The impact of an antireflux procedure on intestinal metaplasia of the cardia

Barrett's Epithelium to Esophageal Adenocarcinoma: Is There a "Point of No Return"?

Background: Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA) arises from Barrett's epithelium (BE), and chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease is considered the strongest risk factor for disease progression. All BE patients undergo acid suppressive therapy, surveillance, and BE removal by surgery or endoscopic ablation, yet the incidence of EAC continues to increase. Despite the known side effects and mortality, the one-size-fits-all approach is the standard clinical management as there are no reliable methods for risk stratification. Methods: Paired-end Illumina NextSeq500 RNA sequencing was performed on total RNA extracted from 20-week intervals (0, 20, 40, and 60 W) of an in vitro BE carcinogenesis (BEC) model to construct time series global gene expression patterns (GEPs). The cells from two strategic time points (20 and 40 W) based on the GEPs were grown for another 20 weeks, with and without further acid and bile salt (ABS) stimulation, and the recurrent neoplastic cell phenotypes were evaluated. Results: Hierarchical clustering of 866 genes with ≥ twofold change in transcript levels across the four time points revealed maximum variation between the BEC20W and BEC40W cells. Enrichment analysis confirmed that the genes altered ≥ twofold during this window period associated with carcinogenesis and malignancy. Intriguingly, the BEC20W cells required further ABS exposure to gain neoplastic changes, but the BEC40W cells progressed to malignant transformation after 20 weeks even in the absence of additional ABS. Discussion: The transcriptomic gene expression patterns in the BEC model demonstrate evidence of a clear threshold in the progression of BE to malignancy. Catastrophic transcriptomic changes during a window period culminate in the commitment of the BE cells to a "point of no return," and removal of ABS is not effective in preventing their malignant transformation. Discerning this "point of no return" during BE surveillance by tracking the GEPs has the potential to evaluate risk of BE progression and enable personalized clinical management.

Clinical course of gastroesophageal reflux disease and impact of treatment in symptomatic young patients

In symptomatic young patients with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, early identification of progressive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is critical to prevent long-term complications associated with hiatal hernia, increased esophageal acid and nonacid exposure, release of proinflammatory cytokines, and development of intestinal metaplasia, endoscopically visible Barrett's esophagus, and dysplasia leading to esophageal adenocarcinoma. Progression of GERD may occur in asymptomatic patients and in those under continuous acid-suppressive medication. The long-term side effects of proton-pump inhibitors, chemopreventive agents, and radiofrequency ablation are contentious. In patients with early-stage disease, when the lower esophageal sphincter function is still preserved and before endoscopically visible Barrett's esophagus develops, novel laparoscopic procedures, such as magnetic and electric sphincter augmentation, may have a greater role than conventional surgical therapy. A multidisciplinary approach to GERD by a dedicated team of gastroenterologists and surgeons might impact the patients' lifestyle, the therapeutic choices, and the course of the disease. Biological markers are needed to precisely assess the risk of disease progression and to tailor surveillance, ablation, and management.

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair and Fundoplication for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Antireflux surgery is challenging, and has become even more challenging with the introduction of alternative endoscopic and laparoscopic options for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The Nissen fundoplication remains the gold standard for the durable relief of GERD symptoms and esophagitis. All antireflux procedures have a failure rate, and it is important to minimize factors that are associated with failure. The selection of patients for antireflux surgery as well as the choice of the procedure requires a thorough understanding of esophageal physiology and the pros and cons of various options.

Proposed approach to the challenging management of progressive gastroesophageal reflux disease

The progression of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in patients who are taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has been reported by several investigators, leading to concerns that PPI therapy does not address all aspects of the disease. Patients who are at risk of progression need to be identified early in the course of their disease in order to receive preventive treatment. A review of the literature on GERD progression to Barrett’s esophagus and the associated physiological and pathological changes was performed and risk factors for progression were identified. In addition, a potential approach to the prevention of progression is discussed. Current evidence shows that GERD can progress; however, patients at risk of progression may not be identified early enough for it to be prevented. Biopsies of the squamocolumnar junction that show microscopic intestinalization of metaplastic cardiac mucosa in endoscopically normal patients are predictive of future visible Barrett’s esophagus, and an indicator of GERD progression. Such changes can be identified only through biopsy, which is not currently recommended for endoscopically normal patients. GERD treatment should aim to prevent progression. We propose that endoscopically normal patients who partially respond or do not respond to PPI therapy undergo routine biopsies at the squamocolumnar junction to identify histological changes that may predict future progression. This will allow earlier intervention, aimed at preventing Barrett’s esophagus.

Laparoscopic Nissen Rossetti fundoplication: Possibility towards day care anti-reflux surgeries

INTRODUCTION

As we proceed towards more and more day care surgeries we always need to choose patients and procedures within a great deal of safety margin. Anti reflux surgeries are gaining more popularity and awareness and Laparoscopic Nissen Rosetti fundoplication is a safe and effective method of performing them.

METHODS AND OBSERVATIONS

Our case series of 25 patients who underwent day care Laparoscopic Nissen Rossetti fundoplication done over a period of 3 years suggests the feasibility and safety of performing day care anti reflux surgeries with no complications.

DISCUSSION

Surgical outcomes of procedure are unaffected and the main challenge faced remains pain relief and which can be effectively tackled by local blocks or plain NSAIDs.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic Nissen Rossetti fundoplication is a safe procedure to be offered as day care anti-reflux surgery. We encourage more studies in this regards with appropriate blinding to enforce its possibility as day care surgery and help patients with early recovery and decreasing cost of surgeries.

Barrett's oesophagus: treatment with surgery

Barrett's oesophagus develops as a consequence of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and may progress to oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Antireflux surgery is an option for patients with reflux disease, but the efficacy and impact on the natural history of disease in patients with Barrett's oesophagus is controversial. This review addresses the existing data on these important issues.

Acid suppression and surgical therapy for Barrett's oesophagus

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is a common medical problem in developed countries, and is a risk factor for the development of Barrett's oesophagus and oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Both proton pump inhibitor therapy and antireflux surgery are effective at controlling endoscopic signs and symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux in patients with Barrett's oesophagus, but often fail to eliminate pathological oesophageal acid exposure. The current available studies strongly suggest that acid suppressive therapy, both pharmacological as well as surgical acid suppression, can reduce the risk the development and progression in patients with Barrett's oesophagus, but are not capable of complete prevention. No significant differences have been found between pharmacological and surgical therapy. For clinical practice, patients should be prescribed a proton pump inhibitor once daily as maintenance therapy, with the dose guided by symptoms. Antireflux surgery can be a good alternative to proton pump inhibitor therapy, but should be primarily offered to patients with symptomatic reflux, and not to asymptomatic patients with the rationale to protect against cancer.

