Management of refractory typical GERD symptoms

Prevalence of functional esophageal disorders and associated clinical characteristics in patients with proton-pump-inhibitor-unresponsive reflux symptoms

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Patients with proton-pump-inhibitor (PPI)-unresponsive reflux symptoms, often caused by functional esophageal disorders (FED), are frequently encountered in clinical practice. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of FED and its associated clinical characteristics in patients with PPI-unresponsive reflux symptoms.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified patients who were evaluated for persistent typical reflux symptoms, despite ≥8 weeks of PPI treatment, at the National Taiwan University Hospital from 2014 to 2023. All patients underwent a comprehensive evaluation comprising validated gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptom questionnaires, 5-item Brief Symptom Rating Scale (BSRS-5), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), esophagogastroduodenoscopy, high-resolution impedance manometry, and 24-h impedance-pH monitoring off PPI therapy. Diagnosis of FED and non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) was based on the Rome IV criteria.

RESULTS

We analyzed 190 patients [46.8% male, median age 52 (interquartile range, 42-61) years], of whom 32 (16.8%) had NERD and 158 (83.2%) had FED (57.9% with functional heartburn and 25.3% with reflux hypersensitivity). Patients with FED had a lower body mass index than those with NERD and a higher prevalence of psychological comorbidities and poor sleep quality than healthy volunteers. The severity of reflux symptoms among FED patients was significantly associated with the severity of psychological comorbidities and sleep quality.

CONCLUSIONS

A notably high prevalence (83.2%) of FED was observed among patients experiencing PPI-unresponsive reflux symptoms. Patients with FED had a higher level of psychological distress and diminished sleep quality, both of which were associated with reflux symptom severity.

Efficacy of Shugan Hewei formula combined with rabeprazole in refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of the Chinese herbal medication Shugan Hewei formula (SHF) combined with rabeprazole in patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD).

METHOD

A total of 264 participants were randomly assigned to the treatment group (n = 132) receiving SHF granules (20 mg) combined with rabeprazole (10 mg) and the control group (n = 132) receiving placebo SHF granules (20 mg) combined with rabeprazole (20 mg). Both groups undergo 8 weeks of treatment and 2 weeks of follow-up.

RESULTS

The treatment group showed higher total clinical symptom efficacy and lower total symptom scores compared to the control group. The treatment group was superior to the control group in reducing rGERD major symptom scores, including heartburn, retrosternal pain, regurgitation and belching, and acid regurgitation. Additionally, treatment group (Z = 8.169, P < 0.001) and control group (Z = 9.800, P < 0.001) treatments were all significantly attenuated esophageal inflammation, demonstrating comparable efficacy. Patients with esophagitis grade A decreased from 40.34% to 17.23%, and those with grade B decreased from 11.76% to 3.78% in the treatment group. The results of the SF-36 scale showed that combination therapy was more effective in improving role limitations due to physical health, vitality, general health, total somato-physical health, and psychiatric mental health.

CONCLUSION

Our study reveals that the combined treatment of SHF with rabeprazole is more efficacious in managing patients with rGERD when contrasted with sole rabeprazole treatment.

Laparoscopic floppy Nissen fundoplication with valve calibration: a safe and efficient procedure

PURPOSES

A floppy Nissen fundoplication with valve calibration (FNF-VC) performed by laparotomy has been described, to reduce postoperative dysphagia and gas bloating after 360°-fundoplication. As laparoscopy is the gold standard for fundoplication, this study reports the first results of a modified FNF-VC adapted for laparoscopy (LFNF).

METHODS

Seventy-two consecutive patients, who underwent LFNF for refractory GERD between 2012 and 2021, were included. Postoperative outcomes and quality of life (QoL) by GERSS, GERD-HRQL, and GIQLI scores before and after surgery were assessed.

RESULTS

The main symptoms were pyrosis (81%), regurgitation (39%), Ear-Nose-Throat symptoms (22%), and thoracic pain (24%). Hiatal hernia was present in 85% (n = 61) of the patients. There was no postoperative mortality, and the severe postoperative morbidity rate (Dindo-Clavien ≥ III) was 6%. After a median follow-up of 3.6 years, only 8% of patients were still taking proton-pump inhibitors. Long-term residual dysphagia was noted in 15% of the patients, but none required reoperation or interventional endoscopic procedures. QoL improved, with a significant reduction in GERSS and GERD-HRQL scores and a postoperative GIQLI of 101.75 (75-117.5).

CONCLUSION

This series reports the safety and efficacy of an FNF-VC adapted for laparoscopy to treat GERD with a limited rate of residual dysphagia.

A scientometrics analysis and visualization of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease

Background

Refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (refractory GERD) is a heterogeneous disease characterized by unresponsiveness or poor efficacy to proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). This chronic disorder substantially weakens patients' mental wellbeing and quality of life, increasing the financial burden on society. Multiple articles have been reported in this area. However, literature involving scientometric analysis of refractory GERD is absent. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the evolution of research themes and the main hotspots of refractory GERD through bibliometric methods.

Methods

All documents related to refractory GERD based on the WOS Core Collection from January 2000 to November 2023 were selected for analysis. Citespace V 6.1 R6, VOSviewer V 1.6.20, and Scimago Graphica V 1.0.38 were used to perform bibliometric analysis.

Results

We collected a total of 241 research articles from 36 countries and 322 institutions, contributed by over 1,000 authors. Over the last 20 years, the number of articles in this field has increased year by year, and since 2011, the number of publications has increased dramatically, with 85.89% of the papers. These countries are led by the United States and Japan. GUT had the highest number of citations and DIGESTION had the highest number of publications. Research on standardized diagnosis and management, mechanisms, novel monitoring methods, and innovative drugs and procedures for refractory GERD are the main topics and hotspots in this field. This study also found that neuroimmune interaction is closely related to refractory GERD, which may be a new direction for future mechanism research.

Conclusion

Our study is the first bibliometric analysis of the global literature on refractory GERD. This research provides valuable insights for researchers, enabling them to quickly understand the research frontier and hot topics of this field.

Causal effect between gut microbiota and gastroesophageal reflux disease: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study

Previous observational studies have found that the gut microbiota is closely related to the pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), while their causal relationship is unclear. A two-sample multivariate Mendelian randomization analysis was implemented to estimate the causal effect of gut microbiota on GERD. The gut microbiota aggregated statistics were derived from a meta-analysis of the largest available genome-wide association studies (GWAS) conducted by the MiBioGen alliance ( n  = 13 266). GERD aggregated statistics were derived from published GWAS (129 080 cases and 473 524 controls). A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study was conducted to explore the causal relationship between gut microbiota and GERD using the inverse variance weighted (IVW), Mendelian randomization Egger, single model, weighted median, and weighted model. To verify the stability of the main results of Mendelian randomization analysis, we performed sensitivity analysis. Based on the results of IVW, we found that Anaerostipes was causally associated with an increased risk of GERD [odds ratio (OR): 1.09, P  = 0.018]. Eight gut microbiota taxa ( Actinobacteria, Bifidobacteriales, Bifidobacteriaceae, Clostridiales vadin BB60 group, Rikenellaceae, Lachnospiraceae UCG004, Methanobrevibacter , and unknown genus id.1000000073 ) are predicted to act causally in suppressing the risk of GERD ( P  < 0.05). In addition, reverse Mendelian randomization analyses revealed that the abundance of 15 gut microbiota taxon was found to be affected by GERD. No significant estimation of heterogeneity or pleiotropy is detected. Our study presents a complicated causal relationship between gut microbiota and GERD that offers guidance on the selection of appropriate probiotics as clinical interventions for GERD.

