Does the use of a variable stiffness colonoscope offer advantages during colonoscopy under deep sedation? Results of a randomized trial.

INTRODUCTION

Variable stiffness colonoscope may be useful in performing colonoscopies in nonsedated patients or under endoscopist-controlled sedation. The objective of this study is to evaluate whether this instrument facilitates colonoscopy in patients under deep sedation monitored by an anaesthesiologist.

METHODS

Prospective and randomized study enroling consecutive patients referred for colonoscopy under deep sedation monitored by an anaesthesiologist. In group I, a variable stiffness colonoscope was used, whereas in group II, a standard colonoscope was used. The main variable was the need to change the position of the patient during the endoscopy.

RESULTS

Fifty-six patients were included in group I (variable stiffness colonoscope) and 54 in group II (standard colonoscope). The caecum was reached in 92.9% of patients in group I and in 90.7% of group II (P=0.7). The time required to reach the caecum was significantly less in group I (6.14±3.5 vs. 7.7±3.8; P=0.035). The variable stiffness colonoscope was effective in 66.7% of cases. Changing the position of the patient was necessary in 12.5% of cases in group I compared with 33.3% of cases in group II (P=0.01).

CONCLUSION

The variable stiffness colonoscope avoids the need to change the patient's position and reduces caecal intubation time in patients undergoing colonoscopy under deep sedation controlled by an anaesthesiologist.