Natural history of pancreatitis-induced splenic vein thrombosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its incidence and rate of gastrointestinal bleeding

Two-step complete splenic artery embolization for the management of symptomatic sinistral portal hypertension

BACKGROUND

Sinistral portal hypertension (SPH) is a rare clinical syndrome. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical outcomes and safety of splenic artery embolization (SAE) in the treatment of SPH.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 39 SPH patients who underwent SAE treatment between August 2009 and May 2021. The cases had esophageal, gastric, or ectopic varices detected by endoscopy or enhanced CT, with symptoms or signs of upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and/or postprandial fullness. Clinical symptom improvement rate, complications, and symptomatic recurrence rate were observed and analyzed after treatment.

RESULTS

All the procedures were performed successfully. Of all patients, 17 received the 2-step complete SAE procedure, 19 received only the first step of the 2-step protocol (i.e., partial splenic embolization [PSE] procedure), and the remaining three received the 1-step complete SAE procedure. After the procedures, the symptoms completely disappeared in all patients, and the main complications were post-embolization syndromes, with 27 patients (69.2%) developing a low-grade fever, 24 (61.5%) developing abdominal pain and 4 (10.3%) developing nausea or mild vomiting. During the prolonged follow-up, varicose veins were gradually reduced as detected by enhanced CT; liver function parameters and platelet count remained in the normal range. Only one patient who underwent PSE treatment developed upper GI rebleeding 7 months after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Two-step complete SAE is a safe and feasible procedure for the treatment of symptomatic SPH.

Chemoprophylaxis to Prevent Deep Venous Thrombosis in Patients Hospitalized for Pancreatitis: Beneficial or Harmful?

Introduction: Vascular complications in pancreatitis generally occur in the form of hemorrhage or thrombosis. Pancreatitis resulting in splanchnic thrombosis has been well studied, but the cause of this correlation has not been studied in the current era of increasing anticoagulant use for deep venous thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. Hemorrhagic pancreatitis and peri-pancreatic bleeding are also known phenomena encountered in relation to pancreatitis, but these risks are not well established in the setting of chemical prophylaxis for DVT.

Objectives: Our objective was to identify whether chemical DVT prophylaxis in pancreatitis harms the patient by increasing the risk of hemorrhagic conversion of pancreatitis or peri-pancreatic hemorrhage or if it is beneficial by preventing splanchnic venous thrombosis in the abdominal vasculature that surrounds the pancreas.

Methods: We undertook a retrospective chart review with approval from the Institutional Review Board on patients who were hospitalized for or developed pancreatitis during their hospital stay from April 2014 to July 2015. We reviewed the charts for imaging suggestive of venous thrombosis or the development of intra-abdominal hemorrhage at admission during hospitalization and within 30 days after hospitalization. We also reviewed the methods of DVT prophylaxis to identify any correlation with the risk of hemorrhage or thrombosis. A bedside index of severity in acute pancreatitis score was used within 24 hours of admission to calculate the severity of the patients’ pancreatitis. The data collected were analyzed for descriptive statistics, correlation using Pearson’s coefficient, and multivariate regression analysis using Microsoft Excel and SPSS Inc. Released 2009. PASW Statistics for Windows, Version 18.0. Chicago: SPSS Inc.

Results: This study included 389 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 74.6% of patients received chemical prophylaxis, mostly low molecular weight heparin, and 18.5% of patients were not on chemical or mechanical means of DVT prophylaxis. Only 12 patients (3%) had complications related to thrombosis and hemorrhage. Seven patients had splanchnic venous thrombosis, one had a hemorrhagic conversion of pancreatitis, three had a peri-pancreatic hemorrhage, and one had both the hemorrhagic conversion of pancreatitis and peri-pancreatic hemorrhage. Ten patients out of 12 patients had complications before admission, and nine of the 12 patients were on chemical prophylaxis. Pearson’s coefficient showed no statistically significant correlation between the incidence of complications and the use of chemical DVT prophylaxis. Multivariate analysis showed no specific variable that increased the risk of complications.

Conclusions: Our study showed that chemoprophylaxis for DVT in patients hospitalized for acute pancreatitis is neither harmful by causing hemorrhagic conversion of pancreatitis, peri-pancreatic hemorrhage nor beneficial by preventing splanchnic venous thrombosis.

Vascular Complications in Pediatric Pancreatitis: A Case Series

We reviewed INSPPIRE (International Study Group of Pediatric Pancreatitis: In Search for a Cure) database for splanchnic venous thrombosis or arterial pseudoaneurysms to determine the incidence, risk factors and outcomes of peripancreatic vascular complications in children with acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) or chronic pancreatitis (CP). Of 410 children with diagnostic imaging studies, vascular complications were reported in five (1.2%); two had ARP, three CP. The vascular events were reported during moderately severe or severe acute pancreatitis (AP) in four, mild AP in one. Venous thrombosis occurred in four, arterial pseudoaneurysm (left gastric artery) in one. Two patients with venous thrombosis were treated with anticoagulant, one achieved recanalization (splenic vein). In two patients who did not receive anticoagulants, one re-canalized. No adverse effects were observed with anticoagulants. The child with pseudoaneurysm underwent aneurysmal coiling. Anti-coagulants appear to be safe in children with acute pancreatitis, their long-term benefit needs to be further investigated.

Outcomes in Endoscopic and Operative Transgastric Pancreatic Debridement

OBJECTIVES

Select patients with anatomically favorable walled off pancreatic necrosis may be treated by endoscopic (Endo-TGD) or operative (OR-TGD) transgastric debridement (TGD). We compared our experience with these 2 approaches.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Select necrotizing pancreatitis (NP) patients are suitable for TGD which may be accomplished endoscopically or surgically. Limited experience exists contrasting these techniques exists.

METHODS

Patients undergoing Endo-TGD and OR-TGD at a single, high-volume pancreatic center between 2008 and 2019 were identified from a prospective database. Patient characteristics, procedural details, and outcomes of these 2 groups were compared.

RESULTS

Among 498 NP patients undergoing necrosis intervention, 160 (32%) had TGD: 59 Endo-TGD and 101 OR-TGD. The groups were statistically similar in age, comorbidity, pancreatitis etiology, necrosis anatomy, pancreatitis severity, and timing of TGD from pancreatitis insult. OR-TGD required 1.1 ± 0.5 and Endo-TGD 3.0 ± 2.0 debridements/patient. Fewer hospital readmissions and repeat necrosis interventions, and shorter total inpatient length of stay were observed in OR-TGD patients. New-onset organ failure [Endo-TGD (13%); OR-TGD (13%); P = 1.0] was similar between groups. Hospital length of stay after TGD was significantly longer in patients undergoing Endo-TGD (13.8 ± 20.8 days) compared to OR-TGD (9.4 ± 6.1 days; P = 0.047). Mortality was 7% in Endo-TGD and 1% in OR-TGD (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Operative and endoscopic transgastric debridement achieve necrosis resolution with different temporal and procedural profiles. Clear multidisciplinary communication is essential to determine appropriate approach to individual necrotizing pancreatitis patients.

Vascular Complications in Patients with Chronic Pancreatitis

INTRODUCTION

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a long-standing progressive inflammation of the pancreas, which can lead to a variety of vascular complications, such as splanchnic venous thrombosis (VT) and arterial pseudoaneurysm (PA). There is a lack of studies on vascular complications in Scandinavian countries.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of medical records of patients with CP identified from the Karolinska University Hospital database between 2003 and 2018. A total of 394 patients with definite CP were included in the study.

