Training in basic gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures: a European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) and European Society of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Nurses and Associates (ESGENA) Position Statement.

This ESGE Position Statement provides structured and evidence-based guidance on the essential requirements and processes involved in training in basic gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopic procedures. The document outlines definitions; competencies required, and means to their assessment and maintenance; the structure and requirements of training programs; patient safety and medicolegal issues. 1: ESGE and ESGENA define basic endoscopic procedures as those procedures that are commonly indicated, generally accessible, and expected to be mastered (technically and cognitively) by the end of any core training program in gastrointestinal endoscopy. 2: ESGE and ESGENA consider the following as basic endoscopic procedures: diagnostic upper and lower GI endoscopy, as well as a limited range of interventions such as: tissue acquisition via cold biopsy forceps, polypectomy for lesions ≤ 10 mm, hemostasis techniques, enteral feeding tube placement, foreign body retrieval, dilation of simple esophageal strictures, and India ink tattooing of lesion location. 3: ESGE and ESGENA recommend that training in GI endoscopy should be subject to stringent formal requirements that ensure all ESGE key performance indicators (KPIs) are met. 4: Training in basic endoscopic procedures is a complex process and includes the development and acquisition of cognitive, technical/motor, and integrative skills. Therefore, ESGE and ESGENA recommend the use of validated tools to track the development of skills and assess competence. 5: ESGE and ESGENA recommend incorporating a multimodal approach to evaluating competence in basic GI endoscopic procedures, including procedural thresholds and the measurement and documentation of established ESGE KPIs. 7: ESGE and ESGENA recommend the continuous monitoring of ESGE KPIs during GI endoscopy training to ensure the trainee's maintenance of competence. 9: ESGE and ESGENA recommend that GI endoscopy training units fulfil the ESGE KPIs for endoscopy units and, furthermore, be capable of providing the dedicated personnel, infrastructure, and sufficient case volume required for successful training within a structured training program. 10: ESGE and ESGENA recommend that trainers in basic GI endoscopic procedures should be endoscopists with formal educational training in the teaching of endoscopy, which allows them to successfully and safely teach trainees.

Machine learning models to predict success of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty using total and excess weight loss percent achievement: a multicentre study.

BACKGROUND: The large amount of heterogeneous data collected in surgical/endoscopic practice calls for data-driven approaches as machine learning (ML) models. The aim of this study was to develop ML models to predict endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) efficacy at 12 months defined by total weight loss (TWL) % and excess weight loss (EWL) % achievement. Multicentre data were used to enhance generalizability: evaluate consistency among different center of ESG practice and assess reproducibility of the models and possible clinical application. Models were designed to be dynamic and integrate follow-up clinical data into more accurate predictions, possibly assisting management and decision-making. METHODS: ML models were developed using data of 404 ESG procedures performed at 12 centers across Europe. Collected data included clinical and demographic variables at the time of ESG and at follow-up. Multicentre/external and single center/internal and temporal validation were performed. Training and evaluation of the models were performed on Python's scikit-learn library. Performance of models was quantified as receiver operator curve (ROC-AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and calibration plots. RESULTS: Multicenter external validation: ML models using preoperative data show poor performance. Best performances were reached by linear regression (LR) and support vector machine models for TWL% and EWL%, respectively, (ROC-AUC: TWL% 0.87, EWL% 0.86) with the addition of 6-month follow-up data. Single-center internal validation: Preoperative data only ML models show suboptimal performance. Early, i.e., 3-month follow-up data addition lead to ROC-AUC of 0.79 (random forest classifiers model) and 0.81 (LR models) for TWL% and EWL% achievement prediction, respectively. Single-center temporal validation shows similar results. CONCLUSIONS: Although preoperative data only may not be sufficient for accurate postoperative predictions, the ability of ML models to adapt and evolve with the patients changes could assist in providing an effective and personalized postoperative care. ML models predictive capacity improvement with follow-up data is encouraging and may become a valuable support in patient management and decision-making.

Structured feedback and operative video debriefing with critical view of safety annotation in training of laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized controlled study.

