Permanent-access hepaticojejunostomy

Therapeutic Role of Subcutaneous Access Loop Created Adjunct to Hepaticojejunostomy for Management of Bile Duct Injury

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (RYHJ) is usually required for major bile duct injury (BDI) as a definitive treatment. Hepaticojejunostomy anastomotic stricture (HJAS) is the most feared long-term complication following RYHJ. The ideal management of HJAS remains undefined. The provision of permanent endoscopic access to the bilio-enteric anastomotic site can make endoscopic management of HJAS feasible and attractive option. In this cohort study, we aimed to evaluate short- and long-term outcomes of subcutaneous access loop created adjunct to RYHJ (RYHJ-SA) for management of BDI and its usefulness for endoscopic management of anastomotic stricture if occurred.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a prospective study including patients who were diagnosed with iatrogenic BDI and underwent hepaticojejunostomy with subcutaneous access loop between September 2017 and September 2019.

RESULTS

This study included a total number of 21 patients whom ages ranged between 18 and 68 years. During follow-up, three cases had HJAS. One patient had the access loop in subcutaneous position. Endoscopy was done but failed to dilate the stricture. The other 2 patients had the access loop in subfascial position. Endoscopy of them failed to enter the access loop due to failure of fluoroscopy to identify the access loop. The three cases underwent redo-hepaticojejunostomy. Parajejunal (parastomal) hernia occurs in 2 patients in whom the access loop was fixed subcutaneous position.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, modified RYHJ with subcutaneous access loop (RYHJ-SA) is associated with reduced quality of life and patient satisfaction. Moreover, its role in endoscopic management of HJAS after biliary reconstruction for major BDI is limited.

Hepaticojejunostomy with gastric access loop versus conventional hepaticojejunostomy: a randomized trial

Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (RYHJ) with the provision of "gastric access loop" was developed to shorten the distance traveled by the endoscope to reach hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) anastomotic site. The aim of our study was to assess modified RYHJ with gastric access loop (RYHJ-GA) and compare it with conventional RYHJ (RYHJ-C) regarding short- and long-term outcomes and, moreover, to evaluate the feasibility and results of future endoscopic access of the modified bilio-enteric anastomosis. Patients eligible for RYHJ between September 2017 and December 2019 were allocated randomly to receive either RYHJ-C or RYHJ-GA. Fifty-two patients were randomly assigned to RYHJ-C (n = 26) or RYHJ-GA (n = 26). Three cases in RYHJ-C and 4 cases in RYHJ- GA developed HJ anastomotic stricture (HJAS) (P=0.68). 3 cases of RYHJ-GA had successful endoscopic dilation and balloon sweeping of biliary mud (one case) or stones (2 cases). Revisional surgery was needed in 2 cases of RYHJ-C and 1 case in RYHJ-GA (P=0.68). Modified RYHJ with gastric access loop is comparable to the classic hepaticojejunostomy regarding complications. However, gastric access enables easy endoscopic access for the management of future HJAS. This modification should be considered in patients with a high risk of HJAS during long-term follow-up.The trial registration number (TRN) and date of registration:ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03252379), August 17, 2017.

Hepatolithiasis: A Retrospective Analysis of Surgical Management Options in a Tertiary Care Centre in Southern India

Introduction: Hepatolithiasis (HL) is the presence of stones in the bile ducts proximal to the confluence of the hepatic ducts. This study aims to analyse the case presentations of HL in a tertiary care centre in South India and define the role of hepatic resection in these cases and their outcomes.

Methods: Retrospective data of all patients operated on for HL from 2012 to 2021 were analysed with regard to clinical parameters, biochemical parameters, and different types of surgical management. Descriptive data analyses were done.

Results: A total of 42 patients underwent surgical treatment for HL between 2012 and 2021 in our institution. Of the patients, 64% were females. A total of 50% of patients were affected by bilateral HL. Of the patients, 95% had abdominal pain, 57% had a fever, and 29% presented with jaundice. A total of 38% of patients had a history of previous biliary surgery. Atrophy was present in 38% of cases. Choledochoduodenostomy was performed in 26%, and hepatic resection with bilio-enteric anastomosis was done in 36% of patients. Endoluminal access loop was done in 21%. Hepaticojejunostomy alone was done in 14%. On follow-up visits (mean: 61.5 months), 60% of patients were asymptomatic with no recurrence. There was nil 30-day postoperative mortality.

Conclusion: The treatment options for HL were based on the extent of liver involvement. The bilio-enteric anastomosis was done after the clearance of stones for uncomplicated HL. Complicated HL may need liver resection with hepaticojejunostomy, with an endoluminal access loop for a good outcome.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography via a permanent access loop

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate the indications, technical and clinical success, and complications of the endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) via a permanent access loop (PAL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty patients who underwent ERC through PAL between 2009 and 2017 were included in this study. The technical success was described as achieving access to the bile ducts through PAL and the clinical success was described as the clinical and laboratory improvement of the patients after the procedure.

