Lumen-apposing metal stents for the treatment of pancreatic and peripancreatic fluid collections and bleeding risk: a propensity matched study.

INTRODUCTION: Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage of symptomatic pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) using the Hot-Axios device has recently been associated with a significant risk of bleeding. This adverse event (AE) seems to occur less frequently with the use of a different device, the Spaxus stent. The aim of the current study was to compare the rates of bleeding between the two stents. METHODS: Patients admitted for treatment of PFCs by EUS plus lumen-apposing metal stent in 18 endoscopy referral centers between 10 July 2019 and 28 February 2022 were identified and their outcomes compared using a propensity-matching analysis. RESULTS: 363 patients were evaluated. After a 1-to-1 propensity score match, 264 patients were selected (132 per group). The technical and clinical success rates were comparable between the two groups. Significantly more bleeding requiring transfusion and/or intervention occurred in the Hot-Axios group than in the Spaxus group (6.8% vs. 1.5%; P = 0.03); stent type was a significant predictor of bleeding in both univariate and multivariate regression analyses (P = 0.03 and 0.04, respectively). Bleeding necessitating arterial embolization did not however differ significantly between the two groups (3.0% vs. 0%; P = 0.12). In addition, the Hot-Axios was associated with a significantly higher rate of overall AEs compared with the Spaxus stent (9.8% vs. 3.0%; P = 0.04). CONCLUSION: Our study showed that, in patients with PFCs, bleeding requiring transfusion and/or intervention occurred significantly more frequently with use of the Hot-Axios stent than with the Spaxus stent, although this was not the case for bleeding requiring embolization.

Cold Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (c-EMR) of Nonpedunculated Colorectal Polyps ≥20 mm: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: There is increasing evidence that cold endoscopic mucosal resection (c-EMR) can effectively treat large colorectal polyps. We aim to appraise the current literature and evaluate outcomes following c-EMR for nonpedunculated colonic polyps ≥20 mm. METHODS: Major databases were searched. Primary outcomes included recurrence rate and adverse events. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. RESULTS: Nine articles were included in the final analysis, which included 817 patients and 1077 colorectal polyps. Average polyp size was 28.8 (±5.1) mm. The pooled recurrence rate of polyps of any histology at 4 to 6 months was 21.0% (95% CI: 9.0%-32.0%, P <0.001, I2 =97.3, P <0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that recurrence was 10% for proximal lesions (95% CI: 0.0%-20.0%, P =0.054, I2 =93.7%, P =0.054) and 9% for distal lesions (95% CI: 2.0%-21.0%, P =0.114, I2 =95.8%, P =0.114). Furthermore, subgroup analysis showed that recurrence was 12% for adenoma (95% CI: 4.0%-19.0%, P =0.003, I2 =98.0%, P =0.003), and 3% for sessile serrated polyps (95% CI: 1.0%-5.0%, P =0.002, I2 =34.4%, P =0.002). Post-polypectomy bleeding occurred in 1% (n=8/817) of patients, whereas abdominal pain occurred in 0.2% (n=2/817) of patients. CONCLUSIONS: C-EMR for nonpedunculated colorectal polyps ≥20 mm shows an excellent safety profile with a very low rate of delayed bleeding as well as significantly less recurrence for sessile serrated polyps than adenomas.

Advanced trainee perceptions of disposable duodenoscopes and disposable endcaps: results of a nationwide survey.

