Laparoscopic versus Open Roux-en-Y hepatojejunostomy for children with choledochal cysts: intermediate-term follow-up results. Surg Endosc. 2011;25:1567-1573. [PMID: 21052722 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-010-1435-x]

Komi type 2 pancreaticobiliary maljunction: Minimal access surgical treatment (with video)

Pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM) is associated with the development of neoplasms of bile ducts. Cholecystectomy with diversion of the biliary-pancreatic flow is considered the treatment of choice. To describe the surgical treatment employed for a patient with Komi's type 2 PBM and its long-term results. Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration, intraoperative cholangioscopy, and Roux-en-Y hepatico-jejunostomy were performed. Postoperative evolution was satisfactory. The patient was discharge 72 hours after the surgery. There was no associated morbidity. At 62-month follow-up, clinical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies confirmed an adequate patency of bilio-enteric anastomosis. The surgical approach employed was effective and safe, with satisfactory long-term results.

Robot-assisted resection of choledochal cyst in neonates

OBJECTIVE

Laparoscopic choledochectomy and hepatojejunostomy have been reported in children since 1995, but this procedure is technically demanding. Robotic surgical systems can simplify complex minimally invasive procedures. Currently, few reports have been made on neonates. We present the experience of 6 cases of neonatal CC(choledochal cysts).

STUDY DESIGN

Between January 2022 and December 2023, 6 neonates underwent robotic resection of choledochal cyst and hepaticojejunostomy using the Da Vinci surgical system at Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, a high-volume hepatobiliary disease center. demographic data of the patients and surgical outcomes were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

All 6 patients were successfully treated by robotic cystectomy and hepaticojejunostomy. The mean age was 17.3 days (range 4-25) and the mean weight was 3.6 kg (range 2.55-4.4). 5 cysts were type Ia and 1 was type Iva. The mean diameter of the cysts was 3.8 cm (range 1.25-5). The mean time to establish feeding was 4.83 days (range 4-6), and patients were discharged after a median time of 16.83 days (range 7-42) without postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This procedure is safe and effective for neonates. The authors found that the use of robot-assisted surgery has ergonomic advantages in this delicate, minimally invasive procedure.

Early and Long-term Complications of Robotic Assisted Laparoscopy in Infants and Children

BACKGROUND

Robotic-assisted laparoscopy still lacks wide acceptance in infants and children. We developed the service and report the largest single institution experience of complications over a period of 11 years.

METHODS

Between March 2006 and May 2017, consecutive infants and children who underwent robotic assisted laparoscopy under the care of two laparoscopic surgeons were studied. Data for patients, surgeons, year of surgery, operation, and timing, nature, grades of complications were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 601 robotic procedures (45 different types) were carried out in 539 patients. Of these 31 (5.8%) were converted, none for operative complications. These and another 4 with complicated co-morbidity were excluded, leaving 504 patients for further analysis. There were 60 (11.9%) complications in 57 (11.3%) patients. Mean (SD) age was 7.7 years -/+5.1 with the youngest being 4 weeks. Concomitant or bilateral robotic and non-robotic procedures took place in 8.1% and 13.3% of patients respectively. Significant medical co-morbidity and abdominal scarring were present in 29% and 14.9% of patients respectively. Complications occurred in theatre 1.6%, hospital 5.6%, 28 days 1.2%, and late 3.6%. Mean follow up was 7.6 years -/+ 3.1 SD. Over-all postoperative complication rate was 10.3%: CD grade I 6.5% (33), II 0.6% (3), and IIIa/b 3.2% (16) which included 1.4% (7) re-do surgery. Most (11/16) grade III occurred late. There were no bleeding, grade IV or V complications, surgical mortality, or technology related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Complications are low even during the learning phase and while developing the new technique. Most complications occurred early and were minor. Most high-grade complications presented late.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

2B.

The strategy of laparoscopic surgery for asymptomatic antenatally diagnosed choledochal cyst

BACKGROUND

The aim was to investigate the characteristics, surgical management, and outcomes of asymptomatic patients with antenatally diagnosed choledochal cysts (ADCCs) and to justify the strategy of laparoscopic surgery (LS) for them in our hospital.

METHODS

We developed our LS strategy for asymptomatic ADCCs. Patients with asymptomatic ADCCs who underwent LS or open surgery (OS) during January 2010 and January 2020 were included. Patients with recorded symptomatic ADCCs were exclude. All data of group LS and group OS were statistically compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients received LS and 18 patients received OS were included. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the groups. A total of 65.1% of biliary sludge formation was detected preoperatively by ultrasonography (US) (72.0% in group LS, 55.6% in group OS, P = 0.26). Compared to the OS group, the LS group had a longer operative time (313.4 ± 27.2 vs. 154.0 ± 11.9 min, P = 0.02), shorter postoperative fasting period (3.1 ± 1.2 vs. 6.2 ± 2.3 days, P = 0.03), and shorter postoperative hospital stay (5.1 ± 1.9 vs. 9.2 ± 1.1 days, P = 0.03). The incidence of late complications, such as reflux cholangitis, adhesive intestinal obstruction, and biliary enteric anastomotic stricture with stone formation, was not significantly different between the two groups. The liver function and liver stiffness of all patients in the two groups were normal.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the strategy for asymptomatic ADCCs in our hospital, the perioperative safety and midterm follow-up results after LS were satisfactory and comparable to those after OS.

Curative effect and technical key points of laparoscopic surgery for choledochal cysts in children

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the curative effect of and experience with laparoscopic surgery for congenital choledochal cysts in children.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of 33 children diagnosed with congenital choledochal cyst in the pediatric surgery department of the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University between January 2019 and December 2021. The cohort included 8 males and 25 females aged 0.25-13.7 years (median age, 3.2 years), including 21 cases of type I and 12 cases of type IV choledochal cyst (Todani classification). Laparoscopic choledochal cyst resection and hepaticojejunostomy with Roux-en-Y anastomosis were performed in all the patients.

Results

Laparoscopy without transit opening was successfully performed in the 33 cases. The duration of the procedure was 235-460 min (mean ± SD, 316 ± 61 min), and intraoperative blood loss volume was 15-40 ml (23 ± 7.6 ml). Postoperative hospital stay was 7-14 days (9 ± 1.8 days). Postoperative biliary fistula and pancreatitis occurred in two cases each, and all four patients were successfully treated with conservative treatment. No anastomotic stenosis, delayed bleeding, cholangitis, intestinal obstruction, or other complications occurred. All the children were followed up for 2-36 months (median period, 17.2 months). The clinical symptoms disappeared, and no obvious hepatic dysfunction was found on abdominal color ultrasound and liver function examination.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic surgery for congenital choledochal cyst in children is safe and effective, as it is a minimally invasive surgery that is associated with a low degree of trauma and bleeding, rapid postoperative recovery, and satisfactory aesthetic appearance.

Comparison of efficacy and safety of robotic surgery and laparoscopic surgery for choledochal cyst in children: a systematic review and proportional meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Most commonly, cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy reconstruction are the optimal treatment for choledochal cysts (CC). Robotic surgery (RS) is being conducted with increasing frequency to treat CC. It is unclear whether RS can overcome the limitations of laparoscopic surgery (LS) and improve the prognosis of patients. In terms of efficacy, evidence concerning which minimally invasive surgery is preferred is, however, sparse. Our objective is to further compare the efficacy of RS and LS in children with CC and draw a useful clinical conclusion.

METHODS

Studies meeting inclusion criteria were identified from a series of databases, consisting of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library and their reference list of articles up to May 2022. Eligible articles comprised at least five objects that were younger than 18 years of age and the language was limited to English. Two authors independently evaluated selected studies and extracted data for analysis.

