Modern diagnosis of GERD: the Lyon Consensus

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: New Insights and Treatment Approaches

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remains a significant global health concern, with increasing prevalence and a substantial impact on quality of life. This narrative review explores recent advances in our understanding of GERD pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. The complex interplay of factors contributing to GERD, including lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction, transient sphincter relaxations, and esophageal motility disorders, is discussed. Emerging diagnostic techniques, such as high-resolution manometry and impedance-pH monitoring, have enhanced our ability to accurately identify and characterize GERD. The review highlights the evolving landscape of GERD treatment, from conventional approaches like lifestyle modifications and proton pump inhibitors to novel strategies including potassium-competitive acid blockers, endoscopic therapies, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. The potential role of the microbiome in GERD pathogenesis and as a therapeutic target is examined. The concept of personalized medicine in GERD management is explored, considering genetic factors, biomarkers, and individual patient profiles. Complications of GERD, including erosive esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma, are reviewed, emphasizing the importance of early detection and appropriate management. The economic burden and impact on the quality of due to GERD are also addressed. This comprehensive review underscores the multifaceted nature of GERD and the need for a personalized, multidisciplinary approach to its management. It highlights ongoing research efforts and emerging therapies that promise to improve outcomes for GERD patients, while also identifying areas requiring further investigation to optimize diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Prognosis of Reflux Symptom Resolution After Bariatric Surgery: How Can Preoperative Esophageal Testing Help?

PURPOSE

The incidence of unresolved postoperative reflux after bariatric surgery varies considerably. Consistent perioperative patient characteristics predictive of unresolved reflux remain unknown. We leverage our institution's comprehensive preoperative esophageal testing to identify predictors of postoperative reflux.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a single-center retrospective review of adult patients with preoperative reflux symptoms who underwent either vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) from 2015 to 2021. All patients had pH and high-resolution manometry preoperatively. Predictors of postoperative unresolved reflux at 1 year were explored via Fisher's exact test, Kruskal Wallis test, and univariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Unresolved reflux was higher in patients undergoing VSG (n = 60/129,46.5%) vs. RYGB (n = 19/98, 19.4%). Median DeMeester scores were higher (22 vs. 13, p = .07) along with rates of ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) (31.6 vs. 8.9%, p = .01) in the 19 (19.3%) patients with unresolved postoperative reflux after RYGB compared to the resolved RYGB reflux cohort. Sixty (46.5%) of VSG patients had unresolved postoperative reflux. The VSG unresolved reflux cohort had similar median DeMeester and IEM incidence to the resolved VSG group but more preoperative dysphagia (13.3% vs. 2.9%, p = .04) and higher preoperative PPI use (56.7 vs. 39.1%, p = .05). In univariate analysis, only IEM was predictive of unresolved reflux after RYGB (OR 4.74, 95% CI 1.37, 16.4).

CONCLUSION

Unresolved reflux was higher after VSG. Preoperative IEM predicted unresolved reflux symptoms after RYGB. In VSG patients, preoperative dysphagia symptoms and PPI use predicted unresolved reflux though lack of correlation to objective testing highlights the subjective nature of symptoms and the challenges in predicting postoperative symptomatology.

Antireflux surgery in patients with gastroesophageal reflux but a negative 24-hour pH study: late outcomes

PURPOSE

Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease often undergo a 24-hour pH test to confirm pathologic reflux before surgery. However, a negative pH test can occur in some individuals with reflux, and a case might still be made for antireflux surgery based on symptoms of reflux even in the absence of endoscopic esophagitis. The long-term outcomes in patients who underwent antireflux surgery despite negative preoperative test results were determined.

METHODS

Patients were selected from a prospective database. A total of 745 patients met the inclusion criteria, which included typical esophageal reflux symptoms, absence of a large hiatus hernia, preoperative 24-hour pH study performed, endoscopy, and postoperative symptom and satisfaction follow-up available at 5 years. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on 24-hour pH study and endoscopy results: negative pH and negative endoscopy (n = 65), negative pH and positive endoscopy (n = 72), and positive pH (n = 608). The negative pH and negative endoscopy group underwent surgery based on clinical assessment and typical esophageal reflux symptoms. Baseline and follow-up outcomes at 5 years were evaluated using 0 to 10 analog scores, which assessed heartburn, dysphagia, and satisfaction with the overall outcome. Data were analyzed to compare the groups.

RESULTS

The groups were well matched for demographics and preoperative symptom scores. At the median 5-year follow-up, clinical outcome scores were similar among the groups for heartburn, dysphagia, and overall satisfaction. The mean heartburn scores were 1.80 in the negative pH and negative endoscopy group, 1.88 in the negative pH and positive endoscopy group, and 1.91 in the positive pH group (P = .663). The mean satisfaction scores were high in all groups: 8.13, 7.31, and 7.72, respectively (P = .293).

CONCLUSION

No difference in clinical outcome scores was observed. The negative pH and negative endoscopy group had high satisfaction scores and low heartburn and dysphagia scores. Our findings support antireflux surgery in well-selected symptomatic patients with a negative preoperative pH test.

High Diagnostic Yield of Abnormal Endoscopic Findings in the Evaluation of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is recommended in patients with typical gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain) in the setting of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) nonresponse. EGD evaluates for erosive disease, assesses antireflux barrier integrity, excludes non-GERD conditions, and, in the absence of erosive findings, is followed by reflux testing.1,2 The diagnostic utility of EGD is less clear in the evaluation for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), and the current reference standard is ambulatory reflux monitoring.1,3,4 This study of patients referred for evaluation of chronic laryngeal symptoms had the following aims: (1) to characterize endoscopic findings, (2) to discern whether findings differed between patients with or without concomitant esophageal reflux symptoms, and (3) to measure the association between endoscopic findings and objective GERD on ambulatory reflux monitoring.

Chronic Cough and Cerebellar Ataxia With Neuropathy and Bilateral Vestibular Areflexia Syndrome (CANVAS): Screening for Mutations in Replication Factor C Subunit 1 (RFC1)

INTRODUCTION

A common complaint in patients is chronic cough (CC), which may be refractory (RCC) or unexplained (UCC). Recent studies point, as a possible cause of CC, to the hereditary cerebellar ataxia with neuropathy and bilateral vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS), with an estimated carrier prevalence of 1 in 20000.

AIM

In patients with CC, determine the prevalence of the biallelic (AAGGG)exp mutation in replication factor C subunit 1 (RFC1) responsible for CANVAS, test the usefulness of the Rydel-Seiffer fork test, and evaluate patient quality of life (QoL).

METHODS

Clinical and functional data were collected for the 33 included patients undergoing CC studies in our specialized unit. Performed were an etiological study of CC following European Respiratory Society recommendations, a genetic study of RFC1 mutations, and Rydel-Seiffer fork testing to detect possible peripheral vibratory sensitivity impairment. Administered to evaluate QoL were 4 questionnaires.

RESULTS

Prevalence of biallelic (AAGGG)exp in RFC1 was 6.1% (n=2) overall, increasing to 7.1% in the RCC subgroup, and to 33.3% in the Rydel-Seiffer fork altered results subgroup. Prevalence of monoallelic (AAGGG)exp in RFC1 was 18.2% (n=6) overall, rising to 50.0% (n=2) in the UCC subgroup.

CONCLUSION

Genetic screening for (AAGGG)exp in RFC1, and also use of the Rydel-Seiffer fork test, should be considered in specialized CC consultations for patients with RCC and UCC. Detecting possible CANVAS symptoms in CC studies would identify candidates for early genetic screening, of interest in reducing the disease burden for patients and health systems alike.

Development of a new endoscopy system to visualize bilirubin for the diagnosis of duodenogastroesophageal reflux

OBJECTIVES

Reflux hypersensitivity (RH) is a form of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease in which duodenogastroesophageal reflux (DGER) plays a role. This study aimed to determine the usefulness of an endoscopy system equipped with image-enhanced technology for evaluating DGER and RH.

METHODS

The image enhancement mode for detecting bilirubin and calculated values were defined as the Bil mode and Bil value, respectively. First, the visibility of the Bil mode was validated for a bilirubin solution and bile concentrations ranging from 0.01% to 100% (0.002-20 mg/dL). Second, visibility scores of the Bil mode, when applied to the porcine esophagus sprayed with a bilirubin solution, were compared to those of the blue laser imaging (BLI) and white light imaging (WLI) modes. Third, a clinical study was conducted to determine the correlations between esophageal Bil values and the number of nonacid reflux events (NNRE) during multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring as well as the utility of esophageal Bil values for the differential diagnosis of RH.

