Background and study aims Duct penetration by the guidewire sometimes occurs during endoscopic retrograde cholangiography, which might lead to adverse events such as acute pancreatitis. To prevent duct penetration, making a loop shape with the guidewire might provide a useful technique. The aim of this experimental study was thus to evaluate which types of guidewire can most easily form a loop shape.
Methods This experimental study evaluated six guidewires (0.025-inch, angle type): MICHISUJI; VisiGlide 2; Jagwire; Pathcorse; RevoWave-α UltraHard 2; and M-through. Flexibility of the tip, shaft stiffness, and the ability to form a loop were evaluated for each type in an ex vivo model. Deformation behavior was also recorded on video, and factors suitable for making a loop shape in each guidewire were evaluated.
Results Flexibility and stiffness of each guidewire differed significantly. During an experimental study regrading deformation behavior before forming a loop shape, maximum load was lower for MICHISUJI (6.8 g) than for other guidewires (Jagwire [11.3 g], M-through [12.9 g], VisiGlide 2 [12.9 g], Revowave [21 g], and Pathcorse [25.4 g]). Mean time required to achieve a loop shape was as follows: MICHISUJI, 6.2 seconds; M-through, 8.7 seconds; VisiGlide 2, 11.0 seconds; and Revowave, 7.1 seconds.
Conclusion In conclusion, characteristics of flexibility and stiffness among guidewires were significantly different in the ex-vivo study. In the experimental study regrading deformation behavior until achieving a loop shape, maximum load also differed. To evaluate whether guidewires easily form a loop shape, clinical study is needed.