Early human experience with per-oral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (POP)

Pyloric drainage interventions for gastroparesis: a comparison of laparoscopic pyloroplasty and gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) outcomes

BACKGROUND

The endoscopic approach to the surgical management of gastroparesis is gaining popularity. However, data comparing endoscopic myotomy to traditional laparoscopic pyloroplasty are limited. This study aimed to compare outcomes between gastric-per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) and pyloroplasty.

METHODS

Gastroparesis patients who underwent pyloroplasty or G-POEM from 2013 through 2023 at our institution were reviewed. Pre/postoperative gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI), resolution of the predominant gastroparesis symptom, and gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) were assessed.

RESULTS

There were 314 patients who underwent surgical myotomy. Median (IQR) age was 51.9 (40-62) and 84.1% were female. Of these 81 underwent G-POEM and 233 underwent pyloroplasty. Age and sex were similar between surgical approaches (p > 0.05). Gastroparesis etiology was 61.8% idiopathic, 21.3% diabetic, and 16.9% postsurgical. Postsurgical etiology was more likely to undergo G-POEM (25.9% vs. 13.7%, p = 0.046). At a mean (SD) of 14.2(17) months resolution of the predominant gastroparesis symptom was achieved by 70.0% after G-POEM and 76.4% after pyloroplasty (p = 0.297). The GCSI improved after G-POEM [3.1(2-4) to 2.4 (2-3), p = 0.0498] and pyloroplasty [3.1(3-4) to 2.4(2-3), p < 0.0001]. There was no difference in postoperative GCSI (p = 0.805) or percent GCSI improvement (p = 0.976) between groups. In the 96 patients with pre- and postoperative GES, 4 h retention decreased for pyloroplasty from 29.0% (18-43) to 4.2% (1.0-18) (p < 0.0001) and for G-POEM from 23.0 (13-49) to 13 (5.0-29), (p = 0.045). Pyloroplasty showed a trend towards better emptying (p = 0.0719) with more patients achieving ≥ 50% improvement (70.3% vs. 50%, p = 0.086).

CONCLUSIONS

Gastroparesis symptom improvement was similar after pyloroplasty and G-POEM; however, there was a trend towards better improvement in gastric emptying after pyloroplasty.

Pyloric Dysfunction: A Review of the Mechanisms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Pyloric dysfunction is defined as hypertonia or spasm of the pyloric sphincter. The pylorus plays a key role in gastric emptying, but its function remains incompletely understood. Most studies have focused on gastroparesis regardless of the underlying pathophysiology. Few studies have reported pyloric dysfunction in patients with gastroparesis, and the diagnostic and treatment modalities for pyloric dysfunction are not well established. Recently developed diagnostic modalities assessing pyloric function, such as high-resolution antroduodenal manometry and endoluminal functional lumen imaging, are currently being evaluated. A variety of therapeutic interventions targeting the pylorus, including pharmacologic agents, intrapyloric botulinum injection, endoscopic balloon dilation, stent insertion, surgical pyloroplasty, and gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy, have been proposed. Among these, gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy has emerged as a novel, minimally invasive therapy with demonstrated efficacy and safety for refractory gastroparesis. This article reviews the pathophysiology of pyloric dysfunction and the potential diagnostic and therapeutic modalities based on the latest literature.

Efficacy and Safety of Gastric Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (G-POEM): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is an innovative treatment that has become increasingly utilized for patients with refractory gastroparesis. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of G-POEM for the treatment of gastroparesis.

METHODS

Individualized search strategies were developed through February 2021 in accordance with the PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. This meta-analysis was performed by calculating pooled proportions and mean difference preprocedure and postprocedure with rates estimated using random effects models. Measured outcomes included technical success, clinical success, improvement in gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI), change in gastric emptying rate, alterations in impedance planimetry (functional lumen imaging probe [FLIP]) assessment, and adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 20 studies (n=797 patients; 67.41% female) were included. The mean age was 48.92±11.61 y, with an average duration of 4.24±1.11 y since gastroparesis diagnosis. Technical success was 98.47% [(95% CI: 97.14, 99.19); I2 =0.00] with a mean myotomy length of 3.78±1.16 cm. In terms of clinical success, mean preprocedure GCSI scores were 3.38±0.37 and improved significantly postprocedure [weighted mean difference -1.56 (95% CI: -1.89 to -1.24); I2 =82.53; P <0.001]. Gastric retention after 4 hours demonstrated ~50% improvement (preprocedure 43.08±9.24% versus postprocedure 22.97±10.19%; P <0.001). FLIP assessment with 40 mL and 50 mL balloons demonstrated a significant increase in diameter, distensibility index, and cross-sectional area postprocedure (all P <0.05). Procedure-associated adverse events occurred among 10.92% [(95% CI 5.09 to 19.32); I2 =82.85] of patients.

CONCLUSION

G-POEM appears safe and highly effective for the treatment of patients with refractory gastroparesis regardless of symptom predominance or etiology.

POEM from A to Z: current perspectives

The "third space endoscopy" or also called "submucosal endoscopy" is a reality we can transfer to our patients since 2010. Various modifications of the submucosal tunneling technique allow access to the submucosa or deeper layers of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition to peroral endoscopic myotomy for the treatment of achalasia, also called esophageal POEM, other variants have emerged that make it possible to treat different esophageal motility disorders, esophageal diverticula, subepithelial tumors of various locations, gastroparesis, reconnection of complete esophageal strictures or even thanks to exceptional endoscopists, pediatric disorders such as Hirschsprung's disease. Although some technical aspects are yet to be standardized, these procedures are becoming widespread worldwide and will likely become the standard treatment of these pathologies soon.

A long-term follow-up study of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) in a large cohort of patients with postsurgical gastroparesis

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative gastroparesis occurs after surgeries which affect the upper digestive tract. Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is a treatment for postoperative gastroparesis. The present study boasts the long-term efficacy and safety of G-POEM in a large cohort of patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Questionnaire (GERDQ) were utilized for the assessment of postsurgical gastroparesis symptoms. Gastroscope was used to observe the anastomotic site. Three-dimensional ultrasound was used to measure the morphological structure of the gastric antrum and pylorus tube. Gastric emptying time was calculated by analyzing the volume change of gastric antrum.

RESULTS

Significant clinical effectiveness of G-POEM was observed. The GCSI score, including each subscale score, showed significant decrease after G-POEM. Before G-POEM, there was a negative correlation between GCSI score and the inner diameter of pylorus, as well as a positive correlation with the length of pyloric tube. The similar results were found in the scores of nausea/vomiting and postprandial fullness/early satiety subscales. No correlation was observed between GCSI score and the emptying time, nor between the emptying time and the parameters of antrum morphology. After G-POEM, no correlation was found between GCSI (including subscales) score, the emptying time, and the parameters of antrum morphology. Patients who exhibited as clinical non-responders often accompanied with GERD symptoms. After G-POEM, the score of GERDQ decreased significantly. Either before or after G-POEM, no correlation was noticed between GERDQ scores, the emptying time and the parameters of antrum morphology.

CONCLUSION

The technique of G-POEM was demonstrated as a minimally invasive approach with the long-term efficacy and safety in therapying postoperative gastroparesis.

Initial experience and outcomes of per oral pyloromyotomy for the treatment of refractory gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis can be a debilitating disease process for which durable treatment options are lacking. While dietary changes and pharmacotherapy have some efficacy, symptoms frequently recur and some patients progress to needing supplemental enteral feeding access. Per oral pyloromyotomy (POP) has been shown to be a durable minimally invasive treatment option for refractory gastroparesis with a low side effect profile, and therefore has been performed at this institution for the past 6 years.

