Catheter reprocessing system
US4721123A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 23, 1986 |
| Grant date | Jan 26, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 23, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2025/1077
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A machine for reprocessing catheters of the type having a double lumen, one of which leads to a balloon. A used catheter is sealed within a cassette which in turn is connected by multiple ports to a cleaning side of the machine. Cleaning solution is flushed through the inside and outside of the catheter. The balloon integrity is tested by adding step wise volume additions and monitoring the pressure. The data generated is compared to a standard curve for new catheters. The cleaned, sterile catheter is then rinsed to remove all traces of sterilant. Sterile saline is alternatively flushed through the cassette and catheter. The balloon is again tested for leaks. No portion of the rinse side of the machine requires sterilizing except for the disposable tubing set and saline source. The rinsed, clean and sterile catheter is removed from the cassette for reuse.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.