Apparatus for washing and disinfecting/sterilizing an endoscope

Abstract: A washing vessel (1) capable of housing an endoscope (a) is formed in an apparatus body. A washing solution containing a detergent is spurted against the endoscope (a) arranged within the washing vessel (1) for washing the endoscope (a). Also, an oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution is supplied into the washing vessel (1) for disinfecting-sterilizing (21) the endoscope (a) after the washing step together with the washing vessel (1).

Description: The present invention relates to an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1 and also a method for washing-disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 11. An endoscope for a medical treatment must be washed, disinfected and sterilized every time the endoscope is used. In the conventional washing-disinfecting apparatus, the endoscope is set in a washing vessel and, then, a washing solution is spurted from a spurting nozzle mounted within the washing vessel against the endoscope. At the same time, the washing solution is supplied into the tubular passageway of the endoscope so as to wash the endoscope. Then, the endoscope is dipped in a disinfecting-sterilizing solution, and the solution is supplied into the tubular passageway of the endoscope so as to disinfect and sterilize the endoscope. Further, a clean water is spurted against the endoscope and supplied into the tubular passageway of the endoscope so as to perform rinsing. Finally, air is supplied into the tubular passageway of the endoscope so as to dry the inner space of the tubular passageway. It is also known to the art that, in place of using a spurting nozzle, the endoscope is dipped in a washing solution stored in a washing vessel so as to wash the endoscope. In another type of the apparatus, a warm water is spurted from a spurting nozzle for washing the endoscope, followed by spurting from a spurting nozzle a disinfecting-sterilizing solution against the endoscope so as to disinfect and sterilize the endoscope. In the former apparatus for washing and sterilizing the endoscope, glutaric aldehyde is used as a disinfecting-sterilizing agent. This sterilizing agent produces prominent function of sterilizing various bacteria and viruses, but requires a long treating time. For example, the sterilizing agent is said to require 45 minutes of the disinfecting time and 10 hours of the sterilizing time. Therefore, in inspections in which sufficient treating time cannot be allowed, it is unavoidable to shorten the treating time, leading to insufficient disinfecting-sterilizing effect. Alternatively, the number of inspections must be decreased. Also, the disinfecting-sterilizing agent of glutaric aldehyde must be diluted in advance to have a predetermined concentration, and the diluted disinfecting-sterilizing agent must be injected in an amount of about 20l (liters) into the washing-disinfecting apparatus. In performing the injecting operation, an activating agent is added to about 3 to 5l of the disinfecting-sterilizing solution, followed by shaking the resultant solution 4 to 6 times and subsequently injecting the solution into the washing-disinfecting apparatus. These operations give a big burden to the user. In the latter apparatus for washing and sterilizing an endoscope, the washing solution and the disinfecting-sterilizing solution are used in a warmed condition. Naturally, the warming takes a long time, leading to a long washing-disinfecting time. Also, requirement of the warming means leads to a high washing-disinfecting cost. Further, in order to allow the spurted disinfecting-sterilizing agent to permeate into the endoscope without fail, the endoscope must be set over a large space so as to prevent parts of the endoscope from overlapping each other. As a result, the washing-disinfecting apparatus is rendered bulky. It should also be noted that the disinfecting-sterilizing agent, which is spurted, is unlikely to permeate into fine portions of the endoscope, making it necessary to perform the disinfecting-sterilizing step for a long time. A disinfecting-sterilizing agent of glutaric aldehyde type is also used in the washing-disinfecting apparatus of this type. Since the disinfecting-sterilizing agent must be warmed, the agent is promptly deteriorated, making it necessary to discard the remaining agent every day. As a result, the running cost is increased. The endoscope includes various kinds including, for example, an endoscope for stomach, an endoscope for duodenum, an endoscope for large intestine, and an endoscope for bronchia. The endoscope for stomach does not include a special tubular passageway. Also, the tubular passageway is short and has an appropriate thickness. Therefore, the washing and water removal can be performed in a short time. On the other hand, the endoscope for duodenum has a very thin tubular passageway and requires a long washing time, making it necessary to use a pipe for rising up forceps. Also, it is necessary to introduce a high pressure air into the tubular passageway for removing water. The endoscope for large intestine includes a long inserting section and a thick tubular passageway, making it necessary to wash the endoscope and remove water from the endoscope carefully and sufficiently. Further, the endoscope for bronchia has a fine tubular passageway. The endoscope can be washed easily in a short time. Also, water removal from the endoscope can be performed easily. However, the tubercle bacillus attached to the bronchia has a high resistance to chemicals, making it necessary to carry out the disinfection-sterilization for a long time. As described above, the endoscopes quite differ from each other in construction depending on the kind. If these endoscopes are washed and sterilized under the same conditions, the washing-disinfecting is insufficient in some kinds of the endoscopes and is excessive in other kinds of the endoscopes so as to give detrimental effects to the endoscopes. Also, it is undesirable in economy to perform an excessive washing-disinfecting operation. The conventional apparatus for washing-disinfecting an endoscope comprises a washing vessel and holding sections mounted within the washing vessel for holding a plurality of endoscopes. A detection switch is mounted to each of the holding sections. If endoscopes to be washed are set on the holding sections within the washing vessel, the detection switches are turned on so as to detect the kind of the endoscope based on the number of endoscopes set on the holding sections, the thickness of the inserting section of the endoscope, etc. Also, the treating times for the washing, disinfecting-sterilizing, rinsing and water-removing steps are set in accordance with the number and kinds of endoscopes. In the conventional apparatus, however, the washing-disinfecting conditions are set on the basis of the number of endoscopes set in the washing vessel. Also, the washing-disinfecting conditions are set by detecting the kind of the endoscope depending on the thickness of the endoscope. In the conventional apparatus, it is certainly possible to detect the kinds of the endoscopes such as those for stomach, for duodenum, for large intestine or for bronchia. However, new endoscopes differing from the conventional endoscopes in thickness, shape and construction are being developed successively, making it difficult to detect accurately the kind of the endoscope. It should also be noted that