BACKGROUND: The learning curve in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is lengthened compared to open surgery. It has been reported that structured feedback and training in teams of two trainees improves MIS training and MIS performance. Annotation of surgical images and videos may prove beneficial for surgical training. This study investigated whether structured feedback and video debriefing, including annotation of critical view of safety (CVS), have beneficial learning effects in a predefined, multi-modal MIS training curriculum in teams of two trainees. METHODS: This randomized-controlled single-center study included medical students without MIS experience (n = 80). The participants first completed a standardized and structured multi-modal MIS training curriculum. They were then randomly divided into two groups (n = 40 each), and four laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LCs) were performed on ex-vivo porcine livers each. Students in the intervention group received structured feedback after each LC, consisting of LC performance evaluations through tutor-trainee joint video debriefing and CVS video annotation. Performance was evaluated using global and LC-specific Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills (OSATS) and Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills (GOALS) scores. RESULTS: The participants in the intervention group had higher global and LC-specific OSATS as well as global and LC-specific GOALS scores than the participants in the control group (25.5 ± 7.3 vs. 23.4 ± 5.1, p = 0.003; 47.6 ± 12.9 vs. 36 ± 12.8, p < 0.001; 17.5 ± 4.4 vs. 16 ± 3.8, p < 0.001; 6.6 ± 2.3 vs. 5.9 ± 2.1, p = 0.005). The intervention group achieved CVS more often than the control group (1. LC: 20 vs. 10 participants, p = 0.037, 2. LC: 24 vs. 8, p = 0.001, 3. LC: 31 vs. 8, p < 0.001, 4. LC: 31 vs. 10, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Structured feedback and video debriefing with CVS annotation improves CVS achievement and ex-vivo porcine LC training performance based on OSATS and GOALS scores.

An international Delphi consensus for surgical quality assessment of lymphadenectomy and anastomosis in minimally invasive total gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive total gastrectomy (MITG) is a mainstay for curative treatment of patients with gastric cancer. To define and standardize optimal surgical techniques and further improve clinical outcomes through the enhanced MITG surgical quality, there must be consensus on the key technical steps of lymphadenectomy and anastomosis creation, which is currently lacking. This study aimed to determine an expert consensus from an international panel regarding the technical aspects of the performance of MITG for oncological indications using the Delphi method. METHODS: A 100-point scoping survey was created based on the deconstruction of MITG into its key technical steps through local and international expert opinion and literature evidence. An international expert panel comprising upper gastrointestinal and general surgeons participated in multiple rounds of a Delphi consensus. The panelists voted on the issues concerning importance, difficulty, or agreement using an online questionnaire. A priori consensus standard was set at > 80% for agreement to a statement. Internal consistency and reliability were evaluated using Cronbach's α. RESULTS: Thirty expert upper gastrointestinal and general surgeons participated in three online Delphi rounds, generating a final consensus of 41 statements regarding MITG for gastric cancer. The consensus was gained from 22, 12, and 7 questions from Delphi rounds 1, 2, and 3, which were rephrased into the 41 statetments respectively. For lymphadenectomy and aspects of anastomosis creation, Cronbach's α for round 1 was 0.896 and 0.886, and for round 2 was 0.848 and 0.779, regarding difficulty or importance. CONCLUSIONS: The Delphi consensus defined 41 steps as crucial for performing a high-quality MITG for oncological indications based on the standards of an international panel. The results of this consensus provide a platform for creating and validating surgical quality assessment tools designed to improve clinical outcomes and standardize surgical quality in MITG.

