Nationwide trends in the use of subtotal cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis

A comparison of outcomes including bile duct injury of subtotal cholecystectomy versus open total cholecystectomy as bailout procedures for severe cholecystitis: A multicenter real-world study

BACKGROUND

Dense inflammation obscuring the hepatocystic anatomy can hinder the ability to perform a safe standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy in severe cholecystitis, requiring use of a bailout procedure. We compared clinical outcomes of laparoscopic and open subtotal cholecystectomy against the traditional standard of open total cholecystectomy to identify the optimal bailout strategy for the difficult gallbladder.

METHODS

A multicenter, multinational retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent bailout procedures for severe cholecystitis. Procedures were compared using one-way analysis of variance/Kruskal-Wallis tests and χ2 tests with multiple pairwise comparisons, maintaining a family-wise error rate at 0.05. Multiple multivariate linear/logistical regression models were created.

RESULTS

In 11 centers, 727 bailout procedures were conducted: 317 laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomies, 172 open subtotal cholecystectomies, and 238 open cholecystectomies. Baseline characteristics were similar among subgroups. Bile leak was common in laparoscopic and open fenestrating subtotal cholecystectomies, with increased intraoperative drain placements and postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(P < .05). In contrast, intraoperative bleeding (odds ratio = 3.71 [1.9, 7.22]), surgical site infection (odds ratio = 2.41 [1.09, 5.3]), intensive care unit admission (odds ratio = 2.65 [1.51, 4.63]), and length of stay (Δ = 2 days, P < .001) were higher in open procedures. Reoperation rates were higher for open reconstituting subtotal cholecystectomies (odds ratio = 3.43 [1.03, 11.44]) than other subtypes. The overall rate of bile duct injury was 1.1% and was not statistically different between groups. Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy had a bile duct injury rate of 0.63%.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy is a feasible surgical bailout procedure in cases of severe cholecystitis where standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy may carry undue risk of bile duct injury. Open cholecystectomy remains a reasonable option.

Subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conversion to open as a bailout procedure: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to evaluate morbidity and mortality in patients taken to conversion to open procedure (CO) and subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SLC) as bailout procedures when performing difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

METHOD

This observational cohort study retrospectively analyzed patients taken to SLC or CO as bailout surgery during difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy between 2014 and 2022. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify prognostic factors for morbimortality.

RESULTS

A total of 675 patients were included. Of the 675 patients (mean [SD] age 63.85 ± 16.00 years; 390 [57.7%] male) included in the analysis, 452 (67%) underwent CO and 223 (33%) underwent SLC. Overall, neither procedure had an increased risk of major complications (89 [19.69%] vs 35 [15.69%] P.207). However, CO had an increased risk of bile duct injury (18 [3.98] vs 1 [0.44] P.009), bleeding (mean [SD] 165.43 ± 368.57 vs 43.25 ± 123.42 P < .001), intestinal injury (20 [4.42%] vs 0 [0.00] P.001), and wound infection (18 [3.98%] vs 2 [0.89%] P.026), while SLC had a higher risk of bile leak (15 [3.31] vs 16 [7.17] P.024). On the multivariable analysis, Charlson comorbidity index (odds ratio [OR], 1.20; CI95%, 1.01-1.42), use of anticoagulant agents (OR, 2.56; CI95%, 1.21-5.44), classification of severity of cholecystitis grade III (OR, 2.96; CI95%, 1.48-5.94), and emergency admission (OR, 6.07; CI95%, 1.33-27.74) were associated with presenting major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

SLC was less associated with complications; however, there is scant evidence on its long-term outcomes. Further research is needed on SLC to establish if it is the safest in the long-term as a bailout procedure.

Association of severe obesity with risk of conversion to open in laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis

Background

Obesity is a known risk factor for cholecystitis and is associated with technical complications during laparoscopic procedures. The present study seeks to assess the association between obesity class and conversion to open (CTO) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC).

Methods

Adult acute cholecystitis patients with obesity undergoing non-elective LC were identified in the 2017-2020 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Patients were stratified by obesity class; class 1 (Body Mass Index [BMI] = 30.0-34.9), class 2 (BMI = 35.0-39.9), and class 3 (BMI ≥ 40.0). Multivariable regression models were developed to assess factors associated with CTO and its association with perioperative complications and resource utilization.

Results

Of 89,476 patients undergoing LC, 40.6 % had BMI ≥ 40.0. Before adjustment, class 3 obesity was associated with increased rates of CTO compared to class 1-2 (4.6 vs 3.8 %; p < 0.001). Following adjustment, class 3 remained associated with an increased likelihood of CTO (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] 1.45, 95 % Confidence Interval [CI] 1.31-1.61; ref.: class 1-2). Patients undergoing CTO had increased risk of blood transfusion (AOR 3.27, 95 % CI 2.54-4.22) and respiratory complications (AOR 1.36, 95 % CI 1.01-1.85). Finally, CTO was associated with incremental increases in hospitalization costs (β + $719, 95 % CI 538-899) and length of stay (LOS; β +2.20 days, 95 % CI 2.05-2.34).

Conclusions

Class 3 obesity is a significant risk factor for CTO. Moreover, CTO is associated with increased hospitalization costs and LOS. As the prevalence of obesity grows, improved understanding of operative risk by approach is required to optimize clinical outcomes. Our findings are relevant to shared decision-making and informed consent.

Minimally invasive approach in a rare emergency surgery, gallbladder perforation

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder perforations are challenging to manage for surgeons due to their high morbidity and mortality, rarity, and surgical approach. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is now included with open cholecystectomy in surgical managing gallbladder perforations. This study aimed to evaluate the factors affecting conversion from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy in cases of type I gallbladder perforation according to the Modified Niemeier classification.

METHODS

Patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups: LC and conversion to open cholecystectomy (COC). Demographic, clinical, radiologic, intraoperative, and postoperative factors were compared between groups.

RESULTS

This study included 42 patients who met the inclusion criteria, of which 28 were in the LC group and 14 were in the COC group. Their median age was 68 (55-85) years. Age did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.218). However, the sex distribution did differ significantly between groups (p = 0.025). The location of the perforation differed significantly between groups (p < 0.001). In the LC group, 22 patients were perforated from the fundus, four from the trunk, and two from the neck. In the COC group, two patients were perforated from the fundus, four from the trunk, and eight from the neck. Surgical procedure times differed significantly between the LC (105.0 min [60-225]) and COC (125.0 min [110-180]) groups (p = 0.035). The age of the primary surgeons also differed significantly between the LC (42 years [34-63]) and COC (55 years [36-59]) groups (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

LC can be safely performed for modified Niemeier type I gallbladder perforations. The proximity of the perforation site to Calot's triangle, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), and Tokyo classification are factors affecting conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery of gallbladder perforations.

External validation of the CholeS conversion from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy (CLOC) risk score in Aotearoa New Zealand: a validation study

BACKGROUND

Conversion of laparoscopic cholecystectomy to open is uncommon, but is associated with longer hospital stay and recovery. Prognosticating conversion may aid service planning and provision. We therefore aimed to assess the external validity of the largest risk score for operative conversion.

METHODS

CHOLENZ was a multicentre, prospective, national cohort study of cholecystectomy for benign biliary disease conducted by STRATA, a trainee-led collaborative network. Data were collected from patients undergoing cholecystectomy in New Zealand hospitals between 1 August and 30 October 2021 with 30-day follow-up. The Conversion from Laparoscopic to Open Cholecystectomy (CLOC) score from the CholeS study was assessed for external validity by interrogating its accuracy and calibration in the CHOLENZ dataset.

