Proximal Esophagus Research Articles

Enteroscopy-assisted ERCP in patients with surgically altered anatomy: multicenter prospective registry (SAMISEN-B) using Motorized Spiral Enteroscopy

BACKGROUND & STUDY AIMS: Prospective study of efficacy and safety of Motorized Spiral Enteroscopy (MSE) to perform biliary endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients with surgically altered anatomy at 5 European centers. PATIENTS & METHODS: Consecutive patients with biliary indications for enteroscopy-assisted ERCP. Objectives were technical success, adverse event rate and patient radiation exposure. RESULTS: 89 patients were enrolled, 1 pancreatic indication excluded, all with variations of Billroth II reconstruction (29.5%) or Roux-en-Y reconstruction (70.5%), either with naive papilla (39%) or hepaticojejunostomy (61%). Main indications were anastomotic stricture treatment and/or biliary stone removal. Enteroscopy to reach the bile duct was possible in 65/88 patients (74%), bile duct cannulation in 54/88 (61%) and therapeutic ERCP was technically successful in 48/88 (54%). In Billroth II variations technical success was achieved in 13/26 (50%) compared to 35/62 (57%, p=0.5792 Chi square) in Roux-en-Y reconstructions (including bariatric gastric bypass). ERCP with intact papilla was successful in 17/34 (50%) compared to 31/54 (57%, p=0.4968 Chi square) in hepaticojejunostomy. In July 2023 the study was prematurely terminated since MSE was withdrawn by the manufacturer because of safety issues. Overall, in 12/88 (14%) patients adverse events (AE) were recorded and 6 (7%) were considered serious. Only 1 SAE was attributable to MSE enteroscopy: perforation of the proximal oesophagus during enteroscope insertion. CONCLUSIONS: This prospective multicenter study was prematurely discontinued due to withdrawal of the MSE by the manufacturer because of safety issues. Technical success of MSE-assisted biliary ERCP in different types of surgically altered anatomy was 54%, which was lower than anticipated. There was one oesophageal perforation attributable to the use of MSE. (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05129449)

Clinical study on diverse surgical affections of oesophagus in buffaloes

This Article presents the detailed study of oesophageal affections of buffaloes recorded in the clinic of Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology VCC CVAS, RAJUVAS, Bikaner Rajasthan India. Different clinical symptoms, types of affections, etiology and postoperative complications were recorded, plane and contrast radiographic study was carried out and affections were categorized based on their diagnosis. Complete obstruction was present in the highest number followed by diverticulum. The site of obstruction in most of the animal was distal cervical regional close to the thoracic inlet and impacted plastic and tarpaulin was the most impacted material retrieved in the oesophagotomy procedures. Conservative and surgico-therapeutic treatment was carried out. Rupture of oesophagus was noticed as a consequence of complete obstruction at proximal site in delayed presented cases. Narrowing of oesophagus noticed at mid cervical region because of the fibrosis of the oesophgaus. Dilation of oesophagus was present in consequences of chronic obstruction and chronic history of ailments. Penetrating foreign bodies mostly sharp needles were present at proximal oesophagus. Early presented cases having healthy mucosa showed the successful outcome and chronicity of the condition resultant in complications and poor prognosis.

Correlation of deglutitive striated esophagus motor function and pharyngeal phase swallowing biomechanical events.

