USE OF SHORT NEEDLE KNIFE FOR ESOPHAGEAL ENDOSCOPIC SUBMUCOSAL DISSECTION

Efficacy of the specialized scissor-type knife for gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection: a propensity score matched retrospective study

Background and study aims  Prevention of bleeding and perforation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is important. Scissor-type knives can accurately grasp and incise the targeted tissue using electrosurgical currents, thereby eliminating unexpected incisions. The SB Knife GX, a scissor-type knife specialized for gastric ESD, was released in June 2016 in Japan. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of gastric ESD using the SB Knife GX. Patients and methods  A total of 716 patients who underwent gastric ESD at Hiroshima University Hospital between July 2016 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. From these, 671 patients underwent ESD using the IT Knife 2 (IT-2 group), while 45 underwent ESD using an SB Knife GX (SB-GX group). After propensity score matching, the procedure time, specimen size, en bloc and complete resection rates, and intraoperative bleeding, delayed bleeding, and perforation rates were evaluated. Results  No significant differences were observed in mean procedure time (SB-GX group: 115 ± 165 min; IT-2 group: 95 ± 61 min; P  = 0.82) and en bloc and complete resection rates between the two groups. Intraoperative bleeding rates were significantly lower in the SB-GX group than in the IT-2 group (18 % vs. 40 %; P  = 0.01), and there were no differences in delayed bleeding (4 % vs. 4 %) or perforation (0 % vs. 4 %) between the two groups. Conclusions  The SB Knife GX was proven to be useful for control of intraoperative bleeding during gastric ESD, although the procedure time tended to be longer.

Comparison of Needle Knife versus Scissors Forceps for Colorectal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection: A Prospective Randomized Study

Background and Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a grasping-type knife, called Clutch Cutter (CC), for colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (C-ESD). Methods: This was a randomized prospective study. Patients who underwent C-ESD for colorectal neoplasms >20 mm and <50 mm in size were enrolled, dividing into two groups: ESD using needle type of dual knife alone (D-group) and circumferential incision using dual knife followed by submucosal dissection using CC (CC-group). The primary outcome was the self-completion rate. The secondary outcomes were intraoperative complication rate, procedure time, and en bloc resection rate. Results: A total of 45 patients were allocated to the D-group and 43 to the CC-group were allocated. The self-completion rate was higher in the CC-group (87% [39/45] vs. 98% [42/43]). All of the six patients with an incomplete procedure in the D-group were completely resected with CC use. The intraoperative complication rate was not significant in either group (D vs. CC: 2% vs. 0%). The mean procedure time was significantly shorter in the D-group than that in the CC-group (62.0 vs. 81.1 min; p = 0.0036). The en bloc resection rate was 100% in the D-group and 98% in the CC-group. Conclusions: While dual knife use is superior to CC in terms of time efficiency, the use of CC may be a safe and efficacious option for achieving complete C-ESD.

Timing of pyloric stenosis and effectiveness of endoscopic balloon dilation after pyloric endoscopic submucosal dissection

BACKGROUND AND AIM

There have been studies on risk factors for stenosis after pyloric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). However, the most appropriate strategies for the management of cases with these risk factors have not been established. This study aimed to investigate post-ESD management by evaluating the timing of stenosis and the effectiveness of endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) after pyloric ESD.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed cases of pyloric ESD. We first reassessed risk factors for stenosis in multivariate analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve and defined patients with the identified risk factors as the risk group. The primary outcome was the timing of stenosis in the risk group assessed by the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

We reviewed 159 cases with pyloric ESD and observed pyloric stenosis in 25 cases. Cases with circumferential mucosal defect ≥ 76% were identified as the risk group. The stenosis-free probability in the risk group was 97% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 79-100%), 94% (95% CI: 76-98%), and 85% (95% CI: 66-93%) on days 7, 14, and 21, respectively. It decreased every week thereafter and did not significantly change after day 56. Twenty-three stenosis cases, except for conservative improvement, including six whole circumferential pyloric ESD cases, were improved by EBD without complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-ESD stenosis often developed from the third to the eighth week. In all pyloric ESD cases, including whole circumferential pyloric ESD cases, pyloric stenosis was improved following EBD without complications.

A Novel One-Step Knife Approach Can Reduce the Submucosal Injection Time of Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection: A Single-Blinded Randomized Multicenter Clinical Trials

BACKGROUND/AIMS

: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a curative treatment modality for early gastric neoplasms; however, ESD can be a time-consuming process. To overcome this pitfall, we developed the one-step knife (OSK) approach, which combines an endoscopic knife and injection needle on a single sheath. We aimed to evaluate whether this approach could reduce the ESD procedure time.

METHODS

This single-blinded randomized multicenter trial at four tertiary hospitals from June 2019 to June 2020 included patients aged 19 to 85 years undergoing ESD. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups (OSK or conventional knife [CK]). The injection time, total procedure time, resected specimen size, submucosal fluid amount, degree of device satisfaction, and adverse events were evaluated and compared between groups.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients were analyzed (OSK: 25 patients and CK: 26 patients). No baseline differences were observed between groups, with the exception of a higher portion of males in the OSK group. The mean injection time was significantly reduced in the OSK group (39.0 seconds) compared to that in the CK group (87.5 seconds, p<0.001). A decrease of more than 10 minutes in the total procedure time (18.0 minutes vs 28.1 minutes, p=0.055) in the OSK group compared to the CK group was observed. Second-look esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed two delayed bleeding cases in the OSK group that were easily controlled by endoscopic hemostasis.

