Endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections

Early Endoscopic Interventions for Pancreatic Necrosis: Indications, Technique, and Outcomes

Endoscopic transmural drainage is usually performed for symptomatic well-encapsulated walled-off necrosis (WON) that usually develops in the delayed phase (> 4 weeks after disease onset) of acute necrotising pancreatitis (ANP). Endoscopic drainage is usually not advocated in the early (< 4 weeks after disease onset) stage of illness because of the risk of complications due to an incompletely formed encapsulating wall and poor demarcation of viable from necrotic tissue. However, emerging data from expert tertiary care centres over the last few years shows that the early endoscopic transluminal drainage approach is effective and safe. The development of lumen-apposing metal stents and better accessories for endoscopic necrosectomy has fuelled the expansion of indications of endoscopic drainage of pancreatic necrosis. However, early endoscopic drainage is associated with higher rates of adverse events; therefore, careful patient selection is paramount. This article will review the current indications, techniques and outcomes of early endoscopic transluminal drainage in pancreatic necrotic collections.

Safety and efficacy of lumen-apposing metal stents and double-pigtail plastic stents for endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of walled-off necrosis; a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients with walled-off necrosis (WON) are still challenging to treat safely and effectively. Recently, double-pigtail plastic stents (DPS), bi-flanged metallic stents (BFMS), and lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) have been employed with endoscopic ultrasound-guided (EUS-guided) drainage. However, there is little solid evidence to support the effectiveness and safety of using stents. This study aims to compare the outcomes of the LAMS and the PS.

METHOD

Till July 2022, a thorough database search was done, and studies that met the criteria were chosen. By using the RevMan software, the technical and clinical success and other secondary outcomes were calculated. Subgroup analysis was performed between the LAMS and the BFMS.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies (two randomized controlled trials and thirteen observational) with 687 patients receiving metal stents and 771 patients receiving plastic stents were selected for final analysis. There was no significant risk of bias or publication bias. The odds ratios (OR) for technical and clinical success were 0.36 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.08, 1.52) and 2.26 (95%CI 1.62, 3.15), respectively. The OR for overall adverse events was 0.74 (95% CI 0.41, 1.34). In subgroup analysis, the LAMS and the BFMS showed the same outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Compared to DPS, LAMS had better clinical outcomes and fewer side effects when treating patients with WON.

Endoscopic Versus Laparoscopic Drainage of Pancreatic Pseudocysts: a Cost-effectiveness Analysis

BACKGROUND

Both endoscopic and laparoscopic interventions have a high therapeutic success rate in the management of symptomatic pancreatic pseudocysts; however, neither has been established as the gold standard.

METHODS

A decision tree analysis was performed to examine the costs and outcomes of intervening on pancreatic pseudocysts endoscopically versus laparoscopically. Within the model, a theoretical patient cohort was separated into two treatment arms: endoscopic drainage and laparoscopic drainage. Variables within the model were selected from the published literature. Medicare reimbursements rates (US$) were used to represent costs accumulated during a 3-month perioperative period. Effectiveness was characterized by quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). A willingness-to-pay of $100,000 per 1 year of perfect health (1 QALY) gained was used as the cost-effectiveness threshold. The model was validated using one-way, two-way, and probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

Endoscopic management of symptomatic pancreatic pseudocysts was the dominant strategy, producing 0.22 QALYs more while saving $23,976.37 in comparison to laparoscopic management. This result was further validated by one-way, two-way, and probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients presenting with symptomatic pancreatic pseudocysts amenable to either endoscopic or laparoscopic management, endoscopic drainage should be considered first-line therapy.

Trans-gastric and trans-abdominal percutaneous drainage of acute peripancreatic fluid infected collections: A retrospective analysis

Background

Acute pancreatitis is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases. Approximately 20% of the patients develop peripancreatic collections. Step-up management it's now the best approach with less rate of morbidity and mortality compared with open or minimally invasive surgery. Percutaneous management could reach a success rate between 50 and 76%. Our study shows the outcomes of trans-gastric versus transabdominal percutaneous drainage in cases of acute peripancreatic fluid infected collections in the absence of interventionist endoscopy.

Methods

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was conducted. All the patients older than 18 years old that underwent percutaneous drainage between January 2010–December 2021 were included. Analysis and description of outcomes such as mortality, complications, and avoidance of surgical procedures was performed.

Results

18 patients underwent percutaneous drainage. 66.67% of patients were male. Mean age was 52.55 ± 22.06 years. Mean weight was 74.43 ± 15.25 kg. Mean size of peripancreatic collections 118.4 ± 49.12 mm. Wall-off necrosis was present in 33.33%. Trans-gastric approach was performed in 50% of the cases, the rest was trans-abdominal. No mortality was evidenced after 30 days of follow up. After trans-gastric percutaneous drainage, all patients avoided surgical open or laparoscopic procedure.

