Enhancing the diagnostic yield of esophageal manometry using distension-contraction plots of peristalsis and artificial intelligence.

Our prior study reveals that the distension-contraction profiles using high-resolution manometry impedance recordings can distinguish patients with dysphagia symptom but normal esophageal function testing ("functional dysphagia") from control subjects. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic value of the recording protocol used in our prior studies (10-mL swallows with subjects in the Trendelenburg position) against the standard clinical protocol (5-mL swallows with subjects in the supine position). We used advanced machine learning techniques and robust metrics for classification purposes. Studies were performed on 30 healthy subjects and 30 patients with functional dysphagia. A custom-built software was used to extract the relevant distension-contraction features of esophageal peristalsis. Ensemble methods, i.e., gradient boost, support vector machines (SVMs), and logit boost, were used as the primary machine learning algorithms. Although the individual contraction features were marginally different between the two groups, the distension features of peristalsis were significantly different. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve values for the standard recording protocol and the distension features ranged from 0.74 to 0.82; they were significantly better for the protocol used in our prior studies, ranging from 0.81 to 0.91. The ROC curve values using three machine learning algorithms were far superior for the distension than the contraction features of esophageal peristalsis, revealing a value of 0.95 for the SVM algorithm. Current patient classification for esophageal motility disorders, based on the contraction phase of peristalsis, ignores a large number of patients who have an abnormality in the distension phase of peristalsis. Distension-contraction plots should be the standard for assessing esophageal peristalsis in clinical practice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our findings underscore the superiority of distension features over contraction metrics in diagnosing esophageal dysfunctions. By leveraging state-of-the-art machine learning techniques, our study highlights the diagnostic potential of distension-contraction plots of peristalsis. Implementation of these plots could significantly enhance the accuracy of identifying patients with esophageal motor disorders, advocating for their adoption as the standard in clinical practice.

The effects of simulated gastroesophageal reflux on infant pig oropharyngeal feeding physiology.

The neural connectivity among the oral cavity, pharynx, and esophagus is a critical component of infant feeding physiology. Central integration of oral and pharyngeal afferents alters motor outputs to structures that power swallowing, but the potential effects of esophageal afferents on preesophageal feeding physiology are unclear. These effects may explain the prevalence of oropharyngeal dysphagia in infants suffering from gastroesophageal reflux (GER), though the mechanism underlying this relationship remains unknown. Here we use the validated infant pig model to assess the impacts of simulated GER on preesophageal feeding parameters. We used high-speed videofluoroscopy and electromyography to record bottle-feeding before and following the infusion of a capsaicin-containing solution into the lower esophagus. Sucking parameters were minimally affected by capsaicin exposure, such that genioglossus activity was unchanged and tongue kinematics were largely unaffected. Aspects of the pharyngeal swallow were altered with simulated GER, including increased thyrohyoid muscle activity, increased excursions of the hyoid and thyroid per swallow, decreased swallow frequency, and increased bolus sizes. These results suggest that esophageal afferents can elicit changes in pharyngeal swallowing. In addition, decreased swallowing frequency may be the mechanism by which esophageal pathologies induce oropharyngeal dysphagia. Although recent work indicates that oral or pharyngeal capsaicin may improve dysphagia symptoms, the decreased performance following esophageal capsaicin exposure highlights the importance of designing sensory interventions based upon neurophysiology and the mechanisms underlying disordered feeding. This mechanistic approach requires comprehensive data collection across the entirety of the feeding process, which can be achieved using models such as the infant pig.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Simulated gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in an infant pig model resulted in significant changes in pharyngeal swallowing, which suggests that esophageal afferents are centrally integrated to alter motor outputs to the pharynx. In addition, decreased swallow frequency and increased bolus sizes may be underlying mechanisms by which esophageal pathologies induce oropharyngeal dysphagia. The infant pig model used here allows for a mechanistic approach, which can facilitate the design of intervention strategies based on neurophysiology.

Identification of Achalasia Within Absent Contractility Phenotypes on High-Resolution Manometry: Prevalence, Predictive Factors, and Treatment Outcome.

