Lumen sterilization device and method

Abstract

Devices and methods for sterilizing lumens involve a booster that is attached to the lumen. In preferred embodiments, the contact area between the lumen and the booster enhances the penetration of an antimicrobial agent to the contact area.

1 - 10 . (canceled)  
     
     
         11 . A system for sterilizing a lumen, comprising: 
 a vacuum chamber;    a pump to evacuate the chamber;    a dry booster attachable to and detachable from a lumen; and    a source of germicide.    
     
     
         12 . The system of  claim 11 , wherein the dry booster comprises an adaptor and wherein the lumen contacts the adaptor in a contact area.  
     
     
         13 . The system of  claim 12 , wherein the adaptor is constructed from a material, at least in the contact area, that is permeable to the antimicrobial vapor or gas.  
     
     
         14 . The system of  claim 12 , wherein the adaptor comprises a surface that is textured or uneven in the contact area.  
     
     
         15 . The system of  claim 11 , wherein the dry booster encloses an internal volume that is greater than the internal volume of the lumen.  
     
     
         16 . The system of  claim 11 , wherein the dry booster comprises a flow restrictor.  
     
     
         17 . The system of  claim 11 , wherein the dry booster comprises a check valve.  
     
     
         18 - 28 . (canceled)