The effect of antireflux surgery on esophageal carcinogenesis in patients with barrett esophagus: a systematic review

Antireflux Surgery Versus Antireflux Medication and Risk of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma in Patients With Barrett's Esophagus

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Antireflux treatment is recommended to reduce esophageal adenocarcinoma in patients with Barrett's esophagus. Antireflux surgery (fundoplication) counteracts gastroesophageal reflux of all types of carcinogenic gastric content and reduces esophageal acid exposure to a greater extent than antireflux medication (eg, proton pump inhibitors). We examined the hypothesis that antireflux surgery prevents esophageal adenocarcinoma to a larger degree than antireflux medication in patients with Barrett's esophagus.

METHODS

This multinational and population-based cohort study included all patients with a diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus in any of the national patient registries in Denmark (2012-2020), Finland (1987-1996 and 2010-2020), Norway (2008-2020), or Sweden (2006-2020). Patients who underwent antireflux surgery were compared with nonoperated patients using antireflux medication. The risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma was calculated using multivariable Cox regression, providing hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs adjusted for age, sex, country, calendar year, and comorbidity.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 33,939 patients with Barrett's esophagus. Of these, 542 (1.6%) had undergone antireflux surgery. During up to 32 years of follow-up, the overall HR was not decreased in patients having undergone antireflux surgery compared with nonoperated patients using antireflux medication, but rather increased (adjusted HR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1-3.5). In addition, HRs did not decrease with longer follow-up, but instead increased for each follow-up category, from 1.8 (95% CI, 0.6-5.0) within 1-4 years of follow-up to 4.4 (95% CI, 1.4-13.5) after 10-32 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with Barrett's esophagus who undergo antireflux surgery do not seem to have a lower risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma than those using antireflux medication.

Management of Long-Segment Barrett's Esophagus

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common gastrointestinal disorder with one of its most feared complications being Barrett's esophagus (BE). Currently, most of the recommendations of BE management are driven by the level of dysplasia. However, the length of BE might also be related to the risk of dysplasia/malignant transformation. We aimed to determine the appropriate management of BE based on its length. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted with searches made on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Long-segment BE (LSBE) was defined as 3 cm or longer and short-segment BE (SSBE) as under 3 cm. Studies evaluating the behavior and management of SSBE and/or LSBE were included for analysis. Results: LSBE have greater risk of dysplasia or progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma compared to SSBE. Despite this greater risk, LSBE and SSBE are currently managed similarly based on the presence and degree of dysplasia. Endoscopic and ablative techniques may have higher level of success and less complications in SSBE, compared to LSBE. Decreasing time interval between surveillance may be a viable option for managing LSBE. Conclusions: Although many algorithms of monitoring and treatment of BE remain the same regardless of segment length, current evidence suggests that more aggressive management for LSBE might be needed due to its higher risk of malignant progression.

Neoplastic Progression of Barrett's Esophagus Among Organ Transplant Recipients: a Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Several small studies reported high risk of progression to high-grade dysplasia (HGD) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) in Barrett's esophagus (BE) patients who undergo solid organ transplantation (SOT) and implied that this may be due to immunosuppressant use. However, the major shortcoming of these studies was the lack of a control population. Therefore, we aimed to determine the rates of neoplastic progression in BE patients who underwent SOT and compare to that in controls and identify the predictors of progression.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of BE patients seen in Cleveland Clinic and affiliated hospitals between January 2000 and August 2022. Demographics, endoscopic and histological findings, history of SOT and fundoplication, immunosuppressant use, and follow-up were abstracted.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 3466 patients with BE, of which 115 had SOT (lung 35, liver 34, kidney 32, heart 14, and pancreas 2) and 704 patients on chronic immunosuppressants but no history of SOT. During a median follow-up of 5.1 years, there was no difference in the annual risk of progression between the three groups (SOT=0.61%, no SOT but on immunosuppressants= 0.82%, and no SOT/no immunosuppressants= 0.94%, p=0.72). On multivariate analysis, immunosuppressant use (odds ratio (OR) 1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-1.82, p=0.025) but not SOT (OR 0.39, 95%CI 0.15-1.01, p=0.053) was associated with neoplastic progression in BE patients.

CONCLUSION

Immunosuppression is a risk factor for progression of BE to HGD/EAC. Therefore, close surveillance of BE patients on chronic immunosuppressants needs to be considered.

Long-term (18 Years) Results of Patients With Long-segment Barrett Esophagus Submitted to Acid Suppression-duodenal Diversion Operation: Better Than Nissen Fundoplication?

OBJECTIVE

To determine late results of AS-DD procedure in long-segment (LSBE) and extralong-segment BE (ELSBE) using subjective and objective measurements to ascertain the histological impact over intestinal metaplasia (IM) and progression to EAC.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Barrett esophagus (BE) is a known precursor of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), and Nissen fundoplication has proven to be unable to stop mixed reflux among them. Our group proposed a surgical procedure that handles pathophysiological changes responsible for BE.

METHODS

This prospective study included 127 LSBE and ELSBE subjects submitted to clinical and functional analyses. They were presented to selective vagotomy, fundoplication, partial gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction. The changes in IM were determined in both groups.

RESULTS

Follow-up was completed at a mean of 18 years in 81% of the cases. Visick I-II scores were seen in 88% of LSBE and 65% in ELSBE ( P < 0.01). There was significant healing of erosive esophagitis and esophageal peptic ulcers, and strictures were resolved in 71%. There was 38% of IM regression in LSBE. Two cases in each group progressed to EAC at a mean of 15 years. Pathologic acid reflux was abolished in 91% and duodenal in 100%. There was a regression of low-grade dysplasia to IM in 80%.

CONCLUSIONS

AS-DD permanently eliminates pathologic refluxate to the esophagus. The progression to HGD/EAC is lower compared to medical treatment, with an 8-fold reduction in LSBE and 2.2-fold in ELSBE. AS-DD seems to influence IM behaviors, and it is a tool that could reduce and delay progression to EAC.

