New HDTV Scopes Improve Cancer-Catching Tests

(Logan, UT) March 15, 2010. New high-definition scopes and an accompanying video processing system at Logan Regional Hospital’s Gastroenterology (G.I) Lab bring the latest HDTV technology to patients.

The HDTV endoscopes are used for colonoscopies and upper endoscopy procedures. These scopes give physicians the ability to image the digestive tract in greater detail to detect worrisome growths, like polyps and pre-cancerous lesions. In colonoscopies, physicians visually examine the lining of the colon and rectum. Upper endoscopies are used to examine the esophagus, stomach and the upper part of the small intestine, the duodenum.

“This technology provides remarkably clear views of anatomical structures and fine capillaries,” said Vikram Garg, M.D., gastroenterologist and medical director of the Logan Regional Hospital G.I. Lab. “This enhances patient diagnoses and helps physicians detect and eliminate abnormal tissues in the esophagus, stomach, and colon before they become cancerous.”

The HDTV scopes are manufactured by Olympus and are part of its EVIS EXERA II 180 series high definition system. According to Olympus, this is the world’s first system to deliver both high definition and narrow band imaging (NBI) technology to gastrointestinal examinations. The HDTV signal from a video processor more than doubles the number of scan lines produced by conventional systems. NBI is a real-time technology that enhances visualization of the capillary network of the intestines and other digestive organs. NBI works by altering the white light source emitted by the scope to a bluish light. This brings about improved visual contrast of the surface structure of the colon, esophagus or stomach, helping doctors see fine capillary patterns of the lining, which are normally hard to distinguish.

Gastroenterologists recommend that men and women age 50 and older, with no established risk of colon cancer, get a colonoscopy every 10 years. People who have had colon polyps, blood in the stool, or a relative with colon cancer should see their doctor about getting the procedure earlier.