Treatment of Barrett's esophagus with a novel focal cryoablation device: a safety and feasibility study.

Background And Aims: Currently, eradication of Barrett's epithelium is preferably achieved using radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or spray cryoablation (SCA). However, both modalities suffer from drawbacks such as the need for sizing, multiple deployment steps, large controller units (RFA), imprecise dosing and need for gas-venting (SCA). The new Cryoballoon Focal Ablation System (CbFAS) may address these limitations.

Community-associated methicillin-resistant staphylococcal infection in an inner city hospital pediatric inpatient population.

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has emerged as a serious problem in the community setting, primarily as a cause of skin and soft tissue infections.

Methods: A retrospective study based on the review of pediatric inpatients admitted to Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center from March 2006 to February 2007 was performed.

Results: Eighteen (55%) of the thirty-three patients identified were infected with community associated (CA) MRSA.