Transient Liver Dysfunction after Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer Patients

A silicone disc for liver retraction in laparoscopic gastrectomy reduces the postoperative increase in the liver enzyme level

PURPOSE

To compare changes in liver enzyme levels on postoperative day 1 between patients with and without silicone disc (SD) use during liver retraction in laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer and laparoscopic gastric mobilization for esophageal cancer.

METHODS

This prospective randomized controlled phase II trial was conducted between June 30, 2020, and November 30, 2022, to investigate the benefits of using an SD with a Nathanson liver retractor (NLR) compared with those using an NLR in laparoscopic gastrectomy and gastric mobilization. The primary endpoint was the change in transaminase level on postoperative day 1.

RESULTS

A total of 86 patients received randomized assignments and were included in the analysis, with 44 assigned to the SD (-) group and 42 to the SD (+) group. On postoperative day 1, the SD (+) group showed a significantly lower increase in the aspartate aminotransferase levels than the SD (-) group (SD [+], 94.4% vs. SD [-], 179.8%; p = 0.012). Similarly, the SD (+) group showed a significantly lower increase in alanine aminotransferase levels than the SD (-) group (SD [+], 71.6% vs. SD [-], 201.5%; p = 0.014).

CONCLUSION

In laparoscopic gastrectomy, the use of an SD combined with an NLR appears to mitigate postoperative liver dysfunction.

Liver Dysfunction After Use of Nathanson Retractor During Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer

Background: Cardiopulmonary complications and liver dysfunction are also specific complications and problems associated with laparoscopic surgery. The main causes of postoperative liver dysfunction, which may often occur after laparoscopic surgery, include carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum and ligation of the aberrant left hepatic artery. Hepatic steatosis may develop as a natural consequence of neoadjuvant therapy, although rarely, owing to chemotherapy. Nathanson retractor may cause a prolonged elevation in liver enzymes of these patients compared with those who do not receive neoadjuvant therapy. Materials and Methods: The data of 151 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy between January 2017 and January 2022 for histologically proven primary gastric cancer in our clinic were retrospectively reviewed. Results: The mean length of hospital stay was 6.21 days. The mean time normalization of the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) value was 2.45 ± 1.83 (range, 0-12) days postoperatively. The analysis of the correlation between the preoperative and postoperative 1-day values of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and AST revealed a significant difference between the preoperative and postoperative 1-day median values of both parameters (P < .001). Each one unit increase in ALT led to an increase of 0.338 days in the length of intensive care stay and an increase of 0.345 days in the overall length of hospital stay. As the time to normalization of the AST value increased, the length of both intensive care stay and hospital stay increased. Each one unit increase in AST resulted in an increase of 0.316 days in the length of intensive care stay and an increase of 0.376 days in the overall length of hospital stay. Conclusion: Alternative retraction methods can be used safely in laparoscopic surgery for gastric cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy. We are of the opinion that the Nathanson retractor should be used only during dissection of the relevant regions to shorten the intraoperative intermittent release or the time of use.

Short-term outcomes of D2 lymphadenectomy plus complete mesogastric excision for gastric cancer: a propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

Our previous study has demonstrated the surgical advantages of D2 lymphadenectomy plus complete mesogastric excision (D2 + CME) in gastric cancer surgery. To further verify the safety of D2 + CME procedure, we conducted this large-scale, observational cohort study and applied propensity score matching (PSM) approach to compare D2 + CME with conventional D2 in terms of short-term outcomes in gastric cancer patients.

METHODS

Data on 855 patients from Tongji Hospital who underwent laparoscopic-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) with R0 resection (496 in the conventional D2 cohort and 359 in the D2 + CME cohort) between Dec 12, 2013 and Dec 28, 2017 were retrieved from prospectively maintained clinical database. After PSM analysis at a 1:1 ratio, each cohort included 219-matched patients. Short-term outcomes, including surgical results, morbidity, and mortality within 30 days after the operation, were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

In this large-scale, observational cohort study based on PSM analysis, the D2 + CME procedure showed less intra-laparoscopic blood loss, more lymph node harvest, and faster postoperative flatus than the conventional D2 procedure. However, both the overall and severe postoperative adverse events (Clavien-Dindo classification grade ≥ III a) seemed comparable between two cohorts.

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that D2 + CME was associated with better short-term outcomes than conventional D2 dissection for patients with resectable gastric cancer.

Clinical significance of aberrant left hepatic artery during gastrectomy: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Vascular variations are frequently encountered during surgery. Approximately thirty percent of these variations are aberrant left hepatic arteries originating from the left gastric artery.

AIM

To summarize the safety and feasibility of aberrant left hepatic arteries (ALHA) ligation in gastric cancer patients who underwent laparoscopic-assisted gastrectomy (LAG).

METHODS

The literature search was systematically performed on databases including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. The publishing date of eligible studies was from inception to June 2021.

