| Theme |
Painless colonoscopy insertion method -- technique & device |
| Title |
How to use a variable-stiffness colonoscope |
| Author |
Takuto Suzuki |
Department of Endosocpy, Chiba Cancer Center |
| Author |
Yoshiyasu Kitagawa |
Department of Endosocpy, Chiba Cancer Center |
| Author |
Rino Nankinzan |
Department of Endosocpy, Chiba Cancer Center |
| Author |
Asuka Ishigaki |
Department of Gastroenterology, Chiba Cancer Center |
| Author |
Taketo Yamaguchi |
Department of Gastroenterology, Chiba Cancer Center |
| [ Summary ] |
The majority of the currently available colonoscopes have a variable-stiffness function. There are many reports on the effectiveness (improvement of the cecal intubation rate, shortening of the intubation time, and reduction of patient discomfort) of this function in colonoscopy. Additionally, this function has been reported to be effective in cases where insertion of the colonoscope is difficult. We principally set the stiffness function at level 0 at the start of colonoscopy. This is because a softer mode reduces patient discomfort. To prevent re-looping and bending of the colon, a harder level should be selected. In the descending colon and splenic flexure, we often select levels 2-3. After reaching the mid-transverse colon, the setting is changed to level 0. During retrieval, after reaching the cecum, it is advisable to maintain the stiffness function at level 0. In conclusion, appropriate use of the variable-stiffness function enables painless and speedy colonoscopy. |