Disinfection and sterilization in gynaecological endoscopy: problems and costs

Objective To determine and compare the total costs of two low-temperature sterilization systems. Design The direct and indirect costs of ethylene oxide and hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization were recorded over a 6-month period. Break-even point analysis was performed to establish when the use of the gas plasma system represented a cost saving. Results Hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization represented a cost saving after 95 units of sterilization. Conclusions Gas plasma sterilization was shown to be a valid method in hospital procedures with respect to both economy and quality.