METHODS

This was a retrospective case series of all patients who underwent a POP at a single institution over a 6-year period (2018-2023). Patient demographics, preoperative symptomatology and subsequent workup, postoperative complications, and symptom recurrence were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 56 patients included in the study. There was a 1.8:1 female:male ratio. The average patient age was 56 years old (range 23-85). The average duration of symptoms was 1-3 years. Thirty-eight percent of patients had undergone previous endoscopic therapy for gastroparesis (pyloric botox injection or pyloric dilation) and 16% of patients underwent multiple endoscopic therapies. Twenty-nine percent of patients were on a medication for gastroparesis. Past surgery was the most common gastroparesis etiology for POP (50% of patients). Diabetes (23%) and idiopathic (19%) were the other most common gastroparesis etiologies for POP. Nausea was the most common symptom at first follow-up (30%) but these patients continued to improve with 14% of patients continuing to endorse nausea at 6 months. Twenty-seven percent of patients developed symptom recurrence. Forty percent of patients with symptom recurrence underwent a repeat endoscopic or surgical therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In this present study, POP leads to durable results in approximately 75% of patients with minimal complications. Furthermore, the majority of patients who do develop symptom recurrence do not require additional gastroparesis interventions.

Complications related to third space endoscopic procedures

Third space endoscopy (TSE) encompasses a breadth of procedures for the treatment of a variety of GI disorders. The widespread use of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) and its diversification to include extended indications and at locations other than the oesophagus has provided an insight into the potential complications encountered. The most common adverse events associated with POEM, the epitome of TSE procedures, include insufflation related injuries, bleeding, failure of mucosal barrier, infections, pain, blown out myotomy and gastroesophageal reflux disease. The purpose of this review is to highlight the pitfalls and to identify the risk factors that may lead to adverse events, and to recommend appropriate salvage interventions in the scope of the current evidence.

Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy versus botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of refractory gastroparesis: results of a double-blind randomized controlled study

INTRODUCTION

Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is a promising technique for treating refractory gastroparesis. We present the first double-blind randomized study comparing the clinical efficacy of G-POEM versus pyloric botulinum toxin injection (BTI).

METHODS

This randomized study, conducted in two expert centers, enrolled patients with refractory gastroparesis, medically managed for >6 months and confirmed by gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES), into two groups, G-POEM versus BTI, with follow-up of 1 year. The primary end point was the 3-month clinical efficacy, defined as a >1-point decrease in the mean Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) score. Secondary end points were: 1-year efficacy, GES evolution, adverse events, and quality of life.

RESULTS

40 patients (22 women; mean age 48.1 [SD 17.4]), with mean symptom duration of 5.8 (SD 5.7) years, were randomized. Etiologies included idiopathic (n=18), diabetes (n=11), postoperative (n=6), and mixed (n=4). G-POEM showed a higher 3-month clinical success than BTI (65% vs. 40%, respectively; P=0.10), along with non-significantly higher 1-year clinical success (60% vs. 40%, respectively) on intention-to-treat analysis. The GCSI decreased in both groups at 3 months and 1 year. Only three minor adverse events occurred in the G-POEM group. The GES improvement rate was 72% in the G-POEM group versus 50% in the BTI group (non-significant).

CONCLUSION

G-POEM seems to have a higher clinically relevant success rate than BTI, but this was not statistically demonstrated. This study confirms the interest in treatments targeting the pylorus, either mechanically or chemically, for managing refractory gastroparesis.

Role of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (GPOEM) in chronic gastroparesis management after pancreas transplantation

Gastroparesis is a common complaint among patients with diabetes. Symptoms tend to improve following successful pancreas transplantation (PTx), but persist despite euglycemia in a subset of patients. We aimed to assess the benefit of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) in persistent gastroparesis following PTx. This was a single center retrospective review of all patients who underwent G-POEM for persistent gastroparesis following PTx. Patient demographics, pre and post procedure perception of symptom severity according to the patient assessment of upper gastrointestinal symptoms severity index (PAGI-SYM), gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI) score, and 36-item short form survey (SF36) score along with gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) were analyzed. Seven PTx recipients underwent G-POEM for persistent gastroparesis symptoms. The majority were female. All reported nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and post prandial fullness prior to G-POEM. The post procedure survey scores improved in all patients although this was not significant. The improvement in gastric emptying on GES was statistically significant. G-POEM is a relatively new treatment option for gastroparesis. While it requires specialized proceduralist and training, we have documented improvement in the management of symptoms. With increasing experience, we anticipate more significant benefit in post PTx patients with persistent symptoms of gastroparesis undergoing G-POEM.

Predictors of favorable outcome after pyloroplasty for gastroparesis: should response to pyloric dilation or Botox injection be used as a marker of surgical outcome?

INTRODUCTION

Pyloroplasty and gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) are effective surgeries for gastroparesis. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of pyloroplasty and G-POEM in patients with gastroparesis and determine factors associated with favorable outcome. The secondary aim was to assess the utility of clinical response to preoperative pyloric dilation or botulinum toxin injection (Botox) on surgical outcome, a factor conventionally used as a favorable marker.

METHODS

There were 204 patients who underwent pyloroplasty (n = 177) or G-POEM (n = 27) for gastroparesis at our institution from 2014 to 2021. Demographic and clinical parameters were analyzed to assess their impact on surgical outcome. A subgroup of patients who had pyloric dilation or Botox injection were assessed separately. Favorable outcome was defined as patient reported complete resolution of the predominant gastroparesis symptom.

RESULTS

Favorable outcome was achieved in 78.4% of patients (pyloroplasty: 79.7% and G-POEM: 70.4%, p = 0.274). Among 61 patients where pre- and postoperative gastric emptying studies (GES) were available, mean 4-hour retention significantly improved from 33.5 to 15.0% (p < 0.001) and 77.0% of patients achieved normalization. Favorable outcome was not significantly impacted by etiology of gastroparesis (p = 0.120), GERD (p = 0.518), or primary gastroparesis symptom (p = 0.244). Age ≥ 40 was a significant predictor of favorable surgical outcome on multivariate analysis [OR: 2.476 (1.224-5.008), p = 0.012]. Among the patients who had preoperative dilation (n = 82) or Botox injection (n = 46), response to these interventions was not a predictor of favorable surgical outcome (p = 0.192 and 0.979, respectively). However, preoperative Botox injection, regardless of response to injection, was associated with favorable surgical outcome [OR: 3.205 (CI 1.105-9.299), p = 0.032].

CONCLUSION

Symptomatic improvement after pyloroplasty or G-POEM is independent of etiology of gastroparesis, GERD, and primary symptom. Response to dilation or Botox are not markers of response to surgery. However, patients who receive Botox are 3.2 times more likely to improve postoperatively.

Gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) in patients with refractory gastroparesis: a review

Gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM or POP) is an endoscopic therapeutic modality for treatment of refractory gastroparesis. Since the first case reported in 2013, there are more than 200 papers published on G-POEM. In this narrative review, we summarize the short-term and long-term outcomes and review other important studies. The technical success rate is 100% and the short-term (within 1 year) success rate is about 50-80%. The procedure time is between 50 and 70 min while the average length of hospital stay was 2-3 days. The adverse event rate was around 10%. Few patients need further intervention. Three studies showed that at the 4-year follow-up, the response to G-POEM was durable, but there was a yearly recurrence rate of 13% or more. Redo G-POEM is feasible and can be of benefit for some patients. Most of the studies showed that long duration of illness is associated with poor outcomes. However, reliable predictors for successful outcomes are still unknown. Current literature indicates G-POEM is superior to gastric electric stimulator and surgical pyloroplasty. Endoflip has been used at G-POEM to predict the outcome, but the result is very preliminary. A recent sham study confirms the short-term efficacy of G-POEM. G-POEM is safe and about 50% of patients can be discharged to home on the same day. G-POEM allows for direct biopsy of the gastric muscle, which is the location of the pacemaker cells, the interstitial cells of Cajal; therefore, G-POEM may provide a new path for further research on the pathogenesis of gastroparesis.

