Sterilization of medical products by gamma radiation

Gamma treatment of medical products is being increasingly accepted as the sterilization method of choice in countries in SE Asia and the Western Pacific region. There are now at least 23 radiation facilities in at least 11 countries used primarily for this purpose, and source capacity has doubled over the past five years. IAEA activities in the region have assisted this expansion by promoting an awareness of the advantages of the technology. National regulations concerning gamma processing of medical products need regular review and, if necessary, revision to benefit from commercial experience gained either within the country concerned or elsewhere. This would ensure more efficient use of facilities and personnel without placing consumers of gamma sterilized medical products at risk