RESULTS

Of 1162 cholecystectomies started laparoscopically, 20 (1.7%) were converted to open in the CHOLENZ dataset. The CLOC score predicted 2.9% (IQR 1.3%-8.1%) would be converted. Area under the curve was 0.65 (95% 0.51-0.79) and calibration was acceptable with a Hosmer-Lemeshow p value of 0.45; with evidence of tendency to overestimate with interrogation of calibration across a continuous risk profile (intercept 1.27, slope 0.4). Sensitivity analysis with imputed data improved accuracy. Recalibration with the addition of body mass index, and preoperative bilirubin also improved accuracy to 0.86 (95% CI 0.78-0.95).

CONCLUSIONS

The CLOC score in its original form is not generalisable to the Aotearoa New Zealand setting and is therefore not suitable for clinical use in our local setting.

Utilization of the modified Kama scoring system for predicting bail-out cholecystectomy: a valuable tool in the era of rising laparoscopic surgery prevalence

PURPOSE

Recently, bail-out cholecystectomy (BOC) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy to avoid severe complications, such as vasculobiliary injury, has become widely used and increased in prevalence. However, current predictive factors or scoring systems are insufficient. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to test the validity of existing scoring systems and determine a suitable cutoff value for predicting BOC.

METHODS

We retrospectively assessed 305 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy and divided them into a total cholecystectomy group (n = 265) and a BOC group (n = 40). Preoperative and operative findings were collected, and cutoff values for the existing scoring systems (Kama's and Nassar's) were modified using a prospectively maintained database.

RESULTS

The BOC rate was 13% with no severe complications. A logistic regression analysis revealed that the Kama's score (odds ratio, 0.93; 95% confidence interval 0.91-0.96; P < 0.01) was an independent predictor of BOC. A cutoff value of 6.5 points gave an area under the curve of 0.81, with a sensitivity of 87% and a specificity of 67%.

CONCLUSIONS

Kama's difficulty scoring system with a modified cutoff value (6.5 points) is effective for predicting BOC.

Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy for the difficult gallbladder: Evolution of technique at a single teaching hospital

BACKGROUND

We have developed an algorithmic approach to laparoscopic cholecystectomy, including subtotal cholecystectomy, as a bailout strategy when the Critical View of Safety cannot be safely achieved due to significant inflammation and fibrosis of the hepatocystic triangle.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study comparing postoperative outcomes in patients with severe cholecystitis who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy or laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy at St. Joseph's Health Centre from May 2016 to July 2021, as well as against a historical cohort. We further stratified laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy cases based on fenestrating or reconstituting subtype.

RESULTS

The cohort included a total of 105 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy and 31 patients who underwent laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy. Bile leaks (25.8% vs 1.0%, relative risk 3.5, 95% confidence interval 3.5-208.4) were more common in the laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy group. Postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (22.6% vs 3.8%, relative risk 5.9, 95% confidence interval 1.9-18.9) and biliary stent insertion (19.4% vs 1.0%, relative risk 20.3, 95% confidence interval 2.5-162.5) were also more common in the laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy group. Bile leaks in laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy were only documented in the fenestration subtype, most of which were successfully managed with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and biliary stenting. Compared to our previous study of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and subtotal cholecystectomy for severe cholecystitis between 2010 and 2016, there has been a decrease in postoperative laparoscopic cholecystectomy complications, subtotal cholecystectomy cases, and no bile duct injuries.

CONCLUSION

Following our algorithmic approach to safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy has helped to prevent bile duct injury. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy remains the gold standard for the management of severe cholecystitis; however, in extreme cases, laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy is a safe bailout strategy with manageable morbidity.

Perioperative strategies for patients undergoing subtotal cholecystectomy: a single-center retrospective review of 102 procedures

BACKGROUND

Calculous gall bladder disease is often handled by laparoscopic cholecystectomy. In cases where a safe dissection of the hepatocystic triangle cannot be carried out, a subtotal cholecystectomy (STC) may be performed. The perioperative management of patients undergoing STC is characterized by limited evidence. This large single-center series explores some of the perioperative aspects and outcomes after STC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study population includes all patients who underwent STC at Oslo University Hospital (Ullevål and Aker Hospitals) from 01.01.2014 to 30.09.2020. A STC was defined as a cholecystectomy where there was a failure to control the cystic duct during surgery. Study variables included demographic data, comorbidities, previous biliopancreatic disease, indication for surgery, perioperative information, subsequent interventions and outcome data.

RESULTS

During the study period, 2376 cholecystectomies were performed, and 102 (4.3%) were categorized as STC. Of all patients with STC, 48 (47.1%) had an intra- or postoperative ERCP during the index hospital admission. The indication for ERCP was bile leak in 37 (42.6%) of the cases. The bile leak resolution rate was 60.0 % in intraoperative ERCP vs 95.7% in postoperative ERCP. Among the STC patients, there were no injuries to the central bile ducts. Later, one patient has undergone a remnant cholecystectomy, following fenestrating STC.

CONCLUSION

STC was a safe bailout strategy for dissection in the hepatocystic triangle in difficult cholecystectomies. Intraoperative ERCP increased procedure time and was associated with a lower rate of leak resolution, as compared to postoperative ERCP.

Subtotal cholecystectomy with omental pedicle plug for the challenging gallbladder: A case report and review of the literature

If patient anatomy or disease does not allow for a traditional or partial cholecystectomy, an omental pedicle plug may be a viable option to limit the risk of postoperative uncontrolled bile leak from the cystic duct and to control patient symptoms.

Subtotal vs total cholecystectomy for difficult gallbladders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

With severely inflamed gallbladders, laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be difficult and may require procedures like subtotal cholecystectomy (SC). Few studies exist comparing SC and total cholecystectomy (TC) in the setting of severe biliary inflammation. This meta-analysis aims to compare SC and TC for difficult gallbladders.

METHODS

Medline-OVID, Embase-OVID, and Cinahl were searched including only studies comparing SC to TC for difficult gallbladders. Primary outcome was CBD injury. Secondary outcomes included bile leak, duodenal injury, retained stone, bleeding, intraabdominal collection, wound infection, reoperation, and mortality.

RESULTS

Ten studies were included. Compared to TC, SC significantly lowered the risk for CBD injury (0 ​% vs. 1.6 ​%, RR 0.30, 95%CI 0.10-0.87) but increased risk of bile leaks (RR 3.5, 95%CI 1.79-6.84), postoperative ERCP (RR 2.86, 95%CI 1.53-5.35), intraabdominal collections (RR 2.55, 95%CI 1.32-4.93), and reoperation (RR 2.92, 95%CI 1.14-7.47).

CONCLUSION

SC is a reasonable alternative to difficult gallbladders that may decrease the risk of CBD injuries. Knowing both approaches is crucial to manage the difficult gallbladder while minimizing harm. Further studies are needed to understand the value of SC for difficult cholecystectomy.

