JP2005040170A - Method of sterilizing endoscope with high-temperature, high-pressure steam - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method of sterilizing an endoscope with high-temperature, high-pressure steam to quickly and securely sterilize the inside of a conduit built in the endoscope. <P>SOLUTION: The endoscope 2 is stored in a chamber 52 of a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization device to be sterilized with high-temperature, high-pressure steam. In the sterilization, steam can penetrate into the conduit 6 as by a conventional method, and also into a space 47 on the outside of the conduit 56 by a ventilation part 37. Accordingly, the endoscope can be sterilized from both sides of the conduit 56, though sterilized only in the inside of the conduit 56 by the conventional method, and the sterilization can be carried out in a short period of time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an endoscope high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization method for sterilizing an endoscope with high-temperature high-pressure steam.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Endoscopes that can be used for observing deep parts in body cavities by inserting into body cavities, etc., and performing treatment treatments by using treatment tools as needed, have come to be widely used in the medical field. .
In the case of a medical endoscope, it is indispensable to surely disinfect and sterilize the used endoscope in order to prevent infections and the like.
[0003]
Recently, when disinfecting and sterilizing, autoclave sterilization (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization), which does not involve complicated work, can be used immediately after sterilization, and is advantageous in terms of running cost, is the mainstream sterilization method for endoscope equipment. It is becoming.
For example, in the conventional example of Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-51323, a sterilization method for preventing damage to the outer skin of the endoscope due to a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the endoscope is disclosed when the endoscope is sterilized at high temperature and high pressure steam. Has been.
[0004]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2000-51323 A
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the above-described conventional example, there is no particular description regarding quick and reliable sterilization in an elongated pipe line that is built into an endoscope and whose end is open to the outside of the endoscope.
[0006]
(Object of invention)
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described points, and a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization method for an endoscope capable of performing sterilization in a duct built in an endoscope more quickly and reliably than before. The purpose is to provide.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
An endoscope having one end opened to the outside of the endoscope at the distal end of the insertion portion, the other end opened to the outside of the endoscope at a portion other than the insertion portion, and at least one conduit for allowing fluid or the like to pass therethrough In the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization processing method of the endoscope that sterilizes the mirror with high-temperature high-pressure steam,
For an endoscope having communication means that selectively communicates between a space portion that is communicated with the outside of the duct and is covered and sealed with an endoscope skin portion and the exterior of the endoscope,
The space means is communicated with the exterior of the endoscope by the communicating means, and after the space and the exterior of the endoscope are once in a negative pressure state, steam is put into the space and the exterior of the endoscope, A process of sterilizing the endoscope at high temperature and high pressure steam,
In addition to the inner pipe line of the endoscope, the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization treatment is performed from the outside of the pipe line that flows in from the space, so that sterilization can be performed quickly even in the case of an elongated pipe line. It is possible to carry out it reliably and reliably.
[0008]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
(First embodiment)
1 to 8 relate to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1 shows an overall configuration of an endoscope apparatus according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 2 shows that the endoscope is housed in a tray. 3 shows the configuration of the electrical connector section, FIG. 4 shows the endoscope conduit system, FIG. 5 shows the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer, and FIG. 6 shows the sterilization process by the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer. FIG. 7 shows processing steps of reprocessing after endoscopy, and FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the sterilization action according to this embodiment in comparison with a conventional example by a schematic diagram of an endoscope. is there.
[0009]
As shown in FIG. 1, an endoscope apparatus 1 that performs an endoscopic examination includes an endoscope 2 that includes an imaging unit, and a light guide that is detachably connected to the endoscope 2 and provided in the endoscope 2. A light source device 3 for supplying illumination light to the endoscope, a video processor 5 connected to the endoscope 2 via a signal cable 4 for controlling the imaging means of the endoscope 2 and processing signals obtained from the imaging means. The monitor 6 displays a video corresponding to the subject image output from the processor 5.
[0010]
This endoscope 2 has resistance to high-temperature and high-pressure steam so that it can be sterilized with high-temperature and high-pressure steam after being used for endoscopy such as observation and treatment after being cleaned. It is composed of members. In addition, the endoscope 2 is actively (forcedly) heated and pressurized at a space 47 inside the exterior member (outer skin portion) such as the insertion portion 7 and the operation portion 8 of the endoscope 2 as described later. Since the structure is such that the sterilization process is performed by injecting steam, one of the features is that the internal signal lines and the like are also composed of members having resistance to high-temperature and high-pressure steam.
[0011]
The endoscope 2 has an elongated insertion portion 7 having flexibility, an operation portion 8 connected to the proximal end side of the insertion portion 7, and a flexible connection extending from a side portion of the operation portion 8. A cord (universal cord) 9, a connector portion 10 provided at an end portion of the connecting cord 9 and detachably connected to the light source device 3, and provided on a side portion of the connector portion 10 and detachable from the processor 5 The connector 4a at the end of the signal cable 4 to be connected to the electric connector 11 is detachably connectable.
The electrical connector portion 11 is provided with a ventilation portion 37 shown in FIG. 3 that communicates the inside and the outside of the endoscope 2.
