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Background: Autoimmune gastritis (AIG) is an infrequent disease predisposing to both neuroendocrine tumours and cancer. This study aimed to evaluate whether pH measurement of gastric juice allows accurate exclusion of the presence of AIG in real time so that gastric mucosa sampling on normal-appearing mucosa may be avoided. Methods: This study enrolled patients diagnosed with AIG and matched controls (ratio 1:5) who underwent upper endoscopy with standard gastric mucosa sampling and real-time, gastric juice pH assessment. A threshold of pH less than 4.5 was adopted as cut-off to rule out the presence of a feature of AIG. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), overall accuracy, positive likelihood ratio (LR+), and negative likelihood ratio (LR−) were calculated. Results: Data of 40 patients (M/F: 19/21; mean age: 58 years, range: 18–89) with AIG and 212 matched controls were evaluated. Among AIG patients, the feature of atrophy/metaplasia of the oxyntic mucosa was staged as mild in 9 cases, moderate in 9, and severe in the remaining 22 patients. Gastric juice analysis showed a pH value >4.5 in 29 (72.5%) patients and 12 (5.7%) controls. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, PPV, NPV, LR+, and LR− were 73% (95% CI = 0.57–0.84), 94% (95% CI = 0.90–0.97), 71% (95% CI = 0.64–0.74), 95% (95% CI = 0.93–0.97), 91% (95% CI = 0.87–0.95), 12.9 (95% CI = 7.19–23.03), and 0.29 (95% CI = 0.18–0.48), respectively. The histological assessment of false-negative cases showed the presence of only mild-moderate atrophy of oxyntic mucosa in 6 (54.5%) cases, and severe in the others. Conclusions: Our data found that real-time pH evaluation of gastric juice allows ruling out AIG with a very high NPV, but further studies are needed.

Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are commonly used for glucose lowering and weight-loss. However, their association with gastrointestinal cancer remains uncertain. This meta-analysis assesses the risk of gastrointestinal cancer in patients treated with GLP-1 RAs. Methods: We searched Medline/PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases from inception to November 15, 2023, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with at least 24 weeks of safety follow-up. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) were calculated using fixed- and random-effect models. Risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, and certainty of evidence was determined using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. Results: We included 90 RCTs with 124,791 participants, with an average follow-up of 3.1 years per participant. No significant association was found between GLP-1 RAs and the risk of any gastrointestinal cancer (RRrandom=0.99, 95 % CI: 0.86−1.13), or site-specific gastrointestinal cancers including biliary tract (RR=0.98, 0.54−1.78), colorectal (RR=1.13, 0.92−1.39), gallbladder (RR=1.32, 0.43−4.00), gastric (RR=0.88, 0.58−1.33), hepatic (RR=0.79, 0.51−1.21), oesophageal (RR=0.70, 0.38−1.28), pancreatic (RR=1.05, 0.77−1.43), and small intestine cancer (RR=0.78, 0.20−3.04). The corresponding absolute risk differences excluded important impacts on risk. Additional analyses, limited to placebo-controlled trials, high-dose studies, or those with a follow-up duration of ≥5 years, confirmed these findings. Risk of bias was generally low and the certainty of evidence was high for all outcomes. Conclusions: This meta-analysis found no significant impact of GLP-1 RAs on gastrointestinal cancer risk. Long-term safety monitoring of these agents remains important. Systematic review registration: CRD42023476762.

Introduction:. This study aimed to identify research areas that demand attention in multimodal data-driven surgery for improving data management in minimally invasive surgery. Background:. New surgical procedures, high-tech equipment, and digital tools are increasingly being introduced, potentially benefiting patients and surgical teams. These innovations have resulted in operating rooms evolving into data-rich environments, which, in turn, requires a thorough understanding of the data pipeline for improved and more intelligent real-time data usage. As this new domain is vast, it is necessary to identify where efforts should be focused on developing seamless and practical data usage. Methods:. A modified electronic Delphi approach was used; 53 investigators were divided into the following groups: a research group (n=9) for problem identification and a narrative literature review, a medical and technical expert group (n=14) for validation, and an invited panel (n=30) for two electronic survey rounds. Round 1 focused on a consensus regarding bottlenecks in surgical data science areas and research gaps, while round 2 prioritized the statements from round 1, and a roadmap was created based on the identified essential and very important research gaps. Results:. Consensus panelists have identified key research areas, including digitizing operating room (OR) activities, improving data streaming through advanced technologies, uniform protocols for handling multimodal data, and integrating AI for efficiency and safety. The roadmap prioritizes standardizing OR data formats, integrating OR data with patient information, ensuring regulatory compliance, standardizing surgical AI models, and securing data transfers in the next generation of wireless networks. Conclusions:. This work is an international expert consensus regarding the current issues and key research targets in the promising field of data-driven surgery, highlighting the research needs of many operating room stakeholders with the aim of facilitating the implementation of novel patient care strategies in minimally invasive surgery.