INTRODUCTION: Absent contractility on high-resolution manometry (HRM) defines severe hypomotility but needs distinction from achalasia. We retrospectively identified achalasia within absent contractility using HRM provocative maneuvers, barium esophagography, and functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP). METHODS: Adult patients with absent contractility on HRM during the 4-year study period were eligible for inclusion. Inadequate studies, achalasia after therapy, or prior foregut surgery were exclusions. Upright integrated relaxation pressure (IRP) >12 mm Hg, panesophageal pressurization, and/or elevated IRP on multiple rapid swallows and rapid drink challenge (RDC) were considered abnormal. Esophageal barium retention and abnormal esophagogastric junction distensibility index (<2.0 mm 2 /mm Hg) on FLIP defined achalasia. Clinical, endoscopic, and motor characteristics of patients with achalasia were compared with absent contractility without obstruction. RESULTS: Of 164 patients, 20 (12.2%) had achalasia (17.9% of 112 patients with adjunctive testing), while 92 did not, and 52 did not undergo adjunctive tests. Achalasia was diagnosed regardless of IRP value, but the median supine IRP was higher (odds ratio 1.196, 95% confidence interval 1.041-1.375, P = 0.012). Patients with achalasia were more likely to present with dysphagia (80.0% vs 35.9%, P < 0.001), with obstructive features on HRM maneuvers (83.3% vs 48.9%, P = 0.039), but lower likelihood of GERD evidence (20.0% vs 47.3%, P = 0.027) or large hiatus hernia (15.0% vs 43.8%, P = 0.002). On multivariable analysis, dysphagia presentation ( P = 0.006) and pressurization on RDC ( P = 0.027) predicted achalasia, while reflux and presurgical evaluations and lack of RDC obstruction predicted absent contractility without obstruction. DISCUSSION: Despite HRM diagnosis of absent contractility, achalasia is identified in more than 1 in 10 patients regardless of IRP value.

Esophageal Remodeling Correlates With Eating Behaviors in Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

INTRODUCTION: There are limited data characterizing eating habits among pediatric patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). We compared eating behaviors in pediatric patients with EoE with healthy controls and assessed the degree of correlation with symptomatology, endoscopic and histologic findings, and esophageal distensibility. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, observational study where subjects consumed 4 food textures (puree, soft solid, chewable, and hard solid) and were scored for eating behaviors including number of chews per bite, sips of fluid per food, and consumption time. Symptomatic, endoscopic, histologic, and esophageal distensibility data were collected for case subjects. RESULTS: Twenty-seven case subjects and 25 healthy controls were enrolled in our study (mean age 11.0 years, 63.5% male). Compared with healthy controls, pediatric patients with EoE demonstrated more chews per bite with soft solid (13.6 vs 9.1, P = 0.031), chewable (14.7 vs 10.7, P = 0.047), and hard solid foods (19.0 vs 12.8, P = 0.037). Patients with EoE also demonstrated increased consumption time with soft solid (94.7 vs 58.3 seconds, P = 0.002), chewable (90.0 vs 65.1 seconds, P = 0.005), and hard solid foods (114.1 vs 76.4 seconds, P = 0.034) when compared with healthy controls. Subgroup analysis based on disease status showed no statistically significant differences in eating behaviors between active and inactive EoE. Total endoscopic reference score positively correlated with consumption time ( r = 0.53, P = 0.008) and number of chews ( r = 0.45, P = 0.027) for chewable foods and with number of chews ( r = 0.44, P = 0.043) for hard solid foods. Increased consumption time correlated with increased eosinophil count ( r = 0.42, P = 0.050) and decreased esophageal distensibility ( r = -0.82, P < 0.0001). DISCUSSION: Altered eating behaviors including increased chewing and increased consumption time can be seen in pediatric patients with EoE, can persist despite histologic remission, and may be driven by changes in esophageal distensibility.