the washing vessel, particularly the ceiling of the washing vessel, is contaminated during the washing step of the endoscope, making it necessary to wash the ceiling of the washing vessel in washing the endoscope. Therefore, a nozzle for washing the ceiling is also mounted within the washing vessel to allow the washing solution to be spurted from the nozzle against the ceiling of the washing vessel. Incidentally, the washing solution used for washing the endoscope and the ceiling is circulated by using a pump so as to use again the washing solution for the washing purpose in view of the running cost and the environmental problem. Since the washing solution used for washing the endoscope is used again for washing the ceiling of the washing vessel, it is possible for the washing solution of the ceiling to contain a large amount of contaminants such as bacteria. Naturally, these contaminants tend to be blown against the ceiling together with the washing solution. Also, if the pressure for spurting the washing solution against the ceiling is not sufficiently high, it is impossible to wash away sufficiently the contaminants such as bacteria attached to the ceiling of the washing vessel. It is also difficult to remove sufficiently the washing solution attached to the ceiling in the rising step for removing the washing solution. Needless to say, the ceiling of the washing vessel must be kept clean. Otherwise, the contaminants such as bacteria attached to the ceiling tend to be transferred onto the endoscope set in the washing vessel. It follows that the endoscope once washed and disinfected tends to be contaminated again. Under the circumstances, the washing vessel is not washed in the washing step by the washing means mounted within the washing vessel, and the washing of the washing vessel by the washing means mounted within the washing vessel is performed after the washing step so as to remove without fail the contaminants attached to the ceiling of the washing vessel and, thus, to prevent the endoscope from being contaminated with the contaminants coming from the ceiling. However, the wall or ceiling of the washing vessel has a large area, making it difficult to spray uniformly the wall or ceiling with the washing solution. Also, it is necessary to use an additional equipment for the spraying, leading to a high apparatus cost and to a complex structure of the apparatus. An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus as defined in appended claim 1 and method as defined in appended claim 11 for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope in a short time without fail. According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope, comprising a vessel in which an endoscope can be mounted, washing solution supply means for supplying a washing solution for washing an endoscope into the vessel, washing means for washing the endoscope mounted within the vessel with the washing solution, and disinfecting-sterilizing solution supply means for supplying an oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution into the vessel, wherein the endoscope mounted within the vessel is disinfected and sterilized with the oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of washing-disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope, comprising the steps of supplying a washing solution into a vessel having an endoscope mounted therein for washing the endoscope, and supplying an oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution into the vessel so as to disinfect-sterilize the endoscope with the disinfecting-sterilizing solution. In the method of the present invention, the entire endoscope is washed with a washing solution containing as a main component an alkaline or enzyme-based detergent, followed by disinfecting-sterilizing the entire endoscope with an oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution. The oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution exhibits a high sterilizing power, making it possible to shorten markedly the time for the disinfecting-sterilizing step, compared with use of the conventional disinfecting-sterilizing solution. This summary of the invention does not necessarily describe all necessary features so that the invention may also be a sub-combination of these described features. This invention can be more fully understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 shows the entire construction of an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIGS. 2A to 2C show the arrangement of solution bottles used in the apparatus according to the present invention; FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the operation of the apparatus according to the present invention; FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing the operation of the apparatus according to the present invention; FIG. 5 shows the entire construction of an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 6 shows the construction of an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 7 is a side view showing a disinfecting nozzle included in the apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view showing in a magnified fashion a portion XIV shown in FIG. 12; FIGS. 9A to 9D show modifications of the apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 10 shows the construction of an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 11 shows the construction of an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to a eighth embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 12 shows the construction of an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention; FIGS. 13A to 13C collectively show the construction of an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 14 shows the construction of a channel connector included in an apparatus according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 15 shows a detector for detecting an abnormality of a tubular passageway, etc. included in an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope. Let us describe an apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. Specifically, FIG. 1 shows the entire construction of the apparatus. As shown in the drawing, an endoscope a is arranged inside a washing vessel 1. A vibrating plate 2 provided with a Ranjuban type ultrasonic oscillator is arranged within the washing vessel 1. An ultrasonic vibration is oscillated from the vibrating plate 2 into the washing liquid housed in the washing vessel 1 so as to wash the outer surface of the endoscope a including fine clearances formed in the outer surface. A tower 3 is arranged in a central portion of the washing vessel 1 for decreasing the amount of the washing solution housed in the washing vessel 1. The upper open portion of the washing vessel 1 is closed by a lid 1b having a packing 1a extending along the outer circumferential surface so as to keep the washing vessel liquid-tight and gas-tight. Also arranged within the washing vessel 1 is a washing solution nozzle 4a communicating with the discharge port of a washing solution pump 4 via a washing solution tubular passageway 10. A high pressure washing solution is spurted from the nozzle 4a so as to wash the outer surface of the endoscope a . Further, a washing water nozzle 5 for supplying city water into the washing vessel 1 is arranged near the washing solution nozzle 4a. The nozzle 5 is connected to a plug 6 of city water with a bacteria-removing filter 7 interposed therebetween. A tubular