National trends in the management and survival of surgically managed gallbladder adenocarcinoma over 15 years: a population-based analysis

Treatment Outcomes of Incidental Gallbladder Cancer - Results from a High-Volume Tertiary Care Centre in North India

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a lethal disease. Incidentally detected gallbladder cancer (IGBC) presents a unique opportunity for early management and better outcomes. We present the institutional experience of a high-volume tertiary care center in northern India. Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was performed and data of all IGBC patients between January 2014 to December 2021 was analyzed. There were 125 patients of IGBC among the 750 patients of GBC seen during the study period. Of these 125 patients, 72 (57.6%) patients were not eligible for surgery. Successful completion radical cholecystectomy (CRC) was possible in 37 (69.8%) of the 53 patients who underwent surgery. On univariate analysis, thickness of gallbladder wall 10 mm or more (p < 0.001, OR 19.0, 95% CI 4.58-78.76), pathological stage (p < 0.001, OR 5.8, 95% CI 2.45-14.98) and median delay of 16 weeks or more (p < 0.001, OR 17.0, 95% CI = 4.08-70.76), were associated with inoperability. However, on multivariate analysis only gallbladder wall thickness of 10 mm or more (p < 0.001, AOR 17.9, 95% CI 3.24-98.78) and median delay of 16 weeks or more (p < 0.001, AOR 32.33, 95% CI 6.05-172.66) remained significant. Median time to recurrence (TTR) and overall survival (OS) was not reached after a median follow up of 30 months in patients undergoing successful CRC. Successful outcomes of IGBC are dependent on several factors. Diligent workup of suspicious thickening before simple cholecystectomy for gallstone disease and timely referral of IGBC to tertiary care are the keystones for good outcomes.

A Systemic Review and Meta-analysis of Laparoscopic Surgery Versus Open Surgery for Gallbladder Cancer

Introduction

Laparoscopy in gallbladder cancer (GBC) has a possible role in staging, radical cure, and palliation in gallbladder cancer. However, a few studies have advocated the use of laparoscopic approach and concluded the safety of this approach. This present study was undertaken to determine the safety and feasibility between open and laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with the non-metastatic GBC.

Materials and Methods

A systematic database search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar for relevant articles. As a result, a list of such studies, clinical trials, published in English up to May 2021, was obtained,14 studies were included and statistical analysis was conducted using RevMan software 5.3 (The Nordic Cochrane Centre).

Results

The 5-year survival rate was reported in 13 out of 14 studies (1388 patients), and all compared laparoscopic and open approach. There was no significant heterogeneity in between the studies (chi-square, 10.66; df, 12; I2, 0%). There was significant higher overall survival in open group (389/850 vs 194/538 or 1.45, 95% CI (1.12-1.88), P value, 0.005). There was no significant difference in recurrence rate, operative time, blood loss, lymph node yield, and postoperative complication in between open and laparoscopic groups.

Conclusions

Our present study demonstrates that overall survival is significantly increased with open approach when compared with laparoscopic approach. There is no difference in recurrence rate, operative time, blood loss, lymph node yield, and postoperative complications between the open and laparoscopic cholecystectomy groups.

Simple versus radical cholecystectomy and survival for pathologic stage T1B gallbladder cancer

BACKGROUND

Radical cholecystectomy is recommended for T1B and greater gallbladder cancer, however, there are conflicting reports on the utility of extended resection for T1B disease. Herein, we characterize outcomes following simple and radical cholecystectomy for pathologic stage T1B gallbladder cancer.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was queried for patients with pathologic T1B gallbladder cancer diagnosed from 2004 to 2018. Patients were stratified by surgical management. Overall survival (OS) was compared with Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox proportional hazards methods.

RESULTS

Altogether, 950 patients were identified with pathologic T1B gallbladder cancer: 187 (19.7 %) receiving simple and 763 (80.3 %) radical cholecystectomy. Median OS was 89.5 (95 % CI 62.5-137) and 91.4 (95 % CI 75.9-112) months for simple and radical cholecystectomy, respectively (log-rank p = 0.55). Receipt of simple cholecystectomy was not associated with greater hazard of mortality compared to radical cholecystectomy (HR 1.23, 95 % CI 0.95-1.59, p = 0.12).

DISCUSSION

In this analysis, we report comparable outcomes with simple cholecystectomy among patients with pathologic T1B gallbladder cancer. These findings suggest that highly selected patients, such as those with R0 resection and imaging at low risk for residual disease and/or nodal metastasis, may not benefit from extended resection; however, radical cholecystectomy remains standard of care until prospective validation can be achieved.

Potential Role of Surgical Resection for Gallbladder Cancer in Elderly Patients

INTRODUCTION

With the aging of the population in Japan, gallbladder cancer (GBC) in the elderly is increasing. However, the available clinical data are limited, and the optimal treatment is still controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefit of surgical resection in GBC patients ≥75 years of age.

METHODS

A retrospective single center analysis of patients who had undergone surgical resection for GBC between 2000 and 2019 was carried out. Patients aged ≥75 years (elderly group, n = 24) or <75 years (younger group, n = 50) were compared.

RESULTS

Both younger and elderly patients exhibited similar clinicopathological characteristics, but comorbidity in the latter was significantly greater, as was the frequency of less invasive surgery. Nonetheless, the incidence of postoperative complications was similar in elderly and younger patients. The proportion of patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy was lower in the elderly. Overall survival of elderly and younger patients was not significantly different (65.0 vs 62.4% at 5 years, P = .600). In multivariate analysis, residual tumor status but not age was an independent prognostic factor.

DISCUSSION

This study demonstrated that appropriate surgical treatment of elderly GBC patients was safe and effective, despite their having more comorbidities and lower rates of adjuvant chemotherapy than younger patients.

Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of Gallbladder: An Incidental Finding of Acute Cholecystitis With Cholelithiasis

The biliary tract's most frequent malignancy is gallbladder cancer (GBC). Due to the growing number of laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures, the majority of GBC cases in the United States are diagnosed as incidental findings. Roughly 5% of the reported cases of gallbladder adenocarcinomas are of the mucinous type. Mucinous adenocarcinoma tumors contain more than 50% of mucin materials and are clinically characterized by poor prognosis. Initial presentation can mimic acute cholecystitis or cholelithiasis; meanwhile, histological findings post-cholecystectomy are the main diagnostic criteria of mucinous adenocarcinoma of the gallbladder. This case presents a patient who has been diagnosed with cholelithiasis and cholecystitis and subsequently underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Histopathological examination of the gallbladder specimen was consistent with incidental gallbladder adenocarcinoma, the mucinous subtype to be specific.

Reappraisal of T1b gallbladder cancer (GBC): clinicopathologic analysis of 473 in situ and invasive GBCs and critical review of the literature highlights its rarity, and that it has a very good prognosis

There are highly conflicting data on relative frequency (2-32%), prognosis, and management of pT1b-gallbladder carcinoma (GBC), with 5-year survival ranging from > 90% in East/Chile where cholecystectomy is regarded as curative, versus < 50% in the West, with radical operations post-cholecystectomy being recommended by guidelines. A total of 473 in situ and invasive extensively sampled GBCs from the USA (n = 225) and Chile (n = 248) were re-evaluated histopathologically per Western invasiveness criteria. 349 had invasive carcinoma, and only 24 were pT1. Seven cases previously staged as pT1b were re-classified as pT2. There were 19 cases (5% of all invasive GBCs) qualified as pT1b and most pT1b carcinomas were minute (< 1mm). One patient with extensive pTis at margins (but pT1b focus away from the margins) died of GBC at 27 months, two died of other causes, and the remainder were alive without disease (median follow-up 69.9 months; 5-year disease-specific survival, 92%). In conclusion, careful pathologic analysis of well-sampled cases reveals that only 5% of invasive GBCs are pT1b, with a 5-year disease-specific survival of > 90%, similar to findings in the East. This supports the inclusion of pT1b in the "early GBC" category, as is typically done in high-incidence regions. Pathologic mis-staging of pT2 as pT1 is not uncommon. Cases should not be classified as pT1b unless extensive, preferably total, sampling of the gallbladder to rule out a subtle pT2 is performed. Critical appraisal of the literature reveals that the Western guidelines are based on either SEER or mis-interpretation of stage IB cases as "pT1b." Although the prognosis of pT1b-GBC is very good, additional surgery (radical cholecystectomy) may be indicated, and long-term surveillance of the biliary tract is warranted.

