GASTRIC RESIDUAL VOLUME FACTORS AFTER BOWEL PREPARATION WITH MANNITOL EXPRESS.

BACKGROUND: Bowel preparation with mannitol is a well-established method in Brazil. However, factors that interfere with the gastric emptying time period are yet to be known. Knowing these factors may favor the examination scheduling logistics and the individualized orientation for each patient. OBJECTIVE: Know the factors that can contribute to the gastric emptying time after intestinal preparation with express mannitol. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study to know factors that may contribute on the gastric emptying timing: predominant type of diet, comorbidities, medication usage, previous surgeries, number of evacuation per week, bearer of bowel obstipation, fecal type, diet type, number of evacuations after the home usage of bisacodyl before the ingestion of mannitol and number of evacuations after the ingestion of mannitol until reaching a proper bowel preparation. Before starting the colonoscopy exam, an upper digestive endoscopy exam was made to aspirate the gastric content. RESULTS: Sample was composed of 103 patients, 55 (53.4%) women, medium age 61 (±12.1) years, medium weight 75.3 (±14.1) kg, medium height 1.7 (±10) m and medium BMI of 26.6 (±3.9) kg/m2. Average gastric residual volume was 120.9 (0-900) mL. Gastric residual volume (GRV) below 100 mL (GRV ≤100 mL) occurred in 45 (43.6%) patients, 24 (53.3%) women, medium age of 61.0 years and medium BMI of 26.7 kg/m2. Gastric residual volume above 100 mL (GRV >100 mL) occurred on 58 (56.3%) patients, 29 (50%) women, medium age of 61.0 years and medium BMI of 26.2 kg/m2. Comparing both groups, average fasting time period after the ingestion of mannitol was significantly higher on the group with GRV ≤100 mL than group with GRV >100 mL, 123.1 (60-246) vs 95.3 (55-195) minutes, respectively. There was also statistical significance concerning the usage of ezetimibe 6 (13.7%) in the group with GRV ≤100 mL and statistical significance in the group with GRV >100 mL concerning the usage of paroxetine 3 (6.7%) and tadalafil 3 (6.7%) and surgical history of prostatectomy 3 (6.7%) and bridle withdrawal 3 (6.7%). CONCLUSION: We may conclude in this study that the usage of ezetimibe and fasting above 2 hours after the ingestion of mannitol decrease significantly the incidence of a GRV >100 mL. The usage of paroxetine, tadalafil and surgical history of prostatectomy or bridle withdrawal may contribute to increase de incidence of a GRV >100 mL.

Fatores predisponentes do volume residual gástrico após preparo expresso com manitol / Gastric residual volume factors after bowel preparation with mannitol express

