Int J Gastrointest Interv.  2022 Jan;11(1):1-4. 10.18528/ijgii210055.

Single-use endoscopes: A narrative review

• Elghannam MT
• Hassanien MH
• Ameen YA
• Elattar GM
• Ray AAE
• Turky EAW
• Talkawy MDE

• KMID: 2525556
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.18528/ijgii210055

Abstract

The transmission of infections through gastrointestinal endoscopy is a vital issue. The main problem lies in the use of duodenoscopes due to mechanical aspects of the scope design. Even with high-level disinfection, sterilization of the scope can fail. Hence, the Food and Drug Administration has encouraged a shift to single-use endoscopes. Available options include endoscopes with single-use components (mainly single-use endcaps), fully single-use duodenoscopes (SUDs), and even those with a disposable elevator mechanism. Clinical trials revealed that both reusable and single-use scopes have the same efficacy, while single-use scopes have benefits in terms of infection control, economic considerations, and ease of reprocessing. A few drawbacks are left to be dealt with. Reusable duodenoscopes with removable/disposable endcaps are satisfactory except in specific situations where SUDs are better to use.

Keyword

Ease of reprocessing; Economic benefit; Infection transmission; Reusable flexible scopes; Single use duodenoscopes