CONCLUSIONS

OSK reduced the injection time and showed a decrease in total procedure time compared with the CK approach. OSK can be a feasible tool for ESD, especially in difficult cases.

Learning Curve for Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection With an Untutored, Prevalence-Based Approach in the United States

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is widely used in Asia to resect early-stage gastrointestinal neoplasms, but use of ESD in Western countries is limited. We collected data on the learning curve for ESD at a high-volume referral center in the United States to guide development of training programs in the Americas and Europe.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of consecutive ESDs performed by a single operator at a high-volume referral center in the United States from 2009 through 2017. ESD was performed in 540 lesions: 449 mucosal (10% esophageal, 13% gastric, 5% duodenal, 62% colonic, and 10% rectal) and 91 submucosal. We estimated case volumes required to achieve accepted proficiency benchmarks (>90% for en bloc resection and >80% for histologic margin-negative (R0) resection) and resection speeds >9cm²/hr.

RESULTS

Pathology analysis of mucosal lesions identified 95 carcinomas, 346 premalignant lesions, and 8 others; the rate of en bloc resection increased from 76% in block 1 (50 cases) to a plateau of 98% after block 5 (250 cases). The rate of R0 resection improved from 45% in block 1 to >80% after block 5 (250 cases) and ∼95% after block 8 (400 cases). Based on cumulative sum analysis, approximately 170, 150, and 280 ESDs are required to consistently achieve a resection speed >9cm²/hr in esophagus, stomach, and colon, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In an analysis of ESDs performed at a large referral center in the United States, we found that an untutored, prevalence-based approach allowed operators to achieve all proficiency benchmarks after ∼250 cases. Compared with Asia, ESD requires more time to learn in the West, where the untutored, prevalence-based approach requires resection of challenging lesions, such as colon lesions and previously manipulated lesions, in early stages of training.

Water-pocket endoscopic submucosal dissection for superficial gastric neoplasms (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

During endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), a clear view is essential for precise dissection of the appropriate submucosal layer. Some advantages have been reported for underwater techniques of endoscopic resection in comparison with the gas insufflation method. We have developed a new ESD method with the creation of a local water pocket (WP) that provides a clear view in the dissection field. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the feasibility and safety of WP-ESD for superficial gastric neoplasms.

METHODS

We prospectively recruited 50 patients with gastric neoplasms (early gastric cancer or gastric adenomas) between April 2017 and December 2017. Among them, 48 patients were treated with the WP-ESD technique. The patients undergoing WP-ESD were compared with 48 patients treated with standard ESD (S-ESD) who were selected by propensity score matching. The primary outcome was the ESD procedure time.

RESULTS

Total procedure time was significantly shorter in the WP-ESD group than in the S-ESD group (median [interquartile range], 27.5 [19-45] minutes vs 41 [29.8-69] minutes; P < .001). Similarly, the dissection speed was significantly greater in the WP-ESD group than in the S-ESD group (median [interquartile range], 22.5 [16.8-35.3] mm²/min vs 17.3 [12.7-22.1] mm²/min; P < .001). The rates of complete en bloc resection in the WP-ESD group and the S-ESD group were 97.9% and 95.8%, respectively (P > .99). There were no perforations in either group.

CONCLUSION

WP-ESD was associated with a shorter procedure time than S-ESD. WP-ESD may provide an alternative method for resection of superficial gastric neoplasms. (Clinical trial registration number: UMIN 000030266.).

Proper muscle layer damage affects ulcer healing after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is the established therapy for superficial gastrointestinal neoplasms. However, management of the artificial ulcers associated with ESD has become important and the relationship between ulcer healing factors and treatment is still unclear. We aimed to evaluate ESD-related artificial ulcer reduction ratio at 4 weeks to assess factors associating with ulcer healing after ESD that may lead to optimal treatment.

METHODS

Between January 2009 and December 2013, a total of 375 lesions fulfilled the expanded criteria for ESD. We defined ulcer reduction rate <90% as (A) poor-healing group; and rate ≥90% as (B) well-healing group. After exclusion, 328 lesions were divided into two groups and analyzed. These two groups were compared based on clinicopathological/endoscopic features, concomitant drugs, and treatment.

RESULTS

Ulcer reduction rate was significantly correlated with factors related to the ESD procedure (i.e. procedure time, submucosal fibrosis, and injury of the proper muscle layer, in univariate analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that submucosal fibrosis (F2) (P = 0.03; OR, 16.46; 95% CI, 1.31-206.73) and injury of the proper muscle layer (P = 0.01; OR, 4.27; 95% CI, 2.04-8.92) were statistically significant predictors of delayed healing.

CONCLUSION

This single-center retrospective study indicated that ESD-induced artificial ulcer healing was affected by submucosal fibrosis and injury of the proper muscle layer, which induced damage to the muscle layer. Therefore, the preferable pharmacotherapy can be determined on completion of the ESD procedure.

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) with Additional Therapy for Superficial Esophageal Cancer with Submucosal Invasion

OBJECTIVE

The standard treatment for submucosal esophageal cancer is esophagectomy or chemoradiotherapy (CRT). However, these treatment modalities could deteriorate the general condition and quality of life of the patients who are intolerant to invasive therapy. It is therefore important and beneficial to develop less invasive treatment protocols for these patients.

