Abstract
The usefulness of a new system of endoscopic ultrasonography, Fujinon Sonoprobe System SP101 with a miniature probe scanner of 20MHz, was investigated in diagnosing gastric cancer invasion. The system is used in conjunction with the forceps channel valve of most video endoscopes. On 38 cases with gastric cancer examined, image of lamina muscularis mucosae (mm) was obtained in only 4 cases (19%) as a clear layer structure in early gastric cancer. Diagnosis of depth invasion was difficult in 8 cases (21%). Half of the lesions located at the lesser carvature near the angulus of the stomach. In the meantime, a precise diagnosis of depth invasion was possible in 76% of early gastric cancer, except for 8 cases cited above. The detailed interpretation, on the other hand, was difficult in advanced cancer because of extensive attenuation. To cover the lesser penetra-tion and limited size of imaging field, the combined use of lower frequency mechanical radial scanner will be effective.
