Management of choledochal cyst: 30 years of experience and results in a single center

[Choledochal cysts: surgical treatment in newborns and infants]

OBJECTIVE

To improve postoperative outcomes in newborns and infants with choledochal cysts and to determine the indications for surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 13 children aged 0-3 months with choledochal cyst who underwent reconstructive surgery between 2019 and 2023. In all children, choledochal cyst was associated with cholestasis. Acholic stool was observed in almost half of the group (n=7). All children underwent cyst resection and Roux-en-Y hepaticoenterostomy.

RESULTS

Symptoms of cholestasis regressed in all patients. Mean surgery time was 128±27 min. There were no complications. Enteral feeding was started after 1-2 postoperative days, abdominal drainage was removed after 6.2±1.6 days. Mean length of hospital-stay was 16±3.7 days. Adequate bile outflow is one of the main principles. For this purpose, anastomosis with intact tissues of hepatic duct should be as wide as possible. Roux-en-Y loop should be at least 40-60 cm to prevent postoperative cholangitis.

CONCLUSION

Drug-resistant cholestasis syndrome and complicated choledochal cysts (cyst rupture, bile peritonitis) are indications for surgical treatment in newborns and infants. When forming Roux-en-Y hepaticoenterostomy, surgeon should totally excise abnormal tissues of the biliary tract to prevent delayed malignant transformation.

Analysing Factors Prolonging Hospital Stay After Excision of Choledochal Cyst-A Pathway Towards Enhanced Recovery After Surgery

BACKGROUND

To evaluate factors affecting length of stay (LOS) after choledochal cyst resection in paediatric patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study on patients operated between 2004 and 2021. Associations between clinical factors and LOS were evaluated by bivariate analysis, multiple regression, and equivalence test.

RESULTS

Sixty-two patients were included. Twenty-four underwent hepaticoduodenostomy as biliary reconstruction. Five suffered from major complications. The median (25th-75th percentile) operation time was 279 (182-378) min. Median LOS, time to enteral feeding, and time to abdominal drain removal were 8(6-10), 2(1-3), and 5(4-7) days, respectively. Seven factors were found significantly associated with a shorter LOS in bivariate analysis and were included in multiple regression. It revealed that early abdominal drain removal (p < 0.001), early enteral feeding (p = 0.042), and the absence of major complications (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with shorter LOS. Equivalence test suggested that age and preoperative cholangitis had no practical effect on LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

Early enteral feeding, early drain removal, and avoidance of major complications are associated with a shorter LOS.

Total versus conventional robotic-assisted cyst excisions and hepaticojejunostomies in children with choledochal cysts: a case-control study

The current study's primary aim is to compare the safety and effectiveness between total and conventional robot-assisted cyst excisions and hepaticojejunostomies in children with choledochal cysts (CCs). Patients suffering from CCs treated with either total or conventional robot-assisted procedures (TRAS or CRAS) between December 2019 and February 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Data collected included the characteristics, operative and postoperative details. The risk factors for conversion of TRAS to CRAS were analyzed by logistic regression analysis. There were 50 patients who underwent TRAS and CRAS, respectively, and 19 patients were transferred to CRAS. The operation time in the TRAS group was significantly higher than that of the CRAS group, while the time to taking water and hospital stay were significantly shorter (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed in complications between the groups (p = 0.325). The risk factors for conversion of TRAS to CRAS were age ≥ 48 months, thickness of abdominal wall (TAW) ≥ 1.3 cm and upper abdominal length (UAL) ≥ 9.5 cm. Both TRAS and CRAS are safe and feasible. Performing TRAS is recommended for patients whose age ≥ 48 months, TAW ≥ 1.3 cm and UAL ≥ 9.5 cm, while for others, it is recommended to perform CRAS.

Potential application of inorganic nano-materials in modulation of macrophage function: Possible application in bone tissue engineering

Nanomaterials indicate unique physicochemical properties for drug delivery in osteogenesis. Benefiting from high surface area grades, high volume ratio, ease of functionalization by biological targeting moieties, and small size empower nanomaterials to pass through biological barriers for efficient targeting. Inorganic nanomaterials for bone regeneration include inorganic synthetic polymers, ceramic nanoparticles, metallic nanoparticles, and magnetic nanoparticles. These nanoparticles can effectively modulate macrophage polarization and function, as one of the leading players in osteogenesis. Bone healing procedures in close cooperation with the immune system. Inflammation is one of the leading triggers of the bone fracture healing barrier. Macrophages commence anti-inflammatory signaling along with revascularization in the damaged site to promote the formation of a soft callus, bone mineralization, and bone remodeling. In this review, we will discuss the role of macrophages in bone hemostasis and regeneration. Furthermore, we will summarize the influence of the various inorganic nanoparticles on macrophage polarization and function in the benefit of osteogenesis.

