Diverse responses to vascular disrupting agent combretastatin a4 phosphate: a comparative study in rats with hepatic and subcutaneous tumor allografts using MRI biomarkers, microangiography, and histopathology

OBJECTIVE

Differently located tumors of the same origin may exhibit diverse responses to the same therapeutics. To test this hypothesis, we compared the responses of rodent hepatic and subcutaneous engrafts of rhabdomyosarcoma-1 (R1) to a vascular disrupting agent Combretastatin A4 phosphate (CA4P).

METHODS

Twelve WAG/Rij rats, each bearing three R1 implanted in the right and left hepatic lobes and subcutaneously in the thoracic region, received CA4P intravenously at 5 mg/kg (n = 6) or solvent (n = 6). Therapeutic responses were compared interindividually and intraindividually among tumors of different sites till 48 hours after injection using in vivo MRI, postmortem digital microangiography, and histopathology.

RESULTS

MRI revealed that the subcutaneous tumors (STs) significantly increased in volume than hepatic tumors (HTs) 48 hours after CA4P (P < .05). Relative to vehicle controls and treated group at baseline, necrosis ratio, apparent diffusion coefficient, and enhancement ratio changed slightly with the STs but significantly with HTs (P < .05) after CA4P treatment. Vessel density derived from microangiography was significantly lower in STs compared to HTs without CA4P treatment. CA4P treatment resulted in decreased vessel density in HTs, while it did not affect vessel density in STs. MRI and microangiography outcomes were supported by histopathologic findings.

CONCLUSIONS

MRI and microangiography allowed quantitative comparison of therapeutic responses to CA4P in rats with multifocal tumors. The discovered diverse effects of the same drug on tumors of the same origin but different locations emphasize the presence of cancer heterogeneity and the importance of individualization of drug delivery.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection of large gastrointestinal stromal tumors in the esophagus and stomach

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), the most common mesenchymal tumors of the digestive tract with potential for malignant transformation, are mainly treated by open surgery or laparoscopic resection. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety, and feasibility of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for large-size (2-5 cm) GISTs in the esophagus and stomach.

METHODS

A total of 31 patients with large-size GISTs in the esophagus (6 patients) and stomach (25 patients) underwent ESD between September 2008 and December 2011. Demographics, clinical data, therapeutic outcomes, complications, pathological characteristics, risk classification, and follow-up outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

ESD was successfully performed in 31 patients at age of 59.06 ± 7.23 years (range: 46-74). The mean time of the procedure was 70.16 ± 16.25 min (range: 40-105). Perforation for 2-10 mm occurred in six patients (19.35%) and was endoscopically repaired with clips or nylon bands, with no conversions to open surgery. Intraoperative bleeding occurred in three patients (9.68%) and was corrected with argon plasma coagulation or hot biopsy forceps. No mortalities occurred. The mean size of the resected tumors was 2.70 ± 0.72 cm (range: 2.0-5.0). Out of the 31 patients, 24 (77.42%) were at very low risk and 7 (22.58%) were at low risk. Positive rate of CD117, DOG-1, and CD34 were 83.87%, 12.90%, and 100%, respectively. A follow up for 14.29 ± 8.99 months (range: 3-39) showed no recurrence or metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

ESD appears to be an effective, safe, and feasible treatment for large-size GISTs in the esophagus and stomach.

Surface density mapping of natural tissue by a scanning haptic microscope (SHM)

To expand the performance capacity of the scanning haptic microscope (SHM) beyond surface mapping microscopy of elastic modulus or topography, surface density mapping of a natural tissue was performed by applying a measurement theory of SHM, in which a frequency change occurs upon contact of the sample surface with the SHM sensor - a microtactile sensor (MTS) that vibrates at a pre-determined constant oscillation frequency. This change was mainly stiffness-dependent at a low oscillation frequency and density-dependent at a high oscillation frequency. Two paragon examples with extremely different densities but similar macroscopic elastic moduli in the range of natural soft tissues were selected: one was agar hydrogels and the other silicon organogels with extremely low (less than 25 mg/cm(3)) and high densities (ca. 1300 mg/cm(3)), respectively. Measurements were performed in saline solution near the second-order resonance frequency, which led to the elastic modulus, and near the third-order resonance frequency. There was little difference in the frequency changes between the two resonance frequencies in agar gels. In contrast, in silicone gels, a large frequency change by MTS contact was observed near the third-order resonance frequency, indicating that the frequency change near the third-order resonance frequency reflected changes in both density and elastic modulus. Therefore, a density image of the canine aortic wall was subsequently obtained by subtracting the image observed near the second-order resonance frequency from that near the third-order resonance frequency. The elastin-rich region had a higher density than the collagen-rich region.

Image-based response assessment of liver metastases following stereotactic body radiotherapy with respiratory tracking

Objective

To describe post-CyberKnife® imaging characteristics of liver metastases as an aid in assessing response to treatment, and a novel set of combined criteria (CC) as an alternative to response according to change in size (RECIST).

Subjects and Methods

Imaging data and medical records of 28 patients with 40 liver metastases treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) were reviewed. Tumor size, CT attenuation coefficient, and contrast enhancement of lesions were evaluated up to 2 years post SBRT. Rates of local control, progression-free survival, time to progression, and overall survival according to RECIST and CC were estimated.

Results

Complete response (CR) was 3.6% (95% CI: 0.1–18%) and 18% (95% CI: 6–37%) according to RECIST and combined criteria, respectively. Two progressive diseases and two partial responses according to RECIST were classified as CR by the combined criteria and one stable response according to RECIST was classified as progressive by CC (Stuart-Maxwell test, p = 0.012). The disease control rate was 60.7% (95% CI: 41–78%) by RECIST and 64% (95% CI: 44%–81%) by CC.

Conclusion

Use of response criteria based on change in size alone in the interpretation of liver response to SBRT may be inadequate. We propose a simple algorithm with a combination of criteria to better assess tumor response. Further studies are needed to confirm their validity.