The functional relationship of striated esophagus (St.Eso) motor function with pharyngeal deglutitive biomechanical events has not been systematically studied. The aim of this study was to determine the spatio-temporal characteristics of St.Eso function and its correlation with pharyngeal biomechanics and bolus transport. We studied 50 healthy volunteer subjects (age range: 21-82 years, 31 female) by digital videofluoroscopy. All subjects were studied in a seated, upright position. Thirteen of these 50 volunteers also underwent high-resolution manometry (HRM) concurrent with fluoroscopy. We used laryngeal excursion as a surrogate for St.Eso excursion. Median duration of St.Eso excursion was 2.35 [1.93,2.85, 5th and 95th percentile] seconds. Mean maximum extent of St.Eso excursion was 2.84 ± 0.72 cm. We identified four distinct periods in deglutitive St.Eso motor function: P1. Anterosuperior ascent without bolus or peristaltic activity, P2. Non-peristaltic bolus receiving at the apogee of St.Eso excursion concurrent with UES opening and pharyngeal peristalsis P3. Peristaltic bolus transport as St.Eso descends and P4. Continued peristalsis in resting position. 1. St.Eso motor function spans both pharyngeal and esophageal phases of swallowing for receiving and transporting the bolus, 2. Pressure signatures in HRM recordings currently attributed to St.Eso deglutitive motor activity does not represent the entirety of St.Eso peristalsis, only the part that occurs in its resting position. St.Eso peristalsis that occurs during its descent is recorded by pressure sensors initially in the pharynx. This finding needs to be considered when interpreting HRM recordings of the pharynx and proximal esophagus.

Executive Summary of the American Radium Society Appropriate Use Criteria for NSCLC in a Central/Ultracentral Location: Systematic Review and Guidelines

IntroductionDefinitive radiation therapy is considered standard therapy for medically inoperable early-stage NSCLC. Nevertheless, for patients with tumors located near structures such as the proximal tracheobronchial tree, esophagus, heart, spinal cord, and brachial plexus, the optimal management regimen is controversial. The objective was to develop expert multidisciplinary consensus guidelines on managing medically inoperable NSCLC located in a central or ultracentral location relative to critical organs at risk. MethodsCase variants regarding centrally and ultracentrally located lung tumors were developed by the 15-member multidisciplinary American Radium Society (ARS) Thoracic Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) expert panel. A comprehensive review of the English medical literature was performed from January 1 1946 to December 31 2023 to inform consensus guidelines. Modified Delphi methods were used by the panel to evaluate the variants and procedures, with at least three rating points from median defining agreement/consensus. The guideline was then approved by the ARS Executive Committee and released for public comment per established ARS procedures. ResultsThe Thoracic ARS AUC Panel identified 90 relevant references and obtained consensus in all variants. Radiotherapy alone was considered appropriate, with additional immunotherapy to be considered primarily in the clinical trial setting. Hypofractionated radiotherapy in eight to 18 fractions was considered appropriate for ultracentral lesions near the proximal tracheobronchial tree, upper trachea, and esophagus. For other ultracentral lesions near the heart, great vessels, brachial plexus, and spine, or for non-ultracentral but still central lesions, five-fraction stereotactic body radiation therapy was also considered an appropriate option. Intensity-modulated radiotherapy was considered appropriate and three-dimensional–conformal radiotherapy inappropriate for all variants. Other treatment planning techniques to decrease the risk of overdosing critical organs at risk were also considered. ConclusionsThe ARS Thoracic AUC panel has developed multidisciplinary consensus guidelines for various presentations of stage I NSCLC in a central or ultracentral location.

303. VACUUM-STENT TREATMENT FOR TRANSMURAL DEFECTS IN THE UPPER GASTRO-INTESTINAL TRACT: CASE SERIES AND NEW INSIGHTS IN A TERTIARY REFERRAL CENTER

