Equipment for pediatric endoscopy

A therapeutic ERCP in an only 5.9 kg infant with obstruction jaundice using JF-260V duodenoscope

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has found extensive use in pediatric patients; however, challenges persist in the application of therapeutic ERCP in infants.

CASE PRESENTATION

This case report details the presentation of a 5.9-kilogram infant with obstructive jaundice and suspected hemolytic anemia who underwent ERCP to alleviate biliary obstruction. The infant was admitted due to clay-colored stools, jaundice, and liver injury. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) revealed dilation of the common bile duct (CBD) accompanied by the presence of stones. ERCP was conducted using a JF-260V duodenoscope under general anesthesia. Successful stone extraction and biliary drainage were achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

In centers with considerable expertise in ERCP and pediatric anesthesia, the use of a conventional adult duodenoscope for therapeutic ERCP in infants can be considered safe and feasible, provided careful and stringent patient selection criteria are applied. In the future, clear guidelines and standardized protocols for the indications and procedures of pediatric ERCP should be established.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography on Pediatric Patients: Experience of a Portuguese Adult Gastroenterology Department

Introduction

Experience with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in the pediatric population is limited. Few medical centers have experts specifically trained in pediatric therapeutic endoscopy. As a result, patients are generally referred to adult endoscopists with high experience in the procedure. The aim of this study was to characterize the experience of an adult endoscopy unit with ERCP on pediatric patients, with a special focus on very young patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed indications, technical success rate, final clinical diagnosis, and complications of ERCPs in children <18 years at our tertiary referral hospital center between January 1994 and June 2022.

Results

Sixty-five ERCPs were performed on 57 children with a median age of 13 years (range 1-17 years). Eleven ERCPs were performed on 9 patients up to 5 years old. Indications for ERCP were as follows: biliary obstruction (n = 40), mainly due to choledocholithiasis, lithiasic acute pancreatitis (n = 19), recurrent pancreatitis (n = 3), stent extraction (n = 2), and post-operative biliary fistula (n = 1). The cannulation success rate was 95.1%. Therapeutic interventions were performed in 79% of ERCP. All patients were followed up as inpatients. Complications were recorded in two procedures (3.1%), and no procedure-related mortality occurred.

Conclusion

In our experience, ERCP in children can be safely performed with high success rates by advanced adult-trained expert endoscopists at a high-volume center.

Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to children with chronic refractory constipation: Consensus report by the SIGENP motility working group

Constipation is a common problem in children, accounting for about 3% of all primary care visits and up to 25% of referrals to paediatric gastroenterologists. Although polyethylene glycol often proves effective, most children require prolonged treatment and about 50% of them have at least one relapse within the first 5 years after initial recovery. When conventional treatment fails, children are considered to have refractory constipation. Children with refractory constipation deserve specialist management and guidance. Over the last decades, there has been a remarkable increase in our knowledge of normal and abnormal colonic and anorectal motility in children, and a number of different techniques to measure transit and motility have been developed. The present review analyses the possible diagnostic investigations for children with refractory constipation, focusing on their actual indications and their utility in clinical practice. Moreover, we have also analytically reviewed medical and surgical therapeutic options, which should be considered in selected patients in order to achieve the best clinical outcome.

Colonoscopic finding in children with lower gastrointestinal complaints

Background and Aim

Colonoscopy is an important tool for the diagnosis and treatment of lower gastrointestinal (LGI) diseases in both children and adults. This study describes an endoscopic profile of children at the Shinnwari Gastroenterology Diagnostic Clinic in Jalalabad, Afghanistan.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in children ≤16 years, taken from recorded colonoscopy reports from 1 January 2021 to 30 December 2022.

Results

Of the 672 colonoscopy procedures, 250 were diagnostic in children (7.41 years median age; 2.5:1 male/female ratio) without serious complications. Abnormal findings were recorded in 201 (81.2%) procedures; the most common presentation was hematochezia, which was higher in 5-8-year-olds. More frequent findings were colorectal polyps (50%), infection (16.4%), internal hemorrhoid (IH; 10%), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD; 1.2%). Incidences of colorectal polyps were higher in those aged <9 years (37.2% vs 12.8%; P < 0.001). Conversely, internal IH and IBD tended to be higher in older children (aged ≥9 years) (IH: 6.8% vs 3.2%; P < 0.005; IBD: 1.2% vs 0%; P < 0.02). Colonoscopy procedures were completed without major complications.

Conclusion

Colonoscopy is an important and safe procedure for the diagnosis of LGI compliants, especially hematochezia, which is frequently accompanied by colorectal polyps.

Endoscopic Management of a Double Duodenal Web: A Case Report of a Rare Alimentary Anomaly

Duodenal webs are a rare clinical entity with the presentation of a double duodenal web being exceedingly uncommon. Management of duodenal webs traditionally involves duodenal web excision with duodenoduodenostomy, which is usually performed via a laparoscopic or an open approach. We report the case of a 6-month-old child who presented with progressively worsening bilious emesis with imaging findings concerning for a duodenal web. Endoscopic evaluation was performed that identified 2 webs in the fourth portion of the duodenum. These were managed completely endoscopically with balloon dilation. Although surgery is the mainstay of treatment of duodenal webs, this patient was successfully managed by endoscopic intervention without the need for open or laparoscopic excision, which has not been previously described for double duodenal webs. This work demonstrates the safety and efficacy of endoscopic management for infants with this anomaly.

Endotherapy in pediatric pancreatitis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Some children with acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis stand to benefit from therapeutic endoscopic interventions. The purpose of this review is to summarize specific endoscopic therapies used for these conditions and highlight areas of future research.

RECENT FINDINGS

Multicenter collaboration and consortium efforts have provided more data now than ever on the technical outcomes and safety of therapeutic endoscopic procedures for pancreatitis in children. Indications are growing but more research is needed to help guide patient selection.

SUMMARY

Advanced endoscopic procedures including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, endoscopic-ultrasound guided therapies, and single-operator pancreatoscopy may be used in patients with acute recurrent or chronic pancreatitis to manage pancreatic duct obstruction or local complications including pseudocysts and walled-off necrosis. Patient and procedural factors differ between adults and children. Access to these procedures for younger children is growing, and technical outcomes and adverse event rates appear similar between adults and children.

