2004 Volume 46 Issue 8 Pages 1522-1526
Background : Endoscopic color Doppler ultrasonography (ECDUS) is a method for detecting color flow images in blood vessels. In the present study, electronic radial ECDUS in cases of esophageal varices is described. Methods : Thirteen patients with esophageal varices were studied. The technique of ECDUS was performed using a Pentax EG3630-UR (forward-view) with a distal tip diameter of 12 mm. The instrument (electronic radial array) has a curved array scanning transducer with variable frequency (5.0, 7.5, 10.0 MHz) and B mode/color Doppler/power Doppler capability. A Hitachi EUB 6500 was used for the display, providing a 270°images. We monitored the color flow images of esophageal varices, paraesophageal veins, and perforating veins using this technique. Results : Color flow images of esophageal varices and paraesophageal veins were obtained in 13 of the 13 patients, whereas color flow images of perforating veins were obtained in four of the 13 patients (30.8%). Thirteen esophageal varices exhibited velocities raging between 3.0 and 11.7 cm/s (mean= 6.3 cm/s). The forward-viewing optics facilitated insertion, but the stiffness of the distal tip limited the flexibility of the scope, especially when attempting J- or U-turn view. Conclusion : Electronic radial ECDUS provides color flow images similar in quality to those of convex-type ECDUS with the additional advantages of forward-view optics and extended 270°views.
