The air and water nozzles are located at the distil tip of the flexible endoscope and come into contact with matter inside the cavity being examined. Pressing the air and /or water valves should clear matter from the tip of the scope and the air or water should then flow in a steady stream.

You can avoid damage to valves and nozzles by using only the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning device and recommended procedure on the endoscope parts. NEVER attempt to remove debris with a sharp object such as a needle.

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Fluid invasion requires immediate identification and repair by a trained technician

Fluid invasion is the leading cause of endoscope damage. It occurs when water and other fluids enter dry parts of the flexible scope. Fluid may enter through holes, tears, cuts or as a result of improper cleaning.

It is highly recommended that a leak test be performed on flexible scopes after every procedure and before cleaning and disinfection. A strict routine of leak testing will protect the patient and the functionality of the scope.

Signs of fluid invasion include:
> Image stains
> Foggy images
> Electrical malfunction

What to do it you detect a leak in the flexible endoscope
If a leak is detected, remove the endoscope from the testing water to prevent further damage. It is very important that the endoscope be immediately taken out of patient service until it is repaired by a qualified ISI technician.

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If the flexible endoscope does not freely angulate to the degree specified by the manufacturer, do not force angulation, as this may cause damage or break the angulation wires.

Angulation problems can be caused by over-torquing the bending portion of the scope. Fluid invasion can also damage the angulation system.

If you detect excessive “play” in the angulation system, consult with your ISI technician.

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Biopsy channel damage is often the result of forcing biopsy forceps or cleaning brushes through the channel. Forceps and cleaning brushes should pass easily through the channel and should never require force.

Biopsy channel damage often is the of using damaged forceps and brushes. Accessories should be inspected regularly for burrs that can easily tear the biopsy channel. Check for burrs and nicks by rubbing a gloved hand over all surfaces of the accessory.

Another result of biopsy channel damage can be fluid invasion.

Biopsy damage is best repaired by a highly trained and qualified ISI technician.

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A bending rubber can lead to fluid invasion and provide an
environment for pathogens.

Whatever the cause, damage to the bending rubber requires service and replacement by a trained and qualified ISI technician.

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If the scope displays decreased or a lack of suction, remove and clean the suction valve and this will often alleviate the problem. If the suction is still diminished, the flexible endoscope should be repaired by a trained and qualified ISI technician.

To avoid suction channel damage, do not kink the endoscope or wrap it into a tight radius. Suction channel can cause fluid invasion. Kinking and tightly wrapping the scope can also damage the fiber-optic bundles. Both fluid invasion and damage to the fiber-optic bundles should be repaired by a trained and qualified ISI technician.

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Damage to the suction or biopsy channel, bending rubber damage, angulation problems, fluid invasion and many air/water issues require service by a highly trained and qualified technician. To send your endoscope to ISI for repair, go to and print the ISI shipping form and include it with the scope. If you have questions on how prepare and package the scope, call ISI at 1-800-537-1945 for assistance.
 

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ISI Medical & O.R. Products provides specialty surgical tables, surgical accessories for hand and upper extremities and a complete line of instrument cleaning brushes and care solutions.  ISI Medical & O.R. Products is a division of Instrument Specialists, Inc.

1-800-537-1945 / FAX (830) 249-9433 / 32390 IH-10 Boerne, TX 78006-9214

Copyright © 2007 Instrument Specialists, Inc. All rights reserved.