Accuracy of preoperative T2 gallbladder tumor localization and the adequate surgical resection

INTRODUCTION

The agreement between the radiologic and histopathologic tumor locations in T2 gallbladder cancer is critical. There is no consensus regarding the extent of curative resection by tumor locations.

METHODS

Between January 2010 and December 2019, a consecutive series of 118 patients with pathological T2 gallbladder cancer who underwent surgery were retrospectively analyzed in terms of the accordance between radiologic and histopathologic tumor locations, the extents of hepatic resection and the numbers of harvested lymph nodes. Radical resection was defined as liver resection with harvesting of at least four lymph nodes.

RESULTS

The accuracy of preoperative tumor localization was only 68%. After radical resection, the 5-year overall survival (OS) was 59.4%; after nonradical resection, the figure was 46.1% (p = 0.092). In subanalyses, the 5-year OS was marginally better for patients who underwent liver resection or from whom at least four lymph nodes were harvested than those who did not undergo liver resection or from whom three or fewer lymph nodes were harvested (58.2% vs. 39.4%, p = 0.072; 59.9% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.072, respectively). In patients with peritoneal side tumor, the 5-year OSs of those who did and did not undergo liver resection were 67% and 41.2%, respectively (p = 0.028). In multivariate analysis, perineural invasion and radical resection were independently prognostic of OS.

CONCLUSION

The accuracy of preoperative tumor localization was 68%. Hepatic resection, lymph node dissection harvesting of at least four lymph nodes are required for curative resection for gallbladder cancer, regardless of tumor location.

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is a good prognostic marker for pancreatic/periampullary cancers

BACKGROUND

Periampullary cancer (PAC) is highly aggressive with no effective adjuvant therapy or prognostic markers. Recently, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases-1 (PARP-1) have emerged as a target in solid cancers, and its relationship with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been observed. However, the relationship between PARP-1 and EMT in PAC has not explored well.

METHODS

We assessed the prognostic significance of PARP1 in 190 PACs patients and correlated it with EMT markers, including FGF8, FGFR4, MMP2, MMP3, Snail, and ZEB1. Immunohistochemistry for PARP-1 and EMT markers was performed using a tissue microarray.

RESULTS

PARP-1 and FGF8 expression were associated with better survival unlike other solid cancers (P = 0.006 and P = 0.003), and MMP3 and ZEB1 expression were associated with poor prognosis in multivariate and survival analyses (P = 0.009 and P < 0.001). In addition, PARP-1 is related negatively to Snail but not related with other EMT markers, implying an independent mechanism between PARP-1 and EMT in PACs. PARP-1 and FGF8 are independent good survival markers in PACs unlike other solid cancers.

CONCLUSIONS

PARP-1 and FGF8 in PACs could not be related to the EMT pathway but must be rather understood in light of similar cancer-protective roles. Further studies are required on EMT-associated immune markers in PACs.

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration following prior gastrectomy: surgical safety and feasibility

PURPOSE

Previous gastrectomy (PG) can lead to an increased incidence of biliary stones. However, the success rate of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography after gastrectomy remains low. In such cases, laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) may be an alternative. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of LCBDE for patients who underwent PG.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients with a history of LCBDE was conducted. Patients were divided into two groups according to their PG status, and their perioperative data were compared.

RESULTS

The outcomes of 27 patients with a history of gastrectomy were compared with those of 155 without a history of gastrectomy who underwent LCBDE. PG patients experienced longer hospitalization times (P = 0.006), more postoperative bleeding (p = 0.021), a lower incidence of preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (P < 0.001), and a higher incidence of T-tube application (p = 0.002) than those without gastrectomy. However, there were no significant differences in estimated blood loss volume, operation time, bile leakage status, pancreatitis status, stone clearance rate, readmission rate, or recurrence rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Although LCBDE following gastrectomy may require laborious perioperative management, a history of gastrectomy might not influence the feasibility or safety of LCBDE, as its perioperative outcomes are comparable to those in patients without a history of gastrectomy.

Safety of performing distal pancreatosplenectomy in patients who underwent distal gastrectomy previously: a multicenter cohort analysis with systematic literature review

Purpose

In patients who have previously undergone subtotal gastrectomy (STG), the remnant stomach is supplied with arterial blood through the splenic artery. It is currently unclear whether the remnant stomach can be safely preserved when performing distal pancreatosplenectomy (DPS) in these patients. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of performing DPS in patients who had undergone a previous STG.

Methods

A multicenter cohort study was performed to identify patients who underwent DPS. Electronic medical data of Clinical Data Warehouse from 7 representative high-volume centers in 5 cities were retrospectively reviewed. A propensity score-matched analysis was performed to match patients who had no history of upper abdominal surgery with patients who had undergone a previous STG.

Results

Fourteen DPS patients who had a history of STG (STG group) were studied and matched to 70 patients who underwent DPS without any history of upper abdominal surgery (non-STG group). All patients in the STG group had the remnant stomach preserved. In most patients, the blood vessel supplying blood to the remnant stomach was the left inferior phrenic artery. There was no significant difference in the incidence of stomach-related complications or length of hospital stay between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Our study results suggest that the remnant stomach could be safely preserved when performing DPS in patients with a prior STG. However, it is necessary to carefully evaluate the vascular structure of the remnant stomach through preoperative imaging study and closely observe changes to the blue stomach during the operation.

