Emergency cholecystostomy and subsequent cholecystectomy for acute gallstone cholecystitis in the elderly

Endoscopic Ultrasonography-Guided Gallbladder Drainage

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) has emerged as a popular alternative to percutaneous cholecystostomy and endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder drainage for patients suffering from acute calculous cholecystitis who are at high risk for surgery. Multiple cohorts, meta-analyses, and a randomized controlled trial have shown that EUS-GBD has lower rates of recurrent cholecystitis and unplanned reinterventions, while achieving similar technical and clinical success rates than transpapillary cystic duct stenting. The essential steps, precautions in performing EUS-GBD and long-term management will be discussed in this article.

Influence of Percutaneous Transhepatic Gallbladder Aspiration and Drainage for Severe Acute Cholecystitis on the Surgical Outcomes of Subsequent Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Post Hoc Analysis of the CSGO-HBP-017 (CSGO-HBP-017C)

OBJECTIVE

Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder aspiration (PTGBA) and/or drainage (PTGBD) are useful approaches in the management of acute cholecystitis in patients who cannot tolerate surgery because of poor general condition or severe inflammation. However, reports regarding its effect on the surgical outcomes of subsequent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) are sparse. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the influence of PTGBA on surgical outcomes of subsequent LC by comparing the only-PTGBA group, including patients who did not need the additional-PTGBD, versus the additional-PTGBD group, including those who needed the additional-PTGBD after PTGBA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a post hoc analysis of our multi-institutional data. This study included 63 patients who underwent LC after PTGBA, and we compared the surgical outcomes between the only-PTGBA group (n = 56) and the additional-PTGBD group (n = 7).

RESULTS

No postoperative complications occurred among the 63 patients, and the postoperative hospital stay was 11 ± 12 days. Fourteen patients (22.2%) had a recurrence of cholecystitis, of whom 7 patients (11.1%) needed the additional-PTGBD after PTGBA. Significantly longer operative time (245 ± 74 vs 159 ± 65 min, P = 0.0017) and postoperative hospital stay (22 ± 27 vs 10 ± 9 d, P = 0.0118) and greater intraoperative blood loss (279 ± 385 vs 70 ± 208 mL, P = 0.0283) were observed among patients in the additional-PTGBD group compared with the only-PTGBA group, whereas the rates of postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3: 0% each) and conversion to open surgery (28.6% vs 8.9%, P = 0.1705) were comparable.

CONCLUSION

PTGBA for acute cholecystitis could result in good surgical outcomes of subsequent LC, especially regarding postoperative complications. However, we should keep in mind that the additional-PTGBD after PTGBA failure, which sometimes happened, would be associated with increased operative difficulty and longer recovery.

Postoperative bleeding after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage and aspiration in patients receiving antithrombotic therapy

This study aimed to investigate the bleeding risk associated with percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder interventions in patients with acute cholecystitis receiving antithrombotic therapy. In this retrospective study, 194 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder interventions for acute cholecystitis between April 2011 and April 2021 were enrolled. Patients were sorted into four groups: no prior antithrombotic therapy, discontinued antithrombotic drugs, single antithrombotic drug continued perioperatively, and multiple antithrombotic drugs continued perioperatively. The risk of postoperative bleeding after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder interventions was evaluated via multivariate logistic regression analysis. Of the 116 (59.8%) patients receiving antithrombotic therapy, 32 (16.5%) discontinued antithrombotic drugs before their respective procedure, 50 (25.8%) continued a single antithrombotic drug, and 34 (17.5%) continued multiple antithrombotic drugs during the perioperative period. The rates of significant and severe bleeding were 10.3% (20/194) and 3.1% (6/194), respectively. The rate of significant bleeding was significantly higher in patients who continued multiple antithrombotic drugs than in patients who received no prior antithrombotic therapy (P = 0.006). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the continuation of multiple antithrombotic drugs during the perioperative period was a risk factor for significant bleeding after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder interventions. In conclusion, the perioperative continuation of multiple antithrombotic drugs is a risk factor for postoperative bleeding after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder interventions.

Treatment Strategy for Acute Cholecystitis Induced by a Metallic Stent Placed in Malignant Biliary Strictures: Role of Percutaneous Transhepatic Gallbladder Aspiration

Objective The present study evaluated the strategic role of percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder aspiration (PTGBA) for acute cholecystitis (AC) induced by a metallic stent (MS) placed in a malignant biliary stricture in comparison with percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD). Methods The treatment outcomes for 31 patients who underwent PTGBA as the initial intervention for MS-induced AC were evaluated and compared with those for 12 who underwent PTGBD. Results The technical success rate was 100% for both groups. PTGBA was ineffective for 11 patients, all of whom recovered with additional intervention, whereas PTGBD was effective for all patients except for 1 who died of sepsis (clinical success rate, 65% vs. 90%, p=0.16). Adverse events (AEs) were observed in only 1 case (3%) in the PTGBA group (mild bile peritonitis). Among the clinically effective cases, AC recurred in 20% of the PTGBA group and 33% of the PTGBD group (p=0.72). In the PTGBA group, the clinical success rate was significantly higher for patients without cancer invasion to a feeding artery of the gallbladder than in those with invasion (75% without invasion vs. 29% with invasion; p=0.036). According to the multivariate analysis, this factor was an independent factor for clinical success of PTGBA (odds ratio, 9.27; p=0.040). Conclusion Although the clinical success rate of PTGBA for MS-induced AC was lower than that of PTGBD, PTGBA remains a viable option because of its safety and procedural simplicity, especially for cases without tumor invasion to a feeding artery.

Önemli komorbid durumları olan yaşlı hastalarda epidural anestezi altında kolesistektomi

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical treatment of gallstone disease with open cholecystectomy under epidural anesthesia in elderly patients with significant comorbid conditions. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 80 consecutive elderly patients over 65 years of age with significant comorbid conditions who underwent open cholecytectomy under epidural anesthesia for the surgical treatment of gallstone disease between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2019, all performed by one surgeon. Results: Mean age was found 77 ± 16 years. Fifty of the patients (62.5%) were females. Forty-seven patients (58.75%) showed an American Society of Anesthesiologist Physical Status (ASA, PS) of 3. The most frequently associated comorbidity involved the cardiovascular system (46 patients, 57.5%). Surgical indications were acute cholecystitis (AC) in 37 patients (46.25%) and chronic cholecystitis in 32 patients (40%). Mean operation time was 55 ± 22 minutes. Hospital stay was mean 12 ± 5 days. Total complication rate was 38.75%, and pulmonary complication was the most frequently encountered (13.75%). 30-day mortality was seen in 5 patients (6.25%). Conclusion: In older, high-risk gallstone patients, an open cholecystectomy with epidural anesthesia may be recommended. For this patient population, the mortality and morbidity rates are acceptable.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy after endoscopic trans-papillary gallbladder stenting for acute cholecystitis: a pilot study of surgical feasibility

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) is indicated for patients with acute cholecystitis (AC) who are not indicated for urgent surgery, but external tubes reduce quality of life (QOL) while waiting for elective surgery. The objective of the present study was to investigate the feasibility of laparoscopic cholecystectomy after endoscopic trans-papillary gallbladder stenting (ETGBS) comparing with after PTGBD.

METHODS

Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of patients with ETGBS and PTGBD were retrospectively compared.

