The process of destroying and getting rid of live microbes is known as sterilisation. The medical equipment is then fit for use after being cleaned of dangerous microorganisms. A variety of sterilisation techniques are used to clean medical equipment, including steam, dry heat, radiation, ethylene oxide gas, evaporated hydrogen peroxide, and other sterilisation techniques like chlorine dioxide gas, vaporised peracetic acid, and nitrogen dioxide.
Surgical and medical equipment used in healthcare facilities are mainly made of heat-resistant materials and are sterilised using heat, primarily steam. But lately a number of medical tools and devices are being made of plastic that need to be sterilised at low temperatures. For long, Ethylene oxide gas has been in use for such sterilization and is sensitive to heat and moisture. Several fresh, low-temperature sterilisation techniques have been created in the last two decades and are currently being utilised to sanitise medical equipment, including ozone, peracetic acid immersion, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma etc.
Ethylene oxide (EO), the most commonly used means of sterilising medical devices is used to sterilise almost 50% of all sterile medical devices now available in the market. The advantages of EO optimization include the safe and sustainable use of EO, a decrease in EO residues in the product, a reduction in the amount of time needed for aeration hence increased effectiveness of the customer's supply chain and also increased manufacturer's capacity; and further control of unorganised emissions, enhancing health and safety.
Manufacturers are required to thoroughly evaluate the effects of any modifications on the validated process by testing or co-optation as well as written justification. When there is a change in the sterilisation process, the impact on sterilisation validation is the first thing that comes to mind, but other areas, such as aseptic barrier packaging, may also be impacted.
The three types of EO optimization measures are cycle adjustments, cycle monitoring changes, and product and packaging changes.
The first hydrogen peroxide gas plasma system for sterilising medical and surgical devices was put to the test in the late 1980s. The cycle's by-products, such as water vapour and oxygen, are harmless and need for aeration is eliminated. The sterilised items can therefore be handled safely, whether for storage or for use right away. The method has short cycle time and runs in the 37-44°C temperature range. Through the usage of hydrogen peroxide gas and the production of free radicals (hydroxyl and hydroperoxyl free radicals) during the plasma phase of the cycle, this method predominantly inactivates bacteria.
Hydrogen peroxide gas plasma can be used to sterilise objects and materials that cannot withstand high temperatures and humidity, including some polymers, electrical equipment, and metal alloys that are prone to corrosion. Most medical equipment and materials evaluated by this technology (more than 95%) have been compatible with it.
Gamma radiation sterilisation, the most widely used type of radiation sterilisation, is a technique employed in a wide range of sectors. In the medical sector, some tools and products like implantable medical devices, surgical gowns, etc. are frequently sterilized using the gamma process.
Gamma sterilisation is safe and efficient when done correctly. Compared to other sterilisation techniques, gamma radiation provides a number of benefits. It provides superior (deeper) penetration, a greater degree of sterility assurance, and effectiveness regardless of temperature and pressure. This sterilisation technique is relatively easier. Contrary to popular belief, the products and materials treated after the process are not radioactive. Furthermore, this procedure has no detrimental effects on the environment.
E-beam sterilization process technology is a safe, effective & efficient and a wide range of disposable medical gadgets are sterilised using this technology. Sterilization of medical equipment and single-use supplies, including syringes, catheters, IV administration kits, and wound dressings is effectively sterilized using this method. E-beam sterilization has accelerated turnaround times that lower inventory costs. Another advantage of this is the flexibility to process any dose range and product quantity back-to-back without taking a long time to modify the equipment. Quick-turn terminal sterilisation is offered by E-beam using an easy, hygienic on/off technology. There are no safety, shipping, or disposal issues because no radioactive sources are required.
E-beam sterilisation can be a successful sterilisation method for firms whose objective is to produce sterile products with low density or products packaged in small, homogenous containers.
X-ray sterilization is a safe & clean process where a harmful residue is not left in the item. The slight temperature increases do not harm plastic materials at ordinary exposure levels. The processing times and costs of contemporary, high-power X-ray generators are on par with those of alternative sterilising techniques. A large range of polymers are compatible with X-ray, yet there are some restrictions because of oxidation effects. When sterilising products with high densities, in huge quantities, and in their final packaging, X-rays can be an efficient method.
NO2 sterilization has compatibility with numerous medical equipment materials. Ultra-low temperature, low pressure needs, no cytotoxic residues, and quick cycle times are all advantages of NO2-based sterilisation.
As a trusted medical equipment supplier, we recognise the importance of providing sterile medical devices to your clients and end users. Because medical devices are complicated, the design, material, product packing, and final packaging must all be taken into account when selecting a sterilising method. You might need to use ethylene oxide (EO or ETO), gamma, electron beam (E-Beam), x-ray, or nitrogen dioxide (NO2) technologies to fulfill your sterilising goals. It is advisable to work with sterilisation experts to ensure your specific product goal is realised because there are numerous factors to take into account when sterilisation is the desired outcome.
Oxymed is an established name in the medical equipment suppliers in Dubai UAE & Middle East, specializing in providing high-quality health care supplies and equipment. We offer medical equipment and supplies at competitive prices to healthcare professionals across Dubai-UAE & Middle East. Our name is sought after in the list of medical equipment companies in UAE. You can contact us if you are seeking for a source of reasonably priced tools and equipment for your facility.
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