Active Gastrointestinal Bleeding Research Articles

Extravasated contrast volumetric assessment on computed tomography angiography in gastrointestinal bleeding: A useful predictor of positive angiographic findings

BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition, especially in cases of delayed treatment. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) plays a pivotal role in the early identification of upper and lower GIB and in the prompt treatment of the haemorrhage. AIM To determine whether a volumetric estimation of the extravasated contrast at CTA in GIB may be a predictor of subsequent positive angiographic findings. METHODS In this retrospective single-centre study, 35 patients (22 men; median age 69 years; range 16-92 years) admitted to our institution for active GIB detected at CTA and further submitted to catheter angiography between January 2018 and February 2022 were enrolled. Twenty-three (65.7%) patients underwent endoscopy before CTA. Bleeding volumetry was evaluated in both arterial and venous phases via a semi-automated dedicated software. Bleeding rate was obtained from volume change between the two phases and standardised for unit time. Patients were divided into two groups, according to the angiographic signs and their concordance with CTA. RESULTS Upper bleeding accounted for 42.9% and lower GIB for 57.1%. Mean haemoglobin value at the admission was 7.7 g/dL. A concordance between positive CTA and direct angiographic bleeding signs was found in 19 (54.3%) cases. Despite no significant differences in terms of bleeding volume in the arterial phase (0.55 mL vs 0.33 mL, P = 0.35), a statistically significant volume increase in the venous phase was identified in the group of patients with positive angiography (2.06 mL vs 0.9 mL, P = 0.02). In the latter patient group, a significant increase in bleeding rate was also detected (2.18 mL/min vs 0.19 mL/min, P = 0.02). CONCLUSION In GIB of any origin, extravasated contrast volumetric analysis at CTA could be a predictor of positive angiography and may help in avoiding further unnecessary procedures.

Hyperuricemia and intravenous fat emulsion are risk factors for gout flares during active gastrointestinal bleeding: a case control study

ObjectiveIt is well-established that patients with a history of gout are more susceptible to experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding. Gout flare during active gastrointestinal bleeding poses a significant challenge due to the gastrointestinal side effects of anti-inflammatory therapy. This study sought to investigate the risk factors associated with gout flares during episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective observational study involving 94 patients who experienced active gastrointestinal bleeding and had a history of gout. This study was conducted at Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital from January 2019 to October 2022. We collected and recorded demographic information and clinical characteristics.ResultsAmong the gout flare patients, hyperuricemia and intravenous fat emulsion therapy were more prevalent compared to those who remained stable (81.6% vs. 57.8% and 46.9% vs. 24.4%, p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that both hyperuricemia (odds ratio 2.741, 95% CI 1.014–7.413, p = 0.047) and intravenous fat emulsion therapy (odds ratio 2.645, 95% CI 1.046–6.686, p = 0.040) were independent predictors of gout flares. Furthermore, gout attacks occurred sooner in patients receiving intravenous fat emulsion therapy compared to those not receiving it (median: 4 days (interquartile range: 2) vs. median: 5 days (interquartile range: 2.25), p = 0.049).ConclusionOur study revealed a high incidence of gout flares during episodes of active gastrointestinal bleeding, with patients undergoing intravenous fat emulsion therapy and those with hyperuricemia being at increased risk.

Clinical, endoscopic and therapeutic features of bleeding Dieulafoy’s lesions: case series and literature review

ObjectiveDieulafoy’s lesions (DLs) are a rare but potentially life-threatening source of gastrointestinal (GI) haemorrhage. They are responsible for roughly 1%–6.5% of all cases of acute non-variceal GI bleeding.Here, we describe...

Optimizing antithrombotic therapy in patients with coexisting cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disease.

