Outcomes of EMR of defiant colorectal lesions directed to an endoscopy referral center

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection with Circumferential Mucosal Incision for Colorectal Neoplasms: Comparison with Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection and between Two Endoscopists with Different Experiences

Background/Aims

Endoscopic mucosal resection with circumferential mucosal incision (CMI-EMR) may offer benefits comparable to those of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), while requiring less technical proficiency than ESD.

Methods

We retrospectively compared the outcomes of CMI-EMR (n=34) and size-matched ESD (n=102), which were performed by a Korean endoscopist for colorectal epithelial lesions of 20–35 mm. Procedural parameters of CMI-EMRs performed by an American ESD novice (n=30) were compared with those performed by the Korean endoscopist.

Results

The lesion size was 22.3±3.9 mm and 22.9±2.4 mm in the CMI-EMR and size-matched ESD groups, respectively (p=0.730). The resection time was 12.7±7.0 minutes in the CMI-EMR group and 45.6±30.1 minutes in the ESD group (p<0.001). The en bloc resection rate was 94.1% in the CMI-EMR group and 100% in the ESD group (p=0.061). There were no differences in the en bloc resection and complication rates of CMI-EMRs between a Korean and an American endoscopist.

Conclusions

For the treatment of moderate-size colorectal lesions, CMI-EMR showed a trend toward lower en bloc resection rate, but required shorter procedure time than ESD. CMI-EMR outcomes were similar when performed by a Korean ESD expert and an American ESD novice.

Clip retention rates and rates of residual polyp at the base of retained clips on colorectal EMR sites

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Prophylactic endoscopic clipping may be effective in preventing delayed post-polypectomy hemorrhage after EMR of large colorectal lesions. The rate of retention of hemoclips on EMR sites has not been fully described. The aim of this study was to evaluate the adherence rates of hemoclips placed after EMR of large colorectal lesions.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of large colorectal polyps (≥20 mm) referred to Indiana University Hospital between June 2006 and August 2015. Sites were closed with a mean of 4 clips. Patients were followed up for 3 to 6 months after EMR with a second follow-up 1 year later. Biopsy specimens of EMR scars were examined at follow-up, including the tissue at the base of retained clips.

RESULTS

There were 479 EMR sites in 424 patients that had first follow-up at our center with high-quality photographs of the EMR sites taken immediately after clip placement and at follow-up. Of 1407 Boston Scientific Resolution clips placed, 59 (4.2%) were retained at follow-up. Of 532 Cook Instinct clips placed, 46 (8.6%) were retained at first follow-up (P = .0001). There was no difference in the follow-up interval for the 2 clips. No patient had residual polyp by biopsy at the base of a retained clip.

CONCLUSIONS

Clip retention at first follow-up at 3 to 6 months after EMR was twice as high for the Cook Instinct clip compared with Boston Resolution clip but retention rates were low for both clips. Residual polyp at the base of retained clips was not a significant clinical problem.

Management of early colonic neoplasia: where are we now and where are we heading?

There have been considerable advances in the endoscopic treatment of colorectal neoplasia. The development of endoscopic submucosal dissection and full thickness resection techniques is changing the way benign disease and early cancers are managed. This article reviews the evidence behind these new techniques and discusses where this field is likely to move in the future. Areas covered: A PubMed literature review of resection techniques for colonic neoplasia was performed. The clinical and cost effectiveness of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is examined. The development of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and knife assisted resection is described and issues around training reviewed. Efficacy is compared to both EMR and transanal endoscopic microsurgery. The future is considered, including full thickness resection techniques and robotic endoscopy. Expert commentary: The perceived barriers to ESD are falling, and views that such techniques are only possible in Japan are disappearing. The key barriers to uptake will be training, and the development of educational programmes should be seen as a priority. The debate between TEMS and ESD will continue, but ESD is more flexible and cheaper. This will become less significant as the number of endoscopists trained in ESD grows and some TEMS surgeons may shift across towards ESD.

A standardized imaging protocol is accurate in detecting recurrence after EMR

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

EMR of large laterally spreading lesions (LSL) in the colon is a safe and effective alternative to surgery. Post-EMR scar assessment currently involves taking biopsy specimens of the scar to detect residual or recurrent adenoma (RRA). The accuracy of endoscopic imaging of the post-EMR scar is unknown. We aimed to determine the accuracy of a standardized imaging protocol in post-EMR scar assessment.

METHODS

Prospective, single-center data from the Australian Colonic EMR study were analyzed. Consecutive patients undergoing first surveillance colonoscopy (SC1) after EMR of a large LSL were eligible. All scars were sequentially examined with high-definition white light (HD-WL) and narrow-band imaging (NBI) in a standardized fashion and then biopsies were performed. Endoscopic recurrence (recurrence at the post-EMR scar detected by systematic endoscopic assessment) was compared with the histologic findings.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-three post-EMR scars were included. Thirty of 183 (16.4%) were confirmed to have RRA histologically at SC1. Thirty-seven of 183 (20.2%) post-EMR scars demonstrated RRA endoscopically. The sensitivity and specificity of endoscopic RRA detection were 93.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 77.9%-99.2%) and 94.1% (95% CI, 89.1%-97.3%), respectively. The positive predictive value was 75.7% (95% CI, 58.8%-88.2%) and the negative predictive value was 98.6% (95% CI, 95.1%-99.8%). The diagnostic accuracy was 94.0%. Sensitivity was higher for the combination of HD-WL and NBI as opposed to HD-WL alone (93.3% vs 66.7%). The specificity was high for both HD-WL and HD-WL + NBI (96.1% and 94.1%, respectively). Flat morphology of RRA was better seen with NBI (P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic detection of RRA in the post-EMR scar is highly accurate using a standardized imaging protocol with HD-WL and NBI. This allows real-time, accurate detection of recurrence and its concurrent treatment, and raises the possibility that routine biopsy of the post-EMR scar may not be necessary.

Cold snare polypectomy for non-pedunculated colon polyps greater than 1 cm

Background and study aims Colonic polyps > 1 cm in size are commonly managed using hot polypectomy techniques. The most frequent adverse events (delayed bleeding, post-polypectomy syndrome, and perforation) are related to electrocautery-induced injury. We hypothesized that cold resection of large polyps may have similar efficacy and improved safety compared to hot polypectomy. Our aims were to evaluate efficacy and safety of piecemeal cold snare resection of colonic polyps > 1 cm. Patients and methods Patients undergoing lift and piecemeal cold snare polypectomy of non-pedunculated colon polyps > 1 cm from October 2013 to September 2015 were identified retrospectively. Efficacy was defined by the absence of residual adenomatous tissue at endoscopic follow-up. Adverse events (AEs), including post-procedural bleeding, bowel perforation, or post-procedural pain requiring hospitalization were assessed by chart review and telephone follow-up.  Results Seventy-three patients underwent piecemeal cold snare polypectomy for 94 colon polyps > 1 cm with 56 of 73 patients completing follow-up on 72 polyps. Residual or recurrent adenoma was found in 7 cases (9.7 %). Median polyp size was significantly greater in those with residual/recurrent adenoma (37.1 vs. 19.1 mm, P < .0001). There were no AEs among all 73 patients enrolled. Conclusions Piecemeal cold snare resection of colon polyps > 1 cm is feasible, safe and efficacious when compared to published hot polypectomy data. Additional observational and randomized comparative effectiveness studies are necessary to demonstrate comparable adenoma eradication and improved safety advantage over existing hot snare polypectomy techniques.

[Full thickness resection device (FTRD). Experience and outcome for benign neoplasms of the rectum and colon]

BACKGROUND

The diagnostic validity of a full-thickness resection is higher compared to endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic mucosal dissection (ESD). Whereas transanal endoscopic microsurgery techniques (TEM, TAMIS) are established therapeutic procedures in the rectum no established and safe minimally invasive or endoscopic procedure exists in the colon.

