Ultrathin Endoscope-Assisted Method for the Management of Upper Gastrointestinal Obstruction to Avoid Technical Failure

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Endoscopic management of upper gastrointestinal obstruction is safe and feasible. However, its technical and clinical success rate is about 90%, which is primarily due to inability to pass a guide-wire through the stricture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of an ultrathin endoscope for correct placement of guide wire to avoid technical failure in upper gastrointestinal obstruction. METHODS: Retrospective assessment of ultrathin endoscope to traverse the stenosis of the upper gastrointestinal tract in technically difficult cases was performed. Technical and clinical success rates and immediate complications were analyzed. RESULTS: Nine cases were included in this study (eight cases of stent insertion and one case of balloon dilatation). Technical success was achieved in all of the patients (100%) and oral feeding was feasible in all of the cases (100%). Immediate complications, such as migration, perforation, and hemorrhage, did not develop in any of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrathin endoscope-assisted method for upper gastrointestinal obstruction is potentially safe and useful to avoid technical failure.