1: ESGE recommends the combination of endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition (EUS-TA) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-based tissue acquisition as the preferred diagnostic approach for tissue acquisition in patients with jaundice and distal extrahepatic biliary stricture in the absence of a pancreatic mass. 2: ESGE suggests that brushing cytology should be completed along with fluoroscopy-guided biopsies, wherever technically feasible, in patients with perihilar biliary strictures. 3: ESGE suggests EUS-TA for perihilar strictures when ERCP-based modalities yield insufficient results, provided that curative resection is not feasible and/or when cross-sectional imaging has shown accessible extraluminal disease. 4: ESGE suggests using standard ERCP diagnostic modalities at index ERCP. In the case of indeterminate biliary strictures, ESGE suggests cholangioscopy-guided biopsies, in addition to standard ERCP diagnostic modalities. Additional intraductal biliary imaging modalities can be selectively used, based on clinical context, local expertise, and resource availability.

BACKGROUND:Colonoscopy is essential for diagnosing colorectal diseases but can cause pain during the procedure. This study explored the analgesic effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation based on wrist-ankle acupuncture theory (TENS-WAA) in colonoscopy without anesthesia. METHODS:This prospective study included 120 participants undergoing colonoscopies without anesthesia. The trial group received low-frequency, high-intensity TENS-WAA adjusted to the maximum tolerable current, while the control group received minimal current. The primary outcome was the retrospective pain score on a visual analog scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes included time, heart rate, and credibility/expectancy questionnaire (CEQ) scores. RESULTS:Participants who received TENS-WAA reported significantly lower pain VAS scores than the control group (estimated median difference -1.1, 95%CI -2 to -0.4; P = 0.002). Male participants in the trial group experienced significantly lower pain scores than the control group (mean difference -1.4, 95%CI -2.41 to -0.39; P = 0.008). The trial group showed significantly less variation in heart rates (P<0.001) and higher CEQ scores (P = 0.001) than the control group. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION:TENS-WAA effectively reduced pain during colonoscopy without anesthesia, especially in male participants, providing a promising noninvasive analgesic method.

BACKGROUND:The role of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for laterally spreading lesions (LSLs) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains controversial despite its effectiveness in the general population. We aimed to characterize outcomes of EMR for IBD-associated LSLs compared with controls without IBD. METHODS:We performed a retrospective observational cohort study of patients with IBD who underwent EMR and endoscopic follow-up for LSLs, compared with a control group without IBD. The primary outcome was histologic recurrence. Secondary outcomes included en bloc resection and adverse events. Factors associated with recurrence were identified using multivariate mixed effects logistic regression. RESULTS:210 premalignant lesions in 155 patients were included. By histology, 91.0% were adenoma/low grade dysplasia or sessile serrated lesions. Median (IQR) lesion size was 25 (12-30) mm in the IBD group and 20 (12-30) mm in the control group. Recurrence was detected in 30.4% of IBD-associated lesions (7/23) compared with 20.9% of controls (39/187; odds ratio [OR] 2.51, 95%CI 0.59-10.71). En bloc resection was less common in the IBD group (2/23 [8.7%], 95%CI 1.1-28.0) versus controls (106/187 [56.7%], 95%CI 50.4-65.2). After adjusting for lesion size and histology, recurrence appeared more common in patients with IBD compared with controls (OR 3.08, 95%CI 1.04-9.13). CONCLUSIONS:Recurrence of LSLs after EMR appeared to be more frequent in patients with IBD. Given the added complexity, EMR in patients with IBD should be performed in expert centers with close endoscopic surveillance.

BACKGROUND : Accurate polyp size measurement is important for polyp risk stratification and decision-making regarding polypectomy and surveillance. Recently, a virtual scale (VS) function has been developed that allows polyp size measurement through projection of an adaptive VS onto colorectal polyps during real-time endoscopy. We aimed to evaluate the VS in terms of variability and systematic differences. METHODS : We conducted a video-based study with 120 colorectal polyps, measured by eight dedicated colorectal gastroenterologists (experts) and nine gastroenterology residents following endoscopy training (trainees). Three endoscopic measurement methods were compared: (1) visual, (2) snare and (3) VS measurement. We evaluated the method-specific variance (as measure of variability) in polyp size measurements and systematic differences between these methods. RESULTS : Variance in polyp size measurements was significantly lower for VS measurements compared to visual and snare measurements for both experts (0.52 vs. 1.59 and 1.96, p < 0.001) and trainees (0.59 vs. 2.21 and 2.53, p < 0.001). VS measurement resulted in a higher percentage of polyps assigned to the same size category by all endoscopists compared to visual and snare measurements (experts: 69 % vs. 55 % and 59 %; trainees: 67 % vs. 51 % and 47 %) and reduced the maximum difference between individual endoscopists regarding the percentage of polyps assigned to the ≥ 10 mm size category (experts: 1.7 % vs. 10.0 % and 5.0 %; trainees: 2.5 % vs. 6.7 % and 11.7 %). Systematic differences between methods were < 0.5 mm. CONCLUSIONS : Use of the VS leads to lower polyp size measurement variability and more uniform polyp sizing by individual endoscopists compared to visual and snare measurements.

BACKGROUND:Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) affect gastrointestinal motility, slowing gastric emptying and colonic transit. GLP-1RAs have an impact on gastric residue before endoscopy, but only limited data are available regarding its effect on the adequacy of colonic preparation. We investigated the association between GLP-1RA use and inadequate bowel preparation (IBP) for colonoscopy. METHODS:We performed a multicenter retrospective study with GLP-1RA cases matched with controls (using propensity scores for age, sex, diabetes mellitus [DM], obesity, and co-morbidities). Data on demographics, medication use, procedural indications, and colonoscopy findings were collected. IBP ("poor preparation" on Aronchik scale or Boston Bowel preparation scale <5) was the primary outcome. RESULTS:4876 patients treated with GLP-1RAs were included in the analysis and compared with 4876 controls selected from 333 648 patients without GLP-1RA use. Among the GLP-1RA patients, 10% (n = 487) had IBP compared with 197 (4%) of the control group (<0.001). Subgroup analysis showed a higher rate of IBP among diabetic patients treated with GLP-1RA (284/2364 [12%]) than among diabetic patients without GLP-1RA treatment (118/2364 [5%]; <0.001). Additionally, 203/2512 nondiabetic patients treated with GLP-1RAs had IBP (8%) compared with 79 of the nondiabetic non-GLP-1RA group (3%; <0.001). On multivariate analysis, diabetes and GLP-1RA use were both found to be independent risk factors for IBP (odds ratio [OR] 1.4 and OR 2.7, respectively; both <0.001). CONCLUSION:Our findings highlight the necessity for special attention and tailored recommendations for both diabetic and nondiabetic patients treated with GLP-1RAs in terms of colonic preparation prior to colonoscopy.

BACKGROUND:Infection outbreaks associated with contaminated reusable duodenoscopes (RUDs) have induced the development of novel single-use duodenoscopes (SUDs). This study aimed to analyze the material composition and life cycle assessment (LCA) of RUDs and SUDs to assess the sustainability of global and partial SUD implementation. METHODS:A single-center study evaluated material composition analysis and LCA of one RUD and two SUDs from different manufacturers (A/B). Material composition analysis was performed to evaluate the thermochemical properties of the duodenoscope components. The carbon footprint was calculated using environmental software. We compared the sustainability strategies of universal use of RUDs, frequent use of RUDs with occasional SUDs, and universal use of SUDs over the lifetime of one RUD. RESULTS:RUDs were substantially heavier (3489 g) than both SUD-A (943 g) and SUD-B (716 g). RUDs were mainly metal alloys (95%), whereas SUDs were mainly plastic polymers and resins (70%-81%). The LCA demonstrated the sustainability of RUDs, with a life cycle carbon footprint 62-82 times lower than universal use of SUDs (152 vs. 10 512-12 640 kg COeq) and 10 times lower than occasional use of SUDs (152 vs. 1417-1677 kg COeq). Differences were observed between SUD-A and SUD-B (7.9 vs. 6.6 kg COeq per endoscope). End-of-life incineration emissions for SUDs were the greatest environmental contributors. CONCLUSIONS:Widespread adoption of SUDs has greater environmental challenges; it requires a balance between infection control and environmental responsibility. Carbon footprint labelling can help healthcare institutions make sustainable choices and promote environmentally responsible healthcare practices.