RESULTS

Forty studies were selected for analysis, with thirty-six reporting data on LS and eight containing data on RS. The pooled conversion rate and pooled postoperative complication rate of RS were lower than those of LS, but none of them was statistically significant. Moreover, comparisons of the following detailed postoperative complication rates were not statistically significant, such as intestinal obstruction or ileus, anastomotic bleeding, anastomotic or bile leakage, and anastomotic stenosis. However, the intraoperative blood loss and the postoperative hospital stay in RS group were significantly lower than those in LS group.

CONCLUSIONS

RS is a safe and feasible option for children with CC. Further studies with more cases, long-term efficacy and health economics analysis are needed to confirm whether RS is more advantageous.

Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy or hepaticoduodenostomy for biliary reconstruction after resection of congenital biliary dilatation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The ideal surgical management for reconstruction after excision of congenital biliary dilatation remains controversial. This updated meta-analysis compared the clinical outcomes of hepaticoduodenostomy (HD) and hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) after resection of congenital biliary dilatation. PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Ovid, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies published from November 1981 through July 2020. The primary outcomes were the operative time, enteral feeding time, hospital stay, and postoperative complications. The quality and risk of bias were assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using random-effects models. Thirteen total studies included 518 (55.76%) HD cases and 411 (44.24%) HJ cases. Five studies were published post-2013; one was a randomized clinical trial. Patients undergoing HD had a shorter hospital stay (MD, 0.40; p = 0.02) and operative time (MD, 59.54; p < 0.00001) and a lower incidence of adhesive intestinal obstruction (OR, 0.20; p = 0.02) than HJ. HD was comparable to conventional HJ with regard to most postoperative outcomes; however, it was associated with a higher incidence of postoperative bilious gastritis (OR, 6.24; p = 0.002). HD is as safe and feasible as HJ with better outcomes in the short run, although reports with long-term follow-up are relatively few. Long-term follow-up will be necessary to monitor possible associated malignancies in the future.

Postoperative anastomotic stricture following excision of choledochal cyst: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Postoperative anastomotic stricture (PAS) is a well-known complication after correcting choledochal cyst (CC). Although the exact cause of PAS is unknown, various risk factors, such as Todani classification type IV-A, hepaticoduodenostomy, and narrow anastomosis have been reported to be associated with PAS. As far as we know, there is no report with a cumulative analysis of such risk factors of PAS. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the risk factors of PAS following surgical correction of CC in children.

METHODS

A systematic literature search for relevant articles was performed in four databases using the combinations of the following terms "Congenital biliary dilatation", "Congenital choledochal cyst", "Choledochal cyst", "Stenosis", "Stricture", and "Complication" for studies published between 1973 and 2022. The relevant cohorts of PAS were systematically searched for clinical presentation and outcomes.

RESULTS

The search strategy identified 795 reports. Seventy studies met the defined inclusion criteria, reporting a total of 206 patients with PAS. There is no prospective study in this search. The incidence of PAS was 2.1%. The proportion of Todani classification of the patient with PAS was higher in type IV-A with significant difference (2.0% in type I and 10.1% in type IV-A (p = 0.001)). Fourteen studies reported a comparison between hepaticojejunostomy and hepaticoduodenostomy. There was no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.36). Four studies reported the diameter of the anastomosis at the primary surgery. The mean diameter was 12.5 mm. Nine studies reported a comparison between laparoscopic surgery and open surgery. Pooled odds ratio of PAS did not show a statistical difference (p = 0.29).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that close careful follow-up is important in the patients with type IV-A of CC who underwent excision surgery, considering the possibility of PAS.

The Role of Laparoscopic Treatment of Choledochal Malformation in Europe: A Single-Center Experience and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

 Numerous studies from Asian countries, including large collectives, have reported excellent results after laparoscopic resection of choledochal malformation (CM). However, the role of laparoscopic CM resection is still controversial outside Asia. We aimed to analyze the outcome of laparoscopic CM resection in our institution and to compare our outcome with the data reported in the literature.

METHODS

 All patients who underwent laparoscopic CM resection in our pediatric surgical department from 2002 to 2019 were retrospectively analyzed for surgical details and postoperative complications, which were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. A systematic literature search identified all reports on over 10 cases of laparoscopic pediatric CM resection and surgical details, follow-up, and complication rates were extracted.

RESULTS

 Fifty-seven patients (72% female) with a mean age of 3.6 + 4.1 years underwent laparoscopic CM resection in our department. Conversion rate was 30%. Total complication rate was 28%. The rate of major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade III or more) was 16% and included stricture of the biliodigestive or enteric anastomosis (n = 4), adhesive ileus (n = 3), portal vein thrombosis (n = 1), and recurrent cholangitis with consecutive liver transplantation (n = 1). With increasing experience, complication rates decreased. The majority of publications on laparoscopic CM resections originated from Asia (n = 36) and reported on low complication rates. In contrast, publications originating from non-Asian countries (n = 5) reported on higher complications following laparoscopic CM resection.

CONCLUSION

 Our data indicate that laparoscopic CM resection can be safely performed. The learning curve in combination with the low incidence calls for a centralization of patients who undergo laparoscopic CM resection. There seems to be a discrepancy on complications rates reported from Asian and non-Asian countries following laparoscopic CM resection.

Laparoscopic definitive surgery for choledochal cyst is performed safely and effectively in infants

Background:

Laparoscopic definitive surgery for choledochal cyst (CC) in infants requires advanced skills because of their small size. If patients with a prenatal diagnosis of CC have any biliary symptoms, they need semi-emergency definitive surgery. This study aimed to estimate whether laparoscopic definitive surgery for CC can be performed safely and effectively in infants, especially when emergency surgery is required.

Patients and Methods:

From January 2006 to December 2019, 21 patients under 1 year of age underwent laparoscopically or open definitive surgery, and 16 patients aged 3–5 years underwent laparoscopic surgery for CC at our institution. In cases of prenatal diagnosis, elective surgery (EL) was performed at about 6 months of age for patients with no biliary symptoms; the semi-emergency surgery (EM) was performed when patients had any biliary symptoms. Surgical outcomes were retrospectively compared between the Lap <1 y and Op <1 y groups and between the Lap <1 y and Lap 3–5 y groups. In addition, the surgical outcomes of those who underwent EM were also evaluated.

Results:

Operative time was significantly longer, and blood loss was significantly lower in the Lap <1 y group than in the Op <1 y group. All surgical outcomes were similar between the Lap <1 y and Lap 3–5 y groups and between the EM and EL groups.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic definitive surgery for CC in infants under 1 year of age is safe and feasible. Even semi-emergency laparoscopic surgery can be performed safely and effectively in small infants.

Comparison of outcomes and safety of laparoscopic and robotic-assisted cyst excision and hepaticojejunostomy for choledochal cysts: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

Minimally invasive cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomies include laparoscopic and robotic-assisted operations. The current systematic review and meta-analysis compared the efficacy between the 2 groups.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Wiley, Cochrane Library and Clinical Trials was performed from May 1995 to December 2021. The primary outcome was postoperative complications, and the secondary outcomes were operative details and postoperative outcomes.

