The impact of time to death in donors after circulatory death on recipient outcome in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation

The time to arrest donors after circulatory death is unpredictable and can vary. This leads to variable periods of warm ischemic damage prior to pancreas transplantation. There is little evidence supporting procurement team stand-down times based on donor time to death (TTD). We examined what impact TTD had on pancreas graft outcomes following donors after circulatory death (DCD) simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation. Data were extracted from the UK transplant registry from 2014 to 2022. Predictors of graft loss were evaluated using a Cox proportional hazards model. Adjusted restricted cubic spline models were generated to further delineate the relationship between TTD and outcome. Three-hundred-and-seventy-five DCD simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplant recipients were included. Increasing TTD was not associated with graft survival (adjusted hazard ratio HR 0.98, 95% confidence interval 0.68-1.41, P = .901). Increasing asystolic time worsened graft survival (adjusted hazard ratio 2.51, 95% confidence interval 1.16-5.43, P = .020). Restricted cubic spline modeling revealed a nonlinear relationship between asystolic time and graft survival and no relationship between TTD and graft survival. We found no evidence that TTD impacts pancreas graft survival after DCD simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation; however, increasing asystolic time was a significant predictor of graft loss. Procurement teams should attempt to minimize asystolic time to optimize pancreas graft survival rather than focus on the duration of TTD.

The development of new onset post-pancreatitis diabetes mellitus during hospitalisation is not associated with adverse outcomes

BACKGROUND

Patients with acute pancreatitis (AP) are at increased risk of developing post pancreatitis diabetes mellitus (PPDM). The aim of this study was to explore the incidence, risk factors and sequelae of developing PPDM in a UK tertiary referral centre.

METHODS

A prospectively collected single centre database was analysed. Patients were grouped according to whether they had DM or not. Patients with DM were further sub-grouped into pre-existing DM or PPDM. Outcomes measured included incidence of PPDM, mortality, ITU admission, overall length of stay (LOS) and local pancreatitis specific complications.

RESULTS

401 patients with AP between 2018 and 2021 were identified. Sixty-four (16%) of patients had pre-existing DM. Thirty-eight patients (11%) developed PPDM [mild (n = 4, 8.2%), moderate (n = 19, 10.1%), severe (n = 15, 15.2%), p = 0.326]. 71% required insulin therapy for the duration of follow-up or until death. The development of PPDM was strongly associated with the presence (p < 0.001) and extent of necrosis (p < 0.0001). On multi-variate analysis, the development of PPDM was not an independent predictor for increased LOS, ITU admission or overall mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of PPDM was 11%. There was a strong correlation with extent of necrosis and the development of PPDM. PPDM did not adversely affect morbidity or mortality.

Fibrin-based haemostatic agents for reducing blood loss in adult liver resection

BACKGROUND

Liver resection is the optimal treatment for selected benign and malignant liver tumours, but it can be associated with significant blood loss. Numerous anaesthetic and surgical techniques have been developed to reduce blood loss and improve perioperative outcomes. One such technique is the application of topical fibrin-based haemostatic agents (FBHAs) to the resection surface. There is no standard practice for FBHA use, and a variety of commercial agents and devices are available, as well as non-FBHAs (e.g. collagen-based agents). The literature is inconclusive on the effectiveness of these methods and on the clinical benefits of their routine use.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of fibrin-based haemostatic agents in reducing intraoperative blood loss in adults undergoing liver resection.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group (CHBG) Controlled Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, Science Citation Index Expanded, and Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science up to 20 January 2023. We also searched online trial registries, checked the reference lists of all primary studies, and contacted the authors of included trials for additional published or unpublished trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We considered for inclusion all randomised clinical trials evaluating FBHAs versus no topical intervention or non-FBHAs, irrespective of publication type, publication status, language of publication, and outcomes reported. Eligible participants could have any liver pathology and be undergoing major or minor liver resections through open or laparoscopic surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened the results of the literature search and used data extraction forms to collate the results. We expressed dichotomous outcome results as risk ratios (RRs) and continuous outcome results as mean differences (MDs), each with their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). We used a random-effects model for the main analyses. Our primary outcomes were perioperative mortality, serious adverse events, haemostatic efficacy, and health-related quality of life. Our secondary outcomes were efficacy as sealant, adverse events considered non-serious, operating time, and length of hospital stay. We assessed the certainty of the evidence with GRADE and presented results in two summary of findings tables.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 22 trials (2945 participants) evaluating FBHAs versus no intervention or non-FBHAs; 19 trials with 2642 participants provided data for the meta-analyses. Twelve trials reported commercial funding, one trial reported no financial support, and nine trials provided no information on funding. Below we present the most clinically relevant outcome results, also displayed in our summary of findings table. Fibrin-based haemostatic agents versus no intervention Six trials (1001 participants) compared FBHAs with no intervention. One trial was at low risk of bias in all five domains, and all other trials were at high or unclear risk of bias in at least one domain. Two trials were at high risk of bias related to blinding. It is unclear if FBHAs compared with no intervention have an effect on perioperative mortality (RR 2.58, 95% CI 0.89 to 7.44; 4 trials, 782 participants), serious adverse events (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.05; 4 trials, 782 participants), postoperative transfusion (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.40; 5 trials, 864 participants), reoperation (RR 2.92, 95% CI 0.58 to 14.61; 2 trials, 612 participants), or postoperative bile leak (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.48; 4 trials, 782 participants), as the certainty of evidence was very low for all these outcomes. Fibrin-based haemostatic agents versus non-fibrin-based haemostatic agents Sixteen trials (1944 participants) compared FBHAs with non-FBHAs. All trials had at least one domain at high or unclear risk of bias. Twelve trials were at high risk of bias related to blinding. It is unclear if FBHAs compared with non-FBHAs have an effect on perioperative mortality (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.72; 11 trials, 1436 participants), postoperative transfusion (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.25; 7 trials, 599 participants), reoperation (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.90; 3 trials, 358 participants), or postoperative bile leak (RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.60 to 2.21; 9 trials, 1115 participants), as the certainty of evidence was very low for all these outcomes. FBHAs compared with non-FBHAs may have little or no effect on the risk of serious adverse events (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.03; 9 trials, 1176 participants; low-certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence for the outcomes in both comparisons (FBHAs versus no intervention and FBHAs versus non-FBHAs) was of very low certainty (or low certainty in one instance) and cannot justify the routine use of FBHAs to reduce blood loss in adult liver resection. While the meta-analysis showed a reduced risk of reoperation with FBHAs compared with non-FBHAs, the analysis was confounded by the small number of trials reporting the event and the risk of bias in all these trials. Future trials should focus on the use of FBHAs in people undergoing liver resection who are at particularly high risk of bleeding. Investigators should evaluate clinically meaningful and patient-important outcomes and follow the SPIRIT and CONSORT statements.

