Method for characterizing biological indicators n sterilization processes and apparatus for the implementation thereof
AssigneeFedegari Autoclavi S.P.A.
InventorFortunato Fedegari
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The invention relates to a method for characterizing the bioindicators in sterilization processes using an autoclave and the like, in which a bioindicator is kept in the same conditions as the sterilization chamber (2) and extracted after a predetermined time interval. For this purpose the chamber (2) has, passing through it, a tube (5) on the ends of which valves (8-9, 10-11) are mounted, said valves allowing the insertion, from above, of a bioindicator sample and its extraction from below, when required, without a significant loss of sterilizing agent. Alternatively, the duct (5) may also be arranged outside the sterilization chamber (2) and kept in communication therewith by a bypass connection.
Claims16
A method for characterizing biological indicators used in sterilization processes, comprising the steps of:
- providing a sterilization chamber in fluid communication with a duct so as to allow flow from and into the duct of a sterilizing agent;
- applying predefined sterilization conditions to the chamber;
- and
- introducing into the duct a biological indicator sample and extracting said sample after a predetermined time, depending on a treatment cycle to be performed.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.