FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system for disinfecting skin tissue around cath eters according to the preamble of patent claims. Further disclosed are exemplary adaptors capable of disinfecting the skin tissue in situ near the insertion site of medical catheters and tubes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Intravenous transfusion is a widely popular technique for automated delivery of life-saving drugs and fluids directly into the patient’s body. This procedure in- volves a catheter, with one of its ends inserted into a vein, located at an appro priate site such as the subclavian vein, jugular vein, femoral vein or peripheral vein, depending on the specific treatment. A prime example of such catheters is the Central Venous Catheter (CVC), which has several sub-types like tunneled CVCs, non-tunneled CVCs, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) and the implanted port. The specific choice of a CVC is determined by the physician, depending on the estimated application period, which can range from a few days to several months. However, the use of catheters is associated with a range of infections, such as bloodstream infections commonly known as Central Line As sociated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI) and Catheter-related Bloodstream In- fections (CRBSI). CLABSI are a type of Hospital Acquired Infections (HAI), that can occur both in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), or in a non-ICU environment. Furthermore, CLABSI also occur in a non-hospital setting wherein a CVC is inserted into a patient for continual treatment such as in the family home or old-age homes. In regard to HAI, the US reports 1.7 million cases and the EU 4.2 million cases per year [World Health Organization. "Health care-associated infections fact sheet." World Health Organization 4 (2015)]. In addition to this, HAI like CLABSI often prolong hospital stays by 10 - 14 days. This leads to average additional costs of USD 30,000 per patient, which amounts to over several billions of USD in healthcare expenses every year. Given those circumstances, it is of utmost importance to not only ef fectively treat such a severe health problem, but also to strive to prevent the onset of such an infection.

Current recommendations by medical experts mandate an exhaustive multimodal approach [Zingg, Walter, et al. "Hospital-wide multidisciplinary, multimodal inter- vention programme to reduce central venous catheter-associated bloodstream infection." PloS one 9.4 (2014): e93898], consisting of several therapies to ensure a safe intravenous procedure. These therapies include careful skin preparation, catheter stabilization and securement, patient cleansing, and antibiotic treatment. Although the guidelines developed for these collective strategies have shown ef- fectiveness, it causes an immense burden on the healthcare workers to ensure consistency, in addition to the specialized training and education needed from the workers.

Over the past few decades, different technical solutions have also emerged to counter such infections [CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Guidelines for the Prevention of Intravascular Catheter-Related Infections”

(2011)]. One significant improvement pertains to the addition of a non-fouling coating on the inner lumen of the tubes. This technique slows down the rate of biofilm formation on the catheter surfaces, thus delaying the dwell time for CLABSI.

Another promising solution is offered by light-based therapies, which exploit the germicidal properties of light at certain wavelengths. A suitable candidate is Ul- traviolet-C (UVC) radiation, which ranges between 100-280 nm, and it is known to possess a bacteriostatic effect. However, earlier studies have shown that the radiation on the prevalent commercially- applied 254 nm can trigger a carcino genic effect [Blum, Harold F., and Stuart W. Lippincott. "Carcinogenic effective ness of ultraviolet radiation of wavelength 2537A." Journal of the National Cancer Institute 3.2 (1942): 211 -216]. Furthermore, it is also hazardous to the eye for its tendency to cause cataract in the eye, leading to blindness. Due to such prob- lems, UVC therapy has been limited to disinfection procedures that do not involve a direct exposure to the human body.

In this context, several medical device technologies have introduced potential concepts to use UVC for disinfecting surfaces of tubes and catheters. However, most of these solutions focus on the inner lumen, thereby shielding the human tissue from direct exposure to UVC radiation.

A recent light introduction device and sterilization system (EP3603692A1) pro poses a thick light-permeable member around a medical conduit. The described member allows propagation of UVC radiation, preferably between 270-340 nm, along the length of the conduit. However, this UVC wavelength falls in the range that is known to be hazardous. Furthermore, having such an external member surrounding a conduit like a CVC, will restrict the delivery of life-saving drugs and fluids, through the exit holes present along the surface of the CVC. Previous attempts for CVC (US2018369432A1 ; US2019262486A1 ;

WO201 5066238) consist of further concepts that involve disinfection of the inner lumen.

Recent in-vitro studies have demonstrated that at the Far-UVC range (< 230 nm), the radiation indeed has a germicidal effect without causing damage onto living tissues [Buonanno, Manuela, et al. "Germicidal efficacy and mammalian skin safety of 222-nm UV light." Radiation research 187.4 (2017): 493-501 ; Buonanno, Manuela, et al. "207-nm UV light — a promising tool for safe low-cost reduction of surgical site infections. II: In-vivo safety studies." PloS one 11.6 (2016): e0138418]. An application of this wavelength is described in the application WO2016187145, which discloses a portable battery powered laser source, con nected to optical fibers, in order to guide light again only into the lumen of the catheter.

In a concept from 2019, optical fibers are also incorporated longitudinally into the frame of different catheters (US20190168023A1). Besides that, light delivery is only possible to the skin underlying the catheter without targeting specifically the skin around and within the insertion site. In addition, the applied radiation should be preferably in the hazardous range of 400-500 nm wavelength. Due to this lon gitudinal design along the whole medical device, such catheters are constructed totally of optically transparent material. Potential side-effects for fluids and medi cations within the described material through light disinfection are not known.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has been realized as part of the present disclosure that once a catheter, such as a CVC, has been inserted into the skin, there is a risk of developing a bacterial biofilm, both on the inner lumen and outer surface of the CVC. This biofilm is a result of different types of bacteria present in the environment. The bacteria can accumulate around the insertion site of the catheter or tube. If the CVC slides in- and-out of the insertion hole due to patient’s body movements, it eventually en- ters the bloodstream. This may further lead to various infections, including blood stream infections such as Central Line Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI) and Catheter-related Bloodstream Infections (CRBSI).

