Intra-procedural and delayed bleeding after resection of large colorectal lesions: The SCALP study

Sprayable Hydrogel Sealant for Gastrointestinal Wound Shielding

Naturally occurring internal bleeding, such as in stomach ulcers, and complications following interventions, such as polyp resection post-colonoscopy, may result in delayed (5-7 days) post-operative adverse events-such as bleeding, intestinal wall perforation, and leakage. Current solutions for controlling intra- and post-procedural complications are limited in effectiveness. Hemostatic powders only provide a temporary solution due to their short-term adhesion to GI mucosal tissues (less than 48 h). In this study, a sprayable adhesive hydrogel for facile application and sustained adhesion to GI lesions is developed using clinically available endoscopes. Upon spraying, the biomaterial (based on polyethyleneimine-modified Pluronic micelles precursor and oxidized dextran) instantly gels upon contact with the tissue, forming an adhesive shield. In vitro and in vivo studies in guinea pigs, rabbits, and pig models confirm the safety and efficacy of this biomaterial in colonic and acidic stomach lesions. The authors' findings highlight that this family of hydrogels ensures prolonged tissue protection (3-7 days), facilitates wound healing, and minimizes the risk of delayed complications. Overall, this technology offers a readily adoptable approach for gastrointestinal wound management.

Onset Time and Characteristics of Postprocedural Bleeding after Endoscopic Resection of Colorectal Lesions: A Multicenter Retrospective Study

INTRODUCTION

Postprocedural bleeding is a major adverse event after endoscopic resection of colorectal lesions, but the optimal surveillance time after endoscopy is unclear. In this study, we determined onset time and characteristics of postprocedural bleeding events.

METHODS

We retrospectively screened patients who underwent endoscopic resection of colorectal lesions at three German hospitals between 2010 and 2019 for postprocedural bleeding events using billing codes. Only patients who required re-endoscopy were included for analysis. For identified patients, we collected demographic data, clinical courses, characteristics of colorectal lesions, and procedure-related variables. Factors associated with late-onset bleeding were determined by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

From a total of 6,820 patients with eligible billing codes, we identified 113 cases with postprocedural bleeding after endoscopic mucosal (61.9%) or snare resection (38.1%) that required re-endoscopy. The median size of the culprit lesion was 20 mm (interquartile range 14-30 mm). The median onset time of postprocedural bleeding was day 3 (interquartile range: 1-6.5 days), with 48.7% of events occurring within 48 h. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrates that a continued intake of antiplatelet drugs (OR: 3.98, 95% CI: 0.89-10.12, p = 0.025) and a flat morphology of the colorectal lesion (OR: 2.98, 95% CI: 1.08-8.01, p = 0.031) were associated with an increased risk for late postprocedural bleeding (>48 h), whereas intraprocedural bleeding was associated with a decreased risk (OR: 0.12, 95% CI: 0.04-0.50, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Significant postprocedural bleeding can occur up to 18 days after endoscopic resection of colorectal lesions, but was predominantly observed within 48 h. Continued intake of antiplatelet drugs and a flat polyp morphology are associated with risk for late postprocedural bleeding.

Is There a High Risk for GI Bleeding Complications in Patients Undergoing Abdominal Surgery?

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) can cause life-threatening situations. Here, endoscopy is the first-line diagnostic and therapeutic mode in patients with GIB among further therapeutic approaches such as embolization or medical treatment. Although GIB is considered the most common indication for emergency endoscopy in clinical practice, data on GIB in abdominal surgical patients are still scarce.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

For the present study, all emergency endoscopies performed on hospitalized abdominal surgical patients over a 2-year period (1 July 2017-30 June2019) were retrospectively analyzed. Primary endpoint was 30-day mortality. Secondary endpoints were length of hospital stay, cause of bleeding, and therapeutic success of endoscopic intervention.

