Identifying the best cutoff value of the fecal occult blood immunochemical test in the detection of advanced and neoplastic colorectal lesions.

Objective: Screening is an effective tool for detecting colorectal lesions in asymptomatic subjects. There is a positive correlation between fecal immunochemical test (FIT) values and the size of tumors. Despite the efficacy of screening, the detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains low. The primary objective was to evaluate the best FIT cutoff value for detecting advanced adenomas and CRC among individuals at average risk in a country with a high incidence and morbidity from CRC. Methods: This observational and prospective study analyzed consecutive cases in 1461 asymptomatic subjects with a positive FIT (≥ 100 ng hemoglobin [Hb]/mL) referred for colonoscopy (2012-2015) at a tertiary center in Uruguay. Results: Colorectal lesions were detected in 35.3% (516/1461) of cases, with a mean age of 62.8 ± 8.3 years. About 53.2% were men and 65.1% of the tumors were located in the left side of the colon. The size of the lesion and FIT values (p = 0.001) were positively correlated. Laterally spreading tumors predominated in the right colon (586 ng Hb/mL; 95% Confidence interval [CI] 443.4-760). One hundred and thirty-five (26%) lesions were advanced adenomas (15 ± 6.7 mm); 694.6 ng/mL; 95% CI 632.4-756.9). The highest diagnostic yield (0.5112) for advanced adenomas was at a FIT level of 400 ng Hb/mL (accuracy 88.6%). There were significant differences in FIT values early and advanced CRC (927 ng/mL; [95% CI: 637-1082] vs. 1453 [95% CI: 1352-1594; p = 0.001]). Conclusion: A FIT value of 400 ng Hb/mL was the best diagnostic yield to detect advanced adenomas and CRC. This value is useful during the COVID-19 pandemic as it allows prioritization of colonoscopy to those most at risk of significant disease, thus reducing risks to both patients and healthcare workers.

Objetivo: El cribado es una herramienta eficaz para detectar lesiones colorrectales en sujetos asintomáticos. Existe una correlación positiva entre los valores de la prueba inmunoquímica fecal (FIT) y el tamaño de los tumores. A pesar de la eficacia del cribado, la detección del cáncer colorrectal (CCR) sigue siendo baja. El objetivo principal fue evaluar el mejor valor de corte FIT para detectar adenomas avanzados y CCR entre personas con riesgo promedio en un país con alta incidencia y morbilidad por CCR. Métodos: Este estudio observacional y prospectivo analizó 1461 sujetos asintomáticos con FIT positivo (≥ 100 ng de hemoglobina [Hb]/mL) remitidos para colonoscopia (2012-2015) en un centro terciario en Uruguay. Resultados: Se detectaron lesiones colorrectales en el 35,3% (516/1461) de los casos, con una edad media de 62,8 ± 8,3 años. Alrededor del 53,2% eran hombres y el 65,1% de los tumores estaban ubicados en el lado izquierdo del colon. El tamaño de la lesión y los valores FIT (p = 0,001) se correlacionaron positivamente. Los tumores con extensión lateral predominaron en el colon derecho (586 ng Hb/mL; intervalo de confianza [IC] del 95%: 443,4-760). Ciento treinta y cinco (26%) lesiones fueron adenomas avanzados (15 ± 6,7 mm); 694,6 ng/ml; IC 95% 632,4-756,9). El rendimiento diagnóstico más alto (0,5112) para los adenomas avanzados se obtuvo con un nivel FIT de 400 ng Hb/ml (precisión del 88,6%). Hubo diferencias significativas en los valores de FIT de CCR temprano y avanzado (927 ng/mL; [IC 95%: 637-1082] vs. 1453 [IC 95%: 1352-1594; p = 0,001]). Conclusión: Un valor FIT de 400 ng Hb/mL fue el mejor rendimiento diagnóstico para detectar adenomas avanzados y CCR. Este valor es útil durante la pandemia de COVID-19, ya que permite priorizar la colonoscopia a aquellos con mayor riesgo de padecer una enfermedad importante, reduciendo así los riesgos tanto para los pacientes como para los trabajadores de la salud.

