The Steps of a Sterilization Cycle: Protocol and Best Practices

The Steps of a Sterilization Cycle: Protocol and Best Practices

In dental surgery, especially in implantology, the sterilization of reusable medical devices is a crucial step in infection control. To ensure effective sterilization, it is essential to strictly follow each phase of the sterilization cycle, as defined by health authorities and European standards. Here is a structured and updated overview of the different steps.

1. Pre-disinfection (or immediate pre-treatment)

Immediately after the procedure, instruments must be immersed in a detergent/disinfectant solution compliant with standard EN 14885 to prevent the fixation of organic contaminants (blood, saliva, tissues).

Temperature < 40°C to avoid protein fixation.

Soaking time: according to the disinfectant manufacturer’s recommendations.

Wear chemical-resistant gloves.

Objective: reduce biocontamination before handling.

2. Cleaning

Two possible methods: manual (ultrasonic baths with enzymatic solution) or automated (washer-disinfector compliant with EN ISO 15883).

Ultrasonic cleaning: 15 to 20 minutes.

Thorough rinsing with demineralized water.

Careful drying to prevent corrosion.

A proper cleaning is an essential prerequisite for effective sterilization.

3. Inspection and Packaging

Each instrument must be inspected to ensure the absence of residual debris or damage.

Then comes packaging:

Heat-sealed sterile pouches or reels (standard EN 868-5).

Integrated chemical sterilization indicator.

Labeling with date, batch number, and operator identification.

Objective: ensure a sterile barrier until the instrument is used.

4. Sterilization

In dental practices, sterilization is generally performed using pressurized saturated steam (Class B autoclave), according to standard EN 13060.

Strict compliance with parameters (temperature, pressure, duration) is essential to achieve effective sterility.

5. Cycle Monitoring

Three types of monitoring are recommended:

Physical control: printout of the cycle with pressure, temperature, and time data.

Chemical indicators: color change on pouches or internal indicators.

Biological indicators: regular spore testing to validate overall effectiveness.

These controls enable the traceability and validation of each cycle.

6. Storage

Sterile devices must be stored:

In a clean, dry environment.

Away from light and temperature fluctuations.

Without unnecessary handling.

Sterility duration: according to the packaging manufacturer’s recommendations, provided they are not opened or damaged.

Conclusion

Strict adherence to each step of the sterilization cycle ensures safety for both the patient and the healthcare team. In implantology, where asepsis is an absolute requirement, this protocol becomes an essential prerequisite for any procedure.

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