Air and CO2 escape during colonoscopy often causes the colon to collapse, prolonging procedures and increasing patient risk and costs. Effective methods to maintain colonic distension are lacking, but recent studies show that adequate distension is crucial for improving Adenoma Detection Rates (ADR).
The two most common methods—manual buttock pressure and patient repositioning—are often ineffective, physically demanding, and distract endo/anesthesia staff from important tasks, increasing the risk of staff injury and patient aspiration. Other methods, such as left colon water instillation, are impractical, messy, and require technical skill and increase cost.
The Air Assist is a disposable, medical-grade silicon device designed for ease of use. It effectively creates a reversible seal between the colonoscope and the anus or stoma, reducing air escape. This device can be maneuvered by the endoscopist or technician, allowing for immediate, reversible colonic distention on demand. This leads to improved visibility during diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy.