NEWS

Autoclavable PC Breather Bags now OK’d for New Sterilization As hospitals are looking at more ecologically friendly means to sterilize surgical equipment, a new method of sterilization has come onto the horizon. Low Temperature Hydrogen Peroxide Gas Plasma (LTHPGP) is quickly gaining acceptance as the new wave of the future. LTHPGP sterilization is a relatively new technology, offering a number of advantages, compared with established technologies. Advantages include a short sterilization cycle (1–4 hours), low temperature and humidity, no aeration requirement, no toxic chemical residues, negligible environmental impact, broad compatibility with materials, and in-house control of sterilization. Disadvantages include an inability to process liquids, powders, or strong hydrogen peroxide absorbers, like cellulosics. Packaging compatibility with LTHPGP sterilization is also critical. Packaging must be designed using LTHPGP-compatible materials, feature sufficient vapor permeability, and provide a bacterial barrier to maintain post processing sterility. This vapor-permeable element can be designed in the package such as Tyvek. Cellulose-based packaging and wraps, such as paper, are not recommended. Recently, Fisher Container Corp’s Precision Clean Autoclavable Breather Bag was successfully tested by the nation’s #1 Manufacturer of LTHPGP Systems. Please call for details on sizes and prices for Breather Bags.