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Bowel preparation with mannitol is a well-established method in Brazil. However, factors that interfere with the gastric emptying time period are yet to be known. Knowing these factors may favor the examination scheduling logistics and the individualized orientation for each patient. OBJECTIVE: Know the factors that can contribute to the gastric emptying time after intestinal preparation with express mannitol. METHODS: This is a prospective observational study to know factors that may contribute on the gastric emptying timing: predominant type of diet, comorbidities, medication usage, previous surgeries, number of evacuation per week, bearer of bowel obstipation, fecal type, diet type, number of evacuations after the home usage of bisacodyl before the ingestion of mannitol and number of evacuations after the ingestion of mannitol until reaching a proper bowel preparation. Before starting the colonoscopy exam, an upper digestive endoscopy exam was made to aspirate the gastric content. RESULTS: Sample was composed of 103 patients, 55 (53.4%) women, medium age 61 (±12.1) years, medium weight 75.3 (±14.1) kg, medium height 1.7 (±10) m and medium BMI of 26.6 (±3.9) kg/m2. Average gastric residual volume was 120.9 (0-900) mL. Gastric residual volume (GRV) below 100 mL (GRV ≤100 mL) occurred in 45 (43.6%) patients, 24 (53.3%) women, medium age of 61.0 years and medium BMI of 26.7 kg/m2. Gastric residual volume above 100 mL (GRV >100 mL) occurred on 58 (56.3%) patients, 29 (50%) women, medium age of 61.0 years and medium BMI of 26.2 kg/m2. Comparing both groups, average fasting time period after the ingestion of mannitol was significantly higher on the group with GRV ≤100 mL than group with GRV >100 mL, 123.1 (60-246) vs 95.3 (55-195) minutes, respectively. There was also statistical significance concerning the usage of ezetimibe 6 (13.7%) in the group with GRV ≤100 mL and statistical significance in the group with GRV >100 mL concerning the usage of paroxetine 3 (6.7%) and tadalafil 3 (6.7%) and surgical history of prostatectomy 3 (6.7%) and bridle withdrawal 3 (6.7%). CONCLUSION: We may conclude in this study that the usage of ezetimibe and fasting above 2 hours after the ingestion of mannitol decrease significantly the incidence of a GRV >100 mL. The usage of paroxetine, tadalafil and surgical history of prostatectomy or bridle withdrawal may contribute to increase de incidence of a GRV >100 mL.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: O preparo intestinal com manitol é um método bem estabelecido no Brasil. No entanto, os fatores que interferem no tempo de esvaziamento gástrico ainda não são conhecidos. O conhecimento desses fatores pode favorecer a logística de agendamento do exame e a orientação individualizada para cada paciente. OBJETIVO: Estudar os fatores que podem contribuir para o tempo de esvaziamento gástrico após o preparo intestinal com manitol expresso. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo observacional prospectivo com o objetivo de conhecer os seguintes fatores que podem contribuir no tempo de esvaziamento gástrico: tipo de dieta predominante, comorbidades, uso de medicamentos, cirurgias anteriores, número de evacuações por semana, portador de obstipação intestinal, tipo fecal, tipo de dieta, número de evacuações após o uso domiciliar de bisacodil antes da ingestão de manitol e número de evacuações após a ingestão de manitol até atingir o preparo intestinal adequado. Antes de iniciar o preparo intestinal, os pacientes responderam a um questionário clínico. O endoscópio foi introduzido para aspirar o conteúdo gástrico, antes de iniciar a colonoscopia. RESULTADOS: A amostra foi composta por 103 pacientes, sendo 55 mulheres, com média de idade de 61 anos, peso médio de 75,3 kg, altura média de 1,7 m e IMC médio de 26,6 kg/m2. O volume residual gástrico médio medido foi 120,9 (0-900) mL. Volume residual gástrico inferior a 100 mL (VRG ≤100 mL) foi encontrado em 45 (43,6%) pacientes, sendo 24 (53,3%) mulheres, com média de idade de 61,0 anos e IMC médio de 26,7 kg/m2. Volume residual gástrico acima de 100 mL (VRG >100 mL) ocorreu em 58 (56,3%) pacientes, sendo 29 (50%) mulheres, com idade média de 61,0 anos e IMC médio de 26,2 kg/m2. Comparando os dois grupos, notou-se que o tempo médio de jejum após a ingestão de manitol foi significativamente maior no grupo com VRG ≤100 mL do que no grupo com VRG> 100 mL, 123,1 (60-246) vs 95,3 (55-195) minutos, respectivamente. Também houve significância estatística em relação ao uso de ezetimiba 6 (13,7%), sendo maior no grupo com VRG ≤100 mL. Além disso, houve significância estatística no grupo com VRG >100 mL quanto ao uso de paroxetina 3 (6,7%) e tadalafil 3 (6,7%) e história cirúrgica de prostatectomia 3 (6,7%) e retirada de bridas 3 (6,7%). CONCLUSÃO: Podemos concluir neste estudo que o uso de ezetimiba e o jejum acima de 2 horas após a ingestão de manitol diminuem significativamente a incidência de um VRG> 100 mL. O uso de paroxetina, tadalafil e história cirúrgica de prostatectomia ou retirada de bridas podem contribuir para o aumento da incidência de um VRG >100 mL.

Adverse Events and Complications with Intragastric Balloons: a Narrative Review (with Video).

Intragastric balloon (IGB) is a minimally invasive and reversible therapy for weight loss with a good efficacy and safety profile. Introduced in the 1980s, IGBs have significantly evolved in the last couple of decades. They mechanically act by decreasing the volume of the stomach and its reservoir capacity, delaying gastric emptying, and increasing satiety leading to a subsequent weight loss. Despite the low rates of complications and mortality associated with IGBs, adverse events and complications still occur and can range from mild to fatal. This review aims to provide an update on the current scientific evidence in regard to complications and adverse effects of the use of the IGB and its treatment. This is the first comprehensive narrative review in the literature dedicated to this subject.