RESULTS

The study was performed with 20 patients. The median follow-up duration was 24 months (3-96) and the median number of ERC sessions was 3.9 (1-10). The most common ERC indications through PAL were stones (40%) and cholangitis (30%). In 16 patients (75%), anastomotic or branched strictures were observed. The improvement of strictures via intermittent stenting and dilatation was observed in 6 patients, but no improvement was observed in 5 patients. The treatment of those 5 patients continues. In this study, the technical success was 100% and clinical success was 85%. While no mortality due to PAL-mediated ERC was observed, free wall perforation was seen in one patient who was referred to surgery.

CONCLUSION

PAL-mediated ERC procedure is a technique with high technical and clinical success and low complication rate in patients who require frequent percutaneous procedures and those with difficult access to the biliary tract.

Hepatico-jejuno-duodenal access loop – a modified biliary reconstruction technique for facilitated endoscopic access to biliary tree following surgery for hepatolithiasis

Aims: Management of hepatolithiasis is complicated by residual and recurrent disease, and endoscopic access to biliary tree in such patients enables therapeutic interventions thereby avoiding the morbidity associated with relaparotomy. In this study we assess a modified biliary reconstruction in the form of hepaticojejuno- duodenal access loop (HJDA) with regard to the feasibility of endoscopic access to intrahepatic ducts with follow-up. Methods: From August 2011 till December 2016, all patients treated for hepatolithiasis with bilateral disease, nondilated extrahepatic biliary system or extensive intrahepatic strictures underwent HJDA. After completion of hepaticojejunostomy (HJ), the free end of the Roux loop was anastomosed to the first part of duodenum in a side to side fashion. In the fourth week postoperatively, endoscopy with conventional forward viewing endoscope was performed to explore the possibility of accessing the biliary system. Results: Endoscopic access to the intrahepatic bile ducts through the HJDA was possible in all the patients and mean time taken to access the HJ was 3.5 minutes (2-7 minutes). There were no complications pertinent to construction of the HJDA. One patient had bile leak from HJ, which settled with conservative management and surgical site infection was seen in four. We did not have any mortality in our series. During the follow up, three of our patients (30%) subsequently presented with cholangitis at a mean period of 22 months and were successfully managed with endoscopic procedures alone. One patient required balloon dilatation of the HJ stricture, while the other two were managed by endoscopic removal of calculi. Overall, five endoscopic procedures were required in three patients with recurrent cholangitis in the follow up period with rate of 1.67 procedures per patient. Conclusion: HJDA is a modified biliary reconstruction technique which facilitates endoscopic access to the biliary system for removal of recurrent/residual intrahepatic stones. It is therefore recommended in patients with complicated hepatolithiasis like bilateral disease, recurrence, multiple intrahepatic strictures and for those in whom future endoscopic access to biliary tree is deemed necessary.

Retrograde Percutaneous Transjejunal Creation of Biliary Neoanastomoses in Patients with Complete Hepaticojejunostomy Dehiscence

A technique of percutaneous hepaticojejunostomy (PHJ) was developed to allow creation of a neoanastomosis in cases of hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) dehiscence when endoscopic intervention is unfeasible as a result of postsurgical anatomy. PHJ involves transhepatic biliary catheterization and transjejunal retrograde enterotomy. A rendezvous establishes the communication between the bile ducts and the jejunum. PHJ was performed in five patients, and neoanastomosis creation without residual biliary leak was achieved in all cases, with no procedure-related complications. Bilirubin levels and white blood cell counts quickly decreased after PHJ (median, 1 d; range, 1-4 d). Median survival after PHJ was 210 days (range, 45-540 d).

The Hepaticojejunostomy Technique with Intra-Anastomotic Stent in Biliary Diseases and Its Evolution throughout the Years: A Technical Analysis

Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (RYHJ) is currently considered as the definitive treatment for iatrogenic bile duct injuries and the principal representative of biliary diversion procedures. This technique has met many milestones of extensive evolution, particularly the last years of concomitant technological evolution (laparoscopic/robotic approach). Anastomotic strictures and leaks, which may have deleterious effects on the survival and quality of life of a patient with biliary obstruction of any cause, made the need of the development of a safe and efficient RYHJ compulsory. The aim of this technical analysis and the juxtaposed discussions is to elucidate with the most important milestones and technical tips and tricks all aspects of a feasible and reliable RYHJ technique that is performed in our center for the last 25 years in around 400 patients.

Transjejunal biliary interventions: going back to a road less traveled

Percutaneous transhepatic biliary interventions are not without risk and potential complications. In patients with bilioenteric anastomosis in whom repeat biliary interventions are expected, percutaneous transjejunal access is a very useful approach that is not frequently used nowadays. We provide a brief review of the history, indications, and current status of transjejunal biliary interventions. Transjejunal biliary access provides a relatively atraumatic pathway to the biliary system in patients that need repeat interventions. Multiple studies have provided convincing data that in appropriately chosen patients receiving a bilioenteric anastomosis, an antecolic limb of jejunum should be placed for subsequent access in biliary intervention.

