Patent Publication Number: US-2017354474-A1

Title: Tee probe container

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIORITY APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/347,838 entitled “TEE Probe Container” filed Jun. 9, 2016, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to, in general, operation and maintenance of transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) probes, endoscopes, medical/surgical probes and other medical instruments. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Echocardiogram, often referred to as a cardiac echo, or simply an echo, is a sonogram of the heart. This imaging technique takes on a number of forms, one of which is the TEE, as discussed above. TEE imaging offers some advantages over other cardiac imaging techniques as it allows the ultrasound probe to be placed within a patient&#39;s chest cavity in close proximity to the patient&#39;s heart. Other techniques, such as the transthoracic echocardiogram, or TTE, are more common, but utilize an ultrasound device designed to image the heart from outside the chest cavity. These devices use ultrasound waves that must traverse skin, fat, ribs, and lungs before reflecting off the heart and back to the probe. Since the heart rests directly upon the esophagus, the TEE transducer probe is situated in a better position to provide a clear sonogram image, as the ultrasound beam must only travel millimeters during the TEE probe operation. The TEE comparatively reduces attenuation of the ultrasound signal, which ultimately enhances image quality. A TEE probe typically contains an elongated probe or an elongated probe shaft with a transducer device at its tip that is inserted into the patient&#39;s esophagus, thereby placing the ultrasound device in close proximity to the heart and allowing the heart to be imaged in detail. 
     There is a need for systems and methods to streamline the sanitary use and practical utilization of the TEE probe such that the TEE probe may be easily and economically transported, sanitized, and reused. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     The following presents a simplified summary of one or more embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of such embodiments. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated embodiments, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all embodiments, nor delineate the scope of any or all embodiments. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. 
     Embodiments of the invention are directed to the design and methods for using a TEE probe container. The invention generally embodies a container designed to receive a TEE probe and its various components, as well as a planar lid configured to removably enclose the container surface. Furthermore, the container surface might contain lid fasteners in some embodiments that may be arranged in any number of known combinations that are possible to provide complimentary designs for the position of the fasteners complimentary to the design of a reversible, planar lid. As such, in some embodiments, the TEE Probe container comprises: a container configured for receiving a TEE Probe, the container comprising a first container surface and an opposing second container surface; a lid configured to removably enclose the first container surface of the container; wherein the container comprises: a first depression positioned on the first container surface configured for receiving the TEE probe; a second depression positioned on the first container surface configured for receiving a sponge; a third depression positioned on the first container surface configured for receiving a mouthpiece; and a fourth depression positioned on the first container surface configured for receiving a flexible probe cover that is configured to at least partially cover the TEE probe (for example, the flexible probe cover/sleeve is configured to cover the TEE probe shaft). In alternative embodiments, the TEE Probe container comprises: a container configured for receiving a TEE Probe, the container comprising a first container surface and an opposing second container surface; a planar lid configured to removably enclose the first container surface of the container; wherein the container comprises: a first depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving the TEE probe; a second depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving a sponge; and a third depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving a mouthpiece. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with the previous embodiment, the container further comprises a guard positioned on and extending along a perimeter of the first container surface. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first depression, the second depression, the third depression, and the fourth depression are discrete. In alternative embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first depression, the second depression and the third depression are discrete. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the TEE Probe Container further comprises a flexible probe cover or the flexible sleeve configured to encase at least a portion of the TEE probe, for example the TEE probe shaft. In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the flexible probe cover is configured to encase the pre-patient use TEE Probe. In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the TEE probe container of claim  1 , the flexible probe cover is configured to encase the post-patient use TEE Probe. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the TEE Probe Container further comprises a flexible container bag configured to encase the container. In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the TEE Probe Container further comprises a flexible lid bag configured to encase the lid. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the lid is operatively coupled to the container through one or more fastening members, wherein the fastening members comprise mating protrusions and apertures, groove elements and tab projections, groove elements and a portions of the edges of the lid, or recesses on walls of cavities of the container and tab projections on the lid. 
     In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, the TEE Probe container, comprises: a container configured for receiving a TEE Probe, the container comprising a first container surface and an opposing second container surface, wherein the container comprises: one or more depressions positioned on the first surface; and a guard positioned on an extending along the perimeter of the first container surface; a planar lid configured to removably enclose the first container surface of the container. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the one or more depressions comprise: a first depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving the TEE probe; a second depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving a sponge; a third depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving a mouthpiece; and a fourth depression positioned on the first container surface for receiving a flexible probe cover/sleeve that is configured to cover at least a portion of the TEE probe. For instance, the flexible probe cover/sleeve is configured to cover the TEE probe shaft. Alternatively, in some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the one or more depressions comprise: a first depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving the TEE probe; a second depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving a sponge; and a third depression positioned of the first container surface configured for receiving a mouthpiece. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first depression, the second depression, the third depression, and the fourth depression are discrete. In alternative embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first depression, the second depression and the third depression are discrete. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the TEE Probe Container further comprises a flexible container bag configured to encase at least a portion of the TEE probe, for example, the TEE probe shaft. Alternatively, in some embodiments, or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the TEE Probe Container further comprises a flexible container bag configured to encase the container. 
     In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a method of using a TEE Probe container configured for transporting a TEE Probe comprises: providing a TEE probe container comprising: a container configured for receiving a TEE Probe, the container comprising a first container surface and an opposing second container surface and one or more depressions positioned on the first surface; and a planar lid configured to removably enclose the first container surface of the container; enclosing the TEE probe shaft with a flexible probe cover/sleeve; and assembling the lid and the container. Alternatively, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a method of using a TEE Probe container configured for transporting a TEE Probe comprises: providing a TEE probe container comprising: a container configured for receiving a TEE Probe, the container comprising a first container surface and an opposing second container surface and one or more depressions positioned on the first surface; and a planar lid configured to removably enclose the first container surface of the container; enclosing the container with a flexible container bag; enclosing the lid with a flexible lid bag; and assembling the enclosed lid and the enclosed container. 
