Protective tube for use in the sterilization of flexible endoscopes and sterilization method

摘要

A protective tube is provided for use in sterilizing flexible endoscopes in a vacuum method. Such flexible endoscopes comprise a flexible sleeve at a distal end portion. The diameter of the protective tube is selected such that the tube can be slipped onto and fit onto the distal end portion. The length of the tube is selected such that it at least covers the end portion with the flexible sleeve. In addition, the structure of the tube is selected such that the flexible sleeve is protected against swelling under vacuum conditions, at the same time however the sterilizing agent reaches between the outside of the sleeve and the applied protective tube.