Quick Reference for Sterilization of Sapphire Knife

Cleaning

Manual Cleaning

1. Use a syringe with distilled water to flush the instrument of blood and body fluids.
2. Dip the blade and handle into a weak alkaline cleaning solution and let it sit for 60 minutes at a temperature of +22°C (+72°F ).
3. The handle of a knife may be cleaned with a soft brush.
4. Flush the instrument with tap water for 30 seconds. Then, rinse with distilled water for other 30 seconds. The blade should be pointed down for flushing.

Ultrasonic Cleaning

Using a  sterilizing case with silicon inserts or mats to reduce vibration and protect the blade.

1. Fill the ultrasonic cleaner with warm distilled water (+70°C (+152°F)).
2. Immerse the blade and handle in the water.
3. A 2 to 3 min washing cycle should be enough to clean knife.
4. Rinse the instrument with distilled water. 

   Suggested Sterilization Methods

   We recommend sterilizing the knives in trays with silicone inserts or silicone mats. This will prevent movement.

   Sterilization Method	Type of Sterilization	Temperature	Exposure Time
   Steam	Gravity Displacement	+132ºC (+270ºF)	4 min
   Flash Process	Gravity Displacement	+132ºC (+270ºF)	4 min
   Autoclave	Gravity Displacement	+132ºC (+270ºF)	4 min

    

   
   These sterilization cycles represent the industry standards and should be capable of producing a sterile device.

   NOTE: Ethylene oxide (ETO) sterilization is recommended for items that are heat or moisture sensitive, and is best  suited for expensive medical equipment. ETO takes longer, between 3.5–16 hours to ensure sterilization. If time is not an factor, then ETO is an excellent sterilization method. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for your instruments.