Circumferential endoscopic mucosal resection in Barrett's esophagus with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia or mucosal cancer. Preliminary results in 21 patients

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Treatment by endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) has been established for early lesions in Barrett's esophagus. However, the remaining Barrett's esophagus epithelium remains at risk of developing further lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of circumferential endoscopic mucosectomy (circumferential EMR)s in removing not only the index lesion (high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN) or mucosal cancer), but also the remaining Barrett's esophagus epithelium. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 21 patients were included in the study (11 men, 10 women), who had Barrett's esophagus and either HGIN (n = 12) or mucosal cancer (n = 9). Of the patients, 17/21 were at high surgical risk and five had refused surgery. On the basis of preprocedure endosonography their lesions were classified as T1N0 (n = 19) or T0N0 (n = 2). The lesions and the Barrett's esophagus epithelium were removed by polypectomy after submucosal injection of 10-15 ml of saline; a double-channel endoscope was used in 15/21 cases. Circumferential EMR was performed in two sessions, the lesion and the surrounding half of the circumferential Barrett's esophagus mucosa being removed in the first session. In order to prevent the formation of esophageal stenosis, the second half of the Barrett's esophagus mucosa was resected 1 month later. RESULTS: Complications occurred in 4/21 patients (19 %), consisting of bleeding which was successfully managed by endoscopic hemostasis in all cases. No strictures were observed during follow-up (mean duration 18 months) and endoscopic resection was considered complete in 18/21 patients (86 %). For three patients, histological examination showed incomplete removal of tumor: one of these underwent surgery; two received chemoradiotherapy, and showed no evidence of residual tumor at 18 months' and 24 months' follow-up, respectively. Two patients in whom resection was initially classified as complete later presented with local recurrence and were treated again by EMR. Barrett's esophagus mucosa was completely replaced by squamous cell epithelium in 15/20 patients (75 %). CONCLUSIONS: Circumferential EMR is a noninvasive treatment of Barrett's esophagus with HGIN or mucosal cancer, with a low complication rate and good short-term clinical efficacy. Further studies should focus on long-term results and on technical improvements.     

Endoscopic mucosal resection in the esophagus with a new rigid device: an animal study

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS:: There is a growing trend toward the use of minimally invasive endoscopic methods to treat early esophageal cancers. Although there is continuing controversy regarding the management of Barrett's esophagus and the value of surveillance programs continues to be debated, the ultimate goal is to eradicate all of the foci of intestinal metaplasia and hence the risk of developing an adenocarcinoma. A number of ablative techniques have so far been applied, but none has yet been shown to be superior and entirely satisfactory. The present study evaluates the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of a promising new method of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) in a sheep model, based on the use of a modified rigid esophagoscope. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The resectoscope consists of a rigid esophagoscope with a distal transparent window through which the mucosa and part of the submucosa are sucked in and then resected with a wire loop. The sheep model was chosen because of its similarities to human anatomy with regard to the thickness and histological structure of the esophagus. Fifty-five separate hemicircumferential resections and 11 circumferential resections were carried out in 21 and 11 animals, respectively. Mitomycin C, an agent inhibiting fibroblast proliferation, was administered at different time intervals after eight circumferential resections to prevent the development of esophageal strictures. Results : All of the specimens of hemicircumferential resections were obtained as single distinct pieces and were easily examined histologically. The surface of the specimen correlated with the size of the window and ranged from 6 to 12 cm (2). In circumferential resections, the specimens were obtained in two pieces. An accurate resection depth through the submucosa was achieved in 58 of 65 resected specimens. No complications occurred after hemicircumferential resections. Complications after circumferential resections (stenosis or perforation, or both) were minimized after appropriate timing of mitomycin C administration. CONCLUSIONS: This EMR method offers a promising approach in comparison with other options currently available. It appears to be superior in terms of the size of the resected specimen, the precision and regularity of the resection depth, and the accuracy of histological diagnosis with safety margins. Hemicircumferential EMRs have been shown to be safe in the sheep model. This new technique warrants further animal studies before being used for circumferential EMR in humans.     