Results

The meta-analysis enrolled 6 reports including 484 patients (307 in the laparoscopic group and 177 in the robotic-assisted group). The laparoscopic group was associated with lower expenses (MD = −3851.60$, 95% CI = −4031.84 to −3671.36$, P < 0.00001). No significant difference was found in short-term complications (RR = 1.55, 95% CI = 0.74 to 3.23, P = 0.24), long-term complications (RR = 1.40, 95% CI = 0.63 to 3.10, P = 0.41), total complications (RR = 1.53, 95% CI = 0.59 to 3.94, P = 0.38), operative time (MD = −28.75 min, 95% CI = −77.13 to 19.64 min, P = 0.24), blood loss (MD = 2.28 ml, 95% CI = −13.51 to 18.06 ml, P = 0.78) or hospital stays (MD = 0.89 days, 95% CI = −0.13 to 1.91 days, P = 0.09). In subgroup analysis, the laparoscopic operation had shorter operative time (MD = −4.45 min, P = 0.009), and less blood loss (MD = −63.18 ml, P = 0.01) in adult patients.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy have comparable postoperative outcomes.

•

Comparison the efficacy of laparoscopic versus robotic-assisted operation.

•

Reviewing the robotic-assisted operation for choledochal cysts.

•

The advantages and disadvantages of two methods.

Laparoscopic definitive surgery for congenital biliary dilatation with aggressive hilar bile ductoplasty and complete resection of the intrapancreatic bile duct in pediatric patients is safe and effective, comparable to open surgery

BACKGROUND

After surgery for congenital biliary dilatation (CBD), hilar and hepatic bile duct stenosis and intrapancreatic bile duct remnants can cause many postoperative complications. We investigated the efficacy of laparoscopic surgery with aggressive bile ductoplasty and complete excision of the intrapancreatic bile duct in CBD patients compared to open surgery.

METHODS

Pediatric patients who underwent surgery for CBD at our institution between 2006 and 2020 were divided into two groups: laparoscopic surgery (Lap group) and open surgery (Op group). Surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

We enrolled 160 patients (85 in the Lap group and 75 in the Op group). Hilar bile ductoplasty was performed in 52 (61%) patients from the Lap group and 40 (53%) patients from the Op group. The operative time was significantly longer, the amount of blood loss was significantly lower, and the length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the Lap group than in the Op group. Postoperative early and late complications occurred at a similarly low rate in both groups. When the surgical outcomes were compared between the group who underwent laparoscopic bile ductoplasty and the group that did not, postoperative early and late complications occurred similarly in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic surgery for CBD with aggressive hilar bile ductoplasty and complete excision of the intrapancreatic bile duct is safe and effective, comparable to open surgery. However, it is necessary to verify whether long-term occurrence of hepatolithiasis similar to open definitive surgery can be obtained in the future.

Laparoscopic versus Open Pediatric Surgery: Three Decades of Comparative Studies

INTRODUCTION

 Despite its wide acceptance, the superiority of laparoscopic versus open pediatric surgery has remained controversial. There is still a call for well-founded evidence. We reviewed the literature on studies published in the last three decades and dealing with advantages and disadvantages of laparoscopy compared to open surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 Studies comparing laparoscopic versus open abdominal procedures in children were searched in PubMed/MEDLINE. Reports on upper and lower gastrointestinal as hepatobiliary surgery and on surgery of pancreas and spleen were included. Advantages and disadvantages of laparoscopic surgery were analyzed for different types of procedures. Complications were categorized using the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

 A total of 239 studies dealing with 19 types of procedures and outcomes in 929,157 patients were analyzed. We identified 26 randomized controlled trials (10.8%) and 213 comparative studies (89.2%). The most frequently reported advantage of laparoscopy was shorter hospital stay in 60.4% of studies. Longer operative time was the most frequently reported disadvantage of laparoscopy in 52.7% of studies. Clavien-Dindo grade I to III complications (mild-moderate) were less frequently identified in laparoscopic compared to open procedures (80.3% of studies). Grade-IV complications (severe) were less frequently reported after laparoscopic versus open appendectomy for perforated appendicitis and more frequently after laparoscopic Kasai's portoenterostomy. We identified a decreased frequency of reporting on advantages after laparoscopy and increased reporting on disadvantages for all surgery types over the decades.

CONCLUSION

 Laparoscopic compared with open pediatric surgery seems to be beneficial in most types of procedures. The number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) remains limited. However, the number of reports on disadvantages increased during the past decades.

Laparoscopic hepaticoduodenostomy for choledochal cysts in children <1 year

CONTEXT

Choledochal cyst (CHC) is one of the most common causes of surgical jaundice in infants. In 1955, Farello et al. were the first to introduce the laparoscopic approach for treatment of CHC.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Minimally invasive approaches to the management of CHC excision have been done in pre-schoolers and above but have not yet been described in toddlers, let alone infants. Herein, we review the results of 10 consecutive children <1 year managed with laparoscopic CHC excision and hepaticoduodenostomy.

METHODS

This retrospective study investigated 10 infants who underwent laparoscopic resection of a CHC with creation of a hepaticoduodenostomy.

RESULTS

This study was performed on 10 consecutive patients <1 year. Liver fibrosis was found in 4 patients. We had 7 cases with Type 1 CHCs and 3 cases with Type IV A cysts. Total cyst excision was done in all patients, no cases needed blood transfusion and the mean operative time was 200 min. The mean hospital stay was 6 days. Overall, morbidity occurred in 20% of the cases presenting with bouts of cholangitis that resolved without any intervention, once at 6 months, the other at 1-year post-operative. There were neither anastomotic strictures nor biliary fistula formation; magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography was done to these two cases revealed no stricture and mortality at 30 and 90 days was nil.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic hepaticoduodenostomy in CHC in children <1 year is safe, with satisfactory short-term results.

Modified Laparoscopic Excision of Choledochal Cyst: Technique and Early Results

BACKGROUND

Choledochal cyst is a common congenital anomaly requiring surgical treatment. Nowadays, laparoscopic excision is the preferred approach. We studied a modification in the classical laparoscopic approach to facilitate the dissection of a cyst.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective comparative study was done on 42 Type I choledochal cyst children. One group was operated by classical laparoscopic technique, while the other group was operated by modification of classical technique by deliberately opening the cyst wall and dividing the cyst into two hemi-cups, followed by dissection and excision. The intraoperative and postoperative parameters were assessed in both the groups.

RESULTS

The age, gender ratio, clinical presentation, and cyst diameter were comparable in both the groups. There was a significantly higher success rate (95.7% vs. 73.7%, P = 0.042) and lesser time for cyst excision (96.43 ± 12.15 vs. 120.91 ± 17.38 min P < 0.001) in the modified technique when compared to the classical technique. Further in three patients, it was possible to convert the classical procedure to a modified technique and complete the cyst excision. The postoperative outcomes were similar in both the groups.

CONCLUSION

The modified laparoscopic excision shortens the operative time with higher success rate and comparable short-term morbidity vis-a-vis classical laparoscopic technique.

[Surgical treatment of common bile duct malformations in children]

The review is devoted to the current classifications of common bile duct malformations, authors' opinion regarding surgical approach and reconstruction of the bile ducts. The authors describe the modern modifications of bile duct reconstructions and estimate their effectiveness. PubMed database, Google Scholar and National Scientific Electronic Library eLIBRARY.ru databases were used. We analyzed the complications in children depending on various reconstructions, anatomical form, timing of reconstructive surgery and early diagnosis of this pathology.

Comparison of long-term biliary complications between open and laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision in children

Purpose

Cyst excision with hepaticojejunostomy has been the classic procedure for treating choledochal cysts, and the use of laparoscopic treatment has been favored recently. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term biliary complication of laparoscopic operation with open surgery for choledochal cyst presenting in children.

