Peristomal varices after proctocolectomy in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis

Management of ectopic variceal bleeding with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt: a systematic review of case reports

Ectopic varices account for 5% of variceal bleedings and occur outside the gastro-esophageal region. This review evaluates the efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for ectopic variceal management. A comprehensive search through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase was conducted until January 16, 2023, using relevant keywords. Case reports and case series with fewer than 10 patients on TIPS for ectopic variceal management were included. The quality assessment followed the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for case reports. This systematic review evaluated 43 studies involving 50 patients with ectopic varices undergoing TIPS. Patients had a mean age of 54.3 years, half were female, and two were pregnant. Alcoholic liver disease (48%) and hepatitis C infection (26%) were common causes of portal hypertension. Ascites and splenomegaly were reported in 32% and 28% of the patients, respectively. Rectal, oral, and stomal variceal bleeding accounted for 62%, 16%, and 22% of the patients, respectively. Ectopic varices were mainly located in the duodenum (28%) and rectum (26%) regions. Complications affected 42% of the patients, re-bleeding in eleven and hepatic encephalopathy in seven. The follow-up lasted 12 months on average, and finally, 5 received a liver transplant. Mortality post-TIPS was 18%. Despite complications and a notable mortality rate, favorable outcomes were observed in almost half of the patients with ectopic variceal bleeding managed with TIPS. Further research is warranted to refine strategies and improve patient outcomes.

Diagnosis and management of ectopic varices in portal hypertension

Ectopic variceal bleeding is a rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding that can occur in settings of cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic portal hypertension and is characterised by its development at locations remote from the oesophagus and stomach. Ectopic varices can be difficult to identify and access, and, although a relatively uncommon cause of portal hypertensive bleeding, can represent a difficult diagnostic and therapeutic challenge associated with considerable mortality. Low incidence and variance in variceal anatomy preclude large randomised controlled trials, and clinical practice is based on experience from case reports, case series, and specialist centre expertise. Optimisation of survival outcomes relies on understanding a patient's portal venous anatomy and functional hepatic reserve to guide timely and targeted endoscopic and endovascular interventions to facilitate the rapid control of ectopic variceal bleeding.

Liver Transplantation for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) With or Without Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)-A European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT) Consensus Statement

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is the classical hepatobiliary manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and a lead indication for liver transplantation (LT) in the western world. In this article, we present a Consensus Statement on LT practice, developed by a dedicated Guidelines' Taskforce of the European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT). The overarching goal is to provide practical guidance on commonly debated topics, including indications and timing of LT, management of bile duct stenosis in patients on the transplant waiting list, technical aspects of transplantation, immunosuppressive strategies post-transplant, timing and extension of intestinal resection and futility criteria for re-transplantation.

EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on sclerosing cholangitis

Management of primary or secondary sclerosing cholangitis is challenging. These Clinical Practice Guidelines have been developed to provide practical guidance on debated topics including diagnostic methods, prognostic assessment, early detection of complications, optimal care pathways and therapeutic (pharmacological, endoscopic or surgical) options both in adults and children.

Embolization of parastomal and small bowel ectopic varices utilizing a transhepatic antegrade approach: A case series

Background

The ideal approach to managing parastomal and small bowel ectopic varices (EVs) is yet to be established.

Purpose

To evaluate outcomes following percutaneous antegrade transhepatic venous obliteration (PATVO) in patients presenting with bleeding from parastomal or small bowel EVs.

Material and Methods

A case series of 12 patients presenting with active or recurrent bleeding from parastomal or small bowel EVs who underwent 17 PATVO interventions at our tertiary care institution was performed. Data extraction from electronic medical records included baseline characteristics and procedural details. Endpoints included technical success, early clinical success, and re-bleeding.

Results

Technical success was 100% ( n = 17), and early clinical success was 82.3% ( n = 14). No patient experienced any intra- or post-operative complications. Rebleed rates after initial PATVO in patients who achieved early clinical success was as follows: 3-month, 0% ( n = 0); 6-month, 20% ( n = 2); 12-month, 20% ( n = 2). Rebleed rates after all PATVO procedures (including patients undergoing repeat procedures) that achieved early clinical success were as follows: 3-month, 0% ( n = 0); 6-month, 14% ( n = 2; 12-month, 14% ( n = 2). All patients with re-bleeding required reintervention with either PATVO, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or both.