Echo-Endoscopy Combined with Virtual Reality: A Whole Perspective of Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration in Children

Introduction: Endoscopic procedures are performed more frequently in children due to technological advances that can be safely performed in an adequate setting with a support of a multidisciplinary team. Pediatric indications for ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) and EUS (endoscopic ultrasound) occur mainly due to congenital malformations. In a pediatric case series, we report the application of EUS combined with duodenoscopy, eventually associated with ERCP and minimally invasive surgery, highlighting the importance of defining a tailored dedicated management pathway for each patient. Patients and methods: A series of 12 patients, managed at our Center in the last three years, were evaluated, and their management was discussed. Results: EUS was performed in eight patients and permitted the differential diagnosis of duplication cysts and the visualization of the biliary tree and pancreatic anatomy. ERCP was attempted in five patients: in one case, it permitted the preservation of pancreatic tissue, postponing surgery and in three patients, it was technically unfeasible. MIS (minimally invasive surgery) was performed in seven patients, two with laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE). Precise anatomical definition and the possibility of surgical simulation and team sharing were evaluated under VR HMD (Virtual Reality Head Mounted Display) in four cases. Conclusions: Exploration of the common bile duct in children differs from that of the adult population and combines echo-endoscopy and ERCP. The integrated use of minimally invasive surgery in the pediatric area is necessary for the whole management perspective in complex malformations and small patients. The introduction in the clinical practice of a preoperative study with Virtual Reality allows a better survey of the malformation and a tailored treatment.

Endoscopy and Pediatric Pancreatitis

Children and adolescents are increasingly impacted by pancreatic disease. Interventional endoscopic procedures, including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) and endoscopic ultrasonography, are integral to the diagnosis and management of many pancreatic diseases in the adult population. In the past decade, pediatric interventional endoscopic procedures have become more widely available, with invasive surgical procedures now being replaced by safer and less disruptive endoscopic interventions.

Mini-probe endoscopic ultrasound for the diagnosis of congenital esophageal or duodenal stenosis

PURPOSE

The usefulness of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in pediatric populations has been recently appreciated; however, published studies on mini-probe EUS in the diagnosis of congenital esophageal stenosis (CES) or congenital duodenal stenosis (CDS) in pre-school patients remain scarce. This study aimed to report the utility of mini-probe EUS for the diagnosis of CES or CDS in pre-school patients based on the etiology.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of pediatric patients with CES or CDS who underwent mini-probe EUS through the stenotic segments at our hospital between December 2006 and December 2021.

RESULTS

Five patients with CES and one with CDS were enrolled. The median age and body weight when EUS was performed were 12.5 months and 8.5 kg, respectively. Hypoechoic lesions were observed on EUS in three patients, which were assessed as cartilage; one patient had no hypoechoic lesion but had a focal thickness of the muscular layer. They were diagnosed with tracheobronchial remnants based on EUS. The full circumferential wall thickness of the esophagus was visualized in one patient with fibromuscular hypertrophy. The histopathological findings confirmed the diagnoses. In the patient with CDS, EUS findings revealed pancreatic parenchyma encircling the stenotic part of the duodenum. The preoperative diagnosis was annular pancreas. The patient underwent duodenoduodenostomy, and intraoperative findings confirmed the diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Mini-probe EUS can be recommended as a feasible and safe technique for infants and toddlers. It can effectively diagnose CES or CDS based on etiology and can inform treatment strategies for pre-school patients.

Measurement of Stricture Dimensions Using a Visual Comparative Estimation Method With Biopsy Forceps During Endoscopy

BACKGROUND

Estimation of the dimensions of endoscopic findings such as stricture diameter is largely subjective. Accurate assessment of stricture dimensions has multiple benefits including facilitating the choice of appropriately sized endoscopic therapies for treating stricture, properly tracking response to endoscopic therapies between procedures, and potentially even predicting outcomes of endoscopic therapy.

METHODS

Endoscopies performed in children with repaired esophageal atresia between August 2019 and August 2021 for which both (1) an endoscopic estimate of esophageal stricture diameter obtained by visual comparison with the known dimensions of the biopsy forceps and (2) an intraoperative esophageal fluoroscopy study were performed were included for analysis. Fluoroscopic stricture diameter measurements were manually obtained using a software ruler tool calibrated to the known dimensions of the intraluminal endoscope. Statistical concordance was calculated between the visual diameter estimates and the standard fluoroscopic stricture measurements.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-one endoscopies were included for analysis. Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was 0.92 (95% confidence interval: 0.89-0.94) between the visual diameter estimates and the fluoroscopic stricture measurements. Correlation was strongest for smaller to mid-sized stricture diameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of the biopsy forceps as a visual reference of known dimensions enables accurate visual estimation of esophageal stricture diameter during endoscopy using commonly available tools, with high concordance with standard fluoroscopic measurement techniques.

Musculoskeletal injury and ergonomics in pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopic practice

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopy-related musculoskeletal injuries (ERI) are increasingly prevalent in adult endoscopists; however, there are no studies that have evaluated ERI and ergonomic practices among pediatric gastroenterologists and trainees. We aimed to examine the prevalence, nature, and impact of musculoskeletal injuries in pediatric endoscopic practice and assess attitudes towards ergonomic training needs.

METHODS

Pediatric gastroenterologists and trainees were surveyed to collect information on endoscopist and practice characteristics, the prevalence, nature, and impacts of ERI, ergonomics strategies employed in practice, previous ergonomics training, and perceptions of ergonomics training (elicited using a 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree) Likert scale). Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and bivariate analyses were conducted to explore correlates of ERI.

RESULTS

Among 146 survey respondents, 50 (34.2%) were trainees and 96 (65.8%) were practicing endoscopists with a mean duration of endoscopic practice of 9.7 ± 9.4 years. Overall, 55.6% (n = 80/144) reported experiencing a musculoskeletal injury, with 34.7% (n = 50/144) reporting an injury attributable to endoscopy. Among those with ERI, the most common sites were the neck/upper back (44.0%), thumb (42.0%), hand/finger (38.0%), and lower back (36.0%). Women were more likely to experience ERI compared to men (43.4% vs. 23.4%; p = 0.013). Only 20.9% of participants had formal training in ergonomics. Respondents reported being motivated to implement practice changes to prevent ERI (4.41 ± 0.95) and perceived ergonomics training as important (4.37 ± 0.96).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric endoscopists, and particularly women, experience significant ERI; however, formal endoscopy ergonomics training is rare. Improved ergonomics training is needed for both practicing pediatric gastroenterologists and trainees.

Modified technique of peroral endoscopic myotomy using transnasal ultra-slim gastroscope in a child with achalasia cardia

Video 1Demonstration of the modified technique of peroral endoscopic myotomy in a small child with achalasia cardia wherein a standard gastroscope could not be used because of anatomical constraints.

