Application of metal hemoclips for closure of endoscopic mucosal resection-induced ulcers of the stomach to prevent delayed bleeding

Endoscopic hand suturing has the potential to reduce bleeding after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients on antithrombotic agents: Multicenter phase II study

OBJECTIVES

The risk of postoperative bleeding is high after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in patients continuously treated with antithrombotic agents (ATAs). The effectiveness of endoscopic hand suturing (EHS) on bleeding after gastric ESD was investigated in patients at high risk of delayed bleeding.

METHODS

Patients with neoplasms ≤2 cm who underwent gastric ESD and continued to receive perioperative ATAs were enrolled in this multicenter phase II study. The mucosal defect was closed with EHS after removing the lesion. Postoperative bleeding rate was assessed for 3-4 postoperative weeks as a primary outcome measure. The technical success of EHS and adverse events were also assessed. Based on expected and threshold postoperative bleeding rates of 10% and 25%, respectively, we aimed to include 48 patients in the study.

RESULTS

A total of 49 patients were enrolled in the study, and 43 patients were finally registered as the per-protocol set. The postoperative bleeding rate was 7.0% (3/43 patients; the upper limit of one-sided 95% confidence interval [CI], 17.1% and 97.5% CI, 19.1%). The upper limits of the CI were below the threshold value (25%), and the postoperative bleeding rate was below the expected value (10%). The technical EHS success rate, closure maintenance rate on postoperative day 3, and postoperative subclinical bleeding rate were 100%, 83%, and 2%, respectively. No severe adverse events related to EHS were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic hand suturing may prevent postoperative bleeding in patients undergoing gastric ESD while being treated continuously with ATAs (UMIN000038140).

A novel twin-grasper assisted mucosal inverted closure technique for closing large artificial gastric mucosal defects

BACKGROUND

Large artificial gastric mucosal defects are always left unclosed for natural healing due to technique difficulties in closure. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a new Twin-grasper Assisted Mucosal Inverted Closure (TAMIC) technique in closing large artificial gastric mucosal defects.

METHODS

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was performed in fifteen pigs to create large gastric mucosal defects. The mucosal defects were then either left unclosed or closed with metallic clips using TAMIC technique. Successful closure rate and the wound outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

Two mucosal defects with size of about 4.0 cm were left unclosed and healed two months after surgery. Thirteen large gastric mucosal defects were created by ESD with a medium size of 5.9 cm and were successfully closed with the TAMIC technique (100%), even in a mucosal defect with a width up to 8.5 cm. The mean closure time was 59.0 min. Wounds in eight stomachs remained completely closed 1 week after surgery (61.5%), while closure in the other five stomachs had partial wound dehiscence (38.5%). Four weeks later, all the closed defects healed well and 61.5% of the wounds still remained completely closed during healing. There was no delayed perforation or bleeding after surgery. In addition, there was less granulation in the submucosal layer of the closed wound sites than those under natural healing.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that TAMIC is feasible and safe in closing large artificial gastric mucosal defects and could improve mucosal recovery compared to natural healing process.

Suturing techniques with endoscopic clips and special devices after endoscopic resection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection is an established method for complete resection of large and early gastrointestinal tumors. However, methods to reduce bleeding, perforation, and other adverse events after endoscopic resection (ER) have not yet been defined. Mucosal defect closure is often performed endoscopically with a clip. Recently, reopenable clips and large-teeth clips have also been developed. The over-the-scope clip enables complete defect closure by withdrawing the endoscope once and attaching the clip. Other methods involve attaching the clip-line or a ring with an anchor to appose the edges of the mucosal defect, followed by the use of an additional clip for defect closure. Since clips are limited by their grasping force and size, other methods, such as endoloop closure, endoscopic ligation with O-ring closure, and the reopenable clip over-the-line method, have been developed. In recent years, techniques often utilized for full-thickness ER of submucosal tumors have been widely used in full-thickness defect closure. Specialized devices and techniques for defect closure have also been developed, including the curved needle and line, stitches, and an endoscopic tack and suture device. These clips and suture devices are applied for defect closure in emergency endoscopy, accidental perforations, and acute and chronic fistulas. Although endoscopic defect closure with clips has a high success rate, endoscopists need to simplify and promote endoscopic closure techniques to prevent adverse events after ER.

Clinical and technical outcomes of endoscopic closure of postendoscopic submucosal dissection defects: Literature review over one decade

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), which enables curative en bloc resection of early gastrointestinal neoplasms, has been an attractive minimally invasive surgery during the past two decades. Large post-ESD defects must be carefully managed to prevent adverse events (AEs). The major AEs comprise delayed bleeding (DB) and delayed perforation (DP), and overall AEs comprise DB plus DP. This review aimed to clarify the clinical efficacy and technical outcomes of endoscopic prophylactic closure for post-ESD defects. We identified studies involving ≥10 patients up to March 2022 in which endoscopic closure was applied for gastric, duodenal, and colorectal post-ESD defects. In the stomach, total rates of overall AEs and DB were significantly lower in the closure than non-closure group. In the duodenum, total rates of overall AEs, DB, and DP were significantly lower in the closure group. In the colorectum, total rates of overall AEs and DB were significantly lower in the closure group. Closure techniques, categorized into three groups (clip-based techniques, mechanical clipping, and surgical stitch-based techniques), were illustrated. Endoscopic closure demonstrated a certain ability to reduce DB after gastric, duodenal, and colorectal ESD as well as DP after duodenal ESD. Considering closure-associated costs, the indications and limitations of closure techniques should be further investigated.

Reopenable clip-over-the-line method for closing large mucosal defects following gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection: Prospective feasibility study

OBJECTIVES

Large mucosal defects following gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) cause postoperative bleeding. To address this limitation and ensure closure of large mucosal defects, we developed the reopenable clip-over-the-line method (ROLM) using a reopenable clip and nylon line. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of the ROLM for closure of large mucosal defects following gastric ESD in a prospective, consecutive series of cases.

