We employ several sterilization techniques, including heat, cold, and chemical sterilization. All three of these methods are monitored regularly to ensure their efficacy. Wherever possible, disposable instruments and plastic barrier shields are used.

Heat sterilization is accomplished through the use of either pressurized steam or dry heat. A device known as an "autoclave" uses steam and high-pressure to achieve rapid sterilization. Dry heat sterilization is an alternate technique used for certain instruments that do not tolerate prolonged exposure to moisture. Here, a miniature oven is used to subject instruments to high temperatures until sterilization is achieved.

Chemical sterilization is used for instruments made of plastic or acrylic. These instruments can burn or melt if exposed to excessive heat. Chemical sterilization involves immersing instruments in a sterilization solution for several hours, until all bacteria and viruses are neutralized.

Regardless of what technique is used to achieve sterilization ordisinfection, you can be assured that we have done our utmost to ensure the safety of you and your family. Our comprehensive sterilization regimen is continually evolving and improving as new materials and methods become available.

How is the sterilization process monitored?

Sterilization procedures should be monitored through a combination of mechanical, chemical, and biological techniques designed to evaluate the sterilizing conditions and the procedure's effectiveness.

Mechanical techniques for monitoring sterilization include assessing the cycle time, temperature, and pressure of sterilization equipment by observing the gauges or displays on the sterilizer. Some tabletop sterilizers have recording devices that print out these parameters. Correct readings do not ensure sterilization, but incorrect readings could be the first indication that a problem has occurred with the sterilization cycle.

Chemical indicators, internal and external, use sensitive chemicals to assess physical conditions such as temperature during the sterilization process. Chemical indicators such as heat sensitive tape change color rapidly when a given parameter is reached. An internal chemical indicator should be placed in every sterilization package to ensure the sterilization agent has penetrated the packaging material and actually reached the instruments inside. An external indicator should be used when the internal indicator cannot be seen from outside the package. Single-parameter internal indicators provide information on only one sterilization parameter and are available for steam, dry heat, and unsaturated chemical vapor. Multiparameter internal indicators measure 2–3 parameters and can provide a more reliable indication that sterilization conditions have been met. Multiparameter internal indicators are only available for steam sterilizers (i.e., autoclaves). Refer to manufacturer instructions for proper use and placement of chemical indicators.

Indicator test results are shown immediately after the sterilization cycle is complete and could provide an early indication of a problem and where the problem occurred in the process. If the internal or external indicator suggests inadequate processing, the item that has been processed should not be used. Because chemical indicators do not prove sterilization has been achieved, a biological indicator (i.e., spore test) is required.

Biological indicators (BIs) are the most accepted means of monitoring the sterilization process because they directly determine whether the most resistant microorganisms (e.g., Geobacillus or Bacillus species) are present rather than merely determine whether the physical and chemical conditions necessary for sterilization are met. Because spores used in BIs are more resistant and present in greater numbers than are the common microbial contaminants found on patient care equipment, an inactivated BI indicates that other potential pathogens in the load have also been killed.