INTRODUCTION: Disposable duodenoscopes and duodenoscopes with disposable endcaps are being used in clinical practice to reduce or eliminate the risk of transmitting infections. The study aim was to assess perceptions and experiences regarding the use of these duodenoscopes among advanced endoscopy fellows in a nationally representative sample. METHODS: A 17-item electronic survey was sent to 74 advanced endoscopy training programs. The survey was completed by 50 participants and their responses were included for analysis. RESULTS: Most participants were from academic training programs (82.7%) and identified as being in their 7th year of post graduate training (92%; PGY-7). Participants performed an average of 414 ERCPs. 29% reported difficulty with cannulation using disposable duodenoscopes versus 15.7% with duodenoscopes with disposable endcaps (vs. standard duodenoscope). 96% of trainees perceived disposable duodenoscopes as not cost effective and 92% stated they would not use this device during independent practice. 100% of trainees stated that they would use duodenoscopes with disposable endcaps during independent practice. For their most challenging cases, 90% of trainees preferred using standard reprocessable duodenoscopes while no trainee indicated they would prefer using a disposable duodenoscope in this scenario. 82% of participants stated that disposable duodenoscopes and disposable endcaps should be used exclusively or preferentially for high-risk patients citing cost, functionality, and concerns regarding environmental impact. DISCUSSION: Advanced endoscopy fellows perceive disposable duodenoscopes as impacting technical maneuverability. Concerns about functionality, cost effectiveness and environmental impact are barriers to adoption.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage as a first approach for jaundice palliation in unresectable malignant distal biliary obstruction: Prospective study.

OBJECTIVES: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) represents the gold standard for jaundice palliation in patients with distal malignant biliary obstruction (DMBO). Biliary drainage using electrocautery lumen apposing metal stent (EC-LAMS) is currently a well-established procedure when ERCP fails. In a palliative setting the endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) could represent an easy and valid option. We performed a prospective study with a new EC-LAMS with the primary aim to assess the clinical success rate of EUS-GBD as a first-line approach to the palliation of DMBO. METHODS: In all, 37 consecutive patients undergoing EUS-GBD with a new EC-LAMS were prospectively enrolled. Clinical success was defined as bilirubin level decrease >15% within 24 h and >50% within 14 days after EC-LAMS placement. RESULTS: The mean age was 73.5 ± 10.8 years; there were 17 male patients (45.9%). EC-LAMS placement was technically feasible in all patients (100%) and the clinical success rate was 100%. Four patients (10.8%) experienced adverse events, one bleeding, one food impaction, and two cystic duct obstructions because of disease progression. No stent-related deaths were observed. The mean hospitalization was 7.7 ± 3.4 days. Median overall survival was 4 months (95% confidence interval 1-8). CONCLUSION: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage with the new EC-LAMS is a valid option in palliative endoscopic biliary drainage as a first-step approach in low survival patients with malignant jaundice unfit for surgery. A smaller diameter EC-LAMS should be preferred, particularly if the drainage is performed through the stomach, to avoid potential food impaction, which could result in stent dysfunction.

Early (<4 weeks) versus standard (≥4 weeks) endoscopic drainage of pancreatic walled-off fluid collections: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Previous studies have demonstrated that the ideal time for drainage of walled-off pancreatic fluid collections is 4 to 6 weeks after their development. However, some pancreatic collections, notably infected pancreatic fluid collections, require earlier drainage. Nevertheless, the optimal timing of the first intervention is unclear, and consensus data are sparse. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of EUS-guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections <4 weeks after development compared with ≥4 weeks after development. METHODS: Search strategies were developed for PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases from inception. Outcomes of interest were technical success, defined as successful endoscopic placement of a lumen-apposing metal stent; clinical success, defined as a reduction in cystic collection size; and procedure-related adverse events. A random-effects model was used for analysis, and results are expressed as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: Six studies (630 patients) were included in our final analysis, in which 182 patients (28.9%) were enrolled in the early drainage cohort and 448 patients (71.1%) in the standard drainage cohort. The mean fluid collection size was 143.4 ± 18.8 mm for the early cohort versus 128 ± 19.7 mm for the standard cohort. Overall, technical success was equal in both cohorts. Clinical success did not favor either standard drainage or early drainage (OR, .39; 95% CI, .13-1.22; P = .11). No statistically significant differences were found in overall adverse events (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, .63-4.45; P = .31) or mortality (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, .29-4.48; P = .85). Hospital stay was longer for patients undergoing early drainage compared with standard drainage (23.7 vs 16.0 days, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Both early (<4 weeks) and standard (≥4 weeks) drainage of walled-off pancreatic fluid collections offer similar technical and clinical outcomes. Patients requiring endoscopic drainage should not be delayed for 4 weeks.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy with or without macroscopic on-site evaluation: a randomized controlled noninferiority trial.