Efficacy and safety of endoscopic cardia peripheral tissue scar formation (ECSF) for the treatment of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease: A systematic review with meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic treatment is increasingly used for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD). Unlike the mechanism of conventional surgical fundoplication, gastroesophageal junction ligation, anti-reflux mucosal intervention, and radiofrequency ablation have extremely similar anti-reflux mechanisms; hence, we collectively refer to them as endoscopic cardia peripheral tissue scar formation (ECSF). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the safety and efficacy of ECSF in treating rGERD.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search of several databases, including PubMed, Embase, Medline, China Knowledge Network, and Wanfang, to ensure a systematic approach for data collection between January 2011 and July 2023. Forest plots were used to summarize and combine the GERD-health-related quality of life (HRQL), gastroesophageal reflux questionnaire score, and DeMeester scores, acid exposure time, lower esophageal sphincter pressure, esophagitis, proton pump inhibitors use, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

This study comprised 37 studies, including 1732 patients. After ECSF, significant improvement in gastroesophageal reflux disease health-related quality of life score (mean difference [MD] = 18.27 95% CI: 14.81-21.74), gastroesophageal reflux questionnaire score (MD = 4.85 95% CI: 3.96-5.75), DeMeester score (MD = 42.34, 95% CI: 31.37-53.30), acid exposure time (MD = 7.98, 95% CI: 6.03-9.92), and lower esophageal sphincter pressure was observed (MD = -5.01, 95% CI: -8.39 to 1.62). The incidence of serious adverse effects after ECSF was 1.1% (95% CI: 0.9%-1.2%), and postoperatively, 67.4% (95% CI: 66.4%-68.2%) of patients could discontinue proton pump inhibitor-like drugs, and the treatment outcome was observed to be satisfactory in over 80% of the patients. Subgroup analyses of the various procedures showed that all 3 types improved several objective or subjective patient indicators.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the current meta-analysis, we conclude that rGERD can be safely and effectively treated with ECSF as an endoscopic procedure.

Latin American consensus on diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be challenging given varying symptom presentations, and complex multifactorial pathophysiology. The gold standard for GERD diagnosis is esophageal acid exposure time (AET) measured by pH-metry. A variety of additional diagnostic tools are available. The goal of this consensus was to assess the individual merits of GERD diagnostic tools based on current evidence, and provide consensus recommendations following discussion and voting by experts.

METHODS

This consensus was developed by 15 experts from nine countries, based on a systematic search of the literature, using GRADE (grading of recommendations, assessment, development and evaluation) methodology to assess the quality and strength of the evidence, and provide recommendations regarding the diagnostic utility of different GERD diagnosis tools, using AET as the reference standard.

KEY RESULTS

A proton pump inhibitor (PPI) trial is appropriate for patients with heartburn and no alarm symptoms, but nor for patients with regurgitation, chest pain, or extraesophageal presentations. Severe erosive esophagitis and abnormal reflux monitoring off PPI are clearly indicative of GERD. Esophagram, esophageal biopsies, laryngoscopy, and pharyngeal pH monitoring are not recommended to diagnose GERD. Patients with PPI-refractory symptoms and normal endoscopy require reflux monitoring by pH or pH-impedance to confirm or exclude GERD, and identify treatment failure mechanisms. GERD confounders need to be considered in some patients, pH-impedance can identify supragrastric belching, impedance-manometry can diagnose rumination.

CONCLUSIONS

Erosive esophagitis on endoscopy and abnormal pH or pH-impedance monitoring are the most appropriate methods to establish a diagnosis of GERD. Other tools may add useful complementary information.

Good clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. An expert review from the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología

INTRODUCTION

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very prevalent in the general population, with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, requiring accurate diagnosis and treatment.

AIM

The aim of this expert review is to establish good clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and personalized treatment of GERD.

METHODS

The good clinical practice recommendations were produced by a group of experts in GERD, members of the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología (AMG), after carrying out an extensive review of the published literature and discussing each recommendation at a face-to-face meeting. This document does not aim to be a clinical practice guideline with the methodology such a document requires.

RESULTS

Fifteen experts on GERD formulated 27 good clinical practice recommendations for recognizing the symptoms and complications of GERD, the rational use of diagnostic tests and medical treatment, the identification and management of refractory GERD, the overlap with functional disorders, endoscopic and surgical treatment, and GERD in the pregnant woman, older adult, and the obese patient.

CONCLUSIONS

An accurate diagnosis of GERD is currently possible, enabling the prescription of a personalized treatment in patients with this condition. The goal of the good clinical practice recommendations by the group of experts from the AMG presented in this document is to aid both the general practitioner and specialist in the process of accurate diagnosis and treatment, in the patient with GERD.

Psychological symptoms do not discriminate between reflux phenotypes along the organic-functional refractory GERD spectrum

OBJECTIVE

Historically, psychological processes are associated with disorders at the functional end of the gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) spectrum. However, recent research suggests that psychological symptoms are relevant across the entire GERD spectrum. We aim to investigate whether psychological symptoms are associated with reflux phenotype (True GERD, Borderline GERD, reflux hypersensitivity, functional heartburn) along the GERD spectrum in a cohort of refractory reflux patients.

DESIGN

Consecutive adult patients with refractory reflux symptoms underwent standard 24-hour pH-impedance monitoring and completed questionnaires assessing demographic, clinical and psychological information. Bayesian one-way analysis of variance assessed whether psychological variables differed across reflux phenotypes. Next, we applied multinomial and ordinal logistic regressions with clinical, demographic and psychological variables set as independent variables and reflux phenotype as the outcome variable. The complementary machine-learning approach entered all demographic, clinical and psychological variables into models, with reflux phenotype set nominally and ordinally. Cross-validated model performance was used to select the best model.

RESULTS

393 participants (mean (SD) age=48.5 (14.1); 60% female) were included. The Bayesian analyses found no difference in psychological variables across reflux phenotypes. Similarly, age, gender and proton pump inhibitor use were the only significant variables in the multinomial logistic regression and body mass index was significant in both regressions. Machine-learning analyses revealed poorly performing models with high misclassification rates (67-68%) in both models.

CONCLUSION

Psychological symptoms do not differ between nor predict reflux phenotype membership in refractory reflux patients. Findings suggest that psychological symptoms are relevant across the spectrum of GERD, rather than specific to functional oesophageal disorders.

Correlation between Psychosomatic Assessment, Heart Rate Variability, and Refractory GERD: A Prospective Study in Patients with Acid Reflux Esophagitis

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects a significant proportion of individuals, with life stress being a contributing factor. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between psychosomatic evaluations, heart rate variability (HRV), and GERD in a cohort of individuals. Additionally, the study aimed to analyze the sequencing changes following proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment and identify predictive factors associated with refractory GERD.

METHODS

A prospective cohort of 105 individuals with reflux esophagitis and a control group of 50 participants without acid reflux symptoms were enrolled. Psychosomatic evaluations, including GERDQ, GERDQLQ, RSI, BAI, BDI, and SSS-8, were assessed at baseline and during treatment. HRV parameters were also evaluated. Multivariate analysis was used to identify predictive factors for refractory GERD. PPIs were administered regularly for the initial 2 months and then used on-demand. Refractory GERD was defined as less than 50% improvement in symptom relief or GERDQLQ score ≥ 20 after 8 weeks of PPI treatment.

RESULTS

The GERD group had higher scores in all psychosomatic evaluations compared to the control group (all p-values < 0.001). There were no significant changes in any parameters of HRV before and after treatment in the GERD group. Strong and consistent correlations were observed between GERD symptoms and psychological scores (BAI, BDI, and SSS-8) across all time points (W0, W4, and W8). Sequential reductions in GERD symptom scores and psychosomatic evaluations were observed during the initial eight weeks of treatment. Higher GERDQ (≥10) and SSS-8 (≥12) scores were predictive of refractory GERD (p = 0.004 and p = 0.009, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This study emphasizes the importance of considering physiological and psychological factors in the management of GERD. Psychosomatic evaluations provide valuable insights for assessing and treating GERD patients. Integrating stress management and comprehensive assessments into personalized treatment strategies is crucial.

