Factors affecting insulation failure in reusable surgical devices

Background and Aims: The purpose of this study was to investigate the associated factors of IF in reusable endoscopic instruments. Methods: The insulation coating of reusable endoscopic instruments underwent routine visual checks, hand washing to remove visible stains, and mechanized sterilization. We recorded the cleaning number and usage period of all instruments. The instruments were tested for IF using a detector. Results: IF was found in eight of 69 devices (11.6%). Examining by clinical specialty, we found IF in 4 of 28 gastrointestinal (14.3%), 3 of 20 gynecological (15.0%), 1 of 12 urological (8.3%), and none of the nine thoracic devices. The median distance from the tip to the damaged part was 5 cm (3–5 cm). In the IF and the intact groups, the period of use (7 years [6–8] versus 7 years [4–8], P = 0.90) and the number of cleanings (281 [261–323] versus 261 [179–320], P = 0.27) were not significantly different. The IF group included products of three different companies; however, six of the eight (75.0%) were from the same company. Conclusions: Cleaning methods and usage period might have a smaller effect on IF than the instrument insulation and usage methods.