Antimicrobial blue light enabling improved medical tube

Abstract

The current invention relates to a tube comprising at least one lumen, and a wall comprising at least one or a plurality of wave-guide(s), wherein the wall encloses the at least one lumen, wherein the tube comprises a distal end configured for being introduced into a body of a mammal, and a proximal end comprising a connector, wherein the waveguide(s) are configured to conduct electro-magnetic radiation along the tube wherein the tube is configured to emit at least a part of the radiation into the lumen and / or to an outer surface of the tube, and wherein the wave-guide(s) are configured for transmitting and / or side-emitting UV-light and / or visible light, and wherein the wall comprises a polymer, wherein the polymer is UV-transparent and blue-light-transparent The invention further relates to a system comprising the tube, and a radiation source configured for emitting electro-magnetic radiation.

Description

[0001] Antimicrobial Blue Light enabling improved medical tube Field

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of medical instruments and devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of catheters and sterile devices.

[0003] Introduction

[0004] Catheters are medical devices that can be placed into different body cavities, ducts, or vessels to manage diseases, enable surgical access, assist in draining bodily fluids, and deliver fluids or gases, among other uses.

[0005] Catheters are long-known for use in treatment of patients, e.g. as urinary catheters. However, using catheters also results in increased risk for the patients' health due to nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections. Additionally, the difficult commercial availability of light sources and other components for certain wavelengths used in catheters is also something to consider.

[0006] US11529530B2 discloses methods and apparatus for the inactivation of infectious agents in, on or around a catheter residing in a patient's body cavity. The method comprises a coupling adapter for facilitating the transmission of non-ultraviolet sterilizing electromagnetic radiation (EMR) substantially axially along an optical element into the catheter body. Through delivery of the sterilizing EMR to particular areas of highest infection, the present disclosure is able to inactivate the major sources of infection in catheters.

[0007] US11229728B1 discloses methods and apparatus provide therapeutic electromagnetic radiation (EMR) for inactivating infectious agents in, on or around a catheter residing in a patient's body cavity and / or for enhancing healthy cell growth. Transmitting non-ultraviolet therapeutic EMR substantially axially along an optical element in a lumen of the catheter body and / or the catheter body. Through delivery of the therapeutic EMR to particular infected areas and / or areas requiring tissue healing. The inactivation of the major sources of infection in, on, and around catheters and / or enhance healthy cell growth around catheters is accomplished by utilizing controlled relative intensity and / or treatment region specific dosing of the therapeutic EMR emitted radially from the optical element. Specific embodiments of urinary catheters, peritoneal dialysis catheters, dialysis accesses, and hemodialysis accesses are also disclosed.Leanse, L.G. et al. (2022) underlines the significance of antimicrobial Blue Light (aBL) as a potentially transformative approach in the fight against microbial infections, particularly in settings burdened by antibiotic resistance. The mechanism of aBL, with an optimal wavelength range of 400 nm to 470 nm, in particular 405 nm, involves the photoexcitation of endogenous porphyrins within microbes, leading to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage vital cellular components.

[0008] Huang, S. et al. (2023) offers a comprehensive examination of antimicrobial blue light (aBL) therapy's effectiveness against a variety of pathogens, emphasizing the critical role of specific treatment parameters, highlighting an optimal wavelength range of 400-420 nm for effective antimicrobial action, in particular 405 nm. For dosage, it specifies that a D90 is 81 J / cm / K2 and a D99 is 188 J / cm / K2. Altering the frequency of a pulsed radiation between 100 Hz to 10 kHz also demonstrated that higherfrequencies could indeed enhance microbial reduction at specific doses. This finding underscores the potential of frequency adjustments in pulsed aBL therapy to improve antimicrobial efficacy.

[0009] Lawrence, C. et al. (2022) demonstrates its potential as a non-chemical, non-thermal microbial control method across medical, food, and agricultural settings, confirming that blue light, particularly within the 395 to 445 nanometer wavelength range, effectively reduces E. coli populations. This effect is attributed to the generation of reactive oxygen species that damage bacterial cells.

[0010] Maclean, M. et al. (2014) highlights how, unlike UV light, 405 nm light is safe for continuous use in occupied spaces, such as hospital rooms, because it does not pose hazards like DNA damage. This allows for ongoing disinfection of air and surfaces without needing to vacate the spaces.

[0011] Dai, T. et al. (2012) underscores the effectiveness of blue light, particularly in the wavelength range of 405-470 nm, against a variety of pathogens including Propionibacterium acnes and Helicobacter pylori. It emphasizes the intrinsic antimicrobial effects of blue light without the need for exogenous photosensitizers. The paper also discusses successful clinical trials using blue light for the treatment of P. acnes, which is commonly associated with acne, and explores its potential for treating H. pylori infections, which are linked to stomach ulcers and cancer. The study further touches on the positive effects of blue light on wound healing, noting that it can inhibit biofilm formation and reduce virulence in pathogenic bacteria, potentially speeding up the healing process.

[0012] Tomb, R.M. et al. (2018) comprehensively reviews the antimicrobial efficacy of violet-blue light (380-480 nm) across a wide range of pathogens including bacteria, fungi, and viruses,emphasizing its potential as a non-invasive disinfection technology. Among the studied wavelengths, 405 nm is particularly effective, aligning with the peak absorption ranges of endogenous photosensitizers in many pathogens, which facilitates efficient photoinactivation.

[0013] Summary

[0014] However, no commercially-available system exist that utilizes blue light for photodisinfection of catheters due to the lack of technology availability such as but not limited to light sources, waveguides, and / or mass manufacturing processes. Other existing solutions including coated catheters (antibiotic or silver coated) presents side effects and low effectivity.

[0015] In light of the above, it is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome or at least to alleviate the shortcomings and disadvantages of the prior art. More particularly, it is an object of the present invention to not only circumvent challenges related to commercial availability of light sources and other components for the, for example, 222nm wavelength, but also circumvent the DNA damages caused by UV light and more specifically UV-C light by implementing violet-blue light, wherein the disinfection effect of violet-blue light arises from the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

[0016] These objects are met by the present invention.

[0017] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a tube comprising at least one lumen, and a wall comprising at least one or a plurality of wave-guide(s), wherein the wave-guide(s) may be configured to conduct electro-magnetic radiation along the tube wherein the tube may be configured to emit at least a part of the radiation into the lumen and / or to an outer surface of the tube.

[0018] The wall may comprise at least one inner surface and at least one outer surface wherein the at least one or plurality of waveguide(s) may be comprised between the inner surface and the outer surface. The wall may also enclose the at least one lumen. The at least one lumen may further comprise a plurality of lumens. The wave-guide(s) and the lumen may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0019] In one embodiment, the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the inner surface may be different than the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the outer surface. The distance between the wave-guide(s) and the inner surface may also be smaller than the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the outer surface. The asymmetry in thedifferences may provide different degrees of radiation and enhance light distribution and thus constitutes an advantage for the present invention. More particularly, the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the inner surface may be preferably 0.1mm, and the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the outer surface may be preferably 0.5 mm.

