Endoscopic tattoo: the importance and need for standardised guidelines and protocol

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Preoperative endoscopic tattooing is increasingly vital for guiding minimally invasive colorectal surgery.
• Current tattooing techniques are inconsistent and operator-dependent, lacking evidence-based guidelines.
• Existing methods present challenges such as poor visualization, complications, and inaccurate documentation, potentially leading to repeat procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize the existing evidence on endoscopic tattooing for colorectal lesions.
• To provide evidence-based guidance for endoscopists to improve clinical practice and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on preoperative endoscopic tattooing for colorectal lesions.
• Collating and analyzing data on current practices, associated challenges, and reported outcomes.

Main Results:

• Significant variability exists in current endoscopic tattooing practices.
• Common issues include intraoperative visualization difficulties, tattooing-related complications, and documentation inaccuracies.
• These challenges can result in the need for intraoperative endoscopy, extended operative times, and reoperation due to incomplete resection.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for evidence-based guidelines for endoscopic tattooing in colorectal surgery.
• Standardized protocols can enhance visualization, minimize complications, and improve the accuracy of lesion resection.
• Implementing best practices will optimize patient care and surgical outcomes in minimally invasive procedures.