The synergistic role of virtual coaching with simulation-based mastery learning for upper endoscopy.

Introduction: Our simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) curriculum, delivered in person, has been shown to successfully train novices in structured esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). SBML with virtual coaching (VC) has the potential to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of endoscopy training and expand access to trainees from around the world. We share our observations conducting an EGD training course using SBML with VC. Methods: We conducted a 1-week virtual SBML course for novice trainees across seven academic centers in the USA and Asia. The cognitive component was delivered using an online learning platform. For technical skills, a virtual coach supervised hands-on training and local coaches provided assistance when needed. At the end of training, an independent rater assessed simulation-based performance using a validated assessment tool. We assessed the clinical performance of 30 EGDs using the ASGE Assessment of Competency in Endoscopy tool. We compared the trainees' scores to our cohort trained using in-person SBML training using non-inferiority t-tests. Results: We enrolled 21 novice trainees (mean age: 30.8 ± 3.6 years; female: 52%). For tip deflection, the trainees reached the minimum passing standard after 31 ± 29 runs and mastery after 52 ± 37 runs. For structured EGD, the average score for the overall exam was 4.6 ± 0.6, similar to the in-person cohort (4.7 ± 0.5, p = 0.49). The knowledge-based assessment was also comparable (virtual coaching: 81.9 ± 0.1; direct coaching: 78.3 ± 0.1; p = 0.385). Over time, our novice trainees reached clinical competence at a similar rate to our historical in-person control. Conclusions: VC appears feasible and effective for training novice gastroenterology trainees. VC allowed us to scale our SBML course, expand access to experts, and administer SBML simultaneously across different sites at the highest standards.

Epidemiological, clinical and endoscopic characteristics of colorectal neuroendocrine neoplasms: a population-based study in the Netherlands.

Background and study aims Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) account for a small number of colorectal neoplasms. Endoscopic detection is essential for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Little is known about incidence of NENs in colonoscopy populations or the relationship between clinical, endoscopic and histopathologic features. We evaluated epidemiology, endoscopic and clinical characteristics of colorectal NENs in a population-based cohort. Patients and methods Medical records of NEN cases were cross-linked with the national pathology database from January 2001 to December 2015, in South Limburg County, the Netherlands, covering four endoscopy units. Senior pathologists reviewed and classified NENs using World Health Organization 5th edition (2019) guidelines. Results The number of colorectal NEN diagnoses was stable over time with 0.6 NEN per 1,000 patients. A total of NENs were detected in 85 patients: 65 neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and 20 poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). Rectal NETs were usually small sessile/submucosal lesions with yellowish (lipoma-like) color. Colonic NETs were larger sessile/submucosal lesions with darker color compared to background. Colorectal NECs presented as large, dark-colored lesions with ulcerated/necrotizing areas. Conclusions Our population-based data point to a stable and low incidence of 0.6 NEN per 1,000 patients in the Netherlands. Rectal NETs mainly present as small sessile yellowish lesions. Colonic NETs present as larger and darker lesions than background mucosa and NECs as darker lesions than background with ulceration/necrosis. Standardized endoscopic characterization of colorectal NENs is necessary to improve recognition of these lesions and provide a basis for evidence-based treatment and surveillance recommendations.

Electrolyte disturbances after bowel preparation for colonoscopy: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of population-based studies to explore pooled prevalence and magnitude of electrolyte changes after bowel preparation for colonoscopy based on the most recent guidelines. PATIENTS AND METHODS: PubMed and Cochrane were queried for population-based studies examining changes in electrolyte values after bowel preparation, published by July 1, 2021. We report prevalences of serum hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hyperphosphatemia, and hypocalcemia after bowel preparation and changes in mean electrolyte values after vs. before bowel preparation using sodium phosphate (NaP) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). RESULTS: Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria; 2386 unique patients were included. Overall, hypokalemia was found in 17.2% (95% CI 6.7, 30.9) in the NaP group vs. 4.8% (95% CI 0.27, 13.02) in the PEG group. The magnitude of potassium decrease after NaP bowel preparation was significantly increased compared to PEG (mean difference -0.38; 95% CI -0.49 to -0.27, P < 0.001). No study reported on major complications. CONCLUSIONS: Hypokalemia was found in 17.2% of patients after bowel preparation with NaP and in 4.8% of patients with PEG, a finding that is clinically relevant with respect to choosing the type of bowel preparation. The magnitude of the potassium decrease after NaP was significantly higher compared to PEG. These data provide the evidence that supports the recommendation of the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy against routine use of NaP for bowel preparation.

