Corrigendum: Adherence to European society of gastrointestinal endoscopy quality performance measures for upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy: a nationwide survey from the Italian society of digestive endoscopy

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.868449.].

A New Step-Up Dual Endoscopic Approach for Large-Size Infected Pancreatic Necrosis: Percutaneous Endoscopic Necrosectomy Followed by Transluminal Endoscopic Drainage/Necrosectomy

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis in 10% to 20% of cases can be associated with necrosis of the pancreatic gland, peripancreatic tissue, or both. We report a case series of a new endoscopic approach to treat infected pancreatic necrosis (IPN).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients with IPN, extending from the perigastric area up to the paracolic gutters or into the pelvis, were prospectively studied from January 2017 to June 2022. The treatment protocol was radiologic percutaneous drainage as the first step, followed by fully covered metal stent placement (FC-SEMS) in the track of the catheter. Percutaneous endoscopic necrosectomy (PEN) was performed 2 to 4 days later using a flexible endoscope through the percutaneous tract. About 2 to 4 weeks later, when a matured sac was visible, EUS-guided endoscopic transluminal drainage (ETD) with lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) was performed. Control of sepsis with resolution of collection(s) was the primary outcome measure.

RESULTS

We included 18 patients, males in 50% of cases with age 60±12 years old. Most frequent cause of pancreatitis was biliary (7 cases) followed by alcoholic in 6 cases; in 3 cases pancreatitis was caused by hyperlipemia and in 2 cases was idiopathic. Mean size of WON was 18±2 cm. For PEN, SEMSs used were esophageal FC-SEMS. LAMS used for ETD were Hot Axios, Hot Spaxus and Nagistent. Mean time of endoscopic intervention for PEN and ETD was 18±3 and 37±4 days, respectively. In 5 cases adverse events occurred: 3 cases of overinflations resolved with introduction of Verres needles in abdomen. In 2 cases postprocedural GI bleeding required endoscopic intervention. In all cases control of sepsis was reached together with resolution of collections. No cases of deaths were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Step-up percutaneous and transluminal endoscopic necrosectomy therapy is an effective strategy for large-size IPN with combined central and peripheral necrosis.

Post-trans-arterial chemoembolization hepatic necrosis and biliary stenosis: Clinical charateristics and endoscopic approach

Liver cancer is the fifth most common tumor and the second highest death-related cancer in the world. Hepatocarcinoma (HCC) represents 90% of liver cancers. According to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer group, different treatment options could be offered to patients in consideration of tumor burden, liver function, patient performance status and biochemical marker serum concentration such as alpha-fetoprotein. Trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the treatment of choice in patients with diagnosis of unresectable HCC not eligible for liver transplantation, and preserved arterial supply. TACE is known to be safe and its complications are generally mild such as post-TACE syndrome, a self-resolving adverse event that occurs in about 90% of patients after the procedure. However, albeit rarely, more severe adverse events such as biloma, sepsis, hepatic failure, chemoagents induced toxicities, and post-TACE liver necrosis can occur. A prompt diagnosis of these clinical conditions is fundamental to prevent further complications. As a result, biliary stenosis could be a rare post-TACE necrosis complication and can be difficult to manage. Complications from untreated biliary strictures include recurring infections, jaundice, chronic cholestasis, and secondary biliary cirrhosis.

SIED-GISCOR recommendations for colonoscopy in screening programs: Part I - Diagnostic

The implementation of FIT programs reduces incidence and mortality from CRC in the screened subjects. The ultimate efficacy for CRC morbidity and mortality prevention in a FIT program depends on the colonoscopy in FIT+ subjects that has the task of detecting and removing these advanced lesions. Recently, there has been growing evidence on factors that influence the quality of colonoscopy specifically withing organized FIT programs, prompting to dedicated interventions in order to maximize the benefit/harm ratio of post-FIT colonoscopy. This document focuses on the diagnostic phase of colonoscopy, providing indications on how to standardise colonoscopy in FIT+ subjects, regarding timing of examination, management of antithrombotic therapy, bowel preparation, competence and sedation.

Repeated endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy of solid pancreatic lesions after previous nondiagnostic or inconclusive sampling

OBJECTIVES

Repeated endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided tissue acquisition represents the standard practice for solid pancreatic lesions after previous nondiagnostic or inconclusive results. Since data are lacking, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of repeated EUS fine-needle biopsy (rEUS-FNB) in this setting. The primary outcome was diagnostic accuracy; sample adequacy, sensitivity, specificity, and safety were secondary outcomes.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing rEUS-FNB for solid pancreatic lesions at 23 Italian centers from 2019 to 2021 were retrieved. Pathology on the surgical specimen, malignant histology together with ≥6-month follow-up, and benign pathology together with ≥12-month follow-up were adopted as gold standards.

RESULTS

Among 462 patients, 56.5% were male, with a median age of 68 (59-75) years, malignancy prevalence 77.0%. Tumor size was 26 (20-35) mm. Second-generation FNB needles were used in 89.6% cases. Diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of rEUS-FNB were 89.2%, 91.4%, and 81.7%, respectively (19 false-negative and 12 false-positive results). On multivariate analysis, rEUS-FNB performed at high-volume centers (odds ratio [OR] 2.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10-3.17; P = 0.03) and tumor size (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.00-1.06; P = 0.05) were independently related to diagnostic accuracy. Sample adequacy was 94.2%. Use of second-generation FNB needles (OR 5.42; 95% CI 2.30-12.77; P < 0.001) and tumor size >23 mm (OR 3.04; 95% CI 1.31-7.06; P = 0.009) were independently related to sample adequacy.

CONCLUSION

Repeated EUS-FNB allowed optimal diagnostic performance after nondiagnostic or inconclusive results. Patients' referral to high-volume centers improved diagnostic accuracy. The use of second-generation FNB needles significantly improved sample adequacy over standard EUS-FNB needles.

Exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection and overstitch suture after incomplete nonexposed endoscopic full-thickness resection

Video 1Endoscopic resection and suture of neoplastic recurrence after the use of endoscopic full-thickness resection devices for invasive rectal adenocarcinoma.

Acute left-sided malignant colonic obstruction: Is there a role for endoscopic stenting?

