The American journal of gastroenterology
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Am. J. Gastroenterol. · Mar 2006
The risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients with small liver nodules on MRI.
The presence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has important implications for patients with cirrhosis. Studies have not compared the risk of cancer in cirrhotic patients with small liver nodules to cirrhotic patients without nodules. Our aim was to determine the risk of HCC in cirrhotic patients with small liver nodules on MRI compared to those without nodules. ⋯ The incidence of HCC in patients with small liver nodules is significantly higher compared to patients with cirrhosis without liver nodules. The presence of small liver nodules warrants increased imaging surveillance for HCC.
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Am. J. Gastroenterol. · Mar 2006
Comparative StudyComparison of transesophageal endoscopic plication (TEP) with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) in the treatment of uncomplicated reflux disease.
Transesophageal endoscopic plication (TEP) is a novel endotherapeutic approach in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This non-randomized prospective study compares TEP with laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF). ⋯ Both techniques improved symptom score, acid regurgitation, quality of life, and reduced the requirements for PPIs. The control of heartburn and acid reflux was better for LNF. TEP, like LNF, is a safe and effective method of management of symptomatic GERD but further developments are necessary to ensure control of esophageal acid reflux.
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Am. J. Gastroenterol. · Mar 2006
Comparative StudyPerception of electrocutaneous stimuli in irritable bowel syndrome.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) are common conditions with some similarities, but different perceptual responses to somatic and visceral stimuli. The purpose of this study was to assess in a large group of IBS patients the somatic perception by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and its relation to the level of severity and presence of FMS. ⋯ IBS patients showed somatic hypoalgesia to electrical stimuli. The severity of IBS and the presence of FMS influence the perception of somatic stimuli induced by TENS.