KR101103758B1 - Apparatus and method for sterilizing endoscope - Google Patents

Apparatus and method for sterilizing endoscope Download PDF

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Publication number
KR101103758B1
KR101103758B1 KR1020100139116A KR20100139116A KR101103758B1 KR 101103758 B1 KR101103758 B1 KR 101103758B1 KR 1020100139116 A KR1020100139116 A KR 1020100139116A KR 20100139116 A KR20100139116 A KR 20100139116A KR 101103758 B1 KR101103758 B1 KR 101103758B1
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South Korea
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endoscope
vacuum
tube
sterilization
sterilant
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KR1020100139116A
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Korean (ko)
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이상일
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이상일
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Priority to KR1020100139116A priority Critical patent/KR101103758B1/en
Priority to PCT/KR2011/010395 priority patent/WO2012091521A2/en
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/12—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
    • A61B1/121—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements provided with means for cleaning post-use
    • A61B1/123—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements provided with means for cleaning post-use using washing machines
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/012—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor characterised by internal passages or accessories therefor
    • A61B1/015—Control of fluid supply or evacuation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/16—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using chemical substances
    • A61L2/20—Gaseous substances, e.g. vapours
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B50/00—Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers
    • A61B2050/005—Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers with a lid or cover
    • A61B2050/0058—Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers with a lid or cover closable by translation
    • A61B2050/006—Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers with a lid or cover closable by translation perpendicular to the lid plane, e.g. by a downward movement
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B50/00—Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers
    • A61B50/30—Containers specially adapted for packaging, protecting, dispensing, collecting or disposing of surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments
    • A61B2050/314—Flexible bags or pouches
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/12—Apparatus for isolating biocidal substances from the environment
    • A61L2202/122—Chambers for sterilisation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/12—Apparatus for isolating biocidal substances from the environment
    • A61L2202/123—Connecting means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/18—Aseptic storing means
    • A61L2202/181—Flexible packaging means, e.g. permeable membranes, paper
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/18—Aseptic storing means
    • A61L2202/182—Rigid packaging means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/20—Targets to be treated
    • A61L2202/24—Medical instruments, e.g. endoscopes, catheters, sharps

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Surgery (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Disinfection Or Sterilisation (AREA)
  • Endoscopes (AREA)

Abstract

PURPOSE: An endoscope sterilization apparatus and a sterilization method thereof are provided to maintain an equilibrium state of pressure between an inner tube and closed space of an endoscope, thereby preventing damage due to expansion or contraction of the inner tube and an outer tube of the endoscope. CONSTITUTION: An endoscope storage container(110) comprises a storage space in which an endoscope is stored. A sterilization housing(120) comprises a sterilization chamber(121) in which the endoscope storage container is stored. A first endoscope connecting tube(115) is arranged in the storage space in order to be connected to an inner tube which is arranged in the endoscope. A second endoscope connecting tube(116) is arranged in the storage space in order to be connected to a closed space of the endoscope. A germicide supply apparatus(140) supplies germicides in order to sterilize the endoscope in the storage space.

Description

Endoscopic sterilization apparatus and sterilization method {APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR STERILIZING ENDOSCOPE}

The present invention relates to an endoscope sterilization apparatus and a sterilization method, and more particularly, to an endoscope sterilization apparatus and an endoscope sterilization method capable of vacuum sterilizing the inside and outside of an elongated endoscope.

Endoscopy was first made by Kussmaul, Germany, in 1868, and is now leading electronic endoscopes with the development of optical technology, the development of optical fibers, and the rapid development of electronics, making a significant contribution to the development of the field of gastroenterology. Current electronic endoscopes are used in surgical as well as diagnostic applications for direct observation of internal organs and for histological examination. Currently, various open surgeries have been replaced by endoscopic surgery.

As described above, the endoscope is being miniaturized and refined while being used for a variety of operations from observing simple internal organs, and also increases the risk of cross infection. Therefore, the importance of cleaning, disinfection and sterilization of the endoscope is increasing.

Methods for cleaning, disinfecting and sterilizing the endoscope are specified in the Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Sterilization Guideline. In other words, the endoscope in contact with sterile tissue is classified into Critical group and sterilized using high pressure steam sterilizer or ethylene oxide gas sterilizer. In the case of endoscope in contact with mucosa, it is classified as Seme-Critical. It is sterilized using chemicals such as Ralaldehyde. In addition, peripheral devices that do not come into contact with the mucous membranes are classified as Non-Critical.

The endoscope used for surgery requires more thorough sterilization. Endoscopy used in patients suspected of cross-infection or used for surgery is preferably sterilized using a high-pressure steam sterilizer or an ethylene oxide gas sterilizer. However, in the case of autoclave sterilizer, most parts of endoscope are sensitive to heat, which can cause trouble, and in case of ethylene oxide gas sterilizer, sterilization time is about 10 hours and its efficiency is low. Long-term exposure can shorten the life span.

Recently, methods and apparatuses for sterilization using hydrogen peroxide vapor or hydrogen peroxide plasma have been developed. However, endoscopes having a multi-channel, narrow inner diameter, and long length structure are difficult to penetrate the sterilizing gas, thereby ensuring a guarantee of sterilization effectiveness. I can't.

Moreover, the endoscope uses lubricants for smooth operation of the air pipes, water pipes, biopsy / suction channels, I.G bundles, L.G bundles, and various wires that make up it. These lubricants use chemicals that react with the sterilant to produce toxic, oxidizing and hazardous substances. The gas generated thus corrodes polymer-based parts such as the endoscope tube and generates leaks, thereby reducing the durability of the endoscope.

Products that use vacuum, such as ethylene oxide gas, hydrogen peroxide vapor, ozone and plasma, all have this problem. The part containing the lubricant is sealed during endoscopy or cleaning and disinfection, so it is not a problem. However, during vacuum sterilization, if the pressure of the sterilization chamber and the internal pressure of the endoscope do not maintain equilibrium, the tube part of the endoscope may be stretched, burst or contracted. Therefore, the endoscope should be sterilized by using a special cap. The sterilant penetrates and causes the above-mentioned problems.

The present invention has been made in view of this point, an object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope sterilization apparatus and endoscope sterilization method that can effectively sterilize the inside and outside of the endoscope without damaging the inner tube or the outer tube.

