What type of sterilization involves the use of pressurized steam?

High-speed steam sterilization utilizes pressurized steam to effectively eliminate microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. This method is based on the principles of moisture and heat, which work together to penetrate porous materials and reach all surfaces of the instruments being sterilized. The process typically requires a temperature of about 121 degrees Celsius (250 degrees Fahrenheit) and operates under pressure to raise the boiling point of water, ensuring that steam can reach and maintain the required temperature effectively.

This technique is favored in surgical settings due to its efficiency and ability to sterilize items relatively quickly compared to other methods. The use of high-speed steam allows for shorter cycles, which is crucial in environments where rapid turnaround of sterile instruments is necessary.

In contrast, cold sterilization relies on chemical agents, ethanol sterilization employs alcohol-based solutions, and dry heat sterilization uses hot air without moisture, all of which serve different purposes or have varying levels of effectiveness in comparison to the robust method of sterilization that pressurized steam provides.