Surgical and endoscopic management options for patients with GERD based on proton pump inhibitor symptom response: recommendations from an expert U.S. panel

Russian Consensus: Standardization of Indications for Surgical Treatment of GERD

Aim: to present the results of an Expert Consensus on standardization of indications for surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Materials and methods. The issues of standardization of indications for surgical treatment of GERD were discussed by 39 experts – leading gastroenterologists and surgeons from 7 cities of Russia, representing 17 institutions. The list of questions for discussion was formed by the initiative group and sent to the experts. The experts reviewed recent literature, including existing clinical guidelines and consensuses, assessed the evidence base and suggested statements for voting based on the analysis of relevant provisions of foreign consensuses, high-level scientific publications, which set out information obtained in the course of studies that meet the criteria of evidence-based medicine, positions on this issue in the Russian Federation, and suggested statements for voting. Delphi method was used to reach the consensus.Results. GERD is the most common benign esophageal disorder. Surgery is considered one of the treatment methods for GERD. In real clinical practice, selection of patients who may benefit from surgery is challenging. The results of surgical and conservative treatment of GERD are comparable. Surgical treatment should be performed in a specialized hospital only after a joint examination with a gastroenterologist confirming the diagnosis of GERD. An appropriate volume of preoperative diagnostic workup, matters related to surgical interventions in case of incomplete response to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and when extraesophageal manifestations of GERD are present were discussed. The consensus reviews the indications, contraindications and possible results of antireflux operations in patients with GERD. The value of endoscopy, esophageal manometry, pH monitoring/pH-impedance monitoring and X-ray polypositional examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract as a preoperative examination of the patient is analysed. Conclusions. The experts reached the consensus on 20 statements on standardization of indications for surgical treatment of GERD.

Development of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy standards for training in advanced endoscopy within dedicated advanced endoscopy fellowship programs

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Training in interventional endoscopy is offered by nonaccredited advanced endoscopy fellowship programs (AEFPs). The number of these programs has increased dramatically with a concurrent increase in the breadth and complexity of interventional endoscopy procedures. Accreditation is governed by competency-based education, yet what constitutes a "high-quality" nonaccredited AEFP has not been defined. Using an evidence-based consensus process, we aimed to establish standards for AEFPs.

METHODS

The RAND UCLA appropriateness method, a well-described modified Delphi process to develop quality indicators, was used. A task force established by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy drafted potential quality indicators (structure, process, and outcome) in 6 categories: activity preceding training; structure of AEFPs; training in ERCP, EUS, and EMR; and luminal stent placement. Three rounds of iterative feedback from 20 experts were conducted. Round 0 involved discussion of project details. In round 1, experts independently ranked proposed quality indicators on a 9-point interval scale ranging from highly inappropriate (1) to highly appropriate (9). Next, proposed quality indicators were discussed and reworded in a group meeting followed by round 2, in which experts independently reranked proposed quality indicators and provided benchmarks (when applicable). The median score for each quality indicator was calculated. Mean absolute deviation from the median was calculated, and appropriateness of potential quality indicators was assessed using the BIOMED concerted action on appropriateness definition, P value method, and interpercentile range adjusted for symmetry definition. A quality indicator was deemed appropriate if the median score was ≥7 and met criteria for appropriateness using all 3 defined statistical methods.

RESULTS

Of 89 proposed quality indicators, 37 statements met criteria as appropriate for a quality indicator (activity preceding training, 2; structure of AEFPs, 10; training in ERCP, 7; training in EUS, 8; training in EMR, 7; luminal stent placement, 3). Minimum thresholds were defined for 19 relevant quality indicators for number of trainers, procedures during fellowship, and procedures before assessment of competence. Among the final appropriate quality indicators were that all trainees should undergo qualitative and quantitative competence assessments using validated tools at least quarterly with documented feedback throughout the training period and that trainees should track outcomes and relevant quality metrics for specific procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

This consensus process using validated methodology established standards for an AEFP in an effort to ensure adequate training in the most commonly taught interventional endoscopic procedures (ERCP, EUS, EMR, and luminal stent placement) during fellowship. An important component of an AEFP is the use of competency-based assessments that are compliant with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education's Next Accreditation System, with the goal of ensuring that trainees achieve specific milestones in their progression to achieving cognitive and technical competency.

