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Spiritos Z, Horton A, Parish A, Niedzwiecki D, Wilson G, Kim CY, Wild D. Clinical Predictors of a Positive Ct Angiogram Study Used for the Evaluation of Acute Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage. Dig Dis Sci 2023; 68:181-186. [PMID: 35556194 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07514-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is one of the leading causes of emergency department visits and hospital admissions. CT angiography (CTA) has had an expanding role in the evaluation of acute GI bleeding because it is rapidly performed, widely available, reasonably sensitive and provides precise localization when positive. We attempted to identify patient and clinical characteristics that predict CTA results in order to help guide the utilization of this modality in patients with acute GI bleeding. METHODS In this retrospective study, we analyzed all CTAs performed for the evaluation of GI bleeding in the Duke University healthcare system between October 2019 and March 2020. We captured patient characteristics including age, sex, vital signs, hemoglobin, platelets, PT/INR, and anticoagulation status. Study indications were grouped by suspected source of bleeding: upper GI bleeding (hematemesis or coffee-ground emesis) vs small bowel bleeding (melena or "dark stools") vs lower GI bleeding (hematochezia or bright red blood per rectum (BRBPR)). Chi-square, Wilcoxon, t test, and multivariate logistic regression were used to describe and assess the relationship between patient characteristics and study outcomes (Table 1). Table 1 Univariate analysis of patient characteristics by CT angiography outcome Patient Characteristics by Positive CT for GI Bleed No (N = 274) Yes (N = 43) Total (N = 317) p value Gender 0.451 Female 138 (50.4%) 19 (44.2%) 157 (49.5%) Male 136 (49.6%) 24 (55.8%) 160 (50.5%) Age, median (Q1,Q3) 65 (51,75) 70 (62,80) 66 (52, 76) < 0.012 Heart rate, median (Q1,Q3) 86 (74,100) 89 (72,98) 86 (74, 99) 0.782 MAP, mean (SD) 87.32 (15.52) 81.72 (16.53) 86.56 0.033 Shock index, median (Q1,Q3) 0.70 (0.58, 0.85) 0.78 (0.55, 1.00) 0.71 (0.58, 0.85) 0.352 Hemoglobin 0.332 N 273 43 316 Median (Q1, Q3) 8.50 (6.90, 11.00) 7.70 (6.50, 11.30) 8.45 (6.90, 11.00) Baseline hemoglobin 0.202 N 258 39 297 Median (Q1, Q3) 11.20 (9.40, 13.00) 12.00 (9.40, 14.00) 11.20 (9.40, 13.00) Hemoglobin drop from baseline 0.062 N 258 39 297 Median (Q1, Q3) 2.10 (0.60, 3.70) 2.70 (1.20, 4.80) 2.20 (0.70, 3.80) Platelets, median (Q1, Q3) 219.5 (141, 301) 183 (139, 246) 217 (139, 282) 0.102 INR 0.272 N 263 42 305 Median (Q1, Q3) 1.10 (1.00, 1.30) 1.20 (1.00, 1.30) 1.10 (1.00, 1.30) Anticoagulation 0.131 No 155 (56.6%) 19 (44.2%) 174 (54.9%) Yes 119 (43.4%) 24 (55.8%) 143 (45.1%) Upper GI bleeding 0.401 No 251 (91.6%) 41 (95.3%) 292 (92.1%) Yes 23 (8.4%) 2 (4.7%) 25 (7.9%) Small Bowel bleeding 0.761 No 216 (78.8%) 33 (76.7%) 249 (78.5%) Yes 58 (21.2%) 10 (23.3%) 68 (21.5%) Lower GI bleeding 0.091 No 134 (48.9%) 15 (34.9%) 149 (47.0%) Yes 140 (51.1%) 28 (65.1%) 168 (53.0%) 1Chi-Square 2Wilcoxon 3Equal Variance T-Test RESULTS: A total of 317 patients underwent CTA between October 2019 and March 2020. Forty-three patients (13.6%) had a CTA positive for active bleeding. Multivariable logistic regression showed that after controlling for age, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and indication, only a hemoglobin drop from baseline was significantly associated with a positive CTA. For each 1 g / dL drop in hemoglobin from the patient's baseline, the odds of a positive CT increased by 1.17 (OR 1.17 95% CI 1.00 - 1.36, p = 0.04). Age (OR 1.02 95% CI 0.99 - 1.04, p = 0.06) and hematochezia / BRBPR (OR 2.09 95% CI 0.94-4.64, p = 0.07) approached statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS In patients who present to the hospital with GI bleeding, CTA can be a helpful triage tool that is most helpful in older patients with suspected lower GI bleeding with a drop in hemoglobin from baseline. Other clinical factors including MAP and the use of anticoagulants were not predictive of a positive CTA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Spiritos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, DUMC Box 3913, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Anthony Horton
- Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, DUMC Box 3913, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Alice Parish
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Donna Niedzwiecki
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Geargin Wilson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Charles Y Kim
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Daniel Wild
- Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, DUMC Box 3913, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
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Räsänen N, van Nieuwenhoven M. Gastroscopy in younger patients: an analysis of referrals and pathologies. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 33:1266-1273. [PMID: 34334711 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Diagnostic guidelines for the investigation of dyspepsia for patients <50 years have been implemented. However, it is unsure whether these guidelines are used appropriately. We aimed to investigate the adherence to the national guidelines of uninvestigated dyspepsia and to examine the prevalence of upper gastrointestinal pathology in patients 18-50 years. We also aimed to detect any possible risk factors for pathology in esophagogastroduodenoscopy referrals and to evaluate differences between referrals from the hospital and primary health care. METHOD This is a retrospective review of medical records including patients who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy between January 2019 and April 2020 (n = 1809). Odds ratios (OR), positive predictive values (PPV), negative predictive values (NPV), chi-square and Mann-Whitney U-tests were applied. RESULTS In total 1708 patients were included, of whom 43.6% (n = 744) had a pathologic finding. Age group 41-50 years showed the highest prevalence with an OR 1.34 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07-1.69]. Helicobacter pylori testing was performed in 21.1% (n = 167) of patients with dyspepsia lacking alarm symptoms (n = 791). PPV and OR were generally low for a pathologic esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The absence of alarm symptoms showed a high NPV for significant pathology (98.7-99.6%). Significant pathology was almost exclusively found in hospital-based referrals. CONCLUSIONS Esophagogastroduodenoscopy is widely performed in young adults, often without significant findings. Adherence to the national guidelines was poor. No referral factors were associated with a significant risk for a pathologic finding. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy based on primary healthcare referrals demonstrated almost exclusively benign pathology. Significant pathology was only found via hospital-based referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noora Räsänen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Ejtehadi F, Sivandzadeh GR, Hormati A, Ahmadpour S, Niknam R, Pezeshki Modares M. Timing of Emergency Endoscopy for Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Literature Review. Middle East J Dig Dis 2021; 13:177-185. [PMID: 36606214 PMCID: PMC9489462 DOI: 10.34172/mejdd.2021.223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a common cause for Emergency Department and hospital admissions and has significant mortality and morbidity if it remains untreated. Upper endoscopy is the key procedure for both diagnosis and treatment of acute upper GI bleeding. The aim of this article is to review the optimal timing of endoscopy in patients with acute upper GI bleeding. The cost-effectiveness and the influence of urgent or emergent endoscopy on patients' outcomes are discussed. Also, we compare and contrast the available evidence and guidelines regarding the recommended time points for performing endoscopy in different clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fardad Ejtehadi
- Associate Professor of Medicine, Gastroentrohepatology Research Center, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Gholam Reza Sivandzadeh
- Assistant Professor of Medicine, Gatroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
,Corresponding Author: Gholam Reza Sivandzadeh, MD Department of Internal Medicine, Gasteroenetrohepatology Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Namazi Hospital, Zand St., Shiraz, 7193711351, Fars, Iran. Tel: + 98 711 6473236 Fax: + 98 711 6474316
| | - Ahmad Hormati
- Assistant professor of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center, Firozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sajjad Ahmadpour
- Assistant Professor of Radiopharmacy, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Diseases Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Ramin Niknam
- Associate Professor of Medicine, Gatroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Pezeshki Modares
- Assistant professor of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center, Firozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Shahbazkhani B, Fanaeian MM, Farahvash MJ, Aletaha N, Alborzi F, Elli L, Shahbazkhani A, Zebardast J, Rostami-Nejad M. Prevalence of Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity in Patients with Refractory Functional Dyspepsia: a Randomized Double-blind Placebo Controlled Trial. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2401. [PMID: 32051513 PMCID: PMC7016109 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59532-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Refractory functional dyspepsia (RFD) is characterized by symptoms persistence in spite of medical treatment or H. pylori eradication. No study has yet investigated the presence of gluten-dependent RFD as a clinical presentation of Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS). Patients with RFD, in whom celiac disease, wheat allergy and H. pylori infection had been ruled out, followed a six weeks long gluten-free diet (GFD). Symptoms were evaluated by means of visual analogue scales; patients with ≥30% improvement in at least one of the reported symptoms after GFD underwent a double-blind placebo controlled gluten challenge. Subjects were randomly divided in two groups and symptoms were evaluated after the gluten/placebo challenge. GFD responders were further followed on for 3 months to evaluate the relationship between symptoms and gluten consumption. Out of 77 patients with RFD, 50 (65%) did not respond to GFD; 27 (35%) cases showed gastrointestinal symptoms improvement while on GFD; after blind gluten ingestion, symptoms recurred in 5 cases (6.4% of patients with RFD, 18% of GFD responders) suggesting the presence of NCGS. Furthermore, such extra-intestinal symptoms as fatigue and weakness (P = 0.000), musculo-skeletal pain (P = 0.000) and headache (P = 0.002) improved in NCGS patients on GFD. Because of the high prevalence of NCGS among patients with RFD, a diagnostic/therapeutic roadmap evaluating the effect of GFD in patients with RFD seems a reasonable (and simple) approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijan Shahbazkhani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad M Fanaeian
