| 摘要 |
The invention provides an apparatus and method for destroying the metallic portion of an elongate medical instrument, such as a hypodermic needle or scalpel for example. One aspect of the invention relates to a method of destroying a metallic portion of a medical instrument having a longitudinal axis, a tip and shaft, the method comprising the steps of: locating the instrument in a position wherein the tip of the instrument electrically engages a contact surface of a first and second electrode, each electrode having the electrical contact surface disposed in opposition and separated by a gap, and each electrode in electrical contact with power source means for creating an electrical potential difference between the electrodes, the potential difference being sufficient to induce electrical resistance burning of the tip of the instrument when an electrical current is passed through the tip between the electrodes; and progressively advancing the instrument and the electrodes longitudinally relative to each other, whereby the burning of the tip of the instrument progressively consumes the shaft as the burning tip advances from the start position to a finish position continuously in electrical contact with each electrode. |
