ERCP with the disposable duodenoscope aScope Duodeno in routine clinical practice

Aims Bacterial colonization of reuseable duodenoscopes has been linked to healthcare-associated infections and was extensively discussed in the recent years as a potential risk for patients after ERCP. Therefore, disposable duodenoscopes were developed to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of the single-use duodenoscope aScope Duodeno (Ambu A/S, Denmark) in routine clinical practice.

Methods A total of 51 patients with indication for ERCP were examined with the aScope Duodeno. The time to the papilla duodeni, canulation rate of the intended duct, ASGE grade of complexity of the ERCP and the outcome of the procedure was documented. A 30-days-follow-up with a standardized questionnaire regarding infections or other complications is introduced.

Results 30 women and 21 men with an average age of 69 (32-97) years were examined with the aScope Duodeno. In 39,2% there was a native papilla while 60% of cases had prior EST. Successful intubation rate was 100% and time to the papilla was 02:45min, intubation of the intended duct 07:25min and overall procedure time was 31:11min. Complexity of the ERCP was high with ASGE-grade of 47% ASGE grade 3, 39% ASGE grade 2, 14% ASGE grade 1, mainly stenosis and interventions including PDT, SEMS and mother-baby cholangioscopy were performed. The conversion rate was 21%. There were no major complications, minor complications were seen in 2 out of 51 patients (bleeding, laceration of papilla). All were treated endoscopically.The ERCPs were conducted by endoscopists of all levels of experience.

We anticipate being able to showcase a cohort of about 100 cases by the time of the congress.

Conclusions ERCP with the disposable duodenoscope aScope Duodeno is feasible and safe in routine clinical practice. It might be more challenging in more complex interventional procedures and when used by non-experienced low-case load endoscopists.

Conflicts of interest

Authors do not have any conflict of interest to disclose.

Publication History

Article published online:
15 April 2024