Studies demonstrate that a Surgical Instrument Washer, Washer Decontaminator, Washer Disinfector that includes ultrasonic cleaning can deliver: the "complete removal of all pathogens" from surgical instruments and “surgical instruments sterile at the completion of the process". The "Proper Sequence of Washer Treatments" include a combination of mechanical and chemical treatments.
After being cleaned in a Tunnel Washer using the proper sequence of washer treatments (including Ultrasonic Cleaning) and a combination enzyme detergent cleaning concentrate: "evaluation of Washer Decontaminators Washer Disinfectors confirmed that the efficacy of disinfection was 100%". "All surgical instruments and utensils tested were sterile at the completion of the process."
The "Proper Sequence of Washer Treatments" includes a series of mechanical and chemical treatments. The mechanical treatments include: cold water pre-wash, ultrasonic cleaning, detergent wash, purified water rinses, and hot air drying. The chemical treatments include combination of enzymatic enzyme cleaners, detergents, surface conditioners and lubricants.