METHODS

The study included 43 patients who were clinically suspected of mucosa or submucosal esophageal cancer but underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) as a primary treatment, due to the patients' poor performance statuses and/or preferences for less invasive therapy. According to the pathological findings and patient's general condition, whether the patient underwent additional treatments or remained hospitalized without additional treatments was thereafter decided for each patient. We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of these patients.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients underwent additional surgery, 11 patients underwent CRT/radiation therapy (RT) and 17 patients were followed without additional treatments. During the 3-year follow-up period, the relapse-free survival rates in the patients who received or did not receive additional treatments were 88% and 64%, respectively (95% confidence interval, 0.45-0.76, p=0.04). The relapse-free and overall survival rates in the patients with additional treatments were equivalent or superior to those described in previous reports of the standard treatments. Preceding ESD contributed to reduce the local relapse significantly to approximately 3.5% and additional CRT-related toxicities.

CONCLUSION

Preceding ESD is very effective for the local control of cancer, and useful for histologically confirming the high-risk factors of relapse, such as ≥submucosal layer 2 (SM2) invasion and lymphovascular involvements. ESD with additional therapy may be a promising strategy for optimizing the selection of therapy depending on the patient's general condition.

Electrocautery for ESD: settings of the electrical surgical unit VIO300D

An electrical surgical unit (ESU) performs incisions and coagulation through applying Joule heat, generated by a high-frequency current onto tissue without neuromuscular stimulation. Output by the ESU includes incision output and coagulation output. Incision output is needed to generate a steam explosion (spark) by quickly increasing the intracellular fluid temperature through continuous application of Joule heat generated by the high-frequency current (unmodulated pulse: continuous wave). To perform safe and successful endoscopic submucosal dissection, one must fully understand the principles and features of an ESU to use settings that match the device and to adjust the settings appropriately for each situation.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection using a carbon dioxide laser with submucosally injected laser absorber solution (porcine model)

BACKGROUND

Recently, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been performed to treat early gastric cancer. The en bloc resection rate of ESD has been reported to be higher than that of conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), and ESD can resect larger lesions than EMR. However, ESD displays a higher complication rate than conventional EMR. Therefore, the development of devices that would increase the safety of ESD is desired. Lasers have been extensively studied as a possible alternative to electrosurgical tools. However, laser by itself easily resulted in perforation upon irradiation of the gastrointestinal tract. We hypothesized that performing ESD using a CO2 laser with a submucosal laser absorber could be a safe and simple treatment for early gastric cancer. To provide proof of concept regarding the feasibility of ESD using a CO2 laser with submucosally injected laser absorber solution, an experimental study in ex vivo and in vivo porcine models was performed.

METHODS

Five endoscopic experimental procedures using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser were performed in a resected porcine stomach. In addition, three endoscopic experimental procedures using a CO2 laser were performed in living pigs.

RESULTS

In the ex vivo study, en bloc resections were all achieved without perforation and muscular damage. In addition, histological evaluations could be performed in all of the resected specimens. In the in vivo study, en bloc resections were achieved without perforation and muscular damage, and uncontrollable hemorrhage did not occur during the procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic submucosal dissection using a CO2 laser with a submucosal laser absorber is a feasible and safe method for the treatment of early gastric cancer.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for gastric neoplasm in patients with co-morbidities categorized according to the ASA Physical Status Classification

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has come to be widely performed for reduced invasiveness; however, its safety in patients with co-morbidities is not fully examined. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of gastric ESD with co-morbidities categorized according to ASA Physical Status Classification.

METHODS

Two hundred and forty patients of ASA 1 (no co-morbidities), 268 of ASA 2 (mild), and 19 of ASA 3 (severe) were treated by ESD for gastric neoplasms. We retrospectively compared clinicopathological features and treatment results of these three groups.

RESULTS

Cases (by percent) treated with anticoagulant/platelet agents were more common in the higher ASA grades (ASA 1, 5.8%; ASA 2, 29.1%; ASA 3, 31.6%; P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in case numbers treated under guideline criteria, curative resection (ASA 1, 79.6%; ASA 2, 79.9%; ASA 3, 78.9%), or complications related to the ESD procedure (e.g., postoperative bleeding, perforation, thermal injury). By a patient risk prediction model on surgery, i.e., P-POSSUM, morbidity was halved, and no patients died compared to a predicted death rate of 0.5-2%; however, total and complications unrelated to ESD procedure (e.g., aspiration pneumonia, ischemic heat attack) were more common in higher ASA grades (ASA 1, ASA 2, ASA 3: 15.4, 23.9, 26.3%, respectively, P = 0.014; 0.4, 7.1, 0%, respectively, P = 0.00087). Deviation rates from clinical pathway were more frequent and hospital stay (days) longer in higher ASA grades (ASA 1, ASA 2, ASA 3: 11.3, 17.9, 26.3%, respectively, P = 0.014; 8, 8, 9%, respectively, P = 0.0053).

CONCLUSIONS

ESD is an efficient treatment for gastric neoplasms with co-morbidities. However, additional caution is required because co-morbidity is a risk factor for both total complications and complications unrelated to the ESD procedure, and may cause deviations in the clinical course and prolonged hospital stay.

