| abstract |
One embodiment of the invention is directed to a method including an act of applying ultraviolet light to a region of tissue on a patient and/or to a catheter inserted into the patient to sterilize or disinfect the region. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an apparatus for performing the method. The apparatus comprises a housing and an ultraviolet light-emitting lamp disposed within the housing. The housing includes a light seal to substantially prevent light from traveling beyond the housing and the region of tissue during sterilization or disinfection. A further embodiment of the invention is directed to a device for use with a catheter and an ultraviolet light-emitting lamp. The device comprises a reflective surface adapted to be coupled to a catheter to direct light emitted by the ultraviolet light-emitting lamp to a portion of the catheter near an entrance site of the catheter. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method and apparatus for sterilizing or disinfecting a sterilization/disinfection device. |