Endoscope sterilization apparatus according to the present invention for achieving the above object, the endoscope storage container which has an accommodation space in which the endoscope is accommodated can be introduced into the receiving space, sterilization having a sterilization chamber for receiving the endoscope storage container A first endoscope connecting tube disposed in the accommodation space to be connected to a housing, an inner tube provided in the endoscope, and one end of which is connected to a first connector provided in the endoscope storage container, and coupled to a seal release cap provided in the endoscope; A second endoscope connecting tube disposed in the receiving space so as to be connected to the sealed space of the endoscope and having one end connected to a second connector provided in the endoscope storage container, and a sterilizing agent for sterilizing the endoscope in the receiving space. The sterilant supply device for supplying, the sterilant of the sterilant supply device in the endoscope A first vessel connecting tube connecting the sterilant supply device and the first connector to supply a tube, and an endoscope vacuum disposed outside the sterilization housing to supply air outside the sterilization housing to a sealed space of the endoscope. A second vessel connecting tube connecting the release valve and the second connector, a vacuum generator for providing vacuum pressure, and the vacuum generator and the first vessel connecting tube for providing vacuum pressure to the inner tube of the endoscope. Endoscope vacuum tube to connect, the endoscope vacuum valve installed in the endoscope vacuum tube to open and close the flow path of the endoscope vacuum tube, the sterilization chamber and the sterilization chamber so that the vacuum pressure of the sterilization chamber can be delivered to the sealed space of the endoscope 2 endoscope inner vacuum tube connecting the vessel connecting tube, to open and close the flow path of the endoscope vacuum tube And a vacuum valve which is installed inside the endoscope to the endoscope group inside the vacuum tube.

Endoscope sterilization apparatus according to the present invention, the chamber vacuum tube connecting the vacuum generating device and the sterilization chamber to provide a vacuum pressure to the sterilization chamber, installed in the chamber vacuum tube to open and close the flow path of the chamber vacuum tube The chamber may further include a vacuum valve.

Endoscope sterilization apparatus according to the present invention, the chamber vacuum gauge connected to the sterilization chamber to detect the pressure of the sterilization chamber, the endoscope vacuum is connected to the second endoscope connecting tube to detect the pressure of the sealed space of the endoscope The gauge may further include.

The endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention receives the pressure signal of the sterilization chamber and the pressure signal of the sealed space of the endoscope from the chamber vacuum gauge and the endoscope vacuum gauge, respectively, and receives the pressure of the sterilization chamber and the sealed space of the endoscope. The apparatus may further include a control device configured to control the endoscope inner vacuum valve and the endoscope vacuum releasing valve to balance pressure.

The endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention includes a chamber vacuum release valve disposed outside of the sterilization housing to supply air outside the sterilization housing to the sterilization chamber, and a chamber connection tube connecting the sterilization chamber and the chamber vacuum release valve. It may further include.

The endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention may further include a filter connected to the chamber connecting tube to filter out foreign substances contained in the air supplied to the sterilization chamber through the chamber connecting tube.

The endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention may further include a sterilizing agent supply valve installed between the sterilizing agent supply device and the first endoscope connecting tube to control the supply of the sterilizing agent to the endoscope.

The sterilant supply device, a sterilant storage container for storing the sterilant, a sterilant vaporizer for heating and evaporating the sterilant, the sterilant storage container and the sterilization to control the sterilant input to the sterilizer vaporizer It may include a sterilant inlet valve disposed between the vaporizer.

The endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention may further include a filter connected to the second container connecting tube to filter out foreign substances contained in the air supplied to the sealed space of the endoscope through the second container connecting tube.

A plurality of endoscope storage containers are disposed in the sterilization chamber, and the first container connection tube is provided in plurality so as to be connected to the first connector of each of the plurality of endoscope storage containers, and the second container connection tube is provided in the plurality. A plurality of endoscope storage containers may be provided to be connected to each of the second connector.

Endoscope sterilization apparatus according to the present invention, the first dispenser connecting the plurality of first vessel connecting tube and the sterilant supply device and the endoscope inner vacuum tube, respectively, the plurality of second vessel connecting tube and the endoscope vacuum release It may further comprise a second distributor for connecting the valve.

The endoscope storage container may further include an opening connecting the accommodation space and an external space of the accommodation space and a filter disposed at the opening.

The endoscope storage container may have a pouch form in which one side is made of a breathable paper film through which bacteria cannot penetrate and the other side is made of a transparent vinyl film.

The endoscope storage container may include an open top container, a cover coupled to the container to cover the open top of the container, and a support net disposed inside the container to place the endoscope.

Endoscope sterilization method according to an aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object, (a) to put the endoscope in the receiving space, connecting the first endoscope connecting tube to the inner tube of the endoscope, opening and closing the closed space of the endoscope Connecting a second endoscope connecting tube to a sealed release cap provided in the endoscope to open the endoscope inner vacuum valve connecting the second endoscope connecting tube and the receiving space to a sealed space between the receiving space and the endoscope; By connecting the first endoscope connecting tube and the vacuum generator to open the endoscope vacuum valve to provide a vacuum pressure to the first endoscope connecting tube, the inner tube of the endoscope, the receiving space and the sealed space of the endoscope Vacuuming the endoscope; (c) closing the endoscope internal vacuum valve and the endoscope vacuum valve; and (d) the first endoscope. Open the sterilant supply valve connecting the connecting tube and the sterilant supply device to supply the sterilizing agent to the first endoscope connecting tube, and open the endoscope vacuum release valve connecting the second endoscope connecting tube and the external space. Sterilizing the inner tube of the endoscope and the surface of the endoscope while maintaining a pressure balance between the inner tube of the endoscope and the closed space of the endoscope by introducing external air into the sealed space, (e) the sterilant supply valve and Closing the endoscope vacuum release valve; (f) opening the endoscope inner vacuum valve and the endoscope vacuum valve and providing a vacuum pressure to the first endoscope connecting tube, between the inner tube of the endoscope and the sealed space of the endoscope; Removing the sterilant from the endoscope tube and the sterilization chamber while maintaining pressure equilibrium.

The step (b) further includes the step of providing a vacuum pressure to the accommodation space by opening a chamber vacuum valve connecting the vacuum generating device and the accommodation space, the step (c) comprises closing the chamber vacuum valve In addition, the step (f) may further include the step of opening the chamber vacuum valve.

In the step (d), the sterilant supply valve is opened and the sterilant is gradually heated to evaporate, so that the surface of the endoscope can be sterilized with a low concentration of sterilant steam and the sterilant steam can be sterilized with a high concentration of sterilant steam. have.

