Clinical performance of fixed-pressure Sphera Duo® hydrocephalus shunt.

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral hydrodynamics complications in shunted patients are due to the malfunction of the system. The objective of this retrospective, single-center, single-arm cohort study is to confirm the safety and performance of Sphera® Duo when used in adult patients suffering from hydrocephalus, pseudotumor cerebri or arachnoid cysts. METHODS: Data were generated by reviewing 112 adult patient's charts, who were submitted to a ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery and followed for one year after surgery. RESULTS: The results show us that 76% of patients had their neurological symptoms improved and that the reoperation rate was 15% in the first year following surgery. DISCUSSION: Sphera Duo® shunt system is an applicable shunt option in routine neurosurgical management of hydrocephalus by several causes. It has presented good results while mitigating effects of overdrainage. Overdrainage is especially important in adults with non-hypertensive hydrocephalus and can cause functional shunt failure, which causes subnormal ICP (particularly in the upright position) and is associated with characteristic neurological symptoms, such as postural headache and nausea. CONCLUSION: Sphera Duo® shunt system is safe when used in adult patients suffering from hydrocephalus, pseudotumor cerebri or arachnoid cyst.

Clinical performance of fixed-pressure Sphera Duo® hydrocephalus shunt / Performance clínica da válvula de pressão fixa Sphera Duo®

Abstract Introduction: Cerebral hydrodynamics complications in shunted patients are due to the malfunction of the system. The objective of this retrospective, single-center, single-arm cohort study is to confirm the safety and performance of Sphera® Duo when used in adult patients suffering from hydrocephalus, pseudotumor cerebri or arachnoid cysts. Methods: Data were generated by reviewing 112 adult patient's charts, who were submitted to a ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery and followed for one year after surgery. Results: The results show us that 76% of patients had their neurological symptoms improved and that the reoperation rate was 15% in the first year following surgery. Discussion: Sphera Duo® shunt system is an applicable shunt option in routine neurosurgical management of hydrocephalus by several causes. It has presented good results while mitigating effects of overdrainage. Overdrainage is especially important in adults with non-hypertensive hydrocephalus and can cause functional shunt failure, which causes subnormal ICP (particularly in the upright position) and is associated with characteristic neurological symptoms, such as postural headache and nausea. Conclusion: Sphera Duo® shunt system is safe when used in adult patients suffering from hydrocephalus, pseudotumor cerebri or arachnoid cyst.

Resumo Introdução: As complicações da hidrodinâmica cerebral em pacientes com derivação ventriculoperitoneal são frequentemente relacionadas ao malfuncionamento do sistema. O objetivo deste estudo retrospectivo de coorte de centro único é avaliar a segurança e performance clínica do Sistema Sphera® Duo quando utilizado em adultos com hidrocefalia, pseudotumor cerebral ou cistos aracnoides. Métodos: Avaliamos os prontuários de 112 pacientes adultos submetidos a cirurgia de derivação ventriculoperitoneal e acompanhados por 1 ano após a cirurgia. Resultados: O resultado mostra que 76% dos pacientes melhoraram dos sintomas neurológicos e a taxa de reoperação foi de 15% no primeiro ano após a cirurgia. Discussão: O sistema de derivação Sphera Duo® é uma opção de shunt adequada a ser usada no tratamento neurocirúrgico da hidrocefalia por causas diversas. Ele demonstrou bons resultados clínicos enquanto reduziu riscos de hiperdrenagem. A hiperdrenagem é especialmente preocupante e mórbida em pacientes adultos com hidrocefalia não hipertensiva e pode levar a prejuízo clínico e disfunção da válvula, com sintomas de hipotensão craniana, como cefaléia ortostática e náuseas. Conclusão: O sistema de derivação Sphera Duo® é seguro para tratamento da hidrocefalia, pseudotumor cerebri ou cistos aracnóides em adultos.

Manual and Automated Cleaning Are Equally Effective for the Removal of Organic Contaminants From Laparoscopic Instruments.

OBJECTIVE To compare the effectiveness of manual and automated methods for cleaning laparoscopic instruments. DESIGN Experimental laboratory study. METHODS We evaluated 4 methods of cleaning laparoscopic instruments: (1) manual-only cleaning and rinsing with potable tap water; (2) manual cleaning and rinsing with potable tap water, followed by ultrasonic cleaning without rinsing; (3) manual cleaning and rinsing with potable tap water followed by ultrasonic cleaning and rinsing with potable tap water; and (4) manual cleaning and rinsing with potable tap water, followed by ultrasonic cleaning and rinsing: first with potable tap water and then with sterile distilled water. Organic residues of protein, hemoglobin, and carbohydrates were evaluated using spectrophotometry. RESULTS The various cleaning methods tested did not result in statistically significant differences (P>.05) in the levels of investigated organic residues. CONCLUSIONS All cleaning and rinsing methods tested were found to be effective in reducing the levels of organic residues on laparoscopic instruments. Thus, there is no advantage gained by supplementing manual-only cleaning with automated ultrasonic cleaning, nor was there a difference between rinsing with potable tap versus sterile distilled water. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:58-63.