BACKGROUND : The advantage of using the macroscopic on-site evaluation (MOSE) technique during endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) performed with 22G Franseen needles has not been investigated. We aimed to compare EUS-FNB with MOSE vs. EUS-FNB performed with three needle passes. METHODS : This randomized trial involved 10 Italian referral centers. Consecutive patients referred for EUS-FNB of pancreatic or nonpancreatic solid lesions were included in the study and randomized to the two groups. MOSE was performed by gross visualization of the collected material by the endoscopists and considered adequate when a white/yellowish aggregate core longer than 10 mm was retrieved. The primary outcome was diagnostic accuracy. Secondary outcomes were specimen adequacy, number of needle passes, and safety. RESULTS : 370 patients with 234 pancreatic lesions (63.2 %) and 136 nonpancreatic lesions (36.8 %) were randomized (190 EUS-FNB with MOSE and 180 with standard EUS-FNB). No statistically significant differences were found between EUS-FNB with MOSE and conventional EUS-FNB in terms of diagnostic accuracy (90.0 % [95 %CI 84.8 %-93.9 %] vs. 87.8 % [95 %CI 82.1 %-92.2 %]; P = 0.49), sample adequacy (93.1 % [95 %CI 88.6 %-96.3 %] vs. 95.5 % [95 %CI 91.4 %-98 %]; P = 0.31), and rate of adverse events (2.6 % vs. 1.1 %; P = 0.28). The median number of passes was significantly lower in the EUS-FNB with MOSE group (1 vs. 3; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS : The accuracy of EUS-FNB with MOSE is noninferior to that of EUS-FNB with three needle passes. MOSE reliably assesses sample adequacy and reduces the number of needle passes required to obtain the diagnosis with a 22G Franseen needle.

Influence of Frailty in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography for Biliary Stone Disease: A Nationwide Study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Pancreaticobiliary diseases are common in the elderly. To this end, frailty represents a state of vulnerability that should be considered when assessing the risks and benefits of therapeutic endoscopic procedures. We aim to determine the rate of readmissions and clinical outcomes using the validated Hospital Frailty Risk Score in patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). METHODS: Using the National Readmissions Database, we identified patients with an admission diagnosis of cholangitis with obstructive stone from 2016 to 2019. Patients were determined to be of low frailty risk with a score of < 5, while patients of medium to high frailty risk had a score of > 5. RESULTS: During the study period, 5751 patients were identified with acute cholangitis with obstructing stone. Mean age of index admissions was 69.4 years and 51.8% were female. From the total cohort, 5119 (89.2%) patients underwent therapeutic ERCP, 38.0% (n = 1947) of whom were regarded as frail (risk score > 5). Following ERCP, frail patients had a less but statistically insignificant readmission rate compared to non-frail patients (2.76% vs 4.05%, p = 0.450). However, compared to non-frail patients, frail patients experienced higher post-ERCP complications (6.20% vs 14.63%, p < 0.001). Frail patients were more likely to have longer lengths of stay, higher hospital cost, and mortality risk. CONCLUSION: ERCP is not a risk factor for readmission among frail patients. However, frail patients are at higher risk for procedure-related complications, healthcare utilization, and mortality.

