Prospective follow-up after curettage-cryosurgery for scalp and face skin cancers

BACKGROUND

Cryosurgery (CS) in the treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), especially in the face and on the scalp, has several advantages vs. other methods. Prospectively gathered long-term results after CS are, however, scarce.

OBJECTIVES

To establish long-term results after curettage and CS (CCS) of NMSCs in the face and on the scalp considering complication rate, patient tolerance, cosmetic outcome and rate of recurrence.

METHODS

Seven hundred and twenty-six patients with 962 face and scalp NMSCs were prospectively followed after CCS (1 week, 3 months, and then annually) during the time period December 1994-September 2008.

RESULTS

Mean/median follow-up time was 42/34 months (range 1 month-14 years). Forty-two of 962 (4.4%) received antibiotics due to clinical, superficial infections. No serious complications were recorded. Ninety-nine per cent of the women and 100% of the men graded the cosmetic outcome as 'good' on a three-level scale, follow-up rate 99%. Fifty-six (14%) women and 78 (23%) men (P = 0.001) developed one or more new NMSCs during the study period. Fourteen of 962 (1.5%) recurrences were recorded, in nine women and five men. An expected recurrence-free rate/cure rate of > 97% after 14 years was calculated (Kaplan-Meier).

CONCLUSIONS

CCS in the treatment of NMSCs is expedient and well tolerated, with no major and few minor complications. When performed as in the present study it produces good cosmetic results in virtually all cases, with an anticipated 97% cure rate after 14 years. CCS is thus a highly viable alternative in the treatment of NMSCs in the face and on the scalp.

Ten-year results of a randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic total fundoplication with or without division of the short gastric vessels

BACKGROUND

Total fundoplication is the most common antireflux operation and can be performed with or without division of the short gastric vessels. There seems to be no difference in short-term outcomes with either approach. The aim of the study was to determine whether there were the long-term differences (after 10 years).

METHODS

Ninety-nine patients were enrolled in the study. Short gastric vessels were divided in 52 patients (group 1) and left intact in 47 (group 2). Ten patients were lost to follow-up and seven patients died, leaving 42 patients for analysis in group 1 and 40 in group 2. All patients were evaluated by standardized quality of life questionnaires.

RESULTS

Three patients underwent reoperation within 5 years. Thirty-eight of 42 patients with a completely mobilized fundus reported no reflux symptoms, compared with 31 of 40 patients with intact vessels. There were no differences between the groups in other symptoms reflecting post-fundoplication complaints and quality of life outcomes.

CONCLUSION

When total fundoplication is performed it makes no difference whether the fundus is mobilized or not. Both types of repair provide lasting control of reflux.

Fibrin glue for securing the mesh in laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair: a study with a 40-month prospective follow-up period

BACKGROUND

Anchoring the mesh in laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal groin hernia repair (TEP) with human fibrin glue has theoretical advantages. However, these have been supported and reported previously only in animal studies. Before the initiation of large patient trials, the authors wanted to confirm the feasibility, assess the costs, and rule out any flagrant short- and long-term adverse effects of fibrin glue usage in a small series of patients.

METHODS

Nine consecutive TEP repairs with fibrin glue mesh fixation were performed. The perioperative and postoperative outcomes at 1, 16, and 40 months were compared with those for a control group of 96 stapled repairs.

RESULTS

Gluing was easy and is less expensive than stapling. No fibrin glue-related adverse effects were found. The overall outcome was similar to that for stapled repairs, with no indication that the glued repairs were inferior.

CONCLUSIONS

Fibrin glue seems to be a reasonable, feasible, and maybe even competitive alternative to the standard tissue-penetrating mesh fixation. The results of this study justify launching larger trials.

Prospective follow-up after ambulatory plain midline excision of pilonidal sinus and primary suture under local anaesthesia--efficient, sufficient, and persistent

OBJECTIVE

Optimal surgical treatment for chronic pilonidal sinus (PS) disease should be easy and efficient. The purpose of this study was to establish the feasibility of and results after ambulatory simple midline excision and primary wound closure under local anaesthesia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The prospective nonrandomised single institution study included 131 consecutive PS patients admitted for surgery. After standardized surgery, all patients were prospectively followed until fully healed. Complications were registered. Results after 41 months (mean, range 36-59) were evaluated by questionnaire.

RESULTS

95% were primary closed. All were ambulatory treated and 98% under local anaesthesia. 88% healed in two weeks. 5.6% exhibited minor wound healing defects and 6.4% demanded full debridement of the wound. Mean delayed healing time was 7.5 weeks (range 3-12). 8% developed a recurrence. 10% of the remainders reported a slight tenderness in the scar area. 90% were symptom-free.

