Recommendations for the Cleaning and Disinfection of Duodenoscope: A Consensus Statement

Duodenoscopes, which are used for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), structurally differ from gastrointestinal endoscopes due to their elevator mechanisms and complex internal channels. These features increase the risk of contamination with patient fluids and organic debris, posing significant infection risks. Despite multiple revisions of general endoscopic disinfection guidelines, specific guidelines tailored for duodenoscope reprocessing do not exist in our society and leaving gaps in infection control. Thus, the ERCP/endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) Research Group under the Korean Pancreatobiliary Association’s Quality Management Committee developed dedicated reprocessing guidelines focusing on pre-cleaning, cleaning, high-level disinfection, rinsing, drying, and storage procedures specifically for duodenoscopes. Recommendations are graded by strength (“strong” or “weak”) and based on evidence levels (A to D). These practical guidelines aim to enhance patient safety by standardizing duodenoscope reprocessing practices, minimizing infection transmission, and promoting continuous quality improvement within clinical practice.