[0020] In another embodiment, the tube according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the wall of the tube may be the wave-guide(s). The wave-guide(s) may also be located within the lumen at least along a portion of the tube. The wave-guide(s) may further be side emitting. In other words, the wave guides may be configured for laterally emitting at least a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation. This may optionally advantageously allow for transmission of the electro-magnetic radiation into the lumen and / or to an outer surface of the tube over at least a portion of a length of the tube. Hence, optionally, a disinfection of the outer surface and / or the lumen by means of the electro-magnetic radiation may be rendered possible. The side emitting feature of the wave-guide(s) may be enabled via diffraction coating.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the wall may be configured for transmitting at least a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the wave-guide(s) to the outer surface of the tube. The outer surface of the tube may also be at least partially transparent to the electromagnetic radiation. The wave-guide(s) may further be configured for side-emitting at least a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation into the wall. The wall may additionally or alternatively, be configured for transmitting at least a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the wave-guide(s) to at least one of the at least one lumen and / or to the at least one lumen.

[0022] Furthermore, the tube may comprise a distal end configured for being introduced into a body of a mammal. The tube may also comprise a proximal end comprising a connector.

[0023] Moreover, each of the plurality of wave-guides may be spaced from each other for over at least 50%, preferably at least 75% and still more preferably at least 90% of their length within a portion of the wall that may be configured to be introduced into the body of the mammal. This may be optionally advantageous for an improved and more even distribution of the electro-magnetic radiation.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of wave-guides may be guided helically along a length of the tube. The plurality of wave-guides may also be arranged substantially parallel to each other and / or arranged as a chain. The plurality of wave-guides may further be substantially mechanically held together.In one embodiment, the plurality of wave-guides may enter a substantially formfitting connection. The plurality of wave-guides may also enter a substantially non-positive connection and / or a substantially substance-to-substance bonding. The wave-guide(s) may further be enclosed by the wall, non-detachable, permanently attached to at least a portion of the wall and / or flexible. The tube may additionally be flexible.

[0025] In another embodiment, the wave-guide(s) may be configured for transmitting and / or side-emitting UV-light and / or visible light comprising a wave-length of 380 nm-500 nm, preferably 380 nm-460 nm, more preferably 390 nm-410nm and / or 405 nm. While this wavelength range can achieve outcomes in terms of disinfection without damaging human tissue, the disinfection effect in the current invention arises from the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), unlike the disinfection effect of UV-C light, which may be due to DNA damage.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the wave-guides may be configured for transmitting and / or sideemitting visible light. The wave-guide(s) may also comprise a gradient of a side-emittance of the UV-light and / or visible light. The side-emittance of the UV-light and / or visible light may also increase from the proximal to the distal end. A gradient may refer to a gradual difference in irradiance along a distance of the wave-guide(s).

[0027] Furthermore, each of the wave-guide(s) may comprise an optic fiber. The optic fiber may also comprise a silica fiber and / or a high-OH silica core.

[0028] Moreover, the wave-guide(s) may be configured to be side-emitting by means of scattering centers. The wave-guide(s) may also be configured to be side-emitting by means of by a partially removed cladding. The wave-guide(s) may further comprise a liquid light guide, wherein the liquid light guide may comprise a canal for a light guide liquid, wherein the canal may comprise the light guide liquid. The light guide liquid may comprise a refractive index above a refractive index of the canal. The wave-guide(s) may also be configured for side-emitting a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation.

[0029] In one embodiment, the wall may comprise a polymer. The wall may also consist to at least 60%, preferably at least 70 % and still more preferably at least 80% of the polymer. The polymer may be biocompatible and / or a thermoplastic.

[0030] In another embodiment, the polymer may be UV-transparent, wherein a UV-transparent polymer may be configured to allow UV light to pass-through. The polymer may also be blue-light-transparent, wherein a blue-light-transparent polymer may be configured to allow a range of wave-lengths to pass-through the polymer, wherein the range of wave-lengths comprise a range of 380 nm-500 nm, preferably 380 nm-460 nm, more preferably 390 nm-410nm, most preferably 405nm. The polymer may further be transparent, wherein a transparent polymer may be configured to allow visible light to pass-through. The polymer may be a fluoropolymer, wherein the fluoropolymer may be fluorinated ethylenepropylene.

[0031] In a further embodiment, the wall may comprise silicone and / or at least one elastomer, such as but not limited to TPU and / or PVC. The wall may also comprise a Young modulus in a range from 0.1 to 60 MPa.

[0032] Furthermore, the lumen may comprise a cross-section area, wherein the cross-section area of the lumen may comprise a negative gradient along the tube from the proximal to the distal end. |The wall of the tube may also comprise a cross-section area, and wherein the cross-section area of the tube may comprise a negative gradient along the tube from the proximal to the distal end.

[0033] Moreover, the tube may comprise a diffusor at the distal end, wherein the diffusor may be a spherical diffusor. The diffusor may also be configured for scattering the UV-light and / or visible light into a hollow organ of the body of the mammal, such as the bladder.

[0034] In one embodiment, the tube may comprise a fluorescent element, wherein the fluorescent element may be fluorescent under UV-light and / or visible light, preferably under UV-light and / or visible light comprising a wavelength of 380 nm-500 nm, preferably 380 nm-460 nm, more preferably 390 nm - 410 nm, most preferably under a wavelength of 405 nm. In another embodiment, the fluorescent element may extend circumferentially around a portion of the tube. The fluorescent element may be stripe-shaped.

[0035] In a further embodiment, the tube may be a catheter, a ventricular catheter, a drain, a dialysis catheter, and / or an infusion tube. The lumen may be configured for guiding at least one of a medical tool and a medical sample. The wave-guide(s) may be configured for transmitting radiation configured for spectroscopy analysis of the mammal. The diffusor may be configured for scattering the light configured for the spectroscopy analysis, such as infrared light.

[0036] Furthermore, the tube may comprise a sensor, wherein the sensor may be located at or next to the distal end of the tube. The sensor may comprise but is not limited to at least one of a camera, a temperature-sensing unit, a pH value-sensing unit, a pulse rate-sensing unit, a pressure-sensing unit, a blood sugar-sensing unit, and a sensing unit configured for blood gas-analysis.Moreover, the tube may comprise a tube-connector, wherein the tube-connector may be configured to connect the wave-guide(s) to a radiation source. The tube-connector may also comprise a socket. The tube-connector may further be configured for receiving an optic fiber cable from the radiation source.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively, the tube-connector may comprise a plug, wherein the plug may be configured to be inserted into a socket of a light source, and wherein the plug may be connected to the wave-guide(s). The tube-connector may also be configured for connecting at least one of the at least one lumen with a drain for fluid, such as a collector bag and / or with a source of fluid.

[0038] In a further embodiment, the tube may be configured for transmitting a read-out of the sensor to the connector. The at least one wave-guide may also be embedded in the tube.

