Efficacy and long-term outcome of endoscopic treatment of sporadic nonampullary duodenal adenoma

Clinical outcomes of endoscopic mucosal resection for large superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumor: a single-center study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs) is challenging, and to date, only a few studies assessed the clinical outcomes of EMR in the duodenum. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of EMR for the treatment of SNADETs >10 mm.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective study reporting data from a cohort of consecutive patients undergoing EMR of large (>1 cm) SNADETs between January 2017 and December 2021.

RESULTS

A total of 81 patients with 83 lesions underwent EMR (70 conventional EMR, 13 underwater EMR). The median size was 20 mm (range: 10-60 mm). The mean procedure time was 45 ± 30 min, and the en-bloc resection rate was 47%. In all patients, SNADETs were successfully removed (i.e. technical success). Delayed bleeding occurred in 5 (6%) of EMRs. One delayed perforation occurred, which was managed surgically. Recurrence rate was 20% with a median follow-up period of 20.5 months. Recurrence was detected at the first endoscopic follow-up in 88% of cases, and all recurrences were successfully treated endoscopically. Lesion size ( P  = 0.04), previous endoscopic resection ( P  = 0.05), and piecemeal resection ( P  = 0.05) were independent risk factors of local recurrence after EMR on multivariate-adjusted analysis.

CONCLUSION

Large duodenal adenomas can be effectively managed by EMR. However, duodenal EMR of large lesions carries a significant risk of early recurrence, with a nonnegligible risk of adverse events. Lesion dimension, piecemeal resection, and previous endoscopic resection were associated with a higher recurrence rate. Close endoscopic follow-up is recommended given the high incidence of early recurrence, which can be successfully treated endoscopically.

Can underwater endoscopic mucosal resection be an alternative to conventional endoscopic mucosal resection for superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors?

Objectives

Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) is a simpler procedure for superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADET) than conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (cEMR). This study aimed to evaluate whether cEMR can be substituted by UEMR for SNADET in terms of effectiveness, safety, and learning curve.

Methods

A total of 157 consecutive patients with 203 SNADETs ≤20 mm in diameter, including 107 lesions resected by cEMR and 96 lesions resected by UEMR, between January 2019 and May 2023, were retrospectively recruited. The treatment outcomes were compared between the cEMR and UEMR groups. The risk factors for incomplete resection by UEMR were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Lesions in the UEMR group were divided chronologically into five periods; thereafter, the en bloc resection rate and procedure time were compared.

Results

No significant differences existed between the cEMR and UEMR groups in the mean procedure time (3.9 min vs. 3.6 min, p = 0.1380) or en bloc resection rate (91% vs. 94%, p = 0.4138). No perforation was observed in either group. Tumor size was an independent risk factor for incomplete resection using UEMR (p < 0.01). The history of biopsy was not associated with incomplete resection using UEMR. The en bloc resection rate of UEMR was 100% (20/20) in the first period and ranged from 90% to 100% over all periods.

Conclusion

UEMR is safe and effective for SNADET ≤20 mm, regardless of a history of biopsy, and is easy to learn. Thus, UEMR can serve as an alternative to cEMR.

Underwater Versus Conventional Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Superficial Non-ampullary Duodenal Epithelial Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Duodenal underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) has been suggested as a feasible treatment option for superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs). However, its efficacy and safety have not been fully established yet. Thus, the objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the efficacy and safety of UEMR as compared with conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (CEMR) in the treatment of SNADETs.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library. Studies comparing CEMR and UEMR for the resection of SNADET were included. Outcomes included en-bloc and complete resection rates, adverse events, and procedure time.

RESULTS

A total of six studies with 2454 lesions were included in the quantitative synthesis. En-bloc and complete resection rates were not significantly different between UEMR and CEMR (OR for en-bloc resection: 0.997 [95% CI 0.439-2.266]; OR for complete resection: 0.960 [95% CI 0.628-1.468]). There was no significant risk difference for perforation (risk difference: - 0.002; 95% CI - 0.009 to 0.005) or delayed bleeding (risk difference: - 0.001; 95% CI - 0.014 to 0.011). Procedure time was significantly shorter in the UEMR (standardized mean difference: - 1.294; 95% CI - 2.461 to - 0.127). The risk of recurrence was not significantly different between UEMR and CEMR (risk difference: 0.001; 95% CI - 0.041 to 0.044).

CONCLUSION

Although our results did not show any superiority of UEMR over CEMR in the treatment of SNADETs, UEMR showed equivalent efficacy and safety as compared with CEMR and was associated with a shorter procedure time.

Endoscopic Treatment for Superficial Nonampullary Duodenal Tumors

Superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors are considered rare but have been increasingly recognized in recent years. Accordingly, the importance of endoscopic treatment for the lesions are also increasing. An endoscopic resection can be considered for duodenal adenoma and mucosal cancer. The choice of resection method should be made based on the size of the lesion, endoscopic findings, pathologic diagnosis, and risk of procedure-related complication. For small adenomas <10 mm in size, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), cold snare polypectomy, and underwater EMR can be considered. An en bloc or piecemeal resection using EMR or underwater EMR can be selected for 10-20 mm sized adenomas. For lesions ≥20 mm in size or suspicious for mucosal cancer, an endoscopic submucosal dissection followed by closure of the mucosal defect conducted by an experienced endoscopist is appropriate.

Risk factors of delayed bleeding after endoscopic resection of superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors and prevention by over-the-scope and conventional clipping

OBJECTIVES

This study was aimed to reveal risk factors for delayed bleeding after endoscopic resection (ER) of superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs) and at exploring measures to prevent this complication.

METHODS

A total of 235 consecutive patients with 249 SNADETs who had undergone ER were enrolled in this study. They were divided into two groups: OTSC group, consisting of the initial 114 cases in which the defects were closed only using OTSCs; and OTSC-c group, consisting of the later 135 cases in which conventional clips were additionally used to cover the inverted submucosa after post-procedure defect closure using OTSCs. The therapeutic outcomes were then compared between the OTSC and OTSC-c groups.

