Glossary Term
Heat Sterilization (Dry & Moist Heat)
Definition
Heat sterilization is a method of sterilizing medical devices, instruments, or materials by exposing them to high temperatures for a specific period to eliminate all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. Heat sterilization is categorized into dry heat sterilization, which uses hot air, and moist heat sterilization, which uses steam under pressure.
Relevance to the MedTech Industry
Heat sterilization ensures that medical devices and instruments are free of microbial contamination, meeting stringent sterility requirements for safe use in healthcare settings. It is widely used in hospitals, laboratories, and manufacturing facilities for products that can tolerate high temperatures.
Additional Information & Related Terms
Types of Heat Sterilization
Dry Heat Sterilization
Utilizes hot air, typically at temperatures between 160°C and 200°C.
Commonly performed in a hot air oven.
Suitable for items that are heat-resistant but cannot tolerate moisture, such as powders, oils, and metal instruments.
Moist Heat Sterilization (Steam Sterilization)
Uses saturated steam under pressure, typically at 121°C to 134°C.
Performed in an autoclave.
Effective for sterilizing surgical instruments, dressings, and heat-stable materials, such as stainless steel.