Balancing the safety and efficacy of antithrombotic agents in patients with gastrointestinal disorders is challenging because of the potential for interference with the absorption of antithrombotic drugs and for an increased risk of bleeding. In this Review, we address considerations for enteral antithrombotic therapy in patients with cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal comorbidities. For those with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB), we summarize a general scheme for risk stratification and clinical evidence on risk reduction approaches, such as limiting the use of concomitant medications that increase the risk of GIB and the potential utility of gastrointestinal protection strategies (such as proton pump inhibitors or histamine type 2 receptor antagonists). Furthermore, we summarize the best available evidence and potential gaps in our knowledge on tailoring antithrombotic therapy in patients with active or recent GIB and in those at high risk of GIB but without active or recent GIB. Finally, we review the recommendations provided by major medical societies, highlighting the crucial role of teamwork and multidisciplinary discussions to customize the antithrombotic regimen in patients with coexisting cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases.

Artificial intelligence in capsule endoscopy: development status and future expectations

In this review, we aim to illustrate the state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the field of capsule endoscopy. AI has made significant strides in gastrointestinal imaging, particularly in capsule endoscopy - a non-invasive procedure for capturing gastrointestinal tract images. However, manual analysis of capsule endoscopy videos is labour-intensive and error-prone, prompting the development of automated computational algorithms and AI models. While currently serving as a supplementary observer, AI has the capacity to evolve into an autonomous, integrated reading system, potentially significantly reducing capsule reading time while surpassing human accuracy. We searched Embase, Pubmed, Medline, and Cochrane databases from inception to 06 Jul 2023 for studies investigating the use of AI for capsule endoscopy and screened retrieved records for eligibility. Quantitative and qualitative data were extracted and synthesised to identify current themes. In the search, 824 articles were collected, and 291 duplicates and 31 abstracts were deleted. After a double-screening process and full-text review, 106 publications were included in the review. Themes pertaining to AI for capsule endoscopy included active gastrointestinal bleeding, erosions and ulcers, vascular lesions and angiodysplasias, polyps and tumours, inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, hookworms, bowel prep assessment, and multiple lesion detection. This review provides current insights into the impact of AI on capsule endoscopy as of 2023. AI holds the potential for faster and precise readings and the prospect of autonomous image analysis. However, careful consideration of diagnostic requirements and potential challenges is crucial. The untapped potential within vision transformer technology hints at further evolution and even greater patient benefit.

Novel hemostatic gel used in bleeding esophageal ulcer to promote mucosal healing

Intraprocedural bleeding during endoscopic intervention, gastrointestinal bleeding, or bleeding tumors can be treated with many different modalities such as heat therapy, endoclipping, or embolization. One alternative option that has been proven in literature to be safe and effective is PuraStat, which is a novel self-assembling peptide used for hemostasis during endoscopic procedures such as polypectomies, submucosal dissection, and mucosal resection. This matrix-forming gel can be easily and safely applied to prevent delayed bleeding, accomplish hemostasis and effectively promote mucosal healing. Our case represents a patient who presented with active upper gastrointestinal bleeding that achieved hemostasis and wound healing with the use of PuraStat.

A modified triplet combination of docetaxel, oxaliplatin, and fluorouracil for gastric cancer (GC) with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) and inoperable malignant bowel obstruction (MBO): A multi-center, non-randomized, three-cohort, phase II trial (Zhen Jing).

