Industry News
Jul 02,2025
Endoscope insertion tube: a key role in minimally invasive surgery
In modern medicine, the endoscope insertion tube plays a vital role as a core component of minimally invasive surgery. It not only guides the camera and light source into the human body, but also provides doctors with clear images to help them make accurate diagnosis and treatment. With the continuous advancement of technology, the design and function of the endoscope insertion tube are also being optimized to meet the needs of different surgeries.
The endoscope insertion tube is a flexible, extended component that is part of the medical instrument endoscope. It accommodates the light source, camera and various tools. Its main function is to provide a path for these elements to enter the body during procedures such as endoscopy, colonoscopy and laparoscopy. The use of endoscope insertion tubes enables doctors to perform various treatments on patients without large-scale surgery.
The material selection of the endoscope insertion tube is crucial. Common medical-grade materials such as TPU, PA12 or PEBAX are used. These materials not only meet the requirements of biological evaluation, but also have good flexibility and bending resistance. The inner and outer layers of the tube wall are made of medical materials, and the middle braided layer can be woven with various specifications of stainless steel wire as needed to provide additional support and anti-kink ability.
Disposable endoscope insertion tubes have become an indispensable core tool in urology surgery due to their high safety and convenience. This design not only reduces the risk of cross-infection, but also simplifies the surgical process and improves surgical efficiency. In addition, the use of disposable insertion tubes also reduces the maintenance cost of hospitals and provides a guarantee for the rational use of medical resources.
The guide sheath plays an important role in the endoscope insertion tube, especially in improving the quality of endoscopic imaging. The design of the guide sheath ensures that the endoscope insertion tube can be flexibly operated in complex anatomical structures while maintaining the clarity and stability of the image. This design not only improves the success rate of the operation, but also reduces the discomfort of the patient.
There are many types of medical endoscope insertion tubes, including circular, non-circular, curved and other shapes to adapt to different anatomical areas and surgical needs. The design of these insertion tubes not only takes into account flexibility and durability, but also focuses on user comfort and precision to improve surgical results.
As part of the endoscope system, the design and manufacturing of the endoscope insertion tube need to be highly integrated. Modern endoscope insertion tubes not only have good flexibility and bending resistance, but also integrate high-definition cameras and light sources to provide clear images and lighting. This integrated design allows doctors to observe and operate in real time during surgery, improving the accuracy and safety of surgery.
The emergence of endoscope insertion tube kits provides doctors with more choices and flexibility. For example, the TrueFeel series insertion tube kits provide a better operating experience through optimized design. These kits can not only adapt to different surgical needs, but also reduce vibration during surgery and improve patient comfort.
What is the structure of the endoscope insertion tube?
The endoscope insertion tube is a key component in the endoscope system. Its structural design is designed to ensure clear vision and operational flexibility in complex anatomical structures. The insertion tube is usually composed of a multi-layer composite structure, including from the outside to the inside:
Outer layer: Made of medical-grade polyurethane (PU) or silicone material, the surface is smooth and corrosion-resistant, reducing friction during insertion and preventing body fluid penetration.
Braided layer: braided by metal wire (such as stainless steel wire), providing radial strength and anti-kink ability, ensuring that the insertion part can be flexibly bent but not collapsed.
Lining layer: made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polyethylene (PE) to form a smooth channel to protect the internal optical fiber, wire and instrument channel.
In addition, the front end of the insertion tube is usually provided with a bending part, which is composed of multiple snake-bone structures that are rotatably connected to each other. The inner wall of the snake-bone structure is provided with a guide groove, and the traction line passes through the guide groove and is connected to the snake-bone structure. The operating part is provided with a control knob and a control button, the control knob is connected to the traction line, and the control button is connected to the electrical signal of the pump group of the endoscope.
In a flexible endoscope, the structure of the insertion tube is more complicated, usually including an insertion tube, a bending part and a tip end. The surface of the insertion tube has a layer of black resin skin with scales, which plays the role of waterproofing, corrosion resistance and identification; the middle layer is a metal mesh, which plays the role of protecting the inner layer components; the inner layer is a spiral sheet, which plays the role of bending. Four spiral tubes are welded to the front end of the insertion tube, and the steel wire is inserted into the spiral tube. The rear end of the spiral tube is welded with a corresponding fixing and installed in the bracket to balance the stability of the soft endoscope when it is angled during use.
In a rigid endoscope, the insertion tube part consists of an outer tube, an inner tube and an illumination fiber. The illumination fiber is located between the inner tube and the outer tube, and its function is to illuminate the entire field of view. The insertion tube of a rigid endoscope is relatively hard and cannot be bent. It is often used for the examination and treatment of relatively straight cavities or parts such as otolaryngology and joint cavities.