Benchmarking of robotic and laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy by using two different methods

BACKGROUND

Benchmarking is an important tool for quality comparison and improvement. However, no benchmark values are available for minimally invasive spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy, either laparoscopically or robotically assisted. The aim of this study was to establish benchmarks for these techniques using two different methods.

METHODS

Data from patients undergoing laparoscopically or robotically assisted spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy were extracted from a multicentre database (2006-2019). Benchmarks for 10 outcomes were calculated using the Achievable Benchmark of Care (ABC) and best-patient-in-best-centre methods.

RESULTS

Overall, 951 laparoscopically assisted (77.3 per cent) and 279 robotically assisted (22.7 per cent) procedures were included. Using the ABC method, the benchmarks for laparoscopically assisted and robotically assisted spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy respectively were: 150 and 207 min for duration of operation, 55 and 100 ml for blood loss, 3.5 and 1.7 per cent for conversion, 0 and 1.7 per cent for failure to preserve the spleen, 27.3 and 34.0 per cent for overall morbidity, 5.1 and 3.3 per cent for major morbidity, 3.6 and 7.1 per cent for pancreatic fistula grade B/C, 5 and 6 days for duration of hospital stay, 2.9 and 5.4 per cent for readmissions, and 0 and 0 per cent for 90-day mortality. Best-patient-in-best-centre methodology revealed milder benchmark cut-offs for laparoscopically and robotically assisted procedures, with operating times of 254 and 262.5 min, blood loss of 150 and 195 ml, conversion rates of 5.8 and 8.2 per cent, rates of failure to salvage spleen of 29.9 and 27.3 per cent, overall morbidity rates of 62.7 and 55.7 per cent, major morbidity rates of 20.4 and 14 per cent, POPF B/C rates of 23.8 and 24.2 per cent, duration of hospital stay of 8 and 8 days, readmission rates of 20 and 15.1 per cent, and 90-day mortality rates of 0 and 0 per cent respectively.

CONCLUSION

Two benchmark methods for minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy produced different values, and should be interpreted and applied differently.

Benchmarking of minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy: European multicentre study

Background

Benchmarking is the process to used assess the best achievable results and compare outcomes with that standard. This study aimed to assess best achievable outcomes in minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (MIDPS).

Methods

This retrospective study included consecutive patients undergoing MIDPS for any indication, between 2003 and 2019, in 31 European centres. Benchmarks of the main clinical outcomes were calculated according to the Achievable Benchmark of Care (ABC™) method. After identifying independent risk factors for severe morbidity and conversion, risk-adjusted ABCs were calculated for each subgroup of patients at risk.

Results

A total of 1595 patients were included. The ABC was 2.5 per cent for conversion and 8.4 per cent for severe morbidity. ABC values were 160 min for duration of operation time, 8.3 per cent for POPF, 1.8 per cent for reoperation, and 0 per cent for mortality. Multivariable analysis showed that conversion was associated with male sex (OR 1.48), BMI exceeding 30 kg/m2 (OR 2.42), multivisceral resection (OR 3.04), and laparoscopy (OR 2.24). Increased risk of severe morbidity was associated with ASA fitness grade above II (OR 1.60), multivisceral resection (OR 1.88), and robotic approach (OR 1.87).

Conclusion

The benchmark values obtained using the ABC method represent optimal outcomes from best achievable care, including low complication rates and zero mortality. These benchmarks should be used to set standards to improve patient outcomes.

Dragon 1 Protocol Manuscript: Training, Accreditation, Implementation and Safety Evaluation of Portal and Hepatic Vein Embolization (PVE/HVE) to Accelerate Future Liver Remnant (FLR) Hypertrophy

STUDY PURPOSE

The DRAGON 1 trial aims to assess training, implementation, safety and feasibility of combined portal- and hepatic-vein embolization (PVE/HVE) to accelerate future liver remnant (FLR) hypertrophy in patients with borderline resectable colorectal cancer liver metastases.

METHODS

The DRAGON 1 trial is a worldwide multicenter prospective single arm trial. The primary endpoint is a composite of the safety of PVE/HVE, 90-day mortality, and one year accrual monitoring of each participating center. Secondary endpoints include: feasibility of resection, the used PVE and HVE techniques, FLR-hypertrophy, liver function (subset of centers), overall survival, and disease-free survival. All complications after the PVE/HVE procedure are documented. Liver volumes will be measured at week 1 and if applicable at week 3 and 6 after PVE/HVE and follow-up visits will be held at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the resection.

RESULTS

Not applicable.

CONCLUSION

DRAGON 1 is a prospective trial to assess the safety and feasibility of PVE/HVE. Participating study centers will be trained, and procedures standardized using Work Instructions (WI) to prepare for the DRAGON 2 randomized controlled trial. Outcomes should reveal the accrual potential of centers, safety profile of combined PVE/HVE and the effect of FLR-hypertrophy induction by PVE/HVE in patients with CRLM and a small FLR.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04272931 (February 17, 2020). Toestingonline.nl: NL71535.068.19 (September 20, 2019).