Management of complicated choledochal cyst in children: ultrasound-guided percutaneous external drainage and subsequent definitive operation

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the outcomes of the combination of ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous external drainage and subsequent definitive operation to manage complicated choledochal cyst in children.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 6 children with choledochal cyst who underwent initial US-guided percutaneous external drainage and subsequent cyst excision with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy between January 2021 and September 2022. Patient characteristics, laboratory findings, imaging data, treatment details, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean age at presentation was 2.7 ± 2.2 (0.5-6.2) years, and 2 patients (2/6) were boys. Four patients (4/6) had a giant choledochal cyst with the widest diameter of ≥ 10 cm and underwent US-guided percutaneous biliary drainage on admission or after conservative treatments. The other 2 patients (2/6) underwent US-guided percutaneous transhepatic cholangio-drainage and percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage due to coagulopathy, respectively. Five patients (5/6) recovered well after US-guided percutaneous external drainage and underwent the definitive operation, whereas 1 patient (1/6) had liver fibrosis confirmed by Fibroscan and ultimately underwent liver transplantation 2 months after external drainage. The mean time from US-guided percutaneous external drainage to the definitive operation was 12 ± 9 (3-21) days. The average length of hospital stay was 24 ± 9 (16-31) days. No related complications of US-guided percutaneous external drainage occurred during hospitalization. At 10.2 ± 6.8 (1.0-18.0) months follow-up, all patients had a normal liver function and US examination.

CONCLUSIONS

Our detailed analysis of this small cohort suggests that US-guided percutaneous external drainage is technically feasible for choledochal cyst with giant cysts or coagulopathy in children, which may provide suitable conditions for subsequent definitive operation with a good prognosis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Retrospectively registered.

Neonatal COVID-19 with Atypical Lung Cystic Lesions Mimicking Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation – A Diagnostic Dilemma

The COVID-19 epidemic is a major public health emergency that has affected every part of society worldwide, including neonates with different clinical presentations. It is essential to differentiate between increased incidence of complications related to this infection rather than an underlying congenital etiology. We report a rare case with atypical lung cystic lesions, diagnosed initially as congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) with management controversy but which turned out to be a COVID-19 viral pneumonia complication. Clinical tolerance and proper uses of radiological modalities are crucial to achieving better outcomes for patients. The literature is still missing reports on this topic and needs more studies to provide conclusive, evidence-based practice of this emerging neonatal viral infection. Vigilance in neonates with COVID-19 infection is highly recommended.

Lilly's Technique for Delayed Hemorrhage After Choledochal Cyst Radical Surgery

Background: Choledochal cysts (CCs) are characterized by dilations of the extra- and/or intrahepatic bile ducts. Surgery (cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy) remains the gold standard for treatment. However, delayed hemorrhage can occur postoperatively, and although rare, it can be life-threatening. This study aimed to determine the risk factors and corresponding prevention of delayed hemorrhage after radical CC surgery, and to apply a technique to lower its incidence. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 267 patients who received CC surgery between June 2016 and December 2020 at Shenzhen Children's Hospital. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for delayed hemorrhage. Results: Eleven (4.1%) patients had delayed hemorrhage after laparoscopic radical surgery. The most common hemorrhage site was the dissected surface between the cyst and adjacent structures with chronic severe adhesions, postoperatively. The occurrence of recurrent CC-associated complication and excessive total blood loss during surgery were risk factors for delayed hemorrhage after CC radical surgery. Length of disease course, operation when cholangitis/pancreatitis still existed, cyst diameter, and application of trypsin inhibitor after the surgery were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: For patients without adhesions, complete cyst resection is the gold standard. However, for those with intensive adhesions, in cases of delayed hemorrhage on the dissection surface and malignancy transformation risk, the Lilly's technique with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy could be an alternative.

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

PURPOSE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Usefulness of hepatobiliary scintigraphy for predicting late complications in patients with choledochal cysts

PURPOSE

Hepatobiliary scintigraphy is a minimally invasive imaging method that evaluates bile flow dynamics. At our hospital, it has been performed for postoperative evaluation of patients with choledochal cysts (CC). This study evaluated the usefulness of biliary scintigraphy for predicting late complications in patients with CCs.

METHODS

The study included pediatric patients with CC who underwent surgery at Chiba University Hospital from 1978 to 2020, followed by postoperative biliary scintigraphy and subsequent radiologic evaluation. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of "biliary cholestasis" on biliary scintigraphy.

RESULTS

The study included 108 patients, with a median age at surgery of 2 years and 11 months. The median follow-up period was 5203 days, with 11 hepatolithiasis cases and 8 cholangitis cases. No patients had cholangiocarcinoma. Twelve patients were considered to have "cholestasis" following biliary scintigraphy evaluation. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of hepatolithiasis between the cholestasis and non-cholestasis groups (p = 0.47), but cholangitis was significantly more common in the cholestasis group (p = 0.016).

CONCLUSION

Biliary cholestasis on postoperative hepatobiliary scintigraphy was a risk factor for cholangitis in patients with CCs. These particular patients should be monitored carefully.

Advances in the Treatment of Neonatal Biliary Disease

This article discusses current standard of care in neonatal biliary disease, particularly management of biliary atresia and choledochal cysts. It highlights surgical considerations, guidelines for adjuvant therapies, and promising therapeutic options that are under investigation.

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

Background:

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

Patients and Methods:

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

Results:

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

Conclusion:

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

The diagnostic value of hepatobiliary scintigraphy for choledochal cysts in the era of magnetic resonance imaging with cholangiopancreatography and contrast-enhanced hepatobiliary phase: a case report and review

Objective

Choledochal cysts (CCs) represent cystic dilatations of the intra- or extrahepatic biliary tract. The diagnosis of CCs may not always be straightforward particularly for the intrahepatic subtype. Whereas the gold standard for diagnosing CCs is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is commonly used as primary diagnostic tool for delineation of biliary pathologies including CCs.

Methods

We report a case of cystic hepatic lesion near the confluence of bilateral intrahepatic ducts. MRCP shows direct anatomical communication between the lesion and the biliary tract, raising suspicion of a CC. Endoscopic ultrasound shows no communication between the lesion and biliary system. 99mTc-hepatic iminodiacetic acid scintigraphy (hepatobiliary scintigraphy) was subsequently performed, showing no tracer uptake in the concerned cystic hepatic lesion despite visualisation of gallbladder and transit of tracer into the intestine. Overall scintigraphic findings speak against a CC.

Conclusion

The case showed conflicting anatomical findings of a CC on MRCP and endoscopic ultrasound. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy and hepatobiliary contrast MRI may both functionally demonstrate communication of a hepatic lesion with the biliary tract. But hepatobiliary scintigraphy offers the advantage of much higher hepatic extraction and hence higher resistance to competition from plasma bilirubin compared with hepatobiliary contrast MRI. The better pharmacokinetics of HIDA confer superior lesion contrast that may offset inferior image spatial resolution, in particular for large lesions and patients with hyperbilirubinaemia. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy should be considered a suitable functional diagnostic modality for CCs even in the era of magnetic resonance imaging with cholangiopancreatography and contrast-enhanced hepatobiliary phase.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Laparoscopic versus Open Pediatric Surgery: Three Decades of Comparative Studies

INTRODUCTION

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

MATERIALS AND METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Percutaneous Transhepatic Holmium Laser Lithotripsy for Giant Biliary Stones

This case report describes a young female patient with a history of surgery to treat choledochal cyst since childhood who was admitted to our hospital with cholangitis. An imaging examination revealed giant stones that almost completely filled the intrahepatic biliary tract. The patient underwent percutaneous transhepatic lithotripsy using a holmium laser. After the lithotripsy, cholangiography showed no residual stones. The patient displayed clinical improvement and was discharged after 14 days in the hospital. This case serves as a reminder of gallstone complications that can occur subsequent to choledochal cyst surgery with biliary-enteric anastomosis and emphasizes many outstanding advantages of percutaneous transhepatic lithotripsy compared with classical surgery.

A narrative review of the modern surgical management of pediatric choledochal cysts

Choledochal cysts (CC) ae rare congenital dilations of the biliary tract that harbor lifelong malignancy risk. CC are treated with surgical excision and bilioenteric reconstruction. In the modern era, the surgical approach to pediatric patients has enjoyed significant innovation with regards to minimally invasive techniques. In this review, we discuss these advances, including laparoscopic, single-incision laparoscopic, and robotic strategies, with a focus on the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing these procedures. By presenting an overview of the technical pearls emphasized by pioneers of these procedures, we examine the benefits and limitations of various minimally invasive techniques and analyze the utility and effectiveness of laparoscopy and robotics in comparison to each other and open techniques. Additionally, we highlight the importance of surgeon experience and skill in the management of this rare pediatric disease and explore the significance of the surgical learning curve in minimally invasive approaches in the excision of CC. We discuss the challenge of achieving surgical competency along this learning curve, and present proposed strategies to improve skill sets in the face of low case volumes. Finally, the relative dearth of data discussing long-term follow-up in these patients is discussed, and additional research regarding outcomes, malignancy risk and surveillance, and quality of life is necessary to better understand this disease and the implications of its surgical management.

Late postoperative complications of congenital biliary dilatation in pediatric patients: a single-center experience of managing complications for over 20 years

PURPOSE

To investigate late complications after surgery for congenital biliary dilatation (CBD).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the patients treated for late postoperative complications of extrahepatic bile duct resection with bilioenteric anastomosis for CBD at our hospital between 1999 and 2019.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven complications, including bile duct stenosis with (n = 19) or without (n = 3) hepatolithiasis, remnant intrapancreatic bile duct (n = 2), intestinal obstruction (n = 2), and refractory cholangitis (n = 1) were treated in 26 patients. The median age at radical surgery and the initial treatment of complications was 3 years, 2 months and 14 years, 5 months, respectively. The median period from radical surgery to initial treatment of complications was 7 years, 1 month. Before 2013, bile duct stenosis was initially treated with bile duct plasty (n = 11) or hepatectomy (n = 3), and 71.4% (n = 10) of patients needed further treatment; after 2013, double-balloon endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (DBERC) was used (n = 8), and 25% (n = 2) of patients needed further treatment. Patients with remnant intrapancreatic bile duct, intestinal obstruction, and refractory cholangitis required surgery.

