A survey of reprocessing methods, residual viable bioburden, and soil levels in patient-ready endoscopic retrograde choliangiopancreatography duodenoscopes used in Canadian centers.

Objectives: To obtain information about current reprocessing practices and to obtain samples from the biopsy channel to quantitate soil levels and bioburden in patient-ready flexible duodenoscopes used for endoscopic retrograde choliangiopancreatography (ERCP).

Design: Participating centers were sent a questionnaire and a kit for on-site collection of samples from the biopsy channel of the duodenoscope.

Setting: Thirty-seven hospitals from across Canada participated.