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in the treatment of Barrett's esophagus - 10 years of experience

Introduction

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a state in which the distal portion of esophageal mucosa becomes lined with cylindrical epithelium as a result of adaptive remodeling. It is widely accepted that the metaplastic lesions result from chronic irritation with gastric and/or duodenal contents in the course of reflux disease. For many years, research centered on the risk factors of BE and resulting adenocarcinoma. Anti-reflux operations are the only procedures which offer the possibility of treating the cause by restoring the anatomic barrier responsible for guarding against irritating effects of gastroduodenal content on the distal esophagus. Total (i.e. 360°) laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is considered the most effective amongst these procedures. Still, controversies related to the indications for anti-reflux surgery are frequently encountered.

Aim

Retrospective analysis of long-term treatment outcomes in patients with BE subjected to laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

Material and methods

The group included 42 BE patients, amongst them 30 men and 12 women. Initially, all the patients were treated conservatively for at least 1 year. The subgroup with dysplasia was subjected to preoperative argon plasma coagulation (APC). From 1 year after surgery (laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication), control biopsy specimens were obtained from the gastroesophageal junction of all the patients.

Results

None of the patients showed the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma during the follow-up period. Furthermore, no cases of dysplasia progression or de novo development of dysplasia were observed in the analyzed group. In the initial 12-24 months after surgery, complete regression of metaplasia was documented in 7 (31.8%) patients from group A, and a reduction in the area of Barrett's metaplasia was observed in another 7 patients (31.8%). Throughout the period of this study, persistent planoepithelial re-epithelialization was observed in 14 (70%) group B patients, i.e. in individuals with baseline dysplasia subjected to preoperative argon plasma ablation. In the remaining patients of this group, the developed changes of BE character were less advanced than at baseline.

Conclusions

Our opinion is that laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, as a result of high effectiveness, represents the method of choice in the treatment of BE in the case of patients who were qualified for surgery.

The effects of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication on Barrett's esophagus: long-term results

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to conduct a retrospective investigation of the efficacy of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in patients with Barrett's esophagus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 78 patients with Barrett's esophagus underwent surgery. Patients were divided into three groups on the basis of the preoperative endoscopic biopsies: a non-intestinal group (n = 63) with fundic or cardiac metaplasia, an intestinal group (n = 18) with intestinal metaplasia, and a dysplastic group (n = 7) with low-grade dysplasia. Clinical follow-up was available in the case of 64 patients at a mean of 42 ± 16.9 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Check-up examination revealed total regression of Barrett's metaplasia in 10 patients. Partial regression was seen in 9 cases, no further progression in 34 patients, and progression into cardiac or intestinal metaplasia in 11 patients. No cases of dysplastic or malignant transformation were registered. Where we observed the regression of BE, among the postoperative functional examinations results of manometry (pressure of lower esophageal sphincter) and pH-metry were significantly better compared with those groups where no changes occurred in BE, or progression of BE was found. Discussion. Our results highlight the importance of the cases of fundic and cardiac metaplasia, which can also transform into intestinal metaplasia.

CONCLUSIONS

Antireflux surgery can appropriately control the reflux disease in a majority of the patients who had unsuccessful medical treatment, and it may inhibit the progression and induce the regression of Barrett's metaplasia in a significant proportion of these patients.

Laparoscopic surgical treatment for patients with short- and long-segment Barrett's esophagus: which technique in which patient?

Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is very successful in patients with short-segment Barrett's esophagus (BE), but in patients with long-segment BE, the results remain in discussion. In these patients, during the open era of surgery, we performed acid suppression + duodenal diversion procedures added to the antireflux procedure (fundoplication + vagotomy + antrectomy + Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy) to obtain better results at long-term follow-up. The aim of this prospective study is to present the results of 3 to 5 years' follow-up in patients with short-segment and long-segment or complicated BE (ulcer or stricture) who underwent fundoplication or the acid suppression-duodenal diversion technique, both performed by a laparoscopic approach. One hundred eight patients with histologically confirmed BE were included: 58 patients with short-segment BE, and 50 with long-segment BE, 28 of whom had complications associated with severe erosive esophagitis, ulcer, or stricture. After surgery, among patients treated with fundoplication with cardia calibration, endoscopic erosive esophagitis was observed in 6.9% of patients with short-segment BE, while 50% of patients with long-segment BE presented with positive acid reflux, persistence of endoscopic esophagitis with intestinal metaplasia, and progression to dysplasia (in 5% of cases; P = 0.000). On the contrary, after acid suppression-duodenal diversion surgery in patients with long-segment BE, more than 95.6% presented with successful results regarding recurrent symptoms and endoscopic regression of esophagitis. Regression of intestinal metaplasia to the cardiac mucosa was observed in 56.9% of patients with short-segment BE who underwent fundoplication and in 61% of those with long-segment BE treated with the acid suppression-duodenal diversion procedure. Patients with long-segment BE who experienced fundoplication alone presented no regression of intestinal metaplasia; on the contrary, progression to dysplasia was observed in 1 case (P = 0.049). Patients with short-segment BE can be successfully treated with fundoplication, but for patients with long-segment BE, we suggest performance of fundoplication plus an acid suppression-duodenal diversion procedure.

Barrett's esophagus: surgical treatments

The following on surgical treatments for Barrett's esophagus includes commentaries on the indications for antireflux surgery after medical treatment; the effects of the various procedures on the lower esophageal sphincter; the role of impaired esophageal motility and delayed gastric emptying in the choice of the surgical procedure; indications for associated highly selective vagotomy, duodenal switch, and gastric electrical stimulation; therapeutic strategies for detection and treatment of shortened esophagus; the role of antireflux surgery on the regression of metaplastic mucosa and the risk of malignant progression; the detection of asymptomatic reflux brfore bariatric surgery; the role of non-GERD symptoms on the results of surgery; and the indications of Collis gastroplasty and choice of the type of fundoplication.

The effect of fundoplication on proliferative and anti-apoptotic activity of esophageal mucosa in gastroesophageal reflux disease: 4-year follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

The capacity of fundoplication to prevent esophageal adenocarcinoma is controversial. Development of cancer is associated with proliferation and anti-apoptosis, for which little data exist as to their response to fundoplication. Therefore, we wanted to clarify the effect of fundoplication on the magnitude of Ki-67 and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) during 48 months of follow up.

METHODS

Ki-67 and Bcl-2 were assessed quantitatively from biopsies of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) and from the distal and proximal esophagus of 20 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) treated by fundoplication. An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed preoperatively and postoperatively at 6 months for 20 patients and 48 months for 16 patients, respectively. Ki-67 and Bcl-2 were compared to those of 7 controls.