Conclusion

Standardized step-up approach shows increased rates of success in percutaneous drainage of peripancreatic collections. Our case series shows a high rate of success in terms of avoidance any surgical procedure with no mortality after trans-abdominal and trans-gastric percutaneous drainage. Nevertheless, further prospective studies with higher sample size are needed.

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Trans-gastric and trans-abdominal percutaneous drainage of peripancreatic infected collections are safe and feasible procedures.

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In cases of no access to interventional endoscopy, percutaneous drainage remains to be a safe procedure.

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Multidisciplinary approach leads to good outcomes with less rate of morbidity and mortality.

Management of pancreatic fluid collections

Pancreatic fluid collections often develop as a complication of acute pancreatitis but can be seen in a variety of conditions including chronic pancreatitis, trauma, malignancy or post-operatively. It is important to classify a pancreatic fluid collection in order to optimize treatment strategies and management. Most interventions are targeted towards the management of delayed complications of pancreatitis, including pancreatic pseudocysts and walled-off necrosis (WON), which often develop days to weeks after the initial episode of pancreatitis. Surgical, percutaneous, and endoscopic interventions are all possible methods for treatment of pancreatic fluid collections, however endoscopic drainage with endoscopic ultrasound has become first-line. Advances within endoscopic drainage strategies have also led to innovative changes in the specific stents used for treatment, with possible options including double pigtail plastic stents, fully covered self-expanding metal stents and lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS).

Endoscopic Versus Laparoscopic Treatment for Pancreatic Pseudocysts: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic treatment for pancreatic pseudocysts (PPCs) compared with laparoscopic treatment.

METHODS

The Embase, Medline, Cochrane Library, Web of Science databases, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Chinese citation database, and WANFANG database were systematically searched to identify all comparative trials investigating endoscopic versus laparoscopic treatment for PPC. The main outcome measures included treatment success rate, adverse events, recurrence rate, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and hospital stay.

RESULTS

Six studies with 301 participants were included. The results suggested that there was no difference in rates of treatment success (odds ratio [OR], 0.90; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40-2.01; P = 0.79), adverse events (OR, 0.80, 95% CI, 0.38-1.70; P = 0.57), or recurrence (OR, 0.55, 95% CI, 0.22-1.40; P = 0.21) between endoscopic and laparoscopic treatments. However, the endoscopic group exhibited reduced operation time (weighted mean difference [WMD], -67.11; 95% CI, -77.27 to -56.96; P < 0.001), intraoperative blood loss (WMD, -65.23; 95% CI, -103.38 to -27.08; P < 0.001), and hospital stay (WMD, -2.45; 95% CI, -4.74 to -0.16; P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic treatment might be suitable for PPC patients.

Comparison Between Lumen-Apposing Metal Stents and Plastic Stents in Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Drainage of Pancreatic Fluid Collection: A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to explore efficacy and safety between LAMSs (lumen-apposing metal stents) and DPPSs (double-pigtail plastic stents) in endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage for pancreatic fluid collections.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched to identify relevant studies published until July 20, 2020.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies were identified in this study. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage with LAMS has higher clinical success (90.01% vs 82.56%) (odds ratio [OR], 2.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.79-3.33; P < 0.00001), less recurrence (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.29-0.68; P = 0.0002), and fewer additional interventions (OR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.211-0.55; P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between LAMS and DPPS in technical success (97.45% vs 97.38%) (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.50-1.70; P = 0.80), adverse events (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.41-2.09; P = 0.84), stent-related adverse events (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.39-1.54; P = 0.47), and bleeding (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 0.57-3.28; P = 0.42). Lumen-apposing metal stents have slightly more perforations (OR, 7.10; 95% CI, 1.22-41.30; P = 0.03) in studies of walled-off necrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Lumen-apposing metal stents have the advantage of higher clinical success, less recurrence, and fewer additional interventions. However, LAMS may increase perforation for walled-off necrosis.

Pancreatic fluid collections: Clinical manifestations, diagnostic evaluation and management

Pancreatic fluid collections (PFC), including pancreatic pseudocysts and walled-off pancreatic necrosis, are a known complication of severe acute pancreatitis. A majority of the PFCs remain asymptomatic and resolve spontaneously. However, some PFCs persist and can become symptomatic. Persistent PFCs can also cause further complications such as the gastric outlet, intestinal, or biliary obstruction and infection. Surgical interventions are indicated for the drainage of symptomatic sterile and infected PFCs. Management of PFCs has evolved from a primarily surgical or percutaneous approach to a less invasive endoscopic approach. Endoscopic interventions are associated with improved outcomes with lesser chances of complications, faster recovery time, and lower healthcare utilization. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of PFCs using lumen-apposing metal stents has become the preferred approach for the management of symptomatic and complicated PFCs.