passageway 9 for washing the inner passageway of the endoscope and the washing solution tubular passageway 10 are mounted to the washing-disinfecting apparatus body. The suction sides of these tubular passageways 9 and 10 communicate with a circulating liquid suction port 11 at the bottom portion of the washing vessel 1. The other end of the tubular passageway 9 for washing the inner passageway of the endoscope is connected to a pump 12 for washing the inner passageway of the endoscope. The pump 12 is connected to a channel connection port 13 with a check valve 15a interposed therebetween. The channel connection port 13 is connected to various channels within the endoscope a via a tube 14 for washing the inner passageway of the endoscope. Further, an air supply tubular passageway 16 is connected to the tubular passageway 9 for washing the inner passageway of the endoscope, said tubular passageway 9 being connected to the channel connection port 13. As shown in the drawing, a check valve 15b is mounted to the air supply tubular passageway 16. Still further, a compressor 17 is connected to the air supply tubular passageway 16. It follows that the compressed air is supplied from the compressor 17 into the various channel connection port 13 of the endoscope a so as to remove water from within the endoscope a . Bottles 19 housing concentrated disinfecting-sterilizing agents are set above a disinfecting solution tank 18. A single or a plurality of bottles 19 are set above the tank 18 depending on the kinds of the concentrated disinfecting-sterilizing agents. The disinfecting-sterilizing solution is an oxide-based disinfecting solution containing as a main component acetic peracid or hydrogen peroxide. For preparing the disinfecting-sterilizing solution, a single or a plurality of chemicals are mixed and, then, diluted with clean water to activate the solution so as to allow the diluted solution to produce a sterilizing effect. Various types of disinfecting-sterilizing solutions are used in the present invention including, for example, a combination of a main agent 19a and an activating agent 19b as shown in FIG. 2A, a combination of two kinds of main agents 19c as shown in FIG. 2B, and a combination of two kinds of main agents 19c and the activating agent 19b as shown in FIG. 2C. Electromagnetic valves 20a, 20b mounted to the bottles 19 are opened to permit the concentrated chemicals housed in the bottles 19 to fall gravitationally into the disinfecting-sterilizing solution tank 18, followed by operating a button of a main panel so as to prepare a desired disinfecting-sterilizing solution. Float switches 33a, 33b are mounted in the disinfecting-sterilizing tank 18, and a water-supply valve 31 consisting of an electromagnetic valve is mounted to a tubular passageway for supplying water into the disinfecting-sterilizing tank 18. As shown in FIG. 3, the float switches 33a, 33b are connected to a control section CS to allow the electromagnetic valves 20a, 20b and the water supply valve 31 to be tumed on or off by a signal generated from the float switches 33a, 33b. To be more specific, when the electromagnetic valves 20a, 20b are turned on (step S1), the concentrated disinfecting-sterilizing solution falls into the disinfecting-sterilizing tank 18, followed by changing-over the water supply valve 31 on the tank side (step S2). Then, the water supply valve 31 is turned on, with the result that city water is supplied through the water supply filter 7 into the disinfecting-sterilizing tank 18 (step S3). Then, the float switch 33a within the disinfecting-sterilizing tank 18 is turned on (step S4). When a predetermined water level is reached, the water supply valve 31 is closed (step S5). In this fashion, the disinfecting-sterilizing solution of a predetermined concentration is prepared. Incidentally, the float switch 33b is for detecting an abnormal water level and, thus, is not used in the ordinary operation. Where the sterilization is performed by using warmed chemicals and the chemicals are discarded after use, it suffices to mix the concentrated solutions of the chemicals within the disinfecting solution tank 18 without diluting the disinfecting-sterilizing solution in advance. In other words, water need not be supplied into the disinfecting solution tank 18. In this case, the concentrated disinfecting-sterilizing solution is supplied into the washing vessel 1 when the disinfecting-sterilizing operation is started, followed by supplying warm water into the washing vessel 1 so as to prepare the disinfecting-sterilizing solution. Incidentally, it is possible to supply the concentrated disinfecting-sterilizing chemicals from the bottles of the concentrated chemicals directly into the washing vessel 1. Various forms of chemicals may be housed in the bottles 19 shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C. These chemicals may be in the form of, for example, a liquid, a powder or a solid. The chemicals used in the present invention produce a disinfecting capability (capability of killing harmful bacteria) at room temperature or a sterilizing capability (capability of killing all the bacteria) at room temperature. Alternatively, these chemicals produce a sterilizing capability when warmed. It follows that, where it suffices to obtain a disinfecting effect, the disinfection is performed at room temperature. The concentrated chemicals are set in a predetermined upper portion within the bottle 19 so as to fall gravitationally into the disinfecting solution tank 18 when the electromagnetic valves 20a, 20b are turned on. Then, a button of the main panel is operated so as to introduce automatically city water or warm water into the disinfecting solution tank 18 so as to prepare a disinfecting-sterilizing solution of a practical concentration. It should be noted that the tubular passageway connected to the disinfecting solution tank 18 communicates with the washing vessel 1 via a pump 21. A vapor component removing member 22 consisting of, for example, an activated carbon filter is mounted at the portion where the disinfecting-sterilizing solution communicates with the outside. Also, an alkali-based detergent or an enzyme-based detergent is housed in a detergent bottle 23. A tubular passageway connected to the detergent bottle 23 communicates with the washing vessel 1 via a pump 24. It should be noted that the alkali-based detergent or enzyme-based detergent serves to remove organic substances such as proteins and blood. On the other hand, the oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing agent such as acetic peracid serves to remove inorganic substances such as calcium carbonate. A drain pipe 28 is connected at one end to the waste water discharge port of the washing vessel 1 and extends to permit the other end to be positioned outside the apparatus via a drain pipe 29. The apparatus of the first embodiment, which is constructed as described above, is operated as follows. Specifically, when the washing-disinfecting apparatus body is used, a used endoscope a is set within the washing vessel 1, and the tube 14 for washing the fluid passageway within the endoscope is connected at one end to the endoscope a and at the other end to the channel connecting port 13. Then, various switches (not shown) are operated to perform the steps of washing, disinfecting-sterilizing, rinsing, air blowing, etc. In the washing step, the water supply valve 31 is opened so as to supply washing water such as city