B-Cycle And S-Cycle Autoclaves

(Midmark M9 UltroClave & Statim 5000)

Autoclave is an equipment used to sterilize objects and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure saturated steam at 121 Ai??C or more, typically for 15 to 20 minutes depending on the size of the load and the contents. Transmissible agents (such as spores, bacteria and viruses) can be eliminated through sterilization. This is different from disinfection, where only organisms that can cause disease are removed.

To be effective against spore forming bacteria and viruses, autoclaves need to:

• Have steam in direct contact with the material being sterilized.
• Create vacuum in order to displace all the air initially present in the autoclave and replacing it with steam.
• Implement a well designed control scheme for steam evacuation and cooling so that the load does not perish.

The sterilization occurs by three mechanisms: temperature, pressure, and thermal oxidation. High temperature will kill most micro-organisms because they cannot tolerate the temperature. Viruses, which may not be considered “organisms” are also broken down by the temperature and proteins can be denatured. Pressure during cycle will cause penetration of membrane walls of organisms, disrupting or breaking the walls, forcing the steam into them, and screwing up the osmotic pressure.

In our clinic, emphasis is placed to get the best infection control for the benefits of our patient.

Note: All autoclaves used in this clinic is complied with requirements set and certified by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) [Jabatan Keselamatan dan Kesihatan Pekerjaan]

Read more at http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Principle_of_autoclave