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

BACKGROUND

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

METHOD

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

CONCLUSION

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

Factors associated with early failure of peroral endoscopic myotomy in achalasia

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Achalasia can be treated very effectively with peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), but factors associated with early failure remain to be determined, especially in European cohorts.

METHODS

All consecutive adult patients who underwent a first POEM to treat primary achalasia were included in this multicenter retrospective study. Early failure was defined by an Eckardt score (ES) >3 at 3 months after POEM. When evaluating factors predictive of early failure, 2 cohorts were considered: one consisted of the total population, for whom only basic variables were collected, and the other a cohort built for a case-control study that included matched early-failure and early-success patients (ratio, 1:2).

RESULTS

Among 746 patients, the early failure rate was 9.4%. Predictive factors were age ≤45 years (P = .019), achalasia types I and III (P < .001), and the development of a severe adverse event during the procedure (P = .023). In the case-control study, the only additional independent risk factor for early failure was a high pre-POEM ES (P = .001). Only the retrosternal pain subscore was significantly associated with the early failure rate.

CONCLUSION

The early failure rate of POEM used to treat primary achalasia is <10%. Younger age, type I/III achalasia, and a high pre-POEM ES were significantly associated with failure.

Intrarectal injections of botulinum toxin versus placebo for the treatment of urge faecal incontinence in adults (FI-Toxin): a double-blind, multicentre, randomised, controlled phase 3 study

BACKGROUND

Non-randomised studies assessing intrarectal botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) injections for faecal incontinence are promising. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of BoNTA for the treatment of faecal incontinence in a randomised study.

METHODS

In this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, we included adult patients who had at least one urgency or faecal incontinence episode per week for at least 3 months and who had experienced a failure of conservative or surgical treatment from eight French specialist hospital units with the skills to manage patients with faecal incontinence. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) by a central web form to receive intrarectal submucosal injections of either 200 units of BoNTA (Botox; Allergan, Irvine, CA, USA; BoNTA group) or an equivalent volume of saline (placebo group), stratified by Cleveland Clinic Severity scores (CCS score; ≥12 or <12). Patients, investigators, study site staff, and sponsor personnel were masked to treatment allocation up to the 6-month visit. The primary endpoint was the number of episodes of faecal incontinence and urgency per day assessed using 21-day patient bowel diaries 3 months after the treatment. The primary analysis was performed using a modified intention-to-treat (mITT) approach (ie, in all the randomised patients who had received a treatment) with adjustment for baseline faecal incontinence and urgency episodes. After the final data collection at 6 months after injections, patients were unmasked and offered the BoNTA treatment if they were in the placebo group (rescue therapy) without masking, with an additional 6 months of safety follow-up. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02414425.

FINDINGS

Between Nov 25, 2015, and Nov 25, 2020, we randomly assigned 200 patients to receive either BoNTA (n=100) or placebo (n=100) injections. Due to withdrawals before the injections, 96 patients were included in the BoNTA group and 95 patients were included in the placebo group (mITT analysis). The mean number of faecal incontinence and urgency episodes per day in the BoNTA group decreased from 1·9 (SD 2·2) at baseline to 0·8 (1·8) at 3 months after the injections, and from 1·4 (1·1) to 1·0 (1·0) in the placebo group, with a baseline-adjusted mean group difference at 3 months estimated at -0·51 (95% CI -0·80 to -0·21, p=0·0008). No serious treatment-related adverse events were reported in the trial. The most frequently reported non-serious adverse event (treatment related or not) following the BoNTA or placebo injections was constipation (reported in 68 [40%] of 169 patients who received the BoNTA injections and 38 [40%] of 95 patients who received placebo injections).

INTERPRETATION

BoNTA injections are an efficacious treatment for urge faecal incontinence. Further research will define the optimum selection criteria, dose, site of injection, re-injection frequency, and long-term results.

FUNDING

General Direction of Healthcare (French Ministry of Health).

Updates to the modern diagnosis of GERD: Lyon consensus 2.0

The Lyon Consensus provides conclusive criteria for and against the diagnosis of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and adjunctive metrics that consolidate or refute GERD diagnosis when primary criteria are borderline or inconclusive. An international core and working group was assembled to evaluate research since publication of the original Lyon Consensus, and to vote on statements collaboratively developed to update criteria. The Lyon Consensus 2.0 provides a modern definition of actionable GERD, where evidence from oesophageal testing supports revising, escalating or personalising GERD management for the symptomatic patient. Symptoms that have a high versus low likelihood of relationship to reflux episodes are described. Unproven versus proven GERD define diagnostic strategies and testing options. Patients with no prior GERD evidence (unproven GERD) are studied using prolonged wireless pH monitoring or catheter-based pH or pH-monitoring off antisecretory medication, while patients with conclusive GERD evidence (proven GERD) and persisting symptoms are evaluated using pH-impedance monitoring while on optimised antisecretory therapy. The major changes from the original Lyon Consensus criteria include establishment of Los Angeles grade B oesophagitis as conclusive GERD evidence, description of metrics and thresholds to be used with prolonged wireless pH monitoring, and inclusion of parameters useful in diagnosis of refractory GERD when testing is performed on antisecretory therapy in proven GERD. Criteria that have not performed well in the diagnosis of actionable GERD have been retired. Personalisation of investigation and management to each patient's unique presentation will optimise GERD diagnosis and management.

Time trend in surgical indications and outcomes in ulcerative colitis-A two decades in-depth retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent data regarding the impact of biologics and new surgical techniques on the indications and outcomes of colectomy for ulcerative colitis (UC) are limited.

AIMS

The present study aimed at determining the trend of colectomy in UC by comparing colectomy indications and outcomes between 2000 and 2010 and 2011-2020.

METHODS

This observational retrospective study was conducted in two tertiary hospitals, including consecutive patients who underwent colectomy between 2000 and 2020. All data concerning UC history, treatment and surgeries were collected.

RESULTS

Among the 286 patients included, 87 underwent colectomy in 2001-2010 and 199 in 2011-2020. Patients' characteristics were similar between groups, except for prior biologic exposure (50.6 % vs. 74.9%; p<0.001). The indications of colectomy significantly decreased for refractory UC (50.6 % vs. 37.7%; p = 0.042), but were similar for acute severe UC (36.8 % vs. 42.2%; p = 0.390) and (pre)neoplastic lesions (12.6 % vs. 20.1%; p = 0.130). A widespread use of laparoscopy (47.7 % vs. 81.4%; p<0.001) was associated with fewer early complications (12.6 % vs. 5.5%; p = 0.038).

CONCLUSION

Over the last two decades, the proportion of surgery for refractory UC significantly decreased compared to other surgical indications while surgical outcomes improved despite larger exposure to biologics.

Deep ulcers are associated with increased C-reactive protein in active ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Increased C-reactive protein (CRP) is used to diagnose and predict response to treatment in acute severe ulcerative colitis (UC).

AIMS

To investigate the connection between CRP elevation and deep ulcers in UC.

METHODS

Patients with active UC were enrolled in a multicenter prospective cohort and a retrospective cohort of consecutive patients undergoing colectomy from 2012 to 2019.

RESULTS

Forty-one (9 (22%) with deep ulcers) patients were included in the prospective cohort: 4/5 (80%) patients with CRP > 100 mg/L, 2/10 (20%) patients with CRP between 30 and 100 mg/L and 3/26 (12%) patients with CRP < 30 mg/L had deep ulcers (p = 0.006). In the retrospective cohort [46 patients (31 (67%) with deep ulcers)], 14/14 (100%) patients with CRP > 100 mg/L, 11/17 (65%) patients with CRP between 30 and 100 mg/l and 6/15 (40%) patients with CRP < 30 mg/L had deep ulcers (p = 0.001). Positive predictive value of CRP > 100 mg/l for presence of deep ulcers was 80% and 100% in both cohorts, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

CRP elevation is a robust surrogate marker for presence of deep ulcers in UC. Elevated CRP or presence of deep ulcers could influence the choice of medical therapy in acute severe UC.

