Risk factors for impaired wound healing in sirolimus-treated renal transplant recipients

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the incidence of incisional hernia in urological surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the incidence of incisional hernia in patients undergoing direct access to the abdominal cavity in urological surgery.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review in Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Central from 1980 to the present according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. Eighty-four studies were selected for inclusion in this analysis, and meta-analysis and meta-regression were performed.

RESULTS

The total incidence in the 84 studies was 4.8% (95% CI 3.7% - 6.2%) I2 93.84%. Depending on the type of incision, it was higher in the open medial approach: 7.1% (95% CI 4.3%-11.8%) I2 92.45% and lower in laparoscopic surgery: 1.9% (95% CI 1%-3.4%) I2 71, 85% According to access, it was lower in retroperitoneal: 0.9% (95% CI 0.2%-4.8%) I2 76.96% and off-midline: 4.7% (95% CI 3.5%-6.4%) I2 91.59%. Regarding the location of the hernia, parastomal hernias were more frequent: 15.1% (95% CI 9.6% - 23%) I2 77.39%. Meta-regression shows a significant effect in reducing the proportion of hernias in open lateral, laparoscopic and hand-assisted compared to medial open access.

CONCLUSION

The present review finds the access through the midline and stomas as the ones with the highest incidence of incisional hernia. The use of the lateral approach or minimally invasive techniques is preferable. More prospective studies are warranted to obtain the real incidence of incisional hernias and evaluate the role of better techniques to close the abdomen.

Incisional hernias post renal transplant: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Incisional hernia (IH) post renal transplant (RT) is relatively uncommon and can be challenging to manage clinically due to the presence of the kidney graft and patient immunosuppression. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesises the current literature in relation to IH rates, risk factors and outcomes post RT.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched up to July 2023. The most up to date Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses guidelines were followed. Pertinent clinical information was synthesised. A meta-analysis of the pooled proportions of IH rates, the rates of patients requiring surgical repair and the rates of recurrence post RT are reported.

RESULTS

Twenty studies comprising 16,018 patients were included in this analysis. The pooled rate of IH occurrence post RT was 4% (CI 3-5%). The pooled rate of IH repair post RT was 61% (CI 14-100%). The pooled rate of IH recurrence after repair was 16% (CI 9-23%). Risk factors identified for IH development post RT are BMI, immunosuppression, age, smoking, incision type, reoperation, concurrent abdominal wall hernia, lymphocele formation and pulmonary disease.

CONCLUSIONS

IH post RT is uncommon and the majority of IH post RT are repaired surgically on an elective basis.

Outcomes of Head and Neck Microvascular Free Tissue Transfer for Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Comparison of Solid Organ Transplant Recipients to Nontransplant Patients

BACKGROUND

Patients with solid organ transplant (SOT) are at increased risk of developing aggressive cutaneous malignancies due to their immunosuppression, particularly cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC).

PURPOSE

There is limited data regarding SOT patients with locally advanced cSCC requiring radical surgery and microvascular free tissue transfer (MVFTT). Our objectives were to characterize outcomes in SOT patients and compare them with a non-SOT cohort.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing MVFTT for advanced cSCC of the head and neck between January 2016 and May 2020 at a tertiary referral center. Patients who underwent MVFTT as part of curative intent surgery for advanced cSCC during the study were considered for inclusion. Exclusion criteria included distant metastasis, palliative intent treatment, age less than 18 years, and lip primaries.

PREDICTOR

The predictor variable was SOT status. A cohort of non-SOT patients was matched to the SOT cohort based on age, smoking status, tumor stage, and defect size.

MAIN OUTCOME VARIABLES

The primary reconstructive outcome was the major surgical complications and secondary outcome measures included major medical complications and minor surgical complications. The primary oncologic outcome was overall survival and the secondary outcome was disease-specific survival. The primary predictor was transplant status.

COVARIATES

Covariates included patient comorbidities, prior treatment, tumor stage, type of reconstruction, pathologic findings, and adjuvant therapy.

ANALYSIS

Continuous and categorical variables were compared using Student's T test and Fisher's exact test. Survival was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and differences in survival between groups were calculated using the log-rank test. Statistical significance was set a priori at P ≤ .05.

RESULTS

Fourteen SOT and 14 matched non-SOT patients met inclusion criteria. There was not a statistically significant difference in the rate of major surgical complications (7 vs 7%, P = .74) between the SOT and non-SOT cohorts. Rates of minor (21 vs 43%, P = .26) wound complications and medical complications (0 vs 14%, P = .24) were also similar between the SOT and non-SOT cohorts. Locoregional recurrences and distant metastasis were more common for SOT patients, though this was not statistically significant. Overall survival was significantly worse for SOT patients (21.7 vs 31.0 months, P = .04), though there was not a significant difference in disease-free survival (9.8 vs 31.0 months, P = .17).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

MVFTT in the management of SOT patients with locally advanced head and neck cSCC demonstrates similar complication rates with non-SOT patients. While survival and oncologic outcomes are worse in the SOT cohort, aggressive surgical intervention with MVFTT can be performed with comparable complication rates to patients without a history of SOT.

Laparoscopic Surgery for Sigmoid Colon Cancer in a Patient With a History of Two Renal Transplantations and Peritoneal Dialysis

The development of transplantation technology has improved the prognosis of transplantation surgery; however, the negative impact of immunosuppressive drugs has increased the number of patients with cancer after transplantation. Recently, minimally invasive surgery has become more common for cancer treatment. We report our experience of performing laparoscopic sigmoid colon resection for a patient with a history of two renal transplantations and peritoneal dialysis. A 42-year-old male patient who developed purpura nephropathy underwent renal transplantation at ages eight and 34 years. He had been on peritoneal dialysis for five years before the second transplantation. The patient was referred to our department with the chief complaint of sudden abdominal pain. After an examination of imaging, we obtained a diagnosis of sigmoid colon cancer. Despite a history of peritoneal dialysis, laparoscopic sigmoid colon resection was successfully performed without complications after confirming that there were no adhesions in the abdominal cavity. The left lower port position had to be adjusted because the transplanted kidney protruded into the left iliac fossa. No postoperative complications and graft loss occurred. In this case, laparoscopic surgery was effective in lowering the risk of damage to the transplanted kidney and safely performing the procedure. The number of colorectal cancer cases in renal transplant patients is expected to increase, and some of these patients will have a history of peritoneal dialysis, which may make surgery more difficult. The successful outcome of this case highlights that laparoscopic surgery could be viable for patients with such a complex medical history.

mTor-inhibition within the first days after pediatric heart transplantation is a potentially safe option to prevent cardiac allograft vasculopathy

BACKGROUND

Immunosuppression after heart transplantation (HTX) with mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors serves as a prophylaxis against rejection and to treat coronary vascular injury. However, there is little data on the early, preventive use of everolimus after pediatric HTX.

METHODS

Retrospective study of 61 pediatric HTX patients (48 cardiomyopathy and 13 congenital heart disease), 28 females, median age 10.1 (range 0.1-17.9) years transplanted between 2008 and 2020. We analyzed survival, rejection, renal function, occurrence of lymphoproliferative disorder, and allograft vasculopathy together with adverse effects of early everolimus therapy combined with low-dose calcineurin inhibitors.

RESULTS

Everolimus therapy was started at a median 3.9 (1-14) days after HTX. Median follow-up was 4.3 (range 0.5-11.8) years, cumulative 184 patient years. The estimated 1- and 5-year survival probability was 89% (CI 82%:98%) and 87% (CI 78%:97%). Four patients developed rejection (6.6%) (maximum 2R ISHLT criteria). No patient suffered from chronic renal failure. Three patients (4.9%) developed post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder. Five patients suffered relevant wound-healing disorders after transplantation, four of them carrying relevant risk factors before HTX (mechanical circulatory support (n = 3), delayed chest closure after HTX (n = 3)). No recipient developed cardiac allograft vasculopathy.

