Management of Nonvariceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Guideline Recommendations From the International Consensus Group

Indications and hemoglobin thresholds for red blood cell transfusion and iron replacement in adults with gastrointestinal bleeding: An algorithm proposed by gastroenterologists and patient blood management experts

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion has long been the cornerstone of treatment for anemia due to GI bleeding. However, blood is not devoid of potential adverse effects, and it is also a precious resource, with limited supplies in blood banks. Nowadays, all patients should benefit from a patient blood management (PBM) program that aims to minimize blood loss, optimize hematopoiesis (mainly by using iron replacement therapy), maximize tolerance of anemia, and avoid unnecessary transfusions. Integration of PBM into healthcare management reduces patient mortality and morbidity and supports a restrictive RBC transfusion approach by reducing transfusion rates. The European Commission has outlined strategies to support hospitals with the implementation of PBM, but it is vital that these initiatives are translated into clinical practice. To help optimize management of anemia and iron deficiency in adults with acute or chronic GI bleeding, we developed a protocol under the auspices of the Spanish Association of Gastroenterology, in collaboration with healthcare professionals from 16 hospitals across Spain, including expert advice from different specialties involved in PBM strategies, such as internal medicine physicians, intensive care specialists, and hematologists. Recommendations include how to identify patients who have anemia (or iron deficiency) requiring oral/intravenous iron replacement therapy and/or RBC transfusion (using a restrictive approach to transfusion), and transfusing RBC units 1 unit at a time, with assessment of patients after each given unit (i.e., “don’t give two without review”). The advantages and limitations of oral versus intravenous iron and guidance on the safe and effective use of intravenous iron are also described. Implementation of a PBM strategy and clinical decision-making support, including early treatment of anemia with iron supplementation in patients with GI bleeding, may improve patient outcomes and lower hospital costs.

Scheduled second look endoscopy after endoscopic hemostasis to patients with high risk bleeding peptic ulcers: a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

The recommendation of second look endoscopy (SLOGD) in selected patients at high risk for rebleeding has been inconclusive. This study aimed to evaluate the benefit of SLOGD in selected patients predicted at high risk of recurrent bleeding.

METHODS

From a cohort of 939 patients with bleeding peptic ulcers who underwent endoscopic hemostasis, we derived a 9-point risk score (age > 60, Male, ulcer ≥ 2 cm in size, posterior bulbar or lesser curve gastric ulcer, Forrest I bleeding, haemoglobin < 8 g/dl) to predict recurrent bleeding. We then validated the score in another cohort of 1334 patients (AUROC 0.77). To test the hypothesis that SLOGD in high-risk patients would improve outcomes, we did a randomized controlled trial to compare scheduled SLOGD with observation alone in those predicted at high risk of rebleeding (a score of ≥ 5). The primary outcome was clinical bleeding within 30 days of the index bleed.

RESULTS

Of 314 required, we enrolled 157 (50%) patients (SLOGD n = 78, observation n = 79). Nine (11.8%) in SLOGD group and 14 (18.2%) in observation group reached primary outcome (absolute difference 6.4%, 95% CI - 5.0% to 17.8%). Twenty-one of 69 (30.4%) patients who underwent SLOGD needed further endoscopic treatment. No surgery for bleeding control was needed. There were 6 vs. 3 of 30-day deaths in either group (p = 0.285, log rank). No difference was observed regarding blood transfusion and hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

In this aborted trial that enrolled patients with bleeding peptic ulcers at high-risk of recurrent bleeding, scheduled SLOGD did not significantly improve outcomes.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov:NCT02352155.

Out of sight for the endoscopist? Gastrointestinal bleeding after aortic repair

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM

Secondary Aortoenteric Fistulas (sAEF) are difficult to diagnose and usually result in fatal gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding following aortic repair. Outcomes are largely dependent on a timely diagnosis, but AEFs remain challenging to identify endoscopically and are usually diagnosed on computed tomography (CT) scans. The aim of our study was optimize diagnosis of AEF by identifying patients developing GI bleeding after aortic repair, investigate their clinical course and identify factors specific to different bleeding sources.

METHODS

A retrospective, single-center study capturing all patients developing upper or lower GI bleeding after aortic surgery between January 2009 and March 2020 was performed. Electronic health records were screened for diagnostic codes of the relevant procedures. Bleeding was classified into three groups: AEF with demonstrable fistula, ischemic - macroscopic ulceration plus histological confirmation or imaging and "other" due to other recognized conventional cause, such as peptic ulcer disease.

RESULTS

47 GI bleeding episodes in 39 patients were identified. Of these, 10 episodes (21%) were caused by AEF, 16 (34%) by ischemic ulceration and 21 (45%) due to other causes. Patients with AEF exhibited more frequent hemodynamic instability requiring vasopressors and had higher mortality, while ischemic ulcerations were associated with more recent operation or hypotensive episode.

CONCLUSIONS

GI bleeding complications are uncommon following aortic surgery. AEF and ischemic ulceration are however frequent bleeding causes in this cohort. In patients presenting with fulminant bleeding, primary CT-scanning should be considered.

Gastrointestinal Emergencies and the Role of Endoscopy

Many gastrointestinal (GI) disorders present to the emergency room with acute clinical presentations, some even life threatening. Common emergencies encountered that require urgent endoscopic interventions include GI hemorrhage (variceal and nonvariceal), foreign body ingestion, obstructive jaundice, postprocedure-related complications such as postpolypectomy bleed or perforation, etc. A major advantage of emergency endoscopy is that it is cost effective and, on many occasions, can be life-saving. The present review will highlight a practical approach on various endoscopic modalities and their use in the GI emergencies.

Peri-Ulcerative Mucosal Inflammation Appearance is an Independent Risk Factor for 30-Day Rebleeding in Patients with Gastric Ulcer Bleeding: A Multicenter Retrospective Study

AIM

The aim of this study was to identify clinical endoscopic indicators related to peri-ulcerative mucosal inflammation and to analyze whether the degree of peri-ulcerative mucosal inflammation appearance is an independent risk factor for gastric ulcer rebleeding.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study that included patients with gastric ulcer bleeding who were hospitalized at three medical centers in China from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2019. Ulcer rebleeding that occurred within 30 days of successful initial hemostasis was analyzed to determine whether this event was related to the degree of peri-ulcerative mucosal inflammation appearance or other mucosal inflammation-related factors.

RESULTS

We enrolled 1111 patients and determined that GBS-Rebleeding-ROC (P<0.001), age (P=0.01), use of NSAIDs (P=0.001), bile reflux (P<0.001), and Helicobacter pylori (P<0.001) are all risk factors for peri-ulcerative mucosal inflammation appearance. Through multivariate analysis, we determined that severe peri-ulcerative mucosal inflammation appearance (P=0.002) was an independent risk factor for ulcer rebleeding within 30 days. Finally, we developed a risk assessment model using factors associated with mucosal inflammation that may be useful for early prediction of rebleeding.

CONCLUSION

The risk factors for peri-ulcerative mucosal inflammation appearance were identified. Severe peri-ulcerative mucosal inflammation appearance is an independent risk factor for ulcer rebleeding.

Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors of In-Hospital Mortality in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction With Subsequent Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Single-Center Experience

Objective

Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) post acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a severe clinical condition with a poor prognosis. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the rate of in-hospital mortality in patients with GIB post-AMI and to identify the potential risk factors of this situation.

Methods

In this single-center retrospective study, a total of 154 patients diagnosed with AMI who subsequently suffered GIB were enrolled from October 2013 to December 2021. Demographic, laboratory, and clinical data were collected. The in-hospital mortality was the outcome of interest. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the potential risk factors of in-hospital mortality.

Results

Among the 154 subjects included in the final analysis, the mean age was 65.58 ± 11.20 years, and 104 (67.53%) were males. GIB occurred in 11 patients after thrombolytic therapy, 50 patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and 93 patients during drug conservative treatment. A total of 41 patients died in the hospital. The in-hospital mortality rate of the thrombolysis group, PCI group, and drug conservative treatment group was 27.27% (3/11), 28.00% (14/50), and 25.81% (24/93), respectively. There was no difference in the in-hospital mortality among the three groups. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the peak levels of TnI (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.02–1.12, P = 0.011), condition of cardiogenic shock after admission (OR 14.52, 95% CI 3.36–62.62, P < 0.001), and the use of the mechanical ventilator (OR 8.14, 95% CI 2.03–32.59, P = 0.003) were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality.

Conclusion

Regardless of the treatment strategy for AMI, once GIB occurred, the prognosis was poor. High in-hospital mortality in patients with GIB post-AMI was independently associated with the peak levels of TnI, condition of cardiogenic shock, and the use of a mechanical ventilator.

The Impact of Night-time Emergency Department Presentation on Upper Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage Outcomes

GOALS

The aim was to investigate the impact of night-time emergency department (ED) presentation on outcomes of patients admitted for acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (UGIH).