Interferential therapy for chronic constipation in adults: The CON-COUR randomizedcontrolled trial

BACKGROUND

Chronic constipation (CC) is a frequent condition, and the first-line treatment includes dietary rules, the use of laxatives, and biofeedback for evacuation disorders. However, almost half of the patients are dissatisfied with their current treatment. We report the first double-blind randomized multicenter trial assessing the effectiveness of transabdominal electrical stimulation by interferential therapy (IFT) in the treatment of CC in adults.

METHODS

A prospective, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled, parallel-group, phase 3 trial was conducted at 7 centers in France. The primary endpoint was 8-week efficacy as defined by the number of complete spontaneous bowel movements during the last 4 weeks of the 8-week stimulation period. Secondary endpoints included the evaluation of the effects of IFT on symptoms (Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms questionnair (PAC-SYM)), quality of life (QOL) (Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life), Colonic transit time (CTT), anorectal manometry, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

The proportion of 8-week responders was not significantly different between the two groups (73.2% in the IFT group vs. 67.1% in the sham group). After 8 weeks of stimulation, the mean overall PAC-SYM score and the mean reduction in the overall PAC-SYM score were significantly greater in the IFT group than in the sham group. No differences were observed concerning CTT, anorectal manometry, or patient satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the primary endpoint was not reached, IFT can significantly alleviate the symptoms and improve the QOL of CC patients. It can be assumed that new treatments require different modes of evaluation and that the assessment of patient-reported outcomes may become a priority among therapeutic targets of CC. Trial registration number NCT02381665.

Gastric electrical stimulation versus per-oral pyloromyotomy for the treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with gastroparesis: An observational study of two cohorts

BACKGROUND

Both gastric electrical stimulation (GES) and gastric-peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) can be offered to patients with gastroparesis and predominant nausea and vomiting. The study's aim was to compare GES and G-POEM efficacy on nausea and vomiting scores in patients with gastroparesis.

METHODS

Two multicenter cohorts of patients with medically refractory gastroparesis with predominant nausea and vomiting (defined as a score >2 on nausea and vomiting subscale that varied from 0 to 4) were treated either with GES (n = 34) or G-POEM (n = 30) and were followed for 24 months (M). Clinical response was defined as a decrease of ≥1 point in nausea and vomiting subscale without premature exclusion due to switch from one to the other technique before M24. Changes in symptomatic scales and quality of life were also monitored.

KEY RESULTS

Patients from both groups were comparable although the mean score of nausea and vomiting subscale was higher in GES (3.0) compared to G-POEM group (2.6; p = 0.01). At M24, clinical response was achieved in 21/34 (61.7%) patients with GES and in 21/30 (70.0%; p = 0.60) patients with G-POEM. Mean scores of nausea and vomiting subscale decreased at M24 in both GES (from 3.0 to 1.6; p < 0.001) and G-POEM (from 2.6 to 1.2; p < 0.001) groups, although there was no difference between groups (difference adjusted from baseline: -0.28 [-0.77; 0.19]; p = 0.24). Likewise, symptomatic and quality of life scores improved at M24 in both groups, without difference according to treatment group.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

At M24, we did not observe significant difference in efficacy of GES and G-POEM in medically refractory gastroparesis with predominant nausea and vomiting.

The PRSS3P2 and TRY7 deletion copy number variant modifies risk for chronic pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

PRSS1 and PRSS2 constitute the only functional copies of a tandemly-arranged five-trypsinogen-gene cluster (i.e., PRSS1, PRSS3P1, PRSS3P2, TRY7 and PRSS2) on chromosome 7q35. Variants in PRSS1 and PRSS2, including missense and copy number variants (CNVs), have been reported to predispose to or protect against chronic pancreatitis (CP). We wondered whether a common trypsinogen pseudogene deletion CNV (that removes two of the three trypsinogen pseudogenes, PRSS3P2 and TRY7) might be associated with CP causation/predisposition.

METHODS

We analyzed the common PRSS3P2 and TRY7 deletion CNV in a total of 1536 CP patients and 3506 controls from France, Germany, India and Japan by means of quantitative fluorescent multiplex polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that the deletion CNV variant was associated with a protective effect against CP in the French, German and Japanese cohorts whilst a trend toward the same association was noted in the Indian cohort. Meta-analysis under a dominant model yielded a pooled odds ratio (OR) of 0.68 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.52-0.89; p = 0.005) whereas an allele-based meta-analysis yielded a pooled OR of 0.84 (95% CI 0.77-0.92; p = 0.0001). This protective effect is explicable by reference to the recent finding that the still functional PRSS3P2/TRY7 pseudogene enhancers upregulate pancreatic PRSS2 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

The common PRSS3P2 and TRY7 deletion CNV was associated with a reduced risk for CP. This finding provides additional support for the emerging view that dysregulated PRSS2 expression represents a discrete mechanism underlying CP predisposition or protection.

Comparative Effectiveness of Ustekinumab and Anti-TNF Agent as First-Line Biological Therapy in Luminal Crohn's Disease: A Retrospective Study From 2 Referral Centers

BACKGROUND

Real-life data on the efficacy of ustekinumab as first-line therapy for the treatment of luminal Crohn's disease (CD) compared with anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents are lacking. We compared the clinical response rates at 3 months in 2 cohorts of biologic-naïve patients treated by ustekinumab and anti-TNF agents.

METHODS

Biologic-naïve patients starting either ustekinumab or an anti-TNF agent for luminal CD between 2016 and 2019 in 2 tertiary centers were retrospectively included. The primary endpoint was clinical response at 3 months, defined as a Harvey-Bradshaw Index <4 or a 3-point drop in the score without steroids, need for CD-related surgery, or treatment discontinuation owing to failure or intolerance. Patients treated with ustekinumab were matched to patients receiving anti-TNF agents by a propensity score algorithm.

RESULTS

We included 156 patients starting anti-TNF agents (95 adalimumab and 61 infliximab) and 50 ustekinumab. After matching, clinical response rates at 3 months were 64% and 86% in the ustekinumab and anti-TNF groups, respectively (P = .01). At 12 months, in multivariate analysis adjusted for disease duration, location, concomitant immunosuppressant and steroids, and symptoms, clinical remission was independently associated with the biological therapy received (odds ratio, 2.6 for anti-TNF agent vs ustekinumab; P = .02). With a median follow-up duration of 40 (interquartile range, 23-52) months, no difference was observed in terms of time to drug withdrawal (P = .29) or safety.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective real-world data suggest that an anti-TNF agent as a first-line biological therapy is associated with higher rates of response at 3 months than ustekinumab in patients with CD.

A single dedicated vaccination visit improves vaccination coverage of patients with inflammatory bowel disease

INTRODUCTION

Patients treated with biologics for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an increased risk of severe infections. Real-life vaccination coverage in this population remains low despite international vaccination guidelines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a dedicated vaccination visit on vaccination coverage.

METHODS

A dedicated vaccination visit was offered to all patients admitted for an infusion of a biologic in a tertiary IBD center during a 4-week period. At baseline, vaccination status was collected. Patients received specific information on recommended vaccinations. Perceived utility of both vaccination and the dedicated visit were assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS). Vaccination coverage was reassessed 6 months later by phone call.

RESULTS

Among the 207 patients analyzed (1 patient declined), rates of vaccination at baseline and 6 months later against diphtheria were 52.7% and 68.6% (p < 0.001), tetanus 55.1% and 70% (p < 0.001), poliomyelitis 51.7% and 68.6% (p < 0.001), pertussis 33.3% and 51.2% (p < 0.001), hepatitis B virus (HBV) 61.4% and 66.7% (p < 0.01), pneumococcus 15.5% and 42.0% (p < 0.001), influenza 29.5% and 36.2% (p < 0.01), and meningococcus C 11.6% and 13.0% (p = 0.083), respectively. A quarter of the patients declined at least one recommended vaccination after the visit. The main reason for this refusal was distrust toward one or more vaccines.