Epidemiology and prevention of oesophageal adenocarcinoma

Oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) develops from columnar metaplasia of the distal oesophagus, Barrett's oesophagus (BO), secondary to chronic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). In the present review, the stepwise development of GORD, BO and OAC is presented and the evidence of OAC prevention, including treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs are the main treatment of GORD and BO, with some evidence of prevention of OAC in these patients. However, as about 40% of OAC patient do not report a history of GORD and fewer than 15% of OAC cases are detected in individuals during BO surveillance, prevention of OAC is limited by PPI use in GORD and BO patients.

Diagnosis and Management of Barrett's Esophagus: An Updated ACG Guideline

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a common condition associated with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease. BE is the only known precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma, a highly lethal cancer with an increasing incidence over the last 5 decades. These revised guidelines implement Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology to propose recommendations for the definition and diagnosis of BE, screening for BE and esophageal adenocarcinoma, surveillance of patients with known BE, and the medical and endoscopic treatment of BE and its associated early neoplasia. Important changes since the previous iteration of this guideline include a broadening of acceptable screening modalities for BE to include nonendoscopic methods, liberalized intervals for surveillance of short-segment BE, and volume criteria for endoscopic therapy centers for BE. We recommend endoscopic eradication therapy for patients with BE and high-grade dysplasia and those with BE and low-grade dysplasia. We propose structured surveillance intervals for patients with dysplastic BE after successful ablation based on the baseline degree of dysplasia. We could not make recommendations regarding chemoprevention or use of biomarkers in routine practice due to insufficient data.

Barrett’s esophagus: Review of natural history and comparative efficacy of endoscopic and surgical therapies

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is the precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Progression to cancer typically occurs in a stepwise fashion through worsening dysplasia and ultimately, invasive neoplasia. Established EAC with deep involvement of the esophageal wall and/or metastatic disease is invariably associated with poor long-term survival rates. This guides the rationale of surveillance of Barrett’s in an attempt to treat lesions at an earlier, and potentially curative stage. The last two decades have seen a paradigm shift in management of Barrett’s with rapid expansion in the role of endoscopic eradication therapy (EET) for management of dysplastic and early neoplastic BE, and there have been substantial changes to international consensus guidelines for management of early BE based on evolving evidence. This review aims to assist the physician in the therapeutic decision-making process with patients by comprehensive review and summary of literature surrounding natural history of Barrett’s by histological stage, and the effectiveness of interventions in attenuating the risk posed by its natural history. Key findings were as follows. Non-dysplastic Barrett’s is associated with extremely low risk of progression, and interventions cannot be justified. The annual risk of cancer progression in low grade dysplasia is between 1%-3%; EET can be offered though evidence for its benefit remains confined to highly select settings. High-grade dysplasia progresses to cancer in 5%-10% per year; EET is similarly effective to and less morbid than surgery and should be routinely performed for this indication. Risk of nodal metastases in intramucosal cancer is 2%-4%, which is comparable to operative mortality rate, so EET is usually preferred. Submucosal cancer is associated with nodal metastases in 14%-41% hence surgery remains standard of care, except for select situations.

Barrett's esophagus: results from an Italian cohort with tight endoscopic surveillance

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Barrett's Esophagus represents a condition that predisposes to the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma. The aim of the present study was to analyze the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with BE, to establish the presence of risk factors for this condition, and to determine the frequency of dysplastic lesions as well as the evolution towards adenocarcinoma under tight endoscopic control.

METHODS

In this study, we retrospectively collected and analyzed data from a cohort of patients with Barrett's Esophagus identified through endoscopic records of ULSS7 in Northern Italy, who underwent upper esophagogastroduodenoscopy over a 10-year period from July 2008 to December 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 264 patients were identified as having BE and included in the study. Mean follow-up was 6.7 years (range: 3 months-13 years). Demographic characteristics of the study population included mean age of 62.7 years (range 33-90 years), with 62.5% of the study population being aged 60 or older, and a male predominance. Females were significantly older than males (65.7 years, range 37-90 vs 61.9 years, range 33-87, p=0.043, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study confirms the importance of tight endoscopic control in the management of BE, favoring early detection of BE degeneration towards high-grade dysplasia or adenocarcinoma. In a subset of patients with high-risk factors including male sex, cigarette smoking and heavy alcohol intake, it may be worthwhile to consider endoscopic control over time in order to detect the development of BE.

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM)

BACKGROUND

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is gaining traction as a minimally invasive treatment of achalasia. Increased reflux is reported after POEM but the incidence, type and severity of reflux are not fully understood. We aimed to study the prevalence and nature of reflux after POEM and correlate reflux with endoscopy and pH-impedance findings.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study of achalasia patients undergoing POEM since 2014. Data from Eckardt and GERD symptom scores, high-resolution oesophageal manometry (HRM) and gastroscopy were performed pre-procedure and repeated at 1-year follow-up. Data from 24-h pH-impedance, if performed, were also recorded. A standardized questionnaire was used to determine the severity and frequency of heartburn symptoms and the composite score for each patient was calculated.

RESULTS

58 patients underwent POEM between January 2014 and October 2018. The efficacy of POEM at 1 year was 93.0%. We observed reduction of median Integrated Relaxation Pressure (IRP) from 23.5 ± 33.1 mmHg to 13.4 ± 7.71 mmHg (p = 0.005) and mean Eckardt score improved from 6.09 ± 2.43 points to 1.16 ± 1.70 points (p < 0.001). At 1 year, 43.1% (n = 25) had symptomatic reflux. Of the 40 patients who underwent repeated gastroscopy, 60.0% (n = 24) had endoscopic evidence of oesophagitis with seven patients (18%) diagnosed with Grade C or D oesophagitis. 43.1% (n = 25) of patients had pH-impedance done post-POEM off PPIs. 14 patients (56%) had increased acid exposure. Sixteen percent of reflux episodes were acidic and 77.3% were weakly acidic.