Indications and Outcomes of Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy from Mouth to Anus

Third space endoscopy or submucosal endoscopy using a mucosal flap valve allows secure access to the submucosal and deeper layers of the gastrointestinal tract without the risk of a full-thickness perforation. This allows the performance of submucosal tunneling and myotomy for spastic segments of the gastrointestinal tract. Per oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been described for the treatment of achalasia cardia and other spastic esophageal disorders and is widely implemented. Endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) has been performed for the treatment of refractory gastroparesis. Z-POEM for Zenker's diverticulum, D-POEM for epiphrenic diverticulum, and per-rectal endoscopic myotomy for treatment of Hirschsprung's disease are described..

A New Paradigm Shift in Gastroparesis Management

Gastroparesis, once regarded as a rare disease, is difficult to diagnose and challenging to treat; there were many breakthrough advances in the 2010s, shifting the paradigm of the understanding of this complex entity and its management. Similar to diabetes, its increasing prevalence reflects increased accessibility to diagnostic modalities and suggests that gastroparesis was underacknowledged in the past. Major developments in the three main aspects of the disease include the discovery of smooth muscle cells, interstitial cells of Cajal, PDGFRα+ cells syncytium, rather than interstitial cells of Cajal alone, as the main gastric pacemaker unit; the development of validated point-of-care diagnostic modalities such as a wireless motility capsule, the carbon 13-labeled breath test, and impedance planimetry; and the introduction of novel minimally invasive therapeutic options such as newer pharmacologic agents and gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy. All aspects of these advances will be discussed further in this review.

Evaluation of the safety profile of endoscopic pyloromyotomy by G-POEM: a French multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Gastric per oral endoscopic esophageal myotomy (G-POEM) is a promising procedure to treat refractory gastroparesis. The safety profile of G-POEM is an important topic because gastroparesis is a functional pathology, with a procedure whose effectiveness is between 50 and 65% depending on the studies.

OBJECTIVES

We present this retrospective multicenter study, with the aim of establishing a safety profile, focusing on serious adverse events (AEs).

DESIGN

This was a multicenter observational cohort study conducted in five French expert centers.

METHODS

All patients who underwent G-POEM for refractory gastroparesis between 2015 and 2021 were included for analysis. AEs were classified into per endoscopic, early postoperative, and late postoperative, up to 1 month. Their severity was assessed using Dindo-Clavien and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy classification. The primary objective was to evaluate the rate of G-POEM severe AEs. Secondary objectives were to document other postoperative AEs, and to identify predictive factors.

RESULTS

In all, 217 patients were included: 81 men and 136 women, mean age 52 ± 17 years. The average procedural time was 44 ± 14 min (12-78). The average hospital stay was 3.7 ± 2.3 days. The AEs rate classified as Clavien-Dindo ⩾3 was 0.4% (one delayed bleeding requiring blood transfusion and endoscopic management). There were no deaths or patients admitted to intensive care unit. The rates of mucosotomy and capnoperitoneum were 3.7 and 1.8%, respectively, without clinical consequences. Most patients (81.5%) did not experience any AE. Three cases of dumping syndrome occurred, quickly managed by dietary measures.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms the safety of G-POEM with less than 0.5% of serious AEs, medically managed. This outcome makes this a procedure to have a good benefit-risk ratio.

Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy outcomes after 4 years of follow-up in a large cohort of patients with refractory gastroparesis (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is used for refractory gastroparesis (RG) with good early-term but variable mid- and long-term outcomes. Limited data exist about candidates and long-term clinical and predictive factors. Our aim was to evaluate the 4-year follow-up efficacy and predictive factors in patients with RG.

METHODS

Confirmed RG patients were included and evaluated between April 2017 and December 2021. Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) score, retention percentage at 4 hours (RP4H), mean half-emptying time (MHET), and the 36-item short-form survey (SF-36) were performed at 1, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, and 48 months.

RESULTS

After G-POEM, 374 patients with RG were included: 141 patients (37.7%) had diabetic gastroparesis (DG), 115 (30.7%) had idiopathic gastroparesis (IG), 102 (27.3%) had postsurgical gastroparesis (PSG), and 16 (4.3%) had other etiologies. After the 48-month evaluation, 102 patients completed follow-up (DG, 58; IG, 22; PSG, 18; other, 4). Before G-POEM, GCSI score, RP4H, and MHET were 3.84 ± .53, 44% (interquartile range [IQR], 11-68), and 246 minutes (IQR, 150-368), respectively, and after the 48-month evaluation improved to 2.1 ± .70 (P < .001), 15.5% (IQR, 0-36; P = .021), and 135 minutes (IQR, 67-290; P = .045), respectively. At the 48-month evaluation, clinical success was 77.5%. DG showed the best outcomes (DG vs IG vs PSG vs other: 86.5% vs 72.5% [P = .001] vs 72.1% [P = .003] vs 68.8% [P < .001]). Long-term success predictors were DG (odds ratio [OR], 5.113; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.643-5.981; P = .035), early diagnosis (OR, 2.455; 95% CI, 1.129-3.522; P = .042), nausea/vomiting (OR, 3.541; 95% CI, 1.881-5.511; P = .012), GCSI score at 6 months (1.5-2) (OR, 3.612; 95% CI, 2.122-5.317; P = .022), and RP4H <10% at 6 months (OR, 2.188; 95% CI, 1.435-4.233; P = .039).

CONCLUSIONS

G-POEM is an effective 4-year treatment in patients with RG, especially in DG, establishing a potential first-line therapy in these patients. However, randomized controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm these results. (Clinical trial registration number: NTC03126513.).

Safety and feasibility of same day discharge after per oral endoscopic pyloromyotomy in refractory gastroparesis: a pilot study

Background:

Gastroparesis is a debilitating medical condition with limited treatment options. Gastric per-oral pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) has emerged as a promising treatment option with remarkable short-term clinical success shown in multiple studies. While the post-procedure protocol is not standardized across many centers, the majority of the centers observes these patients in the hospital after the procedure for monitoring. In this single-center prospective study, we evaluated the safety and feasibility of same day discharge after the G-POEM procedure.

Methods:

All the patients with refractory gastroparesis undergoing G-POEM from October 2019 to March 2020 were enrolled. A total of 25 patients were enrolled in the procedure. Based on the pre-defined criteria, patients were either discharged on the same day after the procedure or admitted to the hospital for further observation. The patient and procedure-related data were extracted from the chart review. Univariate analysis was performed (chi-squared test) on categorical variables after organizing categorical variables as numeric counts or percentages. The student t test was performed on continuous variables after reporting as mean and standard deviation. For analysis with a smaller sample size, Fisher exact and Mann–Whitney tests were used.

Results:

A total of 25 patients were enrolled. The technical success of G-POEM was 100% and clinical success was 80% (20/25) at 1-month follow-up. Of the 25 patients, 9 patients (36%) were discharged on the same day according to the procedure from the recovery unit. Of the remaining 16 patients who were admitted to the hospital post-procedure, 10 (40%) were admitted due to procedure-related causes while other admissions were either pre-planned or due to social reasons. The average Charlson comorbidity index was lower in the same day discharge group (P < 0.05). The number of patients requiring double myotomy was higher in the same day discharge group (P < 0.05). The overall complication rate of G-POEM in the study cohort was 12% (3/25) with all complications being mild without any severe adverse events.

Conclusion:

G-POEM is a safe and effective method of treatment for refractory GP with higher clinical success in short-term follow-up. The same day discharge after G-POEM is safe and feasible in >50% of patients with close periprocedural monitoring.

