A machine learning-based choledocholithiasis prediction tool to improve ERCP decision making: a proof-of-concept study.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies demonstrated limited accuracy of existing guidelines for predicting choledocholithiasis, leading to overutilization of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). More accurate stratification may improve patient selection for ERCP and allow use of lower-risk modalities. METHODS: A machine learning model was developed using patient information from two published cohort studies that evaluated performance of guidelines in predicting choledocholithiasis. Prediction models were developed using the gradient boosting model (GBM) machine learning method. GBM performance was evaluated using 10-fold cross-validation and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Important predictors of choledocholithiasis were identified based on relative importance in the GBM. RESULTS: 1378 patients (mean age 43.3 years; 61.2% female) were included in the GBM and 59.4% had choledocholithiasis. Eight variables were identified as predictors of choledocholithiasis. The GBM had accuracy of 71.5% (SD 2.5%) (AUC 0.79 [SD 0.06]) and performed better than the 2019 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) guidelines (accuracy 62.4% [SD 2.6%]; AUC 0.63 [SD 0.03]) and European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) guidelines (accuracy 62.8% [SD 2.6%]; AUC 0.67 [SD 0.02]). The GBM correctly categorized 22% of patients directed to unnecessary ERCP by ASGE guidelines, and appropriately recommended as the next management step 48% of ERCPs incorrectly rejected by ESGE guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: A machine learning-based tool was created, providing real-time, personalized, objective probability of choledocholithiasis and ERCP recommendations. This more accurately directed ERCP use than existing ASGE and ESGE guidelines, and has the potential to reduce morbidity associated with ERCP or missed choledocholithiasis.

Simulation-based training improves polypectomy skills among practicing endoscopists.

Background and study aims Practicing endoscopists have variable polypectomy skills during colonoscopy and limited training opportunities for improvement. Simulation-based training enhances procedural skill, but its impact on polypectomy is unclear. We developed a simulation-based polypectomy intervention to improve polypectomy competency. Methods All faculty endoscopists at our tertiary care center who perform colonoscopy with polypectomy were recruited for a simulation-based intervention assessing sessile and stalked polypectomy. Endoscopists removed five polyps in a simulation environment at pretest followed by a training intervention including a video, practice, and one-on-one feedback. Within 1-4 weeks, endoscopists removed five new simulated polyps at post-test. We used the Direct Observation of Polypectomy Skills (DOPyS) checklist for assessment, evaluating individual polypectomy skills, and global competency (scale: 1-4). Competency was defined as an average global competency score of ≥ 3. Results 83 % (29/35) of eligible endoscopists participated and 95 % (276/290) of planned polypectomies were completed. Only 17 % (5/29) of endoscopists had average global competency scores that were competent at pretest compared with 52 % (15/29) at post-test ( P  = 0.01). Of all completed polypectomies, the competent polypectomy rate significantly improved from pretest to post-test (55 % vs. 71 %; P  < 0.01). This improvement was significant for sessile polypectomy (37 % vs. 65 %; P  < 0.01) but not for stalked polypectomy (82 % vs. 80 %; P  = 0.70). Conclusions Simulation-based training improved polypectomy skills among practicing endoscopists. Further studies are needed to assess the translation of simulation-based education to clinical practice.

Colonoscopy competence assessment tools: a systematic review of validity evidence.

BACKGROUND: Assessment tools are essential for endoscopy training, being required to support feedback provision, optimize learner capabilities, and document competence. We aimed to evaluate the strength of validity evidence that supports the available colonoscopy direct observation assessment tools using the unified framework of validity. METHODS: We systematically searched five databases for studies investigating colonoscopy direct observation assessment tools from inception until 8 April 2020. We extracted data outlining validity evidence (content, response process, internal structure, relations to other variables, and consequences) from the five sources and graded the degree of evidence, with a maximum score of 15. We assessed educational utility using an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education framework and methodological quality using the Medical Education Research Quality Instrument (MERSQI). RESULTS: From 10 841 records, we identified 27 studies representing 13 assessment tools (10 adult, 2 pediatric, 1 both). All tools assessed technical skills, while 10 each assessed cognitive and integrative skills. Validity evidence scores ranged from 1-15. The Assessment of Competency in Endoscopy (ACE) tool, the Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) tool, and the Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Competency Assessment Tool (GiECAT) had the strongest validity evidence, with scores of 13, 15, and 14, respectively. Most tools were easy to use and interpret, and required minimal resources. MERSQI scores ranged from 9.5-11.5 (maximum score 14.5). CONCLUSIONS: The ACE, DOPS, and GiECAT have strong validity evidence compared with other assessments. Future studies should identify barriers to widespread implementation and report on the use of these tools in credentialing examinations.

ASGE guideline on the role of endoscopy in the management of benign and malignant gastroduodenal obstruction.