Safety and efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation for pancreatic insulinoma: A single-center experience.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Insulinomas are rare, functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (pNEN), whose gold standard therapy is surgical resection. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) is a recent technique that has emerged as a minimally invasive therapeutic option for patients with pancreatic lesions not eligible for surgery. In this study, we aimed to describe a series of patients with unresectable pancreatic insulinoma treated with EUS-RFA. METHODS: This is a single-center, retrospective study including all consecutive patients with functioning pancreatic insulinoma undergoing EUS-RFA for surgical unfitness or surgery refusal, between March 2017 and September 2021. Technical success (i.e., complete mass ablation), adverse event rate and severity, clinical and radiologic outcomes (i.e., symptom remission with a normal concentration of blood glucose, and the presence of intralesional necrosis), and post-procedural follow-up were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 10 patients (mean age: 67.1 ± 10.1years; F:M 7:3) were included. The mean size of insulinoma was 11.9 ± 3.3 mm. Technical success and clinical remission were achieved in 100% of patients. Only one (10%) patient was successfully treated with two RFA sessions. Two procedure-related early adverse events occurred, including two (20%) cases of mild abdominal pain. No major complications were observed. The complete radiologic response within 3 months after EUS-RFA was observed in all patients (100%). After a median follow-up of 19.5 (range12-59) months, symptom remission and persistent euglycemia were assessed in all the patients. CONCLUSIONS: Data from this case series suggest that EUS-RFA is a feasible and safe therapeutic approach for pancreatic insulinomas in patients unwilling or unable to undergo surgery with medium-term efficacy.

Technical skill assessment in minimally invasive surgery using artificial intelligence: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Technical skill assessment in surgery relies on expert opinion. Therefore, it is time-consuming, costly, and often lacks objectivity. Analysis of intraoperative data by artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential for automated technical skill assessment. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the performance, external validity, and generalizability of AI models for technical skill assessment in minimally invasive surgery. METHODS: A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore was performed to identify original articles reporting the use of AI in the assessment of technical skill in minimally invasive surgery. Risk of bias (RoB) and quality of the included studies were analyzed according to Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies criteria and the modified Joanna Briggs Institute checklists, respectively. Findings were reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. RESULTS: In total, 1958 articles were identified, 50 articles met eligibility criteria and were analyzed. Motion data extracted from surgical videos (n = 25) or kinematic data from robotic systems or sensors (n = 22) were the most frequent input data for AI. Most studies used deep learning (n = 34) and predicted technical skills using an ordinal assessment scale (n = 36) with good accuracies in simulated settings. However, all proposed models were in development stage, only 4 studies were externally validated and 8 showed a low RoB. CONCLUSION: AI showed good performance in technical skill assessment in minimally invasive surgery. However, models often lacked external validity and generalizability. Therefore, models should be benchmarked using predefined performance metrics and tested in clinical implementation studies.

SAGES video acquisition framework-analysis of available OR recording technologies by the SAGES AI task force.

BACKGROUND: Surgical video recording provides the opportunity to acquire intraoperative data that can subsequently be used for a variety of quality improvement, research, and educational applications. Various recording devices are available for standard operating room camera systems. Some allow for collateral data acquisition including activities of the OR staff, kinematic measurements (motion of surgical instruments), and recording of the endoscopic video streams. Additional analysis through computer vision (CV), which allows software to understand and perform predictive tasks on images, can allow for automatic phase segmentation, instrument tracking, and derivative performance-geared metrics. With this survey, we summarize available surgical video acquisition technologies and associated performance analysis platforms. METHODS: In an effort promoted by the SAGES Artificial Intelligence Task Force, we surveyed the available video recording technology companies. Of thirteen companies approached, nine were interviewed, each over an hour-long video conference. A standard set of 17 questions was administered. Questions spanned from data acquisition capacity, quality, and synchronization of video with other data, availability of analytic tools, privacy, and access. RESULTS: Most platforms (89%) store video in full-HD (1080p) resolution at a frame rate of 30 fps. Most (67%) of available platforms store data in a Cloud-based databank as opposed to institutional hard drives. CV powered analysis is featured in some platforms: phase segmentation in 44% platforms, out of body blurring or tool tracking in 33%, and suture time in 11%. Kinematic data are provided by 22% and perfusion imaging in one device. CONCLUSION: Video acquisition platforms on the market allow for in depth performance analysis through manual and automated review. Most of these devices will be integrated in upcoming robotic surgical platforms. Platform analytic supplementation, including CV, may allow for more refined performance analysis to surgeons and trainees. Most current AI features are related to phase segmentation, instrument tracking, and video blurring.

