Outpatient pediatric oesophagoscopy using a flexible fibreoptic bronchoscope. Design of an insufflation-aspiration adaptor.

The design of an adaptor for use with fibre-optic flexible endoscopes with a single instrument channel is described that enables them to be used for oesophagoscopy. The adaptor enables both aspiration of secretions as well as gas insufflation to expand the oesophagus distal to the tip of the endoscope down the single channel. When the adaptor is used on a pediatric bronchoscope it is possible to perform oesophagoscopy in an outpatient setting on the awake child. This application is particularly useful for the assessment of children who have ingested corrosive agents and enables rational management decisions to be based on precise knowledge of the extent of the mucosal injury.