Recurrence Outcomes Less Favorable in T1 Rectal Cancer than in T1 Colon Cancer.

BACKGROUND: With the implementation of screening programs worldwide, diagnosis of early-stage colorectal cancer steadily increased, including T1 cancer. Current T1 cancer treatment does not differ according to anatomic location. We therefore compared the disease-free survival of T1 cancer arising from the rectum versus the colon. METHODS: The hospital-based study included subjects with T1 cancer at National Taiwan University Hospital from 2005 to 2014. Clinical, colonoscopy, and histopathology were reviewed for patients with a mean follow-up time of 7.1 (0.7-12.9) years. We conducted Kaplan-Meier analysis to compare the risk of recurrence by cancer location and Cox regression analysis to identify risk factors for T1 cancer recurrence. RESULTS: The final cohort included a total of 343 subjects with T1 cancer (mean age, 64.9 ± 11.7 years; 56.1% male), of whom 25 underwent endoscopic resection alone. Of the subjects who underwent surgery, 50 had lymph node metastasis and 268 did not. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the risk of recurrence was higher in T1 rectal cancer than T1 colon cancer (p = .022). Rectal location and larger neoplasm size were independent risk factors for recurrence, with hazard ratios of 4.84 (95% confidence interval, 1.18-19.92), and 1.32 (95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.65), respectively. The occurrence of advanced histology did not differ between T1 rectal and colon cancers (p = .58). CONCLUSION: T1 cancers arising from the rectum had less favorable recurrence outcomes than those arising from the colon. Further studies are needed to examine whether adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy can reduce the risk of recurrence in T1 rectal cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Current T1 colorectal cancer treatment and surveillance do not differ according to anatomic location. Clinical, colonoscopy, and histopathology were reviewed for 343 patients with T1 cancer with a mean follow-up time of 7.1 years. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the risk of recurrence was higher in T1 rectal cancer than T1 colon cancer. Moreover, the rectal location was an independent risk factor for recurrence. T1 cancers from the rectum had less favorable recurrence outcomes than those arising from the colon. It is critical to clarify whether adjuvant therapy or more close surveillance can reduce recurrence risk in T1 rectal cancer.

Substantial and sustained improvement of serrated polyp detection after a simple educational intervention: results from a prospective controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Serrated polyps (SPs) are an important cause of postcolonoscopy colorectal cancers (PCCRCs), which is likely the result of suboptimal SP detection during colonoscopy. We assessed the long-term effect of a simple educational intervention focusing on optimising SP detection. DESIGN: An educational intervention, consisting of two 45 min training sessions (held 3 years apart) on serrated polyp detection, was given to endoscopists from 9 Dutch hospitals. Hundred randomly selected and untrained endoscopists from other hospitals were selected as control group. Our primary outcome measure was the proximal SP detection rate (PSPDR) in trained versus untrained endoscopists who participated in our faecal immunochemical test (FIT)-based population screening programme. RESULTS: Seventeen trained and 100 untrained endoscopists were included, who performed 11 305 and 51 039 colonoscopies, respectively. At baseline, PSPDR was equal between the groups (9.3% vs 9.3%). After training, the PSPDR of trained endoscopists gradually increased to 15.6% in 2018. This was significantly higher than the PSPDR of untrained endoscopists, which remained stable around 10% (p=0.018). All below-average (ie, PSPDR ≤6%) endoscopists at baseline improved their PSPDR after training session 1, as did 57% of endoscopists with average PSPDR (6%-12%) at baseline. The second training session further improved the PSPDR in 44% of endoscopists with average PSPDR after the first training. CONCLUSION: A simple educational intervention was associated with substantial long-term improvement of PSPDR in a prospective controlled trial within FIT-based population screening. Widespread implementation of such interventions might be an easy way to improve SP detection, which may ultimately result in fewer PCCRCs. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03902899.

