Predictors for inappropriate proton pump inhibitor use: observational study in primary care.

Background: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) indications are limited to gastrointestinal disorders and ulcer prophylaxis. However, PPIs are among the most frequently prescribed drugs.

Aim: To evaluate the appropriateness of PPI prescriptions and identify predictive factors for inappropriate PPI use.

Changes in Management of Left-Sided Obstructive Colon Cancer: National Practice and Guideline Implementation.

Background: Previous analysis of Dutch practice in treatment of left-sided obstructive colon cancer (LSOCC) until 2012 showed that emergency resection (ER) was preferred, with high mortality in patients aged ≥70 years. Consequently, Dutch and European guidelines in 2014 recommended a bridge to surgery (BTS) with either self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) or decompressing stoma (DS) in high-risk patients. The implementation and effects of these guidelines have not yet been evaluated.

Self-expandable metal stent placement versus emergency resection for malignant proximal colon obstructions.

Background: Traditionally, all patients with a malignant obstruction of the proximal colon (MOPC) are treated with emergency resection. However, recent data suggest that Self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement could lower mortality and morbidity rates. This study therefore aimed to compare SEMS placement with emergency resection as treatment options for MOPC.

Profiling of circulating microRNAs in patients with Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Background: Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) have been suggested as novel markers for various diseases. The goal of this pilot study was to identify circulating miRNAs differentially expressed comparing Barrett's esophagus (BE), esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), and controls.

Methods: MicroRNA expression profiling was performed by qPCR array using plasma from six controls and eight BE and eight EAC patients.

Stent placement for esophageal strictures: an update.

The use of stents for esophageal strictures has evolved rapidly over the past 10 years, from rigid plastic tubes to flexible self-expanding metal (SEMS), plastic (SEPS) and biodegradable stents. For the palliative treatment of malignant dysphagia both SEMS and SEPS effectively provide a rapid relief of dysphagia. SEMS are preferred over SEPS, as randomized controlled trials have shown more technical difficulties and late migration with plastic stents.