[Ethylene oxide residues and aeration time after use of modern heated aerators (author's transl)].

The aeration time after ethylene oxide sterilization is rather long, particularly for PVC materials. It can be shortened enormously by heated aerators with continuous air exchange. We used different aeration methods and determined the ethylene oxide residues in endotracheal tubes, nasal and oro-pharyngeal airways, breathing tubes, parts of heart-lung-machines as well as gastroscope- and bronchoscope linings. The analyses were performed with a Hewlett-Packard gas chromatograph by the head space method. Intermittent vacuum with air irrigation was not as effective as continuous air exchange in heated aerators. The aeration time in these at 37 degrees C is longer than with 62 degrees C. After degassing in aerators with 62 degrees C the sterilized items can be used the next day already. Aerators blow the released ethylene oxide residues into the open air. The personnel is exposed to considerably smaller ethylene oxide concentrations because the long aeration time at room temperature in storage places is now eliminated.