MFGE8 in exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells prevents esophageal stricture after endoscopic submucosal dissection in pigs

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is the current standard treatment for early-stage esophageal neoplasms. However, the postoperative esophageal stricture after extensive mucosal dissection remains a severe challenge with limited effective treatments available. In this study, we introduced a chitosan/gelatin (ChGel) sponge encapsulating the adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs)-derived exosomes (ChGelMSC-Exo) for the prevention of esophageal stenosis after ESD in a porcine model.

RESULTS

Pigs were randomly assigned into (1) ChGelMSC-Exo treatment group, (2) ChGelPBS group, and (3) the controls. Exosome treatments were applied immediately on the day after ESD as well as on day 7. Exosome components crucial for wound healing were investigated by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and small RNA sequencing. ChGelMSC-Exo treatment significantly reduced mucosal contraction on day 21, with less fiber accumulation and inflammatory infiltration, and enhanced angiogenesis when compared with the control and ChGelPBS groups. The anti-fibrotic effects following MSC-Exo treatment were further found to be associated with the anti-inflammatory M2 polarization of the resident macrophages, especially within the M2b subset characterized by the reduced TGFβ1 secretion, which sufficiently inhibited inflammation and prevented the activation of myofibroblast with less collagen production at the early stage after ESD. Moreover, the abundant expression of exosomal MFGE8 was identified to be involved in the transition of the M2b-macrophage subset through the activation of MFGE8/STAT3/Arg1 axis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that exosomal MFGE8 significantly promotes the polarization of the M2b-macrophage subset, consequently reducing collagen deposition. These findings suggest a promising potential for MSC-Exo therapy in preventing the development of esophageal stricture after near-circumferential ESD.

Research on triamcinolone-loaded thermosensitive chitosan hydrogels for preventing esophageal stricture induced by endoscopic submucosal dissection

Early-stage esophageal cancer is primarily treated by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). However, extensive mucosal dissection creates a significant risk of postoperative esophageal stricture. Clinically, postoperative stricture can be prevented by glucocorticoids; however, there are drawbacks to both systemic and local administration of glucocorticoids, and improving drug administration methods is crucial. In this study, we developed a chitosan-based thermosensitive hydrogel for triamcinolone (TA) delivery. Our results indicated that the hydrogel remains liquid at low temperatures and can be injected into the esophageal wound site through an endoscopic biopsy channel. Upon reaching body temperature, the hydrogel undergoes spontaneous gelation and firmly adheres to the wound surface. The liquid phase enables convenient and precise delivery, while the gel phase achieves remarkable adhesion, tensile strength, and resistance to degradation. Moreover, the hydrogel exhibited an extended release duration of >10 days when loaded with a 10 mg dose. In vitro studies revealed that the hydrogel suppresses the proliferation and fibrogenesis of human scar fibroblasts (HKF). In a rat skin dermal defect model, the hydrogel attenuated keloid formation during the healing process. Consequently, the chitosan-based thermosensitive hydrogel developed in this study for triamcinolone delivery may be an effective tool for preventing post-ESD esophageal stricture.

Progress in the treatment and prevention of esophageal stenosis after endoscopic submucosal dissection

The primary treatment for early esophageal cancer and precancerous lesions is endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). However, this approach leads to a high incidence of postoperative esophageal stenosis, which can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. While various methods are available to prevent post-ESD esophageal stenosis, their effectiveness varies. Therefore, this study aims to provide an overview of the currently employed methods for preventing post-ESD esophageal stenosis in clinical practice in view of assisting clinical practitioners.

The occurrence and development mechanisms of esophageal stricture: state of the art review

BACKGROUND

Esophageal strictures significantly impair patient quality of life and present a therapeutic challenge, particularly due to the high recurrence post-ESD/EMR. Current treatments manage symptoms rather than addressing the disease's etiology. This review concentrates on the mechanisms of esophageal stricture formation and recurrence, seeking to highlight areas for potential therapeutic intervention.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted through PUBMED using search terms: esophageal stricture, mucosal resection, submucosal dissection. Relevant articles were identified through manual review with reference lists reviewed for additional articles.

RESULTS

Preclinical studies and data from animal studies suggest that the mechanisms that may lead to esophageal stricture include overdifferentiation of fibroblasts, inflammatory response that is not healed in time, impaired epithelial barrier function, and multimethod factors leading to it. Dysfunction of the epithelial barrier may be the initiating mechanism for esophageal stricture. Achieving perfect in-epithelialization by tissue-engineered fabrication of cell patches has been shown to be effective in the treatment and prevention of esophageal strictures.

CONCLUSION

The development of esophageal stricture involves three stages: structural damage to the esophageal epithelial barrier (EEB), chronic inflammation, and severe fibrosis, in which dysfunction or damage to the EEB is the initiating mechanism leading to esophageal stricture. Re-epithelialization is essential for the treatment and prevention of esophageal stricture. This information will help clinicians or scientists to develop effective techniques to treat esophageal stricture in the future.

Predictive factors for esophageal stenosis in patients receiving prophylactic steroid therapy after endoscopic submucosal dissection for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Methods to prevent esophageal stenosis (ES) after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) have received increasing attention. Although steroid administration is a prophylactic treatment, the risk factors for ES during prophylactic steroid therapy remain unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the risk factors for refractory ES in patients administered prophylactic steroids after ESD for ESCC.

METHODS

Among 795 patients with ESCC (854 lesions), 180 patients (211 lesions) administered local triamcinolone acetonide (TrA) and/or oral prednisolone were recruited for this study. We compared the total number of endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) procedures performed for post-ESD ES and clinical findings (tumor size, ESD history or chemoradiation therapy [CRT], entire circumferential resection, muscle layer damage, supplemental oral prednisolone administration, EBD with TrA injection, and additional CRT) between patients with refractory and non-refractory ES. EBD was continued until dysphagia resolved. We categorized cases requiring ≥ 8 EBD procedures as refractory postoperative stenosis and divided the lesions into two groups.

RESULTS

Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that factors such as ESD history, CRT history, tumor size, and entire circumferential resection were independently associated with the development of refractory ES. The withdrawal rates of EBD at 3 years were 96.1% (52/53) and 58.5% (39/59) in the non-refractory and refractory groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that entire circumferential resection and CRT history are risk factors for refractory post-ESD ES in ESCC, even with prophylactic steroid administration.

Prevention of Esophageal Stricture after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection with an Autologous Esophageal Epithelial Cell Suspension: An Animal Study

BACKGROUND

Severe esophageal stricture decreases patient's quality of life after circumferential endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of autologous esophageal epithelial cell suspensions in preventing esophageal stricture after circumferential ESD.

METHODS

Twelve male mini-pigs underwent circumferential ESD and were randomized into four groups: G1 (control), G2 (esophageal stent), G3 (autologous esophageal epithelial cell suspension), and G4 (autologous esophageal epithelial cell suspension combined with esophageal stent). Post-ESD status was observed in each group, and endoscopy was performed weekly. Esophageal stents were removed 3 weeks after ESD. The esophageal stricture rates and histologic characteristics were assessed 4 weeks after ESD.

RESULTS

G1 showed the greatest weight loss (p < 0.05). Dysphagia scores were not significantly different among the groups. The esophageal mucosal stricture rates were 77.7 ± 2.9%, 74.2 ± 1.9%, 69.2 ± 3.8% and 65.9 ± 1.9% in G1-4, respectively; with the highest in G1 (G1 vs. G3, p = 0.005; G1 vs. G4, p = 0.001). The regenerated epithelium lengths were 4.408 ± 1.980 mm, 8.319 ± 0.857 mm, 11.801 ± 2.455 mm and 12.353 ± 1.111 mm in G1-4, respectively. The lowest degree of re-epithelialization was observed in G1, followed by G2, with the highest degrees in G3 and G4 (G1 vs. G3, p = 0.001; G1 vs. G4, p = 0.000). The maximum wound fibrosis thicknesses were 2.546 ± 0.389 mm, 2.136 ± 0.231 mm, 1.126 ± 0.211 mm and 1.131 ± 0.438 mm in G1-4, respectively, with higher degrees in G1 and G2 than in G3 and G4 (G1 vs. G3, p = 0.001; G1 vs. G4, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous esophageal epithelial cell suspensions can promote re-epithelialization and reduce fibrosis, thus decreasing esophageal stricture severity after ESD.