Abstract Detection and diagnosis of colon polyps are key to preventing colorectal cancer. Recent evidence suggests that AI-based computer-aided detection (CADe) and computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) systems can enhance endoscopists' performance and boost colonoscopy effectiveness. However, most available public datasets primarily consist of still images or video clips, often at a down-sampled resolution, and do not accurately represent real-world colonoscopy procedures. We introduce the REAL-Colon (Real-world multi-center Endoscopy Annotated video Library) dataset: a compilation of 2.7 M native video frames from sixty full-resolution, real-world colonoscopy recordings across multiple centers. The dataset contains 350k bounding-box annotations, each created under the supervision of expert gastroenterologists. Comprehensive patient clinical data, colonoscopy acquisition information, and polyp histopathological information are also included in each video. With its unprecedented size, quality, and heterogeneity, the REAL-Colon dataset is a unique resource for researchers and developers aiming to advance AI research in colonoscopy. Its openness and transparency facilitate rigorous and reproducible research, fostering the development and benchmarking of more accurate and reliable colonoscopy-related algorithms and models.

The purpose of the article. The study brings a comparative analysis between health systems in Poland and Italy. It is aimed at fulfilling the subject literature using economic comparative analyses between different health systems as well as straight comparisons between Polish and Italian health systems. Moreover, another aim of the study is to find out some weak points and to point out some good practices of each of the analyzed health systems. The research question for the purpose of this study is as follows: what changes can be implemented to improve the efficiency of each of the analyzed health systems? Methodology. The study is carried out on the background of health systems' theory. The critical literature review is conducted. A comparative analysis using such indicators as percentage of GDP and GDP per capita spent on financing health systems, healthcare spending components, life-expectancy data or Euro Health Consumer Index indicators are applied and analysed in the study. Results of the research. Health systems in Poland and Italy in the latest decades were transformed in a completely different way. Healthcare in Poland is based mainly on health insurance premiums whereas in Italy financing of healthcare is based mainly on taxes. Among similarities between the systems a high level of responsibility designated to local authorities may be mentioned. The comparative analysis indicates that the situation of the Italian health system seems to be much better as compared to its Polish counterpart. Though, some solutions, aimed at improving health system efficiency, can be transferred from one system to another in case of both analyzed systems.

Background and objectives: Subepithelial lesions (SELs) of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract present a diagnostic challenge due to their heterogeneous nature and varied clinical manifestations. Usually, SELs are small and asymptomatic; generally discovered during routine endoscopy or radiological examinations. Currently, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is the best tool to characterize gastric SELs. Materials and methods: For this review, the research and the study selection were conducted using the PubMed database. Articles in English language were reviewed from August 2019 to July 2024. Results: This review aims to summarize the international literature to examine and illustrate the progress in the last five years of endosonographic diagnostics and treatment of gastric SELs. Conclusions: Endoscopic ultrasound is the preferred option for the diagnosis of sub-epithelial lesions. In most of the cases, EUS-guided tissue sampling is mandatory; however, ancillary techniques (elastography, CEH-EUS, AI) may help in both diagnosis and prognostic assessment.

Background and aim: Guidelines suggest endoscopic resection for rectal neuroendocrine tumors (rNETs) < 10 mm, but the most appropriate resection technique is unclear. In real-life clinical practice, the endoscopic removal of unrecognized rNETs can take place with “simple” techniques and without preliminary staging. The aim of the current study is to report our own experience at a referral center for both neuroendocrine neoplasms and endoscopy. Methods: Retrospective analyses of polypectomies were performed at the Humanitas Research Hospital for rNETs (already diagnosed or previously unrecognized). Results: A total of 19 patients were included, with a median lesion size of 5 mm (range 3–10 mm). Only five lesions were suspected as NETs before removal and underwent endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) before resection, being removed with advanced endoscopic techniques. Unsuspected rNETs were removed by cold polypectomy in eleven cases, EMR in two, and biopsy forceps in one. When described, the margins were negative in four cases, positive in four (R1), and indeterminate in one. The median follow-up was 40 months. A 10 mm polypoid lesion removed with cold snare polypectomy (G2 R1) needed subsequent surgery. Eighteen patients underwent EUS after a median time of 6.5 months from resection. The EUS identified local recurrence after 14 months in a 7 mm polypoid lesion removed with cold snare polypectomy (G1 R1); the lesion was treated with cap-assisted EMR. For all the other lesions, the follow-up was negative. Conclusions: When rNETs are improperly removed without prior staging, caution must be exercised. The data from our cohort suggest that even if inappropriate resection had happened, patients may be safely managed with early EUS evaluation.

