Protein cross‐contamination during batch cleaning and autoclaving of the ProSeal^™ laryngeal mask airway

Abstract

We tested the hypothesis that protein cross-contamination occurs during batch cleaning and autoclaving of a reusable extraglottic airway device, the ProSeal TM laryngeal mask airway. At the end of each day for 10 days, nine laryngeal mask airways that had been used for non-intra-oral surgery were cleaned and autoclaved alongside a new unused laryngeal mask airway. In addition, a new unused laryngeal mask airway underwent the same cleaning and autoclaving procedures in isolation. Protein staining was more frequently detected on the unused laryngeal mask airways that were processed by batch rather than in isolation (p < 0.01). Protein staining was detected on all unused laryngeal mask airways that were processed by batch, but none on those processed in isolation. Protein staining was more severe with the used compared with the unused laryngeal mask airways (p < 0.001). We conclude that protein cross-contamination of the laryngeal mask airway occurs during batch cleaning and autoclaving and recommend that reusable airway devices are cleaned in isolation.

The clinical effectiveness of the streamlined liner of pharyngeal airway (SLIPA™) compared with the laryngeal mask airway ProSeal™ during general anesthesia

“…Protein contamination of reused medical devices can cause the transmission of prion proteins, with PLMA reuse running the risk of aiding in the transmission of variant Creutzfelt-Jacob disease. Also, when many PLMAs are washed together, protein cross-contamination can occur [28]. For such reasons, using disposable devices which have no difference in effectiveness lowers the risk of contamination and is more hygienic.…”

A comparison of the Supreme™ laryngeal mask airway with the Proseal™ laryngeal mask airway in anesthetized paralyzed adult patients: a randomized crossover study

“…Studies have shown that routine cleaning and autoclaving do not remove protein material from reusable laryngeal mask airway devices (LMADs). [7][8][9][10] Compared with the PLMA, the SLMA's design has several refinements. First, it is a single-use latex-free device; each SLMA is prepared in a separate sterile package.…”

Are new supraglottic airway devices, tracheal tubes and airway viewing devices cost‐effective?

“…This advice is based on evidence that microscopic traces of tissue can remain on surgical instruments after washing, autoclaving, and disinfection and that routine methods for cleaning SADs do not completely remove protein deposits . Protein cross‐contamination occurs during batch cleaning and autoclaving and furthermore, sterilisation methods do not denature prions .…”