CONCLUSION

A single visit dedicated to vaccination significantly increases rates of vaccination in patients with IBD treated with biologics.

Compliance with Gluten Free Diet Is Associated with Better Quality of Life in Celiac Disease

The quality of life (QOL) of patients with celiac disease (CD) can be altered by both symptoms of the disease and by the restrictions of the gluten-free diet (GFD). The objective was to determine the factors associated with better QOL in a large cohort of CD patients. A link to an online survey was sent to the members of the French Association of Gluten Intolerant People (AFDIAG). The French-Celiac Disease Questionnaire (F-CDQ), scoring from 0 to 100, was used to measure the QOL. Other data collected were sociodemographic characteristics, information on CD, purchasing and consumption habits of gluten-free products, and a self-assessment scale (ranging from 0 to 10) to determine the compliance with the GFD. Among the 907 CD patients who returned the questionnaire, 787 were analyzed (638 women (81%); median age: 49 years; 71% with self-assessed GFD compliance > 8). Their median F-CDQ was 73 (range: 59−82). In multivariate analysis, the main factors associated with a better quality of life were the long duration of the GFD, good compliance with the GFD, and the number of follow-up visits. Compliance with and duration of the GFD are associated with a better quality of life in patients with CD. Taking this into consideration would offset its restrictive aspect and improve its adherence.

Breaks in peristaltic integrity predict abnormal esophageal bolus clearance better than contraction vigor or residual pressure at the esophagogastric junction

BACKGROUND

High-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) evaluates esophageal peristalsis and bolus transit. We used esophageal impedance integral (EII), the ratio between bolus presence before and after an expected peristaltic wave, to evaluate predictors of bolus transit.

METHODS

From HRIM studies performed on 61 healthy volunteers (median age 27 years, 48%F), standard metrics were extracted from each of 10 supine water swallows: distal contractile integral (DCI, mmHg cm s), integrated relaxation pressure (IRP, mmHg), and breaks in peristaltic integrity (cm, using 20 mmHg isobaric contour). Pressure and impedance coordinates for each swallow were exported into a dedicated, python-based program for EII calculation (EII ratio ≥ 0.3 = abnormal bolus clearance). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess predictors of abnormal bolus clearance.

KEY RESULTS

Of 591 swallows, 80.9% were intact, 10.5% were weak, and 8.6% failed. Visual analysis overestimated abnormal bolus clearance compared to EII ratio (p ≤ 0.01). Bolus clearance was complete (median EII ratio 0.0, IQR 0-0.12) in 82.0% of intact swallows in contrast to 53.3% of weak swallows (EII ratio 0.29, IQR 0.0-0.57), and 19.6% of failed swallows (EII ratio 0.5, IQR 0.34-0.73, p < 0.001). EII correlated best with break length (ρ = 0.52, p < 0.001), compared to IRP (ρ: -0.17) or DCI (ρ: -0.42). On ROC analysis, breaks predicted abnormal bolus transit better than DCI or IRP (AUC 0.79 vs. 0.25 vs. 0.44, p ≤ 0.03 for each). On logistic regression, breaks remained independently predictive of abnormal bolus transit (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Breaks in peristaltic integrity predict abnormal bolus clearance better than DCI or IRP in healthy asymptomatic subjects.

Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Management Update

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal disorders. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are effective in healing lesions and improving symptoms in most cases, although up to 40% of GERD patients do not respond adequately to PPI therapy. Refractory GERD (rGERD) is one of the most challenging problems, given its impact on the quality of life and consumption of health care resources. The definition of rGERD is a controversial topic as it has not been unequivocally established. Indeed, some patients unresponsive to PPIs who experience symptoms potentially related to GERD may not have GERD; in this case the definition could be replaced with “reflux-like PPI-refractory symptoms.” Patients with persistent reflux-like symptoms should undergo a diagnostic workup aimed at finding objective evidence of GERD through endoscopic and pH-impedance investigations. The management strategies regarding rGERD, apart from a careful check of patient's compliance with PPIs, a possible change in the timing of their administration and the choice of a PPI with a different metabolic pathway, include other pharmacologic treatments. These include histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), alginates, antacids and mucosal protective agents, potassium competitive acid blockers (PCABs), prokinetics, gamma aminobutyric acid-B (GABA-B) receptor agonists and metabotropic glutamate receptor-5 (mGluR5) antagonists, and pain modulators. If there is no benefit from medical therapy, but there is objective evidence of GERD, invasive antireflux options should be evaluated after having carefully explained the risks and benefits to the patient. The most widely performed invasive antireflux option remains laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS), even if other, less invasive, interventions have been suggested in the last few decades, including endoscopic transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), magnetic sphincter augmentation (LINX) or radiofrequency therapy (Stretta). Due to the different mechanisms underlying rGERD, the most effective strategy can vary, and it should be tailored to each patient. The aim of this paper is to review the different management options available to successfully deal with rGERD.

Value of pH Impedance Monitoring While on Twice-Daily Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy to Identify Need for Escalation of Reflux Management

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Acid exposure time (AET) and reflux episode thresholds from the Lyon Consensus may not apply for pH impedance studies performed while on proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. We aimed to determine metrics from "on PPI" pH impedance studies predicting need for escalation of therapy.

METHODS

De-identified pH impedance studies performed while on twice-daily PPI (Diversatek, Boulder, CO) in healthy volunteers (n = 66, median age 37.5 years, 43.9% female), and patients with proven gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (European heartburn-predominant cohort: n = 43, median age 57.0 years, 55.8% female; North American regurgitation-predominant cohort: n = 42, median age 41.6 years, 42.9% female) were analyzed. Median values and interquartile ranges for pH impedance metrics in healthy volunteers were compared with proven GERD patients with and without 50% symptom improvement on validated measures. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses identified optimal thresholds predicting symptom response.

RESULTS

Both conventional and novel reflux metrics were similar between PPI responders and nonresponders (P ≥ .1 for each) despite differences from healthy volunteers. Combinations of metrics associated with conclusively abnormal reflux burden (AET >4%, >80 reflux episodes) were seen in 32.6% and 40.5% of heartburn and regurgitation-predominant patients, respectively, 57.1% and 82.4% of whom reported nonresponse; and 85% with these metrics improved with invasive GERD management. On ROC analysis, AET threshold of 0.5% modestly predicted nonresponse (sensitivity, 0.62; specificity, 0.51; P = .22), and 40 reflux episodes had better performance characteristics (sensitivity, 0.80; specificity, 0.51; P = .002); 79% with these metrics improved with invasive GERD management.

CONCLUSION

Combinations of abnormal "on PPI" pH impedance metrics are associated with PPI nonresponse in proven GERD patients, and can be targeted for treatment escalation, including surgery, particularly in regurgitation-predominant GERD.

A novel bowel rehabilitation programme after total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer: the BOREAL pilot study

AIM

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) following sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer has a high prevalence, with an impact on long-term bowel dysfunction and quality of life. We designed the bowel rehabilitation programme (BOREAL) as a proactive strategy to assess and treat patients with LARS. The BOREAL programme consists of a stepwise approach of escalating treatments: medical management (steps 0-1), pelvic floor physiotherapy, biofeedback and transanal irrigation (step 2), sacral nerve neuromodulation (step 3), percutaneous endoscopic caecostomy and anterograde enema (step 4) and definitive colostomy (step 5).

METHODS

A pilot study was undertaken to assess the feasibility of collecting LARS data routinely with the parallel implementation of the BOREAL programme. All patients who underwent total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer between February 2017 and March 2019 were included. LARS was assessed using the LARS score and the Wexner Faecal Incontinence score at 30 days and 3, 6, 9 and 12 months postoperatively. A good functional result was considered to be a combined LARS score <20 and/or a Wexner score <4.