CONCLUSION

Initiating everolimus within the first 14 days after HTX seems to be well tolerated, enabling a low incidence of rejection, post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders, renal failure, and reveals no evidence of cardiac allograft vasculopathy as well as good overall survival in pediatric heart transplant recipients.

Wound complications frequency in heart transplant recipients on mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors: A meta-analysis

A meta-analysis investigation was executed to measurethe wound complications (WCs) frequency in heart transplant (HT) recipients on mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (MTRIs). A comprehensive literature investigation till February 2023 was applied and 978 interrelated investigations were reviewed. The 10 chosen investigations enclosed 2173 individuals with HT were in the chosen investigations' starting point, 1164 of them were utilising MTRIs, and 1009 were utilising control. Odds ratio (OR) in addition to 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were utilised to compute the value of the WCs frequency in HT recipients on MTRIs by the dichotomous approaches and a fixed or random model. MTRIs had significantly higher WCs (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.19-1.98, P = .001) compared with those with control in individuals with HT. MTRIs had significantly higher WCs compared with those with control in individuals with HT. However, care must be exercised when dealing with its values because of the low number of the nominated investigations and the low sample size of some of the nominated investigations for the meta-analysis.

Prevention of incisional hernia after kidney transplantation: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Incisional hernia is a common complication after kidney transplantation with an incidence of 1.6-18%. Concerning non-transplant patients, a recently published meta-analysis describes a reduction of the incidence of incisional hernia of up to 85% due to prophylactic mesh replacement in elective, midline laparotomy. The aim of our study is to show a reduction of the incidence of incisional hernia after kidney transplantation with minimal risk for complication.

METHODS/DESIGN

This is a blinded, randomized controlled trial comparing time to incisional hernia over a period of 24 months between patients undergoing kidney transplantation and standardized abdominal closure with or without prophylactic placement of ProGrip™ (Medtronic, Fridley, MN, USA) mesh in an onlay position. As we believe that the mesh intervention is superior to the standard procedure in reducing the incidence of hernia, this is a superiority trial.

DISCUSSION

The high risk for developing incisional hernia following kidney transplantation might be reduced by prophylactic mesh placement. ProGrip™ mesh features polylactic acid (PLA) microgrips that provide immediate, strong and uniform fixation. The use of this mesh combines the effectiveness demonstrated by the macropore propylene meshes in the treatment of incisional hernias, a high simplicity of use provided by its capacity for self-fixation that does not increase significantly surgery time, and safety.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04794582. Registered on 08 March 2021. Protocol version 2.0. (02-18-2021).

Incidence, Risk Factors, and Management of Incisional Hernias After Kidney Transplant: A 20-Year Single Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Incisional hernias (IH) constitute a complication after kidney transplant (KT). Patients may be particularly at risk because of comorbidities and immunosuppression. The study aim was to assess the incidence, risk factors, and treatment of IH in patients undergoing KT.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included consecutive patients who underwent KT between January 1998 and December 2018. Patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative parameters, and IH repair characteristics were assessed. Postoperative outcomes included morbidity, mortality, need for reoperation, and length of stay (LOS). Patients who developed IH were compared with those who did not develop one.

RESULTS

Forty-seven patients (6.4%) developed an IH after a median delay of 14 months (IQR, 6-52 months) in 737 KTs. On uni- and multivariate analyses, body mass index (odds ratio [OR], 1.080; P = .020), pulmonary diseases (OR, 2.415; P = .012), postoperative lymphoceles (OR, 2.362; P = .018), and LOS (OR, 1.013; P = .044) were independent risk factors. Thirty-eight patients (81%) underwent operative IH repair, and 37 (97%) were treated with a mesh. The median LOS was 8 days (IQR, 6-11 days). Three patients (8%) developed surgical site infections, and 2 patients (5%) presented hematomas requiring surgical revision. After IH repair, 3 patients (8%) had a recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of IH after KT seems rather low. Overweight, pulmonary comorbidities, lymphoceles, and LOS were identified as independent risk factors. Strategies focusing on the modifiable patient-related risk factors and early detection and treatment of lymphoceles may help to decrease the risk of IH formation after KT.

Single incision simultaneous liver kidney transplantation: Feasibility and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, simultaneous liver kidney transplantation (SLK) has been performed using a subcostal incision for the liver allograft and a lower abdominal incision for kidney transplantation (dual incision, DI). At our institution, we performed SLK using a single subcostal incision (SI). The aim of this study was to report the outcomes of single versus dual incisions for SLK.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of consecutive SLK procedures performed at our center from January 2015 to April 2021 was performed. The demographic characteristics, complications, intraoperative findings, and complications after SI and DI were statistically compared.

RESULTS

A total 37 SLK were performed (19 DI and 18 SI). The age and indications for transplantation were comparable between the two groups. Patient in SI group had significantly higher MELD score (27.0 ± 1.5 vs. 31.7 ± 1.5, p = .038). The cold ischemic time of kidney transplantation (599 ± 26 min vs. 447 ± 27 min, p < .001) and the total surgical time (508 ± 21 min vs. 423 ± 22 min, p = .008) were significantly shorter in the SI group. The incidence of complications and post-transplant kidney function was comparable between the groups. A slightly higher incidence of surgical site complications was noted in the DI group without any statistically significance (p = .178).

CONCLUSIONS

Single-subcostal incision SLK is technically feasible and has comparable outcomes to dual-incision SLK. SI was associated with shorter cold ischemic time for kidney transplant, as well as shorter overall operative time.

Variation of ventral and incisional hernia repairs in kidney transplant recipients

INTRODUCTION

As survivorship following kidney transplant continues to improve, so does the probability of intervening on common surgical conditions, such as ventral or incisional hernia, in this population. Ventral hernia management is known to vary across institutions and this variation has an impact on patient outcomes. We sought to evaluate hospital level variation of ventral or incisional hernia repair (VIHR) in the kidney transplant population.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 100% inpatient Medicare claims to identify patients who underwent kidney transplant between 2007 and 2018. The primary outcome was 1- and 3-year ventral or incisional risk- and reliability-adjusted VIHR rates. Patient and hospital characteristics were evaluated across risk- and reliability-adjusted VIHR rate tertiles. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race, and Elixhauser comorbidities.

RESULTS

Overall, 139,741 patients underwent kidney transplant during the study period with a mean age (SD) of 51.6 (13.7) years. 84,717 (60.6%) were male, and 72,657 (52.0%) were white. Median follow up time was 5.4 years. 2098 (1.50%) patients underwent VIHR. the 1 year risk- and reliability-adjusted hernia repair rates were 0.49% (95% Conf idence Interval (CI) 0.48-0.51, range 0.31-0.59) in tertile 1, 0.63% (95% CI 0.62-0.63, range 0.59-0.68) in tertile 2, and 0.98 (95% CI 0.91-1.05, range 0.68-2.94) in tertile 3. Accordingly, compared to hospitals in tertile 1, the odds of post-transplant hernia repair tertile 2 hospitals were 1.78 (95% CI 1.37-2.31) and at tertile 3 hospitals 3.53 (95% CI 2.87-4.33).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large cohort of Medicare patients undergoing kidney transplant, the overall cumulative incidence of hernia repair varied substantially across hospital tertiles. Patient and hospital characteristics varied across tertile, most notably in diabetes and obesity. Future research is needed to understand if program and surgeon level factors are contributing to the observed variation in treatment of this common disease.

