Capsule endoscopy and panendoscopy: A journey to the future of gastrointestinal endoscopy.

In 2000, the small bowel capsule revolutionized the management of patients with small bowel disorders. Currently, the technological development achieved by the new models of double-headed endoscopic capsules, as miniaturized devices to evaluate the small bowel and colon [pan-intestinal capsule endoscopy (PCE)], makes this non-invasive procedure a disruptive concept for the management of patients with digestive disorders. This technology is expected to identify which patients will require conventional invasive endoscopic procedures (colonoscopy or balloon-assisted enteroscopy), based on the lesions detected by the capsule, i.e., those with an indication for biopsies or endoscopic treatment. The use of PCE in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, namely Crohn's disease, as well as in patients with iron deficiency anaemia and/or overt gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, after a non-diagnostic upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), enables an effective, safe and comfortable way to identify patients with relevant lesions, who should undergo subsequent invasive endoscopic procedures. The recent development of magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy to evaluate the upper GI tract, is a further step towards the possibility of an entirely non-invasive assessment of all the segments of the digestive tract, from mouth-to-anus, meeting the expectations of the early developers of capsule endoscopy.

Pan-Enteric Capsule Endoscopy: Current Applications and Future Perspectives.

Background: The role of capsule endoscopy in the evaluation of the small bowel is well established, and current guidelines position it as a first-line test in a variety of clinical scenarios. The advent of double-headed capsules further enabled the endoscopic assessment of colonic mucosa and the opportunity for a one-step noninvasive examination of the entire bowel (pan-enteric capsule endoscopy [PCE]). Summary: We reviewed the technical procedure and preparation of patients for PCE, as well as its current clinical applications and future perspectives. In non-stricturing and non-penetrating Crohn's disease affecting the small bowel and colon, PCE monitors disease activity by assessing mucosal healing, a major treatment outcome, with a higher diagnostic yield than cross-sectional imaging or conventional colonoscopy. Also in ulcerative colitis, double-headed capsules have been used to monitor disease activity noninvasively. Currently, validated scoring systems have been specifically devised for these double-headed capsules and permit a standardized assessment of the inflammatory burden. In suspected mid-lower digestive bleeding, some exploratory studies have demonstrated the feasibility and high diagnostic yield of PCE, which may work as a filter indicating which patients may benefit of further invasive procedures, namely, for planned hemostatic procedures. The possibility of using PCE is also discussed in the context of polyposis syndromes with simultaneous involvement of the small intestine and colon. Key Messages: PCE is a feasible, effective, and safe diagnostic procedure to evaluate the small bowel and colon. It has been increasingly explored in the setting of inflammatory bowel diseases and, more recently, in suspected mid-lower digestive bleeding. PCE is expected to reduce the demand for invasive procedures and expand the scope of noninvasive intestinal evaluation in the coming future.

Introdução: O papel da endoscopia por cápsula na avaliação do intestino delgado encontra-se bem estabelecido, e as orientações atuais posicionam-na como um teste de primeira linha numa variedade de cenários clínicos. O advento das cápsulas de dupla câmara permitiu expandir a sua aplicação para a avaliação endoscópica da mucosa do cólon, oferecendo a oportunidade de um exame não invasivo de todo o intestino (endoscopia pan-entérica por cápsula, PCE). Sumário: Procedemos a uma revisão de vários aspectos do procedimento e preparação dos doentes para a PCE, bem como as aplicações clínicas atuais e as perspetivas futuras das cápsulas de dupla câmara. Na doença de Crohn não estenosante e não penetrante localizada ao intestino delgado e cólon, a PCE permite monitorizar a atividade da doença e avaliar a cicatrização da mucosa, um indicador importante da eficácia da terapêutica, com um rendimento de diagnóstico superior aos métodos convencionais, nomeadamente os exames imagiológicos ou a colonoscopia invasiva. Também na colite ulcerosa, as cápsulas de dupla câmara têm sido utilizadas para monitorizar a atividade da doença de forma não invasiva. Existem índices endoscópicos validados e especificamente concebidos para as cápsulas de dupla câmara, que permitem uma avaliação sistematizada e quantificação objetiva da atividade inflamatória. Na suspeita de hemorragia digestiva média ou baixa, alguns estudos exploratórios demonstraram a aplicabilidade e o elevado rendimento diagnóstico da PCE, podendo funcionar como um filtro de modo a permitir indicar quais os doentes que mais irão beneficiar de um procedimento invasivo subsequente, nomeadamente para a realização de procedimentos hemostáticos dirigidos. A possibilidade de utilização da PCE é também discutida no contexto das síndromes de polipose com envolvimento simultâneo do intestino delgado e do cólon. Mensagens-chave: A PCE é um procedimento diagnóstico eficaz e seguro para avaliar diretamente a mucosa do intestino delgado e cólon. A sua aplicação tem vindo a expandir-se no contexto das Doenças Inflamatórias Intestinais e, mais recentemente, na suspeita de hemorragia digestiva média ou baixa. Existe a expectativa de que no futuro próximo possamos assistir a uma redução substancial da demanda por procedimentos endoscópicos invasivos, face à utilização crescente da PCE enquanto método de diagnóstico pan-intestinal não invasivo.

From Severe Anemia to Intestinal Hemangiomatosis, a Bumpy Road-A Case Report and Literature Review.

