Borescope

What is a Borescope?

A borescope is an inspection device used in sterile processing and surgical settings to visually examine the internal channels of medical instruments, particularly flexible and rigid endoscopes. It consists of a high-resolution camera attached to a flexible or rigid tube, allowing technicians to see inside narrow, hard-to-reach lumens where contaminants may remain even after cleaning.

Borescopes play a crucial role in ensuring surgical instruments are truly clean and ready for sterilization. They are often used as part of enhanced visual inspection protocols to support infection prevention and quality assurance efforts in healthcare facilities.

Why is Borescope Inspection Important?

Visual inspection with a borescope helps detect retained soil, damage, or debris that may not be visible to the naked eye. Even with automated washers and manual cleaning, complex surgical instruments—especially those with internal channels—are vulnerable to residual contamination.

Without borescope inspection, these contaminants can go undetected, potentially leading to:

• Surgical site infections (SSIs)
• Device malfunction during procedures
• Regulatory noncompliance
• Costly reprocessing or instrument replacement

Many regulatory bodies and guidelines (including AAMI ST91) now recommend or require visual inspection using a borescope as part of standard cleaning verification protocols in the Sterile Processing Department (SPD).

Quick Facts

• Used in SPD to inspect internal channels of endoscopes and surgical instruments
• Supports cleaning verification, damage detection, and documentation
• Helps prevent infections and maintain regulatory compliance (AAMI, CDC, etc.)
• Borescope usage is often documented and integrated into instrument tracking systems
• Critical for maintaining patient safety and accreditation readiness