Endoscope

Definition

An endoscope is a medical device consisting of a long, thin, flexible or rigid tube with a light and camera used to examine the interior of a hollow organ or cavity. It is commonly used for minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Endoscopes must be rigorously sterilized to prevent microbial contamination.
2. They are often used in procedures like gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and bronchoscopy.
3. Proper cleaning involves both manual cleaning and high-level disinfection or sterilization methods.
4. Microbial biofilms can form on endoscopes if not adequately cleaned, leading to infections.
5. Sterilization methods for endoscopes include autoclaving, ethylene oxide gas, and liquid chemical sterilants.

Review Questions

• Why is it critical to sterilize an endoscope before use?
• What types of procedures commonly utilize endoscopes?
• Describe the potential consequences of improper endoscope cleaning.

Related terms

Autoclave:

A machine that uses steam under pressure to sterilize medical equipment.

Biofilm:

A complex aggregation of microorganisms growing on a solid substrate.

Sterilization:

The process of eliminating all forms of microbial life from an object or surface.