Better view by detachable string magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy for esophageal observation: a...

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Imaging
• Endoscopic Technology

Background:

• Magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy (MCE) is used for gastric lesion screening.
• Esophageal visualization with MCE is less understood, despite string-assisted capsule endoscopy (CE) improvements.
• Existing string methods for CE are complex and non-detachable within the esophagus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the esophageal observation performance of MCE with and without a novel detachable string.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of detachable string MCE for esophageal screening.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 238 participants comparing detachable string MCE versus MCE alone.
• A detachable string attached via a suction cap was used in one group.
• Assessment included visualization efficiency, lesion detection, recording time, safety, and tolerability.

Main Results:

• Detachable string MCE demonstrated significantly more efficient circumferential visualization of the esophagus (upper, middle, lower esophagus, and Z-line) (P < 0.001).
• 31 esophageal lesions were detected with detachable string MCE, compared to 10 with MCE alone (P < 0.001).
• Mean recording time was longer with detachable string MCE (305 seconds) versus MCE alone (48.5 seconds) (P < 0.001); 6.1% experienced string detachment issues.

Conclusions:

• Detachable string MCE offers superior performance for esophageal observation compared to MCE alone.
• This technique enhances lesion detection and visualization efficiency in the esophagus.
• Detachable string MCE presents a viable alternative for future esophageal disease screening.