Management of intrahepatic stones: the role of subcutaneous hepaticojejunal access loop. A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Patients with intrahepatic stones usually present with recurrent cholangitis, biliary sepsis and intrahepatic abscesses, may develop liver atrophy and may progress to cholangiocarcinoma. Treatment of intrahepatic stones is difficult and the disease progresses in most patients even after adequate treatment. Surgical removal of stones has been the standard management but residual stones and stone recurrence occur frequently whatever the technique. Because of the need for repeated biliary instrumentation, long-term access routes involving percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopic lithotripsy (PTCSL), hepaticocutaneousjejunostomy (HCJ) and subparietal hepaticojejunal access loop to permit stone retrieval or stricture dilatation have been developed.

PURPOSE

The aim of this work was to evaluate the outcome of subcutaneous hepaticojejunal access loop in the management of intrahepatic stones.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 2009 and January 2013, 42 patients with intrahepatic stones underwent surgical treatment at the Gastrointestinal Surgery Unit, Main Alexandria University Hospital. Demographic data, details of operative findings, follow up details, and treatment of recurrent stones were analyzed. After approval of local ethics committee, all patients included in the study were informed well about the procedure and an informed written consent was obtained from every patient before carrying the procedure.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients (17 males and 25 females) with intrahepatic stones underwent surgery with construction of a subcutaneous hepaticojejunal access loop. Stones were confined to the left lobe in 25 patients, the right lobe in 3 patients and bilobar in 14 patients. Associated extrahepatic stones were found in 33 patients. Twenty-two patients had associated intrahepatic duct strictures. Five patients with atrophy of segments II and III underwent hepatic resection at the time of access loop formation. The mean operation time was 4.9 h and mean blood loss was 440 mL. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 10 days. Wound infection was the commonest complication, occurring in 5 (12%) patients. There were no specific complications attributable to the construction of the access loop. The subcutaneous access loop was used to gain access to the biliary tree in 28 patients with residual or recurrent stones. A total of 55 procedures (range 1-5) were attempted with successful access achieved in all cases and successful stone clearance in 21 of the 28 patients, and all of them were symptom free for at least 12 months after the last procedure. Partial stone clearance was achieved in the remaining seven patients. These seven patients had different degrees of biliary strictures.

CONCLUSION

The subcutaneous access loop offers the advantage of permanent access for the successful management of retained or re-formed intrahepatic stones with minimal morbidity since it permitted easy access to intrahepatic ducts using the conventional forward-viewing endoscope or the choledochoscope, without the additional morbidity of a biliary-cutaneous fistula or transhepatic access.

Bilio-entero-gastrostomy: prospective assessment of a modified biliary reconstruction with facilitated future endoscopic access

Background

Hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) is the classical reconstruction for benign biliary stricture. Endoscopic management of anastomotic complications after hepaticojejunostomy is extremely difficult. In this work we assess a modified biliary reconstruction in the form of bilio-entero-gastrostomy (BEG) regarding the feasibility of endoscopic access to HJ and management of its stenosis if encountered.

Methods

From October 2008 till February 2011 all patients presented to the authors with benign biliary stricture who needed bilio-enteric shunt were considered. For each patient bilio-entero-gastrostomy (BEG) of either type I, II or III was constructed. In the fourth week postoperatively, endoscopy was performed to explore the possibility to access the biliary anastomosis and perform cholangiography.

Results

BEG shunt was performed for seventeen patients, one of whom, with BEG type I, died due to myocardial infarction leaving sixteen patients with a diagnosis of postcholecystectomy biliary injury (9), inflammatory stricture with or without choledocholithiasis (5) and strictured biliary shunt (2). BEG shunts were either type I (3), type II (3) or type III (10). Endoscopic follow up revealed successful access to the anastomosis in 14 patients (87.5%), while the access failed in one type I and one type II BEG (12.5%). Mean time needed to access the anastomosis was 12.6 min (2-55 min). On a scale from 1–5, mean endoscopic difficulty score was 1.7. One patient (6.25%), with BEG type I, developed anastomotic stricture after 18 months that was successfully treated endoscopically by stenting. These preliminary results showed that, in relation to the other types, type III BEG demonstrated the tendency to be surgically simpler to perform, endoscopicall faster to access, easier and with no failure.

Conclusions

BEG, which is a modified biliary reconstruction, facilitates endoscopic access of the biliary anastomosis, offers management option for its complications, and, therefore, could be considered for biliary reconstruction of benign stricture. BEG type III tend to be surgically simpler and endoscopically faster, easier and more successful than type I and II.