O092 Fibrin-based haemostatic agents for reducing blood loss in adult liver resection: a meta-analysis

Introduction

Liver resection can be associated with significant perioperative bleeding. Fibrin based haemostatic agents (FBHAs) are bioabsorbable topical haemostatic agents used to enhance haemostasis and reduce blood loss. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis, comparing FBHAs with the standard of care and no topical application (SoC), and comparing FBHAs with non-fibrin-based haemostatic agents (NFHAs) to evaluate their efficacy in reducing blood loss and improving perioperative outcomes.

Method

The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Specialised Register was searched to identify (quasi-) RCTs to include in our meta-analysis. Two authors independently reviewed each study. Primary outcomes were haemostatic efficacy (defined as haemostasis within 4 or 5 minutes post application), adverse events and perioperative mortality (within 30-days of surgery). Statistical analyses were performed using the random effects model and results expressed as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals.

Result

Twenty-seven RCTs (3736 participants) were included in our analysis. FBHAs were found to have superior haemostatic efficacy compared to NFHAs (OR 4.03; 1.73–9.36, p=0.001), and were superior to SoC (OR 13.59; 4.06–45.47, p&lt;0.0001). Incidence of adverse events and perioperative mortality was no different when comparing FBHAs with SoC or NFHAs. No differences were detected when testing for post-operative bile leakage, intra-abdominal collections, volume of abdominal drain output, post-operative transfusion requirements, reoperation rates and length of stay (all p&gt;0.05).

Conclusion

FBHAs appear superior to SoC and NFHAs in achieving haemostasis within 4–5 minutes post-application, however this does not translate into improved post-operative outcomes. FBHAs are not justified for routine use based on the available evidence.

O002 Diabetes-associated HLA donor genotypes and pancreas transplant outcomes

Introduction

The genotypes HLA DR3/DR4, DR3/DR3, DR4/DR4 are associated with a predisposition to diabetes. This study evaluated UK recipient outcomes after pancreas transplantation from donors with a diabetes-associated genotypes.

Methods

Data on all UK pancreas transplants from 2004–2019 was obtained from the NHSBT-UK Registry, n=2,938. HLA-DR type was recorded for all organ donors. Re-transplants and those missing patient (PS) or graft (GS) survival were excluded, resulting in a final cohort of n=2,661. We further delineated our categories into SPK, PTA and PAK as a previous study suggested different recipient categories may be adversely affected. Univariate analyses were conducted using Kaplan-Meier plots and multi-variate analysis using Cox-regression models. Complications were analysed using chi-squared analyses.

Results

The majority of grafts were from donors not associated with diabetes genotypes (90.1%, n=2397) whereas 5.4%(n=145) came from HLA DR3/DR4 donors, 1.6%(n=43) from DR3/DR3 and (n=76)2.9% from DR4/DR4. Comparable outcomes for GS at 1yr (SPK p=0.980, PTA p=0.759, PAK p=0.244) and 3yrs (SPK p=0.708, PTA p=0.744, PAK p=0.275) and PS at 1yr (SPK p=0.553, PTA p=0.527, PAK p=0.756) and 3yrs (SPK p=0.728, PTA p=0.928, PAK p=0.424) were seen. Multivariate analysis also showed no statistically significant difference in GS (p=0.604, HR 1.041, 95%CI 0.895, 1.211) or PS (p=0.623, HR 1.045, 95%CI 0.876, 1.248). There were comparable complication rates.

Conclusion

This multicentre UK study has found comparable survival outcomes and complication rates within our donor-HLA-genotype groups. We do not believe that the presence or absence of a diabetes associated HLA-genotype influences outcomes for any category of pancreas transplant.

Take-home message

We do not believe that the presence or absence of a diabetes-associated HLA-genotype influences outcomes for any category of pancreas transplant.

Laparoscopic versus open resections in the posterosuperior liver segments within an enhanced recovery programme (ORANGE Segments): study protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

A shift towards parenchymal-sparing liver resections in open and laparoscopic surgery emerged in the last few years. Laparoscopic liver resection is technically feasible and safe, and consensus guidelines acknowledge the laparoscopic approach in the posterosuperior segments. Lesions situated in these segments are considered the most challenging for the laparoscopic approach. The aim of this trial is to compare the postoperative time to functional recovery, complications, oncological safety, quality of life, survival and costs after laparoscopic versus open parenchymal-sparing liver resections in the posterosuperior liver segments within an enhanced recovery setting.

METHODS

The ORANGE Segments trial is an international multicentre randomised controlled superiority trial conducted in centres experienced in laparoscopic liver resection. Eligible patients for minor resections in the posterosuperior segments will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to undergo laparoscopic or open resections in an enhanced recovery setting. Patients and ward personnel are blinded to the treatment allocation until postoperative day 4 using a large abdominal dressing. The primary endpoint is time to functional recovery. Secondary endpoints include intraoperative outcomes, length of stay, resection margin, postoperative complications, 90-day mortality, time to adjuvant chemotherapy initiation, quality of life and overall survival. Laparoscopic liver surgery of the posterosuperior segments is hypothesised to reduce time to functional recovery by 2 days in comparison with open surgery. With a power of 80% and alpha of 0.04 to adjust for interim analysis halfway the trial, a total of 250 patients are required to be randomised.

DISCUSSION

The ORANGE Segments trial is the first multicentre international randomised controlled study to compare short- and long-term surgical and oncological outcomes of laparoscopic and open resections in the posterosuperior segments within an enhanced recovery programme.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03270917 . Registered on September 1, 2017. Before start of inclusion.

PROTOCOL VERSION

version 12, May 9, 2017.

Comparative analysis of open, laparoscopic and robotic distal pancreatic resection: The United Kingdom's first single-centre experience

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) has potential advantages over its open equivalent open distal pancreatectomy (ODP) for pancreatic disease in the neck, body and tail. Within the United Kingdom (UK), there has been no previous experience describing the role of robotic distal pancreatectomy (RDP). This study evaluated differences between ODP, LDP and RDP.

