Early and late results of excision of choledochal cysts

Surgical outcomes after re-operation for excision of choledochal cyst with delayed biliary complications: A retrospective study on 40 patients

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to review our experience in patients who underwent re-operation for delayed biliary complications after choledochal cyst (CDC) excision.

METHODS

All the patients who underwent re-operation. for delayed biliary complications after CDC excision between August 2007 and July 2020 were included in this retrospective study. The outcomes of these patients were compared with those who underwent primary surgery (CDC excision) at our institution.

RESULTS

Of the total 40 patients with delayed biliary complications, 25 (62.5%) were female. Thirty-seven (92.5%) patients had a history of cholangitis. The median interval between CDC excision and the reoperation was 70 (4-216) months. The median duration of symptoms before reoperation was 12 (2.5-84) months. Re-do hepaticojejunostomy and direct hepaticojejunostomy were performed in 34 and in 6 patients respectively. Median operative time and blood losses were 219 min and 150 ml respectively. The median postoperative stay was 9 days. Postoperative complications developed in 10 (25%) patients. There was no operative mortality. Over a median follow-up of 71 months, a satisfactory outcome was achieved in 86% of patients. Restricture and intrahepatic stones developed in three and two patients respectively. Incidence of type IV cyst, cholangitis before operation, and operative blood loss were significantly more in the re-operative group. Clinical outcomes like the incidence of recurrent cholangitis, re-stricture, and postoperative hospital stay were comparable between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Surgery affords excellent results for majority of the patients with delayed biliary complications after CDC excision. Type IV cysts are more commonly associated with the development of delayed biliary complications.

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.

[Surgical treatment of common bile duct malformations in children]

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

Perforated Choledochal Cyst: Its Clinical Implications in Pediatric Patient

PURPOSE

Perforation of choledochal cyst (CC) is a relatively rare clinical presentation in pediatric populations and difficult to predict preoperatively. We assess the clinical implications by comparing clinical parameters based on a single-center experience between perforated and nonperforated CC to facilitate the appropriate management for future interventions.

METHODS

A total of 92 cases of CC in pediatric patients (aged <18 years) who received surgical management between January 2003 and December 2018 at a Pusan National University Children's Hospital were reviewed. After screening the clinical features of perforated cases, we compared the demographic findings, clinical characteristics, and some laboratory results between the perforated and nonperforated groups.

RESULTS

Perforated CC was identified in 8 patients (8.7%), and nonperforated CC in 84 patients (91.3%). Perforation can be classified into three categories: free perforation of cyst (3 cases), pinpoint perforation of cyst (2 cases), and necrotic change of cyst (3 cases). CC perforation occurred significantly more commonly in patients aged <24 months. Clinically, the perforated group showed significantly higher frequency of fever and higher C-reactive protein (CRP) level during the initial visit.

CONCLUSION

Perforation is more likely to be suspected in patients aged <24 months presenting together with fever and high CRP level in the initial visit. It is also necessary to keep in mind that it indicates not only a possibility of complicated disease status regardless of its association with stones but also a difficulty of applying a minimal invasive procedure and relatively increased length of hospital stay.

Choledochal cyst mimicker-When small bowel length matters

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The diagnosis and treatment of choledochal cysts (and conditions mimicking choledochal cysts) may prove difficult in patients with short bowel syndrome.

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Laparoscopic bile duct excision and reconstruction is a feasible and safe approach to bile duct excision in experienced hands.

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Hepatico-duodenostomy should be considered a safe alternative for biliary reconstruction in individuals with limited material for conduit.

Objective

Due to the risk of malignancy, the established management of choledochal cysts mandates bile duct excision and biliary reconstruction. While the reconstructive procedure of choice for most surgeons has traditionally been hepatico-jejunostomy, this may not be feasible in selected cases due to immobility or inadequacy of the jejunum. The following case will outline the management of a 32-year-old woman with short bowel syndrome, who was diagnosed with choledocholithiasis and a type 1 choledochal cyst.

Method and materials

As a child, our patient suffered midgut volvulus secondary to malrotation which resulted in extensive bowel resection and developed short bowel syndrome. She presented with recurrent bouts of cholangitis. Imaging of her biliary tree confirmed common duct stones extending into the branched hepatic ducts, as well as a fusiform dilatation of the common bile duct, that appeared consistent with a type 1 choledochal cyst. Laparoscopic excision of the cyst with reconstruction using a hepatico-duodenostomy was planned.

Results

The patient underwent successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy, CBD clearance with excision of the bile duct and reconstruction with hepatico-duodenostomy. Recovery was uneventful and she is asymptomatic on subsequent follow-up. Histology is consistent with a markedly dilated bile duct rather than a choledochal cyst.

Conclusions

This case illustrates the dilemma of diagnosis and treatment of a dilated bile duct mimicking a choledochal cyst in the setting of short bowel syndrome and the feasibility of a laparoscopic approach in such cases. Also, it demonstrates that hepatico-duodenostomy may be a safe alternative in cases with limited material for conduit.

The long-term health-related quality of life in patients operated for choledochal cyst

PURPOSE

Late postoperative complications in choledochal cyst (CC) patients are severe problems that affect the quality of life (QOL). We evaluated the postoperative complications and health-related QOL (HRQOL) of CC patients ≥ 18 years of age.

METHODS

From April 1984 to January 2018, 114 CC patients underwent definitive surgery at our institution. Seventy-nine patients reached ≥ 18 years of age. The HRQOL was assessed using the Japanese version of the SF-36v2. Eight health domain (physical functioning, role-physical, body pain, general health, role-emotional, vitality, mental health, and social functioning) scores and three component summary [physical component summary, mental component summary (MCS), and role-social component summary] scores were compared between the patients with and without complications (C [+] vs. C [-]).

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients answered the questionnaires. Twelve patients had postoperative complications. Among the eight domains, the score of general health was significantly lower in C [+] patients than in C [-] patients (p = 0.0488). Among the three component scores, the MCS score in C [+] patients was lower than in C [-] patients without significance (p = 0.0953).

CONCLUSIONS

The HRQOL of CC patients ≥ 18 years of age was mostly acceptable. However, postoperative complications can impair the sense of well-being and affect the mental health.

Choledochal Malformation in Children: Lessons Learned from a Dutch National Study

Introduction

A choledochal malformation (CM) is a rare entity, especially in the Western world. We aimed to determine the incidence of CM in the Netherlands and the outcome of surgery for CM in childhood.

