The NHS is set to roll out a simple ‘sponge-on-a-string’ to diagnose Barrett’s oesophagus – a move that will benefit thousands of patients.
The innovative test piloted by the NHS has shown promising results in diagnosing Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition linked to oesophageal cancer, while significantly reducing the need for invasive endoscopy procedures.
The trial, which involved over 8,500 patients, utilised a capsule sponge test to collect cell samples for analysis, providing a less invasive alternative to traditional methods.
How does the sponge-on-a-string test work?
Introduced during the pandemic, when healthcare services faced increased pressure and backlog, the capsule sponge test provides a timely solution to diagnostic challenges.
With its ability to be administered swiftly during short appointments without sedation, it has become a valuable tool in managing healthcare demands efficiently.
The capsule sponge test offers a quick and painless alternative to endoscopy, allowing patients to swallow a small capsule-shaped device containing a sponge that collects cell samples for analysis, which is then extracted via a string.
Reduced need for invasive endoscopy
Evaluation of the trial revealed that nearly eight out of ten patients who underwent the capsule sponge test were discharged without the need for further testing.
This reduction in unnecessary endoscopies not only streamlines healthcare resources but also frees up capacity for higher-risk patients and those requiring urgent evaluations for oesophageal cancer.
A subsequent survey of over 350 patients showed high levels of satisfaction, with 94% reporting only mild or no discomfort. This simplicity and comfort contribute to its recommendation by patients to friends and family members.
The evaluation of the NHS trial demonstrated the cost-effectiveness of the capsule sponge test compared to traditional endoscopy methods, saving approximately £400 per patient.
Moreover, early detection of Barrett’s oesophagus, facilitated by this test, is crucial in preventing its progression to oesophageal cancer, which accounts for around 9,300 new cases annually in the UK.
Impact on Barrett’s oesophagus patients
The pilot was conducted across 30 hospital sites in 17 areas of England, including Manchester, Plymouth, London, Kent, and Cumbria, showcasing its widespread adoption and effectiveness.
Notably, the East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, one of the first pilot sites, has conducted around 1,400 capsule sponge tests, identifying Barrett’s oesophagus in 6% of reflux patients and detecting two new cancers along with three cases of dysplasia.
As of January, 368 patients have received positive test results, with approximately half confirming Barrett’s oesophagus.
This underscores the potential of the capsule sponge test in revolutionising early diagnosis and management strategies for oesophageal conditions, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.
By reducing the need for invasive procedures, enhancing patient experience, and enabling early detection, the capsule sponge test emerges as a promising tool in the fight against oesophageal cancer, paving the way for more effective cancer treatment.
