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A 54-year-old male was admitted due to painless jaundice to our hospital four weeks after undergoing liver transplantation. Magnetic resonance imaging cholangiography demonstrated the presence of an anastomotic biliary stenosis.

Missed gastric cancer (MGC) is poorly documented in Mediterranean populations.(1) To assess the rate, predictors and survival of MGC. (2) To compare MGC and non-MGC tumors.This is a retrospective-cohort study conducted at four centers. MGC was defined as cancer detected within three years after negative esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Gastric adenocarcinomas diagnosed between 2008-2015 were included. Patients with no follow-up were excluded.During the study period 123,395 esophagogastroduodenoscopies were performed, with 1374 gastric cancers being diagnosed (1.1%). A total of 1289 gastric cancers were finally included. The overall rate of MGC was 4.7% (61/1289, 3.7-6%). A negative esophagogastroduodenoscopy in MGC patients was independently associated with PPI therapy (p 0.001), previous Billroth II anastomosis (p = 0.002), and lack of alarm symptoms (p 0.001). The most frequent location for MGC was the gastric body(52.4%). MGCs were smaller than non-MGCs (31 vs 41 mm, p = 0.047), more often flat or depressed (p = 0.003) and less likely to be encountered as advanced disease. Overall 2-year survival was similar between MGC (34.1%) and Non-MGC (35.3 %) (p = 0.59).MGC accounted for nearly five percent of newly-diagnosed gastric adenocarcinomas. Overall survival was poor and not different between MGC and non-MGC.

Background and Objectives: EUS-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) is increasingly utilized to manage unresectable malignant biliary obstruction after a failed ERCP. However, there is no data on how endoscopists perceive EUS-BD. The aim of this study was to investigate the perception of endoscopists on EUS-BD. Patients and Methods: A survey questionnaire of six topics with 22 survey statements was developed. A total of 17 pancreatobiliary endoscopists (10 from East and 7 from West) were invited to survey. The participants were asked to answer the multiple choice questionnaire and give comments. The opinions of the participants for individual survey statements were assessed using 5-point Likert scale. Results: All participants completed the survey. The endoscopists had a trend to perceive EUS-BD as a procedure indicated after a failed ERCP. Various EUS-BD methods were regarded as having different efficacy and safety. The superiority of EUS-BD over percutaneous transhepatic BD (PTBD) with regard to efficacy, procedure-related adverse events, and unscheduled re-intervention was not in agreement. Conclusions: EUS-BD was not yet perceived as the initial procedure to relieve the unresectable malignant biliary obstruction. Various EUS-BD methods were regarded as having different efficacy and safety. The superiority of EUS-BD over PTBD was not in agreement. Refining the procedure, developing dedicated devices, and gaining expertise in the procedure are necessary to popularize EUS-BD.

Few prospective studies have assessed the safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in elective endoscopy. Our primary aim was to compare the risks of endoscopy-related gastrointestinal bleeding and thromboembolic events in patients on DOACs or vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in this setting. Secondarily, we examined the impact of the timing of anticoagulant resumption on the risk of delayed bleeding in high-risk therapeutic procedures.We conducted a multicenter, prospective, observational study from January 2018 to March 2020 of 1602 patients on oral anticoagulants (1004 on VKAs and 598 on DOACs) undergoing 1874 elective endoscopic procedures. Our primary outcomes were 90-day thromboembolic events and 30-day endoscopy-related gastrointestinal bleeding. The inverse probability of treatment weighting propensity score method was used for baseline covariate adjustment.The 2 groups had similar risks of endoscopy-related gastrointestinal bleeding (VKAs vs DOACs, 6.2% vs 6.7%; adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.05; 95% CI, 0.67-1.65) and thromboembolic events (VKAs vs DOACs, 1.3% vs 1.5%; adjusted OR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.34-2.38). In high bleeding risk procedures (n = 747), delayed anticoagulant resumption (48 hours or 24-48 hours vs24 hours) did not reduce the risk of postprocedural bleeding (10.3%, 9%, and 5.8%, respectively; adjusted P = .43). Hot and cold snare polypectomy were the most frequent high-risk interventions (41.8% and 39.8%, respectively).In a prospective study of patients on DOACs or VKAs undergoing elective endoscopy, endoscopy-related bleeding and thromboembolic events showed similar risk. Our study suggests that early anticoagulant resumption is safe in most patients, but more data are needed for advanced high-risk therapeutic procedures.

Background and objectives EUS-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) offers minimally invasive decompression when conventional endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography fails. Stents can be placed from the intrahepatic ducts into the stomach (hepaticogastrostomy [HG]) or from the extrahepatic bile duct into the small intestine (choledochoduodenostomy [CCD]). Long-term patency of these stents is unknown. In this study, we aim to compare long-term patency of CCD versus HG. Methods Consecutive patients from 12 centers were included in a registry over 14 years. Demographics, procedure info, adverse events, and follow-up data were collected. Student's t-test, Chi-square, and logistic regression analyses were conducted. Only patients with at least 6-month follow-up or who died within 6-month postprocedure were included. Results One-hundred and eighty-two patients were included (93% male; mean age: 70; HG n = 95, CCD n = 87). No significant difference in indication, diagnosis, dissection instrument, or stent type was seen between the two groups. Technical success was 92% in both groups. Clinical success was achieved in 75/87 (86%) in the HG group and 80/80 (100%) in the CCD group. A trend toward higher adverse events was seen in the CCD group. A total of 25 patients out of 87 needed stent revision in the HG group (success rate 71%), while eight out of 80 were revised in the CCD group (success rate 90%). Chi square shows CCD success higher than HG (90% vs. 71%, P = 0.010). After adjusting for diagnosis, jaundice or cholangitis presentation, instrument used for dissection, and gender, CCD was 4.5 times more likely than HG to achieve longer stent patency or manage obstruction (odds ratio 4.5; 95% 1.1548-17.6500, P = 0.0302). Conclusion CCD is associated with superior long-term patency than HG but with a trend toward higher adverse events. This is particularly important in patients with increased survival. Additional studies are required before recommending a change in practice.

