The "inside approach of the gallbladder" is an alternative to the classic Calot's triangle dissection for a safe operation in severe cholecystitis. Surg Endosc. 2010;24:2626-2632. [PMID: 20336321 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-010-0966-5]

Intraoperative imaging and management of common duct stones during subtotal cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Subtotal cholecystectomy is advocated in patients with severe inflammation and distorted anatomy preventing safe removal of the entire gallbladder. Not well documented in this surgically complex population is the feasibility of intraoperative imaging and management of common bile duct (CBD) stones. We evaluated these operative maneuvers in our subtotal cholecystectomy patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all cholecystectomy cases from 2014 to 2023 at a single Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center using VASQIP (VA Surgical Quality Improvement Program), selecting subtotal cholecystectomy cases for detailed analysis. We reviewed operative reports, imaging and laboratory studies, and clinical notes to understand biliary imaging, stone management, complications, and late outcomes including retained stones (within 6 months), and recurrent stones (beyond 6 months).

RESULTS

419 laparoscopic (n = 406) and open (n = 13) cholecystectomies were performed, including 40 subtotal cholecystectomies (36 laparoscopic, 4 laparoscopic converted to open). Among these 40 patients IOC was attempted in 35 and completed in 26, with successful stone management in 11 (9 common bile duct exploration [CBDE], 2 intraoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography [ERCP]). In follow-up, 3 additional patients had CBD stones managed by ERCP, including 1 with a negative IOC and 2 without IOC. Thus, 14 (35%) of 40 patients had CBD stones. Of note, IOC permitted identification and oversewing or closure of the cystic duct in 32 patients. There were no major bile duct injuries and one cystic duct stump leak (2.5%) that resolved spontaneously.

CONCLUSIONS

Subtotal cholecystectomy patients had a high incidence of bile duct stones, with most detected and managed intraoperatively with CBDE, making a strong argument for routine IOC and single-stage care. When intraoperative imaging is not possible, postoperative imaging should be considered. Routine imaging, biliary clearance, and cystic duct closure during subtotal cholecystectomy is feasible in most patients with low rates of retained stones and bile leaks.

Mirizzi Syndrome and Its Surgical Interventions: A Case Report

A rare side effect of cholelithiasis, called Mirizzi syndrome (MS), arises when gallstones that are impacted in the Hartmann's pouch or the cystic duct extrinsically compress the common bile duct. This condition is typically managed with a cholecystectomy. In this case report, different surgical approaches are described according to each type of Mirizzi. We report a 62-year-old female who presented with abdominal pain. She underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP) and was diagnosed with MS. We performed a subtotal cholecystectomy with a choledochoduodenostomy.

Mirizzi Syndrome-The Past, Present, and Future

Mirizzi syndrome is a complication of gallstone disease caused by an impacted gallstone in the infundibulum of the gallbladder or within the cystic duct, causing chronic inflammation and extrinsic compression of the common hepatic duct or common bile duct. Eventually, mucosal ulceration occurs and progresses to cholecystobiliary fistulation. Numerous systems exist to classify Mirizzi syndrome, with the Csendes classification widely adopted. It describes five types of Mirizzi syndrome according to the presence of a cholecystobiliary fistula and its corresponding severity, and whether a cholecystoenteric fistula is present. The clinical presentation of Mirizzi syndrome is non-specific, and patients typically have a longstanding history of gallstones. It commonly presents with obstructive jaundice, and can mimic gallbladder, biliary, or pancreatic malignancy. Achieving a preoperative diagnosis guides surgical planning and improves treatment outcomes. However, a significant proportion of cases of Mirizzi syndrome are diagnosed intraoperatively, and the presence of dense adhesions and distorted anatomy at Calot's triangle increases the risk of bile duct injury. Cholecystectomy remains the mainstay of treatment for Mirizzi syndrome, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy is increasingly becoming a viable option, especially for less severe stages of cholecystobiliary fistula. Subtotal cholecystectomy is feasible if total cholecystectomy cannot be performed safely. Additional procedures may be required, such as common bile duct exploration, choledochoplasty, and bilioenteric anastomosis. Conclusions: There is currently no consensus for the management of Mirizzi syndrome, as the management options depend on the extent of surgical pathology and availability of surgical expertise. Multidisciplinary collaboration is important to achieve diagnostic accuracy and guide treatment planning to ensure good clinical outcomes.

Review of the Literature on Partial Resections of the Gallbladder, 1898-2022: The Outline of the Conception of Subtotal Cholecystectomy and a Suggestion to Use the Terms 'Subtotal Open-Tract Cholecystectomy' and 'Subtotal Closed-Tract Cholecystectomy'

Current descriptions of the history of subtotal cholecystectomy require more details and accuracy. This study presented a narrative review of the articles on partial resections of the gallbladder published between 1898 and 2022. The Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles items guided the style and content of this paper. The systematic literature search yielded 165 publications. Of them, 27 were published between 1898 and 1984. The evolution of the partial resections of the gallbladder began in the last decade of the 19th century when Kehr and Mayo performed them. The technique of partial resection of the gallbladder leaving the hepatic wall in situ was well known in the 3rd and 4th decades of the 20th century. In 1931, Estes emphasised the term 'partial cholecystectomy'. In 1947, Morse and Barb introduced the term 'subtotal cholecystectomy'. Madding and Farrow popularised it in 1955-1959. Bornman and Terblanche revitalised it in 1985. This term became dominant in 2014. From a subtotal cholecystectomy technical execution perspective, it is either a single-stage (when it includes only the resectional component) or two-stage (when it also entails closure of the remnant of the gallbladder or cystic duct) operation. Recent papers on classifications of partial resections of the gallbladder indicate the extent of gallbladder resection. Subtotal cholecystectomy is an umbrella term for incomplete cholecystectomies. 'Subtotal open-tract cholecystectomy' and 'subtotal closed-tract cholecystectomy' are terms that characterise the type of completion of subtotal cholecystectomy.

The second 'gallbladder operation'

Background:

Subtotal cholecystectomy has been reported in 8% and 3.3% of patients undergoing open and laparoscopic cholecystectomy, respectively. According to a recent nationwide survey, the utilisation of subtotal cholecystectomy in the treatment of acute cholecystitis is on the rise. In 1.8% of subtotal cholecystectomies, a reoperation is required. Reoperations for residual gallbladder (GB), gallstones, and related complications accounted for half of the reoperations described in the literature after subtotal cholecystectomy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical profile, risk of complications, and feasibility of laparoscopic approaches and surgical procedures in patients with recurrent symptoms from a residual GB that necessitated a completion cholecystectomy.

