Imaging tests for accurate diagnosis of acute biliary pancreatitis

Gallstones represent the most frequent aetiology of acute pancreatitis in many statistics all over the world, estimated between 40%-60%. Accurate diagnosis of acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) is of outmost importance because clearance of lithiasis [gallbladder and common bile duct (CBD)] rules out recurrences. Confirmation of biliary lithiasis is done by imaging. The sensitivity of the ultrasonography (US) in the detection of gallstones is over 95% in uncomplicated cases, but in ABP, sensitivity for gallstone detection is lower, being less than 80% due to the ileus and bowel distension. Sensitivity of transabdominal ultrasonography (TUS) for choledocolithiasis varies between 50%-80%, but the specificity is high, reaching 95%. Diameter of the bile duct may be orientative for diagnosis. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) seems to be a more effective tool to diagnose ABP rather than endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which should be performed only for therapeutic purposes. As the sensitivity and specificity of computerized tomography are lower as compared to state-of-the-art magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) or EUS, especially for small stones and small diameter of CBD, the later techniques are nowadays preferred for the evaluation of ABP patients. ERCP has the highest accuracy for the diagnosis of choledocholithiasis and is used as a reference standard in many studies, especially after sphincterotomy and balloon extraction of CBD stones. Laparoscopic ultrasonography is a useful tool for the intraoperative diagnosis of choledocholithiasis. Routine exploration of the CBD in cases of patients scheduled for cholecystectomy after an attack of ABP was not proven useful. A significant rate of the so-called idiopathic pancreatitis is actually caused by microlithiasis and/or biliary sludge. In conclusion, the general algorithm for CBD stone detection starts with anamnesis, serum biochemistry and then TUS, followed by EUS or MRCP. In the end, bile duct microscopic analysis may be performed by bile harvested during ERCP in case of recurrent attacks of ABP and these should be followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Drainage of Pancreatic Pseudocysts: Medium-Term Assessment of Outcomes and Complications

OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage is a widely used treatment modality for pancreatic pseudocysts (PPC). However, data on the clinical outcome and complication rates are conflicting. Our study aims to evaluate the rates of technical success, treatment success and complications of EUS-guided PPC drainage in a medium-term follow-up of 45 weeks.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted for 55 patients with symptomatic PPC from December 2005 to August 2010 drained by EUS. Medium-term follow-up data were obtained by searching their medical history or by telephonic interview.

RESULTS

A total of 61 procedures were performed. The symptoms that indicated drainage were abdominal pain (n = 43), vomiting (n = 7) and jaundice (n = 5). The procedure was technically successful in 57 of the 61 procedures (93%). The immediate complication rate was 5%. At a mean follow-up of 45 weeks, the treatment success was 75%. The medium term complications appeared in 25% of cases, which included three cases each of stent clogging, stent migration, infection and six cases of recurrence. There was no mortality.

CONCLUSION

EUS-guided drainage is an effective treatment for PPC with a successful outcome in most of patients. Most of the complications require minimal invasive surgical treatment or repeated EUS-guided drainage procedures.

Neutrophil/Lymphocyte Ratio as Predictor of Anastomotic Leak after Gastric Cancer Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is known as a prognostic for the outcome of the patients with gastric cancer. As no definite risk marker for anastomotic leakage after gastric resection was identified, we investigated the possible role of NLR.

METHODS

Peripheral blood count for neutrophils and lymphocytes was done at the patient's admission. We retrospectively evaluated 204 gastric cancer patients, who underwent gastric resection, comparing the values of NLR between the group of patients with anastomotic leakage and those without complications.

RESULTS

Using the ROC curve, we found the cutoff value of NLR, which permitted the comparison of the group with low NLR, presenting increased NLR. The cutoff value for NLR was 3.54. Between the two groups, we could observe statistically significant differences in developing fistula (p < 0.01) and complications leading to death (p < 0.025). The odds ratio for patients with NLR greater than 3.54 to develop anastomotic leak was 17.62, compared to those with lower NLR.

CONCLUSION

Peripheral blood NLR proved to be a predictor for anastomotic leakage.