RESULTS

In all, 137 patients were included. Overall compliance with the BOREAL programme was 72.9%. Major LARS decreased from 48% at 30 days postoperatively to 12% at 12 months, with a concomitant improvement in overall good function from 33% to 77%, P < 0.001. The majority of patients (n = 106, 77%) required medical management of their LARS.

CONCLUSION

The BOREAL programme demonstrates the acceptability, feasibility and effectiveness of implementing a responsive, stepwise programme for detecting and treating LARS.

United European Gastroenterology (UEG) and European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) consensus on functional dyspepsia

BACKGROUND

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is one of the most common conditions in clinical practice. In spite of its prevalence, FD is associated with major uncertainties in terms of its definition, underlying pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

METHODS

A Delphi consensus was initiated with 41 experts from 22 European countries who conducted a literature summary and voting process on 87 statements. Quality of evidence was evaluated using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Consensus (defined as >80% agreement) was reached for 36 statements.

RESULTS

The panel agreed with the definition in terms of its cardinal symptoms (early satiation, postprandial fullness, epigastric pain, and epigastric burning), its subdivision into epigastric pain syndrome and postprandial distress syndrome, and the presence of accessory symptoms (upper abdominal bloating, nausea, belching), and overlapping conditions. Also, well accepted are the female predominance of FD, its impact on quality of life and health costs, and acute gastrointestinal infections, and anxiety as risk factors. In terms of pathophysiological mechanisms, the consensus supports a role for impaired gastric accommodation, delayed gastric emptying, hypersensitivity to gastric distention, Helicobacter pylori infection, and altered central processing of signals from the gastroduodenal region. There is consensus that endoscopy is mandatory for establishing a firm diagnosis of FD, but that in primary care, patients without alarm symptoms or risk factors can be managed without endoscopy. There is consensus that H. pylori status should be determined in every patient with dyspeptic symptoms and H. pylori positive patients should receive eradication therapy. Also, proton pump inhibitor therapy is considered an effective therapy for FD, but no other treatment approach reached a consensus. The long-term prognosis and life expectancy are favorable.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

A multinational group of European experts summarized the current state of consensus on the definition, diagnosis and management of FD.

Low FODMAPs diet or usual dietary advice for the treatment of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease: An open-labeled randomized trial

BACKGROUND

The low FODMAPs (fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides, and polyols) diet improves lower gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients suffering from proton pump inhibitor (PPI) refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have limited treatment options. We investigated the efficacy of a low FODMAPs diet in patients with PPI refractory GERD.

METHODS

This multicenter, randomized, open-label study compared the efficacy of a 4-week low FODMAPs diet and usual dietary advice (ie, low-fat diet and head of bed elevation) in patients with symptomatic PPI refractory GERD, defined by a Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ) score >3 and abnormal pH-impedance monitoring on PPIs. The primary endpoint was the percentage of responders (RDQ ≤3) at the end of the diet.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients (55% women, median age 45 years) were included, 16 randomized in the low FODMAPs diet group and 15 in the usual dietary advice group. Adherence to the assigned diet was good, with a significant difference in the FODMAPs intake per day between the low FODMAPs diet (2.5 g) and the usual dietary advice group (13 g) (p < 0.001). There was no difference in response rates (RDQ score ≤3) between the low FODMAPs diet (6/16, 37.5%) and usual dietary advice (3/15, 20%) groups (p = 0.43). Total RDQ score and dyspepsia subscore decreased significantly over time in both groups (p = 0.002), with no difference according to the assigned diet group (p = 0.85).

CONCLUSION

Low FODMAPs diet and usual dietary advice have similar but limited beneficial effects on symptoms in patients with PPI refractory GERD.

Chicago Classification update (V4.0): Technical review on diagnostic criteria for ineffective esophageal motility and absent contractility

Esophageal hypomotility disorders manifest with abnormal esophageal body contraction vigor, breaks in peristaltic integrity, or failure of peristalsis in the context of normal lower esophageal sphincter relaxation on esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM). The Chicago Classification version 4.0 recognizes two hypomotility disorders, ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) and absent contractility, while fragmented peristalsis has been incorporated into the IEM definition. Updated criteria for ineffective swallows consist of weak esophageal body contraction vigor measured using distal contractile integral (DCI, 100-450 mmHg·cm·s), transition zone defects >5 cm measured using a 20 mmHg isobaric contour, or failure of peristalsis (DCI < 100 mmHg·cm·s). More than 70% ineffective swallows and/or ≥50% failed swallows are required for a conclusive diagnosis of IEM. When the diagnosis is inconclusive (50%-70% ineffective swallows), supplementary evidence from multiple rapid swallows (absence of contraction reserve), barium radiography (abnormal bolus clearance), or HRM with impedance (abnormal bolus clearance) could support a diagnosis of IEM. Absent contractility requires 100% failed peristalsis, consistent with previous versions of the classification. Consideration needs to be given for the possibility of achalasia in absent contractility with dysphagia despite normal IRP, and alternate complementary tests (including timed upright barium esophagram and functional lumen imaging probe) are recommended to confirm or refute the presence of achalasia. Future research to quantify esophageal bolus retention on stationary HRM with impedance and to understand contraction vigor thresholds that predict bolus clearance will provide further refinement to diagnostic criteria for esophageal hypomotility disorders in future iterations of the Chicago Classification.

Esophagogastric junction morphology and contractile integral on high-resolution manometry in asymptomatic healthy volunteers: An international multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Esophagogastric junction contractile integral (EGJ-CI) and EGJ morphology are high-resolution manometry (HRM) metrics that assess EGJ barrier function. Normative data standardized across world regions and HRM manufacturers are limited.

METHODS

Our aim was to determine normative EGJ metrics in a large international cohort of healthy volunteers undergoing HRM (Medtronic, Laborie, and Diversatek software) acquired from 16 countries in four world regions. EGJ-CI was calculated by the same two investigators using a distal contractile integral-like measurement across the EGJ for three respiratory cycles and corrected for respiration (mm Hg cm), using manufacturer-specific software tools. EGJ morphology was designated according to Chicago Classification v3.0. Median EGJ-CI values were calculated across age, genders, HRM systems, and regions.

RESULTS

Of 484 studies (28.0 years, 56.2% F, 60.7% Medtronic studies, 26.0% Laborie, and 13.2% Diversatek), EGJ morphology was type 1 in 97.1%. Median EGJ-CI was similar between Medtronic (37.0 mm Hg cm, IQR 23.6-53.7 mm Hg cm) and Diversatek (34.9 mm Hg cm, IQR 22.1-56.1 mm Hg cm, P = 0.87), but was significantly higher using Laborie equipment (56.5 mm Hg cm, IQR 35.0-75.3 mm Hg cm, P < 0.001). 5^th percentile EGJ-CI values ranged from 6.9 to 12.1 mm Hg cm. EGJ-CI values were consistent across world regions, but different between manufacturers even within the same world region (P ≤ 0.001). Within Medtronic studies, EGJ-CI and basal LESP were similar in younger and older individuals (P ≥ 0.3) but higher in women (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

EGJ morphology is predominantly type 1 in healthy adults. EGJ-CI varies widely in health, with significant gender influence, but is consistent within each HRM system. Manufacturer-specific normative values should be utilized for clinical HRM interpretation.

Evolution of Endoscopic Lesions in Steroid-Refractory Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis Responding to Infliximab or Cyclosporine

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Few data on the evolution of endoscopic findings are available in patients with acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC). The aim of this study was to describe this evolution in a prospective cohort.

