Protect optical performance of scopes, cameras, and light cords

<div > <div class="field" ><p>Reduce repairs</p></div> </div>

Why SPD leaders are reassessing steam sterilization of optical components

Steam achieves sterility — but repeated heat and moisture can be hard on optical components over time.

Increased repair and contract renewal costs

Reduced performance with diminished image quality

Shortened lifespan expectancy

Surgeon dissatisfaction

<div > <div class="field" ><h2>Choose low temperature sterilization for optics</h2><p>Rigid scopes, cameras, and light cords are engineered for precision. Low‑temperature sterilization avoids repeated heat and moisture stress that can degrade optical components over time. STERRAD™ Systems with ALLClear™ Technology can help preserve optical performance and reduce damage linked to repeated steam exposure, while achieving the highest level of sterility.</p></div> </div>

What published data suggests

Less Damage vs. Steam

“High temperature damage to lenses was reduced in the order of 80% when low-temperature hydrogen peroxide gas plasma was applied for sterilization instead of steam autoclaving”.¹

Repairs Impact Performance

Repaired endoscopes were reported to have “30% fewer usages” and “11% lower” median light transmission compared to new.¹

Economics Can Favor Low-Temp Sterilization

A published economic analysis reported higher low temperature sterilization costs can be outweighed by reduced repair frequency over time.²

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Frequently Asked Questions

While steam achieves sterility, sterile processing teams should consider low-temperature sterilization when repairs and image issues increase without another clear cause.

Throughput includes drying, rework, and downtime. Cycle time alone doesn’t tell the full story.

Contracts manage repair fees. They don’t prevent damage or downtime, and claim volume can affect renewals.

Validated packaging, device IFUs, and load setup matter. A consult with an ASP expert helps ensure you are achieving the most operational efficiency with STERRAD™ Systems.

Low-temperature sterilization actually saves money over time by helping to reduce repair frequency.

References

Noordmans, H. J., de Braak, M., Brakel, M. J., Onur, A. R., De Geus, J., & Jaspers, J. E. N. (2025). Multi‑Center evaluation of optical degradation patterns in rigid endoscopes: A data‑driven approach. Medical Devices: Evidence and Research, 18, 507–518. https://doi.org/10.2147/MDER.S550187 [dovepress.com]
McCreanor, V., & Graves, N. (2017). An economic analysis of the benefits of sterilizing medical instruments in low‑temperature systems instead of steam. American Journal of Infection Control, 45(7), 756–760. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajic.2017.02.026 [ajicjournal.org], [eprints.qut.edu.au], [pubmed.ncb…lm.nih.gov]

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