Endoscope sterilization method according to another aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object, (a) putting the endoscope in the receiving space, making the inner tube of the endoscope, the sealed space of the endoscope and the receiving space into a vacuum, (b A) a sterilant is supplied to the inner tube and the receiving space of the endoscope, and the outside air is supplied to the sealed space of the endoscope, thereby maintaining a pressure balance between the inner tube of the endoscope and the sealed space of the endoscope. Sterilizing the tube and the surface of the endoscope; (c) vacuuming the inner tube of the endoscope, the receiving space, and the sealed space of the endoscope to achieve a pressure balance between the inner tube of the endoscope and the sealed space of the endoscope. Removing the sterilant from the inner tube of the endoscope and the sterilization chamber while maintaining.

The sterilizing agent may include hydrogen peroxide.

The endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention, by sterilizing the surface of the endoscope by passing a low concentration of sterilant vapor vaporized initially through the inner tube of the endoscope, and by sterilizing the inner tube of the endoscope with a high concentration of sterilizing agent vaporized in the latter half In addition, the inside and outside of the endoscope can be sterilized quickly and effectively, and in particular, the sterilization efficiency for the channel of the inner tube of the endoscope with a narrow inner diameter of 1 mm or less can be increased.

In addition, the endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention can maintain the equilibrium between the inner tube of the endoscope and the closed space of the endoscope during the vacuum sterilization process, damage or breakage by contraction or expansion of the inner tube and the outer tube of the endoscope Can be prevented.

In addition, the endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention can directly provide a vacuum pressure to the inner tube of the narrow endoscope can easily make the channel of the inner tube of the endoscope in a vacuum state. Therefore, the vacuum sterilization effect can be enhanced, the drying of the inner tube of the endoscope can be made smoothly, and the removal of the residual sterilizing agent is easy.

In addition, the endoscope sterilization apparatus according to the present invention is easy to store the sterilized endoscope by using a dedicated endoscope storage container having an endoscope connecting tube, it is advantageous to prevent reinfection of the endoscope.

Figure 1 shows an endoscope sterilization apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a part of the configuration of the endoscope sterilization apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 shows an endoscope sterilization apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 shows the endoscope sterilization apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 shows the endoscope storage container of the endoscope sterilization apparatus shown in FIG.
6 shows another embodiment of an endoscope storage container.

Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the endoscope sterilization apparatus and the endoscope sterilization method according to the present invention will be described in detail.

In describing the present invention, the sizes and shapes of the components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated or simplified for clarity and convenience of explanation.

As shown in Figure 1 and 2, the endoscope sterilizing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the endoscope storage container 110, the endoscope storage container 110, the endoscope 10 is accommodated Sterilization housing 120, the vacuum generator 130 for making the interior of the sterilization housing 120 into a vacuum, the sterilant supply unit 140 for supplying sterilizing agents into the sterilization housing 120, the overall device It includes a control device 150 for controlling the operation. The endoscope sterilizing apparatus 100 is a vacuum inside the sterile housing 120, and then supplying a sterilizing agent to the inside of the endoscope storage container 110 accommodated in the sterile housing 120 inside and outside the endoscope 10 Can be sterilized at once.

As shown in FIG. 1, an accommodation space 111 for accommodating the endoscope 10 is provided inside the endoscope storage container 110, and one end of the endoscope storage container 110 opens and closes the accommodation space 111. The door 112 is installed. An opening 113 is provided in one wall of the endoscope storage container 110. When the endoscope storage container 110 is accommodated in the sterile housing 120, the opening 113 opens the sterilization chamber 121 inside the sterile housing 120 and the receiving space 111 inside the endoscope storage container 110. Communicate. The opening 113 is provided with a filter 114 for filtering foreign matter or bacteria contained in the air passing through the opening 113 or the sterilant gas. As the filter 114, various filters capable of filtering foreign substances or bacteria in the air, such as a breathable bacterial filter, may be used.

The accommodation space 111 is provided with a first endoscope connecting tube 115 and a second endoscope connecting tube 116 connected to the endoscope 10. These endoscope connecting tubes 115 and 116 are respectively connected to the first connector 117 and the second connector 118 provided on one wall of the endoscope storage container 110. The first endoscope connecting tube 115 is the first connection portion 115a connected to the air-water valve 11 of the endoscope 10 and the second connection portion 115b connected to the intake valve 12 of the endoscope 10. Has The second endoscope connecting tube 116 is connected to the sealing release cap 13 of the endoscope 10.

The first endoscope connecting tube 115 disposed inside the endoscope storage container 110 may be connected to the first container connecting tube 123 disposed outside the endoscope storage container 110 through the first connector 117. The end of the first container connecting tube 123 is detachably coupled to the first connector 117. The second endoscope connecting tube 116 may be connected to the second container connecting tube 124 disposed outside the endoscope storage container 110 through the second connector 118. The second container connecting tube 124 is detachably coupled at the end thereof to the second connector 118 of the endoscope storage container 110.

Looking briefly at the structure of the endoscope 10, the air tube 14, the water tube 15, the biopsy tube 16 and the suction tube 17 is disposed inside the endoscope 10. The inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of these endoscopes are provided with channels through which fluids such as air or water can flow. The air tube 14 and the water tube 15 are respectively connected to the air-water valve 11. Each end of the air tube 14 and the water tube 15 is connected to one end of the endoscope 10. The biopsy tube 16 and the suction tube 17 are connected to the suction valve 12.

As shown in FIG. 1, when the endoscope 10 is accommodated in the accommodation space 111, the end of the portion where the air tube 14 and the water tube 15 are connected is connected to the accommodation space 111, and the living body Ends of the test tube 16 and the suction tube 17 are also connected to the accommodation space 111. Therefore, each channel of the inner tubes 14, 15, 16, 17 of these endoscopes is in communication with the receiving space 111. In the sealed space 18 of the endoscope in which the inner tubes 14, 15, 16, and 17 are housed, lubricants and the like are connected to the outside only when the seal release cap 13 is opened. When the airtight release cap 13 is closed, the endoscope's sealed space 18 is completely blocked from the outside, and when the airtight release cap 13 is opened, the outside air passes through the airtight release cap 13 to the airtight space 18 of the endoscope. Can be introduced.

When the first endoscope connecting tube 115 is connected to the endoscope 10, the first connection 115a of the first endoscope connecting tube 115 is connected to the air tube 14 and the water tube through the air-water valve 11. 15, the second connection portion 115b is connected to the biopsy tube 16 and the suction tube 17 through the suction valve 12. The second endoscope connecting tube 116 communicates with the sealed space 18 of the endoscope through the seal release cap 13.

A sterilization chamber 121 is provided inside the sterilization housing 120 to accommodate the endoscope storage container 110, and a door 122 for opening and closing the sterilization chamber 121 is installed at one end of the sterilization housing 120. . The sterilization chamber 121 is connected to the outer space of the sterilization housing 120 through the chamber connection tube 125, and is connected to the vacuum generator 130 through the chamber vacuum tube 126, the endoscope inner vacuum tube 127 It is connected to the closed space 18 of the endoscope through).