BACKGROUND:Bleeding from gastric varices is life-threatening, with significant rebleeding risk despite standard cyanoacrylate glue injection therapy. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)-guided coil embolization with cyanoacrylate injection (Coil+CYA) compared with EUS-guided cyanoacrylate injection alone (CYA) for the treatment of gastric varices. METHODS:The study was conducted at a tertiary referral center in India, using a single-blinded, prospective, and parallel-group randomized design. A total of 50 patients were randomly assigned (1 : 1) to Coil+CYA or CYA. The primary outcome was clinical success (i.e. variceal obliteration). Secondary outcomes involved technical success, gastric variceal recurrence during follow-up, rebleeding episodes, reintervention, and survival. RESULTS:Post-intervention, gastric variceal obliteration assessed by EUS was higher in the Coil+CYA group (100% vs. 92.3%; = 0.49), with both groups achieving 100% technical success. Rebleeding episodes during 0-12 and 12-24 weeks were comparable in the two groups. At 12 weeks, on EUS, variceal reappearance was less common in the Coil+CYA group (12.5% vs. 19.2%; = 0.70). Significantly fewer reinterventions were needed in the Coil+CYA group (20.8% vs. 53.8%; = 0.03). The time to reintervention was significantly longer in the Coil+CYA group ( = 0.01), and the survival time was also longer ( = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS:EUS-guided coil embolization with cyanoacrylate injection achieved superior clinical success, reducing the need for reintervention and resulting in improved survival compared with cyanoacrylate injection alone.

BACKGROUND:Complete excision of upper gastrointestinal subepithelial lesions (U-SELs) eliminates diagnostic uncertainty, obviates the need for surveillance, and may be necessary for definitive diagnosis and management. Current guidelines lack precision and cohesion, and surgery is associated with significant morbidity. We describe and report on the outcomes of our SEL algorithm for endoscopic (SAFE) resection. METHODS:U-SELs were enrolled prospectively over 115 months until March 2023. All subjects underwent axial (computed tomography) imaging and endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) to exclude a large exophytic component or invasion into local structures, and assess for muscularis propria (MP) involvement. RESULTS:106 U-SELs (41 esophageal, 65 gastric) were resected (mean patient age 60.6 [SD 13.4]; 51.9% male). Esophageal U-SELs underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD; n = 22) or submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER) if MP involvement was suspected (n = 19). Gastric U-SELs underwent STER (n = 6 at cardia), ESD (n = 47), or exposing endoscopic full-thickness resection (e-EFTR; n = 12). Technical success rates were 97.6% and 92.3%, respectively. Among the noncardiac gastric U-SELs, five resections (9.6%) were completed laparoscopically owing to deep and broad full-thickness involvement; five (9.6%) required laparoscopic gastrotomy and surgical retrieval after successful resection and closure owing to a large lesion size (mean 47 mm). There was no delayed bleeding, perforation, or recurrence at 13 months. CONCLUSION:U-SELs may be effectively and safely treated by endoscopic resection. The SAFE approach provides a framework that facilitates structured decision-making. Esophageal U-SELs suspected of involving the MP should undergo STER. Gastric SELs are best managed by ESD, with a view to proceeding to e-EFTR. A laparoscopic upper gastrointestinal surgeon should be available in case surgical retrieval of the specimen or laparoscopic completion is required.

BACKGROUND:Surgery is the first-choice treatment for malignant intestinal obstruction (MIO); however, many patients are deemed unfit for surgery. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided entero-colostomy (EUS-EC) with a lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) could represent a new treatment option. METHODS:Consecutive patients undergoing EUS-EC for MIO from November 2021 to September 2023 at four European tertiary referral centers were retrospectively enrolled. Multidisciplinary meetings determined whether patients were unsuitable for surgery or colonic stent placement, or refused surgery. The primary outcome was technical success of EUS-EC and secondary outcomes were clinical outcome, safety, and hospital stay. RESULTS:12 patients were enrolled (median age 72.5 [range 42-85] years; 58.3% female). Colonic adenocarcinoma was the primary tumor in 75.0% of patients and 91.7% had stage IV disease. Technical success was 100%. No LAMS misdeployment or other procedural adverse events occurred; three patients (25.0%) had severe post-procedural complications. Clinical success was achieved in 10 patients (83.3%), with 5 (50.0%) resuming chemotherapy after the procedure. Median post-procedural hospital stay was 9 (1-20) days and median overall survival was 47.5 (2-270) days. CONCLUSIONS:EUS-EC was a feasible technique and could be considered a possible alternative to standard approaches for MIO in highly selected patients.

BACKGROUND:A novel rigidizing overtube (ROT) was developed to facilitate endoscopic removal of complex gastrointestinal polyps. We aimed to prospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of the device in the management of large gastrointestinal polyps. METHODS:A prospective, single-center study, conducted between May 2021 and April 2023, enrolled patients undergoing endoscopic resection of colon/duodenal polyps ≥25 mm. Primary outcomes were safety, technical success, and clinical success defined as the ability of ROT to facilitate endoscopic polyp removal without changing the initial resection method. RESULTS:97 patients (98 polyps), with a mean polyp size of 33.2 mm (median 31.1), were evaluated. Technical and clinical success rates were 100% and 84%, respectively. Ileocecal valve location was the only predictor of clinical failure (P = 0.02). The mean time to reach the lesion was 7.2 minutes (95%CI 5-8), with overall resection and procedure times of 53.6 minutes (95%CI 48-61) and 88.9 minutes (95%CI 79-95), respectively. No device-related adverse events occurred. Lower technical (67%) and clinical (67%) success rates were seen for duodenal polyps (n = 6). CONCLUSION:The novel ROT was safe, with high technical and clinical success during resection of complex colon polyps. Future studies will determine timing of implementation during routine endoscopic resection.

BACKGROUND:Hepatic venous portal gradient (HVPG) measurement remains the gold standard for estimating portal pressure gradient (PPG). This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided PPG and HVPG in patients with chronic portal hypertension. METHODS:Patients with chronic portal hypertension in whom HVPG assessment was clinically indicated were invited to undergo transjugular HVPG and EUS-PPG with a 22-G needle in separate sessions for comparison. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the Bland-Altman method were used to evaluate the agreement between techniques. RESULTS:33 patients were included. No significant differences in technical success were observed: EUS-PPG (31/33, 93.9%) vs. HVPG (31/33, 93.9%). Overall, 30 patients who underwent successful EUS-PPG and HVPG were analyzed. Correlation between the two techniques showed an ICC of 0.82 (0.65-0.91). Four patients had major discrepancies (≥5 mmHg) between HVPG and EUS-PPG. No significant differences in adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS:The correlation between EUS-PPG and HVPG was almost perfect. EUS-PPG could be a safe and reliable method for direct PPG measurement in patients with cirrhosis and a valid alternative to HVPG.