Abstract Background Transmural defects in the upper gastro-intestinal (GI) tract are associated with severe morbidity and mortality. Endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) has recently been established as promising endoscopic treatment option for such defects and is most often applied using endoscopically placed vacuum-sponges. The vacuum-stent is a novel device to apply EVT, combining the advantages of negative pressure wound therapy and an intraluminal stent, allowing for oral intake. Methods The aim of this prospective cohort study is to describe the experiences of, and lessons learned by a tertiary referral center with EVT experience since 2018, regarding the vacuum-stent for transmural defects in the upper GI tract. All patients treated with a vacuum-stent between November 2022 and October 2023 were included. Outcome measures included successful defect closure, reasons of treatment failure, adverse events and strictures. Results 31 patients were included. Baseline characteristics and outcomes are displayed in Table 1. Success rates of combined vacuum-stent and –sponge treatment and vacuum-stent treatment alone were respectively 83% and 78%. In this cohort, some notable reasons of failure were observed: a defect too close to the upper esophageal sphincter (UES), inadequate vacuum on the esophago-jejunal anastomosis, a carcinoma at a persisting perforated ulcer, and adverse events. Two adverse events occurred (6%): two patients developed a secondary defect at the site of the proximal vacuum-stent flange, of whom one had a cervical anastomosis with a narrow proximal esophagus and one Boerhaave syndrome. Three out of four patients with a severe structure had underwent a McKeown esophagectomy. Conclusion The vacuum-stent is a valuable treatment option for AL after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy, Boerhaave syndrome and iatrogenic defects with success rates of 78-83%. Treating cervical anastomotic leaks is not recommended by us, due to the narrow lumen of the proximal esophagus, the proximity of the UES and high risk of severe strictures. Furthermore, caution is recommended in case of a narrow esophagus. In our experience, vacuum-stent and –sponge treatment complement each other and might be indicated in different situations. Sharing experiences on the topic is important to assess the best techniques and indications, to be able to reach the full potential of the vacuum-stent and further increase the success rate.

326. SPONTANEOUS OESOPHAGEAL PERFORATION TREATED WITH OESOPHAGEAL STENT

Abstract We present the case of a 66-year-old male with spontaneous oesophageal perforation treated with oesophageal stenting. This patient reports sudden onset severe anterior chest pain after coughing and haematemesis with a background medical history of Type II DM, ESRF on Haemodialysis, Hypertension, OSA and takes prophylactic Aspirin. Endoscopy reveals multiple areas of oesophageal perforation in the proximal, middle, and distal oesophagus as well as a haematoma extending the entire length of the oesophagus to the COJ. This was treated with insertion of a WallFlex™ Fully Covered Oesophageal Stent as the patient was unsuitable for surgery. The result was re-epithelialisation of the entire oesophagus and complete resolution of the perforation at the mid-oesophagus. Dutch physician Boerhaave first described spontaneous oesophageal perforation in 1724. Commonly, these were treated surgically with associated high morbidity and mortality. Advances in endoscopic and stent technology has given clinicians a greater armamentarium to treat patients especially in the frail end elderly population. These advances include choices such as stent covers, biodegradable and removable stents, and anti-reflux valves. Complications with oesophageal stents such as fistula formation, stent migration and retrosternal pain are often associated with the length of placement. The choice of a fully covered retrievable oesophageal stent in our case provided reconstitution of oesophageal lumen and minimisation of mediastinal sepsis. With the progress in stent technology, we believe there will be greater use of endoscopic oesophageal stenting for oesophageal perforations bridges the gap between operative and non-operative management.

An unusual etiology of Globus pharyngeus – the Killian–Jamieson diverticulum

Mucosal outpouching between the muscles of the pharynx and proximal esophagus are known as pharyngoesophageal diverticula. These are rare acquired causes of dysphagia and globus sensation in the middle aged and elderly. This report is about a gentleman who presented with globus pharyngeus. Globus pharyngeus or feeling of lump in throat is a common presenting complaint. This is usually due to gastroesophageal reflux disease or psychosocial factors including stress in most cases. However, in this case on investigation, he was found to have a symptomatic Killian–Jamieson diverticulum. This is one of the rarer types of cricopharyngeal diverticula and a cause of globus pharyngeus. He was treated surgically by a transcervical stapled diverticulectomy. A cricopharyngeal diverticulum should be thought of in the differential diagnosis of cause of globus pharyngeus.