Various Endoscopic Techniques for Treatment of Consequences of Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis: Practical Updates for the Endoscopist

Despite great progress in acute pancreatitis (AP) treatment over the last 30 years, treatment of the consequences of acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP) remains controversial. While numerous reports on minimally invasive treatment of the consequences of ANP have been published, several aspects of interventional treatment, particularly endoscopy, are still unclear. In this article, we attempt to discuss these aspects and summarize the current knowledge on endoscopic therapy for pancreatic necrosis. Endotherapy has been shown to be a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment modality in patients with consequences of ANP. The evolution of endoscopic techniques has made endoscopic drainage more effective and reduced the use of other minimally invasive therapies for pancreatic necrosis.

Endoscopic versus percutaneous drainage of post-operative peripancreatic fluid collections following pancreatic resection

BACKGROUND

Post-operative peripancreatic fluid collection (PFC) is a common complication following pancreatic resection which can be managed with endoscopic or percutaneous drainage.

METHODS

Patients who underwent either endoscopic or percutaneous drainage of post-operative PFC were extracted from a prospectively-maintained database. The two groups were matched for surgery type, presence of a surgical drain and timing of drainage.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine matched patients were identified in each group with a median age of 62 years. For primary drainage, technical success was achieved in almost all patients in both endoscopic and percutaneous groups (100% and 97%, p = NS); clinical success was achieved in 67% and 59%, respectively (p = 0.63). At least one "salvage" drainage procedure was required in 13 endoscopic patients versus 16 in the percutaneous group. Clinical success was achieved following the first salvage. Procedure in 85% of the endoscopic patients and 88% of the percutaneous patients (p = 0.62). Stent/drain duration (59 vs 33 days, p < 0.001) and number of post-procedural CT studies (2 vs 1, p = 0.02) were significantly higher in the endoscopic group. There was no difference in length of stay, complication, or recurrence between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic drainage of post-operative PFC appears to be safe and effective with comparable success rates and outcomes to percutaneous drainage.

Advanced endoscopic interventions on the pancreas and pancreatic ductal system: a primer for radiologists

In recent years, technological advancements including endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance and availability of specifically designed stents further expanded the indications and possibilities of interventional endoscopy. Although technically demanding and associated with non-negligible morbidity, advanced pancreatic endoscopic techniques now provide an effective minimally invasive treatment for complications of acute and chronic pancreatitis.

Aiming to provide radiologists with an adequate familiarity, this pictorial essay reviews the indications, techniques, results and pre- and post-procedural cross-sectional imaging appearances of advanced endoscopic interventions on the pancreas and pancreatic ductal system. Most of the emphasis is placed on multidetector CT and MRI findings before and after internal drainage of pseudocysts and walled-off necrosis via EUS-guided endoscopic cystostomy, and on stent placement to relieve strictures or disruption of the main pancreatic duct, respectively in patients with chronic pancreatitis and disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome.

[Pancreatic duct stenting in the treatment of acute pancreatitis]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of pancreatic duct stenting on the results of treatment of acute pancreatitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Analysis included 99 patients with acute pancreatitis. Endoscopic stentingwas appliedin the study group, conventional approach - in the control group.

RESULTS

Pancreatic duct stenting at theearly stages ofacute pancreatitis results decreased level of enzyme toxemia and manifestations of systemic inflammatory response.

CONCLUSION

Stenting interrupts course of pathological process and minimizes the possibility of transition of aseptic to infected pancreatic necrosis. Therefore, reduced early mortalityis observed.

Endoscopic management of complications of acute pancreatitis: an update on the field

Acute pancreatitis is a frequent, nonmalignant gastrointestinal disorder leading to hospital admission. For its severe form and subsequent complications, minimally invasive and endoscopic procedures are being used increasingly, and are subject to rapid technical advances. Areas covered: Based on a systematic literature search in PubMed, medline, and Web-of-Science, we discuss the currently available treatment strategies for endoscopic therapy of pancreatic pseudocysts, walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WON), and disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome (DPDS), and compare the efficacy and safety of plastic and metal stents. A special focus is placed on studies directly comparing different stent types, including lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) and clinical outcomes when draining pseudocysts or WONs. The clinical significance and endoscopic treatment options for DPDS are also discussed. Expert commentary: Endoscopic therapy has become the treatment of choice for different types of pancreatic and peripancreatic collections, the majority of which, however, require no intervention. The use of LAMS has facilitated drainage and necrosectomy in patients with WON or pseudocysts. Serious complications remain a problem in spite of high technical and clinical success rates. DPDS is an increasingly recognized problem in the presence of pseudocysts or WONs but evidence for endoscopic stent placement in this situation remains insufficient.

