Precision Matters: Why Proper Detergent Use Is Critical for Cleaning Complex Medical Devices

At the 2025 HSPA Annual Conference & Expo, Matthias Tschoerner, Dr Sc, Nat, head of Applications, Engineering, Research, & Development from a Hamburg-based chemical company, Chemische Fabrik Dr. Weigert GmbH & Co. KG, shared insights into the science and challenges of cleaning medical devices in sterile processing departments (SPDs).

The focus was on how detergents—especially those containing surfactants and enzymes—play a crucial role in removing contaminants like blood and proteins from surgical instruments. However, effective cleaning is not only about using the right chemicals; it also requires strict adherence to validated parameters, including temperature, time, concentration, and mechanical action.

“And the major challenge today is, I think, with the proceeding of the operations and techniques and forward instrumentation, the instruments become more and more complex, and this makes them very difficult to handle,” Tschoerner told Infection Control Today^® (ICT^®) during an interview at the conference, held from April 26 to 29 in Louisville, Kentucky,

One of the key points he raised was the delicate balance of temperature when using enzymatic cleaners. If the temperature is too low, cleaning performance drops. Too high, and enzymes can become inactivated, rendering the detergent ineffective. This highlights the critical role of SPD technicians, who must precisely follow instructions for use (IFUs) to ensure instruments are cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized safely.

Tschoerner emphasized the growing complexity of surgical instruments as a significant challenge. With advancements in medical procedures and equipment, instruments now have intricate designs that are harder to disassemble, clean, and reassemble. Every surface, both internal and external, must be meticulously cleaned before sterilization, making the SPD’s work foundational to patient safety.

Tschoerner concluded by praising the knowledge exchange at the conference, noting that learning from peers and sharing expertise is essential in advancing reprocessing practices. As instruments become more complex, continued education and collaboration will be key to maintaining effective and safe health care environments.