Esophageal remodeling in eosinophilic esophagitis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a Th2 immune/antigen-mediated disorder characterized by esophageal dysfunction and eosinophilic inflammation. Worsening dysphagia and food impactions are significant complications associated with esophageal remodeling and fibrostenotic disease. This review highlights the most recent research findings pertaining to mechanisms of sub-epithelial fibrosis in EoE, current diagnostic tools, and therapeutic approaches. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies leveraging publicly available single cell sequencing databases and comparative proteomics have furthered our understanding of the mechanisms mediating fibrosis. Fibroblast crosstalk with the extracellular matrix and with epithelial, endothelial, and T cells have been implicated, with the likely existence of multiple fibroblast sub-types. Accurate diagnosis of remodeling with biopsies remains a challenge due to inadequate depth of sampling. Web-based tools incorporating epithelial findings show promise in predicting subepithelial fibrosis. Impedance planimetry with esophageal distensibility measurements are increasingly utilized tools to assess fibrostenotic severity. Immunostaining and luminal captured proteins associated with remodeling show promise as potential molecular markers of fibrosis. Anti-inflammatory therapy may improve esophageal fibrosis and distensibility, although specific fibrosis-targeted therapy is lacking. SUMMARY: Recent studies highlight novel mechanisms of fibrosis in EoE. Improved understanding of these mechanisms may lead to novel diagnostic strategies and therapies, and thereby inform treatment decisions.

Gastric Pressure Monitoring Unveils Abnormal Patient-Ventilator Interaction Related to Active Expiration: A Retrospective Observational Study.

BACKGROUND: Patient-ventilator dyssynchrony is frequently observed during assisted mechanical ventilation. However, the effects of expiratory muscle contraction on patient-ventilator interaction are underexplored. The authors hypothesized that active expiration would affect patient-ventilator interaction and they tested their hypothesis in a mixed cohort of invasively ventilated patients with spontaneous breathing activity. METHODS: This is a retrospective observational study involving patients on assisted mechanical ventilation who had their esophageal pressure (Peso) and gastric pressure monitored for clinical purposes. Active expiration was defined as gastric pressure rise (ΔPgas) greater than or equal to 1.0 cm H2O during expiratory flow without a corresponding change in diaphragmatic pressure. Waveforms of Peso, gastric pressure, diaphragmatic pressure, flow, and airway pressure (Paw) were analyzed to identify and characterize abnormal patient-ventilator interaction. RESULTS: 76 patients were identified with Peso and gastric pressure recordings, of whom 58 demonstrated active expiration with a median ΔPgas of 3.4 cm H2O (interquartile range = 2.4 to 5.3) observed in this subgroup. Among these 58 patients, 23 presented the following events associated with expiratory muscle activity: (1) distortions in Paw and flow that resembled ineffective efforts, (2) distortions similar to autotriggering, (3) multiple triggering, (4) prolonged ventilatory cycles with biphasic inspiratory flow, with a median percentage (interquartile range) increase in mechanical inflation time and tidal volume of 54% (44 to 70%) and 25% (8 to 35%), respectively and (5) breathing exclusively by expiratory muscle relaxation. Gastric pressure monitoring was required to identify the association of active expiration with these events. Respiratory drive, assessed by the rate of inspiratory Peso decrease, was significantly higher in patients with active expiration (median [interquartile range] dPeso/dt: 12.7 [9.0 to 18.5] vs 9.2 [6.8 to 14.2] cmH2O/sec; P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Active expiration can impair patient-ventilator interaction in critically ill patients. Without documenting gastric pressure, abnormal patient-ventilator interaction associated with expiratory muscle contraction may be mistakenly attributed to a mismatch between the patient's inspiratory effort and mechanical inflation. This misinterpretation could potentially influence decisions regarding clinical management.

The independent prognostic value of perioperative hepatic venous pressure gradient measurements in patients with portal hypertension who underwent laparoscopic splenectomy plus esophagogastric devascularization.