Prognostic factors for ESD of early gastric cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background and study aims Gastric neoplasms are one of the leading types of cancer in the world and early detection is essential to improve prognosis. Endoscopy is the gold-standard diagnostic procedure and allows adequate treatment in selected cases. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been reported to safely address most early gastric cancers (EGCs), with high curability rates. However, data on prognostic factors related to ESDs of EGCs are conflicting. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review the available literature and to perform a meta-analysis to identify the relevant prognostic factors in this context. Methods We performed this study according to PRISMA guidelines. Comparative studies assessing the relationship between curative resection or long-term curability rates and relevant prognostic factors were selected. Prognostic factors were demographic data, lesion features (location, morphology of the lesion, size, and depth of invasion), histological findings, Helycobacter pylori (HP) infection, presence of gastric a atrophy and body mass index (BMI). Finally, we also evaluated risk factors related to metachronous gastric neoplasm. Results The initial search retrieved 2829 records among which 46 studies were included for systematic review and meta-analysis. The total sample comprised 28366 patients and 29282 lesions. Regarding curative resection, pooled data showed no significant influence of sex [odds ratio (OR): 1.15 (0,97, 1.36) P  = 0.10 I 2  = 47 %] , age [OR: 1.00 (0.61, 1.64) P  = 1.00 I 2  = 58 %], posterior vs non-posterior location [OR: 1.35 (0.81, 2.27) P  = 0.25 I 2  = 84 %], depressed vs von-depressed macroscopic type[OR: 1.21 (0.99, 1.49) P  = 0.07 I 2  = 0 %], non-upper vs upper location [OR: 1.41 (0.93, 2.14) P  = 0.10 I 2  = 77 %] and BMI [OR: 0.84 (0.57; 1.26) P  = 0.41 I 2  = 0 %]. Differentiated neoplasms presented greater chance of cure compare to undifferentiated [OR: 0.10 (0.07, 0.15) P  < 0.00001 I 2  = 0 %]. Ulcerated lesions had lower curative rates compared to non-ulcerated [OR: 3.92 (2.81, 5.47) P  < 0.00001 I 2  = 44 %]. Lesions smaller than 20 mm had greater chance of curative resection [OR: 3.94 (3.25, 4.78) P  < 0.00001 I 2  = 38 %]. Bleeding during procedure had lower curative rates compared to non-bleeding [OR: 2.13 (1.56, 2.93) P  < 0.0001 I 2  = 0 %]. Concerning long-term cure, female gender [OR 1.62 (1.33, 1.97) P  < 0.00001 I 2  = 0 %] and the mucosal over SM1 cancers were protective factors [OR: 0.08 (0.02, 0.39) P  = 0.002 I 2  = 86 %]. Gastric atrophy [OR: 0.60 (0.45, 0.81) P  = 0.0006 I 2  = 42 %] and the pepsinogen I/pepsinogen II ratio [OR 2.29 (1.47, 3.57) P  = 0.0002 I 2  = 0 %] were risk factors to metachronous gastric neoplasm. Conclusions Ulcerated lesions, histology, bleeding and size > 20 mm are prognostic factors concerning curative resection. Regarding long-term cure, female gender and mucosal over SM1 cancer are predictive factors. Gastric atrophy and the pepsinogen ratio are risk factors for metachronous gastric neoplasm.

UPDATE OF THE BRAZILIAN SOCIETY OF HEPATOLOGY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES OF THE LIVER.

New data concerning the management of autoimmune liver diseases have emerged since the last single-topic meeting sponsored by the Brazilian Society of Hepatology to draw recommendations about the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), overlap syndromes of AIH, PBC and PSC and specific complications and topics concerning AIH and cholestatic liver diseases. This manuscript updates those previous recommendations according to the best evidence available in the literature up to now. The same panel of experts that took part in the first consensus document reviewed all recommendations, which were subsequently scrutinized by all members of the Brazilian Society of Hepatology using a web-based approach. The new recommendations are presented herein.

SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF EUS-GUIDED COIL PLUS CYANOACRYLATE VERSUS CONVENTIONAL CYANOACRYLATE TECHNIQUE IN THE TREATMENT OF GASTRIC VARICES: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL.

