Approach to the endoscopic resection of duodenal lesions

Hyperplasia of Brunner's glands as a cause of gastrointestinal bleeding in a young patient: endoscopic approach

Brunner's gland hyperplasia or Brunneroma is a rare benign proliferative lesion of the small intestine. It is often incidentally discovered during endoscopy or imaging studies. The endoscopic presentation can be nodular, polypoid, or a diffuse glandular proliferation with thickening of the duodenal wall, which can be mistaken for malignant neoplasia. It rarely causes gastrointestinal bleeding. Is presented a case of a 25-year-old man who presented with melena and anemia secondary to Brunner's gland hyperplasia.

Efficacy and safety of precutting endoscopic mucosal resection versus endoscopic submucosal dissection for non-ampullary superficial duodenal lesions

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic treatments for non-ampullary superficial duodenal lesions (NASDLs) are yet to be standardized. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for NASDLs demands advanced techniques and a long procedure time to prevent perforation and bleeding. Precutting endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a technical modification of ESD that overcomes the limitations of ESD. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of precutting EMR versus ESD for NASDLs.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with NASDLs treated with either precutting EMR or ESD from January 2015 to March 2023.

RESULTS

A total of 90 patients with NASDLs were analyzed, with 44 patients in the precutting EMR group and 46 patients in the ESD group. The endoscopic procedure achieved satisfactory outcomes in both groups, with en block resection rate of 100.0 %. The R0 resection rates in the precutting EMR and ESD groups were 95.5 % and 93.5 %, respectively. No delayed perforation occurred postoperatively in either group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in age, gender, lesion location, layer of lesion origin, macroscopic type, and lesion size. The procedure time was significantly shorter in the precutting EMR group than in the ESD group (22.9 ± 7.1 min vs 36.0 ± 10.6 min, p<0.001). The intraoperative perforation rate was significantly lower in the precutting EMR group compared to ESD group (4.5% vs 19.6 %, p = 0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

Precutting EMR is comparable to ESD for NASDLs, demonstrating a lower intraoperative perforation rate and shorter procedure time compared to ESD.

Diagnostic accuracy of cross-sectional and endoscopic imaging in ampullary tumours: systematic review

BACKGROUND

Differentiation between adenomas and carcinomas of the ampulla of Vater is crucial for therapy and prognosis. This was a systematic review of the literature on the accuracy of diagnostic modalities used to differentiate between benign and malignant ampullary tumours.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library. Studies were included if they reported diagnostic test accuracy information among benign and malignant ampullary tumours, and used pathological diagnosis as the reference standard. Risk of bias was assessed using Quality Assessment on Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) 2 and QUADAS-C.

RESULTS

Ten studies comprising 397 patients were included. Frequently studied modalities were (CT; 2 studies), endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS; 3 studies), intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS; 2 studies), and endoscopic forceps biopsy (3 studies). For CT, the reported sensitivity for detecting ampullary carcinoma was 44 and 95%, and the specificity 58 and 60%. For EUS, the sensitivity ranged from 63 to 89% and the specificity between 50 and 100%. A sensitivity of 88 and 100% was reported for IDUS, with a specificity of 75 and 93%. For forceps biopsy, the sensitivity ranged from 20 to 91%, and the specificity from 75 to 86%. The overall risk of bias was scored as moderate to poor. Data were insufficient for meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

To differentiate benign from malignant ampullary tumours, EUS and IDUS seem to be the best diagnostic modalities. Sufficient high-quality evidence, however, is lacking.

Endoloop pre-ligation assisted resection of a giant Brunner's gland adenoma of the duodenal bulb

Brunner's gland adenoma (BGA), also known as Brunneroma or polypoid hamartoma, is a rare benign duodenal tumor that proliferates from Brunner's glands of the duodenum. They are usually asymptomatic and discovered by chance during endoscopy. Some giant lesions can sometimes present with chronic abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and anemia, including gastrointestinal bleeding and obstructive symptoms, and need to be resected by surgery or endoscopy. Here we report a giant BGA that was easily and safely removed by Endoloop pre-ligation assisted resection.

Cold snare resection for non-ampullary sporadic duodenal adenomas: systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and study aims The role of cold snare polypectomy (CSP) in curative resection of non-ampullary sporadic duodenal adenomas (NASDA) is debated. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and safety of CSP for NASDA. Patients and methods In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we identified published series of patients with CSP for NASDA by searching PubMed and Google Scholar, which resulted in six papers (205 lesions). The main outcome was the rate of local remission after repeated CSP, the secondary outcomes were rates of local remission at first control and rates for delayed bleeding and immediate perforations. We computed the weighted summary proportions under the fixed and random effects model. Results The pooled proportion of local remission after repeated CSP was 88% (95% confidence interval [CI] 57%-100%). The pooled proportion of local remission at first control was 81% (95% CI 55%-98%), the pooled proportion of delayed bleeding was 1% (95% CI 0%-4%) and the pooled proportion of immediate perforation was 0% (95% CI 0%-2%). Conclusions Our meta-analysis suggests that CSP should be considered as the first-line therapy for NASDA.

The Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes of 71 Duodenal Brunner's Gland Adenomas with Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate outcomes of patients with duodenal Brunner's gland adenomas (BGAs) that were treated endoscopically.

METHODS

We identified 71 consecutive patients treated at our center with endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for their duodenal tumors diagnosed pathologically as BGAs over the period between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2021. We retrospectively analyzed our experience and short- and long-term outcomes of ESD therapy on patients with BGAs.

RESULTS

Among 71 BGA patients with an average age of 57 ± 11.7 years (range: 30-82), 48 (67.6%) were male and 23 (32.4%) were female. The accuracy of preoperative diagnosis with endoscopic ultrasonography was 44.0% (22/50). The H. pylori infection was found in 29 patients (29/71, 40.8%). The median size of BGAs was 1.5 cm (interquartile range [IQR] 0.8-2.7 cm). The most common location was the duodenum bulb (50/71, 64.8%). For the ESD procedure, the median operation time was 15.0 min (IQR 9.5-25.5 min). The en bloc and the complete resection rates were 97.2% and 92.3%, respectively. ESD-related mild acute obstructive pancreatitis was present in 2 patients (2/4, 50%) with BGAs located in the ampulla region. During the follow-up period, 1 patient with a positive peripheral margin experienced tumor recurrence 2 years after the initial ESD. There was no disease-related death for the cohort.

CONCLUSION

ESD was an effective and safe therapeutic option for BGA patients with excellent outcomes. Long-term follow-up is needed.

Comparable long-term survival outcomes of endoscopic therapy versus surgical therapy for T1-2N0M0 duodenal neuroendocrine tumors

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

The optimal treatment modality for T1-2N0M0 duodenal neuroendocrine tumors (DNETs) is still controversial. In this study, long-term survival outcomes were compared between the endoscopic therapy and surgical therapy for T1-2N0M0 DNETs using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with DNETs from the SEER database were selected from 2004 to 2015. We used the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test to compare long-term survival results between the endoscopic therapy and surgical therapy. An analysis of the multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was performed to identify risk factors for patient prognoses. The 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance baseline data.