Methods

A retrospective study comparing the laparoscopic and open procedures was performed in 185 patients with choledochal cyst in a single children's hospital. There were 109 patients who were operated with open surgery, and 76 patients operated with laparoscopic surgery. The primary outcome was long-term biliary complications and the secondary outcome included operative time, intraoperative transfusion, length of hospital stay, and other late postoperative complications.

Results

In the patient's demographics, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups. Notably, it was shown that the operative time was longer in the laparoscopic group. The number of patients requiring blood transfusion intraoperatively was lower in the laparoscopic group. It was noted that the hospital stay was not statistically different. The duration to resumption of diet and duration of drainage were longer in the laparoscopic group. Biliary complications were shown to be significantly higher in the open group. The risk factor for long-term biliary complications was noted with the intraoperative transfusion.

Conclusion

The use of a laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision with hepaticojejunostomy is a safe and feasible technique in a young patient. The long-term biliary complication was lower compared to open surgery, rendering this a good option for pediatric patients.

Comparison of efficacy and safety of laparoscopic excision and open operation in children with choledochal cysts: A systematic review and update meta-analysis

Objective

The outcomes of children with Choledochal cyst who undergo laparoscopic cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy versus open cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy have not been adequately compared. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to gain further insight into the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic excision in children with choledochal cysts.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases from January 1973 to January 31, 2020 was performed utilizing the PRISMA guidelines. Short-term, long-term and total postoperative complications were the primary endpoint measurements, whereas intraoperative outcomes and other postoperative outcomes were the secondary endpoints.

Results

The final analysis included 14 retrospective cohorts comprising 1767 patients. There were no significant differences in the patients’ short-term postoperative complications (RR = -1.08; 95% CI = -1.72 to -0.67) between the 2 approaches. However, improvements in long-term (RR = 0.09; 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.18) and total postoperative complications (RR = -0.29; 95% CI = -0.40 to -0.21), estimated intraoperative blood loss and transfusion, time of initial feeding, and length of hospital stay were observed in patients who underwent laparoscopic excision when compared to those who underwent open surgery.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy provides similar or even improved intraoperative, postoperative outcomes when compared to open excision for children with Choledochal cyst.

Outcomes in robotic versus laparoscopic-assisted choledochal cyst excision and hepaticojejunostomy in children

BACKGROUND

Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) is becoming more popular because of the excellent performance in anastomosis and knot tying, especially in complex surgical procedures such as hepaticojejunostomy. As for operative time and costs, laparoscopic-assisted surgery (LAS) seem to be more advantageous. To date, there are only limited studies focusing on the comparison between RAS and LAS. This study aims to investigate differences in intraoperative and postoperative outcomes between robotic and laparoscopic approaches.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective case-control study of 140 patients operated via mini-invasive approaches for choledochal cyst (CC) excision and hepaticojejunostomy at the Wuhan Union Hospital from Jun 2014 to Dec 2019. A multivariable logistic regression model for odds to having complications was built.

RESULTS

The two groups were similar in age, sex, follow-up time, and Todani modification of the Alonso-Lej classification distribution. Patients undergoing RAS had longer overall operative time, shorter cyst excision time, shorter hepaticojejunostomy time, less estimated blood loss, a smaller postoperative high fever rate, shorter postoperative LOS, and a lower postoperative complication rate. Moreover, the intraoperative anatomy structures were more explicit in group RAS, such as the exposure of left or right hepatic duct opening and intrapancreatic bile duct. Multivariable logistic regression showed that longer hepaticojejunostomy time was the only risk factor of postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

Robotic-assisted CC excision and hepaticojejunostomy was associated with better intraoperative and short-term postoperative outcomes when compared to laparoscopic-assisted surgery.

Comparison of Characteristics and Outcomes in Antenatally and Postnatally Detected Choledochal Cyst in Infants and Young Children in a Laparoscopic Surgery Center

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics and the outcome between infants and young children with antenatally (AN) and postnatally (PN) detected choledochal cyst (CC) in a laparoscopic surgery center. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted for all children who underwent excision of CC and hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) before 36 months of age between October 2004 and October 2019. Results: Thirty-nine children (28 girls and 11 boys) were included in this study. Twenty-one children had AN detected CC and 18 had PN detected CC. The median age at operation (AN vs. PN; 3 months vs. 15.5 months, P < .001) and body weight (AN vs. PN; 5.6 kg vs. 10.5 kg, P < .001) were significantly different between the two groups. Children in PN group has an increased risk of being symptomatic (AN vs. PN; 6 vs. 18, P < .001) and having intervention before operation (AN vs. PN; 0 vs. 4, P = .037). Laparoscopic excision was performed in all children in AN group and in 12 children (66.7%) in PN group (P = .006). Conversion to open HJ was performed in 4 children in AN group but none in PN group (P = .146). There was no statistical differences in success in laparoscopic operation (P = .257), median operative time (P = .094), postoperative complication (P = .576), and median length of hospital stay (P = .749). Conclusions: Despite younger age at operation, the outcome of laparoscopic excision of AN detected CC was comparable with PN detected CC. Earlier detection and operation decreased the risk of preoperative intervention.

[Biliary tract surgery in childhood]

In contrast to gallstones, which are increasingly diagnosed in children and adolescents, congenital or perinatally acquired malformations of the biliary tree are rare entities. The surgical treatment of these diseases frequently represents a technical challenge. For children with biliary atresia Kasai portoenterostomy is a therapeutic option in the first weeks of life. Most affected children, however, require a liver transplantation before they enter adulthood. Segmental dilatations of the bile duct carry the risk of ascending infections and malignant transformation. This requires early resection of the biliary tree and reconstruction with a bilioenteric anastomosis. While laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the standard approach also for children, the value of minimally invasive procedures for more complex surgical procedures of the biliary tract has not yet been defined.

Minimally-invasive neonatal surgery: laparoscopic excision of choledochal cysts in neonates

Purpose

Improvements in surgical techniques and a better understanding of the unique anesthetic requirements in neonates undergoing laparoscopy have suggested that laparoscopic surgery may be effective in newborns. This study therefore evaluated the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic excision of the cyst (LEC) in neonates.

Methods

This retrospective study included 43 neonates who underwent excision of choledochal cysts between November, 2001, and January, 2018, including 21 who underwent open excision and 22 who underwent LEC. Their perioperative and surgical outcomes were reviewed. The patients were followed up for a median 37 months (range, 3–141 months).

Results

Baseline characteristics did not differ significantly in the open and LEC groups. Mean intraoperative peak partial pressure of arterial CO₂ (PaCO₂) (45.5 mmHg vs. 48.0 mmHg) and total operation time (208.3 ± 71.0 minutes vs. 235.0 ± 47.2 minutes) were similar in both groups. Parents of the patients in the LEC group provided a more positive evaluation of scar scale and greater satisfaction with wound. No patient in either group experienced any critical complications. Three patients in the open excision group required readmission for cholangitis and 2 patients had ileus. No patient in the laparoscopic excision group experienced any postoperative complications during follow-up.

Conclusion

Despite difficulties performing laparoscopic surgery in neonates, LEC was safe and feasible when intraperitoneal peak pressure was maintained under 10 mmHg and PaCO₂ was closely monitored by a pediatric anesthesiologist. Compared with open excision, LEC provided improved cosmetic outcomes without severe complications. Prospective randomized studies with large numbers of patients are warranted.

Laparoscopic Surgery in the treatment of children with Choledochal Cyst

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of children with choledochal cyst.