Piecemeal endoscopic aspiration mucosectomy for large superficial intramucosal tumors of the stomach

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: As endoscopic techniques continue to develop, endoscopic mucosal resection is increasingly being used in the treatment of intramucosal gastric tumors. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of piecemeal endoscopic aspiration mucosectomy for large superficial intramucosal tumors of the stomach. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study group consisted of five consecutive patients with large superficial intramucosal tumors of the stomach, 4 cm or more in diameter. Piecemeal endoscopic aspiration mucosectomy using a cap-fitted panendoscope was carried out. The initial resection was undertaken at the oral side of the lesion. Subsequent resections were carried out along the anal margin of the previous resection site, until the marks around the boundary of the tumor completely disappeared. RESULTS: The shape of the tumors was slightly elevated in four cases and slightly depressed in one. The mean diameter of the tumors was 4.8 cm. The diameters of the resected specimens ranged from approximately 1.0 cm to 2.3 cm. The numbers of piecemeal resection procedures needed per lesion ranged from five to 18 (mean 11). The visual field was well ensured by the cap, and the tumors were macroscopically completely resected without any complications in all patients. The final histological diagnoses in the specimens were adenoma in one case and mucosal carcinoma in adenoma in four. One patient had residual or recurrent tumor, and received full treatment with additional endoscopic procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Piecemeal endoscopic aspiration mucosectomy is a simple and very useful technique for treating large superficial intramucosal tumors of the stomach.     

磁性水凝胶黏膜下注射辅助离体猪食管内镜黏膜下剥离术的可行性研究

目的 探讨基于磁锚定技术的磁性水凝胶辅助内镜黏膜下剥离术（ESD）的可行性。方法 以新鲜离体猪食管为模型，在黏膜下注射自行配置的海藻酸钠-四氧化三铁微粒溶液和交联剂，使两者发生反应形成磁性水凝胶。在食管外放置锚定磁体后，黏膜下的磁性水凝胶被吸引，连同病变黏膜一起被抬起，可辅助完成ESD。结果 在锚定磁体的磁场力作用下，磁性水凝胶被锚定磁体吸引，可充分显露黏膜剥离面术野并形成足够的组织张力，改善术者操作体验，提高整块黏膜切除率。结论 黏膜下注射磁性水凝胶在食管ESD中具有可行性，后续将进一步优化磁性水凝胶性能并进行验证。该技术有望应用于临床。     

射频深部热疗中金属支架对猪食管黏膜的损伤

背景:热疗在食管癌综合治疗中取得了明显的疗效,放置食管金属支架后的食管癌患者,能否进行深部热疗尚不清楚。目的:实验拟观察射频深部热疗中金属支架对猪食管黏膜的损伤程度。设计、时间及地点:观察性实验,于2004-10/2005-01在泸州医学院附属医院肿瘤科完成。材料:取普通肉猪13只,体质量35～40kg。记忆合金带膜食管支架,由常州市智业医疗仪器研究所提供。方法:采用SR-1000射频深部热疗机对放置金属支架的13只猪食管进行体外加热。在金属支架上缘上4cm、支架中心处、支架下缘处、支架下缘下2cm处和支架下缘下4cm处的食管黏膜处分别设置5个观察点。频率40.82MHz,极板25cm×25cm,功率500～700W;加热30min。主要观察指标:肉眼观察5个观察点食管黏膜的损伤情况,并取5个观察点处的食管黏膜作病理学检查。结果:纳入普通肉猪13只,实验过程1只猪死于麻醉,4只猪的测温线出现故障。8只猪进入结果分析。①8只猪40个观察点处的食管黏膜肉眼损伤程度为0～1级,经统计学等级资料的秩和检验H=2.734,各观察点损伤程度相比,差异无显著性意义(P=0.255)。②显微镜下显示食管粘膜损伤程度为0～2级,经统计学等级资料的秩和检验H=2.734,各观察点损伤程度相比,差异无显著性意义(P=0.255)。结论:在射频深部热疗中,食管金属支架置入本身不引起明显的食管黏膜机械性损伤,亦不加重食管黏膜的热损伤,金属内支架置入后行射频深部热疗在近期是安全可行的。     