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad J Farahvash
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Najmeh Aletaha
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Foroogh Alborzi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Luca Elli
- Center for Prevention and Diagnosis of Celiac Disease, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Amirhossein Shahbazkhani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jayran Zebardast
- Cognitive Science Special Linguistics, Institute of Cognitive Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Rostami-Nejad
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Zullo A, Manta R, De Francesco V, Fiorini G, Hassan C, Vaira D. Diagnostic yield of upper endoscopy according to appropriateness: A systematic review. Dig Liver Dis 2019; 51:335-339. [PMID: 30583999 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2018.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Despite some official guidelines are available, a substantial rate of inappropriateness for upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopies has been reported. This study aimed to estimate the inappropriate rate of UGI in different countries, also including the diagnostic yield. METHODS A systematic review of studies on UGI endoscopy appropriateness was performed by adopting official guidelines as reference standard. Diagnostic yield of relevant endoscopic findings and cancers was compared between appropriate and inappropriate procedures. The Odd Ratio (OR) values and the Number-Needed-to-Scope (NNS) were calculated. RESULTS Data of 23 studies with a total of 53,392 patients were included. UGI indications were overall inappropriate in 21.7% (95% CI = 21.4-22.1) of the patients. The inappropriateness rate significantly (P < 0.0001) decreased from 35.1% in the earlier studies to 22.1%-23% in the more recent ones. A relevant finding was found in 43.3% of appropriate and in 35.1% of inappropriate endoscopies (P < 0.0001; OR: 1.42, 95% CI = 1.36-1.49; NNS = 12). Prevalence of cancers was also higher in appropriate than in inappropriate UGIs (2.98% vs. 0.09%, P < 0.0001; OR = 3.33; NNS = 48). The prevalence of detected cancers significantly (P < 0.004) increased from 1.38% in the earlier studies to 2.11% in the more recent ones, whilst prevalence of other relevant findings remained similar. CONCLUSIONS Rate of inappropriate UGI endoscopies is still high. Diagnostic yield of appropriate endoscopies is higher than that of inappropriate procedures, including upper GI cancers. Therefore, implementation of guidelines in clinical practice is urged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Zullo
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy,'Nuovo Regina Margherita' Hospital, Rome, Italy.
| | - Raffaele Manta
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, 'Generale' Hospital, Perugia, Italy
| | - Vincenzo De Francesco
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giulia Fiorini
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Cesare Hassan
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy,'Nuovo Regina Margherita' Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Dino Vaira
- Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Rajan S, Amaranathan A, Lakshminarayanan S, Sureshkumar S, Joseph M, Nelamangala Ramakrishnaiah VP. Appropriateness of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Guidelines for Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Prospective Analytical Study. Cureus 2019; 11:e4062. [PMID: 31016089 PMCID: PMC6464286 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Extensive use of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGE) with the advent of open access centers has resulted in inappropriate endoscopies. Our study aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) guidelines for UGE and to assess the diagnostic yield of endoscopy in a tertiary care center in South India. Methods The study was conducted as a prospective analytical study. Indications for endoscopy were classified as “ASGE appropriate” and “ASGE inappropriate”. The significance of association of ASGE guidelines and other categorical variables with endoscopic findings were assessed. Results ASGE appropriate indications and inappropriate indications accounted for 85.9% and 14.1% of endoscopies, respectively. The most common appropriate indication was persistent dyspepsia despite adequate proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy (28.1%) and the only inappropriate indication for endoscopy was isolated dyspepsia without adequate PPI therapy (14.1%). The diagnostic yield of endoscopy for appropriate indications was 69.5% and for inappropriate indications was 55.1%, the difference was statistically significant (P= 0.003; OR-1.857). The sensitivity and specificity of ASGE guidelines was 88.5% and 19.5%, respectively. Conclusion According to our study, ASGE guidelines may be considered as appropriate guidelines for UGE in our population and these guidelines were followed 85.9% of the times in referring patients for the same. However, the high diagnostic yield even in inappropriate endoscopies indicates the necessity of further studies that might identify other relevant indications for endoscopy, thus avoiding misutilization of resources without missing out on relevant cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Rajan
- Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, IND
| | - Anandhi Amaranathan
- Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, IND
| | - Subitha Lakshminarayanan
- Preventive Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, IND
| | - Sathasivam Sureshkumar
- Surgery, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, IND
| | - Manoj Joseph
- Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, IND
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Aslam F, Khalid AB, Siddiqui F, Jadoon Y. Predictors of serious findings on bi-directional endoscopy in young patients with anemia and GI symptoms. Pak J Med Sci 2018; 34:1004-1009. [PMID: 30190770 PMCID: PMC6115569 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.344.14391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) has been cited as the most common cause of anemia globally. Gastrointestinal (GI) lesions are amongst the common cause of IDA. Endoscopic evaluation is the most effective way to investigate the IDA. The aim of this study was to show the association of alarming GI symptoms with abnormal endoscopic findings and to cut off the burden and cost of unnecessary endoscopies. Methods: This is cross sectional study of anemic patient who underwent upper and lower GI endoscopies in Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi between July-December 2016. Results: Total 243 patients were identified after excluding ineligible patients. The mean age of subjects was 31.9 ± 6.1 years with a slight over-representation of females (57.4%). 149 (61.31%) patients underwent only upper GI endoscopic evaluation, and 83 (34.15%) patients on whom bi-directional endoscopy was performed (upper and lower). The remaining 11 (4.52%) patients underwent colonoscopy only. 16 (6.6%) subjects had negative findings on evaluation, while gastritis and serious findings were observed in 175 (72.0%) and 52 (21.4%) patients respectively. We found that patients with alarm features such as dysphagia (aOR: 2.07, 95%CI: 0.12-34.1), altered bowel habits (aOR: 1.64, 95%CI: 0.44-6.09) and weight loss (aOR: 1.25 95%CI: 0.54-2.85) demonstrated higher odds of serious findings on endoscopic evaluation as compared to the reference category, however they were not independently associated. Conclusion: Most of our patients had non-malignant pathologies, while alarm features were not found to be useful predictors of serious findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Aslam
- Dr. Faisal Aslam, MBBS, FCPS Medicine. Fellowship in GI, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah Bin Khalid
- Abdullah Bin Khalid, MBBS, FCPS Medicine, FCPS Gastroenterology. Lecturer, Assistant Professor, Dow Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan. Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Faraz Siddiqui
- Faraz Siddiqui, Senior Instructor (Research), Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Yamna Jadoon
- Yamna Jadoon, Undergraduate Medical Student, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
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Wells ML, Hansel SL, Bruining DH, Fletcher JG, Froemming AT, Barlow JM, Fidler JL. CT for Evaluation of Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding. Radiographics 2018; 38:1089-1107. [PMID: 29883267 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2018170138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is common and necessitates rapid diagnosis and treatment. Bleeding can occur anywhere throughout the GI tract and may be caused by many types of disease. The variety of enteric diseases that cause bleeding and the tendency for bleeding to be intermittent may make it difficult to render a diagnosis. The workup of GI bleeding is frequently prolonged and expensive, with examinations commonly needing to be repeated. The use of computed tomography (CT) for evaluation of acute GI bleeding is gaining popularity because it can be used to rapidly diagnose active bleeding and nonbleeding bowel disease. The CT examinations used to evaluate acute GI bleeding include CT angiography and multiphase CT enterography. Understanding the clinical evaluation of acute GI bleeding, including the advantages and limitations of endoscopic evaluation, is necessary for the appropriate selection of patients who may benefit from CT. Multiphase CT enterography is used primarily to evaluate stable patients who have undergone upper and lower endoscopy without identification of a bleeding source. CT angiography is used to examine stable and unstable patients who respond to resuscitation, are believed to be actively bleeding, and are considered unlikely to have an upper GI source of hemorrhage. In the emergent setting, CT may yield critical information regarding the presence, location, and cause of active bleeding-data that can guide the choice of subsequent therapy. Recent developments in the use of and techniques for performing CT angiography have made it a potential first-line tool for evaluating acute GI bleeding. ©RSNA, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Wells