BACKGROUND: One of the most feared complications with the use of cyanoacrylate for treatment of gastric varices is the occurrence of potentially life-threatening systemic embolism. Thus, endoscopists are turning towards new techniques, including endoscopic coiling, as a potentially safer and more effective treatment option. However, no studies have been performed comparing the two techniques. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare the safety and efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound guided coil and cyanoacrylate injection versus the conventional technique of injection of cyanoacrylate alone. DESIGN: A pilot randomized controlled trial. METHODS: Patients randomized into group I were treated with coil and cyanoacrylate, and those in group II with cyanoacrylate alone. Flow within the varix was evaluated immediately after the treatment session and one month following initial treatment. If thrombosis was confirmed, additional follow-up was performed 4 and 10 months following initial treatment. All patients underwent a thoracic computerized tomography scan after the procedure. RESULTS: A total of 32 patients, 16 in each group, were followed for an average of 9.9 months (range 1-26 months). Immediately after the procedure, 6 (37.5%) group-I patients and 8 (50%) group-II patients presented total flow reduction in the treated vessel (P=0.476). After 30 days, 11 (73.3%) group-I patients and 12 (75%) group-II patients were found to have varix thrombosis. In both groups, the majority of patients required only one single session for varix obliteration (73.3% in group I versus 80% in group II). Asymptomatic pulmonary embolism occurred in 4 (25%) group-I patients and 8 (50%) group-II patients (P=0.144). No significant difference between the groups was observed. CONCLUSION: There is no statistical difference between endoscopic ultrasound guided coils plus cyanoacrylate versus conventional cyanoacrylate technique in relation to the incidence of embolism. However, a greater tendency towards embolism was observed in the group treated using the conventional technique. Both techniques have similar efficacy in the obliteration of varices. Given the small sample size of our pilot data, our results are insufficient to prove the clinical benefit of the combined technique, and do not yet justify its use, especially in light of higher cost. Further studies with larger sample size are warranted.

Treatment of high-grade dysplasia and intramucosal carcinoma using radiofrequency ablation or endoscopic mucosal resection + radiofrequency ablation: Meta-analysis and systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The progression of Barrett's esophagus (BE) to early esophageal carcinoma occurs sequentially; the metaplastic epithelium develops from a low-grade dysplasia to a high-grade dysplasia (HGD), resulting in early esophageal carcinoma and, eventually, invasive carcinoma. Endoscopic approaches including resection and ablation can be used in the treatment of this condition. AIM: To compare the effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) vs endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) + RFA in the endoscopic treatment of HGD and intramucosal carcinoma. METHODS: In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review included studies comparing the two endoscopic techniques (EMR + RFA and RFA alone) in the treatment of HGD and intramucosal carcinoma in patients with BE. Our analysis included studies involving adult patients of any age with BE with HGD or intramucosal carcinoma. The studies compared RFA and EMR + RFA methods were included regardless of randomization status. RESULTS: The seven studies included in this review represent a total of 1950 patients, with 742 in the EMR + RFA group and 1208 in the RFA alone group. The use of EMR + RFA was significantly more effective in the treatment of HGD [RD 0.35 (0.15, 0.56)] than was the use of RFA alone. The evaluated complications (stenosis, bleeding, and thoracic pain) were not significantly different between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic resection in combination with RFA is a safe and effective method in the treatment of HGD and intramucosal carcinoma, with higher rates of remission and no significant differences in complication rates when compared to the use of RFA alone.