Improved Wound Healing by Naringin Associated with MMP and the VEGF Pathway

This study aims to investigate the wound-healing effectiveness of the phenolic compound, naringin, both in vitro and in vivo. Male mice were shaved on their dorsal skin under isoflurane, a biopsy punch was made in four symmetrical circular resection windows (6 mm) to induce a wound. These excision wounds were used to study the topical effects of naringin in terms of various biochemical, molecular, and histological parameters. We observed a significant recovery in the wound area. Increased levels of MMP-2, 9, 14, TIMP-2, VEGF-A, and VEGF-R1 were induced by naringin in the HaCaT cells. The time course experiments further revealed that levels of VEGF-A and B increased within 36 h; whereas levels of VEGF-C decreased. In line with this, VEGF-R3 levels, but not VEGF-R1 and 2 levels, increased soon after stimulation; although the increase subsided after 36 h. Additionally, naringin cream upregulated wound healing in vitro. The blockage of VEGF by Bevacizumab abolished the function of naringin cream on cell migration. Histological alterations in the wounded skin were restored by naringin cream, which accelerated wound healing via upregulated expression of growth factors (VEGF-A, B, and C and VEGF-R3), and thus increased MMP-2, 9, 14 expressions.

Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Inhibitors and Wound Healing Complications in Kidney Transplantation: Old Myths and New Realities

Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTOR-I) lacks nephrotoxicity, has antineoplastic effects, and reduces viral infections in kidney transplant recipients. Earlier studies reported a significant incidence of wound healing complications and lymphocele. This resulted in the uncomfortable willingness of transplant clinicians to use these agents in the immediate posttransplant period. As evidence and experience evolved over time, much useful information became available about the optimal use of these agents. Understandably, mTOR-I effects wound healing through their antiproliferative properties. However, there are a lot of other immunological and nonimmunological factors which can also contribute to wound healing complications. These risk factors include obesity, uremia, increasing age, diabetes, smoking, alcoholism, and protein-energy malnutrition. Except for age, the rest of all these risk factors are modifiable. At the same time, mycophenolic acid derivatives, steroids, and antithymocyte globulin (ATG) have also been implicated in wound healing complications. A lot has been learnt about the optimal dose of mTOR-I and their trough levels, its combinations with other immunosuppressive medications, and patients' profile, enabling clinicians to use these agents appropriately for maximum benefits. Recent randomized control trials have further increased the confidence of clinicians to use these agents in immediate posttransplant periods.

Incisional hernia repair after kidney transplantation in a tertiary high-volume center: outcomes from a 10-year retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Incisional hernia (IH) after Kidney Transplantation (KT) is a challenging complication due to both technical reasons and patients' complexity. Data regarding outcomes of hernia repair in KT recipients are uncertain, since the biggest part of previous papers focused on risk factors for incisional hernia occurrence and not on its outcomes. Aim of the study was to focus on risk factors for incisional hernia recurrence after surgical repair in KT recipients.

METHODS

Data regarding all consecutive patients undergoing kidney transplantations from January 2011 until September 2020 in Montpellier University Hospital were retrospectively collected from a single institutional database.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 48 months (IQR_25-75 31-59), data from 1546 consecutive KT were collected. 83 patients underwent 99 incisional hernia surgeries after KT, with 14 patients that had one recurrence (14.4%) and 2 patients that experienced two recurrences (2.4%). Total recurrence rate was 16.8%. At univariate analysis, the only factor associated with an incisional hernia recurrence was having undergone to at least one previous abdominal surgery other than KT (p value 0.002). Overall morbidity was 15% (n = 15), with most of complications classified as mild (59%). No mortality related to incisional hernia repair occurred.

CONCLUSION

IHs after KT represent an important condition. Its surgical management is challenging due to its anatomical complexity and patient's status. This is the largest sample size in the literature of patients treated for IH after KT and it shows that a previous surgery other than the KT is a risk factor for hernia recurrence after surgical repair, without regarding surgical technique or other comorbidity and therapeutical factors.

Surgical site complications in kidney transplant recipients: incidence, risk factors and outcomes in the modern era

BACKGROUND

Surgical site complications (SSCs) are an important source of morbidity after kidney transplantation. We assessed the incidence, risk factors, outcomes and economic impact of SSCs in a large, diverse population of kidney transplant recipients.

METHODS

We conducted a single-centre, observational cohort study of adult (age ≥ 18 yr) patients who underwent kidney transplantation between Jan. 1, 2005, and Dec. 31, 2015, with a minimum of 1 year of follow-up. Cases of SSC, including infections and wound dehiscence, were determined from patient records. Inpatient and outpatient hospital costs were determined 6 and 12 months after transplantation. We used the Kaplan-Meier product-limit method to determine the cumulative probability of SSCs and other outcomes. We evaluated risk factors and clinical outcomes using Cox proportional hazard ratios. Linear regression models were used to study the effect of SSCs on graft function.

RESULTS

The incidence rate of SSCs within 30 days after transplantation was 4.19 per 100 person-months. The cumulative probability of developing an SSC within 30 days after transplantation was 4.13% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.23%-5.28%). Increased recipient body mass index (BMI) (hazard ratio [HR] 1.07, 95% CI 1.02-1.11), longer cold ischemic time (HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-1.09) and transplantation in 2010-2012 versus 2005-2009 (HR 2.20, 95% CI 1.19-4.04) were risk factors for SSC development. In multivariable stepwise Cox proportional hazard models, SSC was a significant risk factor for death-censored graft failure (HR 3.08, 95% CI 1.60-5.90) and total graft failure (HR 2.09, 95% CI 1.32-3.32). Cumulative median hospital costs were $2238.46 greater for patients with an SSC than for those without.

CONCLUSION

Increased BMI, longer cold ischemic time and the 2010-2012 transplantation period predisposed to SSCs. The development of SSCs was associated with a higher risk of graft failure. Strategies to minimize SSCs may improve outcomes after kidney transplantation and reduce costs.

Impact of everolimus on survival after liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This study aimed to investigate whether everolimus (EVR) affects long-term survival after liver transplantation (LT) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

The data from 303 consecutive patients with HCC who had undergone LT from January 2012 to July 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: 1) patients treated with EVR in combination with calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) (EVR group; n=114) and 2) patients treated with CNI-based therapy without EVR (non-EVR group; n=189). Time to recurrence (TTR) and overall survival (OS) after propensity score (PS) matching were compared between the groups, and prognostic factors for TTR and OS were evaluated.

RESULTS

The EVR group exhibited more aggressive tumor biology than the non-EVR group, such as a higher number of tumors (P=0.003), a higher prevalence of microscopic vascular invasion (P=0.017) and exceeding Milan criteria (P=0.029). Compared with the PS-matched non-EVR group, the PS-matched EVR group had significantly better TTR (P<0.001) and OS (P<0.001). In multivariable analysis, EVR was identified as an independent prognostic factor for TTR (hazard ratio [HR], 0.248; P=0.001) and OS (HR, 0.145; P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Combined with CNIs, EVR has the potential to prolong long-term survival in patients undergoing LT for HCC. These findings warrant further investigation in a well-designed prospective study.

Peritoneal flap hernioplasty for repair of incisional hernias after orthotopic liver transplantation

Background

Repair of incisional hernias following orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is a surgical challenge due to concurrent midline and transverse abdominal wall defects in the context of lifelong immunosuppression. The peritoneal flap hernioplasty addresses this problem by using flaps of the hernial sac to bridge the fascial gap and isolate the mesh from both the intraperitoneal contents and the subcutaneous space, exploiting the retro-rectus space medially and the avascular plane between the internal and external oblique muscles laterally. We report our short and long-term results of 26 consecutive liver transplant cases with incisional hernias undergoing repair with the peritoneal flap technique.

Methods

Post-OLT patients undergoing elective peritoneal flap hernioplasty for incisional hernias from Jan 1, 2010–Nov 1, 2017 were identified from the Lothian Surgical Audit system (LSA), a prospectively-maintained computer database of all surgical procedures in the Edinburgh region of south-east Scotland. Patient demographics and clinical data were obtained from the hospital case-notes. Follow-up data were obtained in Feb 2020.

