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Omer NNCDS, Araujo IDD, Cruz GMGD, Rodrigues FG. Therapeutics in Radiation-induced Proctopathy: A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF COLOPROCTOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1742258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMalignant neoplasms are increasingly prevalent in the daily clinical practice. Up to 61% of patients with pelvic malignancies undergo pelvic radiotherapy in different doses, which may cause intestinal damage, and the rectum is the segment most frequently affected due to its fixed position in the pelvis. Currently, there are several strategies to minimize the effects of radiation on the tissues surrounding the neoplastic site; despite those strategies, radiotherapy can still result in serious damage to organs and structures, and these injuries accompany patients throughout their lives. One of the most common damages resulting from pelvic radiotherapy is acute proctitis.The diagnosis is confirmed by visualizing the rectal mucosa through rigid or flexible rectosigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. The objective of the present study was to review the forms of radiation-induced proctopathytherapy, and to evaluate the results of each method to propose a standardization for the treatment of this pathology. Despite the prevalence of radiation-induced proctopathy, there is no definitive standardized treatment strategy so far. The first approach can be tried with local agents, such as mesalazine and formalin. For refractory cases, control can usually be achieved with argon plasma coagulation, hyperbaric oxygen, and radiofrequency ablation therapies. Regarding the study of radiation-induced proctopathy, there is a lack of robust studies with large samples and standardized therapies to be compared. There is a lack of double-blinded, randomized controlled studies to determine a definitive standard treatment algorithm.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivana Duval de Araujo
- Doctor and Associate Professor IV, Department of Surgery, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Montes de Oca Megías E, Morera Pérez M, Noa Pedroso G, Piñol Jiménez F, Armenteros Torres M. Short and long term response to argon plasma therapy for hemorrhagic radiation proctitis. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2019; 111:852-857. [PMID: 31595754 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2019.5998/2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION hemorrhagic radiation proctitis appears secondary to radiotherapy. Argon plasma is an effective, safe and easy-to-use technique with a relatively low cost. OBJECTIVES to describe the short- and long-term response to argon plasma therapy in patients with hemorrhagic radiation proctitis. METHOD an observational prospective study was performed of a series of 82 patients with hemorrhagic radiation proctitis, attended at the National Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery between 2010 and 2016. Summary measurements and a comparison of means (paired Student's t-test) for the final and initial hemoglobin levels were used. In addition, the Kaplan-Meier method was used to determine the rectal bleeding recurrence free time. RESULTS in the present study, 54.9% of cases required 1-3 argon sessions and 86.6% required 1-5 sessions to resolve the bleeding, with a median of 3.0 sessions. In addition, 4.9% of patients had proctalgia as a complication. There was an improvement in hemoglobin of 2 g/dl. Rectal bleeding recurrence occurred in 8.5% of the patients during the nine months after therapy. Bleeding recurrence free time at three, six and nine months was 98.8%, 96.3% and 91.5%, respectively. Short-term therapy response was observed in all patients and long-term response after one year of follow-up was 91.5%. CONCLUSION argon plasma coagulation shows a good short- and long-term response with few therapy sessions and a low rate of complications in patients with chronic hemorrhagic radiation proctitis.