This American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for the endoscopic management of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). We applied the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology to address key clinical questions. These include the comparison of (1) surgical gastrojejunostomy to the placement of self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) for malignant GOO, (2) covered versus uncovered SEMS for malignant GOO, and (3) endoscopic and surgical interventions for the management of benign GOO. Recommendations provided in this document were founded on the certainty of the evidence, balance of benefits and harms, considerations of patient and caregiver preferences, resource utilization, and cost-effectiveness.

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guideline on the role of endoscopy in familial adenomatous polyposis syndromes.

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndrome is a complex entity, which includes FAP, attenuated FAP, and MUTYH-associated polyposis. These patients are at significant risk for colorectal cancer and carry additional risks for extracolonic malignancies. In this guideline, we reviewed the most recent literature to formulate recommendations on the role of endoscopy in this patient population. Relevant clinical questions were how to identify high-risk individuals warranting genetic testing, when to start screening examinations, what are appropriate surveillance intervals, how to identify endoscopically high-risk features, and what is the role of chemoprevention. A systematic literature search from 2005 to 2018 was performed, in addition to the inclusion of seminal historical studies. Most studies were from worldwide registries, which have compiled years of data regarding the natural history and cancer risks in this cohort. Given that most studies were retrospective, recommendations were based on epidemiologic data and expert opinion. Management of colorectal polyps in FAP has not changed much in recent years, as colectomy in FAP is the standard of care. What is new, however, is the developing body of literature on the role of endoscopy in managing upper GI and small-bowel polyposis, as patients are living longer and improved endoscopic technologies have emerged.

ASGE guideline on minimum staffing requirements for the performance of GI endoscopy.

Efforts to increase patient safety and satisfaction, a critical concern for health providers, require periodic evaluation of all factors involved in the provision of GI endoscopy services. We aimed to develop guidelines on minimum staffing requirements and scope of practice of available staff for the safe and efficient performance of GI endoscopy. The recommendations in this guideline were based on a systematic review of published literature, results from a nationwide survey of endoscopy directors, along with the expert guidance of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) Standards of Practice Committee members, ASGE Practice Operation Committee members, and the ASGE Governing Board.

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guideline on the role of endoscopy in the management of acute colonic pseudo-obstruction and colonic volvulus.

Colonic volvulus and acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO) are 2 causes of benign large-bowel obstruction. Colonic volvulus occurs most commonly in the sigmoid colon as a result of bowel twisting along its mesenteric axis. In contrast, the exact pathophysiology of ACPO is poorly understood, with the prevailing hypothesis being altered regulation of colonic function by the autonomic nervous system resulting in colonic distention in the absence of mechanical blockage. Prompt diagnosis and intervention leads to improved outcomes for both diagnoses. Endoscopy may play a role in the evaluation and management of both entities. The purpose of this document from the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy's Standards of Practice Committee is to provide an update on the evaluation and endoscopic management of sigmoid volvulus and ACPO.

ASGE guideline on the role of endoscopy for bleeding from chronic radiation proctopathy.

Chronic radiation proctopathy is a common sequela of radiation therapy for malignancies in the pelvic region. A variety of medical and endoscopic therapies have been used for the management of bleeding from chronic radiation proctopathy. In this guideline, we reviewed the results of a systematic search of the literature from 1946 to 2017 to formulate clinical questions and recommendations on the role of endoscopy for bleeding from chronic radiation proctopathy. The following endoscopic modalities are discussed in our document: argon plasma coagulation, bipolar electrocoagulation, heater probe, radiofrequency ablation, and cryoablation. Most studies were small observational studies, and the evidence for effectiveness of endoscopic therapy for chronic radiation proctopathy was limited because of a lack of controlled trials and comparative studies. Despite this limitation, our systematic review found that argon plasma coagulation, bipolar electrocoagulation, heater probe, and radiofrequency ablation were effective in the treatment of rectal bleeding from chronic radiation proctopathy.

ASGE guideline on the role of endoscopy in the evaluation and management of choledocholithiasis

Each year choledocholithiasis results in biliary obstruction, cholangitis, and pancreatitis in a significant number of patients. The primary treatment, ERCP, is minimally invasive but associated with adverse events in 6% to 15%. This American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) Standard of Practice (SOP) Guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for the endoscopic evaluation and treatment of choledocholithiasis. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework was used to rigorously review and synthesize the contemporary literature regarding the following topics: EUS versus MRCP for diagnosis, the role of early ERCP in gallstone pancreatitis, endoscopic papillary dilation after sphincterotomy versus sphincterotomy alone for large bile duct stones, and impact of ERCP-guided intraductal therapy for large and difficult choledocholithiasis. Comprehensive systematic reviews were also performed to assess the following: same-admission cholecystectomy for gallstone pancreatitis, clinical predictors of choledocholithiasis, optimal timing of ERCP vis-à-vis cholecystectomy, management of Mirizzi syndrome and hepatolithiasis, and biliary stent therapy for choledocholithiasis. Core clinical questions were derived using an iterative process by the ASGE SOP Committee. This body developed all recommendations founded on the certainty of the evidence, balance of risks and harms, consideration of stakeholder preferences, resource utilization, and cost-effectiveness.