New Applications for Submucosal Tunneling in Third Space Endoscopy: A Comprehensive Review

Third space endoscopy (TSE), a type of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, was first introduced a decade ago, and since then, has revolutionized the field of therapeutic endoscopy. TSE involves tunneling into the submucosal space between the intestinal mucosa and the muscularis propria. By accessing this "third space," endoscopists can perform minimally invasive myotomies, resections, and dissections while maintaining the mucosa and preventing full-thickness perforation. TSE procedures can be used to treat motility disorders as well as neoplasms throughout the gastrointestinal tract, which were traditionally conditions that would require open or laparoscopic surgery. The main TSE procedures include peroral endoscopic myotomy, gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy, Zenker peroral endoscopic myotomy, submucosal tunneling for endoscopic resection, endoscopic submucosal tunnel dissection, peroral endoscopic tunneling for restoration of the esophagus, and per-rectal endoscopic myotomy. Some of those procedures have now been accepted as viable alternative to surgical techniques due to their limited invasiveness, safety and cost. This review will explore the different techniques recently added to our arsenal while describing their potential efficacy and limitations.

POEM, GPOEM, and ZPOEM

Our tripartite narrative review discusses Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM), gastric POEM (GPOEM) and POEM for Zenker's diverticula (ZPOEM). POEM is the prototypical procedure that launched the novel "3rd space endoscopy" field of advanced endoscopy. It revolutionized achalasia therapy by offering a much less invasive version of the prior gold standard, the laparoscopic Heller myotomy (HM). We review in detail indications, outcomes, technique variations and comparative data between POEM and HM particularly with regard to the hotly debated issue of GERD. We then proceed to discuss two less illustrious but nevertheless important offshoots of the iconic POEM procedure: GPOEM for gastroparesis and ZPOEM for the treatment of hypopharyngeal diverticula. For GPOEM, we discuss the rationale of pylorus-directed therapies, briefly touch on GPOEM technique variations and then focus on the importance of proper patient selection and emerging data in this area. On the third and final part of our review, we discuss ZPOEM and expound on technique variations including our "ultra-short tunnel technique". Our review emphasizes that, despite the superiority of endoscopy over surgery for the treatment of hypopharyngeal diverticula, there is no clear evidence yet of the superiority of the newfangled ZPOEM technique compared to the conventional endoscopic myotomy technique practiced for over two decades prior to the advent of ZPOEM.

Gastric Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy: A Specific Learning Curve

INTRODUCTION

Gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) is a novel option for patients with gastroparesis. It involves submucosal tunneling across the pylorus, followed by pyloromyotomy, and subsequent closure of the endoscopic tunnel. The aim of this study was to determine the learning curve for G-POEM.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing G-POEM by a single operator were included from a prospective registry over 2 years. Demographics, procedure info, postprocedure follow-up data, and adverse events were collected. Nonlinear regression and cumulative sum control chart analyses were conducted for the learning curve. Clinical outcomes were improvement in Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index score and gastric emptying scintigraphy.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients were included (16.7% M, mean age 46 y). The majority had idiopathic gastroparesis (n=16, 44%), with the remaining having diabetes (n=5, 17%), postsurgical (n=10, 28%), or other (n=4, 11%). Technical success was achieved in 35 of 36 (97%). There was a significant reduction in the total Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index score (2.09 units, P<0.00001) and a significant reduction in postoperative gastric emptying scintigraphy (82.44 mins, P<0.00001). Mean follow-up was 15 months (SD, 1.05). Median procedure time was 60.5 minutes (range, 35 to 136). Cumulative sum control chart shows 60-minute procedure was achieved at the 18th procedure. Procedure durations further reduced with consequent procedures with the last 3 being 45 minutes, thus demonstrating continued improvement with ongoing experience (nonlinear regression P<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopists experienced in G-POEM are expected to achieve a reduction in procedure time over successive cases, with efficiency reached at 60.5 minutes and a learning rate of 18 cases with continuing improvement.

Endoscopic Management for Post-Surgical Complications after Resection of Esophageal Cancer

Simple Summary

Flexible endoscopy has an important part in the diagnosis and treatment of postoperative complications after oncologically intended esophagectomy. Endoscopy offers the possibility of effective therapy with minimal invasiveness at the same time, and the use of endoscopic therapy procedures can avoid re-operations. In this review we present the advantages of endoscopic treatment opportunities during the last 20 years regarding patients’ treatment after esophageal cancer resection. According to prevalence and clinical relevance, four relevant postoperative complications were identified and their endoscopic treatment procedures discussed. All endoscopic therapy procedures for anastomotic bleeding, anastomotic insufficiencies, anastomotic stenosis and postoperative delayed gastric emptying are presented, including innovative developments.

Abstract

Background: Esophageal cancer (EC) is the sixth-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Esophagectomy is the most effective treatment for patients without invasion of adjacent organs or distant metastasis. Complications and relevant problems may occur in the early post-operative course or in a delayed fashion. Here, innovative endoscopic techniques for the treatment of postsurgical problems were developed during the past 20 years. Methods: Endoscopic treatment strategies for the following postoperative complications are presented: anastomotic bleeding, anastomotic insufficiency, delayed gastric passage and anastomotic stenosis. Based on a literature review covering the last two decades, therapeutic procedures are presented and analyzed. Results: Addressing the four complications mentioned, clipping, stenting, injection therapy, dilatation, and negative pressure therapy are successfully utilized as endoscopic treatment techniques today. Conclusion: Endoscopic treatment plays a major role in both early-postoperative and long-term aftercare. During the past 20 years, essential therapeutic measures have been established. A continuous development of these techniques in the field of endoscopy can be expected.

Gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy versus pyloromyotomy for gastroparesis: An international comparative study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gastroparesis is a potentially debilitating gastric motility disorder with limited treatment options. Highest efficacy treatments include gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (GPOEM) and surgical pyloromyotomy. This study compares the efficacy and safety of GPOEM versus laparoscopic pyloromyotomy for refractory gastroparesis.

METHODS

Patients who underwent GPOEM or laparoscopic pyloromyotomy for refractory gastroparesis from four centers across the USA and Latin America were included in a dedicated registry. Data collected included patient demographics, imaging, laboratory values, clinical success, gastroparesis cardinal symptom index, procedure time, pre-op and post-op gastric emptying times, adverse events, and hospital length of stay.

RESULTS

A total of 102 patients were included (mean age 47; 32.4% male): GPOEM n = 39, surgical pyloromyotomy n = 63.Technical success was 100% in both groups. Clinical success was 92.3% in the GPOEM group and 82.5% in the surgery group (P = 0.164). The GPOEM group had a significantly higher post-op GSCI score reduction by 1.3 units (P < 0.00001), post-op retention reduction at 2 h by 18% (P < 0.00001), post-op retention reduction at 4 h by 25% (P < 0.00001) and a lower procedure time by 20 min (P < 0.00001) as compared with surgery. GPOEM also had a lower hospital length of stay by 2.8 days (P < 0.00001). Adverse events were significantly fewer in the GPOEM group (13%) compared with surgery group (33.3%; P = 0.021). Mean blood loss in the GPOEM group was only 3.6 mL compared with 866 mL in the surgery group.

CONCLUSIONS

The GPOEM may be a less invasive, safer, and more efficacious procedural treatment for refractory gastroparesis as compared with surgical pyloromyotomy.

EndoFLIP and Pyloric Dilation for Gastroparesis Symptoms Refractory to Pyloromyotomy/Pyloroplasty

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis patients may undergo pyloromyotomy/pyloroplasty for chronic refractory symptoms. However, some patients have persistent symptoms. It is unknown if balloon dilation may improve their symptoms.

AIMS

We aimed to (1) assess if pyloric through-the-scope (TTS) balloon dilation results in symptom improvement in gastroparesis patients with suboptimal response to pyloromyotomy/pyloroplasty and (2) determine endoscopic functional luminal imaging probe (EndoFLIP) characteristics of these patients before dilation.

