Results of a clinical study presented Thursday, Feb. 4 at the annual
Triological Society meetings in Orlando, Fla., suggest a sterile barrier
sheath system has distinct advantages over germicidal immersion
processes used to prevent contamination of fiberoptic
nasopharyngolaryngoscopes (flexible ENT scopes). Flexible ENT scopes are
used by otolaryngologists to examine the nose and throat area for
various disorders such as dysphagia, reflux disease, snoring, and
chronic sinusitis.
“The EndoSheath System is designed to allow physicians to cover the
insertion tube of the flexible ENT scope with a sterile microbial
barrier when performing endoscopy procedures in the clinic and office
environments”
Microbial study results show that sterile disposable sheaths, when used
with endoscopes, are as effective as using a liquid germicidal system
for disinfecting scopes between patient procedures and provide
protection against cross-contamination equivalent to immersion in
germicidal solutions.
Study authors Alphi Elackattu, MD; Mary Zoccoli, MD; Jeffrey H. Spiegel,
MD, FACS; and Kenneth M. Grundfast, MD, FACS, all from Boston University
School of Medicine, note in their conclusion that through the use of
sterile disposable sheaths, physicians will be able to prevent
cross-contamination. Using the individually packaged disposable sterile
sheaths has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as an
acceptable alternative to high level disinfection following endoscope
use.
The Medtronic Slide-On™ EndoSheath® System is a sterile, disposable
cover for flexible endoscopes that provides a latex-free barrier between
the scope and the patient. The system is designed to reduce patient
contact with organic debris and staff exposure to hazardous chemicals.
The study authors noted that the system is an alternative to
time-intensive chemical reprocessing, allows for quick scope turnaround
and helps physicians maximize time treating patients.
“The EndoSheath System is designed to allow physicians to cover the
insertion tube of the flexible ENT scope with a sterile microbial
barrier when performing endoscopy procedures in the clinic and office
environments,” said Janis Saunier, marketing director for the ENT
division at Medtronic. “We believe the use of a sterile sheath on a
nasopharyngoscope, combined with enzymatic detergent cleaning and
disinfection with 70 percent alcohol, can provide a reliably
decontaminated, patient-ready instrument, providing an acceptable
alternative to high-level disinfection of endoscopes.”