Prevention of esophageal stricture after endoscopic submucosal dissection of squamous cell carcinoma using a 20-French nasogastric tube combined with oral steroid administration

BACKGROUND

Esophageal stricture is a major complication after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and when the mucosal defect exceeds 3/4 of the circumference. Various preventive methods have been reported to prevent stenosis. However, in the case of circumferential ESD, there is no way to prevent luminal stenosis effectively. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of 20-French nasogastric tubes (NGT) combined with oral steroids for the prevention of esophageal stricture after endoscopic submucosal dissection.

METHODS

Between January 2012 and December 2021, we enrolled 57 patients with post-ESD mucosal defects exceeding 3/4 of the esophageal circumference. Of them, the initial seven patients received oral steroid therapy and the subsequent 50 patients received 20-French NGT placements combined with oral steroid therapy. We retrospectively evaluated the rates of strictures and refractory strictures and explored risk factors for strictures with 20-French NGT.

RESULTS

The overall esophageal stricture rate was 42.1% (24/57). In the noncircumferential group, the esophageal stricture rate in patients with only oral steroid to prevent esophageal stricture was 85.7% (6/7), while the esophageal stricture rate was only 4.3% (1/23) in those with 20-French NGT placements and oral steroid. All 27 patients with whole-circumferential resection received 20-French NGT placements. The stricture rate was 63.0% (17/27), and the refractory stricture rate was 17.6% (3/27).

CONCLUSION

Using a 20-French NGT placement combined with oral steroid administration is an easy and safe alternative to prevent esophageal stricture after ESD, especially for patients with noncircumferential mucosal defects. Further studies are needed to develop an effective stricture prevention method for post-ESD whole-circumferential mucosal defects of the esophagus.

Complete Circumferential Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Esophageal Cancer Leaving an Island of Normal Mucosa

Esophageal stricture caused by complete circumferential endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of extensive esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a major concern and can result in a low quality of life. Normal mucosa may remain within a complete circumferential lesion of ESCC in some cases. We herein report a case of ESCC in which a complete circumferential lesion was treated with ESD while leaving an island of normal mucosa within it. This case demonstrates that preserving areas of normal mucosa within lesions during complete circumferential ESD is not technically difficult and may be an effective measure for preventing esophageal stricture.

Prevention of esophageal stenosis via in situ cross-linkable alginate/gelatin powder in a new submucosal exfoliation model in rats

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for the treatment of esophageal mucosal lesions often leads to postoperative stenosis, causing difficulty in swallowing, known as dysphagia. In this study, we developed an in situ cross-linkable powder composed of alginate, gelatin, transglutaminase (TG), and calcium chloride ions (Ca2+), which can be administered through a 1.5 m-long and 3.2 mm-diameter endoscopic instrument channel. The powdered mixture of alginate and gelatin quickly formed a hydrogel by absorbing body fluids and was cross-linked by TG and Ca2+, which adhered ex vivo to porcine submucosal layers for over 2 weeks. In addition, we developed a new submucosal exfoliation model in rats that induced severe stenosis, similar to the ESD-induced stenosis models in clinical practice. When administered to the new rat model, the powder system effectively reduced the severity of esophageal stenosis based on body weight change monitoring, anatomical findings, and histological analysis. The body weight of the rats was maintained at the initial weight on postoperative day 14 (POD14), and epithelialization on POD7 and 14 improved to almost 100%. Additionally, collagen accumulation and the number of α-SMA-positive cells decreased due to powder administration. Therefore, these findings indicate that the in situ cross-linkable powder can prevent esophageal stenosis after ESD.

Prophylactic Acid-suppression Medication to Prevent Anastomotic Strictures After Oesophageal Atresia Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic stricture is a common postoperative complication of oesophageal atresia ± tracheoesophageal fistula (OA/TOF) repair. Acid gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is considered to be a factor in stricture formation and acid suppression medication is recommended post-operatively in consensus guidance. We aimed to investigate whether patients who were treated prophylactically with acid suppression medication had a reduced incidence of strictures compared to those who did not receive it.

METHODS

A systematic review of studies was performed, searching multiple databases without language or date restrictions. Multiple reviewers independently assessed study eligibility and literature quality. The primary outcome was anastomotic stricture formation, with secondary outcomes of GORD, anastomotic leak, and oesophagitis. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model, and the results were expressed as an odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

No randomised studies on the topic were identified. Twelve observational studies were included in the analysis with ten reporting the primary outcome. The quality assessment showed a high risk of bias in several papers, predominantly due to non-objective methods of assessment of oesophageal stricture and the non-prospective, non-randomised nature of the studies. Overall, 1395 patients were evaluated, of which 753 received acid suppression medication. Meta-analysis revealed a trend towards increased odds of anastomotic strictures in infants receiving prophylactic medication, but this was not statistically significant (OR 1.33; 95% CI 0.92, 1.92). No significant differences were found in secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis found no evidence of a statistically significant link between the prophylactic prescribing of acid suppression medication and the risk of developing anastomotic stricture after OA repair. The literature in this area is limited to observational studies and a randomised controlled trial is recommended to explore this question.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Infigratinib, a Selective Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor, Suppresses Stent-Induced Tissue Hyperplasia in a Rat Esophageal Model

PURPOSE

Stent-induced tissue hyperplasia remains a challenge for the application of self-expanding metal stents in the management of esophageal stricture. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of infigratinib, which is a selective fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitor, in the prevention of stent-induced tissue hyperplasia in a rat esophageal model.

METHODS

Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent esophageal stent placement and were randomized to receive 1 ml of vehicle, 5 mg/kg infigratinib in 1 ml of vehicle, or 10 mg/kg infigratinib in 1 ml of vehicle via naso-gastric tube once daily for 28 days. Follow-up fluoroscopy was performed on postoperative day 28, and the stented esophageal tissues were harvested for histological and immunofluorescence examinations.

RESULTS

All rats survived until euthanasia on postoperative day 28 without procedure-related adverse events. The incidence of stent migration was 12.5%, 12.5% and 25% in the control group, the 5 mg/kg infigratinib group and, the 10 mg/kg infigratinib group, respectively. The percentage of granulation tissue area, the submucosal fibrosis thickness, the number of epithelial layers, the degree of inflammatory cell infiltration, the degree of collagen deposition, the number of fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1)-expressing myofibroblasts, and the number of proliferating myofibroblasts were all significantly lower in both infigratinib groups than in the control group (P < 0.05) but were not significantly different between the two infigratinib groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Infigratinib significantly suppresses stent-induced tissue hyperplasia by inhibiting FGFR1-mediated myofibroblast proliferation and profibrotic activities in a rat esophageal model.

Predictors of stricture after non-circumferential endoscopic submucosal dissection of the esophagus and single-dose triamcinolone injection immediately after the procedure

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Local triamcinolone (TA) injection is widely used to prevent stricture formation after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). However, stricture develops in up to 45% of patients despite this prophylactic measure. We therefore conducted a single-center prospective study to identify predictors of stricture after esophageal ESD and local TA injection.

METHODS

Patients who underwent esophageal ESD and local TA injection and who were comprehensively assessed for lesion- and ESD-related factors were included in the study. Multivariate analyses were conducted to identify the predictors of stricture.

RESULTS

A total of 203 patients were included in the analysis. Multivariate analysis identified residual mucosal width ≤5 mm (odds ratio [OR], 29.0; P < .0001) or 6 to 10 mm (OR, 3.7; P = .04), history of chemoradiotherapy (OR, 5.1; P = .045), and tumor in the cervical or upper thoracic esophagus (OR, 3.8; P = .018) as independent predictors of stricture. Based on the ORs of the predictors, patients were stratified into 2 groups according to stricture risk: patients in the high-risk group (residual mucosal width ≤5 mm or 6-10 mm with another predictor) had a stricture rate of 52.5% (31 of 59 cases), and patients in the low-risk group (residual mucosal width ≥11 mm or 6-10 mm without other predictors) had a stricture rate of 6.3% (9 of 144 cases).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified predictors of stricture after ESD and local TA injection. Local TA injection prevented stricture formation after ESD in low-risk patients but was not sufficient to prevent stricture in high-risk patients. Additional interventions should thus be considered in high-risk patients. (University Hospital Medical Network Clinical Trials Registry number: UMIN 000028894.).

