EFHSS Questions and Answers - Answer to Question Q00564

i have some items sterilized by gamma radiation is writen over the package (items are sterile until package is damage or open) but at the same time ther is expired date on top of package can i use if no damage or broken of backage at the same time items are expired

Dear Sharif

The text may be irritating at first sight. The expiration date printed on the package informs the user that sterility is guaranteed to this date - provided the package is not opened or damaged.

Kind regards
Josy Holdener

Good day Sharif,

The quick answer to your question is NO; the items should not be used after they have passed the expiration date. There are two issues here: 1) Are the items still sterile? and 2) Have the items degraded over time? The reason for the expiration date is most likely because the items degrade over time. Plastics lose plasticizers and may become brittle and shatter, latex looses its elasticity, suture looses strength, and other materials change. So although the items may still be sterile, the quality of the items may have changed over time so that they no longer meet the required quality specifications.
The original manufacturer that placed the expiration date on the item can give you information about reprocessing the item (if that is possible), or if they will accept the item back for credit so you can get fresh supplies.

Warm regards,
Pete Bobb