Algorithm for the multidisciplinary management of hemorrhage in EUS-guided drainage for pancreatic fluid collections

Pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs), common sequelae of acute or chronic pancreatitis, are broadly classified as pancreatic pseudocysts or walled-off necrosis according to the revised Atlanta classification. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage is often considered a standard first-line therapy preferable to surgical or interventional radiology approaches for patients with symptomatic PFC. EUS-guided drainage is effective and successful; it has a technical success rate of 90%-100% and a clinical success rate of 85%-98%. Recent studies have shown a 5%-30% adverse events (AEs) rate for the procedure. The most common AEs include infection, hemorrhage, perforation and stent migration. Hemorrhage, a severe and sometimes deadly outcome, requires a well-organized and appropriate treatment strategy. However, few studies have reported the integrated management of hemorrhage during EUS-guided drainage of PFC. Establishing a practical therapeutic strategy is an essential and significant step in standardized management. The aim of this review is to describe the current situation of EUS-guided drainage of PFCs, including the etiology and treatment of procedure-related bleeding as well as current problems and future perspectives. We propose a novel and meaningful algorithm for systematically managing hemorrhage events. To our limited knowledge, a multidisciplinary algorithm for managing EUS-guided drainage for PFC-related bleeding has not been previously reported.

Postoperative pancreatic fistula: a review of traditional and emerging concepts

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains the major cause of morbidity after pancreatic resection, affecting up to 41% of cases. With the recent development of a consensus definition of POPF, there has been a large number of reports examining various risk factors, prediction models, and mitigation strategies for this costly complication. Despite these strategies, the rates of POPF have not significantly diminished. Here, we review the literature and evidence regarding both traditional and emerging concepts in POPF prediction, prevention, and management. In particular, we review the evidence for the association between postoperative pancreatitis and POPF, and present a novel proposed mechanism for the development of POPF.

Anesthesia for Routine and Advanced Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Procedures

This article aims to detail the breadth and depth of advanced upper gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures. It will focus on sedation and airway management concerns pertaining to this emerged and emerging class of minimally invasive interventions. The article will also cover endoscopic hemostasis, endoscopic resection, stenting and Barrett eradication therapy plus endoscopic ultrasound. It additionally will address the nuances of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and new natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery procedures including endoscopic cystgastrostomy and the per-oral endoscopic myotomy procedure.

Comparative evaluation of two porcine ex vivo models for training in endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections

INTRODUCTION

 EUS-guided cystoenterostomy (EUCE), a technique used for the drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts and peri-enteric collections, requires specific skills for which dedicated models are needed. Based on a compact EASIE model (Erlangen Active Simulator for Interventional Endoscopy), we developed two ex vivo porcine models of retrogastric cysts and evaluated learning performance within the frame of a structured training program.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

 The first model was made of porcine colon (i. e. "natural cyst"), the second one with an ostomy bag (i. e. "artificial cyst"). All procedures were achieved with an EUS scope under fluoroscopy. Both models were evaluated prospectively over a 2-day session involving 14 students and five experts. The primary end point was overall satisfaction with each model.

RESULTS

 The "natural cyst" and "artificial cyst" were prepared within 10 and 16.5 minutes ( P  = 0.78), respectively. Model grading showed a non-significant trend for overall satisfaction in favor of the artificial model ( P  = 0.06). As secondary end points, difference was not significant for impression of realism ( P  = 0.75) whereas the "artificial cyst" was graded significantly better by experts and students in terms of ability to teach procedural steps ( P  = 0.01) and ease of puncture ( P  = 0.03). Moreover, experts considered the ability to improve students' proficiency to be superior with the "artificial cyst" ( P  = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

 Both "artificial" and "natural cysts" are efficient for EUCE training in terms of overall satisfaction. However, the "artificial cyst" model appears to make the procedure easier with a higher ability to teach procedural steps and improve the students' proficiency. Larger applications of this model are needed to validate as a standard of training.

Lumen apposing metal stents for pancreatic fluid collections: Recognition and management of complications

For patients recovering from acute pancreatitis, the development of a pancreatic fluid collection (PFC) predicts a more complex course of recovery, and introduces difficult management decisions with regard to when, whether, and how the collection should be drained. Most PFCs resolve spontaneously and drainage is indicated only in pseudocysts and walled-off pancreatic necrosis when the collections are causing symptoms and/or local complications such as biliary obstruction. Historical approaches to PFC drainage have included surgical (open or laparoscopic cystgastrostomy or pancreatic debridement), and the placement of percutaneous drains. Endoscopic drainage techniques have emerged in the last several years as the preferred approach for most patients, when local expertise is available. Lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) have recently been developed as a tool to facilitate potentially safer and easier endoscopic drainage of pancreatic fluid collections, and less commonly, for other indications, such as gallbladder drainage. Physicians considering LAMS placement must be aware of the complications most commonly associated with LAMS including bleeding, migration, buried stent, stent occlusion, and perforation. Because of the patient complexity associated with severe pancreatitis, management of pancreatic fluid collections can be a complex and multidisciplinary endeavor. Successful and safe use of LAMS for patients with pancreatic fluid collections requires that the endoscopist have a full understanding of the potential complications of LAMS techniques, including how to recognize and manage expected complications.