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.L.W., J.G.F., A.T.F., J.M.B., J.L.F.) and Gastroenterology (S.L.H., D.H.B.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Stephanie L Hansel
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.L.W., J.G.F., A.T.F., J.M.B., J.L.F.) and Gastroenterology (S.L.H., D.H.B.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - David H Bruining
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.L.W., J.G.F., A.T.F., J.M.B., J.L.F.) and Gastroenterology (S.L.H., D.H.B.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Joel G Fletcher
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.L.W., J.G.F., A.T.F., J.M.B., J.L.F.) and Gastroenterology (S.L.H., D.H.B.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Adam T Froemming
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.L.W., J.G.F., A.T.F., J.M.B., J.L.F.) and Gastroenterology (S.L.H., D.H.B.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - John M Barlow
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.L.W., J.G.F., A.T.F., J.M.B., J.L.F.) and Gastroenterology (S.L.H., D.H.B.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
| | - Jeff L Fidler
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.L.W., J.G.F., A.T.F., J.M.B., J.L.F.) and Gastroenterology (S.L.H., D.H.B.), Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
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Ruhnke GW, Manning WG, Rubin DT, Meltzer DO. The Drivers of Discretionary Utilization: Clinical History Versus Physician Supply. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2017; 92:703-708. [PMID: 28441679 PMCID: PMC5407298 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000001500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Because the effect of physician supply on utilization remains controversial, literature based on non-Medicare populations is sparse, and a physician supply expansion is under way, the potential for physician-induced demand across diverse populations is important to understand. A substantial proportion of gastrointestinal endoscopies may be inappropriate. The authors analyzed the impact of physician supply, practice patterns, and clinical history on esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD, defined as discretionary) among patients hospitalized with lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). METHOD Among 34,344 patients hospitalized for LGIB from 2004 to 2009, 43.1% and 21.3% had a colonoscopy or EGD, respectively, during the index hospitalization or within 6 months after. Linking to the Dartmouth Atlas via patients' hospital referral region, gastroenterologist density and hospital care intensity (HCI) index were ascertained. Adjusting for age, gender, comorbidities, and race/education indicators, the association of gastroenterologist density, HCI index, and history of upper gastrointestinal disease with EGD was estimated using logistic regression. RESULTS EGD was not associated with gastroenterologist density or HCI index, but was associated with a history of upper gastrointestinal disease (OR 2.30; 95% CI 2.17-2.43), peptic ulcer disease (OR 4.82; 95% CI 4.26-5.45), and liver disease (OR 1.34; 95% CI 1.18-1.54). CONCLUSIONS Among patients hospitalized with LGIB, large variation in gastroenterologist density did not predict EGD, but relevant clinical history did, with association strengths commensurate with risk for upper gastrointestinal bleeding. In the scenario studied, no evidence was found that specialty physician supply increases will result in more discretionary care within commercially insured populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory W Ruhnke
- G.W. Ruhnke is assistant professor, Section of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.W.G. Manning was professor, Department of Health Studies, and professor, Public Policy Studies and Public Health Sciences, Harris School of Public Policy Studies, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.D.T. Rubin is professor of medicine and section chief, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.D.O. Meltzer is section chief, Hospital Medicine, Fanny L. Pritzker Professor of Medicine, and director, Center for Health and the Social Sciences, Pritzker School of Medicine, and professor, Harris School of Public Policy Studies, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Celik M. Efficacy of early endoscopy and colonoscopy in very elderly patients with gastrointestinal bleeding. Pak J Med Sci 2017; 33:187-190. [PMID: 28367197 PMCID: PMC5368306 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.331.11616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of early (within the first 24 hour from application) endoscopy and colonoscopy in very elderly patients with GIS bleeding. METHODS In this study, 95 patients were included who underwent early endoscopy with the pre-diagnosis of upper GIS bleeding or endoscopy-colonoscopy with the pre-diagnosis of lower GIS bleeding between 2012 and 2016. Endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures were compared in terms of the development of complications, tolerance of procedure, detection of bleeding site, and rate of therapeutic interventions performed for bleeding. In addition, the adequacy of colonoscopy preparation was evaluated. RESULTS There was no significant difference between endoscopy and colonoscopy on procedural complication (2.1% vs 2.8%) and tolerance rates (81% vs 74.2), (p>0.05). The bleeding site was detected during endoscopy in 34(56.6%) patients, and an endoscopic intervention was required for 15(25%) of these patients. The bleeding site was detected during colonoscopy in 12(34.3%) patients, and an endoscopic intervention was performed for two (5.7%) patients (p<0.05). In addition, the colonoscopy procedure was suboptimal in 26 of 35 patients (74.2%) because of poor preparations. CONCLUSION Early endoscopy and colonoscopy are safe and well tolerated in very elderly patients with GIS bleeding. Upper GIS endoscopy in this patient population enables the detection of the bleeding site and an endoscopic intervention for the bleeding. However, colonoscopy is insufficient for detecting bleeding sites, and colonoscopic treatment of bleeding sites is difficult because of poor or no preparation in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Celik
- Mustafa Celik, Department of Gastroenterology, Pamukkale University Training and Research Hospital, Denizli; Turkey
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Bendvold B, Weberg R, Husby A, Refsum A, Brudvik KW. Nomogram predicting macroscopic finding with limited or no clinical implication in 19175 patients referred to esophagogastroduodenoscopy. COGENT MEDICINE 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/2331205x.2016.1203174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Bendvold
- Department of Surgery, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ragnar Weberg
- Department of Medicine, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anders Husby
- Department of Surgery, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arne Refsum
- Department of Surgery, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristoffer Watten Brudvik
- Department of Surgery, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
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12
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The use of Benincasa hispida for the treatment of uninvestigated dyspepsia: Preliminary results of a non-randomised open label pilot clinical trial. ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aimed.2015.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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13
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Predictive Factors for Endoscopic Visibility and Strategies for Pre-endoscopic Prokinetics Use in Patients with Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding. Dig Dis Sci 2015; 60:957-65. [PMID: 25326116 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-014-3393-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although current guideline recommends selective use of pre-endoscopic prokinetics to increase diagnostic yield in upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) patients, no data to guide the use of these drugs are available. AIMS We aimed to investigate predictive factors for endoscopic visibility and develop simple and useful strategies for pre-endoscopic prokinetics use in UGIB patients. METHODS A total of 220 consecutive patients who underwent upper endoscopy for suspicious UGIB were enrolled. Patients were randomly allocated to either a training or a validation set at a 2:1 ratio. Significant parameters on univariate analysis were subsequently tested by a classification and regression tree (CART) analysis. RESULTS Time to endoscopy and nasogastric aspirate findings were independently related to endoscopic visibility. The CART analysis generated algorithms proposed sequential use of time to endoscopy (≤5.2 vs. >5.2 h) and nasogastric aspirate findings (red blood or coffee rounds vs. clear aspirate) for predicting endoscopic visibility. Prediction of unacceptable visibility in the validation set produced sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 75.8, 67.5, 65.8, and 77.1 %, respectively. Accurate prediction for visibility was identified in 52 of 73 patients (71.2 %). CONCLUSIONS Time to endoscopy and nasogastric aspirate findings were independently related to endoscopic visibility in patients with UGIB. A decision-tree model incorporating these two variables may be useful for selecting UGIB patients who benefit from pre-endoscopic prokinetics use.
