Good instruments can last for years if they are cleaned, sterilised and stored correctly. Many problems blamed on poor quality, such as stains or stiff joints, are caused by the wrong care. Here are the questions buyers ask most.
Why do new instruments sometimes stain?
Stains are often caused by blood or saline left on the instrument, hard water, or the wrong detergent. Clean instruments soon after use and use detergents made for surgical instruments.
What is passivation?
Passivation is a treatment that strengthens the protective layer on stainless steel and helps prevent rust. Good manufacturers passivate instruments before packing.
The basic care cycle
- Pre-clean at point of use. Wipe off blood and tissue straight away.
- Keep them moist. Do not let blood dry on the instrument.
- Clean. Manually or in a washer-disinfector, with joints open.
- Rinse. Ideally with demineralised water.
- Dry. Completely, before inspection.
- Inspect. Check tips, joints and cutting edges.
- Lubricate. Use instrument milk or a water-soluble lubricant on joints.
- Pack and sterilise. Usually by steam autoclave, following the instructions for use.
Things to avoid
- Saline soaking, which causes pitting and rust
- Bleach and other chlorine products
- Mixing stainless steel with chrome-plated or damaged instruments in one load
- Closing ratchets fully during sterilisation
How long should an instrument last?
With good care, quality reusable instruments can last for many years. Scissors and other cutting instruments need sharpening from time to time.
Instructions for use
Every reusable instrument sold in the EU must come with reprocessing instructions. Ask your supplier for them.
Ask Tata Surgical
Our team can explain the care of every instrument we make. Ask us at Hall 10, Stand C32.
Looking for instruments like these?
Browse our catalogue or send us your drawing. We reply with prices, lead time and shipping terms.
