Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy versus botulinum toxin injection for the treatment of refractory gastroparesis: results of a double-blind randomized controlled study

INTRODUCTION

Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is a promising technique for treating refractory gastroparesis. We present the first double-blind randomized study comparing the clinical efficacy of G-POEM versus pyloric botulinum toxin injection (BTI).

METHODS

This randomized study, conducted in two expert centers, enrolled patients with refractory gastroparesis, medically managed for >6 months and confirmed by gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES), into two groups, G-POEM versus BTI, with follow-up of 1 year. The primary end point was the 3-month clinical efficacy, defined as a >1-point decrease in the mean Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) score. Secondary end points were: 1-year efficacy, GES evolution, adverse events, and quality of life.

RESULTS

40 patients (22 women; mean age 48.1 [SD 17.4]), with mean symptom duration of 5.8 (SD 5.7) years, were randomized. Etiologies included idiopathic (n=18), diabetes (n=11), postoperative (n=6), and mixed (n=4). G-POEM showed a higher 3-month clinical success than BTI (65% vs. 40%, respectively; P=0.10), along with non-significantly higher 1-year clinical success (60% vs. 40%, respectively) on intention-to-treat analysis. The GCSI decreased in both groups at 3 months and 1 year. Only three minor adverse events occurred in the G-POEM group. The GES improvement rate was 72% in the G-POEM group versus 50% in the BTI group (non-significant).

CONCLUSION

G-POEM seems to have a higher clinically relevant success rate than BTI, but this was not statistically demonstrated. This study confirms the interest in treatments targeting the pylorus, either mechanically or chemically, for managing refractory gastroparesis.

Acute gastric dilatation with segmented abdominal paresis as a rare manifestation of herpes zoster: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Herpes zoster is a common disease that can affect men and women at any age. Sensory neuropathy is the most common complication while motor neuropathy of the abdominal muscles is rare complication appearing in ~ 0.7% of patients. Furthermore, visceral nerve involvement causing gastroparesis is an extremely rare postherpetic complication. We present an extremely rare case of acute gastric dilatation with segmented abdominal paresis as a rare manifestation of herpes zoster infection.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 91-year-old Asian man was admitted to hospital with 2-day history of vomiting and left abdominal protrusion. He was previously treated for a rash on the left abdominal wall as herpes zoster infection with oral valaciclovir 2 weeks prior. On physical examination, characteristic herpes zoster rash scars and an ipsilateral abdominal bulge were observed on the left side. Computed tomography revealed no abdominal wall defect, mass, or stenosis. Remarkable distension of the stomach, asymmetrical left flank wall bulge, and a thinner abdominal wall on the left compared with the right side were shown. He was diagnosed as acute gastric dilatation owing to gastroparesis and segmental paresis of the abdominal musculature associated with herpes zoster infection. The patient showed significant improvement in symptoms and abdominal paresis within a month of conservative treatment, including nasogastric tube decompression and mosapride administration.

CONCLUSION

Acute gastric dilatation with abdominal paresis is an extremely rare complication of herpes zoster infection, and to date there have been no reports in the literature. It alerts us that, when examining patients with abdominal bulge, we should be conscious of this rare pathology for the optical diagnosis, avoiding unnecessary invasive examination or surgical exploration.

Prevalence and disease burden of gastroparesis in Asia

Gastroparesis is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by significant prolongation of gastric emptying time caused by impaired motility of the stomach. Its estimated prevalence is 24.2 per 100 000 people. However, the prevalence of gastroparesis in Asian countries is unknown due to a limited number of epidemiological studies and significant phenotypic variability of the Asian population in these studies. Analysis of previous research on gastroparesis and functional bowel disorders reveals the possibility of an increased prevalence among Asian individuals. A comparison of ethnic constituents between the recent United Kingdom gastroparesis study and its mother database has demonstrated a higher prevalence of gastroparesis among British Asian patients when compared with British Caucasian patients. An estimated gastroparesis prevalence in the Asian population can be calculated by identifying the individuals who are likely to demonstrate a delayed gastric emptying from all diagnosed functional dyspepsia patients. We suggest that gastroparesis tends to be underdiagnosed in Asians due to a lack of studies on gastroparesis in the Asian continent, a lack of knowledge among practitioners, and poor availability of scintigraphy testing as well as limited therapeutic options for this disease. Given the high probability of Asian predominance in gastroparesis and its disease impact on quality of life, epidemiological research focusing on the Asian population is required.

Utility of gastrostomy tube placement at the time of pancreaticoduodenectomy

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to investigate the utility of gastrostomy tube (G-tube) placement in reducing delayed gastric emptying (DGE) among patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients undergoing PD from 2015 to 2020 at our institution. Thirty-day patient outcomes including DGE, length of stay (LOS), reoperation rates, and morbidity were analyzed in patients with or without G-tube placement.

RESULTS

128 patients with resectable pancreatic head cancer (54 females, median age 68.50 [59.00-74.00]) underwent PD (66 had G-tube placement and 62 did not). There was no significant difference in the incidence of DGE (n = 17 vs. n = 17, p = 0.612), and LOS between the groups. Postoperative ileus (p = 0.007) was significantly lower while atrial fibrillation (p = 0.037) was higher among the G-tube group. Gastrostomy-related complications (p = 0.001) developed in ten patients: skin-related complications (n = 6), tube dislodgement (n = 3) and clogging (n = 1). Nine patients required reoperation during index admission (n = 4 vs. n = 5, p = 1.000). There was no difference in 30-day readmissions (n = 7 vs. n = 5, p = 0.471) and no difference in 30 or 90-day mortality.

CONCLUSION

Gastrostomy tube placement during index PD did not affect the incidence of DGE. However, patients experienced significant morbidities due to G-tube-related complications. Placement of gastrostomy tubes at the index PD offers no clinical benefits.

Hand-sewn gastrojejunal anastomosis reduces delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy: A single-center retrospective clinical study of 1,077 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

Hand-sewn anastomosis and stapled anastomosis are the 2 main types of gastrojejunal anastomotic methods in pancreaticoduodenectomy. There is ongoing debate regarding the most effective anastomotic method for reducing delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy. This study aims to identify factors that influence delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy and assess the impact of different anastomotic methods on delayed gastric emptying.

METHODS

The study included 1,077 patients who had undergone either hand-sewn anastomosis (n = 734) or stapled anastomosis (n = 343) during pancreaticoduodenectomy between December 2016 and November 2021 at our department. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data, and a 1:1 propensity score matching was performed to balance confounding variables.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, 320 patients were included in each group. Compared with the stapled anastomosis group, the hand-sewn anastomosis group had a significantly lower incidence of delayed gastric emptying (28 [8.8%] vs 55 [17.2%], P = .001) and upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding (6 [1.9%] vs 17 [5.3%], P = .02). Additionally, the hand-sewn anastomosis group had a significantly reduced postoperative length of stay and lower hospitalization expenses. However, the hand-sewn anastomosis group had a significantly longer operative time, which was consistent with the analysis before propensity score matching. Logistic regression analysis showed that stapled anastomosis, intra-abdominal infection, and clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula were independent prognostic factors for delayed gastric emptying.

CONCLUSION

Hand-sewn anastomosis was associated with a lower incidence rate of clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Stapled anastomosis, intra-abdominal infection, and clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula could increase the incidence of postoperative clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying. Hand-sewn anastomosis should be considered by surgeons to reduce the occurrence of postoperative delayed gastric emptying and improve patient outcomes.

