Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection Versus Surgery or Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Metachronous Early Gastric Cancer: a Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Resection options for early gastric cancer (EGC) include endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), and surgery. In patients with metachronous EGC following previous resection, the optimal resection technique is not well elucidated. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing ESD to EMR, or ESD to surgery, in patients with metachronous EGC.

METHODS

We conducted an electronic search of studies reporting on outcomes and AEs following ESD versus either EMR or surgery for patients with metachronous EGC. Pooled odds ratios (OR) of included studies were obtained using DerSimonian and Laird random effects models. Funnel plots were produced and visually inspected for evidence of publication bias. The quality of the evidence was assessed using GRADE.

RESULTS

A total of 9367 abstracts were screened and 10 observational studies were included. The odds of complete resection were higher amongst patients undergoing ESD compared to EMR (OR 5.88, 95% confidence intervals, CI, 1.79-19.35), whereas the odds of complete resection were no different between ESD and surgery (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.04-8.24). There were no differences in the odds of local recurrence with ESD versus surgery (OR 5.01, 95% CI 0.86-29.13). Post-procedural bleeding did not differ significantly between ESD and EMR (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.16-3.00). There was no evidence of publication bias.

DISCUSSION

For metachronous EGC, ESD or surgery is preferred over EMR depending on local expertise and patient preferences, largely due to a higher risk of incomplete resection with EMR.

REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42021270445.

Effect of Disposable Elevator Cap Duodenoscopes on Persistent Microbial Contamination and Technical Performance of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: The ICECAP Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Infection transmission following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can occur due to persistent contamination of duodenoscopes despite high-level disinfection to completely eliminate microorganisms on the instrument.

Objective

To determine (1) contamination rates after high-level disinfection and (2) technical performance of duodenoscopes with disposable elevator caps compared with those with standard designs.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this parallel-arm multicenter randomized clinical trial at 2 tertiary ERCP centers in Canada, all patients 18 years and older and undergoing ERCP for any indication were eligible.

Intervention

The intervention was use of duodenoscopes with disposable elevator caps compared with duodenoscopes with a standard design.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Coprimary outcomes were persistent microbial contamination of the duodenoscope elevator or channel, defined as growth of at least 10 colony-forming units of any organism or any growth of gram-negative bacteria following high-level disinfection (superiority outcome), and technical success of ERCP according to a priori criteria (noninferiority outcome with an a priori noninferiority margin of 7%), assessed by blinded reviewers.

Results

From December 2019 to February 2022, 518 patients were enrolled (259 disposable elevator cap duodenoscopes, 259 standard duodenoscopes). Patients had a mean (SD) age of 60.7 (17.0) years and 258 (49.8%) were female. No significant differences were observed between study groups, including in ERCP difficulty. Persistent microbial contamination was detected in 11.2% (24 of 214) of standard duodenoscopes and 3.8% (8 of 208) of disposable elevator cap duodenoscopes (P = .004), corresponding to a relative risk of 0.34 (95% CI, 0.16-0.75) and number needed to treat of 13.6 (95% CI, 8.1-42.7) to avoid persistent contamination. Technical success using the disposable cap scope was noninferior to that of the standard scope (94.6% vs 90.7%, P = .13). There were no differences between study groups in adverse events and other secondary outcomes.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial, disposable elevator cap duodenoscopes exhibited reduced contamination following high-level disinfection compared with standard scope designs, without affecting the technical performance and safety of ERCP.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04040504.

A118 UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL HEMORRHAGE SECONDARY TO SUPERIOR MESENTERIC ARTERY PSEUDOANEURYSM: CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Background

Visceral artery pseudoaneurysms (VAPAs) are rare with an estimated incidence of 0.1%-0.2%. Due to various etiologies, a tear occurs in the vessel wall with subsequent formation of a peri-artery hematoma. A ruptured VAPA is a clinical emergency due to life-threatening hemorrhage and is associated with mortality rates of 25%-75%.

Aims

We report a case of upper gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage secondary to a ruptured superior mesenteric artery (SMA) pseudoaneurysm. A review of the literature regarding management of VAPAs and SMA pseudoaneurysms was performed using relevant medical subject headings on PubMed.

