Devin Lane

Bowel preparation regimens for colon capsule endoscopy: A review

Colon capsule endoscopy (CCE) is being actively evaluated as an emerging complementary or alternative procedure for evaluation of the colon. The yield of CCE is significantly dependent on the quality of bowel preparation. In addition to achieving a stool-free colon the bowel preparation protocols need to decrease bubble effect and aid propulsion of the capsule. An extensive English literature search was done using PubMed with search terms of colon capsule endoscopy, PillCam and bowel preparation. Full-length articles which met the criteria were included for review. A total of 12 studies including 1149 patients were reviewed. There was significant variability in the type of bowel preparation regimens. Large-volume (3–4 liters) polyethylene glycol (PEG) was the most widely used laxative. Lower volumes of PEG showed comparable results but larger studies are needed to determine efficacy. Sodium phosphate was used as an effective booster in most studies. Magnesium citrate and ascorbic acid are emerging as promising boosters to replace sodium phosphate when it is contraindicated. The potential benefit of prokinetics needs further evaluation. Over the past decade there has been significant improvement in the bowel preparation regimens for CCE. Further experience and studies are likely to standardize the bowel preparation regimens before CCE is adopted into routine clinical practice.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepatic and perihepatic abscess drainage: an evolving technique

Interventional radiology-guided percutaneous drainage of liver abscesses with concomitant use of antibiotics has been the conventional approach for the treatment of liver abscesses. Hepatic abscesses refractory or not amenable to percutaneous drainage have been treated with surgical drainage, either via laparoscopic or open laparotomy techniques. The aim of this review was to evaluate the technical feasibility and efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage of liver abscesses. A literature review was performed to identify the studies describing the technique. In this review article we have summarized case series or reports describing EUS-guided liver abscess drainage. The indications, techniques, endoprostheses, limitations and complications reported are discussed. A total of seven cases have been described so far in the literature which included patients with failed conventional treatment modalities. The EUS-guided drainage technique involves puncturing the abscess using endosonography to gain access, passing a guidewire followed by tract dilation and placement of an endoprosthesis for drainage. Studies have reported 100% technical and clinical success rates in selected cases. No complications were reported. EUS-guided drainage of liver abscesses can be a safe and effective alternative approach in the management of liver abscesses in selected patients.