Efficacy of spray flushing in the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes

This article comments on the article by Du et al,who conducted a randomized controlled trial aiming at evaluating the effectiveness of a novel spray flushing system in cleaning flexible endoscopes while minimizing damage to the working channels.We share our perspective on the importance of improving endoscope reprocessing methods.The findings highlight the spray flushing system's capacity to improve cleaning efficacy while minimizing damage,suggesting that it might be important in enhancing endoscope reprocessing procedures.

Efficacy of spray flushing in the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes:A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND Commonly used cleaning brushes in the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes often cause damage within the working channels.AIM To develop a spray flushing system to achieving effective cleaning of the working channels while minimizing damage.METHODS This prospective study included 60 used endoscopes and 60 Teflon tubes randomly divided into a control group(n=30)and an experimental group(n=30).The material of Teflon tubes was the same as that of the endoscope working channel.Endoscopes in the control group were manually cleaned using traditional cleaning brushes,while those in the experimental group were cleaned using the newly developed spray flushing system.ATP levels,cleanliness,and microbiological testing of the working channels were measured.Additionally,Teflon tubes in the control group underwent 500 passes with a cleaning brush,while those in the experimental group were subjected to the spray flushing system,and channel damage was evaluated.RESULTS The ATP levels(RLU)in the two groups were 32.5(13-66)and 26(16-40),respectively(P>0.05).Cleanliness scores were 1.5(1-2)and 1(1-2),respectively(P>0.05).Debris was found in 73.3%of the control group,which was significantly higher than 46.7%in the experimental group(P<0.05).Microbiological tests for both groups yielded negative results.Teflon tube damage in the control group was rated at 4(4-5.25),which was significantly higher than in the experimental group 4(3-4)(P<0.01).CONCLUSION The spray flushing system demonstrated superior efficacy in removing debris and resulted in less damage to the endoscope working channels compared with traditional cleaning brushes.

Beyond boundaries:Feasibility of curved linear array echoendoscope in appendiceal neoplasm detection

We recently read with great interest a study by Zhang et al in the World Journal of Gastroenterology.In our practice,we focus specifically on examining appendiceal mucinous neoplasms(AMNs)with endoscopic ultrasound(EUS)using different scopes.AMNs are rare neoplastic lesions characterized by an accumulation of mucin inside a cystic dilatation of the appendix.Clinically,they can present as nonspecific acute appendicitis.AMNs can turn into a life-threatening condition,termed pseudomyxoma peritonei,in which the ruptured appendix causes accumulation of mucin in the abdomen.Therefore,accurate and rapid diagnosis of AMN is essential.EUS is able to confirm and stage AMNs;although,EUS examination was once limited to the rectal and anal regions due to the conven-tional oblique-view scopes.With the emergence of new forward-view linear echoendoscopes and instruments like EUS miniprobes and overtubes,the scope of examination is changing.Herein,we discuss the feasibility of using the curved linear array echoendoscopes to examine cecal and appendiceal orifice lesions.

Importance of risk assessment,endoscopic hemostasis,and recent advancements in the management of acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding(ANVUGIB)is a common medical emergency in clinical practice.While the incidence has significantly reduced,the mortality rates have not undergone a similar reduction in the last few decades,thus presenting a significant challenge.This editorial outlines the key causes and risk factors of ANVUGIB and explores the current standards and recent updates in risk assessment scoring systems for predicting mortality and endoscopic treatments for achieving hemostasis.Since ANUVGIB predominantly affects the elderly population,the impact of comorbidities may be responsible for the poor outcomes.A thorough drug history is important due to the increasing use of antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants in the elderly.Early risk stratification plays a crucial role in deciding the line of management and predicting mortality.Emerging scoring systems such as the ABC(age,blood tests,co-morbidities)score show promise in predicting mortality and guiding clinical decisions.While conventional endoscopic therapies remain cornerstone approaches,novel techniques like hemostatic powders and over-the-scope clips offer promising alternatives,particularly in cases refractory to traditional modalities.By integrating validated scoring systems and leveraging novel therapeutic modalities,clinicians can enhance patient care and mitigate the substantial morbidity and mortality associated with ANVUGIB.

