Continued Risks Of Duodenoscopes Leads FDA To Recommend Disposable Cap Devices

After a study earlier this year found that fixed endcap duodenoscopes continued to pose a significant risk of infecting patients after being washed, the US agency is now urging providers to switch to newer-designed scopes that reduce or eliminate the risk from reprocessing, such as duodenoscopes that have interchangeable caps. The directive from the FDA is good news for Boston Scientific, which makes a disposable duodenoscope that is close to being approved by the agency.

Endoscopy. Doctor holding endoscope and lightig before colonoscopy - Video Duodenoscope - Image

The US Food and Drug Administration has issued a safety communication to hospitals and providers to transition from using fixed endcap duodenoscopes to ones where the cap can be switched out. The risk of infections from fixed duodenoscopes has led the agency to take a second look at the devices and find solutions to reduce harm to patients.

Read the full article – start your free trial today!

Join thousands of industry professionals who rely on Medtech Insight for daily insights

  • Start your 7-day free trial
  • Explore trusted news, analysis, and insights
  • Access comprehensive global coverage
  • Enjoy instant access – no credit card required

More from Regulation

Secretary Kennedy’s FDA Visit Included CDRH Stop, Speech Warning Of ‘Agency Capture’

 
• By 

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. urged FDA staff to resist the “deep state” and “crony capitalism,” and focus on improving the health of America’s children. “You're not here to take orders,” he said and urged FDA staff to speak up if they see wrongdoing.

FDA Reverses Course, Allows Some Telework For Reviewers

 

The new telework policy returns to the pre-COVID-19 pandemic standard, but still requires reviewers to be at White Oak for sponsor meetings and divisions to have an in-office presence every day.

Opportunity For Medtech To Contribute To EU Cybersecurity Recommendations

 

The deadline for comments is 30 June 2025

EU Harmonized Standards Continue To Trickle In Under MDR

 

Well over 200 European standards need harmonizing under the MDR. But only around 12% have been attended to so far.

More from Policy & Regulation

FDA Reverses Course, Allows Some Telework For Reviewers

 

The new telework policy returns to the pre-COVID-19 pandemic standard, but still requires reviewers to be at White Oak for sponsor meetings and divisions to have an in-office presence every day.

Opportunity For Medtech To Contribute To EU Cybersecurity Recommendations

 

The deadline for comments is 30 June 2025

Dexcom Wins FDA Nod For 15-Day G7 CGM, Closing Gap With Abbott’s 14-Day FreeStyle Libre

 
• By 

Dexcom announced it received US clearance for its 15-day CGM, which has a MARD of 8.0% and is expected to launch in the second half of 2025 to allow for integration with insulin pumps.