Clinical application of an ultra-thin pancreatoscope using a sequential video converter

The main pancreatic duct was studied endoscopically by inserting an ultra-thin pancreatoscope into the normal papilla of Vater. Recently, we developed a new pancreatoscope system and improved the image, the durability, and the ease of use. A special video converter was connected to the head of the pancreatoscope. The sequential electronic endoscope images were observed on a TV monitor. We performed examinations with this new system in 52 cases (8 with pancreatic cancer, 19 with chronic pancreatitis and 25 normal cases). We studied the brightness, color and quality of the images on 35-mm film and on videotape. As a result, it has become clear that the images obtained with this system are much better than those obtained by the conventional method. Although further improvement in the ability to angulate the endoscope is necessary, this new pancreatoscope system should help diagnose diseases of the pancreas.