[0039] In another embodiment, the waveguide(s) may comprise a hardened optical grade elastomer waveguide, and / or hardened liquid polymer silicone. The waveguide(s) may also comprise at least one scattering center. The scattering centers may be introduced with a specific distribution and concentration yielding specific radiation profiles. This presents a further advantage of the current invention. These scattering centers may also be tuned in such a way that on a length of the fiber, side emission is present. The liquid polymer silicone allows the control of an irradiation window, preventing loses, therefore, optimizing the effect of inhibition for bacteria.

[0040] Furthermore, the wall of the tube may comprise at least one scattering center. Adding scattering centers in specific parts of the surface allows the light to "scape" similarly to a gradient of light diffusion. The gradient of a side-emittance of the UV-light and / or visible light may be generated by means of at least one scattering center. This could be combined with a fiber coating that does not allows light to go out all along the fiber, but only allow light to be emitted where the coating is missing along the fiber. The tube and / or waveguide(s) may comprise a fiber coating. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide(s) is wrapped around the lumen. This presents a further advantage of the current invention as the concept of wrapping would be especially useful for the treatment of infected blood and allows easier coverage of the area for the disinfection.

[0041] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a system, comprising the tube as described herein, and further comprising a radiation source configured for emitting electro-magnetic radiation. The electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the radiation source may compriseUV-light and / or visible light, wherein the UV-light may be UV-A light, and / or wherein the visible light may be violet light, and / or blue light and / or cyan light, such that violet light corresponds to a range of wavelengths between 380-250nm, blue light corresponds to a range of wavelengths between 450-485nm and cyan light corresponds to a range of wavelengths between 485nm-500nm.

[0042] In one embodiment, the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the radiation source may comprise electro-magnetic radiation comprising a wavelength of 405 nm. At least 50 %, preferably at least 80 %, still more preferably 90 % and most preferably at least 95 % of the electro-magnetic radiation may also comprise a wavelength of 405 + -5 nm and / or a wavelength of substantially 405 nm. The radiation source may also be configured for generating monochromatic light.

[0043] In another embodiment, the system may be configured for releasing the electro-magnetic radiation substantially evenly over a length of the tube. The system may also be configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the tube comprising a radiant energy density of 1 J / cm2- 300 J / cm2, more preferably 0.1 J / cm2to 1000 J / cm2, even more preferably 10 J / cm2- 80 J / cm2and most preferably around 50 J / cm2. The system may also be configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the tube comprising a radiant power density less than 25 mW / cm2, preferably in the range of 0.1 mW / cm2to 20 mW / cm2and most preferably in the range of 1 mW / cm2to 10 mW / cm2.

[0044] In a further embodiment, the system may be configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from at least part of the tube as described herein. The system may be configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from at least a target zone, wherein the target zone may be comprised in the tube as described herein. An example of target zone would be a 100 mm target irradiation zone after at least 200 mm from the proximal end. Such a target zone may optimize irradiation and prevent losses which represents an advantage for the current invention. The radiation target zone may be target-dependant, such as, but not limited to starting a few centimeters from the proximal end for a tube configured as a urinary catheter, a shorter target-zone for a tube configured as a brain catheter, a target-zone starting from the proximal end for a tube configured as a dialysis catheter. Additionally, the at least one target zone may be defined according to the position of the at least one scattering center comprised in the tube according to tube as described herein.

[0045] Furthermore, the target zone may comprise preferably a range of less than 50% of the length of the tube, preferably a range of 5% to 30% of the length of the tube, more preferably a range of 10% to 25% of the length of the tube. The target zone may alsocomprise a length in the range of less than 500 mm, preferably in the range of 20 mm to 200 mm, more preferably a length in the range of 50 mm to 100 mm, most preferably a length in the range of 50 mm to 100 mm, preferably in a tube of essentially 450mm of length. The target zone may be measured from the entry point of the tube into the body of the mammal towards the distal end of the tube. The target zone may further comprise a length in the range of 50mm to 100mm, measured from the entry point of the tube into the body of the mammal towards the proximal end of the tube.

[0046] Moreover, the system may be configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the target zone comprised in the tube, comprising a radiant energy density of 1 J / cm2to 1000 J / cm2, preferably a radiant energy density of 10 J / cm2- 60 J / cm2, more preferably a radiant energy density of 15 J / cm2. The system may also be configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the target zone comprised in the tube, comprising a radiant power density less than 25 mW / cm2, preferably in the range of 0.1 mW / cm2to 20 mW / cm2and most preferably in the range of 1 mW / cm2to 10 mW / cm2.

[0047] In one embodiment, the system may be configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from a distal secondary zone, wherein the distal secondary zone may be located along the length of the tube in between the target zone and the distal end of the tube. The system may also be configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from a proximal secondary zone, wherein the proximal secondary zone may be located along the length of the tube in between the target zone and the proximal end of the tube. The radiant energy density and / or the radiant power density of the UV-light and / or visible light released from the system from the distal secondary zone and / or proximal secondary zone, may further be independent of the radiant energy density and / or the radiant power density of the UV-light and / or visible light released from the system from the target zone.

[0048] In another embodiment, the system may be configured for intermittingly emitting the electro-magnetic radiation. The system may also be configured for intermittingly emitting the UV-A light, the violet light, the blue light and / or the cyan light. The radiation source may comprise at least one of a UV-A light emitting diode, and a laser configured for generating the UV-A light. The radiation source may also comprise at least one of a violet and / or blue and / or cyan light emitting diode, and a laser configured for generating the violet and / or blue and / or cyan light.

[0049] In a further embodiment, the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the radiation source may comprise visible light. At least a portion of the wall of the tube may also be configured for emitting the visible light. The radiation source may further comprise a component configured for generating the visible light, such as an LED.Furthermore, the radiation source may comprise a source-connector configured to connect the radiation source to the tube-connector. The source-connector may comprise a socket for receiving the plug of the tube-connector. The radiation source may also be configured to only provide radiation when the tube-connector and the source-connector may be in a connected state. The system may further comprise a safety switch configured for preventing the radiation source from providing radiation when the tube-connector and the source-connector may be not in a connected state. The source-connector may additionally comprise a plug configured to be plugged into the socket of the tube-connector.

[0050] Moreover, the radiation source may be configured to emit the electro-magnetic radiation in a pulsed way.

[0051] In a third aspect, the invention relates to a method for using the tube as described herein, wherein the method may comprise applying the tube to the body of a patient. The method further may comprise connecting the tube to a source of UV-light, and / or visible light. The method may also comprise collecting a bodily fluid by means of the tube, and / or introducing a liquid into a human body by means of the tube. The method may further comprise introducing a surgical instrument into a human body by means of the tube. The method using the system as described herein may comprise applying the tube of the system to the body of a patient. The method further may comprise connecting the tube to the radiation source.

[0052] The method may comprise collecting a bodily fluid by means of the tube of the system. The method may also comprise introducing a liquid into a human body by means of the tube of the system. The method may further comprise introducing the surgical instrument into the human body by means of the tube.

