Abstract: Methods and apparatus utilizing turbulent fluid flow to wash soiled items. A washing chamber (2) is connected to a pump (10) and contains a baffle (5) that divides or partially divides the chamber (2). The baffle (5) contains one or more openings (12) through which fluid surges in response to pressure generated by the pump (10). By using a reciprocating piston or diaphragm-type pump, back-and-forth fluid flow is generated. The fluid turbulence created by the fluid surging through the baffle openings creates a “scrubbing action” upon the surface of the items being washed.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for liquid, gas, and gas plasma sterilization of items. An item is located within a sterilizing apparatus and sterilized through the introduction of fresh sterilant at least once after an initial amount of sterilant is introduced into the apparatus. Alternatively, an item is contained within sterile packaging, positioned within a baffle, and sterilized through the flowing, including bi-directional flowing, of fresh sterilant. The apparatus includes one or multiple chambers within with cleaning and sterilizing take place.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus utilizing supplemental ozone treatment for ensuring sterility of instrument cleaning systems. By flushing ozonated water through the components of a cleaning system, the persistent problem of contamination of cleaner chambers, pipes or lines, and filters or banks of filters is effectively prevented. Thus, the integrity of sterilized instruments, such as lumened medical instruments, is more reliably achieved and maintained.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for reprocessing and packaging items. An item is cleaned within a push/pull reprocessing apparatus, contained within sterilizable packaging, and sterilized within said apparatus. Alternatively, an item is first cleaned and sterilized within a push/pull reprocessing apparatus and then contained within sterile packaging. The apparatus includes one or multiple chambers within which cleaning and/or sterilizing take place and dispenser of sterile or sterilizable packaging.

Abstract: Methods for single-step and rapid high-level or better disinfection utilizing a push/pull reprocessing apparatus and a predetermined mixture of detergent and sterilant. The accessible surfaces (including any lumens) of the soiled item or items to be disinfected are contacted with a mixture of detergent and sterilant or with detergent alone for a predetermined period followed by the addition of a sterilant. High-level disinfection or better is achieved within a 5 to 20 minute washing cycle period. A tracking function is also provided whereby the disinfection history of the item being reprocessed, the status of the reprocessing apparatus, whether the item is read-to-use, and the inventory of both items being reprocessed and the consumables used by the apparatus may be tracked.

Abstract: Methods of treating soiled items, such as medical instruments, with supplemental ozone treatment, such as combinations of ozone and one or more cleaning agents or sterilants, are provided. The methods involve treating soiled items with ozone to facilitate cleaning, ensure complete sterility, and degrade residual chemical agents, such as sterilants or cleaning agents, from both the instrument and wash/rinse effluent. By treating an item with ozone in a supplemental wash or rinse in cooperation with one or more other chemicals used to clean and sterilize the item, one can ensure that the item and effluent are free of soiling, infectious agents, and chemical residues while minimizing any oxidation-related damage to the item or pollution of the environment.