Management of recurrent inguinal hernias: a prospective study of 163 cases

There remains debate as to how recurrent inguinal hernias should be managed. This study aimed to establish a management plan for recurrent hernias. From 1991-2000, 163 patients were operated on for recurrent inguinal hernias. The average interval from the initial surgery to recurrence was 46 months (range 10 days-13 years). The initial surgery prior to recurrence was Shouldice and other techniques without mesh in 142 cases, a Stoppa or a Lichtenstein procedure in ten and three cases, respectively, and laparoscopic repair in eight cases. The recurrent hernias were treated with a Shouldice repair in 52 cases (31.9%), the Lichtenstein technique in 48 cases (29.4%), a totally extraperitoneal laparoscopic repair in 40 cases (24.5%), and a Stoppa procedure in 23 (14.1%). The approaches to management evolved with time: the use of prostheses for recurrent hernia repair increased from 10% in 1991 (2/10) to 100% in 2000 (22/22). In contrast, the Shouldice repair decreased from 90% (18/20) in 1991 to 0% (0/22) in 2000. The Lichtenstein technique was first employed in 1993, in patients with a history of a conventional, laparoscopic, or Stoppa repair and has increased to represent 77% of cases (17/22) in 2000. The Stoppa technique has not been used since 1998. The use of a totally extraperitoneal laparoscopic approach went from 11% (2/18) in 1992 (introduction of the technique) to 23% (5/22) in 2000 and is reserved for recurrence after a Lichtenstein procedure or after conventional repair in working and/or physically active patients without any contraindications to general anesthesia. Prosthetic reinforcement has become the norm in the treatment of recurrent hernias. Given a previous conventional repair, the prosthesis can be placed by either an anterior or posterior approach. The approach is dependent on the level of activity and operability of the patient. If the recurrence follows a totally extraperitoneal or a Stoppa procedure, then the Lichtenstein intervention is recommended. A recurrence after a Lichtenstein procedure should be treated by a totally extraperitoneal approach.

CD34-Structure, Functions and Relationship with Cancer Stem Cells

The CD34 protein was identified almost four decades ago as a biomarker for hematopoietic stem cell progenitors. CD34 expression of these stem cells has been exploited for therapeutic purposes in various hematological disorders. In the last few decades, studies have revealed the presence of CD34 expression on other types of cells with non-hematopoietic origins, such as interstitial cells, endothelial cells, fibrocytes, and muscle satellite cells. Furthermore, CD34 expression may also be found on a variety of cancer stem cells. Nowadays, the molecular functions of this protein have been involved in a variety of cellular functions, such as enhancing proliferation and blocking cell differentiation, enhanced lymphocyte adhesion, and cell morphogenesis. Although a complete understanding of this transmembrane protein, including its developmental origins, its stem cell connections, and other functions, is yet to be achieved. In this paper, we aimed to carry out a systematic analysis of the structure, functions, and relationship with cancer stem cells of CD34 based on the literature overview.

Presepsin as a Potential Prognostic Marker for Sepsis According to Actual Practice Guidelines

The 2016 Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines define sepsis as life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. This study had the objective of assessing the efficacy of presepsin in the prognosis of sepsis. This was a single-center prospective study, performed in Craiova Emergency Hospital, that included 114 patients admitted in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) department between 2018 and 2019 fulfilling the sepsis criteria. Including criteria were: age ≥ 18, sepsis diagnosed by the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score of pulmonary, abdominal, urinary, surgical or unknown origin, as well as lactate levels ≥ 2 mmol/l and need of vasopressors for mean arterial pressure (MAP) ≥ 65 mmHg, despite adequate volume resuscitations for patients with septic shock. Patients younger than 18, pregnant, immunocompromised, or with terminal illnesses were excluded. Based on disease severity, patients were distributed into two study groups: sepsis-76 patients and septic shock-38 patients. As expected, SOFA score and most of its components (PaO2/FiO2, platelets, and Glasgow Coma Score (GCS)) were significantly modified for patients with septic shock compared to those in the sepsis group and for survivors versus non-survivors. Overall death rate was 34.2%, with a significantly higher value for patients with septic shock (55.3% vs. 23.7%, p = 0.035). Sepsis marker presepsin was significantly elevated in all patients (2047 ng/mL) and significantly increased for the septic shock patients (2538 ng/mL, p < 0.001) and non-survivors (3138 ng/mL, p < 0.001). A significant correlation was identified between the SOFA score and presepsin (r = 0.883, p < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristics (ROC)-Area Under Curve (AUC) analysis showed significant prognostic values for presepsin regarding both sepsis severity (AUC = 0.726, 95% confidence interval CI = 0.635-0.806) and mortality risk (AUC = 0.861, 95%CI = 0.784-0.919). In conclusion, under the revised definition of sepsis, presepsin could be a useful marker for prognosis of sepsis severity and mortality risk. Additional data are required to confirm the value of presepsin in sepsis prognosis.

