Advantages
- Immediate restoration of suction function: unlike traditional methods which lead to procedural delays in the event of blockage, this tool allows for rapid clearance.
- Cost-effective: inexpensive and readily available components enable enhanced affordability compared to scope replacement or repair.
- Simple design enables endoscopists to effectively clear blockages without need for specialized training.
- Reduction in anesthesia time prevents procedural delays associated with scope exchanges.
Summary
A frequent problem which occurs during colonoscopies is the clogging of the colonoscope’s suction channel by residual seeds or stool, which significantly impairs suction functionality. This common occurrence results in procedural delays, extended anesthesia time, and often requires halting the entire procedure to exchange the entire colonoscope and its components. These interruptions not only reduce procedural efficiency but also increase patient risk and healthcare costs. A practical, efficient, and non-disruptive method to rapidly clear obstructions is therefore essential.
Our researchers have developed a colonoscope backwash tool designed to restore suction functionality during procedures. This device is composed of a 50-60 cc Toomey syringe as a sterile water reservoir and manual pressure source, connected to a short (~2 inch) flexible plastic tubing that terminates in a flexible rubber adapter engineered to securely fit the colonoscope’s suction port. To operate, the endoscopist attaches the tool, manually occludes the biopsy and air/water valves, and flushes sterile water through the suction channel, thereby dislodging debris and restoring suction functionality. This tool has been proven to be 100% effective in clinical trial settings and offers an inexpensive, simple, and clinically proven solution to prevent procedural delays and scope exchanges.
Desired Partnerships
• License
• Sponsored Research
• Co-Development