Validation and efficacy of the Varix Trainer model as a Training device for esophagogastroduodenoscopy.

The Varix Trainer model 1 (VTM1) was created for trainees to safely practice basic endoscope manipulation skills. The VTM1 was tested to see if it could distinguish levels of endoscope manipulation skills (construct validity) and whether training with it could improve these skills faster (content validity). We enrolled 23 novice endoscopists, 18 second-year trainees, and 13 expert endoscopists.

Factors associated with patency of self-expandable metal stents in malignant biliary obstruction.

Introduction: Endoscopic self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement is the key endoscopic treatment for unresectable malignant biliary obstruction. The benefit of covered SEMS over uncovered SEMS remains unknown as are risk factors for SEMS dysfunction. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with patency of SEMS.

Jaundice Caused by Hyperemesis Gravidarum.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by intractable vomiting and associated with weight loss exceeding 5% of prepregnancy body weight, dehydration, and ketosis. Hyperemesis gravidarum occurs during the first trimester and typically resolves by 16 to 20 weeks of gestation. Approximately half of all hospitalized females with hyperemesis gravidarum have a mild elevation in liver enzymes; however, jaundice and hepatic synthetic dysfunction are uncommon.

Outcomes of delayed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with acute biliary pancreatitis with cholangitis.

Objective: The recommended treatment for acute biliary pancreatitis(ABP) with cholangitis is urgent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP). However, tight schedules in the endoscopy room mean that urgent ERCP may not always be performed. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of early (≤72 h) and delayed(>72 h) ERCP in patients with ABP with cholangitis.

'Short' double-balloon enteroscope endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with a surgically altered upper gastrointestinal tract.

Background: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) remains a challenge for endoscopists in patients with surgically altered anatomy of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Double-balloon enteroscopes (DBEs) have revolutionized the ability to access the small bowel. The indication for its therapeutic use is expanding to include ERCP for patients who have undergone small bowel reconstruction.

Thalidomide for the treatment of chronic gastrointestinal bleeding from angiodysplasias: a case series.

Background: Mucosal angiodysplasias, either inherited or acquired, can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, sometimes refractory to treatment. From earlier case reports, thalidomide has been described to possess some benefits in this disease, but its benefits and risks nevertheless remain unclear.

Objectives: This pilot study assesses the efficacy, safety, and side-effect of thalidomide in the treatment of patients with chronic gastrointestinal bleeding from angiodysplasias.

Folate is absorbed across the colon of adults: evidence from cecal infusion of (13)C-labeled [6S]-5-formyltetrahydrofolic acid.

Background: Folate deficiency increases the risk of several human diseases. Likewise, high intakes of folate, particularly synthetic folic acid intake, may be associated with adverse health outcomes in humans. A more comprehensive understanding of the "input side" of folate nutrition may help to set dietary recommendations that strike the right balance between health benefits and risks.

Double-balloon enteroscopy following capsule endoscopy in the management of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding: outcome of a combined approach.

Background: There is no consensus on the relative accuracy of capsule endoscopy (CE) versus double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) to investigate obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). CE is less invasive, but DBE more directly examines the small bowel, and allows tissue sampling plus therapeutic intervention.

Objectives: To evaluate the yield and outcome of DBE following CE in patients with obscure GIB.

Factors predisposing to peptic ulcer disease in asymptomatic cirrhotic patients.

Background: There is a high prevalence of peptic ulcer in cirrhotic patients, but the pathogenesis of peptic ulcer in cirrhosis remains inconclusive.

Aim: To investigate factors associated with peptic ulcer and to evaluate peptic ulcer prevalence in asymptomatic cirrhotic patients.

Methods: A total of 130 cirrhotics were recruited into the study for endoscopic screening.