BACKGROUND:Adenoma detection rate (ADR) is a quality indicator set at a minimum of 25% in unselected populations by the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE). Nevertheless, a lack of pooled observational data resembling real-world practice limits support for this threshold. We aimed to perform a systematic review with meta-analysis to evaluate the pooled rates for conventional adenoma detection, polyp detection (PDR), cecal intubation, bowel preparation, and complications in population-based studies. METHODS:The PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched until May 2023 for populational-based studies reporting overall ADR in unselected individuals. A random-effects model was used for meta-analysis. RESULTS:31 studies were included, comprising 3 644 561 subjects. A high quality of procedures was noticeable, with a high cecal intubation rate and low complication rate. The overall pooled ADR, PDR, and rate of cancer detection were 26.5% (95%CI 23.3% to 29.7%), 38.3% (95%CI 32.5% to 44.1%), and 2.7% (95%CI 1.5% to 3.9%), respectively. ADR varied according to indication: screening 33.3% (95%CI 24.5% to 42.2%), surveillance 42.9% (95%CI 36.9% to 49.0%), and diagnostic 24.7% (95%CI 19.5% to 29.9%), with subgroup analysis revealing rates of 34.4% (95%CI 22.0% to 40.5%) for post-fecal occult blood test and 26.6% (95%CI 22.6% to 30.5%) for primary colonoscopy screening. Diminutive conventional adenomas yielded a pooled rate of 59.9% (95%CI 43.4% to 76.3%). The pooled rate for overall serrated lesion detection was 12.4% (95%CI 8.8% to 16.0%). Male sex and higher age were significantly associated with an ADR above the benchmark. CONCLUSION:This first meta-analysis relying on real-world observational studies supports the ESGE benchmark for ADR, while suggesting that different benchmarks might be used according to indication, sex, and age.

BACKGROUND:Percutaneous liver biopsy (PC-LB) has long been the usual method for acquisition of liver tissue. Recently, endoscopic ultrasound-guided liver biopsy (EUS-LB) has gained popularity as an alternative modality. We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of EUS-LB versus PC-LB. METHODS:We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EUS-LB with PC-LB published until October 20, 2023. The primary outcome was diagnostic adequacy. Secondary outcomes were: the number of complete portal tracts (CPTs), longest sample length (LSL), total sample length (TSL), post-procedure pain scores, and adverse events (AEs), including overall AEs and AEs excluding minor post-procedure symptoms. We compared binary outcomes using risk ratios (RRs) and continuous outcomes using the mean difference (MD) or standardized mean difference (SMD), with 95%CIs. RESULTS:Four RCTs (258 patients) were included. The EUS-LB group presented lower post-procedure pain scores (SMD -0.58, 95%CI -0.95 to -0.22) than the PC-LB group. Both groups performed similarly in terms of diagnostic adequacy (RR 1.0, 95%CI 0.96 to 1.04), number of CPTs (MD 2.57, 95%CI -4.09 to 9.22), LSL (MD -2.91 mm, 95%CI -5.86 to 0.03), TSL (MD 4.16 mm, 95%CI -10.12 to 18.45), overall AEs (RR 0.54, 95%CI 0.20 to 1.46), and AEs excluding minor post-procedure symptoms (RR 1.65, 95%CI 0.21 to 13.02). CONCLUSIONS:This meta-analysis suggests that EUS-LB is as safe and effective as PC-LB and is associated with lower post-procedure pain scores.Registration on PROSPERO: CRD42023469469.

BACKGROUND:The duration of an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is influenced by a multitude of factors. The aim of this study was to describe the factors influencing ERCP time and to create a tool for preintervention estimation of ERCP time. METHODS:Data from 74 248 ERCPs performed from 2010 to 2019 were extracted from the Swedish National Quality Registry (GallRiks) to identify variables predictive for ERCP time using linear regression analyses and root mean squared error (RMSE) as a loss function. Ten variables were combined to create an estimation tool for ERCP duration. The tool was externally validated using 9472 ERCPs from 2020 to 2021. RESULTS:Mean (SD) ERCP time was 36.8 (25.3) minutes. Indications with the strongest influence on ERCP time were primary sclerosing cholangitis and chronic pancreatitis. Hilar and intrahepatic biliary strictures and interventions on the pancreatic duct were the anatomic features that most strongly affected ERCP time. The procedure steps with most influence were intraductal endoscopy, lithotripsy, dilation, and papillectomy. Based on these results, we built and validated the SW: edish E: stimation of E: RCP T: ime (SWEET) tool, which is based on a 10-factor scoring system (e.g. 5 minutes for bile duct cannulation and 15 minutes for pancreatic duct cannulation) and predicted ERCP time with an average difference between actual and predicted duration of 17.5 minutes during external validation. CONCLUSIONS:Based on new insights into the factors affecting ERCP time, we created the SWEET tool, the first specific tool for preintervention estimation of ERCP time, which is easy-to-apply in everyday clinical practice, to guide efficient ERCP scheduling.

BACKGROUND:Post-endoscopy upper gastrointestinal cancer (PEUGIC) is an important key performance indicator for endoscopy quality. We examined variation in PEUGIC rates among endoscopy providers in England and explored associated factors. METHODS:The was a population-based, retrospective, case-control study, examining data from National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service and Hospital Episode Statistics databases for esophageal and gastric cancers diagnosed between 2009 and 2018 in England. PEUGIC were cancers diagnosed 6 to 36 months after an endoscopy that did not diagnose cancer. Associated factors were identified using multivariable logistic regression analyses. RESULTS:The national PEUGIC rate was 8.5%, varying from 5% to 13% among endoscopy providers. Factors associated with PEUGIC included: female sex (odds ratio [OR] 1.29 [95%CI 1.23-1.36]); younger age (age >80 years, OR 0.52 [0.48-0.56], compared with ≤60 years); increasing comorbidity (Charlson score >4, OR 5.06 [4.45-5.76]); history of esophageal ulcer (OR 3.30 [3.11-3.50]), Barrett's esophagus (OR 3.21 [3.02-3.42]), esophageal stricture (OR 1.28 [1.20-1.37]), or gastric ulcer (OR 1.55 [1.44-1.66]); squamous cell carcinoma (OR 1.50 [1.39-1.61]); and UK national endoscopy accreditation status - providers requiring improvement (OR 1.10 [1.01-1.20]), providers never assessed (OR 1.24 [1.04-1.47]). CONCLUSION:PEUGIC rates varied threefold among endoscopy providers, suggesting unwarranted differences in endoscopy quality. PEUGIC was associated with endoscopy findings known to be associated with upper gastrointestinal cancer and a lack of national endoscopy provider accreditation. PEUGIC variations suggest an opportunity to raise performance standards to detect upper gastrointestinal cancers earlier and improve outcomes.

BACKGROUND:Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) are effective treatments for Barrett's neoplasia. However, little is known about recurrence rates following these techniques. We compared long-term neoplasia recurrence rates following EMR and ESD. METHODS:This study included patients with Barrett's neoplasia (high grade dysplasia/adenocarcinoma) treated between July 2019 and December 2023 at a tertiary referral center in Canada. Outcomes were residual neoplasia at first follow-up, complete remission of neoplasia (CRN), and neoplasia recurrence following CRN. RESULTS:157 patients were included (87 EMR, 70 ESD). Compared with EMR, the ESD group had larger lesions (median 2 vs. 3 cm, <0.05), more adenocarcinoma (85.1% vs. 94.3%, = 0.07), and deeper submucosal invasion (T1a: 71.6% vs. 75.8%; T1b-SM1: 25.7% vs. 6.1%; T1b≥SM2: 2.7% vs. 18.2%; <0.05). Among 124 patients with follow-up (71 EMR, 53 ESD), 84.9% of ESD-treated patients had curative resections (i.e. R0 resection with low risk for lymph node metastasis), whereas 94.4% of EMR-treated patients had deep margin R0 resection of low risk lesions. At first follow-up, residual neoplasia (14.1% vs. 11.3%) and CRN (97.2% vs. 100%) were similar in the EMR and ESD groups, but neoplasia recurrence following CRN was significantly higher with EMR (13% vs. 1.9%, <0.05), with cumulative probability of recurrence at 3 years of 18.3% vs. 4.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS:Neoplasia recurrence following CRN was significantly higher following EMR compared with ESD, suggesting that ESD may be superior to EMR in preventing neoplasia recurrence in Barrett's esophagus.