Contrast enhanced ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosis

BACKGROUND

The new developments in imaging technology, including contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), allow a better diagnosis of both malignant and benign liver lesions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective trial of 126 patients was conducted in the Gastroenterology and Imaging Departments of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Craiova, Romania. CEUS and MRI were the imaging techniques used for diagnosis of focal liver lesions (FLL), especially for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Histopathology was used only in 15 cases. For each method of investigation we calculated the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV), positive and negative likelihood ratio (+LR, -LR), accuracy and we compared the ROC curves. Statistical analysis also included the Chi-square and Kappa tests.

RESULTS

Seventy six cases were diagnosed as HCC, with average size of 5.2±3.3 cm in diameter. The sensitivity and specificity were 71.4% and 95.6% for CEUS and 91.4%, 98.9% respectively, for MRI. When comparing the ROC curves, we found a higher area under curve for MRI (0.952) then for CEUS (0.835) (p=0.005), and 95% confidence interval of 0.0343 to 0.199. No statistically significant difference in diagnosis of FLL was found between CEUS and MRI (p > 0.05) and the agreement between the two imaging techniques was good (k = 0.78).

CONCLUSIONS

CEUS can be used as the first step in the diagnosis of liver lesions, but MRI remains the gold standard diagnostic method for liver tumors.

Could Periodontal Disease through Periopathogen Fusobacterium Nucleatum be an Aggravating Factor for Gastric Cancer?

Periodontal disease affects the supporting tissues of the teeth, being a chronic inflammatory disease caused by specific microorganisms from subgingival biofilm. Fusobacterium nucleatum is a Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium that acts as a periodontal pathogen, being an important factor in linking Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in the periodontal biofilm, but its involvement in systemic diseases has also been found. Several studies regarding the implication of Fusobacterium nucleatum in gastro-enterological cancers have been conducted. The present review aims to update and systematize the latest information about Fusobacterium nucleatum in order to evaluate the possibility of an association between periodontal disease and the evolution of gastroenterological cancers through the action of Fusobacterium nucleatum, highlighting gastric cancer. This would motivate future research on the negative influence of periodontal pathology on the evolution of gastric cancer in patients suffering from both pathologies.

Assessing tumor angiogenesis in colorectal cancer by quantitative contrast-enhanced endoscopic ultrasound and molecular and immunohistochemical analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Data on contrast-enhanced endoscopic ultrasound (CE-EUS) for colorectal cancer (CRC) evaluation are scarce. Therefore, we aimed to assess the vascular perfusion pattern in CRC by quantitative CE-EUS and compare it to immunohistochemical and genetic markers of angiogenesis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of CE-EUS examinations of 42 CRC patients, before any therapy. CE-EUS movies were processed using a dedicated software. Ten parameters were automatically generated from the time-intensity curve (TIC) analysis: peak enhancement (PE), rise time (RT), mean transit time, time to peak (TTP), wash-in area under the curve (WiAUC), wash-in rate (WiR), wash-in perfusion index (WiPI), wash-out AUC (WoAUC), and wash-in and wash-out AUC (WiWoAUC). The expression levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1) and VEGFR2 genes were assessed from biopsy samples harvested during colonoscopy. Microvascular density and vascular area were calculated after CD31 and CD105 immunostaining.

