Method for high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment of endoscope and endoscope

A method for autoclave sterilization of an endoscope 2 of the present invention includes the step of making a space, which is defined by the outer side of a channel and an outer covering member of the endoscope 2, communicate with the outside of the endoscope, while at least one end of the channel communicates with the outside of the endoscope 2 and the channel is inserted through the inside 47 of the endoscope. The space 47 and the outside of the endoscope are once brought into the negative pressure. Thereafter, steam is introduced in the space 47 and the outside of the endoscope, and the endoscope 2 is sterilized.

This application claims benefit of Japanese Application Nos. 2003-200154 filed on Jul. 22, 2003, 2003-286093 filed on Aug. 4, 2003, and 2003-425833 filed on Dec. 22, 2003, the contents of which are incorporated by this reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a method for a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment of an endoscope, wherein the endoscope is subjected to a sterilization treatment with high-temperature high-pressure steam, and an endoscope.

2. Description of the Related Art

In recent years, endoscopes have been used widely in the medical field, wherein endoscopes are inserted into body cavities and the like and, thereby, intracavital deep parts and the like are observed, and if necessary, treatment tools are used, so that medical and therapeutic treatments and the like can be performed.

With respect to medical endoscopes, it is indispensable to reliably disinfect and sterilize endoscopes after using in order to prevent infection and the like.

Recently, in the disinfection and sterilization, autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) is becoming the mainstream of the method for sterilizing endoscope apparatuses, wherein no complicated operation attends, it is possible to use immediately after sterilization, and there is an advantage in the running cost.

For example, a method for sterilization treatment to prevent breakage of a covering of an endoscope due to the pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the endoscope during high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope is disclosed in the conventional art of Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-51323.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A method for autoclave sterilization of an endoscope of the present invention includes the steps of making a space, which is defined by the outer side of a channel and an outer covering member of the endoscope, communicate with the outside of the endoscope while at least one end of the channel communicates with the outside of the endoscope and the channel is inserted through the inside of the endoscope, introducing steam into the space and the outside of the endoscope after the space and the outside of the endoscope are once brought into the negative pressure, and sterilizing the endoscope.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A plurality of embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1toFIG. 8relate to a first embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 1is an entire configuration diagram of an endoscope apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 2is a plan view showing the state in which the endoscope according to the first embodiment is stored in a tray.FIG. 3is a sectional view of a section along a line III-III shown inFIG. 2.FIG. 4is a sectional view showing the configuration of an electrical connector portion according to the first embodiment.FIG. 5is a diagram showing a channel system of the endoscope according to the first embodiment.FIG. 6is a perspective view showing a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus according to the first embodiment.FIG. 7is a diagram schematically showing a sterilization step with the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus according to the first embodiment.FIG. 8is a flow chart showing treatment steps of reprocessing after endoscopy, according to the first embodiment.FIG. 9is a schematic diagram of the endoscope for explaining sterilization operation according to the first embodiment.FIG. 10is a schematic diagram of the endoscope for explaining sterilization operation according to a conventional art.

As shown inFIG. 1, an endoscope apparatus1used for endoscopy is composed of an endoscope2provided with image pickup means, a light source unit3, a video processor5, and a monitor6. The light source unit3is detachably connected to the endoscope2, and supplies illumination light to a light guide disposed in the endoscope2. The video processor5is connected to the endoscope2via a signal cable4to control the image pickup means of the endoscope2and, in addition, to process signals obtained from the image pickup means. The monitor6displays an image corresponding to an object image output from the processor5.

The endoscope2is cleaned after being used for endoscopy, e.g., observations and treatments, and is composed of members having the resistance against high-temperature high-pressure steam in order that a sterilization treatment can be performed with the high-temperature high-pressure steam after the cleaning is performed. Since the endoscope2has a structure in which high-temperature high-pressure steam is intentionally and forcedly flowed into a space portion47inside an outer covering member (integument portion) of an insertion portion7, a control section8, and the like of the endoscope2and, thereby, a sterilization treatment is performed, as described later, it is one of the features that internal signal lines and the like are composed of members having the resistance against the high-temperature high-pressure steam.

The endoscope2includes a slender insertion portion7which has flexibility and which can be inserted into a body to be examined, more specifically, into body cavities, a control section8connected to the proximal end side of the insertion portion7, a connection cord (universal cord)9which has flexibility and which extends from the side portion of the control section8, a connector portion10, and an electrical connector portion11. The connector portion10is disposed at the end portion of the connection cord9, and is detachably connected to the light source unit3. The electrical connector portion11is disposed at the side portion of the connector portion10. A connector4aat the end portion of the signal cable4is detachably connected to the electrical connector portion11, wherein the signal cable4is detachably connected, to the processor5which is an external apparatus.

A vent portion37, which makes the inside of the endoscope2communicate with the outside, is disposed in the electrical connector portion11, as shown inFIG. 4.

An insertion-portion-side protection boot12, which serves for preventing tight turning of a joint portion and which is composed of an elastic member, is disposed at the joint portion of the insertion portion7and the control section8. Likewise, a control-section-side protection boot13is disposed at the joint portion of the control section8and the connection cord9. Likewise, a connector-portion-side protection boot14is disposed at the joint portion of the connection cord9and the connector portion10.

The insertion portion7is composed of a flexible tube section15having flexibility, a bending section16which is disposed in the distal end side of the flexible tube section15and which is bendable by the operation of the control section8, and a distal end portion17which is disposed at the distal end and which is provided with an observational optical system, an illuminational optical system, and the like, although not shown in the drawing.

At the distal end portion17, an air/water supply nozzle for ejecting a cleaning liquid or air toward the optical members on the outer surface of the observational optical system, although not shown in the drawing, through the air supply operation and the water supply operation, and a suction hole which is a distal-end-side opening of a treatment tool channel, although not shown in the drawing, disposed in the insertion portion7to insert a treatment tool and to suction a liquid from the body cavity are provided.

Furthermore, a liquid supply hole opened toward an observation object to eject a liquid is disposed at the distal end portion17.

The connector portion10is provided with an air supply base21detachably connected to an air supply source, although not shown in the drawing, built in the light source unit3, and a water supply tank-pressurizing base23and a liquid supply base24, each detachably connected to the water supply tank22serving as a liquid supply source. A suction base25connected to a suction source, although not shown in the drawing, to perform suction from the aforementioned suction hole is disposed on the back side of the water supply tank-pressurizing base23and the liquid supply base24of the connector portion10. An injection base26connected to water supply means, although not shown in the drawing, to perform supply of water from the liquid supply hole is disposed in the vicinity of the suction base25of the connector portion10.

Furthermore, an earth terminal base27to return a leakage current to a high-frequency treatment apparatus when the high-frequency leakage current is generated in the endoscope during performing of the high-frequency treatment and the like is disposed on the side surface of the connector portion10.

The control section8is provided with an air/water supply operation button28for performing an air supply operation or water supply operation, a suction operation button29for performing a suction operation, a bending control knob30for performing a bending operation of the bending section, a plurality of remote switches31for remotely controlling the video processor5, and a treatment tool insertion hole32which is an opening communicating with the treatment tool channel.

A watertight cap33is detachably connected to the electric connector portion11of the endoscope2.

The watertight cap33is provided with a pressure control valve, although not shown in the drawing.

As shown inFIG. 1, when the endoscope2is subjected to the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, a sterilization container case34is used.

The container case34is open upward, and is composed of a tray35serving as an endoscope tray for storing the endoscope2to be subjected to the sterilization and a cover member36covering the upper side of the tray35.

The tray35and the cover member36are provided with a plurality of vent holes, although not shown in the drawing, and steam can pass through the holes.FIG. 2shows the state in which the endoscope2is stored in the tray35.

As shown inFIG. 2, the tray35is provided with an accommodation regulation portion (hereafter referred to as regulation portion)49, in which concave shave is formed to regulate the storing of the endoscope2along the concave shape in a groove portion, that is, in a concave portion, formed corresponding to the shape of the endoscope2. For example,FIG. 3shows a section indicated by a line III-III inFIG. 2. The regulation portion49is formed into the concave shape of a size slightly larger than the size of each part of the endoscope2in order that each part is stored in a predetermined location.

FIG. 4shows an inside structure of the electrical connector portion11.

A plurality of contact pins38connected to the image pickup signal line and the signal lines of the remote switches31are disposed in a insulating support plate39attached watertightly to the inner side of a casing46of the electrical connector portion11.

Furthermore, a vent portion37serving as a hole or an opening which makes the inside of the endoscope2communicate with the outside is provided in the support plate39of the electrical connector portion11of the endoscope2according to the present embodiment. Through the vent portion37, the outside of the endoscope2communicates with the internal space portion47enclosed with the integument portion, that is, the outer covering member, of the endoscope2. Put another way, a communication path communicating with the internal space portion47and the outside of the endoscope2is formed by the vent portion37.

A filter48provided with a plurality of small holes48awhich pass steam but do not pass objects larger than the steam may be disposed in a part of the vent portion37, as shown in the drawing. That is, the vent portion37constituting the communication path is provided with the filter48which passes steam but does not pass objects larger than or equal to a predetermined size.

The endoscope2according to the present embodiment has a configuration in which when the sterilization treatment is performed with high-temperature high-pressure steam, the high-temperature high-pressure steam is flowed into the space portion47from the vent portion37, the outer side of channels, e.g., the air/water supply channel, communicating with the space portion47is heated with the high-temperature high-pressure steam and, thereby, the sterilization treatment can be performed in a short time.

When the watertight cap33is attached to the electrical connector portion11, since the attachment is performed watertightly, any external liquid is not brought into contact with the contact pins38, nor enter the inside of the endoscope2from the vent portion37.

When the endoscopy is completed, the endoscope2is cleaned. At this time, the watertight cap33is attached to the electrical connector portion11of the endoscope2and, thereby, the above-described communication path is blocked. As a result, the cleaning liquid is prevented from entering the inside of the endoscope2and being brought into contact with the contact pins38so as to deteriorate the surface of the contact pins38in the future and, thereby, cause occurrence of failure in current-carrying and the like.