BACKGROUND

The relationship between time of ED presentation and outcomes of gastrointestinal hemorrhage is unclear.

STUDY

Using the 2016 and 2017 Florida State Inpatient Databases which provide times of ED arrival, we identified and categorized adults hospitalized for UGIH to daytime (07:00 to 18:59 h) and night-time (19:00 to 06:59 h) based on the time of ED presentation. We matched both groups with propensity scores, and assessed their clinical outcomes including all-cause in-hospital mortality, in-hospital endoscopy utilization, length of stay (LOS), total hospitalization costs, and 30-day all-cause readmission rates.

RESULTS

Of the identified 38,114 patients with UGIH, 89.4% (n=34,068) had acute nonvariceal hemorrhage (ANVH), while 10.6% (n=4046) had acute variceal hemorrhage (AVH). Compared with daytime patients, ANVH patients admitted at night-time had higher odds of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio: 1.32; 95% confidence interval: 1.06-1.60), lower odds of in-patient endoscopy (odds ratio: 0.83; 95% confidence interval: 0.77-0.90), higher total hospital costs ($9911 vs. $9545, P <0.016), but similar LOS and readmission rates. Night-time AVH patients had a shorter LOS (5.4 vs. 5.8 d, P =0.045) but similar mortality rates, endoscopic utilization, total hospitalization costs, and readmission rates as daytime patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients arriving in the ED at night-time with ANVH had worse outcomes (mortality, hospitalization costs, and endoscopy utilization) compared with daytime patients. However, those with AVH had comparable outcomes irrespective of ED arrival time.

Comparison of intermittent and continuous proton pump inhibitor infusions in patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effectiveness of intermittent and continuous proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) infusion on the outcomes of patients with nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB).

METHODS

The study was a single-centred retrospective study in adult patients with active upper gastrointestinal bleeding who received intermittent or continuous PPI infusion at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from January 2013 to October 2019. The outcomes assessed were rebleeding, length of hospital stays and mortality within 30 days of admission, and were compared between the treatment groups. A statistically significant p-value was set at 0.05.

RESULTS

The study involved 97 patients with NVUGIB treated with intermittent (n=56) and continuous (n=41) PPI infusions, with mean (±SD) ages of 66.0±16.1 and 58.0±19.5 years, respectively. The baseline and clinical characteristics between the 2 treatment groups; age (p=0.116), gender (p=0.345) and comorbidities (p=0.401), were comparable. There were no significant differences in rebleeding rates within 30 days (5 [8.9%] versus 1 [2.4%], p=0.396), length of hospital stays (4 vs 5, p=0.067), and mortality rate (1 [1.7%] vs 3 [7.3%], p=0.308) between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

The management of NVUGIB with intermittent and continuous PPI infusions demonstrated comparable outcomes in reducing rebleeding rate, length of hospital stays, and mortality rate among patients attending the university hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Proton Pump Inhibitor Prescribing and Monitoring Patterns Among Gastroenterology Practitioners

GOALS

The aim was to quantify proton pump inhibitor (PPI) practice habits among gastroenterology (GI) practitioners.

BACKGROUND

Reports of side effects have prompted patients and practitioners alike to discontinue PPI use. Emerging evidence-based literature on PPI risks and safety seek to guide practitioners, but the impact of this literature on PPI prescribing patterns has not been evaluated.

STUDY

We performed an anonymous online survey of US GI practitioners across 6 academic and community affiliated medical centers. Demographic data including practice type and number of weekly gastroesophageal reflux disease patients seen were obtained. Survey questions evaluated practitioners' monitoring for PPI side effects, dose adjustments, and sources of information about PPI risks.

RESULTS

The survey response rate was 60% (256/429). The majority of respondents were male (169, 66%) attending physicians (178, 70%) practicing general GI (63, 25%). There were 92 (36%) respondents who reported testing for PPI side effects at least once a year. Most respondents (143, 56%) reported discontinuing PPIs at least 50% of the time because of patients' concerns about PPI side effects. The majority of respondents reported getting their information regarding PPI safety from published journals (239, 98%) as well as colleagues (222, 91%).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite best available evidence suggesting safety of long-term PPI use without routine monitoring, stopping PPIs and monitoring for potential side effects occurs frequently, even within a cohort of mostly academic GI practitioners. Alternative strategies are needed to improve adherence to best practices, especially since gastroenterologists often serve as PPI experts.

Hemostatic powders for gastrointestinal bleeding: a review of old, new, and emerging agents in a rapidly advancing field

Background and study aims  Hemostatic powders are increasingly used to address limitations in conventional endoscopic techniques for gastrointestinal bleeding. Various agents exist with different compositions, characteristics, efficacy, and adverse events (AEs). We sought to review existing hemostatic powders, from preclinical to established agents. Methods  A literature review on hemostatic powders for gastrointestinal bleeding was undertaken through a MEDLINE search from 2000-2021 and hand searching of articles. Relevant literature was critically appraised and reviewed for mechanism of action, hemostasis and rebleeding rate, factors associated with hemostatic failure, and AEs. Results  The most established agents are TC-325 (Hemospray), EndoClot, and Ankaferd Blood Stopper (ABS). These agents have been successfully applied to a variety of upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding etiologies, in the form of primary, combination, salvage, and bridging therapy. Few AEs have been reported, including visceral perforation, venous embolism, and self-limited abdominal pain. Newer agents include CEGP-003 and UI-EWD, which have shown results similar to those for the older agents in initial clinical studies. All aforementioned powders have high immediate hemostasis rates, particularly in scenarios not amenable to conventional endoscopic methods, but are limited by significant rates of rebleeding. Other treatments include TDM-621 (PuraStat) consisting of a liquid hemostatic agent newly applied to endoscopy and self-propelling thrombin powder (CounterFlow Powder), a preclinical but promising agent. Conclusions  Rapid development of hemostatic powders and growing clinical expertise has established these agents as a valuable strategy in gastrointestinal bleeding. Further research will continue to refine the efficacy and applicability of these agents.

Timing of endoscopy for acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a territory-wide cohort study

OBJECTIVE

While it is recommended that patients presenting with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (AUGIB) should receive endoscopic intervention within 24 hours, the optimal timing is still uncertain. We aimed to assess whether endoscopy timing postadmission would affect outcomes.

DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective, territory-wide, cohort study with healthcare data from all public hospitals in Hong Kong. Adult patients (age ≥18) that presented with AUGIB between 2013 and 2019 and received therapeutic endoscopy within 48 hours (n=6474) were recruited. Patients were classified based on endoscopic timing postadmission: urgent (t≤6), early (6

RESULTS

Results showed that urgent timing (n=1008) had worse outcomes compared with early endoscopy (n=3865), with higher 30-day all-cause mortality (p<0.001), repeat endoscopy rates (p<0.001) and ICU admission rates (p<0.001). Late endoscopy (n=1601) was associated with worse outcomes, with higher 30-day mortality (p=0.003), in-hospital mortality (p=0.022) and 30-day transfusion rates (p=0.018).

CONCLUSION

Compared with urgent and late endoscopy among patients who have received therapeutic endoscopies, early endoscopy was associated with superior outcomes especially among patients with non-variceal bleeding. This supports the notion that non-variceal AUGIB patients should receive endoscopy within 24 hours, but also emphasises the importance of prior resuscitation and pharmacotherapy.

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Key Words

• gastrointesinal endoscopy
• gastrointestinal bleeding
• therapeutic endoscopy

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MESH Headings

• Acute Disease
• Adult
• Cohort Studies
• Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal/methods
• Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage/diagnosis
• Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage/etiology
• Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage/therapy
• Humans
• Retrospective Studies

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Affiliation(s)

Cosmos L T Guo Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Sunny H Wong Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Louis H S Lau Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Rashid N S Lui Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Joyce W Y Mak Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Raymond S Y Tang Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Terry C F Yip Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Medical Data Analytics Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
William K K Wu Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Grace L H Wong Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Medical Data Analytics Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Francis K L Chan Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
James Y W Lau Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Joseph J Y Sung Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

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Nomogram for predicting rebleeding after initial endoscopic epinephrine injection monotherapy hemostasis in patients with peptic ulcer bleeding: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Although the current guidelines recommend endoscopic combination therapy, endoscopic epinephrine injection (EI) monotherapy is still a simple, common and effective modality for treating peptic ulcer bleeding (PUB). However, the rebleeding risk after EI monotherapy is still high, and identifying rebleeding patients after EI monotherapy is unclear, which is highly important in clinical practice. This study aimed to identify risk factors and constructed a predictive nomogram related to rebleeding after EI monotherapy.

METHODS

We consecutively and retrospectively analyzed 360 PUB patients who underwent EI monotherapy between March 2014 and July 2021 in our center. Then we identified independent risk factors associated with rebleeding after initial endoscopic EI monotherapy by multivariate logistic regression. A predictive nomogram was developed and validated based on the above predictors.

