Duodenoscopes are flexible devices used in ERCP procedures (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) to view the pancreas and bile ducts. These devices are meant to be sterilized and re-used, but due to their design, complete sterilization is not always possible. This has, tragically, resulted in outbreaks of “superbug” or carbapenem-resistant enteriobacteriaceae (CRE) infections in a number of hospitals.
In 2015, the FDA issued a safety communication, stating:
“The moving parts of the elevator mechanism contain microscopic crevices that may not be reached with a brush. … Residual body fluids and organic debris may remain in these crevices after cleaning and disinfection. If these fluids contain microbial contamination, subsequent patients may be exposed to serious infections.”
These devices are used in approximately 500,000 patients in America each year. If you suffered a “superbug” infection, or antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection, shortly following an ERCP procedure, we urge you to seek justice for your injuries. Call the Miller Firm attorneys at 1-800-882-2525 or email us at [email protected]. Our lawyers have the ability to represent clients across the country against the manufacturers of this device and would pursue your case as an individual lawsuit if it meets our qualifying criteria.