Non-Invasive Diagnosis of Abdomino-Pelvic Masses: Role of Multimodality Imaging

Recent advances in radiology have greatly increased the ability to make highly accurate diagnosis. Biopsy of many commonly seen lesions is no longer performed as the radiological findings are pathognomonic. This gives rise to the concept of ‘virtual biopsy’, a term coined on the lines of other imaging techniques such as virtual colonoscopy. Virtual biopsy is not a new imaging technique but a new concept which refers to the use of existing imaging modalities to evaluate the morphological features of tumors and arriving at a non-invasive diagnosis with a high degree of confidence obviating the need for true biopsy. Elements of virtual biopsy have already been incorporated into some evidence-based guidelines, and it is expected that with further technological advancements, an increasing number of tumors may be diagnosed and managed accordingly. A wider acceptance of virtual biopsy could further reduce the need for invasive biopsies and its attendant costs and risks. In this review article, we use index cases to further emphasize this concept.

Small Molecule Sequential Dual-Targeting Theragnostic Strategy (SMSDTTS): from Preclinical Experiments towards Possible Clinical Anticancer Applications

Hitting the evasive tumor cells proves challenging in targeted cancer therapies. A general and unconventional anticancer approach namely small molecule sequential dual-targeting theragnostic strategy (SMSDTTS) has recently been introduced with the aims to target and debulk the tumor mass, wipe out the residual tumor cells, and meanwhile enable cancer detectability. This dual targeting approach works in two steps for systemic delivery of two naturally derived drugs. First, an anti-tubulin vascular disrupting agent, e.g., combretastatin A4 phosphate (CA4P), is injected to selectively cut off tumor blood supply and to cause massive necrosis, which nevertheless always leaves peripheral tumor residues. Secondly, a necrosis-avid radiopharmaceutical, namely ¹³¹I-hypericin (¹³¹I-Hyp), is administered the next day, which accumulates in intratumoral necrosis and irradiates the residual cancer cells with beta particles. Theoretically, this complementary targeted approach may biologically and radioactively ablate solid tumors and reduce the risk of local recurrence, remote metastases, and thus cancer mortality. Meanwhile, the emitted gamma rays facilitate radio-scintigraphy to detect tumors and follow up the therapy, hence a simultaneous theragnostic approach. SMSDTTS has now shown promise from multicenter animal experiments and may demonstrate unique anticancer efficacy in upcoming preliminary clinical trials. In this short review article, information about the two involved agents, the rationale of SMSDTTS, its preclinical antitumor efficacy, multifocal targetability, simultaneous theragnostic property, and toxicities of the dose regimens are summarized. Meanwhile, possible drawbacks, practical challenges and future improvement with SMSDTTS are discussed, which hopefully may help to push forward this strategy from preclinical experiments towards possible clinical applications.

Thermometry during coblation and radiofrequency ablation of vertebral metastases: a cadaver study

PURPOSE

To evaluate safety of coblation of simulated lytic metastases in human cadaveric vertebral bodies by measuring heat distribution during thermal tissue ablation and comparing it to radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three devices were compared: a 10 mm single-needle RFA electrode, a 20 mm array RFA electrode and the coblation device. To simulate bone metastases, a spinal tumor model was used stuffing a created lytic cavity with muscle tissue. Measuring of heat distribution was performed during thermal therapy within the vertebral body, in the epidural space and at the ipsilateral neural foramen. Eight vertebral bodies were used for each device.

RESULTS

Temperatures at heat-sensitive neural structures during coblation were significantly lower than using RFA. Maximum temperatures measured at the end of the procedure at the neural foramen: 46.4 °C (± 2.51; RFA 10 mm), 52.2 °C (± 5.62; RFA 20 mm) and 42.5 °C (± 2.88; coblation). Maximum temperatures in the epidural space: 46.8 °C (± 4.7; RFA 10 mm), 49.5 °C (± 6.48; RFA 20 mm) and 42.1 °C (± 2.5; coblation). Maximum temperatures measured within the vertebral body: 50.6 °C (± 10.48; RFA 10 mm), 61.9 °C (± 15.39; RFA 20 mm) and 54.4 °C (± 15.77; coblation).

CONCLUSION

In addition to RFA, the application of coblation is a safe method to ablate vertebral lesions with regards to heat distribution at heat-sensitive neural spots. The measured temperatures did not harbor danger of thermal damage to the spinal cord or the spinal nerves.

Vascular disrupting effect of CKD-516: preclinical study using DCE-MRI

Vascular disrupting agents (VDAs) are new class of anti-cancer drugs targeting pre-existing tumor vasculature which lead to tumor ischemia and necrosis. An innovative tubulin polymerization inhibitor, CKD-516, was recently developed as a VDA. We attempted to evaluate its tubulin destabilizing effect using immunofluorescence staining on human endothelial cells (HUVECs) and to ascertain its antivascular effect in a rabbit VX2 tumor model using dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI by measuring the changes in kinetic parameters such as K-trans and IAUGC. Immunofluorescence staining using anti-tubulin and anti-actin antibodies on HUVECs showed that CKD-516 selectively disrupted tubulin component of the endothelial cytoskeleton. Serial DCE-MRI showed a significant decrease in K-trans and IAUGC parameters from baseline at 4 h (39.9 % in K-trans; -45.0 % in IAUGC) and at 24 h (-32.2 % in K-trans; -36.5 % in IAUGC), and a significant recovery at 48 h (22.9 % in K-trans; 34.8 % in IAUGC) following administration of CKD-516 at a 0.7-mg/kg dose. When the tumors were stratified according to the initial K-trans value of 0.1, tumors with a high K-trans > 0.1 which was indicative of having well-developed pre-existing vessels, showed greater reduction in K-trans and IAUGC values. On histologic examination, the degree of necrosis of treated tumors was significantly greater than that of untreated tumors. In summary, CKD-516 is an effective VDA which results in rapid vascular shutdown by targeting the tubulin component of tumor vessels and thus leads to necrosis.