AIM

In this study the novel endoscopic full thickness resection device (FTRD, Ovesco, Germany) was investigated concerning success rates with histologically proven full thickness resections, R0 status as well as patient and device safety for the rectum and colon.

METHOD

In the period from November 2014 to June 2015 full thickness resections in the rectum and colon were performed with the FTRD in 20 patients. Data on technical success, R0 resection rate and histologically confirmed full thickness resections were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The following indications were treated in the rectum (n = 11) and colon (n = 9): T1 carcinoma (n = 6) and neuroendocrine tumors (n = 2), untreated and nonlifting adenomas (n = 3) and incomplete resection of adenomas with low and high grade dysplasia (n = 9). The technical success rate was 75 %, 3 technical failures made a conventional polypectomy necessary in 2 patients and in 1 patient an operative resection of the duplicated intestinal wall had to be performed. The median endoscopic follow-up time was 61.5 days (n = 10) and in 7 patients the clip had dislodged at the first follow-up. A thermal perforation in one case of conventional polypectomy gave rise to indications for a partial resection of the colon. In one patient the lesion in the cecum could be reached but not treated for technical reasons. The histological R0 rate was 80 %, whereas the full thickness resection rate was 60 % (85.7 % in the colon and 54.6 % in the rectum). In two patients with carcinoma and incomplete FTRD, surgical treatment was performed. The median size of the resection specimen was 5  cm(2) (range 1.6-12.9  cm(2)).

CONCLUSION

The results show that FTRD is a safe and effective instrument for use in the lower gastrointestinal tract. Limitations of the FTRD system concerning full thickness resection are scarring, fibrosis and thickness of the intestinal wall, especially in the lower rectum; therefore, it is suggested that a simulation with a tube similar in size to the FTRD should be performed during the screening colonoscopy in order to establish whether an endoscopic resection with FTRD is possible.

Endoscopic Management of Large (≥2 cm) Non-pedunculated Colorectal Polyps: Impact of Polyp Morphology on Outcomes

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Referrals for endoscopic management of large non-pedunculated (NP) colorectal polyps have increased as new techniques have emerged. The outcomes for referred large NP polyps based on the polyp morphology were investigated METHODS: A retrospective review of patients referred for large (≥20 mm) NP polyp management from January 2010 through June 2014 was completed. Polyp morphology was classified as either a NP polyp with depression (M1) or NP polyp with no depression (M0). Differences in treatment, histology, adverse events, outcomes at follow-up including residual disease, and need for surgical treatment were determined by morphology for all NP polyps ≥20 mm in size.

RESULTS

One-hundred and sixty-nine M1 and 136 M0 polyps ≥20 mm were removed endoscopically during the review period. Mean size was 31.9 ± 11.0 mm in M1, and 26.8 ± 9.5 mm in M0 group (p < 0.0001). En bloc resection was possible in 18.3 % of M1 and 30.9 % of M0 lesions (p = 0.011) with endoscopic submucosal dissection used in 13 and 2.2 % of polyps, respectively (p < 0.0001). Residual polyp was found in 26.5 % (27/102) of M1 and 13.6 % (12/88) of M0 patients at surveillance colonoscopy (p = 0.029). On multivariate analysis, piecemeal resection and M1 morphology showed significant association with residual polyp (OR 4.23, 95 % CI 1.23-14.59, p = 0.022, and OR 2.15, 95 % CI 1.004-4.62, p = 0.049, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Effective endoscopic management of large NP colorectal polyps, especially polyps without depression (M0), can be accomplished in the great majority of patients. Polyp morphology, particularly the presence or absence of depression, is a useful tool which influenced treatment, histology, and outcomes.

Extended endoscopic mucosal resection does not reduce recurrence compared with standard endoscopic mucosal resection of large laterally spreading colorectal lesions

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Effective interventions to prevent residual and/or recurrent adenoma (RRA) after EMR of large sessile and laterally spreading colorectal lesions (LSL) are yet to be determined. RRA may occur due to inconspicuous adenoma at the EMR margin. We aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of extended EMR (X-EMR) compared with standard EMR (S-EMR).

METHODS

A single-center post hoc analysis of LSL ≥20 mm referred for treatment was performed. S-EMR was the standard sequential inject and resect method including a 1-mm to 2-mm margin of normal mucosa around the lesion. With X-EMR, at least a 5-mm margin of normal mucosa was excised. Patient and lesion characteristics and procedural outcomes were recorded. The primary endpoint was RRA at first surveillance colonoscopy at 4 months.

RESULTS

Between January 2009 and May 2011, 471 lesions (mean size, 37.9 mm) in 424 patients were resected by S-EMR, and between January 2012 and December 2013, 448 lesions (mean size, 39.1 mm) in 396 patients were resected by X-EMR. Resection was successful in 92.3% and 92.6% of referred lesions in the S-EMR and X-EMR groups, respectively (P = .978). X-EMR was independently associated with a higher risk of intraprocedural bleeding (IPB) (odds ratio, 3.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0-5.0; P < .001) but not other adverse events. RRA was present in 39 of 333 patients (11.7%) and 30 of 296 patients (10.1%) in the S-EMR and X-EMR groups, respectively (P = .15). X-EMR was not related to recurrence (hazard ratio, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.5-1.3; P = .399).

CONCLUSIONS

X-EMR does not reduce RRA and increases the risk of IPB compared with S-EMR. Alternative methods for the prevention of RRA are required.

Surveillance after endoscopic and surgical resection of colorectal cancer

With the increase in colorectal cancer burden, surveillance following endoscopic and surgical resection is an essential issue. The aim of surveillance programs is improvement of patient survival by early detection of residual tumor tissue or local recurrence, metachronous colorectal tumors, and metastases. Appropriate surveillance should be determined according to this risk of factors. In current guidelines, only surveillance colonoscopy is recommended after endoscopic resection of polyps with high-grade dysplasia, whereas intensive, multimodality surveillance using colonoscopy, radiological imaging and tumor marker measurements is recommended following surgical resection of invasive colorectal cancer. Detailed recommendations, including the timing of surveillance, are described based on high-quality evidence. However, there are still many unresolved issues for which more high-quality evidence is required.

Endoscopic mucosal resection: learning curve for large nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasia

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Colorectal EMR for nonpolypoid neoplasia achieves better outcomes when performed by expert endoscopists. The time point at which the endoscopist achieves expert level remains to be defined. The objective of this study was to establish a learning curve of colorectal EMR for nonpolypoid neoplasia based on residual tissue on surveillance colonoscopy and adverse event rate.

METHODS

Five hundred seventy-eight consecutive patients underwent EMR of colorectal neoplasia by 1 of 3 primary endoscopists between December 2004 and September 2013 in a tertiary academic center. Primary analyses focused on the largest lesion for patients with more than 1 lesion (median age, 69 years; median polyp size, 30 mm; 51% en bloc resection). Data on surveillance colonoscopy were available for 74%. Learning curves were calculated for each of the 3 main outcome measurements: the presence of residual neoplasia on surveillance colonoscopy, endoscopic assessment of incomplete EMR, and the occurrence of an immediate bleeding adverse event.

RESULTS

Residual neoplasia on surveillance colonoscopy was present for 23.2% of patients, the rate of endoscopist-assessed incomplete EMR was 27.6%, and immediate bleeding adverse events occurred in 6.9% of patients. Although there was between-endoscopist variability, the overall rates of residual neoplasia and incomplete EMR decreased to below 20% to 25% after 100 EMRs; initial decreases in both rates were observed for earlier EMRs. Immediate bleeding adverse events occurred at a low frequency for each endoscopist across all EMRs. Perforation requiring surgical intervention occurred in 1 patient (0.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that an unexpectedly high number of 100 colorectal EMR procedures for large nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasia are required to achieve a plateau phase for crucial outcomes.

