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Gastroenterology Top Stories of 2009

A perspective on the most important research in the field from the past year

Dear Readers,

Last year, we presented a list of the top medical stories of the year, at least as I saw them. This year, we're continuing the exercise and focusing on the most important gastroenterology stories of the year (Gastroenterology Top Stories of 2009: Editors' Choice). We're also adding a second list of stories that were most read online by you and your colleagues (Gastroenterology Top Stories of 2009: Most Read Online). Not surprising, the two lists do not match up (I know. I'm the one who's different).

What were some of the differences? Well, since colonoscopy seems to run the life of the gastroenterologist, I thought that the issue of CT colonography, the emerging data on using water infusion to facilitate colonoscopy, the improved tolerability and effectiveness of split doses for colonoscopy preparation, and the issue of withdrawal time would attract the most attention. However, online readers demonstrated that capsule endoscopy was their main interest in colon imaging. When it came to GERD and Barrett esophagus, I thought you would be most interested in the issues of acid rebound with PPIs, PPIs and clopidogrel, the lack of PPI effect in those with GERD and asthma, and the emerging role of ablation both in dysplastic and normal Barrett esophagus. However, online readers were more interested in nighttime GERD and in PPIs and other factors related to GI bleeding, although they were also interested in the PPI–clopidogrel interaction.

What do these differences mean? First, that we can all learn from each other about what is important to gastroenterologists, and, second, that there is much to be learned. I would encourage you to use these lists to expand your knowledge and discover what your colleagues are most interested in learning about.

Let us know what you think by sending us an e-mail at jwgastro@mms.org.

Best wishes for 2010!

— M. Brian Fennerty, MD

Published in Journal Watch Gastroenterology December 31, 2009