Avanços na abordagem do carcinoma precoce de esôfago

Nos países ocidentais, o carcinoma de células escamosas de esôfago (CCE) geralmente é detectado em estágio avançado, quando as possibilidades de cura são remotas e o prognóstico reservado. Entretanto, nos anos recentes, ocorreu uma série de avanços na abordagem do CCE de esôfago, tais como a identificação dos grupos de risco para o surgimento desta neoplasia; o uso da endoscopia de alta resolução e cromoendoscopia com lugol favorecendo o diagnóstico do CCE em estágios iniciais; e o desenvolvimento de técnicas endoscópicas de ressecção tumoral endoluminal em monobloco denominada dissecção endoscópica de submucosa. Este progresso tem possibilitado a aplicação do tratamento endoscópico minimamente invasivo com potencial curativo em pacientes selecionados com CCE superficial de esôfago. O presente artigo de revisão, elaborado por um grupo multicêntrico internacional, tem como objetivo primário contribuir para o entendimento dos principais avanços recentes ocorridos no manejo do CCE precoce de esôfago. Como objetivo secundário, pretende propiciar uma revisão detalhada e minuciosa da estratégia técnica de DES desenvolvida pelos experts japoneses, de forma a colaborar para a difusão deste conceito e a incorporação destas tecnologias na Medicina Brasileira e Latino-americana.

Principles of quality controlled endoscopic submucosal dissection with appropriate dissection level and high quality resected specimen

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has enabled en bloc resection of early stage gastrointestinal tumors with negligible risk of lymph node metastasis, regardless of tumor size, location, and shape. However, ESD is a relatively difficult technique compared with conventional endoscopic mucosal resection, requiring a longer procedure time and potentially causing more complications. For safe and reproducible procedure of ESD, the appropriate dissection of the ramified vascular network in the level of middle submucosal layer is required to reach the avascular stratum just above the muscle layer. The horizontal approach to maintain the appropriate depth for dissection beneath the vascular network enables treatment of difficult cases with large vessels and severe fibrosis. The most important aspect of ESD is the precise evaluation of curability. This approach can also secure the quality of the resected specimen with enough depth of the submucosal layer.

1,635 Endoscopic submucosal dissection cases in the esophagus, stomach, and colorectum: complication rates and long-term outcomes

Background

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) enables en bloc resection of early gastrointestinal neoplasms; however, most ESD articles report small series, with short-term outcomes performed by multiple operators on single organ. We assessed short- and long-term treatment outcomes following ESD for early neoplasms throughout the gastrointestinal tract.

Methods

We performed a longitudinal cohort study in single tertiary care referral center. A total of 1,635 early gastrointestinal neoplasms (stomach 1,136; esophagus 138; colorectum 361) were treated by ESD by single operator. Outcomes were complication rates, en bloc R0 resection rates, and long-term overall and disease-specific survival rates at 3 and 5 years for both guideline and expanded criteria for ESD.

Results

En bloc R0 resection rates were: stomach: 97.1 %; esophagus: 95.7 %; colorectum: 98.3 %. Postoperative bleeding and perforation rates respectively were: stomach: 3.6 and 1.8 %; esophagus: 0 and 0 %; colorectum: 1.7 and 1.9 %. Intra criteria resection rates were: stomach: 84.9 %; esophagus: 81.2 %; colorectum: 88.6 %. Three-year survival rates for lesions meeting Japanese ESD guideline/expanded criteria were for all organ-combined: 93.4/92.7 %. Five-year rates were: stomach: 88.1/84.6 %; esophagus: 81.6/57.3 %; colorectum: 94.3/100 %. Median follow-up period was 53.4 (range, 0.07–98.6) months. Follow-up rate was 94 % (1,020/1,085). There was no recurrence or disease-related death.

Conclusions

In this large series by single operator, ESD was associated with high curative resection rates and low complication rates across the gastrointestinal tract. Disease-specific and overall long-term prognosis for patients with lesions within intra criteria after curative resection appeared to be excellent.

[Endoscopic submucosal dissection in our practice -- new possibilities in the endoscopic treatment of neoplastic changes in the alimentary canal]

Endoscopic submucosal dissection is a promising new endoscopic technique for en block resection of early, superficial, flat, and laterally spreading gastrointestinal neoplasms. The primary aims of this prospective study were to summarize the first Hungarian experience with endoscopic submucosal dissection, and to compare the experimental in vivo procedures in pigs with the human application of this technique in two academic centers.

METHODS

The ex vivo Erlangen pig model was used until initial competence was achieved. Thereafter 15 endoscopic submucosal dissection procedures were performed in up to 5 sessions in living pigs under general anesthesia. After submucosal injection with saline Fujinone ball tip, a Flush knife was used with a transparent hood for circumferential incision and submucosal dissection. The following variables were analyzed: specimen size, complete and en bloc resection rate, total duration of the procedure, and complications. Furthermore, between 2009 and 2012, 14 endoscopic submucosal dissections were carried out in humans; 1 duodenal, 3 gastric and 10 colorectal interventions were performed due to large laterally spreading intramucosal neoplasms. The specimen size, en bloc resection rate, total duration of the procedure and complications were next analyzed.

