Abstract
We had the opportunity to use prototype colonoscope PCF-Y0003-I (abbreviated proto PCF as follows) produced by Olympus company which could be inserted to the cecum safely with lesser pain than conventional colonoscope. Proto PCF is the tentative model equipped with the advantage of PCF-PQ260I already on sale having passive bending section added newly behind the first bending section of the conventional scope.
Proto PCF was additionally equipped with variable stiffness function to avoid loop reformation at SD junction which is frequently experienced in PCF-PQ260I.
Forty-one colonoscopic examinations with proto PCF were compared with 53 cases with PCF-PQ260I on the point of passing pattern of SD junction, time to reach the cecum and presence of patient′s pain during examinations.
Between proto PCF and PCF-PQ260I, there was no significant difference in the passing pattern of SD junction, time required passing SD and time to reach the cecum.
Number of patients with abdominal pain during colonoscopy was significantly few in examinations with proto PCF than with PCF-PQ260I.
Variable stiffness function was useful for the colonoscope with passive bending section as well as the conventional PCF-PQ260I to prevent frequent loop reformation in SD junction and other portions of the colon.