CONCLUSION

Long-term follow-up is necessary after surgery for congenital biliary dilatation. DBERC is thus considered to be useful for bile duct stenosis management.

Arterio-Duodenal Fistula: A Rare Complication of Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision

Choledochal cysts (CDC) are rare biliary tract anomalies characterized by congenital dilatation of the extrahepatic and/or intrahepatic bile ducts. CDC excision with hepatico-enterostomy is the preferred surgery in modern era. Perioperative blood loss in a case of laparoscopic choledochal cyst excision (LCCE) is usually minimal and managed by conservative treatment such as blood transfusion and correction of coagulation factors. Massive hemorrhage in LCCE is rare and reported intraoperatively or within the first 3 postoperative days. Hereby, we present an unusual case of arterio-duodenal fistula, post LCCE presenting as delayed massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding in a male child and its successful endovascular management.

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

Objective

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

Methods

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

Results

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

Conclusions

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

Learning curve of robot-assisted choledochal cyst excision in pediatrics: report of 60 cases

BACKGROUND

Little data are available to assess the learning curve for robot-assisted surgery on choledochal cysts. The aim of this current study is to investigate the characteristics of the learning curve for robot-assisted choledochal cyst excisions using the da Vinci (SI) surgical system in pediatrics.

METHODS

A retrospectively collected database comprising all medical records of the first 60 consecutive patients undergoing a robot-assisted choledochal cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy using the da Vinci (SI) surgical system performed by one individual surgeon was studied. Baseline information and postoperative outcomes were collected and then learning curves were analyzed using the cumulative sum (CUSUM) method. Patients were divided into two groups including group A and group B according to the cutoff points of the learning curve. Intraoperative characteristics and short-term outcomes were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

CUSUM plots revealed that the cutoff point of the learning curve was 14 cases. Comparison of the operative time between the two groups revealed that the total operative time (203.71 ± 15.27, 171.28 ± 3.62 min, P < 0.001), docking time (23.79 ± 5.81, 14.50 ± 0.98 min, P < 0.001), and console time (151.86 ± 9.77, 129.15 ± 2.96 min, P < 0.001) were decreased significantly. The intraoperative bleeding (20.36 ± 7.46 vs. 20.43 ± 9.18, P = 0.977), time to taking water (2.89 ± 0.22 vs. 3.04 ± 0.34, P = 0.115), time to starting solids diet (3.73 ± 0.17 vs. 3.79 ± 0.26, P = 0.387), hospital stay (7.51 ± 1.12 vs. 7.54 ± 0.95, P = 0.910), and the postoperative complications did not differ significantly between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The learning curve for the robot-assisted choledochal cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy in children is 14 cases. This learning curve can be used as the basis for performance guidance during training in future.

Short-Term Complications After Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Radical Surgery: Prevention and Treatment

Background: Shenzhen Children's Hospital is one of the first hospitals in mainland China to conduct the laparoscopic choledochal cyst radical surgery. We aimed to analyze the short-term complications of treating choledochal cyst with laparoscopic surgery and to provide recommendations to reduce complications. Methods: A retrospective study was carried out from May 2010 to December 2017. The treatment process (preoperative preparation, surgical procedures, and treatment of the short-term complications), age at surgery, the length of surgery, and the length of stay were reviewed and analyzed. Results: A total of 325 cases were included in this study. Four cases (1.2%) were converted to laparotomy. Twenty-three cases (7.1%) exhibited the short-term complications, including bile leakage occurred in nine cases (2.8%), chylous ascites in one case (0.3%), pancreatic fistula in two cases (0.6%), intestinal necrosis in one case (0.3%), hemorrhage in four cases (1.2%), internal hernia in two cases (0.6%), and stoma necrosis in four cases (1.2%). Among patients younger than 3 months old, two cases (10.5%, P < 0.05) were converted to laparotomy, and four cases (21.1%, P < 0.05) exhibited complications. These patients also had a longer operative time (204.9 ± 10.8 min, P < 0.05) and hospital stay (12.2 ± 0.7 d, P < 0.001). Conclusion: In our study, the incidence of short-term complication after laparoscopic choledochal cyst radical surgery was relatively low. This procedure is a quite safe and effective for most patients, even for young children. However, patients younger than 3 months old may require extra attention during the treatment.

Choledochal cysts in children: How to Diagnose and Operate on

OBJECTIVE

To identify the best mode for diagnosing and treating the patients with choledochal cysts.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed with medical records of patients diagnosed with choledochal cysts from January 1994 to December 2017. In all cases, the diagnosis was based on ultrasound examination. All the patients underwent cyst resection and were divided in two groups: bile enteric anastomosis in the high portion of the common hepatic duct or in the dilated lower portion.