Inteligencia artificial en la colonoscopia de tamizaje y la disminución del error.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to change many aspects of healthcare practice. Image discrimination and classification has many applications within medicine. Machine learning algorithms and complicated neural networks have been developed to train a computer to differentiate between normal and abnormal areas. Machine learning is a form of AI that allows the platform to improve without being programmed. Computer Assisted Diagnosis (CAD) is based on latency, which is the time between the captured image and when it is displayed on the screen. AI-assisted endoscopy can increase the detection rate by identifying missed lesions. An AI CAD system must be responsive, specific, with easy-to-use interfaces, and provide fast results without substantially prolonging procedures. AI has the potential to help both, trained and trainee endoscopists. Rather than being a substitute for high-quality technique, it should serve as a complement to good practice. AI has been evaluated in three clinical scenarios in colonic neoplasms: the detection of polyps, their characterization (adenomatous vs. non-adenomatous) and the prediction of invasive cancer within a polypoid lesion.

La inteligencia artificial (IA) tiene el potencial de cambiar muchos aspectos de la práctica sanitaria. La discriminación y la clasificación de imágenes tiene muchas aplicaciones dentro de la medicina. Se han desarrollado algoritmos de aprendizaje automático y redes neuronales complicadas para entrenar a una computadora a diferenciar las áreas normales de las anormales. El aprendizaje automático es una forma de IA que permite que la plataforma mejore sin ser programada. El diagnóstico asistido por computadora (CAD) se basa en latencia, que es el tiempo entre la imagen capturada y cuando es mostrada en la pantalla. La endoscopia asistida por IA puede incrementar la tasa de detección al identificar lesiones obviadas. Un sistema CAD de IA debe ser sensible, específico, con interfaces fáciles de usar, y proporcionar resultados rápidos sin prolongar sustancialmente los procedimientos. La IA tiene el potencial de ayudar tanto a endoscopistas entrenados como a los que están en entrenamiento. En vez de ser un sustituto para una técnica de alta calidad, deberá servir como un complemento de las buenas prácticas. La IA ha sido evaluada en tres escenarios clínicos en las neoplasias colónicas: la detección de pólipos, su caracterización (adenomatosos vs. no adenomatosos) y la predicción de cáncer invasor dentro de una lesión polipoide.

Escrutinio para el cáncer de colon: ¿cuál fue el impacto en los primeros 2 años de la pandemia de COVID-19? Experiencia en una clínica privada ambulatoria.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs. OBJECTIVE: The care strategy was modified throughout the pandemic, this paper evaluates its impact and short-term consequences. METHODS: A retrospective, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in a private ambulatory endoscopic center, in average risk subjects. The study compared two periods: pre-pandemic and pandemic (subdivided into pre-vaccination and vaccination). RESULTS: During this period, 54.4% of scheduled colonoscopies were due to the screening program. The average age was 60.4 ± 7 years. Women were 52.0%. The overall cancellation rate was 41.1%, higher during pre-vaccination period. There were no differences in the degree of colonic cleansing, colonoscope exit time, and patient satisfaction. The adenoma detection rate (38.4% vs. 42.8% vs. 36.4%; p = 0.8) and the total number of adenomas (p = 0.02) was statistically significant during the pre-vaccination period. The rate of adenoma/patient showed a higher trend during this period (p = 0.06). The number of colorectal cancers was 10, without differences between periods. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the impact of the decrease in screening colonoscopy procedures for CRC detection was similar to what was seen worldwide. In this period no increase in cancer cases, although this effect may be observed in the long term.

ANTECEDENTES: La pandemia de COVID-19 tuvo un impacto negativo en el programa de detección del cáncer colorrectal (CCR). OBJETIVO: La estrategia de atención cambió y se evaluó su impacto a corto plazo. MÉTODO: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo y transversal, en un centro endoscópico ambulatorio privado, en sujetos con riesgo promedio de CCR. El estudio comparó dos períodos: prepandemia y pandemia (subdividido en prevacunación y vacunación). RESULTADOS: El 54.4% de las colonoscopias fueron por escrutinio. La edad promedio fue de 60.4 ± 7 años. El 52.0% fueron mujeres. La tasa de cancelaciones fue del 41.1%, siendo mayor durante el período prevacunación. No hubo diferencias en el grado de limpieza colónica, el tiempo de salida ni la satisfacción del paciente. La tasa de detección de adenomas (38.4% vs. 42.8% vs. 36.4%; p = 0.8) y el número total de adenomas (p = 0.02) tuvieron una significancia en el período prevacunación. El índice adenoma/paciente fue mayor durante este período (p = 0.06). El número de CCR fue de 10 (1.9%), sin diferencias entre los períodos. CONCLUSIÓN: Se concluye que la repercusión por la disminución en los procedimientos de escrutinio fue similar a lo visto en todo el mundo y no se encontró un aumento de los casos de cáncer, aunque este efecto podrá observarse a largo plazo.