The "double-fired" gastro-jejunostomy as a form of improved efficiency during Whipple procedure

BACKGROUND

Gastro-jejunostomy (GJ) after pylorus-resecting pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is most commonly performed in a hand-sewn fashion. Intestinal stapled anastomosis are reported to be as effective as hand-sewn in terms of patency and risk of leakage in other indications. However, the use of a stapled gastro-jejunostomy hasn't been fully assessed in PD. The aim of the present technical report is to evaluate functional outcomes of stapled GJ during PD, its associated effect on operative time and related complications.

METHODS

The institutional database for pancreatic duct adenocarcinoma (PDAC) was retrospectically reviewed. Pylorus resecting open PD without vascular or multivisceral resections were considered for the analysis. The incidence of clinically significant delayed gastric emptying (DGE from the International Stufy Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS) grade B and C), other complications, operative time and overall hospitalization were evaluated.

RESULTS

Over a 10-years study period, 1182 PD for adenocarcinoma were performed and recorded in the database. 243 open Whipple procedures with no vascular and with no associated multivisceral resections were available and constituted the study population. Hand-sewn (HS) anastomosis was performed in 175 (72 %), stapled anastomosis (St) in 68 (28 %). No significant differences in baseline characteristics were observed between the two groups, with the exception of a higher rate of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the HS group (74 % St vs. 86 % HS, p = 0.025). Intraoperatively, a significantly reduced median operative time in the St group was observed (248 min St vs. 370 mins HS, p < 0.001). Post-operatively, rates of clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying (7 % St vs. 14 % HS, p = 0.140), clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (10 % St, 15 % HS, p = 0.300), median length of stay (7 days for each group, p = 0.289), post-pancreatectomy hemorrhage (4.4 % St vs. 6.3 % HS, p = 0.415) and complication rate (22 % St vs. 34 % HS, p = 0.064) were similar between groups. However, readmission rates were significantly lower after St GJ (13.2 % St vs 29.7 % HS, p = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that a stapled GJ anastomosis during a standard Whipple procedure is non-inferior to a hand-sewn GJ, with a comparable rate of DGE and no increase of gastrointestinal related long term complications. Further, a stapled GJ anastomosis might be associated with reduced operative times.

Electroacupuncture promotes gastrointestinal function recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy : a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To explore the clinical effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on promoting gastrointestinal function recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy were randomly divided into an EA group (40 cases, 1 case was eliminated), a placebo EA (PEA) group (40 cases, 1 case dropped out) and a conventional treatment group (40 cases, 1 case dropped out). The patients in the conventional treatment group received perioperative routine treatment. On the basis of routine treatment, patients in the EA group and the PEA group were given electroacupuncture or placebo electroacupuncture stimulation at 24,48 and 72 h after anesthesia recovery. Bilateral Neiguan (PC 6), Zusanli (ST 36) and Shangjuxu (ST 37) were selected, and the electrodes of SDV-Z electroacupuncture instrument were connected to Zusanli (ST 36) and Shangjuxu (ST 37) on the same side respectively. Continuous wave was selected, the frequency was 5 Hz, and the needles were retained for 30 min each time. The postoperative gastrointestinal-2 ( GI-2 ) time, the incidence of grade A/B delayed gastric emptying were compared among the three groups, and the safety of acupuncture was evaluated.

RESULTS

The GI-2 time of the EA group was significantly shorter than that of the PEA group and the conventional treatment group (P<0.05). The incidence of grade A and grade B of delayed gastric emptying in the EA group was lower than that in the PEA group and the conventional treatment group (P<0.05). No acupuncture-related adverse reactions occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

EA can promote the recovery of gastrointestinal function in patients undergoing laparoscopic gastrectomy, and the treatment plan is safe, which is worthy of promotion and application into the enhanced recovery surgery program.

Gastric volumetry for the assessment of fundic compliance and visceral hypersensitivity in patients with gastroparesis: a retrospective comparative study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The evaluation of visceral hypersensitivity and gastric accommodation in patients with gastroparesis (GP) is difficult. CT-scan gastric volumetry allows to test the distension of different regions of the stomach. We aimed to study gastric volumes and patient's sensitivity to gastric distension between in patients with GP compared to patients with GERD.

METHOD

Retrospective study including patients who had CT-scan volumetry for GP or GERD. Two CT-scan series were made after gastric distension: left lateral decubitus 30° (LLD30) for antrum and right lateral decubitus (RLD) for body. Pain and discomfort were assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS). Gastric volumes were measured for LLD30 and RLD.

RESULTS

13 patients (7 GP and 6 GERD) were included. Mean age was 35.6+/-7.3 years. Median gastric volume in the RLD was lower in GP vs GERD (927+/-208 ml vs. 1115+/-163 ml; p = 0.046) while it was similar for LLD30 (1053+/-228 ml vs. 1054+/-193 ml; p = 0.603). GP patients had significantly more pain and discomfort during the procedure: pain VAS for GP was 6[0-9] versus 0[0-2] for GERD, p = 0.004, discomfort VAS for GP was 7[4-10] versus 4[0-5] for GERD, p = 0.007. 66.7% of GERD patients felt no pain vs. 14.3% in GP, p = 0.053.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study suggests that GP could be associated with a reduced gastric volume compared to GERD in RLD after gaseous distension. In contrast, patient self-assessment of pain related to gastric distension was greater int GP patients. A lack of fundus accommodation and visceral hypersensitivity could explain some mechanisms in the genesis of GP symptoms.

A gluco-mindful approach to diabetic gastroparesis

Diabetes gastroparesis is a common manifestation of autonomic neuropathy in persons with long-standing, uncontrolled diabetes. Most discussion about its management revolves around the mitigation of symptoms. Here, we share tips on choosing the right glucose-lowering medication, based upon predominant symptomatology of gastroparesis. We highlight about insulin preparations, and their timing of administration, can be tailored according to need. We also emphasize the need to choose oral glucose lowering drugs with care.

Gastrointestinal complications in pediatric lung transplant recipients: Incidence, risk factors, and effects on patient outcomes

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal (GI) complications in lung transplant recipients can occur any time during the post-operative period, leading to prolonged morbidity and mortality. Despite the negative association between GI complications and patient outcomes, little is known about their incidence and risk factors for their development in pediatric lung transplant recipients.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review at one pediatric tertiary center to describe the frequency of GI complications in lung transplant recipients. We identified potential risk factors for the diagnosis of gastroparesis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and aspiration in the post-transplant period. Lastly, we investigated the association of these complications with mortality and graft survival.

RESULTS

84.3% of lung transplant recipients experienced at least one GI complication in the post-transplant period. Gastroparesis (52.9%), GERD (41.2%), and oropharyngeal dysphagia/laryngeal penetration (33.3%) were the most common complications diagnosed. Post-operative opioid exposure was a risk factor for gastroparesis, with the odds increasing 3.0% each day a patient was prescribed opioids (p = .021). The risk of death or retransplant in individuals who experienced gastroparesis was 2.7 times higher than those not diagnosed with gastroparesis (p = .027).

CONCLUSION

Exposure to opioids in the post-operative period is a risk factor for gastroparesis and a prolonged hospitalization placed patients at risk for aspiration. Gastroparesis was associated with increased patient mortality and graft failure, while aspiration and GERD had no effect on long term outcomes. Future prospective studies investigating the relationship between opioid use and the development of a gastroparesis are necessary to improve patient outcomes.

Gastroparesis might not be uncommon in patients with diabetes mellitus in a real-world clinical setting: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the frequency of diabetic gastroparesis and associated risk factors in a real-world clinical setting.

METHODS

This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients who underwent assessments of solid gastric emptying time (GET) by technetium-99 m scintigraphy between May 2019 and December 2020. We categorized patients into three groups according to gastric retention of technetium-99 m: rapid (< 65% at 1 h or < 20% at 2 h), normal (≤60% at 2 h and/or ≤ 10% at 4 h), and delayed (> 60% at 2 h and/or > 10% at 4 h).

