Deeper rectal biopsies and better yield of neuronal structures with Scheye vs Noblett forceps--preliminary results

J Pediatr Surg. 2011 Mar;46(3):478-81. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2010.07.053.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare 2 different forceps designed to perform biopsies of the rectal mucosa, those of Noblett and Scheye, the latter having a similar design and differing by the disposable cutting system.

Methods: This historical study compares biopsies obtained with the Noblett forceps in 13 girls and 20 boys (mean ± SD age, 13 ± 30 months) and biopsies obtained with the Scheye forceps in 19 girls and 21 boys (mean ± SD age, 8.5 ± 19 months).

Results: The thickness of the material obtained with the Scheye forceps was significantly greater for the specimens obtained with the Scheye forceps (total biopsy: 1.74 ± 0.46 mm vs 0.67 ± 0.2 mm, P < .0001; submucosa: 1.12 ± 0.4 mm vs 0.14 ± 0.17 mm, P < .001). The Scheye forceps considerably increased the yield of neuronal structures, both for submucosal plexus (P < .003) and ganglia (P < .0001). No complication occurred in either group.

Conclusion: The Scheye disposable rectal biopsy system provides larger mucosal biopsy samples than the Noblett with increased recovery of neuronal structures.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy, Needle / instrumentation*
  • Biopsy, Needle / methods
  • Child, Preschool
  • Constipation / diagnosis
  • Constipation / pathology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Equipment Design
  • Female
  • Ganglia, Autonomic / pathology*
  • Hirschsprung Disease / diagnosis
  • Hirschsprung Disease / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Intestinal Mucosa / innervation
  • Intestinal Mucosa / pathology
  • Male
  • Rectum / innervation
  • Rectum / pathology*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Single-Blind Method
  • Submucous Plexus / pathology*
  • Surgical Instruments