The practice of disinfection of high-speed handpieces with 70% w/v alcohol: An evaluation.

A high-speed handpiece is used in several dental procedures and the official recommendation for safe decontamination consists of rinsing with water, washing with detergent, mechanical friction, and sterilization; however, many professionals only apply 70% w/v alcohol without also cleaning the tool between patients. We performed an analysis of high-speed handpieces reprocessed only with 70% w/v alcohol and found that the methods used in clinical practice are not safe.

Microbiological evaluation of the steam sterilization of assembled laparoscopic instruments.

Objective: assess the safety of steam sterilization of assembled laparoscopic instruments with challenge contamination. Method: a laboratory experimental study, using as test samples trocars and laparoscopic graspers. Geobacillus stearothermophillus ATCC-7953 was used, with a microbial population of 106UFC/Filter paper substrate, removed from the biological indicator. Three of them were introduced into each instrument at the time of assembly, and sterilized at pressurized saturated steam, 134oC for 5 minutes. After sterilization, the instrument was disassembled and each filter paper substrate was inoculated in soybean casein culture and incubated at 56oC for 21 days. In case of absence of growth, they were subjected to heat shock of 80oC, for 20 minutes and re-incubated for 72 hours. Sample size: 185 graspers and 185 trocars, with 95% power. We paired the experiments with comparative negative control groups (5 graspers and 5 trocars with challenge contamination, sterilized disassembled) and positive control (30 filter paper supports, unsterilized), subject to the same incubation procedures. Results: there was no microbial growth in experimental and negative control. The results of the positive control were satisfactory. Conclusion: this study provided strong scientific evidence to support the safety of steam sterilizing of the assembled laparoscopic instrument.

Microbiological evaluation of the steam sterilization of assembled laparoscopic instruments / Avaliação microbiológica da esterilização a vapor do instrumental laparoscópico montado / Evaluación microbiológica de la esterilización a vapor de instrumental laparoscópico montado

ABSTRACT Objective: assess the safety of steam sterilization of assembled laparoscopic instruments with challenge contamination. Method: a laboratory experimental study, using as test samples trocars and laparoscopic graspers. Geobacillus stearothermophillus ATCC-7953 was used, with a microbial population of 106UFC/Filter paper substrate, removed from the biological indicator. Three of them were introduced into each instrument at the time of assembly, and sterilized at pressurized saturated steam, 134oC for 5 minutes. After sterilization, the instrument was disassembled and each filter paper substrate was inoculated in soybean casein culture and incubated at 56oC for 21 days. In case of absence of growth, they were subjected to heat shock of 80oC, for 20 minutes and re-incubated for 72 hours. Sample size: 185 graspers and 185 trocars, with 95% power. We paired the experiments with comparative negative control groups (5 graspers and 5 trocars with challenge contamination, sterilized disassembled) and positive control (30 filter paper supports, unsterilized), subject to the same incubation procedures. Results: there was no microbial growth in experimental and negative control. The results of the positive control were satisfactory. Conclusion: this study provided strong scientific evidence to support the safety of steam sterilizing of the assembled laparoscopic instrument.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a segurança da esterilização a vapor, do instrumental laparoscópico montado com desafio da contaminação. Método: estudo experimental laboratorial, cujo corpo de prova foram trocarte e pinça laparoscópica. Utilizou-se esporos Geobacillus stearothermophillus ATCC-7953, com população microbiana de 106UFC/suporte de papel filtro, removidos do indicador biológico. Três deles foram introduzidos no interior de cada instrumento, no momento da montagem, sendo esterilizados a vapor saturado sob pressão, 134oC por 5 minutos. Depois da esterilização, o instrumental foi desmontado, e cada suporte de papel filtro foi inoculado em meio de cultura de caseína soja, incubado a 56oC por 21 dias. Não havendo crescimento, foram submetidos a um choque térmico de 80oC, por 20 minutos e reincubados por 72 horas. Tamanho da amostra, 185 pinças e 185 trocartes, com poder de 95%. Os experimentos foram acompanhados dos grupos controle negativo comparativo (5 pinças e 5 trocartes com contaminação desafio, esterilizados desmontados) e positivo (30 suportes de papel filtro, não esterilizados), submetidos aos mesmos procedimentos de incubação. Resultados: não houve nenhum crescimento microbiano nos grupos experimental e controle negativo. Os resultados do controle positivo foram satisfatórios. Conclusão: este estudo forneceu fortes evidências científicas para sustentar a segurança da prática de esterilização a vapor do instrumental laparoscópico montado.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la seguridad de la esterilización a través de vapor, de instrumental laparoscópico previamente montado con desafío de contaminación. Método: estudio experimental en laboratorio, cuyo cuerpo de prueba fueron trócarte y pinza laparoscópica. Se utilizó esporas Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC-7953, con población microbiana de 106UFC/soporte de papel filtro, removidos del indicador biológico. Tres de ellos fueron introducidos en el interior de cada instrumento, en el momento del montaje, los que fueron esterilizados a vapor saturado bajo presión, 134oC por 5 minutos. Después de la esterilización, el instrumental fue desmontado y cada soporte de papel filtro fue inoculado en medio de una cultura de caseína y soya, incubado a 56oC por 21 días. No habiendo crecimiento, fueron sometidos a un choque térmico de 80oC, por 20 minutos y nuevamente incubados por 72 horas. La muestra estuvo constituida por 185 pinzas y 185 trócartes, con poder de 95%. Los experimentos fueron acompañados en los grupos: control negativo comparativo (5 pinzas y 5 trócartes con contaminación desafío, esterilizados desmontados) y positivo (30 soportes de papel filtro, no esterilizados), sometidos a los mismos procedimientos de incubación. Resultados: no se encontró crecimiento microbiano en los grupos experimental y control negativo. Los resultados del control positivo fueron satisfactorios. Conclusión: este estudio suministra fuertes evidencias científicas para sustentar que la práctica, de esterilización a vapor del instrumental laparoscópico montado, es segura.