RESULTS

All lesions were successfully resected en-bloc, and the R0 resection rate was 92.4%. The complete defect closure rate was 90.0% and no delayed perforation occurred when successful defect closure was achieved. The rate of delayed bleeding was significantly higher in the OTSC group than in OTSC-c group (11.4% vs. 1.5%, P = 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that tumor location distal to the ampulla (OR 10.0; 95% CI 1.24-81.0, P = 0.03) and use of a DOAC (OR 8.83; 95% CI 1.13-68.7, P = 0.04) were significant independent predictors of delayed bleeding. Propensity score-matching analysis revealed that additional use of conventional clips was associated with a significantly reduced risk of delayed bleeding (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Additional use of conventional clips after prophylactic defect closure using OTSCs appears to be useful to reduce the risk of delayed bleeding after ER of SNADETs. UMIN Clinical Trials (No. 000035478).

Initial multicenter experience with nitrous oxide cryoballoon for treatment of flat duodenal adenomas (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

EMR is the preferred endoscopic therapy for duodenal adenomas (DAs) but is associated with an overall adverse event rate of 26%. Cryotherapy using a Cryoballoon Focal Ablation System (CbFAS) can safely and effectively eradicate esophageal intestinal metaplasia. We report our first experience with cryoballoon ablation for treatment of flat DAs.

METHODS

This was an American, multicenter, retrospective study involving 5 centers. DAs (Paris 0-IIa and 0-IIb) were treated with nitrous oxide for 5 to 12 seconds using CbFAS. Follow-up EGD was performed at 3 to 12 months.

RESULTS

Seventeen DAs (mean size, 22.7 ± 14.3 mm; 12 tubular, 5 tubulovillous) from 13 patients (mean age, 66.5 ± 9.99 years; 61.5% males) were included in the study. Thirteen of 17 DAs (76.5%) had failed previous treatment, and 4 of 17 (23.5%) were treatment naÏve. All procedures were technically successful and achieved a >50% decrease in size after cryoballoon ablation There was no increase in size or progression of disease for any lesions. Overall, treatment was completed in 15 of 17 patients, and recurrence-free survival was achieved in 12 of 17 (71%) after a median follow-up of 15.5 months (interquartile range [IQR], 6.8-19.4). The median cryoablation time per polyp was 4 minutes (IQR, 1-7.5 minutes), and the median total procedure time was 25 minutes (IQR, 22-30.5 minutes). There were no intra- or postprocedural adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Nitrous oxide cryoballoon ablation of nonpolypoid DAs is feasible, with promising safety and efficacy.

Long-term outcomes of endoscopic resection for non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors: A single-center experience

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The malignant potential of non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (NADETs) is lower compared to that of other gastrointestinal epithelial tumors, but it should not be overlooked. Recently, endoscopic resection (ER) has been proposed as an alternative treatment option for NADETs. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the clinical outcomes of ER of NADETs and determine the factors associated with an incomplete resection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective observational study of 54 patients (56 lesions) with NADETs, who underwent ER in the period between October 2006 and March 2016, and analyzed the therapeutic outcomes and procedure-related adverse events.

RESULTS

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) was performed on 41 lesions, and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was performed on 15 lesions. The en bloc and complete resection rates were 82% (46/56) and 54% (30/56), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analyses determined that the resection method (EMR: odds ratio 4.356, 95% confidence interval 1.021-18.585, p=0.047) was independently associated with incomplete resection. The procedure-related bleeding and perforation rates were 4% and 5%, respectively. Recurrence of tumor occurred in one of 44 patients during the median follow-up period of 25 months (range: 6-89 months).

CONCLUSION

ER is an effective, safe, and feasible treatment option for NADETs. However, the incomplete resection rate increases when EMR is performed. Nevertheless, given the longer procedure time and the technical difficulty associated with ESD, and the excellent long-term outcomes associated with EMR, EMR of NADETs is appropriate, especially in patients with dysplastic lesions.

Endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of superficial non-ampullary duodenal tumors

The diagnostic and treatment guidelines of superficial non-ampullary duodenal tumors have not been standardized due to their low prevalence. Previous reports suggested that a superficial adenocarcinoma (SAC) should be treated via local resection because of its low risk of lymph node metastasis, whereas a high-grade adenoma (HGA) should be resected because of its high risk of progression to adenocarcinoma. Therefore, pretreatment diagnosis of SAC or HGA is important to determine the appropriate treatment strategy. There are certain endoscopic features known to be associated with SAC or HGA, and current practice prioritizes the endoscopic and biopsy diagnosis of these conditions. Surgical treatment of these duodenal lesions is often related to high risk of morbidity, and therefore endoscopic resection has become increasingly common in recent years. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) are the commonly performed endoscopic resection methods. EMR is preferred due to its lower risk of adverse events; however, it has a higher risk of recurrence than ESD. Recently, a new and safer endoscopic procedure that reduces adverse events from EMR or ESD has been reported.

Nonampullary Duodenal Adenomas Rarely Recur after Complete Endoscopic Resection: A Swiss Experience Including a Literature Review

INTRODUCTION

Duodenal polyps and especially duodenal adenomas are a rare and mostly coincidental finding in patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Due to their malignant potential, duodenal adenomas should be removed upon diagnosis. So far, the limited available data on the performance of endoscopic polypectomy show conflicting results with regard to adverse events and the adenoma recurrence rate.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

After summarizing the currently available data, we retrospectively analyzed all patients undergoing endoscopic resection of nonampullary duodenal adenomas (NAD) at our institution between 2006 and 2016.

RESULTS

A total of 78 patients underwent endoscopic polypectomy for NAD adenoma. End-of-treatment success with complete resection requiring a mean of 1.2 interventions was achieved in 91% (n = 71). Procedural hemorrhage occurred in 12.8% (n = 10), whereas delayed bleeding was noted in 9% (n = 7). Duodenal perforation was registered and successfully treated in 2 cases (2.6%). No adenoma recurrence was noted following primary complete adenoma resection after a mean follow-up time of 33 months. Acute post-polypectomy bleeding was statistically significantly associated with large polyp size (p = 0.003) and lack of endoscopic prophylaxis (p = 0.0008). Delayed post-polypectomy bleeding showed a trend in the occurrence of large polyps (p = 0.064), and was statistically significantly associated with familial cancer syndrome (p = 0.019) and advanced histopathology (p = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that endoscopic polypectomy of NAD is well feasible with high success rates. Procedural and delayed hemorrhage seems to be the primary issue rather than adenoma recurrence. We therefore advocate referral of patients with large NAD to experienced centers for endoscopic resection.