CONCLUSION

POEM was an effective treatment for achalasia. However, GERD was common after POEM with incidence of 43% on symptom score, 60% on endoscopy and 56% on pH-impedance test. Post-POEM reflux appeared to be predominantly acidic in nature. Routine surveillance for GERD after POEM is recommended.

Antireflux and Endoscopic Therapies for Barrett Esophagus and Superficial Esophageal Neoplasia

Barrett esophagus (BE), defined as intestinal metaplasia of the distal esophageal mucosa, typically results from chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease and is the only known precursor of esophageal adenocarcinoma. The standard of care for the management of early esophageal neoplasia in the setting of BE has changed drastically over the past 15 years. Further investigation into diagnostic and therapeutic adjuncts will continue to improve our ability to control or cure BE before its advancement to a life-threatening malignancy.

Prevention Strategies for Esophageal Cancer-An Expert Review

Simple Summary

In the last decades, there has been a rapid increase in the incidence and prevalence of esophageal cancer in many countries around the world. Although several important risk factors have been identified, strong evidence-based preventive strategies are still lacking, and the prognosis of patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer remains poor, with an average survival rate of 5 years for only 20%. This review is an attempt to summarize the epidemiology and risk factors of EC and to highlight the unresolved aspects of current prevention strategies in order to plan more fruitful future initiatives aimed at ameliorating the disappointing prognosis of this kind of digestive tumor.

Abstract

In the last 30 years, we have witnessed a rapid increase in the incidence and prevalence of esophageal cancer in many countries around the word. However, despite advancements in diagnostic technologies, the early detection of this cancer is rare, and its prognosis remains poor, with only about 20% of these patients surviving for 5 years. The two major forms are the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), which is particularly frequent in the so-called Asian belt, and the esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), which prevails in Western populations. This review provides a summary of the epidemiological features and risk factors associated with these tumors. Moreover, a major focus is posed on reporting and highlighting the various preventing strategies proposed by the most important international scientific societies, particularly in high-risk populations, with the final aim of detecting these lesions as early as possible and therefore favoring their definite cure. Indeed, we have conducted analysis with attention to the current primary, secondary and tertiary prevention guidelines in both ESCC and EAC, attempting to emphasize unresolved research and clinical problems related to these topics in order to improve our diagnostic strategies and management.

Clinical course of gastroesophageal reflux disease and impact of treatment in symptomatic young patients

In symptomatic young patients with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, early identification of progressive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is critical to prevent long-term complications associated with hiatal hernia, increased esophageal acid and nonacid exposure, release of proinflammatory cytokines, and development of intestinal metaplasia, endoscopically visible Barrett's esophagus, and dysplasia leading to esophageal adenocarcinoma. Progression of GERD may occur in asymptomatic patients and in those under continuous acid-suppressive medication. The long-term side effects of proton-pump inhibitors, chemopreventive agents, and radiofrequency ablation are contentious. In patients with early-stage disease, when the lower esophageal sphincter function is still preserved and before endoscopically visible Barrett's esophagus develops, novel laparoscopic procedures, such as magnetic and electric sphincter augmentation, may have a greater role than conventional surgical therapy. A multidisciplinary approach to GERD by a dedicated team of gastroenterologists and surgeons might impact the patients' lifestyle, the therapeutic choices, and the course of the disease. Biological markers are needed to precisely assess the risk of disease progression and to tailor surveillance, ablation, and management.

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair and Fundoplication for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Antireflux surgery is challenging, and has become even more challenging with the introduction of alternative endoscopic and laparoscopic options for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The Nissen fundoplication remains the gold standard for the durable relief of GERD symptoms and esophagitis. All antireflux procedures have a failure rate, and it is important to minimize factors that are associated with failure. The selection of patients for antireflux surgery as well as the choice of the procedure requires a thorough understanding of esophageal physiology and the pros and cons of various options.

Incidence of Dysplasia in Obese vs Nonobese Patients With Nondysplastic Barrett Esophagus

Background: Obesity is a known independent risk factor for both Barrett esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. However, data about the effect of obesity on the risk of progression from nondysplastic Barrett esophagus to dysplasia or esophageal adenocarcinoma are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether obese patients with nondysplastic Barrett esophagus had a higher incidence of dysplasia development during routine surveillance than nonobese patients. Methods: In a retrospective review, 1,999 patients who had a first diagnosis of nondysplastic Barrett esophagus made by esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) at a single community hospital were tracked to their surveillance EGD 3 to 5 years later to evaluate for dysplasia (low grade, high grade, or adenocarcinoma). We compared the incidence of dysplasia development in obese patients (body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m²) with nonobese patients (BMI <30 kg/m²). Results: The sample population included 1,019 obese patients (51.0%) and 980 nonobese patients (49.0%) with nondysplastic Barrett esophagus. Their mean age was 56.5 ± 11.6 years, 1,228 (61.4%) were male, and 1,853 (92.7%) were Caucasian. At surveillance endoscopy performed at a mean follow-up of 3.7 years after their first EGD, 51 obese patients (incidence of 15.3 cases per 1,000 person-years, 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.5-19.9) and 15 nonobese patients (incidence of 4.6 cases per 1,000 person-years, 95% CI, 2.7-7.4) had developed dysplasia (P=0.0001). Conclusion: We found a significant increase in the incidence of dysplasia development in obese patients with nondysplastic Barrett esophagus at 3- to 5-year follow-up compared to nonobese patients. This finding suggests that more frequent surveillance in obese patients with nondysplastic Barrett esophagus may be warranted for early detection of dysplasia.

Risk of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma After Antireflux Surgery in Patients With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in the Nordic Countries

Importance

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated with a strong and severity-dependent increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Whether antireflux surgery prevents esophageal adenocarcinoma is a matter of uncertainty.

Objectives

To examine whether antireflux surgery is associated with reduced risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma and whether the risk is different between surgically and medically treated patients.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this multinational, population-based retrospective cohort study from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, patients undergoing surgery were followed up for a median of 12.7 years, and a comparison group of patients receiving medication only were followed up for a median of 4.8 years. All patients with a registered diagnosis of GERD (or an associated disorder), including 48 414 individuals undergoing surgery and 894 492 receiving medication only, were included in the study. The study periods varied in the different countries depending on the year of initiation of registration and the date of data retrieval, from January 1, 1964, to December 21, 2014.