The chamber connecting tube 125 is provided with a chamber vacuum release valve 128 and a filter 129. When the chamber vacuum release valve 128 is closed, the sterilization chamber 121 is blocked from the outer space of the sterilization housing 120. When the chamber vacuum release valve 128 is opened, the outside air is sterilized by the chamber connection tube 125. ) Can be introduced into. The filter 129 filters the foreign matter contained in the external air introduced into the sterilization chamber 121 through the chamber connection tube 125. As the filter 129, various filters capable of filtering foreign substances or bacteria in the air such as a breathable bacteria filter may be used.

 The chamber vacuum tube 126 is provided with a chamber vacuum valve 132. When the vacuum generator 130 is operated while the chamber vacuum valve 132 is opened, the air of the sterilization chamber 121 is discharged toward the vacuum generator 130 through the chamber vacuum tube 126 to sterilize the chamber 121. Becomes a vacuum. At this time, since the receiving space 111 of the endoscope storage container 110 is connected to the sterilization chamber 121 through the filter 114, the receiving space 111 is also in a vacuum state. In addition, since the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope are connected to the receiving space 111, the channels of the respective inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 are also in a vacuum state.

When the sterilization chamber 121 is in a vacuum state, the chamber vacuum gauge 134 coupled to the sterilization housing 120 detects the pressure of the sterilization chamber 121. The chamber vacuum gauge 128 transmits the detected pressure signal of the sterilization chamber 121 to the control device 150. The chamber vacuum gauge 134 may be installed at various positions capable of detecting the pressure of the sterilization chamber 121 or the accommodation space 111.

The endoscope inner vacuum tube 127 is provided with an endoscope inner vacuum valve 136. One end of the endoscope inner vacuum tube 127 is connected to the second vessel connecting tube 124 is connected to the second endoscope connecting tube 116 and the other end is connected to the sterilization chamber (121). The end of the endoscope inner vacuum tube 127 is connected to the sterilization chamber 121, the sealed space 18 of the endoscope is the second endoscope connecting tube 116, the second vessel connecting tube 124 and the endoscope inner vacuum tube ( It is connected to the sterilization chamber 121 through 127. When the vacuum pressure is provided to the sterilization chamber 121 in the state in which the endoscope internal vacuum valve 136 is opened, the vacuum pressure of the sterilization chamber 121 is transferred to the sealed space 18 of the endoscope and the sealed space 18 of the endoscope. It also becomes a vacuum state.

The second vessel connecting tube 124 is provided with an endoscope vacuum release valve 137, a filter 138 and an endoscope vacuum gauge 139. When the endoscope vacuum releasing valve 137 is opened, air outside the sterile housing 120 is introduced into the sealed space 18 of the endoscope through the second vessel connecting tube 124 and the second endoscope connecting tube 116. The filter 138 filters the foreign matter contained in the outside air introduced into the sealed space 18 of the endoscope through the second container connecting tube 124 when the endoscope vacuum releasing valve 137 is opened. As the filter 138, various filters capable of filtering foreign substances or bacteria in the air, such as a breathable bacterial filter, may be used.

The endoscope vacuum gauge 139 detects the pressure in the closed space 18 of the endoscope, and provides the detected pressure signal to the controller 150. The installation position of the endoscope vacuum gauge 139 is not limited to the second vessel connecting tube 124, but is installed at various positions connected to the second endoscope connecting tube 116 so as to detect the pressure of the sealed space 18 of the endoscope. Can be installed.

As shown in FIG. 1, the sterilant supply device 140 is to supply a sterilant for sterilizing the endoscope 10 to the accommodation space 111, and a sterilant storage container 141 for storing a sterilant. , A sterilant vaporizer 142 for heating and evaporating the sterilant, and a sterilant inlet valve 144 installed between the sterilant storage container 141 and the sterilant vaporizer 142. The sterilant inlet valve 144 controls the sterilant input to the sterilant vaporizer 142. The sterilant vaporizer 142 has a heater 143 for heating the sterilant. The sterilant vaporizer 142 heats the sterilant introduced from the sterilant storage container 141 to evaporate the sterilant, and the sterilant vapor is passed through the first container connecting tube 123 and the first endoscope connecting tube 115. It is supplied to the endoscope 10 and the receiving space (111). The first vessel connecting tube 123 is provided with a sterilant supply valve 145 for controlling the supply of the sterilant to the endoscope 10.

The first container connecting tube 123 is connected to the vacuum generator 130 through the endoscope vacuum tube 147. The endoscope vacuum tube 147 is branched from the chamber vacuum tube 126 and its end is connected to the first vessel connecting tube 123. The endoscope vacuum tube 147 is provided with an endoscope vacuum valve 148. When the vacuum generator 130 is operated while the endoscope vacuum valve 148 is opened, the vacuum pressure of the vacuum generator 130 is reduced by the endoscope vacuum tube 147, the first container connecting tube 123, and the first endoscope. It is provided to the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope through the connecting tube 115.

As shown in FIG. 2, the controller 150 controls the overall operation of the endoscope sterilization apparatus 100. In particular, the control device 150 receives the information on the pressure of the sterilization chamber 121 and the pressure of the sealed space 18 of the endoscope from the chamber vacuum gauge 128 and the endoscope vacuum gauge 139, the inside of the endoscope By automatically adjusting the vacuum valve 136 and the endoscope vacuum releasing valve 137, the pressure equilibrium state between the channels of the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope and the sealed space 18 of the endoscope Is maintained. In addition, the control device 150 is a sterilant inlet valve 144, sterilant supply valve 145, heater 143, vacuum generator 130, chamber vacuum valve 132, endoscope vacuum valve 148 The operation of the chamber vacuum release valve 128 may be controlled.

The endoscope sterilization apparatus 100 according to the present invention may be automatically operated by the control device 150, but may be manually operated without the control device 150. In this case, the operator operates various valves, such as sterilant supply, vacuum supply, pressure balance between the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope and the closed space 18 of the endoscope. You can do this manually.

Hereinafter, an endoscope sterilization method using an endoscope sterilization apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

First, the door 122 is opened and the endoscope 10 is placed in the accommodation space 111 of the endoscope storage container 110. Then, the first connecting portion 115a and the second connecting portion 115b of the first endoscope connecting tube 115 are connected to the air-water valve 11 and the intake valve 12 of the endoscope 10, respectively, and the second endoscope The connection tube 116 is connected to the sealing release cap 13 of the endoscope 10. At this time, the air tube 14 and the water tube 15 of the endoscope 10 is connected to the first endoscope connecting tube 115, the biopsy tube 16 and the suction tube 17 is a second endoscope connecting tube ( 116).

