Functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) to study the three-dimensional profile of the human sphincter of Oddi (SO)

Introduction: Currently endoscopic perfusion manometry (ESOM) is the gold standard method to evaluate SO motility. However, in biomechanical terms the ability of the SO to seal, distend or release is related to a numerous factors including three-dimensional muscle tone, passive viscoelasticity (ie. resistance), and propulsive peristalsis evoked by perception of bolus transport, which are could not be assessed by ESOM. Our aims were to develop a new method for functional imaging of the SO and to assess the in vivo distensibility of SO with FLIP in a pilot study. Methods: The FLIP was designed to assess three-dime…