EO Timeline
The History of Ethylene Oxide
Ethylene oxide is a naturally occurring compound that has played a role in various industries since the 1930s. In the 1940s, it found its way into the medical field, where it was first used as a sterilant by hospitals and the military. However, the early methods of EO sterilization were quite different from what we see with Andersen Sterilizers’ methods today—larger doses, bulkier equipment, and less refined safety protocols. Over time, advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of EO have led to significant improvements in how it’s used. Today, Andersen has modernized EO sterilization to be safer, more efficient, and environmentally conscious, using smaller doses and low-temperature cycles that are ideal for delicate medical instruments. This evolution has made ethylene oxide one of the most effective sterilization methods in the world of modern healthcare.
1950s
Dr. Charles Rush Phillips research spearheads EO’s use to sterilize delicate instruments. The McDonald process was patented for medical devices. (Source)
1960s
Late in the decade, EO became the dominant chemical sterilant in major healthcare facilities.
2008
Outbreak at 2 hospitals in Highland County, Florida – As many as 70 exposed, 22 dead; legitimate issues with reprocessing. (Source)
2012
Additional outbreaks with hundreds infected and dozens killed.
2015
- LA Times runs expose uncovering CRE outbreak at UCLA – 8 infected, 3 dead, 179 patients exposed. (Source)
- FDA releases safety warnings about the use of duodenoscopes. (Source)
- FDA convenes panel of experts to consult on whether current reprocessing standards are adequate. Their conclusion is no. (Source)
- FDA recommends the use of EO for duodenoscope reprocessing. (Source)
- World’s first FDA registration for flexible chamber EO sterilizer. (Source)
2017
Renewed cleaning efforts for scopes not enough, triggering the search of most efficient methods by leading hospitals. (Source)
2020
FDA notifies facilities again that gas sterilization has a greater safety margin than HLD.
November: Andersen receives first and ONLY FDA clearance for terminal sterilization of duodenoscopes and colonoscopes. (Source)
2021
April: Urological endoscopes
June: Bronchoscopes
join the list of complex devices that cannot be dependably disinfected. FDA continues to remind facilities that gas sterilization has a greater safety margin than HLD.
Expert Guidance for Your Needs
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