The Role of High-Resolution Manometry Before and Following Antireflux Surgery: The Padova Consensus

BACKGROUND

In the last 2 decades the development of high-resolution manometry (HRM) has changed and revolutionized the diagnostic assessment of patients complain foregut symptoms. The role of HRM before and after antireflux procedure remains unclear, especially in surgical practice, where a clear understanding of esophageal physiology and hiatus anatomy is essential for optimal outcome of antireflux surgery (ARS). Surgeons and gastroenterologists (GIs) agree that assessing patients following antireflux procedures can be challenging. Although endoscopy and barium-swallow can reveal anatomic abnormalities, physiological information on HRM allowing insight into the cause of eventually recurrent symptoms could be key to clinical decision-making.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary international working group (14 surgeons and 15 GIs) collaborated to develop consensus on the role of HRM pre-ARS and post-ARS, and to develop a postoperative classification to interpret HRM findings. The method utilized was detailed literature review to develop statements, and the RAND/University of California, Los Angeles Appropriateness Methodology (RAM) to assess agreement with the statements. Only statements with an approval rate >80% or a final ranking with a median score of 7 were accepted in the consensus. The working groups evaluated the role of HRM before ARS and the role of HRM following ARS.

CONCLUSIONS

This international initiative developed by surgeons and GIs together, summarizes the state of our knowledge of the use of HRM pre-ARS and post-ARS. The Padova Classification was developed to facilitate the interpretation of HRM studies of patients underwent ARS.

A rapid-floating natural polysaccharide gel-raft with double-effect for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a prevalent gastrointestinal condition characterized by regurgitating stomach contents into the esophagus, causing mucosal damage or erosion. Clinical physical protection treatment mainly relies on the use of floating rafts. Bletilla striata (BS) is widely regarded as the first-choice drug for treating digestive tract injuries in Chinese Medicine. The rapid-floating gel-raft (B-R) was prepared via a one-step swelling method using natural BS polysaccharide and glyceryl monooleate. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) were loaded to further prepare P/B-R according to clinical experience. Possessing hydrophobic dense, stratified porous structure and stable rheological properties, an outperforming floating performance of P/B-R was proven compared with Gaviscon® (alginate-antacid formulation) in vitro. In vivo imaging results showed that P/B-R can retain and adhere to the gastric mucosa of rats for up to 90 min, protecting and repairing the mucosa. Besides physical protection in situ, the systemic effects of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions for treating GERD were achieved through the intestinal release of PNS. Acid-labile PNS was protected by P/B-R against gastric acid, attaining the desired release and permeability. A significantly effective mucosa injury protective effect of P/B-R was found in ethanol-induced gastric damage model on rats. Moreover, P/B-R exhibits excellent biosafety at the cellular level.

Good clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. An expert review from the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología

INTRODUCTION

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very prevalent in the general population, with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, requiring accurate diagnosis and treatment.

AIM

The aim of this expert review is to establish good clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and personalized treatment of GERD.

METHODS

The good clinical practice recommendations were produced by a group of experts in GERD, members of the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología (AMG), after carrying out an extensive review of the published literature and discussing each recommendation at a face-to-face meeting. This document does not aim to be a clinical practice guideline with the methodology such a document requires.

RESULTS

Fifteen experts on GERD formulated 27 good clinical practice recommendations for recognizing the symptoms and complications of GERD, the rational use of diagnostic tests and medical treatment, the identification and management of refractory GERD, the overlap with functional disorders, endoscopic and surgical treatment, and GERD in the pregnant woman, older adult, and the obese patient.

CONCLUSIONS

An accurate diagnosis of GERD is currently possible, enabling the prescription of a personalized treatment in patients with this condition. The goal of the good clinical practice recommendations by the group of experts from the AMG presented in this document is to aid both the general practitioner and specialist in the process of accurate diagnosis and treatment, in the patient with GERD.