The previously known systems for disinfecting skin tissue around catheters suffer from different drawbacks. These include poor to no disinfection of the skin tissue. Further drawbacks are adverse health consequences, such as allergic reactions, irritation, carcinogenic side-effects. A further challenge is that many pathogens present in the hospital might be resistant to treatment, such as antibiotic or anti septic treatment, including chlorhexidine. There is also a recurrent need of inter vention by the healthcare staff, which may be a further source of infection. Fur- thermore, known non-fouling coatings frequently only partially prevent adherence and are often not germicidal. It is therefore the general objective of the present invention to advance the state of the art with respect to systems for disinfecting skin tissue around catheters, in particular human skin tissue. In advantageous embodiments, the disadvantages of the prior art are overcome fully or partly. In advantageous embodiments, a system for disinfecting skin tissue is provided which is less harmful, in particular non-harmful. In advantageous embodiments, a system for disinfecting skin tissue is provided which targets all infection-prone regions including catheter and surrounding skin. In advantageous embodiments, a system for disinfecting skin tissue is provided which is free of chemicals, such as chemical disinfectants. In advantageous embodiments, a system for disinfect ing skin tissue is provided which does not have adverse health effects, such as inducing allergic reactions or irritations, which may possibly be due to certain an tiseptics. In advantageous embodiments, a system for disinfecting skin tissue is provided which overcomes antibiotic resistance. In advantageous embodiments, a system for disinfecting skin tissue is provided which shields the wound to path ogens, particularly external pathogens. In advantageous embodiments, a system for disinfecting skin tissue is provided which reduces the need for intervention or handling by hospital staff.

The general objective is solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments follow from the dependent claims and the overall disclosure.

In a first aspect, the general objective is achieved by a system for disinfecting skin tissue around catheters, which system comprises an adaptor. The adaptor defines a catheter entry opening for entry of a catheter into the adaptor and a catheter exit opening for exit of the catheter from the adaptor. The adaptor com prises an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface defines an inner cavity for receiving at least a section of the catheter, wherein the inner cavity extends from the catheter entry opening to the catheter exit opening. The system further comprises at least one light source for emitting UVC light, wherein the light source is arranged such that the UVC light is emitted away from and/or within the adaptor. In some embodiments, the light source is arranged such that the UVC light is emitted away from the adaptor and/or within the adaptor. In some embod- iments, the light source is arranged such that the UVC light is emitted away from the adaptor, particularly only away from the adaptor.

The system disclosed herein may be used to disinfect the skin tissue around a catheter that is inserted through the skin of a subject, such as a mammal, e.g. a human or animal, such as a human patient. The adaptor may be placed around the catheter before, during or after insertion of the catheter into the skin and the adaptor may be placed close to or directly at the human skin. The light source may then emit UVC light to the skin of the subject surrounding the catheter, which leads to disinfection of the skin. Thereby, the risk of pathogenic infections is greatly reduced. The UVC light emission may be performed intermittently or con- tinuously. The intensity level, the duration and the time interval of the application can vary with the different catheterization processes and the state of the patient.

A catheter is a tube than can be inserted into the body. Typically, the catheter enables transfer of a liquid between the inside and the outside of the body. As an example, a catheter may be used to supply the body with a liquid, such as a drug. For example, the catheter is inserted through the human skin. As an example, the catheter may be a venous catheter, such as a central venous catheter. In some embodiments, the skin tissue is human skin tissue, particularly the epider mis and/or dermis. In some embodiments, the system for disinfecting skin tissue around catheters disclosed herein is a device for disinfecting skin tissue around catheters and the adaptor is a device body.

In some embodiments, the catheter entry opening and the catheter exit opening each have an opening cross section that corresponds to the cross section of the catheter. In some embodiments, the catheter entry opening and the catheter exit opening may each be circular, particularly with a diameter from 0.1 mm to 30 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 15 mm, more preferably from 0.5 mm to 12 mm, more preferably from 1 mm to 11.3 mm. In some embodiments, the catheter entry opening and the catheter exit opening may each be circular, in particular with a diameter from 1 mm to 5 mm, such as from 2 mm to 3 mm.

In some embodiments, the inner surface of the adaptor defines an inner cavity for receiving and guiding at least a section of the catheter. As an example, the inner surface of the adaptor may be complementary to the surface of the catheter. One advantage of this is that the catheter is securely held by the adaptor. In fur- ther embodiments, the inner cavity may be essentially tubular, e.g. with a diame ter from 1 mm to 20 mm, particularly from 1.2 mm to 12 mm. In some embodi ments, the inner cavity extends essentially longitudinally from the catheter entry opening to the catheter exit opening. UVC light is defined as light with a wavelength in the range from 100 nm to 280 nm. In some embodiments, the UVC light is in the range from 180 nm to 260 nm, particularly from 180 nm to 235 nm, more particularly from 200 nm to 230 nm, more particularly 220 nm ± 5 nm. In some embodiments, the light source is con figured such that the UVC light is emitted away from the adaptor, particularly away from the outer surface of the adaptor. In some embodiments, the light sources are arranged such that the UVC light is emitted away from the adaptor, particularly away from the outer surface of the adaptor, at a light emitting angle of 45° - 135°, particularly 80° - 100°, more particularly 90°. The light emitting angle is the angle at which the UVC light is emitted away from the adaptor. In particular, the light emitting angle is measured relative to the outer surface that surrounds the light source. As an example, a light emitting angle of 90° means that the UVC light is emitted perpendicularly away from the adaptor. In some em bodiments, the light sources are configured to emit the UVC light at a cone angle of up to 170°, such as up to 120°, such as up to 90°.

In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one light sources is arranged on the outer surface of the adaptor. In some embodiments, the at least one light source, particularly all light sources, is arranged on the outer surface of the adap tor. In some embodiments, no light source is arranged on the inner surface of the adaptor. In other words, in these embodiments, the inner surface of the adaptor is free from light sources. In further embodiments, the light sources are arranged such that less than 5%, preferably less than 2%, more preferably less than 1%, even more preferably 0%, of the emitted UVC light is emitted towards the inner surface of the adaptor. In some embodiments, the at least one light source is arranged such that the UVC light that is emitted from the at least one light source is not emitted towards the inner cavity of the adaptor. One advantage of these embodiments is that a catheter that is placed inside the adaptor is not exposed to UVC radiation, which may cause harm or damages to the catheter. As a result, these embodiments create a mild environment for the catheter and enable the use of a broad range of different catheters, including ones which are susceptible to damages caused by UVC radiation. A further advantage of these embodiments is that the UVC radiation is concentrated to the skin tissue around the catheter, which leads to a high energy efficiency.

In some embodiments, the light source is configured for emitting UVC light away from and/or within the adaptor. In some embodiments, the light source is config ured for emitting UVC light away from the adaptor. In some embodiments, the light source is configured for emitting UVC light only away from the adaptor.

In some embodiments, the light source is configured such that, when a catheter is inserted into the system such that an outer section of the catheter is arranged outside the system and protrudes from the catheter exit opening, the outer sec tion of the catheter is irradiated with the UVC light emitted from the light source. In some embodiments, the outer section of the catheter has a length from 1 mm to 100 mm, preferably from 5 mm to 30 mm.