Gastric variceal bleeding treated through endoscopic ultrasound-guided coiling and N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate application.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate efficacy and safety between dual angiotherapy (endocoil plus N-butyl-cyanoacrylate) guided by endoscopic ultrasound) versus N-butyl-cyanoacrylate in the secondary prophylaxis of gastroesophageal varices (GOV). METHOD: Prospective non-inferiority study comparing two gastric variceal eradication techniques. We evaluated technical and clinical success, GOV occlusion and eradication, rebleeding, reoperation, GOV-free period, complications, and mortality. Chi square for categorical variables and Student's t for numerical variables with a significance level of 0.05. RESULTS: There were 68 patients (average age 55.5 ± 10 years, women 44 (64.7%) and average body mass index 25.7 ± 3.5 kg/m2). The most frequent cause was alcoholic steatohepatitis (58%). Dual therapy had greater technical (100% vs. 94.3%) and clinical (100% vs. 85%) success. Obliteration was faster (100 vs. 79.2%). This group only required one session. The GOV size was 24 ± 14 mm and 1-2 endocoils were placed. The median follow-up was 221 days. The reoperation-free rate was high (100% vs. 94%; p = 0.9). CONCLUSIONS: Dual angiotherapy guided by endoscopic ultrasound and cyanoacrylate injection are effective for the eradication of GOV without differences in adverse event rates.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la eficacia y la seguridad de la angioterapia dual (endo-coil más N-butil-cianoacrilato) guiada por ultrasonido endoscópico) frente a N-butil-cianoacrilato solo en la profilaxis secundaria de várices gásctricas. MÉTODO: Estudio prospectivo de no inferioridad comparando dos técnicas de erradicación de várices gástricas. Se evalúan el éxito técnico y clínico, la oclusión y la erradicación de GOV, el resangrado, la reintervención, el período libre de GOV, las complicaciones y la mortalidad. Análisis estadístico mediante prueba de χ2 para variables categóricas y t de Student para las numéricas, con nivel de significancia de 0.05. RESULTADOS: Fueron 68 pacientes (edad promedio 55.5 ± 10 años, mujeres 44 (64.7%) e índice de masa corporal promedio 25.7 ± 3.5 kg/m2). La causa más frecuente fue esteatohepatitis alcohólica (58%). La terapia dual tuvo mayor éxito técnico (100% vs. 94.3%) y clínico (100% vs. 85%), y la obliteración fue más rápida (100 vs. 79.2%); este grupo solo requirió una sesión. El tamaño de las GOV fue de 24 ± 14 mm y se colocaron uno o dos endo-coils. La mediana de seguimiento fue de 221 días. La tasa de libres de reintervención fue alta (100% vs. 94%; p = 0.9). CONCLUSIONES: La angioterapia dual guiada por ultrasonido y la inyección de cianoacrilato son efectivas para la erradicación de las GOV, sin diferencias en las tasas de eventos adversos.

Usefulness of optical enhancement endoscopy combined with magnification to improve detection of intestinal metaplasia in the stomach.

Background and study aims The light blue crest observed in narrow band imaging endoscopy has high diagnostic accuracy for diagnosis of gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM). The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of magnifying i-scan optical enhancement (OE) imaging for diagnosing the LBC sign in patients with different levels of risk for gastric cancer in a Mexican clinical practice. Patients and methods Patients with a history of peptic ulcer and symptoms of dyspepsia or gastroesophageal reflux disease were enrolled. Diagnosis of GIM was made at the predetermined anatomical location and white light endoscopy and i-scan OE Mode 1 were captured at the two predetermined biopsy sites (antrum and pyloric regions). Results A total of 328 patients were enrolled in this study. Overall GIM prevalence was 33.8 %. The GIM distribution was 95.4 % in the antrum and 40.5 % in the corpus. According to the Operative Link on Gastritis/Intestinal-Metaplasia Assessment staging system, only two patients (1.9 %) were classified with high-risk stage disease. Sensitivity, specificity, positive​ and negative predictive values, positive and negative likelihood ratios, and accuracy of both methods (95 % C. I.) were 0.50 (0.41-0.60), 0.55 (0.48-0.62), 0.36 (0.31-0.42), 0.68 (0.63-0.73), 1.12 (0.9-1.4), 0.9 (0.7-1.1), and 0.53 (0.43-0.60) for WLE, and 0.96 (0.90-0.99), 0.91 (0.86-0.94), 0.84 (0.78-0.89), 0.98 (0.94-0.99), 10.4 (6.8-16), 0.05 (0.02-0.12), and 0.93 (0.89-0.95), respectively. The kappa concordance was 0.67 and the reliability coefficient was 0.7407 for interobserver variability. Conclusions Our study demonstrated the high performance of magnifying i-scan OE imaging for endoscopic diagnosis of GIM in Mexican patients.

