Are most powered surgical instruments immersible?

Most powered surgical instruments are not immersible. This is primarily due to their electrical components and the design of the instruments, which can lead to malfunctions or damage if they are submerged in water. The motors and batteries in these devices are not intended to be exposed to liquid, as this can compromise their safety and functionality.

Instead, the cleaning of powered surgical instruments typically involves using methods such as manual cleaning, ultrasonic cleaning, or specific automated cleaning processes that minimize the risk of water exposure. Proper cleaning protocols are essential to maintain the integrity of the instruments while ensuring they are safely sterilized for use in surgical procedures. While some components may be designed for certain limited exposures to fluids, overall immersion is generally avoided to protect electronic and moving parts from damage.