Conclusion

PATVO can be safely performed to treat bleeding from parastomal and small bowel EVs. In patients who present with recurrent bleeding despite PATVO, TIPS with/without embolization of bleeding varices remains a valid option as described by the literature.

Diagnosis and classification of ileal pouch disorders: consensus guidelines from the International Ileal Pouch Consortium

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is an option for most patients with ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis who require colectomy. Although the construction of an ileal pouch substantially improves patients' health-related quality of life, the surgery is, directly or indirectly, associated with various structural, inflammatory, and functional adverse sequelae. Furthermore, the surgical procedure does not completely abolish the risk for neoplasia. Patients with ileal pouches often present with extraintestinal, systemic inflammatory conditions. The International Ileal Pouch Consortium was established to create this consensus document on the diagnosis and classification of ileal pouch disorders using available evidence and the panellists' expertise. In a given individual, the condition of the pouch can change over time. Therefore, close monitoring of the activity and progression of the disease is essential to make accurate modifications in the diagnosis and classification in a timely manner.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Outcomes After Ileal Pouch-anal Anastomosis in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Ulcerative Colitis

BACKGROUND

The optimal restorative surgical management of patients with concomitant diagnoses of primary sclerosing cholangitis and ulcerative colitis [PSC-UC] who require colectomy is controversial, given that patients may have an increased risk for pouchitis after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis [IPAA]. We aimed to compare rates of pouchitis and pouch failure among patients with and without PSC by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic search performed through August 18, 2020, identified 12 studies that compared the rates of pouchitis [n = 11] and/or pouch failure [n = 6] among patients with PSC-UC and UC alone. We then performed a meta-analysis using random effects modelling to estimate the odds of developing any episodes of pouchitis or pouch failure.

RESULTS

A total of 4108 patients underwent an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis after proctocolectomy for UC. Of these, 3799 [92%] were performed for UC alone and 309 [8%] were performed for PSC-UC. In a meta-analysis of 11 studies, patients with PSC-UC compared with UC alone were significantly more likely to develop any pouchitis (63% vs 30%, odds ratio [OR] 4.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.86-6.18), chronic pouchitis [47% vs 15%, OR 6.37, 95% CI 3.41-11.9], and pouch failure [10% vs 7%, OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.08-3.17].

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with PSC-UC were more likely to experience pouchitis and pouch failure than patients with UC alone. The risks of inflammatory complications after IPAA must be weighed against the potential complications with other surgical procedures, and future studies comparing outcomes among these procedures may inform decision making in this population.

RK, K. MRP. Review of Applied Anatomy, Hemodynamics, and Endovascular Management of Ectopic Varices

Portal hypertension leads to the opening up of collateral pathways to bypass the occlusion or resistance in the portal system. Ectopic varices are formed by such collaterals at many various sites along the gastrointestinal tract other than the usual location, that is, gastroesophageal region. Early diagnosis of ectopic varices needs strong clinical suspicion and contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan as endoscopy may often fail to pinpoint a source. In contrast to gastric varices where the understanding of the disease, as well as endovascular management, is widely studied and documented, the same is not true for ectopic varices due to low incidence. Understanding the applied anatomy and hemodynamic classification is important to decide the most suitable therapy. Interventional radiological procedures are aimed at either decompressing the varices or obliterating them and depend on the patency of the portal system, underlying etiology, and local expertise.

Targeting the Gut Microbiome as a Treatment for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A Conceptional Framework

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare, immune-mediated, chronic cholestatic liver disease associated with a unique phenotype of inflammatory bowel disease that frequently manifests as pancolitis with right-sided predominance. Available data suggest a bidirectional interplay of the gut-liver axis with critical roles for the gastrointestinal microbiome and circulating bile acids (BAs) in the pathophysiology of PSC. BAs shape the gut microbiome, whereas gut microbes have the potential to alter BAs, and there are emerging data that alterations of BAs and the microbiome are not simply a consequence but the cause of PSC. Clustering of PSC in families may suggest that PSC occurs in genetically susceptible individuals. After exposure to an environmental trigger (e.g., microbial byproducts or BAs), an aberrant or exaggerated cholangiocyte-induced immune cascade occurs, ultimately leading to bile duct damage and progressive fibrosis. The pathophysiology can be conceptualized as a triad of (1) gut dysbiosis, (2) altered BA metabolism, and (3) immune-mediated biliary injury. Immune activation seems to be central to the disease process, but immunosuppression does not improve clinical outcomes or alter the natural history of PSC. Currently, orthoptic liver transplantation is the only established life-saving treatment, whereas antimicrobial therapy or fecal transplantation is an emerging therapeutic option for PSC. The beneficial effects of these microbiome-based therapies are likely mediated by a shift of the gut microbiome with favorable effects on BA metabolism. In the future, personalized approaches will allow to better target the interdependence between microbiome, immune function, and BA metabolism and potentially cure patients with PSC.

