Endoscopic Biliary Drainage in Surgically Altered Anatomy

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is considered the preferred method for managing biliary obstructions. However, the prevalence of surgically modified anatomies often poses challenges, making the standard side-viewing duodenoscope unable to reach the papilla in most cases. The increasing instances of surgically altered anatomies (SAAs) result from higher rates of bariatric procedures and surgical interventions for pancreatic malignancies. Conventional ERCP with a side-viewing endoscope remains effective when there is continuity between the stomach and duodenum. Nonetheless, percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) or surgery has historically been used as an alternative for biliary drainage in malignant or benign conditions. The evolving landscape has seen various endoscopic approaches tailored to anatomical variations. Innovative methodologies such as cap-assisted forward-viewing endoscopy and enteroscopy have enabled the performance of ERCP. Despite their utilization, procedural complexities, prolonged durations, and accessibility challenges have emerged. As a result, there is a growing interest in novel enteroscopy and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) techniques to ensure the overall success of endoscopic biliary drainage. Notably, EUS has revolutionized this domain, particularly through several techniques detailed in the review. The rendezvous approach has been pivotal in this field. The antegrade approach, involving biliary tree puncturing, allows for the validation and treatment of strictures in an antegrade fashion. The EUS-transmural approach involves connecting a tract of the biliary system with the GI tract lumen. Moreover, the EUS-directed transgastric ERCP (EDGE) procedure, combining EUS and ERCP, presents a promising solution after gastric bypass. These advancements hold promise for expanding the horizons of comprehensive and successful biliary drainage interventions, laying the groundwork for further advancements in endoscopic procedures.

Exploring a novel composite method using non-contrast EUS enhanced microvascular imaging and cyst fluid analysis to differentiate pancreatic cystic lesions

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Differentiating pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) remains a diagnostic challenge. The use of high-definition imaging modalities which detect tumor microvasculature have been described in solid lesions. We aim to evaluate the usefulness of cystic microvasculature when used in combination with cyst fluid biochemistry to differentiate PCLs.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 110 consecutive patients with PCLs from 2 Italian Hospitals who underwent EUS with H-Flow and EUS fine needle aspiration to obtain cystic fluid. The accuracy of fluid biomarkers was evaluated against morphological features on radiology and EUS. Gold standard for diagnosis was surgical resection. A clinical and radiological follow up was applied in those patients who were not resected because not surgical indication and no signs of malignancy were shown.

RESULTS

Of 110 patients, 65 were diagnosed with a mucinous cyst, 41 with a non-mucinous cyst, and 4 with an undetermined cyst. Fluid analysis alone yielded 76.7% sensitivity, 56.7% specificity, 77.8 positive predictive value (PPV), 55.3 negative predictive value (NPV) and 56% accuracy in diagnosing pancreatic cysts alone. Our composite method yielded 97.3% sensitivity, 77.1% specificity, 90.1% PPV, 93.1% NPV, 73.2% accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS

This new composite could be applied to the holistic approach of combining cyst morphology, vascularity, and fluid analysis alongside endoscopist expertise.

Diagnostic accuracy and safety of EUS-guided end-cutting fine-needle biopsy needles for tissue sampling of abdominal and mediastinal lymphadenopathies: a prospective multicenter series

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The role of the newer EUS fine-needle biopsy needles in lymphadenopathies (LAs) is still under evaluation. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and adverse event rate of EUS-guided fine-needle biopsy sampling (EUS-FNB) in diagnosing LAs.

METHODS

From June 2015 to June 2022, all patients referred to 4 institutions for EUS-FNB of mediastinal and abdominal LAs were enrolled. Twenty-two-gauge Franseen tip or 25-gauge fork-tip needles were used. The criterion standard for positive results was surgery or imaging and clinical evolution over a follow-up of at least 1 year.

RESULTS

One hundred consecutive patients were enrolled, consisting of those with a new diagnosis of LA (40%), presence of LA with a previous history of neoplasia (51%), or suspected lymphoproliferative disease (9%). EUS-FNB was technically feasible in all LA patients with 2 to 3 passes (mean, 2.62 ± .93). The overall sensitivity, positive predictive value, specificity, negative predictive value, and accuracy for EUS-FNB were 96.20%, 100%, 100%, 87.50%, and 97.00%, respectively. Histologic analysis was feasible in 89% of cases. Cytologic evaluation was performed in 67% of specimens. A statistical difference between the accuracy of the 22-gauge or 25-gauge needle (P = .63) was not found. A subanalysis on lymphoproliferative disease revealed a sensitivity and accuracy of 89.29% and 90.0%, respectively. No adverse events were recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-FNB with new end-cutting needles is a valuable and safe method to diagnose LAs. The high quality of histologic cores and the good amount of tissue allowed a complete immunohistochemical analysis of metastatic LAs and precise subtyping of the lymphomas. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT02855151.).