A novel modified endoscopic method for treating patients with refractory gastro-esophageal disease and moderate hiatus hernia

BACKGROUND AND AIM

endoscopic anti-reflux mucosectomy (ARMS) is effective for patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD) with small hiatus hernia. However, evidence of its applicability in patients with larger hernia sac is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency and safety of ARMS for patients with rGERD with moderate hiatus hernia (3-5 cm) and determine the appropriate resection range.

METHODS

thirty-six patients with rGERD with moderate hiatus hernia were enrolled. They were divided into 2/3 and 3/4 circumferential mucosal resection groups. The patients received modified ARMS. The gastroesophageal reflux disease questionnaire (GERD-Q) and DeMeester scores, endoscopy, 24-h pH monitoring results and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) resting pressure were compared pre- and post-procedure. Therapeutic effects and complications of the two mucosal resection ranges were analyzed.

RESULTS

thirty-six patients were enrolled in this study, all of whom had undergone ARMS surgery with at least six-month follow-up. In the 2/3 circumferential mucosal resection group, the GERD-Q score, acid exposure time (AET) and DeMeester score improved significantly compared with those before surgery (p < 0.001). In the 3/4 circumferential mucosal resection group, the GERD-Q score, AET and DeMeeter score worsened after six months (p < 0.001), but there was no difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). In both groups, there was no significant improvement in the ratio of esophagitis grade C/D and LES resting pressure after treatment compared with the baseline values (p > 0.05), and no postoperative bleeding or perforation was observed. The incidence of postoperative esophageal stenosis in the 2/3 circumferential mucosal resection group was lower than that in the 3/4 circumferential mucosal resection group (p = 0.041).

CONCLUSION

modified ARMS is effective for patients with rGERD with moderate hiatus hernia, but it cannot significantly increase the postoperative resting pressure of the LES. The 2/3 circumferential mucosal resection can reduce the incidence of postoperative esophageal stenosis.

The status of endoscopic therapies for gastroesophageal reflux disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is exceedingly common and can significantly impact quality of life through heartburn, troublesome regurgitation, or atypical symptoms. The initial approach is conservative lifestyle changes followed by medications with escalation to antireflux surgery as needed. Endoscopic therapy may represent a bridge between pharmacotherapy and surgery and represents an appropriate option for select individuals.

RECENT FINDINGS

Appropriate patient selection for endoscopic antireflux therapies is critical to the success of the intervention. Candidates for endoscopic treatment with trans-oral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) include those with a small (<2 cm) or no hiatal hernia and a Hill valve grade 1 or 2. Transoral incisionless fundoplication with concomitant hiatal hernia repair (cTIF) is a safe and effective option that addresses both the crural diaphragm and gastroesophageal flap valve (GEFV).

SUMMARY

Endoscopic interventions for GERD continue to evolve and are not all created equal. Given our current understanding of the mechanisms of GERD, the TIF procedure stands out in its ability to re-create the optimal GEFV. In those patients with altered anatomy, endoscopic approaches may offer at least partial benefit.

Impact of second-generation transoral incisionless fundoplication on atypical GERD symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) using the EsophyX device (EndoGastric Solutions, Inc, Redmond, Wash, USA) is a minimally invasive endoscopic fundoplication technique. Our study aimed to assess the efficacy of TIF for atypical GERD symptoms in patients with chronic or refractory GERD.

METHODS

A systematic search of 4 major databases was performed. All original studies assessing atypical GERD using a validated symptom questionnaire (the reflux symptom index [RSI]) were included. The RSI score was assessed before and after TIF at a 6- and 12-month follow-up. Data on technical success rate, adverse events, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, and patient satisfaction were also collected. Only TIF procedures currently in practice using the EsophyX device (ie, TIF 2.0) and TIF with concomitant hiatal hernia repair were included in the review.

RESULTS

Ten studies (564 patients) were included. At the 6- and 12- month follow-up, there was a mean reduction of 15.72 (95% confidence interval, 12.15-19.29) and 14.73 (95% confidence interval, 11.74-17.72) points, respectively, in the RSI score post-TIF, with a technical success rate of 99.5% and a pooled adverse event rate of 1%. At both time intervals, more than two-thirds of the patients were satisfied with their health condition and roughly three-fourths of the patients were off daily PPIs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that TIF using the EsophyX device is safe and effective in reducing atypical GERD symptoms at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. It improves patient-centered outcomes and can be a minimally invasive therapeutic option for patients suffering from atypical GERD symptoms on chronic medical therapy.