The therapy of left-sided malignant colonic obstruction continues to be one of the largest problems in clinical practice. Numerous studies on colonic stenting for neoplastic colonic obstruction have been reported in the last decades. Thereby the role of self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) in the treatment of malignant colonic obstruction has become better defined. However, numerous prospective and retrospective investigations have highlighted serious concerns about a possible worse outcome after endoscopic colorectal stenting as a bridge to surgery, particularly in case of perforation. This review analyzes the most recent evidence in order to highlight pros and cons of SEMS placement in left-sided malignant colonic obstruction.

The management of endoscopic retrograde cholangio- pancreatography-related infections risk: results of an italian survey at regional level

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Among the Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) adverse events, an increasingly arising problem is the transmission of Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) Bacteria through duodenoscopes. The aim of this survey was to evaluate the current clinical practice of management of ERCP associated infections in Emilia-Romagna, Italy.

METHODS

An online survey was developed including 12 questions on management of ERCP associated infections risk. The survey was proposed to all 12 endoscopy centers in Emilia Romagna that perform at least &gt; 200 ERCPs per year.

RESULTS

11 centers completed the survey (92%). Among all risk factors of ERCP infections, hospitalization in intensive care units, immunosuppressant therapies, and previous MDR infections have achieved a 80 % minimum of concurrence by our respondents. The majority of them did not have a formalized document in their hospital describing categories and risk factors helpful in the detection of patients undergoing ERCP with an high-level infective risk (9/11, 82%). Most centers (8/11, 72%) do not perform screening in patients at risk of ERCP infections. Post procedural monitoring is performed by 6 of 11 centers (55%).

CONCLUSION

Our survey showed that, at least at regional level, there is a lack of procedures and protocols related to the management of patients at risk of ERCP infections.

Accuracy and agreement of a large panel of endosonographers for endomicroscopy-guided virtual biopsy of pancreatic cystic lesions

BACKGROUND

Although emerging data evidences that EUS-guided needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE) accurately diagnoses pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs), there are a lack of interobserver agreement (IOA) studies utilizing reference histopathological diagnosis and for specific PCL subtypes. Hence, we sought to assess the IOA, intra-observer reliability (IOR), and diagnostic performance of EUS-nCLE using a large cohort of patients with histopathological diagnosis amongst a broad panel of international observers.

METHODS

EUS-nCLE videos (n = 76) of subjects with PCLs [intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN), mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN), serous cystadenoma (SCA), pseudocyst, and cystic-neuroendocrine tumors/solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (cystic-NET/SPN)], simulating clinical prevalence rates were obtained from 3 prospective studies. An international panel of 13 endosonographers with nCLE experience, blinded to all PCL data, evaluated the video library twice with a two-week washout for PCL differentiation (mucinous vs. non-mucinous) and subtype diagnosis.

RESULTS

The IOA (κ = 0.82, 95% CI 0.77-0.87) and IOR (κ = 0.82, 95% CI 0.78-0.85) were "almost perfect" to differentiate mucinous vs. non-mucinous PCLs. For PCL subtype, IOA was highest for SCA (almost perfect; κ = 0.85), followed by IPMN (substantial, κ = 0.72), and cystic-NET/SPN (substantial, κ = 0.73). The IOA was moderate for MCN (κ = 0.47), and pseudocyst (κ = 0.57). Compared to histopathology, observers differentiated mucinous vs. non-mucinous PCLs with high accuracy (94.8%, 95% CI 93.3-96.1). For detecting specific PCLs subtypes, EUS-nCLE was highly accurate in diagnosing non-mucinous cysts (SCA: 98%; cystic-NET/SPN: 96%; pseudocyst: 96%) and slightly less accurate for mucinous lesions (IPMN: 86%; MCN: 84%).

CONCLUSION

Diagnosis of PCLs by EUS-nCLE guided virtual biopsy is very accurate and reliable for the most prevalent pancreatic cysts in clinical practice.

Migration rate using fully covered metal stent in anastomotic strictures after liver transplantation: Results from the BASALT study group

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM

The traditional endoscopic therapy of anastomotic strictures (AS) after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is multiple ERCPs with the insertion of an increasing number of plastic stents side-by-side. Fully covered self-expanding metal stents (cSEMS) could be a valuable option to decrease the number of procedures needed or non-responders to plastic stents. This study aims to retrospectively analyse the results of AS endoscopic treatment by cSEMS and to identify any factors associated with its success.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Ninety-one patients (mean age 55.9 ± 7.6 SD; 73 males) from nine Italian transplantation centres, had a cSEMS positioned for post-OLT-AS between 2007 and 2017. Forty-nine (54%) patients were treated with cSEMS as a second-line treatment.

RESULTS

All the procedures were successfully performed without immediate complications. After ERCP, adverse events occurred in 11% of cases (2 moderate pancreatitis and 8 cholangitis). In 49 patients (54%), cSEMSs migrated. After cSEMS removal, 46 patients (51%) needed further endoscopic (45 patients) or radiological (1 patient) treatments to solve the AS. Lastly, seven patients underwent surgery. Multivariable stepwise logistic regression showed that cSEMS migration was the only factor associated with further treatments (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.0-6.6; p value 0.03); cSEMS implantation before 12 months from OLT was associated with stent migration (OR 5.2, 95% CI 1.7-16.0; p value 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

cSEMS appears to be a safe tool to treat AS. cSEMS migration is the main limitation to its routinary implantation and needs to be prevented, probably with the use of new generation anti-migration stents.

Adherence to European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Quality Performance Measures for Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Nationwide Survey From the Italian Society of Digestive Endoscopy

Background

The quality of gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy has been recently identified as a major priority being associated with many outcomes and patient's experience.

Objective

To assess adherence of endoscopists to the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) quality performance measures for upper and lower GI endoscopy in Italy.

Methods

All endoscopist members of the Italian Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SIED) were invited from October 2018 to December 2018 to participate to a self-administered questionnaire-based survey. The questionnaire included questions on demographics and professional characteristics, and the recent ESGE quality performance measures for upper and lower GI endoscopy.