Methods

A 66-year-old woman presented to hospital with sudden large volume hematemesis and melena. Her daily medications included Aspirin and Atorvastatin. She had no prior history of peptic ulcers or chronic liver disease. She was found to be tachycardic and hypotensive. Initial investigations demonstrated a hemoglobin of 42g/L and a blood urea nitrogen of 17.5mmol/L. She was resuscitated and referred for an emergent upper endoscopy. On endoscopy, in the third portion of the duodenum, a 4cm solid-appearing subepithelial lesion with central umbilication and an apparent visible vessel was identified. Upon inspection of the lesion, the umbilicated area spontaneously began spurting blood (Image 1). A hemoclip was immediately placed next to the lesion for localization, then hemostatic powder was applied to the area. An immediate computerized tomography (CT) angiography of the abdomen revealed a 3.9 x 2.1 cm pseudoaneurysm arising from the superior mesenteric artery impressing upon the duodenum.

Results

Transcathether arterial embolization of the SMA pseudoaneurysm was performed, during which two Nester coils were deposited in the ileocolic outflow vessel. A covered endovascular stent was also deployed across the culprit arterial branch to exclude the pseudoaneurysm. Following the procedure, the patient stabilized and had no further GI bleeding. Traditionally, visceral angiography has been the gold standard diagnostic test for VAPAs, but has now been supplanted by CT angiography. Treatment strategies of VAPAs can be broadly separated into endovascular methods (coils, vascular plugs, stents, liquid embolic agents) and surgical methods (aneurysmectomy with patching, end-to-end anastomosis, bypass grafting).

Conclusions

SMA pseudoaneurysms are a rare yet life-threatening cause of GI bleeding. Endoscopically, they resemble solid subepithelial masses, such as GI stromal tumor, nerve sheath tumor or a lipoma, which may lead to inappropriate attempts to biopsy the lesion or apply direct endoscopic therapy. Prompt diagnosis with imaging, such as CT angiography, is paramount with a view to definitive treatment of the pseudoaneurysm via endovascular methods.

Actively hemorrhagic SMA pseudoaneurysm

Funding Agencies

None

A124 INITIAL EXPERIENCES AND OUTCOMES IN LAUNCHING AN ESD PROGRAM IN CANADA

Background

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is emerging as the preferred modality for curative resection of certain gastrointestinal lesions, yet it has a steep learning curve. Formal ESD training in Canada is limited, thus several endoscopists have sought training abroad. There are no data on the initial outcomes of ESD in Canada.

Aims

To describe the experience of a single advanced endoscopist (P.B.) who completed a mentor-apprentice model of ESD training in Europe and recently launched an ESD service in Canada.

Methods

Formal training in submucosal endoscopy was completed over a 12-month period (Sep 2018-Aug 2019) in Milan, Italy involving a stepwise progression through case observation (n=40), use of animal models (n=10), partial completion of human cases under direct supervision (n=25), and independent completion of human cases (n=19). Upon return to Calgary, AB, the program was promoted via grand rounds, an evening launch event and word-of-mouth. Patient and lesion characteristics, as well as procedure details and ESD outcomes were recorded prospectively in a database and used to complete a practice audit. Cases were divided into two timeframes (first 18 vs second 18 cases) and then compared with respect to specimen size, resection speed, R0 resection rate, and adverse event (AE) rate using the Mann-Whitney U and two-proportion Z-tests.

Results

From Nov 2019 to Sep 2021, 36 lesions were treated by ESD in 34 patients (mean (SD) age=66.5 (13.5) years). Most lesions were located in the rectum (44.4%) or stomach (41.7%); 21 (58.3%) were neoplastic, of which 5 (23.8%) were submucosal carcinomas, 11 (52.3%) were mucosal carcinomas (7 m1/Tis, 4 m2-3/T1a), and 5 (23.8%) were neuroendocrine tumors. The overall en bloc resection rate was 97.2% (35/36 lesions). In comparing the first 18 cases to the second 18 cases (Table 1), there were non-significant trends toward increases in mean specimen size (5.4 to 8.6 cm², P=0.07) and R0 resection rate (62.5% to 84.6%, P=0.24). Resection speed increased significantly (2.97 to 6.25 cm²/hr, P=0.04), while AE rates remained the same (11.1%); namely 2 episodes of bleeding requiring repeat endoscopy in each set of cases. There were no perforations or intra-abdominal infections.