Background: The efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided liver biopsy (EUS-LB) compared to percutaneous liver biopsy (PC-LB) remains uncertain. Methods: Our data consist of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EUS-LB to PC-LB, found through a literature search via PubMed/Medline and Embase. The primary outcome was sample adequacy, whereas secondary outcomes were longest and total lengths of tissue specimens, diagnostic accuracy, and number of complete portal tracts (CPTs). Results: Sample adequacy did not significantly differ between EUS-LB and PC-LB (risk ratio [RR] 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58–2.38; p = 0.65), with very low evidence quality and inadequate sample size as per trial sequential analysis (TSA). The two techniques were equivalent with respect to diagnostic accuracy (RR: 1; CI: 0.95–1.05; p = 0.88), mean number of complete portal tracts (mean difference: 2.29, −4.08 to 8.66; p = 0.48), and total specimen length (mean difference: −0.51, −20.92 to 19.9; p = 0.96). The mean maximum specimen length was significantly longer in the PC-LB group (mean difference: −3.11, −5.51 to −0.71; p = 0.01), and TSA showed that the required information size was reached. Conclusion: EUS-LB and PC-LB are comparable in terms of diagnostic performance although PC-LB provides longer non-fragmented specimens.

Abstract Artificial Intelligence (ai) systems are precious support for decision-making, with many applications also in the medical domain. The interaction between mds and ai enjoys a renewed interest following the increased possibilities of deep learning devices. However, we still have limited evidence-based knowledge of the context, design, and psychological mechanisms that craft an optimal human–ai collaboration. In this multicentric study, 21 endoscopists reviewed 504 videos of lesions prospectively acquired from real colonoscopies. They were asked to provide an optical diagnosis with and without the assistance of an ai support system. Endoscopists were influenced by ai ( $$\textsc {or}=3.05$$ O R = 3.05 ), but not erratically: they followed the ai advice more when it was correct ( $$\textsc {or}=3.48$$ O R = 3.48 ) than incorrect ( $$\textsc {or}=1.85$$ O R = 1.85 ). Endoscopists achieved this outcome through a weighted integration of their and the ai opinions, considering the case-by-case estimations of the two reliabilities. This Bayesian-like rational behavior allowed the human–ai hybrid team to outperform both agents taken alone. We discuss the features of the human–ai interaction that determined this favorable outcome.

Background: The endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a technically demanding and time-consuming procedure, with an increased risk of adverse events compared to standard endoscopic resection techniques. The main difficulties are related to the instability of the operating field and to the loss of traction. We aimed to evaluate in a pilot trial a new endoscopic platform [tissue retractor system (TRS); ORISE, Boston scientific Co., Marlborough, MA, USA], designed to stabilize the intraluminal space, and to provide tissue retraction and counter traction. Method: We prospectively enrolled all consecutive patients who underwent an ESD for sigmoid/rectal lesions. The primary outcome was the rate of technical feasibility. Further technical aspects such as en-bloc and R0 resection rate, number of graspers used, circumferential incision time, TRS assemblage time, submucosal dissection time, and submucosal dissection speed were provided. Clinical outcomes (recurrence rate and adverse events) were recorded as well. Results: In all, 10 patients (M/F 4/6, age: 70.4 ± 11.0 years old) were enrolled. Eight out of 10 lesions were located in the rectum. Average lesion size was 31.2 ± 2.7 mm, and mean lesion area was 1628.88 ± 205.3 mm 2 . The two sigmoid lesions were removed through standard ESD, because the platform assemblage failed after several attempts. All rectal lesions were removed in an en-bloc fashion. R0 resection was achieved in 7/8 (87.5%) patients in an average procedure time of 60.5 ± 23.3 min. None of the patients developed neither intraprocedural nor postprocedural adverse events. Conclusion: TRS-assisted ESD is a feasible option when used in the rectum, with promising result in terms of efficacy and safety outcomes. Nevertheless, our pilot study underlines few technical limitations of the present platform that need to be overcome before the system could be widely and routinely used.

This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving techniques in image-enhanced endoscopy (IEE) for the characterization of colorectal polyps, and the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing the diagnostic accuracy of endoscopy. We discuss the historical use of dye-spray and virtual chromoendoscopy for the characterization of colorectal polyps, which are now being replaced with more advanced technologies. Specifically, we focus on the application of AI to create a “virtual biopsy” for the detection and characterization of colorectal polyps, with potential for replacing histopathological diagnosis. The incorporation of AI has the potential to provide an evolutionary learning system that aids in the diagnosis and management of patients with the best possible outcomes. A detailed analysis of the literature supporting AI-assisted diagnostic techniques for the detection and characterization of colorectal polyps, with a particular emphasis on AI’s characterization mechanism, is provided. The benefits of AI over traditional IEE techniques, including the reduction in human error in diagnosis, and its potential to provide an accurate diagnosis with similar accuracy to the gold standard are presented. However, the need for large-scale testing of AI in clinical practice and the importance of integrating patient data into the diagnostic process are acknowledged. In conclusion, the constant evolution of IEE technology and the potential for AI to revolutionize the field of endoscopy in the future are presented.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is considered the preferred method for managing biliary obstructions. However, the prevalence of surgically modified anatomies often poses challenges, making the standard side-viewing duodenoscope unable to reach the papilla in most cases. The increasing instances of surgically altered anatomies (SAAs) result from higher rates of bariatric procedures and surgical interventions for pancreatic malignancies. Conventional ERCP with a side-viewing endoscope remains effective when there is continuity between the stomach and duodenum. Nonetheless, percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) or surgery has historically been used as an alternative for biliary drainage in malignant or benign conditions. The evolving landscape has seen various endoscopic approaches tailored to anatomical variations. Innovative methodologies such as cap-assisted forward-viewing endoscopy and enteroscopy have enabled the performance of ERCP. Despite their utilization, procedural complexities, prolonged durations, and accessibility challenges have emerged. As a result, there is a growing interest in novel enteroscopy and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) techniques to ensure the overall success of endoscopic biliary drainage. Notably, EUS has revolutionized this domain, particularly through several techniques detailed in the review. The rendezvous approach has been pivotal in this field. The antegrade approach, involving biliary tree puncturing, allows for the validation and treatment of strictures in an antegrade fashion. The EUS-transmural approach involves connecting a tract of the biliary system with the GI tract lumen. Moreover, the EUS-directed transgastric ERCP (EDGE) procedure, combining EUS and ERCP, presents a promising solution after gastric bypass. These advancements hold promise for expanding the horizons of comprehensive and successful biliary drainage interventions, laying the groundwork for further advancements in endoscopic procedures.

Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy services are in third place as major contributors to CO2 emissions among healthcare facilities, especially due to their massive waste production. One of the measures suggested to reduce this environmental impact is a reduction in histological examinations performed on biopsy specimens taken during endoscopy. A reliable candidate to reduce the rate of biopsies and, consequently, the impact of CO2 emissions could be EndoFaster®, an innovative medical device that allows one to suspect or rule out both H. pylori infection and precancerous lesions on the gastric mucosa by analyzing a small amount of gastric juice aspirated during endoscopy in real time. In the present study, we investigated the ability of EndoFaster® to reduce the environmental impact of upper endoscopy, comparing the CO2 production of standard biopsy sampling as suggested in guidelines and biopsies guided by real-time EndoFaster® results during endoscopy. By estimating an overall 90% rate of biopsies according to standard guidelines and a reduction of 50% of gastric biopsies based on EndoFaster® results, we calculated a 44% overall reduction in CO2 emissions, demonstrating that by using this tool, it is possible to distinctly reduce the contribution of upper endoscopy to global warming.

Patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) face a two to three-fold higher risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to the general population. In recent years, significant progress has been made in comprehending the natural history of IBD-associated CRC (IBD-CRC) and refining its treatment strategies. The decreased incidence of IBD-CRC can be attributed to improved therapeutic management of inflammation, advancements in endoscopy, and early detection of precancerous lesions via surveillance programs. Advanced imaging technologies have made previously undetectable dysplasia visible in most cases, allowing for a much more precise and detailed examination of the mucosa. Additionally, new tools have facilitated the endoscopic resection (ER) of visible lesions in IBD. Particularly, the key to effectively manage colitis-associated colorectal neoplasia (CAN) is to first identify it and subsequently guarantee a complete ER in order to avoid surgery and opt for continuing surveillance. Advanced ER techniques for CAN include endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), and hybrid ESD-EMR (h-ESD). This narrative review aims to consolidate the current literature on IBD-CRC, providing an overview of advanced techniques for ER of CAN in IBD, with a particular emphasis on the impact of ESD on the long-term outcomes of IBD patients.

Abstract Accurate in-vivo optical characterization of colorectal polyps is key to select the optimal treatment regimen during colonoscopy. However, reported accuracies vary widely among endoscopists. We developed a novel intelligent medical device able to seamlessly operate in real-time using conventional white light (WL) endoscopy video stream without virtual chromoendoscopy (blue light, BL). In this work, we evaluated the standalone performance of this computer-aided diagnosis device (CADx) on a prospectively acquired dataset of unaltered colonoscopy videos. An international group of endoscopists performed optical characterization of each polyp acquired in a prospective study, blinded to both histology and CADx result, by means of an online platform enabling careful video assessment. Colorectal polyps were categorized by reviewers, subdivided into 10 experts and 11 non-experts endoscopists, and by the CADx as either “adenoma” or “non-adenoma”. A total of 513 polyps from 165 patients were assessed. CADx accuracy in WL was found comparable to the accuracy of expert endoscopists (CADxWL/Exp; OR 1.211 [0.766–1.915]) using histopathology as the reference standard. Moreover, CADx accuracy in WL was found superior to the accuracy of non-expert endoscopists (CADxWL/NonExp; OR 1.875 [1.191–2.953]), and CADx accuracy in BL was found comparable to it (CADxBL/CADxWL; OR 0.886 [0.612–1.282]). The proposed intelligent device shows the potential to support non-expert endoscopists in systematically reaching the performances of expert endoscopists in optical characterization.