Segurança e eficácia do uso de cianoacrilato + coil guiado por ultrassom endoscópico versus técnica convencional de cianoacrilato no tratamento de varizes gástricas: um ensaio clínico randomizado / Safety and efficacy of eus-guided coil plus cyanoacrylate versus conventional cyanoacrylate technique in the treatment of gastric varices: a randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: One of the most feared complications with the use of cyanoacrylate for treatment of gastric varices is the occurrence of potentially life-threatening systemic embolism. Thus, endoscopists are turning towards new techniques, including endoscopic coiling, as a potentially safer and more effective treatment option. However, no studies have been performed comparing the two techniques. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare the safety and efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound guided coil and cyanoacrylate injection versus the conventional technique of injection of cyanoacrylate alone. DESIGN: A pilot randomized controlled trial. METHODS: Patients randomized into group I were treated with coil and cyanoacrylate, and those in group II with cyanoacrylate alone. Flow within the varix was evaluated immediately after the treatment session and one month following initial treatment. If thrombosis was confirmed, additional follow-up was performed 4 and 10 months following initial treatment. All patients underwent a thoracic computerized tomography scan after the procedure. RESULTS: A total of 32 patients, 16 in each group, were followed for an average of 9.9 months (range 1-26 months). Immediately after the procedure, 6 (37.5%) group-I patients and 8 (50%) group-II patients presented total flow reduction in the treated vessel (P=0.476). After 30 days, 11 (73.3%) group-I patients and 12 (75%) group-II patients were found to have varix thrombosis. In both groups, the majority of patients required only one single session for varix obliteration (73.3% in group I versus 80% in group II). Asymptomatic pulmonary embolism occurred in 4 (25%) group-I patients and 8 (50%) group-II patients (P=0.144). No significant difference between the groups was observed. CONCLUSION: There is no statistical difference between endoscopic ultrasound guided coils plus cyanoacrylate versus conventional cyanoacrylate technique in relation to the incidence of embolism. However, a greater tendency towards embolism was observed in the group treated using the conventional technique. Both techniques have similar efficacy in the obliteration of varices. Given the small sample size of our pilot data, our results are insufficient to prove the clinical benefit of the combined technique, and do not yet justify its use, especially in light of higher cost. Further studies with larger sample size are warranted.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Uma das complicações mais temidas com o uso de cianoacrilato para tratamento de varizes gástricas é a ocorrência de embolia sistêmica potencialmente fatal. Assim, os endoscopistas estão se aprimorando com novas técnicas, incluindo o uso de coils endoscópico, como uma opção de tratamento potencialmente mais segura e eficaz. No entanto, nenhum estudo foi realizado comparando as duas técnicas. OBJETIVO: Este estudo tem como objetivo comparar a segurança e eficácia da injeção de coil com cianoacrilato guiados por ultrassom endoscópico versus a técnica convencional de injeção de cianoacrilato. DESIGN: Um ensaio piloto controlado aleatoriamente. MÉTODOS: Os pacientes randomizados para o grupo I foram tratados com coil + cianoacrilato e os do grupo II apenas com cianoacrilato. O fluxo dentro da variz foi avaliado imediatamente após a sessão de tratamento e um mês após o tratamento inicial. Se a trombose foi confirmada, o acompanhamento adicional era realizado em 4 e 10 meses após o tratamento inicial. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a uma tomografia computadorizada torácica após o procedimento. RESULTADOS: Um total de 32 pacientes, 16 em cada grupo, foram acompanhados por uma média de 9,9 meses (variação de 1-26 meses). Imediatamente após o procedimento, 6 (37,5%) pacientes do grupo I e 8 (50%) pacientes do grupo II apresentaram redução total do fluxo no vaso tratado (P=0,476). Após 30 dias, 11 (73,3%) pacientes do grupo I e 12 (75%) pacientes do grupo II apresentaram trombose da variz. Em ambos os grupos, a maioria dos pacientes necessitou de apenas uma única sessão para obliteração da variz (73,3% no grupo I versus 80% no grupo II). Embolia pulmonar assintomática ocorreu em 4 (25%) pacientes do grupo I e em 8 (50%) pacientes no grupo II (P=0,144). Nenhuma diferença significativa entre os grupos foi observada. CONCLUSÃO Apesar de não haver diferença estatística entre os dois grupos em relação à incidência de embolia neste estudo piloto, observou-se maior tendência de embolia no grupo tratado pela técnica convencional.

Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection of serrated adenomas.

OBJECTIVES: Serrated polyps, which are considered to be precursors of colorectal carcinoma, include hyperplastic polyps, sessile serrated adenomas and traditional serrated adenomas. With the exception of hyperplastic polyps, all of these lesions must be removed. This study sought to examine whether underwater endoscopic mucosal resection is a safe and effective technique for treating serrated polyps. METHODS: Cases in which patients were submitted for underwater endoscopic mucosal resection and histologically diagnosed with sessile serrated adenoma were prospectively registered. RESULTS: The median patient age was 54.5 years (range, 48 to 72 years), and the patients included 4 men (28.5%) and 10 women (71.5%). One lesion (6.2%), 10 lesions (62.5%), 1 lesion (6.2%), 3 lesions (18.8%) and 1 lesion (6.2%) were found in the cecum, the ascending colon, the hepatic flexure, the transverse colon and the descending colon, respectively. The median lesion size was 20 mm (range, 10 to 35 mm). Eight lesions (50%) were removed en bloc, and the remaining eight lesions (50%) were removed using a piecemeal technique. None of the cases were complicated by perforation or delayed bleeding. CONCLUSION: Underwater resection could be a feasible, safe and effective alternative for the resection of sessile serrated adenomas.