Conclusions

With appropriate training and support, ESD can be performed safely and effectively in a Canadian context. Proficiency can be expected to improve significantly within the first 2 years of independent ESD practice without compromising safety.

Funding Agencies

None

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for colorectal neoplasia: outcomes and predictors of recurrence

Background and study aims  The role of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for colorectal lesions in Western communities is unclear and its adoption is still limited. The aim of this study is to assess the long-term outcomes of a large cohort of patients treated with colorectal ESD in a tertiary Western center. Patients and methods  A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients treated by ESD for superficial colorectal lesions between February 2011 and November 2019. The primary outcome was the recurrence rate. Secondary outcomes were en-bloc and R0 resection rates, procedural time, adverse events (AEs), and need for surgery. The curative resection rate was assessed for submucosal invasive lesions. Results  A total of 327 consecutive patients, median age 69 years (IQR 60-76); 201 men (61.5 %) were included in the analysis. Of the lesions, 90.8 % were resected in an en-bloc fashion. The rate of R0 resection was 83.1 % (217/261) and 44.0 % (29/66) for standard and hybrid ESD techniques, respectively. Submucosal invasion and piecemeal resection independently predicted R1 resections. A total of 18(5.5 %) intra-procedural AEs (perforation:11, bleeding:7) and 12(3.7 %) post-procedural AEs occurred (perforation:2, bleeding: 10). Eighteen adenoma recurrences per 1,000 person-years (15cases, 5.6 %) were detected after a median follow-up time of 36 months. All recurrences were detected within 12 months. No carcinoma recurrences were observed. R1 resection status and intra-procedural AEs independently predicted recurrences with seven vs 150 recurrences per 1,000 person-years in the R0 vs R1 group, respectively. Conclusions  Colorectal ESD is a safe and effective option for managing superficial colorectal neoplasia in a Western setting, with short and long-terms outcomes comparable to Eastern studies. En-bloc R0 resection and absence of intra-procedural AEs are associated with reduced risk of recurrence.

Fluid cushion protects against thermal damage during argon plasma coagulation

Background

Thermal damage to the muscle layer during mucosal application of argon plasma coagulation (APC) may be avoided by creating a fluid cushion within the submucosal layer, but the minimum injection volume needed or the ideal injection fluid are yet to be established. We conducted a systematic ex vivo study with this aim.

Methods

All experiments were performed in an ex vivo porcine gastrointestinal tract model. Five different fluids (saline, Glyceol, Gelafundin, Voluven, and Eleview) of different volumes were injected into the submucosa of different parts of the gastrointestinal tract. APC was applied to the mucosa at different power settings. Immediately after APC treatment, the temperature was measured through a thermocouple placed inside the fluid cushion, just on top of the muscle layer. The minimum volume of fluid needed to protect the muscle layer from thermal damage was determined.

Results

There was no difference in the temperature measured among the different injection fluids at the surface of the muscle, in all the locations, at equal injection volumes and power settings. The minimum amounts of fluid needed to protect the muscle layer were 2 and 3 mL for power settings of 30-90 W and 90-120 W, respectively.

Conclusions

Normal saline and 4 commercially available submucosal injection fluids possess similar thermal protective effects. To reduce the likelihood of thermal damage to deeper layers when APC is applied, a minimum injection volume of 3 mL is recommended if less than 90 W power will be utilized over 3 sec.

Risk of Covert Submucosal Cancer in Patients With Granular Mixed Laterally Spreading Tumors

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Granular mixed laterally spreading tumors (GM-LSTs) have an intermediate level of risk for submucosal invasive cancer (SMICs) without clear signs of invasion (covert); the optimal resection method is uncertain. We aimed to determine the risk of covert SMIC in GM-LSTs based on clinical and endoscopic factors.

METHODS

We collected data from 693 patients (50.6% male; median age, 69 years) with colorectal GM-LSTs, without signs of invasion, who underwent endoscopic resection (74.2%) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (25.2%) at 7 centers in Italy from 2016 through 2019. We performed multivariate and univariate analyses to identify demographic and endoscopic factors associated with risk of SMIC. We developed a multivariate model to calculate the number needed to treat (NNT) to detect 1 SMIC.