After the cleaning step is completed, the endoscope2is stored in the tray35while taking a predetermined shape. At this time, a dent49aaround the connector portion10is a dent along the shape of the connector portion10, and the connector portion10and the electrical connector portion11cannot be stored in the dent82aunless the watertight cap33is completely detached from the electrical connector portion11.

FIG. 5schematically shows various channels built in the inside of the endoscope2.

A channel40is primarily included in the insertion portion7, and a channel front end40ais opened to the outside at the distal end portion17. A channel back end40bis opened to the outside at the control section8. The channel40is a channel serving for inserting a treatment tool or for suctioning, for example.

A channel41is primarily included in the connection cord9, a channel front end41ais opened to the outside at the control section8, and a channel back end41bis opened to the outside at the connector portion10through the suction base25. The channel41is a channel serving for suctioning, for example.

A channel42is primarily included in the control section8, the channel front end is shared with the channel back end40b, and is opened to the outside at the control section8. The channel back end is shared with the channel front end41a, and is opened to the outside at the control section8. The channel42is a channel serving for suctioning, for example.

The channel back end41b(suction base25) is connected to a channel from a suction device, although not shown in the drawing, and when a suction operation is performed with the suction device while the channel front end41aand the channel back end40bare blocked, suction can be performed from the channel front end40athrough the route of the channel41, the channel42, and the channel40.

A channel43is primarily included in the insertion portion7, a channel front end43ais opened to the outside at the distal end portion17, and a channel back end43bis opened to the outside at the control section8. The channel43is an air/water supply channel serving for supplying air or supplying water in cleaning of a lens surface of the distal end portion17, for example.

A channel44is primarily included in the connection cord9, the channel front end is shared with the channel back end43b, and is opened to the outside at the control section8. A channel back end44bis opened to the outside at the connector portion10through the water supply tank-pressurizing base23and the air supply base24. When the channel back end43bis blocked and air supply or water supply is performed from the channel back end44b(the water supply tank-pressurizing base23, the air supply base24), air supply or water supply can be performed from the channel front end43a.

A channel45is primarily included in the insertion portion7and the connection cord9, a channel front end45ais opened to the outside at the distal end portion17, and a channel back end45bis opened to the outside at the connector portion10through the injection base26. The channel45is a channel serving for supplying water frontward to supply a liquid to an observation object, for example.

As described above, various channels are built in the endoscope2, while both ends are opened to the outside, and fluids and the like can be inserted through the inside. Furthermore, both the insertion portion7and the connection cord9are formed from pliable members, and are not solid but hollow. Most of channels in the insertion portion7and the connection cord9are arranged in a hollow portion while being in an unfixed state in order to meet flexible movement, and the periphery of the channel is substantially space although other built-in members are present.

In the inside of the integument of the endoscope2, outer sides of these channels in middle portions (here, refers to a location at a distance from the end portion, and refers to a wide range to some extent) of the channels communicate with the surrounding space portion47, and the space portion47communicates with the outside through a vent portion37. That is, the outer sides of the channels are in the state of communicating with the outside through the vent portion37serving as communication means communicating with the space portion47. Put another way, the space47constructed by the outer sides of various channels inserted through the inside of the endoscope2and the outer covering member of the endoscope2communicates with the outside of the endoscope2through the vent portion37. This communication state through the vent portion37can be selected by attachment/non-attachment (detachment) of the watertight cap33.

In the present embodiment, for example, a space for forming the space portion47is ensured in the periphery of the middle portion of the path bonding one opening and another opening of some channel without filling the inside of the integument of the endoscope2with fillers and solid matters. Although various built-in members and components are present at some midpoints of the path between the space portion47and the vent portion37, these are arranged in order to avoid interfering the flow of the steam. Therefore, the steam can pass through this path without being hindered.

The endoscope2of the present embodiment has a feature that, since the vent portion37is disposed and the vent portion37can communicate with the space portion47in the periphery of each channel disposed in the inside of the endoscope2when the sterilization treatment is performed, the space portion47can also be adjusted to become in the pre-vacuum state during the pre-vacuum. Consequently, in the following high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, the space portion47in the outside of the channel (as well as the inside of the channel) can also be supplied and filled in with high-temperature high-pressure steam, each channel is heated from the outside of the channel and, thereby, the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization can be completed in a short time.

The operations in this case will be described later with reference toFIG. 9andFIG. 10.

FIG. 6shows a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50in which the endoscope2according to the present embodiment is stored in the tray35, and the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization is performed.

The high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50is in the shape of a box, and when a door51disposed on the front surface is opened, there is a chamber52in the inside thereof. The chamber52serves as a sterilization chamber in which the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization is performed. The tray35including the endoscope2or the sterilization container case34in which the tray35is covered with the cover member36is put in the chamber52, the door51is closed and, thereafter, the sterilization treatment can be performed.

With respect to the shape of the chamber52, for example, the size is adjusted to be suitable for tightly storing only one sterilization container case34including the endoscope2.

Means for detecting the relative state between the connector portion10(or the electrical connector portion11) and the watertight cap33may be disposed as a part of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50.

For example, some type of chip may be disposed at each of the vicinity of the electrical connector portion11and the watertight cap33in order that the distance between the two chips is measured with the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50and, thereby, it becomes possible to detect whether the watertight cap33is attached to the electrical connector portion11.

Means for detecting whether the watertight cap33is attached to the electrical connector portion11by the use of a mechanism other than that described above may be disposed.

Regarding the typical conditions (temperature, time, pressure) of high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization with the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50or the like, in the US standard ANSI/AAMI ST37-1992 approved by American National Standards Institute and issued by Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, the sterilization step is specified to be at 132° C. for 4 minutes in pre-vacuum type in which the pressure is reduced before the sterilization step, and the sterilization step is specified to be at 132° C. for 10 minutes in gravity type in which the pressure is not reduced before the sterilization step.

Although the temperature condition during the sterilization step of high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization varies depending on the format of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus and the amount of time of the sterilization step, in general, it is set within the range of about 115° C. to 138° C. Some sterilization apparatuses can be set at about 142° C.

The time condition varies depending on the temperature condition during the sterilization step. In general, it is set at about 3 minutes to 60 minutes. Some types of sterilization apparatuses can be set at about 100 minutes.

The pressure in a sterilization chamber during this step is generally set at about +0.2 MPa relative to atmospheric pressure.

In general, a pre-vacuum type high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step includes a pre-vacuum step in which the inside of the sterilization chamber storing the target apparatus for sterilization is brought into the state of reduced pressure before a sterilization step and the following sterilization step in which high-temperature high-pressure steam is supplied into the sterilization chamber so as to perform sterilization.

The pre-vacuum step is a step for making steam penetrate into detail of the target apparatus for sterilization during the following sterilization step, and by reducing the pressure in the sterilization chamber, high-pressure high-temperature steam goes throughout the target apparatus for sterilization.

In general, the pressure in the sterilization chamber during the pre-vacuum step is set at about −0.07 MPA to −0.09 MPa relative to atmospheric pressure.

In order to dry the target apparatus for sterilization after sterilization, a drying step may be included, in which the inside of the sterilization chamber is brought into the reduced pressure state again after the sterilization step is completed. In this drying step, the pressure in the sterilization chamber is reduced, the steam is removed from the inside of the sterilization chamber and, therefore, drying of the target apparatus for sterilization in the sterilization chamber is accelerated. In general, the pressure in the sterilization chamber during this drying step is set at about −0.07 to −0.09 MPa relative to atmospheric pressure.

In the present embodiment, the endoscope2is subjected to the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization while the watertight cap33is detached from the electrical connector portion11, as described later. Since the endoscope2is provided with the vent portion37, as described above, the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment can be completed in a short time.

A method for high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope2, according to the present embodiment, will be described below.FIG. 7shows an example of entire steps in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope2by the use of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50.

As shown inFIG. 7, the entire steps are composed of a pre-heat step, a pre-vacuum step, a sterilization step, and a vacuum dry step. InFIG. 7, a solid line indicates the state of pressure, and a dotted line indicates the state of temperature. With respect to the pressure, the state of atmospheric pressure is taken as0. When a pressure is applied, the pressure is indicated by a positive value, and when a vacuum is produced, the pressure is indicated by a negative value.

InFIG. 7, the pre-vacuum is performed three times at −0.09 to −0.07 MPA of vacuum. During this time, steam is supplied, and the temperature is raised (schematically indicated by a rough line inFIG. 7).

In the sterilization step, the pressure is adjusted at 0.22 MPA, and the sterilization is performed at a temperature of 135° C. (the temperature and the pressure are in correspondence with each other).

FIG. 8shows steps of reprocessing, wherein after the endoscopy with the endoscope2is completed, a cleaning operation and a sterilization operation are performed in order that the endoscopy can be performed again.

As shown inFIG. 8, the endoscopy is performed in step S1, and after the endoscopy is completed, as shown in step S2, the watertight cap33is attached to the electrical connector portion11to make the electrical connector portion11waterproof, so that the watertightness of the endoscope2is ensured.

Subsequently, a cleaning operation (cleaning step) composed of step S3and step S4is performed. In step S3, the endoscope2in the watertight state is inserted in a cleaning tank or the like, so that the outer surface of the endoscope2and inside of the channels are cleaned.

Thereafter, as shown in step S4, a rinse of a cleaning liquid and drying are performed, so that the cleaning operation is completed.

After this cleaning operation is completed, as shown in step S5, the watertight cap33is detached from the electrical connector portion11, and the endoscope2is stored in the tray35.

When the endoscope2is stored in the tray35, if the watertight cap33is not detached, the connector10cannot be stored in the regulation portion49aof the tray35. Consequently, the user can recognize that the endoscope2with the watertight cap33being not detached is in the state unsuitable for going to the next step. With respect to this situation, inFIG. 2, the state in which the watertight cap33is attached is indicated by a chain double-dashed line.

Furthermore, even if the user attempts to forcedly put the sterilization container case34into the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50in spite of the fact that the connector10is not stored in the tray35, since the storing shape of the chamber52is adjusted to be a shape suitable for tightly storing only one sterilization container case34including the endoscope2, it is impossible to put the case34into the chamber52when the connector10is not stored and is floated and, thereby, the user can also recognize that it is impossible to proceed to the sterilization operation.