Specific Features of Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic and progressive disease of the biliary tract. PSC is strongly associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), mainly with ulcerative colitis, and most PSC patients have underlying IBD. The pathophysiological interactions between IBD and PSC are unclear, although it seems that the patients with IBD and PSC have a distinct phenotype. IBD with coexisting PSC is more extensive and is characterized by milder activity compared to IBD alone. The coexistence of PSC increases the risk for colorectal cancer in IBD patients and lifelong annual surveillance colonoscopy is recommended. Also, liver transplantation (LT) for PSC may affect the course of IBD. In addition, the management of IBD after LT includes many specific problems. On the other hand, the effect of IBD on the natural history of PSC appears to be milder. However, IBD may increase the risk of postsurgical complications after LT and is a risk factor for recurrent PSC after LT. Overall, the coexistence of IBD with PSC changes the management, natural history and prognosis of both diseases.

Direct Percutaneous Embolization of Peristomal Ileostomy Varices in an Emergency Setting

Patients with liver disease and portal hypertension who have had surgical formation of an abdominal stoma are at risk of developing peristomal varices. These varices have a predilection for bleeding. Ideally, portal decompression via TIPS procedure is performed, with or without direct embolization of the bleeding varix. When TIPS is not an appropriate option due to significant liver disease and hepatic encephalopathy there are other approaches to treat peristomal variceal hemorrhage. We report the embolization of such a varix via direct percutaneous puncture under ultrasound guidance when portal decompression was not an appropriate option.

Interactions between primary sclerosing cholangitis and inflammatory bowel disease: implications in the adult liver transplant setting

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease which is associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in most cases. As there is currently no medical therapy which alters the natural history of PSC, liver transplantation may be required. Areas covered: We searched for articles in PubMed and critically reviewed current literature on the interrelationship between PSC and IBD with a specific focus on considerations for patients in the liver transplant setting. Expert commentary: PSC is an uncommon disease which limits available studies to be either retrospective or contain relatively small numbers of patients. Based on observations from these studies, the behavior and complications of PSC and IBD impact on each other both before and after a liver transplant. Both these autoimmune conditions and their associated cancer risk also influence patient selection for transplantation and may be impacted by immunosuppression use post-transplant. Hence, a complex interplay exists between PSC, IBD and liver transplantation which requires clarification with ongoing research.

Hepatic manifestations of inflammatory bowel diseases

Inflammatory bowel diseases are associated with various hepatobiliary disorders, reported both in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. They may occur at any moment in the natural course of the disease. The prevalence of liver dysfunction rises from 3% to 50% accordingly to definitions used in different studies. Fatty liver is considered as the most common hepatobiliary complication in inflammatory bowel diseases while primary sclerosing cholangitis is the most specific one. Less frequently, inflammatory bowel diseases-associated hepatobiliary disorders include: autoimmune hepatitis/ primary sclerosing cholangitis overlap syndrome, IgG4-associated cholangiopathy, primary biliary cholangitis, hepatic amyloidosis, granulomatous hepatitis, cholelithiasis, portal vein thrombosis and liver abscess. The spectrum of these manifestations varies according to the type of inflammatory bowel diseases. Treatments of inflammatory bowel diseases may cause liver toxicity, although incidence of serious complications remains low. However, early diagnosis of drug-induced liver injury is of major importance as it affects future clinical management. When facing abnormal liver tests, clinicians should undertake a full diagnostic work-up in order to determine whether the hepatic abnormalities are related to the inflammatory bowel diseases or not. Management of hepatic manifestations in inflammatory bowel diseases usually involves both hepatologists and gastroenterologists because of the complexity of some situations.

