Inadequate Decontamination Procedures: Sepsis Following Uneventful Endoscopy

Abstract

Exogenous infection following endoscopy remains rare, however, recent attention in the media and the rise of antibacterial resistant strains of bacteria have emphasized the importance of proper sterilization techniques involved in the reprocessing of endoscopes and accessory devices. This chapter serves as comprehensive review into the epidemiology of exogenous infections as well as basic reprocessing techniques and guidelines for all medical professionals that treat patients that would benefit from endoscopy.