water from the water supply source into the washing vessel 1 through the bacteria-removing filter 7 and the water supply tubular passageway. Also, the detergent supply pump 24 is operated to supply the detergent within the detergent bottle 23 into the washing vessel 1. When the washing water supplied into the washing vessel 1 has reached a predetermined water level, the water supply valve 31 is closed so as to start the washing operation. In the washing step, an ultrasonic wave washing and the washing with the circulating washing water spurted from the spurting port are carried out independently or simultaneously. Further, the pump 12 for washing the tubular passageway within the endoscope is operated so as to pressurize the washing solution within the washing vessel 1. As a result, the pressurized washing solution is supplied into all the tubular passageways within the endoscope 1. In this case, the pump operation is controlled to permit the flowing speed of the washing solution within at least the suction tubular passageway of the endoscope a to be at least 100 cm/sec. A rinsing step is performed after completion of the washing step. Specifically, clean water is introduced into the washing vessel after discharge of the washing solution so as to carry out the rinsing operation once or twice. In the latter half of the rinsing operation, the pump 12 for washing the tubular passageway within the endoscope is stopped, and the compressor 17 is turned on. As a result, air is introduced through the channel connecting port 13 into various channels of the endoscope a so as to remove water from within the channels of the endoscope a . Then, the disinfecting-sterilizing step is performed after completion of the rinsing step. In the disinfecting-sterilizing step, the oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing agent within the disinfecting solution tank 18 is supplied into the washing vessel 1 through the disinfecting solution supply tubular passageway. As a result, the endoscope a is completely dipped in the disinfecting solution stored in the washing vessel 1. At the same time, the pump 12 for washing the tubular passageway of the endoscope is operated so as to supply the disinfecting-sterilizing solution within the washing vessel 1 into the tubular passageway of the endoscope so as to disinfect and sterilize the endoscope a . The valve is opened a predetermined time later so as to recover the disinfecting-sterilizing solution in the disinfecting solution tank 18. The disinfecting-sterilizing solution thus recovered is used repeatedly as far as the solution produces the disinfecting-sterilizing effect. After completion of the disinfecting-sterilizing step, the rinsing step is performed again. After completion of the rinsing step, the water removing operation is carried out so as to remove water completely from within the endoscope a . As described above, the apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention makes it possible to disinfect and sterilize the endoscope without fail in a short time so as to lessen markedly the burden of the user. FIG. 5 shows an apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Those members of the apparatus which are common with the members in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals so as to omit an overlapping description. In the apparatus of the second embodiment, the city water and a warm water from a warm water supply equipment can be supplied to the washing vessel 1 so as to prepare a disinfecting solution based on the warm water. As shown in FIG. 5, a water supply valve 40a consisting of an electromagnetic valve is mounted o a tubular passageway connected to the water cock 6. Also, a warm water supply valve 40b consisting of an electromagnetic valve is mounted to the tubular passageway connected to a warm water supply equipment 8. These water supply valve 40a and the warm water supply valve 40b are connected to the control section CS. Temperature sensors 41a, 41b are mounted to the tubular passageways connected to the city water cock 6 and the warm water supply equipment 8, respectively. Also, temperature sensors 42, 43 are mounted to the washing vessel 1 and the disinfecting solution tank 18, respectively. Further, a flow meter 44 for measuring the water amount flowing into the disinfecting solution tank 18 is connected to the tubular passageway 20, which is connected at one end to the tank 18 and at the other end to the city water cock 6 and the warm water supply equipment 8. Heaters 45 and 46 for heating the washing solution and the disinfecting-sterilizing solution housed in the washing vessel 1 and the disinfecting solution tank 18 are mounted within the washing vessel 1 and the tank 18, respectively. These temperature sensors 42, 43, flow meter 44 and heaters 45, 46 are connected to the control section CS. Incidentally, each of the disinfecting solution tank 18 and the washing vessel 1 is formed of a material resistant to chemicals and heat such as stainless steel, polyethylene or polypropylene. The control section CS, which is connected to the temperature sensors 41a, 41b, detects the temperature of the city water supplied from the city water cock 6 and the temperature of the warm water supplied from the warm water supply equipment 8. If the temperature of the disinfecting solution is set by an operator in the control section CS, the mixing ratio of the city water to the warm water is determined in the control section CS based on the temperatures set for the disinfecting solution, for the city water and for the warm water supplied from the warm water supply equipment. Then, the required amounts of the city water and warm water are calculated based on the mixing ratio thus determined and the volume of the disinfecting solution tank 18. In the next step, the control section CS permits the water supply valve 40a to be opened based on the calculation so as to supply the city water. In this step, the supply amount of the city water is calculated on the basis of the indication of the flow meter 53. When a required amount of the city water has been supplied into the disinfecting solution tank 18, the city water supply valve 40a is closed so as to stop supplying the city water. Then, the warm water supply valve 40b is opened so as to supply a warm water. In this step, the supply amount of the warm water is calculated on the basis of the indication of the flow meter 44. When a required amount of the warm water has been supplied into the disinfecting solution tank 18, the warm water supply valve 40b is closed so as to stop supplying the warm water. At the same time, the electromagnetic valves 20a, 20b are operated by the control section CS so as to supply the concentrated disinfecting-sterilizing agent into the warm water within the disinfecting solution tank 18, thereby preparing a diluted disinfecting-sterilizing solution. During preparation of the diluted disinfecting-sterilizing solution, the heaters 45 and 46 within the washing vessel 1 and the disinfecting solution tank 18 are controlled by the control section CS so as to maintain constant the temperature of the washing solution and the disinfecting-sterilizing solution, respectively. The apparatus of the second embodiment is equal to that of the first embodiment in the other respects. The apparatus of the second embodiment permits disinfecting and sterilizing the endoscope without fail in a short time. In addition, the burden of the operator can be markedly lessened. It