[0053] The method further may comprise connecting the system to the power source. The method may also comprise implementing an antimicrobial control method, wherein the antimicrobial control method may comprise generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). The method may further comprise testing the system as described herein, and / or testing the tube as described herein.

[0054] The method may additionally be a method for infection prevention and / or a method for infection treatment.

[0055] The present technology is also described by the following numbered embodiments.Below, tube embodiments will be discussed. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "T" followed by a number. When reference is herein made to a tube embodiment, those embodiments are meant.

[0056] Tl. A tube comprising

[0057] at least one lumen, and

[0058] a wall comprising at least one or a plurality of wave-guide(s),

[0059] wherein the wave-guide(s) are configured to conduct electro-magnetic radiation along the tube wherein the tube is configured to emit at least a part of the radiation into the lumen and / or to an outer surface of the tube.

[0060] T2. The tube according to the preceding embodiment wherein the wall comprises at least one inner surface and at least one outer surface wherein the at least one or plurality of waveguide(s) are comprised between the inner surface and the outer surface.

[0061] T3. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the wall encloses the at least one lumen.

[0062] T4. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the at least one lumen comprises a plurality of lumens.

[0063] T5. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) and the lumen are substantially parallel to each other.

[0064] T6. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment T2, wherein the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the inner surface is different than the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the outer surface.

[0065] T7. The tube according to any preceding embodiment with the features of embodiment T6, wherein the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the inner surface is preferably 0.1mm, and the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the outer surface is preferably 0.5 mm.

[0066] T8. The tube according to any preceding embodiment with the features of embodiment T6, wherein the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the inner surface is smaller than the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the outer surface.T9. The tube according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the wall of the tube is the wave-guide(s).

[0067] T10. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments wherein the waveguide^) is located within the lumen at least along a portion of the tube.

[0068] Til. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are side emitting.

[0069] T12. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment Til, wherein the side emitting feature of the wave-guide(s) is enabled via diffraction coating.

[0070] T13. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T8, wherein the wall is configured for transmitting at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the wave-guide(s) to the outer surface of the tube.

[0071] T14. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the outer surface of the tube is at least partially transparent to the electro-magnetic radiation.

[0072] T15. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are configured for side-emitting at least a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation into the wall.

[0073] T16. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment Til, wherein the wall is configured for transmitting at least a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the wave-guide(s) to at least one of the at least one lumen.

[0074] T17. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment Til, wherein the wall is configured for transmitting at least a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the wave-guide(s) to the at least one lumen.

[0075] T18. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube comprises a distal end configured for being introduced into a body of a mammal.

[0076] T19. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube comprises a proximal end comprising a connector.T20. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein each of the plurality of wave-guides are spaced from each other for over at least 50%, preferably at least 75% and still more preferably at least 90% of their length within a portion of the wall that is configured to be introduced into the body of the mammal.

[0077] T21. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the plurality of wave- guides is guided helically along a length of the tube.

[0078] 722. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of wave-guides are arranged substantially parallel to each other.

[0079] T23. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments but the preceding three, wherein the plurality of wave-guides is arranged as a chain.

[0080] T24. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of wave-guides is substantially mechanically held together.

[0081] T25. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of wave-guides enters a substantially formfitting connection.

[0082] T26. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of wave-guides enters a substantially non-positive connection.

[0083] T27. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of wave-guides enters a substantially substance-to-substance bonding.

[0084] T28. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are enclosed by the wall.

[0085] T29. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are non-detachable.

[0086] T30. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are permanently attached to at least a portion of the wall.

[0087] T31. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are flexible.T32. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are configured fortransmitting and / or side-emitting UV-light and / or visible light comprising a wave-length of 380 nm-500 nm, preferably 380 nm-460 nm, more preferably 390 nm-410nm.

[0088] T33. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are configured for transmitting and / or side-emitting visible light comprising a wave-length of 405 nm.

[0089] T34. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the wave-guides are configured fortransmitting and / or side-emitting visible light.

[0090] T35. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of Til, wherein the wave-guide(s) comprise a gradient of a side-emittance of the UV-light and / or visible light.

[0091] T36. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the side-emittance of the UV-light and / or visible light increases from the proximal to the distal end.

[0092] T37. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein each of the wave-guide(s) comprises an optic fiber.

[0093] T38. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the optic fiber comprises a silica fiber.

[0094] T39. The tube according to any of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the optic fiber comprises a high-OH silica core.

[0095] T40. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of Til and T37, wherein the wave-guide(s) are configured to be side-emitting by means of scattering centers.

[0096] T41. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of Til and T37, wherein the wave-guide(s) are configured to be side-emitting by means of by a partially removed cladding.

[0097] T42. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) comprise a liquid light guide, wherein the liquid light guide comprises acanal for a light guide liquid, wherein the canal comprises the light guide liquid.

[0098] T43. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the light guide liquid comprises a refractive index above a refractive index of the canal.

[0099] T44. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of Til and T41, wherein the inner surface of the canal of the wave-guide(s) is configured for side-emitting a portion of the electro-magnetic radiation.

[0100] T45. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the wall comprises a polymer.

[0101] T46. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the wall consists to at least 60%, preferably at least 70% and still more preferably at least 80% of the polymer.

[0102] T47. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T45, wherein the polymer is biocompatible.

[0103] T48. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T45, wherein the polymer is a thermoplastic.

[0104] T49. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T45, wherein the tube is flexible.

[0105] T50. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T45, wherein the polymer is UV-transparent, wherein a UV-transparent polymer is configured to allow UV light to pass-through.

[0106] T51. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T45, wherein the polymer is blue-light-transparent, wherein a blue-light-transparent polymer is configured to allow a range of wave-lengths to pass-through the polymer, wherein the range of wave-lengths comprise a range of 380 nm-500 nm, preferably 380 nm-460 nm, more preferably 390 nm-410nm, most preferably 405nm.

[0107] T52. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T45, wherein the polymer is transparent, wherein a transparent polymer is configured to allow visible light to pass-through.T53. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T45, wherein the polymer is a fluoropolymer.

[0108] T54. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the fluoropolymer is fluorinated ethylene-propylene.

[0109] T55. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the wall comprises silicone.

[0110] T56. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the wall comprises at least one elastomer.

[0111] T57. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the wall comprises a Young modulus in a range from 0.1 to 60 MPa.

[0112] T58. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments and with the features of T18, wherein the lumen comprises a cross-section area, wherein the cross-section area of the lumen comprises a negative gradient along the tube from the proximal to the distal end.

[0113] T59. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments and with the features of T18, wherein the wall of the tube comprises a cross-section area, and wherein the cross-section area of the tube comprises a negative gradient along the tube from the proximal to the distal end.

[0114] T60. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T18, wherein the tube comprises a diffusor at the distal end.

[0115] T61. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the diffusor is a spherical diffusor.

[0116] T62. The tube according to any of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the diffusor is configured for scattering the UV-light and / or visible light into a hollow organ of the body of the mammal, such as the bladder.

