The Development of Dysplasia and Adenocarcinoma During Endoscopic Surveillance of Barrett's Esophagus

Abstract

If confirmed by larger follow-up studies, our results suggest that surveillance endoscopy can be safely deferred for at least 2 yr following an initial biopsy that is negative or indeterminate for dysplasia. Adoption of this approach would substantially reduce the cost of surveillance for adenocarcinoma. Future trials should explore the role of antireflux surgery in protecting against neoplastic transformation of Barrett's esophagus.