RESULTS

Among all PUB patients enrolled, 51 (14.2%) had recurrent hemorrhage within 30 days after endoscopic EI monotherapy. After multivariate logistic regression, shock [odds ratio (OR) = 12.691, 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.129-31.399, p < 0.001], Rockall score (OR = 1.877, 95% CI 1.250-2.820, p = 0.002), tachycardia (heart rate > 100 beats/min) (OR = 2.610, 95% CI 1.098-6.203, p = 0.030), prolonged prothrombin time (PT > 13 s) (OR = 2.387, 95% CI 1.019-5.588, p = 0.045) and gastric ulcer (OR = 2.258, 95% CI 1.003-5.084, p = 0.049) were associated with an increased risk of rebleeding after an initial EI monotherapy treatment. A nomogram incorporating these independent high-risk factors showed good discrimination, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.876 (95% CI 0.817-0.934) (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a predictive nomogram of rebleeding after EI monotherapy, which had excellent prediction accuracy. This predictive nomogram can be conveniently used to identify low-risk rebleeding patients after EI monotherapy, allowing for decision-making in a clinical setting.

Comparison of risk scoring systems for upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients after renal transplantation: a retrospective observational study in Hunan, China

Background

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common complication in renal transplant recipients. However, the risk stratification value of bleeding scoring systems in these patients is unclear, and data regarding risk factors are limited.

Methods

Clinical data of renal transplant recipients in The Third Xiangya hospital were collected. The predictive ability of Glasgow Blatchford score (GBS), pre-endoscopy Rockall score (pRS), and AIMS65 score were assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Risk factors of UGIB were analyzed using binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 220 patients were enrolled, of which 55 with UGIB. Endoscopy improved the overall survival rate of patients. Glasgow Blatchford score (AUROC 0.868) performed best at predicting UGIB patients who need intervention or death, with a threshold of 10, sensitivity and specificity were 82.4% and 70%, respectively. In terms of predicting mortality, the GBS score was comparable with AIMS65 score (p = 0.30) and pRS score (p = 0.42). Viral hepatitis, intravenous hormone usage, low platelet count, and low albumin level were significant factors associated with UGIB.

Conclusions

The Glasgow Blatchford score (AUROC 0.868) was best at predicting the need for intervention or death. However, their ability to predict mortality was limited, with AUROC less than 0.8. Our study also identified four independent risk factors for renal transplant recipients with UGIB.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12876-022-02426-3.

Usefulness of the d-dimer to albumin ratio for risk assessment in patients with acute variceal bleeding at the emergency department: retrospective observational study

Background

Acute variceal bleeding (AVB) is a severe complication of portal hypertension that is caused by rupture of the esophageal or gastric varix. Scoring system for risk stratification of AVB is difficult to use because various variables must be entered, and it is difficult to apply early in the emergency department (ED). We compared and analyzed the usefulness of the D-dimer to albumin ratio (DAR) for risk stratification of AVB.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, medical records of patients with AVB Between January 2019 and December 2020 were assessed. The primary endpoint was to evaluate whether DAR was a predictor of clinical outcomes for AVB. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed using cut-off values determined by the Youden Index. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the factors contributing to the development of outcomes.

Results

Overall, 67 patients required intensive care. The cut-off value of DAR for patients requiring intensive care was 400. A DAR > 400 (adjusted HR: 5.636 [95% CI: 2.216–14.332]) independently predicted the need for ICU admission in these patients. Overall, 13 patients required long-term hospitalization. The cut-off value of DAR for patients requiring long-term hospitalization was 403. A DAR > 403 (adjusted HR: 9.899 [95% CI: 2.012–48.694]) independently predicted the need for long-term hospitalization. Overall, 95 patients required transfusion. The cut-off value of DAR for patients requiring transfusion was 121. A DAR > 121 (adjusted HR: 4.680 [95% CI: 1.703–12.862]) independently predicted the need for transfusion. Overall, 11 patients died during study period. The cut-off value of DAR for mortality was 450. A DAR > 450 (adjusted HR: 26.261 [95% CI: 3.054–225.827]) independently predicted mortality.

Conclusions

The DAR can be used for outcome assessment in patients with AVB with various scoring systems, but its explanatory power is not high.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12873-022-00696-4.

Fresh Frozen Plasma in Cases of Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding Does Not Improve Outcomes

Background

Blood products are commonly transfused in patients with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). There exists considerable practice variation and less evidence to guide fresh frozen plasma transfusion in patients with UGIB. The aim of this study was to explore any association between fresh frozen plasma transfusion following acute UGIB and clinical outcomes.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational, multicenter study conducted at 20 tertiary hospitals in China. Patients with acute UGIB with an international normalized ratio ≤ 2.0 at emergency department admission were included. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine and quantify any clinical associations.

Results

A total of 976 patients (61.57 ± 15.79 years old, 73.05% male) were included, of whom 17.42% received fresh frozen plasma transfusion. The overall 90-day mortality and rebleeding rates were 10.20 and 12.19%, respectively. After adjusting for confounding factors, transfusion of fresh frozen plasma during hospitalization was associated with higher 90-day mortality [odd ratio (OR), 2.36; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.36–4.09; p = 0.002] but not rebleeding (OR, 1.5; 95% CI; 0.94-2.54; p = 0.085). In a subgroup analysis, patients with an international normalized ratio <1.5 who were treated with fresh frozen plasma were associated with both significantly higher 90-day mortality (OR, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.49–5.21; p = 0.001) and rebleeding (OR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.16–3.52; p = 0.013), whereas in patients with an international normalized ratio between 1.5 and 2, we did not find any significant correlation.

Conclusion

This study found an association between fresh frozen plasma transfusion following acute UGIB and elevated 90-day mortality. Both 90-day mortality and rebleeding risk were significantly higher in patients with an international normalized ratio < 1.5. Fresh frozen plasma transfusion in acute UGIB does not improve the poor outcomes (Chinese Clinical Trial registry, Number ChiCTR1900028676).

An update on drug-drug interactions associated with proton pump inhibitors

INTRODUCTION

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) block the gastric H/K-ATPase, therefore inhibiting acid gastric secretion, leading to an increased pH (>4). They account for an extremely high number of prescriptions worldwide. Numerous drug-drug interactions have been described with PPIs, but all the described interactions do not have clinical significance.

AREAS COVERED

This review will discuss the latest updates on drug-drug interactions with PPIs, focusing on the last ten-year publications in the following areas: anti-infective agents, anticancer drugs, antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants, and antidiabetics.

EXPERT OPINION

Although pharmacokinetic interactions of PPIs have been described with many drugs, their clinical relevance remains controversial. However, given the extremely high number of people being treated with PPIs, clinicians should remain vigilant for interactions that may be clinically significant and require dose adjustment or therapeutic monitoring. Interestingly, not all PPIs have the same pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile, with some having a strong potential to inhibit CYP2C19, such as omeprazole, esomeprazole and lansoprazole, while others, pantoprazole, rabeprazole and dexlansoprazole, are weak CYP2C19 inhibitors. These may be preferred depending on co-prescribed treatments.In addition, new formulations have been developed to prevent some of the gastric pH-dependent drug interactions and should be evaluated in further large-scale prospective comparative studies.

The impact of red blood cell transfusion practices on inpatient mortality in variceal and non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding patients: a 20-year US nationwide retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Previous studies in upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding have reported inconsistent outcomes about packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion practices.

AIM

To assess whether PRBC transfusion is more likely to be dangerous in variceal bleeding than in non-variceal bleeding due to concern of over-transfusion leading to elevated portal pressure.

METHODS

We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (1999-2018). We identified patients with upper GI bleeding using an algorithmic approach, categorising bleeding from non-variceal or variceal sources. Our primary outcome was all-cause inpatient mortality. To control for the severity of bleeding, we performed propensity matching of baseline features, including age, gender, the presence of shock, the need for ICU care and co-morbidities. We also examined PRBC transfusion, inpatient mortality and hospitalisation rates for both populations.

RESULTS

We included 10,228,524 upper GI bleeding discharges; 755,135 patients had variceal bleeding. After propensity matching, PRBC transfusion in variceal bleeders was associated with a 22% increase in inpatient mortality, whereas non-variceal bleeders had a 9% increase in inpatient mortality. Compared to non-variceal bleeders receiving blood transfusion, variceal bleeders had nearly four-fold higher odds of inpatient mortality (propensity-matched OR: 3.8; 95% CI: 3.7-3.8; p < 0.001). Notably, PRBC transfusion rates in both groups have declined since 2011, although it has remained higher in variceal bleeders. Mortality for upper GI bleeding has been declining since 1999.