RESULTS

Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) were more likely to show abnormal GET than those without DM (119 [70.8%] vs. 16 [44.4%]). The mean glycated A1c was 10.3% in DM patients. DM patients with normal GET were significantly younger (57.2 years, P = 0.044) than those with delayed (65.0 years) or rapid GET (60.2 years). Fasting glucose levels were the lowest in the normal GET group and the highest in the rapid GET group (delayed: 176.3 mg/dL, normal: 151.2 mg/dL, rapid: 181.0 mg/dL, P = 0.030). However, glycated A1c was not significantly different among the delayed, normal, and rapid GET groups in patients with DM. Patients with delayed and rapid GET showed a higher frequency of retinopathy (6.0 vs. 15.5%, P = 0.001) and peripheral neuropathy (11.3 vs. 24.4%, P = 0.001) than those with normal GET. In the multinomial logistic regression analysis, retinopathy demonstrated a positive association with delayed GET, while nephropathy showed a significant negative correlation.

CONCLUSION

DM gastroparesis in the clinical setting was not uncommon. Abnormal GET, including delayed and rapid GET, was associated with DM retinopathy or peripheral neuropathy.

Early oral feeding versus nasojejunal early enteral nutrition in patients following pancreaticoduodenectomy: a propensity score-weighted analysis of 428 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

Notwithstanding that significant medical progress has been achieved in recent years, the optimal nutritional support method following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) remains uncertain. This study compared the safety and feasibility of early oral feeding (EOF) with nasojejunal early enteral nutrition (NJEEN) after PD.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 428 consecutive patients who underwent PD between August 2018 and December 2020. During the first study phase, the routine postoperative feeding strategy was NJEEN, later replaced by EOF during the second study phase. The primary outcome was the incidence of delayed gastric emptying (DGE) following PD. Propensity score weighting was used to control for confounding factors.

RESULTS

Four hundred forty patients underwent PD during the overall study period, with 438 patients aged 18 years and older. Ten patients experienced accidental tube dislodgement or migration and were excluded from the study based on the exclusion criteria. Finally, 211 patients and 217 patients underwent EOF and NJEEN, respectively. After propensity score weighting, it was observed that patients who underwent postoperative EOF experienced a significantly lower DGE (B/C) rate compared to those who underwent postoperative NJEEN [7.38% (31/424) vs. 14.97% (62/413), P =0.0005]. Subgroup analyses according to the presence of soft pancreatic texture yielded consistent results. The EOF group exhibited lower DGE grade, DGE (B/C) rate [5.90% (11/194) vs. 22.07% (43/193), P <0.0001], postoperative gastrointestinal endoscopic intervention rate, and Clavien-Dindo Grade III or higher rate.

CONCLUSIONS

EOF is superior to NJEEN in reducing the incidence of grade B/C DGE after PD. The EOF procedure is safe and feasible and should be recommended as the optimal postoperative feeding method following PD.

Alpinia officinarum Hance extract ameliorates diabetic gastroparesis by regulating SCF/c-kit signaling pathway and rebalancing gut microbiota

Diabetic gastroparesis (DGP) is a common complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Alpinia officinarum Hance (AOH) is one of the most commonly used both as a food and folk medicines, which is rich in diarylheptanoids and flavonoids. The gastroprotection and hypoglycemic effect make AOH has great potential in developing of anti-DGP complementary medicine. However, the molecular mechanisms of AOH that act against DGP are yet to be elucidated. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects, the potential molecular mechanism, and the changes of gut microbiota of AOH in DGP. The 5 components of the AOH were analyzed, and the potential signaling pathway of AOH improving DGP was predicted by molecular docking. Subsequently, DGP rat model was constructed using high-fat-irregular-diet, AOH intervention significantly reduced blood glucose levels, increased gastrointestinal propulsion rate, and improved gastric histological morphology in DGP rats. Meanwhile, AOH has been shown to regulate the SCF/c-kit signaling pathway and rebalance the gut microbiota, which may be closely related to its role in improving DGP. Taken together, AOH may play a protective role on DGP through multiple mechanisms, which might pave the road for development and utilization of AOH.

Role of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (GPOEM) in chronic gastroparesis management after pancreas transplantation

Gastroparesis is a common complaint among patients with diabetes. Symptoms tend to improve following successful pancreas transplantation (PTx), but persist despite euglycemia in a subset of patients. We aimed to assess the benefit of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) in persistent gastroparesis following PTx. This was a single center retrospective review of all patients who underwent G-POEM for persistent gastroparesis following PTx. Patient demographics, pre and post procedure perception of symptom severity according to the patient assessment of upper gastrointestinal symptoms severity index (PAGI-SYM), gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI) score, and 36-item short form survey (SF36) score along with gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) were analyzed. Seven PTx recipients underwent G-POEM for persistent gastroparesis symptoms. The majority were female. All reported nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, bloating, and post prandial fullness prior to G-POEM. The post procedure survey scores improved in all patients although this was not significant. The improvement in gastric emptying on GES was statistically significant. G-POEM is a relatively new treatment option for gastroparesis. While it requires specialized proceduralist and training, we have documented improvement in the management of symptoms. With increasing experience, we anticipate more significant benefit in post PTx patients with persistent symptoms of gastroparesis undergoing G-POEM.

Predictive Factors for Delayed Gastric Emptying After Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Swedish National Registry-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a common complication after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). DGE causes prolonged hospital stay and a decrease in quality of life. This study analyzes predictive factors for development of DGE after PD, also in the absence of surgical complications.

METHOD

Data from the Swedish National Pancreatic Cancer Registry for patients undergoing standard and pylorus preserving open PD from January 2010 until June 30, 2018, were collected. Data were analyzed in two groups, no DGE and DGE. A subgroup of patients with DGE but without surgical complications was compared to patients without DGE or any other surgical complication.

RESULTS

In total, 2503 patients were included, of which 470 (19%) had DGE. In the DGE group, 238 had other coexisting surgical complications and 232 had not. Postoperative pancreatic fistula (OR = 4.22, p < 0.001), surgical infection (OR = 1.44, p = 0.013), heart disease (OR = 1.32, p = 0.023) and medical complications (OR = 1.35, p = 0.025) increased the risk for DGE. A standard PD compared with pylorus preserving resection (OR = 1.69, p = 0.001) and a reconstruction with a pancreaticojejunostomy compared with a pancreaticogastrostomy (OR = 1.83, p < 0.001) increased the risk. For patients without surgical complications, a standard PD and reconstruction with pancreaticojejunostomy still increased the risk for DGE.

CONCLUSION

DGE is more common after standard PD compared to pylorus preserving PD and after reconstruction with PJ compared to PG in this national cohort, both in the presence of other surgical complications as well as in the absence of other complications.

Surgical Treatment of Gastroparesis

Gastroparesis and intestinal dysmotility are life-altering diagnoses with no cure. Lifestyle changes, pharmacological, and surgical interventions are combined in a multidisciplinary fashion to improve the quality of life in this patient population. Starting with lifestyle changes, adjustments are made to the types and amounts of food consumed, medical conditions are optimized, and the use of narcotic pain medications as well as smoking is discontinued. For many, these changes are not enough, and antiemetics and promotility agents are used to control symptoms. Finally, when these measures fail, patients turn to surgery, which can include surgical alterations to the stomach, implantation of a gastric stimulator, placement of drainage tubes, and possibly even the complete removal of different organs, including the stomach or gallbladder. In our clinic, patients not only see a surgeon but also a gastroenterologist, dietitian, and psychologist. We strongly believe in a multidisciplinary approach to this condition. The goal is to provide patients with hope and help them live fuller and happier lives. The study primarily addresses technical considerations and the surgical approach for patients diagnosed with gastroparesis. It outlines the entire process, starting from preparations before the surgery, encompassing the preoperative work-up, and detailing the steps involved in the surgical procedure. One of the key diagnostic challenges faced in treating gastroparesis patients is determining the underlying cause of the condition, as this information is critical for selecting the appropriate surgical intervention. Once the patient's condition has been categorized based on the cause, the medical team engages in a discussion with the patient regarding potential treatment options, which may include endoscopic procedures, minimally invasive techniques, or open surgery.