Methods:

Patients who underwent surgery for residual GB with stones and/or complications between January 2007 and January 2020 were included in the study group. A prospectively maintained database was used to review patient information retrospectively. The demographic profile, operation details of the index surgery, current presentation, investigations performed, surgery details, morbidity and mortality were all included in the clinical information.

Results:

There were 13 patients who underwent completion cholecystectomy. The median age was 55 years (22–63 years). Prior operative notes mentioned subtotal cholecystectomy in only seven patients. The average time between the index surgery and the onset of symptoms was 30 months (2–175 months). A final diagnosis of residual GB with or without calculi was made by ultrasound (USG) in 11 patients and by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) in two others. Choledocholithiasis (n = 4, 30.7%), acute cholecystitis (n = 2, one with empyema and GB perforation) and Mirizzi syndrome (n = 1) were seen as complications of residual gallstones in seven patients. All 13 patients underwent successful laparoscopic procedures. A fifth port was used in all. A critical view of safety was achieved in 12 patients. Two patients required laparoscopic common bile duct (CBD) exploration for CBD stones. Intraoperative cholangiograms were done in eight patients (61.5%). There were no conversions, injuries to the bile duct or deaths. Morbidity was seen in one. The patient required therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiography for cholangitis and CBD clearance on the fifth post-operative day. The median hospital stay was 4 days (3–7 days). At a median follow-up of 99 months, symptom resolution was seen in all 13 patients.

Conclusion:

Gallstones in the residual GB are associated with more complications than conventional gallstones. The diagnosis requires a high level of suspicion. MRCP is more accurate in establishing the diagnosis and identifying the associated complications, even if the diagnosis is made on USG in most patients. A pre-operative roadmap is provided by the MRCP. For patients with residual GB, laparoscopic completion cholecystectomy is a feasible and safe option.

Subtotal cholecystectomy for difficult acute cholecystitis: how to finalize safely by laparoscopy-a systematic review

Background

Aim of this study was to clarify the best laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSTC) technique for finalizing a difficult cholecystectomy.

Patients and methods

A review was performed (1987–2021) searching "difficulty cholecystectomy" AND/OR "subtotal cholecystectomy". The LSTC techniques considered were as follows: type A, leaving posterior wall attached to the liver and the remainder of the gallbladder stump open; type B, like type A but with the stump closed; type C, resection of both the anterior and posterior gallbladder walls and the stump closed; type D, like type C but with the stump open. Morbidity (including mortality) was analysed with Dindo–Clavien classification.

Results

Nineteen articles were included. Of the 13,340 patients screened, 678 (8.2%) had cholecystectomy finalized by LSTC: 346 patients (51.0%) had type A LSTC, 134 patients (19.8%) had type B LSTC, 198 patients (29.2%) had type C LSTC, and 198 patients (0%) had type D LSTC. Bile leakage was found in 83 patients (12.2%), and recorded in 58 patients (69.9%) treated by type A. Twenty-three patients (3.4%) developed a subhepatic collection, 19 of whom (82.6%) were treated by type A. Other complications were reported in 72 patients (10.6%). The Dindo–Clavien classification was four for grade I, 27 for grade II, 126 for grade IIIa, 18 for grade IIIb, zero for grade IV and three for grade V.

Conclusion

In the case of LSTC, closure of the gallbladder stump represents the best method to avoid complications. Careful exploration of the gallbladder stump is mandatory, washing the abdominal cavity and leaving drainage.

A Novel Surgical Approach for Type 2 Mirizzi Syndrome: Based on a Decade of Clinical Experience at a Teaching Hospital

Background. The Mirizzi syndrome (MS) is a rare complication of cholecystolithiasis that is often accompanied by severe inflammation and fibrosis around Calot's triangle. It is difficult to treat Type 2 MS surgically, and the treatment for this condition has not yet been standardized. The data on operative management are limited. The study aimed to review our institutional clinical experience regarding surgery and provide recommendations for treating Type 2 MS. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on 6 patients with MS who were surgically treated at our institution between January 2010 and December 2019. The classification of MS by McSherry CK, Ferstenberg H, Virshup M. The Mirizzi syndrome: Suggested classification and surgical therapy. Surg Gastroenterol. 1982;1:219-225 was used. Mucosal approach was used to treat Type 2 MS. The parameters for comparison included patient demographics, operative procedures, operation time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, complications, and follow-up. Results: There were 23 patients with MS among 10 386 cholecystectomies in our area. Six patients with Type 2 MS had successful surgery, and the mucosal approach was used. The average operative time was 253.3 ± 32.5 minutes. The average blood loss was 70.0 ± 14.1 mL. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 9.5 ± 3.9 days. There was no postoperative mortality. The most frequent postoperative complications were bile leakage (16.7%), and postoperative intra-abdominal collection (16.7%). The mean postoperative follow-up was 10 months, and all patients are asymptomatic. The mucosal approach may decrease the risk of bile duct injury, biliary tract infection, and blood loss more than other surgical approaches. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the mucosal approach is an effective surgical procedure for Type 2 MS.

Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy: comparison of reconstituting and fenestrating techniques

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSC) is a safe bailout procedure in situations when dissection of "critical view of safety" is not possible. After the proposed classification of subtotal cholecystectomy into "fenestrating" and "reconstituting" techniques in 2016, a comparative review of the outcomes of both methods is timely.

METHODS

A literature search of the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science database was conducted up to January 31, 2020 for studies that reported LSC. Studies reporting LSC only in patients with Mirizzi syndrome or xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis were excluded. Our analysis includes 39 studies with 1784 cases of LSC. We report a comparison of outcomes between reconstituting and fenestrating LSC on 1505 cases [935 reconstituting (62.1%) and 570 fenestrating (37.9%)].

RESULTS

Following LSC, the rate of open conversion is 7.7%, hemorrhage is 0.4%, bile duct injury is 0.3%, bile leak is 15.4%, retained stone is 4.6%, subhepatic or subphrenic collection is 2.9%, superficial surgical site infection is 2.0% and 30-day mortality is 0.2%. 8.8% of patients required postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), 1.1% required percutaneous intervention, and 2.2% required reoperation. Compared to reconstituting LSC, fenestrating LSC has a higher incidence of open conversion (n = 58, 10.2% vs. n = 43, 4.6%, p < 0.001), retained stones (n = 38, 6.7% vs. n = 38, 4.1%, p = 0.0253), subhepatic or subphrenic collections (n = 33, 5.8% vs. n = 13, 1.4%, p < 0.001), superficial surgical site infections (n = 18, 3.2% vs. n = 14, 1.5%, p = 0.0303), postoperative ERCP (n = 82, 14.4% vs. n = 62, 6.6%, p < 0.001), and need for reoperation (n = 20, 3.5% vs. n = 12, 1.3%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although reconstituting LSC has better outcomes, both techniques are complementary. Intraoperative findings and surgical expertise impact the choice.