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Lee JK, Agrawal D, Thosani N, Al-Haddad M, Buxbaum JL, Calderwood AH, Fishman DS, Fujii-Lau LL, Jamil LH, Jue TL, Khashab MA, Law JK, Naveed M, Qumseya BJ, Sawhney MS, Storm AC, Yang J, Wani SB. ASGE guideline on the role of endoscopy for bleeding from chronic radiation proctopathy. Gastrointest Endosc 2019; 90:171-182.e1. [PMID: 31235260 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2019.04.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic radiation proctopathy is a common sequela of radiation therapy for malignancies in the pelvic region. A variety of medical and endoscopic therapies have been used for the management of bleeding from chronic radiation proctopathy. In this guideline, we reviewed the results of a systematic search of the literature from 1946 to 2017 to formulate clinical questions and recommendations on the role of endoscopy for bleeding from chronic radiation proctopathy. The following endoscopic modalities are discussed in our document: argon plasma coagulation, bipolar electrocoagulation, heater probe, radiofrequency ablation, and cryoablation. Most studies were small observational studies, and the evidence for effectiveness of endoscopic therapy for chronic radiation proctopathy was limited because of a lack of controlled trials and comparative studies. Despite this limitation, our systematic review found that argon plasma coagulation, bipolar electrocoagulation, heater probe, and radiofrequency ablation were effective in the treatment of rectal bleeding from chronic radiation proctopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey K Lee
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Deepak Agrawal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Nirav Thosani
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, McGovern Medical School, UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mohammad Al-Haddad
- Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - James L Buxbaum
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Audrey H Calderwood
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Douglas S Fishman
- Department of Gastroenterology, Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Laith H Jamil
- Pancreatic and Biliary Diseases Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Terry L Jue
- The Permanente Medical Group, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mouen A Khashab
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joanna K Law
- Digestive Disease Institute, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mariam Naveed
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Bashar J Qumseya
- Department of Gastroenterology, Archbold Medical Group, Thomasville, Georgia, USA
| | - Mandeep S Sawhney
- Division of Gastroenterology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew C Storm
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Julie Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Sachin B Wani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Treatment of Chronic Radiation Proctitis. Dis Colon Rectum 2018; 61:1135-1140. [PMID: 30192320 DOI: 10.1097/dcr.0000000000001209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Efficacy and Safety of Argon Plasma Coagulation for Hemorrhagic Chronic Radiation Proctopathy: A Systematic Review. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2018; 2018:3087603. [PMID: 29681929 PMCID: PMC5845516 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3087603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemorrhagic chronic radiation proctopathy (CRP) is a common complication after pelvic radiotherapy in patients with prostate or gynecological cancers. This systematic review was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of argon plasma coagulation (APC) in treating hemorrhagic CRP. The databases of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched for related studies from inception to July 2017. Finally, 33 studies were identified with a total of 821 hemorrhagic CRP patients. After APC treatment, hemoglobin levels increased from 7.7–13.4 g/L to 11–14 g/L (including 15 studies). All (n = 33) studies reported an effective rate in rectal bleeding, among which five studies had a rate of 100%. Short-term complications were reported in 31 studies, while long-term complications in 33 studies and no complication in 11 studies. As for the severe complications, perforation was reported by 2 out of 33 studies, and the incidences were 3.3% (1/30) and 3.7% (1/27), respectively. As for APC setting, argon gas flow rate (median 1.5 L/min) and electric power (median 50 W) had no significant influence on complications and hemostasis. In conclusion, current literature indicated that APC therapy was an effective and safe strategy for hemorrhagic CRP, and large-scale prospective studies are needed to warrant our study.
