Retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study of detection of recurrent Barrett's esophagus and dysplasia in post-ablation patients with adjunctive use of wide-area transepithelial sample (WATS-3D).

Background: Barrett's esophagus (BE) and dysplasia are often missed by Seattle protocol biopsies (SPB). Wide-area transepithelial sampling with 3-dimensional computer-assisted analysis (WATS-3D) with SPB improves detection in treatment-naïve patients. We aimed to determine to what extent WATS-3D adds to SPB in the detection of non-dysplastic BE (NDBE) and dysplasia in patients undergoing post-endoscopic eradication therapy (EET). Methods: This retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study included patients who presented for post-EET surveillance with SPB and WATS-3D sampling from April 2019 to February 2020. BE patients with no previous EET were excluded. For the outcomes of NDBE and any dysplastic/neoplastic finding, we calculated both relative and absolute increases in yield by WATS-3D over SBP. Results: In 78 patients [mean age 68±10.4 years, 66 (84.6%) male], the prevalence of NDBE, any dysplastic/neoplastic finding, and any abnormality (NDBE or dysplasia/neoplasia) were 53.85%, 10.26%, and 55.13%. The absolute increase in yield of NDBE with WATS-3D over SPB was 26.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.95-37.18%), with the number needed to treat (NNT) 3.71 (95%CI 2.69-5.57) and a relative increase in yield of 100% (95%CI 53.33-188.25%). For dysplasia/neoplasia, the absolute increase in yield was 6.4% (95%CI 1.28-12.82%), NNT 15.6 (95%CI 7.8-78.0), and relative increase of 167% (95%CI 33.33%-infinity). For any abnormal finding, the absolute increase in yield was 26.9% (95%CI 16.67-37.18%), NNT 3.71 (95%CI 2.69-6.00), and relative increase in yield 95% (95%CI 50-176.92%). Conclusions: WATS-3D with SPB improves the detection of residual/recurrent BE and dysplasia in post-ablation BE. However, randomized controlled trials are needed to validate these findings.

Development of a Computer-Tailored Intervention/Decision Aid To Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening in Health Systems.

Background Non-compliance with scheduled colonoscopy is common among patients, especially in underserved populations. High no-show and late cancelation rates result in wasted resources, increased costs, and missed opportunities for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Among the barriers to colonoscopy is a lack of knowledge about the benefits, fears, and limited time for patient counseling. Methodology We produced a digital video disc and a website program to enhance awareness about CRC screening and address patient barriers in a population with low screening adherence. Results Patients can be educated via an interactive computer-tailored intervention with both DVD and web versions. It details the benefits and need for CRC screening, different methods of screening, and addresses patient-related barriers. Conclusions Patient education is crucial to increase CRC screening among eligible individuals. Because online engagement is affected by attention, interest, and affect, content should be concise but comprehensive.

Delayed Removal of Entrapped Snare in Colonoscopic Polypectomy.

Snare entrapment is a rare complication of hot snare polypectomy of large colon polyps. We report a case of snare entrapment in our unit and its management. This report highlights the method of delayed removal of snare followed by repeat colonoscopy.

The Characteristics of Appendicoliths Associated with Acute Appendicitis.

Introduction Differences between appendicoliths associated with appendicitis and those found incidentally have not been studied. The objective of this study was to determine the characteristics of appendicoliths that are associated with acute appendicitis. Methods A cross-sectional study of patients with appendicoliths identified on computed tomographic (CT) scan from January 2008 till December 2014 was conducted. Patients were divided into two group: appendicitis and appendicoliths (AA) and incidentally discovered appendicoliths (IA). Results Overall, 321 patients were included in the study. Of these, 103 (32%) patients were in the AA group while 218 (68%) patients were in the IA group. Both groups were similar in age and gender distribution. Significantly greater proportion of patients in the AA group had more than one appendicolith [AA vs. IA: 63 (62%) vs. 82 (38%), p < 0.001], appendicolith location at the base [AA vs. IA: 34 (33%) vs. 33 (15%), p < 0.001] and appendicolith diameter of 5 mm or more [AA vs. IA: 71 (69%) vs. 28 (13%), p < 0.001]. On multivariate analysis, more than one appendicolith [Odds ratio (OR): 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.4; p = 0.02] and diameter of 5 mm or more (OR: 13, 95% CI: 7.1-23.6; p < 0.001) were independently associated with acute appendicitis. Conclusion Multiple appendicoliths and appendicoliths larger than 5 mm are associated with acute appendicitis.