Safety of carbon dioxide insufflation for upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopic treatment of patients under deep sedation

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Esophageal Cancer: Current and Future

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been widely used to treat superficial esophageal cancer. The advantages of esophageal ESD include a high en bloc resection rate and accurate pathological diagnosis. It enables local resection of the primary tumor and accurate identification of the risk factors for lymph node metastasis, including depth, vascular invasion, and types of invasion. Even in cases with clinical T1b-SM cancer, ESD and additional treatment can achieve radical cure, depending on the risk of lymph node metastasis. Esophageal ESD will be increasingly vital in minimally invasive and effective esophageal cancer treatment. This article describes the current status and prospects of esophageal ESD.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection techniques and technology: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Technical Review

ESGE suggests conventional endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD; marking and mucosal incision followed by circumferential incision and stepwise submucosal dissection) for most esophageal and gastric lesions. ESGE suggests tunneling ESD for esophageal lesions involving more than two-thirds of the esophageal circumference. ESGE recommends the pocket-creation method for colorectal ESD, at least if traction devices are not used. The use of dedicated ESD knives with size adequate to the location/thickness of the gastrointestinal wall is recommended. It is suggested that isotonic saline or viscous solutions can be used for submucosal injection. ESGE recommends traction methods in esophageal and colorectal ESD and in selected gastric lesions. After gastric ESD, coagulation of visible vessels is recommended, and post-procedural high dose proton pump inhibitor (PPI) (or vonoprazan). ESGE recommends against routine closure of the ESD defect, except in duodenal ESD. ESGE recommends corticosteroids after resection of  > 50 % of the esophageal circumference. The use of carbon dioxide when performing ESD is recommended. ESGE recommends against the performance of second-look endoscopy after ESD. ESGE recommends endoscopy/colonoscopy in the case of significant bleeding (hemodynamic instability, drop in hemoglobin > 2 g/dL, severe ongoing bleeding) to perform endoscopic hemostasis with thermal methods or clipping; hemostatic powders represent rescue therapies. ESGE recommends closure of immediate perforations with clips (through-the-scope or cap-mounted, depending on the size and shape of the perforation), as soon as possible but ideally after securing a good plane for further dissection.

Clinical outcomes of endoscopic resection of superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors: A 10-year retrospective, single-center study

BACKGROUND

Although premalignant duodenal lesions such as adenomas are uncommon, the incidences of these lesions have increased in recent times, and thus, the demand for minimally invasive treatments such as endoscopic resection (ER) has also increased. However, ER in the duodenum is more challenging than ER in other locations of the gastrointestinal tract.

AIM

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ER for superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs)

METHODS

We performed a retrospective observational study on 56 consecutive patients (58 lesions) diagnosed with SNADETs that underwent ER from January 2011 to December 2020 at Yeungnam University Hospital. Patient demographics, lesion characteristics, and procedural and technical data were collected, and clinical outcomes, including procedure-related complications, completeness of resection, and recurrence were analyzed.

RESULTS

Median patient age was 57 years [range, 26–77, 30 (53.6%) men]. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) was performed on 57 lesions (98.3%) and snare polypectomy on one (1.7%). Lesions consisted of 52 adenomas with low-grade dysplasia (89.7%), 3 adenomas with high-grade dysplasia (5.2%), and 3 intramucosal adenocarcinomas (5.2%). There were 16 cases of intraprocedural bleeding (27.6%) and 1 case of delayed bleeding (1.7%), and all these 17 cases were successfully managed endoscopically. No perforation or procedure-related death occurred. Larger lesion size was associated with an increased risk of EMR-related bleeding (P = 0.033). During a median follow-up period of 23 mo (range 6–100 mo), no local recurrence occurred, despite the fact one-third of the patients (19 lesions, 32.8%) underwent piecemeal resection and 3 patients (3 lesions, 5.2%) that underwent en bloc resection had a pathologically determined positive lateral margin. No patient died from a primary duodenal neoplasm.

CONCLUSION

The majority of SNADETs can be safely and curatively resected by EMR, and thus, based on consideration of the high incidence of fatal complications attributable to ESD, we conclude EMR, including piecemeal resection, should be considered the treatment of first choice for SNADETs.

Endoscopic resection of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: Current indications and treatment outcomes

Endoscopic resection (ER) is an alternate minimally invasive treatment for superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SESCC). We aimed to review the clinical indications and treatment outcomes of ER for SESCC. Endoscopic mucosal resection is relatively easy and efficient for SESCC ≤ 15 mm. In contrast, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is recommended to achieve en bloc resection for lesions >15 mm, in view of the accurate pathological evaluation. The Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society guidelines recommend ER for non‐circumferential cT1a‐EP/LPM (epithelium/lamina propria mucosae), cT1a‐MM/T1b‐SM1 (muscularis mucosa/superficial submucosa ≤ 200μm) SESCC, and whole‐circumferential T1a‐EP/LPM SESCC ≤ 50 mm (upon implementing preventive measures for stenosis), considering the risk‐benefit balance of ER. It defines pT1a‐EP/LPM without lymphovascular invasion as a curative endoscopic resection. The guidelines recommend additional esophagectomy or chemoradiotherapy for pT1b SESCC or any SESCC, with lymphovascular invasion. However, there is no recommendation for or against the administration of additional treatments for pT1a‐MM without lymphovascular invasion, owing to limited evidence. Researchers have reported on high en bloc and R0 resection rates of ESD, and a randomized controlled trial demonstrated that clip‐line traction‐assisted ESD could significantly reduce the ESD procedural time. Moreover, steroid treatment has been developed to prevent post‐ESD esophageal strictures. There have been reports on favorable long‐term outcomes of ESD. However, most of them are retrospective studies. Further robust data in prospective trials are warranted to achieve a definitive evidence of ESD, which will be beneficial to patients with SESCC.

A prospective randomized controlled trial of the safety and efficacy of carbon dioxide insufflation compared with room air insufflation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Carbon dioxide (CO₂ ) insufflation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (GESD) under sedation can be used instead of room air insufflation. Appropriate monitoring of the partial pressure of CO₂ during GESD is necessary due to the impaired respiration. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of CO₂ insufflation during GESD compared with conventional room air insufflation.

METHODS

Patients with a gastric epithelial neoplasm or early gastric cancer were enrolled. A total of 76 consecutive patients were randomly assigned to the CO₂ insufflation group (CO₂ group) or the room air insufflation group (air group). The primary outcome was the mean difference of end-tidal CO₂ (EtCO₂ ) between two groups.

RESULTS

The upper bound of the 95% CI for the mean EtCO₂ difference between the two groups before the procedure and at 15, 30 and 45 min after insufflation met the criteria for noninferiority. In a subgroup analysis of patients 70 years and older, the mean difference of EtCO₂ was not significantly different between two groups. However, the air group received more analgesics than the CO₂ group after the procedure (67.6% vs 35.1%, P = 0.005). In addition, in terms of improvement of abdominal pain or bowel gas after 24 h of GESD, CO₂ group showed better results than air group (both P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

CO₂ insufflation during GESD is as safe as using room air, and patients, including elderly patients, receiving CO₂ achieve more rapid relief of abdominal pain and intra-abdominal residual gas during and after the procedure.

