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Pubmed for Handhelds

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  • Title: [Comparison between steam and gas sterilized optics. Costs, availability, maintenance].
    Author: Conrad C, Pem M.
    Journal: Chirurg; 1998 Feb; 69(2):212-4. PubMed ID: 9551273.
    Abstract:
    METHODS: In a 300-bed acute-care hospital we compared optical instruments employed, for orthopedic, urological and gynecological operations during their use in practice. The comparison between 33 ethylene oxide(EO)-sterilized optical instruments and 14 steam-sterilized optical instruments took into account the following criteria: frequency of use; availability; sterilization cycles; kind, cost and number of repairs. RESULTS: The 33 EO-sterilized optical instruments were handled 1043 times and were repaired 10 times (at a cost of up to 2000 SFR). The 14 steam-sterilized optical instruments were treated 1101 times and were repaired 8 times (2000 SFR). The total costs were 77,000 SFR for the 14 steam-sterilized instruments and 132,000 SFR for the 33 EO-sterilized instruments. INTERPRETATION: Steam-sterilization is a reasonable, safe and fast method of sterilizing optical instruments. We prefer this method, given its advantages (less toxicity, personal care and pollution control).
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