Catheter-free method is sufficient for preparation for transnasal endoscopy: randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Transnasal endoscopy (TNE) is a valuable diagnostic tool but can be uncomfortable due to complex preprocessing and catheterization.
• Existing methods for TNE preparation involve catheter insertion, which can cause patient discomfort and procedural challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel catheter-free preparation method for transnasal endoscopy.
• To compare the success rate, acceptability, and tolerability of the catheter-free method against the traditional catheter-insertion technique.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized controlled trial involving 93 TNE-naïve patients.
• Patients were allocated 1:1 to either a catheter-free or catheter-insertion group.
• The catheter-free group proceeded to TNE, with conversion to catheter-insertion if unsuccessful; outcomes were compared.

Main Results:

• The catheter-free method achieved an 88% success rate, comparable to the 88% success rate of the catheter-insertion method (P>0.05).
• Failure in the catheter-free group was primarily due to nasal cavity narrowing (10%) or rhinalgia (2%).
• No significant differences were observed in vital signs, patient acceptability, or tolerability between the two methods.

Conclusions:

• The catheter-free preparation method is a viable and sufficient alternative for transnasal endoscopy.
• Successful TNE outcomes are more strongly correlated with individual nasal cavity anatomy than with the chosen preparation method.