Transluminal retroperitoneal endoscopic necrosectomy with the use of hydrogen peroxide and without external irrigation: a novel approach for the treatment of walled-off pancreatic necrosis

The 1st i-EUS consensus on the management of pancreatic fluid collections - Part 2

Pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs), including pancreatic pseudocysts (PPs) and walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WON), are common complications of pancreatitis and pancreatic surgery. Historically, the treatment of these conditions has relied on surgical and radiological approaches. The treatment of patients with PFCs has already focused toward an endoscopy-based approach, and with the development of dedicated lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS), it has almost totally shifted towards interventional Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-guided procedures. However, there is still limited consensus on several aspects of PFCs treatment within the multidisciplinary management. The interventional endoscopy and ultrasound (i-EUS) group is an Italian network of clinicians and scientists with special interest in biliopancreatic interventional endoscopy, especially interventional EUS. This manuscript focuses on the second part of the results of a consensus conference organized by i-EUS, with the aim of providing evidence-based guidance on several intra- and post-procedural aspects of PFCs drainage, such as clinical management and follow-up.

Endoscopic management of pancreatic collections. Endoscopic Ultrasound Group, Spanish Society of Digestive Endoscopy (GSEED-USE) Clinical Guidelines

Acute pancreatitis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It can develop complications such as fluid collections and necrosis. Infection of necrosis occurs in about 20-40 % of patients with severe acute pancreatitis, and is associated with organ failure and worse prognosis. In the past few years the treatment of pancreatic collections has shifted from open surgery to minimally invasive techniques such as endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage. These guidelines from a selection of experts among the Endoscopic Ultrasound Group, Spanish Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (GSEED-USE) are intended to provide advice on the management of pancreatic collections based on a thorough review of the available scientific evidence. It also reflects the experience and clinical practice of the authors, who are advanced endoscopists or clinical pancreatologists with extensive experience in managing patients with acute pancreatitis.

Efficacy and Safety of Anhydrous Ethanol-Assisted Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Transluminal Necrosectomy in Infected Necrotizing Pancreatitis

AIM

Endoscopic necrosectomy has become the first-line treatment option for infectious necrotizing pancreatitis (INP), especially walled-off necrosis. However, the problems, including operation-related adverse events (AEs) and the need for multiple endoscopic procedures, have not been effectively addressed. We sought to evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of anhydrous ethanol-assisted endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided transluminal necrosectomy in INP.

METHODS

A single-center observational cohort study of INP patients was conducted in a tertiary endoscopic center. Anhydrous ethanol-assisted EUS-guided transluminal necrosectomy (modified group) and conventional endoscopic necrosectomy (conventional group) were retrospectively compared in INP patients. The technical and clinical success rates, operation time, perioperative AEs, postoperative hospital stay, and recurrent INP rates were analyzed, respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 55 patients were enrolled. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding baseline characteristics. Compared to patients in the conventional group, patients in the modified group demonstrated significantly reduced times of endoscopic transluminal necrosectomies (1.96 ± 0.89 vs. 2.73 ± 0.98; P = 0.004) and comparable perioperative AEs (P = 0.35). Meanwhile, no statistically significant differences were observed in the technical and clinical success rates (P = 0.92), operation time (P = 0.59), postoperative hospital stay (P = 0.36), and recurrent INP rates (P = 1.00) between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Anhydrous ethanol-assisted EUS-guided transluminal necrosectomy seemed safe and effective in treating INP. Compared with conventional endoscopic transluminal necrosectomy, its advantage was mainly in reducing the number of endoscopic necrosectomies without increasing perioperative AEs.

Efficacy and Safety of Anhydrous Ethanol-Assisted Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Transluminal Necrosectomy in Infected Necrotizing Pancreatitis

AIM

Endoscopic necrosectomy has become the first-line treatment option for infectious necrotizing pancreatitis (INP), especially walled-off necrosis. However, the problems, including operation-related adverse events (AEs) and the need for multiple endoscopic procedures, have not been effectively addressed. We sought to evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of anhydrous ethanol-assisted endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided transluminal necrosectomy in INP.

METHODS

A single-center observational cohort study of INP patients was conducted in a tertiary endoscopic center. Anhydrous ethanol-assisted EUS-guided transluminal necrosectomy (modified group) and conventional endoscopic necrosectomy (conventional group) were retrospectively compared in INP patients. The technical and clinical success rates, operation time, perioperative AEs, postoperative hospital stay, and recurrent INP rates were analyzed, respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 55 patients were enrolled. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding baseline characteristics. Compared to patients in the conventional group, patients in the modified group demonstrated significantly reduced times of endoscopic transluminal necrosectomies (1.96 ± 0.89 vs. 2.73 ± 0.98; P = 0.004) and comparable perioperative AEs (P = 0.35). Meanwhile, no statistically significant differences were observed in the technical and clinical success rates (P = 0.92), operation time (P = 0.59), postoperative hospital stay (P = 0.36), and recurrent INP rates (P = 1.00) between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Anhydrous ethanol-assisted EUS-guided transluminal necrosectomy seemed safe and effective in treating INP. Compared with conventional endoscopic transluminal necrosectomy, its advantage was mainly in reducing the number of endoscopic necrosectomies without increasing perioperative AEs.

Endoscopic transluminal drainage and necrosectomy for infected necrotizing pancreatitis: Progress and challenges

Infected necrotizing pancreatitis (INP) represents a severe condition in patients with acute pancreatitis. Invasive interventions are recommended in symptomatic INP. Growing evidence has suggested interventional strategies of INP evolving from traditional surgery to minimally invasive step-up endoscopic procedures. However, there is still no standardized protocol for endoscopic interventions. Recently, various studies have been published about the endoscopic management of INP. This article reviews published articles and guidelines to present the progress and challenges of endoscopic transluminal drainage and necrosectomy in INP.

