March 2013 Vol XXXVII Issue 3
Frontiers in Endoscopy
Introduction to a New Series: Frontiers in EndoscopyFrontiers in Endoscopy, Series #1
Biliary Cannulation: An Update on Tools and TechniquesEndoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a commonly performed endoscopic procedure to assess and manage biliary and pancreatic conditions. Achieving cannulation of the desired duct is a prerequisite for any successful ERCP procedure. Many techniques have been developed and refined over time, and this manuscript will review the current state-of-the-art of biliary cannulation.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Practical Approach, Series #81
Development and Treatment of Fibrosis in Crohn’s DiseaseSeveral factors are associated with higher rates of progression to intestinal fibrosis in Crohn?s disease patients. In this article we discuss these factors, available imaging studies to distinguish between inflammatory and fibrotic strictures (key to effective management), treatment options and future directions in therapy.
A Special Article
How Would You React to Intermediate Values of Lipase?The aim of this study is to determine physicians’ interpretation of intermediate values of serum lipase (IVSL, a lipase level above the upper normal limit but below 3 times that value), and in which cases pancreatitis is diagnosed. Since IVSL is not sufficient to diagnose acute pancreatitis, this retrospective study aims to determine what additional parameters are utilized by physicians to establish the diagnosis of pancreatitis.
Nutrition Issues in Gastroenterology, Series #115
Bone Health After Major Upper Gastrointestinal SurgeryBone Mineral Disease can be painful, debilitating and result in increased fracture risk. It is highly prevalent in those having had major upper gastrointestinal surgery with multiple contributing factors. Awareness of the risk factors and early screening can help prevent or slow the onset of disease. Here we discuss the need for health professionals to be vigilant in screening for and managing BMD.
A Case Report
Simultaneous Detection of IgM Anti-Hepatitis E Virus and Anti-Epstein-Barr Virus in Acute HepatitisDepartments Section
KECK MEDICAL CENTER OF USC OFFERS NEW TREATMENT FOR CHRONIC REFLUX DISEASE
Clinical trial results published in the New England Journal of Medicine in February offer additional evidence that a new device may help relieve chronic heartburn symptoms that standard treatment cannot. The Keck Medical Center of USC was one of 14 U.S. and European medical centers to test the device prior to its March 2012 approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
SWALLOW SOLUTIONS LAUNCHES THERAPEUTIC DEVICES TO IMPROVE DYSPHAGIA
Swallow Solutions LLC, a company dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of individuals suffering with swallowing disorders - known as dysphagia - has launched a therapeutic device specifically designed to treat this disorder.
REIMBURSEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT FOR CELLVIZIO OPTICAL BIOPSIES
Mauna Kea Technologies, leader in the optical biopsy market and developer of Cellvizio®, the fastest way to see cancer, announced recently that Cellvizio procedures in the upper GI tract have been added to the Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) approved procedure list.