[0012]
The connecting portion between the insertion portion 7 and the operation portion 8 is provided with an insertion portion side anti-folding member 12 having an elastic member for preventing a sudden bending of the connection portion. A similar connector portion side bending prevention member 14 is provided at a connection portion between the operation portion side bending prevention member 13 and the connecting cord 9 and the connector portion 10.
[0013]
The insertion portion 7 is provided with a flexible flexible tube portion 15 having flexibility, a bending portion 16 which is provided on the distal end side of the flexible tube portion 15 and can be bent by the operation of the operation portion 8, and is provided at the distal end. It is composed of a tip portion 17 provided with an observation optical system, an illumination optical system, and the like.
[0014]
An air supply / water supply nozzle 18 for ejecting a cleaning liquid or gas toward the optical member on the outer surface of the observation optical system (not shown) by an air supply operation and a water supply operation and an insertion portion 7 are disposed at the distal end portion 17. A suction port which is an opening on the distal end side of a treatment tool channel (not shown) for inserting the treatment tool or sucking the liquid in the body cavity is provided.
Further, the tip portion 17 is provided with a liquid supply port for ejecting a liquid that is opened toward the observation object.
[0015]
The connector unit 10 includes a gas supply base 21 that is detachably connected to a gas supply source (not shown) built in the light source device 3, and a water supply tank pressure base that is detachably connected to a water supply tank 22 that is a liquid supply source. 23 and a liquid supply cap 24 are provided. A suction base 25 connected to a suction source (not shown) for performing suction from the suction port is provided. In addition, an injection base 26 connected to a water supply means (not shown) for supplying water from the liquid supply port is provided.
[0016]
In addition, when a high frequency leakage current is generated in the endoscope when a high frequency treatment or the like is performed, an earth terminal cap 27 is provided for returning the leakage current to the high frequency treatment device.
[0017]
The operation unit 8 includes an air supply / water supply operation button 28 for operating an air supply operation and a water supply operation, a suction operation button 29 for operating the suction operation, a bending operation knob 30 for performing the bending operation of the bending portion, A plurality of remote switches 31 for remotely operating the video processor 5 and a treatment instrument insertion port 32 which is an opening communicating with the treatment instrument channel are provided.
[0018]
A waterproof cap 33 can be detachably connected to the electrical connector portion 11 of the endoscope 2.
The waterproof cap 33 is provided with a pressure adjustment valve (not shown).
Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the endoscope 2 uses a sterilization storage case 34 in the case of high-pressure steam sterilization.
[0019]
The storage case 34 includes a tray 35 that stores the endoscope 2 to be sterilized and a lid member 36 that covers the upper side of the tray 35.
The tray 35 and the lid member 36 are provided with a plurality of air holes (not shown) through which water vapor can pass. FIG. 2A shows a state where the endoscope 2 is stored in the tray 35.
[0020]
As shown in FIG. 2 (A), the tray 35 is formed with a restricting portion 49 having a concave shape for restricting the storing of the endoscope 2 in the concave portion, corresponding to the shape of the endoscope 2. For example, the AA cross section in FIG. 2 (A) is as shown in FIG. 2 (B). The restricting portion 49 is formed in a concave shape that is slightly larger than each portion so that each portion of the endoscope 2 is in a predetermined position.
[0021]
FIG. 3 shows an internal structure of the electrical connector portion 11.
A plurality of contact pins 38 to which the imaging signal lines and the signal lines of the remote switch 31 are connected are provided on an insulating support plate 39 that is watertightly attached to the inside of the casing 46 of the electrical connector portion 11.
[0022]
Further, in the electrical connector portion 11 of the endoscope 2 according to the present embodiment, the support plate 39 is provided with a ventilation portion 37 as a hole or opening that communicates the inside and the outside of the endoscope 2. . The ventilation portion 37 allows the outside of the endoscope 2 to communicate with the internal space portion 47 sealed by the outer skin portion of the endoscope 2.
A filter 48 having a large number of small holes 48a through which steam passes but does not allow passage of an object larger than the steam may be provided as shown in the drawing.
[0023]
In the present embodiment, when sterilizing with high-temperature and high-pressure steam, high-temperature and high-pressure steam is caused to flow into the space 47 from the ventilation portion 37, and a pipe such as an air / water supply conduit communicating with the space 47 is provided. The outside can be sterilized with high-temperature and high-pressure steam in a short time.
[0024]
When the waterproof cap 33 is attached to the electrical connector portion 11, it is attached in a watertight state, so that external liquid does not touch the contact pins 38 or enter the endoscope 2 from the ventilation portion 37.
[0025]
Then, when the endoscopy is completed, the endoscope 2 is cleaned. At this time, a waterproof cap 33 is attached to the electrical connector portion 11 of the endoscope 2 so that the cleaning liquid enters the endoscope 2 or touches the contact pin 38 of the electrical signal in the future. Prevent the surface from deteriorating (such as poor energization).
