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Visualizing endoscopy-generated aerosols with laser light scattering (with videos).
Monica Passi1, Valentyn Stadnytskyi2, Philip Anfinrud2
1Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
|August 6, 2022
Summary
Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy generates aerosolized particles, confirming it as an aerosol-generating procedure (AGP). This study objectively demonstrates aerosol generation during GI endoscopy, informing infection control measures.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Disease Transmission
- Medical Procedures
Background:
- Upper GI endoscopy is suspected to be an aerosol-generating procedure (AGP).
- Evidence supports aerosol transmission of SARS-CoV-2.
- Limited data confirms aerosol generation during GI endoscopy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To objectively demonstrate that GI endoscopy is an AGP.
- To illustrate the primary mechanism of droplet aerosolization during endoscopy.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two experimental models simulating the upper GI tract.
- Assessed aerosolized droplets during endoscope insertion/withdrawal and tool passage using laser light scattering.
Main Results:
- Endoscope insertion and withdrawal generated significant aerosolized particles.
- Passage of endoscopic tools produced fewer aerosolized particles.
- Results were reproducible and consistent across trials.
Conclusions:
- Upper GI endoscopy is objectively demonstrated as an AGP.
- Findings have implications for airborne pathogen transmission beyond SARS-CoV-2.
- Informs personal protective equipment (PPE) use and risk mitigation strategies for GI endoscopy.