A comparison of the efficiency of 22G versus 25G needles in EUS-FNA for solid pancreatic mass assessment: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Our aim in this study was to compare the efficiency of 25G versus 22G needles in diagnosing solid pancreatic lesions by EUS-FNA. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis. Studies were identified in five databases using an extensive search strategy. Only randomized trials comparing 22G and 25G needles were included. The results were analyzed by fixed and random effects. A total of 504 studies were found in the search, among which 4 randomized studies were selected for inclusion in the analysis. A total of 462 patients were evaluated (233: 25G needle/229: 22G needle). The diagnostic sensitivity was 93% for the 25G needle and 91% for the 22G needle. The specificity of the 25G needle was 87%, and that of the 22G needle was 83%. The positive likelihood ratio was 4.57 for the 25G needle and 4.26 for the 22G needle. The area under the sROC curve for the 25G needle was 0.9705, and it was 0.9795 for the 22G needle, with no statistically significant difference between them (p=0.497). Based on randomized studies, this meta-analysis did not demonstrate a significant difference between the 22G and 25G needles used during EUS-FNA in the diagnosis of solid pancreatic lesions.

Video capsule endoscopy vs double-balloon enteroscopy in the diagnosis of small bowel bleeding: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIM: To compare the diagnostic accuracy of video capsule endoscopy (VCE) and double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) in cases of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB) of vascular origin. METHODS: MEDLINE (via PubMed), LILACS (via BVS) and Cochrane/CENTRAL virtual databases were searched for studies dated before 2017. We identified prospective and retrospective studies, including observational, cohort, single-blinded and multicenter studies, comparing VCE and DBE for the diagnosis of OGIB, and data of all the vascular sources of bleeding were collected. All patients were subjected to the same gold standard method. Relevant data were then extracted from each included study using a standardized extraction form. We calculated study variables (sensitivity, specificity, prevalence, positive and negative predictive values and accuracy) and performed a meta-analysis using Meta-Disc software. RESULTS: In the per-patient analysis, 17 studies (1477 lesions) were included. We identified 3150 exams (1722 VCE and 1428 DBE) in 2043 patients and identified 2248 sources of bleeding, 1467 of which were from vascular lesions. Of these lesions, 864 (58.5%) were diagnosed by VCE, and 613 (41.5%) were diagnosed by DBE. The pretest probability for bleeding of vascular origin was 54.34%. The sensitivity of DBE was 84% (95%CI: 0.82-0.86; heterogeneity: 78.00%), and the specificity was 92% (95%CI: 0.89-0.94; heterogeneity: 92.0%). For DBE, the positive likelihood ratio was 11.29 (95%CI: 4.83-26.40; heterogeneity: 91.6%), and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.20 (95%CI: 0.15-0.27; heterogeneity: 67.3%). Performing DBE after CE increased the diagnostic yield of vascular lesion by 7%, from 83% to 90%. CONCLUSION: The diagnostic accuracy of detecting small bowel bleeding from a vascular source is increased with the use of an isolated video capsule endoscope compared with isolated DBE. However, concomitant use increases the detection rate of the bleeding source.

Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection of serrated adenomas

OBJECTIVES: Serrated polyps, which are considered to be precursors of colorectal carcinoma, include hyperplastic polyps, sessile serrated adenomas and traditional serrated adenomas. With the exception of hyperplastic polyps, all of these lesions must be removed. This study sought to examine whether underwater endoscopic mucosal resection is a safe and effective technique for treating serrated polyps. METHODS: Cases in which patients were submitted for underwater endoscopic mucosal resection and histologically diagnosed with sessile serrated adenoma were prospectively registered. RESULTS: The median patient age was 54.5 years (range, 48 to 72 years), and the patients included 4 men (28.5%) and 10 women (71.5%). One lesion (6.2%), 10 lesions (62.5%), 1 lesion (6.2%), 3 lesions (18.8%) and 1 lesion (6.2%) were found in the cecum, the ascending colon, the hepatic flexure, the transverse colon and the descending colon, respectively. The median lesion size was 20 mm (range, 10 to 35 mm). Eight lesions (50%) were removed en bloc, and the remaining eight lesions (50%) were removed using a piecemeal technique. None of the cases were complicated by perforation or delayed bleeding. CONCLUSION: Underwater resection could be a feasible, safe and effective alternative for the resection of sessile serrated adenomas.

