A study out of Boston University School of Medicine, presented last week at the annual Triological Society meeting, has looked into the effectiveness of Medtronic‘s Slide-On Sensory Sheath as an alternative to germicidal immersion for flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopes in between procedures. The condom-like device is wrapped over the fiber optic cable to prevent ENT scopes from getting dirty in the first place. The scope still requires an “enzymatic detergent cleaning and disinfection with 70 percent alcohol” when switching between patients, but the Slide-On should still save time during busy use of the scope.
From a Medtronic statement:
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.
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.
Press release: Study Suggests Slide-On Endosheath System Provides Several Advantages Over Traditional Germicidal Immersion …
Product page: Slide-On™ Sensory Sheath …
Flashbacks: Slide-On™ Sensory Sheath for ENT