Exposures

Antireflux surgery for GERD.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma over time after surgery was compared with that in a corresponding background population using standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) with 95% CIs and with patients with GERD who received medication using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression, providing hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs adjusted for confounders.

Results

In this study of 942 906 patients with GERD, 48 414 underwent antireflux surgery (median [interquartile range] age, 66.0 [58.0-73.0] years; 27 161 male [56.1%]) and 894 492 received medication only (median [interquartile range] age, 71.0 [62.0-78.0] years; 434 035 male [48.6%]). Among patients undergoing surgery, 177 developed esophageal adenocarcinoma. Esophageal adenocarcinoma risk decreased in a time-dependent manner after surgery compared with the background population (5 to <10 years after surgery: SIR, 7.63; 95% CI, 5.42-10.43; ≥15 years after surgery: SIR, 1.34; 95% CI, 0.98-1.80). Among patients with more severe and objectively determined GERD, the SIRs were 10.08 (95% CI, 6.98-14.09) at 5 to less than 10 years after surgery and 1.67 (95% CI, 1.15-2.35) at 15 years or more after surgery. The risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma did not change over time in surgical patients compared with patients who received medication only (5 to <10 years after surgery: HR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.44-2.84; ≥15 years: HR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.28-2.54). The risk remained stable over time in analyses restricted to severe reflux disease (5 to <10 years after surgery: HR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.24-2.63; ≥15 years after surgery: HR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.14-2.51).

Conclusions and Relevance

Medical and surgical treatment of GERD were associated with a similar reduced esophageal adenocarcinoma risk, with the risk decreasing to the same level as that in the background population over time, supporting the hypothesis that effective treatment of GERD might prevent esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Feasibility and effectiveness of laparoscopic transgastric stapler-assisted circumferential esophageal mucosectomy and simultaneous fundoplication in a pig model

Laparoscopic transgastric stapler-assisted mucosectomy (SAM) has been described for minimally invasive circumferential en bloc resection of Barrett's esophagus (BE). Conceivably long-term disease control might be achieved by adding antireflux surgery after resection of BE by SAM. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of combined SAM and fundoplication in one laparoscopic procedure in six pigs. Furthermore, the competence of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) was assessed at baseline, after SAM, and after subsequent laparoscopic fundoplication. At each measuring point reflux measurements were repeated 6 times in each pig. Blue-colored water was infused into the stomach to provoke reflux. Intragastric yield pressure and volume were recorded until drainage of blue solution (DBS) was noted. Time to reflux was measured by DBS and by multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII). In all animals SAM followed by laparoscopic fundoplication was feasible in a single session. A weakening of the GEJ was found after SAM, indicated by decreased yield pressure (11.5 mmHg vs. 8.5 mmHg; P < 0.001), time to DBS (90 seconds vs. 60 seconds; P = 0.008) and MII (80 seconds vs. 33 seconds; P < 0.001). After additional Nissen fundoplication the GEJ competence was restored, with measurements returning to baseline values (time to DBS 99 seconds; P = 0.15; MII 76 seconds; P = 0.84). The yield pressure increased from 11.5 mmHg at baseline to 19.7 mmHg after SAM and fundoplication (P < 0.001). Laparoscopic fundoplication and SAM may be combined in a single laparoscopic session. Although the GEJ was weakened after SAM, Nissen fundoplication restored the GEJ as an effective reflux barrier in this experiment. For clinical validation, the results need to be confirmed in a prospective human trial.

Esophageal Motor Disorders Are a Strong and Independant Associated Factor of Barrett's Esophagus

Background/Aims

Esophageal motor disorder (EMD) has been shown to be associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, the association of EMD with a Barrett's esophagus (BE) is controversial. Our objective was to evaluate whether the presence of EMD was an independent factor associated with BE.

Methods

A retrospective case-control study was conducted in GERD patients who all had oeso-gastroduodenal endoscopy and high-resolution esophageal manometry. The clinical data collected was known or potential risk factors for BE: male gender, smoking and alcohol consumption, age, body mass index, presence of hiatal hernia, frequency, and age of GERD. EMD were classified according to the Chicago classification into: ineffective motor syndrome, fragmented peristalsis and absence of peristalsis, lower esophageal sphincter hypotonia.

Results

Two hundred and one patients (101 in the GERD + BE group and 100 in the GERD without BE) were included. In univariate analysis, male gender, alcohol consumption, presence of hiatal hernia, and EMD appeared to be associated with the presence of BE. In a multivariate analysis, 3 independent factors were identified: the presence of EMD (odds ratio [OR], 3.99; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.71-9.28; P = 0.001), the presence of hiatal hernia (OR, 5.60; 95% CI, 2.45-12.76; P ＜ 0.001), Helicobacter pylori infection (OR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.01-0.84; P = 0.035).

Conclusions

The presence of EMD (particularly ineffective motor syndrome and lower esophageal sphincter hypotonia) is a strong independent associated factor of BE. Searching systematically for an EMD in patients suffering from GERD could be a new strategy to organize the endoscopic follow-up.

Development and Validation of a Model to Determine Risk of Progression of Barrett's Esophagus to Neoplasia

BACKGROUND & AIMS

A system is needed to determine the risk of patients with Barrett's esophagus for progression to high-grade dysplasia (HGD) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). We developed and validated a model to determine of progression to HGD or EAC in patients with BE, based on demographic data and endoscopic and histologic findings at the time of index endoscopy.