Korean Surgical Practice Guideline for Pancreatic Cancer 2021: A summary of evidence-based surgical approaches

Pancreatic cancer is the eighth most common cancer and the fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths in Korea. Despite the increasing incidence and high mortality rate of pancreatic cancer, there are no appropriate surgical practice guidelines for the current domestic medical situation. To enable standardization of management and facilitate improvements in surgical outcome, a total of 10 pancreatic surgical experts who are members of Korean Association of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery have developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date, evidence-based research findings and expert opinions. This is an English version of the Korean Surgical Practice Guideline for Pancreatic Cancer 2021. This guideline includes 13 surgical questions and 15 statements. Due to the lack of high-level evidence, strong recommendation is almost impossible. However, we believe that this guideline will help surgeons understand the current status of evidence and suggest what to investigate further to establish more solid recommendations in the future.

Reappraisal of clinical indication regarding total pancreatectomy: can we do it for the risky gland?

BACKGROUND

Although total pancreatectomy (TP) is performed at an increasing rate at major pancreatic centers, there is still debate regarding its indications and outcomes. This study aims to analyze the indications and outcomes of TP using our retrospective data.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study on patients who underwent TP between January 2009 and December 2019 at two academic hospitals using data collected. Preoperative data, including demographics and clinical picture, operative details, and postoperative data, were collected and analyzed. Conventional indications of TP included positive margin on the neck, lesion of the central part of the pancreas, and diffuse lesions of the whole pancreas. The classification of the risky gland included pancreas remnants, which had higher risk for pancreaticoenterostomy after pancreatic head resection.

RESULTS

During the study periods, a total of 72 TP were performed for benign and malignant pancreatic diseases. After excluding six TP undergone due to trauma or complication after partial pancreatectomy, 64 patients were grouped into 47 patients with existing conventional indications and 17 patients with predicted risky anastomosis. There was no significant difference in clinical data and surgical results between the conventional indication group and the risky gland group. Thirty-day major morbidity and mortality was 9.4% and 0%, respectively. Ninety-day mortality rate was 1.4% (n=1, conventional group), with the median follow-up length of 21.5 months. Overall 5-year survival rate was 67.7% for the total participants: 87.5% for the risk gland group and 57.9% for the conventional group. There was no significant difference in between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Total pancreatectomy appears to be a viable option for risky glands in terms of surgical safety.

Is hepatectomy an appropriate option for bilobar liver metastasis with portal vein tumor thrombus of colorectal cancer?

The prognosis of patients with multiple liver metastasis of colorectal cancer (CLM) on both lobes accompanied by a portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) remains unclear. We report two patients with multiple CLM and PVTT who underwent liver resection. A 73-year-old man had successful extended right hemi-hepatectomy with a thrombectomy for a macroscopic tumor thrombus in the right portal branch and multiple CLM in both lobes. At 8 months after surgery, the patient had multiple CLM in the remnant lobe with left main PVTT and died 14 months after liver surgery. A 64-year-old woman who had previously undergone palliative chemotherapy for adenocarcinoma of the ascending colon presented with CLM accompanied by a macroscopic tumor thrombus in the left portal branch. Tumor and PVTT had progressed despite various regimens of chemotherapy. Left hemi-hepatectomy with radiofrequency ablation on right lobe and right hemicolectomy were performed. However, CLM occurred again within 3 months after the liver surgery. Considering these cases, a poor prognosis may be expected even though the tumor is successfully removed by liver resection.

Appraisal of Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Explorations Using Balloon-Assisted Stone Extraction Method: Seventeen Years Experiences

Background: Balloon-assisted stone extraction (BASE) can be applied to remove the common bile duct (CBD) stones during laparoscopic CBD exploration (LCBDE). This study aimed to analyze the efficacy of BASE. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with CBD stone who underwent LCBDE using BASE from 2001 to 2017 was conducted. The outcomes of BASE and potential factor for failure of technique were also evaluated. Results: A total of 163 patients underwent LCBDE using BASE were enrolled. Success rate of BASE was 88.3% (144/163) and 19 (11.7%) patients with failed BASE underwent basket for lithotripsy additionally. The reason for aborting BASE were stone impaction (n = 6), small stone (n = 4), migration into intrahepatic duct (IHD) (n = 3), and others (n = 6). The overall success rate of stone clearance was 98.2% (160/163). The mean CBD diameter was 15.8 mm (range 7-34 mm), and the largest stone size was 13.8 mm (range 3-36 mm). The overall rate of complication related with procedure was 4.9% (8/163), including bile leakage in 2 patients (1.2%), bleeding in 2 patients (1.2%), and pancreatitis in 4 patients (2.4%). There was no procedure-related mortality. Conclusions: BASE for CBD stone is safe and effective technique for the treatment of CBD stones.

The analysis of risk for peptic ulcer disease using Korean national health and nutrition examination survey: a cross-sectional analysis of a national survey sample

Background

To evaluate the risk factors associated with the incidence of peptic ulcer disease (PUD), study was conducted to assess the relationship between socioeconomic and environmental factors and PUD in a large scales data of the Korean population using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).

Methods

We conducted a cross sectional study of 12,095 enrollment in the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. The data was collected from KNHANES between 2008 and 2009 by the Division of Chronic Disease Surveillance under the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to assess the associations of PUD with the multiple variables.

