The present invention provides a clamp (10) for clamp for retaining a medical device in a medical apparatus. The clamp (10) includes a pair of opposed gripping elements (16). At least one of the gripping elements is substantially rotatably moveable to grip and apply a compressive force on a portion of the medical device when the portion it is placed between the gripping elements. The compressive force increases when the at least one of the gripping elements rotates in one direction and reduces when it rotates in an opposite direction.
A sealingly engageable closure for a bottle, including a vent component including a material permeable to vapor such that vapor is vented from the interior of said bottle and a body supporting the vent component, wherein at least a portion of the material is located within a distance from a top portion of the closure. In an embodiment, the sealingly engageable closure for the bottle closes the bottle, trapping a liquid, such as hydrogen peroxide, in the bottle.
B65D 51/16 - Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas
B65D 51/18 - Arrangements of closures with protective outer cap-like covers or of two or more co-operating closures
B65D 47/06 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages
Presented herein are techniques for using modified water that facilitate the cleaning of device lumens. The modified water is used to create a chemical action that may act to reduce adhesion between contaminants and a surface of the device lumens. A contaminant detaching cleaning action is used in conjunction with the chemical action to separate the contaminants from the surface of the device lumens to facilitate removal of the contaminants from the device lumens.
A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
B08B 9/032 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
Presented herein are techniques for surface-finishing (e.g., smoothing/polishing) of the interior surface of device channels with a polishing liquid-powder suspension. The polishing liquid-powder suspension is apportioned, and a flow of fluid is applied to an apportioned amount of the polishing liquid-powder suspension to push the apportioned amount of the polishing liquid-powder suspension through a device channel to surface-finish an interior surface.
B24C 3/32 - Abrasive blasting machines or devicesPlants designed for abrasive blasting of particular work, e.g. the internal surfaces of cylinder blocks
A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
B24B 29/08 - Machines or devices for polishing surfaces on work by means of tools made of soft or flexible material with or without the application of solid or liquid polishing agents designed for particular workpieces for elongated workpieces having uniform cross-section in one main direction the cross-section being circular, e.g. tubes, wires, needles
B24B 31/00 - Machines or devices designed for polishing or abrading surfaces on work by means of tumbling apparatus or other apparatus in which the work or the abrasive material is looseAccessories therefor
B24B 49/00 - Measuring or gauging equipment for controlling the feed movement of the grinding tool or workArrangements of indicating or measuring equipment, e.g. for indicating the start of the grinding operation
B24B 49/04 - Measuring or gauging equipment for controlling the feed movement of the grinding tool or workArrangements of indicating or measuring equipment, e.g. for indicating the start of the grinding operation according to the instantaneous size and required size of the workpiece acted upon, the measuring or gauging being continuous or intermittent involving measurement of the workpiece at the place of grinding during grinding operation
B24B 49/12 - Measuring or gauging equipment for controlling the feed movement of the grinding tool or workArrangements of indicating or measuring equipment, e.g. for indicating the start of the grinding operation involving optical means
B24B 57/02 - Devices for feeding, applying, grading or recovering grinding, polishing or lapping agents for feeding of fluid, sprayed, pulverised, or liquefied grinding, polishing or lapping agents
B24C 1/08 - Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effectsUse of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods for polishing surfaces, e.g. by making use of liquid-borne abrasives
B24C 3/04 - Abrasive blasting machines or devicesPlants characterised by the arrangement of the component assemblies with respect to each other stationary
B24C 7/00 - Equipment for feeding abrasive materialControlling the flowability, constitution, or other physical characteristics of abrasive blasts
B24C 11/00 - Selection of abrasive materials for abrasive blasts
C09G 1/02 - Polishing compositions containing abrasives or grinding agents
A method includes directing a disinfectant flow across at least one portion of a medical device to clean the at least one portion of the medical and flowing the disinfectant through a cellular catalyst member to remediate the disinfectant. The cellular catalyst member includes pores that form flow paths for the disinfectant.
A62D 3/30 - Processes for making harmful chemical substances harmless, or less harmful, by effecting a chemical change in the substances by reacting with chemical agents
A62D 101/28 - Organic substances containing oxygen, sulfur, selenium or tellurium, i.e. chalcogen
A method includes introducing a flow of a cleaning fluid into an endoscope at a medial section of a lumen of the endoscope and directing the flow of the cleaning fluid from the medial section toward one of a proximal end or a distal end of the lumen to clean the lumen.
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
A61L 2/16 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor using chemical substances
B08B 9/032 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
B08B 9/04 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages using cleaning devices introduced into and moved along the pipes
10.
A DEVICE FOR RETAINING AN OBJECT IN A STERILIZATION/DISINFECTION APPARATUS
A device for retaining a medical apparatus in a sterilisation or disinfection apparatus, said device comprising a closed cradle configured to fully encircle a portion of said medical apparatus when in use, the cradle having a medical apparatus-facing side comprising a plurality of projections for contact with the medical apparatus, and a cradle support configured to interface with the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus and retain the cradle within the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus during the operation of the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus.
Provided are multi-cyclic methods for simulating the deposition of stable biofilms on the inner walls of small to medium inner diameter lumens found in medical devices such as endoscopes. Multiple embodiments, including four- and two-cycle versions of the cyclic build- up biofilm (CBB) model were developed for depositing tough and stable bacterial biofilms in the lumens having relatively small or medium sized internal diameters (≤ 2.5 mm ID). The resulting stable biofilms resemble the difficult to remove biofilms found in small lumened medical devices and provide a reliable model for simulating build-up that takes place over time in clinical settings. The CBB model also may be applicable to larger-lumened medical devices. Also provided are methods of cleaning such biofilms from lumens.
C12N 11/04 - Enzymes or microbial cells immobilised on or in an organic carrier entrapped within the carrier, e.g. gel or hollow fibres
G01N 11/04 - Investigating flow properties of materials, e.g. viscosity or plasticityAnalysing materials by determining flow properties by measuring flow of the material through a restricted passage, e.g. tube, aperture
Cleaning fluid is delivered through a lumen during a channel cleaning process, and a vibration measurement is obtained while the cleaning fluid passes through the lumen. The vibration measurement is indicative of an interaction between the cleaning fluid and the lumen and is used to characterize a cleaning efficacy of the channel cleaning process.
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
B08B 9/032 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
G01N 29/028 - Analysing fluids by measuring mechanical or acoustic impedance
A pinch valve subassembly includes a cage and a diaphragm disposed within the cage. The diaphragm is configured to sealingly engage the cage. Additionally, the cage includes an opening configured to receive a fluid flow and direct the fluid flow against the diaphragm via the opening to compress the diaphragm and transition the pinch valve subassembly to a closed configuration. The pinch valve subassembly is configured to be disposed within a cavity of a housing in an installed configuration, and the pinch valve subassembly includes a seal surrounding the cage and configured to sealingly engage the housing in the installed configuration.