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Chen ZJ, Freeman ML. Management of upper gastrointestinal bleeding emergencies: evidence-based medicine and practical considerations. World J Emerg Med 2014; 2:5-12. [PMID: 25214975 DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2011.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2010] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding remains one of the most common encounters in emergency medicine. The increased use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs by the general population and the increased prescription of anti-platelet agents and anti-coagulants after cardiovascular interventions and for prevention of cerebral vascular accidents may have aggravated the situation. Significant progress has been made in the past decade or so in the non-surgical management of acute upper GI bleeding emergencies. This article will review the current standard treatment of the most common upper GI bleeding emergencies in adults as supported by evidence-based medicine with practical considerations from the authors' own practice experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongyu John Chen
- Minnesota Gastroenterology PA, Minneapolis, MN 55414 (Chen ZJ); Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455 (Freeman ML), USA
| | - Martin L Freeman
- Minnesota Gastroenterology PA, Minneapolis, MN 55414 (Chen ZJ); Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455 (Freeman ML), USA
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Burri E, Manz M, Schroeder P, Froehlich F, Rossi L, Beglinger C, Lehmann FS. Diagnostic yield of endoscopy in patients with abdominal complaints: incremental value of faecal calprotectin on guidelines of appropriateness. BMC Gastroenterol 2014; 14:57. [PMID: 24679065 PMCID: PMC4021405 DOI: 10.1186/1471-230x-14-57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND European Panel on the Appropriateness of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (EPAGE) criteria have been developed to increase diagnostic yield, but their predictive value is limited. We investigated the incremental diagnostic value of faecal calprotectin to EPAGE criteria. METHODS In a post-hoc analysis of a prospective study, EPAGE criteria were applied to 298 of 575 (51.8%) patients who had undergone esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), colonoscopy or both for abdominal complaints at the Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at the University Hospital Basel in Switzerland. Faecal calprotectin was measured in stool samples collected within 24 hours before the investigation using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Final endoscopic diagnoses were blinded to calprotectin values. RESULTS Of 149 EGDs and 224 colonoscopies, 17.6% and 14.7% respectively were judged inappropriate by EPAGE criteria. Appropriate or uncertain indications revealed more endoscopic findings in both EGD (46.3% vs. 23.1%, P = 0.049) and colonoscopy (23.6% vs. 6.1%, P = 0.041) than inappropriate indications. Median calprotectin levels were higher (81.5 μg/g, interquartile range 26-175, vs. 10 μg/g, IQR 10-22, P < 0.001) and testing was more often positive (>50 μg/g) in patients with endoscopic findings, both in EGD (58.2% vs. 33.0%, P = 0.005) and in colonoscopy (57.3% vs. 7.4%, P < 0.001). The use of faecal calprotectin in addition to EPAGE criteria improved the risk reclassification of patients by endoscopic findings. The calculated net reclassification index was 37.8% (P = 0.002) for EGD and 110.9% (P <0.001) for colonoscopy, thus improving diagnostic yield to 56.8% and 70.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The use of faecal calprotectin in addition to EPAGE criteria improved diagnostic yield in patients with abdominal complaints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuel Burri
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University Hospital Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland.
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Alema ON, Martin DO, Okello TR. Endoscopic findings in upper gastrointestinal bleeding patients at Lacor hospital, northern Uganda. Afr Health Sci 2012; 12:518-21. [PMID: 23515280 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v12i4.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common emergency medical condition that may require hospitalization and resuscitation, and results in high patient morbidity. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is the preferred investigative procedure for UGIB because of its accuracy, low rate of complication, and its potential for therapeutic interventions. OBJECTIVE To determine the endoscopic findings in patients presenting with UGIB and its frequency among these patients according to gender and age in Lacor hospital, northern Uganda. METHODS The study was carried out at Lacor hospital, located at northern part of Uganda. The record of 224 patients who underwent endoscopy for upper gastrointestinal bleeding over a period of 5 years between January 2006 and December 2010 were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS A total of 224 patients had endoscopy for UGIB which consisted of 113 (50.4%) males and 111 (49.6%) females, and the mean age was 42 years ± SD 15.88. The commonest cause of UGIB was esophagealvarices consisting of 40.6%, followed by esophagitis (14.7%), gastritis (12.6%) and peptic ulcer disease (duodenal and gastric ulcers) was 6.2%. The malignant conditions (gastric and esophageal cancers) contributed to 2.6%. Other less frequent causes of UGIB were hiatus hernia (1.8), duodenitis (0.9%), others-gastric polyp (0.4%). Normal endoscopic finding was 16.1% in patients who had UGIB. CONCLUSIONS Esophageal varices are the commonest cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in this environment as compared to the west which is mainly peptic ulcer disease.
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A nine-year audit of open-access upper gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures: results and experience of a single centre. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2011; 25:83-8. [PMID: 21321679 DOI: 10.1155/2011/379014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The appropriateness and safety of open-access endoscopy are very important issues as its use continues to increase. OBJECTIVE To present a review of a nine-year experience with open-access upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with respect to indications, diagnostic efficacy, safety and diseases diagnosed. METHODS A retrospective, observational case series of all patients who underwent open-access endoscopy between January 2000 and December 2008 was conducted. Indications were classified as appropriate or not appropriate according to American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) guidelines. Endoscopic diagnoses were based on widely accepted criteria. Major complication rates were assessed. RESULTS A total of 20,620 patients with a mean age of 58 years were assessed, of whom 11,589 (56.2%) were women and 9031 (43.8%) were men. Adherence to ASGE indications led to statistically significant, clinically relevant findings. The most common indications in patients older than age 45 years of age were dyspepsia (28.5%) and anemia (19.7%) in the ASGE-appropriate group, and dyspepsia in patients younger than 45 years of age without therapy trial (6.6%) in the nonappropriate group. Of the examinations, 38.57% were normal. Hiatal hernia and nonerosive gastritis were the most common findings. Important diagnoses such as malignancies and duodenal ulcers would have been missed if endoscopies were performed only according to appropriateness. There were only two major complications and no mortalities. CONCLUSIONS Open-access upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is a safe and effective system. More relevant findings were found when adhering to the ASGE guidelines. However, using these guidelines as the sole determining factor in whether to perform an endoscopy is not advisable because many clinically relevant diagnoses may be overlooked.
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Abstract
The main issue regarding the approach to the patient with uninvestigated dyspepsia is whether the symptoms are the result of an important clinical illness, which then determines the appropriate management strategy for the treatment of the symptoms. An initial trial of empiric antisecretory drugs is recommended for those without Helicobacter pylori infection and no alarm symptoms, whereas H. pylori eradication is recommended for those with an active H. pylori infection. Treatment expectations for H. pylori infections should theoretically be similar to other common infectious diseases. In most regions, clarithromycin resistance has undermined traditional triple therapy so that it is no longer a suitable choice as an empiric therapy. Four drug therapies, such as sequential, concomitant, and bismuth-quadruple therapy are generally still acceptable choices as empiric therapies. Posteradication testing is highly recommended to provide early identification of otherwise unrecognized increasing antimicrobial resistance. However, despite the ability to successfully cure H. pylori infections, a symptomatic response can be expected in only a minority of those with dyspepsia not associated with ulcers (so called nonulcer dyspepsia). Overall, from the patients stand point, symptomatic relief is often difficult to achieve and physicians must rely on reassurance along with empiric and individualized care.
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Tan VP, Yan BP, Kiernan TJ, Ajani AE. Risk and management of upper gastrointestinal bleeding associated with prolonged dual-antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention. CARDIOVASCULAR REVASCULARIZATION MEDICINE 2009; 10:36-44. [PMID: 19159853 DOI: 10.1016/j.carrev.2008.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2008] [Revised: 11/02/2008] [Accepted: 11/03/2008] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Prolonged dual-antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel is mandatory after drug-eluting stent implantation because of the potential increased risk of late stent thrombosis. The concern regarding prolonged antiplatelet therapy is the increased risk of bleeding. Gastrointestinal bleeding is the most common site of bleeding and presents a serious threat to patients due to the competing risks of gastrointestinal hemorrhage and stent thrombosis. Currently, there are no guidelines and little evidence on how best to manage these patients who are at high risk of morbidity and mortality from both the bleeding itself and the consequences of achieving optimum hemostasis by interruption of antiplatelet therapy. Managing gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient who has undergone recent percutaneous coronary intervention requires balancing the risk of stent thrombosis against further catastrophic bleeding. Close combined management between gastroenterologist and cardiologist is advocated to optimize patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria P Tan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
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Video capsule endoscopy in life-threatening GI hemorrhage after negative primary endoscopy (with video). Gastrointest Endosc 2009; 69:366-71. [PMID: 19185698 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2008.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2007] [Accepted: 10/19/2008] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) continues to evolve as a key diagnostic tool. Traditionally VCE has been used to detect occult and obscure GI bleeding in adult patients. VCE has not been documented or accepted as an early diagnostic tool for acute life-threatening GI hemorrhage. OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to demonstrate the use of VCE as an early diagnostic tool in acute life-threatening GI hemorrhage. DESIGN Case series. PATIENTS Patients with life-threatening GI hemorrhage. INTERVENTIONS VCE after negative primary endoscopy. RESULTS VCE allowed rapid diagnosis and reliable data before surgical intervention. Although proving to be a beneficial diagnostic tool for acute GI hemorrhage, VCE was not associated with increased morbidity or mortality rates. LIMITATIONS This report only focuses on cases where VCE successfully led to a diagnosis. There is no prospective control group to which these patients can be compared. There were no other attempted acute VCE studies in patients with life-threatening bleeding during the time period of these case reports. CONCLUSIONS The use of VCE is a simple and relatively safe diagnostic tool in the evaluation of continuing GI hemorrhaging in endoscopy-negative patients. The use of VCE can be considered as a another useful tool in the armamentarium of the endoscopist in the evaluation of GI bleeding. Prospective studies should be undertaken to determine the appropriate timing and clinical use in this group of patients.