[0117] T63. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube comprises a fluorescent element.T64. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the fluorescent element is fluorescent under UV-light and / or visible light, preferably under UV-light and / or visible light comprising a wavelength of 380 nm-500 nm, preferably 380 nm-460 nm, more preferably 390 nm - 410 nm, most preferably under a wavelength of 405 nm.

[0118] T65. The tube according to any of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the fluorescent element extends circumferentially around a portion of the tube.

[0119] T66. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T63, wherein the fluorescent element is stripe-shaped.

[0120] T67. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube is a catheter.

[0121] T68. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube is a drain.

[0122] T69. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube is an infusion tube.

[0123] T70. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the lumen is configured for guiding at least one of a medical tool and a medical sample.

[0124] T71. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide^) are configured for transmitting radiation configured for spectroscopy analysis of the mammal.

[0125] T72. The tube according to the preceding embodiment and with the features of T60, wherein the diffusor is configured for scattering the light configured for the spectroscopy analysis, such as infrared light.

[0126] T73. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube comprises a sensor.

[0127] T74. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments and with the features of T18, wherein the sensor is located at or next to the distal end of the tube.

[0128] T75. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments and with the features ofT73, wherein the sensor comprises at least one of

[0129] • a camera,

[0130] • a temperature-sensing unit,

[0131] • a pH value-sensing unit,

[0132] • a pulse rate-sensing unit,

[0133] • a pressure-sensing unit,

[0134] • a blood sugar-sensing unit, and

[0135] • a sensing unit configured for blood gas-analysis.

[0136] T76. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube comprises a tube-connector.

[0137] T77. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the tube-connector is configured to connect the wave-guide(s) to a radiation source.

[0138] T78. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the tube-connector comprises a socket.

[0139] T79. The tube according to any of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the tubeconnector is configured for receiving an optic fiber cable from the radiation source.

[0140] T80. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T77 apart from T78 and T79, wherein the tube-connector comprises a plug.

[0141] T81. The tube according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the plug is configured to be inserted into a socket of a light source, and wherein the plug is connected to the wave-guide(s).

[0142] T82. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T77, wherein the tube-connector is configured for connecting at least one of the at least one lumen with a drain for fluid, such as a collector bag.

[0143] T83. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T77, wherein the tube-connector is configured for connecting at least one of the at least one lumen with a source of fluid.

[0144] T84. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T77 and T73, wherein the tube is configured for transmitting a read-out of the sensor to the connector.T85. The tube according to any preceding embodiment wherein the at least one waveguide is embedded in the tube.

[0145] T86. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide(s) comprises a hardened optical grade elastomer waveguide.

[0146] T87. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide(s) comprises hardened liquid polymer silicone.

[0147] T88. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide(s) comprises at least one scattering center.

[0148] T89. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the wall of the tube comprises at least one scattering center.

[0149] T90. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of T35, wherein the gradient of a side-emittance of the UV-light and / or visible light is generated by means of at least one scattering center.

[0150] T91. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments wherein the tube and / or waveguide(s) comprises a fiber coating.

[0151] T92. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tube is a dialysis catheter

[0152] T93. The tube according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the waveguide(s) is wrapped around the lumen.

[0153] Below, system embodiments will be discussed. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "S" followed by a number. When reference is herein made to a system embodiment, those embodiments are meant.

[0154] SI. A system, comprising the tube according to any of the tube embodiments, and further comprising a radiation source configured for emitting electro-magnetic radiation.

[0155] S2. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the radiation source comprises UV-light and / or visible light.53. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the UV-light is UV- A light.

[0156] 54. The system according to embodiment S2, wherein the visible light is violet light, and / or blue light and / or cyan light.

[0157] 55. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the radiation source comprises electromagnetic radiation comprising a wavelength of 405 nm.

[0158] 56. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein at least 50 %, preferably at least 80 %, still more preferably 90 % and most preferably at least 95 % of the electro-magnetic radiation comprise a wavelength of 405 + -5 nm.

[0159] 57. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein at least 50 %, preferably at least 80 %, still more preferably 90 % and most preferably at least 95 % of the electro-magnetic radiation comprise a wavelength of substantially 405 nm.

[0160] 58. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of S2, wherein the radiation source is configured for generating monochromatic light.

[0161] 59. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S2, wherein the system is configured for releasing the electro-magnetic radiation substantially evenly over a length of the tube.

[0162] 510. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S2, wherein the tube is according to any of the tube embodiments with the features of Til, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the tube comprising a radiant energy density of 1 J / cm2- 300 J / cm2.

[0163] 511. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the tube comprising a radiant energy density of 0.1 J / cm2to 1000 J / cm2.

[0164] 512. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the system isconfigured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the tube comprising a radiant energy density of 10 J / cm2- 80 J / cm2.

[0165] 513. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the tube comprising a radiant energy density of around 50 J / cm2.

[0166] 514. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the tube comprising a radiant power density less than 25 mW / cm2, preferably in the range of 0.1 mW / cm2to 20 mW / cm2and most preferably in the range of 1 mW / cm2to 10 mW / cm2.

[0167] 515. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from at least part of the tube according to any of the preceding tube embodiments.

[0168] 516. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from at least a target zone, wherein the target zone is comprised in the tube according to any preceding tube embodiment.

[0169] 517. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment S16, wherein the target zone comprises preferably a range of less than 50% of the length of the tube.

[0170] 518. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment S16, wherein the target zone comprises preferably a range of 5% to 30% of the length of the tube.

[0171] 519. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment S16, wherein the target zone comprises preferably a range of 10% to 25% of the length of the tube.

[0172] 520. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment S16, wherein the target zone comprises a length in the range of less than 500 mm.

[0173] 521. The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features ofembodiment S16, wherein the target zone comprises a length in the range of 20 mm to 200 mm.

[0174] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment S16, wherein the target zone comprises a length in the range of 50 mm to 100 mm.

[0175] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment S16, wherein the target zone comprises a length in the range of 50 mm to 100 mm, preferably in a tube of essentially 450 mm of length.

[0176] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment S16 and tube embodiments T18, wherein the target zone comprises a length in the range of 50mm to 100mm, measured from the entry point of the tube into the body of the mammal towards the distal end of the tube.

[0177] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiment S16 and tube embodiments T19, wherein the target zone comprises a length in the range of 50mm to 100mm, measured from the entry point of the tube into the body of the mammal towards the proximal end of the tube.

[0178] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiments S10 and S16, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the target zone comprised in the tube, comprising a radiant energy density of 1 J / cm2to 1000 J / cm2.

[0179] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiments S10 and S16, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the target zone comprised in the tube, comprising a radiant energy density of 10 J / cm2- 60 J / cm2.

[0180] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of embodiments S10 and S16, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the target zone comprised in the tube, comprising a radiant energy density of 15 J / cm2.

[0181] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S16, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from the target zone comprised in the tube, comprising a radiantpower density less than 25 mW / cm2, preferably in the range of 0.1 mW / cm2to 20 mW / cm2and most preferably in the range of 1 mW / cm2to 10 mW / cm2.

