Abstract: A container system for organizing, protecting, sterilizing, storing and delivery of surgical instruments, implants and related devices. An optional cover is removably mounted to a tray and is held thereto by a pair of pivotally mounted handles. Post and button fasteners are removably mounted to the tray and hold rigid and flexible bracketry for securing devices within the assembly.

Abstract: A novel apparatus and device is described for reconstituting a bone sample with a biological fluid, such as concentrated plasma or saline solutions, for example, prior to surgical implantation into a patient. In particular, the invention comprises, in certain aspects, a container in which a bone sample may be reconstituted with the desired fluid by applying a vacuum within the container, thereby driving the fluid into the bone for complete, or near complete, permeation of the fluid into the interstices of the bone sample prior to surgical implantation.

Abstract: An air freshener device includes an open-cell, polyurethane foam body having a scent material interspersed in the foam body that is capable of diffusing out of the foam, and a flexible cover surrounding and conforming to the foam body having at least one hole in the cover to facilitate the release of scent. The foam body can be flexible and compressible, and also resilient and returnable to its original configuration. The flexible cover can have a fabric shell that is soothing to the touch, and may also have a non-porous inner liner to contain the scent material and prevent it from migrating out of the foam body. In addition, the air freshener can have a freestanding, self-supported, three-dimensional shape, and can be fashioned into the shape of a common sports ball, such as a baseball.

Abstract: In a storage case for accommodating a capsule endoscope in which a power supply can be operated by a predetermined magnetic force, when the capsule endoscope is retained by both a retaining portion provided in a blister pack and a hole portion provided in an inner cover portion while accommodated in the storage case, the blister pack, the inner cover portion, a sterilizing sheet, and a shield of the storage case are configured to cover an operable range for power supply of the capsule endoscope, and the storage case prevents malfunction of the capsule endoscope accommodated therein even if a magnet is unintentionally approximated.

Abstract: When an inner cover portion is accommodated in a blister pack, a retention space area a for accommodating a capsule endoscope is formed between the bottom face of the inner cover portion and the inside bottom face of the blister pack. The capsule endoscope, retained by a retaining portion formed in the blister pack and by a hole portion formed in the inner cover portion, is set into a storage case. The entire capsule endoscope accommodated in the storage case is uniformly and satisfactorily sterilized by blocking the opening of the blister pack with a sterilizing sheet.

Abstract: A packaging container for acupuncture needles capable of storing a plurality of acupuncture needles is provided. The packaging container (storage containers) in which the acupuncture needles to be used are stored can be opened at one time, according to the number of acupuncture needles to be used. On one end portion side of a packaging container (blister package) including a container body and a sheet member detachably attached to a planar surface of the container body, a free portion in which the sheet member is not attached to an outer frame portion of the container body, is disposed. Further, perforated lines (cut portions and uncut portions) are disposed along center lines of boundary portions from one end portion of the packaging container to the other end portion thereof. Here, the length of the uncut portion on the free portion is made longer than the length of each uncut portion on a portion other than the free portion.

Abstract: A sterilization process that preserves the mechanical properties of dilatation balloons and balloon catheters manufactured from polymers susceptible to the degradation reactions induced by ionizing radiation. The advantages of the sterilization process contemplated by this invention results from a reduced oxygen environment during sterilization, thereby preventing the degeneration process initiated in polymers during irradiation. Additionally, a balloon or balloon dilatation catheter sterilized by the process of the invention is provided.

Abstract: This invention deals with package components for radiochemical sterilization of medical or pharmaceutical products consisting of a hermetically sealed foil pack containing (1) a solid device, as in absorbable sutures and meshes, in a perforated holder or a liquid formulation in a sealed, flexible dispenser, as in absorbable cyanoacrylate-based tissue adhesive; (2) a microparticulate, unstabilized polyformaldehyde as a source of radiolytically generated formaldehyde encased in a sealed pouch comprising a porous, non-woven or woven fabric; and (3) a nitrogenous compound capable of reacting with residual formaldehyde, such as melamine or urea, that is encased in a sealed pouch comprising a porous, non-woven or woven fabric.

