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WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
These instructions are provided for the processing of heat-
resistant, immersible, critical medical devices, unless otherwise
noted on specific product inserts. Product specific inserts are
given priority over these instructions. This can include heat-
sensitive devices and certain power (air- or electric-driven) tool
designs that are provided with specific cleaning and sterilization
instructions. Consult the product specific instructions for
processing in these cases.
The instructions provided are given as guidance for medical
device processing and have been validated by the manufacturer.
It is the responsibility of the healthcare facility to ensure that
processing is performed using the required equipment, materials
and personnel at a defined processing area. This will include the
handling of devices during transportation, processing and storage
prior to surgical use.
Those using these instructions should be qualified personnel with
documented training and competency in accordance with local
procedures, guidelines, and standards.
Surgically used instruments can be considered biohazard and
facilities should ensure that transport and handling procedures
comply with local regulations and guidelines.
Sterile, single use implants must not be reused or reprocessed.
Sterile implants are labelled as single use and have not been
validated for reprocessing.
Non-sterile implants must be processed prior to use in accordance
with these processing instructions. They must be discarded
following patient use.
Reusable, non-sterile surgical instruments are required to be
cleaned, inspected and sterilized prior to surgical use.
Care should be taken in the handling and cleaning of
sharp devices.
All devices must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected prior
to sterilization. Long, narrow lumens, blind holes, moving
and intricate parts require particular attention during cleaning
and inspection. During cleaning, only use detergents that are
labelled for use on medical devices and in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. Cleaning agents with a used dilution
pH of within 7–9 are recommended. Highly alkaline conditions
(pH>10) can damage components/devices, in particular aluminum
materials. Do not use saline, environmental disinfection (including
chlorine solutions) or surgical antiseptics (such as iodine- or
chlorhexidine-containing products). Do not use a cleaning aid
that can damage the surface of instruments such as steel wool,
abrasive cleaners or wire brushes.
Instruments should be carefully inspected before each use to
ensure that they are functional. Scratches, dents or other damage
can result in instrument breakage or tissue injury.
Instruments must be cleaned separately from instrument trays
and cases. Instrument trays and cases are designed as an
organizational tool in preparation for sterilization, storage and
surgical use. Non-sterile implant sets may be processed in their
trays provided
Automated equipment, including washer-disinfectors and
steam sterilizers must be installed, maintained and operated in
accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not exceed 140
°
C (284
°
F) during reprocessing steps.
For patients with, or suspected with, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
(CJD), variant CJD or other transmissible spongiform encephalop-
athy (TSE) and related infections, it is recommended to treat the
patient using single-use instruments. Safely dispose of all devices
used in accordance with local procedures and guidelines.
LIMITATIONS ON PROCESSING
Repeated processing cycles in compliance with these instructions
for use have minimal effects on device life and function.
Instruments do not have an indefinite functional life. End of life
of devices is determined by wear and damage due to surgical
use and handling. Evidence of damage and wear on a device
may include but is not limited to corrosion (i.e. rust, pitting),
discoloration, excessive scratches, flaking, wear and cracks.
Improperly functioning devices, devices with unrecognizable
markings, missing or removed (buffed off) part numbers,
damaged and excessively worn devices should not be used.
Non-sterile implants must be discarded following patient use.
Any implant with evidence of damage, such as due to handling or
processing must be discarded.
Step 1: Point of Use Care
•Ensure that no instruments or parts are left in the surgical site
prior to closure as patient injury may result.
•All single use devices and materials should be removed and
discarded in compliance to local policies.
•The drying of gross soil (blood, tissue and/or debris) on
devices following surgical use should be avoided. It is preferred
that gross soil is removed from devices following use and in
preparation for transportation to a processing area. Gross
soil can be removed using sponges, cloths, or soft brushes.
Water and/or cleaning detergents (labelled for use on medical
devices) may be used.
•Do not use saline, environmental disinfection (including
chlorine solutions) or surgical antiseptics (such as iodine) or