Comparisons of the efficiency of respiratory rate monitoring devices and acoustic respiratory sound during endoscopic submucosal dissection

During moderate sedation for gastrointestinal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), monitoring of ventilatory function is recommended. We compared the following techniques of respiratory rate (RR) measurement with respiratory sound (RRa): capnography (RRc), thoracic impedance (RRi), and plethysmograph (RRp). This study enrolled patients aged ≥ 20 years who underwent esophageal (n = 19) and colorectal (n = 5) ESDs. RRc, RRi, RRp, and RRa were measured by Capnostream™ 20P, BSM-2300, Nellcor™ PM1000N, and Radical-7^®, respectively. In total, 413 RR data were collected from the esophageal ESD group and 114 RR data were collected from the colorectal ESD group. Compared with RRa during colorectal ESD, that during esophageal ESD had larger bias [95% limit of agreement (LOA)] with RRc [1.9 (- 11.0-14.8) vs. - 0.4 (- 2.9-2.2)], RRi [9.4 (- 16.8-9.4) vs. - 1.5 (- 12.0-8.9)], and RRp [0.3 (- 5.7-6.4) vs. 0.2 (- 3.2-3.6)]. Of the correct RR values displayed during esophageal ESD, > 90% were measured as RRa and RRp. Moreover, RRc was a useful parameter during colorectal ESD. To maximize patient safety during ESD under sedation, endoscopists and medical staff should know the feature and principle of the devices used for RR measurement. During esophageal ESD, RRa and RRp may be a good parameter to detect bradypnea or apnea. RRc, RRa and RRp are useful for reliable during colorectal ESD.Trial registration UMIN-CTR (UMIN000025421).

Safety and efficacy of endoscopic submucosal dissection for metachronous early cancer or precancerous lesions emerging at the anastomotic site after curative surgical resection of colorectal cancer

Background

The incidence of metachronous early cancer or precancerous lesions (MECPL) emerging at the anastomotic site (AS) after curative surgical resection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is so low that few study have been conducted to explore the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of these lesions. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is technically difficult for these lesions because of the presence of severe fibrosis and AS. The aim of this study was to explore the safety and efficacy of ESD for MECPL emerging at the AS after curative surgical resection of CRC.

Methods

The data used in the analysis were retrospectively collected from CICAMS in Beijing China between January 2013 and May 2019 and from all the patients who underwent ESD for MECPL emerging at the AS after curative surgical resection of CRC. The rates of en bloc resection (ER), complete resection (CR), curative resection (CuR) and incidence of complications were analyzed by SPSS software.

Results

A total of 11 patients were included. The rates of ER, CR and CuR were 63.6%, 54.5% and 54.5%, respectively. No additional surgery was performed, and no recurrences were found. Bleeding occurred in only one case and there was no perforation after the operation.

Conclusions

Overall, ESD is safe and effective in the treatment of MECPL emerging at the AS after curative surgical resection of CRC. Especially for patients with anastomotic recurrence close to anal margin, this method can avoid the risks of reoperation and improve the rate of anal preservation.

Safety of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients undergoing carbon dioxide insufflation in extended endoscopic procedures

Introduction:

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) insufflation for endoscopies has been shown to be more comfortable and safe, but only in patients without underlying chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study was to show that using CO₂ is safe in COPD patients.

Methods:

Patients were retrospectively identified who underwent extended endoscopic procedures during the time period of January 2012 to December 2017. Patients were included if they also had COPD. A matched control group without COPD was created during the same timeframe. All the patients were sedated with continuous monitoring of their CO₂ levels by end-tidal CO₂ (EtCO₂).

Results:

One hundred and ten patients had COPD and underwent an extended endoscopic procedure. These patients had a higher severity of their comorbidities (American Society of Anesthesiologists class 3 or 4) (93.6% [95% confidence interval [CI], 87.4%–96.9%] vs. 60.3% [95% CI, 51.1%–69.0%]; P < 0.01) and an increase of co-existing obstructive sleep apnea (33.6% vs. 6.3%, P < 0.01). There was no difference in baseline EtCO₂, but the peak EtCO₂ and postprocedure EtCO₂ were both significantly higher in the COPD group. The only postprocedural complication found was an inability to be extubated immediately following the procedure with subsequent need to hospitalize the patient, which occurred in three patients (2.8%; 95% CI, 0.9%–7.9%) in the COPD group and one (0.9%; 95% CI, 0.2%–4.9%) in the non-COPD group (P = 0.37).

Conclusion:

The present study, which was the only study looking at CO₂ insufflation specifically in COPD patients, provides evidence that CO₂ insufflation is safe in COPD despite a slight increase in EtCO₂.

A new reliable acoustic respiratory monitoring technology during upper gastrointestinal tract therapeutic endoscopy with CO2 insufflation

Previous studies documented the effectiveness and benefits of capnography monitoring during propofol-based sedation for colonoscopy to reduce the incidence of hypoxemia. However, the performance of capnography during longer duration endoscopic therapy of upper gastrointestinal tract cancers under CO₂ insufflation it is not well known. In this study, we compare a new device with acoustic monitoring technology to standard capnography monitoring. We retrospectively analyzed 49 patients who underwent endoscopic resection of early upper gastrointestinal tract cancer between December 2013 and October 2014. All 49 patients were monitored using both acoustic monitoring technology and standard capnography. We investigated the duration of the periods with unmeasurable respiratory rate during the overall procedure. When comparing standard capnography monitoring to the new acoustic monitoring technology, the ratio of the unmeasurable time was significantly lower in RRa (36.9% vs. 21.6%, p < 0.01). The ratio of unmeasurable respiratory rate by capnography was strongly correlated to the ratio of unmeasurable PETCO₂ level by capnography (R² = 0.847). There were no severe events or adverse events (grade 2 or more) during all 49 procedures. The acoustic monitoring technology provides a more reliable respiratory monitoring when compared to standard capnography during endoscopic resection of upper gastrointestinal tract cancers under CO₂ insufflation, even if the procedures were prolonged and complex.

Study on prevention of hypercapnia by nasal high flow in patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography during intravenous anesthesia

BACKGROUND

For relatively invasive upper gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures, such as an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and also lower gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures, intravenous anesthesia is routinely used to reduce patient anxiety. However, with the use of intravenous anesthesia, even at mild to moderate depth of anesthesia, there is always a risk of upper airway obstruction due to a relaxation of the upper airway muscles.With the advent of nasal high flow (NHF) devices that allow humidified high flow air through the nasal cavity, can be used as a respiratory management method in the context of anesthesia. AIRVO is commonly used for patients with obstructive sleep apnea and other respiratory disorders. This device uses a mild positive pressure load (several cmH2O) that improves carbon dioxide (CO2) washout and reduces rebreathing to improve respiratory function and therefore is widely used to prevent hypoxemia and hypercapnia.This study aims to maintain upper airway patency by applying NHF with air (AIRVO) as a respiratory management method during intravenous anesthesia for patients undergoing an ERCP. In addition, this study investigates whether the use of an NHF device in this context can prevent intraoperative hypercapnia and hypoxemia.

METHODS/DESIGN

This study design employed 2 groups of subjects. Both received intravenous anesthesia while undergoing an ERCP, and 1 group also used a concurrent nasal cannula NHF device. Here we examine if the use of an NHF device during intravenous anesthesia can prevent hypoxemia and hypercapnia, which could translate to improved anesthesia management.Efficacy endpoints were assessed using a transcutaneous CO2 monitor (TCM). This device measured the changes in CO2 concentration during treatment. Transcutaneous CO2 (PtcCO2) concentrations of 60 mm Hg or more (PaCO2 > 55 mm Hg) were considered marked hypercapnia. PtcCO2 concentrations of 50 to 60 mm Hg or more (equivalent to PaCO2 > 45 mm Hg) were considered moderate hypercapnia.Furthermore, the incidence of hypoxemia with a transcutaneous oxygen saturation value of 90% or less, and whether the use of NHF was effective in preventing this adverse clinical event were evaluated.

DISCUSSION

The purpose of this study was to obtain evidence for the utility of NHF as a potential therapeutic device for patients undergoing an ERCP under sedation, assessed by determining if the incidence rates of hypercapnia and hypoxemia decreased in the NHF device group, compared to the control group that did not use this device.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered in the jRCTs 072190021.URL https://jrct.niph.go.jp/en-latest-detail/jRCTs072190021.