Interventional endoscopy for abdominal transplant patients

Interventional endoscopy can play a significant role in the care and management of children pre-and post- abdominal solid organ transplantation. Such procedures primarily include endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and balloon-assisted enteroscopy (BAE), though additional interventions are available using standard endoscopes (gastroscopes, colonoscopes) for therapeutics purposes such as endoscopic hemostasis. The availability of pediatric practitioners with the advanced training to effectively and safely perform these procedures are most often limited to large tertiary care pediatric centers. These centers possess the necessary resources and ancillary staff to provide the comprehensive multi-disciplinary care needed for these complex patients. In this review, we discuss the importance of interventional endoscopy in caring for transplant patients, during their clinical course preceding the potential need for solid organ transplantation and inclusion of a discussion related to endoscopic post-surgical complication management. Given the highly important role of interventional endoscopy in patients with recurrent and chronic pancreatitis, we also include a discussion related to this complex disease process leading up to those patients that may need pancreas surgery including total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT).

Usefulness of endoscopic ultrasound in children with pancreatobiliary and gastrointestinal symptoms

Background and study aims  Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is useful in diagnosing and treating childhood pancreatobiliary and gastrointestinal diseases. However, there are limited data on its effectiveness for various indications. Patients and methods  This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of patients who underwent EUS for upper gastrointestinal tract disorders from January 2018 to December 2020 to assess its indications, findings, interventions, and complications. Results  Ninety-two procedures were performed in 85 children, (70.5 % male; mean [SD] age 12.1 years [3.9] years) with a mean (SD) symptom duration of 1.1 (0.5) years. The procedures were technically successful in all patients. The primary indication for EUS was abdominal pain in 45(52.9%) and jaundice/cholangitis in 15 patients (17.6 %). General anesthesia was used in 12 (13 %) and TIVA in 80 patients (87 %). The most common diagnostic findings were choledocholithiasis in 21 (24.7 %) and cholelithiasis in 12 patients (14.1 %). Among interventions, EUS-guided cystogastrostomy for pancreatic pseudocyst was done in four patients (4.7 %), and EUS-guided rendezvous for failed ERCP in one patient (1.2 %) with cholangitis. There were no immediate post-procedural complications. Overall, EUS had a meaningful impact on the subsequent clinical management in 69 cases (81.2 %). Conclusions  EUS in the pediatric population is safe, effective, and has a meaningful impact in appropriately selected cases. It can act as a rescue in major therapeutic procedures, but adequate care should be taken at the procedural level and during anesthesia.

Safety and efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool in pediatric patients: a multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Despite the well-established diagnostic and therapeutic applications of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in adults, data about its use in children are limited. In this study, we tried to assess the feasibility, safety, and clinical impact of EUS in pediatric patients.

METHODS

Data of pediatric patients (<18 years) referred for EUS over a 3-year period to the endoscopy units of four Egyptian tertiary centers were retrospectively analyzed. Significant impact was defined as a new diagnosis or treatment attributed to the EUS procedure.

RESULTS

Twenty-four diagnostic and five therapeutic EUS procedures were conducted in 29 children with a median age of 9 years. Indications for EUS included assessment of solid pancreatic mass (n = 3), pancreatic cyst (n = 2), suspected chronic pancreatitis (n = 9), pancreatic pseudocyst (PPC) (n = 5), recurrent hypoglycemia (n = 1), bile duct mass (n = 1), subepithelial lesion (esophageal, duodenal or anorectal) (n = 4), mediastinal mass (n = 1), pelvic mass (n = 3), and mass at splenic hilum (n = 1). Therapeutically, five patients underwent cystogastrostomy for symptomatic PPC with 100% technical and clinical success. EUS was able to diagnose 21 out of the other 24 patients. EUS-guided tissue acquisition was performed in 11 patients with definitive histopathological diagnosis in 10 patients (91%). There was no procedure-related major complication, while minor complications occurred in two cases (transient pain in one case, temporary fever, and vomiting in two cases).

CONCLUSION

Standard linear EUS equipment and accessories can be used safely and effectively in selected pediatric patients for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasound in children

Gastrointestinal endoscopy is fundamental to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in pediatric gastroenterology. In the decades since endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for hepatobiliary and pancreatic disease were introduced into clinical practice, there has been increasing interest in these procedures, and practice guidelines and position papers that clearly define the role of ERCP and EUS in children have been published. Based on the distinction of endoscopy between children and adults, this review focuses on the current state of ERCP and EUS procedures in children, including the types of endoscopes used in children, general anesthesia and radiation exposure, biliary and pancreatic indications, considerations of education and training for ERCP and EUS procedures in children, and expectations for development of endoscopes for children.

Opto-chemical treatment for enhanced high-level disinfection of mature bacterial biofilm in a Teflon-based endoscope model

Medical societies and public health agencies rigorously emphasize the importance of adequate disinfection of flexible endoscopes. The aim of this work was to propose a novel opto-chemical disinfection treatment against Staphylococcus aureus grown in mature biofilm on Teflon-based endoscope channel models. Laser irradiation using near-infrared and blue wavelengths combined with a low concentration of chemical disinfectant induced both irreversible thermal denaturation and intercellular oxidative stress as a combined mechanism for an augmented antimicrobial effect. The opto-chemical method yielded a 6.7-log₁₀ reduction of the mature Staphylococcus aureus biofilms (i.e., approximately 1.0-log₁₀ higher than current requirement of standard treatment). The proposed technique may be a feasible disinfection method for mitigating the risk associated with infection transmission.

Understanding the role of the gut in undernutrition: what can technology tell us?

Gut function remains largely underinvestigated in undernutrition, despite its critical role in essential nutrient digestion, absorption and assimilation. In areas of high enteropathogen burden, alterations in gut barrier function and subsequent inflammatory effects are observable but remain poorly characterised. Environmental enteropathy (EE)-a condition that affects both gut morphology and function and is characterised by blunted villi, inflammation and increased permeability-is thought to play a role in impaired linear growth (stunting) and severe acute malnutrition. However, the lack of tools to quantitatively characterise gut functional capacity has hampered both our understanding of gut pathogenesis in undernutrition and evaluation of gut-targeted therapies to accelerate nutritional recovery. Here we survey the technology landscape for potential solutions to improve assessment of gut function, focussing on devices that could be deployed at point-of-care in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). We assess the potential for technological innovation to assess gut morphology, function, barrier integrity and immune response in undernutrition, and highlight the approaches that are currently most suitable for deployment and development. This article focuses on EE and undernutrition in LMICs, but many of these technologies may also become useful in monitoring of other gut pathologies.

