Protective tube for use in the sterilization of flexible endoscopes and sterilization method
US6551238B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 7, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 22, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 16, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61L2202/24
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A protective tube is provided for use in sterilizing flexible endoscopes in a vacuum method. Such flexible endoscopes comprise a flexible sleeve at a distal end portion. The diameter of the protective tube is selected such that the tube can be slipped onto and fit onto the distal end portion. The length of the tube is selected such that it at least covers the end portion with the flexible sleeve. In addition, the structure of the tube is selected such that the flexible sleeve is protected against swelling under vacuum conditions, at the same time however the sterilizing agent reaches between the outside of the sleeve and the applied protective tube.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.