RESULTS

Forty-two CE-EUS video sequences were analyzed. We found positive correlations between the parameters PE, WiAUC, WiR, WiPI, WoAUC, WiWoAUC, and N staging (Spearman r = 0.437, r = 0.336, r = 0.462, r = 0.437, r = 0.358, and r = 0.378, respectively, P < 0.05), and also between RT and TTP and CD31 vascular area (r = 0.415, and r = 0.421, respectively, P < 0.05). VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 expression did not correlate with any of the TIC parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

CE-EUS with TIC analysis enables minimally invasive assessment of CRC angiogenesis and may provide information regarding the lymph nodes invasion. However, further studies are needed for defining its role in the evaluation of CRC patients.

Psoriatic arthritis due to nivolumab administration a case report and review of the literature

Nowadays we have novel equipment for lung cancer diagnosis, however; due to lack of symptoms, lung cancer is still diagnosed at a late stage. Currently we have the following therapies for non-small cell lung cancer: a) non-specific cytotoxic agents, b) targeted therapies and c) immunotherapy. Each therapy has its own advantages and adverse effects. In the current case we will present a rare case of psoriacic arthritis that was presented after two cycles of nivolumab administration and we will also present a review of the literature.

Insights into the Relationship between Pentraxin-3 and Cancer

Although cancer can be cured if detected early and treated effectively, it is still a leading cause of death worldwide. Tumor development can be limited by an appropiate immune response, but it can be promoted by chronic extensive inflammation through metabolic dysregulation and angiogenesis. In the past decade, numerous efforts have been made in order to identify novel candidates with predictive values in cancer diagnostics. In line with this, researchers have investigated the involvement of pentraxin-3 (PTX-3) in cellular proliferation and immune escape in various types of cancers, although it has not been clearly elucidated. PTX-3 is a member of the long pentraxin subfamily which plays an important role in regulating inflammation, innate immunity response, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling. Increased synthesis of inflammatory biomarkers and activation of different cellular mechanisms can induce PTX-3 expression in various types of cells (neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, myeloid dendritic cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells). PTX-3 has both pro- and anti-tumor functions, thus dual functions in oncogenesis. This review elucidates the potential usefulness of PTX-3 as a serum biomarker in cancer. While future investigations are needed, PTX-3 is emerging as a promising tool for cancer's diagnosis and prognosis, and also treatment monitoring.

Determination of VEGFR-2 (KDR) 604A>G Polymorphism in Pancreatic Disorders

Pancreatic disorders have a high prevalence worldwide. Despite the fact that screening methods became more effective and the knowledge we have nowadays about pancreatic diseases has enhanced, their incidence remains high. Our purpose was to determine whether single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of VEGFR-2/KDR (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2/kinase insert domain receptor) influences susceptibility to develop pancreatic pathology. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples collected from patients diagnosed with acute pancreatitis (n = 110), chronic pancreatitis (n = 25), pancreatic cancer (n = 82) and healthy controls (n = 232). VEGFR-2 (KDR) 604A>G (rs2071559) polymorphism frequency was determined with TaqMan allelic discrimination assays. Statistical assessment was performed by associating genetic polymorphism with clinical and pathological data. In both pancreatic disorders and healthy control groups the polymorphism we studied was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Association between increased risk for pancreatic disorders and studied polymorphism was statistically significant. KDR 604AG and AG + GG genotypes were more prevalent in acute pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer patients than in controls. These genotypes influence disease development in a low rate. No association was found between chronic pancreatitis and KDR 604AG and AG + GG genotypes. In Romanian cohort, we found an association between the KDR 604A→G polymorphism and acute pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. Carriers of the -604G variant allele were more frequent among acute pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer than among controls, suggesting that KDR 604G allele may confer an increased risk for these diseases. In the future, more extensive studies on larger groups are necessary, in order to clarify the role of VEGFR2 polymorphisms in pancreatic pathology.

Surgical hepatic resection vs. ultrasonographic guided radiofrequency ablation in colorectal liver metastases: what should we choose?

