Gallbladder disease in children

Association between sarcopenia-related markers and cholelithiasis: A prospective and Mendelian randomization study

Cholelithiasis is a common digestive disease that drives a myriad of adverse complications. The correlation between sarcopenia and various digestive disorders has been extensively researched, whereas its association with cholelithiasis remains unreported. We aimed to investigate the association through prospective and Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses and establish a quantitative score reflecting the impact of sarcopenia-related markers on cholelithiasis. The prospective study involved 448 627 participants from the UK Biobank. Cox proportional hazard models were employed to investigate the correlation between sarcopenia-related markers and cholelithiasis. To quantitatively assess cholelithiasis risk, the SARCHO score was derived from a multivariable Cox model. Bidirectional two-sample MR analysis was conducted to validate the causal association. A total of 16 738 individuals developed cholelithiasis during a median follow-up of 12 years. Hazard ratios (HRs) of cholelithiasis decreased stepwise over skeletal muscle index tertiles (highest tertile: reference; middle tertile: 1.23, p < .001; lowest tertile: 1.33, p < .001). The tertiles of grip strength showed a similar pattern. Individuals with slow walking pace had a higher risk of cholelithiasis compared to those with normal walking pace (HR 1.23; p < .001). Our SARCHO score better quantifies the risk of cholelithiasis. MR analysis showed a causal relationship between muscle mass and cholelithiasis (OR 0.81; p < .001). No causal effect of cholelithiasis on lean mass was observed. Prospective and MR analyses have consistently demonstrated an increased risk of cholelithiasis in individuals with decreased muscle mass. Additionally, SARCHO score further quantified the cholelithiasis occurrence risk. These findings provide compelling evidence for muscle strengthening in preventing cholelithiasis.

Comparison of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in children at paediatric centres and adult centres: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Paediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is performed by both paediatric and adult surgeons. The aim of this review was to compare outcomes at paediatric centres (PCs) and adult centres (ACs).

METHODS

A literature search was conducted, in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, for papers published between January 2000 and December 2020. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata® version 16 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, US).

RESULTS

A total of 92 studies involving 74,852 paediatric LCs met the inclusion criteria. Over half (59%) of the LCs were performed at ACs. No significant differences were noted in the male-to-female ratio, mean age or mean body mass index between PCs and ACs. The main indications were cholelithiasis (34.1% vs 34.4% respectively, p=0.83) and biliary dyskinesia (17.0% vs 23.5% respectively, p<0.01). There was no significant difference in the median inpatient stay (2.52 vs 2.44 days respectively, p=0.89). Bile duct injury was a major complication (0.80% vs 0.37% respectively, p<0.01). Reoperation rates (2.37% vs 0.74% respectively, p<0.01) and conversion to open surgery (1.97% vs 4.74% respectively, p<0.01) were also significantly different. Meta-analysis showed no significant difference in overall complications (p=0.92).

CONCLUSIONS

The number of LCs performed, intraoperative cholangiography use and conversion rates were higher at ACs whereas bile duct injury and reoperation rates were higher at PCs. Despite a higher incidence of bile duct injury at PCs, the incidence at both PCs and ACs was <1%. In complex cases, a joint operation by both paediatric and adult surgeons might be a better approach to further improve outcomes. Overall, LC was found to be a safe operation with comparable outcomes at PCs and ACs.

Transcystic Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration for Pediatric Patients with Choledocholithiasis: A Multi-Center Study

BACKGROUND

Patients with choledocholithiasis are often treated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Upfront LC, intraoperative cholangiogram (IOC), and possible transcystic laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) could potentially avoid the need for ERCP. We hypothesized that upfront LC + IOC ± LCBDE will decrease length of stay (LOS) and the total number of interventions for children with suspected choledocholithiasis.

METHODS

A multicenter, retrospective cohort study was performed on pediatric patients (<18 years) between 2018 and 2022 with suspected choledocholithiasis. Demographic and clinical data were compared for upfront LC + IOC ± LCBDE and possible postoperative ERCP (OR1st) versus preoperative ERCP prior to LC (OR2nd). Complications were defined as postoperative pancreatitis, recurrent choledocholithiasis, bleeding, or abscess.