Gastrointestinal hemangiomas (GIH) are unusual vascular tumors found anywhere alongside the GI tract, the small bowel being the most common site. Diagnosis requires good clinical insight and modern imaging. This is a comprehensive review of the literature, starting from a new pediatric case diagnosed through exploratory laparotomy after complex imaging techniques failed. This research was conducted on published articles from the past 25 years. We identified seventeen original papers (two series of cases with three and two patients, respectively, and fifteen case reports). The female/male ratio was 1.5. The youngest patient was a 3-week-old boy, and the was oldest a 17-year-old girl. The most common localization was the jejunum (eight cases), followed by the ileum (four), colon (three), stomach (two), and rectum (one). Seven children had cavernous and four had capillary hemangiomas. Eight patients presented gastrointestinal bleeding, seven had refractory anemia, such as our index patient, three had recurrent abdominal pain, and two had bowel obstruction. Surgical assessment was successful in fifteen cases; three cases experienced great outcomes with oral propranolol, one child was treated successfully with sirolimus, and for one patient, endoscopic treatment was the best choice. The authors present the case of a female patient admitted to the Pediatrics Department of "Grigore Alexandrescu" Emergency Children's Hospital from 25 February to 28 March 2019 for severe anemia, refractory to oral iron treatment, and recurrent blood infusions. No clear bleeding cause had been found. Although very uncommon, intestinal hemangiomas can express puzzling, life-threatening symptoms. We should keep in mind this disorder in cases of unresponsive chronic anemia.

Vitamin-K Antagonists vs. Direct Oral Anticoagulants on Severity of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Retrospective Analysis of Italian and UK Data.

Background: Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is one of most frequent and significant challenges for emergency physicians and gastroenterologists. Mortality for upper (U) GIB is high, especially in the elderly and comorbid patients. However, there is scant evidence in the literature concerning an assessment of warfarin (VKA) and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in terms of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) severity. Aims: Using data from two different settings (Italy and the UK), we aimed to compare the impact of VKA and DOACs on the severity of UGIB. Methods: Retrospective bicentric study on adult patients under VKA or DOACs admitted either to the emergency department at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy or University College Hospital in London, UK, with suspected UGIB from 01/01/2017 to 31/12/2018. Univariate analysis with Fisher's exact test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used. Results: 106 patients (62 M/44 F; mean age 71.2 ± 16.9 yrs) were enrolled and divided into the VKA group (N = 57; M: 56%, mean age: 64.9 ± 21.3 yrs) and the DOAC group (N = 49; M: 61%; mean age: 77.6 ± 12.5 yrs). At univariate analysis, the VKA group presented two endoscopic diagnoses more frequently than the DOAC group (26% vs. 8%, p < 0.05), were more frequently endoscopically treated (44% vs. 22%, p < 0.05), rescoped (12% vs. 2%, p = 0.048) and hospitalized (79% vs. 53%, p = 0.01) with a longer length of stay, LOS (VKA: 58% > 5 days vs. DOAC: 68% < 5 days, p = 0.01). There was no difference in terms of hemoglobin level on admission, however the requirement of blood transfusions was higher in the VKA group (60% vs. 41%, p = 0.041). One third of the VKA group showed a lower platelet count than the DOAC group (33% vs. 8%, p = 0.01). No statistically significant differences for in-hospital mortality were observed. For the ANOVA, the type of anticoagulant used was the only significant predictor of need to rescope (p = 0.041) and a significant co-predictor for a LOS > 5 days (p = 0.009; as well as cirrhosis, p = 0.013 and age, p = 0.005). Conclusions: Our outcomes revealed a more severe UGIB in patients on VKA, but the impact of comorbidities (i.e., more cirrhotic patients in the VKA group) cannot be disregarded. DOAC subgroup descriptive analysis, even though on a little cohort, showed higher bleeding severity for rivaroxaban.

European Reference Network for Rare Vascular Diseases (VASCERN): When and how to use intravenous bevacizumab in Hereditary Haemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT)?

Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare vascular multisystemic disease that leads to epistaxis, anaemia due to blood loss, and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in organs such as the lungs, liver and brain. HHT prevalence is estimated at 1/6000, i.e. around 85,000 European citizens, and is served by the European Reference Network for Rare Multisystemic Vascular Diseases (VASCERN). HHT treatments depend on clinical manifestations, and span multiple different medical, surgical and interventional disciplines. Separate to local treatments in the nose, in severe settings, intravenous bevacizumab has been proposed as treatment option, and the purpose of the current article is to assess the use of intravenous bevacizumab in patients with HHT in 2022 according to available data.

Combined Pharmacological and Endoscopic Treatment for Worsening Gastroesophageal Varices in Patients with Cirrhosis.

Background: At the present time, in patients with liver cirrhosis and gastroesophageal varices, primary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding made with combination therapy with non-selective ß-blockers (NSBBs) and endoscopic band ligation (EBL) is not recommended. The aim of this study was to evaluate if patients with worsening varices while on NSBBs regimen benefit, in terms of bleeding and survival, from adding treatment with EBL. Methods: Patients with cirrhosis and endoscopic finding of gastroesophageal varices with high risk feature (increased variceal size and/or development of red signs) during primary prophylaxis with NSBBs, followed at the Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, University and General Hospital of Padova, Italy, from 2012 to 2019, were retrospectively evaluated. When an increased bleeding risk of the varices was confirmed, patients maintained the pharmacological therapy alone or underwent also EBL. The primary endpoint of the study was the rate of variceal bleeding, the secondary endpoint was mortality at 30 months. Results: Compared to patients treated only with NSBBs (n=56), in patients treated also with EBL (n=45), the 30-month probability of variceal bleeding (29.1% vs 5.1%; P =0.036) was significantly reduced, while the probability of survival was similar (59.6% vs 65.7%; P=0.61). On multivariate analysis, treatment with EBL was found to be a weak protective factor for mortality (HR 0.47, P=0.044). Conclusion: In patients with liver cirrhosis, when varices show endoscopic feature of increased haemorrhagic risk, adding EBL to NSBBs is effective in reducing the probability of first bleeding.