RESULTS

Bilirubin solution and bile concentrations higher than 1% were visualized in red using the Bil mode. The visibility score was significantly higher with the Bil mode than with the BLI and WLI modes for 1% to 6% bilirubin solutions (P < 0.05). The esophageal Bil value and NNRE were significantly positively correlated (P = 0.031). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the differential diagnosis of RH was 0.817.

CONCLUSION

The Bil mode can detect bilirubin with high accuracy and could be used to evaluate DGER in clinical practice.

Piloting an intraoral pH device to track gastroesophageal reflux in adults

This study evaluated in vivo, an intraoral device against the gold standard esophageal device for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) monitoring. Subjects scheduled for a catheter-based esophageal pH/impedance testing at a gastroenterology clinic were recruited. They were screened using the GerdQ questionnaire, demographics and dental conditions recorded. A prototype intraoral device, consisting of a Bravo™ capsule embedded in an Essix-style retainer fabricated for each subject, monitored intraoral pH. Concurrently, subjects underwent 24-h esophageal pH-impedance monitoring. A self-administered survey elicited the comfort and acceptance of both devices. The study recruited ten adult subjects (23 to 60-years-old) with a median GerdQ score of 9.5 corresponding to a 79% likelihood of GERD. Subjects with severe dental erosion had significantly (p < 0.05) higher acid exposure time and more non-meal reflux events. No adverse events were associated with the intraoral device while one was recorded for the esophageal device. The intraoral device was significantly more comfortable to place, more comfortable to wear, and interfered less with daily routine compared to the esophageal device. Accuracy of the intraoral device ranged between 86.15% and 37.82%. Being more tolerable than traditional esophageal pH monitoring, intraoral pH monitoring may be a useful adjunct for the diagnosis and management of GERD.

Impact of Esophageal Motility on Microbiome Alterations in Symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Patients With Negative Endoscopy: Exploring the Role of Ineffective Esophageal Motility and Contraction Reserve

Background/Aims

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is common in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can be associated with poor esophageal contraction reserve on multiple rapid swallows. Alterations in the esophageal microbiome have been reported in GERD, but the relationship to presence or absence of contraction reserve in IEM patients has not been evaluated. We aim to investigate whether contraction reserve influences esophageal microbiome alterations in patients with GERD and IEM.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled GERD patients with normal endoscopy and evaluated esophageal motility and contraction reserve with multiple rapid swallows during high-resolution manometry. The esophageal mucosa was biopsied for DNA extraction and 16S ribosomal RNA gene V3-V4 (Illumina)/full-length (Pacbio) amplicon sequencing analysis.

Results

Among the 56 recruited patients, 20 had normal motility (NM), 19 had IEM with contraction reserve (IEM-R), and 17 had IEM without contraction reserve (IEM-NR). Esophageal microbiome analysis showed a significant decrease in microbial richness in patients with IEM-NR when compared to NM. The beta diversity revealed different microbiome profiles between patients with NM or IEM-R and IEM-NR (P = 0.037). Several esophageal bacterial taxa were characteristic in patients with IEM-NR, including reduced Prevotella spp. and Veillonella dispar, and enriched Fusobacterium nucleatum. In a microbiome-based random forest model for predicting IEM-NR, an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.81 was yielded.

Conclusions

In symptomatic GERD patients with normal endoscopic findings, the esophageal microbiome differs based on contraction reserve among IEM. Absent contraction reserve appears to alter the physiology and microbiota of the esophagus.

A scientometrics analysis and visualization of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease

Background

Refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (refractory GERD) is a heterogeneous disease characterized by unresponsiveness or poor efficacy to proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). This chronic disorder substantially weakens patients' mental wellbeing and quality of life, increasing the financial burden on society. Multiple articles have been reported in this area. However, literature involving scientometric analysis of refractory GERD is absent. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the evolution of research themes and the main hotspots of refractory GERD through bibliometric methods.

Methods

All documents related to refractory GERD based on the WOS Core Collection from January 2000 to November 2023 were selected for analysis. Citespace V 6.1 R6, VOSviewer V 1.6.20, and Scimago Graphica V 1.0.38 were used to perform bibliometric analysis.

Results

We collected a total of 241 research articles from 36 countries and 322 institutions, contributed by over 1,000 authors. Over the last 20 years, the number of articles in this field has increased year by year, and since 2011, the number of publications has increased dramatically, with 85.89% of the papers. These countries are led by the United States and Japan. GUT had the highest number of citations and DIGESTION had the highest number of publications. Research on standardized diagnosis and management, mechanisms, novel monitoring methods, and innovative drugs and procedures for refractory GERD are the main topics and hotspots in this field. This study also found that neuroimmune interaction is closely related to refractory GERD, which may be a new direction for future mechanism research.

Conclusion

Our study is the first bibliometric analysis of the global literature on refractory GERD. This research provides valuable insights for researchers, enabling them to quickly understand the research frontier and hot topics of this field.

Roles of Cytokines in Pathological and Physiological Gastroesophageal Reflux Exposure

Background/Aims

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is frequently observed and has no definitive treatment. There are 2 main views on the pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The first is that epithelial damage starts from the mucosa by acidic-peptic damage and the inflammatory response of granulocytes. The other view is that T-lymphocytes attract chemoattractants from the basal layer to the mucosa, and granulocytes do not migrate until damage occurs. We aim to investigate the inflammatory processes occurring in the esophageal epithelium of the phenotypes at the molecular level. We also examined the effects of these changes on tissue integrity.

Methods

Patients with mild and severe erosive reflux, nonerosive reflux, reflux hypersensitivity, and functional heartburn were included. Inflammatory gene expressions (JAK/STAT Signaling and NFKappaB Primer Libraries), chemokine protein levels, and tissue integrity were examined in the esophageal biopsies.

Results

There was chronic inflammation in the severe erosion group, the acute response was also triggered. In the mild erosion group, these 2 processes worked together, but homeostatic cytokines were also secreted. In nonerosive groups, T-lymphocytes were more dominant. In addition, the inflammatory response was highly triggered in the reflux hypersensitivity and functional heartburn groups, and it was associated with physiological reflux exposure and sensitivity.

Conclusions

"Microinflammation" in physiological acid exposure groups indicates that even a mild trigger is sufficient for the initiation and progression of inflammatory activity. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory cytokines were highly increased. The results may have a potential role in the treatment of heartburn symptoms and healing of the mucosa.

Esophageal Mucosal Impedance Assessment for the Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Background/Aims

Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is sometimes challenging because the performance of available tests is not entirely satisfactory. This study aims to directly measure the esophageal mucosal impedance during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for the diagnosis of GERD.

Methods

Sixty participants with typical symptoms of GERD underwent high-resolution esophageal manometry, 24-hour multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and mucosal impedance measurement. Mucosal impedance measurement was performed at 2, 5, 10, and 18 cm above the esophagogastric junction during gastrointestinal endoscopy using a specific catheter developed based on devices described in the literature over the last decade. The patients were divided into groups A (acid exposure time < 4%) and B (acid exposure time ≥ 4%).

Results

The mucosal impedance was significantly lower in group B at 2 cm (2264.4 Ω ± 1099.0 vs 4575.0 Ω ± 1407.6 [group A]) and 5 cm above the esophagogastric junction (4221.2 Ω ± 2623.7 vs 5888.2 Ω ± 2529.4 [group A]). There was no significant difference in the mucosal impedance between the 2 groups at 10 cm and 18 cm above the esophagogastric junction. Mucosal impedance value at 2 cm > 2970 Ω resulted in a sensitivity of 96.4% and a specificity of 87.5% to exclude GERD.

Conclusions

Direct measurement of mucosal impedance during endoscopy is a simple and promising method for diagnosing GERD. Individuals with an abnormal acid exposure time have lower mucosal impedance measurements than those with a normal acid exposure time.

Mean nocturnal baseline impedance in gastro-esophageal reflux disease diagnosis: Should we strictly follow the Lyon 2 Consensus?