Robotic Hepatic Bisegmentectomy (s4b + s5) and Hilar Lymphadenectomy for Incidental Gallbladder Cancer Using Glissonian Approach

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder carcinoma is a rare cancer with a poor prognosis and the most common biliary tract malignancy. This video shows robotic treatment of a patient with incidental gallbladder cancer diagnosed after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The operation consisted of a robotic bisegmentectomy (liver segments 4b and 5) using a Glissonian approach and a hilar lymphadenectomy.

METHODS

A 73-year-old woman with no relevant history underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy at another hospital facility. The pathology revealed a gallbladder carcinoma. The patient was then referred for further treatment. Pathologic revision confirmed T2a carcinoma and staging was negative for distant metastases. The multidisciplinary team decided on a radical resection that will consist of a hilar lymphadenectomy and a frozen section of the cystic stump along the resection of segments 4b and 5. A robotic approach was proposed, and consent was obtained.

RESULTS

The operation time was 300 min and was performed 21 days after the cholecystectomy. Estimated blood loss was 120 mL with no transfusions required during or after the procedure. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the fourth postoperative day. The final pathology showed no residual disease in the liver specimen and no metastases among 16 removed lymph nodes.

CONCLUSIONS

The robotic approach is safe and feasible for radical treatment after incidentally discovered gallbladder cancer. The Glissonian approach is useful for anatomic resection of liver segments 4b and 5. This video can help oncologic surgeons to perform this challenging procedure.

FDG PET-MRI evaluation of synchronous gallbladder adenocarcinoma and POEMS syndrome

POEMS syndrome is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome associated with a plasma cell proliferative disorder. Gallbladder adenocarcinoma is a rare malignancy, with no association with POEMS syndrome. The plasma cell dyscrasia is routinely evaluated with advanced hybrid imaging to assess both anatomic and functional components. We present a case of a 59-year-old female with a known diagnosis of POEMS syndrome who underwent a whole-body restaging evaluation with hybrid positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MR) to restage her plasma cell dyscrasia. She also had a prior diagnosis of gallbladder adenocarcinoma. Our case focuses on the value of PET/MR in this scenario as well as a rare case of osseous metastasis from gallbladder carcinoma.

Gallbladder Cancer: A Single-Institution 10-Year Experience-Analysis of Adenocarcinoma Subtypes and Tumors Arising from Intracholecystic Papillary Neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder cancer accounts for 1.2% of global cancer diagnoses. Literature on biliary-type adenocarcinoma (BTA), and specifically carcinoma arising from intracholecystic papillary-tubular neoplasms (ICPNs), is limited. This study describes a retrospective, single-institution experience with gallbladder cancer, focusing on histological subtypes and prognosis.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent cholecystectomy for a malignant neoplasm of the gallbladder between 2007 and 2017. Demographic, clinicopathologic, and operative variables, as well as survival outcomes, were analyzed.

RESULTS

From a total of 145 patients, BTAs were most common (93, 64%). Compared with non-BTAs, BTAs were diagnosed at a lower American Joint Committee on Cancer stage (p = 0.045) and demonstrated longer median recurrence-free survival (38 vs. 16 months, p = 0.014; median follow-up 36 months). Tumors arising from ICPNs (18, 12%) were more commonly associated with BTA (14 cases). Compared with BTAs not associated with ICPNs (29 patients), associated cases demonstrated lower pathologic stage (p = 0.006) and lower rates of liver and perineural invasion (0% vs. 49% and 14% vs. 48%, respectively; p < 0.05). Cumulative 5-year survival probability was higher for patients with gallbladder neoplasm of any subtype associated with ICPNs compared with those that were not associated with ICPNs (54% vs. 41%, p = 0.019; median follow-up 23 months). This difference was also significant when comparing BTAs associated with ICPNs and non-associated cases (63% vs. 52%, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated unique pathological and prognostic features of BTAs and of carcinomas arising from ICPNs. Histopathological variance may implicate prognosis and may be used to better guide clinical decision making in the treatment of these patients.

Effect of lymphadenectomy on the prognosis for N0 gallbladder carcinoma patients: A study based on SEER database

Background

It remains unclear whether lymph node dissection is necessary for patients with N0 gallbladder carcinoma (GBC). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of lymphadenectomy on the prognosis for N0 GBC patients. The secondary objective was to establish a prognostic model of survival for N0 GBC patients being founded on the large samples.

Methods

Patient data were obtained from the database named SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database) between 2010 and 2014. Analyses of Kaplan–Meier survival and multivariate Cox regression were performed in subgroups based on regional lymph nodes removal (LNR) to calculate the excess risk of cause‐specific death. A prognosis nomogram was constructed build on the results of a multivariate analysis to predict the specific survival time (CSS) rates of N0 GBC patients.

Result

A total of 1406 N0 GBC patients were included in this research. The majority of N0 GBC patients undergoing cancer‐directed surgery did not undergo LNR (64.5%). The results showed that LNR can improve the survival of N0 GBC patients, including those at the T1a and T1b stages, and a wider range of lymph node dissection (LNR2) compared to LNR1 was more conducive to the prognosis. Furthermore, multivariate regression analysis showed that LNR was an independent favorable prognostic factor of N0 GBC. Finally, a nomogram was constructed to accurately predict the prognosis of N0 gallbladder cancer patients.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a significant survival benefit for extended lymph nodes removed in N0 GBC patients. These results recommend that an extended lymph node dissection strategy is needed for N0 GBC patients.

Outcome Following Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage (PTBD) in Carcinoma Gallbladder: a Prospective Observational Study

INTRODUCTION

Percutaneous biliary drainage (PTBD) is required as palliation and optimization for surgery or chemotherapy in carcinoma gallbladder (GBC) but may be associated with complications. We aimed to study the outcomes, complications, and changes in quality of life in patients with GBC undergoing PTBD.

METHODS

A prospective study from July 2018 to December 2019 in patients of GBC presenting with obstructive jaundice was done. Patients planned for PTBD were included in the study. The progression of the disease, complications of PTBD, reinterventions, effects on initiation or completion of chemotherapy, surgical resection or intervention, and overall survival were recorded. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire before and after 4-6 weeks of intervention.

RESULTS

Of 160 patients assessed for inclusion, 60 (mean age 53.7 ± 10.95 years, 27 (45%) males) were eventually included. Eleven patients (18.3%) had metastatic disease at presentation. Of 60 patients undergoing PTBD, none had immediate procedure-related complications, 41 (68%) patients had at least one, and 18 (30%) patients had more than one complication. The most common complication was peri-catheter bile leak (41.6%), followed by catheter dislodgement (30%), blockage (23.3%), and bleeding (10%). Reintervention was required in 32 (53%) patients. There was a significant decrease in QoL after PTBD (P < 0.0001). Median survival after PTBD was 12 weeks.

CONCLUSION

The high technical success of PTBD does not translate into the improvement of QoL.