Endoscopic mucosal resection of non-ampullary sporadic duodenal adenomas: a retrospective analysis with long-term follow-up

OBJECTIVE

We investigate the efficiency of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of non-ampullary sporadic duodenal adenomas (NASDA) in a retrospective analysis with long-term follow-up.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing EMR of NASDA between May 2002 and December 2016 were retrospectively identified from an electronic database. Endoscopic follow-up was scheduled after 3, 6 and 12 months for the first year, then yearly for up to five years.

RESULTS

EMR of 75 NASDA was performed in 68 patients (56% en-bloc, 44% piecemeal). Retroperitoneal perforations occurred in 3/68 (4.4%) patients, were treated by surgical (n = 2) or percutaneous (n = 1) drainage; delayed bleeding was reported in 13/75 (17.3%) resections and was successfully managed by endoscopy (n = 12) or radiologic embolization (n = 1). There was no procedure-related mortality. Follow-up was available in 61/68 patients (89.7%) after a median time of 59 months from resection. Residual and recurrent adenoma were diagnosed in 9 (14.5%) and 6 (10.9%) cases, respectively; all but one were successfully retreated endoscopically.

CONCLUSIONS

EMR for NASDA is effective with a favorable long-term outcome. Local recurrences can be retreated endoscopically. A recall system, patient's compliance to endoscopic follow-up are mandatory to detect recurrences and their prompt treatment.

Endoscopic and surgical management of nonampullary duodenal neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Sporadic nonampullary duodenal neoplasms (SNADN) can have malignant potential for which endoscopic and surgical resections are offered. We report combined gastroenterologic and surgical experience for treatment of SNADN, including endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and pancreas-preserving partial duodenectomy (PPPD).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 121 consecutive patients, who underwent 30 PPPDs and 91 EMRs for mucosal and submucosal SNADN. Decision to undergo EMR or surgical resection was based on expert endoscopist and surgeon discretion including multidisciplinary tumor board review. Main outcomes were recurrence rate of neoplasia and adverse events requiring hospital admission or prolonged care. EMRs were performed with submucosal lifting followed by snare resection. PPPD included total duodenectomy, supra-ampullary PPPD for neoplasms proximal to the ampulla, and infra-ampullary PPPD for lesions distal to the ampulla. Follow-up data were available for 65% of EMR and 73% of surgical patients.

RESULTS

Surgically resected neoplasia was larger with more advanced neoplasia and submucosal lesions. En bloc resection was achieved in all surgical resections and in 53% of EMRs. Post-EMR, mucosal and submucosal neoplasia recurred in 32 and 0%, respectively, including five neoplasms (26%) after an initial negative esophagogastroduodenoscopy. All recurrences were treated endoscopically. Complications occurred in 14 endoscopically and eight surgically treated patients, none requiring surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-EMR patients had higher recurrence of mucosal neoplasia, whereas submucosal neoplasms, mainly carcinoid, did not recur. Polyp size and positive resection margin were not associated with neoplasia recurrence. Patients with SNADN could benefit from a multidisciplinary approach to stratify the optimal treatment based on local expertise.

Safety and efficacy of cap-assisted EMR for sporadic nonampullary duodenal adenomas

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Eradication of sporadic nonampullary duodenal adenomas (SNADAs) is essential because of their high rate of malignant transformation. EMR techniques are the alternative to the traditional surgical treatments of SNADAs. There are very limited data on the safety and efficacy of cap-assisted EMR (C-EMR) in the treatment of SNADA.

METHODS

The medical records of patients who underwent C-EMR for SNADAs between July 2002 and April 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Eradication was defined as no residual adenoma on follow-up or en bloc resection on pathology. Recurrence was defined as finding adenoma after a negative follow-up.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine C-EMR sessions were performed on 49 SNADAs (flat, 46; sessile, 3); 39 polyps were treated in piecemeal fashion and 10 polyps with en bloc resection. The polyp histology was tubular adenoma (63.3%) and tubulovillous adenoma (36.7%), with 16.3% of lesions showing high-grade dysplasia. Initial eradication rate was 90.5%; residual adenomas were successfully treated with repeat C-EMR/snare, resulting in 100% ultimate eradication rate without any recurrences (median follow-up of 17 months). The overall adverse events rate was 16.9%: intraprocedural bleeding (10.2%), delayed GI bleeding (5.1%), and perforation (1.7%). Among large polyps (≥15 mm), the initial and ultimate eradication rates were 87.9% and 100%, respectively, and the adverse event rate was 17%. Initial eradication rate for small polyps was higher than in large polyps (100% vs 87.9%, respectively; P = .02).

CONCLUSION

C-EMR is a highly efficient and safe method for the treatment of SNADAs. We recommend that endoscopists should learn C-EMR on esophageal, gastric, rectal, or left-sided colonic lesions before attempting C-EMR in the duodenum.

Endoscopic assessment and management of sporadic duodenal adenomas: The results of single centre multidisciplinary management

AIM

To review the role of multidisciplinary management in treating sporadic duodenal adenomas (SDA).

METHODS

SDA managed at North Shore Hospital between 2009-2014 were entered into a prospective database. Pathology, endoscopic and surgical management as well as follow up were reviewed.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients (14 male: Median age 68 years) presented with SDA [18 were classified as non ampullary location (NA), 10 as ampullary location (A)]. All SDA were diagnosed on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and were imaged with a contrast enhanced CT scan of the chest, abdomen and pelvis. Of the NA adenomas 14 were located in the second part, 2 in the first part and 2 in the third part of the duodenum. Two patients declined treatment, 3 patients underwent surgical resection (2 transduodenal resections and 1 pancreaticoduodenectomy), and 23 patients were treated with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). The only complication with endoscopic resection was mild pancreatitis post procedure. Patients were followed with gastroduodenoscopy for a median of 22 mo (range: 2-69 mo). There were 8 recurrences treated with EMR with one patient proceeding to pancreaticodeuodenectomy because of high grade dysplasia in the resected specimen and 2 NA recurrences were managed with surgical resection (distal gastrectomy for a lesion in the first part of the duodenum and a transduodenal resection of a lesion in the third part of the duodenum).

CONCLUSION

SDA can be treated endoscopically with minimal morbidity and piecemeal resection results in eradication in nearly three quarters of patients. Recurrent SDA can be treated with endoscopic reresection with surgical resection indicated when the lesions are large (> 4 cm in diameter) or demonstrate severe dysplasia or invasive cancer.