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Simple uninvestigated dyspepsia: age threshold for early endoscopy in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2009; 21:39-44. [PMID: 19086146 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0b013e328308b300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish an optimal age threshold for endoscopy referral in patients with simple uninvestigated dyspepsia in the setting of European developing country (Bosnia and Herzegovina) with low availability and high workload of endoscopy units. METHODS We reviewed patient information on all upper endoscopies performed during a 6-year period (2000-2005). Different age thresholds were evaluated in terms of their predictive power for absence of malignancy. RESULTS A total of 82 of 4403 (1.86%) dyspeptic patients had upper gastrointestinal (GI) malignancy. Age cutoffs of 40 years for men and 45 years for women had the best predictive power, without any cases of upper GI malignancies below those thresholds. Age cutoffs of 45 years for men and 50 years for women also had excellent negative predictive values (99.7 and 99.9%, respectively) with 1.45 and 0.98 cases of missed upper GI malignancies per 1000 endoscopies, respectively. A total of 1709 of 4403 (38.8%) of endoscopies might have been avoided in men of less than 45 and women of less than 50 with uninvestigated dyspepsia. CONCLUSION (i) Age thresholds for endoscopy referral are lower than in Western countries and should be different for men and women. (ii) Cutoff values of 40 and 45 years for men and women, respectively, are completely safe to use. (iii) Thresholds of 45 years for males and 50 years for females have a small level of risk of missing upper GI malignancy, but are acceptable to use in areas of low availability of endoscopy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Dyspepsia is a global problem and the management of the condition remains a considerable burden on health care resources. Many countries have adopted evidence-based guidelines for the management of the condition, in an attempt to reduce health care expenditure. This article compares and contrasts dyspepsia management guidelines from several geographical regions. METHODS We obtained current guidelines from five regions and examined composition of guideline development groups, methodology involved, definition of dyspepsia utilized, and recommendations in terms of first-line approach, age cutoff for prompt upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, and subsequent role of endoscopy. RESULTS All guidelines carried out extensive reviews of the literature to inform their recommendations. The majority used a definition of dyspepsia in line with the Rome criteria. All agreed that alarm symptoms at any age warranted prompt endoscopy, and most recommended an age cutoff of between 50 and 55 years for endoscopy as an initial management strategy. In young patients without alarm symptoms, either 'test and treat' or empirical acid suppression were the initial management strategies of choice in all cases, with only one guideline recommending mandatory endoscopy in those whose symptoms failed to settle after this approach. CONCLUSIONS Despite varying composition of guideline development groups and the different geographical regions, the recommendation of all the guidelines were remarkably similar, reflecting the quality of research conducted by the GI community as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander C Ford
- Department of Academic Medicine, St. James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK.
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Tsao GJ, Tsang MW, Mobley BC, Cheng WW. Foramen magnum meningioma: Dysphagia of atypical etiology. J Gen Intern Med 2008; 23:206-9. [PMID: 18080720 PMCID: PMC2359174 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-007-0474-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2007] [Revised: 09/20/2007] [Accepted: 11/05/2007] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We present a case of a foramen magnum meningioma that highlights the importance of the neurologic exam when evaluating a patient with dysphagia. A 58-year-old woman presented with an 18-month history of progressive dysphagia, chronic cough and 30-pound weight loss. Prior gastroenterologic and laryngologic workup was unrevealing. RESULTS Her neurologic examination revealed an absent gag reflex, decreased sensation to light touch on bilateral distal extremities, hyperreflexia, and tandem gait instability. Repeat esophagogastroduodenoscopy was normal, whereas laryngoscopy and video fluoroscopy revealed marked hypopharyngeal dysfunction. Brain magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a 3.1 x 2.7 x 2.9 cm foramen magnum mass consistent with meningioma. The patient underwent neurosurgical resection of her mass with near complete resolution of her neurologic symptoms. Pathology confirmed diagnosis of a WHO grade I meningothelial meningioma. CONCLUSION CNS pathology is an uncommon but impressive cause of dysphagia. Our case demonstrates the importance of a thorough neurologic survey when evaluating such a patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel J Tsao
- School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Vakil N, Moayyedi P, Fennerty MB, Talley NJ. Limited value of alarm features in the diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal malignancy: systematic review and meta-analysis. Gastroenterology 2006; 131:390-401; quiz 659-60. [PMID: 16890592 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2006.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2005] [Accepted: 04/12/2006] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Alarm features such as dysphagia, weight loss, or anemia raise concern of an upper gastrointestinal malignancy in patients with dyspepsia. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of alarm features in predicting malignancy by performing a metaanalysis based on the published literature. METHODS English-language studies were identified by searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, and CINAHL. Cohort studies that measured alarm features and compared them with the endoscopic findings were included. Studies were screened for inclusion by 2 authors who independently extracted the data. Sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios were calculated by comparing the alarm feature with the endoscopic diagnosis. The summary receiver operating characteristic curve method was used to summarize test characteristics across studies. Individual alarm features were also assessed when the study report permitted. RESULTS Eighty-three of 2600 studies met the initial screening criteria; 15 met inclusion criteria after detailed review. These 15 studies evaluated a total of 57,363 patients, of whom 458 (.8%) had cancer. The sensitivity of alarm symptoms varied from 0% to 83% with considerable heterogeneity between studies. The specificity also varied significantly from 40% to 98%. A clinical diagnosis made by a physician was very specific (range, 97%-98%) but not very sensitive (range, 11%-53%). CONCLUSIONS Alarm features have limited predictive value for an underlying malignancy. Their use in dyspepsia management strategies needs further refinement and study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimish Vakil
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin 53233, USA.
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Vallot T, Merrouche M. [Diagnosis of dysphagia with no apparent cause]. GASTROENTEROLOGIE CLINIQUE ET BIOLOGIQUE 2006; 30:399-407. [PMID: 16633305 DOI: 10.1016/s0399-8320(06)73194-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Thierry Vallot
- Hépato-Gastroentérologie, CHU Bichat-Claude Bernard, Paris
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Varadarajulu S, Eloubeidi MA, Patel RS, Mulcahy HE, Barkun A, Jowell P, Libby E, Schutz S, Nickl NJ, Cotton PB. The yield and the predictors of esophageal pathology when upper endoscopy is used for the initial evaluation of dysphagia. Gastrointest Endosc 2005; 61:804-8. [PMID: 15933679 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5107(05)00297-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The utility of EGD when used as an initial test for the evaluation of dysphagia is unclear. The objective was to determine the yield and the predictive factors of significant pathology when EGD is performed as the initial test to evaluate dysphagia. METHODS This is a retrospective analysis of a computerized database. Data on patients who underwent EGD for dysphagia were retrieved from the endoscopy database of 6 endoscopy units. Patients who had undergone prior esophageal evaluation, failed EGD, or who had a history of prior upper-GI pathology were excluded. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate any relation between endoscopic findings and presenting clinical features. RESULTS A total of 1649 patients with dysphagia (mean age 56.7 years, standard deviation 16.4; M:F 3:2) were analyzed. Abnormal findings at EGD were found in 70% (1150) of the patients, and a major pathology was seen in 54% (898). Male gender (p=0.0001), heartburn (p=0.0007), and odynophagia (p=0.0001) predicted the presence of major pathology. Cancer was found in 4% (70) of patients and was predicted by male gender (p=0.0002), age (p=0.01), and weight loss (p=0.04). The esophagus was normal in 29% (483) of patients and was predicted by female gender (p=0.0001) and the absence of heartburn (p=0.0004) but not age. There was a lack of details on patients' presentation and clinical history and an absence of long-term clinical follow-up. CONCLUSIONS EGD is an effective and an appropriate tool for the initial evaluation of patients presenting with dysphagia. Early EGD should be considered, particularly, in male patients aged more than 40 years old who concomitantly report heartburn, odynophagia, or weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Varadarajulu
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 410 LHRB, 701 19th Street S, Birmingham, AL 35294-0007, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Dyspepsia is common in gastric cancer, but also in many benign conditions. European Helicobacter pylori Study Group and American Gastroenterological Association guidelines recommend endoscopy in dyspepsia for patients with alarm symptoms or at age >45 years. However, recommendations are controversial. AIM To investigate whether criteria for endoscopy in patients with dyspepsia are adequate to detect gastric cancer. METHODS In 215 patients at initial diagnosis of gastric adenocarcinoma, symptoms were classified as alarm and non-alarm. Cases were staged according to the TNM system. Stages T(1)-T(3)N(x)M(0) were defined as potentially curable. RESULTS Dyspepsia was present in 128 patients. Among patients with dyspepsia, 15 were < or =45 years and 41 denied alarm symptoms. The combination of both criteria excluded only three (2.3%) patients from endoscopy, but increasing the threshold to >50 and >55 years would have raised the rate of excluded patients to seven (5.5%) and 11 (8.6%). Only 53 potentially curable stages and 18 early gastric cancers occurred, but the tumour stage was not associated with dyspepsia duration, age threshold of 45 years, or alarm symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Our results support current European Helicobacter Study Group and American Gastroenterological Association criteria for endoscopy in patients with dyspepsia to detect gastric cancer. Regardless, most cancers are advanced at detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Schmidt
- Department of Gastroenterology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang In Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yong-Dong Severance Hospital, Korea.