CONCLUSION

PS treatment as of above is readily achieved. Wound related complications were reasonably few and in the same magnitude as after more complex excision techniques and induced no significant long-term sequels. Recurrences could, however, be more common. Prospective randomised studies are warranted to determine if there are any significant differences between excision techniques in and out of the midline.

Local endoscopic removal of duodenal carcinoid tumors

A swift and aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic approach is advisable when managing submucosal or polypoid lesions in the duodenum, since it is not possible to distinguish small, benign, and unremarkable duodenal growths macroscopically from malignant tumors such as carcinoids. This paper presents a systematic review of the published literature listed in Medline, focusing on the results after endoscopic treatment of duodenal carcinoids during the last 15 years; on the biological behavior of duodenal carcinoids; and on the endoscopic appearance of duodenal carcinoids. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is extremely useful in the diagnostic and preoperative work-up. The results indicate that endoscopic removal of duodenal carcinoids smaller than 1 cm that are located outside the periampullary region, with no EUS signs of invasion of the muscularis propria, is a safe, patient-friendly, adequate, and effective treatment.

Quantitative assessment of motility-associated changes in gastric and duodenal luminal pH in humans

BACKGROUND

Interdigestive pain relieved by food is a common feature of ulcer disease. We tested the hypothesis that the duodenal bulb is intermittently acidified in association with phase III of the interdigestive motility cycle, and tried to quantify the balance between acid and duodenal bicarbonate secretion during this particular period.

METHODS

The experiments were performed in Helicobacter-negative healthy volunteers. Gastric and duodenal luminal pH was measured with a triple antimon electrode before, during, and after phase III of the migrating motor complex. Gastric acid secretion rate was measured in real time with a perfusion system and duodenal bicarbonate secretion was estimated from a continuous recording of the transmucosal potential difference (PD) in the duodenal bulb.

RESULTS

No significant changes in bulb pH occurred before, during, or after phase III. During the studied time window, the stomach produced 2.24 +/- 0.55 mmol of acid at a peak pH of 1.74 +/- 0.10. Basal HCO3- secretion calculated from bulb PD was 0.82 +/- 0.12 mmol x 30 min(-1) to which was added 0.47 +/- 0.07 mmol of HCO3- during duodenal phase III. The contribution of retroperistalsis-driven HCO3- reflux was small (0.08 +/- 0.02 mmol).

CONCLUSIONS

Both the pH recording and the quantitative assessment of secretion rates show that in healthy subjects, fasting gastric acid production and duodenal bicarbonate secretion are of similar magnitude and dynamically coordinated. The mechanism behind the linkage may be reflex activation by motor activity, or a luminal PCO2 rise during phase III activity.

Laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty--an effective long-term therapy for morbidly obese patients?

BACKGROUND

Vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) has previously been documented as an effective treatment for morbid obesity. We have described a laparoscopic technique to perform this operation. Follow-up data are now presented.

METHODS

A consecutive series of 139 morbidly obese patients were operated on with laparoscopic VBG. The patients were assessed with respect to peri- and postoperative morbidity, postoperative recovery and weight reduction up to 5 years thereafter.

RESULTS

Conversions to an open operation (n = 6) and early reoperations (n = 3) occurred in the early part of the series. Late complications were observed in 8 patients. The average weight reduction after 1 year was 50% of excess body weight, which remained also after 2 years. The continued follow-up covering 3 to 5 years postoperatively revealed a moderate weight gain in about 20% of patients.

CONCLUSION

VBG can be safely performed by use of the laparoscopic technique. The average weight reduction after 1 and 2 years was 50% of excess body weight, whereafter tendency to partial weight gain was noted, suggesting an outcome comparable to that documented after the open surgical approach.

Gastric secretion in cystic fibrosis in relation to the migrating motor complex

BACKGROUND

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) have been claimed to have defect intestinal motility and gastric acid secretion. The aim of this work was to study the interdigestive motility and the motility-related secretions in the upper gastrointestinal tract in patients with CF compared to healthy controls.

METHODS

Concomitant gastroduodenal manometry combined with intragastric perfusion was performed in 12 healthy volunteers and 10 patients with CF.

RESULTS

Eight CF patients showed a normal migrating motor complex. Motility-related gastric secretion of acid and bicarbonate was evaluated in six patients and did not differ from healthy subjects. Gastric net fluid secretion was significantly decreased in the CF patients and bilirubin reflux was significantly increased. The CF patients with pancreatic insufficiency lacked motility-related variations in plasma levels of motilin and pancreatic peptide.

CONCLUSIONS

No defect in fasting motility or gastric secretion of acid or bicarbonate could be seen in well-nourished adult CF patients. The main finding was a significantly lower net fluid secretion and higher bilirubin reflux compared to healthy subjects. Indications of a genetic relationship could be seen.