Biliary complications in 106 consecutive duct-to-duct biliary reconstruction in right-lobe living donor liver transplantation performed in 1 year in a single center: a new surgical technique

OBJECTIVE

Biliary complications remain a major source of morbidity after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). Of 109 consecutive right lobe (RL)-LDLTs performed in 1 year in our institution, we present the biliary complications among 106 patients who underwent a new duct-to-duct anastomosis technique known as University of Inonu.

METHODS

Of 153 liver transplantations performed in 1 year from January to December of 2008, 128 were LDLTs including 109 RL-LDLTs. The others were left or left lateral grafts. All RL-LDLT patients were adults, all of whom except three included a duct-to-duct anastomosis.

RESULTS

All, but three, biliary reconstructions were completed with a surgical technique, so called UI, in which 6-0 prolene sutures were used. Nine bile leaks were seen in 106 recipients (8.49%) performed in a duct-to-duct fashion in a time period of 1 to 4 weeks. Seventeen patients (16.03%) posed bile duct stricture (BDS). Five patients had both. Although endoscopic stent placement and percutaneous balloon dilatation, 4 patients continued to suffer from BDS on whom a permanent access hepatico-jejunostomy (PAHJ) procedures were performed.

CONCLUSION

We recommend a duct-to-duct biliary reconstruction because of its de facto advantages over other types of anastomosis provided the native duct is not diseased. After almost 2 years, the bile tract complication rate was 22.64%.

Therapeutic value and outcome of gastric access loops created during hepaticojejunostomy for iatrogenic bile duct injuries

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Hepaticojejunostomy is the reconstructive procedure performed for iatrogenic bile duct injuries. Anastomotic site stricture is the most significant complication of this operation. Revision surgery is associated with a significant morbidity and mortality. Creation of access to the anastomotic site facilitates the management of such strictures by minimal access techniques and reduces the need for revision surgery. This retrospective study aims to investigate the technical accessibility, usefulness, morbidity related to and the outcome of hepaticojejunostomy with gastric access loops performed as the treatment for iatrogenic bile duct injuries.

METHODOLOGY

Twenty-seven consecutive patients who have undergone hepaticojejunostomy (including three revision surgeries and a re-revision surgery) with gastric access loops from July 2005 to October 2009 were followed up for clinical, biochemical, radiological and endoscopic evidence of anastomotic site occlusion and the need for intervention. Morbidity related to gastric access loops was assessed by dyspepsia disability score.

RESULTS

Mean follow up was 35.4 (range 6-61) months. Three patients developed anastomotic strictures at 4, 22 and 5 months after hepaticojejunostomy and had successful endotherapy via the gastric access loop. They remain well at 33rd, 31st and 3rd months, respectively, following intervention. Based on the dyspepsia disability score none of the patients had symptomatic dyspepsia affecting daily activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Gastric access loop is accessible and useful for stricture dilation and other endotherapeutic procedures. In the absence of significant symptoms related to bile reflux, gastric access loop could be considered as a useful and safe adjunct in the management of hepaticojejunostomy by surgeons especially in settings with limited facilities and expertise for radiological manipulations.

Iatrogenic bile duct injuries: Etiology, diagnosis and management

Iatrogenic bile duct injuries (IBDI) remain an important problem in gastrointestinal surgery. They are most frequently caused by laparoscopic cholecystectomy which is one of the commonest surgical procedures in the world. The early and proper diagnosis of IBDI is very important for surgeons and gastroenterologists, because unrecognized IBDI lead to serious complications such as biliary cirrhosis, hepatic failure and death. Laboratory and radiological investigations play an important role in the diagnosis of biliary injuries. There are many classifications of IBDI. The most popular and simple classification of IBDI is the Bismuth scale. Endoscopic techniques are recommended for initial treatment of IBDI. When endoscopic treatment is not effective, surgical management is considered. Different surgical reconstructions are performed in patients with IBDI. According to the literature, Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is the most frequent surgical reconstruction and recommended by most authors. In the opinion of some authors, a more physiological and equally effective type of reconstruction is end-to-end ductal anastomosis. Long term results are the most important in the assessment of the effectiveness of IBDI treatment. There are a few classifications for the long term results in patients treated for IBDI; the Terblanche scale, based on clinical biliary symptoms, is regarded as the most useful classification. Proper diagnosis and treatment of IBDI may avoid many serious complications and improve quality of life.

Percutaneous transhepatic choledochoscopic removal of intrahepatic stones

BACKGROUND

Treatment of hepatolithiasis is complex and difficult. With the advent of biliary endoscopy and radiological intervention, percutaneous choledochoscopic removal of intrahepatic stones has become a well established procedure.

METHODS

Seventy-nine patients with intrahepatic stones that were removed by percutaneous transhepatic choledochoscopy (PTCS) between 1993 and 2001 were studied retrospectively. The results of the procedure and the long-term outcome of these patients were analysed.

