An apparatus and method for use in sterilizing a surgical instrument is provided. The apparatus includes a surgical instrument (10) that includes a housing (20) having a shaft (12) extending therefrom. The shaft includes one or more grooves defined therein that extends at least partially along the length thereof. The one or more grooves is configured to allow a sterilant passage therethrough. The apparatus also includes a jacket that encloses the shaft and allows the sterilant to travel along the one or more grooves.
