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Technical BulletinMicro-Scientific
Industries March
2004 Glutaraldehyde
High-Level Disinfection Solutions And Surfactants The use of glutaraldehyde solution for the
sterilization and high-level disinfection of flexible endoscopes is well
documented in the literature and is the most commonly practiced method
of reprocessing these delicate devices. Of concern is the use of those
glutaraldehyde solutions that contain surfactants within their
formulation. Surfactants are added to some glutaraldehyde
solutions in order to extend the use-life of the solution. Producers of
some solutions claim the addition of surfactants will extend their
use-life from 14 to 28 days by stabilizing the solution. The downside of adding surfactants to
solutions is that it can make the product unsuitable for use on some
flexible endoscopes and in some instances the surfactant containing
solutions has caused damage to some scopes. The general rule of thumb has been to use a
14-day product on scopes and a 28-day solution on other instruments and
devices. For this very reason, some manufacturers produce both a 14-day
and a 28-day solution. This leads to confusion in the industry. In some
instances users have used the wrong solution for the wrong purpose. This
is not to mention, the cost of having to inventory and order two
different products. Micro-Scientifics new generation product,
Micro-Cide-28 HLD Solution is a 28-day product absent of surfactants and
is FDA approved for use on endoscopes as well as all other
instrumentation. GI / Endoscopic facilities are now able to use
one product for all uses, including flexible endoscopes for up to 28
days before changing the solution. For additional information contact the Micro-Scientific Industries Scientific and Technical Affairs Group at 1-888-253-2536.
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