Optimization of tracheoesophageal fistula model established with T-shaped magnet system based on magnetic compression technique

BACKGROUND

The magnetic compression technique has been used to establish an animal model of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), but the commonly shaped magnets present limitations of poor homogeneity of TEF and poor model control. We designed a T-shaped magnet system to overcome these problems and verified its effectiveness via animal experiments.

AIM

To investigate the effectiveness of a T-shaped magnet system for establishing a TEF model in beagle dogs.

METHODS

Twelve beagles were randomly assigned to groups in which magnets of the T-shaped scheme (study group, n = 6) or normal magnets (control group, n = 6) were implanted into the trachea and esophagus separately under gastroscopy. Operation time, operation success rate, and accidental injury were recorded. After operation, the presence and timing of cough and the time of magnet shedding were observed. Dogs in the control group were euthanized after X-ray and gastroscopy to confirm establishment of TEFs after coughing, and gross specimens of TEFs were obtained. Dogs in the study group were euthanized after X-ray and gastroscopy 2 wk after surgery, and gross specimens were obtained. Fistula size was measured in all animals, and then harvested fistula specimens were examined by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Masson trichrome staining.

RESULTS

The operation success rate was 100% for both groups. Operation time did not differ between the study group (5.25 min ± 1.29 min) and the control group (4.75 min ± 1.70 min; P = 0.331). No bleeding, perforation, or unplanned magnet attraction occurred in any animal during the operation. In the early postoperative period, all dogs ate freely and were generally in good condition. Dogs in the control group had severe cough after drinking water at 6-9 d after surgery. X-ray indicated that the magnets had entered the stomach, and gastroscopy showed TEF formation. Gross specimens of TEFs from the control group showed the formation of fistulas with a diameter of 4.94 mm ± 1.29 mm (range, 3.52-6.56 mm). HE and Masson trichrome staining showed scar tissue formation and hierarchical structural disorder at the fistulas. Dogs in the study group did not exhibit obvious coughing after surgery. X-ray examination 2 wk after surgery indicated fixed magnet positioning, and gastroscopy showed no change in magnet positioning. The magnets were removed using a snare under endoscopy, and TEF was observed. Gross specimens showed well-formed fistulas with a diameter of 6.11 mm ± 0.16 mm (range, 5.92-6.36 mm), which exceeded that in the control group (P < 0.001). Scar formation was observed on the internal surface of fistulas by HE and Masson trichrome staining, and the structure was more regular than that in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Use of the modified T-shaped magnet scheme is safe and feasible for establishing TEF and can achieve a more stable and uniform fistula size compared with ordinary magnets. Most importantly, this model offers better controllability, which improves the flexibility of follow-up studies.

A Millimeter-Scale Crystal-Less MICS Transceiver for Insertable Smart Pills

This paper presents a millimeter-scale crystal-less wireless transceiver for volume-constrained insertable pills. Operating in the 402-405 MHz medical implant communication service (MICS) band, the phase-tracking receiver-based over-the-air carrier recovery has a ±160 ppm coverage. A fully integrated adaptive antenna impedance matching solution is proposed to calibrate the antenna impedance variation inside the body. A tunable matching network (TMN) with single inductor performs impedance matching for both transmitter (TX) and receiver (RX) and TX/RX mode switching. To dynamically calibrate the antenna impedance variation over different locations and diet conditions, a loop-back power detector using self-mixing is adopted, which expands the power contour up to 4.8 VSWR. The transceiver is implemented in a 40-nm CMOS technology, occupying 2 mm² die area. The transceiver chip and a miniature antenna are integrated in a 3.5 × 15 mm² area prototype wireless module. It has a receiver sensitivity of -90 dBm at 200 kbps data rate and delivers up to - 25 dBm EIRP in the wireless measurement with a liquid phantom.

Successful endoscopic treatment of a large impacted gallstone in the duodenum using laser lithotripsy, Bouveret’s syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND

Bouveret´s syndrome is defined as a gastric outlet obstruction after passage of a gallstone through a fistula into the duodenum. Due to its rarity, the diagnosis of Bouveret’s syndrome is often delayed and causes a high morbidity and mortality rate.

CASE SUMMARY

A 93-year-old female presented with worsening pain in the right upper abdomen and vomiting. A gastroscopy revealed fluid retention caused by a massive obstructive stone in the bulbus. Endoscopic laser lithotripsy of the impacted stone was planned after multidisciplinary consultation. A Dornier Medilas H Solvo lithotripsy 350 µm laser fiber (10 Hz, 2 Joules) was used to disintegrate the stone into smaller pieces. The patient recovered completely.

CONCLUSION

A mechanical obstruction due to a gallstone that has entered the gastrointestinal tract is a complication that appears in 0.3%-0.5% of patients who have cholelithiasis. Stones larger than 2 cm can become impacted in the digestive tract, which occurs mostly in the terminal ileum. In approximately 1%-3% of cases, the stones cause obstruction in the duodenum. This phenomenon is called Bouveret’s syndrome. As this condition is mostly observed in elderly individuals with multiple comorbidities, treatment by an open surgical approach is unsuitable. Endoscopic removal is the preferred technique. The benefit of using laser lithotripsy is the precise targeting of energy onto the stone with minimal tissue injury. Endoscopic laser lithotripsy is a safe and feasible treatment option for Bouveret’s syndrome.

Predictors of outcomes of endoscopic balloon dilatation in strictures after esophageal atresia repair: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) has become the first line of therapy for benign esophageal strictures (ESs); however, there are few publications about the predictive factors for the outcomes of this treatment.

AIM

To assess the predictive factors for the outcomes of EBD treatment for strictures after esophageal atresia (EA) repair.

METHODS

Children with anastomotic ES after thoracoscopic esophageal atresia repair treated by EBD from January 2012 to December 2016 were included. All procedures were performed under tracheal intubation and intravenous anesthesia using a three-grade controlled radial expansion balloon with gastroscopy. Outcomes were recorded and predictors of the outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 64 patients were included in this analysis. The rates of response, complications, and recurrence were 96.77%, 8.06%, and 2.33%, respectively. The number of dilatation sessions and complications were significantly higher in patients with a smaller stricture diameter (P = 0.013 and 0.023, respectively) and with more than one stricture (P = 0.014 and 0.004, respectively). The length of the stricture was significantly associated with complications of EBD (P = 0.001). A longer interval between surgery and the first dilatation was related to more sessions and a poorer response (P = 0.017 and 0.024, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The diameter, length, and number of strictures are the most important predictive factors for the clinical outcomes of endoscopic balloon dilatation in pediatric ES. The interval between surgery and the first EBD is another factor affecting response and the number of sessions of dilatation.

Efficacy and safety of full-thickness resection device based on over-the-scope clip system for resecting of gastric lesions in selected patients. Case series from a referral center for gastrointestinal diseases treatment and literature overview

Since gastroduodenal FTRD system is commercially available, several data have been reported in Literature concerning duodenal full-thickness resections, whereas few cases of gastric full-thickness resections has been described. In this case series We report three patients treated with this innovative tool for resecting lesions of the gastric wall. The indications ranged notably: a neuroendocrine tumor in a difficult to treat environment in the first case, a recurrent adenocarcinoma in a poorly surgical candidate patient in the second case and a pre-pyloric lesion for the third patient. In the third patient, a complete pyloric stenosis due to the clip deployment occurred. Clinical success rate was 100%. Even if current Literature is still poor of articles dealing with gastric full-thickness resection device based on over-the-scope-clip system. Our case series show how this novel tool might be take into consideration for whenever both surgery and standard endoscopic resection techniques are poorly feasible.