METHODS

We performed the ROLM on 50 consecutive patients with gastric mucosal defects at the Ise Red Cross Hospital and Mie Prefectural Shima Hospital. The time to complete the ROLM, numbers of clips and lines required, size of defect, and closure success rate were measured, and postoperative adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS

In all, 50 lesions were included in this study period between July 2021 and March 2022. The success rates of defect closure and defect closure without submucosal dead space of the ROLM were both 100% (50/50), with a median ROLM time of 30 (range, 14-35) min and a median resected specimen major axis of 45 (range, 31-73) mm. The median number of reopenable clips used was 31 (range, 10-93). Following gastric ESD, two cases of post-ESD bleeding were observed during the follow-up periods.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that ROLM is a feasible strategy for complete closure of mucosal defects post-ESD without submucosal dead space. Future comparative studies with post-ESD bleeding rate as the main outcome are desirable to evaluate the efficacy of ROLM.

Efficacy of endoscopic ligation with O-ring closure for prevention of bleeding after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection under antithrombotic therapy: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

We examined the efficacy of a novel endoscopic ligation technique with O-ring closure (E-LOC) to prevent bleeding after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) under antithrombotic therapy.

METHODS

This single-center prospective study involved consecutive patients who were taking antithrombotic agents and underwent gastric ESD. E-LOC was performed by anchoring the nylon loop with hemoclips on both defect edges and/or the exposed muscle layer, and using O-ring band ligation around these deployed clips. The primary outcome was post-ESD bleeding rate. Secondary outcomes were complete closure rate, procedure time, sustained closure rate, and complications.

RESULTS

48 patients were finally analyzed. The post-ESD bleeding rate was 0 %, the complete closure rate was 97.9 %, and the mean closure time was 29.9 minutes. The sustained closure rate was 95.8 % at postoperative day 2-3 and 33.3 % at postoperative day 10-11. No complications occurred.

CONCLUSION

E-LOC may be an effective option for closing mucosal defects after gastric ESD under antithrombotic therapy. However, the preventive effect on post-ESD bleeding should be further investigated in high risk groups.

Endoscopic Delivery of Polymers Reduces Delayed Bleeding after Gastric Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

New endoscopic approaches for the prevention of delayed bleeding (DB) after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) have been reported in recent years, and endoscopic delivery of biodegradable polymers for iatrogenic ulcer hemostasis and coverage has emerged as one of the most promising techniques for post-ESD management. However, the comparative efficacy of these techniques remains uncertain. We performed a systematic search of multiple databases up to May 2022 to identify studies reporting DB rates as outcomes in patients undergoing gastric ESD who were treated with subsequent endoscopic management, including endoscopic closure (clip-based methods and suturing), PGA sheet tissue shielding, and hemostatic powder/gel spray (including polymeric sealants and other adhesives). The risk ratios (RRs) of delayed bleeding in treatment groups and control groups were pooled, and the Bayesian framework was used to perform a network meta-analysis (NMA). Among these studies, 16 head-to-head comparisons that covered 2742 lesions were included in the NMA. Tissue shielding using PGA sheets significantly reduced the risk of DB by nearly two thirds in high-risk patients, while hemostatic spray systems, primarily polymer-based, reduced DB in low-risk patients nine-fold. Researchers should recognize the essential role of polymers in the management of ESD-induced ulcers, and develop and validate clinical application strategies for promising materials.

A narrative review of postoperative bleeding in patients with gastric cancer treated with endoscopic submucosal dissection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is now considered a standard treatment for selected patients with early gastric cancer. Compared with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), ESD provides a higher complete resection rate (R0), and therefore, a lower local recurrence rate. However, ESD is a more time-consuming procedure, creating a wider and deeper ulcer floor which may cause complications. Post-ESD bleeding is one of them. Although most post-ESD bleedings can be controlled by endoscopic hemostasis at the time of operation, some bleeding after ESD may result in serious conditions such as hemorrhagic shock. Even with preventive methods such as ulcer closure, the application of fibrin glue and polyglycolic acid shielding, acid secretion inhibitors and hemostasis on second-look endoscopy, our experiences told us that post-ESD bleeding cannot be entirely avoidable, especially for patients with big size ulcer bed, anticoagulants/antithrombosis and chronic kidney diseases. The present review first defined post-ESD bleeding, then the incidence, the risk factors, such as the location of operative lesion, the size and depth, chronic kidney diseases, the impacts of anticoagulant and antithrombotic agents. We finally reviewed the managements of post-ESD bleeding, including approaches of coagulating potential bleeding spots during the procedure, lesion closure, lesion shielding and the application of gastric acid secretion inhibitors.

What's New with Endoscopic Treatments for Early Gastric Cancer in the "Post-ESD Era"?

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic treatments for gastric cancers have still been progressing even after the great success of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD).

SUMMARY

In further advancements of ESD, safe and less-invasive procedures are challenged by managing postoperative bleeding, one of the major adverse events in ESD. Covering the mucosal defect after removal of lesions appears reasonable and effective for preventing delayed bleeding from the post-ESD ulcers. Shielding with biodegradable sheets is attempted on clinical trials, which show equivocal results. Although suturing of the mucosal rims is technically challenging, pilot studies demonstrate favorable outcomes for avoiding post-ESD bleeding even in cases at high risk. In cases after noncurative resection of ESD, the selection of patients who truly require additional gastrectomy with lymph node dissection is important to provide necessary surgery. Risk stratification of lymph node metastases and surgery has been developed, which offers tailor-made management to each patient considering the risks and benefits. In surgery, function-preserving gastrectomy to minimize the resection area in both lymphadenectomy and the primary site is clinically introduced. The sentinel node navigation surgery is promising to realize the minimally invasive gastrectomy, and it should strongly fit ESD as well as laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery or endoscopic full-thickness resection, although nonexposure approaches are desirable. Key Message: Development for less-invasive managements on gastric cancer will be continued in step with the advancement of endoscopic treatments.

