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At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Efficiency and productivity of a sheathed fiberoptic sigmoidoscope compared with a conventional sigmoidoscope.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to measure and compare time and productivity between a new sheathed flexible sigmoidoscope and a traditional fiberoptic flexible sigmoidoscope relative to labor and cost analysis. METHODS: Two flexible sigmoidoscopes, the Vision Sciences sigmoidoscope using a protective sheath covering requiring removal and replacement between procedures and a conventional flexible sigmoidoscope requiring meticulous cleaning using a washer and high-level disinfection, were compared. Sigmoidoscope preparation was defined as the average time between the procedures (reprocessing, start to finish) and was measured by an independent nonmedical timekeeper JG). The parameter recorded was scope reprocessing time. RESULTS: Ten procedures were performed using the sheathed flexible sigmoidoscope system compared with nine using a conventional sigmoidoscope. Scope performance and endoscopic visualization for both systems were comparable. The average reprocessing time was 46.8 minutes for the conventional sigmoidoscope vs. 4.9 minutes for the sheathed sigmoidoscope (P < 0.0001). The average time saved was 9.5 times greater with the sheathed flexible sigmoidoscope system than with the conventional sigmoidoscope. CONCLUSION: The almost tenfold difference in the time saved using the sheathed flexible sigmoidoscope system represents increased productivity and potentially decreased overall labor cost. By reducing endoscope turnover time, this new sheathed system can reduce or even eliminate the need for backup endoscopes and endoscope washers and potentially allow better use of nursing staff.

Endoscopes↗

Sigmoidoscopic examinations with rigid and flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopes in the surgeon's office: a comparative prospective study of effectiveness in 1,012 cases.

The results obtained from 1,012 examinations in an on-going, cooperative study indicate that the overall yield provided by use of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope is 3.2 times greater than that of examinations with the rigid sigmoidoscope. More than twice (2.4 times) the number of polyps and more than three times the number of cancers were detected with the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope. Experienced endoscopists can perform an examination with the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope expeditiously in the office with minimal patient preparation, a high level of patient and physician acceptance, and relative safety when the usual mandatory colonoscopic precautions and guidelines are obeyed. The extraordinary advantages demonstrated by this study warrant wide clinical application of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope. We strongly recommend provision be made for appropriate training of physicians in the use of the instrument.

Colon, Sigmoid↗

The advantages of the 30-cm flexible sigmoidoscope over the 60-cm flexible sigmoidoscope.

To determine the optimal length of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope we performed a randomized, blinded comparison study of the standard 60-cm instrument with a prototype 30-cm instrument with identical design features. Ninety-six male patients referred for symptom evaluation underwent examination with both instruments in random order by different examiners; positive examinations were followed by colonoscopy or surgery. Performance of the 30-cm sigmoidoscope compared with the 60-cm instrument revealed that the former was significantly more likely to yield a complete examination (74 vs. 32 examinations, p less than 0.002), took less time to perform (6.4 vs. 9.8 min, p less than 0.0001), and was more acceptable to patients and physicians. The 30-cm instrument was not significantly less effective than the 60-cm instrument in detecting polyps (21 vs. 25), adenocarcinoma (six for each), and inflammatory lesions. For these reasons, we conclude that the 30-cm flexible sigmoidoscope has a role in the evaluation of colorectal complaints.

Adult↗

The flexible sigmoidoscope as a potential vector of infectious disease, including suggestions for decontamination of the flexible sigmoidoscope.

The flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope has gained widespread acceptance as a diagnostic tool in the detection and diagnosis of colorectal disease. Since its introduction nearly a decade ago, studies have thus far indicated that in the hands of experienced physicians, flexible sigmoidoscopy is a safe procedure affording greater patient comfort, greater depth of insertion, and a higher yield of neoplastic lesions than rigid sigmoidoscopy, with surprisingly few associated risks. Although reported infrequently, infection is an acknowledged risk of flexible sigmoidoscopy and other endoscopic procedures. The most efficient means of preventing endoscopy-associated infection is uncompromising aseptic practice. Clinical and experimental data obtained from studies designed to investigate endoscopic transmission of infectious organisms and from our own and others' experiences are reviewed. Guidelines for achieving high-level disinfection of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope are included.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome↗

Comparison of the rigid sigmoidoscope and the flexible sigmoidoscope in conjunction with colon x-ray for detection of lesions of the colon and rectum.