[0026]
When the cleaning process is finished, the endoscope 2 is stored in a predetermined shape in the tray 35 of FIG. At this time, the recess 49a around the connector portion 10 is a recess along the shape of the connector portion 10, and the connector portion 10 (and the electrical connector portion 11) must be removed unless the waterproof cap 33 is completely removed from the electrical connector portion 11. ) Cannot be stored in the recess 82a.
[0027]
FIG. 4 schematically shows various conduits built in the endoscope 2.
The conduit 40 is mainly in the insertion portion 7, the conduit tip 40 a is open to the outside at the tip 17, and the conduit rear end 40 b is open to the outside at the operation portion 8. Yes. The conduit 40 is, for example, a treatment instrument insertion or suction conduit.
[0028]
The pipe 41 is mainly in the connecting cord 9, the pipe tip 41 a is open to the outside in the operation part 8, and the pipe rear end 41 b is connected to the outside in the connector part 10 by the suction cap 25. Open. The conduit 41 is, for example, a suction conduit.
[0029]
The pipe line 42 is mainly in the operation unit 8, and the pipe front end is common to the pipe rear end 40 b and is open to the outside in the operation unit 8. The pipe rear end is connected to the pipe front end 41 a. In common, the operation unit 8 is open to the outside. The conduit 42 is, for example, a suction conduit.
[0030]
Then, a pipe line from an aspirator (not shown) is connected to the pipe rear end 41b (suction cap 25), and suction operation is performed with the aspirator, and the pipe front end 41a and the pipe rear end 40b are closed. Suction can be performed from the pipe tip 40a through the path 41, pipe 42, and pipe 40.
[0031]
The conduit 43 is mainly in the insertion portion 7, the conduit tip 43 a is open to the outside at the tip 17, and the conduit rear end 43 b is open to the outside at the operation portion 8. Yes. The conduit 43 is an air / water supply conduit that supplies air or water by cleaning the lens surface of the distal end portion 17, for example.
[0032]
The pipe 44 is mainly in the connecting cord 9, the pipe tip is common with the pipe rear end 43 b, opens to the outside in the operation unit 8, and the pipe rear end 44 b is a water tank pressurization. The connector part 10 is opened to the outside by a base 23 and a gas supply base 24. When the pipe rear end 43b is blocked and air is supplied or supplied from the pipe rear end 44b (water supply tank pressurizing base 23, gas supply base 24), air or water can be supplied from the pipe front end 43a.
[0033]
The pipe 45 is mainly in the insertion portion 7 and the connecting cord 9, the pipe tip 45 a is open to the outside at the tip 17, and the pipe rear end 45 b is connected to the connector part 10 by the inlet 26. Is open to the outside. The pipe 45 is, for example, a forward water feed pipe that feeds liquid to the observation object.
[0034]
As described above, the endoscope 2 includes various ducts that are open at both ends to the outside and allow fluid and the like to be inserted inside. Moreover, both the insertion portion 7 and the connecting cord 9 are formed of flexible members and are not solid but hollow. In addition, most of the pipes in the insertion portion 7 and the connecting cord 9 are arranged in a non-fixed state in the hollow part so as to be able to cope with flexible movement, and there are other built-in parts around the pipes, Almost space.
[0035]
The outer side of the pipe (inside the outer skin of the endoscope 2) in the middle part of these pipes (in this case, a range that is somewhat wide in the sense of the position away from the end) is in communication with the surrounding space 47. The space portion 47 communicates with the outside through the ventilation portion 37. That is, the outside of the pipe line is in a state of communicating with the outside through the ventilation portion 37 that communicates with the space portion 47 (becomes communication means). And the communication state by this ventilation part 37 can be selected by mounting | wearing / non-mounting (removal) of the waterproof cap 33. FIG.
[0036]
In the present embodiment, for example, the inner periphery of the endoscope 2 is not filled with a filler or a solid material around the middle portion of the path connecting the opening and the opening of a certain pipe line, for example, A space in which the space 47 is formed is secured. Further, various built-in objects and parts exist in the middle of the path between the space portion 47 and the ventilation portion 37, but they are arranged so as not to block the passage of steam. Therefore, the vapor can pass through this route without being obstructed.
[0037]
In the endoscope 2 according to the present embodiment, when the sterilization process is performed, the ventilation portion 37 is provided so as to communicate with the surrounding space portion 47 in each pipe line provided in the endoscope 2. In the prevacuum, the space 47 can also be set in a prevacuum state, and in the subsequent high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process, the space 47 outside the pipe (not only inside the pipe) is also high-temperature and high-pressure. It is characterized in that steam can be supplied promptly so that it can be filled so that the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process can be completed in a short time.
[0038]
The operation in this case will be described later with reference to FIG.
FIG. 5 shows a high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus 50 that houses the endoscope 2 according to the present embodiment in the tray 35 and performs high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization.
When the door 51 provided on the front surface of the high-temperature / high-pressure steam sterilizer 50 is opened, the inside becomes a chamber 52 serving as a sterilization chamber for performing high-temperature / high-pressure steam sterilization, and an endoscope housed in the tray 35 therein. 2 can be put in and the door 51 can be closed to perform sterilization.
