Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a photochemical process that uses a photosensitizer drug activated by laser light to produce mucosal ablation. Porfimer sodium PDT has proved long-term efficacy and durability in the…
GASTOINESTINAL SURGERY
Endoscopic Evaluation and Advanced Imaging of Barrett’s Esophagus
Enhanced visualization techniques are available for Barrett’s esophagus and have promise in the detection of dysplasia and cancer. Several of these techniques, such as narrow band imaging and chromoendoscopy, are…
Biology of Barrett’s Esophagus and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
The past few years have brought new advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Although knowledge of the genetic basis…
Barrett’s Esophagus Surveillance: When, How Often, Does It Work?
Barrett’s esophagus is a well-known risk factor for the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Current practice guidelines recommend endoscopic surveillance of patients with Barrett’s esophagus in an attempt to detect cancer…
Barrett’s Esophagus: Clinical Issues
Barrett’s esophagus has been defined conceptually as the condition in which any extent of metaplastic columnar epithelium that predisposes to cancer development replaces the stratified squamous epithelium that normally lines…
Bariatric Surgical Anatomy and Mechanisms of Action
Because bariatric surgery is becoming increasingly common, gastroenterologists need to be familiar with the surgical and endoscopic anatomy of the operations in use today. This review focuses on the 4…
Current Status of Endoluminal Bariatric Procedures for Primary and Revision Indications
Endoscopic bariatric procedures are gaining traction as possible minimally invasive treatment modalities for obesity. This article focuses on the various endoscopic devices and procedures that pertain to primary and revisional…
Regulatory and Reimbursement Issues Regarding Endoscopic Bariatric Procedures
Although innovation marches forward and places new therapeutic options at our doorsteps, the regulatory and payer environment must be considered if any of these new opportunities will be available in…
Management of Postsurgical Leaks in the Bariatric Patient
Postsurgical leaks after bariatric procedures are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. They usually arise from anastomotic and staple line failures that are attributed to surgical technique, ischemia, and…
Accessing the Pancreatobiliary Limb and ERCP in the Bariatric Patient
The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) accounts for more than 60% of bariatric procedures performed in the United States today. The RYGB anatomy poses particular challenges to interventional endoscopists who intend…