Results

An association between old age, mental and psychosocial factor and PUD could be seen in both genders under multivariate analysis. Additionally, PUD in male associated with lower BMI and lesser exercise in life.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that, in Korean, mental health is associated with increased prevalence of PUD.

Lateral approach toward hepatoduodenal ligament during laparoscopic radical cholecystectomy for Gallbladder cancer

BACKGROUND

The common approach of Lymph node dissection (LND) during laparoscopic radical cholecystectomy (LRC) is an anterior approach [1,2], which emulates the view of open surgery. However, isolating the post-pancreatic nodes and retro-portal nodes completely without any damage to neighboring organs can be difficult in laparoscopic surgery because the dorsal structures of hepatoduodenal ligament are embedded and it is difficult for a surgeon to expose them [3]. On the other hand, the lateral approach offers the better way to expose and dissect dorsal part of hepatoduodenal ligament and it can be useful for dissecting hilar during laparoscopic right hepatectomy without injury of left side vascular structures.

METHODS

We performed retrospective analysis of consecutive 10 patients submitted to LRC for Gallbladder (GB) cancer and described a technical aspect regarding LND for those series of cases. Among them, we introduced a patient with 71 years old man in a surgical video clip. He had no symptom and was his lesion was detected during a regular health care screening. The preoperative computed tomography showed T2 cancer with suspicious involvement in liver. His liver function was normal and tumor marker level was in normal range. LRC with liver wedge resection were contemplated for his treatment.

RESULTS

In the video clip, the patient was laid on an operating table in supine position. A zero degrees flexible laparoscope was used through the port on right subcostal angle. After identifying the common hepatic artery, #8 nodes were dissected and a 360-degree surrounding loop was applied to it for gentle retraction. Then gastroduodenal artery was identified with same manner. Cystic duct was isolated and frozen biopsy of its stump was done. After completing the isolation of common bile duct, another 360-degree loop was placed around it. The main trunk of the portal vein was exposed and followed superiorly up to the area of its bifurcation. Camera moved to lateral side of patient, to provide the better view of posterior and dorsal part of hepatoduodenal ligament. Careful dissection of retro-portal area with node dissection was then performed and portal vein was surrounded in 360°. Then, surgeon paid attention to dissecting retro-pancreatic #13 nodes, which was clearly identified and dissected. LRC was performed successfully by using lateral laparoscopic approach. Then liver wedge resection under laparoscopy was performed without any problem. This approach was not a great invention or innovation. Rather, this approach is commonly used technique in "liver and pancreatic minimally invasive procedures" including robotic procedures. However, this simple procedure can be useful for a surgeon to perform LRC. During last 20 years, we performed radical cholecystectomy for treating GB cancer in our institution. Since 2014, we changed the policy to treat early GB cancer (in the stage of T1b and T2) with "minimally invasive procedure". We performed only LND without liver resection for peritoneal side tumor. Most of all patients were diagnosed in preoperative manner. Only two cases of incidental cancer underwent additional operation of LND and liver resection. Half of cases went through the process of dissection of lymph nodes only and 5 liver resections were done. None of patients undergoing LRC required conversion to another view during hilar dissection. The retro-portal vein and pancreas head LND could be reached expeditiously and safely prior to parenchymal transection. Majority of them revealed T2 and T1b finally. Number of retrieved nodes were in between 1 and 17 and median was 7. There was one complication of small bowel perforation during adhesiolysis.

CONCLUSION

Lateral approach during LRC appears to offer better way to visualize, expose and dissect the dorsal part of hepatoduodenal ligament and LND #12,13s.

Prognostic significance of stem cell/ epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers in periampullary/pancreatic cancers: FGFR1 is a promising prognostic marker

BACKGROUND

Periampullary cancers (PAC) including pancreatic, ampulla of Vater (AOV), and common bile duct (CBD) cancers are highly aggressive with a lack of useful prognostic markers beyond T stage. However, T staging can be biased due to the anatomic complexity of this region. Recently, several markers related to cancer stem cells and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) such as octamer transcription factor-4 (Oct4) and fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) respectively, have been proposed as new promising markers in other solid cancers. The aim of this study was to assess the expression and prognostic significance of stem cell/EMT markers in PACs.

METHODS

Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of surgically excised PACs from the laboratory archives from 1998 to 2014 were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining for stem cell/EMT markers using tissue microarray. The clinicopathologic parameters were documented and statistically analyzed with the immunohistochemical findings. Survival and recurrence data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 126 PAC cases were evaluated. The average age was 63 years, with 76 male and 50 female patient samples. Age less than 74 years, AOV cancers, lower T & N stage, lower tumor size, no lymphatic, vascular, perineural invasion and histologic well differentiation, intestinal type, no fibrosis, severe inflammation were significantly associated with the better overall survival High expression levels of FGFR1 as well as CK20, CDX2, and VEGF were significantly related to better overall survival, while other stem cell markers were not related. Similar findings were observed for tumor recurrence using disease-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to other clinicopathologic parameters, severe fibrosis was related to frequent tumor recurrence, and high FGFR1 expression was associated with better overall survival. Histologic changes such as extensive fibrosis need to be investigated further in relation to EMT of PACs.