RESULTS

Eighty-one cases were studied. The age of presentation was 4 y 2 mo ± 4 y 1 mo, and the age for the surgical treatment was 5 y 5 mo ± 4 y 6 mo. In 61 cases, US was the only image examination performed. There were 67 cases of Todani type I (82.7%), 13 cases of type IV (16.0%) and one case of type III (1.2%). Nine patients (29.0%) in the first period and 2 patients (4.0%) in the second period presented with postoperative complications (p=0.016).

CONCLUSION

In patients with choledochal cysts, US is the only necessary diagnostic imaging. Performing the bile enteric anastomosis in the lower portion of the common hepatic duct is safer and has a lower risk of complications.

Choledochal cysts: Similarities and differences between Asian and Western countries

Choledochal cysts (CCs) are rare bile duct dilatations, intra-and/or extrahepatic, and have higher prevalence in the Asian population compared to Western populations. Most of the current literature on CC disease originates from Asia where these entities are most prevalent. They are thought to arise from an anomalous pancreaticobiliary junction, which are congenital anomalies between pancreatic and bile ducts. Some similarities in presentation between Eastern and Western patients exist such as female predominance, however, contemporary studies suggest that Asian patients may be more symptomatic on presentation. Even though CC disease presents with an increased malignant risk reported to be more than 10% after the second decade of life in Asian patients, this risk may be overstated in Western populations. Despite this difference in cancer risk, management guidelines for all patients with CC are based predominantly on observations reported from Asia where it is recommended that all CCs should be excised out of concern for the presence or development of biliary tract cancer.

Transitional care for patients with surgical pediatric hepatobiliary disease: Choledochal cysts and biliary atresia

Choledochal cysts (CDCs) and biliary atresia (BA) are rare pediatric hepatobiliary anomalies that require surgical intervention due to increased risk of malignancy and liver failure, respectively. The underlying disease and operative procedures place patients at risk for long-term complications, which may continue to affect them into adulthood. Lack of a transitional care model in the health-care system potentiates the challenges they will face following aging out of their pediatric providers' care. We sought to elucidate the long-term complications and challenges patients with CDCs and BA face, review the current literature regarding transitioning care, and propose guidelines aiding adult providers in continued care and surveillance of these patients. A literature review was performed to assess short-term and long-term complications after surgery and the current standards for transitioning care in patients with a history of CDCs and BA. While transitional programs exist for patients with other gastrointestinal diseases, there are few that focus on CDCs or BA. Generally, authors encourage medical record transmission from pediatric to adult providers, ensuring accuracy of information and compliance with treatment plans. Patients with CDCs are at risk for developing biliary malignancies, cholangitis, and anastomotic strictures after resection. Patients with BA develop progressive liver failure, necessitating transplantation. There are no consensus guidelines regarding timing of follow up for these patients. Based on the best available evidence, we propose a schema for long-term surveillance.

Long-term outcomes of surgery for choledochal cysts: a single-institution study focusing on follow-up and late complications

PURPOSE

The late postoperative complications of choledochal cyst (CC) surgery are serious and include intrahepatic stones and biliary carcinoma; therefore, long-term follow-up is crucial.

METHODS

The subjects of this retrospective study were patients who underwent surgery for CC at Kagoshima University Hospital between April, 1984 and December, 2016. We analyzed the operative results, early and late postoperative complications, and postoperative follow-up rate.

RESULTS

The study population comprised 110 CC patients (male/female: 33/77) with a median age at surgery of 4 years, 3 months (range 12 days-17 years). The patients underwent hepaticoduodenostomy (n = 1; 0.9%) or hepaticojejunostomy (n = 109; 99.1%). Late complications included intrahepatic bile duct (IHBD) dilatation (n = 1; 0.9%), IHBD stones (n = 3; 2.7%), and adhesive ileus (n = 4; 3.6%). There was no incidence of biliary carcinoma in this series. The rates of follow-up at our institute within 10 years of surgery and more than 20 years after surgery were 69.2% (18 of 26) and 14.5% (8 of 55), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The follow-up rate after definitive surgery declined with time. Late complications were observed within 20 years, but biliary carcinoma was not observed. The follow-up rate should be increased to detect late complications. Moreover, patient education on long-term follow up is essential to prevent life-threatening events after definitive surgery for CC.

Clinical significance of intrapancreatic choledochal cyst excision in surgical management of type I choledochal cyst

Objective To investigate the effectiveness of intrapancreatic choledochal cyst excision in treating type I choledochal cyst, and increase understanding of the need for thorough surgical management of the disease. Methods Primary and secondary (including multiple) surgical cases, treated between 2005 and 2015, were retrospectively analysed, and follow-up data of post-treatment effectiveness to date were reviewed. Differences in curative effects were compared between whole and partial excision of the choledochal cyst. Results Out of 350 cases, patients with whole excision of the choledochal cyst ( n = 272) experienced no associated symptoms in the long-term (3/272 [1.1%] experienced stomach ache or fever). Patients with partial resection of the choledochal cyst ( n = 78) developed associated symptoms, including new cyst, calculus of the bile duct (51/78 [65.4%]), and carcinogenesis (11/78 [14.1%]) in the residual intrapancreatic biliary duct. Post-treatment clinical manifestations were significantly different between patients with partial resection versus whole excision of the choledochal cyst ( P<0.05). Conclusion Surgical re-excision should be considered in patients with a residual intrapancreatic portion of the choledochal cyst due to prior incomplete surgery, regardless of clinical symptoms.