RESULTS

There were 33 patients with vascular complications, with a median age of 62 (IQR 55-72) years. The cumulative incidence of vascular events was 3.2% at 5 years. Thirty patients had isolated VT, whereas three patients had PA (7.6% and 0.8%, respectively). Isolated splenic vein thrombosis was most common (53.3%), followed by a combination with other splanchnic veins. PA was found in the splenic artery in two patients and in the left gastric artery in one patient. Varices were present in three (10%) patients; variceal bleeding was not recorded. All patients had asymptomatic splanchnic VT, most with chronic VT with developed collaterals (83.3% had abdominal collateral vessels). Nearly two-thirds of patients with VT (63.3%) received no treatment, whereas 11 (36.6%) were treated with anticoagulants. Pseudocysts and alcoholic etiology of CP are risk factors for vascular complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The cumulative incidence of vascular complications was 3.2% at 5 years. Splanchnic VT is more common than PA. Patients were asymptomatic with no variceal bleeding, explained by well-developed collateral vessels and strong study inclusion criteria.

A Rare Case of Rapidly Transforming Pancreatitis With Life-Threatening Complications and Multi-Organ Failure

Acute pancreatitis affects approximately 50,000-80,000 Americans each year. Eighty percent of those cases are related to alcohol use or biliary stones. It has traditionally been thought of as a self-limiting disease, in which the pancreas fully recovers with little or no intervention. The occurrence of complications, particularly infectious ones, characterize the most severe forms of acute pancreatitis and is associated with high mortality. We present a case of acute pancreatitis with transformation into necrotizing and hemorrhagic pancreatitis complicated with splenic vein thrombosis (SVT), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), acute kidney injury (AKI), and later, fungemia.

Splenic Artery Embolisation for the Emergency Treatment of Sinistral Portal Hypertension: A Systematic Review

Objectives Sinistral portal hypertension (SPH) is caused by increased pressure on the left portal system secondary to splenic vein stenosis or occlusion and may lead to gastric varices. The definitive management of SPH is splenectomy, but this is associated with significant mortality and morbidity in the acute setting. In this systematic review, we investigated the efficacy and safety of splenic artery embolisation (SAE) in managing refractory variceal bleeding in patients with SPH.

Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE and Embase databases. A qualitative analysis was chosen due to heterogeneity of the studies.

Results Our search yielded 339 articles, 278 of which were unique. After initial screening, 16 articles relevant to our search remained for full text review. Of these, 7 were included in the systematic review. All 7 papers were observational, 6 were retrospective. Between them they described 29 SAE procedures to control variceal bleeding. The technical success rate was 100% and there were no cases of rebleeding during follow up. The most common complication was post-embolisation syndrome. Four major complications occurred, two resulting in death. These deaths were the only 30-day mortalities recorded and were in patients with extensive comorbidities.

Conclusions Although there is a distinct lack of randomized controlled studies comparing SAE to other treatment modalities, it appears to be safe and effective in treating hemorrhage secondary to SPH.

The in situ near-total pancreatectomy (LIVOCADO procedure) for end-staged chronic pancreatitis

PURPOSE

Total pancreatectomy for severe pain in end-stage chronic pancreatitis may be the only option, but with vascular involvement, this is usually too high risk and/or technically not feasible. The purpose of the study was to present the clinical outcomes of a novel procedure in severe chronic pancreatitis complicated by uncontrollable pain and vascular involvement.

METHODS

We describe an in situ near-total pancreatectomy that avoids peripancreatic vascular dissection (Livocado procedure) and report on surgical and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

The Livocado procedure was carried out on 18 (3.9%) of 465 patients undergoing surgery for chronic pancreatitis. There were 13 men and 5 women with a median (IQR) age of 48.5 (42.4-57) years and weight of 60.7 (58.0-75.0) kg. All had severe pain and vascular involvement; 17 had pancreatic parenchymal calcification; the median (IQR) oral morphine equivalent dose requirement was 86 (33-195) mg/day. The median (IQR) maximal pain scores were 9 (9-10); the average pain score was 6 (IQR 4-7). There was no peri-operative or 90-day mortality. At a median (IQR) follow-up of 32.5 (21-45.75) months, both maximal and average pain scores were significantly improved post-operatively, and at 12 months, two-thirds of patients were completely pain free. Six (33%) patients had employment pre-operatively versus 13 (72%) post-operatively (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The Livocado procedure was safe and carried out successfully in patients with chronic pancreatitis with vascular involvement where other procedures would be contraindicated. Perioperative outcomes, post-operative pain scores, and employment rehabilitation were comparable with other procedures carried out in patients without vascular involvement.

Acute Pancreatitis Induced Splenic Vein Thrombosis

Acute inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, can result in many complications ranging from acute distress respiratory syndrome to pancreatic necrosis. A relatively common vascular complication of pancreatitis is splenic vein thrombosis (SVT) due to intimal inflammation leading to platelet aggregation and thrombosis. The management of SVT with regard to anticoagulation (AC) might appear to be perplexing at first given the recommendation to withhold any sort of AC. Research studies have shown that these patients have an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding without AC. In this report, we discuss a case of hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis. During hospitalization, our patient complained of worsening abdominal pain with objective fevers and leukocytosis in which CT scan of the abdomen was significant for hemorrhagic pancreatitis with necrosis, acute SVT, and splenomegaly. The patient was managed conservatively with IV fluids, pain relief medications, and antibiotics. 

AGA Clinical Practice Update on Management of Bleeding Gastric Varices: Expert Review

Management of bleeding gastric varices (GV) presents a unique challenge for patients with portal hypertension. Despite over thirty years of diagnostic and treatment advances standardized practices for bleeding GV are lacking and unsupported by adequate evidence. There are no definitive natural history studies to help with risk assessment or prospective clinical trials to guide clinical decision making. Available literature on the natural history and management of gastric varices consists of case series, restricted cohort studies, and a few small randomized trials, all of which have significant selection biases. This review summarizes the available data and recommendations based on expert opinion on how best to diagnose and manage bleeding from gastric varices. Table 1 summarizes our recommendations.

Retrospective Comparison of Clinical Outcomes Following Splenic Vein Stenting and Splenic Arterial Embolization in Sinistral Portal Hypertension-Related Gastrointestinal Bleeding

BACKGROUND. Sinistral portal hypertension (SPH) is caused by an obstruction of the splenic vein and is a potential cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Although splenic arterial embolization (SAE) and splenic vein stenting are accepted treatment options for SPH, their outcomes have not been compared directly. OBJECTIVE. This retrospective study compared the outcomes of splenic vein stenting and SAE for SPH-related gastrointestinal bleeding. METHODS. Data of patients with SPH treated by interventional radiology between January 1, 2013, and June 1, 2019, who had at least 6 months of clinical follow-up were retrospectively identified from the electronic database at our hospital. Patients were divided into the SAE group (SAE alone), splenic vein stenting-SAE group (SAE immediately after splenic vein stenting failure using the same procedure as the SAE group), and splenic vein stenting group (successful treatment with SVS). Patients' baseline characteristics and follow-up data were retrieved, and their clinical outcomes were compared. RESULTS. Thirty-seven patients with SPH were included. We assigned 11, 12, and 14 patients to the SAE, splenic vein stenting-SAE, and splenic vein stenting groups, respectively. Rebleeding (e.g., hematemesis, melena, or both) was significantly less common (p = .01) in the splenic vein stenting group (7.1% [1/14]) than in the SAE and splenic vein stenting-SAE groups combined (47.8% [11/23]). Splenectomy to resolve rebleeding was not significantly different (p = .63) in the splenic vein stenting group (7.1% [1/14]) compared with the SAE and splenic vein stenting-SAE groups combined (17.4% [4/23]). No interventional procedure-related deaths were observed during follow-up in any group. CONCLUSION. When feasible, splenic vein stenting is a safe and effective treatment of SPH-related gastrointestinal bleeding that appears to better prevent rebleeding than SAE. CLINICAL IMPACT. Splenic vein stenting should be recommended over SAE for the treatment of SPH-related upper gastrointestinal bleeding when possible.

Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis in Acute Pancreatitis and Its Consequences

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a serious vascular complication that can occur in patients with acute pancreatitis. We assessed the incidence of SVT and its relationship with acute pancreatitis (AP) and associated complications. We carried out a retrospective analysis of medical histories from patients hospitalized with AP in a single surgical center. Histories were acquired from patients with abdominal and pelvic computed tomography scans performed between the 2nd and 3rd day of hospitalization. We assessed the impact and extent of thrombosis over the disease course. We found a strong positive correlation (Cramer’s V coefficient = 0.34) between SVT and disease severity. Mortality in the study group was 7.2% (8 patients) of which 5 patients (62.5%) were diagnosed with SVT. We observed an increased incidence of death among patients with thrombosis, with results approaching significance (P = 0.056). In our study, we found that SVT has a negative effect on the course of AP and is associated with more severe disease and increased mortality.

Thromboembolic Complications in the First Year After Acute Pancreatitis Diagnosis

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to quantify the prevalence of venous thromboembolic (VTE) events in patients with pancreatitis requiring hospitalization and its impact on outcomes.

METHODS

Adult patients admitted from 2011 to 2018 for pancreatitis were identified. Every admission for pancreatitis in the first year after diagnosis was evaluated for a VTE (pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, or mesenteric vessel thrombosis) within 30 days of discharge. Characteristics of patients who developed a thromboembolic event were compared with those who did not.

RESULTS

There were 4613 patients with pancreatitis identified, 301 of whom developed a VTE (6.5%). Patients who developed a VTE were more likely to be male (P < 0.01), older (P = 0.03), and have an underlying coagulopathy (P < 0.01). Those with VTEs were more likely to die (27% vs 13%, P < 0.01), have more readmissions for pancreatitis (1.7 vs 1.3, P < 0.01), longer length of stay (16 vs 5.5 days, P < 0.01), and be discharged to acute or long-term rehabilitation rather than home (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Acute pancreatitis requiring hospitalization is associated with high risk of VTE in the first year after diagnosis. Thromboembolic disease is associated with worse morbidity and mortality.

Pancreas Study Group, Chinese Society of Gastroenterology, Chinese Medical Association. Practice guidance for diagnosis and treatment of pancreatitis-related splanchnic vein thrombosis (Shenyang, 2020)

Splanchnic vein thrombosis is a severe complication of pancreatitis. To date, no consensus over the management of pancreatitis-related splanchnic vein thrombosis has been established. Based on the consensus of multidisciplinary experts, this practice guidance systematically reviewed the epidemiology, anatomy, pathophysiology, risk assessment and clinical presentations of splanchnic vein thrombosis, and formulated a diagnosis and treatment strategy for providing guidance in clinical practice for this disease.

Falling Through the Cracks: The Need to Include Acute Pancreatitis in Risk Assessment Models for Acute Deep Venous Thrombosis

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition caused by an insult to the pancreas. Pancreatitis is associated with local and systemic complications such as splenic vein thrombosis and systemic inflammatory response syndromes (SIRS), respectively. Pancreatitis increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) through a combination of increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and systemic vascular injury. However, DVT and pulmonary embolism remain under-recognized and underappreciated complications of acute pancreatitis as they fall through the cracks in the commonly used venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk assessment model. We therefore propose that VTE prophylaxis needs to be considered by all clinicians when admitting and evaluating patients with acute pancreatitis and that acute pancreatitis needs to be included on the various VTE risk assessment calculators as it is a significant risk factor for the development of VTE.

Prospective Analysis of the Mechanisms Underlying Ineffective Deep Vein Thrombosis Prophylaxis in Necrotizing Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Patients with necrotizing pancreatitis (NP) have the highest rate of venous thromboembolism (VTE) of any hospitalized patient (57%). We hypothesized that VTE prophylaxis might be inadequate in the setting of this profound inflammatory disease and that early detection of deep vein thrombosis would limit pulmonary embolism.

STUDY DESIGN

All patients with NP treated at a single center between August 2018 and December 2019 were enrolled in prospective, weekly VTE screening, including 4-extremity duplex ultrasound. Routine chemoprophylaxis included low-molecular-weight or unfractionated heparin. Peak serum anti-factor Xa concentration was measured during weekly screening (goal prophylaxis 0.2 to 0.4 IU/mL).

RESULTS

Eighty-five patients with NP underwent a total of 201 screening events (mean 2.4 per patient). VTE developed in 55 patients (65%), including splanchnic vein thrombosis in 41 patients (48%) and extremity deep vein thrombosis (eDVT) in 32 patients (38%). Extremity DVT was diagnosed a mean ± SD of 44 ± 30 days after NP onset. Symptomatic pulmonary embolism was prevented in all patients diagnosed with eDVT and no contraindication to anticoagulation (0 of 29). Prophylactic anti-factor Xa concentration was only achieved in 21% (12 of 57 screening events); no eDVTs developed in patients achieving prophylactic anti-factor Xa concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with NP, identification of eDVT by screening ultrasound permits early treatment and prevents symptomatic pulmonary embolism. Fixed dosing of chemical prophylaxis is inadequate in most patients with NP and likely contributes to the mechanism of increased VTE in NP.

Efficacy and Safety of Early Systemic Anticoagulation for Preventing Splanchnic Thrombosis in Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis

OBJECTIVES

Splanchnic venous thrombosis (SVT) is a relevant complication in patients with acute necrotizing pancreatitis. So far, no specific treatment for preventing development of SVT exists, and the effect of systemic anticoagulation (SAC) is unclear.

METHODS

Patients with acute necrotizing pancreatitis admitted to our center within 7 days from onset of abdominal pain were screened. In the historic group, during which period, most patients received no SAC. Patients in the study group received SAC therapy considering the risk of deep vein thrombosis and SVT. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of SVT.

RESULTS

Splenic vein was involved in 71% of all 84 SVT patients. Compared with the historic cohort, patients who received SAC experienced lower incidence of SVT (P < 0.001), especially for splenic venous thrombosis (P = 0.002). Patients in the study group also showed lower mortality (P = 0.04) and incidence of new-onset organ failure (P = 0.03). The incidence of bleeding shows no statistical significance between 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Application of SAC seems to reduce the incidence of SVT and improve clinical outcomes without increasing the risk of bleeding. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm our findings.

