NeuRobot, a telecontrolled micromanipulator system having a three-dimensional rigid neuroendoscope and three guiding-manipulators, has been developed for less invasive and telerobotic neurosurgery. For applying NeuRobot to clinical usage,we investigated whether the system is safely and adequately sterilized by ethylene oxide gas (EOG). Two kinds of experiments were performed : to confirm sterilization and to measure residual EOG level were tested.A total of 16 specimens of biological indicator (Bacillus subtilis 10⁶), placed where it would be difficult for EOG to reach, were completely extincted in half the time of standard EOG sterilization.This indicates that NeuRobot achieved Sterility Assurance Level 10⁻⁶ within the standard EOG sterilization period.At day 14 after standard EOG sterilization, the residual level of EOG on NeuRobot was below 15 ppm. Our results proved that NeuRobot is able to be sterilized by EOG safely and adequately. The system will become a new neurosurgical tool for treating lesions that are difficult to deal with conventional microsurgery or neuroendoscopic surgery.
NeuRobot (Microscopic-Micromanipulator System) のエチレンオキサイドガスによる滅菌について : 臨床使用に向けて