METHODS

Seventy-six children with congenital choledochal cyst who were admitted to our hospital between February 2016 and April 2017 were selected as research subjects. They were evenly divided into an observation group and a control group using random number table, 38 each group. Patients in the observation group underwent laparoscopic surgery, while patients in the control group underwent the traditional laparotomy. Surgery related indicators and prognosis were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The incision size and intraoperative bleeding volume of the observation group were significantly smaller than those of the control group (P<0.05). The time of passage of flatus and time to take food of the observation group were easier than those of the control group, and the duration of hospitalization and parenteral nutrition of the former was significantly shorter than those of the latter, and the difference had statistical significance (P<0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications in the observation group was 2.6%, significantly lower than that in the control group (10.5%) (P<0.05). There was no recurrence in the observation group during the follow-up period, but there were 5 cases of recurrence (13.1%) in the control group; the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Compared with the traditional laparotomy, laparoscopic surgery conforms more to the concept of modern medical minimally invasive treatment and has a significant clinical effect in the treatment of congenital choledochal cyst in children. It can effectively promote the disappearance of clinical symptoms and signs, reduce the incidence of postoperative complications and disease recurrence, and improve the surgical efficacy, suggesting high clinical significance and application values.

Learning curve of laparoscopic Kasai portoenterostomy for biliary atresia: report of 100 cases

Background

Laparoscopic Kasai portoenterostomy (LKPE) is performed for biliary atresia (BA). As LKPE is a technically demanding operation, a learning curve should be defined to guide training. The aim of this study was to identify the learning curve of LKPE for BA.

Methods

Metrics of perioperative safety and efficiency for 100 cases of LKPE were evaluated. Outcomes were followed to 67.2 ± 12.1 months. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis was used to identify inflexion point corresponding to the learning curve. Outcome measures included operative time (ORT), rate of clearance of jaundice (CJ) and survival with native liver (SNL).

Results

Between May 2009 and May 2013, 100 consecutive patients with BA underwent LKPE. The rate of conversion from LKPE to open Kasai portoenterostomy (OKPE), intraoperative transfusion and any perioperative complications was 11, 26 and 16%, respectively. There was no perioperative mortality. The CUSUM analysis revealed a learning curve of 50 for LKPE. Precipitous ORT reductions from an initial mean operative time of 316.3 min that was observed in the first 50 to 232.2 min of the late 50 cases (P < 0.01). Subsequently, cases 1 to 50 were considered ‘early experience’, whereas cases 51 and higher were considered as ‘late experience’ for statistical analysis. The rate of CJ and SNL was significantly higher after the early 50 cases (P < 0.05). In contrast, the rate of intraoperative transfusion, the median time of oral feeding initiated after operation, and the length of hospital stay was not different between the both groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

In this experience, improved perioperative and postoperative parameters for LKPE were observed in the last 50 patients when compared with the first 50 patients. The dedicated training is likely to contribute to significantly shorter learning curves in future adopters.

Factors affecting the operating time for complete cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy in paediatric cases of congenital choledochal malformation: a retrospective case study in Southeast China

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate factors affecting the operating time for complete cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy in paediatric cases of congenital choledochal malformation (CCM).

DESIGN

A 3-year retrospective study was undertaken between January 2013 and December 2015 in four centres in China.

SETTING

This involved a retrospective chart review of paediatric patients with CCM in four large hospitals in Southeast China.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty-five paediatric patients with CCM were included in this study. We derived all available information on patient demographics, clinical characteristics, preoperative complications and surgical methods from the charts of all these patients.

INTERVENTIONS

Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate factors significantly affecting the operating time for complete cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy in paediatric cases of CCM.

RESULTS

Twenty-three of the 65 case surgeries were performed using laparoscopic technique, and 42 surgeries were performed by conventional open surgery. The median operating time was 215 min (range 120-430 min). The morphological subtype of CCM and the presence of cholecystitis or cholangitis were the only factors found to affect the operating time (p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis confirmed cholangitis as an independent risk factor.

CONCLUSIONS

The morphological subtype of CMM and the presence of cholecystitis or cholangitis are factors affecting the operating time for complete cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy in paediatric cases of CCM, whereas cholangitis is an independent risk factor.

Cysto-cholecystostomy: A More Physiological Procedure for Hepatic Cysts with Biliary Communications and Cystic Dilatations of Main Intrahepatic Ducts

OBJECTIVE

Hepatic cysts with biliary communications (HC) and cystic dilatations of main intrahepatic ducts (CIHD) can cause biliary obstruction, cholestasis, stone formation, cholangitis, liver damage and carcinoma. Conventionally, Roux-Y cysto-jejunostomy is employed to manage these conditions. However, it is technically demanding and may be complicated with major biliary disruption and bacteria migration from intestine to intrahepatic duct. We have carried out laparoscopic cysto-cholecystostomies for HC with biliary communication and CIHD and evaluated outcomes.

METHODS

Twenty patients with HC (n = 10) or CIHD (n = 10) who successfully underwent laparoscopic cysto-cholecystostomies in our center, between September 2010 and March 2017, were reviewed.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients at surgery was 2.06 and 2.23 years for HC and CIHD groups, respectively. Eighteen patients were symptomatic, with abdominal pain, fever, vomiting and jaundice. Laboratory results showed abnormal liver functions in 8 patients. Pathological results verified hepatic cellular damages in 8 patients. The mean operative time was 0.97 and 0.92 h for HC and CIHD patients, respectively. The median follow-up duration was 27 months (1-54 months) and 35 months (1-79 months) for HC and CIHD groups, respectively. No patient developed bile leak, anastomotic stenosis, stone formation or cholangitis. Liver function normalized postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic cysto-cholecystostomy is a simpler and more physiological surgical alternative for managing HC with biliary communication and CIHD.

Single-incision laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy for children with perforated choledochal cysts

BACKGROUND

Conventionally, perforated choledochal cyst (CDC) is a contraindication of laparoscopic treatment. The current study is to evaluate efficacy of single-incision laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy (SILH) in children with perforated CDCs.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty-three children with perforated CDCs who underwent SILHs in our hospital between August 2011 and August 2017 were reviewed.

RESULTS

Fifteen (11.3%) patients were converted to open procedures due to severe adhesions and oozing. The mean age at SILH was 2.09 years (range 2 days-12.37 years). The average operative time was 3.23 h (range 2-5 h). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 6.25 days (range 4-16 days). The mean time to full diet resumption was 2.18 days (range 2-6 days). The mean duration of drainage was 3.71 days (range 3-10 days). The median follow-up period was 24 months. Postoperative liver function tests and serum amylase levels returned to normal within 1 year. Three (2.5%) patients required blood transfusions because of extensive oozing from intramural micro-vessels of CDCs. Two (1.7%) patients encountered duodenal injuries because of severe adhesions. The duodenum was repaired with double-layer 5-0 PDS running sutures. One (0.8%) patient with giant CDC had abdominal fluids because of extensive dissection of intrapancreatic segment of CDC. He recovered after 10 days of drainage. None of patients had bile leak, anastomotic stenosis, cholangitis, intrahepatic reflux, pancreatic leak, pancreatic calculi formation, pancreatitis, Roux-loop obstruction, or adhesive intestinal obstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-incision laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy is safe and effective for selected patients with perforated CDCs in experienced hands.

Minimally Invasive Hepatobiliary Surgery

Comparative studies and large-scale case series that confirm the advantages of laparoscopy in children with hepatobiliary diseases are scarce, and the use of laparoscopy remains a matter of debate. This article reviews the current literature on the role of laparoscopic and robotic surgery in pediatric patients with choledochal cyst, biliary atresia, gallbladder diseases, and hepatobiliary malignancies. Studies were identified through a search of the MEDLINE database. Laparoscopy may be beneficial for resection of choledochal cyst and cholecystectomy. However, more data are required before recommendations on the use of minimally invasive techniques for other hepatobiliary conditions can be published.

