Successful Percutaneous Ultrasonic Lithotripsy of Gallstones.

Background: Acute calculous cholecystitis is the obstruction of the cystic duct by a gallstone that leads to inflammation of the gallbladder necessitating cholecystectomy. Case Series: We present the cases of 2 patients with acute calculous cholecystitis who were deemed ineligible candidates for cholecystectomy because of their complicating medical histories. Both patients initially underwent cholecystostomy and drain placement with interventional radiology for management of acute calculous cholecystitis. Their large gallstones remained refractory to attempts at removal by electrohydraulic lithotripsy via the cholecystostomy access. The patients' gallstones were successfully removed via percutaneous ultrasonic lithotripsy during a collaborative procedure with interventional radiology and urology. Conclusion: An interdisciplinary approach using percutaneous cholecystolithotomy with rigid ultrasonic lithotripsy is an effective method for removing challenging gallstones in patients for whom traditional approaches fail.

Necrosis esofágica aguda (esófago negro) asociado a neoplasias digestivas / Acute esophageal necrosis (black esophagus) associated with digestive neoplasms

INTRODUCCIÓN. La necrosis esofágica aguda es un síndrome raro que se caracteriza endoscópicamente por una apariencia negra circunferencial irregular o difusa de la mucosa esofágica intratorácica, la afectación es generalmente del esófago distal y la transición abrupta de mucosa normal en la unión gastroesofágica, con extensión proximal variable. CASOS. Se presentan dos casos con diferentes comorbiliades, presentación de signos y síntomas, antecedentes y tratamiento, teniendo en común el diagnóstico a través de endoscopía digestiva alta. RESULTADOS. Caso clínico 1: tratamiento clínico basado en hidratación, suspensión de vía oral, omeprazol intravenoso y sucralfato; mala evolución clínica caracterizada por: disfagia, intolerancia oral y recurrencia del sangrado digestivo alto, se realiza colocación de gastrostomía endoscópica. Caso clínico 2: esófago con mucosa con fibrina y parches de necrosis extensa, se realiza compensación tanto de foco infeccioso pulmonar como hidratación y nutrición, en estudios complementarios se observa masa colónica, con estudio histopatológico confirmatorio de adenocarcinoma de colon en estado avanzado. DISCUSIÓN. La esofagitis necrotizante aguda es una entidad inusual, de baja prevalencia e incidencia, asociada con estados de hipoperfusión sistémica y múltiples comorbilidades que favorezcan un sustrato isquémico. Al revisar los reportes de casos que hay en la literatura médica, los casos que reportamos se correlaciona con las características clínicas, epidemiológicas, endoscópicas y factores de riesgo causales de la enfermedad. La presentación clínica más frecuente es el sangrado digestivo alto, que se debe correlacionar con el hallazgo endoscópico clásico. Nuestro primer caso reportado termina con la colocación de una gastrostomía para poder alimentarse. CONCLUSIÓN. El pronóstico de la necrosis esofágica aguda es malo y se requiere un alto índice de sospecha clínica y conocimiento de esta infrecuente patología para un diagnóstico temprano y un manejo oportuno. Se requiere una evaluación por endoscopia digestiva alta. Es una causa de sangrado gastrointestinal que conlleva tasas altas de mortalidad, principalmente en adultos mayores frágiles. El reconocimiento temprano y la reanimación agresiva son los principios fundamentales para un mejor resultado de la enfermedad.

INTRODUCTION. Acute esophageal necrosis is a rare syndrome that is characterized endoscopically by an irregular or diffuse circumferential black appearance of the intrathoracic esophageal mucosa, the involvement is generally of the distal esophagus and the abrupt transition of normal mucosa at the gastroesophageal junction, with variable proximal extension. CASES. Two cases are presented with different comorbidities, presentation of signs and symptoms, history and treatment, having in common the diagnosis through upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. RESULTS. Clinical case 1: clinical treatment based on hydration, oral suspension, intravenous omeprazole and sucralfate; poor clinical evolution characterized by: dysphagia, oral intolerance and recurrence of upper digestive bleeding, endoscopic gastrostomy placement was performed. Clinical case 2: esophagus with mucosa with fibrin and patches of extensive necrosis, compensation of both the pulmonary infectious focus and hydration and nutrition is performed, in complementary studies a colonic mass is observed, with a confirmatory histopathological study of colon adenocarcinoma in an advanced state. DISCUSSION. Acute necrotizing esophagitis is an unusual entity, with low prevalence and incidence, associated with states of systemic hypoperfusion and multiple comorbidities that favor an ischemic substrate. When reviewing the case reports in the medical literature, the cases we report correlate with the clinical, epidemiological, endoscopic characteristics and causal risk factors of the disease. The most common clinical presentation is upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which must be correlated with the classic endoscopic finding. Our first reported case ends with the placement of a gastrostomy to be able to feed. CONCLUSION. The prognosis of acute esophageal necrosis is poor and a high index of clinical suspicion and knowledge of this rare pathology is required for early diagnosis and timely management. Evaluation by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is required. It is a cause of gastrointestinal bleeding that carries high mortality rates, mainly in frail older adults. Early recognition and aggressive resuscitation are the fundamental principles for a better outcome of the disease.