Comparison of hand hygiene antimicrobial efficacy: Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil versus triclosan / Comparação da eficácia antimicrobiana na higienização das mãos: óleo essencial de Melaleuca alternifolia versus / Comparación de la eficacia antimicrobiana en la higienización de las manos: aceite esencial de Melaleuca alternifolia versus triclosan

OBJECTIVE: this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of hand hygiene performed with two different soap formulations: 0.3% Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil versus 0.5% triclosan, and to compare them with two reference hygiene procedures: the official methodology procedure (soft soap) versus the draft version of the procedure (soft soap + propan-2-ol). METHOD: using the European EN 1499 method, logarithmic reduction factors were determined for the number of colony forming units of Escherichia coli K12 before and after hand hygiene of 15 volunteer subjects, and compared using the one-tailed Wilcoxon test. RESULTS: referring to the soft soap, there was no difference between the performance of soap with 0.3% M. alternifolia and soap containing 0.5% triclosan. The soft soap + propan-2-ol proved to be more effective than the other hand hygiene procedures. CONCLUSION: studies to verify the therapeutic efficacy of essential oil in hand hygiene can improve adherence to this practice. .

OBJETIVOS: os objetivos deste estudo foram avaliar a eficácia da higienização das mãos, realizada com duas formulações diferentes de sabonetes: óleo essencial de Melaleuca alternifolia a 0,3% versus triclosan a 0,5%, e compará-las com duas higienizações de referência: procedimento da metodologia oficial (soft soap) versus procedimento da versão draft (soft soap+propan-2-ol). MÉTODO: utilizando-se a metodologia europeia EN 1499, foram determinados fatores de redução logarítmica do número de unidades formadoras de colônia de Escherichia coli K12, antes e após a higiene das mãos, de 15 sujeitos voluntários e comparados pelo teste de Wilcoxon unicaudal. RESULTADOS: tomando como referência o soft soap, não houve diferença entre o desempenho do sabonete com M. alternifolia a 0,3% ou sabonete contendo triclosan a 0,5%. O soft soap+propan-2-ol demonstrou ser mais eficaz em relação aos demais procedimentos de higienização das mãos. CONCLUSÃO: estudos que verifiquem a eficácia terapêutica de óleo essencial na higienização das mãos podem melhorar a adesão a essa prática. .

OBJETIVOS: este estudio objetivó evaluar la eficacia de la higienización de las manos realizada con dos fórmulas diferentes de jabones: aceite esencial de Melaleuca alternifolia al 0,3% versus triclosan al 0,5%, y compararlas con dos higienizaciones de referencia: procedimiento de la metodología oficial (soft soap) versus procedimiento de la versión draft (soft soap + propan-2-ol). MÉTODO: utilizando la metodología europea EN 1499, fueron determinados factores de reducción logarítmica del número de unidades formadoras de colonia de Escherichia coli K12 antes y después de la higiene de las manos de 15 sujetos voluntarios y comparados por el test de Wilcoxon de una sola cola. RESULTADOS: Tomando como referencia el soft soap, no hubo diferencia entre el desempeño del jabón con Melaleuca alternifolia al 0,3% o jabón conteniendo triclosan al 0,5%. El soft soap + propan-2-ol se demostró más eficaz en relación a los demás procedimientos de higienización de las manos. CONCLUSIÓN: estudios que verifiquen la eficacia terapéutica de aceite esencial en la higienización de las manos pueden mejorar la adhesión a esa práctica. .