Optical scanning endoscope via a single multimode optical fiber

Optical endoscopy has become an essential diagnostic and therapeutic approach in modern biomedicine for directly observing organs and tissues deep inside the human body,enabling non-invasive,rapid diagnosis and treatment.Optical fiber endoscopy is highly competitive among various endoscopic imaging techniques due to its high flexibility,compact structure,excellent resolution,and resistance to electromagnetic interference.Over the past decade,endoscopes based on a single multimode optical fiber(MMF)have attracted widespread research interest due to their potential to significantly reduce the footprint of optical fiber endoscopes and enhance imaging capabilities.In comparison with other imaging principles of MMF endoscopes,the scanning imaging method based on the wavefront shaping technique is highly developed and provides benefits including excellent imaging contrast,broad applicability to complex imaging scenarios,and good compatibility with various well-established scanning imaging modalities.In this review,various technical routes to achieve light focusing through MMF and procedures to conduct the scanning imaging of MMF endoscopes are introduced.The advancements in imaging performance enhancements,integrations of various imaging modalities with MMF scanning endoscopes,and applications are summarized.Challenges specific to this endoscopic imaging technology are analyzed,and potential remedies and avenues for future developments are discussed.

White-light-induced synthesis of injectable alginate-based composite hydrogels for rapid hemostasis

Dear Editor,Timely and effective hemostasis is of great significance for reducing body damage and mortality of patients [1]. Alginate is generally considered to be an excellent hemostatic polymer-based biomaterial and has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as Generally Recognized as Safe [2]. However, the violent crosslinking reaction and unstable structure at the wound site limit its clinical applications. Hence, we report a biocompatible and injectable composite hydrogel methacrylate alginate (Alg-AEMA)-based Eosin Y/N-phenylglycine (NPG)-initiated composite hydrogel (AEC) composed of photocrosslinkable alginate, viscosity modifiers and novel white light photoinitiator, namely Eosin Y/NPG system, for instant hemorrhage control.

Advancements in endoscopic hemostasis for non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal(GI)bleeding is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.Traditionally,through-the-scope(TTS)clips,thermal therapy,and injection therapies are used to treat GI bleeding.In this review,we provide an overview of novel endoscopic treatments that can be used to achieve hemostasis.Specifically,we discuss the efficacy and applicability of over-thescope clips,hemostatic agents,TTS doppler ultrasound,and endoscopic ultrasound,each of which offer an effective method of reducing rates of GI rebleeding.

Is appendoscope a new option for the treatment of acute appendicitis?

Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency.It is commonly caused by obstruction of the appendiceal lumen due to fecaliths,tumors,or lymphoid hyperplasia.For over a century,appendectomy has been the primary treatment for acute appendicitis.Abraham Groves performed the first open appendectomy in 1883.In 1983,Kurt Semm completed the first laparoscopic appendectomy,heralding a new era in appendectomy.However,appendectomy is associated with certain complications and a rate of negative appendectomies.Studies have suggested controversy over the impact of appendectomy on the development of inflammatory bowel disease and Parkinson’s disease,but an increasing number of studies indicate a possible positive correlation between appendectomy and colorectal cancer,gallstones,and cardiovascular disease.With the recognition that the appendix is not a vestigial organ and the advancement of endoscopic technology,Liu proposed the endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy.It is an effective minimally invasive alternative for treating uncomplicated acute appendicitis.Our team has developed an appendoscope with a disposable digital imaging system operated through the biopsy channel of a colonoscope and successfully applied it in the treatment of appendicitis.This article provides an overview of the progress in endoscopic treatment for acute appendicitis and offers a new perspective on the future direction of appendiceal disease treatment.

Femoral Access with Ultrasound-Guided Puncture and Z-Stitch Hemostasis for Adults with Congenital Heart Diseases Undergoing Electrophysiological Procedures

Aims:Although the application of ultrasound-guided vascular puncture and Z-stitch hemostasis to manage femoral access has been widely utilized,there is limited data on this combined application in adult congenital heart disease(ACHD)patients undergoing electrophysiological(EP)procedures.We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ultrasound-guided puncture and postprocedural Z-stitch hemostasis for ACHD patients under-going EP procedures.Methods and Results:The population of ACHD patients undergoing transfemoral EP pro-cedures at the University of Zurich Heart Center between January 2019 and December 2022 was observed and analyzed.During the study period,femoral access(left/right,arterial/venous)was performed under real-time ultrasound guidance.At the end of the procedure,a single Z-stitch was performed at the puncture site.We eval-uated the incidence of in-hospital complications associated with femoral access puncture in this population.Among 101 patients who had a total of 147 previous ipsilateral vascular punctures(mean 1.5 per person),100 patients underwent successful femoral vascular access for EP procedures.The median age of the patients was 47±15 years and 34(34%)were male.Z-stitches were performed after the procedure in 100 patients with 303 femoral vascular accesses(mean 3 punctures per person).No patient developed vascular puncture relevant inguinal hematoma,pseudo aneurysm,arteriovenousfistula,venous or arterial thrombosis.Conclusion:In ACHD patients undergoing EP procedures,optimal femoral access management can be achieved with ultra-sound-guided puncture and postprocedural Z-stitch hemostasis.