Fluoroscopy-assisted vs fluoroless endoscopic ultrasound-guided transmural drainage of pancreatic fluid collections: A comparative study

INTRODUCTION

The need for fluoroscopy guidance in patients undergoing endoscopic ultrasound-guided transmural drainage (EUS-TMD) of peripancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) remains unclear.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to compare general outcomes of EUS-TMD of PFCs under fluoroscopy (F) vs fluoroless (FL).

METHODS

This is a comparative study with a retrospective analysis of a prospective and consecutive inclusion database at a tertiary centre, from 2009 to 2015. All patients were symptomatic pseudocyst (PSC) and walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WON). Two groups were assigned depending on availability of fluoroscopy. The groups were heterogeneous in terms of their demographic characteristics, PFCs and procedure. The main outcome measures included technical and clinical success, incidences, adverse events (AEs), and follow-up.

RESULTS

Fifty EUS-TMD of PFCs from 86 EUS-guided drainages were included during the study period. Group F included 26 procedures, PSC 69.2%, WON 30.8%, metal stents 61.5% (46.1% lumen-apposing stent) and plastic stents 38.5%. Group FL included 24 procedures, PSC 37.5%, WON 62.5%, and metal stents 95.8% (lumen-apposing stents). Technical success was 100% in both groups, and clinical success was similar (F 88.5%, FL 87.5%). Technical incidences and intra-procedure AEs were only described in group F (7.6% and 11.5%, respectively) and none in group FL. Procedure time was less in group FL (8min, p=0.0341).

CONCLUSIONS

Fluoroless in the EUS-TMD of PFCs does not involve more technical incidences or intra-procedure AEs. Technical and clinical success was similar in the two groups.

The role of endoscopic intervention in the management of inflammatory pancreatic fluid collections

Pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) are a frequent complication of pancreatitis, or less commonly, pancreatic trauma or surgery. The revised Atlanta Classification categorizes PFCs as acute or chronic, with further subclassification of acute collections into acute peripancreatic collections and acute necrotic collections and of chronic fluid collections into pseudocysts and walled-off pancreatic necrosis. Acute PFCs are generally only subjected to an intervention when they are infected and not responding to antibiotics and are not managed endoscopically. Chronic PFCs, both pseudocysts and walled-off pancreatic necrosis, require intervention only when symptomatic or enlarging over time. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage has become the mainstay of management for chronic PFCs that require intervention. Developments in medical devices over the past few years have significantly simplified and shortened the duration of the procedure itself, but the optimum choice of stent in different clinical scenarios remains to be defined, as does the place of endoscopic necrosectomy. To optimize outcomes, these patients should undergo a careful preprocedure workup and discussion in a multidisciplinary environment and procedures should be carried out in high-volume pancreatic units.

Management of acute pancreatitis in Japan: Analysis of nationwide epidemiological survey

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory disease of the exocrine pancreas. In Japan, nationwide epidemiological surveys have been conducted every 4 to 5 years by the Research Committee of Intractable Pancreatic Diseases, under the support of the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare of Japan. We reviewed the results of the nationwide surveys focusing on the severity assessment and changes in the therapeutic strategy for walled-off necrosis. The severity assessment system currently used in Japan consists of 9 prognostic factors and the imaging grade on contrast-enhanced computed tomography. By univariate analysis, all of the 9 prognostic factors were associated with AP-related death. A multivariate analysis identified 4 out of the 9 prognostic factors (base excess or shock, renal failure, systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria, and age) that were associated with AP-related death. Receiver-operating characteristics curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.82 for these 4 prognostic factors and 0.84 for the 9 prognostic factors, suggesting the comparable utility of these 4 factors in the severity assessment. We also examined the temporal changes in treatment strategy for walled-off necrosis in Japan according to the 2003, 2007, and 2011 surveys. Step-up approaches and less-invasive endoscopic therapies were uncommon in 2003 and 2007, but became popular in 2011. Mortality has been decreasing in patients who require intervention for walled-off necrosis. In conclusion, the nationwide survey revealed the comparable utility of 4 prognostic factors in the severity assessment and the increased use of less-invasive, step-up approaches with improved clinical outcomes in the management of walled-off necrosis.

Endoscopic computerized tomography guided percutaneous trans-gastric drainage: A case report on this hybrid approach

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Comparisons of endoscopic Computerized tomography guided percutaneous trans-gastric drainage and EUS-guided drainage reveal that endoscopic Computerized tomography guided percutaneous trans-gastric drainage is easier for surgeons to perform, takes less time, and causes less discomfort to the patient.

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Percutaneous transgastric drainage is more comfortable than EUS-guided drainage.

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The puncture can be performed safely because space is eliminated by fixation of the gastric and abdominal walls.

Percutaneous drainage, percutaneous transgastric drainage, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided transgastric drainage are primarily utilized for drainage of fluid collections dorsal to the stomach. Percutaneous transgastric drainage is performed with computed tomography (CT) guidance, but it requires inflation of a balloon in the stomach, and gastric peristalsis makes it difficult to ensure a reliable puncture route via the stomach. Using endoscopy-assisted CT-guidance, we were able to safely and effectively perform percutaneous transgastric drainage.

