CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE USE OF MAGNETIC ENDOSCOPE IMAGING FOR COLONOSCOPY

Background:  A new endoscopic system using low-density alternating magnetic fields to visualize loop formation during insertion has been developed and has recently been made available. The present study was designed to assess the usefulness of this new endoscopic system, which is known as magnetic endoscope imaging (MEI), compared with the use of a variable stiffness colonoscope without MEI in the performance of routine colonoscopy. Methods:  Ten less-experienced and 11 experienced colonoscopists performed colonoscopy either with or without the assistance of MEI. After each procedure, the colonoscopist assessed the usefulness of MEI, and the patient also assessed the degree of pain experienced while undergoing the procedure with a pain scale. Success rates in reaching the cecum, insertion time, and the rate of manual abdominal counter-pressure were recorded by endoscopic assistants. Results:  There were no significant differences in the time and cecal insertion rate taken to complete insertion between colonoscopy with and without MEI. However, the level of pain experienced during insertion from the anus to the cecum was significantly lower with MEI than without it when less-experienced colonoscopists performed the colonoscopy. The rates of manual abdominal counter-pressure used during colonoscopy were higher in groups where MEI was used. Moreover, manual abdominal counter-pressure was quite easily undertaken with the assistance of MEI. Conclusion:  In summary, MEI is useful for decreasing the level of patient pain in the less-experienced colonoscopist group.