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Fransen GAJ, Janssen MJR, Muris JWM, Laheij RJF, Jansen JBMJ. Meta-analysis: the diagnostic value of alarm symptoms for upper gastrointestinal malignancy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2004; 20:1045-52. [PMID: 15569106 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2004.02251.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the advent of empirical treatment strategies for patients with dyspeptic symptoms, it becomes increasingly important to select patients with a high risk of having cancer for immediate endoscopy. Usually alarming symptoms are used for this matter, but their diagnostic value is by no means clear. AIM To investigate the diagnostic value of alarm symptoms for upper gastrointestinal malignancy. METHODS Meta-analysis of studies describing prevalence of alarm symptoms in patients with and without endoscopically verified upper gastrointestinal malignancy were identified through a Medline search. The prevalence, pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated. RESULTS About 17 case studies and nine cohort studies were selected. The mean prevalence of gastrointestinal malignancies in the cohort studies was 2.8% of 16,161 patients. Five cohort studies indicated that 25% of the patients diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal malignancy had no alarm symptoms. The pooled sensitivities of individual alarm symptoms varied from 9 to 41%, the pooled positive predictive value ranged from 4.6 to 7.9%, and was 5.9% for 'having any alarm symptom'. The pooled negative predictive value was 99.4% for 'having any alarm symptom'. CONCLUSION The risk of upper gastrointestinal malignancy in any individual without alarm symptoms is very low, but approximately one in four patients with upper gastrointestinal cancer have no alarm symptoms at the time of diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A J Fransen
- Department of General Practice, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Bersani G, Rossi A, Suzzi A, Ricci G, De Fabritiis G, Alvisi V. Comparison between the two systems to evaluate the appropriateness of endoscopy of the upper digestive tract. Am J Gastroenterol 2004; 99:2128-35. [PMID: 15554991 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2004.40078.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic performance of the two systems for the evaluation of the appropriateness of upper digestive endoscopy suggested by the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and by the European Panel on the Appropriateness of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (EPAGE). METHODS Patients referred for the upper digestive endoscopy (EGD) to a University Outpatients Clinic of Northeastern Italy were consecutively included in this prospective observational study. Before the EGD, the endoscopist assigned the patients to one of the ASGE appropriateness classes; another endoscopist then identified the detailed clinical scenario for the patients, which corresponds to scenarios examined by EPAGE by using a nine-point scale: 1-3 inappropriate; 4-6 uncertain; and 7-9 appropriate. The relationship between the appropriateness of use and the presence of relevant endoscopic lesions (neoplasms, ulcers, esophagitis, erosive gastritis/duodenitis, stenosis, and varices) was assessed, calculating the sensitivity and the specificity for each of the ASGE criteria, and each of the EPAGE scores, and plotting them to form a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) provides a summary measure of test performance, and can vary from a minimum of 0.5 to a maximum of 1.0. We compared the AUC of the ROC curve derived from the ASGE criteria against that derived from the EPAGE criteria. RESULTS A total of 2,300 consecutive patients were included in the study (42% men; mean age: 57.3; range: 12-99); comparison of appropriateness criteria according to the ASGE and EPAGE could be made for 2,000 patients. The AUC of the ROC curve derived from the ASGE criteria was 0.553 (95% CI: 0.527-0.579), significantly higher than the AUC of the ROC curve derived from the EPAGE score: 0.523 (95% CI: 0.497-0.549; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS We suggest that the diagnostic yield for relevant endoscopic findings obtained by both the systems (ASGE and EPAGE) is low; slightly better results could be accomplished by the ASGE criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Bersani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endoscopy Malatesta Novello Cesena, Post-Graduate School of Gastroenterology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Laheij RJF, van Rossum LGM, Heinen N, Jansen JBMJ. Long-term follow-up of empirical treatment or prompt endoscopy for patients with persistent dyspeptic symptoms? Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2004; 16:785-9. [PMID: 15256981 DOI: 10.1097/01.meg.0000108366.19243.3a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are concerns about the safety and possible high costs of ongoing proton pump inhibitor therapy of empirical management strategies for patients with persistent dyspeptic symptoms. AIM To compare the long-term results of two treatment strategies: empirical treatment followed by the Helicobacter pylori test and treat strategy (treat and test group) and prompt upper gastrointestinal endoscopy followed by directed medical treatment (endoscopy group). METHODS In this study we describe the long-term follow-up data from a previously published randomized clinical trial. At least 6 years after randomization all participating general practitioners and patients were asked to give information about medication use, diagnostic testing, symptoms and quality of life by questionnaire. RESULTS Information about a total of 77 out of the 80 patients initially included (96%) was retrieved. Overall, 16 patients from the treat and test group (41%) underwent 18 diagnostic investigations. The 34 patients (100%) from the endoscopy group underwent 38 investigations (P < 0.01). The number of patients of the treat and test group and endoscopy group using acid inhibition therapy was 15 (38%) and 19 (56%), respectively (P = 0.14). There were also no differences in symptom prevalence and quality of life between the groups. CONCLUSIONS Treat and test management for patients with dyspeptic symptoms is safe and does not lead to additional diagnostic testing or use of medication when compared to prompt endoscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J F Laheij
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Van Kouwen MCA, Drenth JPH, Verhoeven HMJM, Bos LP, Engels LGJB. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in patients aged 85 years or more. Results of a feasibility study in a district general hospital. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2003; 37:45-50. [PMID: 12849072 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-4943(03)00004-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We performed a cross sectional analysis of the feasibility and yield of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGE) in a cohort of patients aged 85 years or more. The study involved 218 patients who underwent diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in a district general hospital between 1994 and 1998. Indication, use of sedation, endoscopic findings and treatment after endoscopy were evaluated. Indications for gastroscopy were suspicious of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGI) bleeding (41%), anemia (15%), and presence of dyspeptic- (31%), alarm- (9%) and/or reflux symptoms (3%). Serious UGI disease (cancer, peptic ulcer, reflux oesofagitis and/or erosive gastritis/duodenitis) was detected in 97 patients (44%). With respect to clinical presentation, serious UGI disease was present in 61% with bleeding, in 57% with reflux symptoms, in 42% with alarm symptoms, in 33% with anemia and in 28% with dyspepsia. Carcinoma was detected in eight patients (3.8%), all of them were treated with supportive care. In very old people gastroscopy is generally performed on sound indications reveals serious UGI disease in almost one out of two patients, markedly influences medical treatment, and reveals low malignancy rates (3.8%). In these patients, UGE is worthwhile and should not be omitted because of age considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariëtte C A Van Kouwen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center St. Radboud, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Kamha A, Al Kaabi S, Sattar HA. Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) Doha, Qatar: A one-year survey. Qatar Med J 2003. [DOI: 10.5339/qmj.2003.1.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a common problem and is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Between June 1999 to May 2000 eight hundred and sixty patients were admitted to the Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hamad Medical Corporation, 102 of whom (11.8%) were admitted with a diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The most common nationality was Qatari (42.2%) and the most common age group was between 50-60years old (28.4%). The most frequent cause of bleeding was peptic ulcer disease (50 patients) followed by variceal bleeding. Our results are compatible with other reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Kamha
- **Department of Medical Intensive Care Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - S. Al Kaabi
- *Department of Medicine and Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - H. A. Sattar
- *Department of Medicine and Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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Korstanje A, den Hartog G, Biemond I, Lamers CBHW. The serological gastric biopsy: a non-endoscopical diagnostic approach in management of the dyspeptic patient: significance for primary care based on a survey of the literature. Scand J Gastroenterol 2003:22-6. [PMID: 12408500 DOI: 10.1080/003655202320621418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Measurement of the serum concentration of the secretory products of the gastric mucosa, pepsinogen A (PgA), pepsinogen C (PgC) and gastrin is called the serological gastric biopsy. Additional measurement of Helicobacter pylori antibodies and antibodies to parietal cells and intrinsic factor supports the non-invasive diagnostic value of the serum markers. In many clinical studies, the diagnostic potential of the serum markers in predicting the topography and severity of gastric mucosal disorders has been established. The aim was to assess the diagnostic value of the serological gastric biopsy for primary care. METHOD Survey of the literature. RESULTS The cell-physiological background of the serological gastric biopsy, the interpretation of the outcome of serum markers and the relation of these parameters to various gastric mucosal disorders are described. Measurement of PgA is a reliable way to discriminate between mucosal gastritis and functional dyspepsia. PgA is raised in duodenal, gastric and pyloric ulcer even though gastrin is normal. Both PgA and gastrin are raised in renal insufficiency and the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. A low PgA is indicative of mucosal atrophy and a good indicator for gastric hypoacidity. An additional low PgA:C ratio is indicative of atrophic gastritis or extensive intestinal metaplasia of the stomach. A hypopepsinogenaemia can also be an alarm symptom for gastric cancer. A low PgA and a high gastrin is indicative of corpus atrophy. CONCLUSION In primary care, the serological gastric biopsy might be a feasible and appropriate diagnostic method for management of the dyspeptic patient. Further research in general practice has to be done to validate the predictive value of the serological gastric biopsy and to define a diagnostic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Korstanje
- Dept of Gastroenterology, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands
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Fox MR, Harris AW. An assessment of open access referral for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in a district general hospital. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2002; 14:1245-9. [PMID: 12439120 DOI: 10.1097/00042737-200211000-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the indications, technical success and outcomes of open access percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) insertion in the district general hospital setting. DESIGN This study was a retrospective audit of patients receiving PEG by the thread pull method from November 1998 to November 1999, followed by a prospective audit of patients receiving PEG from December 1999 to May 2000. Prophylactic antibiotics were not used. Patient data were collected using a computerized endoscopy unit record system. Clinical assessment was performed and case notes were reviewed. Whenever necessary, telephone follow-up of patients in the community was performed. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-five consecutive, unselected patients underwent PEG and 64 were followed up for a total of 7799 patient days. Fifty-seven of 64 (89%) were in-patients. The median age of the patients was 74 years (range, 26-95 years). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Indications, technical success, early complications and long-term outcomes of PEG. RESULTS Cerebrovascular disease was the most common indication for PEG (35/64 (55%)). Technical success was achieved in 62/64 (97%) patients. No serious complications from the procedure were reported: PEG site infection was rare (1/64). Pneumonia was uncommon (8/64 (12.5%)). There were eight (12.5%) deaths during the first week after PEG insertion and 18/64 (28%) during the first month. Mortality at 1 year was 36/64 (56%). Ten of 64 patients (16%) recovered to PEG removal; 18 (28%) continue to be fed via PEG. CONCLUSION This audit demonstrates that referral patterns, technical success and long-term outcome of open access referral for PEG in a district general hospital setting are consistent with published series from specialist and tertiary referral centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark R Fox
- Kent & Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells TN4 8AT, UK.
