A heads up on ensuring adequate sterilization

In the item "A tip for laser tips" in the December 2007 "Idea Exchange," plastic needle covers are used as containers for sterilizing laser tips. If the plastic is not steam-penetrable, then the tips are not being exposed to moist heat and will not necessarily be sterile, even though the time and temperature might be adequate for exposure to moist heat.

Raymond J. Schuerger, DVM
Thornwood Veterinary Hospital
Pittsburgh, Pa.