ASGE guideline on the role of endoscopy in the evaluation and management of choledocholithiasis.

Each year choledocholithiasis results in biliary obstruction, cholangitis, and pancreatitis in a significant number of patients. The primary treatment, ERCP, is minimally invasive but associated with adverse events in 6% to 15%. This American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) Standard of Practice (SOP) Guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for the endoscopic evaluation and treatment of choledocholithiasis. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework was used to rigorously review and synthesize the contemporary literature regarding the following topics: EUS versus MRCP for diagnosis, the role of early ERCP in gallstone pancreatitis, endoscopic papillary dilation after sphincterotomy versus sphincterotomy alone for large bile duct stones, and impact of ERCP-guided intraductal therapy for large and difficult choledocholithiasis. Comprehensive systematic reviews were also performed to assess the following: same-admission cholecystectomy for gallstone pancreatitis, clinical predictors of choledocholithiasis, optimal timing of ERCP vis-à-vis cholecystectomy, management of Mirizzi syndrome and hepatolithiasis, and biliary stent therapy for choledocholithiasis. Core clinical questions were derived using an iterative process by the ASGE SOP Committee. This body developed all recommendations founded on the certainty of the evidence, balance of risks and harms, consideration of stakeholder preferences, resource utilization, and cost-effectiveness.

Multidisciplinary management for esophageal and gastric cancer.

The management of esophageal and gastric cancer is complex and involves multiple specialists in an effort to optimize patient outcomes. Utilizing a multidisciplinary team approach starting from the initial staging evaluation ensures that all members are in agreement with the plan of care. Treatment selection for esophageal and gastric cancer often involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and palliative interventions (endoscopic and surgical), and direct communication between specialists in these fields is needed to ensure appropriate clinical decision making. At the University of Colorado, the Esophageal and Gastric Multidisciplinary Clinic was created to bring together all experts involved in treating these diseases at a weekly conference in order to provide patients with coordinated, individualized, and patient-centered care. This review details the essential elements and benefits of building a multidisciplinary program focused on treating esophageal and gastric cancer patients.

Prevalence of advanced histological features and synchronous neoplasia in patients with flat adenomas.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The prevalence of advanced histology in flat adenomas is uncertain. There are limited data on the prevalence of synchronous adenomas in patients with flat adenomas. The aims of this study were to determine whether the flat adenomas harbor advanced histology more than the polypoid adenomas and whether the presence of flat adenomas is an independent predictor of synchronous adenomas. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of data from 3 prospective clinical trials conducted at 2 tertiary care referral centers that included patients undergoing screening or surveillance colonoscopy was performed. The location, size, and morphology of each polyp resected was documented and sent for histopathological examination in a unique specimen jar. RESULTS: A total of 2931 polyps were removed in 1340 patients. Of the 1911 adenomas (65.2%), 293 (15.3%) were flat and 1618 (84.7%) were polypoid. The prevalence of advanced histology did not differ between flat and polypoid adenomas (1.4% vs 3.1%; P = .13). Multivariate analysis confirmed that the presence of at least 1 flat adenoma was a predictor of the presence of a large adenoma (P < .01; odds ratio [OR], 2.80; 95% CI, 1.86-4.22), advanced adenoma (P < .01; OR, 2.70; 95% CI, 1.80-4.06), and 3 or more adenomas (P < .01; OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.66-3.59). CONCLUSION: Although the prevalence of advanced histology in flat adenomas is similar to that of polypoid adenomas, flat adenomas are associated with increased prevalence of synchronous large and advanced adenomas. Whether these results imply shorter surveillance intervals in patients with flat adenomas needs to be explored in future studies.

Efficacy of Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Management of Small Duodenal Neuroendocrine Tumors.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for small (<20 mm) duodenal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) remains controversial because of their rarity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study of patients with surgically or endoscopically resected duodenal NETs from 2001 to 2011. The primary outcome is the rate of disease-free status following resection. A secondary outcome is the sensitivity of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in determining NET appropriateness for EMR. RESULTS: Thirty patients underwent resection of duodenal NETs (EMR 20, surgery 10). Tumor was present at the margins in 40% of EMR-resected NETs and 10% of surgically resected NETs. Five patients who underwent EMR had residual disease treated with repeat EMR (3) and surgery (2). EUS demonstrated 96% sensitivity in determining lesions limited to the submucosa. CONCLUSIONS: EMR for small duodenal NETs can be a safe and effective alternative to surgery in carefully selected patients. EUS is a useful adjunct in determining depth of invasion for duodenal NETs.