Gallbladder Cryoablation: A Novel Option for High-Risk Patients with Gallbladder Disease

Management of high-risk surgical patients with cholecystitis poses a significant clinical problem. These patients are often left with the options of permanent cholecystostomy tube drainage or high-risk surgery. Numerous attempts have been made over the past 4 decades to fulfill the need for a minimally invasive, definitive treatment option for such gallbladder disease. These attempts have largely focused on endoluminal ablation with a variety of sclerosants and have been unable to reliably achieve permanent gallbladder devitalization. The advent of modern percutaneous devices and techniques have provided further opportunity to develop minimally invasive treatment options for high-risk patients. Cryoablation, a thermal ablation modality that induces cell death through tissue freezing, has recently emerged as a promising potential option to treat gallbladder disease. Early studies have demonstrated good technical and clinical success, and a prospective trial is ongoing. This manuscript explains the clinical need for gallbladder cryoablation, briefly revisits historical minimally invasive treatments, describes cryoablation technology and why it is well suited for the gallbladder, and reviews the preclinical and clinical studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of gallbladder cryoablation.

Open conversion in laparoscopic cholecystectomy and bile duct exploration: subspecialisation safely reduces the conversion rates

Background

Open conversion rates during laparoscopic cholecystectomy vary depending on many factors. Surgeon experience and operative difficulty influence the decision to convert on the grounds of patient safety but occasionally due to technical factors. We aim to evaluate the difficulties leading to conversion, the strategies used to minimise this event and how subspecialisation influenced conversion rates over time.

Methods

Prospectively collected data from 5738 laparoscopic cholecystectomies performed by a single surgeon over 28 years was analysed. Routine intraoperative cholangiography and common bile duct exploration when indicated are utilised. Patients undergoing conversion, fundus first dissection or subtotal cholecystectomy were identified and the causes and outcomes compared to those in the literature.

Results

28 patients underwent conversion to open cholecystectomy (0.49%). Morbidity was relatively high (33%). 16 of the 28 patients (57%) had undergone bile duct exploration. The most common causes of conversion in our series were dense adhesions (9/28, 32%) and impacted bile duct stones (7/28, 25%). 173 patients underwent fundus first cholecystectomy (FFC) (3%) and 6 subtotal cholecystectomy (0.1%). Morbidity was 17.3% for the FFC and no complications were encountered in the subtotal cholecystectomy patients. These salvage techniques have reduced our conversion rate from a potential 3.5% to 0.49%.

Conclusion

Although open conversion should not be seen as a failure, it carries a high morbidity and should only be performed when other strategies have failed. Subspecialisation and a high emergency case volume together with FFC and subtotal cholecystectomy as salvage strategies can reduce conversion and its morbidity in difficult cholecystectomies.

Is subtotal cholecystectomy safe and feasible? Short- and long-term results

BACKGROUND

Cholecystectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures. However, it may result in some unpleasant conditions such as bile duct injury (BDI), bile leak, and vessel injury. Subtotal cholecystectomy (SC), which has been introduced as an alternative method for reducing the complication rates, has been reported to have lower risk of BDI when compared to total cholecystectomy. This study aimed to evaluate the indications for SC, its early and late complications and their management, and the risk factors affecting the bile leak.

METHODS

Fifty-seven patients who underwent SC were included in the study, and their medical records were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Thirty-three patients were male (57.9%) and the mean age was 64.84 ± 11.35 (range: 29-86). All patients had at least one episode of cholecystitis. Forty-seven (82.5%) patients underwent surgery under emergency conditions. Postoperative bile leak/fistula, surgical site infection, and fluid collection were developed in 12 (21.1%), eight (14%), and six (10.5%) patients, respectively. Leaving the remnant tissue pouch open, presence of comorbidity and emergency operative condition were found to increase the risk of leak development (P < .001). During the average follow-up of 49 months (range: 13-98), symptomatic choledocholithiasis, symptomatic gallstones in the remnant tissue, and incisional hernia were detected within the first year of surgery in three (5.3%), four (7%), and seven (12.3%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although SC is not an equivalent to total cholecystectomy, its vital benefit of lowering the risk of BDI should be considered in difficult cases.

Safe Cholecystectomy Multi-society Practice Guideline and State of the Art Consensus Conference on Prevention of Bile Duct Injury During Cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

BDI is the most common serious complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. To address this problem, a multi-society consensus conference was held to develop evidenced-based recommendations for safe cholecystectomy and prevention of BDI.

METHODS

Literature reviews were conducted for 18 key questions across 6 broad topics around cholecystectomy directed by a steering group and subject experts from 5 surgical societies (Society of Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract, and European Association for Endoscopic Surgery). Evidence-based recommendations were formulated using the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation methodology. When evidence-based recommendations could not be made, expert opinion was documented. A number of recommendations for future research were also documented. Recommendations were presented at a consensus meeting in October 2018 and were voted on by an international panel of 25 experts with greater than 80% agreement considered consensus.

RESULTS

Consensus was reached on 17 of 18 questions by the guideline development group and expert panel with high concordance from audience participation. Most recommendations were conditional due to low certainty of evidence. Strong recommendations were made for (1) use of intraoperative biliary imaging for uncertainty of anatomy or suspicion of biliary injury; and (2) referral of patients with confirmed or suspected BDI to an experienced surgeon/multispecialty hepatobiliary team.

CONCLUSIONS

These consensus recommendations should provide guidance to surgeons, training programs, hospitals, and professional societies for strategies that have the potential to reduce BDIs and positively impact patient outcomes. Development of clinical and educational research initiatives based on these recommendations may drive further improvement in the quality of surgical care for patients undergoing cholecystectomy.

Safety and feasibility of laparoscopic approaches for the management of Mirizzi syndrome: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic approaches for the management of Mirizzi syndrome (MS) are controversial and challenging procedures for high conversion rate. This review aims at evaluating their safety and feasibility.