The potential impact of local excision for T1 colonic cancer in elderly and comorbid populations: a decision analysis

BACKGROUND

Population-based bowel cancer screening has resulted in increasing numbers of patients with T1 colonic cancer. The need for colectomy in this group is questioned due to the low risk of lymphatic spread and increased treatment morbidity, particularly for elderly, comorbid patients. This study examined the quality-of-life benefits and risks of endoscopic resection compared with results after colectomy, for low-risk and high-risk T1 colonic cancer.

METHODS

Decision analysis using a Markov simulation model was performed; patients were managed with either endoscopic resection (advanced therapeutic endoscopy) or colectomy. Lesions were considered high risk according to accepted national guidelines. Probabilities and utilities (perception of quality of life) were derived from published data. Hypothetical cohorts of 65- and 80-year-old, fit and unfit patients with low-risk or high-risk T1 colonic cancer were studied. The primary outcome was quality-adjusted life expectancy (QALE) in life-years (QALYs).

RESULTS

In low-risk T1 colonic neoplasia, endoscopic resection increases QALE by 0.09 QALYS for fit 65-year-olds and by 0.67 for unfit 80-year-olds. For high-risk T1 cancers, the QALE benefit for surgical resection is 0.24 QALYs for fit 65-year-olds and the endoscopic QALE benefit is 0.47 for unfit 80-year-olds. The model findings only favored surgery with high local recurrence rates and when quality of life under surveillance was perceived poorly.

CONCLUSIONS

Under broad assumptions, endoscopic resection is a reasonable treatment option for both low-risk and high-risk T1 colonic cancer, particularly in elderly, comorbid patients. Exploration of methods to facilitate endoscopic resection of T1 colonic neoplasia appears warranted.

Expert opinions and scientific evidence for colonoscopy key performance indicators

Colonoscopy is a widely performed procedure with procedural volumes increasing annually throughout the world. Many procedures are now performed as part of colorectal cancer screening programmes. Colonoscopy should be of high quality and measures of this quality should be evidence based. New UK key performance indicators and quality assurance standards have been developed by a working group with consensus agreement on each standard reached. This paper reviews the scientific basis for each of the quality measures published in the UK standards.

Evaluation and long-term outcomes of the different modalities used in colonic endoscopic mucosal resection

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) has been used in western countries to remove colonic polyps for at least the last two decades. Significant experience has been accumulated and the efficacy of the method has recently been evaluated in a large meta-analysis. A number of variations to modify the technique, including knife-assisted, cap-assisted, ligation devices, and underwater EMR, have been developed in an attempt to improve outcomes. However, to date there are only limited data comparing these techniques or demonstrating the superiority of any one of them. This article reviews the current evidence on the efficacy of each of these modified techniques.

Avulsion is superior to argon plasma coagulation for treatment of visible residual neoplasia during EMR of colorectal polyps (with videos)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

EMR is used widely for treatment of nonpedunculated colorectal adenomas ≥ 2 cm. Recurrence at the resection site occurs in 10% to 30% of cases.

METHODS

Records of consecutive patients referred for endoscopic resection over a 4-year period were reviewed retrospectively. In the first part of the study period, our routine practice was to use argon plasma coagulation (APC) to treat all visible residual neoplasia after exhaustive attempts at snare resection during EMR. In the second part of the study period, we changed our practice to use avulsion to treat all visible residual neoplasia after exhaustive attempts at snare resection during EMR. We analyzed the effect of this change in practice on recurrence rates after EMR.

RESULTS

Two hundred twenty-three resected lesions were analyzed. Fifty-nine (26%) were treated with en-bloc EMR, 55 (25%) by piecemeal EMR with complete snare removal of all visible neoplasia, 63 (28%) by piecemeal EMR with APC of visible residual neoplasia, and 46 (21%) by piecemeal EMR with avulsion of visible residual neoplasia. There was no significant difference in adverse event rates among the 4 groups. The recurrence rates on follow-up colonoscopy were 4.2%, 3.0%, 59.3%, and 10.3%, respectively. The recurrence rate for patients treated with avulsion was significantly lower than for those treated with APC (odds ratio, .079; P < .001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that use of avulsion instead of APC was a significant predictor of no recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

After exhaustive attempts at snare resection during EMR, avulsion is superior to APC for treatment of residual visible neoplasia. Compared with APC, avulsion significantly decreases the recurrence rate without significantly increasing the risk of the procedure.

Complications of endoscopic polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection in the colon

Endoscopic resection (ER), including endoscopic polypectomy (EP), endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) are used to remove superficial neoplasms from the colon. Snare resection is used for EP and EMR, whereas endoscopic knives are used to perform dissection in the submucosal space in ESD. 80-90% colonic polyps are <10 millimetres (mm) and are effectively managed by conventional EP. Increasingly cold snare polypectomy is preferred. Large laterally spreading lesions (LSLs) and sessile polyps ≥20 mm are primarily removed by EMR. ESD may be used when superficial invasive disease is suspected and for some LSLs, particularly non-granular subtypes. Resection of colonic lesions by ER is associated with a small but definite incidence of significant complications, most commonly bleeding and perforation. This review discusses complications of ER with a particular focus on their prevention, early recognition and management. In many cases, complications from all three procedures share similar mechanisms and management principles and these are described at the start of each section, followed by a description of specific aspects for individual procedures.

Endoscopic Approach for Superficial Colorectal Neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in males and the second in females, with an estimated 1.4 million cases and 693,900 deaths in 2012. Colonoscopy is the cornerstone for the detection and prevention of CRC. In addition, endoscopic treatment for CRC at an early stage can effectively improve patients' quality of life and cure rate.

SUMMARY

This review focuses on endoscopic approaches, including white light endoscopy, chromoendoscopy, magnifying endoscopy and therapeutic endoscopy, for the evaluation and treatment of superficial colorectal neoplasms.

KEY MESSAGE

Understanding the preoperative evaluation, indications and techniques of endoscopic mucosal resection/endoscopic submucosal dissection as well as postoperative surveillance for superficial colorectal neoplasms is critical for providing appropriate management to the patients.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Endoscopic therapy, a method preserving organ function and improving quality of life, is a widely applied microinvasive treatment for superficial colorectal neoplasms. This review describes the basics and developments of endoscopic approaches and may facilitate daily practice for superficial colorectal neoplasms.

Factors Associated With Recurrence of Advanced Colorectal Adenoma After Endoscopic Resection

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Studies have identified risk factors for recurrence of advanced colorectal adenoma (ACA) after polypectomy, but the relative importance and interaction of these risk factors, and their potential impact on surveillance recommendations, are unclear. We aimed to develop a model to identify ACA features associated with risk of recurrence after polypectomy.

METHODS

In a retrospective study, we collected data from 3360 patients who underwent colonoscopy with polypectomy at University of Foggia from 2004 through 2008 and identified 746 patients with 1017 ACAs. We performed recursive partitioning analysis to identify factors associated with recurrence of ACA within 3 years after polypectomy.

RESULTS

Median ACA size was 16 mm (range, 8-34 mm) and median number was 1.5 (range, 1-2). Pedunculated, sessile, and nonpolypoid lesions accounted for 41.3%, 39.4%, and 19.3% of ACAs detected, respectively. Factors independently associated with local recurrence of ACA and metachronous distant polyps within 3 years after polypectomy included size and number of ACAs and grade of dysplasia. The recurrence rate was 4.2% in patients with a single ACA ≤15 mm without high-grade dysplasia (HGD), 21.3% in patients with HGD ≤15 mm, ACA without HGD >15 mm, or multiple ACAs without HGD ≤15 mm, and 57.9% in patients with HGD >15 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective analysis of 746 patients with ACA who underwent polypectomy and surveillance colonoscopy within 3 years, the recurrence rate was highest in those with HGD ≥15 mm. These patients might benefit from more intensive surveillance, whereas patients with a single ACA without HGD ≤15 mm are at lower risk for and could be considered for longer follow-up intervals.

