Latest research on GI health presented at DDW 2008

Colonoscopy: New developments in polyp detection, colonoscopy preparation and sedation techniques that will increase the effectiveness of colonoscopy and ease patient concerns about the procedure will be presented. Research advances in sedation include computer-assisted sedation systems and the new evidence supporting the administration of propofol by GI physicians.

Monday, May 19 at Noon Pacific Time
DDW Abstract Numbers: 237, 877, 878, 883, 794, W1420 and a late breaking abstract.
Dial-in: 1-866-409-1563, passcode # 7347970

Pancreatic Cancer: New research detailing innovative methods to better understand the risk factors for and improve earlier detection of pancreatic cancer will be presented. Specifically, researchers will demonstrate that the development of new biomarkers, novel treatment targets, innovative approaches to screening and surveillance and improved understanding of risk factors can lead to diagnosis of pancreatic cancer at earlier more treatable stages.

Tuesday, May 20 at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time
DDW Abstract Numbers: 762, M1431, w1401 and 644.
Dial-in: 1-877-704-5379, passcode # 7191149

Imaging & Technology: A sophisticated new surgical technology holds promise for future painless and scarless surgery with shorter recovery times than laparoscopic surgery. New research supports the safety and efficacy of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES™ ) and details the outcomes associated with new tools and robotic applications.

Also, a new real-time microscopic technique could change the way gastrointestinal diseases are detected -- confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) effectively and immediately identifies suspicious activity and precancerous cells and may eliminate the need in many cases for biopsy in diagnosing gastrointestinal conditions. This could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of conditions including reflux disease, colon cancer and irritable bowel disease.

Sunday, May 18 at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time
DDW Abstract Numbers: 881, SP535, 876, 871, S1162, 673, M1989 and a late breaking abstract.
Dial-in: 1-888-500-6975, passcode # 1637244

Liver Disease: Researchers have made great strides in identifying better treatments for liver-related diseases. Results from new investigations into the creation of liver cells from embryonic stem cells; a potential link between recurrent urinary tract infections and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC); and identification of the most efficacious treatments for patients with hepatitis C will be presented.

Tuesday, May 20 at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time
DDW Abstract Numbers: 688, W1846, 461 and 161
Dial-in: 1-866-316-1365, passcode # 3688401

Obesity: Researchers will unveil new data outlining improved bariatric surgery options and studies that offer new insight into the related toll on the body created by obesity that can cause cancers of the esophagus and pancreas.