RESULTS

During the study period, bleeding events with an indication for emergency endoscopy occurred in 2.0% (129/6455) of all surgical inhouse patients, of whom 83.7% (n = 108) underwent a surgical procedure. In relation to the total number of respective surgical procedures during the study period, the bleeding incidence was 8.9% after hepatobiliary surgery, 7.7% after resections in the upper gastrointestinal tract, and 1.1% after colonic resections. Signs of active or past bleeding in the anastomosis area were detected in ten patients (6.9%). The overall 30-day mortality was 7.75%.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of relevant gastrointestinal bleeding events in visceral surgical inpatients was overall rare. However, our data call for critical peri-operative vigilance for bleeding events and underscore the importance of interdisciplinary emergency algorithms.

Risk factors for post-polypectomy bleeding; a retrospective case-control study of a high-volume colonoscopy center

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Post-polypectomy bleeding (PPB) remains an uncommon although serious complication of colonoscopy. The aim of this study is to determine the PPB-prevalence in a secondary care hospital and its associated risk factors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We collected data from 581 patients, with the removal of 1593 polyps between August 2017 and August 2019. A univariate binary logistic regression analysis was conducted retrospectively.

RESULTS

PPB occurred in only 10 cases, representing 1.7% of patients: immediate in 1.2% and delayed in 0.5%. The number of removed polyps per patient [4.5 (SD 2.59) for hemorrhagic vs. 2.74 (SD 1.98) for non-hemorrhagic group] and the propofol dose [232 mg (SD 93.07) for hemorrhagic vs. 133 mg (SD 57.28) for non-hemorrhagic group] were relevant patient-related risk factors. The polyp-based analysis showed the polyp size [18.4 mm (SD 10.44) for hemorrhagic vs. 4.42 mm (SD 4.29) for non-hemorrhagic group], the morphology [wide-based: OR 24.83 (95 % CI 2.76 - 223.44), pedunculated: OR 56.67 (95 % CI 5.03 - 638.29)], the location at ileocecal valve [OR 20.48, 95 % CI 1.81 - 231.97)], and the polypectomy method [hot snare piecemeal with epinephrine injection: OR 75.38 (95 % CI 7.67 - 741.21)] as significant risk factors for PPB, too.

CONCLUSIONS

The low rate of PPB confirms the safety of the procedure in non-tertiary, high-volume colonoscopy centers. The number of polyps removed per patient, the polyp size, morphology and location, as well as the sedation dose and the method of polypectomy were shown as relevant risk factors.

Postoperative Hospital Outcomes of Elective Surgery for Nonmalignant Colorectal Polyps: Does the Burden Justify the Indication?

INTRODUCTION

Despite the increasing availability of advanced endoscopic resections and its favorable safety profile, surgery for nonmalignant colorectal polyps has continually increased. We sought to evaluate readmission rates and outcomes of elective surgery for nonmalignant colorectal polyps on a national level in the United States.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmissions Database (2010-2014 [International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision] and 2016-2018 [International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision]) was used to identify all adult subjects (age ≥18 years) who underwent elective surgical resection of nonmalignant colorectal polyps. Multivariable analyses were performed for predictors of postoperative morbidity and 30-day readmission.

RESULTS

Elective surgery for nonmalignant colorectal polyps was performed in 108,468 subjects from 2010 to 2014 and in 54,956 subjects from 2016 to 2018, most of whom were laparoscopic. Postoperative morbidity and 30-day readmission rates were 20.5% and 8.5% from 2010 to 2014, and 13.0% and 7.6% from 2016 to 2018, respectively. Index admission mortality rates were 0.3-0.4%; mortality rates were higher in those with postoperative morbidity. Multivariable analyses revealed that male sex, ≥3 comorbidities, insurance status, and open surgery predicted an increased risk of both postoperative morbidity and 30-day readmission. In addition, postoperative morbidity (2010-2014 [odds ratio 1.58; 95% confidence interval 1.44-1.74] and 2016-2018 [odds ratio 1.55; 95% confidence interval 1.37-1.75]) predicted early readmission.

DISCUSSION

In this investigation of national practices, elective surgery for nonmalignant colorectal polyps remains common. There is considerable risk of adverse postoperative outcomes, which highlights the importance of increasing awareness of the range of endoscopic resections and referring subjects to expert endoscopy centers.