RESULTS

Across four centers, 252 children with suspected choledocholithiasis were treated with OR1st (n = 156) or OR2nd (n = 96). There were no differences in age, gender, or body mass index. Of the LCBDE patients (72/156), 86% had definitive intraoperative management with the remaining 14% requiring postoperative ERCP. Complications were fewer and LOS was shorter with OR1st (3/156 vs. 15/96; 2.39 vs 3.84 days, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Upfront LC + IOC ± LCBDE for children with choledocholithiasis is associated with fewer ERCPs, lower LOS, and decreased complications. Postoperative ERCP remains an essential adjunct for patients who fail LCBDE. Further educational efforts are needed to increase the skill level for IOC and LCBDE in pediatric patients with suspected choledocholithiasis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Increases in pediatric cholecystectomy during the COVID-19 pandemic: An interrupted time series analysis

BACKGROUND

Historically, cholecystectomy is infrequently performed in children. Lifestyle changes, delays in healthcare access, and increases in childhood obesity occurred during the COVID-2019 pandemic. It is unclear whether these changes impacted pediatric gallbladder disease and the need for cholecystectomy.

METHODS

A retrospective study of children ≤18 years old undergoing cholecystectomy from January 1, 2016, to July 31, 2022, at a tertiary children's hospital was conducted. On March 19, 2020, a statewide mandatory coronavirus disease 2019 stay-at-home policy began. Differences in children undergoing cholecystectomy before and during the pandemic were identified using bivariate comparisons. An interrupted time series analysis identified differences in case volume trends.

RESULTS

Overall, 633 children were identified-293 pre-pandemic and 340 pandemic. A majority were female sex (76.3%) and Hispanic (67.5%), with a median age of 15 years (interquartile range: 13.0-16.0). Children who underwent cholecystectomy during the pandemic had significantly higher body mass index (28.4 versus 25.8, P = .002), and obesity (body mass index >30) was more common (45.3% versus 31.7%, P = .001). During the pandemic, significant increases in complicated biliary disease occurred-symptomatic cholelithiasis decreased (41.5% versus 61.8%, P < .001) and choledocholithiasis (17.9% versus 11.6%, P = .026), gallstone pancreatitis (17.4% versus 10.6%, P = .015), and chronic cholecystitis (4.7% versus 1.0%, P = .007) increased. The number of cholecystectomies performed per month increased during the pandemic, and on interrupted time series analysis, there was a significant increase in month-to-month case count during the pandemic (P = .003).

CONCLUSION

Cholecystectomy case volume significantly increased during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, possibly secondary to increases in childhood obesity. Future studies are needed to determine whether this increased frequency of pediatric cholecystectomy is representative of broader shifts in pediatric health and healthcare use after coronavirus disease 2019.

Machine learning to predict pediatric choledocholithiasis: A Western Pediatric Surgery Research Consortium retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to accurately predict pediatric choledocholithiasis with clinical data using a computational machine learning algorithm.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective cohort study was performed on children <18 years of age who underwent cholecystectomy between 2016 to 2019 at 10 pediatric institutions. Demographic data, clinical findings, laboratory, and ultrasound results were evaluated by bivariate analyses. An Extra-Trees machine learning algorithm using k-fold cross-validation was used to determine predictive factors for choledocholithiasis. Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve on a validation dataset.

RESULTS

A cohort of 1,597 patients was included, with an average age of 13.9 ± 3.2 years. Choledocholithiasis was confirmed in 301 patients (18.8%). Obesity was the most common comorbidity in all patients. Choledocholithiasis was associated with the finding of a common bile duct stone on ultrasound, increased common bile duct diameter, and higher serum concentrations of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, lipase, and direct and peak total bilirubin. Nine features (age, body mass index, common bile duct stone on ultrasound, common bile duct diameter, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, lipase, direct bilirubin, and peak total bilirubin) were clinically important and included in the machine learning algorithm. Our 9-feature model deployed on new patients was found to be highly predictive for choledocholithiasis, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic score of 0.935.

CONCLUSION

This multicenter study uses machine learning for pediatric choledocholithiasis. Nine clinical factors were highly predictive of choledocholithiasis, and a machine learning model trained using medical and laboratory data was able to identify children at the highest risk for choledocholithiasis.

Pediatric DUCT Score: A Highly Specific Predictive Model for Choledocholithiasis in Children

BACKGROUND

Current adult guidelines for the management of choledocholithiasis (CDL) may not be appropriate for children. We hypothesized adult preoperative predictive factors are not reliable for predicting CDL in children.