Endoscopic approach to eosinophilic esophagitis: American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Consensus Conference

Endoscopy plays a critical role in caring for and evaluating the patient with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Endoscopy is essential for diagnosis, assessment of response to therapy, treatment of esophageal strictures, and ongoing monitoring of patients in histologic remission. To date, less-invasive testing for identifying or grading EoE severity has not been established, whereas diagnostic endoscopy as integral to both remains the criterion standard. Therapeutic endoscopy in patients with adverse events of EoE may also be required. In particular, dilation may be essential to treat and attenuate progression of the disease in select patients to minimize further fibrosis and stricture formation. Using a modified Delphi consensus process, a group of 20 expert clinicians and investigators in EoE were assembled to provide guidance for the use of endoscopy in EoE. Through an iterative process, the group achieved consensus on 20 statements yielding comprehensive advice on tissue-sampling standards, gross assessment of disease activity, use and performance of endoscopic dilation, and monitoring of disease, despite an absence of high-quality evidence. Key areas of controversy were identified when discussions yielded an inability to reach agreement on the merit of a statement. We expect that with ongoing research, higher-quality evidence will be obtained to enable creation of a guideline for these issues. We further anticipate that forthcoming expert-generated and agreed-on statements will provide valuable practice advice on the role and use of endoscopy in patients with EoE.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication is cost-effective for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Background and study aims  Given the sizable number of patients with symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) despite proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy, non-pharmacologic treatment has become increasingly utilized. The aim of this study was to analyze the cost-effectiveness of medical, endoscopic, and surgical treatment of GERD. Patients and methods  A deterministic Markov cohort model was constructed from the US healthcare payer's perspective to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of three competing strategies: 1) omeprazole 20 mg twice daily; 2) transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF 2.0); and 3) laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication [LNF]. Cost was reported in US dollars with health outcomes recorded in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Ten-year and lifetime time horizons were utilized with 3 % discount rate and half-cycle corrections applied. The main outcome was incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) with a willingness-to-pay threshold of $ 100,000 per QALY. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses were also performed. Results  In our base-case analysis, the average cost of TIF 2.0 was $ 13,978.63 versus $ 17,658.47 for LNF and $ 10,931.49 for PPI. Compared to the PPI strategy, TIF 2.0 was cost-effective with an incremental cost of $ 3,047 and incremental effectiveness of 0.29 QALYs, resulting in an ICER of $ 10,423.17 /QALY gained. LNF was strongly dominated by TIF 2.0. Over a lifetime horizon, TIF 2.0 remained the cost-effective strategy for patients with symptoms despite twice-daily 20-mg omeprazole. TIF 2.0 remained cost-effective after varying parameter inputs in deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses and for scenario analyses in multiple age groups. Conclusions  Based upon this study, TIF 2.0 was cost-effective for patients with symptomatic GERD despite low-dose, twice-daily PPI.

Applying Lyon Consensus criteria in the work-up of patients with proton pump inhibitory-refractory heartburn

BACKGROUND

A hierarchical approach for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) diagnosis by impedance-pH monitoring was proposed by the Lyon Consensus, based on acid exposure time (AET) and supportive impedance metrics.

AIMS

To establish the clinical value of Lyon Consensus criteria in the work-up of patients with proton pump inhibitory (PPI)-refractory heartburn.

METHODS

Expert review of off-therapy impedance-pH tracings from unproven GERD patients with PPI-refractory heartburn prospectively evaluated at referral centers. Impedance metrics, namely total reflux episodes, postreflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index, and mean nocturnal baseline impedance, were assessed. Expert review of on-therapy preoperative impedance-pH tracings from a separate cohort of surgically treated erosive/nonerosive GERD cases.