Minimally Invasive Hepatobiliary Surgery

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

Pediatric choledochal cysts: diagnosis and current management

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

Genetic study of congenital bile-duct dilatation identifies de novo and inherited variants in functionally related genes

Background

Congenital dilatation of the bile-duct (CDD) is a rare, mostly sporadic, disorder that results in bile retention with severe associated complications. CDD affects mainly Asians. To our knowledge, no genetic study has ever been conducted.

Methods

We aim to identify genetic risk factors by a “trio-based” exome-sequencing approach, whereby 31 CDD probands and their unaffected parents were exome-sequenced. Seven-hundred controls from the local population were used to detect gene-sets significantly enriched with rare variants in CDD patients.

Results

Twenty-one predicted damaging de novo variants (DNVs; 4 protein truncating and 17 missense) were identified in several evolutionarily constrained genes (p < 0.01). Six genes carrying DNVs were associated with human developmental disorders involving epithelial, connective or bone morphologies (PXDN, RTEL1, ANKRD11, MAP2K1, CYLD, ACAN) and four linked with cholangio- and hepatocellular carcinomas (PIK3CA, TLN1 CYLD, MAP2K1). Importantly, CDD patients have an excess of DNVs in cancer-related genes (p < 0.025). Thirteen genes were recurrently mutated at different sites, forming compound heterozygotes or functionally related complexes within patients.

Conclusions

Our data supports a strong genetic basis for CDD and show that CDD is not only genetically heterogeneous but also non-monogenic, requiring mutations in more than one genes for the disease to develop. The data is consistent with the rarity and sporadic presentation of CDD.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12920-016-0236-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

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

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

Laparoscopic Management of Choledochal Cyst-Technical Modifications and Outcome Analysis

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

What is the incidence of biliary carcinoma in choledochal cysts, when do they develop, and how should it affect management?

The incidence of cancer in choledochal cysts (CCs) in adults was calculated to determine the timing and need for surgery. In 78 publications (1996-2010), 434 of 5780 reported CCs patients had cancer. Cholangiocarcinoma (70.4 %) and gallbladder cancer (23.5 %) were the most common malignancies. Only nine malignancies were reported before age 18 (0.42 %). In contrast, the incidence of malignancy in adults was 11.4 %. The median age for diagnosis of cancer was 42 years, and the incidence increased with each decade.

[Laparoscopic operations for chronic duodenal obstruction in children]

Brief literature review devoted to chronic duodenal obstruction is presented in the article. We described an experience of treatment of 5 children with mechanical form of chronic duodenal obstruction. Duodenal stenosis was observed in 2 patients. Arteriomesenteric compression caused chronic duodenal obstruction in other children. Duodenal obstruction was cured using laparoscopy in all cases. Thus enteroalimentation has been started in early terms and intensive care unit stay and hospital stay was reduced.

Treatment and outcomes of adults with remnant intrapancreatic choledochal cysts

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to report our experience with the treatment of remnant intrapancreatic choledochal cysts (CCs) in adults.

METHODS

We reviewed retrospectively the records of patients with intrapancreatic remnant CCs who underwent reoperation by our surgical team from January 2000 to December 2012. Postoperative complications, surgical outcomes, and rate of malignancy were noted.

RESULTS

A total of 41 patients were included: 35 without malignant transformation after the primary operation and 6 with malignant transformation. After the primary operation, all patients experienced cholangitis, and more than one-half had cholangiolithiasis (66%), pancreatitis (51%), and vomiting (51%). The mean age of the 35 patients (9 males and 26 females) was 49 years (range, 27-69), and the majority had originally a Todani type I cyst (74%). Most patients (74%) had undergone previously subtotal extrahepatic cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticochojejunostomy. After excision of the remnant cyst, the rate of an excellent or good outcome was obtained in 91% of patients. The mean age of the patients with malignant transformation was 51 years (range, 35-70), and the rate of malignancy was 15% (6/41). The average time between the original incomplete CC excision and the diagnosis of malignancy was 140 months (range, 52-265). Four patients underwent pancreatoduodenectomy, and 2 underwent palliative surgery because the lesions were invading adjacent tissues. Five patients died of their disease within 37 months after reoperation.

CONCLUSION

Complications seem to be common after incomplete resection of a CC with remnant intrapancreatic CCs, and the malignancy rate is relatively high. To improve outcomes, all attempts at complete resection of the intrapancreatic portion of CCs should be made at the time of the primary operation.

