The use of acetic acid in magnification chromocolonoscopy for pit pattern analysis of small polyps.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: The role of acetic acid spray during magnification chromocolonoscopy has not previously been evaluated. We aimed to compare the accuracy of predicting polyp histology at magnification colonoscopy, using acetic acid and indigo carmine, either alone or in combination. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 46 consecutive patients with polyps detected during colonoscopy which measured 10 mm or less were alternately divided into two groups. In group A patients, 1.5 % acetic acid was applied to the mucosa first, followed by indigo carmine spray; in group B patients, the order was reversed. The pit pattern was assessed after application, in real time. All the lesions were resected and examined histologically. RESULTS: Altogether, 37 adenomas and 36 hyperplastic polyps were evaluated. In group A, the diagnostic accuracy after spraying with acetic acid was 95 %, which increased to 98 % after application of indigo carmine. In group B, the accuracy after indigo carmine application was 83 %. After subsequent spraying with acetic acid, images were enhanced in 70 % of patients, with an increase in accuracy to 97 %. The mean time required to obtain an initial clear image with the first dye was 14 seconds for both groups. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first description of the use of acetic acid for pit pattern analysis of colonic polyps. Its ease of use, low cost, and safety, together with its excellent accuracy in the assessment of polyp pit patterns suggest that this method could easily be applied to routine magnification colonoscopy.

Electrical stimulation for propelling endoscopes.

BACKGROUND: Methods are needed for propulsion of endoscopes and wireless video capsules along the small intestine. This work aims to test the hypothesis that electrical stimulation could propel an endoscope by stimulating muscular contraction. METHODS: Prototype acrylic ovoid-shaped devices were constructed with 2 stainless steel electrodes mounted on the tapered section. Five devices 15 to 23 mm diameter with a taper of 28 degrees to 40 degrees (included angle) were tested. When these devices were in contact with the bowel wall, electrostimulation was applied causing circular muscle contraction, which when applied to the taper of the ovoid resulted in forward propulsion of the device. The method does not induce peristalsis but works by stimulating local contraction. The device was tested in the small intestine and esophagus of anesthetized pigs. RESULTS: Electrostimulation caused the ovoid to advance rapidly (6 mm/sec) up and down the esophagus by inducing circular esophageal muscle contraction. When stimulated at 15 Hz with 30-ms pulses, the threshold for movement in the small intestine was 12 mA; at 20 mA the device moved reliably in either direction in the small intestine at speeds of up to 4.5 mm/sec and negotiated tight curves. CONCLUSION: Electrostimulation can move endoscopes in the small intestine.

The measurement of forces exerted during colonoscopy.

BACKGROUND: The widely varying forces used at colonoscopy have not been measured. An electronic device was designed to measure the forces exerted by the clinician on the endoscope during colonoscopy. METHODS: The device featured a handle designed in the shape of a hinged split cylinder that could be locked around the endoscope but readily moved up and down the insertion tube as the colonoscopy proceeded. This cylinder contained strain-gauges arranged so that the forces transmitted could be accurately measured. The device recorded the torque forces in addition to the push and pull forces exerted during diagnostic colonoscopy. RESULTS: In a series of 21 colonoscopies in 20 patients: peak pushing force = 4.4 kg, pulling force = -1.8 kg, anti-clockwise torque = 1.0 Newton meters, clockwise torque = 0.8 Newton meters. Percentage time force greater than 1 kg = 5%. Peak anal insertion force = 1.8 kg. CONCLUSIONS: These measurements represent the first accurate measurements of the forces exerted during colonoscopy. Reducing the force during colonoscopy is likely to diminish pain and reduce the risk of perforation. A knowledge of these forces may also help with the design of new instruments and models for teaching or research.

Successful treatment of resistant cryptococcal meningitis with amphotericin B lipid emulsion after nephrotoxicity with conventional intravenous amphotericin B.

Various formulations have been developed in an effort to reduce the toxicity of amphotericin B. We report a case of cryptococcal meningitis in a 31-year-old HIV-positive man which was successfully treated with amphotericin B lipid emulsion.