RESULTS

A total of nine studies were included according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria in this review. The variation rate of ALHA ranged from 7.00% to 20.70%, and four studies compared the differences between the ALHA ligation group and the preservation group. Only one study showed worse postoperative outcomes in the ALHA ligation group. In all the included studies, a significant difference was found between the ALHA ligation group and the preservation group in terms of postoperative liver enzymes after LAG. However, there was no significant difference in the number of retrieved lymph nodes between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, it is not always safe and feasible for surgeons to ligate the ALHA during LAG surgery, and it is necessary for gastric cancer patients to undergo preoperative examination to clarify the ALHA subtypes, measure the diameter of the ALHA, and determine whether the patients have chronic liver disease.

The effect and clinical significance of using nathanson liver retractor on liver function tests in laparoscopic gastric cancer surgery

ABSTRACT Aim: There are very few studies in the literature investigating the changes caused by the Nathanson retractors in liver function tests (LFT) after LG and its clinical significance. The present study investigated the changes made by the Nathanson retractor used during LG on LFT and its clinical significance. Material and Method: The data of 236 patients, who underwent radical gastrectomy for primary gastric cancer at Surgical Oncology Unit in the period between January 2015 and January 2020 were retrospective studied. The patients were divided into two groups: laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG; 136 cases) and open gastrectomy (OG; 106 cases). Patients who have undergone cholecystectomy, with primary or secondary liver tumors, with chronic hepatic disease, who have preoperative high ALT, AST and bilirubin values were excluded from the study. LFT were measured preoperatively and postoperative day 1 (LFT1), LFT3, LFT5 and LFT7. LFT: ALT, AST and Total bilirubin (BIL). Results: ALT1, ALT3, ALT5, ALT7 ALT values and AST1, AST3, AST5 AST values of the patients in the LG group were found to be significantly higher (P <0.001). Mean total bilirubin values of the groups were similar (P >0.05). In order to evaluate how the increase in LFT due to the use of the Nathanson retractors reflected on the patients' clinic, we divided the patients who underwent LG into two groups based on ALT increase in ALT1: Normal and Elevated. The in-hospital mortality rates (P = 0.080) and oral nutrition time (P = 0.913) of the groups were similar. No liver infarction developed in any of the groups. The duration of stay in the ICU was significantly longer in individuals with elevated LFT (P = 0.019). Conclusion: Although the use of the Nathanson retractor during LG causes an increase in liver function tests, this does not cause major clinical problems in patients. Key Words: Gastrectomy; gastric cancer; laparoscopy; liver enzymes; liver dysfunciton

Comparison of the Pretzelflex Retractor and Nathanson Retractor in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

PURPOSE

Retraction of the left lobe of the liver is an important step in most bariatric surgical procedures. The left lobe of the liver may be enlarged, and laceration, hematoma, or necrosis may develop in the liver due to retraction. In this study, the results of use of the Nathanson retractor (NR) and PretzelFlex retractor (PFR) in the patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) were compared.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The patients who underwent LSG were divided into three groups based on the type of liver retraction device used. Group 1: NR was used fixed during the operation; Group 2: PF retractor was used; Group 3: NR were used only for fundus dissection and when necessary. All groups were evaluated in terms of demographic characteristics, liver function tests, and developing complications.

RESULTS

The study was conducted with a total of 120 consecutive patients. Operation time in the second group was found to be significantly lower than the other two groups (p = 0.009; p = 0.001; p < 0.01). The duration of retractor use in the first group was significantly higher than the other two groups (p = 0.001; p = 0.001; p < 0.01). While aspartate aminotransferase (AST) values were found to be high in Group 1, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values were found to be high in Groups 1 and 3.

CONCLUSION

PFR has shorter operating and retraction times. It causes less measurable liver damage. Although the NR will be used, intermittent use causes less damage to the liver as in PFR.

Risk Factors for Postoperative Liver Enzyme Elevation After Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND/AIM

Laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) is more frequently associated with postoperative liver enzyme elevation (PLEE) than open gastrectomy in phase III clinical trials for Japanese gastric cancer patients. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for PLEE after LG for gastric cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study enrolled 153 consecutive patients with gastric cancer who underwent LG. The patient characteristics, the liver retraction method [silicone disc (SD) or Nathanson liver retractor (NLR)], and perioperative outcomes were compared between patients with and without PLEE.

RESULTS

PLEE was observed in 26 patients (17%). The patients with PLEE exhibited longer operative times (p=0.005) and more frequent use of the NLR for liver retraction (p=0.022). In the multivariate analysis, liver retraction using the NLR (p=0.003) and aberrant left hepatic artery (ALHA) ligation (p=0.042) were independent risk factors of PLEE.

CONCLUSION

Liver retraction with the SD during LG was shown to be the safer method that is less likely to cause postoperative liver dysfunction. ALHA preservation may contribute to avoiding postoperative liver dysfunction.