RESULTS

Based on pathology analysis, 66 patients (9.5%) had covert SMIC. In multivariate analyses, increased risk of covert SMIC were independently associated with increasing lesion size (odds ratio per mm increase, 1.02, 95% CI, 1.01-1.03; P = .003) and rectal location (odds ratio, 3.08; 95% CI, 1.62-5.83; P = .004). A logistic regression model based on lesion size (with a cutoff of 40 mm) and rectal location identified patients with covert SMIC with 47.0% sensitivity, 82.6% specificity, and an area under the curve of 0.69. The NNT to identify 1 patient with a nonrectal SMIC smaller than 4 cm was 20; the NNT to identify 1 patient with a rectal SMIC of 4 cm or more was 5.

CONCLUSIONS

In an analysis of data from 693 patients, we found the risk of covert SMIC in patients with GM-LSTs to be approximately 10%. GM-LSTs of 4 cm or more and a rectal location are high risk and should be treated by en-bloc resection. ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT03836131.

Safety and efficacy of multiband mucosectomy for Barrett's esophagus: a systematic review with pooled analysis

Background

According to guidelines, all visible lesions in Barrett’s esophagus (BE) should be endoscopically resected. Available methods of endoscopic resection include the cap-assisted technique and, more recently, multiband mucosectomy (MBM). Data on the efficacy and safety of MBM have yet to be systematically reviewed. We performed the first systematic review with pooled analysis to evaluate the outcomes of MBM in patients with BE.

Methods

Electronic databases (Medline, Scopus, EMBASE) were searched up to August 2019. Studies including patients with BE who underwent MBM were eligible. The primary outcome was the adverse events rate. Secondary outcomes were the proportions of complete resections and R0 resections. Outcomes were assessed by pooling data using a random or fixed-effect model, according to the degree of heterogeneity, to obtain a proportion with a 95% confidence interval.

Results

Fourteen studies were eligible (1334 procedures, 986 patients). The adverse event rate was 5.3%. Immediate and post-procedural bleeding, perforations and strictures occurred in 0.2%, 0.7%, 0.3% and 3.9% of procedures, respectively. Focal lesions were resected at a complete rate of 97.6% with an R0 resection rate of 94.1%.

Conclusion

MBM is a safe and effective technique for treating visible lesions in BE.

A139 IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE AFTER ENDOSCOPIC THERAPY FOR BARRETT’S ESOPHAGUS AND EARLY ESOPHAGEAL CANCER IN SOUTHERN ALBERTA

Background

In patients with Barrett’s esophagus (BE), endoscopic therapy reduces the risk of progression to invasive esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Data on the impact of endoscopic therapy on patient quality of life (QoL) is limited.

Aims

We aimed to assess: (1) change in QoL during the course of endoscopic therapy for BE, (2) factors which predict this change, (3) whether achieving complete remission of dysplasia (CRD) or intestinal metaplasia (CRIM) affect the degree of change.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study using a prospectively maintained database of BE patients treated in Calgary, Alberta from 2013–2020 containing data on demographics, BE disease characteristics and therapeutics, QoL, and follow-up. QoL was determined prior to initiation of therapy and after each treatment session using a validated questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were calculated and change in QoL was compared using a Wilcoxon signed ranks test. Backwards multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine predictors of change in QoL.

Results

Of 130 BE patients, 112 (86.1%) were male and 104 (80%) had dysplastic histology or intramucosal carcinoma on index endoscopy. Mean (SD) age was 65.6 (12.0) years. At time of analysis, 76 patients (58.5%) had completed endoscopic therapy, of whom 69 (90.8%) achieved CRIM; 54 patients (41.5%) were still undergoing treatment. There was significant improvement in all QoL measures during the treatment course except for “depression” (Table 1). Patients with CRIM or CRD had reductions in “sleep difficulty” and “negative impact on life” to a significantly greater degree vs patients not achieving CRIM (Δ sleep -0.45 vs 0.0, P=0.002; Δ negative impact -0.4 vs -0.05, P=0.014) or CRD (Δ sleep -0.40 vs +0.60, P=0.002; Δ negative impact -0.40 vs +0.20, P=0.04). Multiple linear regression revealed older age (B=-0.03, P=0.008) and fewer number of EMR sessions (B=0.254, P=0.008) were correlated with greater improvement in QoL.

