Endoscopic lithotripsy of gastric bezoars using a laser-ignited mini-explosive device

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic Surgery
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Gastric bezoars are indigestible masses that can cause gastrointestinal obstruction.
• Traditional treatments for gastric bezoars can be invasive or have limited efficacy.
• Endoscopic fragmentation offers a less invasive approach to bezoar management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel endoscopic technique for gastric bezoar fragmentation.
• To report clinical experiences with a laser-ignited mini-explosive device for bezoar treatment.
• To explore the relationship between gastric bezoars and ulcers.

Main Methods:

• In vitro and in vivo studies were conducted to assess the device's performance.
• A clinical trial involved 31 patients with gastric bezoars treated endoscopically.
• The laser-ignited mini-explosive device was used for fragmentation of bezoars.

Main Results:

• The endoscopic fragmentation technique demonstrated successful in vitro and in vivo efficacy.
• All 31 patients treated clinically achieved complete resolution of gastric bezoars.
• No complications were reported in any of the treated patients.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic fragmentation of gastric bezoars using a laser-ignited mini-explosive device is a safe and highly effective treatment.
• This technique provides a viable alternative for managing gastric bezoars.
• Further investigation into the association between bezoars and ulcers may refine treatment strategies.