Impact of complete gastric fundus mobilization on outcome after laparoscopic total fundoplication

With the objective of further optimizing the outcome of antireflux surgery, we have studied the importance of dividing the short gastric vessels when performing a laparoscopic total fundoplication. Ninety-nine consecutive patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were enrolled in the trial. Forty-seven patients (25 men, age 52 +/- 1.6 years [mean +/- standard error]) were randomized to undergo a laparoscopic Nissen-Rossetti total fundic wrap with intact short gastric vessels, whereas 52 patients (29 men, 48 +/- 1.4 years) had complete division of these vessels. Quality of life was assessed by means of the psychological general well-being and gastrointestinal symptom rating scale indices. The 6- and 12-month follow-up data are reported. Two patients were converted to open surgery. Mobilization of the fundus significantly prolonged the operative time (120 vs. 104 minutes, P = 0.05); otherwise the complication rates were similar in the two groups. Both procedures were equally effective in controlling gastroesophageal reflux at 6 and 12 months' postoperatively. Division of the short gastric vessels had no significant impact on the point prevalence of postfundoplication complaints at the given follow-up time points. Quality of life was significantly improved by both operative procedures and remained "normal" throughout the follow-up period. Dividing all short gastric vessels had no impact on the functional outcome during the first year of recovery after a total laparoscopic fundoplication.

Intestinal perfusion during pneumoperitoneum with carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and nitric oxide during laparoscopic surgery

OBJECTIVE

To find out what effect insufflation pressure and type of gas have on intestinal perfusion during pneumoperitoneum.

DESIGN

Randomized, controlled, prospective, experimental study.

SETTING

University affiliated animal experimental laboratory, Sweden.

ANIMALS

Fasted, anaesthetised, domestic pigs of both sexes operated on laparoscopically (n = 7, weight 26-31 kg).

INTERVENTIONS

Insufflation of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitric oxide (NO), or nitrogen (N2) at intra-abdominal pressures of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 mm Hg.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Cardiac output, portal blood flow, and jejunal mucosal perfusion.

RESULTS

Cardiac output decreased during N2 and NO (15, 20 mm Hg) but not during CO2 insufflation because of an accompanying tachycardia. Portal flow decreased during insufflation with N2 and NO (15, 20 mm Hg) and CO2 (20 mm Hg). Jejunal perfusion was reduced during N2 and NO insufflation (5-20 mm Hg) but remained unchanged during CO2 insufflation (5-20 mm Hg).

CONCLUSIONS

Insufflation with CO2 maintained jejunal mucosal perfusion, probably as a result of hypercarbia as N2 at equal pressures reduced mesenteric flow. The vasodilator NO provided no haemodynamic benefit.

Splanchnic circulation and regional sympathetic outflow during peroperative PEEP ventilation in humans

The splanchnic organs represent a major target for sympathetic outflow and an important region for haemodynamic effects on cardiovascular homeostasis. We have studied regional haemodynamic and sympathetic changes in the splanchnic bed during standardized circulatory stress from positive end-expiratory pressure ventilation (PEEP). We investigated eight patients undergoing major upper abdominal surgery using a radiotracer method to measure plasma spillover of norepinephrine as an index of sympathetic nerve activity using arterial, portal and hepatic venous blood sampling. Mesenteric and hepatic perfusion were measured by ultrasound transit time flowmetry and blood-gas analyses. Steady state measurements were performed before and during PEEP ventilation at 10 cm H2O. Plasma spillover of norepinephrine in the mesenteric and hepatic organs represented mean 49 (SEM 8)% and 7 (2)%, respectively, of systemic norepinephrine spillover at baseline, and PEEP ventilation did not cause any significant changes. However, PEEP ventilation significantly decreased portal venous blood flow while hepatic blood flow was preserved by a compensatory increase in hepatic arterial blood flow. Mesenteric and hepatic oxygen delivery changed according to blood flow, and there were no changes in regional oxygen consumption. Thus PEEP ventilation altered mesenteric and hepatic perfusion, independent of any change in corresponding sympathetic nerve activity. Regulation of hepatic blood supply, not related to sympathetic activity, maintained liver oxygenation during PEEP ventilation despite a simultaneous decrease in mesenteric perfusion.

Outcome of open antireflux surgery as assessed in a Nordic multicentre prospective clinical trial. Nordic GORD-Study Group

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the outcome of antireflux surgery in various hospitals in Scandinavian countries.

DESIGN

Partly randomised controlled study, and partly open study.

SETTING

Hospitals throughout Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland.

SUBJECTS

310 patients with chronic reflux disease and oesophagitis who were initially entered into a randomised controlled study of omeprazole and antireflux surgery.