Treatment of postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome with Fu's subcutaneous needling: A case report

Postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome is a syndrome of significantly delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction after surgery. We presented a case of 69-year-old male patient who suffered from progressive nausea, vomiting and stomach fullness, with a bloating abdomen ten days after laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Conventional treatments such as gastrointestinal decompression, gastric acid suppression therapy and intravenous nutritional support were administrated, but there were no obvious improvements in nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension of this patient. Fu's subcutaneous needling was performed once a day for three days, for a total of three treatments. After three days of Fu's subcutaneous needling intervention, he was free of symptoms of nausea, vomiting and stomach fullness. His gastric drainage volume reduced from 1000 ml per day to 10 ml per day. Upper gastrointestinal angiography showed normal peristalsis of remnant stomach. In this case report, Fu's subcutaneous needling showed a potential role of gastrointestinal motility enhancement and gastric drainage volume decrement, which provided a safe and convenient method in palliative care of postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome.

Relationships among intragastric meal distribution during gastric emptying scintigraphy, water consumption during water load satiety testing, and symptoms of gastroparesis

Gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) measures total gastric retention after a solid meal and can assess intragastric meal distribution (IMD). Water load satiety test (WLST) measures gastric capacity. Both IMD immediately after meal ingestion [ratio of proximal gastric counts after meal ingestion to total gastric counts at time 0 (IMD0)] and WLST (volume of water ingested over 5 min) are indirect measures of gastric accommodation. In this study, IMD0 and WLST were compared with each other and to symptoms of gastroparesis to gauge their clinical utility for assessing patients with symptoms of gastroparesis. Patients with symptoms of gastroparesis underwent GES to obtain gastric retention and IMD0, WLST, and filled out patient assessment of upper GI symptoms. A total of 234 patients with symptoms of gastroparesis were assessed (86 patients with diabetes, 130 idiopathic, 18 postfundoplication) and 175 (75%) delayed gastric emptying. Low IMD0 <0.568 suggesting initial rapid transit to the distal stomach was present in 8% and correlated with lower gastric retention, less heartburn, and lower volumes consumed during WLST. Low WLST volume (<238 mL) was present in 20% and associated with increased severity of early satiety, postprandial fullness, loss of appetite, and nausea. Low IMD0 is associated with less gastric retention and less heartburn. Volume of water consumed during WLST, while associated with IMD0, has associations with early satiety, postprandial fullness, loss of appetite, and nausea. Thus, IMD0 and WLST appear to overlap somewhat in their assessment of gastric physiology in adults with symptoms of gastroparesis but relate to different dyspeptic symptoms.NEW & NOTEWORTHY IMD0 and WLST were assessed for their clinical utility in assessing patients with symptoms of gastroparesis. Low IMD0 is associated with less gastric retention and less heartburn. Volume of water consumed during WLST, while associated with IMD0, has associations with early satiety, postprandial fullness, loss of appetite, and nausea. IMD0 and WLST appear to overlap somewhat in their assessment of gastric physiology in adults with symptoms of gastroparesis but relate to different dyspeptic symptoms.

Effect of intraoperative botulinum toxin injection on delayed gastric emptying and need for endoscopic pyloric intervention following esophagectomy: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression analysis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of intraoperative botulinum toxin (BT) injection on delayed gastric emptying (DGE) and need for endoscopic pyloric intervention (NEPI) following esophagectomy. In compliance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses statement standards, a systematic review of studies reporting the outcomes of intraoperative BT injection in patients undergoing esophagectomy for esophageal cancer was conducted. Proportion meta-analysis model was constructed to quantify the risk of the outcomes and direct comparison meta-analysis model was constructed to compare the outcomes between BT injection and no BT injection or surgical pyloroplasty. Meta-regression was modeled to evaluate the effect of variations in different covariates among the individual studies on overall summary proportions. Nine studies enrolling 1070 patients were included. Pooled analyses showed that the risks of DGE and NEPI following intraoperative BT injection were 13.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.9-18.6%) and 15.2% (95% CI: 7.9-22.5%), respectively. There was no difference between BT injection and no BT injection in terms of DGE (odds ratio [OR]: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.20-1.61, P = 0.29) and NEPI (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 0.42-7.12, P = 0.45). Moreover, BT injection was comparable to pyloroplasty in terms of DGE (OR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.35-2.08, P = 0.73) and NEPI (OR: 8.20, 95% CI: 0.63-105.90, P = 0.11). Meta-regression suggested that male gender was negatively associated with the risk of DGE (coefficient: -0.007, P = 0.003). In conclusion, level 2 evidence suggests that intraoperative BT injection may not improve the risk of DGE and NEPI in patients undergoing esophagectomy. The risk of DGE seems to be higher in females and in early postoperative period. High quality randomized controlled trials with robust statistical power are required for definite conclusions. The results of the current study can be used for hypothesis synthesis and power analysis in future prospective trials.

Gastric electrical stimulation is safe during pregnancy and delivery: Results from a French cohort

BACKGROUND

Gastric electrical stimulation (GES) is an effective therapy in medically refractory chronic nausea and vomiting. GES is assumed to be a contraindication for pregnancy. We examined the safety of GES during pregnancy and its clinical impact on vomiting symptoms.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed in two tertiary centers including all female patients of childbearing age implanted with GES. Patients without pregnancy while on GES were asked about their desire and concerns about pregnancy. Patients who were pregnant while on GES therapy were interviewed about the course of the pregnancy and labor, as well as the health of the children.

KEY RESULTS

Among 91 patients implanted at childbearing age, 54 patients without pregnancy answered the questionnaire. Nine patients (16.7%) reported a desire for pregnancy and five patients (7.4%) reported worries about the safety of GES during pregnancy. Sixteen pregnancies were reported in 10 patients. All pregnancies ended in a live birth with premature birth in 12 pregnancies (75.0%). No health concern was currently noted in these children. No severe GES-related complications occurred during pregnancy with only pain at the implantation site reported during 3 pregnancies (18.8%). The severity and frequency of nausea and vomiting significantly increased during the first trimester (p = 0.04 and p = 0.005, respectively) and decreased after the delivery, becoming lower than before the pregnancy (p = 0.044 and p = 0.011, respectively).

CONCLUSION & INFERENCES

Patients are concerned regarding pregnancy while being treated with GES. No serious maternal or fetal complications related to GES were noted in our cohort.

Study of risk factors for delayed gastric emptying after partial pancretoduodenectomy

INTRODUCTION

Delayed gastric emptying is one of the most frequent complications after pancreatoduodenectomy.

METHODS

We performed an analysis of risk factors for delayed gastric emptying on a prospective database of 390 patients operated on between 2013 and 2021. A comparative retrospective study was carried out between patients with and without delayed gastric emptying and subsequently a study of risk factors for delayed gastric emptying using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models.

