Patent ID: 8245487
Filing Date: 2012-08-21
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for receiving a sterilizable item and allowing for aseptic introduction of the sterilizable item after sterilization, said apparatus comprising: a first sleeve that is an elongated pouch, said first sleeve has an open end and a closed end opposite said open end, said first sleeve being permeable to steam; and a second sleeve attached to said first sleeve, said second sleeve being permeable to steam, said second sleeve proximate said closed end of first sleeve, said second sleeve dimensioned to fully enclose the sterilizable item when the sterilizable item is proximate said closed end, said first sleeve having a length between said closed end and said open end sufficient for said first sleeve to form a cuff with said open end of said first sleeve between a closed end of said second sleeve and an open end of said second sleeve, said length sufficient for a distal end of said cuff to be tucked into and retained within a space defined by said open end of said first sleeve and said second sleeve when the item is inside said first sleeve, said space defined by an inside surface of said first sleeve with an entirety of said inside surface being permeable to steam from an outside surface of said second sleeve, wherein the item, when inside said first sleeve proximate said closed end of said first sleeve, is exposed to steam that penetrates said first and second sleeves; and wherein the apparatus is permeable to steam across an entire surface to which the sterilizable item is exposed.