Multiple extra-splanchnic venous thromboses - an unusual vascular complication of acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreas with variable clinical presentations. Splanchnic venous thrombosis is a well-known vascular complication of AP and commonly present as thrombosis of the splanchnic venous system: splenic vein (SplV), portal vein (PV) and superior mesenteric vein (SMV), either separately or in combinations. Involvement of extra-splanchnic vessels is rare and associated with morbidity and mortality. Vascular complications are late phenomena and usually associated with local complications of AP, namely acute fluid collections, necrotizing pancreatitis and walled-off pancreatic necrosis. Pathogenesis of venous thrombosis is multifactorial in which pancreatic inflammation and systemic inflammatory response play a key role. At present, there are no consensus guidelines on treatment and use of anticoagulation for venous thrombosis in the setting of AP. Limited literature suggests the use of anticoagulation in presence of PV with or without SMV thrombosis and extrasplanchnic vessel involvement. Literature on extra-splanchnic vessels involvement in acute pancreatitis is sparse. Here we present two cases with multiple extra-splanchnic vessels involvement and their management.

Vascular complications of chronic pancreatitis: A tertiary center experience

INTRODUCTION

Vascular complications such as venous thrombosis (VT) and pseudoaneurysm are not uncommon in patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP). The aim of this study to was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for vascular complications in patients with CP.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of patients with CP presenting from January 2002 to August 2019 was performed. Venous thrombosis and pseudoaneurysm were identified using radiological imaging, and their risk factors were identified using multivariate Cox-proportional hazards.

RESULTS

Of 1363 patients with CP, 166 (12.2%) had vascular complications. Isolated VT was present in 132, pseudoaneurysm in 17, and both in 17 patients. They were more commonly seen in males and alcoholic CP (ACP), and less commonly in patients with pancreatic atrophy and calcification. It involved the vessels in the closest proximity to the pancreas, VT most commonly involving the splenic vein whereas pseudoaneurysm most commonly involved the splenic artery. Alcoholic CP [odds ratio (OR) 2.1, p = 0.002], pseudocyst (OR 4.6, p < 0.001) and inflammatory head mass (OR 3.1, p = 0.006) were independent risk factors for VT, whereas ACP (OR 3.49, p = 0.006) and pseudocyst (OR 3.2, p = 0.002) were independent risk factors for pseudoaneurysm. Gastrointestinal bleed occurred in 3.5% patients, and more commonly in patients with pseudoaneurysm than VT (64.7% vs 15.9%), and in patients with ACP in comparison to other etiologies (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Vascular complications are a common complication of CP, VT being more frequent than pseudoaneurysm. Pseudocyst and ACP are independent risk factors for the development of vascular complications.

Anticoagulant therapy in the treatment of splanchnic vein thrombosis associated to acute pancreatitis: a 3-year single-centre experience

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a possible complication of acute pancreatitis (AP). There are no precise guidelines on the use of anticoagulant therapy (AT) in these patients. The aim of the study was to determine the safety and the efficacy of AT in AP-associated SVT. Two hundred twenty-one patients were retrospectively and consecutively enrolled from the Pancreatic Outpatient Clinic of the "A. Gemelli" hospital. Patients had a diagnosis of AP and a diagnostic imaging to evaluate whether they had or not SVT. Twenty-seven out of 221 AP patients had SVT (12.21%) and AT therapy was administered to 16 patients (59.3%), for 5.2 ± 2.2 months. A therapeutic dose of low molecular weight heparin was administered (100 UI/kg b.i.d.) at the diagnosis, with fondaparinux 7.5 mg/day, or vitamin K antagonist, or the novel direct oral anti-coagulants, upon discharge. The presence of SVT resulted significantly associated to male sex (p = 0.002). The recanalization rates were 11/16 (68.7%) in patients who received AT, and 3/11 (27.3%) in patients who did not receive it. There was a significant difference between the recanalization rates with and without AT (p = 0.03, OR 5.87). No SVT recurrence was registered during follow-up. No treated patient developed haemorrhagic complications after AT. No deaths were recorded, either in the group undergoing AT or in the one that was not. In conclusion, AT in AP-associated SVT appears to be safe and effective; yet prospective clinical trials are needed to confirm our results.

The continuum of complications in survivors of necrotizing pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing pancreatitis survivors develop complications beyond infected necrosis that often require invasive intervention. Remarkably few data have cataloged these late complications after acute necrotizing pancreatitis resolution. We sought to identify the types and incidence of complications after necrotizing pancreatitis.

DESIGN

An observational study was performed evaluating 647 patients with necrotizing pancreatitis captured in a single-institution database between 2005 and 2017 at a tertiary care hospital. Retrospective review and analysis of newly diagnosed conditions attributable to necrotizing pancreatitis was performed. Exclusion criteria included the following: death before disease resolution (n = 57, 9%) and patients lost to follow-up (n = 12, 2%).

RESULTS

A total of 578 patients were followed for a median of 46 months (range, 8 months to 15 y) after necrotizing pancreatitis. In 489 (85%) patients 1 or more complications developed and included symptomatic disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome (285 of 578, 49%), splanchnic vein thrombosis (257 of 572, 45%), new endocrine insufficiency (195 of 549, 35%), new exocrine insufficiency (108 of 571, 19%), symptomatic chronic pancreatitis (93 of 571, 16%), incisional hernia (89 of 420, 21%), biliary stricture (90 of 576, 16%), chronic pain (44 of 575, 8%), gastrointestinal fistula (44 of 578, 8%), pancreatic duct stricture (30 of 578, 5%), and duodenal stricture (28 of 578, 5%). During the follow-up period, a total of 340 (59%) patients required an invasive intervention after necrotizing pancreatitis resolution. Invasive pancreatobiliary intervention was required in 230 (40%) patients.

CONCLUSION

Late complications are common in necrotizing pancreatitis survivors. A broad variety of problems manifest themselves after resolution of the acute disease process and often require invasive intervention. Necrotizing pancreatitis patients should be followed lifelong by experienced clinicians.

Risk factors for sinistral portal hypertension and related variceal bleeding in patients with chronic pancreatitis

OBJECTIVES

Sinistral portal hypertension (SPH) is an uncommon complication of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and can result in severe gastrointestinal bleeding. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and the potential risk factors for SPH and related gastrointestinal variceal bleeding in patients with CP.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with SPH due to CP admitted to our hospital from July 2014 to June 2019 in this case-control study. Patients with CP without SPH were randomly selected as controls during the study period (case: control  =  1:2). The characteristics, medical history, course of CP, characteristics associated with SPH, and follow-up evaluations of the patients were documented in detail. The prevalence rate of SPH in patients with CP and related gastrointestinal bleeding was calculated. Risk factors for SPH and related variceal bleeding were analyzed using univariate or multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The prevalence of SPH was 2.7% (89/3358) in patients with CP. Independent risk factors for SPH included alcohol consumption (P = 0.030), history of acute pancreatitis (P = 0.010), diabetes mellitus (P < 0.001), and pseudocysts (P < 0.001). Overall 17 (19.1%) patients suffered from related gastrointestinal bleeding. Between the bleeding and non-bleeding groups, there were significant differences in the types of CP, existence of stones, gastric varices diagnosed before bleeding, splenomegaly and hypersplenism by univariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

SPH is a rare complication of CP that is associated with a relatively low risk of variceal bleeding.