METHODS

Patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy performed in the Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery at the Freeman Hospital between September 2007 and December 2018 were included from a prospectively maintained database. The primary outcome measure was length of hospital stay, and the secondary outcome measures were complication rates graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

Of the 125 patients, the median age was 61 years and 46% were male. Patients undergoing RDP (n = 40) had higher American Society of Anesthesiologists grading III compared to ODP (n = 38) and LDP (n = 47) (57% vs. 37% vs. 38%, P = 0.02). RDP had a slightly lower but not significant conversion rate (10% vs. 13%, P = 0.084), less blood loss (median: 0 vs. 250 ml, P < 0.001) and a higher rate of splenic preservation (30% vs. 2%, P < 0.001) and shorter operative time, once docking time excluded (284 vs. 300 min, P < 0.001) compared to LDP. RDP had a higher R0 resection rate than ODP and LDP (79% vs. 47% vs. 71%, P = 0.078) for neoplasms. RDP was associated with significantly shorter hospital stay than LDP and ODP (8 vs. 9 vs. 10 days, P = 0.001). While there was no significant different in overall complications across the groups, RDP was associated with lower rates of Grade C pancreatic fistula than ODP and LDP (2% vs. 5% vs. 6%, P = 0.194).

CONCLUSION

Minimally invasive pancreatic resection offers potential advantages over ODP, with a trend showing RDP to be marginally superior when compared to conventional LDP, but it is accepted that that this is likely to be at greater expense compared to the other current techniques.

Adjuvant chemotherapy for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma: A population-based comparative cohort study

BACKGROUND

Data supporting routine use of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) compared to no AC (noAC) for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (hCCA) is unclear. This study aimed to determine whether AC improves long-term survival following resection for hCCA.

METHODS

Patients receiving resection for hCCA followed by AC or no AC from 2010 to 2016 were identified from the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Propensity score matching (PSM) and Cox regression was performed to account for selection bias and analyze impact of AC on overall survival.

RESULTS

Of 924 (56%) noAC and 719 (44%) AC, 320 noAC and 320 AC patients remained after PSM. After matching, AC was associated with improved survival (median: 28.2 vs 19.9 months, p < 0.001), which remained after multivariable adjustment (HR: 0.61, CI_95%: 0.50-0.75, p < 0.001). On multivariable interaction analyses, the benefit of AC over no AC persisted irrespective of nodal status: N0 (HR: 0.62, CI_95%: 0.41-0.92, p = 0.019), N1 (HR: 0.52, CI_95%: 0.36-0.75, p = 0.001), N2 (HR: 0.31, CI_95%: 0.11-0.90, p = 0.032), Nx (HR: 0.22, CI_95%: 0.09-0.55, p = 0.001) and margin status: R0 (HR: 0.74, CI_95%: 0.57-0.97, p = 0.026), R1 (HR: 0.31, CI_95%: 0.21-0.47, p < 0.001). Stratified analysis by nodal, margin and AC status demonstrated consistent results.

CONCLUSION

AC following resection for hCCA was associated with improved survival in this study, even in margin-negative and node-negative disease. These findings suggest incorporation of AC into multimodality therapy for hCCA in all cases, where appropriate.

Does minimally invasive liver resection improve long-term survival compared to open resection for hepatocellular carcinoma? A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Minimally invasive liver surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma has gained widespread interest as an alternative to conventional open liver surgery. However, long-term survival benefits of this approach seem unclear. This meta-analysis was conducted to investigate long-term survival following minimally invasive liver surgery.

METHOD

A systematic review was performed to identify studies comparing long-term survival after minimally invasive liver surgery and open liver surgery until January 2020. The I² test was used to test for statistical heterogeneity and publication bias was assessed using Egger test. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed for all-cause 5-year (main outcome) and 3-year mortality, and disease-specific 5-year and 3-year mortality. Meta-regression was performed for the 5-year and 3-year survival outcomes with adjustment for study factors (region, design), annual center volume, patient factors (American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, gender, age, body mass index, cirrhosis, tumor size, and number), and resection extent. Sensitivity analyses were performed on studies by study year, region, annual center volume, and resection type.

RESULT

The review identified 50 relevant studies including 13,731 patients undergoing liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma of which 4071 (25.8%) underwent minimally invasive liver surgery. Pooled analysis revealed similar all-cause (odds ratio: 0.83, 95% confidence interval: 0.70-1.11, p = 0.3) and disease-specific (odds ratio: 0.93, 95% confidence interval: 0.80-1.09, p = 0.4) 5-year mortality after minimally invasive liver surgery compared with open liver surgery. Sensitivity analysis of published studies from 2010 to 2019 demonstrated a significantly lower disease-specific 3-year mortality (odds ratio: 0.75, 95% confidence interval: 0.59-0.96, p = 0.022) and all-cause 5-year mortality (odds ratio: 0.63, 95% confidence interval: 0.50-0.81, p = 0.002). Meta-regression identified no confounding factors in all analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Improvement in minimally invasive liver surgery techniques over the past decade appears to demonstrate superior disease-specific mortality with minimally invasive liver surgery compared to open liver surgery. Therefore, minimally invasive liver surgery can be recommended as an alternative surgical approach for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Cognitive Motor Dual Task Costs in Older Adults with Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome

The purpose of this study was to characterize Cognitive Motor Dual Task (CMDT) costs for a community-based sample of older adults with Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome (MCR), as well as investigate associations between CMDT costs and cognitive performance. Twenty-five community-dwelling older adults (ages 60-89 years) with MCR performed single and dual task complex walking scenarios, as well as a computerized cognitive testing battery. Participants with lower CMDT costs had higher scores on composite measures of Working Memory, Processing Speed, and Shifting, as well as an overall cognitive composite measure. In addition, participants with faster single task gait velocity had higher scores on composite measures of Working Memory, Processing Speed, and overall cognition. Taken together, these results suggest that CMDT paradigms can help to elucidate the interplay between cognitive and motor abilities for older adults with MCR.

Adjuvant radiotherapy improves long-term survival after resection for gallbladder cancer A population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Data supporting routine use of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) compared to without RT (noRT) for gallbladder cancer (GBC) is unclear. This study aimed to determine whether RT improves long-term survival following resection for GBC.