F16K 7/07 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage with tubular diaphragm constrictable by external radial force by means of fluid pressure
F16J 15/32 - Sealings between relatively-moving surfaces with elastic sealings, e.g. O-rings
F16J 15/52 - Sealings between relatively-movable members, by means of a sealing without relatively-moving surfaces, e.g. fluid-tight sealings for transmitting motion through a wall by means of sealing bellows or diaphragms
F16K 31/126 - Operating meansReleasing devices actuated by fluid the fluid acting on a diaphragm, bellows, or the like
Presented herein are techniques to manage a fluidic effluent being discharged in relation to a lumen cleaning process. More specifically, in accordance with certain embodiments presented, an effluent management accessory (EMA) is provided substantially separate gas portions from non-gas (e.g., liquid and/or solid) portions of the fluidic effluent discharged in association with, for example, a lumen cleaning process; the separated portions can each then be disposed with appropriately.
B08B 9/032 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
A61B 1/015 - Control of fluid supply or evacuation
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
A61M 39/12 - Tube connectors or tube couplings for joining a flexible tube to a rigid attachment
B01D 39/00 - Filtering material for liquid or gaseous fluids
B08B 3/04 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid
C02F 1/38 - Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by centrifugal separation
15.
FLUID-BASED POWDER CONVEYANCE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MEDICAL DEVICE CLEANING AND/OR LUMEN CLEANING
Systems and methods that integrate fluid-based powder conveyance for cleaning articles, including lumens and medical devices are presented. For example, a method of cleaning an article comprises a step of flowing a first fluid comprising a cleaning agent to a chamber. Flowing the first fluid comprising the cleaning agent to the chamber creates a pressure differential across a filter fluidly coupled to the chamber. When a pressure differential reaches a threshold, indicating that the cleaning agent has been accurately metered, flow of the first fluid comprising the cleaning agent is stopped. Next, flowing a second fluid through the chamber conveys the cleaning agent to an article, e.g., through a lumen of a medical or culinary device, thereby cleaning the article.
Systems and methods for identifying a fluidic configuration of a medical device having at least one lumen, identifying at least one lumen of a medical device, evaluating the integrity of a lumen of a medical device, and reprocessing a lumen of a medical device are presented. For example, these methods include flowing a fluid comprising a known specific gravity through the lumen, measuring the flow rate and/or pressure differential of the fluid being flowed through the lumen, and computing the flow coefficient of the lumen. The flow rate, pressure differential and/or computed flow coefficient may then be compared to known parameters for medical devices and their respective lumens to identify the medical device, each lumen, detect any faults, and/or irrigate the lumen with a fluid composition thereby reprocessing the medical device.
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
17.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CLEANING LUMENS WITH FLUIDIC COMPOSITIONS
Presented herein are techniques for cleaning the interior/internal lumens (e.g., channels, cylinders, valve sockets and connectors, etc.) of an apparatus, such as a medical device (medical instrument), using contaminant-detaching fluidic compositions. In particular, the techniques presented herein introduce an apportioned amount of a contaminant-detaching fluidic composition into an interior lumen of a medical device. The contaminant-detaching fluidic composition is configured, and propelled through at least a portion of the interior lumen device, so that the contaminant-detaching fluidic composition can clean the walls of the interior lumen (e.g., interact with the walls of interior lumen to remove contaminants there from).
A suction and air/water port connector for a medical device includes a body, a gripping portion coupled to the body and a force generator configured to be at least partially seated within the body. The locking member is configured to removably couple to an exterior surface of a suction port and an air/water port of the medical device to define a locked position and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, movement of the body relative to the suction port and the air/water port is inhibited and a locking force is exerted by the force generator in an axial direction against the suction port and the air/water port to create a liquid-tight seal against the suction port and the air/water port. When in the unlocked position, the locking member is configured to be removed from the suction port and the air/water port.
A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
Presented herein are cleaning agent cartridges for storing and transporting a cleaning agent, techniques for mixing the cleaning agent with a fluid within a cleaning agent cartridge, and techniques for dispensing the resultant fluidic cleaning composition from the cleaning agent cartridge.
B65D 47/00 - Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
B65D 47/06 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages
B65D 51/24 - Closures not otherwise provided for combined with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes
B65D 55/02 - Locking devicesMeans for discouraging or indicating unauthorised opening or removal of closure
B65D 81/24 - Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contentsApplications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
B65D 85/804 - Disposable containers or packages with contents which are infused or dissolved in situ
Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention can operate to decontaminate an environment or surface. In a number of embodiments, an environment or surface is decontaminated by simultaneously exposing it to a combination of peracetic acid vapour and UV-C light. In some embodiments, peracetic acid is aerosolized, then vaporized, and then delivered to a target environment or surface in combination with UV-C to thereby disinfect the target. In various embodiments, the paracetic acid is aerosolized using either a mesh nebulizer or a pneumatic nebulizer.
A61L 9/04 - Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone using substances evaporated in the air without heating
A01N 37/16 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing the group Thio-analogues thereof
A method of cleaning a contaminated surface, such as cleaning the elongate interior lumen of an endoscope contaminated with flesh, bone, blood, mucous, faeces or biofilm, said method comprising the steps of: providing a suspension of solid particles in a liquid to said contaminated surface, and flowing said suspension along said surface thereby to remove contaminant from the surface. The suspension is preferably a paste, where the solid material may be e.g. crystals of a salt, silicon oxide or organic material. The paste preferably has a solid fraction between 5 and 55%. A rheology modifier may be present.
B08B 9/032 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a device (10) for retaining an object in a disinfection apparatus. The device includes at least one support member (12) for contact engagement with one or more contact surfaces of the object. The at least one support member is formed from a material that allows a disinfection media to reach the one or more contact surfaces of the object such that the one or more contact surfaces are disinfected during a disinfection process.
A method of cleaning a contaminated surface, such as cleaning the elongate interior lumen of an endoscope contaminated with flesh, bone, blood, mucous, faeces or biofilm, said method comprising the steps of: providing a suspension of solid particles in a liquid to said contaminated surface, and flowing said suspension along said surface thereby to remove contaminant from the surface. The suspension is preferably a paste, where the solid material may be e.g. crystals of a salt, silicon oxide or organic material. The paste preferably has a solid fraction between 5 and 55%. A rheology modifier may be present.
C11D 17/00 - Detergent materials or soaps characterised by their shape or physical properties
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
A device for retaining a medical apparatus in a sterilisation or disinfection apparatus, said device comprising a closed cradle configured to fully encircle a portion of said medical apparatus when in use, the cradle having a medical apparatus-facing side comprising a plurality of projections for contact with the medical apparatus, and a cradle support configured to interface with the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus and retain the cradle within the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus during the operation of the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus.
A61B 50/20 - Holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments
A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
A61B 90/50 - Supports for surgical instruments, e.g. articulated arms
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
A61L 101/36 - Carboxylic acids or derivatives thereof
Systems and methods for identifying a fluidic configuration of a medical device having at least one lumen, identifying at least one lumen of a medical device, evaluating the integrity of a lumen of a medical device, and reprocessing a lumen of a medical device are presented. For example, these methods include flowing a fluid comprising a known specific gravity through the lumen, measuring the flow rate and/or pressure differential of the fluid being flowed through the lumen, and computing the flow coefficient of the lumen. The flow rate, pressure differential and/or computed flow coefficient may then be compared to known parameters for medical devices and their respective lumens to identify the medical device, each lumen, detect any faults, and/or irrigate the lumen with a fluid composition thereby reprocessing the medical device.
