Filter medium compression system for smoke evacuation

A replaceable filter for processing smoke derived from electrosurgery, the replaceable filter comprising:

• a filter body;
• a front cap associated with a first end of the filter body;
• a back cap associated with a second end of the filter body, the back configured to receive suction;
• one or more particulate filters disposed within the filter body between the front cap and the back cap;
• a compressed carbon reservoir disposed within the filter body between the one or more particulate filters and the back cap;
• and
• a flexible porous barrier disposed on at least a first side of the compressed carbon reservoir.

A three-stage filter for processing smoke derived from electrosurgery, the three-stage filter comprising:

• a first stage, wherein the first stage removes one or more fluids;
• a second stage, wherein the second stage removes particulates;
• and
• a third stage comprising a compressed carbon reservoir.