[0039]
The shape of the chamber 52 is, for example, a storage size such that only one sterilization storage case 34 storing the endoscope 2 can be inserted.
Moreover, you may make it provide a part which detects the relative state of the connector part 10 (electric connector part 11) and the waterproof cap 33 in a part of this high temperature / high pressure steam sterilization apparatus 50. FIG.
[0040]
For example, whether or not the waterproof cap 33 is attached to the electrical connector unit 11 by providing some chips in the vicinity of the electrical connector unit 11 and the waterproof cap 33 and measuring the distance between the chips by the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilizer 50. May be detected.
A mechanism for detecting whether or not the waterproof cap 33 is attached to the electrical connector portion 11 may be provided by a mechanism other than this.
[0041]
Typical conditions for high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization using the above-described high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilizer 50 and the like are pre-vacuum types that are approved by the American Standards Association and are decompressed before the sterilization process according to the American standard ANSI / AAMIST 37-1992 issued by the Medical Device Development Association. Is 4 minutes at the sterilization step 132 ° C., and in the gravity type in which the pressure is not reduced before the sterilization step, it is 10 minutes at the sterilization step 132 ° C.
[0042]
The temperature conditions during the sterilization process of high-pressure steam sterilization vary depending on the type of the high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus and the time of the sterilization process, but are generally set in the range of about 115 ° C to 138 ° C. Some sterilizers can be set to about 142 ° C.
[0043]
About time conditions, although it changes with temperature conditions of a sterilization process, it is generally set to about 3 to 60 minutes. Some types of sterilizers can be set to about 100 minutes.
The pressure in the sterilization chamber in this step is generally set to about +0.2 MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure.
[0044]
In a general pre-vacuum type high-pressure steam sterilization process, a pre-vacuum process in which the sterilization chamber containing the device to be sterilized is depressurized before the sterilization process, and then high-pressure high-temperature steam is sent into the sterilization chamber for sterilization. A sterilization step is included.
[0045]
The pre-vacuum process is a process for allowing the steam to penetrate into the details of the sterilization target device in the subsequent sterilization process. By reducing the pressure in the sterilization chamber, the high-pressure and high-temperature steam is distributed throughout the sterilization target device.
The pressure in the sterilization chamber in the pre-vacuum process is generally set to about -0.07 MPa to -0.09 MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure.
[0046]
Some include a drying step in which the inside of the sterilization chamber is decompressed again after the sterilization step in order to dry the sterilization target device after sterilization. In this step, the interior of the sterilization chamber is depressurized to remove steam from the sterilization chamber and promote drying of the sterilization target device in the sterilization chamber. The pressure in the sterilization chamber in this step is generally set to about -0.07 to -0.09 MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure.
[0047]
In the present embodiment, as will be described later, when the endoscope 2 is sterilized at high temperature and high pressure steam, the waterproof cap 33 is removed from the electrical connector portion 11. As described above, the ventilation portion 37 is provided in the endoscope 2 so that the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process can be completed in a short time.
[0048]
Next, a method for high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope 2 according to the present embodiment will be described.
First, FIG. 6 shows an example of all the steps when the endoscope 2 is sterilized at high temperature and high pressure steam by the high temperature and high pressure steam sterilization apparatus 50.
[0049]
As shown in FIG. 6, all the processes for high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization consist of a preheating process, a pre-vacuum process, a sterilization process, and a negative pressure drying process. In FIG. 6, the solid line indicates the pressure state, and the dotted line indicates the temperature state. Further, the pressure is represented by a positive value when the atmospheric pressure is set to 0, and a negative value when the pressure is negative.
[0050]
In FIG. 6, pre-vacuum is performed three times at a negative pressure of -0.09 to -0.07 MPa. During this time, steam is supplied and the temperature rises (indicated schematically by a very rough line in FIG. 6).
[0051]
In the sterilization process, the pressure is set to 0.22 MPa and the temperature is 135 ° C. (temperature and pressure correspond).
[0052]
FIG. 7 shows a reprocessing process in which after the endoscopic inspection is performed with the endoscope 2, the cleaning operation and the sterilization operation are performed to enable the endoscopic inspection again.
[0053]
As shown in FIG. 7, an endoscopy is performed in step S1, and when the endoscopy is completed, a waterproof cap 33 is attached to the electrical connector unit 11 to make the electrical connector unit 11 waterproof as shown in step S2. To secure the water tightness of the endoscope 2.
[0054]
Then, the cleaning operation of step S3 and step S4 is performed. In step S3, the endoscope 2 in a watertight state is inserted into a cleaning tank or the like, and the outer surface of the endoscope 2 and the inside of the pipeline are cleaned.
[0055]
Thereafter, as shown in step S4, the cleaning liquid is rinsed and dried to finish the cleaning operation.
When this cleaning operation is completed, the waterproof cap 33 is removed from the electrical connector portion 11 as shown in step S5, and the endoscope 2 is stored in the tray 35.