Methods

All pediatric patients who underwent a surgical procedure for type I–IV CM between 1989 and 2014 were entered into the Netherlands Study group on choledochal cyst/malformation. Patients with type V CM were excluded from the present analysis. Symptoms, surgical details, short-term (<30 days) and long-term (>30 days) complications were studied retrospectively.

Results

Between January 1989 and December 2014, 91 pediatric patients underwent surgery for CM at a median age of 2.1 years (0.0–17.7 years). All patients underwent resection of the extrahepatic biliary tree with restoration of the continuity via Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy. Twelve patients (12%) were operated laparoscopically. Short-term complications, mainly biliary leakage and cholangitis, occurred in 20 patients (22%), without significant correlations with weight or age at surgery or surgical approach. Long-term postoperative complications were mainly cholangitis (13%) and anastomotic stricture (4%). Eight patients (9%) required radiological intervention or additional surgery. Surgery before 1 year of age (OR 9.3) and laparoscopic surgery (OR 4.4) were associated with more postoperative long-term complications. We did not observe biliary malignancies during treatment or follow-up.

Conclusion

Surgery for CM carries a significant short- and long-term morbidity. Given the low incidence, we would suggest that (laparoscopic) hepatobiliary surgery for CM should be performed in specialized pediatric surgical centers with a wide experience in laparoscopy and hepatobiliary surgery.

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.

Meta-analysis of risk of developing malignancy in congenital choledochal malformation

BACKGROUND

Choledochal malformations comprise various congenital cystic dilatations of the extrahepatic and/or intrahepatic biliary tree. Choledochal malformation is generally considered a premalignant condition, but reliable data on the risk of malignancy and optimal surgical treatment are lacking. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the prevalence of malignancy in patients with choledochal malformation and to differentiate between subtypes. In addition, the risk of malignancy following cystic drainage versus complete cyst excision was assessed.

METHODS

A systematic review of PubMed and Embase databases was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement. A meta-analysis of the risk of malignancy following cystic drainage versus complete cyst excision was undertaken in line with MOOSE guidelines. Prevalence of malignancy was defined as the rate of biliary cancer before resection, and malignant transformation as new-onset biliary cancer after surgery.

RESULTS

Eighteen observational studies were included, reporting a total of 2904 patients with a median age of 36 years. Of these, 312 in total developed a malignancy (10·7 per cent); the prevalence of malignancy was 7·3 per cent and the rate of malignant transformation was 3·4 per cent. Patients with types I and IV choledochal malformation had an increased risk of malignancy (P = 0·016). Patients who underwent cystic drainage had an increased risk of developing biliary malignancy compared with those who had complete cyst excision, with an odds ratio of 3·97 (95 per cent c.i. 2·40 to 6·55).

CONCLUSION

The risk of developing malignancy among patients with choledochal malformation was almost 11 per cent. The malignancy risk following cystic drainage surgery was four times higher than that after complete cyst excision. Complete surgical resection is recommended in patients with choledochal malformation.

Comparison of laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy and open hepaticojejunostomy. Can stenosis of the hilar hepatic duct affect postoperative outcome?

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to compare laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy (LHJ) and open hepaticojejunostomy (OHJ) for choledochal cyst associated with hilar hepatic duct stenosis (HHDS).

METHODS

Data collection was prospective for LHJ cases from 2009 and retrospective for OHJ cases from 2003 to 2008. Data were compared with respect to HHDS. HHDS was incised longitudinally as required during hilar hepatic ductoplasty.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight subjects were studied (LHJ: n = 27, 4 boys, 23 girls; OHJ: n = 31; 6 boys, 25 girls). HHDS was present in 10 LHJ cases and 10 OHJ cases. Todani classification of choledochal cyst in LHJ patients was type 1A (n = 16) and type 4A (n = 11), and in OHJ patients, it was type 1A (n = 19) and type 4A (n = 12). There were significant differences between LHJ and OHJ with regard to mean operative time (386 vs 341 min), mean blood loss (5.9 vs 18.4 mL), recommencement of enteral feeding (3.9 vs 6.4 days), and hospital stay (11.7 vs 15.5 days) (all P < 0.05). Hepatic ductoplasty was performed in 23 LHJ patients and in 21 OHJ patients. There were no intraoperative complications and no conversions to OHJ. There were no significant differences between LHJ and OHJ, regardless of the presence of HHDS, for postoperative complications, which included minor bile leakage, anastomotic stricture, and intestinal obstruction.

CONCLUSION

LHJ is as effective as OHJ for the treatment of choledochal cysts irrespective of the presence of HHDS and the need for hepatic ductoplasty.

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

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

Japanese clinical practice guidelines for congenital biliary dilatation

Until now, there have been no practical clinical guidelines for congenital biliary dilatation (CBD). In this review article, the Japanese Study Group on Congenital Biliary Dilatation (JSCBD) propose to establish clinical practice guidelines for CBD. Because the evidence-based literature is relatively small, we decided to create guidelines based on the consensus of experts, using the medical literature for reference. A total of 20 clinical questions (CQs) were considered by the members of the editorial committee responsible for the guidelines. The CQs included the distinct aspects of CBD: (1) Concepts and Pathology (three CQs); (2) Diagnosis (six CQs); (3) Pancreaticobiliary Complications (three CQs); Treatments and Prognosis (eight CQs). Each statements and comments for CQs were made by the guidelines committee members. CQs were finally approved after review by members of the editorial committee and the guidelines evaluation board of CBD. These guidelines were created to provide assistance in the clinical practice of CBD management; their contents focus on clinical utility, and they include general information on CBD to make this disease more widely recognized.

Treatment of choledochal cyst in a pediatric population. A single institution experience of 15-years. Case series

Background

Choledochal cyst (CC) is a rare congenital anomaly of the bile duct that approximately 75% of the patients are diagnosed in childhood. Without a standardized surgical procedure for the biliary reconstruction, we present our experience over the last 15 years and show the differences between the biliary reconstructions techniques in our population.

Methods

We did a retrospective hospital archive search for patients admitted to the pediatric surgery department with the diagnosis of a choledochal cyst from January 2000 to June 2015.

Results

We found 15 patients, of which, 1 was excluded because of missing data from the hospital record. Of the remaining 14, eight had hepaticojejunal (HY) anastomosis in Roux-en-Y, with a 25% rate of complications; six had hepatoduodenal (HD) anastomosis with a rate of complications of 16.6%. The average hospital length of stay in the group of HD vs. HY was 14 ± 1.6-days vs. 19 ± 8.2-days respectively.