In vivo endoscopic optical coherence tomography of esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and adenocarcinoma of the esophagus

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: We studied the feasibility of endoscopic optical coherence tomography imaging in esophageal disorders, including Barrett's esophagus and Barrett-related adenocarcinoma. Optical coherence tomography is a high-resolution cross-sectional imaging technique with a resolution of almost 10 microm. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The mucosal architecture of reflux esophagitis (n = 9) and Barrett's esophagus (n = 9) including Barrett-related esophageal cancer (n = 6) was studied by optical coherence tomography imaging. RESULTS: In different stages of reflux esophagitis edema, fibrinoid deposits, or loss of the epithelial layer were observed. Optical coherence tomography images of Barrett's esophagus substantially differed from normal esophagus, reflux esophagitis, and esophageal carcinoma. A stratified structure of the mucosa was still preserved in Barrett's esophagus. However, images of Barrett-related cancer lacked the regular structure of the esophagus. CONCLUSIONS: The high consistency of the first optical coherence tomography findings, the resolution of up to 10 microm, and the distinct pattern of normal, inflammatory, premalignant and malignant tissues make optical coherence tomography a promising method for endoscopically obtained optical biopsy.     

Methylene blue chromoendoscopy for the detection of Barrett's esophagus in a Greek cohort

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Specialized columnar epithelium of Barrett's esophagus is a precursor of dysplasia and adenocarcinoma, and methylene blue selectively stains this type of epithelium. The present prospective study examined the detection of short-segment and long-segment Barrett's esophagus using methylene blue chromoendoscopy-directed biopsies, in comparison with biopsies directed using conventional endoscopic criteria. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Biopsies were obtained from macroscopically conspicous areas in the distal esophagus observed during conventional endoscopy in a total of 975 patients. Immediately after conventional biopsies, the distal esophagus was sprayed with methylene blue and directed biopsies were then obtained from the stained regions. All patients with a histologically established Barrett's esophagus underwent a second upper gastrointestinal endoscopy within 1 year in order to assess the reproducibility of the method. RESULTS: In a total of 3,900 conventional biopsy specimens (without staining), 54 specimens (1.4%) were found to show Barrett's esophagus and were confined to 16 of the 975 patients (1.6%). Of the total 130 directed biopsy specimens obtained during chromoendoscopy, 114 (87.7%) revealed Barrett's esophagus (P<0.00001) and were confined to 35 of the 975 patients (3.5%; P < or = 0.001). The findings were confirmed within 1 year in all dye-positive patients. CONCLUSIONS: Chromoendoscopy with methylene blue appears to be an accurate, simple, safe, inexpensive, and reproducible method of detecting specialized columnar epithelium in Barrett's esophagus.     

Videoendoscopy and histopathology of the esophagogastric junction in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: During endoscopy the stomach is considered to rise at the level of the 'gastric' folds; however, anatomical studies have demonstrated that the proximal gastric folds may in fact be esophageal. This prospective study was designed to assess the histopathology of endoscopically visible proximal gastric folds in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. METHODS: 35 consecutive patients (20 males) with gastroesophageal reflux disease underwent video endoscopy, including biopsy sampling from the endoscopically visible esophagogastric junction (0 cm, 0.5 cm and 1.0 cm distal to the rise of gastric folds and 0.5 cm and 1.0 cm proximal to it). Endoscopy was digitally recorded and reviewed for assignment of biopsy level. Columnar-lined esophagus and esophagitis were cataloged according to the Paull-Chandrasoma histopathologic classification and the Los Angeles endoscopic classification. RESULTS: Endoscopy: Normal endoscopic esophagogastric junction was seen in 11 (31%) patients and visible columnar-lined esophagus < or = 0.5 cm in 24 (69%). Histology: Columnar-lined esophagus extended 1.0 cm in 22.8% of patients and 0.5 cm in 51.4%, distal to the rise of the gastric folds. In all patients columnar-lined esophagus was interposed between squamous epithelium and gastric oxyntic mucosa. Thus, so-called gastric folds contained mucosa of esophageal origin in all patients. Intestinal metaplasia (Barrett esophagus) was detected in eight (22.9%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopy cannot exclude histopathologic columnar-lined esophagus within gastric rugae. Thus, visible 'gastric' folds should not be used for definition of the esophagogastric junction but as a reference landmark for biopsy sampling during endoscopy.     

