Randomized study of digital single-operator cholangioscope compared to fiberoptic single-operator cholangioscope in a novel cholangioscopy bench model

Abstract

Background and study aims Cholangiopancreatoscopy is utilized for diagnosis and therapy of pancreaticobiliary disorders. a fully-disposable, digital, single-operator cholangioscope (DSOC) was developed with high image resolution and wide field-of-view. This bench study compared the new DSOC to the previous semi-disposable, fiber-optic cholangioscope (FSOC) prior to the clinical availability of the DSOC system.

Methods Five experts performed one practice run followed by randomized runs comparing DSOC to FSOC in a biliary tract model consisting of three fixed left-intrahepatic tracts (LIHD), and variable common bile duct (CBD) and right-intrahepatic tracts (RIHD) with seven total lesions in multiple configurations. Timed runs aimed to visualize and target each lesion using miniature biopsy forceps. Definitions: visual success, visualizing targets; targeting success, touching target with forceps; complete run, touching seven targets within 20 minutes. Image quality, ease-of-use, and time to completion were recorded.

Results Thirty-seven evaluable runs (20 DSOC, 17 FSOC) were completed. DSOC was superior to FSOC in Visual (99 % vs. 67 %, P < 0.001) and targeting success (6.6 vs. 4.5, P = 0.009), proportion of complete runs (13 /20 vs. 0 /17, P < 0.001) and time of run (10.1 min vs. 15.4 min, P < 0.001). For fixed LIHD, DSOC achieved higher targeting success compared to FSOC (2.6 vs. 1.1, P < 0.001) with no difference in RIHD and CBD targets (4.0 vs. 3.4, P = 0.39). Investigators reported superior image quality and ease-of-use with DSOC.

Conclusions In this model, DSOC performed superiorly to FSOC in image quality, visualization, and maneuverability. The model could potentially be utilized for training endoscopists less experienced with cholangiopancreatoscopy.

Introduction

Peroral cholangiopancreatoscopy (POCP) is used to evaluate indeterminate biliary strictures, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia, and treat difficult biliary or pancreatic stones [1]. POCP provides direct visualization of abnormalities not readily identified by radiography; targets stones for intraductal lithotripsy and lesions to biopsy, assessing the extent of tumor for surgical resection; and has emerging applications such as extracting inwardly migrated pancreatic or biliary stents and guiding tumor ablative therapies [2] [3] [4].

While use of endoscope-based “mother-daughter” cholangioscopy systems was first reported more than four decades ago, the fiber-optic, single-operator, semi-disposable cholangioscope system (FSOC; Legacy SpyGlass, Boston Scientific Corporation, Marlborough, Massachusetts, United States) has resulted in wider utilization of POCP over the last decade. The FSOC was the first commercialized system to integrate optical bundles into a catheter-based system rather than an endoscope-based system [3] [4]. Several series describe use of FSOC for evaluation of indeterminate biliary strictures and lesions [5] [6] [7] [8] [9]. In a prospective, multi-enter, international clinical registry of 297 patients requiring evaluation of bile duct disease or biliary stone therapy, adequate tissue for histological examination was collected in 88 % of patients who underwent biopsy. Procedure success was achieved in 92 % of patients with stones and the overall incidence of procedure-related adverse events was 7.5 % for diagnostic cases and 6.1 % for stone therapy cases. Importantly, in 64 % of patients, addition of FSOC to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography led to changes in clinical management [10]. In difficult biliary stone cases, FSOC-guided intraductal lithotripsy has shown complete stone clearance rates of 73 % to 100 % [11] [12] [13] [14].

Nearly a decade of clinical experience suggested a need to improve the optical resolution, tip characteristics, accessory introduction, and tip articulation of the FSOC [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [20]. A digital and fully disposable single-operator cholangioscopy system (DSOC; SpyGlass DS, Boston Scientific Corporation, Marlborough, Massachusetts, United States) was developed. The goal of this bench study was to compare FSOC with DSOC in terms of image quality, ease of use, and ability to visualize and target fixed and variable markers utilizing miniature biopsy forceps (MBF, Spybite, Boston Scientific Corporation, Marlborough, Massachusetts, United States).