Self-help inflatable balloon versus autologous skin-grafting surgery for preventing esophageal stricture after complete circular endoscopic submucosal dissection: a propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

The self-help inflatable balloon (SHIB) and autologous skin-grafting surgery (ASGS) were used to prevent stricture after esophageal complete circular endoscopic submucosal dissection (cESD) with promising clinical results. We aim to evaluate which method is more suitable for patients who underwent esophageal cESD.

METHODS

From October 2017 to July 2021, patients whose mucosal defect length were between 30 and 100 mm after esophageal cESD were retrospectively reviewed from two prospective studies. They were enrolled once SHIB or ASGS was used as preventive methods to prevent stricture. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance the baseline characteristics between the two groups. Comparisons were made between the two groups, including operation time, the longitudinal length of ulceration, fasting time, hospitalization days, and the incidence of stricture.

RESULTS

A total of 41 patients who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. The numbers of patients in SHIB group and ASGS group were 25 and 16, respectively. Fifteen patients in each group were selected after performing PSM. The basic baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups. The stricture rates were 20% (3/15) in SHIB group and 40% (6/15) in ASGS group, while the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.427). The SHIB group showed significantly shorter operation time, shorter hospitalization days, lower cost, and longer removing balloon/stent time compared with ASGS group (p < 0.001). Comparison of relevant stricture factors between the stricture group and non-stricture group revealed that longer longitudinal length of ulceration (> 60 mm) accounted for a higher proportion in stricture groups (p = 0.035).

CONCLUSION

Both the SHIB and ASGS had high efficacy and safety in preventing strictures in patients with mucosal defects no longer than 100 mm in length after esophageal cESD. The longitudinal length of ulceration > 60 mm was the independent factor for predicting stricture.

The role of polyglycolic acid sheets in the management of post-endoscopic submucosal dissection gastrointestinal bleeding and esophageal stricture: A PRISMA compliant systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

As a relatively minimally invasive technique, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is widely used for the treatment of gastrointestinal lesions. However, it is associated with complications, such as postoperative bleeding, stricture, and perforation. A covering method using polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets for ESD-induced ulcers has been reported to be effective in reducing the risk of post-ESD bleeding and esophageal stricture. Herein, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the role of PGA sheets in the prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding and esophageal stricture after ESD.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases on October 15, 2019. All eligible articles were selected based on the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The main outcomes were the rates of post-ESD gastrointestinal bleeding and esophageal stricture. Cochrane's Q statistic and I2 test were used to identify heterogeneity between the studies. When there was no obvious heterogeneity (I2 < 50%, P > .1), a fixed-effect model was used. When there was obvious heterogeneity (I2 > 50%, P < .1), a random effect model was used. Funnel plots and the Egger regression test were used to assess publication bias.

RESULTS

Fifteen articles were included in the meta-analysis, of which 7 were exclusively about the use of PGA sheets to prevent postoperative gastrointestinal bleeding, and the remaining reported the use of PGA sheets to prevent postoperative esophageal stenosis. Our analysis showed that preventive therapy with PGA sheets decreased the rates of post-ESD gastrointestinal bleeding (risk ratio [RR] = 0.35, 95% confidential interval [CI]: 0.19-0.64, P < .001) and esophageal stricture (RR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.27-0.79, P = .005), and the gastrointestinal bleeding and esophageal stricture rates after preventive treatment with PGA sheets were 5.7% (95% CI: 3.6%-8.8%) and 20.6% (95% CI: 14.5%-28.4%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The utilization of PGA sheets after ESD has an excellent outcome in reducing the risk of postoperative gastrointestinal bleeding and esophageal stricture.

[Effect and mechanism of glucocorticoids in preventing stenosis after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection]

Objective: To explore the role and specific mechanism of glucocorticoids in preventing stenosis after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Methods: Data of 81 patients [51 cases were male and 30 cases were female, aged (62.09±7.95) years] undergoing early esophageal cancer or precancerous lesions with a stripping range ≥3/4 circle hospitalized from January 2019 to February 2021 in Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University. They were randomly divided into the control group (n=23), oral prednisone acetate group (n=28) and/or combined with local injection Triamcinolone acetonide group (n=30). Analysis the stenosis rates, endoscopic stent dilatation times, the scores of the Atkinson classification and QLQ-OES18 after 12 weeks. Also the expression of carbohydrate sulfotransferase15 (CHST15) mRNA, TGF-β1 and Collagen-Ⅰ protein were compared by real-time PCR or immunohistochemistry. Results: The stenosis rates of the control group, oral prednisone acetate group and/or combined with local injection Triamcinolone acetonide group were 82.6% (19/23), 46.4% (13/28) and 20.0% (6/30) (P<0.001); endoscopic stent dilatation times [M (Q₁,Q₃)] in these three groups were 2 (1, 3), 0 (0, 0) and 0 (0, 0) (P<0.001). After ESD, the scores of the Atkinson classification and QLQ-OES18 in the three groups were lower than before (P<0.001); and the expression of CHST15 mRNA in the three groups were 4.31±0.13, 3.44±0.07 and 2.84±0.21 respectively (P<0.001). Compared with the control group, the expression of CHST15 mRNA in oral prednisone acetate group was down-regulated (P<0.001), and was the lowest in oral prednisone acetate combined with local injection Triamcinolone acetonide group (P<0.001). As CHST15 mRNA was down-regulated, the expression of TGF-β1 and Collagen-I protein was also down-regulated (P<0.05). Conclusions: Oral prednisone alone or combined with local injection of triamcinolone acetonide both can prevent esophageal stenosis effectively. Oral combined with local injection of glucocorticoid is particularly more effective. Glucocorticoid can reduce the expression of CHST15 mRNA, thereby inhibiting the expression of TGF-β1 and Collagen-I protein.

Esophageal Mucosal Autograft for Preventing Stricture After Widespread Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection of Superficial Esophageal Lesions

BACKGROUND

Although esophageal mucosal autograft prevents esophageal stricture after widespread endoscopic submucosal dissec- tion and has been reported as a new technique, it is relatively unproven in clinical practice. This prospective study was conducted to evaluate our experience using esophageal mucosal autograft to prevent strictures after widespread endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients with widespread superficial esophageal lesions.

METHODS

Between October 2017 and June 2018, 15 patients with widespread superficial esophageal lesions were consecutively treated with widespread endoscopic submucosal dissection and then underwent esophageal mucosal autograft. The main outcomes measured included esophageal epithelialization and esophageal stricture.

RESULTS

The median longitudinal diameter of the widespread superficial esophageal lesions was 5.2 cm. All 15 patients were success- fully treated with widespread endoscopic submucosal dissection and esophageal mucosal autograft, and the median procedural time was 182 minutes. During follow-up (median, 23 months), esophageal epithelialization was found in 13 patients (86.7%), and 7 patients experienced esophageal stricture (46.7%). In those 7 patients, the esophageal strictures were successfully relieved after endoscopic bal- loon dilation or endoscopic radial incision. No complications related to endoscopic balloon dilation/endoscopic radial incision occurred. Additionally, local recurrence was found in 1 patient with poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, and further surgical resection was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Esophageal mucosal autograft appears to be an efficient approach to reconstructing local esophageal epithelium and might have a potential role in preventing esophageal stricture after widespread endoscopic submucosal dissection. However, as a new technique, it needs more improvement to enhance its role in preventing esophageal stricture after widespread endoscopic submucosal dissection.

RESULTS OF PREVENTIVE METHODS OF OCCURRENCE CERVICAL ANASTOMOTIC COMPLICATIONS IN ESOPHAGOPLASTY

OBJECTIVE

The aim: The aim of the study was to improve the results of surgical treatment in patients with corrosive esophageal strictures using the designed comprehensive surgical management program in esophagoplasty to decrease cervical anastomotic complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and methods: The results of surgical treatment of 116 patients with esophageal strictures were studied. 45 patients had post-burn corrosive strictures, 17 - postoperative corrosive strictures, 10 - peptic strictures due to reflux esophagitis and 44 patients - esophageal cancer. All patients were divided into two groups: the control group, consisting of 55 patients who underwent conventional surgical treatment of corrosive esophageal strictures during 2005-2011, and experimental group involving 61 patients operated on during 2012- 2020, in whom an individual approach to the choice of surgical method was applied using diagnostic and treatment algorithm as well as the designed surgical management program.

