Complete ablation of BE can be achieved in a high percentage of patients even in a multicenter design using high-power APC. However, APC has a relevant morbidity. Therefore, ablation of nonneoplastic BE cannot be recommended generally because incidence of cancer in BE is low.

These results show that SEPS are effective for the palliation of dysphagia in patients with esophageal malignancies. The immediate results are similar to those observed with SEMS, and the observed low rate of late obstruction suggests that their long-term efficacy might be superior to that of SEMS. This device warrants evaluation in a controlled prospective trial.

Our results show that the Cliny PEG 13 is a safe technique and an alternative to other methods and surgical procedures in patients in whom a PEG was not applicable by means of the pull-through technique. Larger case numbers and the use in other patient collectives will have to prove these initial results.

Our study suggests that BSE might be clinically effective in patients with collagenous colitis. Larger trials are clearly necessary to establish the clinical efficacy of BSE.

Single-dose ceftriaxone 1 g is a effective prophylaxis against local and systemic infection after PEG and should be a part of a standard regimen.

Quality of life is seriously reduced in patients with collagenous colitis. Six-week treatment with oral budesonide controlled-release capsules significantly improves quality of life and clinical symptoms compared with placebo in these patients.

No abstract

After being commissioned by the DGVS, the organizational procedure was discussed with the vice chairman of the AWMF (Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany), Dr. Ina Kopp, who also advised on methodology in the project. On 10 January 2007 the guideline project was registered at the AWMF (AWMF Register No. 014/021).