Colon cleaning during colonoscopy: a new mechanical cleaning device tested in a porcine model

Background Poor colon cleaning frequently impairs colonoscopy. The aim of the study was to develop a method of cleaning the colon during colonoscopy. Methods A soft-tipped catheter with a water jet spray at its tip was designed to break up and propel stool contents in the direction of the anus. Stool contents were collected in a container attached to an endoscopy trolley. Observations In bench tests, colon models filled with porridge were rapidly cleaned. Unprepared colons (n = 15) of anesthetized pigs were cleared in a few minutes by using this device at colonoscopy, by advancing the catheter under direct vision into concretions, which were rapidly broken down. There was minimal trauma to mucosa in these survival studies. Conclusions A colon cleaning method for use at colonoscopy was highly effective in cleaning colon models and in unprepared pig colon. This device may have a role in cleaning the colon in unprepared or poorly prepared patients.