METHODS

We performed a longitudinal study of patients with BE at 5 centers in United States and 1 center in Netherlands enrolled in the Barrett's Esophagus Study database from 1985 through 2014. Patients were excluded from the analysis if they had less than 1 year of follow-up, were diagnosed with HGD or EAC within the past year, were missing baseline histologic data, or had no intestinal metaplasia. Seventy percent of the patients were used to derive the model and 30% were used for the validation study. The primary outcome was development of HGD or EAC during the follow-up period (median, 5.9 years). Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method. We assigned a specific number of points to each BE risk factor, and point totals (scores) were used to create categories of low, intermediate, and high risk. We used Cox regression to compute hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals to determine associations between risk of progression and scores.

RESULTS

Of 4584 patients in the database, 2697 were included in our analysis (84.1% men; 87.6% Caucasian; mean age, 55.4 ± 20.1 years; mean body mass index, 27.9 ± 5.5 kg/m²; mean length of BE, 3.7 ± 3.2 cm). During the follow-up period, 154 patients (5.7%) developed HGD or EAC, with an annual rate of progression of 0.95%. Male sex, smoking, length of BE, and baseline-confirmed low-grade dysplasia were significantly associated with progression. Scores assigned identified patients with BE that progressed to HGD or EAC with a c-statistic of 0.76 (95% confidence interval, 0.72-0.80; P < .001). The calibration slope was 0.9966 (P = .99), determined from the validation cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a scoring system (Progression in Barrett's Esophagus score) based on male sex, smoking, length of BE, and baseline low-grade dysplasia that identified patients with BE at low, intermediate, and high risk for HGD or EAC. This scoring system might be used in management of patients.

From Heartburn to Barrett's Esophagus, and Beyond

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects an estimated 20% of the population in the USA, and its prevalence is increasing worldwide. About 10-15% of patients with GERD will develop Barrett's esophagus (BE).

AIMS

The aims of this study were to review the available evidence of the pathophysiology of BE and the role of anti-reflux surgery in the treatment of this disease.

RESULTS

The transformation of the squamous epithelium into columnar epithelium with goblet cells is due to the chronic injury produced by repeated reflux episodes. It involves genetic mutations that in some patients may lead to high-grade dysplasia and cancer. There is no strong evidence that anti-reflux surgery is associated with resolution or improvement in BE, and its indications should be the same as for other GERD patients without BE.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with BE without dysplasia require endoscopic surveillance, while those with low- or high-grade dysplasia should have consideration of endoscopic eradication therapy followed by surveillance. New endoscopic treatment modalities are being developed, which hold the promise to improve the management of patients with BE.

Antireflux Surgery and Barrett's Esophagus: Myth or Reality?

BACKGROUND

It may seem questionable if antireflux surgery still has a role in the management of patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE) in the current era when antireflux surgery is facing a steady decline, obesity is increasing, pharmacologic treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is in its splendor, and endoscopic techniques are used more frequently. It is questionable if patients with BE should be operated to stop GERD and to prevent cancer. The aim of this study was to determine the role of antireflux surgery in patients with BE.

METHODS

Literature review.

RESULTS

The role of antireflux operations is, in fact, very controversial and neglected. BE is a different phenotype of GERD with a distinct pathophysiology linked to severe reflux of bile and acid, due to a marked anatomic disruption of the gastroesophageal barrier. Published series show that a fundoplication adequately controls GERD and symptoms in BE patients. A fundoplication (or even better a bile diversion antireflux procedure) may prevent esophageal adenocarcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, a fundoplication efficiently controls GERD and symptoms in BE patients. A fundoplication (or even better a bile diversion procedure) may also prevent esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Developments in optical imaging for gastrointestinal surgery

To improve outcomes for patients with cancer, in terms of both survival and a reduction in the morbidity and mortality that results from surgical resection and treatment, there are two main areas that require improvement. Accurate early diagnosis of the cancer, at a stage where curative and, ideally, minimally invasive treatment is achievable, is desired as well as identification of tumor margins, lymphatic and distant disease, enabling complete, but not unnecessarily extensive, resection. Optical imaging is making progress in achieving these aims. This review discusses the principles of optical imaging, focusing on fluorescence and spectroscopy, and the current research that is underway in GI tract carcinomas.

Current Concepts in Treatment of Barrett's Esophagus With and Without Dysplasia

BACKGROUND

Around 10-15% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease will develop Barrett's esophagus (BE). The development of novel endoscopic modalities has changed the management of BE in the last decade.

AIM

The aim of this study was to review the current evidence for the treatment of BE with and without dysplasia.

RESULTS

In patients with BE without dysplasia, antireflux surgery should not be suggested as a modality to prevent the malignant transformation of BE, but its indications should be the same as for other patients with gastroesophageal reflux. Endoscopic surveillance at intervals of 3-5 years is recommended for these patients. For patients with BE with low-grade dysplasia, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is the preferred treatment modality, while endoscopic surveillance every 12 months is an acceptable alternative in patients with life-limiting comorbidities. For most patients with BE and high-grade dysplasia, RFA is the preferred treatment strategy. Patients with intramucosal adenocarcinoma (T1a), should be treated with EMR followed by ablative therapy, in order to eradicate the remaining intestinal metaplasia. Endoscopic resection may be suitable for low-risk T1b tumors (well-differentiated, without lymphovascular invasion, and with superficial submucosal invasion); however, further data are necessary to better risk stratify this group.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with BE without dysplasia should undergo endoscopic surveillance every 3-5 years. Endoscopic ablative therapy (RFA) is the preferred treatment modality for dysplastic BE. Patients with T1a adenocarcinoma should be treated with EMR followed by ablative therapy. Low-risk T1b tumors may be suitable for endoscopic resection.

Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Barrett's Esophagus and Early Esophageal Cancer; Summary of the Kelly and Carlos Pellegrini SSAT/SAGES Luncheon Symposium

BACKGROUND

Patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE) are at increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). The incidence of EAC is rising faster than any other cancer.

DISCUSSION

Patients with BE have a 30- to 40-fold increased risk of EAC. In the past 20 years, there have been dramatic advances in our understanding of the incidence and natural history of BE. Endoscopic treatment of BE is evolving. Even early EAC has been treated without esophagectomy and good oncologic results in the modern era.

