[Assessment of Flexible Single-Use Rhinolaryngoscopes with Working Channel in the Upper Airways]

Flexible rhinolaryngoscopy is a frequently used ENT examination method. It is usually performed with reusable endoscopy systems. Since 2019, flexible single-use rhinolaryngoscopes from various manufacturers with and without a working channel are available on the German market. In recent years, hygiene requirements and specifications for reprocessing reusable endoscopes have increased significantly.This study uses questionnaires to evaluate user satisfaction with the Ambu disposable endoscopy system with working channel in a bicentre observational study.The overall impression of the disposable endoscopy system with working channel was rated as "very good" in half of the applications. Image quality and handling were predominantly rated as "good" to "very good". The simultaneously usage of instruments through the working channel is a challenge.Single-use rhinolaryngoscopy systems offer excellent handling, image quality and user satisfaction. There is a high level of security with regard to contamination risks and complication rates. Compliance with current hygiene guidelines can lead to increasing expenses in the reprocessing of reusable endoscopy systems and make disposable endoscopes more attractive in the future. In combination with an integrated working channel, single-use endoscopy systems can offer additional value compared to reusable systems regarding hygienic standards.