Clinical practice guidelines drive clinical practice and clinicians rely to them when trying to answer their most common questions. One of the most important position papers in the field of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the one produced by the Lyon Consensus. Recently an updated second version has been released. Mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) was proposed by the first Consensus to act as supportive evidence for GERD diagnosis. Originally a cut-off of 2292 Ohms was proposed, a value revised in the second edition. The updated Consensus recommended that an MNBI < 1500 Ohms strongly suggests GERD while a value > 2500 Ohms can be used to refute GERD. The proposed cut-offs move in the correct direction by diminishing the original cut-off, nevertheless they arise from a study of normal subjects where cut-offs were provided by measuring the mean value ± 2SD and not in symptomatic patients. However, data exist that even symptomatic patients with inconclusive disease or reflux hypersensitivity (RH) show lower MNBI values in comparison to normal subjects or patients with functional heartburn (FH). Moreover, according to the data, MNBI, even among symptomatic patients, is affected by age and body mass index. Also, various studies have proposed different cut-offs by using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis even lower than the one proposed. Finally, no information is given for patients submitted to on-proton pump inhibitors pH-impedance studies even if new and extremely important data now exist. Therefore, even if MNBI is an extremely important tool when trying to approach patients with reflux symptoms and could distinguish conclusive GERD from RH or FH, its values should be interpreted with caution.

Multicentric short term and safety study of ineffective esophageal motility patients treated with RefluxStop device

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) presents a general health problem with a variety of symptoms and an impairment of life quality. Conservative therapies do not offer sufficient symptom relief in up to 30% of patients. Patients who suffer from ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) and also GERD may exhibit symptoms ranging from mild to severe. In cases where surgical intervention becomes necessary for this diverse group of patients, it is important to consider the potential occurrence of postoperative dysphagia. RefluxStop is a new alternative anti-reflux surgery potentially reducing postoperative dysphagia rates. In this bicentric tertiary hospital observational study consecutive patients diagnosed with PPI refractory GERD and IEM that received RefluxStop implantation were included. A first safety and efficacy evaluation including clinical examination and GERD-HRQL questionnaire was conducted. 40 patients (25 male and 15 female) were included. 31 patients (77.5%) were on PPI at time of surgery, with mean acid exposure time of 8.14% ± 2.53. The median hospital stay was 3 days. Postoperative QoL improved significantly measured by GERD HRQL total score from 32.83 ± 5.08 to 6.6 ± 3.71 (p < 0.001). A 84% reduction of PPI usage (p < 0.001) was noted. 36 patients (90%) showed gone or improved symptoms and were satisfied at first follow-up. Two severe adverse events need mentioning: one postoperative slipping of the RefluxStop with need of immediate revisional operation on the first postoperative day (Clavien-Dindo Score 3b) and one device migration with no necessary further intervention. RefluxStop device implantation is safe and efficient in the short term follow up in patients with GERD and IEM. Further studies and longer follow-up are necessary to prove long-lasting positive effects.

Concurrent abnormal non-acid reflux is associated with additional chronic rejection risk in lung transplant patients with increased acid exposure

Acid reflux has been associated with allograft injury and rejection in lung transplant patients; however, the pathogenic role of non-acid reflux remains debated. We aimed to evaluate the impact of concurrent abnormal non-acid reflux with acid reflux on chronic rejection in lung transplant patients with acid reflux. This was a retrospective cohort study of lung transplant recipients who underwent pre-transplant combined impedance-pH study off acid suppression. Only subjects with acid exposure >4% were included. Non-acid reflux (pH > 4) episodes >27 was considered abnormal per prior normative studies. Chronic rejection was defined as chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) per International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation criteria. Time-to-event analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazards and Kaplan-Maier methods, with censoring at death, anti-reflux surgery, or last follow-up. In total, 68 subjects (28 abnormal/40 normal non-acid reflux) met inclusion criteria for the study. Baseline demographic/clinical characteristics were similar between groups. Among this cohort of patients with increased acid exposure, subjects with concurrent abnormal non-acid reflux had significantly higher risk of CLAD than those without on Kaplan-Meier analysis (log-ranked P = 0.0269). On Cox multivariable regression analysis controlling for body mass index, age at transplantation, and proton pump inhibitor use, concurrent abnormal non-acid reflux remained independently predictive of increased CLAD risk (hazard ratio 2.31, confidence interval: 1.03-5.19, P = 0.04). Presence of concurrent abnormal non-acid reflux in lung transplant subjects with increased acid exposure is associated with additional risk of chronic rejection. Non-acid reflux may also contribute to pathogenicity in lung allograft injury/rejection, supporting a potential role for impedance-based testing in this population.

Integrative Approaches to Managing Gut Health

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize key integrative approaches to managing common gastrointestinal conditions.

RECENT FINDINGS

Lifestyle interventions like diet, exercise, and stress reduction impact the gut microbiome and gastrointestinal symptoms. Evidence supports mind-body therapies, herbs, certain supplements, and other modalities as complimentary approaches, when appropriate, for common conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or gastroesophageal reflux disease. An integrative approach optimizes both conventional treatments and incorporates lifestyle modifications, complimentary modalities, and the doctor-patient relationship.

Update on extraesophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Symptoms/complications related to extraesophageal reflux (EER) are increasingly prevalent presentations and pose significant challenges for clinicians. We summarize and discuss clinical advances and developments in pathophysiology, testing and treatment algorithms of upper/lower airway manifestations of EER.

RECENT FINDINGS

Growing evidence supports likely multifactorial causes of laryngeal symptoms, including EER, oropharyngeal pathologies, allergic conditions, and cognitive-affective processes (brain-larynx interaction). Diagnostic paradigm for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is shifting towards a personalized approach with noninvasive strategies/prediction tools to risk-stratify patients for upfront reflux testing over empiric acid suppression trials. Management should be multipronged to include antireflux therapies and treatments targeting other causes. Lower airway complications of EER may result in lung dysfunction and poor transplant outcomes. Esophageal symptoms are often absent and routine esophageal/reflux testing to guide timely antireflux therapies may lead to improved outcomes. Modalities that leverage impedance technology may be important, given the potential role of nonacidic reflux. Novel impedance-based metrics such as mean nocturnal baseline impedance and postreflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index may provide adjunctive diagnostic values.

SUMMARY

Standardized approach to diagnosis/management of EER should include multidisciplinary care teams and consider different phenotypes, nonreflux contributors, and the complex gut-airway relationships. Prompt antireflux therapies after careful candidate selection may improve outcomes of these airway complications.

Manometric esophagogastric junction barrier metrics as predictors of gastroesophageal reflux

BACKGROUND

High-resolution manometry (HRM) tools, like esophagogastric junction contractile integral (EGJ-CI), assess EGJ barrier function.

GOALS

This study aimed to evaluate the relationships between manometric EGJ metrics with esophageal acid exposure.

STUDY

We conducted a retrospective review of 284 patients who underwent HRM and ambulatory reflux testing between 11/2017-1/2020. EGJ-CI and total-EGJ-CI were manually calculated. Pathologic acid exposure was defined as pH  < 4 with esophageal acid exposure time (EAET) exceeding 6.0%. Pearson's correlation, univariable and multivariable regression models were utilized to assess the relationships between pathologic acid exposure and EGJ parameters. Sensitivity and specificity thresholds for EGJ-CI and total EGJ-CI were optimized with ROC analyses.

RESULTS

On univariable analysis, patients with pathologic acid exposure had increased odds of having lower mean basal LES pressures, EGJ-CI, and total EGJ-CI than patients without pathologic acid exposure. On multivariable analysis, age, EGJ-CI and mean DCI were significant predictors of pathologic acid exposure. There were significant, though weak, correlations between EAET and EGJ-CI and total EGJ-CI (r =  - 0.18,  - 0.19, p < 0.01, respectively). An EGJ-CI cutoff of 44.16 as a predictor for pathologic acid exposure had a sensitivity of 46% and specificity of 42% (AUC 0.60). Total EGJ-CI cutoff of 11,461.3 for pathologic acid exposure had a sensitivity of 44% and a specificity of 43% (AUC 0.62).

CONCLUSION

EGJ-CI can independently predict pathologic acid exposure. However, the poor correlation between EGJ-CI and acid exposure, as well as the low sensitivity and specificity of calculated thresholds, indicate that mechanisms other than EGJ barrier function may impact acid exposure.

In females, salivary secretion was significantly lower in patients with severe reflux esophagitis than in healthy controls

BACKGROUND

The salivary secretion in patients with mild reflux esophagitis (RE) and non-erosive reflux disease is significantly lower in females, but not in males. However, sex differences in salivary secretion in patients with severe RE remain unknown. Therefore, the present study investigated sex differences in saliva secretion in patients with severe RE.

