Reuse of disposable laparoscopic instruments: a study of related surgical complications

To determine the rate of surgical complications related to reuse of disposable laparoscopic instruments. A review of all laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures done between August 1990 and January 1994 in which disposable laparoscopic instruments were reused. Department of general surgery in a 461-bed teaching hospital. Patients who underwent 874 laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures in which disposable laparoscopic instruments were reused according to validated reprocessing protocols. The incidence of superficial and deep wound infections and complications related to instrument malfunction. The combined rate for deep and superficial infections was 1.8%. No complications related to a disposable instrument malfunction were found. Disposable laparoscopic instruments may be safely reused under carefully monitored conditions and with strict guidelines.