“Dry Biopsy” Technique Improves Visualization of Barrett Esophagus

Consensus guidelines on the surveillance of Barrett esophagus recommend a comprehensive biopsy protocol that includes random four-quadrant biopsy samples taken every 1–2 cm and directed sampling of suspicious areas. This systematic approach has been shown to be more effective than nonsystematic biopsy sampling for the detection of Barrett neoplasia. However, in longer-segment (>3 cm) BE, this biopsy protocol can cause bleeding that might hamper endoscopic viewing and increase the time and effort required for directed biopsies. Might spraying suspicious areas with dilute epinephrine before four-quadrant sampling reduce the risk for such bleeding?

This prospective, double-blind, randomized study involved 40 patients who had either known high-g…