Background and study aims Traditionally in the case of a vascular interposition, endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) has been contraindicated. A transvascular route (TV) is feasible and probably a safe alternative approach in selected patients, but data are scarce. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the diagnostic yield and safety of EUS-TV-FNA in thoracic and abdominal lesions. Secondary aims included evaluation of the clinical impact and technical aspects. Patients and methods A retrospective multicenter study was conducted with inclusion of all consecutive patients that underwent EUS-TV-FNA from July 2007 to January 2020. Feasibility, cytopathology, procedure details, and safety were evaluated. Univariate analysis was performed to identify variables associated with incidents, cytopathological diagnosis, and clinical impact. Results Data were collected from a total of 49 cases and 50 EUS-TV-FNAs. The aorta (n = 19) and portal system (n = 17) were the most frequently punctured. The most frequent lesions were mediastinal lymph nodes (n = 13) and pancreatic tumors (n = 11). The diagnostic yield was 86 %, and there were nondiagnostic samples in seven cases. Overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 88 % (95 %CI,0.74–0.96), 100 % (95 %CI,0.59–1), and 90 % (95 %CI,0.78–0.96), respectively. Only three incidents were detected: two mural hematomas and a self-limited bleeding of gastroduodenal artery. In most patients, there was a significant impact on clinical management (88 %). Arterial vessel and ASA-III had a trend with incidents (both, P Conclusions EUS-TV-FNA is feasible, seems to be safe, and can be recommended when no other targets are available, and the information obtained would impact on the clinical plan.

Background It seems that lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) are displacing plastic stents in the therapy of pancreatic-fluid collection in walled-off necrosis (WON). To date, there is no quality of evidence to recommend LAMS as the standard treatment in the management of WON. The theoretical benefit of LAMS over plastic stents needs to be proven. Methods/design This is a randomized controlled, multicenter, prospective clinical trial with two parallel groups, without masking. One-hundred and fourteen patients with WON will undergo endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided transmural draining in nine tertiary hospitals in Spain and will be randomized to the LAMS or plastic-stent group. The primary endpoint is the short-term (4 weeks) clinical success determined by the reduction of the collection (to Discussion The PROMETHEUS trial has been designed to determine whether LAMS are superior to plastic stents in EUS-guided transmural drainage of WON. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03100578. Registered on 4 April 2017. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/home

BACKGROUND this study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the Endofaster® for the detection of Helicobacter pylori. METHODS during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, gastric juice was aspirated to perform an analysis using the Endofaster®. This test was considered as positive when the ammonium concentration was > 67 ppm, negative when < 57 ppm and weakly positive between 57 and 67. Biopsy specimens were also taken as the gold standard. RESULTS among the 86 patients enrolled in the study, the Endofaster® result was positive in 23.7%, negative in 54.7% and weakly positive in 11.6%, whereas infection was detected via histology in 38.4% of patients. The accuracy was 81.4%, with a Kappa value of 0.57. CONCLUSIONS the Endofaster® could be useful to perform a rapid diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection (area under the curve = 0.81).

Introduction Lumen apposing metal stents (LAMS) have been used increasingly for drainage of pancreatic fluid collections (PFC). We present an international, multicenter study evaluating the safety and efficacy of LAMS in PFCs. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing LAMS placement for PFC at 12 international centers were included ( ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01522573). Demographics, clinical history, and procedural details were recorded. Technical success was defined as successful LAMS deployment. Clinical success was defined as PFC resolution at three-month follow-up. Results 192 patients were included (140 males (72.9%), mean-age 53.8 years), with mean follow-up of 4.2 months ± 3.8. Mean PFC size was 11.9 cm (range 2–25). The median number of endoscopic interventions was 2 (range 1–14). Etiologies for PFC were gallstone (n = 82, 42.7%), alcohol (n = 50, 26%), idiopathic (n = 26, 13.5%), and other (n = 34, 17.7%). Technical success was achieved in 189 patients (98.4%). Clinical success was observed in 125 of 135 patients (92.6%). Adverse events included bleeding (n = 11, 5.7), infection (n = 2, 1%), and perforation (n = 2, 1%). Three or more endoscopy sessions were a positive predictor for PFC resolution and the only significant predictor for AEs. Conclusion LAMS has a high technical and clinical success rate with a low rate of AEs. PFC drainage via LAMS provides a minimally invasive, safe, and efficacious procedure for PFC resolution.

The growing incidence of cystic pancreatic tumours has become a major problem in daily clinical practice. These patients usually undergo follow-up programmes of questionable clinical efficacy that put significant strain on endoscopy units. Safe and effective alternatives to surgery are desperately needed in these cases. The aim of this study was to critically review the utility of ablative therapies in cystic pancreatic tumours.

Endoscopic treatment of pancreatic ductal malformations causing recurrent acute pancreatitis, such as pancreas divisum or ansa pancreatica, is mainly based on the sphincterotomy of the minor papilla. However, the technical complexity of conventional endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is increased in patients presenting anatomical variants like these and it may be unsuccessful. We report the case of a pancreas divisum combined with ansa pancreatica and describe the cannulation and sphincterotomy of the minor papilla using an ultrasound-assisted Rendez-Vous technique.

Purpose Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a poor prognosis. Hereditary factors play a role in the development of PDAC in 3% to 5% of all patients. Surveillance of high-risk groups, may facilitate detection of PDAC at an early stage. The aim of this study was to assess whether surveillance aids detection of early-stage PDAC or precursor lesions (PRLs) and improves the prognosis. Patients and Methods Screening outcomes were collected from three European centers that conduct prospective screening in high-risk groups including families with clustering of PDAC (familial pancreatic cancer [FPC]) or families with a gene defect that predisposes to PDAC. The surveillance program consisted of annual magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, and/or endoscopic ultrasound. Results Four hundred eleven asymptomatic individuals participated in the surveillance programs, including 178 CDKN2A mutation carriers, 214 individuals with FPC, and 19 BRCA1/2 or PALB2 mutation carriers. PDAC was detected in 13 (7.3%) of 178 CDKN2A mutation carriers. The resection rate was 75%, and the 5-year survival rate was 24%. Two CDKN2A mutation carriers (1%) underwent surgical resection for low-risk PRL. Two individuals (0.9%) in the FPC cohort had a pancreatic tumor, including one advanced PDAC and one early grade 2 neuroendocrine tumor. Thirteen individuals with FPC (6.1%) underwent surgical resection for a suspected PRL, but only four (1.9%) had high-risk lesions (ie, high-grade intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms or grade 3 pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasms). One BRCA2 mutation carrier was found to have PDAC, and another BRCA2 mutation carrier and a PALB2 mutation carrier underwent surgery and were found to have low-risk PRL. No serious complications occurred as consequence of the program. Conclusion Surveillance of CDNK2A mutation carriers is relatively successful, detecting most PDACs at a resectable stage. The benefit of surveillance in families with FPC is less evident.

Background EUS-guided cholangiopancreatography (ESCP) allows transmural access to biliopancreatic ducts when ERCP fails. Data regarding technical details, safety, and outcomes of ESCP are still unknown. Objective To evaluate outcomes of ESCP in community and referral centers at the initial development phase of this procedure, to identify the ESCP stages with higher risk of failure, and to evaluate the influence on outcomes of factors related to the endoscopist. Design Multicenter retrospective study. Setting Public health system hospitals with experience in ESCP in Spain. Patients A total of 125 patients underwent ESCP in 19 hospitals, with an experience of Intervention ESCP. Main Outcome Measurements Technical success and complication rates in the initial phase of implantation of ESCP are described. The influence of technical characteristics and endoscopist features on outcomes was analyzed. Results A total of 125 patients from 19 hospitals were included. Biliary ESCP was performed in 106 patients and pancreatic ESCP was performed in 19. Technical success was achieved in 84 patients (67.2%) followed by clinical success in 79 (63.2%). Complications occurred in 29 patients (23.2%). Unsuccessful manipulation of the guidewire was responsible for 68.2% of technical failures, and 58.6% of complications were related to problems with the transmural fistula. Limitations Retrospective study. Conclusion Outcomes of ESCP during its implantation stage reached a technical success rate of 67.2%, with a complication rate of 23.2%. Intraductal manipulation of the guidewire seems to be the most difficult stage of the procedure.

Background: endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) are the elective tests in the diagnosis of choledocholithiasis. MRC is best accepted by patients, but its sensitivity might decrease in the evaluation of microlithiasis. Aim: to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic impact of EUS in a prospective cohort of patients with intermediate suspicion of choledocolithiasis and no findings in MRC (normal MRC). Material and methods: during a period of 24 months, all the patients with clinical intermediate suspicion of choledocholithiasis and normal MRC were included. Sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of MRC and EUS were compared, and so their impact in the management of these patients. Results: seventy six patients were evaluated (lithiasis in 30% of them). Sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy of EUS (100%, 92%) were significantly higher than MRC values (0%, 70%) (p < 0.05). EUS findings (suspicion of choledocholithiasis) favored a significant change in therapeutic attitude (therapeutic ERCP was performed) in 38% of the patients (in which MRC had ruled out the presence of choledocholithiasis, and so, ERCP had not been performed) (p < 0.05). Conclusions: EUS allows the diagnosis of lithiasis in approximately 1/3 of patients with intermediate suspicion of choledocholithiasis and normal MRC. EUS findings involve a significant change in the management of these patients; this supports the use of EUS in clinical practice.

