With over 5 million tons of medical waste being disposed of annually1, we’re very aware of the impact single-use medical devices can have on our environment. But did you know there is more to the story? Below are 3 misconceptions about the potential environmental impact of single-use bronchoscopes.
Misconception #1: Single-use bronchoscopes create greater landfill waste than reusable bronchoscopes.
The waste generated from reprocessing endoscopes is often overlooked, as reprocessing usually occurs in a separate department. One study showed that 337 grams of PPE2 can end up in the trash after reprocessing one endoscope. Although that number can be cut down by reprocessing more than one scope at a time, it doesn’t account for the chemicals, additional equipment, or staff time that is also required for reprocessing. Furthermore, costs associated with treating infections from inadequately processed bronchoscopes3 can also add to the environmental impact of using reusable bronchoscopes.
Misconception #2: All single-use scopes contribute the same amount of waste to landfills.
The BFlex™ 2 bronchoscope was designed with the environment in mind by keeping the cable between the scope and monitor reusable. By making the cable reusable, BFlex 2 cuts landfill waste up to half4 compared to other single-use bronchoscopes on the market.
Misconception #43: Two separate systems must be purchased and maintained for bronchoscopy and video laryngoscopy.
By combining bronchoscopy and video laryngoscopy in one system, the Total Airway Solution by Verathon offers two systems in one, which means fewer systems to purchase, maintain, and dispose of at end-of-life, resulting in a lower impact to the environment.
Now is the time to learn how BFlex 2 single-use bronchoscopes can reduce the amount of waste in landfills. Contact Verathon for more information.
1. https://practicegreenhealth.org/topics/waste/waste-0
2. Sørensen, B. L., Grüttner H. 2018. “Comparative Study on Environmental Impacts of Reusable and Single-Use Bronchoscopes”. AJEP, 2018; 7(4) 55-62. http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfojournalid=163&doi=10.11648/j.ajep.20180704.11
3. Terjesen, C.L., et al. “Early Assessment of the Likely Cost Effectiveness of Single-Use Flexible Video Bronchoscopes.” PharmacoEconomics (2017). 1:133-141.
4. Data on file per DR-TRM-0154 / REV-00. Comparison of packaged weight of 3 single-use scope models.