A61B 90/98 - Identification means for patients or instruments, e.g. tags using electromagnetic means, e.g. transponders
B08B 9/032 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
A61L 2/24 - Apparatus using programmed or automatic operation
A61L 2/28 - Devices for testing the effectiveness or completeness of sterilisation, e.g. indicators which change colour
A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
G01F 25/00 - Testing or calibration of apparatus for measuring volume, volume flow or liquid level or for metering by volume
G01L 13/00 - Devices or apparatus for measuring differences of two or more fluid pressure values
G01L 27/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus for measuring fluid pressure
G01M 10/00 - Hydrodynamic testingArrangements in or on ship-testing tanks or water tunnels
28.
FLUID-BASED POWDER CONVEYANCE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MEDICAL DEVICE CLEANING AND/OR LUMEN CLEANING
Systems and methods that integrate fluid-based powder conveyance for cleaning articles, including lumens and medical devices are presented. For example, a method of cleaning an article comprises a step of flowing a first fluid comprising a cleaning agent to a chamber. Flowing the first fluid comprising the cleaning agent to the chamber creates a pressure differential across a filter fluidly coupled to the chamber. When a pressure differential reaches a threshold, indicating that the cleaning agent has been accurately metered, flow of the first fluid comprising the cleaning agent is stopped. Next, flowing a second fluid through the chamber conveys the cleaning agent to an article, e.g., through a lumen of a medical or culinary device, thereby cleaning the article.
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
B08B 9/032 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
Presented herein are techniques for cleaning the interior/internal lumens (e.g., channels, cylinders, valve sockets and connectors, etc.) of an apparatus, such as a medical device (medical instrument), using contaminant-detaching fluidic compositions. In particular, the techniques presented herein introduce an apportioned amount of a contaminant-detaching fluidic composition into an interior lumen of a medical device. The contaminant-detaching fluidic composition is configured, and propelled through at least a portion of the interior lumen device, so that the contaminant-detaching fluidic composition can clean the walls of the interior lumen (e.g., interact with the walls of interior lumen to remove contaminants there from).
A suction and air/water port connector for a medical device includes a body, a gripping portion coupled to the body and a force generator configured to be at least partially seated within the body. The locking member is configured to removably couple to an exterior surface of a suction port and an air/water port of the medical device to define a locked position and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, movement of the body relative to the suction port and the air/water port is inhibited and a locking force is exerted by the force generator in an axial direction against the suction port and the air/water port to create a liquid-tight seal against the suction port and the air/water port. When in the unlocked position, the locking member is configured to be removed from the suction port and the air/water port.
A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention can operate to decontaminate an environment or surface. In a number of embodiments, an environment or surface is decontaminated by simultaneously exposing it to a combination of peracetic acid vapour and UV-C light. In some embodiments, peracetic acid is aerosolized, then vaporized, and then delivered to a target environment or surface in combination with UV-C to thereby disinfect the target. In various embodiments, the paracetic acid is aerosolized using either a mesh nebulizer or a pneumatic nebulizer.
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a device (10) for retaining an object in a disinfection apparatus. The device includes at least one support member (12) for contact engagement with one or more contact surfaces of the object. The at least one support member is formed from a material that allows a disinfection media to reach the one or more contact surfaces of the object such that the one or more contact surfaces are disinfected during a disinfection process.
The invention relates to compositions and methods for reducing biocontaminant (for example flesh, blood, mucous, faeces or biofilm) on a surface, such as an endoscope surface. The compositions are viscoelastic and of low lubricity, having the following properties at 21° C.: a rotational yield point between 140% strain and 300% strain; a peak viscosity between 550 Pa·s and 2000 Pa·s; an oscillatory flow point between 250 and 700% strain; and a coefficient of friction μ which has a maximum value (preferably 0.06 or greater) in the viscoelastic liquid's elastohydrodynamic region.
Described herein is a cleaning apparatus (10) for a medical device (12) having one or more internal channels. Further described is a method for cleaning the medical device using the cleaning apparatus. The cleaning apparatus includes at least two cleaning pumps (20) adapted to pump a viscoelastic liquid (22), each cleaning pump having individual flow control. Each cleaning pump is also fluidly connectable to one or more of the internal channels to allow the viscoelastic liquid to be pumped therethrough thereby removing contaminants.
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
A61B 90/96 - Identification means for patients or instruments, e.g. tags coded with symbols, e.g. text using barcodes
The present invention provides a clamp (10) for clamp for retaining a medical device in a medical apparatus. The clamp (10) includes a pair of opposed gripping elements (16). At least one of the gripping elements is substantially rotatably moveable to grip and apply a compressive force on a portion of the medical device when the portion it is placed between the gripping elements. The compressive force increases when the at least one of the gripping elements rotates in one direction and reduces when it rotates in an opposite direction.
A droplet bandpass filter and method of modifying droplet size distribution of a population of droplets suspended in a gas. Droplets suspended in a gas are flowed through a bandpass filter having a tortuous pathway which comprises at least one impactor region located at a position adjacent to a flow direction change. Larger droplets impact at the impactor region while smaller droplets remain suspended in the gas and flow in the first output direction. Other flow restrictors may advantageously be included in the tortuous pathway. The filter is particularly useful in delivering sterilant aerosols (e.g. peroxides) with reduced populations of large droplets.
B01D 45/06 - Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces by utilising inertia by reversal of direction of flow
B05B 12/00 - Arrangements for controlling deliveryArrangements for controlling the spray area
A method of cleaning a contaminated surface, such as cleaning the elongate interior lumen of an endoscope contaminated with flesh, bone, blood, mucous, faeces or biofilm, said method comprising the steps of: providing a suspension of solid particles in a liquid to said contaminated surface, and flowing said suspension along said surface thereby to remove contaminant from the surface. The suspension is preferably a paste, where the solid material may be e.g. crystals of a salt, silicon oxide or organic material. The paste preferably has a solid fraction between 5 and 55%. A rheology modifier may be present.
B08B 9/00 - Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto
C11D 17/00 - Detergent materials or soaps characterised by their shape or physical properties
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
B08B 3/08 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid the liquid having chemical or dissolving effect
A cover for a probe 12, such as an ultrasonic probe, the cover comprising a flexible elongate pouch 1 and a mouth portion 2 for inserting the probe 12 into the pouch, the mouth portion 2 comprising sealing means to enable the mouth portion to be formed into sealing engagement with a proximal end 11 of the probe. Also, a method of preventing a decontaminated ultrasonic probe from contamination comprising the step of, immediately after disinfection, inserting the ultrasonic probe 12 into a cover comprising a flexible elongate pouch 1 and a mouth portion 2 for inserting the probe 12 into to pouch, the mouth portion 2 comprising a deformably rigid portion 3, and deforming the mouth portion 2 into a sealing engagement with a proximal end 11 of the probe, wherein no undisinfected portion of the probe 12 enters the pouch 1.
A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
A61B 46/13 - Surgical drapes specially adapted for instruments the drapes entering the patient's body
A61B 50/30 - Containers specially adapted for packaging, protecting, dispensing, collecting or disposing of surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments
A61B 46/10 - Surgical drapes specially adapted for instruments
A61B 46/17 - Surgical drapes specially adapted for instruments the drapes entering the patient's body closed at the distal end
A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
A61B 17/00 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods
A method of cleaning a contaminated surface, such as cleaning the elongate interior lumen of an endoscope contaminated with flesh, bone, blood, mucous, faeces or biofilm, said method comprising the steps of: providing a suspension of solid particles in a liquid to said contaminated surface, and flowing said suspension along said surface thereby to remove contaminant from the surface. The suspension is preferably an ice slurry, where the solid material is ice crystals. The slurry preferably has a solid fraction between 50-85% by volume. A freezing point depressant may be present.
