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Sterilization of the handengine. Is it a necessity?
1Department of Dermatologic Surgery, UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, California.
The Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Dermabrasion handpieces can transmit material, but simulations showed no contamination. Sterilizing the chuck and motor/handpiece is recommended to prevent rare cross-contamination risks.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infection Control
- Medical Device Maintenance
Background:
- The risk of patient-to-patient infection via dermabrasion handpieces is unknown.
- No established standards exist for dermabrasion handpiece maintenance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess material transfer through dermabrasion handpieces.
- To evaluate current dermatologist practices for disinfecting and sterilizing this equipment.
Main Methods:
- Observed fluorescence in handpieces immersed in dyed alcohol.
- Inspected instruments after simulated dermabrasion on animal tissue.
- Surveyed American Society for Dermatologic Surgery members on their procedures.
Main Results:
- Material transfer between the chuck and motor/handpiece is possible.
- Dermabrasion simulations did not result in instrument contamination.
- Only 58.7% of surveyed dermatologists sterilize the chuck; 38.1% sterilize the motor/handpiece.
Conclusions:
- Absolute sterilization of the entire handpiece is not strictly required.
- Steam autoclaving the chuck and gas sterilizing the motor/handpiece is prudent to mitigate rare cross-contamination risks.