초록 ▼

Methods and devices are disclosed for sterilization of endoscopic instrument lumens. Diffuse ultraviolet radiation is employed to sterilize the inner surfaces of the instrument lumen. The ultraviolet radiation can be delivered via one or more optical fibers having a light-diffusing assembly coupled

Methods and devices are disclosed for sterilization of endoscopic instrument lumens. Diffuse ultraviolet radiation is employed to sterilize the inner surfaces of the instrument lumen. The ultraviolet radiation can be delivered via one or more optical fibers having a light-diffusing assembly coupled thereto. The instrument operates by delivering cytotoxic radiation to the inner lumen surface to sterilize any biological agents which may be present within the instrument lumen.

대표청구항 ▼

Apparatus for sterilizing an endoscopic instrument lumen comprising: a light delivery fiber for receiving ultraviolet (UV) radiation at a proximal end and sufficiently small to fit within an endoscopic instrument lumen and transmit the UV radiation through the lumen; a diffuser optically coupled to

Apparatus for sterilizing an endoscopic instrument lumen comprising: a light delivery fiber for receiving ultraviolet (UV) radiation at a proximal end and sufficiently small to fit within an endoscopic instrument lumen and transmit the UV radiation through the lumen; a diffuser optically coupled to a distal end of the fiber for diffusing UV radiation from said fiber onto the inner wall surface of a instrument lumen, the diffuser comprising a light scattering medium into which the UV radiation is transmitted such that upon placement of the apparatus within an endoscopic instrument lumen and coupling of the fiber with a UV radiation source, radiation is transmitted through the fiber and deflected radially outwardly by the scattering medium to irradiate and sterilize the lumen; and a disposable sheath adapted to surround the diffuser and at least part of the light delivery fiber.