[0056]
When the endoscope 2 is housed in the tray 35, the connector 10 cannot be housed in the restricting portion 49a of the tray 35 unless the waterproof cap 33 is removed. It can be recognized that the mirror 2 is in an inappropriate state for moving to the next step. In FIG. 2, this state is shown by a two-dot chain line with the waterproof cap 33 attached.
[0057]
Furthermore, if the user tries to forcefully insert the connector 10 into the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer 50 even if the connector 10 is not stored in the tray 35, the storage shape of the chamber 52 is the storage for sterilization in which the endoscope 2 is stored. If the case 34 has a shape that fits in just one, if the connector 10 is floated without being accommodated, it cannot be put into the chamber 52, so that it can be recognized that the sterilization operation cannot be performed. .
[0058]
Further, as described above, the detection means may detect whether or not the waterproof cap 33 is attached to the electrical connector portion 11 by the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer 50.
[0059]
In this way, the endoscope 2 is stored in the tray 35 of the sterilization storage case 34 and the lid member 36 covers the endoscope 2. Thereafter, as shown in step S6, the sterilization storage case 34 storing the endoscope 2 is stored (packed) in a sterilization pack (such as a peel pack). Packing in a sterilization pack should be done so that germs in the open air cannot enter (air and water vapor can penetrate but bacteria cannot enter).
[0060]
Then, the sterilization operation from step S7 to step S10 is performed. First, in step S <b> 7, the endoscope 2 stored in the tray 35 (or sterilization storage case 34) is put into the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer 50.
[0061]
In the following sterilization operation, the space of the chamber 52 communicates with the inside of the endoscope 2 (more precisely, the space portion 47 around the intermediate portion of the conduit described above) via the ventilation portion 37.
[0062]
In the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus 50, there is a preheating and pre-vacuum process (negative pressure process) in step S8 before proceeding to the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization process in step S9.
In particular, in the pre-vacuum process, the space portion 47 in the chamber 52 and the endoscope 2 is set to a negative pressure, and steam is supplied and the pressure is returned to the original pressure. Perform this process at least once.
[0063]
It is desirable that the pre-vacuum process is performed a plurality of times because it becomes easy to completely replace the air in the space portion 47 in the chamber 52 and the endoscope 2 with steam.
After this pre-vacuum process, high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization in step S9 is performed.
The endoscope 2 can be sterilized with high-temperature high-pressure steam by this high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization.
[0064]
After this high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization, a negative pressure drying step (vacuum drying step) is performed as shown in step S10.
By performing the process of drying with a negative pressure in this way, the vapor that has entered the space 47 in the endoscope 2 can be discharged and removed to the outside through the ventilation portion 37, and the inside of the endoscope 2 can be removed. Does not become wet with water, and the durability of the components in the endoscope 2 can be maintained (deterioration due to rust and moisture can be avoided as much as possible). For this reason, it is desirable to perform drying by negative pressure.
[0065]
After performing this drying step, the endoscope 2 covered with the sterilization pack is taken out from the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer 50.
Then, as shown in step S11, before performing the endoscopic examination, the sterilization pack is opened and sterilized, and the endoscope 2 stored in the sterilization storage case 34 is taken out.
[0066]
Next, the function and effect obtained by providing the ventilation portion 37 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8A schematically shows the case where the endoscope 2A provided with the ventilation portion 37 in the chamber 52 in the present embodiment is housed, and the ventilation portion 37 is formed in the chamber 52 for comparison. FIG. 8B shows a case where an endoscope 2 'that does not exist is housed. In FIGS. 8A and 8B, the endoscopes 2 and 2 'are actually stored in a sterilization storage case 34 and further covered with a sterilization pack through which steam passes. Therefore, it is omitted.
[0067]
In FIG. 8A, the endoscope 2 communicates with the space portion 47 in the endoscope 2 and the space portion 52a in the chamber 52 by the ventilation portion 37, whereas in FIG. In the endoscope 2 ′, since the ventilation portion 37 is not provided, the space portion 47 inside the endoscope 2 ′ is blocked from the space portion 52 a in the chamber 52.
[0068]
8A and 8B, the endoscope 2 includes end portions 53 and 54, a skin tube body 55 fixed to the end portions 53 and 54, and both end portions 53 and 54 that are open at both ends. It consists of a pipe line 56 (for example, a model of the pipe line 45) and a space 47 accommodated therein. In FIG. 8A, a ventilation portion 37 is provided at the end portion 54.
[0069]
In the case of FIG. 8B, since the space 47 is a sealed space that is cut off from the space 52a of the chamber 52, the space 52a in the chamber 52 is filled with high-temperature and high-pressure steam in the high-temperature and high-pressure sterilization process. However, the pressure in the space 47 does not increase and the temperature does not rise easily.
[0070]
Therefore, even if steam enters the pipeline 56 after the pre-vacuum process, the steam temperature is less likely to rise as it goes deeper in the pipeline 56 (position away from the end portion 54) (pipeline). 56, the temperature tends to decrease due to the space 47). Therefore, it can take a considerably long time to perform sterilization reliably.