RESULTS

87% complete resection rate, 29.4 ± 19.5 cm2 specimen size and 136.2 ± 26.8 min of procedure duration were achieved in the live pig models. Nontransmural damages of the muscular layer occurred in 3/15 (20%) cases which were successfully closed with hemoclips, except in one pig that died due to fatal esophageal perforation. All bleedings were easily managed with hot biopsy forceps coagulation and hemoclips without hemodynamic instability. In humans, endoscopic submucosal dissection was accomplished with an 11/14 (79%) en block resection rate, with average resected specimen size of 11.56 ± 4.9 cm2 and with 157 ± 55 min of operating time. Two cases of bleeding and 2 cases of perforation occurred (14%), all of which were managed endoscopically. After 1.5 year of average follow up, local recurrence occurred in one case only. In addition, due to the 3 incomplete resections and unsuccessful endoscopic submucosal dissection, surgical intervention was required in 4 cases altogether.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the first Hungarian experience with endoscopic submucosal dissection. Training in live pig models could help endoscopists to overcome the learning curve and minimize the risk of complications before starting the procedure in humans. Reduction in the resection time and low risk of complications, especially bleeding, could be achieved by the application of a flush knife.

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Treatment of Patients Aged 75 Years and over with Esophageal Cancer

Background. Although many reports concerning the use of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for esophageal cancer have been published, the feasibility of ESD in elderly patients has not been reported. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of ESD for treating early esophageal cancer in elderly patients. Methods. A total of 62 cases (52 men, 10 women; mean age ± standard deviation, 66.5 ± 10.5 years) for which the first resection (first treatment) of esophageal cancer was performed by ESD were identified from 77 consecutive esophageal epithelial cancers in 67 patients treated at our institution from January 2005 to March 2011. Patient characteristics, clinical findings, and outcomes were retrospectively assessed for patients separated into older (aged 75 years and older) and younger (aged under 75 years) groups. Results. No significant differences in specimen size, procedure time, median length of the hospital stay (8 versus 9 days; P = 0.252) or procedure-associated complications (8% versus 27%; P = 0.264) were observed between the older (n = 13) and younger (n = 49) groups. Lesions were completely resected in 12 patients and 44 patients, in the younger and older groups, respectively, and the curative resection rate was 77% and 59%, respectively. There were no deaths attributable to procedure-associated complications. Conclusions. ESD is an effective treatment for early esophageal cancer and is well tolerated by elderly patients.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for removal of superficial gastrointestinal neoplasms: A technical review

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is now the most common endoscopic treatment in Japan for intramucosal gastrointestinal neoplasms (non-metastatic). ESD is an invasive endoscopic surgical procedure, requiring extensive knowledge, skill, and specialized equipment. ESD starts with evaluation of the lesion, as accurate assessment of the depth and margin of the lesion is essential. The devices and strategies used in ESD vary, depending on the nature of the lesion. Prior to the procedure, the operator must be knowledgeable about the treatment strategy(ies), the device(s) to use, the electrocautery machine settings, the substances to inject, and other aspects. In addition, the operator must be able to manage complications, should they arise, including immediate recognition of the complication(s) and its treatment. Finally, in case the ESD treatment is not successful, the operator should be prepared to apply alternative treatments. Thus, adequate knowledge and training are essential to successfully perform ESD.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for superficial esophageal squamous cell neoplasms

Endoscopic resection is an effective treatment for non-invasive esophageal squamous cell neoplasms (ESCNs). Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) has been developed for small localized ESCNs as an alternative to surgical therapy because it shows similar effectiveness and is less invasive than esophagectomy. However, EMR is limited in resection size and therefore piecemeal resection is performed for large lesions, resulting in an imprecise histological evaluation and a high frequency of local recurrence. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been developed in Japan as one of the standard endoscopic resection techniques for ESCNs. ESD enables esophageal lesions, regardless of their size, to be removed en bloc and thus has a lower local recurrence rate than EMR. The development of new devices and the establishment of optimal strategies for esophageal ESD have resulted in fewer complications such as perforation than expected. However, esophageal stricture after ESD may occur when the resected area is larger than three-quarters of the esophageal lumen or particularly when it encompasses the entire circumference; such a stricture requires multiple sessions of endoscopic balloon dilatation. Recently, oral prednisolone has been reported to be useful in preventing post-ESD stricture. In addition, a combination of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and ESD might be an alternative therapy for submucosal esophageal cancer that has a risk of lymph node metastasis because esophagectomy is extremely invasive; CRT has a higher local recurrence rate than esophagectomy but is less invasive. ESD is likely to play a central role in the treatment of superficial esophageal squamous cell neoplasms in the future.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for colonic lesions: why and how should we do it?

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a safe and effective alternative to surgery for large non-polypoid colonic lesions and early colorectal carcinoma. In this article, we discuss the development, efficacy and safety of ESD. As the incidence of colorectal cancer is rapidly increasing in Asia, we advocate standardization of ESD program, including patient selection, hardware prerequisites, and training of operators.

Mediastinal emphysema after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection: its prevalence and clinical significance

AIMS

To assess the prevalence and clinical significance of mediastinal emphysema (ME) after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD).

METHODS

A total of 105 patients in whom assessment of ME was prospectively carried out with multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) after esophageal ESD were included in this study. ME was graded as follows: Grade-0, no ME; Grade-I, bubbles around the esophagus; Grade-II, ME around the thoracic aorta; Grade-III, ME extending around the heart or beyond the mediastinum into the neck; and Grade-IV, ME with pneumothorax or subcutaneous emphysema. MDCT grading was compared with the finding of conventional chest X-ray images (CXR) and clinical symptoms.

RESULTS

CXR revealed the presence of ME in 6.6% of the subjects. On MDCT, ME was recognized in 62.9% (Grade-0, 37.1%; I, 46.7%; II, 10.5%; III, 5.7%; and IV, 0%), most (83.8%) being Grade-I or 0. CXR was able to visualize ME of Grade-II or greater. Exposure of the muscularis propria layer and location of the lesion were significant risk factors for development of ME of Grade-II or greater (P = 0.008 and P = 0.03, respectively). The duration of a fever of 37°C or higher was longer and the serum C-reactive protein level was higher in patients with a higher grade of ME.