Esophageal chemical clearance and mucosa integrity values in refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease patients with different esophageal dynamics

OBJECTIVES

Esophageal post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index (PSPWI) and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI), novel impedance-based markers of reflux burden, are associated with esophageal dynamics. We aim to investigate the characteristics of PSPWI and MNBI in Chinese refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (RGERD) patients with different esophageal dynamic changes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

201 RGERD and 76 functional heartburn patients, undergone off-PPI endoscopy, esophageal manometry and impedance-pH monitoring, were included. Comparisons of conventional and novel impedance-pH metrics were made among different esophageal dynamics groups. Receiver operating-characteristic analyses were utilized to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of PSPWI and MNBI in differentiating abnormal esophageal dynamics. Correlations were used to investigate their associated factors.

RESULTS

PSPWI and MNBI of RGERD with esophagogastric junction (EGJ) injury and esophageal dysmotility were lower than EGJ injury alone or normal dynamics (p < 0.05 for both comparisons). PSPWI with esophageal peristalsis abnormality was lower than EGJ injury (p = 0.049), while MNBI showed no statistical difference. PSPWI, MNBI and their combination have auxiliary diagnostic values for esophageal peristalsis [area under the curves (AUCs): 0.683, 0.656, 0.708)] while only their combination for EGJ injury (AUC: 0.610). And they positively correlated with esophageal motility while negatively correlated with ineffective swallows and acid reflux events.

CONCLUSIONS

PSPWI and MNBI, indicating impairment of esophageal chemical clearance and mucosa integrity, were lower in RGERD patients with multiple esophageal dynamic injuries than single injuries or normal dynamics. Moreover, they provided useful contributing information for potential dynamic injuries if manometry has already been found normal or marginal.

Randomized clinical trial: A double-blind, proof-of-concept, phase 2 study evaluating the efficacy and safety of vonoprazan 20 or 40 mg versus esomeprazole 40 mg in patients with symptomatic gastro-esophageal reflux disease and partial response to a healing dose of a proton-pump inhibitor

BACKGROUND

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are cornerstone treatments for gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, evidence suggests that most patients exhibit partial response to PPIs, suggesting the need for novel therapies that can provide an improved and sustained increase in gastric pH.

AIMS

This study aimed to determine the effect of vonoprazan, a novel, orally active small-molecule potassium-competitive acid blocker, versus esomeprazole, a PPI, in preventing heartburn symptoms over a 4-week treatment period in patients with GERD and a partial response to esomeprazole treatment.

METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, proof-of-concept, phase 2 clinical trial was conducted between 2016 and 2018 at 39 sites across Europe and designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vonoprazan 20 mg once daily (q.d.) and 40 mg q.d. versus esomeprazole 40 mg q.d. after 1:1:1 randomization of symptomatic patients with GERD and a partial response to a healing dose of esomeprazole.

RESULTS

Overall, 256 eligible patients (female, 59.4%; mean age, 52.6 years) received vonoprazan 20 mg (n = 85), vonoprazan 40 mg (n = 85), or esomeprazole 40 mg (n = 86); mean (SD) percentages of heartburn-free 24-h periods during double-blind treatment were 36.7% (33.4%), 36.5% (35.6%), and 38.4% (34.8%), respectively, with no intergroup statistical significance. Vonoprazan exposure increased proportionally from the 20-mg to 40-mg dose (mean C_max : 23.3 ng/ml to 47.1 ng/ml, respectively). Most treatment-emergent adverse events were mild, with no deaths reported.

CONCLUSIONS

No statistically significant difference in efficacy and safety was observed among treatment groups, and vonoprazan was well tolerated. The trial is registered with the National Board of Health (EudraCT: 2015-001154-14) database.

Updates in interaction of gastroesophageal reflux disease and extragastroesophageal digestive diseases

INTRODUCTION

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the common chronic diseases with prevalence increasing in the last decades. Because of its prevalence and chronicity, GERD affects the quality of life and increases health-care costs. Gastroesophageal diseases leading to GERD have been thoroughly studied, while extragastroesophageal digestive diseases (EGEDDs) may coexist with GERD and affect the occurrence and persistence of GERD symptoms and therapeutic effect.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, we aim to summarize the EGEDDs correlated with GERD and explore the potential mechanisms of this interaction.

EXPERT OPINION

Individuals with troublesome GERD symptoms may have some common gastroesophageal etiologies, but EGEDDs may also overlap and impact on the progression of GERD, which are often ignored in clinic. The lesions in the small intestine, colon, and hepatobiliary tract as well as functional bowel disorders had positive or negative associations with GERD through potential mechanisms. These diseases aggravate GERD symptoms, increase the esophageal acid burden, cause esophageal hypersensitivity, and finally affect the response to therapy in GERD patients. Therefore, it is necessary to clear the interaction between GERD and EGEDDs and their mechanisms.

Concise Review: Applicability of High-resolution Manometry in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Manometry, particularly high-resolution manometry is the preferred diagnostic tool used to evaluate esophageal motor function. This investigation is strongly indicated in the setting of dysphagia, but is also useful in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), especially in case of failure of conventional treatment to exclude alternative diagnoses and prior to anti-reflux surgery. Moreover, ineffective esophagogastric junction barrier function and esophageal motor dysfunction are pathophysiological mechanisms in GERD and can be identified by manometry. The recent international guidelines have positioned high-resolution manometry as an important part of functional diagnostic work up in GERD in order to identify the GERD phenotype to guide specific treatment. The proposed manometric identification and measurement is based on the Chicago classification version 4.0 adding with new established metrics for GERD evaluation.

Clinical trial: a controlled trial of baclofen add-on therapy in PPI-refractory gastro-oesophageal reflux symptoms

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) have no effect on non-acid reflux events which can continue to provoke gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. Baclofen, a γ-aminobutyric acid agonist, can decrease non-acid reflux but its symptomatic benefit in refractory GERD symptoms is understudied.

AIMS

To assess the efficacy of baclofen 10 mg t.i.d. vs placebo as add-on therapy in PPI-refractory GERD symptoms, in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

METHODS

Patients with persisting typical GERD symptoms on b.i.d. PPI therapy were randomised to 4 weeks of baclofen 10 mg or placebo t.i.d. Before and after treatment, patients underwent 24 h impedance-pH monitoring on-PPI. Throughout the study, patients filled out ReQuest diaries. Data were analysed using mixed models.

RESULTS

About 60 patients were included (age 47.5 years [range 19-73], 41f/19 m), 31 patients were randomised to baclofen. One patient withdrew consent and five in the baclofen group stopped treatment due to side effects. There was a trend towards a better response for general wellbeing in the baclofen-treated group compared to placebo (p = 0.06). When subdividing patients according to symptom association probability (SAP), only the SAP+ (n = 25) group improved significantly with baclofen (p_corr  = 0.02), and worsened with placebo (p_corr  = 0.008). The total number of reflux events decreased over time (p = 0.01), mainly due to the baclofen condition (p_corr  = 0.1). The number of reflux events with a high proximal extent dropped significantly after baclofen (p_corr  = 0.009), but not placebo.

CONCLUSION

Baclofen decreases several reflux parameters in PPI refractory GERD symptoms, but pH-impedance monitoring is necessary before treatment as only SAP+ patients experience clinical benefit after 4 weeks.

EZH2-mediated suppression of CLDN1 leads to barrier dysfunction in PPI-refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

PPI-refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (RGERD) is characterized as the existence of reflux symptoms resistant to optimized PPI treatment. Alleviated mucosal integrity has been regarded as one of the mechanisms of RGERD.

METHODS

RNA sequencing analysis and GSEA were performed. Human biopsy samples, cell lines, and rat models were recruited. Trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) was tested and a FITC-dextran flux assay was performed to detect barrier permeability. Tissue morphology was evaluated using HE staining, while gene expression was measured by qRT-PCR, western blotting, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis.

RESULTS

The tight junction protein Claudin-1 is significantly weakened in the RGERD epithelium, while levels of EZH2-mediated H3K27me3 were increased. Forced EZH2 expression in epithelial cells led to H3K27me3 accumulation and Claudin-1 suppression, which consequently caused epithelial barrier dysfunction. Notably, studies on esophagogastroduodenal anastomosis (EGDA) rat models showed the attenuation of Claudin-1 level and barrier function could be rescued by an Ezh2 inhibitor GSK126. ChIP analysis followed by qPCR (ChIP-qPCR) revealed H3K27me3 suppressed CLDN1 via accumulating at the TSS area.