Biological effects of low-dose radiation from computed tomography scanning

PURPOSE

With the widespread use of computed tomography (CT), the risks of low-dose radiation from CT have been increasingly highlighted. This study aims to illustrate the CT-induced biological effects and analyze the potential beneficial or harmful outcomes so as to provide radiologists with reasonable advice on CT usage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The related literature was analyzed according to the topics of stochastic effect, hereditary effect, deterministic effect, accumulative injuries, hormesis and adaptive response; population epidemiology data were also analyzed.

RESULTS

CT accounts for 9% of X-ray examinations and approximately 40-67% of medical-related radiation, the dose is within the range of low-dose radiation (LDR). Two opposite viewpoints exist nowadays regarding the biological effects of CT scanning: They are either harmful or harmless. Approximately 0.6% and 1.5% of the cumulative cancer risk could be attributed to diagnostic X-rays in the UK and Germany, respectively. The probability of CT scans induced-cancer is about 0.7% and CT angiography's risk is around 0.13%. It is estimated that approximately 29,000 cancers could be related to CT scans in the USA every year. Meanwhile, another investigation of 25,104 patients who underwent 45,632 CT scans in 4 years showed that the majority of CT-induced cancers were accidents rather than certainties of frequent CT scans.

CONCLUSION

Although the LDR effects of CT are still controversial, the current problems include the high frequency-use and abuse of CT scans, the increase of radiation dose and accumulative dose in high-accuracy CT, and the poor understanding of carcinogenic risks. The underlying biological basis needs further exploring and the ratio of risks and benefits should be considered.

Prostate cancers of different zonal origin: clinicopathological characteristics and biochemical outcome after radical prostatectomy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of prostate cancer zonal origin on the biochemical outcome after radical prostatectomy, to analyze clinicopathological features of tumors arising in different zones and to test the ability of the nomogram to predict the probability of transition zone cancer at radical prostatectomy.

METHODS

Our cohort consisted of 1441 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy who did not receive neoadjuvant treatment. Clinicopathological characteristics and biochemical outcomes were compared between the groups of men with different zonal location of prostate cancer. Performance of the nomogram in predicting cancer location was evaluated with respect to discrimination and calibration.

RESULTS

The rates of positive margin were similar in men with transition zone and mixed tumors and were significantly higher than those with peripheral zone tumors. Most of the positive margins in patients with transition zone and mixed cancers were located at the apico-anterior part of the gland. On multivariate analysis, transition zone cancer location was associated with better biochemical recurrence-free survival (P = .043). The Harrel c-index of the models that did and did not include zonal origin of cancer was 0.810 and 0.807, respectively. Performance of the nomogram was poor.

CONCLUSION

The association between transition zone tumor origin and the risk of biochemical recurrence does not add important predictive value to the standard prognostic factors. Although information about the risk of prostate cancer involvement of the transition zone may be important for surgical planning, our ability to predict this risk preoperatively is limited.

Gastric subepithelial masses: evaluation of multidetector CT (multiplanar reconstruction and virtual gastroscopy) versus endoscopic ultrasonography

OBJECTIVES

To assess the role of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) with multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) and virtual gastroscopy (VG) for detection and differentiation of gastric subepithelial masses (SEMs) by comparison with endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS).

METHODS

Forty-one patients with a suspected SEM were evaluated using EUS and MDCT. MDCT findings were analyzed based on the consensus of two radiologists who were blinded to the EUS findings. The analysis of the CT features included the location, size, and contours of the tumor, the presence of central dimpling, as well as the growth pattern, enhancement pattern, and enhancement degree. The long diameter (LD) and the short diameter (SD) of each lesion were measured and the LD/SD ratios were calculated. EUS and MDCT results were compared with histopathology for the pathologically proven lesions. For the non-pathologically proven lesions, MDCT results were compared with EUS.

RESULTS

Among the 41 patients, 34 SEMs were detected using EUS. For the detection of SEMs with MDCT, a sensitivity of 85.3%, a specificity of 85.7%, a positive predictive value of 96.7%, and a negative predictive value of 54.5% were calculated. The overall accuracy of MDCT for detecting and classifying the SEMs was 85.3 and 78.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

MDCT with MPR and VG is a valuable method for the evaluation of SEMs. Specific MDCT criteria for various SEMs may be helpful in making an accurate diagnosis.

Usefulness of contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography for discriminating mural nodules from mucous clots in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms: a single-center prospective study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography for discrimination of mural nodules from mucous clots in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas.

METHODS

Contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography was performed in 17 consecutive patients who had an intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm with mural lesions. To perform contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography, we used a second-generation sonographic contrast agent. After reconstitution with 2 mL of sterile water for injection, 0.7 mL of the agent was administered through a peripheral vein. From 10 to 30 seconds after injection of the contrast agent, the presence or absence of vascularity in mural lesions was assessed. All cases were referred to surgery, and diagnoses were finally obtained by pathologic examination. Diagnoses of mural nodules versus mucous clots based on the sonographic results were compared with tumor histopathologic findings.

RESULTS

Pathologic findings revealed 12 cases with mural nodules and 5 cases without. Contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography depicted vascularity in all 12 cases with pathologically confirmed mural nodules, whereas all 4 cases without vascularity had mucous clots. Only 1 case without a pathologically confirmed mural nodule was overestimated by contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography as having a mural nodule. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography for mural nodule detection were 100%, 80%, 92%, 100%, and 94%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of vascularity by contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography could be useful for distinguishing mural nodules from mucous clots in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms. Contrast-enhanced endoscopic sonography could be a necessary option to determine surgical indications for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms when mural lesions are observed.

Quality indicators of clinical cancer care (QC3) in colorectal cancer

OBJECTIVES

Assessing the quality of cancer care (QoCC) has become increasingly important to providers, regulators and purchasers of care worldwide. The aim of this study was to develop evidence-based quality indicators (QIs) for colorectal cancer (CRC) to be applied in a population-based setting.