BACKGROUND: Hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) is considered the gold standard for diagnosing portal hypertension (PHT). Laparoscopic splenectomy plus esophagogastric devascularization (LSED) is an important surgery for treating PHT. However, the variation trend of HVPG after surgery is not clear. Moreover, whether HVPG can provide precise prognostic information for patients undergoing surgery remains to be further studied. This study aimed to investigate the independent prognostic value of HVPG in LSED. METHODS: From January 2016 to March 2023, 135 patients with PHT underwent LSED at our hospital were retrospectively evaluated. We analyzed the correlations between clinical indicators and history of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Among them, 57 patients remeasured postoperative HVPG. We further investigated the postoperative alterations of HVPG and correlative factors, as well as the relationship between the HVPG and postoperative UGIB. RESULTS: In this study, we found that 94 patients with preoperative UGIB (16.27 ± 5.73 mmHg) had a higher baseline HVPG than the other 41 patients without (14.02 ± 5.90 mmHg) (p = 0.04). The mean postoperative HVPG significantly decreased (-3.57 ± 8.09 mmHg, p = 0.001) compared to the baseline, and 66% of patients (38/57) experienced a decreased HVPG-response after surgery. The baseline HVPG and preoperative CTP class B were associated with the decreased HVPG-response (p<0.05). Additionally, patients with postoperative HVPG decreased>20% from baseline exhibited better recurrent hemorrhage-free survival rates than those without (log-rank, p = 0.013). CONCLUSION: We found that LSED led to a significantly decreased HVPG, and patients with postoperative HVPG decreased >20% obtained better UGIB-free survival benefits than those without.

Phenotypes based on respiratory drive and effort to identify the risk factors when P0.1 fails to estimate ∆PES in ventilated children.

BACKGROUND: Monitoring respiratory effort and drive during mechanical ventilation is needed to deliver lung and diaphragm protection. Esophageal pressure (∆PES) is the gold standard measure of respiratory effort but is not routinely available. Airway occlusion pressure in the first 100 ms of the breath (P0.1) is a readily available surrogate for both respiratory effort and drive but is only modestly correlated with ∆PES in children. We sought to identify risk factors for P0.1 over or underestimating ∆PES in ventilated children. METHODS: Secondary analysis of physiological data from children and young adults enrolled in a randomized controlled trial testing lung and diaphragm protective ventilation in pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (PARDS) (NCT03266016). ∆PES (∆PES-REAL), P0.1 and predicted ∆PES (∆PES-PRED = 5.91*P0.1) were measured daily to identify phenotypes based upon the level of respiratory effort and drive: one passive (no spontaneous breathing), three where ∆PES-REAL and ∆PES-PRED were aligned (low, normal, and high effort and drive), two where ∆PES-REAL and ∆PES-PRED were mismatched (high underestimated effort, and overestimated effort). Logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with each mismatch phenotype (High underestimated effort, or overestimated effort) as compared to all other spontaneous breathing phenotypes. RESULTS: We analyzed 953 patient days (222 patients). ∆PES-REAL and ∆PES-PRED were aligned in 536 (77%) of the active patient days. High underestimated effort (n = 119 (12%)) was associated with higher airway resistance (adjusted OR 5.62 (95%CI 2.58, 12.26) per log unit increase, p < 0.001), higher tidal volume (adjusted OR 1.53 (95%CI 1.04, 2.24) per cubic unit increase, p = 0.03), higher opioid use (adjusted OR 2.4 (95%CI 1.12, 5.13, p = 0.024), and lower set ventilator rate (adjusted OR 0.96 (95%CI 0.93, 0.99), p = 0.005). Overestimated effort was rare (n = 37 (4%)) and associated with higher alveolar dead space (adjusted OR 1.05 (95%CI 1.01, 1.09), p = 0.007) and lower respiratory resistance (adjusted OR 0.32 (95%CI 0.13, 0.81), p = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with PARDS, P0.1 commonly underestimated high respiratory effort particularly with high airway resistance, high tidal volume, and high doses of opioids. Future studies are needed to investigate the impact of measures of respiratory effort, drive, and the presence of a mismatch phenotype on clinical outcome. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03266016; August 23, 2017.

The role of high-resolution impedance manometry to identify rumination syndrome in children with unexplained foregut symptoms.