RESULTS

The success rate of choledochoscopic removal of intrahepatic stones was 76.8 per cent. Complications occurred in 17 patients (21.5 per cent). Removal of stones predominantly on the right side was difficult using this method. Cholangitis occurred in about one third of patients within 3-5 years after PTCS. For patients with a stricture, cholangitis recurred gradually over the years of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Intrahepatic stricture was the major determinant for the recurrence of stones or symptoms. Hepatic resection should be offered to these patients if the disease is localized in one liver segment or lobe. In other cases, percutaneous choledochoscopy and stricture dilatation is a useful solution, and may reduce further damage to the liver.

Biliary access loops for intrahepatic stones: results of jejunoduodenal anastomosis

BACKGROUND

Patients with intrahepatic calculi require multiple interventions following successful surgical stone clearance for recurrent stones and cholangitis. The present paper describes the results of a technique of in-continuity side-to-side jejunoduodenal anastomosis (JDA) that provides endoscopic access to the hepaticojejunostomy and intrahepatic ducts. This operation is compared to other techniques in a critical appraisal of various biliary access procedures described for long-term management of intrahepatic -calculi.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of clinical data of 13 patients who underwent biliary drainage procedures with access loops for intrahepatic calculi during the period March 1990 to December 2000 was performed. The postoperative course of patients and the feasibility of postoperative endoscopic access to the hepaticojejunostomy and intrahepatic ductal system in treatment of recurrent cholangitis were assessed. Nine patients underwent JDA, two underwent permanent-access hepaticojejunostomy (PAH) and two others underwent an interposition hepaticojejunoduodenostomy (IHJ).

RESULTS

The analysis revealed no major procedure-related complications or mortality. Endoscopic access (using forward-viewing gastroscope) was possible in 100% of cases following JDA, and with difficulty in both cases after PAH. Endoscopic access in the two patients with IHJ failed because of technical reasons. Recurrent cholangitis was seen in seven patients (54%) - two out of two patients in the PAH group, one out of two in the IHJ group and four out of nine in the JDA group. This required 12 endotherapy sessions (mean: 1.5 procedures per patient).

CONCLUSION

In-continuity side-to-side JDA allows easy access of conventional gastroduodenoscopes to the biliary tree for removal of recurrent/residual intrahepatic stones. The technique has advantages over other access loop procedures in the long term management of recurrent intrahepatic stones.

Long-term outcome of hepaticojejunostomy with routine access loop formation following iatrogenic bile duct injury

BACKGROUND

Hepaticojejunostomy is the 'gold standard' procedure for repairing iatrogenic bile duct injuries. The aim of this study was to examine the long-term outcome following hepaticojejunostomy for iatrogenic bile duct injury and the utility of routine construction of an access loop.

METHODS

Patients with iatrogenic biliary injuries were treated with hepaticojejunostomy and access loop by a single surgeon. Injuries were classified according to the Bismuth level. An 'excellent' outcome was achieved if the patient never experienced jaundice or cholangitis in the follow-up period, and the outcome was 'good' if the patient developed symptoms but was asymptomatic for more than 12 months.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients underwent such operation. There was one operative death. Thirty-three patients were followed for 3 years or more (mean follow-up 80.4 (range 46-118) months). Thirteen of the 33 injuries were Bismuth level II, 13 were Bismuth level III and seven were Bismuth level IV. Outcome was dependent on the Bismuth level (P < 0.001). It was excellent in all 13 patients with Bismuth level II injuries, excellent in seven and good in six of the 13 patients with Bismuth level III injuries, and excellent in one and good in six of the seven patients with Bismuth level IV injuries. Moreover, the need for access loop intervention was dependent on the Bismuth level (P < 0.001). No patient with Bismuth level II injury required intervention, compared with five of 13 with Bismuth level III and six of seven with Bismuth level IV injuries.

CONCLUSION

Biliary reconstruction affords satisfactory long-term outcome. The likelihood of needing the access loop for radiological intervention is dependent on the Bismuth level. The authors recommend that an access loop be constructed in all patients with Bismuth level III and IV injuries.

A subcutaneous or subfascial jejunostomy is beneficial in the surgical management of extrahepatic bile duct cancers

BACKGROUND

Extrahepatic bile duct cancers are rare tumors with a dismal prognosis. Even after a resection, obstructive cholestasis and other biliary complications are the rule. To facilitate retrograde access to the biliary tree for treatment of such biliary complications, a modified Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is constructed such that the afferent limb is brought up as a subcutaneous or subfascial jejunostomy (SJ). The safety and utility of construction of an SJ was evaluated in patients with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

METHODS

From 1985 to 1997, 24 patients with extrahepatic bile duct cancers received an SJ as part of their management. Demographic data, operative data, tumor characteristics, and postoperative courses were retrospectively reviewed. All but 3 patients were followed to the time of death.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 62 +/- 9 years. The tumor was resected in 17 patients. Major complications occurred in 5 patients (21%). There was 1 operative death (4%). None of the complications could be attributed to construction of the SJ, although 1 patient had a soft tissue infection at the site of the percutaneous access of the SJ. Frequent dilatations of biliary strictures were required in 5 patients, and 1 patient eventually required insertion of an internal biliary stent. These procedures could all be accomplished through the SJ.