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

OBJECTIVE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Retrospective assessment of the validity of robotic surgery in comparison to open surgery for pediatric choledochal cyst

PURPOSE

We evaluated the validity of robotic surgery (RS) for pediatric choledochal cyst (CC) in comparison to open surgery (OS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2009 to April 2013, clinical data from 79 consecutive pediatric patients with CC, who underwent RS (n=36) or OS (n=43) performed by a single pediatric surgeon, were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

In the RS group, the age of the patients was significantly older, compared to the OS group. Operation and anesthesia times were significantly longer in the RS group than the OS group. Fluid input rates to maintain the same urine output were significantly smaller in the RS group than the OS group. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status, length of postoperative hospital stay, and the incidence of surgical complications did not differ significantly between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Although early complications could not be avoided during the development of robotic surgical techniques, RS for pediatric CC showed results comparable to those for OS. We believe that RS may be a valid and alternative surgery for pediatric CC. After further development of robotic surgical systems and advancement of surgical techniques therewith, future prospective studies may reveal more positive results.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Selection of the surgical approach for reoperation of adult choledochal cysts

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Our purpose was to evaluate the reasons for reoperations and outcomes in patients with choledochal cysts (CCs).

METHODS

The records of patients with CCs who underwent reoperations from 1995 to 2012 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Of 165 patients with a mean age of 42.54 ± 14.05 years, 62 had Todani type I (37.6 %), 84 type IV-A (50.9 %), and 19 had unknown type CCs (11.5 %). Previous surgery was internal or external drainage alone in 66.1 % of patients with type I and 23.8 % of patients with type IV-A CCs. Partial cyst excision and Roux-en-Y cyst-jejunostomy or cyst excision and choledochoplasty by jejunal interposition were performed in 16.1 and 11.3 % of patients with type I and IV-A CCs, respectively. Reoperations at our hospital were maximal cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy. Radical cyst excision was achieved in 93.5 % of patients with type I and 44.0 % of patients with type IV-A CCs. With an average follow-up of 48.23 ± 12.30 months, recurrent cholangitis and biliary-enteric anastomotic stenosis occurred in 18 (13.2 %) and 9 patients (6.6 %), respectively. Long-term biliary function was excellent or good in 83.8 % of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Radical cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy provide good outcomes in patients with CCs.

Extrahepatic cyst excision and partial hepatectomy for Todani type IV-A cysts

BACKGROUND

Extrahepatic cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is not satisfactory in many patients with complex Todani type IV-A choledochal cysts.

AIMS

To report the results of combined extrahepatic cyst excision, partial hepatectomy, and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy for type IV-A choledochal cysts.

METHODS

The records of patients who received extrahepatic cyst excision, partial hepatectomy, and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy for type IV-A choledochal cysts from January 2002 to December 2011 were retrospectively reviewed, and surgical outcomes analysed.

RESULTS

59 patients (30.5% males; mean age, 43.2 ± 18.4 years) were included. Radical excision of cystically dilated bile ducts was achieved in 53 patients (89.8%). Bile leakage, delayed wound healing, and abdominal infection occurred in 5 (8.47%), 7 (11.86%), and 3 (5.08%) patients, respectively. Forty-nine patients (83.1%) were followed for an average of 42.6 ± 15.3 months. During the follow-up, 6 patients (12.2%) experienced recurrent cholangitis. Long-term biliary function was excellent in 33 (67.4%), good in 9 (18.4%), fair in 5 (10.2%), and poor in 2 (4.1%) patients.

CONCLUSION

Combined extra-hepatic cyst excision, partial hepatectomy, and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is effective for the treatment of complex Todani type IV-A choledochal cysts with substantial intrahepatic bile duct involvement and hilar bile duct stenosis.

Choledochal cyst in childhood: review of 30 cases

Objective: To analyze and discuss the clinical data, diagnosis and treatment of a number of patients with cystic dilatation of the common bile duct of a Brazilian pediatric hospital.Methods: We analyzed 30 patients treated at the Martagão Gesteira Institute of Pediatrics and Child Care of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro for 23 years ,with statistical analysis of epidemiological data, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and postoperative outcome.Results: We observed a marked female predominance (73.4% of cases), the diagnosis being made in the first decade of life in 90% of patients. The most prevalent clinical manifestation was jaundice (70% of cases) and the classic triad of choledochal cyst was not observed. Abdominal ultrasound was the first imaging examination performed, with a sensitivity of 56.6%, with diagnostic definition in 17 children. Two patients (6.6%) had prenatal diagnosis. All patients underwent surgical treatment, cyst resection with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy being performed in 80% of cases. The incidence of postoperative complications was 13.3% and the mortality rate was 6.6%, ie two patients were diagnosed with Caroli's disease.Conclusion: The non-observance of the classic triad of choledochal cyst suggests that its incidence is lower than that reported in the medical literature. The surgical treatment of choledochal cysts, with resection and bilioenteric anastomosis, is safe even for small children.

Relationship between Anomalous Pancreaticobiliary Ductal Union and Pathologic Inflammation of Bile Duct in Choledochal Cyst

PURPOSE

Choledochal cyst is a cystic dilatation of common bile duct. Although the etiology is presently uncertain, anomalous pancreaticobiliary ductal union (APBDU) is thought to be a major etiology of choledochal cyst. In this study, we analyzed the clinical and anatomical characteristics and pathologies of patients diagnosed with choledochal cyst in a single institute for 25 years.