Gastrointestinal endoscopy in children and adults: How do they differ?

Gastrointestinal endoscopy has grown dramatically over the past century, and with subsequent improvements in technology and anaesthesia, it has become a safe and useful tool for evaluation of GI pathology in children. There are substantial differences between paediatric and adult endoscopy beyond size, including: age-related patho-physiology and the different spectrum of diseases in children. Literature on endoscopic procedures in children is sparse but significant. The present review aims at describing the current knowledges on paediatric endoscopy practice and highlights the main areas of differences between paediatric and adult practice.

Initial Experience With Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Coil Placement for Pediatric Gastric Variceal Hemostasis

BACKGROUND

Gastric variceal (GV) bleeding is among the most morbid sequelae of portal hypertension, with mortality ranging from 30% to 50%. Pediatric data focused on endoscopic approaches to management are needed. The present study represents the first pediatric case series of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided coil placement within feeding vessels as monotherapy for management of GV bleeding.

METHODS

Using our prospectively maintained endoscopy database, we identified patients 18 years and younger who underwent EUS-guided coil placement for management of GV bleeding from 2008 to 2018. Demographics, indication, procedural interventions/findings, and available clinical outcomes data were analyzed.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (median age 15, range 11-18 years) underwent EUS-guided coil placement for GV bleeding. All had portal hypertension, with EV in 58.3% and prior GV bleeding with attempted endoscopic management in 75%. Coil placement was accomplished using a linear echoendoscope and a 19-gauge needle. A mean of 2.75 (± 0.43) coils were placed in each patient (4, 6, 8, and 10 mm Nester Embolization Coils, Cook Medical, Bloomington, Indiana, USA). Immediate hemostasis was achieved in all patients, and 25% of patients developed recurrent gastric varices at a median of 5.5 months following the initial EUS-guided coil placement (range 4-6 months) over the median 12 month follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study establishes the feasibility and efficacy of EUS-guided coil placement as monotherapy for GV bleeding in children and adolescents. The technique was technically successful, with primary hemostasis achieved in all patients. EUS-guided embolization with coils may represent an alternative to current approaches for management of highly morbid GV bleeding.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in infants and children

Background and study aims  Previous reports have suggested that endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in pediatric patients are safe. However, the total number of cases presented in the literature remains small. We present results regarding safety and outcomes in pediatric patients undergoing ERCP at Oslo University Hospital. Patients and methods  Patients < 18 years who underwent ERCP between April 1999 and November 2017 were identified using procedure codes. Medical records were examined for age, gender, diagnosis, indications, type of sedation, findings, interventions, and complications. Results  A total of 244 procedures were performed in 158 patients. Fifty-six of these were in 53 infants (age ≤ 1 year). Mean age was 8.8 years. The youngest patient was 8 days old. Mean weight was 5.0 kg in infants, the smallest weighing 2.9 kg. Cannulation failed in 19 (7.8 %). The main indication in infants was suspicion of biliary atresia (n = 38). Six of the procedures (10.7 %) were therapeutic. In children the main indications were biliary stricture (n = 64) and investigation of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) (n = 45). 119 (63.2 %) of these procedures were therapeutic. Complications were uncommon in infants; only two episodes of infection were registered. In children (> 1 year) post-ERCP pancreatitis were seen in 10.4 %. Conclusions  Our retrospective series of ERCP procedures includes 56 procedures in infants, which is one of the largest series presented. Complications in infants are rare and post-ERCP pancreatitis was not seen. In older children 10.4 % experienced post-ERCP pancreatitis. In expert hands, ERCP was shown to be acceptably feasible and safe in infants and children.

Evolution in the Practice of Pediatric Endoscopy and Sedation

The fields of pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy and sedation are critically important to the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) disease in children. Since its inception in the 1970s, pediatric endoscopy has benefitted from tremendous technological innovation related to the design of the endoscope and its associated equipment. Not only that, but expertise among pediatric gastroenterologists has moved the field forward to include a full complement of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures in children. In this review, we discuss the remarkable history of pediatric endoscopy and highlight current limitations and future advances in the practice and technology of pediatric endoscopy and sedation.

Role of endoscopic ultrasound in pediatric patients: A single tertiary center experience and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Although endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is now widely available and has an established role in adults, the utility of EUS and EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) in pediatrics is insufficiently described compared to adults and is supported by only a few studies.

AIM

To report the experience of a single tertiary center in the use of EUS and EUS-FNA in a pediatric population and to further assess its safety, feasibility, and clinical impact on management.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 13 children (aged 18 years or younger) identified from our medical database was conducted. A retrospective review of demographic data, procedure indications, EUS findings, and the clinical impact of EUS on the subsequent management of these patients was performed.

RESULTS

During the 4-year study period, a total of 13 (1.7%) pediatric EUS examinations out of 749 EUS procedures were performed in our unit. The mean age of these 8 females and 5 males was 15.6 years (range: 6-18). Six of the 13 EUS examinations were pancreatobiliary (46.1%), followed by mediastinal 2/13 (15.4%), peri-gastric 2/13 (15.4%), abdominal lymphadenopathy 1/13 (7.7%), tracheal 1/13 (7.7%) and rectal 1/13 (7.7%). Overall, EUS-FNA was performed in 7 patients (53.8%) with a diagnostic yield of 100%. The EUS results had a significant impact on clinical care in 10/13 (77%) cases. No complications occurred in these patients during or after any of the procedures.

CONCLUSION

EUS and EUS-FNA in the pediatric population are safe, feasible, and have a significant clinical impact on the subsequent management; thus avoiding invasive and unnecessary procedures.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in Infants: Availability Under Threat: A Survey on Availability, Need, and Clinical Practice in Europe and Israel

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in infants (younger than 1 year of age) is a highly specialized procedure. Since 2014 opportunities to maintain or purchase duodenoscopes for ERCP in infants have disappeared. In a survey among European hepatology centers (including Israel) we evaluated the availability, need, indications, and practice of ERCP procedures in infants. It shows that infant ERCP is a low-volume procedure (median 5 procedures/year) in the 14 centers that perform this procedure. Since 2014 several centers no longer have an infant ERCP duodenoscope due to breakdown. In addition, substantial differences exist between centers in indications, types of interventions performed, and practical execution of ERCP procedures in infants. We conclude that a concerted effort by the pediatric hepatology community is needed to secure the future availability of infant ERCP. In addition, consensus on the indications and optimal use of infant ERCP could improve the quality of ERCP care for infants.