Clinical evolution of the colorectal carcinoma occurs in up to 60% with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Although hepatic resection is considered to be the golden standard in CRLM, novel less invasive techniques have emerged, of which radiofrequency ablation has received a high credibility. When tumors are not eligible for surgery, guided radiofrequency ablation is considered an alternative. This method is appropriate when there are no more than 5 lesions with a diameter of less than 3 cm. While open surgery guarantees a more precise tumor excision, the effectiveness of ablation must be evaluated either by contrast-enhanced computer tomography, magnetic resonance, or ultrasound. This paper aim to review the current standings in radiofrequency ablation for CRLM and to compare the technique with surgical resection in order to find which one is the best treatment option.

Laparoscopic Repair for Perforated Peptic Ulcer: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUNDS

The incidence of patients presenting with perforated peptic ulcers (PPU) has decreased during the last decades. At the same time, a laparoscopic approach to this condition has been adopted by increased number of surgeons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the early postoperative results of the laparoscopic treatment of perforated peptic ulcer performed in eight Romanian surgical centers with extensive experience in laparoscopic surgery.

METHODS

Between 2009 and 2013, 297 patients with perforated peptic ulcer were operated in the eight centers participating in this retrospective study. The patients' charts were reviewed for demographics, surgical procedure, complications and short-term outcomes.

RESULTS

Boey score of 0 was found in 122 patients (41.1%), Boey 1 in 169 (56.9%), Boey 3 in 6 (2.0%). For 145 (48.8%) patients, primary suture repair was performed, in 146 (49.2%) primary suture repair with omentopexy. There were 6 (2.0%) conversions to open surgery. The operative time was between 25 and 120 min, with a mean of 68 min. Two (0.7%) deaths were noted. Mean hospital stay was 5.5 days, ranges 3-25 days. Postoperative complications included: 7 (2.4%) superficial surgical site infections, 5 (1.6%) cardiovascular, 3 (1.0%) pulmonary, 2 (0.7%) duodenal leakages, 3 (1.0%) deep space infections and 1 (0.3%) upper digestive hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that the laparoscopic approach for PPU is feasible; the procedure is safe, with no increased risk of duodenal fistulae or residual intraperitoneal abscesses. We now consider the laparoscopic approach for PPU as the "gold standard" in patients with Boey score 0 or 1.

Primary parahiatal hernias: A case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Parahiatal hernias (PHHs) are rare occurring disease, with a reported incidence of 0.2%-0.35% in patients undergoing surgery for hiatal hernia. We found only a handful of cases of primary PHHs in the literature. The aim of this paper is to present a case of a primary PHH and perform a systematic review of the literature.

CASE SUMMARY

We report the case of a 60-year-old Caucasian woman with no history of thoraco-abdominal surgery or trauma, which accused epigastric pain, starting 2 years prior, pseudo-angina and bloating. Based on imagistic findings the patient was diagnosed with a PHH and an associated type I hiatal hernia. Patient underwent laparoscopic surgery and we found an opening in the diaphragm of 7 cm diameter, lateral to the left crus, through which 40%-50% of the stomach had herniated in the thorax, and a small sliding hiatal hernia with an anatomically intact hiatal orifice but slightly enlarged. We performed closure of the defect, suture hiatoplasty and a "floppy" Nissen fundoplication. Postoperative outcome was uneventful, with the patient discharged on the fifth postoperative day. We performed a review of the literature and identified eight articles regarding primary PHH. All data was compiled into one tabled and analyzed.

CONCLUSION

Primary PHHs are rare entities, with similar clinical and imagistic findings with paraesophageal hernias. Treatment usually includes laparoscopic approach with closure of the defect and the esophageal hiatus should be dissected and analyzed. Postoperative outcome is favorable in all cases reviewed and no recurrence is cited in the literature.

The Impact of Cancer Stem Cells in Colorectal Cancer

Despite incessant research, colorectal cancer (CRC) is still one of the most common causes of fatality in both men and women worldwide. Over time, advancements in medical treatments have notably enhanced the survival rates of patients with colorectal cancer. Managing metastatic CRC involves a complex tradeoff between the potential benefits and adverse effects of treatment, considering factors like disease progression, treatment toxicity, drug resistance, and the overall impact on the patient's quality of life. An increasing body of evidence highlights the significance of the cancer stem cell (CSC) concept, proposing that CSCs occupy a central role in triggering cancer. CSCs have been a focal point of extensive research in a variety of cancer types, including CRC. Colorectal cancer stem cells (CCSCs) play a crucial role in tumor initiation, metastasis, and therapy resistance, making them potential treatment targets. Various methods exist for isolating CCSCs, and understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance associated with them is crucial. This paper offers an overview of the current body of research pertaining to the comprehension of CSCs in colorectal cancer.