CONCLUSIONS

Although decreased over the last decade, PRBC transfusion rates remain high for variceal bleeders. In addition, PRBC transfusion appears to be more detrimental in variceal bleeders than in non-variceal bleeders.

Consensus document of the Spanish Society of Digestives Diseases and the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis on massive nonvariceal gastrointestinal bleeding and direct-acting oral anticoagulants

INTRODUCTION

there is limited experience and understanding of massive nonvariceal gastrointestinal bleeding during therapy with direct-acting oral anticoagulants.

OBJECTIVES

to provide evidenced-based definitions and recommendations.

METHODS

a consensus document developed by the Spanish Society of Digestives Diseases and the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis using modified Delphi methodology. A panel was set up of 24 gastroenterologists with experience in gastrointestinal bleeding, and consensus building was assessed over three rounds. Final recommendations are based on a systematic review of the literature using the GRADE system.

RESULTS

panelist agreement was 91.53 % for all 30 items as a group, a percentage that was improved during rounds 2 and 3 for items where clinical experience is lower. Explicit disagreement was only 1.25 %. A definition of massive nonvariceal gastrointestinal bleeding in patients on direct-acting oral anticoagulants was established, and recommendations to optimize this condition's management were developed.

CONCLUSION

the approach to these critically ill patients must be multidisciplinary and protocolized, optimizing decisions for an early identification of the condition and patient stabilization according to the tenets of damage control resuscitation. Thus, consideration must be given to immediate anticoagulation reversal, preferentially with specific antidotes (idarucizumab for dabigatran and andexanet alfa for direct factor Xa inhibitors); hemostatic resuscitation, and bleeding point identification and management.

Upper endoscopy photodocumentation quality evaluation with novel deep learning system

OBJECTIVES

Visualization and photodocumentation during endoscopy procedures are suggested to be one indicator for endoscopy performance quality. However, this indicator is difficult to measure and audit manually in clinical practice. Artificial intelligence (AI) is an emerging technology that may solve this problem.

METHODS

A deep learning model with an accuracy of 96.64% was developed from 15,305 images for upper endoscopy anatomy classification in the unit. Endoscopy images for asymptomatic patients receiving screening endoscopy were evaluated with this model to assess the completeness of photodocumentation rate.

RESULTS

A total of 15,723 images from 472 upper endoscopies performed by 12 endoscopists were enrolled. The complete photodocumentation rate from the pharynx to the duodenum was 53.8% and from the esophagus to the duodenum was 78.0% in this study. Endoscopists with a higher adenoma detection rate had a higher complete examination rate from the pharynx to duodenum (60.0% vs. 38.7%, P < 0.0001) and from esophagus to duodenum (83.0% vs. 65.7%, P < 0.0001) compared with endoscopists with lower adenoma detection rate. The pharynx, gastric angle, gastric retroflex view, gastric antrum, and the first portion of duodenum are likely to be missed by endoscopists with lower adenoma detection rates.

CONCLUSIONS

We report the use of a deep learning model to audit endoscopy photodocumentation quality in our unit. Endoscopists with better performance in colonoscopy had a better performance for this quality indicator. The use of such an AI system may help the endoscopy unit audit endoscopy performance.

Derivation and validation of Re.Co.De death score risk in patients with acute nonvariceal upper GI bleeding

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Scores in upper GI bleeding (UGIB) are used to stratify death risk and need for hospitalization at admission, but a tool that incorporates dynamic changes during the hospital stay is lacking. We aimed to develop a death risk score that considers changes in clinical status during hospitalization and compare its performance with existing ones.

METHODS

A multicenter cohort study enrolling patients with UGIB in 50 Italian hospitals from January 2014 to December 2015 was conducted. Data were collected and used to develop a risk score using logistic regression analyses. Performance curves (area under the receiver-operating characteristic [AUROC] curves), sensitivities, specificities, positive and negative predictive values, and outcomes classified as low, intermediate, and high death risk were calculated. The score's performance was externally validated and then compared with other scores.

RESULTS

We included 1852 patients with nonvariceal UGIB in the development cohort and 912 in the validation cohorts. The new score, which we named the Re.Co.De (rebleeding-comorbidities-deteriorating) score, included 10 variables depicting the changes in clinical conditions while in the hospital. The mortality AUROC curves were .93 (95% confidence interval, .91-.96) in the derivation cohort and .94 (95% confidence interval, .91-.98) in validation cohort. In a comparison of AUROC curves with other scores, the new score showed a significant performance compared with pre- and postendoscopy scores. Patients with low and high scores had 30-day mortality rates of .001% and 48.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The Re.Co.De score has a higher performance for predicting mortality in patients with UGIB compared with other scores, correctly identifying patients at low and high death risk while in the hospital through a dynamic re-evaluation of clinical status.

Elevated troponin in patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding: prevalence, predictors and outcomes

Background: Cardiac troponin (cTn) can also be elevated in patients with non-cardiac illnesses. The utility of elevated cTn in patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding (AGIB) is unclear. Methods: We retrospectively identified all patients admitted with AGIB who had cTn ordered. We assessed the prevalence, predictors and mortality. Results: A total of 172 patients with AGIB were included in the study, of whom 17% had abnormal cTn. Predictors of elevated cTn were advanced age, lower BMI, coronary artery disease and chronic kidney disease. The abnormal cTn group had more cardiac consultation and procedures and longer length of stay. However, there was no difference in mortality between the two groups. Conclusion: Elevated cTn in patients with AGIB was associated with more cardiology consultation and downstream cardiac testing, greater delay to endoscopic evaluation and longer length of stay, without significantly affecting the mortality.

Association of inferior vena cava diameter ratio with outcomes in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding

Objective

To examine the association of inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter ratio measured using computed tomography with outcomes in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB).

Methods

A single-center retrospective observational study was conducted on consecutive patients with GIB who presented to the emergency department. The IVC diameter ratio was calculated by dividing the maximum transverse and anteroposterior diameters perpendicular to it. The association of the IVC diameter ratio with outcomes was examined using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) of the IVC diameter ratio was calculated, and the sensitivity and specificity, including the cutoff values, were computed.

Results

In total, 585 patients were included in the final analysis. The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.6% (n=27). The IVC diameter ratio was significantly associated with higher in-hospital mortality in multivariable logistic regression analysis (odds ratio, 1.793; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.239–2.597; P=0.002). The AUC of the IVC diameter ratio for in-hospital mortality was 0.616 (95% CI, 0.498–0.735). With a cutoff of the IVC diameter ratio (≥2.1), the sensitivity and specificity for predicting in-hospital mortality were 44% (95% CI, 26%–65%) and 71% (95% CI, 67%–75%), respectively.

Conclusion

The IVC diameter ratio was independently associated with in-hospital mortality in patients with GIB. However, the AUC of the IVC diameter ratio for in-hospital mortality was low.

Clinical outcomes of gastrointestinal bleeding management during anticoagulation therapy

Background

Acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is not an uncommon complication of oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy that requires medication cessation. However, drug cessation may cause fatal stroke or systemic embolization in patients at high thromboembolic risk. Here we sought to find an appropriate anticoagulation cessation strategy in cases of GI bleeding during OAC therapy.

Methods

This single-center retrospective cohort analysis was performed between 2010 and 2018. Patients were enrolled if the following three consecutive conditions were met: 1) electrocardiography electrocardiography-proven atrial fibrillation; 2) OAC therapy; and 3) GI bleeding. We divided the drug cessation strategy into the continuation and discontinuation groups. During 1-year follow-up, the rates of major thromboembolic and rebleeding events were calculated.

Results

One hundred and forty-six patients (continuation [n = 54] vs. discontinuation [n = 92] group) were enrolled. Patients in the discontinuation group were more likely to be older (69.8 ± 9.0 yrs vs. 74.9 ± 8.9 yrs, p = 0.001), while patients in the continuation group were more likely to have undergone cardiac valve surgery (51.9% vs. 20.7%, p<0.001). The presence of a mechanical mitral valve was a determinant of continuation strategy (38.9% vs. 7.5%, p<0.001). However, the mean CHA₂DS₂-VASc (3.4±1.3 vs. 4.1±1.6, p = 0.010) and Glasgow-Blatchford (8.0±2.4 vs. 8.9±2.5, p = 0.037) scores were higher in the discontinuation group.

Two major embolic strokes occurred in each group (3.7% vs. 2.2%, p = 0.585). Four of 54 (7.4%) and five of 92 (5.4%) patients had rebleeding events during follow-up (p = 0.632). One embolic event in the continuation group and one rebleeding event in the discontinuation group were fatal. The Glasgow-Blatchford score was a predictor of 1-year rebleeding events (odds ratio [OR], 1.36; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.68–2.20; p = 0.028). The high CHA₂DS₂-VASc score showed a strong trend (OR, 1.71; 95% CI, 0.92–3.20; p = 0.089) in 1-year thromboembolic events.