Novel Robotic Esophagogastric Anastomosis Simulation Model for Skill Development and Training

BackgroundEsophagogastric anastomosis is a critical step of esophagectomy. We aimed to develop a novel robotic esophagectomy simulator with high rates of fidelity and educational value for trainee surgeons to advance these skills in a low-risk setting. MethodsA porcine esophagus-stomach block was secured on a platform resembling the anatomy during an esophagectomy, and a da Vinci Xi (Intuitive Surgical) robotic system was docked above it. Participants completed 5 key steps (creating the gastric conduit, transecting the esophagus, making the gastrotomy and esophagotomy, creating the anastomosis, and sewing the common enterotomy). The model was assessed through surveys under domains of fidelity (surgical field, reality of materials, anatomy, and experience) and value as a training tool on a scale of 1 to 5 (strongly disagree to strongly agree). ResultsOf 14 participants, 8 (57.1%) were women, 9 (64.3%) were integrated cardiothoracic surgery residents, 1 (7.1%) was a thoracic-track resident, and 10 (71.4%) were in postgraduate year 4 or higher. Participants thought most aspects of the model had high fidelity, including the anatomy of conduit (4.8 ± 0.4) and proximal esophagus (4.9 ± 0.4), realism of the stomach (4.9 ± 0.4) and esophagus (4.9 ± 0.4), stapling (4.7 ± 0.6), suturing (4.8 ± 0.4), and tissue handling (4.4 ± 0.6). Participants rated the model highly overall (4.7 ± 0.5) and as a training tool (4.9 ± 0.4), with strong interrater reliability (0.69). ConclusionsThe robotic esophagogastric simulation model demonstrated high fidelity and value as a training tool, suggesting its potential effectiveness for surgeons with limited experience. However, it warrants further refinement to address limitations and to optimize its value as a training tool.

Technique of Colon Interposition for Oesophageal Replacement for Oesophageal Cancer

Nowadays, it is only relatively rare and in selected situations that colonic interposition is chosen rather than the stomach as a reconstructive organ for replacing the oesophagus. The colon is a reliable organ for tubular replacement of the oesophagus when the stomach is not available for reconstruction. Colon interposition is a complex and complicated operation. It requires a specific indication and thorough preoperative preparation. From a technical point of view, colon interposition places high demands on the selection and surgical dissection of the vascular supply to the reconstructed organ. The reconstruction route and elevation of the interposition graft to the proximal oesophagus and the need to create 3 or 4 gastrointestinal anastomoses also place significantly higher demands than reconstruction using a gastric tube. Overall, despite the significant surgery-related morbidity, good functional results and a good quality of life can usually be achieved. The surgical technique applied in our own practice is described in detail. An overview from literature on the results of colonic interposition is given, particularly with regard to surgical complications and quality of life after colon interposition.

Large-Caliber Empiric Esophageal Dilation Results in Sustained Improvement for Selected Patients With Nonobstructive Dysphagia.

Empiric esophageal dilation (EED) remains a controversial practice for managing nonobstructive dysphagia (NOD) secondary to concerns about safety and efficacy. We examine symptom response, presence of tissue disruption, and adverse events (AEs) after EED. We examined large-caliber bougie EED for NOD at 2 tertiary referral centers: retrospectively evaluating for AEs. Esophageal manometry diagnoses were also reviewed. We then prospectively assessed EED's efficacy using the NIH Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System disrupted swallowing questionnaire to assess dysphagia at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months after EED. Treatment success was defined by improvement in patient-reported outcome scores. AE rate for large-caliber dilation in the retrospective cohort of 180 patients undergoing EED for NOD was low (0.5% perforations, managed conservatively). Visible tissue disruption occurred in 18% of patients, with 47% occurring in the proximal esophagus. Obstructive motility disorders were found more frequently in patients with tissue disruption compared with those without (44% vs 14%, P = 0.05). The primary outcome, the mean disrupted swallowing T -score was 60.1 ± 9.1 at baseline, 56.1 ± 9.5 at 1 month ( P = 0.03), 57 ± 9.6 at 3 months ( P = 0.10), and 56 ± 10 at 6 months ( P = 0.02) (higher scores note more symptoms). EED resulted in a significant and durable improvement in dysphagia and specifically solid food dysphagia among patients with tissue disruption. EED is safe in solid food NOD and particularly effective when tissue disruption occurs. EED tissue disruption in NOD does not preclude esophageal dysmotility.

Esophageal Lichen Planus: A Descriptive Multicenter Report.