Next, the door 122 is closed and the endoscope storage container 110 is placed in the sterilization chamber 121 of the sterilization housing 120. The first container connecting tube 123 is connected to the first connector 117 of the endoscope storage container 110, and the second container connecting tube 124 is connected to the second connector 118. At this time, the first vessel connecting tube 123 is connected to the first endoscope connecting tube 115 through the first connector 117, the second vessel connecting tube 124 is the second through the second connector 118. It is connected to the endoscope connecting tube 116.

Next, the door 122 of the sterilization housing 120 is closed to seal the sterilization chamber 121, and the chamber vacuum valve 132, the endoscope inner vacuum valve 136, and the endoscope vacuum valve 148 are opened and a vacuum is generated. Activate device 130. When the vacuum generator 130 is operated to provide a vacuum pressure, the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope, the sealed space 18 of the endoscope, the receiving space 111 and the sterilization chamber 121 are provided. ) Becomes a vacuum, and the endoscope becomes the pressure parallel state of the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 and the sealed space 18 of the endoscope.

At this time, the air and the remaining water of the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope is removed. When the vacuum generator 130 is operated, the chamber vacuum valve 132 is closed, even if the chamber vacuum valve 132 is closed, in the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17, the receiving space 111 and the sterilization chamber 121 of the endoscope. Although pneumatic pressure may be provided, opening the chamber vacuum valve 132 may create a vacuum more quickly.

When the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope, the sealed space 18 of the endoscope, the accommodation space 111, and the sterilization chamber 121 are in a vacuum state, the chamber vacuum valve 132, the endoscope The internal vacuum valve 136 and the endoscope vacuum valve 148 are closed. Then, the sterilant inlet valve 144 is opened, the sterilant stored in the sterilant storage container 141 is introduced into the sterilant vaporizer 142, and the sterilant is gradually heated by the heater 143 to make the sterilant vapor. Here, as the sterilant, various materials having sterilization power such as hydrogen peroxide may be used, and the sterilant heating temperature may be set to various temperatures capable of sufficiently evaporating the sterilant such as about 10 to 120 ° C. The process of vaporizing the sterilizing agent may be performed during the process of providing a vacuum pressure to the endoscope 10, the receiving space 111 and the sterilization chamber 121.

Subsequently, when the sterilant is heated in the sterilizer vaporizer 142, the sterilant supply valve 145 is opened. At this time, the sterilant vapor is supplied to the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope through the first vessel connecting tube 123 and the first endoscope connecting tube 115. The sterilant vapor supplied from the sterilant vaporizer 142 is diffused through the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope to the receiving space 111. Thus, the low concentration of sterilant vapor sterilizes the surface of the endoscope 10, and the high concentration of the sterilant vapor is contained within the endoscope inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17. (15) (16) (17) can be sterilized.

When hydrogen peroxide is used as a sterilizing agent, hydrogen peroxide may be slowly evaporated in order to effectively sterilize the inside and outside of the endoscope 10. For example, when hydrogen peroxide is gradually heated to 60 to 120 ° C. starting from 10 to 25 ° C., the surface of the endoscope 10 is sterilized with a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide vapor initially generated, and it is difficult to sterilize with a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide vapor generated later. The inner tubes 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope may be sterilized. Of course, the sterilizing agent used for sterilization in the present invention is not limited to hydrogen peroxide, and the heating temperature of the sterilizing agent is not limited to those described above.

When the sterilizing agent is supplied, the pressure in the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope becomes greater than the pressure in the sealed space 18 of the endoscope, so that the inner tube 14, 15 of the endoscope ( 16) The pressure balance between the 17 and the enclosed space 18 of the endoscope is broken. If the pressure difference between them becomes large, the outer tube 19 of the endoscope may contract and be damaged or broken.

To prevent this problem, the chamber vacuum gauge 134 and the endoscope vacuum gauge 139 monitor the pressure of the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope and the pressure of the confined space 18 of the endoscope. In order to control the endoscope vacuum releasing valve 137, the pressure in the sealed space 18 of the endoscope must be matched with the pressure in the inner tubes 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope. Opening the endoscope vacuum releasing valve 137 and introducing external air into the endoscope enclosed space 18 causes the pressure of the endoscope closed space 18 to be equal to the pressure of the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17. You can increase it equally. The operation of the endoscope vacuum releasing valve 137 may be automatically controlled by the controller 150 receiving a pressure signal from the chamber vacuum gauge 134 and the endoscope vacuum gauge 139.

When the sterilization of the endoscope 10 by the sterilant vapor is completed, the sterilant supply device 140 is determined, and all valves are closed to stop the sterilant supply. Next, the chamber vacuum valve 132 and the endoscope vacuum valve 148 are opened and vacuumed to remove the sterilant and water from the receiving space 111 and the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope. The generator 130 is operated to make the receiving space 111 into a vacuum. At this time, the endoscope inner vacuum valve 136 is opened to make the pressure in the sealed space 18 of the endoscope equal to the pressure in the receiving space 111.

Thereafter, the chamber vacuum valve 132, the endoscope inner vacuum valve 136, and the endoscope vacuum valve 148 are closed and the vacuum generator 130 is stopped, and the chamber vacuum release valve 128 and the endoscope vacuum release valve 137 are closed. ) To open the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope, the closed space 18 of the endoscope, the receiving space 111 and the sterilization chamber 121 at atmospheric pressure. The first vessel connecting tube 123 and the second vessel connecting tube 124 are separated from the endoscope storage container 110, and the endoscope storage container 110 is separated from the sterilization chamber 121. After the endoscope storage container 110 is separated from the sterilization chamber 121 and the sterilized endoscope 10 is not separated from the endoscope storage container 110, the endoscope 10 may be stored in a sterile state even if it is not moved to a separate storage location. Can be.

On the other hand, Figure 3 shows an endoscope sterilization apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The endoscope sterilization apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 3 may accommodate a plurality of endoscope storage containers 110 in a sterilization chamber 121 of the sterilization housing 120 to sterilize several endoscopes 10 at the same time. . The endoscope sterilization apparatus 200 includes a first distributor 210 and a plurality of first container connection tubes 123 and a plurality of endoscopes 10 to provide a sterilant and a vacuum pressure to the plurality of endoscope storage containers 110. A second distributor 220 and a plurality of second vessel connecting tube 124 for providing a vacuum pressure and the outside air in the sealed space 18 of the endoscope sterilization apparatus 100 other than the configuration Same as

The first distributor 210 is connected to a plurality of first container connection tubes 123 and first distributor connection tubes 211 respectively connected to the first connectors 117 of the endoscope storage containers 110. The first distributor connecting tube 211 is connected to the sterilant supply unit 140 and the endoscope vacuum tube 147, the sterilant supply valve 145 for controlling the sterilant supply from the sterilant supply unit 140 Is installed.

