I work in a surgical facility and wanted additional clarification regarding pre-vac vs. gravity cycles of steam sterilization... I completely understand the differences between how the two cycles work (i.e. gravity vs. air vacuumed out), but what I was wondering is if ALL instruments with lumens should be pre-vac'd?? For example, if I have an instrument tray with non-porous, non-wrapped instruments, but with a few frazier suction tips in it, would this tray need to be run on a pre-vac cycle or is a gravity cycle sufficient......I guess what I'm trying to say is, does any item that has ANY sort of a lumen (whether it is short or long, etc.) need to be pre-vac'd???

The answer to you question is: no. If you have a set that contains several instruments, your choice of right cycle will be according to the hardest to sterilize item.
In your example: Frazier suction tip will require:
10 minutes in 132 C (270F) in Gravity displacement autoclave.
4 minutes in 132C in Pre Vacum autoclave.

Hope it helps,
Yaffa Raz

Dear

Gravity cycle is based on the physical fact that air is heavier than steam. The steam introduced to the chamber is pushing down the air. Gravity cycles are intended for non-wrapped solids only. If you can not assure, and you can't that the lumen will be free of residual air, use a pre vacuum cycle.

Michael Meyer
Q.A. Manager