Conclusions

Endoscopic therapy improves QoL in BE patients, especially in those achieving CRIM/CRD. Older age and fewer EMRs are correlated with greater improvement in QoL. These results further reinforce the role of endoscopic therapy as the first line treatment of BE and early EAC.

Funding Agencies

None

Flexible endoscopic treatment for Zenker's diverticulum: from the lumen to the third space

Zenker’s diverticulum (ZD) is a rare outpouching of the esophageal mucosa herniating posteriorly through Killian’s triangle. Treatments of ZD aim to dissect the cricopharyngeal muscle to remove the underlying dysfunctional condition. In the last decade, a septotomy performed utilizing a flexible endoscope has been reported as a safe and effective alternative to both open surgery and rigid endoscopic diverticulotomy. More recently, Li et al described a novel endoscopic technique to treat ZD, named “submucosal tunneling endoscopic septum division”, inspired by the peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) procedure developed for achalasia. Subsequently, the term Z-POEM was introduced and has become the most frequently used acronym to define the tunneling technique for ZD. This article describes the flexible therapeutic endoscopic strategies for treating ZD, including the novel third space approach, which seems to show promising potential in terms of clinical efficacy and safety.

Epidemiologic Burden and Treatment of Chronic Symptomatic Functional Bowel Disorders in the United States: A Nationwide Analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Functional bowel disorders (FBDs) are the most common gastrointestinal problems managed by physicians. We aimed to assess the burden of chronic symptomatic FBDs on ambulatory care delivery in the United States and evaluate patterns of treatment.

METHODS

Data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey were used to estimate annual rates and associated costs of ambulatory visits for symptomatic irritable bowel syndrome, chronic functional abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea. The weighted proportion of visits associated with pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic (stress/mental health, exercise, diet counseling) interventions were calculated, and predictors of treatment strategy were evaluated in multivariable multinomial logistic regression.

RESULTS

From 2007-2015, approximately 36.9 million (95% CI, 31.4-42.4) weighted visits in patients of non-federally employed physicians for chronic symptomatic FBDs were sampled. There was an annual weighted average of 2.7 million (95% CI, 2.3-3.2) visits for symptomatic irritable bowel syndrome/chronic abdominal pain, 1.0 million (95% CI, 0.8-1.2) visits for chronic constipation, and 0.7 million (95% CI, 0.5-0.8) visits for chronic diarrhea. Pharmacologic therapies were prescribed in 49.7% (95% CI, 44.7-54.8) of visits compared to nonpharmacologic interventions in 19.8% (95% CI, 16.0-24.2) of visits (P < .001). Combination treatment strategies were more likely to be implemented by primary care physicians and in patients with depression or obesity. The direct annual cost of ambulatory clinic visits alone for chronic symptomatic FBDs is approximately US$358 million (95% CI, 233-482 million).

CONCLUSIONS

The management of chronic symptomatic FBDs is associated with considerable health care resource use and cost. There may be an opportunity to improve comprehensive FBD management because fewer than 1 in 5 ambulatory visits include nonpharmacologic treatment strategies.

Infection control in ERCP using a duodenoscope with a disposable cap (ICECAP): rationale for and design of a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) is commonly performed in the management of pancreatic and biliary disease. Duodenoscopes are specialized endoscopes used to perform ERCP, and inherent to their design, a high rate of persistent bacterial contamination exists even after automated reprocessing and disinfection. Consequently, in recent years, ERCP has been associated with infection transmission, leading to several fatal patient outbreaks. Due to increasing fears over widespread future duodenoscope-related outbreaks, regulatory bodies have called for alterations in the design of duodenoscopes. A duodenoscope has recently been developed that employs a disposable cap. This novel design theoretically eliminates the mechanism behind persistent bacterial contamination and infection transmission. However, there are no data demonstrating persistent bacterial contamination rates, technical success rates, or clinical outcomes associated with these duodenoscopes.

METHODS

A parallel arm randomized controlled trial will be performed for which 520 patients will be recruited. The study population will consist of consecutive patients undergoing ERCP procedures for any indication at a high-volume tertiary care centre in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Patients will be randomized to an intervention group, that will undergo ERCP with a novel duodenoscope with disposable cap, or to a control group who will undergo ERCP with a traditional duodenoscope. Co-primary outcomes will include persistent bacterial contamination rates (post automated reprocessing) and ERCP technical success rates. Secondary outcomes include clinical success rates, overall and specific early and late adverse event rates, 30-day mortality and healthcare utilization rates, procedure and reprocessing times, and ease of device use.