Diagnosis of Wilson's disease (WD) is reliant on liver biopsy (LB) and measurement of hepatic copper. The aim of this study was to determine the usefulness of penicillamine-stimulated urinary copper excretion (PS-UCE), a non-invasive diagnostic test, for the diagnosis of WD in adults.In this prospective study of patients with suspected WD, total serum copper, ceruloplasmin, basal 24-h UCE and PS-UCE levels were measured. LB with copper determination was performed in those patients with persistent hypertransaminasemia and low ceruloplasmin or basal UCE40 microg/24 h. Diagnosis was established if the ceruloplasmin level was found to be20 mg/dl and hepatic copper250 microg/g. Results. A total of 115 patients were studied; LB was performed in 43, and WD was diagnosed in 6 (13.9%). Significant differences between WD and non-WD patients were found for basal UCE (WD: median 134.3 microg/24 h versus non-WD: median 19.0 microg/24 h (p0.05)) and PS-UCE (WD: median 1284.0 microg/24 h versus non-WD: median 776.0 microg/24 h; p0.01). In the ROC (receiver-operated curve) analysis, PS-UCE was the best discriminant between WD and non-WD (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.911, best cut-off point 1057 microg/24 h, 100% sensitivity, 82.3% specificity).PS-UCE is probably a useful non-invasive test in the diagnosis of WD, improving the selection of patients for diagnostic liver biopsy. Patients with PS-UCE under 1057 microg/24 h only rarely will suffer from WD and are unlikely to benefit from LB.

Background Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration is highly accurate for the diagnosis of malignancies surrounding the gastrointestinal tract. There is a lack of information on the usefulness of this technique in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer recurrence. Objective The purpose of this work was to investigate the performance characteristics of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration for the cytologic diagnosis of perirectal recurrence of colorectal cancer. Design This was a retrospective study on the clinical and radiologic suspicion of perirectal recurrence of colorectal cancer. Settings The study was conducted at 4 tertiary hospitals. Patients Consecutive patients with suspicion of perirectal recurrence of colorectal cancer undergoing endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration between 2000 and 2013 were included in this study. Interventions The study intervention was endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration. Main outcome measures Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration performance characteristics and outcome (malignant or benign) were analyzed. The gold standard was cytologic results if malignancy or follow-up if benignity. Results A total of 58 patients were included (32 men; mean age, 64.2 ± 10.0 years [range, 44-88 years]). The location of the initial neoplasm was the rectum for 42 patients and the colon for 16 patients. Endoscopic ultrasound findings included a mass in the anastomosis (n = 8), perirectal fat (n = 23), lymph nodes (n = 20), or asymmetric thickness of the rectal wall (n = 6). Cytology showed malignancy in 38 patients (67%), benign features in 17 (30%), and was not evaluable in 2. Mean follow-up to confirm a benign outcome was 51.3 ± 30.3 months (range, 5.2-180.0 months). Final outcome was recurrence in 40 patients (69%) and benignity in 18 patients (31%). Performance characteristics of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration were sensitivity (97%), specificity (100%), positive predictive value (100%), negative predictive value (94%), and accuracy (98%). In the intention to diagnose analysis, the corresponding values were 95%, 100%, 100%, 90%, and 96%. Limitations This was a retrospective series with a limited number of patients. Conclusions Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration is a highly accurate tool for the cytologic diagnosis of perirectal recurrence in patients with previous colorectal cancer.

Background and Aims Pancreatic cysts and solid lesions are routinely examined by EUS-guided FNA (EUS-FNA). The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of adverse events (AEs) of this procedure by using the lexicon recommended by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). Methods This was a prospective and comparative study of patients who underwent EUS-FNA in which a 22-gauge needle was used. In the pancreatic cystic lesions group (group I), complete fluid evacuation in a single needle pass was attempted, and ciprofloxacin was given during the procedure and for 3 days after. In the pancreatic solid lesions group (group II), the number of passes was determined by the on-site evaluation of the sample. AEs were defined and graded according to the lexicon recommended by the ASGE. Patients were followed for 48 hours, 1 week, and 1 month after the procedure. Results A total of 146 patients were included, 73 in group I and 73 in group II. Potential factors influencing the incidence of AEs (ie, access route for FNA) were similar in both groups. AEs occurred in 5 of 146 patients (3.4%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3%-8%): 4 in group I (5.5%; 95% CI, 1.7%-13.7%) and 1 in group II (1.4%; 95% CI, −0.5% to 8.1%) ( P = .03). Severity was mild in 1 of 5 patients (20%) and moderate in 3 of 5 patients (60%). One patient with a solid mass in the head of the pancreas had a duodenal perforation after EUS and died after surgery. All other AEs occurred in the first 48 hours and resolved with medical therapy. There were 3 incidents of transient hypoxia and self-limited abdominal pain in 1 and 2 patients, respectively. No patients were lost to follow-up. Conclusion EUS-FNA of pancreatic cysts has an AEs rate similar to that of solid pancreatic masses, which is small enough to consider this procedure a safe and effective method for managing patients with both types of lesions. AEs occurred early after EUS-FNA, and patients should be closely followed during the first 2 days after the procedure.

