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Fibreoptic colonoscopy. Indications, results and complications
The Medical Journal of Australia
|June 30, 1979
Summary
Fibreoptic colonoscopy, a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating colonic polyps, demonstrated a low complication rate in its initial five years. Continued experience and improved instruments promise further safety enhancements in this essential gastrointestinal procedure.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Endoscopy
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Introduction of fibreoptic colonoscopy at Sydney Hospital in June 1973.
- Initial five-year experience with the procedure is reported.
- Focus on the diagnostic and therapeutic applications in colonic polyp management.
Observation:
- Six hundred and twenty-six colonoscopies performed on 568 patients.
- 318 colonic polyps removed from 184 patients.
- Detailed recording of polyp distribution, size, and histology.
Findings:
- Eight complications occurred in 628 examinations (1.6%).
- Six colonic perforations (1.2%) with one fatality.
- Two significant haemorrhages (0.4%) were noted.
Implications:
- The complication rate is considered acceptably low given the benefits.
- Advancements in colonoscope technology (e.g., Olympus MB3) facilitate examinations.
- Increasing endoscopist experience may further reduce complication incidence.