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Sahebnasagh A, Ghasemi A, Akbari J, Alipour A, Lashkardoost H, Ala S, Salehifar E. Successful Treatment of Acute Radiation Proctitis with Aloe Vera: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. J Altern Complement Med 2017; 23:858-865. [PMID: 28618234 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2017.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute radiation proctitis (ARP) is a common side-effect that affects up to 50% of patients receiving radiotherapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of a topical preparation of Aloe vera in the treatment of ARP induced by radiotherapy of pelvic area. SUBJECTS AND INTERVENTIONS In this double-blind placebo-controlled trial, 20 consecutive patients with ARP after external-beam radiation therapy (46-72 Gy) of pelvic malignancies were randomized to receive either Aloe vera 3% or placebo ointment, 1 g twice daily for 4 weeks. These patients presented with at least two of the following symptoms: rectal bleeding, abdominal/rectal pain, diarrhea, or fecal urgency. These symptoms were rated by the patients in terms of their severity (grade 0-4) for each of the symptoms mentioned earlier at baseline and then weekly for 4 weeks. A symptom index was calculated by the addition of the scores (16 most symptomatic). Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) acute toxicity criteria and psychosocial status of the patients were also recorded weekly. The lifestyle impact of the symptoms was assessed by questionnaire grading from 0 (no effect on daily activity) to 4 (afraid to leave home). RESULTS There was a significant (p < 0.05) improvement in the symptom index (before treatment vs. after treatment with Aloe vera) for diarrhea (median score: 0.67 vs. 0.11), fecal urgency (median score: 0.89 vs. 0.11), clinical presentation total (median score: 4.33 vs. 1.22), RTOG total (median score: 2.89 vs. 0.89), and lifestyle (median score: 1.1 vs. 0.33). Hemorrhage and abdominal/rectal pain did not improve significantly. The odds ratios for advantage of Aloe vera over placebo for "clinical presentation total" and "RTOG total" were 3.97 (1.3-11.9) and 5.9 (1.6-21.6), respectively. CONCLUSION A substantial number of patients with radiation proctitis seem to benefit from therapy with Aloe vera 3% ointment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeleh Sahebnasagh
- 1 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences , Sari, Iran
| | - Arash Ghasemi
- 2 Emam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences , Sari, Iran
| | - Jafar Akbari
- 3 Pharmaceutical Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences , Sari, Iran
| | - Abbas Alipour
- 4 Faculty of Medicine, Community Medicine Department, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences , Sari, Iran
| | - Hossein Lashkardoost
- 5 School of Public Health, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences , Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Shahram Ala
- 3 Pharmaceutical Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences , Sari, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Salehifar
- 6 Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Center, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences , Sari, Iran
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Nelamangala Ramakrishnaiah VP, Krishnamachari S. Chronic haemorrhagic radiation proctitis: A review. World J Gastrointest Surg 2016; 8:483-491. [PMID: 27462390 PMCID: PMC4942748 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v8.i7.483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2015] [Revised: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic haemorrhagic radiation proctitis (CHRP) is a difficult problem faced by the patients following radiation for pelvic malignancy. There is no standard treatment for this condition, but many methods of treatment are available. The aim of this study was to review the literature to see whether there is an improvement in the available evidence in comparison with previously published systematic reviews in treating patients with CHRP. The PubMed/Medline database and Google Scholar search was selectively searched. Studies, which treated patients with rectal bleeding due to chronic radiation proctitis or CHRP, were included. Seventy studies were finally selected out of which 14 were randomized controlled clinical trials. Though these studies could not be compared, it could be seen that there was an improvement in the methodology of the studies. There was an objective assessment of symptoms, signs and an objective assessment of outcomes. But, still, there were only a few studies that looked into the quality of life following treatment of CHRP. To increase recruitment to trials, a national registry of cases with established late radiation toxicity would facilitate the further improvement of such studies. Some of the conclusions that could be reached based on the available evidence are 4% formalin should be the first line treatment for patients with CHRP. Formalin and argon plasma coagulation (APC) are equally effective, but formalin is better for severe disease. Refractory patients, not responding to formalin or APC, need to be referred for hyperbaric oxygen therapy or surgery. Radio-frequency ablation is a promising modality that needs to be studied further in randomized trials.