Abstract: Package components for the radiochemical sterilization of medical devices contain paraformaldehyde as the precursor of the radiolytically generated, sterilizing dose of formaldehyde, premixed with a particulate solid dispersant of, preferably, polyethylene or silica gel, which facilitates the free passage of the formaldehyde to the package gaseous environment or additionally, absorbs trace amounts of moisture in the package, thus, facilitating the device manufacturing process and increasing shelf-stability.

Abstract: The invention provides a dual compartment pouch having first and second compartments that are separated from each other by an impervious inner sheet having a breathable membrane. The breathable membrane comprises a breathable material that is pervious to moisture and gases, and impervious to liquids as well as microorganisms. The breathable membrane allows a sterilizing gas to be introduced between the first and second compartments. The front and back sheets are sealed to the inner sheet to define the first and second compartments in which the inner sheet forms a common wall between the compartments. The breathable membrane is disposed towards a central portion of the inner sheet and is spaced apart from the seams joining the front and back sheets to the inner sheet. In one embodiment, a sterilized article is disposed in one compartment, and an absorbent packets are disposed in the other compartment.

Abstract: A disposable diaper is provided comprising a diaper body having an outer surface. The disposable diaper includes a waterproof layer secured to an outer surface layer of the diaper body to form a pocket between the layer and the outer surface. The disposable diaper further comprises means for sealing the pocket to seal in waste and odor. A method for sealing and disposing of the diaper also is provided, comprising the steps of rolling the diaper inwardly toward the pocket, inverting the pocket to receive the diaper body, and sealing the pocket to enclose the diaper body.

Abstract: A sterilized package includes an inner gas-permeable and germ-proof package which contains at least one sterile article and an outer gas-tight package which surrounds the inner package wherein the package includes, between the inner package and the outer package, a sterile and dry packaging volume.

Abstract: The invention describes a percutaneous gastrointestinal anchoring kit having an anchor, an introducer, a guide, an inflator, and a retainer. The anchor contains a ballooned region and a shaft portion. The retainer secures the anchor within the stomach when the ballooned region is inflated by seating against an exterior surface of the patient body and placing a tractive force on the ballooned region so as to pull the gastric lumen to an interior abdominal wall of the patient body. The introducer is used to insert the anchor initially within the stomach. The guide positions the ballooned region of the anchor within the stomach by enabling manipulation from an exterior surface of the patient body. The inflator is used to selectively inflate or deflate the ballooned region as needed.

Abstract: A package (599) with three layers allows sterilization of the package contents, provides a separate area for a scavenger and minimizes the oxygen transmission rate for the package and has, in one embodiment, a third layer (330) with a first section (336) of breathable polymeric material, a second section (334) of substantially non-breathable polymeric material and a third section (332) of breathable polymeric material which is positioned between a first layer (512) of substantially non-breathable polymeric material and a second layer (514) of substantially non-breathable polymeric material. The first layer (512) and the second layer (514) are fixed together to define a non-breathable pouch (516); and the third layer (330) is fixed to the first layer (512) and the second layer (514) and divides the non-breathable pouch (516) into a first compartment (592) and a second compartment (594).

Abstract: A medical instrument sterilization pouch for efficiently bagging hinged instruments. The medical instrument sterilization pouch generally includes a first layer comprised of a gas permeable material, a second layer comprised of a gas impermeable or permeable material and a sealing edge substantially extending along an outer perimeter of the first layer and the second layer to attach the first layer to the second layer. The sealing edge defines a sealed inner space between the first layer and the second layer for receiving a medical instrument, wherein the sealing edge includes an inner portion extending inwardly from an outer end of the sealing portion to define a barrier between a first lower portion and a second lower portion of the pouch within the inner space.