     In some embodiments, the TEE probe container comprises at least four depressions positioned on the container surface, which may or may not be discrete from one another. The first depression is configured for receiving the TEE probe, the second depression is configured for receiving a sponge, the third depression is configured for receiving a mouthpiece, and fourth depression is configured for receiving a flexible probe cover/sleeve that is configured to cover at least a portion of the TEE probe, for example, the TEE probe shaft. In some embodiments, the container includes a guard extending along the perimeter of the first container surface that aids in keeping fluids, such as biofluid, deposited on the first container surface within the boundaries of the container surface. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the TEE probe container comprises at least three depressions positioned on the container surface, which may or may not be discrete from one another. The first depression is configured for receiving the TEE probe, the second depression is configured for receiving a sponge, and the third depression is configured for receiving a mouthpiece. In some embodiments, the container includes a guard extending along the perimeter of the first container surface that aids in keeping fluids, such as biofluid, deposited on the first container surface within the boundaries of the container surface. The TEE probe container apparatus may include removable, flexible bags to encase the lid, and removable, flexible bags to encase the container surface. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the above embodiments, the method of using the TEE probe container further comprises: removing the lid and the container; applying a flexible probe cover over at least a portion of the TEE Probe; utilizing the TEE Probe in a procedure; replacing the TEE Probe in a TEE Probe depression of the one or more depressions of the container after the procedure; and reassembling the lid to the container. 
     In some embodiments, or in combination with any of the above embodiments, the method of using the TEE probe container further comprises: utilizing a sponge and a mouthpiece in the procedure; replacing the sponge and the mouthpiece after the procedure in a sponge depression and in a mouthpiece depression of the one or more depressions positioned on the first surface; and discarding the flexible probe cover, replacing the flexible probe cover in a flexible probe cover depression, or retaining the flexible probe cover on at least a portion of the TEE Probe. 
     Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar, or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting. 
     The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present invention or may be combined with yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Having thus described embodiments of the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of a TEE Probe container  100 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a perspective exploded view of a TEE Probe container  100 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 3 a    illustrates a top view of the TEE Probe container  100  without a lid, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 3 b    illustrates a side view of the TEE Probe container  100  of  FIG. 3   a;    
         FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of a TEE Probe container  200 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective exploded view of a TEE Probe container  200 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 6 a    illustrates a top view of the TEE Probe container  200  without a lid, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; 
         FIG. 6 b    illustrates a side view of the TEE Probe container  200  of  FIG. 3 a   ; and 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a high level process flow  300  for a method of assembly and use of the TEE probe container  100  and/or  200 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. 
     
    
    
     Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. The description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how the various forms of the invention may be embodied in practice. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to elements throughout. Where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “a” and/or “an” shall mean “one or more,” even though the phrase “one or more” is also used herein. 
     It will be appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of a Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) Probe container  100  or a container assembly  100 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The TEE Probe Container  100  typically comprises an assembly configured to receive and transport a TEE Probe  140  and/or one or more associated components (a sponge  150  and/or a mouthpiece  160  and/or a flexible probe cover  170  or flexible probe sleeve  170  configured to cover at least a portion of the TEE Probe  140 ). In some instances, the flexible probe sleeve  170  is configured to cover a TEE Probe shaft of the TEE Probe  140 . In some instances, the TEE Probe shaft is a portion/component of the TEE probe  140  that is configured to be inserted into a patient (for example, probe portion  142  that is inserted into the patient&#39;s esophagus through the patient&#39;s mouth illustrated in  FIGS. 2 and 3   a , or probe portion  242  illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6   a ). That said, in other instances, the TEE probe shaft may refer to a portion/component of the TEE probe  140  that is not configured to be inserted into a patient (for example, a probe handle ( 144 ,  244 ), a connector cable ( 146 ,  246 ) and/or an electric connection device ( 148 ,  248 ) illustrated in  FIGS. 2, 5 ) respectively). As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the TEE Probe Container  100  typically comprises a container  110  and a lid  120 . In some instances, a handle  130  is also provided. In some instances, the handle  130  is integral with the container  110  or lid  120 , while in other instances, the handle  130  is a separate component that may be secured to the container  110  and/or lid  120 . In some embodiments, for example, in the embodiments of the container  100  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 , or in the alternative embodiments of the container  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 4-6   b , the TEE Probe Container assembly ( 100 ,  200 ) may further comprise a container disposable bag or flexible container bag (not illustrated) that is configured to fit over the container  110  before assembly of the lid  120 , and a lid disposable bag or flexible lid bag (not illustrated) that is configured to encase the lid  120  before assembly. The container disposable bag is configured to conform to the contours of the container  110 . Typically, the container disposable bag and the lid disposable bag each comprise an opening configured to receive the container  110  and the lid  120 , respectively. Although termed as a TEE Probe container  100 , it is understood that in some embodiments, the TEE probe container  100  and the container  110  in particular are configured to receive and transport surgical/medical probes, endoscopes, and/or other medical instruments/devices that may be susceptible/prone to contamination with bioburden, pathogen, foreign materials, or other biological/chemical contamination during use and/or medical instruments/devices that may require disinfection/sterilization after use. 
     The components of the TEE Probe Container  100  will now be described in detail with respect to  FIG. 2  which illustrates a perspective exploded view of a TEE Probe container  100 . The container  110  typically comprises a first container surface  112   a  and an opposing second container surface  112   b . The container  110  further comprises lateral sides  112   c  terminating the first container surface  112   a  and the second container surface  112   b . In some embodiments, the first container surface  112   a , the second container surface  112   b , and/or the lateral sides  112   c  are three-dimensional contoured surfaces, while in other embodiments they are flat surfaces, while in yet other embodiments they may be tiered surfaces. Furthermore, the first container surface  112   a , the second container surface  112   b , and/or the lateral sides  112   c  may be shaped like a polygon, an ellipse, or any other suitable curvilinear shape with sharp and/or curved corners. Typically, the lateral sides  112   c  are oriented at an angle or oriented transversely with respect to the first container surface  112   a , and/or the second container surface  112   b.    