[0071]
In general, a plurality of endoscopic examinations are often performed on the same day, and the endoscope used in the first examination is often reprocessed and used again and again on the same day. At that time, it is desired to be able to reprocess as quickly and reliably as possible.
[0072]
In the case of the endoscope 2 according to the present embodiment, the state is as shown in FIG. 8A and the ventilation portion 37 is provided, so that steam is supplied from the ventilation portion 37 to the space portion 47 by the supply of steam after pre-vacuum. to go into.
[0073]
Therefore, the space portion 52a and the space portion 47 in the chamber 52 are likely to have substantially the same pressure and substantially the same vapor, and in that case, not only the inner side of the pipe line 56 but also the inner side of the pipe line 56. A similar level of heat is applied from the outside by the high-temperature and high-pressure steam that fills the space 52 a of the chamber 52, and any position in the pipe 56 can be sterilized quickly.
[0074]
An important element of the ventilation portion 37 is its size.
Assume that the ventilation portion 37 is very small (thin) with respect to the volume of the space portion 47 (for example, 0.1 mm).
If so, the space 47 cannot be synchronized with the speed of the pressure change in the chamber 52, and a time lag occurs.
[0075]
In the pre-vacuum process, in the chamber 52, for example, even if the state of −0.08 MPa is repeatedly performed three times, the space portion 47 has the chamber 52 before reaching −0.08 MPa (for example, about 0.03 MPa). It is possible to enter the process of increasing the pressure (of high-temperature high-pressure steam).
[0076]
When this happens, the space 47 is not sufficiently bleeded up, so that the air originally in the space 47 remains considerably, and the replacement with steam may be insufficient. In this case, if the minimum pressure state in the chamber 52 is kept long, the pressure in the space 47 may eventually become the same pressure, but the time is prolonged in the direction opposite to the state desired by the user. is there.
[0077]
Even in the sterilization process using high-temperature and high-pressure steam, even if the inside of the chamber 52 reaches 0.22 MPa, the inside of the space 47 does not easily reach and is delayed. Therefore, in order to achieve sterilization, the sterilization time (maximum temperature state) ) Must be extended for a long time, which is also the opposite of the user's desired state.
From the above, it is desirable that the size of the ventilation portion 37 is appropriate with respect to the volume of the space portion 47.
[0078]
For example, it is more desirable that the larger one is 1 mm or more, preferably 5 mm or 10 mm.
Further, if possible, in the space portion 47 in the endoscope 2 communicating with the ventilation portion 37, the ventilation portion 37 has a larger area than the clearance area of the portion with the smallest clearance. It can prevent becoming a bottleneck of vapor intrusion.
[0079]
As described above, in the present embodiment, in the pre-vacuum process and the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process, the process in the chamber 52 and the space portion 47 in the endoscope 2 are always performed at substantially the same pressure ( The volume of the internal space in the endoscope 2 and the size of the ventilation part 37 were set so as to be so). By doing so, the sterilization process in the pipe line can be surely performed within a short time.
[0080]
As shown in FIG. 3, if a filter 48 that allows vapor to pass through but does not pass an object of a certain size is provided in a part of the ventilation portion 37, lubrication used in the endoscope 2 is provided. It is possible to prevent the agent and the like from coming out of the ventilation portion 37 during the sterilization operation with the waterproof cap 33 removed. In addition, you may make it attach the filter which provided many small holes which only let vapor | steam pass.
[0081]
Therefore, this embodiment has the following effects.
Sterilization of the pipe line built in the endoscope 2 can be performed more quickly and reliably. In addition, the sterilization process in the pipe line and the like can be performed in a short time with a simple configuration.
[0082]
(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the first embodiment, the case where the ventilation portion 37 is provided in the electrical connector portion 11 has been described. In the present embodiment, the ventilation portion 37 is provided in a portion other than the electrical connector portion 11 and improved.
[0083]
The points to be improved when the ventilation portion 37 is provided in the electrical connector portion 11 are listed below.
(A) Since the electrical connector portion 11 (or the connector portion 10) is a portion connected to the light source device 3 and the processor 5, the electrical connector portion 11 (or the connector portion 10) is located farthest from the insertion portion 7. Therefore, it is difficult for the vapor to reach the pipe line built in the insertion portion 7 through the ventilation portion 37 (although the ventilation portion 37 may be sufficiently large).
[0084]
(B) As described in the first embodiment, the ventilation portion 37 is desirably as large as possible. However, when the endoscope 2 and the existing endoscope that cannot be sterilized at high temperature and high pressure can be commonly connected to the light source device 3 and the processor 5 (ensure compatibility), the electrical connector portion 11 of the endoscope 2 is used. Cannot be made larger than a conventional endoscope.
The ventilation part 37 must be provided in such a limited space, and the ventilation part 37 must be relatively small in size.
[0085]
(C) The space 47 just inside the contact pin 38 shown in FIG. 3 is complicated by many wires. In some cases, it may hinder the invasion of vapor from the ventilation portion 37. These wires are bundled at a position slightly away from the electrical connector portion 11 to form one or several cables.