Gastrointestinal Endoscopy in the Neonate

Gastrointestinal endoscopy permits direct observation of the alimentary tract, acquisition of mucosal tissue for histopathologic examination, and other diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers. Endoscopes of appropriate size for many neonates and an expanding array of compatible tools and accessories have broadened what is possible, although few neonatal data exist to guide use. Evaluation and treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding, evaluation and dilation of fibromuscular congenital esophageal stenosis, and the bedside placement of gastrostomy tube have been described. Careful consideration of risks, benefits, and discussions between involved specialties permit patient-specific application of these tools and techniques to augment care of this vulnerable population.

The Roles of Endoscopic Ultrasound and Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in the Evaluation and Treatment of Chronic Pancreatitis in Children: A Position Paper From the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Pancreas Committee

INTRODUCTION

Pediatric chronic pancreatitis is increasingly diagnosed. Endoscopic methods [endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)] are useful tools to diagnose and manage chronic pancreatitis. Pediatric knowledge and use of these modalities is limited and warrants dissemination.

METHODS

Literature review of publications relating to use of ERCP and EUS for diagnosis and/or management of chronic pancreatitis with special attention to studies involving 0--18 years old subjects was conducted with summaries generated. Recommendations were developed and voted upon by authors.

RESULTS

Both EUS and ERCP can be used even in small children to assist in diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis in cases where cross-sectional imaging is not sufficient to diagnose or characterize the disease. Children under 15 kg for EUS and 10 kg for ERCP can be technically challenging. These procedures should be done optimally by appropriately trained endoscopists and adult gastroenterology providers with appropriate experience treating children. EUS and ERCP-related risks both include perforation, bleeding and pancreatitis. EUS is the preferred diagnostic modality over ERCP because of lower complication rates overall. Both modalities can be used for management of chronic pancreatitis -related fluid collections. ERCP has successfully been used to manage pancreatic duct stones.

CONCLUSION

EUS and ERCP can be safely used to diagnose chronic pancreatitis in pediatric patients and assist in management of chronic pancreatitis-related complications. Procedure-related risks are similar to those seen in adults, with EUS having a safer risk profile overall. The recent increase in pediatric-trained specialists will improve access of these modalities for children.

Pediatric Endoscopy, Update 2020

Optimal management of pediatric endoscopy requires a multidisciplinary approach. In most hospitals, endoscopy in pediatric patients is performed by conventional gastroenterologists and only a few centers have specialized pediatric gastroenterologists. This is due to the fact that the number of pediatric gastroenterologists is limited and not all of them are experienced in endoscopic techniques. However, there are also some pediatric centers offering a high-quality and high-volume endoscopy service provided by very experienced pediatric gastroenterologists. Up to now, the literature on pediatric endoscopy is rather sparse. In this article, we describe current knowledge and practice of endoscopic procedures in pediatric patients, which should be relevant for both the adult and pediatric gastroenterologists.

Pediatric Endoscopy and High-risk Patients: A Clinical Report From the NASPGHAN Endoscopy Committee

Pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy has been established as safe and effective for diagnosis and management of many pediatric gastrointestinal diseases. Nevertheless, certain patient and procedure factors should be recognized that increase the risk of intra- and/or postprocedural adverse events (AEs). AEs associated with endoscopic procedures can broadly be categorized as involving sedation-related physiological changes, bleeding, perforation, and infection. Factors which may increase patient risk for such AEs include but are not limited to, cardiopulmonary diseases, anatomical airway or craniofacial abnormalities, compromised intestinal luminal wall integrity, coagulopathies, and compromised immune systems. Examples of high-risk patients include patients with congenital heart disease, craniofacial abnormalities, connective tissues diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, and children undergoing treatment for cancer. This clinical report is intended to help guide clinicians stratify patient risks and employ clinical practices that may minimize AEs during and after endoscopy. These include use of CO2 insufflation, endoscopic techniques for maneuvers such as biopsies, and endoscope loop-reduction to mitigate the risk of such complications such as bleeding and intestinal perforation. Endoscopic infection risk and guidance regarding periprocedural antibiotics are also discussed.

Endoscopic ultrasound in pediatric population: a comprehensive review of the literature

Background and aim: Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) with or without fine needle aspiration/biopsy (FNA/B) is a well-established diagnostic tool in adults for the evaluation and management of gastrointestinal (GI) tract disorders. Its use in children is still limited as well as literature in pediatric age is limited, although the application of EUS is now increasing. The present article aims to review the current literature about EUS indication, accuracy and safety in pediatric age. Methods: Electronic literature searches were conducted using Pubmed, Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using the word pediatric endoscopic ultrasound, pediatric pancreaticobiliary AND/OR EUS, pediatric EUS technique. Main patients and procedures characteristics were analyzed. The primary endpoint was the indication of EUS. Secondary endpoints were the accuracy of the technique and the incidence of complications. Results: Data were extracted from 19 articles. A total of 571 patients were investigated, with a median age of 12,7 years. A total of 634 EUS procedures were performed. The majority of EUS procedures investigated the pancreaticobiliary tract (77,7%). Most studies showed a high positive impact on management with a median value of 81,7%. No major complications were reported. Five studies reported minor complications with a median value of 2%. Conclusions: EUS is safe and has a significant role in the diagnosis of pancreaticobiliary and GI diseases even in children, with a high therapeutic success. An increasing EUS utilization by pediatric gastroenterologists is expected and offering dedicated EUS training to some selected pediatric gastroenterologists might be indicated. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Applications of wireless capsule endoscopy in pediatric age: an update

Background: The small bowel has often been considered the mysterious “black hole” of the gastrointestinal tract. With regards to this, the development of the wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) has represented a turning point. It is a non-invasive technique, enabling an excellent visualization of the small bowel (SB) mucosa without the use of radiation. The WCE was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001 for adults and in 2004 for children. The aim of the present review is to provide an update on indications, diagnostic yield, safety and limitations of WCE in children. Even though literature regarding the use of WCE in pediatric age is more limited than in adults,WCE is a useful and safe diagnostic tool for the exploration of the small bowel also in children. The indications for WCE are similar at any age, however the main indication in children is Crohn’s disease (CD), while in the adults is the research of SB bleeding. The main limitation in pediatric age is the possibility for younger children to swallow the capsule. WCE in pediatric is a rapidly advancing technology and has the potential to further transform the evaluation and management of SB disease. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Magnetic-Guided Capsule Endoscopy in the Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Diseases in Minors

Objective

This study aimed at investigating the clinical value of magnetic-guided capsule endoscopy (MGCE) in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases in minors.