New inductive proximity sensor platform for precise localization of small colorectal tumors

Location of small gastric or colorectal tumors during a laparoscopic procedure is often imprecise and can be misleading. There is a real need for a compatible and straightforward tool that can be used intraoperatively to help the surgeon in this regard. We emphasize in the present work on the fabrication of a new and innovative inductive proximity switch architecture, fully compatible with laparoscopic surgery and with direct application in precise localisation of bowel tumors. An electromagnetic detection probe optimized for laparoscopic surgery and preconditioned for sterilisation was designed and constructed. Various metallic markers designed to be attached to the gastrointestinal mucosa were used for detection by the probe, from standard endoscopic and laparoscopic haemostatic clips to other custom made tags. Experiments were performed in dry and wet-lab experimental laboratory environment using ex-vivo segments of calf's small bowel and colonic surgical specimens from human patients. The dry-lab detection range varied considerably depending on the metallic component of the tags, from 0.5 mm for the endoscopic hemostatic clip to 3.5 mm for the 0.9 mm thickness stainless-steel custom tags. The latter was actually detectable from the serosal side of the fresh colonic surgical specimens in 85% of the attempts if the scanned area was less than 150 cm2 and less than 2 mm of fat was interposed between the probe and the bowel. The newly designed system has the potential to discover metallic tags attached to the bowel mucosa for precise intraoperative laparoscopic location of digestive tumors. Further work is in progress to increase the sensitivity and detection range of the system in order to make it fully compatible with the clinical use.

Has COVID-19 Modified the Weight of Known Systemic Inflammation Indexes and the New Ones (MCVL and IIC) in the Assessment as Predictive Factors of Complications and Mortality in Acute Pancreatitis?

We aimed at evaluating the prognostic capacity of the inflammatory indices derived from routine complete blood cell counts in two groups of patients with acute pancreatitis from two different time periods, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, when a high incidence of complications with surgical risk and mortality was found. Two new markers were introduced: the mean corpuscular volume to lymphocyte ratio (MCVL) and the cumulative inflammatory index (IIC), which were calculated at a baseline in the two groups of patients. Of the already established markers, none of them managed to effectively predict the complications with surgical risk and mortality, with a decrease of less than 50% in specificity in the peri-COVID group. The MCVL had the best prediction of complications with surgical risk in both the pre-COVID and peri-COVID groups, validated it as an independent factor by multivariate analysis. The IIC had the best prediction of mortality in both periods and was proven to be an independent factor by multivariate analysis. As the IIC predicted death best, we tested the occurrence of death and found that patients with PA who had an IIC > 12.12 presented a risk of death 4.08 times higher in the pre-COVID group and 3.33 times higher in the peri-COVID group. The new MCVL and IIC independent markers had a superior sensitivity and specificity in predicting surgical risk complications and, respectively, mortality in the group of patients with acute pancreatitis during the COVID-19 pandemic, which makes them widely applicable in populations with modified immune and inflammatory status. Conclusions: In patients with acute pancreatitis, MCVL has a significant predictive value regarding complications with surgical risk (abscess, necrosis, and pseudocyst), and the IIC has a significant predictive value for mortality.

Mini-laparoscopic cholecystectomy with the MiniLap® percutaneous surgical system: a series of 32 patients

BACKGROUND

In recent years, mini-laparoscopic procedures are gaining the preference of most surgeons due to their potentially better surgical outcomes. The Mini Lap Percutaneous Surgical System with MiniGrip® Handle is currently the less invasive instrument and can be applied to a wide range of operations. The current paper presents its application on percutaneous laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2017 to June 2017, 32 patients underwent percutaneous laparoscopic cholecystectomy with the MiniLap® system. All operations were performed by the same surgical team.

RESULTS

No conversions and no overall complications were reported. Drainage were not necessary. Mean surgical time was 35 minutes, while patients were released in <24 hours after the operation.

