Medtronic is reporting that investigators from the Center for Quality and Productivity Improvement at University of Wisconsin-Madison have conducted a study to determine the efficacy of a sterile barrier sheath system for ENT endoscopes, called Slide-On™ Sensory Sheath. In a study of 100 patients, “EndoSheath® system, in combination with thorough post-use enzymatic detergent cleaning followed by a 70% ethanol wipe, provided a patient ready instrument equivalent to high-level disinfection,” reports Carla J. Alvarado, Ph.D., the lead researcher on the study.
Details about the device:
The Sensory Sheath design allows for air pulse delivery through a sterile sheath. The technology enables the practitioner to use their conventional, visual-only ENT scopes that they already have in the office, to perform Sensory Testing and/or FEESST procedures [Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing with Sensory Testing –ed.]. The sheath simply slides onto the conventional ENT scope prior to the procedure and is easily removed and discarded when the procedure is finished.
The FEESST exam is an alternative to the modified barium swallow studies. FEESST is the first exam that allows direct evaluation of the sensory and motor aspects of swallowing. FEESST enables the practitioner to accurately diagnose, treat and manage patients with swallowing disorders with an emphasis on decreasing the risk of choking, coughing, and/or aspirating food and liquids which can lead to aspiration pneumonia. The sensory portion of the exam works by endoscopically directing air pulses in the larynx to elicit an airway protective reflex. The practitioner then assesses which areas of the larynx are sensory impaired.
With the Sensory Sheath, practitioners can perform FEESST without incurring the cost of purchasing a procedure-specific scope. By utilizing the Sensory Sheath, practitioners can avoid complex reprocessing procedures, leading to reduced maintenance/repair costs and increased staff productivity. Equipment turnaround time, a staple of the EndoSheath Technology, is unparalleled. The Sensory Sheath will enhance clinical and procedural productivity allowing the ability to do more procedures throughout the day.
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Press release: Study Suggests Slide-On® EndoSheath® System Provides a Sterile, Efficient Alternative to High-Level Disinfection of Flexible Endoscopes …