OBJECTIVES: Diagnosis of rumination syndrome (RS) relies on Rome IV criteria. Oesophageal high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) can objectively demonstrate the episodes of rumination, but its role in the diagnostic pathway is not yet established. We aimed to demonstrate the clinical contribution of this tool for the timely diagnosis of RS and diagnostic work-up of children with unexplained foregut symptoms deemed to be due to other conditions. METHODS: HRIMs performed between 2012 and 2021 were searched to retrieve all diagnoses of RS. Medical records were reviewed for clinical data. RESULTS: Out of 461 HRIMs performed, 76 children had manometric diagnosis of RS (35 male, median age: 13 years). Of them, 47% were not clinically suspected as the symptoms did not fulfil clinical criteria for RS. The indications for HRIM in these cases were investigation of unexplained foregut symptoms (37%), suspected refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (8%) and dysphagia (2%). Among all HRIMs performed for investigations of unexplained foregut symptoms (n = 80), 35% demonstrated rumination episodes. CONCLUSION: Identification of characteristic patterns of rumination on HRIM in children with unexplained foregut symptoms enables the immediate diagnosis of RS. Thus, in situations of diagnostic uncertainty, the use of HRIM at early stages of the diagnostic pathway would reduce unnecessary investigations and treatments.

Ineffective esophageal motility: Characterization and outcomes across pediatric neurogastroenterology and motility centers in the United States.

OBJECTIVES: Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) on high-resolution manometry (HRM) is not consistently associated with specific clinical syndromes or outcomes. We evaluated the prevalence, clinical features, management, and outcomes of pediatric IEM patients across the United States. METHODS: Clinical and manometric characteristics of children undergoing esophageal HRM during 2021-2022 were collected from 12 pediatric motility centers. Clinical presentation, test results, management strategies, and outcomes were compared between children with IEM and normal HRM. RESULTS: Of 236 children (median age 15 years, 63.6% female, 79.2% Caucasian), 62 (23.6%) patients had IEM, and 174 (73.7%) patients had normal HRM, with similar demographics, medical history, clinical presentation, and median symptom duration. Reflux monitoring was performed more often for IEM patients (25.8% vs. 8.6%, p = 0.002), but other adjunctive testing was similar. Among 101 patients with follow-up, symptomatic cohorts declined in both groups in relation to the initial presentation (p > 0.107 for each comparison) with management targeting symptoms, particularly acid suppression. Though prokinetics were used more often and behavioral therapy less often in IEM (p ≤ 0.015 for each comparison), symptom outcomes were similar between IEM and normal HRM. Despite a higher proportion with residual dysphagia on follow-up in IEM (64.0% vs. 39.1%, p = 0.043), an alternate mechanism for dysphagia was identified more often in IEM (68.8%) compared to normal HRM (27.8%, p = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: IEM is a descriptive manometric pattern rather than a clinical diagnosis requiring specific intervention in children. Management based on clinical presentation provides consistent symptom outcomes.

Efficacy and outcomes of per oral plication of the (neo)esophagus (POPE) for impaired emptying in achalasia and post-esophagectomy patients.

BACKGROUND: Per-oral plication of the (neo)esophagus (POPE) is an endoscopic procedure used to improve emptying of the defunctionalized esophagus or gastric conduit, with the hope of improving symptoms and quality of life. As this procedure has only been performed in the United States for the past 4 years, safety and efficacy have not been well established. METHODS: This is a retrospective case series for patients who underwent POPE from a single institution between 2019 and 2023. Data collected included demographics, preoperative diagnoses and treatments, imaging, endoscopic data, operative intervention, 90-day complications, and response to treatment. Quality of life and patient satisfaction data were collected by phone survey. RESULTS: Seventeen cases were identified, encompassing 13 primary procedures and 4 repeat POPEs (re-POPE). Eight patients had end-stage achalasia and 5 had impaired gastric emptying after esophagectomy with gastric conduits. Median age was 65 years and median ASA was 3, with 38.5% female patients. POPE was performed with 2-6 plication sutures in an average of 75 min. The majority of patients discharged home the same day. For the 17 procedures, there were 4 complications. Two patients required antibiotics for pneumonia, while 4 required procedural intervention. There were no deaths. Preoperative symptoms improved or resolved at initial follow up in 82.3% of patients. Four patients experienced symptom recurrence and required re-POPE, 1 with achalasia and 3 with gastric conduits. Although all achalasia patients had an "end-stage esophagus," none have required esophagectomy since the introduction of POPE. CONCLUSIONS: POPE is an endoscopic procedure that is efficacious in relieving emptying difficulties for the end-stage esophagus and gastric conduit. It may obviate the need for esophagectomy or conduit replacement. Also, it can be repeated in select patients. While the risk profile of complications is favorable compared to alternative operations, patients with gastric conduits are at higher risk.