METHODS

Patients receiving resection for GBC followed by RT from 2004 to 2016 were identified from the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Patients with survival <6 months were excluded to account for immortal time bias. Propensity score matching (PSM) and Cox regression was performed to account for selection bias and analyze impact of RT on overall survival.

RESULTS

Of 7514 (77%) noRT and 2261 (23%) RT, 2067 noRT and 2067 RT patients remained after PSM. After matching, RT was associated with improved survival (median: 26.2 vs 21.5 months, p < 0.001), which remained after multivariable adjustment (HR: 0.82, CI_95%: 0.76-0.89, p < 0.001). On multivariable interaction analyses, this benefit persisted irrespective of nodal status: N0 (HR: 0.84, CI_95%: 0.77-0.93), N1 (HR: 0.77, CI_95%: 0.68-0.88), N2/N3 (HR: 0.56, CI_95%: 0.35-0.91), margin status: R0 (HR: 0.85, CI_95%: 0.78-0.93), R1 (HR: 0.78, CI_95%: 0.68-0.88) and use of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) (HR: 0.67, CI_95%: 0.57-0.79). Benefit with RT were also seen in patients with T2 - T4 disease and in patients undergoing simple and extended cholecystectomy.

CONCLUSION

RT following resection was associated with improved survival in this study, even in margin-negative and node-negative disease. These findings may suggest addition of RT into multimodality therapy for GBC.

First World Consensus Conference on pancreas transplantation: Part II - recommendations

The First World Consensus Conference on Pancreas Transplantation provided 49 jury deliberations regarding the impact of pancreas transplantation on the treatment of diabetic patients, and 110 experts' recommendations for the practice of pancreas transplantation. The main message from this consensus conference is that both simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK) and pancreas transplantation alone can improve long-term patient survival, and all types of pancreas transplantation dramatically improve the quality of life of recipients. Pancreas transplantation may also improve the course of chronic complications of diabetes, depending on their severity. Therefore, the advantages of pancreas transplantation appear to clearly surpass potential disadvantages. Pancreas after kidney transplantation increases the risk of mortality only in the early period after transplantation, but is associated with improved life expectancy thereafter. Additionally, preemptive SPK, when compared to SPK performed in patients undergoing dialysis, appears to be associated with improved outcomes. Time on dialysis has negative prognostic implications in SPK recipients. Increased long-term survival, improvement in the course of diabetic complications, and amelioration of quality of life justify preferential allocation of kidney grafts to SPK recipients. Audience discussions and live voting are available online at the following URL address: http://mediaeventi.unipi.it/category/1st-world-consensus-conference-of-pancreas-transplantation/246.

A Network Meta-Analysis of Induction Immunosuppression for Simultaneous Pancreas-Kidney Transplant From Randomized Clinical Trials

OBJECTIVES

Induction immunosuppression for simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant has helped reduce graft loss due to early rejection. Both thymoglobulin and interleukin 2 receptor antagonists are the most commonly used induction agents; however, some high-volume centers prefer alemtuzumab.Thisnetwork meta-analysis aimedto compare differentinductionregimens for simultaneouspancreaskidney transplantin terms ofbothpancreas and patient graft survival, as well to assess acute rejection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review was conducted to identify randomized clinical trials up to October 31, 2019, that examined induction regimens for simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant. Study characteristics, postoperative data (patient, pancreas, and kidney graft survival), complications (eg, bleeding), infection rates, and malignancy rates were extracted. We compared all regimens using randomeffects network meta-analyses to maintain randomization within trials.

RESULTS

This study identified 7 randomized clinical trials that involved 536 patients, which reported 5 induction regimens. These regimens included antithymocyte globulin (97 patients), alemtuzumab (42 patients), 2 doses (113 patients) or 5 doses (164 patients) of daclizumab, and no induction therapy (120 patients). In the network meta-analysis, a regimen with 2 doses of daclizumab was consistently ranked first for patient survival and kidney and pancreas graft survival. In contrast, alemtuzumab was ranked best for acute rejection (both pancreas and kidney). Rates of majorinfection (ie, cytomegalovirus) and malignancy were reported in 3 studies, precluding a reliable analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Daclizumab with 2 doses, given before simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant, was associated with the best rates of patient and graft survival. Despite the recent withdrawal of daclizumab, an alternative anti-interleukin 2 induction regimen (basiliximab) has demonstrated promising results in nonrandomized series, warranting that further highquality large-scale randomized clinical trials are still needed.

O6: EARLY ANASTOMOTIC BILIARY COMPLICATIONS AFTER LIVER TRANSPLANTATION

Introduction

Biliary leaks and anastomotic strictures are common early biliary complications (EBC) following liver transplantation. However, their impact on outcomes remains controversial and poorly described.

Method

The NHS registry on adult liver transplantation between 2006 and 2017 was retrospectively reviewed (n=8304). Multiple imputations were performed to account for missing data. Adjusted regression models were used to assess predictors of EBC, and their impact on outcomes. 35 potential variables were included, and backwards stepwise selection enabled unbiased selection of variables for inclusion in final models.

Result

EBC occurred in 9.6% of patients. Adjusted cox regression revealed that EBCs have a significant and independent impact on graft survival (Leak HR=1.325; P=0.021, Stricture HR=1.514; P=0.002, Leak plus stricture HR=1.533; P=0.034) and patient survival (Leak HR=1.218; P=0.131, Stricture HR=1.578; P&lt;0.001, Leak plus stricture HR=1.507; P=0.044). Patients with EBC had longer median hospital stay (23 versus 15 days; P&lt;0.001) and increased chance for readmission within the first year (56% versus 32%; P&lt;0.001). On adjusted logistic regression the following were identified as independent risk factors for development of EBC: donation following circulatory death (OR=1.280; P=0.009), accessory hepatic artery (OR=1.324; P=0.005), vascular anastomosis time in minutes (OR=1.005; P=0.032) and ethnicity ‘other’ (OR=1.838; P=0.011).