Rio de Janeiro Global Consensus on Landmarks, Definitions, and Classifications in Barrett's Esophagus: World Endoscopy Organization Delphi Study.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Despite the significant advances made in the diagnosis and treatment of Barrett's esophagus (BE), there is still a need for standardized definitions, appropriate recognition of endoscopic landmarks, and consistent use of classification systems. Current controversies in basic definitions of BE and the relative lack of anatomic knowledge are significant barriers to uniform documentation. We aimed to provide consensus-driven recommendations for uniform reporting and global application. METHODS: The World Endoscopy Organization Barrett's Esophagus Committee appointed leaders to develop an evidence-based Delphi study. A working group of 6 members identified and formulated 23 statements, and 30 internationally recognized experts from 18 countries participated in 3 rounds of voting. We defined consensus as agreement by ≥80% of experts for each statement and used the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) tool to assess the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendations. RESULTS: After 3 rounds of voting, experts achieved consensus on 6 endoscopic landmarks (palisade vessels, gastroesophageal junction, squamocolumnar junction, lesion location, extraluminal compressions, and quadrant orientation), 13 definitions (BE, hiatus hernia, squamous islands, columnar islands, Barrett's endoscopic therapy, endoscopic resection, endoscopic ablation, systematic inspection, complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia, complete eradication of dysplasia, residual disease, recurrent disease, and failure of endoscopic therapy), and 4 classification systems (Prague, Los Angeles, Paris, and Barrett's International NBI Group). In round 1, 18 statements (78%) reached consensus, with 12 (67%) receiving strong agreement from more than half of the experts. In round 2, 4 of the remaining statements (80%) reached consensus, with 1 statement receiving strong agreement from 50% of the experts. In the third round, a consensus was reached on the remaining statement. CONCLUSIONS: We developed evidence-based, consensus-driven statements on endoscopic landmarks, definitions, and classifications of BE. These recommendations may facilitate global uniform reporting in BE.

Las revistas científicas médicas en México / Scientific medical journals in Mexico

Resumen En este simposio se describen las principales características de seis revistas científicas mexicanas reconocidas por el Journal Citation Reports: Archives of Medical Research, Revista de Investigación Clínica-Clinical and Translational Investigation, Gaceta Médica de México, Salud Pública de México, Cirugía y Cirujanos y Salud Mental. Se hace énfasis en sus aspectos históricos y organizacionales, así como en sus logros principales ante la comunidad científica nacional e internacional.

Abstract This symposium describes the main characteristics of six Mexican scientific journals indexed in the Journal Citation Reports: Archives of Medical Research, Revista de Investigación Clínica-Clinical and Translational Investigation, Gaceta Médica de México, Salud Pública de México, Cirugía y Cirujanos and Salud Mental. Particular emphasis is given to their historical and organizational aspects, as on well as their main achievements recognized by the national and international scientific community.

Recomendaciones para procedimientos quirúrgicos durante la pandemia de COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). Liderazgo hacia el retorno a lo electivo.

In late December 2019, COVID-19, a new emerging disease, quickly spread in Wuhan, China. The WHO formally declared it a pandemic and a health emergency on March 11th, 2020. The objective of this article is to specify and list key points in relation to the recommendations issued by the different colleges, and global surgical societies, for the benefit of the Mexican medical and surgical community. Based on scientific evidence, we make recommendations for medical consultations, surgical and endoscopic procedures, hospital infrastructure, and surgical services, in addition to a proposal to reopen surgical services and elective procedures related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The time to take leadership in healthcare where the national health system together with academic societies, universities and private initiative join forces to combat the pandemic has arrived. It is convenient to form collaboration groups of experts in the different specialties that through innovation in health and education, with evidence-based medicine, efficiency of operational costs and tools such as telemedicine, allow us to return to daily surgical procedures, reestablishing the surgery services as soon as possible.