METHODS

Subjects consisted of 23 male patients with severe RE, 24 male healthy controls (HCs), 26 female patients with severe RE, and 25 female HCs. Saliva secretion was assessed as follows: each patient chewed sugarless gum for 3 min prior to endoscopy, and the amount and pH of saliva secreted before and after acid loading as an index of the acid-buffering capacity were measured.

RESULTS

In males, no significant differences were observed in the amount of saliva secretion, salivary pH, or the acid-buffering capacity between severe RE patients and HCs. In females, the amount of saliva secretion (severe RE: 2.4 [1.8-4.1], HCs: 5.3 [3.4-7.5], p = 0.0017), salivary pH (severe RE: 7.0 [6.7-7.3], HCs: 7.2 [7.1-7.3], p = 0.0455), and the acid-buffering capacity (severe RE: 5.9 [5.3-6.2], HCs: 6.2 [6.1-6.5], p = 0.0024) were significantly lower in severe RE patients than in HCs.

CONCLUSION

Among females, the salivary secretion was significantly lower in severe RE patients than in HCs. This reduction in salivary secretion may contribute to the pathophysiology of severe RE in females.

Efficacy of different endoscopic treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There are no direct comparisons across different endoscopic therapies for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This study aimed to evaluate the relative effects of different endoscopic therapies in GERD.

METHODS

Five databases were searched until August 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the efficacy of endoscopic band ligation (EBL), Stretta, endoscopic fundoplication (transoral incisionless fundoplication [TIF], endoscopic full-thickness plication [EFTP], and EndoCinch plication procedure [EndoCinch, CR BARD, Billerica, Mass., USA]), or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)/sham procedure for GERD. Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 19 trials comprising 1181 patients were included. EBL (mean difference [MD], -7.75; 95% credible interval [CrI], -13.90 to -1.44), Stretta (MD, -9.86; 95% CrI, -19.05 to -0.58), and TIF (MD, -12.58; 95% CrI, -20.23 to -4.91) all significantly improved patients' health-related quality of life score with equivalent efficacy compared with PPIs. TIF and EBL achieved equivalent efficacy in reducing PPIs utility (risk ratio [RR], 0.66; 95% CrI, 0.40-1.05) and both were significantly superior to other endoscopic interventions (Stretta, EFTP, and EndoCinch). Besides, EBL and TIF also could significantly decrease the esophagitis incidence compared with PPIs (EBL [RR, 0.34; 95% CrI, 0.22-0.48] and TIF [RR, 0.38; 95% CrI, 0.15-0.88]). In terms of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, only TIF could significantly increase the LES pressure (MD, 6.53; 95% CrI, 3.65-9.40) to PPIs. In contrast, TIF was inferior to PPIs in decreasing esophageal acid exposure (MD, 2.57; 95% CrI, 0.77-4.36).

CONCLUSION

Combining the evidence, EBL and TIF may have comparable efficacy and both might be superior to Stretta, EFTP, or EndoCinch in GERD treatment.

Utility of the Post-Reflux Swallow-Induced Peristaltic Wave Index and Mean Nocturnal Baseline Impedance for the Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Phenotypes in Children

(1) Objectives: Assessment of novel impedance parameters such as the post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) have been proposed to enhance the accuracy of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) diagnosis. We aimed to evaluate the clinical value of MNBI and the PSPW index in discerning different phenotypes of GERD in children. (2) Methods: We conducted a prospective, observational study that included 49 children aged 5-18 years, referred for MII-pH monitoring due to negative endoscopy and persisting gastroesophageal reflux symptoms despite acid-suppressant treatment. The PSPW index and MNBI were assessed along with conventional metrics. (3) Results: Using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, MNBI (AUC 0.864) and the PSPW index (AUC 0.83) had very good performance in differentiating between non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) and functional phenotypes. The PSPW index (AUC 0.87) discriminated better between functional heartburn (FH) and reflux hypersensitivity (RH) compared to the MNBI (AUC 0.712). A PSPW cut-off value of 65% provided a sensitivity of 76.9% and a specificity of 90% in distinguishing FH and RH. The PSPW index (AUC 0.87) proved to have better performance than the MNBI (AUC 0.802) in differentiating between FH and non-FH patients. MNBI diagnosed FH with a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 80.6% at a cut-off value of 2563 Ω. (4) Conclusions: The PSPW index and MNBI are useful to distinguish between GERD phenotypes in pediatric patients.

Gastroesophageal reflux after per-oral endoscopic myotomy: Management literature

In this editorial, we respond to a review article by Nabi et al, in which the authors discussed gastroesophageal reflux (GER) following peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). POEM is presently the primary therapeutic option for achalasia, which is both safe and effective. A few adverse effects were documented after POEM, including GER. The diagnostic criteria were not clear enough because approximately 60% of patients have a long acid exposure time, while only 10% experience reflux symptoms. Multiple predictors of high disease incidence have been identified, including old age, female sex, obesity, and a baseline lower esophageal sphincter pressure of less than 45 mmHg. Some technical steps during the procedure, such as a lengthy or full-thickness myotomy, may further enhance the risk. Proton pump inhibitors are currently the first line of treatment. Emerging voices are increasingly advocating for the routine combining of POEM with an endoscopic fundoplication method, such as peroral endoscopic fundoplication or transoral incisionless fundoplication. However, more research is necessary to determine the safety and effectiveness of these procedures in the long term for patients who have undergone them.

The Utility of Novel pH-Impedance Monitoring Parameters (PSPW Index and MNBI) in Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Phenotypes-A Systematic Review

Background/Objectives: Researchers have proposed two novel impedance-pH parameters, mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) and the post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index, to enhance the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and enable better predictions of the effectiveness of anti-reflux therapies. This systematic review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the utility of the PSPW index and MNBI as diagnostic tools for pediatric GERD. Methods: A systematic search of studies reporting PSPW index and MNBI values in patients with GERD was performed in PubMed, Embase, Clarivate, Scopus, Cochrane and Google Scholar databases from their beginning until April 2024. The following terms were used: GERD, children, pediatric, PSPW and MNBI. Results: Eight studies were included, describing 479 patients ranging from 2 months to 17 years old over an 8-year period in 12 pediatric centers. Four studies demonstrated that children with pathological acid exposure have a significantly lower MNBI, with a good discriminatory ability to diagnose GERD. The PSPW index showed lower values in patients with reflux hypersensitivity (RH) compared to those with functional heartburn (FH). Conclusions: Patients with pathological acid exposure tend to exhibit lower MNBI and PSPW index values compared to those with normal acid exposure. MNBI and the PSPW index show promise as diagnostic tools in distinguishing between different GERD phenotypes. Further research is needed to establish standardized diagnostic criteria and optimize the clinical applicability in GERD diagnosis and management.

How to diagnose GERC more effectively: reflections on post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index and mean nocturnal baseline impedance

INTRODUCTION

Post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index (PSPWI) and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) are novel parameters reflect esophageal clearance capacity and mucosal integrity. They hold potential in aiding the recognition of gastroesophageal reflux-induced chronic cough (GERC). Our study aims to investigate their diagnostic value in GERC.

METHODS

This study included patients suspected GERC. General information and relevant laboratory examinations were collected, and final diagnosis were determined following guidelines for chronic cough. The parameters of multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring (MII-pH) in patients were analyzed and compared to explore their diagnostic value in GERC.

RESULTS

A total of 186 patients were enrolled in this study. The diagnostic value of PSPWI for GERC was significant, with the area under the working curve (AUC) of 0.757 and a cutoff value of 39.4%, which was not statistically different from that of acid exposure time (AET) (p > 0.05). The combined diagnostic value of AET > 4.4% and PSPWI < 39.4% was superior to using AET > 4.4% alone (p < 0.05). Additionally, MNBI and distal MNBI also contributed to the diagnosis of GERC, with AUC values of 0.639 and 0.624, respectively. AET > 4.4% or PSPWI < 39.4% is associated with a 44% reduction in missed diagnoses of non-acid GERC compared to AET > 6.0% or symptom association probability (SAP) ≥ 95%, and may be more favorable for identifying GERC.