Artificial intelligence in colorectal surgery: an AI-powered systematic review

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize surgery in the coming years. Still, it is essential to clarify what the meaningful current applications are and what can be reasonably expected. This AI-powered review assessed the role of AI in colorectal surgery. A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-compliant systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library databases, and gray literature was conducted on all available articles on AI in colorectal surgery (from January 1 1997 to March 1 2021), aiming to define the perioperative applications of AI. Potentially eligible studies were identified using novel software powered by natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning (ML) technologies dedicated to systematic reviews. Out of 1238 articles identified, 115 were included in the final analysis. Available articles addressed the role of AI in several areas of interest. In the preoperative phase, AI can be used to define tailored treatment algorithms, support clinical decision-making, assess the risk of complications, and predict surgical outcomes and survival. Intraoperatively, AI-enhanced surgery and integration of AI in robotic platforms have been suggested. After surgery, AI can be implemented in the Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) pathway. Additional areas of applications included the assessment of patient-reported outcomes, automated pathology assessment, and research. Available data on these aspects are limited, and AI in colorectal surgery is still in its infancy. However, the rapid evolution of technologies makes it likely that it will increasingly be incorporated into everyday practice.

Artificial intelligence in gastroenterology: Where are we heading?

Background and study aims  Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to impact several fields within gastroenterology. In gastrointestinal endoscopy, AI-based tools have translated into clinical practice faster than expected. We aimed to evaluate the status of research for AI in gastroenterology while predicting its future applications. Methods  All studies registered on Clinicaltrials.gov up to November 2021 were analyzed. The studies included used AI in gastrointestinal endoscopy, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), hepatology, and pancreatobiliary diseases. Data regarding the study field, methodology, endpoints, and publication status were retrieved, pooled, and analyzed to observe underlying temporal and geographical trends. Results  Of the 103 study entries retrieved according to our inclusion/exclusion criteria, 76 (74 %) were based on AI application to gastrointestinal endoscopy, mainly for detection and characterization of colorectal neoplasia (52/103, 50 %). Image analysis was also more frequently reported than data analysis for pancreaticobiliary (six of 10 [60 %]), liver diseases (eight of nine [89 %]), and IBD (six of eight [75 %]). Overall, 48 of 103 study entries (47 %) were interventional and 55 (53 %) observational. In 2018, one of eight studies (12.5 %) were interventional, while in 2021, 21 of 34 (61.8 %) were interventional, with an inverse ratio between observational and interventional studies during the study period. The majority of the studies were planned as single-center (74 of 103 [72 %]) and more were in Asia (45 of 103 [44 %]) and Europe (44 of 103 [43 %]). Conclusions  AI implementation in gastroenterology is dominated by computer-aided detection and characterization of colorectal neoplasia. The timeframe for translational research is characterized by a swift conversion of observational into interventional studies.

Enhanced endoscopic ultrasound imaging for pancreatic lesions: The road to artificial intelligence

Early detection of pancreatic cancer has long eluded clinicians because of its insidious nature and onset. Often metastatic or locally invasive when symptomatic, most patients are deemed inoperable. In those who are symptomatic, multi-modal imaging modalities evaluate and confirm pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. In asymptomatic patients, detected pancreatic lesions can be either solid or cystic. The clinical implications of identifying small asymptomatic solid pancreatic lesions (SPLs) of < 2 cm are tantamount to a better outcome. The accurate detection of SPLs undoubtedly promotes higher life expectancy when resected early, driving the development of existing imaging tools while promoting more comprehensive screening programs. An imaging tool that has matured in its reiterations and received many image-enhancing adjuncts is endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). It carries significant importance when risk stratifying cystic lesions and has substantial diagnostic value when combined with fine needle aspiration/biopsy (FNA/FNB). Adjuncts to EUS imaging include contrast-enhanced harmonic EUS and EUS-elastography, both having improved the specificity of FNA and FNB. This review intends to compile all existing enhancement modalities and explore ongoing research around the most promising of all adjuncts in the field of EUS imaging, artificial intelligence.

Role of endoscopic ultrasound in vascular interventions: Where are we now?