[0086]
In consideration of these points, in the endoscope 2B shown in FIG. 9, a ventilation portion 37 communicating with the space portion 47 in the endoscope 2B is provided in a part of the operation portion 8. In this case, a watertight cap 60 is detachably attached to the ventilation portion 37, and the watertight cap 60 is connected to the operation portion 8 by a string member 61.
The ventilation portion 37 and the watertight cap 60 may be provided near the rear end of the operation portion 8 indicated by a broken line.
[0087]
In the case where the endoscope 2B of FIG. 9 is stored in the sterilization storage case 34, the endoscope 2B is stored in the sterilization storage case unless the watertight cap 60 attached to the ventilation portion 37 during inspection or cleaning is removed. The shape of the tray 35 is such that it cannot be stored in 34.
Further, a means for notifying the user of the communication state between the ventilation portion 37 and the outside may be provided.
[0088]
According to the present embodiment, by providing the ventilation portion 37 in the operation portion 8, the ventilation portion 37 can be formed near the insertion portion 7, and the vapor that has entered from the ventilation portion 37 is spread over the entire space portion 47 in the endoscope 2. Easy to do.
[0089]
Further, by connecting the watertight cap 60 with the string member 61, it is possible to prevent the watertight cap 60 from being lost.
In the endoscope 2C of the modification shown in FIG. 10, the ventilation portion 37 is provided in the electrical connector portion 11 as in the first embodiment.
[0090]
In this case, although the points (a) and (b) to be improved remain as they are, the one end 62b of the tube 62 is connected to the ventilation portion 37, and the other end portion 62a is inserted through the connecting cord 9. The points to be improved are substantially eliminated by communicating with the space 47 inside the operation unit 8.
[0091]
That is, the tube 62 forms a vapor intrusion path, makes it easy for the vapor to enter the operation unit 8 and the connecting cord 9 side away from the insertion unit 7 of the endoscope 2C by the tube 62, and for the existing endoscope. Similarly to the case, it can be connected to the common light source device 3 and the processor 5.
[0092]
According to this modification, the operability similar to that of an existing endoscope can be ensured without increasing the weight of the operation unit 8 when the ventilation unit 37 is provided in the operation unit 8. .
[0093]
As another modified example, the ventilation portion 37 may be provided in the connector portion 10 closer to the operation portion 8 side than the electrical connector portion 11, for example, in the vicinity of the suction base 25 or the injection base 26, instead of the electrical connector portion 11. .
If it does so, the ventilation part 37 can also be enlarged comparatively and the point which should improve the said (b) and (c) can be solved.
[0094]
As yet another modification, ventilation portions may be provided at a plurality of locations. FIG. 11 shows the endoscope 2D in this case.
[0095]
In this endoscope 2D, as shown in FIG. 9, the operation portion 8 is provided with the ventilation portion 37 so as to be covered with the waterproof cap 60, and further, a portion other than the electrical connector portion 11 in the connector portion 10, for example, a suction cap 25 and the injection cap 26 are provided with a ventilation portion 37b. Further, the ventilation portion 37b can be waterproofed by a waterproof cap 61b connected to the string member 61b, for example.
As described above, the ventilation portions 37 and 37b may be provided at a plurality of locations in one endoscope 2D, for example, at a plurality of spaced locations.
[0096]
In this way, the elongated pipe line in the elongated endoscope 2D is not only from the inside, but also from a plurality of vents 37, 37b outside the pipe line in a short time set to a high temperature state by steam sterilization. Can be sterilized.
[0097]
[Appendix]
1. One end opens to the outside of the endoscope at the distal end of the insertion portion, the other end opens to the outside of the endoscope at a portion other than the insertion portion, and has at least one conduit for allowing fluid etc. to pass inside An endoscope having communication means that selectively communicates with the outside of the endoscope and the space portion that is sealed with the outer skin portion of the endoscope and communicated with the outside of the duct,
A cleaning step of cleaning the endoscope by blocking communication between the space and the outside of the endoscope by the communication means;
While communicating the space portion and the endoscope exterior by the communicating means with respect to the endoscope cleaned in the cleaning step, while the space portion and the endoscope exterior are always in a substantially isobaric state, A step of temporarily putting the space and the outside of the endoscope in a negative pressure state, and then putting steam into the space and the outside of the endoscope to sterilize the endoscope at high temperature and high pressure steam; and
An endoscopic high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment method for an endoscope.
[0098]
2. In Supplementary Note 1, before the operation of the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilizer, when the communication means does not allow communication between the space and the outside of the endoscope, the non-communication state is notified to the user.
3. In Supplementary Note 2, after the cleaning process, the endoscope is stored in a dedicated tray in a predetermined state, and when the storage means is not connected to the outside of the endoscope by the communication means during storage, the endoscope is stored in a predetermined state. It is characterized by not being able to.
[0099]
4). In Supplementary Note 1, the communication means is provided in addition to the signal connection connector portion for connecting the imaging signal line of the endoscope and the external device.
5. In Supplementary Note 4, the communication means is other than the signal connection connector portion in the endoscope connector portion.