In some embodiments, the inner surface of the adaptor is coated with a coating, particularly with an antimicrobial coating, such as an antibacterial and/or antiviral coating. Preferably, in these embodiments, the inner surface of the adaptor is configured such that the coating is in physical contact with the catheter around which the adaptor is placed. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the adapter comprises a front outer surface, as described in further detail below. In some embodiments, the front outer surface of the adaptor is coated with a coat ing, particularly with an antimicrobial coating, such as an antibacterial and/or an tiviral coating. The coating may, for example, comprise chlorhexidine, silver sul- fadiazine, minocycline rifampin, povidone iodine antiseptic ointment or bacitracin / gramicidin / polymyxin B ointment, or any combination thereof. The inner surface of the adaptor and/or the front outer surface of the adapter may, for example, be coated with the coating by way of a patch, such as an adhesive patch. The system may therefore further comprise an adhesive patch comprising the coating. The adhesive patch may have a shape that is identical to the front outer surface of the adaptor.

One advantage of these embodiments is that microorganisms, particularly path ogens such as viruses or bacteria, that are located on the outer surface of the catheter or on the system, such as the adaptor, and may otherwise enter the body through the catheter, are killed, which reduces the risk of diseases associated with the use of catheters, such as hospital acquired infections.

In some embodiments, the at least one light source is at least partially arranged adjacent to, in particular around, the catheter exit opening and is configured such that UVC light can be emitted away from the adaptor, particularly away from the outer surface of the adaptor. At least partially, in this context, means that, where the system comprises more than one light source for emitting UVC light, at least one of the light sources is arranged adjacent to, in particular around, the catheter exit opening. In some embodiments, when the adapter is placed around a cathe ter, the UVC light is emitted away from the adaptor, in the direction of the catheter exiting the adaptor. In some embodiments, the at least one light source is ar ranged within 10 cm, particularly within 5 cm, more particularly within 1 cm, from the catheter exit opening. In some embodiments, the at least one light source is arranged within a ring surrounding the catheter exit opening and having a radius of 10 cm, particularly 5 cm, more particularly 1 cm. In some embodiments, the at least one light source is arranged within a ring surrounding the catheter exit open ing, wherein the ring has a circular outer circumference from 6 mm to 160 mm, particularly from 9 mm to 80 mm. In some embodiments, the ring has a diameter from 2 mm to 50 mm, particularly from 3 mm to 25 mm. In some embodiments, the catheter exit opening is arranged centrally within the ring surrounding the catheter exit opening. In some embodiments, the center point of the ring sur rounding the catheter exit opening lies on the center point of the catheter exit opening. As an example, if the catheter exit opening is circular, the center point of the catheter exit opening may be identical with the center point of the ring sur- rounding the catheter exit opening. One advantage of these embodiments is that they ensure that the UVC light is emitted selectively into those areas of the skin that surround the catheter. Since these areas of the skin are particularly vulnera ble and prone to infection, these embodiments efficiently reduce the overall risk of infection. In some embodiments, the light sources, such as the light emitting openings of the one or more light guides, are distributed evenly around the catheter exit open ing. The even distribution contributes to an even radiation of the skin around the catheter, which enhances the fidelity of the disinfection. In some embodiments, the at least one light source includes one or more of the following: a light-emitting diode (LED), a laser, a flash lamp, an excimer, an arc lamp, a field emission source, a wide band semiconductor, and a photo-excited emission source, such as a UV phosphor. The field emission source may, for example, be a field emission lamp, such as a (cathode) luminescent phosphor. In some embodiments, all light sources are LEDs. One advantage of using LEDs is that large areas may be illuminated.

In some embodiments, the at least one light source is suitable for emitting UVC light at a radiant flux of at least 100 pW, preferably from 400 pW to 25000 pW. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a light guide which is con figured for guiding UVC light from a light receiving opening of the light guide to at least one light emitting opening of the light guide, wherein the at least one light source includes a light emitting opening of the light guide. A light guide is a fiber, such as an optical fiber, which is suitable for guiding light. In some embodiments, the light guide comprises a light emitting end section defining the light emitting opening. In some embodiments, the light emitting end section has a length from 0.5 mm to 30 mm, such as from 1 mm to 15 mm, wherein the length extends along a longitudinal direction of the light guide.

In some embodiments, the light emitting end section of the light guide comprises a beam expander for expanding the cross section of the emitted UVC light, such that the emitted UVC light preferably has an illumination diameter of up to 4 cm ² , preferably from 1 cm ² to 4 cm ² . One advantage of these embodiments is that they enable a large area of skin to be irradiated. In some embodiments, the light emitting end section tapers towards the light emit ting opening of the light guide. In other words, in these embodiments, the cross section of the light emitting end section decreases towards the light emitting opening. One advantage of this is that it decreases the light spot size and in- creases divergence.

In some embodiments, the cross section increases, in particular continuously in creases, towards the light emitting opening. In other words, in these embodi ments, the light emitting end section is funnel-shaped. One advantage of these embodiments is that the light spot size is increased and the intensity density of the emitted light is decreased.

In some embodiments, the light emitting end section is spherical. One advantage of this is that the light collection angle is increased.

In some embodiments, the light emitting end section comprises a lens. One ad vantage of this is that the divergence of the emitted light is increased and the illuminated area is increased.

In some embodiments, the light emitting end section has a spherical cross sec tion. In some embodiments, the light emitting end section comprises a diffuser. One advantage of this embodiment is that the light emitted from the light emitting opening is already diffused, thus illuminating a large area of skin. A light guide comprises a first end and a second end. Preferably, the light receiv ing opening is arranged on the first end of the light guide and the light emitting opening is arranged on the second end of the light guide. Optionally, the light guide additionally includes light emitting openings arranged between the first and second end. A light guide which additionally includes light emitting openings ar ranged between its ends may be labelled side-emitting. A light guide which in cludes a light emitting opening that is arranged on one of the ends of the light guide may be labelled end-emitting. Side emission may, for example, be achieved by micro engravings the light guide.

In some embodiments, the light guide comprises a third end and may further comprise a fourth end and, optionally, even more ends. As an example, a light guide may include a light beam spread point connecting the first end, the second end and the third end. For example, light may enter the light guide through the first end, may pass through the light guide up to the light beam spread point, and may be spread into a first beam portion passing to the second end of the light guide and a second beam portion passing to the third end of the light guide. It is understood that the light guide may additionally comprise further light beam spread points and further ends. One advantage of these embodiments is that including light beam spread points reduces the overall amount, volume and weight of light guides, which reduces the weight and volume.