Purpose To describe the organisation of the registry and the preliminary results in terms of characteristics of high-risk pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) families recruited to date and findings of the screening programme. To compare early onset sporadic cases (⩽50 years), sporadic cases (>50 years) and cases with family history of cancer, for PDAC possible risk factors. Methods/patients Families with hereditary cancer syndromes predisposing to PDAC were recruited from two main sources: Spanish hospitals participating in PanGenEU, a pan-European multicentre case–control study, and their genetic counseling unit. Individuals at high-risk of PDAC were enrolled into a screening programme, consisting of Endoscopic ultrasound, computerised tomography, magnetic resonance imaging. Genetic testing of candidate genes was offered according to each patient’s risk. Results Among 577 consecutive PDAC cases, recruited via PanGenEU, 36 (6%) had ⩾2 first-degree relative with PDAC: Familial pancreatic cancer (FPC). So far PanGen-Fam has recruited 42 high-risk PDAC families; 25 (60%) had FPC. Five index cases with cancer were positive for BRCA2 and one for BRCA1 germline mutations. In the second year of prospective PDAC screening, one neuroendocrine tumour and a high-grade dysplasia lesion suspicious of carcinoma were diagnosed among 41 high-risk individuals. Furthermore EUS detected chronic-pancreatitis-like parenchymal changes in 15 patients. Concluding statement The identification and recruitment of PDAC high-risk families into the PanGen-Fam registry provides an opportunity to detect early onset cancer and precursor pancreatic cancer lesions at a potentially curative stage and to increase the knowledge of the natural history of the disease.

Improvement in esophageal cancer staging is needed. Positron emission tomography (PET), computed tomography (CT), and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in the staging of esophageal carcinoma were compared. PET, CT, and EUS were performed and interpreted prospectively in 75 patients with newly diagnosed esophageal cancer. Either tissue confirmation or fine needle aspiration (FNA) was used as the gold standard of disease. Sensitivity and specificity for tumor, nodal, and metastatic (TNM) disease for each test were determined. TNM categorizations from each test were used to assign patients to subgroups corresponding to the three treatment plans that patients could theoretically receive, and these were then compared. Local tumor staging (T) was done correctly by CT and PET in 42% and by EUS in 71% of patients (P value > 0.14). The sensitivity and specificity for nodal involvement (N) by modality were 84% and 67% for CT, 86% and 67% for EUS, and 82% and 60% for PET (P value > 0.38). The sensitivity and specificity for distant metastasis were 81% and 82% for CT, 73% and 86% for EUS, and 81% and 91% for PET (P value > 0.25). Treatment assignment was done correctly by CT in 65%, by EUS in 75%, and by PET in 70% of patients (P value > 0.34). EUS had superior T staging ability over PET and CT in our study group. The tests showed similar performance in nodal staging and there was a trend toward improved distant disease staging with CT or PET over EUS. Assignment to treatment groups in relation to TNM staging tended to be better by EUS. Each test contributed unique patient staging information on an individual basis.

EUS is an important modality for the diagnosis of pancreatic disease. An understanding of normal pancreatic ductal and parenchymal variation in asymptomatic individuals is essential to improve EUS accuracy. The primary aim of this study was to determine age-related pancreatic parenchymal and ductular changes identifiable on EUS in individuals with no history or symptoms of pancreaticobiliary disease. Secondary aims were to define demographic and clinical factors associated with identifiable pancreatic parenchymal and ductular changes, and to determine the main pancreatic-duct diameter and pancreatic-gland width according to age.Patients referred for either upper endoscopy or EUS for an indication unrelated to pancreaticobiliary disease were prospectively enrolled. Patients were stratified by age (40, 40-60,60 years). Each patient was assessed for the presence of EUS findings for chronic pancreatitis. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with an abnormality.A total of 120 patients (63 men, 57 women; median age, 52 years, interquartile range [IQR] 40-61 years) were prospectively evaluated. At least one parenchymal and/or ductular abnormality was identified in 28% of the patients, with a trend of increasing abnormality with age:40 years (23%), 40 to 60 years (25%), and60 years (39%); p = 0.13. No patient had more than 3 abnormal EUS features. Hyperechoic stranding (n = 22) was the most common finding in all age groups. The odds for any abnormality in men (relative to women) was significantly higher (OR 2.9: 95% CI[1.2, 6.8], p = 0.01), with 38% of men and 18% of women having an abnormality. Smoking, low alcohol intake, body mass index, and endoscopic finding were not significantly associated with an abnormal EUS. The overall median pancreatic-gland width and main pancreatic duct diameter were 15 mm (IQR 6-25 mm) and 1.7 mm (IQR 0.9-4.3 mm), respectively.The frequency of EUS abnormalities in patients without clinical evidence of chronic pancreatitis increases with age, particularly after 60 years of age. The threshold number of EUS criteria for the diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis is variable. However, the typically used standard of 3 or more criteria appears appropriate. A higher number of threshold criteria may be needed in males and to a lesser extent in patients over 40 years of age, which should be related to clinical history and other structural or functional studies. Ductal or parenchymal calculi, ductal narrowing, ductal dilatation, or more than 3 abnormalities appear to be more specific features for the EUS diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis at any age.

Background: There are few data regarding the risk of bacteremia with EUS-guided FNA. This study prospectively evaluated the frequency of bacteremia and other infectious complications after EUS-guided FNA. Methods: Patients referred for EUS-guided FNA of the upper GI tract lesions were considered for enrollment. Patients were excluded if there was an indication for preprocedure administration of antibiotics based on ASGE guidelines, had taken antibiotics within the prior 7 days, or if they had a pancreatic cystic lesion. Blood cultures were obtained immediately before the procedure, after routine endoscopy/radial EUS, and 15 minutes after EUS-guided FNA. Results: Fifty-two patients underwent EUS-guided FNA at 74 sites (mean 1.4 sites/patient) totaling 266 passes of the fine needle (mean 5.1 FNA/patient). Coagulase negative Staphylococcus was grown in cultures from 3 patients (5.8%; 95% CI [1%, 15%]) and was considered a contaminant. Three patients (5.8%; 95% CI [1%, 15%]) developed bacteremia: Streptococcus viridans (n = 2), unidentified gram-negative bacillus (n = 1). No signs or symptoms of infection developed in any patient. Conclusion: EUS-guided FNA of solid lesions in the upper GI tract should be considered a low-risk procedure for infectious complications that does not warrant prophylactic administration of antibiotics for prevention of bacterial endocarditis. (Gastrointest Endosc 2003;57:672-8.)