Rapid and Safe Crossing of the Chasm: Application of a Flipped Learning Framework for the Clipping Over the Scope Technique.

Training practicing physicians to adopt new technology may be difficult because most endoscopy training is given during fellowship training. As such, the adoption of new technology in gastroenterology is typically slow. We designed our course to train our cohort of practicing physicians using flipped learning, a pedagogical approach in which instructional cognitive content is delivered to the individual instead of the group, usually through online platforms and outside of the classroom. We describe our methods and results of the training courses on the techniques of clipping over the scope for gastrointestinal bleeding and endoscopic balloon dilation.

Endoscopic Assessment of the Malignant Potential of the Nonpolypoid (Flat and Depressed) Colorectal Neoplasms: Thinking Fast, and Slow.

Current endoscopy training methodology does not meet the learning traits, skills, and needs of the newer generation of gastroenterologists. This article provides information on assessment of the malignant potential of colorectal neoplasms. It takes a modern approach on the topic and integrates relevant information that aligns with the thinking process. The theory of thinking fast (reflex) and slow (rational) is used. By doing so, it is hoped that the learning process can be expedited and practiced immediately. The focus is on preresection assessment of nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasms. Assessment of polypoid, sessile-serrated adenoma/polyp, or inflammatory bowel disease dysplasia is briefly discussed.

Diabetes mellitus, genetic variants in the insulin-like growth factor pathway and colorectal cancer risk.

Genetic variation in the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) pathway may further increase the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Joint effects of T2DM and genetic variation in the IGF pathway on CRC risk can increase mechanistic insights. Participants from the Netherlands Cohort Study (n = 120, 852) completed a baseline questionnaire in 1986 when 55-69 years old (case-cohort, nsubcohort = 5,000, ncases = 3,441 after 16.3 years follow-up). Self-reported DM at baseline with onset at ≥30 years was classified as T2DM. Eighteen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the IGF pathway were aggregated in a genetic risk score (GRS). Cox proportional hazard ratios (HRs) for CRC were estimated according to combinations of T2DM status with GRS tertiles and categories of an IGF1 19-CA repeat polymorphism. Baseline T2DM prevalence was 3.1% in subcohort members and 3.8% in CRC cases. Comparison of combined categories with non-T2DM individuals in the lowest GRS tertile as reference showed that those in the highest GRS tertiles with and without T2DM had significantly increased CRC risks, particularly those with T2DM (HR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.11, 4.66). As compared to IGF1 19-CA wild-type carriers without T2DM, carrying two IGF1 19-CA variant repeat alleles were associated with a significantly decreased CRC risk in those without T2DM (HR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.63-0.91). This association was absent when T2DM was present. Our study of joint effects indicated that the presence of unfavorable alleles in the IGF pathway may further increase the risk of CRC associated with T2DM.

A multimodal (FACILE) classification for optical diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease associated neoplasia.