BACKGROUND: We assessed efficacy and safety of endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) vs. endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) as first-line intervention in malignant distal biliary obstruction (MDBO). METHODS: PubMed/Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched until 01 /12 /2023 for randomized controlled trials of EUS-BD vs. ERCP for primary biliary drainage in patients with inoperable MDBO. The primary outcome was technical success. Secondary outcomes were clinical success, adverse events, mean procedure time, 1-year stent patency, and overall survival. Relative risk (RR) with 95 %CI were calculated using a random effects model. RESULTS: Five studies (519 patients) were included. RR (95 %CI) for EUS-BD was 1.06 (0.96 to 1.17; P = 0.27) for pooled technical success and 1.02 (0.97 to 1.08; P = 0.45) for clinical success. 1-year stent patency was similar between the groups (RR 1.15, 0.94 to 1.42; P = 0.17), with lower reintervention with EUS-BD (RR 0.58, 0.37 to 0.9; P = 0.01). The RR was 0.85 (0.49 to 1.46; P = 0.55) for adverse events and 0.97 (0.10 to 0.17; P = 0.98) for severe adverse events. On subgroup analysis, EUS-guided placement of lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) outperformed ERCP in terms of technical success (RR 1.17, 1.01 to 1.35; P = 0.03). Procedure time was lower with EUS-BD (standardized mean difference -2.36 minutes [-2.68 to -2.05; P < 0.001]). CONCLUSIONS: EUS-BD showed a statistically significant lower reintervention rate than ERCP, but with similar technical success, stent patency, clinical success, and safety. Technical success of EUS-BD with LAMS was better than ERCP.

BACKGROUND:The role of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in the treatment of Barrett esophagus-associated neoplasia (BEN) has been evolving. We examined the efficacy and safety of ESD and endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for BEN. METHODS:A database search was performed for studies reporting efficacy and safety outcomes of ESD and EMR for BEN. Pooled proportional and comparative meta-analyses were performed. RESULTS:47 studies (23 ESD, 19 EMR, 5 comparative) were included. The mean lesion sizes for ESD and EMR were 22.5 mm and 15.8 mm, respectively; most lesions were Paris type IIa. For ESD, pooled analysis showed rates of en bloc, R0, and curative resection, and local recurrence of 98%, 78%, 65%, and 2%, respectively. Complete eradication of dysplasia and intestinal metaplasia were achieved in 94% and 59% of cases, respectively. Pooled rates of perforation, intraprocedural bleeding, delayed bleeding, and stricture were 1%, 1%, 2%, and 10%, respectively. For EMR, pooled analysis showed rates of en bloc, R0, and curative resection, and local recurrence of 37%, 67%, 62%, and 6%, respectively. Complete eradication of dysplasia and intestinal metaplasia were achieved in 94% and 75% of cases. Pooled rates of perforation, intraprocedural bleeding, delayed bleeding, and stricture were 0.1%, 1%, 0.4%, and 8%, respectively. The mean procedure times for ESD and EMR were 113 and 22 minutes, respectively. Comparative analysis showed higher en bloc and R0 resection rates with ESD compared with EMR, with comparable adverse events. CONCLUSION:ESD and EMR can both be employed to treat BEN depending on lesion type and size, and center expertise.

BACKGROUND:Although lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMSs) have been increasingly used for walled-off necrosis (WON), their advantages over plastic stents in infected WON are unclear. We investigated the safety and efficacy of a novel electrocautery-enhanced LAMS for managing infected WON. METHODS:Patients who required endoscopic ultrasound-guided WON drainage were randomly assigned to LAMS or plastic stent groups. The primary outcome was total number of direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN) procedures required to achieve clinical success. Secondary outcomes included rates of technical success, clinical success, and adverse events. RESULTS:46 patients were included in the LAMS (n = 23) and plastic stent (n = 23) groups. The median total number of DEN procedures did not differ significantly between the plastic stent group (4 procedures, interquartile range [IQR] 2.5-5.0) and LAMS group (9 procedures, IQR 8.0-9.0) ( = 0.07). The LAMS group demonstrated a significantly higher clinical success rate than the plastic stent group based on intention-to-treat analysis (100% vs. 73.9%, =0.03) at 8 weeks but not at 4 weeks. Significant bleeding occurred in one patient in the plastic stent group and no patients in the LAMS group. CONCLUSIONS:We found no significant difference in the total number of DEN procedures between LAMSs and plastic stents for managing infected WON. The only statistically significant finding was a higher clinical success rate at 8 weeks for patients treated with LAMS. The use of LAMS did not result in any adverse events, such as bleeding or buried LAMS syndrome, within the study duration.

BACKGROUND:Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage of walled-off necrosis (WON) using either plastic or metal stents is the mainstay of WON management. Our single-center randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of biflanged metal stents (BFMSs) and plastic stents for WON drainage. METHODS:Patients with symptomatic WON amenable to EUS-guided drainage were randomized to receive either BFMSs or plastic stents. The primary outcome was reintervention-free clinical success at 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes were: overall clinical success (complete resolution of symptoms and significant reduction in size of WON [<50% of original size and <5 cm in largest diameter at 4-week follow-up]); number of reinterventions; adverse events (AEs); hospital stay for first admission; and medium-term outcomes at 6 months (recurrence, disconnected pancreatic duct, chronic pancreatitis, and new-onset diabetes mellitus). RESULTS:92 patients were randomized: 46 in each arm. The reintervention-free clinical success rate was significantly higher in the BFMS group on intention-to-treat analysis (67.4% vs. 43.5%; = 0.02). Overall clinical success at 1 month was similar in both groups. There were significantly fewer reinterventions (median 0 [IQR 0-1] vs. 1 [0-2]; = 0.03) and shorter hospital stays in the BFMS group (7.0 [SD 3.4] vs. 9.1 [5.5] days; = 0.04). There were no differences in procedure-related AEs, mortality, or medium-term outcomes. CONCLUSIONS:BFMSs provide better reintervention-free clinical success at 4 weeks, with shorter hospital stay and without increased risks of AEs, compared with plastic stents for EUS-guided drainage of WON. Medium-term outcomes are however similar for both stent types.

BACKGROUND:Currently data on the risk of progression to and lifetime risk of cancer are not available for patients with young onset Barrett's esophagus (BE). Our aim was to obtain epidemiologic data on the incidence of dysplasia or adenocarcinoma in young onset BE in the Netherlands by collecting data on all histologically confirmed cases over a prolonged period of 25 years between January 1, 1991 and December 31, 2015. METHODS:Data were obtained from the Dutch National Pathology Registry. Patients were included if there was a suspicion of BE visualized in the esophagus during the endoscopic examination in combination with a concordant histologic diagnosis of intestinal metaplasia. RESULTS:231 patients with early onset BE were identified (median age 26 years [range 0-29 years]), with 17 progressing to dysplasia (6 prevalent and 11 incident). For the patients with incident dysplasia, the median surveillance time between the diagnosis of early onset BE and diagnosis of dysplasia was 5 years (range 0-16 years). The incidence rate of dysplasia was 7.3 per 1000 person-years. There were three patients who developed adenocarcinoma (1 prevalent and 2 incident), who were diagnosed at ages 28, 35, and 36 years. The incidence rate of adenocarcinoma was 1.3 per 1000 person-years. CONCLUSIONS:In this 25-year period, 231 patients were diagnosed with early onset BE in the Netherlands, with 17 patients progressing to dysplasia and three developing adenocarcinoma. This corresponded to incidence rates of 7.3 per 1000 person-years for dysplasia and 1.3 per 1000 person-years for adenocarcinoma.