RESULTS

Off-therapy, normal, inconclusive, and abnormal AET was found in 59%, 17%, and 23% of 317 cases. Supportive evidence of GERD was provided by abnormal impedance metrics in up to 22% and 62% of cases in the normal and inconclusive AET groups, respectively. Adding the cases with inconclusive AET and abnormal impedance metrics to the abnormal AET group, a significant increase in GERD evidence was observed (from 23% to 37% of cases, p < 0.0002). At the on-therapy presurgical evaluation, abnormal/inconclusive AET and supraphysiological values of impedance metrics showed ongoing reflux in 21% and 90% of 96 cases, respectively (p < 0.00001); a relationship between on-therapy ongoing reflux and PPI-refractory heartburn was confirmed by the favorable surgical outcome at 3-year follow-up, 88% of cases being in persistent off-PPI heartburn remission.

CONCLUSIONS

Impedance-pH monitoring, off- and on-therapy, is of high clinical value in the work-up of patients with PPI-refractory heartburn.

Response of Laryngopharyngeal Symptoms to Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication in Patients with Refractory Proven Gastroesophageal Reflux

OBJECTIVE

Patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) symptoms may not respond to proton pump inhibitors (PPI) if they have an alternative laryngeal diagnosis or high-volume reflux. Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) or TIF with concomitant hiatal hernia repair (cTIF) are effective in decreasing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) but are not well studied in patients with LPR symptoms. This prospective multicenter study assessed the patient-reported and clinical outcomes after TIF/cTIF in patients with LPR symptoms and proven GERD.

METHODS

Patients with refractory LPR symptoms (reflux symptom index [RSI] > 13) and with erosive esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and/or pathologic acid reflux by distal esophageal pH testing were evaluated before and after a minimum of 6 months after TIF/cTIF. The primary outcome was normalization of RSI. Secondary outcomes were >50% improvement in GERD-Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL), normalization of esophageal acid exposure time, discontinuation of PPI, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients had TIF (n = 26) or cTIF (n = 23) with at least 6 months follow-up. Mean pre- and post TIF/cTIF RSI were 23.6 and 5.9 (mean difference: 17.7, P < .001). Post TIF/cTIF, 90% of patients had improved GERD-HQRL score, 85% normalized RSI, 75% normalized esophageal acid exposure time, and 80% discontinued PPI. No serious procedure-related adverse events occurred. Patient satisfaction was 4% prior to TIF/cTIF and 73% after TIF/cTIF (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

In patients with objective evidence of GERD, TIF, or cTIF are safe and effective in controlling LPR symptoms as measured by normalization of RSI and improvement in patient satisfaction after TIF/cTIF.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4.

Endoscopic management of gastroesophageal reflux disease: Panacea for proton pump inhibitors dependent/refractory patients

Endoscopic therapies in proton pump inhibitors (PPI) dependent/refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are increasingly indicated in patients who are not suitable or willing for chronic medical therapy and surgical fundoplication. Currently available endoluminal anti-reflux procedures include radiofrequency therapy (Stretta), suturing/plication and mucosal ablation/resection techniques at the gastroesophageal junction. Meticulous work up and patient selection results in a favorable outcome with these endoscopic therapies, especially the quality of life and partially the PPI independence. Stretta can be considered in patients with PPI refractory GERD and might have a role in patients with reflux hypersensitivity and functional heartburn. Endoscopic fundoplication using the Esophyx device and the GERD-X device have strong evidence (multiple randomized controlled trials) in patients with small hiatus hernia and high volume reflux episodes. Mucosal resection/ablation techniques like anti-reflux mucosectomy and anti-reflux mucosal ablation have shown promising results but need long term follow-up studies to prove their efficacy. The subset of PPI dependent GERD population will benefit from endoscopic therapies and the future of endoscopic management of GERD looks promising.

AGA Clinical Practice Update on the Personalized Approach to the Evaluation and Management of GERD: Expert Review

BACKGROUND & AIMS

As many as one-half of all patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) do not derive benefit from acid suppression. This review outlines a personalized diagnostic and therapeutic approach to GERD symptoms.