Analysis of reported adverse events related to single-use duodenoscopes and duodenoscopes with detachable endcaps.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Single-use duodenoscopes and duodenoscopes with detachable/disposable caps emerged in the market to mitigate the risk of ERCP-related infections. We aimed to investigate adverse events associated with these devices occurring after U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. METHODS: We analyzed postmarketing surveillance data from the FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database from July 2018 to June 2021. RESULTS: One hundred eighty-five reports comprising 201 device issues and 118 patient adverse events were identified from July 2018 through June 2021. Most device issues related to the single-use duodenoscope were due to optical problems (7 reports). Other reported device issues included difficulty in advancing the duodenoscope (2 reports), fluid leak (2 reports), and use-of-device problems (2 reports). Among the duodenoscopes with detachable/disposable caps, most device issues were related to bacterial contamination (53 reports), followed by issues with device use (31 reports), detachment/separation of the device (25 reports), and crack/dent in device material (16 reports). Overall, the most frequently reported patient adverse events were tissue injury (63 reports), perforation (8 reports), and bleeding (7 reports). Ninety reports of microbial contamination of duodenoscopes with detachable/disposable caps were identified, of which Pseudomonas aeruginosa was most common. CONCLUSIONS: Findings from the MAUDE database highlight patient and device adverse events that endoscopists should be aware of in using single-use duodenoscopes and duodenoscopes with detachable/disposable caps. Whereas these devices mitigate the risk of transmitting infection, they are associated with additional device-associated adverse events.

Analysis of Reported Adverse Events With Colonic Stents: An FDA MAUDE Database Study.

BACKGROUND: Colonic stents are indicated for preoperative and palliative decompression of large bowel obstruction. We aim to investigate post Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval outcomes associated with colonic stents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed postmarketing surveillance data from the FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database from January 2011 to December 2020. RESULTS: During the study period, 691 device issues and 742 patient complications were identified. The number of adverse events reported to the FDA mildly increased from 6.40% in 2011 to 7.4% in 2020. Most device complications were due to a positioning problem (n=201, 29%), followed by device break (n=60, 8.6%), delamination (n=41, 6.3%), and migration or expulsion device (n=38, 5.55%). A number of reports described an unclassified adverse event without specifying device or operator problem (n=141, 20.3%). The most reported patient adverse events were perforation (n=150, 20.1%), death (n=47, 6.3%), abdominal pain/discomfort (n=27, 3.6%), and peritonitis (n=24, 3.2%). CONCLUSION: Findings from the MAUDE database highlight rare but important patient and device complications which endoscopists and referring providers should be aware of before consideration for colonic stent placement.

Endoscopic Management of Ampullary Adenomas in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Syndrome: A Systematic Review with Pooled Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic papillectomy is a viable therapy in ampullary lesions. Prior studies have reported on outcomes of sporadic ampullary lesions, and only small cohort studies have reported outcomes associated with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndrome. AIMS: We performed a systematic review with pooled analysis to assess the safety and efficacy of EP for treating ampullary adenomas in FAP. METHODS: We performed a comprehensive literature search of major databases from inception to May 2020. Studies that included patients with endoscopically resected ampullary lesions and FAP were eligible. The rate of technical success, en bloc resection, piecemeal resection, recurrence, and adverse events was pooled by means of a random-effects model to obtain a proportion with a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: Six studies, including a total of 99 patients, were included in our final analysis. Patient age ranged from 28 to 91 years. Pooled technical success was 90.3% (CI 76.9-96.3%, I2 = 31%). Rate of en bloc resection was 60.6% (CI 47.9-72.0%, I2 = 0%). Recurrence rate was 25.4% (5.7-65.9%, I2 = 82%). The post-procedural pancreatitis rate was 14.7% of which 68% (51 of 75) utilized prophylactic pancreatic stenting. Other adverse events included bleeding (9.2%) and perforation (4%). CONCLUSION: Endoscopic papillectomy offers high technical success but remains challenging in patients with FAP, particularly due to high recurrence rates.

