Method and apparatus for automated active sterilization of fully implanted devices
US8865063B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 9, 2010 |
| Grant date | Oct 21, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 9, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2205/058
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The current invention provides this advance in infection control via its unique application of active sterilization to a catheter or implant. While most catheters, and many implants, are passive devices, the current invention will provide an active component as a integral part of the implanted catheter or device to continuously or intermittently sterilize the exposed surfaces/areas of the device. This active sterilization may be accomplished by a variety of mechanisms, including, application of heat, RF, microwave, ultrasound, ultraviolet radiation or other energy capable of sterilizing the device or dislodging any problematic Biofilm that may form. The active sterilization may also employ the pumping of a sterilizing chemical from an attached drug reservoir, the use of electricity or freezing temperatures or any other mechanism for either inhibiting, killing or dislodging any infectious material in contact with the implant. One major advantage of this design is that through the use of a small, battery powered or inductively powered sterilization element, the implanted catheter or device can be effectively sterilized without requiring the standard removal surgery, waiting period, t…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.