Caracterización de adultos mayores con diagnóstico de cáncer colorrectal / Characterization of elderly with diagnosis of colorectal neoplasm

Introducción: El cáncer colorrectal es la neoplasia más frecuente de las vías digestivas en adultos mayores, así como la cuarta más diagnosticada en hombres y la tercera en mujeres. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los adultos mayores con cáncer colorrectal egresados del Hospital Provincial Clínico-Quirúrgico Docente Amalia Simoni de Camagüey. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal de 145 adultos mayores egresados del Hospital Provincial Clínico-Quirúrgico Docente Amalia Simoni de Camagüey con el diagnóstico de cáncer colorrectal, desde enero de 2016 hasta igual mes de 2019, de los que se escogió una muestra de 103 de ellos, teniendo en cuenta criterios de inclusión y de exclusión. Las variables analizadas fueron: grupo de edades, antecedentes patológicos personales, formas de presentación de la enfermedad, localización del tumor y diagnóstico histológico. Resultados: Predominaron el grupo etario de 60- 69 años (41,7 %), las féminas (56,3 %), el adenoma velloso y la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal como antecedentes patológicos personales (36,8 y 30,1 %, respectivamente), el sangrado digestivo bajo como forma de presentación (43,6 %), el lado izquierdo del colon como localización más afectada (76,7 %) y los adenocarcinomas bien diferenciados según el diagnóstico histológico (41,7 %). Conclusiones: Resulta importante la pesquisa activa para la detección temprana del cáncer colorrectal, principalmente en pacientes de 60 años y más, con antecedentes patológicos personales de adenoma velloso y enfermedad intestinal inflamatoria, que refieran sangrado digestivo bajo.

Introduction: The colorectal cancer is the most frequent neoplasia of the digestive tract in elderly, as well as the fourth more diagnosed in men and the third in women. Objective: To characterize the patients with colorectal cancer discharged from Amalia Simoni Teaching Clinical-Surgical Provincial Hospital in Camagüey. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study of 145 patients discharged from Amalia Simoni Teaching Clinical-Surgical Provincial Hospital in Camagüey with the diagnosis of colorectal cancer, was carried out from January, 2016 to the same month in 2019, a sample of 103 of them was chosen, taking into account inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analyzed variables were: age groups, personal pathological history, forms of presentation of the disease, localization of the tumor and histologic diagnosis. Results: There was a prevalence of the 60-69 age group (41.7 %), women (56.3 %), hairy adenoma and the intestinal inflammatory disease as personal pathological history (36.8 and 30.1 %, respectively), low digestive bleeding as form of presentation (43.6 %), the left side of the colon as more affected localization (76.7 %) and well differentiated adenocarcinomas according to the histologic diagnosis (41.7 %). Conclusions: It is important the active investigation for the early detection of the colorectal cancer, mainly in patients of 60 years and over, with personal pathological history of hairy adenoma and inflammatory intestinal disease that refer low digestive bleeding.

Anemia y patología digestiva / Anemia and digestive diseases / Anemia e patologia digestiva

Cada vez más los pacientes diagnosticados con anemia son referidos al gastroenterólogo para su evaluación. La necesidad de realizar un adecuado planteo clínico y una correcta interpretación de las pruebas de diagnóstico ha motivado la revisión de este tema. Varios trastornos gastroenterológicos, con frecuencia, conducen a anemia como resultado de pérdidas sanguíneas, inflamación, malabsorción o a consecuencia de las terapias farmacológicas. En algunas patologías como la cirrosis, EII o neoplasias las causas son a menudo multifactoriales. Esta revisión, pretende proporcionar un enfoque útil para la práctica clínica. Para ello se ha revisado la información actualizada acerca de la patogénesis, diagnóstico y tratamiento de la anemia vinculada a patologías digestivas y se han confeccionados cuadros y algoritmos para facilitar su comprensión.

More and more patients diagnosed with anemia are referred to the gastroenterologist for evaluation. The need to carry out an adequate clinical approach and a correct interpretation of diagnostic tests has motivated this review. Several digestive diseases frequently lead to anemia because of blood loss, inflammation, malabsorption, or drug therapies. In some of them such as cirrhosis, IBD or neoplasms, the etiology is multifactorial. This review is intended to provide a useful approach to clinical practice. To this aim, updated information on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of anemia related to digestive diseases has been reviewed, and tables and algorithms have been built to favor its understanding.

Cada vez mais pacientes diagnosticados com anemia são encaminhados ao gastroenterologista para avaliação. A necessidade de realizar uma abordagem clínica adequada e uma interpretação correta dos testes de diagnóstico motivou a revisão deste tema. Vários distúrbios gastroenterológicos freqüentemente levam à anemia como resultado de perda de sangue, inflamação, má absorção ou pelas próprias terapias farmacológicas. Em algumas patologias como cirrose, DII ou neoplasias, as causas costumam ser multifatoriais. Esta revisão visa fornecer uma abordagem útil à prática clínica. Para esse fim, foram revisadas informações atualizadas sobre a patogênese, o diagnóstico e o tratamento da anemia associada à patologia digestiva e foram elaboradas tabelas e algoritmos para facilitar seu entendimento.

Multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia: phenotypic variability and response to rapamycin. / Linfagioendoteliomatosis multifocal con trombopenia: variabilidad fenotípica y respuesta a rapamicina.

