Safely reprocessing duodenoscopes: current evidence and future directions. (July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rubin, Zachary A; Kim, Stephen; Thaker, Adarsh M; Muthusamy, V Raman
• Is Part Of: Lancet gastroenterology and hepatology. Volume 3:Number 7(2018)
• Page Start: 499
• Page End: 508
• Publication Date: 2018-07
• DOI: 10.1016/S2468-1253(18)30122-5
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2468-1253

Abstract

Summary: Highly publicised outbreaks of various infections related to the use of duodenoscopes have increased public awareness of the once arcane and largely ignored subject of endoscope reprocessing. Since 2015, national professional societies, multiple federal agencies, and even the US Senate have written reports and guidelines on duodenoscope reprocessing. However, their recommendations are sometimes contradictory and difficult to implement, and new research on the topic is published regularly which further complicates the situation. With this flood of new and sometimes contradictory information, clinicians can feel confused about how to assure the safety of their patients undergoing duodenosocopy. This Review summarises the most salient current research on duodenoscope-associated outbreaks and reprocessing, and aims to provide clinicians with practical information applicable to their practice.