6). The supplementary note 4 is characterized in that the communication means is provided in a part of the endoscope operation section.
[0100]
7. The supplementary note 1 is characterized in that a plurality of the communication means are provided.
8). In Supplementary Note 1, the communication means includes a duct member that connects an end portion that opens to the outside of the endoscope and an end portion at a predetermined position inside the endoscope.
9. In Supplementary Note 1, the communication means includes a filter that allows water vapor to pass but does not pass an object of a certain size or larger.
[0101]
10. One end opens to the outside of the endoscope at the distal end of the insertion portion, the other end opens to the outside of the endoscope at a portion other than the insertion portion, and has at least one conduit for allowing fluid etc. to pass inside In addition to the outside of the conduit communicating with the sealed space covered with the outer skin of the endoscope, and the endoscope having resistance to high-temperature and high-pressure steam,
An endoscope characterized in that an opening for inflow of high-temperature and high-pressure steam for sterilizing the outside of the conduit with high-temperature and high-pressure steam is provided in the outer skin part of the endoscope.
[0102]
11. In Supplementary Note 10, the high-temperature and high-pressure steam inflow opening is provided in a connector portion that can be detachably connected to an external device.
12 In Supplementary Note 10, the high-temperature and high-pressure steam inflow opening is hermetically sealed by attaching a waterproof cap, and the space portion side is kept in a water-tight state to enable cleaning with a cleaning liquid.
13. In Supplementary Note 10, the high-temperature and high-pressure steam inflow opening has a function of being in a substantially equal pressure state to the outside of the endoscope.
[0103]
(Background of appendices 10-13)
There is Japanese Patent Publication No. 4-5451 as a preceding example. In this prior example endoscope, an opening is disclosed, but since the endoscope itself does not have resistance to high-temperature high-pressure steam, there is no disclosure or suggestion for high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization.
(Purpose of Supplementary Notes 10-13)
For the purpose of providing an endoscope that can sterilize the inside of a pipe line and the like with a simple configuration more quickly and reliably than in the past, the configurations of Additional Notes 10 to 13 are used.
[0104]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, when high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of an endoscope is performed, sterilization in a pipe line built in the endoscope can be performed more quickly and reliably.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an endoscope apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 2A and 2B are a plan view and a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in a state where the endoscope is stored in a tray.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of an electrical connector portion.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a pipeline system of an endoscope.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an outline of a sterilization process by a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing processing steps of reprocessing after endoscopy.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory view showing the sterilization effect according to the present embodiment in comparison with a conventional example by a schematic diagram of an endoscope.
FIG. 9 is a plan view showing an endoscope according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a plan view showing an outline of a first modification of the endoscope of FIG. 9;
FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a second modification of the endoscope shown in FIG. 9;
[Explanation of symbols]
1. Endoscope device
2. Endoscope
3. Light source device
4 ... Signal cable
5 ... Processor
6 ... Monitor
7 ... Insertion part
8 ... Operation part
9 ... Connection code
10 ... Connector
11 ... Electric connector
17 ... Tip
18 ... Air / water nozzle
21 ... Gas supply cap
23 ... Water tank pressure cap
24 ... Liquid supply cap
25 ... Suction cap
26. Injection cap
32 ... Treatment instrument insertion port
33 ... Waterproof cap
34 ... Storage case for sterilization
35 ... Tray
37 ... Ventilation part
40-45, 56 ... pipeline
47. Space part
50 ... High temperature high pressure steam sterilizer
52 ... Chamber
53, 54 ... end

Claims (2)

An endoscope having one end opened to the outside of the endoscope at the distal end of the insertion portion, the other end opened to the outside of the endoscope at a portion other than the insertion portion, and at least one conduit for allowing fluid or the like to pass therethrough In the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization processing method of the endoscope that sterilizes the mirror with high-temperature high-pressure steam,
For an endoscope having communication means that selectively communicates between a space portion that is communicated with the outside of the duct and is covered and sealed with an endoscope skin portion and the exterior of the endoscope,
The space means is communicated with the exterior of the endoscope by the communicating means, and after the space and the exterior of the endoscope are once in a negative pressure state, steam is put into the space and the exterior of the endoscope, A process of sterilizing the endoscope at high temperature and high pressure steam,
An endoscopic high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment method for an endoscope. One end opens to the outside of the endoscope at the distal end of the insertion portion, the other end opens to the outside of the endoscope at a portion other than the insertion portion, and has at least one conduit for allowing fluid etc. to pass inside An endoscope having communication means that selectively communicates with the outside of the endoscope and the space portion that is sealed with the outer skin portion of the endoscope and communicated with the outside of the duct,
A cleaning step of cleaning the endoscope by blocking communication between the space and the outside of the endoscope by the communication means;
The space section and the exterior of the endoscope are communicated with the endoscope cleaned by the cleaning step by the communication means, and the space section and the exterior of the endoscope are once brought into a negative pressure state, and then the space. A step of putting steam into the part and outside of the endoscope, and sterilizing the endoscope at high temperature and high pressure steam;
An endoscopic high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment method for an endoscope.

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