Doctors use endoscopes to look inside patients’ bodies to screen for diseases, abnormalities, and, in some cases, treat existing conditions. The device consists of a light and video camera attached to a long, thin plastic tube. But a certain type of endoscope has come under scrutiny for potentially spreading carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE)—a potentially deadly antibiotic-resistant infection—even when proper disinfection procedures are followed.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), duodenoscopes, a type of endoscope used for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures to examine the pancreatic and bile ducts, are designed in a way that may prevent full cleaning and disinfection.
Our lawyers want to help if you or someone you love developed a serious, unexplained illness after an endoscopic procedure. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we’re here to help protect your legal rights—call or contact us online for a free case review today.
ERCP Endoscopes May Spread Superbug Infections
Sterilizing duodenoscopes between uses requires hospital personnel to follow a detailed, multistep process. But this may only reduce, rather than eliminate, the risk of transmitting serious infections such as CRE. According to lawsuits filed by hospital superbug victims, certain endoscope designs prevent total disinfection between uses, resulting in life-threatening infections.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported this potential link between multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, like CRE, and patients who have undergone an ERCP with reprocessed duodenoscopes. The CDC reports that CRE infections are very difficult to treat and can be deadly. One report cites they can contribute to death in up to 50% of patients who become infected.
Popular Endoscope Cleaning System Recalled
An estimated 2,800 Custom Ultrasonics AER devices, used to clean endoscopes between uses were recalled by the FDA in November 2015. The recall was initiated after the manufacturers failed to meet demands set by the FDA after a number of safety violations. Additionally, several major manufacturers of duodenoscopes have been required by the FDA to reevaluate their sterilization processes and instructions.
Get Help From Cory Watson Attorneys
Medical devices are supposed to improve your care, not put you at risk of potentially fatal infection. If you or someone you love contracted a serious infection after an ERCP duodenoscope procedure, our lawyers want to hear your story. Call or contact Cory Watson Attorneys online to get the experienced help you deserve today.
This law firm is not associated with, sponsored by, or affiliated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Custom Ultrasonics, or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.