Conclusion

EBCs prolong hospital stay, increase readmission rates and are independent risk factors for diminished graft survival and increased mortality in liver transplantation. We have identified factors that increase the likelihood of EBC occurrence; further research into interventions to prevent EBCs in these at-risk groups is vital to improve liver transplantation outcomes.

Take-home message

Using a large registry database we have shown that early anastomotic biliary complications are independent risk factors for decreased graft survival and increased mortality after liver transplantation. Research into interventions to prevent biliary complications in high risk groups are essential to improve liver transplant outcomes.

Risk factors and impact of early anastomotic biliary complications after liver transplantation: UK registry analysis

Background

Biliary leaks and anastomotic strictures are common early anastomotic biliary complications (EABCs) following liver transplantation. However, there are no large multicentre studies investigating their clinical impact or risk factors. This study aimed to define the incidence, risk factors and impact of EABC.

Methods

The NHS registry on adult liver transplantation between 2006 and 2017 was reviewed retrospectively. Adjusted regression models were used to assess predictors of EABC, and their impact on outcomes.

Results

Analyses included 8304 liver transplant recipients. Patients with EABC (9·6 per cent) had prolonged hospitalization (23 versus 15 days; P < 0·001) and increased chance for readmission within the first year (56 versus 32 per cent; P < 0·001). Patients with EABC had decreased estimated 5-year graft survival of 75·1 versus 84·5 per cent in those without EABC, and decreased 5-year patient survival of 76·9 versus 83·3 per cent; both P < 0.001. Adjusted Cox regression revealed that EABCs have a significant and independent impact on graft survival (leak hazard ratio (HR) 1·344, P = 0·015; stricture HR 1·513, P = 0·002; leak plus stricture HR 1·526, P = 0·036) and patient survival (leak HR 1·215, P = 0·136, stricture HR 1·526, P = 0·001; leak plus stricture HR 1·509; P = 0·043). On adjusted logistic regression, risk factors for EABC included donation after circulatory death grafts, graft aberrant arterial anatomy, biliary anastomosis type, vascular anastomosis time and recipient model of end-stage liver disease.

Conclusion

EABCs prolong hospital stay, increase readmission rates and are independent risk factors for graft loss and increased mortality. This study has identified factors that increase the likelihood of EABC occurrence; research into interventions to prevent EABCs in these at-risk groups is vital to improve liver transplantation outcomes.

P74 Long-term Survival After Minimally Invasive Resection versus Open Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Pancreatic Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Introduction

It remains unclear whether minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD) and open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) influences long-term survival in periampullary cancers. This review aims evaluate long-term survival between MIPD and OPD for periampullary cancers.

Methods

A systematic review was performed to identify studies comparing long-term survival after MIPD and OPD. The I2 test was used to test for statistical heterogeneity and publication bias using Egger test. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed for all-cause 5-year (main outcome) and 3-year survival, and disease-specific 5-year and 3-year survival. Meta-regression was performed for the 5- year and 3-year survival outcomes with adjustment for study (region, design, case matching), hospital (centre volume), patient (ASA grade, gender, age), and tumor (stage, neoadjuvant therapy, subtype (i.e. ampullary, distal bile duct, duodenal, pancreatic)). Sensitivity analyses performed on studies including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) only.

Results

The review identified 31 relevant studies. Among all 58,622 patients, 8716 (14.9%) underwent MIPD and 49,875 (85.1%) underwent OPD. Pooled analysis revealed similar 5-year overall survival after MIPD compared with OPD (HR: 0.78, 95% CI 0.50–1.22, p = 0.2). Meta-regression indicated case matching, and ASA Grade II and III as confounding covariates. The statistical heterogeneity was limited (I2 = 12, c2 = 0.26) and the funnel plot was symmetrical both according to visual and statistical testing (Egger test = 0.32). Sensitivity subset analyses for PDAC demonstrated similar 5-year overall survival after MIPD compared with OPD (HR 0.69, 95% CI: 0.32–1.50, p = 0.3).

Conclusion

Long-term survival after MIPD is similar to OPD. Thus, MIPD can be recommended as a standard surgical approach for periampullary cancers.

P75 Long-Term Survival After Minimally Invasive Resection versus Open Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression

Introduction

Minimally invasive liver surgery (MILS) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has gained widespread interest as an alternative to conventional open liver surgery (OLS). However, long-term survival benefits of this approach seem unclear. This meta- analysis was conducted to investigate long-term survival following MILS.

Methods

A systematic review was performed to identify studies comparing long-term survival after MILS and OLS until January 2020. The I2 test was used to test for statistical heterogeneity and publication bias was assessed using Egger test. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed for all-cause 5-year (main outcome) and 3-year mortality, and disease-specific 5-year and 3-year mortality. Meta-regression was performed for the 5-year and 3-year survival outcomes with adjustment for study factors (region, design), annual center volume, patient factors (ASA grade, gender, age, BMI, cirrhosis, tumor size and number), and resection extent. Sensitivity analyses were performed on studies by study year, region, annual centre volume, resection type.

Results

The review identified 50 relevant studies including 13,731 patients undergoing liver resection for HCC of which 4,071 (25.8%) underwent MILS. Pooled analysis revealed similar all-cause (OR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.70 - 1.11, p = 0.3) and disease-specific (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.80 - 1.09, p = 0.4) 5-year mortality after MILS compared with OLS. Sensitivity analysis of published studies from 2010 to 2019 demonstrated a significantly lower disease-specific 3-year mortality (OR 0.75, 95% CI: 0.59 - 0.96, p = 0.022) and all cause 5-year mortality (OR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.50 - 0.81, p = 0.002). Meta- regression identified no confounding factors in all analyses.

Conclusions

Improvement in MILS techniques over the past decade appears to demonstrate superior disease-specific mortality with MILS compared to OLS. Therefore, MILS can be recommended as a standard surgical approach for HCC.

