Radiofrequency ablation for intraductal extension of ampullary neoplasms

Determining the value of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the management of patients with acute pancreatitis and related complications

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has evolved from a diagnostic to a therapeutic tool in acute pancreatitis management, largely due to the availability of less invasive diagnostic modalities such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP).

AREAS COVERED

This review explores the therapeutic applications of ERCP across various acute pancreatitis etiologies and its role in managing complications such as bile duct obstructions, pancreatic duct disruptions, and infected necrosis. The discussion highlights the procedure's expanding indications and its critical role in addressing complex cases.

EXPERT OPINION

ERCP remains central to the management of acute pancreatitis complications. As endoscopic techniques and devices continue to advance, its therapeutic scope is likely to grow. Performing ERCP for appropriate indications and optimizing its use is essential for minimizing risks and improving outcomes.

Verification in an animal study of the appropriate settings for a novel radiofrequency generator in radiofrequency ablation therapy for residual intraductal lesions after endoscopic papillectomy (with video)

Endoscopic intraductal radiofrequency ablation (ID-RFA) can curatively treat residual intraductal lesions after endoscopic papillectomy. This study aimed to verify the tissue invasiveness of ID-RFA using a novel RF generator and to explore its appropriate settings in an animal experiment, followed by a small clinical study. Pig liver specimens were ablated using a dedicated RF catheter and two RF generators to investigate structural differences between them and the ablation effects produced under various voltage and power settings. Appropriate settings for the novel generator were sought to provide an ablation effect equivalent to that with the recommended settings for a conventional generator. The ablation effect was also observed at various ablation times in vitro. Then we performed ID-RFA in five patients. Each generator has a different structure, and no novel generator settings are identical to the recommended conventional generator settings. Obtaining adequate ablation requires both sufficient power and sufficient voltage. Based on the validation experiments, we concluded that the appropriate novel generator settings were 125 Vp and 30 W for 30 s. In the clinical study, good tumor ablation was obtained with no recurrence after a single ID-RFA treatment, although the incidence of ductal stricture was relatively high. ID-RFA for residual intraductal lesions may potentially be curative. However, excessive ablation should be avoided. To ensure safe and effective ID-RFA, a thorough understanding of the RF generator specifications is required.

Safety of intrabiliary radiofrequency ablation in cases of residual and recurrent neoplasia after endoscopic papillectomy

Background and study aims

Intrabiliary radiofrequency ablation (IB-RFA) is a therapeutic option for cases of positive margin or recurrence after endoscopic papillectomy (EP) for superficial neoplasia. We report our experience concerning safety and efficiency of IB-RFA.

Patients and methods

This was a single tertiary center retrospective study. All patients who underwent IB-RFA indicated for residual or recurrent neoplasia after EP were included. We assessed morbidity (<30 days) and late complications (>30 days). Secondary outcomes were clinical success and late recurrence (absence of recurrence at the papillectomy site 12 months after IB-RFA and recurrence beyond 12 months, respectively).

Results

Twenty-five patients were included and underwent IB-RFA for deep positive margins (20/25, 80%) or relapse (5/25, 20%) and 40 sessions were delivered. The morbidity rate was 8% (2/24) (1 pancreatitis, 1 bleeding). Acute pancreatitis was significantly more common in the absence of pancreatic stenting (0% vs. 22%, P =0.046). One patient for whom pancreatic stenting failed died from acute severe pancreatitis in the first month (mortality rate=4%). Late complications occurred in 12 of 24 patients (50%) concerning only biliary stricture, all of which were managed endoscopically without sequelae. The clinical success rate was 92% (22/24), and late recurrence occurred in two of 24 patients (8%).

Conclusions

IB-RFA is relatively safe and efficient in cases of residual or recurrent neoplasia after EP and is an alternative to surgery in well-selected cases. Biliary stricture occurred frequently (50%) but could be managed endoscopically without sequelae in all cases. In cases of pancreatic stenting failure and because of the risk of severe and potentially lethal acute pancreatitis, IB-RFA should be postponed.

Long-term Outcomes of Ampullary Adenoma According to Resected Margin Status after Endoscopic Papillectomy

Background/Aims

: Endoscopic papillectomy (EP) is increasingly used as an alternative to surgery for managing benign ampullary neoplasms. However, post-EP resection margins are often positive or indeterminate, and there is no consensus on the management of ampullary adenomas with positive or indeterminate margins after EP. This study was designed to compare the long-term outcomes between resected margin-negative (RMN) and resected margin-positive/indeterminate (RMPI) groups and to identify factors associated with clinical outcomes.

Methods

: This retrospective analysis included patients with ampullary adenoma without evidence of adenocarcinoma who underwent EP between 2004 and 2016. The RMN and RMPI groups were compared for recurrence rates and recurrence-free duration during a mean follow-up duration of 71.7±39.8 months. Factors related to clinical outcomes were identified using multivariate analysis.

Results

: Of the 129 patients who underwent EP, 82 were in the RMN group and 47 were in the RMPI group. The RMPI group exhibited a higher recurrence rate compared to the RMN group (14.6% vs 34.0%, p=0.019). However, the recurrence-free duration was not significantly different between the groups (34.7±32.6 months vs 36.2±27.4 months, p=0.900). Endoscopic treatment successfully managed recurrence in both groups (75% vs 75%). Submucosal injection was a significant risk factor for residual lesions (hazard ratio, 4.11; p=0.009) and recurrence (hazard ratio, 2.57; p=0.021).

Conclusions

: Although ampullary adenomas with positive or indeterminate margins after EP showed a higher rate of recurrence at long-term follow-up, endoscopic treatment was effective with favorable long-term outcomes. Submucosal injection prior to resection was associated with increased risk of recurrence and residual lesions.