Surgical outcomes for duodenal adenoma and adenocarcinoma: a multicentre study in Australia and the United Kingdom

BACKGROUND

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is often required in patients with duodenal adenoma and adenocarcinoma and these patients generally have soft pancreatic texture and small pancreatic ducts, the two most significant factors associated with post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF). The aims of the study were to evaluate the rate of POPF and long-term outcomes for patients with duodenal adenoma and adenocarcinoma who underwent curative resection.

METHODS

This retrospective study (2004-2014) examined patients treated surgically with non-ampullary duodenal tumours (NADTs) in two hepatopancreaticobiliary units in Victoria, Australia, and Swansea, UK.

RESULTS

There were 49 resections performed including 33 pancreaticoduodenectomies, five pancreas-preserving total duodenectomies and 11 segmental duodenal resections. Median length of follow-up was 23.5 months. Final histopathology revealed 18 duodenal adenomas and 31 adenocarcinomas. POPF rate for NADTs was 28.9% (of which 54.5% were grade C) compared to 14.5% for all other pathologies. Grade C POPF was associated with poorer survival outcomes (hazard ratio = 6.73; P = 0.005). The 5-year overall survival for patients with duodenal adenocarcinoma was 66.5%.

CONCLUSION

Due to the soft pancreatic texture and small pancreatic duct, pancreatic resection for NADTs is associated with a high rate of POPF which contributes to reduced survival. Nevertheless, surgery is associated with favourable 5-year survival compared to pancreatic resection for pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Endoscopic management of mucosal lesions in the gastrointestinal tract

With the increasing role of endoscopy in patient evaluation, more mucosal lesions, including gastric, duodenal and colonic polyps, are encountered during routine examinations. It is imperative for gastroenterologists to become familiar with the endoscopic management of these various gastrointestinal lesions. In this article, various resection techniques will be discussed, including hot/cold forceps polypectomy, hot/cold snare polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection, and endoscopic submucosal dissection. The article will also discuss the evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of these techniques and the future direction of endoscopic management of mucosal lesions in the gastrointestinal tract.

Limited Resection of the Duodenum for Nonampullary Duodenal Tumors, with Review of the Literature

The surgical management of duodenal pathology is challenging because of its retroperitoneal position and shared blood supply with the pancreas. We present three types of limited resection of the duodenum for the removal of superficial or small nonampullary duodenal (NADL) lesions, and also a review of the English literature regarding management, such as endoscopic resection and limited duodenal resection. Ten cases underwent limited resections of the duodenum for superficial or small NADL lesions from 2011 to 2015. Pancreas-preserving segmental duodenectomy was performed in three cases, local full-thickness resection was performed in three and transduodenal submucosal dissection was performed in four. One patient experienced pancreatic fistula as a postoperative complication. Postoperative pathological diagnosis were adenoma (n = 2), mucosal adenocarcinomas (n = 5), and neuroendocrine tumor (n = 3). Surgical margin was negative in all cases, and no patient has experienced postoperative recurrence or metastasis. Limited resections of the duodenum were feasible and safe procedures for patients with superficial or small NADL lesions. Laparoscopic surgery may be considered in treatment for these tumors. However, the optimal surgical management for superficial or small nonampullary duodenal lesions remains controversial.

Endoscopic mucosal resection of large and giant lateral spreading lesions of the duodenum: success, adverse events, and long-term outcomes

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Large sporadic duodenal adenomas are uncommon but they harbor malignant potential, which requires consideration of definitive treatment. EMR is gaining acceptance as an effective and safe alternative to high-risk surgical procedures, but data on long-term outcomes are limited. Herein we describe the short- and long-term outcomes of these lesions in a tertiary referral center.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data were analyzed to identify risk factors for adverse events and outcomes. Patient demographics, lesion characteristics, and procedural technical data were collected.

RESULTS

From 2007 to 2015, 106 adenomas ≥10 mm were resected (mean patient age, 69 years; 54% male; median size, 25 mm; interquartile range [IQR], 19-40). Complete endoscopic resection was achieved in 96%. Intraprocedural bleeding occurred in 43% of cases and was associated with lesion size (P < .001), number of resected specimens (P = .003), and longer procedures (P = .001). Delayed bleeding occurred in 15% (56% did not require active intervention) and was associated with lesion size (P = .03). Perforation occurred in 3 patients. The 30-day mortality was 0%. Median follow-up was 22 months (IQR, 7-45). Histologically proven adenoma recurrence was identified and treated in 12 of 83 patients (14.4%) on first surveillance endoscopy. For the 53 patients for whom follow-up ≥12 months was available (median follow-up, 36 months; IQR, 24-51), 48 patients (90.6%) were free of adenoma and considered cured.

CONCLUSIONS

In a tertiary referral center, endoscopic resection of duodenal adenomas is a safe and effective alternative to surgery. Lesion size is strongly associated with adverse events, particularly intraprocedural bleeding and delayed bleeding. Good long-term outcomes are demonstrated.

Safety and efficacy of EMR for sporadic, nonampullary duodenal adenomas: a single U.S. center experience (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

EMR is increasingly used for resection of sporadic, nonampullary duodenal adenomas (SNDAs), but there are no guidelines for the management of these lesions. The aims of this study were to evaluate the safety and efficacy of EMR exclusively for SNDAs and to determine the factors predictive of outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of patients with SNDAs referred for endoscopic therapy from 2006 to 2013. The outcomes studied were successful endoscopic resection, major adverse events, early and late recurrences, and clinical remission.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients with SNDAs were included and 51 (75%) underwent EMR. The mean adenoma size was 22.0 ± 8.9 mm. Successful resection was achieved in 49 of 51 patients (96.1%), and major adverse events were noted in 8 of 51 patients (15.7%). Early and late recurrences were noted in 25.6% and 5.2% of patients, respectively, and were treated endoscopically. Clinical remission was achieved in 89.7% of patients after a median follow-up of 15 months. Presence of villous histology was associated with increased recurrence (P = .019), but no association of recurrence was noted with other endoscopic features or resection technique. Large adenoma size (P = .0057) and need for intraprocedural hemostasis (P = .006) were associated with increased adverse events, but no association of adverse events was noted with location or resection technique.

CONCLUSIONS

Large duodenal adenomas can be effectively managed with EMR at a referral center with experienced endoscopists. However, EMR has a significant recurrence rate, especially early recurrence, and the risk of adverse events is not negligible. Endoscopic therapy is successful in managing recurrent adenomas.