RESULTS

Results: In early postoperative period the proportion of specific and non-specific complications was significantly lower in experimental group as compared to the control group: cervical anastomotic leak - 16.36 % versus 4.392 %; strictures of cervical anastomosis - 20.0% versus 6.56 % (p<0.05). There were six postoperative deaths - four in the control group and two in experimental group.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: To prevent the development of cervical anastomotic complications and mortality in esophagoplasty proper therapeutic approach with consideration of all prognostic criteria and risk factors should be chosen and designed surgical management program should be applied.

Diagnosis and management of pharyngoesophageal stenosis: A comprehensive approach to prophylactic, endoscopic, and reconstructive treatment options

BACKGROUND

Pharyngoesophageal stenosis (PES) is a serious complication that substantially impacts functional outcomes and quality of life (QOL) for up to a third of head and neck cancer patients who undergo radiotherapy. Dysphagia is often multifactorial in nature and is a devastating complication of treatment that impacts patients' QOL, general health and overall wellbeing. The authors detail the clinical presentation, risk factors, imaging characteristics, preventive measures, and multimodality treatment options for PES.

METHODS

The authors present a comprehensive management algorithm for PES, including treatment by dilation, stenting, spray cryotherapy and dilation, and reconstructive treatment options utilizing different pedicled and free flaps.

RESULTS

The authors advocate for a thorough assessment of the extent and degree of pharyngoesophageal involvement of PES to determine the optimal management strategy.

CONCLUSIONS

The development of post treatment dysphagia requires appropriate imaging and biopsy, when indicated, to rule out the presence of persistent/recurrent cancer. Multidisciplinary management by a team of physicians well-versed in the range of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions available for PES is critical to its successful management.

Woody hardness classification impact on salvage laryngectomy functional outcomes

PURPOSE

Post-radiation therapy salvage surgeries are challenging for surgeons due to tissue fibrosis. The woody hardness classification is valuable in differentiating the degree of neck stiffness, but its clinical utility has not been evaluated. We applied it to patients undergoing salvage laryngectomy to study the impact of woody hardness on postoperative outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective observational study was performed on patients undergoing salvage laryngectomy between 2014 and 2019. Patients were assigned into the A (extremely woody hard), B (moderately woody hard), or C (mildly woody hard) woody hardness class. The primary outcome was pharyngoesophageal stricture development. Secondary outcomes included time to pharyngoesophageal stricture, pharyngocutaneous fistula development, time to pharyngocutaneous fistula, development of post-operative complications, and tracheoesophageal puncture complications.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients were included in the study: Class A 1 patient, Class B 30 patients, and Class C 20 patients. The single Class A patient was grouped with the Class B patients. The development of a pharyngoesophageal stricture shows consistent negative association with woody hardness despite most analyses not reaching statistical significance. These associations are robust to a number of confounding variables in multivariate logistic and time to event analyses. Furthermore, the time to event analysis controlling for squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis led to a statistically significant association between woody hardness (i.e., A/B higher risk) and time to stricture (HR=5, p=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that this classification may be useful in predicting pharyngoesophageal stricture formation in salvage laryngectomy patients and could be used to implement stricture preventive measures.

A New Approach to Tense End-to-End Anostomosis in Primary Surgical Repair of Esophageal Atresia: Vascularized Pleural Flap

Background: Esophageal atresia (EA) is the most common congenital malformation of the esophagus. If the distance between the proximal and distal pouches is usually more than 2-3 cm, it is considered as long gap esophageal atresia (LGEA). In our study, it was planned to investigate the effect of the use of vascularized pleural flap (VPF) on postoperative recovery in cases with tense end-to-end anastomosis in the primary repair of LGEA. Methods: The postoperative recovery period data of patients who underwent tense end-to-end anastomosis due to LGEA between 01/01/2016 and 01/12/2020 in our clinic were analyzed retrospectively. Results: Between the specified dates, 37 patients were operated for EA. A tense end-to-end anastomosis was performed in 16 of 37 patients. In 5 of these patients, a VPF was placed on the anastomosis line. In the postoperative follow-up, no anastomotic leakage or anastomotic stenosis was observed in 5 patients who underwent tense anastomosis with VPF. In addition, it was observed that patients who underwent tense anastomosis with VPF were started oral nutrition earlier after surgery compared to patients without VPF. Conclusion: The success of the technique we performed in 5 patients without any complications suggested that this technique could be used as a method in tense anastomoses. It was thought that oral nutrition was initiated early in patients using VPF, since there was no anastomotic leak and the surgeon relied on the presence of the VPF.

Association Between Administration of Antacid Medication and Anastomotic Stricture Formation After Repair of Esophageal Atresia

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic stricture is a significant cause of morbidity after repair of esophageal atresia (EA). Exposure to gastric acid has been postulated to contribute to stricture development and severity leading to prophylactic antacid use by some surgeons. We investigated the association between administration of antacid medication and the development of anastomotic strictures.

METHODS

Retrospective case-note review of consecutive infants undergoing repair of EA with distal tracheoesophageal fistula (type C) between January 1994 and December 2014. Only infants who underwent primary esophageal anastomosis at initial surgical procedure were included. Stricture-related outcomes were compared initially for infants who received prophylactic antacid medication (PAAM) versus no prophylaxis, and the role of PAAM in stricture prevention was explored in a multivariate model. Outcomes were also compared for infants grouped by antacid use at any stage.

RESULTS

One hundred fourteen infants were included. Sixteen infants received PAAM at surgeon preference. Of the remaining 98 infants, 44 subsequently received antacid as treatment for gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and 54 never received antacid medication. There was no statistically significant association between incidence of stricture in the first year (10 of 16 versus 41 of 98; P = 0.18) nor time to first stricture (median, 57 d [41-268] versus 102 d [43-320]; P = 0.89) and administration of PAAM. Similarly, there were no statistically significant associations between incidence of stricture, age at first stricture and number of dilatations, and administration of antacid medication either as prophylaxis nor when given as treatment for symptoms or signs of GER.

CONCLUSIONS

These data do not support the hypothesis that PAAM reduces the incidence or severity of anastomotic stricture after repair of EA. Treatment with antacids may be best reserved for those with symptoms or signs of GER. Further prospective investigation of the role of antacid prophylaxis on stricture formation after EA repair is warranted.

MODERN METHODS OF PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF COMPLICATIONS OF CERVICAL ESOPHAGO-ORGAN ANASTOMOSIS AT ESOPHAGOPLASTY

OBJECTIVE

The aim: To improve the results of operative treatment of esophageal strictures by decreasing the rate of failure and stricture of cervical esophago-organ anastomoses.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and methods: There were 45 patients with post-burn corrosive gullet strictures, 17 patients with postoperative corrosive strictures, 10 patients with peptic strictures secondary to reflux-esophagitis, 42 patients with esophageal cancer strictures. The patients were divided into two groups: the comparison group - 55 persons and the main group - 59 persons. Patients of comparison group underwent surgical treatment of esophageal strictures according to classic protocols and standards. In the main group of patients we applied proposed diagnostic algorithm with prediction of complication risk and the designed method of esophago-organ anastomosis formation.

RESULTS

Results: The results of operative treatment in patients with esophageal strictures showed the development of early postoperative complications in 59 individuals (51.75 %). In the postoperative period six patients died: four - in the comparison group and two - in the main group. Failure of cervical esophago-organ anastomosis and esophageal strictures occurred in 7 patients (11.86 %) of main group and 20 patients (36.36 %) of the comparison group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: Application of method predicting the risk of complications of cervical anastomosis, treatment program and instrumental method of formation anastomosis resulted in reduced incidence of failure and strictures of esophago-organ anastomosis from 36.36 % to 11.86 % (p<0.05); decreased time of hospitalization - from 28.2 ± 1.1 to 21.5 ± 0.5 bed-days (p<0.001), postoperative period - from 20.5 ± 1.1 to 16.1 ± 0.7 bed-days (p<0.01); decreased postoperative mortality - from 7.27 % to 3.39 %.

