Cook Medical, Ambu A/S to jointly address endoscope-related infections

The two firms will bring forth single-use endoscopes to patients undergoing ERCP procedures to reduce the risk associated with serious cross-contaminations.

Medical device company, Cook Medical Incorporated has recently agreed to enter into a partnership with Ambu A/S, under which it will supply Ambu’s disposable, single-use duodenoscope in the U.S., following an FDA clearance. According to sources, the scope currently being developed by Ambu will help in addressing infections triggered by cross-contamination.

For the uninitiated, U.S. regulatory authorities, since 2015, have intensified their focus on cross-contamination in endoscope, particularly on reusable endoscopes used for gastrointestinal procedures, as it poses a contamination risk to patients mostly due to being more difficult to reprocess between uses.

However, as single-use scopes do not require cleaning or repair, it is likely that they will have a significant impact on device-related infections and improve hospital workflows, cite reports.

According to a statement, Barry Slowey, VP, Endoscopy business, Cook Medical, said that the firm aims on improving patient care and is seeking ways to reduce the risk of infections associated with the use of reusable endoscopes. He said that the collaboration with Ambu is based on a shared goal to enhance patient safety.

Juan Jose Gonzalez, CEO, Ambu, said that the partnership marks a major milestone towards the firm’s vision of developing a single-use ERCP solution, adding that the company, in conjunction with Cook Medical, plans on bringing single-use endoscopes to patients undertaking ERCP procedures to reduce the risk associated with serious cross-contaminations.

Founded in 1963, Cook Medical has closely worked with doctors to develop technologies that prevent the necessity for open surgery. Presently, the company is combining biologic materials, medical devices, and cellular therapies to help the world’s healthcare systems offer better outcomes more efficiently. 

In the meantime, Ambu is presently seeking regulatory clearance from the United States FDA for the single use duodenoscope developed by the company. The products are expected to be released in the U.S. prior to the end of 2020.

Source Credit: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190518005026/en/Cook-Medical-Ambu-Announce-Collaboration-Address-Endoscope-Related

https://www.cookmedical.com/newsroom/cook-medical-ambu-announce-collaboration/