Safety and efficacy of the FUSE-system in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and infectious colitis

Introduction: Recently, a novel full-spectrum endoscope (FUSE) was launched enabling a 330 ° field of view on three contiguous monitors. Although recent data has already highlighted the potential of the FUSE-system to significantly improve adenoma detection rates, concerns have been raised regarding the safety and efficacy of the system in patients with inflammatory bowel disorders.

Aims: Aim of this ongoing study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the FUSE-system in patients with IBD.

Material & Methods: Patients with IBD and infectious colitis referred for endoscopic evaluation of their symptoms were included in a prospective pilot study whose primary end point was device safety. Additional endpoints included success of ileum intubation, time to cecum, withdrawal time, and success of endoscopic interventions.

Results: So far, 22 patients (mean age 35 years; Range 18 – 78 years) were prospectively enrolled and analyzed. 5 patients presented with infectious colitis, 11 patients with Crohn's disease and 6 patients with ulcerative colitis. Endoscopic procedure was performed in all cases without any complications. Intubation of the terminal ileum was successfully performed in all patients were required. Median times to reach the cecum and withdrawal times were 3.5 minutes and 12 minutes, respectively. All the endoscopic interventional procedures that were required were also performed without any complications.

Conclusion: The FUSE-system appears to be a safe and effective device to use even in patients with inflammatory bowel disorders and active inflammation.