Endoscopic disinfection: a worldwide problem.

Safety of endoscopic procedures has been a major issue over the last 10 years. Outbreak of new infectious diseases (type C) hepatitis, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease) underlines the necessity for strengthening cleaning and disinfection guidelines. Patients should be ensured that all endoscopic procedures are carried out with high-level disinfection endoscopes and with sterile or single-use accessories. Improvements from a hygienic point of view of both endoscopes and washer-disinfectors are important goals for manufacturers. Adequate training of endoscopic staff is one of the most crucial points to achieve the highest quality control standards in digestive endoscopy.