Effectiveness of disinfection with alcohol 70% (w/v) of contaminated surfaces not previously cleaned.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the disinfectant effectiveness of alcohol 70% (w/v) using friction, without previous cleaning, on work surfaces, as a concurrent disinfecting procedure in Health Services. METHOD: An experimental, randomized and single-blinded laboratory study was undertaken. The samples were enamelled surfaces, intentionally contaminated with Serratia marcescens microorganisms ATCC 14756 106 CFU/mL with 10% of human saliva added, and were submitted to the procedure of disinfection WITHOUT previous cleaning. The results were compared to disinfection preceded by cleaning. RESULTS: There was a reduction of six logarithms of the initial microbial population, equal in the groups WITH and WITHOUT previous cleaning (p=0.440) and a residual microbial load ≤ 102 CFU. CONCLUSION: The research demonstrated the acceptability of the practice evaluated, bringing an important response to the area of health, in particular to Nursing, which most undertakes procedures of concurrent cleaning /disinfecting of these work surfaces.

Effectiveness of disinfection with alcohol 70% (w/v) of contaminated surfaces not previously cleaned / Eficácia da desinfecção com álcool 70% (p/v) de superfícies contaminadas sem limpeza prévia / Eficacia de la desinfección con alcohol al 70% (p/v) de superficies contaminadas sin limpieza previa

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the disinfectant effectiveness of alcohol 70% (w/v) using friction, without previous cleaning, on work surfaces, as a concurrent disinfecting procedure in Health Services. METHOD: An experimental, randomized and single-blinded laboratory study was undertaken. The samples were enamelled surfaces, intentionally contaminated with Serratia marcescens microorganisms ATCC 14756 106 CFU/mL with 10% of human saliva added, and were submitted to the procedure of disinfection WITHOUT previous cleaning. The results were compared to disinfection preceded by cleaning. RESULTS: There was a reduction of six logarithms of the initial microbial population, equal in the groups WITH and WITHOUT previous cleaning (p=0.440) and a residual microbial load ≤ 102 CFU. CONCLUSION: The research demonstrated the acceptability of the practice evaluated, bringing an important response to the area of health, in particular to Nursing, which most undertakes procedures of concurrent cleaning /disinfecting of these work surfaces. .

OBJETIVO: avaliar a eficácia desinfetante do álcool 70% (p/v) sob fricção, sem limpeza prévia, nas superfícies de trabalho, como procedimento de desinfecção concorrente em Serviços de Saúde. MÉTODO: foi desenvolvido estudo experimental laboratorial, randomizado e unicegado. As amostras foram constituídas de superfícies esmaltadas, intencionalmente contaminadas com microrganismos Serratia marcescens ATCC 14756 106 Unidades Formadoras de Colônias/mL, acrescidos de 10% de saliva humana, e submetidas ao procedimento de desinfecção sem limpeza prévia. Os resultados foram comparados à desinfecção precedida da limpeza. RESULTADOS: houve redução de seis logaritmos da população microbiana inicial, igualmente nos grupos com e sem limpeza prévia (p=0,440) e uma carga microbiana residual ≤ 102 Unidades Formadoras de Colônias. CONCLUSÃO: a pesquisa demonstrou a aceitabilidade da prática avaliada, trazendo importante resposta para a área da saúde, especialmente à enfermagem, que mais executa os procedimentos de limpeza/desinfecção concorrentes dessas superfícies de trabalho. .

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la eficacia desinfectante de alcohol al 70% (p/v) por fricción, sin limpieza previa, en las superficies de trabajo, como procedimiento de desinfección cotidiana o de rutina en Servicios de Salud. MÉTODO: Fue desarrollado un estudio experimental de laboratorio, aleatorio y uni-ciego. Las muestras fueron obtenidas de superficies esmaltadas, intencionalmente contaminadas con microorganismos Serratia marcescens ATCC 14756 106 UFC/mL acrecido con 10% de saliva humana, sometidas al procedimiento de desinfección SIN limpieza previa. Los resultados fueron comparados a la desinfección después de limpieza. RESULTADOS: Hubo una reducción de seis logaritmos de la población microbiana inicial, igualmente en los grupos COM y SIN limpieza previa (p=0,440) y una carga microbiana residual ≤ 102 UFC. CONCLUSIÓN: La investigación demostró que es aceptable la práctica evaluada ofreciendo así una importante respuesta para el área de la salud, especialmente para la Enfermería, que es la que más ejecuta procedimientos de limpieza/desinfección cotidiana o de rutina de esas superficies de trabajo. .

Comparison of hand hygiene antimicrobial efficacy: Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil versus triclosan.

