A device and method for cleaning and sterilizing tubular structures particularly, long, narrow tubular structures such as lumens of a medical device such as an endoscope by reversing the flow of fluid in interconnected tubular structures. The device comprises a first and second valve in fluid communication with a first and second tubular structure. The valves selectively switch between a first and second position causing a first and second flow path within the tubular structures, at least a part of the second flow path opposite the first flow path.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional application No. 60/102,663, filed Oct. 1, 1998; U.S. Provisional application No. 60/102,664, filed Oct. 1, 1998; and U.S. Provisional application No. 60/117,401 filed Jan. 27, 1999.
In order to check endoscope channels, a predetermined quantity of liquid is led, at a predetermined pressure, through the channel that is to be checked, and the period of time for this is measured and evaluated. The predetermined quantity of liquid is determined via the volume of a liquid container whose outlet is capable of being connected to the channel that is to be checked. A compressed air source subjects the liquid in the container to a predetermined pressure. A sensor registers whether the liquid level in the container has dropped below a predefined value. A control unit measures the period of time within which the predetermined volume of liquid has flowed through the channel that is to be checked.
A system for reprocessing flexible endoscopes having lumen therein. The reprocessing system deploys steam to disinfect and/or sterilize the endoscopes, and designs, components, and methods for reducing or balancing the reprocessing cycle time and the effects of thermal expansion and contraction on the endoscopes.
A method detects proper connection of fixtures to one or more channels in an endoscope during a cleaning or disinfection procedure. The endoscope has a first opening into one of its channels. The method includes the steps of placing the endoscope at the first opening in a liquid while leaving a gas within the channel, drawing a vacuum on the gas through a second opening into the channel and thereby drawing some of the liquid into the channel, and detecting for air leaking into the channel.
A device and method for cleaning and sterilizing tubular structures particularly, long, narrow tubular structures such as lumens of a medical device such as an endoscope by reversing the flow of fluid in interconnected tubular structures. The device comprises a first and second valve in fluid communication with a first and second tubular structure. The valves selectively switch between a first and second position causing a first and second flow path within the tubular structures, at least a part of the second flow path opposite the first flow path.