Discussion

There are no standardized surgical reconstruction techniques of the biliary tract after the CC excision, there is literature that supports the biliary reconstruction with an HY and an HD without a distinct advantage over one or the other. Conclusion: In our series HD anastomosis represents a safe procedure with fewer complications than HY.

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Choledochal cyst is a rare disease either in pediatrics or adults.

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In the most common type of CC, the surgical excision is the gold standard.

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The reconstruction of the biliary tract in the case of CC is not standardized.

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We present the outcome of our series of patients that either HY or HD were performed.

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.

Increasing occurrence of choledochal malformations in children: a single-center 37-year experience from Finland

OBJECTIVE

Few reports on choledochal malformations (CMs) in European populations exist.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical records of pediatric CM patients managed in our nationwide referral center for pediatric hepatobiliary surgery between 1976 and 2013 (n = 38; 71% females) were reviewed.

RESULTS

Over follow-up time, the relative proportion of fusiform CMs increased significantly (p = 0.007) and the estimated total incidence rose from 1:128,000 to 1:38,000 (p = 0.017). Cystic CMs (42%) presented at younger age than fusiform CMs (47%) (0.8 vs. 4.6 years, p = 0.001). Two-thirds had abdominal pain and half were cholestatic at presentation. Pancreatitis had occurred in 16%. In addition to ultrasound, 71% underwent magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and 39% underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Median CM dilatation was 15 (10-28) mm and a 12 (9-13) mm long common pancreaticobiliary channel was confirmed in 61%, increasingly during recent years. Intrahepatic biliary tree was dilated in 19%, whereas main ducts were dilated in 50%. Apart from two operated in the 1970s and one with choledochocele, patients underwent resection of extrahepatic bile ducts with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy at age of 4.2 (0.8-9.2) years. Postoperative bile leakage and hemorrhage required reoperations in two. At last follow-up 4.8 (1.3-13.2) years postoperatively, none had dilated intrahepatic biliary ducts or elevated plasma bilirubin (5 [3-7] µmol/l). Single cholangitis episodes had occurred in two, whereas others were asymptomatic.

CONCLUSION

CM incidence has increased significantly in Finland, being currently over threefold higher than previous estimates in the Western world would suggest. Removal of the extrahepatic biliary tree with hepaticojejunostomy for type I and IV CMs yielded excellent results.

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

Comparison of therapeutic effects of laparoscopic and open operation for congenital choledochal cysts in adults

Background. Laparoscopic cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy for treating congenital choledochal cysts (CCCs) have proved to be efficacious in children. Its safety and efficacy in adult patients remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the laparoscopic procedure was feasible and safe in adult patients. Methods. We reviewed 35 patients who underwent laparoscopic operation (laparoscopic group) and 39 patients who underwent an open procedure (open group). The operative time, intraoperative blood loss, time until bowel motion recovery, duration of drainage, postoperative stay, time until resumption of diet, postoperative complications, and perioperative laboratory values were recorded and analyzed in both groups. Results. The operative time was longer in the laparoscopic group and decreased significantly with accumulating surgical experience (P < 0.01). The mean intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (P < 0.01). The time until bowel peristalsis recovery, time until resumption of diet, abdominal drainage, and postoperative stay were significantly shorter in the laparoscopic group (P < 0.01). The postoperative complication rate was not higher in the laparoscopic group than in the open group (P > 0.05). Conclusions. Laparoscopic cyst excision and hepaticojejunostomy are a feasible, effective, and safe method for treating CCCs in adult patients.

Systemerkrankungen

Systemerkrankungen als Ursache einer Lebererkrankung sind häufig, ohne dass man genaue Zahlen angeben kann. Die verschiedenen Grunderkrankungen sind für sich betrachtet zwar selten, nur dadurch, dass viele Erkrankungen in Betracht gezogen werden müssen, ergibt sich eine relative Häufung. Durch Fortschritte auf dem Gebiet der molekularbiologischen Diagnostik insbesondere bei den Stoffwechselerkrankungen lassen sich heute bereits viele der in Frage kommenden Grunderkrankungen eindeutig nachweisen. Allerdings ist bei keiner der Erkrankungen ein hundertprozentiger molekularbiologischer Nachweis möglich. Damit ergibt sich eine sichere Diagnose nur bei einem positiven Nachweis. Bei fehlendem Nachweis einer bisher bekannten für die Erkrankung spezifischen Mutation bleibt die Zuordnung entweder enzymatischen Tests oder klinischer Diagnose vorbehalten. Insbesondere bei der Manifestation als akutes Leberversagen ist die für die Diagnosesicherung erforderliche Zeit damit oft nicht vorhanden.

Hepaticoduodenostomy for Biliary Reconstruction After Surgical Resection of Choledochal Cyst: a 25-Year Experience

We reviewed our experience of hepaticoduodenostomy done for choledochal cyst from 1982 to 2007 at our center. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of hepaticoduodenostomy as a mode of biliary reconstruction after surgical resection of choledochal cyst, to look for any complications associated with hepaticoduodenostomy, with review of the literature. A total of 56 patients underwent hepaticoduodenostomy after surgical resection of choledochal cyst, of which 54 patients underwent primary cyst excision with hepaticoduodenostomy and 2 patients underwent redo surgery (hepaticoduodenostomy). Most of the patients had an uneventful postoperative recovery. Early complications were biliary leak in three patients which subsided on conservative treatment. Long-term complication was seen in only one patient who developed anastomotic stricture 18 years after primary resection of choledochal cyst and hepaticoduodenostomy. Hepaticoduodenostomy is a relatively safe procedure with very low complication rates. It requires a single anastomosis and is simple to perform.

Hepatic lobectomy and mucosectomy of intrahepatic cyst for type IV-A choledochal cyst

OBJECTIVE

Excision of extrahepatic cyst with wide biliary-enteric anastomosis is the treatment of choice in choledochal cyst. The diseased mucosa of the residual cyst may be the cause for postoperative complications. Mucosectomy of the cyst wall may prevent such complications in type IV-A choledochal cyst.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Five cases (male:female, 3:2) of type IV-A choledochal cyst, aged between 15 and 120 months, are presented. The intrahepatic cyst was confined to only the left lobe in 1 patient and the left and part of the right lobe in 4 patients. Excision of the extrahepatic cyst, left hemihepatectomy, mucosectomy of the residual intrahepatic cyst wall, and wide hepaticojejunostomy were done.

RESULTS

Median hospital stay was 20 days. Postoperative biliary leak in 1 patient stopped spontaneously after 3 weeks. Postoperative MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography) scan in 1 patient showed shrinkage of intrahepatic residual cyst and good biliary drainage. Liver function tests at 3 months, 6 months, and at yearly intervals were within reference range in all patients. Cholangitis, hepatolithiasis, or malignancy was not noted in any of the patients. Median follow-up period was 36 months.