should be noted in particular that, in the apparatus of the second embodiment, a warm water equipment is arranged outside the apparatus body, making it unnecessary to prepare a warm water within the apparatus body. It follows that it suffices to use a small heater as far as the temperature of the disinfecting-sterilizing solution can be maintained at a predetermined level. FIGS. 6 to 8 show an apparatus according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Those members of the apparatus of the present embodiment which are common with the members of the apparatus of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals so as to omit the overlapping description. As shown in FIG. 6, a top cover 81, which forms the ceiling of the washing vessel 1 and which can be opened, is mounted to close partially the upper opening of the washing vessel 1 having the endoscope a disposed therein. The top cover 81 is opened when the endoscope a is set in the washing vessel 1. A nozzle-mounting table 83 is formed in a part of the upper peripheral portion of the washing vessel 1. Various nozzles such as a washing solution nozzle 4a, a washing water nozzle 5, a disinfecting solution nozzle 84 and an air-release nozzle 85 are mounted to the nozzle-mounting table 83. In order to prevent the washing water or the disinfecting solution from flowing backward out of the washing vessel 1, these nozzles must be mounted at a position higher than the liquid level within the washing vessel 1. To meet this requirement, the nozzle-mounting table 83 having a reasonable height is formed in a part of the washing vessel 1, and the nozzles are mounted to the table 83. As shown in FIG. 7, the disinfecting solution nozzle 84 consists of a pipe bent in an inverted J-shape and includes a slit 84a formed in the upper portion of the bent pipe such that the disinfecting-sterilizing agent is partly spurted upward from the slit 84a. The nozzle 4a for the washing solution is connected to the discharge port of the washing solution pump 4 via the tubular passageway 10. On the other hand, the suction port of the pump 4 is connected to the circulating solution suction port 11 formed at a bottom portion of the washing vessel 1. Also, the channel connection port 13 connected to the tube 14 for washing the tubular passageway within the endoscope is formed in a tower 3 arranged within the washing vessel 1. Further, a discharge port 86 is formed in a bottom portion of the washing vessel 1. The disinfecting solution tank 18 is connected to the disinfecting solution nozzle 84 via a tubular passageway 88 having a pump 87 mounted thereto. The disinfecting-sterilizing agent stored in the tank 18 is supplied into the washing vessel 1 by the sucking function of the pump 87. Also, a tubular passageway 90 for circulating the disinfecting solution and the tubular passageway 28 for the waste solution are connected to a tubular passageway extending from the discharge port 86 with a tubular passageway change-over switch 89 interposed therebetween. The tubular passageway 90 is connected to the disinfecting solution tank 18 so as to recover the disinfecting-sterilizing agent from the washing vessel 1 into the disinfecting solution tank 18. The top cover 81 covering the open portion of the washing vessel 1 comprises a planar portion 81a contacting the liquid surface when the washing vessel 1 is filled with the washing solution or the disinfecting-sterilizing agent and a projecting portion 81b covering the nozzles 4a, 5, 84, 85 mounted to the nozzle-mounting table 83 and positioned higher than the liquid surface. The top cover 81 is swingably mounted to an upper peripheral portion of the washing vessel 1 by a hinge (not shown) such that the top cover 81 can be opened or closed. Further, a horizontal supporting portion 1c for supporting an outer peripheral portion 81c of the top cover 81 is formed on the upper peripheral portion 1b of the washing vessel 1, as shown in FIG. 14. Also, a rising portion ld is formed to project upward from the outer circumferential portion of the supporting portion 1c. Further, a packing 91 is interposed between the outer peripheral portion 81c of the top cover 81 and the horizontal supporting portion 1c so as to keep the washing vessel 1 liquid-tight. It should be noted that the top cover 81 is locked to the washing vessel 1 by a clamp mechanism (not shown). Let us describe the function of the apparatus according to the present embodiment of the present invention. In the first step, a used endoscope a is set in the washing vessel 1, and the endoscope a is connected to the channel connection port 13 via the tube 14 for washing the tubular passageway of the endoscope. Then, the top cover 81 is closed to make the washing vessel 1 completely liquid-tight, followed by operating the various switches (not shown) so as to perform automatically the steps of washing, disinfecting-sterilizing, rinsing and air-blowing. In the washing step, the water supply valve 6a is opened to supply the washing water from the city water cock 6 into the washing vessel 1 through the washing water nozzle 5. Incidentally, a predetermined amount of a detergent is supplied into the washing vessel 1 before the washing step. When a predetermined amount of water is supplied into the washing vessel 1, the water supply valve 6a is closed, followed by driving the pump 4 for circulating the washing water and the pump 12 for washing the tubular passageways of the endoscope. As a result, the washing water within the washing vessel 1 is partly blown at a high pressure against the outer surface of the endoscope a and circulated through the washing water tubular passageway 82 into the tubular passageways of the endoscope a . To be more specific, the washing water within the washing vessel 1 is sucked through the suction port 11 of the circulating water by the function of the pump 4 so as to be spurted from the washing water spurting nozzle 4a through the washing water tubular passageway 10. Also, the washing water sucked by the function of the pump 4 is sucked partly by the function of the pump 12 so as to be supplied to the channel connection port 13 through the tubular passageway 82. Then, the washing water is supplied from the channel connection port 13 into the tubular passageways within the endoscope a . It should be noted that the washing water supplied into the tubular passageways within the endoscope a is brought back into the washing vessel 1 through an opening at the distal end of the endoscope a . The large stains, soft stains and light stains attached to the endoscope a are washed away by the circulation of the washing water described above. Particularly, these stains are peeled off the outer surface of the endoscope a by the impact of the washing water spurted from the washing water nozzle 4a or by the eddy current formed within the washing vessel 1 by the spurting of the washing water noted above. After the washing with the washing water, which is continued for a predetermined time, the vibrating plate 2 is operated so as to carry out an ultrasonic washing. In the ultrasonic washing, the stains firmly attached to the endoscope a and the stains attached to those portions of the endoscope a which are shaped complex are removed by the ultrasonic vibration oscillated from the vibrating plate 2. After completion of the ultrasonic washing, the endoscope a is washed again by the circulating washing water. In this step, the stains swollen by the ultrasonic washing