title: Currently practised sterilization methods--some inadvertent consequences.
abstract: Currently used sterilization techniques such as ethylene oxide, gamma irradiation, and steam sterilization could introduce inadvertent consequences, especially in polymeric materials. These could have far-reaching effects on the biocompatibility of the materials. Some of these consequences are reviewed and a typical example of the effect of steam sterilization on the properties and biocompatibility of polyethylene terephthalate is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Poojapura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
authors.forename: P D
authors.initials: PD
authors.lastname: Nair
mesh_terms: D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry / Q000528:radiation effects; D005027:Ethylene Oxide; D005720:Gamma Rays; D006801:Humans; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry / Q000528:radiation effects; D013227:Steam; D013242:Sterilization / Q000379:methods*; D013696:Temperature
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D011108:Polymers; D013227:Steam; D005027:Ethylene Oxide