Erbe APC 300 - Prevention of Excessive Argon Insufflation Within the GIT or TBS; Intraoperative Cleaning of the APC Probes Distal Tip; Postoperative Cleaning, Disinfection and Sterilization

Notes on Safety in the Medical Specialties • 3
3
6. Prevention of excessive argon
insufflation within the
GIT or TBS
8. Postoperative cleaning,
disinfection and sterilization of
reusable APC probe
7. Intraoperative cleaning of the
APC probe's distal tip
• Never activate the APC probe while it is in contact with tissue.
•
Never press the distal tip of the APC probe against an organ wall before
or during activation.
During APC, distention of the organ being treated can cause discomfort to
the patient. To avoid this:
• Set the argon flow rate as low as possible.
• Apply repeated suction if using a single-channel endoscope.
• Apply continuous or interrupted suction through the second channel if
using a double-channel therapeutic endoscope.
• Insert a deflation tube (3 - 5 mm ø) parallel to the endoscope, e.g. when
using APC in the rectum.
•
Always monitor the patient’s abdominal wall tension.
Coarse crusts of debris or tissue on the tip of the APC probe may inhibit
argon flow through the probe. In such a case, remove the APC probe and
clean its tip with a wet swab. Before reinserting the APC probe into the
endoscope, recheck its function as described under No. 2 above.
Thoroughly rinse the APC probe from proximal to distal as soon as possible
after use with a suitable rinsing or disinfection solution. Also clean its exterior.
The APC probes can be resterilized in autoclaves to 134 °C.
(Where applicable)