MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy' source. Sat, 10 Oct 2009 19:37:31 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822060&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000485%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Transesophageal ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) enables minimally invasive tissue sampling of mediastinal lymph nodes. There is convincing evidence that EUS-FNA is an accurate method for mediastinal staging of patients with non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and therefore EUS-FNA provides an alternative for surgical evaluation of the mediastinum. Due to the complementary reach in analyzing different mediastinal regions, additional staging by EUS-FNA to mediastinoscopy improves preoperative staging of NSCLC and therefore reduces the number of futile thoracotomies. Preliminary data suggest an important role for EUS-FNA in the assessment of mediastinal tumor invasion as well as mediastinal restaging after prior chemo (radiation) therapy. For interstitial lung diseases, EUS... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822060 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822059&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000345%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Although the exact incidence of nonbronchogenic endobronchial metastatic (EBM) disease is unknown, it appears a rare cause of central airway obstruction. It is likely that nonpulmonary endobronchial metastases are underdiagnosed, as many patients with known or suspected lung parenchymal metastases do not undergo bronchoscopy as part of their clinical evaluation. Colorectal carcinoma, the third most common cancer, remains a predominant cause of nonlung EBM. Other gastrointestinal tumors (gastric, pancreatic, hepatocellular, ampullary, and esophageal carcinoma) are also known to metastasize to the central airways. A high index of suspicion must be maintained for the possibility of EBM in patients with known metastatic disease elsewhere, as the symptoms may be subtle. Bronchoscopy offers the ... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822059 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822058&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000333%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article aims to discuss the benefits derived from using EBUS in the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies. (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822058 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822057&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000369%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Pulmonary complications of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been increasingly recognized and reported in the literature. The complications can involve the lung parenchyma, pleural space, and small or large airways. Although the mechanism of pulmonary involvement in IBD is not clearly understood, there are pathological similarities between the disease seen in the lungs and that in the bowel. Accurate diagnosis involves a combination of patient history, symptom review, thoracic imaging modalities, and bronchoscopic evaluation. We will summarize the various IBD-associated pulmonary complications, and specifically focus on reviewing the airway manifestations that have been reported. Endoscopic management strategies which include rigid or balloon dilatation, laser therapy, electrocautery, ... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822057 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822056&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000357%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The development of trachea- or broncho-esophageal fistulae is a devastating thoracic malignancy complication leading to increased morbidity and mortality due to pneumonia, sepsis, and malnutrition. Due to this high morbidity and mortality, attempts to close or cover the fistula are often undertaken. Multiple modalities have been evaluated and reported to treat malignant aerodigestive fistulae (MAF), although no single approach has become the standard of care. The American College of Chest Physicians recommends palliative stenting for MAF, but this approach may not be effective depending on size, configuration, and position of the fistula. This manuscript will critically evaluate the role of single airway stenting or double airway and esophageal stenting in MAF palliation. We will recommend... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822056 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822055&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000321%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Hepatic hydrothorax (HH) is a troublesome pulmonary complication that can arise in end-stage liver disease patients and can significantly impair patient quality of life and functional ability. The presence of portal hypertension, the accumulation of ascites, and subsequent fluid translocation through diaphragmatic fenestrations underlies this complication. Other pleural effusion etiologies must be excluded to ensure alternative diagnoses are not the pleural effusion source. Once attributed to HH, management and an optimal patient outcome can be difficult to achieve. This review will discuss the current understanding and various approaches to HH management, with a focus on intrathoracic interventions for this vexing clinical problem. (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822055 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822054&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000473%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Pulmonary medicine and Gastroenterology are similar disciplines which involve the study of a specific organ system which can be affected by either disorders unique to that organ system or by systemic diseases that have secondary effects upon the target organs. Both disciplines rely upon a broad knowledge of internal medicine, superb diagnostic instincts, and technical expertise in the performance of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures. Gastrointestinal endoscopy leapfrogged ahead of pulmonary endoscopy in the 1970s, buoyed by the indications for screening sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy and esophagoscopy, as well by the technical advancements in endoscope design and accessories that enabled the development of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as endoscopic retrogr... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822054 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822053&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000527%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822053 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822052&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000515%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822052 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822051&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000503%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822051 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2822050&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000497%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2822050 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2822050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771074&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000461%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The foundation of skills for the performance of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) lies in the training for general surgery (especially laparoscopy) and flexible gastrointestinal endoscopy. Physicians wishing to practice NOTES need to acquire or have both skill sets, or need to partner together to blend complementary capabilities with colleagues. It is anticipated that NOTES, as currently practiced, will be performed in a team approach with surgeons and gastroenterologists participating. In the future, however, a new cadre of NOTES specialists may emerge who will have developed individual expertise in the full spectrum of NOTES knowledge base requirements. In the context of current surgical and gastroenterology training, this means that surgeons must gain mastery in ba... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771074 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771073&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS109628830900045X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In little more than a decade, exploring the abdominal cavity through natural orifices has progressed from a fantastic idea to the first tentative applications in a human series. The next phase should be one of rigorous testing of the feasibility and value of the many proposed innovative techniques and applications. Without such careful evaluation, some procedures may well be applied inappropriately, to the detriment of the patients, and others may never reach their clinical potential. It is essential that the necessary studies should be based soundly on established scientific principles, and be designed and conducted well. Trials of poor quality can be destructive to a field. They can create both inappropriate skepticism and overoptimism, and may complicate recruitment for future or ongoin... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771073 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771072&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS109628830900031X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article will present and discuss the differences of the technique when compared with laparoscopy, the different models of single trocar devices and the literature available on this matter. Authors experience with single incision, multiple trocars and single trocar procedures comes from 21 consecutive single incision, multiple trocars cholecystectomies and 25 single trocar cholecystectomies from 2008 to 2009 (retrospective analysis). Single incision group had 16 female patients within 22 to 58y (M = 42 y), single port group had 19 female patients within 26 to 60 y (M = 44 y). Operative time was 32 to 100 min (M = 59 min) and 32 to 205 min (M = 85.2 min) respectively. Intra-op complication happened as 1 cystic artery bleeding on single access group. Post-op complication appears as 2 ser... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771072 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771071&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000278%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article discusses technical aspects, human casuistic, and rationale of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) vaginal access. Vaginal access can be performed by direct vision using conventional instruments or by first introduction of an umbilical laparoscope to visualize the introduction of a transvaginal trocar. Insufflation through the endoscope’s channel should be avoided and preferentially achieved by transvaginal insufflation, Veress needle, or laparoscopic trocar. Abdominal procedures may be approached transvaginally classified as Totally NOTES, Hybrid NOTES, NOTES-assisted laparoscopy, or using natural orifice only for specimen extraction (NOSE). Vaginal wound is usually closed with absorbable sutures under direct vision using conventional instruments. Vagina... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771071 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771071 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771070&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000254%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Over the past 100 years, there has been a gradual progression in the field of surgery from the traditional invasive open laparotomy to increasingly less invasive techniques of laparoscopy. In contrast, the field of gastrointestinal endoscopy has become increasing more interventional, with therapeutic endoscopists performing procedures previously only performed by surgeons, including transgastric pseudocyst drainage and transgastric endoscopic pancreatic debridement. Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) appears to represent a convergence of the two fields of minimally invasive surgery and interventional endoscopy. NOTES is the performance of intra-abdominal interventions via an incisional opening through a natural orifice. Although initial studies were focused on the tran... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771070 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771070 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771069&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS109628830900028X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) has been the focus of extensive research since the first NOTES procedure was reported in 2004 by Kalloo and colleagues. Although a number of animal experiments and some human experiences of NOTES have been reported in the last few years, there are many issues that need to be addressed before this technique is adopted widely in clinical practice. Achieving a safe and effective access to the peritoneal cavity at an optimal location using most favorable techniques was the foremost barrier. So far, transgastric, transrectal, transvaginal, and transurethral approaches have been reported as potential access routes to the peritoneal cavity, of which the transgastric route has been one of the most widely studied. Although the transgastric rou... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771069 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771068&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000266%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Interest in natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) within the thoracic cavity and the mediastinum is gaining momentum. The experience obtained from minimal invasive surgery suggests that the elimination of external incisions might potentially reduce the high morbidity of thoracic surgery associated with a thoracotomy and sternotomy by performing mediastinal and thoracic interventions through the esophagus. A variety of endoscopic transesophageal access techniques have been developed to approach mediastinal and thoracic structures such as full-thickness incision of the esophageal wall, submucosal tunneling, and endoscopic ultrasound-guided access. Initial experimental animal studies have shown that these NOTES techniques are feasible and potentially safe, opening a new aren... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771068 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771067&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000291%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The best way to predict the future is to invent it.Alan Kay b. 1940 You may ask why this issue of Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is dedicated to NOTES. The simple answer is that NOTES is the next frontier for gastrointestinal endoscopists. NOTES evolved using the principles and tools of therapeutic flexible endoscopy. Furthermore, developing the tools for NOTES will improve our standard therapeutic endoscopic procedures enabling further interventions within the gastrointestinal lumen. Although NOTES is still considered to be in the nascent stages of development, under the guidance of NOSCAR (Natural Orifice Surgery Consortium for Assessment and Research) and other working groups, much progress has been made in the last 5 years. (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771067 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771066&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000308%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This volume of Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is edited by Dr. Anthony Kalloo, who is well-known for his pioneering work in therapeutic endoscopy and NOTES. His vision is a perfect example of the innovation that is needed to move Gastroenterology forward. Some may clearly not be comfortable performing, or even contemplating, some of the procedures that are embodied within NOTES, but knowledge and understanding of the techniques and technologies embodied are critical. NOSCAR (formed as a collaboration of the ASGE and SAGES) has selected over 50 research projects to receive approximately $2,000,000 in funding to further explore the feasibility of this platform and to aid in development and assessment of the concept. (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771066 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771065&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000394%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771065 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771064&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000400%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771064 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771063&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000382%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771063 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2771062&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000370%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2771062 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2771062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478569&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000084%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The endoscopic evaluation and management of ampullary adenomas is an excellent example of the complimentary use of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in interventional endoscopy. EUS has an important role in the staging of ampullary masses and in the evaluation of underlying malignancy. Various technical approaches to EUS imaging of the ampulla have been described and each offers specific information regarding the resectability of these lesions. Short of surgical resection, EUS appears to offer the most detailed information regarding the T stage of ampullary lesions. This important information can be used to determine the likelihood of successful endoscopic therapy. Endoscopic papillectomy techniques have evolved over the past two dec... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478569 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478568&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000096%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe initial experience with TNFerade™, a replication deficient adenovirus vector that contains cDNA encoding for tumor necrosis factor, for treatment of adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. Finally, we review the current status of ethanol and a combination of ethanol and paclitaxel for ablation of pancreatic cysts. (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478568 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478567&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000072%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Indeterminate biliary strictures, those whose etiology remains unclear after initial workup, require further endoscopic evaluation. The biliary endoscopist may utilize both endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in the evaluation of indeterminate strictures, maximizing the relative strengths of both procedures. Techniques to optimize ERCP yield, including brush cytology, forceps biopsies, needle aspiration and direct cholangioscopy, are described in this article. Ultrasound evaluation, intraductal as well as EUS with fine needle aspiration, may also be used in concert with ERCP and these techniques are also described. The goal of endoscopic evaluation is the identification of malignant lesions at a resectable stage. (Source: Techniques in Gast... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478567 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478566&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000035%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has become the treatment of choice for palliation of malignant biliary obstruction, with lower morbidity and improved quality of life over surgical bypass, and a lower complication rate than percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC). Endoscopic palliation of biliary malignancies is an evolving arena. The interventional endoscopist has a choice of polyethylene stents of various configurations and uncovered, partially covered, or fully covered metal stents. The precise applications and patient selection for each of these stents is still a matter of considerable research and debate. In a minority of patients, when access to the biliary tree fails, either on account of duodenal obstruction, inability to cannulate the bile duct or inab... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478566 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478565&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000047%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Diagnosing chronic pancreatitis (CP) is challenging, particularly in patients with chronic abdominal pain but no obvious pancreatic insufficiency or calcifications. A variety of methods are available to diagnose and stage CP, but no gold standard currently exists, and diagnostic criteria are reliable only in severe CP. This review will focus on endoscopic methods for diagnosing early CP including endoscopic retrograde pancreatography (ERP), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and endoscopic pancreatic function testing (ePFT). These methods are often used in combination to diagnose or exclude CP. Although there are a variety of methods available, diagnosing mild and moderate CP remains a challenge, and further refinements of diagnostic criteria are needed to advance the field of endoscopic diagnos... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478565 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478564&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000023%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Acute cholecystitis is typically addressed by cholecystectomy. Patients who are critically ill often undergo a percutaneous cholecystostomy as a temporizing measure and eventually undergo definitive surgery. In a small select group of patients in whom these options are undesirable, such as cirrhotics awaiting liver transplant, or those with a terminal illness in whom a percutaneous tube is unacceptable, there is a growing experience with internal drainage of the gallbladder. The gallbladder can be drained into the gut either at endoscopic cholangiography (ERCP) via the major papilla or transluminally during endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS). There is a growing body of literature, mainly comprised of small case series that have described experience with transpapillary drainage and when succe... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478564 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478563&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000060%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Choledocholithiasis is a common clinical condition that poses a risk for pancreatitis, jaundice, and cholangitis. The need to determine the presence or absence of bile duct stones is most often an issue in patients with symptomatic cholelithiasis and planned cholecystectomy, and in patients with biliary pancreatitis. This review highlights the role of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) in the detection of choledocholithiasis, including a description of the recommended techniques and best practices when performing these endoscopic procedures. Patients can be categorized based upon clinical presentation and laboratory values into low, moderate, and high probability for common bile duct stones, and this likelihood governs the diagnostic approach. ERC i... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478563 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478562&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000059%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This edition of Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy focuses on the evolving interface of Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS) and Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiography and Pancreatography (ERCP) in pancreatic and biliary pathology Much progress has been made in the therapy of pancreatic and biliary disorders in the past decade and most of this progress has been through flexible endoscopic and EUS techniques. We have seen increasing collaboration between physicians separately trained in ERCP and those specializing in EUS. In addition there has been recognition that specialists that practice in this arena benefit from training in both procedures. The integration of these technologies has demonstrated impact in the management of commonly encountered conditions including stone disease, strict... Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478562 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478561&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000138%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478561 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478560&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000126%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478560 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478559&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000114%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478559 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2478558&cid=s_38675_17_f&fid=38675&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.techgiendoscopy.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1096288309000102%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2478558 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2478558