Biopsy methods and pathology of Barrett's esophagus

We reviewed the definition of the esophagogastric junction and the biopsy sites and histologic findings of biopsy specimens from Barrett's esophagus. The borderline between the esophagus and stomach has been defined as the distal limit of the longitudinal vessels by the Japan Esophageal Society, because the longitudinal vessels are always located within the esophagus. As squamous islands in Barrett's mucosa are usually the orifices of esophageal glands proper, biopsy specimens from the squamous islands show esophageal glands proper or their ducts. The identification of esophageal glands proper is a definite histological indicator that a piece of biopsy tissue is of esophageal origin. Therefore, a diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus can be made purely on the basis of the histologic findings in these biopsy specimens of squamous islands. Since columnar mucosa is usually recognizable at endoscopy, a diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus can be made solely on the basis of endoscopic examination, without any need for histologic confirmation, if squamous islands are recognized in columnar-lined mucosa.     

多环黏膜切除术治疗Barrett食管的临床研究

目的研究内镜下应用多环黏膜切除术（multiband mucosectomy,MBM）治疗Barrett食管。方法采用前瞻性研究的方法,在窄波成像（narrow band imaging,NBI）下确认Barrett食管病变范围,用多环黏膜切除器吸引病灶,套扎橡皮圈后用圈套器电切。3个月复查胃镜,评估疗效。结果134例Barrett食管患者共切除病灶206块。急性并发症出血发生率6.7%（9/134）,无一例发生穿孔。术后30d内（迟发性并发症）出血发生率1.5%（2/134）,出现食管狭窄症状39.8%（53/133）;30d后（远期并发症）主要为食管狭窄,发生率2.3%（3/133）。术后3个月复查胃镜,病灶完整切除率98.5%（131/133）。结论内镜下MBM术治疗Barrett食管,简便、安全、有效。     

Silicone-covered expandable metallic stents in the esophagus: an experimental study.

Modified silicone-covered Gianturco expandable metallic stents were placed in the normal esophagus of six young pigs. Following endoscopic examination, the stents were placed using endoscopic and fluoroscopic control. The animals were observed for eating behavior and weight gain. Stents appeared to be tolerated well based on these parameters. Three stents remained in position for the full study period, and three stents migrated into the stomach during the study. The pigs were sacrificed at four weeks and postmortem examination performed. Esophageal wall thickening and nodular inflammation were noted at the sites where the wire skirts penetrated the mucosa. Injury was limited to the region of the wire skirts and there was no injury due to the radial force of the stent body. There was no free perforation. This preliminary study suggests that endoscopic and fluoroscopic placement of modified silicone-covered Gianturco stents in the esophagus is feasible and safe. More extensive animal studies, followed by clinical investigation for palliation of malignant strictures, are warranted.     

