Saleem, Nasir

Abstract We aim to compare the benefits, harms, and costs of multiple plastic stents (MPS) versus covered self-expandable metallic stents (CSEMS) in the treatment of benign biliary strictures (BBS). A comprehensive database search through June 6, 2024 identified randomized controlled trials (RCT) involving adult patients with BBS comparing MPS to CSEMS in terms of stricture resolution, recurrence, technical success, number of required procedures and stents, treatment duration, all-cause mortality, adverse events, and stent migration. We utilized the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) tool2 for study quality assessment. Meta-analysis following the random effects model was performed. After screening 365 references, we included 7 RCTs (high RoB) involving 594 patients. Most reported stricture etiology is chronic pancreatitis (52.4%), followed by orthotopic liver transplant (40.5%). Compared with MPS, CSEMS achieved similar efficacy and safety. However, CSEMS required fewer procedures (mean difference [MD]: −1.84 [−2.56 to −1.11]; I2 = 76%) and stents (MD: −6.04 [−9.55 to −2.52]; I2 = 93%), amounting for shorter duration of treatment (MD: −119.02 days [−137.41 to −100.62]; I2 = 96%) and savings in costs between 41 and 57% with absolute savings of 4,019$ to 9,192$ favoring CSEMS. All outcomes had a low to very low certainty of evidence (CoE), except for technical success and stricture resolution (moderate CoE). Our analysis suggests that CSEMSs are comparable to MPSs in terms of efficacy and safety. However, it shows that CSEMSs are more cost-effective. Sample size calculations from our analyses can guide the design of future studies to validate the safety profiles and determine the feasibility of the two modalities.

Abstract Artificial intelligence (AI) and mucosal exposure devices like Endocuff have independently improved the adenoma detection rate (ADR) during colonoscopy. This meta-analysis evaluated the combined effect of Endocuff and AI versus AI alone on colorectal neoplasia detection rates. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the impact of Endocuff+AI versus AI alone on colorectal neoplasia detection. Primary outcome was ADR; secondary outcomes included advanced adenoma detection rate (AADR), sessile serrated lesion detection rate (SSLDR), cecal intubation time, and withdrawal time. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model. Three RCTs with 2404 subjects were included (n = 1198 Endocuff+AI vs. n = 1206 AI alone). ADR was significantly higher in the Endocuff+AI group than in the AI alone group (54% vs. 48%, respectively) (RR 1.12, 95% CI 1.03–1.21, P = 0.01, I2 = 0%). There was a trend toward higher AADR (12.3% vs. 10%, RR 1.23, 95% CI 0.96–1.59, P = 0.10, I2 = 17%) and SSLDR (17.6% vs. 15.5%, RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.96–1.40, P = 0.13, I2 = 0%) in the Endocuff+AI group compared with the AI alone group, but it did not reach statistical significance. Both cecal intubation time (MD -0.61 minutes; 95% CI -1.54–0.33; P = 0.20; I2 = 87%) and withdrawal time (MD -0.42 minutes; 95% CI -1.01–0.17; P = 0.17, I2 = 60%) were similar between the two groups. Endocuff combined with AI was superior to AI alone in improving the adenoma detection rate without increasing intubation or withdrawal times.

Background: Basidiobolomycosis is a rare fungal infection caused by Basidiobolus ranarum. Case Presentation: A 53-year-old man from Saudi Arabia with a known history of diverticulosis presented with severe abdominal pain and diarrhea. A CT scan revealed circumferential wall thickening of the descending and sigmoid colon with surrounding fat stranding, suggesting a diagnosis of complicated diverticulitis. Additional thick fluid was observed around the affected area. Surgical excision was pursued. A gross examination of two received large bowel segments disclosed marked ulcerated mucosa and wall thickening with exudate-covered serosal surfaces and adhesions. Microscopic examination unveiled significant infiltration by eosinophils, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and granulomatous inflammation. Thin-walled, broad fungal hyphae of Basidiobolus, surrounded by eosinophilic material, were identified. Granulomas displayed abundant multinucleated giant cells and palisading histiocytes around central necrosis or abscess formation. Thin-walled, broad fungal hyphae of Basidiobolus, with sparse septations, are surrounded by a radiating, intensely eosinophilic cuff (Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon). These hyphae, visible with hematoxylin and eosin staining, were further highlighted with periodic acid-Schiff and Gomori methenamine silver staining. Discussion: Basidiobolomycosis may mimic neoplastic lesions. Histologically, the characteristic features include broad, thin-walled septate hyphae surrounded by eosinophilic material, a finding that is accentuated by the Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon. Microscopic examination, along with special stains such as periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Gomori methenamine silver, is essential for accurate diagnosis. Conclusion: Prompt recognition and appropriate antifungal therapy are vital for favorable patient outcomes. This report highlights the distinctive features of Basidiobolomycosis to raise awareness and understanding of this infrequent yet clinically significant fungal infection.