Long Non-coding RNA FIRRE Acts as a miR-520a-3p Sponge to Promote Gallbladder Cancer Progression via Mediating YOD1 Expression

OBJECTIVES

The role of lncRNAs in gallbladder cancer (GBC) remains poorly understood. In this study, we explored the function of functional intergenic repeating RNA element (FIRRE) in GBC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Whole transcriptome resequencing was performed in three pairs of GBC tissues and adjacent non-tumor tissues. lncRNA FIRRE expression was verified by real-time PCR. The function of FIRRE in GBC was evaluated by experiments in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism of FIRRE was investigated via fluorescent in situ hybridization, RNA pull-down, dual luciferase reporter assays, and RNA immunoprecipitation.

RESULTS

FIRRE level was dramatically increased in GBC tissues compared to that in the adjacent non-tumor tissues. High expression of FIRRE was closely related to clinical stage and poor prognosis in GBC patients. Moreover, FIRRE remarkably enhanced proliferation and migration, and inhibited apoptosis of GBC cells. Mechanistically, FIRRE modulated YOD1 expression by sponging miR-520a-3p, thus contributing to the development of GBC.

CONCLUSION

Our data revealed that FIRRE might act as a novel mediator in GBC progression by sponging miR-520a-3p and regulating YOD1. FIRRE might be regarded as a potential diagnostic marker or target for GBC treatment.

Prognostic Nomograms to Predict Survival of Patients with Resectable Gallbladder Cancer: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Based Analysis

Background

Gallbladder adenocarcinoma (GBAC) is globally acknowledged as one of the most common malignancies among all gastrointestinal cancers. Despite prognosis of GBAC patients remains poor, patients with early-stage disease can be observed with long-term survival.

Material/Methods

In this study, 2556 patients with pathological GBAC between 2010 and 2015 were derived from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The prognostic nomograms containing all independent prognostic factors for predicting overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were constructed to achieve superior prognostic discriminatory ability.

Results

Based on the AJCC 7^th TNM staging system, we found the TNM substaging was not accurate enough to predict the survival and stratify the risk. Based on the results of univariate and multivariate analyses, a more precise prognostic nomogram was constructed containing all significant independent prognostic factors (age, grade, TNM stage, bone metastasis, and chemotherapy) for OS, while age, grade, TNM stage, bone metastasis and radiotherapy significant independent prognostic factors for CSS. The C-index of the constructed nomogram for predicting OS and CSS was 0.740 and 0.737 higher than that of TNM staging alone (0.667 for OS and 0.689 for CSS), respectively. In addition, the calibration curves and decision curve analysis further showed its robust power in survival prediction.

Conclusions

The constructed nomograms showed better discrimination abilities to predict OS and CSS rates at 1, 3, and 5 years. In the future, these constructed models for this disease will assist in risk stratification to guide GBAC treatment.

T2 gallbladder cancer shows substantial survival variation between continents and this is not due to histopathologic criteria or pathologic sampling differences

Published data on survival of T2 gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) from different countries show a wide range of 5-year survival rates from 30-> 70%. Recently, studies have demonstrated substantial variation between countries in terms of their approach to sampling gallbladders, and furthermore, that pathologists from different continents apply highly variable criteria in determining stage of invasion in this organ. These findings raised the question of whether these variations in pathologic evaluation could account for the vastly different survival rates of T2 GBC reported in the literature. In this study, survival of 316 GBCs from three countries (Chile n = 137, South Korea n = 105, USA n = 74), all adequately sampled (with a minimum of five tumor sections examined) and histopathologically verified as pT2 (after consensus examination by expert pathologists from three continents), was analyzed. Chilean patients had a significantly worse prognosis based on 5-year all-cause mortality (HR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.27-2.83, p = 0.002) and disease-specific mortality (HR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.51-3.84, p < 0.001), compared to their South Korean counterparts, even when controlled for age and sex. Comparing the USA to South Korea, the survival differences in all-cause mortality (HR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.12-2.75, p = 0.015) and disease-specific mortality (HR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.14-3.31, p = 0.015) were also pronounced. The 3-year disease-specific survival rates in South Korea, the USA, and Chile were 75%, 65%, and 55%, respectively, the 5-year disease-specific survival rates were 60%, 50%, and 50%, respectively, and the overall 5-year survival rates were 55%, 45%, and 35%, respectively. In conclusion, the survival of true T2 GBC in properly classified cases is neither as good nor as bad as previously documented in the literature and shows notable geographic differences even in well-sampled cases with consensus histopathologic criteria. Future studies should focus on other potential reasons including biologic, etiopathogenetic, management-related, populational, or healthcare practice-related factors that may influence the survival differences of T2 GBC in different regions.

The Evolving Role of Radiation Therapy in the Treatment of Biliary Tract Cancer

Biliary tract cancers (BTC) are a disease entity comprising diverse epithelial tumors, which are categorized according to their anatomical location as intrahepatic (iCCA), perihilar (pCCA), distal (dCCA) cholangiocarcinomas, and gallbladder carcinomas (GBC), with distinct epidemiology, biology, and prognosis. Complete surgical resection is the mainstay in operable BTC as it is the only potentially curative treatment option. Nevertheless, even after curative (R0) resection, the 5-year survival rate ranges between 20 and 40% and the disease free survival rates (DFS) is approximately 48–65% after one year and 23–35% after three years without adjuvant treatment. Improvements in adjuvant chemotherapy have improved the DFS, but the role of adjuvant radiotherapy is unclear. On the other hand, more than 50% of the patients present with unresectable disease at the time of diagnosis, which limits the prognosis to a few months without treatment. Herein, we review the role of radiotherapy in the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma in the curative and palliative setting.

Gallbladder Cancer Surgery in the United States: Lymphadenectomy Trends and Impact on Survival

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder cancer has a poor prognosis, and surgery is the only curative treatment. However, lymphadenectomy has been underperformed. We evaluate the trend of lymphadenectomy in the United States and its impact on survival.

METHODS

This is a cohort study of patients who underwent gallbladder cancer surgery between 2004 and 2016. Trend analysis of the rate of lymphadenectomy and the number of lymph nodes (LNs) removed were examined. The impact of lymph node status and different LN staging systems on survival was examined.

RESULTS

Of the 4577 patients identified, 69.9% were female, the mean age was 71.0 (±12.4), 87.2% had ≥ T2, and only 50.3% (n = 2302) received lymphadenectomy. Although the rate of lymphadenectomy and the number of LNs removed increased during the study period, both with P < 0.0001, the rate of patients who received examination of ≥6 LNs remained low, 13.6% in 2016. Adjusted regression analysis showed that patients without LN examination had worse overall survival than patients with LN positive disease, HR: 1.11 (95% CI: 1.01, 1.22). Concordance index analysis revealed that LN ratio (LNR) and Log odds of positive LN (LODDS) did not improve the ability of the American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC) staging in predicting 5-y survival rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Lack of LN examination is associated with worse survival than LN positive disease. Although the rate of LN examination and number of LNs retrieved have increased from 2004 to 2016, they remained low. LNR and LODDS staging systems added no benefit to AJCC staging ability in predicting a 5-y survival rate.

Lymph Node Ratio-Based Staging System for Gallbladder Cancer With Fewer Than Six Lymph Nodes Examined

Purpose

The 8th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) tumor-lymph node-metastasis (TNM) staging system for gallbladder cancer (GBC) recommended that at least six lymph nodes (LNs) should be examined. But most patients with GBC had fewer than six LNs resected. This study aimed to establish an alternative index for assessing the LN status during the staging system for GBC patients with fewer than six LNs retrieved.

Patients and Methods

Patient data was extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (cases between 2004 and 2013). X-tile software was used to determine the optimal cutoff value for lymph node ratio (LNR) and a concordance index (C-index) was used to evaluate the discriminatory powers of the two staging systems.

Results

The majority of GBC patients in our cohort (1353, 78.5%) had fewer than six LNs examined. Among patients with inadequate LN examination, the higher number of LNs examined correlated with a lower proportion of patients. Using the TNM staging system, the C-index for patients with fewer than six LNs and patients with six or more LNs screened were 0.636 and 0.704, respectively. Using the staging system based on LNR (TNrM), the C-index for patients with fewer than six LNs retrieved and patients with six or more LNs retrieved were 0.649 and 0.694, respectively. Similar results were observed in patients with gallbladder adenocarcinoma (GBA).