Study on prevention of hypercapnia by Nasal High Flow in patients with endoscopic submucosal dissection during intravenous anesthesia

BACKGROUND

For relatively invasive upper gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures, such as an endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), intravenous anesthesia is routinely used to reduce patient anxiety. However, with the use of intravenous sedation, even at mild to moderate depth of anesthesia, there is always a risk of upper airway obstruction due to a relaxation of the upper airway muscles.With the advent of Nasal High Flow (NHF) devices that allow humidified high flow air through the nasal cavity, can be used as a respiratory management method in the context of anesthesia. AIRVO is commonly used for patients with obstructive sleep apnea and other respiratory disorders. This device uses a mild positive pressure load (several cmH2O) that improves carbon dioxide (CO2) washout and reduces rebreathing to improve respiratory function and therefore is widely used to prevent hypoxemia and hypercapnia.This study aims to maintain upper airway patency by applying NHF with air (AIRVO) as a respiratory management method during intravenous anesthesia for patients undergoing an ESD. In addition, this study investigates whether the use of an NHF device in this context can prevent intraoperative hypercapnia and hypoxemia.

METHODS/DESIGN

This study design employed 2 groups of subjects. Both received intravenous anesthesia while undergoing an ESD, and 1 group also used a concurrent nasal cannula NHF device. Here we examine if the use of an NHF device during intravenous anesthesia can prevent hypoxemia and hypercapnia, which could translate to improved anesthesia management.Efficacy endpoints were assessed using a transcutaneous CO2 monitor. This device measured the changes in CO2 concentration during treatment. Transcutaneous CO2 (PtcCO2) concentrations of 60 mmHg or more (PaCO2 > 55 mmHg) were considered marked hypercapnia. PtcCO2 concentrations of 50 to 60 mmHg or more (equivalent to PaCO2 > 45 mmHg) were considered moderate hypercapnia.Furthermore, the incidence of hypoxemia with a transcutaneous oxygen saturation value of 90% or less, and whether the use of NHF was effective in preventing this adverse clinical event were evaluated.

DISCUSSION

The purpose of this study was to obtain evidence for the utility of NHF as a potential therapeutic device for patients undergoing an ESD under anesthesia, assessed by determining if the incidence rates of hypercapnia and hypoxemia decreased in the NHF device group, compared to the control group that did not use of this device.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered the jRCTs 072190022.URL https://jrct.niph.go.jp/en-latest-detail/jRCTs072190022.

Saline-pocket endoscopic submucosal dissection for superficial colorectal neoplasms: a randomized controlled trial (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a time-consuming procedure because of the technical difficulty. The newly developed saline-pocket ESD (SP-ESD) provides a clearer view and better traction of the submucosal layer compared with the standard ESD with gas insufflation (S-ESD). This study aimed to prospectively compare the efficacy and safety between S-ESD and SP-ESD in patients with superficial colorectal neoplasms (SCNs).

METHODS

From April 2017 to November 2018, 95 patients with SCNs ≥20 mm in diameter were prospectively and randomly enrolled. Four patients were excluded because of an incomplete ESD procedure. Patients were finally allocated to 2 groups, S-ESD with 45 patients and SP-ESD with 46 patients. The primary outcome was dissection speed. Secondary outcomes were ESD procedure time, en bloc and complete resection rates, perforation rate, and adverse effects.

RESULTS

Median dissection speed was significantly faster in the SP-ESD than the S-ESD group (20.1 mm²/min [range, 17.3-28.1] vs 16.3 mm²/min [range, 11.4-19.8]; P < .001). Median procedure time was significantly shorter in the SP-ESD than the S-ESD group (29.5 minutes [range, 22.3-44] vs 41 minutes [range, 31-55]; P < .001). The en bloc and complete resection rates were 100% in both groups. No perforations occurred among patients. The volume of saline solution used in the SP-ESD group was significantly greater than that in the S-ESD group (200 mL [range, 120-250] vs 150 mL [range, 100-200]; P = .016).

CONCLUSIONS

SP-ESD improved dissection speed and procedure time compared with S-ESD. SP-ESD may be an alternative method for resection of SCNs. (Clinical trial registration number: UMIN 000026317.).

Carbon dioxide versus room air for colonoscopy in deeply sedated pediatric patients: a randomized controlled trial

Background and study aims  Use of carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) instead of room air (RA) during colonoscopy in adults revealed significantly less flatulence and abdominal pain in several studies. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of CO ₂ usage on post-interventional pain, abdominal discomfort, abdominal girth, pCO ₂ levels, and narcotic requirement in deeply sedated pediatric patients. Patients and methods  A total of 97 children and adolescents aged 4 years to 17 years undergoing colonoscopy were randomized to RA or CO ₂ in a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. Age-appropriate pain scales assessed abdominal pain as primary outcome. In addition, abdominal girth, abdominal bloating, transcutaneous pCO ₂ , narcotic requirement to achieve deeply sedation, and post-procedural analgesic demand was analyzed in 73 patients. Results  Overall, significantly fewer patients reported bloating in the CO ₂ group ( P  = 0.0012). However, we observed only a trend to lower post-interventional pain ( P  = 0.15) and a lower pain score. There was no significant difference in transcutaneous pCO ₂ level and no adverse events occurred. Although there was no difference in the dosage of propofol and midazolam, we observed a significant increased necessity for use of synthetic opioids in the RA group to achieve optimal examination conditions ( P  = 0.023). Conclusions  The benefits using CO ₂ in colonoscopy of deeply sedated children predominate. In particular, CO ₂ insufflation may allow a less painful post-interventional time and it significantly reduces abdominal bloating. Moreover, with CO ₂ , significantly less additional opioids were used. Thus, CO ₂ insufflation can be considered as safe in deeply sedated patients as there was no relevant pulmonary CO ₂ retention observed. (DRKS00013914).

Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of preserving the left colic artery in laparoscopic resection for rectal cancer: A meta-analysis

The aim of the present meta-analysis compared left colic artery (LCA) preservation with non-preservation in laparoscopic resection of rectal cancer in terms of feasibility, efficacy and safety. The PubMed, Ovid, Embase, Web of Science, CBM, CNKI, VIP and WanFang Data databases were searched prior to June 2017 for studies comparing LCA preservation and non-preservation in laparoscopic resection for rectal cancer. Two researchers screened the literature independently, extracted the data and evaluated the risk of bias. The study was performed using RevMan 5.3 software for meta-analysis. A total of 10 studies comparing LCA preservation and non-preservation in laparoscopic resection for rectal cancer were selected for this meta-analysis, with a combined study population of 1,471 patients. The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated that, when comparing LCA preservation with non-preservation in laparoscopic resection for rectal cancer, there were significant differences between the two groups in terms of operative time (P<0.01), estimated blood loss (P<0.01), percentage of neostomy (P<0.01), the number of retrieved lymph nodes (P<0.01), time to first postoperative exhaust (P<0.01) and amount of anastomotic leakage (P<0.01). However, there were no significant differences in postoperative hospital stay (P=0.28), incidence of recurrence (P=0.73) and incidence of metastasis (P=0.52). Therefore, compared with LCA non-preservation, patients in whom the LCA was preserved during laparoscopic resection for rectal cancer had a better prognosis. However, there was no difference in recurrence or metastasis between the two groups. Although the operative time and estimated blood loss were increased with LCA preservation, these may be reduced with improving proficiency of the operating surgeons. The conclusions of the present study require verification by larger samples and high-quality randomized controlled trials.

Carbon dioxide versus air insufflation enteroscopy: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVES

 To compare the insufflation of CO ₂ and ambient air in enteroscopy.

