Researchers evaluated flexible endoscope damage and contamination levels at baseline and 2 months later. Postcleaning test results exceeded benchmarks for all gastroscopes and no colonoscopes. Microbial growth was found in samples from 47% of fully reprocessed endoscopes at baseline and 60% at follow-up. Borescope examinations identified scratches, discoloration, debris, and fluid inside endoscopes. Irregularities changed over time. Study evaluations allowed damaged and contaminated endoscopes to be identified and re-reprocessed or sent for repairs.
Keywords: Adenosine triphosphate; Colonoscope; Epidemiology; Gastroscope; Microbial cultures; Reprocessing.
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