Saliva Production and Esophageal Motility Influence Esophageal Acid Clearance Related to Post-reflux Swallow-Induced Peristaltic Wave.

BACKGROUND: The post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) brings salivary bicarbonate to neutralize residual distal esophageal mucosal acidification. AIMS: To determine if reduced saliva production and esophageal body hypomotility would compromise PSPW-induced pH recovery in the distal esophagus. METHODS: In this multicenter retrospective cross-sectional study, patients with confirmed Sjogren's syndrome and scleroderma/mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) who underwent high resolution manometry (HRM) and ambulatory pH-impedance monitoring off antisecretory therapy were retrospectively identified. Patients without these disorders undergoing HRM and pH-impedance monitoring for GERD symptoms were identified from the same time-period. Acid exposure time, numbers of reflux episodes and PSPW, pH recovery with PSPW, and HRM metrics were extracted. Univariate comparisons and multivariable analysis were performed to determine predictors of pH recovery with PSPW. RESULTS: Among Sjogren's syndrome (n = 34), scleroderma/MCTD (n = 14), and comparison patients with reflux symptoms (n = 96), the scleroderma/MCTD group had significantly higher AET, higher prevalence of hypomotility, lower detected reflux episodes, and very low numbers of PSPW (p ≤ 0.004 compared to other groups). There was no difference in pH-impedance metrics between Sjogren's syndrome, and comparison patients (p ≥ 0.481). Proportions with complete pH recovery with PSPW was lower in Sjogren's patients compared to comparison reflux patients (p = 0.009), predominantly in subsets with hypomotility (p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, diagnosis of Sjogren's syndrome, scleroderma/MCTD or neither (p = 0.014) and esophageal hypomotility (p = 0.024) independently predicted lack of complete pH recovery with PSPW, while higher total reflux episodes trended (p = 0.051). CONCLUSIONS: Saliva production and motor function are both important in PSPW related pH recovery.

Correlation of diaphragm thickening fraction and oesophageal pressure swing in non-invasive ventilation of healthy subjects.

INTRODUCTION: The diaphragm thickening fraction (DTF) may be a valuable tool for estimating respiratory effort in non-invasive ventilation. The primary aim of this physiological study is the investigation of the correlation of DTF with oesophageal pressure swings (ΔPoes). A secondary aim is to assess the discriminatory capacity of the index tests for different exercise loads. METHODS: Healthy volunteers underwent spontaneous breathing and non-invasive ventilation with a sequence of different respirator settings. The first sequence was carried out at rest. The same sequence was repeated twice, with additional ergometry of 25 and 50 Watts, respectively. DTF and ΔPoes were measured during each ventilation configuration. RESULTS: 23 individuals agreed to participate. DTF was moderately correlated with ΔPoes (repeated measures correlation ρ = 0.410, p < 0.001). Both ΔPoes and DTF increased consistently with exercise loading in every ventilation configuration, however ΔPoes showed greater discriminatory capacity. CONCLUSION: DTF was moderately correlated with ΔPoes and could discriminate reasonably between exercise loads in a small cohort of non-invasively ventilated healthy subjects. While it may not accurately reflect the absolute respiratory effort, DTF might help titrating individual non-invasive respiratory support. Further investigations are needed to test this hypothesis. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was not prospectively registered.

How to diagnose GERC more effectively: reflections on post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index and mean nocturnal baseline impedance.