A finales de diciembre de 2019, la COVID-19, una nueva enfermedad emergente, rápidamente se propagó en Wuhan, China. La Organización Mundial de la Salud la declaró formalmente una pandemia y emergencia sanitaria el 11 de marzo de 2020. El objetivo de este artículo es precisar y enumerar los puntos clave en relación a las recomendaciones emitidas por los distintos colegios, y sociedades quirúrgicas globales, para beneficio de la comunidad médica y quirúrgica mexicana. De acuerdo con la evidencia científica, se realizan recomendaciones para las consultas médicas, los procedimientos quirúrgicos y endoscópicos, la infraestructura hospitalaria y los servicios de cirugía, además de una propuesta a la reapertura para procedimientos quirúrgicos en torno a la pandemia de COVID-19. El momento de tomar el liderazgo en salud en el que el sistema nacional de salud y las sociedades académicas, las universidades y la iniciativa privada sumen esfuerzos para combatir la pandemia ha llegado. Es conveniente formar grupos de colaboración de expertos en las distintas especialidades que, por medio de innovación en salud y educación, apego a la medicina basada en la evidencia, eficiencia de costos operacionales y herramientas como la telemedicina, permitan regresar a los procedimientos quirúrgicos cotidianos y la operación de los servicios de cirugía se reestablezca a la brevedad.

El daño colateral de la atención de la pandemia de COVID-19.

Throughout history, pandemics have had a major impact on humanity. The measures used to combat them cause collateral damage. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the actions taken to reduce the exposure, the number of infections, and the case fatality rate focus on reducing mortality, however, the collapse of the health system can cause an even greater number of deaths. At the same time, both medical personnel and patients are affected by the economic slowdown and the "effect of negativity". In this review article the different tools available for pandemic control, their development in a historical context, and how they may impact risk stratification for vulnerable patients (elderly, patients with chronic degenerative and oncological diseases) were analyzed.

A lo largo de la historia, las pandemias han tenido un gran impacto para la humanidad. Las medidas utilizadas para combatirlas causan daño colateral. En la pandemia por COVID-19, las acciones generadas para disminuir la exposición, el número de contagios y la tasa de letalidad conllevan un enfoque en la reducción de la mortalidad, sin embargo el colapso del sistema de salud puede provocar un número aún mayor de muertos. A su vez, tanto el personal médico como los pacientes se ven afectados por la desaceleración económica y el "efecto de la negatividad". En este artículo de revisión se analizaron las diferentes herramientas para el control de la pandemia, su desarrollo en un contexto histórico y como impactan en la estratificación del riesgo para pacientes vulnerables (ancianos, pacientes con enfermedades crónico degenerativas y oncológicos).

Results of the fecal immunochemical test in a colorectal cancer screening program in Mexico.

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the main five causes of morbidity and mortality by oncologic diseases in our country and worldwide. Recently, fecal immunochemical test (FIT) has proven to be a noninvasive screening test that allows to select patients most likely to have a pre-malign lesion in order to perform a colonoscopy. OBJECTIVE: To report the findings of a CRC screening program using FIT in our country population. METHOD: A multicentric study was performed, by inviting open population older than 50 years to participate in a CRC screening. Quantitative FIT specific for human hemoglobin was used, with a cut point of 100 ng/ml or higher to consider as positive. Those patients with positive results were asked to undergo a colonoscopy. In the cases where polypoid lesions were found, biopsies were performed. RESULTS: In total, 751 FIT were processed, and 51 (6.8) of those were positive, with a rate of 15.9 premalign lesions for 1,000 individuals, and 1.3 patients with CRC for every 1,000. CONCLUSIONS: The present study matches worldwide reports, supporting the initiative of establishing a formal and standardized CRC screening program in the public health sector.

ANTECEDENTES: El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es una de las cinco primeras causas de morbimortalidad por cáncer en nuestro país y en todo el mundo. La prueba inmunoquímica fecal (FIT, fecal immunochemical test) es una herramienta de tamizaje no invasiva que permite seleccionar a los sujetos con mayor probabilidad de lesión premaligna en la colonoscopia. OBJETIVO: Reportar los resultados del programa de escrutinio para CCR mediante FIT en población abierta en México. MÉTODO: Estudio multicéntrico nacional en población abierta mayor de 50 años a través de medios de difusión masiva para participar en un programa de escrutinio de CCR. Se utilizó FIT cuantitativa específica para detectar hemoglobina humana con un punto de corte de 100 ng/ml (prueba positiva). Se realizó colonoscopia a los positivos. Se tomaron biopsias dirigidas de las lesiones premalignas/cáncer para análisis histopatológico. RESULTADOS: Se procesaron 751 FIT, de las cuales 51 (6.8%) fueron positivas, con una tasa de 15.9 lesiones premalignas por cada 1,000 sujetos evaluados, y 1.3 pacientes con CCR por cada 1,000 pacientes. CONCLUSIONES: Nuestro estudio concuerda con lo reportado en la literatura mundial, apoyando así la iniciativa de fomentar el establecimiento de un tamizaje formal y estandarizado dentro del sector de salud pública.