CONCLUSION

Excision of the diseased mucosa from residual intrahepatic cyst wall may prevent long-term complications in patients with type IV-A choledochal cyst.

Biliary cysts: Etiology, diagnosis and management

Biliary cysts (BC) are rare dilatations of different parts of a biliary tract. They account for approximately 1% of all benign biliary diseases. BC occur the most frequently in Asian and female populations. They are an important problem for pediatricians, gastroenterologists, radiologists and surgeons. Clinical presentation and management depend on the BC type. Cholangiocarcinoma is the most serious and dangerous BC complication. The other complications associated with BC involve cholelithiasis and hepatolithiasis, cholangitis, acute and chronic pancreatitis, portal hypertension, liver fibrosis and secondary liver cirrhosis and spontaneous cyst perforation. Different BC classifications have been described in the literature. Todani classification dividing BC into five types is the most useful in clinical practice. The early diagnosis and proper treatment are very important, because BC are associated with a risk of carcinogenesis. A malignancy risk increases with the age. Radiological investigations (ultrasonography, computed tomography, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography) play an important role in BC diagnostics. Currently, prenatal diagnosis using ultrasonography is possible. It allows to differentiate biliary disorders in fetals and to perform the early surgical treatment that improves results. In most patients, total cyst excision with Roux-Y hepaticojejunostomy is the treatment of choice. Surgical treatment of BC is associated with high success rate and low morbidity and mortality. The early treatment is associated with a lower number of complications. Patients following BC surgery require permanent and careful postoperative observation using laboratory and imaging investigations because of possibility of biliary anastomosis stricture and biliary cancer in tissue remnant.

Japanese clinical practice guidelines for pancreaticobiliary maljunction

There have been no clinical guidelines for the management of pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM). The Japanese Study Group on Pancreaticobiliary Maljunction (JSPBM) has proposed to establish clinical practice guidelines on how to deal with PBM, with the support of the Japan Biliary Association (JBA). Because the body of evidence-based literature is relatively small, we decided to create guidelines based on the consensus of experts, using the medical literature for reference. A total of 46 clinical questions (CQs) were considered by the members of the editorial committee responsible for the guidelines. The CQs covered distinct aspects of PBM: (1) Concepts and Pathophysiology (10 CQs); (2) Diagnosis (10 CQs); (3) Pancreatobiliary complications (9 CQs); and (4) Treatments and prognosis (17 CQs). Statements and comments for each CQ were prepared by the guidelines committee members and collaborating partners. The CQs were completed after review by members of the editorial committee, meetings of this committee, public comments on the homepages of the JSPBM and the JBA, public hearings, and assessment and approval by the guidelines evaluation board. PBM includes cases where the bile duct is dilated (PBM with biliary dilatation) and those in which it is not (PBM without biliary dilatation). In these guidelines, PBM with biliary dilatation is defined as being identical to congenital biliary dilatation of Todani type I (except for type Ib) and type IV-A, both of which are accompanied by PBM in almost all cases. These guidelines are created to provide assistance in the clinical practice of PBM management; their contents focus on clinical utility, and they include general information on PBM to make this disease more widely recognized.

Choledochoceles: are they choledochal cysts?

The classification of choledochoceles as a type of choledochal cyst stems from the 1959 article by Alonso-Lej and colleagues describing 94 choledochal cysts, only 4 of which were choledochoceles. Even then, Alonso-Lej questioned the propriety of including the choledochocele, stating it was unclear "as to whether or not it originates from the same etiologic factors [as other choledochal cysts]". In 1971, Trout and Longmire also questioned the validity of classifying choledochoceles as choledochal cysts, noting the anatomic position article and variant mucosa of the choledochocele. Wearn and Wiot, in an article titled "Choledochocele: not a form of choledochal cyst", cite the differences in clinical presentation, demographics, and histology as reasons why choledochoceles represent separate entities from choledochal cysts. Over the ensuing decades, numerous investigators have questioned the legitimacy of classifying choledochoceles as choledochal cysts. In our recent series (the only one to our knowledge directly comparing patients with choledochocele and other [type I, II, IV, and V] choledochal cysts), patients with choledochoceles differed from patients with choledochal cysts in their age, gender, presenting symptoms, history of previous cholecystectomy, pancreatobiliary ductal anatomy, management, and most importantly, propensity to developing biliary malignancy. Based on the available cases of choledochoceles found in the literature, combined with the recent series from our institution, we conclude that choledochoceles seem to be distinct entities from choledochal cysts.

Perforation: a rare complication of choledochal cysts in children

PURPOSE

Spontaneous perforation is a rare complication of choledochal cyst (CDC) which is difficult to diagnose due to its nonspecific clinical presentation. The surgical treatment can be either single-staged cyst excision or two-staged procedure with an initial drainage followed by delayed cyst excision. Both biliary duct obstruction and irritation due to refluxed pancreatic juice have been proposed as possible aetiology. In this report, we describe six cases of CDC perforation in hope to have a better understanding on the clinical features and cause of this complication.

METHODS

Medical records of six patients whose diagnoses of perforated CDC were confirmed with intra-operative findings were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical data, investigation results and post-operative outcomes were analysed.

RESULTS

Vomiting and abdominal pain were the most common complaints. Few patients present with clinical jaundice. Overt sign of peritonitis was absent. Both single-staged and two-staged approach offered satisfactory outcome.

CONCLUSION

Hyperbilirubinaemia and remote free intra-peritoneal fluid allude the diagnosis of perforated CDC. When presenting with cholangitis, it warrants timely surgical intervention to prevent perforation. Single-staged or two-staged surgical approach would depend on stability of patient and surgical expertise available. Reversible dilatation of intra-hepatic duct suggests that increased intra-ductal pressure is a contributing factor to the perforation.

Choledochal cyst: A review of 79 cases and the role of hepaticodochoduodenostomy

AIM

To analyze our experience of choledochal cysts. The results of complete excision of cyst and hepaticodochoduodenostomy have been analyzed in particular.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

PERIOD OF STUDY

January 1993 to August 2010. Apart from basic investigations, we did ultrasonography (USG) of abdomen, contrast-enhanced computerized axial tomography scan (CECT), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), operative cholangiogram, hepatic isotope scan (HIDA), magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatogram (MRCP) and choledochoscopy. The patients were divided into six groups according to the management done and the results analyzed.