Abstract: Sterilization packaging materials of a microporous membrane and support layer which are bacteria impermeable, gas permeable, non-linting and compatible with all gas sterilization systems are provided. Desirable translucent areas may be incorporated into the sterilization packaging materials. Sterilization packages of these materials and methods for their use in gas sterilization of articles are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrogen peroxide indicator that includes a substrate on which is disposed an indicator composition that includes at least one of a select group of colorants. As a result of contact with hydrogen peroxide, the colorants change color, and even become colorless, thereby providing an indication of the presence of hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: This packaging for sterile products or products intended to be sterilized by a gas, for example a gas of the ETO type, comprises a tub (2) made of plastic and a cover sheet (14) made of selectively impervious material, fixed to the tub (2) so as to seal the latter imperviously. According to the invention, the packaging comprises a screen (20, 22; 24, 26; 26) against electron radiation (E), placed along the cover sheet (14) on the inside of the tub (2) and dimensioned in such a way as to extend above the products (10) to be sterilized and so as to delimit on the cover sheet (14) a peripheral zone (14a) for fixing this cover sheet (14) to the tub (2).

Abstract: The invention describes a percutaneous gastrointestinal anchoring kit having an anchor, an introducer, a guide, an inflator, and a retainer. The anchor contains a ballooned region and a shaft portion. The retainer secures the anchor within the stomach when the ballooned region is inflated by seating against an exterior surface of the patient body and placing a tractive force on the ballooned region so as to pull the gastric lumen to an interior abdominal wall of the patient body. The introducer is used to insert the anchor initially within the stomach. The guide positions the ballooned region of the anchor within the stomach by enabling manipulation from an exterior surface of the patient body. The inflator is used to selectively inflate or deflate the ballooned region as needed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to packaging in the form of a pouch, which may contain active substances, such as food products, pharmaceutical agents, nutraceuticals and cosmetic agents, or the like. More specifically, in some embodiments, the present invention provides a pouch, which includes at least one porous substrate encompassing a closed volume and at least one water-soluble film at least partially embedded in the at least one porous substrate. The pouch may contain an active substance within the closed volume, as well as an active substance in the water-soluble film. The present invention also relates to methods of making and using the pouches.

Abstract: A container system for organizing, protecting, sterilizing, storing and delivery of surgical instruments, implants and related devices. An optional cover is removably mounted to a tray and is held thereto by a pair of pivotally mounted handles. Post and button fasteners are removably mounted to the tray and hold rigid and flexible bracketry for securing devices within the assembly.

Abstract: A package for transporting objects which are sterile or which are to be sterilized. The package has a box for accommodating objects, and a covering sheet made of a leak tight material which is fastened to the box so as to seal the box in a leak tight manner. The package has a layer of a material forming a screen which is at least partial with respect to a decontamination gas and/or able to absorb a decontamination gas. The layer is sized to be placed in the box along the covering sheet such that the layer lies above the objects. A plate or grill is provided with projections and is shaped, depending on the position of the package, to allow unrestricted diffusion of the sterilization gas over the objects, and to restrict or prevent diffusion of the decontamination gas over these same objects.

Abstract: A packaging having a box, and a cover sheet made of a material that is not permeable to decontamination gas. The cover sheet has a window closed by a piece of selectively impervious material. A flexible piece of a material that is not permeable to a decontamination gas is fixed to the cover sheet by at least one of its edges and has a free part which is able to move between a diffusion position and a non-diffusion position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sterile container, in particular for the receipt and sterile storage of surgical instruments or material, comprising a receiving chamber and a gas exchange opening that can be sealed using a sterile filter. The aim of the invention is to prevent undesired liquid from reaching the sterile filter. To achieve this, the exterior of the lid is provided with at least one inflow edge, which faces away from the gas exchange opening, and falls away towards the exterior in relation to a lid plane.

