Control biológico de esterilización en odontología / Biological sterilization control in dentistry

La esterilización del instrumental y su correcta cadena de mantenimiento es una de las medidas que se menciona dentro de las precauciones universales para evitar la infeccion cruzada. Por lo tanto, resulta indispnesable realizar controles estrictos de los procesos de esterilización en el consultorio odontológico a fin de garantizar la esterilidad en el instrumental y materiales sometidos a ella. Dichos controles deberán asegurar la ausencia de microorganismos viables. El objetivo de esta información científica es actualizar, concientizar, adecuar y proponer una rutina básica de control biológico de ciclo de esterilización, integrando acciones de bioseguridad

Effects of handling and storage on sterile dental instruments

The microbial contamination post-sterilization of dental instruments has been the object of permanent study. The aim of the present study was to evaluate factors affecting long-term sterility of dental instruments sterilized in the dry-oven or autoclave at the Central Sterilizing Service of the School of Dentistry, University of Buenos Aires stored under room temperature and humidity conditions. Half of the 192 samples were placed in standard closed metal containers and sterilized in a dry-oven (D.O), and the remaining half were placed in perforated metal containers and sterilized in an autoclave (A). All the samples were placed in sterilizing paper bags for medical use. Post sterilization, each group (DO and A) was divided into: Group I: minimal handling (control); Group II: wrapping torn mechanically (1 cm); Group III: wrapping torn manually (1 cm). All the samples were stored a closed cabinet. Contamination was evaluated at 30 and 180 days, by seeding under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Temperature was monitored throughout the experiment, and ranged between 20 degrees C and 31 degrees C (x: 24 degrees C +/- 3.9). Humidity was measured with a digital hygrometer, and ranged between 40

+/- 10). Group I evidenced no microbial contamination, unlike Groups II and III. Our results evidence that 1) dry oven or autoclave sterilized material that is handled properly during storage remains sterile regardless of variations in temperature and humidity; 2) improper handling affects sterility, and contamination is time-dependent.