Disposable Duodenoscope Cap Enhances Infection Prevention

A unique duodenoscope with a disposable elevator cap (DEC) offers clinicians a new solution for improving reprocessing outcomes.

The Pentax Medical (Tokyo, Japan) DEC duodenoscope is intended for use in routine and therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures, providing detailed high definition (HD) visualization of mucosal structures to locate minor papillae and to support detection and characterization of lesions. The improved elevator shape and the ergonomic design of the new duodenoscope facilitate easy cannulation and precise, controlled positioning during procedures; easy attachment and removal of the DEC further support this increase in efficiency.

In addition, the improved design of the distal end of the DEC duodenoscope allows easy access for brush cleaning with the exposure of critical surfaces of the device. The new features are designed to address the increasing incidences of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections that have been linked to improper cleaning or disinfection of duodenoscope elevator mechanisms. Together with the disposable nature of the DEC, the overall result is a decrease in reprocessing time, with no compromise on outcome.

“The new DEC Duodensocope is a world-first, combining high quality imaging and therapeutic performance with pioneering patient safety features to help reducing the risk of cross-contamination and infection,” said Rainer Burkard, President of EMEA at Pentax Medical. “Simplified reprocessing procedures also help to increase departmental productivity for confident reprocessing. With patient safety and hygiene a key focus for Pentax Medical, we are proud to introduce such an innovative solution to enhance infection prevention for improved patient care.”

The duodenum is the first and shortest segment of the small intestine, located inferior to the stomach. It receives partially digested food (chyme) from the stomach and plays an important role in the chemical digestion of food prior to absorption in the small intestine. Secretions from the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder mix with the chyme in the duodenum to facilitate chemical digestion.