METHODS

Patients admitted for a steroid-refractory ASUC and included in a randomized trial comparing infliximab and cyclosporine were eligible if they achieved steroid-free clinical remission at day 98. Flexible sigmoidoscopies were performed at baseline, days 7, 42 and 98. Ulcerative colitis endoscopic index of severity (UCEIS) and its sub-scores - vascular pattern, bleeding and ulceration/erosion - were post-hoc calculated. Global endoscopic remission was defined by a UCEIS of 0, and partial endoscopic remission by any UCEIS sub-score of 0.

RESULTS

Among the 55 patients analyzed (29 infliximab and 26 cyclosporine), 49 (83%) had UCEIS ≥6 at baseline at baseline. Partial endoscopic remission rates were higher for bleeding than for vascular pattern and for ulcerations/erosions at day 7 (20% vs. 4% and 5% (n = 55); p = .004 and p=.04), for bleeding and ulceration/erosion than for vascular pattern at day 42 [63% and 65% vs. 33% (n=54); p<.001 for both] and at day 98 [78% and 92% vs. 56% (n = 50); p = .007 and p < .001]. Global endoscopic remission rates at day 98 were higher in patients treated with infliximab than with cyclosporine [73% vs. 25% (n = 26 and 24); p < .001].

CONCLUSION

In steroid-refractory ASUC patients responding to a second-line medical therapy, endoscopic remission process started with bleeding remission and was not achieved in half the patients at day 98 for vascular pattern. Infliximab provided a higher endoscopic remission rate than cyclosporine at day 98.

Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation or surveillance in patients with Barrett's oesophagus with confirmed low-grade dysplasia: a multicentre randomised trial

OBJECTIVE

Due to an annual progression rate of Barrett's oesophagus (BO) with low-grade dysplasia (LGD) between 9% and 13% per year endoscopic ablation therapy is preferred to surveillance. Since this recommendation is based on only one randomised trial, we aimed at checking these results by another multicentre randomised trial with a similar design.

DESIGN

A prospective randomised study was performed in 14 centres comparing radiofrequency ablation (RFA) (maximum of 4 sessions) to annual endoscopic surveillance, including patients with a confirmed diagnosis of BO with LGD. Primary outcome was the prevalence of LGD at 3 years. Secondary outcomes were the prevalence of LGD at 1 year, the complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CE-IM) at 3 years, the rate of neoplastic progression at 3 years and the treatment-related morbidity.

RESULTS

125 patients were initially included, of whom 82 with confirmed LGD (76 men, mean age 62.3 years) were finally randomised, 40 patients in the RFA and 42 in the surveillance group. At 3 years, CE-IM rates were 35% vs 0% in the RFA and surveillance groups, respectively (p<0.001). At the same time, the prevalence LGD was 34.3% (95% CI 18.6 to 50.0) in the RFA group vs 58.1% (95% CI 40.7 to 75.4) in the surveillance group (OR=0.38 (95% CI 0.14 to 1.02), p=0.05). Neoplastic progression was found in 12.5% (RFA) vs 26.2% (surveillance; p=0.15). The complication rate was maximal after the first RFA treatment (16.9%).

CONCLUSION

RFA modestly reduced the prevalence of LGD as well as progression risk at 3 years. The risk-benefit balance of endoscopic ablation therapy should therefore be carefully weighted against surveillance in patients with BO with confirmed LGD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01360541.

Overlap of functional heartburn and reflux hypersensitivity with proven gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

When esophageal acid exposure time (AET) is physiologic, ROME IV stratifies functional esophageal disorders into functional heartburn (FH, with negative reflux-symptom association) and reflux hypersensitivity (RH, with positive reflux-symptom association), and hypothesizes that FH/RH could overlap with proven gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We compared conventional FH/RH diagnosed off antisecretory therapy with overlap FH/RH coexisting with proven GERD.

METHODS

Adult patients with heartburn underwent pH-impedance testing on therapy (proven GERD) and off therapy (unproven GERD) and completed validated questionnaires defining symptoms (Reflux Diagnostic Questionnaire, RDQ), affective state (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS; Visceral Sensitivity Index, VSI), and functional diagnoses (irritable bowel syndrome, IBS; functional dyspepsia, FD on ROME diagnostic questionnaire). AET (pathologic: >6%, physiologic <4%) and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) were calculated. Clinical, psychological, and functional profiles were compared between FH and RH and to a comparison cohort of non-erosive reflux disease (NERD, AET > 6%).

KEY RESULTS

Study patients included 19 with RH (10 with overlap RH), 60 with FH (31 with overlap FH), and 26 patients with NERD. Clinical, psychological, and functional profiles of conventional FH/RH were similar to overlap FH/RH. Compared with NERD, combined FH and RH cohorts had higher anxiety scores, and lower proportions with IBS. Compared with FH with low MNBI, FH defined using both normal AET and normal MNBI had higher depression scores (p = 0.008), and trended toward higher anxiety scores (p = 0.059).

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Conventional and overlap FH and RH have similar clinical, psychological and functional profiles, thereby proving ROME IV hypotheses.

United European Gastroenterology (UEG) and European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) consensus on functional dyspepsia

Background

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is one of the most common conditions in clinical practice. In spite of its prevalence, FD is associated with major uncertainties in terms of its definition, underlying pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

Methods

A Delphi consensus was initiated with 41 experts from 22 European countries who conducted a literature summary and voting process on 87 statements. Quality of evidence was evaluated using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Consensus (defined as >80% agreement) was reached for 36 statements.

Results

The panel agreed with the definition in terms of its cardinal symptoms (early satiation, postprandial fullness, epigastric pain, and epigastric burning), its subdivision into epigastric pain syndrome and postprandial distress syndrome, and the presence of accessory symptoms (upper abdominal bloating, nausea, belching), and overlapping conditions. Also, well accepted are the female predominance of FD, its impact on quality of life and health costs, and acute gastrointestinal infections, and anxiety as risk factors. In terms of pathophysiological mechanisms, the consensus supports a role for impaired gastric accommodation, delayed gastric emptying, hypersensitivity to gastric distention, Helicobacter pylori infection, and altered central processing of signals from the gastroduodenal region. There is consensus that endoscopy is mandatory for establishing a firm diagnosis of FD, but that in primary care, patients without alarm symptoms or risk factors can be managed without endoscopy. There is consensus that H. pylori status should be determined in every patient with dyspeptic symptoms and H. pylori positive patients should receive eradication therapy. Also, proton pump inhibitor therapy is considered an effective therapy for FD, but no other treatment approach reached a consensus. The long‐term prognosis and life expectancy are favorable.

Conclusions and Inferences

A multinational group of European experts summarized the current state of consensus on the definition, diagnosis and management of FD.

Current knowledge

Functional dyspepsia is one of the most common conditions encountered in clinical practice.

There is a lack of guidance for clinicians in guiding diagnosis and treatment of this prevalent condition.

No treatments are currently approved for the treatment of functional dyspepsia in Europe.

What is new here

A Delphi panel consisting of 41 experts from 22 European countries established the level of consensus on 87 statements regarding functional dyspepsia.

The statements reaching consensus serve to guide clinicians in recognizing, diagnosing and treating FD in clinical practice.

Endoscopy is mandatory for establishing a firm diagnosis of functional dyspepsia D, but in primary care patients without alarm symptoms or risk factors can be managed without endoscopy.

Helicobacter pylori status should be determined in every patient with dyspeptic symptoms and H. Pylori positive patients should receive eradication therapy.

Proton pump inhibitor‐therapy is considered an effective therapy for FD, but no other treatment approach reached consensus support.