As in the above description, the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50may detect whether the watertight cap33is attached to the electrical connector portion11by the use of detection means.

The endoscope2is thus stored in the tray35of the sterilization container case34, and is covered with the cover member36. Subsequently, as shown in S6, the sterilization container case34including the endoscope2is stored, or packed, in a sterilization package, e.g., a peel package. The packing in the sterilization package is reliably performed in order that bacteria in outside air cannot enter (air and steam pass through but bacteria cannot enter).

The sterilization operation (sterilization step) from step S7to step S10is performed. In step7, the endoscope2in the state of being stored in the tray35(or the sterilization container case34) is put into the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50.

In the following sterilization operation, the space of the chamber52communicates with the inside of the endoscope2(the space portion47in the periphery of the middle portion of the above-described channels to be more precise) through the vent portion37.

With respect to the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50, a pre-heat and pre-vacuum step (vacuum step) in step S8is performed before proceeding to a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step in step S9.

In particular, during the pre-vacuum step, the inside of the chamber52and the space portion47in the endoscope2are brought into a vacuum state, and then the pressure is returned to an original pressure while steam is supplied. This process is performed at least once.

It is desirable that the pre-vacuum step is performed plural times because air is adequately removed from the chamber52and the space portion47in the endoscope2and, thereby, steam readily substitutes for the air in the chamber52and the space portion47in the endoscope2during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step in the following step S9.

The high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization in step S9is performed after this pre-vacuum step.

The endoscope2can be sterilized with high-temperature high-pressure steam through this high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization.

After this high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, the vacuum dry step (step of drying under vacuum), as shown in step S10, is performed.

By performing the step of drying under vacuum, steam entered in the space portion47of the endoscope2can be discharged and removed through the vent portion37to the outside, the inside of the endoscope2is not brought into the state of being wet with water, and the durability of constituents in the endoscope2can be maintained. That is, the deterioration due to rust and moisture can be minimized. Consequently, it is desirable that the drying is performed under vacuum.

After this drying step is performed, the endoscope2covered with the sterilization package is taken out of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50.

As shown in step11, the sterilization package is opened before performing endoscopy, and the endoscope2sterilized and stored in the sterilization container case34is taken out. Subsequently, the endoscope2can be used for the endoscopy.

The operation and advantage of disposition of the vent portion37will be described below with reference toFIG. 9andFIG. 10.FIG. 9schematically shows the case where the endoscope2provided with the vent portion37is stored in the chamber52in the present embodiment. For purposes of comparison, the case where the endoscope2′ not provided with the vent portion37is stored in the chamber52is shown inFIG. 10. Practically, the endoscopes2and2′ are stored in the sterilization container case34and, furthermore, are covered with sterilization packages which pass steam. However, the packages are not shown inFIG. 9andFIG. 10for the sake of simplification.

In the endoscope2shown inFIG. 9, the space portion47in the inside of the endoscope2communicates with a space portion52ain the chamber52through the vent portion37. On the other hand, in the endoscope2′ shown inFIG. 10, the vent portion37is not disposed and, therefore, the space portion47in the inside of the endoscope2′ is cut off from the space portion52ain the chamber52.

InFIG. 9andFIG. 10, the endoscope2is composed of end portions53and54, an integument tube55fixed thereto, a channel56(for example, a simulation of the channel45), both ends of which are opened at the end portions53and54and which is stored in the integument tube55, and the space portion47. InFIG. 9, the vent portion37is disposed in the end portion54.

In the case shown inFIG. 10, since the space portion47becomes an enclosed space cut off from the space portion52aof the chamber52, even when the space portion52aof the chamber52is filled in with high-temperature high-pressure steam during the high-temperature high-pressure sterilization step, the pressure in the space portion47is not increased, and the temperature is resistant to rising as well.

Consequently, even when steam enters into the channel56after the pre-vacuum step, the temperature of the steam becomes resistant to rising as the steam goes into the deep of the channel56, that is, as the steam goes to the location farther from the end portion54. This is because the temperature is readily lowered by the space portion47midway through the channel56. Therefore, it may take a significantly long time to reliably perform sterilization.

Generally in many cases, endoscopy is performed plural times in the same day and, in many cases, the endoscope used in the first inspection is reprocessed and used on several occasions in the same day. At that time, it is desired that the reprocessing can be performed promptly and reliably as much as possible.

The endoscope2according to the present embodiment is brought into the state shown inFIG. 9. Since the vent portion37is disposed, steam enters from the vent portion37into the space portion47during the steam supply after the pre-vacuum.

Therefore, with respect to the space portion52ain the chamber52and the space portion47, the pressures readily become substantially equal, and substantially equivalent steam presents. Consequently, even a deep position of the channel56is applied with a similar level of heat from the outside of the channel56by the high-temperature high-pressure steam filled in the space portion52aof the chamber52as well as from the inside of the channel56, so that every position in the channel56can be sterilized promptly.

One important factor of the vent portion37is the size thereof.

The vent portion37is assumed to be very small or to have a small diameter (for example, 0.1 mm) relative to the volume of the space portion47.

As a result, the space portion47cannot synchronize to the speed of the pressure change in the chamber52, and a time lag occurs.

In the pre-vacuum step, for example, even when the state of −0.08 MPA is repeated 3 times in the chamber52, the pressure increase due to high-temperature high-pressure steam may start in the chamber52before the inside of the space portion47reaches −0.08 MPA, for example, when the inside of the space portion47reaches about 0.03 MPA.

Consequently, since the inside of the space portion47is not completely subjected to prevacuum, the air originally present in the space portion47remains significantly, and the substitution of steam may become inadequate. At this time, if the inside of the chamber52is kept at a minimum pressure for longer time, the pressure in the space portion47becomes a similar pressure in the end. However, the increase in time is a direction opposite to the state required by the user.

In the sterilization step with the high-temperature high-pressure steam as well, even when the inside of the chamber52reaches 0.22 MPA, the space portion47takes a long time to reach and, therefore, delays. As a result, the sterilization time (maximum temperature state) must be extended in order to achieve sterilization. This is a direction opposite to the state required by the user as well.

In this manner, it is desirable that the size of the vent portion37is an appropriate size relative to the volume of the space portion47.

The larger size, for example, of 1 mm or more, if possible, of 5 mm or more, or of 10 mm or more, is more desirable. If possible, the area of the vent portion37is larger than the area of clearance of the portion having a minimum clearance among the space portion47in the inside of the endoscope2, communicating with the vent portion37, because the vent portion37can be prevented from becoming a bottleneck in entrance of the steam.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the volume of the inside space of the endoscope2and the size of the vent portion37are adjusted in order that the step progresses while the pressures in the chamber52and the space portion47in the endoscope2are always substantially equal during the pre-vacuum step and the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step. Consequently, the sterilization treatment in the channel can be reliably performed in a short time.

When the filter48which passes steam but does not pass objects having some extent of size is disposed in a part of the vent portion37, as shown inFIG. 4, a lubricant and the like used in the endoscope2can be prevented from flowing to the outside in the event of the sterilization operation being performed in the state in which the watertight cap33is detached. A filter provided with a plurality of holes which are small to such an extent that only steam is passed may be attached.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope is performed, sterilization in channels built in the endoscope can be performed more promptly and reliably. The sterilization treatment in the channels and the like can be performed in a short time with a simple configuration.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference toFIG. 11. In the description of the first embodiment, the electrical connector portion11is provided with the vent portion37. The present embodiment is a modification in which the vent portion37is disposed in a portion other than the electrical connector portion11. The same constituents as that in the first embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment and explanations thereof will not be provided.

The points which should be improved in the case where the vent portion37is disposed in the electrical connector portion11are listed below.(a) Since the electrical connector portion11(or the connector portion10) is a portion in contact with the light source unit3and the processor5, the electrical connector portion11is located at the farthest position from the insertion portion7. Therefore, if the vent portion37is not adequately large, steam is resistant to reaching the channel built in the insertion portion7through the vent portion37.(b) As described in the first embodiment, it is desirable that the vent portion37is as large as possible. However, in the case where the endoscope2and a conventional endoscope which cannot be subjected to high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization are made possible to commonly connect to the light source unit3and the processor5(to ensure compatibility), the electrical connector portion11of the endoscope2cannot be made larger than that in the conventional endoscope. The vent portion37needs to be disposed in such a limited space and, therefore, the vent portion37tends to have relatively small size.(c) The space portion47immediately inside the contact pins38shown inFIG. 4includes many convoluted wirings. In some cases, the wirings may hinder the entrance of steam from the vent portion37. Those wirings are bundled into one or several cables at a location a short distance from the electrical connector portion11.

In consideration of these points, with respect to an endoscope2B shown inFIG. 11, the vent portion37communicating with the space portion47in the endoscope2B is disposed in a part of the control section8. In this case, a watertight cap60is freely detachably attached to the vent portion37, and the watertight cap60is connected to the control section8with a string member61.

These vent portion37and watertight cap60may be disposed in the vicinity of the back end of the control section8, as indicated by broken lines.

The tray35is made to have a shape in which the endoscope2B cannot be stored in the sterilization container case34unless the watertight cap60, which is attached to the vent portion37during inspection and cleaning, is detached, in the case where the endoscope2B shown inFIG. 11is stored in the sterilization container case34.

Means which notifies the user of the communication state of the vent portion37with the outside may be disposed.

According to the present embodiment, the vent portion37is disposed in the control section8and, thereby, is formed at the location in the vicinity of the insertion portion7, so that the steam entered from the vent portion37is readily made to go throughout the space portion47in the endoscope2.

The watertight cap60is connected with a string member61and, thereby, the watertight cap60is prevented from being lost.

With respect to an endoscope2C shown inFIG. 12, which is a modification of the present embodiment, the vent portion37is disposed in the electrical connector portion11as in the first embodiment.