Ablation Therapy of the Biliary Tree: Status and Comprehensive Review

Malignant biliary obstruction is typically referred to endoscopists for palliation. A curative resection is indeed rarely an option in this condition. Photodynamic therapy and radiofrequency ablation are 2 modalities that can be offered in those patients. Many studies have demonstrated improved stent patency and survival after ablation. Photodynamic therapy is unfortunately very expensive and is associated with photosensitivity; however, it transmits to the entire biliary tree. Radiofrequency ablation is more affordable and easier to apply but requires contact with the tumor to be efficient. This review explores both modalities in terms of their safety and efficacy for bile duct cancer palliation.

The timing of recurrence after endoscopic papillectomy

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic papillectomy (EP) offers a safe and effective method for resection of ampullary adenomas. Data regarding the long-term resolution of adenoma following EP are limited. The aim of this study therefore was to examine the timing of recurrence after EP of ampullary adenomas.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective study including patients who received EP for ampullary adenomas from 8/2000 to 1/2018. Patients with confirmed complete eradication of adenoma were included in the recurrence analysis with recurrence defined as finding adenomatous histology after 1 negative surveillance endoscopy. Kaplan-Meier estimates were calculated to determine recurrence rates.

RESULTS

Of the 165 patients who underwent EP, 136 patients (mean age 61.9, 51.5% female) had adenomatous histology with a mean lesion size of 21.2 mm. A total of 124 (91.2%) achieved complete eradication with a follow-up of 345.8 person-years. Recurrence occurred in 20 (16.1%) patients at a mean of 3.2 (± 3) years (range 0.5-9.75 years) for a recurrence rate of 5.8 (95% CI 3.6-8.8) per 100 person-years. Nine (45%) recurrences occurred after the 1st 2 years of surveillance. Recurrence rate did not differ by baseline pathology [low-grade dysplasia: 5.2 (95% CI 3.0-9.0), high-grade dysplasia: 6.9 (95% CI 2.3-15.5), adenocarcinoma: 7.7 (95% CI 0.9-25.1)].

CONCLUSION

Recurrence remains a significant concern after EP. Given the timing of recurrence, long surveillance periods may be necessary. Larger multicenter studies are needed, however, to determine appropriate surveillance intervals.

Consensus statements on endoscopic radiofrequency ablation for malignant biliary strictures

Endoscopy-guided endobiliary radiofrequency ablation has emerged as a novel treatment for malignant biliary strictures in recent years. When combined with biliary stenting and systemic chemotherapy, it can effectively postpone local tumor progression, improve patient's quality of life, and prolong their survival, which is mainly indicated for patients with inoperable extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and ampullary cancer. Based on the existing clinical evidence, the Digestive Endoscopology Branch of Chinese Medical Association, the Digestive Endoscopy Professional Committee, Endoscopic Physicians Branch of Chinese Medical Doctor Association, and the National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases (Shanghai) organized relevant experts to discuss the indications, contraindications, technical operation specifications, and prevention and treatment of the complications during endoscopy-guided endobiliary radiofrequency ablation. Consensus statements were established, trying to provide references for standard treatment of malignant biliary tumors in clinical practice.

[Intraductal radiofrequency ablation under endosonography and cholangioscopy for residual adenoma of the major duodenal papilla with intraductal component]

All adenomas of the major duodenal papilla (MDP) require resection regardless of morphological structure due to high risk of malignancy. Currently, intraluminal endoscopic interventions are preferable for these adenomas. MDP neoplasms with intraductal spread (type III and IV) are of particular difficulty for endoscopic techniques. Intraductal radiofrequency ablation provides new opportunities for minimally invasive treatment of patients with MDP adenomas and intraductal component. A 72-year-old patient after previous endoscopic papillectomy for MDP adenoma admitted to the Vishnevsky National Research Medical Center of Surgery due to residual adenomatous growths within the papillectomy zone extending to the common bile duct throughout 13 mm. The patient underwent intraductal RFA under endosonography and cholangioscopy. Despite difficult localization of residual growths extending to the common bile duct, endosonography-guided intraductal RFA provided total destruction of residual tumor that was confirmed by cholangioscopy. Length of treatment was 4 months, relapse-free period - 10 months. Minimally invasive endoscopic technology for residual MDP adenoma provided good clinical results.

[Intraductal radiofrequency ablation for neoplasms of the major duodenal papilla with intraductal spread]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the efficacy of intraductal radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for neoplasms of the major duodenal papilla with intraductal spread.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eleven patients with adenomas of the major duodenal papilla and intraductal spread underwent intraductal RFA between 2022 and 2023. Spread to the common bile duct ranged from 10 to 30 mm, to the main pancreatic duct - from 5 to 11 mm.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in all cases. Complications after intraductal RFA occurred in 4 cases (post-manipulation pancreatitis - 2 cases, repeated intraductal RFA for residual adenomatous growths - 2 cases). Technical success of stenting of the main pancreatic and common bile ducts was achieved in all cases.

CONCLUSION

Intraductal radiofrequency ablation for neoplasms of the major duodenal papilla with intraductal spread ensured complete destruction of intraductal tumor with adequate clinical effect and no need for highly traumatic surgery.

Long-term Outcomes of Endoscopic Intraductal Radiofrequency Ablation for Ampullary Adenoma with Intraductal Extension after Endoscopic Snare Papillectomy

Background/Aims

There are limitations in treating ampullary adenomas with intraductal extension using conventional endoscopic modalities. Endoscopic intraductal radiofrequency ablation (ID-RFA) may be useful for treating intraductal (common bile duct [CBD] and/or pancreatic duct [PD]) extensions of ampullary adenomas, but long-term data are lacking. We thus evaluated the long-term outcomes of endoscopic ID-RFA for managing ampullary adenomas with intraductal extension.

Methods

Prospectively collected endoscopic ID-RFA database at Asan Medical Center was reviewed to identify consecutive patients with ampullary adenoma who underwent ID-RFA for intraductal extension between January 2018 and August 2021. Technical success, short-term and long-term clinical success, and adverse events were evaluated.