Seguridad de la endoscopia y biopsia esofágica en un paciente con esofagitis eosinofílica y enfermedad de Von Willebrand / Safety of esophageal endoscopy and biopsy in a patient with eosinophilic esophagitis and Von Willebrand disease

La esofagitis eosinofílica (EoE) es una enfermedad causada por una respuesta inmune frente a antígenos alimentarios en contacto con la mucosa esofágica; por su parte, la enfermedad de Von Willebrand (EVW) es el trastorno hemorrágico hereditario más común en los seres humanos. La característica central de todos los tipos de EVW, es la presencia de cantidades reducidas o de formas anormales del factor de Von Willebrand (FVW) en el torrente sanguíneo. Debido a que no se han reportado casos previos de EVW tipo 2A asociada a EoE, se describe este caso clínico con el objetivo principal de dar a conocer el hallazgo casual de estas dos patologías, la seguridad de la evaluación por endoscopia de vías digestivas altas y el pronóstico de posibles complicaciones

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a disease caused by an immune response against food antigens in contact with the esophageal mucosa; alternatively, Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in humans. The central characteristic of all types of VWD is the presence of reduced amounts or abnormal forms of VWF in the bloodstream. Since no previous cases of VWD type 2A associated to EoE have been reported, this clinical case is described with the main objective to present the coincidental finding of these two pathologies, the safety of the evaluation by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and the prognosis of possible complications

Gastrostomia endoscópica percutânea: perfil epidemiológico, indicações e complicações / Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: epidemiological profile, indications, and complications

Introdução: A Gastrostomia Endoscópica Percutânea (GEP) é um procedimento de acesso à luz gástrica, descrito inicialmente em 1980, constituindo um grande avanço no manejo de pacientes com necessidade de nutrição enteral prolongada. Apresenta utilização em um largo espectro de doenças, em diversas faixas etárias e com baixo índice de complicações, sendo, portanto, uma ferramenta importante no cuidado aos pacientes. Objetivo: Descrever o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes submetidos à GEP, as indicações, os índices e tipos de complicações durante e após o procedimento. Métodos: Estudo de coorte retrospectiva, realizado por meio da coleta de laudos endoscópicos e em prontuários eletrônicos de pacientes atendidos em hospital terciário. Resultados: Foram incluídos 172 pacientes, com média de 69,9 anos (±16,6), maioria do sexo feminino (51,7%) e procedentes do município onde o estudo foi realizado (56,7%). A principal doença de base foi acidente vascular encefálico do tipo isquêmico (27,3%), seguido de outras doenças cérebro-vasculares, demenciais e neoplásicas. O tempo médio de uso prévio de sonda nasoentérica (SNE) foi de 32,2 dias (±45), sendo em 29,3% acima de 30 dias. Drogas antitrombóticas durante a internação foram usadas em 78,5% dos pacientes, tendo 45,9% realizado a GEP em vigência destas medicações. O índice de complicações intraoperatórias foi de 3,4% e o de pós-operatórias, de 3,5%. Conclusão: Destaca-se o tempo de uso prévio de SNE, maior do que o recomendado, e, principalmente, a presença de medicação antitrombótica durante o procedimento em boa parte da amostra. Os índices de complicações foram baixos, de modo semelhante à literatura.