Trainee participation and adenoma detection rates during screening colonoscopies.

GOAL: To evaluate whether participation of a gastroenterology trainee had an impact on adenoma detection rate (ADR) during screening colonoscopies performed with standard-definition colonoscopes (SD-C) versus high-definition colonoscopes (HD-C). BACKGROUND: ADR is an established quality indicator of colonoscopy and efforts to improve ADR have led to technological advancements including HD-C that have a greater angle of view and produce an image with higher pixel density compared with SD-C. Moreover, other factors like trainee participation have been shown to improve adenoma detection. METHODS: This is a retrospective review of screening colonoscopies performed during 2 different time periods by 4 experienced endoscopists with or without trainee participation. There are 2 arms of this study, based on whether screening colonoscopy was performed using SD-C or HD-C. Detailed review of endoscopy and histopathologic reports was conducted. Statistical analysis was performed and odds ratio and incidence rate ratios were calculated to adjust for numerous factors. RESULTS: No significant differences were seen with trainee participation in the SD-C arm of the study. In the HD-C arm, the total number, and the proportion of subjects with: adenomas, diminutive adenomas, and right-sided adenomas were significantly higher with trainee participation. CONCLUSIONS: Trainee participation significantly improved the overall adenoma detection, specifically diminutive adenoma and right-sided adenoma detection, but only when colonoscopies were performed with HD-C. The improved image quality and resolution provided by HD-C, coupled with enhanced visual scanning an additional pair of eyes provides, may account for the differential impact of trainee participation on ADR.

Association between length of Barrett's esophagus and risk of high-grade dysplasia or adenocarcinoma in patients without dysplasia.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: It is not clear whether length of Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a risk factor for high-grade dysplasia (HGD) or esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) in patients with nondysplastic BE. We studied the risk of progression to HGD or EAC in patients with nondysplastic BE, based on segment length. METHODS: We analyzed data from a large cohort of patients participating in the BE Study-a multicenter outcomes project comprising 5 US tertiary care referral centers. Histologic changes were graded as low-grade dysplasia, HGD, or EAC. The study included patients with BE of documented length without dysplasia and at least 1 year of follow-up evaluation (n = 1175; 88% male), and excluded patients who developed HGD or EAC within 1 year of their BE diagnosis. The mean follow-up period was 5.5 y (6463 patient-years). The annual risk of HGD and EAC was plotted in 3-cm increments (≤3 cm, 4-6 cm, 7-9 cm, 10-12 cm, and ≥13 cm). We calculated the association between time to progression and length of BE. RESULTS: The mean BE length was 3.6 cm; 44 patients developed HGD or EAC, with an annual incidence rate of 0.67%/y. Compared with nonprogressors, patients who developed HGD or EAC had longer BE segments (6.1 vs 3.5 cm; P < .001). Logistic regression analysis showed a 28% increase in risk of HGD or EAC for every 1-cm increase in BE length (P = .01). Patients with BE segment lengths of 3 cm or shorter took longer to develop HGD or EAC than those with lengths longer than 4 cm (6 vs 4 y; P = nonsignificant). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with BE without dysplasia, length of BE was associated with progression to HGD or EAC. The results support the development of a risk stratification scheme for these patients based on length of BE segment.

Weight loss can lead to resolution of gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms: a prospective intervention trial.

OBJECTIVE: Weight gain is an important risk factor for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, whether weight loss can lead to resolution of GERD symptoms is not clear. Our aim was to measure the impact of weight loss on GERD symptoms. DESIGN AND METHODS: In a prospective cohort study at a tertiary referral center, overweight/obese subjects (BMI 25-39.9 kg/m2) were enrolled in a structured weight loss program. Weight loss strategies included dietary modifications, increased physical activity and behavioral changes. At baseline and at 6 months, BMI and waist circumference were measured and all participants completed a validated reflux disease questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 332 adult subjects, mean age 46 years and 66% women were prospectively enrolled. At baseline, the mean body weight, BMI, and waist circumference were 101 (±18) kg, 35 (±5) kg/m2 and 103 (±13) cm. At 6 months, majority of the subjects (97%) lost weight (average weight loss: 13 ± 7.7 kg) and as compared with baseline, there was a significant decrease in the overall prevalence of GERD (15 vs. 37%; P < 0.01) and the mean GERD symptom score (1.8 vs. 5.5; P < 0.01). Overall, 81% of the subjects had reduction in GERD symptom scores; 65% had complete resolution and 15% had partial resolution of reflux symptoms. There was a significant correlation between % body weight loss and reduction in GERD symptom scores (r = 0.17, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, the overall prevalence of GERD symptoms is high (37%) in overweight and obese subjects. A structured weight loss program can lead to complete resolution of GERD symptoms in the majority of these subjects.