RESULTS

The incidence of delayed gastric emptying in the overall series was 28%. The morbidity of the group was 63%, and postoperative mortality was 3.1%. Focusing on delayed gastric emptying, the median age (73 years vs 68 years, P < 0.001) and preoperative creatinine (75 vs 65.5, P < 0.001) were higher in the group with this complication. The study of risk factors showed that age over 60 years (P = 0.002) and pancreatic fistula (P < 0.001) were risk factors for delayed gastric emptying.

CONCLUSION

The presence of pancreatic fistula is confirmed as a risk factor for slow gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy. In addition, age over 60 years is shown to be a risk factor for slow gastric emptying.

Atypical Causes of Gastroparesis: Prevalence, Gastric Emptying, and Clinical Features

BACKGROUND

Gastroparesis is commonly attributed to idiopathic or diabetic causes.

GOALS

We aimed to describe atypical causes of gastroparesis and examine the clinical features and severity of delayed gastric emptying compared with idiopathic and diabetic causes.

STUDY

Between 2018 and 2021, gastroparesis patients being evaluated at our tertiary care center completed a 4-hour gastric emptying scintigraphy and questionnaires assessing for gastrointestinal disorders, including patient assessment of upper gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients were divided into groups relating to gastroparesis cause: diabetic, postsurgical (PSGp), connective tissue (CTGp), neurological and idiopathic.

RESULTS

Two hundred fifty-six patients with delayed emptying on gastric emptying scintigraphy completed the questionnaires. Gastroparesis causes included 149 (58.2%) idiopathic, 60 (23.4%) diabetic, 29 (11.3%) postsurgical, 13 (5.1%) connective tissue, and 5 (2.0%) neurological. In each group, most patients were female and White. Gastric retention at 4 hours was significantly greater in patients with diabetic (39.3±25.7% P <0.001), postsurgical (41.3±24.0% P =0.002), and connective tissue gastroparesis (37.8±20.0% P =0.049) compared with patients with idiopathic gastroparesis (25.5±17.6%). In PSGp, diabetic and idiopathic causes, the main symptoms were early satiety and postprandial fullness, whereas in CTGp, bloating and abdominal distension were the predominant symptoms. Vomiting severity was significantly greater in patients with diabetes compared with idiopathic gastroparesis (2.9±1.9 vs. 2.1±1.8 P =0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Atypical causes contributed to gastroparesis in 47 of 256 (18.4%) patients with delayed gastric emptying. Gastric emptying was significantly more delayed in PSGp and CTGp patients. PSGp patients mainly experienced stomach fullness and early satiety, whereas CTGp patients had predominantly bloating and distension.

[Risk factors for delayed gastric emptying after laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy: a single-center experience of 1 000 cases]

Objective: To explore the causes and summarize the treatment experience for clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying(DGE) after laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy(LPD). Methods: The clinical data of 1 000 patients who underwent LPD in the Department of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery,Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University between March 2017 and September 2022 was retrospectively collected. There were 640 males and 360 females,with an age of (60.1±11.4)years(range: 13 to 93 years),and 590 patients were older than 60 years. Depending on the severity of DGE,patients were divided into a clinically relevant DGE group and a 0/A grade DGE group. The comparison between the two groups was performed by the χ2 test,Fisher's exact probability method,t test or the rank sum test,and the effects of various treatment strategies for clinically relevant DGE were evaluated. Results: LPD was conducted successfully in all 1 000 patients,with a surgical time of (344.8±103.6)minutes(range:160 to 450 minutes) and intraoperative blood loss (M(IQR)) of 100 (150) ml(range:50 to 1 000 ml). A total of 74 patients(7.4%) developed clinically relevant DGE. Compared to those in the 0/A grade DGE group,patients in the clinically relevant DGE group had a higher preoperative body mass index of ((24.9±3.5)kg/m2 vs. (23.9±3.3)kg/m2,t=-2.419,P=0.016),more postoperative bile leakage(51.4%(38/74) vs. 10.8%(100/926)),pancreatic fistula(59.5%(44/74) vs. 22.9%(212/926)),abdominal infection(74.3%(55/74) vs.14.6%(135/926)),and abdominal bleeding(43.2%(32/74) vs. 11.3%(105/926))(all P<0.05). Among these patients,10 cases(13.5%) received enteral nutrition treatment,22 cases(29.7%) received parenteral nutrition treatment,and 42 cases(56.8%) received a combination of enteral and parenteral nutrition treatment. The time for patients to return to a normal diet was 21(14)days (range: 8 to 85 days). Compared to those who received only enteral(23.5(27.0)days) or parenteral nutrition treatment(15.5(11.0)days),patients who received a combination of enteral and parenteral nutrition treatment(25.5(31.0)days) had a longer time to return to a normal diet (Z=20.019,P<0.01). Among the 60 patients who developed secondary DGE,48 cases(80.0%) received ultrasound-guided puncture and drainage treatment,while 12 cases(20.0%) only received anti-infection treatment. The patients in the non-puncture drainage group had a longer time to return to a normal diet than those in the puncture drainage group (26.5(12.5)days vs. 20.0(11.0)days, Z=-2.369,P=0.018). Conclusions: Patients with clinically relevant DGE after LPD had a higher proportion of postoperative complications such as pancreatic fistula,biliary fistula and abdominal infection. A combination of enteral and parenteral nutrition treatment is needed for patients with a long-term course of DGE."Smooth" drainage and ani-infectious therapy could contribute to the recovery of DGE.

Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy for management of refractory gastroparesis in patients with gastric neurostimulator devices: a multicenter retrospective case control study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Gastric neurostimulation (GNS) and gastric peroral myotomy (G-POEM), therapies for refractory gastroparesis, are associated with suboptimal outcomes. We studied the role of G-POEM as a salvage therapy in patients with refractory symptoms after GNS implantation.

METHODS

This was a multicenter, retrospective, matched case-control study. Consecutive patients with a GNS device and who underwent G-POEM as a salvage therapy for clinical failure (cases) and patients without GNS implantation and who underwent G-POEM for refractory gastroparesis (control) between October 2018 and August 2021 were included. The primary outcome was clinical success after G-POEM.

RESULTS

A total of 123 patients (mean age 45.7 ± 14.7 years; 88 female subjects [72%]) underwent G-POEM therapy during the study: 41 cases and 82 controls. Clinical success was achieved in 66% in the case group and 65% in the control group (P = .311), during a median total clinical follow-up time of 11.8 (interquartile range, 2.4-6.3) months. In the case group, the mean Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index score decreased from 2.8 ± 1.8 to 1.5 ± 1.9 (P = .024), and gastric retention at 4 hours improved from 45% ± 25.8% to 16.6% ± 13.1% (P = .06). The mean delta improvement in the subscales of nausea/vomiting (1.3 ± .6 vs .9 ± 1.1, P = .044) and bloating (1.6 ± 1.3 vs 1.2 ± 1.4, P = .041) were significantly higher in cases than in controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with refractory symptoms after GNS, G-POEM can be a reasonable salvage therapy to provide further symptomatic relief with evidence of a potential additive effect of both G-POEM and GNS.

Efficacy and safety of gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (GPOEM) in lung transplant patients with refractory gastroparesis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Post-lung transplant gastroparesis is a frequent debilitating complication of lung transplant recipients, as it can increase the risk for gastro-esophageal reflux disease and subsequent graft dysfunction. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of GPOEM in lung transplant patients with refractory gastroparesis.

METHODS

The present systematic review and meta-analysis wer performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We selected studies that analyzed the gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI) before and after the procedure to verify the efficacy of GPOEM. Random-effects model was used and the analysis was performed with STATA 17.