Abstract: A multilayer web article, including a first layer of a porous material, e.g., Tyvek® film, and a second layer overlying and sealed to the first layer. The second layer is non-porous to passage of gas therethrough and includes a peelable film, e.g., of polyethylene, in contact with the first layer of porous material. The peelable film permits peeling removal of the second layer from the first layer to expose the first layer of porous material for passage of gas therethrough. In a specific construction, the web article constitutes one of opposedly facing panels of a lay-flat bag article, in which the facing panels are bonded to one another along superposed edges thereof. After pressurization integrity testing of the bag, the peelable film is peeled away to enable steam - and/or ETO-sterilization of the bag and its contents to be carried out.

Abstract: The invention concerns a plastic package, having a content capable of being sterilised at high temperature, said package comprising at least a fluid communication member (16) between the inside and the outside of said package consisting of at least a frame circumscribing an opening and an inner seal (18) closing the opening, and whereof the peripheral edge (18a, 22a) continuously linked to said frame, said inner seal including, a selectively sealing material sheet whereof the cutoff threshold from outside inwards, stops contaminating particles and allows through the thermal sterilising fluid, said selectively sealing material being deformable in the plane of said sheet at said high temperature.

Abstract: A method for preparing dental instruments for sterilization in which the instruments are put into a relatively large see-through heat sealable plastic bag. The bag is placed over a surface of an impulse heater and an arm is lowered to clamp the bag and apply two heat seals across the bag; one heat seal to enclose the instruments and a second parallel heat seal. A knife carried by the arm is used to cut between the two heat seals. This cutting operation forms a custom sized closed bag containing the instruments to be sterilized that is placed into an autoclave and sterilized. The cutting also forms a second bag, smaller than the original bag that is reserved for use in a subsequent packaging operation.

Abstract: A wire nail for use with a powered nail-driving tool has a full-round head with an axis that is offset from an axis of the integrally formed shank. An outer circumferential surface of the shank is at least as offset from the shank axis in one radial direction as a circumferential surface of the head in that radial direction. Accordingly, such nails may be collated shank-to-shank in a strip of wire nails such that adjoining shanks are both parallel and touching. During manufacture of the wire nail, a notch is formed in the shank at the intersection between the shank and the head. The notch and the head axis are disposed on opposite sides of the shank axis from each other. The notch facilitates improved metal flow during the head-forming procedure and results in strong shank to head connections.

Abstract: A continuous web of breather pouches separated by detachment lines and automated method of packaging medical devices using such a continuous web.

Abstract: A sterilizable package is formed of a first sheet connected to a second sheet. The first sheet forms a first side of the package and a portion of the second side of the package. The second sheet is connected to the first sheet to define an interior chamber of the package. The second sheet forms a portion of the second side of the package. The second sheet has a first edge. A plurality of slots are disposed along the first edge at predetermined spaced apart locations. The first sheet is folded over along a fold line, thereby forming a folded portion. The folded portion is connected to the second sheet. The folded portion forms a portion of the second side of the package. The fold line forms a first edge of the package. The first edge of the second sheet is in the interior of the package between the first side and the folded portion of the first sheet.

Abstract: A device and method for stabilizing a drug, particularly a chiral drug or the active enantiomer(s) thereof, in a carrier composition of a transdermal delivery system prior to the systems use by providing a product packaging system to prevent or control degradation reactions that can result from certain packaging materials and moisture contamination, while at the same time providing a child-resistant wrapping for the transdermal system.

Abstract: A tray system composed of a vertical stack of trays especially adapted to contain, and protect surgical instruments being carried from a sterilizer to an operating site. The trays may have various heights and be arranged in any order in the stack. Each tray includes a plurality of latches, each latch having an arm swingably mounted to the tray and terminated by a projection spaced a selected distance D1 above the tray rim or top when the latch is swung to its latching position. Each tray also includes a corresponding plurality of latching surfaces located under the latches on that tray. The distance D2 between the seating surfaces and latching surfaces of each tray corresponds substantially to the distance D1 of that tray. This enables the latch arms of each tray to be latched to the latching surfaces of an overlying tray in the stack or to a cover so as to form a closed compact transportable package. Different latch embodiments for securing the trays together are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sterile container, in particular for the receipt and sterile storage of surgical instruments or material, comprising a receiving chamber and a gas exchange opening that can be sealed using a sterile filter. The aim of the invention is to prevent undesired liquid from reaching the sterile filter. To achieve this, the exterior of the lid is provided with at least one inflow edge, which faces away from the gas exchange opening, and falls away towards the exterior in relation to a lid plane.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sterile container, especially for receiving and storing surgical instruments or material in sterile conditions, comprising and receiving area formed by a container bottom and container walls, a lid for sealing the receiving area, and a gas exchange opening which can be sealed by a sterile filter. In order to enable the sterile filter to be replaced in a simple manner, a filter unit is provided, comprising the sterile filter, a support and a holding element, the sterile filter is maintained between the support and the holding element and the filter unit is mounted on the lid and/or bottom of the container.

