New research showed that liquid chemical sterilization and double high-level disinfection are equally effective at reprocessing duodenoscopes, but still left low rates of positive cultures, Gastroenterology & Endoscopy News reports.
Researchers presented their findings at ACG 2019, Oct. 25-30 in San Antonio.
What you should know:
1. Both methods were studied by Mark Gromski, MD, of Indianapolis-based Indiana University School of Medicine. IU uses both methods to reprocess duodenoscopes.
2. Based on the findings, IU will continue to use both reprocessing methods, but noted other organizations should consider cost and the setup of the reprocessing facility when choosing a method.
3. Researchers took 878 surveillance cultures after reprocessing the scopes following one of the two methods. Seventeen cultures were positive. Two cultures grew a high-concern organism, and no culture grew any drug-resistant organisms.
4. Commenting on duodenoscope cross-contamination, Dr. Gromski said it was of the utmost importance to identify effective strategies to reduce such contamination.
5. Duodenoscope reprocessing remains a topic of debate, with the FDA recommending facilities purchase scopes with disposable components.
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