[0182] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S16 and tube embodiment T18, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from a distal secondary zone, wherein the distal secondary zone is located along the length of the tube in between the target zone and the distal end of the tube.

[0183] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment S16 and tube embodiment T19, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from a proximal secondary zone, wherein the proximal secondary zone is located along the length of the tube in between the target zone and the proximal end of the tube.

[0184] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments S30 and / or S31, wherein the radiant energy density and / or the radiant power density of the UV-light and / or visible light released from the system from the distal secondary zone and / or proximal secondary zone, is independent of the radiant energy density and / or the radiant power density of the UV-light and / or visible light released from the system from the target zone.

[0185] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the system is configured for intermittingly emitting the electro-magnetic radiation.

[0186] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S3, wherein the system is configured for intermittingly emitting the UV-A light.

[0187] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S4, wherein the system is configured for intermittingly emitting the violet light and / or blue light and / or cyan light.

[0188] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S3, wherein the radiation source comprises at least one of a UV-A light emitting diode, and a laser configured for generating the UV-A light.

[0189] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S4, wherein the radiation source comprises at least one of a violetand / or blue and / or cyan light emitting diode, and a laser configured for generating the violet and / or blue and / or cyan light

[0190] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the electro-magnetic radiation emitted by the radiation source comprises visible light.

[0191] The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein at least a portion of the wall of the tube is configured for emitting the visible light.

[0192] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S38, wherein the radiation source comprises a component configured for generating the visible light, such as an LED.

[0193] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the tube is according to any of the tube embodiments with the features of T77, wherein the radiation source comprises a source-connector configured to connect the radiation source to the tube-connector.

[0194] The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the tube is according to any of the tube embodiments with the features of T80, wherein the sourceconnector comprises a socket for receiving the plug of the tube-connector.

[0195] The system according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of S41, wherein the radiation source is configured to only provide radiation when the tube-connector and the source-connector are in a connected state.

[0196] The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the system comprises a safety switch configured for preventing the radiation source from providing radiation when the tube-connector and the source-connector are not in a connected state.

[0197] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S41, wherein the source-connector comprises a plug configured to be plugged into the socket of the tube-connector.

[0198] The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the radiation source is configured to emit the electro-magnetic radiation in a pulsed way.S47. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments with the features of S16, wherein the at least one target zone is defined according to the position of the at least one scattering center comprised in the tube according to any of the preceding tube embodiments with the features of T88 and / or T89.

[0199] Below, method embodiments will be discussed. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "M" followed by a number. When reference is herein made to a method embodiment, those embodiments are meant.

[0200] Ml. A method for using the tube according to any of the tube embodiments, comprising applying the tube to the body of a patient.

[0201] M2. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method further comprises connecting the tube to a source of UV-light.

[0202] M3. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method further comprises connecting the tube to a source of visible light.

[0203] M4. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises collecting a bodily fluid by means of the tube.

[0204] M5. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises introducing a liquid into a human body by means of the tube.

[0205] M6. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises introducing a surgical instrument into a human body by means of the tube.

[0206] M7. A method for using the system according to any of the system embodiments, comprising applying the tube of the system to the body of a patient.

[0207] M8. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the method further comprises connecting the tube to the radiation source.

[0208] M9. The method according to any of the two preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises collecting a bodily fluid by means of the tube of the system.

[0209] MIO. The method according to any of the three preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises introducing a liquid into a human body by meansof the tube of the system.

[0210] Mil. The method according to any of the four preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises introducing the surgical instrument into the human body by means of the tube.

[0211] M12. The method according to any of the five preceding embodiments, wherein the method further comprises connecting the system to the power source.

[0212] M13. The method according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the method comprises implementing an antimicrobial control method.

[0213] M14. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises testing the system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, and / or testing the tube according to any of the preceding tube embodiments.

[0214] M15. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment M13, wherein the antimicrobial control method comprises generating reactive oxygen species (ROS).

[0215] M16. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wheren the method is a method for infection prevention.

[0216] M17. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method is a method for infection treatment.

[0217] Brief Figure Description

[0218] It is noted that not all the drawings carry all the reference signs. Instead, in some of the drawings, some of the reference signs have been omitted for sake of brevity and simplicity of illustration. Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0219] Fig. 1 shows an example of the use of the system and / or tube according to embodiments of the present invention;

[0220] Fig. 2 shows a portion of a catheter;

[0221] Fig. 3 shows a portion of a catheter;

[0222] Fig. 4 shows details of a connector;Fig. 5 shows a cross-section of an embodiment of a medical tube;

[0223] Fig. 6 shows another cross-section of an embodiment of the medical tube;

[0224] Fig. 7 shows an example of the system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0225] Detailed Figure Description

[0226] While in the above, a preferred embodiment has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the skilled person will understand that this embodiment was provided for illustrative purpose only and should by no means be construed to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the claims.

[0227] Fig. 1 depicts a tube 100 and a tube connector 200. The tube 100 may comprise a proximal end 112 and a distal end 118. The tube 100, operating as a brain catheter in Fig. 1, is inserted in the brain via the skin layer 520, the skull 530, brain tissue 540, and reaches a ventricle 550. The part 518 of the tube 100 in contact with the ventricle 550 may comprise a length of 20 mm to 30 mm. The part 516 of the tube 100 in contact with brain tissue 540 may comprise a length of 20 mm to 40 mm. The part 514 of the tube 100 in contact with the skull may comprise a length of 5mm to 12 mm. The part 512 of the tube 100 outside of the body of the mammal may comprise a length of 220 mm to 200mm.

[0228] In use, the proximal end 112, connected to tube connector 200, may be connected to a container, such as a collector bag.

[0229] In other cases, the catheter may be introduced in other parts of the human body to perform other functions.

[0230] Catheters may increase a risk of nosocomial infections. Bacteria and viruses may be propagated by the introduced catheter into a patient's body and result into infections there, such as infections of the insertion site and more.

[0231] The catheter 100 may comprise a wave-guide (not shown) which transmits electromagnetic waves, e.g. blue light. The wave-guide then causes the waves to be transmitted to at least one of an outer surface of the catheter 100, the distal end 118 of the catheter, and / or a target zone (not shown) comprised in tube 100. The electro-magnetic radiation may then irradiate present bacteria and / or viruses that may cause an infection. Said viruses and / or bacteria may thus be inactivated. The electro-magnetic radiation may particularly be blue light-radiation. The 405nm wavelength of the blue light-radiation can achieve similar outcomes to UV-C radiation in terms of disinfection without damaginghuman tissue. The disinfection effect arises from the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), unlike the disinfection effect of UV-C light, which is due to DNA damage.

[0232] The radiation comprises a wavelength of 405 nm. A wavelength of 405 nm may be optionally advantageous as discussed by Leanse, L.G. et al. and Huang, S. et al. (see above). In particular, such radiation exhibits high selectivity, affecting bacterial cells significantly more than mammalian cells.

