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CathCam guide wire-directed colonoscopy: first pilot study in patients with a previous incomplete colonoscopy
A Fritscher-Ravens1, S Fox, C P Swain
1Homerton University Hospital, London, UK. fri.rav@btopenworld.com
Endoscopy
|March 11, 2006
Summary
A new flexible colonoscope, CathCam, successfully enabled cecal intubation in over 90% of patients who previously failed conventional colonoscopy. This guide wire-assisted system offers a less painful alternative for difficult colon examinations.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Devices
- Endoscopy
Background:
- Conventional colonoscopy has limitations, failing in 5-20% of cases and causing patient discomfort.
- The CathCam, a thin, flexible, guide wire-directed colonoscope, was developed to address these challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the CathCam system in patients with a history of failed colonoscopy.
- To assess the caecal intubation rate, procedure time, and patient discomfort associated with the CathCam.
Main Methods:
- A prospective pilot study involving 14 patients with prior colonoscopy failure.
- A modified approach using a guide wire with the CathCam, or in combination with a conventional colonoscope, was employed.
- Caecal intubation rate, insertion times, and patient discomfort were recorded under low-dose sedation.
Main Results:
- The caecum was reached in 12 out of 13 patients (over 90% success rate).
- Mean caecal intubation time was 24 minutes; only two patients reported discomfort.
- No complications occurred, and 9 patients had new, important findings.
Conclusions:
- A combined guide wire and CathCam approach is highly successful in patients with previous colonoscopy failure.
- The CathCam system shows potential as a standard diagnostic colonoscope for difficult cases.
- Further refinements could establish the CathCam as a single unit or guide wire-assisted tool for routine use.