A novel antifibrotic strategy utilizing conditioned media obtained from miR-150-transfected adipose-derived stem cells: validation of an animal model of liver fibrosis

The limitations of stem cells have led researchers to investigate the secretome, which is the secretory materials in stem cells, since the principal mechanism of action of stem cells is mediated by the secretome. In this study, we determined the antifibrotic potential of the secretome released from miR-150-transfected adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs). The secretome released from ASCs that were transfected with antifibrotic miR-150 was obtained (referred to as the miR-150 secretome). To validate the antifibrotic effects of the miR-150 secretome, we generated in vitro and in vivo models of liver fibrosis by treating human hepatic stellate cells (LX2 cells) with thioacetamide (TAA) and subcutaneous injection of TAA into mice, respectively. In the in vitro model, more significant reductions in the expression of fibrosis-related markers, such as TGFβ, Col1A1, and α-SMA, were observed by using the miR-150 secretome than the control secretome, specifically in TAA-treated LX2 cells. In the in vivo model, infusion of the miR-150 secretome into mice with liver fibrosis abrogated the increase in serum levels of systemic inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, and induced increased expression of antifibrotic, proliferation, and antioxidant activity markers in the liver. Our in vitro and in vivo experiments indicate that the miR-150 secretome is superior to the naive secretome in terms of ameliorating liver fibrosis, minimizing systemic inflammatory responses, and promoting antioxidant enzyme expression. Therefore, we conclude that miR-150 transfection into ASCs has the potential to induce the release of secretory materials with enhanced antifibrotic, proliferative, and antioxidant properties.

A mixture of molecules produced by genetically modified stem cells could help repair the damage associated with liver fibrosis. Fat-derived adipose stem cells (ASCs) secrete proteins and nucleic acids that can facilitate tissue regeneration, but the natural mixture of molecules secreted (the ‘secretome’) is insufficient to reverse advanced fibrosis. Researchers led by Say-June Kim of the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea, have boosted the potency of this cell-derived treatment by engineering ASCs to produce an RNA called miR-150. This RNA inhibits biological processes that drive fibrosis. Experiments in cultured cells and a mouse model of fibrosis confirmed that miR-150 consistently improved the ASC secretome’s capacity to control liver fibrosis and minimize systemic inflammatory responses. This approach could thus offer a safe strategy for promoting tissue regeneration and preventing liver failure.

The Effects of Preoperative Pain Education on the Decision to Discharge Patients Following Single-Incision Laparoscopic Appendectomy

Purpose

Few studies have analyzed the effects of preoperative pain education on the postoperative decision to discharge. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of pain education and management on the decision to discharge patients after single-incision laparoscopic appendectomy (SILA).

Methods

We analyzed 135 patients who had undergone SILA for acute appendicitis between March 2017 and April 2018 in a single medical center. Of these, 72 patients (53.3%) had received preoperative pain education (group 1), and 63 (46.7%) had not (group 2). We compared perioperative outcomes and complications between the groups.

Results

Baseline characteristics of sex, age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologist score, and systemic inflammation factors (neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, C-reactive protein level) did not differ significantly between the groups. There were no postoperative complications for patients in either group. Perioperative consequences and pathologic findings were not significantly different between the groups; however, length of hospital was significantly shorter in group 1.

Conclusion

Preoperative pain education in relation to postoperative pain management influenced the decision to shorten the postoperative hospital length of stay after SILA.

Is there any different risk factor for clinical relevant pancreatic fistula according to the stump closure method following left-sided pancreatectomy?

Backgrounds/Aims

Consistency on risk factors for postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after left-sided pancreatectomy (LP) according to the stump closure methods has not been revealed. Appropriate surgical stump closure method after LP is still in debate. This study investigates risk factors for POPF according to the closure methods in LP.

Methods

A total of 49 consecutive patients underwent LP with a stapler closure (ST) or hand-sewn closure (HS) between June 2001 and September 2016. The risk factors of pancreatic fistulas were investigated in 49 LPs according to stump closure methods, HS (n=19), and ST (n=30).

Results

There was no significant difference in the incidence of overall POPF (HS 42.1% vs. ST 50.0%) and clinical relevant POPF (CR-POPF) (HS 5.3% vs. ST 6.7%) between two groups. In the ST group, the pancreas was significantly thick in patients with CR-POPF (27 mm vs. 17 mm) and the tumor was also larger (58 mm vs. 27 mm). In the HS group, the operation time was longer in CR-POPF group (515 min vs 292 min). In univariate analysis, wider diameter of the pancreatic duct (27 mm vs 16 mm) was associated with POPF in the HS group. There was no meaningful risk factor for POPF in the ST group.

Conclusions

Incidence of overall POPF between the ST and HS group were clinically insignificant in this study. The thickness of the pancreas and the tumor diameter are factors significantly associated with CR-POPF in the ST group. Long operation time was the only factor associated with CR-POPF in the HS group.

The vulnerable point of modified blumgart pancreaticojejunostomy regarding pancreatic fistula learned from 50 consecutive pancreaticoduodenectomy

Background

Blumgart anastomosis (BA) during pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) had reduced postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after PD in literatures. The aim of this study is to report surgical results from a consecutive series of operation using the modified BA method.

Methods

Data from 50 consecutive patients who underwent PD using modified BA between September 2011 and August 2018 were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed, regarding POPF, other morbidities, and mortality.

