Effectiveness of the glass-bead sterilizer in ophthalmic instruments

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the glass-bead sterilizer compared to the autoclave in inhibiting the growth of common ocular bacterial pathogens.

Methods: This is an experimental study involving the use of ophthalmic instruments (toothless and toothed forceps, Vannas scissors, McPherson forceps) that were inoculated with the test bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The instruments were assigned to group A (autoclave sterilization) and group B (glass-bead sterilization). Group A instruments were autoclaved for 30 minutes and then smeared directly into blood agar plates (positive control). Group B instruments underwent glass bead sterilization for 30 seconds, and a separate batch for 60 seconds. They were also smeared directly into blood agar plates. All blood agar plates were incubated for 48 hours and examined for bacterial growth. Chi-square test was used to analyze the data.

Results:  No growth was observed for each type of bacteria after autoclave sterilization and glass-bead sterilization.

Conclusion: Glass-bead sterilization is as effective as autoclave sterilization for use in ophthalmic instruments.