Outcome of EMR as an alternative to surgery in patients with complex colon polyps

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Patients with complex colon polyps were traditionally referred for surgery to avoid adverse events associated with endoscopic resection. Recent advances in endoscopic imaging as well as endoscopic hemostasis and clip closure allow for the use of EMR as an alternative to surgery for such lesions. To determine the outcome of treatment of complex colon polyps with EMR as an alternative to surgery, we conducted a retrospective observational study.

METHODS

Two hundred three patients with complex colon polyps were referred to an EMR center as an alternative to surgery. Patients underwent a protocol-driven EMR. The primary endpoint was the complete resection rate. Secondary endpoints were safety, residual adenoma rate, and incidence of missed synchronous polyps.

RESULTS

EMR was performed in 155 patients and was deferred in 48 patients who were referred to surgery. EMR specimens revealed benign polyps in 149 and cancer in 6 patients. EMR adverse events occurred in 7 patients, requiring hospitalization in 5 of them. None of the patients died as a result of their adverse events. Surveillance colonoscopy at 4 to 6 months after resection of a benign lesion in 137 patients revealed residual adenoma at the scar site in 6 patients and additional synchronous precancerous lesions in 117 patients that were not removed by the referring endoscopist. None underwent surgery for failure of EMR. The overall precancerous lesion burden was 2.83 per patient, the adenoma burden was 2.13 per patient, and the serrated polyp burden was .69 per patient.

CONCLUSIONS

EMR can be used instead of surgery for complex colon polyps in 75% of patients with few adverse events and few residual adenomas at resection sites. In addition, careful repeat examination of the entire colon for synchronous lesions overlooked by the referring endoscopist is required for most patients. (

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01827241.).

Prediction of Clinically Significant Bleeding Following Wide-Field Endoscopic Resection of Large Sessile and Laterally Spreading Colorectal Lesions: A Clinical Risk Score

OBJECTIVES

Clinically significant bleeding (CSPEB) is the most frequent adverse event following wide-field endoscopic mucosal resection (WF-EMR) of large sessile and laterally spreading colorectal lesions (LSL). There is limited knowledge regarding accurate prediction of CSPEB. We aimed to derive a score to predict the risk of CSPEB.

METHODS

Data on patient and lesion characteristics and outcomes from WF-EMRs of LSL ≥20 mm at 8 referral hospitals were analyzed. The cohort was divided at random into equal sized training and test groups. Independent predictors of CSPEB in the training cohort were identified by multiple logistic regression analysis and used to develop a risk score. The performance of this score was assessed in the independent test cohort.

RESULTS

Over 80 months to June 2015, 2,128 patients with 2,424 LSL were referred for WF-EMR. Two thousand and twelve patients were eligible for analysis. There were 135 cases of CSPEB (6.7%). In the training cohort of 1,006 patients, the independent predictors of CSPEB were lesion size >30 mm (odds ratio (OR) 2.5), proximal colonic location (OR 2.3), presence of a major comorbidity (OR 1.5), and epinephrine in injection solution (OR 0.57). The derived risk score comprised lesion size >30 mm (2 points), proximal colon (2 points), presence of major comorbidity (1 point), and absence of epinephrine use (1 point). The probabilities of CSPEB for scores of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and ≥5 in the training cohort were 1.5, 2.0, 5.6, 7.8, 9.1, and 17.5% and were 0.9, 6.7, 4.9, 6.2, 9.0, and 15.7% in the test cohort. The probabilities of CSPEB in those with low (score 0-1), medium (score 2-4), and elevated (score 5-6) risk levels were 1.7, 7.1, and 17.5% in the training cohort and 3.4, 6.2, and 15.7% in the test cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients at elevated risk of CSPEB can be identified using four readily available variables. This knowledge may improve the management of those undergoing WF-EMR and assist in designing studies evaluating CSPEB.

A Scoring System to Determine Risk of Delayed Bleeding After Endoscopic Mucosal Resection of Large Colorectal Lesions

BACKGROUND & AIMS

After endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of colorectal lesions, delayed bleeding is the most common serious complication, but there are no guidelines for its prevention. We aimed to identify risk factors associated with delayed bleeding that required medical attention after discharge until day 15 and develop a scoring system to identify patients at risk.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study of 1214 consecutive patients with nonpedunculated colorectal lesions 20 mm or larger treated by EMR (n = 1255) at 23 hospitals in Spain, from February 2013 through February 2015. Patients were examined 15 days after the procedure, and medical data were collected. We used the data to create a delayed bleeding scoring system, and assigned a weight to each risk factor based on the β parameter from multivariate logistic regression analysis. Patients were classified as being at low, average, or high risk for delayed bleeding.

RESULTS

Delayed bleeding occurred in 46 cases (3.7%, 95% confidence interval, 2.7%-4.9%). In multivariate analysis, factors associated with delayed bleeding included age ≥75 years (odds ratio [OR], 2.36; P < .01), American Society of Anesthesiologist classification scores of III or IV (OR, 1.90; P ≤ .05), aspirin use during EMR (OR, 3.16; P < .05), right-sided lesions (OR, 4.86; P < .01), lesion size ≥40 mm (OR, 1.91; P ≤ .05), and a mucosal gap not closed by hemoclips (OR, 3.63; P ≤ .01). We developed a risk scoring system based on these 6 variables that assigned patients to the low-risk (score, 0-3), average-risk (score, 4-7), or high-risk (score, 8-10) categories with a receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.77 (95% confidence interval, 0.70-0.83). In these groups, the probabilities of delayed bleeding were 0.6%, 5.5%, and 40%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of delayed bleeding after EMR of large colorectal lesions is 3.7%. We developed a risk scoring system based on 6 factors that determined the risk for delayed bleeding (receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.77). The factors most strongly associated with delayed bleeding were right-sided lesions, aspirin use, and mucosal defects not closed by hemoclips. Patients considered to be high risk (score, 8-10) had a 40% probability of delayed bleeding.

Endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection of large colonic polyps

Almost all large and complex colorectal polyps can now be resected endoscopically. Piecemeal endoscopic mucosal resection (PEMR) is an established technique with fairly low complication risk and good short-term and medium-term outcomes. Several modifications to the basic injection and snare technique have been developed contributing to safer and more complete resections. Delayed bleeding requiring reintervention is the most troublesome complication in 2-7% of patients, particularly in those with comorbidities and large, right-sided polyps. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has become popular in Japan and has theoretical advantages over PEMR in providing a complete, en bloc excision for accurate histological staging and reduced local recurrence. These advantages come at the cost of a more complex, expensive and time-consuming procedure with a higher risk of perforation, particularly early in the procedure learning curve. These factors have contributed to the slow adoption of ESD in the West and the challenge to develop new devices and endoscopic platforms that will make ESD easier and safer. Currently, ESD indications are limited to large rectal lesions, in which procedural complications are easily managed, and for colorectal polyps with a high risk of containing tiny foci of early submucosally invasive cancer, whereby ESD may be curative compared with PEMR.

Development and validation of a risk score for advanced colorectal adenoma recurrence after endoscopic resection

AIM: To develop and validate a risk score for advanced colorectal adenoma (ACA) recurrence after endoscopic polypectomy.

METHODS: Out of 3360 patients who underwent colon polypectomy at University of Foggia between 2004 and 2008, data of 843 patients with 1155 ACAs was retrospectively reviewed. Surveillance intervals were scheduled by guidelines at 3 years and primary endpoint was considered 3-year ACA recurrence. Baseline clinical parameters and the main features of ACAs were entered into a Cox regression analysis and variables with P < 0.05 in the univariate analysis were then tested as candidate variables into a stepwise Cox regression model (conditional backward selection). The regression coefficients of the Cox regression model were multiplied by 2 and rounded in order to obtain easy to use point numbers facilitating the calculation of the score. To avoid overoptimistic results due to model fitting and evaluation in the same dataset, we performed an internal 10-fold cross-validation by means of bootstrap sampling.