     In some instances, the container  110  further comprises a guard  118  positioned at and extending along (or proximate to) the perimeter of the first container surface  112   a . The guard  118  is typically configured such that inner lateral sides of the guard  118  surround or substantially surround a first volume that is bounded on one side by the first container surface  112   a . In some embodiments, the guard  118  is oriented parallel to and/or positioned coincident with ends of the lateral sides  112   c . In other embodiments the guard  118  is oriented transversely with respect to the lateral sides  112   c . Moreover, the guard  118  may be coincident and/or contiguous with the ends of the lateral sides  112   c  or the guard may be offset from the ends of the lateral sides  112   c . The guard  118  may comprise a suitable cross-section that may either be constant or variable throughout the extent of the guard  118 . 
     Moreover, the guard  118  typically extends along at least a portion of the perimeter of the first container surface  112   a , either in a continuous or discontinuous manner. For example, in some embodiments, the guard  118  (for example, the guard  118  illustrated in  FIG. 2 ) extends along a portion of the perimeter of the first container surface  112   a , in a discontinuous manner with a first guard portion  118   a  extending substantially along three of the lateral sides  112   c  and other discrete second guard portions  118   b  provided proximate the handle  130 . Alternatively, in some embodiments, the guard  218  (for example, the guard  218  of TEE Probe Container  200 , illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6   a ) extends along the entirety of the perimeter of the first container surface  212   a , in a continuous manner such that such that inner lateral sides of the guard  218  surround a first volume that is bounded on one side by the first container surface  212   a  (illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6   a ). 
     Typically, the container  110  further comprises one or more container depressions or cavities  114  on the first container surface  112   a , positioned adjacent to the first volume, for receiving the TEE Probe  140  and/or the other associated devices/components ( 150 ,  160 ,  170 ). The one or more container depressions  114  are suitably shaped and dimensioned to at least partially enclose the TEE Probe  140  and/or the other components ( 150 ,  160 ,  170 ). In some embodiments, the one or more container depressions  114  extend away from the first container surface  112   a  and in a direction towards the second container surface  112   b . As such, the one or more container depressions  114  each define a constant or variable depression depth D, that may each be greater than, equal to or lesser than a thickness of the lateral sides  112   c.    
     Typically, each container depression of the one or more container depressions  114  is sized, dimensioned and configured to receive at least one of the TEE Probe  140  or the other associated components ( 150 ,  160 ,  170 ). In this regard, the container depression  114  typically comprises a TEE probe depression  114   a  that is configured to receive the TEE probe  140 . In addition, in some embodiments, the container depression  114  includes a sponge depression  114   b  configured for receiving the sponge  150 , a mouthpiece depressions  114   c  configured for receiving the mouthpiece  160 , a probe cover depression  114   d  configured for receiving a flexible bag that is configured to at least partially cover/enclose the TEE probe  140  (for example, cover at least a portion of the TEE probe shaft), and/or other depressions or cavities.  FIGS. 2 and 3  illustrate one embodiment of the container  110  comprising at least four container depressions or cavities ( 114   a ,  114   b ,  114   c ,  114   d ) that are configured for receiving the TEE probe  140 , the sponge  150 , the mouthpiece  160 , and a flexible probe cover or sleeve  170  to cover the TEE probe shaft, respectively. In some embodiments, the one or more container depressions  114  may be discrete or separated from one another, while in other embodiments at least some of the one or more container depressions  114  may be contiguous. In some embodiments, for example, those illustrated with respect to  FIGS. 5-6   a , the container depressions  214  include at least three container depressions or cavities ( 214   a ,  214   b ,  214   c ) that are configured for receiving the TEE probe  240 , the sponge  250 , and the mouthpiece  260 , respectively. 
     As discussed, in some embodiments, the one or more container depressions  114  further comprise the probe cover depression  114   d  or sleeve depression  114   d  configured for receiving the flexible probe cover or sleeve  170 , the flexible probe cover  170  being configured for covering at least a portion of the TEE probe (for example the flexible cover  170  may be configured for covering the TEE probe shaft). In some instances, the flexible probe cover or sleeve  170  is a disposable cover/jacket that is configured to sheath/receive/enclose at least a portion of the TEE probe  140 . In this regard, in some instances the flexible probe cover or sleeve  170  or the TEE probe cover/sleeve  170  is designed to conform to the corresponding contours of the TEE probe  140  and designed to take the shape of the portion that is envelops. For example, the flexible probe cover or sleeve  170  may be a flexible hollow elongate case or a tube like structure configured for receiving a probe portion  142  of the TEE probe  140  that is typically inserted into the patient&#39;s esophagus. As such, an unused TEE probe sleeve may be stored/placed in the probe cover depression  114   d , which may then be retrieved and used to additionally cover/sheath and protect the TEE probe  140  before placing a used TEE probe  140  in the container  110  (for example, to cover the probe portion  142  to prevent the probe from contaminating its surroundings and vice versa). As another example, the TEE probe sleeve  170  may be stored/placed in the sleeve depression  114   d  when transporting a decontaminated TEE probe  140  for pre-patient-use (for example, to prevent contamination), and/or a contaminated TEE probe  140  for post-patient-use. In some instances, the probe cover depression  114   d  may be dimensioned and sized to receive a rolled, folded or otherwise collapsed/gathered TEE probe sleeve  170  or the flexible probe cover or sleeve  170 , while in other instances the probe cover depression  114   d  may be dimensioned to receive the TEE probe sleeve  170  or flexible probe cover or sleeve  170  in its open state (e.g., in the cases in which the sleeve is hard, is flexible but generally retains its shape, or the like). 
