Rigid endoscopes--ensuring quality before use and after repair.

Rigid endoscopes are complex, expensive, and fragile devices that routinely are subjected to harsh conditions. An endoscope used during only one procedure typically will be handled by a minimum of six people. Understanding what can go wrong with endoscopes and how to test them can help staff members detect problems before rather than during surgery. This article reviews some simple tests that can be used to ensure endoscope quality and provides information about how to demand excellence in endoscope repair.