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How to sterilize PIC transfers using steam with autoclave: step-by-step

How to use autoclave to sterilize PIC transfers with steam after an impresion.

 

There are three different methods to sterilize PIC transfers. This article describes one of them.

FULL ARTICLE: How to sterilize PIC transfers

Steam sterilization

The instructions for use of the disinfectant's manufacturer must be strictly followed. PIC transfer reprocessing has been validated for steam sterilization with the sterilization protocol described below using a Coltene SciCan Statim 6000B unit as a reference.

Materials needed: 

  • Autoclave SciCan STATIM 6000B LQGloves 
  • Sterilization pouches suitable for autoclaving

Step-by-step instructions

Before proceeding with any of the sterilization protocols, you must first clean the PIC transfers. Cleaning removes all solid residue and is mandatory to ensure that the sterilization reaches all the surfaces of a PIC transfer.

MORE INFORMATION: Cleaning before sterilizing

  1. Wear gloves and place the cleaned and rinsed PIC transfers into sterilization pouches suitable for autoclaving.

It is recommended to organize PIC transfers in sterilization pouches in small groups. For example, if you have 10 PIC transfers, separate them as follows:

  • 2 sterilization pouches with 2 units each
  • 2 sterilization pouches with 3 units each

This way, only the PIC transfers that will actually be used for any given number of implants need to be unpacked and the rest will stay sterilized.

2. Arrange the pouches in the autoclave chamber according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring proper spacing for effective steam circulation.

3. Choose the preset program for Universal Class B autoclave sterilization. Set the parameters as follows:

  • Temperature: 134°C (273,20°F) / 3.5 min
  • Pressure: 3.2 bar (320 kPas)
  • Drying time: 5 minutes

4. Start the autoclave cycle. For your reference, these are the recommended cycle times and phases:

  • Suction Time: 5 minutes
  • Admission Time: 5 minutes
  • Sterilization Time: 3 minutes 30 seconds

5. After the sterilization cycle is complete, the autoclave will proceed with the drying phase. Allow the PIC transfers to dry for 5 minutes to minimize moisture.

6. Once the drying phase ends, the sterilization process is complete. Carefully remove the sterilized pouches from the autoclave.

Only use the parameters described above for steam sterilization of PIC transfers. Different temperatures, pressures and times may not effectively sterilize the PIC transfers and may cause irreversible damage.

If your autoclave is not able to match these parameters, consider cold sterilization as a validated alternative for safely sterilizing your PIC transfers.

FULL ARTICLE: How to sterilize PIC transfers