ESNM/ANMS consensus paper: Diagnosis and management of refractory gastro-esophageal reflux disease

Up to 40% of patients with symptoms suspicious of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) do not respond completely to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. The term "refractory GERD" has been used loosely in the literature. A distinction should be made between refractory symptoms (ie, symptoms may or may not be GERD-related), refractory GERD symptoms (ie, persisting symptoms in patients with proven GERD, regardless of relationship to ongoing reflux), and refractory GERD (ie, objective evidence of GERD despite adequate medical management). The present ESNM/ANMS consensus paper proposes use the term "refractory GERD symptoms" only in patients with persisting symptoms and previously proven GERD by either endoscopy or esophageal pH monitoring. Even in this context, symptoms may or may not be reflux related. Objective evaluation, including endoscopy and esophageal physiologic testing, is requisite to provide insights into mechanisms of symptom generation and evidence of true refractory GERD. Some patients may have true ongoing refractory acid or weakly acidic reflux despite PPIs, while others have no evidence of ongoing reflux, and yet others have functional esophageal disorders (overlapping with proven GERD confirmed off therapy). In this context, attention should also be paid to supragastric belching and rumination syndrome, which may be important contributors to refractory symptoms.

The added value of symptom analysis during a rapid drink challenge in high-resolution esophageal manometry

INTRODUCTION

Patients with esophageal symptoms often remain with an uncertain diagnosis after high-resolution manometry.

AIM

To determine the added value of concomitant pressure and symptom analysis in response to a rapid drink challenge (RDC).

METHODS

In consecutive patients referred for esophageal manometry, a RDC consisting in free drinking of 200 ml of water as quick as possible was performed after the standard single water swallows manometry. Both pressure patterns and usual symptoms induced by the RDC were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 1319 patients were included, (64.7% women, mean age 58.2 years, range 11-90). There were significant differences in pressure responses between patients with obstructive disorders, major hypercontractile disorders, esophageal hypomotility disorders and normal motility. The RDC provoked usual symptoms in 388 (29.4%) patients, associated with hyperpressive and obstructive patterns in 14.0% and 16.6%, respectively. Reproduction of dysphagia and regurgitation (not pain) was significantly associated with abnormal pressure responses during the RDC (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). The RDC elicited both abnormal pressure patterns and symptoms in 6.2%, 1.6%, and 20.8% of patients with normal motility, ineffective esophageal motility, and esophago-gastric junction outflow obstruction, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Concomitant evaluation of symptoms and pressure responses to a RDC may increase the specificity of esophageal motor testing in patients with inconclusive diagnosis or normal esophageal motility.

COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown stress consequences in people with and without Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Background

While all resources have been mobilized to fight COVID-19, this study aimed to analyze the consequences of lockdown and pandemic stress in participants with and without Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Methodology

An online survey was proposed to people with or without IBS during the exponential phase of the pandemic in France. The questionnaire included questions about socio-demographic data, conditions of confinement, activities carried out, IBS characteristics, measurement of stress level, consequences on sleep, fatigue, anxiety and depression, and quality of life (both perceived non-specific and specific for IBS).

Results/Discussion

From March 31 to April 15, 2020, 304 participants, 232 with IBS and 72 without were included in the survey (mean age: 46.8 ± 16.8 years, female gender: 75.3%). Age, level of education, financial resources, living space per person and activities performed during confinement were identical in both groups. Stress linked to fear of COVID-19, lockdown and financial worries was at the same level in both groups, but the psychological consequences and deterioration of quality of life (QOL) were both higher in IBS participants. In a univariate analysis, teleworking, solitary confinement, and low household resources had a variable impact on the scores of depression, anxiety, fatigue and non-specific perceived QOL, but in a multivariate analysis, the only factor explaining a deterioration of non-specific QOL was the fact of suffering from IBS.

Conclusion/Perspectives

Stress linked to the COVID-19 pandemic and confinement is high and equivalent in both IBS and non-IBS participants, with higher psychological and QOL consequences in IBS patients who have altered coping capacities.

Management guidelines for low anterior resection syndrome - the MANUEL project

AIM

Little is known about the pathophysiology of low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), and evidence concerning the management of patients diagnosed with this condition is scarce. The aim of the LARS Expert Advisory Panel was to develop practical guidance for healthcare professionals dealing with LARS.

METHOD

The 'Management guidelines for low anterior resection syndrome' (MANUEL) project was promoted by a team of eight experts in the assessment and management of patients with LARS. After a face-to-face meeting, a strategy was agreed to create a comprehensive, practical guide covering all aspects that were felt to be clinically relevant. Eight themes were decided upon and working groups established. Each working group generated a draft; these were collated by another collaborator into a manuscript, after a conference call. This was circulated among the collaborators, and it was revised following the comments received. A lay patient revised the manuscript, and contributed to a section containing a patient's perspective. The manuscript was again circulated and finalized. A final teleconference was held at the end of the project.

RESULTS

The guidance covers all aspects of LARS management, from pathophysiology, to assessment and management. Given the lack of sound evidence and the often poor quality of the studies, most of the recommendations and conclusions are based on the opinions of the experts.

CONCLUSIONS

The MANUEL project provides an up-to-date practical summary of the available evidence concerning LARS, with useful directions for healthcare professional and patients suffering from this debilitating condition.

Esophageal motility disorders on high-resolution manometry: Chicago classification version 4.0©

Chicago Classification v4.0 (CCv4.0) is the updated classification scheme for esophageal motility disorders using metrics from high-resolution manometry (HRM). Fifty-two diverse international experts separated into seven working subgroups utilized formal validated methodologies over two-years to develop CCv4.0. Key updates in CCv.4.0 consist of a more rigorous and expansive HRM protocol that incorporates supine and upright test positions as well as provocative testing, a refined definition of esophagogastric junction (EGJ) outflow obstruction (EGJOO), more stringent diagnostic criteria for ineffective esophageal motility and description of baseline EGJ metrics. Further, the CCv4.0 sought to define motility disorder diagnoses as conclusive and inconclusive based on associated symptoms, and findings on provocative testing as well as supportive testing with barium esophagram with tablet and/or functional lumen imaging probe. These changes attempt to minimize ambiguity in prior iterations of Chicago Classification and provide more standardized and rigorous criteria for patterns of disorders of peristalsis and obstruction at the EGJ.

Jackhammer esophagus: Clinical presentation, manometric diagnosis, and therapeutic results-Results from a multicenter French cohort

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Jackhammer esophagus (JE) is a hypercontractile esophageal motor disorder defined by at least two swallows with a distal contractile integral (DCI) >8000 mm Hg.s.cm during high-resolution manometry (HRM). The relationship between symptoms and hypercontractility and the response to therapies have been poorly evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical presentation, manometric diagnosis, and therapeutic results in a large cohort of JE patients.

METHODS

Patients with JE diagnosed among the HRM tests performed in nine academic French centers from 01/01/2010 to 08/31/2016 were included. Patient charts were reviewed to collect clinical and therapeutic data.

RESULTS

Among the 16 264 HRM tests performed during this period, 227 patients (60.8 ± 13.8 years, 151 male) had JE (1.7%). Dysphagia was the most frequent symptom (74.6%), followed by regurgitation (37.1%) and chest pain (36.6%); 4.7% of the patients were asymptomatic. The diagnostic workup was heterogeneous, and only a minority of patients had esophageal biopsies. None of the individual symptoms were significantly associated with any of the manometric parameters defined, except for dysphagia, which was significantly associated with the mean of all DCIs >8000 mm Hg.s.cm (P = .04). Additionally, the number of symptoms was not associated with any manometric parameter. Medical treatment and endoscopic treatments had poor efficacy and a high relapse rate.

CONCLUSION

Jackhammer esophagus is a rare motility disorder. Diagnostic workup is heterogeneous and should be standardized. Symptoms are poorly associated with manometric parameters. The medical treatments and endoscopic therapies currently used are inefficient.

Normal values and regional differences in oesophageal impedance-pH metrics: a consensus analysis of impedance-pH studies from around the world

OBJECTIVE

Limitations of existing impedance-pH thresholds include small sample size of normative studies, inclusion of artefactual pH drops and incorrect identification of impedance reflux events. We aimed to obtain new impedance-pH thresholds from expert consensus analysis of tracings from a large number of healthy subjects.

