Omental wrap: Radiographic diagnosis confirmed surgically - Report of two cases in Grenada.

Omental wrapping is a common cause of peritoneal catheter malfunction. This diagnosis should be confirmed by radiography before proceeding with surgical omentectomy. We report two cases of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter outflow obstruction from our developing PD program in Grenada, in which contrast studies accurately diagnosed omental wrap, allowing for prompt surgical correction. In both cases, the contrast study indicated the presence of omental wrapping, confirmed at time of surgical correction. Radiographic features of omental wrap are distinctive, which allows for reliable differentiation from other causes of obstruction. Radiographic contrast study reliably diagnoses the cause of peritoneal catheter obstruction, permitting prompt diagnosis and treatment. This is vital for regions with limited access to haemodialysis.

Alicaforsen: An Emerging Therapeutic Agent for Ulcerative Colitis and Refractory Pouchitis.

Pouchitis is a relatively common complication that develops following ileal pouch-anal anastomosis in patients with complicated ulcerative colitis (UC). Both pouchitis and UC share similarities in their development, as well as in the mechanisms involving mediators of the inflammatory process. In the recent years, the discovery and investigation of biological therapies have led to advancement in the management of these disorders, and the continuation of research on this novel area holds strong implications for a future reduction in the use of invasive surgical procedures. Alicaforsen represents one of these emerging therapeutic agents, and has demonstrated promising results in both preclinical and clinical settings. This article reviews the therapeutic effects of alicaforsen for the management of UC and refractory pouchitis, with special emphasis on the mechanism of action of this therapeutic agent and the clinical studies asserting its effectiveness.