Safety and reliability of reused expensive disposables in shoulder arthroscopy procedures

SummaryReprocessing single-use arthroscopic instruments - particularly radio-frequency devices and suture-passing devices - has become standard practice in Zhejiang Province, China. Although this approach offers substantial economic advantages, emerging evidence suggests that reuse of certain items may pose elevated risks of thermal injury and mechanical failure. Here, we discuss the prevalence of this practice within China, outline documented hazards, propose evidence-based mitigation strategies, and explore the ethical dimensions of resource-limited surgical care.