Liver retraction using n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate glue during laparoscopic cholecystectomy

There might be a thick "protrusion" in the visceral surface of hepatic quadrate lobe during the laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), which affects the surgical fields and consequently triggers high risks of biliary tract injury. Although n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue has been applied to laparoscopic upper abdominal surgery for liver retraction, there is still no consensus on its safety and feasibility in LC. In this study, we investigated the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of liver retraction using NBCA glue for these patients which have the thick "protrusion" on the square leaf surface of the liver during LC.Fifty-seven patients presenting thick "protrusion" hepatic quadrate lobe were included in our retrospective study. We performed LC in the presence of NBCA glue (n = 30, NBCA group) and absence of NBCA glue (n = 27, non-NBCA group), respectively. NBCA was used to fix the thick "protrusion" of the liver leaves to the hepatic viscera surface, which contributed to the revelation of the gallbladder triangle. The operation time, blood loss, postoperative hospitalization, and liver function were compared between the 2 groups.Both the groups' patients accomplished the operation in the laparoscopy. There was no mortality and no additional incision during operation. No severe complications including bile duct injury were available after surgery and no postoperative NBCA-related complications occurred after 9- to 30 months' follow-up. The time of operation in NBCA group showed significant decrease compared with that of non-NBCA group (48.33 ± 16.15 vs 65.00 ± 22.15 minutes, P < .01). There were no significant differences in blood loss, postoperative hospital stays, and the preoperative and postoperative liver function between the two groups (P > .05). Besides, no significant differences were noticed in major clinical characteristics between the 2 groups (P > .05).Liver retraction using NBCA during LC for thick "protrusion" hepatic quadrate lobe patients is safe, effective, and feasible.

Novel use of the Nathanson liver retractor to prevent postoperative transient liver dysfunction during laparoscopic gastrectomy

INTRODUCTION

The Nathanson liver retractor (N) has been known to cause postoperative transient liver dysfunction (POTLD) in laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG). To reduce the incidence of POTLD, specifically we added to the retractor the use of a disk (N + D) to reduce the localized pressure, and furthermore repositioned the retractor every 30 minutes (N + D TM) to reduce the liver retraction time. Before and after introducing this retractor, we assessed four consecutive retraction procedures. These included the following disk suspension methods (D), N, N + D, and N + D TM.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 85 patients who underwent an LG. In the D, N, N + D, and N + D TM groups, we evaluated the postoperative serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values.

RESULTS

For the D and N groups, the AST value significantly increased from the immediate post-operation time point (IPOT) to the third postoperative day (POD3). Additionally, the ALT value increased from IPOT to POD7. In the N + D group, the only decrease was in the ALT value at IPOT compared to the N group. The N + D TM group decreased in both the AST value from IPOT to POD3 and in the ALT value from IPOT to POD7, compared to the N group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate the importance of reducing both the localized pressure and liver retraction time when using the Nathanson retractor to prevent POTLD during an LG. To make this possible, we successfully introduced the use of both a disk and the repositioning of the retractor at 30 minute intervals.

A Novel Technique to Predict Liver Damage After Laparoscopic Gastrectomy From the Stomach Volume Overlapping the Liver by Preoperative Computed Tomography

BACKGROUND

During laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG), it is necessary to manipulate the lateral segment of the liver to secure the surgical field. Liver retraction during surgery often causes liver dysfunction after LG. However, no previous studies have used preoperative image evaluations to predict postoperative liver damage associated with surgical retraction. We aimed to predict postoperative liver damage after LG.

METHODS

In all, 117 consecutive patients with gastric cancer who underwent LG were included in this study. Using preoperative computed tomography (CT), the volume of the stomach overlapping the liver was integrated and calculated as the liver projecting stomach volume (LPSV). The liver projection ratio (LPR) was calculated by dividing the LPSV by the volume of the whole stomach. The relationships among liver damage, the LPSV and LPR were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 112 patients were divided into two groups as follows: 33 patients in the liver dysfunction group (D group) and 79 patients in the non-dysfunction group (N group). The LPSV was significantly larger in the D group than in the N group (median 77.1 vs 50.1 cm³; p = 0.0061). Similarly, LPR values in the D group were significantly higher than those in the N group (median 33.6 vs 26.2%; p = 0.003). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated a statistically significant ability of the LPSV and LPR to predict postoperative liver damage (area under the curve; 0.705 and 0.735, respectively). Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the increase in the LPR was an independent predictor of postoperative liver damage (odds ratio: 1.042; 95% confidence interval: 1.009-1.078; p = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

We have developed a novel technique for predicting postoperative liver damage associated with surgical liver retraction following LG. This method confirms the degree of the LPSV and LPR of the stomach via preoperative CT.