A61B 1/12 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
Described herein is a disinfectant system in the form of an autonomous device for performing a disinfectant operation within an enclosed space defined by the walls, ceiling and floor of a room when a predefined condition, in the form of the absence of a human being within the room, is met. The purpose of the system is environmental decontamination and specifically to inactivate pathogenic organisms. The device includes a disinfectant module for carrying out the disinfectant operation when there is an absence of a human being within the room, and a sensing module for sensing the presence of a substantially stationary human being within the room.
A61L 2/16 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor using chemical substances
The invention relates to compositions and methods for reducing biocontaminant (for example flesh, blood, mucous, faeces or biofilm) on a surface, such as an endoscope surface. The compositions are viscoelastic and of low lubricity, having the following properties at 21°C: a rotational yield point between 140% strain and 300% strain; a peak viscosity between 550 Pa∙s and 2000 Pa∙s; an oscillatory flow point between 250 and 700 % strain; and a coefficient of friction µ which has a maximum value (preferably 0.06 or greater) in the viscoelastic liquid's elastohydrodynamic region.
Described herein is a cleaning apparatus (10) for a medical device (12) having one or more internal channels. Further described is a method for cleaning the medical device using the cleaning apparatus. The cleaning apparatus includes at least two cleaning pumps (20) adapted to pump a viscoelastic liquid (22), each cleaning pump having individual flow control. Each cleaning pump is also fluidly connectable to one or more of the internal channels to allow the viscoelastic liquid to be pumped therethrough thereby removing contaminants.
B08B 9/032 - Cleaning the internal surfacesRemoval of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
A61B 1/012 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor characterised by internal passages or accessories therefor
A droplet bandpass filter and method of modifying droplet size distribution of a population of droplets suspended in a gas. Droplets suspended in a gas are flowed through a bandpass filter having a tortuous pathway which comprises at least one impactor region located at a position adjacent to a flow direction change. Larger droplets impact at the impactor region while smaller droplets remain suspended in the gas and flow in the first output direction. Other flow restrictors may advantageously be included in the tortuous pathway. The filter is particularly useful in delivering sterilant aerosols (e.g. peroxides) with reduced populations of large droplets.
The present invention provides a clamp (10) for clamp for retaining a medical device in a medical apparatus. The clamp (10) includes a pair of opposed gripping elements (16). At least one of the gripping elements is substantially rotatably moveable to grip and apply a compressive force on a portion of the medical device when the portion it is placed between the gripping elements. The compressive force increases when the at least one of the gripping elements rotates in one direction and reduces when it rotates in an opposite direction.
A method of cleaning a contaminated surface, such as cleaning the elongate interior lumen of an endoscope contaminated with flesh, bone, blood, mucous, faeces or biofilm, said method comprising the steps of: providing a suspension of solid particles in a liquid to said contaminated surface, and flowing said suspension along said surface thereby to remove contaminant from the surface. The suspension is preferably a paste, where the solid material may be e.g. crystals of a salt, silicon oxide or organic material. The paste preferably has a solid fraction between 5 and 55%. A rheology modifier may be present.
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
A61L 2/02 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor using physical phenomena
A method of cleaning a contaminated surface, such as cleaning the elongate interior lumen of an endoscope contaminated with flesh, bone, blood, mucous, faeces or biofilm, said method comprising the steps of: providing a suspension of solid particles in a liquid to said contaminated surface, and flowing said suspension along said surface thereby to remove contaminant from the surface. The suspension is preferably an ice slurry, where the solid material is ice crystals. The slurry preferably has a solid fraction between 50-85% by volume. A freezing point depressant may be present.
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
A61L 2/02 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor using physical phenomena
A nebuliser cup for maintaining a safe level of liquid during nebulization, the cup comprising a liquid level sensor comprising: a first element sensing liquid at or below a position corresponding to a filled liquid level in the nebuliser cup; a second element electrically isolated from the first element and located at a position corresponding to a filled liquid level in the nebuliser cup; and wherein when the cup is not filled with a liquid to the filled liquid level, the first element, the liquid and the second element do not form an electrically coupled circuit; and when the cup is filled with a liquid to the filled to liquid level, the first element, the liquid and the second element together form an electrically coupled circuit.
B05B 12/08 - Arrangements for controlling deliveryArrangements for controlling the spray area responsive to condition of liquid or other fluent material discharged, of ambient medium or of target
G01F 23/26 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water by measuring variations of capacity or inductance of capacitors or inductors arising from the presence of liquid or fluent solid material in the electric or electromagnetic fields
A61M 11/00 - Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes
G01F 23/24 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water by measuring variations of resistance of resistors due to contact with conductor fluid
B05B 17/06 - Apparatus for spraying or atomising liquids or other fluent materials, not covered by any other group of this subclass operating with special methods using ultrasonic vibrations
A61L 2/22 - Phase substances, e.g. smokes, aerosols
An aqueous disinfectant solution comprising peroxyacetic acid and a surfactant such as a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate, (polyethylene glycol p-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenyl ether) or cocoamidopropylamino oxide. The solution is preferably adjusted to provide a pH in the range 5-8 by a pH adjusting agent such as a phosphate buffer; hydroxide; carbonate; bicarbonate; a combination of carbonate and hydroxide; or a combination of carbonate and bi carbonate.
A01N 25/00 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of applicationSubstances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests
A01N 37/16 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing the group Thio-analogues thereof
A01N 59/00 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing elements or inorganic compounds
Described herein is a disinfectant system in the form of an autonomous device for performing a disinfectant operation within an enclosed space defined by the walls, ceiling and floor of a room when a predefined condition, in the form of the absence of a human being within the room, is met. The purpose of the system is environmental decontamination and specifically to inactivate pathogenic organisms. The device includes a disinfectant module for carrying out the disinfectant operation when there is an absence of a human being within the room, and a sensing module for sensing the presence of a substantially stationary human being within the room.
A cover for a probe (12), such as an ultrasonic probe, the cover comprising a flexible elongate pouch (1) and a mouth portion (2) for inserting the probe (12) into the pouch, the mouth portion (2) comprising sealing means to enable the mouth portion to be formed into sealing engagement with a proximal end (11) of the probe. Also, a method of preventing a decontaminated ultrasonic probe from contamination comprising the step of, immediately after disinfection, inserting the ultrasonic probe (12) into a cover comprising a flexible elongate pouch (1) and a mouth portion (2) for inserting the probe (12) into to pouch, the mouth portion (2) comprising a deformably rigid portion (3), and deforming the mouth portion (2) into a sealing engagement with a proximal end (11) of the probe, wherein no undisinfected portion of the probe (12) enters the pouch (1).
A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
A61B 50/00 - Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers
Methods for determining the amount of residual sterilant remaining on the surface of an object at the end of a disinfection process are described. One method of determining the amount of residual sterilant on a test piece after a sterilization regime in a sterilization space includes the steps of: placing a test piece having a predetermined surface area into the sterilization space; subjecting the test piece to the sterilization regime; collecting the residual sterilant from the test piece in a collector solution; and measuring the amount of residual sterilant in the collector solution.