A novel method of virtual histopathology using laser-scanning confocal microscopy in-vitro with untreated fresh specimens from the gastrointestinal mucosa

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Histopathological examination for superficial gastrointestinal lesions has been mainly based upon the light microscopic examination of thin-slice specimens with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. However, it takes at least a couple of days to create a slide-glass for microscopic study. In order to obtain immediate microscopic images for untreated specimens, the authors used laser-scanning confocal microscopy (LCM) to study fresh samples of gastrointestinal mucosa. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fresh untreated mucosal specimens from the esophagus, stomach, and colon, obtained by endoscopic pinch biopsy, polypectomy, or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), were fixed in normal saline and examined by LCM collecting the reflective light of a 488-nm wavelength argon laser beam. Findings from the LCM image were compared with those of conventional H&E staining in all specimens. For objective evaluation of the similarity of both pictures, the nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratio (N/C) of normal mucosa and that of cancer of the esophagus were calculated and statistically analyzed. The overall diagnostic accuracy for cancer was evaluated. RESULTS: The average scanning time to obtain the LCM image of a specimen was 1.6 seconds. The LCM images acquired corresponded well to the conventional H&E light microscopic images in the esophagus, stomach, and colon. Cell wall, nucleus, cytoplasm, and tissue structural elements were simultaneously visualized by LCM scanning. A difference in N/C ratios between normal mucosa and cancer in the esophagus was statistically apparent when Welch's test (P=0.05) was applied. The overall diagnostic accuracy of the LCM study for cancer was 89.7%. CONCLUSIONS: This novel method enables us to obtain an immediate serial virtual microscopic section through a fresh specimen, which has not actually been cut, although the resolution of the image obtained is still limited. These early results encourage us to develop imaging relevant to conventional histopathology alongside the development of LCM technology in the near future. We should aim at the in vivo application of LCM coupled to probes which can be introduced through the working channel of endoscopes.     

Squamous reepithelialization after circumferential endoscopic mucosal resection of superficial carcinoma arising in Barrett's esophagus

Recent reports on the results of endoscopic ablation of Barrett's mucosa have been promising, particularly when total mucosal ablation is coupled with aggressive acid-suppression treatment using high-dose proton-pump inhibitor therapy. There is also a considerable literature on reepithelialization after ablative treatments in Barrett's esophagus. This report describes a case of multifocal superficial adenocarcinoma arising in Barrett's mucosa that was successfully treated with total circumferential endoscopic mucosal resection, with a subsequent follow-up of more than 2 years. This is the first report describing the process of squamous reepithelialization after endoscopic mucosal resection in Barrett's esophagus.     

Optical coherence tomography: advanced technology for the endoscopic imaging of Barrett's esophagus

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Endoscopic optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an emerging medical technology capable of generating high-resolution cross-sectional imaging of tissue microstructure in situ and in real time. We assess the use and feasibility of OCT for real-time screening and diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus, and also review state-of-the-art OCT technology for endoscopic imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: OCT imaging was performed as an adjunct to endoscopic imaging of the human esophagus. Real-time OCT (13-microm resolution) was used to perform image-guided evaluation of normal esophagus and Barrett's esophagus. Beam delivery was accomplished with a 1-mm diameter OCT catheter-probe that can be introduced into the accessory channel of a standard endoscope. Different catheter-probe imaging designs which performed linear and radial scanning were assessed. Novel ultrahigh-resolution (1.1-microm resolution) and spectroscopic OCT techniques were used to image in vitro specimens of Barrett's esophagus. RESULTS: Endoscopic OCT images revealed distinct layers of normal human esophagus extending from the epithelium to the muscularis propria. In contrast, the presence of gland- and crypt-like morphologies and the absence of layered structures were observed in Barrett's esophagus. All OCT images showed strong correlations with architectural morphology in histological findings. Ultrahigh-resolution OCT techniques achieved 1.1-microm image resolution in in vitro specimens and showed enhanced resolution of architectural features. Spectroscopic OCT identified localized regions of wavelength-dependent optical scattering, enhancing the differentiation of Barrett's esophagus. CONCLUSIONS: OCT technology with compact fiberoptic imaging probes can be used as an adjunct to endoscopy for real-time image-guided evaluation of Barrett's esophagus. Linear and radial scan patterns have different advantages and limitations depending upon the application. Ultrahigh-resolution and spectroscopic OCT techniques improve structural tissue recognition and suggest future potential for resolution and contrast enhancements in clinical studies. A new balloon catheter-probe delivery device is proposed for systematic imaging and screening of the esophagus.     