From a mere diagnostic tool to an imperative treatment modality, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has evolved and revolutionized safer efficient options for vascular interventions. Currently it is an alternative treatment option in the management of gastrointestinal bleeding, primarily variceal type bleeding. Conventional treatment option prior to EUS incorporation had limited efficiency and high adverse events. The characterization and detail provided by EUS gives a cutting edge towards a holistically successful management choice. Data indicates that EUS-guided combination therapy of coil embolization and glue injection has the higher efficacy for the treatment of varices. Conversely, similar treatment options that exist for esophageal and other ectopic variceal bleeding was also outlined. In conclusion, many studies refer that a combination therapy of coil and glue injection under EUS guidance provides higher technical success with fewer recurrence and adverse events, making its adaptation in the guideline extremely favorable. Endo-hepatology is a novel disciple with a promising future outlook, we reviewed topics regarding portal vein access, pressure gradient measurement, and thrombus biopsy that are crucial interventions as alternative of radiological procedures. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the latest available evidence in the literature regarding the role of EUS in vascular interventions. We reviewed the role of EUS in variceal bleeding in recent studies, especially gastric varices and novel approaches aimed at the portal vein.

Comparing the number and relevance of false activations between 2 artificial intelligence computer-aided detection systems: the NOISE study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Artificial intelligence has been shown to be effective in polyp detection, and multiple computer-aided detection (CADe) systems have been developed. False-positive (FP) activation emerged as a possible way to benchmark CADe performance in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to validate a previously developed classification of FPs comparing the performances of different brands of approved CADe systems.

METHODS

We compared 2 different consecutive video libraries (40 video per arm) collected at Humanitas Research Hospital with 2 different CADe system brands (CADe A and CADe B). For each video, the number of CADe false activations, cause, and time spent by the endoscopist to examine the area erroneously highlighted were reported. The FP activations were classified according to the previously developed classification of FPs (the NOISE classification) according to their cause and relevance.

RESULTS

In CADe A 1021 FP activations were registered across the 40 videos (25.5 ± 12.2 FPs per colonoscopy), whereas in CADe B 1028 were identified (25.7 ± 13.2 FPs per colonoscopy; P = .53). Among them, 22.9 ± 9.9 (89.8% in CADe A) and 22.1 ± 10.0 (86.0% in CADe B) were because of artifacts from the bowel wall. Conversely, 2.6 ± 1.9 (10.2% in CADe A) and 3.5 ± 2.1 (14% in CADe B) were caused by bowel content (P = .45). Within CADe A each false activation required .2 ± .9 seconds, with 1.6 ± 1.0 FPs (6.3%) requiring additional time for endoscopic assessment. Comparable results were reported within CADe B with .2 ± .8 seconds spent per false activation and 1.8 ± 1.2 FPs per colonoscopy requiring additional inspection.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a standardized nomenclature provided comparable results with either of the 2 recently approved CADe systems. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT04399590.).

The effect of regularly dosed acetaminophen versus no acetaminophen on renal function in Plasmodium knowlesi malaria (PACKNOW): a randomised controlled trial

Background

Acetaminophen inhibits cell-free hemoglobin-induced lipid peroxidation and improves renal function in severe falciparum malaria but has not been evaluated in other infections with prominent hemolysis, including Plasmodium knowlesi malaria.

Methods

PACKNOW was an open-label, randomized, controlled trial of acetaminophen (500 mg or 1000 mg every 6 hours for 72 hours) vs no acetaminophen in Malaysian patients aged ≥5 years with knowlesi malaria of any severity. The primary end point was change in creatinine at 72 hours. Secondary end points included longitudinal changes in creatinine in patients with severe malaria or acute kidney injury (AKI), stratified by hemolysis.

Results

During 2016–2018, 396 patients (aged 12–96 years) were randomized to acetaminophen (n = 199) or no acetaminophen (n = 197). Overall, creatinine fell by a mean (standard deviation) 14.9% (18.1) in the acetaminophen arm vs 14.6% (16.0) in the control arm (P = .81). In severe disease, creatinine fell by 31.0% (26.5) in the acetaminophen arm vs 20.4% (21.5) in the control arm (P = .12), and in those with hemolysis by 35.8% (26.7) and 19% (16.6), respectively (P = .07). No difference was seen overall in patients with AKI; however, in those with AKI and hemolysis, creatinine fell by 34.5% (20.7) in the acetaminophen arm vs 25.9% (15.8) in the control arm (P = .041). Mixed-effects modeling demonstrated a benefit of acetaminophen at 72 hours (P = .041) and 1 week (P = .002) in patients with severe malaria and with AKI and hemolysis (P = .027 and P = .002, respectively).

Conclusions

Acetaminophen did not improve creatinine among the entire cohort but may improve renal function in patients with severe knowlesi malaria and in those with AKI and hemolysis.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03056391.