INTRODUCTION: Multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia (MLT) is characterized by multiple maculopapular lesions involving the stomach and the lungs, associated with thrombocytopenia as a result of platelet entrapment. Episodes of severe digestive bleeding, which are sometimes unmanageable, are one of its most frequent presentations and a cause of mortality. Our objective was to describe the various phenotypes, as well as our treatment experience. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with MLT in our vascular abnormality unit from 2007 to 2018 was carried out. Epidemiological, clinical, and evolution data were analyzed, and a long-term follow-up was performed. RESULTS: Five patients (3 boys and 2 girls) had congenital macules and erythematous papules of various sizes. They were later associated with episodes of severe hematemesis along with thrombocytopenia, which required blood product transfusion. The most frequently involved areas were the stomach and the colon. In two patients, multiple bilateral pulmonary nodules were noted. The anatomical pathology examination showed extended vessels with a prominent, hobnail endothelium, as well as intraluminal papillary projections in the dermis. Immunohistochemical analysis was CD-31 positive and CD-34 positive in a characteristic manner. Two patients were treated with mTOR inhibitors (rapamycin), with a progressive decrease in extracutaneous involvement and platelet recovery, but with a poor response in dermal lesions. Two patients were treated with vincristine, with a reduction of digestive bleeding episodes. No deaths were reported in our series. CONCLUSION: MLT is characterized by hematological and cutaneous involvement - sometimes minimal -, with potential lesions in other internal organs. Its heterogeneous presentation, which may start with severe digestive bleeding, makes this rare pathology difficult to diagnose. mTOR inhibitors have opened up new treatment possibilities.

INTRODUCCION: La linfangioendoteliomatosis multifocal con trombopenia (LMT) es una anomalía, caracterizada por múltiples lesiones maculo-papulosas con afectación visceral gástrica y pulmonar, asociado a trombopenia por atrapamiento plaquetar. Una de sus presentaciones más frecuentes es en forma de episodios de hemorragia digestiva severa, en ocasiones inmanejable, y que es la responsable de su mortalidad. Nuestro objetivo es describir los diferentes fenotipos, así como nuestra experiencia en su tratamiento. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Hemos realizado un análisis retrospectivo de los pacientes diagnósticos de LMT según las características histológicas típicas entre 2007 y 2018 en nuestra unidad de anomalías vasculares. Se analizaron datos epidemiológicos, clínicos y de evolución, así como seguimiento a largo plazo. RESULTADOS: Cinco pacientes (3 hombres y 2 mujeres) presentaron al nacimiento máculas y pápulas eritematosas de diferentes tamaños a los que más adelante se les asoció episodios de hematemesis graves junto a trombopenia, que llegaron a requerir transfusión de hemoderivados. Las regiones más afectadas fueron el estómago seguido del colon. En dos pacientes se detectaron múltiples nódulos pulmonares bilaterales. La anatomía patológica describió vasos alargados con endotelio prominente y en tachuela junto a proyecciones papilares intraluminales en dermis. La inmunohistoquímica fue positiva de forma característica para CD-31 y CD-34. Dos pacientes fueron tratados con inhibidores de mTOR (rapamicina) con disminución progresiva de la afectación extracutánea y recuperación plaquetar, pero con una pobre respuesta de las lesiones dérmicas. Dos pacientes fueron tratados con vincristina con reducción de los episodios de sangrado digestivo. No se registró ningún fallecimiento en nuestra serie. CONCLUSION: La LMT se caracteriza por una afectación cutánea, a veces mínima, y hematológica que puede asociar lesiones en otros órganos internos. La presentación heterogénea, pudiendo debutar con hemorragias digestivas severas, hacen de esta entidad una patología de difícil diagnóstico. Los inhibidores de mTOR han abierto una nueva vía que arroja cierta esperanza para el tratamiento de esta patología tan poco frecuente.

Linfagioendoteliomatosis multifocal con trombopenia: variabilidad fenotípica y respuesta a rapamicina / Multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia: phenotypic variability and response to rapamycin

Introducción: La linfangioendoteliomatosis multifocal con trom-bopenia (LMT) es una anomalía, caracterizada por múltiples lesionesmaculo-papulosas con afectación visceral gástrica y pulmonar, asociadoa trombopenia por atrapamiento plaquetar. Una de sus presentacionesmás frecuentes es en forma de episodios de hemorragia digestiva severa,en ocasiones inmanejable, y que es la responsable de su mortalidad.Nuestro objetivo es describir los diferentes fenotipos, así como nuestraexperiencia en su tratamiento. Material y métodos: Hemos realizado un análisis retrospectivo delos pacientes diagnósticos de LMT según las características histológicastípicas entre 2007 y 2018 en nuestra unidad de anomalías vasculares.Se analizaron datos epidemiológicos, clínicos y de evolución, así comoseguimiento a largo plazo. Resultados: Cinco pacientes (3 hombres y 2 mujeres) presentaron alnacimiento máculas y pápulas eritematosas de diferentes tamaños a losque más adelante se les asoció episodios de hematemesis graves juntoa trombopenia, que llegaron a requerir transfusión de hemoderivados. Las regiones más afectadas fueron el estómago seguido del colon. Endos pacientes se detectaron múltiples nódulos pulmonares bilaterales. Laanatomía patológica describió vasos alargados con endotelio prominentey en tachuela junto a proyecciones papilares intraluminales en dermis. Lainmunohistoquímica fue positiva de forma característica para CD-31 y CD-34. Dos pacientes fueron tratados con inhibidores de mTOR (rapamicina)con disminución progresiva de la afectación extracutánea y recuperaciónplaquetar, pero con una pobre respuesta de las lesiones dérmicas. Dospacientes fueron tratados con vincristina con reducción de los episodiosde sangrado digestivo. No se registró ningún fallecimiento en nuestra serie. Conclusión: La LMT se caracteriza por una afectación cutánea,a veces mínima, y hematológica que puede asociar lesiones en otrosórganos internos...(AU)