射频深部热疗中金属支架置入法对猪食管黏膜测温影响的探讨

目的 探讨在射频深部热疗中金属支架对猪食管黏膜温度影响的动物实验中支架置入的最佳方式。方法 把4路测温线的测温点分别固定在金属支架中心处、支架下缘处、支架下缘2cm处和支架下缘4cm处。利用徒手置入和引导丝牵拉两种方式使金属支架和4路测温线经过猪胃进入猪食管。采用SR-1000射频深部热疗机对13只猪食管进行体外加热30分钟，同时连续监测4测温点的温度变化情况。结果 5只猪实验失败，1只猪在麻醉时死亡，4只猪在徒手置入支架过程中使测温线出现损伤，测温点的温度数据不准确，2只采用徒手置入和6只采用引导丝牵拉的支架置入方式实验获得成功，在保护测温线免受损伤上，引导丝牵拉方式明显优于徒手置入方式（P〈0．05）。结论 在射频深部热疗中食管金属支架对猪食管黏膜温度影响的实验中采用引导丝牵拉方式能更好地保护测温线。     

Cap polyposis of the colon and rectum: an analysis of endoscopic findings

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: Because of the rarity of cap polyposis of the colon and rectum, the endoscopic features of this condition have not been specified to date. The aim of this study is to characterize the endoscopic features of cap polyposis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The diagnosis of cap polyposis was established by histologic findings in specimens obtained endoscopically or surgically from four patients. Colonoscopic findings in the four patients were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: The endoscopic features were divided into semipedunculated type (three patients) and flat-topped protruding type (one patient). In the semipedunculated type, the polyps were characterized by reddish protrusions of various configurations with eroded surface in the rectosigmoid colon. In the remaining patient, all the lesions were flat protrusions with a reddish central depression. The polyps of both types became smaller in size and fewer in number at the proximal part of the sigmoid colon. Multiple white specks were observed in the intervening mucosa in all four patients. CONCLUSIONS: The prominence of the polyps at the distal part of the colon and rectum and multiple white specks in the intervening mucosa seem to be the additional endoscopic features suggestive of cap polyposis.     

镍钛合金人工食管替代食管后的组织反应与损伤

背景：前期实验证实镍钛合金人工食管是一种可用于替代被切除食管段,重建食管通道的食管人工代用品。目的：观察镍钛合金人工食管替代食管术后的组织反应及对邻近组织器官的损伤。方法：切除8只小型香猪一段70 mm胸段食管,将镍钛合金人工食管两端分别套入远近端正常食管腔内约10 mm,在食管与镍钛合金人工食管涤沦连接环作全层连续缝合吻合连接。术后第7天开始应用饮食调控方法调控脱管时间。分别在术后1,2,3,4个月各处死2只带管实验猪进行解剖,观察植入镍钛合金人工食管在新生食管形成过程中的组织反应和对紧密接触邻近组织器官的损伤。结果与结论：各时间段植入镍钛合金人工食管原位停留支撑,未见胸内出血、气胸、脓胸、食管穿孔、吻合口瘘等术后邻近组织器官损伤并发症。实验动物带管进食半固体食物无进食困难（Bown＇SⅡ级）。解剖所见：壁层胸膜与肺轻度膜状粘连,胸腔内无胸液,新生食管完全包裹人工食管,新生食管与邻近肺、主动脉器官组织轻度膜状粘连,未对邻近肺、主动脉及食管黏膜造成严重损伤,植入周期食管黏膜由食管残端向新生食管中间部再生延伸直到完全覆盖整条新生食管。新生食管组织学所见：镍钛合金人工食管替代食管植入周期的组织反应表现为无菌性炎症反应和异物反应,以术后1个月组织反应最为严重,随后逐渐减轻。     

Intraepithelial high-grade neoplasia and early adenocarcinoma in short-segment Barrett's esophagus (SSBE): curative treatment using local endoscopic treatment techniques

