Fluid removal in a surgical access device

摘要

The present invention generally provides methods and devices for removing fluid from a surgical instrument. Surgical access devices and seal systems are generally provided having one or more valves or seal assemblies to create a closed system between the outside environment and the environment in which the surgical access device is being inserted. In one embodiment, a seal assembly is provided and can include a seal having an opening configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough and a fluid remover in the form of a sorbent element, a scraper element, a wicking element, or any combination thereof can be associated with the seal and configured to remove fluid from the opening and/or a surgical instrument.

主权项

1. A seal assembly for use in a surgical access device, comprising:
a seal including a proximal flange having a sidewall extending distally therefrom, the seal being selectively movable between an open position when an instrument is disposed therethrough and a sealed closed position when no instrument is disposed therethrough; and a fluid remover positioned distal to a distal end of the seal, the fluid remover comprising
a substantially planar scraper having an opening formed therethrough, the scraper being configured to remove fluid from a surgical instrument passed through the opening, and the opening being configured to allow air to pass therethrough when no instrument is disposed therein, anda sorbent element positioned distal of the scraper for sorbing fluid removed from a surgical instrument by the scraper.