Autoclave Pouches

Autoclave Pouches

After surgery one of the most dangerous risks patients face is infection. Properly sterilization of equipment before and after the procedure is therefore paramount to surgical success. By definition sterilization involves the complete eradication of all bacteria found in a given area. In medicine this sterile state is commonly achieved through the use of an autoclave. This wonder machine applies pressurized steam at 134 °C for 3 minutes in order to thoroughly destroy all microorganisms that previously resided on the device.
Though the machine does the actual sterilization an equally important facet of the process is the vessel in which the device is contained. This is because, ultimately, it does not matter how clean you can get the item if you can not keep it germ free between the autoclaving and the procedure. Therefore, typically this goal of maintaining sterility is accomplished through the use of an autoclave pouch.
An autoclave pouch is the container in which the device is both sterilized and stored in. With these two functions it is important that the unit meets certain criteria, as well as has certain features.
First, and foremost, the pouch should be FDA approved and meet the tear and strength requirements in the region in which it is used. The most regulated and strictest requirements mandate resistance of up to 480g of pressure in each direction.
After it is determined that these criteria are met, it is important to check the pouch for certain features that will aid in its functionality and effectiveness in sterilizing adequately. A good self-sealing mechanism with pre-folded lines is the first thing to look for. This component allows for the pouch to be easily accessed when needed, and easily stored when the procedure is completed. The second feature to look for is a pre-printed internal indicator. This component will change colors once the item within has been properly sterilized, alerting users that the process is complete. While, at one point pouches came with an indicator strip prepackaged inside of them, the internal indicator has become a replacement technology. The next, and one of the most important qualities, is a porous through which steam vapors can penetrate into the pouch. This is typically constructed out of a synthetic, fibrous material such non recycled polycarbonate. On the reverse side there should be a transparent window through which the device can be examined. This is usually constructed out of some type of polymer laminate.
To fully understand the functions of an autoclave pouch, it is important to first understand how the machine itself works. Essentially, the autoclave exposes an item to saturated steam for a period of time that kills all bacteria, viruses, fungi and spores previously found on the item. This is accomplished through a two-step process. First, a vacuum is created whereby all air is removed from the container. This is accomplished through either a pump or downward-displacement and allows for a more thorough sterilization. Second, steam is released into the chamber for a set period of time. Though the temperature of the steam and duration of exposure vary from item to item, two combinations are accepted as standard. One is 134 °C for 3 minutes.