To better understand the characteristics, treatment approaches, and outcomes of patients with esophageal lichen planus (ELP). ELP is a rare, often unrecognized and misdiagnosed disorder. Data on this unique patient population are currently limited to small, single-center series. A multicenter, retrospective descriptive study was conducted of adults diagnosed with ELP over a 5-year period, between January 1, 2015, and October 10, 2020, from 7 centers across the United States. Seventy-eight patients (average age 65y, 86% female, 90% Caucasian) were included. Over half had at least 1 extraesophageal manifestation. Esophageal strictures (54%) and abnormal mucosa (50%) were frequent endoscopic findings, with the proximal esophagus the most common site of stricture. Approximately 20% had normal endoscopic findings. Topical steroids (64%) and/or proton pump inhibitors (74%) dominated management; endoscopic response favored steroids (43% vs. 29% respectively). Almost half of the patients required switching treatment modalities during the study period. Adjunctive therapies varied significantly between centers. Given its at times subtle clinical and endoscopic signs, a high index of suspicion and biopsy will improve ELP diagnosis, especially in those with extraesophageal manifestations. Effective therapies are lacking and vary significantly. Prospective investigations into optimal treatment regimens are necessary.

Biomechanical increase in cervical esophageal wall tension during peristalsis.

During pharyngeal phase of swallowing, circumferential tension of the cervical esophagus (CTE) increases caused by a biomechanical process of laryngeal elevation pulling the cervical esophagus orad. The esophagus contracts longitudinally during esophageal peristalsis, therefore, we hypothesized that CTE increases during esophageal peristalsis by a biomechanical process. We investigated this hypothesis using 28 decerebrate cats instrumented with electromyographic (EMG) electrodes on the pharynx and esophagus, and esophageal manometry. We recorded CTE, distal esophageal longitudinal tension (DET), and orad laryngeal tension (OLT) using strain gauges. Peristalsis was stimulated by injecting saline into esophagus or nasopharynx. We investigated the effects of transecting the pharyngo-esophageal nerve (PEN), hypoglossal nerve (HG), or administering (10 mg/kg iv) hexamethonium (HEX). We found that the durations of CTE and DET increased and OLT decreased simultaneously during the total extent of esophageal peristalsis. CTE duration was highly correlated with DET but not esophageal EMG or manometry. The peak magnitudes of the DET and CTE were highly correlated. After HEX administration, peristalsis in the distal esophagus did not occur, and the duration of the CTE response decreased. PEN transection blocked the occurrence of cricopharyngeal or cervical esophageal response during peristalsis but had no significant effect on the CTE response. HG transection had no significant effect on CTE. We conclude that there is a significant CTE increase, independent of laryngeal elevation or esophageal muscle contraction, which occurs during esophageal peristalsis. This response is a biomechanical process caused by esophageal shortening that occurs during esophageal longitudinal contraction of esophageal peristalsis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Circumferential tension of cervical esophagus (CTE) increases during esophageal peristalsis. CTE response is correlated with distal longitudinal tension on cervical esophagus during esophageal peristalsis but not laryngeal elevation or esophageal muscle contraction. CTE response is not blocked by transection of motor innervation of laryngeal elevating muscles or proximal esophagus but is temporally reduced after hexamethonium administration. We conclude that the CTE response is a biomechanical effect caused by longitudinal esophageal contraction during esophageal peristalsis.

Noninvasive Bolus Transit Detection in Cervical Esophagus Utilizing Ultrasound Characteristics.

This pilot study aims to identify characteristic A-mode ultrasound features relevant to noninvasive detection of esophageal bolus transit in the proximal esophagus. Ultrasound signals at a lateral neck site were obtained via a single-element ultrasonic transducer with synchronous videofluoroscopic swallowing studies images of swallows of differing viscosities in 21 adult dysphagia outpatients. Characteristic ultrasound features were extracted to differentiate a bolus-filled from a collapsed esophagus. From 21 subjects, 412 swallows exhibited 4 reproducible waveform patterns associated with bolus transit as displayed in a heatmap: (1)Strong Reflectors; (2)Echo Shifts; (3)Distal Acoustic Enhancement; and (4)Speckling: One or more of these features were observed in the swallow series for all 21 subjects. Distinct acoustic waveform features acquired by single-element ultrasonic transducers can identify bolus transit through the cervical esophagus.