Early- and late-onset pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A population-based comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Pancreatic cancer is projected to become the second leading cause of cancer related death in the US. We aim to investigate the demographics, clinical outcomes and survival outcomes of patients diagnosed with early-onset (<40 years) and late-onset (>40 years) pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAC). METHODS: Data on PAC between 1975 and 2016 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Registry. RESULTS: Within the study period, 136,100 patients were identified which included 1181 patients with early-onset PAC and 134,919 patients with late-onset PAC. Both cohorts tend to present with distant metastasis (70.3% vs 57.9%). Both groups also showed an exponential rise in incidence (early-onset 3.69% annual change vs late-onset 6.25% annual change). When stratified by anatomical location, there was a trend of increasing cancer in the head of the pancreas for patients <40 years (3.63% annual change). While late PAC showed increasing cancer in all anatomical locations, the largest increase was observed in the tail of the pancreas (8.62% annual change). Overall, there was a mild difference in survival for early- and late-onset PAC (7 months vs 6 months, respectively, log rank p = 0.004). Both age groups showed the worse prognosis when cancer occurred in the tail of the pancreas (6 months vs 4 months, respectively). On cox proportion analysis, patients with late-onset PAC had twice the risk of mortality compared to early-onset PAC (HR 2.06, CI: 1.788-2.370, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed that both early- and late-onset PAC are increasing and while prognosis remains poor. Tumor anatomy showed a growing incidence of early-onset PAC in the head of the pancreas while late-onset PAC showed a rising incidence in the body and tail of the pancreas.

Incidence Rates, Treatment, and Survival of Rectal Cancer Among Young Patients: A Nationwide Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of colorectal cancer is increasing among young adults in the United States. We aim to investigate the incidence rate, the effect of multimodal therapy, and survival outcomes of rectal cancer in patients under 45 years of age. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Data on young-onset (under 45 y) rectal cancer between 2000 and 2016 was extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Registry (SEER). RESULTS: A total of 10,375 patients with young-onset rectal cancer were identified where 54.7% were male. The median age at diagnosis was 40±5.7 years. The overall age-adjusted incidence of rectal cancer between 2000 and 2016 was 1.24 per 100,000 per year. Incidence increased with age, with the highest incidence occurring in the 40- to 44-year age group. Over the 16-year study period, rectal cancer increased by ∼2.29%. Most tumors on presentation were moderately differentiated (30.8%) while the most common stage at presentation was stage 4 (48.3%). One- and 5-year cause-specific survival for rectal cancer was 93% and 72%, respectively. According to Cox proportional hazard models, chemotherapy was associated with increased mortality in patients with localized cancer [hazard ratio (HR)=2.88, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.04-4.08, P<0.001], did not significantly improve mortality outcomes in patients with regional cancer (HR=0.89, 95% CI: 0.70-1.04, P=0.116), but reduced mortality in patients with distant cancer (HR=0.62, 95% CI: 0.56-0.70, P<0.001), though this effect was largely seen in patients 35 years and older. Surgery was associated with improved survival across all cancer stages. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of regional and distant rectal cancer is increasing in young patients. While patient age is an important prognostic indicator of survival, chemotherapy does not appear to improve survival in younger patients with localized and regional disease.

Influence of the Elipse Intragastric Balloon on Obesity and Metabolic Profile: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Intragastric balloons (IGBs) have been used to bridge the obesity treatment gap with the benefits of being minimally invasive but still required endoscopy. The Elipse IGB is a swallowable balloon that is spontaneously excreted at ∼16 weeks. However, studies are limited by small sample sizes. The authors aim to assess clinically relevant endpoints, namely weight loss outcomes, metabolic profile, balloon tolerability, and adverse events. METHODS: A literature search was performed from several databases from inception to July 2020. The pooled means and proportions of our data were analyzed using a random effects model. RESULTS: Seven studies involving 2152 patients met our eligibility criteria and were included. The mean baseline body mass index ranged from 32.1 to 38.6. The pooled mean difference (MD) in body mass index was 0.88 [confidence interval (CI): 0.58-1.18, I2=98%]. Total body weight loss was 12% (CI: 10.1-14.3, I2=94%) and excess body weight loss was 49.1% (CI: 30.6-67.5, I2=97%). The MD in waist circumference was 0.89 (CI: 0.72-1.05, I2=53%). MD in triglyceride level was 0.66 (CI: 0.21-1.1, I2=96%). Pooled early deflation rate was 1.8% (CI: 0.6-5.1, I2=74%). Our study also showed that the Elipse balloon was associated with less adverse events when compared with other IGBs. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis demonstrates that the Elipse intragastric balloon is a safe, effective, and tolerable device for weight loss and obesity with a minimal side effect profile.