Materials and methods

Digital single operator cholangioscopy system

The DSOC has a 10.8 French access and delivery catheter with a shorter working length for potential use with short wire technology, two dedicated 0.6-mm irrigation channels, and four-way tip deflection. Removal of the fiber-optic cable provided a potential opportunity for additional enhancements. This included a slightly larger working channel diameter through part of its course (maximal diameter 1.3 mm but tapers to 1.2 mm) that may improve the ability to pass accessories, increased maneuverability of the catheter tip, increased field-of-view (120 degrees), and a simplified set-up ([Fig. 1]). Comparative specifications of FSOC with DSOC are detailed in [Table 1].

Fig. 1 SpyGlass Direct Visualization System with SpyScope DS.

Table 1 FSOC and DSOC specification changes.

Component	FSOC	DSOC
SpyGlass optical probe
Field-of-view	70°	120°
Disposability	Semi-disposable, up to 10 times reuse	Fully-disposable, single-use
Camera	Fiber-optic	Digital with 4 × greater resolution
Imager	Fiber-optic probe independent of SpyScope	Digital sensor embedded at the distal tip of the SpyScope
SpyScope access and delivery catheter
Working length	220 cm	214 cm
Outer diameter	10 French	10.8 French
Working channel diameter	1.2 mm	1.3 mm

Development of the cholangioscopy biliary tract model

The watertight urethane rubber biliary tract bench model was designed by Pulse Research and Development (Southampton, Pennsylvania, United States) with input from the authors. The model features a fixed section representing a bifurcation 10.5 cm from the ampulla with a transition to a trifurcation intended to represent acutely angulated left intrahepatic ducts (LIHD). The three LIHD lumina were each 5 mm in diameter and 35 mm in length with a visual target at the distal segment designed to represent a 0°, 15°, and 30° angle from the takeoff of the trifurcation. The model also featured two variable inserts representing the common bile duct (CBD) and right intrahepatic (RIHD) tracts. The first insert was approximately 9 cm long and varied in diameter from 6.5 mm (RIHD) to 20 mm (CBD). The pseudopapilla served as the entry of this insert and was 3.8 mm in diameter. This segment contained two raised lesions (e. g. target areas) of a contrasting color in variable locations. The second insert was approximately 3 cm long and also contained two colored lesions in variable locations. A total of seven lesions were placed inside the LIHD, RIHD, and CBD of the bench model. There were 60 different configurations in total. The model also featured a cystic duct and pancreatic duct which served as visual references only and did not need to be cannulated. [Fig. 2] contains an image of the cholangioscopy biliary tract model.

Fig. 2 Biliary model. a External view of the biliary model and duodenoscope entrance. b Open view of the model demonstrating the papilla and spaces for insertion of randomized inserts. c Placement of randomized inserts into the papilla model.

Description of timed trials

Five investigators from the United States, Asia, and Europe participated in the study. All investigators were experts in the field of cholangioscopy and had utilized FSOC clinically but had only ex-vivo or porcine model experience with the DSOC system prior to initiation of this trial. Immediately prior to the timed trials, each investigator completed a single practice run with both the FSOC and DSOC systems, followed by sequential timed runs randomized to the two systems. Randomization to choose FSOC or DSOC was based on a blinded pull from an allotment of numbers assigned to one of two groups equally represented in the pool (overall 1:1). The goal of each run was to visualize the four variable colored targets and simulate biopsy by touching the target with the MBF which was passed through the system’s working channel. In the fixed portion of the model (e. g. LIHD) the goal was to enter and visualize each of the three lumina with terminal targets. A technologist was present during testing to time the run using a stopwatch and document the results. The technologist also changed out the model configurations between runs to provide variations in location of lesions in the model.

The following outcomes were collected to document performance of the devices during testing: Visual success was defined as the ability to visualize the targets. Targeting success was defined as the ability to touch the targets with the MBF. Complete run was defined as identification and targeting of all seven targets within 25 minutes. Total time of run was the duration between entering and exiting the pseudopapilla. A maximum time of 25 minutes was allotted for each run. Each outcome was analyzed by type of target (fixed or variable). Additionally, after completion of all runs, investigators completed a single assessment of image quality and ease of use for FSOC and DSOC using a visual analog scale (VAS) of zero to 10, where zero was unacceptably poor and 10 was excellent.