A case of liver cirrhosis with bleeding from stomal varices successfully treated using balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration

A 66-year-old male patient with liver cirrhosis because of alcohol intake underwent a Hartmann's procedure for rectal cancer. Four months later, bleeding from the sigmoid stoma occurred and persisted for 2 months. A colonoscopic examination revealed bleeding from stomal varices. Three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) imaging demonstrated the inferior mesenteric vein and left superficial epigastric vein as the feeding and drainage vessels, respectively. Balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (B-RTO) through the left epigastric vein was performed using a microballoon catheter inserted from the right femoral vein according to the Seldinger method. A CT examination performed 2 days after the B-RTO procedure revealed that the blood flow had disappeared, with thrombosis formation in both the stomal varices and the feeding vein. No recurrent bleeding from the stoma occurred. B-RTO using a microballoon catheter is useful as a therapeutic procedure for stomal varices to prevent bleeding, since the procedure can be performed with minimal invasion using the Seldinger method.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis associated with inflammatory bowel disease: an update

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic progressive disease, usually associated with underlying inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), with a prevalence of 60-80% in western countries. Herein, we review the current knowledge about the association between PSC and IBD in terms of clinical approach and long-term patient management. A PubMed search was conducted for English-language publications from 2000 through 2015 using the following keywords: primary sclerosing cholangitis, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, diagnosis, therapy, follow-up, and epidemiology. In terms of diagnosis, liver function tests and histology are currently used. The medical treatment options for PSC associated with IBD do not differ from the cases of PSC alone, and include ursodeoxycholic acid and immunosuppressive agents. These treatments do not seem to improve survival, even if ursodeoxycholic acid given at low doses may be chemopreventive against colorectal cancer (CRC). Liver transplantation is the only potential curative therapy for PSC with reported survival rates of 85 and 70% at 5 and 10 years after transplant; however, there is a risk for PSC recurrence, worsening of IBD activity, and de-novo IBD occurrence after liver transplantation. PSC-IBD represents an important public health concern, especially in view of the increased risk for malignancy, including CRC. Long-life annual surveillance colonoscopy is usually recommended, although the exact timescale is still unclear. Further studies are required both to clarify whether annual colonoscopy is cost-effective, especially in younger patients, and to identify potential pharmaceutical agents and genetic targets that may retard disease progression and protect against CRC.

ACG Clinical Guideline: Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic cholestatic liver disease that can shorten life and may require liver transplantation. The cause is unknown, although it is commonly associated with colitis. There is no approved or proven therapy, although ursodeoxycholic acid is used by many on an empiric basis. Complications including portal hypertension, fat-soluble vitamin deficiency, metabolic bone diseases, and development of cancers of the bile duct or colon can occur.

Reduction in portal venous pressure by transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for treatment of hemorrhagic stomal varices

OBJECTIVE

Stomal varices can cause life-threatening gastrointestinal hemorrhage in patients with portal hypertension. Optimal therapy is not well defined. The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation for the treatment of hemorrhagic stomal varices.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients who underwent TIPS creation for hemorrhagic stomal varices refractory to medical or endoscopic therapy over a 20-year period (1992-2012) were included. Ten patients (mean age, 63 ± 12 years) were identified. Retrospective chart review was used to document demographic characteristics, procedure details, technical and clinical success, complications, recurrent hemorrhage, and need for repeat interventions. Patients underwent follow-up for an average of 2 years (range, 22 days-9.6 years).

RESULTS

All patients had cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Average corrected sinusoidal pressures were 11 ± 2.4 mm Hg (range, 6-15 mm Hg) before TIPS placement and 4.3 ± 1.8 mm Hg (range, 2-8 mm Hg) after TIPS placement. Five patients (50%) underwent adjunctive embolization of stomal varices through the TIPS, which did not affect outcome. Complications included one patient each with a contrast allergy and renal failure. Six patients experienced complete resolution of bleeding without further intervention (60%). Four patients had recurrent stomal hemorrhage. Two of the four needed TIPS revision for occlusion; one underwent oversewing of the ostomy; and in one the hemorrhage resolved with conservative measures after confirmation of TIPS patency.

CONCLUSION

TIPS creation, with or without adjunctive variceal embolization, is a safe and effective treatment of refractory hemorrhagic stomal varices. Reintervention for recurrent bleeding may be required and appears effective.