Artificial Intelligence for Surgical Safety: Automatic Assessment of the Critical View of Safety in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Using Deep Learning.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a deep learning model to automatically segment hepatocystic anatomy and assess the criteria defining the critical view of safety (CVS) in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). BACKGROUND: Poor implementation and subjective interpretation of CVS contributes to the stable rates of bile duct injuries in LC. As CVS is assessed visually, this task can be automated by using computer vision, an area of artificial intelligence aimed at interpreting images. METHODS: Still images from LC videos were annotated with CVS criteria and hepatocystic anatomy segmentation. A deep neural network comprising a segmentation model to highlight hepatocystic anatomy and a classification model to predict CVS criteria achievement was trained and tested using 5-fold cross validation. Intersection over union, average precision, and balanced accuracy were computed to evaluate the model performance versus the annotated ground truth. RESULTS: A total of 2854 images from 201 LC videos were annotated and 402 images were further segmented. Mean intersection over union for segmentation was 66.6%. The model assessed the achievement of CVS criteria with a mean average precision and balanced accuracy of 71.9% and 71.4%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Deep learning algorithms can be trained to reliably segment hepatocystic anatomy and assess CVS criteria in still laparoscopic images. Surgical-technical partnerships should be encouraged to develop and evaluate deep learning models to improve surgical safety.

Robotic endoscopic cooperative surgery for colorectal tumors: a feasibility study (with video).

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative colorectal surgery (LECS-CR) is a promising technique to achieve full-thickness resection of colorectal tumors. This approach has shown good rates of complete resection and low local recurrence, especially for large laterally spreading tumors, which are difficult to remove via endoscopy alone. However, it is often difficult to prevent peritoneal leakage of intestinal content, causing infections and risks of cancer spreading. It was hypothesized that a robotic assistance could make the procedure easier and decrease intestinal fluid leakage. This preclinical trial aims to assess the feasibility of robotic and endoscopic cooperative colorectal surgery (RECS-CR). METHODS: LECS-CR was performed in five female pigs and RECS-CR was also performed in five female pigs. With the animal under general anesthesia, pseudotumors were created on the colonic mucosa at a distance comprised between 20 and 25 cm from the anal verge. Desired resection margins were marked endoscopically and two stay sutures were placed either robotically or laparoscopically. A mucosa-to-submucosa dissection was performed endoscopically along the markings. Complete full-thickness dissection was performed cooperatively. The specimen was withdrawn endoscopically. The colon was closed using a self-fixating running suture. Abdominal contaminations, operating times, complications, and complete resections were evaluated and compared between LECS-CR and RECS-CR. RESULTS: The mean number of colonies of Escherichia coli in the RECS group was significantly lower than in the LECS group (36.7 ± 30.2 vs. 142.2 ± 78.4, respectively, p < 0.05). Operating time was comparable (118 ± 11.2 vs. 98.6 ± 25.7, respectively, p = 0.22). Two stenoses occurred in the LECS group. R0 resection was achieved in all cases. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that RECS-CR is feasible and has the potential to reduce intestinal content leakage, potentially preventing postoperative infections.

Multicentric validation of EndoDigest: a computer vision platform for video documentation of the critical view of safety in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

BACKGROUND: A computer vision (CV) platform named EndoDigest was recently developed to facilitate the use of surgical videos. Specifically, EndoDigest automatically provides short video clips to effectively document the critical view of safety (CVS) in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). The aim of the present study is to validate EndoDigest on a multicentric dataset of LC videos. METHODS: LC videos from 4 centers were manually annotated with the time of the cystic duct division and an assessment of CVS criteria. Incomplete recordings, bailout procedures and procedures with an intraoperative cholangiogram were excluded. EndoDigest leveraged predictions of deep learning models for workflow analysis in a rule-based inference system designed to estimate the time of the cystic duct division. Performance was assessed by computing the error in estimating the manually annotated time of the cystic duct division. To provide concise video documentation of CVS, EndoDigest extracted video clips showing the 2 min preceding and the 30 s following the predicted cystic duct division. The relevance of the documentation was evaluated by assessing CVS in automatically extracted 2.5-min-long video clips. RESULTS: 144 of the 174 LC videos from 4 centers were analyzed. EndoDigest located the time of the cystic duct division with a mean error of 124.0 ± 270.6 s despite the use of fluorescent cholangiography in 27 procedures and great variations in surgical workflows across centers. The surgical evaluation found that 108 (75.0%) of the automatically extracted short video clips documented CVS effectively. CONCLUSIONS: EndoDigest was robust enough to reliably locate the time of the cystic duct division and efficiently video document CVS despite the highly variable workflows. Training specifically on data from each center could improve results; however, this multicentric validation shows the potential for clinical translation of this surgical data science tool to efficiently document surgical safety.

