References
- Physical and Composition Characteristics of Clinical Secretions Compared with Test Soils used for Validation of Flexible Endoscope Cleaning, Alfa et.al., 2016
This study focuses on determining which simulated-use test soils meet the worst-case organic levels and viscosity of clinical secretions, and have the best adhesive characteristics.
- Characterizing Simulated-Use Test Soils Used in Reprocessing Validations, Basile, et.al 2016
This publication discusses the means and methods for physically characterizing simulated use tests soils as well as physically occurring soiling.
- Validation of ATS as an Appropriate Test Soil, Alfa MJ, DeGagne P, Olson, N. Zentral Sterilization 2005
This study evaluates ATS as an indicator of cleaning efficacy and assesses its use as a ‘worst-case’ organic challenge to the microbial killing efficiency of various sterilization methods.A Survey of Reprocessing Methods, Residual Viable Bioburden and Soil Levels in patient-ready ERCP Duodenoscopes used in Canadian centers, Alfa MJ et al 2002
Data from this study indicates that there is significant buildup of protein, carbohydrate and endotoxin associated with ERCP scopes. -
Artificial Test Soil: United States Patent 6447990, Alfa MJ 2002
This is Dr. Alfa’s patent for ATS. It discusses ATS for simulated use testing and cleaning validation studies of medical devices. -
Worst-case soiling levels for patient-used flexible endoscopes before and after cleaning. Alfa MJ, DeGagne P, Olson N. 1999
This article is Dr. Alfa’s landmark study, which led to the patented formulation of ATS. In this study the soiling levels of patient used flexible endoscopes are assessed. The effect of cleaning on the soil composition and concentrations is evaluated here. This study is the underpinning of the ATS soil.