CONCLUSIONS

MDCT revealed the occurrence of ME in 62.9% of the patients who had undergone esophageal ESD, most of which, however, was clinically silent. Exposure of the muscular layer during ESD and location of the lesion were independent risk factors for the development of ME.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection using a grasping-type scissors forceps for early gastric cancers and adenomas

AIM

To reduce the risk of complications related to endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) using knives, we developed a new grasping-type scissors forceps (GSF) that can grasp and incise the target tissue using electrosurgical current. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ESD using GSF for the removal of early gastric cancers and adenomas.

METHODS

ESD using GSF was carried out on 35 consecutive patients with early gastric cancers or adenomas who had preoperative EUS diagnoses of mucosal tumor without lymph node involvement. Therapeutic efficacy and safety were assessed.

RESULTS

All lesions were treated easily and safely without unexpected incision. The mean size of epithelial tumors and resected specimens was 15.6mm and 32.7mm, respectively. Curative en-bloc resection rates according to tumor size and location were 96% (26/27) in tumors ≤20mm, 100% (8/8) in tumors >20mm, 100% (18/18) of tumors in the lower portion, 100% (8/8) of tumors in the middle portion, 89% (8/9) of tumors in the upper portion, and 97% (34/35) overall. The mean operating time according to tumor size and location was 93.4min in tumors ≤20mm, 140min in tumors >20mm, 77.6min for tumors in the lower portion, 113.4min for tumors in the middle portion, 148.6min for tumors in the upper portion, and 104.1min overall. No intraoperative complication occurred, and postoperative bleeding was seen in 3% (1/35).

CONCLUSIONS

ESD using GSF allows simple and safe en-bloc resection of early gastric cancer or adenoma irrespective of tumor size and location.

Endoscopic treatment for early stage colorectal tumors: the comparison between EMR with small incision, simplified ESD, and ESD using the standard flush knife and the ball tipped flush knife

BACKGROUND

Early stage colorectal tumors can be removed by endoscopic mucosal resection but larger such tumors (20 mm) may require piecemeal resection. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) using newly developed endo-knives has enabled en-block resection of lesions regardless of size and shape. However ESD for colorectal tumor is technically difficult. Therefore, we performed EMR with small incision (EMR with SI) for more reliable EMR, ESD with snaring (simplified ESD) and ESD using the standard Flush knife and the novel ball tipped Flush knife (Flush knife BT) for easier and safer colorectal ESD.

AIMS

The aims of our study were (1) to compare the treatment results of the following 3 methods (EMR with SI/si-mplified ESD/ESD) for early stage colorectal tumors, and (2) to assess the performance of Flush knife BT in colorectal ESD.

METHODS

We treated 24/44/468 colorectal tumors and examined the clinicopathological features and treatment results such as tumor size, resected specimen size, procedure time, en-bloc resection rate, complication rate. We also treated 58 colorectal tumors (LST-NG:20, LST-G:36, other:2) using standard Flush knife and 80 colorectal tumors (LST-NG:32, LSTG:44, other:2) using Flush knife BT, and examined the clinicopathological features and treatment results mentioned above and also the procedure speed.

RESULT

The median tumor size (mm) (EMR with SI/ simplified EMR/ESD) was 20/17/30 (EMR with SI vs. simplified ESD: p = n.s, simplified ESD vs. ESD: p < 0.0001). The median resected specimen size (mm) was 22.5/26/41 (EMR with SI vs. simplified ESD: p = 0.0018, simplified ESD vs. ESD: p < 0.0001). The procedure time (min.) was 19/27/60 (EMR with SI vs. simplified ESD: p = n.s, simplified ESD vs. ESD: p < 0.0001) The en-block resection rate (%) was 83.3/90.9 /98.9. The complication rate (post-operative bleeding rate/perforation p=n.s). In the treatment results of ESD for LSTs by knives, there was no difference between standard Flush knife and Flush knife BT for clinicopathological features and treatment results (procedure time, complication rate and en bloc R0 resection rate). However, procedure speed (cm2/min.) of LST-G was significantly faster in the Flush knife BT than in standard Flush knife. (standard Flush knife: 0.21 vs. Flush knife BT: 0.27, p = 0.034).

CONCLUSION

EMR with small incision (EMR with SI) and ESD with snaring (simplified ESD) are good option to fill the gap between EMR and ESD in the colorectum, and also considered to become the nice training for the introduction of ESD. Flush knife BT appears to improve procedure speed compared with standard Flush knife, especially for LST-G in colo-rectal ESD.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) using the needle knife: its superiority to ESD using the insulation-tipped diathermic knife in physicians intending to master ESD

In the absence of a supervisor, we conducted endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) procedures using the needle-knife and insulation-tipped (IT) diathermic knives for 516 gastric neoplasms in 443 Japanese patients with the diseases. No significant difference was found between IT knife ESD and needle-knife ESD in en bloc resection rates with tumor-free margins (89.8% and 92.9% for IT knife ESD and needle-knife ESD, respectively) and perforation rates (2.2% and 4.6%, respectively). However, the mean procedure time was significantly (P<0.05) shorter in IT knife ESD than in needle-knife ESD (74 and 88 min, respectively) and reached a plateau after accumulating 120 cases of ESD in both procedures. We required a less number of ESD cases before being proficient at needle-knife ESD than in IT knife ESD (30 cases and 60 cases, respectively). Needle-knife ESD is recommended for physicians who intend to master ESD hereafter.

