Latest California Healthline Stories
Gas Relief Drops, Often Added To Medical Scopes, May Pose Danger
In a small study, Minnesota researchers found that the infant drops used to increase visibility during procedures may create a “perfect habitat” for bacteria and make scopes harder to clean.
University of California OKs $8.5 Million For Two Patients Suing Over Financial Conflicts
The patients allege that Dr. Jeffrey Wang, former executive director of UCLA’s spine center, failed to disclose his conflicts of interest with device maker Medtronic before using the company’s devices in surgeries that left them in chronic pain. Both UCLA and Medtronic deny wrongdoing.
Congressman Decries Olympus’ Failure To Warn U.S. Hospitals About Tainted Scopes
U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) renews his call for tightened laws that would force manufacturers to notify the U.S. Food and Drug Administration when they issue safety warnings in other countries related to the design and cleaning of their devices.
Olympus Told U.S. Executives No Broad Scope Warning Needed Despite Superbug Outbreaks
Internal emails show that after the Tokyo-based device maker alerted customers in Europe in 2013, it told its U.S. operation not to widely warn U.S. doctors and hospitals. Since then, at least 35 patients have died after being sickened in outbreaks.
FDA Retreats From Recall Of Scope-Cleaning Machines Tied To Outbreaks
After a wave of sometimes-deadly superbug infections, the agency last year ordered a recall of Custom Ultrasonics machines used to disinfect medical scopes. Now, with little explanation, it is backing off.
Tainted Scope Infections Far Exceed Earlier Estimates
House panel concludes inquiry on superbug outbreaks; one member prepares legislation “to make sure these situations don’t happen again.”
CT Scans For Minor Injuries On A Rapid Rise In California Emergency Rooms
Researchers say they’re reporting the facts, but not taking a stand on CT “overuse.”
Device Maker Olympus Hiked Prices For Scopes As Superbug Infections Spread
The device manufacturer had a close relationship with Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles — until its scopes were linked to infections and the company raised the price for new ones by 28 percent.
Leading Scope Maker Olympus Agrees To Hefty Settlement In Kickback Cases
The company will pay $646 million to end civil and criminal probes. Olympus’ leaders acknowledge responsibility for “past conduct” they say was inconsistent with the firm’s values.
Urging Openness About Superbug Infections, Doctor Omits Cases In Own Hospital
In a respected medical journal, a specialist advises colleagues on protecting patients but doesn’t mention potential infections from a contaminated scope at his Philadelphia cancer center.