A two-step method for marking polypectomy sites in the colon and rectum.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Accurate intraoperative localization of colorectal polypectomy sites is crucial for both laparoscopic and open surgeries.
• Conventional marking methods can be unreliable, posing challenges in surgical navigation.
• A novel two-step tattooing technique is introduced for improved identification of these sites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a new two-step tattooing method for marking colorectal polypectomy sites.
• To assess the safety, ease of application, and accuracy of this novel marking technique.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen patients with postpolypectomy lesions requiring preoperative marking were included.
• A two-step endoscopic injection process was utilized: first, physiologic saline solution to create a submucosal elevation (pseudopolyp), followed by India ink injection into the pseudopolyp.
• The method was applied to mark lesions prior to laparoscopic or open surgical intervention.

Main Results:

• The two-step tattooing method was successfully and easily applied to all 18 patients without any complications.
• All marked polypectomy sites were immediately visualized and accurately identified during subsequent surgical procedures.
• The technique demonstrated high efficacy in preoperative marking of colorectal lesions.

Conclusions:

• The described two-step tattooing method is an easy, safe, and accurate approach for marking colorectal polypectomy sites.
• This technique offers a reliable solution for intraoperative localization, potentially improving surgical outcomes.
• The study supports the clinical utility of this novel method in gastrointestinal surgery.