Results

Overall incidence of POPF was 10.0%, the rate of grade B POPF was 8.0% (4/50) and grade C was 2.0% (1/50). Among 50 patients, 5 post pancreatectomy hemorrhages (PPHs) (10.0%) including 2 POPF related bleeding, and 4 abscesses including 2 related to POPF occurred. Fistula risk grades were as follows: 0 negligible, 6 low, 36 intermediate, and 8 high. Except for one patient, fistulas improved over the clinical course after radiologic intervention drainage and angiography. The mortality occurred due to POPF followed by jejunal detachment from the remnant pancreas stump. In this case, jejunum was too thin, compared to the pancreatic thickness.

Conclusions

This retrospective single-center result demonstrated that the modified BA had an acceptable rate of POPF. Modified BA may be risky and potentially provoke fatal POPF, when joining a thin jejunum and thick pancreas.

Randomized controlled study of the effect of octreotide on pancreatic exocrine secretion and pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Octreotide is known to decrease the rate of postoperative complication after pancreatic resection by diminishing exocrine function of the pancreas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of octreotide in decreasing exocrine excretion of pancreas and preventing pancreatic fistula.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prospective randomized trial was conducted involving 59 patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy for either malignant or benign tumor, 29 patients were randomized to receive octreotide; 30 patients allotted to placebo. All pancreaticojejunal anastomosis was performed with external stent of negative-pressured drainage and the amount of pancreatic juice through the external stent was measured until postoperative 7th day. Pancreatic fistula was recorded.

RESULTS

There were no differences in demographics, pancreatic texture and pancreatic duct diameter between the octreotide and placebo group. The median output of pancreatic juice was not significantly different between both groups during 7 days after surgery. When the patients were stratified according to the diameter of pancreatic duct (duct ≤5 mm, > 5 mm), there were no significant differences in daily amount of pancreatic juice, however, when stratified according to pancreatic texture, median output of pancreatic juice was significantly lower in patients with hard pancreas compared with those with soft pancreas from 5 day to 7 day after surgery (p < 0.05). No significant differences in pancreatic fistula and postoperative complications were found between the octreotide and placebo groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic octreotide is not effective to inhibit the exocrine secretion of the remnant pancreas and does not decrease the incidence of pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Safety and feasibility of single-port laparoscopic appendectomy as a training procedure for surgical residents

Background:

Single-port laparoscopic appendectomy (SPLA) is one of the most commonly performed single-port surgeries worldwide. This study aimed to determine whether the performance of SPLA by residents without sufficient experience as operators of conventional LA (CLA) is safe and feasible.

Patients and Methods:

Records of patients who underwent LA between March 2017 and February 2018 at a hospital in Korea were retrospectively analysed. Patients aged <18 years or >80 years were excluded from the study. SPLA and CLA were performed by two 2^nd-year residents (junior group) and three 3^rd-year residents (senior group). Demographic data, perioperative variables and surgical outcomes were compared.

Results:

During the study period, 154 patients underwent LA (104 SPLA and 50 CLA) performed by surgical residents. No differences were found between the SPLA and CLA groups in demographic data or perioperative variables, except for the drain insertion rate. The SPLA group had significantly shorter mean operation times than did the CLA group. No significant difference was observed between the junior and senior groups in the mean operation time for LA. Perioperative outcomes were not significantly different between groups. Fewer women underwent SPLA performed by 2^nd-year residents compared with SPLA performed by 3^rd-year residents. However, there were no differences in other general characteristics or perioperative outcomes.

Conclusions:

SPLA was safe and feasible when performed by junior residents. Surgical residents with sufficient experience as assistants during laparoscopic appendectomies could perform SPLA safely. Furthermore, SPLA could serve as a teaching procedure for surgical residents.

Three-year result of efficacy for type 2 diabetes mellitus control between laparoscopic duodenojejunal bypass compared with laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Purpose

The mechanism by which bariatric surgery facilitates diabetic control is still unknown. Duodenojejunal bypass supports the foregut theory; however, its efficacy when used alone is not yet established.

Methods

During the period from January 2008 to December 2009, patients who underwent laparoscopic duodenojejunal bypass (LDJB) or laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with or without morbid obesity were included. Patients who had a follow-up for less than 3 years were excluded. Patient baseline characteristics, change of body weight, body mass index (BMI), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA_1c), and diabetic treatments were analyzed.

Results

In total, 8 LDJB and 20 LRYGB patients were analyzed. The LDJB group had more number of male patients than the LRYGB group (LDJB 75% vs. LRYGB 30%, P = 0.030). Baseline BMI in the LRYGB group was higher than in the LDJB group (LDJB 27.0 ± 2.5 vs. LRYGB 32.6 ± 3.4, P < 0.001). Age, DM duration, baseline HbA_1c, and C-peptide levels were similar. Longer operation time was needed to perform LDJB (LDJB 367.5 ± 120.2 vs. LRYGB 232.9 ± 41.1, P < 0.001), but no differences were observed in the hospital stay and complication rate between the 2 groups. At the third year of follow-up, the T2DM remission rate was observed in 40% of patients in the LRYGB group and 12.5% of patients in the LDJB group.

Conclusion

LDJB is not an effective method for controlling T2DM compared with LRYGB. Foregut theory may not be the main mechanism of diabetic control during bariatric surgery.

