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Catheter reprocessing and sterilizing system

  • US 5,310,524 A
  • Filed: 02/11/1992
  • Issued: 05/10/1994
  • Est. Priority Date: 02/11/1992
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method for reprocessing and sterilizing a previously used catheter comprising the steps of:

  • (a) providing a catheter receiving housing and a catheter, having at least one lumen and a balloon member;

    (b) enclosing said catheter within said catheter receiving housing;

    (c) heating an external source of a sterilant to a temperature of about 53°

    C.;

    (d) introducing said sterilant into said catheter receiving housing;

    (e) causing said sterilant to circulate throughout said catheter receiving housing and around and within said catheter, said at least one lumen and said balloon member while constantly maintaining said temperature of about 53°

    C.;

    (f) draining said sterilant from said catheter receiving housing;

    (g) pressurizing said catheter receiving housing to a pressure level above said ambient pressure;

    (h) maintaining said pressure level within said catheter receiving housing whereby the sterility of said catheter is maintained in a dry, sterile environment for at least one week by retaining said catheter in said pressurized catheter receiving housing.

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