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Background The risk of advanced pathology increases with polyp size, as does the potential for mismanagement when optical diagnosis is used. This study aimed to evaluate the proportion of patients who would be assigned inadequate surveillance intervals when different size cutoffs are adopted for use of optical diagnosis. Methods In a post hoc analysis of three prospective studies, the use of optical diagnosis was evaluated for three polyp size groups: 1–3, 1–5, and 1–10 mm. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients in whom advanced adenomas were found and optical diagnosis resulted in delayed surveillance. Secondary outcomes included agreements between surveillance intervals based on high confidence optical diagnosis and pathology outcomes, reduction in histopathological examinations, and proportion of patients who could receive an immediate surveillance recommendation. Results We included 3374 patients (7291 polyps ≤ 10 mm) undergoing complete colonoscopies (median age 66.0 years, 75.2 % male, 29.6 % for screening). The percentage of patients with advanced adenomas and either 2- or 7-year delayed surveillance intervals (n = 79) was 3.8 %, 15.2 %, and 25.3 % for size cutoffs of 1–3, 1–5, and 1–10 mm polyps, respectively (P Conclusion A 3-mm cutoff for clinical implementation of optical diagnosis resulted in a very low risk of delayed management of advanced neoplasia while showing high surveillance interval agreement with pathology and a one-third reduction in overall requirement for pathology examinations.

The aim of this study was to compare high-volume polyethylene glycol (PEG) with low-volume PEG with bisacodyl split-dosing regimens.Adult outpatients in 10 Canadian tertiary hospitals were randomized, stratified by morning or afternoon colonoscopy, to high-volume split-dose PEG (2 L + 2 L) (High-SD) or low volume (1 L + 1 L) + bisacodyl (15 mg) PEG (Low-SD), with a second randomization to liquid or low-residue diets. The primary end point, using noninferiority hypothesis testing, was adequate bowel cleansing (Boston Bowel Preparation Scale total score of ≥6, with each of 3 colonic segments subscores ≥2). Secondary objectives were willingness to repeat the preparation, withdrawal time, cecal intubation, and polyp detection rates.Over 29 months, 2314 subjects were randomized to High-SD (N = 1157) or Low-SD (N = 1157) (mean age, 56.2 ± 13.4 y; 52.1% women). Colonoscopy indications were 38.2% diagnostic, 36.8% screening, and 25.0% surveillance, with no between-group imbalances in patient characteristics. Low-SD satisfied noninferiority criteria vs High-SD for adequate bowel cleanliness with only marginally inferior results (90.1% vs 88.1%; P = .02; difference, 2.0%; 95% CI [0.0%; 4.5%]). High-SD was associated with lower willingness to repeat (66.9% vs 91.9%; P.01), was less well tolerated (7.3 ± 2.3 vs 8.1 ± 1.9; P.01), causing more symptoms. No differences in procedural outcomes were noted except for more frequent cecal intubation rates after High-SD (97.4% vs 95.6%; P = .02). Among the High-SD group, adequate bowel preparation was greater after a clear liquid diet (93.6% vs 87.9%; P.01), a finding not seen in the Low-SD group.Low-SD is noninferior to High-SD in providing adequate bowel preparation. Low-SD results in fewer symptoms, with greater willingness to repeat and tolerability. The overall impact of diet was modest.The study was approved by the research ethic boards from all sites and was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02547571).

ObjectiveProcedure-intense specialties, such as surgery or endoscopy, are a major contributor to the impact of the healthcare sector on the environment. We aimed to measure the amount of waste generated during endoscopic procedures and to understand the impact on waste of changing from reusable to single use endoscopes in the USA.DesignWe conducted a 5-day audit (cross-sectional study) of all endoscopies performed at two US academic medical centres with low and a high endoscopy volume (2000 and 13 000 procedures annually, respectively). We calculated the average disposable waste (excluding waste from reprocessing) generated during one endoscopic procedure to estimate waste of all endoscopic procedures generated in the USA annually (18 million). We further estimated the impact of changing from reusable to single-use endoscopes taking reprocessing waste into account.Results278 endoscopies were performed for 243 patients. Each endoscopy generated 2.1 kg of disposable waste (46 L volume). 64% of waste was going to the landfill, 28% represented biohazard waste and 9% was recycled. The estimated total waste generated during all endoscopic procedures performed in the USA annually would weigh 38 000 metric tons (equivalent of 25 000 passenger cars) and cover 117 soccer fields to 1 m depth. If all endoscopic procedures were performed with single-use endoscopes and accounting for reprocessing, the net waste mass would increase by 40%. Excluding waste from ancillary supplies, net waste generated from reprocessing and endoscope disposal would quadruple with only using single-use endoscopes.ConclusionThis quantitative assessment of the environmental impact of endoscopic procedures highlights that a large amount of waste is generated from disposable instruments. Transitioning to single-use endoscopes may reduce reprocessing waste but would increase net waste.

INTRODUCTION Bowel cleanliness has been shown to be superior with split-dose vs nonsplit preparations; we aimed to directly assess the poorly characterized comparative efficacies of split-dose vs same-day polyethylene glycol (PEG) regimens. METHODS In this study, one of a series of randomized trials performed across 10 Canadian endoscopy units, patients undergoing colonoscopies between 10:30 and 16:30 were allocated to PEG low-volume same-day (15 mg bisacodyl the day before, 2 L the morning of the procedure), low-volume split-dose (15 mg bisacodyl the day before, 1 L + 1 L), or high-volume split-dose (2 L + 2 L). Coprimary endpoints were adequate bowel cleansing based on the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale using in turn different threshold cutoffs. RESULTS Overall, 1,750 subjects were randomized equally across the 3 groups, with no differences in adequate bowel cleanliness rates (low-volume same-day, 90.5%; high-volume split-dose, 92.2%; P = 0.34; and low-volume split-dose, 87.9%; P = 0.17) for the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale ≥6 and 2 for each segment. Willingness to repeat the preparation was not significantly different between low-volume same-day (91.0%) and low-volume split-dose (92.5%; P = 0.40) but was greater than the high-volume split-dose (68.9%; P < 0.01). No significant differences were noted for withdrawal time, cecal intubation, or polyp detection rates. DISCUSSION In this large randomized trial of PEG regimens, low-volume same-day resulted in similar bowel cleanliness compared with high-volume or low-volume split-dosing. Willingness to repeat and tolerability were superior with low-volume same-day compared with high-volume split-dose and similar to low-volume split-dose.

SCOPUS: re.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

EMR is the mainstay of therapy for large colorectal polyps. Local recurrence after EMR is common and can be reduced using margin ablation. Our aim was to evaluate recurrence rates when using hybrid argon plasma coagulation (h-APC) ablation after EMR.Adult patients (aged 18-89 years) undergoing EMR of nonpedunculated colorectal polyps ≥20 mm were enrolled in a prospective multicenter study. h-APC was used to ablate all defect margins and also the resection surface in selected cases. The primary study outcome was recurrence rates found during the first follow-up colonoscopy. Secondary outcomes were technical success and adverse event rates.EMR with h-APC ablation was used in 101 polyps (84 patients, 46.4% women). EMR with h-APC ablation was technically successful in all cases (median EMR time, 15 minutes; median h-APC ablation time, 4 minutes). Median polyp size was 30 mm (range, 20-60). Resected polyps were either adenomas (68/101 [67.3%]), sessile serrated lesions (27/101 [27%]), or adenocarcinomas (6/101 [6%]). The post-EMR recurrence rate was 2.2% (2/91) (95% confidence interval, .27-7.71). All 6 patients with cancer (intramucosal cancer, 4; T1sm cancer, 2) were found to have complete eradication of the primary tumor after EMR with h-APC, and none had lymph node metastasis. Four serious adverse events occurred in 3 patients (2 delayed bleeding [2.4%], 1 abdominal pain [1.2%], and 1 microperforation [1.2%]. All serious adverse events resolved with either endoscopic or antibiotic treatment only.EMR with h-APC showed a high technical success rate, low adverse event rate, and very low post-EMR recurrence rates. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT04015765.).

