, wherein the second inlet aperture is not in fluid communication with the tissue collection chamber in the tissue collection configuration.

The manifold of clause 73-clause 71, wherein the housing further defines an accessory sleeve in fluid communication with the manifold volume, wherein the tray is configured to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve.

Clause 74-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample using a medical waste collection assembly including a manifold receiver and a suction inlet, the manifold comprising: a housing adapted to removably engage with a manifold receiver and defining a manifold volume, an aperture, a bypass opening separate from the aperture, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction inlet of the medical waste collection assembly when the housing is engaged with the manifold receiver; a filter element disposed within the housing; a first inlet fitting rotatable relative to the housing and adapted to receive a first suction line and defining a first inlet aperture; a second inlet fitting rotatable relative to the housing and adapted to receive a second suction line and defining a second inlet aperture; a control surface adapted to receive input from a user to rotate the first and second inlet fittings between a tissue collection configuration in which the first inlet aperture is in communication with the aperture and the second inlet aperture is in communication with one of the bypass openings, and a bypass configuration in which the first inlet aperture and the second inlet aperture are each in communication with a separate one of the bypass openings.

The manifold of clause 75-clause 74, wherein the housing further defines an accessory sleeve in communication with the manifold volume, wherein the tray is configured to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve.

The manifold of clause 76-clause 75, wherein the tissue collection cavity of the tray is in communication with the aperture.

The manifold of clause 77-clause 66, wherein the housing further comprises an orientation feature within the accessory sleeve, and the tray further comprises a complementary orientation feature configured to removably engage the orientation feature to allow the tray to be coupled with the housing in a single orientation.

The manifold of clause 78-clause 77, wherein the orientation feature of the housing is a projection and the complementary orientation feature of the tray is a rail extending from the side portion and configured to movably engage the projection.

Clause 79-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample through an aspiration line, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet bore in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with the suction line, an accessory sleeve in fluid communication with the manifold volume, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a suction path from a suction line through the accessory sleeve and the manifold volume to the outlet opening; a filter element disposed within the housing in the suction path; a tray defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature within the tissue collection cavity, wherein the tray is adapted to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve, and the porous feature in the aspiration path is used to collect a tissue sample; and an anti-drainback valve positioned in the suction path between the tray and the filter element.

The manifold of clause 80-clause 79, wherein the housing further defines a delivery bore having a first end open to the accessory sleeve and a second end open to the manifold volume, wherein the anti-backflow valve selectively covers the second end of the delivery bore to allow waste to flow from the accessory opening to the manifold volume.

The manifold of clause 81-clause 80, wherein the housing further defines a bypass bore in fluid communication with the outlet opening, bypassing the accessory sleeve to provide a bypass suction path from the bypass bore through the manifold volume to the outlet opening, wherein the anti-drainback valve selectively covers the second end of the delivery bore and an end of the bypass bore.

The manifold of clause 82-clause 81, wherein the anti-drainback valve is a flapper valve unit.

The manifold of clause 83-clause 82, wherein the flapper valve unit comprises a first flapper selectively covering a second end of the feed hole and a second flapper selectively covering the end of the bypass hole.

The manifold of clause 84-clause 81, wherein the shell further comprises a cap portion and a body portion coupled to the cap portion, wherein the cap portion comprises a cap panel that at least partially defines a manifold volume space with the body portion, wherein the delivery holes extend through the cap panel and the anti-backflow valve is coupled to the cap panel.

The manifold of clause 85-clause 84, wherein the housing further comprises a bypass fitting defining a bypass aperture and adapted to receive another suction line, wherein the bypass fitting is coupled to the cap panel.

Clause 86-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample through an aspiration line, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet bore in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction line, an accessory sleeve in fluid communication with the manifold volume, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a suction path from the suction line through the accessory sleeve and the manifold volume to the outlet opening, wherein the housing comprises a body portion, and a cap portion coupled to the body portion and at least partially defining the manifold volume, wherein the cap portion comprises a cap panel oriented on a first axis, and an upper stop coupled to the cap panel and at least partially defining the accessory sleeve, wherein the upper stop is oriented on a second axis that is angularly inclined relative to the first axis; and a tray defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature within the tissue collection cavity, the tray adapted to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve and the porous feature in the aspiration path for collecting a tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 87-clause 86, further comprising a lens coupled to the upper barrier and shaped to provide magnification within the accessory sleeve.

The manifold of clause 88-clause 86, further comprising a filter element disposed within the manifold volume and in the suction path.

