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Simultaneous sampling of the endocervix and ectocervix using the profile brush
J C Longfield1, R N Grimshaw, J M Monaghan
1Department of Gynaecological Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, England.
Acta Cytologica
|July 1, 1993
Summary
A new Profile brush matched traditional methods for collecting cervical cells. This easy-to-use brush offers a potential alternative for cervical sampling, ensuring good smear quality.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Cervical Cytology
- Medical Device Evaluation
Background:
- Cervical cancer screening relies on effective collection of endocervical cells.
- Traditional methods involve an Ayre spatula and cytobrush combination.
- Evaluating new devices for improved or equivalent sample collection is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the endocervical cell pickup efficacy of a novel modified nylon brush (Profile brush) against the standard Ayre spatula and cytobrush combination.
- To assess the quality of cervical smears obtained by both sampling methods.
Main Methods:
- A controlled trial was conducted comparing the Profile brush with the Ayre spatula and cytobrush.
- Endocervical cell pickup rates were measured for each device.
- Smear quality, including incidence of scanty or unsatisfactory samples, was evaluated.
Main Results:
- The Profile brush demonstrated comparable endocervical cell pickup rates to the Ayre spatula and cytobrush combination (82.7% vs. 82.0%).
- No significant differences were observed in smear quality or the rate of scanty/unsatisfactory smears between the two methods.
- The Profile brush was reported as easy to use by clinicians.
Conclusions:
- The modified nylon Profile brush is a viable alternative to the traditional Ayre spatula and cytobrush for cervical sampling.
- The Profile brush provides equivalent cell yield and smear quality, simplifying the sampling procedure.