G01N 21/78 - Systems in which material is subjected to a chemical reaction, the progress or the result of the reaction being investigated by observing the effect on a chemical indicator producing a change of colour
G01N 31/22 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
A01N 37/16 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing the group Thio-analogues thereof
A01N 25/22 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of applicationSubstances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests containing ingredients stabilising the active ingredients
An aqueous disinfectant solution comprising peroxyacetic acid and a surfactant such as a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate, (polyethylene glycol p-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenyl ether) or cocoamidopropylamino oxide. The solution is preferably adjusted to provide a pH in the range 5-8 by a pH adjusting agent such as a phosphate buffer; hydroxide; carbonate; bicarbonate; a combination of carbonate and hydroxide; or a combination of carbonate and bi carbonate.
A01N 25/00 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of applicationSubstances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests
A01N 59/00 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing elements or inorganic compounds
A01N 37/16 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing the group Thio-analogues thereof
Methods for determining the amount of residual sterilant remaining on the surface of an object at the end of a disinfection process are described. One method of determining the amount of residual sterilant on a test piece after a sterilization regime in a sterilization space, the method comprises the steps of: placing a test piece having a predetermined surface area into the sterilization space; subjecting the test piece to the sterilization regime; collecting the residual sterilant from the test piece in a collector solution; and measuring the amount of residual sterilant in the collector solution.
Apparatus for concentrating a nebulant comprising a nebulant flow conduit and a counter-flow conduit, or preferably, a plurality of alternating nebulant flow conduits and corresponding counter-flow conduits eg in layered or coaxial arrangement. and wherein at least a portion of the nebulant flow conduit and said counter-flow conduits define respective opposed sides of a gas permeable membrane. In use a nebulizer is in communication with the nebulant flow conduit and the nebulant flow and counter-flow are in the same or opposite directions and act to concentrate the amount of active in a droplet eg from 35 wt % to 60 wt % hydrogen peroxide in water to disinfect and/or sterilize an article.
A61L 2/16 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor using chemical substances
A01N 37/16 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing the group Thio-analogues thereof
A01N 25/00 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of applicationSubstances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests
An aqueous disinfectant solution comprising peroxyacetic acid and a surfactant such as a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate, (polyethylene glycol p-(1,1,3,3- tetramethylbutyl)-phenyl ether) or cocoamidopropylamino oxide.. The solution is preferably adjusted to provide a pH in the range 5-8 by a pH adjusting agent such as a phosphate buffer; hydroxide; carbonate; bicarbonate; a combination of carbonate and hydroxide; or a combination of carbonate and bi carbonate.
A01N 25/30 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of applicationSubstances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests characterised by the surfactants
A61L 101/36 - Carboxylic acids or derivatives thereof
A01N 25/02 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of applicationSubstances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests containing liquids as carriers, diluents or solvents
A01N 37/16 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing the group Thio-analogues thereof
A nebulant suitable for sterilization comprising finely divided liquid droplets suspended in a gas, said droplets including a solute, which is advantageously hydrogen peroxide and a solvent, for example water, wherein the droplets have a concentration of greater than 60 wt % of solute and an average diameter of less than 1.0 micron, preferably less than 0.8 microns. Sterilization using the nebulant may be carried out in suitably adapted apparatus by nebulizing a solution comprising a sterilizing agent in a solvent to form a nebulant of finely divided particles of the solution in a gas stream, said solution including a solvent having a lower boiling point than the sterilizing agent; subjecting the nebulant to energy of a kind and for a duration sufficient to vaporize solvent in preference to sterilizing agent, whereby to increase the concentration of the agent in the nebulant particles; removing the solvent vaporized from the gas stream at or above atmospheric pressure and, if necessary, cooling the nebulant to below 70° C.; and exposing a surface to be sterilized to the nebulant of concentrated sterilizing agent for a time sufficient to sterilize the surface.
A61L 2/16 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor using chemical substances
A manifold which introduces sterilant aerosol to a sterilization chamber for the disinfection of an article. The manifold defines the terminal portion of a fluid pathway from an aerosol generator to the sterilization chamber and comprises at least one chamber inlet port for introducing aerosol into the sterilizing chamber. The manifold is configured to provide directional aerosol flow tangential to the surface of the article, which is preferably of a known configuration and maintained in a predetermined position with respect to the manifold, such that it does not receive a direct flow of aerosol from the manifold. Preferably, the manifold is U-shaped, or bifurcate and defines a plane and with a chamber inlet ports are directed away from that plane. The chamber inlet ports are preferably paired so they create a circular motion of aerosol that moves around the article. Also sterilization apparatus including the manifold.
A method for disinfecting or sterilizing an article comprising enclosing the article or article part inside a container having a wall of which at least a part is a semipermeable fabric or membrane and introducing an amount of vaporizable biocide, preferably hydrogen peroxide in water, to the interior of said container in solution, vapor, liquid or preferably nebulant form. The semipermeable fabric or membrane is selected to allow the biocide to pass from inside to outside of the container as a vapor at atmospheric pressure and to provide a barrier against entry of micro-organisms. The biocide is allowed to exit the container through said membrane while at or above atmospheric pressure, a fluid eg air is directed to flow adjacent the outside of the membrane to expedite vapor removal from the interior side. The article is exposed to the biocide for a time sufficient to disinfect or sterilize the article.
A61L 2/16 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor using chemical substances
Methods for disinfecting or sterilizing an article are provided. One method includes vaporizing a solution comprising a biocide in a solvent having a first biocide:solvent ratio, directing a flow of the vapor to a first side of a membrane; directing an alternate flow of a gas to a second side of the membrane to increase the first biocide:solvent ratio on the first side to a second biocide:solvent ratio greater than the first biocide:solvent ratio thereby producing a concentrated vapor on the first side of the membrane, and contacting the article with the concentrated vapor for a time sufficient to disinfect or sterilize it.
A nebuliser cup for maintaining a safe level of liquid during nebulization, the cup comprising a liquid level sensor comprising : a first element sensing liquid at or below a position corresponding to a filled liquid level in the nebuliser cup; a second element electrically isolated from the first element and located at a position corresponding to a filled liquid level in the nebuliser cup; and wherein when the cup is not filled with a liquid to the filled liquid level, the first element, the liquid and the second element do not form an electrically coupled circuit; and when the cup is filled with a liquid to the filled liquid level, the first element, the liquid and the second element together form an electrically coupled circuit.
A61L 2/22 - Phase substances, e.g. smokes, aerosols
A61M 11/04 - Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes operated by the vapour pressure of the liquid to be sprayed or atomised
G01F 23/24 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water by measuring variations of resistance of resistors due to contact with conductor fluid
B05B 1/08 - Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to produce a jet, spray, or other discharge of particular shape or nature, e.g. in single drops of pulsating nature, e.g. delivering liquid in successive separate quantities
G08B 21/00 - Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
63.
