Matched study of three methods for palliation of malignant pyloroduodenal obstruction

Partial stomach-partitioning gastrojejunostomy and the success of this procedure in terms of palliation

BACKGROUND

In the 1990s, partial stomach-partitioning gastrojejunostomy (PSPG) was introduced. Benefits of this method are that it preferentially shunts food away from the obstructed duodenum or pylorus, thus reducing reflex emesis.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing PSPG for malignant obstruction from 1999 to 2011 was performed. Ability to tolerate oral intake in the postoperative period and at last follow-up was the criterion for a successful bypass.

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients with locally advanced or metastatic tumors underwent PSPG. The median follow-up period was 8 months. No patient developed signs of gastric outlet obstruction after PSPG. Seventy-five percent of patients had pancreatic or duodenal and 25% had nonpancreatic cancers. Nine patients developed postoperative complications. The perioperative mortality rate was zero. Median overall survival was 9 months. All patients were tolerating an enteral diet on the day of discharge, and as of the last follow-up, 95% were tolerating their enteral diets.

CONCLUSIONS

This and a previous study from the authors' institution show that PSPG is a good alternative for palliative bypass in the setting of malignant gastric outlet obstruction over classic gastrojejunostomy.

Enteral stenting versus gastrojejunostomy for palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic placement of enteral self-expandable metallic stents is an alternative to surgical gastrojejunostomy (GJ) for palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). Factors associated with clinical outcomes are not known. The aims of this study are to compare the overall complication rate and effectiveness (duration of oral intake) between endoscopic stenting (ES) and GJ in patients with GOO and identify predictors of clinical outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study at a single tertiary academic center. Patients who underwent ES or GJ for treatment of GOO between 1/2001 and 12/2010 were identified using an institutional claims database. The electronic medical records for each patient were reviewed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to study the association of treatment outcomes with patient factors and cancer therapy.

RESULTS

120 patients had ES while 227 had GJ. Technical success was higher for GJ (99 vs. 96 %, p = 0.004). Complication rates were higher in the GJ group (22.10 vs. 11.66 %, p = 0.02). Reintervention was more common with ES [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 9.18, p < 0.0001]. Mean length of hospital stay (LOHS) was shorter (adjusted p = 0.005) in the ES compared with the GJ group. However, mean hospital charges, including reinterventions, were greater in the ES group (US $34,250 vs. US $27,599, p = 0.03). ES and GJ had comparable reintervention-free time in patients who had reintervention (88 vs. 106 days, respectively, p = 0.79). Chemotherapy [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 3 > 0.57, p = 0.04] and radiation therapy (adjusted HR 0.35, p = 0.03) were associated with significantly longer duration of oral intake after ES or GJ.

CONCLUSION

ES is associated with fewer complications, shorter LOHS, but higher reintervention rates and overall charges.

Gastroduodenal stents are associated with more durable patency as compared to percutaneous endoscopic gastrojejunostomy in the palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction

BACKGROUND

Gastroduodenal outlet obstruction (GOO) is a critical complication of cancers localized within and adjacent to the upper gastrointestinal tract. Approaches to the relief of GOO include surgical bypass with gastrojejunostomy (GJ), endoluminal placement of a self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS), and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy with jejunal extension (PEG-J). To date no studies have compared the outcome of utilizing PEG-J with other modalities of therapy.

OBJECTIVES

To determine if there is a difference in complications or effectiveness when survival and/or device patency of PEG-J is compared to that of gastroduodenal SEMS in patients with malignant GOO.

METHODS

Patients who underwent placement of either PEG-J or gastroduodenal SEMS for unresectable malignant GOO were included in a retrospective cohort study.

RESULTS

24 patients (12 men) with a median age of 68.5 years underwent either PEG-J (n=12) or gastroduodenal SEMS (n=12) placement. Patients undergoing SEMS placement experienced longer overall device patency and/or survival as compared to those undergoing PEG-J (median 70 versus 35 days). Complications, including the need for re-intervention, were similar among both groups. Patients who underwent PEG-J as compared to those that had SEMS placement had a hazard ratio of 3.85 (CI 1.28-11.11) for decreased overall survival.

CONCLUSION

In patients with malignant GOO, placement of a palliative SEMS for gastric decompression and nutrition was associated with longer aggregate device patency and survival as compared to PEG-J. Both modalities were similar with respect to complications and the need for re-intervention.

Stenting versus gastrojejunostomy for management of malignant gastric outlet obstruction: comparison of clinical outcomes and costs

Background

Although endoscopic stenting is increasingly performed, surgical gastrojejunostomy (GJ) is still considered the gold standard for relief of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). The aim of this study is to compare clinical outcomes and hospital costs between patients undergoing GJ or stenting for management of malignant GOO.

Methods

A retrospective claims analysis of the Medicare (MedPAR) database was conducted to identify all inpatient hospitalizations for GJ or endoscopic stenting for malignant GOO during 2007–2008. The main outcome measure evaluated using the MedPAR database was a comparison of the total length of hospital stay (LOS) and costs associated with both techniques. As MedPAR is a claims database that does not provide outcomes at patient level, a single-institution retrospective study was conducted to compare the rates of technical and treatment success, post-procedure LOS, and delayed complications per patient between the two techniques.

Results

The MedPAR claims data evaluated 425 stenting and 339 GJ hospitalizations. Compared with GJ, median LOS (8 vs. 16 days; p < 0.0001) and median cost (US $15,366 vs. US $27,391; p < 0.0001) per claim were both significantly lower for stenting. Stenting was more commonly performed at urban versus rural hospitals (89 % vs. 11 %; p < 0.0001), teaching versus non-teaching hospitals (59 % vs. 41 %, p = 0.0005), and academic institutions (56 % vs. 44 %; p = 0.0157). The institutional patient data analysis included 29 patients who underwent stenting and 75 who underwent surgical GJ. While both modalities were technically successful and relieved gastric outlet obstruction in all cases, compared with surgical GJ, the median post-procedure LOS was significantly lower for enteral stenting (1.5 vs. 10.7 days, p < 0.0001). There was no difference in rates of delayed complications between stenting and surgical GJ (13.8 % vs. 6.7 %; p = 0.26).

Conclusions

While the technical and clinical outcomes of surgical GJ and endoscopic stenting appear comparable, stent placement is less costly and is associated with shorter length of hospital stay. Dissemination of endoscopic stenting beyond teaching, academic hospitals located in urban areas as a treatment for malignant GOO is important given its implications for patient care and resource utilization.

Palliation of malignant upper gastrointestinal obstruction with self-expandable metal stent

OBJECTIVE

To assess the technical success, ability to eat, complications and clinical outcomes of patients with self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placed for malignant upper gastrointestinal (GI) obstruction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was collected retrospectively on patients who underwent SEMS placement for palliation of malignant upper GI obstruction by reviewing hospital charts from June 1998 to May 2011. Main outcome measurements were technical success, gastric outlet obstruction scoring system (GOOSS) score before and after treatment, complications, and survival.