RESULTS

Compared to the preoperative level, Ki-67 was elevated in the distal (P = 0.012) and proximal (P = 0.007) esophagus at 48 months. Compared to control values, Ki-67 was lower at 6 months in the EGJ (P = 0.037) and the proximal esophagus (P = 0.003) and higher at 48 months in the distal esophagus (P = 0.002). Compared to control values, Bcl-2 was lower at 6 months in the EGJ (P = 0.038). Correlations between Ki-67 and Bcl-2 were positive in the EGJ (P > 0.001) and in the distal (P = 0.001) and proximal esophagus (P = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Proliferative activity after fundoplication increased during long-term follow up in the distal esophagus despite a normal fundic wrap and objective healing of GERD.

Proliferative and anti-apoptotic activity of esophageal mucosa in gastroesophageal reflux disease is not affected by fundoplication: a 4-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND

The role of fundoplication in the prevention of esophageal adenocarcinoma is controversial. Development of cancer is associated with proliferation and anti-apoptosis, for which little data exist regarding their response to fundoplication.

METHODS

Ki-67 and Bcl-2 expression was assessed in the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) and the distal and proximal esophagus of 20 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) treated by fundoplication and in 7 controls. Endoscopy was performed preoperatively and 6 (20 patients) and 48 months (16 patients) postoperatively.

RESULTS

There were positive correlations between Ki-67 and Bcl-2 levels in the EGJ (p > 0.001) and in the distal (p = 0.001) and proximal esophagus (p = 0.013). Compared to the preoperative level, Ki-67 expression was elevated in the distal (p = 0.012) and proximal (p = 0.007) esophagus at 48 months. In addition, compared to control values, Ki-67 expression was lower at the 6-month follow-up in the EGJ (p = 0.037) and the proximal esophagus (p = 0.003), and higher at the 48-month follow-up in the distal esophagus (p = 0.002). Compared to control values, Bcl-2 was lower at 6 months in the EGJ (p = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

Proliferative activity after fundoplication increased in the long term in the distal esophagus despite a normal fundic wrap and healing of GERD.

Pathophysiology and treatment of Barrett’s esophagus

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects an estimated 20% of the population in the United States. About 10%-15% of patients with GERD develop Barrett’s esophagus, which can progress to adenocarcinoma, currently the most prevalent type of esophageal cancer. The esophagus is normally lined by squamous mucosa, therefore, it is clear that for adenocarcinoma to develop, there must be a sequence of events that result in transformation of the normal squamous mucosa into columnar epithelium. This sequence begins with gastroesophageal reflux, and with continued injury metaplastic columnar epithelium develops. This article reviews the pathophysiology of Barrett’s esophagus and implications for its treatment. The effect of medical and surgical therapy of Barrett’s esophagus is compared.

Does the length of the columnar-lined esophagus change with time?

A number of previous studies have reported patients with Barrett's columnar metaplasia who have an increase or decrease in segment length over time. It is not clear whether patients who have an apparent shortening of the metaplastic segment are subsequently at a lower neoplastic risk and those whose segment length appears to increase are at a higher risk of adenocarcinoma development. The aim of this study was to investigate these issues by studying a large cohort of patients from the UK National Barrett's Oesophagus Registry. Medical records of 1533 patients registered with the UK National Barrett's Oesophagus Registry were examined from seven UK centers. Data were extracted on metaplastic segment length at surveillance endoscopies and histological findings on biopsy. Overall changes in segment length, variability in measurement and probability of the development of dysplasia and neoplasia over time were examined. At least two segment lengths were measured in 763 patients. The median change from measured diagnostic length to most outlying measured segment length was 3.0 cm, but overall there was no tendency for segment length to increase or decrease in the majority of patients with a follow up of up to 20 years. Most patients were treated with proton pump inhibitors. One hundred and eighty-six patients had three or more segment lengths over the first 10 years of follow up. No change in risk was demonstrated in these patients where length appeared to consistently increase with time or when it appeared to decrease. Overall, metaplastic columnar-lined esophagus segment length does not change over time, and when an apparent change is observed, this does not influence a risk of dysplasia or adenocarcinoma.

Short segment columnar-lined oesophagus: an underestimated cancer risk? A large cohort study of the relationship between Barrett's columnar-lined oesophagus segment length and adenocarcinoma risk

OBJECTIVE

Longer columnar-lined oesophagus (CLO) segments have been associated with higher cancer risk, but few studies have demonstrated a significant difference in neoplastic risk stratified by CLO segment length. This study establishes adenocarcinoma risk in CLO by segment length.

METHODS

This is a multicentre retrospective observational study. Medical records of 1000 patients registered from six centres were examined and data extracted on demographic factors, endoscopic features and histopathology of oesophageal biopsies. Adenocarcinoma incidence was evaluated for patients stratified by their diagnostic segment length.

RESULTS

Seven hundred and eighty-one patients had biopsy-proven CLO and a segment length recorded. Four hundred and ninety patients had at least 1 year of follow-up, providing 2620 patient-years of follow-up for incidence analysis. The overall annual adenocarcinoma incidence was 0.62%/year (95% confidence interval: 0.36-1.01). The annual incidence in the segment length groups was 0.59% (0.19-1.37) in short segment (<or=3 cm), 0.099% (0.025-0.55) in >3 <or=6 cm, 0.98% (0.27-2.52) in >6 <or=9 cm and 2.0% (0.73-4.35) in >9 cm; P=0.004.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the neoplastic risk of CLO varies according to segment length, and that overall, the risk of adenocarcinoma development is similar in short-segment and long-segment (>3 cm) CLO. The highest adenocarcinoma risk was found in the longest CLO segments and lowest risk in segments >3 <or=6 cm.

The effect of antireflux surgery on esophageal carcinogenesis in patients with barrett esophagus: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether patients with Barrett esophagus who undergo antireflux surgery differ from medically treated patients in incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma and probability of disease regression/progression.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Barrett esophagus is a risk factor for the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma. A question exists as to whether antireflux surgery reduces this risk.

METHODS

Query of PubMed (1966 through October 2005) using predetermined search terms revealed 2011 abstracts, of which 100 full-text articles were reviewed. Twenty-five articles met selection criteria. A review of article references and consultation with experts revealed additional articles for inclusion. Studies that enrolled adults with biopsy-proven Barrett esophagus, specified treatment-type rendered, followed up patients with endoscopic biopsies no less than12 months of instituting therapy, and provided adequate extractable data. The incidence of adenocarcinoma and the proportion of patients developing progression or regression of Barrett esophagus and/or dysplasia were extracted.