In this case, if no modification is made, the above-described points (a) and (b), which should be improved, still remain. However, the points are almost overcome by connecting one end62bof a tube62to the vent portion37and making the other end portion62acommunicate with the space portion47in the inside of the control section8while the tube62is inserted through the connection cord9. That is, the tube62, which is a channel member connecting the end portion62bopened to the outside of the endoscope and the end portion62adisposed at a predetermined location in the inside of the endoscope, is provided as a communication path.

That is, a steam entrance path is formed by the tube62, steam is allowed to readily enter the control section8and connection cord9side apart from the insertion portion7of the endoscope2C by the tube62, and connection to the common light source unit3and processor5can be performed as in the conventional endoscope.

According to the present modification, the weight of the control section8is not increased in contrast to that in the case where the vent portion37is disposed in the control section8, and the operability similar to that in the conventional endoscope can be ensured.

In another modification, the vent portion37may be disposed not in the electrical connector portion11but in the connector portion10, at the location in the side nearer to the control section8than is the electrical connector portion11, for example, in the vicinity of the suction base25or the injection base26.

In this manner, it is also possible to make the vent portion37relatively large, and the points (b) and (c) can be overcome.

In another modification, vent portions may be disposed in a plurality of locations.FIG. 13shows an endoscope2D in this case.

In the endoscope2D, the vent portion37is disposed in the control section8in order that the vent portion37can be covered with the watertight cap60, as shown inFIG. 11, and in addition, a vent portion37bis disposed in the portion other than the electrical connector portion11in the connector portion10, for example, in the vicinity of the suction base25or the injection base26. The vent portion37bcan also be made waterproof by, for example, a watertight cap61bconnected to a string member61b.

As described above, the vent portion37and vent portion37bmay be disposed at a plurality of locations, for example, a plurality of locations apart from each other, in one endoscope2D.

In this manner, the slender channels in the slender endoscope2D can be sterilized in a short time through sterilization by the steam from the vent portions37and37bat a plurality of locations outside the channel as well as from the inside of the channel, wherein a high temperature state is set in a short time.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, when the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope is performed, sterilization in channels built in the endoscope can be performed more promptly and reliably.

FIG. 14toFIG. 24are diagrams related to a third embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 14is an entire configuration diagram of an endoscope apparatus provided with an endoscope according to the third embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 15is a plan view showing the state in which the endoscope according to the third embodiment is stored in a tray.FIG. 16is a diagram showing the configuration of a channel system disposed in the endoscope according to the third embodiment.FIG. 17is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the structure and the operation of a steam supply check valve disposed in the endoscope according to the third embodiment.FIG. 18is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the structure and the operation of the steam supply check valve disposed in the endoscope according to the third embodiment.FIG. 19is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the structure and the operation of a steam supply temperature valve disposed in the endoscope according to the third embodiment.FIG. 20is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the structure and the operation of the steam supply temperature valve disposed in the endoscope according to the third embodiment.FIG. 21is a flow chart showing a treatment procedure of reprocessing in which a treatment is performed in order that reuse becomes possible after endoscopy, according to the third embodiment.FIG. 22is a schematic diagram of an endoscope for explaining the operation in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope provided with a steam supply temperature valve.FIG. 23is a schematic diagram of an endoscope for explaining the operation in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization according to a conventional art.FIG. 24is a diagram showing the state of pressure in a space portion in the inside of an endoscope during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization.

The same constituents as that in the first embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, explanations thereof will not be provided, and different points will be primarily described.

The configuration of an endoscope according to the present embodiment will be described.FIG. 14shows an entire configuration of an endoscope apparatus1. InFIG. 14, the watertight cap33is provided with a pressure control valve33ain contrast to that inFIG. 1.

In the control section8in the endoscope2of the third embodiment, a steam supply check valve55or a steam supply temperature drive valve56(may be abbreviated as a steam supply temperature valve) is disposed in order to flow high-temperature high-pressure steam into the space portion in the inside of the outer covering component of the endoscope2, under the condition in which high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization is performed, to heat-sterilizing the space portion in the inside of the endoscope2with steam, as described later. With respect to the steam supply check valve55(or the steam supply temperature valve56), a valve is automatically opened at the condition of a high-temperature high-pressure steam (the condition in which the endoscope2is present in an atmosphere of high-temperature high-pressure steam).

The high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope2is performed in the state in which the watertight cap33with a pressure control valve is attached to the electrical connector portion11.

In this state, the pressure control valve33aof the watertight cap33with a pressure control valve is closed, the vent hole is blocked by the watertight cap33with a pressure control valve, and the inside of the endoscope2is watertightly enclosed and is cut off from the outside.

A pre-vacuum step may be performed prior to the step of sterilization treatment with high-temperature high-pressure steam. In this pre-vacuum step, when the pressure in the sterilization chamber is reduced, the pressure in the outside becomes lower than the pressure in the inside of the endoscope2and, therefore, pressure difference occurs. When this pressure difference occurs, the pressure control valve is opened and, therefore, the inside of the endoscope2communicates with the outside through the vent hole37. Consequently, occurrence of a large pressure difference between the inside of the endoscope2and the sterilization chamber (that is, chamber52) is prevented. In this manner, breakage of the endoscope2due to the pressure difference between the inside and the outside does not occur.

In the sterilization step, when the inside of the sterilization chamber is pressurized and, therefore, such a pressure difference that the pressure in the outside becomes higher than the pressure in the inside of the endoscope2occurs, the pressure control valve is closed. In this manner, the high-temperature high-pressure steam does not actively enter the inside of the endoscope2through the watertight cap33with a pressure control valve and the vent hole.

Various channels built in the inside of the endoscope2according to the present embodiment are substantially similar to the channels shown inFIG. 5, but are different in the following point.

With respect to the feature of the present embodiment, the steam supply check valve55or the steam supply temperature (drive) valve56is disposed in, for example, the control section8located in the neighborhood of the midpoint of the channel extending from the connector portion10to the distal end portion17of the insertion portion7. In the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, this valve allows high-temperature high-pressure steam to flow into the inside space portion47enclosed by the outer covering component, e.g., the integument, of the endoscope2so as to perform (heat) sterilization, and when the condition fits into that of a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, the valve is opened, so that the space portion47is made to communicate with the outside.

InFIG. 16, the steam supply check valve55(or the steam supply temperature valve56) is disposed in the vicinity of the back end of the control section8.

In the electrical connector portion11, the space portion47communicates with the outside through the vent hole37. Therefore, the watertight cap33with a pressure control valve is attached to the electrical connector portion11during the cleaning and the sterilization. In the state in which the watertight cap33is attached to the electrical connector portion11, the space portion47communicates with the outside through the pressure control valve33a.

FIG. 17toFIG. 20show the schematic configurations of the steam supply check valve55and the steam supply temperature valve56.

As shown inFIG. 17, the outer surface of the control section8is provided with an opening57adisposed in the control section outer covering component57. The steam supply check valve55serving as a pressure drive valve, which is opened in a pressurization step of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization so as to communicate with the outside, is disposed in the space portion47in the inside of the endoscope2inside the opening57a. With respect to the location of disposition of the steam supply check valve55, the effect is exerted as long as the check valve55communicates with the space in the periphery of the middle portion of the channel in the inside of the endoscope2. However, it is more effective that the check valve55is disposed in the control section8located in the neighborhood of the midpoint between the distal end portion17of the insertion portion7and the connector portion10.

The end portion of the steam supply check valve55is inserted through a hole disposed in a valve support frame58fixed to the inside of the control section8, while being free to move forward and backward, and the valve portion55adisposed at the upper end is energized by the elastic force of a watertightness-ensuring spring59to press-contact the opening57a. In the normal state, specifically, at a water pressure during the endoscopy and the cleaning step, as shown inFIG. 18, the steam supply check valve55is not opened and, thereby, the space portion47is cut off from the outside, so that the watertightness is ensured by the steam supply check valve55.

In the pressurization step of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, when the pressure in the chamber52is higher than the pressure in the space portion47in the inside of the control section8by 0.01 MPa or more, the valve portion55ais pressed and opened as shown inFIG. 17. It is essential only that the pressure difference which causes the opening is designed to be higher than the water pressure (here, 0.001 MPa) during the cleaning step and lower than the maximum pressure (here, 0.2 MPa) in the chamber52during the sterilization step. However, 0.005 MPa or more and 0.05 MPa or less is more preferable in order to more reliably ensure the watertightness up to the cleaning step and to open for longer time during the sterilization step.

FIG. 19andFIG. 20show the steam supply temperature valve56. This valve exerts the effect similar to that of the steam supply check valve55in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, and serves as a temperature drive valve in which the valve is opened at the temperature in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization.

The steam supply temperature drive valve56has a structure in which an SMA (shape-memory alloy) spring60is further disposed in the structure of the steam supply check valve55.

That is, with respect to the steam supply check valve55, the watertightness-ensuring spring59is disposed between the valve support frame58and the control section outer covering component57and, thereby, the steam supply check valve55is energized to the opening57aside. On the other hand, the steam supply temperature drive valve56is further energized by the SMA spring60disposed in the side lower (the side inner) than the valve support frame58in the direction opposite to the energization direction by the watertightness-ensuring spring59.

In the normal state, that is, at a water pressure during the endoscopy and the cleaning step, the steam supply temperature drive valve56is not opened due to the elastic force of the watertightness-ensuring spring59and, therefore, the state shown inFIG. 19is maintained.

On the other hand, in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, the SMA spring60exerts a restoring force (elastic force) larger than the elastic force of the watertightness-ensuring spring59.

For example, when the temperature rises to 75° C. or more, the SMA spring60exerts a restoring force larger than the elastic force of the watertightness-ensuring spring59, and, as shown inFIG. 20, the steam supply temperature drive valve56is opened. With respect to the temperature condition at which the restoring force to open the valve is exerted, it is essential only that the temperature is higher than the water temperature (for example, 65° C.) during the cleaning step and lower than the maximum temperature (for example, 135° C.) in the chamber52during the sterilization step. However, 70° C. or more and 100° C. or less is more preferable in order to more reliably ensure the watertightness up to the cleaning step and to open for longer time during the sterilization step. InFIG. 20, the temperature is shown as 75° C. For example, a Ni—Ti alloy can be used as the SMA.