DISCUSSION

The ICECAP trial will answer important questions regarding the use of a novel duodenoscope with disposable cap. Specifically, persistent bacterial contamination, technical performance, and relevant clinical outcomes will be assessed. Given the mortality and morbidity burden associated with ERCP-related infectious outbreaks, the results of this study have the capacity to be impactful at an international level.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04040504) on July 31, 2019.

A145 A SUBMUCOSAL FLUID CUSHION PREVENTS MUSCLE LAYER DAMAGE DURING ARGON PLASMA COAGULATION

Background

Thermal damage to the muscle layer of the gastrointestinal wall can occur during mucosal application of argon plasma coagulation (APC). This injury may be mitigated by creating a fluid cushion within the submucosal layer that physically separates the mucosa from the muscle layer and suppresses unwanted tissue temperature elevation. This in turn protects the muscle layer from thermal damage. The coagulative threshold of muscle proteins is known to be about 60°C, but there are no published systematic assessments of the minimum injection volume needed nor the ideal injectate to prevent thermal damage to the muscle layer during mucosal APC ablation.

Aims

Our aims were, firstly, to measure the final temperature inside the fluid cushion after mucosal ablation with APC and then to determine any differences in the final temperature between various injectable solutions. Secondly, we sought to determine the minimum volume of injectate required to protect the muscle layer from thermal damage.

Methods

All experiments were performed in an ex-vivo porcine gastrointestinal tract model. Five different fluids (normal saline, Glyceol, Gelafundin, Voluven and Eleview) of different volumes (range 0 - 5mL) were injected into the submucosa of the esophagus, stomach (fundus) and rectum to create a fluid cushion. APC was applied to the mucosa for a fixed duration (3s) at different power settings (ranging from 30 - 120W). Immediately after APC treatment, the final temperature was measured by placing a contact thermometer inside the fluid cushion, just on top of the muscle layer.

Results

There was no significant difference in the temperature measured at the surface of the muscle layer between elevation with normal saline, Glyceol, Gelafundin, Voluven and Eleview at all 3 tissue locations at equal injection volumes and power settings. The experiments showed that the temperature rose for each injectate with heightened power settings but also decreased with increasing volume of injected fluid. The minimum amount of fluid needed to protect the muscle layer from thermal damage was 2mL for the esophagus, stomach and rectum in the case of a power setting between 30 to 90W and 3mL in the case of 90 to 120W.

Conclusions

Normal saline and four commercially available submucosal injectates possess similar thermoregulatory effects as an insulator of the muscle layer during APC treatment. As opposed to the choice of injectate or anatomic location treated, the volume of fluid injected is the main determinant of the final temperature at the level of the muscularis propria. To reduce the likelihood of thermal damage to deeper layers of the GI tract when APC is applied, a minimum injection volume of 2mL is recommended if &lt;90W of power is utilized.

Funding Agencies

None

Direct peroral cholangioscopy in the management of difficult biliary stones: a new tool to confirm common bile duct clearance. Results of a preliminary study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) with stone extraction is the standard treatment for choledocholithiasis. After stone retrieval, balloon-occluded cholangiography is generally performed to confirm bile duct clearance but can miss residual stones particularly in patients with residual small-sized stones, a large bile duct or pneumobilia. In addition, difficult common bile duct (CBD) stones requiring advanced endoscopic techniques for retrieval are a potential risk factor for choledocholithiasis recurrence.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective evaluation of a prospectively maintained procedures database. From July 2016 to December 2017, all patients with difficult CBD stones who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with papillary balloon dilation-assisted stone retrieval and subsequent direct per-oral cholangioscopy (DPOC) using standard gastroscopes to confirm CBD clearance were analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients who underwent ERCP and DPOC were included. Technical success, defined as deep intubation of CBD with hepatic hilum visualization, was achieved in 31 of 36 patients (86%). During DPOC, residual CBD stones were visualized and removed in 7 of 31 patients (22.5%). After a mean of 241 +/- 56 days of follow-up post-DPOC, no serious adverse events were reported, and there was no evidence or suspicion of recurrent choledocholithiasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct per-oral cholangioscopy immediately following difficult CBD stone removal was safe, feasible and accurate. In this setting, DPOC at the time of ERCP appears to be a very useful tool to achieve complete clearance of choledocholithiasis.

