Optimal safety and pooled technical success rate for ERCP performed with single-use duodenoscopes

In recent years, serious concerns regarding the risk of duodenoscope-related cross-infections have emerged, especially in the setting of multi-drug resistance strains, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae [1,2]. In 2015, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched the first alert regarding duodenoscope safety and promoted the development of various strategies to overcome the issue of duodenoscope contamination and related infections. Among these strategies, serial microbial assessment, reinforced reprocessing procedures, and transition from fixed endcap to newer design allowing inspection and through cleaning, have been adopted.