Disinfection aerosol, method of use and manufacture
Aerosols comprising droplets dispersed in a carrier gas, wherein at least some of the droplets contain an antagonist effective to inactivate a biocide are provided. The droplets may contain the biocide and the antagonist that reacts with the biocide to render it harmless. The biocide is used for disinfection or sterilization, and the nature and concentration of the antagonist is selected, or means are provided, to ensure that the time required for the antagonist to render the biocide ineffective is longer than the time required for the biocide to be effective for a desired level of disinfection or sterilization. Methods of manufacture of aerosols are also provided.
A manifold which introduces sterilant aerosol to a sterilization chamber for the disinfection of an article. The manifold defines the terminal portion of a fluid pathway from an aerosol generator to the sterilization chamber and comprises at least one chamber inlet port for introducing aerosol into the sterilizing chamber. The manifold is configured to provide directional aerosol flow tangential to the surface of the article, which is preferably of a known configuration and maintained in a predetermined position with respect to the manifold, such that it does not receive a direct flow of aerosol from the manifold. Preferably, the manifold is U-shaped, or bifurcate and defines a plane and with a chamber inlet ports are directed away from that plane. The chamber inlet ports are preferably paired so they create a circular motion of aerosol that moves around the article. Also sterilization apparatus including the manifold.
A container (1, 2) for storing and dispensing a liquid, the container including an access port (16) having a frangible seal (18) for allowing contained liquid to be dispensed. A vent (19) permeable to vapour but impermeable to liquid is also provided so that vapour may be vented from the interior of the container.
A method of measuring density of a sterilant aerosol e.g. aqueous hydrogen peroxide, in a gas stream (such as a stream of air) for the purposes of measuring sterilant dosage comprising: passing a gas stream at flow rate past an electrically heated element and measuring a first cooling effect, passing an aerosol suspended in a gas stream at flow rate past an electrically heated element and measuring a second cooling effect and measuring the difference between the first cooling effect and second cooling effect and correlating the difference with aerosol density. The total dosage can thus be determined. A measured dosage of a sterilant aerosol can be delivered by way of a feedback loop to halt further delivery of sterilant aerosol when the amount of aerosol delivered reaches a predetermined dosage. The methods allow sterilization to be certified.
G01N 25/18 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of thermal means by investigating thermal conductivity
G01N 25/40 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of thermal means by investigating the development of heat, i.e. calorimetry, e.g. by measuring specific heat, by measuring thermal conductivity on combustion or catalytic oxidation, e.g. of components of gas mixtures the heat developed being transferred to a flowing fluid
A method of sterilizing an object comprising the steps of i) placing an article to be sterilized in a sterilization chamber; ii) providing a sterilizing mist (for example hydrogen peroxide solution) to the sterilization chamber, thereby to contact said article for a first duration; iii) providing a gas flow to said chamber for a second duration, thereby to displace, where present, said sterilizing mist and to remove, where present, condensed mist from said article; wherein the total reduction in micro organisms over a time period encompassing the first duration and the second duration is less than log 6; and wherein steps ii) and iii) are repeated at least once to achieve a predetermined sterilization parameter such as a predetermined sum total of contact time between the sterilizing mist and the article, a predetermined sum total of sterilizing mist provided to the sterilization chamber or a predetermined level of sterilization.
Aerosols comprising droplets dispersed in a carrier gas, wherein at least some of the droplets contain an antagonist effective to inactivate a biocide are provided. The droplets may contain the biocide and the antagonist that reacts with the biocide to render it harmless. The biocide is used for disinfection or sterilization, and the nature and concentration of the antagonist is selected, or means are provided, to ensure that the time required for the antagonist to render the biocide ineffective is longer than the time required for the biocide to be effective for a desired level of disinfection or sterilization. Methods of manufacture of aerosols are also provided.
Methods and compositions for decontaminating exposed surfaces or spaces which may be contaminated with chemical and biological warfare agents and the like are disclosed. The contaminants can be chemical warfare agents, industrial pollutants, pesticides, toxins and the like. For decontamination, a contaminated surface or space is contacted with an aerosol comprising a decontaminating agent, and subsequently or simultaneously, the decontaminated surface or space is contacted with an aerosol comprising a decontaminating agent antagonist. In particular, self-inactivating aerosols are disclosed.
A01N 25/32 - Ingredients for reducing the noxious effect of the active substances to organisms other than pests, e.g. toxicity reducing compositions, self-destructing compositions
A61L 2/22 - Phase substances, e.g. smokes, aerosols
A manifold which introduces sterilant aerosol to a sterilization chamber for the disinfection of an article. The manifold defines the terminal portion of a fluid pathway from an aerosol generator to the sterilization chamber and comprises at least one chamber inlet port for introducing aerosol into the sterilizing chamber. The manifold is configured to provide directional aerosol flow tangential to the surface of the article, which is preferably of a known configuration and maintained in a predetermined position with respect to the manifold, such that it does not receive a direct flow of aerosol from the manifold. Preferably, the manifold is U-shaped, or bifurcate and defines a plane and with a chamber inlet ports are directed away from that plane. The chamber inlet ports are preferably paired so they create a circular motion of aerosol that moves around the article. Also sterilization apparatus including the manifold.
A container (1, 2) for storing and dispensing a liquid, the container including an access port (16) having a frangible seal (18) for allowing contained liquid to be dispensed. A vent (19) permeable to vapour but impermeable to liquid is also provided so that vapour may be vented from the interior of the container.
B65D 51/16 - Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas
B65D 47/10 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages having frangible closures
B65D 51/20 - Caps, lids, or covers co-operating with an inner closure arranged to be opened by piercing, cutting, or tearing
B65D 39/00 - Closures arranged within necks or pouring openings or in discharge apertures, e.g. stoppers
B65D 47/32 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with means for venting
B65D 81/00 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
B65D 41/20 - Caps or cap-like covers with membranes, e.g. arranged to be pierced
B65D 47/36 - Closures with frangible parts adapted to be pierced, torn or removed, to provide discharge openings
B65D 85/84 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for corrosive chemicals
A method of measuring density of a sterilant aerosol e.g. aqueous hydrogen peroxide, in a gas stream (such as a stream of air) for the purposes of measuring sterilant dosage comprising: passing a gas stream at flow rate past an electrically heated element and measuring a first cooling effect, passing an aerosol suspended in a gas stream at flow rate past an electrically heated element and measuring a second cooling effect and measuring the difference between the first cooling effect and second cooling effect and correlating the difference with aerosol density. The total dosage can thus be determined. A measured dosage of a sterilant aerosol can be delivered by way of a feedback loop to halt further delivery of sterilant aerosol when the amount of aerosol delivered reaches a predetermined dosage. The methods allow sterilization to be certified.
A method of sterilising an object comprising the steps of i) placing an article to be sterilised in a sterilisation chamber; ii) providing a sterilising mist (for example hydrogen peroxide solution) to the sterilisation chamber, thereby to contact said article for a first duration; iii) providing a gas flow to said chamber for a second duration, thereby to displace, where present, said sterilising mist and to remove, where present, condensed mist from said article; wherein the total reduction in micro organisms over a time period encompassing the first duration and the second duration is less than log (6); and wherein steps ii) and iii) are repeated at least once to achieve a predetermined sterilisation parameter such as a predetermined sum total of contact time between the sterilising mist and the article, a predetermined sum total of sterilising mist provided to the sterilisation chamber or a predetermined level of sterilisation.