A filter which passes steam but does not pass objects larger than or equal to some extent of size may be disposed, although not shown in the drawing, in the steam path of the steam supply check valve55or the steam supply temperature valve56.

A series of steps performed in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50is similar to that in the above-describedFIG. 7and, therefore, explanations thereof will not be provided.

As is described below with reference toFIG. 21, after the endoscopy is completed, the cleaning of the endoscope2is performed. At this time, the watertight cap33with a pressure control valve is attached to the electrical connector portion11of the endoscope2and, thereby, the cleaning liquid is prevented from entering the inside of the endoscope2and being brought into contact with the contact pins38of the electric signal that may cause deterioration of the surfaces of the contact pins38(failure in current-carrying and the like) in the future. After the cleaning step is completed, the endoscope2is stored in the tray35while taking a predetermined shape, and the sterilization step is performed.

Furthermore, a filter which passes steam but does not pass objects larger than or equal to some extent of size may be disposed, although not shown in the drawing, in the communication path of the pressure control valve33aof the watertight cap33with a pressure control valve.

The operations of the present embodiment will be described below with reference toFIG. 21.FIG. 21shows each step performed in the reprocessing of the endoscope2in detail.

As shown in step S11, the endoscopy is performed with the endoscope2. After this endoscopy is completed, as shown in step S12, the watertight cap33with pressure control valve33ais attached to the electrical connector portion11, so that the watertightness of the endoscope2is ensured. Subsequently, a cleaning operation (cleaning step) composed of step S13and step S14is performed.

In step S13, the outer surface of the endoscope2and inside of the channels are cleaned. Thereafter, as shown in step S14, a rinse of a cleaning liquid and drying are performed.

After this cleaning operation of step13and step14is completed, as shown in step S15, the endoscope2is stored in the tray35while the watertight cap33with a pressure control valve is left attached.

Subsequently, as shown in S16, the tray35including the endoscope2is stored in a sterilization package, e.g., a peel package.

The endoscope2stored in the sterilization package is put into the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50shown inFIG. 6(step17), and the sterilization operation (sterilization step) from step S17to step S20is performed.

At this time, the user is not required to perform any special operation with respect to the endoscope2, and only performs relocation. Therefore, a shift to the sterilization can be performed more promptly, and the following sterilization does not become inadequate due to misoperation.

A pre-vacuum (vacuum) treatment of step S18is performed prior to performing a high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization of step S19with the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50.

During this pre-vacuum step, the inside of the chamber52is brought into a vacuum state, and then the pressure is returned to an original pressure while high-temperature high-pressure steam is supplied.

At this time, since the pressure control valve33ais disposed, the inside of the endoscope2becomes into a vacuum state together with the inside of the chamber.

This process is performed at least once and, thereafter, the chamber52and the space portion47in the endoscope2are pressurized, so that a steam sterilization step is performed.

Desirably, the pre-vacuum step is performed plural times because air is adequately discharged from the chamber52and the space portion47in the endoscope2and, thereby, steam readily substitutes for the air during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step in the following step S19.

After the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, it is desirable that the drying step under vacuum of step S20is performed.

By this drying step, steam entered in the space portion47of the endoscope2can be removed through the pressure control valve33a, no moisture remains in the endoscope2, and the durability of constituents in the endoscope2can be maintained. Consequently, the deterioration due to rust and moisture can be minimized. Then, the endoscope2is taken out of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50.

Before the endoscope2taken out of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50is used for endoscopy, as shown in step S21, the sterilization package is opened and the endoscope2is taken out. Subsequently, the endoscope2can be used for the endoscopy.

The operations by the steam supply check valve55or the steam supply temperature valve56will be described below with reference toFIG. 22andFIG. 23.

FIG. 22schematically shows the configuration of the endoscope2in the chamber52, and for purposes of comparison,FIG. 23shows the configuration of the endoscope2′ in the chamber52according to a conventional art.FIG. 22shows the state in which the space portion47in the inside of the endoscope2communicates with the inside of the chamber52by the steam supply check valve55. In the case of the steam supply temperature drive valve56, the steam supply check valve55can simply be read as the steam supply temperature drive valve56.

The endoscope2′ shown inFIG. 23is composed of end portions61and62, integument tubes63aand63bfixed thereto, a channel64(for example, a simulation of the channel45), both ends of which are opened at the end portions61and62and which is stored in the integument tubes63aand63b, the space portion47, and a joint portion65(a simulation of the control section8) connecting the two integument tubes63aand63bin the neighborhood of the middle portion of the channel64.

In the endoscope2shown inFIG. 22, the pressure control valve33ais disposed in the end portion62, and the steam supply check valve55is disposed in the joint portion65in the configuration shown inFIG. 23. Put another way, in the endoscope2′ according to the conventional art shown inFIG. 23, the steam supply check valve55or the steam supply temperature drive valve56is not disposed, and in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, the endoscope2′ becomes in the state of being enclosed watertightly.

In the state shown inFIG. 23, since the space portion47is an enclosed space different from the chamber52, even in the high-temperature high-pressure sterilization step, the pressure in the space portion47is not increased relative to the inside of the chamber52, and the temperature is resistant to rising as well.

Consequently, even when steam enters into the channel64after the pre-vacuum, the temperature of the steam becomes resistant to rising as the steam goes into the deep of the space portion47, that is, as the steam goes to the location farther from the end portion61and the end portion62, for example, the neighborhood of the inside of the joint portion65. This is because the temperature is readily lowered by the space portion47midway through the channel64. Therefore, it may take a significantly long time to reliably perform sterilization.

Generally in many cases, endoscopy is performed plural times in the same day and, in many cases, the endoscope used in the first inspection is reprocessed and used on several occasions in the same day. At that time, it is desired that the reprocessing can be performed promptly and reliably as much as possible.

The operations of the endoscope2shown inFIG. 22, according to the present embodiment, will be described. Since the pressure control valve33aand the steam supply check valve55are disposed, the pressure in the space portion47exhibits the behavior shown inFIG. 24.

By the pre-vacuum step, air in the space portion47is discharged from the pressure control valve33a, and a vacuum is produced, so that steam readily enters from the steam supply check valve55during the sterilization step after the pre-vacuum step.

Subsequently, steam enters from the steam supply check valve55into the space portion47in the temperature raising and heating (steam supply) step. Since the steam supply check valve55is disposed in the joint portion65close to the middle portion of the channel64, the steam entered from the steam supply check valve readily goes throughout the space portion47.

Therefore, with respect to the inside of the chamber52and the space portion47, the pressures readily become substantially equal, and substantially equivalent steam presents. Consequently, even a deep position of the channel64is applied with heat from the outside of the joint portion65at a level similar to that in the chamber52as well, so that every position in the joint portion65can be sterilized promptly. An important factor of the vent path of the pressure control valve33a, the steam supply check valve55, and the steam supply temperature drive valve56is the sizes of the steam paths thereof.

The steam path of the vent path of the pressure control valve33ais assumed to be very small (for example, a path of 0.1 mm in diameter) relative to the volume of the space portion47. As a result, the space portion47cannot synchronize to the speed of the pressure change in the chamber52, and a time lag occurs.

In the pre-vacuum step, for example, even when the state of −0.08 MPa is repeated 3 times in the chamber52, the step of pressure increase may start in the chamber52in spite of the fact that the inside of the space portion47is lowered only to −0.03 MPA, for example.

Consequently, since the inside of the space portion47is insufficiently subjected to prevacuum, the air originally present in the space portion47remains significantly, and therefore the substitution of steam may be insufficient.

In this case, if the inside of the chamber52is kept at a minimum pressure for longer time, the pressure in the space portion47becomes a similar pressure in the end. However, the increase in time is a direction opposite to the state required by the user.

Likewise, in the temperature raising and heating step and the sterilization step, if the steam path of the steam supply check valve55or the steam supply temperature drive valve56is very small, even when the inside of the chamber52reaches 0.22 MPA, the inside of the space portion47takes a long time to reach and, therefore, delays. As a result, the sterilization time (maximum temperature state) must be long-extended in order to achieve sterilization. This is a direction opposite to the state required by the user as well.

In this manner, the steam paths of the pressure control valve33a, the steam supply check valve55, and the steam supply temperature drive valve56tends to have adequately large size relative to the volume of the space portion47.

The larger size, for example, of 1 mm or more in diameter, if possible, of 5 mm or more in diameter, or of 10 mm or more in diameter, is more desirable.

If possible, the path areas of the pressure control valve33a, the steam supply check valve55, and the steam supply temperature drive valve56are larger than the clearance area of the portion having a minimum clearance among the space portion47in the inside of the endoscope2, communicating with the pressure control valve33aand the steam supply check valve55or the steam supply temperature drive valve56, because the pressure control valve33a, the steam supply check valve55, and the steam supply temperature drive valve56can be prevented from becoming a bottleneck in the path.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the steps are made to progress while the pressures in the chamber52and the space portion47in the endoscope2are always substantially equal during the pre-vacuum step and the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step. Consequently, the sterilization in the channel can be reliably performed in a minimum time.

When a filter which passes steam but does not pass objects having some extent of size is disposed in the steam paths of the pressure control valve33a, the steam path of the steam supply check valve55, and the steam supply temperature drive valve56, a lubricant used in the endoscope2, dust, and the like can be perfectly prevented from flowing to the outside during sterilization operation.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the sterilization in channels built in the endoscope2can be performed more promptly and reliably.

Fourth Embodiment

A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference toFIG. 25toFIG. 27. In the third embodiment, the steam supply check valve55or the steam supply temperature drive valve56is disposed and, thereby, high-temperature high-pressure steam is flowed into the inside of the endoscope2during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, so that the space portion47in the inside can be subjected to superheat sterilization. However, in the present fourth embodiment, an apparatus to heat the channel by heat generation is disposed.