Barrett’s oesophagus: Current controversies

Oesophageal adenocarcinoma is rapidly increasing in Western countries. This tumour frequently presents late in its course with metastatic disease and has a very poor prognosis. Barrett’s oesophagus is an acquired condition whereby the native squamous mucosa of the lower oesophagus is replaced by columnar epithelium following prolonged gastro-oesophageal reflux and is the recognised precursor lesion for oesophageal adenocarcinoma. There are multiple national and society guidelines regarding screening, surveillance and management of Barrett’s oesophagus, however all are limited regarding a clear evidence base for a well-demonstrated benefit and cost-effectiveness of surveillance, and robust risk stratification for patients to best use resources. Currently the accepted risk factors upon which surveillance intervals and interventions are based are Barrett’s segment length and histological interpretation of the systematic biopsies. Further patient risk factors including other demographic features, smoking, gender, obesity, ethnicity, patient age, biomarkers and endoscopic adjuncts remain under consideration and are discussed in full. Recent evidence has been published to support earlier endoscopic intervention by means of ablation of the metaplastic Barrett’s segment when the earliest signs of dysplasia are detected. Further work should concentrate on establishing better risk stratification and primary and secondary preventative strategies to reduce the risk of adenocarcinoma of the oesophagus.

Lack of incremental effect of histamine receptor antagonists over proton pump inhibitors on the risk of neoplastic progression in patients with Barrett's esophagus: a cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Long-term acid suppression reduces the risk of progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) in patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE). Given recent reports about the harmful effects of using chronic proton pump inhibitors (PPI) there is renewed interest in alternative methods of acid suppression. Hence, we studied the effect of H2 receptor antagonists (H₂ RA) on the risk of progression to neoplasia in our BE cohort.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of patients in our BE registry from 2002 to 2015. Patients' characteristics, endoscopic findings, such as the length of BE, hiatal hernia size and histological findings and patients' use of medications such as PPI, aspirin, H₂ RA, metformin and antihyperlipidemic agents were studied.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 1466 patients with a mean age of 61 ± 13 years. The patients had a predominance of male sex (76.7% [1118/1457]) and Caucasian race (96.6% [1209/1252]). After excluding prevalent high-grade dysplasia (HGD) or EAC, 1025 patients had a median follow up of 43.6 months during which 57 patients progressed to HGD or EAC. PPI use (56% in progressors vs 69% in non-progressors; P = 0.007) but not H₂ RA use (12% progressors vs 19% in non-progressors P = 0.162) was associated with lower risk of neoplastic progression. On multivariate analysis, there was no synergistic effect of addition of H₂ RA to PPI on risk of neoplastic progression to HGD or EAC (relative risk 0.33; confidence intervals 0.05-2.29, P = 0.262).

CONCLUSION

H₂ RA do not seem to have a chemopreventive role in patients with BE.

Evolving management of metaplasia and dysplasia in Barrett's epithelium

Oesophageal cancer affects more than 450000 people worldwide and despite continued medical advancements the incidence of oesophageal cancer is increasing. Oesophageal cancer has a 5 year survival of 15%-25% and now globally attempts are made to more aggressively diagnose and treat Barrett's oesophagus the known precursor to invasive disease. Currently diagnosis the of Barrett's oesophagus is predominantly made after endoscopic visualisation and histopathological confirmation. Minimally invasive techniques are being developed to improve the viability of screening programs. The management of Barrett's oesophagus can vary greatly dependent on the presence and severity of dysplasia. There is no consensus between the major international medical societies to determine and agreed surveillance and intervention pathway. In this review we analysed the current literature to demonstrate the evolving management of metaplasia and dysplasia in Barrett's epithelium.

Esophageal Acid Clearance During Random Swallowing Is Faster in Patients with Barrett's Esophagus Than in Healthy Controls

Background/Aims

Impaired esophageal acid clearance may be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of Barrett’s esophagus. However, few studies have measured acid clearance as such in these patients. In this explorative, cross-sectional study, we aimed to compare esophageal acid clearance and swallowing rate in patients with Barrett’s esophagus to that in healthy controls.

Methods

A total of 26 patients with histology-confirmed Barrett’s esophagus and 12 healthy controls underwent (1) upper endoscopy, (2) an acid clearance test using a pH-impedance probe under controlled conditions including controlled and random swallowing, and (3) an ambulatory pH-impedance measurement.

Results

Compared with controls and when swallowing randomly, patients cleared acid 46% faster (P = 0.008). Furthermore, patients swallowed 60% more frequently (mean swallows/minute: 1.90 ± 0.74 vs 1.19 ± 0.58; P = 0.005), and acid clearance time decreased with greater random swallowing rate (P < 0.001). Swallowing rate increased with lower distal esophageal baseline impedance (P = 0.014). Ambulatory acid exposure was greater in patients (P = 0.033), but clearance times assessed from the ambulatory pH-measurement and acid clearance test were not correlated (all P > 0.3).

Conclusions

More frequent swallowing and thus faster acid clearance in Barrett’s esophagus may constitute a protective reflex due to impaired mucosal integrity and possibly acid hypersensitivity. Despite these reinforced mechanisms, acid clearance ability seems to be overthrown by repeated, retrograde acid reflux, thus resulting in increased esophageal acid exposure and consequently mucosal changes.

Progression of Barrett's esophagus toward esophageal adenocarcinoma: an overview

In Barrett's esophagus, normal squamous epithelium is replaced by a metaplastic columnar epithelium as a consequence of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease. There is a strong association with esophageal adenocarcinoma. In view of the increasing incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma in the western world, it is important that more attention be paid to the progression of Barrett's esophagus toward esophageal adenocarcinoma. Recently, several molecular factors have been identified that contribute to the sequence towards adenocarcinoma. This might help identify patients at risk and detect new targets for the prevention and treatment of esophageal adenocarcinoma in the future.

Antireflux Surgery and Risk of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the preventive effect of antireflux surgery against esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) compared with medical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and to the background population.