RESULTS

A total of 82 patients underwent SEMS placement with malignant upper GI obstruction. The initial SEMS placement was successful in 77 patients (93.9%). The mean GOOSS score was 0.56 before stenting and 1.92 (p < 0.001) after treatment. Complications arose in 12 patients (14.6%): stent migration in 1 patient (1.2%), perforation in 1 (1.2%), and obstruction of stent due to tumor ingrowth in 10 (12.2%). The median survival time after stenting was 52 days (6-445).

CONCLUSION

SEMS placement is an effective and safe treatment for palliation of malignant upper GI obstruction. It provides lasting relief in dysphagia and improves the QOL of patients.

Endoscopic stenting versus gastrojejunostomy for palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction

The aim of the present study was to analyze endoscopic stenting versus gastrojejunostomy of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to analyze clinical trials on GOO. Six studies were eligible for analysis (three randomized control trials and three controlled clinical trials). Technical success (OR [95% CI]: 0.10 [0.02, 0.47]; I(2) = 0%; P = 0.003) and minor complications (OR [95% CI]: 0.28 [0.10, 0.83]; I(2) = 49%; P = 0.02). Time to oral intake and length of survival were also shorter in the endoscopic stenting (ES) group. There was no statistically significant difference in clinical success, length of survival, mortality and major complications. The present review demonstrated potentially improved quality of life in the ES group. ES is a safe and effective, minimally invasive and cost-effective option for palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction. The present review provides supportive evidence that ES should be considered as the gold standard treatment for malignant GOO.

Clinical outcomes, quality of life, advantages and disadvantages of metal stent placement in the upper gastrointestinal tract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review will discuss the immediate- and long-term success, complications and overall benefits of self-expandable metal stents (SEMSs) in malignant or benign obstruction of the oesophagus, stomach and duodenum. Over recent years, indications such as benign disease have expanded, as has SEMS diversity with self-expandable plastic stents (SEPSs) or fully covered and biodegradable stents, for example.

RECENT FINDINGS

SEMSs have been increasingly used in malignant upper gastrointestinal obstruction with many reports confirming efficacy, despite a significant complication rate. Fully covered stents are increasingly used for a variety of benign oesophageal disease, but their place in gastric outlet obstruction is still unclear. Covered and uncovered stents have different functional characteristics and stent type must be selected on an individual basis. Biodegradable stents show promise and the outcome of experience in larger patient cohorts is eagerly awaited.

SUMMARY

This area is an evolving field, in which the clinician requires up-to-date knowledge of therapeutic options to make individualized treatment choices in difficult clinical circumstances. Technical and clinical success for oesophageal or gastroduodenal SEMSs are then above 90%. Minor complications are common, but serious complications seldom occur. Biodegradable stents may be useful, especially when stenting is needed for a short period of time.

Treatment of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction with a nitinol self-expanding metal stent: an international prospective multicentre registry

BACKGROUND

Duodenal stenting has become a broadly accepted first line of treatment for patients with advanced malignant gastroduodenal obstruction as these patients are difficult to treat and are poor surgical candidates.

AIMS

To document duodenal stent performance for palliative management of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction.

METHODS

Multicentre, single arm, prospective registry documenting peroral endoscopic duodenal stenting procedures in 202 patients.

RESULTS

Technical success achieved in 98% (CI, 95%, 99%) of stent placements. Increase of Gastric Outlet Obstruction Score by at least 1 point compared to baseline was achieved in 91% (CI, 86%, 95%) of patients persisting for a median of 184 days (CI, 109, 266). By day 5 (CI, 4, 6) after stent placement, 50% of patients experienced a score increase of at least 1 point. Improvement from 14% of patients at baseline tolerating soft solids or low residue/normal diet to 84% at 15 days, 86% at 30 days, 81% at 90 days, 79% at 180 days, and 70% at 270 days. Complications included stent ingrowth and/or overgrowth (12.4%), transient periprocedural symptoms (3%), bleeding (3%), stent migration (1.5%), and perforation (0.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Safety and effectiveness of duodenal stenting for palliation of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction was confirmed in the largest international prospective series to date.

Gastroduodenal stenting

Palliative procedures for patients with malignant gastroduodenal obstruction must be readily available, have a rapid onset of action, and be well tolerated by a patient with terminal cancer. Laparoscopic gastroenterostomy and insertion of self-expanding stents are emerging as the current methods of choice.An increasing number of dedicated enteral stents with different properties are now available. These can be placed under fluoroscopic guidance alone or with the help of an endoscope. Endoscopic placement has several advantages but requires good collaboration between the endoscopists and the radiology department. Appropriate imaging and work-up of each case at multidisciplinary meetings is required. Coexisting biliary obstruction may be dealt with endoscopically, but frequently requires percutaneous biliary stent placement prior to duodenal stenting. Reintervention is required in up to 25% of patients, usually due to stent occlusion by further tumor growth. This article suggests strategies for patient assessment, procedure planning, and stent insertion.

A case of stenotic change from gastric candidiasis managed with temporary stent insertion

Invasive gastric Candida infection in patient with co-morbidity can cause stenotic change if it is developed at anatomically narrowing portion, such as distal antrum, pylorus, or duodenal bulb. However, proper management of benign stenosis by diffuse gastric Candidasis is still under controversy and palliative bypass surgery has several shortcomings because high risk operative group may be included in this case. Palliative placement of self-expandable metallic stent has been settled as a standard management of malignant gastric pyloric obstruction and it is expected to be applied in benign stenotic lesions due to its gradual dilation effect. We described a case of stenosis by diffuse gastric Candidasis at anastomosis of subtotal gastrectomy, which was managed by temporary placement of self-expandable metallic stent.

Carcinomatosis is not a contraindication to enteral stenting in selected patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction

BACKGROUND

Endoscopically inserted self-expandable metal stents (SEMSs) are used to palliate malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). Peritoneal disease is considered a relative contraindication to SEMS placement given the risk of multifocal obstruction.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the success of SEMSs placed in patients with GOO with carcinomatosis.

DESIGN

Retrospective review of patients who underwent SEMS placement for malignant GOO.

SETTING

Large, urban cancer center.

PATIENTS

A total of 215 patients who were scheduled for SEMS placement for GOO.

INTERVENTIONS

SEMS placement.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Technical success, clinical success, early and late SEMS failure, and complications.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in 192 of 201 patients (95.5%). Of the 9 patients who did not achieve technical success, 6 had carcinomatosis. Among the 116 patients (60%) with carcinomatosis, clinical success was achieved 94 of them (81%). Of these 94 patients, 17 (18%) required reinterventions: 4 for early SEMS failure and 13 for late SEMS failure. Among the 76 patients (40%) without carcinomatosis, clinical success was achieved in 64 of them (84%). Of these 64 patients, 17 (27%) required reinterventions: 4 for early SEMS failure and 13 for late SEMS failure. Complication rates were similar for both groups.

