Korean J Neurogastroenterol Motil.
2009 Jun;15(1):23-30.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Barrett's Esophagus: Opinions of Korean Doctors
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. stomachlee@skku.edu
Abstract
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BACKGROUND/AIMS: There are no detailed guidelines for the diagnosis and management of Barrett's esophagus in Korea. The aim of this study was to assess the variation in the management of Barrett's esophagus among Korean physicians.
METHODS
Ninety-seven physicians were surveyed by keypad voting. Images of endoscopically suspected esophageal metaplasia were shown to the participants, who were then asked to answer seven questions in PowerPoint format.
RESULTS
Nearly 50% of responders answered that they would take three or four pieces of tissue, 12.1% would obtain one or two pieces, and 16.5% would take no biopsy. Twelve percent of responders would take tissues at points 1 cm apart in four directions and only 9.9% would do so at points 2 cm apart in four directions. Concerning medical treatment, 43.5% of responders would treat using an on-demand regimen after relief, 33.7% would use an intermittent regimen after relief, and 19.5% would use a proton pump inhibitor (13.0% daily, 6.5% every other day).
CONCLUSIONS
Korean physicians have different opinions on Barrett's esophagus, especially regarding the number of biopsies and the medical treatment. This variation indicates the need for guidelines.