CONCLUSION

For the first time, we explored the attenuated tight junction of RGERD, demonstrating a potential underlying mechanism that EZH2-mediated H3K27me3 could impair esophageal epithelial barrier function by suppressing the transcription of CLDN1.

Thailand guideline 2020 for medical management of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most prevalent and bothersome functional gastrointestinal disorders worldwide, including in Thailand. After a decade of the first Thailand GERD guideline, physician and gastroenterologist encountered substantially increase of patients with GERD. Many of them are complicated case and refractory to standard treatment. Concurrently, the evolution of clinical characteristics as well as the progression of investigations and treatment have developed and changed tremendously. As a member of Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which are developing countries, we considered that the counterbalance between advancement and sufficient economy is essential in taking care of patients with GERD. We gather physicians from university hospitals, as well as internist and general practitioners who served in rural area, to make a consensus in this updated version of GERD guideline focusing in medical management of GERD. This clinical practice guideline was constructed adhering with standard procedure. We categorized the guideline in to four parts including definition, investigation, treatment, and long-term follow up. We anticipate that this guideline would improve physicians' proficiency and help direct readers to choose investigations and treatments in patients with GERD wisely. Moreover, we wish that this guideline would be applicable in countries with limited resources as well.

ACG Clinical Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) continues to be among the most common diseases seen by gastroenterologists, surgeons, and primary care physicians. Our understanding of the varied presentations of GERD, enhancements in diagnostic testing, and approach to patient management have evolved. During this time, scrutiny of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has increased considerably. Although PPIs remain the medical treatment of choice for GERD, multiple publications have raised questions about adverse events, raising doubts about the safety of long-term use and increasing concern about overprescribing of PPIs. New data regarding the potential for surgical and endoscopic interventions have emerged. In this new document, we provide updated, evidence-based recommendations and practical guidance for the evaluation and management of GERD, including pharmacologic, lifestyle, surgical, and endoscopic management. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system was used to evaluate the evidence and the strength of recommendations. Key concepts and suggestions that as of this writing do not have sufficient evidence to grade are also provided.

Magnetic sphincter augmentation in treating refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

In this systematic review and meta-analysis we aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) in the management of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD).

METHODS

Literature search was conducted in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, OpenGrey and ClincalTrials.gov for single-arm studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of MSA in rGERD or comparative studies with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) serving as the control published until April 2020. Primary outcome was the rate of postoperative PPI use, and secondary outcomes included postoperative GERD-health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL), normalization of acid exposure time (AET) and incidence of procedure-related adverse events (AE).

RESULTS

Ten single-arm studies, one randomized controlled trial and three cohort studies involving 1138 participants were included. Post-MSA PPI withdrawal, significant GERD-HRQL improvement and AET normalization were achieved in 87.0%, 88.0% and 75.0% of the patients, respectively. The incidence of postoperative dysphagia was 29% and endoscopic dilation was required in 7.4% of patients undergoing MSA. MSA showed a better efficacy in symptom control than PPI (PPI cessation: 91% vs 0%; GERD-HRQL improvement: 81% vs 8%) and similar effectiveness but a lower risk of gas-bloat syndrome (risk ratio [RR] 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51-0.93, P = 0.01) and better reserved ability to belch (RR 1.48, 95% CI 0.76-2.86, P = 0.25) compared with LNF.

CONCLUSIONS

MSA was an effective and safe therapy for rGERD. Well-designed randomized trials that compare the efficacy of MSA with other therapies are needed.

Evaluating the impact of an enhanced triage process on the performance and diagnostic yield of oesophageal physiology studies post COVID-19

OBJECTIVES

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted on the provision of oesophageal physiology investigations. During the recovery phase, triaging tools were empirically recommended by national bodies for prioritisation of referrals amidst rising waiting lists and reduced capacity. We evaluated the performance of an enhanced triage process (ETP) consisting of telephone triage combined with the hierarchical 'traffic light system' recommended in the UK for prioritising oesophageal physiology referrals.

DESIGN

In a cross-sectional study of patients referred for oesophageal physiology studies at a tertiary centre, data were compared between patients who underwent oesophageal physiology studies 6 months prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and those who were investigated within 6 months after service resumption with implementation of the ETP.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Adjusted time from referral to investigation; non-attendance rates; the detection of Chicago Classification (CC) oesophageal motility disorders on oesophageal manometry and severity of acid reflux on 24 hours pH/impedance monitoring.

RESULTS

Following service resumption, the ETP reduced non-attendance rates from 9.1% to 2.8% (p=0.021). Use of the 'traffic light system' identified a higher proportion of patients with CC oesophageal motility disorders in the 'amber' and 'red' triage categories, compared with the 'green' category (p=0.011). ETP also reduced the time to test for those who were subsequently found to have a major CC oesophageal motility diagnosis compared with those with minor CC disorders and normal motility (p=0.004). The ETP did not affect the yield or timing of acid reflux studies.

CONCLUSION

ETPs can effectively prioritise patients with oesophageal motility disorders and may therefore have a role beyond the current pandemic.

Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Management Update

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal disorders. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are effective in healing lesions and improving symptoms in most cases, although up to 40% of GERD patients do not respond adequately to PPI therapy. Refractory GERD (rGERD) is one of the most challenging problems, given its impact on the quality of life and consumption of health care resources. The definition of rGERD is a controversial topic as it has not been unequivocally established. Indeed, some patients unresponsive to PPIs who experience symptoms potentially related to GERD may not have GERD; in this case the definition could be replaced with “reflux-like PPI-refractory symptoms.” Patients with persistent reflux-like symptoms should undergo a diagnostic workup aimed at finding objective evidence of GERD through endoscopic and pH-impedance investigations. The management strategies regarding rGERD, apart from a careful check of patient's compliance with PPIs, a possible change in the timing of their administration and the choice of a PPI with a different metabolic pathway, include other pharmacologic treatments. These include histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), alginates, antacids and mucosal protective agents, potassium competitive acid blockers (PCABs), prokinetics, gamma aminobutyric acid-B (GABA-B) receptor agonists and metabotropic glutamate receptor-5 (mGluR5) antagonists, and pain modulators. If there is no benefit from medical therapy, but there is objective evidence of GERD, invasive antireflux options should be evaluated after having carefully explained the risks and benefits to the patient. The most widely performed invasive antireflux option remains laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS), even if other, less invasive, interventions have been suggested in the last few decades, including endoscopic transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), magnetic sphincter augmentation (LINX) or radiofrequency therapy (Stretta). Due to the different mechanisms underlying rGERD, the most effective strategy can vary, and it should be tailored to each patient. The aim of this paper is to review the different management options available to successfully deal with rGERD.

Comparison of 180° anti-reflux mucosectomy versus 270° anti-reflux mucosectomy for treatment of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Anti-reflux mucosectomy (ARMS) is a novel endoscopic treatment for refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (rGERD). Several studies have validated its safety and effectiveness, but postoperative dysphagia remains in concern. Since the influence of different resection ranges on efficacy and complications of ARMS has rarely been studied, this study aimed to compare outcomes of 180°ARMS and 270°ARMS in treatment of rGERD.

METHODS

This study was conducted from August 2017 to September 2020. 39 eligible patients underwent either 180° ARMS or 270° ARMS and followed up at 6 months postoperation. Primary outcome measure was assessed by Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Questionnaire (GERD-Q). Secondary outcomes included quality of life, PPI use, gastroesophageal flap valve grade, presence of reflux esophagitis, acid exposure time (AET), distal contractile integral (DCI), and integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) measured by high-resolution manometry (HRM) and complication rate. Per-protocol analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Among 39 patients, 18 underwent 180° ARMS, while 21 underwent 270° ARMS. At postoperative 6 months follow-up period, primary outcome showed no significant difference between two groups (p = 0.34). Similarly, no significant difference was demonstrated between groups regarding most secondary outcomes except for fewer complaints of newly dysphagia in 180° ARMS group. No other serious complications were observed in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Although 180° ARMS and 270° ARMS could be equally effective for treatment of rGERD, 180° ARMS might be more recommended due to lower incidence of newly post-procedural dysphagia.

