Assessing the ideal microwave duration for disinfection of sinus irrigation bottles-A quantitative study

Saline irrigation of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses has a recognised role in the management of chronic rhinosinusitis. However, bacterial recontamination of irrigation bottles through backflow from the sinonasal cavity is a concern in recurrent sinus cavity infections. While patients are encouraged to clean the irrigation bottles regularly, there remains significant concern that the use of contaminated bottles may perpetuate chronic rhinosinusitis. This study assesses the optimal microwave duration to achieve decontamination for each irrigation bottle component part (reservoir, tube and nozzle) using a standard, commercially available microwave. In addition, the irrigation fluid was also tested for contamination after each microwave cycle.