Point of Use Cleaning System for Endoscopes

Abstract

The invention includes devices, arrangements and methods for treating an endoscope after use to prevent adhesion of bioburden on internal walls of a lumen of the endoscope. After treatment, the device is stored in the treated condition until cleaning. The device is configured to selectively deliver cleaning solution to the endoscope. The device can be a circulating embodiment having a pump. A filter can be provided to filter debris during circulation. The device can be a non-circulating embodiment having a hydrophobic filter for release of air. Fittings are provided on the device components to selectively attach the device to endoscopes.

1 - 13 . (canceled) 
     
     
         14 . A method of treating an endoscope to prevent adhesion of bioburden on internal walls of a lumen of said endoscope, comprising:
 shortly after use of said endoscope in a medical procedure, injecting a cleaning solution in said endoscope,   circulating the cleaning solution in the endoscope, whereby circulation of the cleaning solution within said endoscope comprises a treated condition in which the enzymatic fluid prevents adhesion of bioburden on said internal walls of said lumen of said endoscope.   
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 14 , further comprising storing said endoscope in said treated condition until cleaning of said endoscope. 
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 15 , further comprising terminating said treated condition and cleaning said endoscope for reuse, whereby the treated condition facilitates the cleaning of said endoscope. 
     
     
         17 - 20 . (canceled) 
     
     
         21 . The method of claim  13 , wherein shortly after use of said endoscope in a medical procedure comprises less than five minutes after removal of said endoscope from a patient. 
     
     
         22 . The method of claim  13 , wherein shortly after use of said endoscope in a medical procedure comprises less than sixty minutes after removal of said endoscope from a patient. 
     
     
         23 . The method of claim  13 , wherein the cleaning solution is an enzymatic cleaning solution.