Results

A total of 29 patients (14 CBD, 1 PD, and 14 CBD and PD) were analyzed. All patients had undergone endoscopic snare papillectomy prior to ID-RFA. A median of one session of ID-RFA (range, 1 to 3) for residual or relapsed intraductal extension of ampullary adenoma were successfully performed (technical success=100%). Both biliary and pancreatic stenting were routinely performed after ID-RFA to prevent ductal stricture. After a median follow-up of 776 days (interquartile range, 470 to 984 days), the short-term and long-term clinical success rates were 93% and 76%, respectively. Seven patients experienced procedural adverse events and three patients developed ductal strictures.

Conclusions

Endoscopic ID-RFA showed good long-term outcomes in treating residual or relapsed ampullary adenomas with intraductal extension. Repeated ID-RFA may be considered as an option for managing recurrence. Further studies are needed to standardize the procedure.

[Complex endoscopic treatment of a patient with a large adenoma of the major duodenal papilla, choledocholithiasis and stricture of the common bile duct]

Incidence of adenomas of the major duodenal papilla has increased in recent years due to widespread endoscopic screening. These adenomas require resection due to high risk of malignant transformation. Currently, minimally invasive endoscopic interventions are often considered as an alternative to surgical treatment. Combination of major duodenal papilla neoplasms with choledocholithiasis and bile duct strictures are particularly difficult for endoscopic treatment. A 56-year-old patient underwent complex endoscopic treatment for a large adenoma of the major duodenal papilla spreading to duodenal walls and distal segment of the common bile duct combined with choledocholithiasis and stricture of the common bile duct. The patient underwent complex minimally invasive treatment with endoscopic lithoextraction, fragment-by-fragment removal of the neoplasm with intra-ductal ablation of residual adenomatous tissue and subsequent staged biliary stenting for the stricture of the common bile duct, as well as stenting of the main pancreatic duct for prevention of pancreatitis. An integrated approach to the treatment of a patient with a large adenoma of the major duodenal papilla, choledocholithiasis and stricture of the common bile duct provided clinical success without complications and the need for long-term rehabilitation.

[The first Russian experience of radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of adenoma of the major duodenal papilla with intraductal growth in the common bile duct]

Adenoma of the major duodenal papilla can cause bile flow blockade and obstructive jaundice. We present successful endoscopic radiofrequency ablation for adenoma of the major duodenal papilla with intraductal growth in the common bile duct.

Role of Endoscopy in Management of Upper Gastrointestinal Cancers

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) malignancy is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. Upper endoscopy has an established role in diagnosing and staging upper GI cancers, screening for pre-malignant lesions, and providing palliation in cases of advanced malignancy. New advances in endoscopic techniques and technology have improved diagnostic accuracy and increased the therapeutic potential of upper endoscopy. We aim to describe the different types of endoscopic technology used in cancer diagnosis, summarize the current guidelines for endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of malignant and pre-malignant lesions, and explore new potential roles for endoscopy in cancer therapy.

The interventional direct peroral cholangioscopy toolbox for endoscopic snare resection of a high-grade biliary intraductal neoplasia

Video 1Demonstration of techniques for performing direct peroral cholangioscopy.

The impact of the age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index as a prognostic factor for endoscopic papillectomy in ampullary tumors

BACKGROUND

The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) have been useful for predicting the prognosis based on nutritional condition and comorbidities in surgery and endoscopic mucosal dissection. The age-adjusted CCI (ACCI) has also been reported to be useful in surgery, but it has not been applied to endoscopic treatment. We therefore clarified the prognostic factors associated with ampullary tumors treated with endoscopic papillectomy (EP).

METHODS

From January 2003 to December 2020, 236 patients who underwent EP for sporadic ampullary tumors at Nagoya University Hospital were included in this study. The 5-year survival and ability to predict the prognosis were evaluated in terms of the sex, PNI, ACCI, final pathological diagnosis, and intraductal extension.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up period of 1558 days, 17 patients died. No patient died of the primary disease. The 5-year survival rate was 91.1%. In a univariate analysis, only a high ACCI (≥ 5) was extracted as a significant prognostic factor (Odds ratio, 12.2; 95% confidence interval, 3.81-39.3; p < 0.001). The 5-year survival rates for a low ACCI (≤ 4) and high ACCI were 96.6% and 73.5%, respectively (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A high ACCI is an important prognostic factor associated with the 5-year survival and a risk of death from other illness. Ampullary tumors suitable for EP are less likely to be a prognostic factor, and treatment-free follow-up may be acceptable in patients with a high ACCI.

Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation may improve overall survival in patients with inoperable ampullary carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Patients with advanced ampullary carcinoma (AC) who are unsuitable for surgery are most likely to have poor outcomes. The role of endoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in this population has not been fully defined. We aimed to assess the short- and long-term outcomes of RFA in a large cohort of AC patients.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, data of consecutive patients with pathologically proven AC who underwent successful endobiliary RFA and/or stent placement were collected. All patients did not undergo surgical resection. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). The secondary outcomes included clinical success and adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 85 patients, 50 in the RFA plus stenting group and 35 in the stenting alone group, were identified. The median OS was significantly longer in the RFA group than in the stenting alone group (16.9 vs. 9.8 months, P < 0.001). In multivariable Cox analysis, RFA (hazards ratio 0.408; 95% confidence interval 0.235-0.706; P = 0.001) was the only independent OS predictor. Eight patients with stage II tumors, exclusively from the RFA group, survived for more than 3 years. Clinical success was comparable between the two groups (96% vs. 100%, P = 0.231). Early adverse events between the two groups were similar (10% vs. 2.9%, P = 0.206); however, late biliary/pancreatic stenoses occurred in three RFA patients who were successfully managed with endoscopic interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic RFA appears to prolong patients' survival with acceptable safety; it may therefore be a feasible treatment option for patients with inoperable ampullary cancers.