METHODS

The Best Practice Advice statements presented here were developed from expert review of existing literature combined with extensive discussion and expert opinion to provide practical advice. Formal rating of the quality of evidence or strength of recommendations was not the intent of this clinical practice update. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: Clinicians should develop a care plan for investigation of symptoms suggestive of GERD, selection of therapy (with explanation of potential risks and benefits), and long-term management, including possible de-escalation, in a shared-decision making model with the patient. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: Clinicians should provide standardized educational material on GERD mechanisms, weight management, lifestyle and dietary behaviors, relaxation strategies, and awareness about the brain-gut axis relationship to patients with reflux symptoms. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: Clinicians should emphasize safety of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for the treatment of GERD. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: Clinicians should provide patients presenting with troublesome heartburn, regurgitation, and/or non-cardiac chest pain without alarm symptoms a 4- to 8-week trial of single-dose PPI therapy. With inadequate response, dosing can be increased to twice a day or switched to a more effective acid suppressive agent once a day. When there is adequate response, PPI should be tapered to the lowest effective dose. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: If PPI therapy is continued in a patient with unproven GERD, clinicians should evaluate the appropriateness and dosing within 12 months after initiation, and offer endoscopy with prolonged wireless reflux monitoring off PPI therapy to establish appropriateness of long-term PPI therapy. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: If troublesome heartburn, regurgitation, and/or non-cardiac chest pain do not respond adequately to a PPI trial or when alarm symptoms exist, clinicians should investigate with endoscopy and, in the absence of erosive reflux disease (Los Angeles B or greater) or long-segment (≥3 cm) Barrett's esophagus, perform prolonged wireless pH monitoring off medication (96-hour preferred if available) to confirm and phenotype GERD or to rule out GERD. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: Complete endoscopic evaluation of GERD symptoms includes inspection for erosive esophagitis (graded according to the Los Angeles classification when present), diaphragmatic hiatus (Hill grade of flap valve), axial hiatus hernia length, and inspection for Barrett's esophagus (graded according to the Prague classification and biopsied when present). BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 8: Clinicians should perform upfront objective reflux testing off medication (rather than an empiric PPI trial) in patients with isolated extra-esophageal symptoms and suspicion for reflux etiology. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 9: In symptomatic patients with proven GERD, clinicians should consider ambulatory 24-hour pH-impedance monitoring on PPI as an option to determine the mechanism of persisting esophageal symptoms despite therapy (if adequate expertise exists for interpretation). BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 10: Clinicians should personalize adjunctive pharmacotherapy to the GERD phenotype, in contrast to empiric use of these agents. Adjunctive agents include alginate antacids for breakthrough symptoms, nighttime H2 receptor antagonists for nocturnal symptoms, baclofen for regurgitation or belch predominant symptoms, and prokinetics for coexistent gastroparesis. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 11: Clinicians should provide pharmacologic neuromodulation, and/or referral to a behavioral therapist for hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, diaphragmatic breathing, and relaxation strategies in patients with functional heartburn or reflux disease associated with esophageal hypervigilance reflux hypersensitivity and/or behavioral disorders. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 12: In patients with proven GERD, laparoscopic fundoplication and magnetic sphincter augmentation are effective surgical options, and transoral incisionless fundoplication is an effective endoscopic option in carefully selected patients. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 13: In patients with proven GERD, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is an effective primary anti-reflux intervention in obese patients, and a salvage option in non-obese patients, whereas sleeve gastrectomy has potential to worsen GERD. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 14: Candidacy for invasive anti-reflux procedures includes confirmatory evidence of pathologic GERD, exclusion of achalasia, and assessment of esophageal peristaltic function.

Antireflux mucosal intervention (ARMI) procedures for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic treatments are increasingly being offered for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Three procedures have similar concepts and techniques: antireflux mucosectomy (ARMS), antireflux mucosal ablation (ARMA), and antireflux band ligation (ARBL); we have collectively termed them antireflux mucosal intervention (ARMI). Here, we systematically reviewed the clinical outcomes and technical aspects.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to October 2021. The primary outcome was the clinical success rate. The secondary outcomes were acid exposure time, DeMeester score, need for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), endoscopic findings, and adverse events.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies were included. The pooled clinical success rate was 73.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 69%-78%) overall, 68.6% (95% CI = 62.2%-74.4%) with ARMS, 86.7% (95% CI = 78.7%-91.9%) with ARMA, and 76.5% (95% CI = 65%-85.1%) with ARBL. ARMI resulted in significantly improved acid exposure time, DeMeester score, and degree of hiatal hernia. Furthermore, 10% of patients had dysphagia requiring endoscopic dilatation after ARMS or ARMA, and ARMS was associated with a 2.2% perforation rate. By contrast, no bleeding, perforation, or severe dysphagia was noted with ARBL. Severe hiatal hernia (Hill grade III) may predict treatment failure with ARMA.