OBJECTIVE: this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of hand hygiene performed with two different soap formulations: 0.3% Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil versus 0.5% triclosan, and to compare them with two reference hygiene procedures: the official methodology procedure (soft soap) versus the draft version of the procedure (soft soap + propan-2-ol). METHOD: using the European EN 1499 method, logarithmic reduction factors were determined for the number of colony forming units of Escherichia coli K12 before and after hand hygiene of 15 volunteer subjects, and compared using the one-tailed Wilcoxon test. RESULTS: referring to the soft soap, there was no difference between the performance of soap with 0.3% M. alternifolia and soap containing 0.5% triclosan. The soft soap + propan-2-ol proved to be more effective than the other hand hygiene procedures. CONCLUSION: studies to verify the therapeutic efficacy of essential oil in hand hygiene can improve adherence to this practice.

Desinfecção das canetas de alta rotação com álcool 70% p/v sem limpeza prévia: avaliação do risco de infecção cruzada / Disinfection of high-speed dental equipment with 70% ethanol without previous cleaning: assessment of cross-infection risk

Introdução: Na prática clínica odontológica, justificada pela praticidade, tempo curto disponível entre os atendimentos, associados à insuficiente previsão e provisão das Canetas de Alta Rotação (CAR), a descontaminação destas por meio de aplicação direta do álcool 70% p/v, sem limpeza prévia, é uma realidade. Este procedimento contraria, a priori, os protocolos de processamento que recomendam, no mínimo, limpeza seguida de desinfecção de alto nível para prevenção de infecção cruzada. Objetivo: avaliar a desinfecção das CAR com álcool 70% p/v, sem limpeza prévia com vistas ao risco de causar infecção cruzada. Método: caracterizou-se como uma pesquisa pragmática em um Estabelecimento Odontológico, onde rotineiramente as práticas de interesse para o estudo estavam presentes. O grupo experimental foi composto por 100 amostras de CAR utilizadas em tratamentos diversos, após a fricção do desinfetante por 90 segundos em sua superfície externa. Para avaliação dos resultados, uma gaze umedecida com soro fisiológico foi utilizada como carreador para o arraste dos possíveis micro-organismos nas superfícies desinfetadas. Metade do número das amostras (50) foi analisada pelo método de filtração por membrana (Método I - quantitativo), sendo cada gaze imersa em 300 mL de solução fisiológica. Sequencialmente, as amostras foram expostas a sonicação e agitação. Em seguida, o lavado foi filtrado em três partes iguais para diferentes análises (micro-organismos aeróbios, anaeróbios e específicos da microbiota oral humana), por meio da membrana com porosidade de 0,45 m. As outras 50 amostras foram analisadas pelo método de imersão direta da gaze em meio de cultura Fluid Thioglycollate Medium (Método II qualitativo).O tubo contendo a gaze foi agitado e incubado a 37ºC por 21 dias. Resultados: as amostras analisadas pelo Método I apresentaram crescimento positivo em 27/50 (54%) das amostras na faixa de 100 a 102 UFC/amostra. Deste total, foram identificados sete micro-organismos distintos, representados por 37,1% do Staphylococcus coagulase negativa, 28,5% dos Bacillus spp, 17,1% dos Bacilo Gram positivos não esporulados, 5,7% dos Micrococcus spp, 5,7% dos Penicillium spp, 2,8% Acinetobacter baumannii e 2,8% da Candida spp. No grupo analisado pelo Método II, o total de tubos com crescimento positivo foi de 12/50 (24%) amostras. Deste total, foram identificados três micro-organismos distintos, sendo 38,4% de Bacilos Gram positivos inespecíficos, seguidos dos Staphylococcus spp e Peptococcus spp com a mesma porcentagem de positividade de 30,7% cada. O grupo controle negativo, composto por amostras submetidas à limpeza e esterilização consecutiva, apresentaram resultados satisfatórios de ausência microbiana na totalidade das amostras. O crescimento médio encontrado no grupo controle positivo foi de 17,5 UFC/placa, com exceção de uma amostra que apresentou crescimento incontável. Conclusão: os resultados da presente investigação reprovam a prática da descontaminação das CAR com álcool 70% p/v, sem limpeza prévia, substanciada pela sobrevivência de micro-organismos que não corresponderam à ação fungicida e bactericida esperada do álcool 70% p/v na condição de desinfetante de nível intermediário. Outro aspecto que reforça a reprovação da prática analisada é a consideração de que os micro-organismos recuperados, mesmo sendo de baixo potencial patogênico, podem comportar-se como anfibiontes, isto é, são capazes de agredir o hospedeiro quando as condições ambientais e imunológicas são favoráveis aos micro-organismos, causando infecção.