Supportive treatment during the periprocedural period of endoscopic treatment for pancreatic fluid collections: a critical review of current knowledge and future perspectives

Pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) commonly develop as complications of acute pancreatitis and ductal disruption due to chronic pancreatitis. In the revised Atlanta classification, PFCs were classified based on the presence of necrosis and duration following the onset of acute pancreatitis. Interventions are required in cases of symptomatic pancreatic pseudocysts or walled-off necrosis (WON). In the management of these PFCs, endoscopic ultrasound-guided transluminal drainage and subsequent direct endoscopic necrosectomy for WON are increasingly utilized as less invasive treatment modalities compared to surgical debridement. To date, researchers have focused predominantly on the technical aspects of endoscopic therapy for symptomatic PFCs. Given the poor physical condition of patients receiving endoscopic treatment for PFCs, systemic support may have a substantial impact on the short- and long-term outcomes of these patients. A multidisciplinary approach is required to improve the clinical outcomes of patients with infected PFCs and their associated comorbidities. However, non-interventional support during the periprocedural period of endoscopic treatment of PFCs has not been fully discussed, and there have been considerable variations in the selection of treatment options between endoscopists and centers. To address these unmet needs in the clinical management of PFCs and promote future research to improve the clinical outcomes, we conducted a review of the literature within a multicenter consortium of expert endoscopists with specific expertise in the endoscopic treatment of PFCs. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on non-interventional supportive care (e.g., continuous lavage, medications, nutritional support, and antimicrobials) and propose potential topics for future research.

Assessing the Efficacy and Outcomes Following Irrigation with Streptokinase Versus Hydrogen Peroxide in Necrotizing Pancreatitis: A Randomized Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD's) are prone to blockage because of necrosum. To improve the efficacy of PCD, necrolytic agents have been used. The present study compared the use of Streptokinase with H₂O₂ in saline irrigation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a single-center randomized pilot study (from July 2018 to Dec 2019). Patients with infected pancreatic necrosis not showing response to PCD and saline irrigation were included in the study. Patients received either Streptokinase (Streptokinase group 50,000 IU in 100 ml normal saline) or 3% H₂O₂ (3% H₂O₂ in 100 ml normal saline in 1:10 dilution). Primary endpoints were the need for surgery and mortality while secondary endpoints were hospital stay and complications attributable to necrolytic agents.

RESULTS

There were 30 patients in the study, 15 in each arm. Organ failure was seen in 23 (76.6%), single organ failure was present in 11 (47%), and multi-organ failure in 12 (53%). Bleeding complications (20% in H₂O₂ vs 6.6% in Streptokinase), need for surgery (73% in H₂O₂ vs 33.3% in Streptokinase) and mortality (60% in H₂O₂ vs 33% in Streptokinase) were higher in H₂O₂ group but the difference was not significant statistically. Post-irrigation hospital stay was lesser in the Streptokinase group compared to H₂O₂ group but the difference did not reach statistical significance (14.1 ± 7.7 vs 19.2 ± 11.7, p = 0.09) CONCLUSIONS: Streptokinase irrigation led to a trend for reduced need for necrosectomy and mortality. H₂O₂ group had more bleeding complications_. Post-irrigation hospital stay was lesser in Streptokinase group.

Hydrogen peroxide-assisted endoscopic necrosectomy of pancreatic walled-off necrosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Use of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) has been reported in direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN) of pancreatic walled-off necrosis (WON). The aim of this meta-analysis was to study the pooled clinical outcomes of H2O2-assisted DEN of pancreatic WON.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search of several databases (inception to July 2021) to identify studies reporting on the use of H2O2 in DEN of WON. A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled rates and I2 values, and 95% prediction intervals were used to assess heterogeneity. The outcomes studied were technical success, clinical success, and adverse events in H2O2-assisted DEN of pancreatic WON.

RESULTS

In 7 analyzed studies, 186 patients underwent H2O2-assisted DEN of WON. The pooled rate of technical success was 95.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 88.5-98.5), clinical success was 91.6% (95% CI, 86.1-95), and cumulative rate of overall adverse events was 19.3% (95% CI, 7.6-41). The pooled rate of bleeding was 7.9% (95% CI, 2.4-22.7), stent migration was 11.3% (95% CI, 4.9-23.9), perforation 5.4% (95% CI, 1.7-15.7), infection 5.7% (95% CI, 2-15.1), and pulmonary adverse event 2.9% (95% CI, 1.3-6.1). Mean treatment sessions ranged from 2 to 5.

CONCLUSIONS

H2O2-assisted DEN of WON demonstrated excellent clinical outcomes, with minimal heterogeneity. No adverse events attributable to H2O2 were reported. Future controlled studies are warranted comparing the clinical outcomes with and without H2O2 before H2O2 use can be established in DEN of pancreatic WON.

Hydrogen peroxide assisted endoscopic necrosectomy for walled-off pancreatic necrosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic necrosectomy (EN) is the preferred approach for management of symptomatic or infected walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN). Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) has been reported to be a good adjunctive therapy for EN. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate effectiveness and safety of H₂O₂ assisted EN for WOPN.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of multiple databases (through December 2020) was performed to identify studies that reported outcomes of H₂O₂ assisted EN for WOPN. Outcomes assessed included clinical success, technical success, and adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 454 patients with mean age (47.3 ± 7.9 years) and WOPN size (12.4 ± 3.1 cm) were included from 15 studies. The median H₂O₂ concentration was 3% (range 0.1-3%), with dilution and volume ranging from 1:1 to 10:1 and 20 ml to 1 L, respectively. The rates of technical success, clinical success and adverse events was 97.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 94.8-98.6, I² = 0), 89.8% (95% CI: 86.3-92.5, I² = 0) and 17.9% (95% CI: 12.6-24.7, I² = 38), respectively. The most common adverse event was bleeding (7.1%) followed by stent migration (5.3%). On meta-regression, WOPN size, patient age, use of metal stent, number of necrosectomies and transgastric access were not significant predictor for technical success, clinical success or adverse events.