Pediatric choledochal cysts: diagnosis and current management

Choledochal cysts are rare congenital disorders first described by Vater and Ezler in 1723. Their exact etiology remains incompletely understood; however, an anomalous pancreaticobiliary union (APBDU) and subsequent reflux of biliary contents into the biliary tree are thought to play a role. Accordingly, APBDU-associated choledochal cyst patients are significantly more likely to have evidence of hepatitis, cholangitis or pancreatitis and pathologically confirmed inflammation. In 1977, Todani and colleagues modified the original Alonso-Lej classification to include five types of CC. Type I and IV are the most common and most likely to be associated with malignancy. The majority of choledochal cysts are diagnosed in childhood. Clinical presentation varies and most often consists of nonspecific abdominal pain. Diagnosis is typically accomplished using multimodality imaging techniques including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound and MRCP. The use of diagnostic PTC and ERCP in CC has been largely replaced by MRCP. Appropriate management consists of prompt, complete cyst excision followed by restoration of biliary enteric continuity when necessary. Minimally invasive CC resection in the pediatric population has demonstrated acceptable outcomes. Prognosis is generally excellent; however, malignancy risk remains higher than the general population even after complete surgical excision.

Laparoscopic management of choledochal cysts: is a keyhole view missing the big picture?

In recent years, numerous articles have promoted laparoscopic surgical treatment of choledochal cysts in children. Most of these reports assert that laparoscopic excision and biliary reconstruction are as safe as open surgery and achieve equivalent or better results. However, these conclusions are based on retrospective analyses with median follow-up periods that rarely exceed 5 years. Closer scrutiny of the laparoscopic literature indicates that the optimum procedure for treating type I and most type IVa choledochal cysts, namely radical excision of the extrahepatic bile ducts and reconstruction by wide hilar hepaticoenterostomy, preferably hepaticojejunostomy, is not being carried out in most cases. Performing a less radical excision exposes patients to a greater long-term risk of a bilioenteric stricture and its complications and malignant change in residual extrahepatic bile ducts. Currently, the long-term outcomes of surgery for choledochal cysts are being eclipsed by the short-term gains of laparoscopic techniques. The prime objective in the surgical management of choledochal cysts is the long-term health of the patient; laparoscopic techniques are simply another method of performing the surgery and they should not become the standard of care unless long-term outcomes are similar to best practice open surgery.

Laparoscopic excision versus open excision for the treatment of choledochal cysts: a systematic review and meta-analysis

In 1723, Vater first described choledochal cyst and in 1977, Todani et al classified this disease. For many years, open excision (OP) as the standard procedure made a great impact in the treatment of choledochal cyst. Since 1995, when Farello et al first reported laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision, laparoscopic excision (LA) has been used worldwide. However, its safety remains a major concern. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare OP with LA in treating choledochal cyst and then to determine whether LA is safe and valid. The design of this study involved systematic review and meta-analysis. Data sources were Medline, Ovid, Elsevier, Google Scholar, Embase, and Cochrane library. The study selection entailed comparative cohort studies. For data extraction, 2 investigators independently assessed selected studies and extracted the following information: study characteristics, quality, outcomes data, etc. For the results, 7 comparative cohort studies about the effectiveness of LA compared with OP were performed meta-analysis. The results showed that although the LA group had a longer operative time (MD = 56.57; 95% CI = 32.20–80.93; P < 0.00001), LA had a shorter duration of hospital stay (MD = −1.93; 95% CI = −2.51 to −1.36; P < 0.00001), and recovery of bowel function (MD = −0.94; 95% CI = −1.33 to −0.55; P < 0.00001). Meta-analysis found no significant difference between most of the 2 groups: bile leak (RR = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.29–1.24; P = 0.17), abdominal bleeding (RR = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.01–8.98; P = 0.51), pancreatitis (RR = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.06–1.03; P = 0.06), total postoperative complications (RR = 1.04; 95% CI = 0.66–1.62; P = 0.88). The LA group had significant lower rates in intraoperative blood transfusion (RR = 0.20; 95% CI = 0.11–0.38; P < 0.00001), and adhesive intestinal obstruction (RR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.04–0.77; P = 0.02). In conclusion, compared with open excision, laparoscopic excision is a safe, valid, and feasible alternative to open excision.

Choledochal Cyst Disease in a Western Center: A 30-Year Experience

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to report a Western experience in the diagnosis and management of choledochal cyst disease.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven patients were identified including 15 children and 52 adults; 76.1 % were females. The median age at diagnosis was 3 [inter-quartile range (IQR) = 6.0-0.7] years for children, and 46 [IQR = 55.6-34.3] years for adults. Forty-eight patients (72 %) were symptomatic. Types of choledochal cyst included: I (n = 49, 73.1 %), II (n = 1, 1.5 %), IV (n = 9, 13.4 %), and V (n = 8, 12 %). The median diameter of the type I choledochal cyst was 35 [IQR = 47-25] mm. All 48 patients underwent excision of cyst with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy, and eight underwent resection with hepaticoduodenostomy. Six patients underwent liver resection, and five patients underwent orthotopic liver transplantation. Malignancy was concomitant in five adult patients, being identified on preoperative imaging in three cases; and atypia was seen in three additional patients. Early morbidity included Clavien-Dindo classification grades III (n = 7) and II (n = 5), while long-term complications consisted of Clavien-Dindo grades V (n = 5), IV (n = 2), III (n = 18), and II (n = 1).

CONCLUSIONS

Presentation and management of choledochal cyst is varied. Malignant transformation is often detected incidentally, and so should be the driving source for resection when a choledochal cyst is diagnosed.

Evaluation of the learning curve of laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy in children: CUSUM analysis of a single surgeon's experience

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is gaining popularity as a treatment for choledochal cyst (CDC) in children. However, the learning curve for this challenging laparoscopic procedure has not been addressed. The aim of this study is to determine the characteristics of the learning curve of this procedure. This may guide the training in institutions currently not using this technique.

METHODS

A prospectively collected database comprising all medical records of the first 104 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic CDC excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy performed by one surgeon was studied. Multifactorial linear/logistic regression analysis was performed to identify patient-, surgeon-, and procedure-related factors associated with operating times, rates of adverse event, and length of postoperative stay.

RESULTS

Cumulative sum analysis demonstrated a learning curve for laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision of 37 cases. Comparing the early with the late experiences (37 vs. 67 cases), the surgeon-specific outcomes significantly improved in terms of operating times (352 vs. 240 min; P < 0.001), postoperative complication rate (13.5 vs. 1.5 %; P = 0.02), and the length of hospital stay (9.4 vs. 7.8 days; P = 0.01). After multivariate analyses, independent predictors of operating times included the completion of the learning curve (CLC) (OR 0.68, 95 % CI 0.63-0.73) and adhesion score (OR_middle 1.25, 95 % CI 1.08-1.45; OR_high 1.40, 95 % CI 1.20-1.62; compared with the low score); significant predictors of perioperative adverse outcomes were CLC (OR 0.07, 95 % CI 0.02-0.34) and comorbidities prior to the surgery (OR 30.65, 95 % CI 1.71-549.63). The independent predictors of length of postoperative stay included CLC, preoperative comorbidities, and perioperative adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

CLC for laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision is 37 cases. After CLC, not only the operative time is reduced, the complications, adverse results, and the length of hospital stay all decreased significantly. The learning curve can be used as the basis for performance guiding the training.