One advantage of the use of light guides is that they avoid the risks associated with electric components, such as shock or heat near the vulnerable skin tissue. In some embodiments, the light guides include optical fibers. Furthermore, exam ples of light guides include liquid light guides and solarization-resistant light guides, such as solarization-resistant optical fibers. In some embodiments, the system further comprises at least one emission cham ber which comprises at least one of the at least one light sources and optionally further comprises a filter and/or a diffuser. In these embodiments, the filter and/or the diffuser are preferably arranged such that the UVC light emitted from the light source passes through the filter and/or diffuser. In some embodiments, the filter is configured for selectively filtering light with a wavelength outside the UVC range. In other words, in these embodiments, only UVC light may pass through the filter. This ensures that the skin is only exposed to UVC light with wavelengths in a desired range of interest. Once again, this ensures that the damages to the skin caused by radiation are minimized. In some embodiments, the diffuser is configured to scatter the UVC light such that diffused UVC light is emitted to the skin around the catheter. In some embodiments, the diffuser includes a fused silica glass or a magnesium fluoride glass, wherein the glass surface is preferably ground, etched or frosted. One advantage of the diffuser is that the skin around the catheter is irradiated evenly with UVC radiation. In other words, ideally, the entire surface area of the skin around the catheter is subjected to UVC radiation. This contributes to a high reliability and reproducibility and further reduces the risk of infections.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises an emission chamber. The emission chamber comprises at least one of the at least one light source. As an example, the emission chamber may comprise the light emitting opening of at least one light guide and/or may comprise at least one LED. In some embodi ments, the emission chamber comprises the at least one light source, e.g. all light sources. In a typical embodiment, the at least one light source is arranged inside the emission chamber. In some embodiments, the at least one light source is arranged such that UVC light can be emitted from the emission chamber. In some embodiments, the emission chamber comprises a filter, which is arranged inside the emission chamber. In some embodiments, the filter is arranged such that the UVC light emitted from the light source passes through the filter. In some embod- iments, the emission chamber comprises a diffuser, which is arranged inside the emission chamber. In some embodiments, the diffuser is arranged such that the UVC light emitted from the light source passes through the diffuser.

In some embodiments, the at least one emission chamber forms part of the outer surface of the adaptor, preferably of the front outer surface of the adaptor. The surface of the emission chamber that forms part of the outer surface of the adap tor is defined as a front exterior surface of the emission chamber. The front exte rior surface of the emission chamber may, for example, have an area from 1 mm ² to 4 cm ² , preferably from 3 mm ² to 2 cm ² . In some embodiments, the front exterior surface of the emission chamber is rectangular. In some embodiments, the front exterior surface of the emission chamber is circular. In some embodiments, the emission chamber has a thickness from 1 mm to 30 mm, preferably from 5 mm to 15 mm. The thickness preferably extends orthogonal to the front exterior sur face of the emission chamber. The thickness may also extend along the inner cavity. In some embodiments, the emission chamber has an inner surface, which is at least partially, preferably fully, covered with a scattering layer configured to scat ter and reflect UVC light. In some embodiments, the scattering layer is configured to reflect at least at least 50%, particularly at least 60%, more particularly at least 70%, more particularly at least 80%, more particularly at least 90%, more partic ularly at least 95%, more particularly at least 98%, more particularly 100%, of incident UVC light. In some embodiments, the scattering layer is configured to scatter at least at least 50%, particularly at least 60%, more particularly at least 70%, more particularly at least 80%, more particularly at least 90%, more partic ularly at least 95%, more particularly at least 98%, more particularly 100%, of the incident UVC light. In some embodiments, at least 50%, particularly at least 60%, more particularly at least 70%, more particularly at least 80%, more particularly at least 90%, of the inner surface of the emission chamber is covered with the scattering layer. In some embodiments, the scattering layer may comprise, e.g. be made of, aluminum. As a further example, the scattering layer may comprise, preferably be made of, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). As a further example, the scattering layer may comprise, e.g. be made of, UV phosphor. The UV phosphor may, for example, be activated by an electron beam. In some embodiments, at least the inner surface of the emission chamber that is closest to the rear outer surface of the adaptor is covered with a scattering layer. One advantage of these embodiments is that they increase the intensity of the UVC light emitted from the emission chamber by scattering light beams that would otherwise not be reflected but instead be absorbed. In some embodiments, the scattering layer is arranged opposite the filter and/or the diffuser. One advantage of using a scattering layer made of PTFE is that it may be used with an MRI procedure as it does not inter fere with the MRI procedure. One further advantage of PTFE is that it has higher reflectivity than aluminum.

In some embodiments, the at least one emission chamber is arranged within 1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 1 mm to 20 mm, from the catheter exit opening. In some embodiments, the system comprises at least two, preferably from two to ten, more preferably from four to eight emission chambers. In some embodi ments, each emission chamber comprises from one to 15, preferably from one to six, more preferably one light source. The light source may, for example, be an LED or a light emitting opening of a light guide. In some embodiments, the emis sion chambers are arranged within 1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 1 mm to 20 mm, from the catheter exit opening. In some embodiments, the emission chambers each have the same distance from the catheter exit opening and from each other. In other words, the emission chambers may be arranged in a symmetrical fashion around the catheter exit opening. One advantage of these embodiments is that they enable a uniform irradiation of the skin. As an example, the emission cham bers may be arranged in a hexagonal fashion around the catheter exit opening.

In some embodiments, the system comprises one emission chamber. In some embodiments, the one emission chamber comprises from three to 15, particularly from four to eight, such as six, light sources. The light sources may, for example, include LEDs or light emitting openings of light guides. In some embodiments, the emission chamber surrounds the catheter exit opening. In some embodi ments, the emission chamber is arranged within 1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 1 mm to 20 mm, from the catheter exit opening. One advantage of these embodi- ments is that they enable a uniform irradiation of the skin. In some embodiments, the catheter exit opening forms part of the emission chamber. As an example, the catheter may extend through the emission chamber.

In some embodiments, the emission chamber may be flush with the surrounding outer surface of the adaptor. As an example, the front exterior surface of the adaptor may be flush with the surrounding outer surface of the adaptor. One ad vantage of these embodiments is that the system has a smooth outer surface which may securely rest on, e.g., the skin of a patient. Furthermore, these em bodiments contribute to an efficient and focused emission of UVC radiation only to the skin around that catheter, and not to other parts of the skin, which increases the efficiency and minimizes the overall risk of damages caused to the skin by radiation. In some embodiments, the filter and/or the diffuser form part of the outer surface of the adapter. As an example, the filter and/or the diffuser may enclose the emission chamber. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the adaptor defines a recess located around the catheter exit opening. The emission chamber or the at least one light source may be arranged in the recess. One advantage of these embodiments is that by being arranged in the recess, the at least one light source is protected from damage. A further advantage is that the recess focusses the UVC light emit- ted from the light source and thus limits the area of skin that is exposed to UVC radiation, which reduces the overall risk of skin damage caused by UVC radiation.