[0233] Fig. 2 depicts a tube 100, comprised in a catheter and a tube connector 200. The tube 100 of diameter AA, comprises a wall 130 enclosing at least one lumen (not shown) which is configured to conduct a fluid, such as a bodily fluid or a fluid to be introduced into the human body.

[0234] The tube 100 may comprise tube connector 200 which is configured for connecting the tube 100 to at least one of a radiation source 300 and an intake 400 of a liquid container, such as a collector bag, or an outlet 400 of a fluid source. The radiation source 300 may be connected to tube connector 200 via source connector 370 and wave-guide 340 if the source 300.

[0235] Fig. 3 depicts tube 100 and tube-connector 200 configured for connecting the tube 100 to at least one of a radiation source 300 and an intake 400 of a liquid container, such as a collector bag, or an outlet 400 of a fluid source. The radiation source 300 may be connected to tube connector 200 via source connector 370 and wave-guide 340 if the source 300.

[0236] The tube 100 may comprise a proximal end 112 and a distal end 118. From proximal end 112 to distal end 118, the tube may comprise multiple zones such as proximal secondary zone 113, target zone 116 and distal secondary zone 119. UV-light and / or visible light may be released form the target zone 116. The radiant energy density and / or the radiant power density of the UV-light and / or visible light released from the target zone 116, may be different from, the radiant energy density and / or the radiant power density of the UV-light and / or visible light released from the distal secondary zone 119 and / or proximal secondary zone 113.

[0237] Fig. 4 shows a detail of the catheter of Fig. 2-3. The catheter comprises a tube-connector 200. The tube-connector comprises a portion 290 of the lumen 190. Also, the wall 230 enclosing the lumen 190 can be seen. Further, the wave-guide 160 can be seen, as well as a portion of the wave-guide that the tube-connector comprises. The tube-connector 200 may be a part of the tube 100, or the tube connector may be releasable from the tube 100.Further, a source-connector 370 configured for connecting the tube 100 to the radiation source 300 is shown in Fig. 4. In the example of Fig. 4, the source-connector 370 comprises a wave-guide transmitting electro-magnetic radiation from the source to the tube 100.

[0238] The tube-connector 200 comprises a portion 260 of the wave-guide 160 of the tube 100. Further, the intake of the fluid container / outlet of the fluid source 400 is shown.

[0239] Fig. 5 shows an exemplary cross-section A-A of the tube 10, as indicated in Fig. 3. In the cross-section, the wall 130 and the wave-guide 160 can be seen. Even though Fig. 5 only shows one wave-guide 160, there may be a plurality of wave-guides 160 in parallel or one after another. As can be seen, the wall 130 encloses the at least one lumen 190.

[0240] The wall may be configured for transmitting the electro-magnetic radiation, particularly UV light, violet-light, blue-light and / or cyan light. The wall may comprise a polymer configured for transmitting UV-radiation, violet-radiation, blue-light and / or cyan, such as FEP.

[0241] The wave-guide 160 may be configured for laterally emitting the electro-magnetic radiation. In other words, the wave-guide may be side-emitting. The wave-guide or waveguides 8 may each comprise an optic fiber.

[0242] The side-emitting feature of the wave-guides may be achieved by means of scattering centers, or by removing a cladding of the optic fibers.

[0243] Thus, optionally advantageously, the electro-magnetic radiation may be transmitted to the outer surface of the tube 100 and / or into the lumen 190 of the tube 100.

[0244] Additionally, the distance between the wave-guide and the outer surface 140 may be greater than the distance between the wave-guide and the inner surface 170. More particularly, the distance 140 may be preferably 0.5mm and the distance 170 may be 0.1 mm. This placement may be done to enhance light distribution.

[0245] Fig. 6 shows a cross-section of a portion of the medical tube in an embodiment where a cross-section of the wall 130 of the medical tube comprises a negative gradient from proximal 112 to the distal end 118. This may be optionally advantageous, as thus, the decreasing intensity along the length of the tube may be compensated and a more homogenous irradiation of the inside as well as the outside of the catheter may optionally be achieved.Fig. 7 shows an exemplary system according to the present invention comprising the tube 100, the radiation source 300, the wave-guide 340 of the radiation source 300, and the source-connector 370. In particular, Fig. 7 depicts how the tube 100 may be connected to the radiation source 300 by means of the source-connector 370 and the wave-guide 340.

[0246] While in the above, a preferred embodiment has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the skilled person will understand that this embodiment was provided for illustrative purpose only and should by no means be construed to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the claims.

[0247] Whenever a relative term, such as "about", "substantially" or "approximately" is used in this specification, such a term should also be construed to also include the exact term. That is, e.g., "substantially straight" should be construed to also include "(exactly) straight".

[0248] Whenever steps were recited in the above or also in the appended claims, it should be noted that the order in which the steps are recited in this text may be accidental. That is, unless otherwise specified or unless clear to the skilled person, the order in which steps are recited may be accidental. That is, when the present document states, e.g., that a method comprises steps (A) and (B), this does not necessarily mean that step (A) precedes step (B), but it is also possible that step (A) is performed (at least partly) simultaneously with step (B) or that step (B) precedes step (A). Furthermore, when a step (X) is said to precede another step (Z), this does not imply that there is no step between steps (X) and (Z). That is, step (X) preceding step (Z) encompasses the situation that step (X) is performed directly before step (Z), but also the situation that (X) is performed before one or more steps (Yl), ..., followed by step (Z). Corresponding considerations apply when terms like "after" or "before" are used.Numbered reference signs

[0249] 100 Tube

[0250] 112 Proximal end

[0251] 113 Proximal secondary zone

[0252] 116 Target zone

[0253] 118 Distal end

[0254] 119 Distal secondary zone

[0255] 130 Wall

[0256] 140 Distance between the wave-guide and the outer surface 160 Wave-guide of the tube

[0257] 170 Distance between the wave-guide and the inner surface 190 Lumen

[0258] 200 Tube-connector

[0259] 230 Wall of tube connector

[0260] 290 Lumen of the tube-connector

[0261] 260 Wave-guide of the tube-connector

[0262] 300 Light source

[0263] 340 Wave-guide of the source

[0264] 370 Source-connector

[0265] 400 Connection to container

[0266] 520 Skin Layer

[0267] 530 Skull

[0268] 540 Brain tissue

[0269] 550 Ventricle of the brain

[0270] 512 Area outside the body - 220 mm to 200 mm

[0271] 514 Skull - 5 mm to 12 mm

[0272] 516 contact with brain tissue: 20 mm to 40 mm

[0273] 518 part of catheter in the ventricle of the brain 20 mm to 30 mmReferences:

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[0275] [2] Huang S; Lin S;Qin H; Jiang H; Liu M. The Parameters Affecting Antimicrobial efficiency of antimicrobial blue light therapy: A review and prospect. Biomedicines, 2023,11,1197.