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: In recent years, short-segment Barrett's esophagus (SSBE) has attracted increasing attention in the context of reflux disease. However, there is continuing controversy regarding its potential for malignant transformation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between October 1996 and September 1999, 50/115 patients (43 %) with intraepithelial high-grade neoplasia or early Barrett's adenocarcinoma, who underwent local endoscopic treatment, had developed a malignant lesion in an (SSBE). In the framework of a prospective observational study, 28 patients were treated with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), 13 with photodynamic therapy, and three with argon plasma coagulation; six patients received combinations of these treatments. RESULTS: Complete local remission was achieved in 48/49 patients (98 %). One patient switched to surgery after the first EMR, because there was submucosal tumor infiltration, and in one patient out of 50 local endoscopic treatment failed. A mean of 1.7 +/- 1.4 treatment sessions was required for local endoscopic treatment. The method-associated mortality was 0 %. The rate of relevant complications (stenosis, bleeding) was 6 % (3/50 patients). No cases of severe hemorrhage (Hb fall >2 g/dl) or perforation occurred. During a mean follow-up period of 34 +/- 10 months, metachronous intraepithelial high-grade neoplasms or early adenocarcinomas were seen in 11/48 patients (23 %), who received further successful endoscopic treatment. Four patients died during the follow-up period, but in only one patient was this due to his Barrett's adenocarcinoma (this was the patient who underwent esophageal resection). CONCLUSIONS: The malignant potential of short-segment Barrett's esophagus must not be underestimated. Organ-preserving local endoscopic treatment shows good acute-phase and long-term results. Local endoscopic treatment represents an alternative to esophageal resection in the case of intraepithelial high-grade neoplasia and selected early adenocarcinomas in Barrett's esophagus.     

超声内镜在食管微小平滑肌瘤诊断和治疗中的应用价值

目的：探讨超声内镜在食管微小平滑肌瘤诊断和治疗中的应用价值。方法：对24例临床诊断微小食管平滑肌瘤患者，行超声胃镜检查后分别予高频电切除或外科手术切除，切除组织送组织病理检查．最后对比分析相关资料。结果：24例行超声胃镜检查，显示超声声像以低回声、不均匀回声多见，境界较清楚。12例病变位于黏膜肌层，9例病变位于固有肌层浅层，共21例予高频电切除治疗；3例病变位于固有肌层深层，予外科手术治疗。24例病理检查示平滑肌瘤23例(瘤位于黏膜肌层12例，固有肌层11例)。超声内镜检查诊断准确率95.8％(23/24)。结论：超声胃镜不仅能对食管微小平滑肌瘤作出准确诊断．而且由于其对肿瘤的起源、范围等探查准确，可为后续治疗的选择提供重要的借鉴。     

Unsedated transnasal percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement in selected patients

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: The placement of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the procedure of choice for the long-term management of dysphagic patients with neurological disease or with trauma or tumors of the head and neck. It is not always possible to perform conventional upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in such patients due to stenosis and/or occlusion of the mouth or pharynx and/or partial or complete trismus. The aim of this study was to show whether transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) offers a feasible and effective alternative method for PEG placement in these selected patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: PEG placement was required for 155 patients at our institution during a 27-month period. In 12 patients oral access of an endoscope into the esophagus was not possible. Unsedated transnasal EGD (T-EGD) was then performed using an ultrathin video gastroscope, which had a distal-end diameter of 5.9 mm. A 16-Fr polyurethane PEG tube with a conical, flexible, soft distal end and a collapsible bumper was used in all cases. The Gauderer-Ponsky pull technique was used for PEG placement. RESULTS: T-EGD and perendoscopic transnasal placement of a PEG tube was successfully performed in all 12 patients. No patient required sedation during the procedure. No immediate or late-onset procedure-related complications occurred in any of the 12 patients. CONCLUSIONS: In some dysphagic patients in whom the oral route is not accessible with a standard endoscope, a transnasal endoscopic approach allows the placement of a PEG tube. In these selected patients this technique has been shown to be safe and effective and does not require the use of sedation.