Introduction: Multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with throm-bocytopenia (MLT) is characterized by multiple maculopapular lesionsinvolving the stomach and the lungs, associated with thrombocytopeniaas a result of platelet entrapment. Episodes of severe digestive bleed-ing, which are sometimes unmanageable, are one of its most frequentpresentations and a cause of mortality. Our objective was to describe thevarious phenotypes, as well as our treatment experience. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of patients diag-nosed with MLT in our vascular abnormality unit from 2007 to 2018 wascarried out. Epidemiological, clinical, and evolution data were analyzed,and a long-term follow-up was performed. Results: Five patients (3 boys and 2 girls) had congenital maculesand erythematous papules of various sizes. They were later associatedwith episodes of severe hematemesis along with thrombocytopenia,which required blood product transfusion. The most frequently involvedareas were the stomach and the colon. In two patients, multiple bilateralpulmonary nodules were noted. The anatomical pathology examinationshowed extended vessels with a prominent, hobnail endothelium, as wellas intraluminal papillary projections in the dermis. Immunohistochemi-cal analysis was CD-31 positive and CD-34 positive in a characteristicmanner. Two patients were treated with mTOR inhibitors (rapamycin),with a progressive decrease in extracutaneous involvement and plateletrecovery, but with a poor response in dermal lesions. Two patients weretreated with vincristine, with a reduction of digestive bleeding episodes. No deaths were reported in our series. Conclusion: MLT is characterized by hematological and cutaneousinvolvement – sometimes minimal –, with potential lesions in otherinternal organs...(AU)

Are bedside colonoscopies performed in intensive care unit really useful?

PURPOSE: Effectiveness of bedside Colonoscopies in Intensive Care Unit (CICU) might be limited by the poor quality of colonic preparation, and their feasibility. We sought to describe the indications and the profitability of CICU. METHODS: Retrospective, bicenter observational study (2004-2015) in unselected critically ill patients. We questioned the clinical profitability of CICU, according to its indications and preparation. RESULTS: One hundred and eleven CICU were performed in 84 patients (sex ratio 1.4, 49 M/35F; age 72.9 years [61.7-84.7]), for lower gastro-intestinal bleeding in 67 patients (LGIB, 60.3%) and for other causes in 44 (39.6%). The profitability was more frequent when CICU was performed for another reason than LGIB (75% vs 28.3%; p < 0.0001). Preparation was good in 47 procedures (42.3%) and allowed 33 complete CICU (29.7%). Fifty-six CICU (50.4%) were performed as a 2nd investigation after a contrast enhanced computed tomography. Three CICU were complicated by 3 hemodynamic and 2 respiratory failures, but none of them were fatal. CONCLUSIONS: CICU is clinically useful in half of cases, in the diagnostic and the therapeutic management of critically ill patients. Its profitability is close to scheduled colonoscopies and superior in non-lower gastro-intestinal bleeding indications.

Experience with the use of a hemostatic powder in 152 patients undergoing urgent endoscopy for gastrointestinal bleeding.

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: In the recent years, topical hemostatic powders have been used for the management of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The aim of this study was to report on the use of an hemostatic powder (Hemospray®), outside regular hours, by on-call endoscopists during urgent endoscopic procedures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this retrospective multicenter cohort study, consecutive patients having undergone an urgent endoscopy with the use of Hemospray® from November 2015 to December 2018 in the Paris and suburbs area were included. We collected clinical, biological and endoscopic variables. The outcomes such as the recurrence, repeat endoscopy and hemostatic treatment need, complications and survival were also collected. RESULTS: A total of 152 patients (mean 65 years old, 70.4% male) were included. Amongst the 31 endoscopists, 11 were "more experienced", and performed 48% of the endoscopies. The most common causes of bleeding were peptic ulcer (47.7%), malignancy (22.2%) and esophagitis (12.4%). Most bleedings originated from the upper GI tract (95.0%). Hemospray® was used as a salvage therapy in 60.8% of cases. Other hemostatic techniques were used in 52.9% of cases. Immediate bleeding cessation was noted in 79.0% of cases, recurrence in 39.9% of cases, and 26.4% of patients benefited from a repeat endoscopic hemostasis. 34 (23.0%) patients required a non-endoscopic treatment. At day 30, the survival rate was 71.6%. One complication was reported (perforation). CONCLUSIONS: Hemostatic powder application by on-call endoscopists outside regular hours is technically feasible, but comes with a high risk of rebleeding in severely ill patients.

Reducing upper digestive bleeding risk in patients treated with direct oral anticoagulants and concomitant infection with Helicobacter pylori.

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) such as apixaban or dabigatran are excellent options in preventing embolic cardiovascular events. Observational studies have shown that gastrointestinal bleeding risks produced by DOACs could be lowered when correcting some host co-factors i.e. Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection. The upper digestive bleeding (UDB) rates in patients with DOAC indication and the usefulness of anti-HP therapy addition were compared. An observational retrospective study was conducted of medical records of 260 patients treated with DOACs, 130 of whom were concomitantly treated for HP infection in accordance with Maastricht V/Florence consensus. The severity of bleeding, the complexity of endoscopic treatment required to stop the bleeding, the re-bleeding rates, the surgical treatment indication and the overall mortality rates were compared between the groups. The risk of UDB was higher in HP-untreated patients in both types of DOACs used (respectively 2.08, 2.02). HP-untreated Forrest Ia/Ib/IIa and IIb DOACs patients had more severe bleedings compared with same class of HP-treated patients (P=0.007/0.005; 0.009/0.006; 0.048/0.005, 0.044/0.049, respectively). Endoscopic treatments such as adrenaline injections combined with metallic clip attachments were more frequently mandatory in HP-untreated DOACs patients for classes Ia/b and IIa (respectively, P=0.000/0.001, P=0.003/0.003). The re-bleeding rates were higher in HP-untreated patients with concomitant DOACs (OR 82.5; 95% CI 30.1-121.7; P=0.005). A history of peptic ulcer or UDB was associated with a 2.9-fold higher risk of UDB in HP-untreated compared with HP-treated patients, slightly increased for dabigatran compared with apixaban (RR 3.06, 2.72, P<0.5, respectively). Surgical intervention and the UDB-related mortality rates were higher in HP-untreated patients (P=0.041/0.044, P=0.007, respectively). HP-eradication treatment and bacterial clearance improve the safety profile of DOACs treatment, especially in fragile patients, in whom the UDB rates can be lowered, and the overall outcome can be enhanced by this combined approach.