Introduction: In dental clinical practice, decontamination of high-speed dental equipment (HSDE) by direct use of 70% ethanol without previous cleaning, justified by practicality, the short-time available between appointments, together with inadequate predicting and provision of HSDE, is a reality. This procedure, a priori, contradicts the processing protocols recommended to prevent cross-infection. Objective: to evaluate the disinfection of HSDE with 70% ethanol without previous cleaning, with views of cross-infection risk. Method: the present study was characterized as a pragmatic research in a Dental Office, which practices of interest to the study were routinely performed. The experimental group consisted of 100 samples of HSDE used in different treatments after rubbing the disinfectant for 90 seconds on its outer surface. To evaluate the results, gauze moistened with saline solution was used as a carrier for obtaining microorganisms from the disinfected surfaces. Half of the samples (50) were analyzed by membrane filtration (Method I - quantitative), with the gauze being immersed in 300 mL of saline solution. Sequentially, the sample was exposed to sonication and agitation. After that, the lavage was filtered in three equal parts for different analyses, through a membrane with 0.45 m porosity and seeded on blood agar culture medium, for recovery of aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms, as well as those specifically found in the human oral microbiota. The other 50 samples were analyzed by direct immersion of the gauze in culture medium (Method II - Qualitative): after rubbing the wet gauze on the outer surface of the HSDE, it was placed directly in Fluid Thioglycollate culture medium.The tube containing the gauze was shaken in a vortex mixer and then incubated at 37 ° C for 21 days. Results: samples analyzed by Method I, showed positive growth in 27/50 (54%) of the samples within the range of 100 to 102 CFU/sample. Of this total, 7 different microorganisms were identified, represented by 37.1% of coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, 28.5% of Bacillus spp, 17.1% of non-sporulating Gram-positive bacillus, 5.7% of Micrococcus spp, 5.7 % of Penicillium spp, 2.8% of Acinetobacter baumannii and 2.8% of Candida spp. In the group analyzed by Method II, the total number of tubes with positive growth was 12/50 (24%) samples. Of this total, we identified 2 different microorganisms, being 38.4% of Gram-positive bacillus nonspecific, followed by Staphylococcus spp and Peptococcus spp with the same percentage of positivity of 30.7% each. The negative control group, composed of samples subjected to cleaning and sterilization consecutive showed satisfactory results. The average growth found in the positive control group was 17.5 CFU/sample, except for one sample that showed growth uncountable. Conclusion: the results of the present study do not support the practice of decontamination of HSDE with 70% ethanol without previous cleaning, based on the evidence of microorganism survival that did not meet the expected bactericidal and fungicidal action of alcohol as an intermediate level disinfectant. Another aspect that reinforces the disapproval this practice, it is the consideration that the micro-organisms recovered, even being low pathogenic potential, may behave as anfibionte, which are capable of harming the host when the environmental and immune conditions are favorable to micro-organisms, causing infection.

[Evaluation of microbial growth on single-use vitrectomy probes reprocessed in healthcare practice]. / Avaliação do crescimento microbiano em sondas de uso único para vitrectomia reprocessadas na prática assistencial.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbial growth on single-use vitrectomy probes reprocessed in healthcare practice. We investigated nine vitrectomy probes that had been reused and reprocessed using different methods. The samples were sectioned, individually, in portions of 3.5 cm, totaling 979 sampling units (extensions, connectors and vitrectomy cutters), which were inoculated in culture medium and incubated at 37º C for 14 days. The results showed microbial growth on 57 (5.8%) sample units, 25 of which had been sterilized using ethylene oxide, 16 by hydrogen peroxide plasma, and 16 by low-temperature steam and formaldehyde. Seventeen microbial species were identified. The most prevalent were: Micrococcus spp., coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas spp., and Bacillus subtilis. The reuse of single-use vitrectomy probes was shown to be unsafe, therefore this practice is not recommended.

Avaliação do crescimento microbiano em sondas de uso único para vitrectomia reprocessadas na prática assistencial / Evaluation of microbial growth on single-use vitrectomy probes reprocessed in healthcare practice / Evaluación de crecimiento microbiano en sondas de uso único para vitrectomía recicladas en la práctica asistencial

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o crescimento microbiano em sondas para vitrectomia de uso único, reprocessadas na prática assistencial. Foram investigadas nove sondas reusadas e reprocessadas por diferentes métodos. As sondas foram segmentadas, individualmente, em porções de 3,5 cm, totalizando em 979 unidades amostrais (extensões, conectores e ponteiras) inoculadas em meio de cultura e incubadas a 37ºC, por 14 dias. Os resultados mostraram crescimento microbiano em 57 (5,8%) unidades amostrais, das quais, 25 foram esterilizadas por Óxido de Etileno, 16 por Plasma de Peróxido de Hidrogênio e 16 por Vapor à Baixa Temperatura e Formaldeído. Foram identificadas 17 espécies microbianas, sendo as mais prevalentes o Micrococcus spp., Staphylococcus coagulase negativa, Pseudomonas spp. e Bacillus subtilis. O reuso de sondas de uso único para vitrectomia não se mostrou seguro, portanto tal prática não é recomendada.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbial growth on single-use vitrectomy probes reprocessed in healthcare practice. We investigated nine vitrectomy probes that had been reused and reprocessed using different methods. The samples were sectioned, individually, in portions of 3.5 cm, totaling 979 sampling units (extensions, connectors and vitrectomy cutters), which were inoculated in culture medium and incubated at 37ºC for 14 days. The results showed microbial growth on 57 (5.8%) sample units, 25 of which had been sterilized using ethylene oxide, 16 by hydrogen peroxide plasma, and 16 by low-temperature steam and formaldehyde. Seventeen microbial species were identified. The most prevalent were: Micrococcus spp., coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas spp., and Bacillus subtilis. The reuse of single-use vitrectomy probes was shown to be unsafe, therefore this practice is not recommended.