FIG. 25schematically shows the configuration of an endoscope2B and a heat generator71built in the endoscope2B according to the fourth embodiment. In a manner substantially similar to that shown inFIG. 22, in the endoscope2B, a space portion47cut off from the outside is constructed by end portions61and62, an integument tube63which is fixed thereto and serves as an outer covering member, and a channel64, both ends of which are opened at the end portions61and62and which is stored in the integument tube63, in the inside of the endoscope2B. InFIG. 25, the integument tubes63aand63band the joint portion65shown inFIG. 22andFIG. 23are typified by the integument tube63. A pressure control valve33ais attached to the end portion62.

In the present embodiment, the heat generator71is stored in the space portion47. The heat generator71is composed of a heating wire72, a circuit power supply73, and an electric circuit75including a switch74.

When the switch74is off, the electric circuit75is interrupted by the switch74. The current from the power supply73passes through the electric circuit75while the switch74is on, and the heating wire72generates heat.

The switch74is off at normal temperatures, and is designed to be switched on when heated.

As shown inFIG. 26andFIG. 27, the switch74is made of a shape-memory alloy spring (hereafter referred to as SMA spring76), the shape of which varies in response to high temperatures, and the SMA spring76shown inFIG. 26is in the state of being disconnected from a contact77connected to the heating wire72at normal temperatures and, therefore, is off.

When the temperature becomes high, the shape of the SMA spring76varies and, thereby, the SMA spring76is brought into contact with the contact77, so that the switch74is switched on, as shown inFIG. 27. Here, a NiTi alloy is adopted as an example of the SMA spring76.

It is preferable that the switch74can be turned on at a temperature higher than the water temperature (for example, 65° C.) during the cleaning step and lower than the maximum temperature (for example, 135° C.) in the chamber52during the sterilization step. However, it is more preferable that the switch74is turned on at a temperature of 70° C. or more and 100° C. or less in order to more reliably ensure the watertightness up to the cleaning step and to open for longer time during the sterilization step. Here, the switch74is adjusted to be turned on at 75° C. or more.

The heat generator71may be disposed throughout the inside of the endoscope2B, or be disposed in a part thereof. It is desirable that the heat generator71is disposed in the neighborhood of the middle portion of the channel when disposed in a part of the inside.

The operations in the present embodiment will be described below.

In the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, the sterilization subject is heated by direct contact with steam and, thereby, is sterilized. The outer surface of the endoscope2B is brought into direct contact with steam and, thereby, is readily heated. However, the space portion47surrounded by the channel64and the outer surface of the endoscope2B is an enclosed space and, therefore, steam does not enter, so that the space portion47is resistant to being heated. Consequently, the temperature rising rate of the space portion47is lower than that of the portion brought into direct contact with steam.

On the other hand, since the end portions61and62of the channel64in the inside of the endoscope2B are opened to the space outside the endoscope2B, steam enters the channel64. However, since the temperature rising rate of the space portion47located in the periphery of the channel64is low, the heat of the steam entered into the channel64is diffused into the space portion47and, therefore, the temperature in the channel64is resistant to rising. Consequently, the sterilization tends to take time in the channel64.

Here, a case where the heat generator71is built in the inside of the endoscope2B will be described.

The heat generator71is designed to generate heat by the heat applied during the high-temperature high-pressure sterilization step.

As described above, when the temperature becomes 75° C. or more, the switch74of the heat generator71is turned on, and the heat generator71starts the heat generation. The heat delivered from the heat generator71heats the space portion47and the temperature is raised.

When the temperature of the space portion47is raised, the heat of the steam entered into the channel64is resistant to diffusing into the space portion47, or when the temperature of the space portion47becomes higher than the temperature in the channel64, the channel64can be heated by the heat in the space portion47in addition to the heat of the steam. As a result, the temperature in the channel64tends to be raised, and the sterilization tends to be performed promptly.

When the sterilization step is completed, the heating by the steam is terminated, and the space temperature in the periphery of the endoscope2B is decreased. Accompanying that, the temperature of the space portion47is lowered, and the heat generator71is also cooled. When the heat generator71is cooled and the temperature becomes lower than the switching temperature of the switch74, the switch74is turned off and the heat generator71stops the heat generation.

Since a wide range of heating can more effectively advance the sterilization, it is most desirable that the heat generator71is disposed throughout the inside of the endoscope2B. However, if the amount of built-in members in the endoscope2B is increased, there is a demerit that the endoscope2B becomes upsized. Therefore, it is desirable that the amount of built-in members in the endoscope2B is minimized. The following method is also conceived as a method for exerting the effect by disposing the heat generator71only in a part of the endoscope.

In the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, the steam is resistant to reach the portion locates farther from the opening of the channel64, that is, the deeper portion in the channel64, and therefore, the sterilization takes time. Consequently, it is desirable that the heat generator71is disposed at the location apart from the opening of the channel64, that is, in the neighborhood of the middle portion of the channel.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the sterilization of the inside of the channel64built in the endoscope2B can be performed more promptly and reliably.

Fifth Embodiment

FIG. 28schematically shows the configuration of an endoscope2C and a heat generator71C according to a fifth embodiment. The heat generator71C has a configuration in which a switch74C is adopted in place of the switch74in the heat generator71shown inFIG. 25.

The structure of the heat generator71C is equivalent to the structure shown inFIG. 25except for the switch74C.

The switch74C is off at normal pressures, and is designed to be switched on when the endoscope2C is applied with a pressure higher than normal pressures.

The switch74C is disposed on the outer surface78covered with a hard member, for example, the control section8or the connector portion10of the endoscope2C, among the constituents of the endoscope2C.

FIG. 29andFIG. 30show the configuration of the switch74C.

The switch74C is composed of a switch head79in which the top portion is exposed to an opening of the outer surface78of the endoscope2C, a switch rod80which is a conductor fixed to the switch head79, a switch holder81supporting the switch rod80, and a spring83located between the switch head79and the switch holder81.

The switch head79maintain the watertightness at the interface to the outer surface78of the control section8or connector portion10located in the periphery of the switch head79, and slides while maintaining the watertightness.

The switch head79tends to be pressed in by the pressure applied to the top portion thereof. When the elastic force of the spring83is larger than the force pressing the switch head79, the switch rod80is disconnected from the contact77constituting the circuit and, therefore, the switch74C is in the state of off, as shown inFIG. 29.

However, when a high pressure is applied to the head top portion of the switch head79during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step and the force pressing the switch head79becomes larger than the elastic force of the spring83, the switch rod80is pressed in together with the switch head79, the switch rod80is brought into contact with the contact77constituting the circuit and, therefore, the switch74C is turned on, as shown inFIG. 30.

The pressure at which the switch74C of the heat generator71C is turned on can be controlled by the use of the springs83having different elastic forces or by adjusting the spacing between the outer surface78and the switch holder81.

In order that the switch74C is not turned on in any step other than the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, preferably, the pressure at which the switch74C is turned on is adjusted at a pressure which is not applied in any step other than the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, for example, 0.3 kgf/cm2.

The switch74C must be turned on at a pressure less than or equal to the set pressure of the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization.

The switch head79and switch holder81must be an insulating material in order that no circuit current escapes when the circuit is energized.

Desirably, a cover serving for preventing the switch head79from contacting other objects is attached to the exposed portion of the switch head79in order to avoid that the switch head79is pressed in by the contact with other objects and, thereby, the switch74C is tuned on in any step other than the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step.

The operations of the present embodiment will be described below.

The heat generator71C is designed to generate heat by the pressure applied during the high-temperature high-pressure sterilization step.

A specific example will be shown. When the endoscope2C is brought into the state at a high pressure in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, the switch74C of the heat generator71C is turned on by the pressure applied to the top portion of the switch head79, and the heat generator71C starts the heat generation. The space portion47is heated by the heat generation of the heat generator71C, and the temperature is raised. As a result, the temperature in the channel64tends to be raised, and the sterilization tends to be performed promptly.

When the sterilization step is completed and the space pressure in the periphery of the endoscope is decreased, the switch74C is turned off and the heat generator71C stops the heat generation.

In the case where the switch74C is turned on due to temperature, as in the fourth embodiment, residual heat remains in the inside of the endoscope2C after the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step is completed and, thereby, the heat generator71keeps on generating heat for a while.

It is not preferable that the endoscope2C is unnecessarily heated from the viewpoint of the resistance of the endoscope2C. On the other hand, since the pressure is decreased promptly after the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step is completed, the heat generator71C stops the heat generation promptly. Therefore, it is more preferable that the switch74C is turned on due to pressure from the viewpoint of the resistance of the endoscope2C.

According to the fifth embodiment, in addition to the effects of the fourth embodiment, the sterilization can be performed while the endoscope2C is subjected to unnecessary heating to a lesser extent.

Sixth Embodiment

A sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.FIG. 31schematically shows an example of configuration of a slender insertion portion7having flexibility, or a connection cord portion9having flexibility and a heat generator71D, of the endoscope2D.

The heat generator71D is built in the endoscope2D, a control device82to control the heat generator71D is disposed in the outside and, thereby, the heat generator71D is controlled to generate heat during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step.

The insertion portion7and the control section8have a multilayer structure composed of a flex84, a braid85, and a resin86. Among them, the braid85is used as the heat generator71D.

A metal having electrical conductivity is used as the material for the braid85, and the braid is made to generate heat through the use of the property of generating heat by passing current. Specific example of materials for the braid85include nichrome alloys and stainless steels.

A part of the braid85can be electrically connected to the outside of the endoscope2D, and is connected to the control device82disposed in the outside. The control device82is designed to pass the current through the braid85during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step. The control device82may be incorporated in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus50.

If the current passing through the braid85passes through built-in members of the endoscope2D, the performance of the endoscope2D might be adversely affected. Therefore, an insulating layer may be disposed between the braid85and the built-in members of the endoscope. The flex84may be an insulating material, as an example thereof.

The current passing through the braid85must be prevented from passing to the outside of the endoscope2D. Therefore, the resin86must have an adequate thickness and the insulation resistance must be increased in order that the current passing through the braid85is prevented from leaking.

The operations of the present embodiment will be described below.

The braid85is connected to the control device82prior to the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step.

