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 . An apparatus for sterilizing a lumen, comprising a booster and a connecting device between the booster and the lumen, wherein the connecting device comprises a silicone material. 
     
     
         2 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the connecting device comprises textured or uneven surfaces. 
     
     
         3 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the booster comprises a vessel containing an antimicrobial fluid. 
     
     
         4 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , wherein the booster is a dry booster. 
     
     
         5 . An apparatus for sterilizing a lumen, comprising a dry booster and a connecting device between the dry booster and the lumen, wherein the lumen contacts the connecting device at a contact area and wherein the contact area is adapted to enhance penetration of an antimicrobial vapor or gas to the contact area. 
     
     
         6 . The apparatus of  claim 5 , wherein the connecting device is constructed from a material, at least in the contact area, that is permeable to the antimicrobial vapor or gas. 
     
     
         7 . The apparatus of  claim 5 , wherein the surface of the connecting device in the contact area is textured or uneven. 
     
     
         8 . The apparatus of  claim 5 , wherein the dry booster encloses an internal volume that is greater than the internal volume of the lumen. 
     
     
         9 . The apparatus of  claim 5 , wherein the dry booster comprises a flow restrictor. 
     
     
         10 . The apparatus of  claim 5 , wherein the dry booster comprises a check valve. 
     
     
         11 - 24 . (canceled) 
     
     
         25 . An apparatus for sterilizing a lumen, comprising a booster and a connecting device between the booster and the lumen, wherein the lumen contacts the connecting device at a contact area and wherein the connecting device comprises an uneven or textured surface in the contact area. 
     
     
         26 . The apparatus of  claim 25 , wherein the connecting device is constructed from a material, at least in the contact area, that is permeable to the antimicrobial vapor or gas. 
     
     
         27 . The apparatus of  claim 25 , wherein the booster comprises a vessel containing an antimicrobial fluid. 
     
     
         28 . The apparatus of  claim 25 , wherein the booster is a dry booster.