Introduction: Achalasia following bariatric surgery is a rare phenomenon with diverse potential physiopathological origins. Aims: This article aims to explore the hypothetical physiopathological connection between bariatric surgery and the subsequent onset of achalasia. Material and Methods: A review was conducted to identify studies reporting cases of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) after bariatric procedures and detailing the outcomes in terms of the technical and clinical success. Additionally, a case of a successful POEM performed on a patient two years after undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is presented. Results: The selection criteria yielded eight studies encompassing 40 patients treated with POEM for achalasia after bariatric surgery: 34 after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and 6 after LSG. The studies reported an overall technical success rate of 97.5%, with clinical success achieved in 85% of cases. Adverse events were minimal, with only one case of esophageal leak treated endoscopically. However, a postprocedural symptomatic evaluation was notably lacking in most of the included studies. Conclusions: Achalasia poses a considerable challenge within the bariatric surgery population. POEM has emerged as a technically viable and safe intervention for this patient demographic, providing an effective treatment option where surgical alternatives for achalasia are limited. Our findings highlight the promising outcomes of POEM in these patients, but the existing data remain limited. Hence, prospective studies are needed to elucidate the optimal pre-surgical assessment and timing of endoscopic procedures for optimizing outcomes.

Aims: Lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMSs) in ultrasonography-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) have become increasingly important for high-risk surgical patients. Our study aims to evaluate the technical and clinical success, safety, and feasibility of endoscopic ultrasonography-guided gallbladder drainage using a new dedicated LAMS. Methods: This is a retrospective multicenter study that included all consecutive patients not suitable for surgery who were referred to a tertiary center for EUS-GBD using a new dedicated electrocautery LAMS for acute cholecystitis at eight different centers. Results: Our study included 54 patients with a mean age of 76.48 years (standard deviation: 12.6 years). Out of the 54 endoscopic gallbladder drainages performed, 24 (44.4%) were cholecysto-gastrostomy, and 30 (55.4%) were cholecysto-duodenostomy. The technical success of LAMS placement was 100%, and clinical success was achieved in 23 out of 30 patients (76.67%). Adverse events were observed in two patients (5.6%). Patients were discharged after a median of 5 days post-stenting. Conclusions: EUS-GBD represents a valuable option for high-surgical-risk patients with acute cholecystitis. This new dedicated LAMS has demonstrated a high rate of technical and clinical success, along with a high level of safety.

Accurate disease characterization is the pillar of modern treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and endoscopy is the mainstay of disease assessment and colorectal cancer surveillance. Recent technological progress has enhanced and expanded the use of endoscopy in IBD. In particular, numerous artificial intelligence (AI)-powered systems have shown to support human endoscopists' evaluations, improving accuracy and consistency while saving time. Moreover, advanced optical technologies such as endocytoscopy (EC), allowing high magnification in vivo, can bridge endoscopy with histology. Furthermore, molecular imaging, through probe based confocal laser endomicroscopy allows the real-time detection of specific biomarkers on gastrointestinal surface, and could be used to predict therapeutic response, paving the way to precision medicine. In parallel, as the applications of AI spread, computers are positioned to resolve some of the limitations of human histopathology evaluation, such as interobserver variability and inconsistencies in assessment. The aim of this review is to summarize the most promising advances in endoscopic and histologic assessment of IBD.

Background and study aims Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to impact several fields within gastroenterology. In gastrointestinal endoscopy, AI-based tools have translated into clinical practice faster than expected. We aimed to evaluate the status of research for AI in gastroenterology while predicting its future applications. Methods All studies registered on Clinicaltrials.gov up to November 2021 were analyzed. The studies included used AI in gastrointestinal endoscopy, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), hepatology, and pancreatobiliary diseases. Data regarding the study field, methodology, endpoints, and publication status were retrieved, pooled, and analyzed to observe underlying temporal and geographical trends. Results Of the 103 study entries retrieved according to our inclusion/exclusion criteria, 76 (74 %) were based on AI application to gastrointestinal endoscopy, mainly for detection and characterization of colorectal neoplasia (52/103, 50 %). Image analysis was also more frequently reported than data analysis for pancreaticobiliary (six of 10 [60 %]), liver diseases (eight of nine [89 %]), and IBD (six of eight [75 %]). Overall, 48 of 103 study entries (47 %) were interventional and 55 (53 %) observational. In 2018, one of eight studies (12.5 %) were interventional, while in 2021, 21 of 34 (61.8 %) were interventional, with an inverse ratio between observational and interventional studies during the study period. The majority of the studies were planned as single-center (74 of 103 [72 %]) and more were in Asia (45 of 103 [44 %]) and Europe (44 of 103 [43 %]). Conclusions AI implementation in gastroenterology is dominated by computer-aided detection and characterization of colorectal neoplasia. The timeframe for translational research is characterized by a swift conversion of observational into interventional studies.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease has a high incidence and prevalence in the general population. Clinical manifestations are heterogenous, and so is the response to medical treatment. Proton pump inhibitors are still the most common agents used to control reflux symptoms and for healing esophagitis, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution for the disease. Patients with persistent troublesome symptoms despite medical therapy, those experiencing some adverse drug reaction, or those unwilling to take lifelong medications deserve valid alternatives. Anti-reflux Nissen fundoplication is an effective option, but the risk of adverse events has limited its spread. In recent years, advancements in therapeutic endoscopy have been made, and three major endoluminal alternatives are now available, including (1) the delivery of radiofrequency energy to the esophago–gastric junction, (2) transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), and (3) anti-reflux mucosal interventions (ARMI) based on mucosal resection (ARMS) and mucosal ablation (ARMA) techniques to remodel the cardia. Endoscopic techniques have shown interesting results, but their diffusion is still limited to expert endoscopists in tertiary centers. This review discusses the state of the art in the endoscopic approach to gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Abstract Background Right-sided colorectal cancer (CRC) has worse survival than does left-sided CRC. The objective of this study was to further assess the impact of right-side location on survival and the role of the extent of lymphadenectomy. Methods All CRCs diagnosed between 2000 and 2012 in Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy, were included. Data for stage, grade, histology, screening history, and number of removed lymph nodes (LN) were collected. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR), with relative 95% confidence intervals (95%CI), of right vs. left colon and of removing 21 lymph nodes by cancer site. Results During the study period, 29,358 patients were registered (8828 right colon, 18,852 left colon, 1678 transverse). Patients with right cancer were more often older, females, with advanced stage and high grade, and higher number of removed LNs. Five-year survival was lower in the right than in the left colon (55.2% vs 59.7%). In multivariable analysis, right colon showed a lower survival when adjusting for age, sex, and screening status (HR 1.12, 95%CI 1.04–1.21). Stratification by number of lymph nodes removed (12–21 or > 21) was associated with better survival in right colon (HR 0.54, 95%CI 0.40–0.72 and HR 0.40, 95%CI 0.30–0.55, respectively) compared to left colon (HR 0.89, 95%CI 0.76–1.06 and HR 0.83, 95%CI 0.69–1.01, respectively). Conclusions This study confirms that right CRC has worse survival; the association is not due to screening status. An adequate removal of lymph nodes is associated with better survival, although the direction of the association in terms of causal links is not clear.

