Diagnostic accuracy of abdominal ultrasound in the screening of esophageal varices in patients with cirrhosis.

Background: Abdominal ultrasound (US) may provide data on the presence of esophageal varices in cirrhosis. We assess the diagnostic accuracy of this procedure.

Patients And Methods: Retrospective recording of clinical data was carried out in cirrhotic patients who underwent abdominal US and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

How and when should NSAIDs be used for preventing post-ERCP pancreatitis? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been shown to be efficacious to prevent pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). However, the target patients, the type of NSAID, the route of administration and the time of drug delivery remain unclear, as well as the potential efficacy in reducing the severity of pancreatitis, length of hospital stay and mortality. The objective of the study was to evaluate these questions by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis.

[Cost of screening for hepatocarcinoma in patients with cirrhosis: a prospective study].

Introduction: Current clinical guidelines recommend biannual screening for hepatocarcinoma in cirrhotic patients; however, the cost of this preventive activity is unknown.

Objective: To determine the cost of ultrasound screening for hepatocarcinoma in patients with cirrhosis.

Patients And Method: Data on patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis in a population of 245,042 inhabitants were prospectively gathered.