Director General of Health Services warns hospitals against reusing single-use medical devices

25 October 2026

The Director General of Health Services has warned against the reuse of single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items in all public and private healthcare facilities.
The advisory says such items are being sterilised after one procedure and used again, particularly in cardiology, nephrology, oncology, cardiothoracic and vascular surgery and neurosurgery.
The risks listed are cross-infection, device malfunction, loss of performance and procedure-related complications.
The advisory also raises concerns about patient safety, infection control, regulatory compliance and healthcare costs.
It was sent by letter to Chief Secretaries, Health Secretaries and Directors of Health Services of all States and Union Territories.
States and Union Territories have been asked to enforce strict vigilance against such reuse.