Comparing Outcomes of Sub-Total Cholecystectomy Versus Open Cholecystectomy as Bailout Procedures for the Difficult Gallbladder

BACKGROUND

Although laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most common operations performed, there is no consensus on the best surgical approach when inflammation obscures hepatocystic anatomy in severe cholecystitis. Traditionally, this situation triggered conversion to open cholecystectomy (COC); however, in recent decades, alternative approaches have been described. We compared outcomes of bailout procedures for severe cholecystitis, primarily focusing on COC versus laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSTC).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review comparing outcomes of intended laparoscopic cholecystectomy cases that were converted to bailout procedures between 2015-2020 at a single institution. Bailout procedures were categorized into LSTC and COC groups. Demographics, clinical presentation, time to surgery, operative indications, operative duration, and post-operative outcomes were compared using independent sample t-tests with Welch-Satterthwaite correction or Wilcoxon rank-sum tests (continuous variables) or Fisher's exact/χ2 tests. A P-value of less than .05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Final analysis included 158 subjects: 55 LSTC and 99 COC. Patient demographics and clinical presentations were similar between groups. LSTC had shorter operative time, fewer ICU admissions, and shorter length of stay than COC (P < .05). There were 9 (9.2%) cases of ileus, 4 (4.0%) cases of post-operative bleeding, and 2 (2.0%) cases of bile duct injury in COC. There was 1 (1.8%) case of ileus, 1 (1.8%) case of post-operative bleeding, and no bile duct injury in LSTC.

CONCLUSION

LSTC was associated with fewer complications than COC, which had higher rates of biliary injury, bleeding, ileus, ICU admission, and longer hospital stay.

Comparison of Postoperative Outcomes, Costs, and Readmission Between Total and Subtotal Cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

An increasing body of literature supports subtotal cholecystectomy (STC) in the management of patients with difficult gallbladder anatomy; however, large-scale studies examining outcomes of total cholecystectomy and STC are lacking.

METHODS

All adults undergoing total cholecystectomy or STC were tabulated from the 2016-2019 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Entropy balancing was performed to adjust for patient differences based on extent of resection. Subsequent multivariable regression models were used to assess the association of STC with major adverse events, postoperative length of stay (pLOS), hospitalization costs, and 30-day non-elective readmission rates.

RESULTS

Of an estimated 854 357 patients, 7089 (.8%) underwent STC. Compared to total, STC patients were significantly older, less commonly female, and had a higher Elixhauser Index (all P < .001). Both cohorts had similar rates of postoperative ERCP (1.7% vs 1.5%, P = .33); however, the STC cohort had significantly higher utilization of subsequent drainage procedures (1.8% vs .5%, P < .001). After entropy balancing and multivariable risk-adjustment, STC was not associated with greater odds of MAE (AOR 1.11, 95% CI .99-1.23, P = .06). Notably, relative to total, STC was associated with longer pLOS (β .14, 95% CI .11-.17, P < .001) and greater hospitalization costs (β + $1,900, 95% CI 1300-2,500, P < .001). However, the extent of resection was not associated with the likelihood of 30-day non-elective readmission (AOR 1.01, 95% CI .91-1.13, P = .86).

DISCUSSION

Our findings suggest that STC is a viable, yet resource intensive, option in the management of complex cholecystitis.

How do magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography findings predict conversion from laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis to bailout procedures?

BACKGROUND

Acute cholecystitis is one of the most prevalent surgical abdominal conditions. The Tokyo Guidelines describe the management of acute cholecystitis and recommend bailout procedures for "difficult" cholecystitis cases. This study aimed to identify risk factors for conversion from laparoscopic cholecystectomy to bailout procedures in patients with acute cholecystitis.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single center between January 2017 and December 2021. Patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis were enrolled and classified into bailout and non-bailout groups. The patients' characteristics and perioperative data were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

In total, 161 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis were reviewed. Fourteen were excluded because of a lack of preoperative magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography; thus, 147 patients were enrolled (bailout group, 21; non-bailout group, 126). Age (74 vs 67 years old; P = .048), days from onset to surgery (3 vs 2 days; P = .02), or defect of cystic duct in magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (57% vs 29%; P = .02) were significantly associated with conversion to bailout procedures. In the logistic regression analysis, a defect of the cystic duct in magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography was an independent predictor for bailout procedures (odds ratio, 2.793; P = .04).

CONCLUSION

In this study, defect of the cystic duct in the magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography can predict conversion to bailout procedures. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to describe magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography finding of the cystic duct as a predictor of surgical difficulty in patients with acute cholecystitis.

Are outcomes for emergency index-admission laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed by hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons better compared to non-hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons? A 10-year audit using 1:1 propensity score matching

BACKGROUND

Emergency index-admission cholecystectomy (EIC) is recommended for acute cholecystitis in most cases. General surgeons have less exposure in managing "difficult" cholecystectomies. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of EIC between hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) versus non-HPB surgeons.

METHODS

This is a 10-year retrospective audit on patients who underwent EIC from December 2011 to March 2022. Patients who underwent open cholecystectomy, had previous cholecystitis, previous endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or cholecystostomy were excluded. A 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to adjust for confounding variables (e.g. age ≥ 75 years, history of abdominal surgery, presence of dense adhesions).

RESULTS

There were 1409 patients (684 HPB cases, 725 non-HPB cases) in the unmatched cohort. Majority (52.3%) of them were males with a mean age of 59.2 ± 14.9 years. Among 472 (33.5%) patients with EIC performed ≥ 72 hours after presentation, 40.1% had dense adhesion. The incidence of any morbidity, open conversion, subtotal cholecystectomy and bile duct injury were 12.4%, 5.0%, 14.6% and 0.1%, respectively. There was one mortality within 30 days from EIC. PSM resulted in 1166 patients (583 per group). Operative time was shorter when EIC was performed by HPB surgeons (115.5 min vs. 133.4 min, P < 0.001). The mean length of hospital stay was comparable. EIC performed by HPB surgeons was independently associated with lower open conversion [odds ratio (OR)=  0.24, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.12-0.49, P < 0.001], lower fundus-first cholecystectomy (OR=  0.58, 95% CI: 0.35-0.95, P=  0.032), but higher subtotal cholecystectomy (OR=  4.19, 95% CI: 2.24-7.84, P < 0.001). Any morbidity, bile duct injury and mortality were comparable between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

EIC performed by HPB surgeons were associated with shorter operative time and reduced risk of open conversion. However, the incidence of subtotal cholecystectomy was higher.

Epidemiology and outcomes of choledocholithiasis and cholangitis in the United States: trends and urban-rural variations

BACKGROUND

Gallstone disease poses a significant health burden in the United States. Choledocholithiasis and cholangitis are common complications of gallstone disease for which data on current epidemiological trends are lacking. We aimed to evaluate temporal changes in hospitalization, management, and outcomes for patients with choledocholithiasis and cholangitis.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample was used to identify discharges for choledocholithiasis and cholangitis between 2005 and 2014. Temporal trends were evaluated via annual percent changes (APCs). Joinpoint regression was used to assess inflection points. Multivariable regression models were used to evaluate associations of interest.

RESULTS

From 189,362 unweighted discharges for choledocholithiasis and/or cholangitis, there was an increase in discharges for choledocholithiasis (APC 2.3%, 95% confidence intervals, CI, 1.9-2.7%) and cholangitis (APC 1.5%, 95% CI 0.7-2.2%). Procedural interventions were more likely at urban hospitals for choledocholithiasis (adjusted odds ratio, aOR, 2.94, 95% CI 2.72 to 3.17) and cholangitis (aOR 2.97, 95% CI 2.50 to 3.54). In-hospital mortality significantly decreased annually for choledocholithiasis (aOR 0.90, 95% CI 0.88 to 0.93) and cholangitis (aOR 0.93, 95% CI 0.89 to 0.97). In-hospital mortality between rural and urban centers was comparable for choledocholithiasis (aOR 1.16, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.52) and cholangitis (aOR 1.12, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.72).

