Researchers performed direct observation of reprocessing methods for flexible bronchoscopes, multifaceted evaluations after manual cleaning and after high-level disinfection as well as assessments of storage conditions. They visually inspected ports and channels using lighted magnification and borescopes, and they detected contamination using microbial cultures and tests for protein, hemoglobin and adenosine triphosphate. In all, researchers examined 24 bronchoscopes.
They found after manual cleaning all of bronchoscopes had residual contamination. They also found microbial growth in 58 percent of fully reprocessed bronchoscopes, including mold, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Escherichia coli/Shigella spp.
Additionally, researchers observed visible irregularities in all of bronchoscopes, including retained fluid; brown, red, or oily residue; scratches; damaged insertion tubes and distal ends; and filamentous debris in channels.
“Inadequate reprocessing practices may have contributed to bioburden found on bronchoscopes,” study authors wrote. “However, even when guidelines were followed, high-level disinfection was not effective. A shift toward the use of sterilized bronchoscopes is recommended. In the meantime, quality management programs and updated reprocessing guidelines are needed.”
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