The feasibility of disposable video‐bronchoscopes, Ambu aScope3, for exploration of the common bile duct and extraction of stones

• Published in: DEN open Vol. 2; no. 1; pp. e67 - n/a
• Main Authors: Kalipershad, Sujala N. R., Subar, Daren A., Date, Ravindra S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Australia John Wiley & Sons, Inc 01-04-2022; John Wiley and Sons Inc; Wiley
• Subjects: Ambu aScope; Bile ducts; choledochoscopy; common bile duct exploration; common bile duct stones; Endoscopy; Gallbladder; Gastrointestinal surgery; Laparoscopy; Original; Patients; stone extraction; Surgeons; United Kingdom > UK; stone extraction; choledochoscopy; Ambu aScope; common bile duct stones; common bile duct exploration
• ISSN: 2692-4609; 2692-4609
• DOI: 10.1002/deo2.67

Introduction
The aim of this study was to assess and evaluate the feasibility of using the Ambu aScope3 (aScope) for common bile duct (CBD) explorations, stone detection and extraction, as well as to assess feasibility of its use through the laparoscopic ports in a low‐volume centre.
Methods
This is a dual centre prospective study, conducted between February 2015 and August 2019, of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy and common bile duct exploration. Ethical approval was obtained from the North West ‐ Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee. All patients were counselled on the use of the aScope in clinic, prior to surgery. The Primary endpoints were the ability of the aScope to identify CBD stones, perform a cholangiogram through the available channel, retrieve the stones using a Dormia basket and to visualise second generation biliary radicles satisfactorily. The secondary endpoint was the use of the aScope, via a laparoscopic port without a gas leak. The data collected included patient demographics, need for a CBD exploration, intraoperative confirmation of CBD stones and their safe extraction using an aScope.
Results
A total of nine patients were recruited. The aScope provided satisfactory views in eight of nine patients and enabled the safe extraction of CBD stones in six of nine cases. One patient had a bile leak, and another had a transected CBD prior to the use of the aScope.
Conclusion
We found that the aScope is a safe, feasible alternative to a choledochoscope, and in a low‐volume centre, it provides a financially viable option.