DESIGN

A comprehensive evidence-based literature search was performed to identify the initial list of QIs, which were then selected and developed using a two-step-modified Delphi process involving two multidisciplinary expert panels with expertise in CRC care, quality of care and epidemiology.

SETTING

The QIs of the clinical cancer care (QC3) population-based project, which involves all the public and private hospitals and clinics present on the territory of Canton Ticino (South Switzerland).

PARTICIPANTS

Ticino Cancer Registry, The Colorectal Cancer Working Group (CRC-WG) and the external academic Advisory Board (AB).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Set of QIs which encompass the whole diagnostic-treatment process of CRC.

RESULTS

Of the 149 QIs that emerged from 181 sources of literature, 104 were selected during the in-person meeting of CRC-WG. During the Delphi process, CRC-WG shortened the list to 89 QI. AB finally validated 27 QIs according to the phase of care: diagnosis (N=6), pathology (N=3), treatment (N=16) and outcome (N=2).

CONCLUSIONS

Using the validated Delphi methodology, including a literature review of the evidence and integration of expert opinions from local clinicians and international experts, we were able to develop a list of QIs to assess QoCC for CRC. This will hopefully guarantee feasibility of data retrieval, as well as acceptance and translation of QIs into the daily clinical practice to improve QoCC. Moreover, evidence-based selected QIs allow one to assess immediate changes and improvements in the diagnostic-therapeutic process that could be translated into a short-term benefit for patients with a possible gain both in overall and disease-free survival.

A novel measurement technique for the design of fenestrated stent grafts: Comparison with three-dimensional aorta models

BACKGROUND

Stent graft placement is an acceptable treatment option for aortic disease, particularly for abdominal aortic aneurysm. At present, the use of stent grafts is expanding beyond current indications for use. Fenestrated stent grafts are used in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms whose aortic anatomy is unsuitable for repair using standard devices. The success of fenestrated stent graft placement is largely dependent on planning, including obtaining measurements and designing the stent.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate a measurement technique that may be used for the design of fenestrated stent grafts to repair endovascular aneurysms, and to compare these measurements, obtained using archived two-dimensional patient data, with measurements obtained using a three-dimensional (3-D) computer-assisted design model.

METHODS

Fenestrated stent grafts were designed and fabricated based on computed tomographic angiography images. 3-D models were constructed using modelling software and rapid prototyping technology incorporated with fused deposition modelling. The stent grafts were trunk-type, with four holes for the visceral branches (celiac axis, superior mesenteric artery, right renal artery and left renal artery). Computed tomography scans of 10 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms were reviewed. Axial, multiplanar reconstruction and curved multiplanar reconstruction images were used to measure 11 parameters. Sizing of the fenestrated aortic stent grafts was performed independently by an experienced interventional radiologist, and the results were compared with the same measurements calculated using the 3-D aorta model (generated using Materialise Interactive Medical Image Control System software [Materialise NV, Belgium]). Data were reported as the mean of the measurements. Measurements were evaluated using Bland-Altman analysis and concordance correlation coefficients (CCCs).

RESULTS

A total of 10 fenestrated stent grafts were fabricated. The proximal landing section above the celiac axis (one point of the wall being defined as the standard point) was 3 cm, and the distal flared section was 3 cm below the lowest renal artery. Ten computer-assisted design aorta models were successfully constructed. Measurements of the aortic diameter showed high agreement between those obtained using the archived patient computer system stent graft and those obtained using the 3-D aorta model. The CCC for variability was 0.9974. The distance from the standard point to the branch vessels also demonstrated good agreement. The CCC for variability was 0.9999.

DISCUSSION

A direct measurement technique using a standard point was simple to perform and was easily applied to the fabrication process. Preparation time will likely be shortened and the versatility of stent grafts will be improved using this method. It will be possible to produce standardized fenestrated stent grafts once patients' measurements are recorded and analyzed.

CONCLUSION

A fenestrated stent graft design technique using measurements of distance from a standard point generally showed a high level of agreement with a 3-D aorta model.

Update in the evaluation of the azoospermic male

Approximately 1% of all men in the general population suffer from azoospermia, and azoospermic men constitute approximately 10 to 15% of all infertile men. Thus, this group of patients represents a significant population in the field of male infertility. A thorough medical history, physical examination and hormonal profile are essential in the evaluation of azoospermic males. Imaging studies, a genetic workup and a testicular biopsy (with cryopreservation) may augment the workup and evaluation. Men with nonobstructive azoospermia should be offered genetic counseling before their spermatozoa are used for assisted reproductive techniques. This article provides a contemporary review of the evaluation of the azoospermic male.

Three-dimensional images contribute to the diagnosis of mucous retention cyst in maxillary sinus

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the detection of mucous retention cyst of maxillary sinus (MRCMS) using panoramic radiography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

STUDY DESIGN

A digital database with 6,000 panoramic radiographs was reviewed for MRCMS. Suggestive images of MRCMS were detected on 185 radiographs, and patients were located and invited to return for follow-up. Thirty patients returned, and control panoramic radiographs were obtained 6 to 46 months after the initial radiograph. When MRCMS was found on control radiographs, CBCT scans were obtained. Cysts were measured and compared on radiographs and scans. The Wilcoxon, Spearman and Kolmorogov-Smirnov tests were used for statistical analysis. The level of significance was set at 5%.

RESULTS

There were statistically significant differences between the two methods (p<0.05): 23 MRCMS detected on panoramic radiographs were confirmed by CBCT, but 5 MRCMS detected on CBCT images had not been identified by panoramic radiography. Eight MRCMS detected on control radiographs were not confirmed by CBCT. MRCMS size differences from initial to control panoramic radiographs and CBCT scans were not statistically significant (p= 0.617 and p= 0.626). The correlation between time and MRCMS size differences was not significant (r = -0.16, p = 0.381).

CONCLUSION

CBCT scanning detect MRCMS more accurately than panoramic radiography.