RESULTS

The total number of cases was 79 (Male : Female = 26 : 53). The mean age of presentationwas 5.18 years. The most common mode of presentation was abdominal pain in 86% cases. Types of cysts - Type I: 63; Type IV: 12; Forme fruste: 1; Caroli's disease: 1; Cyst with atresia in the lower end of common bile duct: 2. Two patients of group A (cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy) had recurrent pain and cholangitis. One patient required revision for stricture. In group E (n=53) (excision of cyst and hepaticodochoduodenostomy), three patients developed occasional epigastric pain and they responded to omeprazole. One patient developed anastomotic stricture and was lost to follow up. One patient of cyst with biliary atresia with biliary cirrhosis died.

CONCLUSIONS

In choledochal cyst, complete excision of cyst and good bilioenteric anastomosis with wide stoma should be done. Hepaticodochoduodenostomy with wide stoma is a simple, quick procedure with preservation of normal anatomy and physiology and minimum complications. It also avoids multiple intestinal anastomoses and so should be the preferred approach.

Hepaticoduodenostomy vs hepaticojejunostomy for reconstruction after resection of choledochal cyst

PURPOSE

Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) is currently the favored reconstructive procedure after resection of choledochal cysts. Hepaticoduodenostomy (HD) has been argued to be more physiologically and technically easier but is feared to have associated complications. Here we compare outcomes of the 2 procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review identified 59 patients who underwent choledochal cyst resection within our institution from 1999 to 2009. Demographic and outcome data were compared using t tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and Pearson χ(2) tests.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients underwent repair of choledochal cyst. Biliary continuity was restored by HD in 39 (66%) and by HJ in 20 (34%). Open HD patients required less total operative time than HJ patients (3.9 vs 5.1 hours, P = .013), tolerated a diet faster (4.8 days compared with 6.1 days, P = .08), and had a shorter hospital stay (7.05 days for HD vs 9.05 days for HJ, P = .12). Complications were more common in HJ (HD = 7.6%, HJ = 20%, P = .21). Three patients required reoperation after HJ, but only one patient required reoperation after HD for a stricture (HD = 2.5%, HJ = 20%, P = .037).

CONCLUSIONS

In this series, HD required less operative time, allowed faster recovery of bowel function, and produced fewer complications requiring reoperation.

Choledochal cysts: differences between pediatric and adult patients

Choledochal cysts in children and adults are believed to be different, but direct comparison between them is lacking in the literature. This study was aimed to identify the clinicopathological differences between 42 children and 59 adults with choledochal cyst treated by same surgeons at the Cathay General Hospital. The mean follow-up period was 8.9 years. The result showed that the female-to-male ratios were 1.5:1 in pediatric patients and 4.9:1 in adult patients. Compared with adults with choledochal cyst, the pediatric patients presented more abdominal mass (52.4% vs 21.2%, P = 0.002) and less abdominal pain (76.2% vs. 98.0%, P = 0.002), are more frequently associated with anomalous pancreaticobiliary ductal union (85.7% vs. 59.6%, P = 0.005) and sudden severe stenosis of terminal choledochus (76.2% vs. 42.3%, P = 0.001), are less commonly associated with choledocholithiasis, are not associated with malignant transformation (0% vs 21.2%), and have fewer perioperative and long-term complications. Nevertheless, patients who received total excision had fewer surgical complications in both groups. This result shows that choledochal cysts in pediatric and adult patients are different in clinicopathological manifestations, prognosis, and the underlying abnormalities of the pancreaticobiliary system, suggesting that patients with choledochal cyst should be managed according to these differences.

Laparoscopic repair for choledochal cyst: lessons learned from 190 cases

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to report the technical details, early outcomes, and lessons learned from laparoscopic repair of 190 cases of choledochal cyst.

METHOD

The operation was performed using 4 ports. The cystic duct was identified and divided. The liver was elevated by 2 stay-sutures: one on the round ligament and the other on the distal cystic duct. The choledochal cyst was isolated and removed completely, and then biliary-digestive continuity was reestablished.

RESULTS

From January 2007 to April 2009, 190 patients were operated on. There were 144 girls and 46 boys. Ages ranged from 2 months to 16 years (mean, 46.9 +/- 29.3 months). Cyst diameter ranged from 10 to 184 mm. A total of 106 patients were classified as Todani type I cysts, and 84 were type IV. Cystic excision and hepaticoduodenostomy were performed in 133 patients and hepaticojejunostomy in 57 patients. The operating time varied from 70 to 505 minutes (mean, 186 minutes). Conversion to open surgery was required in 2 patients. Intraoperative blood transfusion was required in 4 patients. There were no perioperative deaths. Postoperative anastomotic leakage occurred in 7 patients, resolving spontaneously in 6 and requiring a second operation in 1. Postoperative hospital stay ranged from 5 to 27 days (mean, 7.2 +/- 3.3 days). Follow-up occurred between 1 and 24 months postdischarge (mean, 9 +/- 2.2 months) and was obtained in 161 patients (84.7%). Of these patients, cholangitis occurred in 4 patients (2.4%).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic repair is a safe and effective procedure for choledochal cyst.

Intraoperative endoscopy during choledochal cyst excision: extended long-term follow-up compared with recent cases

INTRODUCTION

We routinely perform intraoperative endoscopy (IOE) of the intrahepatic bile duct (IHBD) and intrapancreatic bile duct (IPBD) with a pediatric cystoscope during excision of choledochal cyst (CC). Here we compare extended long-term follow-up patients with a series of recent cases.

METHODS

We compared 25 CC patients treated over the past 5 years (group 1) with 69 CC patients treated between 1986 and 1998 and followed up for more than 10 years (group 2), focusing on stone formation.

RESULTS

In group 1 (mean follow-up, 2.6 years) IOE identified IHBD debris in 7 (28%) of 25 and IPBD protein plugs in 9 (36%) of 25. In group 2 (mean follow-up, 14.6 years) IOE identified IHBD debris in 11 (16%) of 69 and IPBD protein plugs in 17 (25%) of 69. There was no relation between type of CC and incidence of IHBD debris or IPBD protein plugs. The incidence of postoperative stones to date is 0% in group 1 and 2.9% in group 2, rates far lower than those reported in the literature.

CONCLUSIONS

We attribute our lower incidence of stones directly to IOE and recommend that it be performed routinely during cyst excision. It is simple, is effective, and improves outcome.

Laparoscopic complete cyst excision and hepaticoduodenostomy for choledochal cyst: early results in 74 cases

OBJECTIVE

To report the technical details and early outcomes of complete laparoscopic cyst excision and hepaticoduodenostomy for choledochal cyst.