SEARCH SOURCES

 The investigators researched the electronic databases MedLine, Cochrane Library, Central, LILACS, BVS, Scopus and Cinahl. The grey search was conducted in the base of theses of the University of São Paulo, books of digestive endoscopy and references of selected articles and in previous systematic revisions.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

 The evaluation of eligibility was performed independently, in a non-blind manner, by two reviewers, firstly by title and abstract, followed by complete text. Disagreements between the reviewers were resolved by consensus.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS METHOD

 Through the spreadsheet of data extraction, where one author extracted the data and a second author checked the extraction. Disagreements were resolved by debate between the two reviewers. The quality analysis of the studies was performed using the Jadad score. The software RevMan 5 version 5.3 was used for the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

 Four randomized clinical trials were identified, totaling 473 patients submitted to enteroscopy and comparing insufflation of CO ₂ and ambient air. There was no statistical difference in the intubation depth between the two groups. When CO ₂ insufflation was reduced, there was a significant difference in pain levels 1 hour after the procedure (95 % IC, -2.49 [-4.72, -0.26], P : 0.03, I ² : 20%) and 3 hours after the procedure (95% IC, -3.05 [-5.92, -0.18], P : 0.04, I ² : 0 %). There was a usage of lower propofol dosage in the CO ₂ insufflation group, with significant difference (95 % IC, -67.68 [-115.53, -19.84], P : 0.006, I ² : 0 %). There was no significant difference between the groups in relation to the use of pethidine and to the oxygen saturation.

LIMITATIONS

 Restricted number of randomized clinical trials and nonuniformity of data were limitations to the analysis of the outcomes.

CONCLUSION

 The use of CO ₂ as insufflation gas in enteroscopy reduces the pain levels 1 hour and 3 hours after the procedure, in addition to the reduction of the sedation (propofol) dosage used.

The Comparison between Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection and Surgery in Gastric Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

AIMS

There are two treatment modalities for early gastric cancer (EGC)-surgery and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). We aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of ESD with surgery.

METHOD

The article was performed by searching PubMed databases. Data were extracted using predefined form and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) calculated and P value.

RESULTS

13 studies were identified. The incidence of perforation in two groups was different [OR = 6.18 (95% CI: 1.37-27.98), P = 0.02]. The prevalences of synchronous and metachronous cancer in the ESD group were higher than those in the surgery group [OR = 8.52 (95% CI: 1.99-36.56), P = 0.004 and OR = 7.15 (95% CI: 2.95-17.32), P < 0.0001]. The recurrence and complete resection rates were different [OR = 6.93 (95% CI: 2.83-16.96), P < 0.0001 and OR = 0.32 (95% CI: 0.20-0.52), P < 0.00001]. Compared with the surgery group, the hospital stay was shorter [IV = -7.15 (95% CI: -9.08-5.22), P < 0.00001], the adverse event rate was lower, and the quality of life (QOL) was better in the ESD group. The difference of bleeding was not found.

CONCLUSION

ESD appears to be preferable for EGC, due to a lower rate of adverse events, shorter hospital stay, cheaper cost, and higher QOL.

CO2 insufflation versus air insufflation for endoscopic submucosal dissection: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) insufflation is increasingly used for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) owing to the faster absorption of CO₂ as compared to that of air. Studies comparing CO₂ insufflation and air insufflation have reported conflicting results.

Objectives

This meta-analysis is aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of use of CO₂ insufflation for ESD.

Methods

Clinical trials of CO₂ insufflation versus air insufflation for ESD were searched in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database. We performed a meta-analysis of all randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Results

Eleven studies which compared the use of CO₂ insufflation and air insufflation, with a combined study population of 1026 patients, were included in the meta-analysis (n = 506 for CO₂ insufflation; n = 522 for air insufflation). Abdominal pain and VAS scores at 6h and 24h post-procedure in the CO₂ insufflation group were significantly lower than those in the air insufflation group, but not at 1h and 3h after ESD. The percentage of patients who experienced pain 1h and 24h post-procedure was obviously decreased. Use of CO₂ insufflation was associated with lower VAS scores for abdominal distention at 1h after ESD, but not at 24h after ESD. However, no significant differences were observed with respect to postoperative transcutaneous partial pressure carbon dioxide (PtcCO₂), arterial blood carbon dioxide partial pressure (PaCO₂), oxygen saturation (SpO₂%), abdominal circumference, hospital stay, white blood cell (WBC) counts, C-Reactive protein (CRP) level, dosage of sedatives used, incidence of dysphagia and other complications.

Conclusion

Use of CO₂ insufflation for ESD was safe and effective with regard to abdominal discomfort, procedure time, and the residual gas volume. However, there appeared no significant differences with respect to other parameters namely, PtcCO₂, PaCO₂, SpO₂%, abdominal circumference, hospital stay, sedation dosage, complications, WBC, CRP, and dysphagia.

Carbon Dioxide versus Air Insufflation in Gastric Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background/Aims

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) with air insufflation is commonly used for the staging and treatment of early gastric carcinoma. However, carbon dioxide (CO₂) use has been shown to cause less post-procedural pain and fewer adverse events. The objective of this study was to compare the post-procedural pain and adverse events associated with CO₂ and air insufflation in ESD.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted for randomized control trials (RCTs) comparing the two approaches in ESD. The Mantel-Haenszel method was used to analyze the data. The mean difference (MD) and odds ratio (OR) were used for continuous and categorical variables, respectively.

Results

Four RCTs with a total of 391 patients who underwent ESD were included in our meta-analysis. The difference in maximal post-procedural pain between the two groups was statistically significant (MD, -7.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], -13.6 – -1.21; p=0.020). However, no significant differences were found in the length of procedure, end-tidal CO₂, rate of perforation, and postprocedural hemorrhage between the two groups. The incidence of overall adverse events was significantly lower in the CO₂ group (OR, 0.51; CI, 0.32–0.84; p=0.007).

Conclusions:

CO₂ insufflation in gastric ESD is associated with less post-operative pain and discomfort, and a lower risk of overall adverse events compared with air insufflation.

Endoscopic resection of early gastric cancer: current status and new approaches

Endoscopic resection (ER) of early gastric cancer (EGC) has been an optimal treatment for selected patients. As endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been widely used for treatment of EGC, concerns have been asked to achieve curative resection for EGC while guaranteeing precise prediction of lymph node metastasis (LNM). Moreover, a new microscopic imaging for precise endoscopic diagnosis of EGC is introduced. This review covers the current status and new approaches of ER of EGC.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy under steady pressure automatically controlled endoscopy: First clinical series

AIM: To elucidate the safety of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) under steady pressure automatically controlled endoscopy (SPACE) using carbon dioxide (CO₂).

METHODS: Nine patients underwent PEG with a modified introducer method under conscious sedation. A T-tube was attached to the channel of an endoscope connected to an automatic surgical insufflator. The stomach was inflated under the SPACE system. The intragastric pressure was kept between 4-8 mmHg with a flow of CO₂ at 35 L/min. Median procedure time, intragastric pressure, median systolic blood pressure, partial pressure of CO₂, abdominal girth before and immediately after PEG, and free gas and small intestinal gas on abdominal X-ray before and after PEG were recorded.

RESULTS: PEG was completed under stable pneumostomach in all patients, with a median procedural time of 22 min. Median intragastric pressure was 6.9 mmHg and median arterial CO₂ pressure before and after PEG was 42.1 and 45.5 Torr (NS). The median abdominal girth before and after PEG was 68.1 and 69.6 cm (NS). A mild free gas image after PEG was observed in two patients, and faint abdominal gas in the downstream bowel was documented in two patients.

CONCLUSION: SPACE might enable standardized pneumostomach and modified introducer procedure of PEG.

