Different types of SBS are commonly used, and it is extremely important that each type is used correctly to maintain sterility and patient safety.
Sterilization pouches and reels are preformed sterile barrier systems (SBS), made up of two materials. One side of the pouch/reel needs to be permeable, usually paper/Tyvek to allow the sterilising agent such as steam to enter the packaging. The other side is usually multilayer plastic film, transparent and impermeable to the sterilising agent.
Depending on the materials used, pouches and reels may be compatible with steam and/or low-temperature sterilisation. The seals are made using heat sealers in a hospital CSSD.
For more detail, see Standard EN868-5 Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices – Part 5: Sealable pouches and reels of porous materials and plastic film construction. Requirements and test methods.
Sterilization wraps are often used for packing baskets or metal instrument trays containing reusable medical devices (RMDs). These sheets can be made of creped paper or non-woven, and can be 100% cellulose fibers, 100% synthetic or a mix of cellulose, synthetic and binders.
Depending on the material the wraps are made of, they may be compatible with steam and/or low-temperature sterilisation.
Wrapping sheets may be folded in envelope or parallel style.
For more detail, see Standard EN868-2 Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices – Part 2: Sterilization wrap – Requirements and test methods.
The SBA provides information to help healthcare professionals understand SBS labelling, good practice and handling techniques.
