2. It is a well known fact that sheep are
susceptible to spore-forming bacteria
which may cause tetanus or gas
gangrene, therefore gut tissue derived
from sheep may also be infected.
Thus thorough sterilization process is
very important. Sterilization of the
prepared catgut can be done by the
following methods,
3. DRY HEAT STERILIZATION
As collagen is the main constituent of catgut, it may turn into
gelatin when it is heated in the presence of moisture. Hence, it is
to be made moisture free before sterilizing.The processed catgut
is kept in heat-resistant glass tubes and dried in hot air oven by
slowly increasing the temperature of oven until it is completely
dried. It is then subjected to sterilization in an autoclave or in a
non-pressure vessel using anhydrous fluids such as toluene or
xylol at a temperature of 160°C or several hours.
