Feasibility and Early Experience with Pediatric Open Access Endoscopy: A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic Procedures
• Healthcare Delivery Models

Background:

• Open access endoscopy (OAE) is standard in adult gastroenterology but novel in pediatrics.
• This study evaluates the feasibility and safety of a new pediatric OAE program.
• OAE enables outpatient endoscopic procedures without a pre-procedure specialist consultation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of a newly implemented pediatric open access endoscopy (OAE) program.
• To evaluate patient and parent perceptions of the OAE process.
• To identify potential challenges and areas for improvement in pediatric OAE.

Main Methods:

• A prospective database identified 54 pediatric patients (under 18) undergoing OAE.
• Procedures included esophagogastroduodenoscopies (EGDs), colonoscopies, and ERCPs.
• Post-procedure follow-up calls assessed adverse events and patient/parent feedback.

Main Results:

• 54 OAE procedures were successfully completed with no reported adverse events.
• Patient feedback highlighted benefits in lifestyle, socioeconomic, and psychological aspects.
• Challenges were identified through follow-up, leading to practice refinements.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric OAE is feasible and appears safe in this pilot cohort.
• OAE offers advantages such as reduced missed school days and decreased medical anxiety for children.
• Further research with larger studies is needed to confirm safety, effectiveness, and generalizability.