Conclusion

TNrM might be superior to the 8th AJCC TNM staging system for stratifying GBC patients with fewer than six LNs examined, and it can complement TNM for more accurate risk stratification. Future prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.

Adeno-squamous and squamous cell carcinoma of the gallbladder: The importance of histology in surgical management

BACKGROUND

Although gallbladder adenocarcinoma (AC) is potentially curable with resection, outcomes of squamous histologies are poorly described.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed all gallbladder cancers which underwent resection-for-cure in our health system from 2007 to 2017. We compared outcomes of AC to adeno-squamous (ASC)/squamous (SC) histologies.

RESULTS

91 patients met criteria; 76 AC, 15 ASC/SC. Compared to AC, ASC/SC tumors were larger (58 vs. 28 mm), with more frequent liver invasion (73% vs. 37%), pN+ (60% vs. 32%), higher stage (III/IV 73% vs. 52%), and displayed more LVI (60% vs. 36%), p < 0.05. For stage III/IV disease, provided R0 was achieved, survival was durable and similar for ASC/SC and AC (OS median 28mo ASC/SC vs. 25mo AC, p = 0.132; PFS median 21mo ASC/SC vs. 13mo AC, p = 0.206). Pure SC had considerably poorer median OS (<5mo) than ASC (23mo) and AC (28mo).

DISCUSSION

Squamous variants of gallbladder cancer confer aggressive and advanced disease and often require more radical resections to achieve R0. Durable survival is possible in ASC provided R0 is achieved. Pure SC has dismal survival even with R0 resection.

Effect of lymphadenectomy in curative gallbladder cancer treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Only a small fraction of resectable gallbladder cancer (GBC) patients receive a thorough lymphadenectomy. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effect of lymphadenectomy on survival in GBC surgery.

METHODS

On May 19, 2019, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for English or German articles published since 2002. Studies assessing the effect of lymphadenectomy on survival in GBC surgery were included. Fixed effect and random effects models were used to summarise the hazard ratio (HR).

RESULTS

Of the 530 identified articles, 18 observational studies (27,570 patients, 10 population-based, 8 cohort studies) were reviewed. In the meta-analysis, lymphadenectomy did not show a significant benefit for T1a tumours (n = 495; HR, 1.37; 95%CI, 0.65-2.86; P = 0.41). Lymphadenectomy showed a significant survival benefit in T1b (n = 1618; HR, 0.69; 95%CI, 0.50-0.94; P = 0.02) and T2 (n = 6204; HR, 0.68; 95%CI, 0.56-0.83; P < 0.01) tumours. Lymphadenectomy improved survival in the 2 studies assessing T3 tumours (n = 1961). A conclusive analysis was not possible for T4 tumours due to a low case load. Among patients undergoing lymphadenectomy, improved survival was observed in patients with a higher number of resected lymph nodes (HR, 0.57; 95%CI, 0.45-0.71; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Regional lymphadenectomy improves survival in T1b to T3 GBC. A minimum of 6 retrieved lymph nodes are necessary for adequate staging, indicating a thorough lymphadenectomy. Patients with T1a tumours should be evaluated for lymphadenectomy, especially if lymph node metastases are suspected.

Comparison of lymph node evaluation and yield among patients undergoing open and minimally invasive surgery for gallbladder adenocarcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Assessment of regional lymph nodes (LN) is essential for determining prognosis among patients with gallbladder cancer (GBC). The impact of surgical technique on LN yield has not been well explored. We investigated the impact of minimally invasive surgery (MIS; robotic or laparoscopic) on the evaluation and retrieval of regional LN for patients with GBC.

METHODS

We queried the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to identify patients with GBC who underwent curative-intent surgery between 2010 and 2015. Patients with metastatic disease or those with missing data on surgical resection or LN evaluation were excluded.

RESULTS

We identified 2014 patients who underwent an open (n = 1141, 56.6%) or MIS approach (n = 873, 43.4%) for GBC and met the inclusion criteria. Patients who underwent MIS were older (open: 68 years, IQR: 60, 75 vs. MIS: 70 years, IQR (61, 77); P = 0.02), and were more commonly treated at a comprehensive community cancer program (P < 0.001). Approximately 3 out of 4 patients (n = 1468, 72.9%) underwent an evaluation of regional LN, with nearly half of these patients (n = 607, 41.7%) having LN metastasis. Among patients who underwent a regional lymphadenectomy, average lymph node yield was 3 (IQR: 1, 6) and was similar between the two groups (P = 0.04). After controlling for all factors, operative approach was not associated with likelihood of receiving a lymphadenectomy during curative-intent resection (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.63-1.04; P = 0.11).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, patients undergoing curative-intent resection for GBC had similar rates of lymph node evaluation and yield regardless of operative approach. Over one-quarter of patients did not undergo a lymphadenectomy at the time of surgery. Further studies are needed to identify barriers to lymph node evaluation and yield among patients undergoing surgery for gallbladder cancer. Presented at the 2019 2nd World Congress of the International Laparoscopic Liver Society, Tokyo, Japan.

Disparities in Treatment for Gallbladder Carcinoma: Does Treatment Site Matter?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Current treatment guidelines for gallbladder cancer range from simple cholecystectomy to regional hepatic resection. Treatment patterns for radical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy vary. We aim to determine if there is any disparity in treatment or difference in survival between academic versus community treatment centers.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was queried from 2004 to 2014 for gallbladder carcinoma. Cases were stratified into treatment sites as "Community Cancer Center" (CCC) or "Academic Cancer Center" (ACC). Propensity score matching was performed for patient demographics, TNM stage, resection type, and administration of adjuvant chemotherapy. The primary outcome included 30-day mortality, 90-day mortality, and overall survival.

RESULTS

There are similar frequencies of radical versus simple resection and administration of adjuvant chemotherapy between ACC and CCC. When propensity-matched for resection type, cases treated at ACC have lower 30-day mortality (4.1% vs. 6.9%) and 90-day mortality (13.2% vs. 18.5%) and increased 5-year overall survival (26.2% vs. 22.4%) (p < 0.01). After propensity matching for adjuvant chemotherapy, cases at ACC have lower 30-day mortality (4.12% vs. 7.71%) and 90-day mortality (13.22% vs. 19.19%) and increased overall survival (13.6% vs. 11.0%) (p < 0.01).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

While treatment patterns for gallbladder cancer at ACC and CCC were similar, there was a decrease in 30-day and 90-day mortality and improved overall survival associated with patients treated at ACC. Treatment site may have an impact in the surgical outcomes of gallbladder cancer patients. This disparity warrants further research.

Surgical Indication for Advanced Gallbladder Cancer Considering the Optimal Preoperative Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9 Cutoff Value

BACKGROUND

Selecting patients who will benefit from resection among those with advanced gallbladder cancer (GBCa) having poor prognostic factors is difficult.

METHODS

One hundred twenty-one patients who underwent resection for stage II-IV GBCa and 19 unresected patients (unresectable group) were enrolled. The clinical impact of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) and advanced surgical procedures for GBCa was evaluated.

RESULTS

The optimal CA19-9 cutoff value (based on the greatest difference in overall survival) was 250 U/mL. CA19-9 ≥250 U/mL was found to be an independent prognostic factor. Patients with CA19-9 <250 U/mL who developed jaundice (median survival time [MST], 49.1 months) or who required major hepatectomy (MST, 21.5 months) or pancreatoduodenectomy (PD; MST, 50.3 months) had a better prognosis than those with CA19-9 ≥250 U/mL who developed jaundice (MST, 16.1 months; p = 0.061) or who required major hepatectomy (MST, 9.2 months; p = 0.066) or PD (MST, 8.6 months; p = 0.025); their prognosis was comparable to that of the unresectable group (jaundice: p = 0.145, major hepatectomy: p = 0.292, PD: p = 0.756).