DESIGN

Of 541 studies performed worldwide using two different systems (Diversatek, USA, and Laborie, Netherlands), 150 tracings with oesophageal diagnoses, behavioural disorders and study-related artefacts were excluded. The remainder studies were subject to two reviewer consensus analysis, in-person or through video conference, consisting of editing meals and pH drops, identification of impedance reflux and postreflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) using strict pre-established criteria and measurement of distal mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI).

RESULTS

Consensus analysis was performed in 391 tracings (age 32.7 years, range 18-71, 54.2% female). Normative thresholds were significantly different between Diversatek and Laborie (total acid exposure time: 2.8% and 5%; reflux episodes: 55 and 78; MNBI at 3 cm: 1400 and 1500 ohms, at 5 cm: 1400 and 1800 ohms). Males had higher acid exposure, more reflux episodes and lower MNBI. Significant regional differences were identified, including higher PSPW scores in Western countries, and higher MNBI in Asia using Diversatek, and higher acid exposure in the Netherlands, higher MNBI in Asia and South Africa, and lower MNBI in Turkey using Laborie.

CONCLUSION

Normal impedance-pH monitoring thresholds have regional and system-related differences. Clinical interpretation needs to use normal thresholds valid for the system used and world region, following careful editing of the tracings.

ESNM/ANMS Review. Diagnosis and management of globus sensation: A clinical challenge

Globus is a non-painful sensation of a tightness or a lump/foreign body in the throat that is not associated with dysphagia and may actually improve during meals. While several otorhinolaryngologic, thyroid, and esophageal disorders have been linked to globus, cause-and-effect relationships are difficult to establish. Consequently, though part of the evaluation, objective otorhinolaryngologic and esophageal testing is often negative. The presence of alarm symptoms, particularly pain, weight loss, dysphagia, or odynophagia is indications for objective testing. A diagnosis of idiopathic globus requires exclusion of pharyngeal, laryngeal, and esophageal disorders with laryngoscopy, endoscopy, high-resolution manometry, barium radiography, and/or ambulatory reflux monitoring. A trial of acid-suppressive therapy may be reasonable in the absence of alarm symptoms, especially if concurrent reflux symptoms are identified. Ablation of heterotopic gastric mucosa in the proximal esophagus has been reported to improve globus symptoms. Beyond these specific approaches, further management of idiopathic globus consists of reassurance, neuromodulators, and complementary approaches. Globus has a benign course with no long-term consequences, and the overall prognosis is good as the magnitude of symptoms may decline over time.

Ineffective esophageal motility and bolus clearance. A study with combined high-resolution manometry and impedance in asymptomatic controls and patients

BACKGROUND

The definition and relevance of ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) remains debated. Our aim was to determine motility patterns and symptoms associated with IEM defined as impaired bolus clearance.

METHODS

To define altered bolus clearance, normal range of swallows with complete bolus transit (CBT) on high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) was determined in 44 asymptomatic controls. The results were then applied to a cohort of 81 patients with esophageal symptoms to determine the motility patterns which best predicted altered bolus clearance. Subsequently, in a cohort of 281 consecutive patients the identified motility patterns were compared with patients' customary symptoms.

KEY RESULTS

In asymptomatic controls, the normal range of swallows with CBT was 50%-100%. In patients, altered bolus transit (<50% CBT) was only associated with 30% or more failed contractions (P < .001). Neither weak peristalsis nor absence of contraction reserve (CR) was associated with altered bolus clearance. The patterns which best predicted altered bolus clearance were failed contractions ≥30% (specificity 88.2% and sensitivity of 84.6%), and ≥70% ineffective (failed + weak) contractions (sensitivity 84.6% and specificity 80.9%). No motility pattern was correlated to symptom scores.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Based on bolus clearance assessed by HRIM, ≥30% failed contractions and ≥70% ineffective contractions have the best sensitivity and specificity to predict altered bolus clearance. Weak contractions and absence of CR are not relevant with respect to bolus clearance.

Randomised clinical trial: oesophageal radiofrequency energy delivery versus sham for PPI-refractory heartburn

BACKGROUND

Oesophageal radiofrequency reduces use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease responding to PPIs.

AIM

To determine the efficacy of oesophageal radiofrequency in patients with PPI-refractory heartburn.

METHODS

A randomised, double-blind, sham-controlled multicentre study was designed to assess the efficacy of oesophageal radiofrequency in PPI non-responding patients with heartburn. Patients had moderate-to-severe heartburn defined by at least 3 occurrences a week, and not improved by continuous PPI treatment. The primary endpoint was clinical success at week 24, defined by intake of less than 7 PPI doses over the 2 preceding weeks and adequate symptom control determined by the patient.

RESULTS

Sixty two patients were randomised, 29 to the oesophageal radiofrequency group and 33 to the sham group. Intention-to-treat analysis showed that 1/29 (3.4%) and 5/33 (15.1%) achieved the primary endpoint in the oesophageal radiofrequency and sham groups, respectively (NS). There was no significant difference between oesophageal radiofrequency and sham regarding the number of days without heartburn, days with PPI consumption in the last 2 weeks, and patients not taking PPIs. No pH-impedance parameter was associated with clinical response. The occurrence of adverse events was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

This sham-controlled, randomised study did not demonstrate any efficacy of oesophageal radiofrequency for the treatment of PPI-refractory heartburn regarding symptom relief or consumption of PPIs. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01682265.

Les colites microscopiques

Microscopic colitis is frequently found as a cause of chronic watery diarrhea in women after menopause. The disease can be associated with a medication side effect in half of the patients (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or proton pump inhibitors for instance). Colonic biopsies are mandatory for the diagnosis of microscopic colitis and should be performed in several locations of the colon. Management of microscopic colitis is first based on avoiding iatrogenic factors and smoking together with symptomatic treatment of diarrhea (loperamide, cholestyramine). In case of failure or severe symptoms, budesonide is the key treatment. The aim of the treatment is to achieve clinical remission, defined as less than 3 liquid stools per day, to improve quality of life. After a first course of budesonide, recurrence of diarrhea is frequent and a maintenance therapy can be prescribed for several months. In case of intolerance or refractoriness, second-line therapy (immunosuppressants, biological therapy, surgery) should be discussed in multidisciplinary team meeting.

AGA Clinical Practice Update on Functional Heartburn: Expert Review

BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: A diagnosis of functional heartburn should be considered when retrosternal burning pain or discomfort persists despite maximal (double-dose) proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy taken appropriately before meals during a 3-month period. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: A diagnosis of functional heartburn requires upper endoscopy with esophageal biopsies to rule out anatomic and mucosal abnormalities, esophageal high-resolution manometry to rule out major motor disorders, and pH monitoring off PPI therapy (or pH-impedance monitoring on therapy in patients with proven gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD]), to document physiologic levels of esophageal acid exposure in the distal esophagus with absence of reflux-symptom association (ie, negative symptom index and symptom association probability). BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: Overlap of functional heartburn with proven GERD is diagnosed according to Rome IV criteria when heartburn persists despite maximal PPI therapy in patients with history of proven GERD (ie, positive pH study, erosive esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, or esophageal ulcer), and pH impedance testing on PPI therapy demonstrates physiologic acid exposure without reflux-symptom association (ie, negative symptom index and symptom association probability). BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: PPIs have no therapeutic value in functional heartburn, the exception being proven GERD that overlaps with functional heartburn. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: Neuromodulators, including tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tegaserod, and histamine-2 receptor antagonists have benefit as either primary therapy in functional heartburn or as add-on therapy in functional heartburn that overlaps with proven GERD. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: Based on available evidence, acupuncture and hypnotherapy may have benefit as monotherapy in functional heartburn, or as adjunctive therapy combined with other therapeutic modalities. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: Based on available evidence, anti-reflux surgery and endoscopic GERD treatment modalities have no therapeutic benefit in functional heartburn and should not be recommended.

