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New technology for sterilization and disinfection.

¹Department of Clinical Microbiology, Huddinge University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.

The American Journal of Medicine

|September 16, 1991

Summary

Low temperature steam and formaldehyde sterilization offers reliable and reproducible results at 65°C. Automated cleaning and disinfection systems effectively reduce reliance on chemical germicides for medical equipment.

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Area of Science:

Medical sterilization technologies
Infection control practices
Healthcare-associated infection prevention

Background:

Low temperature steam and formaldehyde (LTSF) sterilization is common in Europe but less known in the US.
Automated cleaning and disinfection systems are also underutilized in the US.
Current US practices may rely heavily on chemical germicides and disposable items.

Purpose of the Study:

To introduce and describe the efficacy of LTSF sterilization.
To highlight the benefits of automated washer-disinfectors and flushing disinfectors.
To advocate for reduced reliance on chemical germicides and increased use of reusable, disinfectable equipment.

Main Methods:

Description of LTSF sterilization process parameters, including temperature and residue levels.
Explanation of automated cleaning and disinfection processes using washer-disinfectors and flushing disinfectors.
Discussion of validation requirements for new sterilization and disinfection processes.

Main Results:

LTSF sterilization is reliable and reproducible at ≥65°C, with formaldehyde residues below 5 µg/cm².
Formaldehyde air levels near the autoclave remain below exposure limits.
Automated systems provide excellent cleaning and reliable disinfection for various medical equipment.

Conclusions:

LTSF sterilization and automated cleaning/disinfection systems are effective and safe alternatives.
Widespread adoption in the US could significantly reduce chemical germicide use.
These technologies support a shift towards reusable, disinfectable medical supplies, potentially reducing costs and waste.

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