Fiber additives and bowel function with tube feeding: panacea or propaganda?
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Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to J F Hacker.
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We prospectively compared roentgenography and endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract in terms of patient acceptance and tolerance. Endoscopy was significantly better tolerated and easier overall for patients. Patients found no difference between endoscopy and radiography with respect to pain or life-style interruption. Patients stated that they would prefer endoscopy to roentgenography if repeat evaluation were needed. We conclude that UGI endoscopy is better tolerated and more acceptable to patients than UGI roentgenography.
The pain of chronic pancreatitis can be tremendously disabling. The pathogenesis of this pain is still poorly understood, but there is good evidence demonstrating an inverse relationship with the degree of pancreatic insufficiency. Pancreatic enzyme therapy of pain and celiac plexus blocks carry promise, but larger studies with these modalities are needed. Surgery for pain relief is the last resort and should be based on pancreatic duct anatomy.
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A prospective study of patients with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux was undertaken to determine the prevalence of Barrett's esophagus and reevaluate the diagnostic approach necessary to detect this complication. Endoscopy with mucosal biopsy was performed in 97 subjects. Twelve (12.4%) were found to have Barrett's esophagus. The sensitivity and specificity of the endoscopic and radiologic examinations for Barrett's esophagus were prospectively evaluated. Endoscopy (92%) was significantly more sensitive than radiology (24%) in detecting Barrett's esophagus (p less than 0.001). The frequency and severity of reflux symptoms among patients determined to have Barrett's esophagus, reflux esophagitis, or normal esophageal biopsies were quantitatively similar in all three groups, except for significantly greater daytime heartburn in those with reflux esophagitis (p less than 0.01). These data indicate that Barrett's esophagus complicates gastroesophageal reflux more often than previously believed.
The esophageal effect of topical anesthetics applied to the nasopharynx was evaluated. Eight healthy volunteers underwent an esophageal motility study after each of the following: no anesthesia, 5% cocaine solution applied to the nasopharynx, and 20% benzocaine spray applied to the pharynx. Upper esophageal sphincter relaxation was prolonged after use of the 5% cocaine solution. No other significant effects on esophageal motility or pressures were noted.
Sharp, irregular objects or long, thin objects pose the most danger and need immediate attention. Otherwise, objects impacted in the esophagus should be removed within 12 hours. Objects that have advanced into the stomach usually pass without problems and should be observed for up to two weeks. Symptoms of bowel perforation, bleeding or obstruction call for immediate surgery.
Hemorrhagic ascites is usually associated with a poor prognosis. A patient with hemorrhagic ascites having a potentially curable cause, primary splenic lymphoma (histiocytic type), is reported. It is believed that this is a new cause of hemorrhagic ascites that has not been previously described. The causes and pathogenesis of hemorrhagic ascites are reviewed. Computed tomography scan was helpful in suggesting the diagnosis and should be performed early in the evaluation of hemorrhagic ascites.