CONCLUSIONS

The three ARMI procedures were efficacious and safe for PPI-refractory GERD. ARMA and ARBL may be preferred over ARMS because of fewer adverse events and similar efficacy. Further studies are necessary to determine the optimal technique and patient selection.

Reflux Monitoring in Lung Disease: Is There a Better Metric than Esophageal Acid Exposure Time?

Ambulatory reflux monitoring can be performed with either a telemetry capsule to monitor for esophageal acid exposure alone for a period of 48-96 hours, and a 24 hour catheter based impedance/pH study which is most valuable for evaluating patients with objective evidence of GERD who are incompletely relieved with proton pump inhibitors. Some would consider catheter-based impedance/pH as the "best" test to evaluate patients with extraesophageal symptoms including suspected pulmonary complications of GERD. This editorial provides comment on the use of novel advanced metrics, mean nocturnal baseline impedance and post-reflux induced-swallow peristaltic wave index in analysis of these studies.

Endoscopic anti-reflux therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease has an increasing incidence and prevalence worldwide. A significant proportion of patients have a suboptimal response to proton pump inhibitors or are unwilling to take lifelong medication due to concerns about long-term adverse effects. Endoscopic anti-reflux therapies offer a minimally invasive option for patients unwilling to undergo surgical treatment or take lifelong medication. The best candidates are those with a good response to proton pump inhibitors and without a significant sliding hiatal hernia. Transoral incisionless fundoplication and nonablative radiofrequency are the techniques with the largest body of evidence and that have been tested in several randomized clinical trials. Band-assisted ligation techniques, anti-reflux mucosectomy, anti-reflux mucosal ablation, and new plication devices have yielded promising results in recent noncontrolled studies. Nonetheless, the role of endoscopic procedures remains controversial due to limited long-term and comparative data, and no consensus exists in current clinical guidelines. This review provides an updated summary focused on the patient selection, technical details, clinical success, and safety of current and future endoscopic anti-reflux techniques.

Endoscopic approaches to gastroesophageal reflux disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting adults. A substantial proportion of patients continue to have symptoms despite medical therapy, and there has been increased demand for minimally invasive GERD therapy. We will examine currently available techniques and outcomes data on endoscopic approaches to the treatment of GERD.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the last 2 years, research has given rise to more robust understanding of not only the pathophysiology of GERD but also how to better manage the various phenotypes. We are learning the ideal patient to benefit from endoscopic GERD therapy. In this review, we describe the four major endoluminal techniques for treating GERD and summarize current data.

SUMMARY

Endoscopic therapies are well positioned to fill the 'therapy gap' between medical therapy and more invasive surgical procedures.

Diagnosis and Management of Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

In up to half of patients with symptoms suspected to stem from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), these symptoms persist despite treatment with daily proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. The symptoms may be characterized as typical (eg, heartburn or regurgitation) or atypical (eg, chest pain or cough). These refractory symptoms, which are frequently encountered in clinical practice, may stem from GERD as well as non-GERD etiologies. Among those patients with objective GERD proven on esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and/ or ambulatory reflux testing, approximately one-fifth may manifest suboptimal symptom response to PPI therapy. After introducing the initial evaluation of patients with suspected GERD symptoms, this article discusses approaches to the esophageal diagnostic workup of patients with refractory symptoms in the setting of proven GERD, focusing on EGD, high-resolution manometry (HRM), and pH-impedance monitoring during treatment with PPI therapy. EGD evaluates for esophagitis, peptic stricture, and hiatal hernia, as well as eosinophilic esophagitis. HRM rules out confounding esophageal motor disorders, identifies behavioral disorders, characterizes the antireflux barrier, and assesses esophageal contractile reserve to help tailor potential antireflux interventions. pH-impedance monitoring during treatment with PPI therapy can help distinguish between PPI-refractory GERD-as evidenced by pathologic acid exposure despite PPI therapy and/or excess burden of reflux events regardless of acidity-and PPI-controlled GERD. This article also discusses potential approaches for patients with symptoms stemming from refractory GERD, encompassing lifestyle, pharmacologic, endoscopic, and surgical management options.