CONCLUSIONS

Even if GBCa patients develop jaundice or require major hepatectomy, or combined PD, resection can be considered for those with CA19-9 <250 U/mL. However, surgical indication should be carefully determined in patients with CA19-9 ≥250 U/mL.

Survival benefits of simple versus extended cholecystectomy and lymphadenectomy for patients with T1b gallbladder cancer: An analysis of the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results database (2004 to 2013)

Although guidelines recommend extended surgical resection, radical resection and lymphadenectomy for patients with tumor stage (T)1b gallbladder cancer, these procedures are substantially underutilized. This population‐based, retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate treatment patterns and outcomes of 401 patients using the US Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2004 to 2013. Results showed that median overall survival (OS) was 69 months for lymphadenectomy patients and 37 months for those without lymphadenectomy. Lymphadenectomy also tended to prolong cancer‐specific survival (CSS), although the differences were not statistically significant. OS and CSS were similar for patients who received simple cholecystectomy and extended surgical resection. Cox proportional hazards regression models revealed survival advantages in patients with stage T1bN0 gallbladder cancer compared to those with stage T1bN1, and patients who received simple cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy compared to those who did not receive lymph node dissection. In further analyses, patients undergoing simple cholecystectomy who had five or more lymph nodes excised had better OS and CSS than those without lymph node dissection. In conclusion, survival advantages are shown for patients with T1b gallbladder cancer undergoing surgeries with lymphadenectomy. Future studies with longer follow‐up and control of potential confounders are highly warranted.

Laparoscopic surgery for early gallbladder carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is a controversy as to whether laparoscopic surgery leads to a poor prognosis compared to the open approach for early gallbladder carcinoma (GBC). We hypothesized that the laparoscopic approach is an alternative for early GBC.

AIM

To identify and evaluate the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of early GBC.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of online databases, including MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane libraries, and Web of Science, was performed to identify non-comparative studies reporting the outcomes of laparoscopic surgery and comparative studies involving laparoscopic surgery and open surgery in early GBC from January 2009 to October 2019. A fixed-effects meta-analysis was performed for 1- and 5-year overall survival and postoperative complications, while 3-year overall survival, operation time, blood loss, the number of lymph node dissected, and postoperative hospital stay were analyzed by random-effects models.

RESULTS

The review identified 7 comparative studies and 8 non-comparative studies. 1068 patients (laparoscopic surgery: 613; open surgery: 455) were included in the meta-analysis of 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival with no significant differences observed [(HR = 0.54; 95%CI: 0.29-1.00; I² = 0.0%; P = 0.051), (HR = 0.75; 95%CI: 0.34-1.65; I² = 60.7%; P = 0.474), (HR = 0.71; 95%CI: 0.47-1.08; I² = 49.6%; P = 0.107), respectively]. There were no significant differences in operation time [weighted mean difference (WMD) = 18.69; 95%CI: −19.98-57.36; I² = 81.4%; P = 0.343], intraoperative blood loss (WMD = −169.14; 95%CI: −377.86-39.57; I² = 89.5%; P = 0.112), the number of lymph nodes resected (WMD = 0.12; 95%CI: −2.95-3.18; I² = 73.4%; P = 0.940), and the complication rate (OR = 0.69; 95%CI: 0.30-1.58; I² = 0.0%; P = 0.377 ) between the two groups, while patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery had a reduced length of hospital stay (WMD = −5.09; 95%CI: −8.74- −1.45; I² = 91.0%; P= 0.006).

CONCLUSION

This systematic review and meta-analysis confirms that laparoscopic surgery is a safe and feasible alternative to open surgery with comparable survival and operation-related outcomes for early GBC.

Prognostic Impact of Lymph Node Excision in T1 and T2 Gallbladder Cancer: a Population-Based and Propensity Score-Matched SEER Analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of lymphadenectomy on survival in T1/T2 gallbladder cancer (GBC).

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, patients undergoing surgery for T1/T2 GBC from 2004 to 2014 were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. The effect of lymph node excision (LNE) on survival was assessed using Cox regression and propensity score methods.

RESULTS

A total of 2112 patients were identified: 11.4% had T1a, 18.5% T1b, and 70.1% had T2 tumors. Mean follow-up was 31.3 months. In 48.8% of patients, LNE was performed with a mean of 3.6 ± 4.3 nodes retrieved. Cancer-specific 5-year survival for T1 and T2 stages combined was 49.6% (95% confidence interval (CI), 45.9-53.6%) without LNE compared to 56.2% (95% CI, 52.4-60.4%) if LNE was performed (hazard ratio (HR), 0.75; 95%CI, 0.64-0.86, P < 0.001). Propensity score analyses for both stages combined confirmed this survival benefit with an HR of 0.67 (95% CI, 0.55-0.80) for the LNE group (P < 0.001). Stratified for tumor stages, LNE had no significant effect on cancer-specific survival in T1a (HR, 1.80 (95% CI, 0.76-4.26), P = 0.185) or T1b tumors (HR, 0.95 (95% CI, 0.57-1.58), P = 0.844), whereas it persistently revealed an advantage for patients with T2 tumors (HR 0.68 (95% CI, 0.55-0.83, P < 0.001). No correlation between the number of retrieved lymph nodes and the N+ rate was found (P = 0.134).

CONCLUSIONS

LNE is associated with improved survival in T2 GBC. No significant survival benefit was observed in T1a and T1b tumors. The retrieval of even a few lymph nodes reliably predicts the nodal status, which might assist in patient selection for re-resection in T1 GBC.

The appropriate surgical strategy for T1b gallbladder cancer incidentally diagnosed after a simple cholecystectomy

Backgrounds/Aims

The appropriate surgical treatment was investigated for T1b gallbladder (GB) cancer through a retrospective analysis of the clinical outcomes of patients with incidental T1 GB cancer.

Methods

Patients with T1 GB cancer who were incidentally diagnosed while undergoing a simple cholecystectomy at Chungnam University Hospital from January 2004 to December 2017 were enrolled. Overall, 39 patients with T1 GB cancer, 17 patients with T1a, and 22 patients with T1b were included. We retrospectively analyzed the patients' clinical and pathologic findings and follow-up results.

Results

Among the 6490 patients who underwent cholecystectomy during the study period, 165 patients were diagnosed with GB cancer (T1=42 [25.5%]). The risk factor associated with recurrence and cancer-related death in patients with T1 GB cancer was lymphovascular invasion (recurrence, p=0.028; death, p=0.004). In the T1b group, the 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate showed a statistical difference between patients with and without lymphovascular invasion (45.7% vs. 83.6%, p=0.048). There was no statistically significant difference in 5-year DFS and overall survival rate between simple cholecystectomy and extended cholecystectomy in T1b GB cancer with lymphovasular invasion (p=0.054 and p=0.091, respectively).

Conclusions

In incidental T1b GB cancer, extended cholecystectomy was not superior to simple cholecystectomy in terms of the 5-year DFS rate and nor in overall survival rate or recurrence rate, even when lymphovascular invasion was identified after simple cholecystectomy. Therefore, simple cholecystectomy may be recommended as a primary surgical strategy for T1b GB cancer.

Evolution of surgical management of gallbladder carcinoma and impact on outcome: results from two decades at a single-institution

BACKGROUND

The surgical approach to gallbladder cancer (GBCA) has evolved in recent years, but the impact on outcomes is unknown. This study describes differences in presentation, surgery, chemotherapy strategy, and survival for patients with GBCA over two decades at a tertiary referral center.

METHODS

A single-institution database was queried for patients with GBCA who underwent surgical evaluation and exploration and was studied retrospectively. Univariate logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between time and treatment. Univariate Cox proportional hazard regression assessed the association between year of diagnosis and survival.