Direct Peroral Cholangioscopy in the Management of Difficult Biliary Stones: a New Tool to Confirm Common Bile Duct Clearance. Results of a Preliminary Study

Background & Aims: Endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) with stone extraction is the standard treatment for choledocholithiasis. After stone retrieval, balloon-occluded cholangiography is generally performed to confirm bile duct clearance but can miss residual stones particularly in patients with residual small-sized stones, a large bile duct or pneumobilia. In addition, difficult common bile duct (CBD) stones requiring advanced endoscopic techniques for retrieval are a potential risk factor for choledocholithiasis recurrence.Methods: We performed a retrospective evaluation of a prospectively maintained procedures database. From July 2016 to December 2017, all patients with difficult CBD stones who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with papillary balloon dilation-assisted stone retrieval and subsequent direct per-oral cholangioscopy (DPOC) using standard gastroscopes to confirm CBD clearance were analyzed.Results: Thirty-six patients who underwent ERCP and DPOC were included. Technical success, defined as deep intubation of CBD with hepatic hilum visualization, was achieved in 31 of 36 patients (86%). During DPOC, residual CBD stones were visualized and removed in 7 of 31 patients (22.5%). After a mean of 241 ± 56 days of follow-up post-DPOC, no serious adverse events were reported, and there was no evidence orsuspicion of recurrent choledocholithiasis.Conclusions: Direct per-oral cholangioscopy immediately following difficult CBD stone removal was safe, feasible and accurate. In this setting, DPOC at the time of ERCP appears to be a very useful tool to achieve complete clearance of choledocholithiasis.

The incremental benefit of EUS for identifying unresectable disease among adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A meta-analysis

Background and study aims

It is unclear to what extent EUS influences the surgical management of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. This systematic review sought to determine if EUS evaluation improves the identification of unresectable disease among adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Patients and methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, bibliographies of included articles and conference proceedings for studies reporting original data regarding surgical management and/or survival among patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, from inception to January 7th 2017. Our main outcome was the incremental benefit of EUS for the identification of unresectable disease (IB_EUS). The pooled IB_EUS were calculated using random effects models. Heterogeneity was explored using stratified meta-analysis and meta-regression.

Results

Among 4,903 citations identified, we included 8 cohort studies (study periods from 1992 to 2007) that examined the identification of unresectable disease (n = 795). Random effects meta-analysis suggested that EUS alone identified unresectable disease in 19% of patients (95% confidence interval [CI], 10–33%). Among those studies that considered portal or mesenteric vein invasion as potentially resectable, EUS alone was able to identify unresectable disease in 14% of patients (95% CI 8–24%) after a CT scan was performed.

Limitations

The majority of the included studies were retrospective.

Conclusions

EUS evaluation is associated with increased identification of unresectable disease among adults with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Incremental benefit of preoperative EUS for the detection of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines recommend CT scan or magnetic resonance imaging as the initial imaging modalities for the work-up of suspected pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs).

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incremental benefit of preoperative EUS (IBEUS) for the detection of suspected PNETs after other investigative modalities have been attempted.

DESIGN

This systematic review searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, bibliographies of included articles, and conference proceedings for studies reporting original data regarding the preoperative detection of PNETs. Pooled IBEUS was calculated by using random effects models. Heterogeneity was explored by using stratified meta-analysis and meta-regression. Evidence of small-study effects was assessed by using funnel plots and the Begg test.

PATIENTS

Patients with suspected PNETs.

INTERVENTIONS

EUS evaluation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The pooled IBEUS for the detection of PNETs after CT scan, with or without additional investigative modalities.

RESULTS

Among 4505 citations identified, we included 17 cohort studies (612 patients). EUS identified PNETs in 97% of cases. Improved PNET identification with EUS was observed in all of the studies. After adjusting for small-study effects, meta-analysis showed that EUS alone could identify PNETs in approximately 1 in 4 patients (adjusted IBEUS 26%; 95% confidence interval, 17%-37%). The pooled IBEUS varied based on the study design, study size, type of CT scan used, and the number of modalities used prior to EUS.

LIMITATIONS

The majority of included studies were retrospective. Small-study effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative EUS is associated with an increase in PNET detection after other modalities are attempted.