As evidence has been linking the oral bacterium Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) to colorectal tumorigenesis, we aimed to produce preliminary data on the expression of F. nucleatum in both oral and colorectal body sites in cases diagnosed with colorectal neoplasms (CRN) and CRN-free controls. We conducted a pilot hospital-based case–control study among patients who underwent colonoscopy examination. Saliva samples and biopsies from healthy colon mucosa from CRN cases and CRN-free controls, and from tumors in cases, were collected, as well as data on periodontal condition and potential CRN risk factors. A total of 22 CRN cases and 21 CRN-free controls participated in this study, with a total of 135 biospecimens collected and analyzed by qPCR for detection and quantification of F. nucleatum. The detection rate of F. nucleatum was 95% in saliva samples and 18% in colorectal mucosa specimens. The median (95% CI) salivary F. nucleatum level was 0.35 (0.15–0.82) and 0.12 (0.05–0.65) in case and control groups, respectively, with a Spearman correlation of 0.64 (95% CI 0.2–0.94) between F. nucleatum level in saliva and healthy colorectal mucosa in controls. Our study results support the need for and the feasibility of further studies that aim to investigate the association between oral and colorectal levels of F. nucleatum in CRN cases and controls.Clinical Relevance: Considering the current evidence linking F. nucleatum to colorectal carcinogenesis, investigating the role of oral F. nucleatum expression in its colorectal enrichment is crucial for colorectal cancer screening and prevention avenues.

Diminutive and small colorectal polyps are common findings during colonoscopies, and rarely contain dysplastic elements and progress to colorectal cancer. With improving technology and the advent of artificial intelligence, detection rates of small or diminutive polyps and adenomas are rising, resulting in increasing costs associated with colonoscopy. Incomplete resection rates are an outcome of interest because it correlates with interval colorectal cancer. More effort is warranted to standardize training programs and sensitize endoscopists to the importance of personal performance as a quality metric of colonoscopy. This article reviews indications, methods, and recent developments in polypectomy for small and diminutive polyps.

Post-polypectomy surveillance intervals are currently determined based on pathology results.To evaluate a polyp-based resect and discard model that assigns surveillance intervals based solely on polyp number and size.Patients undergoing elective colonoscopies at the Montreal University Medical Center were enrolled prospectively. The polyp-based strategy was used to assign the next surveillance interval using polyp size and number. Surveillance intervals were also assigned using optical diagnosis for small polyps (10 mm). The primary outcome was surveillance interval agreement between the polyp-based model, optical diagnosis, and the pathology-based reference standard using the 2020 United States Multi-Society Task Force guidelines. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of reduction in required histopathology evaluations and proportion of immediate post-colonoscopy recommendations provided to patients.Of 944 patients (mean age 62.6 years, 49.3% male, 933 polyps) were enrolled. The surveillance interval agreement for the polyp-based strategy was 98.0% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.97-0.99] compared with pathology-based assignment. Optical diagnosis-based intervals achieved 95.8% (95%CI: 0.94-0.97) agreement with pathology. When using the polyp-based strategy and optical diagnosis, the need for pathology assessment was reduced by 87.8% and 70.6%, respectively. The polyp-based strategy provided 93.7% of patients with immediate surveillance interval recommendationsThe polyp-based strategy achieved almost perfect surveillance interval agreement compared with pathology-based assignments, significantly reduced the number of required pathology evaluations, and provided most patients with immediate surveillance interval recommendations.

Serrated polyps are important colorectal cancer precursors and are most commonly located in the proximal colon, where post-polypectomy bleeding rates are higher. There is limited clinical trial evidence to guide best practices for resection of large serrated polyps (LSPs).In a multicenter trial, patients with large (≥20 mm) non-pedunculated polyps undergoing endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) were randomized to clipping of the resection base or no clipping. This analysis is stratified by histologic subtype of study polyp(s), categorized as serrated [sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) or hyperplastic polyps (HPs)] or adenomatous, comparing clip vs control groups. The primary outcome was severe post-procedure bleeding within 30 days of colonoscopy.A total of 179 participants with 199 LSPs (191 SSLs and 8 HPs) and 730 participants with 771 adenomatous polyps were included in the study. Overall, 5 patients with LSPs (2.8%) experienced post-procedure bleeding compared with 42 (5.8%) of those with adenomas. There was no difference in post-procedure bleeding rates between patients in the clip vs control group among those with LSPs (2.3% vs 3.3%, respectively, difference 1.0%; P = NS). However, among those with adenomatous polyps, clipping was associated with a lower risk of post-procedure bleeding (3.9% vs 7.6%, difference 3.7%; P = .03) and overall serious adverse events (5.5% vs 10.6%, difference 5.1%; P = .01).The post-procedure bleeding risk for LSPs removed via EMR is low, and there is no discernable benefit of prophylactic clipping of the resection base in this group. This study indicates that the benefit of endoscopic clipping following EMR may be specific for2 cm adenomatous polyps located in the proximal colon.gov, Number: NCT01936948.

Background & Aims Failed bowel preparation for colonoscopy occurs commonly, but the optimal regimen for the subsequent attempt is unknown. High-volume preparations often are used but are not well studied. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of 2 regimens for use after failed bowel preparation. Methods A multicenter, endoscopist-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted in patients who previously failed bowel preparation despite adequate compliance. Patients were randomized to 1 of 2 split polyethylene glycol (PEG) regimens, preceded by 15 mg bisacodyl: PEG 2 L the evening before and 2 L the day of colonoscopy (PEG 2+2L+bisacodyl), or 4 L and 2 L (PEG 4+2L+bisacodyl). All patients followed a low-fiber diet on both the third and second day before the procedure, followed by a clear fluid diet the day before and the morning of the colonoscopy. The primary outcome was adequate bowel preparation, defined as a Boston Bowel Preparation Scale total score of 6 or higher, with all segment scores of 2 or higher. Secondary outcomes included adenoma detection rate, advanced adenoma detection rate, sessile serrated lesion detection, cecal intubation rate, tolerability, and adverse events. Results A total of 196 subjects were randomized at 4 academic centers in Canada (mean age, 60.7 y; SD, 11.4 y; 44.9% were women). There were no significant differences between the PEG 2+2L+bisacodyl and the PEG 4+2L+bisacodyl groups in achieving adequate bowel preparation (91.2% vs 87.6%; P = .44). There were no significant differences with regard to mean adenoma detection rate (37.4% vs 31.5%; P = .41), advanced adenoma detection rate (18.7% vs 11.2%; P = .16), sessile serrated lesion detection (8.8% vs 5.6%; P = .41), and cecal intubation rate (96.7% vs 92.1%; P = .19). The 2 regimens were similarly well tolerated, but PEG 2+2L+bisacodyl was associated with a higher willingness to repeat the bowel preparation (91.2% vs 66.2%; P Conclusions Split-dose 4 L-PEG with 15 mg bisacodyl, along with dietary restrictions, has similar efficacy as a higher-volume preparation, and should be considered for patients who previously failed bowel preparation ( ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02976805 ).

Colonoscopy is an effective screening procedure in colorectal cancer prevention programs; however, colonoscopy practice can vary in terms of lesion detection, classification, and removal. Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted decision support systems for endoscopy is an area of rapid research and development. The systems promise improved detection, classification, screening, and surveillance for colorectal polyps and cancer. Several recently developed applications for AI-assisted colonoscopy have shown promising results for the detection and classification of colorectal polyps and adenomas. However, their value for real-time application in clinical practice has yet to be determined owing to limitations in the design, validation, and testing of AI models under real-life clinical conditions. Despite these current limitations, ambitious attempts to expand the technology further by developing more complex systems capable of assisting and supporting the endoscopist throughout the entire colonoscopy examination, including polypectomy procedures, are at the concept stage. However, further work is required to address the barriers and challenges of AI integration into broader colonoscopy practice, to navigate the approval process from regulatory organizations and societies, and to support physicians and patients on their journey to accepting the technology by providing strong evidence of its accuracy and safety. This article takes a closer look at the current state of AI integration into the field of colonoscopy and offers suggestions for future research.

