Rigid endoscope sterilization: steam, plasma and tray handling

Rigid endoscope sterilization: is it autoclavable?

Whether an autoclavable endoscope can go into steam is decided by its design and by the manufacturer's instructions for use (IFU), not by general rules. Rigid telescopes with sealed metal bodies are often designed for steam, while cameras, cables, some light guides and flexible scopes may allow only certain methods. Never assume that a method that worked for one model suits another.

Keep the IFU for each device in the CSSD and note the permitted methods on the tray label. Richard Wolf states that its PANOVIEW ULTRA telescopes show hardly any transmission loss after 500 autoclave cycles, and that the ENDOCAM Logic 4K camera head is autoclavable with a replaceable cable. These are statements for those specific products; confirm them against the current IFU.

Endoscope sterilization methods compared

The common endoscope sterilization methods are steam, low-temperature hydrogen peroxide plasma, ethylene oxide and liquid chemical sterilants. Steam is the most widely used for heat-stable rigid instruments because it is fast, well validated and leaves no residues. Low-temperature methods are used for heat-sensitive items.

Plasma and other low-temperature processes have limits on lumen length, diameter and materials, so check that the telescope and any channels fall within the sterilizer's validated load. Why the choice matters is explained by the Spaulding classification: laparoscopes enter sterile tissue and therefore need sterilization, not only disinfection.

Laparoscope sterilization step by step

Sterilization begins with cleaning. Residual blood and protein shield microorganisms from steam, so manual cleaning, brushing of channels and rinsing must be done first; see rigid endoscope cleaning. Inspect the lens windows and the shaft after drying, and check the light post for debris.

Laparoscope sterilization then follows a repeatable routine.

• Dry thoroughly and inspect under good light.
• Place the telescope in its holder so that the distal lens does not touch other items.
• Wrap or load into a sterilization container with the correct filter and indicator.
• Run the validated cycle and record the load.
• Release, store dry and transport without impact.

Protective trays and containers

Most mechanical damage to rigid optics happens in trays, not in the sterilizer. Use trays with silicone holders that fix each telescope along the shaft, and avoid stacking heavy instruments on top. reda's container system offers full, 3/4 and 1/2 sizes plus dedicated optic containers, with wire baskets, silicone holders, and paper, textile and Teflon filters, which suits this workflow. See the reda sterilization containers for details.

For low-temperature processes, the container must be rated for the method: reda lists a plasma model for steam and low-temperature plasma. Always match the container to the sterilizer in your CSSD.

Common mistakes and quality control

Typical mistakes are sterilizing a dirty scope, using a cycle outside the IFU, overloading the tray, rapid cooling that stresses the optics and dropping the scope during unloading. A telescope that has been damaged may leak or show fogging or dark spots; the endoscope leak test and a visual image check help catch this early.

Keep records of cycles per device. Planning for the number of cycles a telescope has seen also supports repair and replacement decisions, and the guidance from standards such as ISO 17665 on steam sterilization can support your validation. Confirm which local regulations apply with the relevant UAE health authority.

Choosing equipment with sterilization in mind

When buying a tower, ask which components are autoclavable, which methods are permitted for each, and what the cycle limits are. Beckfinity can provide documentation for Richard Wolf optics and reda containers and advise on trays for your CSSD. Contact our team through the contact page for a consultation.