Methods

Eighty-four minor patients hospitalized in the pediatric department at Ruijin Hospital between June 2015 and January 2018 were enrolled for this study. Following bowel preparation, all patients underwent MGCE. The feasibility, safety, diagnostic yield, and sensitivity of MGCE were analyzed. Patients were followed up for more than 2 weeks.

Results

The main indications for MGCE in minors were Crohn's disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, and abdominal pain. The main causes of gastric disease were gastric inflammatory hyperplasia, exudative gastritis, and polyps. The most common small bowel diseases in minors were Crohn's disease, Henoch-Schonlein purpura, and polyps. The diagnostic yield in the stomach and small intestine was 13.1% and 28.6%, respectively, and the sensitivity was 100% and 96.0%, respectively. No adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

MGCE is a safe, effective, and well-tolerated procedure with good sensitivity and has a potential clinic value for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases in minors.

Primary Prophylaxis for Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Children With Biliary Atresia and Portal Hypertension Candidates for Liver Transplantation: A Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Cirrhosis for biliary atresia (BA) is associated with risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (GB) from gastroesophageal varices due to portal hypertension. Primary prophylaxis of GB is controversial in children who are candidates for liver transplantation (LT). The aim of the study was to define the management of gastroesophageal varices and to identify the benefit of primary prophylaxis for GB in BA children waiting for LT.

METHODS

A retrospective single-center study including all BA children listed for LT in 2008-2016. Clinical, endoscopical, and biochemical data were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 82 children, 50 (61%) did not receive primary prophylaxis and did not present any episode of bleeding, 16 (19.5%) underwent primary prophylaxis, and 16 (19.5%) presented spontaneous GB and received secondary prophylaxis. Children without primary prophylaxis and GB were younger than patients with primary prophylaxis and those with GB (7.7 years [range, 4.1-37.9 years] vs 11.2 years [range, 5.1-43 years]; P = .03 vs 10.7 years [range, 6.9-39.9 years], respectively; P = .004). Seventy-five percent of GB occurred in children older than 8 months. Fifteen (93.8%) children with GB presented esophageal varices (grade III = 10 [62.5%]) and 10 (62.5%) required endoscopic treatments, consisting mainly of sclerotherapy. Median time to LT was similar for children with or without bleeding (2 months [range, 0-17.7 months] vs 2.2 months [0-17.9 months], respectively; P = .89). After 45.5 months (range, 13.7-105.5 months) of follow-up, the overall patient survival was 97.6%. At the intention-to-treat analysis, the survival rate was 100% for patients without bleeding episode and 87.5% for children with GB (P = .16).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the risk of GB being not clinically predictable in children with BA waiting for LT, our experience suggests that primary prophylaxis of GB might be unnecessary in children younger than 6 months, while it should be considered in older children. Thus, the occurrence of GB does not delay the timing of transplantation.

Position paper: The potential role of optical biopsy in the study and diagnosis of environmental enteric dysfunction

Environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) is a disease of the small intestine affecting children and adults in low and middle income countries. Arising as a consequence of repeated infections, gut inflammation results in impaired intestinal absorptive and barrier function, leading to poor nutrient uptake and ultimately to stunting and other developmental limitations. Progress towards new biomarkers and interventions for EED is hampered by the practical and ethical difficulties of cross-validation with the gold standard of biopsy and histology. Optical biopsy techniques - which can provide minimally invasive or noninvasive alternatives to biopsy - could offer other routes to validation and could potentially be used as point-of-care tests among the general population. This Consensus Statement identifies and reviews the most promising candidate optical biopsy technologies for applications in EED, critically assesses them against criteria identified for successful deployment in developing world settings, and proposes further lines of enquiry. Importantly, many of the techniques discussed could also be adapted to monitor the impaired intestinal barrier in other settings such as IBD, autoimmune enteropathies, coeliac disease, graft-versus-host disease, small intestinal transplantation or critical care.

Study to determine guidelines for pediatric colonoscopy

AIM

To investigated characteristics, diagnosis, bowel-cleansing preparation, sedation, and colonoscope length and diameter in Japanese pediatric patients receiving total colonoscopy.

METHODS

The present study evaluated consecutive patients aged ≤ 15 years who had undergone their first colonoscopy in Kurume University between January 2007 and February 2015. Data were retrospectively analyzed. We identified 110 pediatric patients who had undergone colonoscopy that had reached the cecum, allowing the observation of the total colon.

RESULTS

Hematochezia, abdominal pain, and diarrhea were the most common symptoms. For bowel-cleansing preparation, pediatric patients aged ≤ 12 years were treated with magnesium citrate, and patients aged 13-15 years were treated with polyethylene glycol 4000. For sedation, thiamylal with pentazocine, which has an analgesic effect, was used in patients aged ≤ 6 years, and midazolam with pentazocine was used in patients aged ≥ 7 years. Regarding the choice of endoscope, short and thin endoscopes were selected for younger patients, particularly patients aged ≤ 3 years. Positive diagnoses were made in 78 patients (70.9%). Inflammatory bowel disease (n = 49, 44.5%), including ulcerative colitis (n = 37, 33.6%) and Crohn’s disease (n = 12, 10.9%), was the most common diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Colonoscopy offers a high diagnostic capability for pediatric patients with gastrointestinal symptoms. The selection of appropriate management the performance of colonoscopy is important in pediatric patients.

Caustic ingestion in children-A review

Various domestic or industrial chemicals may cause significant upper aerodigestive tract burns. Preventive measures should be up-scaled, especially in the developing world, to reduce the epidemic of accidental victims, largely unsupervised preschool children. External signs do not predict degree of injury. Non-invasive diagnostic screening includes radio-nuclear imaging, but early oesophago-gastroduodenoscopy remains the standard to predict stricture formation from circumferential submucosal scarring. Serial dilation is the mainstay of oesophageal stricture therapy, with oesophageal replacement reserved for severe refractory strictures. Intra-lesional steroid or mitomycin C may decrease the dilatations required for severe strictures, although long-term effects are unknown. Risk of secondary oesophageal carcinoma mandates long-term surveillance.