CONCLUSIONS

Hospitalizations for choledocholithiasis and cholangitis have increased between 2005 and 2014, reflecting a growing burden of gallstone disease. Hospital mortality between urban and rural centers is similar, however urban centers have a higher rate of procedural interventions suggesting limitations to accessing procedural interventions at rural centers.

Multiple logistic regression model to predict bile leak associated with subtotal cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

There are no prediction models for bile leakage associated with subtotal cholecystectomy (STC). Therefore, this study aimed to generate a multivariable prediction model for post-STC bile leakage and evaluate its overall performance.

METHODS

We analysed prospectively managed data of patients who underwent STC by a single consultant surgeon between 14 May 2013 and 21 December 2021. STC was schematised into four variants with five subvariants and classified broadly as closed-tract or open-tract STC. A contingency table was used to detect independent risk factors for bile leakage. A multiple logistic regression analysis was used to generate a model. Discrimination and calibration statistics were computed to assess the accuracy of the model.

RESULTS

A total of 81 patients underwent the STC procedure. Twenty-eight patients (35%) developed bile leakage. Of these, 18 patients (64%) required secondary surgical intervention. Multivariable logistic regression revealed two independent predictors of post-STC bile leak: open-tract STC (odds ratio [OR], 7.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.191-25.89; P = 0.0170) and acute cholecystitis (OR, 5.449; 95% CI, 1.584-23.48; P = 0.0121). The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve was 82.11% (95% CI, 72.87-91.34; P < 0.0001). Tjur's pseudo-R2 was 0.3189 and the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit statistic was 4.916 (P = 0.7665).

CONCLUSIONS

Open-tract STC and acute cholecystitis are the most reliable predictors of bile leakage associated with STC. Future prospective, multicentre studies with higher statistical power are needed to generate more specific and externally validated prediction models for post-STC bile leaks.

Impact of fundus-first laparoscopic cholecystectomy for severe cholecystitis

BACKGROUND

The Tokyo Guidelines 2018 proposed fundus-first laparoscopic cholecystectomy (FFLC) as a bailout surgery. This study investigated the clinical impact of FFLC for severe cholecystitis.

METHODS

This study reviewed 772 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) between 2015 and 2018. Of these patients, 171 patients were diagnosed with severe cholecystitis according to our difficulty scoring system. FFLC was not prevalent in our faculty for the first 2 years [early period group (EG)], whereas FFLC was predominantly used for the last 2 years [late period group (LG)]. There were 81 patients (47%) belonging to the EG and 90 patients (53%) in the LG. The clinical data and the surgical outcomes of these patients were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The difficulty score did not differ between the two groups (11 vs. 11 points, p = 0.846). Patients underwent FFLC significantly more frequently in the LG (63% vs. 12%, p = 0.020). Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSC) was done in 10 patients (11%) of the LG, which was significantly low compared to that in the EG (n = 20, 25%) (p = 0.020). In all patients, LC was safely achieved without bile duct injury or conversion to laparotomy. The incidence of choledocholithiasis was significantly low in the LG (0 vs. 4, p = 0.048). The median postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the LG (6 vs. 4 days, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

After the introduction of FFLC, there were significant improvements in the surgical outcomes of LC for severe cholecystitis, including the rate of LSC, incidence of choledocholithiasis, and duration of postoperative hospital stay.

Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis following the Tokyo Guidelines 2018: a prospective single-center study of 201 consecutive cases

BACKGROUND

Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) for acute cholecystitis (AC) poses multiple challenges. The Tokyo Guidelines 2018 (TG18) eliminated the time limit (< 72 h) and expanded the surgical indication to severe AC. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of ELC for AC following the TG18 in a single high-volume center.

METHODS

From 2019 to 2021, we managed all AC patients with a TG18 flowchart and prospectively enrolled those who underwent ELC within 7 days of symptom onset. The primary outcome was overall morbidity, with a comparison between mild (Grade I) and moderate/severe (Grade II/III) AC.

RESULTS

During the study period, 201 patients underwent ELC was for Grade I (56.2%), II (40.3%), and III (3.5%) ACs. Mean age was 69 ± 15.2 years and time to surgery from symptom onset was 0 (12.9%), 1-3 (66.7%), and 4-7 days (20.4%). Mean operative time and blood loss were 118.9 ± 42.7 min and 57.8 ± 99.4 mL, respectively. The critical view of safety (CVS) was achieved in 76.1% of patients, and bailout procedures were performed in 21.4%. There were no open conversions or bile duct injuries. Major morbidities (Clavien-Dindo classification ≥ IIIa) were observed in 5.5% of cases and mortality in 0.5%. Comparing Grades II/III to Grade I, operative time was longer (112.3 vs. 127.3 min, p = 0.014), blood loss was higher (40.3 vs. 80.1 mL, p = 0.005), the CVS rate was lower (83.2 vs. 67.0%, p = 0.012), and the major morbidity rate was higher (1.8 vs. 10.2%, p = 0.012). In the subgroup analysis of Grade II/III, there were no significant differences in major morbidities (p = 0.288) between the two groups (0-3 vs. 4-7 days).

CONCLUSION

ELC for AC following TG18 is feasible with low morbidity rates. However, ELC for Grade II/III ACs remains challenging, and surgeons must carefully assess intraoperative difficulties and surgical risks before proceeding.

State of the art in subtotal cholecystectomy: An overview

Introduction

Subtotal cholecystectomy is a type of surgical bail-out procedure indicated when facing difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy due to not reaching the critical view of safety, inadequate identification of the anatomical structures involved and/or risk of injury.

Materials and methods

A comprehensive search on PubMed were performed using the following Mesh terms: Subtotal cholecystectomy and Partial cholecystectomy. The PubMed databases were used to search for English-language reports related to Subtotal cholecystectomy between January 1, 1987, the date of the first published laparoscopic cholecystectomy, through January 2023. 41 studies were included.

Results

Subtotal cholecystectomy's incidence oscillates between 4.00% and 9.38%. Strasberg et al., divided subtotal cholecystectomies in "fenestrating" and "reconstituting" types based on if the remaining portion of the gallbladder was left open or closed. Subtotal cholecystectomy can sometimes be a challenging procedure and is associated to a high rate of complications such as biliary fistula, retained gallstones, subhepatic or subphrenic collections, among others.

Conslusion

Subtotal cholecystectomy is a safe alternative when facing difficult cholecystectomy in which the critical view of safety is not reached in order to avoid complications. A classification system should be implemented in surgical descriptions to compare the different surgical techniques employed. In order to avoid bile leakage and cholecystitis of the remnant gallbladder, the surgical technique must be performed skillfully. There is still a current lack of information on alternative techniques such as omental plugging or falciform patch in order to judge their utility. There needs to be further research on long-term complications such as malignancy of the remnant gallbladder.

The Safe Cholecystectomy: Evaluating the Use of Laparoscopic Subtotal Cholecystectomy Between Junior and Senior Faculty

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Subtotal Cholecystectomy (SC) is a technique for performing safe cholecystectomy when excessive inflammation prevents exposure of the Critical View of Safety. Studies have evaluated outcomes and complications of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), with mixed results in terms of surgeon experience. It is unclear if the rate of SC is associated with experience. We hypothesized that the rate of SC would decrease as surgical experience increased.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of LC performed at an academic medical center. Demographics were analyzed using descriptive statistics. We performed a multivariable logistic regression to examine the relationship between years in practice and performance of SC. We performed a sensitivity analysis comparing those in their first year on faculty with all others.