Incisional Hernia After Orthotopic Liver Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Incisional hernia (IH) is a well-known complication of orthotopic liver transplantation. Despite wide recognition of the impact of this problem, the incidence remains imprecisely known.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews databases were searched from their inception to November 2017 for abstracts documenting IH after orthotropic liver transplantation (OLT). The primary endpoint of this study was incidence of IH, secondary endpoints were time to hernia and recurrence. Three reviewers independently graded abstracts for inclusion in this review. Heterogeneity in combining data was assumed prior to pooling. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to estimate percentages and 95% CIs.

RESULTS

After a review of 77 abstracts, 18 studies were graded as relevant. The methodological quality of studies was assessed with a minimum Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine level of 2B. These represent a cohort of 981 patients with IH after OLT reported in the literature. A meta-analysis of studies meeting inclusion criteria shows mean incidence of 15.1% (CI 12.1%-18.2%). Aggregate recurrence rate reported in the literature is 12.4% (CI 4.3%-20.5%). Overall reported time to IH after OLT was 42.9 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Although reported incidences of IH after OLT vary widely across studies, an overall incidence of 15.1% is reported. This is a relatively late complication after transplantation. Recurrence of hernia after initial repair is 12.4% within this patient population.

Acute Pancreatitis Imaging in MDCT: State of the Art of Usual and Unusual Local Complications. 2012 Atlanta Classification Revisited

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory disease in which most common etiologies are biliary lithiasis and alcoholism. Acute pancreatitis can be classified into 2 groups according to its morphologic features: interstitial edematous pancreatitis and necrotizing acute pancreatitis. The prognosis of this group of diseases and its complications varies significantly and contrast-enhanced computed tomography is the imaging study of choice for the diagnosis and detection of complications. . In this review, we aim to summarize the changes introduced in the revised Atlanta classification and describe other usual and unusual local complications of acute pancreatitis that are not analyzed in that classification. We will also describe early detection signs and provide an accurate interpretation of complications on contrast-enhanced computed tomography that will lead to prompt management decisions which can reduce the morbidity and mortality of these patients.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Pancreatic Disease-Related Portal Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a rare type of portal hypertension, which occurs due to obstruction, stenosis, or thrombosis within the splenic vein. Pancreatic diseases are the most common etiology of LSPH. This study is aimed at reporting our experiences and discussing the presentation, management, and prognosis of LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed five patients who were diagnosed with LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases at our department. We collected the demographic information, history, comorbidities, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), images, and outcome data.

RESULTS

Three elderly patients (>60 years old) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of whom one underwent laparoscopic radical distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, one received chemotherapy, and another one chose conservative management due to multiple systemic metastases. Two younger patients (<40 years old) were diagnosed with acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Four of these five included patients presented with hematemesis and/or melena at our admission. All patients had gastric varices, and one of them also had esophageal varices. One elderly patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer underwent endoscopic variceal treatment as a rescue therapy but finally died of refractory gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding; another younger patient with chronic pancreatitis died of massive GI bleeding; and the remaining three patients survived at their last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSPH should be seriously taken into consideration in patients with pancreatic diseases who develop upper GI bleeding. Clinicians should individualize the treatment strategy of LSPH according to the patients' clinical conditions and nature of pancreatic diseases.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Pancreatic Disease-Related Portal Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a rare type of portal hypertension, which occurs due to obstruction, stenosis, or thrombosis within the splenic vein. Pancreatic diseases are the most common etiology of LSPH. This study is aimed at reporting our experiences and discussing the presentation, management, and prognosis of LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed five patients who were diagnosed with LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases at our department. We collected the demographic information, history, comorbidities, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), images, and outcome data.

RESULTS

Three elderly patients (>60 years old) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of whom one underwent laparoscopic radical distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, one received chemotherapy, and another one chose conservative management due to multiple systemic metastases. Two younger patients (<40 years old) were diagnosed with acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Four of these five included patients presented with hematemesis and/or melena at our admission. All patients had gastric varices, and one of them also had esophageal varices. One elderly patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer underwent endoscopic variceal treatment as a rescue therapy but finally died of refractory gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding; another younger patient with chronic pancreatitis died of massive GI bleeding; and the remaining three patients survived at their last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSPH should be seriously taken into consideration in patients with pancreatic diseases who develop upper GI bleeding. Clinicians should individualize the treatment strategy of LSPH according to the patients' clinical conditions and nature of pancreatic diseases.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Pancreatic Disease-Related Portal Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a rare type of portal hypertension, which occurs due to obstruction, stenosis, or thrombosis within the splenic vein. Pancreatic diseases are the most common etiology of LSPH. This study is aimed at reporting our experiences and discussing the presentation, management, and prognosis of LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed five patients who were diagnosed with LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases at our department. We collected the demographic information, history, comorbidities, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), images, and outcome data.

RESULTS

Three elderly patients (>60 years old) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of whom one underwent laparoscopic radical distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, one received chemotherapy, and another one chose conservative management due to multiple systemic metastases. Two younger patients (<40 years old) were diagnosed with acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Four of these five included patients presented with hematemesis and/or melena at our admission. All patients had gastric varices, and one of them also had esophageal varices. One elderly patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer underwent endoscopic variceal treatment as a rescue therapy but finally died of refractory gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding; another younger patient with chronic pancreatitis died of massive GI bleeding; and the remaining three patients survived at their last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSPH should be seriously taken into consideration in patients with pancreatic diseases who develop upper GI bleeding. Clinicians should individualize the treatment strategy of LSPH according to the patients' clinical conditions and nature of pancreatic diseases.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Pancreatic Disease-Related Portal Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a rare type of portal hypertension, which occurs due to obstruction, stenosis, or thrombosis within the splenic vein. Pancreatic diseases are the most common etiology of LSPH. This study is aimed at reporting our experiences and discussing the presentation, management, and prognosis of LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed five patients who were diagnosed with LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases at our department. We collected the demographic information, history, comorbidities, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), images, and outcome data.

RESULTS

Three elderly patients (>60 years old) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of whom one underwent laparoscopic radical distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, one received chemotherapy, and another one chose conservative management due to multiple systemic metastases. Two younger patients (<40 years old) were diagnosed with acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Four of these five included patients presented with hematemesis and/or melena at our admission. All patients had gastric varices, and one of them also had esophageal varices. One elderly patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer underwent endoscopic variceal treatment as a rescue therapy but finally died of refractory gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding; another younger patient with chronic pancreatitis died of massive GI bleeding; and the remaining three patients survived at their last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSPH should be seriously taken into consideration in patients with pancreatic diseases who develop upper GI bleeding. Clinicians should individualize the treatment strategy of LSPH according to the patients' clinical conditions and nature of pancreatic diseases.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Pancreatic Disease-Related Portal Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a rare type of portal hypertension, which occurs due to obstruction, stenosis, or thrombosis within the splenic vein. Pancreatic diseases are the most common etiology of LSPH. This study is aimed at reporting our experiences and discussing the presentation, management, and prognosis of LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed five patients who were diagnosed with LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases at our department. We collected the demographic information, history, comorbidities, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), images, and outcome data.