Specialized Imaging and Procedures in Pediatric Pancreatology: A North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Clinical Report

OBJECTIVES

An increasing number of children are being diagnosed with pancreatitis and other pancreatic abnormalities. Dissemination of the information regarding existing imaging techniques and endoscopic modalities to diagnose and manage pancreatic disorders in children is sorely needed.

METHODS

We conducted a review of the medical literature on the use of the following imaging and procedural modalities in pediatric pancreatology: transabdominal ultrasonography (TUS), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Recommendations for current use and future research were identified.

RESULTS

TUS offers noninvasive images of the pancreas but has limitations to details of parenchyma and ductal structures. CT offers improved detail of pancreatic parenchyma, solid masses, and traumatic injuries, but requires relatively high levels of ionizing radiation and does not adequately assess ductal anatomy. MRI/MRCP offers detailed intrinsic tissue assessment and pancreatic ductal characterization, but requires longer image acquisition time and is relatively poor at imaging calcifications. EUS provides excellent evaluation of pancreatic parenchyma and ductal anatomy, but can be subjective and operator dependent and requires sedation or anesthesia. EUS offers the capacity to obtain tissue samples and drain fluid collections and ERCP offers the ability to improve drainage by performing sphincterotomy or placing pancreatic stents across duct injuries and strictures.

CONCLUSIONS

Various imaging modalities may be used in pediatric pancreatology, but TUS and MRI/MRCP are favored. Interventional therapeutic maneuvers primarily involve use of ERCP and EUS. Future research is necessary to optimize equipment, expertise, and appropriate indications.

Guideline for wireless capsule endoscopy in children and adolescents: A consensus document by the SEGHNP (Spanish Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition) and the SEPD (Spanish Society for Digestive Diseases)

INTRODUCTION

Capsule Endoscopy (CE) in children has limitations based mainly on age. The objective of this consensus was reviewing the scientific evidence.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Some experts from the Spanish Society of Gastroenterology (SEPD) and Spanish Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (SEGHNP) were invited to answer different issues about CE in children. These sections were: a) Indications, contraindications and limitations; b) efficacy of CE in different clinical scenarios; c) CE performance; d) CE-related complications; e) Patency Capsule; and f) colon capsule endoscopy. They reviewed relevant questions on each topic.

RESULTS

The main indication is Crohn's disease (CD). There is no contraindication for the age and in the event that the patient not to swallow it, it should be administered under deep sedation with endoscopy and specific device. The CE is useful in CD, for the management of OGIB in children and in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (in this indication has the most effectiveness). The main complication is retention, which should be specially taken into account in cases of CD already diagnosed with malnutrition. A preparation regimen based on a low volume of polyethylene glycol (PEG) the day before plus simethicone on the same day is the best one in terms of cleanliness although does not improve the results of the CE procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

CE is safe and useful in children. Indications are similar to those of adults, the main one is CD to establish both a diagnosis and disease extension. Moreover, only few limitations are detected in children.

ERCP in infants, children and adolescents is feasible and safe: results from a tertiary care center

Background

Indications for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in children differ from adults. Paucity of data and concerns about potential lower effectiveness and more side effects limit its use even in high volume centers. We retrospectively analyzed indications, success rates, limitations, and side effects of ERCPs in children <18 years.

Methods

From January 2012 to March 2015, 54 ERCPs were performed in 31 children (median age 11 (0-17) years; median weight 22 (3.3-142.7) kg) with suspected choledocholithiasis (n = 13 interventions in 9 patients), post-transplantation anastomotic stenosis (10/4), malignancy (10/5), chronic pancreatitis (7/1), biliary atresia (6/6), anomaly (2/2), leak (4/3), or primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) (2/1). All patients were followed up as inpatients.

Results

Thirty-six therapeutic and 18 diagnostic procedures were performed by adult ERCP expert endoscopists. Successful intervention was achieved in 90.7% of cases. Failed cannulation (n = 4) was associated with lower body weight (p = 0.023). In children younger than 1 year, ERCP was significantly more often diagnostic than in patients >1 year (p < 0.001). In three of six infants with suspected atresia, surgical exploration was avoided. Five complications were recorded (9.3%), and included four episodes of mild pancreatitis (7.4% post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) rate) and one cholangitis in PSC. A trend towards a protective effect of pancreatic stents on PEP was observed. All complications were managed conservatively. No complications were attributed to mechanical stress on the gastrointestinal tract.

Conclusions

ERCP in newborns, infants, and adolescents can be safely performed with high technical and clinical success. Endoscopists must be aware of differing spectrum of pediatric diseases. Failed cannulation was associated with lower body weight of young children. Complications were similar to rates reported in adults.

Endoscopic ultrasound with or without fine-needle aspiration has a meaningful impact on clinical care in the pediatric population

Background and Objectives:

The safety and utility of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for the evaluation and management of gastrointestinal (GI) tract disorders among adults has been established. The literature on safety and efficacy in a pediatric referral population (under 21 years of age) is limited. We hypothesized that EUS is safe and useful in the pediatric population. We reviewed the pediatric EUS experience at a single tertiary-care system. We describe the indications, findings, safety, technical success rate, and impact on clinical outcomes.

Patients and Methods:

All patients 21 years of age or younger referred for EUS between 5, 2007 and 11, 2012 were identified from our electronic medical record databases. Retrospective chart review was then conducted to document demographics, procedure indications, procedure type (diagnostic or therapeutic), type of anesthesia used, EUS findings, and the clinical impact of EUS on the subsequent management of the patients.

Results:

Seventy EUS procedures were attempted in 58 patients during the study. Of these, two EUS procedures were aborted due to inadequate moderate sedation and 68 were successfully completed. The median age at initial endoscopy was 18 years (range 6–21 years), 50% were male and 65% were Caucasian. Four patients underwent EUS-guided pseudocyst drainage. Among the remaining 54 patients, the indications for EUS were the evaluation of GI mucosal/submucosal lesions (n = 14), acute or recurrent pancreatitis (n = 10), localization of suspected insulinoma (n = 8), evaluation of pancreatic abnormalities seen on prior imaging (n = 6), surveillance of tumors or evaluation of luminal lesions in hereditary syndromes (n = 6), abdominal pain of suspected pancreatobiliary origin (n = 5), and other rare indications (n = 5). Fine-needle aspiration was performed in 13 (9 diagnostic, 4 therapeutic) and trans-gastric fine-needle contrast injection of the pancreatic duct was performed in one patient without any complications. Sedation (data available for 66 procedures) included general endotracheal anesthesia in 38 (57%), monitored anesthesia care (MAC) in 19 (29%), and moderate sedation in 9 (14%). There were 4 minor intra-procedural anesthesia-related complications (laryngospasm in 2 and hypoxemia from airway obstruction and secretions in 2) in MAC and general endotracheal anesthesia (GA) cases, and 1 postprocedural complication (fever after pseudocyst drainage). EUS can achieve the diagnostic or therapeutic goal and ruled out suspected pathology in 88% of cases precluding need for additional testing.