Pathogenesis of primary sclerosing cholangitis and advances in diagnosis and management

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), first described in the mid-1850s, is a complex liver disease that is heterogeneous in its presentation. PSC is characterized by chronic cholestasis associated with chronic inflammation of the biliary epithelium, resulting in multifocal bile duct strictures that can affect the entire biliary tree. Chronic inflammation leads to fibrosis involving the hepatic parenchyma and biliary tree, which can lead to cirrhosis and malignancy. The etiology of PSC is not fully understood, which in part explains the lack of effective medical therapy for this condition. However, we have begun to better understand the molecular pathogenesis of PSC. The recognition of specific clinical subtypes and their pattern of progression could improve phenotypic and genotypic classification of the disease. We review our current understanding of this enigmatic disorder and discuss important topics for future studies.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis: diagnosis, prognosis, and management

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the liver of unclear etiology, characterized by chronic inflammation and fibrosis of bile ducts. It primarily affects middle-aged men and is associated with 4-fold increased mortality as compared with an age- and sex-matched population. Progressive biliary and hepatic damage results in portal hypertension and hepatic failure in a significant majority of patients over a 10- to 15-year period from the initial diagnosis. In addition, PSC confers a markedly increased risk of hepatobiliary cancer, including cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer, as compared with the general population, and cancer is the leading cause of mortality in patients with PSC. It is associated with inflammatory bowel disease in 70% of patients and increases the risk of colorectal cancer almost 10-fold. Despite significant research efforts in this field, the pathogenic mechanisms of PSC are still incompletely understood, although growing evidence supports the role of genetic and immunologic factors. There are no proven medical therapies that alter the natural course of the disease. Thus, liver transplantation is the only available treatment for patients with advanced PSC, with excellent outcomes in this population.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Cirrhotic Patients with Portal Hypertension

Gastrointestinal bleeding related to portal hypertension is a serious complication in patients with liver cirrhosis. Most patients bleed from esophageal or gastric varices, but bleeding from ectopic varices or portal hypertensive gastropathy is also possible. The management of acute bleeding has changed over the last years. Patients are managed with a combination of endoscopic and pharmacologic treatment. The endoscopic treatment of choice for esophageal variceal bleeding is variceal band ligation. Bleeding from gastric varices is treated by injection with cyanoacrylate. Treatment with vasoactive drugs as well as antibiotic treatment is started before or at the time point of endoscopy. The first-line treatment for primary prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleeding is nonselective beta blockers. Pharmacologic therapy is recommended for most patients; band ligation is an alternative in patients with contraindications for or intolerability of beta blockers. Treatment options for secondary prophylaxis include variceal band ligation, beta blockers, a combination of nitrates and beta blockers, and combination of band ligation and pharmacologic treatment. A clear superiority of one treatment over the other has not been shown. Bleeding from portal hypertensive gastropathy or ectopic varices is less common. Treatment options include beta blocker therapy, injection therapy, and interventional radiology.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Current and Future Management Strategies

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease. The etiology of this disorder is unknown and there are no effective medical therapies. PSC is associated with inflammatory bowel disease and an increased risk for hepatobiliary and colorectal malignancies. The aim of this review is to highlight the clinical features and diagnostic approach to patients with suspected PSC, characterize associated comorbidities, review screening strategies for PSC associated malignancies and review contemporary and future therapies.

Liver metastases, a rare cause of portal hypertension and stoma bleeding. Brief review of literature

INTRODUCTION

Portal hypertension is an unusual complication of liver metastases, which is frequently occurring in malignant disease. Portal hypertension may cause oesophageal varices and also stoma varices (colostomy and ileostomy). Oesophageal varices and bleeding from these varices have been frequently reported in literature. Stomal varices have also been reported in literature mostly associated with liver cirrhosis. These stomal varices lead to the massive bleeding causing morbidity and mortality. Portal hypertension is a pathological increase in portal pressure gradient (the difference between pressure in the portal and inferior vena cava veins). It is either due to an increase in portal blood flow or an increase in vascular resistance or combination of both. In liver cirrhosis, the primary factor leading to portal hypertension is increase in portal blood flow resistance and later on development of increased portal blood flow. It has been postulated that in liver metastasis the increase in portal flow resistance occurs at any site within portal venous system as a consequence of mechanical architectural disturbance.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We report a case of a 64 year old gentleman who developed portal hypertension due to secondary metastases from colorectal cancer. He subsequently developed bleeding varices in his end colostomy.

DISCUSSION

We believe that the combination of extensive metastases and chemotherapy induced portal hypertension in our patient.