INTERVENTIONS

Total fundic wrap, partial fundoplication, or omeprazole.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Control of symptoms at one year.

RESULTS

154 patients who had their symptoms of reflux completely controlled with omeprazole were initially randomised to have an open operation but 10 refused, leaving 144 for analysis. 34 patients who had only a partial response were also offered operation; 120/178 (68%) had a total fundic wrap, and 53 (30%) partial fundoplication. 6 patients had postoperative complications that required reoperation and 123 made a completely uneventful recovery. Reflux was controlled in most patients, and only 10 (6%) required further treatment with omeprazole. The outcome in those patients who only responded partially to omeprazole was similar to that in patients who had a complete response.

CONCLUSION

The outcome of antireflux surgery throughout Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland is good.

Laparoscopic or open fundoplication? A complete cost analysis

BACKGROUND

As part of a prospective observational trial, we set out to determine the direct and indirect costs of an open versus a laparoscopic fundoplication for chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

METHODS

Two groups of patients, each comprising 28 subjects, were studied.

RESULTS

All patients received a functioning fundoplication that did not require any additional therapy. Because 19 and 12 patients in the open and laparoscopy groups, respectively, were employed in the work force, we were able to assess the costs due to loss of production. The mean operating time was similar for both groups, but postoperative stay differed significantly; though it amounted to 8 days for the open group, it was only 2 days for the laparoscopy group. Postoperative sick leave was 29.9 days in the open and 9.9 in the laparoscopy group (p < 0.05). The costs of the operations were 18,363 SEK for laparoscopy and 12,856 SEK for conventional fundoplication. On the other hand, the cost for hospital stay amounted to 35,488 SEK in the open group but was only 25,571 SEK for those undergoing laparoscopy. When we add outpatient visits, endoscopies, and other medical expenses, the total direct costs in the laparoscopy group come to 27,693 SEK, as compared to 37,482 SEK for the open fundoplication. The indirect medical costs, which were dominated by loss of production (36,732 versus 12,126 SEK), came to 37,126 and 12,595 SEK in the open and laparoscopy groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The total community-based costs for the open and laparoscopic operations for chronic GERD amounted to 74,608 and 40,289 SEK, respectively. Thus, we would recommend the laparoscopic procedure in most cases.

Other laparoscopic bariatric procedures

Laparoscopic surgery is regarded as a major improvement reflected by a rapid recovery and low perioperative and postoperative morbidity. In obese patients the gains of this new technique may be affected by obesity-related problems, such as impaired respiratory function, high intraabdominal pressure, thick abdominal wall, and liver steatosis. This review describes the development of laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) and gastric bypass procedures; and it addresses questions such as feasibility, comparability to open procedures, procedure-related problems, and recovery. The clinical outcome after laparoscopic VBG and gastric bypass is also updated. Up to May 1997 we have operated on 105 patients with laparoscopic VBG and another 26 completed laparoscopic gastric bypass procedures. The weight loss after both procedures are in accordance with the weight loss seen with open surgery. Procedure-related complications are described in detail in this paper. It is concluded that laparoscopic bariatric surgery will remain an area of importance for clinical practice, research, and development.

Human duodenogastric reflux, retroperistalsis, and MMC

The aim of this study was to determine to what extent human migrating motor complex (MMC)-related secretory phenomena are influenced by a recently discovered period of duodenal retroperistalsis during late phase III. A constant-flow perfusion technique was used to measure gastric appearance of acid, bicarbonate, pepsin, bilirubin, IgA, and duodenally infused [14C]polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 in 12 healthy volunteers. Interdigestive gastroduodenal motility was recorded by digital manometry. During late antral phase II and III, the gastric lumen was acidified (P < 0.005 phase III vs. phase I) together with a marked increase in luminal pepsin output (3.1 +/- 1.2 during phase III vs. 0.25 +/- 0.08 kU/5 min in phase I, P < 0.01), followed by a realkalinization due to a simultaneous reduction of acid secretion and a duodenogastric reflux, aided by retrograde peristalsis, of bicarbonate and IgA but not of bilirubin, at the end of antral phase III (P < 0.05 phase III vs. phase I values). This physiological duodenoantral reflux phenomenon may play an important role in the chemical and immunological restitution of the antral mucosal barrier function after the exposure to high acid and pepsin concentrations during antral phase III activity.

Comprehensive 1-year cost analysis of open antireflux surgery in Nordic countries. Nordic GORD Study Group. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND

Antireflux surgery is a highly effective treatment option in patients with severe gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. However, because of the increasing pressure of cost containment within health care, cost aspects must also be added to the decision-making process.