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Parente F, Bargiggia S, Bianchi Porro G. Prospective audit of gastroscopy under the 'three-day rule': a regional initiative in Italy to reduce waiting time for suspected malignancy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2002; 16:1011-4. [PMID: 11966511 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.2002.01241.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A regional initiative, called the 'three-day rule', has recently been introduced in Italy to facilitate the earlier diagnosis of malignancy. It requires patients with suspected severe diseases to have a diagnostic procedure performed within three working days of referral by a general practitioner. AIM To assess prospectively the effectiveness and compliance with the three-day rule for upper digestive malignancies. METHODS We compared patients referred for gastroscopy under the three-day rule initiative with contemporaneous open access referrals over a 12-month period at a single large teaching hospital in west Milan. We compared the prevalence of malignancies and other serious non-neoplastic diseases as well as the waiting times in the two groups. The appropriateness of the indications for each referral was also reviewed by a gastroenterologist blind to the outcome of the test. RESULTS One hundred and forty-two patients referred for gastroscopy under the three-day rule scheme and 767 routine referrals were studied. Significantly more oesophageal/gastric cancers (6% vs. 1%) and serious benign gastrointestinal lesions (grade II-III oesophagitis or peptic ulcer) were diagnosed in three-day rule patients in comparison with routine referrals (P < 0.05). The rate of inappropriate referral was significantly lower in the three-day rule group than in the open access group (39% vs. 22%) (P < 0.01). The estimated cost of the three-day rule scheme (in extra list examinations alone) was 10 780 euros, with about 1198 euros per diagnosis of cancer, but only 229.5 euros per 'useful' diagnosis (including peptic ulcer disease and oesophagitis). CONCLUSIONS Significantly more upper gastrointestinal cancers and serious benign diseases can be found within a short period to comply with the three-day rule scheme. However, some general practitioners appear to over-interpret alarm symptoms, leading to some inappropriate referrals. Better awareness of appropriate urgent referral criteria is needed in order to ensure that the best use is made of the resources available.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Parente
- Department of Gastroenterology, L. Sacco University Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Westbrook JI, McIntosh JH, Duggan JM. Accuracy of provisional diagnoses of dyspepsia in patients undergoing first endoscopy. Gastrointest Endosc 2001; 53:283-8. [PMID: 11231384 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5107(01)70399-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed agreement between provisional and endoscopic diagnoses for patients with dyspepsia undergoing initial endoscopy, and examined variation between clinicians at 2 hospitals. METHODS This was a retrospective review of 423 consecutive patients. RESULTS Crude percentage agreement ranged from 55% to 97%. Kappa scores revealed poor agreement: peptic ulcers (0.11: 95% CI [0.05, 0.17]); gastroesophageal reflux disease (0.29: 95% CI [0.20, 0.38]); benign esophageal stricture (0.33: 95% CI [0.08, 0.58]); and cancer (0.12: 95% CI [-0.12, 0.36]). Positive and negative predictive values for cancer and benign esophageal stricture showed that agreement for a negative diagnosis was almost perfect, whereas agreement for a positive diagnosis was low. Only 17% of patients with cancer were given an accurate provisional diagnosis. Accuracy of diagnosis did not vary substantially between hospitals. CONCLUSIONS Crude percentage agreement is misleading. Emphasis should be placed on better prediction of cancer, benign esophageal stricture, and peptic ulcer disease. Accuracy of provisional diagnosis in everyday practice is no worse than that found in prospective studies in which clinicians knew a priori that diagnoses would be scrutinized. The difficulty of predicting diagnoses supports increased reliance on endoscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J I Westbrook
- School of Health Information Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, and Princeton Medical Centre, Hamilton, Newcastle, Australia
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Froehlich F, Repond C, Müllhaupt B, Vader JP, Burnand B, Schneider C, Pache I, Thorens J, Rey JP, Debosset V, Wietlisbach V, Fried M, Dubois RW, Brook RH, Gonvers JJ. Is the diagnostic yield of upper GI endoscopy improved by the use of explicit panel-based appropriateness criteria? Gastrointest Endosc 2000; 52:333-41. [PMID: 10968846 DOI: 10.1067/mge.2000.107906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing the appropriateness of use of upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is important to improve quality of care while at the same time containing costs. This study explored whether detailed explicit appropriateness criteria significantly improve the diagnostic yield of upper GI endoscopy. METHODS Consecutive patients referred for upper GI endoscopy at 6 centers (1 university hospital, 2 district hospitals, 3 gastroenterology practices) were prospectively included over a 6-month period. After controlling for disease presentation and patient characteristics, the relationship between the appropriateness of upper GI endoscopy, as assessed by explicit Swiss criteria developed by the RAND/UCLA panel method, and the presence of relevant endoscopic lesions was analyzed. RESULTS A total of 2088 patients (60% outpatients, 57% men) were included. Analysis was restricted to the 1681 patients referred for diagnostic upper GI endoscopy. Forty-six percent of upper GI endoscopies were judged to be appropriate, 15% uncertain, and 39% inappropriate by the explicit criteria. No cancer was found in upper GI endoscopies judged to be inappropriate. Upper GI endoscopies judged appropriate or uncertain yielded significantly more relevant lesions (60%) than did those judged to be inappropriate (37%; odds ratio 2.6: 95% CI [2.2, 3.2]). In multivariate analyses, the diagnostic yield of upper GI endoscopy was significantly influenced by appropriateness, patient gender and age, treatment setting, and symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Upper GI endoscopies performed for appropriate indications resulted in detecting significantly more clinically relevant lesions than did those performed for inappropriate indications. In addition, no upper GI endoscopy that resulted in a diagnosis of cancer was judged to be inappropriate. The use of such criteria improves patient selection for upper GI endoscopy and can thus contribute to efforts aimed at enhancing the quality and efficiency of care. (Gastrointest Endosc 2000;52:333-41).