The control device82passes the current through the braid85during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, so as to generate heat. When the braid85generates heat, the space portion47is superheated, and the temperature is raised. As a result, the temperature in the channel64tends to be raised, and the sterilization tends to be performed promptly.

When the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step is completed, the control device82stops transmission of electrical energy, and the braid85stops generation of heat.

In the present embodiment, with respect to the configuration of the heat generator71D, the circuit power supply73and the switch74are disposed in the outside. Consequently, built-in members of the endoscope can be reduced, and the endoscope2D is readily miniaturized compared with that in the fourth and fifth embodiments.

In particular, in the present embodiment, since the built-in member of the conventional endoscope is used as the heat generator71D, there are advantages that the amount of built-in members of the endoscope2D is not increased, and the endoscope2D is not necessarily upsized.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, in addition to the effects of the fourth embodiment, the heat generator can be disposed without further upsizing the endoscope.

Seventh Embodiment

A seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference toFIG. 32.FIG. 32schematically shows an endoscope2E and a heat generator71E. In the present embodiment, the heat generator71E is detachably attached to the endoscope2E.

In this case, the heat generator71E has a slender shape capable of being inserted into the channel64of the endoscope2E, one end is inserted into the channel64of the endoscope2E, and the other end is connected to the control device82. The operations of the present embodiment will be described below.

The heat generator71E is inserted into the channel64prior to the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step.

In this case, it is most preferable that the heat generator71E is inserted into all channels64in the endoscope2E. However, a part of the channels64may include the heat generator71E.

The heat generator71E is controlled by the control device82in order to generate heat during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step, so that the inside of the channel64is directly superheated. As a result, the inside of the channel64tends to be promptly sterilized. In order to prevent diffusion of the heat delivered from the heat generator71E into the space portion47, it is more effective to use insulating material for the channel64.

When the heat generator71E is configured as in the present invention, the inside of the channel64is directly heated and, thereby the sterilization can be performed more promptly compared with that in the fourth embodiment to sixth embodiment in which heating of the channel64is accelerated by superheating the space portion47. Furthermore, there is a merit that the heat generator71E is disposed without the need for changing the current configuration of the endoscope2E.

Therefore, the present embodiment has an advantage that the sterilization can be performed promptly without changing the configuration of the endoscope2E in addition to the advantage of the fourth embodiment.

The present invention also includes an embodiment configured by, for example, partially combining each of the above-described third to seventh embodiments.

As described above, according to the third to seventh embodiments, the sterilization of the inside of the channel built in the endoscope can be performed more promptly and reliably. In the cleaning step as well, the cleaning step can be performed without effort while the watertightness of the space portion is maintained.

Eighth Embodiment

FIG. 33toFIG. 36show an endoscope according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 33is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of an entire endoscope system including an endoscope apparatus.FIG. 34is a diagram schematically showing a channel system of the endoscope shown inFIG. 33.FIG. 35andFIG. 36are perspective views showing the external configurations of two watertight caps used in the endoscope system shown inFIG. 33.FIG. 35shows a leak test watertight cap having a leak test base, andFIG. 36shows a steam inlet watertight cap having a clogging-detection check valve, wherein the cap can be attached to the steam inlet.

The same configurations as that in the endoscope system shown inFIG. 1according to the first embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, explanations thereof will not be provided, and different points will be primarily described.

In the present embodiment, a vent portion137is disposed in the connector portion10. The vent portion137is a communication hole which makes a space portion145in a watertightly enclosed region between the outer surfaces of the channels inserted through the inside of the endoscope2and the outer covering member (integument portion) of the endoscope2(refer toFIG. 34) communicate with the outside of the endoscope.

Furthermore, a vent portion11a(refer toFIG. 34) which makes the space portion145of the endoscope2(refer toFIG. 34) communicate with the outside of the endoscope is disposed in the electrical connector portion11, as in the vent portion137.

In the description on the present embodiment, the connector portion10has a configuration in which two vent portions are disposed to make the space portion145of the endoscope2communicate with the outside of the endoscope, but may has a configuration in which any one of the vent portions is included alone. Any one of the two vent portions11aand137is used as a communication hole for the leak test.

A leak test watertight cap133is detachably connected to the electrical connector portion11. The watertight cap133is provided with a leak test base133B and a pressure control valve, although not shown in the drawing, as described later. In the configuration in which two vent portions are disposed, a leak test watertight cap146having the configuration substantially similar to that in the leak test watertight cap133is detachably connected to the vent portion137of the connector portion10(refer toFIG. 34). The leak test watertight cap133(146) has a property of keeping the electrical connector portion11(or the vent portion137of the connector portion10) watertight when the leak test watertight cap133(146) is connected to the electrical connector portion11(or the vent portion137of the connector portion10).

In the endoscope2of the present embodiment, a steam inlet138is disposed at substantially central portion of the control section8. The steam inlet138is a communication hole which makes the space portion145in a watertightly enclosed area between the outer surfaces of the channels inserted through the inside of the endoscope2and the outer covering member (integument portion) of the endoscope2(refer toFIG. 34) communicate with the outside of the endoscope.

A steam inlet watertight cap147is detachably connected to the steam inlet138of the control section8, as described later.

The configurations of the leak test watertight cap133(146) and the steam inlet watertight cap147will be described later.

FIG. 34is a diagram schematically showing various channels built in the inside of the endoscope2.

As shown inFIG. 34, the connector portion10of the endoscope2of the present embodiment is provided with the vent portion11a(137) which is a hole or opening serving as a leak test hole making the inside of the endoscope2communicate with the outside, as described above. Through the vent portion11a(137), the outside of the endoscope2is made to communicate with the inside space portion145enclosed by the integument portion of the endoscope2. Although not shown in the drawing, a filter provided with a plurality of small holes which pass steam but do not pass objects larger than the steam may be disposed in a part of the vent portion11a(137).

The connector portion10is provided with a water supply tank-pressurizing base23, an air supply base24, a suction base25, and an injection base26, as shared holes or openings communicating with various channels built in the inside of the endoscope2. The various channels in the endoscope2are made to communicate with the outside of the endoscope2through these openings.

In the present embodiment, the steam inlet138serving as a hole or an opening making the inside of the endoscope2communicate with the outside, as described above, is disposed in the neighborhood of the center of the control section of the endoscope2. Through the steam inlet138, the outside of the endoscope2communicates with the inside space portion145enclosed by the integument portion of the endoscope2.

In the present embodiment, a filter148provided with a plurality of small holes which pass steam but do not pass objects larger than the steam, e.g., dust and a lubricant or the like in the inside of the endoscope, is disposed in a part of the steam inlet138. The filter148is detachably attached to the steam inlet138and is exchangeable. The filter148is a filter, such as a paper filter used for a sterilization package (not shown in the drawing) to perform the sterilization treatment and the like while covering the container case34storing the endoscope2. The filter148is not limited to the paper filter for a sterilization package (not shown), and other filters may be used. The filter148may be configured to include a chemical indicator or a biochemical indicator for checking the sterilization effect and, thereby, the sterilization effect may be checked when the sterilization treatment is performed.

In the present embodiment, when the sterilization treatment is performed with high-temperature high-pressure steam, the high-temperature high-pressure steam is flowed into the space portion145from the vent portion11a(137) and the steam inlet138and, thereby, the outer side of channels, e.g., the air/water supply channel or the like, communicating with the space portion145can be heated with the high-temperature high-pressure steam in a short time. That is, the sterilization effect in the channel is accelerated by heating the outer side of the channel. Furthermore, high-temperature high-pressure steam is flowed into each channel in the endoscope2from each of the openings of the above-described water supply tank-pressurizing base23, the air supply base24, the suction base25, and the injection base26and, thereby, the inside of each of channels communicating these openings can be heated with the high-temperature high-pressure steam in a short time. In this manner, the inside of the channel built in the endoscope can be promptly subjected to a sterilization treatment by heating the channel from the inside and the outside.

Each of the channels is arranged as shown inFIG. 34.

A channel139is primarily included in the insertion portion7, and a channel front end139ais opened to the outside at the distal end portion17. A channel back end139bis opened to the outside at the control section8. The channel139is a channel serving for inserting a treatment tool or for suctioning, for example.

A channel141is primarily included in the connection cord9, a channel back end141athereof is opened to the outside at the connector portion10through the suction base25. The channel141is a channel serving for suctioning, for example. A channel140is primarily included in the control section8, the channel front end thereof is shared with the channel front end139a, and is opened to the outside at the distal end portion17. The channel back end is shared with the channel back end141a, and is opened to the outside at the connector portion10through the suction base25.

When the channel back end141a(suction base25) is connected to a channel from a suction device, although not shown in the drawing, and suction operation is performed with the suction device while the channel back end139bis blocked, suction can be performed from the channel front end139athrough the route of the channel141, the channel140, and the channel139.

A channel142is primarily included in the insertion portion7, a channel front end142athereof is opened to the outside at the distal end portion17, and a channel back end143ais shared with a channel143and is opened to the outside at the connector portion10through the water supply tank-pressurizing base23and the air supply base24. The channel142is an air/water supply channel serving for supplying air or supplying water in cleaning of a lens surface of the distal end portion17, for example.

The channel143is primarily included in the connection cord9, the channel143is shared with a channel front end142a, and is opened to the outside at the distal end portion17. The channel back end143ais opened to the outside at the connector portion10through the water supply tank-pressurizing base23and the air supply base24. When air supply or water supply is performed from the channel back end143a(the water supply tank-pressurizing base23, the air supply base24), air supply or water supply can be performed from the channel front end142a.

A channel144is primarily included in the insertion portion7, the control section8, and the connection cord9, a channel front end144ais opened to the outside at the distal end portion17, and a channel back end144bis opened to the outside at the connector portion10through the injection base26. The channel144is a channel serving for supplying water frontward to supply a liquid to an observation object, for example.

As described above, in the present embodiment as well, various channels are built in the endoscope2, while fluids and the like can be inserted through the inside. Furthermore, both the insertion portion7and the connection cord9are formed from flexible members, and are not solid but hollow. Most of channels in the insertion portion7and the connection cord9are arranged in a hollow portion while being in an unfixed state in order to meet flexible movement, and the periphery of the channel is substantially space although other built-in members are present.

