title: Overview of the problem: reprocessing versus disposal of endoscopic accessories.
abstract: The decision to reuse or not reuse endoscopic accessories appears simple on the surface. Further reflection, however, reveals that the decision to purchase reusable accessories or reuse disposable accessories is complex and controversial. This article clarifies key issues surrounding the use of disposable and reusable endoscopic accessories. Discussion includes the advantages and disadvantages of disposable and reusable accessories, the issues surrounding reprocessing of reusable equipment, and the issues surrounding the reuse of disposable accessories.
authors.affiliation: Research Associate, Section of Gastroenterology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98111, USA.
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Raltz
authors.forename: R A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Kozarek
mesh_terms: D004209:Disposable Equipment; D020776:Endoscopes, Gastrointestinal / Q000382:microbiology*; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / Q000009:adverse effects; D004866:Equipment Contamination / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017743:Equipment Reuse; D004869:Equipment Safety; D006801:Humans; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014481:United States