A 69-year-old man underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy for cancer of the inferior section of the common bile duct. Postoperative day 5, the amylase value of the drainage fluid was 1,232 IU/L, we diagnosed a pancreatic fistula developed as a result of pancreaticojejunal anastomotic failure and we performed drainage at the drain which was placed in the foramen of Winslow intraoperatively, however fluid collection dorsal to the stomach was detected on a follow-up abdominal CT scan, and the fluid was a high value of amylase, we judged the drain was not working well and the pancreatic fistula occured. Endoscopy-assisted, CT-guided percutaneous transgastric drainage was therefore performed, and the pancreatic fistula was successfully closed the fistula.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Drainage without Fluoroscopic Guidance for Extraluminal Complicated Cysts

Background. Endoscopic ultrasound- (EUS-) guided drainage is generally performed under fluoroscopic guidance. However, improvements in endoscopic and EUS techniques and experience have led to questions regarding the usefulness of fluoroscopy. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of EUS-guided drainage of extraluminal complicated cysts without fluoroscopic guidance. Methods. Patients who had undergone nonfluoroscopic EUS-guided drainage of extraluminal complicated cysts were enrolled. Drainage was performed via a transgastric, transduodenal, or transrectal approach. Single or double 7 Fr double pigtail stents were inserted. Results. Seventeen procedures were performed in 15 patients in peripancreatic fluid collections (n = 13) and pelvic abscesses (n = 4). The median lesion size was 7.1 cm (range: 2.8-13.0 cm), and the mean time spent per procedure was 26.2 ± 9.8 minutes (range: 16-50 minutes). Endoscopic drainage was successful in 16 of 17 (94.1%) procedures. There were no complications. All patients experienced symptomatic improvement and revealed partial to complete resolution according to follow-up computed tomography findings. Two patients developed recurrent cysts that were drained during repeat procedures, with eventual complete resolution. Conclusion. EUS-guided drainage without fluoroscopic guidance is a technically feasible, safe, and effective procedure for the treatment of extraluminal complicated cysts.

Management of pancreatic fluid collections: A comprehensive review of the literature

Pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) are a frequent complication of pancreatitis. It is important to classify PFCs to guide management. The revised Atlanta criteria classifies PFCs as acute or chronic, with chronic fluid collections subdivided into pseudocysts and walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN). Establishing adequate nutritional support is an essential step in the management of PFCs. Early attempts at oral feeding can be trialed in patients with mild pancreatitis. Enteral feeding should be implemented in patients with moderate to severe pancreatitis. Jejunal feeding remains the preferred route of enteral nutrition. Symptomatic PFCs require drainage; options include surgical, percutaneous, or endoscopic approaches. With the advent of newer and more advanced endoscopic tools and expertise, and an associated reduction in health care costs, minimally invasive endoscopic drainage has become the preferable approach. An endoscopic ultrasonography-guided approach using a seldinger technique is the preferred endoscopic approach. Both plastic stents and metal stents are efficacious and safe; however, metal stents may offer an advantage, especially in infected pseudocysts and in WOPN. Direct endoscopic necrosectomy is often required in WOPN. Lumen apposing metal stents that allow for direct endoscopic necrosectomy and debridement through the stent lumen are preferred in these patients. Endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography with pancreatic duct (PD) exploration should be performed concurrent to PFC drainage. PD disruption is associated with an increased severity of pancreatitis, an increased risk of recurrent attacks of pancreatitis and long-term complications, and a decreased rate of PFC resolution after drainage. Any pancreatic ductal disruption should be bridged with endoscopic stenting.

Biliary and pancreatic stenting: Devices and insertion techniques in therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasonography

Stents are tubular devices made of plastic or metal. Endoscopic stenting is the most common treatment for obstruction of the common bile duct or of the main pancreatic duct, but also employed for the treatment of bilio-pancreatic leakages, for preventing post- endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis and to drain the gallbladder and pancreatic fluid collections. Recent progresses in techniques of stent insertion and metal stent design are represented by new, fully-covered lumen apposing metal stents. These stents are specifically designed for transmural drainage, with a saddle-shape design and bilateral flanges, to provide lumen-to-lumen anchoring, reducing the risk of migration and leakage. This review is an update of the technique of stent insertion and metal stent deployment, of the most recent data available on stent types and characteristics and the new applications for biliopancreatic stents.