Background: Cholangiography and tissue sampling (brush cytology, biopsy) are the standard nonsurgical techniques for determining whether a bile duct stricture is benign or malignant. The aim of this study was to determine whether intraductal US is of assistance in distinguishing benign from malignant biliary strictures. Methods: A retrospective review was undertaken of 30 patients with indeterminate bile duct strictures who underwent ERCP and tissue sampling from September 1999 to November 2000. A 20 MHz over-the-guidewire intraductal US catheter probe was used during ERCP for further examination of the strictures. Final diagnoses of malignant strictures (18 patients) were confirmed histopathologically; confirmation of benign stricture (12 patients) was based on negative tissue sampling plus extended clinical follow-up. Results: Based on retrospective blinded review, the diagnosis by ERCP was correct in 67% of patients, by tissue sampling in 68%, by combined ERCP/tissue sampling in 67%, and by intraductal US in 90% ( p = 0.04 vs. ERCP/tissue sampling) of cases. No complication of intraductal US or ERCP was recorded. Conclusions: Intraductal US is safe and can improve on the ability at ERCP to distinguish benign from malignant biliary strictures. (Gastrointest Endosc 2002;56:372-9.)

Background: The aims of this study were to determine the feasibility, safety, and yield of a 19-gauge EUS-guided-trucut needle for obtaining biopsy specimens of perigastric organs. Methods: The study was performed in swine under general anesthesia. EUS-guided trucut needle biopsy specimens were obtained from the spleen, liver, pancreas body, and left kidney. Biopsy specimens were assessed for size, fragmentation, and representation of the target organ. Observations: Twenty-eight biopsy specimens were obtained from the 4 target organs with two needles. Median biopsy length was 6 mm (spleen), 4 mm (liver), 6 mm (left kidney), and 2 mm (pancreas body). Of all the specimens, 75% to 100% had tissue representative of the target organ. EUS visualization of the needle was excellent and no complications were identified. Conclusions: Use of the trucut needle under EUS guidance to obtain biopsy specimens of perigastric organs appears safe and yields specimens that are representative of the target organ sampled. Further study of the utility and safety of this needle in humans is warranted.

Background and Aims. EUS-FNA is an accurate and safe technique to biopsy mediastinal lymph nodes. However, there are few data pertaining to the role of EUS-FNA to biopsy central lung masses. The aim of the study was to assess the diagnostic yield and safety of EUS-FNA of indeterminate central mediastinal lung masses. Methods. Design: Retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database; noncomparative. Setting: Tertiary referral center. From 10/2004 to 12/2010, all patients with a lung mass located within proximity to the esophagus were referred for EUS-FNA. Main Outcome Measurement: EUS-FNA diagnostic accuracy and safety. Results. 73 consecutive patients were included. EUS allowed detection in 62 (85%) patients with lack of visualization prohibiting FNA in 11 patients. Among sampled lesions, one patient (1/62 = 1.6%) had a benign lung mass (hamartoma), while the remaining 61 patients (61/62 = 98.4%) had a malignant mass (primary lung cancer: 55/61 = 90%; lung metastasis: 6/61 = 10%). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of EUS-FNA were 96.7%, 100%, and 96.7%, respectively. The sensitivity was 80.8% when considering nonvisualized masses. One patient developed a pneumothorax (1/62 = 1.6%). Conclusions. EUS-FNA appears to be an accurate and safe technique for tissue diagnosis of central mediastinal lung masses.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) allows one to efficiently image the posterior mediastinum in search for lesions (1). In patients who present with dysphagia EUS has been shown to be useful, as it may help identify rare entities causing these symptoms (e.g. dysphagia lusoria caused by aberrant right subclavian artery; dysphagia caused by an anterior cervical spine osteophyte) (2-4). These infrequent causes of dysphagia and their EUS appearance were relatively unknown for most endosonographers until its recent publication in endoscopy journals (2-4). The case of a 62-year-old male with unremarkable past medical history who was referred for EUS due to unexplained dysphagia (normal manometry, radiology and endoscopy) is presented. EUS examination of the upper mediastinum showed no lesion or compression in the esophageal wall (vascular or spine) that may be responsible for symptoms. Surprisingly, when searching for causes of these symptoms we identified a “roundish” lesion posterior to the esophagus, with “solid and cystic/anechoic component”. The aforementioned lesion was only visible between two spinal vertebral bodies, at the level of the intervertebral disc that allowed ultrasound waves to reach the spinal cord (Figs. 1 and 2). This atypical finding may be difficult to interpret and may misslead the endosonographer towards an incorrect diagnosis like “posterior mediastinum tumor”.

