Radiology of the Stomach and the Gastric Camera

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Abstract
A technique for intra-gastric photography using the Olympus Gastro Camera Mark V under fluoroscopic control is presented. Difficulties encountered are discussed. A number of illustrative cases showing mucosal changes, simple ulceration, gastric carcinoma and benign polyps are demonstrated and an attempt made to integrate the gastric photographs with the radiology. The instrument is flexible and easy to pass with relatively little discomfort to the patient. The camera can be flexed or extended by 35 deg. which allows retrograde and angled shots to be taken and assists in passing the camera into difficult positions. The instrument may be manipulated under fluoroscopic control without fogging of the film, thus providing precise information as to its position in the stomach when the photographs are taken. A color transparency is produced which may be demonstrated to one''s colleagues and compared with Ba studies. The camera has a large field of vision, 83 mm in diameter when the lens is 5 cm from the object. The examination may be repeated with comparable results. From a radilogist''s point of view the indications for its use are: an equivocal Ba meal examination (it is probably of more value to use the gastro camera than repeat the meal); Ba meals showing ill-understood mucosal or motility changes; a negative Ba meal in the presence of a strong dyspeptic history; monitoring of gastric ulceration.