A novel liver retraction method in laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Retracting the lateral liver segment during laparoscopic distal gastrectomy is important for achieving an optimal surgical field. However, excessive force may injure the liver, causing temporary abnormalities of liver function tests after laparoscopic surgery. We developed a new liver retraction method and assessed its safety and utility.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed records in our surgical database of consecutive surgical patients who underwent laparoscopic distal gastrectomy for early gastric cancer. We divided the 229 patients into two groups based on the liver retraction method used, either flexible liver retraction with clipping and suturing (FLICS) or the Nathanson retractor (NR). One-to-one propensity score matching was performed to match patients, resulting in the records of 53 pairs of cases extracted from the database. Operative and postoperative outcomes were assessed, including following the values of serum liver enzymes, total bilirubin, and C-reactive protein until postoperative day 30.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in patient characteristics or preoperative data in the two groups. The retraction method was not changed intraoperatively for any patients. The operative time was significantly shorter in the FLICS group, but the amount of bleeding did not differ. Liver injury was not observed as a result of liver retraction during surgery. In both groups, serum liver enzymes temporarily increased after surgery but improved rapidly thereafter. The postoperative increases in aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and C-reactive protein levels were significantly lower in the FLICS than in the NR group. No serious complications associated with liver retraction were observed in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our new liver retraction technique provided an optimal surgical field without inducing liver dysfunction. It is a simple, safe, and effective liver retraction technique.

Liver Retraction Using n-Butyl-2-Cyanoacrylate (NBCA) Glue during Laparoscopic Splenectomy and Azygoportal Disconnection in Cirrhotic Patients

Background

Although liver retraction using n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue has been applied to laparoscopic upper abdominal surgery in noncirrhotic patients, there is still no consensus on its safety and feasibility for cirrhotic patients. In this study, we aimed to investigate the safety and effectiveness of liver retraction using NBCA glue during laparoscopic splenectomy and azygoportal disconnection (LSD) for gastroesophageal varices and hypersplenism secondary to liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension.

Methods

Thirty-nine gastroesophageal varices and hypersplenism secondary to liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension patients were included in our study. We performed LSD in the presence of NBCA glue (n = 22, NBCA group) and absence of NBCA glue (n = 17, n-NBCA group), respectively. The operation time, blood loss, postoperative hospitalization, and liver function were compared between the two groups.

Results

There was no mortality during the operation. One patient in non-NBCA group received open surgery due to parenchyma hemorrhage. Postoperative pleural effusion occurred in 2 cases of the NBCA group and 1 of the non-NBCA group. One showed left subphrenic abscess in the non-NBCA group. No postoperative bleeding occurred after 9-30 months of follow-up. The time of operation in NBCA group was significantly shorter than those in n-NBCA group (198.86±17.86 versus 217.81±20.25min, P<0.01). Blood loss in NBCA group was significantly lower than non-NBCA group (159.09±56.98 versus 212.50±88.51 ml, P<0.05). The levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were increased on day 1 after LSD and decreased to normal level on day 7 after LSD in both groups. There was no significant difference in postoperative hospitalization and liver function between the two groups.

Conclusion

Liver retraction using NBCA glue during LSD for gastroesophageal varices and hypersplenism secondary to liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension is safe, effective, and feasible.

Application of Laparoscopic Gastrectomy in Obese Patients (BMI≥30 kg/m2) with Gastric Cancer: A Comparison With Open Gastrectomy Regarding Short-term Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Few studies have compared the surgical outcomes of laparoscopic (LG) and open (OG) gastrectomy in obese patients (BMI≥30 kg/m) with gastric cancer. The current study aimed to investigate the short-term outcomes of LG in this group of patients.

METHODS

A total of 33 LG cases and 23 OG cases (BMI≥30 kg/m) were identified from our gastric cancer database. Clinicopathologic features, operative details, laboratory examination, and postoperative outcomes were compared between both groups. Regression analysis was used to determine the effects of BMI on intraoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

The 2 groups had comparable clinicopathologic characteristics. LG was associated with significantly lesser blood loss, whereas both also groups had a similar operative time, and number of harvested lymph nodes. However, regression analysis indicated that increased BMI affected the operative time and blood loss in patients that underwent OG but had little effect on patients who received LG. The elevation of inflammatory factors (WBC, CRP) was lower in LG than in OG, postoperatively. Postoperative hepatic (alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, albumin) and renal (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen) functions in the LG group were not worse than in the OG group. The time to first flatus, initiation of diet, hospitalization, and postoperative complications seemed superior in LG than in OG, but these differences were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

LG can be safely performed in obese gastric cancer patients. Compared with conventional OG, LG is less invasive and is characterized by less blood loss and milder surgical trauma. LG is also less adversely affected by increased BMI.

Comparison of long-term survival and immediate postoperative liver function after laparoscopic and open distal gastrectomy for early gastric cancer patients with liver cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Several studies have suggested no difference in the liver function of early gastric cancer (EGC) patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) between laparoscopic and open distal gastrectomy. However, the number of patients and comparison of long-term survival rates between the two groups are limited. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term survival and immediate postoperative liver function of EGC patients with LC after laparoscopic and open distal gastrectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The clinical data of EGC patients with LC who had no other malignancy and underwent distal gastrectomy at Asan Medical Center between January 2005 and April 2013 were investigated retrospectively. All patients were divided into two groups: the open group (OG) and laparoscopic group (LG). The clinicopathologic data of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

The number of patients in each group was 48 and 27 in the OG and LG, respectively. There were no significant differences in the age, sex ratio, ASA score, cause of liver cirrhosis, preoperative Child-Pugh classification, tumor location, TNM stage, total postoperative drain amount, albumin, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, prothrombin time, morbidity and recurrence rate. Shorter hospital stay, longer operative time and more retrieved lymph nodes were observed in LG. The long-term overall survival rate was not different between the two groups (P = 0.356).