RESULTS

Four observational studies (one conference abstract) with 104 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Prior treatments for gastroparesis included prokinetic agents and botulinum toxin in 78% (78/104) and 66.7% (66/99), respectively. Pooled estimate for clinical efficacy of GPOEM was 83% (95% CI 76%-90%). The pooled mean reduction in GCSI following the procedure was - 2.01 (- 2.35, - 1.65, p = 0.014). Three studies reported statistically significant improvement of gastro-esophageal retention or emptying in the post-GPOEM period. 30-day post-operative complications included minor or major bleeding (11.6%), severe reflux (1.2%), and pyloric stenosis (1.2%) requiring re-intervention. 90-day all-cause mortality was 2.6% with one patient dying from severe allograft rejection.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that GPOEM is an effective and safe strategy for lung transplant patients with refractory gastroparesis and should be considered as a therapeutic strategy in this population. Larger multicenter trials are needed in the future to further evaluate the effect of GPOEM on allograft function and rates of rejection.

Gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy versus pyloric injection of botulinum toxin for the treatment of gastroparesis: our institutional experience and a systematic review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Gastric Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (GPOEM) has been developed as an effective treatment option for patients with medically refractory gastroparesis. Other endoscopic options, such as pyloric injection of botulinum toxin (Botox), is often performed with limited efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate GPOEM for the treatment of gastroparesis and compare its efficacy to Botox injection results reported in the literature.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted to identify all patients who underwent a GPOEM for the treatment of gastroparesis between September 2018 and June 2022. Changes in Gastric Emptying Scintigraphy (GES) studies and Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom (GCSI) scores from the preoperative to postoperative period were analyzed. In addition, a systematic review was conducted to identify all publications reporting the outcomes of Botox injections for the treatment of gastroparesis.

RESULTS

A total of 65 patients (51 female, 14 male) underwent a GPOEM during the study period. Twenty-eight patients (22 female, 6 male) had both preoperative and postoperative GES studies in addition to GCSI scores. The etiologies of gastroparesis were diabetic (n = 4), idiopathic (n = 18), and postsurgical (n = 6). Fifty percent of these patients had undergone previous failed interventions including Botox injections (n = 6), gastric stimulator placement (n = 2), and endoscopic pyloric dilation (n = 6). Outcomes showed a significant decrease in GES percentages (mean difference = - 23.5%, p < 0.001) and GCSI scores (mean difference = - 9.6, p = 0.02) postoperatively. In the systematic review for Botox, transient mean improvements in postoperative GES percentages and GCSI scores were reported at 10.1% and 4.0, respectively.

CONCLUSION

GPOEM leads to significant improvement in GES percentages and GCSI scores postoperatively and is superior to Botox injection results reported in the literature.

Underutilisation of gastric emptying studies and underrecognition of gastroparesis in people with diabetes treated in a hospital setting

Delayed gastric emptying occurs in up to 30% of patients with long-standing diabetes and causes significant morbidity. We performed a retrospective cohort study of 341 patients who had participated in a gastric emptying study from 2018 to 2021 in a large teaching hospital. Given the expected prevalence of gastroparesis in people with diabetes, there were fewer studies than anticipated, which could lead to gastroparesis underrecognition.

Machine learning versus logistic regression for the prediction of complications after pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Machine learning is increasingly advocated to develop prediction models for postoperative complications. It is, however, unclear if machine learning is superior to logistic regression when using structured clinical data. Postoperative pancreatic fistula and delayed gastric emptying are the two most common complications with the biggest impact on patient condition and length of hospital stay after pancreatoduodenectomy. This study aimed to compare the performance of machine learning and logistic regression in predicting pancreatic fistula and delayed gastric emptying after pancreatoduodenectomy.

METHODS

This retrospective observational study used nationwide data from 16 centers in the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Audit between January 2014 and January 2021. The area under the curve of a machine learning and logistic regression model for clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula and delayed gastric emptying were compared.

RESULTS

Overall, 799 (16.3%) patients developed a postoperative pancreatic fistula, and 943 developed (19.2%) delayed gastric emptying. For postoperative pancreatic fistula, the area under the curve of the machine learning model was 0.74, and the area under the curve of the logistic regression model was 0.73. For delayed gastric emptying, the area under the curve of the machine learning model and logistic regression was 0.59.

CONCLUSION

Machine learning did not outperform logistic regression modeling in predicting postoperative complications after pancreatoduodenectomy.

The impact of delayed gastric emptying as measured by gastric emptying scintigraphy on the outcome of magnetic sphincter augmentation

INTRODUCTION

The impact of delayed gastric emptying (DGE) on the outcome of anti-reflux surgery (ARS) is controversial. There is concern that poor gastric emptying diminishes outcomes. Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) may have a comparatively mild impact on gastric physiology, but the relationship between DGE and MSA outcomes is unknown. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between objective DGE and MSA outcomes over time.

METHODS

Patients who completed gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) prior to MSA between 2013 and 2021 were included. DGE was defined as a 4 h retention > 10% or half emptying time > 90 min on GES. Outcomes were compared between DGE and normal gastric emptying (NGE) groups at 6 months, 1 and 2 years. Sub-analysis of patients with severe (> 35%) DGE and correlation analysis between 4-h retention and symptom and acid-normalization were performed.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 26 (19.8%) patients with DGE and 105 with NGE. DGE was associated with more 90-days readmissions (18.5 vs 2.9%, p = 0.009). At 6 months patients with DGE had higher median (IQR) GERD-HRQL total [17.0(10-29) vs 5.5(3-16), p = 0.0013], heartburn [1(1-3) vs 0(0-1), p = 0.0010) and gas-bloat [4(2-5) vs 2(1-3), p = 0.033] scores. Outcomes at 1 and 2 years follow-up were comparable (p > 0.05). From 6 months to 1-year the gas-bloat score decreased from 4(2-5) to 3(1-3), p = 0.041. Total and heartburn scores decreased, but not significantly. Severe DGE (n = 4) patients had lower antiacid medication freedom at 6 months (75 vs 87%, p = 0.014) and 1-year (50 vs 92%, p = 0.046). There were non-significant trends for higher GERD-HRQL scores, dissatisfaction, and removal rates in severe DGE at 6 months and 1-year. There was a weak correlation between 4-h retention and 6-month GERD-HRQL total score [R = 0.253, 95%CI (0.09-0.41), p = 0.039], but not acid-normalization (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Outcomes after MSA are diminished early on in patients with mild-to-moderate DGE, but comparable by 1 year and durable at 2 years. Severe DGE outcomes may be suboptimal.

Prevalence of gastroparesis in diabetic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Although there was no significant heterogeneity in the meta-publication, sensitivity analyses revealed significant heterogeneity. Overall, the prevalence was higher in women (N = 6, R = 4.6%, 95% CI 3.1%, 6.0%, and I2 = 99.8%) than in men (N = 6, R = 3.4%, 95% CI 2.0%, 4.7%, and I2 = 99.6the %); prevalence of type 2 diabetes (N = 9, R = 12.5%, 95% CI 7.7%, 17.3%, and I2 = 95.4%) was higher than type 1 diabetes (N = 7, R = 8.3%, 95% CI 6.4%, 10.2%, and I2 = 93.6%); the prevalence of DGP was slightly lower in DM patients aged over 60 years (N = 6, R = 5.5%, 95% CI 3.3%, 7.7%, and I2 = 99.9%) compared to patients under 60 years of age (N = 12, R = 15.8%, 95% CI 11 15.8%, 95% CI 11.4%, 20.2%, and I2 = 88.3%). In conclusion, our findings indicate that the combined estimated prevalence of gastroparesis in diabetic patients is 9.3%. However, the sensitivity of the results is high, the robustness is low, and there are significant bias factors. The subgroup analysis revealed that the prevalence of DM-DGP is associated with factors such as gender, diabetes staging, age, and study method.