Experience in the treatment of long-gap esophageal atresia by intraluminal esophageal stretching elongation.

To summarize the experience with intraluminal esophageal stretching elongation (ILESE) in the successful treatment of long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) at a single center. Clinical data of 68 neonates who underwent LGEA between February 2015 and January 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Four patients died of multiple associated severe malformations and did not undergo ILESE. Esophageal anastomosis was successfully performed in 60 cases (93.75%) and failed in 4 cases (6.25%) treated with ILESE. The ILESE techniques, esophageal reconstruction, results, postoperative complications, and follow-up treatment were analyzed. The beginning time of performing ILESE preoperation was 53.4 ± 39.4 days after birth, and the age of esophageal reconstruction was 122.2 ± 70.3 days after birth in 60 cases. The gap length of proximal and distal esophageal segments which were evaluated the first time at admission was 4.8 ± 1.3 vertebral bodies, whereas the gap before anastomosis was -0.46 ± 0.90 vertebral bodies. Among the patients with esophageal primary-anastomosis, 55 received thoracoscopic surgery, and 5 underwent thoracotomy in the early stage. Of the 60 children with ILESE, 58 underwent end-to-end esophagostomy, of which 17 cases were combined with circular esophagotomy (livaditis), and 2 cases of esophageal lengthening were combined with the reversal of the ligulate loop of the proximal esophagus (flap). Overall, 59 cases were cured (98.3%), and 1 patient died of respiratory failure postoperatively. All patients were followed up for 7-96 months. Postoperative anastomotic leakage occurred in 16 patients (27.6%), all of whom were successfully treated conservatively. Anastomotic stenosis occurred in 49 cases (83.1%), all of which were successfully managed by non-surgical treatment, including 12.7 ± 9.3 times of esophageal balloon dilatation and 2 cases of stent dilatation. Gastroesophageal reflux occurred in 44 patients (74.6%), including associated or acquired esophageal hiatal hernia in 22 patients, and Nissen fundoplication was performed in 17 patients. ILESE is an effective method for prolonging the proximal and distal esophagus of the LGEA to reconstruct esophageal continuity using its esophageal tissue, with an efficacy rate of 93.75%. Postoperative anastomotic stricture and gastroesophageal reflux are common and require long-term, standardized follow-up and treatment.

Proximal esophageal impedance baseline increases the yield of impedance-pH and is associated with response to PPIs in chronic cough patients.

Chronic cough significantly impairs the quality of life. Although various studies focused on MNBI as assessed in the distal esophagus, scarce data are available on the clinical value of proximal measurements. To investigate the role of proximal MNBI in the workup of patients with chronic cough and its ability to predict PPI response. Demographic, clinical, endoscopy findings, impedance-pH and HRM tracings from consecutive cough patients were evaluated. MNBI was calculated at proximal and distal esophagus. One hundred and sixty four patients were included. In addition to traditional variables, when considering also the PSPW index or MNBI at 3 cm or 15 cm, the proportion of patients with pathological impedance-pH monitoring significantly increased. 70/164 patients were responders, while 94 (57.3%) were non-responder to double PPI dose (p < 0.05). Patients with pathologic MNBI at 3 cm and/or 15 cm as well as those with pathologic PSPW index were characterized by a significantly higher proportion of responders than that observed among patients with normal impedance-pH variables (p < 0.001). The proportion of responders with pathological MNBI at 15 cm was significantly higher than the proportion of responders with pathological MNBI at 3 cm (82.8% vs. 64.3%, p < 0.05). At multivariable model, pathological MNBI at both 3 cm and 15 cm as well as PSPW index were associated with PPI responsiveness. The strongest association with PPI response was observed for MNBI at 15 cm. The assessment of MNBI at proximal esophagus increases the diagnostic yield of impedance-pH monitoring and may represent a useful predictor of PPI responsiveness in the cumbersome clinical setting of suspected reflux-related cough.