Molecular biomarkers in extrahepatic bile duct cancer patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy for gross residual disease after surgery

Purpose

To analyze the outcomes of chemoradiotherapy for extrahepatic bile duct (EHBD) cancer patients who underwent R2 resection or bypass surgery and to identify prognostic factors affecting clinical outcomes, especially in terms of molecular biomarkers.

Materials and Methods

Medical records of 21 patients with EHBD cancer who underwent R2 resection or bypass surgery followed by chemoradiotherapy from May 2001 to June 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. All surgical specimens were re-evaluated by immunohistochemical staining using phosphorylated protein kinase B (pAKT), CD24, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), survivin, and β-catenin antibodies. The relationship between clinical outcomes and immunohistochemical results was investigated.

Results

At a median follow-up of 20 months, the actuarial 2-year locoregional progression-free, distant metastasis-free and overall survival were 37%, 56%, and 54%, respectively. On univariate analysis using clinicopathologic factors, there was no significant prognostic factor. In the immunohistochemical staining, cytoplasmic staining, and nuclear staining of pAKT was positive in 10 and 6 patients, respectively. There were positive CD24 in 7 patients, MMP9 in 16 patients, survivin in 8 patients, and β-catenin in 3 patients. On univariate analysis, there was no significant value of immunohistochemical results for clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

There was no significant association between clinical outcomes of patients with EHBD cancer who received chemoradiotherapy after R2 resection or bypass surgery and pAKT, CD24, MMP9, survivin, and β-catenin. Future research is needed on a larger data set or with other molecular biomarkers.

Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: early evaluation of response to targeted therapy and prognostic value of Perfusion CT and Dynamic Contrast Enhanced-Ultrasound. Preliminary results

PURPOSE

To investigate whether there is any correlation between standard endpoints and tumor perfusion measurements with Perfusion CT and Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography (DCE-US) in patients with advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) treated with targeted therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nineteen patients were evaluated during targeted therapy (sorafenib n=16, sunitinib n=3). Changes in tumor perfusion measurements between baseline and month 1 were assessed and compared using RECIST progression criteria at month 2.

RESULTS

Median time to progression according to RECIST was 117 days and median time to death was 208 days. Perfusion CT values before treatment were significantly increased in HCC compared to the surrounding liver (n=17, P<.02). Eleven patients received complete examinations with both techniques at baseline and month 1. A non-significant decrease was found in all Perfusion CT values between RECIST nonprogressors (n=7) and progressors (n=4): mean Blood Volume: -27.9 vs. -11.1% and mean Blood Flow: -25.0 vs. -11.7% respectively. With DCE-US, opposite changes were found (mean Area Under the Curve AUC: -38.3 vs. 436.3%). RECIST progression at month 2 was significantly correlated with a threshold 40% decrease in AUC (P=.015). None of the patients with a decrease in AUC≥40% was a progressor at month 2.

CONCLUSION

Despite perfusion changes with both Perfusion CT and DCE-US in patients receiving treatment, only DCE-US at month 1 (with a decrease in the AUC of more than 40%) predicted non-progression at month 2 and may be a potential surrogate marker of tumor response during targeted therapy.

Prognostic significance of volume-based PET parameters in cancer patients

Accurate prediction of cancer prognosis before the start of treatment is important since these predictions often affect the choice of treatment. Prognosis is usually based on anatomical staging and other clinical factors. However, the conventional system is not sufficient to accurately and reliably determine prognosis. Metabolic parameters measured by ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) have the potential to provide valuable information regarding prognosis and treatment response evaluation in cancer patients. Among these parameters, volume-based PET parameters such as metabolic tumor volume and total lesion glycolysis are especially promising. However, the measurement of these parameters is significantly affected by the imaging methodology and specific image characteristics, and a standard method for these parameters has not been established. This review introduces volume-based PET parameters as potential prognostic indicators, and highlights methodological considerations for measurement, potential implications, and prospects for further studies.

Safety of bronchial arterial embolization with n-butyl cyanoacrylate in a swine model

AIM: To compare the efficacy and safety of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) with n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) and gelatin sponge particles (GSPs).

METHODS: Six healthy female swine were divided into two groups to be treated with BAE using NBCA-lipiodol (NBCA-Lp) and using GSPs. The occlusive durability, the presence of embolic materials, the response of the vessel wall, and damage to the bronchial wall and pulmonary parenchyma were compared.

RESULTS: No animals experienced any major complication. Two days later, no recanalization of the bronchial artery was observed in the NBCA-Lp group, while partial recanalization was seen in the GSP group. Embolic materials were not found in the pulmonary artery or pulmonary vein. NBCA-Lp was present as a bubble-like space in bronchial branch arteries of 127-1240 μm, and GSPs as reticular amorphous substance of 107-853 μm. These arteries were in the adventitia outside the bronchial cartilage but not in the fine vessels inside the bronchial cartilage. No damage to the bronchial wall and pulmonary parenchyma was found in either group. Red cell thrombus, stripping of endothelial cells, and infiltration of inflammatory cells was observed in vessels embolized with NBCA-Lp or GSP.

CONCLUSION: NBCA embolization is more potent than GSP with regard to bronchial artery occlusion, and both materials were present in bronchial branch arteries ≥ 100 μm diameter.

What is the nature of poststroke language recovery and reorganization?

This review focuses on three main topics related to the nature of poststroke language recovery and reorganization. The first topic pertains to the nature of anatomical and physiological substrates in the infarcted hemisphere in poststroke aphasia, including the nature of the hemodynamic response in patients with poststroke aphasia, the nature of the peri-infarct tissue, and the neuronal plasticity potential in the infarcted hemisphere. The second section of the paper reviews the current neuroimaging evidence for language recovery in the acute, subacute, and chronic stages of recovery. The third and final section examines changes in connectivity as a function of recovery in poststroke aphasia, specifically in terms of changes in white matter connectivity, changes in functional effective connectivity, and changes in resting state connectivity after stroke. While much progress has been made in our understanding of language recovery, more work needs to be done. Future studies will need to examine whether reorganization of language in poststroke aphasia corresponds to a tighter, more coherent, and efficient network of residual and new regions in the brain. Answering these questions will go a long way towards being able to predict which patients are likely to recover and may benefit from future rehabilitation.

