PMID: 8585250Dec 1, 1995Paper

Non-contact argon gas coagulation in flexible endoscopy of the gastrointestinal tract: in vitro studies and initial clinical experiences

Zeitschrift für Gastroenterologie
W JohannsL Greiner

Abstract

Diathermocoagulation is indispensable in interventional endoscopy. The argon beam coagulation represents an innovative electrocoagulation method, where high-frequency alternating current is conducted to tissues by ionized argon gas without contact. Before clinical application we performed in vitro studies to evaluate depth and diameter of tissue coagulation of fresh resectations from stomach, small intestine and colon. Power and gas flow were graduated in five steps from 40 to 155 W and from 2 to 7 l/min respectively. Coagulation time (1 s-10 s) and angle of the probe in relation to tissue surface (45 degrees, 90 degrees) were varied. The maximal depth of necrosis was 2.4 mm, the maximal diameter 1.1 cm. There was no perforation found, even in critical areas like colon and duodenum. Accordingly argon beam coagulation was performed in 41 consecutive patients. The power and gas flow were varied in two stages between 40 and 75 watts and 2 and 3 l/min respectively. Coagulation time and angle of the probe were handled individually. In 32 of the 33 patients with bleeding from angiodysplastic lesions or polypectomy sites, with oozing of blood from erosions or ulcers or with bleeding due to vascular penetration by tumors definitive hem...Continue Reading

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Blood Clotting Disorders

Thrombophilia includes conditions with increased tendency for excessive blood clotting. Blood clotting occurs when the body has insufficient amounts of specialized proteins that make blood clot and stop bleeding. Here is the latest research on blood clotting disorders.