Cuffitis: is an endoscopic approach possible?

Abstract

Background Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the reference surgical treatment for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) refractory to medical treatment. One of the complications is leaving a strip of rectal mucosa which can be a cause of persistent inflammation or cuffitis. The objective of our study is to present an endoscopic approach for the treatment of cuffitis. Methods This retrospective study included three patients who suffered from cuffitis after a proctocolectomy with IPAA for UC refractory to medical treatment. An endoscopic resection of the cuffitis was performed by the same operator. Two different techniques were used: hybrid endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for one patient and mucosectomy with cap and resection for the two others. Results The endoscopic treatment was performed successfully in all three patients. The only complication observed was rectal bleeding which did not require endoscopic revision. The three patients are now asymptomatic. Conclusion Endoscopic treatment of cuffitis appears to be an interesting approach with few complications in the short term and good clinical efficacy.