Updated evidence on the clinical impact of endoscopic radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of malignant biliary obstruction

Endoscopic biliary radiofrequency ablation (RFA) was recently developed as a novel adjunctive procedure and a promising therapeutic option in patients with malignant biliary obstruction (MBO). RFA can achieve local tumor control, resulting in improved biliary stent patency and a potential survival benefit. However, the efficacy of biliary RFA remains controversial, and previous studies have shown conflicting results. At present, extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is considered the condition most effectively treated by biliary RFA, but there is limited research even on this point. Further, limitations of RFA associated with the devices used during the procedure are an important subject of discussion. In addition to further well-designed clinical trials, development of innovative devices is warranted to investigate and conclusively establish the usefulness of biliary RFA. In this review we summarize the updated evidence regarding the use of endoscopic biliary RFA for MBO and discuss issues that should be addressed in future studies.

Another gastrointestinal lesion amendable for ablation

A 79-year-old patient, with a history of redoendoscopic ampullectomy (low grade dysplasia), was referred to our hospital with cholestatic liver function abnormalities and dilation of the common bile duct. Diagnostic endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) was performed (Figure 1, left), as well as upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (Figure 1, right). What is the final diagnosis and which treatment would you propose?

Ablative therapies of the biliary tree

Cholangiocarcinoma, a malignancy of the epithelial cells in the intrahepatic or extrahepatic biliary tree, is often diagnosed at later stages. Median survival duration ranges from 3 to 9 months with a less than ten percent 5-year survival rate. Thus, often treatment strategies are aimed more towards palliation instead of cure. With the majority of patients presenting with unresectable disease at the time of diagnosis, surgical intervention is not feasible, making less invasive endoscopic therapies more suitable. Initially, biliary stents were utilized for biliary decompression to mitigate cholestatic symptoms and prevent cholangitis; however, this strategy did not prove to provide significant survival benefit. Therefore, efforts to treat the tumor burden itself in addition to maintaining biliary patency became a focus of innovation and research in the endoscopic field. This study has led to the advent of therapies such as photodynamic therapy, radiofrequency ablation, and intraluminal brachytherapy. These options combined with biliary stenting have shown to not only offer the benefit of biliary decompression, but also to potentially improve stent patency and survival. Further, there is an anti-tumor effect of each of these modalities, portending an additional benefit in this subset of patients. Despite numerous retrospective and prospective studies assessing these ablative therapies, there is still a paucity of appropriately powered randomized controlled trials, and further research has yet to be done in the field. This review details the current literature entailing endobiliary ablative strategies.

[Recent Updates on Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiography-guided Intraductal Radiofrequency Ablation for Malignant Biliary Stricture]

Malignant biliary strictures are caused by pancreatobiliary cancer and other metastatic malignancies. Most of them are unresectable at diagnosis with a dismal prognosis. Various new ablation methods have been introduced. Of them, ERCP-guided intraductal radiofrequency ablation (ID-RFA) appears to be the most promising minimally invasive endoscopic treatment by delivering a high-frequency alternating current to the target tissue, leading to coagulative necrosis. Thus far, many studies have provided evidence that ERCP-guided ID-RFA is a safe, feasible, and effective treatment modality for stent patency and overall survival. Compared to other ablation treatments, ERCP-guided ID-RFA has several advantages, including ease of delivery, controlled application of thermal energy, low cost, and fewer systemic side effects with an acceptable safety profile. Therefore, ERCP-guided ID-RFA can be considered an adjunctive treatment for the palliation of unresectable malignant biliary strictures. On the other hand, the decision of local ablation treatment should be individualized by multidisciplinary team support due to the lack of comparative studies.

Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation for malignant biliary obstruction

Cholangiocarcinoma and pancreatic cancer are the most common causes of malignant biliary obstruction. The majority of patients are diagnosed at a late stage when surgical resection is rarely possible. In these cases, palliative chemotherapy and radiotherapy provide only limited benefit and are associated with poor survival. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure for locoregional control of tumours, whereby a high-frequency alternating current turned into thermal energy causes coagulative necrosis of the tissue surrounding the catheter. The subsequent release of debris and tumour antigens by necrotic cells can stimulate local and systemic immunity. The development of endoluminal RFA catheters has led to the emergence of endoscopically delivered RFA, a treatment mainly used for malignant biliary strictures to prolong survival and/or stent patency. Other indications include recanalisation of occluded biliary stents and treatment of intraductal ampullary adenoma or benign biliary strictures. This article presents a comprehensive review of endobiliary RFA, mainly focusing on its use in patients with malignant biliary obstruction. The available data suggest that biliary RFA may be a promising modality, having positive impacts on survival and stent patency and boasting a reasonable safety profile. However, further studies with better characterised and stratified patient populations are needed before the method becomes accepted within routine clinical practice.

Endoscopic papillectomy for ampullary adenoma and early adenocarcinoma: Analysis of factors related to treatment outcome and long-term prognosis

OBJECTIVES

There are few reports on the long-term prognosis of papillary tumors after endoscopic papillectomy. Here, we report a retrospective study of the therapeutic effects, long-term prognosis, and affecting factors.

METHODS

The inclusion criteria were papillary adenoma with/without an adenocarcinoma component on biopsy results and ≤10 mm intraductal extension, and the exclusion criteria were moderate to poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma on biopsy results. If no residual lesion was confirmed ≥6 months after the last endoscopic treatment, remission was defined. Subsequently, follow-up endoscopy was scheduled once a year. Surgery was required in the case of adenocarcinoma recurrence or intraductal lesions >10 mm. The rates of adverse events, remission, recurrence, and need for surgery were examined. The affecting factors were calculated.

RESULTS

There were a total of 253 subjects, including 65 with adenocarcinoma. Pancreatitis (7.5%), bleeding (9.1%) and perforation (2.8%) were observed as adverse events. Among 221 subjects with ≥6 months of follow-up, 212 (95.9%) were in remission. The cumulative recurrence rate using the Kaplan-Meier analysis at 5 years was 16.9% (22 cases), with the need for surgery in 5.9% (5 cases). Intraductal extension on preoperative diagnosis was the only significant risk factor for both recurrence (P < 0.001) and the need for surgery (P = 0.005). The presence of adenocarcinoma had no significant effect.

