Authors' objectives: The CEDIT assessed the value of ultraviolet rays UV-C (the Antigermix device) used for disinfection of endocavitary ultrasonography probes (endorectal and endovaginal), potential carriers for microbiological contaminations accross patients.

Authors' recommendations: Considering the available data, the CEDIT makes the following recommandnations: Awaiting the opinion from the HCSP, unchanged practice in user departments that are already equipped with Antigermix, but no purchase. This position is justified by the uncertainty linked with the future recommendations and their associated cost. If the opinion of the HCSP is favorable to the widespread use of UV-C or more generally to the systematic use of high level disinfection between two exams, Antigermix or one of its alternatives (including soaking), should be used in accordance with the organization of user departments. In this case, and since the current level of evidence supporting the clinical effectiveness of Antigermix remains low (see clinical aspects above), the CEDIT considers that a prospective comparative study evaluating the efficacy of this equipment and its appropriateness for the prevention of nosocomial infections has to be put in place. If the opinion of the HCSP confirms the current recommendations, the CEDIT considers that it is not necessary to systematically acquire Antigermix systems for endocavitary (endorectal and endovaginal) sonography purposes.

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2015

URL for published report: http://cedit.aphp.fr/antigermix-disinfection-endocavitary-ultrasonography-probes/

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Organisation Name: Cellule Innovation of the AP-HP

Copyright: Comite d´Evaluation et de Diffusion des Innovations Technologiques (CEDIT)