CONCLUSIONS

The SJ is a technically simple and safe addition to the management of resectable and unresectable extrahepatic bile duct cancers, particularly proximal lesions. The procedure facilitates brachytherapy if indicated, and it allows convenient management of postoperative biliary complications, including recurrent strictures.

Subparietal hepaticojejunal access loop for the long-term management of intrahepatic stones

BACKGROUND

The subparietal hepaticojejunal biliary access loop is a recognized technique for the long-term management of primary intrahepatic stone disease. This paper assesses the results of this approach in a series of South African patients.

METHODS

Between 1985 and 1997, 21 patients, of mean age 34 (range 24-66) years, underwent surgical extraction of intrahepatic stones and formation of an hepaticojejunal access loop. The access loop was subsequently used for further stone removal and stricture dilatation. Patients were followed prospectively (median 47 months) and details of the number and type of procedures performed, stone clearance rates, morbidity and subsequent outcome were recorded.

RESULTS

The distribution of intrahepatic stones was left lobe in 13 of 21 patients, right lobe in one and bilateral in seven. Six patients underwent additional left lobectomy at the initial operation because of associated atrophy of the left lobe. Following operation, stone removal and/or stricture dilatation was performed on 97 occasions (median 4 (range 0-24) procedures per patient). Complete stone clearance was achieved in 17 of 21 patients with partial clearance in the remaining four. There were no major complications and no deaths associated with the procedures.

CONCLUSION

The subparietal access loop permits long-term access to the intrahepatic ducts allowing removal of stones and dilatation of strictures with minimal patient discomfort and low morbidity.

Percutaneous transhepatic endoscopic electrohydraulic lithotripsy of biliary tract calculi after orthotopic liver transplantation

The development of biliary tract calculi after orthotopic liver transplantation presents a unique clinical problem. Previously described techniques for removing biliary stones by shock wave lithotripsy, litholytic therapy with oral bile acids, and endoscopic mechanical extraction may be ineffective or contraindicated in liver transplant patients. For this reason, percutaneous transhepatic electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) was performed using an 11 French flexible ureteroscope in two pediatric patients who developed biliary tract calculi following orthotopic liver transplant. There were no complications and postoperative follow-up over 4 years has been uneventful. To our knowledge, these represent the first reported cases of percutaneous transhepatic endoscopic EHL to fragment biliary tract stones in a transplanted liver, which for us has been a safe and effective therapeutic option.

The Hutson loop and prosthesis: clinical uses in hepato-biliary intervention

A number of method of making a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy have been advocated to help the radiologist gain access to the biliary system. We have found markers and rings unsatisfactory and therefore designed and tested our own prosthesis. Reliable rapid access is easily achieved using this device with a much reduced radiation dose to both patient and radiologist. The prosthesis has been used for the past 3 years, and the last 23 patients are reviewed. Seven patients have required repeated interventions via the loop and we present the findings and our results.

Management of bile duct injuries and strictures following cholecystectomy

During 7057 conventional cholecystectomies (1972-1991), 16 bile duct injuries occurred, amounting to a risk of 0.22%. A total of 1022 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed without such a complication since April 1990. In a retrospective study, 64 patients (16 of our patients and 48 referrals) with an injury or stricture due to conventional cholecystectomy were investigated. In 14 of our 16 patients the injury was recognized and immediately repaired with a good long-term result of 93%, including one successful repair of a subsequent stricture. Two cases of unrecognized injury were managed by nonoperative means. The group of 48 referred patients comprised 10 early postoperative complications (21%) and 38 strictures after an "uneventful" cholecystectomy. Of the 64 total patients, 10 (16%) underwent nonoperative treatment, and 54 required surgery. The mean follow-up period after surgery was 7.4 +/- 4.9 years. Most cases (93%) were repaired by bilioenteric anastomosis (i.e., foremost hepaticojejunostomy) with an 18% restricture rate. Including second and third repairs for restricture, a total of 60 operations (14 primary and 46 secondary reconstructions) were performed without hospital mortality. A good long-term result after stricture repair was achieved in 75% of the patients, whereas 17% had a poor outcome owing to restricture or death (10% had related mortality within 10 years). The other 8% had a moderate result due to recurrent cholangitis. Thus immediate repair of a bile duct injury offers the better chance of a favorable prognosis compared to secondary stricture repair.