METHODS

The aim of this analysis was to assess the total cost of open antireflux surgery during the first year after operation in 178 patients with chronic reflux, who were recruited into a controlled, prospective clinical trial. The study was carried out in 17 hospitals in the Nordic countries.

RESULTS

The cost of the operation represented more than 90 per cent of the direct medical costs which amounted to approximately US $5700. For a patient in the work force the indirect cost, i.e. loss of production, represented 47 per cent of the total cost, which was about US $10800.

CONCLUSION

The total cost profile of open antireflux surgery has now been established prospectively and can form a basis for future comparisons.

Local and systemic immune responses in humans against Helicobacter pylori antigens from homologous and heterologous strains

The capacity of Helicobacter pylori to induce strain specific immune responses was studied in adult Swedish volunteers. Sera and gastric aspirates from 11 H. pylori-infected subjects were tested for specific antibody levels against, respectively, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and total membrane preparations (MPs) prepared from the study subjects' own strains, as well as with corresponding antigens from two reference H. pylori strains or heterologous strains collected from other subjects within the study. It was found that sera from five of the 11 subjects had significantly higher IgA antibody titres against LPS from the homologous strain than against LPS from either of the reference strains and in five cases sera reacted with higher IgG titres against the homologous LPS than with LPS preparations from the reference or heterologous patient strains. Analyses of specific titres against MPs revealed that six sera had higher IgA titres and four sera had higher IgG titres against MPs prepared from the subjects' own strains than against MPs from either of the two reference strains. Determination of specific antibodies in gastric aspirates revealed significantly higher IgA titres against LPS from the homologous H. pylori isolate than against LPS from the two reference strains in five cases, and six aspirates reacted in higher IgA titre with the homologous H. pylori MPs. Results from immunoblotting analyses of sera support induction of strain specific immune responses against H. pylori LPS. By means of specific monoclonal antibodies against H. pylori LPS, antigenic heterogeneity between the different LPS preparations tested was confirmed.

Respiratory function after laparoscopic and open fundoplication

OBJECTIVE

To compare respiratory function in the immediate postoperative period in patients undergoing open or laparoscopic fundoplication.

DESIGN

Prospective non-randomised open study.

SETTING

University hospital, Sweden.

SUBJECTS

A consecutive series of 32 patients who underwent a conventional open fundoplication and a further 25 consecutive patients who had a similar procedure done laparoscopically.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Respiratory function, oxygen saturation, body temperature, analgesic consumption, rate of mobilisation, and postoperative stay in hospital.

RESULTS

In the early postoperative period the respiratory function deteriorated less in the laparoscopy group as reflected by higher oxygen saturation (mean (SEM) 95.8 (0.6)% compared with 94.0 (0.6)%) on the first postoperative day (p < 0.05) and less reduction in forced vital capacity and peak expiratory flow (2.3 (0.2) L compared with 1.8 (0.1) L and 279.8 (19.7) L/min compared with 207 (19.8) L/min respectively) (p < 0.05). Patients had significantly less fever after the laparoscopic procedure (37.5 (0.1) C degrees compared with 38.0 (0.1) C degrees) (p < 0.001) and left hospital earlier (median 2 (range 1-5) days compared with 6 (3-9) (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

All fundoplication procedures impair respiratory function but significantly less if the procedure is done laparoscopically.

Quality of life assessment after laparoscopic and open fundoplications. Results of a prospective, clinical study

BACKGROUND

In the evaluation of different treatment alternatives, assessment of the patients' own perceived situation can give important clinical information in addition to the conventional efficacy variables used.

METHODS

Fifty patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were operated on with either an open fundoplication (n = 25; 17 men; mean age, 51.5 years) or with a fundoplication through the laparoscope (n = 25; 16 men; mean age, 49.8 years). In each case adequate control of the GERD was achieved with the operation, also when objectively assessed. Twelve months after surgery the quality of life was studied by using a battery of self-administered questionnaires (the Psychological General Well-being (PGWB) index and the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), and a visual analogue scale, depicting specific reflux-related symptoms (RVAS).

RESULTS

After antireflux surgery the overall PGWB scores were normalized with no obvious difference between the two procedures. In the GSRS scale, however, differences were shown between the two procedures, with more dyspeptic and indigestion symptoms in patients having a laparoscopic total fundic wrap.

CONCLUSION

These data emphasize the clinical efficacy of antireflux surgery, with normalization of the quality of life in terms of well-being after these procedures. It should be noted that these instruments are sensitive enough to pick up significant differences between different antireflux procedures and should therefore be frequently used in the attempt to refine and optimize long-term therapeutic alternatives in reflux disease.

Laparoscopic gastric bypass. Another option in bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

The present report describes the technical details of laparoscopic bypass for morbid obesity.