A Computer Vision Platform to Automatically Locate Critical Events in Surgical Videos: Documenting Safety in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to develop a computer vision platform to automatically locate critical events in surgical videos and provide short video clips documenting the critical view of safety (CVS) in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). BACKGROUND: Intraoperative events are typically documented through operator-dictated reports that do not always translate the operative reality. Surgical videos provide complete information on surgical procedures, but the burden associated with storing and manually analyzing full-length videos has so far limited their effective use. METHODS: A computer vision platform named EndoDigest was developed and used to analyze LC videos. The mean absolute error (MAE) of the platform in automatically locating the manually annotated time of the cystic duct division in full-length videos was assessed. The relevance of the automatically extracted short video clips was evaluated by calculating the percentage of video clips in which the CVS was assessable by surgeons. RESULTS: A total of 155 LC videos were analyzed: 55 of these videos were used to develop EndoDigest, whereas the remaining 100 were used to test it. The time of the cystic duct division was automatically located with a MAE of 62.8 ±â€Š130.4 seconds (1.95% of full-length video duration). CVS was assessable in 91% of the 2.5 minutes long video clips automatically extracted from the considered test procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Deep learning models for workflow analysis can be used to reliably locate critical events in surgical videos and document CVS in LC. Further studies are needed to assess the clinical impact of surgical data science solutions for safer laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Surgical data science and artificial intelligence for surgical education.

Surgical data science (SDS) aims to improve the quality of interventional healthcare and its value through the capture, organization, analysis, and modeling of procedural data. As data capture has increased and artificial intelligence (AI) has advanced, SDS can help to unlock augmented and automated coaching, feedback, assessment, and decision support in surgery. We review major concepts in SDS and AI as applied to surgical education and surgical oncology.

A curriculum to democratize and standardize flexible endoscopy fundamental knowledge and skills: a critical review of the first 5 years of a surgical endoscopy university diploma.

BACKGROUND: As flexible endoscopy offers many advantages to patients, access to training should be aggressively encouraged. In 2014, the IRCAD-IHU-Strasbourg launched a year-long university diploma using advanced education methods to offer surgeons and gastroenterologists high-quality, personalized training in flexible endoscopy. This paper describes and critically reviews the first 5 years of the University Diploma in Surgical Endoscopy (UDSE). METHODS: The UDSE aims to progressively transmit theoretical knowledge, clinical judgment, and practical skills on basic and advanced flexible endoscopy. The 300-h year-long curriculum is composed of 100 h of online lectures with tests, 150 h of clinical rotations and 50 h of hands-on sessions. The hands-on training is delivered through validated mechanical simulators, virtual reality simulators, and specifically designed ex vivo and in vivo animal models. Participants' demographics, training, and clinical experience were recorded. Trainees' evaluations of each online lecture, hands-on training, and clinical rotations were assessed using a Likert scale from 1 (not satisfactory) to 5 (outstanding). Trainees' skill progression was evaluated using the Global Assessment of Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Skills (GAGES) proficiency test. Finally, clinical uptake was surveyed. RESULTS: 162 (79.01% males) trainees from 38 countries enrolled and successfully completed the first 5 courses. The vast majority of the trainees were surgeons and 19.14% were gastroenterologist. Sixty-nine (42.59%) participants were residents and 97 (56.79%) had no prior experience in flexible endoscopy. The online lectures, on-site sessions, and clinical rotations were highly appreciated receiving an overall average score of 4.33/5, 4.56/5, 4.43/5, respectively. Trainees' endoscopic skills improved significantly (16.68 vs. 20.53 GAGES scores; p = 0.016). At an average of 18.83 months following the course, 31 alumni (77.50% of repliers) started to use a flexible endoscope in their practice. CONCLUSIONS: Over its 5-year evolution, the UDSE has proven to be a valid means to ease access to the fundamental knowledge, practical skills, and clinical judgment necessary to achieve proficiency in surgical endoscopy.