The performance of a novel ball-tipped Flush knife for endoscopic submucosal dissection: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) using short needle knives is safe and effective, but bleeding is a problem due to low haemostatic capability.

AIM

To assess the performance of a novel ball-tipped needle knife (Flush knife-BT) for ESD with particular emphasis on haemostasis.

METHODS

A case-control study to compare the performance for ESD of 30 pairs of consecutive early gastrointestinal lesions (oesophagus: 12, stomach: 32, colorectum: 16) with standard Flush knife (F) vs. Flush knife-BT (BT). Primary outcome was efficacy of intraprocedure haemostasis. Secondary outcomes included procedure time, procedure speed (dividing procedure time into the area of resected specimen), en bloc resection rate and recurrence rate.

RESULTS

Median intraoperative bleeding points and bleeding points requiring haemostatic forceps were smaller in the BT group than in the F group (4 vs. 8, P < 0.0001, 0 vs. 3, P < 0.0001). There was no difference between groups for procedure time; however, procedure speed was shorter in the BT group (P = 0.0078). En bloc and en bloc R0 resection rates were 100%, with no perforation or post-operative bleeding. No recurrence was observed in either group at follow-up 1 year postprocedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Ball-tipped Flush knife (Flush knife-BT) appears to improve haemostatic efficacy and dissection speed compared with standard Flush knife.

Surgical treatments for squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus reaching to the muscularis mucosa or the upper third of the submucosal layer

We studied the surgical treatments of patients with either esophageal cancer reaching to the muscularis mucosae (m3) or with a slight invasion of the submucosa (sm1). We reviewed the records and examined the clinicopathological features of 29 patients with m3 or sm1 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who had undergone surgery. Lymph node metastasis was noted in 6.3% (1 patient) of patients with m3 cancers and in 38.5% (5 patients) of those with sm1 cancers. The incidence of lymph node metastasis was higher in the sm1 than in the m3 group, but the difference was not significant. Lymphatic invasion (ly) was noted in 12.3% (2 patients) of patients with m3 cancers and in 53.8% (7 patients) of those with sm1 cancers. The incidence of ly was significantly higher in the sm1 group than in the m3 group (P<0.05). In a multivariate analysis of factors for predicting lymph node metastasis, the presence of ly was the only significant predictor (P<0.05). The preoperative diagnostic accuracies of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and an upper gastrointestinal series (UGS) for predicting depth of invasion were 27.8, 31.0 and 41.4%, respectively, with the majority of the misdiagnoses being overestimations. In conclusion, we suggested that ly is associated with lymph node metastasis in m3 or sm1 esophageal cancer. This association is significant for treatment-related decision making.

The first case of endoscopic submucosal dissection of cecal adenoma in Serbia

Endoscopic submucosal dissection is a therapeutic procedure for the removal of early stage gastrointestinal cancer. In 2006, we performed a colonic ESD in Serbia. ESD had never been performed until then in Serbia, nor do we have a written report, so this article is a document of the first performed procedure of this kind. On the 21st of October 2006, the patient was admitted to the General Hospital MC in Novi Sad for the performance of ESD of the cecal lesion. A flat-elevated type of lesion on the upper lip of ileocecal valve with a size of 8 mm was found on the colonoscopy. The adenoma was removed en bloc and prepared for further histopathological examination. Histopathological examination showed that the tumor was a "flat adenoma" of the colon mucosa with a low grade dysplasia. The procedure lasted for 30 minutes and went without complications. The first case of ESD in Serbia was performed in 2006, only four years after it was developed in Japan. To have more ESD cases in our country a screening program for detection of early cancers is needed as well as education of endoscopists in performing ESD.

The new resources of treatment for early stage colorectal tumors: EMR with small incision and simplified endoscopic submucosal dissection

INTRODUCTION

Early stage colorectal tumors can be removed by endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) but larger tumors (> or =20 mm) may require piecemeal resection. The development of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has enabled en-bloc resection of lesions regardless of size and shape. However ESD of colorectal tumor is technically difficult. As the resources, we perform EMR with small incision (EMR with SI) for more reliable EMR, and also ESD with snaring (simplified ESD) for easier and safer ESD. AIM & METHODS: The aim of the study was to retrospectively compare the treatment results of the following 3 methods (EMR with SI/ simplified ESD/ ESD). We treated 24/44/468 colorectal tumors, and examined the tumor size, resected specimen size, procedure time, en-bloc resection rate, complication rate.

RESULT

The median tumor size (mm) (EMR with SI/simplified EMR/ESD) was 20/17/30 (EMR with SI vs simplified ESD: P = n.s, simplified ESD vs ESD: P < 0.0001). The median resected specimen size (mm) was 22.5/26/41 (EMR with SI vs simplified ESD: P = 0.0018, simplified ESD vs ESD: P < 0.0001). The procedure time (min.) was 19/27/60 (EMR with SI vs simplified ESD: P = n.s, simplified ESD vs ESD: P < 0.0001) The en-bloc resection rate (%) was 83.3/90.9/98.9. The complication rate (post-operative bleeding rate/perforation rate) was 0/0, 2.3/4.5, 1.5/1.5 (simplified ESD vs ESD: P = n.s).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic mucosal resection with small incision (EMR with SI) and ESD with snaring (simplified ESD) are a good option to fill the differences between conventional EMR and ESD, and also considered to become nice steps to the introduction of ESD.