TPS426 Background: For GC, PC is ranked as the most common in relapse and the second common in metastasis. MBO is a frequent and preterminal complication of PC, which has been reported to have a poor overall survival (OS) of only 3 months without effective treatment. Medical therapy of gastroenteric drainage and symptomatic drugs is the cornerstone management for MBO, just alleviating symptoms. Interventional therapy and surgery are effective but indicated in limited patients (pts) with strict selection. Chemotherapy is the mainstay treatment for metastatic GC but its role in MBO is poorly defined. Only a few retrospective studies are available, showing conflicting results on obstruction clearance (OC) and OS. Methods: We are conducting the Zhen Jing trial in five Chinese centers to investigate the tolerability and efficacy of a dose-sense regimen of docetaxel, oxaliplatin and fluorouracil in MBO from GC. Cohort A is for pts in first-line setting. Cohort B is for second-line setting. Cohort C is for pts who have failed to two or more regimens. Eligible pts will receive the same experimental regimen every 28 days: docetaxel 25 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 15; oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2 on days 1, 15; fluorouracil 1200 mg/m2 24-hour infusion on days 1, 8, 15. A Simon's two-stage optimal design is applied (table below). The primary endpoint is 60-day OC rate. Secondary endpoints are 30-day OC rate, time to OC, OC duration, safety, overall survival and quality of life. Till July 2023, a total of 34 pts has been enrolled (16 in cohort A, 9 in cohort B, 9 in cohort C). Inclusion Criteria: 18-75 years old; Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≤ 3; adenocarcinoma of stomach or gastroesophageal junction; peritoneal carcinomatosis established by imaging data or pathological evidence; MBO below the Treitz ligament based on clinical grounds or radiological findings; inappropriate for operation judged independently by two surgeons; written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: Treated by a combination regimen containing all the study drugs; allergy to any of the study drugs; HER-2 gene overexpression; high microsatellite instability or mismatch repair deficiency; strangulated obstruction; active gastrointestinal bleeding; uncontrolled active infection; unstable heart diseases; severe lung diseases; central nervous system diseases; concomitant cerebral or meningeal metastasis; surgery or stent are required. Clinical trial information: NCT04840264 . [Table: see text]

Endoscopic and Colonoscopy Investigation in Anemia: Yield of these Procedures in Identifying a Gastrointestinal Cause

Introduction: Anemia is a common laboratory finding among patients and many inpatients are worked up during their hospital stay with either endoscopy and/or colonoscopy. An evidence-based approach is warranted to determine this course of action is likely to affect treatments and outcomes especially in the inpatient population in other types of anemia as well. Methods: In this retrospective analysis, charts were obtained for inpatients that underwent either endoscopy and/or colonoscopy with anemia during the period of over 5 years at a community hospital. These patient records were reviewed, and data was collected into a standardized collection tool for statistical analysis. Bonferroni method was used to correct for multiple testing parameters. Results: Out of 173 total patients, endoscopic/colonoscopy findings were positive in 6/5 with untyped anemia, 34/20 with anemia of chronic disease (ACD), 49/29 with iron deficiency anemia (IDA), and 34/26 with anemia due to other causes (ADOC) respectively. Positive findings in either endoscopy and/or colonoscopy 75.47%, 91.38%, 72.73%, and 100% with a p value of .026. Conclusion: In cases of anemia without signs of active gastrointestinal bleeding, inpatient examination by either endoscopy and/or colonoscopy found a probable cause in most patients irrespective of the type of anemia.

Clinical Predictors of Gastrointestinal Bleeding Source before Computed Tomography Angiography.

Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a commonly encountered medical emergency. In cases of negative endoscopic evaluations, computed tomography angiography (CTA) is usually the next diagnostic step. To date, data regarding positive CTA examinations are lacking. We aimed to assess the clinical and laboratory parameters that predict a positive CTA examination, as demonstrated by the extravasation of contrast material into the bowel lumen. We performed a single-center retrospective study, including all patients who were admitted with GIB and who underwent CTA. Analysis was performed to compare patients' characteristics, and logistic regression was used to explore parameters associated with a positive CTA. We included 154 patients. Of them, 25 patients (16.2%) had active GIB on CTA vs. 129 patients (83.8%) who did not. On univariate analysis, several parameters were positively associated with active GIB, including congestive heart failure (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.04-5.86, p = 0.04), warfarin use (OR 4.76, 95% CI 1.49-15.21, p = 0.008), higher INR (OR 1.33, 1.04-1.69, p = 0.02), and low albumin level (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.17-0.79, p = 0.01). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, only high INR (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.02-1.76, p = 0.03) and low albumin (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.12-0.7, p = 0.005) kept their positive association with active bleeding, while a high ASA score was negatively associated with an active GIB. We could identify high INR and low albumin as strong predictors of active GIB, as demonstrated by positive CTA. On the other hand, comorbid patients classified by a high ASA score did not experience a higher rate of active GIB.

The Efficacy of Metoclopramide for Gastric Visualization by Endoscopy in Patients With Active Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

The 2021 American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines suggested using of intravenous erythromycin before endoscopy in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) to enhance endoscopic view and reduce the need for repeat endoscopy. Evidence on intravenous metoclopramide, which is more accessible, is scant, especially in patients with active UGIB. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of metoclopramide for gastric visualization in patients with active UGIB. Between April 10, 2021, and October 8, 2022, this double-blind, double-center randomized controlled trial enrolled patients with active UGIB (hematemesis or presence of fresh blood in the nasogastric tube). The eligible patients were randomly assigned in a concealed 1:1 allocation to metoclopramide or placebo. The primary outcome was adequate visualization by objective endoscopic visualized gastroduodenal scores (EVS). Secondary outcomes included mean difference in EVS, duration of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), immediate hemostasis, need for a second look EGD, units of blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, and 30-day rebleeding rate. Of the 68 eligible patients, 3 of each group were excluded by protocol violation. Finally, 62 patients (31 metoclopramide and 31 placebo) were analyzed. The percentage of patients with adequate visualization in metoclopramide and placebo group was 77.4% and 61.6% (odds ratio [OR] 2.16 [0.71-6.58], P = 0.16). The need for a second look EGD in the 72 hours was lower in the metoclopramide group (3.2% vs 22.6%, OR 0.11 [0.01-0.99], P = 0.02), whereas the other secondary outcomes were not different. However, in gastric lesions subgroup analysis, metoclopramide improved the adequate visualization rate (92.9% vs 50%, OR 13 [1.32-128.10], P = 0.03) and mean EVS at fundus (1.79 ± 0.42 vs 1.29 ± 0.72; P = 0.03). Metoclopramide did not improve endoscopic visualization but decreased the need for second look EGD in patients with overall active UGIB. It improved gastric visualization in those with UGIB due to gastric lesions, primarily by improving visualization in the fundus ( ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT04771481).

The Role of Endoscopy in Investigating the Causes of Persistent Anaemia in Post-operative Fractured Neck of Femur Patients.

Introduction Post-operative anaemia in hip fracture patients has been associated with increased risk of blood transfusion, poorer functional outcomes, increased morbidity and mortality. Patients with persisting drop in haemoglobin after fractured neck of femur with no obvious source of blood loss are often referred for endoscopy to find the cause of anaemia. The reported incidence of perioperative acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding varies from 1 to 15%. Objective The aim of our study is to find out the usefulness of endoscopy in finding gastrointestinal causes leading to the occult loss of blood causing irreversible anaemia in post-operative neck of femur fractures. Material and methods The orthogeriatric unit conducted a study using retrospective dataon neck of femur fracture patients from January 2015 to December 2020. Out of 1863 cases, 918 (49.3%) developed post-operative anaemia. Forty-five patients (5%) with refractory anaemia underwent endoscopy referral. Patient demographics, fracture patterns, pre-existing anaemia, and co-morbidities (anaemia, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, oral anticoagulant usage) were recorded. The recorded information also included the type of procedure undergone by each patient. Intra-operative tranexamic acid injections were administered to all patients. Results Male patients accounted for 24% (11) and females for 76% (34). The average age was 82.3 years (range: 73-94). In terms of fracture type, 60% (27) were intracapsular and 40% (18) were extracapsular. Iron deficiency anaemia was present in 24% (11), oral anticoagulants in 20% (9), and systemic malignancy in 12% (6) of patients. The mean post-operative hemoglobin level during endoscopy referral was 7.3 g/dL. Endoscopy revealed normal findings in 60% (27), esophagitis/gastritis in 20% (8), and hiatus hernia in 16% (7) of patients. No patients were diagnosed with active gastrointestinal bleeding or malignancy as the cause of post-operative hemoglobin drop. Conclusion The study did not show evidence of any gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with resistant and refractory post-operative anaemia following fractured neck of femur surgery using endoscopy procedure.The value of such difficult, expensive and time-consuming procedure may be reviewed further.

A case report of systemic lupus erythematosus and intestinal tuberculosis with lower gastrointestinal bleeding: A treatment approach utilizing parenteral nutrition.