Feasibility and safety of a new endoscopic synthetic sealant nebulizing device over gastric endoscopic submucosal dissections.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) is the treatment of choice of superficial neoplastic gastrointestinal lesions. Delayed bleedings and perforations are still current clinical concerns. Glubran 2 is a synthetic cyanoacrylate-derived glue nowadays already widely used as an effective tissue adhesive. ENDONEB is a novel device thought for enabling the sealant nebulization over a specific targeted surface during laparotomy, laparoscopy, and thoracotomy. The aim of this single-center preclinical animal trial is to evaluate the feasibility and safety of the same nebulization technique during ESD in the perspective that further clinical studies would demonstrate the efficacy of Glubran 2 in preventing post-ESD adverse events. METHODS: Four live Landrace pigs were enrolled. Two approximately 30-mm-wide gastric ESDs were performed in each pig (experimental ESD and control ESD). About 0.5 mL of Glubran 2 was nebulized on the experimental ESDs. Subjective perception of the feasibility of the Glubran 2 nebulization was reported. Pigs were clinically monitored at follow-up and upper GI endoscopy was performed at 24 and 48 hours, when animals were euthanized to perform a macroscopic and histological analysis of the specimens. RESULTS: No peri-procedural adverse events were reported. Glubran 2 nebulization over experimental ESDs showed to be technically easy and time-effective. Clinical and endoscopic animal monitoring was negative at follow-up. At 24 hours, the Glubran 2 film was clearly visible on the eschar of the ESDs and signs of initial hydrolysis were discernable at 48 hours. No signs of peritoneal reaction were observed at the macroscopic examination. Equal transmural inflammation was described at the histological examination of both types of ESDs. CONCLUSIONS: Safety and feasibility profiles of Glubran 2 nebulizing ENDONEB device over ESD surfaces were excellent. Further evidences and human trials are needed to investigate its effectiveness in ESDs' eschars sealing and, thus, in delayed micro-perforations and bleedings prevention and treatment.

Development and prospective validation of a scoring system for the Basic Endoscopic Skills Training (BEST) box.

AIMS: The increased use of endoscopy as a minimally invasive therapeutic technique has created a great demand for endoscopic training. The Basic Endoscopic Skills Training (BEST) box provides a low-cost solution by adapting the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) box for flexible endoscopic simulation. The BEST box consists of six endoscopic tasks with a 5-min time limit per task. This study aims to develop a scoring system for objective evaluation of user performance. METHODS: A total of 165 participants were tested on the BEST box. Participants were divided into two groups: retrospective analysis (n = 100) and prospective analysis (n = 65). From the retrospective group, 55 individuals were also scored on the Global Assessment of Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Skills-Upper Endoscopy (GAGES-UE). Linear regression between user performance on BEST box and GAGES-UE was performed to develop the scoring system. Receiver Operating Characteristic curve was used to determine a threshold score to help users appreciate their endoscopic expertise. Prospective scoring of 65 individuals was then performed using the formula developed (20 experts and 45 trainees). RESULTS: The minimum and maximum possible scores are 30 and 110, respectively. Retrospective analysis showed that the scoring system was able to distinguish between experts and trainees (p < 0.001), correlated with GAGES-UE (p < 0.001), and had a reliability constant of r = 0.765 (p < 0.001). On prospective testing using the scoring system the expert group received a final average score of 92, whereas the average score for the trainee group was 61 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The developed BEST box scoring system correlates with the experience level of the test taker as well as with the GAGES-UE scoring system. The results of this study add further evidence to the validity of the BEST box as an effective, low-cost endoscopic simulator with the scores used by trainees to track their performance level overtime.

From high volume to "zero" proctology: Italian experience in the COVID era.