RESULTS

In surgical and medical groups, 700 and 996 patients were followed for a total of 2939 and 3711 patient-years, respectively. The incidence rate of esophageal adenocarcinoma was 2.8 (95% confidence interval, 1.2-5.3) per 1000 patient-years among surgically treated patients and 6.3 (3.6-10.1) among medically treated patients (P = 0.034). Heterogeneity in incidence rates in surgically treated patients was observed between controlled studies and case series (P = 0.014). Among controlled studies, incidence rates were 4.8 (1.7-11.1) and 6.5 (2.6-13.8) per 1000 patient-years in surgical and medical patients, respectively (P = 0.320). Probability of progression was 2.9% (1.2-5.5) in surgical patients and 6.8% (2.6-12.1) in medical patients (P = 0.054). Probability of regression was 15.4% (6.1-31.4) in surgical patients and 1.9% (0.4-7.3) in medical patients (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Antireflux surgery is associated with regression of Barrett esophagus and/or dysplasia. However, evidence suggesting that surgery reduces the incidence of adenocarcinoma is largely driven by uncontrolled studies.

Normalization of intestinal metaplasia in the esophagus and esophagogastric junction: incidence and clinical data

BACKGROUND

Attention has focused on whether normalization, regression, and development of dysplasia and cancer in specialized intestinal metaplasia (SIM) differ among long-segment Barrett's esophagus (LSBE), short-segment BE (SSBE), and esophagogastric junction SIM (EGJSIM). We prospectively followed a cohort of SIM patients receiving long-term antisecretory medications to determine: (a) histologic normalization (no evidence of SIM on biopsy), (b) change in SIM length, (c) incidence of dysplasia and cancer, and (d) factors associated with normalization.

METHODS

One hundred forty-eight patients with SIM were identified in our original cohort. Of these, 60.5% (23/38) LSBE, 69.8% (44/63) SSBE, and 72.3% (34/47) EGJSIM patients underwent repeat surveillance over a mean 44.4 +/- 9.7 months. Demographic, clinical, and endoscopic data were obtained.

RESULTS

(a) With long-term, antisecretory therapy, normalization occurred in 0/23 LSBE, 30% (13/44) of SSBE, and 68% (23/34) of EGJSIM (P < 0.001). (b) Normalization was more likely with EGJSIM (odds ratio [OR] 6.7, CI 2.3-19.3, P= 0.005), female gender (OR 7.3, CI 2.3-23.1, P= 0.001), or absence of hiatal hernia (OR 2.9, CI 1.02-8.06, P= 0.002). (c) A significant decrease in mean SIM length was noted for the entire population (2.5 +/- 0.3 to 2.13 +/- 0.3 cm, P= 0.004). (d) Follow-up incidence of dysplasia and cancer was 26.1% (3 indefinite, 2 low-grade dysplasia [LGD], 1 cancer) for LSBE, 6.8% (2 indefinite, 1 LGD) for SSBE, and none for EGJSIM (P < 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

(a) Normalization of SIM occurs most frequently in EGJSIM>SSBE>LSBE. (b) Factors associated with normalization favor less severe GER and shorter segments of SIM. (c) Surveillance of LSBE results in the greatest yield for identifying dysplasia and cancer.

Laparoscopic treatment of Barrett's esophagus: long-term results

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is considered the main etiologic process in the metaplastic development of Barrett's esophagus (BE). The most serious complication of BE is the possible dysplastic evolution to esophageal carcinoma. Many treatments have been described to prevent the progression of BE. The outcomes of these interventions are controversial. The aim of this study was to assess whether laparoscopic fundoplication for GERD had an impact on the development of BE.

METHODS

Prospective data were collected from patients who were treated with a laparoscopic fundoplication for BE. Data was collected and analyzed for a variety of clinical and pathologic outcomes.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic fundoplications were completed between 1993 and 2001, with a total sample size of 92 (mean age 53 +/- 11.8 years). Each patient was diagnosed with GERD associated with BE confirmed by both endoscopy and biopsy. A laparoscopic fundoplication was performed in all patients (360 degree fundoplication in 81 patients and partial fundoplication in 11 patients). There was no postoperative mortality or major complications from the procedure. The mean postoperative stay was 3 +/- 1 days. Seventy patients (76% of the overall sample size) were followed up for a mean 4.2 +/- 2.6 years. Of the patients available for follow-up, 33% (n = 23) had a complete regression of their BE; 21% (n = 15) had a decrease in the degree of metaplasia/dysplasia; 39% (n = 27) had no significant change; and 7% (n = 5) experienced a progression of the BE. Five patients required further procedures for three reasons: (1) GERD recurrence (n = 2), (2) progression of BE (n = 2), and (3) intrathoracic migration (n = 1). No patients developed high-grade dysplasia or esophageal carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that laparoscopic fundoplication offers a safe and effective long-term treatment for BE. The procedure also demonstrated regression of BE in more than 50% of the sample size.

Regression of intestinal metaplasia to cardiac or fundic mucosa in patients with Barrett's esophagus submitted to vagotomy, partial gastrectomy and duodenal diversion. A prospective study of 78 patients with more than 5 years of follow up

BACKGROUND

Regression of intestinal metaplasia to cardiac mucosa in patients with Barrett's (BE) esophagus could alter the natural history of BE.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the regression of intestinal metaplasia to cardiac mucosa in patients followed more than 5 years after operation, by repeated endoscopy with biopsy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This prospective study included 78 patients with BE submitted to combined vagotomy, antrectomy (an antireflux procedure), and Roux-en-Y gastrointestinal reconstruction with more than 60 months follow up. Patients were divided in 3 groups: (1) 31 with short-segment BE (< or =30 mm length); (2) 42 with long-segment BE (31 to 99 mm length); and (3) 5 with extra-long-segment BE (> or =100 mm). Each patient had at least three endoscopic procedures with multiple biopsies during a mean follow up of 95 months (range, 60-220 months). Acid and duodenal reflux were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Sixty-four percent of patients with short segment BE had regression to cardiac mucosa at a mean of 40 months after operation. Sixty-two percent of patients with long segment BE had regression to cardiac mucosa at a mean of 47 months postoperatively. No regression occurred in the 5 patients with extra-long segment BE. In 20% of patients, regression to fundic mucosa occurred between 78 to 94 months after surgery. One patient progressed to low grade dysplasia, but no patient progressed to high-grade dysplasia or adenocarcinoma. Acid and duodenal reflux studies demonstrated that in asymptomatic patients, reflux was abolished; 90% of the patients had a Visick grade of 1 or 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Vagotomy and antrectomy combined with duodenal bile diversion abolish acid and duodenal reflux into the distal esophagus in patients with BE, which is accompanied by a regression of BE from intestinal to cardiac or fundic mucosa in about 60% of patients. This regression is time dependent and varies directly with the length of BE. The potential for an antineoplastic effect, especially in young patients with long segment BE, suggests that this operation may become an attractive option as a definitive surgical treatment. Patients with short segment BE submitted to this procedure behave similar to patients submitted to Nissen fundoplication, and therefore in these patients, we do not advocate this complex operation.

Histologic and clinical outcome after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for the regression of Barrett's esophagus in gastroesophageal reflux disease remains controversial. The aim of this study, therefore, was to review endoscopic findings and clinical changes after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication for gastroesophageal reflux disease, particularly for patients with Barrett's esophagus.

