is storage of used sterile propofol at room temperature accompanied with bacterial contamination?

introduction lipid-based anesthetic agents such as propofol support rapid microbial growth at room temperature. many reports of systemic infections have been traced to the injection of contaminated propofol. the results of these studies are different according to the magnitude and the mechanisms of infections. the aim of this study was to evaluate the development of bacterial infection in syringes and vials containing propofol in relation to duration and the location of storage. methods in this experimental study, 2 vials of propofol (50 ml) were selected. under sterile conditions, 20 ml of each vial was aspirated into a sterile syringe and the others were kept in operation room. during one week, the four samples were obtained and aerobic and anaerobic culture were performed. results twenty-four and 48 hours after culture, we evaluated the cultures media for detection of bacteria and colony count. there was no evidence of bacterial growth in any of the samples. conclusions with the increasing use of lipid-based medications such as propofol, which support rapid bacterial growth at room temperature, strict aseptic techniques are essential during the handling to prevent extrinsic contamination. we remain concerned that anesthesiologists will endanger patients and assume increased medicolegal risk if they do not follow the manufacturer’s asa and cdc recommended procedure. keywords propofol, bacterial contamination, syringe, vial