METHODS

Patients with severe gastroparesis refractory to pyloromyotomy/pyloroplasty seen from 2/2019 to 3/2020 underwent pyloric TTS dilation after assessing the pyloric characteristics using EndoFLIP. Patients completed Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) pre-procedurally, and GCSI and Clinical Patient Grading Assessment Scale (CPGAS) on follow-ups.

RESULTS

Thirteen (ten females) patients (mean age 45.2 ± 5.1 years) with severe gastroparesis symptoms (mean GCSI total score 3.4 ± 0.3) after pyloromyotomy/pyloroplasty underwent pyloric TTS dilation. Overall, there was improvement in symptoms at 1-month follow-up (mean GCSI total score 3.0 ± 0.4, mean CPGAS score 1.6 ± 0.5, p < 0.05 for both), with five (38%) patients reporting symptoms somewhat/moderately better. The patients with symptom improvement had lower pre-dilation pyloric EndoFLIP distensibility at 30 ml, 40 ml, and 50 ml than patients with little/no improvement (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In gastroparesis patients with refractory symptoms after pyloromyotomy/pyloroplasty, pyloric TTS dilation improved symptoms in about a third of the patients. Patients with symptom improvement had lower pre-dilation pyloric distensibility on EndoFLIP suggesting incomplete myotomy, pyloric muscle regeneration, or pyloric stricture. Pyloric EndoFLIP followed by TTS dilation seems to be a promising treatment for some patients with gastroparesis symptoms refractory to pyloromyotomy/pyloroplasty.

Feasibility, safety, and long-term efficacy of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) for postsurgical gastroparesis: a single-center and retrospective study of a prospective database

BACKGROUND

Postsurgical gastroparesis is recognized as a gastrointestinal dysfunction syndrome following foregut surgery. Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is suggested as a minimally invasive therapy for gastroparesis. But the long-term efficacy and safety of G-POEM in treating postsurgical gastroparesis are rarely explored.

METHODS

The primary outcomes included the symptomatic improvement based on gastroparesis cardinal symptoms index (GCSI) and the improvement of gastric emptying. The secondary outcomes included the improvement of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms and complications of G-POEM.

RESULTS

The severity of postsurgical gastroparesis was not associated with the onset time and the course of the disease. G-POEM significantly reduced GCSI throughout the follow-up period (p < 0.0001). For different anastomotic site, a significant improvement of GCSI was found at 6 month post-G-POEM (F4,165 = 74.18, p < 0.0001). Subscale analysis of GCSI showed that nausea/vomiting, post-prandial fullness/early satiety, and bloating were improved significantly at 6-month post-G-POEM (p < 0.0001, respectively). Half-emptying and whole-emptying time were significantly shortened in patients with different anastomotic site post-G-POEM (half-emptying time: F3,174 = 65.44, p < 0.0001; whole-emptying time: F3,174 = 54.85, p < 0.0001). The emptying of ioversol was obviously accelerated after G-POEM. GCSI wasn't related to pyloric length, pyloric diameter, and thickness of pyloric wall. GERDQ was also used to evaluate the clinical efficacy of G-POEM. For each time points, GERDQ didn't differ significantly in patients with different anastomotic site (F4,104 = 0.8075, p = 0.5231). For patients with different anastomotic site, GERDQ was improved significantly at different time points (F4,104 = 59.11, p < 0.0001). The higher the esophageal anastomotic site was, the faster G-POEM improved the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. No one required re-hospitalization for any complication.

CONCLUSION

G-POEM is a minimally invasive therapy with long-term effectiveness and safety in treating postsurgical gastroparesis.

One-year results of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy for refractory gastroparesis: a French multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Data on the long-term outcomes of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) for refractory gastroparesis are lacking. We report the results of a large multicenter long-term follow-up study of G-POEM for refractory gastroparesis.

METHODS

This was a retrospective multicenter study of all G-POEM operations performed in seven expert French centers for refractory gastroparesis with at least 1 year of follow-up. The primary endpoint was the 1-year clinical success rate, defined as at least a 1-point improvement in the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI).

RESULTS

76 patients were included (60.5 % women; age 56 years). The median symptom duration was 48 months. The median gastric retention at 4 hours (H4) before G-POEM was 45 % (interquartile range [IQR] 29 % - 67 %). The median GCSI before G-POEM was 3.6 (IQR 2.8 - 4.0). Clinical success was achieved in 65.8 % of the patients at 1 year, with a median rate of reduction in the GCSI score of 41 %. In logistic regression analysis, only a high preoperative GCSI satiety subscale score was predictive of clinical success (odds ratio [OR] 3.41, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.01 - 11.54; P = 0.048), while a high rate of gastric retention at H4 was significantly associated with clinical failure (OR 0.97, 95 %CI 0.95 - 1.00; P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

The results confirm the efficacy of G-POEM for the treatment of refractory gastroparesis, as evidenced by a 65.8 % clinical success rate at 1 year. Although G-POEM is promising, prospective sham-controlled trials are urgently needed to confirm its efficacy and identify the patient populations who will benefit most from this procedure.

Gastric per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy for Refractory Gastroparesis: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The emerging gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is becoming an alternative treatment method for gastroparesis. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of G-POEM for gastroparesis.

METHODS

Relevant publications were identified through searching PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science before April 1, 2019. Studies presenting the clinical data of G-POEM for the treatment of gastroparesis were included. Data about effectiveness and safety were extracted, pooled, and analyzed. Forest plots were graphed based on random effects models.

RESULTS

A total of 272 patients representing 8 studies were eligible for analysis. The pooled rates of GCSI at preprocedure, 1-3 months, 6 months, and 12 months, were 3.25 (95% CI, 2.75-3.75), 1.80 (95% CI, 1.10-2.49), 1.56 (95% CI, 0.45-2.68), and 1.10 (95% CI, 0.75-1.45), respectively. The pooled results of 4-h GES pre- and post-G-POEM were 41.89% (95% CI, 32.75-51.03%) and 16.48% (95% CI, 9.83-23.14%), respectively. Furthermore, the pooled clinical response rate was 84% (95% CI, 77-89%). The GES improvement rate and GES normal rate were also analyzed, and the results were 84% (95% CI, 77-90%) and 53% (95% CI, 39-66%), respectively. Finally, the pooled adverse events rate was 12% (95% CI, 6-19%).

CONCLUSIONS

G-POEM was shown to be feasible and safe for the treatment of gastroparesis with various etiologies, which could be a potential first-line therapy for certain patients. Future studies are needed to investigate the appropriate patients for G-POEM to explore the "most beneficial" subgroup of patients.

Significant changes in impedance planimetry (EndoFLIP™) measurements after peroral pyloromyotomy for delayed gastric emptying

BACKGROUND

The endoluminal functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) can be used to obtain real-time measurements of the diameter (D_min), cross-sectional area (CSA), and distensibility of the pylorus before and after peroral pyloromyotomy (POP), an emerging endoscopic treatment for delayed gastric emptying. Our study aims to report our single-center experience in performing POP with FLIP measurements before and after pyloromyotomy.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained gastroesophageal database was performed. Demographic and perioperative data, including intraoperative FLIP measurements of the pylorus before and after POP, were analyzed. Measurements were compared using paired t tests.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients underwent POP between February 2017 and July 2020. Twenty-three (67.7%) patients were male and the average age was 59 years. The etiology of delayed gastric emptying was post-vagotomy in 22 patients, idiopathic gastroparesis in 7 patients, and diabetic gastroparesis in 5 patients. There were no significant differences in pre-myotomy or post-myotomy FLIP measurements when comparing the post-vagotomy versus the gastroparesis groups. There were significant increases in D_min, CSA, and distensibility index when comparing pre-myotomy and post-myotomy readings for all patients (all p < 0.001). At follow-up, 64.7% of patients reported resolution of all symptoms.