A method for disinfecting or sterilizing an article comprising enclosing the article or article part inside a container having a wall of which at least a part is a semipermeable fabric or membrane and introducing an amount of vaporizable biocide, preferably hydrogen peroxide in water, to the interior of said container in solution, vapor, liquid or preferably nebulant form. The semipermeable fabric or membrane is selected to allow the biocide to pass from inside to outside of the container as a vapor at atmospheric pressure and to provide a barrier against entry of micro-organisms. The biocide is allowed to exit the container through said membrane while at or above atmospheric pressure, a fluid eg air is directed to flow adjacent the outside of the membrane to expedite vapor removal from the interior side. The article is exposed to the biocide for a time sufficient to disinfect or sterilize the article.
A method for disinfecting a volume or surfaces bounding a volume comprising nebulizing a solution comprising a sterilizing agent in a solvent having a lower boiling point than the sterilizing agent to form a nebulant. The nebulant is subjected to energy of a kind and for a duration sufficient to vaporize solvent in preference to sterilizing agent to increase the concentration of the agent in the nebulant particles. Vaporized solvent is removed from the gas stream at or above atmospheric pressure and, if necessary, the nebulant is cooled to below 70° C. The volume or surfaces are exposed to the nebulant for a time sufficient to sterilize said volume or surfaces. Also, apparatus for carrying out the method.
A nebulant suitable for sterilization comprising finely divided liquid droplets suspended in a gas, said droplets including a solute, which is advantageously hydrogen peroxide and a solvent, for example water, wherein the droplets have a concentration of greater than 60 wt % of solute and an average diameter of less than 1.0 micron, preferably less than 0.8 microns. Sterilization using the nebulant may be carried out in suitably adapted apparatus by nebulizing a solution comprising a sterilizing agent in a solvent to form a nebulant of finely divided particles of the solution in a gas stream, said solution including a solvent having a lower boiling point than the sterilizing agent; subjecting the nebulant to energy of a kind and for a duration sufficient to vaporize solvent in preference to sterilizing agent, whereby to increase the concentration of the agent in the nebulant particles; removing the solvent vaporized from the gas stream at or above atmospheric pressure and, if necessary, cooling the nebulant to below 70° C.; and exposing a surface to be sterilized to the nebulant of concentrated sterilizing agent for a time sufficient to sterilize the surface.
Apparatus for concentrating a nebulant comprising a nebulant flow conduit and a counter-flow conduit, or preferably, a plurality of alternating nebulant flow conduits and corresponding counter-flow conduits eg in layered or coaxial arrangement, and wherein at least a portion of the nebulant flow conduit and said counter-flow conduits define respective opposed sides of a gas permeable membrane. In use a nebuliser is in communication with the nebulant flow conduit and the nebulant flow and counter-flow are in the same or opposite directions and act to concentrate the amount of active in a droplet eg from 35 wt % to 60 wt % hydrogen peroxide in water to disinfect and/or sterilize an article.
Apparatus for concentrating a vapour comprising: an optional vaporizer, a vapour flow conduit; a counter flow conduit; an optional humidity controller; and wherein at least a portion of said vapour flow conduit and said counter-flow conduit define respective opposed sides of a membrane. A plurality of alternating vapour flow conduits and corresponding counter-flow conduits may be present. The alternating vapour flow conduits and counter-flow conduits may for example be in a layered configuration or in a concentric, coaxial tubular arrangement. Also, a method of producing a concentrated active from a solution comprising an active in a solvent and having a first active:solvent ratio, said method comprising the steps of: (1) vaporizing the solution to form a vapour wherein the concentration of active is at about said first ratio, (2) providing a flow of the vapour to a first side of a membrane; and (3) providing an alternate flow of a gas to a second side of the membrane whereby to increase said first active:solvent ratio on the first side to a second active:solvent ratio greater than the first active:solvent ratio.
A method for disinfecting or sterilizing an article comprising enclosing the article or article part inside a container having a wall of which at least a part is a semipermeable fabric or membrane and introducing an amount of vaporizable biocide, preferably hydrogen peroxide in water, to the interior of said container in solution, vapour, liquid or preferably nebulant form. The semipermeable fabric or membrane is selected to allow the biocide to pass from inside to outside of the container as a vapour at atmospheric pressure and to provide a barrier against entry of micro-organisms. The biocide is allowed to exit the container through said membrane while at or above atmospheric pressure, a fluid eg air is directed to flow adjacent the outside of the membrane to expedite vapour removal from the interior side. The article is exposed to the biocide for a time sufficient to disinfect or sterilize the article.
A cover for a probe (12), such as an ultrasonic probe, the cover comprising a flexible elongate pouch (1) and a mouth portion (2) for inserting the probe (12) into the pouch, the mouth portion (2) comprising sealing means to enable the mouth portion to be formed into sealing engagetnent with a proximal end (11) of the probe. Also, a method of preventing a decontaminated ultra- sonic probe from contamination comprising the step of, immediately after disinfection, inserting the ultrasonic probe (12) into a cov- er comprising a flexible elongate pouch (1) and a mouth portion (2) for inserting the probe (12) into to pouch, the mouth portion (2) comprising a deformably rigid portion (3), and deforming the mouth portion (2) into a sealing engagement with a proximal end (11) of the probe, wherein no undisinfected portion of the probe (12) enters the pouch (I).
A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
A61B 50/30 - Containers specially adapted for packaging, protecting, dispensing, collecting or disposing of surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments
82.
A DEVICE FOR RETAINING AN OBJECT IN A STERILIZATION/DISINFECTION APPARATUS
A device for retaining a medical apparatus in a sterilisation or disinfection apparatus, said device comprising a closed cradle configured to fully encircle a portion of said medical apparatus when in use, the cradle having a medical apparatus-facing side comprising a plurality of projections for contact with the medical apparatus, and a cradle support configured to interface with the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus and retain the cradle within the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus during the operation of the sterilisation or disinfection apparatus.
A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
A61B 50/20 - Holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments
A61B 90/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups , e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
A61B 90/50 - Supports for surgical instruments, e.g. articulated arms
A61B 90/70 - Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
B65D 47/06 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages
B65D 51/24 - Closures not otherwise provided for combined with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes
B65D 55/02 - Locking devicesMeans for discouraging or indicating unauthorised opening or removal of closure
B65D 81/24 - Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contentsApplications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
B65D 85/804 - Disposable containers or packages with contents which are infused or dissolved in situ
Apparatus for concentrating a vapour comprising: an optional vaporizer, a vapour flow conduit; a counter flow conduit; an optional humidity controller; and wherein at least a portion of said vapour flow conduit and said counter-flow conduit define respective opposed sides of a membrane. A plurality of alternating vapour flow conduits and corresponding counter-flow conduits may be present. The alternating vapour flow conduits and counter-flow conduits may for example be in a layered configuration or in a concentric, coaxial tubular arrangement. Also, a method of producing a concentrated active from a solution comprising an active in a solvent and having a first active:solvent ratio, said method comprising the steps of: (1) vaporizing the solution to form a vapour wherein the concentration of active is at about said first ratio, (2) providing a flow of the vapour to a first side of a membrane; and (3) providing an alternate flow of a gas to a second side of the membrane whereby to increase said first active:solvent ratio on the first side to a second active:solvent ratio greater than the first active:solvent ratio.