RESULTS

Eighteen ETGBS and ten PTGBD patients were compared. Differences in the duration of ETGBS and PTGBD [median 209 min (range 107-357) and median 161 min (range 130-273), respectively, P = 0.10], median blood loss [ETGBS 2 (range 2-180 ml) and PTGBD 24 (range 2-100 ml), P = 0.89], switch to laparotomy (ETGBS 11% and PTGBD 20%, P = 0.52), and median postoperative hospital stay [ETGBS 8 (range 4-24 days) and ETGBS 8 (range 4-16 days), P = 0.99]. Thickening of the cystic duct that occurred in 60% of the ETGBS patients and none of the PTGBD patients (P = 0.005) interfered with closure of the duct by clipping. No obstruction occurred in ETGBS patients.

CONCLUSION

ETGBS did not make laparoscopic cholecystectomy less feasible than after PTGBD. This is a pilot study, and further investigations are needed to validate the results of the present study.

Predictive factors for developing acute cholangitis and/or cholecystitis in patients undergoing delayed cholecystectomy: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

/Objective: We evaluated the risk of acute cholangitis and/or cholecystitis while waiting for cholecystectomy for gallstones.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 168 patients who underwent cholecystectomy for gallstones after conservative therapy. We compared clinical data of 20 patients who developed acute cholangitis and/or cholecystitis while waiting for cholecystectomy (group A) with 148 patients who did not develop (group B). We investigated surgical outcomes and risk factors for developing acute cholangitis and/or cholecystitis.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, significant numbers of patients with previous history of acute grade II or III cholecystitis (55.0% vs 10.8%; p < 0.001) and biliary drainage (20.0% vs 2.0%; p = 0.004) were observed between groups A and B. White blood cell counts (13500/μL vs 8155/μL; p < 0.001) and C-reactive protein levels (12.6 vs 5.1 mg/dL; p < 0.001) were significantly higher in group A than in group B; albumin levels (3.2 vs 4.0 g/dL; p < 0.001) were significantly lower in group A. Gallbladder wall thickening (≥5 mm) (45.0% vs 18.9%; p = 0.018), incarcerated gallbladder neck stones (55.0% vs 22.3%; p = 0.005), and peri-gallbladder abscess (20.0% vs 1.4%; p = 0.002) were significantly more frequent in group A than in group B. A higher conversion rate to open surgery (20.0% vs 2.0%; p = 0.004), longer operation time (137 vs 102 min; p < 0.001), and higher incidence of intraoperative complications (10.0% vs 0%; p = 0.014) were observed in group A, compared with group B.

CONCLUSION

A history of severe cholecystitis may be a risk factor for acute cholangitis and/or cholecystitis in patients waiting for surgery; it may also contribute to increased surgical difficulty.

Management of acute cholecystitis after biliary stenting for malignant obstruction: comparison of percutaneous gallbladder drainage and aspiration

PURPOSE

To evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes between percutaneous gallbladder drainage (PGBD) and percutaneous gallbladder aspiration (PGBA) for acute cholecystitis after biliary stenting for malignant biliary obstruction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-six and 14 patients underwent PGBD and PGBA, respectively, for acute cholecystitis after biliary stenting for malignant obstruction. The technical success rate, clinical effectiveness, and safety were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in all patients. Clinical effectiveness rate was significantly higher in the PGBD group than in the PGBA group [100% (26/26) vs. 57% (8/14), p < 0.01]. In the PGBA group, clinical effectiveness rate was significantly lower in patients with tumor involvement of the cystic duct [13% (1/8) with involvement vs. 83% (5/6) without involvement, p = 0.03]. There were no deaths related to the procedure or acute cholecystitis aggravation. Pleural effusion and biliary peritonitis occurred in 1 patient each after PGBD and intra-abdominal bleeding occurred in 1 patient after PGBA as complications requiring treatment.

CONCLUSION

Although PGBD was a more effective treatment for acute cholecystitis after biliary stenting for malignant obstruction, PGBA may be a less invasive option for high-risk patients without tumor involvement of the cystic duct.

The Effect of Leucocytosis, Gender Difference, and Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Acute Cholecystitis in the Elderly Population

INTRODUCTION

Acute cholecystitis is one of the most common reasons of acute abdominal pain for older patients to present to the emergency department (ED). Presentation may differ from that of the younger patient and is often complicated by coexistent disease due to elderliness. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical presentation of acute cholecystitis, with special focus on comparision between elderly and young patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 318 patients who were admitted to the emergency department with right upper quadrant pain during a period of determined 8 months. After retrospective data collection, patients were groupped in accordance with their age, <65 and ≥65 years. Those who had ultrasonographic signs such as wall thickening and fluid collection were diagnosed as acute cholecystitis.

RESULTS

The young group (Group I) consisted of 225 patients, 132 females and 93 males. In Group I, 39 patients were diagnosed as acute cholecystitis of whom 27 were females and 15 were males. The elderly group (Group II) consisted of 93 patients 48 females and 45 males. In Group II, 36 patients were diagnosed as acute cholecystitis of whom 15 were females and 21 were males. Regarding the diagnosis of acute cholecystitis, the female to male ratio is 2.25 in Group I and 0.71 in Group II (p=0.016). The average white blood cells counts of patients with acute cholecystitis in Group I and in Group II were 9907x109/L(±4.437) and 17083x109/L(±7485), respectively (p<0,001).

CONCLUSIONS

Acute cholecystitis is a common diagnosis in elderly patients with right upper quadrant pain. It is more frequent in female in the early ages, but the gender difference tends to change with age. Elderly patients demonstrate a higher level of white blood cells when compared to young patients in acute cholecystitis. Clinicians must maintain a degree of awareness in the evaluation of geriatric patients with right upper quadrant abdominal pain.

Impact of preoperative management in patients older than 80 years requiring cholecystectomy

Backgrounds/Aims

Elderly patients aged >80 yr have high morbidity and mortality rates after biliary surgery, especially in emergency operations. We conducted this study to determine the effect of preoperative management on the outcome of elderly patients undergoing cholecystectomy.

Methods

The medical records of 452 elderly (≥80 yr old) patients who underwent cholecystectomy from January 1997 to December 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. We divided the patients into 2 groups: intervention (preoperative biliary drainage) and non-intervention groups. We evaluated the effects of preoperative management on the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score and perioperative outcomes.

Results

Among the preoperative biliary drainage intervention group (n=286), 48 patients (51.7%) were diagnosed as having gallbladder stone combined with common bile duct stone. On admission, the proportion of patients with ASA score ≥3 and WBC counts were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the non-intervention group (p<0.05). The preoperative hospital stay was longer in the intervention group; however, operation-related factors such as operation type, time, conversion rate, complications, and mortality showed no difference between groups.

Conclusions

With proper preoperative evaluations and preoperative biliary drainage, cholecystectomy can be a safe treatment option for elderly patients with cholelithiasis.

Preliminary Report of Percutaneous Cholecystostomy as Diagnosis and Treatment of Biliary Tract Trauma

BACKGROUND

Biliary leak following severe blunt liver injuries is a complex problem becoming more frequent with improvements in non-operative management. Standard treatment requires main bile duct drainage usually performed by endoscopic sphincterotomy and stent placement. We report our experience with cholecystostomy as a first minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic approach.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients with post-traumatic biliary leak between 2006 and 2015. In the first period (2006-2010), biliary fistula was managed using perihepatic drainage and endoscopic, percutaneous or surgical main bile duct drainage. After 2010, cholecystostomy as an initial minimally invasive approach was performed.

