An animal training model for endoscopic treatment of Zenker's diverticulum.

Background: Zenker's diverticulum (ZD) is an uncommon disease, which is typically treated surgically. The alternative to surgery is a diverticulotomy, performed endoscopically. Given the rarity of this condition, it is not possible to obtain training.

Widespread EMR: a new technique for removal of large areas of mucosa.

Background: Widespread EMR is a novel technique for resection of large areas of mucosa as a single bloc. Large lesion size (>2 cm) is a recognized limitation of current EMR techniques. This study assessed the technical feasibility, efficacy, and safety of widespread EMR in a porcine model.

Development of a swine model for benign stenosis of the bile duct by endoscopic application of intraluminal thermal injury.

Background: A simple animal model is desirable for the study of endoscopic therapies used in the management of biliary strictures. The aim of this study was to identify a method for inducing benign biliary stenoses in a porcine model by using endoscopic techniques.

Methods: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography was performed in 9 swine.

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose: A better submucosal fluid cushion for endoscopic mucosal resection.

Background: Formation of a submucosal fluid cushion has become integral to endoscopic mucosal and polyp resection. Solutions available for injection into the submucosa of the GI tract create short-lasting submucosal fluid cushions or are costly. The feasibility, durability, and histologic response to submucosal fluid cushions created by injection of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose were studied in the esophagus of pigs.

Comparative performance in the porcine esophagus of different solutions used for submucosal injection.

Background: Before endoscopic mucosal resection and polypectomy of sessile lesions, injection of fluid into the submucosa cushions and isolates the tissue and thereby reduces thermal injury and the risk for perforation and hemorrhage. This study investigated the performance of 5 different solutions when used to form submucosal fluid cushions in the porcine esophagus.

Methods: Five groups of 5 pigs were studied.

First endoluminal system for transmural resection of colorectal tissue with a prototype full-thickness resection device in a porcine model.

Background: Endoluminal transmural resection of colorectal lesions is a pivotal advance in endoscopic technology. A full-thickness resection device has been developed that functions through a combination of tissue grasping, stapling, and cutting under endoscopic guidance. This preclinical study evaluated the performance, safety, and effectiveness of the full-thickness resection device in a porcine model.

Endoluminal gastroplication. A new therapeutic endoscopic procedure for gastroesophageal reflux disease.

It is estimated that more than 15 million Americans suffer daily from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (De Vault, 1995). The spectrum of symptoms for GERD ranges from simple heartburn and regurgitation to persistent esophageal tissue damage with subsequent development of serious complications. The frequent occurrence and intensity of GERD symptoms can severely impact a person's quality of life (Behar, 1990).