A series of 1007 patients was randomly divided into two groups, one a group of 499 patients who underwent rigid sigmoidoscopy and the other a group of 508 patients who had flexible sigmoidoscopy. Contrast barium enema studies were subsequently performed in all patients. Eighteen per cent of the patients had a neoplasm. We concluded that, given the amount of colon surveyed by rigid and flexible sigmoidoscopy in conjunction with contrast barium enema, there was no difference in the rate of detection between the two endoscopic techniques.

Barium Sulfate↗

Guidelines for use of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope in the management of the surgical patient.

Based on data from many clinical studies and programs, guidelines are presented for application of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope in the management of the surgical patient. The flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope has proved to be an instrument of extraordinary capability in detecting colorectal neoplasms with yields being two or three times greater than those of the rigid sigmoidoscope in the symptom-resolution, polyp and cancer surveillance patient categories. In addition, the practical advantages of the narrow diameter, flexibility, and length of the fiberoptic sigmoidoscope are readily appreciated when the surgeon finds that he can satisfactorily examine patients with rectal or sigmoid strictures, marked angulations, or contracted lumens in whom a rigid scope would be unsuitable. Data from the authors' comparative study of more than 3000 patients have permitted the development of not only guidelines for the application of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope but an appreciation of the modified role of the rigid sigmoidoscope and the proper relationship between the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope and the flexible fiberoptic colonoscope. A most important consideration is based on data regarding the site distribution of 400 benign premalignant neoplasms detected in the comparative study. The even distribution of these lesions throughout the terminal 50 cm of colorectum underscores the need to examine as much of the colorectum as possible.

Colonic Diseases↗

Effect of instrument diameter on the depth of penetration of fiberoptic sigmoidoscopes.

Newer fiberoptic sigmoidoscopes tend to have smaller diameter insertion shafts than older models. The extent to which this diameter affects how deeply an instrument can be inserted into the colon and the frequency with which sigmoidoscopes of different diameters could reach more proximal areas of the colon was evaluated. Instrument diameter did not influence the length of the sigmoidoscope shaft that could be introduced into the patient. However, when fully inserted to 60 cm, the 12-mm diameter sigmoidoscopes viewed significantly less of the sigmoid and descending colon than did the 16-mm diameter sigmoidoscopes. This lesser degree of anatomic depth of penetration has direct implications for the diagnostic capabilities of smaller diameter instruments.

Fiber Optic Technology↗

Correlations between defined sigmoidoscopic appearances and other measures of disease activity in ulcerative colitis.

It has been widely assumed that the activity of ulcerative colitis is related to differences in mucosal appearances seen at sigmoidoscopic examination. We have tested this assumption by making comparisons of the symptoms and clinical signs associated with three reproducible appearances of the rectal mucosa. By cross-tabulating 222 observations of each of 10 symptoms and signs with these sigmoidoscopic appearances it has been shown that the subdivision of hemorrhagic mucosae into those which bleed spontaneously and those which bleed only on light touching or scraping is meaningful clinically. Sigmoidoscopic appearances seemed to correlate better with clinical disease activity than histological assessment, even when quantitative, of mucosal biopsies. On the basis of this study, four variables have been suggested which, in addition to the sigmoidoscopic appearances, could form the basis of regular clinical assessment or scoring.

Biopsy↗

Correction of deficiencies in flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope cleaning and disinfection technique in family practice and internal medicine offices.

To assess whether deficiencies exist in the processing of contaminated flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopes in family practice and internal medicine offices and whether training of office personnel results in a correction of identified deficiencies, we conducted a prospective review of sigmoidoscope processing in family practice and internal medicine offices before and after a training course. Participants were questioned on their current endoscope processing for 17 standards before and 2 months after receiving training. The 19 offices had between 4 and 11 deficiencies per office before training, with an average of 6.8 deficiencies per office. After training, deficiencies ranged from 0 to 8, with an average of 0.9 deficiencies per office (P < or = .001; Student t test). Personnel responsible for processing flexible sigmoidoscopes in family practice and internal medicine offices are insufficiently trained for this function. Endoscopes are not being processed according to current standards. After a 2-hour training period, these persons maintain their equipment close to or according to standards.

