Interobserver agreement for EUS in the evaluation and diagnosis of submucosal masses.

Introduction: EUS is an accurate means of evaluating and diagnosing submucosal lesions of the GI tract. The aim of this study was to prospectively determine interobserver agreement for the EUS classification of submucosal masses among endosonographers with different levels of training and experience from multiple centers.

Methods: Twenty patients with submucosal mass lesions diagnosed by upper endoscopy underwent EUS.

Interobserver variability in endoscopic ultrasonography: a prospective evaluation.

Background: Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is an imaging modality that is now widely used to stage gastrointestinal malignancies. Few studies have addressed the issue of interobserver variability in the interpretation of EUS, particularly as it pertains to the staging of rectal carcinoma.

Methods: Twenty-six patients with a diagnosis of rectal carcinoma were evaluated prospectively by three endoscopists.

Clinical implications of endoscopic ultrasound: the American Endosonography Club Study.

Background: Despite increased clinical use of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), there are little data regarding complications of EUS or its impact on patient management.

Methods: A prospective multicenter study was completed to evaluate clinical outcomes of EUS. Before each EUS examination the endosonographer recorded further theoretical patient management plans as if EUS was unavailable.

Evaluation of short-chain fatty acid enemas: treatment of radiation proctitis.

Background: Radiation proctitis is a common complication of abdominal and pelvic radiotherapy; unfortunately, there is no established effective therapy for radiation proctitis. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) have been effectively used to treat a variety of colitides. We sought to determine whether SCFA enemas have a role in the treatment of radiation proctitis.

Endoscopic stenting for pain relief in chronic pancreatitis: results of a standardized protocol.

Background: Pancreatic endoscopic stenting aims to relieve abdominal pain due to chronic pancreatitis. Optimal treatment modalities and post-treatment effects have still to be determined. The object of this study was to investigate the results of a standardized protocol of endoscopic stenting.