METHODS

From September 1995 through June 2004, 127 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. All the patients had clinical and endoscopic follow-up evaluation. We further analyzed the course of 37 consecutive patients with Barrett's esophagus (29% of all laparoscopic fundoplications performed in our institution) using endoscopic surveillance with appropriate biopsies and histologic evaluation. The median follow-up period for all the patients after fundoplication was 34 months (range, 3-108 months). The median follow-up period for the patients with Barrett's esophagus was 19 months (range, 3-76 months).

RESULTS

During the 9-year period, 70 women (55 %) and 57 (45%) men were treated with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. The median age of these patients was 42 years (range, 7-81 years). The clinical results were considered excellent for 67 patients (53%), good for 51 patients (40%), fair for 7 patients (6%), and poor for 2 patients (1%). Endoscopic surveillance showed regression of the macroscopic columnar segment in 23 patients with Barrett's esophagus (62%). Regression at a histopathologic level occurred for 15 patients (40%). The histopathology remained unchanged for 14 patients with Barrett's esophagus (38%).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication effectively controls intestinal metaplasia and clinical symptoms in the majority of patients with Barrett's esophagus.

Surgical therapy for Barrett's esophagus

Given the anatomic and functional defects almost universally present in patients who have BE, antireflux surgery is the most reliable means of stopping acid and nonacid (alkaline) reflux. Because patients who have BE have end-stage GERD, they require durable and reliable control of reflux, and the Hill procedure and partial fundoplication are associated with unacceptably high failure rates. In addition, there is mounting evidence that the success rates for Nissen fundoplication are lower in patients who have BE than in patients who have less severe GERD. Given that the most common mode of failure of a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is herniation of the fundoplication into the chest, patients who have BE must be considered at risk for having a short esophagus. The failure rate may be reduced by the liberal addition of a Collis gastroplasty, but the long-term consequences of acid-secreting mucosa left above the fundoplication in patients who have BE remain unclear. Patients suspected of having a short esophagus on the basis of a large hiatal hernia, stricture, or long-segment BE should be considered for a transthoracic approach to their fundoplication, as this affords good esophageal mobilization and may obviate the need for a gastroplasty. Surgeons must pay particular attention to their own and published results and continue to refine the operation to maximize the likelihood of a good outcome in this difficult group of patients. It is only with excellent control of reflux that any differences in the risk of progression to dysplasia and cancer become apparent, and significant, between medically and surgically treated patients.

p53--prognostic factor of malignant transformation of Barrett's esophagus

The most significant precancerosis in the esophageal cancer is Barrett's esophagus. The risk of malignant transformation is determined primarily in accordance with the degree of dysplastic alterations of the mucosa. Indication of "preventive" extirpation of the esophagus should be supported by other factors, for example by detection of p53 mutation or expression. The study reports on the evaluation of a group of 20 patients with Barrett's esophagus treated at the 1st Department of Surgery, the p53 level and its correlation with histological findings evaluated in these patients. A good correlation was found between the grade of Barrett's esophagus dysplasia and high p53 positivity. This correlation was also confirmed by detection of early carcinoma in patients with "preventive" extirpation of the esophagus due to a high-grade dysplasia. Preliminary results show that examination of p53 level in specimens taken from the esophageal mucosa may be helpful for the estimation of malignant potential of the dysplastic mucosa.

Does laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication prevent the progression of Barrett's oesophagus? Is the length of Barrett's a factor?

Introduction:

Recent studies have suggested that both laparoscopic and open anti-reflux surgery may produce regression of Barrett’s mucosa.

Material and methods;

We reviewed 21 patients (13M: 8F, mean age 46.7±3.18 years) with documented Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Non-dysplastic Barrett’s esophagus (15 patients ?3 cm segment, 6 patients < 3 cm segment) on long term proton pump inhibitor therapy who underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) between 1993 and 2000. All patients had undergone pre and yearly postoperative upper GI endoscopy with 4 quadrant biopsies every 2 cm. All patients also underwent pre- and 6 months postoperative 24-hr pH study, esophageal manometry, SF36, and GERD symptom score. The mean duration of GERD symptoms was 8.4±1.54 years pre-operative. The mean follow-up after surgery was 39±6.32 months.

Results:

Postoperatively, there was significant improvement in reflux symptom score (37.5 ± 3.98 points versus 8.7 ± 2.46 points, P = 0.0001), % acid reflux in 24 hr (26.5 ± 3.91% versus 2.1 ± 0.84%, P< 0.0001) and an increase in lower esophageal sphincter pressure (3.71 ± 1.08 mmHg versus 12.29 ± 1.34 mmHg, P = 0.0053). Complete or partial regression of Barrett’s mucosa occurred in 9 patients. All patients with complete regression had <4 cm segment of Barrett’s. Progression or cancer transformation was not observed in any of the patients.

Conclusion:

LNF in patients with Barrett’s oesophagus results in significant control of GERD symptoms. LNF can prevent progression of Barrett’s oesophagus and in patients with Barrett’s <4 cm may lead to complete regression.

The interplay between Helicobacter pylori, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, and intestinal metaplasia

Helicobacter pylori infection and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) account for most upper gastrointestinal pathologies with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. The interplay of both conditions is complex, in part intriguing, and has become a matter of debate because of conflicting results. The cardia is an area where both H pylori and abnormal GERD exert their damaging potential, inducing inflammation and its consequences, such as intestinal metaplasia. While the role of intestinal metaplasia within columnar lined epithelium (Barrett's oesophagus) in the context of GERD is well established as a risk for neoplasia development, the role of intestinal metaplasia at the cardia in the context of H pylori infection is unclear. A particular challenge is the distinction of intestinal metaplasia as a consequence of GERD or H pylori if both conditions are concomitant. Available data on this issue, including follow up of a small patient series, are presented, but more studies are required to shed light on this issue because they will help to identify those patients that need surveillance.

Histological inflammatory changes after surgery at the epithelium of the distal esophagus in patients with Barrett's esophagus: a comparison of two surgical procedures

There are many reports concerning the surgical treatment of patients with Barrett's esophagus, but very few focus on histological changes of inflammatory cells in squamous and columnar epithelium before and late after classic antireflux or acid suppression-duodenal diversion surgery. We evaluate the impact of these procedures in the presence of intestinal metaplasia, dysplasia and Helicobacter pylori in the columnar epithelium. Two groups of patients were studied, 37 subjected to classic antireflux and 96 to acid suppression-duodenal diversion operations. They were subjected to endoscopic and histological studies before and at 1, 3 and more than 5 years after surgery. Manometric evaluations and 24 h pH monitoring were performed before and at 1 year after surgery. The presence of inflammatory cells at both the squamous and columnar epithelium was significantly higher at the late follow up in patients subjected to classic antireflux surgery compared with patients subjected to acid suppression-duodenal diversion operations (P < 0.02 and P < 0.001, respectively). Intestinal metaplasia, present in 100% of patients before surgery, had decreased significantly at 3 years after surgery in patients subjected to acid suppression-duodenal diversion operations compared with classic antireflux procedures, 75% versus 53%, respectively (P < 0.001). The presence of Helicobacter pylori did not vary before or after surgery in either group. In conclusion, acid suppression-duodenal diversion operations are followed by a decreased presence of inflammatory cells in both squamous and columnar epithelium compared with classic antireflux surgery in patients with Barrett's esophagus. Intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia and inflammation findings were also less common after acid suppression-duodenal diversion operation.