A Comparison of Self-Inflicted Stab Wounds Versus Assault-Induced Stab Wounds

Background

Although self-inflicted and assault-induced knife injuries might have different mortality and morbidity rates, no studies have actually evaluated the importance of the cause of knife injuries in terms of patient outcomes and treatment strategies.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to assess the difference between the outcomes of patients presenting with self-inflicted stab wounds (SISW) versus assault-induced stab wounds (AISW).

Patients and Methods

A retrospective review of the relevant electronic medical records was performed for the period between January 2000 and December 2012 for patients who were referred to the department of surgery for stab wounds by the trauma team. The patients were divided into either SISW (n = 10) or AISW groups (n = 11), depending on the cause of the injury.

Results

A total of 19 patients had undergone exploratory laparotomy. Of the nine patients with SISW undergoing this procedure, no injury was found in seven of the patients. In the AISW group, eight of the ten laparotomies were therapeutic. Three patients in the AISW group died during hospital admission. The average number of stab wounds was 1.2 for the SISW group and 3.5 for the AISW group. Organ injuries were more frequent in the AISW group, affecting the lung (2), diaphragm (3), liver (5), small bowel (2), colon (2), and kidney (1).

Conclusions

Although evaluations of the initial vital signs and physical examinations are still important, the history regarding the source of the stab wounds (AISW vs. SISW) may be helpful in determining the appropriate treatment methods and predicting patient outcomes.

Favorable Long-Term Oncologic Outcomes of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Following Laparoscopic Liver Resection

BACKGROUND

Reports on the long-term oncologic outcomes of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) compared to open liver resection (OLR) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are rare. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term outcomes of LLR and OLR as a treatment for HCC patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 125 patients were included in the study (32 patients underwent LLR and 93 underwent OLR). Data were categorized according to operation methods. The primary endpoints were disease-free survival and overall survival. The secondary endpoints were surgical outcomes of LLR for HCC.

RESULTS

Capsular invasion was more frequent in the LLR group (P = .001). The median follow-up period was 48 months (1-188 month). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding mortality and morbidity. Hospitalization days were shorter in the LLR group (P = .042). Disease-free 5-year survival of HCC was 40.9% and 47.2% in the LLR and OLR group, respectively (P = .376). Overall 5-year survival for HCC was 96.4% and 96.7% for the LLR and OLR group, respectively (P = .748).

CONCLUSION

Our long-term analysis on oncologic aspects confirms the safety of LLR compared to OLR in HCC patients.

Pathologic response to preoperative transarterial chemoembolization for resectable hepatocellular carcinoma may not predict recurrence after liver resection

BACKGROUND

Pathologic response (PR) predicts survival after preoperative chemotherapy and resection of a malignancy. Occasionally, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) may be selected for preoperative management of resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study investigated whether PR to preoperative TACE can predict recurrence after resection for resectable HCC.

METHODS

We conducted analysis of 106 HCC patients who underwent TACE followed by liver resection with a curative intent. The PR was evaluated as the mean percentage of non-viable tumor area within each tumor. We divided the patients into three groups according to response rate: complete PR (CPR), major response (MJR: PR≥50%) and minor response (MNR: PR<50%). The primary endpoint was disease-free survival, and the secondary endpoints were predicting factors for tumor recurrence and MJR+CPR.

RESULTS

Among the 121 TACE patients, PR could be measured in 106 (87.6%). The mean interval between TACE and liver resection was 33.1 days. The 5-year disease-free survival rates by PR status were as follows: 40.6% CPR, 43.7% MJR, and 49.0% MNR (P=0.815). There were also no significant differences in overall survival between the three groups. Multivariate analyses revealed that microvascular invasion and capsular invasion (hazard ratio [HR]=11.224, P=0.002 and HR=2.220, P=0.043) were independent predictors of disease-free survival. Multivariate analysis of the predictors of above 50% PR revealed that only hepatitis B was an independent factor.

CONCLUSION

These data could reflect that the PR after TACE for resectable HCC may not be useful for predicting recurrence of HCC after resection.

The effect of modified pancreaticojejunostomy for reducing the pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Pancreatic fistula (PF) has traditionally been a source of significant morbidity and mortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). External drainage of pancreatic duct with stent and Blumgart anastomosis had reduced PF after PD in some studies. We applied compounding described two methods for pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) during PD, and investigated the effectiveness of this modified PJ technique to prevent PF.

METHODOLOGY

Between March 2002, and March 2013, 90 patients who underwent PD were enrolled. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to pancreatienterostomy method. Group 1 contain patients who did not undergo modified PJ (n=70) compared with group 2 (n=20) those who did undergo the modified PJ technique. We compared clinical data between two groups.

RESULTS

No differences were noted in the demographics and operation-related factors, between the 2 groups. A PF occurred in 38 of 70 patients in group 1 (54.3%) and in 2 of 20 in group 2 (10.0%). Group 2 had a significantly lower incidence of PF (P=.0016), and these fistulas were classified as being grade A using the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula Definition. Mortality in group 1 was 10.0% and no mortality in group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

External drainage with Blumgart method of PJ showed reducing high grade PF after PD.

Clinical implications of systemic inflammatory response markers as independent prognostic factors in colorectal cancer patients

Purpose

Cancer-related inflammation affects many aspects of malignancy. We confirm the effects of early postoperative systemic inflammation on cancer prognosis.