A container (1, 2) for storing and dispensing a liquid, the container including an access port (16) having a frangible seal (18) for allowing contained liquid to be dispensed. A vent (19) permeable to vapour but impermeable to liquid is also provid-ed so that vapour may be vented from the interior of the container.
B65D 47/10 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubesClosures with discharging devices other than pumps with discharge nozzles or passages having frangible closures
B65D 47/32 - Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with means for venting
B65D 47/36 - Closures with frangible parts adapted to be pierced, torn or removed, to provide discharge openings
B65D 51/16 - Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas
B65D 51/18 - Arrangements of closures with protective outer cap-like covers or of two or more co-operating closures
B65D 51/20 - Caps, lids, or covers co-operating with an inner closure arranged to be opened by piercing, cutting, or tearing
B65D 81/00 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
B65D 85/84 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for corrosive chemicals
A method of measuring density of a sterilant aerosol e.g. aqueous hydrogen peroxide, in a gas stream (such as a stream of air) for the purposes of measuring sterilant dosage comprising: passing a gas stream at flow rate past an electrically heated element and measuring a first cooling effect, passing an aerosol suspended in a gas stream at flow rate past an electrically heated element and measuring a second cooling effect and measuring the difference between the first cooling effect and second cooling effect and correlating the difference with aerosol density. The total dosage can thus be determined. A measured dosage of a sterilant aerosol can be delivered by way of a feedback loop to halt further delivery of sterilant aerosol when the amount of aerosol delivered reaches a predetermined dosage. The methods allow sterilization to be certified.
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a device (10) for retaining an object in a disinfection apparatus. The device includes at least one support member (12) for contact engagement with one or more contact surfaces of the object. The at least one support member is formed from a material that allows a disinfection media to reach the one or more contact surfaces of the object such that the one or more contact surfaces are disinfected during a disinfection process.
A01N 25/00 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators, characterised by their forms, or by their non-active ingredients or by their methods of applicationSubstances for reducing the noxious effect of the active ingredients to organisms other than pests
A01N 37/16 - Biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing organic compounds containing a carbon atom having three bonds to hetero atoms with at the most two bonds to halogen, e.g. carboxylic acids containing the group Thio-analogues thereof
A01P 1/00 - DisinfectantsAntimicrobial compounds or mixtures thereof
A cover for a probe (12), such as an ultrasonic probe, the cover comprising a flexible elongate pouch (1) and a mouth portion (2) for inserting the probe (12) into the pouch, the mouth portion (2) comprising sealing means to enable the mouth portion to be formed into sealing engagement with a proximal end (11) of the probe. Also, a method of preventing a decontaminated ultrasonic probe from contamination comprising the step of, immediately after disinfection, inserting the ultrasonic probe (12) into a cover comprising a flexible elongate pouch (1) and a mouth portion (2) for inserting the probe (12) into to pouch, the mouth portion (2) comprising a deformably rigid portion (3), and deforming the mouth portion (2) into a sealing engagement with a proximal end (11) of the probe, wherein no undisinfected portion of the probe (12) enters the pouch (1).
A61B 1/00 - Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopesIlluminating arrangements therefor
A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
A61B 50/00 - Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers
A method of sterilising an object comprising the steps of i) placing an article to be sterilised in a sterilisation chamber; ii) providing a sterilising mist (for example hydrogen peroxide solution) to the sterilisation chamber, thereby to contact said article for a first duration; iii) providing a gas flow to said chamber for a second duration, thereby to displace, where present, said sterilising mist and to remove, where present, condensed mist from said article; wherein the total reduction in micro organisms over a time period encompassing the first duration and the second duration is less than log (6); and wherein steps ii) and iii) are repeated at least once to achieve a predetermined sterilisation parameter such as a predetermined sum total of contact time between the sterilising mist and the article, a predetermined sum total of sterilising mist provided to the sterilisation chamber or a predetermined level of sterilisation.
A manifold which introduces sterilant aerosol to a sterilization chamber for the disinfection of an article. The manifold defines the terminal portion of a fluid pathway from an aerosol generator to the sterilization chamber and comprises at least one chamber inlet port for introducing aerosol into the sterilizing chamber. The manifold is configured to provide directional aerosol flow tangential to the surface of the article, which is preferably of a known configuration and maintained in a predetermined position with respect to the manifold, such that it does not receive a direct flow of aerosol from the manifold. Preferably, the manifold is U-shaped, or bifurcate and defines a plane and with a chamber inlet ports are directed away from that plane. The chamber inlet ports are preferably paired so they create a circular motion of aerosol that moves around the article. Also sterilization apparatus including the manifold.
A nebuliser cup for maintaining a safe level of liquid during nebulization, the cup comprising a liquid level sensor comprising : a first element sensing liquid at or below a position corresponding to a filled liquid level in the nebuliser cup; a second element electrically isolated from the first element and located at a position corresponding to a filled liquid level in the nebuliser cup; and wherein when the cup is not filled with a liquid to the filled liquid level, the first element, the liquid and the second element do not form an electrically coupled circuit; and when the cup is filled with a liquid to the filled liquid level, the first element, the liquid and the second element together form an electrically coupled circuit.
B05B 1/08 - Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to produce a jet, spray, or other discharge of particular shape or nature, e.g. in single drops of pulsating nature, e.g. delivering liquid in successive separate quantities
G01F 23/24 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water by measuring variations of resistance of resistors due to contact with conductor fluid
G08B 21/00 - Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
A method for disinfecting a volume or surfaces bounding a volume comprising nebulising a solution comprising a sterilizing agent in a solvent having a lower boiling point than the sterilizing agent, for example ultrasonic nebulization of aqueous hydrogen peroxide, to form a nebulant. The nebulant is subjected to energy of a kind and for a duration sufficient to vaporize solvent in preference to sterilizing agent, eg heating element means, infra red, laser, microwave, RF or other radiation generating means; induction heating means; heat exchanger means; conduction means; convection means; or mechanical energy transfer means to increase the concentration of the agent in the nebulant particles. Vaporized solvent is removed from the gas stream at or above atmospheric pressure and, if necessary, the nebulant is cooled to below 7O0C. The volume or surfaces are exposed to the nebulant for a time sufficient to sterilize said volume or surfaces. Also, apparatus for carrying out the method.
Apparatus for concentrating a nebulant comprising a nebulant flow conduit and a counter-flow conduit, or preferably, a plurality of alternating nebulant flow conduits and corresponding counter-flow conduits eg in layered or coaxial arrangement, and wherein at least a portion of the nebulant flow conduit and said counter-flow conduits define respective opposed sides of a gas permeable membrane. In use a nebuliser is in communication with the nebulant flow conduit and the nebulant flow and counter-flow are in the same or opposite directions and act to concentrate the amount of active in a droplet eg from 35wt% to 60wt% hydrogen peroxide in water to disinfect and/or sterilize an article.
Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention can operate to decontaminate an environment or surface. In a number of embodiments, an environment or surface is decontaminated by simultaneously exposing it to a combination of peracetic acid vapour and UV-C light. In some embodiments, peracetic acid is aerosolized, then vaporized, and then delivered to a target environment or surface in combination with UV-C to thereby disinfect the target. In various embodiments, the paracetic acid is aerosolized using either a mesh nebulizer or a pneumatic nebulizer.
patents
