Electrical malfunction at endoscopy. Possible cause of arrhythmia and death.

Gastroscopy-associated electrical shock occurred in two cases, with one death. An ACMI Wappler transformer-powered Hirschowitz flexible fiber-gastroscope was used. Ideally, endoscopes should not contain electrically conductive material or metals that might corrode. Electrical systems used at endoscopy should conform to the existing standards for "electrically sensitive patient" localtions, and should be subject to the routine maintenance procedure prescribed for equipment in such locations by the National Fire Protection Agency.