METHODS

The laparoscopic approach was attempted in eight patients and completed in six. In these latter patients the stomach was divided with an endoscopic linear cutter (ETC 60 Ethicon), and a antecolic jejunal loop was brought to the proximal pouch and anastomosed by use of manual suture technique supported with locking clips for knotting substitutes [Lapra-Ty (Ethicon)]. Distal to the gastrojejunostomy a side-to-side enteroanastomosis was also performed.

RESULTS

Five patients in whom the laparoscopic procedure was completed had an uneventful postoperative period and a rapid recovery. However, one patient had a postoperative left-sided pleuropneumonia that required prolonged hospital stay. Of those who were converted, one was because of a large steatotic left liver lobe and another was due to a perforation of the small intestine.

CONCLUSIONS

These early results indicate that gastric bypass for the treatment of morbid obesity can be safely performed with laparoscopic techniques. Further development in this field should be encouraged.

A mechanism by which Helicobacter pylori infection of the antrum contributes to the development of duodenal ulcer

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Helicobacter pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease are firmly correlated. However, the bacteria do mainly colonize the antrum, indicating an indirect pathogenic mechanism. The aim of this study was to test a concept claiming that H. pylori infection of the antrum selectively blocks normal inhibitory reflex pathways to gastrin and parietal cells.

METHODS

The effect of antral distention was studied on gastric acid secretion stimulated by pentagastrin and on gastrin release stimulated by gastrin-releasing peptide in H. pylori-infected and noninfected patients with and without duodenal ulcer disease, as well as after eradication of the bacteria.

RESULTS

The inhibitory effect on gastric acid secretion induced by antral distention was absent in H. pylori-infected patients irrespective of whether or not they had duodenal ulcer disease. The inhibitory mechanism was restituted in 8 of 10 patients within 9 months after successful eradication of H. pylori infection. Similar results were obtained in studies on gastrin release.

CONCLUSIONS

H. pylori infection blocks normal, physiological inhibitory mechanisms from the antrum to both the gastrin cells and to the parietal cell region, resulting in increased gastrin release and impaired inhibition of gastric acid secretion, which will probably lead to an increased duodenal acid load as a general prerequisite for the development of duodenal ulcer disease.

Sympathetic discharge to mesenteric organs and the liver. Evidence for substantial mesenteric organ norepinephrine spillover

This study using sampling of blood from the portal vein, in addition to arterial and hepatic sites, to estimate separately spillovers of norepinephrine from mesenteric organs and the liver in seven patients undergoing upper abdominal surgery. Conventional measurements in arterial and hepatic venous plasma provided a measure of net hepatomesenteric NE spillover (403 pmol/ml) that indicated a 13% contribution of these organs to total body spillover of NE into systemic plasma (3,071+/-518 pmol/min). The net hepatomesenteric spillover of NE into systemic plasma was much lower than the spillover of NE from mesenteric organs into portal venous plasma (1,684+/-418 pmol/min). This and the hepatic spillover of NE into systemic plasma (212+/-72 pmol/min) indicated a considerable combined spillover of NE from hepatomesenteric organs (1,896+/-455 pmol/min). The sum of the latter estimate with the difference between total body and net hepatomesenteric NE spillovers provided an adjusted total body spillover of NE into both systemic and portal venous plasma (4,564+/-902 pmol/min). Mesenteric organs made a 37% contribution, and the liver made a 5% contribution to the adjusted total body spillover of NE. Thus, a substantial proportion of total body sympathetic outflow is directed towards mesenteric organs; this is obscured by efficient hepatic extraction of NE (86+/-6%) when measurements are restricted to arterial and hepatic venous plasma.

Vertical banded gastroplasty by laparoscopic technique in the treatment of morbid obesity

From October 1993 through May 1994, 38 consecutive morbidly obese patients underwent a laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG). During the operation a gastric window was made by a 25-mm circular stapler; and the vertical staple line, establishing the gastric pouch, was constructed by using a 60-mm, four-row linear stapler. The outflow stoma was reinforced by a Gore-Tex band and calibrated to have an internal diameter of 9 mm. Three patients had to be converted to open surgery during the initial laparoscopic procedure because of insufficient operative access. Another three patients had to be reoperated during subsequent postoperative courses, one laparoscopically to reinforce a vertical staple line defect caused by a transected nasogastric tube, another because of an open reoperation during the first postoperative day for a rupture in the vertical staple line, and, finally, a patient was reexplored because of the present of postoperative fever with a left-sided pleuropneumonia and subphrenic accumulation of fluid. However, during the operation no leakage or any other local complications were detected. The subsequent postoperative courses were uneventful in all these patients. Compared with the reference group comprising the latest consecutive 17 obese patients operated with open VBG before the introduction of the laparoscopic technique, the laparoscopy group had less postoperative pain and had mobilization sooner. In the latter group, we recorded an improved respiratory status during the early postoperative period, as reflected by increased oxygen saturation and peak exspiratory flow rates as well as a lower body temperature. In conclusion, laparoscopic VBG is technically feasible and can be safely performed. Our early postoperative experiences suggest that these patients have a shorter and less cumbersome postoperative recovery period compared with conventionally operated obese patients. The long-term follow-up of these patients will determine whether these initial advantages of the laparoscopic approach are corroborated by comparable effects on weight control.