Experimental model standardizing polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel to simulate endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic ultrasound-elastography.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic ultrasound elastography (EUS-E) simulation lessens the learning curve; however, models lack realism, diminishing competitiveness. AIM: To standardize the mechanical properties of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel for simulating organs and digestive lesions. METHODS: PVA hydrogel (Sigma Aldrich, degree of hydrolysis 99%) for simulating EUS/EUS-E lesions was investigated in Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico at Hospital General de México "Dr. Eduardo Liceaga", Mexico City. We evaluated physical, contrast, elasticity and deformation coefficient characteristics in lesions, applying Kappa's concordance and satisfaction questionnaire (Likert 4-points). RESULTS: PVA hydrogel showed stable mechanical properties. Density depended on molecular weight (MW) and concentration (C). PVA bblocks with the greatest density showed lowest tensile strength (r = -0.8, P = 0.01). Lesions were EUS-graphically visible. Homogeneous and heterogeneous examples were created from PVA blocks or PVA phantoms, exceeding (MW2 = 146000-186000, C9 = 15% and C10 = 20%) with a density under (MW1 = 85000-124000, C1 = 7% and C2 = 9%). We calculated elasticity and deformation parameters of solid (blue) areas, contrasting with the norm (Kappa = 0.8; high degree of satisfaction). CONCLUSION: PVA hydrogels were appropriate for simulating organs and digestive lesions using EUS/EUS-E, facilitating practice and reducing risk. Repetition amplified skills, while reducing the learning curve.

Evaluation of the satisfaction of the patient undergoing screening colonoscopy and quality of the procedure.

BACKGROUND: Screening colonoscopy requires quality parameters to determine its efficacy to detect cancerous or precancerous lesions. Limitations of the procedure are the patient's rejection, difficulty for its preparation or lack of preparation. OBJECTIVE: To assess whether patient satisfaction correlates with the quality of the procedure. METHOD: 100 consecutive patients for a screening colonoscopy were included, they were randomized to use a preparation with polyethylene glycol (PEG) or sodium picosulfate (P). In addition, a second parameter evaluated was related to a follow-up phone call performed to half of the patients prior to the study, during the preparation time. RESULTS: P was better tolerated and qualified, however, there was no difference with the quality of preparation, adenomatous polyps detection rate, cecum insertion rate and patient satisfaction. A difference was found in whom had a follow-up phone call. DISCUSSION: A good colon preparation is a key factor to have a quality colonoscopy, and it has been shown important that a good relationship for explain the doubts and follow the preparation. CONCLUSION: It was found that the type of preparation and patient follow-up during the study correlate with the quality of the study and patient satisfaction.

ANTECEDENTES: La colonoscopia de escrutinio requiere parámetros de calificación para determinar su eficiencia en la detección de lesiones cancerosas o precancerosas. Sus limitantes son su rechazo, la dificultad durante su preparación o la falta de preparación. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la satisfacción del paciente y los criterios de calidad del estudio. MÉTODO: Se incluyeron 100 pacientes enviados para colonoscopia de escrutinio asignados aleatoriamente a uno de dos grupos de preparación colónica: polietilenglicol (PEG) o picosulfato de sodio (P), para evaluar la satisfacción y la limpieza colónica. Otra evaluación fue por medio de llamada de refuerzo al momento de la preparación. RESULTADOS: Con P se tuvieron mejores tolerabilidad y calificaciones de satisfacción, en comparación con PEG. No hubo diferencia para la calidad de la limpieza, la tasa de detección de pólipos adenomatosos ni la intubación cecal. La llamada telefónica de reforzamiento incrementó la satisfacción, la limpieza colónica y la tasa de detección de adenomas. DISCUSIÓN: Una relación estrecha con el paciente durante su proceso de limpieza y explicación del procedimiento se ha visto como uno de los factores más importantes para lograr una colonoscopia de alta calidad. CONCLUSIÓN: El tipo de preparación colónica y la intervención durante la preparación se relacionaron con una mejor calidad del estudio y una mayor satisfacción del paciente.

Efficacy of the Combination of Pinaverium Bromide 100 mg Plus Simethicone 300 mg in Abdominal Pain and Bloating in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized, Placebo-controlled Trial.