Results

A total of 517 liver transplantations were performed during the inclusion period. Twenty-six of these (18 males, 69%) developed an incisional hernia and underwent a peritoneal flap repair. Median mesh size (Optilene Elastic, 48 g/m², BBraun) was 900 cm² (range 225–1500 cm²). The median time to repair following OLT was 33 months (range 12–70 months). Median follow-up was 54 months (range 24–115 months) and median postoperative stay was 5 days (range 3–11 days). Altogether, three patients (12%) presented with postoperative complications: 1 with hematoma (4%) and two with chronic pain (8%). No episodes of infection or symptomatic seroma were recorded. No recurrence was recorded within the follow-up period.

Conclusion

Repair of incisional hernias in patients following liver transplantation with the Peritoneal Flap Hernioplasty is a safe procedure associated with few complications and a very low recurrence rate. We propose this technique for the reconstruction of incisional hernias following liver transplantation.

Risk Factors and Optimal Methods for Incisional Hernias After Kidney Transplantation: A Single-Center Experience From Asia

BACKGROUND

For kidney transplant patients, incisional hernia (IH) is a major complication resulting from prolonged pretransplant dialysis, immunosuppressive drugs, and the high prevalence of diabetes. However, there have been relatively few studies of IH after kidney transplantation (KT) in Japan and in the greater Asian population. Additionally, operative methods for IH repair have not been established.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 465 consecutive patients who underwent KT at our hospital from April 2013 to March 2019. Patients who underwent incisional hernia repair were included in this study, and the follow-up time was extended to September 2020. We defined severe IH as an IH requiring surgical repair. We examine the risk factors for severe IH among KT patients and also discuss the operative methods of IH repair.

RESULTS

During the study period, 7 patients developed severe IH after KT. The cumulative occurrence rate for severe IH was 1.1% 1 year postoperatively. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that age at KT and dialysis duration (hazard ratio = 1.112, P = .016; hazard ratio = 1.106, respectively; P = .038) were independent risk factors for severe IH. We used polypropylene mesh for IH repair in all cases, with onlay repair performed in 5 of 7 cases. There was no recurrence or infection after mesh repair during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, age at KT and dialysis duration were independent risk factors for severe IH in the Japanese population. Onlay repair with a polypropylene mesh appeared to be a safe and acceptable operation for IH repair after KT.

Oral mucositis after tacrolimus/sirolimus or cyclosporine/methotrexate as graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether treatment with tacrolimus plus sirolimus (Tac/Sir) as a prophylaxis for graft-versus-host disease worsens severe oral mucositis and delays healing compared to cyclosporine plus methotrexate (CsA/Mtx) following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The study comprised 141 patients: 73 randomized to receive Tac/Sir and 68 to receive CsA/Mtx. The oral mucositis assessment scale and toxicity grading according to WHO were used to assess the severity, peak and duration of oral mucositis from the day -3 to day 24 post-transplant.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven patients developed oral mucositis in the first 24 days post-transplant. No significant difference in oral mucositis severity between the Tac/Sir and CsA/Mtx groups was observed. The peak oral mucositis score occurred on day 10 in both groups. Although oral mucositis scores had returned to baseline in the CsA/Mtx group on day 24 post-transplant, no significant difference compared with the Tac/Sir group was found.

CONCLUSIONS

The introduction of tacrolimus/sirolimus as a graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis in haematopoietic stem cell transplantation increased neither the incidence nor severity of oral mucositis compared with cyclosporine/methotrexate. Furthermore, oral mucositis healing was not prolonged and followed the same time pattern as cyclosporine/methotrexate.

Wound healing adverse events in kidney transplant recipients receiving everolimus with reduced calcineurin inhibitor exposure or current standard-of-care: insights from the 24-month TRANSFORM study

OBJECTIVES

In TRANSFORM, de novo kidney transplant recipients received either everolimus in combination with reduced-exposure calcineurin inhibitor (EVR+rCNI) at standard EVR pre-dose concentrations of 3-8 ng/mL or mycophenolic acid plus standard-exposure CNI (MPA+sCNI). The authors analyzed the incidence of wound healing adverse events (WHAEs) over the 2-year study period 15.

METHODS

Patients were randomized to either EVR+rCNI or MPA+sCNI, both combined with induction therapy and steroids 19.

RESULTS

The safety population consisted of 2,026 patients (EVR+rCNI: 1,014, MPA+sCNI: 1,012). The proportion of patients with at least 1 WHAE was comparable between EVR+rCNI and MPA+sCNI treatment groups [20.6% vs. 17.3%; risk ratio (RR): 1.19; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.99, 1.43] at month 24. The numerical difference between EVR+rCNI and MPA+sCNI was mainly caused by an increased proportion of EVR patients with lymphocele and wound dehiscence [7.5% vs. 5.1% (RR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.04, 2.05) and 3.9% vs. 1.8% (RR: 2.22; 95%CI: 1.28, 3.84), respectively] 20.

CONCLUSION

The immediate introduction of EVR+rCNI after kidney transplantation was associated with an overall comparable incidence of WHAEs versus current standard-of-care over the 24-month study period. There was an increased relative risk of experiencing lymphocele and wound dehiscence but the absolute risks were rather low in both groups 21.

CT.GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT01950819.

Perforator Free Flap Coverage of Chronic Lower Extremity Ulcers in Patients With Autoimmune Diseases Under Immunosuppression

Objectives. Lower extremity ulcers are quite common in patients with autoimmune diseases. Due to chronic use of immunosuppressants, these wounds may develop into deeper wounds resulting in exposure of bone or tendon, which in turn may require free tissue transfers for coverage. The author reviewed perforator free flap transfers performed in this group of patients and analyzed the results. Methods. A retrospective review was performed on all patients who underwent perforator free flap transfer for coverage of lower extremity ulcers without trauma, over a 10-year period. Patient demographics, administered immunosuppressants, and flap and donor site complications were analyzed. Results. Twenty-two perforator free flap transfers were performed in patients with autoimmune diseases, including 18 thoracodorsal perforator flaps, 2 anterolateral thigh flaps, and 2 deep inferior epigastric artery flaps. There was no total flap loss, but there was a high rate of partial flap necrosis (40.9%) and wound dehiscence (40.9%). Intake of corticosteroids was significantly associated with postoperative complications ( P < .05). Conclusion. As partial loss of flap and wound dehiscence is much more common in this group of patients, treatment may take longer, and a fully informed consent should be obtained preoperatively. Surgeons should not avoid performing perforator free flap transfers in patients with autoimmune diseases under immunosuppression; instead, much more preparation and caution are required.

Consensus on definition and severity grading of lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND

The incidence of lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation varies considerably in the literature. This is partly because a universally accepted definition has not been established. This study aimed to propose an acceptable definition and severity grading system for lymphatic complications based on their management strategy.

METHODS

Relevant literature published in MEDLINE and Web of Science was searched systematically. A consensus for definition and a severity grading was then sought between 20 high-volume transplant centres.

RESULTS

Lymphorrhoea/lymphocele was defined in 32 of 87 included studies. Sixty-three articles explained how lymphatic complications were managed, but none graded their severity. The proposed definition of lymphorrhoea was leakage of more than 50 ml fluid (not urine, blood or pus) per day from the drain, or the drain site after removal of the drain, for more than 1 week after kidney transplantation. The proposed definition of lymphocele was a fluid collection of any size near to the transplanted kidney, after urinoma, haematoma and abscess have been excluded. Grade A lymphatic complications have a minor and/or non-invasive impact on the clinical management of the patient; grade B complications require non-surgical intervention; and grade C complications require invasive surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION

A clear definition and severity grading for lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation was agreed. The proposed definitions should allow better comparisons between studies.

Incisional hernia repair outcome after renal transplantation in a reference center. Our experience of 7 years

INTRODUCTION

Incisional hernias secondary to renal transplantation (IHRT) are considered complex hernias because they are lateral to the sheath of the rectus abdominis muscle. The presence of the graft in the iliac fossa and the proximity to the inguinal area, costal margin and iliac bones, as zones with difficult fixation for prostheses, increases repair complexity. In addition, these patients have specific characteristics, such as treatment with immunosuppressive medication, that could alter postoperative evolution. The objective of this study was to analyze the results obtained in IHRT repair at a tertiary hospital, and to compare these data with the international literature.

