Heart Device Reuse: Safety vs. Affordability Debate

Cardiologists are urging a review of a recent directive from the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) that strictly prohibits the sterilization and re-use of single-use medical devices. This prohibition, cited for patient safety reasons, is being challenged by the Cardiological Society of India (CSI), Kerala chapter, who argue it hinders affordability.

Asokan P.K., president of the CSI Kerala Chapter, stated that the exorbitant cost of essential medical devices makes crucial procedures such as angioplasty inaccessible to many. He noted that reimbursement rates under government health insurance schemes frequently do not cover the actual expenses of advanced cardiac interventions.

The CSI advocates for the regulated re-use of select interventional devices, such as catheters and guidewires, provided their safety and efficacy can be scientifically validated. This approach, they believe, could reduce treatment costs and broaden access to modern cardiac care.

However, the DGHS order highlights patient safety, infection prevention, and device malfunction risks associated with re-use. Despite this, the sterilization and re-use of medical devices are common practices in many Indian hospitals. A 2017 CSI consensus document supported re-use under strict conditions, including thorough disinfection, functional testing, patient consent, and passing cost savings directly to patients.