In some embodiments, the outer surface of the adaptor comprises a front outer surface surrounding the catheter exit opening, a rear outer surface opposite the front outer surface and a side outer surface arranged between the front outer surface and the rear outer surface. In some of these embodiments, the light source is configured such that light is emitted away from the front outer surface.

The front outer surface and the rear outer surface may, for example, have a sim ilar shape and/or size. As an example, the front outer surface and/or the rear outer surface may be oval, such as circular or elliptic. The front outer surface and/or the rear outer surface may have a surface area from 0.25 cm ² to 20 cm ² , such as from 0.5 cm ² to 12 cm ² . In some embodiments, the front outer surface and the rear outer surface are essentially parallel to each other. In some embod- iments, the rear outer surface surrounds the catheter entry opening.

In some embodiments, the adaptor has a volume from 0.05 cm ³ to 40 cm ³ , par ticularly from 0.15 cm ³ to 15 cm ³ .

In some embodiments, the side outer surface is a mantle surface. In some em bodiments, the side outer surface surrounds the adaptor circumferentially. In some embodiments, the side outer surface has a surface area from 0.02 cm ² to 18 cm ² , particularly from 0.21 cm ² to 10 cm ² . In some embodiments, the front outer surface and the rear outer surface are separated by an adaptor height from 1 mm to 25 mm, particularly from 3 mm to 10 mm. The adaptor height may cor respond to a height of the side outer surface. In some embodiments, the ratio of the surface area of the front outer surface and the rear outer surface is between 0.5:1 and 1 :0.5, preferably 1 :1.

In some embodiments, the front outer surface is essentially planar and suitable for resting the system on the skin, particularly directly on the skin. This contributes to a controlled radiation of the skin and thus minimizes the risk of skin damage caused by excessive UVC radiation.

In some embodiments, the emission chamber forms part of the front outer surface of the adaptor. Preferably, the emission chamber is arranged around the catheter exit opening. These embodiments enable the regioselective irradiation of only those parts of the skin that surround the catheter that was, is or will be inserted into the skin. This ensures that the overall risk of skin damage associated with UVC radiation is reduced. In some embodiments, at least 50%, such as at least 60%, particularly at least

70%, more particularly at least 80%, even more particularly 90%, preferably all emission chambers, form part of the front outer surface of the adaptor. In some embodiments, at least 50%, such as at least 60%, particularly at least 70%, more particularly at least 80%, even more particularly 90%, preferably all light sources form part of the front outer surface of the adaptor. The light sources may include one or more light emitting openings of at least one light guide and/or one or more

LEDs.

In some embodiments, the system comprises 1-20, preferably 3-7, such as 5, light guides, each light guide having at least one, preferably multiple, light emitting openings. The light guides may be end-emitting and may optionally additionally be side-emitting. In some embodiments, each light guide comprises an external section arranged outside the adaptor and an internal section arranged inside the adaptor. In some embodiments, the adaptor comprises a light guide entry open ing for entry of the light guide into the adaptor. In some embodiments, the light guide entry opening is arranged in the side outer surface of the adaptor. The light guides may be at least partially bundled together to form one or more light guide bundles. In some embodiments, the external sections of the one or more light guides are bundled together to form a light guide bundle. The internal sections of the one or more light guides may or may not be bundled. The light guide bundles reduce the number of lose light guides and thus render the system more practical for handling and for use.

In some embodiments, the light guides are solarization-resistant. Solarization- resistant means that the transmission of UVC light is increased and the material degradation induced by UV exposure is reduced. Solarization resistance may be achieved by high -OH fused silica coating of the fiber core.

In some embodiments, the adaptor comprises, particularly consists of, a first adaptor portion and a second adaptor portion which are releasably connectable to each other, preferably in a form-fit fashion. Releasably, in this context, means that the structural integrity of the first adaptor portion and the second adaptor portion is not destroyed. It includes multiple connection and disconnection cycles. In a typical embodiment, the first adaptor portion and the second adaptor portion are detachable. In some embodiments, the first adaptor portion and the second adaptor portion each have a connecting surface that intersects, particularly bi- sects, the cavity of the adaptor, such that the first adaptor portion comprises a first section of the inner surface of the adaptor and the second adaptor portion comprises a second section of the inner surface of the adaptor. The first section of the inner surface of the adaptor and the second section of the inner surface of the adaptor may have a complementary shape. In some embodiments, the first adaptor portion and the second adaptor portion each have a connecting surface that intersects, particularly bisects, the cavity of the adaptor longitudinally. Longi tudinally refers to the longitudinal direction of the cavity, which extends from the catheter entry opening to the catheter exit opening. In some embodiments, the cavity is essentially tubular and the longitudinal direction refers to the direction along which the tube extends, i.e. the length of the tube.

These embodiments facilitate placement of the adaptor around the catheter. In particular, they make possible that the adaptor can be placed around a catheter after the catheter has already been inserted into the skin of the patient. The form- fit fashion enhances the stability of the system after placement around the cath eter and thus enhance the security and fidelity with which the skin around the catheter may be disinfected.

In some embodiments, the adaptor is made of a material which is impermeable for UVC radiation. Impermeable, in this context, means that the transmission of UVC radiation is less than 10%, particularly less than 5%, more particularly less than 1%, more particularly 0%. As an example, the adaptor may be made of a polymer, particularly a polymer that is opaque to deep UV light. These embodi ments ensure that only those sections of the skin that are around the catheter are irradiated and that other sections of the skin are not subjected to UVC radiation. As a result, the overall risk of UVC radiation-associated skin damages is reduced.

In some embodiments, the system, particularly the adaptor, is essentially tubular. It may have a diameter from 2 mm to 50 mm, particularly from 2 mm to 30 mm, more particularly from 2 mm to 12 mm. The shape may be tapered towards the front outer surface. One advantage of these embodiments is that they facilitate insertion of the system, particularly the adaptor, into the skin, such as the epider mis or, optionally, the dermis. In some embodiments, the system comprises 1-20, preferably 3-7, such as 5, light sources. The light sources may include one or more of the following: LEDs and/or light guides, particularly light emitting openings of one or more light guides. As an example, the system may comprise 1-7, particularly 3 LEDs. The system may, alternatively or additionally, comprise 1-20, preferably 3-7, such as 5, light guides. The light guides may comprise at least one, such as 1-20 light emitting openings. In some embodiments, the total number of light sources is less than 20, such as less than 10, such as 7. One advantage of using seven light sources is that seven corresponding light guides can be efficiently packed in a hexagonal configuration.