Caracterización clínica, endoscópica e histológica de los pólipos colorrectales en pacientes de edades pediátricas. Matanzas / Clinical, endoscopic and pathological characterization of colorectal polyps in pediatric patients, Matanzas

Resumen Introducción: los pólipos del colon son los tumores más comunes del tracto gastrointestinal. Se presentan relativamente frecuentes en niños. El método eficaz para su diagnóstico es la colonoscopia que permite su tratamiento mediante la polipectomía. Objetivo: determinar las características clínicas, endoscópicas e histológicas de los pólipos colorrectales, diagnosticados en niños atendidos en el Hospital Pediátrico Provincial "Eliseo Noel Caamaño", de la ciudad de Matanzas. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo en niños diagnosticados con pólipos colorrectales y atendidos en el hospital. En el período comprendido del 2010 al 2018. Se estudiaron 141 pacientes menores de 18 años, con diagnóstico de pólipos por colonoscopia confirmado en el estudio histológico. Se excluyeron los pacientes con diagnósticos diferentes a pólipos y aquellos que no se pudieron estudiar histológicamente. Resultados: se observó mayor frecuencia de pacientes con pólipos en las edades entre 1 y 10 años (37,6 %), del sexo masculino (57,4 %). Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron el sangramiento digestivo bajo, (96,3 %) y prolapso de masa T por el recto, (27 %). Los pólipos estudiados se localizaron con mayor frecuencia en rectosigmoide (73, 4 %), predominando los pólipos únicos (78 %), pediculados (56,2 %), de 1-2 cm de tamaño (53,2 %). Histológicamente predominaron los pólipos juveniles, (62,1 %) seguidos de los inflamatorios (33 %). Conclusiones: los pólipos fueron más frecuentes en las edades de 1 y 10 años y en el sexo masculino. Se demostró la importancia de la colonoscopia en el diagnóstico precoz de estas lesiones (AU).

ABSTRACT Introduction: colon polyps are the most common tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. They are found relatively frequently in children. The efficacious method for their treatment is the colonoscopy, allowing their treatment through polypectomy. Objective: to determine the histological, endoscopic and clinical characteristics of colorectal polyps diagnosed in children who attended the Pediatric Provincial Hospital "Eliseo Noel Caamaño", of Matanzas. Materials and methods: a retrospective, descriptive study was carried out in children diagnosed with colorectal polyps in the hospital in the period from 2010 to 2018. 141 patients under 18 years-old were studied, all with diagnosis of polyps by colonoscopy confirmed in the histological study. The patients with different diagnosis but polyps were excluded, and also those who could not be histologically studied. Results: the highest frequency of patients with polyps was found in ages between 1 and 10 years (37,6 %), and the male sex (57.4 %). The most frequent symptoms were low digestive bleeding (96.3 %) and Mass T prolapse through the rectum (27 %). The studied polyps were more frequently located in the rectosigmoid (73.4 %). The single polyps predominated (78 %)m and the pedunculated ones (56.2 %) of 1-2 cm size (53.2 %). Histologically predominated young polyps (62.1 %), followed by the inflammatory ones (33 %). Conclusions: polyps were more frequent at the ages from 1 to 10 years and in the male sex. The authors showed the importance of colonoscopy in the precocious diagnosis of these lesions (AU).

Predictors of rebleeding and in-hospital mortality in patients with nonvariceal upper digestive bleeding.

BACKGROUND: Nonvariceal upper digestive bleeding (NVUDB) represents a severe emergency condition and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Despite a decrease in the incidence due to the widespread use of potent therapy with proton pump inhibitors as well as the implementation of modern endoscopic techniques, the mortality rate associated with NVUDB is still high. AIM: To identify the clinical, biological, and endoscopic parameters associated with a poor outcome in patients with NVUDB to allow the stratification of risk, which will lead to the implementation of the most accurate management. METHODS: We performed a retrospective study including patients who were admitted to the Gastroenterology Department of Clinical Emergency County Hospital Timisoara, Romania, with a diagnosis of NVUDB between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2016. All the data were collected from the patient's records, including demographic data, medication history, hemodynamic status, paraclinical tests, and endoscopic features as well as the methods of hemostasis, rate of rebleeding, need for surgery and death; we also assessed the Rockall score of the patients, length of hospitalization and associated comorbidities. All these parameters were evaluated as potential risk factors associated with rebleeding and death in patients with NVUDB. RESULTS: We included a batch of 1581 patients with NVUDB, including 523 (33%) females and 1058 (67%) males with a median age of 66 years. The main cause of NVUDB was peptic ulcer (73% of patients). More than one-third of the patients needed endoscopic treatment. Rebleeding rate was 7.72%; surgery due to failure of endoscopic hemostasis was needed in 3.22% of cases; the in-hospital mortality rate was 8.09%, and the bleeding-episode-related mortality rate was 2.97%. Although our predictive models for rebleeding and death had a low sensitivity, the specificity was very high, suggesting a better discriminative capacity for identifying patients with better outcomes. Our results showed that the Rockall score was associated with both rebleeding and death; comorbidities such as respiratory conditions, liver cirrhosis and sepsis increased significantly the risk of in-hospital mortality (OR of 3.29, 2.91 and 8.03). CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that the Rockall score, need for endoscopic therapy, necessity of transfusion and sepsis were risk factors for rebleeding. Moreover, an increased Rockall score and the presence of comorbidities were predictive factors for in-hospital mortality.