PURPOSE: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic hit Italy early and strongly, challenging the whole health care system. Proctological patients and surgeons are experiencing a previously unseen change in care with unknown repercussion. Here we discuss the proctological experience of 4 Italian hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Following remote brainstorming, the authors summarised their experience in managing proctological patients during the COVID-19 pandemics and put forward some practical observations to further investigate. RESULTS: The 4 hospitals shifted from a high-volume proctological activity to almost "zero" visits and surgery. Every patient accessing the hospital must respect a specific COVID-19 protocol. Proctological patients can be stratified based on presentation and management considerations into (1) neoplastic patients, the only allowed to be surgically treated, (2) the ones requiring urgent care, operated only in highly selected cases and (3) the stable, already known patients, managed remotely. Changes in the clinical management of the proctological disease are presented together with some considerations to be explored. CONCLUSIONS: In the absence of scientific evidence, these practical considerations may be valuable to proctological surgeons starting to face the COVID-19 pandemics. Beside the more clinical considerations, this crisis produced unexpected consequences such as an improvement of the therapeutic alliance and a shift towards telemedicine that may be worth exploring also in the post-COVID-19 era.

Does endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty stand the test of time? Objective assessment of endoscopic ESG appearance and its relation to weight loss in a large group of consecutive patients.

INTRODUCTION: Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a promising bariatric treatment. Gastric volume reduction and delayed gastric emptying are the probable mechanisms driving weight loss. However, there are concerns regarding the overtime ESG effectiveness. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between endoscopic gastroplasty integrity overtime and weight loss. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients undergoing follow-up endoscopy (6 and 12 months) after ESG were included. ESG were classified in three groups according to endoscopic appearance: open when all the stiches were loose; partially intact if at least one stitch was loose; intact if all the stitches were present and tight. Initial BMI, excess weight loss (%EWL) and total weight loss (%TWL) at 6 and 12 months were assessed against gastroplasty endoscopic appearance. RESULTS: From October 2016 to April 2019, 133 patients underwent ESG, 87 (65.4%) had a follow-up EGD at 6 months. ESG was open in six cases (6.9%), partially intact in 38 (43.7%) and intact in 43 (49.4%). The overall %EWL and %TWL was 34.5 ± 19.8 and 13.2 ± 7.4, respectively; 25.7 ± 26.9 and 11.8 ± 11.8 for the open group, 30.8 ± 20.1 and 12.4 ± 7.8 for the partially intact group; 39.1 ± 19.7 and 14.0 ± 6.4 for the intact gastroplasty. Forty-one patients underwent a 12 months endoscopy: 10 (24.4%) had an intact ESG, 24 (58.5%) had a partially intact gastroplasty, and in 7 (17.0%) cases the sutures were lost. Overall %EWL and %TWL at 12 months was 34.3 ± 21.9 and 13.1 ± 8.1: 19.3 ± 13.4 and 8.9 ± 6.1 for the open group; 36.0 ± 24.2 and 13.1 ± 8.9 for the partially intact group; 40.3 ± 17.3 and 17.2 ± 5.4 for the intact group. ESG appearance correlated with preoperative BMI (r 0.34; p 0.001) and %EWL at 6 months (r 0.22; p 0.035) and 12 months (r 0.29; p 0.065). CONCLUSION: This preliminary work shows that weight loss correlates with ESG endoscopic appearance over time. Initial BMI predicts endoscopic suture duration over time. Larger studies and longer follow-up are needed.

HYPerspectral Enhanced Reality (HYPER): a physiology-based surgical guidance tool.