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Affiliation(s)
- F Froehlich
- Department of Gastroenterology, Medical Outpatient Department PMU/CHUV, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Staff DM, Saeian K, Rochling F, Narayanan S, Kern M, Shaker R, Hogan WJ. Does open access endoscopy close the door to an adequately informed patient? Gastrointest Endosc 2000; 52:212-7. [PMID: 10922093 DOI: 10.1067/mge.2000.107719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of open access endoscopy is increasing. Its effect on the adequacy of patient informed consent, procedure acceptance and the impact on subsequent communication/transfer of procedure results to the patient have not been evaluated. The aim of our study was to compare the extent of preknowledge of procedures and test explanation, patient medical complexity, information transfer and overall patient satisfaction between a patient group referred for outpatient open access endoscopy versus a patient group from a gastrointestinal (GI) subspecialty clinic. METHODS Information was obtained from all patients presenting for outpatient upper and lower endoscopy by using a 1-page questionnaire. Patients from the two groups who had an outpatient upper/lower endoscopic procedure were contacted by phone after the procedure to obtain information with a standardized questionnaire. RESULTS The open access patients reported receiving significantly less information to help them identify the procedure (p < 0.01) and less explanation concerning the nature of the procedure than the group of patients referred from the subspecialty clinic (p < 0.005). There was no difference between the two groups in satisfaction scores for examinations performed under conscious sedation. For flexible sigmoidoscopy without sedation, however, the GI clinic patient group were more satisfied with their procedure. The majority of patients, regardless of access, were more likely to receive endoscopic results from a gastroenterologist than the referring physician. Furthermore, the patients in the GI clinic group who underwent colonoscopy felt significantly better at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Patients undergoing open access procedures are less likely to be properly informed about their endoscopic procedure. Our results indicate that with open access endoscopy, a defined mechanism needs to be in place for communication of endoscopic results to the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Staff
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The aim of this study was to use a large national endoscopic database to determine why routine endoscopy is performed in diverse practice settings. METHODS A computerized endoscopic report generator was developed and disseminated to gastrointestinal (GI) specialists in diverse practice settings. After reports were generated, a data file was transmitted electronically to a central databank, where data were merged from multiple sites for analysis. RESULTS From April 1, 1997, to October 28, 1998, 276 physicians in 31 practice sites in 21 states provided 18,444 esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) reports, 20,748 colonoscopy reports, and 9767 flexible sigmoidoscopy reports to the central databank. EGD was most commonly performed to evaluate dyspepsia and/or abdominal pain (23.7%), dysphagia (20%), symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux without dysphagia (17%), and suspected upper GI bleeding (16.3%). Colonoscopy was most often performed for surveillance of prior neoplasia (24%) and evaluation of hematochezia (19%) or positive fecal occult blood test (15%). Flexible sigmoidoscopy was most commonly performed for routine screening (40%) and evaluation of hematochezia (22%). There were significant differences between academic and nonacademic sites. CONCLUSIONS The endoscopic database can be an important resource for future research in endoscopy by documenting current practice patterns and changes in practice over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Lieberman
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon 97207, USA.
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Talley NJ, Axon A, Bytzer P, Holtmann G, Lam SK, Van Zanten S. Management of uninvestigated and functional dyspepsia: a Working Party report for the World Congresses of Gastroenterology 1998. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 1999; 13:1135-48. [PMID: 10468695 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.1999.00584.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of dyspepsia is controversial. METHODS An international Working Party was convened in 1998 to review management strategies for dyspepsia and functional dyspepsia, based on a review of the literature and best clinical practice. RESULTS Dyspepsia, defined as pain or discomfort centred in the upper abdomen, can be managed with reassurance and over-the-counter therapy if its duration is less than 4 weeks on initial presentation. For patients with chronic symptoms, clinical evaluation depends on alarm features including patient age. The age cut off selected should depend on the age specific incidence when gastric cancer begins to increase, but in Western nations 50 years is generally an acceptable age threshold. In younger patients without alarm features, Helicobacter pylori test and treatment is the approach recommended because of its value in eliminating the peptic ulcer disease diathesis. If, after eradication of H. pylori, symptoms either are not relieved or rapidly recur, then an empirical trial of therapy is recommended. Similarly, in H. pylori-negative patients without alarm features, an empirical trial (with antisecretory or prokinetic therapy depending on the predominant symptom) for up to 8 weeks is recommended. If drugs fail, endoscopy should be considered because of its reassurance value although the yield will be low. In older patients or those with alarm features, prompt endoscopy is recommended. If endoscopy is non-diagnostic, gastric biopsies are recommended to document H. pylori status unless already known. While treatment of H. pylori is unlikely to relieve the symptoms of functional dyspepsia, the long-term benefits probably outweigh the risks and treatment can be considered on a case-by-case basis. In H. pylori-negative patients with documented functional dyspepsia, antisecretory or prokinetic therapy, depending on the predominant symptom, is reasonable, assuming reassurance and explanation are insufficient, unless patients have already failed this approach. Other treatment options include antidepressants, antispasmodics, visceral analgesics such as serotonin type 3 receptor antagonists, and behavioural or psychotherapy although these are all of uncertain efficacy. Long-term drug treatment in functional dyspepsia should be avoided; intermittent short courses of treatment as needed is preferred. CONCLUSION The management of dyspepsia recommended is based on current best evidence but must be tailored to local factors such as practice setting, the background prevalence of H. pylori and structural disease, and costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Talley
- Department of Medicine, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Abstract
Dyspepsia and heartburn are the two cardinal symptoms of foregut dysfunction. When confronting such a problem, that physician must first learn to discern between the two, because treatment can be quite different for the conditions presenting with these symptoms. This article details the approach to work-up and treatment of patients presenting with dyspepsia or heartburn.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Ahmad
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, USA
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Kellow JE. Organic causes of dyspepsia, and discriminating functional from organic dyspepsia. BAILLIERE'S CLINICAL GASTROENTEROLOGY 1998; 12:477-87. [PMID: 9890083 DOI: 10.1016/s0950-3528(98)90019-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
A wide variety of disorders affecting the upper gastrointestinal tract, as well as systemic disorders, are associated with symptoms of dyspepsia. The more important of these conditions are considered in this chapter, with particular reference to their symptom patterns on presentation. The differentiation, on clinical grounds, between these organic causes of dyspepsia and functional dyspepsia remains an important area of research. Those aspects of the history and physical examination most relevant to this distinction are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Kellow
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, Australia
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Froehlich F, Pache I, Burnand B, Vader JP, Fried M, Beglinger C, Stalder G, Gyr K, Thorens J, Schneider C, Kosecoff J, Kolodny M, DuBois RW, Gonvers JJ, Brook RH. Performance of panel-based criteria to evaluate the appropriateness of colonoscopy: a prospective study. Gastrointest Endosc 1998; 48:128-36. [PMID: 9717777 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5107(98)70153-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prospective data describing the appropriateness of use of colonoscopy based on detailed panel-based clinical criteria are not available. METHODS In a cohort of 553 consecutive patients referred for colonoscopy to two university-based Swiss outpatient clinics, the percentage of patients who underwent colonoscopy for appropriate, equivocal, and inappropriate indications and the relationship between appropriateness of use and the presence of relevant endoscopic lesions was prospectively assessed. This assessment was based on criteria of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and explicit American and Swiss criteria developed in 1994 by a formal panel process using the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method. RESULTS The procedures were rated appropriate or equivocal in 72.2% by criteria of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, in 68.5% by explicit American criteria, and in 74.4% by explicit Swiss criteria (not statistically significant, NS). Inappropriate use (overuse) of colonoscopy was found in 27.8%, 31.5%, and 25.6%, respectively (NS). The proportion of appropriate procedures was higher with increasing age. Almost all reasons for using colonoscopy could be assessed by the two explicit criteria sets, whereas 28.4% of reasons for using colonoscopy could not be evaluated by the criteria of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (p < 0.0001). The probability of finding a relevant endoscopic lesion was distinctly higher in the procedures rated appropriate or equivocal than in procedures judged inappropriate. CONCLUSIONS The rate of inappropriate use of colonoscopy is substantial in Switzerland. Explicit criteria allow assessment of almost all indications encountered in clinical practice. In this study, all sets of appropriateness criteria significantly enhanced the probability of finding a relevant endoscopic lesion during colonoscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Froehlich
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
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Talley NJ, Silverstein MD, Agréus L, Nyrén O, Sonnenberg A, Holtmann G. AGA technical review: evaluation of dyspepsia. American Gastroenterological Association. Gastroenterology 1998; 114:582-95. [PMID: 9496950 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5085(98)70542-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 278] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- N J Talley
- Department of Medicine, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Australia
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Overuse of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in a country with open-access endoscopy: a prospective study in primary care. Gastrointest Endosc 1997. [PMID: 9013164 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5107(97)70330-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This prospective observational study was aimed at evaluating the appropriateness of use of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGE) in primary care in a country with open access to and high availability of the procedure. METHODS Outpatients were consecutively included in two clinical settings: Setting A (20 primary care physicians during 4 weeks) and B (university-based outpatient clinic during 3 weeks). In patients undergoing UGE, appropriateness of referral was judged by explicit Swiss criteria developed by the RAND/UCLA panel method. RESULTS Patient visits (8135) were assessed. Six hundred eleven patients complained of upper gastrointestinal symptoms. Physicians decided to perform UGE in 63 of these patients. Twenty-five (40%) of the endoscopies were rated appropriate, 7 (11%) equivocal, and 31 (49%) inappropriate. Overuse of UGE occurred in 5.1% (setting A: 4.7%; setting B:6.5%; p = 0.39) of the patients who presented with upper gastrointestinal symptoms. The decision to perform UGE in previously untreated dyspeptic patients was the most common clinical situation resulting in overuse. CONCLUSIONS Inappropriate use of UGE is high in Switzerland. However, to better reflect primary care decision making, overuse should be related not only to patients referred for a medical test, but also to the number of patients who complain of the symptoms that would be investigated by the procedure.
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Eckardt VF, Kanzler G. Appropriateness of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: are there geographic differences? Gastrointest Endosc 1996; 44:97-8. [PMID: 8836729 DOI: 10.1016/s0016-5107(96)70241-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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