Endoscopic hand suturing for mucosal defect closure after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection may reduce the risk of postoperative bleeding in patients receiving antithrombotic therapy

OBJECTIVES

Endoscopic hand suturing (EHS) is expected to decrease the risk of post-endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) bleeding by closing mucosal defects. We investigated the efficacy of EHS after gastric ESD in patients with antithrombotic agents.

METHODS

In this prospective single-arm trial, patients taking antithrombotic agents for cardiovascular disease, arrhythmia, cerebrovascular disease and/or peripheral arterial disease and having <3-cm gastric neoplasms were recruited. The mucosal defects after ESD were closed by EHS in which the needle was delivered through an overtube, and the mucosal rim of the defect was continuously sutured in a linear fashion by manipulating the needle grasped with the needle holder, followed by cutting the remnant suture and retrieval of the needle. The primary endpoint was the incidence of postoperative bleeding within 4 weeks after ESD.

RESULTS

Twenty-two lesions in 20 patients (continuing antiplatelet agents in 11, anticoagulant agents in eight, both in one) underwent ESD followed by EHS. All defects (median size, 30 mm; range, 12-51 mm) were completely closed by EHS and remained closed on postoperative day 3. The median number of stitches was six (range, 4-8) and median suturing time was 36 (range, 24-60) min. There were no adverse events during/after EHS or postoperative bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative bleeding was not observed in patients taking antithrombotic agents without perioperative cessation. EHS appears to be useful for prevention of post-gastric ESD bleeding in high-risk patients. (Clinical registration number: UMIN000024184).

Risk Factors for Bleeding After Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Gastric Cancer in Elderly Patients Older Than 80 Years in Japan

INTRODUCTION

As the aging of people in a society advances, the number of elderly patients older than 80 years in Japan with gastric cancer continues to increase. Although delayed ulcer bleeding is a major adverse event after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), little is known about characteristic risk factors for bleeding in elderly patients undergoing ESD. This study aimed to evaluate risk factors for delayed bleeding after ESD for gastric cancer in elderly patients older than 80 years.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the incidence of delayed bleeding after ESD in 10,320 patients with early-stage gastric cancer resected by ESD between November 2013 and January 2016 at 33 Japanese institutions and investigated risk factors for delayed bleeding in elderly patients older than 80 years.

RESULTS

The incidence of delayed bleeding in elderly patients older than 80 years was 5.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.6%-6.9%, 95/1,675), which was significantly higher than that in nonelderly (older than 20 years and younger than 80 years) patients (4.5%, 4.1%-5.0%, 393/8,645). Predictive factors for ESD-associated bleeding differed between nonelderly and elderly patients. On multivariate analysis of predictive factors at the time of treatment, risk factors in elderly patients were hemodialysis (odds ratio: 4.591, 95% CI: 2.056-10.248, P < 0.001) and warfarin use (odds ratio: 4.783, 95% CI: 1.689-13.540, P = 0.003).

DISCUSSION

This multicenter study found that the incidence of delayed bleeding after ESD in Japanese patients older than 80 years was high, especially in patients receiving hemodialysis and taking warfarin. Management of ESD to prevent delayed bleeding requires particular care in patients older than 80 years.

Endoloop closure following gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection to prevent delayed bleeding in patients receiving antithrombotic therapy

OBJECTIVES

Given the high risk of bleeding in post-endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) patients receiving antithrombotic therapy, a new effective method is needed to prevent delayed bleeding among such patients. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of endoloop closure, using an endoloop and clips, after gastric ESD to prevent bleeding among patients receiving antithrombotic therapy.

METHODS

This retrospective study enrolled patients taking antithrombotic agents who underwent ESD for early gastric cancer between March 2016 and January 2019. Patients were classified into two groups: the endoloop closure group and the control group (no prophylactic treatment). We compared the rates of post-endoscopic submucosal dissection bleeding between the two groups.

RESULTS

Overall, 178 patients were included, with 37 patients in the endoloop closure group and 141 patients in the control group. The rate of post-endoscopic submucosal dissection bleeding was in general lower in the endoloop closure group than in the control group; however, the difference was not statistically significant (8% vs. 23%, p = 0.06). Among patients with a resected specimen size <40 mm and those using multiple antithrombotic agents, the endoloop closure group showed a lower rate of post-endoscopic submucosal dissection bleeding (0% vs. 16%, p = 0.03 and 10% vs. 70%, p = 0.02, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Closure using an endoloop and endoclips after gastric ESD might prevent post-procedure bleeding in patients receiving antithrombotic therapy, particularly in those patients with a resected specimen <40 mm and those receiving multiple antithrombotic agents.

Endoscopic Closure Utilizing Endoloop and Endoclips After Gastric Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Patients on Antithrombotic Therapy

OBJECTIVES

Antithrombotic therapy is a well-known independent risk factor for bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of early gastric cancer (EGC). A novel method of ulcer base closure using an endoloop and endoclips has been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of endoscopic closure using an endoloop and endoclips in preventing post-ESD bleeding in patients undergoing gastric ESD on antithrombotic therapy.

METHODS

This was a single center, retrospective study. Patients on antithrombotic therapy who underwent gastric ESD were divided into two groups, the closure group and the non-closure group. We analyzed procedural outcomes, post-ESD bleeding rate and factors associated with post-ESD bleeding.

RESULTS

Among 400 ESDs with EGCs in 311 patients, 131 ESDs in 110 patients were in the closure group, and 269 ESDs in 217 patients were in the non-closure group (16 patients were overlapped in both groups). Post-ESD bleeding rate was 11.5% (15/131) in the closure group, and 11.9% (32/269) in the non-closure group (p = 0.89). Total sustained closure rate during second look endoscopy was 47.8% (33/69). Post-ESD bleeding rate tended to be lower in the closure group than in the non-closure group for lesions located in the greater curvature (3.6% vs. 11.1%, p = 0.11). In addition, sustained closure rate was significantly higher in the greater curvature than in the lesser curvature (72.0% vs. 34.1%, p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed resection size > 40 mm and heparin bridge were the independent risk factor for post-ESD bleeding.