STUDY DESIGN

A multicenter retrospective cohort study was performed evaluating children (≤18 years of age) who underwent cholecystectomy for gallstone disease at 10 children's hospitals. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to identify factors independently associated with CDL. Patients were stratified into risk groups demonstrating the presence of predictive factors for CDL. Statistical analyses were performed, and chi-square analyses were used with a significance of p < 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 979 cholecystectomy patients were analyzed. The diagnosis of CDL was confirmed in 222 patients (22.7%) by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, or intraoperative cholangiography. Three predictive factors were identified: (1) Dilated common bile duct ≥6 mm; (2) Ultrasound with Choledocholithiasis; and (3) Total bilirubin ≥1.8 mg/dL (pediatric DUCT criteria). Risk groups were based on the number of predictive factors: very high (3), high (2), intermediate (1), and low (0). The pediatric DUCT criteria demonstrated accuracies of >76%, specificity of >78%, and negative predictive values of >79%. Adult factors (elevated aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase, pancreatitis, BMI, and age) did not independently predict CDL. Based on risk stratification, the high- and very-high-risk groups demonstrated higher predictive capacity for CDL.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that the pediatric DUCT criteria, incorporating common bile duct dilation, choledocholithiasis seen on ultrasound, and total bilirubin ≥1.8 mg/dL, highly predicts the presence of choledocholithiasis in children. Other adult preoperative factors are not predictive of common bile duct stone in children.

Magnetic resonance imaging following the demonstration of a normal common bile duct on ultrasound in children with suspected choledocholithiasis: what is the benefit?

BACKGROUND

The role of MRI in evaluating children with an in situ gallbladder and suspected choledocholithiasis following a negative or inconclusive US is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether MRI benefits children with suspected choledocholithiasis and a normal common bile duct (CBD) without stones on US.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective 10-year review of paired US and MRI (within 10 days) in children 18 years or younger with suspected choledocholithiasis. With MRI as a reference standard, two reviewers independently evaluated the images for CBD diameter, choledocholithiasis, cholelithiasis and pancreatic edema. Serum lipase was recorded. We calculated exact binomial confidence limits for test positive predictive values (PPVs) and negative predictive values (NPVs) using R library epiR.

RESULTS

Of 87 patients (46 female, 41 male; mean age 14 years, standard deviation [SD] 4.6 years; mean interval between US and MRI 1.6 days, SD 1.8 days), 55% (48/87) had true-negative US, without CBD dilation/stones confirmed on MRI; 5% (4/87) had false-positive US showing CBD dilatation without stones, not confirmed on MRI; 33% (29/87) had true-positive US, with MRI confirming CBD dilatation; and 7% (6/87) had false-negative US, where MRI revealed CBD stones without dilatation (2 patients) and CBD dilatation with or without stones (4 patients). Patients with false-negative US had persistent or worsening symptoms, pancreatitis or SCD. The overall US false-negative rate was 17% (6/35). Normal-caliber CBD on US without stones had an NPV of 89% (48/54, 95% confidence interval: 0.77-0.96).

CONCLUSION

MRI adds little information in children with a sonographically normal CBD except in the setting of pancreatitis or worsening clinical symptoms. Further evaluation is warranted in children with elevated risk of stone disease.

Cholecystectomies performed in children by pediatric surgeons compared to general surgeons in North Carolina are associated with higher institutional charges

INTRODUCTION

The delivery of pediatric surgical care for gallbladder (GB) and biliary disease involves both General Surgeons (GS) and Pediatric Surgeons (PS). There is a lack of data describing how surgeon specialty impacts practice patterns and healthcare charges.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of the North Carolina Inpatient Hospital Discharge Database (2013-2017) on pediatric patients (≤18 years) undergoing surgery for biliary pathology. We performed multivariate linear regression comparing surgeons with surgical charge.

RESULTS

12,531 patients had GB or biliary pathology and 4023 (32.1%) had cholecystectomies. The most common procedure for PS and GS was cholecystectomy for cholecystitis (n = 509, 54.0% and n = 2275, 76.4%, p < 0.001), respectively. The hospital ($26,605, IQR $18,955-37,249, vs. $17,451, IQR $13,246-23,478, p < 0.001) and surgical charges ($15,465, IQR $12,233-22,203, vs. $10,338, IQR $6837-14,952, p < 0.001) were higher for PS than GS. Controlling for pertinent variables, surgical charges for PS were $4192 higher than for GS (95% CI: $2162-6122).