The manifold of clause 89-clause 86, wherein the housing further defines an appendage opening leading to the appendage sleeve, the appendage opening defining a distal end of the manifold such that the appendage sleeve is oriented in a proximal-to-distal direction.

The manifold of clauses 90-clause 89, wherein the housing further comprises an inlet fitting defining the inlet aperture, the inlet fitting sized to receive the suction line, wherein the inlet fitting is coupled to and extends upwardly from the upper barrier.

The manifold of clause 91-clause 86, wherein the housing further defines an accessory opening to the accessory sleeve, the accessory opening defining a lateral end of the manifold such that the accessory sleeve is oriented in a side-to-side direction.

The manifold of clause 92-clause 91, wherein the housing further comprises an inlet fitting defining the inlet aperture, the inlet fitting sized to receive the suction line, wherein the inlet fitting is coupled to and extends distally from the upper barrier to define a distal end of the manifold.

The manifold of clause 93-clause 86, wherein the housing further defines a bypass fitting coupled to the cap panel and defining a bypass bore in fluid communication with the outlet opening, bypassing the accessory sleeve to provide a bypass suction path from the bypass bore through the manifold volume space to the outlet opening.

Clause 94-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample through an aspiration line, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet bore in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction line, an accessory hub in fluid communication with the manifold volume, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a suction path from the suction line through the accessory hub and the manifold volume to the outlet opening, wherein the housing includes an inlet fitting defining the inlet bore, wherein the inlet fitting is oriented on a first axis in a proximal to distal direction, and wherein the accessory hub is disposed about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis such that the accessory hub is oriented in a side to side direction; and a tray defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature within the tissue collection cavity, the tray adapted to be removably positioned within the accessory sleeve, and the porous feature in the aspiration path for collecting a tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 95-clause 94, further comprising a filter element disposed within the housing in the suction path.

Clause 96-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample through an aspiration line, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with the suction line, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a suction path from the suction line through the manifold volume to the outlet opening; a tray defining a tissue collection cavity and a porous feature in communication with the tissue collection cavity, the tray adapted to be removably coupled with the housing; and a filter element disposed within the housing in the suction path, wherein the housing includes a cap portion and a body portion that are removably coupled to one another such that the filter element is accessible to retrieve a tissue sample.

The manifold of clause 97-clause 96, wherein each of the cap portion and the body portion comprises complementary coupling features for removably coupling the cap portion and the body portion.

The manifold of clause 98-clause 97, wherein the complementary coupling features comprise at least one key and at least one keyway configured to removably engage one another via an interference engagement.

The manifold of clause 99-clause 98, wherein the at least one key and the at least one keyway comprise three keys and three keyways.

The manifold of clause 100-clause 98, wherein the at least one keyway comprises an insert portion and a locking portion in communication with the insert portion, wherein the insert portion is wider than the locking portion.

Clause 101-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample through an aspiration line, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet bore in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction line, an accessory opening to an accessory hub in fluid communication with the manifold volume, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a first suction path from the suction line through the accessory hub and the manifold volume to the outlet opening, wherein the housing includes a locating feature disposed within the accessory hub; and a tray including a control surface, a sealing surface coupled to the control surface, a base portion, and a side portion coupled to the base portion, wherein the base portion and the side portion extend from the sealing surface and define a tissue collection cavity, and a porous feature in the base portion, wherein the control surface of the tray is adapted to receive input from a user to move the sealing surface away from a portion of the appendage opening adjacent the lower barrier to provide and position a second suction path from the appendage opening to the outlet opening through a gap between the base portion of the tray and the lower barrier of the housing defining the appendage sleeve.

Clause 102-a manifold for collecting a tissue sample through an aspiration line, the manifold comprising: a housing defining a manifold volume, an inlet aperture in fluid communication with the manifold volume and adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction line, an accessory opening to an accessory hub in fluid communication with the manifold volume, and an outlet opening adapted to be in fluid communication with a suction source to provide a first suction path from the suction line through the accessory hub and the manifold volume to the outlet opening, wherein the housing includes a locating feature disposed within the accessory hub; and a tray comprising a sealing surface, a base portion, and a side portion coupled to the base portion, wherein the base portion and the side portion extend from the sealing surface and define a tissue collection cavity, and a porous feature is within the base portion, wherein the tray is adapted to be removably coupled with the housing such that (i) the sealing surface seals the accessory opening, (ii) the tissue collection cavity is positioned within the accessory sleeve and opens toward the inlet aperture, and (iii) the base portion and/or the side portion engages a positioning feature within the accessory sleeve to provide a gap between the base portion of the tray and an under-housing barrier defining the accessory sleeve.

The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to any precise form. The terminology that has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching and the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.