     In some embodiments, the one or more container depressions  114  may comprise an auxiliary depression (not illustrated) that is configured to receive another object that could be associated with the TEE probe, such as an ultrasound gel (not illustrated) and/or a bite-holder (not illustrated), or the depression may be provided to facilitate or may be a result of the manufacturing process used to fabricate the container  110 . It should be understood that the TEE probe depression  114   a , the sponge depression  114   b , the mouthpiece depression  114   c , the probe cover depression  114   d  and/or the auxiliary depression, also referred to as the first, second, third, fourth and/or fifth depressions respectively, may be positioned in any suitable location in the container  110  and in any suitable arrangement. As such, in some instances, the one or more depressions  114  may comprise a plurality of depressions ( 114   a ,  114   b ,  114   c  and/or  114   d ), as illustrated by  FIG. 2 . Although illustrated as being adjacent one another along the first container surface  112   a , it is also understood that a plurality of depressions ( 114   a ,  114   b ,  114   c  and/or  114   d ) may be stacked in a plane transverse to the first surface  112   a , with one depression leading to or atop another partially or entirely. 
     In some embodiments, each of the container depressions  114  may comprise a plurality of portions that are each sized and dimensioned to accommodate and/or position in a predetermined manner, at least a portion of a corresponding device. For instance, the TEE Probe  140  may be comprised of separate portions/components, including a probe  142 , a probe handle  144 , a connector cable  146  and an electric connection device  148  or connection device  148 . Here, the TEE Probe depression  114   a  may comprise four distinct/contiguous portions including a probe depression portion  12 , a probe handle depression portion  14 , a connector cable depression portion  16  and a connection device depression portion  18  configured for receiving/accommodating the corresponding portions of the TEE probe  140 . In some instances, a pair of the plurality of portions may be at least partially separated by walls, protrusions and the like. For instance,  FIG. 2  illustrates a pair of walls substantially separating the connector cable depression portion  16  and the connection device depression portion  18 . The walls may be configured such that the at least a portion of the TEE probe  140  may be accommodated and held in a predetermined manner in a recess between the walls, for example, to prevent sliding of the TEE probe  140  when the TEE probe  140  is placed in the container depression  114   a . The walls may also be configured to prevent fluid flow from one portion to another. For instance, the walls may prevent contaminants and other fluids on portions of the TEE probe  140  from flowing into the connection device depression portion  18 , to prevent contamination of the connection device  148  and/or prevent damage to electric components of the connection device  148  from fluid contact, when the TEE probe  140  is placed in the container depression  114   a . For instance,  FIG. 3  illustrates the TEE probe  140  being inserted or positioned in the designated depression  114   a  with the electric connection device  148  being positioned in the connection device depression portion  18 . In this instance, the electric connection device  148  and/or the connection device depression portion  18  are substantially separated from the connector cable depression portion  16  by the walls in the depression  114   a.    
     Furthermore, the container  110  may comprise one or more container fastening members, suitably located on the container surfaces/sides. In some embodiments, the container  110  comprises one or more distal container fastening members  116   a  positioned on the first surface  112   a  towards the lateral sides  112   c , and/or one or more proximal container fastening members  116   b  positioned towards a central location of the first surface  112   a . In this regard, in some embodiments, the container  110  comprises four corner container fastening members  116   a  (distal) on the first surface  112   a  proximate each of the four corners and a container fastening member  116   b  (proximal) positioned slightly offset from a central location of the first surface  112   a , as illustrated by  FIGS. 2 and 3 . In this regard, the arrangement of the proximal and distal container fastening members and the offset is configured such that the container  110  is non-symmetrical about the first surface  112   a . In other embodiments, for example the embodiments illustrated with respect to  FIGS. 4-6   a , the container  210  comprises four corner container fastening members  216   a  (distal) on the first surface  212   a  proximate each of the four corners and two staggered container fastening members  216   b  (proximal) positioned in a staggered manner around a central location of the first surface  212   a . In some instances, these non-symmetrical or staggered arrangements of the container fastening members ( 116   a - b ,  216   a - b ), described above, are configured such that the lid ( 120 ,  220 ) is irreversible, in that the lid securely couples to the container ( 110 ,  210 ) in only one position, as will be described in detail below. 
     In other embodiments, one or more container fastening members may be positioned symmetrically on the first container surface  112   a , for example by positioning the one or more proximal container fastening members  116   b  equidistantly from opposing lateral sides instead of a staggered arrangement. In some embodiments, the one or more container fastening members, for example the four corner container fastening members  116   a  and/or the offset container fastening member  116   b  may be protrusions that extend away from the first surface  112   a , as illustrated by  FIG. 2 . Similarly, as depicted in  FIG. 5 , the four corner container fastening members  216   a  and/or the two staggered container fastening members  216   b  may be protrusions that extend away from the first surface  212   a . Although in other embodiments, the container fastening members may be depressions or other suitable shapes. In addition, one or more of the container fastening members may comprise additional coupling elements for securely coupling the lid  120 . For example, as illustrated by  FIG. 2 , each of the distal container fastening members  116   a  may comprise a groove coupling element  117   a , that is configured to receive a corresponding edge portion  126   d  of the lid  120  or a distal lid fastening member  126   a  comprising a tab projection protruding from an edge of the lid  120 , when the container fastening members are coupled with the lid fastening members, i.e., when the lid  120  is affixed to the container  110 . That said, in alternative embodiments, the lid  120  may comprise lid grooves (for example, at lateral edges/faces between lid surfaces  122   a  and  122   b ) that are configured to mate with tab projections provided on the container  110  (for example, along inner lateral sides of the guard  118 , along inner lateral walls of the cavities  114 , or the like). 
     Moreover, as illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the container fastening members may further comprise a lateral container fastening member  116   c  provided on a wall of one of the cavities  114 . For example, as illustrated, the lateral container fastening member  116   c  may comprise a recess configured for receiving a corresponding projection coupling element  126   c  (e.g., lid tab or tab projection) of the lid  120 , when the lid  120  is affixed to the container  110 . In addition, in some embodiments, the container fastening members may further comprise one or more auxiliary container fastening members  116   e  in the form of protrusions or projections extending from the surface  112   a . This auxiliary container fastening members  116   e  are configured to be received by corresponding apertures  126   e  of the lid  120 , when the lid  120  is coupled to the container  110 . That said, in alternative embodiments not illustrated herein, the container  110  may comprise the apertures or depressions that are configured to receive or mate with the auxiliary lid fastening members in the form of protrusions/projections provided on the lid  120 , for example on a second lid surface  122   b  of the lid  120 . 