Introduction: Since screening programs for gastric cancer are not applicable in Western countries, identification and follow-up of gastric precancerous lesions, such as extensive intestinal metaplasia (IM), are worthwhile to increase the diagnosis of cancer at an early stage. We investigated whether an optimal age threshold to detect extensive IM in a European country exists. Methods: This was a post hoc analysis of prospectively collected data in a nationwide study involving consecutive patients aged between 50 and 65 years who underwent an upper endoscopy with the standard 5 gastric biopsies. The presence of extensive (antral and gastric body) IM on gastric mucosa was considered. Results: Data found that the prevalence of extensive IM was distinctly higher in patients aged 60–65 years, with a 2.28-fold increased probability compared to younger patients. None of the other considered factors (sex, BMI, smoking habit, first-degree family history, and symptoms) emerged as an independent predictor of extensive IM in the stomach. Conclusion: When deciding for an occasional gastric cancer screening in Western populations, the choice of an age range of 60–65 years might be appropriate, allowing detection of a distinctly high prevalence of extensive IM deserving scheduled follow-up.

Over the last two decades, endoscopic eradication therapy has been established as the therapeutic strategy of choice for patients with Barrett’s oesophagus-related dysplasia and early oesophageal adenocarcinoma. With a multimodal approach, ablative therapies have been highly effective in achieving remarkable eradication rates of metaplastic epithelium with an acceptable adverse event rate. Among ablative techniques, radiofrequency ablation is currently considered as the first-line option as its efficacy and safety are strongly supported by relevant data. Nevertheless, radiofrequency ablation is costly, and not universally available, or applicable to every situation. Moreover, primary failure and recurrence rates are not negligible. In the last few years, cryotherapy techniques and hybrid argon plasma coagulation have been increasingly assessed as potential novel ablative therapies. Preliminary data have been promising and suggest that they may even have a role as first-line options, alternatively to radiofrequency ablation. The aim of this review is to provide a practical guide for the ablation of Barrett’s oesophagus, with emphasis on the different ablative options.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide, with the highest incidence reported in high-income countries. However, because of the slow progression of neoplastic precursors, along with the opportunity for their endoscopic detection and resection, a well-designed endoscopic screening program is expected to strongly decrease colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. In this regard, quality of colonoscopy has been clearly related with the risk of post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer. Recently, the development of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the medical field has been growing in interest. Through machine learning processes, and, more recently, deep learning, if a very high numbers of learning samples are available, AI systems may automatically extract specific features from endoscopic images/videos without human intervention, helping the endoscopists in different aspects of their daily practice. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on AI-aided endoscopy, and to outline its potential role in colorectal cancer prevention.