Conclusion

No single risk factor or drug cessation strategy was attributed to adverse clinical events after GI bleeding. The risk of future thrombotic or rebleeding events should be individualized and controlled for based on a pre-existing stratification system.

Gastroduodenal artery embolization for peptic ulcer hemorrhage refractory to endoscopic intervention: A single-center experience

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of gastroduodenal artery embolization (GDAE) for bleeding peptic ulcers that failed endoscopic intervention. To identify incidence and risk factors for failure of GDAE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of patients who underwent GDAE for hemorrhage from peptic ulcer disease refractory to endoscopic intervention were included in the study. Refractory to endoscopic intervention was defined as persistent hemorrhage following at least two separate endoscopic sessions with two different endoscopic techniques (thermal, injection, or mechanical) or one endoscopic session with the use of two different techniques. Demographics, comorbidities, endoscopic and angiographic findings, significant post-embolization pRBC transfusion, and index GDAE failure were collected. Failure of index GDAE was defined as the need for re-intervention (repeat embolization, endoscopy, or surgery) for rebleeding or mortality within 30 days after GDAE. Multivariate analyzes were performed to identify independent predictors for failure of index GDAE.

RESULTS

There were 70 patients that underwent GDAE after endoscopic intervention for bleeding peptic ulcers with a technical success rate of 100%. Failure of index GDAE rate was 23% (n = 16). Multivariate analysis identified ≥2 comorbidities (odds ratio [OR]: 14.2 [1.68-19.2], P = 0.023), days between endoscopy and GDAE (OR: 1.43 [1.11-2.27], P = 0.028), and extravasation during angiography (OR: 6.71 [1.16-47.4], P = 0.039) as independent predictors of index GDAE failure. Endoscopic Forrest classification was not a significant predictor for the failure of index GDAE (P > 0.1).

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates safety and efficacy of GDAE for hemorrhage from PUD that is refractory to endoscopic intervention. Days between endoscopy and GDAE, high comorbidity burden, and extravasation during angiography are associated with increased risk for failure of index GDAE.

Impact of Readmission for Variceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Nationwide Analysis

BACKGROUND

Variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (VUGIB) is a common and potentially lethal complication of cirrhosis. Population-based data regarding hospital readmission and other outcomes in VUGIB are limited.

AIM

In a large United States database of patients with VUGIB, we evaluated readmission rates, mortality rates, healthcare resource consumption, and identified predictors of readmission.

METHODS

The 2017 Nationwide Readmission Database using ICD-10 codes was used to identify all adult patients admitted for VUGIB. Primary outcomes were 30- and 90-day readmission rates. Secondary outcomes included mortality, healthcare resource consumption, and predictors of readmission. Multivariate regression analysis was used to adjust for potential confounders.

RESULTS

In 2017, there were 26,498 patients with VUGIB discharged from their index hospitalization, and 24.7% were readmitted (all-cause) within 30-days and 41.5% within 90-days. Recurrent VUGIB accounted for 26.7% and 28.9% of 30- and 90-day readmissions, respectively. Compared to index admissions, 30-day readmissions were associated with higher mortality (4.3% vs. 6.4%, p < 0.01), increased mean hospital length of stay (5.6 days vs. 4.5 days, p < 0.01), and charges ($65,984 vs. $53,784, p < 0.01), with similar findings in 90-day readmissions. Factors associated with 30-day readmission included end-stage renal disease (HR 1.2, p < 0.05), chronic kidney disease (HR 1.31, p < 0.01), and acute kidney injury (HR 1.14, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Based on a nationwide cohort of hospitalized VUGIB patients, 25% were readmitted within 30-days and 42% within 90-days. Readmission was associated with increased mortality and healthcare consumption compared to the index admission. Additionally, acute and chronic renal injury were predictors of patients at high-risk for readmission.

Deep learning-based endoscopic anatomy classification: an accelerated approach for data preparation and model validation

BACKGROUND

Photodocumentation during endoscopy procedures is one of the indicators for endoscopy performance quality; however, this indicator is difficult to measure and audit in the endoscopy unit. Emerging artificial intelligence technology may solve this problem, which requires a large amount of material for model development. We developed a deep learning-based endoscopic anatomy classification system through convolutional neural networks with an accelerated data preparation approach.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively collected 8,041 images from esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) procedures and labeled them using two experts for nine anatomical locations of the upper gastrointestinal tract. A base model for EGD image multiclass classification was first developed, and an additional 6,091 images were enrolled and classified by the base model. A total of 5,963 images were manually confirmed and added to develop the subsequent enhanced model. Additional internal and external endoscopy image datasets were used to test the model performance.

RESULTS

The base model achieved total accuracy of 96.29%. For the enhanced model, the total accuracy was 96.64%. The overall accuracy improved with the enhanced model compared with the base model for the internal test dataset without narrowband images (93.05% vs. 91.25%, p < 0.01) or with narrowband images (92.74% vs. 90.46%, p < 0.01). The total accuracy was 92.56% of the enhanced model on the external test dataset.

CONCLUSIONS

We constructed a deep learning-based model with an accelerated approach that can be used for quality control in endoscopy units. The model was also validated with both internal and external datasets with high accuracy.

Blood Transfusion Reactions-A Comprehensive Review of the Literature including a Swiss Perspective

Blood transfusions have been the cornerstone of life support since the introduction of the ABO classification in the 20th century. The physiologic goal is to restore adequate tissue oxygenation when the demand exceeds the offer. Although it can be a life-saving therapy, blood transfusions can lead to serious adverse effects, and it is essential that physicians remain up to date with the current literature and are aware of the pathophysiology, initial management and risks of each type of transfusion reaction. We aim to provide a structured overview of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach and management of acute transfusion reactions based on the literature available in 2022. The numbers of blood transfusions, transfusion reactions and the reporting rate of transfusion reactions differ between countries in Europe. The most frequent transfusion reactions in 2020 were alloimmunizations, febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reactions and allergic transfusion reactions. Transfusion-related acute lung injury, transfusion-associated circulatory overload and septic transfusion reactions were less frequent. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the healthcare system with decreasing blood donations and blood supplies, as well as rising concerns within the medical community but also in patients about blood safety and transfusion reactions in COVID-19 patients. The best way to prevent transfusion reactions is to avoid unnecessary blood transfusions and maintain a transfusion-restrictive strategy. Any symptom occurring within 24 h of a blood transfusion should be considered a transfusion reaction and referred to the hemovigilance reporting system. The initial management of blood transfusion reactions requires early identification, immediate interruption of the transfusion, early consultation of the hematologic and ICU departments and fluid resuscitation.

[Efficacy Analysis of Transcatheter Arterial Embolization in Acute Non-Variceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) in the treatment of acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (ANVUGIB), and to guide clinical practice and continue to optimize diagnosis and treatment strategies.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 266 patients who underwent angiography due to ANVUGIB between March 2016 and March 2021. Data on the positive rate of angiography, the technical success rate and clinical success rate of TAE, and the rebleeding rate and the all-cause mortality within 30 days after TAE treatment were collected, and the influencing factors relevant to the above events were analyzed accordingly.

RESULTS

All 266 patients completed angiography--the positive rate of angiography was 54.1% (144/266), the total technical success rate was 97.3% (217/223), the clinical success rate was 73.1% (155/212), and the rebleeding rate and all-cause mortality within 30 days were 26.9% (57/212) and 16.1% (35/217), respectively. This study found that shock index>1 ( OR=5.950; 95% CI: 1.481-23.895; P=0.012), computed tomography angiography (CTA) positive result ( OR=6.813; 95% CI: 1.643-28.252; P=0.008) and interval<24 h ( OR=10.530; 95% CI: 2.845-38.976; P<0.001) were independent predictors of positive angiography. Shock index>1 ( OR=2.544; 95% CI: 1.301-4.972; P=0.006) and INR>1.5 ( OR=3.207; 95% CI: 1.381-7.451; P=0.007) were independent risk factors for rebleeding. Patients with postoperative bleeding ( OR=3.174; 95% CI: 1.164-8.654; P=0.024) and patients with rebleeding after embolization ( OR=34.665; 95% CI: 11.471-104.758; P<0.001) had a higher risk of death within 30 days.

CONCLUSION

TAE is safe and effective in the treatment of ANVUGIB. Patients with shock index>1 and positive CTA are more likely to be angiographic positive, and should undergo angiography as early as possible after bleeding. In addition, rebleeding after embolization deserves high attention.

[Clinical Management of Non-Variceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding]

Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) is defined as bleeding proximal to the ligament of Treitz in the absence of varices. As a common clinical problem, NVUGIB entails a heavy burden on the healthcare system. In addition to endoscopic hemostasis, evaluation and treatment before and after endoscopy are also of critical importance for the clinical management of NVUGIB patients. In recent years, based on the rapid development of endoscopic technology and clinical management of NVUGIB, the research evidence and clinical guidelines have been updated internationally, while some clinical decisions remain controversial. In this article, we mainly reviewed and discussed the current status of NVUGIB patient management before, during, and after endoscopy, aiming to deepen the understanding of the disease for clinicians, and to promote standardized management of patients with NVUGIB.