Intralesional steroid injections to prevent refractory strictures in patients with oesophageal atresia: study protocol for an international, multicentre randomised controlled trial (STEPS-EA trial)

INTRODUCTION

Anastomotic stricture formation is the most common postoperative complication after oesophageal atresia (OA) repair. The standard of care is endoscopic dilatation. A possible adjuvant treatment is intralesional steroid injection, which is thought to inhibit scar tissue formation and thereby to prevent stricture recurrence. We hypothesise that this intervention could prevent refractory strictures and reduce the total number of dilatations needed in these children.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is an international multicentre randomised controlled trial. Children with OA type C (n=110) will be randomised into intralesional steroid injection followed by balloon dilatation or dilatation only. Randomisation and intervention will take place when a third dilatation is performed. The indication for dilatation will be confirmed with an oesophagram. One radiologist-blinded for randomisation-will review all oesophagrams. The primary outcome parameter is the total number of dilatations needed with <28 days' interval, which will be analysed with a linear-by-linear χ² association test. Secondary outcome parameters include the level of dysphagia, the luminal oesophageal diameter and stricture length (measured on the oesophagrams), the influence of comedication on stricture formation, systemic effects of intralesional steroids (cortisol levels, length and weight) and the cost-effectiveness. Patients will undergo a second oesophagram; length and weight will be measured repeatedly; a scalp hair sample will be collected; and three questionnaires will be administered. The follow-up period will be 6 months, with evaluation at 2-3 weeks, 3 and 6 months after the intervention.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Patients will be included after written parental informed consent. The risks and burden associated with this trial are minimal. The institutional review board of the Erasmus Medical Centre approved this protocol (MEC-2018-1586/NL65364.078.18). The results of the trial will be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal and will be presented at international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS

2018-002863-24 and NTR7726/NL7484.

Fallback technique with circular stapler prevents anastomotic obstruction after esophagectomy: A case report of surgical approach

RATIONALE

While performing esophago-ileal anastomosis after esophagectomy with circular staplers, the mucosal folds of the ileum can complicate stapling and lead to obstruction, especially when the diameter of the circular stapler is equal or greater than that of the small bowel lumen.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 53-year-old man, presented with complaints of difficulty in swallowing for 2 weeks. Fifteen years previously, he had undergone partial gastrectomy for gastric ulcers.

DIAGNOSIS

The endoscopy showed that there was a large ulcer in the middle-third of the esophagus, about 28 to 32 cm from the incisors. Biopsy of the ulcer confirmed esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

INTERVENTIONS

We performed an esophageal replacement using the right colon with circular staplers, but anastomotic site occurred due to stacking of the mucosa ahead of the stapler. To revise the anastomosis, we inserted the stapler 2 to 3 cm farther into the lumen than the intended site of anastomosis, and then pulled it back and rotated the stapler to complete the anastomosis. Consequently, the obstruction was corrected.

OUTCOMES

With nearly 16 months' follow-up duration until now, the patient has no difficulty swallowing and has twice received chemotherapy, and returned to his normal life relatively.

LESSONS

In the event of potential anastomotic obstruction due to accumulated mucosa, the stapler fallback technique can be successfully used achieve patent anastomosis.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis and the Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases: Approach to Diagnosis and Management

The eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs) represent disorders of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that result from the local infiltration and aberrant activity of eosinophils and other immune cells. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is the most well-characterized EGID and is defined by the presence of intraepithelial eosinophils in the esophagus (≥15 eosinophils per high-powered field) and clinical symptoms associated with esophageal dysfunction. The other EGIDs are rare and lack strong data regarding pathogenesis and management. The incidence and prevalence of EoE are increasing, and EoE is now a major cause of upper GI morbidity. Management is multidisciplinary, with collaboration between gastroenterologists, allergists, pathologists, and dieticians, and is aimed at amelioration of symptoms and prevention of long-term complications such as esophageal stricture. Treatment options for EoE include proton pump inhibitors, swallowed topical corticosteroids, and elimination diets. Esophageal dilation is used when esophageal strictures or fibrostenotic changes are present. Additional therapies targeting eosinophils and other mediators of Th2 inflammation are under development and are promising. Treatment options for other EGIDs typically involve corticosteroids or dietary elimination.

Effect of polyglycolic acid sheet plus esophageal stent placement in preventing esophageal stricture after endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients with early-stage esophageal cancer: A randomized, controlled trial

AIM

To assess the effect of polyglycolic acid (PGA) plus stent placement compared with stent placement alone in the prevention of post-endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) esophageal stricture in early-stage esophageal cancer (EC) patients.

METHODS

Seventy EC patients undergoing ESD were enrolled in this randomized, controlled study. Patients were allocated randomly at a 1:1 ratio into two groups as follows: (1) PGA plus stent group (PGA sheet-coated stent placement was performed); and (2) Stent group (only stent placement was performed). This study was registered on http://www.chictr.org.cn (No. chictr-inr-16008709).

RESULTS

The occurrence rate of esophageal stricture in the PGA plus stent group was 20.5% (n = 7), which was lower than that in the stent group (46.9%, n = 15) (P = 0.024). The mean value of esophageal stricture time was 59.6 ± 16.1 d and 70.7 ± 28.6 d in the PGA plus stent group and stent group (P = 0.174), respectively. Times of balloon dilatation in the PGA plus stent group were less than those in the stent group [4 (2-5) vs 6 (1-14), P = 0.007]. The length (P = 0.080) and diameter (P = 0.061) of esophageal strictures were numerically decreased in the PGA plus stent group, whereas no difference in location (P = 0.232) between the two groups was found. Multivariate logistic analysis suggested that PGA plus stent placement (P = 0.026) was an independent predictive factor for a lower risk of esophageal stricture, while location in the middle third (P = 0.034) and circumferential range = 1/1 (P = 0.028) could independently predict a higher risk of esophageal stricture in EC patients after ESD.

CONCLUSION

PGA plus stent placement is more effective in preventing post-ESD esophageal stricture compared with stent placement alone in EC patients with early-stage disease.

The role of maintenance therapy in eosinophilic esophagitis: who, why, and how?

In patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) who do not respond to proton pump inhibitors, initial anti-inflammatory/anti-eosinophilic treatment is with either topical corticosteroids or dietary elimination. A large body of literature supports the efficacy of these approaches, with histologic response rates in the 50-90% range for steroids and 70% range for the six-food elimination diet. However, these studies are almost all short-term and data evaluating long-term safety and efficacy of either treatment are limited. Nevertheless, because EoE is chronic, symptomatic, endoscopic, and histologic disease activity recurs when successful treatments are stopped. An emerging body of data also suggest that left untreated, persistent eosinophilic esophageal inflammation may progress to fibrostenosis over time. Therefore, maintenance therapy in EoE is intuitively attractive. This paper reviews the rationale for maintenance treatment in EoE, the available long-term pharmacologic and dietary response data for EoE, and discusses who may benefit the most from ongoing treatment. While all patients with EoE can be offered maintenance treatment, this option should be strongly recommended in patients with severe disease phenotypes or complications, including malnutrition or failure to thrive, esophageal fibrostenosis, strictures requiring dilation, recurrent food bolus impaction, history of perforation, and symptoms that recur quickly after treatment discontinuation. In all EoE patients, regular follow-up is also advised.

Approaches for stricture prevention after esophageal endoscopic resection

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic resection of extensive esophageal lesions has become more common as endoscopic resection techniques and equipment have developed. However, extensive esophageal endoscopic resections can cause postoperative esophageal strictures, which have a negative impact on the quality of life of patients. We aimed to review current treatments and innovative approaches to prevent esophageal strictures after widespread endoscopic resection of esophageal lesions.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive literature search from 2000 to 2016 using predetermined search terms to identify relevant articles and summarized their results as a narrative review.

RESULTS

A total of 21 original articles and case series were identified. A circumferential mucosal defect involving more than three fourths of the esophageal luminal circumference was the primary risk factor for developing an esophageal stricture after endoscopic resection. Oral and injectable steroid therapy demonstrated promise in preventing post-endoscopic submucosal dissection esophageal strictures, with both strategies significantly reducing the number of required endoscopic balloon dilations. More data are needed on prophylactic self-expandable metal stents, local botulinum toxin injection, and oral tranilast as a strategy to prevent post-endoscopic submucosal dissection esophageal strictures. Although preliminary studies of tissue-shielding resection sites with polyglycolic acid sheets and fibrin glue and autologous cell sheet transplantation have demonstrated promising results, additional larger validation studies are needed.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral and locally injected/administered steroids are first-line options for the prevention of esophageal strictures, but additional innovative solutions are being developed.