Results

A total of 392 endoscopists participated in the study. Only a minority (18.2%) of participants recorded the duration of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and 51% provided accurate photo documentation in the minimum standard of 90% of cases. Almost all endoscopists correctly used Prague and Los Angeles classifications (87.8% and 98.2%, respectively), as well as Seattle and Management of precancerous conditions and lesions in the stomach (MAPS) biopsy protocols (86.5% and 91.4%, respectively). However, only 52.8% of participants monitored complications after therapeutic EGD, and 40.8% recorded patients with a diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus (BE). With regard to colonoscopy, almost all endoscopists (93.9%) used the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale for measuring bowel preparation quality and reported a cecal intubation rate ≥90%. However, about a quarter (26.2%) of participants reported an adenoma detection rate of <25%, only 52.8% applied an appropriate polypectomy technique, 48% monitored complications after the procedure, and 12.4% measured patient's experience.

Conclusion

The adherence of endoscopists to ESGE performance measures for GI endoscopy is sub-optimal in Italy. There is a need to disseminate and implement performance measures and endorse educational and scientific interventions on the quality of endoscopy.

Needle-based confocal endomicroscopy in the discrimination of mucinous from non-mucinous pancreatic cystic lesions

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are considered a precursor of pancreatic cancer. Needle-based confocal endomicroscopy (nCLE) is an imaging technique that enables visualization of the mucosal layer to a micron resolution. Its application has demonstrated promising results in the distinction of PCLs. This study evaluated the utility of nCLE in patients with indeterminate PCLs undergoing endoscopic ultrasound fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) to distinguish mucinous from non-mucinous lesions.

AIM

To evaluate the accuracy of nCLE in indeterminate PCLs undergoing EUS-FNA to distinguish mucinous from non-mucinous lesions.

METHODS

Patients who required EUS-FNA between 2015 and 2017 were enrolled prospectively. During EUS-FNA, confocal imaging, analyses of the tumor markers carcinoembryonic antigen and amylase, and cytologic examination were conducted. All patients were followed for at least 12 mo and underwent laboratory testing and computed tomography scanning or magnetic resonance imaging. nCLE videos were independently reviewed by 6 observers to reach a final diagnosis (mucinous vs non-mucinous) based on criteria derived from previous studies; if there was disagreement > 20%, a final diagnosis was discussed after consensus re-evaluation. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of nCLE were calculated. Adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients were included in this study. Final diagnoses were derived from surgery in 10 patients, cytology in 13, and imaging and multidisciplinary team review in 36. Three patients were excluded from final diagnosis due to problems with nCLE acquisition. Fifty-six patients were included in the final analysis. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of nCLE were 80% [95% confidence interval (CI): 65-90], 100% (95%CI: 72-100), and 84% (95%CI: 72-93), respectively. Post-procedure acute pancreatitis occurred in 5%.

CONCLUSION

EUS-nCLE performs better than standard EUS-FNA for the diagnosis of indeterminate PCL.

Factors associated with risk of COVID-19 contagion for endoscopy healthcare workers: A survey from the Italian society of digestive endoscopy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The present study was aimed to assess the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and associated factors among HCWs in endoscopy centers in Italy.

METHODS

All members of the Italian Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SIED) were invited to participate to a questionnaire-based survey during the first months of the COVID-19 outbreak in Italy.

RESULTS

314/1306 (24%) SIED members accounting for 201/502 (40%) endoscopic centers completed the survey. Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) were available in most centers, but filtering face-piece masks (FFP2 or FFP3) and negative pressure room were not in 10.9 and 75.1%. Training courses on PPE use were provided in 57.2% of centers only; there was at least one positive HCW in 17.4% of centers globally, 107/3308 (3.2%) HCWs were diagnosed with COVID-19 with similar rates of physicians (2.9%), nurses (3.5%) and other health operators (3.5%). Involvement in a COVID-19 care team (OR: 4.96) and the lack of training courses for PPE, (OR: 2.65) were associated with increased risk.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of COVID-19 among endoscopy HCWs was not negligible and was associated with work in a COVID-19 care team and lack of education on proper PPE use. These data deserve attention during the subsequent waves.

A multicenter survey on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography during the COVID-19 pandemic in northern and central Italy

Background and study aims  COVID-19 has dramatically impacted endoscopy practice because upper endoscopy procedures can be aerosol-generating. Most elective procedures have been rescheduled. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is frequently performed in emergency or urgent settings in which rescheduling is not possible. We evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ERCP in Italy during the SARS-CoV-2 lockdown, in areas with high incidence of COVID-19. Patients and methods  We performed a retrospective survey of centers performing ERCP in high COVID-19 prevalence areas in Italy to collect information regarding clinical data from patients undergoing ERCP, staff, case-volume and organization of endoscopy units from March 8, 2020 to April 30, 2020. Results  We collected data from 31 centers and 804 patients. All centers adopted a triage and/or screening protocol for SARS-CoV-2 and performed follow-up of patients 2 weeks after the procedure. ERCP case-volume was reduced by 44.1 % compared to the respective 2019 timeframe. Of the 804 patients undergoing ERCP, 22 (2.7 %) were positive for COVID-19. Adverse events occurred at a similar rate to previously published data. Of the patients, endoscopists, and nurses, 1.6 %, 11.7 %, and 4.9 %, respectively, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 at follow up. Only 38.7 % of centers had access to a negative-pressure room for ERCP. Conclusion  The case-volume reduction for ERCP during lockdown was lower than for other gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures. No definitive conclusions can be drawn about the percentage of SARS-CoV-2-positive patients and healthcare workers observed after ERCP. Appropriate triage and screening of patients and adherence to society recommendations are paramount.

Dilation assisted stone extraction for complex biliary lithiasis: Technical aspects and practical principles

Common bile duct stones are frequently diagnosed worldwide and are one of the main indications for endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography. Endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) has been used for the removal of bile duct stones for the past 40 years, providing a wide opening to allow extraction. Up to 15% of patients present with complicated choledocholithiasis. In this context, additional therapeutic approaches have been proposed such as endoscopic mechanical lithotripsy, intraductal or extracorporeal lithotripsy, or endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD). EPLBD combined with EST was introduced in 2003 to facilitate the passage of large or multiple bile duct stones using a balloon greater than 12 mm in diameter. EPLBD without EST was introduced as a simplified technique in 2009. Dilation-assisted stone extraction (DASE) is the combination of two techniques: EPLBD and sub-maximal EST. Several studies have reported this technique as safe and effective in patients with large bile duct stones, without any increased risk of adverse events such as pancreatitis, bleeding, or perforation. Nevertheless, it is difficult to analyze the outcomes of DASE because there are no standard techniques and definitions between studies. The purpose of this paper is to provide technical guidance and specific information about the main issues regarding DASE, based on current literature and daily clinical experience in biliary referral centers.