RESULTS

Three elderly patients (>60 years old) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of whom one underwent laparoscopic radical distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, one received chemotherapy, and another one chose conservative management due to multiple systemic metastases. Two younger patients (<40 years old) were diagnosed with acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Four of these five included patients presented with hematemesis and/or melena at our admission. All patients had gastric varices, and one of them also had esophageal varices. One elderly patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer underwent endoscopic variceal treatment as a rescue therapy but finally died of refractory gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding; another younger patient with chronic pancreatitis died of massive GI bleeding; and the remaining three patients survived at their last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSPH should be seriously taken into consideration in patients with pancreatic diseases who develop upper GI bleeding. Clinicians should individualize the treatment strategy of LSPH according to the patients' clinical conditions and nature of pancreatic diseases.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Pancreatic Disease-Related Portal Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a rare type of portal hypertension, which occurs due to obstruction, stenosis, or thrombosis within the splenic vein. Pancreatic diseases are the most common etiology of LSPH. This study is aimed at reporting our experiences and discussing the presentation, management, and prognosis of LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed five patients who were diagnosed with LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases at our department. We collected the demographic information, history, comorbidities, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), images, and outcome data.

RESULTS

Three elderly patients (>60 years old) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of whom one underwent laparoscopic radical distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, one received chemotherapy, and another one chose conservative management due to multiple systemic metastases. Two younger patients (<40 years old) were diagnosed with acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Four of these five included patients presented with hematemesis and/or melena at our admission. All patients had gastric varices, and one of them also had esophageal varices. One elderly patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer underwent endoscopic variceal treatment as a rescue therapy but finally died of refractory gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding; another younger patient with chronic pancreatitis died of massive GI bleeding; and the remaining three patients survived at their last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSPH should be seriously taken into consideration in patients with pancreatic diseases who develop upper GI bleeding. Clinicians should individualize the treatment strategy of LSPH according to the patients' clinical conditions and nature of pancreatic diseases.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Pancreatic Disease-Related Portal Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a rare type of portal hypertension, which occurs due to obstruction, stenosis, or thrombosis within the splenic vein. Pancreatic diseases are the most common etiology of LSPH. This study is aimed at reporting our experiences and discussing the presentation, management, and prognosis of LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed five patients who were diagnosed with LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases at our department. We collected the demographic information, history, comorbidities, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), images, and outcome data.

RESULTS

Three elderly patients (>60 years old) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of whom one underwent laparoscopic radical distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, one received chemotherapy, and another one chose conservative management due to multiple systemic metastases. Two younger patients (<40 years old) were diagnosed with acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Four of these five included patients presented with hematemesis and/or melena at our admission. All patients had gastric varices, and one of them also had esophageal varices. One elderly patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer underwent endoscopic variceal treatment as a rescue therapy but finally died of refractory gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding; another younger patient with chronic pancreatitis died of massive GI bleeding; and the remaining three patients survived at their last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSPH should be seriously taken into consideration in patients with pancreatic diseases who develop upper GI bleeding. Clinicians should individualize the treatment strategy of LSPH according to the patients' clinical conditions and nature of pancreatic diseases.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Pancreatic Disease-Related Portal Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) is a rare type of portal hypertension, which occurs due to obstruction, stenosis, or thrombosis within the splenic vein. Pancreatic diseases are the most common etiology of LSPH. This study is aimed at reporting our experiences and discussing the presentation, management, and prognosis of LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed five patients who were diagnosed with LSPH secondary to pancreatic diseases at our department. We collected the demographic information, history, comorbidities, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), images, and outcome data.

RESULTS

Three elderly patients (>60 years old) were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, of whom one underwent laparoscopic radical distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, one received chemotherapy, and another one chose conservative management due to multiple systemic metastases. Two younger patients (<40 years old) were diagnosed with acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Four of these five included patients presented with hematemesis and/or melena at our admission. All patients had gastric varices, and one of them also had esophageal varices. One elderly patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer underwent endoscopic variceal treatment as a rescue therapy but finally died of refractory gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding; another younger patient with chronic pancreatitis died of massive GI bleeding; and the remaining three patients survived at their last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSPH should be seriously taken into consideration in patients with pancreatic diseases who develop upper GI bleeding. Clinicians should individualize the treatment strategy of LSPH according to the patients' clinical conditions and nature of pancreatic diseases.

Frey Procedure Combined with Biliary Diversion for the Treatment of Chronic Pancreatitis-Related Biliary Obstruction: Impact of the Types of Diversion

BACKGROUND

Frey procedure (FP) has become the standard of treatment for patients with painful chronic pancreatitis and inflammatory head mass. Biliary diversion (BD) is necessary when there is persistent biliary obstruction after adequate head coring. The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of types of biliary diversion on short-term outcome and rates of stricture recurrence.

METHODS

All the patients, who underwent FP combined with BD between August 2007 and July 2017 in the Department of Surgical gastroenterology, Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Kolkata, India, were retrospectively reviewed. The types of BD performed were choledochojejunostomy (Group A) or opening of the CBD in the resection cavity (Group B).

RESULTS

During the study period, 36 patients underwent FP with BD. Choledochojejunostomy was performed in 21 patients and opening of the CBD in the resection cavity in 15 patients. Preoperative characteristics and early surgical outcomes were comparable except the postoperative stay which was longer in those who underwent choledochojejunostomy (p = 0.044). Pain control was similar. Over a median follow-up of 72 months, five patients in the Group B developed stricture recurrence which was significantly higher than those of Group A (p = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

Choledochojejunostomy combined with FP achieves efficient BD with a lower rate of restricture compared with opening of the CBD in the resection cavity.

Chronic Pancreatitis: Managing a Difficult Disease

Chronic pancreatitis is characterized by progressive, irreversible morphologic and functional changes that are most commonly attributed to environmental insults, particularly when there is a genetic or anatomic predisposition. Heavy alcohol use and cigarette smoking are the most common environmental risk factors, but both may be absent. Antecedent episodes of acute pancreatitis occur in about half of patients. Abdominal pain is the most common symptom and requires a tailored approach depending on the anatomic changes in the pancreas. Other clinical manifestations include diabetes mellitus, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, metabolic bone disease, pancreatic cancer, and anatomic complications. Current disease management is centered on risk factor reduction and screening for and treating disease complications. There are no current therapies to delay or retard disease progression, but there are ongoing efforts to more fully understand the natural history of chronic pancreatitis and underlying mechanisms of disease. These studies are expected to provide insights that will transform our approach to disease management and provide increased hope to patients.

Venous Thromboembolism in Necrotizing Pancreatitis: an Underappreciated Risk

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing pancreatitis (NP) is a severe systemic inflammatory process. We have observed a high incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in NP patients. However, remarkably few data exist to document the true incidence of VTE-including splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT), extremity deep venous thrombosis (eDVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE)-in NP. Therefore, we sought to determine the incidence and risk factors for VTE in NP patients.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all NP patients treated at a single academic center between 2005 and 2015. VTE diagnosis was confirmed by ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and/or ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) scan. Descriptive statistics and univariate analysis were applied where appropriate; p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Five hundred and forty-five NP patients (median age 53 years; 65% males) were reviewed. VTE was diagnosed in 312 patients (57%). SVT was found in 50%, eDVT in 16%, and PE in 6%. VTE in multiple sites was found in 22% of patients. VTE was diagnosed a median of 37 days following pancreatitis diagnosis. Seventy-nine percent of patients required at least one surgical procedure over the course of their NP. Patients requiring surgery had a DVT incidence of 58%; however, VTE was diagnosed preoperatively in 63%. Male gender, history of previous DVT, infected necrosis, development of organ failure, and development of respiratory failure were identified as risk factors for VTE (p = 0.001-0.04) by univariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Venous thromboembolism is extremely common in necrotizing pancreatitis. Regular ultrasound screening may be considered to facilitate early diagnosis in this extremely high-risk population.