Materials and Methods

Six hundred consecutive patients underwent surgery for colorectal cancer from 2006 to 2009. Measurements of white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and platelet counts were performed preoperatively, daily until the fourth postoperative day, and subsequently every two days. Patients were divided into three groups based on the days spent on the leukocyte count to drop below 10,000/mm³ after surgery.

Results

Preoperative white blood cell (WBC) counts correlated with stage of disease. In univariate survival analyses, tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) stage, and monocyte count were associated with cancer-free survival. In addition, cancer-free survival outcomes were worse in patients who required more than four days for the normalization of WBC count. A TNM stage greater than II and the neutrophil lymphocyte ratio were associated with the duration of overall survival. In a multivariate analysis of these significant variables, TNM stage, an interval longer than four days for normalization of WBC counts and monocyte count independently associated with cancer-free survival.

Conclusion

Postoperative early inflammatory phase and preoperative monocyte count correlate with poor colon cancer prognosis. We can conclude that preoperative and postoperative inflammatory response and period unfavorably affect the metastatic microenvironment.

Biliary injury after cholecystectomy in a patient with severe right liver atrophy

We report a case of bile fistula after cholecystectomy in a patient with severe right liver atrophy, which was managed by endoscopic nasobiliary drainage and conservative treatment. The patient was a 76-year-old man with a sudden onset in the right flank and abdominal pain. Computed tomography revealed calculous cholecystitis and severely atrophied right lobe of the liver. Gallbladder was located in the superior-posterior portion of the liver as opposed to the normal position. The patient underwent cholecystectomy and showed massive bleeding and bile leakage at the gallbladder bed during operation. A bile fistula was detected three days after surgery, which was managed by interventional bile drainage. Right liver agenesis or severe atrophy is rare. Additionally, the report of combined bile duct injury after cholecystectomy in these settings is extremely rare.

Analysis of liver metastasis after resection for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

AIM: To investigate the risk factors affecting the liver metastasis (LM) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) after resection.

METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 101 PDAC patients who underwent surgical resection at the Samsung Medical Center between January 2000 and December 2004. Forty one patients with LM were analyzed for the time of metastasis, prognostic factors affecting LM, and survival.

RESULTS: LM was found in 40.6%. The median time of the LM (n = 41) was 6.0 ± 4.6 mo and most LM occurred within 1 year. In univariate analysis, tumor size, preoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9, and perineural invasion were factors affecting LM after resection. In multivariate analysis, tumor size was the most important factor for LM. In univariate analysis, tumor cell differentiation was significant to LM in low-risk groups.

CONCLUSION: LM after resection of PDAC occurs early and shows poor survival. Tumor size is the key indicator for LM after resection.

Solid tumors of the pancreas can put on a mask through cystic change

Background

Solid pancreatic tumors such as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT), and pancreatic endocrine tumor (PET) may occasionally manifest as cystic lesions. In this study, we have put together our accumulated experience with cystic manifestations of various solid tumors of the pancreas.

Methods

From 2000 to 2006, 376 patients with pancreatic solid tumor resections were reviewed. Ten (2.66%) of these tumors appeared on radiological imaging studies as cystic lesions. We performed a retrospective review of medical records and pathologic findings of these 10 cases.

Results

Of the ten cases in which solid tumors of the pancreas manifested as cystic lesions, six were PDAC with cystic degeneration, two were SPT undergone complete cystic change, one was cystic PET, and one was a cystic schwannoma. The mean tumor size of the cystic portion in PDAC was 7.3 cm, and three patients were diagnosed as 'pseudocyst' with or without cancer. Two SPT were found incidentally in young women and were diagnosed as other cystic neoplasms. One cystic endocrine tumor was preoperatively suspected as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm or mucinous cystic neoplasm.

Conclusions

Cystic changes of pancreas solid tumors are extremely rare. However, the possibility of cystic manifestation of pancreas solid tumors should be kept in mind.

Carcinoma of the middle bile duct: Is bile duct segmental resection appropriate?

AIM: To compare survival between bile duct segmental resection (BDSR) and pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for treating distal bile duct cancers.

METHODS: Retrospective analysis was conducted for 45 patients in a BDSR group and for 149 patients in a PD group.

RESULTS: The T-stage (P < 0.001), lymph node invasion (P = 0.010) and tumor differentiation (P = 0.005) were significant prognostic factors in the BDSR group. The 3- and 5-year overall survival rates for the BDSR group and PD group were 51.7% and 36.6%, respectively and 46.0% and 38.1%, respectively (P = 0.099). The BDSR group and PD group did not show any significant difference in survival when this was adjusted for the TNM stage. The 3- and 5-year survival rates were: stage Ia [BDSR (100.0% and 100.0%) vs PD (76.9% and 68.4%) (P = 0.226)]; stage Ib [BDSR (55.8% and 32.6%) vs PD (59.3% and 59.3%) (P = 0.942)]; stage IIb [BDSR (19.2% and 19.2%) vs PD (31.9% and 14.2%) (P = 0.669)].

CONCLUSION: BDSR can be justified as an alternative radical operation for patients with middle bile duct in selected patients with no adjacent organ invasion and resection margin is negative.

Prognostic factors for primary duodenal adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to review the clinical features of primary duodenal adenocarcinoma (PDA) patients and to identify factors that influence survival. The natural history of PDA and the factors that affect patient outcome remain poorly defined.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the medical records of 53 patients treated for PDA from January 1995 to May 2007.

