[H2O2 low temperature plasma sterilization. New possibilities for use with eye surgery instruments]

Area of Science:

• Sterilization technologies
• Medical device reprocessing
• Microbiology

Background:

• Traditional sterilization methods like steam and hot air are unsuitable for heat-sensitive medical instruments.
• Low-temperature sterilization methods are needed to preserve the integrity of delicate surgical tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and material compatibility of hydrogen peroxide-low-temperature-plasma-sterilization (STERRAD 100) for ophthalmic surgical instruments.
• To compare the surface effects of STERRAD 100 with traditional sterilization techniques.

Main Methods:

• Biological efficacy testing using Bacillus pumilus spores on contaminated ophthalmic surgical instruments.
• Corrosion testing on steel exposed to hydrogen peroxide.
• Scanning electron microscopy analysis of stainless steel surfaces after STERRAD 100, steam, and hot-air sterilization.

Main Results:

• STERRAD 100 achieved a minimum 6-log reduction of Bacillus pumilus spores, demonstrating high efficacy.
• No corrosion was observed on stainless steel after exposure to hydrogen peroxide.
• Electromicroscopy revealed comparable surface integrity for instruments sterilized with STERRAD 100 versus steam and hot air.

Conclusions:

• Hydrogen peroxide-low-temperature-plasma-sterilization (STERRAD 100) is an effective and safe sterilization method for a wide range of ophthalmic surgical instruments, including thermolabile materials.
• This technique offers a viable alternative to high-temperature sterilization, preserving instrument quality and preventing corrosion.