Appraisal of hepaticocutaneous jejunostomy in the management of hepatolithiasis

Hepaticocutaneous jejunostomy offers the advantage of permanent percutaneous access to the biliary tract in patients with complex biliary problems. The long-term value, however, has not been assessed. In 41 patients who underwent this procedure for intrahepatic stones, there was no hospital mortality, and the postoperative morbidity rate was 10%. The presence of the cutaneous stoma facilitated postoperative flexible choledochoscopy for dilatation of biliary strictures and extraction of residual stones. On follow-up, symptoms recurred in 12 patients (29%) at a median time of 27 months (range: 1 to 97 months). Reconstruction of the cutaneous stoma and flexible choledochoscopy via the jejunal loop helped to resolve the acute cholangitis (n = 4) and to eradicate recurrent stones in all cases. Hepaticocutaneous jejunostomy was also beneficial in the management of three patients who experienced further recurrence of symptoms. There was no major difficulty in reconstructing the cutaneous stoma and in performing choledochoscopy via the jejunal loop. The overall complication rate related to the cutaneous stoma was 15%. Repeat laparotomy for recurrent disease was required in only one patient who underwent a second bilio-enteric anastomosis for a nondilatable left duct stricture. We conclude that hepaticocutaneous jejunostomy is a valuable procedure in the management of hepatolithiasis.

Benign biliary strictures. Surgery or endoscopy?

OBJECTIVE

This study compared the results of surgery and endoscopy for benign biliary strictures in one institution, over the same period of time and with the same outcome definitions.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Surgery is considered the treatment of choice, offering more than 80% long-term success. Endoscopic stenting has been reported to yield similar results and might be a useful alternative.

METHODS

In this nonrandomized retrospective study, 101 patients with benign biliary strictures were included. Thirty-five patients were treated surgically and 66 by endoscopic stenting. Patient characteristics, initial trauma, previous repairs, and level of obstruction were comparable in both groups. Surgical therapy consisted of constructing a biliary-digestive anastomosis in normal ductal tissue. Endoscopic therapy consisted of placement of endoprostheses, with trimonthly elective exchange for a 1-year period.

RESULTS

Mean length of follow-up was 50 +/- 3.8 and 42 +/- 4.2 months for surgery and endoscopy, respectively. Early complications occurred more frequently in the surgically treated group (p < 0.03). Late complications during therapy, occurred only in the endoscopically treated group. In 46 patients, the endoprostheses were eventually removed. Recurrent stricturing occurred in 17% in both surgical and endoscopic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery and endoscopy for benign biliary strictures have similar long-term success rates. Indications for surgery are complete transections, failed previous repairs, and failures of endoscopic therapy. All other patients are candidates for endoscopic stenting as the initial treatment.

Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy with subcutaneous access and the use of Gianturco stents for the management of biliary tract strictures

The need to control recurrent biliary strictures implies the practice of repeated major surgical procedures. The hepaticojejunostomy with subcutaneous jejunal access (Chen's procedure) allows the permanent option of a non-operative management of recurrent biliary tract anastomosis complications. Through the subcutaneous jejunal access, the application of a Gianturco metallic prosthesis is permitted and the correction of biliary-intestinal anastomosis strictures with non-operative methods is possible. This report is a review of a series of 20 patients treated with the Chen procedure, of whom 3 patients also had implantation of Gianturco stents via hepaticojejunostomy with subcutaneous access.

Endoscopic stenting for post-operative biliary strictures

This study evaluates the efficacy of endoscopic stenting in 70 patients with noncomplete post-operative biliary strictures. The treatment consisted of placement of two 10 F gauge straight endoprostheses with elective exchange trimonthly, for a 1-year period. Successful endoprosthesis placement was accomplished in 66 of 70 patients (94%). In all 66 patients jaundice subsided. During the stenting period six patients had an operation and six died. In 46 patients the endoprostheses were removed. The mean period of follow-up was 42 months (range, 4 to 99 months). Excellent (asymptomatic, normal, or stable liver enzymes) and good (only one episode of cholangitis) responses were achieved in 83%; restricturing occurred after stent removal in 17%. Prolonged biliary stenting appears to be a safe and effective treatment modality for benign post-operative strictures and a valid alternative to surgery.

Combined surgical and interventional radiological approach for complex benign biliary tract obstruction

In patients with complicated high benign biliary strictures surgical technique alone cannot exclude the possibility of recurrent problems, and hepatic atrophy/hypertrophy, portal hypertension and intrahepatic stones may all complicate surgical management. A multidisciplinary approach to these complex cases, which minimizes the need for repeated surgical interventions, has been pursued. Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy was performed and an extended limb of the jejunum brought to the abdominal wall to allow access for later radiological intervention. Over a 30-month period 58 biliary-enteric anastomoses for benign disease were performed. Seventeen of these 58 patients were managed using the combined approach. Ten of these 17 patients had complex postcholecystectomy strictures and seven had strictures resulting from inflammatory disease, hepatic resection or congenital problems. A new classification of results of management of bile duct strictures is proposed. Seven patients were classified as 'excellent', six 'good', two 'fair' and two 'poor'. Results were obtained at a mean follow-up of 16 months and it seems likely that in some patients major surgical reinterventions were avoided.