Endobronchial foreign body removal using fiberoptic bronchoscope together with gastroscope biopsy forceps: A case report

RATIONALE

There are many difficult cases in the clinic because of the diversity of foreign bodies. The removal of a syringe cap is not so easy because there is always no hole at the closed end.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 54-year-old man suddenly developed dyspnea during his treatment in the hospital.

DIAGNOSES

Foreign body in the left main bronchus.

INTERVENTIONS

The foreign body was removed using fiberoptic bronchoscope together with gastroscope biopsy forceps.

OUTCOMES

A repeat CT showed well inflation of left lung.

LESSONS

The combined use of gastroscope biopsy forceps in trachea is more conducive to remove a foreign body similar to a syringe cap.

Modified laser-based photodynamic endoscopic diagnosis for early gastric cancer

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Performance of disposable endoscopic forceps according to the manufacturing techniques

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Recently, to lower the production costs and risk of infection, new disposable biopsy forceps made using simple manufacturing techniques have been introduced. However, the effects of the manufacturing techniques are unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate which types of biopsy forceps could obtain good-quality specimens according to the manufacturing techniques.

METHODS

By using an in vitro nitrile glove popping model, we compared the popping ability among eight different disposable biopsy forceps (one pair of biopsy forceps with cups made by a cutting method [cutting forceps], four pairs of biopsy forceps with cups made by a pressing method [pressing forceps], and three pairs of biopsy forceps with cups made using a injection molding method [molding forceps]). Using an in vivo swine model, we compared the penetration depth and quality of specimen among the biopsy forceps.

RESULTS

In the in vitro model, the molding forceps provided a significantly higher popping rate than the other forceps (cutting forceps, 25.0%; pressing forceps, 17.5%; and molding forceps, 41.7%; p = 0.006). In the in vivo model, the cutting and pressing forceps did not provide larger specimens, deeper biopsy specimen, and higher specimen adequacy than those obtained using the molding forceps (p = 0.2631, p = 0.5875, and p = 0.2147, respectively). However, the molding forceps showed significantly more common crush artifact than the others (cutting forceps, 0%; pressing forceps, 5.0%; and molding forceps, 43.3%; p = 0.0007).

CONCLUSION

The molding forceps provided lower performance than the cutting and pressing forceps in terms of crush artifact.

A clinically translatable hyperspectral endoscopy (HySE) system for imaging the gastrointestinal tract

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) enables visualisation of morphological and biochemical information, which could improve disease diagnostic accuracy. Unfortunately, the wide range of image distortions that arise during flexible endoscopy in the clinic have made integration of HSI challenging. To address this challenge, we demonstrate a hyperspectral endoscope (HySE) that simultaneously records intrinsically co-registered hyperspectral and standard-of-care white light images, which allows image distortions to be compensated computationally and an accurate hyperspectral data cube to be reconstructed as the endoscope moves in the lumen. Evaluation of HySE performance shows excellent spatial, spectral and temporal resolution and high colour fidelity. Application of HySE enables: quantification of blood oxygenation levels in tissue mimicking phantoms; differentiation of spectral profiles from normal and pathological ex vivo human tissues; and recording of hyperspectral data under freehand motion within an intact ex vivo pig oesophagus model. HySE therefore shows potential for enabling HSI in clinical endoscopy.

Early gastric cancer diagnostic ability of ultrathin endoscope loaded with laser light source

BACKGROUND

Conventionally, the low luminous intensity, low image resolution, and difficulty in operation have been reported with the ultrathin endoscope. However, it has markedly advanced recently. The improvement of the diagnostic ability is expected.

AIM

To compare the early gastric cancer diagnostic ability of an ultrathin endoscope loaded with a laser light source and that of the conventional endoscope.

METHODS

The target subjects were 375 consecutive patients who underwent endoscopy at our hospital for post-endoscopic submucosal dissection follow-up of gastric cancer from January to August 2018. During endoscopy, the ultrathin endoscope was used in 140 patients (37.3%), and the conventional endoscope was used in 235 patients (62.7%). Patient background was adjusted using the propensity score matching method, and gastric cancer detection ability was evaluated in the two groups.

RESULTS

The gastric cancer detection rate was 7.8% in the ultrathin endoscope group and 7.0% in the conventional endoscope group, and the mean intragastric observation time was 4.1 ± 1.7 min in the ultrathin endoscope group and 4.1 ± 1.9 min in the conventional endoscope group, showing no significant differences between the groups. Moreover, the biopsy implementation rate was 31.8% in the ultrathin endoscope group and 41.1% in the conventional endoscope group, and the biopsy prediction rate was 17.9% and 13.2%, respectively, showing no significant differences between the groups.

CONCLUSION

The gastric cancer diagnostic ability of the ultrathin endoscope loaded with a laser light source was comparable to that of the conventional endoscope. The observation time was also comparable. Thus, endoscopy using the ultrathin endoscope loaded with the laser light source would be the first option in screening examinations of gastric cancer due to its low invasion.

[Establishment and clinical application of modified endoscopic freka trelumina placement]

OBJECTIVE

To establish a modified endoscopic Freka Trelumina placement (mEFTP) for modifying or substituting the traditional endoscopic Freka Trelumina placement (EFTP) and to explore the safety and feasibility of mEFTP in patients requiring enteral nutrition and gastrointestinal decompression in general surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of patients undergoing EFTP or mEFTP at General Surgery Department of 920 Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army from January 2016 to January 2018.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

the function of lower digestive tract was normal; patients who could not eat through mouth or nasogastric tube needed to have enteral nutrition and gastrointestinal decompression; the retention time of Freka Trelumina (FT) was not expected to exceed 2 months.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

contraindication for gastroscopy; suspected shock or digestive tract perforation; suspected mental diseases; infectious diseases of digestive tract; thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm. mEFIP procedure was as follow. FT was inserted into stomach through one side nasal cavity, gastroscope was inserted into stomach cavity, and the front part of FT was clamped with biopsy forceps through biopsy hole. Biopsy forceps and FT were inserted into the pylorus or anastomosis under gastroscope, and they were pushed into the duodenum or output loop. During pushing, the gastroscope did not pass through the duodenum or output loop. The biopsy forceps was released and pushed out, and FT was pushed with biopsy forceps synchronously into the duodenum or output loop more than 5 cm. The foreign body forceps was inserted through the biopsy hole, and the FT tube was held in the stomach and pushed to the duodenum or output loop. The previous steps repeated until the suction cavity reached the pylorus or anastomosis. The gastroscope was exited gently; the guide wire was pulled out slowly. EFTP procedure: foreign body forceps was used to clamp the front part of FT, and gastroscope, foreign body forceps and FT pass the pylorus or anastomosis simultaneously to reach the descendent duodenum or output loop as a whole. The time of catheterization was recorded and position of FT was examined by X-ray within 1 h after catheterization. The success rate of catheterization and morbidity of complications after catheterization were evaluated and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