A comparison of the efficiency of 22G versus 25G needles in EUS-FNA for solid pancreatic mass assessment: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Our aim in this study was to compare the efficiency of 25G versus 22G needles in diagnosing solid pancreatic lesions by EUS-FNA. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis. Studies were identified in five databases using an extensive search strategy. Only randomized trials comparing 22G and 25G needles were included. The results were analyzed by fixed and random effects. A total of 504 studies were found in the search, among which 4 randomized studies were selected for inclusion in the analysis. A total of 462 patients were evaluated (233: 25G needle/229: 22G needle). The diagnostic sensitivity was 93% for the 25G needle and 91% for the 22G needle. The specificity of the 25G needle was 87%, and that of the 22G needle was 83%. The positive likelihood ratio was 4.57 for the 25G needle and 4.26 for the 22G needle. The area under the sROC curve for the 25G needle was 0.9705, and it was 0.9795 for the 22G needle, with no statistically significant difference between them (p=0.497). Based on randomized studies, this meta-analysis did not demonstrate a significant difference between the 22G and 25G needles used during EUS-FNA in the diagnosis of solid pancreatic lesions.

Role of EUS evaluation after endoscopic eradication of esophageal varices with band ligation.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Variceal recurrence after endoscopic band ligation (EBL) for secondary prophylaxis is a frequent event. Some studies have reported a correlation between variceal recurrence and variceal rebleeding with the EUS features of paraesophageal vessels. A prospective observational study was conducted to correlate EUS evaluation of paraesophageal varices, azygos vein, and thoracic duct with variceal recurrence after EBL variceal eradication in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS: EUS was performed before and 1 month after EBL variceal eradication. Paraesophageal varices, azygos vein, and thoracic duct maximum diameters were evaluated in predetermined anatomic stations. After EBL variceal eradication, patients were submitted to endoscopic examinations every 3 months for 1 year. We looked for EUS features that could predict variceal recurrence. RESULTS: Thirty patients completed a 1-year endoscopic follow-up. Seventeen patients (57%) presented variceal recurrence. There was no correlation between azygos vein and thoracic duct diameter with variceal recurrence. Larger paraesophageal varices predicted variceal recurrence in both evaluation periods. Paraesophageal varices diameters that best correlated with variceal recurrence were 6.3 mm before EBL (52.9% sensitivity, 92.3% specificity, and .749 area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUROC]) and 4 mm after EBL (70.6% sensitivity, 84.6% specificity, and .801 AUROC). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that paraesophageal varices diameter measured by EUS predicts variceal recurrence within 1 year after EBL variceal eradication. Paraesophageal diameter after variceal eradication is a better recurrence predictor, because it has a lower cut-off parameter, higher sensitivity, and higher AUROC.

Endoscopic versus surgical treatment of ampullary adenomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The aim of this study is to address the outcomes of endoscopic resection compared with surgery in the treatment of ampullary adenomas. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations. For this purpose, the Medline, Embase, Cochrane, Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), Scopus and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases were scanned. Studies included patients with ampullary adenomas and data considering endoscopic treatment compared with surgery. The entire analysis was based on a fixed-effects model. Five retrospective cohort studies were selected (466 patients). All five studies (466 patients) had complete primary resection data available and showed a difference that favored surgical treatment (risk difference [RD] = -0.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.44 to -0.04). Primary success data were identified in all five studies as well. Analysis showed that the surgical approach outperformed endoscopic treatment for this outcome (RD = -0.37, 95% CI = -0.50 to -0.24). Recurrence data were found in all studies (466 patients), with a benefit indicated for surgical treatment (RD = 0.10, 95% CI = -0.01 to 0.19). Three studies (252 patients) presented complication data, but analysis showed no difference between the approaches for this parameter (RD = -0.15, 95% CI = -0.53 to 0.23). Considering complete primary resection, primary success and recurrence outcomes, the surgical approach achieves significantly better results. Regarding complication data, this systematic review concludes that rates are not significantly different.

Endoscopic versus surgical treatment of ampullary adenomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study is to address the outcomes of endoscopic resection compared with surgery in the treatment of ampullary adenomas. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations. For this purpose, the Medline, Embase, Cochrane, Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), Scopus and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases were scanned. Studies included patients with ampullary adenomas and data considering endoscopic treatment compared with surgery. The entire analysis was based on a fixed-effects model. Five retrospective cohort studies were selected (466 patients). All five studies (466 patients) had complete primary resection data available and showed a difference that favored surgical treatment (risk difference [RD] = -0.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.44 to -0.04). Primary success data were identified in all five studies as well. Analysis showed that the surgical approach outperformed endoscopic treatment for this outcome (RD = -0.37, 95% CI = -0.50 to -0.24). Recurrence data were found in all studies (466 patients), with a benefit indicated for surgical treatment (RD = 0.10, 95% CI = -0.01 to 0.19). Three studies (252 patients) presented complication data, but analysis showed no difference between the approaches for this parameter (RD = -0.15, 95% CI = -0.53 to 0.23). Considering complete primary resection, primary success and recurrence outcomes, the surgical approach achieves significantly better results. Regarding complication data, this systematic review concludes that rates are not significantly different.

