#$%^&*AU2017204384A120180118.pdf#####ABSTRACT A method of sterilizing an article such as a flexible endoscope is performed in a sterilization chamber. A vacuum is applied in the sterilization chamber while the article is contained in the sterilization chamber. A sterilant is then introduced into the sterilization chamber. The pressure within the sterilization chamber is incrementally increased to provide a step-wise transition from a high vacuum state to atmospheric pressure. The article is thereby sterilized. 3256857vl1/6 150 158 182 156 16016 168 166 170 154 Fig. 1