INTRODUCTION: Post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index (PSPWI) and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) are novel parameters reflect esophageal clearance capacity and mucosal integrity. They hold potential in aiding the recognition of gastroesophageal reflux-induced chronic cough (GERC). Our study aims to investigate their diagnostic value in GERC. METHODS: This study included patients suspected GERC. General information and relevant laboratory examinations were collected, and final diagnosis were determined following guidelines for chronic cough. The parameters of multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH monitoring (MII-pH) in patients were analyzed and compared to explore their diagnostic value in GERC. RESULTS: A total of 186 patients were enrolled in this study. The diagnostic value of PSPWI for GERC was significant, with the area under the working curve (AUC) of 0.757 and a cutoff value of 39.4%, which was not statistically different from that of acid exposure time (AET) (p > 0.05). The combined diagnostic value of AET > 4.4% and PSPWI < 39.4% was superior to using AET > 4.4% alone (p < 0.05). Additionally, MNBI and distal MNBI also contributed to the diagnosis of GERC, with AUC values of 0.639 and 0.624, respectively. AET > 4.4% or PSPWI < 39.4% is associated with a 44% reduction in missed diagnoses of non-acid GERC compared to AET > 6.0% or symptom association probability (SAP) ≥ 95%, and may be more favorable for identifying GERC. CONCLUSION: The diagnostic value of PSPWI for GERC is comparable to that of AET. Combining PSPWI < 39.4% or AET > 4.4% can improve the diagnostic efficiency by reducing the risk of missed diagnoses in cases where non-acid reflux is predominant. Distal MNBI and MNBI can serve as secondary reference indices in the diagnosis of GERC.

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy findings that do no not explain dysphagia are associated with underutilization of high-resolution manometry.

In patients with dysphagia that is not explained by upper endoscopy, high-resolution esophageal manometry (HRM) is the next logical step in diagnostic testing. This study investigated predictors of failure to refer for HRM after an upper endoscopy that was performed for but did not explain dysphagia. This was a retrospective cohort study of patients >18 years of age who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) for dysphagia from 2015 to 2021. Patients with EGD findings that explained dysphagia (e.g. esophageal mass, eosinophilic esophagitis, Schatzki ring, etc.) were excluded from the main analyses. The primary outcome was failure to refer for HRM within 1 year of the index non-diagnostic EGD. We also investigated delayed referral for HRM, defined as HRM performed after the median. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to identify risk factors that independently predicted failure to refer for HRM, conditioned on the providing endoscopist. Among 2132 patients who underwent EGD for dysphagia, 1240 (58.2%) did not have findings to explain dysphagia on the index EGD. Of these 1240 patients, 148 (11.9%) underwent HRM within 1 year of index EGD. Endoscopic findings (e.g. hiatal hernia, tortuous esophagus, Barrett's esophagus, surgically altered anatomy not involving the gastroesophageal junction, and esophageal varices) perceived to explain dysphagia were independently associated with failure to refer for HRM (adjusted odds ratio 0.45, 95% confidence interval 0.25-0.80). Of the 148 patients who underwent HRM within 1 year of index EGD, 29.7% were diagnosed with a disorder of esophagogastric junction outflow, 17.6% with a disorder of peristalsis, and 2.0% with both disorders of esophagogastric outflow and peristalsis. The diagnosis made by HRM was similar among those who had incidental EGD findings that were non-diagnostic for dysphagia compared with those who had completely normal EGD findings. Demographic factors including race/ethnicity, insurance type, and income were not associated with failure to refer for HRM or delayed HRM. Patients with dysphagia and endoscopic findings unrelated to dysphagia have a similar prevalence of esophageal motility disorders to those with normal endoscopic examinations, yet these patients are less likely to undergo HRM. Provider education is indicated to increase HRM referral in these patients.

Diagnostic differences in high-resolution esophageal motility in a large Mexican cohort based on geographic distribution.

High-resolution esophageal manometry [HRM] has become the gold standard for the evaluation of esophageal motility disorders. It is unclear whether there are HRM differences in diagnostic outcome based on regional or geographic distribution. The diagnostic outcome of HRM in a diverse geographical population of Mexico was compared and determined if there is variability in diagnostic results among referral centers. Consecutive patients referred for HRM during 2016-2020 were included. Four major referral centers in Mexico participated in the study: northeastern, southeastern, and central (Mexico City, two centers). All studies were interpreted by experienced investigators using Chicago Classification 3 and the same technology. A total of 2293 consecutive patients were included. More abnormal studies were found in the center (61.3%) versus south (45.8%) or north (45.2%) P < 0.001. Higher prevalence of achalasia was noted in the south (21.5%) versus center (12.4%) versus north (9.5%) P < 0.001. Hypercontractile disorders were more common in the north (11.0%) versus the south (5.2%) or the center (3.6%) P.001. A higher frequency of weak peristalsis occurred in the center (76.8%) versus the north (74.2%) or the south (69.2%) P < 0.033. Gastroesophageal junction obstruction was diagnosed in (7.2%) in the center versus the (5.3%) in the north and (4.2%) in the south p.141 (ns). This is the first study to address the diagnostic outcome of HRM in diverse geographical regions of Mexico. We identified several significant diagnostic differences across geographical centers. Our study provides the basis for further analysis of the causes contributing to these differences.