RESULTS

Altogether, 28 of the 53 patients (resectability 52.8%) underwent curative resection and 25 (47.2%) surgical palliation (bypass surgery or biopsy). Overall, the 3- and 5-year survival rates were 34.4% and 28.6%, respectively. Survival was significantly higher for patients who underwent curative resection (median survival 39 months; 3- and 5-year survivals 52.9% and 44.1%, respectively) than for those who underwent palliative surgery (median survival 8 months; 3-year survival 0%) (p < 0.001). T stage (p = 0.032) and nodal metastasis (p = 0.002) had significant negative effects on the survival of patients who underwent curative resection according to univariate analysis. However, multivariate analysis revealed that only nodal metastasis (p = 0.015) was significantly associated with survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The resectability of PDA was associated with increased survival, and metastasis to lymph nodes was found to be associated with reduced survival of patients with PDA. Findings indicate that an aggressive surgical approach should be pursued.

Experience of limited pancreatic head resection for management of branch duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm in a single center

AIM: To share our surgical experience and the outcome of limited pancreatic head resection for the management of branch duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN).

METHODS: Between May 2005 and February 2008, nine limited pancreatic head resections (LPHR) were performed for IPMN of the pancreatic head. We reviewed the nine patients, retrospectively.

RESULTS: Tumor was located in the uncinate process of the pancreas in all nine patients. Three patients had stents inserted in the main pancreatic duct due to injury. The mean size of tumor was 28.4 mm. Postoperative complications were found in five patients: 3 pancreatic leakages, a pancreatitis, and a duodenal stricture. Pancreatic leakages were improved by external drainage. No perioperative mortality was observed and all patients are recorded alive during the mean follow-up period of 17.2 mo.

CONCLUSION: In selected patients after careful evaluation, LPHR can be used for the treatment of branch duct type IPMN. In order to avoid pancreatic ductal injury, pre- and intra-operative definite localization and careful operative techniques are required.

The outcomes after surgical resection in pancreatic endocrine tumors: an institutional experience

AIM

Sporadic pancreatic endocrine tumors (PET) can be managed surgically with excellent outcomes. The aim of this study was to analyze surgical outcomes and factors influencing survival.

METHODS

Between 1995 and 2007, 96 patients with sporadic PET who underwent surgery at our institution were retrospectively reviewed for clinicopathologic variables and outcomes according to the World Health Organization (WHO) classifications.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients had well-differentiated tumors (WDT) with benign behavior, 23 had uncertain behavior, 27 had low-grade carcinoma, and 7 were diagnosed with high-grade carcinoma. R0 resection was performed in 84 patients. No recurrence was observed in WDT regardless of its behavior or curability but 16 of 34 patients with carcinoma had recurrence. Five-year overall survival (OS) for R0-resected patients with carcinoma was 57%, and OS at 3 years for R1/R2-resected patients was 23% (P = 0.012). The WHO classification and R0 resection were independent prognostic factors in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This single institutional experience demonstrated that surgical resection is curative for WDT and recurrences are frequent in spite of curative resection for malignant PET. The WHO classification and R0 resection remained independent prognostic factor.

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile ducts: the clinical features and surgical outcome of 25 cases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile ducts (IPN-B) is considered an uncommon tumor. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical, radiological, and histopathological characteristics of IPN-B, and its prognosis.

METHODS

From October 1995 to August 2006, a retrospective analysis was made of 25 patients that underwent surgery for IPN-B. Clinical features and radiological, pathological, and operative findings were reviewed, and survival rates were determined.

RESULTS

In five patients (20.0%), lesions were incidentally found. Radiologically, 23 of the 25 (92.0%) showed bile duct dilatation, bile duct dilatation with or without an intraductal mass, and cystic changes of bile ducts. Twenty three of the 25 patients underwent hepatic resection with or without extrahepatic bile duct resection. No in hospital mortality occurred. Median survival time of resected patients was 59.8 months and 1-, 2-, and 4-year survival rates were 90.5%, 84.0%, and 84.0%, respectively. All six patients with benign IPN-B remained alive at a mean of 26.2 postoperative months without recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

A diagnosis of IPN-B is usually made in patients with biliary dilatation by radiologic study. The prognosis of IPN-B, especially of the benign category, is excellent. Aggressive surgical resection is the treatment of choice for IPN-B.

What prognostic factors are important for resected intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma?

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Our aim was to evaluate the predictive factors for survival and disease-free survival of patients with resected intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).

METHODS

Between October 1994 and 2005, 97 patients with ICC underwent curative hepatic resection. The tumors in 97 patients were reviewed retrospectively to examine the prognosis of ICC.

RESULTS

The 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates were 74.9%, 51.8% and 31.1%, respectively. The 1-, 3- and 5-year disease-free survival rates were 21.3%, 6.4% and 2.1%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that tumor size, tumor number, the gross type, resection margin status, T-stage and lymph node involvement were significant prognostic factors. Multiple tumors and cancer cells in the resection margin were found in multivariate analysis to be significantly related to the prognosis. In the multivariate analysis disease free survival was poor for the patients with a large tumor, multiple lesions, a high CA 19-9 level, cancer in the resection margin, advanced T-stage and lymph node involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall 5-year survival rate of ICC was 31.1%. Multiple intrahepatic lesions were a sign of a poor prognosis for ICC. Better survival could be achieved by curative resection with a tumor-free margin.