Sterilizing apparatus incorporating recirculation of chamber atmosphere

摘要

Method and apparatus for sterilizing medical devices and the like. The apparatus comprises means for the recirculation of a sterilant gas and a diluting gas through narrow passages in the medical device in sufficient quantity and for sufficient time to sterilize bacteriologically, and then to aerate, exposed passage surfaces. The method comprises the circulation of a sterilant gas through a contaminated device bacteriologically to sterilize exposed surfaces, and thereafter to remove the sterilant gas by purging with sterile air or other inert gas.