CONCLUSION

Ulcer base closure using endoloop and endoclips did not prevent post-ESD bleeding in patients on antithrombotic therapy.

Prevention and Management of Complications and Education in Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is considered superior to endoscopic mucosal resection as an endoscopic resection because of its higher en bloc resection rate, but it is more difficult to perform. As ESD techniques have become more common, and the range of treatment by ESD has expanded, the number of possible complications has also increased, and endoscopists need to manage them. In this report, we will review the management of critical complications, such as hemorrhage, perforation, and stenosis, and we will also discuss educational methods for acquiring and improving ESD skills.

Cutting-Edge Technologies for Gastrointestinal Therapeutic Endoscopy

With advancements in the development of flexible endoscopes and endoscopic devices and the increased demand for minimally invasive treatments, the indications of therapeutic endoscopy have been expanded. Methods of endoscopic treatment used for tissue removal, hemostasis, and dilatation are as follows. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is considered the gold standard curative method for removal of gastrointestinal node-negative neoplasms, regardless of their size or the presence of ulcer formation. Laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS), which incorporates ESD, was introduced for removal of lesions in deeper layers. Another technique is endoscopic full-thickness resection, which is challenging without the assistance of laparoscopy. In terms of hemostasis, management of iatrogenic bleeding after endoscopic treatment is an important issue. Shielding methods and suturing techniques have been introduced for large mucosal defects after ESD, and their efficacy has been investigated clinically. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a new alternative surgical approach for minimally invasive treatment of esophageal achalasia. Furthermore, endoscopic fundoplication after POEM was devised to prevent post-POEM gastroesophageal reflux disease. Many endoscopic treatments, including ESD, LECS, and POEM, have been introduced in Japan. With the aging of the population, more attention will be directed toward therapeutic endoscopy for elderly patients, because it is less invasive. Development of endoscopic treatments with expanded indications is expected.

Prediction model of bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection for early gastric cancer: BEST-J score

OBJECTIVE

Bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer (EGC) is a frequent adverse event after ESD. We aimed to develop and externally validate a clinically useful prediction model (BEST-J score: Bleeding after ESD Trend from Japan) for bleeding after ESD for EGC.

DESIGN

This retrospective study enrolled patients who underwent ESD for EGC. Patients in the derivation cohort (n=8291) were recruited from 25 institutions, and patients in the external validation cohort (n=2029) were recruited from eight institutions in other areas. In the derivation cohort, weighted points were assigned to predictors of bleeding determined in the multivariate logistic regression analysis and a prediction model was established. External validation of the model was conducted to analyse discrimination and calibration.

RESULTS

A prediction model comprised 10 variables (warfarin, direct oral anticoagulant, chronic kidney disease with haemodialysis, P2Y12 receptor antagonist, aspirin, cilostazol, tumour size >30 mm, lower-third in tumour location, presence of multiple tumours and interruption of each kind of antithrombotic agents). The rates of bleeding after ESD at low-risk (0 to 1 points), intermediate-risk (2 points), high-risk (3 to 4 points) and very high-risk (≥5 points) were 2.8%, 6.1%, 11.4% and 29.7%, respectively. In the external validation cohort, the model showed moderately good discrimination, with a c-statistic of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.64 to 0.76), and good calibration (calibration-in-the-large, 0.05; calibration slope, 1.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In this nationwide multicentre study, we derived and externally validated a prediction model for bleeding after ESD. This model may be a good clinical decision-making support tool for ESD in patients with EGC.

Innovative therapeutic endoscopy in the upper gastrointestinal tract: Review of Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopic Society Core Sessions

Workshops on "Innovative Therapeutic Endoscopy" for upper gastrointestinal tract diseases were held four times as the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopic Society (JGES) Core Sessions at the 93rd to 96th Biannual Meetings of the JGES. A total of 48 research presentations (including two invited lectures) were reported, and various discussions were held on these topics. When the research presentations were categorized according to the therapeutic procedure, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was the most frequent with 28 presentations (58.3%), followed by laparoscopy endoscopy cooperative surgery (LECS) with six presentations (12.5%). When the research presentations were classified by the target organ of the therapeutic procedures, the duodenum was the most frequent with 26 presentations (54.1%), followed by the stomach with 13 presentations (27.1%). The most important issue was the establishment of a safe and reliable endoscopic resection method for duodenal lesions. Issues related to gastric ESD were establishing an efficient traction method and a method to prevent post-ESD bleeding in high-risk patients. Other important issues were establishment of an efficient traction method and methods of preventing delayed bleeding in high-risk patients who undergo gastric ESD, expansion of indications for minimally invasive treatment using LECS for gastric cancer, the development of endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) for gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs), and improvement of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for esophageal achalasia and per-oral endoscopic tumor resection (POET) for esophageal SMTs. Through the JGES Core Sessions, it is expected that the minimally invasive treatments using endoscopes developed in Japan will be further advanced.

Endoscopic suturing promotes healing of mucosal defects after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection: endoscopic and histologic analyses in in vivo porcine models (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic suturing of mucosal defects after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is expected to prevent postoperative adverse events. We aimed to endoscopically and histologically evaluate the healing process of post-ESD mucosal defects closed with endoscopic hand suturing (EHS) in in vivo porcine models.

METHODS

Twelve mucosal defects (2 cm in size) were created in 2 pigs (6 defects per pig). Initially, 2 defects were created: one was closed with EHS (sutured group) and the other was kept open (control group). On postoperative days (PODs) 7 and 14, 2 additional defects were created in each session, and they were treated in the same manner as in the initial procedure. On POD 21, the entire stomach, with the 6 lesion sites, was extracted for histologic evaluation after endoscopic observation.