Adverse events associated with the gold probe and the injection gold probe devices used for endoscopic hemostasis:A MAUDE database analysis

BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal(GI)bleeding accounts for over half a million admissions annually and is the most common GI diagnosis requiring hospitalization in the United States.Bipolar electrocoagulation devices are used for the management of gastrointestinal bleeding.There is no data on device-related adverse events for gold probe(GP)and injection gold probe(IGP).AIM To analyze this using the Food and Drug Administration(FDA’s)Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience(MAUDE)database from 2013 to 2023.METHODS We examined post-marketing surveillance data on GP and IGP from the FDA MAUDE database to report devicerelated and patient-related adverse events between 2013-2023.The MAUDE database is a publicly available resource providing over 4 million records relating to medical device safety.Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics V.27.0(IBM Corp.,Armonk,NY,United States).RESULTS Our search elicited 140 reports for GP and 202 reports for IGP,respec-tively,during the study period from January 2013 to August 2023.Malfunctions reportedly occurred in 130 cases for GP,and actual patient injury or event occurred in 10 patients.A total of 149 patients(74%)reported with Injection GP events suffered no significant consequences due to the device failure,but 53 patients(26%)were affected by an event.CONCLUSION GP and IGP are critical in managing gastrointestinal bleeding.This study of the FDA MAUDE database revealed the type,number,and trends of reported device-related adverse events.The endoscopist and support staff must be aware of these device-related events and be equipped to manage them if they occur.

A Novel Sensing Imaging Equipment Under Extremely Dim Light for Blast Furnace Burden Surface:Starlight High-Temperature Industrial Endoscope

Blast furnace(BF)burden surface contains the most abundant,intuitive and credible smelting information and acquiring high-definition and high-brightness optical images of which is essential to realize precise material charging control,optimize gas flow distribution and improve ironmaking efficiency.It has been challengeable to obtain high-quality optical burden surface images under high-temperature,high-dust,and extremelydim(less than 0.001 Lux)environment.Based on a novel endoscopic sensing detection idea,a reverse telephoto structure starlight imaging system with large field of view and large aperture is designed.Combined with a water-air dual cooling intelligent self-maintenance protection device and the imaging system,a starlight high-temperature industrial endoscope is developed to obtain clear optical burden surface images stably under the harsh environment.Based on an endoscope imaging area model,a material flow trajectory model and a gas-dust coupling distribution model,an optimal installation position and posture configuration method for the endoscope is proposed,which maximizes the effective imaging area and ensures large-area,safe and stable imaging of the device in a confined space.Industrial experiments and applications indicate that the proposed method obtains clear and reliable large-area optical burden surface images and reveals new BF conditions,providing key data support for green iron smelting.

Clinical characteristics of acute non-varicose upper gastrointestinal bleeding and the effect of endoscopic hemostasis

BACKGROUND Acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding(ANVUGIB)constitutes a prevalent emergency within Gastroenterology,encompassing 80%-90%of all gastrointestinal hemorrhage incidents.This condition is distinguished by its abrupt onset,swift progression,and notably elevated mortality rate.AIM To gather clinical data from patients with ANVUGIB at our hospital in order to elucidate the clinical characteristics specific to our institution and analyze the therapeutic effectiveness of endoscopic hemostasis.METHODS We retrospectively retrieved the records of 532 patients diagnosed with ANVUGIB by endoscopy at our hospital between March 2021 and March 2023,utilizing our medical record system.Data pertaining to general patient information,etiological factors,disease outcomes,and other relevant variables were meticulously collected and analyzed.RESULTS Among the 532 patients diagnosed with ANVUGIB,the male-to-female ratio was 2.91:1,with a higher prevalence among males.Notably,43.6%of patients presented with black stool as their primary complaint,while 27.4%had hematemesis as their initial symptom.Upon admission,17%of patients exhibited both hematemesis and black stool,while most ANVUGIB patients primarily complained of overt gastrointestinal bleeding.Urgent routine blood examinations at admission revealed that 75.8%of patients had anemia,with 63.4%experiencing moderate to severe anemia,and 1.5%having extremely severe anemia(hemoglobin<30 g/L).With regard to etiology,53.2%of patients experienced bleeding without a definitive trigger,24.2%had a history of using gastric mucosa-irritating medications,24.2%developed bleeding after alcohol consumption,2.8%attributed it to improper diet,1.7%to emotional excitement,and 2.3%to fatigue preceding the bleeding episode.Drug-induced ANVUGIB was more prevalent in the elderly than middle-aged and young individuals,while bleeding due to alcohol consumption showed the opposite trend.Additionally,diet-related bleeding was more common among the young age group compared to the middle-aged group.Gastrointestinal endoscopy identified peptic ulcers as the most frequent cause of ANVUGIB(73.3%),followed by gastrointestinal malignancies(10.9%),acute gastric mucous lesions(9.8%),and androgenic upper gastrointestinal bleeding(1.5%)among inpatients with ANVUGIB.Of the 532 patients with gastrointestinal bleeding,68 underwent endoscopic hemostasis,resulting in an endoscopic treatment rate of 12.8%,with a high immediate hemostasis success rate of 94.1%.