CONCLUSIONS

For EGC patients with liver cirrhosis, especially Child A cirrhosis, laparoscopic or laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy can be a safe surgical procedure in comparison to open distal gastrectomy in terms of the long-term survival rate and immediate postoperative liver function.

A Multi-institutional, Prospective, Phase II Feasibility Study of Laparoscopy-Assisted Distal Gastrectomy with D2 Lymph Node Dissection for Locally Advanced Gastric Cancer (JLSSG0901)

BACKGROUND

The efficacy and safety outcomes of laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) with D2 lymph node dissection for locally advanced gastric cancer remain unclear. Therefore, we conducted a randomized, controlled phase II trial to confirm the feasibility of LADG in terms of technical safety, and short-term surgical outcomes were investigated.

METHODS

Eligibility criteria included pre-operatively diagnosed advanced gastric cancer that could be treated by distal gastrectomy with D2 lymph node dissection; MP, SS, and SE without involvement of other organs; and N0-2 and M0. Patients aged 20-80 years were pre-operatively randomized.

RESULTS

In total, 180 patients were registered and randomized to the open (89 patients) and laparoscopic arms (91 patients). Among 91 patients in the laparoscopic arm, 86 underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy according to the study protocol. Regarding the primary endpoint of the phase II trial, the proportion of patients with either anastomotic leakage or pancreatic fistula was 4.7 % (4/86). The grade 3 or higher morbidity rate, including systemic and local complications, was 5.8 %. Conversion to open surgery was required for 1 patient (1.2 %), without any intra-operative complication. The post-operative mortality rate was 0, and no patient required readmission for surgical complications within 6 months after initial discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

The technical safety of LADG with D2 lymph node dissection for locally advanced gastric cancer was demonstrated. A phase III trial to confirm the non-inferiority of this procedure to open gastrectomy in terms of long-term outcomes is ongoing. Registered Number: UMIN 000003420 ( www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/).

Prevention of transient liver damage after laparoscopic gastrectomy via modification of the liver retraction technique using the Nathanson liver retractor

INTRODUCTION

Although laparoscopic radical gastrectomy has several advantages over conventional surgery, postoperative liver dysfunction is an unwanted complication. The major cause is considered to be use of mechanical liver retraction. To prevent liver damage after laparoscopic gastrectomy, we modified the liver retraction method: the retractor was used only after lymph node dissection along the greater curvature had been completed, and it was released before reconstruction and intermittent repositioning to avoid discoloration of the liver parenchyma. This study sought to determine whether postoperative liver dysfunction could be prevented by making these simple modifications.

METHODS

In this retrospective study involving 114 laparoscopic gastrectomy patients, postoperative serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and total bilirubin levels were compared between laparoscopic gastrectomy patients who had undergone the modified procedure and those who had not. Discoloration of the liver was classified into three groups just before the retractor was released at the end of surgery.

RESULTS

Aspartate aminotransferase and ALT levels on postoperative days 1 and 2 and the proportion of patients with elevated aspartate aminotransferase or ALT levels on postoperative day 1 were significantly lower after the modifications. ALT level on postoperative day 1 was significantly higher in the subgroup with broad liver discoloration.

CONCLUSIONS

Reducing the duration of liver retraction and moving the position of the retractor or releasing it intermittently before discoloration of the liver parenchyma may be effective for preventing postoperative liver damage.

Cardiac and Liver Marker Alterations After Laparoscopic Gynaecologic Operations

OBJECTIVE

In our study, we aimed to investigate the effect of laparoscopic procedures in which the abdominal cavity at a Trendelenburg position of 15 degrees was insufflated with CO2 on cardiac and liver markers.

METHODS

Forty patients scheduled for laparoscopic gynaecological surgery were included in the study. Venous blood samples were taken the day before operation and 6 hours after surgery, and later, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), myoglobin (MY) and d-dimer (d-D) were measured.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in the values of preoperative and postoperative ALT (16.8±9.4 and 17.8±9.3; p=0.579), AST (19.4±7 and 20.9±7.6; p=0.361) and ALP (65.2±16.2 and 63.3±16.9; p=0.609), but LDH (385.1±117.3 and 460.6±156.3; p=0.003), CK (113.8±138.5 and 247.9±283.5; p=0.0001), CK-MB (22.8±13.3 and 28.7±16; p=0.011), MY (28.1±12.9 and 138.8±129; p=0.0001) and d-D (509.5±815: 1026±1054; p=0.0001) increased significantly.