RESULTS

Endoscopically, all sutured sites remained closed in all sessions (PODs 7, 14, and 21). Histologically, on POD 14, the epithelium and muscularis mucosae were appropriately connected. The mucosae were covered with the epithelium without inversion of the mucosal edge in the sutured group, whereas the ulcer bed was exposed in the control group. Furthermore, the degree of neovascularity and fibroblasts in the submucosa was smaller in the sutured group than that in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that endoscopic suturing promotes healing of post-ESD mucosal defects histologically in in vivo porcine models. Thus, endoscopic mucosal closure after ESD might be clinically useful for the prevention of delayed perforation/bleeding if secure suturing is performed endoscopically.

Endoscopic hand-suturing is feasible, safe, and may reduce bleeding risk after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection: a multicenter pilot study (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic hand-suturing (EHS) provides secure intraluminal mucosal closure and should decrease the risk of adverse events after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). We prospectively investigated the feasibility and safety of EHS after gastric ESD, particularly for preventing post-ESD bleeding.

METHODS

Patients scheduled for gastric ESD at 3 institutions were prospectively recruited. Just after ESD, the mucosal defect was closed by EHS. The primary outcome was endoscopic assessment of adequately sustained closure of the defect on postoperative day 3. Endoscopy was performed to assess maintenance of the closure for the primary outcome. During postoperative weeks 3 to 4, patients were interviewed as outpatients about any occurrence of delayed bleeding.

RESULTS

Data from 30 patients (15 each who did or did not take antithrombotic agents) were analyzed. Mucosal closure by EHS was completed in 29 of 30 cases (97%) and was well maintained on postoperative day 3 in 25 cases (84%). Emergency endoscopy was required for major postoperative bleeding in 3 cases (10%), including 1 in which suturing had been incomplete. Excluding 1 patient with a remnant stomach, the other 24 with sustained closure had no bleeding, regardless of whether they did or did not take antithrombotic agents (0/11 and 0/13, respectively). No serious adverse events occurred during EHS.

CONCLUSIONS

Results show that EHS is feasible and safe with favorable outcomes. Provided that mucosal suturing is successfully completed and sustained, post-ESD bleeding can be decreased even in patients undergoing antithrombotic therapy. (Clinical trial registration number: UMIN 000033988.).

The effect of prophylactic hemoclips on the risk of delayed post-endoscopic mucosal resection bleed for upper and lower gastrointestinal lesions: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a minimally invasive procedure used for the treatment of lesions in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. There is increased usage of hemoclips during EMR for the prevention of delayed bleeding. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hemoclips in the prevention of delayed bleeding after EMR of upper and lower GI tract lesions.

Method

This is a retrospective cohort study using the Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC) EMR registry. Lesions in upper and lower GI tracts that underwent EMR between January 2012 and December 2015 were analyzed. Rates of delayed bleeding were compared between the hemoclip and no-hemoclip groups. Analysis was stratified by upper GI and lower GI lesions. Lower GI group was further stratified by right and left colon. We examined the relationship between clip use and several clinically-relevant variables among the patients who exhibited delayed bleeding. Furthermore, we explored possible procedure-level and endoscopist-level characteristics that may be associated with clip usage.

Results

A total of 18 out of 657 lesions (2.7%) resulted in delayed bleeding: 7 (1.1%) in hemoclip group and 11 (1.7%) in no-hemoclip group (p = 0.204). There was no evidence that clip use moderated the effects of the lesion size (p = 0.954) or lesion location (p = 0.997) on the likelihood of delayed bleed. In the lower GI subgroup, clip application did not alter the effect of polyp location (right versus left colon) on the likelihood of delayed bleed (p = 0.951). Logistic regression analyses showed that the clip use did not modify the likelihood of delayed bleeding as related to the following variables: use of aspirin/NSAIDs/anti-coagulants/anti-platelets, pathologic diagnoses (including different types of colon polypoid lesions), ablation, piecemeal resection. The total number of clips used was 901 at a minimum additional cost of $173,893.

Conclusion

Prophylactic hemoclip application did not reduce delayed post-EMR bleed for upper and lower GI lesions in this retrospective study performed in a large-scale community practice setting. Routine prophylactic hemoclip application during EMR may lead to significantly higher healthcare cost without a clear clinical benefit.

Management of adverse events related to endoscopic resection of upper gastrointestinal neoplasms: Review of the literature and recommendations from experts

Prevention therapy is recommended for lesions >1/2 of the esophageal circumference. Locoregional steroid injection is recommended for lesions >1/2-3/4 of the esophageal circumference and oral steroids are recommended for lesions >1/2 of the subtotal circumference. For lesions of the entire circumference, oral steroid combined with injection steroid is considered. Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) is the first choice of treatment for stricture after esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Radical incision and cutting or self-expandable metallic stent can be considered for refractory stricture after EBD. In case of intraoperative perforation during esophageal ESD, endoscopic clip closure should be initially attempted. Surgery is considered for treatment of delayed perforation. Current standard practice for prevention of delayed bleeding after gastric ESD includes prophylactic coagulation of vessels on post-ESD ulcers and giving proton pump inhibitors. Chronic kidney disease stage 4 or 5, multiple antithrombotic drug use, anticoagulant use, and heparin bridging therapy are high-risk factors for delayed bleeding after gastric ESD. Intraoperative perforation during gastric ESD is initially managed by endoscopic clip closure. If endoscopic clip closure is difficult, other methods such as over-the-scope clip (OTSC), polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheet shielding etc. are attempted. Delayed perforation usually requires surgical intervention, but endoscopic closure by OTSC or PGA sheet may be considered. Resection of three-quarters of the circumference is a risk factor for stenosis after gastric ESD. Giving prophylactic local steroid injection and/or oral steroid is reported, but effectiveness has not been fully verified as has been done for esophageal stricture. The main management method for gastric stenosis is EBD but it may cause perforation.