CONCLUSION

The cholecystectomy charge differential between PS and GS is significant and persisted after controlling for pertinent covariates.

The Etiology of Cholelithiasis in Children and Adolescents-A Literature Review

The incidence of gallstone disease has increased in recent years. The pathogenesis of cholelithiasis is not fully understood. The occurrence of the disease is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. This article reviews the literature on cholelithiasis in children, with the exception of articles on hematological causes of cholelithiasis and cholelithiasis surgery. The aim of this review is to present the latest research on the pathogenesis of gallstone disease in children. The paper discusses the influence of all factors known so far, such as genetic predisposition, age, infections, medications used, parenteral nutrition, and comorbidities, on the development of gallstone disease. The course of cholelithiasis in the pediatric population is complex, ranging from asymptomatic to life-threatening. Understanding the course of the disease and predisposing factors can result in a faster diagnosis of the disease and administration of appropriate treatment.

The Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Common Bile Duct Exploration: A Single-Step Treatment of Pediatric Cholelithiasis and Choledocholithiasis

BACKGROUND

In recent years, complicated biliary tract diseases are increasingly diagnosed in children. Laparoscopic exploration of the common bile duct (LCBDE) followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy has gained popularity in children. The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of LCBDE in children and compare them with the treatment outcomes of previously used endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

METHODS

From January 2000 to January 2022, a total of 84 children (78.5% female) underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a median follow-up of 11.4 (IQR 8, 14) years. Of these, 6 children underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) + ERCP and 14 children underwent LCBDE for choledochiothiasis. The primary end point of the study was the success of treatment in terms of the incidence of complications, recurrence rate, and rate of reoperation. Secondary endpoints were stone characteristics, presenting symptoms, duration of surgery, and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

The majority of patients were female in both groups (83.5% vs. 85.7%), mostly overweight with a median BMI of 27.9 kg/m² and 27.4 kg/m², respectively. Obstructive jaundice, colicky pain, acute pancreatitis, and obstruction of the papilla were the most common symptoms in both groups. The majority of patients (68%) had one stone, whereas two or more stones were found in 32% of patients. The median diameter of the common bile duct was 9 mm in both groups. The procedure was successfully completed in all patients in the ERCP group. In the group of patients treated with LCBDE, endoscopic extraction of the stone with a Dormia basket was successfully performed in ten patients (71.4%), while in the remaining four patients (28.6%) the stones were fragmented with a laser because extraction with the Dormia basket was not possible. The median operative time was 79 min in the LCBDE group (IQR 68, 98), while it was slightly longer in the ERCP group, 85 min (IQR 74, 105) (p = 0.125). The length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the LCBDE group (2 vs. 4 days, p = 0.011). No complications occurred in the LCBDE group, while two (40%) complications occurred in the ERCP group: pancreatitis and cholangitis (p = 0.078). During the follow-up period, no conversions, papillotomies, or recurrences were recorded in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Exploration of the common bile duct and removal of stones by LCBDE is safe and feasible in pediatric patients for the treatment of choledocholithiasis. Through this procedure, choledocholithiasis and cholelithiasis can be treated in a single procedure without papillotomy or fluoroscopy. Compared with LC + ERCP, LCBDE is associated with a shorter hospital stay. The incidence of complications was rather low but not statistically significant.

Pediatric Normokinetic Biliary Dyskinesia: Pain with Cholecystokinin on Hepatobiliary Iminodiacetic Acid Scan Predictive of Symptom Resolution After Cholecystectomy

Introduction: Biliary dyskinesia is typically defined as a gallbladder ejection fraction (EF) <35% on hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan with cholecystokinin stimulation (CCK-HIDA) testing. Cholecystectomy often leads to resolution of associated biliary colic symptoms. Alternatively, there is a subset of symptomatic patients with normal gallbladder EF on CCK-HIDA. It has been proposed that pain with CCK injection is more predictive of symptom resolution after cholecystectomy than low gallbladder EF. We reviewed our experience with pediatric patients with positive CCK provocation testing and a normal gallbladder EF in the absence of gallstones. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of all pediatric patients with normal hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid EFs (35%-80%) and pain with CCK injection at a tertiary care center between 2016 and 2020. Age, gender, body mass index (BMI), CCK-HIDA results, and pathology analysis were noted. Short- and long-term resolution of symptoms was determined by patient self-reporting at a mean of 3 weeks and 46 months, respectively. Results: Seventeen patients met inclusion criteria. Average age was 15.1 years (range, 12-17 years) with median BMI 24.9 (± 4.9 kg/m²). Mean CCK-HIDA EF was 56.3% (± 11.4%). In total, 62.5% of patients had evidence of chronic cholecystitis and/or cholesterolosis on pathology analysis. Of patients available for short-term and long-term postoperative follow-up, 80% and 83% reported complete or near complete resolution of symptoms, respectively. Conclusions: Normokinetic biliary dyskinesia is poorly understood but appears to be associated with chronic inflammation and cured by surgical intervention. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy results in resolution of symptoms for a majority of patients and should be considered in those with pain with CCK injection despite normal imaging studies. Clinical Trial Registration Number: 1657640-2.