The second distributor 220 is connected to a plurality of second container connection tubes 124 and second distributor connection tubes 221 respectively connected to the second connectors 118 of the endoscope storage containers 110. An endoscope vacuum release valve 137 and a filter 138 are installed in the second distributor connection tube 221, and the endoscope inner vacuum tube 127 and the endoscope vacuum gauge 139 are connected to each other.

In addition, since the rest of the configuration and sterilization operation of the endoscope sterilization apparatus 200 is the same as the endoscope sterilization apparatus 100 described above, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, the endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention vaporizes the sterilizing agent supplied to the sterilizing agent vaporizer 142 while gradually heating the air tube of the endoscope 10 to the vaporized low concentration of sterilizing agent vapor ( 14), sterilize the surface of the endoscope 10 by passing it through the water tube 15, the biopsy tube 16 and the suction tube 17, the air tube 14, with a high concentration of sterilant vapor vaporized later By sterilizing the water tube 15, the biopsy tube 16, and the suction tube 17, the inside and outside of the endoscope 10 can be effectively sterilized.

In addition, the endoscope sterilization apparatus according to the present invention can maintain the pressure between the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope and the closed space 18 of the endoscope in an equilibrium state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 or the outer tube 19 of the endoscope from contracting or expanding during the vacuum sterilization process, and the inner tube 14, 15, 16 of the endoscope. Damage or breakage of the (17) or the outer tube (19) can be prevented.

In addition, the endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention can smoothly vacuum the inner tubes 14, 15, 16, and 17 of the endoscope having a narrow inner diameter, and thus, the inner tubes 14, 15 of the endoscope ( 16) (17) can increase the sterilization power, the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope is easy to dry, the residual sterilant is easy to remove.

In addition, the endoscope sterilizing apparatus according to the present invention is easy to store the sterilized endoscope 10 by using a dedicated endoscope storage container 110 having endoscope connecting tubes 115 and 116, the endoscope 10 It is advantageous to prevent reinfection of

The following is a description of the vacuum sterilization process carried out to confirm the sterilization power of the endoscope sterilization apparatus according to the present invention.

First, the endoscope 10 is prepared, and 10 6 Bacillus Stearothermophilus Viable Spores are sterilized by the wire having a width of about 1 mm as a biological indicator for confirming the sterilization effect. The most vulnerable parts were inoculated and dried in the inner center of the air tube 14, water tube 15, biopsy tube 16 and suction tube 17.

Thereafter, the endoscope 10 is placed in the endoscope storage container 110, and each of the inner tubes 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope 10 and the first endoscope connecting tube of the endoscope storage container 110 ( 115), and the second endoscope connecting tube 116 to the release cap 13 of the endoscope 10, the endoscope storage container 110 was put into the sterilization chamber 121.

Next, the chamber vacuum valve 132 and the endoscope vacuum valve 148 are opened to remove the air and the remaining water from the inner tubes 14, 15, 16, and 17 of the endoscope. And at the same time open the endoscope inner vacuum valve 136 to create a pressure equilibrium between the endoscope inner tubes 14, 15, 16, 17 and the endoscope enclosed space 18. Vacuum pressure was also supplied to the space 18. After the pressure of the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope and the sealed space 18 of the endoscope is lowered to 1 Torr, the chamber vacuum valve 132, the endoscope inner vacuum valve 136, and the endoscope vacuum valve (148) was closed to maintain a constant vacuum pressure.

Thereafter, 5 ml of hydrogen peroxide is introduced into the sterilant vaporizer 142, the hydrogen peroxide is slowly heated to about 80 ° C. starting at about 20 ° C., and the sterilant supply valve 145 is opened to supply steam of hydrogen peroxide to the air of the endoscope 10. Tube 14, water tube 15, biopsy tube 16 and suction tube 17 to flow through the inner tube 14, 15, 16, 17 and endoscope 10 of these endoscopes. The hydrogen peroxide vapor was brought into contact with the outside.

When supplying the vaporized hydrogen peroxide to the endoscope 10, while monitoring the pressure between the chamber vacuum gauge 134 and the endoscope vacuum gauge 139, the endoscope vacuum release valve 137 is adjusted to the outside in the sealed space 18 of the endoscope By supplying air, the pressures of the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope and the sealed space 18 of the endoscope were equalized.

Thereafter, the chamber vacuum releasing valve 128 was opened to bring the vaporized hydrogen peroxide vapor into contact with the strain, and the pressure of the accommodation space 111 was raised to atmospheric pressure, and then maintained for about 2 minutes. At this time, the pressure between the chamber vacuum gauge 134 and the endoscope vacuum gauge 139 is compared to balance the inner tubes 14, 15, 16, 17 of the endoscope and the sealed space 18 of the endoscope. While monitoring, the endoscope vacuum release valve 137 was adjusted to supply external air to the sealed space 18 of the endoscope.

Thereafter, the endoscope vacuum valve 148 and the chamber vacuum valve 132 are opened to remove hydrogen peroxide and moisture from the receiving space 111 and the inner tubes 14, 15, 16, and 17 of the endoscope. Operation 130 was made to vacuum the receiving space 111. At this time, the endoscope inner vacuum valve 136 connected to the seal release cap 13 of the endoscope 10 was opened so that the pressure of the sealed space 18 of the endoscope was equal to the pressure of the receiving space 111.

Next, the chamber vacuum release valve 128 is opened, the endoscope connecting tubes 115 and 116 connected to the endoscope 10 are separated into the endoscope 10, and the wires in which the strain has been inoculated are placed in the inner tube 14 of each endoscope. (15) (16) (17) was removed from the culture medium and observed for culture. As a result of observation for 7 days, the strains were all killed, which confirms the sterilization effect on the inner tubes 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the endoscope.

On the other hand, Figure 4 shows an endoscope sterilization apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Endoscope sterilization apparatus 300 shown in Figure 4 is the same as most of the endoscope sterilization apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1, except that there is a difference in the structure of the endoscope storage container 160 for receiving the endoscope 10 . Endoscope storage container 160 is made of a pouch (pouch) form that is easy to deform the flexible material.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the endoscope storage container 160 includes an accommodation space 161 for accommodating the endoscope 10. One end of the endoscope storage container 160 is made of a breathable paper film 162 that bacteria do not penetrate, and the other side is made of a transparent vinyl film 163 to check the inside. The first endoscope connecting tube 115 and the second endoscope connecting tube 116 is provided inside the endoscope storage container 160, and the first endoscope connecting tube 115 is connected to the outside of the endoscope storage container 160. A second connector 118 connected to the first connector 117 and the second endoscope connecting tube 116 is provided.

