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Endoscopy 2009; 41(12): 1032-1037
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1215294
Original article

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

The suction pseudopolyp technique: a novel method for the removal of small flat nonpolypoid lesions of the colon and rectum

V.  Pattullo1 , M.  J.  Bourke1 , K.  L.  Tran2 , D.  McLeod2 , S.  J.  Williams1 , A.  A.  Bailey1 , S.  Alexander1 , A.  Mishra1 , J.  Co1
  • 1Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
  • 2Department of Tissue Pathology (Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research), Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
Further Information

Publication History

submitted 18 March 2009

accepted after revision 4 August 2009

Publication Date:
06 November 2009 (online)

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Commentaire de travail de V. Pattullo et al., pp. 1032Endoscopy 2009; 41(12): 1105-1105
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1306761

Background and study aims: Small flat nonpolypoid lesions of the colorectum can be technically difficult to target and completely remove; techniques such as hot biopsy forceps electrocauterization are associated with serositis, delayed bleeding, and perforation. This study aimed to describe a novel technique for the removal of such lesions and demonstrate its safety and efficacy.

Patients and methods: Patients aged 18 – 80 years with flat nonpolypoid lesions (Paris-Japanese classification 0-IIa and 0-IIb, measuring less than 10 mm) identified at colonoscopy were included in this prospective study. The lesions were removed by the suction pseudopolyp technique (SPT): the lesion is aspirated into the suction channel of the colonoscope and continuous suction applied for 5 seconds whilst the colonoscope is gently retracted. On release of the suction, the resulting pseudopolyp containing the lesion and a margin of normal tissue is easily ensnared and resected. The primary outcomes were endoscopic completeness of polyp resection and complication rate.

Results: Over a 12-month period, 1231 polyps were removed during 2656 colonoscopies; 126 polyps (in 101 patients) met inclusion criteria. Complete endoscopic resection was achieved in 100 % of the polyps, without immediate or delayed complication. Of the resected lesions, 57 % had malignant potential (adenomas 47 % and sessile serrated lesions 10 %); a higher proportion of lesions removed from the right colon had malignant potential compared with those from the left colon (75 % vs. 41 %, P = 0.0066).

Conclusions: Diminutive flat lesions of the colorectum are predominantly adenomas and sessile serrated lesions. SPT is a safe, effective, and reproducible therapy for removal of these lesions.

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M. J. BourkeMB BS 

Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Westmead Hospital

Hawkesbury Rd, Westmead NSW 2145
Sydney
Australia

Fax: +61-2-96333958

Email: michael@citywestgastro.com.au

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