Gallstones in patients with severe motor and intellectual disability

BACKGROUND

Asymptomatic gallbladder stones may be detected with ultrasound; some gallstones produce symptomatic diseases, such as cholecystitis, cholangitis, or pancreatitis. Identifying the clinical features of symptomatic gallstones may help prevent severe complications by providing intervention for asymptomatic gallstones. We aimed to investigate risk factors associated with developing symptomatic disease in pediatric patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (SMID).

METHODS

This retrospective study enrolled 30 patients with SMID who were treated at the Nara Medical University between March 2016 and March 2019. We examined the prevalence of gallstones, and the rate at which associated symptoms of gallstones were observed in patients. Furthermore, we compared the clinical features of patients with and without gallstones.

RESULTS

Among 30 patients with SMID, 7 (23%) had gallstones, with 6 (86%) of them being symptomatic: 3 patients had acute pancreatitis and 3 had cholecystitis or cholangitis. Among 23 patients without gallstones, 2 had acute pancreatitis and 2 had biliary sludge. Patients with gallstones had significantly lower daily calorie intake than those without gallstones (P = 0.042). Furthermore, the incidence of gallstones was higher in patients who received total parenteral nutrition than in those who did not (P = 0.031). Comparative analysis between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients was not performed because almost all cases were symptomatic.

CONCLUSION

Gallstones were detected in 23% of patients with SMID. The gallstones were symptomatic at a very high rate. Considering this fact, patients with SMID should be surveyed for gallstones; careful management may be needed in such patients.

Biliary hyperkinesia in adolescents-it isn't all hype!

Background

Biliary dyskinesia generally refers to a hypofunctioning gallbladder with an ejection fraction (EF) of <35% on hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan with cholecystokinin stimulation (CCK-HIDA testing). In adults, biliary hyperkinesia has a defined association with biliary colic symptoms and can be relieved with surgical intervention. This clinical entity has not been well described in children or adolescents. In fact, only recently have we seen biliary hyperkinesia on HIDA at our centers. To that end, we reviewed our recent experience with adolescents who have presented and been treated for this unusual clinical entity.

Methods

With IRB approval, we retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients with abnormally high HIDA EFs (>80%) cared for by the pediatric surgery services at two tertiary care centers over the span of a three-year period. Age, sex, BMI, CCK-HIDA results, and preoperative testing and post-operative pathology were noted. Resolution of symptoms was determined by subjective patient self-reporting at postoperative visit.

Results

Eighteen patients met inclusion criteria. Average age 15.7 (range, 10-17 years), median BMI 27.3 (±8.2). Fifteen patients were female and 3 were male. Average CCK-HIDA EF was 91.6% (±5.2), 82.4% of the patients had evidence of chronic cholecystitis and/or cholesterolosis on pathology. Postoperatively, 82.4% of the patients available for follow up (n=17) reported complete or near complete resolution of symptoms.

Conclusions

Biliary hyperkinesia is an emerging clinical entity in children and adolescents and has a similar presentation to biliary hypokinesia. While the pathophysiologic mechanism of pain is not fully elucidated, laparoscopic cholecystectomy appears to provide a surgical cure for these patients and should be considered in the differential for the patient with an unremarkable workup and history suggestive of biliary colic.