CONCLUSION

After laparoscopic operations in the Trendelenburg position, postoperative serum ALT, AST and ALP levels, remained unchanged, when compared to preoperative values, but LDH, CK, CK-MB, myoglobin and d-dimer values increased significantly.

Association between duration of carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic abdominal surgery and hepatic injury: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to accurately assess whether the duration of intraoperative carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum (CDP) is associated with the induction of hepatic injury.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases (through February 2014) to identify case-match studies that compared high-pressure CDP with low-pressure CDP or varied the duration of CDP in patients who underwent abdominal surgery. The outcome of interest was postoperative liver function (ALT, AST, TB).

RESULTS

Eleven comparative studies involving 2,235 participants were included. Overall, levels of ALT, AST, and TB (on postoperative days 1, 3, and 7) were significantly elevated in the study groups. However, the results of the subanalyses of those who underwent laparoscopic colorectal cancer resection (LCR) versus open colorectal cancer resection (OCR) and those who underwent laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGBP) versus open gastric bypass (OGBP) were inconsistent.

CONCLUSIONS

The current evidence suggests that the duration of CDP during laparoscopic abdominal surgery may be associated with hepatic injury. Additional large-scale, randomized, controlled trials are urgently needed to further confirm this.

Comparing incidence of enterocolitis after laparoscopic and open low anterior resection for stage II/III rectal cancer

INTRODUCTION

We recently observed an increased incidence of severe enterocolitis following laparoscopic low anterior resection (LAR) in some patients with stage II/III rectal cancer. This study aimed to examine the influence of laparoscopic LAR on postoperative enterocolitis compared with open LAR for Stage II/III rectal cancer.

METHODS

From April 2002 to March 2012, we evaluated 65 patients with stage II/III cancer of the upper or lower rectum who underwent LAR. Among these, 27 patients underwent open LAR and 38 underwent laparoscopic LAR. First, we compared short-term outcomes between the two groups. Next, we evaluated the incidence of postoperative enterocolitis in the laparoscopic LAR group. The clinicopathological factors were examined by univariate and odds ratio (OR) analysis.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis revealed significant differences in the occupancy rate, tumor location, depth of tumor invasion, operative time, amount of intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative enterocolitis between the laparoscopic and open groups. Postoperative enterocolitis developed in 6 of 38 patients (15.8%) in the laparoscopic group and in no patient in the open group. The occurrence of postoperative enterocolitis was significantly associated with BMI (≥28 kg/m(2) ), operative time, and wound infection in the laparoscopic LAR group (OR: 0.11, 95% confidence interval: 0.044-0.280, P < 0.05; OR: 1.40, 95% confidence interval: 1.068-1.835, P < 0.05; and OR: 15.0, 95% confidence interval, 1.752-128.310, P < 0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Postoperative enterocolitis occurred more frequently after laparoscopic LAR than after open LAR in patients with stage II/III rectal cancer. Clinical management in the perioperative period of laparoscopic LAR is necessary to prevent postoperative enterocolitis in obese patients and those with a prolonged operative time.

Liver retraction using n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate glue during single-incision laparoscopic upper abdominal surgery

BACKGROUND

Liver retraction is critical in single-incision laparoscopic upper abdominal surgery. Several techniques have been reported. Some need an additional port, whereas others are complicated and time-consuming.

METHODS

n-Butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue was applied to bond the left lateral lobe of the liver to the diaphragm in different single-incision laparoscopic upper abdominal procedures. Liver adhesion time and duration of operation were recorded, and preoperative and postoperative liver function tests carried out.

RESULTS

All procedures were completed successfully without additional ports or special instruments. The technique provided adequate workspace and a clear view. Mean liver adhesion time was 1·5 min. The maximum operating time was 310 min. Levels of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases were raised on day 1 after surgery but had returned to normal by day 7.

CONCLUSION

Creating adhesion between the left lateral lobe of the liver and the diaphragm using NBCA glue is a simple, safe and effective way of achieving liver retraction in single-incision laparoscopic upper abdominal surgery.

CO(2) pneumoperitoneum increases secretory IgA levels in the gut compared with laparotomy in an experimental animal model

BACKGROUND

Secretory immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) plays an important role in both gut and systemic immunity. This study aimed to investigate the production of s-IgA resulting from a CO2 pneumoperitoneum compared with a laparotomy.

METHODS

Using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, s-IgA in stool, malondialdehyde (MDA), and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in the ileal tissue were evaluated as markers for gut and systemic immune responses in an animal model. The rats were randomly divided into (i) anesthesia-only as the control group; (ii) laparotomy-only as the open group; and (iii) CO2 pneumoperitoneum-only as the pneumoperitoneum group. To evaluate the gut immune system in a time-dependent manner, each group was further divided into short- and long-time subgroups.

