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All ancillary equipment used during endoscopic procedures, unless single-use, must be decontaminated both prior to and after use. With the increasing number of therapeutic procedures being carried out, mucosa is being breached more frequently, increasing the potential for transmission of infection. |
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Reprocessing Reusable EndoTherapy Devices
Cleaning - The use of a detergent solution, as the first stage in accessory reprocessing, yields the same benefits as for endoscopes - removing the majority of debris prior to disinfection and/or sterilisation. For maximum effectiveness, cleaning should be carried out immediately after use.
The item should be disassembled, if appropriate, in accordance with its instructions for use, and immersed in soapy water, with all lumens being flushed through and then brushed externally using a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying particular attention to the cups of biopsy forceps.
Ultrasonic cleaning is well-accepted as the only way of processing intricate EndoTherapy devices, not only to prolong their working life, but also to ensure effective decontamination.
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Ultrasonic cleaning works by a process called ’cavitation’, in which microscopic bubbles constantly form throughout the solution and then burst, releasing energy as they do so. It is this release of energy that dislodges debris from surfaces.
It is essential that all lumes are pre-filled with fluid prior to ultrasonic cleaning, to aid distribution of the ultrasonic action throughout the accessory. |
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When added to water, Olympus Ultrasonic Cleaning Solution (UCS II) helps break down surface tension and assists the cleaning process.
Olympus KeyMed designed and manufactures the Olympus Endosonic ultrasonic cleaner, incorporating specific design features for effective and thorough cleaning of EndoTherapy devices. Lumens should be flushed and the external surfaces rinsed in running water after ultrasonic cleaning, to ensure any loose debris is removed prior to disinfection/sterilisation.
Lubrication - The highly efficient cleaning nature of ultrasonics results in any lubrication being removed from the accessories during the cleaning process. To relubricate, an appropriate oil should be applied to both the distal and proximal enmds of the operating mechanism to maintain proper functionality.
A low viscosity oil, such as Olympus A0273 lubricant, should be used to allow adequate penetration of the operating mechanism.
Disinfection - The lumens of accessories, as well as the external surfaces, must have adequate contact time with disinfectant. Luer connectors are provided on items with lumens to allow disinfectant to be flushed through internal channels.
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Sterilisation - With advances in accessory design, sterilisation by autoclaving is now considered ’best practice’, and the vast majority of Olympus reusable EndoTherapy devices are now capable of repeated steam sterilisation up to a maximum of 137°C. |
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To download a copy of the Olympus EndoTherapy Cleaning Cycle instruction card, please click here. | |
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Tips to Help Prevent Damage to EndoTherapy Devices
- Always inspect accessories before use for any evidence of damage or irregularity - remove from use if damage is suspected.
- Never coil accessories to a diameter of less than 150mm, as this will damage the insertion portion. Attempted operation of a coiled accessory may also cause damage.
- Keep all accessories as straight as possible during to prevent kinking of the sheath.
- During insertion, always hold the sheath close to the biopsy port and insert in small sections of no more than 50mm at a time.
- Following use, immediately place the item in warm soapy water, to assist removal of debris during subsequent cleaning, otherwise ’sluggish’ operation may result, leading to premature replacement.
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- Always follow the reprocessing instructions provided with the EndoTherapy item.
- Ultrasonic cleaning is an essential part of the decontamination process, as it removes debris from around the inner operating wire, so that movement will not become restricted.
- Olympus A0273 lubricating oil will help maintain smooth operation.
- Never use excessive force to operate accessories, as this may damage the operating wire.
- Placing heavy objects on top of flexible accessories may damage them and possibly result in the handle becoming detached from the operating wire.
- Avoid crushing packaged instruments by surrounding objects during autoclaving or storage.
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