Common bile duct lesions - how cholangioscopy helps rule out intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct: A case report

BACKGROUND

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB) is a rare variant of bile duct tumors, characterized by an exophytic growth exhibiting a papillary mass within the bile duct lumen and it can be localized anywhere along the biliary tree, with morphological variations and occasional invasion.

CASE SUMMARY

We present a patient with obstructive jaundice who was diagnosed with IPNB using cholangioscopy during endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography. Using the SpyGlass DS II technology, we were able to define tumor extension and obtain targeted Spy-byte biopsies. After multidisciplinary evaluation, the patient was scheduled for surgical resection of the tumor, which was radically removed.

CONCLUSION

Cholangioscopy appears to be crucial for the rapid and clear diagnosis of lesions in the bile duct to achieve radical surgical resection.

COVID-19 and the Gastrointestinal System: Lesions Beyond the Symptoms?

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has radically changed the daily hospital care activity for all medical specialists. Although the predominant symptoms of this new coronavirus infection are respiratory, the gastrointestinal tract is also significantly involved. In this short report, we will discuss a new and unexpected clinical presentation related to COVID-19 colonization of upper gastrointestinal tract.

Over-the-scope clip vs epinephrine with clip for first-line hemostasis in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a propensity score match analysis

Background and study aims  The over-the-scope clip (OTSC) is a novel tool used to improve the maintenance of hemostasis for non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB); however, studies on the comparison with "conventional" techniques are lacking. In this study, we aimed to compare first-line endoscopic hemostasis achieved using conventional techniques with that achieved using OTSC placement for NVUGIB. Patients and methods  From January 2007 to March 2018, 793 consecutive patients underwent upper endoscopy with the hemostasis procedure. Among them, 327 patients were eligible for inclusion (112 patients had OTSC placement and 215 underwent conventional hemostasis). After propensity score matching and adjustment for confounding factors, 84 patients were stratified into the "conventional" group and 84 into the OTSC group. Patient characteristics and outcomes (rebleeding rate, mortality rate within 30 days, and adverse events) were compared between the two groups. Results  In the unmatched cohort, hemostasis with OTSC was more frequent in cases of duodenal ulcers with Forrest Ia to IIa and in patients with a higher Rockall score compared with the "conventional group". In the matched cohort, 93 % of the patients in the "conventional group" underwent hemostasis with epinephrine + through-the-scope clip. Rebleeding events were significantly less frequent in the OTSC group (8 % vs 20 %, 95 %CI 3 - 16 vs 12 - 30; P  = 0.02); however, the mortality rate in the two groups was not significantly different (6 % vs 2 %, 95 %CI 1 - 8 vs 2 - 13; P  = 0.4). Conclusions  OTSC is a safe and effective tool for achieving hemostasis, and we recommend its use as the first-line therapy for lesions with a high risk of rebleeding and in patients with a high risk Rockall score.

Endo-therapies for biliary duct-to-duct anastomotic stricture after liver transplantation: Outcomes of a nationwide survey

BACKGROUND

The most appropriate endo-therapeutic approach to biliary anastomotic strictures is yet to be defined.

AIM

To retrospectively report on the endo-therapy of duct-to-duct anastomotic strictures during 2013 in Italy.

METHODS

Data were collected from 16 Endoscopy Units at the Italian Liver Transplantation Centers (BASALT study group).

RESULTS

Complete endo-therapy and follow-up data are available for 181 patients: 101 treated with plastic multistenting, 26 with fully covered self-expandable metal stenting and 54 with single stenting. Radiological success was achieved for 145 patients (80%), that is, 88% of plastic multistenting, 88% of self-expandable metal stenting and 61% of single stenting (P < 0.001 vs plastic multistenting; P < 0.05 vs self-expandable metal stenting). After first-line endo-therapy failure, the patients underwent a second-line endo-therapy with plastic multistenting for 25%, fully covered self-expandable metal stenting for 53% and single stenting for 22% of cases, and radiological success was achieved for 84%, that is, 100%, 85% and 63% with plastic multistenting, self-expandable metal stenting and single stenting (P < 0.05 vs plastic multistenting or self-expandable metal stenting) respectively. Procedure-related complications occurred in 7.8% of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatographies. Overall, clinical success was achieved in 87% of patients after a median follow-up of 25 months.

CONCLUSION

Plastic multistenting is confirmed as the preferred first-line treatment, while fully covered self-expandable metal stenting as rescue option for biliary anastomotic strictures. Single stenting has sub-optimal results and should be abandoned.

First-line endoscopic treatment with over-the-scope clips in patients with either upper or lower gastrointestinal bleeding: a multicenter study

Background and study aims  Endoscopic treatment is the mainstay approach for gastrointestinal bleeding, in either upper (UGIB) or lower (LGIB) tract. The over-the-scope clip (OTSC) may overcome limitations of standard clips or thermocoagulation in high-risk bleeding lesions. We evaluate the main clinically relevant outcomes following endoscopic hemostasis with OTSC in high-risk lesions and/or patients. Patients and methods  This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected databases including all patients with UGIB and LGIB who underwent OTCS placement as first-line treatment in eleven tertiary endoscopic referral centers. Technical success, primary hemostasis, rebleeding, blood transfusion, hospital stay, and hemorrhage-related mortality rates were evaluated. Results  Data from 286 patients, with either UGIB (N = 214) or LGIB (N = 72) were available. Overall, 112 patients (39.2 %) were receiving antithrombotic therapy. Technical success and primary hemostasis rates were 97.9 % and 96.4 %, respectively. Early rebleeding occurred in 4.4 %, more frequently in those on antithrombotic therapy, and no late rebleeding was observed. Following a successful primary haemostasis, only 5.2 % patients needed blood transfusions, and the median hospital stay was 4 days (range: 3 - 11). Eighteen patients with either technical failure (N = 6) or rebleeding (N = 12) underwent radiological or surgical approaches. Overall, bleeding-related deaths occurred in 5 (1.7 %) patients, including 3 patients with technical procedural failure, and 2 in the rebleeding group.  Conclusions  Data from our large, multicenter study show that OTSC placement is an effective first-line treatment for hemostasis in high-risk patients and/or lesions both in upper and lower gastrointestinal tract.