RESULTS

Of 341 patients with blunt liver injury, 18 had a post-traumatic biliary leak. Ten patients received standard treatment and eight patients underwent cholecystostomy. The cholecystostomy (62.5%) and the standard treatment (80%) groups presented similar success rates as the first biliary drainage procedure (p = 0.41). Cholecystostomy presented no severe complications and resulted, when successful, in a bile flow rate inversion between the perihepatic drains and the gallbladder drain within a median [IQR] 4 days [1-7]. The median time for bile leak resolution was 26 days in the cholecystostomy group and 39 days in the standard treatment group (p = 0.09). No significant difference was found considering median duration of hospital stay (54 and 74 days, respectively, p = 0.37) or resuscitation stay (17.5 and 19.5 days, p = 0.59).

CONCLUSION

Cholecystostomy in non-operative management of biliary fistula after blunt liver injury could be an effective, simple and safe first-line procedure in the diagnostic and therapeutic approach of post-traumatic biliary tract injuries.

Changing Epidemiology of the American Population

The changing epidemiology of the geriatric population in the United States has diverse social, medical, and financial implications that will continue to expand over the next few decades. According to the US Census Bureau, 20% of the US population will be 65 years or older by 2030 and more than 50% will eventually belong to a minority group. These changes are expected to be accompanied by several effects on the geriatric population's demographics, injury characteristics, surgical interventions, and the cost of caring for the geriatric population, which will ultimately broaden the financial burden.

Comparative Analysis of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Performed in the Elderly and Younger Patients: Should We Abstain from Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in the Elderly?

BACKGROUND

The elderly population is gradually increasing due to an increase in the quality of life and therefore the frequency of gallbladder stones in the population is also increasing. However, a considerable number of physicians tend to postpone or solve the problem with medical treatment instead of performing surgery in the elderly patients. In this study, we aim to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in the elderly and younger patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The medical records of 665 patients undergoing LC were evaluated retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups: ≥60 years of age and <60 years of age. Ages, genders, comorbid diseases, indications of surgery, American Society of Anesthesiologists scores, whether it is converted to an open cholecystectomy or not, reasons for conversion if it is converted, total duration of surgery, initiation of oral nutrition, duration of discharge, and postoperative complications of the patients in both groups were recorded.

RESULTS

The American Society of Anesthesiologists scores were statistically significantly higher in ≥60 years age group (p<0.001). The rate of experiencing acute cholecystitis with a stone in the gallbladder was significantly higher in the 60 years group (p=0.025). Comorbidity was statistically significantly higher in the ≥60 years age group (p<0.001). Hospitalization period, the mean hour of initiation of oral nutrition were statistically significantly higher in the ≥60 years age group (p<0.001, p=0.001). Conversion to an open cholecystectomy and postoperative complication rates of the ≥60 years age group were statistically significantly higher (p=0.034, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

We think that LC can be safely performed in the elderly people as well. However, it should be kept in mind that comorbidity may make the surgery and postoperative follow-up period complicated.

Is Interval Cholecystectomy Necessary After Percutaneous Cholecystostomy in High-Risk Acute Cholecystitis Patients?

Objectives:

Percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) for acute cholecystitis (AC) is frequently performed in high-risk surgical patients as an alternative treatment modality. However, debate remains over whether or not an interval cholecystectomy for these patients should be performed. The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of PC in high-risk surgical patients with AC.

Methods:

Between September 2013 and June 2016, 27 of 952 patients with AC were treated with PC. The data collection included demographic variables, including comorbidities, the timing of the PC, the length of the hospital stay, the follow-up period, the complications related to PC, and readmission to hospital.

Results:

There were 16 female and 11 male patients, with a mean age of 73±12.4 years (range: 49-97 years). Comorbid diseases included ischemic heart disease (n=6), diabetes mellitus (n=5), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n=6), and others (n=10). The mean timing of PC was 2.2±1.4 days (range: 1-3 days). The mean length of hospital stay was 9.6±2.1 days (range: 7-14 days), and the catheter was removed after the first month. The mean follow-up period after the PC catheter removal was 19.6±8.6 months (range: 10-38 months). Only 6 patients (22.2 %) were readmitted to the hospital. Cholecystectomy was performed in 4 cases, and 2 responded to medical treatment.

Conclusion:

Despite ongoing controversy about the management of AC in high-risk surgical patients, PC is an adequate and safely applicable procedure in this group of patients. However, an interval cholecystectomy should be considered in persistent cases, which account for a small percentage. Longer-term follow-up studies with a larger sample size are needed to support our results.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in the Elderly: An Experience at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Western Nepal

Background

The incidence of gallstone increases with increasing age. No studies have been reported in the elderly population with laparoscopic cholecystectomy from developing nations. The aim of this study was to compare perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic cholecystectomy between the elderly (≥60 years old) and the young (<60 years old).

Methods

From July 2015 to June 2016, a retrospective review of medical records of 78 elderly patients (≥60 years old) and 164 young patients (<60 years old) who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy was done. The patients' demographics and perioperative outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Median ages were 65 years (range: 60–80) and 45 years (range: 21–59) for the elderly group and the young group. The majority of patients were female (62.8 and 72%). There were no significant differences in the conversion rate (9 and 7.9%, P = 0.78), postoperative complications (17.9 and 14.6%, P = 0.50), and length of stay in the hospital (4 days for both groups, P = 0.35) between the two groups. There was no mortality in either of the groups.

Conclusion

Our results of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in elderly patients are comparable with those in young patients. Therefore, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safe even in the elderly population.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cholelithiasis 2016

Cholelithiasis is one of the commonest diseases in gastroenterology. Remarkable improvements in therapeutic modalities for cholelithiasis and its complications are evident. The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology has revised the evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cholelithiasis. Forty-three clinical questions, for four categories-epidemiology and pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis and complications-were selected, and a literature search was performed for the clinical questions with use of the MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Igaku Chuo Zasshi databases for the period between 1983 and June 2012. The guidelines were developed with use of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. This article preferentially describes the clinical management of cholelithiasis and its complications. Following description of the diagnosis performed stepwise through imaging modalities, treatments of cholecystolithiasis, choledocholithiasis, and hepatolithiasis are introduced along with a flowchart. Since there have been remarkable improvements in endoscopic treatments and surgical techniques, the guidelines ensure flexibility in choices according to the actual clinical environment. The revised clinical practice guidelines are appropriate for use by clinicians in their daily practice.

Emergency Versus Delayed Cholecystectomy After Percutaneous Transhepatic Gallbladder Drainage in Grade II Acute Cholecystitis Patients

INTRODUCTION

In grade II acute cholecystitis patients presenting more than 72 h after onset of symptoms, we prospectively compared treatment with emergency (ELC) to delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed 6 weeks after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD).

METHODS

Four hundred ninety-five patients with acute cholecystitis were assessed for eligibility; 345 were excluded or declined to participate. One hundred fifty patients were treated after consent with either ELC or PTGBD.