A total of 141 patients were enrolled, 72 in the mEFTP group and 69 in the EFTP group. In mEFTP group, 45 cases were males and 27 were females with an average age of 55.8(37-76) years; 27 cases had normal upper gastrointestinal anatomy (postoperative gastroplegia syndrome due to colon cancer in 17 cases, due to rectal cancer in 10 cases) and 45 had upper gastrointestinal anatomic changes (gastric cancer with pylorus obstruction in 18 cases and anastomotic block after gastroenterostomy in 27 cases). In the EFTP group, 41 were males and 28 were females with an average age of 55.3(36-79) years; 33 cases had normal upper gastrointestinal anatomy (postoperative gastroplegia syndrome due to colon cancer in 20 cases, due to rectal cancer in 13 cases) and 36 had upper gastrointestinal anatomic changes (gastric cancer with pylorus obstruction in 15 cases and anastomotic block after gastroenterostomy in 21 cases). In patients with normal upper digestive tract anatomy, the average catheterization time of mEFTP was (4.9±1.7) minutes which was shorter than (7.6±1.7) minutes of EFTP(t=6.683, P<0.001). In patients of gastric cancer with pyloric obstruction, the average catheterization time of mEFTP was (6.6±1.6) minutes which was shorter than (10.5±2.6) minutes of EFTP (t=4.724, P<0.001). In patients with anastomotic block after gastroenterostomy, the average catheterization time of mEFTP was (11.3±2.5) minutes which was shorter than (15.1±3.5) minutes of EFTP (t=4.513, P<0.001). In patients with normal upper gastrointestinal anatomy, there were no significant differences in the success rate of catheterization and the morbidity of catheterization complication between mEFTP and EFTP (all P>0.05). In patients with upper gastrointestinal anatomic changes, the success rate of catheterization in mEFTP was even higher than that in EFTP, but the difference was not significant [97.8%(41/45) vs. 86.1%(31/36), χ²=2.880, P=0.089]; while the morbidity of catheterization complication in mEFTP was lower than that in EFTP [0 vs. 8.3%(3/36), χ²=3.894, P=0.048].

CONCLUSIONS

Whether the upper gastrointestinal anatomy is normal or not, mEFTP presents shorter catheterization time, higher success catheterization rate than EFTP, and is safety. mEFTP can be widely applied to clinical practice for patients requiring enteral nutrition and gastrointestinal decompression.

Self-expandable metal stents in patients with postoperative delayed gastric emptying after distal gastrectomy

AIM

To investigate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic stent insertion in patients with delayed gastric emptying after gastrectomy.

METHODS

In this study, we prospectively collected data from patients who underwent stent placement for delayed gastric emptying (DGE) after distal gastrectomy between June 2010 and April 2017, at a tertiary referral academic center. Clinical improvement, complications, and consequences after stent insertion were analyzed.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in all patients (100%). Early symptom improvement was observed in 15 of 20 patients (75%) and clinical success was achieved in all patients. Mean follow-up period was 1178.3 ± 844.1 d and median stent maintenance period was 51 d (range 6-2114 d). During the follow-up period, inserted stents were passed spontaneously per rectum without any complications in 14 of 20 patients (70%). Symptom improvement was maintained after stent placement without the requirement of any additional intervention in 19 of 20 patients (95%).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic stent placement provides prompt relief of obstructive symptoms. Thus, it can be considered an effective and safe salvage technique for post-operative DGE.

The prepurse-string suture technique for gastric defect after endoscopic full-thickness resection (with video)

Endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) is the main treatment for gastric tumors originating from the muscularis propria or gastric extra-luminal growth tumors. Successful closure of the gastric wall defect is a critical step during EFTR.The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of the endoscopic prepurse-string suture (p-EPSS) technique using an endoloop and several metallic clips during EFTR to close the perforation.Twenty-five patients with gastric tumors originated from the muscularis propria or with gastric extra-luminal growth tumors who received EFTR were analyzed at the Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from June 2016 to May 2017. Patient characteristics, tumor characteristics, operation time length, and postoperative complications were evaluated in all patients.All the 25 patients underwent a successful EFTR. Complete closure of gastric defects was also achieved. The mean operation time length was 31 ± 14 minutes. The mean maximum size of tumor of was 1.7 ± 1.0 cm (range 0.5-4.5 cm). No severe postoperative complications occurred, such as massive bleeding, gastric leak, peritonitis, or abdominal abscess. No patient needed surgical intervention. Wounds were well healed 1 month after EFTR. No tumor metastasis and recurrence were observed during the follow-up period (median, 7 months).The p-EPSS technique using endoloop and several sterile repositionable hemostasis clips is safe and feasible for closing gastric perforation during EFTR.

How to improve success rates of endoscopic management for buried bumper syndrome

BACKGROUND

Buried bumper syndrome (BBS) is a rare complication of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. Complete BBS without visible parts of the inner bumper is a challenge for endoscopic treatment.

METHODS AND AIMS

Data base analysis of all procedures performed at our tertiary university endoscopy center between 2000 and 2015 was conducted. Our aim was to improve the success rates of endoscopic treatment using a standardized approach and a pull-modification of the papillotome-based extraction technique in a prospective cohort.

RESULTS

Retrospectively, 55 patients were identified (37 men; age 54 ± 16 years). The prospective series comprised 11 patients (8 men; age 63 ± 27 years). Patients with partial BBS were effectively treated by endoscopy in both cohorts (24/25 and 4/4 patients, respectively). For complete BBS (Cyrany grade 3), success rates of endoscopic therapy differed significantly between the cohorts (P = 0.017). In the retrospective cohort, only 38% of patients (9/24 patients) were successfully treated. In the prospective cohort, all six patients (deep-type in five cases) were managed without complications. Patients with extra-gastric tubes underwent primary surgery in both cohorts (six and one patients, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A structured approach improved success rates of endoscopic treatment. All patients with an internal bumper verified to lie within the gastric wall can be treated by an experienced investigator using a papillotome-based technique.

Laparogastroscopy and Esophageal Stenosis

PURPOSE

An original technique using laparoscopic instruments in a gastric endocavitary work chamber with potential for esophagus, stomach and D1 vizualisation. The main purpose of laparagastroscopy is to improve the quality of life of the patient disabling by the esophageal tumor. This method has several advantages: providing physiological feeding, harvesting materials for histopathological examination, solving eso-tracheal fistulas concurrently with the proposed operation and hemostatic role through compression, low energy and plastic consumption, rapid socio-economic reintegration, mental psychological care of the patient. Patients and Methods: The paper deals with 162 cases with different tumors of the esophagus, patients with different grades of esophageal stenosis, different stages of esophageal neoplasm. Both the patients with eso-tracheal fistulas and those with gastro- or jejunostoma were included. Results: From 162 cases, 33 cases (20%) with cervical esophageal neoplasm, 66 (41%) cases with thoracic esophageal neoplasm and 63 (39%) cases with abdominal esophageal neoplasm. The histopathological type is 37% adenocarcinomas and 63% squamous carcinomas. From total number of cases, 87 (54%) had no metastasis, and 75 (46%) had secondary determinations. The most frequent localization of metastasis was pulmonary, followed by liver (Fig. 1) and bone. The analysis of this intervention has shown that complications have been much lower both in terms of their numerical value and their severity, a longer survival time with a much higher satisfaction index is ensured.

