Comparative efficacy of uncut Roux-en-Y and Billroth II anastomosis in gastrointestinal reconstruction following laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for distal gastric cancer.

This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical efficacy of Uncut Roux-en-Y and Billroth II anastomoses in gastrointestinal reconstruction following laparoscopic D2 radical gastrectomy for distal gastric cancer. The primary objective was to compare the postoperative outcomes, including quality of life and complication rates, between the 2 surgical techniques. One hundred patients diagnosed with distal gastric cancer were enrolled between June 2020 and May 2023. Patients underwent laparoscopic D2 gastrectomy and were categorized into either the Uncut Roux-en-Y or Billroth II anastomosis groups based on the technique used for gastrointestinal reconstruction. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were strictly followed. Surgical parameters, quality of life assessed using the Visick grading index, and postoperative complications were also evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 27.0. The groups were comparable in terms of demographic and baseline clinical parameters. The Uncut Roux-en-Y group had a significantly longer duration of surgery (P < .001). However, there were no statistically significant differences in other surgical parameters. According to the Visick grading index, patients in the Uncut Roux-en-Y group reported a significantly better quality of life than those in the Billroth II group (P < .05). Additionally, Uncut Roux-en-Y was associated with a significantly lower incidence of dumping syndrome and bile reflux (P < .05). Although Uncut Roux-en-Y anastomosis requires longer surgical time, it offers significant advantages in terms of postoperative quality of life and reduced rates of dumping syndrome and bile reflux. Our findings suggest that Uncut Roux-en-Y may be a superior option for gastrointestinal reconstruction after laparoscopic D2 gastrectomy for distal gastric cancer.

Uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

BACKGROUND: Choosing an optimal reconstruction method is pivotal for patients with gastric cancer undergoing distal gastrectomy. The uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction, a variant of the conventional Roux-en-Y approach (or variant of the Billroth II reconstruction), employs uncut devices to occlude the afferent loop of the jejunum. This modification is designed to mitigate postgastrectomy syndrome and enhance long-term functional outcomes. However, the comparative benefits and potential harms of this approach compared to other reconstruction techniques remain a topic of debate. OBJECTIVES: To assess the benefits and harms of uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction after distal gastrectomy in patients with gastric cancer. SEARCH METHODS: We searched CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, WanFang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and clinical trial registries for published and unpublished trials up to November 2023. We also manually reviewed references from relevant systematic reviews identified by our search. We did not impose any language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction versus other reconstructions after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The comparison groups encompassed other reconstructions such as Billroth I, Billroth II (with or without Braun anastomosis), and Roux-en-Y reconstruction. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures. The critical outcomes included health-related quality of life at least six months after surgery, major postoperative complications within 30 days after surgery according to the Clavien-Dindo Classification (grades III to V), anastomotic leakage within 30 days, changes in body weight (kg) at least six months after surgery, and incidence of bile reflux, remnant gastritis, and oesophagitis at least six months after surgery. We used the GRADE approach to evaluate the certainty of the evidence. MAIN RESULTS: We identified eight trials, including 1167 participants, which contributed data to our meta-analyses. These trials were exclusively conducted in East Asian countries, predominantly in China. The studies varied in the types of uncut devices used, ranging from 2- to 6-row linear staplers to suture lines. The follow-up periods for long-term outcomes spanned from 3 months to 42 months, with most studies focusing on a 6- to 12-month range. We rated the certainty of evidence from low to very low. Uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction versus Billroth II reconstruction In the realm of surgical complications, very low-certainty evidence suggests that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction compared with Billroth II reconstruction may make little to no difference to major postoperative complications (risk ratio (RR) 0.98, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.24 to 4.05; I² = 0%; risk difference (RD) 0.00, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.04; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 282 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and incidence of anastomotic leakage (RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.44; I² not applicable; RD -0.00, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.02; I² = 32%; 3 studies, 615 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We are very uncertain about these results. Focusing on long-term outcomes, low- to very low-certainty evidence suggests that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction compared with Billroth II reconstruction may make little to no difference to changes in body weight (mean difference (MD) 0.04 kg, 95% CI -0.84 to 0.92 kg; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 233 participants; low-certainty evidence), may reduce the incidence of bile reflux into the remnant stomach (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.83; RD -0.29, 95% CI -0.43 to -0.16; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 4, 95% CI 3 to 7; 1 study, 141 participants; low-certainty evidence), and may have little or no effect on the incidence of remnant gastritis (RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.01 to 5.06; I2 = 78%; RD -0.15, 95% CI -0.23 to -0.07; I2 = 0%; NNTB 7, 95% CI 5 to 15; 2 studies, 265 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No studies reported on quality of life or the incidence of oesophagitis. Uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction versus Roux-en-Y reconstruction In the realm of surgical complications, very low-certainty evidence suggests that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction compared with Roux-en-Y reconstruction may make little to no difference to major postoperative complications (RR 4.74, 95% CI 0.23 to 97.08; I² not applicable; RD 0.01, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.04; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 256 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and incidence of anastomotic leakage (RR 0.34, 95% CI 0.05 to 2.08; I² = 0%; RD -0.02, 95% CI -0.06 to 0.02; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 213 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We are very uncertain about these results. Focusing on long-term outcomes, very low-certainty evidence suggests that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction compared with Roux-en-Y reconstruction may increase the incidence of bile reflux into the remnant stomach (RR 10.74, 95% CI 3.52 to 32.76; RD 0.57, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.71; NNT for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) 2, 95% CI 2 to 3; 1 study, 108 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and may make little to no difference to the incidence of remnant gastritis (RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.69 to 2.01; I² = 60%; RD 0.03, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.08; I² = 0%; 3 studies, 361 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and incidence of oesophagitis (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.26; I² = 0%; RD -0.02, 95% CI -0.07 to 0.03; I² = 0%; 3 studies, 361 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We are very uncertain about these results. Data were insufficient to assess the impact on quality of life and changes in body weight. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Given the predominance of low- to very low-certainty evidence, this Cochrane review faces challenges in providing definitive clinical guidance. We found the majority of critical outcomes may be comparable between the uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction and other methods, but we are very uncertain about most of these results. Nevertheless, it indicates that uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction may reduce the incidence of bile reflux compared to Billroth-II reconstruction, albeit with low certainty. In contrast, compared to Roux-en-Y reconstruction, uncut Roux-en-Y may increase bile reflux incidence, based on very low-certainty evidence. To strengthen the evidence base, further rigorous and long-term trials are needed. Additionally, these studies should explore variations in surgical procedures, particularly regarding uncut devices and methods to prevent recanalisation. Future research may potentially alter the conclusions of this review.

Age and incidence of occult pancreaticobiliary reflux in patients with benign gallbladder diseases.

BACKGROUND: Occult pancreaticobiliary reflux (OPBR) has a significant correlation with diseases of the gallbladder and biliary system. This study examined the incidence of OPBR by age in patients with benign gallbladder diseases. METHODS: We assessed 475 patients with benign gallbladder diseases who underwent surgery at Shanghai East Hospital from December 2020 to December 2021. Bile samples collected during surgery were tested for amylase. Patients with bile amylase >110 U/L (n = 64) were classified as the OPBR group; the rest (n = 411) as controls. RESULTS: Of the participants, 375 had gallbladder stone (GS), 170 had gallbladder polyp (GP), and 49 had gallbladder adenomyomatosis (GA). The OPBR group was generally older, with OPBR incidence increasing with age, peaking post-45. Rates by age were: 4.9% (<35), 5.2% (35-44), 20.7% (45-54), 22.5% (55-64) and 17.6% (≥65), mainly in GS patients. ROC analysis for predicting OPBR by age yielded an area under the curve of 0.656, optimal cut-off at 45 years. Logistic regression indicated age > 45, GP, male gender, and BMI ≥ 24 kg*m-2 as independent OPBR predictors in GS patients. Based on these variables, a predictive nomogram was constructed, and its effectiveness was validated using the ROC curve, calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA). Further stratification revealed that among GS patients ≤ 45, concurrent GA was an OPBR risk; for > 45, it was GP and male gender. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of OPBR in GS patients is notably influenced by age, with those over 45, especially males without GP, being at heightened risk.