Limited literatures are available on lower gastrointestinal bleeding in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) combined with intestinal tuberculosis. Sharing the treatment experiences of a 26-year-old female patient diagnosed with this complex condition in this report may contribute valuable insights. The patient initially presented with abdominal pain and active gastrointestinal bleeding, leading to admission to the hospital. Over a 2-week period, she experienced persistent bleeding, with daily volumes ranging from 300 mL to 800 mL. Lower gastrointestinal bleeding was diagnosed in this patient with concurrent systemic lupus erythematosus and intestinal tuberculosis. As her symptoms rapidly progressed, food and water intake had to be completely restricted. The parenteral nutrition was implemented. The medical team effectively controlled the bleeding, leading to a notable improvement in the patient's condition. Consequently, she was able to resume oral intake and was discharged from the hospital. This case highlights the significance of using parenteral nutrition in the management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with concurrent systemic lupus erythematosus and intestinal tuberculosis. Close monitoring and collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals are crucial to achieve successful outcomes in similar cases.

Endoscopic Evaluation among Patients Presenting with Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Bleeding

Background: Bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract is a critical medical condition that requires prompt diagnosis and management. Endoscopic evaluation plays a pivotal role in identifying the source of bleeding, determining its severity, and guiding appropriate interventions. Objective: The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive endoscopic evaluation in patients who have presented with bleeding originating from the upper gastrointestinal tract. Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study. Settings: Department of Gastroenterology, Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi Pakistan. Duration: Study duration was 7 months from November 2021 to April 2022. Methods: Patients who were 18 years of age or older and presented with active or recent upper gastrointestinal bleeding, regardless of gender, and were scheduled for endoscopic examination, were incorporated into the study. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopies were performed. The procedure was involving the direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using an endoscope. Any visible lesions or bleeding sources were documented. Data regarding the location and nature of bleeding sources and the endoscopic diagnosis were recorded in a standardized data collection form and analyzed by SPSS version 26. Results: The study included 59 patients with a mean age of 52.27 years. Esophageal endoscopic findings revealed "Grade I to III Esophageal varices (EV) being less common (3.4%, 11.9%, and 13.6% respectively). LAX LEs, esophagitis and Hiatus hernia were observed in 10.2%, 3.4%, and 6.8% of cases. Rarer findings, including Venules, Ecstatic vein, Candidiasis, and various combinations, each accounted for 1.7% of cases. Portal hypertension gastropathy was the most prevalent condition (20.3%), followed by Antral gastritis (45.8%), Erosive gastropathy (10.2%), and other less frequent conditions, such as fundal varices, GOVI varices, diffuse gastritis and Ulcer. Grade II and III EV, and PHTN gastropathy, were significantly more prevalent among males, while Antral gastritis was notably higher among females (p &lt; 0.05). Although the endoscopic findings did not show any statistically significant differences based on gender (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: PHTN gastropathy, antral gastritis, grade III EV and erosive gastropathy were the most common conditions among patients with Hematemesis, along with less frequent findings like grade I to III Esophageal varices, Venules, Ecstatic vein, Candidiasis, and combinations of these conditions.

Bipolar haemostatic forceps versus standard therapy by haemoclip + / − epinephrine injection as initial endoscopic treatment in active non-variceal upper GI bleeding: study protocol for a prospective, randomized multicentre trial (BeBop-Trial)