Feasibility of resection and plication "RAP" technique for management of medically refractory GERD in patients with altered gastric anatomy

Background and study aims  Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common, especially in patients after gastric surgery. Medical management of GERD is ineffective in up to 30 % patients and revisional gastric surgery for management of GERD is associated with higher morbidity. We aimed to assess the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of a novel endoscopic resection and plication (RAP) anti-reflux procedure for management of medically refractory GERD in patients with altered gastric anatomy. Patients and methods  The RAP procedure involves endoscopic mucosal resection and full-thickness plication over the right posterior-medial axis extending 15 mm above and 20 to 30 mm below the squamocolumnar junction. Adverse events, technical feasibility, GERD health-related quality-of-life (GERD-HRQL) scores, and medication use were prospectively recorded. Results  Twenty consecutive patients with previous gastric surgery underwent RAP between September 2018 and August 2020 with a median follow-up of 5.7 months. The median procedure duration was 66 minutes (IQR 53.8-89.5). RAP was technically successful in 19 patients. One patient developed gastric hemorrhage from suture dehiscence, which was managed endoscopically, and four patients developed esophageal stricture requiring endoscopic dilation. Following the RAP procedure, significant improvement in GERD-HRQL score was observed (mean 26.9, 95 %CI 23.36-30.55, P  < 0.01). Fourteen of 19 patients reported > 50 % improvement in GERD-HRQL scores. Sixteen of 18 patients reported reduction in requirement for or cessation of antacid therapy. Conclusions  Patients with refractory GERD after gastric surgery have limited therapeutic options. We have demonstrated that the RAP procedure is feasible, safe, and clinically effective at short-term follow-up. It provides a potential alternative to revisional surgery in patients with altered gastric anatomy.

Management of Ineffective Esophageal Hypomotility

Esophageal hypomotility in general and especially ineffective esophageal motility according to the Chicago criteria of primary motility disorders of the esophagus, is one of the most frequently diagnosed motility disorders on high resolution manometry and results in a large number of patients visiting gastroenterologists. Most patients with esophageal hypomotility present with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms or dysphagia. The clinical relevance of the motility pattern, however, is not well established but seems to be correlated with disease severity in reflux patients. The correlation with dysphagia is less clear. Prokinetic agents are commonly prescribed as first line pharmacologic intervention to target esophageal smooth muscle contractility and improve esophageal motor functions. However, the beneficial effects of these medications are limited and only confined to some specific drugs. Serotonergic agents, including buspirone, mosapride and prucalopride have been shown to improve parameters of esophageal motility although the effect on symptoms is less clear. Understanding on the complex correlation between esophageal hypomotility and esophageal symptoms as well as the limited evidence of prokinetic agents is necessary for physicians to appropriately manage patients with Ineffective Esophageal Motility (IEM).

Preoperative physiological esophageal assessment for anti-reflux surgery: A guide for surgeons on high-resolution manometry and pH testing

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most commonly encountered digestive diseases in the world, with the prevalence continuing to increase. Many patients are successfully treated with lifestyle modifications and proton pump inhibitor therapy, but a subset of patients require more aggressive intervention for control of their symptoms. Surgical treatment with fundoplication is a viable option for patients with GERD, as it attempts to improve the integrity of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). While surgery can be as effective as medical treatment, it can also be associated with side effects such as dysphagia, bloating, and abdominal pain. Therefore, a thorough pre-operative assessment is crucial to select appropriate surgical candidates. Newer technologies are becoming increasingly available to help clinicians identify patients with true LES dysfunction, such as pH-impedance studies and high-resolution manometry (HRM). Pre-operative evaluation should be aimed at confirming the diagnosis of GERD, ruling out any major motility disorders, and selecting appropriate surgical candidates. HRM and pH testing are key tests to consider for patients with GERD like symptoms, and the addition of provocative measures such as straight leg raises and multiple rapid swallows to HRM protocol can assess the presence of underlying hiatal hernias and to test a patient’s peristaltic reserve prior to surgery.

The early therapeutic response at 2 weeks is a crucial predictor of proton pump inhibitor-refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

In recent years, the prevalence of proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been increasing, posing a clinical obstacle to improving the management of GERD patients. The ability of known predictive factors to explain therapeutic response to PPI remains insufficient. Therefore, we examined whether the addition of early therapeutic response to PPI as an explanatory variable may increase the predictive power for PPI-refractory GERD.

METHODS

The severity and therapeutic response of GERD symptoms to PPI were evaluated using the GastroEsophageal Reflux and Dyspepsia Therapeutic Efficacy and Satisfaction Test (GERD-TEST) questionnaire at baseline and at 2 and 4 weeks after treatment. The relevance of the therapeutic effect of PPI at 2 weeks compared to that at 4 weeks was examined in 301 patients with GERD. Independent predictive factors for refractory GERD at 4 weeks of PPI therapy were examined in 182 patients. The effect of various clinical factors, including the early response to PPI, was assessed using multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

The number of PPI-therapy responders increased significantly with the duration of treatment (p < 0.0001). The response to PPI therapy at 2 weeks was significantly correlated with that at 4 weeks (p < 0.0001). Multiple regression analysis revealed that the therapeutic response to PPI at 2 weeks was by far the strongest predictor of the therapeutic effect at 4 weeks among all clinical factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Medication change for PPI-refractory GERD at 2 weeks may be an efficacious therapeutic strategy to improve patients' quality of life.

Surgical treatment of GERD: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has a high worldwide prevalence in adults and children. There is uncertainty regarding medical versus surgical therapy and different surgical techniques. This review assessed outcomes of antireflux surgery versus medical management of GERD in adults and children, robotic versus laparoscopic fundoplication, complete versus partial fundoplication, and minimal versus maximal dissection in pediatric patients.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched (2004-2019) to identify randomized control and non-randomized comparative studies. Two independent reviewers screened for eligibility. Random effects meta-analysis was performed on comparative data. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias and Newcastle Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

From 1473 records, 105 studies were included. Most had high or uncertain risk of bias. Analysis demonstrated that anti-reflux surgery was associated with superior short-term quality of life compared to PPI (Std mean difference =  - 0.51, 95%CI  - 0.63, - 0.40, I² = 0%) however short-term symptom control was not significantly superior (RR = 0.75, 95%CI 0.47, 1.21, I² = 82%). A proportion of patients undergoing operative treatment continue PPI treatment (28%). Robotic and laparoscopic fundoplication outcomes were similar. Compared to total fundoplication, partial fundoplication was associated with higher rates of prolonged PPI usage (RR = 2.06, 95%CI 1.08, 3.94, I² = 45%). There was no statistically significant difference for long-term symptom control (RR = 0.94, 95%CI 0.85, 1.04, I² = 53%) or long-term dysphagia (RR = 0.73, 95%CI 0.52, 1.02, I² = 0%). Ien, minimal dissection during fundoplication was associated with lower reoperation rates than maximal dissection (RR = 0.21, 95%CI 0.06, 0.67).

CONCLUSIONS

The available evidence regarding the optimal treatment of GERD often suffers from high risk of bias. Additional high-quality randomized control trials may further inform surgical decision making in the treatment of GERD.

The role of serotonin in the control of esophageal sensitivity assessed by multimodal stimulation in health

BACKGROUND

Esophageal hypersensitivity is considered an important pathophysiological mechanism in refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients. Serotonin (5-HT) plays an important role in the regulation of GI (gastrointestinal) secretion, motility and sensitivity. Previous studies found that altered 5-HT availability has no clear effects on esophageal/GI sensations. Our aim was therefore to investigate the role of 5-HT in esophageal sensitivity in healthy volunteers (HV).