RESULTS

A total of 816 patients with DNETs were included, of which 578 patients (70.8%) received endoscopic therapy and 238 patients (29.2%) received surgical therapy. Before the PSM, there was no difference between the two groups of patients with DNETs on long-term survival [5-year OS (86.1% vs. 87.9%, P = 0.45), 10-year OS (72.5% vs. 72.3%, P = 0.45)]. After adjusting covariates, we found endoscopic therapy and surgical therapy groups had comparable risks of overall survival (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.60-1.23, P = 0.409) and cancer-specific survival (HR 1.68, 95% CI 0.74-3.83, P = 0.214). In the post-PSM analysis, there was no discernible difference between the endoscopic therapy and surgical therapy group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found that for T1-2N0M0 DNETs patients, whose long-term OS and CSS results were similar for the endoscopic and surgical therapy groups. For these patients, endoscopic resection might be an optimal therapy modality.

Clinical Characteristics and Endoscopic Management of Duodenal Lipomas: 10-Year Experience from a Tertiary Center in China

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Duodenal lipomas are rarely found in the gastrointestinal tract. Most published literature referring to the tumors is limited to case series. There remained issues about the understanding and management of duodenal lipomas to be clarified. We aimed to investigate the clinical and endoscopic features of duodenal lipomas. Additionally, outcomes of endoscopic resection for duodenal lipomas were evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 29 duodenal lipomas resected endoscopically from December 2011 to October 2021 were included. Clinical characteristics, endoscopic features, and endoscopic ultrasound findings were analyzed retrospectively. The endoscopic resection was performed in 3 ways: hot snare polypectomy, endoscopic mucosa resection, and endoscopic submucosal dissection.

RESULTS

Of the 29 duodenal lipomas, 21 were located at the second portion with a mean size of 25.8 mm (range, 7-60 mm). Yamada type IV was the most common macroscopic type in 14 lesions, exhibiting a tendency of forming large peduncles. Seven patients had digestive symptoms. The occurrence of symptoms is associated with the tumor size. Endoscopic ultrasound was performed on 23 duodenal lipomas, of which 20 demonstrated homogenous echogenicity and 3 presented heterogeneous with tubular anechoic region. The endoscopic resection operation was successfully conducted on 29 patients without severe adverse events. The rate of en bloc and endoscopic complete resection was 93.1% and 86.2%, respectively. Recurrence was noted in 1 patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical characteristics with typical endoscopic ultrasound features are helpful in duodenal lipomas diagnosis. The endoscopic resection is a safe and effective treatment for duodenal lipomas with considerable long-term outcomes.

Endoscopic full‑thickness resection with clip‑ and snare‑assisted traction for gastric submucosal tumours in the fundus: A single‑centre case series

Exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection (Eo-EFTR) has been recognized as a feasible therapy for gastrointestinal submucosal tumours (SMTs) originating deep in the muscularis propria layer; however, Eo-EFTR is difficult to perform in a retroflexed fashion in the gastric fundus. As a supportive technique, clip- and snare-assisted traction may help expose the surgical field and shorten the operation time in endoscopic resection of difficult regions. However, the application of clip- and snare-assisted traction in Eo-EFTR of SMTs in the gastric fundus is limited. Between April 2018 and December 2021, Eo-EFTR with clip- and snare-assisted traction was performed in 20 patients with SMTs in the gastric fundus at The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. The relevant clinical data were collected retrospectively for all of the patients and analysed. All 20 patients underwent Eo-EFTR successfully without conversion to open surgery or severe adverse events. The en bloc resection rate and R0 resection rate were both 100%. Two patients had abdominal pain and fever after the operation, and five patients had fever, which recovered with medical therapy. No complications, such as delayed bleeding or delayed perforation, were observed. The postoperative pathology indicated that 19 cases were gastrointestinal stromal tumours and one case was leiomyoma. During the follow-up, no residual tumour, local recurrence or distant metastasis was detected by endoscopy or abdominal computed tomography. In conclusion, Eo-EFTR with clip- and snare-assisted traction appears to be a relatively safe and effective treatment for gastric SMTs in the fundus. However, prospective studies on a larger sample size are required to verify the effect of the clip- and snare-assisted traction in Eo-EFTR.

Endoscopic therapy of sporadic non-ampullary duodenal adenomas, single centre retrospective analysis

INTRODUCTION

Although sporadic non-ampullary duodenal adenomas (SNADA) are rare, with the risk of progression to cancer, they deserve therapy. Endoscopic therapy of SNADA is effective, but with the increased risk of complications, endotherapy should be performed in high-volume units. The results of endotherapy of SNADA in our unit are presented.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 97 patients with SNADA had endoscopic resection in 2005-2021 and control endoscopies between 3 and 24 months. Snare polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic band ligation (EBL) and endoloop were used (en bloc 37% and piecemeal 63%). In cases of residual/recurrent adenomas, endotherapy was repeated.

RESULTS

The median size of the adenoma was 12 (5-60) mm and most polyps were sessile (25%) or flat (65%). Primary endotherapy eradicated adenomas in 57 (59%) cases. Residual and recurrence rates were 24% (n = 23) and 17% (n = 16) with successful endotherapy in 16 (70%) and 13 (81%) patients. Endotherapy was successful in 86 (89%) patients after a median (range) follow-up of 23 (1-166) months. Four out of 11 patients with failed endotherapy had surgery; seven patients were not fit for surgery. There were no disease-specific deaths or carcinoma. Eleven patients (11%) suffered from complications: perforation requiring surgery (n = 1), sepsis (n = 1), postprocedure bleeding (n = 7), cardiac arrest (n = 1) and coronary infarct (n = 1). The thirty-day mortality was zero. Colonoscopy was performed on 67 (69%) patients with neoplastic lesions in 33% patients during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Endotherapy of SNADA is effective and safe. Repeat endotherapy in residual and recurrent adenomas is successful. Careful patient selection is mandatory. Abbreviations: ASA: American Society of Anesthesiologist classification; BMI: body mass index; CT: computed tomography; EBL: endoscopic band ligation; EMR: endoscopic mucosal resection; ESD: endoscopic submucosal dissection; ET: endotherapy; FAP: familial adenomatous polyposis; F: female; LST: laterally spreading tumours; M: male; SD: standard deviation; SNADA: sporadic nonampullary duodenal adenoma.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Benefits of Intra-operative Enteroscopy in Epithelioid Angiosarcoma of the Small Intestine

Intestinal epithelioid angiosarcoma is an uncommon type of vascular tumor with unusually varied clinical presentations, including non-explained severe gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia, and abdominal pain. A 77-year-old man presented with recurrent severe anemia caused by gastrointestinal bleeding. The diagnosis was jejunal angiosarcoma. The patient had three intestinal resections assisted by explorative intraoperative enteroscopy, which detected multifocal intestinal lesions. Intraoperative enteroscopy is a helpful diagnostic and prognostic approach that detects small intestinal tumors. Intraoperative enteroscopy could improve the outcome of intestinal angiosarcomas.