Role of Rapid Drink Challenge During Esophageal High-resolution Manometry in Predicting Outcome of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy in Patients With Achalasia

Background/Aims

Peroral endoscopy myotomy (POEM) is effective to treat achalasia. We aim to determine POEM effect on esophageal function and search for predictive factors of response to POEM and co-occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Methods

A total of 64 untreated achalasia patients who underwent high-resolution manometry (HRM) before and 3 months after POEM were retrospectively included. Response to treatment was defined as an Eckardt score < 3. Reflux symptoms and patient's satisfaction were evaluated. Data were compared using paired t test, Chi-square test or log rank test.

Results

The 2-year success rate in response to POEM was 90%. All responders reported being satisfied while only 33% of non-responders did (P < 0.001) and 64% of patients with reflux symptoms were satisfied versus 96% of those without (P = 0.009). On HRM, the integrated relaxation pressure and the contractile pattern changed significantly after POEM but were not predictive of response. Between pre and post POEM HRM, a decrease in maximal esophageal pressurization during rapid drink challenge (RDC) was associated with a better response rate than an increase of pressurization (91% vs 50%, P = 0.004). As evidenced by pH monitoring performed after POEM, GERD was pathological or borderline in 50% of patients (18/36) while only 19% (11/59) reported clinically significant reflux symptoms. On post POEM HRM, maximal esophageal pressurization during RDC was lower in patients with pathological or borderline GERD compared to those without (P = 0.054).

Conclusions

Esophageal HRM parameters changed significantly after POEM. Maximal esophageal pressurization during RDC may be useful to predict outcome.

Implementation of infliximab standardized doses after pharmacokinetic modelization in a cohort of patients with Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

According to infliximab (IFX) license in Crohn's disease (CD), infusion doses are based on patient's body-weight. Dose banding providing standardized doses (SD) has been implemented in parenteral chemotherapy in order to optimize aseptic unit capacity and reduce drug expenditure, duration of hospital stay and costs without decreasing efficacy.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The first part was a single-center retrospective analysis of consecutive CD patients receiving IFX maintenance therapy to determine standardized doses covering more than 50% of infusions. The second part was a prospective cohort study assessing the impact of SD compared to body-weight doses (BWD) on admission duration and costs.

RESULTS

Six IFX SD covering more than 90% of infusion doses were implemented for dose banding. According to the Monte-Carlo simulation, there was no significant difference between IFX SD and BWD maintenance regimens. When assessed prospectively in 116 patients (75 patients treated with SD and 41 with BWD) corresponding to 128 infusions, hospitalization duration was shortened by 70 min per patient (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

According to a pharmacokinetic model, IFX SD has a pharmacokinetic profile close to BWD and is associated with reduced length of hospitalization in a cohort of patients with CD. IFX SD implementation could optimize infusion units functioning and, save time and costs without decreasing efficacy.

Bismuth Concentrations in Patients Treated in Real-Life Practice with a Bismuth Subcitrate-Metronidazole-Tetracycline Preparation: The SAPHARY Study

INTRODUCTION

A fixed-dose association of bismuth subcitrate, metronidazole and tetracycline (BMT) (Pylera^®, Allergan, NJ, USA) was made available in France in 2013 for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori. Due to a historical issue of bismuth encephalopathy, the French Health Authorities requested a study of blood and plasma bismuth concentrations with BMT in daily practice.

AIMS

The aim of the study was to measure eventual bismuth accumulation and neurological toxicity in patients prescribed BMT.

METHODS

Patients initiating BMT for H. pylori between March 2014 and December 2015 were included. A blood sample was taken before first BMT intake and 24 h after the last intake, for assay of bismuth. A concentration > 50 μg/L was considered abnormal. Neurological complaints were assessed at inclusion, at the end of the 10-day treatment course, and 28 days later.

RESULTS

202 patients were included, of whom 190 took at least one dose of BMT, and 167 provided both required blood samples. Mean blood bismuth concentrations after the BMT course were 16.9 μg/L (95% confidence interval 15.6-18.3). Concentrations were > 50 μg/L (56.0 μg/L and 50.9 μg/L) in two elderly patients, one of whom presented mild, transient memory impairment during treatment. Non-serious neurological symptoms occurred in 20% of all patients and treatment failure was documented in 5% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study measuring blood bismuth concentrations in real-life practice, in < 1% of patients the BMT course resulted in blood bismuth concentrations > 50 μg/L. No serious neurological adverse events were observed.

STUDY REGISTRATION

EU-PAS register EUPAS3142 at www.encepp.eu ; ENCePP study seal.

Gastric Electrical Stimulation Reduces Refractory Vomiting in a Randomized Crossover Trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

There have been conflicting results from trials of gastric electrical stimulation (GES) for treatment of refractory vomiting, associated or not with gastroparesis. We performed a large, multicenter, randomized, double-blind trial with crossover to study the efficacy of GES in patients with refractory vomiting, with or without gastroparesis.

METHODS

For 4 months, we assessed symptoms in 172 patients (66% women; mean age ± standard deviation, 45 ± 12 years; 133 with gastroparesis) with chronic (>12 months) of refractory vomiting (idiopathic, associated with a type 1 or 2 diabetes, or postsurgical). A GES device was implanted and left unactivated until patients were randomly assigned, in a double-blind manner, to groups that received 4 months of stimulation parameters (14 Hz, 5 mA, pulses of 330 μs) or no stimulation (control); 149 patients then crossed over to the other group for 4 months. Patients were examined at the end of each 4-month period (at 5 and 9 months after implantation). Primary endpoints were vomiting score, ranging from 0 (daily vomiting) to 4 (no vomiting), and the quality of life, assessed by the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index scoring system. Secondary endpoints were changes in other digestive symptoms, nutritional status, gastric emptying, and control of diabetes.

RESULTS

During both phases of the crossover study, vomiting scores were higher in the group with the device on (median score, 2) than the control group (median score, 1; P < .001), in diabetic and nondiabetic patients. Vomiting scores increased significantly when the device was ON in patients with delayed (P < .01) or normal gastric emptying (P = .05). Gastric emptying was not accelerated during the ON period compared with the OFF period. Having the GES turned on was not associated with increased quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

In a randomized crossover study, we found that GES reduced the frequency of refractory vomiting in patients with and without diabetes, although it did not accelerate gastric emptying or increase of quality of life. Clinicaltrials.gov, Number: NCT00903799.

How to select patients for antireflux surgery? The ICARUS guidelines (international consensus regarding preoperative examinations and clinical characteristics assessment to select adult patients for antireflux surgery)

OBJECTIVE

Antireflux surgery can be proposed in patients with GORD, especially when proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use leads to incomplete symptom improvement. However, to date, international consensus guidelines on the clinical criteria and additional technical examinations used in patient selection for antireflux surgery are lacking. We aimed at generating key recommendations in the selection of patients for antireflux surgery.

DESIGN

We included 35 international experts (gastroenterologists, surgeons and physiologists) in a Delphi process and developed 37 statements that were revised by the Consensus Group, to start the Delphi process. Three voting rounds followed where each statement was presented with the evidence summary. The panel indicated the degree of agreement for the statement. When 80% of the Consensus Group agreed (A+/A) with a statement, this was defined as consensus. All votes were mutually anonymous.

RESULTS

Patients with heartburn with a satisfactory response to PPIs, patients with a hiatal hernia (HH), patients with oesophagitis Los Angeles (LA) grade B or higher and patients with Barrett's oesophagus are good candidates for antireflux surgery. An endoscopy prior to antireflux surgery is mandatory and a barium swallow should be performed in patients with suspicion of a HH or short oesophagus. Oesophageal manometry is mandatory to rule out major motility disorders. Finally, oesophageal pH (±impedance) monitoring of PPI is mandatory to select patients for antireflux surgery, if endoscopy is negative for unequivocal reflux oesophagitis.

CONCLUSION

With the ICARUS guidelines, we generated key recommendations for selection of patients for antireflux surgery.