CONCLUSION

The MiniLap system with the use of the mini grip handle seems to sustain the benefits of performing laparoscopically. However, further trials should be conducted so as to establish its safety on cholecystectomies.

SRED-ARCE Recommendations for Minimally Invasive Interventions During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Romania

The Romanian Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SRED) and the Romanian Association of Endoscopic Surgery (ARCE) have decided to establish a joint working group to elaborate specific recommendations for organizing the diagnostic and the minimally invasive interventional procedures, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendations are based on the guidelines of the international societies of endoscopy and gastroenterology (ESGE / BSG / ASGE / ACG / AGA), respectively endoscopic surgery (EAES SAGES) (4-8), on the experience of countries severely affected by the pandemic (Italy, France, Spain, USA, Germany, etc.) and they will be applied within the limits of measures imposed at local and governmental level by the competent authorities. On the other hand, these recommendations should have a dynamic evolution, depending on the upward or downward trend of the COVID-19 pandemic at regional and local level, but also according to the findings of professional and academic societies, requiring regular reviews based on the publica tion of further recommendations or international clinical trials. The objectives of the SRED and ARCE recommendations target the endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery activities, to support their non discriminatory used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, pursuing the demonstrated benefits of these procedures, in safe conditions for patients and medical staff.

Design of a predictive score to assess the risk of developing hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy. A retrospective study

Background: Temporary hypocalcemia is the most common complication in patients after total thyroidectomy. To date, according to the literature, various predictors of the above complication have been proposed, but none of them seems to be effective enough. Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop a reliable predictive tool for biochemical hypocalcemia in the first 48 hrs after total thyroidectomy without central dissection by analyzing several parameters relevant to this operation and to suggest a new score. Methods: A retrospective study was performed on patients who had undergone total thyroidectomy without central neck dissection from October 2017 until January 2018. Data were collected from 36 patients and studied if there was a statistically significant relationship between the risk of hypocalcemia and 10 preselected prognostic factors. Results: The prognostic score was formed, which included the 6 factors that showed a statistically significant relationship. Moreover, an extensive check of the predictive value of the above score was performed. It was found, therefore, that at a value of 3 and above the sensitivity was 100%, the specificity 79.16%, the positive prognostic value (PPV) 70.58% and the negative predictive value (NPV) 100%. Conclusions: High sensitivity of CaReBe'S TiP score makes it feasible to predict patients with postoperative hypocalcemia. High NPV would allow surgeons to exclude patients with a score less than 3 from supplementary calcium medication and achieve a shorter hospitalization for them.

Expression of Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 in Gingival Crevicular Fluid during Wound Healing after Gingivectomy in Postorthodontic Patients

Background. Wound healing is a tissue repair process after an injury, and two of its main components are inflammation and angiogenesis, in which course a cascade of mediators is involved. The aim of this research was to evaluate the involvement of Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 in wound healing after periodontal surgery (gingivectomy) for gingival overgrowth during orthodontic treatment with or without magnification devices, by assessing their levels in GCF. Methods. From 19 patients with gingival overgrowth as a result of fixed orthodontic treatment, the overgrown gingiva was removed by gingivectomy, from one half of the mandibular arch without magnification and from the other under magnification. Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 were determined from gingival crevicular fluid by ELISA tests. Results. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) and correlations between levels of the two biomarkers were analyzed. Statistically significant differences were established between levels of the two biomarkers at different time points, with significant positive correlation at the point of 24 hours. Conclusions. Within the limitations of this study, the results seem to sustain the involvement of Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 in the processes of inflammation and angiogenesis in wound healing of patients with postorthodontic gingivectomy. The dynamics of Pentraxin 3 and Thrombospondin 1 levels could suggest a reduced inflammation and a faster angiogenesis using microsurgery.

Perioperative inflammatory response in natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery

BACKGROUND

Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) could offer multiple advantages compared with the laparoscopic approach. One such potential advantage, not yet proven, is the inferior inflammatory response, which translates into less significant operative stress. This study aimed to compare the immuno-inflammatory response between transgastric NOTES and laparoscopy for simple surgical procedures (oophorectomy) with reference to the cytokine levels.