BACKGROUND: Characterization of colonic lesions in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains challenging. We developed an endoscopic classification of visual characteristics to identify colitis-associated neoplasia using multimodal advanced endoscopic imaging (Frankfurt Advanced Chromoendoscopic IBD LEsions [FACILE] classification). METHODS: The study was conducted in three phases: 1) development - an expert panel defined endoscopic signs and predictors of dysplasia in IBD and, using multivariable logistic regression created the FACILE classification; 2) validation - using 60 IBD lesions from an image library, two assessments of diagnostic accuracy for neoplasia were performed and interobserver agreement between experts using FACILE was determined; 3) reproducibility - the reproducibility of the FACILE classification was tested in gastroenterologists, trainees, and junior doctors after completion of a training module. RESULTS: The experts initially selected criteria such as morphology, color, surface, vessel architecture, signs of inflammation, and lesion border. Multivariable logistic regression confirmed that nonpolypoid lesion, irregular vessel architecture, irregular surface pattern, and signs of inflammation within the lesion were predictors of dysplasia. Area under the curve of this logistic model using a bootstrapped estimate was 0.76 (0.73 - 0.78). The training module resulted in improved accuracy and kappa agreement in all nonexperts, though in trainees and junior doctors the kappa agreement was still moderate and poor, respectively. CONCLUSION: We developed, validated, and demonstrated reproducibility of a new endoscopic classification (FACILE) for the diagnosis of dysplasia in IBD using all imaging modalities. Flat shape, irregular surface and vascular patterns, and signs of inflammation predicted dysplasia. The diagnostic performance of all nonexpert participants improved after a training module.

Detection and characterization of colorectal polyps using high-definition white light and i-Scan: Evidence-based consensus recommendations using a modified Delphi process.

BACKGROUND: i-Scan is an image enhancement modality, which provides enhanced views of mucosal structures and vascular patterns. METHODS: A modified Delphi process was used to develop a series of evidence-based statements on the role of high-definition white light (HDWL) and i-Scan for the detection and diagnosis of colorectal neoplasms. Each statement was voted to achieve consensus (i.e. >80% agreement). RESULTS: Seven proposed statements achieved consensus: (1) HDWL is recommended rather than standard definition (SD) for detection and diagnosis of colorectal neoplasms; (2) HDWL colonoscopy with i-Scan improves polyp and adenoma detection rates when compared with SD colonoscopy; (3) HDWL + i-Scan is superior to HDWL alone for the optical diagnosis of colorectal neoplasms; (4) HDWL + i-Scan in expert hands meets American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) in the Preservation and Incorporation of Valuable Endoscopic Innovations (PIVI) standards for optical diagnosis of diminutive neoplasms; (5) HDWL + i-Scan in non-expert hands does not meet ASGE PIVI standards for optical diagnosis of diminutive neoplasms; (6) optical diagnosis of polyps with i-Scan has a learning curve and needs systematic training; and (7) the performance of i-Scan for the in vivo diagnosis of colorectal neoplasms is similar to Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) and Fuji Intelligent Chromo Endoscopy (FICE). CONCLUSIONS: Seven proposed statements on the use of HDWL and i-Scan for the detection and diagnosis of colorectal neoplasms achieved consensus.

No Difference in Colorectal Cancer Incidence or Stage at Detection by Colonoscopy Among 3 Countries With Different Lynch Syndrome Surveillance Policies.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Patients with Lynch syndrome are at high risk for developing colorectal cancer (CRC). Regular colonoscopic surveillance is recommended, but there is no international consensus on the appropriate interval. We investigated whether shorter intervals are associated with lower CRC incidence and detection at earlier stages by comparing the surveillance policies in Germany, which evaluates patients by colonoscopy annually, in the Netherlands (patients evaluated at 1-2-year intervals), and Finland (patients evaluated at 2-3-year intervals). METHODS: We collected data from 16,327 colonoscopic examinations (conducted from 1984 through 2015) of 2747 patients with Lynch syndrome (pathogenic variants in the MLH1, MSH2, or MSH6 genes) from the German HNPCC Consortium, the Dutch Lynch Syndrome Registry, and the Finnish Lynch Syndrome Registry. Our analysis included 23,309 person-years of cumulative observation time. Time from the index colonoscopy to incident CRC or adenoma was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method; groups were compared using the log-rank test. We performed multivariable Cox regression analyses to identify factors associated with CRC risk (diagnosis of CRC before the index colonoscopy, sex, mutation, age, and presence of adenoma at the index colonoscopy). RESULTS: The 10-year cumulative CRC incidence ranged from 4.1% to 18.4% in patients with low- and high-risk profiles, respectively, and varied with age, sex, mutation, and prior detection of CRC or adenoma. Observed colonoscopy intervals were largely in accordance with the country-specific recommendations. We found no significant differences in cumulative CRC incidence or CRC stage at detection among countries. There was no significant association between CRC stage and time since last colonoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: We did not find a significant reduction in CRC incidence or stage of detection in Germany (annual colonoscopic surveillance) than in countries with longer surveillance intervals (the Netherlands, with 1-2-year intervals, and Finland, with 2-3-year intervals). Overall, we did not find a significant association of the interval with CRC risk, although age, sex, mutation, and prior neoplasia were used to individually modify colonoscopy intervals. Studies are needed to develop and validate risk-adapted surveillance strategies and to identify patients who benefit from shorter surveillance intervals.