Introduction: Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) is a procedure to access the gastric lumen and was initially described in 1980, representing a major advance in the management of patients requiring prolonged enteral nutrition. It is used in a large number of diseases, in several age groups with low complication rates, thus being an important tool in patient care. Objective: To describe the epidemiological profile of patients undergoing PEG, its indications, and rates and types of complications during and after the procedure. Method: Retrospective, cohort study conducted through the collection of endoscopic reports and electronic medical records of patients seen in a tertiary hospital. Results: A total of 172 patients were included, with mean age of 69.9 years (±16.6), with a predominance of female patients (51.7%) and of those coming from the municipality where the study was conducted (56.7%). The main underlying disease was ischemic stroke (27.3%), followed by other cerebrovascular diseases, dementias, and neoplasms. Mean time of previous use of nasoenteric tube (NET) was 32.2 days (±45), being greater than 30 days in 29.3% of the cases. Antithrombotic drugs were used during hospitalization in 78.5% of patients, and 45.9% underwent PEG while they were using these medications. The rates of intra-operative and post-operative complications were 3.4% and 3.5%, respectively. Conclusions: It is worth noting the time of previous use of NET, which was greater than the recommended, and especially the use of antithrombotic therapy during the procedure by most of the sample. Rates of complication were low, in line with the literature.

Endoscopy Is Not Associated with Infectious Adverse Events After Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Patients with recent hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) are considered high risk for gastrointestinal endoscopy due to the potential for procedural bacterial translocation. Prior studies investigating these risks do not account for the higher baseline rate of infectious complications among those who are immunocompromised. We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with recent HCT who underwent endoscopy and their matched controls who did not undergo endoscopy. METHODS: We identified patients who underwent HCT followed by upper and/or lower endoscopy at the University of Pennsylvania from 2000 to 2018. Individuals were matched 1:1 by age, sex, and type of HCT to controls who underwent HCT without subsequent endoscopy. Infectious adverse events were assessed by Sepsis-3 and Sepsis-2 criteria. Factors associated with infectious adverse events after endoscopy/index date were assessed using multivariable conditional logistic regression. RESULTS: We identified 149 patients who underwent HCT and endoscopy and 149 matched controls who underwent HCT without endoscopy. Sepsis-3 infectious adverse events occurred in 3.4% of patients in each group. Sepsis-2 infectious adverse events occurred in 20.1% of patients who underwent endoscopy compared to 19.5% of controls. There was no association between endoscopy and Sepsis-2 infectious adverse events in the multivariable regression analysis (adjusted odds ratio 1.65, 95% CI 0.51-5.26). CONCLUSIONS: When compared to controls with similar immune statuses, patients who underwent endoscopy after HCT did not have a higher risk of infectious adverse events. These results may inform clinical decision making regarding the risks and benefits of endoscopic management after HCT.

Síndrome de Rapunzel más que una leyenda infantil: caso clínico pediátrico / Syndrome of Rapunzel more than an infantile legend: pediatric clinical case

RESUMEN Fundamento: el tricobezoar es poco frecuente y el síndrome de Rapunzel es muy raro, pero se debe tener presente como diagnóstico diferencial en niñas con trastornos psicológicos y tricofagia, que refieran o no manifestaciones gastrointestinales. Objetivo: presentar el caso de una escolar de nueve años con historia de tricofagia que acude a servicio de Gastroenterología por presentar tumor palpable localizado en epigastrio. Presentación del caso: paciente de nueve años, femenina, que presenta tricotilomanía y tricofagia desde los dos años de vida, que acude por tumor palpable en epigastrio, sin otras manifestaciones clínicas. Conclusiones: el diagnóstico temprano del tricobezoar evita las complicaciones que pueden ser graves y se recomienda un manejo multidisciplinario con el servicio de psiquiatría para controlar la enfermedad de base. La evolución de la paciente fue favorable.

ABSTRACT Background: the tricobezoar is not very frequent and the syndrome of Rapunzel is very strange, but it should be taken into account as differential diagnosis in girls with psychological dysfunctions and trichophagia that refer or not gastrointestinal manifestations. Objective: to present the case of a nine year-old school girl with trichophagia history that goes to service of Gastroenterology to present palpable tumor in epigastrium. Case report: patient of nine years, feminine that presents trichotollomania and trichophagia since she was two years old, she goes for palpable tumor in lengthened epigastrium, without other clinical manifestations. Conclusions: early diagnosis of trichobezoar avoids complications that can be serious, and multidisciplinary management with the psychiatry service is recommended to control the underlying disease. The evolution of the patient was favorable.