METHODS

We reviewed studies related to the laparoscopic approaches for the management of MS with detailed data of articles from January 2009 to December 2019 found in PubMed.

RESULTS

From 63 articles, we reviewed 17 articles detailing laparoscopic approaches for MS. There were 857 patients with MS; 432 of which were identified from 73,842 patients underwent cholecystectomy. Laparoscopic approaches were attempted in 440 patients and were successful in 290. The conversion rate was 34.09%. Various methods including laparoscopic cholecystectomy, laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy, laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) and (LTCBDE) were performed. The preoperative diagnosis of MS was made in 338 of 500 patients (67.60%). The mean operating time ranged from 49.7 ± 27.5 min to 270.5 ± 65.5 min, and the mean intraoperative bleeding varied from 21.1 ± 15.9 ml to 162.81 ± 40.83 ml. The mean hospital stay varied from 4.5 ± 3.7 to 7.21 ± 1.61 days. Postoperative complications occurred in 27 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Various laparoscopic approaches are safe and feasible for the treatment of MS in the hands of experienced laparoscopic surgeons, especially for type I and II of Csendes classification. Definitive preoperative diagnosis and earlier management are essential.

Less is more in the difficult gallbladder: recent evolution of subtotal cholecystectomy in a single HPB unit

INTRODUCTION

Subtotal cholecystectomy (SC) is a technique to manage the difficult gallbladder and avoid hazardous dissection and biliary injury. Until recently it was used infrequently. However, because of reduced exposure to open total cholecystectomy in resident training, we recently adopted subtotal cholecystectomy as the bail-out procedure of choice for resident teaching. This study reports our experience and outcomes with subtotal cholecystectomy in the years immediately preceding adoption and since adoption.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted of patients undergoing SC from July 2010 to June 2019. Outcomes, including bile leak, reoperation and need for additional procedures, were analyzed. Complications were graded by the Modified Accordion Grading Scale (MAGS).

RESULTS

1571 cholecystectomies were performed of which 71 were SC. Subtotal cholecystectomy patients had several indicators of difficulty including prior attempted cholecystectomy and previous cholecystostomy tube insertion. The most common indication for SC was marked inflammation in the hepatocystic triangle (51%). As our experience increased, fewer patients required open conversion to accomplish SC and SC was completed laparoscopically, usually subtotal fenestrating cholecystectomy (SFC). Most patients (85%) had a drain placed and 28% were discharged with a drain. The highest MAGS complication observed was grade 3 (11 patients, 15%). Six patients had a bile leak from the cystic duct resolved by ERCP. At mean follow-up of about 1 year no patient returned with recurrent symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Subtotal fenestrating cholecystectomy is a useful technique to avoid biliary injury in the difficult gallbladder and can be performed with very satisfactory rates of bile fistula, ERCP, and reoperation.

Safe cholecystectomy multi-society practice guideline and state-of-the-art consensus conference on prevention of bile duct injury during cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Bile duct injury (BDI) is the most common serious complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. To address this problem, a multi-society consensus conference was held to develop evidenced-based recommendations for safe cholecystectomy and prevention of BDI.

METHODS

Literature reviews were conducted for 18 key questions across six broad topics around cholecystectomy directed by a steering group and subject experts from five surgical societies (SAGES, AHPBA IHPBA, SSAT, and EAES). Evidence-based recommendations were formulated using the GRADE methodology. When evidence-based recommendations could not be made, expert opinion was documented. A number of recommendations for future research were also documented. Recommendations were presented at a consensus meeting in October 2018 and were voted on by an international panel of 25 experts with greater than 80% agreement considered consensus.

RESULTS

Consensus was reached on 17 of 18 questions by the Guideline Development Group (GDG) and expert panel with high concordance from audience participation. Most recommendations were conditional due to low certainty of evidence. Strong recommendations were made for (1) use of intraoperative biliary imaging for uncertainty of anatomy or suspicion of biliary injury; and (2) referral of patients with confirmed or suspected BDI to an experienced surgeon/multispecialty hepatobiliary team.

CONCLUSION

These consensus recommendations should provide guidance to surgeons, training programs, hospitals, and professional societies for strategies that have the potential to reduce BDIs and positively impact patient outcomes. Development of clinical and educational research initiatives based on these recommendations may drive further improvement in the quality of surgical care for patients undergoing cholecystectomy.

Safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review of bile duct injury prevention

BACKGROUND

Since the introduction of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), a substantial increase in bile duct injury (BDI) incidence was noted. Multiple methods to prevent this complication have been developed and investigated. The most suitable method however is subject to debate. In this systematic review, the different modalities to aid in the safe performance of LC and prevent BDI are delineated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic search for articles describing methods for the prevention of BDI in LC was conducted using EMBASE, Medline, Web of science, Cochrane CENTRAL and Google scholar databases from inception to 11 June 2018.

RESULTS

90 studies were included in this systematic review. Overall, BDI preventive techniques can be categorized as dedicated surgical approaches (Critical View of Safety (CVS), fundus first, partial laparoscopic cholecystectomy), supporting imaging techniques (intraoperative radiologic cholangiography, intraoperative ultrasonography, fluorescence imaging) and others. Dedicated surgical approaches demonstrate promising results, yet limited research is provided. Intraoperative radiologic cholangiography and ultrasonography demonstrate beneficial effects in BDI prevention, however the available evidence is low. Fluorescence imaging is in its infancy, yet this technique is demonstrated to be feasible and larger trials are in preparation.

CONCLUSION

Given the low sample sizes and suboptimal study designs of the studies available, it is not possible to recommend a preferred method to prevent BDI. Surgeons should primarily focus on proper dissection techniques, of which CVS is most suitable. Additionally, recognition of hazardous circumstances and knowledge of alternative techniques is critical to complete surgery with minimal risk of injury to the patient.

Closure of the cystic duct orifice in laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy for severe cholecystitis

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSC) has been recognized as an alternative to conversion to laparotomy for severe cholecystitis. However, it may be associated with an increased risk of recurrent stones in the gallbladder remnant. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of the complete removal of the gallbladder cavity in LSC for severe cholecystitis using the cystic duct orifice suturing (CDOS) technique.

