Safety of endoscopic ultrasonography latex balloon use in patients with a latex allergy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS:Balloons are used in endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) to improve visualization. However, data on the safety of latex balloons in patients with latex allergies is limited, and non-latex alternatives can be costly. We aimed to investigate the safety of latex balloon use during EUS. METHODS:A retrospective review was conducted at a tertiary center between 2019-2022. Patients with reported latex allergies who underwent linear EUS were included. Baseline demographics, EUS characteristics, and adverse events were collected. The primary outcome was the rate of adverse events. RESULTS:87 procedures were performed on 57 unique patients (mean age 65.3± 14.5 years). Latex balloons were used in 59 procedures (67.8%), with only 8 procedures (13.6%) using prophylactic medications. No adverse events occurred during or after procedures, regardless of medication use or history of anaphylaxis. CONCLUSIONS:The use of EUS latex balloons in patients with a latex allergy was associated with no adverse events.