@article{MAKHILLRJMS20104631883,
    title = {Comparative Evaluation of Autoclave and Formalin Chamber Sterilization Practices on Surgical Site Infection Rates in a General Surgery Unit},
    journal = {Research Journal of Medical Sciences},
    volume = {4},
    number = {6},
    pages = {366-370},
    year = {2010},
    issn = {1815-9346},
    doi = {makrjms.2010.366.370},
    url = {https://makhillpublications.co/view-article.php?issn=1815-9346&doi=makrjms.2010.366.370},
    author = {Sandip and},
    keywords = {Sterilization, formaldehyde, immunocompromised},
    abstract = {Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a leading cause of postoperative
morbidity and institutional burden. Sterilization of surgical instruments
plays a pivotal role in infection control, particularly in high‐volume
general surgery units. To evaluate the impact of two commonly used
sterilization methods steam‐based autoclaving and chemical vapor
exposure via formalin chambers on SSI rates, microbial profiles, and
clinical outcomes. A total of 114 surgical cases were analyzed, with 60
procedures using autoclaved instruments and 54 using
formalin‐sterilized instruments. SSI incidence, microbial isolates, hospital
stay duration, and re‐intervention rates were compared across
groups.The autoclave group showed a significantly lower SSI rate (6.7%)
compared to the formalin group (20.4%). Staphylococcus aureus and
Escherichia coli were predominant in the autoclave group, while
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae were more
frequent in the formalin group. Patients in the formalin group
experienced longer hospital stays and higher re‐intervention rates.
Autoclave sterilization demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing SSIs
and improving postoperative outcomes. Formalin chamber practices,
while accessible, showed limitations in microbial control and clinical
reliability. Institutional protocols should prioritize stea}
    }