Data were entered into a database for analysis. All analyses were generated using SAS software version 9.4. (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, North Carolina, United States). Visual success was analyzed using a Fisher’s Exact test. Targeting success was analyzed using a negative binomial model between the groups. Time of run and VAS were analyzed using a t-test. Time to completion was analyzed using a t-test and a negative binomial model was used to test visual and targeting success between the groups.

Results

A total of 39 runs were completed by five investigators prior to clinical availability of the Spy DS system in February 2015. Data from two of the runs were excluded due to inadequate randomization, resulting in 37 evaluable runs used for analysis (17 FSOC, 20 DSOC; 259 total targets). [Table 2] contains the summary of all results.

Table 2 Time trial outcomes.

	FSOC 17 total trials 119 total targets	DSOC 20 total trials 140 total targets	P value
Visual success (%)	67 % (80 of 119)	99 % (139 of 140)	< 0.001
Variable targets	90 % (61 of 68)	100 % (80 of 80)	< 0.001
Fixed targets	37 % (19 of 51)	98 % (59 of 60)	< 0.001
Targeting success per run Mean (SD) (Min, Max)	4.5 (0.7) (3.0, 5.0)	6.6 (0.7) (5.0, 7.0)	0.009
Variable targets	3.5 (0.7) (2.0, 4.0)	3.9 (0.2) (3.0, 4.0)	0.449
Fixed targets	1.1 (0.2) (1.0, 2.0)	2.6 (0.7) (1.0, 3.0)	< 0.001
Complete runs (%)	0 % (0 of 17)	65 % (13 of 20)	< 0.001
Time of run Mean (SD) (min, max)	15.4 (4.0) (7.6, 21.6)	10.1 (3.7) (4.1, 17.0)	< 0.001
Image quality (VAS) Mean (SD) (Min, Max)	4.3 (1.0) (3.0, 5.0)	8.3 (0.5) (8.0, 9.0)	< 0.001
Ease of use (VAS) Mean (SD) (Min, Max)	4.8 (1.0) (4.0, 6.0)	8.5 (0.6) (8.0, 9.0)	< 0.001

SD, standard deviation; VAS, vsual analog scale

Visual success was superior with DSOC compared with FSOC (99 % versus 67 %, P < 0.001). As noted in [Fig. 3], the difference in visual success was more striking with the fixed, acutely angled “LIHD” targets which were correctly identified in 37 % of FSOC runs compared with 98 % of the DSOC runs (P < 0.001). The ability to successfully visualize and target (targeting success per run) was superior in the DSOC compared with FSOC groups (6.6 of 7 versus 4.5 of 7, P = 0.009). With regard to targeting success, the DSOC group had statistically higher success with fixed targets (2.6 versus 1.1, P < 0.001) but not variable targets (P = 0.449). The proportion of complete runs was statistically higher in the DSOC group (13/20, 65 %) compared to the FSOC group (P < 0.001).

Fig. 3 Visual success.

The time of run was faster with DSOC (average 10.1 minutes) compared to the FSOC system (average of 15.4 minutes) (P < 0.001). In general, the time it took to complete a run improved over time reflecting a learning curve on the part of the investigator ([Fig. 4]). Of note, despite investigators’ prior extensive experience with FSOC, both the initial and final time of run was faster with DSOC. Further, the slope of the learning curve was steeper with DSOC.

Fig. 4 Time of run learning curve.

Each investigator preferred the image quality, as well as the ease of use, with DSOC compared to FSOC ([Fig. 5]). On the VAS, average image quality was rated 4.3 with FSOC compared to 8.3 with DSOC (P < 0.001). Similarly, ease of use was rated 4.8 with FSOC versus 8.5 with DSOC (P < 0.001).

Fig. 5 Physician evaluation of devices following all runs.

Discussion

Redesign of the fiberoptic device included a tapered insertion tip, digital and higher resolution image, an increased field-of-view from 70° to 120°, and an increase in working channel diameter through most of its length, which improved upon several of the shortcomings seen with the first-generation SOC system.