Necrotizing pancreatitis: diagnosis, imaging, and intervention

Acute necrotizing pancreatitis is a severe form of acute pancreatitis characterized by necrosis in and around the pancreas and is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Although acute interstitial edematous pancreatitis is diagnosed primarily on the basis of signs, symptoms, and laboratory test findings, the diagnosis and severity assessment of acute necrotizing pancreatitis are based in large part on imaging findings. On the basis of the revised Atlanta classification system of 2012, necrotizing pancreatitis is subdivided anatomically into parenchymal, peripancreatic, and combined subtypes, and temporally into clinical early (within 1 week of onset) and late (>1 week after onset) phases. Associated collections are categorized as "acute necrotic" or "walled off" and can be sterile or infected. Imaging, primarily computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, plays an essential role in the diagnosis of necrotizing pancreatitis and the identification of complications, including infection, bowel and biliary obstruction, hemorrhage, pseudoaneurysm formation, and venous thrombosis. Imaging is also used to help triage patients and guide both temporizing and definitive management. A "step-up" method for the management of necrotizing pancreatitis that makes use of imaging-guided percutaneous catheter drainage of fluid collections prior to endoscopic or surgical necrosectomy has been shown to improve clinical outcomes. The authors present an algorithmic approach to the care of patients with necrotizing pancreatitis and review the use of imaging and interventional techniques in the diagnosis and management of this pathologic condition.

Uncommon complications of therapeutic endoscopic ultrasonography: What, why, and how to prevent

There is an increasing role for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided interventions in the treatment of many conditions. Although it has been shown that these types of interventions are effective and safe, they continue to be considered only as alternative treatments in some situations. This is in part due to the occurrence of complications with these techniques, which can occur even when performed by experienced endosonographers. Although common complications have been described for many procedures, it is also crucial to be aware of uncommon complications. This review describes rare complications that have been reported with several EUS-guided interventions. EUS-guided biliary drainage is accepted as an alternative treatment for malignant biliary obstruction. Most of the uncommon complications related to this procedure involve stent malfunction, such as the migration or malposition of stents. Rare complications of EUS-guided pancreatic pseudocyst drainage can result from air embolism and infection. Finally, a range of uncommon complications has been reported for EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis, involving neural and vascular injuries that can be fatal. The goal of this review is to identify possible complications and promote an understanding of how they occur in order to increase general awareness of these adverse events with the hope that they can be avoided in the future.

Retrieval of a self-expanding metal stent after migration and incorporation in the omental bursa, using a gastroscopic-transgastric laparoscopic rendezvous technique

Endoscopic drainage is a widely used treatment for pancreatic pseudocysts. Drainage-related complications may be related directly to the procedure or may occur later as stents migrate or erode into adjacent structures. Migration of a self-expanding metal stent into peritoneal cavity and incorporation in the omental bursa is rare. When endoscopic retrieval fails a combined laparoscopic-endoscopic (rendezvous technique) approach offers an alternative to open surgery. We report a case of successful gastroscopic-transgastric laparoscopic removal of a stent that was dislocated into the omental bursa after a ½ year observation period.

The role of endoscopic ultrasonography in endoscopic debridement of walled-off pancreatic necrosis--A single center experience

BACKGROUND

In recent years the significance of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has increased. In our center we have also performed EUS-guided cystostomy since 2011. Earlier we had performed this procedure without EUS. Introduction of EUS in our hospital has inspired us to perform a retrospective analysis of the influence of EUS use on the risk of complications and the effectiveness of endoscopic treatment of patients with WOPN.

METHODS

Between years 2001 and 2013 176 patients with symptomatic WOPN underwent endoscopic treatment in the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology of Medical University of Gdańsk. The results and complications of treatment in relation to the use of EUS during drainage/debridement were compared retrospectively.

RESULTS

64 patients underwent EUS-guided drainage/debridement of WOPN (group 1). In the case of 112 patients endoscopic drainage/debridement was performed without EUS control (group 2). In group 1 therapeutic success was achieved in 60/64 (93.75%) patients in comparison to 104/112 (92.9%) patients in group 2 (P = 0.870). The mean duration of drainage/debridement in both groups was 25 days - 4-173 days in group 1 and 4-112 days in group 2 (P = 0.519). The complications of endotherapy occurred in 9/64 (14.06%) patients from group 1 in comparison to 29/112 (25.9%) patients from group 2 (P = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study the use of EUS during endoscopic drainage/debridement of WOPN significantly reduced the number of procedure-related complications, mainly gastrointestinal bleeding. However, it had no influence on the duration of treatment or the effectiveness of therapy.

Endoscopic ultrasound guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections: Assessment of the procedure, technical details and review of the literature

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections (PFC) has become increasingly popular and become first line management option in many centers. Use of therapeutic echoendoscopes has greatly increased the applicability of EUS guided transmural drainage. Drainage is indicated in symptomatic PFCs, PFC related infection, bleed, luminal obstruction, fistulization and biliary obstruction. EUS guided transmural drainage of PFCs is preferred in patients with non bulging lesions, portal hypertension, bleeding tendency and in those whom conventional drainage has failed. In the present decade significant progress has been made in minimally invasive endoscopic techniques. There are newer stent designs, access devices and techniques for more efficient drainage of PFCs. In this review, we discuss the EUS guided drainage of PFCs in acute pancreatitis.

Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided endoscopic treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts and walled-off necrosis: New technical developments

In the last decades, the treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts and necrosis occurring in the clinical context of acute and chronic pancreatitis has shifted towards minimally invasive endoscopic interventions. Surgical procedures can be avoided in many cases by using endoscopically placed, Endoscopic ultrasonography-guided techniques and drainages. Endoscopic ultrasound enables the placement of transmural plastic and metal stents or nasocystic tubes for the drainage of peripancreatic fluid collections. The development of self-expanding metal stents and exchange free delivering systems have simplified the drainage of pancreatic fluid collections. This review will discuss available therapeutic techniques and new developments.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided treatments: are we getting evidence based--a systematic review

The continued need to develop less invasive alternatives to surgical and radiologic interventions has driven the development of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided treatments. These include EUS-guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections, EUS-guided necrosectomy, EUS-guided cholangiography and biliary drainage, EUS-guided pancreatography and pancreatic duct drainage, EUS-guided gallbladder drainage, EUS-guided drainage of abdominal and pelvic fluid collections, EUS-guided celiac plexus block and celiac plexus neurolysis, EUS-guided pancreatic cyst ablation, EUS-guided vascular interventions, EUS-guided delivery of antitumoral agents and EUS-guided fiducial placement and brachytherapy. However these procedures are technically challenging and require expertise in both EUS and interventional endoscopy, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and gastrointestinal stenting. We undertook a systematic review to record the entire body of literature accumulated over the past 2 decades on EUS-guided interventions with the objective of performing a critical appraisal of published articles, based on the classification of studies according to levels of evidence, in order to assess the scientific progress made in this field.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided transluminal drainage for peripancreatic fluid collections: where are we now?

Endoscopic drainage for pancreatic and peripancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) has been increasingly used as a minimally invasive alternative to surgical or percutaneous drainage. Recently, endoscopic ultrasound-guided transluminal drainage (EUS-TD) has become the standard of care and a safe procedure for nonsurgical PFC treatment. EUS-TD ensures a safe puncture, avoiding intervening blood vessels. Single or multiple plastic stents (combined with a nasocystic catheter) were used for the treatment of PFCs for EUS-TD. More recently, the use of covered self-expandable metallic stents (CSEMSs) has provided a safer and more efficient approach route for internal drainage. We focused our review on the best approach and stent to use in endoscopic drainage for PFCs. We reviewed studies of EUS-TD for PFCs based on the original Atlanta Classification, including case reports, case series, and previous review articles. Data on clinical outcomes and adverse events were collected retrospectively. A total of 93 patients underwent EUS-TD of pancreatic pseudocysts using CSEMSs. The treatment success and adverse event rates were 94.6% and 21.1%, respectively. The majority of complications were of mild severity and resolved with conservative therapy. A total of 56 patients underwent EUS-TD using CSEMSs for pancreatic abscesses or infected walled-off necroses. The treatment success and adverse event rates were 87.8% and 9.5%, respectively. EUS-TD can be performed safely and efficiently for PFC treatment. Larger diameter CSEMSs without additional fistula tract dilation for the passage of a standard scope are needed to access and drain for PFCs with solid debris.

Severe acute pancreatitis complicated with gastrointestinal dysfunction: Pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is often associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction, leading to gastrointestinal motility disorders and even gastrointestinal failure, which has an important effect on SAP progression and prognosis, directly influences the outcome of treatment, is an important cause of death in patients with SAP, and moreover, has been one of the important prognostic factors for SAP. This review aims to discuss the pathophysiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of SAP with gastrointestinal dysfunction.

Robotic-assisted cystogastrostomy for a patient with a pancreatic pseudocyst

Pancreatic pseudocysts are generally treated by endoscopic cystogastrostomy. However, difficult cases involving abscess, necrosis, or risk of hemorrhage often require surgical intervention. Here, we report a case of a robotically assisted cystogastrostomy. The patient presented with an infected pseudocyst with adjacent varices. Use of the da Vinci Surgical System allowed us to create a widely patent anastomosis between the pseudocyst and the stomach. The patient tolerated the procedure well without any complications. This report demonstrates the feasibility of robotic cystogastrostomy.

Endoscopic management of acute pancreatitis

Patients presenting with acute pancreatitis can be complex on different levels. Having a multifaceted approach to these patients is often necessary with radiographic, endoscopic, and surgical modalities all working to benefit the patient. Major surgical intervention can often be avoided or augmented by therapeutic and diagnostic endoscopic maneuvers. The diagnostic role of endoscopy in patients presenting with acute idiopathic pancreatitis can help define specific causative factors and ameliorate symptoms by endoscopic maneuvers. Etiologies of an acute pancreatitis episode, such as choledocholithiasis with or without concomitant cholangitis, microlithiasis or biliary sludge, and anatomic anomalies, such as pancreas divisum and pancreatobiliary ductal anomalies, often improve after endoscopic therapy.