[Iatrogenic damage of the bile ducts caused by cholecystectomy. Treatment and results]

This report concerns 44 patients with iatrogenic injuries to the bile ducts treated at the Mannheim University Clinic from 1973 to 1987. Group A: 12 own patients with lesions of the common bile duct among 6020 operations for cholelithiasis, i.e. a risk of 0.19%. All 12 lesions were recognized during operation and immediately repaired with eventual success. Group B: 32 patients referred to us from another hospital after cholecystectomy alone or previous repair. 11 of these patients had progressive jaundice in the immediate postoperative period (1. to 9. week) due to unrecognized bile duct injury. The other 21 patients developed strictures after an uneventful postoperative course within time intervals varying from 3 months to 23 years. 72% of patients (Group B) had reconstructive surgery within two years after last operation in another hospital. We performed 47 reconstructive operations in 42 patients without hospital mortality including 5 second or third operations for recurrent stricture. Biliary-intestinal anastomosis (70%) as sutured mucosa-to-mucosa anastomosis was the most favoured method of reconstruction (30 Roux-Y hepaticojejunostomies and 3 choledochoduodenostomies). An end-to-end anastomosis was only performed in 3 cases of plain transection of the common duct. In management of high biliary strictures (type III and IV according to Bismuth's classification) preference would be given to Hepp-Couinaud's modification of hepaticojejunostomy using the left hepatic duct for a long side-to-side anastomosis. Overall morbidity amounted to 28% while the rate of relaparotomy for surgical complications was 13% (n = 6 without postoperative death). 10 patients died since reconstructive surgery, death being independent from bile duct injury in 5 cases. The injury related one-year-mortality was 4.5%. Overall stricture recurrence rate was 15% (18% for hepaticojejunostomy) with a mean follow-up of 72 months. Local infection was the most obvious cause of recurrence, thus a two stage procedure with postponement of reconstructive surgery must be recommended in case of subhepatic abscess or biliary fistula. Including second and third repairs, a good longterm result was achieved in over 80% of patients.

Combined surgical and radiologic approach to recurrent cholangitis and intrahepatic pigment stones

A 37-yr-old white woman from Australia presented with ascending cholangitis and jaundice and was found to have multiple brown, "earthy" pigment stones in the biliary tree, including the segmental ducts. Removal of these stones was accomplished via a subcutaneously placed afferent jejunal limb of a choledochojejunostomy using balloon dilators. The jejunal conduit also served as an access for periodic removal of newly formed stones. This combined surgical and radiologic approach is an effective way of removing recurring pigment stones. The afferent jejunal limb can also be used to perfuse dissolution agents, if necessary, via catheters placed in the biliary tree.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis: biliary drainage and duct dilatation

A further extension of the U-tube technique is described in the treatment of six patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis who developed progressive jaundice and recurrent biliary sepsis. All six patients had operative intrahepatic duct dilatation and U-tube placement. Three patients in addition had a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunal anastomosis. Five patients are improved and are well after a median follow-up period of 56 months. Two patients have had the U-tube removed electively. Three patients with progressive disease required further percutaneous catheter dilatation of intrahepatic strictures via the U-tube tract. Application of the technique permits evaluation of the biliary system by tube cholangiography and provides access in complex cases for repeated therapeutic intrahepatic stricture dilatation.

Long term biliary access by modified hepaticojejunostomy for high bile duct stricture

Patients with recurrent high bile duct strictures pose special problems for management. Relief of obstruction by hepaticojejunostomy is usually possible but the standard technique does not permit long term access. Six patients with benign strictures involving hepatic ducts have been treated by a simple modification of hepaticojejunostomy retaining access for either balloon dilatation of intrahepatic strictures or investigation and treatment at a later stage if problems recur. Employing a longer than usual Roux-en-Y loop, the sutured anastomosis of right and left hepatic ducts is performed 10-15 cm from the free end of jejunum. Silastic tubes are placed into each hepatic duct crossing the anastomosis to exit from the free end of the jejunum which is closed around the tubes. The closed end of jejunum is buried in the peritoneum deep to linea alba and the tubes emerge in the epigastrium. Safe access is retained via the tubes. If the tubes are removed, a 'mini-lap' will expose the Roux loop for endoscopic or radiological access.

Dilatation of biliary strictures through a stomatized jejunal limb

This preliminary report details the radiologists' contribution to the combined surgical-radiologic approach to maintaining patency of the biliary tree that may benefit certain categories of patients with biliary strictures. We have accessed the biliary tree through the stomatized afferent limb of a side to side biliary jejunal anastomosis in 18 patients. Our early experience with this technique suggests that we may be able to maintain patency of biliary strictures without the need for permanent indwelling catheters or stents.