CONCLUSION

H₂O₂ assisted EN is effective and safe for management of WOPN. Its use may be encouraged, and future randomized controlled studies are needed to study the optimal technique, concentration and best predictors of success.

Direct Endoscopic Necrosectomy: Timing and Technique

Walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN) is one of the local complications of acute pancreatitis (AP). Several interventional techniques have been developed over the last few years. The purpose of this narrative review is to explore such methodologies, with specific focus on endoscopic drainage and direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN), through evaluation of their indications and timing for intervention. Findings indicated how, after the introduction of lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS), DEN is becoming the favorite technique to treat WOPN, especially when large solid debris or infection are present. Additionally, DEN is associated with a lower adverse events rate and hospital stay, and with improved clinical outcome.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided pelvic abscess drainage: a report of 2 cases and literature review

BACKGROUND

Drainage is essential for source control of the infection in a pelvic abscess. The purpose of this study was to report 2 cases of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage of the pelvic abscess and review the literature of different modalities of EUS-guided drainage of pelvic abscess.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 60-year-old male developed a pelvic abscess 1 month after laparoscopic complete tumor resection. An abdominal CT showed a mass shadow (about 7.1 cm × 5.1 cm) in the right pelvic region. Another case was an 85-year-old male who developed a pelvic abscess 3 days after recurrent tumor resection of multiple organs. The CT showed pelvic effusion and gas accumulation (approximately 6.5 cm × 4.2 cm), and the intestinal tube above the small intestinal anastomosis was dilated with effusion. A 19G-A puncture needle was used to puncture the abscess. An 8-mm cylindrical balloon was inserted, followed by a 10 Fr-3 cm double pigtail stent and an 8.5 Fr drainage tube. After EUS-guided drainage of pelvic abscess, the symptoms disappeared without recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-guided drainage is an effective and safe method for treating pelvic abscesses as long as the drainage modality is appropriately selected based on the etiology, size, and mucus viscosity of the abscess.

Endoscopic Transmural Drainage and Necrosectomy in Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis: A Review

Acute necrotizing pancreatitis occurs in 10%-20% of patients with acute pancreatitis (AP) which is one of the most important acute abdominal diseases that require hospital admission. Pancreatic necrosis is also associated with high mortality and morbidity. In the past 20 years, the treatment of pancreatic necrosis has shifted from open necrosectomy to minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic interventions. With the development of endoscopic techniques, the safety and effectiveness of endoscopic interventions have improved, but there exist several unresolved problems. Currently, there is no unified standard approach for endoscopic treatment of pancreatic necrosis that takes into account local expertise, anatomical features of necrosis, patients' preferences, and comorbidity profile. We reviewed the current status of endoscopic therapy for acute necrotizing pancreatitis, focusing on the new endoscopic drainage technique and necrosectomy protocol.

Outcomes of a Structured, Stepwise Approach to Endoscopic Necrosectomy

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Despite the increasing number of procedures being performed, there is no consensus on the optimal approach to performing direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN), which is a labor-intensive, nonstandardized intervention. We prospectively validated the usefulness of a predefined, structured, stepwise approach to DEN with the objective of improving procedural efficiency and resource use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective study of patients with necrotizing pancreatitis who after endoscopic transluminal drainage did not have clinical improvement and required DEN. The study was undertaken in 2 phases. Phase I was a retrospective analysis of interventions performed using an unstructured, conventional approach. Median of 3 necrosectomy sessions (range, 2 to 3) were required to achieve 80% treatment success in 20 patients. On the basis of these observations, a structured approach that included 3 steps (debridement, necrosis extraction, and irrigation) was developed and validated prospectively in phase II in 39 patients. The main outcome was to compare procedural efficiency defined as a number of necrosectomy sessions to achieve treatment success.

RESULTS

Although there was no significant difference in treatment success (phase I=80.0 vs. phase II=94.9%, P=0.17), the procedure was more efficient in phase II [median session, 2 (interquartile range=1 to 3) vs. 3 (interquartile range=2 to 3); P=0.003]. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that a structured, stepwise approach was associated with fewer necrosectomy sessions to achieve treatment success (odds ratio=4.7; 95% confidence interval=1.5-15.0; P=0.008) when adjusted for patient demographics, lab parameters, and disease characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

By decreasing the number of necrosectomy sessions, a structured, stepwise approach to endoscopic necrosectomy seems to improve procedural efficiency.

Management of walled-off necrosis with nasocystic irrigation with hydrogen peroxide versus biflanged metal stent: randomized controlled trial

Background and study aims  Walled-off necrosis (WON) is a known complication of acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP). There is no study comparing nasocystic irrigation with hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) versus biflanged metal stent (BMS) in the management of WON. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy of both the treatment strategies. Patients and methods  This study was conducted on patients with symptomatic WON who were randomized to nasocystic irrigation with H 2 O 2 (Group A) and BMS placement (Group B). Primary outcomes were clinical and technical success while secondary outcomes were procedure time, adverse events, need for additional procedures, duration of hospitalization, and mortality. Results  Fifty patients were randomized into two groups. Group A (n = 25, age 37.8 ± 17.6 years, 16 men) and Group B (n = 25, age 41.8 ± 15.2 years, 17 men). There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. The most common etiology of pancreatitis was alcohol, observed in 27 (54 %) patients. Technical success (100 % vs 96 %, P  = 0.98), clinical success (84 % vs 76 %, P  = 0.76), requirement of additional procedures (16 % vs 24 %, P  = 0.70) and adverse events (4 vs 7, P  = 0.06) were comparable in both the groups. The duration to clinical success (34.4 ± 12 vs 14.8 ± 10.8 days, P  = 0.001) and procedure time (36 ± 15 vs 18 ± 12 minutes, P  = 0.01) were longer in Group A compared to Group B. Conclusions  Nasocystic irrigation with H 2 O 2 and BMS are equally effective in the management of WON but time to clinical success and procedure time is longer with nasocystic irrigation.