These embodiments were found to strike an advantageous balance between providing sufficient UVC radiation for effective disinfection of the skin around a catheter, and not providing excessive UVC radiation, which would increase the risk of UVC radiation-related skin damage. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a UVC light generator which is in optical communication with the light receiving opening of at least one light guide. The UVC light generator preferably comprises a laser and/or an excimer. In some embodiments, the light generator is connected with the light receiving opening of the at least one light guide. In some embodiments, the light generator generates UVC light, preferably only UVC light. In some embodiments, the light generator is portable. This renders the system more practical. As an example, the light generator may be attached to or positional at a patient’s bed or other medical infrastructure. In some embodiments, the system comprises a guide element for securing and guiding the catheter and, optionally, the at least one optical guide. The guide el ement is preferably separate from the adaptor. The guide element comprises an essentially planar resting surface for resting the guide element on the skin, and a ring-shaped jacket for securing the catheter, wherein the ring-shaped jacket is openable. Preferably, the ring-shaped jacket is releasably openable. The guide element enhances the fixation of the catheter on the skin and thus contributes to controlled disinfection of the skin.

The general objective is achieved in a second aspect of the invention by a cath- eter assembly comprising a catheter and a system as disclosed herein, in partic ular with respect to the first aspect of the invention. The catheter is inserted into the adaptor of the system as disclosed herein, in particular with respect to the first aspect of the invention.

The general objective is achieved in a third aspect of the invention by a method of disinfecting skin tissue around a catheter inserted into the skin of a patient. The method comprises mounting the system disclosed herein, in particular with respect to the first aspect of the invention, to the catheter. The method further comprises, subsequently, positioning the system such that the outer surface of the adaptor, preferably the front outer surface, is within 2 cm of, preferably within 1 cm of, more preferably in contact with, the skin tissue around the catheter. The method further comprises, subsequently, irradiating the skin tissue around the catheter with UVC light emitted from the at least one light source. Mounting of the system may, for example, comprise inserting the catheter into the system, partic ularly into the adaptor disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of providing a cath eter as disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the skin tissue is irradiated intermittently or constantly. In some embodiments, the skin tissue is irradiated for 0.01 seconds - 60 minutes per application.

In some embodiments, the skin tissue around the catheter is irradiated with UVC light emitted through the light emitting opening of at least one light guide.

In some embodiments, the UVC light emitted from the at least one light source, particularly from the at least one light emitting opening of the at least one light guide, is emitted at a radiant flux of at least 100 pW, preferably from 400 pW to 25000 pW. The indicated ranges refer to the radiant flux of the emitted light.

The general objective is achieved in a fourth aspect of the invention by use of a catheter in a system, in particular with respect to the first aspect of the invention as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the use of the catheter is ex vivo. Further disclosed is, according to a fifth aspect, a system consisting of an adaptor with light guides for in situ disinfection of skin tissue around catheters and tubes using UVC light.

In some embodiments, the adaptor can be placed around the catheter close to or directly at the human skin. In some embodiments, the adaptor can be placed and inserted around the cath eter in the epidermis layer within the perforation site.

In some embodiments, the light guides are configured to emit light to target the exterior area of tissues around the insertion site. In some embodiments, the light guides can target the epidermis layer within the insertion site. In some embodi ments, the light guides can target the outer wall of the catheter. In some embod iments, the light guides can be optical fibers built in the adaptor. In some embod iments, the light guides can be optical fibers attachable to the adaptor. In some embodiments, the light guides can be solarization resistant optical fibers. In some embodiments, the light guides can be side-emitting optical fibers and/or end-tip- emitting optical fibers.

In some embodiments, the light guides can be supplemented by in situ light-emit ting resources such as LEDs, photo-excited emissions or chemical reactions.

In some embodiments, the UVC light is within the wavelengths 200 nm and 230 nm, preferably at a narrow-band around the wavelength 220 nm.

In some embodiments, the system can be optically coupled to an UVC light source by means of additional light guides.

In some embodiments, the UVC light source can be connected simultaneously to several adaptors via light guides for the disinfection of multiple catheters or tubes. In some embodiments, the UVC light source can be either a laser, an excimer or has an incorporated filter for selecting the desired wavelength. In some embodiments, the UVC light source can be attached to the wall, to the patient’s bed or to other medical infrastructure.

In some embodiments, the UVC light source can be programmed with an elec tronic or mechanic device for therapy-adaptability in terms of parameters such as light intensity and time duration. This device can be linked to a micro-controller- based interface for usability and data collection.

In some embodiments, the adaptor consists of non-transparent outer layer mate rial in UVC to restrict and control the area of the disinfection process.

In some embodiments, the adaptor can consist of multiple parts that will be as- sembled via a coupling mechanism.

In some embodiments, the adaptor can be fixed in place by means of a bandage, a plaster or a strap-on around the body or limbs.

The adaptor is constructed for medical catheters and tubes that are inserted into the patient for different purposes such as intravenous delivery of drugs, chest drainage, dialysis and air ventilation among others. Within the adaptor, light guides such as optical fibers are placed that target in situ, directly the infection- prone sites. This refers to the skin around and within the insertion hole by shining Far-UVC light (200 nm - 230 nm) for disinfection. Those optical fibers can deliver light by end-point-emitting or side-emitting designs. In some embodiments, the adaptor itself is placed around the catheter before, during or after the insertion process. A coupling mechanism closes the adaptor around the catheter. Eventually, it will be fixed and placed close to or directly at the human skin.

The UVC light source, such as a laser or excimer among others, may be fixed at a bed or other infrastructure and may emit light in specific intervals through light guides to the adaptor.

The intensity level, the duration and the time interval of the application can vary with the different catherization processes and the state of the patient. Once it is coupled and the light guides in the adaptor are connected to the UVC source, the disinfection may be performed automatically or manually. Although medical catheters and tubes that are inserted into a patient, e.g. for intravenous delivery of drugs, are essential life-saving devices, they are also po tentially damaging to the patient’s health. The reason being that common patho gens can form a biofilm on the device’s surface and on the human skin around the insertion point of these catheters and tubes, thereby increasing the risk of infection. In some embodiments, the system is a disinfection device which may be used as an add-on adaptor for plug-and-play application onto catheters and tubes that shine and target in situ Far-UVC light (200 nm - 230 nm) through light guides such as optical fibers on the infection-prone site of the human skin. The disclosure primarily concerns intravenous catheters including peripherally in- serted central catheters (PICC), but it can also be implemented for other medical catheters and tubes such as chest drainage tubes, indwelling pleural catheters (I PCs), urinary tract catheters, long-term and short-term hemodialysis catheters, peritoneal dialysis catheters, external ventricular drainage (EVD) tube, endotra cheal tubes, diabetes procedures and artificial stoma procedures, among others.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments, and are intended to provide an over- view or framework for understanding the nature and character of the disclosure. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings il lustrate various embodiments, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operation of the concepts disclosed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention described herein will be more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings which should not be considered limiting to the invention described in the appended claims. The drawings show: Fig. 1 shows embodiments (Fig. 1 a-1 f) of the system disclosed herein fea turing light guides;