Complete polyp resection is the main goal of endoscopic removal of large colonic polyps. Resection techniques have evolved in recent years and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) with margin ablation, cold snare polypectomy (CSP), cold EMR, and underwater EMR have been introduced. Yet, efficacy of these techniques with regard to local recurrence rates (LRRs)To analyze LRR of large colonic polyps in a systematic review and meta-analysis.MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBM Reviews, and CINAHL were searched for prospective studies reporting LRR or incomplete resection rate (IRR) after colonic polypectomy of polyps ≥ 10 mm, published between January 2011 and July 2021. Primary outcome was LRR for polyps ≥ 10 mm.Six thousand nine hundred and twenty-eight publications were identified, of which 34 prospective studies were included. LRR for polyps ≥ 10 mm at up to 12 mo' follow-up was 11.0% (95%CI, 7.1%-14.8%; 15 studies; 4904 polyps). ESD (1.7%; 95%CI, 0%-3.4%; 3 studies, 221 polyps) and endoscopic mucosal resection with margin ablation (3.3%; 95%CI, 2.2%-4.5%; 2 studies, 947 polyps) significantly reduced LRRLRR is significantly lower after ESD or EMR with routine margin ablation; thus, these techniques should be considered standard for endoscopic removal of large colorectal polyps. Other techniques, such as CSP, cold EMR, and underwater EMR require further evaluation in prospective studies before their routine implementation in clinical practice can be recommended.

Background and study aim Delayed bleeding is a common adverse event following endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of large colorectal polyps. Prophylactic clip closure of the mucosal defect after EMR of nonpedunculated polyps larger than 20 mm reduces the incidence of severe delayed bleeding, especially in proximal polyps. This study aimed to evaluate factors associated with complete prophylactic clip closure of the mucosal defect after EMR of large polyps. Methods This is a post hoc analysis of the CLIP study (NCT01936948). All patients randomized to the clip group were included. Main outcome was complete clip closure of the mucosal resection defect. The defect was considered completely closed when no remaining mucosal defect was visible and clips were less than 1 cm apart. Factors associated with complete closure were evaluated in multivariable analysis. Results In total, 458 patients (age 65, 58 % men) with 494 large polyps were included. Complete clip closure of the resection defect was achieved for 338 polyps (68.4 %); closure was not complete for 156 (31.6 %). Factors associated with complete closure in adjusted analysis were smaller polyp size (odds ratio 1.06 for every millimeter decrease [95 % confidence interval 1.02–1.08]), good access (OR 3.58 [1.94–9.59]), complete submucosal lifting (OR 2.28 [1.36–3.90]), en bloc resection (OR 5.75 [1.48–22.39]), and serrated histology (OR 2.74 [1.35–5.56]). Conclusions Complete clip closure was not achieved for almost one in three resected large nonpedunculated polyps. While stable access and en bloc resection facilitate clip closure, most factors associated with clip closure are not modifiable. This highlights the need for alternative closure options and measures to prevent bleeding.

Background and study aims: In recent years, cold snare polypectomy (CSP) has been recommended as the preferred approach for removal of small and diminutive colorectal polyps. We conducted an intern...

To compare endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) outcomes between Eastern and Western countries.A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL and EBM reviews to identify studies published between 1990 and February 2016. The primary outcome was the efficacy of ESD based on information about either curative resection,Overall, 238 publications including 84318 patients and 89512 gastrointestinal lesions resected using ESD were identified. 90% of the identified studies reporting ESD on 87296 lesions were conducted in Eastern countries and 10% of the identified studies reporting ESD outcomes in 2216 lesions were from Western countries. Meta-analyses showed higher pooled percentage of curative,Eastern countries show better ESD outcomes compared to Western countries. Availability of local ESD expertise and regional outcomes should be considered for decision making to treat gastrointestinal lesions with ESD.

During endoscopy, the resect and discard strategy, if performed with high confidence, can be used to determine histologic features of diminutive colorectal polyps (5 mm or less). These polyps can then be removed and discarded without pathology assessment. However, the complexities of real-time optical assessment and follow-up management have provided challenges to widespread use of this approach. We aimed to determine the outcomes of simple alternative strategies, in which all diminutive polyps can be resected and discarded.We collected data from 2 previous studies that used narrow-band imaging to assess polyps, performed at 5 medical centers (1658 patients with 2285 diminutive polyps; 15 endoscopists). We compared 3 resect and discard strategies: the currently used optical strategy, which relies on high confidence optical assessment of all diminutive polyps; a location-based strategy that classifies all recto-sigmoid diminutive polyps a priori as hyperplastic and all polyps proximal to the recto-sigmoid colon a priori as neoplastic; and a simplified optical strategy, in which all recto-sigmoid diminutive polyps are classified as hyperplastic unless confidently assessed as neoplastic, and all polyps proximal to the recto-sigmoid colon are classified as neoplastic unless confidently assessed as hyperplastic polyps. The primary outcome was the agreement of the surveillance interval calculated for each strategy with the surveillance interval determined by pathology analysis.The proportion of surveillance intervals that agreed with pathology-based surveillance recommendations was slightly higher when the optical strategy was used compared to the location-based strategy or simplified optical strategy (94% vs 89% and 90%, respectively; P .001). When the 5-10 year recommendations for patients with low-risk polyps were applied as a 10-year surveillance interval, all 3 strategies resulted in surveillance interval agreement compared to pathology above 90% (the quality benchmark). Use of the simplified or location-based strategy could have avoided pathology analysis for 77% of all polyps, compared to 59% if the optical strategy was used (P.001). In addition, a higher proportion of patients could receive recommendations immediately after colonoscopy with use of the simplified or location based strategy (65%) compared to the optical strategy (40%) (P .001).A location-based and a simplified optical resect and discard strategy produced surveillance recommendations that were in agreement with those from pathology analysis for at least 90% of patients, assuming a 10-year surveillance interval for patients with low-risk polyps. These strategies could further reduce the number of pathology examinations and provide more patients with immediate surveillance recommendations. Optical assessment might be reduced or might not be required for resect and discard. Clintrials.gov no: NCT01935180 and NCT01288833.

AIM To summarize and compare worldwide colorectal cancer (CRC) screening recommendations in order to identify similarities and disparities. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, CENTRAL and ISI Web of knowledge identifying all average-risk CRC screening guideline publications within the last ten years and/or position statements published in the last 2 years. In addition, a hand-search of the webpages of National Gastroenterology Society websites, the National Guideline Clearinghouse, the BMJ Clinical Evidence website, Google and Google Scholar was performed. RESULTS Fifteen guidelines were identified. Six guidelines were published in North America, four in Europe, four in Asia and one from the World Gastroenterology Organization. The majority of guidelines recommend screening average-risk individuals between ages 50 and 75 using colonoscopy (every 10 years), or flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS, every 5 years) or fecal occult blood test (FOBT, mainly the Fecal Immunochemical Test, annually or biennially). Disparities throughout the different guidelines are found relating to the use of colonoscopy, rank order between test, screening intervals and optimal age ranges for screening. CONCLUSION Average risk individuals between 50 and 75 years should undergo CRC screening. Recommendations for optimal surveillance intervals, preferred tests/test cascade as well as the optimal timing when to start and stop screening differ regionally and should be considered for clinical decision making. Furthermore, local resource availability and patient preferences are important to increase CRC screening uptake, as any screening is better than none.

