Comparison between Two Types of 22-Gauge Fine-Needle Biopsy for Solid Pancreatic Tumors.

Background: Tissue sampling using endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration is the gold standard for diagnosing malignant pancreatic tumors; however, its sensitivity and specificity are highly variable. Thus, fine-needle biopsy using cutting needles has been developed to overcome current limitations and improve diagnostic yield. Our study compared two fine-needle biopsy needles for tissue sampling for pancreatic solid lesions.

Efficacy of cap-assisted forward-viewing endoscopy as a method for the evaluation of the ampulla of Vater.

Introduction: endoscopic evaluation of the ampulla of Vater (AV), although routinely recommended, is not always possible due to its anatomic configuration, which can hide it from the visual field of the forward-viewing endoscope. Cap-assisted forward-viewing endoscopy has been proposed as a useful alternative to facilitate the examination of this structure.

Objectives: to assess the efficacy of cap-assisted forward-viewing endoscopy for the complete evaluation of the AV.

Risk factors and endoscopic treatment for anastomotic stricture after resection in patients with colorectal cancer.

Introduction: Benign strictures are frequent complications following colorectal surgery, with an incidence of up to 20%. Endoscopic treatment is safe and effective but there is not enough evidence for establishing stricture management at that anatomic level.

Aim: To determine the risk factors associated with the development of stricture in patients with colorectal cancer and describe endoscopic treatment in those patients.