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Colonic tattooing with India ink: benefits, risks, and alternatives
R Nizam1, N Siddiqi, S K Landas
1Division of Gastroenterology, S.U.N.Y. Health Science Center, Syracuse, USA.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Colonic tattooing with India ink is a safe and effective method for marking tumors before surgery. While techniques vary, the risk of complications is low, making it a valuable tool for colonic lesion study.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Colonic tattooing is utilized for marking lesions during endoscopic procedures.
- India ink is a commonly used agent for colonic tattooing.
- Standardization of techniques and potential biases in reporting are areas of concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the literature on colonic tattooing using India ink.
- To analyze key aspects including preparation, tattooing process, localization success, and complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of English publications from 1966-1995 for India ink and colonic tattooing.
- Review of nine major studies focusing on preparation, technique, volume, sterilization, and complications.
- Analysis of 447 reported cases of colonic tattooing with India ink.
Main Results:
- India ink was used for preoperative marking of tumor sites in 447 cases.
- Variability noted in ink sterilization (57% unsterilized, 42% autoclaved, 1% gas sterilized) and colonic preparation.
- Complications were reported in 5 instances, with a clinical complication risk of 0.22%.
Conclusions:
- Colonic tattooing with India ink demonstrates a low risk of clinical complications (0.22%).
- The method is considered safe, accurate, and cost-effective for preoperative marking and prospective studies.
- Variability in techniques and potential reporting bias necessitate cautious interpretation of quantitative findings.