Endoscopic hemostasis using self-expandable metal stent combinedwith PuraStat® for patient with high risk of post-endoscopicsphincterotomy bleeding (with video)

To the Editor:Endoscopic sphincterotomy(EST)is an established technique for removal of bile duct stones and self-expandable metal stent(SEMS)deployment.However,bleeding can be considered an adverse event after EST,particularly for patients with high risk of bleeding such as those on hemodialysis.Among the various techniques reported for obtaining endoscopic hemostasis[1-3].

Techniques for otosclerosis surgery: Ear surgery from the microscope to the endoscope - A literature review

Stapes surgery is the gold standard for managing otosclerosis.It has become increasingly appreciated to perform endoscopic ear surgery worldwide as the field of endoscopy expands.In basic terms,a stapes surgery intends to restore ossicular mobility and therefore improve sound energy transduction into the inner ear,thereby improving communication and sound amplification and bringing hearing levels back to acceptable levels.The aim of the study is to analyze surgical techniques comparing microscopic and endoscopic approaches for stapes surgery.The perspectives of Surgical Pioneers in Early Stapes Surgery and the contemporary development of surgical technology will be explored as well.Specifically,this study compiles well-documented,reliable information concerning the surgical outcomes for the endoscopic approach to stapes surgery and the results of recent studies.

Guide Function of Number of Gastrointestinal Endoscope Cases for Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection Training of Early Gastric Cancer:A Teaching Article

This study aimed to determine the guide function of the number of gastrointestinal endoscope cases for the endoscopic submucosal dissection training of early gastric cancer.Three physicians in our center who began to learn ESD in July 2021 are selected and designate them as operators 1⁃3.The number of gastrointestinal endoscope cases performed by operators 1⁃3 before June 2021 was extracted,and the dissection speed among different operators in the ESD training stage was compared.The number of gastrointestinal endoscope cases performed by operator 1 was 3677,that by operator 2 was 4897 and that by operator 3 was 9249.The average dissection speed of operator 1 was 0.132 cm^(2)/min,operator 2 was 0.145 cm^(2)/min,and operator 3 was 0.174 cm^(2)/min.The dissection speed was ranked as operator 1<operator 2<operator 3,and one case of R0 resection was not achieved in both operator 1 and operator 2.Operator 3 achieved R0 resection in all 10 patients.With the increasing of number of gastrointestinal endoscope cases,the dissection speed and the stability of operation of endoscopists in the ESD training will increase.

Animal experimental studies using small intestine endoscope

AIM To assess the feasibility and safety of a novel enteroscope,negative-pressure suction endoscope in examining the small intestine of a porcine model.METHODS In vitro experiments in small intestinal loops from 20pigs and in vivo experiments in 20 living pigs were conducted.RESULTS In in vitro experiments,a negative pressure of>0.06MPa was necessary for optimal visualization of the intestine,and this pressure did not cause gross or histological damage to the mucosa.For satisfactory examination of the small intestine in vivo,higher negative pressure(>1.00 MPa)was required.Despite this higher pressure,the small intestine did not show any gross or microscopic damage in the suctioned areas.The average time of examination in the living animals was 60±7.67 min.The animals did not experience any apparent ill effects from the procedure.CONCLUSION Small intestine endoscope was safely performed within a reasonable time period and enabled complete visualization of the intestine in most cases.