Tratamiento endoscópico del sangrado digestivo alto por úlcera péptica / Endoscopic treatment of the high digestive bleeding by peptic ulcer

RESUMEN Introducción: la hemorragia digestiva alta ocurre por una lesión sangrante localizada entre el esfínter esofágico superior y el ángulo de Treitz. Objetivo: determinar el comportamiento del tratamiento endoscópico del sangrado digestivo alto por úlcera péptica, en el departamento de Gastroenterología del Hospital Universitario Comandante "Faustino Pérez". Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo para evaluar el resultado del tratamiento endoscópico en el sangrado digestivo alto por úlcera péptica en el Hospital Universitario Comandante "Faustino Pérez" de Matanzas, de enero del 2016 a febrero del 2018. El tratamiento endoscópico fue la inyectoterapia con epinefrina al 1:10000. Se analizaron las variables: grupo de edades, sexo, resultado del tratamiento endoscópico, estigmas endoscópicos de sangrado, recidiva hemorrágica, mortalidad directa, necesidad de cirugía, estadía hospitalaria y cantidad de unidades transfusionales. Resultados: se constató un predominio de pacientes masculinos (87.5 %), menores de 60 años (70%). Prevalecieron los pacientes con estigmas endoscópicos de sangrado activo venoso (45%). La terapia endoscópica tuvo un resultado satisfactorio (92.5%) en su mayoría. La ocurrencia de resangrado (45%), mortalidad directa por hemorragia digestiva, promedio de estadía hospitalaria, cantidad de unidades transfusionales y necesidad de intervención quirúrgica de urgencia (17.5%), resultó similar a los estudios reportados, demostrando que la inyectoterapia endoscópica aún constituye una opción eficaz si no se cuenta con otras terapias endoscópicas. Conclusiones: la mayoría de los casos tratados con inyectoterapia endoscópica tuvieron un sangrado activo venoso o Forrest IB que fue satisfactoria. La inyectoterapia no satisfactoria fue en pacientes con sangrado activo. La mortalidad directa relacionada con el sangrado fue infrecuente y en relación con el sangrado arterial. Se demostró que la inyectoterapia endoscópica aún constituye una opción eficaz si no se cuenta con otras terapias endoscópicas (AU).

SUMMARY Introduction: high digestive bleeding happens due to a bleeding lesion located between the upper anatomical sphincter of the esophagus and the angle of Treitz. Objective: to determine the endoscopic treatment behavior of high digestive bleeding caused by peptic ulcer, in the department of Gastroenterology of the University Hospital "Comandante Faustino Perez". Materials and methods: a prospective descriptive study was carried out to evaluate the result of the endoscopic treatment in high digestive bleeding caused by peptic ulcer in the University Hospital "Comandante Faustino Perez", of Matanzas, from January 2016 to February 2018. The endoscopic treatment was injecto-therapy with epinephrine at 1:10000. The analyzed variables were: age group, sex, result of the endoscopic treatment, bleeding endoscopic stigma, hemorrhagic relapse, direct mortality, surgery necessity, hospital staying, and quantity of transfusion units. Results: male patients (87.5 %), aged less than 60 years predominated. Patients with endoscopic stigma of venous active bleeding (45 %) prevailed. In most of cases, endoscopic therapy achieved satisfactory results (92.5 %). The authors found that bleeding relapse (45 %), direct mortality by digestive hemorrhage, average hospital staying, quantity of transfusion units and necessity of urgent surgeries (17.5 %) were similar to those reported in other studies. Conclusions: most cases treated with endoscopic injectotherapy had active venous or Forrest IB bleeding and treatment was satisfactory. Therapy was unsatisfactory in patients with active bleeding. The direct mortality related to bleeding was infrequent, and related to arterial bleeding. It was showed that endoscopic injectotherapy is still an efficacious option if other endoscopic therapies are not available (AU).

Embolización venosa transcatéter de várices gástricas con coils / Transcatheter venous coil embolization of gastric varices

Resumen Los espirales de embolización (coils o microcoils) son los agentes más comúnmente usados, con un éxito técnico reportado en aproximadamente el 81-100 % de los casos. Los espirales o coils se encuentran disponibles en una amplia variedad de configuraciones y tamaños, lo que permite acomodarse a vasos de distintos calibres; además, por su buena radiopacidad, tienen la ventaja de ser liberados con precisión. Los espirales o coils son el análogo de una ligadura arterial quirúrgica, debido a que producen una oclusión mecánica por su posicionamiento en el lumen vascular, lo que disminuye el flujo sanguíneo, y sus fibras sintéticas tienen un efecto trombogénico adicional. Caso: presentamos cuatro casos del Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de pacientes con várices gástricas tratadas satisfactoriamente con embolización transcatéter con coils, los cuales tuvieron un buen resultado técnico; además presentamos una revisión de la literatura.