RESULTS: Median lesion size was 16 mm (12-23) while median number of adenomas was 2.5 (1-3), whereof the number of ACAs was 1.5 (1-2). At 3 years after polypectomy, recurrence was observed in 229 ACAs (19.8%), of which 157 (13.5%) were metachronous neoplasms and 72 (6.2%) local recurrences. Multivariate analysis, after exclusion of the variable “type of resection” due to its collinearity with other predictive factors, confirmed lesion size, number of ACAs and grade of dysplasia as significantly associated to the primary outcome. The score was then built by multiplying the regression coefficients times 2 and the cut-off point 5 was selected by means of a Receiver Operating Characteristic curve analysis. In particular, 248 patients with 365 ACAs fell in the higher-risk group (score ≥ 5) where 3-year recurrence was detected in 174 ACAs (47.6%) whereas the remaining 595 patients with 690 ACAs were included in the low-risk group (score < 5) where 3-year recurrence rate was 7.9% (55/690 ACAs). Area under the curve of the model was 0.81 (0.72-0.86) with an overall classification error rate of 0.09. The model was finally validated by means of 10-fold cross validation.

CONCLUSION: Our study provides support for the use of a novel risk score as a clinical predictor of ACA recurrence after colon polypectomy.

Endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection for colorectal lesions: A systematic review

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for the treatment of colorectal lesions.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted from January 2000 to May 2015. The main outcomes were: recurrence after "en bloc" and "piecemeal" resection; procedure related adverse events; the EMR endoscopic success rate and the completely eradicated resection rate (R0) after ESD.

RESULTS

A total of 66 studies were included in the analysis. The total number of lesions was 17950 (EMR: 11.873; ESD: 6077). Recurrence rate was higher in the EMR than ESD group (765/7303l vs. 50/3910 OR 8.19, 95% CI 6.2-10.9 p<0.0001). EMR-en bloc resection was achieved in 6793/10803 lesions (62.8%) while ESD-en bloc resection was obtained in 5500/6077 lesions (90.5%) (OR 0.18, p<0.0001, 95% CI 0.16-0.2). Perforation occurred more frequently in ESD than in EMR group (p<0.0001, OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.15-0.24).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic resection of large colorectal lesions is safe and effective. Compared with EMR, ESD results in higher "en bloc" resection rate and lower local recurrence rate, however ESD has high procedure-related complication rates.

Large Sessile Serrated Polyps Can Be Safely and Effectively Removed by Endoscopic Mucosal Resection

BACKGROUND & AIMS

As many as 50% of large sessile serrated adenomas/polyps (SSPs) are removed incompletely, which is significant because SSPs have been implicated in the development of interval cancers. It is unclear if endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is an optimal method for removal of SSPs. We assessed the efficacy and safety of removal of SSPs 10 mm and larger using a standardized inject-and-cut EMR technique.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of colonoscopy data, collected over 7 years (2007-2013) at 2 centers, from 199 patients with proximal colon SSPs 10 mm and larger (251 polyps) removed by EMR by 4 endoscopists. The primary outcome measure was local recurrence. The secondary outcome measure was safety.

RESULTS

At the index colonoscopy, patients had a median of 1 serrated lesion (range, 1-12) and 1 nonserrated neoplastic lesion (range, 0-15). The mean SSP size was 15.9 ± 5.3 mm; most were superficially elevated (84.5%) and located in the ascending colon (51%), and 3 SSPs (1.2%) had dysplasia. Surveillance colonoscopies were performed on 138 patients (69.3%) over a mean follow-up period of 25.5 ± 17.4 months. Of these patients, 5 had local recurrences (3.6%; 95% confidence interval, 0.5%-6.7%), detected after 17.8 ± 15.4 months, with a median size of 4 mm. No patients developed postprocedural bleeding, perforation, or advanced colon cancer, or had a death related to the index colorectal lesion during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Inject-and-cut EMR is a safe and effective technique for the resection of SSPs. Less than 5% of patients have a local recurrence, which is usually small and can be treated endoscopically.

What is the best therapeutic strategy for colonoscopy of colorectal neoplasia? Future perspectives from the East

Development and improvement of endoscopic techniques and devices have changed the treatment of colorectal tumors over the last decade. For the treatment of diminutive polyps, the cold snare technique of the West is becoming a promising treatment in the East because of its short procedure time and low rate of delayed bleeding by eliminating the delayed effect of electrocautery. Rather than using piecemeal endoscopic mucosal resection or surgical resection for the treatment of large superficial tumors, the technique of the East of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) achieves a high success rate of en bloc R0 resection, enabling detailed pathological evaluation with less invasive treatment. This procedure should also be useful in the West where large colorectal tumors are more frequent than in the East. Regarding outcomes, however, in the literature, the definition of 'curative resection' remains somewhat inconsistent and long-term outcomes of patients with deep submucosal and/or lymphovascular invasion in the en bloc specimen have not yet been determined. Large prospective, as well as retrospective, studies of these patients are warranted. When colorectal ESD is difficult because of size or location, the pocket-creation method and/or double-balloon-assisted technique may be useful. In the East, high-quality magnified chromoendoscopy is widely available, and endoscopists try to identify focal submucosal invasion. In the West, a systematic evaluation of surveillance for the prevention of colorectal cancer has been done and is highly refined. The East and West have much to learn from each other.

Endoscopic resection of colorectal lesions: The narrowing divide between East and West

Colonic polypectomy is an effective way of reducing colon cancer mortality. Multiple techniques now exist for the resection of polyps, and the endoscopist must decide on the appropriate resection approach for individual patients and lesions. This decision should maximize efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness and provide optimal oncological outcomes while minimizing unnecessary surgical treatment. Advances in endoscopic imaging technology are improving the accuracy of endoscopic diagnosis and allowing more precise risk assessment of colonic lesions. Resection technique can be tailored to the endoscopic findings. Diminutive (≤5 mm) and small polyps (≤9 mm) are best resected primarily by snare techniques. Cold snare polypectomy has proven safety, but efficacy and technique require further study. There is variation in techniques used for polyps 6-20 mm in size and incomplete resection rates for conventional polypectomy may be considerable. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is well established, safe and effective for lesions without submucosal invasion (SMI); however, recurrence is a key limitation. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is well established in the East; however, it is resource intensive and its role in lesions with a low risk of SMI is questionable. ESD in the West remains incompletely defined and is associated with high adverse event rates, but it is becoming increasingly available and successful as experience grows. Emerging full-thickness resection technologies are still in their infancy and remain experimental as a result of the absence of reliable closure devices and techniques. Patient-focused outcomes should guide technique selection.

Endoscopic mucosal resection of colorectal adenomas > 20 mm: Risk factors for recurrence

AIM: To evaluate risk factors for local recurrence after endoscopic mucosal resection of colorectal adenomas > 20 mm.

METHODS: Retrospective data analysis of 216 endoscopic mucosal resections for colorectal adenomas > 20 mm in 179 patients (40.3% female; median age 68 years; range 35-91 years). All patients had at least 1 follow-up endoscopy with a minimum control interval of 2 mo (mean follow-up 6 mo/2.0-43.4 mo). Possible factors associated with local recurrence were analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS: Median size of the lesions was 30 mm (20-70 mm), 69.0% were localized in the right-sided (cecum, ascending and transverse) colon. Most of the lesions (85.6%) showed a non-pedunculated morphology and the majority of resections was in piecemeal technique (78.7%). Histology showed carcinoma or high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia in 51/216 (23.6%) lesions including 4 low risk carcinomas (pT1a, L0, V0, R0 - G1/G2). Histologically proven recurrence was observed in 33/216 patients (15.3%). Patient age > 65 years, polyp size > 30 mm, non-pedunculated morphology, localization in the right-sided colon, piecemeal resection and tubular-villous histology were found as associated factors in univariate analysis. On multivariate analysis, only localization in the right-sided colon (HR = 6.842/95%CI: 1.540-30.394; P = 0.011), tubular-villous histology (HR = 3.713/95%CI: 1.617-8.528; P = 0.002) and polyp size > 30 mm (HR = 2.563/95%CI: 1.179-5.570; P = 0.017) were significantly associated risk factors for adenoma recurrence.

