Cardiologists demand review of ban on reuse of single-use medical devices

Cardiologists have come forward against the strict ban imposed by the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) on the reuse of single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items. Experts at the annual conference of the Kerala Chapter of the Cardiological Society of India (CSI) have demanded a review of this order. Doctors believe that this ban will make life-saving procedures such as angioplasty extremely expensive and inaccessible for common citizens.

Ashokan P.K., President of the CSI Kerala Chapter, stated that given the skyrocketing prices of medical devices and their associated consumables, it is imperative to reconsider this decision. According to Pratap Kumar N., Organizing Chairman of the conference, complex angioplasty requires several specialized tools, the cost of which is much higher than the amount received in reimbursement packages of government health insurance schemes. Therefore, making this treatment affordable for common patients is a major challenge.

Dr. Pratap Kumar suggested that allowing the controlled reuse of devices that have been scientifically proven to be safe could reduce the cost of treatment. He clarified that cardiologists wish to prepare a list of devices that can be reused after being sterilized under scientific protocols. However, he emphasized that patient safety is paramount. Any reuse must occur only under scientific evidence, proper sterilization, efficacy testing, and strict regulatory oversight.

On the other hand, the DGHS order states that the reuse of single-use items is a matter of serious concern for patient safety, infection control, and regulatory compliance. According to the department, the reuse of such devices could increase the risk of cross-infection in patients, device failure, reduced performance, and other complications. However, the reality is that the reuse of devices while maintaining quality has been a common practice in many private and government hospitals across the country.

In the year 2017, the Cardiological Society of India released a consensus document titled 'Guidance on Reuse of Cardio-Vascular Catheters and Devices in India'. In which reuse was supported with specific conditions. According to this document, there should be a clear definition of which devices can be reused, the sterilization process must be precise, and obtaining patient consent is essential. Additionally, it was stated that the cost savings resulting from this process should directly benefit the patient.

Modern technologies such as drug-coated balloons, drug-eluting stents, leadless pacemakers, and management of heart failure were also discussed at this conference. Experts have demanded extensive consultation between medical experts, infection control specialists, and regulatory authorities to maintain a balance between safety and affordable treatment.

The Cardiological Society of India (CSI) is a prestigious organization of India's cardiologists. This institution provides a platform for heart specialists and works to prepare guidelines to maintain quality and ethical standards in cardiac treatment. In the past, this organization has also emphasized adopting a scientific approach regarding the safe use of devices used in complex cardiovascular procedures.