Underwater endoscopic resection: an alternative for difficult colorectal polyps.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Underwater endoscopic resection can be an alternative to standard resection techniques to remove difficult colorectal polyps. This video shows 4 cases of underwater resection of large colorectal polyps. METHODS: Underwater resection consists of complete filling of the lumen through the accessory channel, using an infusion pump followed by snare resection of the polyp. We present 4 cases: a 3-cm pseudodepressed laterally spreading tumor (LST) in the sigmoid colon, a 6-cm pedunculated polyp with a thick stalk in the sigmoid, a 7-cm sessile lesion in the midrectum, and a 4-cm LST in the distal rectum close to the dentate line, resected with a monofilament snare or a multifilament snare. RESULTS: All tumors were successfully resected without any adverse events or residual lesions during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The underwater technique is a good alternative to standard resection techniques to remove difficult colorectal lesions.

Brazilian society of hepatology recommendations for the diagnosis and management of autoimmune diseases of the liver

ABSTRACT In order to draw evidence-based recommendations concerning the management of autoimmune diseases of the liver, the Brazilian Society of Hepatology has sponsored a single-topic meeting in October 18th, 2014 at São Paulo. An organizing committee comprised of seven investigators was previously elected by the Governing Board to organize the scientific agenda as well as to select twenty panelists to make a systematic review of the literature and to present topics related to the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cirrhosis and their overlap syndromes. After the meeting, all panelists gathered together for the discussion of the topics and the elaboration of those recommendations. The text was subsequently submitted for suggestions and approval of all members of the Brazilian Society of Hepatology through its homepage. The present paper is the final version of the reviewed manuscript organized in topics, followed by the recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Hepatology.

RESUMO Para definir as recomendações baseadas em evidências científicas sobre o diagnóstico e tratamento das doenças autoimnus do fígado, a Sociedade Brasileira de Hepatologia organizou em Outubro de 2014, encontro monotemático em São Paulo. Um Comitê organizador de sete investigadores foi selecionado pela Diretoria da Sociedade para organizar a agenda científica, assim como para selecionar vinte debatedores para fazer uma revisão sistemática e apresentar tópicos relacionados à hepatite autoimune, colangite esclerosante primária, cirrose biliar primária e suas síndromes de superposição (overlap). O texto inicial do submetidoo a apreciação e aprovação da Sociedade Brasileira de Hepatologia através de consulta a todos associados através da home page da Sociedade, O trabalho apresentado representa a versão final do trabalho original, devidamente revisado e organizado em tópicos, segundo as recomendações da Sociedade Brasileira de Hepatologia.

ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND IN THE EVALUATION OF UPPER SUBEPITHELIAL LESIONS.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic ultrasound is considered the best imaging test for the diagnosis and evaluation of subepithelial lesions of the gastrointestinal tract. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to describe the endosonographic characteristics of upper gastric subepithelial lesions and our experience using endoscopic ultrasound for evaluation of such lesions. METHODS: Retrospective data study of 342 patients who underwent endoscopic ultrasound evaluation of subepithelial lesions. RESULTS: Lesions of the fourth layer were more common in the stomach (63.72%) than in the esophagus (44.68%) and duodenum (29.03%). In stomach, 81.1% of the lesions ≥2 cm, and 96.5% ≥3 cm, were from the fourth layer. Endosonographic signs that could be related to malignant behavior, such as irregular borders, echogenic foci, cystic spaces and/or size greater than 3 cm were identified in 34 (15.81%) lesions at the first endoscopic ultrasound evaluation. Endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration did the diagnosis in 21 (61.76%) patients who were submitted a puncture. Three (12.0%) lesions of 25 who were submitted to regular endoscopic ultrasound surveillance increased the size. CONCLUSION: Stomach is the organ most affected with subepithelial lesions of the gastrointestinal tract and the fourth layer was the most common layer of origin. More than 80% of gastric subepithelial lesions from the fourth layer are ≥2 cm. Endoscopic ultrasound evaluation of subepithelial lesions has been very important for stratification into risk groups and to determine the best management.