The use of ethylene oxide and low temperature steam/formaldehyde in hospitals.

Reprocessing of heat-labile medical equipment is a major problem in hospital practice. Requirements are either for sterilization, e.g. cardiac catheters, or disinfection, e.g. respiratory equipment. Methods of low temperature sterilization include ethylene oxide, low-temperature steam and formaldehyde (LTS/F) and immersion in 2% glutaraldehyde. Ethylene oxide is reliable, but potentially toxic. LTS/F machines operate at a high temperature, but treated equipment needs less aeration. The advantages of these processes and possible alternatives are discussed.