RESULTS

Between November 1, 2017, and November 1, 2021, there were 1222 LC performed. 771 patients (63%) were female. 89 patients (7.3%) underwent SC. There were no bile duct injuries requiring reconstruction. Controlling for age, sex, and ASA class, there was no difference in the rate of SC by years of experience (OR .98, 95% CI .94-1.01). In a sensitivity analysis comparing first-year faculty to those beyond their first year, there was also no difference (OR .76, 95% CI 0.42-1.39).

DISCUSSION

We find no difference in the rate of performance of SC between junior and senior faculty. This reflects consistency, in keeping with best practice guidelines. This could be confounded by junior faculty requesting assistance during difficult operations. Further investigation into factors affecting decision-making may clarify this.

Navigation by modified and dynamic intraoperative cholangiography during laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy for difficult gallbladder

We used modified and dynamic intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) navigation during laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy for difficult gallbladders. We have defined an IOC that does not open the cystic duct as a modified IOC. Modified IOC methods include the percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) tube method, the infundibulum puncture method, and the infundibulum cannulation method. Case 1 was chronic cholecystitis after PTGBD for acute cholecystitis with pericholecystic abscess. In this case, modified IOC was performed via PTGBD, and biliary anatomy and incarcerated stone were confirmed. Case 2 was chronic cholecystitis after endoscopic sphincterotomy for cholecystocholedocholithiasis. In this case, modified IOC was performed via gallbladder puncture needle, and biliary anatomy and incision line were confirmed. The target point on the laparoscopic image was determined by moving the tip of the grasping forceps under modified IOC, which we call modified and dynamic IOC. We conclude that the navigation by the modified and dynamic IOC via PTGBD tube or puncture needle is useful to identify biliary anatomy, incarcerated gallbladder stone, and safe incision line during laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy .

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

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

Subtotal Fenestrating Cholecystectomy: A Safe and Effective Approach to the Difficult Gallbladder

INTRODUCTION

Subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SUB) is an alternative to total laparoscopic cholecystectomy (TOT) when the critical view of safety (CVS) cannot be achieved. Little is known about the clinical factors and postoperative outcomes associated with SUB. The objective was to determine predictive factors and outcomes of SUB as compared to TOT.

METHODS

Clinical data from patients admitted from our emergency department to the acute care surgery service who underwent SUB or TOT by an acute care surgery surgeon for acute biliary disease (2017-2019) were reviewed. Wilcoxon rank-sum and Fisher's exact tests were used.

RESULTS

355 patients underwent cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis; 28 were SUB (7.9%). SUB patients were more likely to be older (57 versus 43 y; P = 0.015), male (60.7% versus 39.3%; P < 0.001), have a history of cirrhosis or liver disease (14.3% versus 2.1%; P = 0.007), and have a higher Charlson-Comorbidity Index (1 versus 0, P = 0.041). SUB had greater leukocytosis (14.6 versus 10.9; P < 0.001), higher total bilirubin (0.9 versus 0.6; P = 0.021), and a higher Tokyo grade (2 versus 1; P < 0.001), and had operative findings including gallbladder decompression (82.1% versus 23.2%; P < 0.001) and inability to achieve the CVS (78.6% versus 3.4%; P < 0.001). SUB patients had an increased length of stay (4 versus 2 d; P < 0.001) and more 1-y readmissions. No major vascular injuries occurred in either group with one biliary injury in the TOT group.

CONCLUSIONS

SUB patients present with more significant markers of biliary disease and have more complicated intraoperative and postoperative courses. However, the lack of biliary or vascular injuries suggests that SUB may represent a safe alternative when the CVS cannot be achieved.

From mild to gangrenous cholecystitis, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safe 24 hours a day

OBJECTIVES

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) at night remains controversial. Prior studies have not controlled for disease severity. We analyzed outcomes of LC performed day vs. night while controlling for the Parkland Grading Scale for Cholecystitis (PGS).

METHODS

Analysis of the AAST multicenter evaluation of cholecystitis database was performed. Exclusion criteria included non-operative cases, open operations, and missing PGS. Cases were divided based on operation start time. PGS was used to control for disease severity. Outcomes included operative time, use of bailout techniques and complications.

RESULTS

Of 759 procedures identified, 16% were nighttime LC. No differences in demographics, comorbidities, physiologic variables and PGS were noted. Operative time (108.6 min vs 105.6), bailout techniques (8.3% vs 7.4%) and complications (9.9% vs 11.3%) were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

Regardless of severity, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safe 24-h a day. Operations performed at night have a similar complication profile to those performed during the day.

Laparoscopic Lumen-guided cholecystectomy in face of the difficult gallbladder

BACKGROUND

Where the critical view of safety cannot be established during cholecystectomy, certain salvage techniques are indicated to reduce the likelihood of bile duct injury. The present study describes a salvage technique termed the "laparoscopic lumen-guided cholecystectomy" (LLC) and reports its peri-operative outcomes.

METHOD

A summary of the technique is as follows: (1) Hartmann's pouch is incised and stones are evacuated; (2) the cystic anatomy is inspected from the inside of the gallbladder; (3) the lumen is used to guide retrograde dissection towards the cystic pedicle; (4) cystic duct control is achieved if deemed safe. LLC cases performed between June 2020 and January 2022 in a single health board were included. The operative details and peri-operative outcomes of the technique are reported and compared to cases of similar difficulty where the LLC was not attempted.

RESULTS

LLC was performed in 4.6% (27/587) of cases. In all 27 cases, LLC was performed for a "frozen" cholecystohepatic triangle. Hartmann's pouch was completely excised in all cases (27/27) and cystic duct control was achieved in 85.2% of cases (23/27). No cases of bile leak or ductal injury were reported. Rates of bile leak, post-operative complications and ERCP were lower following LLC compared to the group where LLC was not attempted (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

LLC is a safe salvage technique and should be considered in cases where the critical view of safety cannot be established. The technique achieves cystic duct control in the majority of cases and favourable outcomes in the face of a difficult cholecystectomy.

Early Outcomes of Subtotal vs Total Cholecystectomy for Acute Cholecystitis

This cohort study compares outcomes including hospital length of stay and 30-day rates of complications after nonelective subtotal cholecystectomy vs total cholecystectomy among patients with cholecystitis.

Preoperative risk score to predict subtotal cholecystectomy after gallbladder drainage for acute cholecystitis: Secondary analysis of data from a multi-institutional retrospective study (CSGO-HBP-017B)

INTRODUCTION

Subtotal cholecystectomy (STC) has become recognized as a "bailout procedure" to prevent bile duct injury in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Predictors of conversion to STC have not been identified because LC difficulty varies based on pericholecystic inflammation. We analyzed data from patients enrolled in a previously performed multi-institutional retrospective study of the optimal timing of LC after gallbladder drainage for acute cholecystitis (AC). These patients presumably had a considerable degree of pericholecystic inflammation.

METHODS

In total, 347 patients who underwent LC after gallbladder drainage for AC were analyzed to examine preoperative and perioperative factors predicting conversion to STC.