BACKGROUND:Previous studies suggested that antireflux mucosectomy (ARMS) is effective in reducing reflux symptoms and total acid exposure, although the mechanism is unknown. Our objective was to investigate the effect of ARMS on reflux parameters and its mechanism of action. METHODS:Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients with insufficient symptom control despite a twice-daily proton pump inhibitor (PPI) underwent a piecemeal multiband mucosectomy of 50% of the circumference of the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), extending 2 cm into the cardia. The primary end point was the total number of reflux episodes during 24-hour pH-impedance studies. RESULTS:11 patients (8 men; median age 37 [interquartile range (IQR) 32-57] years) were treated, with one patient subsequently lost to follow-up. ARMS reduced the median (IQR) number of total reflux episodes (74 [60-82] vs. 37 [28-66]; P = 0.008) and total acid exposure time (8.7% [6.4%-12.7%] vs. 5.3% [3.5%-6.7%]; P = 0.03). Treatment reduced the median (IQR) number of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs) during a 90-minute postprandial period (4 [1-8] vs. 2 [1-4]; P = 0.03) and reflux symptom scores (3.6 [3.6-3.9] vs. 1.6 [0.7-2.7]; = 0.005). Treatment did not increase the mean (SD) dysphagia scores (8.2 [7.3] vs. 8.5 [6.5]) or change the EGJ distensibility on impedance planimetry (4.4 [2.1] vs. 4.3 [2.2] mm2/mmHg). One delayed post-procedural bleed requiring repeat endoscopy occurred (10%); no strictures developed. CONCLUSION:ARMS is an effective treatment option in PPI-refractory GERD, reducing acid exposure, reflux episodes, and symptoms. While its working mechanism could not be explained by a difference in distensibility, a reduction in TLESRs might play a role.

1:  The European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) adheres to the overarching principles of equality of opportunity, fair treatment, nondiscrimination, and diversity of health care professionals. 2:  ESGE strongly supports the creation of collaborations within and between national and international endoscopy societies to disseminate the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) in the field of gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. 3:  ESGE aims to reflect the diversity of its membership in all its scientific and educational activities. 4:  ESGE supports the fostering of collaborative work settings that empower all members of the endoscopy team to reach their full potential. 5:  ESGE supports international and national endoscopy societies in promoting equitable access to high quality endoscopy training. 6:  ESGE recommends the implementation of ergonomic principles in endoscopy units to prevent injuries and to provide adapted workplace conditions for personnel with disabilities and/or special needs. 7:  ESGE recommends comprehensive mentorship, that includes diverse backgrounds, and equitable sponsorship for professional development, training, and academic excellence. 8:  ESGE recommends that endoscopists actively identify, discuss, and attempt to accommodate reasonable patient preferences and expectations regarding endoscopy procedures. 9:  ESGE advocates for educational and awareness campaigns targeting both health care professionals and patients, as well as the adoption of cost-effective health care strategies to address disparities and enhance equity in endoscopy care. 10:  ESGE is committed to increasing support for underrepresented scholars and minorities pursuing research in endoscopy. 11:  ESGE identifies mentorship and sponsorship as factors that may mitigate the barriers to academic careers for underrepresented endoscopy scholars. 12:  ESGE recognizes the need to increase awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the field of endoscopy and supports publications on these topics.

BACKGROUND:Endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy (EUS-HGS) is an alternative for biliary drainage in patients with obstructive pancreaticobiliary pathology when endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is not feasible. Despite its effectiveness, EUS-HGS is associated with a significant risk of adverse events. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a newly designed dedicated cautery-enhanced tubular self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) for EUS-HGS. METHODS:This multicenter prospective study included patients with malignant biliary obstruction in whom ERCP had failed because of tumor infiltration, inability to drain the intrahepatic ducts, or surgically altered anatomy. A dedicated cautery-enhanced tubular SEMS was used for EUS-HGS. Technical and clinical success rates, procedure times, and adverse events were evaluated. RESULTS:20 patients underwent EUS-HGS with the dedicated stent. Technical and clinical success rates of 100% were achieved, with no reported severe adverse events or mortality. The median procedure time was 16 minutes. Recurrent biliary obstruction was observed in 1 patient. CONCLUSIONS:The dedicated cautery-enhanced tubular SEMS for EUS-HGS can simplify the procedure and enhance its safety and efficacy. This innovation shows promise for improving patient outcomes, although further studies are needed to validate these findings in a broader patient population.

BACKGROUND:Adenoma surveillance guidelines are based on non-fecal immunochemical test (FIT)-based screening settings. However, colorectal cancer (CRC) risk may be different in FIT-positive screening populations. We evaluated the CRC and advanced adenoma risk within the recommended surveillance periods in the Danish FIT-based CRC screening program for participants with intermediate or high risk adenomas according to 2010 European guidelines. Furthermore, we estimated CRC risk for those who were not recommended surveillance according to European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) 2020 guidelines. METHODS:Using nationwide health registries, we identified 17 936 FIT-screening participants from 2014-2017 with adenomas undergoing surveillance (high risk 1 year, intermediate risk 3 years). Participants with a follow-up examination were included (N = 10 068). Relative risk (RR) of CRC and advance adenoma was compared between intermediate and high risk groups and between intermediates who were recommended surveillance (S) or no surveillance (NS) according to 2020 ESGE guidelines. RESULTS:During surveillance, CRC occurred in 0.59% of the high risk group and 1.11% of the intermediate risk group (RR 0.53 [95%CI 0.34-0.84]). The high risk group had a 24% increased risk of advanced adenoma. CRC occurred in 1.69% of the intermediateNS group and 0.87% of the intermediateS group (RR 1.94 [95%CI 1.18-3.21]), and RR for advanced adenoma was 1.19 (95%CI 1.03-1.37). CONCLUSION:CRC detection was lower among participants rated at higher risk at initial CRC screening. Findings at first screen-derived colonoscopy might not be as good a predictor of CRC risk in a FIT-positive screening population.

BACKGROUND: Computer-aided detection (CADe) has been developed to improve detection during colonoscopy. After initial reports of high efficacy, there has been an increasing recognition of variability in the effectiveness of CADe systems. The aim of this study was to evaluate a CADe system in a varied colonoscopy population. METHODS: A multicenter, randomized trial was conducted at seven hospitals (both university and non-university) in Europe and Canada. Participants referred for diagnostic, non-immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) screening, or surveillance colonoscopy were randomized (1:1) to undergo CADe-assisted or conventional colonoscopy by experienced endoscopists. Participants with insufficient bowel preparation were excluded from the analysis. The primary outcome was adenoma detection rate (ADR). Secondary outcomes included adenomas per colonoscopy (APC) and sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) per colonoscopy. RESULTS: 581 participants were enrolled, of whom 497 were included in the final analysis: 250 in the CADe arm and 247 in the conventional colonoscopy arm. The indication was surveillance in 202/497 colonoscopies (40.6 %), diagnostic in 199/497 (40.0 %), and non-iFOBT screening in 96/497 (19.3 %). Overall, ADR (38.4 % vs. 37.7 %;  = 0.43) and APC (0.66 vs. 0.66;  = 0.97) were similar between CADe and conventional colonoscopy. SSLs per colonoscopy was increased (0.30 vs. 0.19;  = 0.049) in the CADe arm vs. the conventional colonoscopy arm. CONCLUSIONS: In this study conducted by experienced endoscopists, CADe did not result in a statistically significant increase in ADR. However, the ADR of our control group substantially surpassed our sample size assumptions, increasing the risk of an underpowered trial.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) is an effective and safe technique for nonlifting colorectal lesions. Technical issues or failures with the full-thickness resection device (FTRD) system are reported, but there are no detailed data. The aim of our study was to quantify and classify FTRD technical failures. METHODS: We performed a retrospective study involving 17 Italian centers with experience in advanced resection techniques and the required devices. Each center shared and classified all prospectively collected consecutive failures during colorectal EFTR using the FTRD from 2018 to 2022. The primary outcome was the technical failure rate and their classification; secondary outcomes included subsequent management, clinical success, and complications. RESULTS: Included lesions were mainly recurrent (52 %), with a mean (SD) dimension of 18.4 (7.5) mm. Among 750 EFTRs, failures occurred in 77 patients (35 women; mean [SD] age 69.4 [8.9] years). A classification was proposed: type I, snare noncutting (53 %); type II, clip misdeployment (31 %); and type III, cap misplacement (16 %). Among endoscopic treatments completed, rescue endoscopic mucosal resection was performed in 57 patients (74 %), allowing en bloc and R0 resection in 71 % and 64 %, respectively. The overall adverse event rate was 27.3 %. Pooled estimates for the rates of failure, complications, and rescue endoscopic therapy were similar for low and high volume centers ( = 0.08,  = 0.70, and  = 0.71, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Colorectal EFTR with the FTRD is a challenging technique with a non-negligible rate of technical failure and complications. Experience in rescue resection techniques and multidisciplinary management are mandatory in this setting.

BACKGROUND:Surveillance colonoscopy after polyps have been detected at screening aims to reduce the risk for subsequent colorectal cancer, so-called post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer (PCCRC). Inconsistencies exist as to whether the risk should be stratified by histologic subtype. We aimed to compare the risk for PCCRC mortality in screening participants with sessile serrated lesions (SSLs)/traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs), hyperplastic polyps (HPPs), or conventional adenomas. METHODS:Screening colonoscopy registry data were linked to death registry data between 2010 and 2022. We assessed the association of PCCRC death after a diagnosis of SSL/TSA, conventional adenoma, or HPP by Cox regression, and stratified by polyp size ≥10 and <10 mm. RESULTS:383,801 participants were included in the analysis. There were 1490 HPPs ≥10 mm (2.6%), compared with 1853 SSL/TSAs (19.6%) and 10,960 conventional adenomas (12.9%). When adjusted for polyp location, the association of polyp size ≥10 mm with PCCRC death was of similar magnitude in participants with conventional adenomas (hazard ratio [HR] 3.68, 95%CI 2.49-5.44), SSL/TSAs (HR 2.55, 95%CI 1.13-5.72), and HPPs (HR 5.01, 95%CI 2.45-10.22). Participants with HPPs mostly died of tumors in the distal colon (54.1%; n = 20), while participants with SSL/TSAs more frequently died of proximal tumors (33.3%; n = 3). CONCLUSIONS:Across all histologic types, participants with polyps ≥10 mm had at least a two-fold increase in the likelihood of PCCRC death compared with those with polyps <10 mm. These data suggest that size, rather than histologic subtype, should be a determinant for risk stratification after screening colonoscopy.

BACKGROUND:Endoscopic transmural drainage (ETD) using double-pigtail stents (DPSs) is a well-established treatment for walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WON). This study aimed to compare outcomes in patients undergoing ETD with DPSs left indwelling versus those where stents were removed or migrated. METHODS:This retrospective multicenter cohort study included patients with WON who underwent ETD using DPSs between July 2001 and December 2019. The primary outcome was recurrence of a pancreatic fluid collection (PFC). Secondary outcomes were long-term complications and recurrence-associated factors. Competing risk regression analysis considered DPS removal or migration as time-varying covariates. RESULTS:Among 320 patients (median age 58; 36% women), DPSs were removed in 153 (47.8%), migrated spontaneously in 27 (8.4%), and remained indwelling in 140 (43.8%). PFC recurrence was observed in 57 patients (17.8%): after removal (n = 39; 25.5%); after migration (n = 4; 14.8%); in patients with indwelling DPSs (n = 14; 10.0%). In 25 patients (7.8%), drainage of recurrent PFC was indicated. Risk factors for recurrence were DPS removal or migration (hazard ratio [HR] 3.45, 95%CI 1.37-8.70) and presence of a disconnected pancreatic duct (HR 5.08, 95%CI 1.84-14.0). CONCLUSIONS:Among patients who undergo ETD of WON, leaving DPSs in situ seems to lower the risk of recurrent fluid collections, without any long-term DPS-related complications. These results suggest that DPSs should not be routinely removed and can be safely left indwelling indefinitely.

BACKGROUND:Society guidelines on colorectal dysplasia screening, surveillance, and endoscopic management in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are complex, and physician adherence to them is suboptimal. We aimed to evaluate the use of ChatGPT, a large language model, in generating accurate guideline-based recommendations for colorectal dysplasia screening, surveillance, and endoscopic management in IBD in line with European Crohn's and Colitis Organization (ECCO) guidelines. METHODS:30 clinical scenarios in the form of free text were prepared and presented to three separate sessions of ChatGPT and to eight gastroenterologists (four IBD specialists and four non-IBD gastroenterologists). Two additional IBD specialists subsequently assessed all responses provided by ChatGPT and the eight gastroenterologists, judging their accuracy according to ECCO guidelines. RESULTS:ChatGPT had a mean correct response rate of 87.8%. Among the eight gastroenterologists, the mean correct response rates were 85.8% for IBD experts and 89.2% for non-IBD experts. No statistically significant differences in accuracy were observed between ChatGPT and all gastroenterologists (=0.95), or between ChatGPT and the IBD experts and non-IBD expert gastroenterologists, respectively (=0.82). CONCLUSIONS:This study highlights the potential of language models in enhancing guideline adherence regarding colorectal dysplasia in IBD. Further investigation of additional resources and prospective evaluation in real-world settings are warranted.

Scirrhous gastric cancer (SGC) is diagnosed using endoscopy and/or biopsy; however, SGC diagnosis remains challenging owing to its special growth form and morphologic features. Hence, endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA), which is minimally invasive and has a high proportion of diagnostic tissue, may be an alternative investigative modality for patients with suspected SGC. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify and evaluate the evidence for the efficacy and safety of EUS-FNA in patients with suspected SGC. We conducted a systematic review using the PubMed (MEDLINE) and Ichushi-Web (NPO Japan Medical Abstracts Society) databases and included all entries in which SGC was evaluated using EUS-FNA in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement from the databases' inception to October 10, 2022. The primary outcome was the proportion of SGC diagnosed using EUS-FNA. In addition, we analyzed the proportion of adverse events associated with EUS-FNA. The electronic search identified 1890 studies; overall, four studies met the selection criteria and reported data on EUS-FNA performed on 114 patients with suspected SGC. The overall diagnostic yield of EUS-FNA for SGC was 82.6% (95% confidence interval, 74.6-90.6%) and the statistical heterogeneity was 0% (  = 0%), indicating a low heterogeneity. Furthermore, the EUS-FNA diagnostic proportion for SGC lymph node metastasis was 75-100%, indicating a high diagnostic performance. The adverse event rate of EUS-FNA was 0%. EUS-FNA may be an alternative investigation mode for SGC patients with negative esophagogastroduodenoscopy-biopsy results.

BACKGROUND:Sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Data on the prevalence of SSLs in Asia are limited. We performed this study to estimate the prevalence of SSLs in Asia and to explore endoscopic factors that are associated with SSL detection. METHODS:This is a post-hoc analysis of a multicenter randomized controlled trial from four Asian countries/regions that compared adenoma detection rates using linked-color imaging (LCI) and white-light imaging. Colonoscopies were performed in an average-risk population for screening, diagnostic examination, or polyp surveillance. Patients with SSLs were compared against those without SSLs to evaluate for possible predictors of SSL detection using Firth's logistic regression. RESULTS:2898 participants (mean age 64.5 years) were included in the analysis. The estimated prevalence of SSLs was 4.0% (95%CI 3.4%-4.8%), with no sex or age group differences. On multivariable analysis, use of LCI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.63, 95%CI 1.10-2.41), experienced endoscopists (aOR 1.94, 95%CI 1.25-3.00), use of transparent cap (aOR 1.75, 95%CI 1.09-2.81), and longer withdrawal time (aOR 1.06, 95%CI 1.03-1.10) were independently associated with SSL detection. Synchronous adenoma detection (aOR 1.89, 95%CI 1.20-2.99) was also predictive of SSL detection. CONCLUSION:The prevalence of SSLs in Asia is 4.0%. Use of LCI or a transparent cap, greater endoscopist experience, and longer withdrawal time were all associated with increased SSL detection.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS:Several studies have shown improved short-term outcome with endoscopic transmural drainage and necrosectomy for the treatment of walled-off pancreatic necrosis. However, knowledge on the long-term prognosis after such treatment is limited. The aim of present study was to evaluate long-term outcomes in patients endoscopically treated with transmural drainage and necrosectomy. METHODS:We retrospectively follow up 125 patients with walled-off pancreatic necrosis treated with endoscopic transmural drainage and necrosectomy in 2010-2017. All patients received plastic pigtail stents and nasocystic catheter. Additional external drainage was performed in 41 patients. Main outcomes were survival, pancreatic function, development of co-morbidities, ability to work and social status. RESULTS:During a median follow-up of 4.3 years, nine (7%) patients died. Seven deaths were unrelated to pancreatic disease, and two patients died of pancreatic cancer. Twenty-two (18%) patients developed exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Thirty-six (32%) previous non-diabetics developed endocrine insufficiency. Endoscopic necrosectomy during admission (odds ratio (OR) = 1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05-1.56;  = 0.015) and therapy on the main pancreatic duct (OR = 8.08, 95% CI 2.43-26.9;  < 0.001) during follow-up predicted development of exocrine insufficiency. Severity on computed tomography predicted endocrine insufficiency (OR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.24-2.09;  < 0.001). Most patients regained their working capacity and preserved their marital status. CONCLUSIONS:This study provides robust data on the long-term outcome of patients with walled-off pancreatic necrosis treated with endoscopic transmural drainage and necrosectomy. The favourable outcomes on survival, pancreatic function and social status support current recommendations of endoscopic transmural drainage and necrosectomy being the treatment of choice for walled-off pancreatic necrosis.

BACKGROUND:First-line over-the-scope (OTS) clip treatment has shown higher efficacy than standard endoscopic therapy in acute nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) from different causes. We compared OTS clips with through-the-scope (TTS) clips as first-line mechanical treatment in the specific setting of peptic ulcer bleeding. METHODS:We conducted an international, multicenter randomized controlled trial on consecutive patients with suspected NVUGIB. Patients with Forrest Ia-IIb gastroduodenal peptic ulcer were randomized 1:1 to OTS clip or TTS clip treatment. The primary outcome was the rate of 30-day rebleeding after successful initial hemostasis. Secondary outcomes included the rates of successful initial hemostasis and overall clinical success, defined as the composite of successful initial hemostasis and no evidence of 30-day rebleeding. RESULTS:251 patients were screened and 112 patients were randomized to OTS (n = 61) or TTS (n = 51) clip treatment. The 30-day rebleeding rates were 1.6% (1/61) and 3.9% (2/51) in patients treated with OTS clips and TTS clips, respectively (Kaplan-Meier log-rank, = 0.46). Successful initial hemostasis rates were 98.4% (60/61) in the OTS clip group and 78.4% (40/51) in the TTS clip group ( = 0.001). Overall clinical success rates were 96.7% (59/61) with OTS clips and 74.5% (38/51) with TTS clips ( = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS:Low rates of 30-day rebleeding were observed after first-line endoscopic treatment of acute peptic ulcer bleeding with either OTS or TTS clips. However, OTS clips showed higher efficacy than TTS clips in achieving successful initial hemostasis and overall clinical success.

BACKGROUND:This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of salvage endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for Barrett's neoplasia recurrence after radiofrequency ablation (RFA). METHODS:Data from patients at 16 centers were collected for a multicenter retrospective study. Patients who underwent at least one RFA treatment for Barrett's esophagus and thereafter underwent further esophageal ESD for neoplasia recurrence were included. RESULTS:Data from 56 patients who underwent salvage ESD between April 2014 and November 2022 were collected. Immediate complications included one muscular tear (1.8%) treated with stent (Agree classification: grade IIIa). Two transmural perforations (3.6%; treated with clips) and five muscular tears (8.9%; two treated with clips) had no clinical impact and were not considered as adverse events. Seven patients (12.5%) developed strictures (grade IIIa), which were treated with balloon dilation. Histological analysis showed 36 adenocarcinoma, 17 high grade dysplasia, and 3 low grade dysplasia. En bloc and R0 resection rates were 89.3% and 66.1%, respectively. Resections were curative in 33 patients (58.9%), and noncurative in 22 patients (39.3%), including 11 "local risk" (19.6%) and 11 "high risk" (19.6%) resections. At the end of follow-up with a median time of 14 (0-75) months after salvage ESD, and with further endoscopic treatment if necessary (RFA, argon plasma coagulation, endoscopic mucosal resection, ESD), neoplasia remission ratio was 37/53 (69.8%) and the median remission time was 13 (1-75) months. CONCLUSION:In expert hands, salvage ESD was a safe and effective treatment for recurrence of Barrett's neoplasia after RFA treatment.

BACKGROUND:This study evaluated the effect of an artificial intelligence (AI)-based clinical decision support system on the performance and diagnostic confidence of endoscopists in their assessment of Barrett's esophagus (BE). METHODS:96 standardized endoscopy videos were assessed by 22 endoscopists with varying degrees of BE experience from 12 centers. Assessment was randomized into two video sets: group A (review first without AI and second with AI) and group B (review first with AI and second without AI). Endoscopists were required to evaluate each video for the presence of Barrett's esophagus-related neoplasia (BERN) and then decide on a spot for a targeted biopsy. After the second assessment, they were allowed to change their clinical decision and confidence level. RESULTS:AI had a stand-alone sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 92.2%, 68.9%, and 81.3%, respectively. Without AI, BE experts had an overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 83.3%, 58.1%, and 71.5%, respectively. With AI, BE nonexperts showed a significant improvement in sensitivity and specificity when videos were assessed a second time with AI (sensitivity 69.8% [95%CI 65.2%-74.2%] to 78.0% [95%CI 74.0%-82.0%]; specificity 67.3% [95%CI 62.5%-72.2%] to 72.7% [95%CI 68.2%-77.3%]). In addition, the diagnostic confidence of BE nonexperts improved significantly with AI. CONCLUSION:BE nonexperts benefitted significantly from additional AI. BE experts and nonexperts remained significantly below the stand-alone performance of AI, suggesting that there may be other factors influencing endoscopists' decisions to follow or discard AI advice.

BACKGROUND:The optimal treatment for malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) remains uncertain. This systematic review aimed to comprehensively investigate the efficacy and safety of four palliative treatments for malignant GOO: gastrojejunostomy, endoscopic ultrasound-guided gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE), stomach-partitioning gastrojejunostomy (PGJ), and endoscopic stenting. METHODS:We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies comparing the four treatments for malignant GOO. We included studies that reported at least one of the following clinical outcomes: clinical success, 30-day mortality, reintervention rate, or length of hospital stay. Evidence from RCTs and non-RCTs was naïve combined to perform network meta-analysis through the frequentist approach using an inverse variance model. Treatments were ranked by P score. RESULTS:This network meta-analysis included 3617 patients from 4 RCTs, 4 prospective cohort studies, and 32 retrospective cohort studies. PGJ was the optimal approach in terms of clinical success and reintervention (P scores: 0.95 and 0.90, respectively). EUS-GE had the highest probability of being the optimal treatment in terms of 30-day mortality and complications (P scores: 0.82 and 0.99, respectively). Cluster ranking to combine the P scores for 30-day mortality and reintervention indicated the benefits of PGJ and EUS-GE (cophenetic correlation coefficient: 0.94; PGJ and EUS-GE were in the same cluster). CONCLUSION:PGJ and EUS-GE are recommended for malignant GOO. PGJ could be the alternative choice in centers with limited resources or in patients who are unsuitable for EUS-GE.

INTRODUCTION: The environmental impact of endoscopy, including small-bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE), is a topic of growing attention and concern. This study aimed to evaluate the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (kgCO) generated by an SBCE procedure. METHODS: Life cycle assessment methodology (ISO 14040) was used to evaluate three brands of SBCE device and included emissions generated by patient travel, bowel preparation, capsule examination, and video recording. A survey of 87 physicians and 120 patients was conducted to obtain data on travel, activities undertaken during the procedure, and awareness of environmental impacts. RESULTS: The capsule itself (4 g) accounted for < 6 % of the total product weight. Packaging (43-119 g) accounted for 9 %-97 % of total weight, and included deactivation magnets (5 g [4 %-6 %]) and paper instructions (11-50 g [up to 40 %]). A full SBCE procedure generated approximately 20 kgCO, with 0.04 kgCO (0.2 %) attributable to the capsule itself and 18 kgCO (94.7 %) generated by patient travel. Capsule retrieval using a dedicated device would add 0.98 kgCO to the carbon footprint. Capsule deconstruction revealed materials (e. g. neodymium) that are prohibited from environmental disposal; 76 % of patients were not aware of the illegal nature of capsule disposal via wastewater, and 63 % would have been willing to retrieve it. The carbon impact of data storage and capsule reading was negligible. CONCLUSION: The carbon footprint of SBCE is mainly determined by patient travel. The capsule device itself has a relatively low carbon footprint. Given that disposal of capsule components via wastewater is illegal, retrieval of the capsule is necessary but would likely be associated with an increase in device-related emissions.