RESULTS

From 1992 to 2015, 675 patients with GBCA were evaluated and 437 underwent exploration. Complete resection rates increased over time (p < 0.001). In those submitted to complete resection (n = 255, 58.4%), more recent years were associated with lower likelihood of bile duct resection and major hepatectomy but greater odds of neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy (p < 0.05). No significant association was found between year of diagnosis and OS or RFS (p > 0.05) for patients with complete resection.

CONCLUSION

Over the study period, GBCA treatment evolved to include fewer biliary and major hepatic resections with no apparent adverse impact on outcome. Further prospective trials, specifically limited to GBCA, are needed to determine the impact of adjuvant chemotherapy.

Staging gallbladder cancer with lymphadenectomy: the practical application of new AHPBA and AJCC guidelines

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines recommend harvesting a total lymph node count (TLNC) ≥6 from portal lymphadenectomy in ≥pT1b gallbladder cancers (GBC) for accurate staging and prognostication. This study aimed to determine nodal yields from portal lymphadenectomy and identify measures to maximize TLNC.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all ≥pT1b GBC which underwent resection with curative intent including portal lymphadenectomy at our specialized HPB center from 2007 to 2017. We compared outcomes of TLNC < 6 and TLNC ≥ 6 cohorts and determined factors predictive of TLNC.

RESULTS

Of 92 patients, 20% had a TLNC ≥ 6 (IQR 7-11) and 9% had no nodes found on pathology. Malignant lymphadenopathy was twice as common in TLNC ≥ 6 as TLNC < 6 (p = 0.003) most frequently from portal, cystic and pericholedochal stations. On logistic regression analysis, concomitant liver resection was an independent predictor of higher TLNC [4b/5 wedge resection (OR 0.166, CI 0.057-0.486, p = 0.001) extended hepatectomy (OR 0.065, CI 0.012-0.340, p = 0.001)]; biliary resection and en bloc adjacent organ resection were not.

CONCLUSION

At our center, prior to current guidelines, a TLNC≥6 was not met in 80% undergoing portal lymphadenectomy for ≥ pT1b GBC. To increase nodal yield, future guidelines should consider including additional lymph node stations and incorporation of frozen section analysis.

Evaluation and management of incidental gallbladder cancer

Given the ubiquity of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the modern era, the incidence of incidentally diagnosed gallbladder cancers (GBCs) is rising. This unique clinical scenario poses specific challenges regarding the role of staging, re-resection, and adjuvant treatment for patients with this disease. This review will address these controversies with the latest published data.

Management of incidental gallbladder cancer in a national cohort

Background

Incidental gallbladder cancer is a rare event, and its prognosis is largely affected by the tumour stage and treatment. The aim of this study was to analyse the management, treatment and survival of patients with incidental gallbladder cancer in a national cohort over a decade.

Methods

Patients were identified through the Swedish Registry of Gallstone Surgery (GallRiks). Data were cross-linked to the national registry for liver surgery (SweLiv) and the Cancer Registry. Medical records were collected if registry data were missing. Survival was measured as disease-specific survival. The study was divided into two intervals (2007–2011 and 2012–2016) to evaluate changes over time.

Results

In total, 249 patients were identified with incidental gallbladder cancer, of whom 92 (36·9 per cent) underwent re-resection with curative intent. For patients with pT2 and pT3 disease, median disease-specific survival improved after re-resection (12·4 versus 44·1 months for pT2, and 9·7 versus 23·0 months for pT3). Residual disease was present in 53 per cent of patients with pT2 tumours who underwent re-resection; these patients had a median disease-specific survival of 32·2 months, whereas the median was not reached in patients without residual disease. Median survival increased by 11 months for all patients between the early and late periods (P = 0·030).

Conclusion

Re-resection of pT2 and pT3 incidental gallbladder cancer was associated with improved survival, but survival was impaired when residual disease was present. A higher re-resection rate and more R0 resections in the later time period may have been associated with improved survival.

Gallbladder cancer - no improvement in survival over time in a Swedish population

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) has an extremely poor outcome. The aim of this study was to examine trends in GBC incidence, treatment and overall survival in a complete population of affected persons in a well-defined region in Sweden in 2000-2014.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Altogether 546 individuals with GBC were identified at Sweden's Regional Cancer Centre West. Subjects were grouped into three 5-year periods (Period A: 2000-2004, Period B: 2005-2009 and Period C: 2010-2014) and the survival, diagnosis, staging, grading and treatment for each period were investigated. Patients dead at date of diagnosis (n = 39) and patients with not invasive cancer (n = 25) were not included in the analysis.

RESULTS

The incidence was unchanged over the study period. The survival curves for the time periods were not significantly separated. Median survival was 4.7 months in Period A, 4.8 months in Period B and 6.1 months in Period C. Stage migration to more M1 in Periods B and C occurred and survival was improved for these cohorts. More individuals were diagnosed using only diagnostic imaging (p = .02). There were 177 curatively aiming operative procedures carried out on 482 persons (37%). The survival after surgery for the three periods improved over time (p = .02). Individuals who underwent a liver bed resection after a cholecystectomy had better survival than individuals who had cholecystectomy combined with liver resection. More persons were treated with chemotherapy, but no significant impact was found on survival in the total GBC population.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there were signs of improved diagnosis of GBC, the survival rate did not improve over time. There was a significant stage migration to more M1 in Periods B and C. Therapeutics able to downsize a cancer and increase the effectiveness of surgery with curative intent are warranted.

Clinicopathological characteristics and outcomes of rare histologic subtypes of gallbladder cancer over two decades: A population-based study

Background

There is limited literature about the clinicopathological characteristics and outcomes of rare histologic variants of gallbladder cancer (GBC).

Methods

Using SEER database, surgically managed GBC patients with microscopically confirmed adenocarcinoma, adenosquamous/squamous cell carcinoma and papillary carcinoma were identified from 1988 to 2009. Patients with second primary cancer and distant metastasis at presentation were excluded. The effect of clinicopathological variables on overall survival (OS) and disease specific survival (DSS) were analyzed using univariate and multivariate proportional hazards modeling. All associations were considered statistically significant at an alpha error of 0.01.

Results

Out of 4738 cases, 217 adenosquamous/squamous (4.6%), 367 papillary (7.7%), and 4154 adenocarcinomas (87.7%) were identified. Median age was 72 years. Higher tumor grade (grade 2, 3, 4 versus grade 1), higher T stage (T2, T3, T4 versus T1), lymph node positivity (N1 versus N0) and adenosquamous/squamous histology (versus adenocarcinoma) had worse OS and DSS (p < .001). Papillary GBC had better OS and DSS than adenocarcinoma (HR = 0.7; p < .001). Radical surgery (versus simple cholecystectomy) had better OS (HR = 0.83, p = 0.002) in multivariate analysis. OS rates at 3 and 5 years were 0.56 and 0.44 for papillary, 0.3 and 0.22 for adenocarcinoma, and 0.14 and 0.12 for adenosquamous/squamous histology, while DSS rates at 3 and 5 years were 0.67 and 0.61 for papillary, 0.38 and 0.31 for adenocarcinoma, and 0.17 and 0.16 for adenosquamous/squamous subtypes respectively.

Conclusion

Papillary GBC had better survival outcomes while adenosquamous/squamous GBC had worse survival outcomes compared to gallbladder adenocarcinoma.

Gallbladder cancer with tumor thrombus in the portal vein: A case report

RATIONALE

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a highly fatal malignancy. Due to its invasiveness and delayed diagnosis, many GBC patients are diagnosed with synchronous liver and hepatoduodenal ligament involvement. In our case, we report a gallbladder cancer with portal vein thrombus.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 60-year-old woman presented with persistent upper abdominal dull pain for 2 months.