Abstract: The invention described herein relates to a filter system for sterilization containers which secures a gas permeable filter onto a vented portion of the container. The filter system of the invention includes a locking mechanism that is comfortable and easy to use, and that requires a simple sliding movement of the users hand to lock and unlock the filter system components in place. The invention further includes a filter system structured such that the openings of the filter system plates permit transport of air across the filter while at the same time the openings are arranged to reduce or prevent undesirable physical perforation of the filter. By virtue of its structure, the need for particular rotational positioning of filter components in relation to one another is significantly reduced. The filter system of the invention also reduces or eliminates the need for perimeter gaskets.

Abstract: A sealable sterilising material for packaging medical devices requiring sterilization, has an average burst strength not less than 200 kPa measured according to ISO 2758 standard, an average tear strength not less than 300 mN measured according to the European standard 21974, an average impact strength not less than 0.4 J measured according to the ASTM standard and a bacterial filtering efficiency (BFE) not less than 85%, with a basic weight ranging between 40 and 250 g/m2, preferably between 90 and 250 g/m2, measured according to the ISO 536 standard and includes at least two sterilising packaging sheets (F1) and (F2), one of them at least being sealable directly or after being coated with a sealing product. The sheets are bound irreversibly together by one of their surfaces. The invention also concerns a package made from the material.

Abstract: A container (30) for use in sterilizing an object has a first end (35) and a second end (38). The container (30) is suitably sized to receive an endoscopic telescope (45) for sterilization. Once the endoscopic telescope (45) has been inserted into the container (30), a lid (46) having a vapour permeable section (47) is fitted to the container. The container and object are then sterilized, for example, by autoclaving. After sterilization, use of the container requires a noon-sterile nurse in an operating theatre to push the ends (35, 38) together. A collapsible or deformable portion (42) collapses and the ends (35, 38) move closer together to thereby force the telescope (45) out of the container (30), where is can be removed by a sterile nurse.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrogen peroxide indicator that includes a substrate on which is disposed an indicator composition that includes at least one of a select group of colorants. As a result of contact with hydrogen peroxide, the colorants change color, and even become colorless, thereby providing an indication of the presence of hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: A tray system composed of a vertical stack of trays especially adapted to contain, and protect surgical instruments being carried from a sterilizer to an operating site. The trays may have various heights and be arranged in any order in the stack. Each tray includes a plurality of latches, each latch having an arm swingably mounted to the tray and terminated by a projection spaced a selected distance D1 above the tray rim or top when the latch is swung to its latching position. Each tray also includes a corresponding plurality of latching surfaces located under the latches on that tray. The distance D2 between the seating surfaces and latching surfaces of each tray corresponds substantially to the distance D1 of that tray. This enables the latch arms of each tray to be latched to the latching surfaces of an overlying tray in the stack or to a cover so as to form a closed compact transportable package. Different latch embodiments for securing the trays together are also disclosed.

Abstract: A sterilization container system for sterilizing instruments provides at least two sterilization enclosures separated vertically by a stacking device. The stacking device allows diffusion between the enclosures and into the enclosures through their upper and lower facing portions.