Conclusions:

(1) EUS in the pediatric population is technically successful and efficacious. (2) Therapeutic and diagnostic EUS impacted clinical care decisions. (3) There is a low risk of immediate significant complications. (4) The overall efficacy and safety support the performance of EUS in a pediatric population by experienced endoscopists.

Paediatric Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition and European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Guidelines

This guideline refers to infants, children, and adolescents ages 0 to 18 years. The areas covered include indications for diagnostic and therapeutic esophagogastroduodenoscopy and ileocolonoscopy; endoscopy for foreign body ingestion; corrosive ingestion and stricture/stenosis endoscopic management; upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding; endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography; and endoscopic ultrasonography. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy and endoscopy specific to inflammatory bowel disease has been dealt with in other guidelines and are therefore not mentioned in this guideline. Training and ongoing skill maintenance are to be dealt with in an imminent sister publication to this.

Endoscopic Evaluation in Children With End-Stage Liver Disease-Associated Portal Hypertension Awaiting Liver Transplant

OBJECTIVES

Routine oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGD) pre-liver transplantation (LT) for evaluation and management of gastrointestinal (GI) pathology, in particular GI varices secondary to portal hypertension, is common practice in adult LT programmes. There is no universal consensus for this practice in children. We report our endoscopic experience in children with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) pre-LT.

METHODS

Retrospective audit of LT database and review of OGD findings of patients who had undergone endoscopy preceding LT.

RESULTS

Of 69 patients with ESLD, 50 (72.4%) had pre-LT OGD, 37 of which were done electively, whereas the remaining 13 were event driven. Forty-eight (96%) patients who underwent OGD had abnormalities, in which 38 (76%) patients had varices and 23 (46%) had portal hypertensive gastropathy. Eleven (22%) patients required therapeutic intervention at initial OGD either with endoscopic variceal band ligation or endoscopic sclerotherapy. Compared with the group who underwent elective OGDs, the group who had event-driven OGDs had a significantly higher requirement for endoscopic intervention (P < 0.0001), occurrence of rebleeding (P < 0.029) and requirement for repeat OGDs (P = 0.014). There was no significant difference in terms of patient (P = 0.2746) or graft survival (P = 0.3192) between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The role of pre-LT OGDs in patients with ESLD associated with portal hypertension is possibly limited to control of bleeding during episodes of GI bleed, where the aim would be to stabilize the patient until eventual LT. Multicentre prospective studies are required to provide more evidence on the use of routine endoscopy for pre-LT assessment in children.

Developing the Pediatric Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit: A Clinical Report by the Endoscopy and Procedures Committee

There is significant variability in the design and management of pediatric endoscopy units. Although there is information on adult endoscopy units, little guidance is available to the pediatric endoscopy practitioner. The purpose of this clinical report, prepared by the NASPGHAN Endoscopy and Procedures Committee, is to review the important considerations for setting up an endoscopy unit for children. A systematic review of the literature was undertaken in the preparation of this report regarding the design, management, needed equipment, motility setup, billing and coding, and pediatric specific topics.

Western view of the management of gastroesophageal foreign bodies

The best modality for foreign body removal has been the subject of much controversy over the years. We have read with great interest the recent article by Souza Aguiar Municipal Hospital, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, describing their experience with the management of esophageal foreign bodies in children. Non-endoscopic methods of removing foreign bodies (such as a Foley catheter guided or not by fluoroscopy) have been successfully used at this center. These methods could be an attractive option because of the following advantages: Shorter hospitalization time; easy to perform; no need for anesthesia; avoids esophagoscopy; and lower costs. However, the complications of these procedures can be severe and potentially fatal if not performed correctly, such as bronchoaspiration, perforation, and acute airway obstruction. In addition, it has some disadvantages, such as the inability to directly view the esophagus and the inability to always retrieve foreign bodies. Therefore, in Western countries clinical practice usually recommends endoscopic removal of foreign bodies under direct vision and with airway protection whenever possible.

The safety and efficacy of ERCP in the pediatric population with standard scopes: Does size really matter?

Experience with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the pediatric population is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of ERCP in the pediatric population performed by adult gastroenterologists with standard duodenoscopes. This study is a structured retrospective review of endoscopic reports, computerized and paper medical records, and radiographic images of patients under the age of 18 who underwent ERCP for any indication at a tertiary referral centre. Data regarding demographic characteristics and medical history of patients, indications, technical success rate, final clinical diagnosis, and complications were analyzed. Forty-eight children with a mean age of 13 years (range 2–17) underwent a total of 65 ERCPs. The indications of ERCP were as follows; suspected choledocholithiasis (55 %), post-liver transplantation anastomotic biliary strictures (21 %), post-surgical bile duct injury (10 %), choledochal cyst (2 %), recurrent or chronic pancreatitis (10 %), and trauma (2 %). The cannulation success rate in the overall procedure was 93.8 %. Therapeutic interventions were performed in 70.7 % of patients. Post ERCP pancreatitis was the most common complication occurring in 9.2 % of patients, and no procedure related mortality occurred. When performed by well-trained adult gastroenterologists, the use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with standard duodenoscopes is safe in pediatric population.

Pediatric Considerations in Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is a technically challenging endoscopic technique that provides a minimally invasive way of evaluating and treating pathologic abnormality in the bile ducts and pancreas. Its utilization in children is increasing rapidly, broadening the understanding of its pediatric indications, clinical utility, and technical limitations. This article updates providers about specific considerations of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in children as they relate to appropriate indications, patient preparation, available equipment, as well as expected technical and clinical outcomes following the procedure in pediatric populations.

Setting up the Pediatric Endoscopy Unit

As pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy continues to develop and evolve, pediatric gastroenterologists are more frequently called on to develop and direct a pediatric endoscopy unit. Lack of published literature and focused training in fellowship can render decision making about design, capacity, operation, equipment purchasing, and staffing challenging. To help guide management decisions, we distributed a short survey to 18 pediatric gastroenterology centers throughout the United States and Canada. This article provides practical guidance by summarizing available expert opinions on the topic of setting up a pediatric endoscopy unit.