Incidence of pulmonary embolism in patients with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer.

Background: Studies have suggested a benefit from extended venous thromboprophylaxis post-operatively in colorectal cancer with an assumed base rate of zero venous thromboembolic events prior to treatment. We aim to establish the incidence of pulmonary embolism in patients with newly diagnosed stage III or IV colorectal cancer prior to any treatment.

Method: Consecutive patients presenting to a single health service with a new diagnosis of stage III or IV colorectal cancer were identified from a prospective database, for the period between January 2011 and September 2014.

Endoscopic balloon dilatation of Crohn's strictures: a safe method to defer surgery in selective cases.

Background: Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) provides a valuable alternative to surgery for strictures in Crohn's disease (CD). Data are lacking regarding the factors that improve the safety and effectiveness of EBD in CD. The aim of this study is to determine the safety and efficacy of EBD and the clinical variables, which are predictive of successful treatment of CD strictures with EBD.