Endoscopic submucosal tunnel dissection for large superficial esophageal squamous cell neoplasms

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

Autologous collagen induced chondrogenesis (ACIC: Shetty-Kim technique) - A matrix based acellular single stage arthroscopic cartilage repair technique

The defects of articular cartilage in the knee joint are a common degenerative disease and currently there are several established techniques to treat this problem, each with their own advantages and shortcomings. Autologous chondrocyte implantation is the current gold standard but the technique is expensive, time-consuming and most versions require two stage procedures and an arthrotomy. Autologous collagen induced chondrogenesis (ACIC) is a single-stage arthroscopic procedure and we developed. This method uses microfracture technique with atelocollagen mixed with fibrin gel to treat articular cartilage defects. We introduce this ACIC techniques and its scientific background.

Efficacy of carbon dioxide insufflation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection: a randomized, double-blind, controlled, prospective study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is commonly performed under air insufflation and is often accompanied by abdominal discomfort. CO2 is absorbed more rapidly by the body than is air; however, the use of CO2 insufflation in ESD remains controversial. This randomized, double-blind, controlled, prospective study was designed to assess the efficacy of CO2 versus air insufflation in gastric ESD.

METHODS

Between May 2012 and August 2014, a total of 110 patients with gastric tumors were randomly assigned to the CO2 insufflation (CO2 group, n = 54) or air insufflation group (air group, n = 56). Abdominal pain after ESD was chronologically recorded via visual analog scale (VAS) scores. Secondary outcome measurements were adverse events, abdominal circumference, amount of sedatives prescribed, and use of analgesics.

RESULTS

Neither the baseline patient characteristics nor the mean procedural time differed between the groups. The VAS score for abdominal pain was 35.2 in the CO2 insufflation group versus 48.5 in the air insufflation group 1 hour after ESD (P = .026), 27.8 versus 42.5 three hours after ESD (P = .007), 18.4 versus 34.8 six hours after ESD (P = .001), and 9.2 versus 21.9 one day after ESD (P < .001). Changes in abdominal circumference, the amounts of sedative drugs taken, and the adverse events did not differ between the groups. However, the air insufflation group required more analgesics than did the CO2 insufflation group (CO2 group, 22.0% [11/50]; air group, 42.3% [22/52]; P = .028).

CONCLUSIONS

CO2 insufflation during gastric ESD significantly reduced abdominal pain and analgesic usage compared with air insufflation. (

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01579071.)

Management and associated factors of delayed perforation after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection

AIM: To identify the actual clinical management and associated factors of delayed perforation after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD).

METHODS: A total of 4943 early gastric cancer (EGC) patients underwent ESD at our hospital between January 1999 and June 2012. We retrospectively assessed the actual management of delayed perforation. In addition, to determine the factors associated with delayed perforation, after excluding 123 EGC patients with perforations that occurred during the ESD procedure, we analyzed the following clinicopathological factors among the remaining 4820 EGC patients by comparing the ESD cases with delayed perforation and the ESD cases without perforation: age, sex, chronological periods, clinical indications for ESD, status of the stomach, location, gastric circumference, tumor size, invasion depth, presence/absence of ulceration, histological type, type of resection, and procedure time.

RESULTS: Delayed perforation occurred in 7 (0.1%) cases. The median time until the occurrence of delayed perforation was 11 h (range, 6-172 h). Three (43%) of the 7 cases required emergency surgery, while four were conservatively managed without surgical intervention. Among the 4 cases with conservative management, 2 were successfully managed endoscopically using the endoloop-endoclip technique. The median hospital stay was 18 d (range, 15-45 d). There were no delayed perforation-related deaths. Based on a multivariate analysis, gastric tube cases (OR = 11.0; 95%CI: 1.7-73.3; P = 0.013) were significantly associated with delayed perforation.

CONCLUSION: Endoscopists must be aware of not only the identified factors associated with delayed perforation, but also how to treat this complication effectively and promptly.

Novel strategy of endoscopic submucosal dissection using an insulation-tipped knife for early gastric cancer: near-side approach method

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) using insulation-tipped knives (IT knives) to treat gastric lesions located on the greater curvature of the gastric body remains technically challenging because of the associated bleeding, control of which can be difficult and time consuming. To eliminate these difficulties, we developed a novel strategy which we have called the "near-side approach method" and assessed its utility.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed patients who underwent ESD for solitary early gastric cancer located on the greater curvature of the gastric body from January 2003 to September 2014. The technical results of ESD were compared between the group treated with the novel near-side approach method and the group treated with the conventional method.

RESULTS

This study included 238 patients with 238 lesions, 118 of which were removed using the near-side approach method and 120 of which were removed using the conventional method. The median procedure time was 92 minutes for the near-side approach method and 120 minutes for the conventional method. The procedure time was significantly shorter in the near-side approach method arm. Although, the procedure time required by an experienced endoscopist was not significantly different between the two groups (100 vs. 110 minutes), the near-side approach group showed significantly shorter procedure time for a less-experienced endoscopist (90 vs. 120 minutes).

CONCLUSIONS

The near-side approach method appears to require less time to complete gastric ESD than the conventional method using IT knives for technically challenging lesions located on the greater curvature of the gastric body, especially if the procedure is performed by less-experienced endoscopists.

Treatment modalities for early gastric cancer

Different treatment modalities have been proposed in the treatment of early gastric cancer (EGC). Endoscopic resection (ER) is an established treatment that allows curative treatment, in selected cases. In addition, ER allows for an accurate histological staging, which is crucial when deciding on the best treatment option for EGC. Recently, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) have become alternatives to surgery in early gastric cancer, mainly in Asian countries. Patients with “standard” criteria can be successfully treated by EMR techniques. Those who meet “expanded” criteria may benefit from treatment by ESD, reducing the need for surgery. Standardized ESD training system is imperative to promulgate effective and safe ESD technique to practices with limited expertise. Although endoscopic resection is an option in patients with EGC, surgical treatment continues to be a widespread therapeutic option worldwide. In this review we tried to point out the treatment modalities for early gastric cancer.

Safety and efficacy of carbon dioxide insufflation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection

AIM: To compare the safety and efficacy of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and air insufflation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD).

METHODS: This study involved 116 patients who underwent gastric ESD between January and December 2009. After eliminating 29 patients who fit the exclusion criteria, 87 patients, without known pulmonary dysfunction, were randomized into the CO₂ insufflation (n = 36) or air insufflation (n = 51) groups. Standard ESD was performed with a CO₂ regulation unit (constant rate of 1.4 L/min) used for patients undergoing CO₂ insufflation. Patients received diazepam for conscious sedation and pentazocine for analgesia. Transcutaneous CO₂ tension (PtcCO₂) was recorded 15 min before, during, and after ESD with insufflation. PtcCO₂, the correlation between PtcCO₂ and procedure time, and ESD-related complications were compared between the two groups. Arterial blood gases were analyzed after ESD in the first 30 patients (12 with CO₂ and 18 with air insufflation) to assess the correlation between arterial blood CO₂ partial pressure (PaCO₂) and PtcCO₂.

RESULTS: There were no differences in respiratory functions, median sedative doses, or median procedure times between the groups. Similarly, there was no significant difference in post-ESD blood gas parameters, including PaCO₂, between the CO₂ and air groups (44.6 mmHg vs 45 mmHg). Both groups demonstrated median pH values of 7.36, and none of the patients exhibited acidemia. No significant differences were observed between the CO₂ and air groups with respect to baseline PtcCO₂ (39 mmHg vs 40 mmHg), peak PtcCO₂ during ESD (52 mmHg vs 51 mmHg), or median PtcCO₂ after ESD (50 mmHg vs 50 mmHg). There was a strong correlation between PaCO₂ and PtcCO₂ (r = 0.66; P < 0.001). The incidence of Mallory-Weiss tears was significantly lower with CO₂ insufflation than with air insufflation (0% vs 15.6%, P = 0.013). CO₂ insufflation did not cause any adverse events, such as CO₂ narcosis or gas embolisms.