This article is part of a combined publication that expresses the current view of the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) about endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided sampling in gastroenterology, including EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) and EUS-guided trucut biopsy (EUS-TCB), of submucosal tumors, diffuse esophageal/gastric wall thickening, pancreatic solid masses and cystic-appearing lesions, mediastinal lesions unrelated to lung or esophageal cancer, cancer of the esophagus, stomach, and rectum, lymph nodes of unknown origin, adrenal gland masses, and focal liver lesions. False-positive cytopathological results and needle tract seeding are also discussed. The present Clinical Guideline describes the results of EUS-guided sampling in the different clinical settings, considers the role of this technique in patient management, and makes recommendations on circumstances that warrant its use. A two-page executive summary of evidence statements and recommendations is provided. A separate Technical Guideline describes the general technique of EUS-guided sampling, particular techniques to maximize the diagnostic yield depending on the nature of the target lesion, and sample processing. The target readership for the Clinical Guideline mostly includes gastroenterologists, oncologists, internists, and surgeons while the Technical Guideline should be most useful to endoscopists who perform EUS-guided sampling.

While endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) are the most accurate techniques for locoregional staging of esophageal cancer, little evidence exists that these innovations impact on clinical care. The objective on this study was to determine the frequency with which EUS and EUS-FNA alter the management of patients with localized esophageal cancer, and assess practice variation among specialists at a tertiary care center. Three gastroenterologists, three medical oncologists, three radiation oncologists and four thoracic surgeons were asked to independently report their management recommendations as the anonymized staging information of 50 prospectively enrolled patients from another study were sequentially disclosed on-line. Compared to initial management recommendations, that were based upon history, physical examination, upper endoscopy and CT scan results, EUS prompted a change in management 24% (95% CI: 12–36%) of the time; usually to a more resource-intensive approach (71%), for example from recommending palliation to recommending neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy. EUS-FNA plus cytology results altered management an additional 8% (95% CI: 6–15%) of the time. Agreement between specialists ranged from fair (intraclass correlation [ICC = 0.32) to substantial (ICC = 0.65); improving with additional information. Among specialists, agreement was greatest for patients with stage I disease. EUS and EUS-FNA changed patient management the most for patients with stages IIA, IIB or III disease. EUS, with or without FNA, significantly impacts the management of patients with localized esophageal cancer. With respect to the optimal treatment for each patient, agreement among physicians incrementally increases with endoscopic ultrasound results. Specialty training appears to influence therapeutic decision-making behavior.

Background EUS-guided FNA (EUS-FNA) is the most accurate method for lymph-node staging of esophageal carcinoma; however, it may not be necessary when EUS features are present that strongly suggest a benign or a malignant origin. Aims (1) To identify a combination of EUS criteria that have a sufficient sensitivity and specificity to preclude the need for EUS-FNA and (2) to assess the cost savings derived from a selective EUS-FNA approach. Methods A total of 144 patients with esophageal carcinoma were prospectively evaluated with EUS. Accuracy of standard (hypoechoic, smooth border, round, or width > 5 mm) and modified (4 standard plus EUS identified celiac lymph nodes, >5 lymph nodes, or EUS T3/4 tumor) criteria were compared (receiver operating characteristic curves). Resource utilization of two diagnostic strategies, routine (all patients with lymph nodes) and selective EUS-FNA (FNA only in those patients in whom the number of EUS malignant criteria provides a sensitivity and a specificity Results Modified EUS criteria for lymph-node staging were more accurate than standard criteria (area under the curve 0.88 vs. 0.78, respectively). No criterion alone was predictive of malignancy; sensitivity and specificity reached 100% when a cutoff value of >1 and >6 modified criteria were used, respectively. The EUS-FNA selective approach may avoid performing FNA in 61 patients (42%). Conclusions Modified EUS lymph-node criteria are more accurate than standard criteria. A selective EUS-FNA approach reduced the cost by avoiding EUS-FNA in 42% of patients with esophageal carcinoma. These results require confirmation in future studies.

242 Background: The prognosis of patients diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer (PC) is dismal with a 5-year survival rate of around 5%. Familial Pancreatic Cancer (FPC) is an autosomal dominant rare syndrome defined as families with two or more first-degree relatives with pancreatic cancer that do not fulfill the criteria of any other inherited tumor syndrome. The Spanish familial pancreatic cancer registry, Pan-Gen-FAM was established in 2009 in order to identify and manage families at high risk of developing PC. Methods: Information on the family history of cancer is collected in order to determine the phenotype of individual families and patients are offered genetic testing of known FPC associated genes pertinent to their familial syndrome. An individualized clinical screening program is devised for the early detection of a pancreatic tumor consisting of periodic monitoring by imaging techniques (EUS and MRI) and the evaluation of minimally-invasive tumor biomarkers approaches including Circulating Tumor Cells (CTC) and circulating free DNA in blood. Results: To date the registry includes 125 individuals representing some 41 families. Of 17 families tested so far BRCA2 germline mutations were detected in 5 families and a BRCA1 mutation in 1 family. 43 individuals underwent clinical screening. More pancreatic abnormalities were found by EUS (41%) than by MRI (31%). The most frequent abnormal findings were parenchymal changes associated with chronic pancreatitis. Eight cystic lesions were identified. One lesion was identified as a well differentiated neuroendocrine tumor and another was shown to have benign cytology and whilst carcinoma was found in a third patient, this patient underwent a subsequent partial pancreatectomy. The remaining patients with cystic lesions are undergoing close clinical observation. Seventy three patients underwent CTC determinations and all patients tested negative. Conclusions: Periodic screening of high risk individuals by EUS and RMI can detect small tumors and premalignant lesions. We hypothesize that these persons will have a higher probability of long-term survival than sporadic cases.

