System and method for probe cleaning and disinfecting
US12415007B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 2023 |
| Grant date | Sep 16, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB08B3/10
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention are directed to apparatuses and methods for cleaning and disinfecting probes. A cleaner is utilized to remove foreign materials (e.g., bioburden, soil, and other like material) from the probe after it is removed from the patient by soaking and/or flushing the foreign materials from the probe. The cleaner may be an enzymatic detergent that has bacteriostatic properties to inhibit bacterial growth within the apparatus. The multiple enzymes in the cleaner attack the foreign material, and include low-foam properties for effective recirculation across cycles within the cleaning step. The probe is rinsed after the cleaning step, and after rinsing a disinfectant process is applied to the probe. The disinfectant soaks and/or flushes the probe for a specified amount of time across cycles of recirculation to disinfect the surface of the probe, and afterwards the probe is rinsed thoroughly to remove the disinfectant from the probe.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.