METHODS

Retrospective observational study of patients treated surgically for IHRT in our unit from January 1, 2011 to January 31, 2018. Preoperative conditions, intraoperative factors and postoperative complications during follow-up were analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients underwent hernia repair, finding a 4% hernia recurrence rate during a median follow-up of 27.5 months (20-39). The most frequently used technique was the posterior transversus abdominis release component separation technique in 42%, followed by preperitoneal repair in 27% and interoblique repair in 12%. The overall postoperative morbidity was 23%, which was frequently related to the surgical site (12%).

CONCLUSIONS

IHRT repair is a safe procedure at our medical center, with an acceptable rate of hernia recurrence, but it is not without complications.

Safety of Everolimus With Reduced Calcineurin Inhibitor Exposure in De Novo Kidney Transplants: An Analysis From the Randomized TRANSFORM Study

BACKGROUND

The safety profiles of standard therapy versus everolimus with reduced-exposure calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) therapy using contemporary protocols in de novo kidney transplant recipients have not been compared in detail.

METHODS

TRANSFORM was a randomized, international trial in which de novo kidney transplant patients were randomized to everolimus with reduced-exposure CNI (N = 1014) or mycophenolic acid (MPA) with standard-exposure CNI (N = 1012), both with induction and corticosteroids.

RESULTS

Within the safety population (everolimus 1014, MPA 1012), adverse events with a suspected relation to study drug occurred in 62.9% versus 59.2% of patients given everolimus or MPA, respectively (P = 0.085). Hyperlipidemia, interstitial lung disease, peripheral edema, proteinuria, stomatitis/mouth ulceration, thrombocytopenia, and wound healing complications were more frequent with everolimus, whereas diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, leukopenia, tremor, and insomnia were more frequent in the MPA group. The incidence of viral infections (17.2% versus 29.2%; P < 0.001), cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections (8.1% versus 20.1%; P < 0.001), CMV syndrome (13.6% versus 23.0%, P = 0.044), and BK virus (BKV) infections (4.3% versus 8.0%, P < 0.001) were less frequent with everolimus. CMV infection was less common with everolimus versus MPA after adjusting for prophylaxis therapy in the D+/R- subgroup (P < 0.001). Study drug was discontinued more frequently due to rejection or impaired healing with everolimus, and more often due to BKV infection or BKV nephropathy with MPA.

CONCLUSIONS

De novo everolimus with reduced-exposure CNI yielded a comparable incidence, though a distinctly different pattern, of adverse events versus current standard of care. Both regimens are safe and effective, yet their distinct profiles may enable tailoring for individual kidney transplant recipients.

Prospective randomized study comparing everolimus and mycophenolate sodium in de novo kidney transplant recipients from expanded criteria deceased donor

The optimal immunosuppressive regimen for recipients of expanded criteria donor (ECD) kidneys has not been identified. In this single-center study, 171 recipients of ECD kidney transplants were randomized to receive antithymocyte globulin induction, and delayed introduction of reduced dose tacrolimus, prednisone and everolimus (r-ATG/EVR, n = 88), or mycophenolate (r-ATG/MPS, n = 83). No cytomegalovirus (CMV) pharmacological prophylaxis was used. The primary endpoint was the incidence of CMV infection/disease at 12 months. Secondary endpoints included treatment failure [first biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), graft loss, or death] and safety. Patients treated with EVR showed a 89% risk reduction (13.6 vs. 71.6%; HR 0.11, 95% CI 0.06-0.220, P < 0.001) in the incidence of first CMV infection/disease. Incidences of BPAR (16% vs. 5%, P = 0.021), graft loss (11% vs. 1%, P = 0.008), death (10% vs. 1%, P = 0.013), and treatment discontinuation (40% vs. 28%, P = 0.12) were higher in the r-ATG/EVR, leading to premature study termination. Mean glomerular filtration rate was lower in r-ATG/EVR (31.8 ± 18.8 vs. 42.6 ± 14.9, P < 0.001). In recipients of ECD kidney transplants receiving no CMV pharmacological prophylaxis, the use of everolimus was associated with higher treatment failure compared with mycophenolate despite the significant reduction in the incidence of CMV infection/disease (ClinicalTrials.gov.NCT01895049).

Outcomes of Ventral Hernia Repair in Solid Organ Transplant Patients: A Regression Analysis of the National Inpatient Sample

BACKGROUND

Solid organ transplant has been identified as an independent risk factor in ventral hernia repair. Previous studies have generally focused on case studies or small samples. We sought to investigate the impact of liver or kidney transplant on ventral hernia repair outcomes using a nationally representative sample.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample was used to identify ventral hernia repairs from years 2005 to 2014. We then divided them into two groups, patients with prior solid organ transplant and those without, and used logistic regression to analyze the effect of this variable on outcomes. We then investigated the relationship between various comorbidities and 30-d outcomes of surgery in both groups after adjusting for comorbidities. The primary outcome we looked at was mortality, with secondary outcomes such as length of stay and various surgical complications.

RESULTS

We compared two groups consisting of patients with prior transplant (n = 3317) and patients without (n = 372,775) and found that patients with prior liver or kidney transplant did not have higher mortality rates and also did not have longer lengths of stay. In addition, in terms of preoperative variables, patients with transplant were more likely to have the following comorbidities: cardiac arrhythmia, chronic blood loss anemia, chronic pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, depression, metastatic cancer, obesity, psychoses, solid tumor without metastasis, and weight loss. Diabetes was associated with higher mortality in transplant patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients without prior liver or kidney transplant did not have higher mortality rates or lengths of stay.

Cyclodextrin Polymer Preserves Sirolimus Activity and Local Persistence for Antifibrotic Delivery over the Time Course of Wound Healing

Fibrosis and dysphagic stricture of the esophagus is a major unaddressed problem often accompanying endoscopic removal of esophageal cancers and precancerous lesions. While weekly injections of antiproliferative agents show potential for improved healing, repeated injections are unlikely clinically and may alternatively be replaced by creating an esophageal drug delivery system. Affinity-based polymers have previously shown success for continuous delivery of small molecules for weeks to months. Herein, we explored the potential of an affinity-based microparticle to provide long-term release of an antiproliferative drug, sirolimus. In molecular docking simulations and surface plasmon resonance experiments, sirolimus was found to have suitable affinity for beta-cyclodextrin, while dextran, as a low affinity control, was validated. Polymerized beta-cyclodextrin microparticles exhibited 30 consecutive days of delivery of sirolimus during in vitro release studies. In total, the polymerized beta-cyclodextrin microparticles released 36.9 mg of sirolimus per milligram of polymer after one month of incubation in vitro. Taking daily drug release aliquots and applying them to PT-K75 porcine mucosal fibroblasts, we observed that cyclodextrin microparticle delivery preserved bioactivity of sirolimus inhibiting proliferation by 27-67% and migration of fibroblasts by 28-100% of buffer treated controls in vitro. Testing for esophageal injection site losses, no significant loss was incurred under simulated saliva flow for 10 min, and 16.7% of fluorescently labeled polymerized cyclodextrin microparticle signal was retained at 28 days after submucosal injection in esophageal tissue ex vivo versus only 4% of the initial amount remaining for free dye molecules injected alone. By combining affinity-based drug delivery for continuous long-term release with a microparticle platform that is injectable yet remains localized in tissue interstitium, this combination platform demonstrates promise for preventing esophageal fibrosis and stricture.