SYMPTOMATIC CHOLELITHIASIS AS THE PRESENTATION OF PEDIATRIC PRIMARY SCLEROSING CHOLANGITIS - CASE SERIES AND LITERATURE REVIEW

BACKGROUND

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare hepatobiliary disorder, whose etiology remains not fully elucidated. Given how rare PSC is in childhood, until the recent publication of a multicenter international collaboration, even data on its characteristics and natural history were scarce. Symptomatic cholelithiasis has not been previously reported as the presentation of PSC.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was the diagnosis of PSC following the initial unusual presentation with symptomatic cholelithiasis, that followed an atypical clinical course that could not be explained by cholelithiasis alone. A literature review was also conducted.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of three patients, who were diagnosed and/or followed at the Clinics Hospital, University of Campinas - Sao Paulo/ Brazil, between 2014 and 2020. Data analyzed included gender, age of presentation, past medical history, imaging findings, laboratory results, endoscopic evaluation, response to medical therapy and follow-up.

RESULTS

Age at time of presentation with cholelithiasis varied from 10 to 12 years. In two of the cases reported, a more subacute onset of symptoms preceded the episode of cholelithiasis. Two patients were managed with cholecystectomy, not followed by any surgical complications, one patient was managed conservatively. Percutaneous liver biopsy was performed in all three cases, showing histological findings compatible with PSC. Associated inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) was not seen in any of the patients. The patients have been followed for a mean time of 3.4 years.

CONCLUSION

PSC and cholelithiasis are both rare in the pediatric population. This study reports on symptomatic cholelithiasis as a presentation of PSC and raises the importance of suspecting an underlying hepatobiliary disorder in children with cholelithiasis without any known predisposing factors and/or that follow an atypical clinical course for cholelithiasis alone.

Comparative analysis of reliability and clinical effects of the critical view of safety approach used in laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the pediatric population

PURPOSE

With the increase in indications for cholecystectomy in children, the frequency of laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures and related problems has increased. The Critical View of Safety (CVS) is the target-specific method for identifying the cystic duct during laparoscopic cholecystectomy to prevent common bile duct injury. We hypothesize that the use of CVS is reliable in the pediatric population.

METHODS

Data of 91 patients under 18 years of age who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups depending on whether CVS was applied. The descriptive characteristics and complications of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

CVS was applied to 41 patients. When the groups were compared in terms of operation time, postoperative length of stay, idiopathic gallbladder perforation, dropping stone, and presence of surgical site infection, no statistical significant difference was found. However, the time to start oral feeding was shorter in CVS group (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

We believe CVS is a reliable method to ensure safe cystic channel identification in the pediatric population. New studies are warranted on the effectiveness of CVS for safely performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy in children, as the procedure is being performed more frequently in the pediatric population.

Association of hospital and surgeon operative volumes and surgeon pediatric subspecialization with pediatric laparoscopic cholecystectomy outcomes: A population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Most pediatric cholecystectomies are performed by adult general surgeons, but it is unclear whether outcomes differ by surgeon pediatric subspecialization, hospital procedure volume, or surgeon procedure volume. We aimed to determine whether higher hospital or surgeon laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) volume or surgeon pediatric subspecialization is associated with better outcomes after LC in children.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study using statewide hospital discharge databases from the states of Florida, Georgia, and Iowa. We included children aged 4-18 years who underwent inpatient or outpatient LC for acute or chronic gallbladder disease in January 2010-August 2015. Propensity score weighting was used to estimate relationships between operative volumes or surgeon pediatric subspecialization and rates of readmission or emergency department (ED) visit within 30 days.

RESULTS

A total of 5391 children were included (mean age 15.9 years, 81.6% female). Children operated on by surgeons with high LC volumes in hospitals with high LC volumes were less likely to experience a readmission or ED visit within 30 days (10.8% vs. 13.7%, p = 0.04). Additionally, children operated on by adult general surgeons in hospitals with high LC volumes were less likely to experience a readmission or ED visit within 30 days (10.9% vs. 13.8%, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Children are less likely to be readmitted to the hospital or present to the ED after laparoscopic cholecystectomy if they receive their care from adult general surgeons at hospitals that frequently perform this procedure in both adults and children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Symptomatic Cholecystic Disease in Children: Defining Surgical Timing

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the standard of care for gallbladder (GB) pathologies. We evaluated clinical, ultrasonographic (US) data as well as histopathological findings in children affected with symptomatic cholecystic disease (SCD) who underwent LC, with the aim of defining surgical timing. Methods: We reviewed our cases who underwent elective LC (ELC) or urgent LC (ULC). Clinical, US, surgical and histological features were used to create different risk scores. Results: We considered 26 children (17 ELC/9 ULC). US signs were not different in the two groups (p > 0.05). Operating times were longer in ELC than in ULC (p = 0.01). Histopathological evaluation revealed fibrosis and atrophy in both ELC and ULC. The clinical risk score was higher in ELC compared to ULC (p < 0.001). An increased operative risk score was noted in patients with systemic inflammatory signs (OR1.98), lithotherapy (OR1.4.3) and wall thickening ≥3 mm (OR2.6). An increased histopathological risk score was detected in children with symptom duration >7 days (OR3.61), concomitant hematological disease (OR1.23) and lithotherapy (OR3.61). Conclusion: Criteria adopted in adults cannot be adopted to detect the severity of GB damage in children. A dedicated clinical and US score is mandatory to define the most appropriate surgical timing.