Management of a large mucosal defect after duodenal endoscopic resection

Duodenal endoscopic resection is the most difficult type of endoscopic treatment in the gastrointestinal tract (GI) and is technically challenging because of anatomical specificities. In addition to these technical difficulties, this procedure is associated with a significantly higher rate of complication than endoscopic treatment in other parts of the GI tract. Postoperative delayed perforation and bleeding are hazardous complications, and emergency surgical intervention is sometimes required. Therefore, it is urgently necessary to establish a management protocol for preventing serious complications. For instance, the prophylactic closure of large mucosal defects after endoscopic resection may reduce the risk of hazardous complications. However, the size of mucosal defects after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is relatively large compared with the size after endoscopic mucosal resection, making it impossible to achieve complete closure using only conventional clips. The over-the-scope clip and polyglycolic acid sheets with fibrin gel make it possible to close large mucosal defects after duodenal ESD. In addition to the combination of laparoscopic surgery and endoscopic resection, endoscopic full-thickness resection holds therapeutic potential for difficult duodenal lesions and may overcome the disadvantages of endoscopic resection in the near future. This review aims to summarize the complications and closure techniques of large mucosal defects and to highlight some directions for management after duodenal endoscopic treatment.

Efficacy and safety of endoscopic mucosal resection of non-ampullary duodenal polyps: a systematic review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Data on the safety and efficacy of endoscopic resection of non-ampullary duodenal polyps are limited. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of sporadic non-ampullary duodenal polyps.

METHODS

Relevant studies for the meta-analysis were identified through search of PUBMED and EMBASE databases. Studies employing EMR for the management of sporadic duodenal polyps in the non-ampullary region were included. The primary outcome was the surgical intervention rates due to non-curative endoscopic resection (incomplete removal/recurrence necessitating surgery) and/or management of procedural adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 440 patients (485 duodenal polyps) from 14 studies were included. The mean size of the polyps was 13 mm to 35 mm. Surgical intervention due to non-curative EMR and adverse events was required in 2 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 0 - 4 %). EMR was successfully accomplished in 93 % (95 %CI 89 - 97 %). The overall bleeding rate after EMR was 16 % (95 %CI 10 - 23 %), and the pooled delayed bleeding rate was 5 % (95 %CI 2 - 7 %). The overall incidence of perforation was 1 % (95 %CI 1 - 3 %). Over a median follow-up period of 6 - 72 months, the recurrence rate after EMR was 15 % (95 %CI 7 - 23 %). Six studies (pooled recurrence 20 %, 95 %CI 14 - 27 %) reported on the outcomes of managing recurrent polyps, for which endoscopic removal was successful in 62 % (95 %CI 37 - 87 %). There was no procedure related mortality.

CONCLUSION

EMR appears to be a safe and effective therapeutic option for management of sporadic non-ampullary duodenal polyps. Long-term endoscopic surveillance is required to manage and treat recurrent disease.

Approach to the endoscopic resection of duodenal lesions

Duodenal polyps or lesions are uncommonly found on upper endoscopy. Duodenal lesions can be categorized as subepithelial or mucosally-based, and the type of lesion often dictates the work-up and possible therapeutic options. Subepithelial lesions that can arise in the duodenum include lipomas, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and carcinoids. Endoscopic ultrasonography with fine needle aspiration is useful in the characterization and diagnosis of subepithelial lesions. Duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors and large or multifocal carcinoids are best managed by surgical resection. Brunner's gland tumors, solitary Peutz-Jeghers polyps, and non-ampullary and ampullary adenomas are mucosally-based duodenal lesions, which can require removal and are typically amenable to endoscopic resection. Several anatomic characteristics of the duodenum make endoscopic resection of duodenal lesions challenging. However, advanced endoscopic techniques exist that enable the resection of large mucosally-based duodenal lesions. Endoscopic papillectomy is not without risk, but this procedure can effectively resect ampullary adenomas and allows patients to avoid surgery, which typically involves pancreaticoduodenectomy. Endoscopic mucosal resection and its variations (such as cap-assisted, cap-band-assisted, and underwater techniques) enable the safe and effective resection of most duodenal adenomas. Endoscopic submucosal dissection is possible but very difficult to safely perform in the duodenum.

Nonampullary duodenal adenoma: Current understanding of its diagnosis, pathogenesis, and clinical management

Nonampullary duodenal adenomas are relatively common in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), but nonampullary sporadic duodenal adenomas (SDAs) are rare. Emerging evidence shows that duodenal adenomas, regardless of their anatomic location and whether they are sporadic or FAP-related, share morphologic and molecular features with colorectal adenomas. The available data suggest that duodenal adenomas develop to duodenal adenocarcinomas via similar mechanisms. The optimal approach for management of duodenal adenomas remains to be determined. The techniques for endoscopic resection of duodenal adenoma include snare polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), and argon plasma coagulation ablation. EMR may facilitate removal of large duodenal polyps. Although several studies have reported cases of successful ESD for duodenal adenomas, the procedure is technically difficult to perform safely because of the anatomical properties of the duodenum. Although current clinical practice recommends endoscopic resection of all large duodenal adenomas in patients with FAP, endoscopic treatment is usually insufficient to guarantee a polyp-free duodenum. Surgery is indicated for FAP patients with severe polyposis or nonampullary SDAs or FAP-related polyps not amenable to endoscopic resection. Further studies are needed to develop newer endoscopic techniques to guide diagnostic and therapeutic decisions for future management of nonampullary duodenal adenomas.

Endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection in the treatment of sporadic nonampullary duodenal adenomatous polyps

Although uncommon, sporadic nonampullary duodenal adenomas have a growing detection due to the widespread of endoscopy. Endoscopic therapy is being increasingly used for these lesions, since surgery, considered the standard treatment, carries significant morbidity and mortality. However, the knowledge about its risks and benefits is limited, which contributes to the current absence of standardized recommendations. This review aims to discuss the efficacy and safety of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in the treatment of these lesions. A literature review was performed, using the Pubmed database with the query: “(duodenum or duodenal) (endoscopy or endoscopic) adenoma resection”, in the human species and in English. Of the 189 retrieved articles, and after reading their abstracts, 19 were selected due to their scientific interest. The analysis of their references, led to the inclusion of 23 more articles for their relevance in this subject. The increased use of EMR in the duodenum has shown good results with complete resection rates exceeding 80% and low complication risk (delayed bleeding in less than 12% of the procedures). Although rarely used in the duodenum, ESD achieves close to 100% complete resection rates, but is associated with perforation and bleeding risk in up to one third of the cases. Even though literature is insufficient to draw definitive conclusions, studies suggest that EMR and ESD are valid options for the treatment of nonampullary adenomas. Thus, strategies to improve these techniques, and consequently increase the effectiveness and safety of the resection of these lesions, should be developed.

