Surgical Instrument Sterilization: Why Iodine Isn't Used

Tincture of iodine is not generally used for cleaning surgical instruments because it is not considered to be a sterilizing agent. While iodine has some antimicrobial properties, it is not effective against all types of microorganisms, and it does not provide the level of sterilization required for surgical instruments.

To sterilize surgical instruments, a more robust method such as steam sterilization or chemical sterilization is typically used.