CONCLUSION

Although remission was achieved in more than 95% of our patients, we observed a high rate of recurrence at the long-term follow-up, which was significantly associated with intraductal extension but not with the presence of adenocarcinoma.

Radiofrequency ablation for intraductal extension of ampullary adenomatous lesions: proposal for a standardized protocol

Background and study aims  Intraductal extension of ampullary adenoma represents a challenging endoscopic issue. Intraductal radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been recently suggested, but evidence and standardization of this technique are still lacking. This study aimed to provide a long-term evaluation of clinical efficacy and safety of intraductal RFA ablation with a standardized algorithm of treatment. Patients and methods  Data were prospectively collected from consecutive patients with intraductal extension of adenomatous ampullary lesions from January 2016 to November 2018. Endpoints of the study were clinical success evaluated on histology results at the last follow-up, technical success, and adverse events assessment. Results  Nine patients with intraductal (biliary ± pancreatic) extension of ampullary adenomas were treated with RFA during the study period. Histology on the papillectomy specimen confirmed intraductal involvement with low-grade dysplasia (LGD) in five cases (56 %), high-grade dysplasia (HGD) in three (33 %), and HGD with intramucosal adenocarcinoma in one patient (11 %). Additional argon plasma coagulation to ablate the adenoma on the duodenal mucosa was applied in five patients (56 %). Technical success was 100 %. One patient (11 %) with failed pancreatic stenting, developing acute pancreatitis after RFA, recovered with medical therapy. After a median follow-up of 21 months (IQR 20-31), six patients (67 %) achieved clinical success being free of recurrence, whereas one was diagnosed with persistence of adenocarcinoma, one with recurrent HGD, and one with recurrent LGD. Conclusions  In our experience, intraductal RFA achieved acceptable results after a 2-year follow-up. Further studies are required to confirm our results and to select those patients most likely to respond.

Endoscopic management of ampullary tumors: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline

1: ESGE recommends against diagnostic/therapeutic papillectomy when adenoma is not proven.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence. 2: ESGE recommends endoscopic ultrasound and abdominal magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) for staging of ampullary tumors.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence. 3: ESGE recommends endoscopic papillectomy in patients with ampullary adenoma without intraductal extension, because of good results regarding outcome (technical and clinical success, morbidity, and recurrence).Strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence. 4: ESGE recommends en bloc resection of ampullary adenomas up to 20-30 mm in diameter to achieve R0 resection, for optimizing the complete resection rate, providing optimal histopathology, and reduction of the recurrence rate after endoscopic papillectomy.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence. 5: ESGE suggests considering surgical treatment of ampullary adenomas when endoscopic resection is not feasible for technical reasons (e. g. diverticulum, size > 4 cm), and in the case of intraductal involvement (of > 20 mm). Surveillance thereafter is still mandatory.Weak recommendation, low quality evidence. 6: ESGE recommends direct snare resection without submucosal injection for endoscopic papillectomy.Strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence. 7: ESGE recommends prophylactic pancreatic duct stenting to reduce the risk of pancreatitis after endoscopic papillectomy.Strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence. 8: ESGE recommends long-term monitoring of patients after endoscopic papillectomy or surgical ampullectomy, based on duodenoscopy with biopsies of the scar and of any abnormal area, within the first 3 months, at 6 and 12 months, and thereafter yearly for at least 5 years.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence.

The Safety of Radiofrequency Ablation Using a Novel Temperature-Controlled Probe for the Treatment of Residual Intraductal Lesions after Endoscopic Papillectomy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Treatment of residual intraductal lesions after endoscopic papillectomy for ampullary adenomas is relatively difficult. Few studies have been conducted using intraductal radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the treatment of such lesions, and no study has aimed to reduce the side effects of excessive heat caused by RFA. Recently, a temperature-controlled RFA probe was developed to avoid excessive heat. This study aimed to investigate the safety of this new RFA probe in the treatment of intraductal lesions of ampullary adenoma.

METHODS

Patients who received RFA for residual intraductal lesions after endoscopic papillectomy between November 2017 and June 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. A novel temperature- controlled probe (ELRA) was used for intraductal RFA, and clinical data including adverse events were collected.

RESULTS

Ten patients were included in this study. Intraductal adenomas showed low-grade dysplasia in eight patients and high-grade dysplasia in two patients. The median diameter of intraductal adenomas was 9 mm (range, 5 to 10 mm) in the common bile duct and 5 mm (range, 4 to 11 mm) in the pancreatic duct. Adverse events occurred in three patients (30.0%), of which two were mild pancreatitis and one was asymptomatic biliary stricture. Over a median follow-up period of 253 days, only one patient underwent additional surgery, as the remainder showed no adenomatous lesions on follow-up biopsies.

CONCLUSIONS

The new temperature-controlled RFA probe can be used with acceptable safety for the treatment of residual intraductal lesions after endoscopic papillectomy. Further evaluation through future prospective studies is needed.

Role of Intraductal RFA: A Novel Tool in the Palliative Care of Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Patients with irresectable perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC) have a limited prognosis with median survival times still less than 1 year. In addition to the current standard first-line systemic chemotherapy (gemcitabine and a platinum derivate), endoscopic treatment aims to ensure adequate drainage of the biliary system by placing biliary plastic or metal stents. Local ablative procedures like intraluminal biliary brachytherapy (ILBT) or photodynamic therapy (PDT) are used to improve local tumor control and to optimize the stent patency.