Background: Advanced endoscopic technologies led to significant progress in the definition of endoscopic remission of ulcerative colitis (UC) and correlate better with histological changes, compared with standard endoscopy. However, while studies have assessed the diagnostic accuracy of endoscope technologies individually, there are currently limited data comparing between technologies. As such, the aim of this systematic review was to pool data from the existing literature and compare the correlations between endoscopy and histologic disease activity scores across endoscope technologies. Methods: We searched PubMed and Embase until February 2021 for eligible studies reporting the correlation between endoscopy and histology activity scores in UC. Studies were grouped by endoscope technology as standard-definition white light (SD-WLE), high-definition white light (HD-WLE) or electronic virtual chromoendoscopy (VCE) and comparisons made between these groups. Results: A total of N = 27 studies were identified, of which N = 12 were included in a meta-analysis of correlations between endoscopic and histological activity scores. Combining these studies identified considerable heterogeneity ( I 2 : 89–93%) and returned a pooled correlation coefficient ( ρ ) for the SD-WLE group of 0.74, which did not differ significantly from HD-WLE ( ρ : 0.65, p = 0.521) or VCE ( ρ : 0.70, p = 0.801). In addition, N = 4 studies reported the accuracy of endoscopic activity scores on WLE and VCE to diagnose histological remission. Pooling these found significantly higher accuracy for VCE, compared with WLE [risk ratio: 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07–1.19, p

On page 168, Table 2, where it reads: On page 168, Table 2, where it reads: Advanced phenotype rate* [n (%)] 35 (49.0) 10 (52.0) 25 (47.0) 0.606 Carcinoma** [n (%)] 2 (2.0) 1 (5.0) 1 (2.0) It should read: Advanced phenotype rate [n (%)] 179 (22.0) 57 (30.0) 35 (21.0) 29 (21.0) 24 (14.0) 34 (24.0) Carcinoma [n (%)] 3 (0.4) 2 1 On page 168, Table 3, where it reads: ADR (%) 80.0 - Advanced adenoma (%) 44.0 15.9 It should read: ADR (%) 41.0 - Advanced adenoma (%) 22.0 15.9 Article published with errors: https://www.actamedicaportuguesa.com/revista/index.php/amp/article/view/15904

Introduction: In Portugal, a colorectal cancer screening program based on faecal immunochemical test followed by colonoscopy was shown to be cost-effective for individuals between 50 and 74 years old. We report the first findings of the implementation of a population-based program In Northern Portugal. Material and Methods: In the pilot phase, eligible subjects were allocated either to a direct mailing invitation or to primary care centers. In the first year of program implementation, we assessed the uptake rate, the faecal immunochemical test -positivity rate, the diagnostic yield of advanced neoplasia, and the quality parameters for post-faecal immunochemical test + colonoscopy. Results: We invited 100 501 eligible subjects (49% male with a median age of 55 years). Of these, 5228 participated in the pilot phase and 95 273 participated in the first year of the program. In the first year of the program, the adherence was 29%, with a positivity rate of 5% and a 60% compliance to colonoscopy. The faecal immunochemical test-detection rate of advanced neoplasia was 0.35/1000 subjects, and the positive predictive value at post- faecal immunochemical test + colonoscopy was 44% and 2% for advanced adenoma and invasive cancer, respectively. No major adverse events were reported after colonoscopy. Discussion: The suboptimal adherence to faecal immunochemical test and post-faecal immunochemical test + colonoscopy remains the most urgent step to be addressed. Conclusion: A centralized invitation system based on direct mailing was feasible and both colonoscopy quality and diagnostic yield were adequate antecipating the success of the programme.

Background and study aims The role of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for colorectal lesions in Western communities is unclear and its adoption is still limited. The aim of this study is to assess the long-term outcomes of a large cohort of patients treated with colorectal ESD in a tertiary Western center. Patients and methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients treated by ESD for superficial colorectal lesions between February 2011 and November 2019. The primary outcome was the recurrence rate. Secondary outcomes were en-bloc and R0 resection rates, procedural time, adverse events (AEs), and need for surgery. The curative resection rate was assessed for submucosal invasive lesions. Results A total of 327 consecutive patients, median age 69 years (IQR 60–76); 201 men (61.5 %) were included in the analysis. Of the lesions, 90.8 % were resected in an en-bloc fashion. The rate of R0 resection was 83.1 % (217/261) and 44.0 % (29/66) for standard and hybrid ESD techniques, respectively. Submucosal invasion and piecemeal resection independently predicted R1 resections. A total of 18(5.5 %) intra-procedural AEs (perforation:11, bleeding:7) and 12(3.7 %) post-procedural AEs occurred (perforation:2, bleeding: 10). Eighteen adenoma recurrences per 1,000 person-years (15cases, 5.6 %) were detected after a median follow-up time of 36 months. All recurrences were detected within 12 months. No carcinoma recurrences were observed. R1 resection status and intra-procedural AEs independently predicted recurrences with seven vs 150 recurrences per 1,000 person-years in the R0 vs R1 group, respectively. Conclusions Colorectal ESD is a safe and effective option for managing superficial colorectal neoplasia in a Western setting, with short and long-terms outcomes comparable to Eastern studies. En-bloc R0 resection and absence of intra-procedural AEs are associated with reduced risk of recurrence.