The Efficacy and Safety of Hemospray for the Management of Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

GOALS/BACKGROUND: Hemospray is a new hemostatic powder recently approved for endoscopic hemostasis in gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Data are limited in terms of its clinical outcomes, and its role in the treatment algorithm of GI bleeds. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to study the clinical performance of Hemospray in the management of GI bleeding. STUDY: We searched multiple databases from inception through March 2019 to identify studies that reported on the clinical outcomes of Hemospray in GI bleeding. The primary outcome was pooled rates of clinical success after the application of Hemospray in GI bleeding. The secondary outcomes were pooled rebleeding rates and adverse events after use of Hemospray. RESULTS: A total of 19 studies, 814 patients, of which 212 patients were treated with Hemospray as monotherapy, and 602 patients were treated with Hemospray with conventional hemostatic techniques. Overall pooled clinical success after the application of Hemospray was 92% [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 87%-96%; I2=70.4%]. Overall pooled early rebleeding rates after application of Hemospray was 20% (95% CI, 16%-26%; I2=54%). Overall pooled delayed rebleeding rates after the application of Hemospray was 23% (95% CI, 16%-31%; I2=34.9%). There was no statistical difference in clinical success (RR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.96-1.08; P=0.34) and early rebleeding (RR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.75-1.07; P=0.214) in studies that compared the use of Hemospray as monotherapy versus combination therapy with conventional therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Hemospray is highly effective in achieving immediate hemostasis in gastrointestinal bleeding. However, due to significantly high rebleeding rates, Hemospray is not suited for definitive long-term therapy.

Gender and racial disparities in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality: a national cancer registry study.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of CRC is higher in minority racial and ethnic groups. However, studies assessing trends among sex and racial groups on the incidence and mortality of CRC are lacking. We aim to investigate disparities in CRC by reviewing a large national cancer registry. METHODS: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Registry (SEER) of individuals aged 45-79 years from 2000-2017. RESULTS: During the study period, the incidence of CRC decreased for both males and females, respectively (APC -2.14 vs -1.81). Among all racial groups, African American showed the least decline in incidence of CRC. African American females showed the highest risk for CRC (IRR 1.34; 95% CI 1.32-1.36, p< 0.001) compared to other females or males from different racial groups. Subgroup analysis using Kaplan-Meier estimations showed that African American females had the poorest 5-year survival rate (56%) compared to other female racial groups. Among males, American Indian/Alaska Natives had the poorest 5-year survival (54%) compared to male of other racial groups. CONCLUSION: Overall, the incidence of colorectal cancer is declining. However, the incidence of CRC remains highest in African Americans females who are also burden with poor survival rates.

Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Population-Based Observational Study.