Risk stratification of clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) remains one of the major complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), with discrepant reports of its contributing factors. This study aimed to develop a nomogram to identify potential predictors and predict the probability of DGE after PD.

METHODS

This retrospective study enrolled 422 consecutive patients who underwent PD from January 2019 to December 2021 at our institution. The LASSO algorithm and multivariate logistic regression were performed to identify independent risk and protective factors associated with clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying (CR-DGE). A nomogram was established based on the selected variables. Then, the calibration curve, ROC curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curve (CIC) were applied to evaluate the predictive performance of our model. Finally, an independent cohort of 45 consecutive patients from January 2022 to March 2022 was enrolled to further validate the nomogram.

RESULTS

Among 422 patients, CR-DGE occurred in 94 patients (22.2%). A previous history of chronic gastropathy, intraoperative plasma transfusion ≥ 400 ml, end-to-side gastrointestinal anastomosis, intra-abdominal infection, incisional infection, and clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) were identified as risk predictors. Minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD) was demonstrated to be a protective predictor of CR-DGE. The areas under the curve (AUCs) were 0.768 (95% CI, 0.706-0.830) in the development cohort, 0.766 (95% CI, 0.671-0.861) in the validation cohort, and 0.787 (95% CI, 0.633-0.940) in the independent cohort. Then, we built a simplified scale based on our nomogram for risk stratification.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified seven predictors and constructed a validated nomogram that effectively predicted CR-DGE for patients who underwent PD.

From Classic Whipple to Pylorus Preserving Pancreaticoduodenectomy and Ultimately to Pylorus Resecting - Stomach Preserving Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Review

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is the procedure of choice for benign or malignant tumors of the periampullary region. The preservation of the pylorus has been established as the mostly utilized approach during pancreaticoduodenectomy among the majority of specialized, in the surgical treatment of pancreatic cancer, centers worldwide. The factors that influenced this predilection are the shorter operation times, the less intraoperative blood loss, the decreased technical difficulty, and the quite similar short- and long-term outcomes compared to the classic Whipple. However, there is a notable trend in the literature highlighting the increased incidence of delayed gastric emptying following pylorus preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy. Among other factors, pylorus dysfunction attributable to the surgical maneuvers has been implemented in the etiology of this complication. In an attempt to overcome this limitation of the pylorus preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy, pylorus resecting pancreaticoduodenectomy with the preservation of the stomach was proposed. In theory, pylorus resecting pancreaticoduodenectomy could maintain the advantages of organ sparing surgery, but at the same time guarantee a more seamless gastric emptying. Only three RCTs, to date, aimed to evaluate the approach with only one reporting results in favor of the pylorus resecting pancreaticoduodenectomy in regard to the incidence of delayed gastric emptying. Further well-designed prospective randomized studies are needed for an accurate assessment of the true role of each of these surgical alternatives on the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Diabetic gastroparesis: clinical features, diagnosis and management

Diabetic gastroparesis carries a heavy burden on people with diabetes and the healthcare system. It remains underdiagnosed and represents challenges to treat. This article reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of diabetic gastroparesis. The disorder is characterized by delayed gastric emptying without evidence of mechanical gastric outflow obstruction. It presents with upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, early satiety, postprandial fullness, upper abdominal discomfort and or bloating. As the prevalence of diabetes has been growing over the last few decades, we would expect an increased incidence of delayed gastric emptying in poorly controlled diabetes and perhaps in line with the increasing use of medications that act on the GI tract such as incretin-based therapy. The disease results from multiple reversible and irreversible mechanisms. Diagnosing diabetic gastroparesis requires careful history, examination and investigations to exclude other disorders that could mimic its clinical presentation. Treatment involves a wide variety of options starting with optimization of glycaemic control, stopping any offending medications and lifestyle modifications followed by the introduction of medical therapeutics such as prokinetics. Then, surgical interventions are considered in refractory cases.

Risk Factor Analysis of Gastroparesis Syndrome in 2652 Patients with Radical Distal Gastrectomy

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to investigate the risk factors of postoperative gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) in patients with gastric cancer who underwent radical distal gastrectomy.

METHODS

The clinical data of 2652 patients with gastric cancer who underwent radical distal gastrectomy in the past 10 years were retrospectively analyzed. Furthermore, the incidence of PGS was set as the dependent variable, and the risk factors for PGS were screened using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Risk factor analysis for the different digestive tract reconstruction methods was also performed.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis revealed that preoperative pyloric obstruction (p = 0.001), digestive tract reconstruction (p = 0.001), jejunum nutrition tube application (p = 0.001), intraperitoneal chemotherapy drug application (p = 0.002), age (≥ 66 years or < 66 years) (p = 0.042), operative time (≥ 184.5 min or < 184.5 min) (p = 0.049), and postoperative indwelling catheter time (≥ 4.5 days or < 4.5 days) (p = 0.045) were related to PGS. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that preoperative pyloric obstruction (odds ratio (OR) = 2.830, p = 0.004), application of a jejunum nutrition tube (OR = 3.309, p = 0.011), intraperitoneal chemotherapy (OR = 0.482, p = 0.010), and digestive tract reconstruction were independent risk factors for PGS.

CONCLUSION

This study identified risk factors associated with PGS, which could be further applied in clinical practice.

Gastroparesis and Gastroparesis Syndromes as Neuromuscular Disorders

Gastroparesis syndromes (GpS) are a spectrum of disorders presenting with characteristic symptoms increasingly recognized as being gastrointestinal (GI) neuromuscular disorders (NMDs). This review focuses on GpS as a manifestation of neurologic disorders of GI NMD. GpS can be associated with systemic abnormalities, including inflammatory, metabolic, and serologic disorders, as well as autoimmune antibodies via nerve and muscle targets in the GI tract, which can be treated with immunotherapy, such as intravenous immunoglobulin. GpS are associated with autonomic (ANS) and enteric (ENS) dysfunction. Disorders of ANS may interact with the ENS and are the subject of continued investigation. ENS disorders have been recognized for a century but have only recently begun to be fully quantified. Anatomic structural changes in the GI tract are increasingly recognized in GpS. Detailed descriptions of anatomic changes in GpS, and their correlation with physiologic findings, have opened a new era of investigation. The management of GpS, when viewed as GI NMD, has shifted the paradigms of both diagnosis and treatment. This article concludes with current approaches to GpS directed at underlying neuromuscular pathology.

Invasive acupuncture for gastroparesis after thoracic or abdominal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This meta-analysis aimed to systematically evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture in treating postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) after thoracic or abdominal surgery.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

Twelve databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Medline (Ovid) (from 1946), Web of Science, EBSCO, Scopus, Open Grey, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, Chinese Scientific Journals Database (VIP) and China Biology Medicine disc (CBM)) and three registration websites (WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), ClinicalTrials.gov, and Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR)) were searched from the inception to September 2022, and citations of the included literature were screened.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All randomised controlled trials addressing invasive acupuncture for PGS.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Key information on the included studies was extracted by two reviewers independently. Risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI was used for categorical data, and mean difference with 95% CI for continuous data. The quality of evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation. Outcomes were conducted with trial sequential analysis (TSA).