Direct Endoscopic Necrosectomy With and Without Hydrogen Peroxide for Walled-off Pancreatic Necrosis: A Multicenter Comparative Study

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic necrosectomy has emerged as the preferred treatment modality for walled-off pancreatic necrosis. This study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of direct endoscopic necrosectomy with and without hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) lavage.

METHODS

Retrospective chart reviews were performed for all patients undergoing endoscopic transmural management of walled-off pancreatic necrosis at 9 major medical centers from November 2011 to August 2018. Clinical success was defined as the resolution of the collection by imaging within 6 months, without requiring non-endoscopic procedures or surgery.

RESULTS

Of 293 patients, 204 met the inclusion criteria. Technical and clinical success rates were 100% (204/204) and 81% (166/189), respectively. For patients, 122 (59.8%) patients had at least one H2O2 necrosectomy (H2O2 group) and 82 (40.2%) patients had standard endoscopic necrosectomy. Clinical success was higher in the H2O2 group: 106/113 (93.8%) vs 60/76 (78.9%), P = 0.002. On a multivariate analysis, the use of H2O2 was associated with higher clinical success rate (odds ratio 3.30, P = 0.033) and earlier resolution (odds ratio 2.27, P < 0.001). During a mean follow-up of 274 days, 27 complications occurred. Comparing procedures performed with and without H2O2 (n = 250 vs 183), there was no difference in post-procedure bleeding (7 vs 9, P = 0.25), perforation (2 vs 3, P = 0.66), infection (1 vs 2, P = 0.58), or overall complication rate (n = 13 [5.2%] vs 14 [7.7%], P = 0.30).

DISCUSSION

H2O2-assisted endoscopic necrosectomy had a higher clinical success rate and a shorter time to resolution with equivalent complication rates relative to standard necrosectomy.See the visual abstract at http://links.lww.com/AJG/B714.(Equation is included in full-text article.).

International, multicenter retrospective trial comparing the efficacy and safety of bi-flanged versus lumen-apposing metal stents for endoscopic drainage of walled-off pancreatic necrosis

Background

To compare fully covered bi-flanged metal stents (BFMS) and lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage/debridement of pancreatic walled-off necrosis (WON).

Methods

Patients with WON managed by EUS-guided therapy were divided into those who underwent: 1) drainage using BFMS; and 2) drainage using LAMS and scheduled direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN). Clinical success (resolution of the WON), technical success (successful stent placement), and adverse events (AEs) were evaluated.

Results

387 patients underwent WON endoscopic drainage, 205 using BFMS and 182 using LAMS. The clinical success in the BFMS or LAMS groups were similar (197 [96.1%] vs. 174 [95.6%]; P=0.81). Median number of procedures required for WON resolution was significantly lower in BFMS compared to LAMS (2 vs. 3, P<0.001). Technical success for stent placement was similar in BFMS and LAMS groups (203 [99%] vs. 180 [99%], P=0.90). Procedure-related AEs were similar in the BFMS and LAMS groups (19 [9.3%] vs. 20 [10.9%], P=0.61). Stent dysfunction with occluding debris was higher in the BFMS group compared to LAMS group (21 [10.2 %] vs. 11 [5.9%], P=0.04). The migration rate was higher in the BFMS group than in the LAMS group (15 [7.3%] vs. 3 [1.6%]; P<0.001). DEN was required in 23 [11.2%] patients in the BFMS group after lack of WON resolution by conservative means.

Conclusion

BFMS with a “step-up approach” and LAMS with scheduled DEN are both safe and effective for EUS-guided drainage/debridement of WON.

Evaluation of hydrogen peroxide-assisted endoscopic ultrasonography-guided necrosectomy in walled-off pancreatic necrosis: A single-center experience

Hydrogen peroxide is a liquid that functions in mechanical removal of the necrotic tissue via the elimination of tissue debris.In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of hydrogen peroxide in necrosectomy treatment of walled-off pancreatic necrosis.Records of 24 patients who were diagnosed with pancreatic necrosis or walled-off pancreatic necrosis and underwent endoscopic necrosectomy (EN) were retrospectively assessed. Patients were divided into 2 groups; hydrogen peroxide used for treatment or not used, and these 2 groups were compared.A total of 24 patients underwent endoscopic intervention for walled-off pancreatic necrosis. Procedural success was comparable between the 2 groups. During the post-procedural follow-up, the duration of the hospital stay, recurrence, and complication rates were found to be similar in both groups. The mean number of the endoscopic interventions was significantly lower in the hydrogen peroxide group (4.2 ± 1.4 vs 6.1 ± 4.2; P = .01).The use of hydrogen peroxide for EN in walled-off pancreatic necrosis patients seems to have similar efficiency and safety. However, it can be said that the use of hydrogen peroxide could reduce the number of endoscopic procedures.

The role of endoscopic therapy in the minimally invasive management of pancreatic necrosis

Pancreatic necrosis is among the most frequently encountered local complications of acute pancreatitis and associates with severe disease. Infected pancreatic necrosis further enhances the risk for morbidity and mortality. Pancreatic fluid collections that result from pancreatic necrosis evolve from acute necrotic collections to walled off necrosis and are defined by their distinct characteristics on cross sectional imaging. A variety of interventions spanning multiple disciplines are available for the drainage and debridement of pancreatic necrosis. Prospective, randomized trials have identified management strategies that incorporate minimally invasive interventions as having the best outcomes for patients with symptomatic pancreatic necrosis. The scientific literature has confidently positioned endoscopic drainage and necrosectomy among the most effective interventions for patients with symptomatic walled off necrosis. Innovations such as the use of metallic stents, chemical debridement and multiple modalities for drainage of pancreatic necrosis show promise in improving outcomes for patients managed with endoscopic interventions.