     That said, it is understood that the container fastening members  116  may comprise any combination of depressions, protrusions, grooves, or any suitable contour configured for engaging the corresponding lid fastening members  126 . 
     The TEE Probe container assembly  110  may further comprise the handle  130  that is configured to be attached to a lateral side  112   c  of the container  110 . 
     Typically, the TEE Probe container assembly  100  further comprises a lid  120 . Typically, the lid  120  is unattached or separate from the container  110 , although it is contemplated that in alternate embodiments the lid  120  may be at least partially attached to the container  110 , or may be attached using a hinge arrangement. In some embodiments the lid  120  is a planar member with a first lid surface  122   a  and an opposing second lid surface  122   b  defining a perimeter  128 . In some embodiments, the perimeter  128  of the lid  120  comprises dimensions and contours that are substantially similar to the first container surface  112   a  substantially within the guard  118  and/or lateral sides  112   c  of the container  110 . The lid  120  is shaped and dimensioned such that the second lid surface  122   b  is configured to contact the first container surface  112   a , on assembly (for example, with portions of the disposable bags located between). 
     Furthermore, the lid  120  may comprise one or more lid fastening members including distal lid fastening members  126   a  and/or one or more proximal lid fastening members  126   b , whose contour and position typically complements the corresponding one or more distal container fastening members  116   a  and/or the one or more proximal container fastening members  116   b , respectively. For instance, as illustrated by  FIG. 2 , the lid fastening members of the lid  120  comprise distal lid fastening members  126   a , a proximal lid fastening member  126   b , a projection coupling element  126   c , edge portions  126   d , and an aperture  126   e  located on the lid  120  such that the lid fastening members are proximate to/engage with corresponding container fastening members ( 116   a ,  116   b ,  116   c ,  117   a  and  116   e , respectively) when the container  110  and the lid  120  are assembled. In this regard, the lid fastening members and corresponding container fastening members may form fastening member pairs on assembly. As discussed, the distal lid fastening members  126   a  and the edge portions  126   d  may be received within the groove coupling elements  117   a  of the corresponding container fastening members  116   a . The proximal lid fastening member  126   b  and the apertures  126   e  may be through holes (or recesses in alternative embodiments), which are sized and dimensioned to receive through them, the protrusions of the proximal container fastening member  116   b  and the auxiliary container fastening members  116   e , respectively, on assembly. Moreover, the projection coupling element  126   c  of the lid  120  may be received within the recess of the lateral container fastening member  116   c . That said, it is understood that the lid fastening members  126  may comprise any combinations of depressions, protrusions or any suitable contour configured for engaging the corresponding container fastening members  116 . In some instances, the lid  120  further comprises one or more apertures or recesses  125  for facilitating removal of the lid  120  from the container  110  during disassembly. 
     In some embodiments, the centrally offset proximal container fastening member  116   b  of the container  110 , and the corresponding proximal lid fastening member  126   b  of the lid  120  are positioned in a non-symmetrical manner such that the lid  120  is irreversible. In this regard, the irreversible lid  120  may be assembled with the container  110  only when the second lid surface  122   b  faces the first container surface  112   a , because rotating or flipping the lid  120  over would prevent the proximal lid fastening member  126   b  from receiving the protrusion of the proximal container fastening member  116   b.    
     However, in other embodiments, for example in the instances where the fastening members are positioned symmetrically, the lid  120  is reversible (not illustrated). In some embodiments, the container fastening members ( 116   a ,  116   b ,  116   c ,  116   e ) and the corresponding lid fastening members (( 126   a ,  126   d ),  126   b ,  126   d ,  126   e ) might be arranged in a manner conducive to a securing a reversible lid  120 . In some embodiments, the lid  120  may be rotated, flipped, or both, and still retain its ability to fasten to the container  110  surface. The invention encompasses any number of possible complimentary pair designs for the fasteners ( 116   a ,  116   b ,  116   c ,  116   e ) and accompanying fastener attachments on the lid. For assembly, the lid  120  is releasably attached to the container  110  by positioning the second lid surface  122   b  proximate the first container surface  112   a  such that the container fastening members ( 116   a ,  116   b ,  116   c ,  116   e ) engage the corresponding lid fastening members (( 126   a ,  126   d ),  126   b ,  126   d ,  126   e ), respectively. In some embodiments, the lid  110  may be flexible enough to allow the aforementioned engagement of the fastening members. 
     During use, storage and transport of the TEE Probe  140  and the other components like the sponge  150 , mouthpiece  160 , and the flexible probe cover/sleeve  170  are first placed into the container  110 . The TEE Probe  140 , the sponge  150 , the mouthpiece  160 , and the flexible probe cover/sleeve  170  are placed in the respective depressions ( 114   a ,  114   b ,  114   c ,  114   d ) of the container  110 . Here, in some instances, the flexible probe cover/sleeve  170  may be slid/affixed around the TEE probe  140 , for example, the TEE probe shaft, prior to placing the TEE probe  140  in the container. The lid  120  is then assembled/affixed to the container, such that the TEE Probe  140  and the associated components ( 150 ,  160 ,  170 ) are completely enclosed by the first container surface  112   a  and the second lid surface  122   b . The container fastening members ( 116   a ,  116   b ,  116   c ,  116   e ) engage the corresponding lid fastening members (( 126   a ,  126   d ),  126   b ,  126   d ,  126   e ), for example with a secure fit (for example, a snap fit, an interference fit, a clearance fit, and/or the like). The guard  118  is typically configured such that, once assembled, the guard  118  prevents flow of fluids or contaminations from the TEE probe and other components outside the assembly  100 . As such, contaminated TEE probe and components may be securely transported in this manner. The TEE Probe container assembly  100  may then be disassembled and the contaminated TEE probes and devices may be retrieved for disinfection/sterilization. The disposable cover/sleeve may then be removed and discarded. Therefore, the container  110  and the lid  120  may be reused during the transport of contaminated component and disinfected component cycles. 