Association between endoscopic evidence of bile reflux and Barrett's esophagus: A large-scale case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Although bile reflux plays an important role in the development of Barrett's esophagus, the relationship between endoscopic findings of bile reflux and Barrett's esophagus remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated whether endoscopic evidence of bile reflux was associated with the presence of Barrett's esophagus. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database comprising consecutive patients who underwent screening esophagogastroduodenoscopy was conducted. Endoscopic evidence of bile reflux was defined as the presence of bile-stained fluid in the gastric fundus. We performed multivariate analysis to identify predictive factors that differed significantly between patients with and without Barrett's esophagus. RESULTS: Of 4021 patients, 922 (23%) had Barrett's esophagus, and 1000 (25%) showed endoscopic findings of bile reflux. Multivariate analysis revealed endoscopic evidence of bile reflux as the strongest independent factor associated with the presence of Barrett's esophagus (odds ratio [OR] 5.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.71-6.76) in relation to the presence of hiatal hernia (OR 3.30, 95% CI 2.70-4.04) and male gender (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.24-1.91). CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic evidence of bile reflux was independently associated with the presence of Barrett's esophagus. This finding might help identify patients at future risk of Barrett's esophagus who could benefit from increased endoscopy surveillance.

Incomplete Intestinal Metaplasia of the Stomach Is more Related to Bile Reflux than Chronic Gastritis.

OBJECTIVE: Incomplete intestinal metaplasia (IIM) of the stomach is associated with higher risk of progression to dysplasia and gastric cancer than complete intestinal metaplasia (CIM). Whether the causative factors underlying IIM are different from those underlying CIM is currently unknown. In a recent study, bile acids were found to induce gastric intestinal metaplasia (IM) in mice by activating STAT3 signaling and accelerated the development of dysplasia. The aim of this study was to determine whether there are differences in associations between IIM and CIM and clinicopathologic features known to be associated with intestinal metaplasia, bile reflux, and activated STAT3. METHODS: Fifty-two consecutive gastric biopsies with IM were examined for the type of metaplasia, presence of inflammation, and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) status. Immunohistochemical staining was performed for phospho-STAT3 (p-STAT3) and evaluated by image analysis. The type of IM was then correlated with relevant clinicopathologic variables and p-STAT3 expression. RESULTS: Seven cases had IIM only, 31 had CIM only, and 14 had both CIM and IIM (CIIM). Significantly fewer cases with IIM had chronic gastritis than either CIM or CIIM (43%, 93%, 79%, respectively, p=0.005). H. pylori was not detected in any of the IIM cases but was positive in 29% of CIM and 29% of CIIM. Fifty-seven percent of patients with IIM had a history of cholecystectomy compared to 25% of those with CIM and 23% of those with CIIM. The mean BMI was 32.3 kg/m2 for patients with IIM compared to 28 kg/m2 for those with CIM and 31.2 kg/m2 for those with CIIM. Median p-STAT3 for biopsies with was IIM was 6.36 compared to 3.54 for CIM and 6.27 for CIIM. Reactive gastropathy was present in 57% of biopsies with IIM, 39% of CIM and 50% of CIIM. CONCLUSION: In contrast to CIM, IIM is significantly less likely to be associated with chronic gastritis. CIIM also tended to be less associated with H. pylori infection and more associated with reactive gastropathy, history of cholecystectomy, higher BMI, and higher median p-STAT3. These results tend to suggest that IIM is probably more likely to be associated with bile reflux than H. pylori-associated gastritis. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.Presented in part at Digestive Disease Week 2023, Chicago, IL, May 6, 2023.

Exploration of gastric carcinogenesis from the relationship between bile acids and intestinal metaplasia and intragastric microorganisms (H. pylori and non-H. pylori).