CONCLUSION: CO₂ insufflation during gastric ESD results in similar blood gas levels as air insufflation, and also reduces the incidence of Mallory-Weiss tears.

Safety of carbon dioxide insufflation during gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection in patients with pulmonary dysfunction under conscious sedation

BACKGROUND

Carbon dioxide (CO2) insufflation is effective for gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). However, its safety is unknown in patients with pulmonary dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate the safety of CO2 insufflation during gastric ESD in patients with pulmonary dysfunction under conscious sedation.

METHODS

We analyzed 322 consecutive patients undergoing ESD using CO2 insufflation (1.4 L/min) for gastric lesions. Pulmonary dysfunction was defined as a forced expiratory volume in 1.0 s/forced vital capacity (FEV1.0%) <70% or vital capacity <80%. Transcutaneous partial pressure of CO2 (PtcCO2) was recorded before, during, and after ESD.

RESULTS

In total, 127 patients (39%) had pulmonary dysfunction. There were no significant differences in baseline PtcCO2 before ESD, peak PtcCO2 during ESD, and median PtcCO2 after ESD between the pulmonary dysfunction group and normal group. There was a significant correlation between PtcCO2 elevation from baseline and ESD procedure time (r = 0.22, P < 0.05) only in the pulmonary dysfunction group. In patients with FEV1.0% <60%, the correlation was much stronger (r = 0.39, P < 0.05). Neither the complication incidences nor the hospital stay differed between the two groups. CO2 narcosis or gas embolism was not reported in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

CO2 insufflation during gastric ESD in patients with pulmonary dysfunction under conscious sedation is safe with regard to complication risk and hospital stay. However, in patients with severe obstructive lung disease, especially in those with FEV1.0% <60%, longer procedure time may induce CO2 retention, thus requiring CO2 monitoring.

Complications related to gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection and their managements

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer is a well-established procedure with the advantage of resection in an en bloc fashion, regardless of the size, shape, coexisting ulcer, and location of the lesion. However, gastric ESD is a more difficult and meticulous technique, and also requires a longer procedure time, than conventional endoscopic mucosal resection. These factors naturally increase the risk of various complications. The two most common complications accompanying gastric ESD are bleeding and perforation. These complications are known to occur both intraoperatively and postoperatively. However, there are other rare but serious complications related to gastric ESD, including aspiration pneumonia, stenosis, venous thromboembolism, and air embolism. Endoscopists should have sufficient knowledge about such complications and be prepared to deal with them appropriately, as successful management of complications is necessary for the successful completion of the entire ESD procedure.

Propofol sedation during endoscopic treatment for early gastric cancer compared to midazolam

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been proposed as the gold standard in the treatment of early gastric cancer because it facilitates a more accurate histological assessment and reduces the risk of tumor recurrence. However, the time course of ESD for large gastric tumors is frequently prolonged because of the tumor size and technical difficulties and typically requires higher doses of sedative and pain-controlling drugs. Sedative or anesthetic drugs such as midazolam or propofol are used during the procedure. Therapeutic endoscopy of early gastric cancers can often be performed with only moderate sedation. Compared with midazolam, propofol has a very fast onset of action, short plasma half-life and time to achieve sedation, faster time to recovery and discharge, and results in higher patient satisfaction. For overall success, maintaining safety and stability not only during the procedure but also subsequently in the recovery room and ward is necessary. In obese patients, it is recommended that the injected dose be based on a calculated standard weight. Cooperation between gastroenterologists, surgeons, and anesthesiologists is imperative for a successful ESD procedure.

Endoscopic treatment for early gastric cancer

Gastric cancer remains one of the most common causes of cancer death. However the proportion of early gastric cancer (EGC) at diagnosis is increasing. Endoscopic treatment for EGC is actively performed worldwide in cases meeting specific criteria. Endoscopic mucosal resection can treat EGC with comparable results to surgery for selected cases. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) increases the en bloc and complete resection rates and reduces the local recurrence rate. ESD has been performed with expanded indication and is expected to be more widely used in the treatment of EGC through the technological advances in the near future. This review will describe the techniques, indications and outcomes of endoscopic treatment for EGC.

Gastric ESD: current status and future directions of devices and training

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of early gastric cancer, which has been proved to be safe and effective and is the established standard of care in Japan, has become increasingly established worldwide in the past decade. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is superior to EMR, as it is designed to provide precise pathologic staging and long-term curative therapy based on an en bloc R0 specimen irrespective of the size and/or location of the tumor. However, ESD requires highly skilled and experienced endoscopists. The introduction of ESD to the Western world necessitates collaborations between Eastern and Western endoscopists, pathologists, and surgeons.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for gastric tube cancer after esophagectomy

BACKGROUND

Recent improvements in the survival of patients after esophagectomy have led to an increasing occurrence of gastric tube cancer (GTC). Removal of the reconstructed gastric tube, however, can lead to high morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for GTC.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.

PATIENTS

We investigated patients with GTC after esophagectomy undergoing ESD from 1998 to 2011.

INTERVENTION ESD MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Patient characteristics, endoscopic findings, technical results, histopathology including curability and Helicobacter pylori gastritis, and long-term outcomes.

RESULTS

There were 51 consecutive patients with 79 lesions including 38 lesions (48%) meeting the absolute indication, 31 (39%) satisfying the expanded indications, and 10 (13%) falling outside such indications. The median procedure time was 90 minutes. There were 73 en bloc resections (92%), 59 en bloc resections with tumor-free margins (R0 resections, 75%), and 51 curative resections (65%) based on the Japanese Gastric Cancer Association criteria. Fifty patients (98%) were assessed as H pylori gastritis positive. Adverse events included 3 perforations (3.8%) during ESD and 2 delayed perforations (2.5%) without any emergency surgery and 3 delayed bleeding (3.8%). Local recurrence was detected in 4 patients (7.8%), and metachronous GTCs were identified in 18 patients (35%). Five patients (10%) died of GTC including 3 metachronous lesions. The 5-year overall survival rate was 68.4%, and the disease-specific survival rate was 86.7% with 100% for curative and 72.7% for non-curative patients during a median follow-up period of 3.8 years (range, 0-12.1 years).

LIMITATION

Single-center retrospective study.

CONCLUSIONS

ESD for GTC was feasible and effective for curative patients; however, long-term outcomes for non-curative patients were less satisfactory.

Endoscopic clip closure of gastrointestinal perforations, fistulae, and leaks

Development of endoscopic devices to close perforations has certainly revolutionized endoscopy. Immediate closure of perforations eliminates the need for surgery, which allows us to push the limits of endoscopic surgery from the mucosal plane to deep submucosal layers and eventually transmurally. The present article focuses on endoscopic closure devices, closure techniques, followed by a review of animal and clinical studies on endoscopic closure of perforations.

Carbon dioxide insufflation during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The role of carbon dioxide (CO2) insufflation during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is debated. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CO2 insufflation for ERCP.

METHODS

Searches were conducted in multiple databases composed of Pub-Medline, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, science citation index expanded, Google scholar, and CNKI China series full-text database. Outcome measurements are listed below: ERCP procedural data, post-ERCP abdominal discomfort, radiographic evaluation of bowel gas volume, and CO2 safety data concerning CO2 elimination.

