ENDOSCOPE PRESSURE EQUALIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD

摘要

A pressure equalization device connects to a port on an endoscope and equalizes the pressure within the endoscope to an environment thereabout. An outlet check valve allows flow out of the port and blocks flow into the port . A filter may be provided for preventing known chemical agents from entering th e port. If the agent is hydrogen peroxide, the filter preferably comprises a catalyst, such as copper wool, for decomposing the hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. An inlet check valve may also be provided to communicate with th e endoscope port and allow flow into the port in response to a downstream pressure gradient exceeding a predetermined value.