LIMITATIONS

This was a retrospective review with experienced clinicians selecting patients whom they thought would benefit from SEMS placement.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to evaluate the effect of carcinomatosis on the technical and clinical success of SEMSs in the palliation of malignant GOO. We found clinical outcomes comparable to those without peritoneal disease. Carcinomatosis should not be considered a contraindication to SEMS placement in selected patients with malignant GOO.

Malignant gastroduodenal obstruction: retrospective comparison of endoscopic and surgical palliative therapy

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic stenting (ES) is a minimally invasive alternative to surgical gastroenterostomy (GE) for palliation of malignant gastroduodenal obstructions. This consecutive, retrospective analysis compares the clinical outcome of all patients undergoing ES or GE in the same period.

METHODS

ES was performed at the Endoscopy Department, University Hospital Mannheim or at the Interdisciplinary Endoscopy Department, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf. GE was performed at the Surgical Department, University Hospital Mannheim. All palliative ES or GE on patients with malignant gastroduodenal obstruction without earlier gastric resections between January 2001 and April 2007 were evaluated. Main outcome measurements were ability of solid food intake (gastric outlet obstruction score), persistence of nausea and vomiting (gut function score), length of hospital stay, morbidity, mortality and re-interventions.

RESULTS

A total of 44 ES and 43 GE were performed. Nausea and vomiting--measured by means of the gut function score--persisted in significantly more patients in the GE group than in those who underwent stent placement (p = 0.0102). The gastric outlet obstruction score at discharge from the hospital revealed no significant difference in the ability of solid food intake between the groups. The hospital stay was significantly longer in the GE group (p = 0.0003). There was no significant difference in mortality and the rates of complications and re-interventions.

CONCLUSION

In this study, ES is a generally equivalent--and in several points superior--alternative to GE for palliation of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction. ES seems to be the less invasive alternative for symptomatic patients. GE has good results in patients with longer survival and can be practiced within abdominal explorations.

Antral localization worsens the efficacy of enteral stents in malignant digestive tumors

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Malignant gastric outlet obstruction can be treated by means of enteral stenting or surgical gastrojejunalanatomosis. We evaluated in a prospective and multicentre study the efficacy of the enteral stent on food intake, the quality of life impact, and the relationship between efficacy and determined clinical and technical parameters.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Seventy one patients affected by symptoms arising from gastroduodenal obstruction due to malignant tumors, with criteria of irresecability, metastatic disease or very high surgical risk, were treated by means of self expanding metal stents. We used the GOOSS index to evaluate efficacy, and the Euro Qol-5D index to evaluate quality of life.

RESULTS

Before stenting patients with GOOSS 0 and 1 were 68 (98.5%). After stenting patients with GOOSS 2 and 3 (semisolid and solid food) were 58 (84,1%) (P<.0001). The Euro Qol-5D index measured before and a month after stenting were 10.17 and 10.04 respectively (P=.6). The median survival was 91 days (9-552). The enteral stents for localised tumors in the duodenum and the gastrojejunalanastomosis were effective in 26 patients (70.2%) and 13 patients respectively (86.6%), while the enteral stents of tumors in the antrum were effective in only 5 patients (29.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

The palliative treatment of malignant gastric outlet obstruction with a uncovered metal stent produces a significant improvement of oral food intake and maintains the overall quality of life index. The antral localization is associated with a lower efficacy of the procedure.

Drainage and bypass procedures for palliation of malignant diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract

Malignant diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract are common and often diagnosed at a point when the opportunity for curative surgical resection has passed. Symptoms of luminal obstruction include nausea, vomiting, weight loss, pain, pruritus and jaundice. The median survival of patients who cannot be cured surgically is extremely short, with a duration of only a few months. Effective palliative techniques with a low morbidity and associated mortality are required. The length of hospital stay, rapid recovery and reduction in recurrent symptoms are important factors for patients and doctors to consider when planning treatment. Traditionally, surgical techniques were used, but in the last 20 years the availability of both endoscopic and interventional radiological procedures has increased. Furthermore, advances in technology such as the development of self-expanding metal stents and covered stent designs have provided more therapeutic options for the endoscopist and radiologist. Here we discuss the available treatments for the palliation of gastric outlet and biliary tract obstruction and the evidence for the respective approaches.

Self-expandable metallic stents for malignant gastric outlet obstruction

Duodenal self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) are designed for palliation and prompt relief of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). This mini-invasive endoscopic treatment is preferable to surgery due to its lower morbidity and mortality, shorter hospitalization, and earlier symptoms relief; furthermore endoscopic enteral stenting can be performed under conscious sedation, reducing the risk of general anesthesia in these already fragile patients. The stent placement technique is well established and should be performed in referral centers with adequate materials and equipment. Duodenal stents can be covered and uncovered. Nitinol stents have almost replaced other materials, being more flexible with a satisfactory axial and radial force. Common duodenal SEMS-related complications are recurrence of GOO symptoms due to stent clogging (tissue ingrowth/overgrowth and food impaction) and stent migration. These complications can be usually managed endoscopically. Perforation and bleeding are the most severe, but rare, complications. After stent placement, malignant GOO patients usually have improvement of the GOO symptoms with good resumption of fluids and solids. Choosing the most appropriate type of stent is arduous and should be done mainly in relation to the morphological aspects of the stricture. Endoscopic duodenal SEMS placement is indicated in symptomatic GOO patients suffering from unresectable malignancy or those inoperable due to advanced age or comorbidities. The absence of peritoneal carcinomatosis and multiple small bowel strictures is a key point for the clinical success of duodenal SEMS. Almost all symptomatic malignant GOO patients are candidates for the duodenal SEMS procedure; resolution of GOO, avoiding the need for a permanent naso-gastric or percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube, significantly improves the patients' quality of life and dignity, even if life expectancy is short. Endoscopic duodenal SEMS insertion, after an adequate training, is a reproducible, simple, safe, and cost-effective procedure.

Cost comparison of gastrojejunostomy versus duodenal stent placement for malignant gastric outlet obstruction

BACKGROUND

Gastrojejunostomy (GJJ) and stent placement are the most commonly used palliative treatments for malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). In a recent randomized trial, stent placement was preferred in patients with a relatively short survival and GJJ in patients with a longer survival. As health economic aspects have only been studied in general terms, we estimated the cost of GJJ and that of stent placement in such patients.

METHODS

In the SUSTENT study, patients were randomized to GJJ (n = 18) or stent placement (n = 21). Pancreatic cancer was the most common cause of GOO. We compared initial costs and costs during follow-up. For cost-effectiveness, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was calculated.

