5 Sections of an Endoscope That May Need to be Repaired
Endoscopes are designed to be somewhat durable since these medical devices are used for various diagnostic and treatment purposes on a regular basis. However, they’re also delicate pieces of equipment susceptible to normal wear or physical damage. Major problems can be more complicated and time consuming. The good news is that most scope repairs are minor. When it’s time to take advantage of endoscope repair services, there are typically five sections that may need attention.
1. Light Guide Connector (LGC)
The LGC is the part of the scope that connects to the processor to provide light when an endoscope is used. Repairs may involve the cylindrical light post that plugs into the processor, which may become dented or bent, or the lens. Areas around ports and seals around electrical contacts will also be checked for leaks.
2. Universal Cord
The light guide connector and control sections are linked with the universal cord. Because there are many unseen components within the cord, damage may be not be detectable with a visual inspection alone. Dent removal is the most common universal cord repair.
3. Control Handle
On flexible scopes, the control handle is highly susceptible to damage because this is what doctors use to manipulate the scope when it’s being used. This is also the section where all endoscope functions take place. Replacement or adjustment to angulation dials or freeze knobs and cable and cannula replacement are among the common repairs performed within this section.
4. Insertion Tube
Like the universal cord, the insertion tube is hollow and desired to protect internal components. Flushing of the channel and dent removal are some of the minor repairs that may need done in this section of the scope. In some cases, the forcep channel that biopsy instrumentation passes through becomes impeded, which may cause it to wear down. This is a more extensive repair, as is replacement of the image bundle.
5. Bending Section
This section is at a higher risk of damage than other sections because of how it’s used during endoscopic procedures. The thin bending rubber is the part that often needs attention since it may develop cuts or pinholes or loosen over time. If the distal cap is scratched or cracked, it can easily be replaced. Since the angulation collar is what allows flexible scopes to “flex”, it may become damaged enough to require replacement. Correcting issues with bending mesh is a more complex type of repair since it will need to be precisely repaired to allow the rest of the scope below it to function properly.
Endoscope repairs typically involve adjusting or replacing parts within any of the five sections discussed here. It’s only when a scope has been thoroughly disassembled and inspected that any issues affecting how it performs can be identified. When repairs are correctly completed with careful attention to detail, healthcare providers or facilities using such devices can enjoy much-appreciated savings and access to fully functioning scopes.
