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Background and aim Endoscopic submucosal dissection and transanal endoscopic microsurgery are good options for the treatment of rectal adenomas and early rectal carcinomas, but whether long-term outcomes of these procedures are comparable is not known. The aim of this study was to address this question. Methods A retrospective single-center study evaluating 98 consecutive procedures between June 2008 and December 2017 was performed in a tertiary cancer center. Consecutive patients who had undergone either endoscopic submucosal resection or transanal endoscopic microsurgery for rectal adenomas and early rectal carcinomas were evaluated, and long-term recurrence and complication rates were compared. Results Both groups were similar regarding sex, age, preoperative surgical risk, and en bloc resection rate (95.7% in the endoscopic and 100% in the surgical group, P = 0.81). Mean follow-up period was 37.6 months. Lesions resected endoscopically were significantly larger (68.5 mm) than those resected by transanal resection (44.5 mm), P = 0.003. Curative resections occurred in 97.2% of endoscopic resections and 85.2% of the surgical ones (P = 0.04). Comparing resections that fulfilled histologic curative criteria, there were no recurrences in the endoscopic group (out of 69 cases) and two recurrences in the transanal group (8.3% of 24 cases), P = 0.06. Late complications occurred in 12.7% of endoscopic procedures and 25.9% of surgical procedures (P = 0.13). Conclusions In our experience, endoscopic submucosal resection seems to have advantages over transanal endoscopic microsurgery, with similar en bloc resection rate and lower rate of late complications and recurrences. Multicenter randomized controlled trials are needed to support our findings.

BACKGROUND Biliary complications remain one of the most important causes of morbidity and graft loss after liver transplant (LT). Endoscopic therapy of biliary complications has proven to be effective over time, leaving surgical treatment restricted to only very few cases. However, we cannot yet predict which patients will have the greatest potential to benefit from endoscopic treatment. OBJECTIVE On this premise we decide to conduct this study to evaluate the role and safety of single operator cholangioscopy (SOC) in the endoscopic treatment of post-LT biliary anastomotic strictures (AS). METHODS: Between March/2016 and June/2017, 20 consecutive patients referred for endoscopic treatment for biliary anastomotic stricture were included in this prospective observational cohort study. Inclusion criteria were age over 18 years old, and a deceased LT performed within at least 30 days. Exclusion criteria were non-anastomotic biliary stricture, biliary leakage, cast syndrome, any previous endoscopic therapy, pregnancy and inability to provide informed consent. All patients underwent SOC before endoscopic therapy with fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) and after stent removal. RESULTS: At pre-treatment SOC, stricture orifice and fibrotic changes could be visualized in all patients, vascular changes and surgical sutures in 60% and acute inflammatory changes in 30%. SOC was essential for guidewire placement in five cases. FCSEMS was successfully deployed in all patients. Stricture resolution rate was 44.4% (median stent indwelling 372 days). Stricture recurrence was 12.5% (median follow-up of 543 days). Adverse events were distal (66.6%) and proximal (5.5%) stent migration, stent occlusion (16.6%), severe abdominal pain (10%) and mild acute pancreatitis (10%). SOC was repeated after FCSEMS removal. Post-treatment SOC showed fibrotic changes in all but one patient; vascular and acute inflammatory changes were less frequent in comparison to index procedure. The disappearance of suture material was remarkable. None of the cholangioscopic findings were statistically correlated to treatment outcome or stricture recurrence. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography with SOC is feasible in post-LT patients with AS. Cholangioscopic findings can be classified into fibrotic, vascular and acute inflammatory changes. Cholangioscopy may be helpful to assist guidewire passage, but Its overall role for changing management is post-LT patients was not demonstrated. RESUMO CONTEXTO: As complicações biliares continuam sendo uma das principais causas de morbidade e perda do enxerto após o transplante hepático. O tratamento endoscópico das complicações biliares provou ser eficaz ao longo do tempo, deixando o tratamento cirúrgico restrito a casos de exceção. No entanto, ainda não podemos prever quais pacientes terão maior potencial de se beneficiar da terapia endoscópica. OBJETIVO: Nesta premissa, decidimos realizar este estudo para avaliar o papel e a segurança da colangioscopia peroral de operador único (CPO) no tratamento endoscópico das estenoses anastomóticas biliares (EA) pós-transplante hepático. MÉTODOS: Entre março de 2016 e junho de 2017, 20 pacientes consecutivos encaminhados para tratamento endoscópico da EA biliar foram incluídos neste estudo prospectivo de coorte observacional. Os critérios de inclusão foram idade superior a 18 anos e um transplante hepático de doador falecido realizado há pelo menos 30 dias. Pacientes com estenose biliar não anastomótica, fístula biliar, “cast” síndrome, qualquer terapia endoscópica prévia, gravidez e incapacidade de fornecer consentimento informado foram excluídos. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à CPO antes da terapia endoscópica com prótese metálica autoexpansível totalmente coberta (PMAEC) e após a sua remoção. RESULTADOS: Na CPO realizada antes do tratamento endoscópico, o orifício de estenose e alterações fibróticas foram visualizadas em todos os pacientes, alterações vasculares e a presença de suturas cirúrgicas em 60%, enquanto alterações inflamatórias agudas em 30%. A CPO foi determinante para a transposição do fio-guia através da estenose em cinco casos. Uma PMAEC foi implantada com sucesso em todos os pacientes. A taxa de resolução da estenose foi de 44,4% (tempo médio de permanência de 372 dias). A recorrência da EA foi de 12,5% (acompanhamento médio de 543 dias). Os eventos adversos foram migração distal (66,6%) e proximal (5,5%) da prótese metálica, oclusão da PMAEC (16,6%), dor abdominal intensa (10%) e pancreatite aguda leve (10%). A CPO foi repetida após a remoção da PMAEC. A colangioscopia realizada após o tratamento endoscópico mostrou alterações fibróticas em todos, exceto em um paciente; alterações vasculares e inflamatórias agudas foram menos frequentes em comparação à CPO inicial. O desaparecimento do material de sutura, observado em todos os casos, foi notável. Nenhum dos achados colangioscópicos foram estatisticamente correlacionados ao resultado do tratamento ou à recorrência de estenose. CONCLUSÃO: A colangioscopia peroral é viável nos pacientes pós-transplante hepático com estenose biliar anastomótica. Os achados colangioscópicos podem ser classificados em alterações inflamatórias agudas, fibróticas e vasculares. A colangioscopia pode ser útil para auxiliar na passagem do fio-guia, mas seu papel geral na mudança de tratamento nos pacientes pós-transplante hepático não foi demonstrado.

BACKGROUND: Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) has emerged as a revolutionary method allowing resection of colorectal lesions without submucosal injection. Brazilian literature about this technique is sparse. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was evaluate the efficacy and safety of UEMR technique for removing non-pedunculated colorectal lesions in two Brazilian tertiary centers. METHODS: This prospective study was conducted between June 2016 and May 2017. Naïve and non-pedunculated lesions without signs of submucosal invasion were resected using UEMR technique. RESULTS: A total of 55 patients with 65 lesions were included. All lesions, except one, were successfully and completely removed by UEMR (success rate 98.5%). During UEMR, two cases of bleeding were observed (3.0%). One patient had abdominal pain on the day after resection without pneumoperitoneum. There was no perforation or delayed bleeding. CONCLUSION: This study supports the existing data indicating acceptable rates of technical success, and low incidence of adverse events with UEMR. The results of this Brazilian study were consistent with previous abroad studies. RESUMO CONTEXTO: A ressecção endoscópica da mucosa sob imersão d’água (REMS) surgiu como um método revolucionário que permite a ressecção de lesões colorretais sem injeção submucosa. A literatura brasileira sobre essa técnica é escassa. OBJETIVO: A finalidade deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia e segurança da técnica REMS na remoção de lesões colorretais não pediculadas em dois centros terciários brasileiros. MÉTODOS: Este estudo prospectivo foi realizado entre junho de 2016 e maio de 2017. As lesões sem tentativa de ressecção prévia, não pediculadas e sem sinais de invasão submucosa foram ressecadas pela técnica REMS. RESULTADOS: Um total de 55 pacientes com 65 lesões foram incluídos. Todas as lesões, exceto uma, foram removidas com sucesso e completamente por REMS (taxa de sucesso de 98,5%). Durante a REMS, foram observados dois casos de sangramento (3,0%). Uma paciente apresentou dor abdominal no dia seguinte à ressecção sem pneumoperitônio. Não houve perfuração ou sangramento tardio. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo apoia os dados existentes, indicando taxas aceitáveis de sucesso técnico e baixa incidência de eventos adversos com a REMS. Os resultados deste estudo brasileiro foram consistentes com estudos internacionais prévios.

Background Although endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) has been successfully used to treat postoperative upper gastrointestinal (UGI) wall defects, its use demands special materials and several endoscopic treatment sessions. Herein, we propose a technical modification of EVT using a double tube (tube-in-tube drain) without polyurethane sponges for the drainage element. The tube-in-tube drainage device enables irrigation and application of suction. A flowchart for standardizing the management of postoperative UGI wall defects with this device is presented. Methods An EVT modification was made to achieve frequent fistula cleansing, with 3 % hydrogen peroxide rinsing, and the application of negative pressure. A tube-in-tube drain without polyurethane sponges can be inserted like a nasogastric tube or passed through a previously positioned surgical drain. This was a retrospective two-center observational study, with data collected from 30 consecutive patients. Technical success, clinical success, adverse events, time under therapy, interval time from procedure to fistula diagnosis and treatment start, size of transmural defect, volume of cavity, number of endoscopic treatment sessions, and mortality were reviewed. Results 30 patients with UGI wall defects were treated. The technical and clinical success rates were 100 % and 86.7 %, respectively. Three patients (10 %) had adverse events and three patients (10 %) died. The median time under therapy was of 19 days (range 1–70) and the median number of endoscopic sessions was 3 (range 1–9). Conclusions This standardized approach and EVT modification using a tube-in-tube drain, with frequent fistula cleansing, were successful and safe in a wide variety of UGI wall defects.

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: EUS-guided gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE) is a novel procedure for palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). Our aim was to evaluate the outcomes of this technique in our initial experience. METHODS: Patients with GOO from our institute were included. Technical success was defined as the successful creation of a gastroenterostomy. Clinical success was defined as the ability to tolerate a soft diet after the procedure. We assessed adverse events and diet tolerance 1 month after the procedure. RESULTS: Three patients were included. Technical and clinical success was achieved in all cases. There were no adverse events and good diet tolerance was observed 1 month after the procedure in the included patients. CONCLUSION: EUS-GE is a promising treatment for patients with GOO. RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: A gastroenterostomia ecoguiada é um novo procedimento para paliação da obstrução maligna gastroduodenal. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar os resultados dessa técnica em nossa experiência inicial. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos pacientes com obstrução maligna gastroduodenal de nossa instituição. O sucesso técnico foi definido como a realização adequada de uma gastroenterostomia. O sucesso clínico foi definido como boa aceitação de dieta pastosa durante a internação. Os eventos adversos e a aceitação alimentar foram avaliados um mês após o procedimento. RESULTADOS: Três pacientes foram incluídos. Os sucessos técnico e clínico foram alcançados em todos os casos. Não houve eventos adversos e a aceitação alimentar permaneceu adequada um mês após o procedimento nos pacientes incluídos. CONCLUSÃO: O EUS-GE é um tratamento promissor para pacientes com obstrução maligna gastroduodenal.

As doenças do fígado e das vias biliares são causas comuns de morbidade e mortalidade. Procedimentos invasivos com finalidade diagnóstica e terapêutica são frequentemente recomendados nos casos de doenças hepatobiliares. O reconhecimento das indicações e limitações das técnicas comumente empregadas é crucial para uma adequada seleção dos pacientes, maximizando os resultados positivos e reduzindo o risco de complicações. Em 2018, a Sociedade Brasileira de Hepatologia (SBH), em colaboração com a Sociedade Brasileira de Radiologia Intervencionista e Cirurgia Endovascular (SOBRICE) e a Sociedade Brasileira de Endoscopia Digestiva (SOBED) realizaram um encontro exclusivamente voltado para a discussão dos procedimentos invasivos nas doenças hepatobiliares. Este texto resume as principais recomendações discutidas durante o evento, e tem a intenção de auxiliar clínicos, gastroenterologistas, hepatologistas, radiologistas e endoscopistas no uso adequado dos procedimentos invasivos para manejo de pacientes com doenças hepatobiliares. Liver and biliary tract diseases are common causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Invasive procedures are usually performed in those patients with hepatobiliary diseases for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Defining proper indications and restraints of commonly used techniques is crucial for proper patient selection, maximizing positive results and limiting complications. In 2018, the Brazilian Society of Hepato­logy (SBH) in cooperation with the Brazilian Society of Interventional Radiology and Endovascular surgery (SOBRICE) and the Brazilian Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SOBED) sponsored a joint single-topic meeting on invasive procedures in patients with hepatobiliary diseases. This paper summarizes the proceedings of the aforementioned meeting. It is intended to guide clinicians, gastroenterologists, hepatologists, radiologists, and endoscopists for the proper use of invasive procedures for management of patients with hepatobiliary diseases.

Background - Adequate bowel preparation is critical for the quality of colonoscopy. Despite reported occurrence of colonic explosion due to methane and hydrogen production by bacterial fermentation during colonoscopy, gas exchange during the procedure is believed to be effective in lowering existing methane concentration, allowing for safe utilization of mannitol for bowel preparation. Thus, mannitol is widely used for bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopy, considering its low cost and effectiveness for bowel preparation. Objective - The aim of this study was to assess the safety of mannitol for bowel preparation, when compared to sodium phosphate (NaP). Methods - We conducted a prospective observational study in which 250 patients undergoing colonoscopy at Universidade Federal de São Paulo and Hospital Albert Einstein (São Paulo, Brazil) were approached for inclusion in the study. Patients received either mannitol (n=50) or NaP (n=200) for bowel preparation, based on physician indication. Study was conducted from August 2009 to December 2009. The main outcome of interest was presence of detectable levels of methane (CH4) during colonoscopy and reduction in such levels after gas exchange during the procedure. Methane concentrations were measured in three intestinal segments during scope introduction and withdrawal. Safety was assessed as the absence of high levels of methane, defined as 5%. Measurements were made using a multi-gas monitor (X-am 7000, Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA, Lübeck, Germany) connected to a plastic catheter introduced into the working channel of the colonoscope. Additional outcomes of interest included levels of O2. Methane and O2 levels are reported as ppm. Mean, difference and standard deviation of levels of gas measured in both moments were calculated and compared in both groups. Proportions of patients with detectable or high levels of methane in both groups were compared. Continuous variables were analyzed using t test and categorical variables using qui-square tests. The Ethics Committee in both study sites approved the study protocol. Results - Patients in both groups were similar regarding demographics, colonoscopy indication, ASA status and quality of bowel preparation. Seven (3.5%) patients in the NaP group had methane detected during introduction of the endoscope. Methane levels became undetectable during withdrawal of the scope. None of the patients in the mannitol group had detectable levels of methane. O2 levels did not differ in the groups. Conclusion - This is the largest study to assess the safety of mannitol for bowel preparation, considering methane measurements. Our results indicate that mannitol use is as safe as NaP, and gas exchange was efficient in reducing methane concentrations.

Elastography is a widely used procedure in conventional ultrasonography that has recently been incorporated in echoendoscopy. This is an innovative and promising technology that aims to increase the negative predictive value of endoscopic ultrasonography and fine-needle aspiration punctures. It is useful for directing punctures in suspect areas and, consequently, improves diagnostic performance. This is a non-invasive technique, easy to perform, without additional costs or complications. The main indications are the analysis of solid pancreatic masses, lymph nodes, subepithelial lesions, lesions in the left hepatic lobe and in the left adrenal. Negative or inconclusive cases of fine-needle aspiration can be submitted to elastography when there is a strong suspicion of malignancy. Elastography has a high precision for the differential diagnosis of solid masses and in difficult-to-access anatomic sites, as well as in mediastinal lymph nodes and pancreatic tumors. The procedure is based on the degree of tissue elasticity measurement, with a good correlation between the elasticity index and histopathological features. We report the case of four patients evaluated by echoendoscopy and qualitative elastography who had differential diagnoses in mediastinal lymph nodes: sarcoidosis, lymphoma, histoplasmosis and esophageal neoplasia. RESUMO A elastografia, procedimento difundido em ultrassonografia convencional, foi recentemente incorporada à ecoendoscopia. Trata-se de tecnologia inovadora e promissora, que visa aumentar o valor preditivo negativo da ultrassonografia endoscópica e das punções aspirativas com agulha fina. É útil para o direcionamento das punções em áreas suspeitas e, consequentemente, melhora o rendimento diagnóstico. Trata-se de técnica não invasiva, de fácil realização, sem custos adicionais ou complicações. As principais indicações são para análise de massas pancreáticas sólidas, linfonodos, lesões subepiteliais, lesões em lobo hepático esquerdo e em suprarrenal esquerda. Casos negativos ou inconclusivos das punções aspirativas com agulha fina podem ser submetidos à elastografia, quando há forte suspeita de malignidade. Tem alta precisão no diagnóstico diferencial de massas sólidas e em locais anatômicos de difícil acesso, como em linfonodos mediastinais e tumores pancreáticos. Baseia-se na quantificação do grau de elasticidade tecidual, com boa correlação entre o índice de elasticidade e as características histopatológicas. Relatamos quatro pacientes avaliados por ecoendoscopia e elastografia qualitativa com diagnósticos diferentes em linfonodos mediastinais: sarcoidose, linfoma, histoplasmose e neoplasia de esôfago.

The Brazilian Gastrointestinal Tumor Group developed guidelines for the surgical and clinical management of patients with billiary cancers. The multidisciplinary panel was composed of experts in the field of radiology, medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiotherapy, endoscopy and pathology. The panel utilized the most recent literature to develop a series of evidence-based recommendations on different treatment and diagnostic strategies for cholangiocarcinomas and gallbladder cancers. RESUMO O Grupo Brasileiro de Tumores Gastrointestinais desenvolveu diretrizes de tratamento cirúrgico e clínico de pacientes com tumores de vias biliares. O painel multidisciplinar foi composto de especialistas nas áreas radiologia, oncologia, cirurgia, radioterapia, endoscopia e anatomia patológica. O painel utilizou literatura atual para desenvolver recomendações baseadas em evidência científica para as diferentes estratégias terapêuticas e diagnósticas dos colangiocarcinomas e tumores de vesícula biliar.

Background - Upper gastrointestinal bleeding implies significant clinical and economic repercussions. The correct establishment of the latest therapies for the upper gastrointestinal bleeding is associated with reduced in-hospital mortality. The use of clinical pathways for the upper gastrointestinal bleeding is associated with shorter hospital stay and lower hospital costs. Objective - The primary objective is the development of a clinical care pathway for the management of patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding, to be used in tertiary hospital. Methods - It was conducted an extensive literature review on the management of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, contained in the primary and secondary information sources. Results - The result is a clinical care pathway for the upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with evidence of recent bleeding, diagnosed by melena or hematemesis in the last 12 hours, who are admitted in the emergency rooms and intensive care units of tertiary hospitals. In this compact and understandable pathway, it is well demonstrated the management since the admission, with definition of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, passing through the initial clinical treatment, posterior guidance for endoscopic therapy, and referral to rescue therapies in cases of persistent or rebleeding. It was also included the care that must be taken before hospital discharge for all patients who recover from an episode of bleeding. Conclusion - The introduction of a clinical care pathway for patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding may contribute to standardization of medical practices, decrease in waiting time for medications and services, length of hospital stay and costs. Contexto - A hemorragia digestiva alta implica em significativas repercussões clínicas e econômicas. O estabelecimento correto das mais recentes terapêuticas para a hemorragia digestiva alta está associado à redução na mortalidade intra-hospitalar. O uso de algoritmos para atendimento da hemorragia digestiva alta está associado com menor tempo de internação e menores custos hospitalares. Objetivos - O objetivo primário é a criação de um protocolo de atendimento da hemorragia digestiva alta, para ser utilizado em hospital terciário. Métodos - Realizada extensa revisão da literatura sobre as condutas na hemorragia digestiva alta, contidas nas bases de dados primária e secundária. Resultados - O resultado é um modelo de atendimento para os pacientes com hemorragia digestiva alta e com evidência de sangramento recente, dado por melena ou hematêmese nas ultimas 24h, que são atendidos nas salas de emergência e unidades de terapia intensiva de hospitais terciários. Neste protocolo de atendimento, desenhado de forma compacta e compreensível, fica bem evidenciado o manejo dos pacientes desde a admissão, com definição dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, passando considerações acerca do atendimento clínico inicial, posterior direcionamento para a terapêutica endoscópica, e encaminhamento às terapias de resgate em casos de sangramento persistente ou recorrente. Destacam-se também os cuidados que devem ser tomados antes da alta hospitalar para todos os pacientes que se recuperam de um episódio de sangramento. Conclusão - A introdução de um protocolo para atendimento e tratamento de pacientes com hemorragia digestiva alta pode contribuir para uniformização de condutas médicas, diminuição no tempo de espera por medicações e serviços, no tempo de internação e nos custos hospitalares.

A 54-year-old man was referred for a screening colonoscopy. He had no family history of colorectal cancer and no significant prior history, except for mild arterial blood hypertension that was well controlled with beta blockers (atenolol 50mg/day). Physical examination results were normal and colon preparation was uneventful. Colonoscopy showed several diverticula in the left colon; otherwise findings were normal up to the terminal ileum. During scope withdrawal, careful examination of the sigmoid colon revealed a flat-type laterally spreading tumor with a small area of protruding lesion (●" Fig.1). A better look at the lesion with colonic distension showed that the tumor involved the entire surface of a single diverticulum (●" Figs.2,3). Because of the location and the low risk of the surgery to the patient, the lesion was tattooed (●" Fig.4 gray areas) and the patient was referred for a laparoscopic left colectomy, which was successfully performed with no complications. Histological analysis revealed the presence of an adenoma with low grade dysplasia. The patient is now having regular colonoscopic surveillance.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic sclerotherapy is an absolute indication for treating esophageal varices. Re-bleeding is common during the treatment period, before all varices become eradicated. AIM: To compare two techniques of endoscopic esophageal varices eradication: sclerotherapy with absolute alcohol and banding ligation. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Forty-six patients with liver cirrhosis and esophageal varices were prospectively randomized into two treatment groups: endoscopic sclerotherapy with absolute alcohol and banding ligation. Patients were included if they had large varices with signs of high bleeding risk. Informed writing consent was obtained from every patient and the Ethics Committee of Federal University of São Paulo, SP, Brazil, approved the study. After eradication, all patients were followed up to 1 year to look for re-bleeding episodes and variceal recurrence. RESULTS: Both groups were similar except that male gender was more common in the sclerotherapy group. There was no statistical difference regarding variceal eradication (78.3% in sclerotherapy group vs 73.9% in the ligation group), recurrence (26.7% vs 42.9%, respectively) and death related to any cause (21.7% vs 13.9%). In the sclerotherapy group more sessions were need to obtain complete variceal eradication. In this group we did observe a high re-bleeding rate (34.8%) and more ulcers associated with retrosternal pain right after the procedure. There was no difference regarding overall morbidity and mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Banding ligation requires fewer sessions than sclerotherapy with absolute alcohol to eradicate esophageal varices. Both methods are equally efficient regarding variceal eradication and recurrence during a short follow-up period.

Background The use of EUS for precise preoperative evaluation of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors is well established; up to 80% of insulinomas can be localized. However, the EUS appearance of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors can be similar to that of benign peripancreatic lymph nodes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of EUS-guided FNA in this setting. Methods Thirty patients (18 women, 12 men) with 33 pancreatic/peripancreatic lesions confirmed by surgery underwent EUS-guided FNA between February 1997 and September 2002. Transabdominal US and CT were obtained in all patients before EUS. The diagnosis of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor was established based on morphologic appearance and immunohistochemical staining of cytologic and surgical specimens. Results EUS detected 32 of the 33 (96.9%) lesions (mean diameter 20 mm, range 5-97 mm). There was one complication (abdominal pain). For the 30 patients, the following diagnoses were made: functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (16 patients), non-functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (7), peripancreatic lymph node (5), inflammatory intrapancreatic nodule (1), and peripancreatic splenosis (1). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy of EUS-guided FNA were 82.6%, 85.7%, 95%, 60%, and 83.3%, respectively. There was one false-positive diagnosis by EUS-guided FNA and 4 false-negative diagnoses. In two of the latter cases, EUS-guided FNA was unsuccessful. Conclusions EUS-guided FNA is accurate and safe for the diagnosis of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor and may have a role in determining management strategy.

Biliary anastomotic stricture occurs in 15% to 20% of patients after deceased orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). It is usually treated endoscopically with multiple plastic stents (MPSs), although the use of fully covered self-expandable metal stents (cSEMSs) is emerging. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of cSEMSs versus MPSs in these patients.A single-center, open-label, randomized clinical trial was performed. Patients were randomized to single cSEMSs for 6 months or to MPS placement, exchanged every 3 months over 1 year. The primary outcome was stricture resolution. Crossover therapy was considered for failure or recurrence. Secondary outcomes were sustained improvement, morbidity, and mortality.Between October 2009 and January 2014, 162 patients with post-OLT biliary adverse events were assessed for eligibility. Sixty-four were prospectively randomized (1:1) to cSEMSs or MPSs. Baseline characteristics were comparable. Technical success was 100%. Median follow-up was 36.4 and 32.9 months for the cSEMS and MPS groups, stricture resolution at last stent removal was achieved in 83.3% and 96.5% (P = .19), and stricture recurrence was observed in 32% and 0%, respectively (P .01). Adverse events occurred in 23.3% and 6.4% of ERCPs in the cSEMS and MPS groups, respectively (P .01), with 13.3% of acute pancreatitis in the cSEMS group and 2.1% in the MPS group (P .01).cSEMSs were comparable with MPSs regarding post-OLT biliary anastomotic stricture resolution. cSEMSs allowed fewer procedures and had a positive effect on cost. Duration of treatment with cSEMSs should be further investigated. Sphincterotomy should be considered for all patients. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT 01148199.).

Objective The aim of this study was to compare the recurrence of esophageal varices (EVs) after endoscopic band ligation (EBL) associated with propranolol (PP) versus EBL alone. Patients and methods Sixty-six cirrhotic outpatients (EBL group, n=32 and EBL+PP group, n=34) with high-risk EVs without previous bleeding were studied. Main outcome measurements The primary outcome was recurrence of EV. The secondary outcomes were EV eradication, bleeding before EV eradication, mortality, and adverse events. Results Demographic characteristics and the initial endoscopic findings were similar. EV eradication was achieved in all patients. Three patients presented gastrointestinal bleeding before variceal eradication, two in the EBL group and one in the EBL+PP group (P=0.13). Six patients died (liver failure), two in the EBL group and four in the EBL+PP group (P=0.27). Twelve (38%) patients in the EBL group and three (9%) patients in the EBL+PP group had variceal recurrence. The risk of recurrence of EVs after eradication was significantly higher among patients in the EBL group (P=0.003). Conclusion EBL alone and EBL+PP were effective in the primary prophylaxis of bleeding from EVs in cirrhotic patients (EV eradication, bleeding before EV eradication, mortality, and adverse events were similar in both groups). However, variceal recurrence was lower in the EBL+PP group than band ligation alone.

Biliary complications (BC) occur in up to 39.5% of patients after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT), being an important source of post-transplant morbidity. The aim is to evaluate the incidence of BC after OLT, associated risk factors and outcome after endoscopic treatment.A retrospective case series between June 2005 and December 2008, including 195 patients that underwent 216 OLT from deceased donors. Thirty-one patients (14.3%) presented at least 1 BC, anastomotic stricture being the most frequent (83.8%). Non-anastomotic stricture was present in 1 (3.2%) and anastomotic fistula in 1. One patient presented anastomotic disconnection at ERCP.BC occurred 94.6 (7-487) days after OLT. Twenty-seven patients underwent endoscopic treatment, on average 2.6 ERCPs were performed per patient. Global endoscopic treatment success rate was 77.3%; being 73.7% for stenosis and 100% (3/3) for anastomotic fistula with stenosis. Recurrence of biliary stricture was observed in 3 patients, all referred to endoscopic re-treatment. ERCP complications: 2 (2.8%) stent migrations, 1 (1.4%) early stent occlusion, 1 (1.4%) respiratory distress and 1(1.4%) severe acute pancreatitis and death. There was no correlation between studied risk factors and BC's occurrence.ERCP was effective for the treatment of BC after OLT. Studied risk factors had no correlation with BC.

Background The results of variceal band ligation (VBL) in patients with advanced liver disease are unknown. Cyanoacrylate injection (CI) might have a better outcome than VBL in the treatment of esophageal varices (EV) in these patients. Aim To compare VBL and CI in the treatment of EV in patients with advanced liver disease. Patients and methods Thirty-eight patients with medium or large EV and Child-Pugh index of at least eight were randomized into two groups: VBL (n=20) and CI (n=18). The patients were followed-up for at least 6 months after the end of treatment. Main outcomes were eradication, bleeding, mortality, complication, and recurrence rates. Results Variceal eradication rates were similar in the VBL and CI groups (90 vs. 72%, P=0.39). Mean number of sessions until eradication was 3.17 and 3, respectively. Bleeding episodes until eradication were equally observed in both groups (P=0.17). Mortality (55 vs. 56%, P=0.52) and major complication rates (5 and 17%, P=0.32) were similar. Chest pain with dysphagia was more frequent in the CI group (55.6 vs. 10%, P=0.004). A higher risk of variceal recurrence was observed in the CI group (33 vs. 57%, P=0.04). Conclusion No significant differences between the VBL and CI groups were observed in the treatment of EV in patients with advanced liver disease regarding mortality, variceal eradication, and major complications rates. However, minor complications and variceal recurrence were significantly more common in the CI group. In addition, there was a clear trend toward more bleeding episodes in patients included in the CI group.

Sangramento por varizes gástricas é grave. Relato de experiência com injeção de cianoacrilato. Vinte e três pacientes com hipertensão portal e varizes gástricas foram tratados com injeção intravasal de solução de cianoacrilato/lipiodol (1:1). O objetivo do estudo foi alcançar obliteração da variz. O tempo médio de acompanhamento foi 25,3 meses. Obliteração foi atingida em 87% dos pacientes. Recidiva foi observada em um (4,3%) e ressangramento em outro caso (4.3%). Dor abdominal ocorreu em 13% dos pacientes. A mortalidade global foi de 21,7% e 4,3% relacionada ao ressangramento. Estes resultados confirmam a injeção de cianoacrilato como efetiva e segura na erradicação das varizes gástricas. Bleeding from gastric varices is a life-threatening condition. We report our experience with cyanoacrylate injection. Twenty three patients with portal hypertension and gastric varices underwent intra-variceal injection of a cyanoacrylate/lipiodol solution (1:1). Study endpoint was variceal obliteration. Mean follow-up was 25.3 months. Variceal obliteration was achieved in 87% of patients. Recurrence occurred in one patient (4.3%) and rebleeding in another case (4.3%). Mild abdominal pain was described in 13% of patients. Overall mortality was 21.7% and rebleeding related mortality rate was 4.3%. Our results confirm that cyanoacrylate injection is effective and safe to eradicate gastric varices. Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP) UNIFESP, EPM, São Paulo SciELO

endoscopic ultrasound guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) allows cytologic and/or histologic diagnosis of lesions within or adjacent to the gastrointestinal tract. However, the amount of tissue obtained with a regular 22 gauge needle is not always satisfactory. With the development of a needle XNA-10J-KB (Shot-Gun) that resembles the automatic liver biopsy needle, it is expected that significant samples be obtained more frequently (core biopsy), optimizing histological analysis.to compare samples obtained with EUS-FNA using 3 different needle systems: GIP, NA-10J-1 and Shot-Gun.19 patients underwent EUS-FNA for diagnosis (5) or tumor staging (14). Mean age was 58.9 years (range 27-82), being 50% men. All patients were submitted to EUS-FNA with the 3 needle models. The Shot-Gun model was "shot" when its tip was near the target inside the lesion, followed by aspiration. Samples were submitted for cytologic and histologic examination.mean lesion size was 3.0 cm (range 0.8-5.5 cm). Final diagnoses were made after surgery or intra-operative biopsy: 13 pancreatic tumors (12 adenocarcinomas and 1 neuroendocrine tumor), 4 chronic pancreatitis, 1 acute pancreatitis, and 1 cholangiocarcinoma. Specimens adequate for cytologic diagnosis were obtained in 13/19 (68. 4%) patients using GIP model, in 14/19 (73.7%) with NA10J-1 model, and in 17/19 (89.5%) with ShotGun, model (p=0.039). Histologic analysis was possible in 10/19 (52.6%) patients using the GIP model, in 14/19 (73.7%) with NA10J-1, and in 17/19 (89.5%) with Shot-Gun, model (p=0.005). Adequate samples for cytologic or histologic assessment in 16/19 (84.2%) patients using the GIP model, in 17/19 (89.5%) with NA10J-1, and in 18/19 (94.7%) with Shot-Gun, model (p=0.223). In two cases biopsies were negative due to very hard tumors.the Shot-Gun needle obtained better samples for histological diagnosis than NA10J-1 needle and GIP.

In the last 20 years, several papers have focused on demonstrating the impact of endoscopic ultrasonography findings on the management of different clinical scenarios in digestive disease. This fact is an indirect evidence of the difficulty of popularization of the method. On other hand, the limited availability of endoscopic ultrasonography in Brazil is a direct evidence of this limitation. This was the rationale for the organization of a consensus meeting on endoscopic ultrasonography. It was aimed to identify the best evidence that support the use of endoscopic ultrasonography in gastroenterology.A panel of experts on endoscopic ultrasonography was selected based on the files of the Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Societies and on the registries of endoscope manufacturers. Two members of the meeting selected the relevant topics that were transformed into questions. The topics and the questions were debated among the experts five months before the consensus meeting. The experts were asked to perform systematic reviews in order to answer the questions so it could be possible to grade the answers based on the strength of the evidence. During the two days of the meeting the answers were presented, debated and voted. Consensus was reached when a minimum of 70% of the voters were in agreement. The final consensus report was submitted to the experts' evaluation and approval.Seventy nine questions were debated by the experts at the pre-Consensus meeting. As the result of this debate 85 questions came out and were assigned to the members of the panel. During the Consensus meeting 22 experts debated and voted 85 answers. Consensus was reached for several clinical scenarios for which the impact of endoscopic ultrasonography findings were supported by level 1 evidences: differential diagnosis of subepithelial lesions and thickening of gastric folds, staging and diagnosis of unresectable esophageal cancer, indirect signs of peritoneal involvement of gastric cancer, MALT gastric lymphoma and rectal cancer staging, diagnosis of common bile duct and gallbladder stones, diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis and differential diagnosis of a solid mass in chronic pancreatitis, differential diagnosis of the pancreatic cyst, prediction of the results of the endoscopic treatment of esophageal varices and diagnosis and staging of non-small cell lung cancer.There are the highest levels of evidences that support the indication of endoscopic ultrasonography for several digestive diseases and even for non-small cell lung cancer.

BACKGROUND: Sphincter of Oddi manometry is the gold-standard method for sphincter of Oddi dysfunction. The prevalence of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction among patients referred to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is largely unknown. AIM: To evaluate prospectively the prevalence of biliary sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (B-SOD) among Brazilian patients referred to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and to study the safety of sphincter of Oddi manometry in this setting. METHODS: Biliary sphincter of Oddi manometry was intended in 110 patients referred to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. The number of attempts to obtain deep cannulation with the manometry catheter was recorded and patients were divided into two groups: up to 5 (easy cannulation) and >5 attempts (difficult cannulation). RESULTS: Sphincter of Oddi manometry was successful in 71/110 patients (64.5%). Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction was found in 18/71 patients (25%). Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography findings were: normal in 16, biliary stones in 39, malignant biliary strictures in 9 and benign biliary strictures in 7. There was no statistical difference in sphincter of Oddi dysfunction prevalence regarding disease, gender or difficulty of cannulation. Only 2/71 patients developed post-procedure mild pancreatitis. CONCLUSIONS: We have found a high prevalence of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction in patients referred to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Gender, nature of disease or difficulty of cannulation did not influence the prevalence of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction among these patients. Sphincter of Oddi manometry is a safe procedure for the evaluation of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction in patients referred to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. RACIONAL: Manometria do esfíncter de Oddi é o método padrão-ouro para o diagnóstico da disfunção do esfíncter de Oddi. Atualmente, a prevalência de disfunção do esfíncter de Oddi em pacientes encaminhados a colangiopancreatografia retrógrada endoscópica é desconhecida. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar prospectivamente a prevalência de disfunção do esfíncter de Oddi em pacientes encaminhados a colangiopancreatografia retrógrada endoscópica e estudar a segurança da manometria do esfíncter de Oddi nesses pacientes. MÉTODO: Neste estudo, 110 pacientes encaminhados à colangiopancreatografia retrógrada endoscópica foram submetidos a manometria do esfíncter de Oddi biliar. Com base no número de tentativas de canulação da papila os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos: até cinco tentativas (canulação fácil) e mais de cinco tentativas (canulação difícil). RESULTADOS: Manometria do esfíncter de Oddi foi realizada com sucesso em 71/110 pacientes (64,5%). Disfunção do esfíncter de Oddi foi encontrada em 18/71 pacientes (25%). Os achados das colangiopancreatografia retrógrada endoscópica foram: estudo normal em 16, coledocolitíase em 39, estenose biliar maligna em 9 e estenose biliar benigna em 7. Não foi observada diferença estatística na prevalência de disfunção do esfíncter de Oddi considerando-se a natureza da doença, sexo ou a dificuldade de canulação. Somente 2/71 pacientes evoluíram com pancreatite pós-procedimento de leve intensidade. CONCLUSÃO: Encontrou-se alta prevalência de disfunção do esfíncter de Oddi em pacientes encaminhados a colangiopancreatografia retrógrada endoscópica. Sexo, natureza da doença ou dificuldade de canulação não mostraram influência na prevalência da disfunção nestes pacientes. Manometria do esfíncter de Oddi mostrou-se um procedimento seguro na pesquisa de disfunção do esfíncter de Oddi em pacientes encaminhados a colangiopancreatografia retrógrada endoscópica.

The diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis in early stages remains challenging and agreement between various methods is poor. Alcohol consumption is the most important cause of chronic pancreatitis.The aim of this study was to evaluate the endosonographic evidence of pancreatic disease in patients with alcohol abuse.Consecutive patients referred for endoscopic ultrasonography for various indications between May 2001 and December 2003.Two hundred twenty-eight patients were enrolled in the study. One hundred 89 patients were studied; 39 (17.1%) were excluded because the pancreas could not be completely assessed (n=23) or because a previous diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis and/or pancreatic neoplasm was suspected (n=16).Prospective study. The patients were divided into 2 groups: alcoholics (n=17) and non-alcoholics (n=172).The assessment of pancreatic disease according to parenchymal and ductal changes as previously described by Catalano and Sahai (scores 1 and 2, respectively).The male:female ratio was 7.5 and 0.9 in the alcoholic and the non-alcoholic groups, respectively (P=0.002). Mean ages were 53.0 and 47.8 years, respectively (P=0.156). Alcoholic patients had significantly (P0.001) more endosonographic abnormalities than non-alcoholics for both scores. A ROC curve comparison between patients and controls showed that the best specificity and sensitivity combination was obtained for the number of EUS features greater than 1 and 2 for the scores 1 and 2, respectively.Alcoholic patients had significantly more endosonographic abnormalities reflecting possible early changes of chronic pancreatitis. By using reported scores, values up to 1 or 2 can be seen in patients with no risk for pancreatitis, suggesting that chronic pancreatitis should be considered only for scores equal to or greater than 2 or 3 for scores 1 and 2, respectively.

Background Endoscopic sclerotherapy (ES) and band ligation are standard treatments for esophageal varices. Unfortunately, recurrence is common and seems to be related to esophageal collateral vessels, easily identified by EUS. Eradication of these vessels might lead to a more durable therapeutic effect. Objective To compare ES with EUS-guided sclerotherapy of collateral vessels (EUS-ES). Design Randomized controlled trial. Setting Endoscopy Unit, Division of Gastroenterology. Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Patients and Interventions Fifty cirrhotic patients with esophageal varices were randomized into 2 groups: ES (n = 25) and EUS-ES (n = 25). EUS-ES was targeted at collateral veins. Patients were followed-up for at least 6 months after eradication. Main Outcome Measurements Efficacy in eradication, complications, and recurrence of varices. Results Varices were eradicated in 48 patients who adhered to the study protocol. The mean (SD) number of sessions until eradication was 4.3 (1.5) for the ES group and 4.1 (1.2) for the EUS-ES group. In ES group, 4 patients had mild bleeding. In EUS-ES group, 4 patients had pain. The mean (SD) length of the follow-up period was 22.6 (6.9) months for the ES group and 24.9 (8.1) months for the EUS-ES group. Recurrence was seen in 4 patients after ES and in 2 after EUS-ES ( P = .32). The presence of collateral vessels was associated with recurrence ( P = .003). Conclusion EUS-ES is as safe and effective as ES in variceal eradication. Recurrence tends to be less frequent and occurs later. Persistence of esophageal collateral vessels after sclerotherapy is a risk factor for recurrence.

CONTEXT: Obstructive jaundice due to lymphoma is very rare. It may be difficult to distinguish between this condition and a large number of causes of extrahepatic bile duct obstruction, even by endoscopic retrograde cholangiography. Its prognosis is poor. Combined chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy with bile duct drainage is a therapeutic option. CASE REPORT: We describe a case of obstructive jaundice as the initial presentation of Hodgkin's disease. After chemotherapy and endoscopic bile duct stenting, it was noted that the enlarged lymph nodes, jaundice and bile duct dilation disappeared.

Lugol’s iodine solution, a vital stain, can be used to improve the detection of esophageal squamous cancer. Normal mucosa changes from pink to dark brown as a result of iodine binding to glycogen in the squamous epithelium. Areas containing inflammatory, dysplastic, or malignant cells remain unstained. Chromoendoscopy with Lugol’s solution has been strongly recommended for populations at high risk for esophageal cancer, including those with a history of esophageal or head and neck cancers, 1-5 as well as patients who consume large amounts of alcohol and/or smoke tobacco. 2,6,7 Iodine can induce mucosal irritation, leading to oropharyngeal burning, heartburn, pain, and discomfort, and can even induce erosion or ulceration in the esophagus and stomach. 1,6 A case is presented of esophagitis that occurred after chromoendoscopy with Lugol’s iodine solution. Case report. A 48-year-old man was referred with a history of epigastric pain, heartburn, and regurgitation. Endoscopy revealed an advanced esophageal cancer in the distal third that biopsy specimens confirmed as squamouscell carcinoma. There had been no weight loss, and the patient denied dysphagia. However, he reported heavy use of alcohol and tobacco for more than 20 years. Three brothers also had esophageal cancer. On examination, enlarged lymph nodes were palpable in the neck. Further evaluation by bronchoscopy and CT confirmed the diagnosis, and the patient was referred for combined chemoradiotherapy. The chemotherapy protocol included cisplatin (100 mg/m 2 on day 1) and continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil (600 mg/m 2 /day from day 1 to day 4). A total radiotherapy dose of 4500 cGy was given. Three months after the initial therapy, the lymphadenopathy had disappeared, which was considered an objective response. Two months later, a second endoscopic examination revealed no lesion, and approximately 10 mL of a 1.0% solution of Lugol’s iodine was sprayed over the entire esophageal mucosa. One unstained area was encountered in the proximal third, but biopsy specimens from this region disclosed only chronic esophagitis. One day after the chromoendoscopic examination, the patient presented with severe retrosternal pain. Treatment with orally administered analgesics and proton pump inhibitors provided no relief of the pain. At upper endoscopy 48 hours later, severe esophagitis was present, with many erosions distributed over the entire length of the organ (Fig. 1). Treatment was continued with analgesics and proton pump inhibitors for 2 weeks, and the pain resolved. Endoscopy 50 days later revealed normal mucosa except for a 6-mm elevated round lesion in the proximal esophagus (Fig. 2) in the same area that did not stain

A 45-year-old male patient, hospitalized and under investigation of mediastinal mass, presenting with sudoresis, malaise, and dysphagia. Computed tomography showed eccentric parietal thickening of the middle third of esophagus, with mass effect and upstream ectasia, with no expressive increase of metabolic activity. Additionally, there are cervical, axillary, pulmonary hilar, portocaval space, and unspecific iliac lymph nodes ( and ). […] Mediastinal tumor: not always a lymphoma