The endoscope storage container 160 is provided with one end open, and after the endoscope 10 is accommodated, the opening part may be adhered and sealed with a heat seal sealer or the like. After the sterilization of the endoscope 10, the endoscope storage container 160 containing the sterilized endoscope 10 is separated from the sterilization chamber 121, thereby transporting the endoscope 10 to another place in a state in which it is blocked from outside air. Can be stored in a separate place. The endoscope storage container 160 is a simple structure because it is a breathable paper film 162 serves as a filter without the need for a separate filter, occupies less space for storage, it is convenient to use once.

Figure 6 shows another embodiment of the endoscope storage container.

The endoscope storage container 170 shown in FIG. 6 includes an accommodation space 171 for accommodating the endoscope 10, and is coupled to the container 172 and the container 172 whose upper portion is open, and the container 172. A cover 173 covering the open top of the. The container 172 is provided with a support net 174 on which the endoscope 10 can be placed. A first endoscope connecting tube 115 and a second endoscope connecting tube 116 are provided inside the container 172, and a first connector connected to the first endoscope connecting tube 115 on an outer surface of the container 172. 117 and a second connector 118 is connected to the second endoscope connecting tube 116 is disposed. In addition, the fastening member 175 for fixing the cover 173 is coupled to the outside of the container 172.

The cover 173 is coupled to the top of the container 172 to seal the container 172. The upper surface of the cover 173 is provided with a filter 176 for filtering the outside air to the receiving space 171. The fastening member 175 is fastened to the outer edge 177 of the cover 173 while the cover 173 covers the upper portion of the container 172, so that the cover 173 is fixed to the container 172. Although not shown, a sealing member may be provided at an inner edge of the cover 173 to prevent a gap with the container 172.

The embodiments of the present invention described above and illustrated in the drawings should not be construed as limiting the technical spirit of the present invention, and the protection scope of the present invention is limited only by the matters described in the claims. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.

10: endoscope 14, 15, 16, 17: the inner tube of the endoscope
18: closed space of the endoscope 100, 200, 300: endoscope sterilization device
110, 160, 170: endoscope storage container 111, 161, 171: accommodation space
114, 129, 138, 176: filter 115, 116: first and second endoscope connecting tube
117, 118: 1st, 2nd connector 120: sterile housing
121: sterilization chamber
123, 124: first and second vessel connecting tube
125: chamber connecting tube 126: chamber vacuum tube
127: endoscope inner vacuum tube 128: chamber vacuum release valve
130: vacuum generator 132: chamber vacuum valve
134: chamber vacuum gauge 136: endoscope internal vacuum valve
137: endoscope vacuum release valve 139: endoscope vacuum gauge
140: sterilant supply device 141: sterilant storage container
142: sterilizer vaporizer 143: heater
144: sterilant inlet valve 145: sterilant supply valve
147: endoscope vacuum tube 148: endoscope vacuum valve
150: controller 172: container
173 cover 174 support network
210, 220: First and second distributors 211, 221: First and second distributor connection tubes

Claims (19)

