A-A-54384 Points, Endodontic, Paper, SterileThis Commercial Item Description covers sterile, absorbent, paper points suitable for use during endodontic procedures.

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A-A-54384

Size	Largest diameter of Distal End (Inches)	Smallest diameter of Operative End	Length � 1/16 (Inches)
XXF	0.023 � 0.004	0.007 � 0.004	1
XF	0.028 � 0.004	0.009 � 0.004	1
F	0.033 � 0.004	0.012 � 0.004	1
M	0.038 � 0.005	0.016 � 0.005	1
C	0.045 � 0.008	0.019 � 0.006	1-1/8
XC	0.055 � 0.011	0.022 � 0.006	1-1/8

The sterile points shall be packaged in sealed cards which are divided into individual cells to preserve sterility. Each cell shall contain not more than 5 sterile paper points. Packaging shall be such that points may be used in multiples of 5 without impairing the sterility of points in other cells. Each package shall contain points of one size only, in accordance with the applicable NSN (see notes). There shall be no holes, channels or tears opening into any cell.

Physical properties. The sterile points shall be firm and stiff enough to permit insertion into a cavity or pulp canal without collapsing or breaking. The points shall retain their form (with no signs of disintegration) after having remained completely immersed in 100 � 2�F water for 15 minutes.

A solution of Mercurochrome shall rise to a height of not less than the height shown in the table below when the narrowest end of the point is inserted to a depth of 1 mm in an aqueous solution of 2% Mercurochrome.

Point Size	Minimum Stain Height in mm
XXF	2.5
XF	3.5
F	4.0
M	5.0
C	6.0
XC	6.0

The point shall remain in the solution for 10 seconds before it is removed, and the height of Mercurochrome absorption measured. A minimum of 5 points from each lot or batch number shall be subjected to this procedure and the results averaged.

Instructions. Each unit of issue shall include adequate and accurate instructions for opening the immediate container while maintaining the maximum possible sterility.