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Veterinary Endoscope Care and Maintenance: Best Practices for Longevity and Reliability
April 30, 2025
Endoscopes are an invaluable tool in a medical or veterinary practice. They provide minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment options, save time and enhance procedural precision. Given their frequent use, these instruments are often considered the workhorses of a practice. However, when an endoscope becomes damaged or inoperable, it can lead to significant downtime. If a backup scope is unavailable, the disruption can affect patient care and workflow efficiency. To prevent unnecessary downtime and costly repairs, proper maintenance and handling are crucial.
Routine Cleaning and Care
Regular care and maintenance play a vital role in extending the lifespan of an endoscope. Thorough cleaning after every use helps prevent cross-contamination and also reduces the buildup of biofilm, which can lead to blockages and eventual mechanical failure.
Pre-Cleaning Steps
- After each use, wipe down the surface with a damp cloth or gauze sponge to remove residue
- Flush the air / water channel for one minute
- Suction 100 cc of clean tap water through the suction channel
Leak Testing
- Attach the leak tester and watertight cap to the video connector
- Pressurize to 160 mmHg; if pressure does not drop more than 10 mmHg, the scope is watertight and safe for immersion
- Depressurize before removing the leak tester (keep the watertight cap in place)
Cleaning Protocol
External
- Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth (or soft-bristle brush)
- Remove the biopsy port cover, as well as the blue and red buttons
- Place the endoscope in soapy water (tap water is ok) and manually clean all surfaces, including the buttons and biopsy port cover (move these pieces with the endoscope through the remaining process)
Internal
- Pass the flexible channel cleaning brush through the biopsy port until it exits the distal tip of the endoscope
- Pass the flexible channel cleaning brush through the suction channels (through the hole left by removing the suction button) until it exits at the suction tube connector (Christmas tree adapter) on the block of the umbilical – then at an angle through the same hole, pointing towards the distal end of the scope until it exits the biopsy channel
- Cover the water bottle connection with the appropriate cap
- Attach the air, water and suction plug
- Connect the channel flushing tube to the suction tube connector (Christmas tree adapter)
- Flush copiously with soapy water
- Repeat with tap water to remove soap residue (keep the flushing tubing connected throughout the remaining steps)
Enzyme Solution Soak
- Prepare the solution according to the manufacturer instructions
- Submerge and flush the endoscope with the solution (at least 3 full syringes)
- Soak for the recommended time (approximately 20 minutes)
- Remove and rinse thoroughly with tap water
Disinfectant Solution Soak
- Prepare the disinfectant solution as directed
- Submerge and flush the endoscope with the solution (at least 3 full syringes)
- Soak for 20 minutes
- Remove and rinse thoroughly with tap water
Final Rinse and Drying
- Rinse and flush thoroughly with distilled water
- Dry the exterior with a soft cloth
- Remove flushing tubing, air, water and suction plug and water bottle connector plug
- With the blue and red buttons removed, hang the endoscope in a well-ventilated area to allow residual water to drain and evaporate
- Do not store the endoscope in a closed case, as trapped moisture can encourage bacterial growth
A detailed step-by-step guide on cleaning procedures.
Handling and Storage Best Practices
Even with meticulous cleaning, improper handling can lead to premature wear and damage. Small mishaps can result in costly repairs, making careful storage and use essential.
Proper Storage Guidelines
- Hang the endoscope, ensuring the distal end does not touch the floor
- Store in a location where it is protected from accidental impact
- If you use an endoscope cabinet, ensure proper ventilation
- Do not store in the carrying case which is only used for transport
- Avoid storing endoscopes with sharp accessories, as this may cause punctures or cuts
Preventing Physical Damage
- When handling the scope outside the patient, use one hand to hold the control body and the other to hold the distal tip
- Avoid dropping or striking the distal end, as the lens may crack
- During procedures, avoid any undue pressure on the shaft, which can cause buckling
- If resistance is felt during angulation, do not force - move the scope in or out and try again
- Never manipulate the bending section with your hands, only use control knobs
- Straighten the bending section before inserting accessories to prevent punctures in the instrument channel
- Advance accessories with short strokes to detect resistance early and avoid damage
- Only use undamaged accessories, as broken or rough edges can scratch or puncture internal channels
- Do not ship an endoscope with a water-resistant cap installed, as changing air pressure in flight can rupture internal parts, causing leaks
By adhering to these maintenance and handling guidelines, you can significantly extend the longevity of your endoscope, ensuring it remains a reliable tool in your practice. Consistent care and attention to detail will minimize downtime, reduce repair costs and maintain optimal performance for years to come.
Routine Cleaning Checklist
To support you in properly maintaining your endoscopes, we’ve created a Routine Cleaning Checklist that guides you through each step of the process. You’re welcome to download and print it for easy reference during your next cleaning.
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