https://gastroenterology.acponline.org/archives/2018/04/27/9.htm

FDA alerts clinicians about cross-contamination risk with certain endoscope connectors

Endoscope connectors labeled for use in multiple patients within a 24-hour period without reprocessing are not recommended for use because the FDA has not received acceptable testing data demonstrating their safety.


Certain connectors used in gastrointestinal endoscopy pose a risk of cross-contamination and are not recommended, the FDA announced on April 18.

Endoscope connectors that are labeled for use in multiple patients within a 24-hour period without reprocessing are not recommended for use because the FDA has not received acceptable testing data demonstrating their safety, the agency said. Endoscope connectors that are designed according to FDA recommendations are widely available and include backflow prevention features, the agency noted. These devices may be single-use or may be processed and reused between procedures.