Hill-Sachs lesion on FDG PET/CT

A woman with colon cancer underwent FDG PET/CT. Images demonstrated an FDG-avid lytic defect in the posterosuperior right humeral head, without other suspicious lesions. Because it is rare for bone to be the first metastatic site in patients with colon cancer, additional clinical history was sought. The patient experienced chronic right-shoulder anterior dislocations. The diagnosis of Hill-Sachs lesion was made. A Hill-Sachs lesion is a depression in the posterosuperior aspect of the humeral head caused by impaction of the humeral head against the anterior scapular glenoid during anterior shoulder dislocation. FDG-avid Hill-Sachs lesions must be distinguished from malignancy.

PPAR Could Contribute to the Pathogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Viral hepatitis with hepatitis C virus or hepatitis B virus and chronic liver disease such as alcoholic or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis are critical factors in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Furthermore, diabetes is known as an independent risk factor for HCC. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) is known to have an important role in fatty liver, and the mechanism of carcinogenesis has been clarified. PPAR controls ligand-dependent transcription, and three subtypes (α, δ, and γ) in humans are known. PPARs could contribute to the mechanisms of cell cycling, anti-inflammatory responses, and apoptosis. Therefore, to clarify the pathogenesis of HCC, we should examine PPAR signaling. In this paper, we have summarized the relevance of PPARs to the pathogenesis of HCC and cancer stem cells and possible therapeutic options through modifying PPAR signaling.

On the Role of Ultrasonography and CT Scan in the Diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis

The purposes of this study were to revisit the utility of ultrasonography (USG) as a primary imaging modality in acute appendicitis (AA) and to establish the role of CT scan as a second-line/problem-solving modality. All cases of suspected AA were referred for urgent USG. USG was done with standard protocol for appendicitis. Limited computed tomographic (CT) scan [NCCT ± CECT (IV contrast only)] was done for the lower abdomen and pelvis where sonographic findings were equivocal. One hundred and twenty-one patients were referred for USG for suspected appendicitis. Eight-four patients underwent surgery for AA based on clinical as well as imaging findings, of whom 76 had appendicitis confirmed at histopathology. Three patients were misdiagnosed (3.6 %) on USG as appendicitis. Of 76 patients of appendicitis confirmed histopathologically, 63 (82.8 %) had features of appendicitis on USG and did not require any additional imaging modality. Of 121 patients, 12 (10 %) needed CT scan because of atypical features on USG. Of these 12 patients, seven had retrocecal appendicitis, and three high-up paracolic appendicitis. USG alone had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy of 81, 88, 92.6, 71.6, and 83 %, respectively. When combined with CT scan in select cases, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of combined USG + CT scan were 96 % (P = 0.0014), 89 %, 93 %, 93.5 % (P = 0.0001), and 93 % (P = 0.0484), respectively. Twenty-eight (23 %) patients were given alternative diagnosis on USG. Dedicated appendiceal USG should be used as a primary imaging modality in diagnosing or excluding AA. Appendiceal CT can serve as a problem-solving modality.

Evaluation of renal urothelial carcinoma by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography

PURPOSE

To observe ultrasonographic features of urothelial carcinoma in renal pelvis and evaluate contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in diagnosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-two patients with urothelial carcinoma underwent preoperative conventional US, colour Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) and CEUS.

RESULTS

Of 52 total lesions, 41 (78.8%) could be clearly identified by US, and 49 (94.2%) were enhanced by CEUS. Among US-imaged lesions, 39 (95.1%) were solid tumours, and two (4.9%) were mixed solid-cystic; 25 (61.0%) were isoechoic, 11 (26.8%) hypoechoic, and five (12.2%) hyperechoic. Analysis of tumour blood flow by CDFI characterised 17 avascular lesions (41.5% of total), 16 hypovascular (39.0%), and 8 hypervascular (19.5%). The resistance index ranged from 0.65 to 0.88 (mean of 0.71). Enhancement was seen in 49 lesions after injection of SonoVue. A slow enhancement pattern was observed in 36 lesions (73.5%) relative to renal cortex, and 13/49 (26.5%) showed simultaneous enhancement. At peak enhancement, 38 lesions (77.6%) were hypo-enhanced, six (12.2%) iso-enhanced, and five (10.2%) hyper-enhanced. There were 12 lesions with intertumoural necrosis or haemorrhage (24.5%) that were heterogeneously enhanced, and 37 (75.5%) were homogeneously enhanced. A fast washout pattern was observed in 46 lesions (93.9%), synchronous washout in two (4.08%), and slow washout in one (2.04%).

CONCLUSIONS

Slow-in, fast-out, and hypo-enhancement properties are associated with renal urothelial carcinoma and may thus have diagnostic value. We found that CEUS is able to identify tumours that are ambiguous by conventional US, and it thus significantly improves the confidence of diagnosis.

Radiofrequency ablation of liver metastases from colorectal cancer: a literature review

Liver metastases occur in up to 60% of patients with colorectal cancer, and the control of liver metastases is considered to be of primary importance because it is a critical factor in determining prognosis. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy is one of the least invasive techniques for unresectable hepatic malignancies and can be performed safely using percutaneous, laparoscopic, or open surgical techniques. The local tumor progression rates after RFA for colorectal liver metastases range from 8.8% to 40.0%, and 5-year survival rates range from 20.0% to 48.5%. No prospective, randomized trials comparing the efficacy of RFA with that of surgical resection for colorectal liver metastases are currently available. However, some retrospective studies have reported that patients who received RFA had a survival rate similar to that observed in surgically treated groups, while other studies have reported better survival among patients who underwent surgical resection. The use of a laparoscopic or open surgical approach allows the repeated placement of RFA electrodes at multiple sites to ablate larger tumors. An accurate evaluation of treatment response is very important for the success of RFA therapy because a sufficient safety margin (at least 0.5 cm) can prevent local tumor progression. This review critically summarizes the current status of RFA for liver metastases from colorectal cancer.