RESULTS

Food intake improved more rapidly after stent placement than after GJJ, but long-term relief of obstructive symptoms was better after GJJ. More major complications (P = 0.02) occurred and more reinterventions were performed (P < 0.01) after stent placement than after GJJ. Initial costs were higher for GJJ compared to stent placement (euro8315 vs. euro4820, P < 0.001). We found no difference in follow-up costs. Total costs per patient were higher for GJJ compared to stent placement (euro12433 vs. euro8819, P = 0.049). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of GJJ compared to stent placement was euro164 per extra day with a gastric outlet obstruction scoring system (GOOSS) >or=2 adjusted for survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Medical effects were better after GJJ, although GJJ had higher total costs. Since the cost difference between the two treatments was only small, cost should not play a predominant role when deciding on the type of treatment assigned to patients with malignant GOO (ISRCTN 06702358).

Surgical gastrojejunostomy or endoscopic stent placement for the palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (SUSTENT study): a multicenter randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Both gastrojejunostomy (GJJ) and stent placement are commonly used palliative treatments of obstructive symptoms caused by malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO).

OBJECTIVE

Compare GJJ and stent placement.

DESIGN

Multicenter, randomized trial.

SETTING

Twenty-one centers in The Netherlands.

PATIENTS

Patients with GOO.

INTERVENTIONS

GJJ and stent placement.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Outcomes were medical effects, quality of life, and costs. Analysis was by intent to treat.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients were randomized to GJJ and 21 to stent placement. Food intake improved more rapidly after stent placement than after GJJ (GOO Scoring System score > or = 2: median 5 vs 8 days, respectively; P < .01) but long-term relief was better after GJJ, with more patients living more days with a GOO Scoring System score of 2 or more than after stent placement (72 vs 50 days, respectively; P = .05). More major complications (stent: 6 in 4 patients vs GJJ: 0; P = .02), recurrent obstructive symptoms (stent: 8 in 5 patients vs GJJ: 1 in 1 patient; P = .02), and reinterventions (stent: 10 in 7 patients vs GJJ: 2 in 2 patients; P < .01) were observed after stent placement compared with GJJ. When stent obstruction was not regarded as a major complication, no differences in complications were found (P = .4). There were also no differences in median survival (stent: 56 days vs GJJ: 78 days) and quality of life. Mean total costs of GJJ were higher compared with stent placement ($16,535 vs $11,720, respectively; P = .049 [comparing medians]). Because of the small study population, only initial hospital costs would have been statistically significant if the Bonferroni correction for multiple testing had been applied.

LIMITATIONS

Relatively small patient population.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite slow initial symptom improvement, GJJ was associated with better long-term results and is therefore the treatment of choice in patients with a life expectancy of 2 months or longer. Because stent placement was associated with better short-term outcomes, this treatment is preferable for patients expected to live less than 2 months. (

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN 06702358.).

Improved oral intake after palliative duodenal stenting for malignant obstruction: a prospective multicenter clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

We sought to test the hypothesis that placement of a new nitinol duodenal self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) for palliation of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction is effective and safe in allowing patients to tolerate an oral diet.

METHODS

In a prospective multicenter study, SEMSs (Duodenal WallFlex, Boston Scientific) were placed to alleviate gastroduodenal obstruction in inoperable patients without the ability to tolerate solid food. The primary study end point was improvement in oral intake monitored according to the 4-point Gastric Outlet Obstruction Scoring System (GOOSS) up to 24 weeks after stent placement.

RESULTS

Forty-three patients received SEMSs, which were successfully deployed on the first attempt in 41 cases (95%) and the second attempt in two (5%). Within 1 day and 7 days after SEMS placement, 52% and 75% of patients, respectively, benefited from a GOOSS increase > or =1. Resumption of solid food intake (GOOSS 2-3) was attained by 56% of patients within 7 days and 80% by 28 days. Of the patients attaining GOOSS 2-3, 48% remained on solid food until death or last follow-up. Device-related adverse events included stent occlusion/malfunction in 9% of patients and perforation in 5% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Duodenal WallFlex stent placement promptly improves oral intake in a majority of inoperable patients with malignant gastroduodenal obstruction. In approximately half the patients achieving GOOSS 2-3, the capacity for solid food intake endures until death or last follow-up.

Treatment of malignant gastric outlet obstruction with endoscopically placed self-expandable metal stents

Malignant gastroduodenal obstruction can occur in up to 20% of patients with primary pancreatic, gastric or duodenal carcinomas. Presenting symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal distention, pain and decreased oral intake which can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and poor quality of life. Endoscopic stent placement has become the primary therapeutic modality because it is safe, minimally invasive, and a cost-effective option for palliation. Stents can be successfully deployed in the majority of patients. Stent placement appears to lead to a shorter time to symptomatic improvement, shorter time to resumption of an oral diet, and shorter hospital stays as compared with surgical options. Recurrence of the obstructive symptoms resulting from stent occlusion, due to tumor ingrowth or overgrowth, can be successfully treated with repeat endoscopic stent placement in the majority of the cases. Both endoscopic stenting and surgical bypass are considered palliative treatments and, to date, no improvement in survival with either modality has been demonstrated. A tailored therapeutic approach, taking into consideration patient preferences and involving a multidisciplinary team including the therapeutic endoscopist, surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation therapist, and interventional radiologist, should be considered in all cases.

Feasibility of self-expandable metallic stent plus chemotherapy for metastatic gastric cancer with pyloric stenosis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Self-expandable metallic stent placement is accepted as palliative therapy for advanced gastric cancer with gastric outlet obstruction, but data are lacking for chemotherapy after self-expandable metallic stent insertion. This study retrospectively compared results between surgery plus chemotherapy and stenting plus chemotherapy for metastatic gastric cancer with pyloric stenosis.

METHODS

Subjects comprised 26 patients who received chemotherapy after surgery or endoscopic stenting for metastatic gastric cancer with pyloric stenosis between April 2000 and December 2007 in four Japanese hospitals. Patients were categorized into two groups: 15 patients who received chemotherapy after surgery for pyloric stenosis (Surgery group); and 11 patients who received chemotherapy after self-expandable metallic stent placement for pyloric stenosis (Stent group).

RESULTS

Median survival time and median time to treatment failure were 284 days and 226 days in the Surgery group and 337 days and 247 days in the Stent group, respectively. No significant differences were noted between survival and time to treatment failure. No significant differences were found in median oral intake rate (Surgery, 93.1%; Stent, 93.2%) or median hospital stay rate (Surgery, 24.6%; Stent, 23.7%) during survival. Response rate was 45.5% in the Surgery group and 50% in the Stent group, with no significant difference. Likewise, no significant differences were noted between groups for frequencies of toxicity or complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results suggest that chemotherapy after stenting is as effective and safe as chemotherapy after surgery. Stents may replace surgery in combination therapy with chemotherapy for metastatic gastric cancer with gastric outlet obstruction.