Background and study aims Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a complex procedure with a relatively high rate of adverse events. Data on training of operators and fulfillment of quality indicators in Italy are scarce. The goal of this study was to assess the overall quality of ERCP in Italy compared to international standards. Patients and methods This was a prospective, observational study from different Italian centers performing ERCP. Operators answered a questionnaire, then recorded data on ERCPs over a 1-to 3-month period. Results Nineteen Italian centers participated in the study. The most common concern of operators about training was the lack of structured programs. Seven/19 centers routinely used conscious sedation for ERCP. Forty-one experienced operators and 21 trainees performed 766 ERCPs: a successful deep biliary cannulation in native-papilla patients was achieved in 95.1 % of cases; the post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) rate was 5.4 % in native-papilla patients; cholangitis rate was 1.0 %; bleeding and perforation occurred in 2.7 % and 0.4 % of the patients, respectively. Conclusions This study revealed that, overall, ERCP is performed in the participating Italian centers meeting good quality standards, but structured training and sedation practice are still subpar. The bleeding and perforation rate slightly exceeded the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy indicator targets but they are comparable to the reported rates from other international surveys.

Background and study aims The European Colonoscopy Quality Investigation (ECQI) Group comprises expert colonoscopists and investigators with the aim of raising colonoscopy standards. We assessed the levels of monitoring and achievement of European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) performance measures (PMs) across Europe using responses to the ECQI questionnaires. Methods The questionnaire comprises three forms: institution and practitioner questionnaires are completed once; a procedure questionnaire is completed on multiple occasions for individual total colonoscopies. ESGE PMs were approximated as closely as possible from the data collected via the procedure questionnaire. Procedure data could provide rate of adequate bowel preparation, cecal intubation rate (CIR), withdrawal time, polyp detection rate (PDR), and tattooing resection sites. Results We evaluated ECQI questionnaire data collected between June 2016 and April 2018, comprising 91 practitioner and 52 institution questionnaires. A total of 6445 completed procedure forms were received. Institution and practitioner responses indicate that routine recording of PMs is not widespread: adenoma detection rate (ADR) is routinely recorded in 29 % of institutions and by 34 % of practitioners; PDR by 42 % and 47 %, CIR by 62 % and 64 %, bowel preparation quality by 56 % and 76 %, respectively. Procedure data showed a rate of adequate bowel preparation of 84.2 %, CIR 73.4 %, PDR 40.5 %, mean withdrawal time 7.8 minutes and 12.2 % of procedures with possible removal of a non-pedunculated lesion ≥ 20 mm reporting tattooing. Conclusions Our findings clearly show areas in need of quality improvement and the importance of promoting quality monitoring throughout the colonoscopy procedure.

Background and Aims: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), in surgically altered anatomy (SAA), can be challenging and the optimal technique selection remains debatable. Most common foregut interventions resulting to this burden consist of Billroth II gastrectomy, Whipple surgery and Roux-en-Y anastomoses, including gastric by-pass. This systematic review, with meta-analysis, aimed to compare the rates of successful enteroscope-assisted (EA)-, endosonography-directed transgastric- (EDGE), and laparoscopy-assisted (LA)-ERCP. Methods: A systematic research (Medline) was performed for relative studies, through January 2022. The primary outcome was technical success, defined as approaching the ampulla site. Secondary outcomes included the desired duct cannulation, successful therapeutic manipulations, and complication rates. We performed meta-analyses of pooled data, and subgroup analysis considering the EA-ERCP subtypes (spiral-, double and single balloon-enteroscope). Pooled rates are reported as percentages with 95% Confidence Intervals (95%CIs). Results: Seventy-six studies were included (3569 procedures). Regarding primary outcome, EA-ERCP was the least effective [87.3% (95%CI: 85.3–89.4); I2: 91.0%], whereas EDGE and LA-ERCP succeeded in 97.9% (95%CI: 96.4–99.4; I2: 0%) and 99.1% (95%CI: 98.6–99.7; I2: 0%), respectively. Similarly, duct cannulation and therapeutic success rates were 74.7% (95%CI: 71.3–78.0; I2: 86.9%) and 69.1% (95%CI: 65.3–72.9; I2: 91.8%) after EA-ERCP, 98% (95%CI: 96.5–99.6; I2: 0%) and 97.9% (95%CI: 96.3–99.4) after EDGE, and 98.6% (95%CI: 97.9–99.2; I2: 0%) and 98.5% (95%CI: 97.8–99.2; I2: 0%) after LA-ERCP, respectively. The noticed high heterogeneity in EA-ERCP results probably reflects the larger number of included studies, the different enteroscopy modalities and the variety of surgical interventions. Comparisons revealed the superiority of LA-ERCP and EDGE over EA-ERCP (p ≤ 0.001) for all success-related outcomes, though LA-ERCP and EDGE were comparable (p ≥ 0.43). ERCP with spiral-enteroscope was inferior to balloon-enteroscope, while the type of the balloon-enteroscope did not affect the results. Most adverse events were recorded after LA-ERCP [15.1% (95%CI: 9.40–20.8); I2: 87.1%], and EDGE [13.1% (95%CI: 7.50–18.8); I2: 48.2%], significantly differing from EA-ERCP [5.7% (95%CI: 4.50–6.80); p ≤ 0.04; I2: 64.2%]. Conclusions: LA-ERCP and EDGE were associated with higher technical, cannulation, and therapeutic success compared to EA-ERCP, though accompanied with more adverse events.