Ethylene oxide gas (ETO) is a colorless gas that is flammable and explosive. The gas is used in the disinfection and sterilization of moisture-sensitive medical equipment. It is most commonly used in surgery sterilization processes. One of the drawbacks associated with ETO is the lengthy cycle time, expense, and potential hazard to staff and patients. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, acute exposure to ETO may result in irritation (e.g., eyes, gastrointestinal or respiratory tracts) and central nervous system depression. Chronic inhalation has been linked to the formation of cataracts, cognitive impairment, neurologic dysfunction, and disabling polyneuropathies. Occupational exposure in health care facilities has been linked to hemotologic changes and increased spontaneous abortions and various cancers. ETO is considered a known human carcinagen.
Additional Information: https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/sterilization/ethylene-oxide.html#:~:text=ETO%20is%20used%20in%20healthcare,be%20sterilized%20by%20steam%20sterilization.