RESULTS

Seven published randomized clinical trials involving 756 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected for meta-analysis, almost all of high quality. The incidence of ERCP-related complications was reduced by CO2 insufflation, so were the events of 1-hour, 3-hour, and 6-hour post-ERCP abdominal pain, based on their corresponding statistical results. Besides, CO2 insufflation was associated with less gas volume in the bowel lumen after the procedure. There were no significant differences between CO2 and air insufflation in total procedure time, the success rate of selective cannulation, post-ERCP abdominal distension, respectively. Subsequent sensitivity and subgroup analyses produced conflicting results.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with air insufflation, CO2 insufflation during ERCP reduces post-ERCP abdominal pain, post-ERCP bowel remnant gas volume, and ERCP-related complications, without clinically significant systematic CO2 retention.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for early gastric cancer in the remnant stomach after gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer (EGC) after surgical gastrectomy is a technically difficult procedure because of the limited working space in the remnant stomach as well as the presence of severe gastric fibrosis and staples under the suture line.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated clinical results including long-term outcomes to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of ESD for EGC in the remnant stomach of patients after gastrectomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.

PATIENTS

We investigated patients undergoing ESD for EGC in the remnant stomach from 1997 to 2011.

INTERVENTION ESD MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

We examined the patient characteristics, endoscopic findings, technical results, adverse events, and histopathologic results including curability and evaluations of Helicobacter pylori gastritis in addition to the rates of local recurrence, metachronous gastric cancer, overall survival, and cause-specific survival.

RESULTS

A total of 128 consecutive patients with 139 lesions had previously undergone 87 distal (68%), 25 proximal (19.5%) and 16 pylorus-preserving gastrectomies (12.5%). The median period from the original gastrectomy to the subsequent ESD for EGC in the remnant stomach was 5.7 years (range 0.6-51 years), the median tumor size was 13 mm (range 1-60 mm), and the median procedure time was 60 minutes (range 15-310 minutes). There were 131 en bloc resections (94%), with curative resections achieved for 109 lesions (78%); 22 lesions (16%) resulted in non-curative resections, and 8 lesions (6%) had only a horizontal margin positive or had inconclusive results. A total of 118 patients (92%) were assessed as H pylori gastritis-positive, with 7 patients (5%) negative. Adverse events included 2 cases of delayed bleeding (1.4%) and 2 perforations (1.4%), with 1 patient requiring emergency surgery. The 5-year overall and cause-specific survival rates were 87.3% and 100%, respectively, during a median follow-up period of 4.5 years (range 0-13.7 years), with no deaths from EGC in the remnant stomach.

LIMITATIONS

Single-center, retrospective study.

CONCLUSION

ESD for EGC in the remnant stomach of patients after gastrectomy was a feasible and effective therapeutic method and should become the standard treatment in such cases, based on the favorable long-term outcomes.

Autologous collagen-induced chondrogenesis: single-stage arthroscopic cartilage repair technique

Autologous collagen-induced chondrogenesis is a novel, single-staged arthroscopic cartilage repair technique using microdrilling and atelocollagen or fibrin gel application under carbon dioxide insufflation. Atelocollagen is a highly purified type I collagen obtained following the treatment of skin dermis with pepsin and telopeptide removal, making it nonimmunogenic. In this procedure, atelocollagen mixed with fibrinogen and thrombin in a 2-way syringe can maintain the shape of the articular surface approximately 5 minutes after application due to the reaction between the thrombin and fibrinogen. Carbon dioxide insufflation facilitates the application of the gel under dry conditions. Ten patients (mean age, 38 years) with symptomatic chondral defects in the knee who were treated arthroscopically with microdrilling and atelocollagen application were retrospectively analyzed. All defects were International Cartilage Repair Society grade III or IV and were 2 to 8 cm(2) in size intraoperatively. For the clinical assessment, Lysholm score was assessed preoperatively and at 2-year follow-up. All patients underwent morphological magnetic resonance imaging at 1.5-Tesla at 1-year follow-up. Mean Magnetic Resonance Imaging Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue score at 1-year follow-up was 70.4 ± 20.2 (range, 15-95). The Magnetic Resonance Imaging Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue score for patellar lesions was similar to that of lesions in other locations: 73.3 ± 11.7 vs 68.1 ± 25.5, respectively. This technique had encouraging clinical results at 2-year follow-up. Morphological magnetic resonance imaging shows good cartilage defect filling, and the biochemical magnetic resonance imaging suggests hyaline-like repair tissue.

Complications of gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection

Endoscopic resection is now a widely accepted treatment for early gastric cancer, having a negligible risk of lymph-node metastasis. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a relatively new endoscopic resection method developed in the mid-1990 s that facilitates en-bloc resection even in patients with large or ulcerative lesions difficult to resect using conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). However, compared to EMR, ESD requires a longer procedure time and a higher level of technical expertise, in addition to having a slightly greater risk of complications. Endoscopists must be aware of not only the risk factors for, and incidence of, complications, but also how to effectively treat such complications. Perforation and bleeding are the major complications associated with gastric ESD. The perforation and delayed bleeding rates have been reported to range from 1.2% to 5.2% and 0% to 15.6%, respectively, and can usually be managed with appropriate endoscopic treatment. Immediate bleeding during gastric ESD is quite common and controlling such bleeding, which is primarily achieved by carrying out electrocautery, plays a critical role in the successful completion of ESD.

Carbon dioxide insufflation safety in double-balloon enteroscopy: an experimental animal study

AIM

The aim of the present study was to assess the safety and efficacy of CO(2) during double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) in an experimental animal model study. In this study, insufflation with room air and with CO(2) was compared.

METHODS

Twenty healthy swines were used. The animals were randomly allocated to two groups. The room air-DBE group was insufflated with room air, whereas the CO(2)-DBE group was insufflated with CO(2). Endoscopy duration was 90 min. The following parameters were measured during the study (basal, 30 min, 60 min, 90 min): invasive hemodynamic parameters, ventilatory parameters, arterial blood gases, exploration depth, as well as biochemical tests. Residual gas was evaluated at the end of DBE, at 180 min and 24 h after DBE.

RESULTS

During the endoscopic exploration none of the animals showed hemodynamic, ventilatory or arterial blood gas alterations in the normal reference range for the swine species. The CO(2) group showed statistically significant differences over the room air group with lower post-procedure residual gas and greater depth of the small bowel explored.

CONCLUSION

The use of CO(2) for insufflation during DBE was safe and no complications associated with CO(2) were observed. In addition, the use of CO(2) offers benefits over the use of room air for insufflation during DBE.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection--current success and future directions

More than 10 years have passed since endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was first developed in Japan. ESD enables en bloc complete resection of superficial gastrointestinal neoplasms regardless of the size and location of the lesions. With improvements in techniques and devices, excellent therapeutic results have been achieved despite the inherent technical difficulties of this procedure. ESD aiming for curative treatment can be performed for gastrointestinal neoplasms without risk of lymph node metastasis. Accurate histopathologic examination of the resected specimen is required to determine the risk of lymph node metastasis, for which en bloc resection is beneficial. Owing to the high success rate of en bloc complete resection and accurate histopathologic examination, tumour recurrence rates after ESD are reported to be very low in Japan. Excellent results of ESD in a large number of cases have also been reported from other Asian countries such as South Korea, Taiwan and China. Although scepticism exists among Western clinicians regarding the application of ESD, it is developing slowly and reports indicate promising results in some European countries. With further development of technologies, such as endoscopic robotics, ESD could become the worldwide treatment of choice for early gastrointestinal neoplasms.

Inhibitory effects of carbon dioxide insufflation on pneumoperitoneum and bowel distension after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

AIM: To evaluate the inhibitory effects of carbon dioxide (CO₂) insufflation on pneumoperitoneum and bowel distension after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG).

METHODS: A total of 73 consecutive patients who were undergoing PEG were enrolled in our study. After eliminating 13 patients who fitted our exclusion criteria, 60 patients were randomly assigned to either CO₂ (30 patients) or air insufflation (30 patients) groups. PEG was performed by pull-through technique after three-point fixation of the gastric wall to the abdominal wall using a gastropexy device. Arterial blood gas analysis was performed immediately before and after the procedure. Abdominal X-ray was performed at 10 min and at 24 h after PEG to assess the extent of bowel distension. Abdominal computed tomography was performed at 24 h after the procedure to detect the presence of pneumoperitoneum. The outcomes of PEG for 7 d post-procedure were also investigated.

