What sterilization process should be used for petroleum gauze requested by a surgeon?

For petroleum gauze, dry heat sterilization is the appropriate choice due to the material's composition. Dry heat sterilization utilizes high temperatures to kill microorganisms and is particularly effective for items that cannot withstand the moisture and temperature of steam sterilization. As petroleum products can break down or become compromised when exposed to moisture, the dry heat method ensures that the integrity of the gauze is maintained while effectively sterilizing it.

This method is capable of achieving the necessary sterilization temperatures over an extended period, allowing for the thorough eradication of pathogens without the risk of damaging the gauze compared to other sterilization methods that may involve moisture or aggressive gaseous agents. Furthermore, materials that are oily or have a grease-based composition are best suited for dry heat, aligning perfectly with the characteristics of petroleum gauze.