CONCLUSION

The diagnostic value of PSPWI for GERC is comparable to that of AET. Combining PSPWI < 39.4% or AET > 4.4% can improve the diagnostic efficiency by reducing the risk of missed diagnoses in cases where non-acid reflux is predominant. Distal MNBI and MNBI can serve as secondary reference indices in the diagnosis of GERC.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a two-sample Mendelian randomization combined with meta-analysis

Accumulating evidence from observational studies have suggested an association between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, due to that such studies are prone to biases, we imported Mendelian randomization (MR) to explore whether the causal association between two diseases exsit. Hence, we aimed to analysis the potential association with MR. The single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of GERD were retrieved from the genome-wide association study dataset as the exposure. The SNPs of NAFLD were taken from the FinnGen dataset as the outcome. The relationship was analyzed with the assistance of inverse variance weighted, MR-Egger, and weighted median. We also uitilized the MR-Egger intercept, Cochran's Q test, leave-one-out analysis, MR-PRESSO, and Steiger directionality test to evaluate the robustness of the causal association. The meta-analysis were also implemented to give an overall evaluation. Finally, our analysis showed a causal relationship between GERD and NAFLD with aid of MR and meta-analysis (OR 1.71 95% CI 1.40-2.09; P < 0.0001).

Does the presence of an esophageal motor disorder influence the response to anti-reflux mucosectomy (ARMS) for refractory GERD?

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of esophageal motor disorders (EMD) in PPI-refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is substantial. However, limited data exist on their impact on the efficacy of endoscopic treatments like anti-reflux mucosectomy (ARMS). This study aimed to evaluate the influence of EMD on ARMS efficacy in patients with PPI-refractory GERD.

METHOD

This single-center retrospective study enrolled patients with refractory GERD treated with ARMS-b (anti-reflux mucosectomy band-ligation). High-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) was conducted before the procedure to identify EMD presence. The primary endpoint was treatment efficacy, defined as >50% improvement in GERD-HRQL score at 1 year. Secondary endpoints included PPI intake, symptom control, ARMS complications, and overall patient satisfaction at 12 months.

RESULTS

The study included 65 patients, with 41 (63.1%) showing EMD on HREM. Treatment efficacy was achieved by 33.8% (22) of patients, with 8 without EMD, 11 having isolated LES hypotonia, and 3 with both LES hypotonia and esophageal body motor disorder. No significant differences were observed between patients with and without EMD regarding the primary endpoint, PPI use, symptom control, or complications. Dysphagia developed in 52.3% (34) within 6 months, leading to esophageal dilatation in 15.3% (10). Two patients experienced acute hemorrhage, and one had perforation.

CONCLUSION

The presence of esophageal motor disorders does not seem to impact ARMS response, suggesting the technique's consideration in this population. Larger studies are essential for confirming these results and exploring treatment response and post-operative predictors.

Association of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease with erosive esophagitis development: a longitudinal observational study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Although erosive esophagitis (EE) is associated with fatty liver and metabolic dysregulation, the association between EE and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) remains unclear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between MASLD and EE.

METHODS

We included 1578 patients without EE at baseline who underwent more than two health checkups over 2 years. Generalized estimation equations were used to analyze associations between MASLD and EE according to repeated measures at baseline and most recent stages.

RESULTS

EE development rates in men and women were 14.5% and 7.2%, respectively. After adjusting for lifestyle habits, the odds ratios of MASLD for EE development in men and women were 1.907 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.289-2.832, P < 0.005) and 1.483 (95% CI: 0.783-2.811, P = 0.227), respectively. In the subgroup analysis, after adjusting for lifestyle habits, among men and women aged ≥50 years with more than three MASLD components, the odds ratios for EE development were 2.408 (95% CI: 1.505-3.855, P < 0.001) and 2.148 (95% CI: 1.093-4.221, P < 0.05), respectively. After adjusting for various factors, the significant risk factors for EE development were different between men and women.

CONCLUSION

The influence of MASLD and other factors on EE development differed by sex and age. Particularly, patients aged ≥50 years with MASLD and with an increased number of MASLD components should be considered at increased risk for EE.

Enhanced Runge-Kutta-driven feature selection model for early detection of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) profoundly compromises the quality of life, with prolonged untreated cases posing a heightened risk of severe complications such as esophageal injury and esophageal carcinoma. The imperative for early diagnosis is paramount in averting progressive pathological developments. This study introduces a wrapper-based feature selection model based on the enhanced Runge Kutta algorithm (SCCRUN) and fuzzy k-nearest neighbors (FKNN) for GERD prediction, named bSCCRUN-FKNN-FS. Runge Kutta algorithm (RUN) is a metaheuristic algorithm designed based on the Runge-Kutta method. However, RUN's effectiveness in local search capabilities is insufficient, and it exhibits insufficient convergence accuracy. To enhance the convergence accuracy of RUN, spiraling communication and collaboration (SCC) is introduced. By facilitating information exchange among population individuals, SCC expands the solution search space, thereby improving convergence accuracy. The optimization capabilities of SCCRUN are experimentally validated through comparisons with classical and state-of-the-art algorithms on the IEEE CEC 2017 benchmark. Subsequently, based on SCCRUN, the bSCCRUN-FKNN-FS model is proposed. During the period from 2019 to 2023, a dataset comprising 179 cases of GERD, including 110 GERD patients and 69 healthy individuals, was collected from Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital. This dataset was utilized to compare our proposed model against similar algorithms in order to evaluate its performance. Concurrently, it was determined that features such as the internal diameter of the esophageal hiatus during distention, esophagogastric junction diameter during distention, and external diameter of the esophageal hiatus during non-distention play crucial roles in influencing GERD prediction. Experimental findings demonstrate the outstanding performance of the proposed model, with a predictive accuracy reaching as high as 93.824 %. These results underscore the significant advantage of the proposed model in both identifying and predicting GERD patients.

The impact of lung transplantation on esophageal motility and inter-relationships with reflux and lung mechanics in patients with restrictive and obstructive respiratory disease

BACKGROUND

For many patients with lung disease the only proven intervention to improve survival and quality of life is lung transplantation (LTx). Esophageal dysmotility and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) are common in patients with respiratory disease, and often associate with worse prognosis following LTx. Which, if any patients, should be excluded from LTx based on esophageal concerns remains unclear. Our aim was to understand the effect of LTx on esophageal motility diagnosis and examine how this and the other physiological and mechanical factors relate to GER and clearance of boluses swallowed.

METHODS

We prospectively recruited 62 patients with restrictive (RLD) and obstructive (OLD) lung disease (aged 33-75 years; 42 men) who underwent high resolution impedance manometry and 24-h pH-impedance before and after LTx.

KEY RESULTS

RLD patients with normal motility were more likely to remain normal (p = 0.02), or if having abnormal motility to change to normal (p = 0.07) post-LTx than OLD patients. Esophageal length (EL) was greater in OLD than RLD patients' pre-LTx (p < 0.001), reducing only in OLD patients' post-LTx (p = 0.02). Reduced EL post-LTx associated with greater contractile reserve (r = 0.735; p = 0.01) and increased likelihood of motility normalization (p = 0.10). Clearance of reflux improved (p = 0.01) and associated with increased mean nocturnal baseline impedance (p < 0.001) in RLD but not OLD. Peristaltic breaks and thoraco-abdominal pressure gradient impact both esophageal clearance of reflux and boluses swallowed (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

RLD patients are more likely to show improvement in esophageal motility than OLD patients post-LTx. However, the effect on GER is more difficult to predict and requires other GI, anatomical and pulmonary factors to be taken into consideration.

Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease predicts low voltage zones in the posteroinferior left atrium in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation

Background

The presence of low voltage zones (LVZs) in the left atrium (LA) is associated with the recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after pulmonary vein isolation. Numerous studies have posited a link between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and AF, attributing this relationship to the anatomical proximity of the esophagus to the posteroinferior wall of the LA.

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate whether GERD can predict the presence of LVZs in the posteroinferior wall of the LA.

Methods

Five hundred fifty-one patients with persistent AF, scheduled for their first AF ablation procedure, were prospectively enrolled. Voltage maps were collected using a multipolar catheter, and LVZs were defined as areas measuring ≥3 cm2 with a peak-to-peak bipolar voltage of <0.5 mV. Information on GERD symptoms was collected from the participants through a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

Long-standing persistent AF was present in 22.3% of the total cohort. GERD was present in 29% of patients and LVZs in the posteroinferior wall in 12.7%. In the multivariable analysis, patients with GERD were found to have more than twice the odds (odds ratio 2.26; 95% confidence interval 1.24-4.13; P = .008) of exhibiting LVZs in the posteroinferior wall of the LA than patients without GERD. GERD was not associated with LVZs in any other region of the LA.