RESULTS

Both PTGBD and ELC were able to resolve quickly cholecystitis sepsis. ELC patients had a significantly higher conversion rate (24 vs. 2.7 %, P < 0.001), longer mean operative time (87.8 ± 33.06 vs. 38.09 ± 8.23 min, P < 0.001), higher intraoperative blood loss (41.73 ± 51.09 vs. 26.33 ± 23.86, P = 0.008), and longer duration of postoperative hospital stay (51.71 ± 49.39 vs. 10.76 ± 5.75 h, P < 0.001) than those in the PTGBD group. Postoperative complications were significantly more frequent in the ELC group (26.7 vs. 2.7 %, P < 0.001) with a significant increase in incidence (10.7 %) of bile leak (P = 0.006) compared to those in the PTGBD group.

CONCLUSION(S)

PTGBD and ELC are highly efficient in resolving cholecystitis sepsis. Delayed cholecystectomy after PTGBD produces better outcomes with a lower conversion rate, fewer procedure-related complications, and a shorter hospital stay than emergency cholecystectomy.

International collaborative study on EUS-guided gallbladder drainage: Are we ready for prime time?

BACKGROUND

Cholecystectomy remains the gold standard treatment of cholecystitis. Endoscopic treatment of cholecystitis includes transpapillary gallbladder drainage. Recently, endoscopic ultrasound-guided transmural drainage of the gallbladder (EUS-GBD) has been reported. This study reports the cumulative experience of an international group performing EUS-GBD.

METHODS

Cases of EUS-GBD from January 2012 to November 2013 from 3 tertiary-care institutions were captured in a registry. Patient demographics, disease characteristics, procedural and clinical outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

35 patients (15 malignant, 20 benign) were included. Median age was 81 years (SD=13.76 years), sixteen (46%) were males. Median follow-up was 91.5 days (SD=157 days). Transmural access was obtained from the stomach (n=17) or duodenum (n=18). Stents placed included plastic (n=6), metal (n=20), or combination (n=7). Technical success was achieved in 91.4% (n=32). Immediate adverse events (14%) included: bleeding, stent migration, cholecystitis and hemoperitoneum. Delayed adverse events (11%) included abscess formation and recurrence of cholecystitis. Long-term clinical success rate was 89%. Stent type and puncture site were not associated with immediate (p=0.88, p=0.62), or long-term (p=0.47, p=0.27) success.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-GBD appears to be feasible, safe, and effective. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and identify the best technique to use.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01522573.

High rate of common bile duct stones and postoperative abscess following percutaneous cholecystostomy

INTRODUCTION

The short and long-term outcomes in patients managed with percutaneous cholecystostomy (PCY) at a single institution are described.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted for patients treated between February 2000 and November 2012. Patient charts, imaging and biochemical data were reviewed. Patient demographics, presenting clinical features and treatment variables were noted. Outcome variables were length of admission, 30-day mortality, 30-day unplanned readmission, tube dislodgement, abscess formation, subsequent endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and surgery, complications after surgery and median overall survival.

RESULTS

PCY was performed for 55 patients for acute cholecystitis where surgical risk was very high. The 30-day readmission rate was 20% (n=11), the 30-day mortality rate was 9% (n=5) and median survival was 59 months (95% confidence interval: 30-88 months). The median follow-up duration was 68 months. Tubes were dislodged in 15 patients (27%) and an abscess occurred after PCY in 5 patients (9%). Subsequent endoscopic common bile duct stone extraction was required in 20 patients (36%). Cholecystectomy was planned in 22 patients and an abscess occurred following the cholecystectomy in 5 (23%).

CONCLUSIONS

Although a PCY is lifesaving, significant morbidity can arise during recovery. This study demonstrates a high rate of choledocholithiasis (44%), tube dislodgement (27%) and postoperative abscess (23%) compared with previous reports.

The Efficacy of Percutaneous Transhepatic Gallbladder Drainage on Acute Cholecystitis in High-Risk Elderly Patients Based on the Tokyo Guidelines: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

To evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGD) for high-risk elderly patients with acute cholecystitis.Retrospective analysis of 159 acute cholecystitis patients who were admitted to General Surgery Division III of the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University between January 2005 and November 2012. A total of 123 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), and 36 received only PTGD treatment. The LC patients were divided into 3 groups based on their preoperative treatment: group A, emergency patients (33 patients); group B (26 patients), patients who were treated with PTGD prior to LC; and group C (64 patients), patients who received nonsurgical treatment prior to LC. General conditions, LC surgery duration, intraoperative blood loss, rate of conversion to open surgery, incidence of postoperative complications, total fasting time, and total hospitalization time were analyzed and compared among the 3 groups.The remission rates of patients in the PTGD treatment groups (including group B and PTGD treatment only group) were significantly higher within 24 and 48 hours than those of patients who received nonsurgical treatment prior to LC (P < 0.05). Among the patients in the 3 surgery groups, the operation conversion rate (19.2%) of group B was significantly higher than that of group A (3.0%) and group C (1.6%) (P < 0.05). The total hospitalization time of the patients in group B (18.5 ± 4.5 days) was longer than that of the patients in group A (8.2 ± 3.9 days) and group C (10.5 ± 6.4 days). The total fasting time of the patients in group A (2.4 ± 1.2 days) was significantly shorter than that of those in group B (4.1 ± 1.7 days) and group C (3.4 ± 2.7 days) (P < 0.05).For high-risk elderly patients, if there is any emergency surgery contraindication, PTGD therapy may be safe and effective and can relieve the symptoms within a short time. For acute cholecystitis patients without surgery contraindications, emergency surgery should be performed as soon as possible after diagnosis.

The safety and efficacy of percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage in elderly patients with acute cholecystitis before laparoscopic cholecystectomy

PURPOSE

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the standard management for acute cholecystitis. Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) may be an alternative interim strategy before surgery in elderly patients with comorbidities. This study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PTGBD for elderly patients (>60 years) with acute cholecystitis.

METHODS

We reviewed consecutive patients diagnosed with acute cholecystitis between January 2009 and December 2013. Group I included patients who underwent PTGBD, and patients of group II did not undergo PTGBD before LC.

RESULTS

All 116 patients (72.7 ± 7.1 years) were analyzed. The preoperative details of group I (n = 39) and group II (n = 77) were not significantly different. There was no significant difference in operative time (P = 0.057) and intraoperative estimated blood loss (P = 0.291). The rate of conversion to open operation of group I was significantly lower than that of group II (12.8% vs. 32.5%, P < 0.050). No significant difference of postoperative morbidity was found between the two groups (25.6% vs. 26.0%, P = 0.969). In addition, perioperative mortality was not significantly different. Preoperative hospital stay of group I was significantly longer than that of group II (10.3 ± 5.7 days vs. 4.4 ± 2.8 days, P < 0.050). However, two groups were not significantly different in total hospital stay (16.3 ± 9.0 days vs. 13.4 ± 6.5 days, P = 0.074).

CONCLUSION

PTGBD is a proper preoperative management before LC for elderly patients with acute cholecystitis.

Timing of percutaneous cholecystostomy affects conversion rate of delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy for severe acute cholecystitis

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous cholecystostomy is reserved for very high-operative-risk patients suffering from severe acute cholecystitis, who do not respond to conservative treatment. It is associated with high conversion rate to open surgery, when cholecystectomy is held later on. Our objective was to assess whether early timing of percutaneous cholecystostomy decreases conversion rate of delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy to open surgery.