Endoscopic ultrasound guided needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy in solid pancreatic masses - a prospective validation study

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

 Endoscopic ultrasound fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is a keystone in diagnosing and staging of pancreatic masses. Recently, a microfiber that can pass through a 19-gauge needle has been introduced for confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE). The aims of this study were to evaluate the diagnostic value and the reproducibility of nCLE criteria for solid malignant lesions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

 This prospective dual-center study included patients with pancreatic masses suspicious of malignancy referred for EUS-FNA. Endomicroscopic imaging was performed under EUS-guidance until organ-specific structures were obtained. Afterwards, standard cytology was obtained and patients were followed for up to 12 months. All nCLE parameters included in former studies were correlated with the final diagnosis (dark lobular structures/normal acinar cells, dark cell aggregates > 40 µm, dilated irregular vessels with fluorescein leakage, fine white fibrous bands, small black cell movements, pseudoglandular structures). Finally, three CLE novices and three CLE experts assessed the unedited movies from all patients.

RESULTS

 Twenty-eight patients were enrolled in the study. A final diagnosis was obtained in 24 patients (86 %). One patient (3 %) died before a diagnosis was obtained, while 3 were lost to follow-up (11 %). In 18/24 patients (74 %) the diagnosis was malignant. The mean sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for the nCLE parameters ranged from 19 - 93 %, 0 - 56 %, 26 - 69 %, respectively. The inter-observer values ranged from κ = 0.20 - 0.41 for novices and κ = -0.02 - 0.38 for experts.

CONCLUSIONS

 The diagnostic value of nCLE in solid pancreatic masses is questionable and the inter-observer agreement for both novices and CLE experts appears limited.

Post-polypectomy bleeding after colonoscopy on uninterrupted aspirin/non steroideal antiflammatory drugs: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the risk of post-polypectomy bleeding (PPB) in patients that underwent colorectal polypectomy and exposed to ASA/NSAIDs.

METHODS

Relevant publications were identified in MEDLINE/EMBASE for the period 1950-2016. Studies with specified ASA/NSAIDs exposure and bleeding rate were included. Study quality was ascertained according to Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Forest plot was based on fixed or random effect models in relation to the heterogeneity.

RESULTS

11 studies (4 prospective and 7 retrospective) including 9307 patients were included in the analyses. Overall, 344 patients (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.2-2.7; p-value 0.001, I² 52%) experienced rectal bleeding after procedure. While the rate of immediate PPB on aspirin and/or NSAIDs was not increased (OR 1.1; CI 95% 0.6-2.1; d.f.=1, p=0.64, I² 0%), the risk of delayed PPB was augmented (OR 1.7; 95% CI 1.2-2.2; d.f.=8, p=0.127, I² 36%).

CONCLUSIONS

ASA/NSAIDs are not a risk factor for immediate PPB but the chance of delayed is increased.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy as salvation technique post-Heller: International experience

BACKGROUND

Treatment for achalasia has traditionally been Heller myotomy (HM). Despite its excellent efficacy rate, a number of patients remain symptomatic post-procedure. Limited data exist as to the best management for recurrence of symptoms post-HM. We present an international, multicenter experience evaluating the efficacy and safety of post-HM peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM).

METHODS

Patients who underwent POEM post-HM from 13 centers from January 2012 to January 2017 were included as part of a prospective registry. Technical success was defined as successful completion of the myotomy. Clinical success was defined as an Eckardt score of ≤3 on 12-month follow up. Adverse events (AE) including anesthesia-related, operative, and postoperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients were included in the study (mean age 54.2, 47% male). Technical success was achieved in 100% of patients. Clinical success on long-term follow up was achieved in 48 patients (94%), with a mean change in Eckardt score of 6.25. Seven patients (13%) had AE: six experienced periprocedural mucosal defect treated endoscopically and two patients developed mediastinitis treated conservatively.

CONCLUSION

For patients with persistent symptoms after HM, POEM is a safe salvation technique with good short-term efficacy. As a result of the challenge associated with repeat HM, POEM might become the preferred technique in this patient population. Further studies with longer follow up are needed.

Postreflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index and nocturnal baseline impedance can link PPI-responsive heartburn to reflux better than acid exposure time

BACKGROUND

Acid exposure time (AET) is considered the most useful parameter to predict response of reflux-related heartburn to medical or surgical treatment. However, recent studies showed high rates of heartburn response to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy in patients with normal AET. We aimed to compare the efficacy of postreflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) with AET in linking PPI-responsive heartburn to reflux.

METHODS

Off-therapy impedance-pH tracings from 425 patients, 317 with PPI-responsive and 108 with PPI-refractory heartburn were blindly re-analyzed. Demographic and endoscopic characteristics, conventional impedance-pH variables, PSPW index, and MNBI were assessed with multivariate logistic regression to identify factors independently associated with PPI responsiveness. Prediction models were developed to assess the strength of reflux linkage with factors independently associated with PPI responsiveness by calculating the area under the curve (AUC) at receiver-operating-characteristic (ROC) analysis.

KEY RESULTS

At multivariate logistic regression analysis, AET, MNBI, and PSPW index were the only factors independently associated with PPI responsiveness, abnormal values found in 60%, 76%, and 92% of PPI-responsive cases (P<.017). At ROC analysis, PSPW index (AUC:.794, P=.002) and MNBI (AUC: 0.742, P=.003), both separately and combined (AUC: 0.811, P<.001) linked reflux with PPI-responsiveness better than AET (AUC: 0.687).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

AET, PSPW index, and MNBI are independently associated with PPI-responsive heartburn. PSPW index and MNBI can link PPI-responsive heartburn to reflux better than AET and should become part of the standard analysis of impedance-pH tracings.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage for acute cholecystitis with a silicone-covered nitinol short bilaterally flared stent: a case series

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM

Gallbladder drainage in patients with cholecystitis who are unsuitable for surgery may be performed by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided placement of specifically designed fully covered metal stents. We describe the first case series of patients treated with a silicone-covered nitinol stent with bilateral anchor flanges.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data from consecutive patients with acute cholecystitis who were deemed unsuitable candidates for surgery were collected. The stent placement procedure was performed in two tertiary endoscopy centers by four experienced endoscopists. Technical and clinical success rates, as well as adverse events and clinical outcome at follow-up, were assessed.

