Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) are difficult to treat infections.  A recent story in USA Today noted their association with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)/duodenoscopes.  According to the article, the FDA is working with the manufacturers to eliminate this risk.  Compared to other endoscopes, the side-viewing scopes are more technically-difficult to clean because of its “elevator” mechanisms.  “The biggest cases involved dozens of patients and multiple deaths.”  It is likely that more frequent and easier-to-treat infections may be transmitted as well; these types of infections generally do not result in full-fledged epidemiological investigations. Here’s the link: “Deadly bacteria on medical scopes trigger infections” This link has particularly good diagrams explaining resistant organisms.  It is important to emphasize that these infections, to my knowledge, have not been reported with the more common endoscopic procedures.  Because of technical differences in the scopes, the standard cleaning procedures are effective for upper endoscopies and colonoscopies. Related posts:

• What and When for ERCP with Gallstone Pancreatitis …
• Why an ERCP Study Matters to Pediatric Care | gutsandgrowth