Malignant gastric outlet obstruction managed by endoscopic stenting: a prospective single-centre study

OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic stenting for malignant gastric outlet obstruction was chosen as the primary strategy by which to palliate this complication, which is dominated by weight loss and anorexia. Advanced upper gastrointestinal tract cancers present late and life expectancy is limited. Only smaller multicentre studies point to endoscopic stenting as superior to surgery in terms of clinical outcome and cost.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty-five consecutive patients with gastric outlet obstruction as a result of advanced upper GI-tract malignancy were enrolled in accordance with the intention-to-treat principle. All patients were offered endoscopic stenting. Oral intake before and after stenting was assessed using the gastric outlet obstruction score system (GOOSS). Various lengths of duodenal Hanaro self-expanding nitinol stents were delivered through a therapeutic endoscope. Outcome criteria were successful deployment, clinical effect, length of stay in hospital, survival, need for re-intervention and complications.

RESULTS

Forty-one patients (91%) were successfully stented. The mean pre-procedure GOOSS improved significantly from 0.39 (95% CI 0.22-0.56) to 2.29 (95% CI 2.01-2.58) after stenting (p<0.0001). Twenty-six patients (63%) improved GOOSS at least one point, whereas 5 patients (12%) did not change GOOSS at all. Mean length of hospital stay was 13 days (95% CI 9-17 days). Mean survival was 121 days (95% CI 62-181 days). Two patients (4%; numbers 6 and 19) sustained perforation without fatalities. Three patients (7%) had stent migration. Procedure-related mortality was zero.

CONCLUSIONS

Palliative stenting for advanced malignant upper GI-tract tumours at a tertiary Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Unit is a safe, feasible and effective alternative to surgical bypass with a short hospital stay and prompt improvement of food intake.

A systematic review of methods to palliate malignant gastric outlet obstruction

BACKGROUND

The traditional approach to palliating patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) has been open gastrojejunostomy (OGJ). More recently endoscopic stenting (ES) and laparoscopic gastrojejunostomy (LGJ) have been introduced as alternatives, and some studies have suggested improved outcomes with ES. The aim of this review is to compare ES with OGJ and LGJ in terms of clinical outcome.

METHOD

A systematic literature search and review was performed for the period January 1990 to May 2008. Original comparative studies were included where ES was compared with either LGJ or OGJ or both, for the palliation of malignant GOO.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria (10 retrospective cohort studies, two randomised controlled trials and one prospective study). Compared with OGJ, ES resulted in an increased likelihood of tolerating an oral intake [odds ratio (OR) 2.6, p = 0.02], a shorter time to tolerating an oral intake (mean difference 6.9 days, p < 0.001) and a shorter post-procedural hospital stay (mean difference 11.8 days, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between 30-day mortality, complication rates or survival. There were an inadequate number of cases to quantitatively compare ES with LGJ.

CONCLUSION

This review demonstrates improved clinical outcomes with ES over OGJ for patients with malignant GOO. However, there is insufficient data to adequately compare ES with LGJ, which is the current standard for operative management. As these conclusions are based on observational studies only, future large well-designed randomised controlled trials (RCTs) would be required to ensure the estimates of the relative efficacy of these interventions are valid.

Treatment of malignant gastric outlet obstruction with stents: an evaluation of the reported variables for clinical outcome

Background

Malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is commonly seen in patients with advanced gastric-, pancreatic-, duodenal, hepatobiliary or metastatic malignancies. Ten to 25% of patients with pancreatic cancer will develop duodenal obstruction during the course of the disease. Duodenal stenting with self-expandable metal stents is an alternative treatment to surgical bypass procedures. Our aim was to review the published literature regarding treatment of malignant GOO with stents to reveal whether the information provided is sufficient to evaluate the clinical effects of this treatment

Methods

A literature search from 2000 – 2007 was conducted in Pub Med, Embase, and Cochrane library, combining the following search terms: duodenal stent, malignant duodenal obstruction, gastric outlet obstruction, SEMS, and gastroenteroanastomosis.

All publications presenting data with ≥ 15 patients and only articles written in English were included and a review focusing on the following parameters were conducted: 1) The use of graded scoring systems evaluating clinical success; 2) Assessment of Quality of life (QoL) before and after treatment; 3) Information on stent-patency; 4) The use of objective criteria to evaluate the stent effect.

Results

41 original papers in English were found; no RCT's. 16 out of 41 studies used some sort of graded scoring system. No studies had objectively evaluated QoL before or after stent treatment, using standardized QoL-questionnaires, 32/41 studies reported on stent patency and 9/41 performed an oral contrast examination after stent placement. Objective quantitative tests of gastric emptying had not been performed.

Conclusion

Available reports do not provide sufficient relevant information of the clinical outcome of duodenal stenting. In future studies, these relevant issues should be addressed to allow improved evaluation of the effect of stent treatment.

Laparoscopic pancreatic surgery: what now and what next?

In recent years, improved laparoscopic skill sets have expanded surgical management of pancreatic disease to encompass pancreatic resection, tumor enucleation, debridement, and drainage. With the aid of radiologically guided drainage catheters, necrosectomy for acute pancreatitis can be delayed and accomplished laparoscopically in a select patient population. Pancreatic pseudocysts from chronic pancreatitis can now be approached via minimally invasive strategies, including emerging combined laparoscopic procedures and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery. It is clear that laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy is possible in experienced hands; pancreatic neoplasms in the body and tail are more suitable for laparoscopic procedures because distal pancreatic resection requires no reconstruction of the biliary or enteric tract. Laparoscopic staging of pancreatic tumors has decreased as preoperative radiographic imaging becomes more sensitive. Similarly, laparoscopic palliative procedures have decreased because of the emergence of other minimally invasive options for relieving gastric outlet obstruction and biliary obstruction. Nonetheless, major advances in minimally invasive pancreatic surgery will continue as technology and skill sets advance.

Laparoscopic Gastrojejunostomy in Patients with Obstruction of the Gastric Outlet Secondary to Advanced Malignancies

Surgical palliation is an important therapeutic goal in patients with gastric outlet obstruction from cancer. The use of laparoscopic approaches for this condition has not been well studied. Our objective is to compare surgical outcomes of laparoscopic and open gastrojejunostomies in patients with gastric outlet obstruction secondary to advanced malignancies. We did a retrospective review of 20 patients who underwent a palliative gastrojejunostomy as their primary surgical procedure. There were 10 patients in the laparoscopic group and 10 patients in the open one. We identified no significant difference between groups in mean surgery time (116 vs 116 minutes) ( P = 0.99), blood loss (23 vs 142 mL) ( P = 0.19), or length of stay (8 vs 14 days) ( P = 0.14). We also identified no difference in median time to tolerate a regular diet (7 vs 8 days) ( P = 0.49) and median survival (11.2 vs 9.0 months) ( P = 0.83). Delayed gastric emptying was the most common complication occurring in four patients. There is no detectable difference in surgical outcomes between laparoscopic and open gastrojejunostomies in the management of patients with obstruction of the gastric outlet secondary to cancer. Laparoscopic gastrojejunostomy is a safe and feasible operation in this setting

Enteral stents for malignancy: a report of 46 consecutive cases over 10 years, with critical review of complications

BACKGROUND

Current management of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) includes surgical diversion or enteral stent placement for unresectable cancer. We analyzed the long-term results, predictive factors of outcomes, and complications associated with enteral stents with focus on their management.

