An update on ethylene oxide sterilization issues.

The regulations governing ethylene oxide sterilization are becoming clearer with the appearance of European standards for validation and routine control of the process. In addition, the process has undergone technological changes in recent years. In this article, the author outlines the developments that have taken place in the areas of residue reduction, biological indicators, and emission control and suggests further improvements that would ensure its place as the principle method of sterilization for the twenty first century.