CONCLUSION

Esophageal endoprosthesis (EPE) through laparagastroscopic approach should be a a reserve procedure instead of a disabling gastrostomy or jejunostomy. EPE is an extremely effective procedure specially by keeping the physiology of food bowl. The approach is minimally invasive with minimal attack on the body with significant plastic and aesthetic reductions. This procedure allows the prosthesis to be viewed both during and after stenting to check its correct position. This method increases the survival time by keeping a relatively normal regimen.

Novel concept of endoscopic device delivery station system for rapid and tight attachment of polyglycolic acid sheet

AIM

To evaluate appropriate and rapid polyglycolic acid sheet (PGAs) covering time using device delivery station system (DDSS).

METHODS

This pilot basic study was conducted to evaluate the potential of accurate and rapid PGAs delivery using DDSS. Three 11-mo-old female Beagle dogs were used in this study. Two endoscopic submucosal dissections (ESDs) 4cm in diameter were performed in lesser curvature of middle gastric body and greater curvature of antrum (total 6 ESDs performed). DDSS (3 cm length, 12 mm in outer diameter) has 2 chambers which 16 cm² large 2 PGAs were stored, and DDSS was attached post ESD ulcers, respectively. Beriplast P^® (CSL Behring K.K., Tokyo, Japan) (combination of fibrin glue and thrombin) was applied equally to the artificial ulcer, and tight attachment of 2 PGAs with DDSS were completed. The evaluation items were covering times, post ESD bleeding and perforation during ESD.

RESULTS

The covering time of PGAs (defined as the duration from the beginning of endoscope insertion into the mouth to the end of the fibrin glue coating process) was 6.07 (4.86-8.29) min. There was no post-ESD bleeding (1-7 d after ESD), and there was no perforation during ESD.

CONCLUSION

DDSS was very useful for rapid delivering and tight attachment of PGAs, and has potentials of multi-purpose delivery station system.

Comparison of totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy using an endoscopic linear stapler with laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy using a circular stapler in patients with gastric cancer: A single-center experience

AIM

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy (TLTG) with esophagojejunostomy using a linear stapler compared with laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy (LATG) using a circular stapler in gastric cancer patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 687 patients who underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy for gastric cancer at a single institution from August 2008 to August 2014. The patients were divided into two groups according to the type of operation: 421 patients underwent TLTG and 266 underwent LATG. Clinicopathologic characteristics and surgical outcomes in the two groups were compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

The TLTG group had higher mean ages at the time of operation (57.78 ± 11.20 years and 55.69 ± 11.96 years, P = 0.020) and more histories of abdominal surgery (20.2% and 12.4%, P = 0.008) compared with the LATG group. Surgical outcomes such as intraoperative and postoperative transfusions, combined operations, pain scores and administration of analgesics, and complications were similar between the two groups. However, compared with the LATG group, the TLTG group required a shorter operation time (149 min vs 170 min, P < 0.001), had lower postoperative hematocrit change (3.49% vs 4.04%, P = 0.002), less intraoperative events (3.1% vs 10.2%, P < 0.001), less intraoperative anastomosis events (2.4% vs 7.1%, P = 0.003), faster postoperative recovery such as median time to first flatus (3.30 d vs 3.60 d, P < 0.001), faster median commencement of soft diet (4.30 d vs 4.60 d, P < 0.001) and shorter length of postoperative hospital stay (6.75 d vs 7.02 d, P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

The intracorporeal method for reconstruction of esophagojejunostomy using a linear stapler may be considered a feasible procedure comparing with extracorporeal anastomosis using circular stapler because TLTG is simpler and more straightforward than LATG. Therefore, TLTG can be recommended as an appropriate procedure for gastric cancer.

Advances in endoscopic balloon therapy for weight loss and its limitations

The field of medical and surgical weight loss is undergoing an explosion of new techniques and devices. A lot of these are geared towards endoscopic approaches rather than the conventional and more invasive laparoscopic or open approach. One such recent advance is the introduction of intrgastric balloons. In this article, we discuss the recently Food and Drug Administration approved following balloons for weight loss: the Orbera™ Intragastric Balloon System (Apollo Endosurgery Inc, Austin, TX, United States), the ReShape^® Integrated Dual Balloon System (ReShape Medical, Inc., San Clemente, CA, United States), and the Obalon (Obalon^® Therapeutics, Inc.). The individual features of each of these balloons, the method of introduction and removal, and the expected weight loss and possible complications are discussed. This review of the various balloons highlights the innovation in the field of weight loss.

Procedure-related complications in gastric variceal obturation with tissue glue

AIM

To focus on procedure-related complications, evaluate their incidence, analyze the reasons and discuss the solutions.

METHODS

Overall, 628 endoscopic gastric variceal obturation (EGVO) procedures (case-times) with NBC were performed in 519 patients in the Department of Endoscopy of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University from January 2011 to December 2016. The clinical data of patients and procedure-related complications of EGVO were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

In the 628 EGVO procedures, sticking of the needle to the varix occurred in 9 cases (1.43%), including 1 case that used lipiodol-diluted NBC and 8 cases that used undiluted NBC (P = 0.000). The needle was successfully withdrawn in 8 cases. Large spurt bleeding occurred in one case, and hemostasis was achieved by two other injections of undiluted glue. The injection catheter became blocked in 17 cases (2.71%) just during the injection, and 4 cases were complicated with the needle sticking to the varix. Large glue adhesion to the endoscope resulted in difficulty withdrawing the endoscope in 1 case. Bleeding from multiple sites was observed in the esophagus and gastric cardia after the endoscope was withdrawn. Hemostasis was achieved by 1% aethoxysklerol injection and intravenous somatostatin. The ligation device stuck to the varices in two cases during the subsequent endoscopic variceal ligation. In one case, the ligation device was successfully separated from the esophageal varix after all bands were released. In another case, a laceration of the vein and massive bleeding were observed. The bleeding ceased after 1% aethoxysklerol injection.

CONCLUSION

Although EGVO with tissue glue is usually safe and effective, a series of complications can occur during the procedure that may puzzle endoscopists. There is no standard operating procedure for addressing these complications. The cases described in the current study can provide some reference for others.

In vivo histological diagnosis for gastric cancer using endocytoscopy

AIM

To examine usefulness of virtual biopsy using endocytoscopy by comparing the in vivo endocytoscopic and histopathological images of gastric cancers.

METHODS

Endocytoscopy was performed in 30 patients with early gastric cancer. Of these, 26 patients showed well differentiated adenocarcinomas, while 4 patients showed poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas (including one signet ring cell carcinoma). Cancerous and non-cancerous areas were observed after double staining with 0.05% crystal violet and 0.1% methylene blue. The endocytoscopic images obtained were evaluated by an expert endoscopist and an expert pathologist without knowledge of patient clinical data, and endocytoscopic and histopathological diagnoses were compared.