Lymphomatoid granulomatosis associated with azathioprine therapy in Crohn disease

BACKGROUND

Lymphomatoid granulomatosis (LYG) is a rare Epstein-Barr virus-associated lymphoproliferative disorder. It most often occurs in patients with immunodeficiency and the clinical course ranges from indolent behavior to that of an aggressive malignancy. Pulmonary, central nervous system and dermatological manifestations are most common. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of LYG related to azathioprine therapy in Crohn disease.

CASE PRESENTATION

A twenty-six year old Caucasian woman with colonic Crohn disease on maintenance azathioprine therapy presented with right upper quadrant pain and fever. Diagnostic imaging revealed extensive liver, pulmonary and cerebral lesions. A diagnosis of LYG was made based on the pattern of organ involvement and the immunohistochemical features on liver and lung biopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Thiopurine therapy for inflammatory bowel disease is associated with an increased incidence of lymphoproliferative disorders. This report highlights the diagnostic challenges associated with LYG. As long-term thiopurine therapy remains central to the management of inflammatory bowel diseases it is essential that both patients and clinicians are aware of this potential adverse outcome.

Endoscopic ultrasound guided biliary drainage in patients with unapproachable ampullae due to malignant duodenal obstruction

PURPOSE

When endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is not possible due to duodenal obstruction, endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) has emerged as an alternate mode of biliary decompression. This study aims to determine the safety and outcomes of performing EUS-BD in such patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review of our endoscopy procedure database was carried out to identify patients with malignant biliary obstruction and failed ERCP in whom EUS-BD was attempted.

RESULTS

Seven patients were identified. The technical success rate was 6/7 (86%). Four patients were treated with a choledochoduodenostomy; two had hepaticogastrostomies; drainage was not attempted in one due to unfavorable anatomy on EUS. In three patients, EUS-BD was performed immediately after unsuccessful ERCP as a single procedure. The initial choice of stent was plastic in two, self-expanding uncovered metal in two, and fully covered metal in two. The median follow-up was 15.5 weeks. There were no immediate complications. Bilirubin decreased in 5/6 (83%) and jaundice resolved in 4/6 (67%). Pruritus resolved in 4/4 (100%). Chemotherapy was restarted in 4/6 (67%). Reintervention due to stent blockage occurred twice. Both were converted to fully covered metal stents. No instances of stent migration were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In our series, EUS-BD is a feasible, safe, and effective method of internal drainage in appropriately selected patients with biliary obstruction and unapproachable ampullae due to malignant duodenal obstruction. EUS-BD can be performed immediately after a failed ERCP under the same anesthesia. Covered metal stents may be preferred, but further study is required.

Successful endoscopic ultrasound-guided transduodenal biliary drainage through a pre-existing duodenal stent

CONTEXT

When ERCP fails in the setting of combined biliary and duodenal obstruction, EUS-guided biliary drainage has emerged as an alternate method of biliary decompression.

CASE REPORT

We present a case of a 40-year-old man with advanced pancreatic cancer and a pre-existing duodenal wall stent who subsequently develops jaundice due to biliary obstruction. An ERCP was technically unsuccessful as the papilla was inaccessible despite probing within the duodenal stent. Transduodenal biliary drainage was achieved using EUS guidance to create a choledochoduodenostomy tract. A fully covered metal biliary stent was then deployed through the mesh of the duodenal wall stent. The patient's jaundice and pruritus subsequently resolved.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report of successful transduodenal EUS-guided biliary drainage performed through an existing enteral wall stent and can still be considered as an alternate mode of biliary drainage in this setting.

Seizure as the manifestation of relapse of multiple sclerosis in a military pilot

A case of a seizure in an active pilot with multiple sclerosis is presented. A 40-yr-old Canadian Forces pilot experienced a secondary generalized tonic-clonic seizure while taxiing a CC-130 (Hercules) transport after landing. His multiple sclerosis had been in remission since 1997 and he had been returned to restricted flying duties. He was assessed and treated, with no further seizures or adverse sequelae. An MRI showed a new demyelinating lesion in the anterior corpus callosum. His seizure was the only clinical manifestation of his MS relapse. The prevalence of seizures in MS patients, possible causal mechanisms, and the disposition of pilots with MS are discussed.