Preliminary report on the safety and utility of a novel automated mechanical endoscopic tissue resection tool for endoscopic necrosectomy: a case series

Background and study aims  Endoscopic drainage of walled-off necrosis and subsequent endoscopic necrosectomy has been shown to be an effective step-up management strategy in patients with acute necrotizing pancreatitis. One of the limitations of this endoscopic approach however, is the lack of dedicated and effective instruments to remove necrotic tissue. We aimed to evaluate the technical feasibility, safety, and clinical outcome of the EndoRotor, a novel automated mechanical endoscopic tissue resection tool, in patients with necrotizing pancreatitis. Methods  Patients with infected necrotizing pancreatitis in need of endoscopic necrosectomy after initial cystogastroscopy, were treated using the EndoRotor. Procedures were performed under conscious or propofol sedation by six experienced endoscopists. Technical feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes were evaluated and scored. Operator experience was assessed by a short questionnaire. Results  Twelve patients with a median age of 60.6 years, underwent a total of 27 procedures for removal of infected pancreatic necrosis using the EndoRotor. Of these, nine patients were treated de novo. Three patients had already undergone unsuccessful endoscopic necrosectomy procedures using conventional tools. The mean size of the walled-off cavities was 117.5 ± 51.9 mm. An average of two procedures (range 1 - 7) per patient was required to achieve complete removal of necrotic tissue with the EndoRotor. No procedure-related adverse events occurred. Endoscopists deemed the device to be easy to use and effective for safe and controlled removal of the necrosis. Conclusions  Initial experience with the EndoRotor suggests that this device can safely, rapidly, and effectively remove necrotic tissue in patients with (infected) walled-off pancreatic necrosis.

Endoscopic Management of Acute Biliopancreatic Disorders

PURPOSE

Endoscopy is playing an ever-increasing role in the management of acute biliopancreatic disorders. With the management paradigm shifting away from more invasive surgical approaches, surgeons need to be aware of the treatment options available to improve patient care. Our manuscript serves to improve surgeons' knowledge and understanding of these emerging treatment modalities to expand their algorithmic approach to biliopancreatic disorders.

METHODS

Specific acute biliopancreatic disorders were identified from the literature and personal practice to create a structured review of common problems experienced by a surgeon of the gastrointestinal tract. An exhaustive literature review was performed to identify and analyze endoscopic treatment modalities for these disorders.

RESULTS

Endoscopic therapies continue to expand rapidly with a robust supportive literature. Data on endoscopic treatment strategies for acute biliopancreatic disorders demonstrate valuable improvements in outcomes in a number of these disorders.

DISCUSSION

Acute biliopancreatic disorders represent one of the most challenging pathophysiologies that a surgeon of the gastrointestinal tract may face. This manuscript represents a review of available endoscopic instrumentation as well as the author's interpretation of the current literature regarding indications and outcomes of endoscopic management for acute biliopancreatic disorders. Although this article does not supplant formal training in therapeutic endoscopy, surgeons reading this article should understand the role endoscopy plays in the management of acute biliopancreatic disorders.

Current Concepts in Severe Acute and Necrotizing Pancreatitis: An Evidence-Based Approach

The incidence of acute pancreatitis continues to rise, inducing substantial medical and social burden, with annual costs exceeding $2 billion in the United States alone. Although most patients develop mild pancreatitis, 20% develop severe and/or necrotizing pancreatitis, requiring advanced medical and interventional care. Morbidity resulting from local and systemic complications as well as invasive interventions result in mortality rates historically as high as 30%. There has been substantial evolution of strategies for interventions in recent years, from open surgery to minimally invasive surgical and endoscopic step-up approaches. In contrast to the advances in invasive procedures for complications, early management still lacks curative options and consists of adequate fluid resuscitation, analgesics, and monitoring. Many challenges remain, including comprehensive management of the entire spectrum of the disease, which requires close involvement of multiple disciplines at specialized centers.

Lumen apposing metal stents are superior to plastic stents in pancreatic walled-off necrosis: a large international multicenter study

Background and study aims  The use of lumen apposing metal stents (LAMS) during EUS-guided transmural drainage (EUS-TD) of pancreatic walled-off necrosis (WON) has gained popularity. Data supporting their use in WON over plastic stents (PS), however, remain scarce. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy of LAMS (Axios, Boston Scientific) with PS in WON. Patients and methods  This was a multicenter, retrospective study involving 14 centers. Consecutive patients who underwent EUS-TD of WON (2012 - 2016) were included. The primary end point was clinical success defined as WON size ≤ 3 cm within a 6-month period without need for percutaneous drainage (PCD) or surgery. Results  A total of 189 patients (mean age 55.2 ± 15.6 years, 34.9 % female) were included (102 LAMS and 87 PS). Technical success rates were similar: 100 % in LAMS and 98.9 % in PS ( P  = 0.28). Clinical success was attained in 80.4 % of LAMS and 57.5 % of PS ( P  = 0.001). Rate of PCD was similar (13.7 % LAMS vs. 16.3 % PS, P  = 0.62), while PS was associated with a greater need for surgery (16.1 % PS vs. 5.6 % LAMS, P  = 0.02). Adverse events (AEs) were observed in 9.8 % of LAMS and 10.3 % of PS ( P  = 0.90) and were rated as severe in 2.0 % and 6.9 %, respectively ( P  = 0.93). After excluding patients with < 6 months follow-up, the rate of WON recurrence following initial clinical success was greater with PS (22.9 % PS vs. 5.6 % LAMS, P  = 0.04). Conclusions  When compared to PS, LAMS in WON is associated with higher clinical success, shorter procedure time, lower need for surgery, and lower rate of recurrence.