so as to be attached only lightly to the endoscope a are removed by the circulating washing water. After completion of the washing step, the rinsing step is carried out. In the rinsing step, driving of the pumps 4 and 12 is stopped first. Then, the waste water pump 29 is driven, and the tubular passageway change-over valve is switched to open the waste water tubular passageway 28. As a result, the washing liquid within the washing vessel 1 is discharged from the disport 86 to the outside through the tubular passageway 28 for the waste water. When the washing water within the washing vessel 1 is discharged completely, the water supply valve 6a is opened so as to supply a rinsing water into the washing vessel 1. Then, the pumps 4 and 12 are driven again so as to permit the rinsing water to be circulated, with the result that the inner tubular passageways and the outer surface of the endoscope a are rinsed. After completion of the rinsing step, the rinsing water is discharged completely from within the washing vessel 1. Under this condition, water remaining inside the endoscope a is removed. In this water removing step, driving of the pumps 4 and 12 is stopped. Also, the compressor 17 is driven to blow air into the tubular passageway 82 through the air supply tubular passageway 16. The air blown into the tubular passageway 82 is supplied into the tubular passageways within the endoscope a so as to remove water remaining inside the inner tubular passageways of the endoscope a . After completion of the rinsing step, the disinfecting-sterilizing step is performed. In this disinfecting-sterilizing step, the pump 87 is driven first. As a result, the disinfecting solution within the disinfecting solution tank 18 is supplied into the tubular passageway 88 so as to be poured into the washing vessel 1 through the disinfecting solution nozzle 84. The disinfecting solution is poured into the washing vessel 1 until the washing vessel 1 is filled with the disinfecting-sterilizing solution. Naturally, the planar portion 81a of the top cover 81 is in contact with the disinfecting-sterilizing solution filling the washing vessel 1. As described previously, the slit 84a is formed in the disinfecting solution nozzle 84, with the result that the disinfecting-sterilizing solution is spurted partly from the slit 84a toward the inner surface of the projecting portion 81b of the top cover 81 so as to disinfect-sterilize the inner surface of, particularly, the projecting portion 81b of the top cover 81. When a predetermined amount of the disinfecting-sterilizing solution is poured into the washing vessel 1 to permit the endoscope a to be dipped completely within the disinfecting-sterilizing solution, driving of the pump 87 is stopped, followed by driving the pump 12 for the washing operation. As a result, the disinfecting-sterilizing solution within the washing vessel 1 is supplied into the inner tubular passageways of the endoscope a so as to disinfect-sterilize the inner tubular passageways of the endoscope a together with the side wall of the washing vessel 1 and the inner surface of the top cover 81. After the disinfecting-sterilizing step, which is continued for a predetermined time, the tubular passageway change-over valve 89 is switched to open the tubular passageway 90 so as to permit the disinfecting-sterilizing solution to be recovered in the disinfecting solution tank 18. Then, the rising step described previously is repeated so as to rinse the disinfecting solution. After the disinfecting-sterilizing agent is completely removed by the rinsing step, the air blowing step is carried out. The air blowing step is performed like the water removing step performed in the latter part of the rinsing step described previously. Then, driving of the waste water discharge pump 29 is stopped a predetermined time later. As described above, the washing vessel 1 is filled with the disinfecting-sterilizing solution in the disinfecting-sterilizing step such that the inner surface of the planar portion 81a of the top cover 81 is in contact with the disinfecting-sterilizing solution. Naturally, the inner surface of the planar portion 81a is disinfected with the solution. Also, the disinfecting-sterilizing solution is partly spurted through the slit 84a of the disinfecting solution nozzle 84, with the result that the inner surface of the projecting portion 81b of the top cover 81 is also disinfected and sterilized with the solution. In short, in the step of disinfecting the endoscope a , the side wall of the washing vessel 1 and the top cover 81 are also disinfected and sterilized simultaneously without fail. What should be noted in particular is that the top cover 81 of the washing vessel 1 can be kept clean in the endoscope washing-disinfecting apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, thereby to eliminate the possibility that the contaminants such as bacteria, which are attached to the wall of the washing vessel 1 and the inner surface of the top cover 81, are attached again to the endoscope a set in the washing vessel 1 so as to contaminate again the endoscope a . In the last embodiment described above, the washing vessel 1 is filled completely with the disinfecting-sterilizing solution in the disinfecting-sterilizing step, and the disinfecting-sterilizing solution is spurted from the slit 84a. The particular technical idea can also be applied to the washing and rinsing steps. Specifically, it is possible to fill completely the washing vessel 1 with the washing solution and to permit the washing solution to be spurted from the washing solution nozzle 4a toward the projecting portion 81b of the top cover 81. FIGS. 9A to 9D show modifications of the apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In the modification shown in FIG. 9A, a plurality of slits 84a are formed in the disinfecting solution nozzle 84 to permit the disinfecting solution to be spurted from these slits 84a in a plurality of different directions. In the modification shown in FIG. 9B, a spurting nozzle 84b is mounted to the disinfecting solution nozzle 84. In the modification shown in FIG. 9C, a spurting port 92 is formed in the tubular passageway 88 for the disinfecting solution or in the tubular passageway 10 for the washing solution. Further, in the modification shown in FIG. 9D, a disinfecting solution nozzle 93 is formed to face obliquely upward to permit the disinfecting-sterilizing solution to be spurted onto the top cover 81 and, at the same time, to be supplied into the washing vessel 1. FIG. 10 shows an apparatus according to the present invention. Those members of the apparatus which are common with the members of the apparatus of the former embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals so as to avoid an overlapping description. In the apparatus of the seventh embodiment, an arcuate disinfecting solution nozzle 94 is mounted to the nozzle-mounting table 83 arranged within the washing vessel 1. In this embodiment, the washing vessel 1 is not completely filled with the disinfecting solution, with the result that the inner surface of the top cover 81 is not in direct contact with the disinfecting solution housed in the washing vessel 1. However, the surface region of the disinfecting solution is waved by operating a pump (not shown) so as to bring the disinfecting solution into contact with the inner surface of the top cover 81. FIG. 11 shows an apparatus according to the present invention. In the apparatus of Figure 