Future directions of duodenal endoscopic submucosal dissection

Endoscopic therapies for lesions of the duodenum are technically more difficult than those for lesions of the other parts of the gastrointestinal tract due to the anatomical features of the duodenum, and the incidence rate of complications such as perforation and bleeding is also higher. These aforementioned trends were especially noticeable for the case of duodenal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). The indication for ESD of duodenal tumors should be determined by assessment of the histopathology, macroscopic morphology, and diameter of the tumors. The three types of candidate lesions for endoscopic therapy are adenoma, carcinoma, and neuroendocrine tumors. For applying endoscopic therapies to duodenal lesions, accurate preoperative histopathological diagnosis is necessary. The most important technical issue in duodenal ESD is the submucosal dissection process. In duodenal ESD, a short needle-type knife is suitable for the mucosal incision and submucosal dissection processes, and the Small-caliber-tip Transparent hood is an important tool. After endoscopic therapies, the wound should be closed by clipping in order to prevent complications such as secondary hemorrhage and delayed perforation. At present, the criteria for selection between ESD and EMR vary among institutions. The indications for ESD should be carefully considered. Duodenal ESD should have limitations, such as the need for its being performed by experts with abundant experience in performing the procedure.

Efficacy and safety of the band and slough technique for endoscopic therapy of nonampullary duodenal adenomas: a case series

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic resection of nonampullary duodenal adenomas (NADAs) is effective but carries substantial procedural risks. Therapeutic banding for treatment of duodenal mucosal neoplasia has not been studied. We report a novel band and slough (BAS) technique for therapy of NADA without endoscopic resection.

OBJECTIVE

Efficacy and safety of BAS.

DESIGN

Retrospective review of a prospective database.

SETTING

Community hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients with sporadic and familial biopsy-proven NADA without invasive cancer undergoing BAS.

INTERVENTION

Patients were treated with BAS without endoscopic resection on an outpatient basis. A follow-up telephone call was made by a nurse at 24 hours. Follow-up endoscopy was performed at 8 weeks, with further therapy of residual NADA. In patients with minimal residual NADA not amenable to banding, argon plasma coagulation (APC) "touch-up" was used. Subsequent endoscopic surveillance was performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Complete histologic remission of NADA after successful BAS and postprocedure bleeding, perforation, and pain.

RESULTS

Ten patients, average age 65 years, 6 male, with sporadic/familial adenomatous polyposis NADA 8 of 2 (6 tubular adenoma and 4 tubulovillous adenoma) were treated. Mean (largest) NADA was 12.5 mm (20 mm). Five patients achieved complete remission after a single session. Among 5 patients requiring further therapy, 3 were treated with repeat banding with or without APC and 2 with APC alone. The average number of bands per session was 4.4. Patients were followed up to 24 months without NADA recurrence. None of the patients had acute or delayed adverse events of bleeding, perforation, or postprocedure pain.

LIMITATIONS

Lack of polyp tissue retrieval.

CONCLUSION

BAS appears to be a safe and potentially effective endoscopic treatment for NADA. However, larger studies are needed to corroborate these findings.

Delayed bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection for non-ampullary superficial duodenal neoplasias might be prevented by prophylactic endoscopic closure: analysis of risk factors

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Duodenal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is technically challenging because of anatomical specificities and, to date, has not been validated concerning the high rate of complications such as perforation and delayed bleeding. In the present study, the risk factors for delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD are presented with the goal of establishing preventive measures.

METHODS

We analyzed 63 patients with non-ampullary superficial duodenal neoplasias treated by ESD from April 2005 to March 2014. To analyze the risk factors of delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD, we divided the patients into a delayed bleeding group and a non-bleeding group. To verify the risk factors of delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD, we analyzed various patient-, lesion-, and treatment-related factors.

RESULTS

Delayed bleeding was experienced in 11 patients (17.5%) Univariate analysis of patient-related risk factors of delayed bleeding indicated no significant risk factor. Univariate analysis of lesion-related and treatment-related risk factors indicated only endoscopic closure as a significant risk factor. Multivariate analysis also identified endoscopic closure (not done > done: P = 0.049) as an independent factor significantly associated with delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD. Hypertension (present > absent: P = 0.055) showed a non-significant tendency of association by multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective evaluation found that endoscopic closure was associated with a reduced risk of delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD. Delayed bleeding after duodenal ESD might be prevented by prophylactic endoscopic closure.

Prospective study of acute complication rates and associated risk factors in endoscopic therapy for duodenal adenomas

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic therapy for duodenal adenomas is becoming increasingly important. However, only a few studies have been published on the topic, mainly with retrospective data.

METHODS

This prospective study was carried out to determine complication rates and associated risk factors during and after endoscopic therapy for duodenal adenomas. Between May 2011 and October 2012, 50 patients (with 61 duodenal adenomas) were included. Sixty-one duodenal adenomas were resected endoscopically. Complications (e.g., bleeding, pain, fever, pancreatitis, and perforation) were recorded. Associations between bleeding and other factors--sex, age, anticoagulation, location and size of adenomas, etiology, lesion morphology, resection type, and argon plasma coagulation (APC) for bleeding prophylaxis--were then investigated.

RESULTS

Bleeding was the main complication. Major bleeding occurred in four cases (6.5%) and minor bleeding in 11 (18%). One occult perforation also occurred. There was a statistically significant association between bleeding and the size of the adenoma (P = 0.012). APC for bleeding prophylaxis showed a promising trend, with an odds ratio of 0.31, reducing the bleeding risk by two-thirds in this study. However, due to the small number of six patients that received bleeding prophylaxis with APC therapy, this result was not statistically significant (P = 0.31).

CONCLUSIONS

Bleeding is the main complication in endoscopic therapy for duodenal adenomas. The bleeding risk increases significantly with adenoma size. Prophylactic APC seems to reduce the bleeding rate--however, because of the relatively small number of patients treated with APC, this partial result was not statistically relevant. Due to the relevant rate of complications, endoscopic resection of duodenal adenomas is only recommended in an in-patient setting.