Outer sides of these channels (and inside of the integument of the endoscope2) in middle portions of the channels other than end portions communicate with the surrounding space portion145, and the space portion145communicates with the outside through the vent portion11a(137) and the steam inlet138. That is, the outer sides of the channels are in the state of communicating with the outside through the vent portion11a(137) and the steam inlet138communicating with the space portion145. This communication state through the vent portion11a(137) can be selected by attachment/non-attachment (detachment) of the leak test watertight cap133. The communication state through the steam inlet138can be selected by attachment/non-attachment (detachment) of the steam inlet watertight cap147.

In the present embodiment, for example, a space for forming the space portion145is ensured in the periphery of the middle portion of the path bonding one opening and another opening of some channel without filling the inside of the integument of the endoscope2with fillers and solid matters. Although various built-in members and components are present at some midpoints of the path between the space portion145and the vent portion11a(137), these are arranged in order to avoid interfering the flow of the steam. Therefore, the steam can pass through this path without being hindered.

In the endoscope2of the present embodiment, since the vent portion11a(137) and the steam inlet138are disposed, and are allowed to communicate with the space portion145in the periphery of each channel disposed in the inside of the endoscope2when the sterilization treatment is performed, the space portion145can also be adjusted to become in the pre-vacuum state during the pre-vacuum. Since channel openings, e.g., the water supply tank-pressurizing base23, the air supply base24, the suction base25, and the injection base26, are disposed, and are allowed to communicate with each of the channels disposed in the inside of the endoscope2when the sterilization treatment is performed, the inside of each channel can also be adjusted to become in the pre-vacuum state during the pre-vacuum. In the case where a leak test (water leakage test) is performed prior to performing the sterilization treatment, the leak test watertight cap133(146) is attached to the vent portion11a(137), the steam inlet watertight cap147is attached to the steam inlet138and, thereby, the vent portion11a(137) and the steam inlet138can be kept watertight when the leak test and the cleaning treatment are performed.

Consequently, in the following high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization step of the endoscope2, the space portion145in the outside of the channel as well as the inside of the channel can be supplied and filled in with high-temperature high-pressure steam and, thereby, the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment can be completed in a short time.

The configurations of the leak test watertight cap133(146) and the steam inlet watertight cap147will be described below with reference toFIG. 35.

As shown inFIG. 35, the leak test watertight cap133(146) is a conventionally used cap, and includes a watertight cap main body133A (146A) to keep the vent portion11a(137) watertight and a leak test base133B (146B) which is disposed on the side surface of the watertight cap main body133A (146A) and which is to be connected to a tube from a pressure pump, although not shown in the drawing, during the leak test. The leak test base133B (146B) has an opening133a(146a), and the opening133a(146a) communicates with the vent portion11a(137) through a pressure control valve (not shown in the drawing) disposed in the inside and the watertight cap main body133A (146A).

With respect to the leak test watertight cap133(146), in the leak test of the endoscope2, the tube from a pressure pump not shown in the drawing is connected to the leak test base133B, and the air from the pressure pump is supplied to the inside of the endoscope2through the leak test base133B and the watertight cap main body133A.

The leak test watertight cap133(146) is provided with identification means133C (146C) which makes the operator possible to distinguish from the steam inlet watertight cap147. The identification means133C (146C) is formed by applying a color member, e.g., green, to all around the outer circumference of or a part of the watertight cap main body133A (146A).

On the other hand, as shown inFIG. 36, the newly disposed steam inlet watertight cap147includes a watertight cap main body147A to keep the steam inlet138watertight and a clogging-detection check valve147B which is disposed on the side surface of the watertight cap main body147A and which is to determine the presence or absence of clogging in the filter148(refer toFIG. 34) during the leak test.

The clogging-detection check valve147B has an opening147a, and the opening147acommunicates with the steam inlet138through a pressure control valve (not shown in the drawing) disposed in the inside and the watertight cap main body147A.

The steam inlet watertight cap147is provided with identification means147C which makes the operator possible to distinguish from the leak test watertight cap133(146). The identification means147C is formed by applying a color member, e.g., red, to all around the outer circumference of or a part of the watertight cap main body147A.

Therefore, the operator can distinguish the leak test watertight cap133(146) from the steam inlet watertight cap147at first sight by the identification means133C (146C) and147C.

In the present embodiment, the identification means are not limited to color members, e.g., green and red. Any method may be used as long as, for example, the operator can identify the types thereof at first sight.

As shown inFIG. 36, the clogging-detection check valve147B of the steam inlet watertight cap147may be disposed on the top surface of the watertight cap main body147A. In this case, the clogging-detection check valve147bmay be disposed on the top surface of the watertight cap main body147A, and in addition to this, the clogging-detection check valve147B may be constructed so as to communicate with the steam inlet138and serve as a base for pressurizing to detect clogging in the filter.

The operations of the endoscope system of the present embodiment will be described below with reference toFIG. 33toFIG. 36.

It is assumed that cleaning is performed after the inspection of the endoscope2of the present embodiment.

In this case, the leak test watertight cap133(146) is attached to the vent portion11a(137), and simultaneously, the steam inlet watertight cap147is attached to the steam inlet138. The tube of the pressure pump not shown in the drawing is connected to the leak test base133B (146B), and the endoscope2after inspection is stored in a cleaning apparatus.

In the present embodiment, since the leak test watertight cap133(146) and the steam inlet watertight cap147are attached, the cleaning liquid and the like do not enter the inside of the endoscope during the cleaning. Since the steam inlet watertight cap147is provided with the identification means147C formed by a color member, e.g., very prominent red or the like, missing the operation of attaching the cap by the operator may be avoided.

Subsequently, the operator performs the leak test of the endoscope2under that condition. In this case, the operator can perform the leak test following the same procedure used conventionally and, therefore, the operator can perform the leak test without having an uncomfortable feeling.

Here, in the present embodiment, when the pressure required for the leak test is taken as P1, a maximum set pressure of a leak test apparatus (a pressure pump and the like, although not shown in the drawing) is taken as P2, and the opening pressure of the clogging-detection check valve147B is taken as P3, the various components are adjusted to satisfy the relationship P1<P3<P2in the endoscope system of the present embodiment.

Therefore, the operator initially sets the pressure of the leak test apparatus (not shown in the drawing) at the P1, checks that no water leakage is recognized, and changes the set pressure to the pressure P3or more with no further operation. In this case, if the filter148is not clogged, the clogging-detection check valve147B is opened at this time, so that air is discharged from the opening147aof the clogging-detection check valve147B.

On the other hand, if the filter is clogged, air is not adequately supplied to the steam inlet watertight cap147and, therefore, this clogging-detection check valve is not opened, so that air is not discharged.

As described above, the operator can perform the leak test and check of the clogging of the filter148by substantially the same operation as the conventionally performed operation.

After the leak test, the operator subjects the endoscope2to cleaning with a cleaning apparatus while the leak test watertight cap133(146) and the steam inlet watertight cap147are attached to the endoscope2. In this case, the operator can perform a cleaning treatment without having any uncomfortable feeling since the treatment is performed as in the conventional cleaning treatment.

After the cleaning treatment, the operator detaches the steam inlet watertight cap147from the steam inlet138and, thereafter, puts the endoscope2into the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus. In this case, the leak test watertight cap133(146) may be detached or may not be detached as long as the cap has resistance against the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization. Since most of conventional leak test watertight caps have no resistance against the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization, it is desirable that the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization is performed after the cap is detached. In the present embodiment, the leak test watertight cap133(146) and the steam inlet watertight cap147are provided with identification means133C (146C) and147C which can be distinguished from each other by, for example, color, in order that the operator can readily identify, and the watertight caps are disposed at different locations. Therefore, the operator is prevented from misidentifying the watertight caps.

With respect to the endoscope2, during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment, steam enters the inside of the endoscope (space portion145) from the steam inlet138(when the leak test watertight cap133(146) is detached, from the vent portion11a(137) as well). Consequently, the outer surfaces and the like of various channels139to144inserted through the inside of the endoscope2can be heated promptly and, thereby, the sterilization in each channel can be performed more promptly than ever. Since the steam inlet138is disposed in the neighborhood of the center of the control section8, steam readily enters the inside of the endoscope (space portion145). Furthermore, since the outer surface in the periphery of the central portion of the path bonding one opening and another opening of the channel is also heated promptly, the central portion of the channel which has conventionally taken longer time can be subjected to a sterilization treatment promptly.

In the present embodiment, since the filter148is disposed in a part of the steam inlet138, any lubricant or the like do not flows out of the inside of the endoscope during the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization treatment. Conversely, any dust or the like do not enter from the outside of the endoscope.

In the present embodiment, since the vent portion11aserving as the leak test hole is a conventionally used leak test hole, the diameter thereof is a very small 1 mm, for example. However, the steam inlet138is disposed separately from the vent portion11aand, therefore, the steam inlet138may be designed to be of a size adequate for entrance of the steam, for example, to have the diameter of 9 mm.

In the configuration of the present embodiment, when the vent portion11ais disposed as the leak test hole, the vent portion137may be used not for the leak test hole, but for a steam inlet. The steam inlet138may be disposed in a portion other than the control section8, if necessary. Alternatively, a plurality of steam inlets may be disposed.

Since the periphery of the electrical connector portion11including the vent portion11aas the leak test hole has substantially the same configuration as the conventional configuration, the system, for example, the leak test watertight cap133, connected to the electrical connector portion11is compatible with the conventional system, and fresh component is not necessarily disposed. Therefore, reduction in cost can be expected.

Consequently, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, in addition to the communication hole serving for the leak test, another steam inlet communicating with the inside of the endoscope is disposed and, thereby, sterilization of the inside of the channel built in the endoscope can be performed more promptly than ever.

As described above, the endoscope apparatus of the present embodiment has the configuration in which in addition to the communication hole serving for the leak test, another steam inlet communicating with the inside of the endoscope is disposed and, thereby, there is an advantage that sterilization of the inside of the channel built in the endoscope can be performed more promptly than ever.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described plural embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention.