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Abstract: Background: Dysphagia and non‐cardiac chest pain are common symptoms associated with a novel hypercontractile disorder, namely Jackhammer esophagus (JE). The aim of this study was to explore these symptoms in patients with JE and to elucidate associations with disease defining metrics, crucial for subsequent therapies. Methods: All consecutive patients, who were referred between January 2014 and December 2016 and fulfilled the criteria for JE were included in this study. Exclusion criteria were opioid intake, previous gastrointestinal surgery, mechanical esophageal obstruction and diseases explaining their symptoms. Key Results: Of 2205 examined subjects, thirty patients (females: n = 17, 56.7%) with a median age of 58 (51.6‐64.9) years were finally enrolled. Dysphagia was noted in 53.3% (n = 16), whereas non‐cardiac chest pain was specified within 40% (n = 12) with symptom duration of up to 10 years. Perception of dysphagia (P = .03) and presence of both symptoms (P = .008) increased to the end of the study period. Dysphagia was significantly associated with distal contractile integral (DCI) scores of all (P = .023), hypercontractile (P = .011) and maximum DCI swallows (P = .008). Symptoms duration influenced hypercontractile DCI scores (P = .015, r = .438) and significantly correlated with the intensity of perceived dysphagia (P = .01, r = .585). Presence of non‐cardiac chest pain was not associated with any of these metrics. Conclusions & Interferences: The DCI mediates dysphagia in patients with JE. Duration of symptoms affected hypercontractile DCI scores and aggravated perception of dysphagia indicating a progressive character of disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) erosion, disruption or displacement clearly requires device removal. However, up to 5.5% of patients without anatomical failure require removal for dysphagia or recurrent GERD symptoms. Studies characterizing these patients or their management are limited. We aimed to characterize these patients, compare their outcomes, and determine the necessity for further reflux surgery., Methods: This is a retrospective review of 777 patients who underwent MSA at our institution between 2013 and 2021. Patients who underwent device removal for persistent dysphagia or recurrent GERD symptoms were included. Demographic, clinical, objective testing, and quality of life data obtained preoperatively, after implantation and following removal were compared between removal for dysphagia and GERD groups. Sub-analyses were performed comparing outcomes with and without an anti-reflux surgery (ARS) at the time of removal., Results: A total of 40 (5.1%) patients underwent device removal, 31 (77.5%) for dysphagia and 9 (22.5%) for GERD. After implantation, dysphagia patients had less heartburn (12.9-vs-77.7%, p = 0.0005) less regurgitation (16.1-vs-55.5%, p = 0.0286), and more pH-normalization (91.7-vs-33.3%, p = 0.0158). Removal without ARS was performed in 5 (55.6%) GERD and 22 (71.0%) dysphagia patients. Removal for dysphagia patients had more complete symptom resolution (63.6-vs-0.0%, p = 0.0159), freedom from PPIs (81.8-vs-0.0%, p = 0.0016) and pH-normalization (77.8-vs-0.0%, p = 0.0455). Patients who underwent removal for dysphagia had comparable symptom resolution (p = 0.6770, freedom from PPI (p = 0.3841) and pH-normalization (p = 0.2534) with or without ARS. Those who refused ARS with removal for GERD had more heartburn (100.0%-vs-25.0%, p = 0.0476), regurgitation (80.0%-vs-0.0%, p = 0.0476) and PPI use (75.0%-vs-0.0%, p = 0.0476)., Conclusions: MSA removal outcomes are dependent on the indication for removal. Removal for dysphagia yields excellent outcomes regardless of anti-reflux surgery. Patients with persistent GERD had worse outcomes on all measures without ARS. We propose a tailored approach to MSA removal-based indication for removal., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Objective: To evaluate the impact of MSA on lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and esophageal body using high resolution impedance manometry., Background: MSA is an effective treatment in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease, but there is limited data on its impact on esophageal functional physiology., Methods: Patients who underwent MSA were approached 1-year after surgery for objective foregut testing consists of upper endoscopy, esophagram, high resolution impedance manometry, and esophageal pH-monitoring. Postoperative data were then compared to the preoperative measurements., Results: A total of 100 patients were included in this study. At a mean follow up of 14.9(10.1) months, 72% had normalization of esophageal acid exposure. MSA resulted in an increase in mean LES resting pressure [29.3(12.9) vs 25(12.3), P < 0.001]. This was also true for LES overall length [2.9(0.6) vs 2.6(0.6), P = 0.02] and intra-abdominal length [1.2(0.7) vs 0.8(0.8), P < 0.001]. Outflow resistance at the EGJ increased after MSA as demonstrated by elevation in intrabolus pressure (19.6 vs 13.5 mmHg, P < 0.001) and integrated relaxation pressure (13.5 vs 7.2, P < 0.001). MSA was also associated with an increase in distal esophageal body contraction amplitude [103.8(45.4) vs 94.1(39.1), P = 0.015] and distal contractile integral [2647.1(2064.4) vs 2099.7(1656.1), P < 0.001]. The percent peristalsis and incomplete bolus clearance remained unchanged ( P = 0.47 and 0.08, respectively)., Conclusions: MSA results in improvement in the LES manometric characteristics. Although the device results in an increased outflow resistance at the EGJ, the compensatory increase in the force of esophageal contraction will result in unaltered esophageal peristaltic progression and bolus clearance., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Introduction: No manometric criteria have been defined to select patients for magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA). The first step to establish such criteria is to measure the outflow resistance at esophagogastric junction (EGJ) imposed by MSA. This resistance needs to be overcome by the esophageal contraction in order for the esophagus to empty and to avoid postoperative dysphagia. This study was designed to measure the outflow resistance caused by MSA in patients free of postoperative dysphagia., Methods: Records of the patients who underwent MSA in our institution were reviewed. A group of MSA patients with excellent functional outcome, who were free of clinically significant postoperative dysphagia, were selected. These patients then underwent high-resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) at a target date of 1 year after surgery. The outflow resistance was measured by the esophageal intrabolus pressure (iBP) recorded 2 cm proximal to the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)., Results: The study population consisted of 43 patients. HRIM was performed at mean of 20.4 (10.4) months after surgery. The mean (SD) amplitude of the iBP was 13.5 (4.3) before surgery and increased to 19.1 (5.6) after MSA (p < 0.0001). Patients with a smaller size LINX device (≤ 14 beads) had a similar iBP when compared to those with a larger device (> 15 beads) [19.7 (4.5) vs. 18.4 (5.9), p = 0.35]. There was a significant correlation between the iBP and % incomplete bolus clearance [Spearman R: 0.44 (95% CI 0.15-0.66), p = 0.0032]. The 95th percentile value for iBP after MSA was 30.4 mmHg., Conclusion: The EGJ outflow resistance measured by iBP is increased after MSA. The upper limit of normal for iBP is 30 mmHg in this cohort of patients who were free of dysphagia after MSA. This degree of resistance needs to be overcome by distal esophageal contraction and will likely be requisite to prevent persistent postoperative dysphagia., (© 2020. The Author(s).)

Background: The performance and durability of various types of fundoplication are variable when stratified by disease severity. To date, magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) has not been evaluated in this context. We designed this study to determine the efficacy of MSA in the treatment of severe GERD., Study Design: Guided by previous studies, a DeMeester score (DMS) ≥ 50 was used as a cutoff point to define severe reflux disease. Subjects were divided into 2 groups using this cutoff, and outcomes of severe cases were compared with those with less severe disease (DMS < 50)., Results: A total of 334 patients underwent MSA. Patients with severe disease had a higher mean preoperative DMS compared with those with mild to moderate GERD (79.2 [53.2] vs 22.8 [13.7], p < 0.0001). At a mean postoperative follow-up of 13.6 (10.4) months, there was no difference between the mean GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL) total scores in patients with severe disease compared with those with less severe GERD (8.8 [10] vs 9.2 [10.8], p = 0.9204). Postoperative mean DMS was not different between groups (17.3[23.0] vs 14.1[33.9], p = 0.71), and there was no difference in the prevalence of esophagitis (p = 0.52). Patients with severe disease were less likely to be free from use of proton pump inhibitors after surgery (85% vs 93.1%, p = 0.041). There were similar rates of postoperative dysphagia (10% vs 14%, p = 0.42) and need for device removal (3% vs 5%, p = 0.7463)., Conclusions: MSA is an effective treatment in patients with severe GERD and leads to significant clinical improvement across the spectrum of disease severity, with few objective outcomes being superior in patients with mild-to-moderate reflux disease., (Copyright © 2020 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Esophageal dissecans superficialis (EDS) is a rare disease with endoscopic findings of sloughing squamous tissue with underlying normal mucosa and had no known cause. The literature does support possible causality between the presence of an esophageal stricture and EDS however there has been no association to date between EDS and esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO). We present a case of newly diagnosed EGJOO in a patient with long standing gastroesophageal reflux disease who presented with dysphagia. Evaluation identified endoscopically normal mucosa and a diagnosis of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction on high resolution impedance manometry. A month later, repeat endoscopy identified diffusely sloughing mucosa consistent with EDS. Endoscopic dilation followed by a robotic Heller myotomy with Dor fundoplication to relive the outflow obstruction resulted in resolution of EDS in this case.

Pseudoachalasia is mimicking clinical and physiologic manifestations of idiopathic achalasia but results from alternative etiologies that infiltrate or obstruct the esophagogastric junction (EGJ). Anti-reflux surgery is one of the potential etiologies of pseudoachalasia. The majority of cases with persistent dysphagia after a tightly constructed Nissen fundoplication results from EGJ outlet obstruction (EGJOO) and in rare cases progresses to pseudoachalasia. In these extreme cases, endoscopic dilation is not a sufficient treatment and take down of fundoplication would be necessary. In this case report, we present a patient with long-standing GERD symptoms that underwent magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) with complete resolution of his reflux symptoms. He did not have dysphagia prior to surgery and his preoperative manometry showed normal peristaltic progression of esophageal contractions. He developed pseudoachalasia 14 months after surgery. Repeated endoscopic dilation in this case resulted in resolution of dysphagia and complete restoration of peristaltic contractions.

Typical reflux symptoms that respond well to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy are key factors predictive of an excellent outcome with antireflux surgery for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Our aim was to evaluate whether poor preoperative heartburn (HB) relief with PPIs was associated with a worse outcome after Nissen fundoplication. Patients with a main symptom of HB and a positive pH-test who had a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication between January 2008 and December 2014 were included. Prior to surgery, patients graded how effectively their HB symptoms were relieved by PPIs. Three groups were defined: good response (76-100% relief), partial response (26-75% relief) and poor response (0-25% relief). Outcomes and satisfaction were assessed at a minimum of 1 year after fundoplication. There were 129 patients who met inclusion criteria and 75 agreed to participate. The median follow-up was 48 months. Prior to Nissen fundoplication 13 patients had a good HB response to PPI-therapy, 36 had a partial response and 26 had a poor response. All patients were satisfied with their HB relief after fundoplication (mean satisfaction score: 9.5/10) and there was no difference in satisfaction score or heartburn relief between groups. Heartburn symptoms that respond poorly to PPI therapy are reliably relieved with a Nissen fundoplication in patients with objectively confirmed GERD. Patient satisfaction after Nissen fundoplication was excellent and was similar in patients with poor versus excellent HB relief with preoperative PPI therapy. Therefore, antireflux surgery is an option for patients with HB and confirmed GERD regardless of the degree of relief of HB symptoms provided by PPI medications., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Objective: To review the workload, type and frequency of recurrence, long-term quality of life (QOL), and late oncologic outcomes with endoscopic therapy., Background: The short-term oncologic efficacy of endoscopic resection (ER) and ablation for patients with high-grade dysplasia (HGD) or intramucosal adenocarcinoma (IMC) is well-established in the literature., Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of the initial 40 patients who had endoscopic therapy from 2001 to 2010 at 1 center by 1 physician., Results: Initial pathology was HGD in 22 and IMC in 18 patients, but 9 patients (41%) with HGD progressed to invasive cancer during endotherapy. The median follow-up was 82 months. Four patients had an esophagectomy, and in the remaining 36 patients, 70 ERs and 111 ablations were performed. The median number of endoscopic sessions was 4 in patients with short segment compared with 7 in patients with long-segment Barrett's. Complete resolution of intestinal metaplasia (CRIM) was achieved in 30 patients (83%) at a median of 21 months. In 18 patients (60%), CRIM was maintained, whereas 12 patients developed recurrence at a median of 14 months. Additional endotherapy (n = 11) led to CRIM again in 10 patients (83%). There were no cancer deaths when CRIM was achieved. Overall survival with endotherapy was 73% at 5 years and 67% at 10 years. Quality of life (QOL) was below population means in 4 of 8 areas, but alimentary satisfaction was good after endotherapy., Conclusions: Endotherapy is successful in most patients, but multiple sessions are usually required and disease progression can occur. Once CRIM is achieved, recurrence is common and mandates continued endoscopic follow-up. QOL is impaired with endotherapy, but alimentary satisfaction and oncologic outcomes support esophageal preservation with endotherapy for patients with HGD or IMC.

Background: Patients with preoperative ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) are thought to be at increased risk for postoperative dysphagia leading to the recommendations for tailoring or avoiding anti-reflux surgery in these patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate if IEM has an influence on postoperative outcome after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF)., Methods: Seventy-two consecutive patients with IEM underwent LNF and were case-matched with 72 patients without IEM based on sex, age, BMI, HH size, total pH percentage time, total number of reflux episodes and the presence of BE. Standardized interview assessing postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms, proton pump inhibitor intake, GERD-health-related-quality-of-life (GERD-HRQL), alimentary satisfaction and patients' overall satisfaction was evaluated., Results: Although a higher rate of preoperative dysphagia was observed in patients with IEM (29% IEM vs. 11% no IEM, p = 0.007), there was no significant difference in rates of dysphagia postoperatively (2 IEM vs. 1 no IEM, p = 0.559). Furthermore, no distinction was found in the postoperative outcome regarding symptom relief, quality of life, gas bloating syndrome, ability to belch and/or vomit or revision surgery between the two groups., Conclusion: Although preoperative IEM has an influence on GERD presentation, it has no effect on postoperative outcome after LNF. IEM should not be a cause for avoiding LNF, as is has been shown as the most effective and safe anti-reflux treatment.

As the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is rising, surgical treatment is continuously advancing in an effort to minimize side effects, whilst maintaining efficacy. From a database of patients that underwent anti-reflux surgery at our institution between 2015 and 2018, the last 25 consecutive patients that underwent electrical stimulation (ES), magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) and Nissen fundoplication (NF), following a personalized treatment decision aid, were included in a comparative analysis. After preoperative evaluation each patient was referred for an ES, MSA or NF based on esophageal motility, hiatal hernia (HH) size and the patients' preferences. Postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms and GERD-Health-related-Quality-of-Life were assessed. Preoperatively the median DCI (299 ES vs. 1523.5 MSA vs. 1132 NF, p = 0.001), HH size (0.5 cm ES vs. 1 cm MSA vs. 2 cm NF, p = 0.001) and presence of GERD-related symptoms differed significantly between the groups. The highest rate of postoperative dysphagia was seen after MSA (24%, p = 0.04), while the median GERD HRQL total score was equally distributed between the groups. The positive short-term postoperative outcome and patient satisfaction indicate that such an aid in treatment indication, based on esophageal motility, HH size and patient preference, represents a feasible tool for an ideal choice of operation and an individualized therapy approach.

Background: Although around 30% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are insufficiently treated with medical therapy, only 1% opt for surgical therapy. One of the reasons behind this multifactorial phenomenon is the described adverse effect of long-term dysphagia or gastric bloating syndrome after surgical treatment. Aim of this study was to evaluate the most common side effects associated with anti-reflux surgery, as well as long-term outcomes in a large cohort of highly surgically standardized patients after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF)., Methods: Out of a prospective patients' database including all patients that underwent anti-reflux surgery between 01/2003 and 01/2017 at our institution, 350 consecutive patients after highly standardized LNF were included in this study. A standardized interview was performed by one physician assessing postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms, proton pump inhibitor intake (PPI), GERD-Health-Related-Quality-of-Life (GERD-HRQL), Alimentary Satisfaction (AS), and patients' overall satisfaction., Results: After a median follow-up of 4 years, persistent dysphagia (PD) after LNF was observed in 8 (2%) patients, while postoperative gas-bloat syndrome in 45 (12.7%) cases. Endoscopic dilatation was needed in 7 (2%) patients due to dysphagia, and 19 (5%) patients underwent revision surgery due to recurrence of GERD. The postoperative GERD-HRQL total score was significantly reduced (2 (IQR 0-4.3) vs. 19 (IQR 17-32); p < 0.000) and the median AS was 9/10. Heartburn relief was achieved in 83% of patients. Eighty-three percent of patients were free of PPI intake after follow-up, whereas 13% and 4% of the patients reported daily and irregular PPI use, respectively., Conclusion: LNF is a safe and effective surgical procedure with low postoperative morbidity rates and efficient GERD-related symptom relief. PD does not represent a relevant clinical issue when LNF is performed in a surgical standardized way. These results should be the benchmark to which long-term outcomes of new surgical anti-reflux procedures are compared.

Background: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has been the most frequently performed bariatric procedure worldwide since 2014. Therefore, it is vital to look at its outcomes in a long-term follow-up based on a large patient collective. Main points of discussion are weight regain, reflux, and patients' quality of life at 10+ years after the procedure., Objectives: The aim of this study is to present an update of data that have been published recently and, thus, achieve more conclusive results. The number of patients has been doubled, and the length of the follow-up is still 10+ years., Setting: Multi-center study, medical university clinic, Austria METHODS: This study includes all patients who had SG before December 2006 at the participating bariatric centers. At 10+ years, non-converted patients (67%) were examined using gastroscopy, manometry, 24-hour pH-metry, and questionnaires. Patients' history of weight, comorbidities, and reflux were established through interviews., Results: At 10+ years after SG, the authors found a conversion rate of 33%, an %EWL in non-converted patients of 50.0 ± 22.5, reflux in 57%, and Barrett's metaplasia in 14% of non-converted patients. Gastroscopies revealed that patients with reflux were significantly more likely to have de-novo hiatal hernia. A significantly lower quality of life was detected through GIQLI and BAROS in patients with reflux., Conclusion: The authors recommend gastroscopies at 5-year intervals after SG to detect the possible sequelae of reflux at an early stage. Conversion to Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass (RYGB) works well to cure patients from reflux but may not be as efficient at treating weight regain.

Background: Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is a modern treatment option for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, laparoscopic fundoplication remains the gold standard. The aim of the study was to evaluate outcomes of MSA patients at a reflux center., Methods: A retrospective review was performed of all patients that underwent MSA between March 2012 and November 2017. Out of 110 patients, 68 with a follow-up >3 months were included. Postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) intake, GERD-Health-related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) and alimentary satisfaction (AS) were assessed. Postoperative esophageal functioning tests were performed in 50% of patients., Results: Sixty-eight patients underwent MSA; hiatal repair was performed in 31 cases. The median OR time was 27 min, and no intraoperative complications occurred. The median follow-up was 13 months (IQR 4.2-45). Endoscopic dilatation was performed in 2 patients (3%) and device removal in another 2 cases. The postoperative GERD-HRQL score was significantly reduced (3 vs. 24; p < 0.001) and the median AS was 8/10. Preoperative experienced heartburn, regurgitations and dysphagia were eliminated in 92, 96 and 100%. Postoperative new-onset difficulties swallowing with solids only were reported to occur occasionally by 16% and rarely by 21% of patients. Satisfaction with heartburn relief was 95%, and the overall outcome was rated excellent/good in 89%. PPI dependency was eliminated in 87%. The median total percentage pH < 4 and number of reflux episodes were significantly reduced. Postoperative pH results were negative or slightly above the norm in 79% and 12%, respectively., Conclusion: Sphincter augmentation results in significantly reduced reflux symptoms, increased GERD-specific Quality of Life and excellent alimentary satisfaction with low perioperative morbidity. This procedure should be considered an excellent alternative to fundoplication in the treatment of GERD.

As per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is not followed by any anti-reflux procedure, a common concern is the risk of postoperative gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Electrical stimulation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES-EST) could be an option for post-POEM GERD. A 68-year old male obese patient underwent successful POEM but developed GERD not responsive to proton pump inhibitors. Consecutively, the patient had implanted an electrical LES stimulation device, consisting of bipolar LES-electrodes connected to a subcutaneous pulse generator. POEM reduced the Eckardt score (9 vs. 0), the LES resting pressure (52.0 vs. 16.4 mmHg), and the Integrated Relaxation Pressure (62.0 vs. 10.0 mmHg). LES-EST substantially reduced post-POEM GERD symptoms. GERD-HRQL scores indicated the elimination of heartburn (26 vs. 7) and regurgitation (24 vs. 3) at three months. A reduced total number refluxes (82 vs. 14) was observed. The %-time of pH below 4 was only slightly reduced (8.6% to 6.2%).LES-EST appears to be a feasible option to symptomatically treat post-POEM GERD for patients not ideal for conventional anti-reflux surgery.

This trial was designed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of Jackhammer esophagus (JE), a novel hypercontractile disorder associated with progression to achalasia and limited outcomes following anti-reflux surgery in patients with typical symptoms of GERD and responsiveness to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. Consecutive patients, who were referred for surgical therapy because of PPI responsive typical symptoms of GERD, were prospectively assessed between January 2014 and May 2017. Patients diagnosed with JE subsequently underwent rigorous clinical screening including esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), ambulatory pH impedance monitoring off PPI and a PPI trial. Out of 2443 evaluated patients, 37 (1.5%) subjects with a median age of 56.3 (51.6; 65) years were diagnosed with JE and left for final analysis. Extensive testing resulted in 16 (43.2%) GERD positive patients and 5 (13.9%) participants were observed to have an acid hypersensitive esophagus. There were no clinical parameters that differentiated phenotypes of JE. The prevalence of JE in patients with typical symptoms of GERD and response to PPI therapy is low. True GERD was diagnosed in less than half of this selected cohort, indicating the need for objective testing to stratify phenotypes of JE. (NCT03347903).

Background: We have previously reported short-term outcomes after hiatal hernia repair (HHR) at the time of magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Here we report intermediate-term outcomes and hernia recurrence rate after concomitant MSA and HHR., Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent repair of a hiatal hernia 3 cm or larger at the time of MSA implantation between May 2009 and December 2015. The primary endpoint was hiatal hernia recurrence identified by routine postoperative videoesophagography or endoscopy. Recurrence was defined by a 2 cm or greater upward displacement of the stomach through the diaphragmatic esophageal hiatus. Secondary endpoints included cessation of proton-pump inhibitor (PPI), persistent dysphagia requiring intervention, and GERD health-related quality-of-life (HRQL) scores 1 year from surgery., Results: During the study period, 47 of 53 (89%) patients underwent concomitant MSA with HHR and complied with surveillance. Hiatal hernias ranged from 3 to 7 cm (mean 4 ± 1). Mean clinical follow-up time was 19 months (range 1-39). GERD-HRQL score decreased from 20.3 to 3.1 (p < .001), 89% of patients remained off PPIs, and 97% of patients reported improvement or resolution of symptoms. Two recurrent hiatal hernias were identified on surveillance imaging for a recurrence rate of 4.3% at a mean 18 (± 10) months after initial operation. Persistent dysphagia occurred in 13% (6/47) over the first year, which resolved after a single balloon dilation in 67% (4/6). Two patients elected for device removal due to dilation-refractory dysphagia and persistent reflux symptoms., Conclusion: Concomitant magnetic sphincter augmentation and hiatal hernia repair in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and a moderate-sized hiatal hernia demonstrates durable subjective reflux control and an acceptable hiatal hernia recurrence rate at 1- to 2-year follow-up.

Magnetic sphincter-augmentation (MSA) has been proven effective in the treatment of GERD. No consensus exists on whether crural closure should be performed. Our aim was to assess the impact of cruroplasty on reflux-control and quality of life. MSA-Patients treated between 03/2012-03/2017 were classified into those without hiatal hernia ("NHH"), those post-MSA (NHR) and those post-MSA/hiatal repair (HR). GERD-symptoms, PPI-intake, GERD-Health-related-Quality-of-Life (GERD-HRQL) and Alimentary Satisfaction were assessed. Sixty-eight patients underwent MSA, 26 patients had additional crural closure. PH-monitoring was negative in 80% of HR, 73% of NHR and 89% of NHH-patients. GERD-HRQL-total scores decreased significantly in all groups (p < 0.001). Alimentary satisfaction was 8/10 in HR/NHH and 10/10 in NHR-patients. Satisfaction with heartburn relief was high (HR: 96%, NR: 95%, NHH: 94%) as was the elimination of PPI-intake (HR/NHH: 87%, NR: 86%). Heartburn and regurgitations were eliminated in 100% of HR, 88% and 94% of NHR and 87% and 91% of NHH-patients. Endoscopic dilatation or device explantation was performed in 3% each. MSA leads to significant symptom relief, increased quality of life and alimentary satisfaction with low perioperative morbidity. Cruroplasty tends to result in better reflux control and symptom relief than exclusive MSA without increasing dysphagia rates.

Background and Aim: Symptomatic cervical heterotopic gastric mucosa, also known as cervical inlet patch (CIP), may present in various shapes and causes laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Unfortunately, argon plasma coagulation, standard treatment of small symptomatic CIP, is limited in large CIP mainly because of concerns of stricture formation. Therefore, we aimed to investigate radiofrequency ablation (RFA), a novel minimally invasive ablation method, in the treatment of CIP focusing on large symptomatic patches., Methods: Consecutive patients with macroscopic and histological evidence of large (≥20 mm diameter) heterotopic gastric mucosa were included in this prospective trial. Primary outcome was complete macroscopic and histological eradication rate of CIP. Secondary outcome measures were symptom improvement, quality of life, severity of LPR and adverse events., Results: Ten patients (females, n = 5) underwent RFA of symptomatic CIP. Complete histological and macroscopic eradication of CIP was observed in 80% (females, n = 4) of individuals after two ablations. Globus sensations significantly improved from median visual analog scale score 8 (5-9) at baseline to 1.5 (1-7) after first ablation and 1 (1-2) after final evaluation (P < 0.001). Mental health scores significantly increased from 41.4 (± 8.5) to 54.4 (± 4.4) after RFA (P = 0.007). LPR improved significantly (P = 0.005) with absence of strictures after a mean follow up of 1.9 (± 0.5) years., Conclusions: This is the first study on RFA focusing on therapy of large symptomatic heterotopic gastric mucosa. Hereby, we demonstrate that this new technique can be successfully implemented in patients where treatment was limited so far (NCT03023280)., (© 2017 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.)

Introduction: The relationship between the Los Angeles (LA) grade of esophagitis and acid exposure by pH monitoring is unclear. The aim of this study was to correlate the results of pH testing in patients with esophagitis to determine at what LA grade of esophagitis a pH test is not necessary., Methods: A retrospective review was performed of the records of all patients who underwent upper endoscopy and were found to have esophagitis graded using the LA system and who had pH monitoring from 2014 to 2016. An abnormal pH test was determined based on the DeMeester score., Results: There were 56 patients with a median age of 57 years. Esophagitis was LA grade A in 19, B in 20, C in 15 and D in 2 patients. An abnormal pH score was present in 47 patients (84%). All patients with C or D esophagitis had an abnormal pH score compared to 79% and 75% of patients with A and B esophagitis, respectively., Conclusions: The presence of LA C or D esophagitis was always associated with increased esophageal acid exposure on pH testing and is proof of reflux disease. However, pH testing is recommended prior to antireflux surgery in patients with LA A or B esophagitis.

Background: Intramucosal esophageal adenocarcinoma can be reliably treated endoscopically. Controversy exists about the use of endotherapy versus esophagectomy for submucosal tumors. Increasingly endotherapy is considered for submucosal tumors in part because of the presumed high mortality with esophagectomy and the perceived poor prognosis in patients with nodal disease. This study was designed to assess survival following primary en bloc esophagectomy (EBE) in patients with submucosal esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC)., Methods: This is a retrospective review of all patients who underwent EBE for submucosal EAC between 1998 and 2015. No patient had neoadjuvant therapy., Results: There were 32 patients (28M/4F; median age 64 years). The median tumor size was 1.5 cm (0.4-8.0), and the median number of resected nodes was 48 (23-85). There was one perioperative death. Lymph node metastases were present in 7 patients (22%). There was one involved node in four patients and 2, 3, and 31 nodes in one patient each. The one N3 patient received adjuvant therapy. The median follow-up was 87 months. Overall survival at 5 and 10 years was 84 and 70% respectively. Disease-specific survival at 10 years was 90%. Eight patients died, but only three deaths (9%) were related to EAC. Disease-specific survival at 10 years in node-positive patients was 71%., Conclusions: Survival after primary en bloc esophagectomy for submucosal adenocarcinoma was excellent even in node-positive patients. Mortality with esophagectomy was low and far less than the 22% risk of node metastases in patients with submucosal tumor invasion. Esophagectomy should remain the preferred treatment for T1b esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Background: Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy is the standard treatment for locally advanced esophageal adenocarcinomas (EAC). Pathological response is thought to be a major prognostic factor. Aims of this study were to determine the frequency of complete response and to compare the survival of complete and incomplete responders in stage III EAC., Methods: A retrospective review was performed of all stage III patients that underwent neoadjuvant therapy followed by esophagectomy between 1999 and 2015. Patients were classified into complete (pCR) versus incomplete responders (pIR)., Results: 110 patients were included. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was applied in 25 (23%) and chemoradiotherapy in 85 (77%) patients. Pathologic response was complete in 25% (n = 27) and was more common after chemoradiotherapy. Mean F/U interval was 36 months (0.3-173). There was a significant difference in the overall survival between complete and incomplete responders (p = 0.036). Median survival in the pIR group was 24.4 months and the median survival was not reached during the observation time in pCR. The 3-year-survival-rate was 70% in pCR and 40% in pIR (p = 0.01). Positive lymph nodes (ypN+) were present in 56 patients (51%). The 3-year-survival-rate was 59% in pIR with ypN0 and 29% in pIR with ypN+ (p = 0.005)., Conclusions: Complete response to neoadjuvant therapy has a significantly better overall and 3-year-survival after esophagectomy than incomplete response. In incomplete responders, residual lymph node disease was associated with a significantly worse survival. These findings suggest that the degree of pathologic response and lymph node status are major prognostic factors for survival in EAC patients with stage III disease., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) has demonstrated long-term safety and efficacy in the treatment of patients with gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), but its efficacy in patients with large hiatal hernias has yet to be proven. The aim of our study was to assess outcomes of MSA in patients with hiatal hernias ≥3 cm., Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent MSA at our institutions over a 6-year period. Information obtained consisted of patient demographics, symptoms of GERD, preoperative GERD Health-Related Quality-of-Life (HRQL) scores, perioperative details, and implantation of the MSA device. Primary endpoints included postoperative GERD-HRQL scores, proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use, symptom change, and procedure-related complications. A large hiatal hernia was defined as a hernia measuring ≥3 cm by intraoperative measurement., Results: A total of 192 patients were reviewed. Median follow-up was 20 months (3-75 months). Mean GERD-HRQL scores in the overall population before and after MSA were 18.9 and 5.0, respectively (p < 0.001). In the majority of patients symptoms improved or resolved (N = 177, p < 0.001). Fifty-two patients (27.0 %) had a hiatal hernia ≥3 cm (range 3-7 cm). Their mean GERD-HRQL score decreased from 20.5 to 3.6 (p < 0.001) following MSA. When compared to patients with smaller hernias, patients with large hiatal hernias had decreased postoperative PPI requirement (9.6 vs. 26.6 %, p = 0.011) and lower mean postoperative GERD-HRQL scores (3.6 vs. 5.6, p = 0.027). The percent of patients requiring postoperative intervention for dysphagia was similar (13.5 vs. 17.9 %, p = 0.522), as was the incidence of symptom resolution or improvement (98.1 vs. 91.3 %, p = 0.118)., Conclusion: MSA in patients with large hiatal hernias demonstrates decreased postoperative PPI requirement and mean GERD-HRQL scores compared to patients with smaller hernias. The incidence of symptom resolution or improvement and the percentage of patients requiring intervention for dysphagia are similar. Short-term outcomes of MSA are encouraging in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and large hiatal hernias.

Introduction: Protracted dysphagia and bloating are potential troublesome side effects following Nissen fundoplication. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of conversion from Nissen to Toupet on dysphagia and bloating., Methods: The study used a retrospective chart review of all patients who had undergone conversion from Nissen to Toupet between 2001 and 2014. Endpoints were to determine the effect of conversion on dysphagia, bloating, and reflux control., Results: Twenty-five patients underwent conversion at a median of 3.7 years (1.4-10.5) after initial fundoplication. Indications were dysphagia in 19 (76%) and bloating syndrome in 6 (24%) patients. The median operative time was 104 min (86-146). There were no serious complications or mortality. Median follow-up was 27 months (0.8-130). Dysphagia was relieved in 16 (84%) and bloating in all 6 patients. Two patients developed reflux requiring a redo-Nissen. Two patients had persistent dysphagia and required endoscopic dilation. The GERD-HRQL post-conversion showed a median score of 5 (3-13)., Conclusions: Conversion relieved dysphagia in 84% and bloating in 100%. Significant recurrence of GERD was rare. Given the absence of serious complications, conversion should be considered in patients with severe bloating or dysphagia.

Background and Objectives: Gastric cancer in young patients is rare. We analyzed the clinicopathological features and prognosis of early-onset gastric carcinoma., Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients with gastric adenocarcinoma aged ≤45 years and >45 years at our institution over a 17-year period. Clinicopathological features were compared and survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier curves., Results: A total of 121 patients with gastric carcinoma aged ≤45 years were identified. The young group (YG) had a higher incidence of stage III/IV disease (86.8% vs. 57.9%, P < 0.001), poorly-differentiated carcinoma (95.9% vs. 74.4%, P < 0.001), and signet-cell type tumor (88.4% vs. 32.2%, P < 0.001) relative to the older group (OG). The majority of tumors were in the middle third of the stomach in both groups (P = 0.108). Three-year survival in the YG was 87.1%, 32.2%, and 6.9% in stage I/II, III, and IV disease, respectively. Surgical intervention in young patients with advanced carcinoma was not associated with improved survival. Although median survival was shorter in the YG compared to the OG (11.7 vs. 41.0 months, P < 0.001), stage-specific survival was similar., Conclusion: Early-onset gastric cancer demonstrates advanced stage of disease, and a high incidence of poorly-differentiated and signet-cell type carcinoma. Overall survival is poor with no added benefit to surgical intervention in advanced disease., (© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: The tissue specificity and robustness of miRNAs may aid risk prediction in individuals diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus. As an initial step, we assessed whether miRNAs can positively distinguish esophageal adenocarcinoma from the precursor metaplasia Barrett's esophagus., Methods: In a case-control study of 150 esophageal adenocarcinomas frequency matched to 148 Barrett's esophagus cases, we quantitated expression of 800 human miRNAs in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue RNA using NanoString miRNA v2. We tested differences in detection by case group using the χ(2) test and differences in expression using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Bonferroni-corrected statistical significance threshold was set at P < 6.25E-05. Sensitivity and specificity were assessed for the most significant miRNAs using 5-fold cross-validation., Results: We observed 46 distinct miRNAs significantly increased in esophageal adenocarcinoma compared with Barrett's esophagus, 35 of which remained when restricted to T1b and T2 malignancies. Three miRNAs (miR-663b, miR-421, and miR-502-5p) were detected in >80% esophageal adenocarcinoma, but <20% of Barrett's esophagus. Seven miRNAs (miR-4286, miR-630, miR-575, miR-494, miR-320e, miR-4488, and miR-4508) exhibited the most extreme differences in expression with >5-fold increases. Using 5-fold cross-validation, we repeated feature (miR) selection and case-control prediction and computed performance criteria. Each of the five folds selected the same top 10 miRNAs, which, together, provided 98% sensitivity and 95% specificity., Conclusion: This study provides evidence that tissue miRNA profiles can discriminate esophageal adenocarcinoma from Barrett's esophagus. This large analysis has identified miRNAs that merit further investigation in relation to pathogenesis and diagnosis of esophageal adenocarcinoma., Impact: These candidate miRNAs may provide a means for improved risk stratification and more cost-effective surveillance., (©2015 American Association for Cancer Research.)

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common chronic disease requiring adequate treatment since it represents one major cause of development of Barrett's esophagus and eventually carcinoma. Novel laparoscopic magnetic sphincter augmentation for GERD was evaluated prospectively., Patients and Methods: A total of 23 patients with GERD underwent minimally invasive implantation of LINX™ Reflux Management System. Primary outcome measures were overall feasibility, short-term procedure safety and efficacy. Secondary GERD-related quality of life was assessed., Results: All implantations were performed without serious adverse events. A significant decrease in all major GERD complaints were found: heartburn: 96%-22% (p<0.001); bloating: 70%-30% (p=0.006); respiratory complaints: 57%-17% (p=0.039); sleep disturbance: 65%-4% (p<0.001). A four-week follow-up reduction of ≥50% of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) dose was achieved in over 80% of patients. Self-limiting difficulty in swallowing was found in 70% within four weeks. One patient required for endoscopic dilation. GERD-related quality of life improved significantly., Conclusion: LINX™ implantation is a standardized, technically simple, safe and well-tolerated expeditious procedure.

To date, due to the rarity, tumor biology and carcinogenesis of small bowel adenocarcinoma (SBA), the disease has been explored insufficiently and immunophenotyping and molecular characterization have not been finalized. This knowledge gap consecutively leads to an overt lack of diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations. In the current study, we provide our experience with the treatment of SBA, and demand for cross-national data pooling to enable unlimited information transfer and higher powered study. A comprehensive database of all patients with SBA was established and consecutively reviewed for clinicopathohistological data, information concerning preoperative evaluation, surgical and chemotherapeutical treatment, as well as outcome parameters. Patients underwent curative intended surgery (42.4%; n=14), adjuvant chemotherapy (CTX) following resection (36.4%; n=12) or palliative care (21.2%; n=7). The majority of patients were diagnosed at an advanced disease stage (pT3, 36.4%; pT4, 39.4%) and the duodenum was the most common tumor site (57.1%; n=20). Complete surgical resection was achieved in 88.5% of patients, while postoperative complications occurred in 19.4%. Within a mean follow-up period of 31.4 months, 17 patients succumbed to the disease following a median survival time of 11 months. Mean overall survival (OS) was 47.4, 25.3 and 9.8 months for surgically, surgically and chemotherapeutically and palliatively treated patients, respectively. Early surgical resection remains the mainstay in the treatment of localized SBA, since it is associated with a prolongation of OS. The role of neoadjuvant and adjuvant CTX has not yet been defined. Thus, since no consensus exists on the adequate treatment of these malignancies, we demand an international collaboration and cross-national data pooling to pave the way for the implementation of evidence-based standard care operating procedures.

Background: The efficacy of triple-drug combination regimens such as docetaxel, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (DCF), and epirubicin, oxaliplatin and capecitabine (EOX), is superior to standard cisplatin/5-fluorouracil in patients with upper gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma. In this analysis, we compare DCF and EOX regarding toxicity and efficacy., Patients and Methods: Patients received either intravenous docetaxel at 75 mg/m(2), cisplatin at 75 mg/m(2), both given on day 1, and 5-fluorouracil at 750 mg/m(2), on days 1 to 5, or epirubicin at 50 mg/m(2) i.v. on day 1, oxaliplatin at 130 mg/m(2) i.v. on day 1 and capecitabine at a twice-daily dose of 1000 mg/m(2) p.o. for two weeks; both regimens were repeated every three weeks., Results: Response rates for DCF and EOX were 28% and 10%, time-to-progression was 26 and 20 weeks, and overall survival were 54 and 52 weeks, respectively., Conclusion: We conclude that further investigations within comparative prospective clinical trials of these regimens are warranted.