METHODS

Between 1997 and 2007, 46 patients with malignant GOO underwent placement of self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) for palliation. Patients were captured prospectively after 2001 and followed until complication or death. Patency, management of complications, and long-term survival were analyzed.

RESULTS

Forty-six patients had a mean survival of 152 +/- 235 days and a mean SEMS patency rate of 111 +/- 220 days. SEMS patency rates of 98%, 74%, and 57% at 1, 3, and 6 months were seen. Thirteen patients presented with obstruction and included two SEMS migration, two early occlusion, one fracture, four malignant ingrowth, and four with delayed clinical failure. Interventions included seven endoscopic revisions with three SEMS replacements. Six had percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy with jejunal arm placed. Two patients eventually underwent surgical bypass. Two patients required surgery for complications including delayed duodenal perforation and aortoenteric fistula.

CONCLUSIONS

SEMS effectively palliate gastric outlet obstructions that result from upper gastrointestinal malignancies. Their benefits offset potential complications or malfunctions, when a pluridisciplinary approach is adopted.

Clinical outcomes and patency of self-expanding metal stents in patients with malignant upper gastrointestinal obstruction

This study was performed to evaluate clinical outcomes and factors associated with patency of self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) in patients with malignant upper gastrointestinal (UGI) obstruction. In 83 patients with malignant UGI obstruction, 118 SEMS placements were performed. Obstruction sites were esophagus/gastro-esophageal junction (GEJ) and gastric outlet (GO) in 41 and 42 patients, respectively. Technical success was achieved in 99.2% and clinical success in 90.5%, with no procedure-related complications. Re-obstruction and migration occurred in 38.1% during a mean follow-up of 137 days; both occurred significantly more often with GO than esophageal/GEJ obstruction (49.2% vs 23.9%). Patency rates of esophageal/GEJ obstruction were 93.5, 78.1 and 67.0% at 30, 90 and 180 days, respectively, and were significantly higher than those of GO obstruction-71.7, 51.8 and 32.5%. Palliative chemotherapy or radiation therapy was not associated with stent patency. Endoscopic SEMS placement is a safe and effective palliative treatment for malignant UGI obstruction, and complications or stent patency differed according to obstruction site.

Palliative antecolic isoperistaltic gastrojejunostomy: a randomized controlled trial comparing open and laparoscopic approaches

Gastric outlet obstruction is a common, often preterminal, event for patients with inoperable neoplasms of the distal stomach, duodenum, and biliopancreatic area. It can be surgically managed by open or laparoscopic gastrojejunostomy. This study aimed to compare the results of open and laparoscopic palliative gastrojejunostomy for patients with gastric outlet obstruction resulting from inoperable neoplasms. A total of 24 patients were randomized prospectively to undergo laparoscopic (12 patients) or open (12 patients) palliative laterolateral antecolic isoperistaltic gastrojejunostomy. All the procedures were completed as planned. The mean duration of surgery was not significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.75). The mean intraoperative blood loss was significantly less after laparoscopic gastrojejunostomy (LGJ) (p = 0.0001). Time to oral solid food intake was longer after open gastrojejunostomy (OGJ) (p = 0.04). Two patients in the OGJ group experienced postoperative delayed gastric empting, whereas no patients in the LGJ group experienced such a complication (p = 0.04). The mean postoperative stay was shorter in the LGJ group, but the difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.65). No readmissions were registered after a minimum follow-up period of 2 months. The findings show that LGJ is a safe, feasible, and effective alternative to OGJ. However, because the current data involved only a small number of patients, large studies still are required for further evaluation of the this operation's effectiveness.

Experience of surgical morbidity after palliative surgery in patients with gastric carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Indications for palliative surgery in gastric carcinoma (GC) are controversial. Our aim was to describe the results of palliative surgery in GC in terms of operative morbidity and survival.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with GC, who were divided into three groups: resection with microscopic residual disease (R1), palliative resection with macroscopic residual disease (R2), and gastrojejunostomy. Comparisons were tested with analysis of variance (ANOVA) or chi(2) test, and the Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-two patients were included in the study: 21 had R1, 71 had R2, and 40 had gastrojejunostomy. Surgical morbidity was recorded in 4 patients (19%), 23 patients (32.4%), and 1 patient (2.5%) in each of the three groups, respectively (P = 0.001). Operative mortality occurred in 6 patients (8.5%) from the R2 group and in 1 (2.5%) patient from the gastrojejunostomy group (P = 0.406). Median survivals of the R1, R2, and gastrojejunostomy groups were 22.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 16.4-29.3), 12.4 (95% CI, 9.01-15.8) months, and 6.4 months (95% CI, 0-14.6), respectively (P = 0.078)

CONCLUSION

R1 resections and gastrojejunostomy were associated with low surgical morbidity and mortality, unlike R2 resection; in this group, surgical morbidity and mortality was high. Therefore, the benefit of palliative resection in the presence of extensive residual disease should be balanced against the risk of surgical morbidity.

Gastrojejunostomy versus stent placement in patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction: a comparison in 95 patients

AIM

Gastrojejunostomy (GJJ) and duodenal stent placement are the most commonly used palliative treatment modalities for gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). In this retrospective study, we compared GJJ and stent placement with regard to medical effects.

METHODS

Medical records of 95 patients who had undergone palliative treatment between 1994 and 2006 in a Dutch university hospital, were reviewed. Study outcomes were improvement of food intake, complications, persistent and recurrent symptoms, re-interventions, hospital stay, and survival.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients were referred for duodenal stent placement and 42 patients underwent GJJ. There were no differences in technical and clinical success and the incidence of minor and early major complications and survival. Food intake improved more rapidly after stent placement than GJJ (P = 0.01). The time to late major complications, recurrent obstructive symptoms and re-intervention was significantly shorter after stent placement than GJJ (P = 0.004, 0.002, and 0.004, respectively). Hospital stay was also shorter after stent placement than GJJ (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that stent placement is associated with better short-term outcomes and GJJ with better long-term outcomes. A large randomized controlled trial is however needed to systematically compare stent placement with GJJ with regard to medical effects, quality of life and costs.

Palliative management of gastric cancer

Advanced gastric cancer and its palliative treatment have a long and interesting history. Today, gastric adenocarcinoma is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Unfortunately, many cases are not diagnosed until late stages of disease, which underscores the importance of the palliative treatment of gastric cancer. Palliative care is best defined as the active total care of patients whose disease is not responsive to curative treatment. Although endoscopy is the most useful method for securing the diagnosis of gastric adenocarcinoma, computed tomography may be useful to assess local and distant disease. The main indication for the institution of palliative care is the presence of advanced gastric cancer for which curative treatment is deemed inappropriate. The primary goal of palliative therapy of gastric cancer patients is to improve quality, not necessarily length, of life. Four main modalities of palliative therapy for advanced gastric cancer are discussed: resection, bypass, stenting, and chemotherapy. The choice of modality depends on a variety of factors, including individual patient prognosis and goals, and should be made on case-by-case basis. Future directions include the discovery and development of serum or stool tumor markers aimed at prevention, improving prognostication and stratification, and increasing awareness and education.

