Method and apparatus for automated active sterilization of fully implanted devices

Abstract

The current invention provides this advance in infection control via its unique application of active sterilization to a catheter or implant. While most catheters, and many implants, are passive devices, the current invention will provide an active component as a integral part of the implanted catheter or device to continuously or intermittently sterilize the exposed surfaces / areas of the device. This active sterilization may be accomplished by a variety of mechanisms, including, application of heat, RF, microwave, ultrasound, ultraviolet radiation or other energy capable of sterilizing the device or dislodging any problematic Biofilm that may form. The active sterilization may also employ the pumping of a sterilizing chemical from all attached drug reservoir, the use of electricity or freezing temperatures or any other mechanism for either inhibiting, killing or dislodging any infectious material in contact with the implant. One major advantage of this design is that through the use of small, battery powered or inductively powered sterilization element, the implanted catheter or device can be effectively sterilized without requiring the standard removal surgery, waiting period, then replacement of the infected device. This is expected to translate into greatly improved outcomes (particularly for devices where infection may be catastrophic, ie a prosthetic knee or hip), greatly improved costs, and greatly improved longevity of susceptible devices (ie IV ports, etc.).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 121702,977 filed Feb. 9, 2010, which is a continuation of International Pat. App, Ser. No. PCT / US2008 / 073279 filed Aug. 15, 2008 which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Prov. Pat. App. 60 / 964,822 filed Aug. 15, 2007, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to the field of medical devices, in particular catheters and other implantable devices in the body that are susceptible to infection.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]In the last few decades, there has been incredible progress in a variety of medical fields. At the same time, though, many fields have stymied and remained stagnant. Once such field is the treatment and prevention of catheter and implant infections. Despite many of the issues associated with indwelling catheters and implants, the primary of which is infection in many...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention provides an active sterilization component for catheters and implants, which can continuously or intermittently sterilize the exposed surfaces / areas of the device. This active sterilization can be achieved by various mechanisms such as heat, RF, microwave, or ultrasound. The device can also use a small battery powered or inductively powered sterilization element to avoid the need for standard removal surgery, waiting period, and replacement of the infected device. The device provides an in-line sterilization element that can sterilize fluid passing through its conduits to prevent spread of infection. This design is optimal for preventing retrograde spread of infection when a pump is parked or is in line with a backcheck valve. The technical effects of the invention include improved outcomes, reduced costs, and increased longevity of susceptible devices.

Problems solved by technology

At the same time, though, many fields have stymied and remained stagnant.

These devices typically are highly prone to infection, but they can be sterilized through the external application of anti-infective measures.

Fully implantable devices for the prevention of infection, though, have been limited to bactericidal and bacteriostatic coatings or the application of a small current / voltage to prevent bacterial adhesion.

The use of an electronegative field to prevent bacterial adhesion, though, has been in development for quite some time and there is still no device that has been successfully commercialized, with this feature due to the energy demands and poor cost-efficacy.

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