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent form of cancer, with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection being the most common risk factor. Recent studies have highlighted the role of long-term irritation of the gastric mucosa caused by bile reflux in the development of cancer. Bile acids (BAs), which are a significant component in bile reflux, have the potential to promote gastric carcinogenesis through various mechanisms. These mechanisms include the induction of intestinal metaplasia (IM), inhibition of H. pylori activity, modification of H. pylori colonization, and alteration of the abundance and composition of microorganisms in the stomach. Defining the mechanism of bile acid-induced gastric carcinogenesis could potentially be an effective approach to prevent GC. Hence, this paper aims to review the mechanism of bile acid-induced IM, the association between BAs and H. pylori infection as well as microorganisms in the stomach, and the correlation between BAs and gastric carcinogenesis. The ultimate goal is to elucidate the role of BAs in the development of GC.

Braun Anastomosis: A Technique for Bile Reflux Improvement After Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal (SASI) Bypass; a Pilot Study.

Background. Single anastomotic surgeries can increase the risk of reflux, marginal ulceration, and gastrointestinal complications. Braun anastomosis prevents bile reflux after gastric resection and gastrojejunal anastomosis surgeries. The present pilot study evaluated Braun's efficacy in a single anastomosis sleeve ileal (SASI) bypass surgery.Methods. 28 patients with a history of SASI bypass surgery from October 2017 to September 2021 were included in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on having Braun anastomosis to this surgical procedure; group A: underwent SASI bypass without Braun anastomosis; group B: underwent SASI bypass with Braun anastomosis. The surgical complications in terms of bile reflux, marginal ulcer, reflux esophagitis, and gastritis were evaluated and compared between the groups. Results. Bile reflux and reflux esophagitis were seen more in group A than in group B (37.5% vs 8.3% and 18.8% vs 8.3%, respectively). In contrast, 2 patients (16.7%) in group B had marginal ulcers compared to 1 (6.3%) in group A. Also, gastritis was seen in 1 patient in each group (6.3% in group A vs 8.3% in group B). However, the differences were not statistically different. Conclusions. Braun anastomosis is probably an effective procedure to reduce bile reflux, a concern of SASI bypass. Besides, further studies with a larger study population are needed.

Tranditional Roux-en-Y vs Uncut Roux-en-Y in Laparoscopic Distal Gastrectomy: a Randomized Controlled Study.

BACKGROUND: Traditional Roux-en-Y may cause Roux-en-Y stasis syndrome (RSS), and Uncut Roux-en-Y was proposed to solve this problem. However, because afferent loop recanalization may occur after surgery, its clinical application remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term outcomes of these two gastrointestinal reconstruction methods. METHODS: A total of 108 patients who received laparoscopic-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) were enrolled; 57 were randomly divided into the Uncut Roux-en-Y (URY) group, and 51 were divided into the Roux-en-Y (RY) group. Patients were followed up for 1 year to evaluate variables, including the following: (1) Assessments for RSS; (2) Preoperative and postoperative Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) scores; (3) Postoperative gastroscopy to assess the occurrence of reflux esophagitis (Los Angeles classification), residual gastritis and bile reflux 1 year after surgery; and (4) Upper gastrointestinal radiography to evaluate whether recanalization occurred in patients in the URY group after surgery. RESULTS: At 1 year after surgery, a total of 42 patients (73.7%) developed afferent loop recanalization. The incidence of RSS was not different between the two groups (OR, 1.301 [95% CI, 0.482 to 3.509]; P = 0.603P = 0.603). The GSRS score was higher in the URY group (P < 0.001). Postoperative gastroscopy showed that the incidence of bile reflux (P < 0.001) and the grade of residual gastritis (P < 0.001) were significantly higher in the URY group, but the grade of reflux esophagitis was not significantly different (P = 0.447, [95% CI, 0.437 to 0.457]P = 0.397). CONCLUSIONS: Compared with traditional Roux-en-Y anastomosis, due to the high recanalization rate, the URY group developed more severe gastrointestinal symptoms, the incidence of bile reflux and the grade of residual gastritis increased and the incidence of postoperative RSS was not reduced.

Post-cholecystectomy bile reflux gastritis: Prevalence, risk factors, and clinical characteristics.