Treatment for superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors

Because of the low prevalence of non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (NADETs), standardized clinical management of sporadic superficial NADETs, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, has not yet been established. Retrospective studies have revealed certain endoscopic findings suggestive of malignancy. Duodenal adenoma with high-grade dysplasia and mucosal cancer are candidates for local resection by endoscopic or minimally invasive surgery. The use of endoscopic treatment including endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), for the treatment for superficial NADETs is increasing. EMR requires multiple sessions to achieve complete remission and repetitive endoscopy is needed after resection. ESD provides an excellent complete resection rate, however it remains a challenging method, considering the high risk of intraoperative or delayed perforation. Minimally invasive surgery such as wedge resection and pancreas-sparing duodenectomy are beneficial for superficial NADETs that are technically difficult to remove by endoscopic treatment. Pancreaticoduodenectomy remains a standard surgical procedure for treatment of duodenal cancer with submucosal invasion, which presents a risk of lymph node metastasis. Endoscopic or surgical treatment outcomes of superficial NADETs without submucosal invasion are satisfactory. Establishing an endoscopic diagnostic tool to differentiate superficial NADETs between adenoma and cancer as well as between mucosal and submucosal cancer is required to select the most appropriate treatment.

Selection of appropriate endoscopic therapies for duodenal tumors: an open-label study, single-center experience

AIM

To determine an appropriate compartmentalization of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for duodenal tumors.

METHODS

Forty-six duodenal lesions (excluding papillary lesions) from 44 patients with duodenal tumors treated endoscopically between 2005 and 2013 were divided into the ESD and EMR groups for retrospective comparison and analysis.

RESULTS

The mean age was 65 ± 9 years (35-79 years). There were 24 lesions from men and 22 from women. The lesions consisted of 6 early cancers, 31 adenomas and 9 neuroendocrine tumors. Lesion location was the duodenal bulb in 15 cases and the descending part of the duodenum in 31 cases. The most common macroscopic morphology was elevated type in 21 cases (45.6%). Mean tumor diameter was 11.9 ± 9.7 mm (3-60 mm). Treatment procedure was ESD (15 cases) vs EMR (31 cases). The examined parameters in the ESD vs EMR groups were as follows: mean tumor diameter, 12.9 ± 14.3 mm (3-60 mm) vs 11.4 ± 6.7 mm (4-25 mm); en bloc resection rate, 86.7% vs 83.9%; complete resection rate, 86.7% vs 74.2%; procedure time, 86.5 ± 63.1 min (15-217 min) vs 13.2 ± 17.0 min (2-89 min) (P < 0.0001); intraprocedural perforation, 3 cases vs none (P = 0.0300); delayed perforation, none in either group; postprocedural bleeding, 1 case vs none; mean postoperative length of hospitalization, 8.2 ± 2.9 d (5-16 d) vs 6.1 ± 2.0 d (2-12 d) (P = 0.0067); recurrence, none vs 1 case (occurring at 7 mo postoperatively).

CONCLUSION

ESD was associated with a longer procedure time and a higher incidence of intraprocedural perforation; EMR was associated with a lower rate of complete resection.

Endoscopic resection of large sporadic non-ampullary duodenal polyps: efficacy and long-term recurrence

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic resection is an alternative to surgery for removal of large duodenal polyps. There are limited data on the safety, efficacy, and long-term recurrence data after endoscopic resection of sporadic, non-ampullary, and large duodenal polyps.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to evaluate the safety and short-term outcomes of the endoscopic removal of the large sporadic duodenal polyps and to determine long-term risk of recurrence and factors predicting recurrence on follow-up.

METHODS

Patients with large (>10 mm) sporadic non-ampullary duodenal polyps underwent endoscopic resection from 2001 to 2012 at the Cleveland Clinic. Patients underwent endoscopic polypectomy and argon plasma coagulation. The main outcome measurements were complete polypectomy, complications, short- and long-term recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 54 patients were included. The mean patient age was 66.4 years. The mean polyp size was 15.1 ± 5.4 mm. Most polyps (N = 48, 88.9 %) were sessile polyps. The median follow-up time was 10.8 (range 0.5-120) months. Most lesions were located in the second part of the duodenum (N = 41, 75.9 %). Adenomas were found in 46 (85.2 %) of lesions overall. Tubular adenoma was the most common histology type found in 33 cases (71.7 %). Tubulovillous and villous were found in 12 (26.1 %) and 1 (2.2 %) cases, respectively. On follow-up, 50 (92.6 %) achieved complete resection with tumor free margins post resection. The 30-day risk of major complications was 5.6 % (N = 3), 1 with perforation and 2 with delayed bleeding. Recurrence was documented in 29 % (N = 16) of patients. All recurrences were managed endoscopically except for one patient who required surgery. The recurrence rate was higher for patients who had villous component in their adenomas compared to those with tubular alone (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic resection is effective for treating large duodenal adenomas. Adenomas with villous features are more likely to recur. Almost all recurrences can be managed endoscopically.

Endoscopic resection of sporadic duodenal adenomas: comparison of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) with hybrid endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) techniques and the risks of late delayed bleeding

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic resection (ER) of sporadic duodenal adenomas (SDAs) is an alternative treatment strategy to surgical excision but carries substantial risks of bleeding. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of SDAs has a high rate of perforation. This study aimed to examine the outcome for ER of SDAs in two large UK centers, both using a novel hybrid endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) with ESD.

METHODS

Prospective endoscopy databases of ER cases were examined for the period January 2005 to December 2012. Records were analyzed for patient demographics, lesion size and morphology, staging investigations, procedural technique, outcomes, histology, complications, and follow-up assessments.