GOALS: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PB+S (pinaverium bromide 100 mg plus simethicone 300 mg) in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). BACKGROUND: IBS is a multifactorial disorder; thus, combination therapy with different mechanisms of action is expected to be useful. PB+S has shown effectiveness in an open-label clinical study in IBS. However, there are no placebo-controlled trials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: IBS-Rome III patients with abdominal pain/discomfort for at least 2 days within the week prior to baseline assessment were included in this 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of PB+S versus placebo, bid. The primary endpoint was overall symptom improvement, evaluated weekly by the patient (Likert Scale). Secondary endpoints included the weekly improvement in the severity of abdominal pain and bloating assessed both by patients (10-cm Visual Analogue Scale) and investigators (Likert Scale); frequency of Bristol Scale stool types (consistency) evaluated by patients and the IBS Quality of Life scores. RESULTS: A total of 285 patients (female: 83%; 36.5±8.9 y old) received at least 1 dose of PB+S (n=140) or placebo (n=145). No difference was observed in overall symptom improvement between the groups (P=0.13). However, PB+S was superior in abdominal pain (effect size: 31%, P=0.038) and bloating (33%, P=0.019). Patients with IBS-C and IBS-M showed the best improvement in the frequency of stool types with PB+S. No differences were observed in IBS Quality of Life scores and adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: PB+S was superior to placebo in improving abdominal pain and bloating in patients with active IBS. The effect on the frequency of stool consistency was particularly significant in IBS-C and IBS-M.

Scientific medical journals in Mexico.

This symposium describes the main characteristics of six Mexican scientific journals indexed in Journal Citation Reports: Archives of Medical Research, Revista de Investigación Clínica-Clinical and Translational Investigation, Gaceta Médica de México, Salud Pública de México, Cirugía y Cirujanos and Salud Mental. Particular emphasis is given to their historical and organizational aspects, as well as to their main achievements recognized by the national and international scientific community.En este simposio se describen las principales características de seis revistas científicas mexicanas reconocidas por el. Journal Citation Reports: Archives of Medical Research, Revista de Investigación Clínica-Clinical and Translational Investigation, Gaceta Médica de México, Salud Pública de México, Cirugía y Cirujanos y Salud Mental. Se hace énfasis en sus aspectos históricos y organizacionales, así como en sus logros principales ante la comunidad científica nacional e internacional.

Acute dysphagia presentation and its association with esophagitis dissecans and concomitant diseases. A diagnostic challenge.

Esophagitis dissecans (ESD) is an uncommon disease that is associated with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), candidiasis and/or drugs. We aim to characterize the clinical, endoscopic and histological damage of the mucosal in subjects with dysphagia, its relation to concomitant entities and the treatment response. This is a retrospective observational study in patients with dysphagia and esophageal mucosal damage We included 23 patients (mean age = 55 years) who had GERD symptoms, dysphagia and/or odynophagia. There were 10, 9 and 4 cases of esophagitis dissecans, desquamative/esfacelante (ESD/ES) and fibrostenotic, respectively. ESD/SE is a rare entity with variable clinical, endoscopic and histological spectrum. The association with GERD was frequent.

La esofagitis disecante (ESD) es una enfermedad rara que puede asociarse a esofagitis eosinofílica, candidiásica o medicamentos. Se analizaron las características clinico-endoscópicas e histopatológicas en sujetos con disfagia de corta evolución asociada a afecciones concurrentes. Estudio observacional de cohorte retrospectiva con disfagia y daño mucoso. Se ingresaron 23 pacientes con edad media de 55 años. Todos tuvieron síntomas de reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE), disfagia y odinofagia. Fueron 10, 9 y 4 casos de ESD, descamativa/esfacelante (ESD/ES) y fibroestenosis, respectivamente. La ESD/SE es una afección rara, con un espectro clínico, endoscópico e histológico variable.