Timing of endoscopy in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding

The optimal timing of endoscopy in patients with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) remains controversial. In this study, we investigated the clinical outcomes of urgent endoscopy in patients with UGIB compared with elective endoscopy. From January 2016 to December 2018, consecutive patients who visited the emergency department and underwent endoscopy for clinical manifestations of acute UGIB, including variceal bleeding, were eligible. Urgent endoscopy (within 6 h) and elective endoscopy (after 6 h) were defined as the time taken to perform endoscopy after presentation to the emergency department. The primary outcome was mortality rate within 30 days. A total of 572 patients were included in the analysis. Urgent endoscopy was performed in 490 patients (85.7%). The 30-day mortality rate did not differ between the urgent and elective endoscopy groups (5.3% and 6.1%, p = 0.791). There was no difference regarding the recurrent bleeding rate, total amount of transfusion, or length of hospital between the groups. In multivariate analysis, age and the amount of transfusion were associated with mortality. Urgent endoscopy was not associated with a lower 30-day mortality rate compared with elective endoscopy in patients with acute UGIB.

Treatment Strategies in Emergency Endoscopy for Acute Esophageal Variceal Bleeding (CHESS1905): A Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Emergency endoscopy is recommended for patients with acute esophageal variceal bleeding (EVB) and their prognosis has improved markedly over past decades due to the increased specialization of endoscopic practice. The study aimed to compare outcomes following emergency endoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EIS) and endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) in cirrhotic patients with acute EVB.

METHODS

Cirrhotic patients with acute EVB who underwent emergency endoscopy were retrospectively enrolled from 2013 to 2020 across 34 university hospitals from 30 cities. The primary outcome was the incidence of 5-day rebleeding after emergency endoscopy. Subgroup analysis was stratified by Child-Pugh class and bleeding history. A 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 1,017 and 382 patients were included in EIS group and EVL group, respectively. The 5-day rebleeding incidence was similar between EIS group and EVL group (4% vs. 5%, P = 0.45). The result remained the same after PSM (P = 1.00). Among Child-Pugh class A, B and C patients, there were no differences in the 5-day rebleeding incidence between the two groups after PSM (P = 0.25, 0.82, and 0.21, respectively). As for the patients with or without bleeding history, the differences between EIS group and EVL group were not significant after PSM (P = 1.00 and 0.26, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The nationwide cohort study indicates that EIS and EVL are both efficient emergency endoscopic treatment strategies for acute EVB. EIS should not be dismissed as an economical and effective emergency endoscopic treatment strategy of acute EVB. ClincialTrials.gov number NCT04307264.

The Effects of COVID-19 on Clinical Outcomes of Non-COVID-19 Patients Hospitalized for Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding during the Pandemic

This study aims to investigate the effects of COVID-19 on clinical outcomes of non-COVID-19 patients hospitalized for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) during the pandemic. A retrospective review is conducted. We recruited patients with UGIB admitted during the pandemic’s first wave (April 2020 to June 2020), and the year before the pandemic. The outcomes between the two groups were compared using propensity score matching (PSM). In total, 60 patients (pandemic group) and 460 patients (prepandemic group) are included. Patients admitted during the pandemic (mean age of 67 ± 14 years) had a mean Glasgow−Blatchford score of 10.8 ± 3.9. They were older (p = 0.045) with more underlying malignancies (p = 0.028), had less history of NSAID use (p = 0.010), had a lower platelet count (p = 0.007), and had lower serum albumin levels (p = 0.047) compared to those admitted before the pandemic. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) was performed less frequently during the pandemic (43.3% vs. 95.4%, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the procedure was less likely to be performed within 24 h after admission (p < 0.001). After PSM, admissions during the pandemic were significantly associated with decreased chances of receiving an endoscopy (adjusted odds Ratio (OR), 0.02; 95% CI, 0.003−0.06, p < 0.001) and longer hospital stay (adjusted OR, 2.17; 95% CI, 1.13−3.20, p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a slight increase in 30-day mortality without statistical significance (adjusted OR, 1.92; 95% CI, 0.71−5.19, p = 0.199) and a marginally higher rebleeding rate (adjusted OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 0.44−4.03, p = 0.605). During the pandemic, the number of EGDs performed in non-COVID-19 patients with UGIB decreased with a subsequent prolonged hospitalization and potentially increased 30-day mortality and rebleeding rate.

Forrest Classification for Bleeding Peptic Ulcer: A New Look at the Old Endoscopic Classification

The management of peptic ulcer bleeding is clinically challenging. For decades, the Forrest classification has been used for risk stratification for nonvariceal ulcer bleeding. The perception and interpretation of the Forrest classification vary among different endoscopists. The relationship between the bleeder and ulcer images and the different stages of the Forrest classification has not been studied yet. Endoscopic still images of 276 patients with peptic ulcer bleeding for the past 3 years were retrieved and reviewed. The intra-rater agreement and inter-rater agreement were compared. The obtained endoscopic images were manually drawn to delineate the extent of the ulcer and bleeding area. The areas of the region of interest were compared between the different stages of the Forrest classification. A total of 276 images were first classified by two experienced tutor endoscopists. The images were reviewed by six other endoscopists. A good intra-rater correlation was observed (0.92–0.98). A good inter-rater correlation was observed among the different levels of experience (0.639–0.859). The correlation was higher among tutor and junior endoscopists than among experienced endoscopists. Low-risk Forrest IIC and III lesions show distinct patterns compared to high-risk Forrest I, IIA, or IIB lesions. We found good agreement of the Forrest classification among different endoscopists in a single institution. This is the first study to quantitively analyze the obtained and explain the distinct patterns of bleeding ulcers from endoscopy images.

Comparisons of six endoscopy independent scoring systems for the prediction of clinical outcomes for elderly and younger patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding

OBJECTIVES

To compare the predictive ability of six pre-endoscopic scoring systems (ABC, AIMS65, GBS, MAP(ASH), pRS, and T-score) for outcomes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in elderly and younger patients.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 1260 patients, including 530 elderly patients (age [Formula: see text] 65) and 730 younger patients (age < 65) presenting with UGIB, was performed at Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, from January 2015 to December 2020. Six scoring systems were used.

RESULTS

ABC had the largest areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.827 (0.792-0.858), and 0.958 (0.929-0.987) for elderly and younger groups for predicting mortality respectively. The differences of the AUCs for predicting the outcome of mortality and rebleeding between the two groups were significant for ABC and pRS (p < 0.01). For intervention prediction, significant differences were observed only for pRS [AUC 0.623 (0.578-0.669) vs. 0.699 (0.646-0.752)] (p < 0.05) between the two groups. For intensive care unit (ICU) admission, the AUC for MAP (ASH) [0.791 (0.718-0.865) vs. 0.891 (0.831-0.950)] and pRS [0.610 (0.514-0.706) vs. 0.891 (0.699-0.865)] were more effective for the younger group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). For comparison of scoring systems in the same cohort, ABC was significantly higher than pRS: AUC 0.710 (0.699-0.853, p < 0.05) and T-score 0.670 (0.628-0.710, p < 0.01) for predicting mortality in the elderly group. In the younger group, ABC was significantly higher than GBS and T-score (p < 0.01). MAP(ASH) performs the best in predicting intervention in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

ABC and pRS are more accurate for predicting mortality and rebleeding in the younger cohort, and pRS may not be suitable for elderly patients. There was no difference between the two study populations for GBS, AIMS65, and T-score. Except for ICU admission, MAP(ASH) showed fair accuracy for both cohorts.

AGA Clinical Practice Update on De-Prescribing of Proton Pump Inhibitors: Expert Review

DESCRIPTION

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most commonly used medications in the world. Developed for the treatment and prevention of acid-mediated upper gastrointestinal conditions, these agents are being used increasingly for indications where their benefits are less certain. PPI overprescription imposes an economic cost and contributes to polypharmacy. In addition, PPI use has been increasingly linked to a number of adverse events (PPI-associated adverse events [PAAEs]). Therefore, de-prescribing of PPIs is an important strategy to lower pill burden while reducing real costs and theoretical risks. The purpose of this clinical update was to provide Best Practice Advice (BPA) statements about how to approach PPI de-prescribing in ambulatory patients.