Treatment strategies for early stage hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Several treatment strategies for early stage hepatocellular cancers (HCC) have been evaluated in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). This network meta-analysis (NMA) aimed to explore the relative effectiveness of these different approaches on their impact on overall (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted to identify RCT's reported up to 23rd January 2020. Indirect comparisons of all regimens were simultaneously compared using random-effects NMA.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight RCT's, involving 3,618 patients, reporting 13 different treatment strategies for early stage HCC were identified. Median follow-up, reported in 22 studies, ranged from 12-93 months. In this NMA, RFA in combination with iodine-125 was ranked first for both RFS (HR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.19-1.31) and OS (HR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.19-0.94). In subgroup with solitary HCC, lack of studies reporting RFS precluded reliable analysis. However, RFA in combination with iodine-125 was associated with markedly better OS (HR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.05-0.93).

CONCLUSION

This NMA identified RFA in combination with iodine-125 as a treatment delivering better RFS and OS, in patients with early stage HCC, especially for those with solitary HCC. This technique warrants further evaluation in both Asia and Western regions.

Adjuvant Chemotherapy Associated with Survival Benefit Following Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Pancreatectomy for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Population-Based Cohort Study

Background

Data supporting the routine use of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) compared with no AC (noAC) following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and resection for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are lacking. This study aimed to determine whether AC improves long-term survival in patients receiving NAC and resection.

Methods

Patients receiving resection for PDAC following NAC from 2004 to 2016 were identified from the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB). Patients with a survival rate of < 6 months were excluded to account for immortal time bias. Propensity score matching (PSM) and Cox regression analysis were performed to account for selection bias and analyze the impact of AC on overall survival.

Results

Of 4449 (68%) noAC patients and 2111 (32%) AC patients, 2016 noAC patients and 2016 AC patients remained after PSM. After matching, AC was associated with improved survival (median 29.4 vs. 24.9 months; p < 0.001), which remained after multivariable adjustment (HR 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75–0.88; p < 0.001). On multivariable interaction analyses, this benefit persisted irrespective of nodal status: N0 (hazard ratio [HR] 0.80, 95% CI 0.72–0.90; p < 0.001), N1 (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.67–0.86; p < 0.001), R0 margin status (HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.75–0.89; p < 0.001), R1 margin status (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64–0.93; p = 0.007), no neoadjuvant radiotherapy (NART; HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74–0.96; p = 0.009), and use of NART (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.73–0.88; p < 0.001). Stratified analysis by nodal, margin, and NART status demonstrated consistent results.

Conclusion

AC following NAC and resection is associated with improved survival, even in margin-negative and node-negative disease. These findings suggest completing planned systemic treatment should be considered in all resected PDACs previously treated with NAC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1245/s10434-021-09823-0.

Early protocol computer tomography and endovascular interventions in pancreas transplantation

BACKGROUND

Early vascular complications following pancreatic transplantation are not uncommon (3%-8%). Typically, cross-sectional imaging is requested in response to clinical change. We instituted a change in protocol to request imaging pre-emptively to identify patients with thrombotic complications.

METHODS

In 2013, protocol computer tomography angiography (CTA) at days 3-5 and day 10 following pancreas transplantation was introduced. A retrospective analysis of all pancreas transplants performed at our institution from January 2001 to May 2019 was undertaken.

RESULTS

A total of 115 patients received pancreas transplants during this time period. A total of 78 received pancreas transplant without routine CTA and 37 patients with the new protocol. Following the change in protocol, we detected a high number of subclinical thromboses (41.7%). There was a significant decrease in invasive intervention for thrombosis (78.6% before vs 30.8% after, p = .02), and graft survival was significantly higher (61.5% before vs 86.1% after, p = .04). There was also a significant reduction in the number of graft failures (all-cause) where thrombosis was present (23.4% before vs 5.6% after, p = .02). Patient survival was unaffected (p = .48).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of early protocol CTA identifies a large number of patients with subclinical graft thromboses that are more amenable to conservative management and significantly reduces the requirement for invasive intervention.

Does center or surgeon volume influence adoption of minimally invasive versus open pancreatoduodenectomy? A systematic review and meta-regression

BACKGROUND

There has been increasing uptake of minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy during the past decade, but it remains a highly specialized procedure as benefits over open pancreatoduodenectomy remain contentious. This study aimed to evaluate current evidence on minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy versus open pancreatoduodenectomy in terms of impact of center volume on outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic review of articles on comparative cohort and registry studies on minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy versus open pancreatoduodenectomy published until 31st December 2019 were identified, and meta-analyses were performed. Primary endpoints were International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula and 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

After screening 7,390 studies, 43 comparative cohort studies (8,755 patients) with moderate methodological quality and 3 original registry studies (43,735 patients) were included. For the cohort studies, the median annual hospital minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy volume was 10. No significant differences were found in grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula (odds ratio: 0.98, 95% confidence interval: 0.78-1.23) or 30-day mortality (odds ratio: 1.14, 95% confidence interval: 0.65-2.01) between minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy when compared with open. No publication biases were present and meta-regression identified no confounding for grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula, center volume or 30-day mortality. Minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy was only strongly associated with significantly lower rates of postoperative pulmonary complications and surgical site infection, shorter length of stay, and significantly higher rates of R0 margin resections.