Background: Existing EUS catheter probes have limited depth of penetration and lack color flow and Doppler capabilities. This study prospectively assessed the feasibility and safety of using a phased vector array US catheter in the human GI tract. Methods: Eleven patients underwent EUS with a steerable 9F phased vector array catheter. Images obtained with the catheter were compared with standard EUS images. Results: The GI wall layers were equally well imaged with the catheter compared with standard echoendoscopes in 90% of the cases. Images of the liver, spleen, pancreatic parenchyma, and pancreatic duct were of equal quality and resolution with both techniques in the majority of patients. Some deeper structures and blood vessels were better visualized with the catheter. No complications were encountered. Conclusion: The steerable phased vector array US catheter is a safe device when used in the GI tract and offers images comparable with those obtained with a dedicated echoendoscope. Further studies are needed to determine the accuracy of tumor staging and clinical utility of this device.

Background: Localization of neuroendocrine tumors may be challenging. The role of EUS-FNA in this setting is unknown. Methods: Ten patients with clinically suspected functioning neuroendocrine tumors (hormonal disturbances) underwent EUS-FNA to determine the location and to confirm the diagnosis cytologically. Observations: EUS identified 14 tumors in these 10 patients. In all but one patient CT did not demonstrate the tumor or missed at least one of multiple lesions. Mean tumor size was 12 mm (range 4-25 mm). Tumor locations were pancreas (n = 13) and duodenal wall (n = 1). Eleven of the 14 detected lesions were aspirated under EUS with accurate diagnosis in all cases. Surgical confirmation of EUS-FNA findings was available in 7 patients. There was no complication of EUS-FNA. Conclusions: EUS is a highly accurate technique for visualization of small functioning neuroendocrine tumors not evident on CT and for identification of patients with multiple lesions. EUS-FNA safely provides cytologic confirmation with high accuracy in these patients.

Background: EUS requires a significant capital outlay. The ability to perform high-resolution phased array scanning and Doppler interrogation by using a catheter that interfaces with a standard US console could increase the accessibility of EUS. Recently, an electronic phased-array US catheter was developed for intracardiac use. To date, this technology has not been applied to the GI tract. The aim of this study is to determine the feasibility and imaging characteristics of a new phased array scanning US catheter in the GI tract. Methods: Swine were placed under general anesthesia. This study used a 100 cm, 10F, torquable catheter with 4-way tip deflection to greater than 90 degrees. The catheter tip houses a phased vector array transducer with variable frequency (5.5-10 MHz) and variable focal distance. It has pulsed/color and power Doppler capability. The probe was passed through a therapeutic flexible sigmoidoscope into the upper GI tract. Acoustic coupling was achieved via a condom filled with water or by gastric water infusion. Needle visualization experiments were performed with a second endoscope (also passed per oral) with a standard EUS-guided fine needle aspiration needle. Results: Acoustic coupling was easily achieved. Resolution of the GI wall into characteristic layers (esophagus 5, stomach 7) was demonstrated. At 5.5 MHz, tissue resolution and Doppler imaging were excellent to greater than 10 cm from the transducer. A 22-gauge EUS-guided fine needle aspiration needle was easily visualized at depth greater than 4 cm. Flow in gastric, hepatic, and pancreatic parenchymal vessels approximately 1 mm diameter was visualized by using power and color Doppler. Conclusions: This 10F array US catheter is capable of high-resolution two-dimensional imaging of the gut wall as well as high-quality Doppler imaging. The Doppler capabilities of this equipment may have new GI applications.

Background: Complications with EUS-guided fine needle aspiration cytology (EUS-guided FNA) are rare and include perforation, infection, pancreatitis, and intraluminal bleeding. To date, the ultrasound appearance and clinical significance of perilesional bleeding during EUS-guided FNA have not been described. The aim of this study was to analyze the frequency of acute extraluminal hemorrhage associated with EUS-guided FNA. Methods: From September 1998 to October 1999 EUS-guided FNA was performed during 227 of 1104 EUS procedures. Patient follow-up and complications were recorded and retrospectively analyzed. Observations: Three patients were identified with acute extraluminal hemorrhage at the site of the aspiration during EUS (frequency 1.3%: 95% CI [0%, 2.8%]). The bleeding manifested as an expanding echopoor region adjacent to the sampled lesion. No clinically recognizable sequela arose from the bleeding. All patients were treated with a short course of antibiotics and outpatient observation. Preprocedure coagulation and platelet assessment did not predict which patients were at risk for this complication. Conclusion: Acute extraluminal hemorrhage occurring during EUS-guided FNA is a rare complication with a characteristic ultrasound appearance. Recognition of this event might be important to allow the endoscopist to terminate the procedure and thereby minimize the potential for more serious bleeding.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is an imaging technique that has consolidated its role as an important tool for diagnosis and therapeutics. In recent years we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of EUS-guided therapeutic indications (celiac plexus neurolysis/block, pseudocyst drainage, etc). Preliminary reports have suggested EUS may also be used to guide vascular access for both imaging and treating different vascular diseases. This review aims to objectively describe the existing evidence in the field.