CONVERTING FROM ETO TO RADIATION STERILIZATION - EDUCATING THE MEDICAL SUPPLY INDUSTRY

In this paper the authors examine some relevant factors influencing th e conversion from ethylene oxide sterilization to gamma sterilization. Marketing tactics to promote and stimulate this activity are reviewed . TEAM GAMMA, an educational vehicle developed by Nordion Internationa l Inc. is described from the concept acceptance to the very positive r esults obtained. The structure of this multi disciplinary team of cons ultants is described. Topics presented by this team include sterilizat ion basics, material compatibility, device design manufacturing and ot her aspects of the sterilization process. The authors conclude that as sisting in the education of the medical device manufacturers regarding the conversion from EtO to gamma processing provides payback for Nord ion and the gamma processing industry. This assessment is based on the results of the ten seminars presented to date.