11, the disinfecting-sterilizing solution filling the washing vessel 1 is in contact with the inner surface of the planar portion 81a of the top cover 81, with the result that the inner surface of the planar portion 81a is disinfected and sterilized. Also, a disinfecting solution nozzle 95 is mounted to the tower 3 arranged within the washing vessel 1, and the top cover 81 includes a projecting portion 81b positioned to face the tower 3. Further, a slit 95a for spurting the disinfecting-sterilizing solution to the projecting portion 81b is formed in the disinfecting solution nozzle 95, with the result that the projecting portion 81b of the top cover 81 is also disinfected and sterilized by the solution spurted from the slit 95a. FIG. 12 shows an apparatus according to the present invention. In the apparatus of Fig. 12 the inner surface of the planar portion 81a of the top cover 81 is in contact with the disinfecting-sterilizing solution filling the washing vessel 1, with the result that the inner surface of the planar portion 81a is disinfected and sterilized by the solution. Also, the top cover 81 is of a double-layer structure having an inner free space 96. Various tubular passageways 97 having a flexibility are arranged in the free space 96. The washing water nozzle 5, the washing solution nozzle 4a and the disinfecting solution nozzle 84, which are connected to the various tubular passageways 97, are mounted to face downward to the inner surface of the projecting portion 81b of the top cover 81. Also, a slit 84a for spurting the disinfecting-sterilizing solution toward the projecting portion 81b of the top cover 81 is formed in the side wall of the disinfecting solution nozzle 84, with the result that the projecting portion 81b is also disinfected and sterilized by the solution spurted from the slit 84a. FIGS. 13A to 13C show an apparatus according to the present invention. It should be noted that, since the operating section of the endoscope a is complex in construction, the foam of the detergent used in the washing step is attached to small clearances in the operating section, leading to requirement of a long rinsing time. The embodiment of Figure 13 is intended to overcome this difficulty. Specifically, FIG. 13A shows that a rinsing water nozzle 100 for spurting the washing solution toward the operating section of the endoscope a is mounted to the nozzle-mounting table 83. FIG. 13B shows that a washing solution nozzle 101 for spurting the rinsing water toward the operating section of the endoscope a is mounted to the inner surface of the projecting portion 81b of the top cover 81. Further, FIG. 13C shows that a washing solution nozzle 102 for spurting the rinsing water toward the operating section of the endoscope a is mounted to the tower 3 arranged within the washing vessel 1. In the tenth embodiment, the rinsing water is vigorously spurted to the operating section of the endoscope a so as to remove the foam of the detergent attached to the operating section in a short time. It follows that the rinsing step can be performed efficiently. FIG. 14 shows an apparatus according to the present invention. The apparatus of Figure 14 comprises a first connector 108a, a second connector 108b and a third connector 108c. The first connector 108a, which is mounted to the tower 3 within the washing vessel and connected to a first branched tubular passageway 105, is normally kept open. On the other hand, the second and third connectors 108b and 108c, which are connected to a second branched tubular passageway 106, are normally kept closed. It follows that fluid flows through the first connector 108a, even if the tube 14 for washing the tubular passageways of the endoscope is not connected to the endoscope a . On the other hand, the second and third connectors 108b, 108c are closed when the tube 14 for washing the tubular passageways of the endoscope is not connected to the endoscope a , and permit fluid to flow through these second and third connectors 108b, 108c only when the tube 14 for washing the tubular passageways of the endoscope is connected to the endoscope a . The particular construction produces a prominent effect. Specifically, in washing an endoscope a which does not include inner tubular passageways such as a forceps channel and a suction tubular passageway, the tube 14 for washing the tubular passageways of the endoscope is not connected to the endoscope a , quite naturally. It follows that the flow amount of the fluid can be decreased. Also, a costly relief valve can be omitted, and the burden of the pump can be decreased. FIG. 15 shows a flow detector 113 for detecting whether or not the endoscope washing-disinfecting apparatus operates normally. The washing-disinfecting apparatus includes a large number of tubular passageways. Since it is naturally possible to use the apparatus for washing-disinfecting the endoscope a without knowing that the tubular passageway is plugged, it is necessary to check the apparatus before the washing-disinfecting operation. For performing the checking, a detector is connected to a connector for connecting the tube 14 for washing the tubular passageway of the endoscope so as to detect whether or not fluid actually flows out of the connector. In general, the washing-disinfecting apparatus comprises a connector 111 having a large diameter and a connector 112 having a small diameter. On the other hand, a connecting port 115 of a small diameter is connected to one end of the flow detector 113 via a tube 114. Also, a connecting port 117 having a large diameter is connected to the other end of the flow detector 113 via a tube 116. As shown in the drawing, the flow detector 113 comprises an annular passageway 113a having a ball 113b put therein. The ball 113b is circulated within the annular passageway 113a by the flow of fluid within the flow detector 113. If the large diameter connecting port 117 of the flow detector 113 is connected to the large diameter connector 111 of the washing-disinfecting apparatus, the fluid flowing out of the large diameter connector 111 flows through the flow detector 113 so as to be discharged to the outside through the small diameter connecting port 115. Naturally, the ball 113b put in the flow detector 113 is rotated, if the fluid flows through the flow detector 113. In other words, movement of the ball 113b indicates that the washing-disinfecting apparatus operates normally. If the fluid does not flow through the flow detector 113, however, the ball 113b is kept stationary, indicating that the tubular passageway of the washing-disinfecting apparatus is plugged or the pump included in the washing-disinfecting apparatus fails to operate normally. Incidentally, it is also possible to connect the small diameter connecting port 115 of the flow detector 113 to the small diameter connector 112 of the washing-disinfecting apparatus, with the large diameter connecting port 117 allowed to act as a fluid discharge port. The apparatus according to any of the present invention permits washing-disinfecting the endoscope and the washing vessel included in the washing-disinfecting apparatus without fail. Also, it is possible to prevent the endoscope after the washing-disinfecting treatment from being contaminated when the endoscope is taken out of the apparatus. It follows that infection of a disease via the endoscope can be prevented. Further, the washing-disinfecting apparatus can be simplified in construction and can also be miniaturized.