OBJECTIVE: Bile reflux gastritis is caused by the backward flow of duodenal fluid into the stomach. A retrospective cohort study was performed to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of bile reflux gastritis postcholecystectomy, and to evaluate the endoscopic and histopathologic changes in gastric mucosa. METHODS: Patients with refractory upper abdominal pain right below the ribs with symptoms of bloating, burping, nausea, vomiting, and bile regurgitation during the period from January 2018 to December 2020, submitted to Zagazig University Hospitals were enrolled in this study. The studied 64 patients were divided into two groups; the control group (CG): 30 subjects who had never undergone any biliary interventions, and the post-cholecystectomy group (PCG): 34 patients who had undergone cholecystectomy. RESULTS: The prevalence of bile reflux gastritis was (16.7%) and (61.8%) in CG and PCG, respectively. Diabetes, obesity, elevated gastric bilirubin, and elevated stomach pH were all risk factors for bile reflux gastritis in both groups (r = .28,.48,.78,.57 respectively). Age, sex, epigastric pain, heartburn, vomiting, and the existence of bile reflux gastritis, on the other hand, had no correlation. DISCUSSION: After a cholecystectomy, bile reflux gastritis is prevalent, especially among obese and diabetic patients.

A Gastrectomy for early-stage gastric cancer patients with or without preserving celiac branches of vagus nerves: A meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Vagus nerve-preserving gastrectomy is increasingly popular in treating gastric cancer in the early stage, however the long and short-term outcomes after gastrectomy while preserving the celiac branch of the vagus nerve are not well defined. We aimed to summarize and compare perioperative and longer-term outcomes after celiac branch vagus nerve-preserving gastrectomy (CBP, preserving both the celiac and hepatic branches of the vagus nerve), compared to those without CBP (non-CBP, only the hepatic branch of the vagus nerve is preserved). METHODS: We searched the Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases for papers published before October 2021. The primary results were evaluated by short-term and long-term postoperative complications, whereas the secondary outcomes included surgery-related parameters, recovery-related parameters and overall survival. Random-effects or fixed-effects model were used to estimate odds ratio, and weighted mean difference for the outcomes. The underlying publication bias was identified via funnel charts, Begg's test and Egger's test. Sensitivity analysis was conducted by removing the research one by one. RESULTS: A total of 9 studies consisting of 8 retrospective studies and one randomized control trial were included. The analysis included 1,109 patients, with 568 (51.2%) of patients receiving CBP and 541 (48.8%) patients who received non-CBP. The CBP group had a shorter time in terms of first flatus (weighted mean difference = -0.436, 95% confidence interval: -0.603 to -0.269; P < 0.001) and hospital stay (weighted mean difference = -0.456, 95% confidence interval: -0.874 to -0.037, P = 0.033) than the non-CBP group, but the time to the start of oral intake was comparable between the groups. Regarding short-term complications and surgery-related parameters, between CBP and non-CBP, no evident differences were observed in pancreatic complications, anastomotic leakage, postoperative bleeding, operation time, blood loss or lymph nodes examined. In terms of long-term complications, the incidence of gallstones in CBP was lower than that in non-CBP (odds ratio = 0.582, 95% confidence interval: 0.356-0.953, P = 0.031), and the incidence of bile reflux in CBP was lower than that in non-CBP (odds ratio = 0.473, 95% confidence interval: 0.280-0.800, P = 0.005). However, the prevalence rates of diarrhea, early dumping syndrome, esophageal reflux, and delayed gastric emptying were comparable between CBP and non-CBP. CONCLUSION: The present research showed that gastric cancer patients in the early stage under CBP were superior to those without CBP in terms of incidence of gallstones, bile reflux, time of first flatus and hospital stay. Furthermore, it is imperative to conduct randomized control studies with larger sample sizes to determine the oncological survival outcomes when preserving the celiac branch.

[Cholecystectomy as a risk factor for duodenogastric reflux]. / Colecistectomía como factor de riesgo para reflujo duodenogástrico.

Bile reflux or duodenogastric reflux (DGR), refers to the retrograde flow of duodenal contents (mainly bile) into the stomach; capable of producing chemical damage to the mucosa, and triggering mutations towards the development of intestinal metaplasia, dysplasia and even gastric cancer. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of primary bile reflux in cholecystectomized patients and to identify whether cholecystectomy is a risk factor for development of DGR. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional and observational study was conducted, in which all patients who underwent upper digestive endoscopy from February to June 2023 in a private endoscopic center in Lima, Peru, were included. According to the endoscopic report, patients were divided into two groups as those with DGR and those without DGR. Demographic characteristics, history of cholecystectomy, and endoscopic findings were statistically analyzed. 408 patients were included. RESULTS: The mean age of the population was 48.18 ± 16.82 years; 61.52% were female. The prevalence of DGR was 25.74% in the population, while in cholecystectomized patients it was 52.11%. The prevalence of DRG in patients with a history of cholecystectomy was 2.58 times compared to patients without cholecystectomy (p<0.001). Age ≥50 years also behaved as a risk factor for RDG (p=0.025). No significant difference in diabetes, Helicobacter pylori infection or smoking were found. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, a history of cholecystectomy as well as age were found to be risk factors for development of primary DGR.

Do obesity and diabetes increase the frequency and risk of bile reflux gastritis post-cholecystectomy?

<br><b>Introduction:</b> Biliary gastropathy is a disease characterized by upper abdominal pain, frequent heartburn, nausea, and vomiting of bile. It is caused by the backward flow of duodenal fluid into the stomach and esophagus.</br> <br><b>Aim:</b> A retrospective cohort study was performed to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of bile reflux gastritis secondary to cholecystectomy and to evaluate the endoscopic and histopathologic changes in gastric mucosa caused by bile reflux gastritis.</br> <br><b>Materials and methods:</b> The study involved 64 patients with epigastric pain and/or dyspeptic symptoms during the period from January 2018 to December 2020 who presented to Zagazig University Hospitals. The subjects were divided into two groups: the control group (CG), with 30 subjects who had never undergone any biliary interventions, and the post-cholecystectomy group (PCG), consisting of 34 patients who had undergone cholecystectomy.</br> <br><b>Results:</b> The prevalence of bile reflux gastritis was 16.7% in the CG and 61.8% in the PCG. In both groups, diabetes, obesity, increased gastric bilirubin, and increased gastric pH were risk factors for bile reflux gastritis (r = 0.28, 0.48, 0.78, and 0.57, respectively). However, there were no correlations between age, sex, epigastric pain, heartburn, vomiting, and the presence of bile reflux gastritis.</br> <br><b>Discussion:</b> Bile reflux gastritis is a common complication following cholecystectomy and is more common among obese and diabetic patients.</br>.

Bile reflux alters the profile of the gastric mucosa microbiota.

Background: Bile reflux can cause inflammation, gastric mucosa atrophy, and diseases such as stomach cancer. Alkaline bile flowing back into the stomach affects the intragastric environment and can alter the gastric bacterial community. We sought to identify the characteristics of the stomach mucosal microbiota in patients with bile reflux. Methods: Gastric mucosal samples were collected from 52 and 40 chronic gastritis patients with and without bile reflux, respectively. The bacterial profile was determined using 16S rRNA gene analysis. Results: In the absence of H. pylori infection, the richness (based on the Sobs and Chao1 indices; P <0.05) and diversity (based on Shannon indices; P <0.05) of gastric mucosa microbiota were higher in patients with bile reflux patients than in those without. There was a marked difference in the microbiota structure between patients with and without bile reflux (ANOSIM, R=0.058, P=0.011). While the genera, Comamonas, Halomonas, Bradymonas, Pseudomonas, Marinobacter, Arthrobacter, and Shewanella were enriched in patients with bile reflux, the genera, Haemophilus, Porphyromonas, and Subdoligranulum, were enriched in those without bile reflux. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that bile reflux significantly alters the composition of the gastric microbiota.

Analysis of Barrett's Esophagus and Its Risk Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study of 10,122 Subjects at a Japanese Health Examination Center.