Short-term surgical morbidity and mortality of distal pancreatectomy performed for benign versus malignant diseases: a NSQIP analysis

BACKGROUND/AIM

Distal pancreatectomy (DP) accounts for 25% of all pancreatic resections. Complications following DP occur in around 40% of the cases. Our aim is to analyze short-term surgical outcomes of DP based on whether the indication for resection was benign or malignant pathology, as well as the effect of the surgical approach, open versus laparoscopic on morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

We studied all patients undergoing DP from the National Surgery Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) targeted pancreatectomy participant use file from 2014 to 2016. The patients were divided into 2 groups, those who underwent DP for benign diseases (DP-B) and those who underwent DP for malignant diseases (DP-M). We performed multivariate logistic regression to evaluate the association between benign or malignant distal pancreatectomies and 30-day outcomes. We included clinically and/or statistically significant confounders into the models. We also conducted the same analysis in the subgroups of open and laparoscopic DP.

RESULTS

Three thousand five hundred and seventy-nine patients underwent distal pancreatectomy. The most common indication for surgery was malignant disease in 1894 (53%). Thirty-day mortality occurred in 0.4% of DP-B compared to 1.3% DP-M. On multivariate analysis, no significant difference was found in mortality or in the risk of pancreatic fistula between the 2 groups. Bleeding (p = 0.002) and composite morbidity (p = 0.01) were significantly higher in the DP-M group. Among composite morbidities, thromboembolism was significantly associated with DP-M (OR 2.1, p = 0.0004) only when performed with an open approach.

CONCLUSION

DP-M is associated with a significantly higher risk of post-operative bleeding, thromboembolism, and sepsis compared to DP-B but no significant increase in mortality. When further analyzing the impact of the operative approach on morbidity, there was an increased rate of post-operative thromboembolic in the DP-M group when the surgery was performed in an open manner and this increased risk was no longer statistically significant if the DP-M was performed using a minimally invasive approach.

Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for Sinistral Portal Hypertension Associated with Moderate and Severe Acute Pancreatitis: A Seven-Year Single-Center Retrospective Study

Background

This study aimed to assess the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and risk factors for sinistral portal hypertension in patients with moderate or severe acute pancreatitis.

Material/Methods

A retrospective study included 825 patients with moderate or severe acute pancreatitis. Clinical and demographic data, the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) and the Ranson scores for severity of acute pancreatitis, and the computed tomography (CT) severity index (CTSI) were evaluated. The formation of collateral vessels, bleeding, splenomegaly, hypersplenism during hospitalization or follow-up, and early anticoagulation and the occurrence of sinistral portal hypertension were evaluated.

Results

Of the 825 patients with moderate or severe acute pancreatitis, 103 patients (12.5%) developed sinistral portal hypertension. The median time to diagnosis was 8 months, and the median patient age was 39 years. The most common causes of pancreatitis were biliary (46.3%), hypertriglyceridemia (31.5%), alcohol (14.9%), and others (7.3%). Independent risk factors for sinistral portal hypertension were male gender (OR, 4.666; 95% CI, 2.54–8.572; P<0.001), recurrent acute pancreatitis (OR, 9.556; 95% CI, 5.218–17.5; P<0.001), hypertriglyceridemia (OR, 2.056; 95% CI, 1.184–3.57; P=0.001), glucose >10 mmol/L (OR, 6.965; 95% CI, 4.027–12.045; P<0.001), smoking (OR, 6.32; 95% CI, 3.544–11.269; P<0.001), and infection of walled-off necrosis (OR=1.637; 95% CI, 1.061–2.524; P=0.015). Anticoagulation during hospitalization was not significantly associated with sinistral portal hypertension.

Conclusions

Hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycemia, infection of walled-off necrosis, recurrent acute pancreatitis, and smoking were risk factors for sinistral portal hypertension, and early anticoagulation did not prevent the occurrence.

Changes in the Velocity of Blood in the Portal Vein in Mild Acute Pancreatitis-A Preliminary Clinical Study

Background and objective: Portal vein thrombosis is associated with a decrease in the main blood velocity in this vessel. While most studies examine etiological factors of portal vein thrombosis after its occurrence, we aimed to evaluate portal vessels and assess whether mild acute pancreatitis affects blood flow in the portal vein and increases the risk of thrombosis. Materials and methods: This prospective single centered follow-up study enrolled 66 adult participants. Fifty of them were diagnosed with mild acute pancreatitis based on the Revised Atlanta classification, and 16 healthy participants formed the control group. All participants were examined three times. The first examination was carried out at the beginning of the disease and the next two at three-month intervals. Blood samples were taken and color Doppler ultrasound performed the first time, whereas ultrasound alone was performed during the second and third visits. Mean and maximal blood velocities and resistivity index in the main portal vein and its left and right branches were evaluated. Results: Mean velocity of the blood flow in the main portal vein and its right and left branches was not significantly different from healthy individuals during the acute pancreatitis phase: 23.1 ± 8.5 cm/s vs. 24.5 ± 8.2 cm/s (p = 0.827); 16.4 ± 7.9 cm/s vs. 16.4 ± 8.1 cm/s (p = 1.000); and 8 ± 3.4 cm/s vs. 7.4 ± 2.5 cm/s (p = 0.826), respectively. The same was observed when comparing the maximal blood flow velocity: 67.9 ± 29 cm/s vs. 67.5 ± 21 cm/s (p > 0.05); 45.4 ± 27 cm/s vs. 44 ± 23.8 cm/s (p = 0.853); and 22.2 ± 9.8 cm/s vs. 20 ± 7.3 cm/s (p = 0.926), respectively. Changes in venous blood velocities were not significant during the follow-up period in separate study groups. Conclusions: Portal blood flow velocities do not change during mild acute pancreatitis in the inflammatory and postinflammatory periods. This observation suggests that mild acute pancreatitis does not increase the risk of portal vein thrombosis.

Role of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in local complications of acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) represents a pancreas inflammation of sudden onset that can present different degrees of severity. AP is a frequent cause of acute abdomen and its complications are still a cause of death. Biliary calculosis and alcohol abuse are the most frequent cause of AP. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are not necessary for the diagnosis of AP but they are fundamental tools for the identification of the cause, degree severity and AP complications. AP severity assessment is in fact one of the most important issue in disease management. Contrast-enhanced CT is preferred in the emergency setting and is considered the gold standard in patients with AP. MRI is comparable to CT for the diagnosis of AP but requires much more time so it is not usually chosen in the emergency scenario. Complications of AP can be distinguished in localized and generalized. Among the localized complications, we can identify: acute peripancreatic fluid collections (APFC), pseudocysts, acute necrotic collections (ANC), walled off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN), venous thrombosis, pseudoaneurysms and haemorrhage. Multiple organ failure syndrome (MOFS) and sepsis are possible generalized complications of AP. In this review, we focus on CT and MRI findings in local complications of AP and when and how to perform CT and MRI. We paid also attention to recent developments in diagnostic classification of AP complications.

Outcomes of pancreatoduodenectomy in the cirrhotic patient: risk stratification and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cirrhosis increases the risk of perioperative mortality in gastrointestinal surgery. Though cirrhosis is sometimes considered a contraindication to pancreatoduodenectomy (PD), few data are available in this patient population. The aim of the present study is to identify predictors of outcome in cirrhotic patients undergoing PD.