Tumor neuroendocrino en recto simulando una neoplasia benigna: reporte de caso y revisión de a literatura / Neuroendocrine tumor in the rectum simulating a benign neoplasm: case report and literature review

Los tumores neuroendocrinos se definen como un grupo heterogéneo de neoplasias de origen epitelial, provenientes de células enterocromafines diseminadas por todo el organismo, y representan alrededor del 1 al 4 % de todas las neoplasias. Su mayor distribución se encuentra en el tracto gastrointestinal, donde se localiza el 75 % de los tumores neuroendocrinos, siendo los ubicados en el recto, el 27 % de todos los que afectan el tracto gastrointestinal. A propósito de esta revisión de tema, presentamos el caso de un paciente de 71 años de edad, que consultó por sangrado rectal rojo rutilante, sin otra sintomatología asociada, y se le diagnosticó un tumor neuroendocrino grado 1, que se comportaba como una lesión benigna del recto

Neuroendocrine tumors are defined as a heterogeneous group of neoplasms of epithelial origin from enterochromaffin cells disseminated throughout the body, and represent about 1% to 4% of all neoplasms. Its largest distribution is found in the gastrointestinal tract, where 75% of neuroendocrine tumors are located, being 27% of those in the rectum. We present the case of a 71-year-old patient who consulted for bright red blood per rectum, with no other associated symptoms, and was diagnosed with a grade 1 neuroendocrine tumor, which behaved as a benign lesion of the rectum

Impact of the Interval between Previous Endoscopic Exam and Diagnosis on the Mortality and Treatment Modality of Undifferentiated-Type Gastric Cancer.

PURPOSE: The impact of the interval between previous endoscopy and diagnosis on the treatment modality or mortality of undifferentiated (UD)-type gastric cancer is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of endoscopic screening interval on the stage, cancer-related mortality, and treatment methods of UD-type gastric cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of newly diagnosed patients with UD gastric cancer in 2013, in whom the interval between previous endoscopy and diagnosis could be determined. The patients were classified into different groups according to the period from the previous endoscopy to diagnosis (<12 months, 12-23 months, 24-35 months, ≥36 months, and no history of endoscopy), and the outcomes were compared between the groups. In addition, patients who underwent endoscopic and surgical treatment were reclassified based on the final treatment results. RESULTS: The number of enrolled patients was 440, with males representing 64.1% of the study population; 11.8% of the participants reported that they had undergone endoscopy for the first time in their cancer diagnosis. The percentage of stage I cancer at diagnosis significantly decreased as the interval from the previous endoscopy to diagnosis increased (65.4%, 63.2%, 64.2%, 45.9%, and 35.2% for intervals of <12 months, 12-23 months, 24-35 months, ≥36 months, and no previous endoscopy, respectively, P<0.01). Cancer-related mortality was significantly lower for a 3-year interval of endoscopy (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A 3-year interval of endoscopic screening reduces gastric-cancer-related mortality, particularly in cases of UD histology.

[Sialendoscopy : Indications and treatment]. / Sialendoskopie : Indikationen und Durchführung.

There is plethora of treatment options for surgeons dealing with salivary stones. During recent decades, emphasis has been laid on gland-preserving minimally invasive techniques for stone removal. In this context, visualization of salivary ducts with semirigid endoscopes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, the so-called sialendoscopy, has become increasingly important. This article gives an overview of indications for sialendoscopy and how the procedure is performed. Furthermore, sialendoscopy is discussed in the context of other modalities for salivary stone treatment.

Sedation practices for routine gastrointestinal endoscopy: a systematic review of recommendations.

BACKGROUND: Sedation is commonly used in gastrointestinal endoscopy; however, considerable variability in sedation practices has been reported. The objective of this review was to identify and synthesize existing recommendations on sedation practices for routine gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures. METHODS: We systematically reviewed guidelines and position statements identified through a search of PubMed, guidelines databases, and websites of relevant professional associations from January 1, 2005 to May 10, 2019. We included English-language guidelines/position statements with recommendations relating to sedation for adults undergoing routine gastrointestinal endoscopy. Documents with guidance only for complex endoscopic procedures were excluded. We extracted and synthesized recommendations relating to: 1) choice of sedatives, 2) sedation administration, 3) personnel responsible for monitoring sedated patients, 4) skills and training of individuals involved in sedation, and 5) equipment required for monitoring sedated patients. We assessed the quality of included documents using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation (AGREE) II tool. RESULTS: We identified 19 guidelines and 7 position statements meeting inclusion criteria. Documents generally agreed that a single, trained registered nurse can administer moderate sedation, monitor the patient, and assist with brief, interruptible tasks. Documents also agreed on the routine use of pulse oximetry and blood pressure monitoring during endoscopy. However, recommendations relating to the drugs to be used for sedation, the healthcare personnel capable of administering propofol and monitoring patients sedated with propofol, and the need for capnography when monitoring sedated patients varied. Only 9 documents provided a grade or level of evidence in support of their recommendations. CONCLUSIONS: Recommendations for sedation practices in routine gastrointestinal endoscopy differ across guidelines/position statements and often lack supporting evidence with potential implications for patient safety and procedural efficiency.

