Sterilization of blowfly eggs: In the culture of surgical maggots for use in the treatment of pyogenic infections

Abstract

The separation and sterilization of blowfly eggs are significant factors in the culture of sterile maggots for use in the treatment of suppurative infections. Experiments were conducted on the separation of eggs and a method was devised by which they can be separated rapidly and without loss or injury. The method consists of briefly softening the egg clumps between layers of wet cloth and then separating them by spreading with a spatula. The technique involved in egg sterilization is described. Agglutination of eggs caused by certain disinfectants is discussed, and a means for its prevention given. Nine disinfecting combinations were tested on eggs in regard to sterility and mortality caused. A 5 per cent solution of formalin plus 1 per cent sodium hydroxide when used for five minutes was found to give the most satisfactory results from all viewpoints. Several solutions were tested against resistant spores and results showed the difficulty of finding disinfectants that would destroy the spores without greatly reducing the viability of the eggs. The age of eggs best adapted to sterilization varies with the disinfectant used. In contrast with several agents in common use, the one recommended in this article permitted a good hatch when used with freshly laid eggs. A suggested procedure for sterilizing eggs is given, which will permit disinfection the same day the eggs are laid, thereby reducing the time involved and lowering the cost of production.