Este estudio objetivó evaluar el crecimiento microbiano en sondas para vitrectomía de uso único recicladas en la práctica asistencial. Se investigaron nueve sondas reutilizadas y recicladas mediante diferentes métodos. Las sondas fueron segmentadas individualmente en porciones de 3,5 cm, totalizándose 979 unidades de muestra (extensiones, conectores y punteras), inoculadas en medio de cultivo e incubadas a 37ºC por 14 días. Los resultados demostraron crecimiento microbiano en 57 (5,8%) unidades de muestra, 25 de las cuales habían sido esterilizadas con óxido de etileno, 16 con plasma de peróxido de hidrógeno y 16 por vapor a baja temperatura y formaldehido. Se identificaron 17 especies microbianas, prevaleciendo el Micrococcus spp, Staphylococcus couagulasa negativo, Pseudomonas spp y Bacillus subtilis. La reutilización de sondas de uso único para vitrectomía no demostró seguridad, por lo que la práctica no es recomendable.

Periodic sterility assessment of materials stored for up to 6 months at continuous microbial contamination risk: laboratory study.

An investigation was conducted to test the hypothesis that the storage time of packaging sterility has no effect on contamination susceptibility even under deliberate bacterial exposure (Serratia marcescens). No growth of the test microorganisms was identified in the experimental group in any of the storage intervals (7, 14, 28, 90, and 180 days). Current recommendations/guidelines suggest that contamination of packaging occurs only because of events. This study, done in vitro, supports these recommendations.

Analysis of the microbial load in instruments used in orthopedic surgeries.

BACKGROUND: Because of advances in technology, the number of orthopedic surgeries, mainly hip and knee replacement surgeries, has increased, with a total of 150,000 prosthetic surgeries estimated per year in the United States and 400,000 worldwide. METHODS: We used an exploratory cross-sectional study, with a quantitative approach to determine the microbial load in instruments used in orthopedic surgeries, quantifying and identifying the microbial growth genus and species, according to the surgical potential of contamination that characterizes the challenge faced by the Material and Sterilization Center at the Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Hospital das Clinicas of the School of Medicine of the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil.The orthopedic surgical instruments were immersed, after their use, in sterilized distilled water, sonicated in an ultrasonic washer, and posteriorly agitated. Subsequently, the wash was filtrated through a 0.45-mum membrane and incubated in aerobic and anaerobic mediums and in medium for fungi and yeasts. RESULTS: In clean surgeries, 47% of the instruments were contaminated; in contaminated surgeries, 70%; and, in infected surgeries, 80%. Regardless of the contamination potential of the surgeries, the highest quantitative incidence of microorganism recovery was located in the 1 to 100 colony-forming unit range, and 13 samples presented a microbial growth potential >300 colony-forming units. Regardless of the contamination potential of the surgeries, there was a convergence in the incidence of negative-coagulase Staphylococcus growth (28%, clean surgeries; 32%, contaminated surgeries; and 29%, infected surgeries) and Staphylococcus aureus (28%, contaminated surgeries; and 43%, infected surgeries). CONCLUSION: Most of the microorganisms recovered from the analyzed instruments (78%) were vegetative bacteria that presented their death curve at around 80 degrees C, characterizing a low challenge considering the processes of cleaning and sterilization currently employed by the Material and Sterilization Center. Fewer microorganisms were recovered from instruments used in clean surgeries in comparison with those used in contaminated and infected surgeries.

