A 3D-printed cap with sideoptics for colonoscopy: a randomized ex vivo study

Abstract

Adequate polyp detection is crucial to colonoscopy; however, detection can be impaired. In particular, flat polyps located behind folds or near the colonic flexures appear to be a problem. We present a cheap and easily adjustable 3D-printed tool to enhance the view of a standard colonoscope using additional commercially available sideoptics. A cap adjustable to a standard endoscope was printed by a 3 D printer and had two microcameras fixed to offer two additional views. Fourteen endoscopists performed one standard and one sideoptic-enhanced colonoscopy in a randomized order. Flat lesions were simulated in an endoscopy training model. Time for withdrawal was measured, along with the number of flat lesions detected. Withdrawal time did not differ significantly between standard and sideoptic-enhanced colonoscopy (329 vs. 389 seconds). The median number of detected flat lesions per endoscopic examination was significantly higher using the sideoptic tool (8 vs. 6.5; = 0.001). A 3D-printed sideoptic-enhanced cap including two microcameras may be a cheap, easy, and feasible add-on to improve adenoma detection rates in routine colonoscopy.

Additive manufacturing of medical instruments: A state-of-the-art review

“…Furthermore, AM can be used to fabricate additional parts for standard devices or procedures. Walter et al [52] presented a cap that can be added to a conventional colonoscope to enhance the field of view of the instrument and detect the presence of polyps in the colon. Using AM allowed the size of the cup for different colonoscopes to be customized.…”

“…Customization of the instrumentation can also be performed considering the procedure. The instrument can then change in its size for adaptation to conventional devices, such as colonoscopes or endoscopes [52,56] (Fig. 4c) or considering the specific size of the tumor [88].…”

Production of ERCP training model using a 3D printing technique (with video)

“…With the development of endoscopic accessories using three-dimensional (3D) printing, endoscopic training models have also been introduced [8][9][10][11][12]. However, products made by 3D printing technique are relatively hard and not suitable for the endoscopic training model.…”