RESULTS

Three hundred patients underwent total cholecystectomy (TC) and 47 underwent conversion to STC. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) (P < .01), severity of cholecystitis (P = .04), previous history of treatment for common bile duct stones (CBDS) (P < .01), and surgeon experience (P = .03) were significantly associated with conversion to STC. Logistic regression analyses showed that ECOG PS (odds ratio 0.2; P < .0001) and previous history of treatment for CBDS (odds ratio 0.37; P = .0073) were independent predictors of conversion to STC. Our predictive risk score using these two variables suggested that a score ≥2 could discriminate between TC and STC (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

Poor ECOG PS and previous history of treatment for CBDS were significantly associated with conversion to STC after gallbladder drainage for AC.

Presence of cystic duct stone is a risk for postoperative retained stones in patients with acute cholecystitis

PURPOSE

Retained stones (RS) in the common bile duct (CBD) are one of the major problems after laparoscopic cholecystectomy and usually require endoscopic treatment. However, few reports have investigated risk factors for the development of RS in the CBD.

METHODS

A total of 325 patients with acute cholecystitis underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy at our hospital between January 2013 and Jury 2021. Patient characteristics, including radiographic factors and perioperative outcomes, were reviewed, and perioperative factors predicting RS in the CBD were investigated.

RESULTS

RS in the CBD were developed in 34 patients. All 34 patients were treated endoscopically. ASA-PS class 3 or more (p = 0.029, odds ratio = 2.601), subtotal cholecystectomy performance (p = 0.004, odds ratio = 3.783) and the presence of cystic duct stones (p < 0.001, odds ratio = 11.759) were found by logistic regression analysis to be independent risk factors for developing RS in the CBD. Cystic duct stones were preoperatively detected in 60 patients. Of these, 21 cases were not detected on magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) but on CT, while 15 cases were not detected on CT but on MRCP.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of cystic duct stones on preoperative CT or MRCP is a crucial risk factor for developing RS in the CBD. Both CT and MRCP are useful to avoid overlooking cystic duct stones.

Effects of Individualized Nursing Based on Zero-Defect Theory on Perioperative Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Objective

This study is aimed at analyzing the effects of individualized nursing based on the zero-defect theory on perioperative patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

174 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy from 1st November 2019 to 30th November 2020 were enrolled as the research subjects and randomly divided into control and observation groups. The patients in the control group received conventional perioperative nursing care, and the patients in the observation group were treated with individualized nursing based on the zero-defect theory.

Results

The heart rate, diastolic blood pressure, and systolic blood pressure level of patients in two groups after nursing decreased significantly, and the reduction in the observation group was more significant than that in the control group. The depression and anxiety scores of the two groups after nursing were decreased, and the decrease in the observation group was significantly greater than that in the control group. The time to first postoperative exhaust, return to normal intake, out-of-bed activity, and hospital stay in the observation group was less than that in the control group. The incidence of postoperative complications in the observation group was substantially lower than that in the control group. The satisfaction degree of nursing care in the observation group was significantly higher than that in the control group.

Conclusion

Individualized nursing care based on zero-defect theory can effectively reduce the perioperative psychological stress response of patients with laparoscopic cholecystectomy. It helps to improve the negative emotions of depression and anxiety, promotes the recovery of disease, reduces postoperative complications, and improves nursing satisfaction, which is worthy of clinical promotion.

Laparoscopic bailout surgery effective procedure for patients with difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy

TG18 recommends bailout surgery (BOS) for difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy. However, there is not a clear criterion on the decision process on whether to continue laparoscopic BOS or open BOS, and optimal procedure for treatment for the remnant cystic bile duct also awaits discussion. We comparted with open BOS and laparoscopic BOS, and compared with suture close and clipping or ligating of remnant cystic duct. We have accrued 57 patients underwent BOS during study period. Seventeen cases underwent laparoscopic BOS, and 38 cases underwent open BOS. There were 22 patients were accrued in suture closing and 35 patients were accrued in clipping or ligating. Open BOS experienced high levels of CRP, WBC, NLR, and CAR, and was associated with significantly longer hospitalization, operating time, and amount of bleeding. Suture close was higher in patients with preoperative endoscopic lithotripsy (EL). BOS can be sufficiently performed under laparoscopy. Patients underwent preoperative EL tended to be higher necessity to suture close of cystic duct.

Acute Cholecystitis: A Review

IMPORTANCE

Gallbladder disease affects approximately 20 million people in the US. Acute cholecystitis is diagnosed in approximately 200 000 people in the US each year.

OBSERVATIONS

Gallstone-associated cystic duct obstruction is responsible for 90% to 95% of the cases of acute cholecystitis. Approximately 5% to 10% of patients with acute cholecystitis have acalculous cholecystitis, defined as acute inflammation of the gallbladder without gallstones, typically in the setting of severe critical illness. The typical presentation of acute cholecystitis consists of acute right upper quadrant pain, fever, and nausea that may be associated with eating and physical examination findings of right upper quadrant tenderness. Ultrasonography of the right upper quadrant has a sensitivity of approximately 81% and a specificity of approximately 83% for the diagnosis of acute cholecystitis. When an ultrasound result does not provide a definitive diagnosis, hepatobiliary scintigraphy (a nuclear medicine study that includes the intravenous injection of a radiotracer excreted in the bile) is the gold standard diagnostic test. Following diagnosis, early (performed within 1-3 days) vs late (performed after 3 days) laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with improved patient outcomes, including fewer composite postoperative complications (11.8% for early vs 34.4% for late), a shorter length of hospital stay (5.4 days vs 10.0 days), and lower hospital costs. During pregnancy, early laparoscopic cholecystectomy, compared with delayed operative management, is associated with a lower risk of maternal-fetal complications (1.6% for early vs 18.4% for delayed) and is recommended during all trimesters. In people older than 65 years of age, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with lower mortality at 2-year follow-up (15.2%) compared with nonoperative management (29.3%). A percutaneous cholecystostomy tube, in which a drainage catheter is placed in the gallbladder lumen under image guidance, is an effective therapy for patients with an exceptionally high perioperative risk. However, percutaneous cholecystostomy tube placement in a randomized trial was associated with higher rates of postprocedural complications (65%) compared with laparoscopic cholecystectomy (12%). For patients with acalculous acute cholecystitis, percutaneous cholecystostomy tube should be reserved for patients who are severely ill at the time of diagnosis; all others should undergo a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Acute cholecystitis, typically due to gallstone obstruction of the cystic duct, affects approximately 200 000 people in the US annually. In most patient populations, laparoscopic cholecystectomy, performed within 3 days of diagnosis, is the first-line therapy for acute cholecystitis.

Comparison of Fenestrating and Reconstituting Subtotal Cholecystectomy Techniques in Difficult Cholecystectomy

Purpose

Cholecystectomy is one of the most frequently performed surgeries. Although laparoscopy is considered the gold standard approach, it cannot prevent biliary injuries. Subtotal cholecystectomy has been performed mainly to prevent biliary injuries during difficult cholecystectomies. This study aimed to analyse our subtotal cholecystectomy results for difficult cholecystectomy cases and to evaluate the fenestrating and reconstituting techniques.

Methods

Retrospective data were collected and analysed statistically for cases that underwent subtotal cholecystectomy in a single referral centre between 2015 and 2020. Comparisons were made of the patients’ age, gender, preoperative American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) score, comorbidities, surgical timing, surgical procedure choice, postoperative complications, and mortality.

