[Argon plasma coagulation--a new method in therapeutic endoscopy].
BACKGROUND
By argon plasma coagulation (APC), a current is applied to tissues as ionised gas. Special probes have recently been developed for applying the gas through flexible endoscopes. In the field of therapeutic endoscopy, this method is promising for several diseases in the gastrointestinal tract.


METHODS
At Ostfold Hospital in Fredrikstad, Norway, 122 treatments in 80 patients were performed during the years 1997-99.


RESULTS
The new method was useful for endoscopic treatment of haemorrhages, tumour debulking and tumour ingrowth and overgrowth in oesophageal stents. Abdominal pain was related to insufflation of air and gas. Complications related to the method were not observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Our experience with this new method was very positive. The method was effective, had a very low complication rate, and the equipment was easy to use. The application of APC in premalignant conditions is discussed.
Hauge
T
T
Gastroseksjonen Medisinsk avdeling, Sykehuset Ostfold Fredrikstad.
Moum
B
B
Sandvei
P
P
Lerang
F
F
Ravneng
P
P
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001128:Argon; D002648:Child; D004564:Electrocoagulation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D020776:Endoscopes, Gastrointestinal; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D001128:Argon
Koagulasjon med argonplasma--en ny metode i terapeutisk endoskopi.