Technique of Colon Interposition for Oesophageal Replacement for Oesophageal Cancer

Nowadays, it is only relatively rare and in selected situations that colonic interposition is chosen rather than the stomach as a reconstructive organ for replacing the oesophagus. The colon is a reliable organ for tubular replacement of the oesophagus when the stomach is not available for reconstruction. Colon interposition is a complex and complicated operation. It requires a specific indication and thorough preoperative preparation. From a technical point of view, colon interposition places high demands on the selection and surgical dissection of the vascular supply to the reconstructed organ. The reconstruction route and elevation of the interposition graft to the proximal oesophagus and the need to create 3 or 4 gastrointestinal anastomoses also place significantly higher demands than reconstruction using a gastric tube. Overall, despite the significant surgery-related morbidity, good functional results and a good quality of life can usually be achieved. The surgical technique applied in our own practice is described in detail. An overview from literature on the results of colonic interposition is given, particularly with regard to surgical complications and quality of life after colon interposition.

Foreign body in the upper oesophagus - A double scope extraction approach.

Flexible esophagogastroduodenoscopy is the gold standard for removing FB of the upper gastrointestinal tract. However large sharped FB are usually challenging to remove and are the subtype that most often requires surgery. We describe a case of a patient with a dental prothesis impacted in the proximal oesophagus. After a failed conventional approach, we made a successful attempt with two regular scopes with two independent operators.

The utility of balloon-based and standard impedance technology to diagnose esophageal mucosal diseases in children.

Standard impedance catheters and balloon-based mucosal impedance catheters (BBMI) have been used to assess mucosal integrity and diagnose mucosal diseases. The goal of this study was to determine the age-related technical issues associated with mucosal balloon inflation, validate the BBMI measurement against a standard impedance probe, and compare software-generated diagnoses to histologic diagnoses. We prospectively recruited patients undergoing endoscopy, during which patients underwent standard mucosal impedance catheters and BBMI measurements. Measurements were compared to each other, to the histologic diagnoses, and to the number of eosinophils per high power field. We then compared the patients' diagnosis to that assigned by the BBMI software. Sixty-two patients (mean age: 62 ± 62 months) were recruited, including non-GERD (N = 40), GERD (N = 15), and EoE (N = 7) patients. There were significant differences between the impedance values measured by the two technologies at each esophageal height (p < 0.003). There were significant correlations between the mean impedance values taken by the two catheters in the distal (r2 = 0.272, p = 0.04), mid (r2 = 0.371, p < 0.001), and proximal (r2 = 0.259, p = 0.05) esophagus. There were significant differences in BBMI impedance values across diagnoses in the mid and proximal esophagus (p = 0.024 and 0.025, respectively). While not statistically significant (p = 0.061-0.073), the standard catheter showed similar trends by diagnosis. Using the BBMI diagnostic prediction software, 33%-72% of patients were misclassified. While there was significant variability in impedance values between technologies within patients, regional measurements were consistent across catheters. Automated analyses lacked the sensitivity to diagnose inflammatory disorders.

Dose-Volume Predictors of Radiation Pneumonitis After Thoracic Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy

Purpose/Objective(s)Hypofractionated radiation therapy (HFRT) is a common treatment for thoracic tumors, typically delivered as 60 Gy in 15 fractions. We aimed to identify dosimetric risk factors associated with radiation pneumonitis in patients receiving HFRT at 4 Gy per fraction, focusing on lung V20, mean lung dose (MLD), and lung V5 as potential predictors of grade ≥2 pneumonitis. Materials/MethodsAll patients were treated with thoracic HFRT to 60 Gy in 15 fractions or 72 Gy in 18 fractions at a single healthcare system from 2013-2020. Tumors near critical structures (trachea, proximal tracheobronchial tree, esophagus, spinal cord, or heart) were considered central (within 2 cm), while those closer were classified as ultra-central (within 1 cm). The primary endpoint was grade ≥2 pneumonitis. Logistic regression analyses, adjusting for target size and dosimetric variables, were used to establish a dose threshold associated with <20% risk of grade ≥2 pneumonitis. ResultsOver a median 24.3-month follow-up, 18 patients (16.8%) developed grade ≥2 radiation pneumonitis, with no significant difference between the two dose regimens (17.3% vs. 16.3%, p=0.88). Four patients (3.7%) experienced grade ≥3 pneumonitis, including two grade 5 cases. Patients with grade ≥2 pneumonitis had significantly higher lung V20 (mean 23.4% vs. 14.5%, p<0.001), MLD (mean 13.0 Gy vs. 9.5 Gy, p<0.001), and lung V5 (mean 49.6% vs. 40.6%, p=0.01). Dose thresholds for a 20% risk of grade ≥2 pneumonitis were lung V20 <17.7%, MLD <10.6 Gy, and V5 <41.3%. Multivariable analysis revealed a significant association between lung V20 and grade ≥2 pneumonitis (adjusted OR 1.48, p=0.03). ConclusionTo minimize the risk of grade ≥2 radiation pneumonitis when delivering 4 Gy per fraction at either 60 Gy or 72 Gy, it is advisable to maintain lung V20<17.7%. MLD<10.6 Gy and V5<41.3% can also be considered as lower-priority constraints. However, further validation is necessary before incorporating these constraints into clinical practice or trial planning guidelines.

EGS P11 Super-charged colonic interposition after Upper Gastrointestinal tract resections: technical considerations from both benign and malignant cases and review of literature

Abstract Background Oesophageal reconstruction is performed after an oesophagectomy, for either malignant or benign pathology. During reconstruction, variables include choice of conduit, route of reconstruction, and site of anastomosis. The stomach is preferred for neo-oesophageal reconstruction. However, when the stomach is not viable, alternatives including colon, jejunum, skin, or anterolateral thigh (ALT) musculocutaneous flaps are considered. Of these, colon is preferred for its ability to provide long-length grafts and reliable vascular supply. However, complications remain significant problems, including ischaemia at the anastomosis. To address this, 'supercharging’ and ‘super drainage' techniques are used to enhance arterial flow and venous drainage via microvascular anastomosis. Methods Case 1 involves a 61-year-old male who underwent an oesophagectomy for GOJ adenocarcinoma. A year later he developed a strangulated diaphragmatic hernia with an ischaemic gastric conduit, which was replaced with an isoperistaltic colonic interposition using transverse and left colon with super-drainage. 3 years later, the patient presented with pancreatitis, perforated gallbladder, and duodenum. Diffuse ischaemic changes of the interposed colon were recognised. A re-do colonic interposition using right colon with an arterial graft between the right transverse cervical artery and branch of ileal artery and super-drainage via a branch of the ileal and right external jugular veins was created. Results Case 2 involves a 68-year-old female who underwent an elective hiatus hernia repair with Nissen’s fundoplication. She deteriorated shortly post-operatively where re-look surgery found early hernia recurrence causing strangulation of the distal oesophagus and proximal stomach leading to ischaemia, necrosis, and perforation. She underwent a laparotomy and resection of the ischaemic distal oesophagus and proximal stomach, oesophagostomy and feeding jejunostomy. 16 months later, she underwent interposition of the right colon between the proximal oesophagus and remaining stomach. Arterial flow was adequate and supercharging was performed between the left external jugular vein and a branch of the middle colic vein. Conclusions There is limited literature on methods of both supercharging and super-drainage, as well as the optimal choice of organ for neo-oesophageal reconstruction. Currently, no established treatment protocols exist. There is evidence that supercharging and super-drainage are associated with longer operative times. However, benefits include lower leak incidence, shorter duration to oral intake, and reduced length of stay in relation to interposition without supercharge. Associated venous congestion may contribute to anastomotic leak, and may be prevented by super-drainage. Whilst supercharging has been reported worldwide, our case series adds to the UK practice showing it improves patient outcomes in an NHS setting.