Surgical Instrument IFU: Cleaning, Inspection and Sterilization Guide
The IFU (Instructions For Use) describes how a reusable instrument should be reprocessed. This article summarises the general cycle used in most hospitals; always follow the IFU that comes with your instruments and your local regulations.
1. Point-of-use care Wipe gross soil off instruments straight after the procedure and keep them moist (a wet towel or enzymatic foam spray) so blood does not dry. Never put sharp or delicate items below heavy ones.
2. Cleaning Open all hinges. Manual cleaning uses a soft brush, a neutral or enzymatic detergent and lukewarm water. Ultrasonic cleaning helps reach box-locks and serrations. Washer-disinfectors give repeatable, validated results. Do not use steel wool, abrasive powders or chlorine bleach.
3. Rinse and dry Use demineralized or purified water for the final rinse to prevent spots and corrosion, then dry completely. Moisture left in joints causes rust.
4. Inspection and lubrication Check tip alignment, ratchets, box-locks, sharpness and cracks. Apply instrument milk to hinges where needed. Remove damaged instruments for repair or replacement.
5. Packing and sterilization Pack in wraps or pouches suitable for the method, with indicators. Steam sterilization (autoclave) is the most common method for stainless steel and titanium instruments. Follow the validated cycle of your sterilizer and allow instruments to cool and dry before storage.
6. Storage and traceability Store sterile packs dry and clean. Keep records of cycles so that every set can be traced.
Why this matters Proper reprocessing protects patients from infection and protects your investment: well-maintained instruments last for years.
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