Disinfection↗

Use of a colonoscope instead of a sigmoidoscope to screen asymptomatic adults for colorectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Colonoscopic screening can detect neoplasms in asymptomatic adults, many of which would not be detected by sigmoidoscopy. However, because of cost and resource factors, many adults still undergo flexible sigmoidoscopy for colorectal cancer screening. In asymptomatic adults over age 50 undergoing unsedated flexible sigmoidoscopy screening, use of a colonoscope instead of a sigmoidoscope was studied to determine the feasibility, safety, tolerability, and yield. METHODS: Over an 18-month period, asymptomatic adults referred for colorectal cancer screening by sigmoidoscopy were enrolled. Two experienced nurses attempted to reach the cecum by using a pediatric colonoscope but stopped if significant discomfort was experienced, if the preparation was suboptimal, or if polyps were found. RESULTS: A total of 672 adults (652 men, 20 women) underwent screening. The colonoscope was advanced beyond the level attainable with a sigmoidoscope (70-cm mark) in 240 cases. The cecum was reached in 110 (16.4%) of these patients, with a mean pain intensity for patients of 2.6 (scale 1-10) and a mean time for completion of the procedure of 17 minutes. Colonoscopy to the cecum was not feasible because of patient discomfort in 280 patients (41.7%), poor preparation in 179 (26.7%), left-sided polyps or cancer in 69, and/or severe diverticulosis and tortuosity in 34 cases. Twenty patients had polyps proximal to the 70-cm mark (65% adenomas, no cancer). There was no complication. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a colonoscope instead of a sigmoidoscope by nurses performing unsedated screening sigmoidoscopy is feasible, safe, and well-tolerated, and may improve the yield for screening by at least 16.4% in patients who would otherwise have had only the left colon examined.

Aged↗

[Diagnostic value of sigmoidoscopic examination in diseases of the colon (author's transl)].

215 Cases out of 400 colosopic and 300 sigmoidoscopic examinations showed polypi and carcinomas. The polypi of 170 patients were located at a rate of 63,5% in the rectum and sigma area and of 36,5% in the proximal colon sections. Out of 45 carcinomas 80% could be localized in the rectum and sigma area and 20% in the further parts of the colon. Patients, if only sigmoidoscopically examined, showed polypi at a rate of 4,7% and carcinomas of 1,3%. For patients coloscopically examined polypi were found at a rate of 23,5% and carcinomas of 8% in the rectum and sigma area. 66% of all polypous changes and 82% of carcinomas were found with patients beyond 60 years of age. In 17 cases colitis ulcerosa, in 3 cases Morbus Crohn and in 3 cases of lipom could be established. The relatively high rate of pathological abnormities found in the upper colon section proves the diagnostic value of a total coloscopic examination. The recto-sigmoidoscopic examination therefore should be restricted to provisionary tests only.

Adult↗

A study of optimal length of flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopes for initial endoscopic training.

Eighteen trainees with no prior fiberoptic endoscopic experience performed a total of 305 fiberoptic sigmoidoscopies using a colonoscope. Basic training, consisting of reading materials, lecture instructions, practice on a colon model, and observation of procedures, was completed prior to beginning patient examinations. Additional instruction was given between examinations. The performance of these examinations was an individual effort on the part of the trainee without verbal or mechanical assistance from the instructor after the initial ten examinations. All were performed with an instructor viewing through a teaching attachment. Total insertion distance was greater than or equal to 30, greater than or equal to 40, greater than or equal to 50, greater than or equal to 60 cm in 65, 60, 46, and 20 percent of examinations, respectively. Overall performance was better in those with prior rigid sigmoidoscopic experience (20 examinations). The mean examination time was 11.8 minutes. These data help to define the appropriate length of fiberoptic sigmoidoscope recommended for use by inexperienced endoscopists.

Education, Medical, Undergraduate↗

A new flexible sigmoidoscope for the generalist.