BACKGROUND: HSI is an optical technology allowing for a real-time, contrast-free snapshot of physiological tissue properties, including oxygenation. Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) has the potential to quantify the gastrointestinal perfusion intraoperatively. This experimental study evaluates the accuracy of HSI, in order to quantify bowel perfusion, and to obtain a superposition of the hyperspectral information onto real-time images. METHODS: In 6 pigs, 4 ischemic bowel loops were created (A, B, C, D) and imaged at set time points (from 5 to 360 min). A commercially available HSI system provided pseudo-color maps of the perfusion status (StO2, Near-InfraRed perfusion) and the tissue water index. An ad hoc software was developed to superimpose HSI information onto the live video, creating the HYPerspectral-based Enhanced Reality (HYPER). Seven regions of interest (ROIs) were identified in each bowel loop according to StO2 ranges, i.e., vascular (VASC proximal and distal), marginal vascular (MV proximal and distal), marginal ischemic (MI proximal and distal), and ischemic (ISCH). Local capillary lactates (LCL), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and histopathology were measured at the ROIs. A machine-learning-based prediction algorithm of LCL, based on the HSI-StO2%, was trained in the 6 pigs and tested on 5 additional animals. RESULTS: HSI parameters (StO2 and NIR) were congruent with LCL levels, ROS production, and histopathology damage scores at the ROIs discriminated by HYPER. The global mean error of LCL prediction was 1.18 ± 1.35 mmol/L. For StO2 values > 30%, the mean error was 0.3 ± 0.33. CONCLUSIONS: HYPER imaging could precisely quantify the overtime perfusion changes in this bowel ischemia model.

Three-dimensional imaging improved the laparoscopic performance of inexperienced operators: a prospective trial.

BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional (3-D) high-definition (HD) stereovision and two-dimensional (2-D) ultra-high-resolution (4K) monitors have recently become available for laparoscopic surgery. The aim of this study was to compare laparoscopic performance between inexperienced participants using 3-D/HD and 2-D/4K monitors and those using conventional 2-D/HD monitors. METHODS: The study enrolled 66 participants with no previous surgical experience or medical training. They were randomly divided into three equal groups, each using a different type of monitor (2-D/HD, 2-D/4K, or 3-D/HD), to perform three phantom tasks using a laparoscopic simulator: Task 1, touching markers on a non-flat surface; Task 2, bimanual peg transfer; and Task 3, passing a straight rod through a loop. Each task was performed three times. The performance scores (operative time, path length of the forceps, and technical errors) were compared for each monitor type and by age group (< 30 vs. > 30 years). RESULTS: For all three tasks, scores using the 3-D monitor were significantly better than those using either 2-D monitor, with no difference between the 2-D/4K and 2-D/HD monitors. Using the 2-D monitors, the performance of Task 3 by the participants > 30 years was worse than that by the younger participants; however, there was no difference between the age groups when using the 3-D monitor. CONCLUSION: Participants with no prior experience using a 3-D monitor showed better laparoscopic performance than those using 2-D monitors, even with 4K resolution. This improvement was more marked in older participants, suggesting a greater loss of depth perception in a 2-D environment.

Formalizing video documentation of the Critical View of Safety in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a step towards artificial intelligence assistance to improve surgical safety.

BACKGROUND: In laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), achievement of the Critical View of Safety (CVS) is commonly advocated to prevent bile duct injuries (BDI). However, BDI rates remain stable, probably due to inconsistent application or a poor understanding of CVS as well as unreliable reporting. Objective video reporting could serve for quality auditing and help generate consistent datasets for deep learning models aimed at intraoperative assistance. In this study, we develop and test a method to report CVS using videos. METHOD: LC videos performed at our institution were retrieved and the video segments starting 60 s prior to the division of cystic structures were edited. Two independent reviewers assessed CVS using an adaptation of the doublet view 6-point scale and a novel binary method in which each criterion is considered either achieved or not. Feasibility to assess CVS in the edited video clips and inter-rater agreements were evaluated. RESULTS: CVS was attempted in 78 out of the 100 LC videos retrieved. CVS was assessable in 100% of the 60-s video clips. After mediation, CVS was achieved in 32/78(41.03%). Kappa scores of inter-rater agreements using the doublet view versus the binary assessment were as follows: 0.54 versus 0.75 for CVS achievement, 0.45 versus 0.62 for the dissection of the hepatocystic triangle, 0.36 versus 0.77 for the exposure of the lower part of the cystic plate, and 0.48 versus 0.79 for the 2 structures connected to the gallbladder. CONCLUSIONS: The present study is the first to formalize a reproducible method for objective video reporting of CVS in LC. Minute-long video clips provide information on CVS and binary assessment yields a higher inter-rater agreement than previously used methods. These results offer an easy-to-implement strategy for objective video reporting of CVS, which could be used for quality auditing, scientific communication, and development of deep learning models for intraoperative guidance.