A water-soluble alternative to simethicone for gastrointestinal endoscopy: Results of a clinical trial

Am J Infect Control. 2023 Oct;51(10):1192-1195. doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2023.04.166. Epub 2023 Apr 25.

Abstract

During endoscopy, simethicone defoaming agents are commonly used to improve visualization, but they leave residues and impact drying. This clinical trial involved patients undergoing colonoscopy procedures with substantial bubbles that impeded mucosal wall visibility. As an alternative to simethicone, investigators evaluated a water-soluble, ginger-based gastrointestinal supplement (GI-Ease) that did not contain sugars, thickeners, or binding agents. In 112/114 cases (98%), the bubbles were reduced sufficiently to allow visualization of the gastrointestinal tract, with no adverse events.

Keywords: Antibubble; Biofilm; Colonoscope; Colonoscopy; Defoaming agent; Reprocessing effectiveness; Visualization.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Antifoaming Agents*
  • Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal
  • Gastrointestinal Tract
  • Humans
  • Simethicone*
  • Water

Substances

  • Antifoaming Agents
  • Simethicone
  • Water