A 2.4GHz Low Power ASK Transmitter for Wireless Capsule Endoscope Applications

A 2.4GHz ASK transmitter suitable for a low power wireless capsule endoscope system is presented. A mixer-based frequency up-conversion transmitter architecture is employed to achieve a high data rate. A pseudodifferential stacked class-A power amplifier using the current reuse technique is proposed to save power. The transmitter mainly includes two parts： a 20MHz ASK modulator based on a constant amplitude phase lock loop （PLL） and a direct up-conversion RF circuit. This design, implemented in a TSMC 0.25μm CMOS process, achieves a - 23. 217dBm output power with a data rate of 1Mbps and dissipates 3.17mA of current with a single 2.5V power supply.

Predictors of re-bleeding after endoscopic hemostasis for delayed post-endoscopic sphincterotomy bleeding

AIM: To predict the re-bleeding after endoscopic hemostasis for delayed post-endoscopic sphincterotomy(ES) bleeding.METHODS: Over a 15-year period, data from 161 patients with delayed post-ES bleeding were retrospectively collected from a single medical center. To identify risk factors for re-bleeding after initial successful endoscopic hemostasis, parameters before, during and after the procedure of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography were analyzed. These included age, gender, blood biochemistry, comorbidities, endoscopic diagnosis, presence of periampullary diverticulum, occurrence of immediate postES bleeding, use of needle knife precut sphincterotomy, severity of delayed bleeding, endoscopic features on delayed bleeding, and type of endoscopic therapy.RESULTS: A total of 35 patients(21.7%) had rebleeding after initial successful endoscopic hemostasis for delayed post-ES bleeding. Univariate analysis revealed that malignant biliary stricture, serum bilirubin level of greater than 10 mg/d L, initial bleeding severity, and bleeding diathesis were significant predictors of rebleeding. By multivariate analysis, serum bilirubin level of greater than 10 mg/d L and initial bleeding severity remained significant predictors. Re-bleeding was controlled by endoscopic therapy in a single(n = 23) or multiple(range, 2-7; n = 6) sessions in 29 of the 35 patients(82.9%). Four patients required transarterial embolization and one went for surgery. These five patients had severe bleeding when delayed post-ES bleeding occurred. One patient with decompensated liver cirrhosis died from re-bleeding.CONCLUSION: Re-bleeding occurs in approximately one-fifth of patients after initial successful endoscopic hemostasis for delayed post-ES bleeding. Severity of initial bleeding and serum bilirubin level of greater than 10 mg/d L are predictors of re-bleeding.

Endoscopic hemostasis techniques for upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage: A review

Upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (UGIH) is an urgent disease that is often encountered in daily medical practice. Endoscopic hemostasis is currently indispensable for the treatment of UGIH. Initially, when UGIH is suspected, a cause of UGIH is presumed from the medical interview and physical findings. After ample primary treatment, urgent endoscopy is performed. Many methods of endoscopic hemostasis are in wide use, including hemoclip, injection and thermo-coagulation methods. Although UGIH develops from a wide variety of diseases, such as esophageal varices and gastric and duodenal ulcer, hemostasis is almost always possible. Identification of the causative diseases, primary treatment and characteristic features of endoscopic hemostasis are needed to allow appropriate treatment.

Platelets in hemostasis and thrombosis:Novel mechanisms of fibrinogen-independent platelet aggregation and fibronectin-mediated protein wave of hemostasis

Platelets are small anucleate cells generated from megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. Although platelet genera- tion, maturation, and clearance are still not fully understood, significant progress has been made in the last 1-2 dec- ades. In blood circulation, platelets can quickly adhere and aggregate at sites of vascular injury, forming the platelet plug （i.e. the first wave of hemostasis）. Activated platelets can also provide negatively charged phosphatidylserine- rich membrane surface that enhances cell-based thrombin generation, which facilitates blood coagulation （i.e. the second wave of hemostasis）. Platelets therefore play central roles in hemostasis. However, the same process of hemostasis may also cause thrombosis and vessel occlusion, which are the most common mechanisms leading to heart attack and stroke following ruptured atherosclerotic lesions. In this review, we will introduce the classical mechanisms and newly discovered pathways of platelets in hemostasis and thrombosis, including fibrinogen-inde- pendent platelet aggregation and thrombosis, and the plasma fibronectin-mediated ＂protein wave＂ of hemostasis that precedes the classical first wave of hemostasis. Furthermore, we briefly discuss the roles of platelets in inflam- marion and atherosclerosis and the potential strategies to control atherothrombosis.