METHODS

For this study, 20 female pigs were randomly assigned to either NOTES or laparoscopic oophorectomy. Seven animals were used as a control group and received only general anesthesia, with no other procedure performed. Blood samples were obtained before surgery, 1 h after the start of the procedure, and at the end of the intervention. The serum levels of IL1β and IL6 were determined using a porcine enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. The mean operative time, intraoperative incidents, and postoperative complications were recorded. On postoperative day 14, the animals were killed, and gastric leak tests were performed.

RESULTS

Both the NOTES and laparoscopic procedures were successfully completed. No gastric leaks were observed during necropsy. The transgastric oophorectomy required a significantly longer time to perform than the laparoscopic surgery. Compared with the NOTES procedures, laparoscopic oophorectomy resulted in significantly higher levels of interleukin-1β (IL1β) (42.34 ± 5.26 ng/ml with NOTES vs 46.93 ± 4.79 ng/ml with laparoscopy; p = 0.028) and IL6 (66.95 ± 7.29 ng/ml with NOTES vs 71.75 ± 4.76 ng/ml with laparoscopy, p = 0.049) during the postoperative phase. No statistical difference was detected between the pre- and postoperative cytokine levels in the NOTES group.

CONCLUSION

The study findings suggest that pure transgastric endoscopic surgery is a safe approach resulting in less perioperative inflammatory response than laparoscopy in the early postoperative phase.

Therapeutic Options in Postoperative Enterocutaneous Fistula-A Retrospective Case Series

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to present the results obtained in our experiment regarding the management of postoperative enterocutaneous fistulas (PECF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study on 64 PECF registered after 2030 abdominal surgeries (1525 digestive tract surgeries and 505 extra-digestive ones) over a period of 7 years (1st of January 2014-31th of December 2020) in the 1st and 2nd Surgery Clinics, Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Craiova, Romania. The group included 41 men (64.06%) and 23 women (35.34%), aged between 21-94 years. Of the cases, 71.85% occurred in elderly patients over 65 years old. Spontaneous fistulas in Crohn's disease, intestinal diverticulosis, or specific inflammatory bowel disease were excluded.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of 3.15% varied according to the surgery type: 6.22% after gastroduodenal surgery, 1.78% after enterectomies, 4.30% after colorectal surgery, 4.28% after bilio-digestive anastomoses, and 0.39% after extra-digestive surgery. We recorded a 70.31% fistula closure rate, 78.94% after exclusive conservative treatment and 57.61% after surgery; morbidity was 79.68%, mortality was 29.68%.

CONCLUSION

PECF management requires a multidisciplinary approach and is carried out according to an algorithm underlying well-established objectives and priorities. Conservative treatment including resuscitation, sepsis control, output control, skin protection, and nutritional support is the first line treatment; surgery is reserved for complications or permanent repair of fistulas that do not close under conservative treatment. The therapeutic strategy is adapted to topography, morphological characteristics and fistula output, age, general condition, and response to therapy.

Subgingival Periopathogens Assessment and Clinical Periodontal Evaluation of Gastric Cancer Patients-A Cross Sectional Pilot Study

Oral microbiota have shown a higher bacterial diversity in patients with cancers of the digestive tract, with higher levels of periopathogens. Recent studies have shown that Fusobacterium links to gastro-intestinal neoplastic tissue and accelerates its progression, as well as worsening patient outcome. The present pilot study was carried out between February and December 2020 to evaluate the possible association between the abundance of some periopathogens (Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia) in subgingival plaque and periodontal status with characteristics of gastric cancer. The study was performed on a sample of 24 patients with gastric cancer from the 1st Department of Surgery and Department of Gastroenterology within the Clinical County Hospital of Emergency of Craiova, Romania. The patients' oral cavity was examined, gingival crevicular samples were collected, and signs of periodontal disease were recorded. On the histopathological exam, the differentiation grade and size of the tumour were registered. Our results showed that, from the periopathogens studied, the most abundant bacteria were F. nucleatum followed by T. forsythia in all groups. In our present study, the strong correlation between tumour dimension and all periodontal parameters but also between tumour dimension and F. nucleatum could suggest a positive association between periodontal disease, tumoral growth and periopathogens implication in this process.