Argon plasma coagulation in chronic radiation proctitis

• DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-966284
• Publication Date: 2007-04-11T05:37:56Z
• Authors: A. Postgate; B. Saunders; J. Tjandra; J. Vargo
• Keywords: Radiation proctitis; Radiation Enteritis

Chronic radiation proctitis is a relatively common late complication of pelvic irradiation. The main symptoms are diarrhea, urgency, tenesmus, and rectal bleeding. While mild cases may settle spontaneously over some months, severe hemorrhagic require repeated blood transfusions difficult to treat with medical therapy. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) noncontact thermal technique which can be applied endoscopically. A probe passed through the scope delivers field argon gas mucosal surface where it ionized by high voltage filament, resulting in superficial heating friable vessels. reduces bleeding 80%-90% cases, improve other troublesome diarrhea urgency. APC probably less effective very proctitis; these topical formalin or combination useful. Overall, has proved safe well tolerated technique.