Development of an Endoscope Reprocessor Using Ozonated Water Jets

OBJECTIVE: To develop an endoscope reprocessing system using ozonated water jets. METHODS: The system features a jet head with concentric orifices that moves vertically to disinfect the external surface of the endoscope. Simultaneously, ozonated water is injected into the internal channel to ensure complete disinfection. Endoscopes were experimentally contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Quantitative and qualitative microbiological analyses were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of enzymatic detergent washing followed by ozonated water disinfection. RESULTS: The system achieved uniform disinfection across all endoscope surfaces. Quantitative analysis demonstrated a 4-log (99.99%) reduction in colony-forming units (CFU/mL) on the endoscope and in the post-disinfection water. Qualitative analysis showed no turbidity, indicating the absence of bacterial growth. CONCLUSION: This preliminary study presents the development of an endoscope reprocessor capable of achieving a 99.99% reduction in bacterial load using ozonated water jets. The system may represent a more resource-efficient alternative to conventional methods, consuming only 8 liters of water per cycle through recirculation and re-ozonation. The combined mechanical action of the water jets and the antimicrobial properties of ozone resulted in effective disinfection under the experimental conditions, reducing the processing time to 15 minutes compared to conventional methods.