Imaging non-vascular complications of renal transplantation

In patients with end-stage renal disease, the treatment of choice for most patients is renal transplantation. Complications that occur after kidney transplant can be broadly divided into vascular and non-vascular categories. Non-vascular complications can further be divided into surgical and medical categories. When evaluating renal transplant imaging, it is helpful to consider the occurrence of complications in a timeline from time of surgery. Ultrasound is often the first modality used for evaluation of renal transplants particularly in the early postoperative period. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound can be a helpful adjunct in evaluating certain complications such as hematoma, rejection, and infection. Computed tomography (CT) is also helpful in accurately diagnosing complications. Surgical complications include perinephric fluid collections (hematoma, urinoma from urine leak, abscess, and lymphocele), urinary obstruction, and incisional fluid collections and hernias. One major category of medical complications that affect the renal parenchyma includes rejection (hyperacute, acute, and chronic), delayed graft function, acute tubular necrosis (ATN), and nephrotoxicity. Infection, renal calculi, and neoplasms such as post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease are medical complications that occur after renal transplantation. It is important for radiologists to be aware of the ultrasound and CT findings of the surgical and medical complications after renal transplant for prompt identification and treatment.

Optimal surgical management in kidney and pancreas transplantation to minimise wound complications: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Immunosuppression in transplant patients increases the risk of wound complications. However, an optimal surgical approach to kidney and pancreas transplantation can minimise this risk.

Materials and methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine factors contributing to incisional hernia formation in kidney and pancreas transplant recipients. Bias appraisal of studies was conducted via the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. We considered recipient factors, surgical methods, and complications of repair.

Results

The rate of incisional hernia formation in recipients of kidney and pancreas transplants was 4.4% (CI 95% 2.6-7.3, p < 0.001). Age above or below 50 years did not predict hernia formation (Q (1) = 0.09, p = 0.77). Body mass index (BMI) above 25 (10.8%, CI 95% 3.2-30.9, p < 0.001) increased the risk of an incisional hernia. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) use significantly reduced the risk of incisional hernia from 11.9% (CI 95% 4.3-28.7, p < 0.001) to 3.8% (CI 95% 2.5-5.7, p < 0.001), Q (1) = 4.25, p = 0.04. Sirolimus significantly increased the rate of incisional hernia formation from 3.7% (CI 95% 1.7-7.1, p < 0.001) to 18.1% (CI 95% 11.7-27, p < 0.001), Q (1) = 13.97, p < 0.001. While paramedian (4.1% CI 95% 1.7-9.4, p < 0.001) and Rutherford-Morrison incisions (5.6% CI 95% 2.5-11.7, p < 0.001) were associated with a lower rate of hernia compared to hockey-stick incisions (8.5% CI 95% 3.1-21.2, p < 0.001) these differences were not statistically significant (Q (1) = 1.38, p = 0.71). Single layered closure (8.1% CI 95% 4.9-12.8, p < 0.001) compared to fascial closure (6.1% CI 95% 3.4-10.6, p < 0.001) did not determine the rate of hernia formation [Q (1) = 0.55, p = 0.46].

Conclusions

Weight reduction and careful immunosuppression selection can reduce the risk of a hernia. Rutherford-Morrison incisions along with single-layered closure represent a safe and effective technique reducing operating time and costs.

Decreased Acute Rejection and Improved Renal Allograft Survival Using Sirolimus and Low-Dose Calcineurin Inhibitors without Induction Therapy

Background

Chronic nephrotoxicity of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) causes irreversible renal dysfunction and shortens renal transplant survival. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to test a hypothesis that de novo CNI minimization combined with sirolimus (SRL) improves graft survival in renal transplant patients without antibody induction therapy.

Methods

Between October 2000 and August 2007, we performed 100 cases of renal transplantation with de novo CNI (either cyclosporine or tacrolimus) minimization combined with sirolimus (SRL group). The initial target trough levels were 100–200 ng/ml for cyclosporine (CsA) and 4–8 ng/mL for tacrolimus (TAC). SRL was given at a loading dose of 6 mg plus 2 mg/day for maintenance. The results for the SRL group were compared to those of 104 transplant recipients given standard CNI- (CsA- or TAC-) based immunosuppressive regimens including mycophenolate mofetil (MMF group) during the same period.

Results

The 1-year rejection-free survival (94.8%) and 5-year graft survival (87.7%) rates of the SRL group were significantly better than those of the MMF group (85.5% and 75.2%, respectively). On univariate analyses, 6-month estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), acute rejection and SRL therapy had a significant impact on graft survival, and SRL therapy and tacrolimus therapy had a significant impact on rejection-free survival. Multivariate analyses identified 6-month eGFR as the only prognostic factor for graft survival. Acute rejection and SRL therapy were significant for post-transplant renal function.

Conclusions

De novo CNI minimization combined with SRL could decrease acute rejection and improve renal function and graft survival after renal transplantation without the use of antibody induction therapy.

Wound Healing Complications in Kidney Transplant Recipients Receiving Everolimus

BACKGROUND

De novo use of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors after kidney transplantation is associated with a concentration-dependent incidence of wound healing adverse events (WHAE). The objective of this analysis was to compare the incidence of WHAE in patients receiving everolimus (EVR) or mycophenolate sodium (MPS).

METHODS

This was a predefined subanalysis of a single-center prospective randomized study in which 288 kidney transplant recipients receiving tacrolimus and prednisone were randomized for 3 different regimens: rabbit antithymocyte globulin (r-ATG)/EVR (N = 85); basiliximab (BAS)/EVR (N = 102); BAS/MPS (N = 101). Clinical WHAE were prospectively collected using a prespecified case report form in all study visits. Abdominal ultrasound was performed at 30 days posttransplant to capture subclinical abnormalities. Surgeons were blinded to randomized treatment and no specific surgical procedures were implemented.

RESULTS

A higher proportion of patients in BAS/EVR showed at least 1 clinical WHAE (22.3% vs 35.3% vs 22.0%, P = 0.03) and total clinical and subclinical WHAE (35% vs 42% vs 26%, P = 0.014) compared with BAS/MPS, respectively. A higher proportion of patients in r-ATG/EVR showed subclinical WHAE (13% vs 7% vs 4%, P = 0.025) compared with BAS/MPS, respectively. Patients receiving EVR showed a higher risk of developing clinical or subclinical WHAE (r-ATG/EVR vs BAS/MPS hazard ratio 1.30; BAS/EVR vs BAS/MPS hazard ratio 1.73, P = 0.028).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of de novo kidney transplant recipients receiving tacrolimus and prednisone, the use of EVR was associated with higher incidence of combined clinical and subclinical WHAE compared with MPS.

Belatacept and Eculizumab for Treatment of Calcineurin Inhibitor-induced Thrombotic Microangiopathy After Kidney Transplantation: Case Report

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) after kidney transplantation is an uncommon and challenging cause of graft dysfunction and is associated with early graft loss. An idiosyncratic endothelial reaction to calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) has been implicated as a frequent cause of TMA. This reaction is marked by uncontrolled activation of complement and subsequent cellular destruction. Usual therapy consists of withdrawal of the inciting drug and plasmapheresis to minimize levels of circulating complement. Recently, eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody to complement component C5, has been used for the treatment of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Belatacept, an inhibitor of T cell costimulatory protein CTLA-4 has been used in immunosuppression strategies aimed at minimization of CNI. Here we report the first case of treatment of CNI-associated TMA/hemolytic uremic syndrome with withdrawal of tacrolimus and initiation of both belatacept and eculizumab. The case describes a favorable clinical course for both graft and patient, and is accompanied by a review of the literature.

Effectiveness and versatility of biological prosthesis in transplanted patients

AIM

To emphasize the effectiveness and versatility of prosthesis, and good tolerance by patients with incisional hernia (IH).

METHODS

From December 2001 to February 2016, 270 liver transplantations were performed at San Camillo Hospital. IH occurred in 78 patients (28.8%). IH usually appeared early within the first year post-orthotopic liver transplantation. In the first era, fascial defect was repaired by primary closure for defects smaller than 2.5 cm or with synthetic mesh for greater defects. Recently, we started using biological mesh (Permacol™, Covidien). We present a series of five transplanted patients submitted to surgery for abdominal wall defect correction repaired with biological mesh (Permacol™, Covidien).