METHODS

The operation was performed using four ports. The cystic duct was identified and divided. The liver was elevated by two stay sutures: one on the round ligament, and the other on the distal cystic duct. The choledochalcyst was isolated and removed completely and the duodenum was mobilized. Hepaticoduodenostomy was constructed 2 cm distal to the pylorus using two running sutures with 5-0 polydioxane sutures.

RESULTS

From January to December 2007, 74 patients were operated. There were 59 girls and 15 boys. Ages ranged from 2.5 months to 16 years old. The diameter of the cyst ranged from 10 mm to 184 mm. The operating time ranged from 90 minutes to 340 minutes (mean: 186 minutes). Conversion to open surgery was required in one patient. Blood transfusion was required in four patients. Postoperative anastomotic leakage occurred in three patients, resolving spontaneously in two patients and requiring a second operation in the third.Postoperative hospital stay ranged from 4 days to 21 days (average: 6.6 days). Follow-up from 3 months to 12 months was obtained in 56 patients (75.5%). Of these patients, cholangitis occurred in three patients (5.3%) and gastritis due to bilious reflux in eight patients (14.3%).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic complete cyst excision and hepaticoduodenostomy is a safe and physiologic procedure for choledochal cyst.

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

BACKGROUND

Choledochal cyst is usually diagnosed in childhood. Early treatment can prevent further complication. We report on our series of patients over the past 30 years.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed on all pediatric patients who presented with choledochal cyst from January 1978 to December 2008. The main outcome measures recorded were the clinical presentation, management, and long-term outcome of the patients.

RESULTS

Eighty-three patients presented to us during the caption period with a mean age at diagnosis of 45 months (0 month to 16 years). Diagnoses were made antenatally in 15 patients. The most common symptoms were abdominal pain (n = 39) and jaundice (n = 35). Seventy-five patients had surgery, in which 72 patients had resection of the cyst and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy. Ten were performed by laparoscopic means. We categorized the cysts based on the Todani classification. There was no mortality. No malignant change was documented. For those 4 who had Caroli disease, 2 underwent liver transplantation and 2 had hepatectomy. Overall early complication rate was 5.3% (4/75).

CONCLUSIONS

Complete excision of cyst with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy is the treatment of choice, and the late result is good. Laparoscopic surgery is feasible. Long-term follow-up is necessary. There is no evidence to suggest that some type IV cysts are the result of disease progression from type I cysts.

Chemopreventative effect of an inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, ONO-1714, on inflammation-associated biliary carcinogenesis in hamsters

The present study was designed to investigate whether an inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-specific inhibitor, ONO-1714 [(1S, 5S, 6R, 7R)-7-chloro-3-imino-5-methyl-2-azabicyclo[4.1.0] heptane], could prevent inflammation-associated biliary carcinogenesis in bilioenterostomized hamsters. Syrian golden hamsters underwent choledochojejunostomy and then received subcutaneous injections of the chemical carcinogen N-nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl)amine every 2 weeks at a dose of 10 mg/kg body wt, starting 4 weeks after surgery and continuing for 18 weeks. The hamsters were divided into two groups according to their oral intake of either a standard pelleted diet containing ONO-1714 at 100 p.p.m. for 18 weeks (ONO group, n = 15) or an ordinary diet alone (control group, n = 15). The animals were killed 22 weeks after surgery, and the development of biliary tumors was examined histologically. The presence and degree of cholangitis, cell kinetic status of the biliary epithelium and iNOS expression were evaluated. Intrahepatic biliary adenomas developed in all control animals, whereas they developed in only seven (47%) hamsters treated with ONO-1714 (P < 0.05). Intrahepatic biliary carcinomas were present in 13 (87%) hamsters in the control group and in only 6 (40%) hamsters in the ONO groups (P < 0.05). Histological and immunohistochemical examinations demonstrated a significant decrease in the degree of cholangitis, biliary epithelial cell kinetics and the expression of iNOS in the biliary epithelium in the ONO group in comparison with the control (P < 0.05). These results indicate that ONO-1714 represses N-nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl)amine-induced biliary carcinogenesis in bilioenterostomized hamsters and inhibits iNOS expression in the biliary epithelium. ONO-1714 may therefore be a promising agent for the prevention of biliary carcinoma in various inflammation-associated biliary disorders.

Chylous ascites after excision of a choledochal cyst in a child

We report a case of chylous ascites developing 2 weeks after excision of a choledochal cyst with a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy. Despite the failure of the initial attempts to resolve the chylous ascites by fasting, subsequently, we successfully treated the patient's chylous ascites with intravenous somatostatin. No obvious adverse side effects occurred during the use of somatostatin. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of chylous ascites after choledochal cyst excision in children, which was successfully treated with somatostatin. Somatostatin may be considered as a therapeutic option of managing pediatric postoperative chylous ascites.

Laparoscopic excision of choledochal cysts in children: an intermediate-term report

PURPOSE

To assess the intermediate-term result of the use of the minimally invasive technique in the treatment of choledochal cysts in children.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of all cases of choledochal cyst treated in the tertiary referral centre. The surgical technique is described and all the medical records were reviewed to assess the intraoperative and postoperative complications and follow-up problems.

RESULTS

From October 2000 to April 2008, laparoscopic excision and reconstruction were attempted in 37 patients. Laparoscopic surgery was successfully performed in 34. Conversion was required in three patients due to oozing on cyst dissection (two) and bleeding from small bowel mesentry (one) during the early part of the series. Postoperative complications were observed in 15 patients including subhepatic collection (6), bile leakage (3), minor wound infection (4) and prolonged ileus (2). At a mean follow-up of 4.2 years, four patients developed surgical complications including intrahepatic ductal strictures in a type IV cyst (one), stump pancreatitis (one), terminal ileal obstruction from internal herniation (one) and cholangitis (one). The cosmetic result was good in all patients.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that laparoscopic excision and reconstruction can be safely performed in children with a choledochal cyst with satisfactory intermediate-term results.