Endoscopic characteristics of patients with complete pathological response after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for gastric and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinomas / Características endoscópicas de pacientes com resposta patológica completa após quimioterapia neoadjuvante para adenocarcinomas gástricos e de junção esofagogástrica

ABSTRACT Background: Gastric and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma are responsible for approximately 13.5% of cancer-related deaths. Given the fact that these tumors are not typically detected until they are already in the advanced stages, neoadjuvancy plays a fundamental role in improving long-term survival. Identification of those with complete pathological response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is a major challenge, with effects on organ preservation, extent of resection, and additional surgery. There is little or no information in the literature about which endoscopic signs should be evaluated after NAC, or even when such re-evaluation should occur. Aim: To describe the endoscopic aspects of patients with gastric and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinomas who underwent NAC and achieved pCR, and to determine the accuracy of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) in predicting the pCR. Methods: A survey was conducted of the medical records of patients with these tumors who were submitted to gastrectomy after NAC, with anatomopathological result of pCR. Results: Twenty-nine patients were identified who achieved pCR after NAC within the study period. Endoscopic responses were used to classify patients into two groups: G1-endoscopic findings consistent with pCR and G2-endoscopic findings not consistent with pCR. Endoscopic evaluation in G1 was present in an equal percentage (47.4%; p=0.28) in Borrmann classification II and III. In this group, the predominance was in the gastric body (57.9%; p=0.14), intestinal subtype with 42.1% (p=0.75), undifferentiated degree, 62.5% (p=0.78), Herb+ in 73.3% (p=0.68). The most significant finding, however, was that the time interval between NAC and EGD was longer for G1 than G2 (24.4 vs. 10.2 days, p=0.008). Conclusion: EGD after NAC seems to be a useful tool for predicting pCR, and it may be possible to use it to create a reliable response classification. In addition, the time interval between NAC and EGD appears to significantly influence the predictive power of endoscopy for pCR.

RESUMO Racional: O adenocarcinoma gástrico e da junção esofagogástrica é responsável por aproximadamente 13,5% das mortes relacionadas ao câncer. Dado que esses tumores não são normalmente detectados até que já estejam em estágios avançados, a neoadjuvância desempenha um papel fundamental na melhoria da sobrevida em longo prazo. A identificação daqueles com resposta patológica completa (pCR) após a quimioterapia neoadjuvante (NAC) é um grande desafio, com efeitos na preservação do órgão, extensão da ressecção e cirurgia adicional. Há pouca ou nenhuma informação na literatura sobre quais sinais endoscópicos devem ser avaliados após a NAC, ou mesmo quando essa reavaliação deve ocorrer. Objetivo: Descrever os aspectos endoscópicos de pacientes com adenocarcinoma gástrico e da junção esofagogástrica que foram submetidos à quimioterapia neoadjuvante e alcançaram pCR, e determinar a acurácia da esofagogastroduodenoscopia (EGD) em predizer a pCR. Métodos: Foram revisados os prontuários de pacientes submetidos à gastrectomia subtotal e total após NAC, com resultado anatomopatológico de pCR. Resultados: Vinte e nove pacientes que alcançaram pCR após NAC foram identificados no período estudado. As respostas endoscópicas foram usadas para classificar os pacientes em dois grupos: G1- achados endoscópicos consistentes com pCR, G2 - achados endoscópicos não consistentes com pCR. A avaliação endoscópica no G1 esteve presente em igual percentual (47,4%; p=0,28) na classificação de Borrmann II e III. Nesse grupo, a predominância foi no corpo gástrico (57,9%; p=0,14), subtipo intestinal com 42,1% (p=0,75), grau indiferenciado, 62,5% (p=0,78), Herb+ em 73,3% (p=0,68). O achado mais significativo, no entanto, foi que o intervalo de tempo entre NAC e EGD foi maior para G1 do que G2 (24,4 vs. 10,2 dias, p=0,008). Conclusão: A EGD após NAC, nessa pesquisa, sugeriu ser método útil para prever pCR, mediante uma classificação de resposta confiável. Além disso, o intervalo de tempo entre NAC e EGD parece influenciar significativamente a sua capacidade preditiva de diagnosticar a pCR.