Evaluation of the sterilization efficacy of domestic electric drills used in orthopaedic surgeries / Avaliação da eficácia da esterilização de furadeiras elétricas domésticas utilizadas em cirurgias ortopédicas

It is estimated that electric drills (ED) have been used in orthopaedic surgeries for bone drilling for more than 50 years in Brazilian hospitals. It is an electric, thermosensitive equipment, not indicated for surgical use, which has not been previously evaluated regarding the sterilization efficacy, being suspect of infection risk. This study evaluated the efficacy of sterilization by ethylene oxide (EtO) of new drills that were intentionally contaminated with Bacillus atrophaeus spores. An experimental, laboratory, randomized applied research was developed, where 16 electric drills were analyzed, in addition to positive and negative controls. All the previously cleaned and sterilized equipment were submitted to contamination by spores. The experimental group was submitted to cleaning and sterilization by EtO and test of sterility by filtration through a 0.45 µm membrane. The membranes were cultivated and Gram and Wirtz-Conklin staining were carried out in positive results for spore visualization. An efficacy of 99.99999881 percent of the process of sterilization by EtO was confirmed, with a probability of survival of 1.19 x 10-8. Under the development conditions of the experiment, the efficacy of the sterilization of ED by EtO was confirmed.

Estima-se que há mais de 50 anos, as furadeiras elétricas têm sido empregadas em cirurgias ortopédicas nos hospitais brasileiros para a perfuração óssea. Trata-se de equipamento elétrico, termossensível, não indicado para uso cirúrgico, não avaliado anteriormente quanto à eficácia da esterilização, suspeitando-se de risco para infecções. Esse estudo avaliou a eficácia da esterilização por óxido de etileno (ETO) de furadeiras novas intencionalmente contaminadas com esporos de Bacillus atrophaeus. Foi desenvolvida pesquisa experimental, laboratorial, randomizada e aplicada onde foram analisadas 16 furadeiras elétricas, além de controle positivo e negativo. Todos os equipamentos previamente limpos e esterilizados foram submetidos à contaminação com esporos. O grupo experimental foi submetido à limpeza e esterilização por ETO e teste de esterilidade por filtração por membrana de 0,45 µm. As membranas foram cultivadas e para resultados positivos foram realizadas coloração de Gram e Wirtz-Conklin para visualização dos esporos. Foi comprovada a eficiência de 99,99999881 por cento do processo de esterilização por ETO, com a probabilidade de sobrevivência de 1,19 x 10-8. Nas condições do desenvolvimento do experimento, a eficácia da esterilização das FE por ETO foi comprovada.

Evaluation of the sterilization efficacy of domestic electric drills used in orthopaedic surgeries.

It is estimated that electric drills (ED) have been used in orthopaedic surgeries for bone drilling for more than 50 years in Brazilian hospitals. It is an electric, thermosensitive equipment, not indicated for surgical use, which has not been previously evaluated regarding the sterilization efficacy, being suspect of infection risk. This study evaluated the efficacy of sterilization by ethylene oxide (EtO) of new drills that were intentionally contaminated with Bacillus atrophaeus spores. An experimental, laboratory, randomized applied research was developed, where 16 electric drills were analyzed, in addition to positive and negative controls. All the previously cleaned and sterilized equipment were submitted to contamination by spores. The experimental group was submitted to cleaning and sterilization by EtO and test of sterility by filtration through a 0.45 >m membrane. The membranes were cultivated and Gram and Wirtz-Conklin staining were carried out in positive results for spore visualization. An efficacy of 99.99999881% of the process of sterilization by EtO was confirmed, with a probability of survival of 1.19 x 10 (-8). Under the development conditions of the experiment, the efficacy of the sterilization of ED by EtO was confirmed.

A ventilação de furadeiras elétricas constitui fonte de contaminação para a cirurgia? / Is ordinary eletric drills' venting port a potencial source of surgical infection?

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o risco de contaminação operatória pela ventilação do motor de furadeiras elétricas (FE) durante a perfuração óssea em cirurgias ortopédicas. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: estudo experimental, laboratorial, randomizado analisou FE da prática clínica e FE novas (limpas e esterilizadas) submetidas à contaminação com esporos de Bacillus atrophaeus na concentração 84 x 10(6) UFC. O ar gerado pelo acionamento do motor da FE foi coletado e cultivado. RESULTADOS: Foram identificadas apenas duas culturas positivas para as FE da prática clínica, assim como uma cultura positiva para o Bacillus atrophaeus com crescimento de 1UFC (1,19 x 10(8)). CONCLUSÃO: nas condições do estudo, pode-se afirmar que o ar gerado pela ventilação do motor da FE não consiste em fonte de contaminação para o sítio cirúrgico.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the potential risk of surgical contamination by the venting port of ordinary electric drills (ED) employed in orthopaedic surgeries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: an experimental laboratory, randomized study was developed to analyze EDs in surgical practice and new cleaned and sterilized equipment, which were contaminated with Bacillus atrophaeus spores at a concentration of 84 X 10(6) UFC. The air generated by the engine of each drill was collected and cultivated on sterile agar plates. RESULTS: Positive culture was identified in two ED in surgical practice, as well as a positive culture to Bacillus atrophaeus with 1 CFU growth (1,19 X 10-8). CONCLUSION: In the conditions of the experiment, the airgenerated by the venting port of the ED's engine does not consist of a source of contamination for the surgical site.