Improper reprocessing of flexible endoscope biopsy valves
March 31, 2008
The Veterans Health Administration Warning System released a Patient Safety Alert regarding the improper set-up and reprocessing of flexible endoscope tubing and accessories.
A VA medical center noted that their semi-disposable (i.e., reusable to an extent; limited use) biopsy valves (Olympus part number MB-358) for their colonoscopes (Olympus Model CF-180AL) and esophago-gastro-duodeno (EGD) scopes (Olympus Model GIF-H180) were not being reprocessed properly. The caps of the semi-disposable biopsy valves were not opened up (see the figures in Attachment 1), and hence were not cleaned, brushed, and disinfected or sterilized according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This resulted in the presence of bioburden on the semidisposable biopsy valves. The facility has since switched to use of disposable biopsy valves for their flexible endoscopes.