Utility of lighted magnification, borescopes to inspect flexible endoscopes

Editor's Note

This study led by epidemiologist Cori L. Ofstead, MSPH, and associates, St Paul, Minnesota, found visible damage and residue or debris in 100% of 25 processed flexible endoscopes, using a new visual inspection program that included magnification and borescopes.

Fully processed endoscopes were examined twice during a 2-month period. Defects at baseline included:

• scratches (88%)
• channel shredding or peeling (80%)
• adhesive band disintegration (80%)
• residual soil or debris (white 84%, black 68%, brown 40%, yellow/green 36%, and orange/red 8%)
• retained fluid (52%)
• dents (40%).

Findings at the follow-up exam were similar. A total of 76% of the endoscopes required repair.

The researchers concluded that visual inspection with magnification and borescopes identified actionable defects that could interfere with processing effectiveness in 100% of the endoscopes studied.