METHODS

In a consecutive series of 412 laparoscopic cholecystectomies that were performed from January 2015 to June 2017, 12 patients who underwent LSC with CDOS were enrolled in this retrospective study. In this procedure, Hartmann's pouch was carefully identified, and the infundibulum-cystic duct junction was transected while the posterior wall adherent to Calot's triangle was left behind. The clinical records, including the operative records and outcomes, were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median operating time and blood loss were 158 min and 20 mL, respectively. In all cases, LSC with CDOS was completed without conversion to open surgery. No injuries to the bile duct or vessels were experienced. The median postoperative hospital stay was 6 days. Postoperative complications occurred in two patients (bile leakage, n = 1: common bile duct stones, n = 1) and were successfully treated by endoscopic management. A gallbladder remnant was not delineated by postoperative imaging in any of the cases.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that LSC with CDOS is a promising approach that can avoid dissection of Calot's triangle and achieve the complete removal of the gallbladder cavity in patients with severe cholecystitis.

Mirizzi syndrome: necessity for safe approach in dealing with diagnostic and treatment challenges

Backgrounds/Aims

The challenging dilemma of Mirizzi syndrome for operating surgeons arises from the difficulty to diagnose it preoperatively, and approximately 50% of cases are diagnosed intraoperatively. In this study, we analysed the effectiveness of diagnostic modalities and treatment options in our series of Mirizzi syndrome.

Methods

Patients had a preoperative or intraoperative diagnosis of Mirizzi syndrome, and were classified into three groups: Group 1: Incidental finding of Mirizzi syndrome intraoperatively (n=34). Group 2: Patients presented with jaundice, diagnosed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (n=17). Group 3: Patients diagnosed initially by ultrasound (n=13). Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was conducted in all 49 patients with Cendes type I disease. Partial cholecystectomy, common bile duct exploration, repair of fistula and t-tube placement was conducted on eight patients with Cendes type II and five patients with Cendes type III. Partial cholecystectomy with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy was conducted in two patients with Cendes type IV disease.

Results

Sixty-four patients were diagnosed with Mirizzi syndrome. Morbidity rate was 3.1%. Mortality rate was 0%. Group 3 (patients diagnosed initially by ultrasound) had the best treatment outcome, the least morbidity, and the shortest hospital stay.

Conclusions

Suspected cases of Mirizzi syndrome should not be underestimated. Difficulty in establishing preoperative diagnosis is the major dilemma. As it is mostly encountered intraoperatively, the approach should be careful and logical to identify the correct type of Mirizzi by a thorough diagnostic laparoscopy and thus, provide optimum treatment for the subtype to achieve the best outcome.

Damage-control laparoscopic partial cholecystectomy with an endoscopic linear stapler

OBJECTIVE

Several damage-control procedures have been described in the literature in case of severe Calot's triangle inflammation and fibrosis. In this report, we describe patients who underwent laparoscopic partial cholecystectomy using an endoscopic linear stapler.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five patients with acute cholecystitis underwent laparoscopic partial cholecystectomy in our clinic between January - December 2011. All patients had severe fibrosis and inflammation of Calot's triangle. The anterior and posterior walls of the gallbladder were totally resected if possible. The gallbladder was transected at its neck or Hartmann's pouch, leaving a remnant gallbladder pouch behind.

RESULTS

Five patients had laparoscopic partial cholecystectomy with an endoscopic linear stapler. The main symptom of all patients on admission to the emergency room was abdominal pain. The mean time for the surgical procedure was 140 minutes (range, 120-180 minutes). Inflammation and fibrosis of Calot's triangle was detected in all patients during surgery and a phlegmonous gallbladder was detected in one patient. Surgical drains were used in all patients and no biliary leakage was detected. Remnant common bile duct calculi were detected in one patient and this patient underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography one month after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

When a reliable view of Calot's triangle cannot be obtained due to severe inflammation and fibrosis during laparoscopy, laparoscopic partial cholecystectomy seems to be a safe and feasible alternative to open surgery with an acceptable morbidity rate.

Subtotal cholecystectomy for the hostile gallbladder: failure to control the cystic duct results in significant morbidity

BACKGROUND

Outcomes following the inability to control the cystic duct due to a hostile triangle of Calot during cholecystectomy remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to analyze the safety and efficacy of subtotal cholecystectomy, with attention to the necessity for secondary interventions.

METHODS

Sixteen thousand five hundred ninety six cholecystectomies from January 2002 to August 2014 were reviewed, identifying patients managed with subtotal cholecystectomy, defined as the inability to isolate/transect the cystic duct. After propensity matching, we investigated surgical indications, perioperative outcomes, and the necessity for secondary ERCP, percutaneous drainage, and completion cholecystectomy.

RESULTS

65 (0.39%) patients underwent subtotal cholecystectomy; 54 (83.1%) began laparoscopically, of which 30 (55.6%) required conversion to laparotomy. Subtotal cholecystectomy, performed more frequently for acute cholecystitis (70.8% vs 34.6%), was associated with extended hospitalizations (4 d vs 2 d) and frequent surgical site infections (20% vs 4.6%). 25 (38.5%) subtotal cholecystectomy patients required ≥1 secondary intervention, and compared to standard cholecystectomy, underwent higher rates postoperative ERCP (30.8% vs 5.4%), percutaneous drainage (9.2% vs 1.5%), and completion cholecystectomy (6.2% vs 0%) [all P < 0.05].

DISCUSSION

Subtotal cholecystectomy fails to control the cystic duct, resulting in significant morbidity. Most do not require completion cholecystectomy; however, patients demand close observation and, frequently, secondary interventions.

Subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy influences the rate of conversion in patients with difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Case series

Objectives

This study aimed to show that subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SLC) is a safe procedure that reduces the rate of conversion in patients with difficult laporoscopic cholecystectomies in resource-meagre settings.

Patients and methods

Following informed consent, patients with gallstones reporting to Atbara Medical Centre, Atbara, Northern Sudan from February 2012 to July 2013 were managed laparoscopically except those with choledocholithiasis. SLC was done for patients with difficult cholecystectomy and obscured Callot's triangle. Clinical presentation, duration of symptoms, ultrasound findings, frequency of conversion to open operation, frequency of difficult cholecystectomy, operation duration and numbers/types of complications were recorded. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS.

Results

One hundred and nine patients with a median age of 48 years, F:M ratio of 9 and mean duration of symptoms of 14.8 ± 12.9 months were enrolled. A quarter (29/109, 26.6%) had acute choleycystitis, 13% had difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy. SLC was done for 16.2%. Retained stones were statistically significant in patients who underwent subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy (p = 0.02) with a conversion rate of 5.5%.

Conclusion

SLC is feasible, safe and can reduce the rate of conversion for patients with difficult laporoscopic cholecystectomy. Sub-total laparoscopic cholecystectomy is not a substitute to conversion and in difficult conditions it is not a failure for the surgeon but a wisdom.

