Single-Use vs Reusable Endoscopes: Understanding the Environmental Impact of Nasendoscopy in New Zealand
Updated: Aug 20
What’s the environmental impact of single-use vs reusable medical devices – endoscopes?
We had the opportunity to support a research project led by Dr Katherine Baguley and Dr Alice Flavell-Birch. They were working at Wellington Hospital, exploring the environmental impact of nasendoscopy practices in New Zealand.
Nasendoscopy is a common procedure used in Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) clinics to examine the nasal passages and throat using a thin, flexible camera called an endoscope.
Dr Katherine and Dr Alice say that following the COVID-19 pandemic, many hospitals have shifted toward single-use endoscopes. While disposable devices can offer advantages in convenience, they also raise important questions about their environmental impact.
Comparing single-use and reusable devices
The research project uses a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to compare the carbon footprint of single-use and reusable endoscopes.
This approach looks at the entire life cycle of the device, including:
Manufacturing
Transport
Clinical use
Cleaning and sterilisation (for reusable devices)
End-of-life disposal
We are then building a break-even analysis to show at which point each scope is justified.
Why New Zealand-specific research matters
Environmental impacts can vary significantly depending on regional factors such as electricity generation, transport distances, and waste management systems.
By incorporating operational data from Wellington Hospital, the study aims to produce insights that are directly relevant to healthcare providers across New Zealand.
Our role in the project
At MyImprint, we have been supporting the project by providing technical expertise and guidance on the Life Cycle Assessment.
Looking ahead
We are proud to support Dr Katherine and Dr Alice in this important work and look forward to publishing the final results of the study.
Get in touch with us at MyImprint if you need support with a Life Cycle Assessment for your business or product
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