Heritability and genetic correlation between GERD symptoms severity, metabolic syndrome, and inflammation markers in families living in Mexico City.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to estimate the heritability (h2) and genetic correlation (ρG) between GERD symptoms severity, metabolic syndrome components, and inflammation markers in Mexican families. METHODS: Cross-sectional study which included 32 extended families resident in Mexico City. GERD symptoms severity was assessed by the ReQuest in Practice questionnaire. Heritability and genetic correlation were determined using the Sequential Oligogenic Linkage Analysis Routines software. RESULTS: 585 subjects were included, the mean age was 42 (±16.7) years, 57% were women. The heritability of the severity of some GERD symptoms was h2 = 0.27, 0.27, 0.37, and 0.34 (p-value <1.0x10-5) for acidity complaints, lower abdominal complaints, sleep disturbances, and total ReQuest score, respectively. Heritability of metabolic syndrome components ranged from 0.40 for fasting plasma glucose to 0.61 for body mass index and diabetes mellitus. The heritability for fibrinogen and C-reactive protein was 0.64 and 0.38, respectively. Statistically significant genetic correlations were found between acidity complaints and fasting plasma glucose (ρG = 0.40); sleep disturbances and fasting plasma glucose (ρG = 0.36); acidity complaints and diabetes mellitus (ρG = 0.49) and between total ReQuest score and fasting plasma glucose (ρG = 0.43). The rest of metabolic syndrome components did not correlate with GERD symptoms. CONCLUSION: Genetic factors substantially explain the phenotypic variance of the severity of some GERD symptoms, metabolic syndrome components and inflammation markers. Observed genetic correlations suggest that these phenotypes share common genes. These findings suggest conducting further investigation, as the determination of a linkage analysis in order to identify regions of susceptibility for developing of GERD and metabolic syndrome.

Development of a novel and simple ex vivo biologic ERCP training model.

BACKGROUND: Training and teaching of ERCP in biologic models has gained importance over the past decade. However, many existing models are expensive, are not widely available, or rely on live animals. OBJECTIVE: We describe a novel and simple ex vivo, biologic model for hands-on teaching. DESIGN: Ex vivo porcine study. SETTING: Experimental endoscopy unit. METHODS: Experimental study using a custom-made ex vivo biologic ERCP simulation model. This model contains 2 new key concepts: (1) formation of a duodenal sweep by using the porcine stomach and (2) use of multiple neo-papillae for endoscopic sphincterotomy and biliary stent placement. The papilla was re-created with chicken heart, and the bile ducts were built from chicken trachea. Endoscopic sphincterotomy was performed by using a pull-type sphincterotome. Stenting was performed with Amsterdam-type plastic stents and guidewires. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: The following definitions were used to evaluate the model: successful implantation of the neo-papilla, stability of the neo-papilla to the neo-duodenum, successful removal of the neo-papilla, and damage to the model. The following endoscopic endpoints were evaluated: successful cannulation, cannulation time, difficulties in positioning the papilla, quality of the biliary sphincterotomy, and prosthesis placement. Procedure-related adverse events such as perforation were also assessed. RESULTS: Ten neo-papillae were consecutively used in 1 duodenalized stomach. The implantation and removal of the neo-papillae were easily and successfully accomplished in all 10 cases without any damage to the duodenalized stomach. The stability of the neo-papilla on the duodenal sweep was excellent in all cases. Cannulation, biliary sphincterotomy, and stent placement could be successfully performed in 100% of cases. There was no damage and were no technical problems with the model. There were no adverse events during endoscopy (ie, perforations, stent misplacement). LIMITATIONS: Pilot study. CONCLUSION: Although further studies are necessary, this simple, novel ex vivo model appears useful for training in sphincterotomy and bile duct cannulation. Because the neo-papillae are interchangeable, repetitive sphincterotomies and other interventions can be performed using a single porcine model.

Hemostatic effect of oxidized regenerated cellulose in an experimental gastric mucosal resection model.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM: The endoscopic hemostatic therapies currently available do not always result in hemostasis of gastrointestinal bleeding. Oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) mesh is a widely available surgical hemostatic material. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hemostatic efficacy of ORC in experimental gastric hemorrhage after endoscopic resection. METHODS: This was a prospective, two-stage experimental, Phase I, proof-of-concept study. In Stage 1, eight gastric mucosal lesions were created in anticoagulated rabbits and treated with ORC (closed or open pores). In Stage 2, the endoscopic introduction and application of ORC mesh pieces were evaluated in a porcine model of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). RESULTS: In Stage 1, hemostasis was achieved in all lesions. Hemostasis was achieved more rapidly with closed-pore than open-pore ORC (24.5 vs. 66.5 seconds) (P < 0.01). At 24 hours, all lesions showed persistent hemostasis. There were no episodes of rebleeding, complications, or mortality. In Stage 2, the endoscopic introduction of ORC pieces and application with a biopsy forceps were feasible in all ESD lesions. CONCLUSIONS: ORC was an effective hemostatic agent for bleeding lesions following mucosal resection in anticoagulated rabbits. Closed-pore ORC achieved hemostasis faster than open-pore ORC. Endoscopic introduction and release of ORC were feasible.