Medical device and information container

Abstract

A dynamically configurable medical device and information container is disclosed. The container includes ergonomic features that enable ease of handling and unloading of the contents of the container. Specifically, a configurable section serves as an ergonomic gripping section and a containment section. The container also includes tamper-proof strips that are visible indications of prior opening or tampering with the container. Furthermore, vent holes are implemented to release sterilization gas residues to limit the sterilization gas content of the container.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention relates to specialized containers adapted to hold and contain a medical device and related information. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Containers designed for storing and transporting medical devices and surgical equipment are well known in the art. Generally, these types of containers include a container and a cover with sufficient volume to hold medical devices and components securely. Various types of attachments such as, for example, hinges, snap-on grooves or other structures are used to securely place the cover on the container. [0003] One of the general performance requirements for medical device containers is the need to maintain a protection for a sterilized package from the point of packaging, storage to delivery. Specifically, the primary features of most sterilized medical implant packages are to provide protection of the implants during shipping and enable sterile delivery to the operating room. However, there are several ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005] The invention is directed to a container for a medical device and related information that is tailored to house, cradle, support and protect the medical device in a sterile environment. Specifically, the container in accordance with the present invention, is dynamically configurable to enable an efficient high volume assembly, packaging, shipping and delivery operation while further enabling safe handling and unpacking of the contents of the container in an orientation suitable for a quick access and removal to implant in a patient.

[0007] In yet another aspect of the invention, the container includes ergonomic features that promote a simple and efficient handling of the container while enabling a secure hand-off to a surgeon in an operating room. The container also provides a tamper-proof indicator that includes a breakaway strip which breaks away when the cover of the container is opened for the first time, thus providing visible proof if the container was ever tampered with or in anyway compromised.

Problems solved by technology

Further, the container includes vent holes to enable a gradual but continuous release of sterilization gas residues such as ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide that would otherwise accumulate in the box and may render the package unacceptable in certain jurisdictions with strict emission standards.

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