Efficacy of polyglycolic acid sheets and fibrin glue for prevention of bleeding after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients under continued antithrombotic agents

BACKGROUND

A novel method for the prevention of bleeding after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is necessary, as the numbers of patients taking antithrombotic agents have increased. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of the covering method using polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets and fibrin glue for ESD-induced ulcer in preventing post-ESD bleeding in patients under continued antithrombotic agents.

METHODS

One hundred five consecutive gastric tumors among 84 patients who were treated by ESD under continued antithrombotic agents between April 2014 and September 2015 were enrolled in this study. The patients were classified into two groups, the covering group (52 lesions among 38 patients; those with ESD in whom PGA sheets and fibrin glue were used as the covering method) and the control group (53 lesions among 46 patients; ESD only), and their post-ESD bleeding rates were compared.

RESULTS

No significant differences were seen in the number and type of antithrombotic agents, lesion location, median procedure time, and median resected specimen size between the groups. ESD was completed in all cases, with no cases of uncontrollable bleeding during the procedure. Post-ESD bleeding occurred in 5.8% (3/52) and 20.8% (11/53) in the covering and control groups, respectively. The post-ESD bleeding rate significantly differed between the groups (P = 0.04; odds ratio, 0.23; 95% confidential interval, 0.06-0.89). No adverse events were associated with the use of PGA sheets and fibrin glue.

CONCLUSIONS

The covering method using PGA sheets and fibrin glue has the potential to reduce post-ESD bleeding in patients receiving continued antithrombotic agents.

Endoscopic closure after intraluminal surgery

Endoscopic submucosal dissection is established as a curative endoscopic method for gastrointestinal epithelial neoplasms with a high possibility of complete en bloc resection; however, postoperative adverse events of bleeding and delayed perforation remain. To prevent or minimize them, several techniques for endoscopic mucosal closure have been introduced, such as using endoscopic clips, combined use of hemoclips and supplement devices, and specially designed endoscopic suturing devices. Furthermore, endoscopic full-thickness suturing technique for gastrointestinal wall defect has been developed based on the concept in natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery and endoscopic full-thickness resection. Several closure techniques, including over-the-scope clip, threaded bars inserted in a hollow needle, stitches or staplers, and a curved needle and thread are reported. Secure closure of the iatrogenic defect may further expand the range of therapeutic endoscopy. Accumulation of evidence for the efficacy of endoscopic closure and establishment of these techniques are desired.

A self-assembling matrix-forming gel can be easily and safely applied to prevent delayed bleeding after endoscopic resections

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic resections have low morbidity and mortality. Delayed bleeding has been reported in approximately 1 - 15 % of cases, increasing with antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy or portal hypertension. A self-assembling peptide (SAP) forming a gel could protect the mucosal defect during early healing. This retrospective trial aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of SAP in preventing delayed bleeding after endoscopic resections.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with endoscopic resections were enrolled in two tertiary referral centers. Patients with a high risk of bleeding (antiplatelet agents, anticoagulation drugs with heparin bridge therapy, and cirrhosis with portal hypertension) were also included. The SAP gel was applied immediately after resection to cover the whole ulcer bed.

RESULTS

In total, 56 patients were included with 65 lesions (esophagus [n = 8], stomach [n = 22], duodenum [n = 10], ampullary [n = 3], colon [n = 7], and rectum [n = 15]) in two centers. Among those 65 lesions, 29 were resected in high risk situations (9 uninterrupted aspirin therapy, 6 heparin bridge therapies, 5 cirrhosis and portal hypertension, 1 both cirrhosis and heparin bridge, 3 both cirrhosis and uninterrupted aspirin, 3 large duodenal lesions > 2 cm, and 2 early introduction of clopidogrel at day 1). The resection technique was endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in 40 cases, en bloc endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) in 16, piecemeal EMR in 6, and ampullectomy in 3. The mean lesion size was 37.9 mm (SD: 2.2 mm) with a mean area of 6.3 cm(2) (SD: 3.5 cm(2)). No difficulty was noted during application. Four delayed overt bleedings occurred (6.2 %) (3 hematochezia, 1 hematemesis) requiring endoscopic hemostasis. The mean hemoglobin drop off was 0.6 g/dL (- 0.6 to 3.1 g/dL). No adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSION

The use of this novel extracellular matrix scaffold may help to reduce post-endoscopic resection bleedings including in high risk situations. Its use is easy and safe but further comparative studies are warranted to completely evaluate its effectiveness.

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.

Endoscopic haemostasis: an overview of procedures and clinical scenarios

Acute gastrointestinal bleeding is among the most urgent situations in daily gastroenterological practise. Endoscopy plays a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of such cases. Endoscopic haemostasis is probably the most important technical challenge that must be mastered by gastroenterologists. It is essential for both the management of acute gastrointestinal haemorrhage and the prevention of bleeding during high-risk endoscopic procedures. During the last decade, endoscopic haemostasis techniques and tools have grown in parallel with the number of devices available for endotherapy. Haemostatic powders, over-the-scope clips, haemostatic forceps, and other emerging technologies have changed daily practise and complement the standard available armamentarium (injectable, thermal, and mechanical therapy). Although there is a lack of strong evidence-based information on these procedures because of the difficulty in designing statistically powerful trials on this topic, physicians must be aware of all available devices to be able to choose the best haemostatic tool for the most effective procedure. We herein present an overview of procedures and clinical scenarios to optimise the management of gastrointestinal bleeding in daily practise.

Complete closure of artificial gastric ulcer after endoscopic submucosal dissection by combined use of a single over-the-scope clip and through-the-scope clips (with videos)

Background

A 5–7 day hospital stay is usually needed after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of gastric tumor because of the possibility of delayed perforation or bleeding. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of combined use of a single over-the-scope clip (OTSC) and through-the-scope clips (TTSCs) to achieve complete closure of artificial gastric ulcer after ESD.