RESULTS

The study included 34 patients. The mean adenoma size was 25 mm. Of the 34 cases, 21 (62 %) were managed by the traditional snare EMR technique, 12 (35 %) by the hybrid EMR-ESD technique, and 1 by full en bloc ESD. Successful resection was achieved in 33 (97 %) of the 34 cases. En bloc resection and recurrence rates did not differ significantly between the cases treated by EMR and those treated by hybrid EMR-ESD. Three episodes of significant delayed bleeding occurred 1-18 days after the procedure. No perforations or deaths occurred. The risk of delayed bleeding was higher for the lesions 30 mm in diameter or larger than for the lesions smaller than 30 mm (33% vs. 0 %; p = 0.003). The risk of delayed bleeding was not related to the ER technique used (EMR, 9.5 %; ESD/hybrid, 7.7 %; p = 0.855).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic resection is an effective treatment for SDAs and can avoid the need for open surgery. This is the first series to report the use of a hybrid EMR-ESD technique for the treatment of SDAs in a Western setting. However, this technique did not confer any major outcome benefits over EMR. The risk of delayed bleeding is substantial, and bleeding may occur up to 18 days after the procedure. The risk of delayed bleeding was increased with lesions larger than 30 mm but was not influenced by the endoscopic technique.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for nonampullary large superficial adenocarcinoma/adenoma of the duodenum: feasibility and long-term outcomes

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

The clinical benefit of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for superficial duodenal neoplasias has not yet been verified. The aims of this study were to validate the feasibility and long-term outcomes of ESD for nonampullary superficial duodenal neoplasias, larger than 20 mm.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

41 patients, with 41 nonampullary large superficial duodenal neoplasias, who underwent ESD between April 2005 to March 2013 were included in the study. The short- and long-term outcomes were retrospectively evaluated, related to tumor size, resection size, histological type, invasion depth, complete resection rate, operation time, perforation rate, delayed bleeding rate, local recurrence rate, distant metastasis, and survival rate.

RESULTS

ESD was successfully completed in 38 of 41 patients (92.7 %). The median sizes of tumors and resected specimens were, respectively, 26 mm (range 20 - 70 mm) and 36.5 mm (range 23 - 80 mm). Histopathological findings showed 13 adenocarcinomas (12 mucosal, 1 submucosal) and 28 adenomas (26 high grade dysplasia, 2 low grade dysplasia). The complete resection rate was 89.5 % (34 /38 tumors). The mean operation time was 128.3minutes. Perforation during ESD occurred in 39 % and delayed bleeding occurred in 18.4 %. The median observation period was 48 months (range 3.2 - 94.1 months), and no local recurrence or distant metastasis was seen during this time, representing a disease-free survival rate of 100 %.

CONCLUSIONS

ESD for nonampullary large superficial duodenal adenocarcinoma/adenoma is feasible with favorable long-term outcomes. However, because of the high complication rate due to its technical difficulty, experience and skill of the operator, along with adequate perioperative management, are essential.

Efficacy and safety of endoscopic treatment for nonampullary sporadic duodenal adenomas

BACKGROUND

Nonampullary sporadic duodenal adenomas (NSDAs) are uncommon mucosal neoplasms with malignant potential. Recently, endoscopic treatment is used for NSDA with increasing frequency.

AIMS

This study therefore aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic treatment for NSDA.

METHODS

A total of 36 NSDAs in 35 consecutive patients were endoscopically eradicated at Samsung Medical Center between October 1994 and May 2011. Data on patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and endoscopic treatment outcomes were obtained and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Of all patients, 19 (52.8 %) were male. The mean age was 56.0 ± 12.2 (SD) years. Of the 36 NSDAs, 23 lesions were removed by endoscopic resection (ER) including endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR, n = 20) and snare polypectomy (n = 3). In the 23 cases treated with ER, en bloc resection was achieved in 20 (87.0 %). All cases undergoing en bloc resection showed tumor-free resection margins. Thirteen lesions were ablated by argon plasma coagulation (APC). During EMR, bleeding occurred in two cases and perforation occurred in one case. One patient bled during APC. All complications were successfully managed with endoscopic treatment without surgical intervention. During a median follow-up period of 11.4 months (range, 1.8-182.4 months), local recurrence occurred in one patient treated with APC (1/10, 10.0 %). Among patients undergoing ER, no local recurrence occurred but one patient treated with EMR experienced metachronous recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic treatment, including EMR, snare polypectomy, and APC, was an effective and safe treatment for NSDA. Further multi-center large prospective studies are warranted to establish appropriate treatment guidelines for NSDA.

Cap-assisted EMR of large, sporadic, nonampullary duodenal polyps

BACKGROUND

EMR is an effective alternative to surgery for the removal of nonampullary duodenal polyps (NADPs). Cap-assisted EMR (EMR-C) has been rarely performed in the duodenum because of the risk of perforation.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of EMR-C for the removal of large (≥ 15 mm) NADPs.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Tertiary-care referral center.

PATIENTS

Between 2000 and 2010, 26 consecutive patients with sporadic NADPs underwent EMR-C.

INTERVENTION

EMR with the cap technique.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Complete eradication of polyps, complications, and recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 14 sessile polyps (53.8%), 7 lateral spreading type nongranular tumors (26.9%), and 5 lateral spreading type granular tumors (19.2%) were treated. The median size of lesions was 15 mm. Five lesions involved one-half of the luminal circumference. Post-EMR histologic assessment showed low-grade dysplasia in 5 patients (19.2%) and high-grade dysplasia in 18 patients (69.2%). Three patients (11.5%) had well-differentiated endocrine tumors. Complete eradication was obtained in 25 of 26 (96%) patients. No perforations occurred. Three cases of intraprocedural bleeding were managed endoscopically. Median follow-up was 6 years (range 1-10 years). Residual adenomatous tissue was observed in 3 patients in lesions of 50 mm. In one of these cases, an adenocarcinoma occurred after 8 months, which was managed surgically.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design, single center.

CONCLUSION

This study supports the efficacy and safety of EMR-C for removing NADPs. Regular follow-up is mandatory because of the high risk of residual or recurrent adenomatous tissue and even cancer.

Endoscopic management of nonampullary duodenal polyps

Duodenal polyps are a rare finding in patients presenting for gastroscopy, being found in 0.3-4.6% of cases. The majority of patients are asymptomatic. The most common lesions necessitating removal are duodenal adenomas which should be differentiated from other mucosal lesions such as ectopic gastric mucosa, and submucosal lesions such as carcinoids and gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs). Adenomas can occur sporadically or as part of a polyposis syndrome. Both groups carry malignant potential but this is higher in patients with a polyposis syndrome. The majority of sporadic duodenal adenomas are flat or sessile and occur in the second part of the duodenum. Historically duodenal adenomas have been managed by radical surgery, which carried significant mortality and morbidity, or more conservative local surgical excision which resulted in high local recurrence rates. There is growing evidence for the use of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) techniques for treatment of sporadic nonampullary duodenal adenomas, with good outcomes and low complication rates. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) carries greater risk of complications and should be reserved for experts in this technique. Patients with sporadic duodenal adenomas carry an increased risk of colonic neoplasia and should be offered colonoscopy. The impact of endoscopic resection on the course of polyposis syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) needs further study.