Advances of endoscopic and surgical management in gastrointestinal stromal tumors

As one of the most common mesenchymal malignancies in the digestive system, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) occur throughout the alimentary tract with diversified oncological characteristics. With the advent of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor era, the treatment regimens of patients with GISTs have been revolutionized and GISTs have become the paradigm of multidisciplinary therapy. However, surgery resection remains recognized as the potentially curative management for the radical resection and provided with favorable oncological outcomes. The existing available surgery algorithms in clinical practice primarily incorporate open procedure, and endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery together with combined operation techniques. The performance of various surgery methods often refers to the consideration of risk evaluation of recurrence and metastases; the degree of disease progression; size, location, and growth pattern of tumor; general conditions of selected patients; and indications and safety profile of various techniques. In the present review, we summarize the fundamental principle of surgery of GISTs based on risk assessment as well as tumor size, location, and degree of progress with an emphasis on the indications, strengths, and limitations of current surgery techniques.

Endoscopic Surveillance and Treatment of Upper GI Tract Lesions in Patients with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis-A New Perspective on an Old Disease

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an autosomal dominant disease caused by a germline mutation in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene. Patients with FAP develop up to thousands of colorectal adenomas as well as lesions in the upper GI tract. In FAP, the upper digestive lesions include gastric fundic gland polyps (FGPs), antrum adenomas, duodenal or small intestinal adenomas, and carcinoma. Patients, after colectomy, are still at significant risk for extracolonic malignancies. Advances in endoscope resolution and optical enhancement technologies allow endoscopists to provide assessments of benign and malignant polyps. For this reason, in the past decades, endoscopic resection techniques have become the first line of treatment in patients with polyps in the upper GI, whereby polyps and even early cancers can be successfully cured. In FAP patients, endoscopic ampullectomy appears to be a safe and effective way of treating patients with ampullary tumors. According to current indications, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and stenting of the main pancreatic duct follow ampullectomy.

Underwater Versus Conventional Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Superficial Non-ampullary Duodenal Epithelial Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Duodenal underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) has been suggested as a feasible treatment option for superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs). However, its efficacy and safety have not been fully established yet. Thus, the objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the efficacy and safety of UEMR as compared with conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (CEMR) in the treatment of SNADETs.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library. Studies comparing CEMR and UEMR for the resection of SNADET were included. Outcomes included en-bloc and complete resection rates, adverse events, and procedure time.

RESULTS

A total of six studies with 2454 lesions were included in the quantitative synthesis. En-bloc and complete resection rates were not significantly different between UEMR and CEMR (OR for en-bloc resection: 0.997 [95% CI 0.439-2.266]; OR for complete resection: 0.960 [95% CI 0.628-1.468]). There was no significant risk difference for perforation (risk difference: - 0.002; 95% CI - 0.009 to 0.005) or delayed bleeding (risk difference: - 0.001; 95% CI - 0.014 to 0.011). Procedure time was significantly shorter in the UEMR (standardized mean difference: - 1.294; 95% CI - 2.461 to - 0.127). The risk of recurrence was not significantly different between UEMR and CEMR (risk difference: 0.001; 95% CI - 0.041 to 0.044).

CONCLUSION

Although our results did not show any superiority of UEMR over CEMR in the treatment of SNADETs, UEMR showed equivalent efficacy and safety as compared with CEMR and was associated with a shorter procedure time.

AGA Clinical Practice Update on Management of Subepithelial Lesions Encountered During Routine Endoscopy: Expert Review

BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: Forceps bite-on-bite or deep-well biopsies or tunnel biopsies can sometimes establish a pathologic diagnosis of SEL. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: EUS is the modality of choice to evaluate indeterminate SEL of the GI track and/or if non-diagnostic tissue by forceps biopsies. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: SEL arising from the submucosa can be sampled using tunnel biopsies (or deep-well biopsies), EUS guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA), EUS guided fine-needle biopsy (FNB), or advanced endoscopic techniques (unroofing or endoscopic submucosal resection). BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: SEL arising from muscularis propria should be sampled (preferably using FNB or FNA) to determine whether the lesion is a GIST or leiomyoma. Structural assessment and staining will allow differentiation of mesenchymal tumors and assessing their malignant potential. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: Endoscopic resection techniques have been described for removal of SEL and should be limited to endoscopists skilled in advanced tissue resection techniques. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: Management of each SEL depends on the size of the lesion, histopathology, their malignant potential, and presence of symptoms. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: SEL that have an endoscopic appearance consistent with a lipoma or pancreatic rest and normal mucosal biopsies do not need further evaluation or surveillance. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 8: For SEL arising from muscularis propria that are less than 2 cm in size, surveillance using EUS should be considered. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 9: Gastric GIST larger than 2 cm should be considered for resection. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 10: Subepithelial lesions that are ulcerated, bleeding, or causing symptoms should be considered for resection.

Effects of endoscopic therapy and surgical resection on long-term survival outcomes in patients with duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors: a surveillance, epidemiology, and end result program analysis

BACKGROUND

With the rapid development of endoscopic technology, endoscopic therapy (ET) has gradually become a new treatment choice for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). However, due to the low incidence of duodenal GIST and the difficulty of ET, there is a lack of data to compare the long-term results of ET and surgical resection.

METHODS

Duodenal GIST patients from 2004 to 2015 were selected from the surveillance, epidemiology, and end result (SEER) database. We used the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test to describe the 5- and 10-year survival differences between the ET and the surgery groups. The multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was used for analyzing the risk factors influencing the prognosis of patients. We used a 1:1 propensity score-matched (PSM) to reduce confounding factors, and then we compared survival differences between the two groups again.

RESULTS

A total of 294 patients with duodenal GIST were enrolled, including 41 (13.9%) patients with ET and 253 (86.1%) patients with surgical resection. Before PSM, the long-term survival of patients with duodenal GIST after ET and surgical resection was similar [5-year overall survival (OS) (79.7 vs. 79.3%, p = 0.876), 10-year OS (66.5 vs. 68.1%, p = 0.876)]. After adjusting the relevant variables using multivariate Cox analysis, we found that the ET and surgery groups were comparable in OS and cancer-specific survival (CSS). After PSM, there was also no significant difference between ET and surgical resection for long-term OS and CSS.

CONCLUSION

Our study found no significant difference in long-term survival between ET and surgical resection in patients with duodenal GIST. However, to obtain high-quality evidence, more extensive sample size studies are needed in the future to evaluate the long-term effects of ET on patients.

A 10 cm pedunculated duodenal Brunner gland hamartoma, case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Brunner gland hamartoma is rare duodenal neoplasm. These benign lesions are usually presented by upper gastrointestinal bleeding and sometimes extend to cause intestinal obstruction.