Endotherapy for pancreatic necrosis: An update

Approximately 20% of patients with acute pancreatitis develop pancreatic necrosis. The presence of necrosis in a pancreatic collection significantly worsens the prognosis. Pancreatic necrosis is associated with high mortality and morbidity. In the last few decades, there has been a significant revolution in the treatment of infected pancreatic necrosis. A step-up approach has been proposed, from less invasive procedures to the operative intervention. Minimally invasive treatment modalities such as endoscopic drainage and necrosectomy, percutaneous drainage, and minimally invasive surgery have recently replaced open surgical necrosectomy as the first-line treatment option. Endoscopic intervention for pancreatic necrosis is being increasingly performed with good success and a lower complication rate. However, techniques of endotherapy are still not uniform and vary as per local expertise, and there are still many unresolved questions with regard to the interventions in patients with pancreatic necrosis. The objective of this paper is to critically review the literature and update the concepts of endoscopic interventional therapy of pancreatic necrosis.

Endoscopic Transgastric Versus Surgical Approach for Infected Necrotizing Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Surgical approach (SA) is the standard treatment for infected necrotizing pancreatitis (INP) and endoscopic transgastric approach (ETA) is a promising alternative treatment. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of ETA versus SA in INP. Several databases were systematically searched for eligible studies that compared ETA with SA for INP. Predefined criteria were used for study selection. Three reviewers independently assessed the risk of bias. Primary outcomes included clinical resolution rate, short-term mortality, major complications, and hospital stay. Study-specific effect sizes and their 95% confidence interval (CI) were combined to calculate the pooled value using fixed-effects or random-effects model. Six studies were included with 295 patients. Major complication rate [odds ratio (OR), 0.13; 95% CI, 0.06-0.29], new-onset organ failure rate (OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.12-0.54), postoperative pancreatic fistula rate (OR, 0.09; 95% CI, 0.03-0.28), and incisional hernia rate (OR, 0.10; 95% CI, 0.01-0.85) were lower in the ETA group. There was a shorter hospital stay (mean difference, -17.72; 95% CI, -21.30 to -14.13) in the ETA group. No differences were found in clinical resolution, short-term mortality, postoperative bleeding, perforation of visceral organ, and endocrine or exocrine insufficiency. Compared with SA, ETA showed comparable effectiveness and safety for the treatment of INP based on current evidence.

Endoscopic Drainage of Pancreatic Fluid Collections

Endoscopy has emerged as a mainstay in the management of pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs), representing an important advance in clinical medicine that has significantly improved the risk-benefit ratio of treating this complex patient population. While endoscopic pseudocyst drainage has generally supplanted surgical and percutaneous approaches, the optimal strategy for walled-off necrosis remains variable and multi-disciplinary despite an emerging trend from randomized trials favoring endoscopy. Although several issues pertaining to endoscopic drainage appear to have been settled - such as the use of endoscopic ultrasound - other pressing questions - including the optimal prosthesis and debridement strategy - remain unanswered, and rigorous investigation is needed. This review aims to provide an evidence-based but practical appraisal of the endoscopic drainage of PFCs through the perspective of the author, with an emphasis on relevant clinical and endoscopic considerations and important research questions.

Systematic Review of Endoscopic Cyst Gastrostomy

Since the original description of pancreatic fluid collections (PFC) in 1761 by Morgagni, their diagnosis, description, and management have continued to evolve. The mainstay of therapy for symptomatic PFCs has been the creation of a communication between a PFC and the stomach, to enable drainage. Surgical creation of these drainage conduits had been the gold standard of therapy; however, there has been a paradigm shift in recent years with an increasing role of endoscopic drainage. The techniques of endoscopic drainage have evolved from blind fluid aspiration to include endoscopic necrosectomy and the placement of lumen-apposing metal stents.

Endoscopic Management of Infected Necrotizing Pancreatitis: an Evidence-Based Approach

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Endoscopic management of infected necrotizing pancreatitis has evolved rapidly over the past years and there have been interesting innovations in this field. This review provides an update on the most recently published literature regarding endoscopic management of infected necrotizing pancreatitis.

RECENT FINDINGS

A recent randomized trial demonstrated no difference in mortality and major morbidity between endoscopic and surgical step-up treatment of infected necrotizing pancreatitis. However, endoscopic therapy resulted in shorter hospital stay and less pancreatic fistulas. Various innovations have been investigated with the aim to further optimize endoscopic therapy, in particular lumen-apposing metal stents. While major stent-related complications were also reported, findings from recent studies indicated that their use was associated with higher resolution rates of walled-off necrosis compared to double-pigtail stents. Other innovations, such as the multiple gateway technique and dual-modality mode, can be considered for treatment of particular cases. Furthermore, research suggests that irrigation of walled-off necrosis can be performed by using a nasocystic tube and discontinuation of proton-pump inhibitors may be considered. Endoscopic treatment should be the preferred treatment modality in patients with infected necrotizing pancreatitis who are eligible for endoscopic drainage. Although data suggests that lumen-apposing metal stents are superior to double-pigtail stents, prospective multicenter studies focusing on safety as well as long-term follow-up are first needed.

Pancreatic Necrosectomy through Sinus Tract Endoscopy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Direct endoscopic pancreatic necrosectomy is increasingly being utilized to treat infected or symptomatic walled-off necrosis (WON) located close to the stomach or duodenum. Laterally-placed WON has traditionally been treated surgically. We evaluated a less utilized technique of sinus tract endoscopy (STE) for symptomatic laterally-placed WON.

METHODS

Two hundred seventy-six patients with acute pancreatitis admitted in our hospital, 32 had symptomatic or infected WON requiring intervention. Of the 12 patients with laterally placed WON, 10 were treated by STE. STE was performed with a standard adult gastroscope passed through a percutaneous tract created by the placement of a 32-Fr drain.