Main Recommendations ESGE recommends the use of a graded pneumatic dilation protocol in achalasia, starting with a 30-mm dilation and followed by a 35-mm dilation at a planned interval of 2-4 weeks, with a subsequent 40-mm dilation when there is insufficient relief, over both a single balloon dilation procedure or the use of a larger balloon from the outset. Strong recommendation, high quality of evidence, level of agreement 100%. ESGE recommends being cautious in treating spastic motility disorders other than achalasia with peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Strong recommendation, very low quality of evidence, level of agreement 87.5%. ESGE recommends against the routine use of botulinum toxin injections to treat patients with non-achalasia hypercontractile esophageal motility disorders (Jackhammer esophagus, distal esophageal spasm). However, if, in individual patients, endoscopic injection of botulinum toxin is chosen, ESGE recommends performing injections into four quadrants of the lower esophageal sphincter and in the lower third of the esophagus. Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 78.6%. ESGE recommends that endoscopic pylorus-directed therapy should be considered only in patients with symptoms suggestive of gastroparesis in combination with objective proof of delayed gastric emptying using a validated test, and only when medical therapy has failed. Strong recommendation, very low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100%. ESGE recommends against the use of botulinum toxin injection in the treatment of unselected patients with gastroparesis. Strong recommendation, high quality of evidence, level of agreement 92.9%. ESGE recommends consideration of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) in carefully selected patients only, because it is an emerging procedure with limited data on effectiveness, safety, and durability. G-POEM should be performed in expert centers only, preferably in the context of a clinical trial. Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100%., SCOPUS: re.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Background & Aims Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a widely accepted treatment option for superficial gastric neoplasia in Asia, but there are few data on outcomes of gastric ESD from North America. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of gastric ESD in North America. Methods We analyzed data from 347 patients who underwent gastric ESD at 25 centers, from 2010 through 2019. We collected data on patient demographics, lesion characteristics, procedure details and related adverse events, treatment outcomes, local recurrence, and vital status at the last follow up. For the 277 patients with available follow-up data, the median interval between initial ESD and last clinical or endoscopic evaluation was 364 days. The primary endpoint was the rate of en bloc and R0 resection. Secondary outcomes included curative resection, rates of adverse events and recurrence, and gastric cancer-related death. Results Ninety patients (26%) had low-grade adenomas or dysplasia, 82 patients (24%) had high-grade dysplasia, 139 patients (40%) had early gastric cancer, and 36 patients (10%) had neuroendocrine tumors. Proportions of en bloc and R0 resection for all lesions were 92%/82%, for early gastric cancers were 94%/75%, for adenomas and low-grade dysplasia were 93%/ 92%, for high-grade dysplasia were 89%/ 87%, and for neuroendocrine tumors were 92%/75%. Intraprocedural perforation occurred in 6.6% of patients; 82% of these were treated successfully with endoscopic therapy. Delayed bleeding occurred in 2.6% of patients. No delayed perforation or procedure-related deaths were observed. There were local recurrences in 3.9% of cases; all occurred after non-curative ESD resection. Metachronous lesions were identified in 14 patients (6.9%). One of 277 patients with clinical follow up died of metachronous gastric cancer that occurred 2.5 years after the initial ESD. Conclusions ESD is a highly effective treatment for superficial gastric neoplasia and should be considered as a viable option for patients in North America. The risk of local recurrence is low and occurs exclusively after non-curative resection. Careful endoscopic surveillance is necessary to identify and treat metachronous lesions.

Background & Aims Incomplete resection of neoplastic colorectal polyps can result in postcolonoscopy colorectal cancer. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the incomplete resection rate (IRR) of colorectal polyps and associated factors. Methods We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBM Reviews, and CINAHL to identify full-text articles that reported IRRs of polyps 1 to 20 mm, published until March 2019. Exclusion criteria were studies of inflammatory bowel disease cohorts, referrals for difficult polypectomy, polyp sizes larger than 20 mm, and endoscopic submucosal resection and/or dissection as polypectomy approaches. IRRs were calculated based on findings from biopsies taken at polypectomy sites or assessments of margins of resected polyps. The primary outcome was IRR for snare removal of polyps 1 to 20 mm. Secondary outcomes included IRR for polyps 1 to 10 mm and 10 to 20 mm, IRR for hot and cold snare removal of polyps 1 to 10 mm and 10 to 20 mm, IRR of snare removal with or without submucosal injection, and IRR for forceps and cold snare removal of polyps 1 to 5 mm. Results We identified 6148 reports and used 32 studies, with a total of 9282 polyps, in our quantitative analysis. The IRR for snare removal of polyps 1 to 20 mm was 13.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 10.3–17.3; 13 studies, 5128 polypectomies). IRRs were 15.9% for snare removal of polyps 1 to 10 mm (95% CI 9.6–22.1; 9 studies, 2531 polypectomies) and 20.8% for snare removal of polyps 10 to 20 mm (95% CI 12.9–28.8; 6 studies, 412 polypectomies). The IRR for hot snare removal of polyps 1 to 10 mm was 14.2% (95% CI 5.2–23.2) vs 17.3% for cold snare polypectomy (95% CI 14.3‒20.3). The IRR for forceps removal of polyps 1 to 5 mm was 9.9% (95% CI 7.1–13.0) vs 4.4% for snare polypectomy (95% CI 2.9–6.1). Conclusions In a systematic review and meta-analysis, we found that colorectal polyps 1 to 20 mm are frequently incompletely resected, and that risk increases for polyps 10 mm or larger. There is no difference in IRRs of cold vs hot snares for polyps 1 to 10 mm. Snare polypectomy should be used over forceps for polyps 1 to 5 mm.

Background & Aims There is debate over the type of electrosurgical setting that should be used for polyp resection. Some endoscopists use a type of blended current (yellow), whereas others prefer coagulation (blue). We performed a single-blinded, randomized trial to determine whether type of electrosurgical setting affects risk of adverse events or recurrence. Methods Patients undergoing endoscopic mucosal resection of nonpedunculated colorectal polyps 20 mm or larger (n = 928) were randomly assigned, in a 2 × 2 design, to groups that received clip closure or no clip closure of the resection defect (primary intervention) and then to either a blended current (Endocut Q) or coagulation current (forced coagulation) (Erbe Inc) (secondary intervention and focus of the study). The study was performed at multiple centers, from April 2013 through October 2017. Patients were evaluated 30 days after the procedure (n = 919), and 675 patients underwent a surveillance colonoscopy at a median of 6 months after the procedure. The primary outcome was any severe adverse event in a per patient analysis. Secondary outcomes were complete resection and recurrence at first surveillance colonoscopy in a per polyp analysis. Results Serious adverse events occurred in 7.2% of patients in the Endocut group and 7.9% of patients in the forced coagulation group, with no significant differences in the occurrence of types of events. There were no significant differences between groups in proportions of polyps that were completely removed (96% in the Endocut group vs 95% in the forced coagulation group) or the proportion of polyps found to have recurred at surveillance colonoscopy (17% and 17%, respectively). Procedural characteristics were comparable, except that 17% of patients in the Endocut group had immediate bleeding that required an intervention, compared with 11% in the forced coagulation group (P = .006). Conclusions In a randomized trial to compare 2 commonly used electrosurgical settings for the resection of large colorectal polyps (Endocut vs forced coagulation), we found no difference in risk of serious adverse events, complete resection rate, or polyp recurrence. Electrosurgical settings can therefore be selected based on endoscopist expertise and preference. Clinicaltrials.gov ID NCT01936948.

Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major worldwide cause of cancer-related mortality. Colonoscopy programs based on guideline-recommended surveillance intervals have been put in place to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with CRC. We were interested to evaluate clinical practice adherence to guideline-recommended surveillance intervals, the potential extent of early repeat colonoscopies, and causes of nonadherence to guideline recommendations. Methods We performed a literature search for articles reporting on guideline adherence for surveillance colonoscopies. Exclusion criteria included inflammatory bowel disease and hereditary CRC syndrome cohorts. Primary outcome was correct interval assignment in patients undergoing surveillance colonoscopy. Groups were assessed for adherence according to their respective guideline recommendations (North American or European). Results 16 studies were included in the analysis. The mean colonoscopy surveillance interval adherence rate was 48.8 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 37.3 – 60.4). For North American guidelines, surveillance interval assignments were adherent to guideline recommendations in 44.7 % (95 %CI 24.2 – 66.3) of patients after detection of low risk lesions and in 54.6 % (95 %CI 41.4 – 67.4) after detection of high risk lesions. For European guidelines, surveillance interval assignments were adherent to recommendations in 24.4 % (95 %CI 1.1 – 63.4) of patients after detection of low risk lesions and in 73.6 % (95 %CI 35.5 – 98.8) after detection of high risk lesions. Conclusions The worldwide adherence to surveillance colonoscopy guidelines was low, with more than 50 % of patients undergoing repeat colonoscopies either too early or too late. Early repeat colonoscopies occurred with the highest frequency for patients in whom only hyperplastic polyps or low risk adenomas were found.

Background and Aims Optical polyp diagnosis using image-enhanced endoscopy (IEE) allows for real-time histology prediction of colorectal polyps. The aim of this study was to evaluate a recently introduced IEE modality (Optivista [OV]; Pentax Medical, Tokyo, Japan) in a randomized controlled trial. Methods In a prospective cohort of subjects (ages 45-80 years) undergoing elective screening, surveillance, or diagnostic colonoscopy, all colorectal polyps between 1 and 5 mm underwent IEE assessment. Study subjects were randomized before their colonoscopy procedure to undergo optical polyp diagnosis using either OV IEE or iScan (IS) IEE. A validated IEE scale (NBI International Colorectal Endoscopic classification) was used for optical polyp diagnosis. The primary outcome was the agreement of surveillance intervals determined when using OV IEE compared with IS IEE in reference with pathology-based surveillance intervals. Secondary outcomes were the percentage of surveillance intervals that could be given on the same day as the procedure, percentage of pathology tests avoided, diagnostic performance, and negative predictive value (NPV) of optical diagnosis for rectosigmoid adenomas. Results Four hundred ten patients were enrolled in the trial. The polyp detection rate was 58.6%, and the adenoma detection rate was 38.8%. The proportion of correct surveillance interval assignment when using OV or IS IEE was 96.5% versus 96.0% (P = .75). A total of 65.1% of patients could be given same-day surveillance intervals when using OV IEE versus 73.1% for IS IEE (P = .07). The NPV for rectosigmoid adenomas (including sessile serrated adenomas) was 97.5% when using OV IEE and 88.2% when using IS IEE. Using high-confidence optical diagnosis instead of pathology would have resulted in a 44.3% elimination of required pathology examinations for OV IEE versus 52.8% for IS IEE (P = .34). Conclusions Optical diagnosis using OV and IS IEE both surpassed the 90% benchmark of surveillance interval assignment, and no significant difference with regard to correct surveillance interval assignment was found. OV IEE surpassed the ≥90% NPV for rectosigmoid adenomas, whereas IS IEE did not. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT 03515343.)

Background & Aims Bleeding is the most common severe complication after endoscopic mucosal resection of large colon polyps and is associated with significant morbidity and cost. We examined whether prophylactic closure of the mucosal defect with hemoclips after polyp resection reduces the risk of bleeding. Methods We performed a multicenter, randomized trial of patients with a large nonpedunculated colon polyp (≥20 mm) at 18 medical centers in North America and Spain from April 2013 through October 2017. Patients were randomly assigned to groups that underwent endoscopic closure with a clip (clip group) or no closure (control group) and followed. The primary outcome, postprocedure bleeding, was defined as a severe bleeding event that required hospitalization, a blood transfusion, colonoscopy, surgery, or another invasive intervention within 30 days after completion of the colonoscopy. Subgroup analyses included postprocedure bleeding with polyp location, polyp size, or use of periprocedural antithrombotic medications. We also examined the risk of any serious adverse event. Results A total of 919 patients were randomly assigned to groups and completed follow-up. Postprocedure bleeding occurred in 3.5% of patients in the clip group and 7.1% in the control group (absolute risk difference [ARD] 3.6%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.7%–6.5%). Among 615 patients (66.9%) with a proximal large polyp, the risk of bleeding in the clip group was 3.3% and in the control group was 9.6% (ARD 6.3%; 95% CI 2.5%–10.1%); among patients with a distal large polyp, the risks were 4.0% in the clip group and 1.4% in the control group (ARD –2.6%; 95% CI –6.3% to –1.1%). The effect of clip closure was independent of antithrombotic medications or polyp size. Serious adverse events occurred in 4.8% of patients in the clip group and 9.5% of patients in the control group (ARD 4.6%; 95% CI 1.3%–8.0%). Conclusions In a randomized trial, we found that endoscopic clip closure of the mucosal defect following resection of large colon polyps reduces risk of postprocedure bleeding. The protective effect appeared to be restricted to large polyps located in the proximal colon. ClinicalTrials.gov no: NCT01936948.

Background. The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons developed the Fundamentals of Endoscopic Surgery (FES) to test the knowledge and skills required to perform flexible endoscopy. The program includes online didactic material to complement the written component, but does not have a practice component for the skills portion. The purpose of this study was to develop and pilot test low-cost models to train for the hands-on component of the FES examination. Methods. Based on the deconstructed skills tested in FES, a low-cost simulator and metrics that model retroflexion, instrumentation and targeting, loop reduction, and mucosal evaluation were developed. The model is reuseable and requires a real endoscope and tower. Validity evidence was obtained by comparing performance between novice endoscopists (NEs) and experienced endoscopists (EEs). Results. Six NEs and 6 EEs participated. In retroflexion, EEs and NEs scored (median [interquartile range]) 72.9 (67.1; 78.6) and 37.9 (25.7; 50.0; P = .004), respectively. In targeting, EEs scored 102.0 (75.0; 110.0) and NEs scored 50.0 (25.0; 50.0; P = .089). In navigation and loop reduction, EEs scored 189.0 (108.0; 267.0) and NEs scored 0.0 (0.0; 0.0; P = .004). In mucosal evaluation, EEs scored 133.3 (103.3; 150.0) and NEs scored 66.7 (50.0; 103.3; P = .015). The median global scores were 116.6 (109.6; 135.8) for EEs and 39.1 (29.1; 40.6; P = .004) for NEs. Conclusion. This pilot study provides preliminary validity evidence to support using these tasks to measure basic flexible endoscopic skills. Subsequent studies will examine the implementation of a proficiency curriculum using this model and its value as a training tool for flexible endoscopy, or to prepare for the FES exam.

Background The recently developed technique for peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been shown to be effective in several short-term studies. Longer term outcome data are largely non-existent. Objective To systematically report clinical outcome with a minimum post-POEM follow-up of 2 years. Design All patients treated consecutively by POEM for achalasia at three centres were retrospectively analysed, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The main outcome was the rate of POEM failures (Eckardt score >3) related to follow-up time. Results Of 85 patients treated, five (5.9%) cases were excluded due to protocol violation or loss to follow-up; the remaining 80 patients (mean age 44.9 years, 54% men) were followed clinically for 29 months (range 24–41). Initial clinical response was observed in 77 cases (96.3%). Clinical recurrences (later failures) were seen in a further 14 cases (17.7%), accounting for a total failure rate of 21.5%. In a multivariate analysis, age and endoscopic reflux signs were independent predictors of treatment success. Of the 17 failures, eight were among the first 10 cases treated in the participating centres. Reflux-associated sequelae included one case of a severe reflux-associated stricture requiring dilatation, and two patients with minor transient Eckardt score elevations curable by proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment. Endoscopic signs of reflux oesophagitis, mostly Los Angeles grade A/B, were seen in 37.5% (37/72) at the 2-year control. Conclusions In this multicentre retrospective analysis, a high initial success rate of POEM is followed by a mid-term recurrence rate of 18%. Reflux oesophagitis, albeit mild, is frequent and should probably be treated by regular low-dose PPI therapy. Trial registration number NCT 01405417 (UKE study).

