Proper hygiene and processing of medical devices is paramount to the safe handling and longevity of surgical instruments. The following guidelines are meant as an aid to reduce the risk of infection or contamination while handling medical devices however you should consult your federal, state or territory regulatory authority, or professional association, for further advice.

• Pre-Disinfection, by soaking the instruments in the appropriate solutions
• Rinsing, to neutralise the instruments from any solution residue
• Ultrasonic cleaning, using a neutral chemical solution suitable for the specific instruments
• Rinsing, to neutralise the instruments from any solution residue
• Drying, and checking the instruments prior to packaging. Instruments with joints and hinges should be regularly lubricated with a high quality synthetic instrument lubricant
• Sterilisation, steam sterilisation at 134°C
• Storage

Instructions for Use

Please read carefully the following instructions before handling and using our instruments.

Initial Use

Instruments are supplied “non-sterile” and must be washed, rinsed and sterilised prior to use. Cleaning is best achieved via an ultrasonic cleaner or, if not available, instruments may be rinsed and scrubbed manually using a rigid brush with plastic bristles (NO metal bristles) using a suitable cleaning, disinfecting or decontamination solution. After rinsing and packaging instruments should be sterilised following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Maintenance

• All the cleaning operations should be carried out in areas suitably equipped and specifically assigned to this purpose.
• Instruments must be cleaned and disinfected immediately after use using a suitable cleaning, disinfecting or decontamination solution or device. When using solutions ensure you are familiar with the correct dilution ratio, washing or soaking duration and optimal temperature of the cleaning, disinfecting or decontamination solution and that you follow the instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer and producer of the cleaning, disinfecting or decontamination solution.
• Cleaning, disinfecting or decontamination solutions containing sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) may cause oxidation or corrosion of the instruments, compromising their performance and longevity.
• Cleaning, disinfecting or decontamination solutions must be changed daily.
• The recommended method for the proper cleaning of instruments is via ultrasonic cleaning, especially for instruments with joints and hinges such as forceps, needle holders, pliers and scissors.
• When washing and sterilising do not place together instruments made of different metals such as common steel with stainless steel, aluminium, titanium and chromed steel.
• When washing and sterilising instruments with joints and hinges ensure they are in the open position and devices made up of multiple parts should be disassembled.
• Ensure trays are not overloaded with instruments as this could compromise the washing and sterilising process.
• The ideal temperature for the final rinsing is between 80°C and 90°C, check and ensure post rinsing that all possible residuals have been completely removed.
• The use of demineralised water during the final rinsing stage is recommended to prevent the formation of dark stains.
• To maintain the efficiency of instruments with joints and hinges it is necessary to lubricate them regularly with a high quality synthetic instrument lubricant, you should never use industrial oils.

Autoclave Sterilisation

Steam sterilisation involves the use of steam under pressure, delivered at a particular temperature for an appropriate time. Steam sterilisation should not exceed the duration of 7 minutes at a temperature of 134°C and pressure of 2.1 bar. Ensure that instruments sterilised in packaging such as pouches or wraps are dry at the completion of the sterilisation cycle, any moisture remaining inside the packaging material may cause corrosion or oxidation of the instruments. Sterilised instruments must be stored in a dedicated, dry and dust free environment.

Dry Heat Sterilisation

Use only CE approved dry heat sterilisers. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions for use. Sterilisation exceeding 177°C (350°F) weakens the temper of the steel in the instrument and as a consequence reduces its cutting performance leading to cutting instruments losing some of their sharpness. Darkening of the instruments may also occur and brown spots may appear similar to oxidation.

Cold Sterilisation

Pay particular attention to the cold sterilising solution selected as some may lead to corrosion. Ensure any solutions used have a neutral pH and that you are familiar with the manufacturers recommended use.