Prophylactic stenting for esophageal stricture prevention after endoscopic submucosal dissection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of superficial esophageal cancer has been increasingly used as an alternative to surgery because it is minimally invasive and has a high rate of en bloc resection. However, a high rate of esophageal stricture is observed after ESD for large lesions, which can dramatically decrease the patient’s quality of life. Stricture prevention is necessary to allow for endoscopic therapy to expand. We, herein, review the most recent evidence and discuss the role of the metallic self-expandable stent and the biodegradable stent in esophageal stricture prevention. Limited studies suggested that prophylactic stenting could reduce the stricture rate without increasing the number of complications. In addition, the number of bougie dilation procedures was significantly lower with stent placement. Esophageal stenting is a promising option for post-ESD stricture prevention. However, current evidence is too preliminary to formulate practice standards. Future studies are needed to further validate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic stenting and determine the best strategy for stricture prevention. Stent migration is the most common complication. A new stent that has advantages of a low migration rate and minimal tissue reaction will need to be developed. Therefore, randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up periods are required before prophylactic stenting could be considered a valid option to prevent post-ESD stricture.

Dilations of anastomotic strictures over time after repair of esophageal atresia

AIM OF THE STUDY

Anastomotic strictures commonly occur in patients undergoing surgery for esophageal atresia (EA). The primary aim of this study was to determine the age distribution of dilation procedures for anastomotic strictures over the patient's childhood after reconstruction of EA. The secondary aim was to evaluate the effect of postoperative proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on the frequency of dilations.

METHODS

This observational study was conducted at a single tertiary center of pediatric surgery. The times that dilations of strictures were performed were assessed during three study periods: 1983-1995, 2001-2009, and 2010-2014. PPIs were not used during the first period, and then, respectively, for 3 and 12 months postoperatively. The indications for dilation were signs of obstruction and/or radiological signs of stricture.

PRIMARY RESULTS

A total of 131 children underwent esophageal reconstruction, and of those, 60 (46%) required at least 1 dilation procedure for strictures. There were no differences in the frequencies of dilation procedures between the three study periods (28/66, 18/32 and 14/33, respectively; P = 0.42). The overall median number of dilations per patient was 3 (range 1-21) with no differences between the study periods. The differences between ages at which the first dilation was performed during each study period were significant, as follows: 7, 2, and 8 months, respectively (P = 0.03). Fiftyone percent of all dilation procedures were performed during the first year of life, 16% during the second year, and 33% during years 2-15. Four children (2%) underwent >12 dilations.

CONCLUSION

The first year of life was the time of greatest need for dilation of AS after reconstruction of EA; however, dilations were also performed several years later. PPIs did not affect the frequency of dilations during the first year of life.

Protective effects of ursodeoxycholic acid in experimental corrosive esophagitis injury in rats

Accidental caustic ingestions are serious medical problems especially in childhood. Various treatment modalities are being used for the complications of caustic injuries such as stricture formation. The aim of this study is to establish whether ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) has protective effects on experimental corrosive esophagitis in rats. Twenty four Wistar-albino rats, weighing 220-240 g, were used in the study. Experimental animals were divided in three groups randomly: UDCA treatment group (Group T, n:8), control group (Group K, n: 8) and sham group (Group S, n: 8). In group T and S corrosive esophagitis was induced. UDCA (5 mg/kg) was performed to the group T for 10 days orally. All animals were sacrificed at the end of procedures and histopathological changes in esophageal tissue were scored by a single investigator who was blind to the groups. In group T inflammation was present in two rats, muscularis mucosa injury in two rats, grade 1 collagen deposition in six rats and grade 2 in two rats. In comparison with group S these were statistically significant (p value was 0.003, 0.003 and 0.015, respectively). UDCA has protective effect in experimental corrosive esophagitis.

KEY WORDS

Corrosive esophagitis, Rat, Stricture, Ursodeoxycholic acid.

Prevention of esophageal strictures after endoscopic submucosal dissection with the injection of botulinum toxin type A

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The use of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for management of widespread superficial esophageal squamous carcinoma is closely associated with esophageal stenosis. We investigated the efficacy and feasibility of endoscopic injection of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) for preventing esophageal strictures after ESD for superficial esophageal squamous carcinoma.

METHODS

Sixty-seven patients with superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinomas with mucosal defects that exceeded one half of the circumference of the esophagus after ESD treatment were enrolled and randomly divided into 2 groups (group A, n = 33; group B, n = 34). Patients in group A (BTX-A group) were immediately injected with BTX-A after ESD, whereas patients in group B (control group) received ESD only. Endoscopy was performed when patients reported dysphagia symptoms and at 12 weeks post-ESD in patients without symptoms. Patients who experienced post-ESD esophageal strictures in both groups received bougie dilation.

RESULTS

The number of patients who experienced esophageal strictures in group A (per protocol analysis, 6.1%, 2/33; intention to treat analysis, 11.4%, 4/35) was significantly less than that seen in group B (per protocol analysis, 32.4%, 11/34; intention to treat analysis, 37.8%, 14/37) (P < .05). Moreover, the number of bougie dilation procedures was significantly lower in group A (mean, 1.5; range, 0-2) than in group B (mean, 2.8; range, 0-5) (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic injection of BTX-A was effective in preventing post-ESD esophageal strictures and decreasing the times of bougie dilation procedures. (

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR-TRC-12003188.).

[Use of corticosteroids in esophagitis caustic ingestion. Report of two cases]

Exposure to potentially toxic substances represents 0.3% of annual visits to a pediatric emergency department, being a situation likely to be prevented and that generates a non-negligible morbidity and mortality. The most common route of exposure is the oral and drugs are the products most frequently involved. Esophagitis caustic ingestion of corrosive substances in childhood is now a public health problem in developing countries. Clinical manifestations vary from no injuries serious commitment to high risk of death observed more frequently in patients between one and three years old. In addition to drilling, the most severe complication of esophagitis is caustic stricture formation, which occurs at a frequency of 5% to 47% in severe cases. The role of systemic corticosteroids in preventing caustic esophageal stenosis is still considered controversial, despite the many published reports showing your benefit. We report two cases of pediatric patients with caustic esophagitis IIB Zargar who received systemic corticosteroids with favorable evolution.

Optimization of steroid injection intervals for prevention of stricture after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection enables en bloc resection of large superficial esophageal cancer; however, this procedure may induce severe stricture. Intralesional steroid injection is an effective treatment for prevention of stricture after endoscopic resection; however, there have been no studies assessing the duration of such treatment. The aim of this study was to reduce treatment duration and to evaluate the effectiveness of weekly and biweekly steroid injections in preventing esophageal stricture after endoscopic resection.

PATIENTS METHOD

We performed a randomized controlled trial comparing patients receiving weekly or biweekly intralesional triamcinolone injections. Patients with a mucosal defect greater than 75% (3/4) of the luminal circumference after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection for superficial esophageal cancers were enrolled. The primary endpoint was the duration of steroid injection treatment.

RESULTS

The median duration of treatment was 37.0 days in the weekly group and 34.2 days in the biweekly group (P = 0.059). Among patients with a mucosal defect larger than 50 mm, there was a significant difference in the median duration of treatment between the weekly and biweekly groups (42.5 days vs 29.0 days, P = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Biweekly steroid injection of triamcinolone reduces treatment duration, particularly in those with mucosal defects larger than 50 mm. (Acta gastro-enterol. belg., 2016, 79, 315-320).

Cell Sheet Transplantation for Esophageal Stricture Prevention after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection in a Porcine Model

Background & Aims

Extended esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is highly responsible for esophageal stricture. We conducted a comparative study in a porcine model to evaluate the effectiveness of adipose tissue-derived stromal cell (ADSC) double cell sheet transplantation.