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Vanneste BGL, Van De Voorde L, de Ridder RJ, Van Limbergen EJ, Lambin P, van Lin EN. Chronic radiation proctitis: tricks to prevent and treat. Int J Colorectal Dis 2015; 30:1293-303. [PMID: 26198994 PMCID: PMC4575375 DOI: 10.1007/s00384-015-2289-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to give an overview of the measures used to prevent chronic radiation proctitis (CRP) and to provide an algorithm for the treatment of CRP. METHODS Medical literature databases including PubMed and Medline were screened and critically analyzed for relevance in the scope of our purpose. RESULTS CRP is a relatively frequent late side effect (5-20%) and mainly dependent on the dose and volume of irradiated rectum. Radiation treatment (RT) techniques to prevent CRP are constantly improving thanks to image-guided RT and intensity-modulated RT. Also, newer techniques like protons and new devices such as rectum spacers and balloons have been developed to spare rectal structures. Biopsies do not contribute to diagnosing CRP and should be avoided because of the risk of severe rectal wall damage, such as necrosis and fistulas. There is no consensus on the optimal treatment of CRP. A variety of possibilities is available and includes topical and oral agents, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and endoscopic interventions. CONCLUSIONS CRP has a natural history of improving over time, even without treatment. This is important to take into account when considering these treatments: first be conservative (topical and oral agents) and be aware that invasive treatments can be very toxic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben G L Vanneste
- Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO Clinic), GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 3035, 6202 NA, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Lien Van De Voorde
- Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO Clinic), GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 3035, 6202 NA, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rogier J de Ridder
- Department of Gastroenterology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Evert J Van Limbergen
- Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO Clinic), GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 3035, 6202 NA, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Philippe Lambin
- Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO Clinic), GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 3035, 6202 NA, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Emile N van Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO Clinic), GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P.O. Box 3035, 6202 NA, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Rustagi T, Corbett FS, Mashimo H. Treatment of chronic radiation proctopathy with radiofrequency ablation (with video). Gastrointest Endosc 2015; 81:428-36. [PMID: 24973172 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2014.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic radiation proctopathy (CRP) is a common sequela occurring even many years after pelvic radiation. Current ablative therapies for bleeding ectatic vessels have the potential for deep tissue injury leading to ulcerations, perforation, and fistulas. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy avoids deep tissue injury and is a promising treatment for CRP. OBJECTIVE To assess the long-term safety and efficacy of RFA for the treatment of CRP. DESIGN Multicenter, retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database. SETTING Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Massachusetts; Sarasota Memorial Hospital and Suncoast Endoscopy of Sarasota, Florida. PATIENTS A total of 39 consecutive patients with CRP. INTERVENTIONS Endoscopic RFA of CRP. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS The primary endpoint of the study was complete resolution of rectal bleeding. Secondary endpoints included visually scored improvement of CRP on endoscopic follow-up by using a rectal telangiectasia density (RTD) grading score, improvement in hemoglobin level, and adverse events related to the procedure. RESULTS A total of 39 male patients (mean [± standard deviation {SD}] age 72.9 ± 6.6 years) were included in the study. The mean number of RFA sessions was 1.49 (median 1, interquartile range [IQR] 1-2, range 1-4), with a mean interval of 18 weeks between sessions. Rectal bleeding stopped completely in all patients during the mean follow-up of 28 months (range 7-53 months). A significant improvement occurred in the mean (± SD) hemoglobin level from 11.8 ± 2 to 13.5 ± 1.6 g % (P < .0001). Endoscopic severity also improved significantly with an improvement in the median RTD score from 3 (IQR 2-3) to 0 (IQR 0-1) (P < .0001). Treatment with RFA led to discontinuation of blood transfusion and iron therapy in 92% and 82% patients, respectively. LIMITATIONS Retrospective analysis, lack of control group. CONCLUSION RFA therapy led to complete resolution of rectal bleeding in all treated CRP patients, with improvement in clinical and endoscopic indices without any major adverse events. Further controlled studies are needed to establish RFA as the endoscopic therapy of choice for treatment of CRP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarun Rustagi
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - F Scott Corbett
- Florida Digestive Health Specialists, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Sarasota, Florida, USA
| | - Hiroshi Mashimo
- Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Karamanolis G, Psatha P, Triantafyllou K. Endoscopic treatments for chronic radiation proctitis. World J Gastrointest Endosc 2013; 5:308-12. [PMID: 23858374 PMCID: PMC3711061 DOI: 10.4253/wjge.v5.i7.308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2013] [Revised: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic radiation proctitis is a complication that occurs in patients who receive radiation therapy for pelvic malignancies. The common presentation is with rectal bleeding, but also rectal pain, diarrhea, tenesmus and even passage of mucus can occur. The optimal treatment of bleeding due to radiation proctitis remains unclear. Among various therapeutic options, medical management is generally ineffective and surgical intervention has a high incidence of morbidity. Promising advances have been made in endoscopic therapy, including argon plasma coagulation (APC), formalin application as well as new techniques such as radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation. APC is a safe, highly effective and long-lasting therapy in patients with rectal bleeding associated with radiation proctitis. It has been shown that several sessions of APC reduce the rate of bleeding and therefore the blood transfusion requirements. Moreover, the effect of treatment is long lasting. However, best results are achieved in patients with mild to moderate radiation proctitis, leaving space for alternative treatments for patients with more severe disease. In patients with severe or refractory radiation proctitis intra rectal formalin application is an appropriate treatment option. Radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation have shown efficacy as alternative methods in a limited number of patients with refractory chronic radiation proctitis.