Novel technique of endoscopic submucosal dissection using an external grasping forceps for superficial gastric neoplasia

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early stage gastric cancer (EGC) has improved the success rate of en bloc resection but results in perforation more often than does endoscopic mucosal resection. We report a novel technique of ESD using an external grasping forceps. A total of 265 lesions with EGC or gastric adenoma were enrolled in this study. Sixteen lesions were located in the upper third portion of the stomach, 114 in the middle third portion, and 135 in the lower third portion. After submucosal injection followed by circumcision of the lesions with a flex knife, the external grasping forceps was introduced with the help of a second grasping forceps and anchored at the margin of the lesion. Oral traction applied with this forceps could elevate the lesion and make the submucosal layer wider and more visible, thereby facilitating dissection of the submucosal layer under direct vision. The mean lesion size was 15.0 mm (range: 5-50 mm). All but 11 lesions (95.8%) could be resected en bloc with free margins. Mean procedure time was 45 min (range: 20-180 min). It was difficult to carry out this procedure when the lesions were located in the cardia, lesser curvature, or posterior wall of the upper third of the gastric body. Bleeding after ESD occurred in 10 patients (3.8%) and perforation occurred in one patient (0.4%). The endoscopic submucosal dissection using an external grasping forceps for superficial gastric neoplasia is efficacious and safe.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for gastrointestinal neoplasms

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is an advanced technique of therapeutic endoscopy for superficial gastrointestinal neoplasms. Three steps characterize it: injecting fluid into the submucosa to elevate the lesion, cutting the surrounding mucosa of the lesion, and dissecting the submucosa beneath the lesion. The ESD technique has rapidly permeated in Japan for treatment of early gastric cancer, due to its excellent results of en-bloc resection compared to endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). Although there is still room for improvement to lessen its technical difficulty, ESD has recently been applied to esophageal and colorectal neoplasms. Favorable short-term results have been reported, but the application of ESD should be well considered by three aspects: (1) the possibility of nodal metastases of the lesion, (2) technical difficulty such as location, ulceration and operator’s skill, and (3) organ characteristics.

The results and limitations of endoscopic submucosal dissection for colorectal tumors

In the colorectal tumor, the lesions suitable for the endoscopic treatment are those with no lymph node metastasis such as adenomas, intramucosal cancers, and minimally invasive submucosal cancer (invasion depth 1000 m, well and moderately differentiated type, no lymphovascular invasion). The new endoscopic technique, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) enables en-bloc resection of the lesions regardless of their size and location. In order to perform ESD more easily, safely, and efficiently, we invented water jet short needle knives (Flush knife). Emitting a jet of water from the tip of a sheath enables submucosal local injection with a knife itself without replacement of operative instruments, which leads to efficient treatment. Especially, Flush knife is very effective for the lesions located at lower rectum and anal canal where there are many vessels. We treated a total of 361 colorectal lesions by ESD between June 2002 and July 2007, and en-block complete resection rate was 98.3 %. In 12 cases, "muscle retracting sign" was recognized. This sign is an index of the discontinuation of ESD, but it is impossible to diagnose preoperatively. The postoperative bleeding occurred in 0.8 % (3 cases: no blood transfusion is needed). The intraoperative perforation occurred in 1.9 % (6 cases: 5 cases were treated conservatively, 1 case was treated surgically) and the postoperative perforation occurred in 1case (0.3%) treated surgically. ESD is the extremely effective treatment for the colorectal tumors and also is possible to be performed safely with the appropriate choice of the devices and strategy for dissection.

Short- and long-term outcomes of standardized EMR of nonpolypoid (flat and depressed) colorectal lesions > or = 1 cm (with video)

BACKGROUND

Nonpolypoid (flat and depressed) colorectal lesions are increasingly recognized. Their endoscopic removal requires specialized EMR techniques, which are more complex to perform. Outcomes data on EMR of nonpolypoid neoplasms in the United States is needed.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the safety and efficacy of EMR in the resection of nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasms > or = 1 cm.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SETTING

Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System.

PATIENTS

Over a 5-year period, patients who underwent EMR for nonpolypoid colorectal lesions > or = 1 cm.

INTERVENTION

A standardized approach that included lesion assessment, classification, inject-and-cut EMR technique, reassessment, and treatment of residual tissue.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Complete resection, bleeding, perforation, development of advanced cancer, and death.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients (125 lesions: 117 flat and 8 depressed) met inclusion criteria. Mean size was 16.7 +/- 7 mm (range, 10-50 mm). Histology included 5 submucosal invasive cancers, 5 carcinomas in situ, and 91 adenomas. Thirty-eight patients (48 lesions) did not receive surveillance colonoscopy: 8 had surgery, 16 had hyperplastic pathology, and 14 did not undergo repeat examination. Surveillance colonoscopy was performed on 62 patients (77 lesions). Complete resection was achieved in 100% of these patients after 1 to 3 surveillance colonoscopies. All patients received follow-up (mean [standard deviation] = 4.5 +/- 1.4 years); none developed colorectal cancer or metastasis.

LIMITATIONS

Single endoscopist, retrospective study.

CONCLUSIONS

A standardized EMR (inject-and-cut) technique is a safe and curative treatment option in nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasms (> or = 1 cm) in the United States.