RESULTS

The endocytoscopic images of the cancerous area were assessed as evaluable in 25 (83.3%) and 27 (90%) patients by endoscopist A and pathologist B, respectively, and those of the non-cancerous area as evaluable in 28 (93.3%) and 23 (76.7%) patients by the endoscopist and pathologist, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of gastric cancer diagnosis using evaluable endocytoscopic images were 88.0% and 92.9%, and 90.6% by endoscopist A, and 88.9% and 91.3%, and 90.0% by pathologist B, respectively. Evaluation of the diagnostic concordance rate between the endoscopist and the pathologist by inter-observer agreement calculation revealed no significant difference between the two observers. The inter-observer agreement (κ-value) for endocytoscopic diagnosis was 0.745.

CONCLUSION

Endocytoscopy is useful for the differentiation of cancerous from non-cancerous gastric mucosa, making it a promising tool for virtual biopsy.

A case report of blunt gastric perforation treated with endoscopic clip closure

RATIONALE

Gastroscopymay not only allow identification of gastric injury, but may also facilitate prompt repair.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 39-year-old male patient was admitted 3 hours after abdominal injury caused by penetration of a screwdriver. Physical examination and computed tomography showed no evidence of gastric injury. However, 3000 mL fresh blood was vomited during the subsequent observation period.

DIAGNOSES

Gastroscopy identified a ruptured artery and gastric perforation.

INTERVENTIONS

Repaired immediately using titanium clips.

OUTCOMES

After operation, the patient recovered well without complications. No more bleeding was observed after the operation.

LESSON SUBSECTIONS ASPER STYLE

Interventional endoscopy has evolved as an effective alternative to primary surgery for treating gastrointestinal perforation.

[THE PROGNOSTIC FACTORS ANALYSIS FOR THE REPEATED DEVELOPMENT OF GASTRIC POLYPS AFTER ENDOSCOPIC POLYPECTOMY]

There were analyzed the results of treatment of 1450 patients, to whom in surgical departments of Lugansk Regional Clinical Hospital the elective endoscopic polypectomy for solitary and multiple gastric polyps, premalignant changes, was conducted. The unfavorable prognosis signs, trustworthily impacting the gastric polyps reoccurring, were considered: quantity of gastric polyps, their dimensions, localization and presence of mucosal erosions. Reoccurrence of majority of the polyps in gastric antrum may be due to microcirculatory disorders, present in their mucosa.

Portable disposable ultrathin endoscopy tested through percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

BACKGROUND

A portable disposable ultrathin endoscope (DUE) with high visual quality and maneuverability would reduce the need for expensive facilities and emergency endoscopy could be available anywhere. It would increase patient satisfaction, prevent unnecessary sedation, and reduce infection. Our aim was to evaluate the usefulness of portable DUE in performing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG).

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled patients who underwent PEG under DUE guidance and compared them with historical controls who underwent PEG under conventional ultrathin endoscopy (CUE) guidance. The primary outcomes were successful stomach visualization and PEG tube insertion.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients (19 male) were enrolled and compared with 25 gender and indication-matched controls. The most common indications for PEG were aspiration due to stroke or brain injury, dementia, and head and neck cancer. Entrance into the stomach was achieved in 92.0% (23/25) and 96% (24/25) in the DUE and CUE groups, and PEG was performed in 91.3% (21/23) and 95.8% (23/24), respectively. The mean insertion time for the DUE and CUE groups were 22.7 ± 9.3 minutes and 17.1 ± 5.7 minutes (P = 0.044). The 3 cases of failure to reach the stomach in both groups were caused by esophageal blockage. The 3 cases of failed PEG tube insertion were caused by poor visualization of the insertion site. Bleeding and pneumoperitoneum occurred in 1 and 2 patients in the DUE group. One case of fever was noted in the CUE group. All adverse events were conservatively managed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that portable DUE in facilities without endoscopy equipment may be clinically feasible.

[Endoscopic treatment of obesity and complications following bariatric surgery]

The prevalence of obesity in the population has been increasing for many years. Due to associated comorbidities the treatment of obesity is becoming more important. Conservative treatment alone is often unsuccessful, particularly in cases of severe obesity. In these cases, multimodal therapy in specialized treatment units is warranted. Between conservative treatment and bariatric surgery, interventional endoscopic treatment options also play an increasing role. Nowadays, implantation of gastric balloons and duodenojejunal bypass liners (EndoBarrier) are the most often used endoscopic options. A further typical application of endoscopy in the treatment of obesity is the management of complications after bariatric surgery, such as stenosis and insufficiency. This article gives an overview on the currently available endoscopic options associated with treatment of obesity.

Endoscopic en bloc resection of an exophytic gastrointestinal stromal tumor with suction excavation technique

Here, we report the first successful endoscopic resection of an exophytic gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) using a novel perforation-free suction excavation technique. A 49-year-old woman presented for further management of a gastric subepithelial tumor on the lesser curvature of the lower body, originally detected via routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Abdominal computed tomography and endoscopic ultrasound showed a 4-cm extraluminally protruding mass originating from the muscularis propria layer. The patient firmly refused surgical resection owing to potential cardiac problems, and informed consent was obtained for endoscopic removal. Careful dissection and suction of the tumor was repeated until successful extraction was achieved without serosal injury. We named this procedure the suction excavation technique. The tumor’s dimensions were 3.5 cm × 2.8 cm × 2.5 cm. The tumor was positive for C-KIT and CD34 by immunohistochemical staining. The mitotic count was 6/50 high-power fields. The patient was followed for 5 years without tumor recurrence. This case demonstrated the use of endoscopic resection of an exophytic GIST using the suction excavation technique as a potential therapy without surgical resection.

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty: How I Do It?

BACKGROUND

Primary endoscopic weight loss therapies are of interest for access, simplicity, and economy. The objective of this manuscript is to describe the endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty used in 50 patients.

METHODS

The goal of this procedure is to reduce the gastric lumen into a tubular configuration, with the greater curvature modified by a line of sutured plications. General anesthesia with endotracheal intubation is needed. An endoscopic suturing system requiring a specific double-channel endoscope delivers full-thickness sets of running sutures from the antrum to the fundus. Patients are admitted and observed, with discharge planned within 24 h. Post-procedure outpatient care includes diet instruction with intensive follow-up by a multidisciplinary team. Voluntary oral contrast and endoscopy studies are scheduled to assess the gastroplasty at 3, 6, and 12 months.

RESULTS

The technique was applied in 50 patients (13 men) with an average body mass index (BMI) of 37.7 kg/m(2) (range 30-47) with 13 having reached 1 year. Procedure duration averaged 66 min during which six to eight sutures on average were placed. All patients were discharged in less than 24 h. There were no major intra-procedural, early, or delayed adverse events. Weight loss parameters were satisfactory, mean BMI changes from 37.7 ± 4.6 to 30.9 ± 5.1 kg/m(2) at 1 year, and mean %TBWL was 19.0 ± 10.8. Oral contrast studies and endoscopy revealed sleeve gastroplasty configuration at least until 1 year of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a safe, effective, and reproducible primary weight loss technique.