Fig. 2 shows different embodiments of the system disclosed herein featuring a diffuser (Fig. 2a-2e) and an emission chamber (Fig. 2f-2h);

Fig. 3 shows embodiments (Fig. 3a-3c) of the system disclosed herein fea turing a filter and an antimicrobial coating;

Fig. 4 shows embodiments (Fig. 4a-4c) of the system disclosed herein fea turing LEDs; Fig. 5 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a front (Fig. 5a) and side perspective view (Fig. 5b) of an exemplary embodi ment of an adaptor with in-built optical fibers;

Fig. 6 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adaptor with a first version of in-built optical fibers;

Fig. 7 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adaptor with a second version of in-built optical fibers; Fig. 8 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adaptor with a third version of coiled in-built optical fibers;

Fig. 9 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adaptor that shows a coupling mechanism;

Fig. 10 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a front, side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a second ver sion adaptor with in-built optical fibers in short distance to the skin;

Fig. 11 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a second version adaptor with in-built optical fibers in short distance to the skin;

Fig. 12 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a front, side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an insertion unit in the insertion hole with in-built optical fibers; Fig. 13 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adaptor with in built optical fibers for a chest drainage tube;

Fig. 14 shows, for example relating to the fifth aspect of the disclosure, a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adaptor for an external ventricular drainage tube which is inserted into the skull of a patient. DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to certain embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all features are shown. Indeed, embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Whenever possible, like reference numbers will be used to refer to like components or parts.

Figures 1a-1e show an embodiment of the system 3 disclosed herein. The sys- tern 3 comprises an adaptor 4 that is placed around a catheter 2, which is inserted in the skin 1 of a human patient. The adaptor 4 rests on the skin 1. The adaptor 4 comprises a catheter entry opening 5 and a catheter exit opening 6 through which the catheter 2 enters and exits the adaptor 4, respectively. The system 3 further comprises a light guide 8, which enters the adaptor 4 through a light guide entry opening 7. The adaptor 4 illustrated in Fig. 1a comprises an inner surface, which is not visible in Fig. 1a, and an outer surface. The outer surface comprises a front outer surface 10, a rear outer surface 11 opposite the front outer surface

10 and a side outer surface 12 between the front outer surface 10 and the rear outer surface 11. Figures 1b, 1c and 1d show the same embodiment shown in Figure 1a but from a different perspective. In particular, Figure 1 b illustrates the rear outer surface

11 which surrounds the catheter entry opening 5 and Figures 1 c and 1 d illustrate the front outer surface 10 which surrounds the catheter exit opening 6. Figures 1c and 1d also show that the illustrated embodiment of the system 3 further in cludes a light guide 8 which includes a number of light emitting openings. The light emitting openings act as light sources 9 for emitting UVC light. In the illus trated embodiment, the light emitting elements all form part of the front outer sur- face 10, such that the UVC light is emitted from the light sources 9 directly to the skin 1 around the catheter 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the catheter exit open ing 6 has a diameter of 5 mm and the front outer surface 10 is elliptical with a height of 2 cm and a width of 1.5 cm. In other embodiments, the front outer sur face may be almost entirely capable of emitting UVC light. Figure 1e shows the embodiment from the same perspective as Figure 1a but does not show the catheter nor the skin 1. Instead, Figure 1d illustrates the side outer surface 12 and the cavity 14, which would normally be hidden behind the side outer surface 12 from this perspective. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity 14 defined by the inner surface of the adaptor has a tubular shape and extends from the catheter entry opening 5 to the catheter exit opening 6. Further, the inner cavity is arranged at an angle of 30° relative to the front outer surface 10.

Figure 1f shows a similar embodiment of the system 3 to the one shown in Fig. 1d. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1f, the light guide 8 comprises a number of discrete light emitting openings that act as light sources 9.

Figures 2a-2d show an embodiment of the system 3 disclosed herein which is similar to the embodiments shown in Fig. 1 a-1 f. The system 3 illustrated in Fig. 2a-2d also comprises an adaptor 4 having a front outer surface 10, a rear outer surface 11 and a side outer surface 12. Once again, the catheter 2 enters into the adaptor 4 through a catheter entry opening 5 and exits the adapter through a catheter exit opening 6. The catheter 2 is shown in a continuous fashion for illus tration purposes even though, from the perspective shown in Fig. 2a, the section of the catheter 2 around which the adaptor 4 is placed cannot normally be seen from this perspective.

The illustrated system 3 further comprises a diffuser 15, which is ring-shaped and surrounds the catheter exit opening 6, as shown in Fig. 2b. The diffuser 15 is comprised in a lens 16. The illustrated embodiment also comprises light sources 9. The light sources 9 are realized by light emitting ends of light guides 8, as illustrated in Fig. 2c and 2d. The lens 16 forms part of the outer surface of the adaptor 4, specifically of its front outer surface 10. The diffuser 15 is arranged between the light sources 9 and the skin (not shown), such that the UVC light emitted from the light source 9 passes through the diffuser 15. Figure 2e shows an embodiment of the system 3 disclosed herein which is similar to the embodiments shown in Fig. 1 a-1 f. The system 3 shown in figure 2e com prises five rectangular diffuser rods 15.

Figures 2f, 2g and 2h show an embodiment of the system 3 disclosed herein which is similar to the embodiments shown in Fig. 1 a-1 f. The illustrated embodi- ments include six emission chambers 27. As illustrated in the cross section view in figure 2f, the emission chambers 27 of the illustrated embodiment have a hy perbolic cross section. The emission chambers 27 may further comprise a scat tering layer and a filter. As illustrated in the front view illustrated in figure 2g, the emission chambers 27 are arranged symmetrically around the catheter exit open ing 6. Each emission chamber 27 comprises one light emitting opening of a light guide 8, such as an optical fiber. Figures 2f, 2g and 2h also illustrate that the system 3 may comprise none, one or more diffusers 15. As an example, as shown in figure 2g, the system 3 may comprise a diffuser 15.