Material selection for endoscope insertion tubeThe endoscope insertion tube is an indispensable key component in minimally invasive surgery, and its performance and safety depend largely on the selected material. The endoscope insertion tube is usually composed of a multi-layer composite structure, and each layer of material has a specific function to ensure its flexibility, durability and biocompatibility in complex anatomical environments.
1. Jacket material: providing flexibility and protectionThe jacket material is the outermost layer of the endoscope insertion tube. Its main function is to protect the internal structure while providing good flexibility and bending resistance. Common jacket materials include:
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU): TPU has excellent flexibility, wear resistance and tear resistance, and is suitable for insertion tubes that need to be frequently bent and repeatedly used. It also has good biocompatibility and is suitable for use in the human body's internal environment.Polyamide 12 (PA12): PA12 is a high-performance engineering plastic with good chemical corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. It is suitable for insertion tubes with high durability requirements.Polyetheramide (PEBAX): PEBAX is a semi-crystalline polyester that combines softness and strength. It is often used in insertion tubes that require high flexibility and fatigue resistance.
These materials not only provide good flexibility, but also remain stable during cleaning and disinfection, reducing the risk of material aging and performance degradation.
2. Reinforcement materials: provide structural support and anti-kink abilityReinforcement materials are usually added to the middle layer of the endoscope insertion tube to provide structural support and anti-kink ability. The most commonly used reinforcement materials are:
Stainless steel wire: Stainless steel wire has good mechanical strength and corrosion resistance, which can effectively prevent the insertion tube from collapsing or kinking during use. By weaving into a mesh structure, stainless steel wire can enhance the radial support force of the insertion tube, so that it can remain stable in complex anatomical paths.
3. Lining material: ensure smooth lumen and unobstructed passageThe lining material is the innermost layer of the endoscope insertion tube, which directly contacts the optical fiber, wire and instrument channel. Its main function is to provide a smooth inner surface, reduce friction and damage, and ensure unobstructed passage. Commonly used lining materials include:
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): PTFE is one of the most commonly used lining materials at present. Due to its extremely low friction coefficient and excellent chemical inertness, it can effectively prevent the wear of optical fibers and wires, and is easy to clean and disinfect.Polyamide 12 (PA12): PA12 has good lubricity and wear resistance, and is suitable for insertion tubes that require frequent sliding and repeated use.Polyetheramide (PEBAX): PEBAX has good flexibility and fatigue resistance, and is suitable for insertion tubes that require high flexibility and durability.Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF): PVDF is a high-performance fluoropolymer with excellent chemical corrosion resistance and mechanical strength, and is suitable for high-end insertion tubes with high material performance requirements.
4. Material combination and structural designThe material selection of endoscope insertion tubes is usually not single, but combined according to specific application requirements. For example:
"Coat + lining" structure: The jacket material provides flexibility and protection, and the lining material provides a smooth inner surface. The combination of the two can achieve good operating performance and service life."Coat + reinforcement layer + lining" structure: In some high-end insertion tubes, a reinforcement layer (such as a stainless steel wire braid) is added in the middle to further improve the bending resistance and kink resistance of the insertion tube.
5. Basis for material selectionWhen selecting the material for the endoscope insertion tube, the following aspects are usually considered:
Biocompatibility: The material must meet the safety standards for human contact to avoid allergies or tissue damage.
Flexibility and bending resistance: The insertion tube needs to be flexibly bent in the human body, so the material must have good flexibility and fatigue resistance.
Corrosion resistance: The insertion tube will be exposed to a variety of chemical reagents during cleaning and disinfection, so the material must have good chemical corrosion resistance.
Lubricity and smoothness: The lining material must have good lubricity to reduce friction damage to the optical fiber and wire.
Cleanability and sterilizability: The material must be able to withstand high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization, chemical disinfectant immersion and other treatment methods to ensure sterile use.
6. Impact of materials on performanceDifferent material combinations will have a significant impact on the performance of the endoscope insertion tube:
Flexibility and bending resistance: Materials such as TPU, PA12, and PEBAX have good flexibility and are suitable for insertion tubes that need to be bent frequently.Strength and support: The stainless steel wire reinforcement layer can provide good radial support to prevent the insertion tube from collapsing in complex paths.Smoothness and channel smoothness: Lining materials such as PTFE, PA12, and PEBAX can provide a smooth inner surface, reduce friction and damage, and ensure smooth channels.Durability and life: Materials such as PA12 and PEBAX have good durability and are suitable for insertion tubes that are used for long periods of time or high-frequency operations.