RESULTS

Ten patients (7 males; mean age, 43.8 years) underwent STE. Mean number of sessions was 2.3 (range, 1-4), with mean time of 70 minutes for each session (range, 15-70 minutes). While 9 patients had complete success, 1 patient had fever and chose to undergo surgery. Two patients developed pneumoperitoneum, which was treated conservatively. There was no mortality, cutaneous fistula, or recurrence during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Laterally placed WON can be successfully managed by STE performed through a percutaneously placed drain. Details of the technique and end-points of STE require further evaluation.

Endoscopic Ultrasonography-guided Drainage of Pancreatic Collections, Including the Role of Necrosectomy

In recent years, the management of symptoms of pancreatic fluid collections has shifted from surgical and percutaneous interventions to endoscopic techniques. Available data show that endoscopic drainage can be achieved with minimal morbidity and procedural-related mortality, a high degree of technical and clinical success, and acceptable risk of adverse events. Although endoscopic management of walled-off necrosis provides a durable, minimally invasive treatment option, it is still generally performed only in tertiary care medical centers because of the overall complexity of this clinical scenario.

Extended Cystogastrostomy with Hydrogen Peroxide Irrigation Facilitates Endoscopic Pancreatic Necrosectomy

INTRODUCTION

Walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN) is a major complication of acute pancreatitis. We hypothesized that an extended (2 cm) cystogastrostomy opening combined with hydrogen peroxide irrigation can increase the success of endoscopic necrosectomy and decrease the number of required endoscopic interventions. The aim of the study is to assess the safety and feasibility of the technique in the management of WOPN.

METHODS

This is a retrospective chart review of all cases that underwent EUS with extended cystogastrostomy and hydrogen peroxide irrigation prior to necrosectomy in a tertiary referral medical center. Clinical success was defined as complete resolution of the cyst cavity or a cyst cavity less than 2 cm in size on follow-up imaging.

RESULTS

19 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. The mean size of the walled-off cavity was 11 + 0.9 cm. Technical success of the procedure was 100%. The median number of necrosectomy sessions was 2 (range 1 to 7). Cavity resolution was noted in 18 out of 19 patients resulting in a clinical success of 94.7%. The median follow-up period was 12 months. The adverse events rate in our cohort was 15.7%.

CONCLUSION

Extended cystogastrostomy coupled with hydrogen peroxide irrigation of WOPN cavity is safe and feasible.

Clinical impact of EUS treatment of walled-off pancreatic necrosis with dedicated devices

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

 Walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN) represents the major risk factor for sepsis-related multiple organ failure. Surgical debridement is an invasive approach associated with high rates of adverse events (AEs) and death. As an alternative, endoscopic ultrasound-guided cysto-gastro-anastomosis has emerged as an effective treatment for WOPNs. Recently a new dedicated-lumen apposing metal stent (LAMS) has been used with satisfactory results in treating peri-pancreatic fluid collections, including WOPNs. The primary outcomes of this study were to evaluate survival and clinical success. Secondary outcomes included: technical success, adverse events and recurrence rate.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

 All consecutive patients with infected WOPN between February 2014 and June 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients underwent placement of a new LAMS incorporated in an electrocautery-enhanced delivery system and direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN). DEN was performed immediately after stent deployment and repeated every 3 to 7 days until complete resolution.

RESULTS

 In the study period we treated 20 consecutive patients with infected WOPN using the new LAMS. Technical success was achieved in 95 % of patients. Clinical success was achieved in 73 % and 84.2 % of patients at 1 and 3 months, respectively. Survival rate was 84.2 % and 79 %. Mean length of hospital stay was 19 days (range 3 - 43). No AEs occurred. Patients were followed up after stent retrieval for a mean time of 554,7 days (range 70 - 986) and no recurrence was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

 DEN following "1-step, exchange-free" LAMS positioning recorded excellent results. We believe that simplicity of procedure plays a key role in terms of safety.

Necrotizing Pancreatitis: Current Management and Therapies

Acute necrotizing pancreatitis accounts for 10% of acute pancreatitis (AP) cases and is associated with a higher mortality and morbidity. Necrosis within the first 4 weeks of disease onset is defined as an acute necrotic collection (ANC), while walled off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN) develops after 4 weeks of disease onset. An infected or symptomatic WOPN requires drainage. The management of pancreatic necrosis has shifted away from open necrosectomy, as it is associated with a high morbidity, to less invasive techniques. In this review, we summarize the current management and therapies for acute necrotizing pancreatitis.

Asian consensus statements on endoscopic management of walled-off necrosis. Part 2: Endoscopic management

Walled-off necrosis (WON) is a new term for encapsulated necrotic tissue after severe acute pancreatitis. Various terminologies such as pseudocyst, necroma, pancreatic abscess, and infected necrosis were previously used in the literature, resulting in confusion. The current and past terminologies must be reconciled to meaningfully interpret past data. Recently, endoscopic necrosectomy was introduced as a treatment option and is now preferred over surgical necrosectomy when the expertise is available. However, high-quality evidence is still lacking, and there is no standard management strategy for WON. The consensus meeting aimed to clarify the diagnostic criteria for WON and the role of endoscopic interventions in its management. In the Consensus Conference, 27 experts from eight Asian countries took an active role and examined key clinical aspects of WON diagnosis and endoscopic management. Statements were crafted based on literature review and expert opinion, employing the modified Delphi method. All statements were substantiated by the level of evidence and the strength of the recommendation. We created 27 consensus statements for WON diagnosis and management, including details of endoscopic procedures. When there was not enough solid evidence to support the statements, this was clearly acknowledged to facilitate future research. Proposed management strategies were formulated and are illustrated using flow charts. These recommendations, which are based on the best current scientific evidence and expert opinion, will be useful for guiding endoscopic management of WON. Part 2 of this statement focused on the endoscopic management of WON.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided transmural drainage of infected pancreatic necrosis developing 2 years after acute pancreatitis

This is a case report of endoscopic ultrasound guided transmural drainage of a large infected pancreatic necrosis. The infected necrosis was treated by placement of a fully covered metal stent with subsequent endoscopic necrosectomy to remove solid debris. The case is notable for the fact that the patient developed infection of a long-standing and previously stable area of walled-off pancreatic necrosis 2 years after it formed. We believe this is the longest time ever reported between necrotizing pancreatitis and the development of infected pancreatic necrosis.

Endoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocysts and necrosis

Over the last several years, there have been refinements in the understanding and nomenclature regarding the natural history of acute pancreatitis. Patients with acute pancreatitis frequently develop acute pancreatic collections that, over time, may evolve into pancreatic pseudocysts or walled-off necrosis. Endoscopic management of these local complications of acute pancreatitis continues to evolve. Treatment strategies range from simple drainage of liquefied contents to repeated direct endoscopic necrosectomy of a complex necrotic collection. In patients with chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic pseudocysts may arise as a consequence of pancreatic ductal obstruction that then leads to pancreatic ductal disruption. In this review, we focus on the indications, techniques and outcomes for endoscopic therapy of pancreatic pseudocysts and walled-off necrosis.

Radiographic findings following irrigation of chronic perineal drain with hydrogen peroxide

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Hydrogen peroxide exerts direct cytotoxicity by corrosion and lipid peroxidation.

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Hydrogen peroxide exerts indirect cytotoxicity by oxygen gas formation.

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With ingestion side effects from nausea to portal venous gas and death are reported.

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We describe a patient with a transperineal drain in a chronic pelvic cavity.

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Irrigation with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) led to significant pneumoperitoneum on CT.

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Benign pneumoperitoneum is noted with irrigation of a transperineal drain with H₂O₂.

INTRODUCTION

Hydrogen peroxide is a widely available agent used for irrigation and disinfecting. With misuse, significant side effects have been noted ranging from nausea to abdominal cramping to portal venous gas, air embolism and death.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We present an 81 year old male who developed a rectovesicular fistula following radiation for metastatic prostate cancer. He had recurrent bleeding and infections and underwent a pelvic exenteration which was complicated by a persistent pelvic abscess requiring placement of a transperineal drainage catheter. After months of persistent drainage, he noted decreased output and irrigated the catheter with 3% hydrogen peroxide. He presented to the emergency room with fever, diarrhea and abdominal cramping but no rebound or guarding. CT depicted free air in the pre-sacral space extending into the retroperitoneum and diffusely throughout the peritoneum. Given his clinical exam and upon review of imaging, we assumed his radiographic findings were related to the direct instillation of hydrogen peroxide into his chronic pelvic cavity.

DISCUSSION

Hydrogen peroxide has been used therapeutically for over 100 years. Hydrogen peroxide exerts direct cytotoxicity by corrosion and lipid peroxidation and indirectly by oxygen gas formation. When the oxygen produced exceeds the solubility in the blood, arterial and venous gas embolism occur. It is this sequelae of hydrogen peroxide that is described most frequently in the literature.

CONCLUSION

Instillation of hydrogen peroxide into a chronic pelvic cavity resulted in a benign pneumoperitoneum. This effect of hydrogen peroxide is a significant and potentially treatment altering radiographic finding.

Endoscopic interventions for necrotizing pancreatitis

Interventions for necrotizing pancreatitis have undergone a paradigm shift away from open surgical necrosectomy and toward minimally invasive techniques, with endoscopic transmural drainage (ETD) and necrosectomy emerging as principle forms of treatment. Recent multicenter studies, randomized trials, evidence-based guidelines, and consensus statements have endorsed the safety and efficacy of endoscopic and other minimally invasive techniques for the treatment of walled-off necrosis. A comprehensive review of indications, standard and novel approaches, outcomes, complications, and controversies regarding ETD and necrosectomy is presented. Given the inherent challenges and associated risks, endoscopic techniques for the management of necrotizing pancreatitis should be performed at specialized multidisciplinary centers by expert endoscopists well versed in the management of necrotizing pancreatitis.

Endoscopic transluminal necrosectomy in necrotising pancreatitis: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

We performed a systematic review to assess the outcome of endoscopic transluminal necrosectomy in necrotising pancreatitis with additional focus on indication, disease severity, and methodological quality of studies.

DESIGN

We searched the literature published between January 2005 and June 2013. Cohorts, including patients with (infected) necrotising pancreatitis, undergoing endoscopic necrosectomy were included. Indication, disease severity, and methodological quality were described. The main outcomes were mortality, major complications, number of endoscopic sessions, and definitive successful treatment with endoscopic necrosectomy alone.

RESULTS

After screening 581 papers, 14 studies, including 455 patients, fulfilled the eligibility criteria. All included studies were retrospective analyses except for one randomized, controlled trial. Overall methodological quality was moderate to low (mean 5, range 2-9). Less than 50 % of studies reported on pre-procedural severity of disease: mean APACHE-II score before intervention was 8; organ failure was present in 23 % of patients; and infected necrosis in 57 % of patients. On average, four (range 1-23) endoscopic interventions were performed per patient. With endoscopic necrosectomy alone, definitive successful treatment was achieved in 81 % of patients. Mortality was 6 % (28/460 patients) and complications occurred in 36 % of patients. Bleeding was the most common complication.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic transluminal necrosectomy is an effective treatment for the majority of patients with necrotising pancreatitis with acceptable mortality and complication rates. It should be noted that methodological quality of the available studies is limited and that the combined patient population of endoscopically treated patients is only moderately ill.