In search of an optimum method for the sterilization of a cryoprobe in a sexually transmissible diseases clinic.

Contact Cryoprobe Sterilization Practices

“…7 Evans encourages the installation of autoclaves to sterilize cryoprobes used in clinics treating sexually transmitted infections (condyloma acuminata, warts in general, and molluscum contagiosum). 8 The autoclave kills HIV, HPV, and the hepatitis B virus at an operational temperature of 121° to 134° degrees in just 10 minutes. 8…”

“…8 The autoclave kills HIV, HPV, and the hepatitis B virus at an operational temperature of 121° to 134° degrees in just 10 minutes. 8…”

“…7 Evans encourages the installation of autoclaves to sterilize cryoprobes used in clinics treating sexually transmitted infections (condyloma acuminata, warts in general, and molluscum contagiosum). 8 The autoclave kills HIV, HPV, and the hepatitis B virus at an operational temperature of 121° to 134° degrees in just 10 minutes. 8 Other methods of decontamination include (1) glutaraldehyde soaks, which require 10 minutes of soaking time, a local exhaust system over soaking trays, and protective clothing for those working with this chemical and (2) exposure to ethylene oxide, which is associated with a much larger time commitment than the other 2 options (4 hours to sterilize and 12 hours aeration time to get the gas out of the system).…”

“…8 The autoclave kills HIV, HPV, and the hepatitis B virus at an operational temperature of 121° to 134° degrees in just 10 minutes. 8 Other methods of decontamination include (1) glutaraldehyde soaks, which require 10 minutes of soaking time, a local exhaust system over soaking trays, and protective clothing for those working with this chemical and (2) exposure to ethylene oxide, which is associated with a much larger time commitment than the other 2 options (4 hours to sterilize and 12 hours aeration time to get the gas out of the system). 8 Fraise and Bradley suggest that if probes are heat labile, ethylene oxide or another low-temperature method of sterilization, such as gas plasma, should be used.…”