Comparative analysis of ampoules and vials in sterile and conventional packaging as to microbial load and sterility test

Abstract

Objective To compare sterility and microbial (bacteria and fungi) load in the outer part of hyperbaric bupivacaine (Neocaína®) in ampoule and bupivacaine in vial, in conventional and sterile pack formulations.Methods The sterile packs were divided into two groups: G1 (n=16) with ampoules and G2 (n=16) with vials. Conventional formulations were divided into two groups, being G3 (n=16) with ampoules and G4 (n=16) with vials. The ampoules and vials were opened and had their content drawn. The empty bottles were then placed in sterile plastic bags and sent for analysis of microbial load (bacteria and fungi) and sterility testing. Data were analyzed using the χ2 test with Yates correction, and 95% confidence interval.Results G1 and G2 showed no bacterial growth when compared to conventional groups (p<0.001). The most common agent in conventional microbiological samples was Staphylococcus aureus. There was no fungal growth in both groups.Conclusion The use of (sterile pack) reduces the microbial load of bottles, and would decrease the chance of exposure to potential contamination of the anesthetic solution.

SBA 2020: Regional anesthesia safety recommendations update

“…When sterility and microbial (bacteria and fungi) load on the outside of ampoules and vials of hyperbaric bupivacaine from conventional or sterile packaging were compared, the use of sterile packaging reduced the microbial load, and decreased the possibility of potential anesthetic solution contamination. 151 …”

“… 149 , 150 Sterile packaging is recommended as a way of increasing safety and reducing bacterial contamination of the solutions used in regional anesthesia. 149 , 151 …”