Commonly Used Flexible Endoscopes in OR and Clinical Procedures as RMD Reprocessing in SPD

Martin Li, MA, CRCST, CER, CIS, CHL

Flexible endoscopes are critical tools in modern healthcare, particularly in the operating room (OR) and clinic settings, where they offer non-invasive or minimally invasive solutions for diagnostics and treatment. These devices play a key role in enhancing patient safety and improving medical outcomes through precision procedures.

One frequently used flexible endoscope is the gastroscope, essential for examining the upper gastrointestinal tract. This device is utilized in diagnosing conditions such as ulcers, performing biopsies, and removing foreign objects from the stomach and esophagus. These procedures offer minimally invasive options that improve patient recovery and reduce the risks associated with open surgeries [1].

Another vital tool is the colonoscope, primarily employed in colonoscopy procedures. This endoscope is crucial for detecting and treating issues within the large intestine and rectum, such as colorectal cancer and polyps. Early diagnosis using colonoscopy has proven to be a game-changer in reducing cancer-related mortality rates [3].

Additionally, bronchoscopes are widely used in pulmonology to visualize the airways and lungs, allowing physicians to diagnose conditions such as lung cancer, infections, and blockages. Bronchoscopes are integral to both diagnostic and therapeutic interventions [2].

Proper reprocessing of these flexible endoscopes is essential for patient safety and infection control. Endoscope reprocessing involves thorough cleaning, disinfection, and sometimes sterilization, particularly in sensitive procedures like those in gastrointestinal and respiratory care [4]. This meticulous process helps prevent the transmission of infections, ensuring that these devices can be safely reused in clinical settings [5].

In conclusion, flexible endoscopes such as gastroscopes, colonoscopes, and bronchoscopes are indispensable in both OR and clinic procedures. Their careful reprocessing in sterile processing departments (SPD) ensures the highest standards of patient care and safety.

For detailed references, please click the following links:

1. steris.com - Guide to Sterilization of Flexible Endoscopes in Healthcare
2. aornjournal.onlinelibrary.wiley.com - Guidelines in Practice: Processing Flexible Endoscopes
3. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov - Gastrointestinal Flexible Endoscopes: Infection Control
4. aornguidelines.org - Flexible Endoscopes
5. aorn.org - How to Care for Your Flexible Endoscopes in 6 Easy Steps