CONCLUSION

Our case and other literature review highlight that the recurrent bleeding stoma associated with colorectal cancer should be investigated for portal hypertension.

Bleeding from peristomal varices: a complication of portal hypertension

Peristomal varices are a recognised complication of stomas in the presence of portal hypertension. There has been a progression of treatment options described in the literature, including the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). The use of TIPS, a percutaneous procedure allowing connection between the portal and systemic circulations within the liver, is a well-recognised method of treating the complications of portal hypertension. This report presents a case of peristomal varices successfully treated with TIPS and subsequently reviews the literature relating to its management.

Short- and long-term surgical outcomes in patients undergoing proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis in the setting of primary sclerosing cholangitis

BACKGROUND

Primary sclerosing cholangitis occurs in approximately 10% of patients with ulcerative colitis, but studies involving IPAA in patients with cholangitis have been reported in limited numbers.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine surgical outcomes in patients with ulcerative colitis and sclerosing cholangitis undergoing total proctocolectomy with IPAA and to identify variables associated with surgical complications.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a single tertiary referral institution.

PATIENTS

Included were all patients with cholangitis and ulcerative colitis who underwent proctocolectomy with IPAA from 1994 to 2005.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Perioperative morbidity, long-term pouch function, and pouch survival were the main outcome measures.

RESULTS

One hundred patients (62 male) were studied. Forty-three percent were on steroids. There was no perioperative mortality, and 51 30-day complications occurred in 39 patients (39%). Median follow-up time was 5.9 years (range, 0.14-16.2 y). Pouch failure occurred in 3 patients (3%). The single variable that predicted 30-day morbidity was previous abdominal surgery (P = .03). Prednisone use, body mass index, age, ASA score, preoperative Model for End Stage Liver Disease score, and year of surgery were not significantly associated with short-term complications.

CONCLUSIONS

IPAA can be performed safely in the setting of sclerosing cholangitis. The preoperative Model for End-stage Liver Disease Score and the use of preoperative immunosuppressive agents are not associated with an increased risk of complications. The likelihood of long-term pouch survival is excellent.

Systematic review: management options for primary sclerosing cholangitis and its variant forms - IgG4-associated cholangitis and overlap with autoimmune hepatitis

BACKGROUND

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) remains a challenging disease to manage. The main goals are prevention of disease progression and reduction of the increased cancer risk.

AIMS

To review the management strategies for PSC and its variant forms based on published studies.

METHODS

Publications were identified using Pubmed, Medline and Ovid search engines.

RESULTS

Distinguishing PSC from variants, such as IgG4-associated cholangitis, and overlap with autoimmune hepatitis is essential to guide treatment decisions. There is no proven efficacious medical treatment for PSC. Ursodeoxycholic acid has been disappointing in low and moderate doses, and potentially dangerous in higher doses, although its role and optimal dose in chemoprevention requires investigation. The novel bile acid, 24-norursodeoxycholic acid, has shown promise in mouse models; human trials are in progress. Dominant strictures are optimally managed by dilatation and stenting to relieve obstructive complications, although exclusion of biliary malignancy is essential. Liver transplantation is the only proven therapy for those with advanced disease. Cholangiocarcinoma remains the most unpredictable and feared complication. In highly selected groups, neo-adjuvant chemoradiation with liver transplantation seems promising, but requires further validation. Screening for inflammatory bowel disease and surveillance for colorectal carcinoma should not be overlooked.

CONCLUSIONS

The effective management of PSC and its variants is hindered by uncertainties regarding pathogenesis of disease and factors responsible for its progression. Genome studies may help to identify further targets for drug therapy and factors leading to malignant transformation.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis: overview and update

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disorder that most commonly affects middle-aged men. PSC is strongly associated with IBD, and in this setting the risk of colorectal cancer is markedly increased. Cholangiocarcinoma, and its devastating consequences, is another well-recognized complication of PSC. This condition tends to progress to end-stage liver disease, and patients with PSC have reduced survival rates compared with the general population. Despite significant research efforts in this field, the pathogenetic mechanisms of PSC are still incompletely understood, although growing evidence supports the role of genetic and immunologic factors. Effective medical therapy is lacking; liver transplantation is the only curative treatment modality, with excellent outcomes in this patient population.