Frequently, perceived advances in medical device technology that are often more expensive than their predecessors are incorporated into practice without preclinical bench data to demonstrate superiority. Endoscopic devices are no exception and though limited retrospective clinical data using DSOC do exist, objective comparative studies are lacking [21] [22]. Results from our bench model study which was performed prior to the clinical availability of the DSOC system suggest that these theoretical improvements, though unblinded, have been objectively realized with significantly higher rates of visual and targeting success and reduced total times with DSOC. Of note, no investigator was able to achieve a complete run (7 of 7 targets identified and simulated biopsies completed) with the FSOC in the allotted time primarily due to the limited tip articulation of the fiber-optic system. A difference in targeting of the CBD lesions was not seen between the two arms likely due to minimal need for tip angulation. When utilizing the DSOC, the physicians achieved complete runs in 65 % of cases. Clinical implications for this finding may be an enhanced ability to enter tortuous intrahepatic ducts, cystic duct insertion points, and traversing and visualizing the often-angulated genu during pancreatoscopy.

Though efficiency is an ever-increasing requirement for endoscopists, visualizing pathology and targets with confidence by an improved optical image is essential. To further enhance our ability and interest in utilizing new technology, an improvement in device set-up is apparent. The device has automatic illumination, white balance and focus with a “plug-and-play” configuration given the absence of a separate optical bundle as in the FSOC system. Clinically, this may result in shorter procedure times with potential reductions in anesthesia time and fluoroscopy use. Further, the DSOC device is fully disposable which eliminates the need for reprocessing of the optical bundle that was required with FSOC [4].

Although each endoscopist had extensive experience with FSOC and limited to no experience with DSOC, each individual adapted to use of DSOC with quicker times to completion and more complete trials, demonstrating the impact of the improved image quality and maneuverability.

The ex-vivo biliary model utilized in this study had visual targets and angulations that may be seen during examination of the extrahepatic ducts and tortuous intrahepatic ducts, respectively. Unique aspects of this ex-vivo biliary model study were the blinding of endoscopists to the location of targets in the extrahepatic exchangeable segment and ability to standardize and quantify visual targets for biopsy, which permitted a direct comparison of the two devices.

Several limitations of this study warrant discussion. First, the investigators who participated in the study were experienced users of the FSOC system and the ability to adapt to potentially improved image quality and maneuverability with DSOC was seamless. This may not translate to a simple transition for less experienced users. The endoscopists were not blinded to type of catheter used as the reusable and movable optical probe in the FSOC is a visible distinguishing feature. Further, their knowledge and, in some cases, input for development of the new device could have introduced bias in their utilization of it. The investigators did not have a set minimum or maximum time limit to identify each individual target, which may have influenced the time of run but each investigator was aware of the total time restriction. It is nevertheless encouraging that the results of the objective measures of time and successful visualization correlate with the physicians’ purely subjective perceptions of their experience according to the VAS. Use of the bench model, while convenient and anatomically simulating acute intrahepatic angulations, made it difficult to collect actual biopsy samples. Therefore, the surrogate measure of touching the targets with forceps was as close to simulating a biopsy as possible but would not be able to assess tissue adequacy. Extrahepatic portions of the model were interchangeable so investigators were not aware of the location of lesions in this area with each pass through. The bench model was not able to simulate some real-world clinical situations such as use of irrigation and suction to clear debris and mucus from the visual field or passage of accessories such as biopsy forceps through the two devices’ working channels or wire exchanges for advancement of the SOC system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, in this ex-vivo biliary bench model, the digital single-operator cholangioscopy system demonstrated superior performance when compared with the fiber-optic single-operator system. The DSOC has improved digital image capability and maneuverability. Further, and perhaps most importantly as continued expanded use of intraductal endoscopy is realized, this novel bench biliary model could be utilized in training endoscopists that are less experienced with cholangiopancreatoscopy.

Further, whether the simpler setup and ease of use will permit wider adoption by high-volume ERCP users new to cholangioscopy remains to be seen.

Competing interests

Drs. Shah, Neuhaus, Parsi, Reddy, and Pleskow serve on the medical advisory board and are consultants for Boston Scientific, Inc.

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to dedicate this manuscript to the memory of Professor Yang K. Chen, MD, FASGE, AGAF, FACG, who pioneered the widespread clinical application of per oral cholangiopancreatoscopy.

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