Desempeño del índice FIB-4 en el despistaje de várices esofágicas en pacientes con el diagnóstico de cirrosis hepática / Performance of the FIB-4 index in esophageal varices screening in patients with the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis

RESUMEN Introducción: El diagnóstico de várices esofágicas en pacientes cirróticos se realiza mediante la endoscopía digestiva alta. Se han estudiado predictores no invasivos para el diagnóstico de estas. Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar el desempeño del índice FIB-4 en el despistaje de várices esofágicas en pacientes con diagnóstico de cirrosis hepática. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal analítico en cuatro hospitales nacionales utilizando historias clínicas de pacientes cirróticos. Se realizó el análisis univariado y bivariado, cálculo de sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo y negativo, razón de verosimilitud positiva y negativa del índice FIB-4 para el despistaje de várices esofágicas, tamaño de estas y profilaxis. Se construyeron curvas ROC para cada grupo de análisis. Resultados: Se incluyó 289 pacientes con diagnóstico de cirrosis hepática, la mayor parte fueron de sexo masculino (54,33%). 77,85% presentaron várices esofágicas. La distribución del tamaño de várices fue de 19,03%, 35,99% y 22,84% para várices grandes, medianas y pequeñas, respectivamente. En el análisis del índice FIB-4 con la presencia de várices se encontró una sensibilidad de 81,3% y una especificidad de 37,5% (AUC: 0,57). Para el tamaño de várices se encontró una sensibilidad 81,8% y una especificidad de 23,9% (AUC: 0,50). En el análisis de FIB-4 para grupos de profilaxis se encontró una sensibilidad de 81,8% y una especificidad de 28,5% (AUC: 0,54). Conclusiones: El índice FIB-4 no tiene un buen desempeño en el despistaje de la presencia várices esofágicas y su tamaño en pacientes con diagnóstico de cirrosis hepática.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The diagnosis of esophageal varices in cirrhotic patients is made by the upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Multiple non-invasive predictors have been studied for the diag-nosis of esophageal varices. The objective of this study is to testthe FIB4 index as screening of esophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional analytic study was developed in four national hospital using hepatic cirrhosis patient's medi-cal files. We assessed the information using univariate and bivariate analysis, sensitivity, speci-ficity, predictive positive and negative value, the positive and negative likelihood ratio calcu-lation of the esophageal varices screening and its size. We built ROC curve for every analysis group. Results: The study included 289 liver cirrhosis patients. Most of the patients were male (54.33%). 77.85% patients had esophageal varices. The distribution of varices was 19.03%, 35.99% and 22.84% for large, medium and small varices, respectively. In the FIB-4 index analysis for the presence of varices, it was found a sensitivity of 81.3%, specificity of 37.5% (AUC: 0.57). The calculation for variceal size showed a sensitivity of 81.8%, specificity of 23.9% (AUC: 0.50). In the analysis of FIB-4 index for prophylaxis groups was found a sensitivity of 81.8% and a specificity of 28.5% (AUC: 0.54). Conclusions: The FIB-4 index has no good performance in the screening for the presence of esophageal varices and its size in liver cirrhosis patients.

Comparison of procedural sequence in same-day bidirectional endoscopy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To compare the efficacy and safety of procedural sequence in same-day bidirectional endoscopy. METHODS: We searched OVID-MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar to identify randomized controlled trials that compared the procedural sequences in same-day bidirectional endoscopy, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy. The sedative and analgesic doses required, discomfort and satisfaction scores, procedure time, recovery time, adenoma detection rate, and failed cecal intubation were evaluated. Adverse effects, including respiratory and cardiovascular complications, were also assessed. RESULTS: We included six studies, with 1,848 patients in total. The requirement for sedative treatment was significantly lesser in the EGD-colonoscopy sequence than in the colonoscopy-EGD sequence (standardized mean difference [SMD], -0.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.54 to -0.24; p = 0.12; I2 = 49%). Discomfort, scored by patients during the EGD procedure, was significantly lesser in the EGD-colonoscopy sequence than in the colonoscopy-EGD sequence (SMD, -0.45; 95% CI, -0.80 to -0.09; p = 0.02; I2 = 73%), while it was comparable during colonoscopy between the two sequences. Recovery time was significantly shorter in the EGD-colonoscopy sequence than in the colonoscopy-EGD sequence (SMD, -0.47; 95% CI, -0.65 to -0.30; p = 0.28; I2 = 21%). Total procedure duration, EGD, colonoscopy, cecal intubation time and incidence, incidences of pathologic findings, and adenoma detection were comparable between the two sequences. There was no significant difference in the incidences of desaturation, hypotension, hypertension, bradycardia, and tachycardia between the two sequences. CONCLUSION: When conducting same-day bidirectional endoscopy, EGD followed by colonoscopy is the most beneficial sequence to be used because patients require lower sedative doses, recover faster, and report lesser discomfort.