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Subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SLC) is the safest procedure of choice for difficult cases of the elderly and prolonged symptoms.

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Postoperative retained stones were statistically significant in subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

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The conversion rate of 5.5% was recorded.

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Subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy is feasible and safe for patients with obscure Calot's especially those with acute cholecystitis in meager resource settings.

Laparoscopic transfistulous bile duct exploration for Mirizzi syndrome type II: a simplified standardized technique

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic treatment is a viable option for Mirizzi syndrome (MS) type I, but it is not recommended for MS type II (McSherry classification). We introduce laparoscopic transfistulous bile duct exploration (LTBDE) as a simplified standardized technique for MS type II.

METHODS

Eleven consecutive LTBDEs performed by a surgeon for MS type II were analyzed retrospectively, including three successful single-incision LTBDEs (SILTBDEs). Transfistulous stone removal followed by primary closure of gallbladder remnant and partial cholecystectomy was performed. An additional choledochotomy was required in one patient.

RESULTS

Preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and operative findings confirmed the diagnosis of MS in five and five patients, respectively. Preoperative ultrasound implied the remaining diagnosis. The operative time was 270.5 ± 65.5 min. The stone clearance rate was 100 %. The postoperative length of hospital stay was 5.1 ± 2.2 days. There was no open conversion. Overall complications comprised two postoperative transient hyperamylasemia (18.2 %) and one superficial wound infection (9.1 %). Compared with the other group of 92 patients who underwent laparoscopic bile duct exploration, the MS type II group had a significantly younger age, a higher jaundice rate, a lower single-incision laparoscopic approach rate, a lower choledochotomy rate, longer operative time, a lower postoperative pethidine dose, and a longer total length of hospital stay. The average follow-up period was 12.1 months.

CONCLUSIONS

LTBDE is safe and efficacious for MS type II including Csendes type IV. A high suspicion of MS is critical. SILTBDE is feasible in selected cases. Long-term follow-up is mandatory.

The difficult gall bladder: Outcomes following laparoscopic cholecystectomy and the need for open conversion

INTRODUCTION

Surgery for the difficult gallbladder (DGB) is associated with increased risk compared to more routine laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LC). Laparoscopic "damage control" methods including cholecystostomy, fundus-down approach and subtotal cholecystectomy (SC) have been proposed to avoid conversion to open. We hypothesized that a Total LC (TLC) for DBG can be completed safely with an acceptably low conversion rate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All patients that underwent LC from January 2005-June 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Cases met criteria for DGB if they were necrotic/gangrenous, involved Mirizzi syndrome, had extensive adhesions, were converted to open, lasted more than 120 min, had prior tube cholecystostomy or known GB perforation.

RESULTS

A total of 2212 patients underwent LC during the study time period, of which 351 (15.8%) met criteria for DGB. Of these cases, 213 (60.7%) were admitted from the emergency department and 67 (19.1%) underwent urgent/emergent cholecystectomy (within 24 h). Additionally 18 (5.1%) had pre-operative tube cholecystostomies. Seventy patients (19.9%) were converted to open. Indications for conversion included severe inflammation/adhesion (n = 31, 46.3%), difficult anatomy (n = 14, 20.9%) and bleeding (n = 6, 9.0%). Predictors for conversion included urgent/emergent intervention (OR, 0.80; 95% CI 0.351-0.881, p = 0.032), previous abdominal surgery (OR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.181-4.035, p = 0.013) and necrotic/gangrenous cholecystitis (OR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.356-4.044, p = 0.033). Comparing the TLC and the conversion groups, mean operative time and length of hospital stay were significantly different; 147 ± 47 min vs 185 ± 71 min; p < 0.005 and 3 ± 2 days vs 5 ± 3 days; p = 0.011, respectively. There was no significant difference in postoperative hemorrhage, subhepatic collection, cystic duct leak, wound infection, reoperation and 30 day mortality. There was no bile duct injury in either group.

CONCLUSION

Total laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be safely performed in difficult gallbladder situations with a lower conversion rate than previously reported. Possible predictors of conversion include urgency, necrotic gallbladder and history of prior abdominal surgeries. For patients converted to open, similar morbidity and mortality can be expected.

Management of Mirizzi Syndrome in Emergency

INTRODUCTION

Mirizzi syndrome (MS) is a rare complication of cholelithiasis. Despite the success of laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a minimally invasive approach to gallstone disease, MS remains a challenge, also for open and robotic approaches, due to the subverted anatomy of the hepatocystic triangle. Moreover, when emergency surgery is needed, the optimal preoperative diagnostic assessment could not be always achievable. We aim to analyze our experience of MS treated in emergency and to assess the feasibility of a diagnostic and therapeutic decisional algorithm.

METHODS

From March 2006 to February 2016, all patients with a preoperative diagnosis, or an intraoperative evidence of MS, were retrospectively analyzed at our Academic Hospital, including patients operated on in emergency or in deferred urgency. Eighteen patients were included in the study using exclusion criteria and were treated in elective surgery.

RESULTS

The patients were distributed according to modified Csendes' classification: type I in 15 cases, type II in 2, type III in 0, type IV in 1, and type V in 0. In the type I group, diagnosis was intraoperatively performed. Laparoscopic approach was performed with cholecystectomy or subtotal cholecystectomy, when the hepatocystic triangle dissection was hazardous. Patients with preoperative diagnosis of acute abdomen and MS type IV were directly managed by open approach.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosis of MS and the therapeutic management of MS are still a challenge, mostly in an emergency setting. Waiting for standardized guidelines, we propose a decisional algorithm in emergency, especially in nonspecialized centeres of hepatobiliary surgery.

Intra-cholecystic approach for laparoscopic management of Mirizzi's syndrome: A case series

INTRODUCTION:

Laparoscopic management of patients with Mirizzi's syndrome (MS) is not routinely recommended due to the high risk of iatrogenic complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Intra-cholecystic (IC) or inside-gall bladder (GB) approach was used for laparoscopic management of 16 patients with MS at a tertiary care referral centre in North India from May 2010 to August 2014; a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed.