BackgroundPatients with active nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) usually require urgent endoscopic treatment. Standard therapy (ST) using haemoclip + / − epinephrine injection is not always successful. Bipolar haemostatic forceps (HemoStat/Pentax®) are an approved medical device for the treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding. However, their use as a primary endoscopic treatment for active NVUGIB has not yet been proven in a randomized prospective study.MethodsThis is a prospective, randomized, multicentre superiority trial (n ≥ 5). Patients with active NVUGIB will be randomized (1:1) to ST and to experimental therapy (ET) by application of bipolar haemostatic forceps.In the case of failed initial treatment within 15 min, crossover treatment will be attempted first. Rescue treatment (e.g. via over-the-scope-clip) will then be allowed after 30 min. All patients will also receive standard therapy with proton pump inhibitors. Forty-five patients per treatment arm are required to demonstrate an absolute difference of 25.4% with a power of 80% and a significance level of 0.05.DiscussionThe hypothesis of the study is that bipolar haemostatic forceps are superior to ST in terms of successful primary haemostasis and the absence of recurrent bleeding within 30 days (combined endpoint). The 1:1 randomization is also ethically justifiable for this study, as both procedures are approved for the intervention in question. To further increase the safety of the patients in the study, crossover treatment and rescue treatment are planned. The prospective design seems feasible in a reasonable time frame (recruitment period of 12 months), as nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding is common. Anticoagulants and/or antiplatelet drugs could be an important confounding factor in the statistical analysis that needs to be taken into account and calculated if necessary. In conclusion, this randomized, prospective, multicentre study could make an important contribution to answering the question of whether bipolar haemostatic forceps could be the first-line therapy in the endoscopic treatment of stage Forrest I a + b NVUGIB.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05353062. Registered on April 30 2022.

Colonoscopic and Clinical Features of Colonic Angiodysplasia: A Study in 54 Patients.

Colonic angiodysplasia is a rare disease, it is nevertheless a common cause of lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in older adults. The study summarized the colonoscopic and clinical features of colonic angiodysplasia to raise awareness among endoscopists regarding this disease. We performed a retrospective study of enrolled patients diagnosed with colonic angiodysplasia between September 2013 and April 2022. Clinical and colonoscopic features of the patients with active bleeding were analyzed and compared with those of patients without bleeding. The comparisons were also conducted between the patients with active lower GI bleeding caused by colonic angiodysplasia and those by other diseases. In total, 54 eligible patients were included in this study; 55.55% of the participants were aged over 60 years. Ten patients (3 men and 7 women) with colonic angiodysplasia suffered from active lower GI bleeding, which was mainly located in the left and total colon. The patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, radiotherapy history, antiplatelet drug use, and multiple lesions were more likely to endure lower GI bleeding. The duration between bleeding and admission was longer in the colonic angiodysplasia group than in the other diseases group (P = 0.043). In the colonic angiodysplasia group, bleeding relapsed in 3 patients, and the recurrence rate was higher than in the other diseases group (P < 0.001). Endoscopists should perform colonoscopy scrupulously and consider colonic angiodysplasia as a differential diagnosis in patients with lower GI bleeding, especially for older women and adults with chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Haematological risk factors predicting clinical success in transarterial embolisation for acute gastrointestinal bleeding.

Evaluate clinical outcomes in transarterial embolisation (TAE) for acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) and determine risk factors for 30-day reintervention for rebleeding and mortality. TAE cases were retrospectively reviewed between March 2010 and September 2020 at our tertiary centre. Technical success (angiographic haemostasis following embolisation) was measured. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to identify risk factors for clinical success (absence of 30-day reintervention or mortality) following embolisation for active GIB or empirical embolisation for suspected bleeding. TAE was conducted in 139 patients (92 (66.2%) male; median age:73, range: 20-95 years) for acute upper GIB (n = 88) and lower GIB (n = 51). TAE was technically successful in 85/90 (94.4%) and clinically successful in 99/139 (71.2%); with 12 (8.6%) reintervention cases for rebleeding (median interval 2 days) and 31 (22.3%) cases of mortality (median interval 6 days). Reintervention for rebleeding was associated with haemoglobin drop > 40 g l-1 from baseline based on univariate analysis (p = 0.047). 30-day mortality was associated with pre-intervention platelet count < 150×109 l-1 (p < 0.001, OR 7.35, 95% CI 3.05-17.71) and INR > 1.4 (p < 0.001, OR 4.75, 95% CI 2.03-11.09) on multivariate logistic regression analysis. No associations were found for patient age, gender, antiplatelet/anticoagulation prior to TAE, or when comparing upper and lower GIB with 30-day mortality. TAE had excellent technical success for GIB with relatively high (1-in-5) 30-day mortality. INR > 1.4 and platelet count < 150×109 l-1 were individually associated with TAE 30-day mortality, and pre-TAE > 40 g l-1 haemoglobin decline with rebleeding requiring reintervention. Recognition and timely reversal of haematological risk factors may improve TAE periprocedural clinical outcomes.

