Patent ID: 7138087
Filing Date: 2006-11-21
Classification: A61B,A61L

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for reprocessing a flexible endoscope, wherein the endoscope has an external surface and a lumen, comprising: an enclosure having a reprocessing bay therein for receiving the endoscope; a steam source providing steam in fluid communication with the reprocessing bay; a fluid sprayer in fluid communication with the steam source for spraying steam with a controlled heat content onto the external surface of the endoscope; and a fluid conduit in fluid communication with the steam source and configured to allow steam from the steam source having a controlled heat content to flow through the fluid conduit into the lumen of the endoscope with the heat content of the steam applied to the external surface of the endoscope and the lumen of the endoscope controlled to limit differential thermal expansion of the endoscope.