BACKGROUND: In the USA, fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FLC) accounts for 1-2% of all cases of hepatocellular carcinoma. FLC remains poorly understood. AIM: We aim to investigate the incidence, demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of patients with FLC. METHODS: Data on FLC between 2000 and 2016 were extracted from the SEER database and analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 300 patients with FLC were identified where 126 were male. Median age at diagnosis was 27 ± 22 years. The overall age-adjusted incidence of FLC between 2000 and 2016 was 0.02 per 100,000 per year. A bimodal distribution was observed where the highest incidences occurred between 15-19 years and 70-74 years. Most tumors on presentation were moderately differentiated (20.7%), while the most common stage at presentation was stage 1 (21.7%) followed by stages 3 and 4 (20.0% and 20.3%, respectively); 50.3% of these tumors were surgically resected, while 8.0% received radiation and 45.3% received chemotherapy. One- and 5-year cause-specific survival for FLC was 72.0% and 32.9%, respectively, with a median survival of 32.9 months. HCC had a median survival time of 11.7 months. Patients who were not treated with surgical intervention had about 3 times increased risk for death (HR 2.8, 95% CI 1.68-4.72, P = 0.000). Radiation and chemotherapy did not significantly affect outcomes. CONCLUSION: FLC presents with a bimodal distribution in both early and elderly individuals. Compared to HCC, FLC has a higher recurrence rate but better survival outcome. Surgical intervention is superior to chemotherapy and radiation.

Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) with Colonoscopy Is Superior to Enema and Nasogastric Tube While Comparable to Capsule for the Treatment of Recurrent Clostridioides difficile Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Several routes of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) administration are available for treating recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections (CDI), the most recent of which are capsules. AIM: To assess the efficacy of colonoscopy, capsule, enema, and nasogastric tube (NGT) FMT for the treatment of recurrent CDI. METHODS: We reported clinical outcomes of colonoscopy, capsule, enema, and NGT FMT for the treatment of recurrent CDI according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. During January 2000 to January 2018, three databases were searched: PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL. Primary outcome was overall cure rate which was assessed using a random effects model; secondary outcomes included adverse effects as well as subgroup analyses comparing donor relationship, sample preparation, and study design. RESULTS: Twenty-six studies (1309 patients) were included in the study. FMT was administered using colonoscopy in 16 studies (483 patients), NGT in five studies (149 patients), enema in four studies (360 patients), and capsules in four studies (301 patients). The random effects of pooled FMT cure rates were colonoscopy 94.8% (CI 92.4-96.8%; I2 15.6%), capsule 92.1% (CI 88.6-95.0%; I2 7.1%), enema 87.2% (CI 83.4-90.5%; I2 0%), and NGT/NDT 78.1% (CI 71.6-84.1%; I2 0%). On subgroup analysis of colonoscopy FMT, sample preparation methods had comparable cure rates: fresh 94.9% compared to 94.5%. Similarly, cure rates were unaffected by donor relationship: mixed 94.5% compared to unrelated donor 95.7%. CONCLUSION: CDI cure rates with FMT performed with colonoscopy are superior to enema and NGT FMT, while those with FMT with colonoscopy and capsule are comparable.

Anterior versus posterior approach in peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM): a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is increasingly being used as the endoscopic treatment option for achalasia. Data are limited as to the comparative efficacy of anterior vs. posterior myotomy. METHODS: We searched multiple databases from inception to August 2019 to identify studies reporting on POEM. We selected studies that reported on the outcomes of POEM, along with information on myotomy approach. We performed a comparative analysis of clinical success, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and adverse events with anterior and posterior myotomy in POEM by meta-analysis. RESULTS: 1247 patients from 18 studies were analyzed: 623 patients (11 cohorts) were treated via anterior myotomy and 624 patients (12 cohorts) via posterior myotomy. The pooled rate for clinical success gave an odds ratio (OR) of 1.02 (95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.52 - 2.0; I 2 0; P = 0.9); for GERD by esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) was OR 1.02 (95 %CI 0.62 - 1.68; I 2 0; P = 0.9), and for GERD by pH was OR 0.98 (95 %CI 0.59 - 1.63; I 2 34; P = 0.9). The individual pooled rates of clinical success at 12 months and > 12 months, GERD (by symptoms, EGD, pH), and adverse events (mild, moderate, severe) were comparable. The pooled total procedure time with anterior myotomy was 82.7 minutes (95 %CI 69.0 - 96.4; I 2 98) and with posterior myotomy was 62.1 minutes (95 %CI 48.5 - 75.7; I 2 90). CONCLUSION: Anterior and posterior myotomy in POEM seem comparable to each other in terms of clinical success, GERD, and adverse events. The total procedure time with posterior myotomy seems to be shorter than with anterior myotomy.