CONCLUSION: Meticulous endoscopic follow-up is warranted after endoscopic mucosal resection of adenomas localized in the right-sided colon larger than > 30 mm, with tubular-villous histology.

The influence of clips on scars after EMR: clip artifact

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Laterally spreading lesions ≥20 mm are conventionally removed by EMR. Endoscopic clips are increasingly used to mitigate the risk of delayed bleeding. Clips may alter the endoscopic appearance of the scar after EMR, interfering with the assessment of adenoma recurrence. We aimed to evaluate this.

METHODS

Prospective, single-center data from the Australian Colonic Endoscopic resection study (January 2011-May 2015) were analyzed. Patients undergoing EMR of laterally spreading lesions with endoscopic clips used at the EMR defect were eligible. Data included patient and lesion characteristics and procedural, clinical, and histologic outcomes.

RESULTS

Clips were used in 111 of 885 lesions (12.5%). A total of 62 of 111 clipped lesions had standardized, high-definition, white light, and narrow-band images of the scars after EMR at first surveillance colonoscopy, and the patients were enrolled. Analysis of the images showed 4 situations: a bland scar (N = 27), residual adenoma (N = 6), mucosal elevation with normal pit pattern (N = 14), or granulation tissue related to the presence of residual clips (N = 15). The latter 2 entities were termed post-EMR scar clip artifact (ESCA). Overall, 29 of 62 previously clipped EMR sites (46.8%) had ESCA at a median follow-up of 5.2 months. Twenty scars had residual clips, and 15 of 20 (75.0%) showed ESCA (P = .002). Lesions clipped for prophylaxis of bleeding were more likely to show ESCA than those clipped for deep mural injury or intraprocedural bleeding (65.5% vs 41.7%; P = .006). ESCA was associated with female sex (P = .010) and greater age (P = .011).

CONCLUSIONS

ESCA is characterized by a nodular elevation of the mucosa with a normal pit pattern and can occur with or without residual clips. Prophylactic clip closure and the presence of residual clips are associated with ESCA. (

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01368289.).

The Endoscopic Treatment of Iatrogenic Gastrointestinal Perforation

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic gastrointestinal perforation is a life-threatening complication that arises very rarely in routine endoscopic procedures, with an incidence of 0.03-0.8%. It is more likely in highly complex and invasive therapeutic interventions. In certain situations, endoscopic closure of the perforation and treatment with antibiotics can obviate the need for emergency surgical repair.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent articles retrieved by a selective literature search in PubMed and on a relevant position paper.

RESULTS

Existing clinical studies of treatment for iatrogenic gastrointestinal perforation are mainly retrospective and uncontrolled. No randomized and controlled trials have been performed to date. If the perforation is discovered soon after it arises, endoscopic treatment can be considered. Gastrointestinal perforations that are less than 30 mm in size can be closed with a clip. In the esophagus, expanding metal stents can be used as well. Clip application is successful in 80-100% of cases of gastrointestinal perforation, and the perforation remains permanently closed in 60-100% of cases. Reports on the endoscopic treatment of esophageal perforation show mixed results, with closure rates of roughly 90% and clinical success rates of roughly 80%. If endoscopic treatment is not possible, timely laparoscopic or open surgical repair is needed.

CONCLUSION

The endoscopic treatment of iatrogenic perforations is safe and reliable. Success depends on early detection, adequate endoscopic closure with properly mastered technique, and the early initiation of concomitant antibiotic treatment, which must be continued for a full course. Most patients who are treated in this way do not need emergency surgery.

British Society of Gastroenterology/Association of Coloproctologists of Great Britain and Ireland guidelines for the management of large non-pedunculated colorectal polyps

These guidelines provide an evidence-based framework for the management of patients with large non-pedunculated colorectal polyps (LNPCPs), in addition to identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) that permit the audit of quality outcomes. These are areas not previously covered by British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) Guidelines.A National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) compliant BSG guideline development process was used throughout and the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) tool was used to structure the guideline development process. A systematic review of literature was conducted for English language articles up to May 2014 concerning the assessment and management of LNPCPs. Quality of evaluated studies was assessed using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) Methodology Checklist System. Proposed recommendation statements were evaluated by each member of the Guideline Development Group (GDG) on a scale from 1 (strongly agree) to 5 (strongly disagree) with >80% agreement required for consensus to be reached. Where consensus was not reached a modified Delphi process was used to re-evaluate and modify proposed statements until consensus was reached or the statement discarded. A round table meeting was subsequently held to finalise recommendations and to evaluate the strength of evidence discussed. The GRADE tool was used to assess the strength of evidence and strength of recommendation for finalised statements.KPIs, a training framework and potential research questions for the management of LNPCPs were also developed. It is hoped that these guidelines will improve the assessment and management of LNPCPs.

Clip closure of defect after endoscopic resection in patients with larger colorectal tumors decreased the adverse events

BACKGROUND

Clip closure of large colorectal mucosal defects may reduce the rate of adverse events in a cost-effective manner.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the adverse events and outcomes of clip closure of defects after endoscopic resection in patients with large colorectal tumors.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, controlled study.

SETTING

Single tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS AND INTERVENTIONS

Patients with lesions measuring 1 to 4 cm who were scheduled for endoscopic resection between March 2012 and December 2014 were randomly assigned to a clip-closure group and a no-closure group. In the clip-closure group, the defect of the resection site was completely closed with an endoclip. In the no-closure group, the defect was left open. The following primary outcome measures were assessed: delayed postoperative bleeding, postpolypectomy coagulation syndrome, perforation, and abdominal pain. Secondary outcome measures of length of hospital stay, time required for procedure, and patient's satisfaction were also assessed.

RESULTS

Patients and lesions had similar characteristics across both groups. For patients who underwent clip closure (n = 174), the rates of delayed postoperative bleeding (1.1% [2/174]) and postpolypectomy coagulation syndrome (0.6% [1/174]) were lower than those in the no-closure group (6.9% [12/174], P = .01 and 4.6% [8/174], P = .03). Two patients experienced perforation, 1 in each group. In the clip-closure group, 4 patients reported abdominal pain as opposed to 26 in the no-closure group (2.8% vs 16.7%, P < .01). The procedure took longer in the closure group (38.1 minutes vs 30.9 minutes, P = .04). The length of hospitalization was shorter in the closure group (3.1 days vs 4.7 days, P = .03). Total medical expense was similar between the 2 groups. Patients who underwent closure reported greater satisfaction.

LIMITATION

This was a single-center analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Clip closure of endoscopic resection defects in patients with large colorectal tumors decreased the rate of procedure-related adverse events and did not increase the cost of hospitalization.

For “difficult” benign colorectal lesions referred to surgical resection a second opinion by an experienced endoscopist is mandatory: A single centre experience

AIM: To assess how many patients with benign “difficult” colorectal lesions (DCRLs) referred to surgical resection, may be treated with endoscopic resection (ER) rather than surgical resection.

METHODS: The prospectively collected colonoscopy database of our Endoscopic Unit was reviewed to identify all consecutive patients who, between July 2011 and August 2013, underwent an endoscopic re-evaluation before surgical resection due to the presence of DCRLs with a histological confirmation of benignancy on forceps biopsy. ER was attempted when the lesion did not have definite features of deeply invasive cancer. The “nonlifting sign” excluded ER only in naive lesions without a prior attempted resection. Lesions were classified, using the Kyoto-Paris classification for mucosal neoplasia. For sessile and non-polypoid lesions the “inject and cut” resection technique was used. Pedunculated and semi-pedunculated lesions were transected at the stalk just below the polyps head and before or after resection, metal clips or a loop were applied on the stalk to prevent bleeding. The lesions were histologically classified according to the Vienna criteria and for the pedunculated lesions the Haggitt classification was used.