What are the precautions for using the endoscope insertion tube?The precautions for using the endoscope insertion tube mainly include the following aspects:
1. Avoid excessive bending or twisting: During use, avoid excessive bending or twisting of the insertion tube to avoid damage. The insertion tube is designed to provide a clear view and operational flexibility inside the human body, so it should be kept in its natural state.
2. Correct insertion and removal: When inserting the endoscope, it should be done gently and slowly, avoiding excessive force to avoid damaging the patient or the equipment. Similarly, when removing the insertion tube, it should also be operated carefully to avoid forcible pulling to avoid jamming or damage.
3. Keep clean and dry: Before and after use, the insertion tube should be kept clean and dry to prevent contamination and damage. After use, it should be thoroughly cleaned and properly stored to avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment.
4. Avoid contact with harmful substances: The insertion tube should avoid contact with any other liquid other than water, salt water, motor oil or diesel to avoid damage. In addition, splashing water droplets should be prevented from contacting the port to avoid damage to the equipment.
5. Follow the operating instructions: When using an endoscope, the operating instructions provided by the manufacturer should be strictly followed to ensure safe and effective use of the device. For example, when adjusting the flexibility of the insertion tube, it should be done slowly and avoid rapid changes to avoid causing discomfort to the patient or damage to the device.
6. Pay attention to storage conditions: When not in use, the insertion tube should be stored in a dry, clean, dust-free environment, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures to maintain its performance and life.
7. Avoid improper operation: During use, the insertion tube should be avoided from being inserted into stepped positions, protruding positions, or positions that feel too tight to insert. In addition, the use of the insertion tube in an environment that exceeds the operating temperature range should be avoided to avoid causing product damage or performance deterioration.
8. Regular maintenance and inspection: After use, the status of the insertion tube should be checked regularly to ensure that it is free of damage and maintained and calibrated as recommended by the manufacturer. This helps to extend the life of the device and ensure its reliability in subsequent use.
What are the maintenance methods for the endoscope insertion tube?
Cleaning: The insertion tube should be cleaned immediately after use to remove dust, oil or other contaminants that may be attached. Use a clean soft cloth or cotton swab for cleaning, and avoid using hard cloth or hard brushes to avoid damaging the equipment. If there is sewage, oil or other liquids on the insertion tube, it should be cleaned with a soft cloth or cotton swab dipped in neutral detergent, and then wiped dry with a clean soft gauze dipped in clean water.
Drying: After cleaning, all parts of the insertion tube must be thoroughly dried to prevent bacterial growth and equipment corrosion. A portable endoscope drying unit can be used for drying.
Avoid bending and twisting: During use, avoid excessive bending or twisting of the insertion tube to avoid damage. Before each use, make sure that the insertion tube is straight to reduce pressure on the bite line.
Proper storage: When not in use, the insertion tube should be stored in a dry, dust-proof environment and use a dedicated protective cover or box. The insertion tube should be kept straight during storage to avoid winding it into a tight coil.
Regular inspection: Check the status of the insertion tube regularly to ensure that it is not damaged, and maintain and calibrate it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. If the insertion tube is found to be damaged or abnormal, contact the manufacturer or authorized dealer in time for repair.
Avoid improper operation: During use, avoid inserting the insertion tube into a stepped position, a protruding position, or a position that feels too tight to insert. In addition, avoid using the insertion tube in an environment that exceeds the operating temperature range to avoid product damage or performance deterioration.
By following the above maintenance methods, the correct use and maintenance of the endoscope insertion tube can be ensured, thereby improving the safety and success rate of surgery.
Common faults of endoscope insertion tubes mainly include the following aspects:
Deformation of the insertion tube: Deformation of the insertion tube is usually caused by external forces, such as excessive bending or twisting. This deformation can cause deformation of the instrument pipeline, breakage of the guide light, deformation of the water and gas pipeline, and even affect the image quality and light intensity.
Yellowing, aging, and crystallization of the outer skin of the insertion tube: Since the residual mucus and protein are not thoroughly removed during daily cleaning and disinfection, these substances will crystallize and cause the outer skin of the insertion tube to yellow and age. After long-term use, the outer skin of the insertion tube will also age normally due to immersion in disinfectants, enzyme solutions, and alcohol.