METHODS

The study population included 59 patients who underwent percutaneous cholecystostomy for severe cholecystitis and then proceeded to delayed interval laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The study consisted of a retrospective survey of medical files, based on a prospective enrollment of the data. We assessed conversion rate between two groups based on the time period from onset of symptoms and from admission to hospital until performance of cholecystostomy.

RESULTS

Regarding the time from onset of pain to drainage, early cholecystostomy (within 2 days, group I) was associated with 8.3% conversion rate, in contrast to 33.3% in group II (3-6 days from onset of symptoms). Regarding the day of admission to hospital, early drainage revealed 16% conversion rate in contrast to 40.7% in later drainage (p = 0.047, Chi-square test). We found correlation between time interval of symptoms and admission to conversion rate, according to Spearman's correlation coefficient.

CONCLUSIONS

Early percutaneous cholecystostomy does decrease conversion rate of delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy, possibly by halting the propagation of the inflammatory process and its consequences. When decision regarding the necessity to perform drainage of the severely inflamed gallbladder is established, it is suggested to be done as soon as possible.

A retrospective comparison of older and younger adults undergoing early laparoscopic cholecystectomy for mild to moderate calculous cholecystitis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the demographic characteristics and intra- and postoperative outcomes in elderly adults (≥75) with those of younger adults undergoing early (<5 days after onset of complaints) cholecystectomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis from May 2010 to August 2012.

SETTING

Randomized, multicenter, clinical trial (ABCAL Study, NCT01015417).

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals with mild or moderate acute calculous cholecystitis (ACC) according to the Tokyo Guidelines (N=414; n=78 aged 75-94, median 82; n=336 aged 18-74, median 49).

MEASUREMENTS

Demographic characteristics and pre-, intra-, and postoperative data.

RESULTS

The elderly group was more likely to have an American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 3 or greater (62% vs 23%, P<.001), higher serum creatinine (103 vs 74 μmol/L, P<.001), and more-severe ACC (moderate ACC (62% vs 50%, P=.05), gangrenous cholecystitis (38% vs 15%, P=.001)) on preoperative imaging and confirmed intraoperatively. Ulcerated mucosa (76% vs 61%, P=.001) was significantly more frequent in the elderly group. Operative time, postoperative mortality, and postoperative infectious (18% vs 14%, P=.35) and noninfectious (9% vs 3%, P=.80) complications were similar between the two groups. Median length of stay (7.0 vs 5.0 days, P=.54) and readmission rate (15% vs 4%, P=.07) were not significantly higher in the elderly group. No significant difference was observed for the subgroup of participants aged 80 and older.

CONCLUSION

In this randomized trial that included a selected sample of older adults, there was no difference in major outcomes between elderly adults and their younger counterparts after early cholecystectomy. The findings are limited because important geriatric outcomes such as delirium and functional decline were not examined.

Clinical outcome for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in extremely elderly patients

PURPOSE

Extremely elderly patients who present with complicated gallstone disease are less likely to undergo definitive treatment. The use of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in older patients is complicated by comorbid conditions that are concomitant with advanced age and may increase postoperative complications and the frequency of conversion to open surgery. We aimed to evaluate the results of LC in patients (older than 80 years).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 302 patients who underwent LC for acute cholecystitis between January 2011 and December 2013. Total patients were divided into three groups: group 1 patients were younger than 65 years, group 2 patients were between 65 and 79 years, and group 3 patients were older than 80 years. Patient characteristics were compared between the different groups.

RESULTS

The conversion rate was significantly higher in group 3 compared to that in the other groups. Hematoma in gallbladder fossa and intraoperative bleeding were higher in group 3, the difference was not significant. Wound infection was not different between the three groups. Operating time and postoperative hospital stay were significantly higher in group 3 compared to those in the other groups. There was no reported bile leakage and operative mortality. Preoperative percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography were performed more frequently in group 3 than in the other groups.

CONCLUSION

LC is safe and feasible. It should be the gold-standard approach for extremely elderly patients with acute cholecystitis.

Role of percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder aspiration in the early management of acute cholecystitis

OBJECTIVE

Early cholecystectomy is currently the gold standard treatment for acute cholecystitis (AC). However, the acceptability and safety of this strategy remain in dispute. The aim of this study was to clarify the role of percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder aspiration (PTGBA) in the early management of AC in a single center.

METHODS

A total of 147 consecutive patients who were treated with PTGBA for AC from 2008 to 2012 were included in the study. The therapeutic outcomes and adverse events were evaluated.

RESULTS

A single PTGBA was adequate for 96 (65.3%) patients with AC. Of the remaining 51 patients, 43 (29.3%) showed an improvement after repeated PTGBA and/or percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD), while semi-emergency cholecystectomy was needed in eight patients. Although five patients experienced adverse events (intra-abdominal hemorrhage in two, bile leakage in two and gallbladder hemorrhage in one), no patient died of treatment-related complications. Subsequently, 87 (59.2%) patients underwent cholecystectomy after PTGBA (a single PTGBA in 48 and repeated PTGBA and/or PTGBD in 39 patients). No significant differences were observed in the conversion rate from laparoscopic surgery to open cholecystectomy, operative time or intraoperative hemorrhage volume between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrated the safety and acceptability of treatment with PTGBA for AC at our center. This elective treatment strategy may be a useful alternative option in the treatment of AC.

Severe bleeding after percutaneous transhepatic drainage of the biliary system: effect of antithrombotic agents--analysis of 34 606 cases from a Japanese nationwide administrative database

PURPOSE

To investigate the relationship between antithrombotic agents (antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants) and severe bleeding after percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) for biliary obstruction, or cholecystostomy for acute cholecystitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study was institutional review board-approved, and patient consent was waived. Between July 2007 and March 2012, 34 606 patients who underwent PTBD (23 375 patients) or cholecystostomy (11 231 patients) were identified in the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database covering 1119 Japanese hospitals. The association between oral administration of antithrombotic agents prior to the procedure and severe bleeding was evaluated, with adjustment for other potential risk factors, such as age, chronic renal failure, liver cirrhosis, and procedure type. Users of antithrombotic agents were categorized as the continuation group, when they took these agents on the procedure day, or as the discontinuation group, when none were taken. Severe bleeding was defined as bleeding which required red blood cell transfusion or transcatheter arterial embolization within 3 days of the procedure. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models fitted with generalized estimating equations were performed to evaluate the effect of antithrombotic agents on the bleeding complication.

RESULTS

Overall, 780 of 34 606 patients (2.3%) experienced severe bleeding. In the multivariate model, continuation of antiplatelet agents was significantly associated with severe bleeding versus nonuse (odds ratio [OR], 1.87; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14, 3.05; P = .013), whereas discontinuation of antiplatelet agents showed no association (OR, 0.92; 95% CI: 0.70, 1.20; P = .517). The effect of neither continuation nor discontinuation of anticoagulants on severe bleeding was significant. Other significant risk factors for bleeding included older age, chronic renal failure, liver cirrhosis, academic hospital, and PTBD.

CONCLUSION

The continuation of antiplatelet agents can increase severe bleeding after percutaneous transhepatic drainage, whereas the effect of continuation of anticoagulants was inconclusive.

