Evaluation of a novel colonoscope designed for easier passage through flexures: a randomized study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Devices
• Endoscopy

Background:

• A novel colonoscope prototype (Olympus XCF-Q160AW) features an added passive bending function.
• This design aims to facilitate intubation through the challenging left colonic flexure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if the prototype's passive bending function can be integrated into standard colonoscopes.
• To determine if this integration compromises overall colonoscope performance, especially sigmoid colon passage.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 280 outpatients undergoing routine colonoscopy.
• Patients were assigned to either a standard colonoscope (Olympus 140 series) or the XCF-Q160AW prototype.
• Primary endpoints included cecal intubation rate and patient-reported pain levels.

Main Results:

• Cecal intubation rates were comparable between the standard (85%) and prototype (87%) groups (P=0.57).
• Patients using the prototype reported significantly less pain ('no pain/slight pain': 77%) compared to the standard group (63%) (P<0.001).
• The prototype successfully facilitated colonoscopy in two patients with previous splenic flexure negotiation difficulties.

Conclusions:

• The Olympus XCF-Q160AW prototype colonoscope with passive bending offers reduced patient pain.
• This improved patient comfort was achieved without compromising essential colonoscope functions for colonic intubation.