What term is used for the elimination of all microorganisms from instruments?

The term "sterilization" specifically refers to the complete elimination of all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, spores, and fungi, from instruments and surfaces. This process is crucial in surgical settings, particularly in ophthalmic surgery, where even the slightest presence of microorganisms can lead to severe infections and complications. Sterilization is achieved through various methods such as steam under pressure (autoclaving), dry heat, chemical sterilants, or radiation.

Understanding this definition is essential because it distinguishes sterilization from other terms. For instance, disinfection refers to the reduction of the number of pathogenic organisms to a level where they no longer pose a risk of infection, but it may not eliminate all microorganisms. Sanitization focuses on reducing the number of microorganisms to a safe level, usually on surfaces. Aseptic technique is a method used to prevent contamination by microorganisms during medical procedures but does not alone guarantee complete sterilization. Thus, the term that accurately describes the total removal of all microorganisms from instruments is indeed "sterilization."