METHODS

Esophageal sensitivity to thermal, mechanical, electrical, and chemical stimuli was assessed in 3 different placebo-controlled studies. In the first study, the effect of citalopram (40 mg; 5-HT reuptake inhibitor; intravenous) was investigated (n = 14). In the second study, the effect of buspirone (20 mg; 5HT1A agonist; oral) was investigated (n = 10). In the third study, acute tryptophan depletion (ATD) was used to decrease 5-HT levels to investigate the effect of reduced 5-HT availability on esophageal sensitivity (n = 15).

KEY RESULTS

No difference was observed in esophageal sensitivity after the administration of citalopram or buspirone (all p > 0.06). In contrast, pain perception threshold to chemical stimulation was increased after ATD (p = 0.017, Cohen's d+ = 0.67). No effect was found on the first perception or pain tolerance threshold. ATD had no influence on esophageal sensitivity to thermal, mechanical, and electrical stimulation compared with placebo.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

ATD, which induces 5-HT depletion, significantly decreased pain perception threshold during chemical stimulation, without affecting sensitivity to mechanical, thermal, or electrical stimulation. These findings confirm the involvement of 5-HT in the control of esophageal acid sensitivity, but identifying the receptors involved requires more ligands and studies.

Reflux Symptoms - Functional and Structural Diseases: The Approach from the General Practitioner

A primary care management strategy of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should pay attention to the epidemiology, prevalence, and distribution of reflux-like symptoms in the community and to the special characteristics of patients presenting for the first time with reflux symptoms in primary care. General practitioners (GPs) encounter daily challenges to make cost-effective differential diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, avoiding needless and costly investigation or referral. They should provide long-term effective control of symptoms and esophageal healing in a personalized, symptom-based, patient-centered, and evidence-based manner. GPs should use a practical system of triage in order to distinguish the high majority of patients with self-limiting conditions from the minority with alarm symptoms with potentially severe disorder. They should also discriminate between troublesome and nontroublesome reflux symptoms. Most GERD is uncomplicated and can be treated using management algorithms that make the best use of resources. Some strategies such as "step-down," "intermittent," or "on-demand" therapy can cost-effectively improve the long-term management and quality of life of patients with recurrent GERD. The accurate interpretation of "step-down" therapeutic strategy and a careful interpretation of proton pump inhibitor refractoriness are also essential.

Prevalence of behavioral disorders in patients with vonoprazan-refractory reflux symptoms

BACKGROUND

Behavioral disorders, such as supragastric belching (SGB) and rumination syndrome (RS), which may be treated by cognitive behavioral therapy, are common in patients with reflux symptoms refractory to proton pump inhibitors (PPI). Vonoprazan (VPZ) has been used as a new type of acid inhibitor in Japan since 2015. We herein investigated the prevalence of behavioral disorders in patients with VPZ-refractory reflux symptoms and attempted to identify predictive factors.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed esophagogastroduodenograms, high-resolution manometry, and 24-h multiluminal impedance pH-metry (MIIpH) in patients with VPZ-refractory reflux symptoms (heartburn or regurgitation) receiving 20 mg VPZ who underwent these tests at our hospital between January 2015 and April 2020. Patients were divided as follows: non-erosive reflux disease with pathological esophageal acid exposure (NERD), functional heartburn (FH), reflux hypersensitivity (RH), excessive (> 13 per day) SGB, and possible RS based on MIIpH parameters.

RESULTS

Among 49 patients, 6 (12.2%) had SGB, 4 (8.2%) possible RS, 29 (59.2%) FH, 9 (18.4%) RH, and 1 (2%) NERD. Possible RS patients had more postprandial non-acid reflux events than FH patients (p < 0.05). The multivariate logistic regression analysis did not identify any predictive factors with statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

More than 20% patients with VPZ-refractory reflux symptoms had behavioral disorders. The use of HRM and MIIpH may be clinically relevant for a better diagnosis and more specific treatment.

Clinical feasibility of a new antireflux ablation therapy on gastroesophageal reflux disease (with video)

BACKGROUNDS AND AIMS

New mucosal resective and ablative endoscopic procedures based on gastric cardiac remodeling to prevent reflux have appeared. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a new ablative technique named antireflux ablation therapy (ARAT) for control of GERD in patients without hiatal hernia.

METHODS

Patients with proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-refractory GERD without hiatal hernia underwent ARAT between January 2016 and October 2019. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease-Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL), upper endoscopy, 24-hour pH monitoring, and PPI use were documented at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after ARAT.

RESULTS

One hundred eight patients were included (61 men [56.5%]; median age, 36.5 years; range, 18-78 years). ARAT was performed on all patients. At the 36-month evaluation, 84 patients had completed the protocol. Median ARAT time was 35.5 minutes (range, 22-51 minutes), and median circumference ablation was 300° (range, 270°-320°). No major adverse events occurred, and 14 of 108 patients (12.9%) presented with stenosis that was responsive to balloon dilation (<5 sessions). At the 3-month evaluation, the acid exposure time (AET), DeMeester score, and GERD-HRQL score had decreased from 18.8% to 2.8% (P = .001), 42.5 to 9.1 (P = .001), and 36.5 to 10 (P = .02), respectively, and these values were maintained up to 36 months. Success (AET <4%) was achieved in 89% and 72.2% at 3 and 36 months, respectively. Related factors at 36 months were as follows: pre-ARAT Hill type II (odds ratio [OR], 3.212; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.431-5.951; P = .033), post-ARAT 3-month Hill type I (OR, 4.101; 95% CI, 1.812-9.121; P = .042), and AET <4% at 3 months (OR, 5.512; 95% CI, 1.451-7.621; P = .021).

CONCLUSIONS

ARAT is a feasible, safe, and effective therapy for early and mid-term treatment of GERD in patients without a sliding hiatal hernia. However, longer follow-up evaluations and randomized comparative studies are needed to clarify its real role. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT03548298.).

Weak acids induce PGE2 production in human oesophageal cells: novel mechanisms underlying GERD symptoms

The role of weak acids with pH values in the range of 4–7 has been implicated in the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) is associated with heartburn symptom in GERD patients; however, the precise productive mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we revealed that exposure to weak acids increases PGE₂ production with a peak at pH 4–5, slightly in human normal oesophageal cells (Het-1A), and robustly in oesophageal squamous carcinoma cells (KYSE-270). Release of PGE₂ from the oesophageal mucosa was augmented by weak acid treatment in rat. Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), a bile acid, upregulated cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in Het-1A and KYSE-270 and induced PGE₂ production in KYSE-270 cells. Weak acid-induced PGE₂ production was significantly inhibited by cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), ERK, and transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 4 (TRPV4), a pH-sensing ion channel, inhibitors. Hangeshashinto, a potent inhibitor of COX-2, strongly decreased weak acid- and CDCA-induced PGE₂ levels in KYSE-270. These results indicated that weak acids induce PGE₂ production via TRPV4/ERK/cPLA2 in oesophageal epithelial cells, suggesting a role in GERD symptoms like heartburn. Interventions targeting pH values up to 5 may be necessary for the treatment of GERD.

Gastrointestinal pharmacology: practical tips for the esophagologist

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is primarily a motor disorder, and its pathogenesis is multifactorial. As a consequence, treatment should be able to address the underlying pathophysiology. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the mainstay of medical therapy for GERD, but these drugs only provide the control of symptoms and lesions without curing the disease. However, continuous acid suppression with PPIs is recommended for patients with Barrett's esophagus because of their potential chemopreventive effects. In addition to the antisecretory activity, these compounds display several pharmacological properties, often overlooked in clinical practice. PPIs can indeed affect gastric motility, exert a mucosal protective effect, and an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antineoplastic activity, also protecting cancer cells from developing chemo- or radiotherapeutic resistance. Even in the third millennium, current pharmacologic approaches to address GERD are limited. Reflux inhibitors represent a promise unfulfilled, effective and safe prokinetics are lacking, and antidepressants, despite being effective in selected patients, give rise to adverse events in a large proportion of them. While waiting for new drug classes (like potassium-competitive acid blockers), reassessing old drugs (namely alginate-containing formulations), and paving the new avenue of esophageal mucosal protection are, at the present time, the only reliable alternatives to acid suppression.

