Handling in the OT
- Hold the scope by the eyepiece body, never by the shaft.
- Never lay a scope where it can roll off a trolley or be leaned on.
- Disconnect the light cable before setting the scope down; a hot light post can damage drapes and the scope itself.
- Avoid using the scope as a lever against tissue or instruments.
Cleaning
- Clean as soon as possible after use so residue doesn’t dry on the lens surfaces.
- Use soft cloths and the cleaning agents recommended for optical instruments — no abrasive pads.
- Clean scopes separately from heavy instruments to avoid knocks and dents.
- Inspect the distal window and eyepiece under good light after cleaning.
Sterilisation
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each scope — all SCAN24 scopes are autoclavable.
- Allow scopes to cool naturally after autoclaving; sudden temperature changes stress the seals.
- Use a dedicated sterilisation tray that holds each scope securely.
Storage
- Store scopes in their trays or cases, not loose in drawers.
- Keep them dry and away from heavy equipment.
Warning signs to act on
Fogging after autoclaving, a dark crescent at the edge of the image, dark spots, or a loose eyepiece are early signs of damage. Stopping use and booking a diagnosis early usually means a simpler repair.
Spotted a problem? Book a free diagnosis. For hospitals, an AMC adds scheduled preventive checks.