Methods

Twelve female pigs were treated with 5 cm long hemi-circumferential ESD and randomized in two groups. ADSC group (n = 6) received 4 double cell sheets of allogenic ADSC on a paper support membrane and control group (n = 6) received 4 paper support membranes. ADSC were labelled with PKH-67 fluorophore to allow probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopie (pCLE) monitoring. After 28 days follow-up, animals were sacrificed. At days 3, 14 and 28, endoscopic evaluation with pCLE and esophagography were performed.

Results

One animal from the control group was excluded (anesthetic complication). Animals from ADSC group showed less frequent alimentary trouble (17% vs 80%; P = 0.08) and higher gain weight on day 28. pCLE demonstrated a compatible cell signal in 4 animals of the ADSC group at day 3. In ADSC group, endoscopy showed that 1 out of 6(17%) animals developed a severe esophageal stricture comparatively to 100% (5/5) in the control group; P = 0.015. Esophagography demonstrated a decreased degree of stricture in the ADSC group on day 14 (44% vs 81%; P = 0.017) and day 28 (46% vs 90%; P = 0.035). Histological analysis showed a decreased fibrosis development in the ADSC group, in terms of surface (9.7 vs 26.1 mm²; P = 0.017) and maximal depth (1.6 vs 3.2 mm; P = 0.052).

Conclusion

In this model, transplantation of allogenic ADSC organized in double cell sheets after extended esophegeal ESD is strongly associated with a lower esophageal stricture’s rate.

Endoscopic submucosal tunnel dissection for large superficial esophageal squamous cell neoplasms

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a well-established treatment for superficial esophageal squamous cell neoplasms (SESCNs) with no risk of lymphatic metastasis. However, for large SESCNs, especially when exceeding two-thirds of the esophageal circumference, conventional ESD is time-consuming and has an increased risk of adverse events. Based on the submucosal tunnel conception, endoscopic submucosal tunnel dissection (ESTD) was first introduced by us to remove large SESCNs, with excellent results. Studies from different centers also reported favorable results. Compared with conventional ESD, ESTD has a more rapid dissection speed and R0 resection rate. Currently in China, ESTD for large SESCNs is an important part of the digestive endoscopic tunnel technique, as is peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia and submucosal tunnel endoscopic resection for submucosal tumors of the muscularis propria. However, not all patients with SESCNs are candidates for ESTD, and postoperative esophageal strictures should also be taken into consideration, especially for lesions with a circumference greater than three-quarters. In this article, we describe our experience, review the literature of ESTD, and provide detailed information on indications, standard procedures, outcomes, and complications of ESTD.

Embedded Three-Layer Esophagogastric Anastomosis Reduces Morbidity and Improves Short-Term Outcomes After Esophagectomy for Cancer

BACKGROUND

There exists great controversy regarding the use of esophagogastric anastomotic techniques in the treatment of esophageal cancer. The aim of this study was to compare two types of cervical esophagogastric anastomoses with respect to the reduction of postoperative anastomotic leaks, stenosis, and gastroesophageal reflux.

METHODS

From June 2010 to September 2013, 339 patients who underwent two different cervical esophagogastric anastomotic procedures after thoracolaparoscopic esophagectomy for esophageal cancer were identified.

RESULTS

A total of 166 patients with esophageal cancer were treated using an embedded three-layer anastomosis (embedded group), and 173 were treated using a conventional two-layer anastomosis (conventional group). The rates of anastomotic leak (2.4% [4 of 166] versus 7.5% [13 of 173], p = 0.031) and benign anastomotic stricture (4.8% [8 of 166] versus 12.7% [22 of 173], p = 0.010) were significantly lower in the embedded group compared with the conventional group. The mean reflux scores were significantly higher among the patients in the conventional group compared with the patients in the embedded group at 1 month (25.2 versus 19.0, p = 0.001), 3 months (27.8 versus 21.4, p = 0.001), and 6 months (23.4 versus 17.8, p < 0.001) of follow-up. The mean scores for dysphagia were significantly lower among the patients in the embedded group compared with the patients in the conventional group at both 3 months (22.7 versus 29.8, p = 0.012) and 6 months (16.0 versus 21.3, p = 0.008) of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The new embedded three-layer esophagogastric anastomosis offers several advantages and reduces the incidence of postoperative complications such as anastomotic leak, stricture, and gastroesophageal reflux.

Steroid Administration is Effective to Prevent Strictures After Endoscopic Esophageal Submucosal Dissection: A Network Meta-Analysis

Esophageal stricture is a severe adverse event after circumferential endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Steroid administration is a new method to prevent stricture formation. We performed a meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and safety of steroid administration to prevent esophageal stricture after circumferential ESD. PubMed, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Chinese Biomedical Database, and Clinicaltrials.gov were searched. Studies on steroid administration + endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) versus EBD alone for esophageal stricture were included and pooled analyzed in random-effects models. Besides, subgroup analysis and network analysis were performed to define the influence of ESD type and steroid administration method. Twelve studies involving 513 patients were included. Meta-analysis showed that steroid administration significantly achieved a lower stricture rate (risk ratio [RR], 0.40; 95% CI, 0.20-0.81) and less required EBD sessions (mean difference [MD], -4.33; 95% CI, -6.10 to -2.57) than control. Subgroup analysis indicated that steroid was effective after both semi- and complete circumferential ESD. Network meta-analysis showed that compared with oral steroid, local injected steroid had a similar effect to prevent stricture (RR, 1.16; 95% CI, 0.48-2.85), whereas a better effect to reduce required EBD sessions (MD, 7.77; 95%CI, 0.26-15.3). Additional steroid administration is effective to reduce the stricture rate and required EBD sessions. And local injected steroid was superior to oral steroid in EBD reduction, whereas due to the varied method and dose of steroid administration, the finding needs to be clarified in the future.

Useful strategies to prevent severe stricture after endoscopic submucosal dissection for superficial esophageal neoplasm

The minimal invasiveness of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) prompted us to apply this technique to large-size early esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and Barrett’s adenocarcinoma, despite the limitations in the study population and surveillance duration. A post-ESD ulceration of greater than three-fourths of esophageal circumference was advocated as an important risk factor for refractory strictures that require several sessions of dilation therapy. Most of the preoperative conditions are asymptomatic, but dilatation treatment for dysphagia associated with the stricture has potential risks of severe complications and a worsening of quality of life. Possible mechanisms of dysphasia were demonstrated based on dysmotility and pathological abnormalities at the site: (1) delayed mucosal healing; (2) severe inflammation and disorganized fibrosis with abundant extracellular matrices in the submucosa; and (3) atrophy in the muscularis proper. However, reports on the administration of anti-scarring agents, preventive dilation therapies, and regenerative medicine demonstrated limited success in stricture prevention, and there were discrepancies in the study designs and protocols of these reports. The development and consequent long-term assessments of new prophylactic technologies on the promotion of wound healing and control of the inflammatory/tumor microenvironment will require collaboration among various research fields because of the limited accuracy of preoperative staging and high-risk of local recurrence.

A randomized controlled trial of endoscopic steroid injection for prophylaxis of esophageal stenoses after extensive endoscopic submucosal dissection

BACKGROUND

Esophageal stenosis following endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a serious adverse event that makes subsequent management more difficult.

METHODS

This parallel, randomized, controlled, open-label study was designed to examine whether local steroid injection is an effective prophylactic treatment for esophageal stenoses following extensive ESD. This single center trial was conducted at the Keiyukai Hospital, a tertiary care center for gastrointestinal disease in Japan [University Hospital Medical Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN-CTR) on 15 September 2011 (UMIN000006327)]. Thirty-two patients with mucosal defects involving ≥75% of the esophageal circumference were randomized to receive a single dose of triamcinolone acetonide injections (n = 16) or be treated conventionally (n = 16). The primary outcome was the frequency of stricture requiring endoscopic dilatation; the surrogate primary endpoint was the number of dilatation sessions needed. Secondary outcomes included adverse event rates, the minimum diameter of the stenotic area and the duration of the course of dilatation treatments.