An open-label, multi-center phase IIIb study of durvalumab and tremelimumab as first-line treatment in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (TREMENDOUS study).

TPS628 Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is of high incidence and mortality rate in China, with nearly half of them are diagnosed as advanced or metastatic stage at the initial diagnosis. First-line treatment options for patients with advanced disease previously included tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors in combination with vascular endothelial growth factor. Recently, the phase III HIMALAYA trial investigated the STRIDE regimen, tremelimumab 300mg × 1 dose and durvalumab 1500mg every 4 weeks, compared to sorafenib in previously untreated locally advanced or metastatic HCC patients, and resulted in significantly improved overall survival (OS) (16.4 mos vs 13.8mos, HR=0.78) and a well-tolerated safety profile (≥grade 3 treatment-related adverse events 25.8% vs 36.9% ). Notably, the HIMALAYA trial did not enroll subject from mainland China and excluded patients with class Child-Pugh B liver dysfunction or ECOG performance status (PS) 2. We hypothesize the STRIDE regimen will be safe and well tolerated in Chinese patients with locally advanced or metastatic HCC with Child-Pugh class A or B liver dysfunction or ECOG PS 0-2. In addition, the study will also assess efficacy and explore biomarkers. Methods: This will be an open label, multi-center phase IIIb study investigating the safety and efficacy of the STRIDE regimen in Chinese unresectable HCC patients without prior systemic therapy. Patients with Child-Pugh A liver dysfunction and ECOG PS 0-1 will be enrolled in cohort 1, while patients with Child-Pugh B liver dysfunction or ECOG PS 2 will be enrolled in cohort 2. Patients with main portal vein tumor thrombosis (Vp4), clinically significant ascites or hepatic encephalopathy, or active or prior documented gastrointestinal bleeding within 12 months will be excluded. We plan to enroll 300 patients with the primary endpoint of grade 3-5 adverse event (AE) rate by CTCAE v5.0 and adverse events of special interest (AESI). Secondary endpoints include objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression free survival (PFS), OS, OS rate at 6 months and 12 months. Patients of both cohorts will receive a single dose of tremelimumab 300 mg and durvalumab 1500 mg at Cycle 1 (Week 0), followed by durvalumab 1500 mg monotherapy every 4 weeks until confirmed disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Archival or fresh tumor biopsy will be required at baseline. The trial is currently screening eligible subjects. Clinical trial information: CTR20222433 .

Importance of communication of CT indication for imaging yield in patients with gastrointestinal bleed

PurposeThe indications for requesting a diagnostic test are important for the selection and timing of imaging protocols. We sought to evaluate the diagnostic yield and impact on patient disposition when evaluating computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis in adult patients presenting with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) to the Emergency Department (ED). MethodsThis study was an observational cohort study of consecutive adult ED patients with ICD10 codes related to GIB between 5/5/2018 and 6/1/2020. CT reports were reviewed for indications, exam type and findings. Reports were classified as positive (active bleeding, recent bleeding or suspected etiology for GIB), negative or other significant findings. Methodological guidelines for reporting observational studies were followed (STROBE). ResultsAmong 943 patients with GIB during the study period, 33% (n = 312) had an abdominopelvic CT ordered. Most CTs included contrast, 64.1% (n = 200) used a single portal venous phase and 28.9% (n = 90) were multi-phase. CT identified active bleeding in 4.2% (n = 13/312) and intraluminal blood in 2.9% (n = 9/312) patients. Patients that had GIB indications on the CT order (n = 142) were more likely to receive a multiphase study compared to those without GIB indication (n = 94) (43.0% vs. 8.5%, difference 34.5%, 95% CI 23.7% to 43.7%, p < 0.0001). Patients that received multiphase studies were more likely to have a source of GIB identified compared to single-phase (18.9% vs 1.5%, OR 15.3, 95% CI 4.4 to 53.7, p < 0.0001). In 40.3% (n = 117/290) of patients without bleeding, an intra-abdominal cause for their symptoms was identified. Those with GIB or with an identified cause were more likely to be admitted. ConclusionsOne-third of patients evaluated in the ED with GIB had a CT ordered. Active GIB was detected more often when multiphase exams were performed. Multiphase exams are done more often if GIB is listed in the CT indication. When a CT is positive, patients are more likely to be admitted or observed. Accurate indications are critical to optimize exam performance.