RESULTS:

Mean age was 40.1 ± 14.7 years, the male-to-female ratio was 1:3, and 9 (56.25%) patients had type 1 MS (MS1) and 7 (43.75%) had type 2 MS (MS2) (McSherry's classification). The laparoscopic intra-cholecystic approach (LICA) was successful in 11 (68.75%) patients, whereas 5 patients (31.25%) required conversion to open method. Median blood loss was 100 mL (range: 50-400 mL), and median duration of surgery was 3.25 h (range: 2-7.5 h). No major complications were encountered except 1 patient (6.5%) who required re-operation for retained bile duct stones. The final histopathology report was benign in all the patients. No remote complications were noted during a mean follow-up of 20.18 months.

CONCLUSION:

LICA is a feasible and safe approach for selected patients with Mirizzi's syndrome; however, a low threshold for conversion is necessary to avoid iatrogenic complications.

Laparoscopic Treatment of Type III Mirizzi Syndrome by T-Tube Drainage

Mirizzi syndrome (MS) is an impacted stone in the cystic duct or Hartmann's pouch that mechanically obstructs the common bile duct. We would like to report laparoscopic treatment of type III MS. A 75-year-old man was admitted with the complaint of abdominal pain and jaundice. The patient was accepted as MS type III according to radiological imaging and intraoperative view. Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy, extraction of impacted stone by opening anterior surface of dilated cystic duct and choledochus, and repair of this opening by using the remaining part of gallbladder over the T-tube drainage were performed in a patient with type III MS. Application of reinforcement suture over stump was done in light of the checking with oliclinomel N4 injection trough the T-tube. At the 18-month follow-up, he was symptom-free with normal liver function tests.

Gallbladder Cryoablation: Proof of Concept in a Swine Model for a Percutaneous Alternative to Cholecystectomy

PURPOSE

To investigate the feasibility of percutaneous gallbladder cryoablation (GBC) under CT guidance in a swine model with histopathologic correlation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee approval was obtained for this study protocol. Five pigs underwent GBC. Under CT guidance, 3-4 cryoprobes were positioned percutaneously at the gallbladder margins. Thermocouple probes were placed percutaneously at the gallbladder fundus, neck, free wall, and gallbladder fossa. Two freeze-thaw cycles ranging from 10 to 26 min were performed. The subjects were sacrificed 5 h after cryoablation. The gallbladder and bile ducts were resected, stained, and examined microscopically.

RESULTS

GBC was completed in all subjects. A 10-mm ablation margin was achieved beyond all gallbladder walls. Thermocouple probes reached at least -20 °C. Intra-procedural body temperature decreased to a minimum of 35 °C but recovered after the procedure. Intra- and post-procedural vital signs otherwise remained within physiologic parameters. Non-target ablation occurred in the stomach and colon of the first two subjects. Histology demonstrated complete denudation of the gallbladder epithelium, hemorrhage, and edema within the muscularis layer, and preservation of the microscopic architecture of the common bile duct in all cases.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous gallbladder cryoablation is feasible, with adequate ablation margins obtained and histologic changes demonstrating transmural necrosis. Adjacent structures included in the ablation may require conservative ablation zones, hydrodissection, or continuous saline lavage.

Multidisciplinary management of Mirizzi syndrome with cholecystobiliary fistula: the value of minimally invasive endoscopic surgery

Mirizzi syndrome, a rare complication of gallstones, is defined by obstruction of the main bile duct. This obstruction may worsen and thus result in cholecystobiliary fistula. Surgical management of Mirizzi syndrome is complicated by the presence of inflamed tissue around the hepatic pedicle, making it impossible to distinguish between the main bile duct and the gallbladder. The surgeon's first task is to perform subtotal cholecystotomy (from the fundus of the gallbladder to the neck) without trying to locate the cystic duct. In a second step, the gallstones are extracted and the main bile duct is then repaired. In most cases, a T-tube is used to drain the main bile duct, and abdominal drainage is left in place (in case a bile fistula forms). This study concluded that preoperative drainage of the main bile duct in the treatment of Mirizzi syndrome types II and III is feasible and might help to decrease the postoperative complication rate.

Postcholecystectomy bile duct injury and its sequelae: pathogenesis, classification, and management

A bile duct injury sustained during cholecystectomy can change the life of patients who submit themselves to a seemingly innocuous surgery. It has far-reaching medical, socioeconomic, and legal ramifications. Attention to detail, proper interpretation of variant anatomy, use of intraoperative cholangiography, and conversion to an open procedure in cases of difficulty can avoid/lessen the impact of some of these injuries. Once suspected, the aims of investigation are to establish the type and extent of injury and to plan the timing and mode of intervention. The principles of treatment are to control sepsis and to establish drainage of all liver segments with minimum chances of restricturing. Availability of expertise, morbidity, mortality, and quality of life issues dictate the modality of treatment chosen. Endoscopic intervention is the treatment of choice for minor leaks and provides outcomes comparable to surgery in selected patients with lateral injuries and partial strictures. A Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) by a specialist surgeon is the gold standard for high strictures, complete bile duct transection and has been shown to provide excellent long-term outcomes. Percutaneous intervention is invaluable in draining bile collections and is useful in treating post-HJ strictures. Combined biliovascular injuries, segmental atrophy, and secondary biliary cirrhosis with portal hypertension are special circumstances which are best managed by a multidisciplinary team at an experienced center for optimal outcomes.

Laparoscopy in the acute abdomen

Laparoscopy has become a routine procedure in the management of acute abdominal disease and can be considered both an excellent therapeutic and additional diagnostic tool in selected cases. However, a high level of expertise in laparoscopic and emergency surgery is required. Hemodynamic instability, huge abdominal distension, fecal peritonitis and perforated cancer are relative contraindications for the laparoscopic approach. In recent years, abdominal emergencies have increasingly been managed successfully by laparoscopy. In acute appendicitis, acute cholecystitis and perforated peptic ulcer, randomized controlled trials have proven that the laparoscopic approach is as safe and as effective as open surgery, with fewer complications and a quicker postoperative recovery. Other indications such as blunt and penetrating trauma to the abdomen, small bowel occlusion and perforated diverticular disease are under debate, indicating that more randomized controlled trials comparing laparoscopic and open surgery are still necessary.

Liver transplantation for "mass-forming" sclerosing cholangitis after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Chronic biliary obstruction consequence of a bile duct injury may require liver transplantation (LT) in case of secondary biliary cirrhosis, intractable pruritus or reiterate episodes of cholangitis. "Mass-forming" sclerosing cholangitis leading to secondary portal vein thrombosis and pre-sinusoidal portal hypertension has not been reported so far.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We present the case of a patient who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for Mirizzi syndrome. The persistent bile duct obstruction due to a residual gallstone fragment was treated by a prolonged biliary stenting. Following repeated bouts of cholangitis, a fibrous centrohepatic scar developed, conglobating and obstructing the main branches of the portal vein and of the biliary tree. The patient developed secondary portal vein thrombosis and portal hypertension. After an extensive diagnostic work-up, including surgical exploration to rule out malignancy, the case was successfully managed by liver transplantation.