The control of colorectal cancer has become increasingly important because of its high incidence in the United States of more than 115,000 cases annually. Although 50% of neoplastic lesions of the colon arise in the distal 25 cm of the bowel, endoscopic examination of this area has not been generally accepted. Recent studies with flexible sigmoidoscopes as substitutes for the rigid proctosigmoidoscope, primarily by endoscopists, have shown an increased yield of neoplastic lesions, with excellent patient acceptance. This study reports the development of an initial trial in 200 patients with a 30-cm flexible sigmoidoscope designed mainly for the nonendoscopist general physician for routine office use as a substitute for the rigid proctosigmoidoscope. The instrument provided an excellent examination in minimum time and with good patient and physician acceptance. Widespread application of such instruments by generalists in routine office practice could have a significant impact on the control of colorectal cancer.

Adult↗

Screening before surgery for colon neoplasms with a flexible sigmoidoscope by surgical residents.

The value of flexible sigmoidoscopy to screen for colorectal neoplasms was determined in asymptomatic patients. One hundred sixty men (mean age 61 +/- 10), who denied a change in bowel habits or blood in their stools and who had guaiac-negative stools, had flexible sigmoidoscopic examinations performed by surgical residents with little previous endoscopy experience, while a staff surgeon continuously viewed the resident's progress through a teaching scope. Forty-nine benign neoplastic polyps were removed from 21% of the patients. The examination was well tolerated in 93% of these patients who received no medications. Resident endoscopists who had performed more than 15 examinations were more likely to reach 50 cm (79%) than those with less experience. The authors conclude that surgical residents are able to safely and effectively screen for colorectal neoplasms with a flexible sigmoidoscope when supervised.

Adult↗

Extent of colonic visualization with the fiberoptic sigmoidoscope.

Forty-two patients underwent flexible sigmoidoscopy in the radiology department. After maximal insertion of the sigmoidoscope, a supine abdominal film documented the position of the tip of the instrument. Correlation with barium enema in all patients determined the extent of visualization of the colon relative to the length of insertion of the sigmoidoscope. Insertion to 60 cm was achieved in 31 (74%), 40-59 cm in six (14%), 25-39 cm in three (7%), and under 25 cm in two (5%), with a mean depth of insertion of 54 cm. Full insertion examined the entire sigmoid colon in 14 (45%) of 31 patients. Insertion between 40-59 cm achieved complete sigmoid evaluation in only one (17%) of six patients. Thus, flexible sigmoidoscopy does not necessarily guarantee evaluation of the entire sigmoid colon.

Adult↗

Colorectal cancer detection with the 60 cm flexible sigmoidoscope in a solo general internist's office.

Emphasis is placed on the importance of early detection of colorectal cancer by the primary care physician using the 60 cm flexible sigmoidoscope. A training format for this procedure is proposed. The author, trained according to this format, found 49 polyps and three carcinomas among his first 365 randomly chosen patients. Of these 317 (87%) were asymptomatic, having no risk factors. The average distance of insertion was 53 cm and the average examination time was 20 minutes. The calculated cost for these 365 patients was approximately +60,000, and the estimated average cost for a potentially curable colorectal cancer detection was approximately +20,000. Although a relatively long examination time may be necessary for the beginner, the author concludes that the primary care physician can be readily trained to handle the 60 cm flexible sigmoidoscope safely and cost effectively.

Adult↗

Sigmoidoscopic and microscopic appearance of the rectal mucosa in homosexual men.

The aims of the study were to determine what microscopic changes occur in the rectal mucosa of men who have had anal intercourse and to correlate the sigmoidoscopic and microscopic appearances. Histological abnormalities were found in 29 of 100 men who attended consecutively a sexually-transmitted diseases clinic. The histopathology of rectal gonorrhoea, as observed in 18 patients, is described as are the microscopic findings in the rectal mucosa of 10 patients with early syphilis. Of 70 men without any detectable rectal infection, biopsies from 15 (21.4%) were abnormal. Intestinal spirochaetosis was observed in biopsies from 36 of these 100 men. With the use of strict criteria to describe the macroscopic appearance of the rectal mucosa, the sigmoidoscopic findings correlated well with the histology.

Adult↗