Comparison of O-Type HybridKnife to Conventional Knife in Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Gastric Mucosal Lesions

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been accepted as a minimal invasive alternative to surgery for localized superficial gastrointestinal neoplasms recently. However, the procedure remains to be technically challenging and time consuming. A new dissecting knife with partially insulated tip has been recently developed with built-in injection capability. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the efficiency of ESD procedure could be improved with this new device. A total of 78 patients, who underwent ESD with gastric mucosal lesions including flat type polyps, adenoma or early gastric cancer, were randomly assigned to either ESD with O-type HybridKnife or conventional ESD knives without waterjet. Procedure time and related factors of ESD were analyzed. ESD procedure time was 43.0 (interquartile range, IQR 27.0-60.0) minutes in HybridKnife group compared to 60.5 (IQR 44.0-86.3) minutes in the control group (P = 0.001). There was no difference in the clinical outcome and the adverse event rate. The former demonstrated more favorable results in lesions ≤4 cm of specimen size (P ≤ 0.0001) and when located in the distal stomach (P = 0.001), also in lesions with fibrosis (P = 0.008). Multivariate regression analysis showed that O-type Knife (P ≤ 0.0001), specimen size (P ≤ 0.0001), and fibrosis (P ≤ 0.0001) were independent predictors of procedure time. The O-type HybridKnife yielded faster procedure time compared to the conventional knives in gastric ESD with a similar safety profile.

Buried bumper syndrome: A complication of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a widely used method of nutrition delivery for patients with long-term insufficiency of oral intake. The PEG complication rate varies from 0.4% to 22.5% of cases, with minor complications being three times more frequent. Buried bumper syndrome (BBS) is a severe complication of this method, in which the internal fixation device migrates alongside the tract of the stoma outside the stomach. Excessive compression of tissue between the external and internal fixation device of the gastrostomy tube is considered the main etiological factor leading to BBS. Incidence of BBS is estimated at around 1% (0.3%-2.4%). Inability to insert, loss of patency and leakage around the PEG tube are considered to be a typical symptomatic triad. Gastroscopy is indicated in all cases in which BBS is suspected. The depth of disc migration in relation to the lamina muscularis propria of the stomach is critical for further therapy and can be estimated by endoscopic or transabdominal ultrasound. BBS can be complicated by gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, peritonitis, intra-abdominal and abdominal wall abscesses, or phlegmon, and these complications can lead to fatal outcomes. The most important preventive measure is adequate positioning of the external bolster. A conservative approach should be applied only in patients with high operative risk and dismal prognosis. Choice of the method of release is based on the type of the PEG set and depth of disc migration. A disc retained inside the stomach and completely covered by the overgrowing tissue can be released using some type of endoscopic dissection technique (needle knife, argon plasma coagulation, or papillotome through the cannula). Proper patient selection and dissection of the overgrowing tissue are the major determinants for successful endoscopic therapy. A disc localized out of the stomach (lamina muscularis propria) should be treated by a surgeon.

A novel gastroscope intervention mechanism with circumferentially pneumatic-driven clamping function

Robotic assisted gastroscope delivery could solve various problems like understaffing, radiation and infection risk. The friction rollers commonly used in the few existed systems for traditional flexible endoscope, however, has potential risk of destroying scopes for non-uniform clamping. This research develops a novel gastroscope intervention mechanism (GIM) with a specially designed airbag. It evenly clamps the gastroscope with circumferential uniform pneumatic pressure. The GIM realizes axial and radial motion by means of the relay delivery mode similar to clinician's operation. The critical slipping force at different air pressure was analyzed to provide guidelines for safe intervention. Experiments were performed to evaluate the delivery accuracy and velocity and measure the critical slipping force. The results showed the axial and radial accuracy for delivery are 0.025±0.2mm and -0.03±0.25deg, respectively. The average velocity of 6.00mm·s(-1) and 75 deg·s(-1) were achieved to push/pull and twist the gastroscope. The relationship between the critical slipping force and air pressure could be fitted with a quadratic polynomial.

Self-expandable metal stents for malignant gastric outlet obstruction: A pooled analysis of prospective literature

AIM: To provide an overview of the clinical outcomes of self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement for malignant gastric outlet obstruction (MGOO).

METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed of the literature published between January 2009 and March 2015. Only prospective studies that reported on the clinical success of stent placement for MGOO were included. The primary endpoint was clinical success, defined according to the definition used in the original article. Data were pooled and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Subgroup analyses were performed for partially covered SEMSs (PCSEMSs) and uncovered SEMSs (UCSEMSs) using Fisher’s exact test.

RESULTS: A total of 19 studies, including 1281 patients, were included in the final analysis. Gastric (42%) and pancreatic (37%) cancer were the main causes of MGOO. UCSEMSs were used in 76% of patients and PCSEMSs in 24%. The overall pooled technical success rate was 97.3% and the clinical success rate was 85.7%. Stent dysfunction occurred in 19.6% of patients, mainly caused by re-obstruction (12.6%) and stent migration (4.3%), and was comparable between PCSEMSs and UCSEMSs (21.2% vs 19.1%, respectively, P = 0.412). Re-obstruction was more common with UCSEMSs (14.9% vs 5.1%, P < 0.001) and stent migration was more frequent after PCSEMS placement (10.9% vs 2.2%, P < 0.001). The overall perforation rate was 1.2%. Bleeding was reported in 4.1% of patients, including major bleeding in 0.8%. The median stent patency ranged from 68 to 307 d in five studies. The median overall survival ranged from 49 to 183 d in 13 studies.

CONCLUSION: The clinical outcomes in this large population showed that enteral stent placement was feasible, effective and safe. Therefore, stent placement is a valid treatment option for the palliation of MGOO.

A case of gastric adenocarcinoma metastasis to the esophagus possibly caused by gastroscopy or gastric reflux

Recurrence after curative resection for gastric cancer is high, the pattern of recurrence include haematogenous metastasis, peritoneal metastasis, lymph node metastasis, and local recurrence, respectively. Here we report a case with local recurrence at the beginning, and subsequent metastasis to the esophagus three month following gastroscopy. Biopsy of the nodule in the upper esophagus was taken, pathology showed the adenocarcinoma of gastric origin. CT scanning showed no thickening of upper esophagus wall, suggesting there may not be intramural metastasis. The patient had proven gastroesophageal reflux, and the liner alignment of the lesion coexisted with the route of gastroscope insertion tube. Taken together, we suggest that the esophagus metastasis was most likely though implantation caused by gastroscopy or gastroesophageal reflux.

[Laparoscopic-Assisted Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy--Report of Three Cases]

Laparoscopic-assisted percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (LAPEG) was performed in consecutive three patients for whom it was unable to place a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). The mean operation time was 40.3 min, and mean blood loss was 1.3 g. Three trocars were placed, two for working and another for endoscopy, and a PEG was established by an usual Introducer method. There were no complications both intra- and post-operatively. LAPEG might be a safe alternative when the application of PEG is difficult.