Results

The number of patients who underwent subtotal cholecystectomy was 46; 30.4% underwent emergent surgery and 69.6% underwent elective surgery. Twelve patients had subtotal fenestrating cholecystectomy and 34 had subtotal reconstituting cholecystectomy. Wound issues were noted in 17.4% of the patients, while 10.9% had temporary biliary fistulas that resolved spontaneously. Reoperation was performed in one patient due to high-output biliary drainage. Patients with postoperative complications had significantly higher co-morbid conditions (p=0.000), but surgery timing (p=0.192) and type of subtotal cholecystectomy (p=0.409) had no statistically significant effect on complications. Mortality showed a statistically significant correlation with patient comorbidities, surgery timing, and the type of procedure (p<0.05). Postoperative complications showed a statistically significant correlation with mortality (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Subtotal cholecystectomy prevents major biliary complications after cholecystectomy. Yet, the frequency of postoperative complications after subtotal cholecystectomy is incontrovertible. Intraoperative characteristics and the surgeon’s expertise decide the optimal choice of the subtotal cholecystectomy technique.

Patient and surgeon factors contributing to bailout cholecystectomies: a single-institutional retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomies continue to pose trouble for surgeons in the face of severe inflammation. In the advent of inability to perform an adequate dissection, a "bailout cholecystectomy" is advocated. Conversion to open or subtotal cholecystectomy is among the standard bailout procedures in such instances.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective single institution review from January 2016 to August 2019. All patients who underwent a cholecystectomy were included, while those with a concurrent operation, malignancy, planned as an open cholecystectomy, or performed by a low volume surgeon were excluded. Patient characteristics, operative reports, and outcomes were collected, as were surgeon characteristics such as years of experience, case volume, and bailout rate. Univariable and multivariable analysis were performed.

RESULTS

2458 (92.6%) underwent laparoscopic total cholecystectomy (LTC) and 196 (7.4%) underwent a bailout cholecystectomy (BOC). BOC patients tended to be older (p < 0.001), male (p < 0.001), have a longer duration of symptoms (p < 0.001), and higher ASA class (p < 0.001). They also had more signs of biliary inflammation, as evidenced by increased leukocytosis (p < 0.001), tachycardia (p < 0.001), bilirubinemia (p = 0.003), common bile duct dilation (p < 0.001), and gallbladder wall thickening (p < 0.001). The BOC cohort also had increased rates of complications, including bile leak (16%, p < 0.001), retained stone (5.1%, p = 0.005), operative time (114 min vs 79 min, p < 0.001), and secondary interventions (22.7%, p < 0.001). Male gender (aOR = 2.8, p < 0.001), preoperative diagnosis of acute cholecystitis (aOR = 2.2, p = 0.032), right upper quadrant tenderness (aOR = 3.0, p = 0.008), Asian race (aOR = 2.7, p = 0.014), and intraoperative adhesions (aOR = 13.0, p < 0.001) were found to carry independent risk for BOC. Surgeon bailout rate ≥ 7% was also found to be an independent risk factor for conversion to BOC.

CONCLUSIONS

Male gender, signs of biliary inflammation (tachycardia, leukocytosis, dilated CBD, and diagnosis of acute cholecystitis), as well as surgeon bailout rate of 7% were independent risk factors for BOC.

The second 'gallbladder operation'

Background:

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

Methods:

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

Results:

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

Conclusion:

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

[Modern principles of safety in laparoscopic cholecystectomy]

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has many advantages over open surgery. Nevertheless, incidence of intraoperative bile duct injury is consistently higher for laparoscopic technique. This review is devoted to modern principles of identifying the anatomical elements in hepatoduodenal ligament and rules for safe tissue dissection in this area. The last ones mainly consist in formation of «critical view of safety» before clipping and transection of tubular structures. The key for «critical view of safety» is mobilization of fatty and fibrous tissues of hepatocystic triangle starting from the lower third of the gallbladder.

A nationwide analysis of gallbladder surgery in England between 2000 and 2019

BACKGROUND

There are no reports on nationwide trends in subtotal cholecystectomy (STC) and cholecystostomy in England. We hypothesized that, as in the United States, a substantial increase in the utilization of these surgical procedures, over time, may be observed. We aimed to generate a reliable report on 4 of the most common gallbladder surgical procedures in England to allow cross-procedure comparisons and highlight significant changes in the management of benign gallbladder disease over time.

METHODS

We obtained data from NHS Digital and extracted population estimates from the Office of National Statistics. We examined the trends in the use of STC, cholecystostomy, cholecystolithotomy and total cholecystectomy (TC) between 2000 and 2019.

RESULTS

Of the 1,234,319 gallbladder surgeries performed, TC accounted for 96.8% (n = 1,194,786) and the other 3 surgeries for 3.2% (n = 39,533). The total number of gallbladder surgeries performed annually increased by 80.4% from 2000 to 2019. We detected increases in the counts of cholecystostomies by 723.1% (n = 290 in 2000 vs n = 2,387 in 2019) and STCs by 716.6% (n = 217 in 2000 vs n = 1,772 in 2019). Consequently, there was a decrease in the ratio of TC to STC (180:1 in 2000 vs 38:1 in 2019). A similar decrease was observed in the ratio of cholecystectomy to cholecystostomy (135:1 in 2000 vs 29:1 in 2019).

CONCLUSION

Increased utilization of STC and cholecystostomy was detected in England. These findings highlight the importance of regular monitoring of nationwide trends in gallbladder surgery and the associated clinical outcomes.

Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage for grade II or III acute cholecystitis

Background

Severe adhesions and fibrosis between the posterior wall of the gallbladder and liver bed often render total cholecystectomy after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) difficult, leading to high open conversion rates. Since the publication of Tokyo Guidelines 2018 (TG18), our policy has shifted from open conversion to subtotal cholecystectomy (SC) when total laparoscopic cholecystectomy for difficult cases of cholecystitis is not feasible. Recently, SC has been frequently applied as bailout surgery for complicated cholecystitis. Nonetheless, the efficacy and validity of laparoscopic SC after PTGBD remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic SC after PTGBD for grade II or III acute cholecystitis (AC) by comparing two periods of altered surgical strategies.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2013 and December 2020. A total of 44 eligible patients with grade II or III AC were divided according to the time of cholecystitis onset into the pre-TG18 group (2013–2017, n = 17) and post-TG18 group (2018–2020, n = 27). Patients’ background demographics, surgical method, surgical results, and postoperative complications were compared.

Results

The interval between PTGBD and surgery was significantly longer in the post-TG18 group than in the pre-TG18 group (15 [interquartile range: 9–42] days vs. 8 [4–11] days; P = 0.010). The frequency of laparoscopic cholecystectomy significantly increased from 52.9% in the pre-TG18 group to 88.9% in the post-TG18 group (P = 0.007), whereas the frequency of SC was 23.5% and 40.7%, respectively, which showed no statistically significant difference (P = 0.241). However, the rate of laparoscopic SC significantly increased from 0 to 90.9% among 15 SC cases, whereas the rate of open SC significantly plummeted from 100 to 9.1% (P = 0.001). Significant differences in the operative time, amount of intraoperative bleeding, and incidence of postoperative complications (wound infection and subhepatic abscess) were not observed. Mortality, bile leakage, and bile duct injury did not occur in either group.

Conclusions

For grade II or III AC after PTGBD, aggressive adoption of SC increased the completion rate of laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic SC is a safe and feasible treatment option.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12893-021-01387-w.