RESULTS

In our cases, the use of biological prosthesis (Permacol™, Covidien) have proven to be effective and versatile in repairing hernia defects of different kinds; patients did not suffer infections of the prosthesis and no recurrence was observed. Furthermore, the prosthesis remains intact even in the years after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The cases that we presented show that the use of biological mesh (Permacol™, Covidien) in transplanted patients may be safe and effective, being careful in the management of perioperative immunosuppression and renal and graft function, although the cost of the product itself has been the main limiting factor and there is need for prospective studies for further evaluations.

Role of mTOR Inhibitors in Kidney Disease

The first compound that inhibited the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), sirolimus (rapamycin) was discovered in the 1970s as a soil bacterium metabolite collected on Easter Island (Rapa Nui). Because sirolimus showed antiproliferative activity, researchers investigated its molecular target and identified the TOR1 and TOR2. The mTOR consists of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. Rapalogues including sirolimus, everolimus, and temsirolimus exert their effect mainly on mTORC1, whereas their inhibitory effect on mTORC2 is mild. To obtain compounds with more potent antiproliferative effects, ATP-competitive inhibitors of mTOR targeting both mTORC1 and mTORC2 have been developed and tested in clinical trials as anticancer drugs. Currently, mTOR inhibitors are used as anticancer drugs against several solid tumors, and immunosuppressive agents for transplantation of various organs. This review discusses the role of mTOR inhibitors in renal disease with a particular focus on renal cancer, diabetic nephropathy, and kidney transplantation.

Energetic interventions for healthspan and resiliency with aging

Several behavioral and pharmacological strategies improve longevity, which is indicative of delayed organismal aging, with the most effective interventions extending both life- and healthspan. In free living creatures, maintaining health and function into old age requires resilience against a multitude of stressors. Conversely, in experimental settings, conventional housing of rodents limits exposure to such challenges, thereby obscuring an accurate assessment of resilience. Caloric restriction (CR) and exercise, as well as pharmacologic strategies (resveratrol, rapamycin, metformin, senolytics), are well established to improve indices of health and aging, but some paradoxical effects have been observed on resilience. For instance, CR potently retards the onset of age-related diseases, and improves lifespan to a greater extent than exercise in a variety of models. However, exercise has proven more consistently beneficial to organismal resilience against a broad array of stressors, including infections, surgery, wound healing and frailty. CR can improve cellular stress defenses and protect from frailty, but also impairs the response to infections, bed rest and healing. How an intervention will impact not only longevity, health and function, but also resiliency, is critical to better understanding translational implications. Thus, organismal robustness represents a critical, albeit understudied aspect of aging, which needs more careful attention in order to better inform on how putative age-delaying strategies will impact preservation of health and function in response to stressors with aging in humans.

Sirolimus Use in Liver Transplant Recipients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Randomized, Multicenter, Open-Label Phase 3 Trial

We investigated whether sirolimus-based immunosuppression improves outcomes in liver transplantation (LTx) candidates with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

In a large prospective randomized open-label international trial, liver transplant recipients for HCC were randomized to receive non-mTOR-inhibitor-based-treatment or mTOR-inhibitor-based-treatment. Results indicate overall sirolimus does not improve long-term recurrence-free survival beyond 5 years while a benefit was seen in low-risk patients. Supplemental digital content is available in the text.

Reconstructive surgery in immunocompromised patients: evaluation and therapy

Background: An increasing number of patients undergoing reconstructive surgery are immunocompromised due to different reasons and different medical treatments. Some of the used immunosuppressive drugs may affect the process of wound healing and thereby, impair the long-term success of surgical treatment. Therefore, this retrospective analysis aimed at the evaluation of the perioperative treatment and surgical outcome of immunocompromised patients undergoing different reconstructive procedures.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed of 8 immunocompromised patients with different primary diseases who needed reconstructive surgery: 2 patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, 1 patient with an acute myeloid leukemia, 1 patient with colitis ulcerosa, 1 patient with liver cirrhosis, 1 patient with chronic polyarthritis, and 2 patients with malignant melanoma.

Results: In 7 of our 8 presented cases, multiple operations with wound debridements have been necessary to optimize the granulation of the wound bed before reconstructive surgery. 3 out of these 7 patients required further operations due to wound dehiscence or necrosis, with 2 of them as a result of increased immunosuppressive therapy. 5 out of 8 patients needed no further surgical treatment.

Conclusions: Both the perioperative drug therapy and the reconstructive surgery concept need to be determined carefully in each individual case of the immunocompromised patients. Thus, the appropriate point in time of operation to achieve the best possible wound healing as well as the complexity of the procedure will require the consideration of a ‘less is more’ strategy in selected cases.

Incidence and risk factors of incisional hernia formation following abdominal organ transplantation

BACKGROUND

Hernia formation is common following abdominal operations, and transplant patients are at increased risk due to postoperative immunosuppression. The purpose of this study was to estimate the incidence of incisional hernia formation following primary abdominal solid organ transplantation and identify clinical risk factors for hernia formation.

METHODS

We performed a single-institution retrospective review of a prospectively collected database to evaluate all patients who underwent primary liver, kidney, or pancreas transplantation between 2000 and 2011. The primary outcome was hernia formation at the transplant incision. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify risk factors for incisional hernia formation.

RESULTS

A total of 3,460 transplants were performed during the study period: 2,247 kidney only, 718 liver only, and 495 pancreas or simultaneous pancreas and kidney (pancreas group). The overall incisional hernia rate was 7.5 %. The Kaplan-Meier rates of hernia formation at 1, 5, and 10 years were 2.5, 4.9, and 7.0 % for kidney; 4.5, 13.6, and 19.0 % for liver; and 2.5, 12.7, and 21.8 % for the pancreas groups. On univariate analysis, surgical site infection (SSI), body mass index (BMI) >25, delayed graft function, and withholding a calcineurin inhibitor or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) were associated with hernia formation in the kidney group. SSI and BMI >25 were associated with hernia formation in the liver group. In the pancreas group, SSI, cyclosporine, and withholding MMF were all associated with hernia formation. On multivariate analysis, SSI was strongly associated with hernia formation in all groups. Hazard ratio: kidney = 24.71 (13.00-46.97); liver = 12.0 (6.40-22.52); pancreas = 12.95 (2.78-60.29).

CONCLUSION

Incisional hernias are common following abdominal organ transplant with nearly one in five patients developing an incisional hernia 5 years after liver or pancreas transplantation. Strategies focusing on prevention and early treatment of SSI may help to decrease the risk of incisional hernia formation following abdominal organ transplantation.

Percutaneous cryoablation for tuberous sclerosis-associated renal angiomyolipoma with neoadjuvant mTOR inhibition

Background

Renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs) are frequent in tuberous sclerosis and are responsible for a significant proportion of the morbidity in adulthood, mainly from bleeding complications, which are correlated to the size of the AMLs. We describe the case of a 19-year-old female with multiple bilateral renal angiomyolipomas.

Case presentation

The renal AMLs measured up to 6 cm in size. She was first treated with a low dose of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor sirolimus (up to 3 mg/day over a 12-month period) and following significant AML size reduction, percutaneous cryoablation was performed. No side-effects of either treatment were reported. At 12 months post-cryoablation, no recurrence of the AML was noted.

Conclusion

This is the first report of this treatment strategy and the case study reveals that combining a low dose of an mTOR inhibitor with percutaneous cryoablation to treat small tumors mitigates the side-effects while providing a good clinical outcome. This therapeutic approach is a novel tool for the clinician involved in the management of patients with tuberous sclerosis.

