Ultrathin endoscope equipped with ultrasonic miniprobe for upper GI US in a porcine model

Abstract

BackgroundUltrathin esophagogastroduodenoscopy (UT-EGD) is an ideal tool for unsedated upper gastrointestinal examination and pediatric gastroenterology but is rarely competent for endoscopic ultrasonography mini probe (EUS-MP). We developed a UT-EGD ultrasonography method(UT-EUS) and verified its clinical application value through animal experiments. MethodsFive Bama miniature pigs were selected. Using an acoustic medium, duodenum, stomach, and esophagus ultrasonography was performed respectively with conventional 20-MHz Endoscopic ultrasound miniprobe(EUS-MP-20), 20-MHz UT-EUS,(UT-EUS-20) and 30-MHz UT-EUS(UT-EUS-30). Record the time to acquire 5 consecutive stable ultrasound images, the number of identifiable wall layers, the quality, and the penetration depth of the images. ResultsThere was no significant difference in the time required to obtain images between EUS-MP-20 and UT-EUS-20 at each site (P > 0.05). UT-EUS-30 resolved the wall to more levels than UT-EUS-20 (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between EUS-MP-20 and UT-EUS-20 in imaging quality and penetration depth (P > 0.05). ConclusionThe UT-EUS is easy to use, the obtained image quality is satisfactory, and it has potential clinical application value.