Risk factors of active upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with COVID-19 infection and the effectiveness of PPI prophylaxis

BackgroundGastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is one of the most impactful complications in patients hospitalized from COVID-19 infection. Limited study has focused on patients with upper GI bleeding (UGIB). This study aimed to identify the risk factors of patients who were hospitalized from COVID-19 infection and developed UGIB as well as the effectiveness of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) prophylaxis in those patients.MethodsThis study was comprised of two phases. The first phase was the retrospective enrollment of patients who were admitted due to COVID-19 infection and developed UGIB between April and August 2021 to evaluate the associated factors of active UGIB. The second phase was a retrospective analysis after PPI prophylaxis protocol from September – October 2021 to assess the benefit of PPI use in those patients.ResultsOf 6,373 patients hospitalized, 43 patients (0.7%) had evidence of UGIB. The majority were male 28 (65.1%) with a mean age of 69.1 ± 11.8 years. Twenty-four of 43 patients (55.8%) needed mechanical ventilation, 35 patients (81.4%) received systemic corticosteroids, and 10 patients (23.3%) were taking anticoagulants for venous thromboembolic prophylaxis. Seven of 43 patients (16%) had active UGIB. There was no significant difference in the number of patients taking antiplatelets, anticoagulants, or steroids and the severity of COVID-19 infection between the two groups. An emergency endoscopy or endoscopic hemostasis were performed in 6/7 (85.7%) patients. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed two significant factors associated with active UGIB including higher of Glasgow-Blatchford score (GBS) per point (OR = 7.89; 95%CI 1.03–72.87; p = 0.04) and an absence of PPI use (OR 4.29; 95%CI 1.04–19.51; p = 0.04). After prescribing PPI as a prophylaxis, there was a slightly lower incidence of UGIB (0.6% vs 0.7%) in addition to an absence of active UGIB (0% vs 16%).ConclusionOur study demonstrated that the absence of PPI and higher GBS were significant risk factors for active UGIB which required therapeutic endoscopy in patients with COVID-19 infection. We suggest that short-term PPI prophylaxis should be prescribed in those patients once they need hospitalization regardless of the severity of COVID-19 infection to minimize the severity of UGIB.

Transarterial Embolization for Active Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Predictors of Early Mortality and Early Rebleeding.

Background: The aim of this study was to determine predictive factors of early mortality and early rebleeding (≤30 days) following transarterial embolization (TAE) for treatment of acute gastrointestinal bleeding. Methods: All consecutive patients admitted for acute gastrointestinal bleeding to the interventional radiology department in a tertiary center between January 2012 and January 2022 were included. Exclusion criteria were patients: (1) aged < 18-year-old, (2) referred to the operation room without TAE, (3) treated for hemobilia, (4) with mesenteric hematoma, (5) lost to follow-up within 30 days after the procedure. We evaluated pre and per-procedure clinical data, biological data, outcomes, and complications. Results: Sixty-eight patients were included: 55 (80.9%) experienced upper gastrointestinal bleeding and 13 (19.1%) lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Median age was 69 (61−74) years. There were 49 (72%) males. Median hemoglobin was 7.25 (6.1−8.3) g/dL. There were 30 (50%) ulcers. Coils were used in 46 (67.6%) procedures. Early mortality was 15 (22.1%) and early rebleeding was 17 (25%). In multivariate analysis, hyperlactatemia (≥2 mmol/L) were predictive of early mortality (≤30 days). A high number of red blood cells units was associated with early rebleeding. Conclusion: This study identified some predictive factors of 30-day mortality and early rebleeding following TAE. This will assist in patient selection and may help improve the management of gastrointestinal bleeding.