BACKGROUND

GERD is causally associated with EAC. Effective symptomatic treatment can be achieved with medication and antireflux surgery; however the possible preventive effect on EAC development remains unclear.

METHODS

This systematic review identified 10 studies comparing EAC risk after antireflux surgery with nonoperated GERD patients, including 7 studies of patients with Barrett's esophagus, and 2 studies comparing EAC risk after antireflux surgery to the background population. A fixed-effects Poisson meta-analysis was conducted to calculate pooled incidence rate ratios (IRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

The pooled IRR in patients after antireflux surgery was 0.76 (95% CI 0.42-1.39) compared with medically treated GERD patients. In patients with Barrett's esophagus, the corresponding IRR was 0.46 (95% CI 0.20-1.08), and 0.26 (95% CI 0.09-0.79) when restricted to publications after 2000. There was no difference in EAC risk between antireflux surgery and medical treatment in GERD patients without known Barrett's esophagus (IRR 0.98, 95% CI 0.72-1.33). The EAC risk remained elevated in patients after antireflux surgery compared with the background population (IRR 10.78, 95% CI 8.48-13.71). Although the clinical heterogeneity of the included studies was high, the statistical heterogeneity was low.

CONCLUSIONS

Antireflux surgery may prevent EAC better than medical therapy in patients with Barrett's esophagus. The EAC risk after antireflux surgery does not seem to revert to that of the background population.

Barrett’s esophagus in 2016: From pathophysiology to treatment

Esophageal complications caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) include reflux esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus (BE). BE is a premalignant condition with an increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). The carcinogenic sequence may progress through several steps, from normal esophageal mucosa through BE to EAC. A recent advent of functional esophageal testing (particularly multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH monitoring) has helped to improve our knowledge about GERD pathophysiology, including its complications. Those findings (when properly confirmed) might help to predict BE neoplastic progression. Over the last few decades, the incidence of EAC has continued to rise in Western populations. However, only a minority of BE patients develop EAC, opening the debate regarding the cost-effectiveness of current screening/surveillance strategies. Thus, major efforts in clinical and research practice are focused on new methods for optimal risk assessment that can stratify BE patients at low or high risk of developing EAC, which should improve the cost effectiveness of screening/surveillance programs and consequently significantly affect health-care costs. Furthermore, the area of BE therapeutic management is rapidly evolving. Endoscopic eradication therapies have been shown to be effective, and new therapeutic options for BE and EAC have emerged. The aim of the present review article is to highlight the status of screening/surveillance programs and the current progress of BE therapy. Moreover, we discuss the recent introduction of novel esophageal pathophysiological exams that have improved the knowledge of the mechanisms linking GERD to BE.

ACG Clinical Guideline: Diagnosis and Management of Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is among the most common conditions encountered by the gastroenterologist. In this document, the American College of Gastroenterology updates its guidance for the best practices in caring for these patients. These guidelines continue to endorse screening of high-risk patients for BE; however, routine screening is limited to men with reflux symptoms and multiple other risk factors. Acknowledging recent data on the low risk of malignant progression in patients with nondysplastic BE, endoscopic surveillance intervals are attenuated in this population; patients with nondysplastic BE should undergo endoscopic surveillance no more frequently than every 3-5 years. Neither routine use of biomarker panels nor advanced endoscopic imaging techniques (beyond high-definition endoscopy) is recommended at this time. Endoscopic ablative therapy is recommended for patients with BE and high-grade dysplasia, as well as T1a esophageal adenocarcinoma. Based on recent level 1 evidence, endoscopic ablative therapy is also recommended for patients with BE and low-grade dysplasia, although endoscopic surveillance continues to be an acceptable alternative. Given the relatively common recurrence of BE after ablation, we suggest postablation endoscopic surveillance intervals. Although many of the recommendations provided are based on weak evidence or expert opinion, this document provides a pragmatic framework for the care of the patient with BE.

[A comparison of medical versus surgical treatment in Barrett's esophagus acid control]

INTRODUCTION

Barrett's oesophagus (BE) is an oesophageal injury caused by gastroesophageal acid reflux. One of the main aims of treatment in BE is to achieve adequate acid reflux control.

OBJECTIVE

To assess acid reflux control in patients with BE based on the therapy employed: medical or surgical.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed in patients with an endoscopic and histological diagnosis of BE. Medical therapy with proton pump inhibitors (PPI) was compared with surgical treatment (Nissen fundoplication). Epidemiological data and the results of pH monitoring (pH time <4, prolonged reflux >5min, DeMeester score) were evaluated in each group. Treatment failure was defined as a pH lower than 4 for more than 5% of the recording time.

RESULTS

A total of 128 patients with BE were included (75 PPI-treated and 53 surgically-treated patients). Patients included in the two comparison groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic characteristics. DeMeester scores, fraction of time pH<4 and the number of prolonged refluxes were significantly lower in patients with fundoplication versus those receiving PPIs (P<.001). Treatment failure occurred in 29% of patients and was significantly higher in those receiving medical therapy (40% vs 13%; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment results were significantly worse with medical treatment than with anti-reflux surgery and should be optimized to improve acid reflux control in BE. Additional evidence is needed to fully elucidate the utility of PPI in this disease.

Barrett esophagus

Although there are many unanswered questions with Barrett esophagus, we can safely say that the incidence is increasing, chemoprevention strategies for the prevention of Barrett metaplasia and its progression to adenocarcinoma may be in the offing, surveillance should be considered for all patients who are discovered to have Barrett esophagus, RFA is the treatment of choice for those with HGD and strongly considered in those with LGD, EMR should be the treatment of choice for patients with nodular high-grade Barrett esophagus, and, finally, vagal-sparing esophagectomy reserved for patients with persistent HGD or a strong suspicion of carcinoma, with consideration of a concomitant fundoplication.