SUMMARY

Intraductal radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is another promising tool in the therapeutic armamentarium for the endoscopic management and tumor ablation of extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (eCCA). By applying thermal energy to the tissue through high-frequency alternating current, RFA induces coagulative necrosis and causes local destruction of the tumor. It is established as a first line percutaneous treatment of solid liver tumors, and since 2011 an endoscopic catheter is available that allows intraductal RFA in the biliary or pancreatic ducts. While the first pilot studies primarily evaluated this new method in patients with distal eCCA, there is now evidence accumulating also for PHC. Two retrospective and two prospective studies demonstrated a significantly improved overall survival and a longer stent patency with intraductal RFA, which overall had a favorable safety profile and was not associated with a significant increase in adverse events. However, prospective studies comparing the efficacy and safety of intraductal RFA, PDT, and/or ILBT are lacking.

KEY MESSAGES

Recent studies suggest that intraductal RFA is an effective and well-tolerated additional treatment option with regard to stent patency but also overall survival. Since RFA has fewer systemic side effects and requires less logistical effort when compared to ILBT and PDT, intraductal RFA should be considered as another safe and feasible adjuvant method for the palliative care of patients with advanced PHC. Since comparative studies are lacking, the choice of the local ablative method remains in each case an individual decision.

Cold Snare Papillectomy for Re-redo Endoscopic Resection of a Defiant Adenoma Recurrence with a Unique Growth Pattern

Endoscopic papillectomy has become the mainstay treatment in early papillary neoplasia. However, local recurrence remains the Achilles heel of the procedure due to the complex anatomy and limited ductal involvement unappreciated on endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and/or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). While re-do papillectomy is, in general, technically feasible and widely accepted to treat recurrent adenoma, re-redo procedures to this end have rarely been reported. Likewise, utilization of cold snare technology is rarely considered in papillectomy and has, in fact, only once been reported in the literature before. We present a unique clinical case with a highly atypical growth pattern with a bonnet-like pedunculated lesion with a small insertion point just at the pancreatic duct orifice treated by re-redo cold snare papillectomy.

How to cite this article: Zimmer V, Emrich K. Cold Snare Papillectomy for Re-redo Endoscopic Resection of a Defiant Adenoma Recurrence with a Unique Growth Pattern. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2021;11(1):43–44.

Management of Remnant or Recurrent Lesions after Endoscopic Papillectomy

Endoscopic papillectomy (EP) for ampullary adenomas achieves cure rates ranging from 76% to 90%, and recurrence rates are as high as 33%. If remnant or recurrent lesions after prior EP are endoscopically visible and are not suspected of intraductal extension into the biliary or pancreatic duct, repeated snaring and cutting can be performed until all visible lesions are completely resected. However, endoscopic ablative therapies, particularly argon plasma coagulation, can be attempted for tiny or uncertain remnant and recurrent lesions. In addition, intraductal radiofrequency ablation has recently been attempted for residual intraductal lesions after EP at several institutions. Although still under investigation, it has shown some promise. It might be offered as an alternative to surgery, particularly in patients who are unfit for surgery or those who refuse to undergo surgery.

Best techniques for endoscopic ampullectomy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Endoscopic ampullectomy has proven its safety and efficacy in multiple studies, making it the favorable option for the management of endoscopic ampullectomy. In this review, we plan to review the basic steps every endoscopist should be familiar with before undertaking endoscopic ampullectomy.

RECENT FINDINGS

In this review, we plan to discuss the indications, preresection evaluation process including endoscopic ultrasound, endoscopic ampullectomy techniques with side-viewing endoscope and endoscopist experience/comfort with the management of the endoscopic ampullectomy complications.

SUMMARY

Things of utmost interest include reviewing all the ampullary biopsy specimens by an expert gastrointestinal pathologist, careful preresection staging, en bloc resection, familiarity with tools and techniques of endoscopic ampullectomy, postresection adverse events & management and postprocedure surveillance.

Insights and updates on endoscopic papillectomy

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic papillectomy (EP) has been established as a useful endoscopic therapy by the efforts of many pancreatobiliary endoscopists and is presently accepted as a reliable alternative therapy to surgery in patients with ampullary adenoma. Moreover, there have been numerous advancements in EP techniques in recent years. Various approaches and attempts toward expanding the indications of endoscopic resection have been reported. Furthermore, the management and prevention of adverse events (AEs) and endoscopic treatment for remnant or recurrent lesions have also been reported. In the present review, we focus on recent advancements in the EP technique, as well as speculate on the future issues of EP.

AREA COVERED

This review of EP encompasses the indications, preoperative assessments, endoscopic techniques, outcomes, and AEs of EP, post-EP surveillance techniques, and treatments for remnant or recurrence lesions.

EXPERT OPINION

The ultimate goal of EP is the complete resection of ampullary tumors, regardless of whether they are adenomatous or carcinomatous lesions, without causing any AEs. Therefore, the most important issue is preoperative evaluation, that is, the accurate diagnosis of lesions contraindicated for EP. In addition, further research on the prevention of AEs is also necessary towards establishing EP as a safe endoscopic procedure.

Initial Experience of ERCP-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation as the Primary Therapy for Inoperable Ampullary Carcinomas

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic ablation of duodenal ampullary malignancy has not been fully assessed.

AIMS

The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatograpy (ERCP)-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for inoperable ampullary cancer.

METHODS

Patients with inoperable ampullary cancer underwent ERCP-guided RFA from January 2012 to August 2017. RF energy (7-10 W) was delivered using bipolar RFA electrodes under endoscopic guidance. RFAs were repeated every 1-3 months until visible tumor was eliminated. All patients were followed up till June 2018, during which any biliary event was noted and managed endoscopically.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients underwent a median of two RFA sessions (range 1-6) at a median interval of 56 (range 35-90) days. Among 18 (78.3%) patients who received endoscopic re-evaluations, nine patients showed no remaining lesion and nine showed more than 50% tumor size reduction. During a median follow-up duration of 517 days (range 60-1836 days), eight (34.8%) patients required endoscopic re-interventions. The re-intervention rate at 6 months after RFA was 36.8%. Twelve patients were alive, among whom six required no biliary stenting. The accumulative mean survival was 1081 (95% CI 757.8-1404.0) days. RFA-related adverse events occurred in four cases (7.7%) including mild pancreatitis (1), bleeding (1), and late distal biliary stenosis (2).