INTRODUCTION: Helicobacter pylori eradication is expected to significantly change the prevalence of Barrett's esophagus (BE). However, few reports on this relationship exist. We analyzed the risk factors of BE using the current consensus on length of BE considering H. pylori infection status. METHODS: We analyzed 10,122 individuals (5,962 men; mean age = 52.9 ± 9.9 years) who had undergone esophagogastroduodenoscopy as part of a medical checkup. Correlations among factors including H. pylori infectious status, endoscopic findings, and BE ≥1 cm were analyzed. RESULTS: Prevalence of BE, long-segment BE, and esophageal adenocarcinoma was 22.5%, 0.014%, and 0%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that the risk factors for BE were hiatal hernia (odds ratio [OR]: 2.89 [2.59-3.24]), female sex (OR: 0.52 [0.46-0.59]), social drinking (OR:0.77 [0.68-0.87]), H. pylori eradication therapy (OR: 1.34 [1.19-1.51]), proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use (OR: 1.52 [1.18-1.96]), bile reflux (OR: 1.18 [1.04-1.33]), age ≥50 years (OR: 1.13 [1.02-1.26]), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use (OR: 1.29 [1.02-1.62]). Although reflux esophagitis (RE) was more common in H. pylori-negative patients (17.2%) than in those after H. pylori eradication therapy (11.8%, p < 0.00001), the latter was correlated with BE, disputing RE as a strong risk factor for BE. Therefore, we conducted a subgroup analysis; most of the risk factors except for PPI use (p = 0.75), H2-receptor antagonist use (p = 0.078), and atrophic gastritis absence (p = 0.72) were positively correlated with BE after H. pylori eradication therapy compared with H. pylori-negative status. CONCLUSIONS: H. pylori eradication, bile reflux, PPI use, and NSAID use were risk factors for BE along with hiatal hernia, male sex, and older age.

Bile reflux and bile acids in the progression of gastric intestinal metaplasia.

ABSTRACT: Gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) is a precancerous lesion of gastric cancer (GC) and is considered an irreversible point of progression for GC. Helicobacter pylori infection can cause GIM, but its eradication still does not reverse the process. Bile reflux is also a pathogenic factor in GIM and can continuously irritate the gastric mucosa, and bile acids in refluxed fluid have been widely reported to be associated with GIM. This paper reviews in detail the relationship between bile reflux and GIM and the mechanisms by which bile acids induce GIM.

Laparoscopic conversion of omega loop gastric bypass to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for Barrett's esophagus: case report.

BACKGROUND: The number of mini gastric bypass / one anastomosis bypass (MGB-OAGB) procedures in bariatric patients that have been performed world-wide has drastically increased during the past decade. Nevertheless, due to the risk of subsequent biliary reflux and development of ulcer and neoplastic (pre)lesions caused by long-time bile exposure, the procedure is still controversially discussed. In here presented case report, we could endoscopically demonstrate a transformation from reflux oesophagitis to Barrett's metaplasia most likely caused by bile reflux after mini-gastric bypass. To our knowledge, this is a first case study that shows development of Barrett's metaplasia after MGB-OAGB. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 50-year-old female which received a mini-gastric bypass due to morbid obesity (body mass index (BMI) 42.4 kg/m2). Because of history gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a fundoplication had been performed earlier. Preoperative gastroscopy showed reflux esophagitis (Los Angeles classification grade B) with no signs of Barrett's metaplasia. Three months post mini-gastric bypass, the patient complained about severe bile reflux under 40 mg pantoprazole daily. Six months postoperative, Endoscopically Barrett's epithelium was detected and histopathologically confirmed (C1M0 after Prague classification). A conversion into Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was performed. The postoperative course was without complications. In a follow up after 6 months the patient denied reflux and showed no signs of malnutrition. CONCLUSIONS: The rapid progress from inflammatory changes of the distal esophagus towards Barrett's metaplasia under bile reflux in our case is most likely a result of previous reflux disease. Nevertheless, bile reflux appears to be a potential decisive factor. Study results regarding presence of bile reflux or development of endoscopically de-novo findings after MGB-OAGB are widely non-conclusive. Long-term prospective studies with regular endoscopic surveillance independent of clinical symptoms are needed.

Negative correlations between bile reflux gastritis and Helicobacter pylori infection.