     During a procedure involving the use of the TEE Probe, the container itself can further be viewed by one of ordinary skill in the art as a procedural kit in addition to simply a container. In some instances, a procedure involving the use of the TEE Probe container might require placement of a biteblock or mouthpiece  160  that is used during the procedure to prevent an unconscious or semi-conscious patient from biting the TEE Probe, specifically the probe portion  142  that is inserted into the patient&#39;s esophagus through the patient&#39;s mouth. In some instances, the mouthpiece  160  may be removed and placed in the TEE Probe container, and depression cavity  114   c  allows for the safe and sanitary placement of this device, as well as subsequent transport post-procedure. Additionally, the sanitary sponge  150  may be used in some instances to ensure that the procedural work space is clear of any fluids that may encumber the correct placement of the probe  140  and the mouthpiece  160 , as well as to facilitate the correct placement of the mouthpiece, optimize the comfort of the patient and ensure that there are no unsanitary fluids on or near the procedural work space. Sponge depression  114   b  is present in some embodiments to provide a place for the used sponge within the container that is discrete from the other probe components. Since the sponge depression is discrete from the probe depression, the probe may be placed back in the container  110  during the procedure with little risk of contaminating other components contained within the TEE Probe container apparatus. Sanitary use and transportation of the device before, during, and after the procedure may be crucially dependent on the use of disposable bags in some embodiments. The TEE probe sleeve  170  or the flexible probe cover/sleeve  170  is typically designed to conform to the TEE Probe  140  such that any fluid or biofluid retained on the probe  140  might be kept from leaving the confines of the container apparatus. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of a Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) Probe container  200 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The structure and functions of the container  200  and its components are substantially similar to that of the container  100  described with respect to  FIGS. 1-3  previously. For example, the TEE Probe Container  200  typically comprises an assembly configured to receive and transport a TEE Probe  240  and/or one or more associated components (a sponge  250  and/or a mouthpiece  260 ). As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the TEE Probe Container  100  typically comprises a container  210  and a lid  220 . In some instances, a handle  230  is also provided. In some embodiments, the TEE Probe Container assembly  200  may further comprise a container disposable bag or flexible container bag (not illustrated) that is configured to fit over the container  210  before assembly of the lid  220 , and a lid disposable bag or flexible lid bag (not illustrated) that is configured to encase the lid  220  before assembly. The container disposable bag is configured to conform to the contours of the container  210 . Typically, the container disposable bag and the lid disposable bag each comprise an opening configured to receive the container  210  and the lid  220 , respectively. Although termed as a TEE Probe container  100 , it is understood that in some embodiments, the TEE probe container  100  and the container  210  in particular are configured to receive and transport surgical/medical probes, endoscopes, and/or other medical instruments/devices that may be susceptible/prone to contamination with bioburden, pathogen, foreign materials, or other biological/chemical contamination during use and/or medical instruments/devices that may require disinfection/sterilization after use. 
     As alluded to previously, in some instances, the components of the TEE Probe Container  200  are substantially similar to those described with respect to TEE Probe container  100 . As discussed, the container  210  of the TEE Probe Container  200  typically comprises a first container surface  212   a , a second container surface  212   b , and/or lateral sides  212   c . As discussed previously, in some instances, the container  210  further comprises a guard  218  positioned at and extending along (or proximate to) the perimeter of the first container surface  212   a . However, the container  210  may further comprise one or more container depressions or cavities  214  similar to those described previously on the first container surface  212   a , for receiving the TEE Probe  240  and/or the other associated devices/components ( 250 ,  260 ). Typically, as discussed previously, each container depression of the one or more container depressions  214  is sized, dimensioned and configured to receive at least one of the TEE Probe  240  or the other associated components ( 250 ,  260 ). In this regard, the container depression  214  typically comprises a TEE probe depression  214   a  that is configured to receive the TEE probe  240 . In addition, in some embodiments, the container depression  214  includes a sponge depression  214   b  configured for receiving the sponge  250 , a mouthpiece depressions  214   c  configured for receiving the mouthpiece  260  and/or other depressions or cavities.  FIGS. 5 and 6  illustrate one embodiment of the container  210  comprising at least three container depressions or cavities ( 214   a ,  214   b ,  214   c ) that are configured for receiving the TEE probe  240 , the sponge  250 , and the mouthpiece  260 , respectively. In some embodiments, the one or more container depressions  214  may be discrete or separated from one another, while in other embodiments at least some of the one or more container depressions  214  may be contiguous. 
     As discussed, the TEE Probe  240  may be comprised of separate portions/components, including a probe  242 , a probe handle  244 , a connector cable  246  and an electric connection device  248  or connection device  248 . Here, the TEE Probe depression  214   a  may comprise four distinct/contiguous portions including a probe depression portion  22 , a probe handle depression portion  24 , a connector cable depression portion  26  and a connection device depression portion  28  configured for receiving/accommodating the corresponding portions of the TEE probe  240 . In some instances, a pair of the plurality of portions may be at least partially separated by walls, protrusions and the like. For instance,  FIGS. 4-6   a  illustrate a pair of walls substantially separating the connector cable depression portion  26  and the connection device depression portion  28 . The walls may be configured such that the at least a portion of the TEE probe  240  may be accommodated and held in a predetermined manner in a recess between the walls, for example, to prevent sliding of the TEE probe  240  when the TEE probe  240  is placed in the container depression  214   a . The walls may also be configured to prevent fluid flow from one portion to another. For instance, the walls may prevent contaminants and other fluids on portions of the TEE probe  240  from flowing into the connection device depression portion  28 , to prevent contamination of the connection device  248  and/or prevent damage to electric components of the connection device  248  from fluid contact, when the TEE probe  240  is placed in the container depression  214   a.    