Conclusion

GERD was found to be independently associated with LVZs in the posteroinferior LA. This association may be attributable to inflammation and may partly explain the link between GERD and AF.

Pilot study on anti-reflux mucoplasty: Advancing endoscopic anti-reflux therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease

OBJECTIVES

Anti-reflux mucosectomy (ARMS) and anti-reflux mucosal ablation (ARMA) were developed as interventions for proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-refractory/-dependent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although ARMS and ARMA are established treatments for PPI-refractory GERD, reliance on natural healing for ulcer scar formation introduces uncertainty and bleeding risk. To address these issues, we introduced a novel approach called anti-reflux mucoplasty (ARM-P), which involves immediate closure of mucosal defects following mucosectomy. This pilot study aims to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of ARM-P.

METHODS

A retrospective single-center study was conducted using prospectively collected data from October 2022 to July 2023. Patients with PPI-refractory/-dependent GERD who underwent ARM-P were included. The study evaluated technical success of ARM-P, before and after ARM-P GERD-Health Related Quality of Life Questionnaire, GerdQ, and Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of GERD scores, along with PPI discontinuation and endoscopic esophagogastric junction morphology.

RESULTS

A total of 20 patients with a median age of 61.5 years underwent the ARM-P procedure. The procedure achieved 100% technical success without adverse events. After ARM-P, 55.0% discontinued PPI usage and 15.0% reduced PPI dose by half. Median GERD-Health Related Quality of Life Questionnaire score improved from 21 to 6 (P = 0.0026), median GerdQ score improved from 9 to 7 (P = 0.0022), and median Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of GERD score decreased from 16 to 7 (P = 0.0003). Median Hill's Classification significantly improved from grade III to grade I (P = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents the first pilot report of ARM-P, demonstrating its procedural safety, technical feasibility, and short-term efficacy.

Evaluating the Effect of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease on Postoperative Dysphagia Following Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery-A Prospective, Multicenter Study

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate the impact of a preoperative diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease on the incidence and severity of postoperative dysphagia in a multicenter population.

METHODS

After Institutional Review Board approval, written informed consent was obtained from all participating patients. Patients over 18 years of age who underwent an elective anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for a degenerative condition were prospectively enrolled at two academic centers from the years 2018 to 2020. Patients were separated into two groups: those with and without a preoperative diagnosis of GERD. Continuous variables were assessed using either an independent t-test or Mann Whitney U-test for parametric and non-parametric data. All categorical variables were compared using a chi-square test.

RESULTS

A total of 116 patients met study criteria and were subsequently enrolled. Overall rates of postoperative dysphagia increased to 47.3% (n = 53) at 2-weeks but eventually decreased towards the preoperative prevalence of 25.0% at the 24-week mark. Patients with preoperative diagnosis of GERD had lower dysphagia severity scores on a continuous variable analysis in both the DSQ and EAT-10 surveys at 2-week follow-up in addition to the Bazaz survey at 24-week follow-up. Our follow up at 24-weeks was 85.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that having a preoperative diagnosis of GERD has no significant effect on the incidence of dysphagia following ACDF. Nevertheless, having a preoperative diagnosis of GERD does seem to provide some protective effect on the severity of dysphagia that this patient population develops at multiple intervals over a 24-week postoperative period.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease and atrial fibrillation: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study

Background: In observational studies, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is linked to atrial fibrillation (AF). It is uncertain whether the relationship is due to GERD-induced AF or GERD caused by AF, or confusion with factors related to GERD and AF such as obesity and sleep-disordered breathing. We applied bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR), in which genetic variations are used as instrumental variables to resolve confounding and reverse causation issues, to determine the causal effect between GERD and AF. Methods: Using summary data from the GERD and AF genome-wide association study (GWAS), a bidirectional MR was performed to estimate the causative impact of GERD on AF risk and AF on GERD risk. The GWAS of GERD meta-analysis comprised 78707 cases and 288734 controls. GWAS summary data for AF, including 45766 AF patients and 191924 controls, were used to genetically predicted AF. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was the major MR approach used. MR-PRESSO was implemented to detect heterogeneity and correct the effect of outliers. Weighted median and MR-Egger regression were applied to test heterogeneity and pleiotropy. Results: The genetic instruments of GERD related to increasing the risk of AF, with an OR of 1.339 (95% CI: 1.242-1.444, p < 0.001). However, after removing the outlier 8 SNPs, genetically predicted AF was not associated with an elevated risk of GERD (p = 0.351). Conclusions: Our result suggested that GERD had a causal effect on AF. However, no evidence was identified that AF elevated the risk of GERD.

Efficacy and safety of tegoprazan in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: A protocol for meta-analysis and systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is increasing year by year, the clinical manifestations are complex and diverse, and the adverse effects of long-term use of proton pump inhibitors and gastrointestinal motility drugs have been of great concern in recent years. The effectiveness of tegoprazan in the treatment of GERD is still controversial. This protocol describes a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tegoprazan in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science will be searched from the database inception to 1 March 2023. All randomized controlled trials related to tegoprazan for GERD will be included. Extracted data will include publication details, basic information, demographic data, intervention details and patient outcomes. The primary outcome will be complete resolution of major symptoms, complete resolution of heartburn, proportion of heartburn-free days, chronic cough, hoarseness, and adverse events. Risk of bias will be assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. Article selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment will be performed in duplicate by two independent reviewers. If the meta-analysis is precluded, we will conduct a descriptive synthesis using a best-evidence synthesis approach.

DISCUSSION

The results of this study will provide reliable evidence to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tegoprazan in the treatment of GERD and help patients, physicians and clinical investigators choose the most appropriate treatment.

Endoscopic pressure study integrated system for the diagnosis of achalasia

OBJECTIVES

The endoscopic pressure study integrated system (EPSIS) is a novel diagnostic tool used to evaluate lower esophageal sphincter (LES) function. EPSIS allows the measurement of intragastric pressure (IGP) during gastric insufflation through esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and records its pressure waveform. This study aimed to assess the usefulness and applicability of EPSIS as an adjunct diagnostic modality for achalasia.

METHODS

This case-control study was conducted using a database of patients who underwent EGD, barium swallow (BS), high-resolution manometry (HRM), and EPSIS between January 2022 and December 2022. The achalasia (experimental) group (n = 35) consisted of patients with a definitive diagnosis of achalasia. The control group (n = 34) consisted of patients with no abnormalities in EGD, BS, or HRM and no abnormal acid reflux confirmed with 24-h pH-impedance monitoring. EPSIS findings were compared between the two groups and characterized by the waveform pattern (uphill or flat), maximum IGP (IGP-Max), pressure difference, and the gradient of the waveform.

RESULTS

All patients in the achalasia group showed an uphill pattern, in contrast to 21 patients (61.8%) in the control group. IGP-Max demonstrated the best diagnostic accuracy for achalasia, with a cut-off value of 15.8 mmHg (100% sensitivity, 58.8% specificity, and area under the curve [AUC] 0.78). The pressure gradient also demonstrated good diagnostic accuracy, with a cut-off value of 0.40 mmHg/s (80% sensitivity, 61.8% specificity, and AUC 0.76).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that EPSIS can be applied as a diagnostic modality in patients with achalasia.

Saliva Production and Esophageal Motility Influence Esophageal Acid Clearance Related to Post-reflux Swallow-Induced Peristaltic Wave

BACKGROUND

The post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) brings salivary bicarbonate to neutralize residual distal esophageal mucosal acidification.

AIMS

To determine if reduced saliva production and esophageal body hypomotility would compromise PSPW-induced pH recovery in the distal esophagus.

METHODS

In this multicenter retrospective cross-sectional study, patients with confirmed Sjogren's syndrome and scleroderma/mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) who underwent high resolution manometry (HRM) and ambulatory pH-impedance monitoring off antisecretory therapy were retrospectively identified. Patients without these disorders undergoing HRM and pH-impedance monitoring for GERD symptoms were identified from the same time-period. Acid exposure time, numbers of reflux episodes and PSPW, pH recovery with PSPW, and HRM metrics were extracted. Univariate comparisons and multivariable analysis were performed to determine predictors of pH recovery with PSPW.

