Aspirators

An aspirator comprising a tube operatively connectable, in use, via a first one-way valve, to an inlet of a three-way connector, the first one-way valve being configured to permit, in use, one-way flow of a fluid from the tube into the three-way connector;

• wherein the three-way connector additionally comprises a first outlet operatively connectable, in use, to a receptacle, via a second one-way valve adapted to permit, in use, the one-way flow of a fluid from the three-way interconnector into the receptacle;
• and wherein the three-way connector further comprises a second outlet operatively connectable, in use, to a syringe, and wherein the receptacle comprises a vent aperture and a porous or perforated element overlying the vent aperture.

The valve assembly or aspirator of any preceding claim, wherein the receptacle comprises a hollow interior portion for containing a quantity of aspirated liquid.

The valve assembly or aspirator of any preceding claim, wherein the porous or perforated element internally overlies the vent aperture and is configured to close the vent aperture when wetted by a liquid.

The valve assembly or aspirator of any preceding claim, wherein the porous or perforated element is manufactured of paper.

The valve assembly or aspirator of any preceding claim, wherein the receptacle comprises a viewing window.

The valve assembly or aspirator of any preceding claim, wherein the receptacle is at least partially manufactured from a transparent material.

The valve assembly or aspirator of any preceding claim, wherein the inlet and outlets of the three-way connector comprise releasable connectors.

The valve assembly or aspirator of any preceding claim, wherein the three-way connector is formed as a T-junction connector, the inlet and second outlet being located at opposite ends of the straight-through portion of the T-junction connector and the first outlet comprising the side spur of the T-junction.

A valve assembly or aspirator substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to, and as illustrated in, FIGS. 2 to 6 of the accompanying drawings.