Estimation of postoperative fat absorption using the 13C mixed-triglyceride breath test in children with choledochal cyst

No previous studies have focused on postoperative fat malabsorption in children with choledochal cyst (CC) who undergo cyst excision and Roux-en-Y (RY) hepatico-jejunostomy (HJ), a combination of procedures that can lead to the non-physiological mixture of food and bile juice. To examine the effect of RYHJ with cholecystectomy on the fat absorption ability of children with CC, we estimated postoperative fat-absorption ability using the carbon 13-labeled mixed triglyceride (13C-MTG) breath test. Twelve postoperative children with CC and 12 normal control children were administered 13C-MTG orally and asked to give breath samples at six time points: once before the 13C-MTG ingestion and at five 60-min intervals postingestion. Fecal chymotrypsin activity and fecal fat excretion were also measured. The delta value of breath 13CO2 at 3, 4, and 5 h after administration and the 5-h cumulative breath 13CO2 were significantly lower in the CC children than in the controls. There were no significant differences in the fecal chymotrypsin activity or fecal fat excretion of the two groups. Conclusion. Occult fat malabsorption occurs in patients with CC after RYHJ, even in the absence of clinical symptoms or abnormal laboratory data.

Choledochal cyst disease in children and adults: a 30-year single-institution experience

BACKGROUND

The reported incidence of choledochal cyst (CC) disease varies greatly based on geography. Most large series on CC originate from East Asia. So our understanding of the presentation and natural history of CC disease in western societies is less well characterized. Recognition and surgical treatment are important because of the significant longterm risks of developing cholangiocarcinoma. We report here the largest single-institution western experience with CC disease.

STUDY DESIGN

Ninety-two patients with CC disease who were seen at our institution between 1976 and 2006 were included in this study. Potential differences between children and adults (defined as 16 years old or older) were specifically evaluated.

RESULTS

There were 19 children and 73 adults; 90% were girls/women with type I cysts. Adults were more likely to present with abdominal pain (97% versus 63%, p < 0.001), and children were more likely to present with jaundice (71% versus 25%, p=0.001). Surgical management most commonly involved cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy reconstruction. Four adults (three with cholangiocarcinoma and one with gall bladder cancer) and one child (with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma) had malignancies associated with their CC at the time of excision. Two patients (with type IV and type V disease) developed cholangiocarcinoma after surgical management. Another patient died of pancreatic adenocarcinoma 21 years after excision of her type I cyst. There was no operative or hospital mortality, and no patient who underwent complete cyst excision developed cholangiocarcinoma during a mean followup of 10 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Western CC disease has a similar demographic profile as that seen in Asia. CCs are more frequently found in adults and girls/women and are associated with a longterm risk of developing cholangiocarcinoma. Presentation differs between adults and children. After complete cyst excision, no patients developed cholangiocarcinoma.

Chemopreventative effect of hochu-ekki-to (TJ-41) on chemically induced biliary carcinogenesis in hamsters

BACKGROUND

Bilioenterostomy is a common surgical technique that is widely used. Recently, clinical studies have revealed that biliary carcinomas can occur after bilioenterostomy. The present study was designed to evaluate whether hochu-ekki-to (TJ-41), a Japanese herbal drug, could prevent chemically induced biliary carcinomas in bilioenterostomized hamsters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Syrian golden hamsters were subjected to choledochojejunostomy and then received subcutaneous injections of N-nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl) amine every 2 weeks at a dose of 10 mg/kg. N-nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl) amine administration was started 4 weeks after surgery. The animals were simultaneously p.o. administered TJ-41 in water every day at a dose of 1000 mg/kg (TJ-41 group). The control hamsters were administered water alone. The hamsters were sacrificed 22 weeks after surgery, and the development of biliary carcinomas, the presence and degree of cholangitis, and the cell kinetic status of the biliary epithelium were evaluated histologically.

RESULTS

Intrahepatic bile duct carcinomas developed in 15/17 (88%) hamsters in the control group and in only 8/17 (47%) hamsters in the TJ-41 group (P < 0.05). The degree of cholangitis was not different between the two groups. However, the proliferating cell nuclear antigen labeling index of the biliary epithelium in the TJ-41 group (6.46%) was significantly lower than the controls (9.67%) (P < 0.05). These findings indicated that TJ-41 reduced accelerated biliary epithelial cell kinetics after bilioenterostomy, resulting in the prevention of carcinogenesis.

CONCLUSION

TJ-41 has a preventive effect on chemically induced carcinoma of the biliary tract after bilioenterostomy.

Hepaticojejunostomy and intrahepatic cystojejunostomy for type IV-A choledochal cyst

BACKGROUND

The incidence of choledochal cyst with intrahepatic involvement (Todani's type IV-A cyst) is considerably high. Dilatation of the intrahepatic bile duct is frequently observed around the hepatic hilum, occasionally in the umbilical portion, and rarely in the more upstream intrahepatic bile duct, associated with or without downstream stricture. We recently encountered 2 children with type IV-A cyst associated with upstream intrahepatic ductal dilatation; one with a cystic dilatation of the medial branch arising from the left hepatic duct and another with a cyst of the medial branch arising from the anterior hepatic duct.

METHODS

After excision of the extrahepatic bile duct cyst at the hilum and making a large fenestration of the intrahepatic duct cyst, hepaticojejunostomy and intrahepatic cystojejunostomy were performed using a Roux-en-Y jejunal loop in both children.

RESULTS

Postoperatively, both intrahepatic cysts were remarkably reduced in size, and recurrent bouts of abdominal pain did not occur for up to 4 or 5 years.

CONCLUSION

Hepaticojejunostomy at the hepatic hilum, combined with intrahepatic cystojejunostomy, appears to be a recommendable procedure for an upstream intrahepatic ductal cyst of type IV-A, preventing postoperative cholangitis owing to bile stone formation.

Laparoscopic Leak-Free Technique for the Treatment of Choledochal Cysts

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this report was to present our experience with a modified surgical technique designed for the treatment of choledochal cysts (CC) in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between June 2004 and February 2005, we operated on 6 patients with a diagnosis of type I CC by means of a "leak-free" technique that consists of a transient complete sealing of the hepatic duct for the duration of the dissection, and a single- or double laparoscopic running suture to build the end-to-side hepatico-jejuno anastomosis. There were 4 females and 2 males, whose age ranged between 45 days and 7 years (median, 45 months). All cases were performed with three trocars plus the scope, and two or three percutaneous stay-stitches to retract the liver. The end-to-side hepatico-jejuno anastomoses were done with 5.0 or 6.0 PDS. We left no drains.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 335 minutes, and mean postoperative time to oral feeding was 44 hours. The mean hospital stay was 6 days (range, 5-10). No postoperative biliary leak was observed. A cosmetic result was excellent in all patients. In the follow-up (mean, 12 months), all patients were asymptomatic, had no intrahepatic biliary tree dilation, and had normal liver function tests.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results of our series, we think that the laparoscopic approach is suitable for these patients, but some surgical details should be followed to lower the complication rate. First, a temporary closure of the hepatic duct to prevent bile spillage during the dissection is important for keeping the area clean and thus reducing the operative time. Second, the use of a running suture for the hepatico-jejunostomy, even though it may be technically challenging, should always be attempted to avoid postoperative bile leaks in these high-flow anastomoses.