Does quality of life of prostate cancer patients differ by stage and treatment?

BACKGROUND

The lack of consensus amongst experts delineate how important it is for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer (PCa) to make an informed decision on available treatment options through an objective discussion of the risks and benefits. One of important benefits could be seen as patient's quality of life (QoL) after treatment. We aimed to assess QoL differences in prostate cancer patients by stage and treatment for a population-based sample.

METHODS

The cross-sectional PCa patient population-based national level study for a prostate cancer patient population was performed. QoL was investigated with EORTC QLQ-C30. The analysis includes descriptive statistics and evaluation of differences in functional and symptom scales by stage and treatment group by predictors in the model.

RESULTS

Response rate was 79.1% (N=514). The highest QoL scores were observed in localised PCa, active surveillance treatment group. The lowest scores were observed in advanced stages, chemotherapy treatment group. Between cancer stages, statistically significant differences were observed only in scales of emotional functioning (p<0.001) and social functioning (p<0.001). Between treatment groups, statistically significant differences were observed in scales of physical functioning (p<0.001), role functioning (p<0.001), emotional functioning (p<0.001), and social functioning (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlighted statistically significant differences in QoL between cancer stages and treatment. Understanding how the QoL changes in relation with the selected treatment option can be important to the urologist and individual patient to have realistic expectations as well as to optimise treatment decisions for the prostate cancer patient when exist several alternatives.

Management of spermatic cord tumors: a rare urologic malignancy

Primary spermatic cord tumors are rare yet clinically significant urologic lesions that affect patients of all ages. They are the most common tumors of the paratesticular region and generally present as asymptomatic, slow growing, firm, palpable paratesticular masses. Although most of them are benign comprised primarily of lipomas, approximately 25% are potentially life-threatening malignant tumors. The most common reported malignant histological types include liposarcomas, leiomyosarcomas, rhabdomyosarcomas, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, and fibrosarcomas. Management of these malignant tumors has been difficult because of their rarity, therefore there is little consensus regarding optimal surgical and adjunctive treatment strategies. It is recommended that radiological techniques such as scrotal ultrasound (US), computed tomography, and magnetic resonance be used to evaluate these masses before surgery. The curative treatment of choice is radical orchiectomy with high cord ligation and wide excision of surrounding soft tissue structures within the inguinal canal. Patients with inadequately resected disease should undergo a reoperative procedure for wide inguinal re-resection. Retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy is recommended when there is preoperative evidence of retroperitoneal lymph node metastasis and as an adjuvant treatment for rhabdomyosarcomas since they have a higher propensity for lymphatic spread. Adjuvant treatments, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, have shown little efficacy, except in the management of patients with local recurrence or high-grade rhabdomyosarcomas. Long-term follow up is recommended given their high recurrence rates.

Feasibility and safety of EUS-guided cryothermal ablation in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

New therapies are needed for pancreatic cancer.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the feasibility and safety of a new endoscopic treatment. Secondary endpoints were to determine effects on tumor growth measured with CT scan and to find the overall survival.

DESIGN

A cohort study of patients with local progression of advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma after neoadjuvant therapy. The cryotherm probe (CTP), a flexible bipolar device that combines radiofrequency with cryogenic cooling, was used under EUS guidance.

SETTING

San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy; University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.

PATIENTS

A total of 22 patients (male/female 11/11; mean age 61.9 years) were enrolled from September 2009 to May 2011.

INTERVENTION

Radiofrequency heating: 18 W; pressure for cooling: 650 psi (Pounds per Square Inch); application time: depending on tumor size.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Feasibility was evaluated during the procedure. A clinical and radiologic follow-up was planned.

RESULTS

The CTP was successfully applied in 16 patients (72.8%); in 6 it was not possible because of stiffness of the GI wall and of the tumor. Amylase arose in 3 of 16 patients; none had clinical signs of pancreatitis. Late complications arose in 4 cases: 3 were mostly related to tumor progression. Median postablation survival time was 6 months. A CT scan was performed in all patients, but only in 6 of 16 was it possible to clearly define the tumor margins after ablation. In these patients, the tumor appeared smaller compared with the initial mass (P = .07).

LIMITATIONS

Small sample of patients, difficulty of objectifying the size of the ablated zone by CT scan.

CONCLUSION

EUS-guided CTP ablation is feasible and safe. Further investigations are needed to demonstrate progression-free survival and local control.

Vein of galen aneurysmal malformations: an ultrasonographic incidental finding-a case report

Background. The Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGAM) is a rare congenital, cerebral, arteriovenous deformity. Good cross-discipline cooperation is in demand because of associated complications and high mortality. The recognition of the optimal therapeutic window is useful to allow proper management. Case Report. We report on the successful treatment of a 2-week-old, healthy girl with a VGAM, which came across in the context of the newborn ultrasonographic screening. After interdisciplinary discussion, 2 embolizations of the VGAM followed without complications—the first in the age of 6 months and the second at 12 months of life. Before and after the intervention, the patient had an age-appropriate development without neurological deficits. Conclusion. The endovascular transarterial embolization is described as the treatment of choice. Time and method of intervention depend on clinical signs of the patient. In our case the patient was asymptomatic. So the arteriovenous abnormality was an incidental finding by ultrasound. Because of the natural history of the disease, and the potential severe neurocognitive consequences at long-term followup if left untreated, it was decided to embolize the lesion. Thanks to embolization with glue, good therapeutical and clinical results could be obtained with normal neurological development.

MicroRNAs: relevant tools for a colorectal surgeon?

Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignancy and cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Approximately half of the patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer ultimately die of the condition. Death from colorectal cancer can be prevented by early detection, but unfortunately presentation is often late, with a worse prognosis. Screening by fecal occult blood testing reduces disease-specific mortality, but there is a need for sensitive and specific noninvasive biomarkers to facilitate detecting the disease, staging it, and predicting the best therapeutic options. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short noncoding RNA sequences that have a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression. They have significant regulatory functions in basic cellular processes, such as cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Evidence suggests that miRNAs may function as both tumor suppressors and oncogenes. The main mechanism for changes in the function of miRNAs in cancer cells is due to aberrant gene expression. Accurate discrimination of miRNA profiles between tumor and normal mucosa in colorectal cancer allows definition of specific expression patterns of miRNAs, giving good potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets. MiRNAs expressed in colorectal cancers are also abundantly present and stable in stool and plasma samples. Their extraction from these three sources is feasible and reproducible. The ease and reliability of determining miRNA profiles in plasma or stool makes them potential molecular markers for colorectal cancer screening. This review summarizes the role miRNAs have in colorectal cancer, highlighting particularly the potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications in the future treatment of the disease.

Prostate cancer: computer-aided diagnosis with multiparametric 3-T MR imaging--effect on observer performance

PURPOSE

To determine the effect of computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) on less-experienced and experienced observer performance in differentiation of benign from malignant prostate lesions at 3-T multiparametric magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The institutional review board waived the need for informed consent. Retrospectively, 34 patients were included who had prostate cancer and had undergone multiparametric MR imaging, including T2-weighted, diffusion-weighted, and dynamic contrast material-enhanced MR imaging prior to radical prostatectomy. Six radiologists less experienced in prostate imaging and four radiologists experienced in prostate imaging were asked to characterize different regions suspicious for cancer as benign or malignant on multiparametric MR images first without and subsequently with CAD software. The effect of CAD was analyzed by using a multiple-reader, multicase, receiver operating characteristic analysis and a linear mixed-model analysis.

RESULTS

In 34 patients, 206 preannotated regions, including 67 malignant and 64 benign regions in the peripheral zone (PZ) and 19 malignant and 56 benign regions in the transition zone (TZ), were evaluated. Stand-alone CAD had an overall area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.90. For PZ and TZ lesions, the AUCs were 0.92 and 0.87, respectively. Without CAD, less-experienced observers had an overall AUC of 0.81, which significantly increased to 0.91 (P = .001) with CAD. For experienced observers, the AUC without CAD was 0.88, which increased to 0.91 (P = .17) with CAD. For PZ lesions, less-experienced observers increased their AUC from 0.86 to 0.95 (P < .001) with CAD. Experienced observers showed an increase from 0.91 to 0.93 (P = .13). For TZ lesions, less-experienced observers significantly increased their performance from 0.72 to 0.79 (P = .01) with CAD and experienced observers increased their performance from 0.81 to 0.82 (P = .42).

CONCLUSION

Addition of CAD significantly improved the performance of less-experienced observers in distinguishing benign from malignant lesions; when less-experienced observers used CAD, they reached similar performance as experienced observers. The stand-alone performance of CAD was similar to performance of experienced observers.

Pleural and peripheral lung lesions: comparison of US- and CT-guided biopsy

PURPOSE

To retrospectively compare the outcome of computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography (US) guidance when sampling a consecutive series of peripheral lung or pleural lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Institutional review board approval was obtained, and the informed consent requirement was waived. From January 2000 to August 2011, 711 thoracic biopsies were performed at two institutions. Among these, 273 lesions in 273 patients (115 men, 158 women; mean age, 65 years ± 11 [standard deviation]; 86 pleural lesions; 187 pulmonary lesions) had pleural origin or were peripherally located in the lung with a small amount of pleural contact. These lesions were sampled with either CT (170 patients; mean age, 64 years ± 12; 55 pleural lesions, 115 peripheral pulmonary lesions) or US (103 patients; mean age, 67 years ± 10; 31 pleural lesions, 72 peripheral pulmonary lesions) guidance by using an 18-gauge modified Menghini needle. Procedure duration, postprocedural pneumothorax or hemorrhage, and sample adequacy were recorded. Fisher exact test, log-rank test, and Mann-Whitney U test were performed.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found for patient age (P = .741), sex (P = .900), lesion size (P = .206), or lesion origin (P = .788). Median time was 556 seconds for CT-guided biopsy (25th percentile, 408 seconds; 75th percentile, 704 seconds) and 321 seconds for US-guided biopsy (25th percentile, 157 seconds; 75th percentile, 485 seconds) (P < .001). Postprocedural pneumothorax was observed in 25 of 170 (14.7%) CT-guided procedures and in six of 103 (5.8%) US-guided procedures (P = .025); hemorrhage occurred in two of 170 (1.2%) CT-guided procedures and in one of 103 (1.0%) US-guided procedures (P = .875). Technical success was achieved in 100 of 103 US-guided procedures (97.1%) and in 164 of 170 CT-guided procedures (96.5%) (P = .999).

CONCLUSION

With pleural or peripheral lung lesions, US guidance is comparable to CT guidance in terms of sample accuracy, while allowing for a significant reduction in procedure time and postprocedural pneumothorax and being free from ionizing radiation.

Budd-Chiari syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is an uncommon condition characterized by obstruction of the hepatic venous outflow tract. Presentation may vary from a completely asymptomatic condition to fulminant liver failure. BCS is an example of postsinusoidal portal hypertension. The management can be divided into three main categories: medical, surgical, and endovascular. The purpose of this article is to present an overall perspective of the problem, diagnosis, and management.

CONCLUSION

BCS requires accurate, prompt diagnosis and aggressive therapy. Treatment will vary depending on the clinical presentation, cause, and anatomic location of the problem. Patients with BCS are probably best treated in tertiary care centers where liver transplantation is available.

Balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration of gastric varices

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this review is to describe the clinical factors related to balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration, including the preparation needed, the technique and challenges, and the outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Although the procedure can be performed when transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt is contraindicated or when endoscopic management fails, balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration is successful as a first-line or second-line therapy. Gastric variceal rebleeding rates are low and serious complications are rare. Randomized controlled trials are required to evaluate the superiority of this procedure over other methods of treating gastric varices and to determine which sclerosant should be used. In the near future, this procedure may play a larger role in emergency care and in the management of nongastric varices.