Long-term clinical and pathologic response of Barrett's esophagus after antireflux surgery

BACKGROUND

The impact of antireflux surgery on outcome in Barrett's esophagus, in particular its effect on both the regression of metaplasia and the progression of metaplasia through dysplasia to adenocarcinoma, remains unclear. This long-term follow-up study evaluated clinical, endoscopic, histopathologic, and physiologic parameters in patients with Barrett's esophagus who underwent antireflux surgery in a specialist unit.

METHODS

Between 1985 and 2001, 58 patients with Barrett's esophagus (49 long-segment and 9 short-segment) underwent a Rossetti-Nissen fundoplication, 32 via open procedure and 26 laparoscopically. Symptomatic follow-up with a detailed questionnaire was available in 58 (100%) and follow-up endoscopy and histology in 57 (98%) patients, and 41 patients (71%) underwent preoperative and postoperative 24-hour pH monitoring.

RESULTS

At a median follow-up of 59 months, 52 patients (90%) had excellent symptom control, whereas 6 patients (10%) had significant recurrent symptoms and were on regular proton pump inhibitor medication. Seventeen of 41 patients having preoperative and postoperative pH monitoring (41%) had a persistent increase of acid reflux above normal. Thirty-five percent (20 of 57) of patients showed either partial or complete regression of Barrett's epithelium. Six of 8 patients with preoperative low-grade dysplasia showed evidence of regression. Dysplasia developed after surgery in 2 patients, and 2 patients developed adenocarcinoma at 4 and 7 years after surgery. All 4 of these patients had abnormal postoperative acid scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Nissen fundoplication provides excellent long-lasting relief of symptoms in patients with Barrett's esophagus and may promote regression of metaplasia and dysplasia. Control of symptoms does not concord fully with abolition of acid reflux. Progression of Barrett's to dysplasia and tumor was only evident in patients with abnormal postoperative acid scores, suggesting that pH monitoring has an important role in the follow-up of surgically treated patients.

Adenocarcinoma appearing very late after antireflux surgery for Barrett's esophagus: long-term follow-up, review of the literature, and addition of six patients

Antireflux surgery is supposed to prevent the development of adenocarcinoma in patients with Barrett's esophagus. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of adenocarcinoma late after antireflux surgery. A total of 161 patients with long-segment Barrett's esophagus had antireflux surgery and were followed for a mean of 148 months (range 54 to 268 months) Clinical, endoscopic, histologic, and functional studies were performed. Of the original 161 patients, 147(91.3%) completed long-term follow-up. Six patients (4.1%) developed adenocarcinoma 4,5,6,9,17, and 18 years, respectively, after surgery. Five were men. Two of them were asymptomatic for 12 and 17 years. Three of them had extra-long-segment Barrett's esophagus. Five underwent manometric evaluation with only one showing an incompetent lower esophageal sphincter. In two cases, 24-hour pH studies showed massive acid reflux. Two patients had early adenocarcinoma, whereas four had advanced carcinoma. Adenocarcinoma in long-segment Barrett's esophagus seems to develop mainly in patients with recurrence of pathologic reflux, especially among men. A review of the English language literature during the last 23 years found 25 articles dealing with Barrett's esophagus and antireflux surgery. Most of these reports had only a few patients with short-term follow-up (<60 months). To determine the true prevalence of this complication, a long-term objective follow-up is necessary.

Chronology of the Barrett's metaplasia-dysplasia-carcinoma sequence

The objective of this study was to assess the course over time of the Barrett's metaplasia-dysplasia-carcinoma sequence. The method used was a retrospective analysis of the medical records of a patient series with a median follow-up of 25 months. The study was undertaken in a university hospital foregut laboratory. The progress of seven patients was followed through the sequence of Barrett's esophagus, low-grade dysplasia and high-grade dysplasia to cancer. They all underwent subsequent esophagectomy and were found to have intramucosal adenocarcinoma. The main outcome measure was the time from the first diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia to the development of low-grade dysplasia, high-grade dysplasia and adenocarcinoma. Low-grade dysplasia developed in a median of 24 months, high-grade dysplasia after a median of 33 months and cancer after 36 months. All patients underwent esophagectomy with reconstruction and no patient has had a recurrence at a median follow-up of 25 months (range 10-204 months). Patients on Barrett's surveillance who develop early esophageal adenocarcinoma did so within approximately 3 years after the diagnosis of non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus.

Surgical treatment of Barrett's esophagus: 1980-2003

Barrett's esophagus is a complication of long-standing gastroesophageal reflux and can be a premalignant condition. The goals of surgical treatment, which were well summarized by DeMeester, have been increased and more detailed by us. They consist of (1) controlling symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease; (2) abolishing acid and duodenal reflux into the esophagus; (3) preventing or eliminating the development of complications; (4) preventing extension of or an increase in the length of intestinal metaplasia; (5) inducing regression of intestinal metaplasia to the cardiac mucosa; and (6) preventing progression to dysplasia, thereby inducing regression of low-grade dysplasia and avoiding the appearance of an adenocarcinoma. We have reviewed 25 articles in the English-language literature published from 1980 to 2003 dealing specifically with the surgical treatment of Barrett's esophagus. In most of these papers too few patients were included, the follow-up was less than 60 months, and the clinical success deteriorated with time. Acid reflux persists after surgery in nearly 35% of Barrett's esophagus patients; and at 10 years after surgery duodenal reflux is present in 95%. Peptic ulcer, stricture, and erosive esophagitis are present in 15% to 30% late after surgery, and in 16% there is progression of the intestinal metaplasia. There is the appearance of low-grade dysplasia in 6.0% and adenocarcinoma in 3.4%, and there is regression of low-grade dysplasia in 45.0%. These results challenge the arguments supporting antireflux surgery for patients with Barrett's esophagus: The clinical results are not optimal, no long-lasting effect has been demonstrated, and it does not prevent the appearance of dysplasia or adenocarcinoma. An excellent alternative is acid suppression and a duodenal diversion procedure, which has had 91% clinical success for more than 5 years. This regimen has almost eliminated acid and duodenal reflux, and there has been no progression to dysplasia or adenocarcinoma. Moreover, in 60% of the patients with low-grade dysplasia, regression to nondysplastic mucosa has occurred.