Morbidity-Associated Factors after Gastrojejunostomy for Malignant Gastric Outlet Obstruction

Palliative care of malignant gastric outlet obstruction symptoms is critical for improved quality of life. We reviewed 66 consecutive patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction who underwent palliative gastrointestinal bypass. The objective was to analyze morbidity and mortality-associated factors of this surgical procedure. Surgical morbidity and mortality were 39 per cent and 31 per cent, respectively. Reintervention was necessary in 16.6 per cent of cases. The only variable associated with surgical mortality was a Karnofsky score less than 80 (P = 0.02). Median survival of patients was 4 months (range, 2.11–5.9 months). Variables associated with shorter survival rates were an advanced stage of the disease and a Karnofsky score less than 80. Nine of 45 (20%) patients who survived after the gastrointestinal bypass surgery were unable to tolerate a normal diet. Palliative gastrojejunostomy in patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction is associated with high morbidity and mortality; it is necessary to improve nonsurgical options such as endoscopic stenting.

Endoscopic evaluation and palliation of pancreatic adenocarcinoma: current and future options

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To analyze the role of endoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. New developments, including molecular analysis of endoscopic tissue samples and injection of antitumor agents, are discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Endoscopic ultrasound is superior to multidetector computed tomography for detection of smaller than 3-cm pancreatic tumors, and for T staging, while they are equivalent for nodal staging and assessment of resectability. Molecular analysis of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration samples has the potential to improve cancer detection. Placement of biliary self-expanding metal stents prior to Whipple resection appears to be an option to reduce stent obstruction and allow neo-adjuvant therapy. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage is a new approach to patients who failed to have a biliary stent placed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Contrast-enhanced endoscopic ultrasound may be useful to differentiate focal inflammation from pancreatic carcinoma. Optical coherence tomography was shown to distinguish nonneoplastic from neoplastic main pancreatic duct tissue. Finally, endoscopic ultrasound-guided interstitial brachytherapy and injection of therapeutic agents into tumors have shown exciting preliminary results.

SUMMARY

Endoscopic approaches for diagnosis and palliation of pancreatic adenocarcinoma are rapidly expanding. These new techniques show promise in the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of pancreatic malignancy.

Significance of gastrectomy as palliative surgery for gastric carcinoma with pyloric stenosis

We conducted a clinicopathological study of cases of gastric carcinoma with pyloric stenosis and examined treatment outcomes and the prognosis of cases of stage IV gastric carcinoma with pyloric stenosis and the validity of gastrectomy as palliative surgery in these cases. The outcomes of 49 surgeries for gastric carcinoma with pyloric stenosis were compared with those of 671 surgeries for gastric carcinoma without pyloric stenosis. The diagnosis of pyloric stenosis was confirmed with both upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and an upper gastrointestinal barium series. The frequency of pyloric stenosis in patients with gastric carcinoma was 7.3%. Serosal invasion was observed in about 70% of all cases. Of these cases, 53.1% were classified as stage IV. The resection rate was 73.5%, and the resection was classified as curative in 44.9% of cases. The incidence of complications after surgery in cases of stage IV gastric carcinoma was 47.1%. The median survival time was significantly greater in patients undergoing resection group than in those not undergoing resection (p=0.025). Most patients with gastric cancer and pyloric stenosis can be considered to have stage IV disease, which is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality; thus, prevention of complications, and therefore, avoidance of gastrectomy is recommended in such patients. Nonetheless, in this study, gastrectomy was shown to improve prognoses in these patients.

Palliation in patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction with a newly designed enteral stent: a multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Through-the-scope (TTS) stents facilitate palliative enteral stent placement. However, most TTS stents are braided, a characteristic that has been associated with significant foreshortening and relatively frequent migration.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate clinical experience with a new woven enteral stent in the treatment of gastric outlet obstruction.

DESIGN

From January 2005 to August 2006, patients with unresectable malignant gastric outlet obstruction were offered stent placement with a new woven stent.

SETTING

Three referral hospitals in Japan.

PATIENTS

Thirty-seven consecutive patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction.

INTERVENTIONS

A newly designed enteral stent was placed by using the TTS placement technique.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Palliation efficacy and safety of the new stents.

RESULTS

Stent placement was successful in 36 of 37 patients (technical success, 97%). Thirty-four patients were able to tolerate oral intake without obstructive symptoms (clinical success, 94.4%). Complications occurred in 16.2% of patients, comprising 2 cases of primary stent dysfunction, 1 perforation, 1 GI bleeding, 1 stent obstruction, and 1 biliary stent dysfunction. No migration was seen during the median follow-up period of 68 days.

LIMITATIONS

Small sample size and relatively brief follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

A newly developed enteral stent with higher flexibility and less foreshortening offers comparable clinical outcome to existing stents and a lower frequency of complications, including migration.

Initial and long-term outcome after palliative surgical drainage of 269 patients with malignant biliary obstruction

AIMS

This study aimed to analyse the current outcome after palliative surgical drainage of malignant biliary obstruction.

METHOD

From 1992 to 2003, perioperative parameters and the incidence and indications of readmissions were analysed in 269 patients who underwent a palliative biliary bypass for periampullary carcinoma.

RESULTS

Hospital mortality occurred in seven patients and median postoperative stay was 10 days. Anastomotic leakage occurred in three patients and intraabdominal haemorrhage in eight patients. Overall 75 patients experienced a complication. Nine patients underwent a relaparotomy during initial hospital admission. Overall, 142 patients were readmitted, 13 for indications related to the biliary bypass, 11 for surgery-related indications. Twenty-five patients were readmitted for radiochemotherapy, 112 for progressive disease and 23 for indications not related to the disease. Median survival was 7.5 months and the 3-year survival 3%. Survival was significantly lower in patients with metastases and in those who underwent elective bypass for gastric outlet obstruction.

CONCLUSION

Current hospital mortality after palliative biliary bypass as well as readmission rates for complications related to the biliary bypass or surgical procedure are low. Surgical biliary bypass is a safe and effective palliative treatment for patients with malignant biliary obstruction.

Stent versus gastrojejunostomy for the palliation of gastric outlet obstruction: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Gastrojejunostomy (GJJ) is the most commonly used palliative treatment modality for malignant gastric outlet obstruction. Recently, stent placement has been introduced as an alternative treatment. We reviewed the available literature on stent placement and GJJ for gastric outlet obstruction, with regard to medical effects and costs.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed by searching PubMed for the period January 1996 and January 2006. A total of 44 publications on GJJ and stents was identified and reported results on medical effects and costs were pooled and evaluated. Results from randomized and comparative studies were used for calculating odds ratios (OR) to compare differences between the two treatment modalities.