Endoscopic treatment of gastroparesis

Gastroparesis has traditionally been a largely medically managed disease with refractory symptoms typically falling under the umbrella of the surgical domain. Surgical options include, but are not limited to, gastrostomy, jejunostomy, pyloromyotomy, or pyloroplasty, and the Food and Drug Administration approved gastric electrical stimulation implantation. Endoscopic management of gastroparesis most commonly involves intrapyloric botulinum toxin injection; however, there exists a variety of endoscopic approaches on the horizon that have the potential to radically shift standard of care. Endoscopic management of gastroparesis seeks to treat delayed gastric emptying with a less invasive approach compared to the surgical approach. This review will serve to highlight such innovative and potentially transformative, endoscopic interventions available to gastroenterologists in the management of gastroparesis.

Preliminary study of photodynamic diagnosis using 5-aminolevulinic acid in gastric and colorectal tumors

AIM: To investigate the utility of photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) using 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) to detect gastric/colorectal tumors.

METHODS: This prospective single-center study investigated inter-subject variability in patients with early-stage gastric/colorectal tumor indicated for endoscopic resection. Subjects were patients with gastric or colorectal tumors who had undergone endoscopic resection between November 2012 and November 2013. Selection criteria included age 20-80 years, either sex, and provision of informed consent. Patients were orally administered 20 mg/kg of 5-ALA enteric-coated capsules (SBI ALApromo Co., Tokyo, Japan). Administration of 5-ALA was followed by endoscopic resection of gastric or colorectal tumors, and the resected specimens were examined using a video autofluorescence processor and a fluorescence endoscope (SAFE-3000 and EB-1970AK, respectively; Pentax, Tokyo, Japan). The primary endpoint was the presence of fluorescence in tumors. Endoscopic, macroscopic, and histopathologic findings of tumors were assessed. We also evaluated adverse events of the present procedure as a secondary endpoint and examined each patient for the presence of known adverse effects of 5-ALA, namely, hematocytopenia, liver dysfunction, hypotension, nausea, and photosensitivity.

RESULTS: We enrolled 10 patients (7 men, 3 women) (n = 13 lesions: 10 gastric/3 colorectal tumors). Fluorescence was detected in 7/13 (53.8%) lesions. No significant differences in sex (male: 55.6% vs female: 50.5%, P = 1.00), age (67.1 ± 1.9 years vs 65.0 ± 2.0 years, P = 0.45), tumor color (reddish: 60.0% vs discolored: 33.3%, P = 0.56), tumor diameter (15.0 ± 2.1 mm vs 14.2 ± 2.3 mm, P = 0.80), macroscopic type (protruded: 70.0% vs depressed 0%, P = 0.07), histologic type (differentiated type: 58.3% vs 0%, P = 0.46), invasion depth (mucosal layer: 55.6% vs submucosal layer: 33.3%, P = 1.00), lymphatic invasion (present: 33.3% vs absent: 50.0%, P = 1.00), venous invasion (present: 0% vs absent: 54.5%, P = 1.00) or procedure time of endoscopic resection (36.3 ± 8.3 min vs 36.7 ± 9.0 min, P = 0.98) were observed between the patients with and without fluorescence. Fluorescence detection rate tended to be high for elevated lesions. Liver dysfunction developed in 4/10 (40.0%) patients. The extent of the liver dysfunction was a slight increase in transaminases and total bilirubin levels, which spontaneously improved in the patients. None of the patients developed photosensitivity.

CONCLUSION: Results of this preliminary study suggest the utility of PDD using 5-ALA for screening of gastric and colorectal cancers.

In vivo gastric mucosal histopathology using endocytoscopy

AIM: To study the ability of endocytoscopy to identify normal gastric mucosa and to exclude Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

METHODS: Endocytoscopic examination of the gastric corpus and antrum was performed in 70 consecutive patients. Target biopsy specimens were also obtained from the assessed region and multiple H. pylori tests were performed. The normal endocytoscopy patterns of the corpus and antrum were divided into the normal pit-dominant type (n-Pit) or the normal papilla-dominant type (n-Pap), respectively characterized as either regular pits with capillary networks or round, smooth papillary structures with spiral capillaries. On the other hand, normal mucosa was defined as mucosa not demonstrating histological abnormalities, including inflammation and atrophy.

RESULTS: The sensitivity and specificity of n-Pit for normal mucosa in the gastric corpus were 94.4% and 97.1%, respectively, whereas those of n-Pap for normal mucosa in the antrum were 92.0% and 86.7%, respectively. The positive predictive values of n-Pit and n-Pap for H. pylori-negative tissue were 88.6% and 93.1%, respectively, and their negative predictive values for H. pylori-negative tissues were 42.9% and 41.5%, respectively. The inter-observer agreement for determining n-Pit and n-Pap for normal mucosa were 0.857 and 0.769, respectively, which is considered reliable.

CONCLUSION: N-Pit and n-Pap, seen using EC, are considered useful predictors of normal mucosa and the absence of H. pylori infection.

[Comparison of the Intracuff Pressure Increase by Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscope Insertion in TaperGuard Cuffed Tube and High-volume Low Pressure Cuffed Tracheal Tube: A Porcine Larynx Model Study]

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare the upper gastrointestinal endoscope (UGE) insertion-mediated cuff pressure increase between a tracheal tube with a tapered cuff (Taper) and or conventional high volume low pressure cuff (HVLP) utilizing a porcine larynx model.

METHODS

The automated cuff pressure was adjusted to 10, 20, and 30 cmH2O. The Taper and HVLP cuff pressure increases by UGE insertion were measured.

RESULTS

Significant cuff pressure increase was observed by UGE insertion regardless of initial cuff pressure. The cuff pressure of the Taper was significantly lower than that of the HVLP by UGE insertion.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the Taper may be more effective than the HVLP in preventing tracheal tube cuff increase by UGE insertion.

2-DOF auto-calibration for a 3D endoscope system based on active stereo

For endoscopic medical treatment, measuring the size and shape of lesions, such as tumors, is important. We are developing a 3D endoscope system to measure the shape and size of living tissues based on active stereo. In previous works, our group attached a pattern projector outside the endoscope head. Since this increased the diameter of the endoscope, the burden and the risks of the patients would increase. In this paper, we set the pattern projector inside the instrument channel of the endoscope instead of mounting it outside, so that it can be deployed whenever required. This does not increase the size of the endoscope and facilitates the measuring process. However, since the projector is not physically fixed to the endoscope anymore prior to the operation, we propose an "auto-calibration" technique where extrinsic parameters are calibrated intra-operatively from a point marker on the projector observed simultaneously on the target surface. In the experiment, we show that the external parameters were successfully calibrated to obtain 3D reconstructions properly with the overall systems. The accuracy of the auto-calibration was validated by confirming that the epipolar constraints were kept, and a 3D reconstruction of a human tissue was demonstrated.

[ENDOSCOPIC MUCOSAL RESECTION WITH SUBMUCOSAL DISSECTION ESD AND THE FIRST LONG-TERM RESULTS OF APPLYING THIS METHOD]

This review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of endoscopic mucosal resection with submucosal dissection ESD and the first long-term results of applying this method.