PRESENTATION OF THE CASE

We report a case of a 43-year-old male patient manifested with iron deficiency anemia. Upon investigations, computed topography (CT) scan found a dilated first part of the duodenum with presence of large pedunculated polyp. The histopathological examination revealed a submucosal lobular proliferation of duodenal Brunner's gland separated by a fine fibrous septum. No dysplastic signs were observed. Immunohistochemical studies confirmed the nature of the glands and reveled absence of Helicobacter pylori gastritis. Diagnosis was confirmed.

DISCUSSION

Brunner glands hamartomas are rare tumors. They are commonly presented by upper GI bleeding and intestinal obstruction. The pathogenesis remains unclear. They are usually located in the first part (bulb) of the duodenum. Mucosal irritation and Helicobacter pylori infection are suggested causes. Different surgical and endoscopical modalities are applied in the management depending on the size and location of the mass. In our case, the tumor was removed by Endoscopic submucosal dissection.

CONCLUSION

Brunner gland hamartoma is a rare usually benign tumor. Presented clinically by upper GI bleeding and obstruction. Histopathologically Brunner gland Hamartoma characterized by lobular proliferation of Brunner gland associated with presence of other mature tissues. Although these tumors are benign it carries a minor risk of malignant transformation.

Underwater versus conventional endoscopic mucosal resection for superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors ≤20mm: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) is an emerging technique for endoscopic resection of superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs). However, compared to conventional EMR, its efficacy and safety has not been widely explored.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search using the Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases to identify studies comparing the efficacy and safety of UEMR versus EMR for SNADETs. The main outcomes examined included en bloc resection rate, R0 resection rate, recurrence rate, procedure time, and adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 5 studies comprising 635 patients were included. All the literature included duodenal lesions smaller than 20 mm. The pooled analysis showed that UEMR could achieve a higher en bloc resection rate (OR 1.78, 95%CI: 1.17 to 2.71, P = 0.007) and shorter procedure time (MD -4.08, 95%CI: -6.44 to -1.73, P = 0.0007) than EMR. However, the pooled results did not support a superiority of UEMR over EMR for R0 resection rate (OR 1.27; 95% CI: 0.90 to 1.81, P = 0.18) or recurrence rate (OR 0.49; 95% CI: 0.15 to 1.67, P = 0.26). The occurrence of adverse events, including postoperative bleeding, intraoperative perforation, and delayed perforation, was very low in included studies.

CONCLUSION

Compared to EMR, UEMR is an effective and safe technique for SNADETs ≤20 mm.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for proximal duodenal subepithelial lesions: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been used to remove subepithelial lesions (SELs) in recent years; however, duodenal ESD is associated with high rates of immediate or delayed bleeding and perforation. Whether ESD can be recommended for the treatment of duodenal SELs remains controversial. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of ESD for duodenal SELs.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in 62 patients (62 lesions) who underwent ESD for duodenal SELs between January 2012 and December 2020. The therapeutic outcomes from ESD for duodenal SELs and procedure-related complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

En bloc resection and complete resection rates associated with duodenal ESD were 90.3% and 100%, respectively; four patients had a positive microscopic margin on pathologic examination. The median procedure time was 45 min (range 20-106 min). During the procedure, two patients received emergency surgery for uncontrolled bleeding and perforation, respectively. After the procedure, delayed bleeding occurred in three patients (4.8%), which was successfully managed by clipping, and delayed perforation occurred in two patients (3.2%) and needed emergency surgery. Risk factors related to complications were analyzed. Lesion size was found to be significantly associated with the complications (P = 0.028). No recurrences were detected, and no distant metastasis was observed in any patient during a median follow-up period of 45.5 months (range, 6-103 months).

CONCLUSION

Duodenal ESD is relatively safe and feasible for duodenal SELs, especially for lesions no more than 2 cm in size.

Efficacy and Safety of Exploring Deeper Sections of the Infrapapillary Area of the Duodenum by Using Sedative Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

Background

Using conventional esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to evaluate the infrapapillary area is not feasible. The use of sedative EGD may enable endoscopists to investigate the infrapapillary condition of the duodenum. In this study, we aimed to evaluate lesions in the infrapapillary regions by using sedative EGD.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we used the data of patients who underwent sedative EGD examinations at a tertiary hospital in southern Taiwan. The endoscopists evaluated the esophagus, stomach, and proximal duodenum and then attempted to explore the infrapapillary portion of the duodenum as deeply as possible. We assessed the success rate for the exploration of infrapapillary areas. Furthermore, we analyzed specific clinical findings of sedative EGD examination.

Results

In total, 2973 patients underwent sedative EGD between November 1, 2010, and December 31, 2011. For 2632 of these patients, it was their first sedative EGD examination. In 2511 patients (95.4%), the exploration of the infrapapillary areas was successful. In approximately 10% of the patients, specific findings were detected over the infrapapillary region, and 7 of these patients exhibited clinically significant findings (i.e., gallbladder cancer with metastasis, periampullary Vater adenoma, natural killer cell enteropathy, villous adenoma with moderate dysplasia, infrapapillary duodenal adenoma with dysplasia, duodenal perforation with tumor-like formation, and follicular lymphoma). No patient experienced minor or major adverse reactions during the sedative EGD procedure.

Conclusions

The current study provided evidence that sedative EGD examination enables a safe, comfortable, and effective endoscopic examination of deeper sections of the duodenum to evaluate the papillary and infrapapillary regions.

Endoscopic resection via antral submucosal tunneling for en bloc removal of tumors in the duodenal bulb

To overcome difficulties in the removal of duodenal bulb lesions, especially those in anatomically challenging locations, we developed the endoscopic resection via antral submucosal tunneling (ERAST) technique. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility and safety of ERAST for the removal of superficial and subepithelial lesions in the duodenal bulb. This was a single-center retrospective study of 10 patients with lesions in the bulb. Submucosal tunneling from the gastric antrum to the duodenum was performed to facilitate en bloc tumor resection in the bulb. The en bloc resection rate, postoperative bleeding, and perforation were the primary endpoints. Ten lesions (four superficial and six subepithelial), with an average size of 19.1 ± 9.2 mm, were resected en bloc by ERAST. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy follow-up after 2 months indicated complete wound healing in all patients. In our primary experience, ERAST was found to be a feasible and safe endoscopic resection technique for the removal of lesions in the duodenal bulb, especially those that are difficult to access.