Background and study aims Current colonoscopy practice requires removal of diminutive polyps. This is associated with costs, but the benefits to colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention remain unclear. The study aim was to understand patients’ willingness to defer resection of diminutive polyps and to examine the factors that influence patients’ decisions. Patients and methods Adults presenting for a colonoscopy were surveyed at three hospitals in the USA and Canada. Survey domains included: patient characteristics, risk perception, knowledge about CRC risk, willingness to defer polyp resection, and associated concerns. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients who would be willing to participate in a clinical trial that deferred resection of diminutive polyps. Secondary endpoints included factors associated with willingness to defer diminutive polyp resection. Results 557 eligible individuals completed the survey (mean age 63; 61 % men), with 50 % of respondents being willing to participate in a randomized trial in which resection of diminutive polyps would be deferred until the next surveillance colonoscopy (95 % confidence interval [CI] 46 % – 55 %). Outside of a clinical trial, 57 % of participants would be agreeable to deferring resection of diminutive polyps (95 %CI 51 % – 63 %). Willingness to defer diminutive polyp resection was associated with higher education (P = 0.001), greater knowledge about cancer risk (P = 0.002), and a lower perception of cancer risk (all P Conclusions More than half of individuals undergoing a routine colonoscopy would be agreeable to deferring resection of diminutive polyps and participating in a trial to evaluate this approach.

The newly developed technique of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been shown to be effective in several short- and mid-term studies. Limited information is available about the adequacy of immediate post-POEM monitoring tests. POEM was performed under general anesthesia in 228 patients (59.6% male, mean age 45.6 ± 15.5 years). Post-procedural checks comprised clinical and laboratory examination, and, during post-procedure days 1–5, endoscopy and—in the first 114 cases—radiologic examination using water-soluble contrast (1st group); the remaining patients underwent post-procedure controls without radiology (2nd group). Main outcome was value of endoscopic compared to radiologic control for recognition of early adverse events. In the first group, routine fluoroscopic contrast swallow suggested minor leakages at the mucosal entry site in two cases which was confirmed endoscopically in only one. Endoscopy revealed two minor entry site leakages and, in six additional cases, dislocated clips without leakage (overall 5.3%). All eight patients underwent reclipping and healed without clinical sequelae. In the 2nd group, endoscopy showed 5 clip dislocations (all reclipped) and one ischemic cardiac perforation in a patient with clinical deterioration on post-POEM day 1 who had to undergo surgery after confirmation of leakage by CT. Radiologic monitoring (contrast swallow) after POEM is not useful and can be omitted. Even routine endoscopic monitoring for detection and closure of minor defects of the mucosal entry site yields limited information with regards to final outcome; major complications are very rare and probably associated with clinical deterioration. Clinical Trials Gov Registration number of the main study: NCT01405417.

Colonoscopy and endoscopic removal of precancerous polyps play an important role in colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention. Improved endoscopes and quality standards have led to an increasing polyp and adenoma detection rate. Optimal polyp resection techniques and management strategies are key for an effective colonoscopy practice. Areas covered: Strategies for how to improve diminutive polyp (polyps up to 5 mm in size) management are discussed because of their high prevalence. Systematic removal of diminutive polyps leads to increasing costs of colonoscopy practice, while the effect on colorectal cancer prevention might be negligible. Furthermore, polypectomy recommendations for mid-size and large polyps are provided. For all larger polyps larger, complete and safe resection is mandatory to avoid post colonoscopy cancers. The focus for managing such larger polyps is to use new techniques (i.e. cold snares) and to attempt complete removal and to reduce post-polypectomy complications. Expert commentary: The resect-and-discard strategy is a promising management strategy for diminutive polyps. However, modification of this approach might be required in order to make widespread adoption feasible. Cold snare polypectomy is a promising new approach for small polyp resection. For resection of large polyps adequate treatment recommendations with regard to endoscopic mucosal resection and complication prevention are provided.

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an entirely endoscopic approach for the treatment of achalasia. This new procedure has been shown to be safe, effective, and associated with only minor complications in the postoperative period. This case report describes the development of atrial fibrillation after POEM secondary to direct compression from a hematoma in the submucosal tunnel. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a delayed hematoma after POEM. This procedure is still novel, and it is important to continue to share information about potential complications and long-term results. This report also includes several interesting radiographic images to illustrate what occurred. Finally, we provide a brief review of the literature on complications that have been described after POEM.

Achalasia is a primary esophageal motility disorder, which shows distinct clinical, manometric, radiologic, and pathologic features. Available treatment strategies are pharmacological, endoscopic or surgical. In the past decades preferred treatment has alternated between surgical myotomy (presently Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy [LHM]) and endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD). While surgical myotomy promises superior long-term results and significantly less retreatment, endoscopic balloon dilation is initially far less invasive and yields comparable results after redilation. Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) aims to combine the minimal invasive approach through the mouth with the better long-term results after LHM. Initial findings in the literature point to comparable success-rates after POEM and LHM. In the literature complication rates are similar to those obtained after surgery. This new interventional technique should be subject to randomized controlled trials and compared to EBD and LHM.

IntroductionInadequate bowel preparation is common and negatively impacts colonoscopy quality. The objective of this study is to compare two bowel preparation regimens in cleansing the colon after an index colonoscopy with failed bowel preparation.Methods and analysisThis is a phase III, multicentre, randomised clinical trial comparing two bowel preparation regimens after failure to adequately cleanse at the index colonoscopy. Regimen A consists of 4 L split-dose polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution (PEG-ELS) and Regimen B consists of 6 L split-dose PEG-ELS, both preceded by 15 mg of bisacodyl the day before the procedure along with a low-fibre diet 3 and 2 days before the procedure followed by a clear fluid diet starting the day before the procedure. The primary outcome is adequate bowel preparation, defined as a Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS) score of ≥6 with each segment score ≥2. Secondary outcomes include mean BBPS score, bowel preparation adequacy using the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer definition, detection rate by polyp subtype, caecal intubation rate, mean Validated Patient Tolerability Questionnaire for Bowel Preparation score, subject willingness to repeat the preparation and faecal incontinence rate.Ethics and disseminationThe study will be conducted in accordance with Good Clinical Practice guidelines and local institutional standards. Study findings will be disseminated at an international gastroenterology conference and published in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberNCT02976805; Pre-results.

Comparison of short- and long-term effects after laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) and endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) considering the need for retreatment.Previously published studies have indicated that LHM is the most effective treatment for Achalasia. In contrast to that a recent randomized trial found EBD equivalent to LHM 2 years after initial treatment.A search in Medline, PubMed, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted for prospective studies on interventional achalasia therapy with predefined exclusion criteria. Data on success rates after the initial and repeated treatment were extracted. An adjusted network meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis was used, combined with a head-to-head comparison, for follow-up at 12, 24, and 60 months.Sixteen studies including results of 590 LHM and EBD patients were identified. Odds ratio (OR) was 2.20 at 12 months (95% confidence interval: 1.18-4.09; P = 0.01); 5.06 at 24 months (2.61-9.80; P0.00001) and 29.83 at 60 months (3.96-224.68; P = 0.001). LHM was also significantly superior for all time points when therapy included re-treatments [OR = 4.83 (1.87-12.50), 19.61 (5.34-71.95), and 17.90 (2.17-147.98); P ≤ 0.01 for all comparisons) Complication rates were not significantly different. Meta-regression analysis showed that amount of dilations had a significant impact on treatment effects (P = 0.009). Every dilation (up to 3) improved treatment effect by 11.9% (2.8%-21.8%).In this network meta-analysis, LHM demonstrated superior short- and long-term efficacy and should be considered first-line treatment of esophageal achalasia.