Clinical outcomes of a percutaneous cholecystostomy for acute cholecystitis: a multicentre analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to review a series of consecutive percutaneous cholecystostomies (PC) to analyse the clinical outcomes.

METHODS

All patients who underwent a PC between 2000 and 2010 were reviewed retrospectively for indications, complications, and short- and long-term outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients underwent a PC with a median age was 74 years (range 14-93). 92.4% (n = 49) of patients were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) III and IV. 82% (43/53) had ultrasound-guided drainage whereas 18% (10/53) had computed tomography (CT)-guided drainage. 71.6% (n = 38) of PC's employed a transhepatic route and 28.4% (n = 15) transabdominal route. 13% (7/53) of patients developed complications including bile leaks (n = 5), haemorrhage (n = 1) and a duodenal fistula (n = 1). All bile leaks were noted with transabdominal access (5 versus 0, P = 0.001). 18/53 of patients underwent a cholecystectomy of 4/18 was done on the index admission. 6/18 cholecystectomies (33%) underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy and the remaining required conversion to an open cholecystectomy (67%). 13/53 (22%) patients were readmitted with recurrent cholecystitis during follow-up of which 7 (54%) had a repeated PC. 12/53 patients died on the index admission. The overall 1-year mortality was 37.7% (20/53).

CONCLUSIONS

Only a small fraction of patients undergoing a PC proceed to a cholecystectomy with a high risk of conversion to an open procedure. A quarter of patients presented with recurrent cholecystitis during follow-up. The mortality rate is high during the index admission from sepsis and within the 1 year of follow-up from other causes.

Cholecystostomy: a bridge to hospital discharge but not delayed cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Current data on the clinical course of patients with acute cholecystitis managed with percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) are limited by small sample size and imperfect follow-up. We present the characteristics and clinical course of a population-based cohort with acute cholecystitis managed with PC.

METHODS

We designed a retrospective cohort study using administrative databases capturing all emergency department (ED) visits and hospital admissions within a geographic region with a population of more than 13 million. From all adults with a first emergency admission for acute cholecystitis from 2004 to 2011, those managed with PC were included in the cohort. The cumulative incidences of subsequent cholecystectomy and death were calculated, considering death a competing risk to cholecystectomy. Polytomous logistic regression was then used to examine differences in patient characteristics across outcome status at 1 year: cholecystectomy, dead without cholecystectomy, or alive without cholecystectomy. Moreover, the risk of a gallstone-related ED visit or hospital admission after discharge was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Of 27,718 patients with acute cholecystitis, 890 (3.3%) underwent PC. The cohort was elderly with a mean (SD) age of 75 (14) years, and 14% were in the intensive care unit on the day of PC. In-hospital mortality was 5%. By 1 year after PC, only 40% had undergone cholecystectomy, while an additional 18% had died without cholecystectomy. The risk of a gallstone-related ED visit or hospital admission was 49% by 1 year after discharge.

CONCLUSION

While PC is often performed with the intent of delayed cholecystectomy, less than half of patients actually go on to surgery. High mortality and likely ongoing contraindications to surgery preclude intervention in most patients, although the risk of gallstone-related ED visit or hospital admission remains high. Further prospective investigation is warranted to clarify the potential mortality and quality-of-life gains from elective cholecystectomy following PC.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic study, level III.

A population-based analysis of the morbidity and mortality of gallbladder surgery in the elderly

BACKGROUND

Historically, emergency gallbladder surgery in elderly patients has been associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Recent studies have described much lower complication rates that may still overestimate morbidity. The purpose of this study was to determine the true population morbidity and mortality rates after gallbladder surgery in the elderly.

METHODS

All elderly patients (defined as age 65 years or older) admitted to the hospital with a principle diagnosis related to benign gallbladder disease in the Province of Manitoba from January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2008 were identified by using administrative claims data. Outcomes after emergency gallbladder surgery, including complication rates and their predictors, were compared with outcomes after elective surgery and after nonoperative treatment for gallbladder-related hospital admissions.

RESULTS

A total of 9,936 patients were included: 2,355 had emergency or urgent surgery and 4,901 had elective procedures, whereas 2,680 patients were treated without surgery. Emergency gallbladder surgery was associated with a mortality rate of 0.7 %, compared with 1.6 % for elective cases and 5.6 % for patients treated nonoperatively. Complication rates were 16.2, 17.7, and 25 % respectively. Independent predictors of 30-day mortality were age, male gender, increasing comorbidity, surgeon experience, and surgical treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Emergency gallbladder surgery in the elderly was not associated with higher mortality or complication rate compared with the elective setting. Elderly patients with gallbladder-related emergencies should be offered urgent surgery when feasible.

Complication rate of ultrasound-guided percutaneous cholecystostomy in patients with coagulopathy

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this article is to compare the complication rate for ultrasound-guided percutaneous cholecystostomy in patients with coagulopathy to the rate in patients with normal coagulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a database search for patients who underwent ultrasound-guided percutaneous cholecystostomy from January 2000 through December 2010. Patients were divided into those with normal coagulation and those with coagulopathy, as documented by abnormal laboratory values (international normalized ratio ≥ 1.5 and platelet count ≤ 50 × 10(9)/L) or history of anticoagulant medication in the preceding 5 days. Medical records were reviewed, and complication rates and subsequent treatment was recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using the Fisher exact and chi-square tests.

RESULTS

Two hundred forty-two patients underwent ultrasound-guided percutaneous cholecystostomy (132 men and 110 women; mean [± SD] age, 73.9 ± 15.9 years; range, 22-104 years). One hundred thirty-two patients were coagulopathic and 110 had normal coagulation. Major complications related to ultrasound-guided percutaneous cholecystostomy were rare (4/242 cases [1.7%]) and included hemorrhage requiring transfusion (n = 1), death directly related to the procedure (n = 1), sepsis related to the procedure (n = 1), and abscess or biloma formation (n = 1). All of these occurred in the group with normal coagulation. Fourteen additional deaths (5.8%) that occurred within 30 days of the procedure were related to comorbidities. Minor catheter-related complications (15/242 [6.2%]) were due to catheter dislodgement (n = 11 [4.5%]), failure of placement (n = 1 [0.4%]), and hemorrhage not requiring transfusion (n = 3 [1.2%]). Two of the minor hemorrhagic complications were seen in the coagulopathic group and one in the normal coagulation group (p = 0.599).

CONCLUSION

There is no difference in the complication rate for ultrasound-guided percutaneous cholecystostomy in patients who are coagulopathic compared with those who have normal coagulation.

Laparoscopic approach to acute abdomen from the Consensus Development Conference of the Società Italiana di Chirurgia Endoscopica e nuove tecnologie (SICE), Associazione Chirurghi Ospedalieri Italiani (ACOI), Società Italiana di Chirurgia (SIC), Società Italiana di Chirurgia d'Urgenza e del Trauma (SICUT), Società Italiana di Chirurgia nell'Ospedalità Privata (SICOP), and the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES)

BACKGROUND

In January 2010, the SICE (Italian Society of Endoscopic Surgery), under the auspices of the EAES, decided to revisit the clinical recommendations for the role of laparoscopy in abdominal emergencies in adults, with the primary intent being to update the 2006 EAES indications and supplement the existing guidelines on specific diseases.