Mechanisms behind changes in gastric acid and bicarbonate outputs during the human interdigestive motility cycle

Human gastric interdigestive acid and bicarbonate outputs vary cyclically in association with the migrating motor complex (MMC). These phenomena were studied in 26 healthy volunteers by constant-flow gastric perfusion, with continuous recording of pH and Pco2 in mixed gastric effluent and concomitant open-tip manometry of gastroduodenal motility. Stable acid and bicarbonate outputs were registered during less than 50% of the MMC cycle. Acid secretion started to increase 71 +/- 3% into the cycle, with maximum output during antral phase III. Bicarbonate output increased biphasically 1) 40 +/- 5% into the cycle, coinciding with reflux of bile, and 2) at the end of duodenal phase III when the aspirate was devoid of bile. The bicarbonate peak associated with phase III was abolished by atropine (0.01 mg/kg iv, n = 8) and by pyloric occlusion (n = 9) but remained unchanged after omeprazole (n = 10). The acid peak was abolished by both atropine and omeprazole. It is concluded that the MMC-related changes in acid and alkaline outputs represent two different and independent phenomena. Acid secretion cyclicity is due to periodical variations in cholinergic stimulation of the parietal cells. In contrast, the phase III-associated increase in bicarbonate output is due to duodenogastric reflux.

The pH/PCO2 method for continuous determination of human gastric acid and bicarbonate secretion. A validation study

BACKGROUND

The present paper describes and evaluates a methodologic approach for registration of the fast, interdigestive, motility-related changes in gastric acid and bicarbonate outputs seen in man.

METHODS

The technique is based on continuous gastric luminal perfusion and measurements of pH and PCO2 in gastric effluent and concomitant intragastric/duodenal manometry. Fourteen healthy volunteers participated.

RESULTS

Direct acid secretory estimations from pH recordings, corrected for hydrogen ion activity, correlated closely with values obtained by conventional titration. After intragastric infusion of bicarbonate, 96 +/- 5% of the newly measured steady-state value was registered virtually instantaneously provided that corrections for the PCO2 electrode time constant and the perfusion/aspiration time were made. In the neutral pH range (pH 5-7), practically full quantitative recovery of intragastrically infused bicarbonate was obtained. In the acid pH interval (pH 2-5) the recovery was significantly lower (53 +/- 6%; p < 0.01). With an aspirate without air admixture and during high perfusion rates (31 and 46 ml/min), full recovery of bicarbonate was obtained also at an acid pH, whereas a reduced perfusion rate (16 ml/min) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the recovery rate.

CONCLUSIONS

With the pH/PCO2 technique both acid and bicarbonate assessments have a close to on-line time resolution. Acid output is measured accurately, but the method potentially underestimates actual bicarbonate levels in the acid pH range, a combined effect of diffusion of CO2 into air bubbles in the aspirate and into the gastric mucosa from the lumen. A high gastric perfusion rate minimizes this source of error. The pH/PCO2 technique is well suited for studies of the interaction between secretion and motility in the human stomach.

Gastric output of IgA in man: relation to migrating motility complexes and sham feeding

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The immunologic reactivity of the gastric mucosa is poorly understood. The origin and dynamics of immunoglobulin A (IgA) occurring in the gastric lumen were investigated in healthy, Helicobacter pylori-negative volunteers.

METHODS

Gastroduodenal manometric motility recordings were combined with gastric luminal perfusion, enabling calculation of gastric acid output and analysis of the total IgA output.

RESULTS

Acid output and total IgA correlated with the migrating motility complexes (MMC). The gastric IgA release showed maximal values in association with gastric motility phase III (maximal motor activity) and lowest values during phases I and II (none or irregular motor activity). The IgA output correlated with neither swallowed saliva (as indicated by amylase in the gastric perfusate) nor duodenogastric reflux (as indicated by gastric occurrence of bilirubin and/or duodenally infused PEG4000). Stimulation of gastric acid secretion by sham feeding during phase II-like motor activity (n = 6) induced a rapid and transient doubling of IgA output. There was no significant correlation between gastric acid secretion and gastric IgA release.