Trends in the epidemiology of pediatric acute and chronic cholecystitis-related admissions in the USA: a nationwide emergency department and inpatient sample study

Acute and chronic cholecystitis can be related to gallstone disease, although in childhood acalculous cholecystitis may be the most frequent form. Chronic acalculous cholecystitis is a subtype of pediatric chronic abdominal pain. The overall incidence of cholecystitis in children appears to be increasing. Studies suggest a widely variable but predominant female, Caucasian and late adolescent preponderance to the affected population. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP), a national emergency department, pediatric and adult inpatient admission coding-based database was accessed for the population-weighted demographic characteristics related to documented principal diagnoses (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification) of acute and chronic cholecystitis; pediatric and adult age range 2006–2012 (emergency department), 1997–2012 (inpatient service). ED-derived data show pediatric admissions at the smallest age category (1%), averaging 3.7/100 000 persons; discharges were highest in the 15–17 age range. Inpatient admission was more likely in older (93% >10 years), female (F:M 3.7:1) children, and patients from lower median household income residences. Over the study period, there was a significant relative increase in males. Mean length of inpatient stay was 3.2 days, tended to be shorter in female and older patients; this pattern was reflected in the overall hospital charges which rose threefold over the study period (1997–2012). Our study establishes the gender distribution of cholecystitis-related diagnoses and as yet poorly understood admission discrepancies based on gender and socioeconomic status. Length of admission has overall decreased but costs have risen threefold over the study period.

Pediatric Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration: An Opportunity to Decrease ERCP Complications

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic intraoperative cholangiogram (IOC) with common bile duct exploration (CBDE) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are two therapeutic techniques for choledocholithiasis. The preferred technique is unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified subjects who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and IOC/CBDE or ERCP from July 1, 2006, to December 31, 2016. We retrospectively reviewed 81 patients (≤ 18 y) who received these interventions for suspected choledocholithiasis. Main outcomes analyzed were success of intervention and complications.

RESULTS

Of the 81 patients, 21 ERCPs and three endoscopic ultrasounds (EUSs) were performed before LC. Eighteen of 21 (85.7%) patients had stones or sludge cleared by ERCP, whereas 3 (14.3%) had normal common bile ducts without evidence of stones. Five of 24 (20.8%) had significant post-ERCP complications. Seven of 24 (29.2%) had more than one admission. Sixty of 81 patients underwent LC with IOC ± CBDE. Twenty one of 60 (36.2%) were found to have abnormal IOC. Eight of 15 (53.3%) attempted laparoscopic CBDE were successful. Eleven of 21 (52.4%) patients with abnormal IOC had post-LC ERCP (10) and EUS (1). Patients admitted to the Pediatric Surgery service were more likely to undergo LC first than ERCP/EUS (OR 3.46, 95% CI 1.26 to 9.45, P = 0.016). Patients undergoing LC first had a shorter length of stay (mean LOS 5.13 d versus 4.07, median 5.0 versus 3.0 d, P-value < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Successful and safe laparoscopic treatment of choledocholithiasis is possible in the pediatric patient. A laparoscopic-first approach to suspected choledocholithiasis may reduce the number of procedures needed in this patient population.

Ultrasound findings in paediatric cholestasis: how to image the patient and what to look for

Paediatric biliary tract and gallbladder diseases include a variety of entities with a wide range of clinical presentations. Cholestasis represents an impaired secretion of bilirubin by hepatocytes, manifesting with high blood levels of conjugated bilirubin and jaundice. Various causes may be involved, which can be recognised analysing blood tests and hepatobiliary imaging, while sometimes liver biopsy or surgery may be necessary. High-resolution real-time ultrasonography is an important tool for differentiation of obstructive and non-obstructive causes of jaundice in infants and children. In this paper, we briefly review the normal anatomy and the ultrasound aspects of main pathologies affecting gallbladder and biliary tree in neonatal and paediatric age.

