Flexible endoscopes are medical devices that require many precautions to be taken during and between uses.
A lack of maintenance can significantly reduce their lifespan of use but above all compromise patient safety. Let’s take stock of these risks and how to avoid them, for more sustainable use of your devices!
Image quality degradation
Flexible endoscopes use complex optical components: high definition camera, light lenses... Lack of maintenance can lead to accumulation of dust, biological residues or of decontaminating products on the lenses, which can affect image quality.
Reduced flexibility and maneuverability
Flexible endoscopes have moving and flexible parts, such as the distal sheath or insertion tube. Natural wear and tear can reduce the flexibility of the endoscope over time.
Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure that the device retains its maneuverability, which is crucial for effective and safe use.
Risk of cross infection
Improper cleaning can lead to persistent presence of bacteria in the endoscope, thereby increasing the risk of cross infection between patients.
This risk is particularly critical in medical environments, where hygiene is essential.
Patient safety risks
Any malfunction of the endoscope may result in complications during medical procedures. Preventive maintenance can help identify and correct potential problems before they become patient safety risks.
Higher repair costs
Lack of regular maintenance can lead to progressive deterioration of your endoscope, which may require more expensive repairs in the long run.
Annual servicing and preventative maintenance can help extend life span of the endoscope and reduce repair and downtime costs.
Impact on the organization of your establishment
Lack of regular maintenance or neglected maintenance can lead to unforeseen breakdowns and consequently delays in medical procedures, disrupting the scheduling of endoscopy services.
In summary
Regular maintenance and preventive maintenance for your flexible endoscope allow you to ensure optimal performance, minimize risks to your safety and that of the patient, and above all extend its useful life.
It is also important to ensure that the staff be made aware to the risks mentioned above and be informed of the maintenance, cleaning, disinfection protocols or even of proper storage.
For proper and rigorous maintenance, follow the manufacturer's recommendations or call on an experienced service provider.
At Codeo Medical, our technicians have a strong over 20 years of experience in endoscope maintenance and expertise. They provide you with quality care and maintenance for your flexible endoscopes .