OBJECTIVE: There are a few articles to study the relationship between bile reflux gastritis (BRG) and H. pylori infection, and the results are debatable. This study set out to determine the relationship between BRG and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. METHODS: In this retrospective study, patients from January, 1st 2013 to January, 1st, 2021 were divided into two groups based on whether they had BRG. The control group was got by 1:1 propensity-score matching (PSM) based on age and sex. Then, the relationship between BRG and H. pylori in patients was analyzed via Chi-squared test and Phi (φ) detection. RESULTS: 26449 patients were included in this study, and there were 1918 patients in each group after age and sex matching. patients with HP were responsible for 35% (9345/26449) and patients with BRG were 7% (1918/26449). Further relationship exploration, there is a negative, but weak, the relationship between BRG and HP infection (X2 = 45.62, p < .001, Phi (φ)= -0.109). CONCLUSION: Patients with bile reflux may have less likely to get HP infection. HP eradication is an important thing for the prevention of gastric cancer and this study serves as a foundation and may provide directions for future research.

Optimal Reconstruction After Laparoscopic Distal Gastrectomy: A Single-Center Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVES: Although laparoscopic distal gastrectomy has been widely used for distal gastric cancer, the best functional reconstruction type has not yet been established. Based on previous experience, we propose a modified uncut Roux-en-Y anastomosis. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of different intracorporeal anastomoses after laparoscopic distal gastrectomy. METHODS: From April 2015 to August 2020, the data of 215 patients who underwent laparoscopic distal gastrectomy was collected. The patients were divided into 4 groups according to the digestive tract reconstruction method, Billroth-I, Billroth-II, Roux-en-Y, and the modified uncut Roux-en-Y. Clinicopathologic characteristics, surgery details, short-term outcomes, and postoperative nutritional status were analyzed. RESULTS: The operation time of Billroth-I anastomosis was significantly shorter (216.2 ± 25.8 min, P < .001) than that of other methods. There was no difference in postoperative complications and OS among the 4 reconstruction methods. The incidences of esophagitis, gastritis, and bile reflux were significantly lower in the Roux-en-Y and uncut Roux-en-Y group (P < .001) 1 year after surgery. And the postoperative albumin and PNI levels in uncut Roux-en-Y group were higher than those in other groups(P < .05). On multivariate analysis, age and reconstruction type were independently related to esophagitis, gastritis, and bile reflux. Serum albumin and the prognostic nutritional index were significantly higher in the uncut Roux-en-Y group than other groups (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: All 4 reconstruction techniques are feasible and safe. The Roux-en-Y and uncut Roux-en-Y are superior to Billroth-Ⅰ and Billroth-Ⅱ+Braun in terms of reflux esophagitis, gastritis, and bile reflux. Uncut Roux-en-Y may result in better PNI than the others.

Bile Acid-Microbiome Interaction Promotes Gastric Carcinogenesis.

Bile reflux gastritis (BRG) is associated with the development of gastric cancer (GC), but the specific mechanism remains elusive. Here, a comprehensive study is conducted to explore the roles of refluxed bile acids (BAs) and microbiome in gastric carcinogenesis. The results show that conjugated BAs, interleukin 6 (IL-6), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and the relative abundance of LPS-producing bacteria are increased significantly in the gastric juice of both BRG and GC patients. A secondary BA, taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA), is significantly and positively correlated with the LPS-producing bacteria in the gastric juice of these patients. TDCA promotes the proliferation of normal gastric epithelial cells (GES-1) through activation of the IL-6/JAK1/STAT3 pathway. These results are further verified in two mouse models, one by gavage of TDCA, LPS, and LPS-producing bacteria (Prevotella melaninogenica), respectively, and the other by bile reflux (BR) surgery, mimicking clinical bile refluxing. Moreover, the bile reflux induced gastric precancerous lesions observed in the post BR surgery mice can be prevented by treatment with cryptotanshinone, a plant-derived STAT3 inhibitor. These results reveal an important underlying mechanism by which bile reflux promotes gastric carcinogenesis and provide an alternative strategy for the prevention of GC associated with BRG.