Prospective randomized controlled trial of argon plasma coagulation ablation vs. endoscopic surveillance of patients with Barrett's esophagus after antireflux surgery

BACKGROUND

Argon plasma coagulation is one of several techniques used to ablate Barrett's esophagus. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of argon plasma coagulation in the ablation of Barrett's esophagus in patients who have undergone antireflux surgery.

METHODS

A total of 40 patients with Barrett's esophagus who had undergone a fundoplication were entered into a prospective, randomized, unblinded study comparing argon plasma coagulation with endoscopic surveillance. Treatment was repeated until either no Barrett's epithelium remained or a maximum of 6 treatment sessions.

RESULTS

One month after the final treatment, complete ablation was achieved in 12 patients. In the remaining 8, a reduction of over 95% was observed. One patient died at 9 months of an unrelated cause. At 1 year, one patient with residual Barrett's epithelium regressed completely, while relapse of Barrett's esophagus was seen in another because of fundoplication failure. Buried glands were observed in 35% patients at 1 month, but only 5% at 1 year. Dysplasia was never seen. In the surveillance group, partial regression was observed in 11 patients, and, in 3 with short-segment Barrett's esophagus, regression was complete. The length of Barrett's esophagus increased in two patients. Two had low-grade dysplasia initially, but this was not evident at 1 year. Overall, complete ablation was achieved in 12 of 19 (63%) patients in the ablation group and 3 of 20 (15%) in the surveillance group (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Argon plasma coagulation of Barrett's esophagus is safe and effective. The effects are durable, and buried glands may resolve with time. Long-term follow-up is required to assess the impact of argon plasma coagulation on cancer risk.

Barrett's esophagus: combined treatment using argon plasma coagulation and laparoscopic antireflux surgery

The treatment of Barrett's esophagus is still controversial. Actually, the only method to prevent the development to cancer is endoscopic surveillance, which ensures good results in terms of long-term survival. An ideal treatment capable of destroying columnar metaplasia, followed by squamous epithelium regeneration could potentially result in a decrease of the incidence of adenocarcinoma. Recently most ablative techniques were used, such as photodynamic therapy, ablation therapy with Nd-YAG laser or argon plasma coagulation and endoscopic mucosal resection. We started a prospective study in January 1998, enrolling 94 patients affected by Barrett's esophagus and candidates for antireflux repair in order to assess the effectiveness and the results of endoscopic coagulation with argon plasma combined with surgery in the treatment of uncomplicated Barrett's esophagus. All patients underwent endoscopic treatment with argon plasma; we observed complete response in 68 patients (72.34%), 27 of them (39.7%) underwent antireflux surgery and the other 41 continued medical therapy. Post-operatively 19 patients (70%) underwent regular surveillance endoscopies and in two cases metaplasia recurred. The final objective of these combined treatments should be the complete eradication of metaplastic mucosa. Our experience was that argon plasma coagulation combined with antireflux surgery or proton pump inhibitor therapy gave satisfactory results, even if follow-up is too short to evaluate the potential evolution of metaplasia to cancer. For this reason, we recommend that this technique should be done only in specialized centres and that these patients continue their endoscopic surveillance program.

Clinical and pathologic response of Barrett's esophagus to laparoscopic antireflux surgery

BACKGROUND DATA

Patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE) are frequently offered laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS) to treat symptoms. The effectiveness of this operation with regards to symptoms and to the evolution of the columnar-lined epithelium remains controversial.

METHODS

We analyzed the course of 106 consecutive patients with BE who underwent LARS between 1994 and 2000, representing 14% of all LARS (754) performed in our institution during that period. All 106 patients agreed to clinical follow-up in 2002 at 40 months (median; range, 12-95 months). Fifty-three patients (50%) agreed to functional evaluation (manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring); 90 patients (85%) to thorough endoscopy, with appropriate biopsies and histologic evaluation to determine the status of BE.

RESULTS

Heartburn improved in 94 (96%) of 98 and resolved in 69 patients (70%) after LARS. Regurgitation improved in 58 (84%) of 69 and dysphagia improved in 27 (82%) of 33. Distal esophageal acid exposure improved in 48 (91%) of 53 patients tested and returned to normal in 39 patients (74%). One patient underwent reoperation 2 days after fundoplication (gastric perforation). Preoperatively, biopsy revealed BE without dysplasia in 91 patients, BE indefinite for dysplasia in 12 patients, and low-grade dysplasia in 3 patients. Fifty-four of the 90 patients with endoscopic follow-up had short-segment BE (<3cm), and 36 had long-segment BE (>3cm) preoperatively. Postoperatively, endoscopy and pathology revealed complete regression of intestinal metaplasia (absence of any sign suggestive of BE) in 30 (55%) of 54 patients with short-segment BE but in 0 of 36 of those with long-segment BE. Among patients with complete regression, 89% of those tested with pH monitoring had normal esophageal acid exposure. This was observed in 69% of those who failed to have complete regression. One patient developed adenocarcinoma within 10 months of LARS.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with BE, LARS provides excellent control of symptoms and esophageal acid exposure. Moreover, intestinal metaplasia regressed in the majority of patients who had short-segment BE and normal pH monitoring following LARS, a fact that was, heretofore, not appreciated. LARS should be recommended to patients with BE to quell symptoms and to prevent the development of cancer.

Outcomes of dysplasia arising in Barrett's esophagus: a dynamic view

BACKGROUND

The management of dysplasia arising in Barrett's esophagus is controversial.

STUDY DESIGN

Twenty patients (group 1, prompt attitude) underwent operation as soon as high-grade dysplasia (HGD) was discovered (n = 8) or just after either the presence of HGD was confirmed (n = 9) or invasive carcinoma (IC) was found (n = 3) in a second set of biopsy samples taken soon after HGD had been discovered. In contrast, esophagectomy in 13 patients (group 2, expectant attitude) was performed only because HGD persisted (n = 4) or turned into IC (n = 4) at endoscopic followup (7 to 23 months) (subgroup 2a, n = 8) or because HGD (n = 2) or low-grade dysplasia (LGD) (n = 3) was disregarded until dysphagia and IC developed (12 to 70 months) (subgroup 2b, n = 5). Skeletonizing en-bloc esophagectomy was performed in 29 patients and four patients (three with HGD and one with mucosal IC in the resected specimen) underwent vagus-sparing esophagectomy.

RESULTS

Invasive carcinoma was found in 11 of 24 patients (45.8%) supposed to have only HGD (in repeat biopsies in 3 patients from group 1 and in the resected specimen in eight of 21 patients (38%) operated on for HGD. Metastatic lymph nodes were found in the resected specimen of seven patients (group 1: one of 20 or 5%, versus subgroup 2a: two of eight or 25%, versus subgroup 2b: four of five or 80%; p = 0.001). Unlike none of the 26 patients (0%) with an intramural process, five of the seven patients (71.4%) with an extramural process (one had had disregarded LGD) developed neoplastic recurrence at followup (p < 0.0001). Cancer-related survival in the long term was 100% in group 1 versus 52.5% in group 2 (p = 0.0094).

