Systems and methods for sterilization using UV light
US9550005B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 28, 2015 |
| Grant date | Jan 24, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 28, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2209/10
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Embodiments of this disclosure include systems, methods, and kits for sterilizing in vivo catheters using an optical fiber to deliver UV light. In an embodiment, a method for sterilizing a catheter with at least a first lumen, includes inserting a distal end of a fiber optic cable into a fiber insertion port of a catheter connector attached to a hub of the first lumen, flushing the first lumen with fluid from a fluid source, inserting the fiber optic cable into the first lumen until a stopper of the fiber optic cable is adjacent to the fiber insertion port, providing light to the fiber optic cable from a light source after the fiber optic cable is inserted into the first lumen, withdrawing the fiber optic cable from the first lumen while the light is provided, and ceasing to provide light to the fiber optic cable after the fiber optic cable is withdrawn from the first lumen. The disclosure is also applicable to catheters with multiple lumens and to catheters accessed through subcutaneous ports.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.