CONCLUSION

This pilot study shows that ERCP-guided RFA is safe to use and able to reduce tumor volume and re-interventions in patients with inoperable ampullary cancer.

Long-Term Outcomes of Endoscopic Papillectomy for Ampullary Adenomas

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic papillectomy is a safe and effective treatment for ampullary adenomas and has mostly replaced surgical local resection. Recent data have discussed the role of endoscopic removal of laterally spreading adenomas associated with ampullary adenomas. We evaluated our long-term results of endoscopic papillectomy for ampullary adenomas.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent endoscopic papillectomy of biopsy-proven adenomas at our tertiary center between 1994 and 2017. Clinical success was defined as complete excision of an adenoma with no evidence of recurrence during follow-up, no evidence of cancer, and without the need for surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 161 patients (73M/88F) with a mean age of 61 (range 19-93) were included. Mean adenoma size was 20 mm (range 5-70). In total, 114/161 patients continued endoscopic surveillance for a minimum of 6 months with a median follow-up of 30 months (range 6-283). Recurrent adenomas were diagnosed in 8 patients (7%) after a median of 36 months (range 12-138). Clinical success was 83%; 35 laterally spreading adenomas were treated, which were larger than adenomas confined to the papilla (mean size 38 mm vs 15 mm, P < 0.05) and required more piecemeal resections (77% vs 15%, P < 0.05). However, no difference was found in recurrence rates between the two groups (8% vs 4%, P = 0.26); 24/161 (15%) of patients had adverse events including bleeding (6%) and pancreatitis (7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic papillectomy is a safe and effective treatment for ampullary adenomas, including laterally spreading ones. Long-term surveillance demonstrates low recurrence rates at expert centers.

Endoscopic radiofrequency biliary ablation treatment: A comprehensive review

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) functions by delivering thermal energy within tissue, the result of a high-frequency alternating current released from an active electrode, leading to coagulative necrosis and cellular death. Recently, a biliary catheter working on a guidewire has been developed and a number of studies have so far been carried out. The present article provides a comprehensive review of the literature on the results of the use of RFA for the clinical management of patients with unresectable malignant biliary strictures, benign biliary strictures, and residual adenomatous tissue in the bile duct after endoscopic papillectomy. Available data show that biliary RFA treatment is a promising adjuvant therapy in patients with unresectable malignant biliary obstruction. The procedure is safe, well tolerated and improves stent patency and survival, even though more studies are warranted. In patients with residual endobiliary adenomatous tissue after endoscopic papillectomy, a significant rate of neoplasia eradication after a single RFA session has been reported, thus favoring this treatment over surgical intervention. In these patients, as well as in those with benign biliary strictures, dedicated probes with a short electrode able to focus the RF current on the short stenosis are needed to expand RFA treatment for these indications.

Endoscopic Palliation for Biliary and Pancreatic Malignancies: Recent Advances

Malignancies of the pancreatobiliary system are usually unresectable at the time of diagnosis. As a consequence, a majority of these cases are candidates for palliative care. With advances in chemotherapeutic agents and multidisciplinary care, the survival rate in pancreatobiliary malignancies has improved. Therefore, there is a need to provide an effective and long-lasting palliative care for these patients. Endoscopic palliation is preferred to surgery as the former is associated with equal efficacy and reduced morbidity. The main role of endoscopic palliation in the vast majority of pancreatobiliary malignancies includes biliary and enteral stenting for malignant obstructive jaundice and gastric outlet obstruction, respectively. Recent advances in endoscopic palliation appear promising in imparting long-lasting relief of symptoms. Use of radiofrequency ablation and photodynamic therapy in malignant biliary obstruction has been shown to improve the survival rates as well as the patency of biliary stents. The emergence of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) as a therapeutic tool has enhanced the capability of minimally invasive palliation in pancreatobiliary cancers. EUS is a valuable alternative to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for the palliation of obstructive jaundice. More recently, EUS is emerging as an effective primary modality for biliary and gastric bypass.

Combined excision and ablation of ampullary tumors with biliary or pancreatic intraductal extension is effective even in malignant neoplasms

BACKGROUND

The feasibility and outcome of endoscopic resection in ampullary tumors with intraductal growth remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety, feasibility and outcomes of these patients treated by thermal ablation.

METHODS

Retrospective observational study. All consecutive patients who underwent an endoscopic snare papillectomy with a 6-month minimum follow-up were included. Ablation was performed with cystotomes and soft/forced coagulation. Successful endoscopic treatment was defined as no adenomatous residual tissue or recurrence observed at follow-up.

RESULTS

Of 86 patients presenting with an ampullary tumor, 73 (58 ± 14 years old, 49% men, 34% familial adenomatous polyposis) (median tumor size: 20 mm, range: 8-80) were included. En bloc and curative resection rates were achieved in 46.6% and 83.6%, respectively.Intraductal ingrowth was seen in 18 (24.7%) patients and histologically confirmed in 12 (16.4%). Intraductal ablation achieved a 100% success rate, with a 20-month median follow-up. Most of these patients had malignant forms (n = 8, 66.7%), with a higher adenocarcinoma rate (33.3% versus 3.3%, p = 0.001) compared to extraductal tumors.Overall, there was a 20.5% complication rate with no significant differences between both groups (p = 0.676).

CONCLUSIONS

Intraductal ablation achieves a high therapeutic success rate in ampullary tumors with ≤20 mm ductal extension, even in malignant forms or biliary and pancreatic involvement. The technique is feasible, cheap and safe and may avoid major surgery.