METHODS

Our guiding principle was that, although PPIs are generally safe, patients should not use any medication when there is not a reasonable expectation of benefit based on scientific evidence or prior treatment response. Prescribers are responsible for determining whether PPI use is absolutely or conditionally indicated and, when uncertainty exists, to incorporate patient perspectives into PPI decision making. We collaboratively outlined a high-level "process map" of the conceptual approach to de-prescribing PPIs in a clinical setting. We identified the following 3 key domains that required BPA guidance: documentation of PPI indication; identifying suitable candidates for consideration of de-prescribing; and optimizing successful de-prescribing. Co-authors drafted 1 or more potential BPAs, supported by literature review, for each domain. All co-authors reviewed, edited, and selected or rejected draft BPAs for inclusion in the final list submitted to the American Gastroenterological Association Governing Board. Because this was not a systematic review, we did not carry out a formal rating of the quality of evidence or strength of the presented considerations. Best Practice Advice Statements BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: All patients taking a PPI should have a regular review of the ongoing indications for use and documentation of that indication. This review should be the responsibility of the patient's primary care provider. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: All patients without a definitive indication for chronic PPI should be considered for trial of de-prescribing. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: Most patients with an indication for chronic PPI use who take twice-daily dosing should be considered for step down to once-daily PPI. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: Patients with complicated gastroesophageal reflux disease, such as those with a history of severe erosive esophagitis, esophageal ulcer, or peptic stricture, should generally not be considered for PPI discontinuation. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: Patients with known Barrett's esophagus, eosinophilic esophagitis, or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis should generally not be considered for a trial of de-prescribing. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: PPI users should be assessed for upper gastrointestinal bleeding risk using an evidence-based strategy before de-prescribing. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: Patients at high risk for upper gastrointestinal bleeding should not be considered for PPI de-prescribing. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 8: Patients who discontinue long-term PPI therapy should be advised that they may develop transient upper gastrointestinal symptoms due to rebound acid hypersecretion. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 9: When de-prescribing PPIs, either dose tapering or abrupt discontinuation can be considered. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 10: The decision to discontinue PPIs should be based solely on the lack of an indication for PPI use, and not because of concern for PAAEs. The presence of a PAAE or a history of a PAAE in a current PPI user is not an independent indication for PPI withdrawal. Similarly, the presence of underlying risk factors for the development of an adverse event associated with PPI use should also not be an independent indication for PPI withdrawal.

Evaluation of the visibility of bleeding points using red dichromatic imaging in endoscopic hemostasis for acute GI bleeding (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We aimed to clarify whether red dichromatic imaging (RDI), a new type of image-enhanced endoscopy, improves the visibility of bleeding points in acute GI bleeding (AGIB) compared with white-light imaging (WLI).

METHODS

Images and videos of bleeding points acquired with WLI and RDI during endoscopic hemostasis for AGIB were retrospectively compared. In images, the color difference between bleeding points and surrounding blood was analyzed. In videos, 4 expert and 4 trainee endoscopists evaluated the visibility on a scale of 1 (undetectable) to 4 (easily detectable). Furthermore, the correlation between the color difference and visibility score was evaluated.

RESULTS

We analyzed 64 lesions. The color difference was significantly higher in RDI (13.11 ± 4.02) than in WLI (7.38 ± 3.68, P < .001). The mean visibility score for all endoscopists was significantly higher in RDI (3.12 ± .51) compared with WLI (2.72 ± .50, P < .001); this was also observed in experts (3.18 ± .51 vs 2.79 ± .54, P < .001) and trainees (3.05 ± .54 vs 2.64 ± .47, P < .001). The color difference and visibility score were moderately correlated for all endoscopists (γ = .56, P < .001) and for experts (γ = .53, P < .001) and trainees (γ = .57, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

RDI improves the visibility of bleeding points in AGIB compared with WLI. RDI can help endoscopists at all levels of experience to recognize bleeding points by enhancing the color contrast relative to surrounding blood.

Acute Upper Non-variceal and Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a common surgical emergency requiring hospital admission and associated with high morbidity and mortality. Appropriate decision-making is essential to make a prompt diagnosis, accurate risk assessment, and proper resuscitation of patients with gastrointestinal bleeding. Despite multiple randomized trials and meta-analyses, there is still controversy on various management issues like appropriate risk stratification, the timing of endoscopy, choosing an appropriate endoscopic, and radiological intervention in these groups of patients. As the usage of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antiplatelet, and antithrombotic agents is common in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding, the physician is challenged with proper management of these drugs. The present review summarizes the current strategies for risk stratification, localization of bleeding source, endoscopic and radiological intervention in patients with acute nonvariceal upper GI, middle GI, and lower GI bleeding.

How Can Patient's Risk Dictate the Timing of Endoscopy in Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding?

INTRODUCTION

Although upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) management has improved substantially in the last decades, there is still much controversy regarding the optimal timing for performance of endoscopy. Recent guidelines suggest performing an early endoscopy within 24 h of nonvariceal UGIB (NVUGIB) presentation, although its impact on patients with different bleeding risks remains unclear.

AIM

To evaluate the impact of performing endoscopy within 24 h on NVUGIB outcomes and to compare it in patients with lower-risk vs. higher-risk bleeding.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study including consecutive patients undergoing upper endoscopy for suspected NVUGIB over 4 years. Demographic, clinical, biochemical, endoscopic, and outcome data were collected. Lower-risk bleeding was defined as a Glasgow-Blatchford score (GBS) <12 and higher-risk bleeding was defined as a GBS ≥12.

RESULTS

A total of 298 patients with suspected NVUGIB were included, 55% of whom had higher-risk bleeding. Endoscopy was performed within 24 h in 62.1% of the patients. In lower-risk bleeding patients, performance of endoscopy within 24 h was associated with a higher need for endoscopic treatment (OR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.2-5.7; p = 0.004), a lower 30-day mortality (OR = 0.41; 95% CI 0.27-0.63; p = 0.03), and a lower need for transfusion (OR = 0.58; 95% CI 0.36-0.92; p = 0.02). In higher-risk bleeding patients, there were no statistically significant differences in NVUGIB outcomes in performing endoscopy within 24 h.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopy within 24 h of presentation was associated with a lower need for transfusion, a higher need for endoscopic treatment, and a lower 30-day mortality in lower-risk NVUGIB patients. Thus, performing endoscopy within the first 24 h of presentation can have a positive impact on NVUGIB outcomes even in lower-risk bleeding.

Risk Stratification in Cancer Patients with Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Comparison of Glasgow-Blatchford, Rockall and AIMS65, and Development of a New Scoring System

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Few studies have measured the accuracy of prognostic scores for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) among cancer patients. Thereby, we compared the prognostic scores for predicting major outcomes in cancer patients with UGIB. Secondarily, we developed a new model to detect patients who might require hemostatic care.

METHODS

A prospective research was performed in a tertiary hospital by enrolling cancer patients admitted with UGIB. Clinical and endoscopic findings were obtained through a prospective database. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to gauge the power of each score.

RESULTS

From April 2015 to May 2016, 243 patients met the inclusion criteria. The AIMS65 (area under the curve [AUC] 0.85) best predicted intensive care unit admission, while the Glasgow-Blatchford score best predicted blood transfusion (AUC 0.82) and the low-risk group (AUC 0.92). All scores failed to predict hemostatic therapy and rebleeding. The new score was superior (AUC 0.74) in predicting hemostatic therapy. The AIMS65 (AUC 0.84) best predicted in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSION

The scoring systems for prognostication were validated in the group of cancer patients with UGIB. A new score was developed to predict hemostatic therapy. Following this result, future prospective research should be performed to validate the new score.

Pros and Cons of Performing Early Endoscopy in Geriatric Patients Admitted with Non-variceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Analysis of the US National Inpatient Database

BACKGROUND

Age greater than 65 years is a well-defined risk factor for increased mortality in patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVGIB). Endoscopy is indicated in most patients at any age but presents unique risks in the elderly cohort, and ideal timing is unclear. This study examined the association between outcomes and early (within 24 h) esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) among elderly patients with NVGIB.

METHODS

All patients over age 65 admitted primarily for NVGIB who underwent EGD were included from the National Inpatient Sample 2016-2017. Clinical outcomes stratified by early EGD versus late EGD were compared after adjustment for comorbidities and bleeding severity using inverse probability of treatment weighting with survey-adjusted linear and logistic regression.

RESULTS

Out of estimated 625,530 admissions with a primary diagnosis of NVGIB, 120,835 met eligibility criteria; 24,830 underwent early EGD. Mean length of stay and total charges decreased by 1.17 days (95%CI 1.04-1.30, P < 0.001) and $5717.24 (95%CI 4034.57-7399.91, P < 0.001), respectively, in the early EGD group. Early EGD increased the odds ratio of death 1.32 (95%CI 1.06-1.64, P 0.01) and transfer to other hospitals 1.48 (95%CI 1.22-1.81, P < 0.001). No change was seen in the requirement for surgery or angiography. Rates of discharge to a nursing facility or home health were similar.

CONCLUSION

In a comprehensive cohort of geriatric patients with NVGIB, early EGD is associated with decreased hospital stay and charges, but also with increased mortality and inter-hospital transfer. Further research is needed to determine the optimal management of this vulnerable population.