RESULTS: Among 30 patients each for the air and the CO₂ groups, PEG could not be conducted in 2 patients of the CO₂ group, thus they were excluded. Analyses of the remaining 58 patients showed that the patients’ backgrounds were not significantly different between the two groups. The elevation values of arterial partial pressure of CO₂ in the air group and the CO₂ group were 2.67 mmHg and 3.32 mmHg, respectively (P = 0.408). The evaluation of bowel distension on abdominal X ray revealed a significant decrease of small bowel distension in the CO₂ group compared to the air group (P < 0.001) at 10 min and 24 h after PEG, whereas there was no significant difference in large bowel distension between the two groups. Pneumoperitoneum was observed only in the air group but not in the CO₂ group (P = 0.003). There were no obvious differences in the laboratory data and clinical outcomes after PEG between the two groups.

CONCLUSION: There was no adverse event associated with CO₂ insufflation. CO₂ insufflation is considered to be safer and more comfortable for PEG patients because of the lower incidence of pneumoperitoneum and less distension of the small bowel.

[Iatrogenic gas embolism during upper gastroscopy in a patient with a multiperforated biliary drain placed by radiological way]

The authors report the first case of gas embolism arising during an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to a patient carrier of a biliary drain placed by radiological way. The hypothesis of a biliary-vascular fistula with abnormal connection between the biliary tree and the hepatic vascular system and finally an arteriovenous intrapulmonary shunt was retained to explain the physiopathology. The immediate stop of the endoscopic procedure and the implementation of symptomatic treatment allowed a favorable neurological outcome without sequelas. The realization of an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to a patient carrier of a biliary drain has to lead the anaesthesiologists and the gastroenterologists to take care given the incurred risk of gas embolism.

Meta-analysis: the use of carbon dioxide insufflation vs. room air insufflation for gastrointestinal endoscopy

BACKGROUND

Carbon dioxide (CO(2)) insufflation has been proposed as an alternative to air insufflation to distend the lumen in gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy.

AIM

To perform a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which CO(2) insufflation was compared with room air insufflation in GI endoscopy.

METHODS

Electronic and manual searches were combined to search RCTs. After methodological quality assessment and data extraction, the efficacy and safety of CO(2) insufflation were systematically assessed.

RESULTS

Twenty-one RCTs [13 on colonoscopy, four on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), two on double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE), one on oesophagogastroduodenoscopy, and one on flexible sigmoidoscopy] were identified. For colonoscopy, CO(2) insufflation resulted lower postprocedural pain intensity, and increased the proportion of patient without pain at 1 h (RR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.37-2.47) and 6 h (RR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.14-1.44) postprocedure. For ERCP, the pain-releasing effect of CO(2) insufflation was not obvious (SMD: -1.48, 95% CI: -3.56, 0.59). CO(2) insufflation revealed no consistent advantages in the RCTs of DBE, but was shown as safe as air insufflation in oesophagus/stomach endoscopic submucosal dissection in one study. pCO(2) level showed no significant variation during these procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with air insufflation, CO(2) insufflation during colonoscopy causes lower postprocedural pain and bowel distension without significant pCO(2) variation. More RCTs are needed to assess its advantages in other GI endoscopic procedures.

Learning curve for endoscopic submucosal dissection of early gastric cancer based on trainee experience

BACKGROUND AND AIM

There have been few previous reports on endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) learning curve for early gastric cancer (EGC) so we retrospectively assessed this subject based on experience of our trainees.

METHODS

Trainees in our center start performing ESDs for lesions in lower third of stomach with hands-on support by experts during first 10 cases and then perform ESDs by themselves primarily with verbal guidance from experts. They are gradually assigned to perform ESDs in middle and upper thirds of stomach. From January 1999 to December 2008, 464 EGC patients, who underwent ESD performed by 13 trainees, were assessed by dividing ESD cases into five training periods (A, 1-10; B, 11-20; C, 21-30; D, 31-40; and E, 41-50). We compared data from B to C, D and E.

RESULTS

Lesions in lower third were A/59%, B/57%, C/55%, D/36% and E/40% with B significantly higher than D (p<0.01) and E (p<0.05). Mean tumor sizes were A/13.9 ± 7.5mm, B/18.3 ± 11.4mm, C/19.0 ± 12.5mm, D/19.3 ± 11.7 mm and E/16.8 ± 10.3mm. En-bloc resection rate was 100% in every period. Delayed bleeding / perforation rates were A/0%/1.8%, B/2.8%/1.9%, C/1.9%/2.9%, D/1.1%/0% and E/2.1%/2.1%, respectively. Lower third procedure times were A/76 ± 39, B/90 ± 61, C/70 ± 48, D/60 ± 50 and E/55 ± 26 minutes with B significantly longer than D and E (p<0.05). Middle and upper third procedure times were A/104 ± 80, B/115 ± 68, C/106 ± 67, D/134 ± 86 and E/96 ± 55 minutes.

CONCLUSION

Step-by-step training was highly effective with 100% en-bloc resection rate and few complications. Learning curve point for our trainees to acquire performing ESD in lower third of stomach was 30 cases.

Effectiveness of CO2-insufflated endoscopic submucosal dissection with the duodenal balloon occlusion method for early esophageal or gastric cancer: a randomized case control prospective study

Background

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has typically been performed using air insufflation. Recently, however, insufflation of CO₂ has been increasingly used to avoid complications. This prospective study was designed to compare the CO₂ concentration, intestinal volume, and acid–base balance using the duodenal balloon procedure.

Methods

From June 2010 to February 2011, we enrolled 44 patients with esophageal or gastric cancer and randomly allocated them into two groups. We compared 22 patients undergoing CO₂-insufflated ESD with a balloon placed into the duodenal bulb (duodenal balloon group) and 22 patients undergoing regular CO₂-insufflated ESD (regular group). Three-dimensional computed tomography was performed before and after the procedure to measure intestinal volume. CO₂ concentrations were measured every 10 minutes. The visual analogue system (VAS) scores for postoperative symptoms were recorded, and pH was measured immediately after the procedure. This was a prospective case control study randomized by the sealed envelope method.

Results

Intestinal CO₂ gas volume before and after ESD was lower in the duodenal balloon group than in the regular group (P = 0.00027). The end-tidal CO₂ level was significantly lower in the duodenal balloon group than in the regular group (P = 0.0001). No significant differences in blood ΔpH were found between the two groups. The VAS score for the occurrence of nausea due to abdominal distension after ESD indicated a significant difference (P = 0.031).

Conclusions

ESD using the duodenal balloon occlusion method is effective for reduction of post-ESD intestinal CO₂ gas volume, resulting in a lower total amount of CO₂ insufflation during ESD and reducing harmful influences on the human body to some extent.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for removal of superficial gastrointestinal neoplasms: A technical review

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is now the most common endoscopic treatment in Japan for intramucosal gastrointestinal neoplasms (non-metastatic). ESD is an invasive endoscopic surgical procedure, requiring extensive knowledge, skill, and specialized equipment. ESD starts with evaluation of the lesion, as accurate assessment of the depth and margin of the lesion is essential. The devices and strategies used in ESD vary, depending on the nature of the lesion. Prior to the procedure, the operator must be knowledgeable about the treatment strategy(ies), the device(s) to use, the electrocautery machine settings, the substances to inject, and other aspects. In addition, the operator must be able to manage complications, should they arise, including immediate recognition of the complication(s) and its treatment. Finally, in case the ESD treatment is not successful, the operator should be prepared to apply alternative treatments. Thus, adequate knowledge and training are essential to successfully perform ESD.