RESULTS

In 2 randomized trials, stent placement was compared with GJJ (with 27 and 18 patients in each trial). In 6 comparative studies, stent placement was compared with GJJ. Thirty-six series evaluated either stent placement or GJJ. A total of 1046 patients received a duodenal stent and 297 patients underwent GJJ. No differences between stent placement and gastrojejunostomy were found in technical success (96% vs. 100%), early and late major complications 7% vs. 6% and 18% vs. 17%, respectively) and persisting symptoms (8% vs. 9%). Initial clinical success was higher after stent placement (89% vs. 72%). Minor complications were less frequently seen after stent placement in the patient series (9% vs. 33%), however the pooled analysis showed no differences (OR: 0.75, p = 0.8). Recurrent obstructive symptoms were more common after stent placement (18% vs. 1%). Hospital stay was prolonged after GJJ compared to stent placement (13 days vs. 7 days). The mean survival was 105 days after stent placement and 164 days after GJJ.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that stent placement may be associated with more favorable results in patients with a relatively short life expectancy, while GJJ is preferable in patients with a more prolonged prognosis. The paucity of evidence from large randomized trials may however have influenced the results and therefore a trial of sufficient size is needed to determine which palliative treatment modality is optimal in (sub)groups of patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction.

Endoscopic palliation of pancreatic cancer

Endoscopic approaches have revolutionized the palliation of advanced pancreatic cancer. The ideal management consists of a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, endoscopists, radiologists, and oncologists. Concurrent advances in the fields of interventional radiology and laparoscopic surgical oncology should be readdressed and directly compared with endoscopic approaches in randomized controlled trials. Exciting novel endoscopic techniques are being developed and evaluated; however, these approaches require further validation with randomized clinical trials to determine the safety and efficacy when compared with more traditional approaches.

Minimally invasive treatment of pancreatic disease

Although open surgical procedures remain the standard for both benign and malignant diseases of the pancreas, in recent years a wide variety of surgical procedures performed on the pancreas have been completed laparoscopically. This article reviews the application of minimally invasive surgery to the management of both benign and malignant diseases of the pancreas.

Palliation of Malignant Biliary and Duodenal Obstruction with Combined Metallic Stenting

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of palliation of malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction with combined metallic stenting under fluoroscopy guidance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 9 patients (6 men and 3 women) who underwent biliary and duodenal stenting was performed. The mean age of patients was 61 years (range: 42-80 years). The causes of obstruction were pancreatic carcinoma in 7 patients, cholangiocellular carcinoma in one, and duodenal carcinoma in the other. Biliary and duodenal stents were placed simultaneously in 4 patients. In other 5 patients dudodenal stents were placed after biliary stenting when the duodenal obstruction symptoms have developed. In two patients duodenal stents were advanced via transgastric approach.

RESULTS

Technical success rate was 100 %. After percutaneous biliary drainage and stenting bilirubin levels decreased to normal levels in 6 patients and in remaining 3 patients mean reduction of 71% in bilirubin levels was achieved. Tumoral ingrowth occurred in one patient and percutaneous biliary restenting was performed 90 days after the initial procedure. Of the 9 patients, 6 patients were able to tolerate solid diet, whereas 2 patients could tolerate liquid diet and one patient did not show any improvement. Mean survival periods were 111 and 73 days after biliary and duodenal stenting, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Combined biliary and duodenal stent placement which can be performed under fluoroscopic guidance without assistance of endoscopy is feasible and an effective method of palliation of malignant biliary and duodenal obstructions. If transoral and endoscopic approaches fail, percutaneous gastrostomy route allows duodenal stenting.

Endoscopic stenting versus surgical gastroenterostomy for palliation of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

We attempted to elucidate the current status of endoscopic self-expanding metal stents for palliation of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction in comparison with surgical gastroenterostomy.

METHODS

Original articles and abstracts published from January 1990 to September 2006 were searched in Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register databases. Clinical appraisal and data extraction were independently conducted by two reviewers. Statistical analysis was performed by meta-analysis using a random effects model. Weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to analyze continuous variables. Odds ratios with 95% CI were calculated for dichotomous variables.

RESULTS

The outcomes of 307 procedures from nine studies were analyzed. Endoscopic stenting was found to be associated with higher clinical success (P = 0.007), a shorter time from the procedure to starting oral intake (P < 0.001), less morbidity (P = 0.02), lower incidence of delayed gastric emptying (P = 0.002), and a shorter hospital stay (P < 0.001) than surgical gastroenterostomy. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the analysis of 30-day mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic stenting may be a feasible alternative to surgery for the palliation of inoperable malignant gastroduodenal obstruction, with a high clinical success and low morbidity rate. Additional well-designed randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are expected to further reinforce this conclusion.

Predicting unresectability in pancreatic cancer patients: the additive effects of CT and endoscopic ultrasound

BACKGROUND

A standardized method for predicting unresectability in pancreatic cancer has not been defined. We propose a system using CT and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to assess patients for unresectable pancreatic cancers.

METHODS

Radiologic and surgical data from 101 patients who underwent exploration/resection for pancreatic cancer were reviewed. Chi-squares were used to identify five factors significantly correlated with unresectability, which were incorporated into a scoring system (one point for each factor).

RESULTS

The resectability rates were 84, 56, and 10% for patients with scores of 0, 1, and 2, respectively. All four patients with three risk factors for unresectability had unresectable tumors. The most accurate results were achieved in patients evaluated with both CT and EUS.

DISCUSSION

This scoring system stratifies pancreatic cancer patients into three groups: (1) patients with a score of zero (likely to undergo successful resection), (2) patients with a score of one (likely to benefit from laparoscopic staging prior to attempting resection), and (3) patients with a score of two or higher (low probability of successful resection, who may be better served by neoadjuvant therapy).

Palliative stenting for late malignant gastric outlet obstruction

Malignant gastric outlet obstruction (MGO) is a late complication of pancreatobiliary and gastric cancers. Although surgical gastrojejunostomy provides good palliation, many of these patients may be nonoperative candidates or underwent previous extensive resection such as a Whipple procedure. Recently, endoscopically placed self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) have been used to palliate MGO. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of SEMS for palliation of late MGO. Medical records of patients with endoscopic placement of SEMS for palliation of MGO were reviewed. Results showed that 30 patients with MGO had SEMS placed for late gastroduodenal (n = 20) or jejunal (n = 10) obstruction. Twenty-one patients (70%) had previous surgery. Return to oral feeding was observed in 90% of patients who presented with recurrent obstruction after prior bypass surgery and in 88% of nonoperative patients in whom SEMS were placed as the primary therapy for obstruction. No major complications were observed, and median survival after SEMS was 4.1 months (0.1 to 10.5 months). SEMS also did not interfere with biliary drainage. In conclusion, endoscopically placed SEMS are safe and provide good palliation for late malignant gastroduodenal and jejunal strictures and are an excellent complement to recurrent obstruction after surgical gastrojejunostomy.