Clostridioides difficile infection in US hospitals: a national inpatient sample study.

BACKGROUND: Hypervirulent strains of Clostridioides difficile have altered the landscape of hospital and community outbreaks. We aim to examine and compare spatiotemporal trends, incidence, hospital teaching status, mortality, and cost associated with hospital-acquired Clostridioides difficile infection (HCDI) and community-acquired Clostridioides difficile infection (CCDI). METHODS: Retrospective cohorts were studied using data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2006 to 2015. RESULTS: A total of 76,124 cases of HCDI and 190,641 cases of CCDI were identified within the study period. The incidence of HCDI decreased from 8555 in 2006 to 7191 in 2015. Mortality also decreased during the same period (5.9% in 2006 to 1.4% 2015, p < 0.0001). Conversely, CCDI cases increased from 13,823 in 2006 to 20,637 in 2015. CCDI mortality decreased during the same period (4.3% in 2006 to 1.9% 2015, p < 0.0001). Rural hospital centers experienced the sharpest decline in HCDI mortality compared to urban and urban teaching centers (3.8%, p < 0.0001 vs 2.8%, p < 0.0001 vs 2.1%, p < 0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression indicated that increasing age (p = 0.0001), increasing hospital length of stay (p = 0.0001), and Medicare insurance (p = 0.002) were significant predictors of mortality for CDI mortality. Geospatial mapping of CCDI and HCDI revealed that the Eastern and Southern US experienced the largest incidence of CDI over 10 years. CONCLUSION: The incidence of HCDI has decreased in the past decade while the incidence of CCDI hospitalization is sharply on the rise. While hospital length of stay and mortality has decreased over time, the cost of treating CDI remains high.

Combined Hepatocellular Cholangiocarcinoma: A Population-Based Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVES: Combined hepatocellular cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) is a rare form of primary liver cancer with features of hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence, demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment, and survival of patients with CHC. METHODS: Data on CHC between 2004 and 2014 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Registry and analyzed. RESULTS: Five hundred twenty-nine patients with CHC were identified; 367 were male. Median age at diagnosis was 62.5 ± 12 years. The overall incidence of CHC between 2004 and 2014 was 0.05 per 100,000 per year. Incidence increased with age, with the highest incidence in men occurring between 60 and 64 years and 75-79 years for women. Women had a higher incidence of CHC compared to men (0.08 vs 0.03 per 100,000 per year). Most tumors were poorly differentiated (30.8%) while the most common stage at presentation was stage 4 (26.8%). 39.5% of these tumors were resected while 6.8% received radiation and 34% received chemotherapy. One- and 5-year cause-specific survival for CHC was 41.9% and 17.7%, respectively, with a median survival of 8 months. Worse outcomes were noted among patients with tumor stage 3 (hazard ratio [HR] 2.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.44-2.87, P = 0.000), stage 4 (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.06-2.75, P = 0.027), those not treated with surgery (HR 4.94, 95% CI 3.64-6.68, P = 0.000), those who did not receive radiation (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.08-2.70, P = 0.021), those who did not receive chemotherapy (HR 1.54, 95% CI 1.20-1.99, P = 0.001), and those with increasing tumor size on chemotherapy (HR 1.00, 95% CI 1.00-1.00, P = 0.013). DISCUSSION: CHC is the combined presentation of 2 malignancies. Incidence appears to be increasing and is associated with age and male gender. While surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are associated with improved outcomes, patients who did not undergo surgery are at highest risk for death.