DISCUSSION

Mass-forming sclerosis of the bile duct and biliary bifurcation may develop as a consequence of chronic biliary obstruction and prolonged stenting. Secondary portal vein thrombosis and pre-sinusoidal portal hypertension represents an unusual complication, mimicking Klatskin tumor.

CONCLUSION

A timely and proper management of post-cholecystectomy complications is of mainstay importance. Early referral to a specialized hepato-biliary center is strongly advised.

Mirizzi syndrome: History, current knowledge and proposal of a simplified classification

Chronic complications of symptomatic gallstone disease, such as Mirizzi syndrome, are rare in Western developed countries with an incidence of less than 1% a year. The importance and implications of this condition are related to their associated and potentially serious surgical complications such as bile duct injury, and to its modern management when encountered during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The pathophysiological process leading to the subtypes of Mirizzi syndrome has been explained by means of a pressure ulcer caused by an impacted gallstone at the gallbladder infundibulum, leading to an inflammatory response causing first external obstruction of the bile duct, and eventually eroding into the bile duct and evolving to a cholecystocholedochal or cholecystohepatic fistula. This article reviews the life of Pablo Luis Mirizzi, describes the earlier and later descriptions of Mirizzi syndrome, discusses the pathophysiological process leading to the development of these uncommon fistulas, reviews the current diagnostic modalities and surgical approaches and finally proposes a simplified classification for Mirizzi syndrome intended to standardize the reports on this condition and to eventually develop a consensual surgical approach to this unexpected and seriously dangerous condition.

Laparoscopic partial cholecystectomy for the difficult gallbladder: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

In the setting of difficult dissection of Calot's triangle during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, conversion is commonly advocated. An alternative approach aimed at preventing bile duct injury is laparoscopic partial cholecystectomy (LPC). The safety and efficacy of this procedure are unclear.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed independently by three researchers. The outcomes were conversion rate, hospital length of stay (LOS), bile duct injury, bile leak, symptomatic gallstones in the remnant gallbladder, need for reoperation, postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP), percutaneous intervention, and mortality.

RESULTS

The review included 15 publications, which reported on 625 patients. Four different operative techniques could be distinguished. Conversion to open (partial) cholecystectomy was performed in 10.4 % of the cases. The median LOS was 4.5 days (range, 0-48 days). The most common complication was postoperative bile leak, which occurred in 66 patients (10.6 %). One case of bile duct injury occurred. During the follow-up period, 2.2 % of the patients experienced recurrent symptoms of gallstones. Eight patients (2.7 %) underwent reoperation. Postoperative ERCP was performed for 26 (7.5 %) of 349 patients. A percutaneous intervention was performed for 5 (1.4 %) of 353 patients. Three deaths were described in the reviewed series (1 of pulmonary sepsis and 2 of myocardial infarctions). A rough comparison showed that fewer bile leaks, less need for ERCP, and less recurrent symptoms of gallstones seemed to occur when the cystic duct and gallbladder remnant were closed.

CONCLUSIONS

Literature concerning LPC is scarce. Four different LPC techniques can be distinguished. When a difficult gallbladder is encountered during LC, LPC seems to be a safe and feasible alternative to conversion. Closing of the cystic duct, gallbladder remnant, or both seems to be preferable.

Surgical management of acute cholecystitis: results of a 2-year prospective multicenter survey in Belgium

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is considered nowadays as the standard management of acute cholecystitis (AC). However, results from multicentric studies in the general surgical community are still lacking.

METHODS

A prospective multicenter survey of surgical management of AC patients was conducted over a 2-year period in Belgium. Operative features and patients' clinical outcome were recorded. The impact of independent predictive factors on the choice of surgical approach, the risk of conversion, and the occurrence of postoperative complications was studied by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Fifty-three surgeons consecutively and anonymously included 1,089 patients in this prospective study. A primary open approach was chosen in 74 patients (6.8%), whereas a laparoscopic approach was the first option in 1,015 patients (93.2%). Independent predictive factors for a primary open approach were previous history of upper abdominal surgery [odds ratio (OR) 4.13, p < 0.001], patient age greater than 70 years (OR 2.41, p < 0.05), surgeon with more than 10 years' experience (OR 2.08, p = 0.005), and gangrenous cholecystitis (OR 1.71, p < 0.05). In the laparoscopy group, 116 patients (11.4%) required conversion to laparotomy. Overall, 38 patients (3.5%) presented biliary complications and 49 had other local complications (4.5%). Incidence of bile duct injury was 1.2% in the whole series, 2.7% in the open group, and 1.1% in the laparoscopy group. Sixty patients had general complications (5.5%). The overall mortality rate was 0.8%. All patients who died were in poor general condition [American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) III or IV].

CONCLUSIONS

Although laparoscopic cholecystectomy is currently considered as the standard treatment for acute cholecystitis, an open approach is still a valid option in more advanced disease. However, overall mortality and incidence of bile duct injury remain high.

Visceral surgeon and intraoperative cholangiography: Survey about French Wild West surgeons

Cholecystectomy is one of the most common abdominal surgical procedures. No formal agreement has been reached about the routine practice of intraoperative cholangiography (IOC). The purpose of this survey was to describe the practices and the opinions of surgeons in western France. A survey was conducted among 300 visceral surgeons practicing in western France who were asked to respond to a questionnaire with objective and subjective items. One hundred forty-eight answers were interpretable. Among these 148 surgeons, 125 (83.4%) performed IOC routinely (IOCr group) and 23 (15.4%) selectively (IOCs group). Mean age of responding surgeons was 49.3 years. Groups IOCr and IOCs were not significantly different concerning surgical experience. Surgeons in both groups responded that IOC effectively screens for intraoperative bile duct injury. In our survey, routine practice of IOC was more common than reported by our English-speaking colleagues. The routine users responded that IOC can screen for intraoperative bile duct injury or choledocholithiasis. The selective users responded that IOC has its own morbidity. IOC is commonly performed in France during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Although it may not be indispensable, it allows rapid screening for intraoperative bile duct injury. It also provides documented proof of good surgical practice in the event of a litigation claim after bile duct injury.