Wide hilar hepaticojejunostomy: the optimum method of reconstruction after choledochal cyst excision

Standard reconstruction after choledochal cyst excision is by Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy to the common hepatic duct. Long-term follow up studies have shown a 10% incidence of late complications, including anastomotic stricture. By extending the bilio-enteric anastomosis along the left hepatic duct, a wide hilar bilio-enteric anastomosis is created which may help to minimize late anastomotic complications. Forty-one consecutive patients (24 girls, 18 infants) with a median age of 2.3 years (range 44 days to 15.6 years) and median weight 11.5 kg (range 2.1-59 kg) underwent radical choledochal cyst excision with a wide hilar hepaticojejunostomy. Thirty-eight were followed-up both clinically and by ultrasound scan and biochemical liver function tests for a median of 2.7 years (range 0.1-12.5 years). The median width of the hilar hepaticojejunostomy was 8 mm (range 6-25 mm) in 18 infants, and 15 mm (range 10-25 mm) in 22 older children. In one patient it was not measured. Only one surgical complication occurred--a self-limiting bile leak which settled spontaneously. Median postoperative stay was 6 days (range 5-21 days). No patient has had an episode of cholangitis or adhesive small bowel obstruction to date. Postoperative biochemical liver function tests have remained normal in all but one child (with pre-existing biliary cirrhosis). After radical resection of a choledochal cyst, a wide hilar hepaticojejunostomy is a, safe, effective and durable reconstructive technique that can be performed at any age and may help to minimize the long-term risk of complications.

Endoscopic resection of intrahepatic septal stenosis: minimally invasive approach to manage hepatolithiasis after choledochal cyst excision

Intrahepatic calculi frequently form after excision of a choledochal cyst. Biliary stenosis is one of the major causative factors. When stenoses exist in the peripheral intrahepatic duct, hepatectomy is necessary. A new endoscopic management was performed in a 6-year-old girl, who had intrahepatic calculi, 4 years after cyst excision. A septal stenosis in the left lateral anterior branch of the bile duct interfered with evacuation of the intrahepatic stones. The stenosis was grasped with a 3-prong grasper, applied through a choloangioscope, and resected when current was applied to an electrocauery. The stenotic bile duct was widened, and the stones were easily removed. Intrahepatic calculi have not recurred for 2 years. The present technique is another modality for the correction of biliary stenoses.

Bile infection contributes to intrahepatic calculi formation after excision of choledochal cysts

Intrahepatic calculi complicate choledochal cysts in 7-8% of patients. Although congenital stenoses and dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts are considered responsible for calculi formation, intrahepatic calculi are usually formed after cyst excision. In this study, bile specimens from patients with choledochal cysts were cultured for bacteria. Results were retrospectively analyzed among the following groups: the primary excision group, consisting of 97 patients undergoing cyst excision as a primary treatment (mean age 5.0 years), the internal drainage group, consisting of 13 patients who had previous cyst-enterostomy at cyst excision (mean age 20.2 years); and the hepatolithiasis group, consisting of 12 patients with postoperative hepatolithiasis (mean age 24.2 years). Bacteria were present in the bile of 10 patients (76.9%) in the internal drainage group and in all patients (100%) in the hepatolithiasis group, but present in only 17 patients (17.5%) in the primary excision group (p<0.01). Polymicrobial infection with Gram-negative enterobacteria such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species was predominant in the internal drainage and hepatolithiasis groups, while nonenteric bacteria were found in the primary excision group. Bile infection through bilioenterostomy may play an important role in intrahepatic calculus formation after excision of a choledochal cyst.

Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy or hepaticoduodenostomy for biliary reconstruction during the surgical treatment of choledochal cyst: which is better?

We reviewed our experience of Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (RYHJ) and hepaticoduodenostomy (HD) performed for the surgical repair of choledochal cyst (CC), with special emphasis on postoperative complications related to the type of biliary reconstruction performed. Eighty-six patients underwent primary cyst excision for CC from 1986 to 2002 at our institution. Forty-six cases with concurrent intrahepatic bile duct dilatation (IHBD) were excluded because HD was not used for biliary reconstruction if IHBD was present. Thus, 28 cases had RYHJ, and 12 had HD. Differences between the RYHJ and HD groups with respect to type of CC, age at cyst excision, and length of follow-up were not statistically significant. However, the incidences of postoperative complications related to biliary reconstruction, such as endoscopy-proven bilious gastritis due to duodenogastric bile reflux [4/12 (33.3%) of the HD group], and adhesive bowel obstruction/cholangitis [2/28 (7.1%) of the RYHJ group] were significantly different (p<.05). Our experience suggests that HD is not ideal for biliary reconstruction in CC because of a high incidence (33.3%) of complications due to duodenogastric bile reflux. Currently, RYHJ is our exclusive technique of choice for biliary reconstruction during the surgical repair of CC.

Clinical and Operative Findings of Choledochal Cysts in Neonates and Infants Differ From Those in Older Children

PURPOSE

Significant differences in the clinical and pathological presentation of choledochal cysts between infants and older children have been noted. We developed a new management strategy according to these differences.

METHODS

Between 1990 and 2001, we managed 34 cases of type I choledochal cyst. Nineteen patients were more than 1 year old. Fifteen patients underwent surgery before the age of 1 year, and eight before the age of 2 months. One patient was diagnosed prenatally. All patients underwent choledochal cyst excision and hepaticojejunostomy. Symptoms and signs, and findings from physical examination, laboratory tests, and pathology were recorded and analysed. Follow-up periods ranged from 6 months to 11 years.

RESULTS

Eight cases who were less than 1 year old suffered from painless jaundice, and choledochal cysts in this group usually ended as a blind pouch. Their cystic amylase and lipase concentrations were within normal limits. Biliary cirrhosis was diagnosed by liver biopsy in three of these patients. In contrast, 17 of the 19 patients who were more than 1 year old had abdominal pain, and 15 of their cysts were connected to the pancreatic duct. Cystic amylase and lipase concentrations were often elevated. All patients had an excellent outcome.

CONCLUSION

Diseases with different pathogeneses may cause different clinical manifestations and pathology of choledochal cysts in infants and older children. Some patients develop biliary cirrhosis in the early months of life. Our findings show that it is safe and imperative to treat neonates and infants with choledochal cysts as soon as possible, as delayed surgery may cause severe complications.