Applanation tonometer tip sterilization for adenovirus type 8

Eighty-nine ophthalmologists in the Dallas-Fort Worth area were surveyed to find the methods used to sterilize applanation tonometer tips. Sixteen different methods were in use, with the most popular being alcohol wipes (26%) and diluted sodium hypochlorite soak (23%). Six of the most frequently used sterilization techniques were evaluated for removal of type 8 adenovirus applied to sterile tonometer tips. Adenovirus was removed or inactivated from applanation tonometer tip surfaces by using one of the following techniques: soaking inoculated tips for 15 minutes in diluted sodium hypochlorite (1:10 household bleach), 3% hydrogen peroxide, or 70% isopropyl alcohol; or wiping with alcohol "prep pads", 1:1000 merthiolate, or dry tissues.