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The occurrence of several well-publicized duodenoscope-related infections, some of which resulted in patient deaths, has triggered vendors to develop single-use duodenoscopes that should, in theory, eliminate the risk for cross-patient infection. A recent benchtop study compared the performances of the first disposable duodenoscope and the three commercially available reusable models.
For each duodenoscope, the authors assessed four common maneuvers performed during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) — guidewire locking, plastic stent placement and removal, metal stent placement and removal, and sweeping a simulated common bile duct with a stone retrieval basket. Duodenoscopes were also rated for navigation and “pushabilit…