Endoscopic Management of Biliary Disorders: Diagnosis and Therapy

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has evolved from a diagnostic and therapeutic tool to a predominantly therapeutic tool. There is a limited role for diagnostic ERCP with widespread availability of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Since its introduction, EUS evolved from a diagnostic imaging modality to one with combined diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. Currently, ERCP remains the standard of care for biliary decompression. In future, it is possible that EUS guided transmural biliary drainage may replace ERCP for certain indications. Given the risk of adverse events related with these more invasive endoscopic procedures, a multidisciplinary team-based approach is recommended.

Radiofrequency and malignant biliary strictures: An update

Malignant biliary strictures are usually linked to different types of tumors, mainly cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinomas. Palliative measures are usually adopted in patients with nonresectable or borderline resectable biliary disease. Stent placement is a well-known and established treatment in patients with unresectable malignancy. Intraductal radiofrequency ablation (RFA) represents a procedure that involves the use of a biliary catheter device, via an endoscopic approach. Indications for biliary RFA described in literature are: Palliative treatment of malignant biliary strictures, avoiding stent occlusion, ablating ingrowth of blocked metal stents, prolonging stent patency, ablating residual adenomatous tissue after endoscopic ampullectomy. In this mini-review we addressed focus on technical success defined as deployment of the RF catheter, virtually succeeded in all patients included in the studies. About efficacy, three main outcome measures have been contemplated: Biliary decompression and stent patency, survival. Existing studies suggest a beneficial effect on survival and stent patency with RFA, but current impression is limited because most of studies have been performed using a retrospective design, on diminutive and dissimilar cohorts of patients.

Efficacy and safety of endobiliary radiofrequency ablation for the eradication of residual neoplasia after endoscopic papillectomy: a multicenter prospective study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endobiliary dysplasia may persist after endoscopic papillectomy. Intraductal radiofrequency ablation (ID-RFA) is a potential alternative to complementary surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ID-RFA for the treatment of adenomatous intraductal residue after endoscopic papillectomy.

METHODS

A prospective open-label multicenter study included patients with histologically proven endobiliary adenoma remnant (ductal extent <20 mm) after endoscopic papillectomy for ampullary tumor. RFA (effect 8, power 10 W, 30 seconds) was performed during ERCP. Biliary ± pancreatic stent was placed at the end of the procedure. Endpoints were (1) the rate of residual neoplasia (ie, low-grade dysplasia [LGD], high-grade dysplasia [HGD], or invasive carcinoma) at 6 and 12 months, (2) rate of surgery, and (3) adverse events.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (67 ± 11 years of age, 12 men) were included. The endobiliary adenoma was in LGD in 15 patients and HGD in 5 patients. All underwent 1 successful ID-RFA session with biliary stent placement and recovered uneventfully. Five (25%) received a pancreatic stent. The rates of residual neoplasia were 15% and 30% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Only 2 patients (10%) were referred for surgery. Eight patients (40%) experienced at least 1 adverse event between ID-RFA and 12 months of follow-up. No major adverse event occurred. HGD at inclusion was associated with higher dysplasia recurrence at 12 months (P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

ID-RFA of residual endobiliary dysplasia after endoscopic papillectomy can be offered as an alternative to surgery, with a 70% chance of dysplasia eradication at 12 months after a single session and a good safety profile. Patient follow-up remains warranted after ID-RFA. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT02825524.).

Endoscopic resection of advanced ampullary adenomas: a single-center 14-year retrospective cohort study

Background

Endoscopic ampullectomy has been recognized as a safe and reliable means to resect selective tumors of the ampulla of Vater and is associated with lower morbidity and mortality rates compared to surgical resection. Success rates range from 42 to 92%, with recurrences reported in up to 33%. Studies on endoscopic resection of advanced lesions such as those with intraductal extension of adenoma (IEA) and lateral spreading adenomas (LSA) are limited. We aimed to evaluate the technical success, complications, and recurrence of endoscopic resection of ampullary adenomas, including advanced lesions.

Methods

All patients referred to the Erasmus Medical Center for endoscopic resection of an ampullary lesion were retrospectively identified between 2002 and 2016. Endoscopic success was defined as complete excision of the adenoma, irrespective of the number of attempts, in the absence of recurrence.

Results

We included 87 patients with a median age of 65 years. Of these, 56 patients (64%) had an adenoma confined to the ampulla (ACA), 20 patients (23%) had an LSA, and 11 patients (13%) were treated for an IEA. The median lesion sizes were 24.6 mm, 41.4 mm, and 16.3 mm, respectively (P < 0.001). Complications occurred in 22 patients (25.3%), of which hemorrhage was most prevalent (12.6%), followed by perforation (8.1%). Complications were equally divided (P = 0.874). The median follow-up duration was 21.1 months (12–45.9) for ACA, 14.7 months (4.2–34.5) for LSA, and 5.8 months (3.7–22.0) for IEA (P = 0.051). Endoscopic resection was curative in 87.5% of patients with an ACA, 85% in patients with an LSA, and in only one patient with an IEA (P < 0.001). Recurrence occurred in 10 patients (11.5%) (P = 0.733).

Conclusion

Endoscopic ampullectomy is safe and highly successful in selected patients with an adenoma with or without lateral spreading. Outcomes of endoscopic treatment adenomas with an intraductal extension are less favorable and in these cases surgery should be considered.

New Indications for Endoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a well-established treatment for several benign, premalignant, and malignant disorders. Although the role of RFA has been clearly defined, new indications for luminal and extraluminal applications of endoscopic RFA-directed therapies have emerged. RFA has recently produced promising results in patients with a variety of gastrointestinal and hepatopancreatobiliary pathologies. For example, endoscopic RFA has been used to treat patients with gastric antral vascular ectasia, chronic radiation proctitis, malignant biliary strictures, and ampullary adenomas with intraductal extension. Furthermore, endoscopic ultrasound-guided RFA appears to be an effective, minimally invasive treatment for ablation of solid and cystic lesions-particularly in the pancreas. We review the newer indications for RFA and discuss potential limitations of endoscopic RFA.