RESULTS

s-IgA levels did not increase in the open group but significantly increased in the pneumoperitoneum group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, s-IgA levels in the long-time subgroup significantly increased compared with the short-time subgroup of the pneumoperitoneum group (p < 0.05). TLR4 levels steeply and gradually increased in the open and pneumoperitoneum groups, respectively. MDA levels in the pneumoperitoneum group increased during the early phase and were significantly higher than those in the open group at 24 h (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that s-IgA levels in stool increased in the pneumoperitoneum group compared with the open group, suggesting that CO2 pneumoperitoneum may cause transitory damage to the intestinal mucosa.

Laparoscopy-assisted versus open distal gastrectomy for early gastric cancer: evidence from randomized and nonrandomized clinical trials

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) in patients with early gastric cancer (EGC) to determine whether LADG is an acceptable alternative to open distal gastrectomy (ODG).

BACKGROUND

LADG combined with less than D2 or D2 lymphadenectomy for EGC is still a controversial surgical intervention for its uncertain oncological safety and economic benefit. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis that included randomized control trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs of LADG versus ODG to evaluate whether the safety and efficacy of LADG in patients with EGC are equivalent to those of ODG.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database was performed. Eligible trials published between January 1, 1994, and December 31, 2010, were included in the study. Data synthesis and statistical analysis were carried out by RevMan 5.0 software. The quality of evidence was assessed by GRADEpro 3.2.2.

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies with 3411 participants were included in this study. The mean number of lymph nodes retrieved in LADG was close to that retrieved in ODG (in the less than D2 resection: weighted mean difference [WMD] = -1.79; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], -5.78 to 2.19; P = 0.38; heterogeneity: P < 0.00001, I = 98%; and in the D2 resection: WMD = -1.53; 95% CI, -3.56 to 0.51; P = 0.14; heterogeneity: P = 0.23, I = 26%). The overall postoperative morbidity was significantly less in LADG than in ODG (relative risk = 0.58; 95% CI, 0.46-0.74; P < 0.00001; heterogeneity: P = 0.94, I = 0%). LADG reduced the intraoperative blood loss, postoperative analgesic consumption, and hospital duration, without increasing the total hospitalization costs and cancer recurrence rate. The long-term survival rate of patients undergoing LADG was similar to that of patients undergoing ODG. However, LADG was still a technically dependent and time-consuming procedure. Conversion rate of LADG was 0% to 2.94%. The reported reasons for conversion were bleeding, adhesion, and safety resection margin requirement.

LIMITATIONS

: There were potential biases and significant heterogeneity in some clinical outcome measures in this study. Methodologically high-quality controlled clinical trials were sparse for this new surgical intervention. According to The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach, when assessing the safety and efficacy of LADG by comparing with those of ODG with the defined clinical outcomes in patients with EGC, the quality of the currently available clinical evidence was very low.

CONCLUSIONS

LADG may be a technically feasible alternative for EGC when it is performed in experienced surgical centers in which patients undergoing LADG may benefit from the faster postoperative recovery. However, the currently available evidence cannot exclude the potential clinical benefits or harms, especially in the node-positive cases. Methodologically high-quality comparative studies are needed for further evaluation.

Minimally invasive approaches for gastric cancer-Japanese experiences

Since development of laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy with lymph node dissection in 1991 in Japan, laparoscopic gastrectomy (LAG) is improving and evolving. Recently, advanced LAG techniques including D2 lymph node dissection or anastomosis after total gastrectomy have been developed. Retrospective and prospective multicenter studies have been conducted for early and non-early gastric cancers to establish high-quality evidence. This review summarizes the current trends of minimally invasive approaches for gastric cancer based on current Japanese experiences.

A protective technique for retraction of the liver during laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric adenocarcinoma: using a Penrose drain

BACKGROUND

Retraction of the liver is necessary to ensure an adequate working space in laparoscopic surgery, but the retraction force applied may cause transient liver dysfunction. We have introduced the technique using a Penrose drain to suspend the liver with the performance of laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

111 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma underwent laparoscopic gastrectomy using either a Penrose drain (n = 47) or a Nathanson's retractor (n = 64) for displacement of the liver. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and albumin were compared among the groups at baseline, immediately after operation, and on postoperative days (POD) 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7.

RESULTS

The levels of ALT on POD 2, 3, and 5 were significant higher in the Nathanson's retractor group than in the Penrose drain group. Levels of AST on POD 2 and 3 were also higher in the Nathanson's retractor group than in the Penrose drain group. There was no significant difference in total bilirubin, ALP, and serum albumin levels between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the Penrose drain for retraction of the liver appears to attenuate postoperative liver dysfunction during laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric adenocarcinoma.

Disk suspension method: a novel and safe technique for the retraction of the liver during laparoscopic surgery (with video)

BACKGROUND

A good operative field is important for safe operations, but it is sometimes difficult to obtain a satisfactory operative field in laparoscopic upper abdominal surgery. We developed a novel and safe technique for the retraction of the liver and falciform ligament during laparoscopic surgery, and evaluated its technical feasibility and safety.