Background Virtual autopsy by using CT imaging has been introduced as an alternative to conventional autopsy and has resulted in an increase in acceptance of autopsy by relatives. Because direct inspection and tissue acquisition is not possible by imaging alone, various endoscopic techniques can be considered of complementary usefulness. Objectives We present the first series of sequential endoscopic techniques including natural orifice transluminal access for minimally invasive autopsy. Setting University hospital, legal medicine department. Subjects Twenty deceased subjects. Intervention Various flexible endoscopic modalities including EUS, with biopsy or EUS-guided FNA, were attempted. This included transluminal intra-abdominal endoscopic exploration with tissue sampling in a few cases. Main Outcome Measurements Completeness of inspection of the luminal and extraluminal cavity as well as tissue acquisition. Results Complete upper GI endoscopy was performed in 17 of 20 and EUS in 8 of 8 cases. In addition, transgastric intra-abdominal endoscopy was successfully performed in 5 cases. Adequate histology from biopsy and EUS-guided puncture could be obtained in case of short time intervals post mortem. In 1 case, a rupture of the gastric cardia with bleeding was diagnosed as a significant unexpected finding. New minor pathological findings were revealed on EGD (6/17), GI EUS (3/8), and transgastric inspection (4/5). Limitations Limited number of cases for all procedures. Conclusion Minimally invasive autopsy by using multiple endoscopic techniques for imaging and tissue acquisition is feasible. The significant value of this technique, in combination with virtual autopsy compared with classic autopsy, warrants further evaluation.

Recently, new guidelines for diagnosing IgG4-associated cholangitis have been published devaluing the diagnostic significance of IgG4-positive plasma cells and steroid trials. We sought to evaluate the utility of IgG4-positive plasma cells in discriminating IgG4-associated cholangitis from hilar cholangiocarcinoma and autoimmune pancreatitis from pancreatic adenocarcinoma under conditions when malignancy is likely to be missed.Resection specimens obtained from patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma or hepatocellular carcinoma were re-evaluated for IgG4-positivity. Histological analysis focussed on peritumoural but tumour-free sections. Perioperative biochemical and clinical data were reviewed.Nineteen patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma and 29 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma were eligible for histological re-evaluation. Six of 19 (32%) patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma and 5 of 29 (17%) patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma were IgG4-positive (≥20 IgG4-positive plasma cells per high power field). Patients with IgG4-positive hilar cholangiocarcinoma showed significantly higher levels of serum total bilirubin (3.6mg/dl vs. 1.8mg/dl; P0.05) and serum alanine-aminotransferase (median 343U/l vs. 63U/l, P0.05) compared to IgG4-negative patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma.IgG4-positive plasma cells are of limited utility especially in distinguishing hilar cholangiocarcinoma from IgG4-associated cholangitis even when combined with clinical parameters and may be misleading under conditions when malignancy is missed.

Background and Aims The adenoma detection rate (ADR) is an important colonoscopy quality parameter. A longer withdrawal time is associated with increased adenoma detection; however, the effect of cecal insertion time on adenoma detection is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate if cecal insertion time is associated with adenoma detection. Methods The study included 50- to 89-year-old subjects undergoing an elective outpatient colonoscopy as part of a randomized trial on cap-assisted colonoscopy. The primary outcome was the adjusted mean number of adenomas per patient across quartiles of lengthening patient insertion times. Secondary outcomes included the mean number of advanced adenomas, ADR, and advanced ADR. Adjusted regression analysis was applied to assess for a possible trend. Results Among 1043 included study subjects, the median cecal insertion time was 5.3 minutes (interquartile range [IQR], 3.5-8.1) and the median withdrawal time was 8.6 minutes (IQR, 7.1-10.7). Cecal insertion time was not associated with withdrawal time ( P = .950). The mean number of adenomas per patient decreased across increasing insertion time quartiles from 1.1 to .7, corresponding to a 11% decline per quartile ( P = .031). Similarly, the number of advanced adenomas decreased from .15 to .06, corresponding to a 7% decline per quartile ( P = .013). The observed decrease in adenoma detection was similar for proximal and distal adenomas. Endoscopists' individual insertion times were not associated with adenoma detection. Conclusions A longer cecal insertion time was associated with a decreased detection of adenomas and advanced adenomas. A long insertion time may be a marker for a more difficult examination that requires a longer withdrawal time to assure adequate examination and adenoma detection. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT01935180.)

Background New therapies are needed for pancreatic cancer. Objective To determine the feasibility and safety of a new endoscopic treatment. Secondary endpoints were to determine effects on tumor growth measured with CT scan and to find the overall survival. Design A cohort study of patients with local progression of advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma after neoadjuvant therapy. The cryotherm probe (CTP), a flexible bipolar device that combines radiofrequency with cryogenic cooling, was used under EUS guidance. Setting San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy; University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany. Patients A total of 22 patients (male/female 11/11; mean age 61.9 years) were enrolled from September 2009 to May 2011. Intervention Radiofrequency heating: 18 W; pressure for cooling: 650 psi (Pounds per Square Inch); application time: depending on tumor size. Main Outcome Measurements Feasibility was evaluated during the procedure. A clinical and radiologic follow-up was planned. Results The CTP was successfully applied in 16 patients (72.8%); in 6 it was not possible because of stiffness of the GI wall and of the tumor. Amylase arose in 3 of 16 patients; none had clinical signs of pancreatitis. Late complications arose in 4 cases: 3 were mostly related to tumor progression. Median postablation survival time was 6 months. A CT scan was performed in all patients, but only in 6 of 16 was it possible to clearly define the tumor margins after ablation. In these patients, the tumor appeared smaller compared with the initial mass (P = .07). Limitations Small sample of patients, difficulty of objectifying the size of the ablated zone by CT scan. Conclusion EUS-guided CTP ablation is feasible and safe. Further investigations are needed to demonstrate progression-free survival and local control.

Endoscopic balloon dilatation and laparoscopic myotomy are established treatments for achalasia. Recently, a new endoscopic technique for complete myotomy was described. Herein, we report the results of the first prospective trial of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in Europe.POEM was performed under general anesthesia in 16 patients (male:female (12:4), mean age 45 years, range 26-76). The primary outcome was symptom relief at 3 months, defined as an Eckhard score ≤3. Secondary outcomes were procedure-related adverse events, lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure on manometry, reflux symptoms, and medication use before and after POEM.A 3-month follow-up was completed for all patients. Treatment success (Eckhard score ≤3) was achieved in 94% of cases (mean score pre- vs. post-treatment (8.8 vs. 1.4); P0.001). Mean LES pressure was 27.2 mm Hg pre-treatment and 11.8 mm Hg post-treatment (P0.001). No patient developed symptoms of gastro-esophageal reflux after treatment, but one patient was found to have an erosive lesion (LA grade A) on follow-up esophagogastroduodenoscopy. No patient required medication with proton pump inhibitors or antacids after POEM.POEM is a promising new treatment for achalasia resulting in short-term symptom relief in90% of cases. Studies evaluating long-term efficacy and comparing POEM with established treatments have been initiated.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Acute perforations of the gastrointestinal tract are rare, severe complications of endoscopy that usually require surgical repair. Endoscopic repair of perforations would reduce the need For surgeries; we evaluated the efficacy and safety of endoscopic closure of acute perforations of the gastrointestinal tract by using a new clip device. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, international, multicenter study of 36 consecutive patients (15 male) with acute iatrogenic perforations (5 esophageal, 6 gastric, 12 duodenal, and 13 colonic perforation). Endoscopic repair was performed by using the Over-the-Scope-Clip according to a standardized operating procedure. Primary end point was successful closure, which was determined as endoscopic successful closure without leakage (detected by water-soluble contrast x-ray analysis), and absence of adverse events within 30 days after the procedure. RESULTS: Immediate closure was endoscopically successful in 33 patients (92%). One patient developed an esophageal perforation while the cap was introduced, and in 2 patients the perforations did not close; these 3 patients were successfully treated with surgery. None of the patients had leakage of soluble contrast on the basis of contrast x-ray. One patient with a closed colonic perforation deteriorated clinically within 6 hours after the procedure. Despite surgery, the patient died within 36 hours. The remaining 32 patients had successful endoluminal closures; the overall success rate was 89% (95% confidence interval, 75%-96%). The mean endoscopic closure time was 5 minutes 44 seconds 4 minutes 15 seconds. CONCLUSIONS: The Over-the-Scope-Clip is effective for endoluminal closure of acute iatrogenic perforations. It allows patients to avoid surgery, and 89% of patients had successful closures without adverse events.