Methods

We prospectively studied 12 patients with early gastric cancer or gastric adenoma. We performed complete closure of post-ESD artificial gastric ulcer using a combination of a single OTSC and TTSCs.

Results

Mean size of post-ESD artificial ulcer was 54.6 mm. The mean operating time for the closure procedure was 15.2 min., and the success rate was 91.7 % (11/12). Patients who underwent complete closure of post-ESD artificial gastric ulcer could be discharged the day after ESD and the closing procedure.

Conclusions

Complete closure of post-ESD artificial gastric ulcer using a combination of a single OTSC and TTSCs is useful for shortening the period of hospitalization and reducing treatment cost.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00464-014-3725-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

A new endoscopic closure method for gastric mucosal defects: feasibility of endoscopic hand suturing in an ex vivo porcine model (with video)

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

More secure endoscopic closure techniques for iatrogenic gastric defects are required for safe endoscopic surgery. We developed a novel endoscopic suturing method, endoscopic hand suturing (EHS), of gastric mucosal defects and determined its feasibility and efficacy ex vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We created 24 mucosal defects (each 2 cm in diameter) by endoscopic submucosal dissection. The following three techniques were tested: EHS with a 3 - 0 barbed suture that was grasped with biopsy forceps (n = 6) or a prototype through-the-scope needle holder (n = 6) by endoscopy, looping with endoloops (n = 6) by endoscopy, and clipping with hemoclips (n = 6) by hand. The mucosal edges were attached to each other at three points. The closure strength was compared among the three groups, and the procedural duration was compared between the EHS and looping groups.

RESULTS

All 12 lesions were completely closed by EHS. The median strength of the closure, measured with a spring scale, was significantly greater in the EHS group (0.74 kg) than in the looping group (0.33 kg, P = 0.0012) or clipping group (0.07 kg, P = 0.0009). The median procedural duration did not significantly differ between the EHS and looping groups (19.7 vs. 19.8 minutes, P = 1.0000). The use of the needle holder significantly reduced the procedural duration compared with the biopsy forceps.

CONCLUSION

Mucosal defects can be firmly closed with EHS, which may be helpful for establishing a safer and more secure endoscopic surgery.

Gastric ESD under Heparin Replacement at High-Risk Patients of Thromboembolism Is Technically Feasible but Has a High Risk of Delayed Bleeding: Osaka University ESD Study Group

Objectives. Heparin replacement (HR) is often performed in patients with a high risk of thrombosis undergoing endoscopic procedures. However, information about the influence of HR is scarce. The aim of this study is to assess the clinical impact of HR for gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Methods. This is a retrospective study comprising approximately 1310 consecutive gastric neoplasms in 1250 patients, who underwent ESD in 5 institutes. We assessed the clinical findings and outcomes of ESD under HR, compared to ESD without HR as control. Results. A total of 24 EGC lesions in 24 patients were treated by ESD under HR. In the HR group, the complete en-bloc resection rate was 100%. The delayed bleeding rate was, however, higher in the HR group than in the controls (38% versus 4.6%). The timing of bleeding in the HR group was significantly later than in controls. In the control group, 209 patients discontinued antithrombotic therapy during perioperative period, and their delayed bleeding rate was not different from those without antithrombotic therapy (5.7% versus. 4.4%). A thromboembolic event was encountered in 1 patient under HR after delayed bleeding. Conclusion. ESD under HR is technically feasible but has a high risk of delayed bleeding.

Optimal biopsy site for Helicobacter pylori detection during endoscopic mucosectomy in patients with extensive gastric atrophy

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori eradication is essential for metachronous gastric cancer prevention in patients undergoing endoscopic mucosectomy (EMR). This study was aimed to determine the optimal biopsy site for H. pylori detection in the atrophic remnant mucosa of EMR patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data were analyzed from 91 EMR patients. Three paired biopsies for histology were taken at antrum, corpus lesser (CLC), and greater curve (CGC). Additional specimens were obtained at antrum and CGC for rapid urease test (RUT). H. pylori infection was defined as at least two positive specimens on histology and/or RUT. Serologic atrophy was determined by pepsinogen levels.

RESULTS

Overall H. pylori infection rate was 72.5%. The proportions of moderate-to-marked atrophy/intestinal metaplasia at CGC (5.6/6.6%) were significantly lower than those at antrum (58.6/75.8%) and CLC (60.7/70.0%). Sensitivity of histology in detecting H. pylori was significantly higher at CGC than at antrum and CLC (84.8 vs 30.3 and 47.0%, respectively; p < .001). On RUT, detection at CGC also showed higher sensitivity than at antrum (77.3 vs 33.3%, p < .001). Specificities of all three biopsy sites were more than 90%. Regardless of serologic atrophy, CGC showed consistently higher sensitivities on histology and RUT. In patients with serologic atrophy, antral sensitivities were much lower than those of nonatrophic patients, 9.5 versus 40.0% on histology (p = .012) and 14.3 versus 42.2% on RUT (p = .025).

CONCLUSIONS

CGC is the optimal biopsy site for H. pylori diagnosis in EMR patients with extensive atrophy. Antral biopsy should be avoided, especially in serologically atrophic patients.

Risk factors for delayed bleeding after endoscopic resection for large colorectal tumors

OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic resection techniques for treating colorectal tumors have advanced recently so that large colorectal tumors can now be treated endoscopically, although some patients experience delayed bleeding after endoscopic resection. Our aim was to clarify the risk factors for delayed bleeding after endoscopic resection for colorectal tumors≥20 mm in diameter. Endoscopic submucosal dissection cases were excluded because of the low incidence of delayed bleeding after such procedures.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study using a prospectively completed database and patient medical records at a single, national cancer institution. A total of 403 colorectal endoscopic resections were performed on 375 consecutive patients. We analyzed the database and retrospectively assessed patient age, gender, hypertension and current use of anticoagulant (warfarin) or antiplatelet drugs (e.g. aspirin, ticlopidine) as well as tumor location, size, macroscopic type, histopathological findings, resection method and whether or not placement of prophylactic clips was performed during the endoscopic resection.