Abstract Coils and microcoils, the most commonly used embolization agents, have reported technical success rates ranging from 81% to 100% of cases. The spirals or coils are available in a wide variety of configurations and sizes which fit into vessels of different calibers. They have good radiopacity allowing for accurate release. Coils are the analogue of a surgical arterial ligation, because they produce mechanical occlusion due to their positioning in the vascular lumen. This decreases blood flow while their synthetic fibers have an additional thrombogenic effect. Case: We present four cases of coil embolization treatment of gastric varicose veins at our institution. All procedures were successful and had good technical results. We also present a review of the literature.

Heterotopia de mucosa gástrica en el intestino delgado, hallazgo en videocápsula endoscópica. Reporte de caso / An endoscopic videocapsule finding of heterotopia of the gastric mucosa of the small intestine

Resumen Introducción: la heterotopia de mucosa gástrica se refiere a la localización ectópica de mucosa gástrica en cualquier parte del tracto gastrointestinal. Es una causa poco frecuente de úlceras gastrointestinales y sangrado digestivo oculto. La videocápsula endoscópica se ha convertido en una herramienta fundamental para el estudio del intestino delgado. Métodos: estudio descriptivo de reporte de caso. La información de la historia clínica, reporte de patología y estudios endoscópicos, se extrajo de las bases de datos de la Fundación Valle del Lili. Resultados: paciente masculino de 71 años, en quien se realizó videocápsula endoscópica por un sangrado digestivo oculto y se encontraron segmentos de estenosis y úlceras en el yeyuno. La histopatología reveló la presencia de mucosa gástrica heterotópica. Conclusión: la heterotopia de mucosa gástrica debe considerarse como una causa posible de sangrado del intestino delgado.

Abstract Introduction: Heterotopia of the gastric mucosa refers to an ectopic location of gastric mucosa in any part of the gastrointestinal tract. It is a rare cause of gastrointestinal ulcers and occult digestive bleeding. Endoscopic videocapsules have become fundamental tools for study of the small intestine. Methods: This is a descriptive case study based on information from the medical history, pathology report and endoscopic studies extracted from the databases of the Fundación Valle del Lili in Cali, Colombia. Results: An endoscopic videocapsule was used to examine a 71-year-old male patient who suffered from occult digestive bleeding. Segments of stenosis and ulcers were found in the jejunum and histopathology revealed heterotopic gastric mucosa. Conclusion: Heterotopy of the gastric mucosa should be thought of as a possible cause of bleeding in the small intestine.

Experiencia con videocápsula endoscópica en el estudio y diagnóstico de enfermedades del intestino delgado en un hospital de alta complejidad en Medellín, Colombia / Experience with video capsule endoscopy (VCE) in the study and diagnosis of small bowel diseases in a tertiary hospital in Medellín, Colombia

Resumen Introducción: el intestino delgado (ID) es un órgano difícil de estudiar debido a su gran tamaño y ubicación anatómica; los estudios endoscópicos convencionales (esofagogastroduodenoscopia y colonoscopia) no logran evaluarlo en su totalidad y la enteroscopia con balón es más invasiva, con mayores efectos adversos y tasas de complicaciones. La videocápsula endoscópica (VCE) es una tecnología mínimamente invasiva que permite visualizar de forma dinámica y completa la mucosa del ID; es el método directo más seguro y con menos tasas de complicaciones. Metodología: se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, para describir la experiencia clínica en la utilización de la VCE en un hospital de alta complejidad en Medellín, Colombia; asimismo, determinar las indicaciones, síntomas más comunes y hallazgos anormales. Resultados: se realizaron 374 VCE en el período de estudio: 282 ambulatorias (75,4 %) y 92 hospitalizados (24,6 %). En ambos grupos la indicación más frecuente fue sangrado digestivo oscuro (38,65 % y 53,26 %, respectivamente), seguidos por anemia crónica en el 27,65 % de ambulatorios y por enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII) en 21,74 % de los hospitalizados. Los hallazgos anormales fueron más frecuentes en el yeyuno y las lesiones más comunes fueron angiodisplasias y lesiones inflamatorias. Conclusiones: en las indicaciones más frecuentes (sangrado digestivo oscuro y anemia) se documentaron potenciales fuentes de sangrado en más del 70 % de los casos; siendo las lesiones vasculares e inflamatorias los hallazgos más comunes. En seguimiento o evaluación de EII se documentaron en más del 50 % lesiones inflamatorias. La VCE es muy segura, no se presentó ninguna complicación relacionada con la VCE.

Abstract Introduction: The small intestine is a difficult organ to study due to its large size and anatomical location. Conventional esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy cannot evaluate the entirety of the small intestine and balloon enteroscopy is more invasive, has more adverse effects, and has higher complication rates. Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is a minimally invasive technology that allows a dynamic and complete view of the mucosa of the small intestine. It is the safest direct method which has the lowest complication rates. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional descriptive observational study that describes clinical experience in the use of VCE at a highly complex hospital in Medellin, Colombia. It also describes the indications for VCE, and the most common symptoms and abnormal findings. Results: VCE was used to study 282 outpatients (75.4%) and 92 hospitalized patients (24.6%) during the study period. In both groups, the most frequent indication was obscure digestive bleeding (38.65% and 53.26% respectively), followed by chronic anemia in 27.65% of outpatients, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in 21.74% of hospitalized patients. Abnormal findings were more frequent in the jejunum, and the most common lesions were angiodysplasias and inflammatory lesions. Conclusions: Potential sources of bleeding were documented in more than 70% of the cases of the most frequent indications which were obscure digestive bleeding and anemia. Vascular and inflammatory lesions were the most common findings. In follow-up evaluation of IBD, inflammatory lesions were documented in more than 50% of the cases. VCE is very safe, and there were no complications related to the VCE.