RESULTS

Among Sjogren's syndrome (n = 34), scleroderma/MCTD (n = 14), and comparison patients with reflux symptoms (n = 96), the scleroderma/MCTD group had significantly higher AET, higher prevalence of hypomotility, lower detected reflux episodes, and very low numbers of PSPW (p ≤ 0.004 compared to other groups). There was no difference in pH-impedance metrics between Sjogren's syndrome, and comparison patients (p ≥ 0.481). Proportions with complete pH recovery with PSPW was lower in Sjogren's patients compared to comparison reflux patients (p = 0.009), predominantly in subsets with hypomotility (p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, diagnosis of Sjogren's syndrome, scleroderma/MCTD or neither (p = 0.014) and esophageal hypomotility (p = 0.024) independently predicted lack of complete pH recovery with PSPW, while higher total reflux episodes trended (p = 0.051).

CONCLUSIONS

Saliva production and motor function are both important in PSPW related pH recovery.

Effect of anti-reflux suture on gastroesophageal reflux symptoms after one anastomosis gastric bypass: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is an issue after one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and modification of OAGB with adding an anti-reflux system may decrease the incidence of postoperative GERD. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of the anti-reflux mechanism to treat preoperative GERD and prevent de novo GERD.

METHODS

A prospective randomized clinical trial study was conducted on patients with a body mass index of 40 and more from August 2020 to February 2022. Patients undergoing one anastomosis gastric bypass with and without anti-reflux sutures (groups A and B, respectively). These patients had follow-ups for one year after the surgery. GERD symptoms were assessed in all the patients using the GERD symptom questionnaire.

RESULTS

The mean age was 39.5 ± 9.8 years and 40.7 ± 10.2 years in groups A and B respectively. GERD symptoms remission occurred in 76.5% and 68.4% of patients in groups A and B, respectively. The incidence of de novo GERD symptoms was lower in group A, compared to group B (6.2% and 16.1% in groups A and B respectively), without any statistically significant difference (p-value: 0.239).

CONCLUSION

GERD symptoms and de novo GERD after OAGB seems to be under-reported after OAGB. This study suggests that applying an anti-reflux suture can decrease de novo GERD symptoms.

Anatomic and Manometric Abnormalities of the Upper and Lower Esophageal Sphincters in Patients With Reflux Disease

RESEARCH QUESTION

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) may cause inflammation of the laryngeal and pharyngeal mucosa. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) involves retrograde flow of gastric content into the esophagus below the upper esophageal sphincter (UES). The goal of this study was to investigate the esophageal anatomical and manometric variations of the esophagus in patients with LPR and/or GERD.

METHODS

Adult voice center patients who underwent diagnostic workup for reflux complaints with 24-hour multichannel intraluminal pH-impedance testing and esophageal manometry were included in this retrospective study. Subjects were classified as having LPR (>10 proximal reflux events), LPR + GERD (>10 proximal reflux events plus >73 distal reflux events) or were assigned to a control group (≤10 proximal events and ≤73 distal reflux events) based on pH study results. Anatomic and manometric parameters were evaluated between groups.

RESULTS

There were 169 cases (65 male, 104 female) included in this study. The average age was 50.50 ± 17.29. Subjects in the LPR group had significantly higher UES relaxation pressures and greater UES length compared with the control group. Lower esophageal sphincter relaxation pressure was significantly higher in the control group compared with the LPR group or the GERD + LPR group. Subjects in the GERD + LPR group had a significantly shorter intra-abdominal portion of the lower esophageal sphincter compared with the LPR only group and the control group. Intrabolus pressure was significantly lower in both the LPR group and the LPR + GERD group compared with the control group. Distal wave amplitude was significantly lower in the LPR + GERD group compared to both the LPR group and the control group. The percentage of swallows with incomplete clearance was significantly greater in the LPR + GERD group than both the control group and the LPR group. The LPR group had significantly fewer swallows with incomplete clearance than the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Anatomic and manometric abnormalities are present in subjects with LPR with or without GERD and may contribute to the pathogenesis of reflux disease. Further research is needed to confirm or refute these findings.

Coeliac disease is a strong risk factor for Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease while a gluten free diet is protective: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) mechanisms are well described, but the aetiology is uncertain. Coeliac disease (CD), a gluten enteropathy with increased duodenal eosinophils overlaps with GORD. Functional dyspepsia is a condition where duodenal eosinophilia is featured, and a 6-fold increased risk of incident GORD has been observed. Perturbations of the duodenum can alter proximal gastric and oesophageal motor function. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the association between CD and GORD.

METHODS

A systematic search of studies reporting the association of GORD and CD was conducted. CD was defined by combined serological and histological parameters. GORD was defined based on classical symptoms, oesophagitis (endoscopic or histologic) or abnormal 24-h pH monitoring; studies reporting oesophageal motility abnormalities linked with GORD were also included. Pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model.

FINDINGS

31 papers were included. Individuals with CD on a gluten containing diet were 3 times more likely to have GORD than controls (OR: 3.37, 95% CI: 2.09-5.44), and over 10 times more likely when compared to those on a gluten free diet (GFD) (OR: 10.20, 95% CI: 6.49-16.04). Endoscopic oesophagitis was significantly associated with CD (OR: 4.96; 95% CI: 2.22-11.06). One year of a GFD in CD and GORD was more efficacious in preventing GORD symptom relapse than treatment with 8 weeks of PPI in non-CD GORD patients (OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.08-0.36). Paediatric CD patients were more likely to develop GORD (OR: 3.29, 95% CI: 1.46-7.43), compared to adult CD patients (OR: 2.55, 95% CI: 1.65-3.93).

INTERPRETATION

CD is strongly associated with GORD but there was high heterogeneity. More convincingly, a GFD substantially improves GORD symptoms, suggesting a role for duodenal inflammation and dietary antigens in the aetiology of a subset with GORD. Ruling out CD in patients with GORD may be beneficial.

FUNDING

The study was supported by an Investigator Grant from the NHMRC to Dr. Talley.

Prolonged acid reflux monitoring using acid exposure time and DeMeester score: two days are not enough

BACKGROUND

Wireless pH monitoring allows for a definitive GERD diagnosis, which is essential for optimal medical or surgical management of the patient. However, there is no guideline recommendation on whether prolonged pH testing (72 or 96 h) provides additional benefit when compared to the standard 48-h testing. We aimed to assess whether prolonged pH monitoring diagnoses more patients with GERD, as well as compare the DeMeester score to acid exposure time as diagnostic criteria for GERD.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of consecutive adult patients who underwent wireless esophageal pH monitoring between August 2018 and July 2021. The primary outcome was the additional diagnoses of GERD (predominant acid exposure pattern) in patients who underwent 48-h versus 96-h pH monitoring. Secondary outcomes included comparison of the DeMeester score to acid exposure time and internal agreement between the first and second 48-h blocks of a prolonged 96-h pH study.

RESULTS

When comparing 48-h versus 96-h pH testing, the prolonged monitoring group was more likely to have a predominant reflux pattern and thus be diagnosed with definitive GERD by elevated DeMeester score (58.8% vs. 40.8%, p = 0.003) or acid exposure time > 6% (44.7% vs. 32.4%, p = 0.039). For patients who underwent prolonged testing, the results of monitoring beyond 48 h led to a clinically meaningful change in study interpretation in 24.8% of patients. The study data from Days 3 to 4 yielded only a 56.6% agreement with the first 2 days.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing extended pH monitoring, almost half were found to have an abnormal pH study after a normal study on Day 1. An additional 25% of patients had a change in study interpretation by extending the study beyond 48 h. Our findings suggest only 48 h of pH monitoring will miss a diagnosis of GERD in a clinically important number of patients.

Recent advances in the knowledge of the mechanism of reflux hypersensitivity

Reflux hypersensitivity (RH) is a subtype of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The Rome IV criteria separated RH from the original nonerosive reflux disease subgroup and classified it as a new functional oesophageal disease. Recently, the pathogenesis of RH has become the focus of research. According to the latest research reports, upregulation of acid-sensitive receptors, distribution of calcitonin gene-related peptide-positive nerve fibres, and psychiatric comorbidity have key roles in the pathogenesis of RH. This work reviews the latest findings regarding RH mechanisms.