Update on the role of chromoendoscopy in colonoscopic surveillance of patients with Lynch syndrome.

(Virtual) chromoendoscopy (CE) improves the detection of small or flat colorectal polyps; however, the evidence in high-risk groups, such as patients of Lynch syndrome (LS), is low. Our aim was to identify and update the evidence for the recommendations regarding surveillance of LS patients, for which the current underlying evidence for use of (virtual) CE was explored. A systematic literature search in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library was conducted, for all studies comparing (virtual) CE with white-light endoscopy in LS patients. Studies are explained in detail, with special attention to study design, type of (virtual) CE, and timing of polypectomy. Eight studies (409 patients) were included. Five were nonrandomized back-to-back studies and three were randomized back-to-back studies (one parallel and two cross-over design). In six studies the polyps were directly removed, while in two studies polyps were removed only during the second caecal withdrawal. Five studies researched CE with indigo carmine and three studies investigated virtual CE. Due to the heterogeneity between studies, no statistical analysis could be performed. There was a large variety in study design, timing of polypectomy, different (virtual) CE techniques and the patients that were included. Based on current literature, no firm conclusions can be drawn with respect to the additional value of (virtual) CE in the surveillance of patients with LS. However, training of endoscopists in detection and removal of nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasms is crucial, as well as stricter adherence to LS surveillance guidelines in daily clinical practice. For future research, standardization in study designs is needed.

World Endoscopy Organization Consensus Statements on Post-Colonoscopy and Post-Imaging Colorectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Colonoscopy examination does not always detect colorectal cancer (CRC)- some patients develop CRC after negative findings from an examination. When this occurs before the next recommended examination, it is called interval cancer. From a colonoscopy quality assurance perspective, that term is too restrictive, so the term post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer (PCCRC) was created in 2010. However, PCCRC definitions and methods for calculating rates vary among studies, making it impossible to compare results. We aimed to standardize the terminology, identification, analysis, and reporting of PCCRCs and CRCs detected after other whole-colon imaging evaluations (post-imaging colorectal cancers [PICRCs]). METHODS: A 20-member international team of gastroenterologists, pathologists, and epidemiologists; a radiologist; and a non-medical professional met to formulate a series of recommendations, standardize definitions and categories (to align with interval cancer terminology), develop an algorithm to determine most-plausible etiologies, and develop standardized methodology to calculate rates of PCCRC and PICRC. The team followed the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II tool. A literature review provided 401 articles to support proposed statements; evidence was rated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system. The statements were voted on anonymously by team members, using a modified Delphi approach. RESULTS: The team produced 21 statements that provide comprehensive guidance on PCCRCs and PICRCs. The statements present standardized definitions and terms, as well as methods for qualitative review, determination of etiology, calculation of PCCRC rates, and non-colonoscopic imaging of the colon. CONCLUSIONS: A 20-member international team has provided standardized methods for analysis of etiologies of PCCRCs and PICRCs and defines its use as a quality indicator. The team provides recommendations for clinicians, organizations, researchers, policy makers, and patients.