Long-term Effect of the HCV Elimination With Direct-acting Antivirals on the Progression of Gastroesophageal Varices.

Background/aim: Gastroesophageal varices (GEV) hemorrhage is a serious complication that can lead to unfavorable outcomes in cirrhotic patients. However, the clinical impact of HCV elimination [sustained viral response (SVR)] by direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), particularly on the long-term effects on the endoscopic findings of GEV have not been sufficiently evaluated. This study aimed to investigate whether HCV elimination with DAA treatment suppresses the progression of GEV.

Feasibility of Double-Deployment Small-Diameter Covered Metallic Stent for Malignant Distal Biliary Obstruction (with Video).

Background/objectives: Covered self-expandable metallic stents (CSEMS) are commonly used to treat malignant distal biliary obstructions. A 10-mm CSEMS carries the risk of obstructing the pancreatic and cystic duct orifices by adhering to the bile duct; therefore, postoperative pancreatitis and cholecystitis are reported to occur at a certain frequency. We have adopted a new drainage technique for malignant distal biliary obstruction called ''double-slim SEMS stenting" (DSS), where two small-diameter CSEMS are placed side-by-side.

Factors Predicting Treatment Adherence in Outpatients with Cancer-Related Edema: Decision Tree Analysis.

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the combination of factors associated with continuity of care in outpatients with cancer-related edema six months after the initial visit.

Patients And Methods: A total of 101 outpatients were divided into two groups: continuation (n=65) and non-continuation (n=36) groups. Details regarding age, body mass index, sex, affected extremities (upper or lower), site of edema (unilateral or bilateral), International Society of Lymphology (ISL) classification, presence of distant metastasis, and overall score on the lymphedema quality of life questionnaire (LYMQOL) were obtained before initial lymphedema care.

Skin mechanical properties measured with skin elasticity measurement device in patients with lymphedema: Scoping review.

Background: Skin conditions in patients with lymphedema have been identified according to changes in skin mechanical properties. The skin elasticity meter is a non-invasive tool for measuring the mechanical properties of the skin; however, its potential use in patients with lymphedema has received little attention. This review aimed to provide an overview of studies measuring the skin mechanical properties of patients with lymphedema using a skin elasticity meter.