DIAGNOSES

Ultrasound examination showed gallbladder carcinoma invading liver segment IV, and a tumor thrombus in the left and right main portal trunk. Ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed gallbladder carcinoma with invasion of adjacent liver, and tumor thrombus in the right branch of the portal vein and intrahepatic bile duct. Abdominal computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed no hepatic artery invasion.

INTERVENTIONS

We made a decision to perform extended right lobectomy. Twenty-six days later, the patient underwent intravenous infusion port implantation for S-1 plus oxaliplatin (SOX) therapy.

OUTCOMES

After treatment, the patient has been doing very well and no recurrence has been found for 5 months.

LESSONS

The patient with gallbladder cancer and tumor thrombus in the portal vein described in this report provides a reminder for surgeons of the importance of early diagnosis, and adequate surgical and adjuvant treatment. Multi-disciplinary treatment is significantly beneficial for the overall survival of patients with advanced GBC.

Immunotherapeutic Approaches to Biliary Cancer

OPINION STATEMENT

Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are rare aggressive neoplasms with a poor prognosis and a median survival of less than 1 year in the locally advanced or metastatic setting. Among the few patients who undergo curative resection the recurrence rates are high. About 90% of patients are detected at advanced stages, and systemic chemotherapy is the mainstay of their treatment. The treatment options for these patients are limited and multiple modalities of therapy from targeted therapy to immunotherapy and combination therapies (immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy) have been tested in this disease. Targeted therapies have failed to show a survival benefit. The deregulation of the immune system plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of BTCs. Therefore, immunotherapy, especially, immune checkpoint inhibitors hold great promise for this group of cancers. Numerous trials of immunotherapy in BTC are currently ongoing. In this review, we will discuss the available data and evidence for immunotherapy in BTC.

Updates on Gallbladder Cancer Management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

We will review the current standard of care management for metastatic gallbladder cancer (GBC), recommendations for resection of incidentally or non-incidentally diagnosed GBC, and developments in preoperative risk stratification and adjuvant chemotherapy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Gemcitabine-cisplatin is the standard of care therapy for advanced-stage disease. Patients with incidentally diagnosed GBC should undergo re-resection for T1b, T2, or T3 disease. The presence of residual disease is associated with decreased survival. Diagnostic laparoscopy should be used in select patients to avoid unnecessary laparotomy. Major hepatectomy and common bile duct excision should only be performed in select cases. Current standard of care for adjuvant therapy includes 6 months of oral capecitabine. Gallbladder cancer continues to carry high mortality rates due to its aggressive course and early spread. Recent developments in preoperative risk stratification, surgical resection, and chemotherapy have greatly shaped management of this malignancy in the current era.

The optimal surgical resection approach for T2 gallbladder carcinoma: evaluating the role of surgical extent according to the tumor location

Purpose

The clinical behavior of T2 gallbladder cancer varies among patients. The aims of this study were to identify prognostic factors for survival and recurrence, and to determine the optimal surgical strategy for T2 gallbladder cancer.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 78 patients with T2 gallbladder cancer who underwent surgical resection for gallbladder cancer.

Results

Twenty-eight patients (35.9%) underwent simple cholecystectomy and 50 (64.1%) underwent extended cholecystectomy. Among 56 patients without LN metastasis (n = 20) or unknown LN status (no LN dissection, n = 36), the 5-year disease-free survival rates were 81.6%, and 69.8% (P = 0.080). In an analysis according to tumor location, patients with tumors located on the hepatic side (n = 36) had a higher recurrence rate than patients with tumors located on the peritoneal side only (n = 35) (P = 0.043). On multivariate analysis, R1 resection and lymph node metastasis were significant, independent prognostic factors for poor disease-free and overall survival.

Conclusion

R0 resection and LN dissection are an appropriate curative surgical strategy in patients with T2 gallbladder cancer. Tumors located on the hepatic side show worse prognosis than tumors located on the peritoneal side only, hepatic resection should be considered.

The efficacy and safety of different pharmacological interventions for patients with advanced biliary tract cancer: A network meta-analysis

Biliary tract cancer (BTC) is the second common cancer in liver cancer. Chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatments for patients with advanced or metastatic disease, while fluorouracil (FU)-based and gemcitabine (GEM)-based treatments are most widely applied. This NMA aimed to figure out whether the addition of platinum (PLA) and target agents (TAR) can influence the efficacy and safety of standard chemotherapy. Network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted based on the records from PubMed, Embase and Cochrane. Eligible data was extracted from available qualified trials and outcomes. Software R 3.2.3 and STATA 13.0 were used to conduct the Bayesian NMA, calculating odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% credible interval (CrI) to evaluate different treatments.Almost all treatments were superior to best supportive care (BSC) and FU in terms of 1-OS, 2-OS and 1-PFS. GEM+PLA and GEM+PLA+TAR exhibited better efficacy than most treatments in 1-OS, 2-OS and 1-PFS, and yielded better results than BSC and GEM+FU in terms of 2-PFS. Most drug-containing treatments reported higher overall response rate (ORR) than BSC. GEM and GEM+FU were associated with a higher risk of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia compared to FU, FU+PLA and GEM+PLA. No statistical difference was detected in terms of nausea and vomiting.GEM+PLA and GEM+PLA+TAR were both efficacious and were associated with fewer adverse events. In conclusion, the addition of PLA can significantly improve the efficacy of FU and GEM-based treatments, and the addition of TAR to GEM+PLA can contribute to further improvement, but with a mild increase of adverse events.

Minimally invasive and open gallbladder cancer resections: 30- vs 90-day mortality

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery is increasingly used for gallbladder cancer resection. Postoperative mortality at 30 days is low, but 90-day mortality is underreported.

METHODS

Using National Cancer Database (1998-2012), all resection patients were included. Thirty- and 90-day mortality rates were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 36 067 patients were identified, 19 139 (53%) of whom underwent resection. Median age was 71 years and 70.7% were female. Ninety-day mortality following surgical resection was 2.3-fold higher than 30-mortality (17.1% vs 7.4%). There was a statistically significant increase in 30- and 90-day mortality with poorly differentiated tumors, presence of lymphovascular invasion, tumor stage, incomplete surgical resection and low-volume centers (P<0.001 for all). Even for the 1885 patients who underwent minimally invasive resection between 2010 and 2012, the 90-day mortality was 2.8-fold higher than the 30-day mortality (12.0% vs 4.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Ninety-day mortality following gallbladder cancer resection is significantly higher than 30-day mortality. Postoperative mortality is associated with tumor grade, lymphovascular invasion, tumor stage, type and completeness of surgical resection as well as type and volume of facility.

Limited Use of Adjuvant Therapy in Patients With Resected Gallbladder Cancer Despite a Strong Association With Survival

Background

There are no randomized data to guide clinicians treating patients with gallbladder cancer (GBC). Several retrospective studies reported the survival benefits of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) and chemoradiation (CRT). In this paper, we examine whether these publications have impacted the utilization of adjuvant therapies and whether their survival benefits are evident in a contemporary cohort of patients.

Methods

Using the National Cancer Data Base, we identified 5029 patients diagnosed with T1-3N0-1 GBC and treated with surgical resection from 2005 to 2013. We described trends in receipt of adjuvant treatments for three time periods (2005-2007, 2008-2010, 2011-2013) and calculated three-year overall survival (OS) probabilities for 2989 patients treated in 2005-2010. All statistical tests were two-sided.

Results

The percentage of patients who received no adjuvant treatments was unchanged from 2005 to 2013. Adjuvant RT decreased from 4.2% to 1.7% ( P  < .001), adjuvant chemotherapy increased from 8.3% to 13.8% ( P  < .001), and adjuvant CRT remained stable at 15.9% ( P  = .98). Adjuvant treatments were associated with improved three-year OS, with adjusted hazard ratio of 0.47 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.39 to 0.58) for CRT, 0.77 (95% CI = 0.61 to 0.97) for chemotherapy, and 0.63 (95% CI = 0.44 to 0.92) for RT. Adjuvant CRT was associated with improved survival in all categories, except T1N0, and in patients with negative and positive margins.