METHODS

Forty-three patients with gastric cancer were divided into two groups: disk suspension group (DS group; snake retractor and elastic band fixation with a silicon disk), and fixed retractor group (FR group; snake retractor and nonelastic band fixation without a silicon disk). To evaluate liver damage during retraction, we measured the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels preoperatively and on postoperative day (POD) 1.

RESULTS

In the DS group, all liver lobes were adequately retracted and the hepatoduodenal and gastrohepatic ligaments were fully exposed. This procedure took less than 3 min. On the other hand, 5 of 18 patients of the FR group had insufficient surgical fields for laparoscopic gastrectomy because of soft and/or large livers. Although the preoperative AST and ALT levels were not different between the two groups, the DS group did not display increases in both AST and ALT levels, whereas the FR group showed increases in both on POD 1 (AST: 50.2 ± 8.4 IU/l vs. 124.2 ± 37.7 IU/l, P = 0.07; and ALT: 35.6 ± 6.4 IU/l vs. 106.1 ± 36.2 IU/l, P = 0.07). No complications related to the liver retraction were observed in the DS group. However, liver congestion was evident in six patients and minor liver injury in two patients of the FR group during the esophagojejunostomy.

CONCLUSIONS

The DS method is a simple and safe and provides a better surgical field during laparoscopic surgery of the upper abdomen without damaging the liver.

Comparison of liver function after laparoscopically assisted and open distal gastrectomies for patients with liver disease

Background

Several studies have suggested that carbon dioxide (CO₂) pneumoperitoneum may have an effect on liver function. This study aimed to compare liver function after laparoscopically assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) and open distal gastrectomy (ODG) for patients with liver disease.

Methods

Between January 2006 and December 2007, the study enrolled 50 patients with EGC and liver disease including 18 liver cirrhosis patients, 3 fatty liver patients (n = 3), and 29 healthy hepatitis B or C virus carriers. Albumin, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase levels as well as the volume of drainage in the LADG (n = 18) and ODG (n = 32) groups were determined to assess liver function.

Results

The albumin level on postoperative day 7 was significantly higher in the LADG group (3.5 mg/dl) than in the ODG group (3.1 mg/dl; p = 0.042), and the volume of drainage on postoperative day 2 was significantly lower in the LADG group (154.3 ml) than in the ODG group (403.1 ml; p = 0.013). Diuretics were needed by three patients (16.7%) in the LADG group and six patients (18.7%) in the ODG group for control of ascites (p = 0.587). For the patients with liver cirrhosis, none of the parameters between the two groups were significantly different.

Conclusion

For gastric cancer patients with chronic liver disease, LADG can be considered a safe surgical procedure showing surgical outcomes comparable with those for ODG.

Revisional surgery after gastrectomy for gastric cancer: review of the literature

Recent reports have shown that morbidity and mortality after gastrectomy for gastric cancer vary between authors, countries, and procedures. Common complications related to gastrectomy are postoperative bleeding, anastomotic leakage, pancreatic juice leakage, intra-abdominal abscess, intestinal obstruction, wound dehiscence, and so on. Recently, laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer has developed, especially in Japan and East Asian countries because it is less invasive. Several retrospective studies have shown that the operative complication rate is similar to that of conventional open surgery. Although most postoperative complications can be successfully treated by conservative therapies, surgical management is occasionally needed to prevent a fatal outcome. This review article provides insight into how surgeons can make efforts to reduce postoperative complications through proper preoperative evaluation and improved surgical skills during the initial gastrectomy. In addition, it reviews guidance for timely revisional surgery to allow salvage of patients with serious acute operative complications based on clinical findings made by a group of experienced surgeons.

Liver function alterations after laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy for gastric cancer and its clinical significance

AIM: To evaluate the factors associated with liver function alterations after laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy (LAG) for gastric cancer.

METHODS: We collected the data of gastrectomy patients with gastric cancer and divided them into 2 groups: open gastrectomy (OG) and LAG. We also collected the data of patients with colon cancer to evaluate the effect of liver manipulations during surgery on liver function alterations. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase were measured on the preoperative day and postoperative day 1 (POD1), POD3, POD5, and POD7.

RESULTS: No changes in liver function were observed after the operation in patients with colon cancer (n = 121). However, in gastric cancer patients (n = 215), AST and ALT levels increased until POD5 compared to those in colon cancer patients and these findings were observed both in the LAG and OG without a significant difference except at POD1. The mean hepatic enzyme levels at POD1 in the LAG group were significantly higher than those in the OG group (P = 0.047 for AST and P = 0.039 for ALT). The factors associated with elevated ALT on POD1 in patients with gastric cancer were body mass index (P < 0.001), operation time (P < 0.001), intraoperative hepatic injury (P = 0.048), and ligation of an aberrant left hepatic artery (P = 0.052) but not type of operation (OG vs LAG, P = 0.094).

CONCLUSION: We conclude that the liver function alteration after LAG may have been caused by direct liver manipulation or aberrant hepatic artery ligation rather than the CO₂ pneumoperitoneum.