Importance

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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 in then placed in an autoclave or other source of pressurized steam. The filter (20) allows the steam to enter the interior of the container and sterilize any items contained therein. After sterilization, the container (10) is removed from the autoclave and any remaining steam escapes from the interior of the container through the filter (20). 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 it's contents. Examples of suitable filter materials are: paper; TEFLON.RTM.; hydrophobic material, such as GORE-TEX.RTM.; porous stainless steel and polysulfone. The filter (20) can be held in place with a filter retainer manufactured as a permanent part of the cover (16) or incorporated into a filter cartridge which is removably attached to the cover.

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First Claim