Gas sterilization principle of airway management devices

In airway management devices, such as endotracheal tubes, laryngeal masks and tracheostomy tubes, gas sterilization can ensure that these devices remain sterile before use, thereby reducing the risk of infection.

The principle of gas sterilization mainly relies on the action of chemical gases to achieve the purpose of sterilization by inhibiting or killing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. The most commonly used gas sterilants include ethylene oxide (EtO), hydrogen peroxide gas and chlorinated carbon dioxide.

Ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization:
Mechanism: Ethylene oxide is a highly effective sterilant that chemically reacts with the DNA, RNA and proteins of microorganisms, thereby interfering with their biosynthesis and causing the death of microorganisms.
Process: The sterilization process usually includes several steps: first, the device is placed in a closed sterilization chamber and vacuumed to remove air; then ethylene oxide gas is injected and maintained at a specific temperature (usually 30-60°C) and humidity conditions (about 30-80%) to promote gas penetration and sterilization. Finally, the residual gas is removed through ventilation and elution steps to ensure safety.

Hydrogen peroxide gas sterilization:
Mechanism: The sterilization principle of hydrogen peroxide gas is to destroy the cell membrane, protein and nucleic acid of microorganisms through its strong oxidizing property.
Process: During the sterilization process, hydrogen peroxide is converted into gas and circulated in the sterilization chamber at an appropriate concentration and pressure. Unlike ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide gas can be quickly decomposed into water and oxygen after sterilization, reducing residual chemicals, which is suitable for hospitals and clinics with strict requirements on environmental impact.