Biliary hyperkinesia, a new diagnosis or misunderstood pathophysiology of dyskinesia: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Biliary colic, characterized by intermittent right upper quadrant abdominal pain is a common complaint in the United States population. Patients whose pain is undiagnosed by ultrasound generally undergo hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan with cholecystokinin stimulation (HIDA-CCK) to assess function of the gallbladder and biliary tree. Traditionally, two outcomes are possible based on a measured ejection fraction of the gallbladder: either dyskinesia or normal function is diagnosed. Biliary dyskinesia, or hypokinesia of the gallbladder, is accepted as an ejection fraction less than 35%, while an accepted normal functioning gallbladder ejection fraction is greater than 35%.

CASE

We report a case of a fifteen-year-old female who had functional gallbladder disease per Rome IV criteria due to intermittent biliary colic, with exception to the ejection fraction measurement which was elevated at 96.5%. She underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy with complete symptom resolution.

DISCUSSION

As demonstrated in the literature reviewed here, these subsets of patients, who present with normal to high ejection fractions, have undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy with resolution of pain in several case studies.

CONCLUSION

Many unknown variables still exist due to lack of prospective studies, most notably the pathophysiology and definitive indications for surgical treatment. As such, we propose that surgical options should not be limited to those who display the traditional findings of biliary dyskinesia, but also patients who demonstrate typical symptoms with normal to elevated ejection fraction, following work up to rule out the extensive differential diagnoses for right upper quadrant abdominal pain.

Trends of Cholecystectomies for Presumed Biliary Dyskinesia in Children in the United States

BACKGROUND

Biliary dyskinesia (BD) is a controversial clinical entity. Standardized diagnostic test and management guidelines are lacking in children. Published data suggest that long-term outcomes of surgical and medical management are similar. We sought to determine national population-based trends of cholecystectomies performed in children for BD and associated healthcare expenditure in the United States during a 10-year period.

METHODS

Using Nationwide Inpatient Sample and the International Classification of Diseases, the 9th revision clinical modification codes, we identified children who had a cholecystectomy for BD from 2002 to 2011 in the United States.

RESULTS

A total of 66,380 cholecystectomies were identified as primary procedural diagnosis using weighted analysis from 2002 to 2011 in children. BD was the primary indication for cholecystectomy in 6674 (10.8%) of the patients. During the study period, the number of cholecystectomies performed for BD in children increased from 6.6% in 2002 to 10.6% in 2011, and a majority were adolescent white females. The annual health care expenditure for surgical management of BD for children in the US was estimated to almost $16 million/year.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite lack of standardized diagnostic criteria and variable outcomes of surgical intervention reported in pediatric literature, cholecystectomies are commonly performed for children with BD in the United States. Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and management of this controversial disorder in children are needed.

Biliary Dyskinesia in Children: A Systematic Review

Cholecystectomy rates for biliary dyskinesia in children are rising in the United States, but not in other countries. Biliary dyskinesia is a validated functional gallbladder disorder in adults, requiring biliary colic in the diagnosis. In contrast, most studies in children require upper abdominal pain, absent gallstones on ultrasound, and an abnormal gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF) on cholecystokinin-stimulated cholescintigraphy for diagnosis. We aimed to systematically review existing literature in biliary dyskinesia in children, determine the validity and reliability of diagnostic criteria, GBEF, and to assess outcomes following cholecystectomy. We performed a systematic review following the PRISMA checklist and searched 7 databases including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Ovid, MEDLINE, ProQuest, Web of Science, and the Cochrane library. Bibliographies of articles were screened for additional studies. Our search terms yielded 916 articles of which 28 were included. Three articles were manually added from searched references. We reviewed 31 peer-reviewed publications, all retrospective chart reviews. There was heterogeneity in diagnostic criteria and GBEF values. Outcomes after laparoscopic cholecystectomy varied from 34% to 100% success, and there was no consensus concerning factors influencing outcomes. The observational, retrospective study designs that comprised our review limited interpretation of safety and efficacy of the investigations and treatment in biliary dyskinesia in children. Symptoms of biliary dyskinesia overlapped with functional dyspepsia. There is a need for consensus on symptoms defining biliary dyskinesia, validation of testing required for diagnosis of biliary dyskinesia, and randomized controlled trials comparing medical versus surgical management in children with upper abdominal pain.