Ambulatory Reflux Monitoring Guides Proton Pump Inhibitor Discontinuation in Patients With Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms: A Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy fails to provide adequate symptom control in up to 50% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Although a proportion do not require ongoing PPI therapy, a diagnostic approach to identify candidates appropriate for PPI cessation is not available. This study aimed to examine the clinical utility of prolonged wireless reflux monitoring to predict the ability to discontinue PPIs.

METHODS

This double-blinded clinical trial performed over 3 years at 2 centers enrolled adults with troublesome esophageal symptoms of heartburn, regurgitation, and/or chest pain and inadequate PPI response. Participants underwent prolonged wireless reflux monitoring (off PPIs for ≥7 days) and a 3-week PPI cessation intervention. Primary outcome was tolerance of PPI cessation (discontinued or resumed PPIs). Symptom burden was quantified using the Reflux Symptom Questionnaire electronic Diary (RESQ-eD).

RESULTS

Of 128 enrolled, 100 participants met inclusion criteria (mean age, 48.6 years; 41 men). Thirty-four participants (34%) discontinued PPIs. The strongest predictor of PPI discontinuation was number of days with acid exposure time (AET) > 4.0% (odds ratio, 1.82; P < .001). Participants with 0 days of AET > 4.0% had a 10 times increased odds of discontinuing PPI than participants with 4 days of AET > 4.0%. Reduction in symptom burden was greater among the discontinued versus resumed PPI group (RESQ-eD, -43.7% vs -5.3%; P = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with typical reflux symptoms, inadequate PPI response, and absence of severe esophagitis, acid exposure on reflux monitoring predicted the ability to discontinue PPIs without symptom escalation. Upfront reflux monitoring off acid suppression can limit unnecessary PPI use and guide personalized management. (ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT03202537).

Pathophysiology and treatment options for gastroesophageal reflux disease: looking beyond acid

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disorder due to the retrograde flow of refluxate into the esophagus. Although GERD is a common clinical diagnosis, its pathogenesis is quite complex. As a result of its multifactorial development, many patients continue to experience adverse symptoms due to GERD despite prolonged acid suppression with proton pump inhibitor therapy. The pathogenesis of GERD involves an interplay of chemical, mechanical, psychologic, and neurologic mechanisms, which contribute to symptom presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. As such, GERD should be approached as a disorder beyond acid. This review will investigate the major factors that contribute to the development of GERD, including factors related to the refluxate, esophageal defenses, and factors that promote pathologic reflux into the esophagus. In reviewing GERD pathogenesis, this paper will highlight therapeutic advances, with mention of future opportunities of study when approaching GERD.

Non-acid Reflux: When It Matters and Approach to Management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This narrative review focuses on the presentation, contributing factors, diagnosis, and treatment of non-acid reflux. We also propose algorithms for diagnosis and treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is a paucity of recent data regarding non-acid reflux. The recent Porto and Lyon consensus statements do not fully address non-acid reflux or give guidance on classification. However, recent developments in the lung transplantation field, as well as older data in the general population, argue for the importance of non-acid reflux. Extrapolating from the Porto and Lyon consensus, we generally classify pathologic non-acid reflux as impedance events > 80, acid exposure time < 4%, and positive symptom correlation on a standard 24-h pH/impedance test. Other groups not meeting this criteria also deserve consideration depending on the clinical situation. Potential treatments include lifestyle modification, increased acid suppression, alginates, treatment of esophageal hypersensitivity, baclofen, buspirone, prokinetics, and anti-reflux surgery in highly selected individuals. More research is needed to clarify appropriate classification, with subsequent focus on targeted treatments.