Development and validation of a model to predict rebleeding within three days after endoscopic hemostasis for high-risk peptic ulcer bleeding

BACKGROUND

Peptic ulcer bleeding remains a typical medical emergency with significant morbidity and mortality. Peptic ulcer rebleeding often occurs within three days after emergent endoscopic hemostasis. Our study aims to develop a nomogram to predict rebleeding within three days after emergent endoscopic hemostasis for high-risk peptic ulcer bleeding.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 386 patients with bleeding ulcers and high-risk stigmata who underwent emergent endoscopic hemostasis between March 2014 and October 2018. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method was used to identify predictors. The model was displayed as a nomogram. Internal validation was carried out using bootstrapping. The model was evaluated using the calibration plot, decision-curve analyses, and clinical impact curve.

RESULTS

Overall, 386 patients meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled, with 48 patients developed rebleeding within three days after initial endoscopic hemostasis. Predictors contained in the nomogram included albumin, prothrombin time, shock, haematemesis/melena and Forrest classification. The model showed good discrimination and good calibration with a C-index of 0.854 (C-index: 0.830 via bootstrapping validation). Decision-curve analyses and clinical impact curve also demonstrated that it was clinically valuable.

CONCLUSION

This study presents a nomogram that incorporates clinical, laboratory, and endoscopic features, effectively predicting rebleeding within three days after emergent endoscopic hemostasis and identifying high-risk rebleeding patients with peptic ulcer bleeding. Trial registration This clinical trial has been registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04895904) approved by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE).

When Can we Feed after a Gastrointestinal Bleed?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding can carry minimal or significant risk for recurrent hemorrhage. Timing of feeding after GI bleeding remains an area of debate, and here we review the evidence supporting recommendations.

RECENT FINDINGS

Improved understanding of the pathophysiology of GI bleeding and the evolution of treatment strategies has significantly altered the management of GI bleeding and the associated propensity for rebleeding. Early feeding following peptic ulcer bleeding remains ill-advised for high risk lesions while early initiation of liquid diets following cessation of esophageal variceal bleeding is appropriate and shortens hospital stays. Time to feeding following GI bleeding is inherently based on the disease etiology, severity, and risk of recurrent hemorrhage. With evolving standards of care, rates of rebleeding following endoscopic hemostasis are decreasing. Some evidence exists for early feeding however, larger multi-center trials are needed to help optimize timing of feeding in higher risk lesions.

Intermittent Versus Continuous Infusion Dosing of Intravenous Proton Pump Inhibitors for Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) continuous infusions or intermittent boluses are used for the treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Intermittent boluses are easier to give and are of lower cost without affecting clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the rate of rebleeding between intermittent bolus and continuous infusion PPI therapy.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective, multicenter review of patients with UGIB receiving either continuous or intermittent PPI therapy. During the study period, due to drug and supply shortages, each institution implemented policies preferring intermittent PPI bolus therapy. We performed bivariate and multivariable comparisons of the 2 treatment strategies, with the primary outcome of interest being incidence of rebleeding. Additional variables of interest included intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital lengths of stay, discharge disposition, and in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

Compared with intermittent bolus dosing (n = 209), patients receiving continuous infusion PPI (n = 237) were associated with a higher rate of rebleeding (33.8% vs 23.0%; P = 0.012); however, no difference was detected in multivariable analysis: adjusted odds ratio, 1.50 (95% confidence interval, 0.91-2.50). There was no difference in median hospital or ICU length of stay, discharge disposition, or in-hospital mortality. Correlatively, patients receiving continuous infusion therapy were more likely to have liver disease (29.1% vs 20.1%; P = 0.028), alcohol use disorder (28.3% vs 16.3.%; P = 0.003), history of lower gastrointestinal bleeding (6.4% vs 1.9%; P = 0.021), variceal bleeding (6.3 vs 2.4%, P = 0.045), and be admitted to the ICU (65.0% vs 32.5%, P = 0.00).

CONCLUSIONS

Introduction of intermittent PPI bolus UGIB treatment via change in hospital policy was not associated with higher rates of rebleeding. However, continuous PPI therapy may have been perceived as more effective as it was used more commonly in high-risk patients.

Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a common clinical entity. Expert management of acute GIB requires collaborative care between internists and other specialists. This article reviews the presentation, treatment, and prevention of acute GIB using recommendations from recent guidelines and expert panel reviews. The article acknowledges the pivotal role played by primary care providers in the inpatient and outpatient management of acute GIB.

The risk factors for the recurrent upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage among acute peptic ulcer disease patients in Syria: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a life-threatening medical emergency characterized by bleeding from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. This study aims to analyze the risk factors for upper gastrointestinal tract rebleeding among acute peptic ulcer patients.

METHODS

This is a cohort clinical study conducted between July 2018 and June 2020. Patients admitted or hospitalized because of UGIB or developed it during their hospital stay were included.s The patients were divided into two groups for the statistical analysis using Forrest's ulcer rebleeding risk classification. Group 1: Forrest 1a+1b+2a+2b, and group 2: Forrest 2c+3. The fasting time before the endoscopic procedure was from 12 to 24 hours. Follow-ups were conducted for 30 days after the treatment.

RESULTS

The total number of included subjects was 152, out of which 57.89% (n = 88) were male patients. The mean SD for patients' age was 52.63 16.89±; more than 40% (n = 62) of subjects were using antiplatelet medications, while only 13.15% (n = 20) used NSAIDs, and the mean SD for the transferred units was 2.32 ± 1.88, 7.24% (n = 11) of patients died. After 30 days of the treatment, 6.57% (n = 10) of patients suffered from recurrent bleeding. The most common presentation was melena 67.95% (n = 103), 53% (n = 81) of patients had hematemesis, 69.73% (n = 106) patients had gastric ulcer and 30.26% (n = 46) had duodenal ulcers.

CONCLUSION

Age, NSAIDs, altered mental capacity, Forrest classification (Ia,Ib, and IIa), and blood transfusion were associated with a higher risk of rebleeding. Furthermore, patients who needed 3.83 blood units were at higher risk of recurrent bleeding.

Co-prescription of Dual-Antiplatelet Therapy and Proton Pump Inhibitors: Current Guidelines

Dual-antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) prevents thrombotic complications associated with coronary artery disease, acute coronary syndrome, and stent thrombosis following the percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass grafting. When initiating DAPT, the risk of thrombosis must be balanced with the increased risk of upper gastrointestinal bleed (UGIB). Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are concurrently prescribed with DAPT to reduce bleeding risk. In this review, we discuss the benefits and potential complications of DAPT/PPI co-prescription. The only large international randomized control trial (RCT), Clopidogrel and the Optimization of Gastrointestinal Events Trial (COGENT), shows robust evidence that PPIs are a safe and effective method to reduce the risk of bleeding in patients on DAPT. However, more large-scale RCTs are needed to study potential long-term effects and draw a stronger conclusion on this topic.

Evaluation of Six Preendoscopy Scoring Systems to Predict Outcomes for Older Adults with Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Objectives

To compare the ability of six preendoscopic scoring systems (ABC, AIMS65, Glasgow Blatchford score (GBS), MAP(ASH), pRS, and T-score) to predict outcomes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in older adults.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 602 older adults (age ≥ 65) presenting with UGIB at Zhongda Hospital Southeast University from January 2015 to June 2021. Six scoring systems were used to analyze all patients.

Results

ABC had the largest area under the curve (AUC) (0.833; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.801–0.862) and was significantly higher than pRS 0.696 (95% CI: 0.658–0.733, p < 0.01) and T-score 0.667 (95% CI: 0.628–0.704, p < 0.01) in predicting mortality. MAP(ASH) (0.783; 95% CI: 0.748–0.815) performs the best in predicting intervention and was similar to GBS, T-score, ABC, and AIMS65. The AUCs for MAP(ASH) (0.732; 95% CI: 0.698–0.770), AIMS65 (0.711; 95% CI: 0.672–0.746), and ABC (0.718; 95% CI: 0.680–0.754) were fair for rebleeding, while those of GBS (0.662; 95% CI: 0.617–0.694), T-score (0.641; 95% CI: 0.606–0.684), and pRS (0.609; 95% CI: 0.569–0.648) were performed poorly. MAP(ASH) performs the best in predicting ICU admission (0.784; 95% CI: 0.749–0.816). All the five scores were significantly higher than pRS (p < 0.05 for ABC, AIMS65 and T-score, p < 0.01 for GBS and MAP).

Conclusions

Mortality, intervention, rebleeding, and ICU admission in UGIB for older adults can be predicted well using MAP(ASH). ABC is the most accurate for predicting mortality. Except for rebleeding, GBS has an acceptable performance in predicting ICU admission, mortality, and intervention. AIMS65 and T-score performed moderately, and pRS may not be suitable for the target cohort.