RESULTS

The frequency of stricture was not significantly different between the groups because of insufficient statistical power, but the number of dilatation sessions required was significantly less in the steroid group (6.1 sessions [95% confidence interval, CI 2.8-9.4] versus 12.5 [95% CI 7.1-17.9] sessions in the control group; P = 0.04). The perforation rate was similar in both groups. The minimum diameter of stenotic lumens was significantly greater in the treatment group than controls (11.0 mm versus 7.1 mm, respectively; P = 0.01). The perforation rate was not significantly different between the groups (1.0% versus 0.5% in the treatment and control group, respectively). Steroid injection was effective in cases of mucosal defects encompassing the entire esophageal circumference.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic endoscopic steroid injection appears to be a safe means of relieving the severity of esophageal stenoses following extensive ESD.

Oesophageal flap valvuloplasty and wrapping suturing prevent gastrooesophageal reflux disease in dogs after oesophageal anastomosis

AIM: To examine the efficiency of oesophageal flap valvuloplasty and wrapping suturing technique in decreasing the rate of postoperative gastrooesophageal reflux disease in a dog model.

METHODS: We operated on 10 dogs in this study. First, we resected a 5-cm portion of the distal oesophagus and then restored the continuity of the oesophageal and gastric walls by end-to-end anastomosis. A group of five dogs was subjected to the oesophageal flap valvuloplasty and wrapping suturing technique, whereas another group (control) of five dogs was subjected to the stapling technique after oesophagectomy. The symptom of gastrooesophageal reflux was recorded by 24-h pH oesophageal monitoring. Endoscopy and barium swallow examination were performed on all dogs. Anastomotic leakage was observed by X-ray imaging, whereas benign anastomotic stricture and mucosal damage were observed by endoscopy.

RESULTS: None of the 10 dogs experienced anastomotic leakage after oesophagectomy. Four dogs in the new technology group resumed regular feeding, whereas only two of the dogs in the control group tolerated solid food intake. pH monitoring demonstrated that 25% of the dogs in the experimental group exhibited reflux and that none had mucosal damage consistent with reflux. Conversely, both reflux and mucosal damage were observed in all dogs in the control group.

CONCLUSION: The oesophageal flap valvuloplasty and wrapping suturing technique can improve the postoperative quality of life through the long-term elimination of reflux oesophagitis and decreased stricture formation after primary oesophageal anastomosis.

Prevention of esophageal strictures after endoscopic submucosal dissection

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) have recently been accepted as less invasive methods for treating patients with early esophageal cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma and dysplasia of Barrett’s esophagus. However, the large defects in the esophageal mucosa often cause severe esophageal strictures, which dramatically reduce the patient’s quality of life. Although preventive endoscopic balloon dilatation can reduce dysphagia and the frequency of dilatation, other approaches are necessary to prevent esophageal strictures after ESD. This review describes several strategies for preventing esophageal strictures after ESD, with a particular focus on anti-inflammatory and tissue engineering approaches. The local injection of triamcinolone acetonide and other systemic steroid therapies are frequently used to prevent esophageal strictures after ESD. Tissue engineering approaches for preventing esophageal strictures have recently been applied in basic research studies. Scaffolds with temporary stents have been applied in five cases, and this technique has been shown to be safe and is anticipated to prevent esophageal strictures. Fabricated autologous oral mucosal epithelial cell sheets to cover the defective mucosa similarly to how commercially available skin products fabricated from epidermal cells are used for skin defects or in cases of intractable ulcers. Fabricated autologous oral-mucosal-epithelial cell sheets have already been shown to be safe.

[Management of caustic esophagitis in children]

In children, caustic ingestion is due to accidents at home and inadequate storage of caustic agents. In emergency, it is useful to remove the soiled clothes, rinse the affected area, and prevent vomiting and feeding. Caustic ingestion (pH<2 or>12) induces burns of the upper gastrointestinal tract requiring esophagogastro-duodenoscopy between H12 and H24. Strong alkalis cause necrosis with liquefaction of the esophagus, penetrating deeply with a high-risk of perforation. Management of these children requires a specialized care center with an intensive care unit, endoscopic equipment, and a surgical team. Esophageal stricture is the main complication; no prophylactic treatment (steroids) is effective. Strictures occur after the 3rd week, and barium swallow should be performed by the end of the 1st month. Stricture are often multiple, long, and tortuous; endoscopic dilatation is difficult with a high-rate of perforation and a low-rate of success. In situ application of mitomycin C or injection of triamcinolone could reduce the recurrence rate of stricture. In recalcitrant or recurrent strictures, it is recommended to perform an esophageal replacement using a colonic interposition or a gastric tube. Endoscopy should also be performed 15-20years after caustic ingestion to screen for early neoplastic lesions. Prevention is very important for avoiding caustic ingestions. Information and education should be given specifically to the parents of toddlers; caustic products should be stored out of reach of children and they should not be kept with food.

Biodegradable esophageal stent placement does not prevent high-grade stricture formation after circumferential mucosal resection in a porcine model

BACKGROUND

Advanced esophageal dysplasia and early cancers have been treated traditionally with esophagectomy. Endoscopic esophageal mucosectomy (EEM) offers less-invasive therapy, but high-degree stricture formation limits its applicability. We hypothesized that placement of a biodegradable stent (BD-stent) immediately after circumferential EEM would prevent stricturing.

METHODS

Ten pigs (five unstented controls, five BD-stent) were utilized. Under anesthesia, a flexible endoscope with a band ligator and snare was used to incise the mucosa approximately 20 cm proximal to the lower esophageal sphincter. A 10-cm, circumferential, mucosal segment was dissected and excised by using snare electrocautery. In the stented group, an 18-×120-mm, self-expanding, woven polydioxanone stent (ELLA-CS, Hradec-Kralove) was deployed. Weekly esophagograms evaluated for percent reduction in esophageal diameter, stricture length, and proximal esophageal dilation. Animals were euthanized when the stricture exceeded 80% and were unable to gain weight (despite high-calorie liquid diet) or at 14 weeks.

RESULTS

The control group rapidly developed esophageal strictures; no animal survived beyond the third week of evaluation. At 2 weeks post-EEM, the BD-stent group had a significant reduction in esophageal diameter (77.7 vs. 26.6%, p < 0.001) and degree of proximal dilation (175 vs. 131%, p = 0.04) compared with controls. Survival in the BD-stent group was significantly longer than in the control group (9.2 vs. 2.4 weeks, p = 0.01). However, all BD-stent animals ultimately developed clinically significant strictures (range, 4-14 weeks). Comparison between the maximum reduction in esophageal diameter and stricture length (immediately before euthanasia) demonstrated no differences between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Circumferential EEM results in severe stricture formation and clinical deterioration within 3 weeks. BD-stent placement significantly delays the time of clinical deterioration from 2.4 to 9.2 weeks, but does not affect the maximum reduction in esophageal diameter or proximal esophageal dilatation. The timing of stricture formation in the BD-stent group correlated with the loss radial force and stent disintegration.

[Prevention of restenosis with a new modified fully-covered retrievable esophageal stent]

OBJECTIVE

To observe and evaluate the effectiveness of a new modified fully-covered retrievable esophageal stent in preventing restenosis at the proximal end of the stent.

METHODS

From January 2008 to October 2011, 380 consecutive patients who underwent placement of a conventional stent or a new modified stent for benign or malignant dysphagia were divided into two groups: conventional stent group 193 patients (male 137, female 56) and modified stent group 187 patients (male 125, female 62). The granulation formation and restenosis rate one month after stenting were evaluated. Data such as patient demographics, outcomes and complications were collected. The results were statistically analyzed by Student t test, chi-squared test, Fisher's exact probability or rank sum test. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

All stents were successfully implanted. They were highly effective in palliating dysphagia. The dysphagia score decreased from 3 (1) to 0 (1) in conventional stent group (P < 0.01), and that from 4 (1) to 0 (1) in modified stent group (P < 0.01). The modified stent group were superior to the conventional stent group in severe granulation formation rate (0 vs 4.7% (9/193), P = 0.004) and restenosis rate (2.7% (5/187) vs 7.3% (14/193), P = 0.041) within one month after stenting, and the modified stent was easier to retrieve. Postoperative remission rate of dysphagia, and complications such as chest pain, bleeding, perforation, stent migration had no statistical differences between the two groups (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The new modified fully-covered retrievable esophageal stent can significantly reduce granulation formation at the proximal end of the stent. Using of this stent seems to be a better choice in treating patient of dysphagia, with lower restenosis rate and easier to retrieve.