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

Background

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

Patients and methods

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

Results

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

Conclusion

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

Risks associated with subtotal cholecystectomy and the factors influencing them: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 85 studies published between 1985 and 2020

BACKGROUND

Subtotal cholecystectomy is recognized as a rescue procedure performed in grossly suboptimal circumstances that would deem a total cholecystectomy too risky to execute. An earlier systematic review based on 30 studies published between 1985 and 2013 concluded that subtotal cholecystectomy had a morbidity rate comparable to that of total cholecystectomy. This systematic review appraises 17 clinical outcomes in patients undergoing subtotal cholecystectomy.

METHODS

The study protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (CRD42020172808). MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane bibliographic databases, and Google Scholar were used to identify papers published between 1985 and June 2020. Data related to the surgical setting, approach, intervention on the hepatic wall of the gallbladder, type of completion of subtotal cholecystectomy, year of study, and study design were collected. Seventeen clinical outcomes were considered. Meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model, and the effect size was presented as risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

From 1,017 records, 85 eligible studies were identified and included. These included 3,645 patients who underwent subtotal cholecystectomy. Laparoscopic (80.1%, n = 2,918) and reconstituting (74.6%, n = 2,719) approaches represented the majority of all subtotal cholecystectomy cases. Seven (0.2%) cases of injury to the bile duct were reported. Bile leak was reported in 506 (13.9%) patients. Reconstituting subtotal cholecystectomy was associated with a lower risk for 11 clinical outcomes. Open subtotal cholecystectomy was associated with an increased rate of 30-day mortality and wound infections.

CONCLUSION

Subtotal cholecystectomy is associated with significant morbidity. Laparoscopic and reconstituting surgery may reduce the risks of some perioperative complications and long-term sequelae after subtotal cholecystectomy.

Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy: comparison of reconstituting and fenestrating techniques

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Challenging situations in cholecystectomy and strategies to overcome them

Background

Cholecystectomy may be difficult and hazardous, causing major morbidity and mortality. This review aims to identify situations increasing the probability of difficult gallbladders and present today’s best practice to overcome them.

Methods

Review of the literature and expert comment.

Results

One in six gallbladders is expected to be a difficult cholecystectomy. The majority can be predicted by patient history, clinical symptoms, and pre-existing comorbidities. Acute cholecystitis, mild biliary pancreatitis, prior endoscopic sphincterotomy, and liver cirrhosis are the predominant underlying diseases. Early or delayed cholecystectomy, percutaneous cholecystostomy, and pure conservative treatment are evidence-based options. Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy is of advantage in patients fit for surgery, with subtotal cholecystectomy or conversion to open surgery as bail-out strategies. The choice of the procedure depends on the experience of the surgeon.

Conclusion

Clinical decisions should follow a pathway based on patients’ risk, favoring laparoscopic cholecystectomy whenever possible. The implementation of an institutional pathway to deal with difficult gallbladders is recommended.

Factors that Predict the Need for Subtotal Cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Subtotal cholecystectomy is a "damage control" or "bailout procedure" that is used in difficult gallbladder cases when severe inflammation distorts the local anatomy resulting in increased risk in damage to surrounding structures. Subtotal cholecystectomy rates increased nationally over the past decade. We aimed to determine provider experience and patient factors associated with the performance of subtotal cholecystectomies.

METHODS

All cholecystectomies from 2016 to 2019 were reviewed. Patient demographics, laboratory values, imaging, preoperative diagnosis, surgical technique (fenestrating vs. reconstituting), and years of attending and resident experience were collected. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to evaluate for factors that increase the likelihood of subtotal cholecystectomy.

RESULTS

Of 916 cholecystectomies, 86 were subtotal. The likelihood of subtotal cholecystectomy did not increase based on attending experience of ≤5 vs. > 5 years (odds ratio (OR) .66, P = .09). Older age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.23, P = .03), male sex (aOR 2.59, P < .01), white blood cells (WBC) above 10.3 (aOR 2.02, P = .02), and preoperative diagnosis of acute on chronic cholecystitis (aOR 5.47, P < .01) were associated with increased likelihood of subtotal cholecystectomy.

DISCUSSION

Older age, male sex, WBC above 10.3, and preoperative diagnosis of acute on chronic cholecystitis were associated with the increased likelihood of subtotal cholecystectomies. The performance of subtotal cholecystectomy was not impacted by attending years of experience. In cases of severe gallbladder pathology, this technique is being used as an operative strategy among all surgeon levels.

Endoscopic plastic stent therapy for bile leaks following total vs subtotal cholecystectomy

Background and study aims  Plastic biliary stents are standard therapy for treatment of post-cholecystectomy bile leaks. An increasing proportion of patients now undergo subtotal cholecystectomy and are at perceived risk for high-grade bile leak. Data are limited regarding the optimal endoscopic therapy following subtotal cholecystectomy. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of endoscopic plastic stent therapy for treatment of bile leak following total vs subtotal cholecystectomy. Patients and methods  A retrospective cohort of patients with bile leak following cholecystectomy and treated with biliary stent was identified from an institutional database. Primary outcome was defined as cholangiographic resolution of leak at follow-up endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Results  Sixty-one subjects met study inclusion criteria, 27 following total cholecystectomy and 34 following subtotal cholecystectomy. A single plastic biliary stent was placed in 87 % of subjects (53/61), while a fully covered self-expanding metal stent (FCSEMS) was placed in 13 % (8/61). Leak resolution was evident at first follow-up ERCP in 96 % of subjects (26/27) who had undergone total cholecystectomy and 91 % of subjects (31/34) who had undergone subtotal cholecystectomy ( P  = 0.25). Among subjects who had received a plastic stent at index ERCP, leak resolution was evident at first follow-up ERCP in 96 % (23/24) of those who had undergone total cholecystectomy and 90 % (26/29) of those who had undergone subtotal cholecystectomy ( P  = 0.62). Conclusions  High rates of leak resolution can be achieved with placement of a single plastic biliary stent for treatment of post-cholecystectomy bile leaks, including after subtotal cholecystectomy.

Does preoperative MRCP imaging predict risk for conversion to subtotal cholecystectomy in patients with acute cholecystitis?

BACKGROUND

Subtotal cholecystectomy (SC) is a useful procedure for avoiding bile duct injury in patients with difficult gallbladder. However, risk factors for conversion to SC, especially preoperative magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) findings that predict conversion to SC, have not been investigated in detail.

METHODS

A total of 290 patients with acute cholecystitis who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy at our hospital between November 2011 and March 2020 were included. Patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were reviewed, and preoperative clinical factors predicting conversion to SC were investigated.

RESULTS

Forty-three patients underwent SC, whereas the remaining 247 patients underwent total cholecystectomy. An American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of 3 or greater (p = 0.011), surgery on or after 9 days from symptom onset (p < 0.001), obscuration of the gallbladder wall around the neck on MRCP images (p = 0.010) and disruption of the common hepatic duct on MRCP images (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with conversion to SC. Logistic regression analyses revealed that an ASA score of 3 or greater (odds ratio = 2.667, p = 0.020), surgery on or after 9 days from symptom onset (odds ratio = 4.229, p < 0.001) and disruption of the common hepatic duct on MRCP images (odds ratio = 4.478, p = 0.002) were independent predictors for conversion to SC.

CONCLUSIONS

Early surgery yielded a lower risk for conversion to SC. Disruption of the common hepatic duct on preoperative MRCP images is associated with a risk for conversion to SC.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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