RESULTS

EUS-guided drainage for cholecystitis was performed in 16 patients (mean age 84 years; nine males). Technical and clinical success rates were 100 % (16/16) and 94 % (15/16), respectively; an early failure due to stone impaction occurred in the remaining case and required placement of a new stent. Symptom relief occurred in 11/15 cases (73 %) within 1 day, and within 2 days in the remaining 4 patients. Bleeding occurred in two patients (13 %): in one patient intraprocedural bleeding was successfully stopped during endoscopy; and delayed bleeding occurred in one patient requiring arterial embolization for catastrophic bleeding (patient died 10 days later). No cases of cholecystitis recurrence or biliary obstruction were observed during a median follow-up of 112 days (range 49 - 180 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed that EUS-guided gallbladder drainage with a specially designed stent is feasible and successful in patients with acute cholecystitis who are unfit for surgery.

Erratum: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage for acute cholecystitis with a silicone-covered nitinol short bilaterally flared stent: a case series

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-118659.].

Over-the-scope clip closure for treatment of post-pancreaticogastrostomy pancreatic fistula: A case series

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The over-the-scope clip (OTSC) system is a recently developed endoscopic device. In the last few years, it has been successfully used for severe bleeding or deep wall lesions, or perforations of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We hereby report a series of patients with post-pancreaticogastrostomy pancreatic fistula in whom OTSC were used as endoscopic treatment.

METHODS

From January 2012 to July 2015, we prospectively collected data on cases of postoperative pancreatic fistula. These patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy in a high-volume center of hepatobiliopancreatic surgery. After conservative management, OTSC closure was done by single skilled operators in anesthesiologist-assisted deep sedation.

RESULTS

A total of seven patients were enrolled. According to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery criteria, we observed grade B postoperative pancreatic fistula in all cases. All patients were treated with 12/6 t-type OTSC. In two cases, a second clip was successfully applied to a second site adjacent to the original closure site. In all cases, subsequent fluoroscopy showed no contrastographic spreading through the wall. There were no complications related to the procedure itself, not from the endoscopy point of view, nor from the anesthesiological perspective. There were no device malfunctions. Further clinical and endoscopic evaluation was made 8 weeks later and showed no fistula or anastomotic defect recurrence. No patients required additional endoscopic or interventional procedures.

CONCLUSION

In consideration of clinical and technical success, OTSC placement in POPF seems to be effective, safe and technically relatively easy to carry out.

Pre-operative Diagnosis of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors with Endoscopic Ultrasonography and Computed Tomography in a Large Series

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Diagnosis of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (p-NETs) is frequently challenging. We describe a large series of patients with p-NETs in whom both pre-operative Computed Tomography (CT) and Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS) were performed.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected sporadic p-NET cases. All patients underwent both standard multidetector CT study and EUS with fine-needle aspiration (FNA). The final histological diagnosis was achieved on a post-surgical specimen. Chromogranin A (CgA) levels were measured.

RESULTS

A total of 80 patients (mean age: 58 +/- 14.2 years; males: 42) were enrolled. The diameter of functioning was significantly lower than that of non-functioning p-NETs (11.2 +/- 8.5 mm vs 19.8 +/- 12.2 mm; P = 0.0004). The CgA levels were more frequently elevated in non-functioning than functioning pNET patients (71.4% vs 46.9%; P = 0.049). Overall, the CT study detected the lesion in 51 (63.7%) cases, being negative in 26 (68.4%) patients with a tumor </=10 mm, and in a further 3 (15%) cases with a tumor diameter </=20 mm. CT overlooked the pancreatic lesion more frequently in patients with functioning than non-functioning p-NETs (46.5% vs 24.3%; P = 0.002). EUS allowed a more precise pre-operative tumor measurement, with an overall incorrect dimension in only 9 (11.2%) patients. Of note, the EUS-guided FNA suspected the neuroendocrine nature of tumor in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Data of this large case series would suggest that the EUS should be included in the diagnostic work-up in all patients with a suspected p-NET, even when the CT study was negative for a primary lesion in the pancreas.

Colonic Postpolypectomy Bleeding Is Related to Polyp Size and Heparin Use

Background/Aims

We studied factors influencing colon postpolypectomy bleeding (PPB), with a focus on antithrombotic and anticoagulation therapy.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective case-control study of all patients who underwent polypectomy at our tertiary referral center in Italy between 2007 and 2014. Polyp characteristics (number of polyps removed per patient, size, morphology, location, resection technique, prophylactic hemostasis methods) and patient characteristics (age, sex, comorbidities, medication) were analyzed.

Results

The case and control groups included 118 and 539 patients, respectively. The two groups differed in the frequency of comorbidities (69% vs. 40%, p=0.001), polyps removed (27% vs. 18%, p=0.02), and use of heparin therapy (23% vs. 1%, p<0.001). A total of 279 polyps in the case group and 966 in the control group were nonpedunculated (69% vs. 81%, p=0.01) and measured ≥10 mm (78% vs. 32%, p=0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that polyps ≥10 mm (odds ratio [OR], 6.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3–15.5), administration of heparin (OR, 16.5; 95% CI, 6.2–44), comorbidity (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.4–3.9), and presence of ≥2 risk factors (OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.7–6.0) were associated with PPB.

Conclusions

The incidence of PPB increases with polyp size ≥10 mm, heparin use, comorbidity, and presence of ≥2 risk factors.