METHODS

Other Italian surgical societies were invited into the Consensus to form a panel of 12 expert surgeons. In order to get a multidisciplinary panel, other stakeholders involved in abdominal emergencies were invited along with a patient's association. In November 2010, the panel met in Rome to discuss each chapter according to the Delphi method, producing key statements with a grade of recommendations followed by commentary to explain the rationale and the level of evidence behind the statements. Thereafter, the statements were presented to the Annual Congress of the EAES in June 2011.

RESULTS

A thorough literature review was necessary to assess whether the recommendations issued in 2006 are still current. In many cases new studies allowed us to better clarify some issues (such as for diverticulitis, small bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, hernias, trauma), to confirm the key role of laparoscopy (such as for cholecystitis, gynecological disorders, nonspecific abdominal pain, appendicitis), but occasionally previous strong recommendations have to be challenged after review of recent research (such as for perforated peptic ulcer).

CONCLUSIONS

Every surgeon has to develop his or her own approach, taking into account the clinical situation, her/his proficiency (and the experience of the team) with the various techniques, and the specific organizational setting in which she/he is working. This guideline has been developed bearing in mind that every surgeon could use the data reported to support her/his judgment.

Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage changes emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy to an elective operation in patients with acute cholecystitis

Many surgeons have found it difficult to decide whether to apply percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) in patients with acute cholecystitis that is not responsive to initial medical management (IMMx), because the indications of PTGBD are ambiguous. The aim of this study was to evaluate the appropriate treatment for acute cholecystitis that is not responsive to IMMx. Specifically, we focused on differences in surgical outcomes between elective and emergency laparoscopic surgeries. Between March 2006 and February 2009, 738 patients with acute cholecystitis who had undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) at our institution were retrospectively studied. We divided them into 3 groups. Group I included 494 patients who underwent elective LC without pre-operative PTGBD, group II included 97 patients who intended to undergo elective LC after preoperative PTGBD, and group III included 147 patients who underwent emergency LC without preoperative PTGBD. We compared age, sex, symptom duration, body temperature, leukocyte counts, and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class on admission as clinical characteristics. We compared the time interval from symptom development and admission to surgery, operative time, the conversion rate to open surgery, postoperative complications, the total length of stay, and the postoperative length of stay as perioperative surgical outcomes. For patients with ASA 2 and 3, the conversion rate to open surgery in group II was significantly less than that in group III (P<.05, P<.01, respectively). We recommend PTGBD as the first choice for acute cholecystitis in patients who show no improvement after IMMx, to allow the patient to undergo an elective LC rather than emergency surgery for patients with ASA 2 and 3.

Short- and long-term outcomes following percutaneous cholecystostomy for acute cholecystitis in high-risk patients

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous cholecystostomy is a less invasive method to treat acute cholecystitis in patients who are critically ill or have serious medical comorbidities precluding the use of general anesthesia. It remains controversial whether interval cholecystectomy is warranted. The objectives of the study were to determine the success rate and complications of percutaneous cholecystostomy and the proportion of patients without recurrent attacks in whom interval cholecystectomy was not needed.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review to determine the outcomes after percutaneous cholecystostomy for acute calculous cholecystitis between 1995 and 2007. Administrative data were used to better capture recurrent symptoms requiring treatment.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients with a mean age of 74 years were identified. Sixty-seven (98.5%) underwent successful insertion of the cholecystostomy tubes. Eleven patients suffered tube-related complications, including tube dislodgment (9), tube blockage (1), and bleeding that was controlled with conservative management (1). The initial episode of cholecystitis was treated successfully in 58 patients (85%). The overall in-hospital and 30-day mortality were both 15% (10 patients). A total of 7 patients (10%) underwent cholecystectomy while still in hospital. There were 39 patients at risk for recurrent disease who survived the initial episode and did not receive an interval cholecystectomy. Of these 39 patients, 16 (41%) suffered recurrent gallbladder-related disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous cholecystostomy is an alternative to cholecystectomy in patients with acute calculous cholecystitis who are at high risk for surgical mortality and morbidity. It appears to have a low complication rate and good clinical success. Because a significant number of patients suffer recurrent attacks, elective cholecystectomy should be considered routinely. Unfortunately, firm criteria for selecting percutaneous cholecystostomy over cholecystectomy are lacking, and the surgeon's clinical judgment is critically important.

Percutaneous management of biliary emergencies

Most biliary emergencies can be classified as either infectious or obstructive. Infectious complications include acute cholecystitis and cholangitis. Many of these can be treated either surgically or endoscopically, but in some instances, less-invasive percutaneous techniques can be utilized to successfully treat these conditions. Obstructive complications, especially in the setting of liver transplant, can be serious if not treated quickly. Percutaneous drainage is sometimes the only acceptable treatment alternative for these patients.

Results of percutaneous transhepatic cholecystostomy for high surgical risk patients with acute cholecystitis

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of percutaneous transhepatic cholecystostomy (PTC) in treatment for acute cholecystitis in high surgical risk patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was carried out from January 1999 to June 2007 on 23 patients, 11 males and 12 females, who underwent PTC for the management of acute cholecystitis at the Department of Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China. The mean age of the patients was 83. They all had either clinical or radiological evidence of acute cholecystitis and had significant pre-morbid diseases. The median follow-up period on them was 35 months.

RESULTS

All the PTCs performed were technically successful. One patient died from procedure-related haemoperitoneum, while 87% (n = 20) of all the patients had clinical resolution of sepsis by 20 h after PTC. Eight patients underwent elective cholecystectomy afterwards (62.5% with the laparoscopic approach). Eight patients had dislodgement of the PTC catheter and one of them developed recurrent acute cholecystitis 3 months after PTC. That patient was treated conservatively. Four patients died from their pre-morbid conditions during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

PTC was a safe and effective alternative for treating acute cholecystitis in this group of patients. Thirteen of them without elective cholecystectomy performed did not have recurrent acute cholecystitis after a single session of PTC. It may be considered as a definitive treatment for this group of patients.

Percutaneous imaging-guided interventions for acute biliary disorders in high surgical risk patients

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous imaging-guided biliary interventions in the management of acute biliary disorders in high surgical risk patients.

METHODS: One hundred and twenty two patients underwent 139 percutaneous imaging-guided biliary interventions during the period between January 2007 to December 2009. The patients included 73 women and 49 men with a mean age of 61 years (range 35-90 years).

Fifty nine patients had acute biliary obstruction, 26 patients had acute biliary infection and 37 patients had abnormal collections. The procedures were performed under computed tomography (CT)- (73 patients), sonographic- (41 patients), and fluoroscopic-guidance (25 patients). Success rates and complications were determined. The χ² test with Yates’ correction for continuity was applied to compare between these procedures. A P value < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS: The success rates for draining acute biliary obstruction under CT- , fluoroscopy- or ultrasound-guidance were 93.3%, 62.5% and 46.1%, respectively with significant P values (P = 0.026 and 0.002, respectively). In acute biliary infection, successful drainage was achieved in 22 patients (84.6%). The success rates in patients drained under ultrasound- and CT-guidance were 46.1% and 88.8%, respectively and drainage under CT-guidance was significantly higher (P = 0.0293). In 13 patients with bilomas, percutaneous drainage was successful in 11 patients (84.6%). Ten out of 12 cases with hepatic abscesses were drained with a success rate of 83.3%. In addition, the success rate of drainage in 12 cases with pancreatic pseudocysts was 83.3%. The reported complications were two deaths, four major and seven minor complications.