CONCLUSION

POP is an effective intervention in patients with delayed gastric emptying. Significant changes in FLIP measurements before and after POP suggest that FLIP may be a useful adjunct in guiding the management of delayed gastric emptying.

Gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy for decompensated gastroparesis: comprehensive motility analysis in relation to treatment outcomes

Background and study aims  There are no reliable data to predict which patients with gastroparesis (GP) would benefit the most from gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM). The aim of the present study was to assess whether antro-duodenal motility patterns and pyloric distensibility can predict the outcome of G-POEM in patients with decompensated GP. Patients and methods  In an open-label study, patients with GP and refractory symptoms were eligible for treatment with G-POEM if treatment attempts according to a standardized stepwise protocol had failed. Baseline assessment included Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI), C13-octanoic gastric emptying breath test and high-resolution antro-duodenal manometry. Pyloric distensibility using EndoFlip measurements was assessed at baseline and 3 months after the procedure. Explorative analyses were performed on potential predictors of response using logistic regression analyses. Results  Twenty-four patients with decompensated GP underwent G-POEM. At baseline, 78.3 % and 61.9 % of patients showed antral hypomotility and neuropathic motor patterns, respectively. The technical success rate was 100 % (24/24). Mean GCSI improved significantly at 3, 6, and 12 months after G-POEM ( P  = 0.01). Median distensibility index (DI) improved significantly as compared with baseline (7.5 [6.9;11.7] vs. 5.3[3.1;8.1], P  = 0.004). A significant correlation was found between clinical response at 6 months and pyloric DI improvement ( P  = 0.003). No potential predictors of clinical response after G-POEM could be identified in an explorative analysis. Conclusions  G-POEM improved pyloric distensibility patterns in patients with decompensated GP. Clinical response at 6 months after G-POEM was associated with pyloric distensibility improvement. However, no potential predictors of response could be identified from either antro-duodenal motility patterns or pyloric distensibility.

A History of Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Surgeons have been involved, since the beginning, in the development and evolution of endoscopy. They have been instrumental in developing new methods and have been actively involved in most of the therapeutic applications. The continued evolution of endoscopic technique is inevitable and will involve the integration of new technology with innovative thinking.

Per Oral Pyloromyotomy for Gastroparesis: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature and Future Recommendations

Background: Gastric per oral endoscopic myotomy (GPOEM) was developed as a therapeutic option for gastroparesis after the pylorus was identified as a key target for gastroparesis management. This study includes a systematic literature review of studies in which GPOEM was utilized as therapy for gastroparesis. Methods: A literature search was conducted in three databases (MEDLINE, Scopus and Embase) of articles that included the keywords “GPOEM”, “Gastric per oral endoscopy myotomy” or “per oral pyloromyotomy” and “Gastroparesis” in the abstract or title. The search covered articles published until 29 February 2020. Results: A total of 139 articles were identified. Only 15 articles met the final inclusion criteria and were retrieved for qualitative data synthesis. Conclusion: GPOEM for gastroparesis is shown to have a high success rate among the studies but data interpretations are limited because of small sample sizes and short follow-up. Subjective and objective data prior to and post-GPOEM will be mandatory to establish credibility. The procedure is technically feasible and safe based on the limited studies available.

Techniques and devices for the endoscopic treatment of gastroparesis (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Gastroparesis is a symptomatic chronic disorder of the stomach characterized by delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction. Several endoscopic treatment modalities have been described that aim to improve gastric emptying and/or symptoms associated with gastroparesis refractory to dietary and pharmacologic management.

METHODS

In this report we review devices and techniques for endoscopic treatment of gastroparesis, the evidence regarding their efficacy and safety, and the financial considerations for their use.

RESULTS

Endoscopic modalities for treatment of gastroparesis can be broadly categorized into pyloric, nonpyloric, and nutritional therapies. Pyloric therapies such as botulinum toxin injection, stent placement, pyloroplasty, and pyloromyotomy specifically focus on pylorospasm as a therapeutic target. These interventions aim to reduce the pressure gradient across the pyloric sphincter, with a resultant improvement in gastric emptying. Nonpyloric therapies, such as venting gastrostomy and gastric electrical stimulation, are intended to improve symptoms. Nutritional therapies, such as feeding tube placement, aim to provide nutritional support.

CONCLUSIONS

Several endoscopic interventions have shown utility in improving the quality of life and symptoms of select patients with refractory gastroparesis. Methods to identify which patients are best suited for a specific treatment are not well established. Endoscopic pyloromyotomy is a relatively recent development that may prove to be the preferred pyloric-directed intervention, although additional and longer-term outcomes are needed.

Clinical efficacy of gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) in the treatment of refractory gastroparesis and predictors of outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis using surgical pyloroplasty as a comparator group

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is a novel minimally invasive technique in endosurgery. Data is limited as to its efficacy, safety, and predictive factors. We conducted this meta-analysis to evaluate the clinical outcomes of G-POEM and used the outcomes of surgical pyloroplasty as a comparator group in the treatment of refractory gastroparesis.

METHODS

We searched multiple databases from inception through March 2019 to identify studies that reported on G-POEM and pyloroplasty in gastroparesis. Our primary outcome was to analyze and compare the pooled rates of clinical success, in terms of Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) score and 4-h gastric emptying study (GES) results, with G-POEM and pyloroplasty.

RESULTS

Three hundred and thirty-two and 375 patients underwent G-POEM (11 studies) and surgical pyloroplasty (seven studies), respectively. The pooled rate of clinical success, based on the GCSI score, with G-POEM was 75.8% (95% CI 68.1-82.1, I2 = 50) and with surgical pyloroplasty was 77.3% (95% CI 66.4-85.4, I2 = 0), with no significance, p = 0.81. The pooled rate of clinical success, based on the 4-hour GES results, with G-POEM was 85.1% (95% CI 68.9-93.7, I2 = 74) and with surgical pyloroplasty was 84% (95% CI 64.4-93.8, I2 = 81), with no significance, p = 0.91. The overall adverse events were comparable. Based on meta-regression analysis, idiopathic gastroparesis, prior treatment with botulinum toxin and gastric stimulator seemed to predict clinical success with G-POEM.

CONCLUSION

G-POEM demonstrates clinical success in treating refractory gastroparesis. Idiopathic gastroparesis, prior treatment with botulinum injections and gastric stimulator appear to have positive predictive effects on the 4-h GES results after G-POEM. Outcomes seem comparable to surgical pyloroplasty.

G-POEM may be an optional treatment for refractory gastroparesis in systemic sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis involving skin and multiple internal organs. Gastrointestinal manifestations occur with a prevalence of 75-90%, and severely impact the quality of life. Among them, gastric involvement may concern 50-80% of patients with gastroparesis. GPOEM has been recently proposed as effective treatment in refractory gastroparesis, reaching 80% of short-term efficacy with very low complication rate. This procedure has never been assessed in SSc patients; thus, we describe two cases of patient who benefited from GPOEM.Patients: There were 40 and 35 years old women suffering from SSc for 10 years, whom developed gastroparesis symptoms over the last year, with GCSI score of 3.4. The diagnosis was confirmed by gastric emptying scintigraphy showing increased half emptying time and residual percentages. After failure of medical therapy associating prokinetic agents and dietary measures, they were referred after multidisciplinary discussion for GPOEM procedure. The follow-up included GCSI score calculation, adverse events, and GES at 2 months.

RESULTS

The procedures were uneventful, and the patients were discharged after 4 days and gradual refeeding. The post-operative GCSI 1 and 2.1, respectively, with both patients feeling significant clinical improvement, after a follow-up of 6 months. GES were also normalized in one patient. Despite improvement, one patient did not gain weight and had an additional jejunostomy.

