hydrogen peroxide sterilization
Also written as: H2O2 — hydrogen peroxide sterilization
Low-temperature sterilization method using vaporized hydrogen peroxide plasma technology.
Full Definition
Hydrogen peroxide sterilization is a low-temperature sterilization process that uses vaporized hydrogen peroxide, often in plasma form, to sterilize heat-sensitive medical devices. The process involves injecting hydrogen peroxide into a chamber under vacuum, where it vaporizes and penetrates device surfaces. In plasma systems, radiofrequency energy creates reactive species that enhance microbicidal activity. The process breaks down into water vapor and oxygen, leaving no toxic residues and requiring no aeration time. This method is ideal for electronics, plastics, and other materials that cannot tolerate steam sterilization, though it has limitations with certain materials and long, narrow lumens.
Usage
Usage note: Specify 'plasma' when referring to specific plasma-based systems versus vapor-only processes.
In Context
- "The robotic surgical instruments underwent hydrogen peroxide sterilization to preserve electronic components." — Reprocessing procedure manual
- "Hydrogen peroxide sterilization offers rapid turnaround with no aeration requirements unlike EtO processing." — Equipment comparison analysis