A new technique for endoscopic treatment of gastric phytobezoars: fragmentation using guidewire

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Bezoars result from accumulation of indigestible materials in the gastrointestinal tract and often occur in the stomach. In this study, we evaluated the use of guidewires in patients with gastric phytobezoars (PBs) as a new method for PB removal and examined the safety of the procedure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between February 2009 and January 2013, we analyzed data from 11 patients with gastric PBs. We fitted a transparent cap to a standard endoscope (EG450WR5, Fujinon), and a 0.025 inch guidewire was passed through the standart endoscope. PBs were surrounded by a loop in the guidewire and destroyed. After 2 weeks of treatment, patients were re-evaluated for effectiveness.

RESULTS

PB fragmentation time was 5-11 minutes. In five patients with a history of gastric surgery, we needed an additional 16-28 minutes for removal of the fragments. In six patients additionally treated with enzymatic degradation after the breaking procedure, PBs completely disappeared within 2 weeks. There were no complications during the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

The guidewire and fragmentation procedure for PBs is an efficient and reliable method. When combined with enzymatic degradation, PBs can be managed quickly and effectively.

Safety and efficacy of a partially covered self-expandable metal stent in benign pyloric obstruction

AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of partially covered self-expandable metallic stents (SEMSs) in benign pyloric obstruction.

METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed data from 10 consecutive patients with peptic ulcer-related pyloric obstructive symptoms (gastric outlet obstruction scoring system (GOOSS) score of 1) between March 2012 and September 2013. The patients were referred to and managed by partially covered SEMS insertion in our tertiary academic center. We assessed the technical success, symptom improvement, and adverse events after stenting.

RESULTS: Early symptoms were improved just 3 d after SEMS placement in all 10 patients. The GOOSS score of all patients improved from 1 to 3. There were no serious immediate adverse events. The overall rate of being symptom free was 90% at a median of 11 mo of follow-up (range: 4-43 mo). Five patients were managed by a rescue SEMS because of failure of previous endoscopic balloon dilatation. Among them, four patients had sustained symptom improvement after the SEMS procedure. During the follow-up period, migration of the SEMS was observed in two patients (20.0%), both of whom had previous endoscopic balloon dilatation before SEMS insertion.

CONCLUSION: Despite the small number in this study, partially covered SEMSs showed a favorable and safe outcome in the treatment of naïve benign pyloric obstruction and in salvage treatment after balloon dilatation failure.

Clinical value of miniprobe sonography for detection of esophageal submucosal lesions

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical value of catheter-based miniprobe sonography for diagnosis of esophageal submucosal lesions.

METHODS

A total of 199 patients with esophageal submucosal lesions underwent miniprobe sonography via gastroscopy. The sonograms were reviewed, and the sonographic findings were compared with pathologic findings from specimens obtained by endoscopic or surgical dissection.

RESULTS

The diagnoses for the 199 patients were as follows: 54 cysts, 58 leiomyomas, 25 stromal tumors, 26 venous aneurysms, 15 lipomas, and 21 extramural compressions. A total of 145 lesions were verified by surgery and pathologic examinations. The results for 139 lesions were confirmed by miniprobe sonography; 6 lesions were misdiagnosed. The diagnostic accuracy rate for miniprobe sonography was 95.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Miniprobe sonography can provide precise information about the size, location, border, and echogenicity of esophageal submucosal lesions. It has high diagnostic accuracy. Preoperative miniprobe sonography via gastroscopy may play an important role in the choice of therapy for esophageal submucosal lesions.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: Indications, technique, complications and management

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the preferred route of feeding and nutritional support in patients with a functional gastrointestinal system who require long-term enteral nutrition. Besides its well-known advantages over parenteral nutrition, PEG offers superior access to the gastrointestinal system over surgical methods. Considering that nowadays PEG tube placement is one of the most common endoscopic procedures performed worldwide, knowing its indications and contraindications is of paramount importance in current medicine. PEG tubes are sometimes placed inappropriately in patients unable to tolerate adequate oral intake because of incorrect and unrealistic understanding of their indications and what they can accomplish. Broadly, the two main indications of PEG tube placement are enteral feeding and stomach decompression. On the other hand, distal enteral obstruction, severe uncorrectable coagulopathy and hemodynamic instability constitute the main absolute contraindications for PEG tube placement in hospitalized patients. Although generally considered to be a safe procedure, there is the potential for both minor and major complications. Awareness of these potential complications, as well as understanding routine aftercare of the catheter, can improve the quality of care for patients with a PEG tube. These complications can generally be classified into three major categories: endoscopic technical difficulties, PEG procedure-related complications and late complications associated with PEG tube use and wound care. In this review we describe a variety of minor and major tube-related complications as well as strategies for their management and avoidance. Different methods of percutaneous PEG tube placement into the stomach have been described in the literature with the “pull” technique being the most common method. In the last section of this review, the reader is presented with a brief discussion of these procedures, techniques and related issues. Despite the mentioned PEG tube placement complications, this procedure has gained worldwide popularity as a safe enteral access for nutrition in patients with a functional gastrointestinal system.

Capsule endoscopy in patients refusing conventional endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is nowadays the diagnostic technique of choice in the study of small bowel pathologies, allowing the non-invasive study of the entire mucosa. This has led, together with new technical advances, to the creation of two new models (PillCam ESO and PillCam Colon) for the study of esophageal and colonic diseases. These two new capsules offer an interesting alternative to conventional endoscopy in the study of the upper and lower digestive tracts, because traditional endoscopy is often unpleasant and uncomfortable for the patient, can be painful, often requires moderate or deep sedation and is not without complications (hemorrhage, perforation, etc.). PillCam Colon is particularly important for its usefulness in the diagnosis of colonic polyps, and is a potentially useful tool in cases of incomplete colonoscopy or in colorectal cancer screening, even more when most patients are reluctant to undergo screening programs due to the said disadvantages of conventional colonoscopy. This article discusses the advantages of capsule endoscopy over conventional endoscopy, its current application possibilities and indications in routine clinical practice. In the various sections of the work, we assess the application of endoscopic capsule in different sections of the digestive tract (esophagus, stomach, and colon) and finally the potential role of panendoscopy with PillCam Colon.

[Confocal laser endomicroscopy principles and performing algorithm in gastric mucosa examination]

Accuracy of endoscopic examination in early gastric cancer and precancerous conditions diagnostics for many years depended only on quality of biopsy. That's why, risk of overlooking gastric focal carcinoma, particularly-- multiple, was relatively high. Last couple of years new endoscopic method--confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) was released for commercial use. This approach provides real-time information about morphology of gastric mucosa during endoscopic examination. CLE is a variation of confocal microscopy--morphologic technique, providing examination of thick specimens or live tissue. CLE system is a single-channel fluorescence microscope, used in endoscopy, where confocal probe incorporated into endoscope or mounted into accessory channel. For proper results of CLE intravenous administration of fluorescence agent is needed. In our study in P.A. Herzen Moscow Cancer Research Institute we have used 10% fluorescein sodium, due to acriflavine use is prohibited in Russian Federation. In 157 patients with suspected early gastric cancer mean time of CLE was 24 ± 3.5 min. In all cases descriptive images were acquired. Mean amount of endomicrosocpic images in one patient was as high as 162 ± 8.3.