Randomised clinical trial: oesophageal radiofrequency energy delivery versus sham for PPI-refractory heartburn

BACKGROUND

Oesophageal radiofrequency reduces use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease responding to PPIs.

AIM

To determine the efficacy of oesophageal radiofrequency in patients with PPI-refractory heartburn.

METHODS

A randomised, double-blind, sham-controlled multicentre study was designed to assess the efficacy of oesophageal radiofrequency in PPI non-responding patients with heartburn. Patients had moderate-to-severe heartburn defined by at least 3 occurrences a week, and not improved by continuous PPI treatment. The primary endpoint was clinical success at week 24, defined by intake of less than 7 PPI doses over the 2 preceding weeks and adequate symptom control determined by the patient.

RESULTS

Sixty two patients were randomised, 29 to the oesophageal radiofrequency group and 33 to the sham group. Intention-to-treat analysis showed that 1/29 (3.4%) and 5/33 (15.1%) achieved the primary endpoint in the oesophageal radiofrequency and sham groups, respectively (NS). There was no significant difference between oesophageal radiofrequency and sham regarding the number of days without heartburn, days with PPI consumption in the last 2 weeks, and patients not taking PPIs. No pH-impedance parameter was associated with clinical response. The occurrence of adverse events was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

This sham-controlled, randomised study did not demonstrate any efficacy of oesophageal radiofrequency for the treatment of PPI-refractory heartburn regarding symptom relief or consumption of PPIs. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01682265.

European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility recommendations for conducting gastrointestinal motility and function testing in the recovery phase of the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND

During the peak of the COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, care for patients with gastrointestinal motility and functional disorders was largely suspended. In the recovery phases of the pandemic, non-urgent medical care is resumed, but there is a lack of guidance for restarting and safely conducting motility and function testing. Breath tests and insertion of manometry and pH-monitoring probes carry a risk of SARS-CoV-2 spread through droplet formation.

METHODS

A panel of experts from the European Society for Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) evaluated emerging national and single-center recommendations to provide the best current evidence and a pragmatic approach to ensure the safe conduct of motility and function testing for both healthcare professionals and patients.

RESULTS

At a general level, this involves evaluation of the urgency of the procedure, evaluation of the infectious risk associated with the patient, the investigation and the healthcare professional(s) involved, provision of the test planning and test units, education and training of staff, and use of personnel protection equipment. Additional guidance is provided for specific procedures such as esophageal manometry, pH monitoring, and breath tests.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

The ESNM guidelines provide pragmatic and appropriate guidance for the safe conduct of motility and function testing in the COVID-19 pandemic and early recovery phase.

A survey on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on motility and functional investigations in Europe and considerations for recommencing activities in the early recovery phase

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic, declared by WHO on March 13, 2020, had a major global impact on the healthcare system and services. In the acute phase, the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the aerodigestive tract limited activities in the gastroenterology clinic and procedures to emergencies only. Motility and function testing was interrupted and as we enter the recovery phase, restarting these procedures requires a safety-focused approach with adequate infection prevention for patients and healthcare professionals.

METHODS

We summarized knowledge on the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the aerodigestive tract and the risk of spread with motility and functional testing. We surveyed 39 European centers documenting how the pandemic affected activities and which measures they are considering for restarting these measurements. We propose recommendations based on current knowledge as applied in our center.

RESULTS

Positioning of catheters for gastrointestinal motility tests carries a concern for aerosol-borne infection of healthcare workers. The risk is low with breath tests. The surveyed centers stopped almost all motility and function tests from the second half of March. The speed of restarting and the safety measures taken varied highly.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Based on these findings, we provided recommendations and practical relevant information for motility and function test procedures in the COVID-19 pandemic era, to guarantee a high-quality patient care with adequate infection prevention.

IW-3718 Reduces Heartburn Severity in Patients With Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in a Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) reduces quality of life and creates significant financial burden on the health care system. Approximately 30% of patients with GERD who receive label-dose proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) still have symptoms. We performed a trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of IW-3718, a bile acid sequestrant, as an adjunct to PPI therapy.

METHODS

We performed a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, from March 2016 through April 2017, of 280 patients with confirmed GERD. The patients, stratified by esophagitis status, were randomly assigned (1:1:1:1) to groups given placebo or IW-3718 (500, 1000, or 1500 mg) twice daily, with ongoing label-dose PPI. The primary endpoint was percent change from baseline to week 8 in weekly heartburn severity score. We also analyzed percent change from baseline to week 8 in weekly regurgitation frequency score.

RESULTS

Mean changes from baseline to week 8 in weekly heartburn severity scores were reductions of 46.0% in the placebo group, 49.0% in the 500 mg group, 55.1% in the 1000 mg group, and 58.0% in the 1500 mg IW-3718 group (dose-response P = .02). The treatment difference was 11.9% between the 1500 mg IW-3718 and placebo groups (P = .04, analysis of covariance). The mean change in weekly regurgitation frequency score from baseline to week 8 in the 1500 mg IW-3718 vs placebo groups was a reduction of 17.5% (95% confidence interval, reductions of 31.4% to 3.6%). The most common adverse event was constipation (in 8.1% of patients receiving IW-3718 and 7.1% of patients receiving placebo). There were no drug-related serious adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

In a randomized trial of patients with refractory GERD, adding 1500 mg IW-3718 to label-dose PPIs significantly reduced heartburn symptoms compared with adding placebo. Regurgitation symptoms also decreased. IW-3718 was well tolerated. (ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT02637557).

Comparison of Laparoscopic 270° Posterior Partial Fundoplication vs Total Fundoplication for the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Restoration of the esophagogastric junction competence is critical for effective long-term treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Surgical repair results in such restoration, but mechanical adverse effects seem unavoidable. Minimizing these adverse effects without jeopardizing reflux control is warranted.

Objective

To determine whether partial fundoplication (PF) or total fundoplication (TF) is superior in laparoscopic antireflux surgery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this double-blind, randomized clinical trial of 1171 patients scheduled for laparoscopic antireflux surgery at a single university-affiliated center between November 19, 2001, and January 24, 2006, 456 patients were randomized and followed up for 5 years. Data were collected from November 2001 to April 2012, and data were analyzed from April 2012 to September 2018.

Interventions

A 270° posterior PF or a 360° Nissen TF.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Esophageal acid exposure at 3 years after surgery.

Result

Of the 456 randomized patients, 268 (58.8%) were male, and the mean (SD) age was 49.0 (11.7) years. A total of 229 patients were randomized to PF, and 227 patients were randomized to TF. At 3 years postoperatively, the median (interquartile range) esophageal acid exposure was reduced from 14.6% (9.8-21.9) to 1.8% (0.7-4.4) after PF and from 16.0% (10.4-22.7) to 2.5% (0.8-6.8) after TF (P = .31). Likewise, reflux symptoms were equally and effectively controlled. Early postoperative dysphagia (6 weeks) was common in both groups but then decreased toward normality. A small but statistically significant difference in favor of PF was noted in the mean (SD) scoring of dysphagia for liquids at 6 weeks (PF, 1.6 [0.9]; TF, 1.9 [1.3]; P = .01) and for solid food at 12 months (PF, 1.3 [1.0]; TF, 1.9 [1.4]; P < .001) and 24 months (PF, 1.3 [0.9]; TF, 1.7 [1.2]; P = .001). Quality of life was reduced before surgery but increased to normal values after surgery and remained so over 5-year follow-up, with no difference between the groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results from this randomized clinical trial suggest that although PF and TF could be recommended for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, PF might be superior by inducing less dysphagia.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03659487.

Endoscopic measurement of gastric pH associates with persistent acid reflux in patients treated with proton-pump inhibitors for gastroesophageal reflux disease

Background

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the mainstay of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) treatment, however, up to 30% of patients have a poor symptomatic response. PH-impedance is the gold standard to assess whether this is due to persistent acid reflux. We aimed to characterize clinical predictors of persistent esophageal acid reflux on PPIs including gastric pH measured during endoscopy.