Damage to the light guide or image guide: The light guide is dim, yellow, or does not guide light, and black spots appear on the image guide. This may be due to the insertion tube being bent at too large an angle, squeezed, collided, clamped, or bitten by the patient, which may cause the optical fiber to break.
Pinholes, breakage, and wrinkles appear on the insertion tube coil: Such phenomena are usually caused by collision between the insertion tube and sharp objects, too small an angle of the cleaning coil, the patient's mouth pad falling off, the mirror body being bitten by the patient, and the mirror being clamped when placed.
Open welding at the root of the insertion tube: Open welding at the root of the insertion tube will affect the sealing of the endoscope and cause water leakage.
Dents and bends on the insertion tube: Dents and bends on the insertion tube will affect the insertability of the endoscope. At the same time, the internal mirror surface may be cut, causing the light guide to break, the CCD objective lens to fall off, and the CCD to be damaged, resulting in abnormalities such as shadows, defects, and disappearance of the image.
Damage to the outer skin of the insertion tube: Damage to the outer skin of the insertion tube may be caused by improper cleaning and disinfection, incorrect sterilization methods, etc.
These faults not only affect the normal use of the endoscope, but may also cause harm to the patient. Therefore, correct operation and maintenance are the key to preventing these faults.
What is the cleaning and disinfection process of the endoscope insertion tube?
The cleaning and disinfection process of the endoscope insertion tube is a key step to ensure medical safety and prevent cross infection. The following is a detailed cleaning and disinfection process:
Pretreatment: Immediately after use, rinse the surface and pipeline of the endoscope with running water to remove pollutants such as blood and mucus. Use a special brush to repeatedly scrub the pipeline to prevent the residue from drying up and forming a biofilm. The pretreatment time is controlled within 10 minutes to avoid the growth of microorganisms.
Cleaning: Disassemble the endoscope and disassemble all detachable parts. Soak in warm water containing multi-enzyme cleaning agent (water temperature ≤40℃), rinse the inside of the pipeline with a high-pressure water gun, and manually scrub the joints with a soft brush. The cleaning agent is prepared and used immediately, and the single use time does not exceed 4 hours. Rinse with pure water three times after cleaning to ensure that there is no cleaning agent residue.
Enzyme cleaning: Immerse the entire endoscope in the enzyme cleaning solution and wipe the surface of the endoscope. Rinse the endoscope pipeline while maintaining the full perfusion device. Please select the enzyme cleaning solution as described in the endoscope manual. Repeated use of the enzyme cleaning solution has a greater impact on the cleaning effect.
Disinfection: Use a high-level disinfectant, such as GA, for disinfection. The disinfection method and time should follow the product instructions. Use a power pump or syringe to fill each pipe with disinfectant until no bubbles come out.
Flushing: Use a power pump or pressure water gun to flush each pipe with purified water or sterile water for at least two minutes until no disinfectant remains. Use a pressure air gun to inflate all pipes with clean compressed air for at least thirty seconds until they are completely dry.
Leakage test: During the cleaning and disinfection process, a leak test is required to ensure that the endoscope is leak-free. If a leak is found, the endoscope needs to be removed and sent to the maintenance department for repair.
Drying and storage: Use filtered dry air and blow the inside of the pipe with an air gun until no water droplets remain. Flexible endoscopes need to be hung vertically to avoid bending damage. The storage cabinet should maintain a temperature of <24°C and a humidity of <70%, and the storage environment should be monitored daily.
Storage: Cleaned and disinfected endoscopes should be stored in a dedicated storage area to maintain a sterile state and avoid secondary contamination.
The endoscope insertion tube is a key component in the endoscope system. Its main function is to deliver the camera, light source and various operating tools into the human body to achieve observation and treatment of internal organs.
The insertion tube is usually composed of a multi-layer composite structure, including outer jacket material, reinforcement material and lining material from the outside to the inside. Outer jacket materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyamide 12 (PA12) or polyetheramide (PEBAX) provide flexibility and protection; reinforcement materials such as stainless steel wire braid provide radial strength and anti-kink ability; lining materials such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polyethylene (PE) ensure that the inner cavity is smooth, reduce friction, and facilitate the passage of optical fibers and instruments.
The design of the endoscope insertion tube needs to balance flexibility and rigidity to meet the needs of different anatomical structures. For example, in urology surgery, disposable endoscope insertion tubes are often made of PTFE or PEBAX materials, which have the advantages of strong biocompatibility, smooth surface, low friction, etc., and can reduce tissue damage during surgical operations. Additionally, many insertion tubes are equipped with radiographic markers to provide real-time, precise feedback during procedures that require X-ray-assisted positioning.