Evaluating acidic gastroesophageal reflux with wireless pH monitoring in French bulldogs with sliding hiatal herniation

BACKGROUND

Sliding hiatal herniation (SHH) and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) commonly occur in French bulldogs. Wireless pH monitoring can quantitatively assess acidic GER in dogs affected by SHH.

HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES

Measure acidic GER in French bulldogs with SHH, pre- and post-brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) surgery, utilizing a wireless pH capsule (Bravo Calibration-free, Medtronic, Minnesota), and correlate with owners' observations of regurgitation.

ANIMALS

Eleven French bulldogs diagnosed with SHH via swallowing fluoroscopy.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study. A pH capsule was endoscopically placed in the esophagus. Up to 96 hours of data were acquired as the owner logged clinical signs. Spearman's correlation and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests evaluated factors correlated with acid exposure time (AET), defined by the % time pH < 4. In 4/11 dogs, Bravo monitoring was repeated 2-4 months after BOAS surgery.

RESULTS

Medians (Q1-Q3) for age and weight were 21 months (17-35.5) and 10.0 kg (8.9-11.5). BOAS severity was mild (3), moderate (4), or severe (4). Medians (Q1-Q3) for AET and reflux events were 3.3% (2.6-6.4) and 70 (34-173). Clinical score (P = .82) and BOAS severity (P = .60) were not correlated with AET, but age was negatively correlated (rho = -.66, P = .03). Median probability (Q1-Q3) that regurgitation was associated with a reflux event was 72.5% (0-99). Percent AET numerically improved in all 4 dogs that underwent BOAS surgery although not statistically assessed.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Wireless pH monitoring documented acidic GER in French bulldogs with SHH, captured subclinical events, and showed improvements after BOAS surgery.

Association of preoperative workup and comorbidities with risk of gastroesophageal surgery failure

Background

While surgical failure rates for fundoplication and hiatal hernia repair are low, there has been no clear evaluation of the preoperative risk factors associated with surgical failure. This study aimed to identify risk factors predisposing patients to surgical failure.

Methods

Patients who underwent antireflux surgery during a 3-year period were evaluated for evidence of surgical complications and placed accordingly into the failure or control group. Demographic data, comorbidities, clinical presentation, preoperative evaluation, and surgical data were collected and compared between the groups.

Results

In total, 86 patients with failure and 42 controls were identified among our cohort. No significant differences were found between groups based on sex (P=0.640). However, patients with failure were younger than controls (57.0 vs. 64.7 years, P=0.0001). Body mass index, tobacco use and alcohol use did not differ significantly between the groups (P=0.189, P=0.0999, P=0.060). Notably, psychiatric illness was more common in the failure group (P=0.0086). Neither hypertension (P=0.134) nor diabetes (P=0.335) had significant differences between groups. For procedures, no significant differences were found for the frequencies of preoperative imaging (P=0.395) or manometry (P=0.374), but pH/BRAVO studies (P=0.0193) and endoscopy (P<0.001) were both performed more frequently in the failure group.

Conclusions

Patients with psychiatric comorbidities are at higher risk of surgical failure. Alcohol use trended toward significance, which warrants further investigation. We also noted an increase in rates of preoperative pH and endoscopy studies, contrary to the prior literature; this is likely due to more complex cases requiring additional workup.

Proximal esophageal impedance baseline increases the yield of impedance-pH and is associated with response to PPIs in chronic cough patients

BACKGROUND

Chronic cough significantly impairs the quality of life. Although various studies focused on MNBI as assessed in the distal esophagus, scarce data are available on the clinical value of proximal measurements.

AIM

To investigate the role of proximal MNBI in the workup of patients with chronic cough and its ability to predict PPI response.

METHODS

Demographic, clinical, endoscopy findings, impedance-pH and HRM tracings from consecutive cough patients were evaluated. MNBI was calculated at proximal and distal esophagus.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty four patients were included. In addition to traditional variables, when considering also the PSPW index or MNBI at 3 cm or 15 cm, the proportion of patients with pathological impedance-pH monitoring significantly increased. 70/164 patients were responders, while 94 (57.3%) were non-responder to double PPI dose (p < 0.05). Patients with pathologic MNBI at 3 cm and/or 15 cm as well as those with pathologic PSPW index were characterized by a significantly higher proportion of responders than that observed among patients with normal impedance-pH variables (p < 0.001). The proportion of responders with pathological MNBI at 15 cm was significantly higher than the proportion of responders with pathological MNBI at 3 cm (82.8% vs. 64.3%, p < 0.05). At multivariable model, pathological MNBI at both 3 cm and 15 cm as well as PSPW index were associated with PPI responsiveness. The strongest association with PPI response was observed for MNBI at 15 cm.

CONCLUSIONS

The assessment of MNBI at proximal esophagus increases the diagnostic yield of impedance-pH monitoring and may represent a useful predictor of PPI responsiveness in the cumbersome clinical setting of suspected reflux-related cough.

Risk factors associated with functional esophageal disorders (FED) versus gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

INTRODUCTION

Despite the high prevalence of typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), approximately 30% of patients have functional esophageal disorders (FED) on ambulatory reflux monitoring, which may include reflux hypersensitivity (RH; defined as physiologic acid exposure but temporally correlated symptoms of reflux), or functional heartburn (FH; defined as physiologic acid exposure and negative symptom correlation). There are limited epidemiological data characterizing these conditions. We investigated demographic and socioeconomic factors as well as medical comorbidities which may predispose to FED versus pathologic GERD.

METHODS

Adult patients with reflux symptoms for at least 3 months were studied with 24-h pH-impedance testing from 11/2019 to 3/2021. Participants were categorized into pathologic GERD, FH, or RH using pH-impedance data and reported symptom correlation. Demographic data, including age, gender, race/ethnicity, zip code, insurance status, and medical comorbidity data were retrospectively retrieved from the electronic medical record on all participants.

RESULTS

229 patients were included. Non-Hispanic Asian ethnicity (OR 5.65; p = 0.01), underweight BMI (OR 7.33; p = 0.06), chronic pain (OR 2.33; p < 0.01), insomnia (OR 2.83; p = 0.06), and allergic rhinitis (OR 3.90; p < 0.01) were associated with a greater risk for FED. Overweight BMI (OR 0.48; p = 0.03) and alcohol use (OR 0.57; p = 0.06) were associated with a decreased risk for FED.

DISCUSSION

This is the first report of a greater risk of FED in patients with underweight BMI, insomnia, chronic pain, allergic rhinitis, or of Asian or Hispanic ethnicities. The weak associations between female gender and anxiety are corroborated in other studies. Our findings enable clinicians to better screen patients with reflux for this disorder.

Digestive Biomarkers of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: A Preliminary Prospective Controlled Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the digestive enzymes and biomarkers in the saliva of patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and asymptomatic individuals.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective controlled study.

SETTING

Multicenter study.

METHODS

Patients with LPR at the hypopharyngeal-esophageal impedance-pH monitoring (HEMII-pH) and asymptomatic individuals were consecutively recruited from January 2020 to April 2023 from 2 University Hospitals. The saliva of patients (off PPIs) and asymptomatic individuals was collected to measure pH, elastase, bile salts, cholesterol, gastric, and pancreatic lipases. Anxiety, symptoms, and findings were studied through perceived stress scale (PSS), reflux symptom score (RSS), and reflux sign assessment (RSA).

RESULTS

Sixty-seven LPR patients and 57 asymptomatic individuals completed the evaluations. LPR patients reported higher PSS, RSS, and RSA than asymptomatic individuals. The mean saliva pH was more alkaline in LPR patients (7.23: 95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.08, 7.38) compared to controls (6.13; 95% CI: 5.95, 6.31; P = .001). The mean concentration of elastase was higher in patients (51.65 µg/mL; 95% CI: 44.47, 58.83 µg/mL) versus asymptomatic individuals (25.18 µg/mL; 95% CI: 21.64, 28.72 µg/mL; P = .001). The saliva cholesterol reported higher concentration in healthy individuals (3.43 mg/dL; 95% CI: 3.21, 3.65 mg/dL) compared to patients (1.16 mg/dL; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.27 mg/dL; P = .001). The saliva pH, and elastase concentration were significantly associated with the baseline RSS, while saliva cholesterol was negatively associated with the severity of RSS and RSA.

CONCLUSION

Cholesterol, bile salts, and elastase are biomarkers of LPR and should be considered to develop future non-invasive saliva device for the detection of LPR.