Treatment options for primary sclerosing cholangitis

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a cholestatic liver disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of intra-/extrahepatic bile ducts, leading to multifocal strictures. Primary sclerosing cholangitis exhibits a progressive course resulting in cirrhosis and the need for liver transplantation over a median period of 12 years. The disease is frequently associated with inflammatory bowel disease and carries an increased risk of colorectal cancer and cholangiocarcinoma. Despite extensive research, there is currently no effective medical treatment. Multiple drugs are shown to be ineffective in halting disease progression, including ursodeoxycholic acid, the most widely evaluated drug. High-dose ursodeoxycholic acid (28-30 mg/kg/day) was recently shown to increase the adverse events rate. Endoscopic or radiological dilatation of a 'dominant' stricture may lead to symptomatic and biochemical improvement. However, liver transplantation is the only life-prolonging treatment for patients with end-stage disease. Studies with promising drugs, such as antibiotics, antifibrotic agents and bile acid derivatives, are eagerly awaited.

Embolization of bleeding stomal varices by direct percutaneous approach

Stomal varices can occur in patients with stoma in the presence of portal hypertension. Suture ligation, sclerotherapy, angiographic embolization, stoma revision, beta blockade, portosystemic shunt, and liver transplantation have been described as therapeutic options for bleeding stomal varices. We report the case of a 21-year-old patient with primary sclerosing cholangitis and colectomy with ileostomy for ulcerative colitis, where stomal variceal bleeding was successfully treated by direct percutaneous embolization. We consider percutaneous embolization to be an effective way of treating acute stomal bleeding in decompensated patients while awaiting decisions regarding shunt procedures or liver transplantation.

Bleeding stomal varices: a marker of chronic liver disease

A 44-year-old man presented with acute onset painless haemorrhage from his ileostomy. He had undergone panproctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis 17 years previously. Immediately following admission, he experienced further massive haemorrhage, developing hypovolaemic shock. Active resuscitation including suturing of a bleeding stomal varix was successful. An ultrasound scan of the liver was reported to be normal and the patient was discharged for further outpatient investigation. However he reattended 8 days later with further significant haemorrhage. Investigation with CT revealed portal hypertension and cirrhosis. The patient is currently awaiting a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure and transjugular biopsy to alleviate his portal hypertension and yield a tissue sample for histological diagnosis. The case highlights the need for clinicians to have a high index of suspicion when presented with bleeding stomas. Further investigation is warranted and may reveal significant underlying hepatic disease. Additionally, further procedures may be necessitated to prevent recurrence of haemorrhage.

Predictors for acute and chronic pouchitis following restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to evaluate the cumulative incidence, onset and risk predicting factors for acute and chronic pouchitis.

METHOD

A consecutive series of patients (n = 210), who underwent restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) and had a minimum follow-up of 12 months was reviewed. The cumulative incidence and onset of pouchitis was determined. Univariate analysis, followed by logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association of various demographic, clinical and histopathologic variables with the subsequent development of acute and chronic pouchitis.

RESULTS

A total of 198 patients were included. The mean follow-up was 64 months (range, 12-180). Sixty-four patients (32%) developed pouchitis, 35 acute and 29 chronic. The first episode of pouchitis occurred within the first year in 70% of cases. The presence of backwash ileitis (OR, 2.6; P = 0.015), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC; OR, 2; P = 0.018) and the duration of follow-up (OR, 1.1; P = 0.043) were associated with a higher incidence of pouchitis. The duration of follow-up was the only variable associated with acute pouchitis (P = 0.007). The presence of backwash ileitis and PSC were independent risk factors for chronic pouchitis (OR, 5.9; P < 0.001; OR, 2.8; P = 0.001 respectively).

CONCLUSION

Pouchitis is a heterogeneous disease which tends to occur early after restoration of gastrointestinal continuity. Patients with backwash ileitis and/or PSC are at considerable risk of developing chronic pouchitis. The strong association between backwash ileitis, PSC and chronic pouchitis suggests a common link in their pathogenesis.