Abstract: A method and package for storing a pressurized container which is filled with a drug formulation at a predetermined pressure. The drug formulation includes a mixture of a drug and a propellant. The package which encloses the pressurized container substantially prevents ingression of water vapor and particulate matter into the package while permitting egression of the propellant which may leak from the pressurized container.

Abstract: The invention described herein relates to a filter system for sterilization containers which secures a gas permeable filter onto a vented portion of the container. The filter system of the invention includes a locking mechanism that is comfortable and easy to use, and that requires a simple sliding movement of the users hand to lock and unlock the filter system components in place. The invention further includes a filter system structured such that the openings of the filter system plates permit transport of air across the filter while at the same time the openings are arranged to reduce or prevent undesirable physical perforation of the filter. By virtue of its structure, the need for particular rotational positioning of filter components in relation to one another is significantly reduced. The filter system of the invention also reduces or eliminates the need for perimeter gaskets.

Abstract: A method and package for storing a pressurized container which is filled with a drug formulation at a predetermined pressure. The drug formulation includes a mixture of a drug and a propellant. The package which encloses the pressurized container substantially prevents ingression of water vapor and particulate matter into the package while permitting egression of the propellant which may leak from the pressurized container.

Abstract: A method and package for storing a pressurized container which is filled with a drug formulation at a predetermined pressure. The drug formulation includes a mixture of a drug and a propellant. The package which encloses the pressurized container substantially prevents ingression of water vapor and particulate matter into the package while permitting egression of the propellant which may leak from the pressurized container.

Abstract: A set of sterilization bags is provided, each bag being capable of holding a multiplicity of medical instruments, wherein each bag comprises at least two sides affixed together to form a bag with an opening capable of being in an open position to receive medical instruments and a closed position for sterilization, and further wherein at least two bags in the set are differentiated by a feature in at least one side of each bag.

Abstract: A packaging enclosure for receiving a flexible endoscope during a sterilization procedure and sterile storage thereafter has a portion thereof which is semi-permeable. Provision is made for hanging the packaging enclosure over a hook or peg. In one embodiment the packaging enclosure conforms to the endoscope so that its two flexible portions may hang over opposite sides of the hook. Alternatively, a hook or aperture may be provided on the packaging enclosure for hanging it over the hook.

Abstract: A medical package has a tub and a lid. The tub has a four-sided base with walls extending upwards therefrom; the walls terminate at a first flange with extends outwardly. From the first flange, four top walls extend upward and terminate at a second flange which extends outwardly. The tub is formed of a clear, ultraviolet light transmitting plastic.

Abstract: A sterilization container system comprises a lid. The container system has a wall positionable on a tray. The lid has a large aperture and small attachment apertures. A support is formed with an interior central circular disk. An exterior circular ring is provided. Ribs connect the ring and the disk. The disk has a central aperture. Small attachment apertures are provided for coupling the upper surface of the ring to the lower surface of the wall. A thin plate has a central aperture and a periphery. Also provided is a spring positioned between the disk and the plate. The spring and plate are adapted to expand when heated. A space is created between the plate and the disk whereby medical instruments within the container system will be sterilized. The spring and plate are adapted to contract when cooled. Any space between the plate and the disk will be eliminated.

Abstract: A flash sterilization container(10) comprises a pan(12) forming the bottom of the container holding a tray (14), with a cover (16) forming the top of the container, and a filter element (20). The filter (20) covers an opening in the cover (16) so that the inside of the container (10) formed when the cover is removably sealed to the pan (12) can communicate with the atmosphere surrounding the sealed container allowing steam to enter and exit the container passing through the filter (20). Items to be sterilized are placed on the tray (14) and the cover (16) is attached and sealed to the pan (12). The sealed container is then placed in an autoclave or other source of pressurized steam. The filter is composed of a material which will allow the pressurized steam to pass through but which is relatively impervious to dust and microorganisms thereby maintaining the sterility of the interior of the container and its contents.

Abstract: A medicament container, medicament dispensing kit and packaging process that minimizes exposure of the medication to oxygen to prevent degradation of the medication are disclosed.