Safety and efficacy of surgical and endoscopic resection in the treatment of duodenal subepithelial lesions

BACKGROUND

Duodenal subepithelial lesions (D-SELs) are rare and their resection is challenging. Unfortunately, data on surgical and endoscopic resection of D-SELs are scarce. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of surgical resection and endoscopic resection (ER) for D-SELs.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed clinical data of patients with non-ampullary D-SELs who underwent ER or surgery and compared the outcomes between ER and surgery with no/low-risk SELs over 15 mm from March 2010 to August 2020. Clinicopathologic findings, procedure-related parameters, and follow-up data were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 107 patients (108 lesions) were enrolled; 52 patients (53 lesions) received ER and 55 patients (55 lesions) received surgery. In ER group, en bloc resection rate and R0 resection rate were 94 and 89%, respectively. Major adverse events rate was 6%. One (2%) patient experienced local recurrence. In surgery group, R0 resection was achieved in all cases. Major adverse events rate was 20%. Recurrence rate and distant metastases rate were 4 and 8%, respectively. One (2%) patient died from septicemia during follow-up. Thirty-three patients in each group were enrolled in the comparison. There were no significant differences in age, sex, lesion size and location (P > 0.05). More histologically GISTs and muscularis propria-originated lesions were treated by surgery (P < 0.05). ER was significantly associated with a shorter operation time, shorter hospital stay, lower cost, less estimated blood loss, and lower major adverse events rate compared to the surgery group (P < 0.05). However, R0 resection rate, mortality, recurrence rate, and metastases rate were not significant different (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

ER is an effective and safe treatment modality for selected patients with non-ampullary D-SELs by expert endoscopists. Surgery is a radical method for D-SELs that should be reserved for D-SELs not amenable to ER.

Signet-ring cell carcinoma of the duodenal bulb presenting with gastrointestinal hemorrhage: a case report and literature review

Background

Primary duodenal cancer (PDC) is rare, especially signet-ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) of the duodenal bulb, and it is commonly misdiagnosed as an ulceration. Here, we report a rare case of SRCC of the duodenal bulb presenting with gastrointestinal hemorrhage in an 82-year-old man.

Case presentation

An 82-year-old man was admitted for gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Physical examination revealed upper abdominal tenderness and pale appearance, but was otherwise unrevealing. Laboratory workup was significant for anemia. Imaging showed no abnormalities. Two endoscopic evaluations along with interventional embolization were attempted and, unfortunately, adequate hemostasis was not achieved, resulting in distal subtotal gastrectomy, including the duodenal bulb. SRCC of the duodenal bulb was diagnosed based on pathology after surgery. Post-operatively, the patient experienced persistent gastrointestinal bleeding. Family declined further intervention and the patient eventually died one month post-resection.

Conclusions

SRCC in the duodenal bulb is difficult to diagnose. For those with high-risk factors, endoscopic examination and biopsy are recommended. For patients who can receive radical tumor resection, pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is considered a first-line option. Early diagnosis and resection have been shown to improve prognosis.

Endoscopic excision as a viable alternative to major resection for early duodenal cancers: A population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Duodenal cancer presents an elusive therapeutic challenge for clinicians to treat because of its highly malignant behavior and anatomical complexity. Endoscopic excision has been administered to treat early-stage cancers of upper gastrointestinal tract, especially esophagus and stomach cancer. There is currently a scarcity of data regarding the application and efficacy of endoscopic resection for early duodenal cancer due to its rarity. This study aimed at exploring the prevalence and efficacy of endoscopic excision in treatment for early duodenal cancer in comparison with major surgery.

METHODS

This cohort study retrospectively collected patients with primary Tis/T1-N0-M0 duodenal cancer in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 2004 to 2017. Prevalence of endoscopic excision in duodenal cancer treatment, overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) of patients who received different tumor-resection procedures were estimated.

RESULTS

A total of 1354 patients with Tis/T1-stage duodenal cancer were identified. Most patients (69.4%) underwent tumor resection as initial treatments. Among them, 65.7% underwent endoscopic excision, while 34.3% underwent major surgery. The multivariable Cox analyses revealed that endoscopic excision was associated with a significantly favorable OS (HR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.52-0.95, p = 0.02) and DSS (HR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.17-0.60, p < 0.001), compared to major surgery, for Tis/T1-stage cancer patients. In addition to cancer-related deaths (p < 0.001), endoscopic resection manifested significantly lower cumulative mortality rate of post-operative infectious diseases (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic resection currently accounted for approximately two-thirds of all procedures to resect Tis/T1-stage duodenal tumor. Endoscopic resection represents a viable therapeutic option in the management of Tis/T1-stage duodenal cancer for its oncological superiorities to major surgery and its capacity to reduce operative traumas and morbidities.

Endoscopic clipping in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding treatment

Since the earliest reports, advanced clipping systems have been developed, and it is possible to choose among many models with different structural and technical features. The main drawback of through-the-scope clips is their small size, which allows the compression of limited amounts of tissue needed for large-size vessel treatment. Therefore, the over-the-scope clip system was realized, allowing a larger and stronger mechanical compression of large tissue areas, with excellent results in achieving a definitive hemostasis in difficult cases. Many studies have analyzed the indications and efficacy of two-pronged endoclips and have shown good results for initial and permanent hemostasis. The aim of this review was to provide updated information on indications, positioning techniques, and results of clip application for endoscopic treatment of upper gastrointestinal non-variceal bleeding lesions.

Clinical outcomes of endoscopic resection of superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors: A 10-year retrospective, single-center study

BACKGROUND

Although premalignant duodenal lesions such as adenomas are uncommon, the incidences of these lesions have increased in recent times, and thus, the demand for minimally invasive treatments such as endoscopic resection (ER) has also increased. However, ER in the duodenum is more challenging than ER in other locations of the gastrointestinal tract.

AIM

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ER for superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs)

METHODS

We performed a retrospective observational study on 56 consecutive patients (58 lesions) diagnosed with SNADETs that underwent ER from January 2011 to December 2020 at Yeungnam University Hospital. Patient demographics, lesion characteristics, and procedural and technical data were collected, and clinical outcomes, including procedure-related complications, completeness of resection, and recurrence were analyzed.

RESULTS

Median patient age was 57 years [range, 26–77, 30 (53.6%) men]. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) was performed on 57 lesions (98.3%) and snare polypectomy on one (1.7%). Lesions consisted of 52 adenomas with low-grade dysplasia (89.7%), 3 adenomas with high-grade dysplasia (5.2%), and 3 intramucosal adenocarcinomas (5.2%). There were 16 cases of intraprocedural bleeding (27.6%) and 1 case of delayed bleeding (1.7%), and all these 17 cases were successfully managed endoscopically. No perforation or procedure-related death occurred. Larger lesion size was associated with an increased risk of EMR-related bleeding (P = 0.033). During a median follow-up period of 23 mo (range 6–100 mo), no local recurrence occurred, despite the fact one-third of the patients (19 lesions, 32.8%) underwent piecemeal resection and 3 patients (3 lesions, 5.2%) that underwent en bloc resection had a pathologically determined positive lateral margin. No patient died from a primary duodenal neoplasm.

CONCLUSION

The majority of SNADETs can be safely and curatively resected by EMR, and thus, based on consideration of the high incidence of fatal complications attributable to ESD, we conclude EMR, including piecemeal resection, should be considered the treatment of first choice for SNADETs.

Exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection for duodenal submucosal tumors: Current status and future perspectives

Exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR), with or without laparoscopic assistance, is an emergent natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery technique with promising safety and efficacy for the management of gastrointestinal submucosal tumors (SMTs) arising from the muscularis propria (MP), especially of the gastric wall. To date, evidence concerning duodenal exposed EFTR is lacking, mainly due to both the technical difficulty involved because of the special duodenal anatomy and concerns about safety and effectiveness of transmural wall defect closure. However, given the non-negligible morbidity and mortality associated with duodenal surgery, the recent availability of dedicated endoscopic tools for tissue-approximation capable to realize full-thickness defect closure could help in promoting the adoption of this endosurgical technique among referral centers. The aim of our study was to review the current evidence concerning exposed EFTR with or without laparoscopic assistance for the treatment of MP-arising duodenal SMTs.

Histologic heterogeneity and syndromic associations of non-ampullary duodenal polyps and superficial mucosal lesions

BACKGROUND

Duodenal polyps and superficial mucosal lesions (DP/SMLs) are poorly characterised.

AIMS

To describe a series of endoscopically-diagnosed extra-ampullary DPs/SMLs.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study conducted in a tertiary referral Endoscopy Unit, including patients who had DPs or SMLs that were biopsied or removed in 2010-2019. Age, gender, history of familial polyposis syndromes, DP/SML characteristics were recorded. Histopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular analyses were performed.

RESULTS

399 non-ampullary DP/SMLs from 345 patients (60.6% males; median age 67 years) were identified. Gastric foveolar metaplasia represented the most frequent histotype (193 cases, 48.4%), followed by duodenal adenomas (DAs; 77 cases, 19.3%). Most DAs (median size 6 mm) were sessile (Paris Is; 48%), intestinal-type (96.1%) with low-grade dysplasia (93.5%). Among syndromic DAs (23%), 15 lesions occurred in familial adenomatous polyposis 1, two were in MUTYH-associated polyposis and one was in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (foveolar-type, p53-positive, low-grade dysplasia). Only one (3.3%) tubular, low-grade DA showed mismatch repair deficiency (combined loss of MLH1 and PMS2, heterogeneous MSH6 expression), and it was associated with a MLH1 gene germline mutation (Lynch syndrome).

CONCLUSION

DPs/SMLs are heterogeneous lesions, most of which showing foveolar metaplasia, followed by low-grade, intestinal-type, non-syndromic DAs. MMR-d testing may identify cases associated with Lynch syndrome.

Current surgical management of duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (D-GISTs) are uncommon mesenchymal tumors and are managed differently to common duodenal epithelial tumors. They may pose surgical challenges due to their unique but complex pancreaticoduodenal location of the gastrointestinal tract near the ampulla of Vater, pancreas, mesenteric blood vessels, biliary and pancreatic ducts. The surgical management of D-GISTs can be performed safely with good oncological outcomes provided an adequate resection margin can be achieved. The current surgical options of resectable primary D-GISTs varies with increasing complexity depending on the location, size and involvement of surrounding structures such as wedge resection with primary closure, segmental resection with small bowel anastomosis or radical pancreaticoduodenectomy. Laparoscopic approaches have been shown to be feasible and safe with good oncological outcomes in experienced hands. The minimally invasive techniques including robotic-assisted approach will likely increase in the future. D-GISTs have a prognosis comparable to gastric and other small bowel GISTs. However, the heterogeneity of different studies and the limited use of systemic tyrosine kinase inhibitor in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings may influence the overall survival of resected D-GISTs. The use of limited resection when condition allows is recommended due to lower surgical morbidity, less postoperative complications and better oncologic outcomes.

Endoscopic resection in combination with ligation for the treatment of duodenal subepithelial lesions: a single-center experience

Duodenal subepithelial lesions (SELs) are increasingly detected during an endoscopic examination. However, no feasible and safe methods are available for removing duodenal SELs. In the present study, we aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of endoscopic resection in combination with ligation (ER-L) in removing the duodenal SELs. A total of 101 patients with duodenal SELs received ER-L from February 2010 to February 2020. The primary outcomes were complete resection, en bloc resection, and R0 resection. The secondary outcomes included procedure duration, bleeding, perforation, and residual lesions. A total of 101 patients with 101 duodenal SELs (ranged from 8.4 mm to 20.2 mm in size) were included in this study. Most of the SELs (95.1%) originated from the submucosal layer and were successfully removed using ER-L. The rates of complete resection, en bloc resection, and R0 resection were 100%, 96.0%, and 88.1%, respectively. The median procedure duration was 8 min. There was no severe complication, except for four patients who developed post-procedure bleeding (4.0%) and recovered after conservative treatment. Furthermore, no residual lesions were detected during the follow-up period (median of 36 months). Indeed, logistic regression analysis showed that the size of duodenal SELs was an independent factor for R0 resection during the ER-L procedure. Conclusively, ER-L was feasible and safe to remove the duodenal SELs that originated from the submucosal layer and were less than 20 mm. However, the feasibility and safety of the ER-L should be further confirmed when removing the duodenal SELs that originated from the muscularis propria (MP) layer and were larger than 20 mm in diameter.

Rare resected eight cases of duodenal adenocarcinomas

INTRODUCTION

Duodenal adenocarcinoma is a rare malignancy; recently, it has been found to be accompanied by operative indications.

METHODS

Nine consecutive rare cases were diagnosed with duodenal carcinoma (DC), in which clinicopathological characteristics were retrospectively examined. Age was ranged over middle-aged males and females. No clinical onset with severe symptoms was observed, and the specific treatment for accompanied diseases or habits was not found.

OUTCOMES

One case of two T1 stage DCs that underwent pancreas-sparing duodenectomy. Stage II DC was diagnosed in three cases, and stage III DC was diagnosed in four cases. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) mainly occurred in seven patients, and duodenectomy was limited in two patients. All operations were safely performed, and the postoperative course showed no severe morbidity. Histological findings showed R0 resection in eight cases and R1 at the retroperitoneal dissecting part in one case. Five patients with advanced-stage DC underwent adjuvant chemotherapy; however, four patients showed tumor recurrence within 12 months. With additional strong chemotherapy, eight patients survived up to 84 months, and one died of liver metastasis at 43 months after surgery. Three representative cases of mucosal invasion with widespread pancreas-sparing duodenectomy and advanced-stage DC cases undergoing duodenectomy or PD are shown.

CONCLUSION

In the field of upper digestive tract surgery, duodenal adenocarcinoma and various applications of surgery or adjuvant chemotherapy for long-term survival are important.

Endoscopic resection of a large polypoid gastric heterotopia of duodenum: a case report

This report shows a rare case of gastric heterotopia in the duodenum presented as a large polypoid lesion, differently from data reported in literature, which enters into differential diagnosis with other duodenal lesions that are not always benign.

