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Which Materials And Medical Devices Are Best For Ethylene Oxide (EtO) Sterilization?

Publish Time:2024-01-26

Ethylene Oxide (EtO) sterilization is utilized for gas-compatible devices of all types and configurations, both for terminal sterilization and sterilization of reusable medical devices. EtO has been acclaimed as one of the most effective and ideal sterilization methods. However, the question remains: which materials and devices are best suited to this process? We provide answers, along with an exploration of how and why EtO has become the most widely used medical device sterilization method.

EtO as the Ideal Sterilization Method

Many delicate devices suffer damage when subjected to sterilization via moist heat or radiation. Early studies quickly revealed that heat- and moisture-sensitive devices could not withstand such methods successfully or achieve reliable sterility assurance, leading to the emergence of EtO as the valued solution used by many sterilization professionals today. Additionally, EtO is the only sterilization method that can reliably penetrate interior chambers or surfaces in contact with each other.

More than 50% of all medical devices, totaling over 20 billion annually, are sterilized with EtO, according to the Advanced Medical Technology Association. Furthermore, most surgeries utilize at least one device that has been sterilized using EtO.

Which Materials or Devices are Best for EtO?

Medical device manufacturers use a variety of materials in their devices, ranging from plastics to non-woven materials to metal. However, other methods of sterilization can potentially melt non-woven materials and plastics. EtO becomes a preferred choice when such materials are present. Common medical devices suitable for EtO sterilization due to sensitive materials or interior chambers include:

  • Fiberoptic endoscopes
  • Surgical kits
  • Catheters
  • IV sets
  • Plastic tubing
  • Surgical telescopes
  • Heart valves
  • Electrical equipment
  • Surgical staplers or drills
  • Respirators
  • Pacemakers

What Else Makes EtO the Ideal Sterilization Choice?

Many EtO sterilization runs are small batch, resulting in a faster turnaround – a quality often sought after and valued by medical device manufacturers. For those concerned about EtO environmental gas issues, small batch EtO sterilization uses a single gas canister, requiring less gas for processing, thus releasing a very small percentage into the atmosphere.