An endoscope storage container having an accommodation space in which the endoscope is accommodated and into which external air can flow into the accommodation space;
A sterile housing having a sterile chamber for receiving the endoscope storage container;
A first endoscope connecting tube disposed in the accommodation space so as to be connected to the inner tube provided in the endoscope, and having one end connected to a first connector provided in the endoscope storage container;
A second endoscope connecting tube coupled to the sealing release cap provided in the endoscope and disposed in the accommodation space so as to be connected to the sealed space of the endoscope and having one end connected to a second connector provided in the endoscope storage container;
A sterilant supply device for supplying a sterilant for sterilizing the endoscope in the accommodation space;
A first container connection tube connecting the sterilant supply device and the first connector to supply the sterilant of the sterilant supply device to the inner tube of the endoscope;
A second container connection tube connecting the second connector to an endoscope vacuum releasing valve disposed outside the sterilization housing to supply air outside the sterilization housing to the sealed space of the endoscope;
A vacuum generator for providing a vacuum pressure;
An endoscope vacuum tube connecting the vacuum generator and the first vessel connecting tube to provide a vacuum pressure to the inner tube of the endoscope;
An endoscope vacuum valve installed on the endoscope vacuum tube to open and close the flow path of the endoscope vacuum tube;
An endoscope inner vacuum tube connecting the sterilization chamber and the second container connection tube so that the vacuum pressure of the sterilization chamber can be delivered to the sealed space of the endoscope; And
Endoscope sterilization apparatus comprising a; endoscope inner vacuum valve installed in the endoscope inner vacuum tube to open and close the flow path of the endoscope vacuum tube.
The method of claim 1,
A chamber vacuum tube connecting the vacuum generator and the sterilization chamber to provide a vacuum pressure to the sterilization chamber; And
And a chamber vacuum valve installed in the chamber vacuum tube to open and close the flow path of the chamber vacuum tube.
The method of claim 1,
A chamber vacuum gauge connected to the sterilization chamber to detect the pressure of the sterilization chamber; And
Endoscope sterilization apparatus further comprises; an endoscope vacuum gauge connected to the second endoscope connecting tube to detect the pressure of the sealed space of the endoscope.
The method of claim 3, wherein
The inside of the endoscope is provided so that the pressure signal of the sterilization chamber and the pressure signal of the sealed space of the endoscope are respectively provided from the chamber vacuum gauge and the endoscope vacuum gauge, and the pressure of the sterilization chamber and the pressure of the sealed space of the endoscope are balanced. Endoscope sterilizing apparatus further comprises a control device for controlling the vacuum valve and the endoscope vacuum release valve.
The method of claim 1,
A chamber vacuum release valve disposed outside of the sterilization housing to supply air outside the sterilization housing to the sterilization chamber; And
Endoscope sterilization apparatus further comprises a chamber connecting tube connecting the sterilization chamber and the chamber vacuum release valve.
The method of claim 5, wherein
Endoscope sterilizing apparatus further comprises a filter connected to the chamber connecting tube to filter foreign matter contained in the air supplied to the sterilization chamber through the chamber connecting tube.
The method of claim 1,
And a sterilant supply valve installed between the sterilant supply device and the first endoscope connecting tube to control the supply of the sterilant to the endoscope.
The method of claim 1,
The sterilant supply device, a sterilant storage container for storing the sterilant, a sterilant vaporizer for heating and evaporating the sterilant, the sterilant storage container and the sterilization to control the sterilant input to the sterilizer vaporizer Endoscope sterilization apparatus comprising a sterilant inlet valve disposed between the vaporizer.
The method of claim 1,
Endoscope sterilizing apparatus further comprises a filter connected to the second container connecting tube to filter out foreign substances contained in the air supplied to the sealed space of the endoscope through the second container connecting tube.
The method of claim 1,
A plurality of endoscope storage containers are disposed in the sterilization chamber, and the first container connection tube is provided in plurality so as to be connected to the first connector of each of the plurality of endoscope storage containers, and the second container connection tube is provided in the plurality. Endoscope sterilization apparatus, characterized in that a plurality is provided to be connected to each of the second connector of the endoscope storage container.
The method of claim 10,
A first distributor connecting the plurality of first container connection tubes, the sterilant supply device, and the endoscope inner vacuum tube, respectively; And
Endoscope sterilization apparatus further comprises; a second distributor for connecting the plurality of second vessel connecting tube and the endoscope vacuum release valve.
The method of claim 1,
The endoscope storage container further comprises an opening connecting the receiving space and the outer space of the receiving space and the filter disposed in the opening endoscope sterilizing apparatus.
The method of claim 1,
The endoscope storage container is an endoscope sterilizing apparatus, characterized in that one side is made of a breathable paper film that bacteria do not penetrate, and the other side has a pouch (pouch) form of a transparent vinyl film.
The method of claim 1,
The endoscope storage container is an endoscope sterilizing apparatus comprising an open top container, a cover coupled to the container to cover the open top of the container, and a support net disposed inside the container to place the endoscope.
(a) inserting the endoscope into the receiving space, connecting the first endoscope connecting tube to the inner tube of the endoscope, and connecting the second endoscope connecting tube to the sealing release cap provided in the endoscope to open and close the sealed space of the endoscope; Making;
(b) an endoscope vacuum valve which opens an endoscope inner vacuum valve connecting the second endoscope connecting tube and the receiving space to connect the sealed space of the receiving space and the endoscope and connects the first endoscope connecting tube and the vacuum generator; Opening and providing a vacuum pressure to the first endoscope connecting tube, thereby making the inner tube of the endoscope, the receiving space and the closed space of the endoscope into a vacuum;
(c) closing the endoscope internal vacuum valve and the endoscope vacuum valve;
(d) opening a sterilant supply valve connecting the first endoscope connecting tube and the sterilant supply device to supply a sterilant to the first endoscope connecting tube, and an endoscope vacuum connecting the second endoscope connecting tube and the external space; Opening a release valve to introduce external air into the sealed space of the endoscope to sterilize the inner tube of the endoscope and the surfaces of the endoscope while maintaining a pressure balance between the inner tube of the endoscope and the closed space of the endoscope;
(e) closing the sterilant supply valve and the endoscope vacuum releasing valve; And
(f) opening the endoscope inner vacuum valve and the endoscope vacuum valve and providing a vacuum pressure to the first endoscope connecting tube, thereby maintaining a pressure balance between the inner tube of the endoscope and the sealed space of the endoscope; Removing the sterilant from the tube; Endoscope sterilization method comprising a.
The method of claim 15,
The step (b) further includes the step of providing a vacuum pressure to the receiving space by opening the chamber vacuum valve connecting the vacuum generating device and the receiving space,
The step (c) further includes the step of closing the chamber vacuum valve,
The step (f) further comprises the step of opening the chamber vacuum valve endoscope sterilization method.
The method of claim 15,
In step (d), the sterilant supply valve is opened and the sterilant is gradually heated to evaporate, thereby sterilizing the surface of the endoscope with a low concentration of sterilant steam and sterilizing the inner tube of the endoscope with a high concentration of sterilant steam. Endoscope sterilization method characterized in that.
(a) placing an endoscope in a receiving space, and vacuuming the inner tube of the endoscope, the sealed space of the endoscope, and the receiving space;
(b) supplying a sterilizing agent to the inner tube and the receiving space of the endoscope and supplying the outside air to the sealed space of the endoscope, maintaining the pressure balance between the inner tube of the endoscope and the sealed space of the endoscope; Sterilizing the inner tube and the surface of the endoscope; And
(c) vacuuming the inner tube of the endoscope, the receiving space and the sealed space of the endoscope, and sterilizing agent in the inner tube of the endoscope while maintaining a pressure balance between the inner tube of the endoscope and the closed space of the endoscope; Endoscope sterilization method comprising the; step of removing.
The method according to claim 15 or 18,
The sterilizing agent endoscope sterilization method comprising hydrogen peroxide.
KR1020100139116A 2010-12-30 2010-12-30 Apparatus and method for sterilizing endoscope KR101103758B1 (en)

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PCT/KR2011/010395 WO2012091521A2 (en) 2010-12-30 2011-12-30 Apparatus and method for sterilizing an endoscope

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WO2019160339A1 (en) * 2018-02-13 2019-08-22 주식회사 플라즈맵 Sterilizer and sterilization method thereof
KR102248516B1 (en) * 2020-10-14 2021-05-06 유재광 Sterilizing apparatus
KR20210143361A (en) * 2020-05-19 2021-11-29 임신조 Flexible endoscope low-temperature plasma sterilization system
EP2806902B1 (en) * 2012-01-27 2022-10-19 Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH Process for sterilization of a medical hose set, system comprising as sterilisation device and a medical hose set, and use of the system
KR20230069413A (en) * 2021-11-12 2023-05-19 주식회사 퓨어텍 Method and apparatus for sterilization using hydrogen peroxide
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EP2806902B1 (en) * 2012-01-27 2022-10-19 Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH Process for sterilization of a medical hose set, system comprising as sterilisation device and a medical hose set, and use of the system
WO2018164453A1 (en) * 2017-03-07 2018-09-13 주식회사 플라즈맵 Sterilizing packaging container for sealing and storing sterilizing agent
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KR20230069413A (en) * 2021-11-12 2023-05-19 주식회사 퓨어텍 Method and apparatus for sterilization using hydrogen peroxide
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KR102660328B1 (en) * 2022-02-28 2024-04-24 (주)엔도마스터 Endoscope storage device using atmospheric pressure plasma
WO2023250098A1 (en) * 2022-06-22 2023-12-28 Pentax Of America, Inc. Silver-ion-impregnated channel for endoscope, endoscope including silver-ion-impregnated channel, and methods of cleaning and reprocessing such endoscope

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