Comparison of endoscopic resection techniques for duodenal neuroendocrine tumors: systematic review

Background and study aims  Regardless of size, duodenal neuroendocrine tumors (dNETs) should be considered potentially malignant. A complete resection without complications is essential to increase safety procedures. The aim of this review was to describe effectiveness and possible complications of endoscopic techniques resection for resectioning dNETs in patients with tumors ≤ 20 mm in diameter. Methods  An electronic bibliographic search was conducted using MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, Cochrane Central, and Google Scholar virtual databases. The types of intervention were endoscopic mucosal resection alone (EMR) or with cap (EMR-C), with a ligation device (EMR-L), with previous elevation of the tumor (EMR-I) or with endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD); argon plasm coagulation (APC), and polypectomy. The outcome measures adopted were presence of free margin associated with tumor resection, tumor recurrence, complications (bleeding and perforation), and length of the procedure. Results  Ten publications were included with the result of 224 dNET resections. EMR alone and polypectomy resulted in the most significantly compromised margin. The most frequent complication was bleeding (n = 21), followed by perforation (n = 8). Recurrence occurred in 13 cases, the majority of those under EMR or EMR-I. Conclusions  EMR-C or EMR-I should be preferred for resectioning of dNETs. Polypectomy should not be indicated for resection of dNETs due to the high occurrence of incomplete resections. EMR alone must be avoided due a higher frequency of compromised margin and recurrent surgery. ESD was associated with no recurrence, however, but an increased occurrence of bleeding and perforation.

Robotic resection of duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumour: Preliminary experience from a single centre

BACKGROUND

Experience in minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (DGISTs) is accumulating, but there is no consensus on the choice of surgical method.

AIM

To summarize the technique and feasibility of robotic resection of DGISTs.

METHODS

The perioperative and demographic outcomes of a consecutive series of patients who underwent robotic resection and open resection of DGISTs between May 1, 2010 and May 1, 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into the open surgery group and the robotic surgery group. Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) or limited resection was performed based on the location of the tumour and the distance between the tumour and duodenal papilla. Age, sex, tumour location, tumour size, operation time (OT), estimated blood loss (EBL), postoperative hospital stay (PHS), tumour mitosis, postoperative risk classification, postoperative recurrence and recurrence-free survival were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Of the 28 patients included, 19 were male and 9 were female aged 51.3 ± 13.1 years. Limited resection was performed in 17 patients, and PD was performed in 11 patients. Eleven patients underwent open surgery, and 17 patients underwent robotic surgery. Two patients in the robotic surgery group underwent conversion to open surgery. All the tumours were R0 resected, and there was no significant difference in age, sex, tumour size, operation mode, PHS, tumour mitosis, incidence of postoperative complications, risk classification, postoperative targeted drug therapy or postoperative recurrence between the two groups (P > 0.05). OT and EBL in the robotic group were significantly different to those in the open surgery group (P < 0.05). All the patients survived during the follow-up period, and 4 patients had recurrence and metastasis. No significant difference in recurrence-free survival was noted between the open surgery group and the robotic surgery group (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Robotic resection is safe and feasible for patients with DGISTs, and its therapeutic effect is equivalent to open surgery.

Imaging Spectrum of Duodenal Emergencies

The duodenum, the first portion of the small bowel, is divided into four segments and extends to both retro- and intraperitoneal spaces. Some conditions arise primarily from the duodenum, but it can be secondarily affected by processes that involve neighboring structures. When duodenal emergencies are not identified and treated promptly, they may result in high morbidity and mortality. Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis of duodenal conditions in the acute setting. However, the radiologic findings can be subtle, and awareness of relevant patient history and clinical presentation is important as it may increase the index of suspicion and one's ability to diagnose these conditions. Duodenal peptic disease is common and can be complicated by bleeding and perforation. The duodenum can be secondarily involved by pancreatitis and gallbladder pathologic conditions and may be affected by iatrogenic complications following endoscopic procedures. Traumatic injuries to the duodenum are generally uncommon, with penetrating traumatic injury being the most frequent mechanism of injury. Duodenal vascular pathologic conditions such as aortoduodenal fistula are uncommon but can be life threatening. The knowledge of which pathologic condition can involve which duodenal segment can help the radiologist establish a differential diagnosis and achieve a more targeted imaging approach. The online slide presentation from the RSNA Annual Meeting is available for this article. ^©RSNA, 2020.

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

OBJECTIVES

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Endoscopic management of superficial nonampullary duodenal tumors: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline

1: ESGE recommends that all duodenal adenomas should be considered for endoscopic resection as progression to invasive carcinoma is highly likely.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence. 2: ESGE recommends performance of a colonoscopy, if that has not yet been done, in cases of duodenal adenoma.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence. 3: ESGE recommends the use of the cap-assisted method when the location of the minor and/or major papilla and their relationship to a duodenal adenoma is not clearly established during forward-viewing endoscopy.Strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence. 4: ESGE recommends the routine use of a side-viewing endoscope when a laterally spreading adenoma with extension to the minor and/or major papilla is suspected.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence. 5: ESGE suggests cold snare polypectomy for small (< 6 mm in size) nonmalignant duodenal adenomas.Weak recommendation, low quality evidence. 6: ESGE recommends endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) as the first-line endoscopic resection technique for nonmalignant large nonampullary duodenal adenomas.Strong recommendation, moderate quality evidence. 7: ESGE recommends that endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for duodenal adenomas is an effective resection technique only in expert hands.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence. 8: ESGE recommends using techniques that minimize adverse events such as immediate or delayed bleeding or perforation. These may include piecemeal resection, defect closure techniques, noncontact hemostasis, and other emerging techniques, and these should be considered on a case-by-case basis.Strong recommendation, low quality evidence. 9: ESGE recommends endoscopic surveillance 3 months after the index treatment. In cases of no recurrence, a further follow-up endoscopy should be done 1 year later. Thereafter, surveillance intervals should be adapted to the lesion site, en bloc resection status, and initial histological result. Strong recommendation, low quality evidence.

Role of Video Capsule in Small Bowel Bleeding

Video capsule endoscopy has an essential role in the diagnosis and management of small bowel bleeding and is the first-line study recommended for this purpose. This article reviews the risk factors for small bowel bleeding, optimal timing for video capsule endoscopy testing, and algorithms recommended for evaluation. Used primarily for the assessment of nonacute gastrointestinal blood loss, video capsule endoscopy has an emerging role for more urgent use in emergency settings and in special populations. Future software incorporation of neural networks to enhance lesion detection will likely result in an augmented role of video capsule endoscopy in small bowel bleeding.

Balloon-assisted endoscopic submucosal dissection for treating small intestinal lipomas: Report of two cases

BACKGROUND

Most small intestinal lipomas are treated surgically, and some require repeated surgeries for multiple lipomas. However, application of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) technology in the deep small intestine is rarely reported owing to the special anatomical structure of the small intestine, medical equipment limitations, and the lack of relevant experience among endoscopists.