BACKGROUND:Missed lesions are common during standard colonoscopy and are correlated with post-colonoscopy colorectal cancer. Contrast-enhanced technologies have recently been developed to improve polyp detection. We aimed to evaluate the impact of linked color imaging (LCI) on the proximal adenoma miss rate in routine colonoscopy. METHODS:This national, multicenter, tandem, randomized trial compared the outcomes of colonoscopy with white-light imaging (WLI) versus LCI for polyp detection in the right colon. Two consecutive examinations of the right colon (upstream of the hepatic flexure) were made with WLI and LCI by the same operator. First-pass examination by WLI or LCI was randomized 1:1 after cecal intubation. According to statistical calculations, 10 endoscopy units had to include approximately 700 patients. The primary outcome was proximal adenoma miss rate. Secondary outcomes were the proximal miss rates for sessile serrated lesions (SSL), advanced adenomas, and polyps. RESULTS:764 patients were included from 1 January 2020 to 22 December 2022, and 686 patients were randomized (345 WLI first vs. 341 LCI first). Both groups were comparable in terms of demographics and indications. The proximal adenoma miss rate was not significantly higher in the WLI-first group (36.7%) vs. the LCI-first group (31.8%) (estimated mean absolute difference: 4.9% [95%CI -5.2% to 15.0%], P = 0.34). There was also no significant difference in miss rates for SSLs, advanced adenomas, and polyps in the proximal colon. CONCLUSIONS:In contrast to previous data, this study does not support the benefit of LCI to the proximal adenoma miss rate in routine colonoscopy.

BACKGROUND:The ileocecal valve (ICV) is considered to be one of the most difficult locations for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of traction-assisted ESD in this situation. METHODS:All patients who underwent traction-assisted ESD for an ICV lesion at three centers were identified from a prospective ESD database. En bloc and R0 rates were evaluated. Factors associated with non-R0 resection were explored. RESULTS:106 patients with an ICV lesion were included. The median lesion size was 50 mm (interquartile range 38-60) and 58.5% (62/106) invaded the terminal ileum. The en bloc and R0 resection rates were 94.3% and 76.4%, respectively. Factors associated with non-R0 resection were lesions covering ≥75% of the ICV (odds ratio [OR] 0.21. 95%CI 0.06-0.76; P=0.02), and involving the anal lip (OR 0.36, 95%CI 0.13-0.99; P=0.04) or more than two sites on the ICV (OR 0.27, 95%CI 0.07-0.99; P=0.03). CONCLUSION:Traction-assisted ESD for treatment of ICV lesions was a safe and feasible option. Large lesions and anal lip involvement appeared to be factors predictive of difficulty.

BACKGROUND: Recognition of submucosal invasive colorectal cancer (T1 CRC) is difficult, with sensitivities of 35 %-60 % in Western countries. We evaluated the real-life effects of training in the OPTICAL model, a recently developed structured and validated prediction model, in Dutch community hospitals. METHODS: In this prospective multicenter study (OPTICAL II), 383 endoscopists from 40 hospitals were invited to follow an e-learning program on the OPTICAL model, to increase sensitivity in detecting T1 CRC in nonpedunculated polyps. Real-life recognition of T1 CRC was then evaluated in 25 hospitals. Endoscopic and pathologic reports of T1 CRCs detected during the next year were collected retrospectively, with endoscopists unaware of this evaluation. Sensitivity for T1 CRC recognition, R0 resection rate, and treatment modality were compared for trained vs. untrained endoscopists. RESULTS: 1 year after e-learning, 528 nonpedunculated T1 CRCs were recorded for endoscopies performed by 251 endoscopists (118 [47 %] trained). Median T1 CRC size was 20 mm. Lesions were mainly located in the distal colorectum (66 %). Trained endoscopists recognized T1 CRCs more frequently than untrained endoscopists (sensitivity 74 % vs. 62 %; mixed model analysis odds ratio [OR] 2.90, 95 %CI 1.54-5.45). R0 resection rate was higher for T1 CRCs detected by trained endoscopists (69 % vs. 56 %; OR 1.73, 95 %CI 1.03-2.91). CONCLUSION: Training in optical recognition of T1 CRCs in community hospitals was associated with increased recognition of T1 CRCs, leading to higher en bloc and R0 resection rates. This may be an important step toward more organ-preserving strategies.

BACKGROUND:Surveillance of nondysplastic Barrett's esophagus (NDBE) is recommended to identify progression to dysplasia; however, the most cost-effective strategy remains unclear. Mutation of or aberrant expression of p53 have been associated with the development of dysplasia in BE. We sought to determine if surveillance intervals for BE could be stratified based on p53 expression. METHODS:A Markov model was developed for NDBE. Patients with NDBE underwent p53 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and those with abnormal p53 expression underwent surveillance endoscopy at 1 year, while patients with normal p53 expression underwent surveillance in 3 years. Patients with dysplasia underwent endoscopic therapy and surveillance. RESULTS:On base-case analysis, the strategy of stratifying surveillance based on abnormal p53 IHC was cost-effective relative to conventional surveillance and a natural history model, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $8258 for p53 IHC-based surveillance. Both the conventional and p53-stratified surveillance strategies dominated the natural history model. On probabilistic sensitivity analysis, the p53 IHC strategy ($28 652; 16.78 quality-adjusted life years [QALYs]) was more cost-effective than conventional surveillance ($25 679; 16.17 QALYs) with a net monetary benefit of $306 873 compared with conventional surveillance ($297 642), with an ICER <$50 000 in 96% of iterations. The p53-stratification strategy was associated with a 14% reduction in the overall endoscopy burden and a 59% increase in dysplasia detection. CONCLUSION:A surveillance strategy for BE based on abnormal p53 IHC is cost-effective relative to a conventional surveillance strategy and is likely to be associated with higher rates of dysplasia diagnosis.

BACKGROUND:Disposable digital single-operator cholangioscopy (D-SOC) and direct peroral cholangioscopy (D-POC) using an ultraslim endoscope are established POC modalities for the diagnosis and treatment of various biliary diseases. We compared the usefulness of D-SOC and D-POC for the diagnosis of intraductal superficial lesions of the bile duct (ISL-Bs). METHODS:38 consecutive patients with suspected biliary diseases who underwent both D-SOC and D-POC were enrolled. The primary outcome was ISL-B detection rate, and the secondary outcomes were technical success of POC and POC-guided forceps biopsy sampling (POC-FB), procedure time, visualization quality, and tissue adequacy. RESULTS:D-SOC had a higher technical success rate than D-POC but the difference was not statistically significant (100% vs. 92.1%, P = 0.25). D-POC had a marginally higher ISL-B detection rate (34.2% vs. 28.9%, P = 0.68) and significantly higher visualization quality (P = 0.03). The mean (SD) procedure time was significantly shorter with D-SOC (11.00 [1.33] vs. 19.03 [2.95] minutes, P<0.001). The technical success rate of POC-FB and tissue adequacy did not differ between the two techniques (D-SOC vs. D-POC: 81.8% vs. 84.6%, P = 0.69 and 77.8% vs. 90.9%, P = 0.57, respectively). CONCLUSIONS:Both POC systems were safe and useful for the detection, characterization, and diagnosis of minute ISL-Bs. While D-SOC displayed a shorter procedure time and a tendency for higher technical success rate, D-POC provided superior visualization quality, allowing detailed observation of the surface structure and microvascular patterns.