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India ink tattooing in the esophagus
R T Shaffer1, J M Francis, J G Carrougher
1Department of Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-6200, USA.
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
|April 16, 1998
Summary
India ink tattooing in the esophagus is a safe and persistent method for tracking lesions. This technique allows for accurate long-term endoscopic follow-up of the squamocolumnar junction in Barrett's esophagus patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Endoscopic procedures
- Barrett's esophagus research
Background:
- Esophageal landmark measurement during endoscopy is challenging due to anatomical variability.
- Accurate tracking of the squamocolumnar junction is crucial for managing Barrett's esophagus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and persistence of India ink tattooing for marking esophageal landmarks.
- To assess the feasibility of India ink tattoos for longitudinal endoscopic follow-up.
Main Methods:
- India ink tattoos were placed at the proximal squamocolumnar junction in 19 Barrett's esophagus patients.
- Patients underwent endoscopic examinations at multiple time points up to 36 months post-tattooing.
Main Results:
- Excellent tattoo persistence (94.7%) was observed at 3 months, with 100% persistence at 36 months in remaining patients.
- No complications such as chest pain, bleeding, or perforation were associated with the tattooing procedure.
- Follow-up endoscopies revealed no ulcers, inflammation, or mucosal breaks related to the tattoos.
Conclusions:
- India ink tattooing is a safe and effective endoscopic marking technique.
- The persistence of India ink tattoos supports their use for long-term monitoring of esophageal lesions.
- This method offers a reliable solution for overcoming challenges in endoscopic landmark measurement.