Infections linked to ERCP procedures are burdening Italy’s healthcare system with significant financial implications. A recent study highlights the economic strain caused by multidrug-resistant organisms transmitted via duodenoscopes, particularly affecting vulnerable patient groups.
Rising Infection Rates Among Vulnerable Groups
The investigation encompassed 686 first-time ERCP inpatients between 2018 and 2021 at A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino. Findings revealed a 4.2% overall infection rate, with higher incidences in women, elderly patients over 70, those admitted on an emergency basis, and notably among transplant recipients, who faced a staggering 19.1% infection rate. Common pathogens identified included Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Clostridium difficile, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Staphylococcus aureus.
Economic Impact and Healthcare Strain
Infected patients experienced a doubling of hospital stays, averaging 24.3 days compared to 11.3 days for non-infected individuals. This prolonged hospitalization contributed to a 28% increase in average healthcare costs per patient, escalating from €9,561 to €12,256. With an estimated 25,000 ERCP procedures performed annually in Italy, the cumulative direct costs of these infections amount to approximately €2.9 million each year.
- Women and elderly patients are at higher risk of post-ERCP infections.
- Transplant patients face the highest infection rates at 19.1%.
- Healthcare costs escalate by 28% due to infections.
- Annual direct costs related to ERCP infections reach €2.9 million in Italy.
Implementing stringent sterilization protocols and adopting cost-effective prevention strategies could alleviate the financial and health burdens identified. Enhancing infection control measures during ERCP procedures is crucial to safeguarding patients and reducing unnecessary healthcare expenditures.
Advanced training for medical staff on the proper handling of duodenoscopes, regular maintenance and inspection of endoscopic equipment, and rigorous adherence to sterilization guidelines are essential steps. Additionally, investing in newer technologies that minimize contamination risks may offer long-term savings and improved patient outcomes.
Healthcare policymakers must prioritize the allocation of resources towards infection prevention in ERCP procedures. By addressing the root causes of these infections, Italy can not only improve patient safety but also reduce the substantial economic impact on its healthcare system.
Proactive measures and continuous monitoring of infection rates will be key in mitigating the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms. Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, administrators, and policymakers are necessary to implement effective strategies that ensure both patient well-being and financial sustainability.

This article has been prepared with the assistance of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author.