CASE SUMMARY

Two patients with small intestinal lipomas treated at the Air Force Medical Center from November 2015 to September 2019 were selected to undergo balloon-assisted ESD to treat the lipomas and explore the technical feasibility and safety of ESD for treating small intestinal lipomas. The two patients successfully underwent balloon-assisted ESD to treat four small intestinal lipomas, with a complete resection rate of 100% (4/4), without intraoperative or postoperative bleeding, perforation, or other complications. After 3-6 mo of postoperative follow-up, the clinical symptoms caused by the lipomas were significantly relieved or disappeared after treatment.

CONCLUSION

Balloon-assisted ESD is a safe and reliable new method for treating deep intestinal lipomas and shows good clinical feasibility.

The value of endoscopic resection for non-ampullary duodenal lesions: A single-center experience

BACKGROUND

To observe and preliminarily evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in the treatment of non-ampullary duodenal lesions (NADLs).

METHODS

This retrospective observational study included 84 patients who underwent endoscopic resection (ER) with non-ampullary duodenal lesions, between March 2010 and November 2020, at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (Beijing, China). Data on patient demographics, therapeutic outcomes, and follow-up results were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 44 patients undergoing EMR, and 40 patients accepting ESD. The overall en bloc resection rate was 98.8% (83/84). For the neoplastic lesions, the overall en bloc resection rate and curative rate were 98.5% (67/68) and 89.7% (61/68), respectively. The procedure-related bleeding and perforation rates were 2.4% and 10.7%, respectively. Univariate analysis results indicated that the main correlation factor of non-curative pathologic resection was tumor size (p = 0.004) and resection size (P < 0.01). There showed a higher curative rate in patients with tumors less than 25 mm in diameter. Multivariate logistic regression analyses determined that the tumor size (OR 0.935; 95% CI 0.878-0.995; P = 0.035) was associated with non-curative resection. No recurrences were observed in patients who had undergone a complete ER during a follow-up period of 42.8 months (range, 3-127 months).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic resection is an effective, safe, and feasible treatment for non-ampullary duodenal lesions.

Clinical characteristics of non-ampullary duodenal polyps in the elderly and the outcomes of endoscopic mucosal resection

At present, there are no reports on non-ampullary polyps of the duodenum (NAPDs) in the elderly. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinicopathological features of NAPDs in elderly and non-elderly patients to explore the efficacy and safety of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of NAPDs in the elderly.A total of 110 patients underwent EMR of NAPDs between April 2016 and December 2019. The shape, location, size, postoperative complications, and histopathological types of NAPDs were compared between the elderly group (n = 44) and the non-elderly group (n = 66).Sessile type was the most common form of NAPD in both groups. In the elderly group, the average size of NAPDs was 12.6 ± 3.9 mm. In the non-elderly group, NAPDs had an average size of 10.1 ± 5.8 mm. Complete EMR was performed in both groups. The postoperative complications of EMR did not significantly differ between the 2 groups. Postoperative pathological examination showed that tubular villous adenomas were more common in the elderly group than in the non-elderly group (P = .005), while tubular adenomas were more common in the non-elderly group than in the elderly group (P = .007). Of the 110 patients, 99 completed postoperative follow-up (median follow-up duration, 20.93 months). There were no residual or recurrent lesions.EMR is safe and effective for the treatment of NAPDs in elderly patients.

Endoscopic clipping for gastrointestinal bleeding: emergency and prophylactic indications

Endoscopic clipping has become a common practice among endoscopists. Several models are available, most frequently being introduced via the working channel of the endoscope (through-the-scope); however, larger clips can also be mounted onto the distal tip of the endoscope (over-the-scope). The main indications for endoclip placement include providing effective mechanical hemostasis for bleeding lesions and allowing endoscopic closure of gastrointestinal perforations. Endoclips can also be used prophylactically after endoscopic resection; however, this practice is still controversial. This review discusses the main indications for endoscopic clipping in the esophagus, stomach, duodenum and colon to manage acute bleeding lesions, and the criteria to be used in the prevention of delayed post-polypectomy bleeding.

Resection of a Nonampullary Adenoma with the New Gastroduodenal Full-Thickness Resection Device

Introduction Surgical resection of adenomas or subepithelial tumors in the duodenum has a high morbidity compared with endoscopic resection which also has a significant risk of complication. Endoscopic full-thickness resection has shown its feasibility and safety in the colorectum and in the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Patient and Methods We present the new gastroduodenal full-thickness resection device (FTRD) for full-thickness resection in a patient with a recurrent nonlifting adenoma in the nonampullary duodenum.

Results The procedure was successful with R0 resection without major complications. A control gastroscopy showed no recurrence of the adenoma.

Conclusion The gastroduodenal FTRD seems to be a promising new technique for resecting nonlifting adenomas in the nonampullary duodenum.

Successful endoscopic mucosal resection for non-ampullary duodenal signet-ring cell carcinoma

We present a case of non-ampullary duodenal signet-ring cell carcinoma treated by endoscopic mucosal resection. The patient is a 61-year-old male with a history of coronary artery bypass grafting, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus complicated by end-stage renal disease requiring peritoneal dialysis who presented for routine endoscopic screening. A 9 mm protruding mass was found in the second part of the duodenum, proximal to the ampulla of Vater. Biopsy of the mass revealed proliferation of signet-ring cells with vacuolated foamy cytoplasm and displaced ovoid nuclei, consistent with signet-ring cell carcinoma. We performed endoscopic mucosal resection and achieved margin-free resection without complications. No recurrence was seen during the 24 months of follow-up. Duodenal signet-ring cell carcinoma is a rare entity most commonly occurring in the ampulla of Vater. This is the first report of successful endoscopic mucosal resection for early non-ampullary duodenal signet-ring cell carcinoma.

Efficacy and safety of underwater endoscopic mucosal resection for superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background:

Superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADET) are increasingly found during upper endoscopy. Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) is an emerging technique for the endoscopic resection of SNADET. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this technique.

Methods:

We conducted a comprehensive search of several databases from inception to August 2019, which included Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Ovid Embase, Scopus, Ovid Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials, Ovid MEDLINE^®, and In-Process and other non-indexed citations. The primary outcome assessed was the pooled clinical success rate of UEMR. Secondary outcomes included rate of en bloc resection, pooled rate of high-grade dysplasia or intramucosal carcinoma (HGIC), and pooled rate of adverse events. Meta-regression analysis was performed based on tumor size.

Results:

A total of 8 study arms were included for analysis with UEMR performed in a total of 258 lesions. The pooled clinical success rate was 89.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 83.4-94.1). En-bloc removal was achieved in 84.6% of treated lesions (95%CI 75.5-90.7). The pooled rate of HGIC was 24.7% (95%CI 10.3-48.3). The pooled rate of adverse events was 6.9% (95%CI 2.5-17.9). This included 10 total adverse events, with the majority being self-limited delayed bleeding. There were no duodenal perforations.

Conclusions:

UEMR for endoscopic resection of SNADET has a high efficacy. In addition, this technique has a high rate of en bloc resection and an acceptable adverse event profile. Given these data, UEMR should be considered as a method for endoscopic resection of SNADET.