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Eddi R, DePasquale JR. Radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of radiation proctitis: a case report and review of literature. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2013; 6:69-76. [PMID: 23320051 PMCID: PMC3539292 DOI: 10.1177/1756283x12456895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiation proctitis is a frequent complication of pelvic radiation for cancer. This condition can present acutely within several weeks of radiation, or chronically many months or years after radiation, leading to rectal bleeding and transfusion-dependent anemia. Various medical and endoscopic therapies have been described to treat this condition; however, some patients fail to respond to the current standard therapies. Here we present a case of refractory radiation proctitis, with suboptimal response to other therapies, treated successfully with a novel method, radiofrequency ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodney Eddi
- Seton Hall University, School of Health and Medical Sciences – St. Michael’s Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, 111 Central Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Joseph R. DePasquale
- Seton Hall University, School of Health and Medical Sciences – St. Michael’s Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Newark, USA
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Rustagi T, Mashimo H. Endoscopic management of chronic radiation proctitis. World J Gastroenterol 2011; 17:4554-62. [PMID: 22147960 PMCID: PMC3225092 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i41.4554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Revised: 05/14/2011] [Accepted: 05/21/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic radiation proctopathy occurs in 5%-20% of patients following pelvic radiotherapy. Although many cases resolve spontaneously, some lead to chronic symptoms including diarrhea, tenesmus, urgency and persistent rectal bleeding with iron deficiency anemia requiring blood transfusions. Treatments for chronic radiation proctitis remain unsatisfactory and the basis of evidence for various therapies is generally insufficient. There are very few controlled or prospective trials, and comparisons between therapies are limited because of different evaluation methods. Medical treatments, including formalin, topical sucralfate, 5-amino salicylic acid enemas, and short chain fatty acids have been used with limited success. Surgical management is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Endoscopic therapy using modalities such as the heater probe, neodymium:yttrium-aluminium-garnet laser, potassium titanyl phosphate laser and bipolar electrocoagulation has been reported to be of some benefit, but with frequent complications. Argon plasma coagulation is touted to be the preferred endoscopic therapy due to its efficacy and safety profile. Newer methods of endoscopic ablation such as radiofrequency ablation and cryotherapy have been recently described which may afford broader areas of treatment per application, with lower rate of complications. This review will focus on endoscopic ablation therapies, including such newer modalities, for chronic radiation proctitis.