RESULTS

The overall rate of delayed bleeding was 4.2% (17/403) and the median interval between endoscopic resection and the onset of delayed bleeding was 2 days (range, 1-14 days). All delayed bleeding cases were successfully controlled by endoscopic hemostasis involving clipping and/or electrocoagulation without the need for surgical interventions or blood transfusions. Based on our univariate analysis, the delayed bleeding rate was significantly higher in both males (P=0.04) and those patients without prophylactic clip placement (P=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study results indicated that prophylactic clip placement may be an effective method for preventing delayed bleeding after endoscopic resection for large colorectal tumors.

Management of bleeding and artificial gastric ulcers associated with endoscopic submucosal dissection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), an endoscopic procedure for the treatment of gastric epithelial neoplasia without lymph node metastases, spread rapidly, primarily in Japan, starting in the late 1990s. ESD enables en bloc resection of lesions that are difficult to resect using conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). However, in comparison to EMR, ESD requires a high level of endoscopic competence and a longer resection time. Thus, ESD is associated with a higher risk of adverse events, including intraoperative and postoperative bleeding and gastrointestinal perforation. In particular, because of a higher incidence of intraoperative bleeding with mucosal incision and submucosal dissection, which are distinctive endoscopic procedures in ESD, a strategy for endoscopic hemostasis, mainly by thermo-coagulation hemostasis using hemostatic forceps, is important. In addition, because of iatrogenic artificial ulcers that always form after ESD, endoscopic hemostasis and appropriate pharmacotherapy during the healing process are essential.

Routine mucosal closure with a detachable snare and clips after endoscopic submucosal dissection for gastric epithelial neoplasms: a randomized controlled trial

Background/Aims

The aim of this study was to determine whether the routine closure of mucosal defects after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) can enhance mucosal healing and reduce ESD-associated bleeding.

Methods

Patients with gastric epithelial neoplasias and no obvious submucosal invasion were prospectively enrolled. Mucosal defects were left untreated in the control group. In the study group, mucosal closure was attempted with a 2-channel endoscope, a detachable snare, and clips. All participants received a second-look endoscopy the day after ESD, and coagulation therapy was administered to patients with visible vessels and active bleeding points.

Results

Fifty-two patients were enrolled in the study, and 26 patients were assigned to each group. Complete mucosal defect closure occurred in 16 patients (61%) in the study group; incomplete closure occurred in 8 patients (31%) in the study group, and failed closure occurred in 2 patients (8%). Coagulation therapy at the second-look endoscopy was performed more often in the control group than in the study group (31% vs 4%, p=0.024). There were no significant differences in the incidence of immediate or delayed bleeding or in the two-week decrease in hemoglobin between the groups. The prevalence of open ulcers after 8 weeks was significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (18% vs 43%, p=0.012).

Conclusions

Routine mucosal closure after ESD supports earlier healing of artificial ulcers. A larger-scale trial is necessary to determine whether mucosal closure can reduce ESD-associated bleeding.

Management of the complications of endoscopic submucosal dissection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is currently widely accepted as a standard treatment option for early gastrointestinal neoplasms in Korea. However, ESD has technical difficulties and a longer procedure time than conventional endoscopic resection. So it may have a higher risk of complications than conventional endoscopic resection techniques. We, the ESD study group of Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, have experienced many complications, mostly treated by endoscopic or conservative management. Here, we introduce and share our experiences for management of post ESD complications and review published papers on the topic.

Low Levels of Pepsinogen I and Pepsinogen I/II Ratio are Valuable Serologic Markers for Predicting Extensive Gastric Corpus Atrophy in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Mucosectomy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The levels of pepsinogen (PG) I and the PGI/II ratio are useful serologic markers for chronic atrophic gastritis. This study evaluated the performance and clinical implications of these markers in patients undergoing endoscopic mucosectomy.

METHODS

We enrolled 142 consecutive patients with early gastric tumors and Helicobacter pylori infection who were eligible for mucosectomy. Chronic gastritis and atrophy were assessed using four defined biopsy procedures. Serum PGs were measured by an enzyme immunoassay. Optimal diagnostic cut-offs and performance were determined using receiver operating characteristic curves.

RESULTS

The PGI level and the PGI/II ratio decreased with corpus-dominant gastritis and as atrophy advanced toward the corpus greater curvature (GC). For the presence of corpus GC atrophy, the areas under the PGI and PGI/II-ratio curves were 0.82 and 0.77, respectively. The optimal cut-off levels were 59.3µg/L for PGI (sensitivity, 83.3%; specificity, 78.4%) and 3.6µg/L for PGI/II ratio (sensitivity, 70.0%; specificity, 78.4%). Using these serologic cut-off levels, we found that the frequency of corpus tumor location differed significantly (32.9% vs 11.1% for PGI <59.3 and ≥59.3µg/L, respectively; and 31.1% vs 14.8% for PGI/II ratio <3.5 and ≥3.5, respectively; p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A low PGI level and PGI/II ratio are valuable serologic markers for predicting corpus GC atrophy, and have clinical implications with respect to the corpus location of tumors in mucosectomy patients.

Recent advances in endoscopic therapy for diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy-associated perforations of the digestive tract

As diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy is more widely applied in clinical practice, endoscopy-associated perforations of the digestive tract have become more and more common. Among patients with endoscopy-associated perforations, few can be cured by conservative therapy, and the majority need to undergo laparoscopic or surgical operations to avoid serious consequences. However, the development of new medical instruments makes it possible to effectively and promptly manage endoscopy-related perforations via endoscopic suturing and closure.