Low-temperature sterilization using gas plasmas

A number of plasma-based techniques for sterilizing heat-sensitive medical equipment at low temperatures are being developed worldwide as alternatives to existing chemical and gaseous sterilization methods. The techniques involve the use of plasmas in controlled sterilization processes that increase operator safety and offer medical device manufacturers the option of using materials they cannot currently consider because of the incompatability of those materials with existing sterilization technologies. In this article, the author discusses three development programmes that are under way and assesses the potential applications of the technique as an alternative to ethylene oxide sterilization. The potential of the technique to meet in-house sterilization requirements of medical product manufacturers is also discussed.