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Swan MP, Moore GTC, Sievert W, Devonshire DA. Efficacy and safety of single-session argon plasma coagulation in the management of chronic radiation proctitis. Gastrointest Endosc 2010; 72:150-4. [PMID: 20493484 DOI: 10.1016/j.gie.2010.01.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2009] [Accepted: 01/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic radiation proctitis (CRP) manifests as rectal bleeding 12 to 24 months after pelvic radiotherapy. No criterion standard of treatment has been established, although argon plasma coagulation (APC) has increasingly become the treatment of choice. Previous studies have applied APC over multiple sessions, necessitating increased numbers of treatments. OBJECTIVE To assess the safety and efficacy of large-volume APC application in the treatment of CRP with the intention of a single-session treatment protocol. DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Tertiary referral hospital. PATIENTS Over an 8-year period, consecutive patients with CRP with rectal bleeding were prospectively enrolled. INTERVENTION Large-volume APC application to affected rectal mucosa. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Number of treatments, bleeding scores, complications. RESULTS Fifty patients (mean age 72.1 years; range 51-87 years) were treated; 45 were men (prostate cancer). The mean period between radiotherapy and initial APC treatment was 23 months (range 4-140 months). Seventeen (34%) patients had grade A endoscopic severity, 23 (46%) grade B, and 10 (20%) grade C. Other therapies failed in 16 (32%) patients. The mean number of treatments was 1.36 (range 1-3) with a mean follow-up of 20.6 months (range 6-48 months). Sixty-eight percent of patients were successfully treated after 1 session and 96% after 2 sessions. Bleeding scores improved in all patients (P < .001). Seventeen (34%) patients experienced short-term, self-limiting complications; 1 (2%) patient experienced a long-term complication. LIMITATIONS Nonrandomized study. CONCLUSIONS Large-volume APC treatment was successful in the treatment of CRP, including those in whom other therapies had previously failed, and resulted in a decreased number of treatments compared with other published studies. The benefits were offset by an increased incidence of short-term complications but no increase in long-term complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Swan
- Endoscopy Unit, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Argon photocoagulation in the treatment of gastric antral vascular ectasia and radiation proctitis. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DE GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2010; 23:801-4. [PMID: 20011731 DOI: 10.1155/2009/374138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) and radiation proctitis are two vascular disorders of the gastrointestinal tract that typically present with recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding. Although the pathogenesis of either condition is not known, they are unlikely to be similar. GAVE appears to be related to autoimmune disorders or cirrhosis, while radiation proctitis is the result of pelvic irradiation, most commonly used for the treatment of pelvic malignancies. Medical therapies for both conditions are not typically effective, and surgical therapies are usually not required because endoscopic treatment, aimed at coagulation of the underlying vascular lesions, has evolved as the most effective therapy. There is limited evidence in the literature for the use of medical and surgical therapies, with most of the evidence coming from case reports involving small numbers of patients. In the present article, we review the evidence for the use of argon plasma photocoagulation (APC, the most commonly used endoscopic modality) in the treatment of GAVE and radiation proctitis.
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Abstract
Endoscopic haemostasis should be attempted as the initial approach in most cases of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, although cross-disciplinary collaboration is a prerequisite. For variceal bleeding, band ligation is the method of choice in the elective setting, although injection therapy still has a role in acute bleeding. Histoacryl remains preferable for fundic varices in most parts of the world. For peptic ulcer bleeds, injection therapy should be combined with at least one 'mechanical' modality, thermal treatment or clipping. In rebleeding, a single endoscopic retreatment can be attempted, but alternative approaches must be considered. Acute lower GI bleeding is primarily a diagnostic challenge but, if the focus is found, the regular techniques for haemostasis can usually be applied. If small bowel haemorrhage is suspected after upper and lower endoscopy, capsule endoscopy and balloon enteroscopy offer make it possible to address even small bowel foci.
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[Nonsurgical treatment of chronic radiation-induced hemorrhagic proctitis]. Presse Med 2008; 37:1113-20. [PMID: 18077130 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2007.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2007] [Revised: 07/22/2007] [Accepted: 07/27/2007] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of radiation-induced chronic hemorrhagic proctitis is less than 10 to 20%. The onset of this proctitis is delayed relative to the radiation therapy and generally develops from 6 to 24 months later. There are numerous predisposing factors, the most important of which is the radiation therapy dose: risk increases exponentially above 40-45 Gy. Its pathophysiology involves progressive obliterating endarteritis and transmural interstitial fibrosis, which induce chronic ischemia that is irreversible and progressive during the years after radiation therapy. Its diagnosis depends most often on the combination of clinical history and typical endoscopic appearance (congestive mucosa and/or telangiectases). Topical administrative of sucralfate or corticosteroids as well as argon plasma coagulation, with formalin treatment if necessary, provides relief for most patients.
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de Parades V, Bauer P, Marteau P, Chauveinc L, Bouillet T, Atienza P. Traitement non chirurgical des rectites radiques chroniques hémorragiques. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 31:919-28. [DOI: 10.1016/s0399-8320(07)78299-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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