Arthroscopic cutters and burs are initially inspected for visible damage. Cutters and burs are decontaminated and cleaned through a multi-step process that involves disassembly of removable components, where applicable, to expose mated surfaces or difficult-to-reach areas for effective cleaning such as seals, and where applicable, radio frequency identification parts and washers.

Cleaning steps include:

• Use of enzymatic cleansers, multiple ultrasonic tanks with tailored programming and manual brushing while undergoing visual inspection under magnification
• All devices and components are visually inspected under lighted magnification at multiple stages during the process for overall device integrity

Testing includes:

• Every device is function tested
• Pull testing to identify damaged hubs, drop testing to verify smooth insertion and mating of inner and outer shafts, spin testing to confirm free rotation and proper mating, and radio frequency chip recognition by originally manufacturer consoles
• Every device is marked in compliance with MDUFSA requirements
• Devices are packaged in thermoformed trays, sealed and packaged in chipboard boxes in original manufacturer case quantities

Arthroscopic shavers should be collected in designated 17-gallon collection containers. Stryker’s 4-gallon containers can also be used for collections in surgery centers or designated Orthopedic specialty rooms.

Savings Direct is a program that enables healthcare organizations to manage their reprocessing programs internally, and is designed to support their efforts to reduce supply costs and environmental impact. Participating organizations drive collection and shipment of single-use devices (SUDs) to potentially maximize their savings.