Exploratory study on the impact of intraesophageal pressure on quality of life in patients following total gastrectomy: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The usefulness of high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) in patients who underwent total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y (R-Y) anastomosis has never been well validated. This study aimed to investigate whether intraesophageal pressure affects quality of life in patients who underwent total gastrectomy with R-Y anastomosis. METHODS: The participants comprised 12 patients who underwent total gastrectomy for gastric cancer between October 2014 and July 2022 and underwent a postsurgical HRIM examination. The association between the HRIM data and Postgastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale-37 (PGSAS-37) questionnaires was analyzed. RESULTS: Esophageal body motility was normal in almost all patients. The anastomosis shape (circular stapler and overlap method with linear stapler) did not influence intraesophageal pressure. The integrated relaxation pressure and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) residual pressure during swallowing-induced relaxation were involved in "diarrhea subscale" scores (p = 0.0244 and p = 0.0244, respectively). The average maximum intrabolus pressure was not involved in postgastrectomy symptom. The contractile front velocity correlated with the "indigestion subscale," "diarrhea subscale," and "constipation subscale" (p = 0.0408, p = 0.0143, and p = 0.0060, respectively). The distal latency, i.e., the time from upper esophageal sphincter relaxation to contractile deceleration, was also associated with the "abdominal pain subscale" (p = 0.0399). LES pressure and esophageal body motility affected patients' quality of life after total gastrectomy. CONCLUSIONS: HRIM for the evaluation of intraesophageal pressure is useful for the functional assessment of esophagojejunostomy with the R-Y reconstruction after total gastrectomy.

Brief guidelines for beginners on how to perform and analyze esophageal high-resolution manometry.

High-resolution manometry (HRM) is a diagnostic tool for surgeons, gastroenterologists and other healthcare professionals to evaluate esophageal physiology. The Chicago Classification (CC) system is based on a consensus of worldwide experts to minimize ambiguity in HRM data acquisition and diagnosis of esophageal motility disorders. The most updated version, CCv4.0, was published in 2021; however, it does not provide step-by-step guidelines (i.e., for beginners) on how to assess the most important HRM metrics. This paper aims to summarize the basic guidelines for conducting a high-quality HRM study including data acquisition and interpretation, based on CCv4.0, using Manoview ESO analysis software, version 3.3 (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN).

Gemini-Assisted Deep Learning Classification Model for Automated Diagnosis of High-Resolution Esophageal Manometry Images.

Background/Objectives: To develop a deep learning model for esophageal motility disorder diagnosis using high-resolution manometry images with the aid of Gemini. Methods: Gemini assisted in developing this model by aiding in code writing, preprocessing, model optimization, and troubleshooting. Results: The model demonstrated an overall precision of 0.89 on the testing set, with an accuracy of 0.88, a recall of 0.88, and an F1-score of 0.885. It presented better results for multiple categories, particularly in the panesophageal pressurization category, with precision = 0.99 and recall = 0.99, yielding a balanced F1-score of 0.99. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential of artificial intelligence, particularly Gemini, in aiding the creation of robust deep learning models for medical image analysis, solving not just simple binary classification problems but more complex, multi-class image classification tasks.

[ADVANCES ON ESOPHAGEAL MEASUREMENTS: HIGH RESOLUTION MANOMETRY, TIMED BARIUM SWALLOW, ENDOFLIP AND PH MONITORING].

INTRODUCTION: Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) symptoms are very common in the general adult population. Dysphagia, heartburn, regurgitation and non-cardiac chest pain are the most common signs. The clinical approach in managing these symptoms starts with upper GI endoscopy in order to exclude inflammatory, neoplastic and fibrotic disorders that involve the esophagus. Upper GI endoscopy is mandatory especially when alarm signs exist. In patients with no structural abnormalities, physiological testing might aid to better understand the origin of the symptoms and to improve management.