P ROTE IN DE TECT ION
sterile service managers with a precise tool to assess themselves the efficacy of their chemistry or AWD. The manufacturer who produces our research microscopes has now developed a simpler version (www.
bestscientificanalytical.com) with specific features designed for routine protein measurements in SSDs. Fortunately, the potential second wave of vCJD deaths did not materialise to date, although incubation can take decades in asymptomatic patients. The fact this form of CJD can be transmitted by blood implies all surgical procedures carry a risk of ‘silent’ iatrogenic transmission and still justify precautionary measures and maximum efforts to limit the amount of residual proteins on instruments before autoclaving. Higher autoclaving temperatures have been proposed as a solution against potential residual prion infectivity but a study suggested this might not be enough.21 While the fear of vCJD appears restricted to the UK based on epidemiological figures, other protein residues can cause problems and keeping such residues to the minimum is a global concern. With more sensitive protein detection tools available to end users, standards could be improved and in turn stimulate the decontamination industry to develop even more effective cleaning solutions for SSDs.
Disclaimer: This report is independent research commissioned and funded by the Department of Health and Social Care Policy Research Programme (Protein Detection Trial, 007/0203). The views expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the Department of Health and Social Care.
Acknowledgments: We thank the Sterile Services Department staff at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust who allowed us to perform our survey and collaborated in the implementation of EDIC/ EF in their facility.
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Figure 2: Residual proteins showed with the underlying surfaces (markings on a rongeur and Edwards handle). Bars are 100µm.
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About the Author
Dr. Rodolphe Hervé, senior research fellow at the University of Southampton, has over 15-year’s experience of collaborating with engineers, companies and SSDs on the reprocessing and surveillance of reusable surgical instruments and flexible endoscopes to address the issues linked to protein residues and biofilms.
APRIL 2021
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