Review of Simultaneous Double Stenting Using Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Biliary Drainage Techniques in Combined Gastric Outlet and Biliary Obstructions.

Concomitant malignant gastric outlet obstruction and biliary obstruction may occur in patients with advanced cancers affecting these anatomical regions. This scenario presents a unique challenge to the endoscopist in selecting an optimal management approach. We sought to determine the efficacy and safety of endoscopic techniques for treating simultaneous gastric outlet and biliary obstruction (GOBO) with endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance for biliary drainage. An extensive literature search for peer-reviewed published cases yielded 6 unique case series that either focused on or included the use of EUS-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) with simultaneous gastroduodenal stenting. In our composite analysis, a total of 51 patients underwent simultaneous biliary drainage through EUS, with an overall reported technical success rate of 100% for both duodenal stenting and biliary drainage. EUS-guided choledochoduodenostomy or EUS-guided hepaticogastrostomy was employed as the initial technique. In 34 cases in which clinical success was ascribed, 100% derived clinical benefit. The common adverse effects of double stenting included cholangitis, stent migration, bleeding, food impaction, and pancreatitis. We conclude that simultaneous double stenting with EUS-BD and gastroduodenal stenting for GOBO is associated with high success rates. It is a feasible and practical alternative to percutaneous biliary drainage or surgery for palliation in patients with associated advanced malignancies.

Ventilation mask adapted for endoscopy during the COVID-19 pandemic

SUMMARY In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, endoscopy services must adopt preventive measures to maintain proper functioning due to a high risk of disease contagion. Triage protocols before and after the procedure, personal protective equipment, and environmental contamination control are some of the endoscopy society's recommendations. However, the risk of infection may remain high due to poor control over the source of contamination.Using a combination of standardized supplies and accessories in a hospital, a ventilation mask adapted to be used in endoscopic procedures is proposed to reduce COVID-19 contamination.

RESUMO No contexto da pandemia de COVID-19, o serviço de endoscopia deve adotar ações preventivas para manter seu funcionamento devido ao grande risco de contágio da doença. Protocolos de triagem antes e após o procedimento, equipamentos de proteção individual e controle de contaminação do ambiente fazem parte das recomendações das sociedades de endoscopia. Entretanto, o risco de infecção pode permanecer alto devido ao pouco controle da fonte de disseminação de contaminantes. A partir da combinação de suprimentos e de acessórios padronizados em um hospital, uma máscara de ventilação adaptada para ser usada em procedimentos endoscópicos é proposta com a finalidade de reduzir a contaminação por COVID-19.

Endoscopic Retrieval vs Observation in Cylindrical Battery Ingestion.

Background: Battery ingestion, particularly in the pediatric population, has become more common since the development of button batteries. Consequently, formal recommendations regarding the management of this battery type have been developed. Larger cylindrical battery ingestion is less common, with fewer cases reported. As such, no clear practice guidelines have been developed for the management of cylindrical battery ingestion. Case Report: We present a case of an incarcerated adult who ingested 2 AA batteries. One battery was retrieved endoscopically, but the second passed into the distal small bowel beyond endoscopic means of retrieval. The second battery passed spontaneously via the rectum after administration of laxatives and supportive care. Conclusion: Our case and review of the literature demonstrate that nonsurgical, conservative management with close clinical monitoring is possible in a hospital setting after cylindrical battery ingestion. Cases with concerning clinical symptoms or a history of damage to the battery casing warrant endoscopic or surgical intervention.