The effects of immunosuppressive medications on outcomes in microvascular free tissue transfer

BACKGROUND

Reported 10-year patient survival after liver transplantation is nearing 70 percent, with similar trends seen for kidney transplantation. With increasing life expectancy, these patients have an increased need for posttransplant reconstructive surgery. Thus, plastic surgeons must know the effects of immunosuppressive medications on outcomes in microvascular reconstruction.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed on all immunosuppressed solid-organ transplant patients who underwent subsequent free tissue transfer of all types, over an 8-year period. Patient demographics, type of solid organ transplant, immunosuppressive regimen, anticoagulation regimen, associated medical comorbidities, and complication rates were analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-four microvascular free tissue transfers were performed over an 8-year period on immunosuppressed patients, for head and neck and lower extremity reconstruction. Fifteen patients (63 percent) underwent prior kidney transplant, seven (29 percent) underwent prior liver transplant, and two (8 percent) underwent prior lung transplant. Prednisone (79 percent of patients), cyclosporine (33 percent), and tacrolimus (33 percent) were the most commonly used immunosuppressive medications. Complications included one total flap loss (4 percent), three intraoperative arterial thromboses (13 percent), and two postoperative venous thromboses (8 percent). Univariate analysis illustrated a statistically significant association between prednisone and overall complication rate (p = 0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

Microvascular free tissue transfer is a challenge in immunosuppressed patients. Univariate analysis showed prednisone to correlate statistically with operative morbidity. Transplant patients receiving prednisone at the time of their elective free flap procedure will require additional care to lower the additional risk of delayed wound healing, partial flap loss, and anastomotic thrombosis.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Angiosarcoma successfully treated with liver transplantation and sirolimus

Malignant liver tumors represent approximately 1% of malignancies in children. HA is a high-grade tumor of endothelial cells that is even more rare in the pediatric population. HA has a limited response to chemotherapy, radiation and resection with universal tumor recurrence with LT and nearly 100% mortality by 18 months. This is the first reported successful case of hepatic angiosarcoma in a child who was treated by LT in combination with sirolimus. Sirolimus antagonizes the mTOR pathway, which regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration, and is being studied as an anti-neoplastic agent for solid tumors.

Everolimus inhibits anti-HLA I antibody-mediated endothelial cell signaling, migration and proliferation more potently than sirolimus

Antibody (Ab) crosslinking of HLA I molecules on the surface of endothelial cells triggers proliferative and pro-survival intracellular signaling, which is implicated in the process of chronic allograft rejection, also known as transplant vasculopathy (TV). The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in HLA I Ab-induced signaling cascades. Everolimus provides a tool to establish how the mTOR signal network regulates HLA I-mediated migration, proliferation and survival. We found that everolimus inhibits mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) by disassociating Raptor from mTOR, thereby preventing class I-induced phosphorylation of mTOR, p70S6K, S6RP and 4E-BP1, and resultant class I-stimulated cell migration and proliferation. Furthermore, we found that everolimus inhibits class I-mediated mTORC2 activation (1) by disassociating Rictor and Sin1 from mTOR; (2) by preventing class I-stimulated Akt phosphorylation and (3) by preventing class I-mediated ERK phosphorylation. These results suggest that everolimus is more effective than sirolimus at antagonizing both mTORC1 and mTORC2, the latter of which is critical in endothelial cell functional changes leading to TV in solid organ transplantation after HLA I crosslinking. Our findings point to a potential therapeutic effect of everolimus in prevention of chronic Ab-mediated rejection.

Strategies for the management of adverse events associated with mTOR inhibitors

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors are used as potent immunosuppressive agents in solid-organ transplant recipients (everolimus and sirolimus) and as antineoplastic therapies for various cancers (eg, advanced renal cell carcinoma; everolimus, temsirolimus, ridaforolimus). Relevant literature, obtained from specific PubMed searches, was reviewed to evaluate the incidence and mechanistic features of specific adverse events (AEs) associated with mTOR inhibitor treatment, and to present strategies to effectively manage these events. The AEs examined in this review include stomatitis and other cutaneous AEs, wound-healing complications (eg, lymphocele, incisional hernia), diabetes/hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, proteinuria, nephrotoxicity, delayed graft function, pneumonitis, anemia, hypertension, gonadal dysfunction, and ovarian toxicity. Strategies for selecting appropriate patients for mTOR inhibitor therapy and minimizing the risks of AEs are discussed, along with best practices for identifying and managing side effects. mTOR inhibitors are promising therapeutic options in immunosuppression and oncology; most AEs can be effectively detected and managed or reversed with careful monitoring and appropriate interventions.

The utilization of sirolimus and the impact on wound-healing complications in obese kidney transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Wound healing is a known complication associated with sirolimus therapy. Previous studies have demonstrated that obesity is a risk factor for wound-healing complications (WHC) in patients receiving sirolimus therapy; however, the incidence has not been defined.

METHODS

This is a single-center, retrospective cohort study of de novo kidney transplant recipients (KTR) transplanted with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥ 30 kg/m(2) between January 2002 and April 2011 receiving sirolimus vs. sirolimus-free maintenance immunosuppression.

RESULTS

A total of 317 KTR, 71 sirolimus-free patients and 246 sirolimus patients, were eligible for inclusion. There was no difference in the primary outcome of WHC within six months of transplant (sirolimus 32.1% vs. sirolimus-free 29.6%, p = 0.107). Sirolimus exposure was not found to influence WHC (OR 2.906, 95% CI 0.922-9.160); however, BMI Class II (OR 1.830, 95% CI 1.051-3.186) and Class III (OR 3.154, 95% CI 1.484-6.705) were significant predictors of WHC. There was no difference in WHC between the sirolimus group and sirolimus-free group among patients in obesity Class I (27.3% vs. 15.1%, p = 0.064), Class II (36.6% vs. 34.8%, p = 0.195), or Class III (48.0% vs. 53.3%, p = 0.243).

CONCLUSION

In our experience, sirolimus does not increase WHC in obese KTR and can be safely used as maintenance immunosuppression immediately following transplant.

Periostin responds to mechanical stress and tension by activating the MTOR signaling pathway

Current knowledge about Periostin biology has expanded from its recognized functions in embryogenesis and bone metabolism to its roles in tissue repair and remodeling and its clinical implications in cancer. Emerging evidence suggests that Periostin plays a critical role in the mechanism of wound healing; however, the paracrine effect of Periostin in epithelial cell biology is still poorly understood. We found that epithelial cells are capable of producing endogenous Periostin that, unlike mesenchymal cell, cannot be secreted. Epithelial cells responded to Periostin paracrine stimuli by enhancing cellular migration and proliferation and by activating the mTOR signaling pathway. Interestingly, biomechanical stimulation of epithelial cells, which simulates tension forces that occur during initial steps of tissue healing, induced Periostin production and mTOR activation. The molecular association of Periostin and mTOR signaling was further dissected by administering rapamycin, a selective pharmacological inhibitor of mTOR, and by disruption of Raptor and Rictor scaffold proteins implicated in the regulation of mTORC1 and mTORC2 complex assembly. Both strategies resulted in ablation of Periostin-induced mitogenic and migratory activity. These results indicate that Periostin-induced epithelial migration and proliferation requires mTOR signaling. Collectively, our findings identify Periostin as a mechanical stress responsive molecule that is primarily secreted by fibroblasts during wound healing and expressed endogenously in epithelial cells resulting in the control of cellular physiology through a mechanism mediated by the mTOR signaling cascade.

Symptomatic lymphocele developing soon after acute renal allograft rejection: coincidental or causal connection?

A renal transplant patient developed a lymphocele soon after an episode of acute rejection (AR). The lymphocele rapidly increased in size causing transplant ureteric and venous obstruction, leading to acute graft dysfunction and swelling of the ipsilateral leg. We appraise the complex relationship that exists between AR, lymphangiogenesis and lymphocele formation to determine whether a case for a causal connection between AR and development of lymphocele can be made in our patient.