The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of trabectedin treatment in patients with metastatic soft tissue sarcoma (STS) in the routine clinical setting. Further, the type and frequency of systemic treatments before commencing treatment with trabectedin and after its discontinuation, as well as the frequency of pulmonary metastasectomies, were analyzed. The current analysis includes retrospective data from consecutive STS patients treated with trabectedin at the Department of Medicine I, Division of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, between January 2008 and December 2012. Patients were analyzed for median progression-free survival, overall survival (OS), and therapy-related toxicity. Data of 60 STS patients were included in the present analysis. In total, 198 cycles of trabectedin were administered, whereas the median number of cycles administered per patient was two (range 1-25). The median progression-free survival was 2.2 months and the median OS (mOS) was 11.8 months. mOS calculated from the first time point of detection of metastatic disease was 35.8 months. The 18 patients (30%) who underwent pulmonary metastasectomy had an mOS of 50.2 months. Further, trabectedin had a manageable toxicity profile comparable to data reported in previous phase II trials. Our findings support the use of trabectedin as an active and feasible therapeutic option among advanced, metastatic, and refractory STS patients. The good safety profile and lack of cumulative toxicity allow prolonged administration in highly pretreated patients. As visible from the present data, a considerable percentage of patients with advanced/metastatic STS benefit from sequential lines of drug therapy as well as pulmonary metastasectomy.

Background: Esophagectomy represents the gold standard in the treatment of resectable esophageal cancer. Despite significant improvements in perioperative care, postoperative morbidity and mortality rates remain high. Minimally-invasive surgical techniques introduced to the surgical treatment of esophageal malignancies have been shown to successfully diminish surgical trauma and postoperative morbidity., Aim: In the present report we present the stepwise implementation of minimally-invasive techniques in the treatment of esophageal cancer at a high-volume center and its influence on overall patient outcome., Patients and Methods: A total of 165 consecutive patients with esophagectomy, in two 4-year periods, namely that before (period A) and that after (period B) the implementation of minimally-invasive esophagectomy (MIE) for cancer, were compared. Patients' characteristics, and perioperative, surgical, oncological and survival outcomes were compared., Results: In time period A, 73 patients were treated with open esophagectomy (OE), whereas in time period B 37 patients (40.2%) underwent an OE and 55 (59.8%) a minimally-invasive esophagectomy. Surgical and non-surgical complications did not differ significantly between groups (B: 44.6% vs. A: 54.8%; B: 38% vs. A: 35.6%; p>0.05). Duration of ventilation (B: 1.8 days vs. A: 6.7 days), ICU (B: 5.7 days vs. A: 12.2 days) and hospital stay (B: 20.5 days vs. A: 28.4 days) were significantly reduced in patients of time period B. The number of lymph nodes removed and complete resection rates were comparable (mean=18.1 ± 10.1 lymph nodes; B: 87% R0 vs. A: 93.2% R0). No significant differences between the groups were detectable regarding short-term disease-free or overall survival., Conclusion: The implementation of minimally-invasive esophagectomy is feasible, safe and has the potential to reduce perioperative morbidity without compromising oncological outcome.

Overexpression of the mucin-type sialoglycoprotein podoplanin in cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) was recently shown to be associated with tumor progression, metastasis and poor prognosis in lung and breast cancer. Here we investigate the role of podoplanin expressing CAFs in esophagal adenocarcinoma (AC), its precursor lesions and metastases. Podoplanin expression was investigated immunohistochemically in 200 formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded specimens of invasive esophagal ACs, their corresponding metastases and 35 precursor lesions. Podoplanin expressing CAFs (CAF+) were observed in 22 % of patients with invasive AC, but not in precursor lesions. CAF+ correlated with tumor stage (p = 0.004), lymphovascular tumor invasion (p = 0.018) and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.0016). Patients with CAF+ had a significant shorter disease free and overall survival (p < 0.05, Cox regression). Podoplanin expressing CAFs were only rarely observed in lymph node and distant metastases, as well as in local recurrences of ACs. Podoplanin expression in AC tumor cells was seen in only four cases. In around 20 % of patients with esophagal AC, podoplanin expressing CAFs are evident, defining a high risk subgroup. In these patients, podoplanin expressing CAFs might represent new therapeutical targets.

Background: The efficacy of triple-drug combination regimens such as epirubicin, oxaliplatin and capecitabine (EOX) is superior to standard cisplatin/5-fluorouracil, but considerable toxicity needs to be taken into account in patients with upper gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma. Therefore, we aimed to establish a modified version of the EOX regimen with improved tolerability for these patients., Patients and Methods: Patients received palliative first-line chemotherapy with a modified EOX regimen repeated every three weeks (epirubicin 50 mg/m(2) i.v., day 1; oxaliplatin 130 mg/m(2) i.v., day 1; capecitabine at a twice-daily dose of 1000 mg/m(2) p.o. for two weeks)., Results: Out of 51 patients, partial remission was observed in five (10.2%) and stable disease in 31 (60.8%). Progression-free survival was four months, and overall survival twelve months., Conclusion: Modified EOX was generally well-tolerated and, therefore, further investigation within prospective clinical trials is warranted.

Background: Discovery of the molecular pathogenesis of Gastrointestinal stromal tumors led to the development of targeted therapies, revolutionizing their treatment. However, surgery is still the mainstay of GIST therapy and the only chance for cure., Aim: Here we present a single institutional consecutive case series of 159 GIST-patients., Methods and Patients: A total of 159 GIST-patients who underwent resection between 1994 and 2011 were reviewed for clinicopathohistological data, informations on surgical and medical therapy and further follow-up, outcome and survival data., Results: Laparoscopic (25.2%) and open (71.1%) GIST surgery achieved complete resection rates of 97.5% and 85.2%, whereas 44.4% of incomplete and 6.6% of complete resected patients died from GIST. Compared to open surgery laparoscopy significantly reduced duration of operation (183.4 vs. 130.6 min), length of hospitalization (16.1 vs. 8.3 d) and morbidity (23% vs. 7.5%). Mean survival time was 3.7 ± 2.7 years (R0: 5.1 a and R1: 2.6 a) and the mean overall survival was 4.5 ± 3.8 years., Conclusion: Complete surgical resection is the primary goal and laparoscopy can be performed safely in a subset of GIST-patients with potential perioperative advantages. Although not proven by the present study the authors assume that multimodal GIST-treatment, as performed in reference-centers, is required for advanced or high risk disease. Our data suggest the potential for minimally invasive GIST resection to achieving comparable oncological outcomes as after open surgery while providing low morbidity rates., (Copyright © 2013 Surgical Associates Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)