METHODS

A total of 113 patients, diagnosed with choledochal cyst and who received an operation in Severance Children's Hospital from January 1988 to May 2013, were included. Medical records were reviewed, including clinical and demographic data, surgical procedures. Abdominal ultrasonography, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, and intraoperative cholangiography were used as diagnostic tools for evaluation and classification of choledochal cyst and the presence of anomalous pancreaticobiliary ductal union. Todani's classification, and relationship between APBDU and surgical pathology.

RESULTS

Among 113 patients, 77 patients (68.1%) presented symptoms such as hepatitis, pancreatitis and/or cholecystitis. Eighty three patients (73.5%) had APBDU, and 94 patients (83.2%) showed inflammatory pathologic changes. APBDU, pathologic inflammation, and serological abnormalities such as hepatitis or pancreatitis showed a statistically significant correlation to one another.

CONCLUSION

APBDU is thought to be one of the etiologic factors of choledochal cyst. It is related to the inflammatory changes in bile duct that can lead to the cystic dilatation.

Diagnosis and management of choledochal cyst: 20 years of single center experience

We report the first case series from Africa and the Middle East on choledochal cyst, a disease which shows significant geographical distribution with high incidence in the Asian population. In this study, the epidemiological data of the patients are presented and analyzed. Attention was paid to diagnostic imaging and its accuracy in the diagnosis and classification of choledochal cyst. Most cases of choledochal cyst disease have type I and IV-A cysts according to the Todani classification system, which support the etiological theories of choledochal cyst, especially Babbitt’s theory of the anomalous pancreaticobiliary duct junction, which are clearly stated. The difficulties and hazards of surgical management and methods used to avoid operative complications are clarified. Early and late postoperative complications are also included. This study should be followed by multicenter studies throughout Egypt to help assess the incidence of choledochal cysts in one of the largest populations in Africa and the Middle East.

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

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

Robot-assisted resection of choledochal cysts and hepaticojejunostomy in children

PURPOSE

Choledochal cysts have traditionally been treated as an open procedure. However, recent publications from some large volume centres show that minimally invasive surgery has become their standard approach. Robotic surgical systems facilitate a surgeon's ability to undertake complex procedures. We present our experience of using robot assistance to treat choledochal cysts.

METHODS

Children admitted with a choledochal cyst from March 2009 to Nov 2012 were included. There were 27 patients (20 females). Mean age 5.4 years (range 0.3-15.9). Mean weight 21.9 kg (range 5.9-78.8); 10 weighed <10 kg. The choledochal cysts were types 1c(12), 1f(10) and 4(5). The da vinci Surgical System was used for the robot-assisted resection of the choledochal cyst and hepaticojejunostomy. Roux loop was fashioned extra-corporeally. Mean follow-up is 2.7 years (range 0.9-4.7).

RESULTS

22 cases were completed successfully with robotic assistance. Five open conversions were for anatomical concerns or technical reasons. One child had three complications (omental hernia, anastomotic stricture and subsequent bile leak). Patients were on full feeds by a median of 5 days (range 3-6) and discharged after 6 days (range 4-7).

CONCLUSION

Robotic-assisted resection of choledochal cysts in children is safe. They made a rapid recovery with a good cosmetic outcome.

Surgical treatment of type IV-A choledochal cyst in a single institution: children vs. adults

BACKGROUND

The treatment of type IV-A choledochal cyst is particularly difficult and remains a challenge because of the rareness and the various presentations of the disease involving not only the extrahepatic but also the intrahepatic biliary tract. The purpose of this study is to analyze our clinical experience for surgical treatment of type IV-A choledochal cyst, and compare between children and adults.

METHODS

During a 10-year period of time (2000-2010), clinical data of 81 consecutive patients with type IV-A choledochal cyst were retrospectively analyzed. We divided these patients into two groups, the child group (age ≤ 18 years) and the adult group (age >18 years). According to whether the patient received additional liver resection, patients were divided into a extrahepatic cystectomy (EHC) group and an additional liver resection (LR) group. The long-term outcomes after surgery were evaluated in two groups.

RESULTS

Of all 81 patients, there were 17 children and 64 adults; 16 children and 35 adults belonged to EHC group, one child and 29 adults belonged to LR group. The morbidity of biliary stricture and/or lithiasis in the adults was significantly higher than that in the children (p = 0.041 < 0.05). In the EHC group, the reoperation rate of adults was significantly higher than that of children (p = 0.019 < 0.05). For adult patients, the morbidity of biliary stricture and/or lithiasis and the reoperation rate in EHC group was significantly higher than that in LR group (p = 0.037 < 0.05 and p = 0.026 < 0.05 respectively). Five adults were found to have cholangiocarcinoma within a follow-up period, while no child was found to. However, for adult patients, no significant discrepancy was observed between EHC group and LR group (p = 0.366 > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that the children have better outcomes than adults for patients with type IV-A choledochal cyst after EHC, while LR brings better outcomes than EHC for adult patients.