Defects of camera covers after arthroscopic surgery

Arthroscopic cameras are used either sterilized or in an unsterile manner enveloped in a sterile cover. The goal of this investigation was to determine the integrity of camera covers after arthroscopic procedures, as defects of camera covers have been occasionally observed by us. Such defects might be a potential cause of infection. Six different types of camera covers were tested in a prospective randomized study involving 90 consecutive shoulder arthroscopies. After surgery, the covers were tested by filling them with water up to a level of 20 cm. Any water leaks were recorded. Of all tested camera covers, 74% had 1 to 9 holes involving all types of covers. Of the holes, 17% were larger than 1 mm. In addition, 37% of the covers leaked at the junction between the cover and the arthroscope. The type of cover with the lowest number of leaks had the largest diameter of all tested covers and included an arthroscope adapter, in contrast to the others, which were only sealed off from the arthroscope by adhesive tape. One cover with tape sealing leaked more frequently than the others at the junction (93% of cases, P < .003). The tested camera covers are fragile and tend to leak. This might be a potential risk factor for infection. Mechanically more resistant camera covers or sterilized cameras without the need for covers should be used instead.