Updates in the pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of ectopic varices

Ectopic varices (EcV) comprise large portosystemic venous collaterals located anywhere other than the gastro-oesophageal region. No large series or randomized-controlled trials address this subject, and therefore its management is based on available expertise and facilities, and may require a multidisciplinary team approach. EcV are common findings during endoscopy in portal hypertensive patients and their bleeding accounts for only 1–5% of all variceal bleeding. EcV develop secondary to portal hypertension (PHT), surgical procedures, anomalies in venous outflow, or abdominal vascular thrombosis and may be familial in origin. Bleeding EcV may present with anaemia, shock, haematemesis, melaena or haematochezia and should be considered in patients with PHT and gastrointestinal bleeding or anaemia of obscure origin. EcV may be discovered during panendoscopy, enteroscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, wireless capsule endoscopy, diagnostic angiography, multislice helical computed tomography, magnetic resonance angiography, colour Doppler-flow imaging, laparotomy, laparoscopy and occasionally during autopsy. Patients with suspected EcV bleeding need immediate assessment, resuscitation, haemodynamic stabilization and referral to specialist centres. Management of EcV involves medical, endoscopic, interventional radiological and surgical modalities depending on patients’ condition, site of varices, available expertise and patients’ subsequent management plan.

Severe complications of inflammatory bowel disease

Patients who have inflammatory bowel disease occasionally develop severe complications or emergency situations that require expert and expedited medical care, including toxic colitis, fistulas, abdominal abscesses, malignancy, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and pouchitis. Morbidity and mortality rates of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are increased over the expected rates in the unaffected population. Knowledge of the presenting features, natural history, and treatment of these complications should to lead to early and effective therapy and better outcomes.

Portal hypertension and variceal hemorrhage

Portal hypertension, a major hallmark of cirrhosis, is defined as a portal pressure gradient exceeding 5 mm Hg. In portal hypertension, porto-systemic collaterals decompress the portal circulation and give rise to varices. Successful management of portal hypertension and its complications requires knowledge of the underlying pathophysiology, the pertinent anatomy, and the natural history of the collateral circulation, particularly the gastroesophageal varices.

Bleeding stomal varices: case series and systematic review of the literature

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Bleeding stomal varices are a common problem in patients with surgical stomas and portal hypertension, and remain difficult to diagnose and manage.

METHODS

We identified all patients at our institution with bleeding stomal varices from 1989 to 2004. We surveyed all patients undergoing ileal pouch-anal anastomosis from 1997 to 2007 for bleeding anastomotic varices. Finally, we performed a systematic review of the literature focusing on diagnosis and treatment of bleeding stomal varices that included 74 English language studies of 234 patients.

RESULTS

We identified 8 patients with bleeding stomal varices. Recognition of stomal varices typically was delayed, particularly when failing to examine the ostomy without the appliance. Stomal variceal bleeding was confirmed by Doppler ultrasound or angiographic imaging. Simple local therapy usually stopped bleeding, albeit temporarily. Sclerotherapy was effective, but at the expense of unacceptable stomal damage. Decompressive therapy was required for secondary prophylaxis, including transjugular intravascular transhepatic shunts (2 patients), surgical portosystemic shunts (2 patients), and liver transplantation (1 patient). No patient with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis developed anastomotic bleeding from varices.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary prevention of bleeding stomal varices requires avoidance of creating enterocutaneous stomas in patients with portal hypertension. Careful inspection of the uncovered ostomy is essential for bleeding stomal varices diagnosis. Once identified, conservative measures will stop bleeding temporarily with definitive therapy required, including transjugular intravascular transhepatic shunts, surgical shunts, or liver transplantation.

Ectopic varices in colonic stoma: MDCT findings

Ectopic stomal varices are an unusual cause of gastrointestinal hemorrhage. The term "ectopic stomal varices" means abnormally dilated veins that have developed in the stomal mucosa. We describe the 2D reformatted and 3D volume rendered images by MDCT in a patient with an episode of acute bleeding from the colonic stoma. This case indicates that the 2D reformatted and 3D volume rendered images are useful to detect this rare complication of portal hypertension, and they help to tailor adequate treatment for the patients with bleeding from stomal varices.

Peristomal varices--life threatening or luminal?

Bleeding from the edge of an ileostomy site is a common problem. In those who have undergone a proctocolectomy with ileostomy formation in conjunction with a risk of chronic liver disease (even with normal liver function tests), this may be due to peristomal varices. If this is the case, significant, difficult-to-control and potentially life-threatening bleeding is likely in the future and may require transfusion. Improvements in radiological imaging techniques can give quick, sensitive and specific information to diagnose and guide management in this group. In those patients with major bleeding episodes, an initial conservative management policy should be adopted with the knowledge that, if bleeding persists, propanolol therapy, portosystemic shunt insertion or even liver transplantation may be indicated.