Figures 3a-3b illustrate embodiments of the system 3 disclosed herein featuring a filter 17. The filter 17 is comprised in an emission chamber. Besides the filter 17, the emission chamber further comprises light sources 9 and a diffuser 15. The embodiment further comprises a lens 16. The emission chamber forms part of the outer surface of the adaptor 4, specifically of its front outer surface 10. The filter 17 and the diffuser 15 are arranged between the light sources 9 and the skin (not shown), such that the UVC light emitted from the light source 9 passes through the diffuser 15.

Figure 3c illustrates a similar embodiment of the system 3 as the one illustrated in Fig. 3a-3b, but further comprises an antimicrobial coating 18. The antimicrobial coating is realized by way of an antimicrobial patch, which is releasably attached to the front outer surface 10 of the adaptor 4.

Figures 4a-4c illustrate an embodiment of the system 3 disclosed herein com prising LEDs as light sources 9. The illustrated embodiment comprises three LEDs, each having a diameter of 35 mm. The LEDs are arranged uniformly around the catheter exit opening. The LEDs are comprised in an emission cham ber, which also includes a lens 16. The emission chamber forms part of the front outer surface 10 of the adaptor 4. The illustrated embodiment further comprises a power cable 29 for supplying the LEDs with electrical power. The power cable 29 is connected directly to the LEDs or to the PCB 28. The illustrated embodiment further comprises a lens 16. Further illustrated is the catheter entry opening 5. The embodiment further comprises a printed circuit board 28. Figures 5-14 relate primarily to embodiments of the system according to the fifth aspect of the invention. The adaptor of the system according to the fifth aspect is constructed for medical catheters and tubes that are inserted into the patient for different purposes such as intravenous delivery of drugs, chest drainage, dialysis and air ventilation among others. Within the adaptor, light guides such as optical fibers are placed that target directly the infection-prone sites. This refers to the skin around and within the insertion hole and the tube by shining in situ Far-UVC light (200 nm - 230 nm) for disinfection. Those optical fibers can deliver light by end-point-emitting or side-emitting designs.

The adaptor itself is placed around the catheter before, during or after the inser- tion process. A coupling mechanism closes the adaptor around the catheter. Eventually, it will be fixed and placed close to or directly at the human skin.

The UVC light source, such as a laser or excimer among others, is fixed at a bed or other infrastructure and emits light in specific intervals through light guides to the adaptor. The intensity level, the duration and the time interval of the application can vary with the different catherization processes and the state of the patient. Once it is coupled and the light guides in the adaptor are connected to the UVC source, the disinfection is performed automatically or manually. Moreover, multiple adaptors of different catheters or tubes can be applied simultaneously with the same UVC source.

This invention primarily concerns intravenous catheters including peripherally in- serted central catheters (PICC), but it can also be implemented for other medical devices such as chest drainage tubes, indwelling pleural catheters (IPCs), urinary tract catheter, long-term and short-term hemodialysis catheter, peritoneal dialy sis, external ventricular drainage (EVD) tube, endotracheal tubes, diabetes pro cedures and artificial stoma procedures, among others. The Far-UVC disinfection targets different types of bacteria present in the envi ronment such as Methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Esche richia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermis, Salmonella enter- itidis, Enterococcus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and fungal pneu monia among others. Fig. 5 is an embodiment of an adaptor 4, which is attached onto the patient’s skin 1 , through which a catheter 2 is inserted into the body. The optical fibers as light guides 8 deliver UVC into the adaptor, whereas the end-tips of the in-built optical fibers 8 illuminate the human skin uniformly around the insertion point. The op posite ends of the light guides are then connected to a UVC light source such as a laser or excimer. This UVC light source is capable of generating UVC of a de sired wavelength. The UVC light source can be switched on and off at regular intervals of time, depending on the disinfection therapy requirements. A micro controller for instance can be used to automate this process. Fig. 6 / Fig. 7 / Fig. 8 depict different concepts of arrangements of optical fibers 8 in the adaptor 4, which can be end-point-emitting, side-emitting and can be coiled (or a combination thereof) within the adaptor around the catheter 2.

Fig. 9 depicts one concept of a coupling mechanism for the adaptor 4. The phy- sician would then be able to decide when to close the adaptor (before, during or after the insertion of the catheter) with a locking mechanism 19.

Fig. 10 depicts a second version of an adaptor 4 attached to the outer surface of a catheter 2 near the insertion hole of the skin 1 , through which the catheter is inserted into the patient’s body. The adaptor has a flat-bottom surface that can be affixed to the patient’s body 1 via an adhesive material or a strap-on belt to stabilise the catheter. The adaptor 4 is fed with optical fibers 8, preferably solari- zation resistant optical fibers with increased durability against UVC radiation. Mul tiple optical fibers are grouped together into a fiber bundle, and are mechanically coupled to an UVC light source, such as a laser or an excimer, among others. Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the second version adaptor and the cath eter assembly, where multiple end-tips of optical fibers 8 are distributed evenly in this adaptor 4. The adaptor is composed of two symmetric units, which can be clipped together at the coupling points 20 and 21. This allows easy plug-and-play incorporation with any catheter or tube. The end-tips of the fibers disperse UVC radiation such that the area of the patient's skin around the insertion hole, along with the outer surface of the catheter 2, is illuminated. This way, the UVC radiation is able to disinfect all the critical regions near the insertion hole. Fig. 12 describes an add-on insertion unit 22 of the adaptor 4 that goes into the body, which is involved in the internal disinfection of the epidermis tissues sur rounding the catheter. This insertion unit 22 contains in-built optical fibers 8 that are side-emitting 23, whereby the UVC is dispersed radially. In this manner, the UVC radiation is able to illuminate the internal human tissues around the catheter, thereby restricting the further entry of pathogens into the patient’s body.

Fig. 13 illustrates an adaptor 4 for a chest drainage tube 24 connected to a drain age system 25, which is attached onto the patient’s skin. The optical fibers 8 deliver UVC into the adaptor, whereas the end-tips of these in-built optical fibers 8 illuminate the human skin uniformly around the insertion point. The opposite ends of the light guides are then connected to a UVC light source 9 such as a laser or excimer.

The words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation. It is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Fig. 14 illustrates an adaptor 4 for an external ventricular drainage tube 26, which is inserted into the skull of a patient.

LIST OF DESIGNATIONS

1 skin

2 catheter

3 system 4 adaptor

5 catheter entry opening

6 catheter exit opening 7 light guide entry opening S light guide 9 light source

10 front outer surface

11 rear outer surface

12 side outer surface

13 inner surface 14 inner cavity

15 diffuser

16 lens

17 filter

18 antimicrobial coating 19 locking mechanism

20 first coupling point 21 second coupling point 22 insertion unit 23 side emission 24 chest drainage tube 25 drainage system

26 external ventricular drainage tube

27 emission chamber

28 printed circuit board (PCB) 29 power cable