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Rigid sigmoidoscopy: a potential hazard for cross-contamination

D Z Lubowski1, G L Newstead

  • 1Department of Colorectal Surgery, St. George and Prince of Wales Hospitals, Sydney, Australia. davidlubowski@sydneycolorectal.com.au

Surgical Endoscopy
|January 19, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Rigid sigmoidoscopy with disposable instruments is not sterile. Bacteria, including E. coli, were found in the insufflation bellows and light head, posing a cross-contamination risk.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Medical Device Sterilization

Background:

  • Rigid sigmoidoscopy is a common outpatient procedure.
  • The sterility of nondisposable sigmoidoscope components (bellows, light head) is often assumed.
  • This study investigated the presence of enteric organisms in these components.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if enteric organisms colonize the bellows and light head of sigmoidoscopes.
  • To assess the potential for microbial contamination during rigid sigmoidoscopy procedures.

Main Methods:

  • Bacterial cultures were obtained from simulated insufflation bellows (Jackson-Pratt bulbs) in 12 patients.
  • Cultures were also taken from the light head of nondisposable sigmoidoscopes in 9 patients.

Main Results:

  • Enteric gram-negative and mixed anaerobic organisms, including E. coli, were cultured from simulated bellows.
  • Gram-negative bacteria such as Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella, along with Enterococcus faecalis, were identified in the light heads.

Conclusions:

  • Rigid sigmoidoscopy using disposable instruments is not a sterile procedure.
  • Contamination of bellows and light heads may lead to patient-to-patient cross-contamination.
  • This highlights the need for improved sterilization or handling protocols for sigmoidoscope components.

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