4 2
S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P AT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | M AY 2 0 1 4
S
team sterilization is the most com-
monly used method of reprocess-
ing surgical instruments, but some
devices can't stand up to the heat
or pressure of the autoclave.
Electronic components require delicate handling,
R E P R O C E S S I N G
The Highlights of
Low-Temperature Sterilization
These reprocessing
alternatives keep sensitive
instruments out of
the autoclave.
Susan Klacik, BS, CRCST, ACE, FCS, CHL
Youngstown, Ohio
THE LOW DOWN Low-temperature steriliz-
ers use gaseous or chemical elements instead
of high-temperature steam to kill antibacterial
contaminants.
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