Hygitech Helix Test (250)

A Helix Test tests a vacuum autoclave's capacity to sterilise hollow items such as handpieces or autoclavable suction tubes.

Using a Helix Test

Helix Tests need to be carried out every day using a specific testing cycle (in an empty autoclave).

Helix Test Presentation

The Hygitech Helix Test consists of a 1.5 metre long tube open at one end. The other end is closed by a hermetically sealed capsule which contains a strip printed with an indicator ink.

Helix Test Procedure

Subject the Helix Test test to a sterilisation cycle of 134°C for 3 to 5 minutes, or 121°C for 15 minutes, to simulate the sterilisation performance of an autoclave for a "complex" medical device.

Helix Test Principle

1. The steam should penetrate the inside of the coiled tube of the Helix Test, which is deliberately narrow, and cause a reaction on the strip printed with the indicator ink.
2. If the ink on the Helix Test strip turns completely black then the sterilisation is successful.
3. However, if the ink is still yellow or partially yellow then the test is considered negative (this means that the vapour has not penetrated properly to the indicator).
4. In the event of a failed test without on obvious cause then seek professional advice to validate the origin of the anomaly (incorrect calibration, contact time too low, etc).

Hygitech Helix Test Traceability

To ensure traceability, it is important to keep each Helix Test result in a register.

The objective of record keeping is being to demonstrate that sterilisation equipment is functioning correctly in the event that a case of patient infection is discovered.

Hygitech Helix Test strips feature an adhesive element to help make record keeping easier.

Hygitech Helix Test Benefits

• Reliable: Helix tests guarantee good sterilisation and proper functioning of the autoclave, even for complex (hollow) products.
• Easy to read: Colour-coded for clear reading providing a legible and easy-to-interpret result.
• Tracking: Hygitech Helix Test strips are adhesive to enable easy record keeping.

Helix Test Materials & Specifications

• Helix Test Indicator Strip material: 190gsm paper.
• Helix Test Indicator Strip dimensions: 6 x 76mm.
• Helix Test Tube material: Teflon.
• Helix Test Tube dimensions: 1.5 metre length with 3mm diameter.

Contents

• 1 x Helix Test Device
• 250 x adhesive Helix Test strips