Endoscopic management of patients with post-surgical leaks involving the gastrointestinal tract: A large case series

BACKGROUND

Post-surgical anastomotic leaks often require a re-intervention, are associated with a definite morbidity and mortality, and with relevant costs. We described a large series of patients with different post-surgical leaks involving the gastrointestinal tract managed with endoscopy as initial approach.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected cases with anastomotic leaks managed with different endoscopic approaches (with surgical or radiological drainage when needed) in two endoscopic centres during 5 years. Interventions included: (1) over-the-scope clip (OTSC) positioning; (2) placement of a covered self-expanding metal stent (SEMS); (3) fibrin glue injection (Tissucol); and (4) endo-sponge application, according to both the endoscopic feature and patient's status.

RESULTS

A total of 76 patients underwent endoscopic treatment for a leak either in the upper (47 cases) or lower (29 cases) gastrointestinal tract, and the approach was successful in 39 (83%) and 22 (75.9%) patients, respectively, accounting for an overall 80.3% success rate. Leak closure was achieved in 84.9% and 78.3% of patients managed by using a single or a combination of endoscopic devices. Overall, leak closure failed in 15 (19.7%) patients, and the surgical approach was successful in all 14 patients who underwent re-intervention, whilst one patient died due to sepsis at 7 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that an endoscopic approach, with surgical or radiological drainage when needed, is successful and safe in the majority of patients with anastomotic gastrointestinal leaks. Therefore, an endoscopic treatment could be attempted before resorting to more invasive, costly and risky re-intervention.

Analyses of the Post-reflux Swallow-induced Peristaltic Wave Index and Nocturnal Baseline Impedance Parameters Increase the Diagnostic Yield of Impedance-pH Monitoring of Patients With Reflux Disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Analyses of impedance parameters such as the post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index and the mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) have been proposed to increase the accuracy of diagnosis of reflux disease. We assessed whether these improve the diagnostic yield of impedance pH monitoring of reflux disease.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study of consecutive patients with proton pump inhibitor-responsive heartburn who underwent 24-hour impedance pH monitoring at hospitals in Italy from January 2011 through December 2013. Reviewers blindly analyzed off-therapy impedance pH tracings from 289 patients with proton pump inhibitor-responsive heartburn, 68 with erosive reflux disease and 221 with non-erosive reflux disease (NERD), along with 50 healthy individuals (controls). The PSPW index, the MNBI, the esophageal acid exposure time, the number of total refluxes, and the bolus exposure were calculated, as well as the symptom association probability (SAP) and the symptom index (SI).

RESULTS

In receiver operating characteristic analysis, the area under curve of the PSPW index (0.977; 95% confidence interval, 0.961-0.993) was significantly greater than that of the other impedance pH parameters in identifying patients with reflux disease (P < .001). The PSPW index and the MNBI identified patients with erosive reflux disease with the highest level of sensitivity (100% and 91%, respectively), as well as the 118 pH-positive (99% and 86%) and 103 pH-negative (77% and 56%) cases of NERD. The PSPW index and the MNBI identified pH-negative NERD with the highest level of sensitivity; values were 82% and 52% for the 65 SAP-positive and/or SI-positive cases and 68% and 63% for the 38 SAP-negative and SI-negative cases. Diagnoses of NERD were confirmed by pH-only criteria, including those that were positive on the basis of the SAP or SI, for 165 of 221 cases (75%) and by impedance pH criteria for 216 of 221 cases (98%) (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The PSPW index and the MNBI increase the diagnostic yield of impedance pH monitoring of patients with reflux disease. Analysis of impedance pH data by calculating the PSPW index and the MNBI can increase the accuracy of diagnosis of patients with reflux disease, compared with pH-only data.

Autofluorescence-Directed Confocal Endomicroscopy in Combination With a Three-Biomarker Panel Can Inform Management Decisions in Barrett's Esophagus

OBJECTIVES

Barrett's esophagus (BE) surveillance with white-light endoscopy and quadrantic biopsies (Seattle protocol) is resource intensive and limited by sampling error. Previous work suggests that autofluorescence imaging (AFI) in combination with a molecular panel might reduce the number of biopsies, but this was not sufficiently sensitive for low-grade dysplasia, now a point for endoscopic intervention. Here we used AFI to direct narrow-field imaging tools for real-time optical assessment of dysplasia and biopsies for a biomarker panel. We compared the new diagnostic algorithm with the current standard.

METHODS

A total of 55 patients with BE were recruited at a single tertiary referral center. Patients underwent high-resolution endoscopy followed by AFI. AFI-targeted areas (n=194) were examined in turn by narrow-band imaging with magnification (NBIz) and probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE). Biopsies were taken from AFI-targeted areas and tested using an established molecular panel comprising aneuploidy plus cyclin A and p53 immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

In the per-patient analysis the overall sensitivity and specificity of AFI-targeted pCLE were 100% and 53.6% for high-grade dysplasia/intramucosal cancer and 96.4% and 74.1% for any grade of dysplasia, respectively. NBIz had equal specificity for dysplasia detection (74.1%), but significantly lower sensitivity (57.1%) than pCLE. The time required to perform AFI-targeted pCLE was shorter that that taken by the Seattle protocol (P=0.0004). We found enrichment of molecular abnormalities in areas with optical dysplasia by pCLE (P<0.001), regardless of histologic dysplasia. The addition of the 3-biomarker panel reduced the false positive rate of pCLE by 50%, leading to sensitivity and specificity for any grade of dysplasia of 89.2% and 88.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of pCLE on AFI-targeted areas and a 3-biomarker panel identifies patients with dysplasia.

First-line endoscopic treatment with OTSC in patients with high-risk non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding: preliminary experience in 40 cases

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

The over-the-scope clip (OTSC; Ovesco, Tübingen, Germany) is a novel endoscopic clipping device designed for tissue approximation. The device has been used in the closure of fistulas and perforations. We hereby report a series of patients with high-risk non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) lesions in whom OTSCs were used as first-line endoscopic treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We prospectively collected and retrospectively analysed data over a period of 12 months from October 2013 to November 2014 from all consecutive patients who underwent emergency endoscopy for acute severe high-risk NVUGIB and were treated with OTSC as primary first-line therapy.