CONCLUSIONS

GPOEM may be an interesting therapeutic option in patient with SSc and severe gastroparesis after failure of classical treatment. This procedure could be proposed to patients after multidisciplinary discussion.

Peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy for gastroparesis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and aim  Gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) is a new therapeutic option for refractory gastroparesis (GP). A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to assess the effectiveness of G-POEM in refractory GP. For the quality of evidence, we used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Methods  We performed a literature search using MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane library, LILACS and the Science citation index for studies related to G-POEM from the inception of its technique through January 2019. We selected studies that analyzed the gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI) and 4-hour solid-phase gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) before and after the procedure to verify the efficacy of G-POEM, the main outcome measured. An analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3. Results  Ten studies comprising 281 patients were included in this systematic review. The pooled mean difference in GCSI following the procedure was 1.76 (95 % CI: [1.43, 2.08], I ²  = 72 %). We also performed GCSI subgroup analysis by follow-up duration that showed a pooled mean difference of 1.84 (95 % CI: [1.57, 2.12], I ²  = 71 %). The pooled mean difference in GES after the procedure was 26.28 (95 % CI: [19.74, 32.83], I ²  = 87 %), corresponding to a significant drop in percentage values of the gastric retention 4-hour scintigraphy. Conclusion  This meta-analysis demonstrates that G-POEM is effective and shows promising outcomes in the clinical response and gastric emptying scintigraphy for gastroparesis. Therefore, it should be considered in the management of refractory gastroparesis.

Role of endoscopic functional luminal imaging probe in predicting the outcome of gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoluminal functional luminal imaging probe (EndoFLIP) is an imaging tool that measures the physiologic characteristics of GI sphincters. In this study, we used EndoFLIP to evaluate the association between the pyloric physiologic measurements and the clinical outcomes of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) in patients with refractory gastroparesis.

METHODS

Thirty-seven patients from 5 centers who underwent G-POEM for management of refractory gastroparesis and had EndoFLIP measurements were evaluated. Cross-sectional area (CSA), balloon pressure, and the distensibility index (DI) of the pylorus were evaluated by EndoFLIP at 40 mL and 50 mL balloon fills before and after G-POEM. One-year clinical success and change in gastric emptying study 3 months after the G-POEM procedure were compared with the EndoFLIP measurements.

RESULTS

Clinical success was achieved in 26 (70%) patients. Post-G-POEM CSA and DI were significantly higher in the clinical success group with both 40-mL volume distension (CSA: 89.9 ± 64.8 vs 172.5 ± 71.9 mm², P =.003; DI: 5.8 ± 4.4 vs 8.8 ± 6.1 mm²/mm Hg, P =.043) and 50-mL volume distention (CSA: 140.1 ± 89.9 vs 237.5 ± 80.3 mm², P =.003; DI: 5.6 ± 3.3 vs 9.9 ± 6.6 mm²/mm Hg, P =.049). CSA using 40-mL volume distention with an area under the curve of 0.83 yielded a specificity of 91% and a sensitivity of 71% at a cutoff point of 154 mm².

CONCLUSIONS

Post-G-POEM CSA of the pylorus is associated with clinical success and improvement in a gastric emptying scan after G-POEM. EndoFLIP measurements of the pylorus have the potential to be used as a tool to predict the clinical outcome of G-POEM.

Peroral Pyloromytomy is Effective and Safe for Postsurgical Gastroparesis

Gastric Per-oral Endoscopic pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) or per-oral pyloromyotomy (POP) is a novel procedure recently described for treatment of medically refractory gastroparesis; however, its efficacy and safety is not clear in patients with postsurgical gastroparesis (PsGP). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the efficacy and safety of G-POEM in PsGP. A total of 6 studies were included in the analysis. The pooled rate of success by gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI) and 4-h gastric emptying study (GES) were 89.6% (95% C.I. 72.7-96.5) and 81.5% (95% CI 47.8-95.5) respectively. There was a statistically significant improvement in GCSI score after 3 months of G-POEM as compared with pre G-POEM GCSI scores (2.7 (95% C.I. 0-5.5) vs 8.2 (95% C.I. 5.4-11) (p = 0.007). The mean pre G-POEM 4 h GES was 93.8% (95% C.I. 42.3-145.3) with improvement in post G-POEM GES to 44.5% (95% C.I. 0-95)(p = 0.2). The pooled rate of total adverse events was 9% (95% C.I. 2.7-25.9). Our study showed a good clinical success of G-POEM in PsGP patients along with significant improvement in 3-month GCSI scores. There was an improvement of GES after G-POEM, but it did not reach statistical significance. In conclusion, G-POEM is an effective and safe treatment option for PsGP.

Feasibility of using an led-probe in third-space endoscopy: a clinical study

BACKGROUND

Third-space endoscopy is a novel, safe, and effective method for treating different gastrointestinal conditions. However, several failed endoscopic procedures are attributed to incomplete myotomy. Lighting devices are used to prevent organic injuries. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of using a hand-made LED-probe (LP) in third-space procedures.

METHODS

This prospective study was conducted in a tertiary-care center in Mexico between December 2016 and January 2019. We included peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) and gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy(G-POEM) procedures. Pseudoachalasia, peptic ulcer, normal gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) and prepyloric tumors were excluded. LP was used to guide or confirm procedures. Clinical and procedural characteristics were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

Seventy third-space procedures were included (42POEM,28G-POEM), with an average patient age of 46.7 ± 14.3 and 43.7 ± 10.1 years, respectively. For the POEM and G-POEM groups, respectively, 18/42(42.9%) and 13/28(46.7%) patients were males; median procedure times were 50 (interquartile range [IQR]: 38-71) and 60(IQR: 48-77) min, median LP placement times were 5(IQR: 4-6) and 6(IQR: 5-7) min, mild adverse events occurred in 4(9.4%) and 4(14.2%) of cases, and clinical success at 6 months occurred in 100 and 85.7% of cases. Integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) improved from 27.3 ± 10.8 to 9.5 ± 4.1 mmHg (p < 0.001); retention percentage at 4 h also improved. LP was successfully placed and adequate myotomy confirmed including 14.2 and 17.8% of POEM and G-POEM difficult patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Using an LP is promising and allows guiding during third-space procedures either for submucosal tunnel creation or myotomy confirmation, with excellent safety and efficacy in clinical practice.

Gastric peroral endoscopic pyloromyotomy for refractory gastroparesis: a systematic review of early outcomes with pooled analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Gastroparesis (GP) is a chronic debilitating condition. Prior pyloric-targeted procedures are either invasive or have questionable efficacy. Gastric peroral pyloromyotomy (G-POEM) has been proposed as a minimally invasive approach. We performed a pooled analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of G-POEM for GP.

METHODS

Electronic databases (Medline, Scopus, EMBASE) were searched up to January 2019. Studies including patients who underwent G-POEM for GP were eligible. Procedural, clinical, and safety outcomes were assessed by pooling data with a random- or fixed-effect model according to the degree of heterogeneity to obtain a proportion with a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Ten studies were eligible for inclusion (292 patients), and 2 of the 10 studies were prospective. Seven studies were performed in the United States, 2 in France, and 1 in China. Endoscopic pyloromyotomy was feasible in all patients. Significant symptomatic improvement was achieved after 83.9% of procedures (mean follow-up, 7.8 ± 5.5 months). When comparing the mean values of pre- and postprocedural scintigraphic evolution, there was a significant decrease of the residual percentage at 2 and 4 hours. The overall adverse events rate was 6.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

G-POEM appears to be a promising approach for GP in terms of safety and efficacy outcomes in the short term.

Gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is a promising treatment for refractory gastroparesis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

to evaluate the efficacy and safety of gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) for the treatment of refractory gastroparesis.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched and used for study inclusion. Clinical studies since January 2013 to October 2019 were identified as suitable for inclusion. Conference papers, review articles, case reports, animal studies, letters, studies with repetitive data, studies that did not mention the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) score/gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) hours or were not indicated in the standard form were excluded. GCSI score, GCSI reduction, gastric emptying scintigraphy at four hours (GES-4h) and GES time (GET) reduction were considered as major indexes and the meta-analysis was achieved using Review Manager 5.3. Research bias was measured according to Cochrane handbook.

RESULTS

nine studies were included with a total of 235 patients that underwent G-POEM, and the technical success rate was 100%. After G-POEM, patients reported changes in GCSI score (6/9 studies, mean difference 1.41 [CI: 0.93, 1.88], p < 0.0001), GCSI reduction (8/9 studies, odds ratio 3.00 [CI: 2.24, 4.03], p < 0.0001), GES-4h (8/9 studies, mean difference 23.78 [CI: 19.88, 27.68], p < 0.00001) and GET reduction (6/9 studies, odds ratio 3.50 [CI: 2.12, 5.78], p < 0.00001). The intra-procedure complication rate was 5.1% (12/235), including capnoperitoneum (seven cases) and accidental mucotomy (five cases). The post-procedure complication rate was 6.8% (16/235), including abdominal pain (three cases), bleeding (three cases), ulcer (one case), difficulty swallowing (one case) and others (eight cases). Both per- and post-procedure complications were easily managed by conservative or endoscopic treatments.

CONCLUSION

the results show that gastroparesis patients can benefit from G-POEM, the success rate was impressive and the complication rate was relatively low. However, caution is necessary when interpreting the results, primarily due to the limitations of uncontrolled studies. Randomized control studies are still needed for further evaluations.

Gastric Per Oral Pyloromyotomy for Post-Vagotomy-Induced Gastroparesis Following Esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

Following the success of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for achalasia, application of this minimally invasive skillset has broadened to other disease processes. Since 2013, gastric per-oral pyloromyotomy (GPOP) has become an increasingly accepted therapy for refractory gastroparesis. Although it does not treat the underlying etiology of the disease, pyloromyotomy has demonstrated measurable improvements in gastric emptying scintigraphy, nausea, and quality of life. Gastroparesis is a common complication of esophagectomy due to the inherent vagotomy that occurs during creation of the gastric conduit. Fifteen to 30% of post-esophagectomy patients develop gastroparesis with a large portion of them reporting symptoms refractory to medical therapy, botox injection, and endoscopic dilation. Therefore, GPOP may have the potential to offer symptomatic relief to a significant population of debilitated post-esophagectomy patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The procedure was recorded using standard operating room equipment. Materials utilized included high-definition single-channel gastroscope, therapeutic overtube, clear endoscopic cap, triangle tip (TT) knife, ERBE energy source, endoscopic clips, sclerotherapy needle, methylene blue with epinephrine, and CO₂ insufflator.

RESULTS

We present a video of GPOP for a 71-year-old male with post-vagotomy-induced gastroparesis after esophagectomy. His pre-operative course was significant for persistent nausea and vomiting, diet intolerance, 20 lb weight loss, and frequent hospitalizations for aspiration pneumonia. Post-operatively, the patient recovered well and was discharged home on post-operative day 1 on a liquid diet. At 3-week follow-up, his nausea, vomiting, and PO intolerance had improved. At 6-month follow-up, he had no recent admissions for aspiration pneumonia and his pylorus remained widely patent on EGD.

CONCLUSIONS

GPOP status post-esophagectomy presented multiple challenges: difficulty maintaining field of view and insufflation, establishing tension and counter tension for the mucosotomy, and a limited working space. With care and patience, endoscopists trained to perform POEM may apply their skillset to help a large population of patients suffering with post-esophagectomy gastroparesis.

Third Space Endoscopy: Lessons Learnt From a Decade of Submucosal Endoscopy

The field of third space endoscopy (TSE), also called submucosal endoscopy using a mucosal flap valve, allows secure access to the submucosal and deeper layers of the gastrointestinal tract without the risk of a full-thickness perforation. Since the first description of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for the treatment of achalasia cardia 10 years ago, this field has expanded rapidly. Several new procedures, submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection, gastric-POEM, Zenker POEM, per-rectal endoscopic myotomy, diverticular POEM, and recanalization for complete esophageal obstruction (per-oral endoscopic tunneling for restoration of the esophagus), have been performed. All TSE procedures employ a similar technique-after a mucosal incision, a submucosal tunnel is created, a myotomy is performed, or a subepithelial tumor is resected distal to the site of mucosal incision, after which the mucosal incision is closed. Potential indications for TSE include resection of subepithelial tumors in the esophagus, gastroesophageal junction, or stomach; refractory gastroparesis; Zenker diverticulum; Hirschsprung disease or other forms of megacolon; and recanalization for complete esophageal obstruction. Data are currently available for POEM, submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection, and gastric-POEM, although mainly in the form of retrospective studies, and randomized trials and long-term follow-up data are limited. Submucosal endoscopy has an excellent safety profile with very few intraoperative adverse events, the majority being related to insufflation, although bleeding, perforation, and sepsis have been reported. TSE procedures require special training and have demonstrated a learning curve.

Sleeve gastrectomy for treatment of delayed gastric emptying-indications, technique, and results

INTRODUCTION

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) can be caused by gastric motility disorders such as gastroparesis with idiopathic background, diabetic neuropathy, or postsurgical nerve damage. Currently, a variety of endoscopic and surgical treatment options are available. We noted clinical improvement of gastric emptying with reduction of the gastric fundus following both fundoplication and fundectomy. As a consequence, we explored the effect of sleeve gastrectomy on gastric emptying. The focus of this paper is to investigate the role of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in the treatment of gastroparesis.

METHODS

Patients with symptoms suggestive of gastroparesis received diagnostic work-up (gastric emptying scintigraphy and/or Radiographic Barium-Sandwich Emptying studies). Patients with fundic emptying problems and moderate gastric dilation were selected for a LSG. All perioperative parameters were documented regarding patients characteristics, complications, and outcomes expressed as symptoms and quality of life (GIQLI gastrointestinal quality of life index). Assessment of DGE: Barium Emptying Radigraphy Index (BERI) 0-5.

RESULTS

From 122 patients with gastroparesis, 19 patients were selected for LSG (mean age 54 years (23-68); 10 males/9 females. Morbidity 2/19; no mortality; follow-up mean 24 months (12-60); preop/postop: BERI: 2, 31/1, 27 (p < 0.01); we noted significant improvement of the quality of life (preoperative GIQLI 78 (44-89)) to postoperative values of 114 (range 87-120) (p < 0.0001). Preoperative median BMI of these 19 patients was 24 [1-10], which was not significantly changed in the 15 patients at > 1 year follow-up with 23 [1-8]. Postoperative recurrence of DGE occurred in 3 patients who were reoperated after >1 year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

LSG is a potential surgical treatment option for selected patients with gastroparesis and fundic emptying problems.

Endoscopic techniques for myotomy of the lower esophageal sphincter and pylorus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) and gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) are minimally invasive endoscopic procedures for the treatment of esophageal motility disorders and refractory gastroparesis, respectively. In this review, we highlight the most recent publications on the technical aspects of POEM and G-POEM.

RECENT FINDINGS

POEM has evolved into a standard therapeutic option in patients with all achalasia subtypes with excellent durability and safety profile. G-POEM is a novel endoscopic procedure with promising results in terms of efficacy, safety, and symptom improvement in patients with refractory gastroparesis.

SUMMARY

POEM and G-POEM are novel endoscopic procedures. Practice patterns vary among endoscopists and procedure techniques continue to evolve. Comparative studies examining outcomes of different techniques are needed.