RESULTS

Fifteen studies with 759 patients met the inclusion criteria. Subgroup analyses revealed that compared with the drug group, the drug and acupuncture group had a greater positive effect on the total effective rate (TER) (nine trials, n=427; RR=1.20; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.32; P-heterogeneity=0.20, I2=28%, p=0.0004) and the recovery rate (RCR) (six trials, n = 294; RR = 1.61; 95% CI 1.30 to 1.98; P-heterogeneity=0.29, I2=19%, p<0.0001) of PGS after abdominal surgery. However, acupuncture showed no significant advantages in terms of the TER after thoracic surgery (one trial, p=0.13) or thoracic/abdominal surgery-related PGS (two trials, n = 115; RR=1.18; 95% CI 0.89 to 1.57; P-heterogeneity=0.08, I2=67%, p=0.24) and the RCR after thoracic/abdominal surgery (two trials, n=115; RR=1.40; 95% CI 0.97 to 2.01; P-heterogeneity=0.96, I2=0%, p=0.07). The quality of evidence for TER and RCR was moderate certainty. Only one study reported an acupuncture-related adverse event, in the form of mild local subcutaneous haemorrhage and pain that recovered spontaneously. TSA indicated that outcomes reached a necessary effect size except for clinical symptom score.

CONCLUSION

Based on subgroup analysis, compared with the drug treatment, acupuncture combined drug has significant advantages in the treatment of PGS associated with abdominal surgery, but not with thoracic surgery.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42022299189.

Postoperative Proton Pump Inhibitors are associated with a significantly higher rate of delayed gastric emptying after pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are effective in reducing marginal ulcers after pancreatoduodenectomy. However, their impact on perioperative complications has not been defined.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the effect of postoperative PPIs on 90-day perioperative outcomes in all patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy at our institution from April 2017 to December 2020.

RESULTS

284 patients were included; 206 (72.5%) received perioperative PPIs, 78 (27.5%) did not. The two cohorts were similar in demographics and operative variables. Postoperatively, the PPI cohort had significantly higher rates of overall complications (74.3% vs. 53.8%) and delayed gastric emptying (28.6% vs. 11.5%), p < 0.05. However, no differences in infectious complications, postoperative pancreatic fistula, or anastomotic leaks were seen. On multivariate analysis, PPI was independently associated with a higher risk of overall complications (OR 2.46, CI 1.33-4.54) and delayed gastric emptying (OR 2.73, CI 1.26-5.91), p = 0.011. Four patients developed marginal ulcers within 90-days postoperatively; all were in the group who received PPIs.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative proton pump inhibitor use was associated with a significantly higher rate of overall complications and delayed gastric emptying after pancreatoduodenectomy.

A prediction nomogram for postoperative gastroparesis syndrome in right colon cancer: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

To investigate the high-risk factors for postoperative gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) in right colon cancer and to build a prediction nomogram for personalized prediction of PGS.

METHODS

Our study retrospectively analyzed 361 patients with right colon cancer who underwent right hemicolectomy at The First Hospital of Putian City in Fujian Province, China and who were hospitalized between January 2012 and July 2022. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the independent risk factors for PGS and to establish a nomogram model. Furthermore, discrimination, calibration, and clinical benefits were used to evaluate the model.

RESULTS

The multivariate logistic regression revealed that dissection of the subpyloric lymph nodes (No. 206 lymph node) (OR 5.242, P = 0.005), preoperative fasting blood glucose level (OR 3.708, P = 0.024), preoperative albumin level (OR 3.503, P = 0.020), and total operative time (OR 4.648, P = 0.014) were independent risk factors for PGS. Based on the above four factors, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) and C-index of the nomogram were 0.831. The prediction nomogram's calibration curve was closer to the ideal diagonal, and the Hosmer‒Lemeshow test indicated that the nomogram fit well (P = 0.399). Moreover, the decision curve analysis revealed that the model can present better clinical benefits when the threshold probability was between 1 and 28%, and the internal validation verified the dependability of the model (C-index = 0.948).

CONCLUSIONS

A risk prediction nomogram based on perioperative factors provided the physician with a simple, visual, and efficient tool for the prediction and management of PGS in right colon cancer.

Efficacy and safety of adhesion barrier in living-donor liver transplantation with right liver graft to prevent delayed gastric emptying

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a common complication of liver transplantation. This study aimed to clarify the efficacy and safety of the application of an adhesion barrier for preventing DGE in living-donor liver transplantation. This retrospective study included 453 patients who underwent living-donor liver transplantation using a right lobe graft between January 2018 and August 2019, and the incidence of postoperative DGE and complications was compared between patients in whom adhesion barrier was used (n=179 patients) and those in whom adhesion barrier was not used (n=274 patients). We performed 1:1 propensity score matching between the 2 groups, and 179 patients were included in each group. DGE was defined according to the International Study Group for Pancreatic Surgery classification. The use of adhesion barrier was significantly associated with a lower overall incidence of postoperative DGE in liver transplantation (30.7 vs. 17.9%; p =0.002), including grades A (16.8 vs. 9.5%; p =0.03), B (7.3 vs. 3.4%; p =0.08), and C (6.6 vs. 5.5%; p =0.50). After propensity score matching, similar results were observed for the overall incidence of DGE (29.6 vs. 17.9%; p =0.009), including grades A (16.8 vs. 9.5%; p =0.04), B (6.7 vs. 3.4%; p =0.15), and C (6.1 vs. 5.0%; p =0.65). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed a significant correlation between the use of adhesion barrier and a low incidence of DGE. There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications between the 2 groups. The application of an adhesion barrier could be a safe and feasible method to reduce the incidence of postoperative DGE in living-donor liver transplantation.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy as a long-term solution for severe feeding problems in children

Enteral feeding is a common problem in children with gastric emptying disorders. Traditional feeding methods in these patients often show a high rate of complications and maintenance issues. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy (LRFJ) has been described in a few patients as a minimal invasive option for enteral access in these children. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of the LRFJ procedure in our tertiary referral center. We conducted a retrospective case-series including all patients, aged 0-18 years old, that underwent a LFRJ procedure between August 2011 and December 2020 for the indication of oral feeding intolerance due to delayed gastric emptying. Outcomes evaluated were complications (short and long term) and parenteral satisfaction. In total, 12 children were identified that underwent LRFJ for the indication of oral feeding intolerance due to delayed gastric emptying. A total of 16 complications were noted in 8/12 patients (67%). Severity classified by Clavien-Dindo were grade I (n = 13), grade II (n = 1), and grade IIIB (n = 2). In 11/12 patients, parents were satisfied with the results.

CONCLUSIONS

Although minor complications after LRFJ are common in our patients, this technique is a safe solution in patients with gastric emptying disorders leading to a definitive method of enteral feeding and high parenteral satisfaction.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Traditional tube feeding in children (duodenal, PEG-J-tubes) with severe delayed gastric emptying can be challenging with a high rate of complications and maintenance issues. • Open loop jejunostomy and Roux-en-Y jejunostomy are alternative, permanent methods of feeding but either invasive or are accompanied by severe complications. Little is known in the literature about laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy.

WHAT IS NEW

• Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy is a permanent, safe and minimal invasive alternative option for enteral feeding in children with severe delayed gastric emptying..

Acupuncture for postoperative gastroparesis syndrome: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) is an early common complication after upper abdominal surgery, especially which occurs mainly after gastroduodenal operation. Acupuncture, a complementary and alternative therapy, has been widely used in China because of its significant effect and few side effects. We conduct a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for the treatment of PGS.

METHODS

This systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO network (registration number: CRD42022369167). We will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Protocol to accomplish the study. Following databases will be searched: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang data, Chinese Scientific Journals Database, and China biomedical literature database. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the application of acupuncture in the treatment of patients with PGS will be included. The risk of bias of the included studies will be assessed using the Cochrane tool of risk of bias. All statistical analyses will be conducted using the STATA13.0 software.

RESULTS

This study is ongoing and the results will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal for publication.

CONCLUSION

The conclusion of this review will provide evidence to judge whether acupuncture is an effective intervention for patient with PGS.