What are the Functions of Sterile Medical Packaging?

In the medical industry, Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) is a very serious and critical topic. HAI is related to many factors, with infections caused by medical devices used in medical procedures accounting for about two-thirds of all infections. Sterile medical packaging serves as the first line of defense in protecting medical instruments and preventing infections. Failure in packaging poses a threat to the health and lives of patients and healthcare workers. This article delves into the importance and future prospects of sterile medical packaging barrier systems for medical devices and HAI, focusing on the following points.

The main functions of sterile medical packaging include:

(1) Providing microbial barrier and physical protection

(2) Being compatible with sterilization processes

(3) Maintaining sterility and integrity until use

(4) Being easy to open and facilitating sterile transfer

(5) Identifying the product with clear information and warnings

For the sterile medical device manufacturing industry, commonly used sterilization packaging materials include porous materials (i.e., breathable materials such as paper and Tyvek) and impermeable materials (such as plastic films). Common packaging forms (sterile barrier systems) include rigid blister packs, flexible blister packs (FFS packaging), sterilization tubing, header bags, and window bags.

Factors influencing the selection of sterilization packaging materials and packaging design include the specific characteristics of the medical device, the intended sterilization method, the expected use, shelf life, transportation, and storage conditions.