Laparoscopic management of antenatally detected choledochal cyst: a 10-year review

BACKGROUND

The aim of this review was to study the characteristics and the outcome of children who underwent laparoscopic management of the antenatally detected choledochal cyst.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted for all children who underwent excision of antenatally detected choledochal cyst and hepaticojejunostomy from 2005 to 2015.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients (11 females and 3 males) were included in this study. The mean diameter of the cyst was 5.0 cm (range 2-12 cm). The mean age at operation was 3.5 months (range 11 days to 9 months). The mean body weight was 6.0 kg (range 3.9-10.0 kg). Five patients were symptomatic before operation. Laparoscopic excision of choledochal cyst was successful in all cases. The distal end of common bile duct (CBD) was cauterized in all but two cases. Conversion to open hepaticojejunostomy was required in two children. There was no intraoperative complication. Two patients had postoperative fever. One patient had minor bile leak that resolved on conservative management. The mean operative time was 286 min (range 200-390 min). The median hospital stay was 8 days (range 6-25 days). At a median follow-up of 46 months (range 6-118 months), all patients were freed from cholangitis or intestinal obstruction. Symptomatic patients had earlier operation (mean, 1.7 vs. 4.5 months p = 0.012) and were associated with postnatal increase in cyst size (p = 0.023) but were not associated with increased risk of complication or conversion (p = 1.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic excision of choledochal cyst and hepaticojejunostomy could be safety performed in patients with the cyst detected antenatally. The distal CBD was usually small and stenotic. Symptomatic patients had earlier operation with no increase in morbidity.

Laparoscopic Management of Choledochal Cyst-Technical Modifications and Outcome Analysis

BACKGROUND

Choledochal cyst (CDC) is a well described albeit rare clinical entity. Complete cyst excision with biliary-enteric reconstruction is the recommended treatment for Todani type I, II, and IVA cysts to prevent complications. The aim of this study is to evaluate outcomes of laparoscopic CDC excision from a tertiary care center.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 110 patients who underwent laparoscopic cyst excision and biliary-enteric reconstruction for CDC type I and IVA from 1998 to 2013.

RESULTS

Out of 110 patients, 55 were children (<16 years) and 55 were adults (>16 years) with mean age 21.19 ± 17.75 years and male:female ratio of 1:2.14. Abdominal pain was the most common presenting symptom (59.09 %). Surprisingly, 32.73 % of adults presented with incidentally detected cyst. Type I cyst was the most common (71.82 %) with mean size of 4.67 ± 1.59 cm. Blood loss (56.0 ± 16.62 vs. 76.55 ± 26.61 ml) and operative time (199.8 ± 44.66 vs. 251.6 ± 54.25 min) were significantly low in pediatric group. Three adults required conversion. Overall complication rate was 10 %. Re-exploration rate was 1.81 % with one patient died post-operatively. Mean hospital stay was significantly low in children (5.9 ± 1.39 vs. 7.0 ± 2.66 days). Median follow-up was 60 months (8-110). Cholangitis developed in six patients with three having anastomotic stricture requiring intervention.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic excision of CDC is safe and feasible. Surgery should be performed early as outcomes are better in pediatric age as compared to adults.

Comparison of Single-Incision and Conventional Laparoscopic Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Hepaticojejunostomy for Children with Choledochal Cysts

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the potential benefits of single-incision laparoscopic Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy comparing the conventional laparoscopic procedures. From January 2013 to July 2013, 17 consecutive children with choledochal cysts received single-incision laparoscopic Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomies by a single surgeon at our institution. Seventeen standard laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomies of consecutive children with choledochal cysts from July 2012 to December 2012 were employed as control. Demographic and perioperative information was identified retrospectively using clinic and hospital records including gender, age, total operating time, estimated blood loss, time to oral intake, drainage removal time, postoperative complications, and postoperative hospital stay. One patient was converted to open surgery and another 8-year-old boy conversed to conventional four-port laparoscopic procedure. There were no significant differences between the conventional laparoscopic group and the single-incision laparoscopic group with regard to preoperative variables including age (P = 0.697) and sex distribution (P = 1.000). For mean operative time (209.9 ± 7.5 vs 204.1 ± 6.9 min, P = 0.951), estimated blood loss (10.7 ± 1.1 vs 13.4 ± 1.7 ml, P = 0.103), time to oral intake (3.73 ± 0.21 vs 3.77 ± 0.20 days, P = 0.889), drainage removal time (4.20 ± 0.45 vs 4.06 ± 0.23 days, P = 0.067), and postoperative hospital stay (7.60 ± 0.25 vs 7.41 ± 0.21 days, P = 0.627), the differences were also nonsignificant. Nevertheless, this technique demonstrated improved cosmetic outcomes comparing with the conventional laparoscopic group. The results showed better cosmetic results and comparable postoperative outcomes. However, well-designed prospective studies are warranted to better address this issue.

Laparoscopic versus open surgery in children with choledochal cysts: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To compare the safety and efficacy between laparoscopic and open cyst excision with hepaticojejunostomy for children with choledochal cysts using meta-analysis.

METHODS

Studies comparing the laparoscopic and the open choledochal cyst excision that met the inclusion criteria for data extraction were identified from electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Science Citation Index, and the Cochrane Library) up to November 2014. The proceedings of relevant congress were also searched. The outcomes were operative time, intraoperative blood loss, time to food intake, postoperative morbidity and mortality, length of hospital stay. Outcomes were calculated as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using RevMan 5.2.

RESULTS

Seven retrospective studies were finally included, involving a total of 1016 patients, of whom, 408 cases underwent laparoscopic cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (LH) and 608 cases underwent open cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (OH). In LH group compared with OH group, the operative time was longer (MD = 59.11, 95% CI 27.61-90.61, P = 0.0002), while the length of postoperative hospital stay was less (MD = -2.01, 95% CI -2.49 to -1.54, P < 0.00001), the intraoperative blood loss was lower (MD = -37.14, 95% CI -66.69 to -7.60, P = 0.01) and time to food intake was less (MD = -1.14, 95% CI -1.61 to -0.67, P = 0.01). The rate of postoperative morbidity was more in the OH group, but there is no statistically significant difference between the two groups in postoperative morbidity (OR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.13-2.06, P = 0.35).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic surgery is a feasible, safe treatment of choledochal cyst with less postoperative morbidity, a shorter length of stay and a lower blood loss when compared with open approach. With the improvement of laparoscopic techniques and deftness of surgeons practice, laparoscopic surgery may become the first choice procedure for choledochal cyst.

Minimally invasive resection of choledochal cyst: a feasible and safe surgical option

BACKGROUND

The use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for choledochal cyst (CC) has not been well documented. We sought to define the overall utilization and outcomes associated with the use of the open versus MIS approach for CC. We examined the factors associated with receipt of MIS for CC, as well as characterized perioperative and long-term outcomes following open versus MIS for CC.

METHODS

Between 1972 and 2014, a total of 368 patients who underwent resection for CC were identified from an international, multicenter database. A 2:1 propensity score matching was used to create comparable cohorts of patients to assess the effect of MIS on short-term outcomes.

