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Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your 3M equine video endoscope. This guide provides seven essential tips to help you take care of your endoscopes and ancillary equipment effectively.
ALWAYS LEAK TEST YOUR ENDOSCOPES PRIOR TO ANY SOAKING, SCRUBBING OR IMMERSION IN FLUID OF ANY KIND!
1. Routine Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential for the proper functioning of your 3M equine video endoscope. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use recommended cleaning agents to avoid damage. As part of the SGNA guidelines for proper endoscopy reprocessing, it is imperative to initiate the cleaning process immediately after use. This helps to reduce the risk of biofilm formation, which can be extremely difficult to remove.
An effective cleaning process involves multiple steps, including manual cleaning of the scope’s exterior, enzymatic detergent wash, and manual brushing of your endoscope’s instrument channel. Manual cleaning ensures that large debris is physically removed, while enzymatic washing helps in the breakdown of bio-burden material. Automated reprocessors, designed specifically for endoscopes, handle the more intricate aspects of cleaning and often include a completely automated cycle. In both cases your endoscope should soak for the minimum time provided on the chemical’s label for high-level disinfection It’s crucial to follow each step meticulously to ensure your equipment is free from any bio-hazard that may infect other horses in your care. The gastroscope goes right by the guttural pouch, cross-contamination of the infection can occur with a 3M scope, so proper disinfection is vital even on a GI scope. Especially where highly transmissible disease is endemic. Some approved high-level disinfectants are branded as Cidex OPA, Rapicide OPA, Metricide OPA+ and Revital-ox among others. Your manufacturer or distributor can provide a detailed cleaning guide.
2. Proper Storage
Store your endoscope in a controlled environment. Use vertical storage for the endoscopes in a cabinet or secured to the wall. This promotes proper drainage and drying the endoscope both inside and out. With the length of the 3M and beyond endoscopes, it is suggested to coil your gastroscopes with velcro style wire binders and a proper tip protector while it is in storage. Use of the carrying case for storage is not advised by the manufacturer of any brand. The American Association of Equine Veterinary Technicians & Assistants emphasizes the importance of a clean and organized storage area to minimize the risks associated with improper storage conditions. For instance, make sure the storage area has the right humidity and temperature settings to prevent damage to the optical components and the insertion tube.
An often overlooked aspect of storage is ensuring the endoscope is not stored with sharp or heavy objects that could cause physical damage. Utilize the protective caps to guard the delicate lenses and ports. Proper storage is a key component to video endoscope longevity.
3. Scheduled Maintenance
Regular inspections can help identify and address any potential issues before they become significant problems. Schedule periodic checks by qualified technicians. The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA) is a professional organization that recommends routine endoscope inspections as part of a comprehensive maintenance program. Ensuring that all connectors, buttons, and seals are functioning correctly can prevent catastrophic failures during procedures.
Inspection should not only be visual but also functional. Simple tests, such as leak testing, can be incredibly revealing. By identifying leaks early, you can prevent fluid intrusion, which could damage the internal components. This step should be performed at a minimum of every day the endoscopes are used. This frequency increases when using a glass laser fiber in an airway scope, for example. Remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure; these periodic checks can significantly extend the life of your equipment. Fluid Invasion repairs are not covered under warranty or most standard service agreements. Additionally, proper care for the hardware is also important for the life of any endoscope you use. Using a diluted mixture of sterile water and 70 or 90 Iso Alcohol, spray a lint free cloth and wipe down the exteriors of your processor, light source, monitors, carts, etc.
4. Handle with Care
Handle your endoscope with care to avoid physical damage. Avoid manually angulating the bending section or twisting the insertion tube outside of a procedure and be mindful of the optical components. Mishandling can lead to costly repairs and shorter equipment lifespan. When inserting or withdrawing the endoscope, ensure a smooth and controlled motion to prevent unnecessary stress on the insertion tube. Equine gastroscopy requires a minimum of 4 hands on-deck.
Proper in-service training from a qualified professional with experience in handling endoscopes is essential to avoiding costly repairs. A standardized protocol should be enforced with any staff member handling the endoscope.
5. Regular Calibration
Ensure your endoscope is regularly calibrated to maintain accuracy. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for calibration procedures. Calibration is crucial for maintaining the endoscope’s imaging performance and measurement accuracy. Even minor deviations can have significant impacts on diagnostic capabilities.
Calibration should be performed by trained technicians who understand the intricacies of the equipment. Regular calibration ensures that the optical system remains in top working condition, providing clear and precise images crucial for diagnosis and treatment. In addition to manufacturer guidelines, consider implementing a local calibration schedule to address any specific needs or frequent usage patterns in your practice. This can be done during any minor repair.
6. Using Compatible Accessories
Use only accessories and attachments that are compatible with your 3M endoscope. This will prevent damage and ensure the integrity of the equipment. The use of non-compatible accessories can lead to mechanical and functional incompatibilities, potentially damaging both the endoscope and the accessory. Specifically the accessories used in the instrument channel of most endoscopes. Proper size and handling prevents unnecessary repairs.
Always source accessories from reliable suppliers and verify their compatibility with your specific endoscope model.
7. Following Manufacturer’s Instructions
Adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines is paramount for maintaining your endoscope. Follow the recommended practices for usage, cleaning, and maintenance procedures. Each manufacturer provides detailed guides tailored to their specific models, which are invaluable for ensuring the longevity of your equipment.
Ignoring these guidelines can lead to avoidable wear and tear, or even voiding the warranty. The AAEVT and SGNA both underscore the importance of compliance with manufacturer recommendations to maintain operational safety and device efficiency. Make sure to keep the manuals easily accessible to your veterinary team, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding best practices.
In short, read your owner’s manual for an in-depth understanding of your endoscope and it’s associated hardware.
