A proposed Canadian class action has been commenced alleging that certain endoscope devices may expose patients to serious and potentially life-threatening infections.
On April 13, 2026, Siskinds LLP’s Québec affiliate, Siskinds Desmeules, filed an application before the Superior Court of Quebec seeking authorization to institute a class proceeding on behalf of Canadians who suffered complications following endoscopy procedures involving products of the medical device manufacturer Olympus.
The claim alleges that certain widely used endoscope devices—medical tools designed to view, diagnose, and treat conditions inside the body—contain safety defects and put patients at high risk of infections, all of which were inadequately disclosed to Canadians and their doctors.
What are endoscopes?
Endoscopes are flexible medical devices equipped with a camera and light, allowing physicians to examine internal organs and perform procedures.
Endoscopes are routinely used in a variety of procedures, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures (ERCPs), involving the digestive, respiratory, and urinary systems and play a critical role in modern diagnostics and treatment.
Alleged defects in endoscope design and manufacturing
The class action alleges that certain endoscope products made by the Olympus group of companies are defective. These devices contain complex internal components—such as narrow channels, joints, and elevator mechanisms—that make them difficult or impossible to properly clean and disinfect between uses.
The lawsuit further alleges that:
- Biological material and microorganisms can become trapped within the devices
- Standard cleaning and sterilization procedures may fail to eliminate contamination
- Persistent bacteria can form biofilms, allowing them to survive disinfection processes
- Contaminated endoscopes may transmit harmful bacteria from one patient to another
Serious infections and complications linked to endoscope use
Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant organisms can be particularly difficult to treat.
Complications associated with exposure to these dangerous bacteria may include:
- Severe infections, including drug-resistant infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Bloodstream infections (bacteremia)
- Sepsis and septic shock
- Hospital-acquired pneumonia
- Endocarditis
- Organ damage and other serious complications
- Prolonged hospitalization and intensive care treatment
- Failure of antibiotic treatment due to resistance
- Death
These risks may arise even when healthcare providers strictly follow manufacturer-recommended cleaning and disinfection procedures.
Who may be included in the class action?
The proposed class includes individuals across Canada who underwent procedures involving the affected endoscope products and subsequently suffered certain bodily injuries, including infections, complications, or death.
Siskinds is pursuing justice for affected patients
Siskinds LLP is seeking compensation for Canadians who experienced serious harm following endoscopic procedures. The action aims to address physical, emotional, and financial losses suffered by patients and their families.
If you or someone you know experienced complications after an endoscopic procedure, you may be eligible to participate in this class action. Contact Siskinds by email at [email protected], call 1-800-461-6166, or visit the Endoscopes Class Action webpage and complete the registration form on the page.