Claims: An apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope, comprising. a vessel (1) in which an endoscope (a) can be mounted; a bottle (23) housing an enzyme-based or enzyme-containing alkali-based washing solution; washing solution supply means (4a) for supplying said washing solution for washing an endoscope (a) into said vessel (1); washing means for washing the endoscope (a) mounted within the vessel (1) with said washing solution; and bottles (19) housing an oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution; disinfecting-sterilizing solution supply means (21) for supplying said oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution into the vessel (1), such that an endoscope (a) mounted within the vessel can be disinfected and sterilized with said oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution. The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that said disinfecting-sterilizing solution contains as a main component at least one kind of a concentrated disinfecting-sterilizing agent, said solution being prepared by diluting said concentrated agent with water within said vessel. The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1, characterized by further comprising a tank (18) for storing said disinfecting-sterilizing agent and a fluid passageway for connecting said tank (18) to said vessel (1) so as to permit said disinfecting-sterilizing agent to be circulated through the apparatus. The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein said disinfecting-sterilizing solution supply means (21) comprises: a tank (18) connected to a city water supply source and a warm water supply source and storing a disinfecting-sterilizing agent diluted with city water and/or warm water; a temperature sensor (43) for detecting the temperature of the disinfecting-sterilizing solution stored in said tank (18); and a control section (CS) for controlling the supply amounts of said city water and warm water upon receipt of a detection signal supplied from said temperature sensor (43). The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that said disinfecting-sterilizing solution does not communicate with the outside except a single portion, and a vapor component removing means (22) is mounted at the portion where the disinfecting-sterilizing solution communicates with the outside. The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that the vessel (1) having said endoscope (a) arranged therein is provided with an ultrasonic vibrator (2). The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1, characterized by further comprising means for supplying a washing solution into the tubular passageway of the endoscope such that said washing solution flows within the tubular passageway at a flowing speed of 100 cm/s. The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein said vessel (1) has an upper opening, at least part of said upper opening being sealed by a top cover (81). The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein said vessel (1) has an upper opening, at least part of said upper opening being sealed by a top cover (81) said top cover 81 having a portion higher than a level of the solution contained in the vessel (1), the disinfecting-sterilizing of the vessel (1) including said top cover (81) being performed by combination of contact with the disinfecting-sterilizing solution and spurting of the solution. The apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 8, wherein said top cover (81) includes a planar portion (81a), and a projecting portion (81b) projecting from part of said planar portion (81a) to a higher level than said planar-portion (81 a). A method of washing-disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope, comprising the sequential steps of supplying an enzyme-based or enzyme-containing alkali-based washing solution into a vessel (1) having an endoscope (a) mounted therein for washing the endoscope (a); and supplying an oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution into the vessel so as to disinfect-sterilize the endoscope with said disinfecting-sterilizing solution, said oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution performing disinfection and sterilization by oxidation. The method for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 11, characterized in that said disinfecting-sterilizing step is performed at room temperature or higher. The method for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 11, characterized in that an endoscope (a) is dipped in said disinfecting-sterilizing solution which is held at room temperature or heated in said disinfecting-sterilizing step. The method of washing-disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 11, characterized in that said endoscope is dipped in a solution of at least an alkaline or enzyme-based detergent for the washing in said washing step. The method of washing-disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 11, characterized in that said washing step is performed by at least an ultrasonic washing and by supply of a washing solution into tubular passageways of said endoscope. The method of washing-disinfecting-sterilizing an endoscope according to claim 11, characterized in that an ultrasonic washing and washing by circulation of a washing solution within the washing vessel (1) are employed in combination in said washing step.

Inventors: HASEGAWA HITOSHI, KUROSHIMA HISASHI, NAKANISHI NOBUYUKI, NEGORO DAISAKU, SUZUKI EIRI, TAYA NAOYA, HASEGAWA, HITOSHI, KUROSHIMA, HISASHI, NAKANISHI, NOBUYUKI, NEGORO, DAISAKU, SUZUKI, EIRI, TAYA, NAOYA, Hasegawa, Hitoshi c/o Int. Prop. &amp; Leg. Dept., Kuroshima, Hisashi c/o Int. Prop. &amp; Leg. Dept., Nakanishi, Nobuyuki c/o Int. Prop. &amp; Legal Dept., Negoro, Daisaku c/o Int. Prop. &amp; Legal Department, Suzuki, Eiri c/o Int. Prop. &amp; Legal Department, Taya, Naoya c/o Int. Prop. &amp; Legal Department
Applicants: OLYMPUS OPTICAL CO, OLYMPUS OPTICAL CO., LTD.
Application year: 1999
Main classification: A61L2
IPC codes: A61L2, A61B1