     Moreover, the TEE Probe container assembly  200  may further comprise a lid  220 , the lid  220  being a planar member with a first lid surface  222   a  and an opposing second lid surface  222   b  defining a perimeter  228 . The perimeter  228  of the lid  220  comprises dimensions and contours that are substantially similar to the first container surface  212   a  within the guard  218  and/or lateral sides  212   c  of the container  210 . The lid  220  is shaped and dimensioned such that the second lid surface  222   b  is configured to contact the first container surface  212   a , on assembly (for example, with portions of the disposable bags located between). Moreover, as illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6   a , the lid  220  may comprise four corner lid fastening members  226   a  (distal) and two staggered lid fastening members  226   b  (proximal) located on the lid  220  such that the one or more lid fastening members are proximate to/engage with corresponding container fastening members when the container  210  and the lid  220  are assembled. In this regard, the lid fastening members and corresponding container fastening members may form fastening member pairs on assembly. The corner lid fastening members  226   a  and the staggered lid fastening members  226   b  may be through holes/apertures, which are sized and dimensioned to receive through them, the protrusions of the corner container fastening members  216   a  and the staggered container fastening members  216   b  respectively, on assembly. In some instances, the lid  220  further comprises an aperture/recess or finger hole  225  for facilitating removal of the lid  220  from the container  210  during disassembly. In some embodiments, the staggered container fastening members  216   b  and the staggered lid fastening members  226   b  pairs are positioned in a staggered manner such that the lid  220  is irreversible. In this regard, the irreversible lid  220  may be assembled with the container  210  only when the second lid surface  222   b  faces the first container surface  212   a , because rotating or flipping the lid  220  over would prevent the staggered container fastening member  216   b  and the lid fastening member  226   b  pairs from engaging. 
     During use, storage and transport of the TEE Probe  240  and the other components like the sponge  250  and mouthpiece  260 , the container disposable bag is first placed over the container  210  and the lid disposable bag is placed over the lid  220 . The TEE Probe  240 , the sponge  250 , and the mouthpiece  260  are placed in the respective depressions ( 214   a ,  214   b ,  214   c ) of the container  210  with the container disposable bag separating the components and the container surfaces. Here, in some instances, the TEE probe sleeve may be slid/affixed around the TEE probe  240  prior to placing the probe  240  in the container. The lid  220  enclosed by the lid disposable bag is then assembled/affixed to the container, such that the TEE Probe  240  and the associated components ( 250 ,  260 ) are completely enclosed by the bags, the first container surface  212   a , and the second lid surface  222   b . The container fastening members ( 216   a ,  216   b ) engage the lid fastening members ( 226   a ,  226   b ), for example with a snap fit that also secures the container disposable bag and the lid disposable bag. As such, the container disposable bag is positioned between the first container surface  212   a  and the TEE Probe, and the lid disposable bag is positioned between the second lid surface  222   b ) and the TEE Probe. The guard  218  is typically configured such that, once assembled, the guard  218  prevents flow of fluids or contaminations from the TEE probe and other components outside the assembly  200 . As such, contaminated TEE probe and components may be securely transported in this manner. The TEE Probe container assembly  200  may then be disassembled and the contaminated TEE probes and devices may be retrieved for disinfection/sterilization. The disposable bags may then be removed and discarded. The container  210  and the lid  220  may be enclosed in new disposable bags and the sterilized/disinfected components may be placed in the container  210  as described above. Therefore, the container  210  and the lid  220  may be reused during the transport of contaminated component and disinfected component cycles. 
     During a procedure involving the use of the TEE Probe, the container itself can further be viewed by one of ordinary skill in the art as a procedural kit in addition to simply a container. In some instances, a procedure involving the use of the TEE Probe container might require placement of a biteblock or mouthpiece  260  that is used during the procedure to prevent an unconscious or semi-conscious patient from biting the TEE Probe, specifically the probe portion  242  that is inserted into the patients esophagus through the patients mouth. In some instances, the mouthpiece  260  may be removed and placed in the TEE Probe container, and depression cavity  214   c  allows for the safe and sanitary placement of this device, as well as subsequent transport post-procedure. Additionally, the sanitary sponge  250  may be used in some instances to ensure that the procedural work space is clear of any fluids that may encumber the correct placement of the probe  240  and the mouthpiece  260 , as well as to facilitate the correct placement of the mouthpiece, optimize the comfort of the patient and ensure that there are no unsanitary fluids on or near the procedural work space. Sponge depression  214   b  is present in some embodiments to provide a place for the used sponge within the container that is discrete from the other probe components. Since the sponge depression is discrete from the probe depression, the probe may be placed back in the container  210  during the procedure with little risk of contaminating other components contained within the TEE Probe container apparatus. Sanitary use and transportation of the device before, during, and after the procedure may be crucially dependent on the use of disposable bags in some embodiments. The disposable bags (and/or the TEE probe sleeve) are typically designed to conform to the TEE Probe container  210  and the lid  220  such that any fluid or biofluid retained on the probe or other components, such as the sponge  250  or mouthpiece  260  might be kept from substantially mixing together or leaving the confines of the container apparatus. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a high level process flow  300  for a method of assembly and use of the TEE probe container  100  and/or  200  described previously, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As indicated by Block  310 , a tee probe container ( 100 ,  200 ) comprising a container ( 110 ,  210 ) configured for receiving a tee probe ( 140 ,  240 ) and a lid configured ( 120 ,  220 ) to removably affixed to the container are provided, as described previously. During use, storage and/or transport of the TEE Probe ( 140 ,  240 ) and the other components like the sponge ( 150 ,  250 ), mouthpiece ( 160 ,  260 ), and/or the flexible probe cover/sleeve  170  are first placed into the container ( 110 ,  210 ), as indicated by Block  320 . The TEE Probe  140 , the sponge  150 , the mouthpiece  160 , and the flexible probe cover/sleeve  170  are placed in the respective cavities/depressions ( 114   a ,  114   b ,  114   c ,  114   d ) of the container  110 . Here, in some instances, the flexible probe cover/sleeve  170  may be slid/affixed around the TEE probe  140 , for example, the TEE probe shaft, prior to placing the TEE probe  140  in the container, or alternatively the flexible probe cover  170  is placed in the cavity  114   d  separate from the TEE probe  140 . Subsequently, the lid ( 120 ,  220 ) is then assembled/affixed to the container ( 110 ,  210 ), such that the TEE Probe ( 140 ,  240 ) and the associated components (( 150 ,  160 ,  170 ), ( 250 ,  260 )) are completely enclosed by the first container surface ( 112   a ,  212   a ) and the second lid surface ( 122   b ,  222   b ). The container fastening members (for example, members  116   a ,  116   b ,  116   c ,  116   e ) engage the corresponding lid fastening members (for example, members ( 126   a ,  126   d ),  126   b ,  126   d ,  126   e ), for example with a secure fit (for example, a snap fit, an interference fit, a clearance fit, and/or the like). Alternatively, in some instances, the container disposable bag is first placed over the container ( 110 ,  210 ) and the lid disposable bag is placed over the lid ( 120 ,  220 ), prior to placing the TEE Probe ( 140 ,  240 ) and the other components like the sponge ( 150 ,  250 ) and mouthpiece ( 160 ,  260 ) in their respective depressions. As such, contaminated TEE probe and components may be securely transported in this manner. 