Surgical Management of Barrett's Esophagus

Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus can be a management challenge for the treating physician or surgeon. The goals of therapy include relief of reflux symptoms, induction of histologic regression, and prevention of progression of intestinal metaplasia to dysplasia or invasive carcinoma. Antireflux surgery is effective at achieving these end points, although ongoing follow-up and endoscopic surveillance are essential. In cases of dysplasia or early esophageal neoplasia associated with Barrett's esophagus, endoscopic resection and ablation have supplanted esophagectomy as the standard of care in most cases. Esophageal resection continues to have a role, however, in a minority of appropriately selected candidates.

Risk factors affecting the Barrett's metaplasia-dysplasia-neoplasia sequence

Esophageal adenocarcinoma has the fastest growing incidence rate of any cancer in the United States, and currently carries a very poor prognosis with 5 years relative survival rates of less than 15%. Current curative treatment options are limited to esophagectomy, a procedure that suffers from high complication rates and high mortality rates. Metaplasia of the esophageal epithelium, a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus (BE), is widely accepted as the precursor lesion for adenocarcinoma of the esophagus. Recently, radio-frequency ablation has been shown to be an effective method to treat BE, although there is disagreement as to whether radio-frequency ablation should be used to treat all patients with BE or whether treatment should be reserved for those at high risk for progressing to esophageal adenocarcinoma while continuing to endoscopically survey those with low risk. Recent research has been targeted towards identifying those at greater risk for progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma so that radio-frequency ablation therapy can be used in a more targeted manner, decreasing the total health care cost as well as improving patient outcomes. This review discusses the current state of the literature regarding risk factors for progression from BE through dysplasia to esophageal adenocarcinoma, as well as the current need for an integrated scoring tool or risk stratification system capable of differentiating those patients at highest risk of progression in order to target these endoluminal therapies.

The Durability of Endoscopic Therapy for Treatment of Barrett's Metaplasia, Dysplasia, and Mucosal Cancer After Nissen Fundoplication

INTRODUCTION

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) ± endoscopic resection (EMR) is an established treatment strategy for neoplastic Barrett's and intramucosal cancer. Most patients are managed with proton pump inhibitors. The incidence of recurrent Barrett's metaplasia, dysplasia, or cancer after complete eradication is up to 43 % using this strategy. We hypothesize the addition of fundoplication should result in a lower recurrence rates after complete eradication.

METHODS

Multi-institutional retrospective review of patients undergoing endotherapy followed by Nissen fundoplication

RESULTS

A total of 49 patients underwent RFA ± EMR followed by Nissen fundoplication. Complete remission of intestinal metaplasia (CR-IM) was achieved in 26 (53 %) patients, complete remission of dysplasia (CR-D) in 16 (33 %) patients, and 7 (14 %) had persistent neoplastic Barrett's. After fundoplication, 18/26 (70 %) remained in CR-IM. An additional 10/16 CR-D achieved CR-IM and 4/7 with persistent dysplasia achieved CR-IM. One patient progressed to LGD while no patient developed HGD or cancer.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic therapy for Barrett's dysplasia and/or intramucosal cancer followed by fundoplication results in similar durability of CR-IM to patients being managed with PPIs alone after endoscopic therapy. However, fundoplication may be superior in preventing further progression of disease and the development of cancer. Fundoplication is an important strategy to achieve and maintain CR-IM, and facilitate eradication of persistent dysplasia.

BOB CAT: A Large-Scale Review and Delphi Consensus for Management of Barrett's Esophagus With No Dysplasia, Indefinite for, or Low-Grade Dysplasia

OBJECTIVES

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a common premalignant lesion for which surveillance is recommended. This strategy is limited by considerable variations in clinical practice. We conducted an international, multidisciplinary, systematic search and evidence-based review of BE and provided consensus recommendations for clinical use in patients with nondysplastic, indefinite, and low-grade dysplasia (LGD).

METHODS

We defined the scope, proposed statements, and searched electronic databases, yielding 20,558 publications that were screened, selected online, and formed the evidence base. We used a Delphi consensus process, with an 80% agreement threshold, using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) to categorize the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations.

RESULTS

In total, 80% of respondents agreed with 55 of 127 statements in the final voting rounds. Population endoscopic screening is not recommended and screening should target only very high-risk cases of males aged over 60 years with chronic uncontrolled reflux. A new international definition of BE was agreed upon. For any degree of dysplasia, at least two specialist gastrointestinal (GI) pathologists are required. Risk factors for cancer include male gender, length of BE, and central obesity. Endoscopic resection should be used for visible, nodular areas. Surveillance is not recommended for <5 years of life expectancy. Management strategies for indefinite dysplasia (IND) and LGD were identified, including a de-escalation strategy for lower-risk patients and escalation to intervention with follow-up for higher-risk patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In this uniquely large consensus process in gastroenterology, we made key clinical recommendations for the escalation/de-escalation of BE in clinical practice. We made strong recommendations for the prioritization of future research.

Barrett's oesophagus: treatment with surgery

Barrett's oesophagus develops as a consequence of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and may progress to oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Antireflux surgery is an option for patients with reflux disease, but the efficacy and impact on the natural history of disease in patients with Barrett's oesophagus is controversial. This review addresses the existing data on these important issues.

Barrett's oesophagus: frequency and prediction of dysplasia and cancer

The incidence of oesophageal adenocarcinoma is continuing to increase at an alarming rate in the Western world today. Barrett's oesophagus is a clearly recognized risk factor for the development of oesophageal adenocarcinoma, but the overwhelming majority of patients with Barrett's oesophagus will never develop oesophageal cancer. A number of endoscopic, histologic and epidemiologic risk factors identify Barrett's oesophagus patients at increased risk for progression to high-grade dysplasia and oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Endoscopic factors include segment length, mucosal abnormalities as seemingly trivial as oesophagitis and the 12 to 6 o'clock hemisphere of the oesophagus. Both intestinal metaplasia and low grade dysplasia, the latter only if confirmed by a pathologist with expertise in Barrett's oesophagus pathologic interpretation are the histologic risk factors for progression. Epidemiologic risk factors include ageing, male gender, obesity, and smoking. Factors that may protect against the development of adenocarcinoma include a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and the use of proton pump inhibitors, aspirin/NSAIDs and statins.