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive carcinoma is present in almost one half of patients with HGD within a Barrett's area. Promptness in the decision regarding an esophageal resection as soon as HGD is found is much safer than expectant observation. Not enrolling a patient with LGD in an endoscopic surveillance program can lead to the development of extramural IC with poor outcomes.

Surgical therapies in Barrett's esophagus

The two main aspects relevant to the role of surgery in the management of patients with Barrett's esophagus are to define the role of surgery in controlling reflux and associated symptoms and to define the surgical options in case of dysplasia or early neoplasia. This article also will address the issue of whether complete reflux control in patients with Barrett's esophagus can prevent the metaplastic mucosa from further progression to dysplasia and adenocarcinoma.

Barrett's esophagus can and does regress after antireflux surgery: a study of prevalence and predictive features

BACKGROUND

To investigate the factors leading to histologic regression of metaplastic and dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (BE).

STUDY DESIGN

The study sample consisted of 91 consecutive patients with symptomatic Barrett's esophagus. Pre- and posttreatment endoscopic biopsies from 77 Barrett's patients treated surgically and 14 treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPI) were reviewed. An expert pathologist confirmed the presence of intestinal metaplasia (IM) with or without dysplasia. Posttreatment histology was classified as having regressed if two consecutive biopsies taken more than 6 months apart plus all subsequent biopsies showed loss of IM or loss of dysplasia. Clinical factors associated with regression were studied by multivariate analysis, as was the time course of its occurrence.

RESULTS

Histopathologic regression occurred in 28 of 77 patients (36.4%) after antireflux surgery and in 1 of 14 patients (7.1%) treated with PPIs alone (p < 0.03). After surgery, regression from low-grade dysplastic to nondysplastic BE occurred in 17 of 25 patients (68%) and from IM to no IM in 11 of 52 (21.2%). Both types of regression were significantly more common in short (< 3 cm) than long (> 3 cm) segment Barrett's esophagus; 19 of 33 (58%) and 9 of 44 (20%) patients, respectively (p = 0.0016). Eight patients progressed, five from IM alone to low-grade dysplasia and three from low- to high-grade dysplasia. All those who progressed had long segment BE. On multivariate analysis, presence of short segment Barrett's and type of treatment were significantly associated with regression; age, gender, surgical procedure, and preoperative lower esophageal sphincter and pH characteristics were not. The median time of biopsy-proved regression was 18.5 months after surgery, with 95% occurring within 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This study refutes the widely held assumption that once established, Barrett's esophagus does not change. More than one-third of patients with visible segments of Barrett's esophagus undergo histologic regression after antireflux surgery. Regression is dependent on the length of the columnar-lined esophagus and time of followup after antireflux surgery.

Antireflux surgery for Barrett's oesophagus

Barrett's oesophagus is usually the result of severe reflux disease. Relief of reflux symptoms is the primary aim of treatment in patients with Barrett's oesophagus who do not have high-grade dysplasia. Some studies with medium-term (2-5 years) follow up show that antireflux surgery can provide good or excellent symptom control, with normal oesophageal acid exposure, in more than 90% of patients with Barrett's oesophagus. Antireflux surgery, but not medical therapy, can also reduce duodenal nonacid reflux to normal levels. There is no conclusive evidence that antireflux surgery can prevent the development of dysplasia or cancer, or that it can reliably induce regression of dysplasia, and patients with Barrett's oesophagus should therefore remain in a surveillance programme after operation. Some data suggest that antireflux surgery can prevent the development of intestinal metaplasia (IM) in patients with reflux disease but no IM. The combination of antireflux surgery plus an endoscopic ablation procedure is a promising treatment for patients with Barrett's oesophagus with low-grade dysplasia.

Barrett's esophagus without esophageal stricture does not increase the rate of failure of Nissen fundoplication

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether the presence of Barrett's esophagus (BE) modifies the results of Nissen fundoplication.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Some authors consider that BE, whether or not there is associated stricture, significantly increases the failure rate of standard antireflux surgery; they recommend using different and more aggressive surgical procedures in all patients with BE.

METHODS

One hundred seventy-seven patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease, without esophageal stricture, were included in a retrospective study. Patients were divided into two groups: those with BE (n = 57) and those without BE (n = 120). Nissen fundoplication was performed in all patients by the same surgical team. Clinical, endoscopic, and functional (manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring) results in the two study groups were compared.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 5 years (range 1-18) in the BE group and 6 years (range 1-18) in the non-BE group, the rate of clinical recurrence was 8% in the BE group and 10% in the non-BE group, with no statistically significant difference. The rate of pH-metric recurrence was the same in both groups (15%).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of BE without esophageal stricture does not increase the rate of failure of Nissen fundoplication.

Relationship of gastroesophageal reflux disease with adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus and cardia

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have suggested that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) increases the risk of developing adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus and cardia. In order to further define this risk, we studied the relationship of GERD in patients with or without gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinomas.

METHODS

The records of all patients with adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus and cardia treated between 1991 and 1999 were reviewed for the following data: gender, age of diagnosis, presence of GERD, presence of GERD for >4 years, and GERD treatment. A control group of patients without gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma were matched for age and gender. Data obtained from the control group included presence of GERD and treatment for GERD.

RESULTS

60 patients with adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus and cardia were identified. 40% of cancer patients had GERD at the time of diagnosis, (odds ratio 39, p < 0.0001). 27% of cancer patients had GERD for >4 years (odds ratio 21, p < 0.0001). 50% of cancer patients with GERD were being treated with either H(2)-blockers or proton pump inhibitors at the time of cancer diagnosis, with an average duration of treatment of 17 months, compared to none of the patients without GERD (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma had a higher prevalence of GERD-like symptoms compared to age- and gender-matched controls. This supports an association between GERD and gastroesophageal junction cancers. In addition, cancer patients with GERD may be treated for prolonged periods of time with acid-suppression medication prior to the diagnosis of cancer, masking the symptoms of cancer. Patients with long-standing GERD or older patients with new onset GERD may need endoscopy or imaging studies to evaluate for cancer of the distal esophagus or cardia.

Short esophagus: literature incidence

There are controversies regarding existence and incidence of short esophagus. The authors reviewed the literature incidence of short esophagus among operated patients due to gastroesophageal reflux disease in the last 3 years. The overall incidence of short esophagus was 1.53%. The proposed risk factors (paraesophageal hernia, Barrett's esophagus, reoperation, esophageal strictures and access route) do have a higher incidence of short esophagus, with the exception of the Barrett's esophagus. Although several biases can be associated with the review, the authors identified the short esophagus incidence in the literature.