Fluid connection system for endoscope reprocessing with controlled leakage

Abstract

A fluid disinfection or sterilization system includes spray nozzles ( ) for spraying an anti-microbial fluid on the exterior of an endoscope ( ) supported in a microbial decontamination chamber ( ). The endoscope includes interior lumens which are microbially decontaminated by flowing anti-microbial fluid from outlets ( ) through the lumens. A port ( ) is connected with a leak detector. In order to ensure that the proper leak detector and anti-microbial fluid ports of the disinfection or sterilization system are interconnected with the proper lumen ports of the endoscope, a tethered connection assembly ( ) is provided. The tethered interconnection assembly includes fittings ( ) which are uniquely configured for interconnection with an appropriate one of a high pressure port, a low pressure port, and the leak detector port. Fittings at the other end of the tube assemblies ( ) are configured for interconnection with appropriate corresponding ports of the endoscope. The tube assemblies ( ) are interconnected by a tether ( ) to which plurality of plugs ( ) for plugging appropriate ports of the endoscope are also connected. A tag ( ) identifies the model(s) of endoscope that the tethered connection assembly is to be used with and provides a diagram showing the proper interconnection pattern.