     Next, as illustrated by Block  330 , during a procedure involving the use of the TEE Probe ( 140 ,  240 ), the container ( 100 ,  200 ) functions as a procedural kit. Typically, prior to the procedure, the lid ( 120 ,  220 ) is detached from the container ( 110 ,  210 ) and the components contained within, such as the mouthpiece, the sponge, the TEE probe and/or the flexible probe cover are retrieved from the container. The flexible probe cover may be retrieved separately from the TEE probe, in the instances where they are stored separately in the container, and the flexible probe cover may subsequently be placed over at least a portion of the TEE probe, for example, the TEE probe shaft. Alternatively, the TEE probe encased with the flexible probe cover or the TEE probe nor encases with the flexible robe cover is retrieved. 
     Specifically, as illustrated by Block  340 , the biteblock or mouthpiece ( 160 ,  260 ) that configured to prevent an unconscious or semi-conscious patient from biting the TEE Probe ( 140 ,  240 ) during the procedure may be retrieved and appropriately positioned in the mouth of the patient. Next, the probe portion ( 142 ,  242 ) of the TEE probe ( 140 ,  240 ) may be inserted into the patient&#39;s esophagus through the patient&#39;s mouth. Here, in some instances, the probe portion may be at least partially enclosed in the flexible prove cover prior to insertion into the patient&#39;s esophagus, while in other instances the TEE probe may be inserted without the flexible probe cover. Additionally, the sanitary sponge ( 150 ,  250 ) may be used in some instances to ensure that the procedural work space is clear of any fluids that may encumber the correct placement of the probe ( 140 ,  240 ) and the mouthpiece ( 160 ,  260 ), as well as to facilitate the correct placement of the mouthpiece, optimize the comfort of the patient and ensure that there are no unsanitary fluids on or near the procedural work space. The procedure utilizing the TEE probe is then carried out. 
     During or after completion of the procedure, as indicated by Block  350 , the used/contaminated mouthpiece ( 160 ,  260 ) may be removed and placed in the TEE Probe container ( 110 ,  210 ). Here, the cavity ( 114   c ,  214   c ) allows for the safe and sanitary placement of this device, as well as subsequent transport post-procedure. Similarly, the contaminated sponge ( 150 ,  250 ) may be placed in the corresponding cavity ( 114   b ,  214   b ). Since the mouthpiece and sponge cavities are discrete from the TEE probe cavity, the probe ( 140 ,  240 ) may be placed back in the container ( 110 ,  210 ) during and/or after the procedure with little risk of contaminating other components contained within the TEE Probe container apparatus. In some instances, the TEE Probe  140  encased in the flexible probe cover  170  is placed back into the container such that any fluid or biofluid retained on the probe  140  might be kept from leaving the confines of the container apparatus. Alternatively, the flexible probe cover  170  may then be removed and stored separately (for example, in the cavity  114   d ) or the flexible probe cover  170  may be discarded. The lid may then be assembled on the container for secure storage and/or transportation of the contaminated components. The guard ( 118 ,  218 ) is typically configured such that, once assembled, the guard ( 118 ,  218 ) prevents flow of fluids or contaminations from the TEE probe and other components outside the assembly ( 100 ,  200 ). In the embodiments where the lid and container disposable bags are employed, the lid ( 120 ,  220 ) enclosed by the lid disposable bag is assembled/affixed to the container ( 110 ,  210 ), such that the TEE Probe ( 140 ,  240 ) and the associated components (( 150 ,  250 ), ( 160 ,  260 ), and/or  170 ) are completely enclosed by the bags, the first container surface ( 112   a ,  212   a ), and the second lid surface ( 122   b ,  222   b ). As such, the container disposable bag is positioned between the first container surface ( 112   a ,  212   a ) and the TEE Probe ( 140 ,  240 ), and the lid disposable bag is positioned between the second lid surface ( 122   b ,  222   b )) and the TEE Probe. 
     Subsequently, as indicated by Block  360 , the TEE Probe container assembly ( 100 ,  200 ) may then be disassembled and the contaminated TEE probes ( 140 ,  240 ) and devices (( 150 ,  250 ), ( 160 ,  260 ),  170 ) may be retrieved for disinfection/sterilization. In some instances, the flexible prove cover  170  is removed (for example, from the probe or the container cavity) and discarded. Moreover, the lid and container bags may be disposed and/or replaced with new bags, in the embodiments employing the bags. Therefore, the container ( 110 ,  210 ) and the lid ( 120 ,  220 ) may be reused during the transport of contaminated component and disinfected component cycles, or the container ( 110 ,  210 ) and the lid ( 120 ,  220 ) may be disposable. 
     It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments of the invention without departing from their scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the invention, the embodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the Plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. 
     All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. 
     While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of, and not restrictive on, the broad invention, and that this invention need not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other changes, combinations, omissions, modifications and substitutions, in addition to those set forth in the above paragraphs, are possible. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various adaptations and modifications of the just described embodiments can be configured without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described herein.