RESULTS: Eighty-two patients (42 females, mean age 62 years) with 82 lesions (mean size 37 mm) were included in the study. Sixty-nine (84%) lesions were endoscopically resected, while 13 underwent surgical resection since ER was deemed unsuitable. On histology, cancer was found in 21/69 lesions (14 intra-mucosal, 7 sub-mucosal) and was associated with the size (P < 0.001) and with type 0-IIa +Is (P = 0.011) and 0-IIa + IIc (P < 0.001) lesions. All patients with sub-mucosal cancer, underwent surgical resection. Complications occurred in 11/69 patients (7 bleedings, 2 transmural burn syndromes, 2 perforations), all managed endoscopically or conservatively, and were associated with presence of invasive cancer (P = 0.021). During follow-up recurrence/residual tissue was found in 14/51 sessile or non-polypoid lesions (13 treated endoscopically, 1 underwent surgical resection) and was associated with type 0-IIa + Is lesions (P = 0.001), piecemeal resections (P = 0.01) and with lesion size (P = 0.004). Overall, 74% of patients avoided surgery. Surgical resection was significantly associated with type 0-IIa + Is (P = 0.01) and 0-IIa + IIc (P = 0.001) lesions, with sub-mucosal invasion on histology (P < 0.001), with presence of the “nonlifting sign” (P < 0.001), and related to the dimension of the lesions (P = 0.001). In the logistic regression analysis, the only independent predictor for surgical resection was the dimension of the lesions (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION: Before submitting patients to surgical resection for a benign DCRL, a second opinion by an experienced endoscopist is mandatory to avoid unnecessary surgery.

Frequent co-occurrence of high-grade dysplasia in large flat colonic polyps (>20 mm) and synchronous polyps

Background

Large colonic polyps are associated with advanced dysplasia, but prevalence and characteristics of synchronous polyps in patients with large flat colonic polyps are poorly investigated. This study aims to characterize clinicopathological features of large flat colonic polyps and their impact on occurrence and characteristics of synchronous polyps.

Methods

A total of 802 patients that underwent endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of flat colonic polyps >20 mm from 2003 to 2014 in an academic endoscopy unit were retrospectively analyzed for size, location and histology of large polyps and synchronous polyps.

Results

Average size of large polyps was 34.1 mm (range 20–150 mm, standard deviation 16.1 mm). Histology included 52.5 % adenomas with low-grade dysplasia (LGD), 26.7 % with high-grade dysplasia (HGD), 9.6 % serrated polyps and 11.2 % adenocarcinomas. The majority of large polyps were localized in the proximal colon (61 %). 72.2 % of adenocarcinomas were found in the distal colon, while 80.5 % of all serrated polyps were detected in the proximal colon. Increase in polyp size, advanced age and location in the distal colon were associated with presence of HGD/adenocarcinoma in large polyps, as identified by multivariate analysis. Synchronous polyps were detected in 67.2 % of patients undergoing complete colonoscopy during EMR. Presence of HGD/adenocarcinoma in the large polyp, localization of any synchronous polyp in the rectosigmoid colon and occurrence of multiple synchronous polyps were associated with presence of HGD/adenocarcinoma in synchronous polyps.

Conclusions

Synchronous polyps are frequently found in patients with large flat colonic polyps. The prevalence of synchronous polyps with high grade dysplasia is highest in patients with large flat polyps containing HGD/adenocarcinoma.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12876-015-0312-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Second-Look Colonoscopies and the Impact on Capacity in FIT-Based Colorectal Cancer Screening

OBJECTIVES

Fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) and colonoscopy are tandem procedures in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. A positive FIT predicts advanced neoplasia (AN) that requires endoscopic detection and removal. En bloc or piecemeal resection of AN is associated with a significant rate of residual or recurrent neoplasia. Second-look colonoscopies are indicated to assess completeness of removal of AN. These colonoscopies can make a substantial demand on colonoscopy capacity and health-care system. This study is the first to evaluate the demand and risk factors for second-look colonoscopy in FIT CRC screening.

METHODS

All colonoscopies after a positive FIT, in subjects aged 50-74 years approached for 3 rounds of FIT screening, were prospectively registered. Second-look colonoscopies were defined as any colonoscopy within 1 year following a colonoscopy after positive FIT.

RESULTS

Out of 1,215 FIT-positive screenees undergoing colonoscopy, 105 (8.6%) patients underwent a second-look colonoscopy, of whom 30 (2.5%) underwent more than one colonoscopy (range 2-9), leading to a total of 149 (12.3%) additional colonoscopies. Main reasons for second-look colonoscopies were assessment of complete AN removal (41.9%) and need for additional polypectomy (34.3%). Risk factors were advanced adenomas and poor bowel preparation (P<0.001). High fecal hemoglobin concentration was the only predictor of a second-look colonoscopy before index colonoscopy (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Second-look colonoscopies have substantial impact on colonoscopy resources, increasing the demand with 12%. The main reasons for these second-look colonoscopies were previous incomplete polypectomy and control of completeness of removal of neoplastic lesions. A high fecal hemoglobin concentration as measured by FIT can help to identify patients at risk of a second-look colonoscopy.

An adequate level of training for technically competent colonoscopic polypectomy

GOALS

The purpose of this study is to investigate the learning curve for colonoscopic polypectomy (CP) by trainee endoscopists.

BACKGROUND

The amount of training required to achieve technical competence for CP is uncertain.

STUDY

The CP times and en bloc resection rates of three experienced colonoscopists were obtained from 240 procedures. These data were compared to those of three gastroenterology trainees who performed 750 CP procedures. A trainee procedure was deemed to be a success if en bloc resection was obtained and the CP time was within twice the median CP time of the experienced colonoscopists. Trainees were deemed to be technically competent when they achieved a CP success rate of greater than or equal to 80%.

RESULTS

The median CP times and en bloc resection rates for the experienced colonoscopists and trainees were 79 s (range, 20-301 s) and 99.6% (239/240), and 118 s (range, 36-1051 s) and 95.6% (717/750), respectively. The trainee success rate of CP was 72% (540/750). The success rate of the procedure was associated with increased trainee experience (p = 0.003) and reached 80% after 250 procedures. The CP time significantly decreased (p < 0.001) and en bloc resection rate significantly increased (p = 0.011) as trainee experience accumulated. The level of experience was an independent predictor for successful CP.

CONCLUSIONS

The achievement of technical competence with CP was associated with an accumulation of approximately 250 procedures. These findings suggest that dedicated education and training programs for CP are warranted.

JGES guidelines for colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection/endoscopic mucosal resection

Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has become common in recent years. Suitable lesions for endoscopic treatment include not only early colorectal carcinomas but also many types of precarcinomatous adenomas. It is important to establish practical guidelines in which the preoperative diagnosis of colorectal neoplasia and the selection of endoscopic treatment procedures are properly outlined, and to ensure that the actual endoscopic treatment is useful and safe in general hospitals when carried out in accordance with the guidelines. In cooperation with the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, the Japanese Society of Coloproctology, and the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology, the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society has recently compiled a set of colorectal ESD/endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) guidelines using evidence-based methods. The guidelines focus on the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and caveat before, during, and after ESD/EMR and, in this regard, exclude the specific procedures, types and proper use of instruments, devices, and drugs. Although eight areas, ranging from indication to pathology, were originally planned for inclusion in these guidelines, evidence was scarce in each area. Therefore, grades of recommendation were determined largely through expert consensus in these areas.

Management of polypectomy complications

The 2 most significant complications of colonoscopy with polypectomy are bleeding and perforation. Incidence rates for bleeding (0.1%-0.6%) and perforation (0.7%-0.9%) are generally low. Recognition of pertinent risk factors helps to prevent these complications, which can be grouped into patient-related, polyp-related, and technique/device-related factors. Endoscopists should be equipped to manage bleeding and perforation. Currently available devices and techniques are reviewed to achieve hemostasis and close colon perforations.