Heartburn is the most common symptom associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease, and life-long proton pump inhibitor therapy is often required to control symptoms. Antireflux surgery is an alternative, but there may be significant side effects and the duration of therapeutic effect is variable. Several endoscopic antireflux techniques (E-ARTs) have been developed to enhance the function of the lower esophageal sphincter or alter the structure of the angle of His with the goal of recreating or augmenting the reflux barrier. Many methods are no longer available, and some await regulatory approval. This article reviews available data for the most common E-ARTs.

Endoscopic radiofrequency ablation (ERFA) is being evaluated as definitive treatment for patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE). Guidelines have yet to be developed for the application of this technology to patients with ultralong-segment BE (ULBE,or = 8 cm). This study reports a single institution's experience with ERFA of ULBE.A retrospective review of patients with ULBE undergoing ERFA from August 2005 to February 2009 was conducted. The entire segment of intestinal metaplasia (IM) was treated at each session using balloon- and/or plate-based devices (BARRX Medical, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA). Retreatments, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), dilations, and biopsies were performed based on endoscopic findings. Surveillance was conducted according to standard guidelines.Twenty-five patients (22 male) with a median age of 66 years [interquartile range (IQR) 57-74 years] were included. The length of BE treated was 10 cm (median; IQR 8-12 cm). Intramucosal carcinoma (IMC) was present in 3 patients, 15 had high-grade dysplasia (HGD), 6 had low-grade dysplasia (LGD), and 1 had IM without dysplasia. Complications for all 25 patients included hemorrhage (n = 1), stricture (n = 2), and nausea and vomiting (n = 2). Time from the initial procedure was such that 15 patients had postablation biopsies at least once. One patient with biopsies elected to undergo esophagectomy. Of these patients, 78.5% (11/14) had complete response (CR; no residual IM), two patients regressed from HGD to IM, and one patient with IMC had residual HGD and was treated with repeat EMR. The number of ablations in this group was 2.5 (median, IQR 2-3) during a median follow-up time of 20.3 months (IQR 10.4-29.2 months).ERFA is safe and feasible in patients with ULBE and can be applied to the entire length of IM during one session. Eradication of BE can be achieved with few repeat ablations and continued, vigilant surveillance.

Van Doorn et al recently reported that Endocuff, an endoscopic cap with plastic projections fitted onto the distal end of the colonoscope increases adenoma detection rates (ADRs).1 While the study is of impeccable design and the device demonstrates to be safe and helpful to improve the inspection of colonic folds, there remain open questions concerning the Endocuff as well as for similar novel ADR enhancing modalities currently emerging on the market. Do they merely improve ADR as a function of improved detection of diminutive adenomas, and if so does such an ‘enhanced’ ADR actually contribute to colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention? Are there potential downsides on cost-effectiveness through increased polypectomy rates, possible clinically futile shortened surveillance intervals with potential attendant complication risks? While ADR has …

Background and Aims The recently developed technique of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been shown to be effective for the therapy of esophageal motility disorders. Limited information is available about POEM adverse events (AEs). Methods POEM was performed on 241 patients (58% male; mean age, 47.4 ± 16.4 years) under general anesthesia over 61 months. The main outcome was the rate of intra- and post-procedural AEs. Post-procedural checks comprised clinical and laboratory examinations and endoscopy, with further follow-ups performed at 3, 6, and 12 months. Results Of the 241 procedures, 238 were successfully completed (mean procedure time, 100.2 ± 39.5 min). Reasons for abortion were excessive submucosal fibrosis preventing submucosal tunneling. Three patients had severe procedural-related AEs (SAE rate, 1.2%); 1 case of pneumothorax required intra-procedural drainage, and 2 patients had delayed SAEs (1 ischemic gastric cardia perforation and 1 hemothorax, both leading to surgery). The overall rate of minor AEs was 31.1%, mainly prolonged intra-procedural bleeding (>15 min hemostasis) and defects of the mucosa overlying the tunnel; none led to clinically relevant signs or symptoms. Patients experiencing any AE had a significantly prolonged hospital stay ( P = .037) and a trend toward prolonged procedure time ( P = .094). Neck/upper thoracic emphysema and free abdominal air were noted in 31.5% and 35.7%, respectively (95.3% drained), but without relevant sequelae. Conclusions POEM has a low rate of SAEs; minor AEs are more frequent but lack a consistent definition. Therefore, based on our experience and literature analysis, we suggest a classification of AEs for POEM. (Clinical trials registration number: NCT01405417.)

Interventional endoscopy has recently breached the boundaries of the gastrointestinal lumen, entering into the peritoneal cavity to perform natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) [1–3]. NOTES is defined as a surgical procedure in which visualization, dissection, and organ retraction is performed with flexible endoscopic instruments through the natural orifices of the body. NOTES is theoretically scarless, and therefore, incisional hernias and associated wound infections are avoided. Other potential benefits include reduced surgical trauma resulting in less postoperative pain and adhesion formation compared with laparoscopic surgery [3]. Currently, no randomized, controlled trial has demonstrated a true advantage of NOTES compared with laparoscopic surgery and the proposed benefits remain speculative. Thus far, and largely in animal laboratories, gastroenterologist and surgeon have opened and closed the gastrointestinal wall, peered into the peritoneal cavity, and demonstrated feasibility of organ resection [4, 5]. Why is it that despite being eager to perform endoscopic intraperitoneal surgery, gastroenterologists and surgeons have only scratched the surface of this novel surgical approach, which is still nowhere near primetime? When experts try to predict how NOTES could function, they normally look at the principles of laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery is performed with careful placement of trocars to optimize exposure and to permit triangulation. It is assumed that triangulation is necessary to create traction and countertraction and that this physical principle is what permits appropriate retraction, dissection, or suturing. Accordingly, many experts have suggested that flexible endoscopic surgery will need to emulate the same principles of triangulation to be an effective surgical approach [6, 7]. Several articles have proposed a triangulating endoscope as a key element for the success of NOTES [3, 8–11]. Consequently, NOTES research in recent years has been dominated by major efforts to develop devices and platforms that simulate triangulation and surgical tasks based on how they are performed in the laparoscopic environment. The first patent describing the concept of an endoscope with angulating end-effectors was filed by Mitsui for Olympus as early as 1974 (United States patent number 3,915,157). This patent was subsequently further refined and advanced to a prototype triangulating endoscopic platform filed for patent in 1999 (Matsui et al., United States Patent number 6,352,503). Despite these enduring efforts to build a triangulating endoscopic platform, no such device has become available for clinical use, and those among us who had the opportunity to work with triangulating prototypes have realized that triangulating end-effectors at the tip of a flexible endoscope may have inherited more problems than solutions. Using the flexible translumenal instead of a laparoscopic approach for intraperitoneal surgery does not nullify surgical principles and certain tasks, such as robust organ retraction and classic suturing, will likely require triangulation. There D. von Renteln (&) T. Rosch Department of Interdisciplinary Endoscopy, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrase. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany e-mail: renteln@gmx.net