The American College of Gastroenterology annual conference serves as the premier gastrointestinal event of the year: delivering the latest clinical updates on a wide spectrum of GI disorders and the 2016 edition was no exception. The ACG’s mission is to advance world-class care for patients with gastrointestinal disorders using innovative methods in prevention and treatment.
Here are a few of the highlights and insights gained during ACG 2016 in Las Vegas October 14-19 courtesy of Preclinical Testing Program Manager Matthew Elder.
Demand remains for elective GI surgery
There was a high level of focus on elective surgical procedures for the implant of devices to treat GI conditions typically related to obesity and diet including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy intragastric balloons and indwelling stomach aspiration pumps. While the best therapies are usually diet and lifestyle first, patients continue to opt instead for rather intensive, invasive surgeries with cumbersome post surgery devices required. As long as demand remains, and as long as the associated procedures and devices improve outcomes and reduce costs, new ones will continue their march through development and regulatory approval into the market.
Novel new treatment methods including multiple modalities
The endoscopic video forum, which featured 9 case studies, showcased several unique endoscopic methods. We saw a novel approach to control biliary bleeding, a dual modality procedure utilizing biliary stenting paired with RF ablation combined into one treatment.
It appears treatment for GI conditions is trending away from a single clear cut, by the book approach and trending toward personalized treatments drawing on a menu of endoscopic, surgical, medicinal and lifestyle options and the scores of opportunities created by utilizing a combination of these options.
What the T3 Labs team found most promising are innovations that lead to less invasive or non-invasive surgeries and procedures and shorter recovery times. This is where the future of GI treatment lies.
You need a trusted partner in preclinical and surgical training
If you are evaluating the viability of a novel medical device or product for GI, are ready for preclinical testing, or seeking the best training for your physicians, surgeons or sales teams, T3 Labs is a full service CRO that provides an efficient experience for preclinical testing and training. We are committed to excellence in every facet of translational research, including gastroenterology.
“Programs at T3 Labs are professionally composed, orchestrated, and performed at a high level of value,” says Marc Bolton, Clinical Education Manager for Applied Medical. “I need a facility with reliable, knowledgeable scientific experts on staff and equipment that replicates a surgeon’s experience, when it matters most, in the OR.”
Contact Program Manager Matthew Elder or call (404) 251-0634.