Prophylactic endoscopic coagulation to prevent bleeding after wide-field endoscopic mucosal resection of large sessile colon polyps

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Clinically significant postendoscopic mucosal resection bleeding (CSPEB) is the most frequent significant complication of wide-field endoscopic mucosal resection (WF-EMR) of advanced mucosal neoplasia (sessile or laterally spreading colorectal lesions > 20 mm). CSPEB requires resource-intensive management and there is no strategy for preventing it. We investigated whether prophylactic endoscopic coagulation (PEC) reduces the incidence of CSPEB.

METHODS

We performed a prospective randomized controlled trial of 347 patients (mean age, 67.1 y; 55.3% with proximal colonic lesions) undergoing WF-EMR for advanced mucosal neoplasia at 3 Australian tertiary referral centers. Patients were assigned randomly (1:1) to groups receiving PEC (n = 172) or no additional therapy (n = 175, controls). PEC was performed with coagulating forceps, applying low-power coagulation to nonbleeding vessels in the resection defect. CSPEB was defined as bleeding requiring admission to the hospital. The primary end point was the proportion of CSPEB.

RESULTS

Patients in each group were similar at baseline. CSPEB occurred in 9 patients receiving PEC (5.2%) and 14 controls (8.0%; P = .30). CSPEB was associated significantly with proximal colonic location on multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 3.08; P = .03). Compared with the proximal colon, there was a significantly greater number (3.8 vs 2.1; P = .002) and mean size (0.5-1 vs 0.3-0.5 mm; P = .04) of visible vessels in the distal colon.

CONCLUSIONS

PEC does not significantly decrease the incidence of CSPEB after WF-EMR. There were significantly more and larger vessels in the WF-EMR mucosal defect of distal colonic lesions, yet CSPEB was more frequent with proximal colonic lesions. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01368731.

Use of a double-channel gastroscope reduces procedural time in large left-sided colonic endoscopic mucosal resections

Background/Aims

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of large colorectal lesions is associated with increased procedural time. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of double-channel gastroscope (DCG) use on the procedural time of EMRs in the rectosigmoid area.

Methods

All EMRs for sessile or flat rectosigmoid lesions ≥2 cm performed between July 2011 and September 2012 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

There were 55 lesions ≥2 cm in the rectosigmoid area in 55 patients, of which 26 were removed by EMR using a DCG (DC group) and 29 by using an ordinary colonoscope or gastroscope (OS group). The mean size of the removed polyps, morphology, adverse effects, and other parameters were similar between the two groups. The mean procedural time was significantly lower in the DC group than in the OS group (24.4±18.3 minutes vs. 36.3±24.4 minutes, p=0.015). Moreover, in a subgroup of patients with polyps >40 mm, the statistical difference in the mean procedural time between the DC and OS groups was even more pronounced (33±21 minutes vs. 58.7±20.6 minutes, p=0.004).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the use of a DCG in the resection of large nonpedunculated rectosigmoid lesions significantly reduces the procedural time.

Endoscopic and surgical treatment of malignant colorectal polyps: a population-based comparative study

BACKGROUND

Long-term population-based data comparing endoscopic therapy (ET) and surgery for management of malignant colorectal polyps (MCPs) are limited.

OBJECTIVE

To compare colorectal cancer (CRC)-specific survival with ET and surgery.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Population-based study.

PATIENTS

Patients with stage 0 and stage 1 MCPs were identified from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database (1998-2009). Demographic characteristics, tumor size, location, treatment modality, and survival were compared. Propensity-score matching and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to evaluate the association between treatment and CRC-specific survival.

INTERVENTIONS

ET and surgery.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Mid-term (2.5 years) and long-term (5 years) CRC-free survival rates and independent predictors of CRC-specific mortality.

RESULTS

Of 10,403 patients with MCPs, 2688 (26%) underwent ET and 7715 (74%) underwent surgery. Patients undergoing ET were more likely to be older white men with stage 0 disease. Surgical patients had more right-sided lesions, larger MCPs, and stage 1 disease. There was no difference in the 2.5-year and 5-year CRC-free survival rates between the 2 groups in stage 0 disease. Surgical resection led to higher 2.5-year (97.8% vs 93.2%; P < .001) and 5-year (96.6% vs 89.8%; P < .001) CRC-free survival in stage 1 disease. These results were confirmed by propensity-score matching. ET was a significant predictor for CRC-specific mortality in stage 1 disease (hazard ratio 2.40; 95% confidence interval, 1.75-3.29; P < .001).

LIMITATIONS

Comorbidity index not available, selection bias.

CONCLUSIONS

ET and surgery had comparable mid- and long-term CRC-free survival rates in stage 0 disease. Surgical resection is the recommended treatment modality for MCPs with submucosal invasion.

Improving complete EMR of colorectal neoplasia: a randomized trial comparing snares and injectate in the resection of large sessile colon polyps

BACKGROUND

There are few randomized studies examining efficacy of snares and agents in EMR.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the use of a combined needle and snare unit with injectate versus a spiral wire and injectate (primary); saline solution versus hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (secondary).

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, factorial, single center.

SETTING

Tertiary-care academic medical center.

PATIENTS

A total of 140 patients with large (>15 mm), sessile, colorectal polyps.

INTERVENTIONS

Polyps randomized to either 1 of 2 snare types and 1 of 2 injectates.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Primary-the Sydney resection quotient (SRQ), defined as the size of the polyp divided by the number of pieces resected and the amount of tissue per snare attempt. Secondary-procedure time, adverse events, residual neoplasia at follow-up.

RESULTS

The SRQ was higher with the combined unit (median 13.8 mm vs 7.1 mm; P = .019); additionally, procedure time was less (median 6 vs 11 minutes; P < .001). Resection was considered complete after the EMR in 62% (42/68) with the combined needle and snare unit versus 51% (37/72; P = .22) with the spiral wire. Rates of adverse events were similar. Residual neoplasia was found at follow-up in 22% (10/46) with the combined needle and snare unit versus 21% (10/48; P = .89) with the spiral wire. There was no evidence of differences in outcomes by lifting agent.

LIMITATIONS

The SRQ is only a surrogate marker.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence that the integrated needle-snare may be superior to the snare alone for the removal of large, flat polyps. Additionally, the type of injectate appears to have no impact on outcome.

Novel risk stratification for recurrence after endoscopic resection of advanced colorectal adenoma

BACKGROUND

Advanced colorectal adenoma (ACA) refers to adenomas with the following predictive characteristics: ≥1 cm in diameter, and/or villous component, and/or high-grade dysplasia. ACA has high risk of transforming to colorectal cancer, and the recurrence rate is relatively high.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the outcomes of patients with ACA undergoing endoscopic resection and to identify risk factors for local recurrence and development of metachronous advanced neoplasm.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary care medical center.

PATIENTS

From 2005 to 2011, the records of 3625 patients who underwent colonoscopic polypectomy at Seoul National University Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with synchronous colorectal cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, previous colorectal resection, loss to follow-up, and incomplete resection were excluded.

INTERVENTION

Endoscopic resection for ACA.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Local recurrence and metachronous advanced neoplasm.

RESULTS

The study included 917 patients with 1206 ACAs. The median duration of follow-up was 28.5 months (interquartile range, 12.8-51.7). Independent risk factors for local recurrence included ACA with 2 or more predictive characteristics (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-5.48; P = .027) and piecemeal resection (adjusted HR, 6.96; 95% CI, 1.58-30.71; P = .010). Independent risk factors for metachronous advanced neoplasm were male gender (adjusted HR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.02-2.65; P = .041), ≥3 adenomas (adjusted HR, 2.56; 95% CI, 1.72-3.82; P < .001), and ≥3 ACAs (adjusted HR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.01-2.06; P = .045).

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design.

CONCLUSION

ACAs with 2 or more predictive characteristics recurred locally at a higher rate than ACAs with 1 predictive characteristic. These results suggest that patients who are found to have ACAs with 2 or more predictive factors at index colonoscopy are at higher risk for local recurrence, and follow-up colonoscopy should be performed sooner.