The new 222‐nm far ultraviolet‐C lowers bacterial contamination to endoscopists during esophagogastroduodenoscopy

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to clarify the disinfectant efficacy of the 222‐nm far ultraviolet‐C (UV‐C) during esophagogastroduodenoscopy using bacterial cultures. METHODS: The endoscopists performed esophagogastroduodenoscopy wearing a gown with a tryptic soy agar medium plate on their epigastric region and were divided into two groups: 222‐nm far UV‐C irradiation (UV group) and non‐UV irradiation (non‐UV group). As a control group, tryptic soy agar medium plates were placed about 110 cm above the floor. The incidence of bacterial contamination was determined by positive bacterial culture. The cultured bacteria were identified by 16S rRNA sequencing. Additionally, the actual UV exposure dose was measured using the UV‐indicator card which changed colors upon exposure to 222 nm far UV‐C. RESULTS: The bacterial culture positivity in the UV group (5.03%) was significantly lower than that in the non‐UV group (25.76%), p < 0.0001. Most of the bacteria identified in the UV and non‐UV groups were normal constituents of the oral flora, including Streptococcus salivarius and Staphylococci. Conversely, pathogenic microbes were found in the control group. The actual exposure doses of 222‐nm far UV‐C at the endoscopists’ face, neck, and epigastric region were 2.09 ± 0.29, 5.89 ± 0.49, and 7.36 ± 0.58 mJ/cm(2), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The 222‐nm far UV‐C irradiation reduced bacterial contamination for endoscopists. It can be used with conventional physical coverings to provide more effective infection control.