METHODS

Patients undergoing PD with biopsy-proved cirrhosis were evaluated. Primary endpoints were morbidity and mortality. Child score, MELD score, and radiographic evidence of portal hypertension (pHTN) were assessed for accuracy in preoperative risk stratification. A systematic review of the literature with meta-analysis was also performed to query morbidity and mortality of patients with cirrhosis reported to undergo PD.

RESULTS

Between 2005 and 2015, 36 cirrhotic patients underwent PD; three year follow-up was complete. Median Child score was 6 (range 5-10); median MELD score was 9 (range 7-18). Perioperative (90-day) mortality was 6/36. Median survival was 37 months (range 0.2-116). MELD ≥ 10 was associated with increased mortality (4/13 vs. 2/13, p = 0.004). Irrespective of Child or MELD score, those with pHTN had poor outcomes including significantly greater intraoperative blood loss, increased incidence of major complication, and length of stay. Postoperative mortality was significantly higher with pHTN (3/16 vs. 1/13, p = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Pancreatoduodenectomy may be considered in carefully selected cirrhotic patients. MELD ≥ 10 predicts increased risk of postoperative mortality. Specific attention should be afforded to patients with preoperative radiographic evidence of portal hypertension as this group experiences poor outcomes irrespective of MELD or Child score.

Prevalence of splenic vein thrombosis and risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in chronic pancreatitis patients attending a tertiary hospital in western India

Background:

Splenic vein thrombosis (SVT) is most commonly caused by acute and chronic pancreatitis (CP). Variceal gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a potentially life-threatening event in such patients. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of SVT in CP patients and the risk of variceal GI bleeding.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 187 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of CP were assessed for the presence of SVT at the gastroenterology department of a tertiary care hospital. Thirty seven patients had evidence of SVT. Patients with portal vein thrombosis or cirrhosis were excluded. Potential factors associated with SVT were assessed.

Results:

Of the 187 CP patients assessed, 37 patients (19.8%) (male 33; female 4; mean age 41.9 years) had evidence of SVT. Among patients with SVT, most common etiology of CP was alcohol abuse (70.3%). Seven patients (18.9%) with SVT presented with clinically significant upper GI bleeding. The source of GI bleeding was gastric varices in three patients (8.1%) and non-variceal source in four patients (10.8%). All three patients with gastric varices were managed by splenectomy. There were no new variceal bleeding episodes in other 33 patients (89.2%) during mean follow-up of 16.4 months. On comparison of patients with and without SVT, the factors associated with significantly higher incidence of SVT were smoking (P = 0.019, odds ratio 3.021, 95% confidence interval 1.195–7.633) and presence of pseudocyst (P = 0.008, odds ratio 3.743, 95% confidence interval 1.403–9.983). Complete resolution of SVT was seen in three patients (8.1%) after resolution of underlying pseudocyst.

Conclusion:

SVT is a common complication of CP, particularly in patients with pseudocysts and history of smoking. Most patients remain asymptomatic and the risk of variceal bleeding is low. Splenectomy is the treatment of choice in patients with variceal bleeding. Conservative approach is preferred in other patients. Resolution of pseudocysts may lead to resolution of SVT in some patients.

Venous thrombosis in unusual sites: A practical review for the hematologist

Thrombosis of unusual venous sites encompasses a large part of consultative hematology and is encountered routinely by practicing hematologists. Contrary to the more commonly encountered lower extremity venous thrombosis and common cardiovascular disorders, the various thromboses outlined in this review have unique presentations, pathophysiology, workup, and treatments that all hematologists should be aware of. This review attempts to outline the most up to date literature on cerebral, retinal, upper extremity, hepatic, portal, splenic, mesenteric, and renal vein thrombosis, focusing on the incidence, pathophysiology, provoking factors, and current recommended treatments for each type of unusual thrombosis to provide a useful and practical review for the hematologist.

Portosplenomesenteric vein thrombosis in patients with early-stage severe acute pancreatitis

AIM

To investigate the incidence and risk factors of portosplenomesenteric vein thrombosis (PSMVT) in the early stage of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).

METHODS

Patients with SAP in a tertiary care setting from January 2014 to December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. All contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) studies were reassessed and reviewed. Clinical outcome measures were compared between SAP patients with and without PSMVT in the early stage of the disease. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were sequentially performed to assess potential risk factors for the development of PSMVT in SAP patients. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated for the qualifying independent risk factors.

RESULTS

Twenty-five of the one hundred and forty (17.86%) SAP patients developed PSMVT 6.19 ± 2.43 d after acute pancreatitis (AP) onset. PSMVT was confirmed by contrast-enhanced CT. Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analyses showed that Balthazar’s CT severity index (CTSI) scores [odds ratio (OR): 2.742; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.664-4.519; P = 0.000], hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin level < 25 g/L) (OR: 32.573; 95%CI: 2.711-391.353; P = 0.006) and gastrointestinal wall thickening (OR: 4.367, 95%CI: 1.218-15.658; P = 0.024) were independent risk factors for PSMVT developed in patients with SAP. The area under the ROC curve for Balthazar’s CTSI scores was 0.777 (P = 0.000), the sensitivity was 52%, and the specificity was 93% at a cut-off value of 5.5.

CONCLUSION

High Balthazar’s CTSI scores, hypoalbuminemia and gastrointestinal wall thickening are independent risk factors for PSMVT developed in the early stage of SAP.

Presumptive non-cirrhotic bleeding esophageal varices in a dog

An 8‐year‐old male American Staffordshire terrier was admitted for evaluation of chronic episodes of ptyalism and hematemesis after exercise. Abnormalities were not detected on routine clinicopathological tests, thoracic radiography, and abdominal ultrasonography. Endoscopic examination revealed a labyrinthine network of severely distended, hemorrhagic esophageal blood vessels. Computed tomography angiography demonstrated a network of para‐esophageal vessels that communicated with the celiac artery caudally and the brachiocephalic trunk cranially, consistent with a diagnosis of non‐cirrhotic esophageal varices. This is a report of exercise, ptyalism, and hematemesis secondary to presumptive, non‐cirrhotic, bleeding esophageal varices in a dog.

Gastric varices and splenic vein obstruction during steroid treatment for autoimmune pancreatitis: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Few cases of autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) complicated by gastric varices, in the absence of splenic vein obstruction, have been described in the medical literature. The findings in this case parallel those of 3 previously described cases from Japan and support a pathologic explanation for the evolution of gastric varices in relation to early splenomegaly and the role of steroid therapy for AIP.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 50-year-old male with a history of transfusion-requiring erosive gastritis and recently diagnosed AIP on steroid therapy for 2 weeks presented with a 2-day history of lightheadedness, abdominal pain, and melena.

DIAGNOSIS

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed prominent varices in the gastric fundus. An abdominal ultrasound with Doppler demonstrated patency of the splenic, hepatic, and portal veins. Review of previous imaging revealed that the splenic vein and the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) were occluded prior to the diagnosis of AIP and steroid therapy initiation.

OUTCOME

Following resolution of hemodynamic instability through fluid resuscitation and blood transfusion, the remainder of his hospital course was uneventful. Subsequent to discontinuation of steroid therapy, he developed near total reocclusion of both the splenic vein and SMV.

LESSON

Early steroid treatment should be considered in patients with uncomplicated AIP to prevent the occlusive vascular complications that are frequently associated with the pathophysiology of this disease process.