RESULTS

We included forty consecutive patients with mean age 69 years (range 25-94 years). All patients were treated with the non-traumatic version of the OTSC system (23 with the 11 mm version and 17 with the 12 mm version). Indications for OTSC treatment included gastric ulcer with large vessel (Forrest IIa) (n = 8, 20 %), duodenal ulcer (Forrest Ib) (n = 7, 18 %), duodenal ulcer with large vessel (Forrest IIa) (n = 6, 15 %), Dieulafoy's lesion (n = 6, 15 %) and other secondary indications (n = 13, 32 %). Technical success and primary haemostasis were achieved in all patients (100 %). No re-bleeding, need for surgical or radiological embolization treatment or other complications were observed during the follow-up period of 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude OTSC placement as a first-line endoscopic treatment seems to be effective, safe and easy to perform and should be considered in patients with high-risk NVUGIB lesions.

A multimodal, one-session endoscopic approach for management of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

A number of patients with inoperable pancreatic cancer may concurrently complain of pain, biliary obstruction, and duodenal stenosis. Endoscopic palliative treatments and opioid therapy are generally performed in these patients. The study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of a multimodal 'one-Session Three Endoscopic Procedures' (one-STEP) to simultaneously treat cholestasis, restore duodenal transit, and achieve pain relief in selected patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

Selected patients diagnosed with an advanced pancreatic cancer presenting with biliary obstruction, duodenal stenosis, and severe pain treated with the one-STEP were considered. The one-STEP endoscopic approach included biliary and duodenal stenting, and EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis. The technical success rate, complications, pain relief, and opioid use at follow-up were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 15 patients were treated. The one-STEP was successful in 13 (87 %) cases, while it failed in two patients due to the impossibility of dilating the neoplastic mass for creating a fistula. No endoscopy-related complications occurred. The median of pain intensity was 8 (range 7-10) at entry and significantly decreased to 2 (range 2-4) 72 h following celiac plexus neurolysis. At follow-up (median survival 4 months; range 3-8), only 3 (20 %) needed of narcotic treatment in the last period.

CONCLUSIONS

The multimodal one-STEP is an effective and safe endoscopic approach for palliative treatment of biliary and duodenal stenosis, and for relieving chronic pain in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

Use of probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) in gastrointestinal applications. A consensus report based on clinical evidence

BACKGROUND

Probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) provides microscopic imaging during an endoscopic procedure. Its introduction as a standard modality in gastroenterology has brought significant progress in management strategies, affecting many aspects of clinical care and requiring standardisation of practice and training.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to provide guidance on the standardisation of its practice and training in Barrett's oesophagus, biliary strictures, colorectal lesions and inflammatory bowel diseases.

METHODS

Initial statements were developed by five group leaders, based on the available clinical evidence. These statements were then voted and edited by the 26 participants, using a modified Delphi approach. After two rounds of votes, statements were validated if the threshold of agreement was higher than 75%.

RESULTS

Twenty-six experts participated and, among a total of 77 statements, 61 were adopted (79%) and 16 were rejected (21%). The adoption of each statement was justified by the grade of evidence.

CONCLUSION

pCLE should be used to enhance the diagnostic arsenal in the evaluation of these indications, by providing microscopic information which improves the diagnostic performance of the physician. In order actually to implement this technology in the clinical routine, and to ensure good practice, standardised initial and continuing institutional training programmes should be established.

Cholangiocarcinoma and malignant bile duct obstruction: A review of last decades advances in therapeutic endoscopy

In the last decades many advances have been achieved in endoscopy, in the diagnosis and therapy of cholangiocarcinoma, however blood test, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography scan may fail to detect neoplastic disease at early stage, thus the diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma is achieved usually at unresectable stage. In the last decades the role of endoscopy has moved from a diagnostic role to an invaluable therapeutic tool for patients affected by malignant bile duct obstruction. One of the major issues for cholangiocarcinoma is bile ducts occlusion, leading to jaundice, cholangitis and hepatic failure. Currently, endoscopy has a key role in the work up of cholangiocarcinoma, both in patients amenable to surgical intervention as well as in those unfit for surgery or not amenable to immediate surgical curative resection owing to locally advanced or advanced disease, with palliative intention. Endoscopy allows successful biliary drainage and stenting in more than 90% of patients with malignant bile duct obstruction, and allows rapid reduction of jaundice decreasing the risk of biliary sepsis. When biliary drainage and stenting cannot be achieved with endoscopy alone, endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage represents an effective alternative method affording successful biliary drainage in more than 80% of cases. The purpose of this review is to focus on the currently available endoscopic management options in patients with cholangiocarcinoma.

Neoplastic progression in short-segment Barrett's oesophagus is associated with impairment of chemical clearance, but not inadequate acid suppression by proton pump inhibitor therapy

BACKGROUND

Pathophysiological mechanisms associated with neoplastic progression in patients with short-segment Barrett's oesophagus (SSBO), who represent the vast majority of the Barrett population, have not been defined.

AIM

To evaluate pathophysiological characteristics of patients with SSBO and dysplasia detected at 3-year surveillance endoscopy (incident dysplasia).

METHODS

Patients with SSBO underwent impedance-pH monitoring during heartburn-suppressing PPI therapy. Fifteen patients (12 males, median age 62 years) with incident dysplasia and 50 patients (43 males, median age 59 years) without dysplasia were compared. Impedance-pH parameters, including chemical clearance assessed by the post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index, were evaluated.

RESULTS

All patients declared persisting heartburn suppression on maintenance PPI therapy at 3-year follow-up, 58/65 (89%) with standard dosages. The median gastric and oesophageal acid exposure time (GAET and OAET) did not differ between patients with and without incident dysplasia at the time of surveillance (36% and 0.6% vs. 33% and 0.5%) or index endoscopy (33% and 0.3% vs. 41% and 0.5%) (P > 0.05). Contrastingly, the median PSPW index was significantly lower in patients with than in patients without incident dysplasia at the time of surveillance (15%, vs. 32%) and index endoscopy (12% vs. 30%) (P = 0.001). The PSPW index, the GAET and the OAET did not vary over time (P > 0.05). A PSPW index <26% was predictive of incident dysplasia with a 75% accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS

Neoplastic progression in SSBO is associated with impairment of chemical clearance, but not inadequate acid suppression by PPI therapy. Neoplastic progression in SSBO can be predicted by a low PSPW index.