CONCLUSION

Substantial amounts of IgA are released into the human stomach, most likely originating from the gastric mucosa. The up-regulation of IgA release in association with the activity front of the MMC and anticipatory to food intake suggests a neuroendocrine control of gastric mucosal immune responses.

Hypovolemia-induced cardiovascular effects on human gastric mucosal acid and HCO3- release

BACKGROUND

The bicarbonate ion seems to play a crucial role in mucosal acid-base regulation by generating a pH gradient that is regarded as a 'first line of defense' against acid back-diffusion. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of hypovolemia on gastric mucosal buffering capacity, as reflected by luminal HCO3- release, in human volunteers.

METHODS

Central hypovolemia was induced by lower-body negative pressure (LBNP), and HCO3- release was measured by using a perfusion system based on continuous recording of the pH and PCO2 of gastric aspirate. The response to LBNP was related to concomitant cardiovascular effects, to gastric pH, and to the current phase of the migrating motor complex (MMC).

RESULTS

At an acid gastric pH, LBNP induced a slight but statistically significant reduction in luminal HCO3- release (-27 +/- 10%, p < 0.05). The magnitude of the response was significantly correlated with the degree of reflex tachycardia. A larger and less variable response (-78 +/- 4%, p < 0.01 versus control group) was seen when luminal pH was increased by ranitidine pretreatment. The effect of LBNP on HCO3- release was statistically significant only during the early and middle parts of the MMC cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that hypotension may reduce gastric mucosal buffering capacity, probably by activation of a sympathetic reflex. The magnitude of this response seems to depend on: 1) the degree of baroreceptor unloading; 2) luminal pH; and 3) the current phase of the MMC.

Does antral distension inhibit gastric acid secretion or stimulate bicarbonate secretion in 'healthy' subjects?

The effects of a 150-ml antral balloon distension on pentagastrin-stimulated gastric acid secretion and bicarbonate secretion were studied in nine healthy subjects and eight duodenal ulcer (DU) patients. The gastric secretions were simultaneously measured, using a luminal perfusion and pH/PCO2 measurements. Two of the healthy subjects and six of the DU patients were positive for Helicobacter pylori. When H. pylori-positive and -negative subjects were compared, basal gastric acid and bicarbonate outputs did not differ significantly. In H. pylori-infected subjects the bicarbonate transport increased by about 70% on pentagastrin stimulation. In the H. pylori-negative group pentagastrin had no effect on the bicarbonate secretion. Antral distension elicited a 30-35% inhibition of pentagastrin-stimulated gastric acid secretion in the group of H. pylori-negative subjects, whereas the acid secretory level remained essentially unchanged in the positive group. Bicarbonate secretion decreased transiently by the distension in the negative subjects, whereas a slight increase was observed in the infected group. We conclude that antral distension inhibits pentagastrin-stimulated gastric acid output in healthy H. pylori-negative subjects. Our results strongly suggest that the underlying mechanism is a direct inhibition of gastric parietal cell function and not an increased gastric bicarbonate secretion. Furthermore, the results indicate that this defective distension-induced acid inhibition may be correlated to H. pylori infection rather than to duodenal ulcer disease.

Motility-related cyclic fluctuations of interdigestive gastric acid and bicarbonate secretion in man. A source of substantial variability in gastric secretion studies

The relationship between interdigestive gastric motility and secretion was studied in eight healthy volunteers. Acid and bicarbonate output rates were measured with a high time resolution, using a perfusion system based on continuous registration of pH and PCO2 of gastric effluent. Antral pressure was measured by manometry. The total duration of the interdigestive motility cycle (time between two phase-III complexes) was 96 +/- 12 min (mean +/- SE). In late migrating motor complex phase II, acid output, bicarbonate output, and bile reflux increased significantly. Acid secretion reached a peak in association with motor phase III. The gastric lumen was then rapidly alkalinized; this phenomenon was due to a simultaneous decrease in acid secretion and a short-lasting (15 +/- 2 min, mean +/- SE) phasic increase in bicarbonate output, which was not associated with bile reflux (bilirubin). After these phase-III-related events both acid and bicarbonate output rates reached a relatively stable level during phase I and early phase II. This period of stability constituted 47 +/- 3% (acid) and 41 +/- 6% (bicarbonate, means +/- SE), respectively, of the cycle. The peak to base line output ratio was 6.6 +/- 1.2 (p < 0.001) for acid and 2.8 +/- 0.3 (p < 0.001) for bicarbonate (means +/- SE). The results show a marked variability in acid and bicarbonate output rates during the interdigestive motility cycle. The magnitude of this variability has previously been underestimated owing to poor time resolution of the secretion measurements. If not taken into account, these 'spontaneous' secretory variations may constitute a considerable source of error in gastric secretion studies.