Assessment of Esophageal Motor Disorders Using High-resolution Manometry in Esophageal Dysphagia With Normal Endoscopy.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The distribution and esophageal motor characteristics of Chinese patients with esophageal dysphagia who exhibit no structural abnormalities on esophagogastroduodenoscopy remain unclear. Our aim is to assess the esophageal motor patterns using high-resolution manometry (HRM) and classify them according to the Chicago classification version 3.0 (CC v3.0). Furthermore, we compared the CC v3.0 and the previous version 2.0 (CC v2.0) for diagnosis of motor disorders. METHODS: Two hundred thirty-six (mean age 48.4 ± 12.2 years, 61.9% female) patients with esophageal dysphagia were included for analysis of motor function using HRM. All participants were administered a questionnaire to determine Eckardt scores before HRM. RESULTS: According to the CC v3.0, 57 (24.2%) patients showed evidence of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction and were classified as Group 1. Eighteen (7.6%) patients with major disorders of peristalsis were classified as Group 2. Minor disorders of peristalsis (Group 3) were much more frequent (129 [54.7%] patients). Thirty-two (13.6%) patients had normal esophageal manometry were classified as Group 4. All patients with abnormal pH or pH impedance monitoring (n = 44) had minor motor disorders (ineffective esophageal motility [IEM] = 34, fragmented peristalsis = 10). Based on motor category, the Eckardt score was 4.7 ± 0.1 in Group 1, 4.5 ± 0.3 in Group 2, 3.5 ± 0.1 in Group 3, and 3.9 ± 0.1 in Group 4. CONCLUSIONS: IEM was the most common esophageal motor disorder in patients with esophageal dysphagia who showed no structural abnormality on endoscopy. While a high Eckardt score suggests outflow obstruction or a major motor disorder, a low score suggests IEM.

A Case of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in situ Arising from Esophageal Squamous Papilloma.

Squamous papilloma is a common benign tumor of the esophagus. Patients with papilloma are usually asymptomatic, and they are diagnosed incidentally during esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Most papillomas are small and easily removed by forceps biopsy. Recurrence of papilloma after removal is rare. Human papilloma virus infection is supposed to play a role in the development of esophageal papilloma; however, malignant transformation of papilloma is extremely unusual. Here, we report a case of malignant transformation of esophageal squamous papilloma at the gastroesophageal junction into squamous cell carcinoma in situ, which was treated by endoscopic submucosal dissection.

Endoscopy Timing in Patients with Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The role of very early (≤12 hours) endoscopy in nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding is controversial. We aimed to compare results of very early and early (12-24 hours) endoscopy in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding demonstrating low-risk versus high-risk features and nonvariceal versus variceal bleeding. METHODS: This retrospective study included patients with nonvariceal and variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The primary outcome was a composite of inpatient death, rebleeding, or need for surgery or intensive care unit admission. Endoscopy timing was defined as very early and early. We performed the analysis in two subgroups: (1) high-risk vs. low-risk patients and (2) variceal vs. nonvariceal bleeding. RESULTS: A total of 102 patients were included, of whom 59.8% underwent urgent endoscopy. Patients who underwent very early endoscopy received endoscopic therapy more frequently (p=0.001), but there was no improvement in other clinical outcomes. Furthermore, patients at low risk and with nonvariceal bleeding who underwent very early endoscopy had a higher risk of the composite outcome. CONCLUSION: Very early endoscopy does not seem to be associated with improved clinical outcomes and may lead to poorer outcomes in specific populations with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The actual benefit of very early endoscopy remains controversial and should be further clarified.

Presence of Helicobacter Pylori in the Stomach and Laryngeal Mucosal Linings in Patients with Laryngeal Cancer.

Helicobacter (H.) pylori is the cause of one of the most common chronic bacterial infections in humans. Risk factors for the development of laryngeal cancer are cigarette smoke, alcohol, and human papillomavirus. Several papers report on H. pylori isolated in tooth plaque, saliva, middle ear and sinuses. Many articles describe the presence of H. pylori in laryngeal cancer cases, however, without noting the possible source of infection, i.e. stomach or oral cavity. The aim of this study was to determine which patients and to what extent simultaneously developed H. pylori colonization in the stomach and the larynx. Prospective examinations were performed in 51 patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. The study group included patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma histopathologically confirmed by two independent pathologists. The patients underwent fiber esophagogastroduodenoscopy with tumor tissue biopsy. Laryngeal and gastric biopsies were ex-amined by histologic staining technique for histopathologic detection of H. pylori and with DNA analyses using the standardized fluorescent ABI Helicobacter plus-minus PCR assay. Laryngeal car-cinoma patients showed positive H. pylori test results simultaneously in the laryngeal and stomach areas, implying H. pylori transmission from the stomach to the laryngeal area. In addition, H. pylori positive test results along with negative H. pylori results in the stomach region were also recorded, suggesting a possible bacteria migration from the oral cavity. In conclusion, H. pylori was found in the area of laryngeal carcinoma, and its migration appeared likely to occur both upwards (from the stomach to the mouth) and downwards (from the oral cavity to the stomach).