Conclusion

Over the past decade there was no increase in the utilization of adjuvant therapies in the United States for patients with resected GBC. Adjuvant therapy is associated with statistically significantly improved three-year OS. This analysis should form the basis for current clinical recommendations and support future prospective trials.

Surgical treatment for gallbladder cancer - a systematic literature review

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate existing evidence regarding surgical treatments for gallbladder cancer in a Health Technology Assessment. A specific aim was to evaluate whether extended surgery regarding liver, lymph nodes, bile duct, and adjacent organs compared with cholecystectomy alone in the adult patient with gallbladder cancer in early and late stages implies improved survival.

METHODS

In April 2015 and updated in June 2016, a systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Two authors independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles. The certainty of evidence was evaluated according to GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

Forty-four observational studies (non-randomised, controlled studies) and seven case series were included. Radical resection, including liver and lymph node resection, compared with cholecystectomy alone showed significantly better survival for patients with stages T1b and above. All studies had serious study limitations and the certainty of evidence was very low (GRADE ⊕○○○). A survival benefit seen in patients with stage T1b or higher with lymph node resection, was most evident in stage T2, but the certainty of evidence was low (GRADE ⊕⊕○○). It is uncertain whether routine bile duct resections improve overall survival in patients with gallbladder cancer stage T2-T4 (GRADE ⊕○○○).

CONCLUSION

Data indicate that prognosis can be improved if liver resection and lymph node resection is performed in patients with tumour stage T1b or higher. There is no evidence supporting resection of the bile duct or adjacent organs if it is not necessary in order to achieve radicality.

Rates and patterns of recurrence after curative intent resection for gallbladder cancer: a multi-institution analysis from the US Extra-hepatic Biliary Malignancy Consortium

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder cancer is a relatively rare malignancy. The current study aimed to define the incidence and patterns of recurrence following gallbladder cancer resection.

METHODS

Using a multi-institutional cohort we identified 217 patient undergoing curative intent surgery for gallbladder cancer. Patterns of recurrence were classified as locoregional and distant recurrence.

RESULTS

At last follow-up, 76 patients (35.0%) had experienced a recurrence (locoregional only, n = 12, 15.8%; distant only, n = 50, 65.8%; locoregional and distant, n = 14, 18.4%). Median time to recurrence was 9.5 months (IQR 4.7-17.6) and was not associated with recurrence site (all p > 0.05). On multivariable analysis, T3 disease (HR = 8.44, p = 0.014), lymphovascular invasion (HR = 4.24, p < 0.001) and residual disease (HR = 2.04, p = 0.042) were associated with an increased risk of recurrence. Patients who recurred demonstrated a worse 1-, 3- and 5-year OS (1-year OS: 91.3% vs. 68.6%, p = 0.001, 3-year OS: 79.3% vs. 28.7%, p < 0.001, and 5-year OS: 75.9% vs. 16.0%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for other risk factors, recurrence was independently associated with a decreased OS (HR = 3.71, p = 0.006). Of note, receipt of adjuvant therapy was associated with improved OS (HR = 0.56, p = 0.027) among those patients who developed a tumor recurrence.

DISCUSSION

Over one-third of patients experienced a recurrence after gallbladder cancer surgery. While chemotherapy did not decrease the rate of recurrence, patients who experienced recurrence after administration of adjuvant treatment faired better than patients who did not receive adjuvant therapy.

Does the Frequency of Cholecystectomy Affect the Ensuing Incidence of Gallbladder Cancer in Sweden? A Population-Based Study with a 16-Year Coverage

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is rare among the different gastrointestinal cancers with a significant global variation in incidence. High cholecystectomy rates on benign indications have been assumed to prevent the development of gallbladder cancer. The aim of the present study was to explore the relationship between the rate of cholecystectomy at different time periods and regions of the country and the annual incidence of GBC.

METHODS

Standardized cholecystectomy and GBC incidences for Swedish counties have been obtained from the Swedish national inpatient and National Cancer registries for the years 1998–2013. The incidences have been calculated for ages over 15 years and per 100,000 population. The relationships between cholecystectomy and GBC incidences have been analyzed using regression models. Correlation analyses were performed for the total cumulative incidence rates as well as the incidence rates calculated for the first and last 8 years of the entire study period.

RESULTS

Cholecystectomy rates ranged from 99 to 205 per 100,000 and year, and the GBC incidence from 2.3 to 5.1. Overall, we observed a slow but steady decline in cholecystectomy rates—as well as GBC incidences during the 16-year period. No significant correlation between the cholecystectomy rates and GBC incidences was seen.

CONCLUSIONS

This nationwide population-based study demonstrates substantial geographic differences in annual cholecystectomy rates without any significant inverse co-variation between cholecystectomy rates and the ensuing GBC incidence which would have supported the idea that frequent cholecystectomy affects the incidence of GBC.

Circulating MicroRNAs as Biomarkers in Biliary Tract Cancers

Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are a group of highly aggressive malignant tumors with a poor prognosis. The current diagnosis is based mainly on imaging and intraoperative exploration due to brush cytology havinga low sensitivity and the standard markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate 19-9 (CA19-9), not having enough sensitivity nor specificity to be used in a differential diagnosis and early stage detection. Thus, better non-invasive methods that can distinguish between normal and pathological tissue are needed. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules of ~20–22 nucleotides that regulate relevant physiological mechanisms and can also be involved in carcinogenesis. Recent studies have demonstrated that miRNAs are detectable in multiple body fluids, showing great stability, either free or trapped in circulating microvesicles, such as exosomes. miRNAs are ideal biomarkers that may be used in screening and prognosis in biliary tract cancers, aiding also in the clinical decisions at different stages of cancer treatment. This review highlights the progress in the analysis of circulating miRNAs in serum, plasma and bile as potential diagnostic and prognostic markers of BTCs.

Prognostic Implications of Lymph Node Status for Patients With Gallbladder Cancer: A Multi-Institutional Study

BACKGROUND

Although the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) classification is the most accepted lymph node (LN) staging system for gallbladder adenocarcinoma (GBA), other LN prognostic schemes have been proposed. This study sought to define the performance of the AJCC LN staging system relative to the number of metastatic LNs (NMLN), the log odds of metastatic LN (LODDS), and the LN ratio (LNR).

METHODS

Patients who underwent curative-intent resection for GBA between 2000 and 2015 were identified from a multi-institutional database. The prognostic performance of various LN staging systems was compared by Harrell's C and the Akaike information criterion (AIC).

RESULTS

Altogether, 214 patients with a median age of 66.7 years (interquartile range [IQR] 56.5-73.1) were identified. A total of 1334 LNs were retrieved, with a median of 4 (IQR 2-8) LNs per patient. Patients with LN metastasis had an increased risk of death (hazard ratio [HR] 1.87; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.24-2.82; P = 0.003) and recurrence (HR 2.28; 95 % CI 1.37-3.80; P = 0.002). In the entire cohort, LNR, analyzed as either a continuous scale (C-index, 0.603; AIC, 803.5) or a discrete scale (C-index, 0.609; AIC, 802.2), provided better prognostic discrimination. Among the patients with four or more LNs examined, LODDS (C-index, 0.621; AIC, 363.8) had the best performance versus LNR (C-index, 0.615; AIC, 368.7), AJCC LN staging system (C-index, 0.601; AIC, 373.4), and NMLN (C-index, 0.613; AIC, 369.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Both LODDS and LNR performed better than the AJCC LN staging system. Among the patients who had four or more LNs examined, LODDS performed better than LNR. Both LODDS and LNR should be incorporated into the AJCC LN staging system for GBA.