Methods

We prospectively recruited patients with GERD and/or Barrett's esophagus (BE) on PPIs. All patients completed a symptom questionnaire (RDQ) and underwent gastroscopy with gastric pH analysis, immediately followed by ambulatory 24-hour pH-impedance. We used a modified cut-off of 1.3% for pathological esophageal acid exposure time (AET). Multiple linear regression model was used to analyze the correlation between AET and predictive variables.

Results

We recruited 122 patients, of which 92 (75.4%) were included in the final analysis [44 male (47.8%), median age 53 years (IQR: 43-66)]. Forty-four patients (47.8%) had persistent acid reflux with a median total AET of 2.2 (IQR1.2-5.0), as compared to 0.1 (IQR 0.0-0.2) in patients without persistent reflux (n=48; P<.001). There was no difference in age, gender, BMI, PPI-regimen, diagnosis of hiatus hernia or BE, and severity of symptoms between patients with normal and abnormal AET. Median gastric pH was significantly lower in patients with abnormal AET (5.8 vs 6.6, P=0.032) and it correlated with the total AET (P=.045; R2=12.0%). With a pH cut-off of 5.05, single point endoscopic gastric pH analysis had an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 63.0% (95%CI 51.3-74.7) for prediction of pathological esophageal AET.

Conclusions

Symptoms and clinical characteristics are not useful to predict persistent acid reflux in patients on PPIs. One-point gastric pH correlates with 24-hour esophageal AET and could guide clinicians to assess response to PPIs, however, its utility needs validation in larger studies.

Randomized Trial of Medical versus Surgical Treatment for Refractory Heartburn

BACKGROUND

Heartburn that persists despite proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment is a frequent clinical problem with multiple potential causes. Treatments for PPI-refractory heartburn are of unproven efficacy and focus on controlling gastroesophageal reflux with reflux-reducing medication (e.g., baclofen) or antireflux surgery or on dampening visceral hypersensitivity with neuromodulators (e.g., desipramine).

METHODS

Patients who were referred to Veterans Affairs (VA) gastroenterology clinics for PPI-refractory heartburn received 20 mg of omeprazole twice daily for 2 weeks, and those with persistent heartburn underwent endoscopy, esophageal biopsy, esophageal manometry, and multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring. If patients were found to have reflux-related heartburn, we randomly assigned them to receive surgical treatment (laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication), active medical treatment (omeprazole plus baclofen, with desipramine added depending on symptoms), or control medical treatment (omeprazole plus placebo). The primary outcome was treatment success, defined as a decrease of 50% or more in the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)-Health Related Quality of Life score (range, 0 to 50, with higher scores indicating worse symptoms) at 1 year.

RESULTS

A total of 366 patients (mean age, 48.5 years; 280 men) were enrolled. Prerandomization procedures excluded 288 patients: 42 had relief of their heartburn during the 2-week omeprazole trial, 70 did not complete trial procedures, 54 were excluded for other reasons, 23 had non-GERD esophageal disorders, and 99 had functional heartburn (not due to GERD or other histopathologic, motility, or structural abnormality). The remaining 78 patients underwent randomization. The incidence of treatment success with surgery (18 of 27 patients, 67%) was significantly superior to that with active medical treatment (7 of 25 patients, 28%; P = 0.007) or control medical treatment (3 of 26 patients, 12%; P<0.001). The difference in the incidence of treatment success between the active medical group and the control medical group was 16 percentage points (95% confidence interval, -5 to 38; P = 0.17).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients referred to VA gastroenterology clinics for PPI-refractory heartburn, systematic workup revealed truly PPI-refractory and reflux-related heartburn in a minority of patients. For that highly selected subgroup, surgery was superior to medical treatment. (Funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs Cooperative Studies Program; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01265550.).

Modified inspiratory muscle training (m-IMT) as promising treatment for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

BACKGROUND

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common diseases, but is still a challenge to cure. Different medical treatments are used, first of all Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), however these are sometimes ineffective and long-term intake can lead to underestimated complications. Recently, some studies investigated the role of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in the medical treatment of GERD. It seems that IMT is able to increase the pressure generated by the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), reduce spontaneous releases of LES, acid exposure, use of PPIs, and improve symptoms and quality of life for GERD patients.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of IMT in association with myofunctional therapy exercises of swallowing set by Daniel Garliner (m-IMT) on the symptoms of patients with non-erosive gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (NERD).

METHODS

Twenty-one adult patients with NERD were enrolled from May to December 2017 and performed m-IMT over a period of 4 weeks. Before and after treatment, all the patients completed the following questionnaires: GERD oesophageal symptomatology (GERDQ), extra-oesophageal GERD symptomatology (RSI), quality of life (GERD-Health Related Quality of Life Questionnaire (GERD-HRQL), and underwent laryngeal endoscopy.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients completed m-IMT. GERDQ (from 8.36±3.94 to 1.7±3.41; p<.05), RSI (from to 21.68±10.26 to 6.93±8.37; p<.05) and GERDHRQL (from 25.68±16.03 to 8.4±11.06; p<.05) the questionnaire scores significantly reduced after treatment. In addition, the laryngeal endoscopy score greatly improved (from 14.24±4.15 to 7.4±1.77; p<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

m-IMT is a low cost therapy without side effects. It could be useful in association with PPI or alone for selected GERD cases and for mild NERD forms, in association with diet. Further studies are required to prove the effects of m-IMT on GERD symptoms and decide the best treatment schedule.

Pathophysiology of Potassium-competitive Acid Blocker-refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux and the Potential of Potassium-competitive Acid Blocker Test

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Potassium-competitive acid blockers are expected to be the next generation of drugs for the treatment of diseases caused by gastric acid. In 2015, vonoprazan fumarate, a novel potassium-competitive acid blocker, was approved by the Japanese health insurance system. Since its approval, patients refractory to vonoprazan can be encountered in clinical settings. We designed this study to clarify the pathophysiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease refractory to vonoprazan.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we involved patients who had refractory symptoms after administration of standard-dose proton pump inhibitors or vonoprazan and underwent diagnostic testing with esophageal high-resolution manometry and 24-hour multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH monitoring while using proton pump inhibitors or vonoprazan. Patients were diagnosed based on the Rome IV criteria for functional gastrointestinal disorders and diagnostic test results.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients were analyzed during this study. Gastric pH ≥ 4 was sustained for a longer period of time, and the esophageal acid exposure time and number of acid reflux events were shorter in the vonoprazan group than in the proton pump inhibitor group. The percentage of patients diagnosed with acidic gastroesophageal reflux disease in the vonoprazan group was lower than that in the proton pump inhibitor group.

CONCLUSIONS

Intra-gastric pH and acid reflux were strongly suppressed by 20-mg vonoprazan. When patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease present symptoms after administration of 20-mg vonoprazan, the possibility of pathophysiologies other than acid reflux should be considered.

Baclofen and gastroesophageal reflux disease: seeing the forest through the trees

Baclofen has been shown to decrease reflux events and increase lower esophageal sphincter pressure, yet has never established a clear role in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Lei and colleagues have shown in a recent elegant study that baclofen reduces the frequency and initiation of secondary peristalsis and heightens esophageal sensitivity to capsaicin-mediated stimulation. These findings may help explain both the benefit of baclofen in conditions such as rumination and supragastric belching, as well as the apparent lack of benefit of baclofen and other GABA_B agonists in long-term treatment of GERD.

Proton pump inhibitor-refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease: challenges and solutions

A significant percentage of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) will not respond to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. The causes of PPI-refractory GERD are numerous and diverse, and include adherence, persistent acid, functional disorders, nonacid reflux, and PPI bioavailability. The evaluation should start with a symptom assessment and may progress to imaging, endoscopy, and monitoring of esophageal pH, impedance, and bilirubin. There are a variety of pharmacologic and procedural interventions that should be selected based on the underlying mechanism of PPI failure. Pharmacologic treatments can include antacids, prokinetics, alginates, bile acid binders, reflux inhibitors, and antidepressants. Procedural options include laparoscopic fundoplication and LINX as well as endoscopic procedures, such as transoral incisionless fundoplication and Stretta. Several alternative and complementary treatments of possible benefit also exist.