| abstract |
A vaporizer (48) vaporizes a liquid solution of hydrogen peroxide or other strong oxidants to form a sterilant vapor which is entrained in a flow of sterile air. The sterilant vapor is conveyed to a manifold (12), (36), (40). A plurality of tubes or conduits (14) convey the sterilant vapor from the manifold into a interstitial space (18) between an inner, IV bag (24) and an outer overwrap (22). A vacuum pump (58) draws a negative pressure within an enclosure (42) to draw the sterilant vapor through the manifold, the delivery tubes, and the interstitial space and through the enclosure. The delivery tubes terminate opposite upper corners of the IV bag and are aimed in such a manner that the sterilant vapor gas flows through and contacts all surfaces which define the interstitial space. After sterilization, the sterilant vapor is displaced with sterile air and the IV bag assemblies are removed and the overwrap is sealed to prevent microbial recontamination. |