RESULTS

Three hundred thirty-two patients had an open procedure, whereas 36 patients underwent an MIS approach. Children were more likely to be treated with a MIS approach (children, 24.0 % vs. adults, 2.1 %; P<0.001). Conversely, patients who had any medical comorbidity were less likely to undergo MIS surgery (open, 26.2 % vs. MIS, 2.8 %; P=0.002). In the propensity-matched cohort, MIS resection was associated with decreased length of stay (open, 7 days vs. MIS, 5 days), lower estimated blood loss (open, 50 mL vs. MIS, 17.5 mL), and longer operative time (open, 237 min vs. MIS, 301 min) compared with open surgery (all P<0.05). The overall and degree of complication did not differ between the open (grades I-II, n=13; grades III-IV, n=15) versus MIS (grades I-II, n=5; grades III-IV, n=5) cohorts (P=0.85). Five-year overall survival was 98.6 % (open, 98.0 % vs. MIS, 100.0 %; P=0.45); no patient who underwent MIS developed a subsequent cholangiocarcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

MIS resection of CC was demonstrated to be a feasible and safe approach with acceptable short-term outcomes in the pediatric population. MIS for benign CC disease was associated with similar perioperative morbidity but a shorter length of stay and a lower blood loss when compared with open resection.

Hybrid laparoscopic-robotic management of type IVa choledochal cyst in the setting of prior Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: video case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Choledochal cysts are rare congenital disease of the biliary system. The recommended treatment of these lesions is surgical excision with biliary enteric reconstruction. In patients with normal anatomy, Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is preferred. However, different options in biliary reconstruction must be entertained in those with abnormal anatomy.

METHODS

Our patient is a 39-year-old female, who during workup for bariatric surgery two years prior to presentation, was found to have a 6 cm dilation of her common bile duct. She underwent a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) in 2011 at an outside facility, with no planned intervention on her biliary tree. Ultimately, she developed right upper quadrant pain two years following her RYGB. Upon further workup including right upper quadrant ultrasound, an extrahepatic choledochal cyst was confirmed and she was referred to our institution for definitive care.

RESULTS

The patient was taken to the operating room for resection of the choledochal cyst with hepatoenteric reconstruction. The dissection and resection of the cyst commenced laparoscopically. After performing a generous Kocher maneuver, we demonstrated that there was adequate mobilization of the duodenum to perform a tension free hepaticoduodenostomy, which was performed robotically. Her postoperative course was uneventful, and she was discharged home on postoperative day 3. At one month follow up, the patient was doing well with symptom resolution. Her final pathology revealed a choledochal cyst which was negative for dysplasia or carcinoma. Long-term follow up has been recommended with yearly alkaline phosphatase levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Here we present a video of the technical considerations during a robot-assisted laparoscopic biliary reconstruction in a patient with a prior Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with a type IVA choledochal cyst.

Immunoglobulin G4-associated cholangitis mimicking cholangiocarcinoma treated by laparoscopic choledochectomy with intracorporeal Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy

Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-associated disease is a recently recognized disease entity that is characterized by elevated serum IgG4 concentrations, abundant IgG4 lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, and dramatic steroid responses. IgG4-associated cholangitis is one manifestation of IgG4-associated disease. However, it is clinically challenging to make a preoperative differentiation between this rare disease and cholangiocarcinoma, especially for those with serum concentrations of IgG4 in the normal range. This article reports on a 57-year-old man with jaundice and upper abdominal discomfort. Imaging examination showed biliary stricture that closely resembled cholangiocarcinoma, and the patient’s serum IgG4 concentration was normal. The patient underwent a laparoscopic choledochectomy with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy using an intracorporeal hand-sewn technique. He recovered quickly without any complications. We also present our experience in laparoscopic intracorporeal hand-sewn hepaticojejunostomy.

Laparoscopic cyst excision and Roux-Y hepaticojejunostomy for children with choledochal cysts in China: a multicenter study

AIMS

Laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy (LH) for children with choledochal cyst (CDC) has become feasible and popular recently. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of LH for CDC in a large multicenter series.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Medical records of 956 consecutive patients who underwent LH for CDC at seven academic institutions from June 2001 to May 2012 were retrospectively analyzed. Ultrasonography, upper gastrointestinal contrast studies, and laboratory tests were performed during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

A total of 956 patients of CDC treated with LH were identified and included in this study. Of these patients, there were no significant differences in age, gender ratio, and the subtypes of CDC among the seven centers. The operative time of all patients decreased significantly as time went by. Interestingly, the centers that began to perform LH earlier, like cohort A, B, and C, took much more time in the initial cases than the later centers. The postoperative complications included 12 (1.3 %) intra-abdominal fluid collection, 6 (0.6 %) anastomotic stenosis, 14 (1.5 %) bile leak, 8 (0.8 %) Roux loop obstruction and 4 (0.4 %) gastrointestinal bleeding, and one case developed intrahepatic stone formation; two mortalities occurred; one died of hyperkalemia, and the other one died of postoperative bleeding. No other complication occurred during the mean follow-up of 5.7 years (ranged from 4 month to 11 years).

CONCLUSIONS

We reported a multi-institutional series of LH in children with CDC. Our findings suggested that LH represents a feasible treatment option for CDC by offering reliable middle and long-term outcome, low surgical morbidity.

Coagulopathy in a subtype of choledochal cyst and management strategy

AIM: To evaluated our management algorithm of the coagulopathy. We evaluated our management algorithm of the coagulopathy.

METHODS: Between October 2001 and January 2013, 160 CDC children with coagulopathy (fibrinogen, FIB < 2 g/L) were recruited. FIB ≥ 1 g/L is generally required for safe elective surgery. We used FIB level as an indicator when: (1) patients with FIB levels between 1-2 g/L underwent one-stage definitive operation; and (2) patients with FIB < 1 g/L underwent 3 d of medical treatment. Thereafter, those with FIB ≥ 1 g/L underwent one-stage definitive operation whereas those with FIB < 1 g/L underwent external biliary drainage to allow liver function improvement. Those patients with liver function improvements underwent definitive operation after 7 d of drainage.

RESULTS: After preoperative optimization, 92.5% of CDC children with coagulopathy underwent successful one-stage definitive operation. The remaining 7.5% of CDC children required initial external bile drainage, and underwent definitive operation 11 d after the admission. The mean operative time and postoperative recovery duration were comparable to those with normal coagulations. The median follow-up period was 57 mo. No blood transfusion or other postoperative complications were encountered.

CONCLUSION: Following our management protocol, the majority of CDC children with coagulopathy can be managed with one-stage definitive operation.

Mid-term Outcomes of Laparoscopic Versus Open Choledochal Cyst Excision in a Tertiary Paediatric Hospital

Introduction: Paediatric laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision has increasingly gained acceptance as an alternative to open excision. Laparoscopic excision is feasible and safe in the short term, but long-term outcomes are not as well established. KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital started performing laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision in children since 2007. In this paper, we report our experience with the laparoscopic approach, and the early and mid-term outcomes in comparison with the conventional open approach. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five consecutive cases by a single surgeon between May 2006 and April 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient characteristics and surgical outcomes were analysed. Results: There were 13 laparoscopic and 22 open cases. Baseline patient characteristics were similar. Operative time was longer in the laparoscopic group. Three cases in the laparoscopic group were converted to open in our early experience. There were no differences in time to feeds or length of hospitalisation. One laparoscopic case developed minor bile leak that resolved on conservative management. There were no complications in the laparoscopic group on median follow-up of 35 months. In the open group, there was 1 case of pancreatitis, cholangitis, and hypertrophic scarring respectively. There were 3 cases of suspected adhesive colic that resolved without surgery. Conclusion: Laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision enjoys excellent early and mid-term outcomes compared to open excision, even in centres with smaller patient volume. It should be the approach of choice where technical expertise is available. Key words: Hepaticojejunostomy, Minimally invasive, Postoperative outcomes