[0276] [3] Lawrence C; Waechter S; Alsanius BW. Blue Light Inhibits E. coli, but Decisive Parameters Remain Hidden in the Dark: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Frontiers in Microbiology, 2022,13.

[0277] [4] Maclean M; McKenzie K; Anderson JG; Gettinby G; MacGregor SJ. 405 nm light technology for the inactivation of pathogens and its potential role for environmental disinfection and infection control. Journal of Hospital Infection, 2014,88,1-11.

[0278] [5] Dai T; Gupta A; Murray CK; Vrahas MS; Tegos GP; Hamblin MR. Blue light for infectious diseases: Propionibacterium acnes, Helicobacter pylori, and beyond? Drug Resistance Updates, 2012,15,223-36.

[0279] [6] Tomb RM; White TA; Coia JE; Anderson JG; MacGregor SJ; Maclean M. Review of the Comparative Susceptibility of Microbial Species to Photoinactivation Using 380-480 nm Violet-Blue Light. Photochemistry and Photobiology, 2018,94,445- 58.

[0280] [7] McMullan P; White AB; Coker O; Opal S; McGee SA; Rogers G. Antimicrobial efficacy of continuous Low-Irradiance phototherapy against Multidrug-Resistant organisms. Photobiomodulation Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 2022,40,613- 21.

[0281] [8] Dai T; Gupta A; Murray CK; Vrahas MS; Tegos GP; Hamblin MR. Blue light for infectious diseases: Propionibacterium acnes, Helicobacter pylori, and beyond? Drug Resistance Updates, 2012,15,223-36.[9] Maclean M; MacGregor SJ; Anderson JG; Woolsey G. Inactivation of Bacterial Pathogens following Exposure to Light from a 405-Nanometer Light-Emitting Diode Array. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 2009,75,1932-7.

[0282]

[0010] McGee SA; White AB; McMullan P; Serena T; Rogers G. The First In-Human Application of Continuous Low-Irradiance Phototherapy for Chronic Wounds: a pilot study. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023,22,1111-7.

[0283]

[0011] Murdoch LE; Maclean M; Endarko E; MacGregor SJ; Anderson JG. Bactericidal Effects of 405 nm Light Exposure Demonstrated by Inactivation of Escherichia, Salmonella, Shigella, Listeria, and Mycobacterium Species in Liquid Suspensions and on Exposed Surfaces. The Scientific World JOURNAL, 2012,2012,1-8.

Claims

Claims1. A tube comprisingat least one lumen, anda wall comprising at least one or a plurality of wave-guide(s),wherein the wall encloses the at least one lumen,wherein the tube comprises a distal end configured for being introduced into a body of a mammal, and a proximal end comprising a connector,wherein the wave-guide(s) are configured to conduct electro-magnetic radiation along the tube wherein the tube is configured to emit at least a part of the radiation into the lumen and / or to an outer surface of the tube, andwherein the wave-guide(s) are configured for transmitting and / or side-emitting UV-light and / or visible light comprising a wave-length of 380 nm-500 nm, preferably 380 nm-460 nm, more preferably 390 nm-410nm.wherein the wall comprises a polymer, wherein the polymer is UV-transparent and blue- light-transparent, wherein a UV-transparent polymer is configured to allow UV light to pass-through, and wherein a blue-light-transparent polymer is configured to allow a range of wave-lengths to pass-through the polymer, wherein the range of wave-lengths comprise a range of 380 nm-500 nm, preferably 380 nm-460 nm, more preferably 390 nm-410nm.

2. The tube according to the preceding claim, wherein the wave-guide(s) are permanently attached to at least a portion of the wall, wherein each of the waveguide^) comprises an optic fiber.

3. The tube according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the optic fiber comprises a silica core.

4. The tube according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wave-guide(s) comprise a liquid light guide, wherein the liquid light guide comprises a canal for a light guide liquid, wherein the canal comprises the light guide liquid.

5. The tube according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wave-guide(s) are side emitting, wherein the wave-guide(s) comprise a gradient of a side-emittance of the UV-light and / or visible light and wherein the side-emittance of the UV-light and / or visible light increases from the proximal to the distal end.

6. The tube according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tube comprises a diffusor at the distal end, and wherein the diffusor is a spherical diffusor.

7. The tube according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tube comprises a fluorescent element.

8. The tube according to any of the preceding claims wherein the tube is a catheter and / or a drain and / or an infusion tube and / or a dialysis catheter.

9. The tube according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tube comprises a tube-connector, and wherein the tube-connector is configured to connect the wave-guide(s) to a radiation source.

10. The tube according to any of the preceding claims wherein the at least one or plurality of waveguide(s) are comprised between an inner surface and an outer surface of the wall, wherein the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the inner surface is different than the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the outer surface, wherein the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the inner surface is smaller than the distance between the wave-guide(s) and the outer surface.

11. A system, comprising the tube according to any of the preceding claims, and further comprising a radiation source configured for emitting electro-magnetic radiation, wherein the electro-magnetic radiation comprises UV-light and / or visible light, wherein the UV-light is UV-A light and wherein the visible light is violet light, and / or blue light and / or cyan light.

12. The system according to the preceding system claim, wherein at least 50 %, preferably at least 80 %, still more preferably 90 % and most preferably at least 95 % of the electro-magnetic radiation comprise a wavelength of 405 + -5 nm.

13. The system according to any of the preceding system claims, wherein the system is configured for releasing the electro-magnetic radiation substantially evenly over a length of the tube, wherein the system is configured for intermittingly emitting the electro-magnetic radiation, wherein the system is configured for intermittingly emitting the UV-A light and / or the violet light and / or blue light and / or cyan light.

14. The system according to any of the preceding claims 11-13, comprising the tube according to claim 9, wherein the tube-connector comprises a socket, wherein the radiation source comprises a source-connector configured to connect the radiation source to the tube-connector, and wherein the source-connector comprises a plug configured to be plugged into the socket of the tube-connector.

15. The system according to any of the preceding claims 11-14, wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from at least a target zone, wherein the target zone is comprised in the tube according to any preceding tube claim, wherein the target zone comprises a length in the range of 50mm to 100mm, measured from the entry point of the tube into the body of the mammal towards the distal end of the tube, and / or wherein the target zone comprises a length in the range of 50mm to 100mm, measured from the entry point of the tube into the body of the mammal towards the proximal end of the tube, and wherein the system is configured for releasing UV-light and / or visible light from a distal secondary zone and / or proximal secondary zone, wherein the distal secondary zone is located along the length of the tube in between the target zone and the distal end of the tube and the proximal secondary zone is located along the length of the tube in between the target zone and the proximal end of the tube, and wherein the radiant energy density and / or the radiant power density of the UV-light and / or visible light released from the system from the distal secondary zone and / or proximal secondary zone, is independent of the radiant energy density and / orthe radiant power density of the UV-light and / or visible light released from the system from the target zone.

16. A method for using the tube according to any of the claims 1-10, comprising applying the tube to the body of a patient.

17. A method for using the system according to any of the claims 11-14, comprising applying the tube of the system to the body of a patient.

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