CONCLUSION: Percutaneous imaging-guided biliary interventions help to promptly diagnose and effectively treat acute biliary disorders. They either cure the disorders or relieve sepsis and jaundice before operations.

Gallstone disease in the elderly: are older patients managed differently?

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to describe the differences in the management of symptomatic gallstone disease within different elderly groups and to evaluate the association between older age and surgical treatment.

METHODS

This single-institution retrospective chart review included all patients 65 years old and older with an initial hospital visit for symptomatic gallstone disease between 2004 and 2008. The patients were stratified into three age groups: group 1 (age, 65-74 years), group 2 (age, 75-84 years), and group 3 (age, ≥ 85 years). Patient characteristics and presentation at the initial hospital visit were described as well as the surgical and other nonoperative interventions occurring over a 1-year follow-up period. Logistic regression was performed to assess the effect of age on surgery.

RESULTS

Data from 397 patient charts were assessed: 182 in group 1, 160 in group 2, and 55 in group 3. Cholecystitis was the most common diagnosis in groups 1 and 2, whereas cholangitis was the most common diagnosis in group 3. Elective admissions to a surgical ward were most common in group 1, whereas urgent admissions to a medical ward were most common in group 3. Elective surgery was performed at the first visit for 50.6% of group 1, for 25.6% of group 2, and for 12.7% of group 3, with a 1-year cumulative incidence of surgery of 87.4% in group 1, 63.5% in group 2, and 22.1% in group 3. Inversely, cholecystostomy and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) were used more often in the older groups. Increased age (odds ratio [OR], 0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.84-0.91) and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.69-0.94) were significantly associated with a decreased probability of undergoing surgery within 1 year after the initial visit.

CONCLUSION

Even in the elderly population, older patients presented more frequently with severe disease and underwent more conservative treatment strategies. Older age was independently associated with a lower likelihood of surgery.

Internal gallbladder drainage prevents development of acute cholecystitis in a pig model: a randomized study

Background

Acute cholecystitis can be the result of retention of bile in the gallbladder with possible secondary infection and ischaemia. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether internal drainage of the gallbladder could protect against the development of acute cholecystitis in a pig model.

Materials and methods

Twenty pigs were randomized to either internal drainage (drained) or not (undrained). Day 0 acute cholecystitis was induced by ligation of the cystic artery and duct together with inoculation of bacteria. Four days later the pigs were killed and the gallbladders were removed and histologically scored for the presence of cholecystitis. Bile and blood samples were collected for bacterial culturing and biochemical analyses.

Results

The histological examination demonstrated statistical significant differences in acute cholecystitis development between groups, the degree of inflammation being highest in undrained pigs. There were no differences in bacterial cultures between the two groups.

Conclusion

Internal drainage of the gallbladder protected against the development of acute cholecystitis in the present pig model. These findings support the theory that gallstone impaction of the cystic duct plays a crucial role as a pathogenetic mechanism in the development of acute cholecystitis and suggest that internal drainage may be a way to prevent and treat acute cholecystitis.

EUS-guided cholecystoenterostomy with single-step placement of a 7F double-pigtail plastic stent in patients who are unsuitable for cholecystectomy: a pilot study (with video)

BACKGROUND

Although the definitive therapy of acute cholecystitis is cholecystectomy, nonsurgical treatment such as percutaneous cholecystostomy could be indicated in patients who are unsuitable candidates for cholecystectomy. EUS-guided cholecystoenterostomy with a plastic stent and/or nasobiliary drainage has been proposed as an alternative effective treatment for these patients.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted this study to evaluate the technical feasibility, safety, usefulness, and follow-up results of EUS-guided cholecystoenterostomy with single-step placement of a plastic stent for patients with acute cholecystitis who are unsuitable candidates for cholecystectomy.

DESIGN

A prospective feasibility study with a case series.

SETTING

Tertiary teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

Eight consecutive patients diagnosed with acute cholecystitis who were poor candidates for surgery.

INTERVENTIONS

EUS-guided cholecystoenterostomy with single-step placement of a 7F double-pigtail plastic stent.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Technical success, clinical resolution of acute cholecystitis, procedure-related complications, and recurrence of cholecystitis.

RESULTS

Technical success and clinical resolution were achieved in all patients (100% [8/8] as intent to treat). A transduodenal approach was used for 7 patients and a transgastric approach for 1 patient. One patient showed self-limited pneumoperitoneum, and bile peritonitis occurred in 1 patient. One patient showed distal stent migration without bile leakage 3 weeks after stent insertion. During follow-up periods (median 186 days; range 22-300 days), cholecystitis did not recur in any patients.

LIMITATIONS

Small number of patients.

CONCLUSION

EUS-guided cholecystoenterostomy with single-step placement of a 7F double-pigtail plastic stent may be a feasible and useful alternative in patients with acute cholecystitis who are unsuitable candidates for cholecystectomy.

Impact of delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy after percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage for patients with complicated acute cholecystitis

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for complicated acute cholecystitis is associated with high rates of complications and conversion to open cholecystectomy. Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) is a safe and effective treatment for acute inflammation of the gallbladder. This study was a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent an LC with or without PTGBD for complicated acute cholecystitis at our hospital between January 2002 and January 2007. Patients were classified into 3 groups: group 1, patients who underwent an LC without preoperative PTGBD (n=60); group 2, patients who underwent an early scheduled LC within 7 days of PTGBD (n=35); and group 3, patients in whom the LC was delayed for a mean of 19.9 days (range, 14 to 39 d) after PTGBD (n=38). The conversion rate to open cholecystectomy and the postoperative complication rate were lower in group 3 than in group 1 (P<0.05). Elective delayed LC after PTGBD may lower the conversion and complication rates of patients with complicated acute cholecystitis.

Systematic review of cholecystostomy as a treatment option in acute cholecystitis

OBJECTIVES

Percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) is an established low-mortality treatment option for elderly and critically ill patients with acute cholecystitis. The primary aim of this review is to find out if there is any evidence in the literature to recommend PC rather than cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis in the elderly population.

METHODS

In April 2007, a systematic electronic database search was performed on the subject of PC and cholecystectomy in the elderly population. After exclusions, 53 studies remained, comprising 1918 patients. Three papers described randomized controlled trials (RCTs), but none compared the outcomes of PC and cholecystectomy. A total of 19 papers on mortality after cholecystectomy in patients aged >65 years were identified.

RESULTS

Successful intervention was seen in 85.6% of patients with acute cholecystitis. A total of 40% of patients treated with PC were later cholecystectomized, with a mortality rate of 1.96%. Procedure mortality was 0.36%, but 30-day mortality rates were 15.4 % in patients treated with PC and 4.5% in those treated with acute cholecystectomy (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

There are no controlled studies evaluating the outcome of PC vs. cholecystectomy and the papers reviewed are of evidence grade C. It is not possible to make definitive recommendations regarding treatment by PC or cholecystectomy in elderly or critically ill patients with acute cholecystitis. Low mortality rates after cholecystectomy in elderly patients with acute cholecystitis have been reported in recent years and therefore we believe it is time to launch an RCT to address this issue.