Anticoagulation and antiplatelet management in gastrointestinal endoscopy: A review of current evidence

The role of endoscopic procedures, in both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes is continually expanding and evolving rapidly. In this context, endoscopists will encounter patients prescribed on anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications frequently. This poses an increased risk of intraprocedural and delayed gastrointestinal bleeding. Thus, there is now greater importance on optimal pre, peri and post-operative management of anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet therapy to minimise the risk of post-procedural bleeding, without increasing the risk of a thromboembolic event as a consequence of therapy interruption. Currently, there are position statements and guidelines from the major gastroenterology societies. These are available to assist endoscopists with an evidenced-based systematic approach to anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet management in endoscopic procedures, to ensure optimal patient safety. However, since the publication of these guidelines, there is emerging evidence not previously considered in the recommendations that may warrant changes to our current clinical practices. Most notably and divergent from current position statements, is a growing concern regarding the use of heparin bridging therapy during warfarin cessation and its associated risk of increased bleeding, suggestive that this practice should be avoided. In addition, there is emerging evidence that anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet therapy may be safe to be continued in cold snare polypectomy for small polyps (< 10 mm).

Endoscopic clipping for gastrointestinal bleeding: emergency and prophylactic indications

Endoscopic clipping has become a common practice among endoscopists. Several models are available, most frequently being introduced via the working channel of the endoscope (through-the-scope); however, larger clips can also be mounted onto the distal tip of the endoscope (over-the-scope). The main indications for endoclip placement include providing effective mechanical hemostasis for bleeding lesions and allowing endoscopic closure of gastrointestinal perforations. Endoclips can also be used prophylactically after endoscopic resection; however, this practice is still controversial. This review discusses the main indications for endoscopic clipping in the esophagus, stomach, duodenum and colon to manage acute bleeding lesions, and the criteria to be used in the prevention of delayed post-polypectomy bleeding.

Polypectomy Techniques

Polyps in the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract can be premalignant or malignant lesions that can be treated endoscopically in early stages to prevent morbidity and more invasive procedures. This article critically reviews the techniques available and provides recommendations for endoscopic polypectomy.

Effect of prophylactic clipping on adverse events after colorectal endoscopic resection: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The effect of prophylactic hemoclip placement on the risk of adverse events such as delayed bleeding and perforation after colorectal polypectomy is still unclear. Its efficiency has not been confirmed and there is no consensus on the usefulness of prophylactic clipping.

AIM

To assess the efficacy of prophylactic clipping on adverse events after endoscopic resection of colorectal polyps.

METHODS

We performed a search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, and Wanfang databases for studies comparing the effect of clipping vs no clipping on adverse events following endoscopic resection. The quality of the included studies was performed. Statistical analysis was performed using Revman5.3 software.

RESULTS

We identified seven eligible randomized trials from the database search, involving a total of 3777 patients, which included 1880 patients who used prophylactic hemoclips (clip group) and 1897 who did not use (no clip group). Meta-analysis results showed that the delayed bleeding rate of the clip group was significantly lower than that of the no clip group (2.55% vs 4.48%, P = 0.01, 95%CI: 0.40-0.80). There was no significant difference in postoperative perforation rate between the clip group and no clip group (0.66% vs 1.04%, P = 0.42, 95%CI: 0.21-1.92). Subgroup analysis showed that the prophylactic effect on delayed bleeding was mainly observed in polyps with a size of ≥ 20 mm, and the preventive effect in polyps less than 20 mm was poor (RR = 1.18, 95%CI: 0.62-2.23, P = 0.62; RR = 0.47, 95%CI: 0.29-0.77, P = 0.003). There was no significant difference in the effect of prophylactic hemoclips on the prevention of delayed bleeding after resection of proximal and distal colonic polyps (RR = 0.57, 95%CI: 0.18-1.80, P = 0.34; RR = 0.78, 95%CI: 0.06-10.33, P = 0.85).

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic hemoclips can prevent the occurrence of delayed bleeding after colorectal polypectomy, which is mainly observed in the lesions ≥ 20 mm. In addition, hemoclips have little preventive effect on postoperative perforation.