Sequential Washing with Electrolyzed Alkaline and Acidic Water Effectively Removes Pathogens from Metal Surfaces

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Biotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Reprocessing surgical instruments is critical to prevent iatrogenic infections.
• Biofilms and prion contamination pose significant risks, especially for instruments like endoscopes that tolerate limited harsh treatments.
• Current disinfection methods for prions on delicate instruments are often inadequate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a new washing system for disinfecting surgical instruments.
• To assess the efficacy of electrolyzed alkaline and acidic water in removing pathogenic organisms and prions.
• To provide a gentle and environmentally sound disinfection method for clinical devices.

Main Methods:

• A 0.15% NaCl solution was electrolyzed to produce alkaline (pH 11.9) and acidic (pH 2.7) water.
• Bio-contaminated stainless steel model systems were washed sequentially with alkaline water (with sonication) and then acidic water (without sonication).
• Effectiveness was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and prions.

Main Results:

• The washing system effectively removed or inactivated tested bacterial and fungal species.
• The process demonstrated significant efficacy in removing or inactivating prions from stainless steel surfaces.
• Electrolyzed water proved gentle on the model systems, indicating potential for delicate equipment.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrolyzed water washing system is effective for disinfecting a range of contaminants, including bacteria, fungi, and prions.
• This method offers a promising, environmentally friendly, and safe approach for reprocessing clinical devices like neuroendoscopes.
• The system's gentle nature makes it suitable for instruments sensitive to aggressive chemical or heat treatments.