CONCLUSION

Minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy remains noninferior to open pancreatoduodenectomy for grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula but is strongly associated with significantly lower rates of postoperative pulmonary complications and surgical site infection. Minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy can be adopted safely with good outcomes irrespective of annual center resection volume.

c-Rel orchestrates energy-dependent epithelial and macrophage reprogramming in fibrosis

Fibrosis is a common pathological feature of chronic disease. Deletion of the NF-κB subunit c-Rel limits fibrosis in multiple organs, although the mechanistic nature of this protection is unresolved. Using cell-specific gene-targeting manipulations in mice undergoing liver damage, we elucidate a critical role for c-Rel in controlling metabolic changes required for inflammatory and fibrogenic activities of hepatocytes and macrophages and identify Pfkfb3 as the key downstream metabolic mediator of this response. Independent deletions of Rel in hepatocytes or macrophages suppressed liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride, while combined deletion had an additive anti-fibrogenic effect. In transforming growth factor-β1-induced hepatocytes, c-Rel regulates expression of a pro-fibrogenic secretome comprising inflammatory molecules and connective tissue growth factor, the latter promoting collagen secretion from HMs. Macrophages lacking c-Rel fail to polarize to M1 or M2 states, explaining reduced fibrosis in RelΔLysM mice. Pharmacological inhibition of c-Rel attenuated multi-organ fibrosis in both murine and human fibrosis. In conclusion, activation of c-Rel/Pfkfb3 in damaged tissue instigates a paracrine signalling network among epithelial, myeloid and mesenchymal cells to stimulate fibrogenesis. Targeting the c-Rel-Pfkfb3 axis has potential for therapeutic applications in fibrotic disease.

Robotic Versus Conventional Laparoscopic Liver Resections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Theoretical advantages of robotic surgery compared to conventional laparoscopic surgery include improved instrument dexterity, 3D visualization, and better ergonomics. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine advantages of robotic surgery over laparoscopic surgery in patients undergoing liver resections.

METHOD

A systematic literature search was conducted for studies comparing robotic assisted or totally laparoscopic liver resection. Meta-analysis of intraoperative (operative time, blood loss, transfusion rate, conversion rate), oncological (R0 resection rates), and postoperative (bile leak, surgical site infection, pulmonary complications, 30-day and 90-day mortality, length of stay, 90-day readmission and reoperation rates) outcomes was performed using a random effects model.

RESULT

Twenty-six non-randomized studies including 2630 patients (950 robotic and 1680 laparoscopic) were included, of which 20% had major robotic liver resection and 14% had major laparoscopic liver resection. Intraoperatively, robotic liver resection was associated with significantly less blood loss (mean: 286 vs 301 mL, p < 0.001) but longer operating time (mean: 281 vs 221 min, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in conversion rates or transfusion rates between robotic liver resection and laparoscopic liver resection. Postoperatively, there were no significant differences in overall complications, bile leaks, and length of hospital stay between robotic liver resection and laparoscopic liver resection. However, robotic liver resection was associated with significantly lower readmission rates than laparoscopic liver resection (odds ratio: 0.43, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Robotic liver resection appears to offer some advantages compared to conventional laparoscopic surgery, although both techniques appear equivalent. Importantly, the quality of evidence is generally limited to cohort studies and a high-quality randomized trial comparing both techniques is needed.

Gemcitabine-based adjuvant chemotherapy in subtypes of ampullary adenocarcinoma: international propensity score-matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

Whether patients who undergo resection of ampullary adenocarcinoma have a survival benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to compare survival between patients with and without adjuvant chemotherapy after resection of ampullary adenocarcinoma in a propensity score-matched analysis.

METHODS

An international multicentre cohort study was conducted, including patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy for ampullary adenocarcinoma between 2006 and 2017, in 13 centres in six countries. Propensity scores were used to match patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy with those who did not, in the entire cohort and in two subgroups (pancreatobiliary/mixed and intestinal subtypes). Survival was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analyses.

RESULTS

Overall, 1163 patients underwent pancreatoduodenectomy for ampullary adenocarcinoma. After excluding 187 patients, median survival in the remaining 976 patients was 67 (95 per cent c.i. 56 to 78) months. A total of 520 patients (53·3 per cent) received adjuvant chemotherapy. In a propensity score-matched cohort (194 patients in each group), survival was better among patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy than in those who did not (median survival not reached versus 60 months respectively; P = 0·051). A survival benefit was seen in patients with the pancreatobiliary/mixed subtype; median survival was not reached in patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy and 32 months in the group without chemotherapy (P = 0·020). Patients with the intestinal subtype did not show any survival benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Patients with resected ampullary adenocarcinoma may benefit from gemcitabine-based adjuvant chemotherapy, but this effect may be reserved for those with the pancreatobiliary and/or mixed subtype.

β-Cell and renal transplantation options for diabetes

Despite major advances in structured education, insulin delivery and glucose monitoring, diabetes self-management remains an unremitting challenge. Insulin therapy is inextricably linked to risk of dangerous hypoglycaemia and sustained hyperglycaemia remains a leading cause of renal failure. This review sets out to demystify transplantation for diabetes multidisciplinary teams, facilitating consideration and incorporation within holistic overall person-centred management. Deceased and living donor kidney, whole pancreas and isolated islet transplant procedures, indications and potential benefits are described, in addition to outcomes within the integrated UK transplant programme.

Prospective assessment of resection margin status following pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma after standardisation of margin definitions

BACKGROUND

Surgical resection remains the only curative treatment for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The prognostic value of resection margin status following pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) remains controversial. Standardised pathological assessment increases positive margins but limited data is available on the significance of involved margins. We investigated the impact of resection margin status in PDAC on patient outcome.

METHOD

We identified all patients with PD for PDAC at one pancreatic cancer centre between August 2008 and December 2014. Demographic, operative, adjuvant therapeutic and survival data was obtained. Pathology data including resection margin status of specific anatomic margins was collected and analysed.

RESULTS

107 patients were included, all pathologically staged as T3 with 102 N1. 87.9% of patients were R1 of which 53.3% showed direct extension to the resection margin. Median survival for R0 patients versus R1<1 mm and R1 = 0 mm was 28.4 versus 15.4 and 25.1 versus 13.4 months. R1 = 0 mm status remained a predictor of poor outcome on multivariate analysis. Evaluation of individual margins (R1<1 mm) showed the SMV and SMA margins were associated with poorer overall survival. Multiple involved margins impacted negatively on outcome. SMA margin patient outcome with R1 = 1-1.9 mm was similar to R1=>2 mm.

CONCLUSION

Using an R1 definition of <1 mm and standardised pathology we demonstrate that R1 rates in PDAC can approach 90%. R1 = 0 mm remained an independent prognostic factor for overall survival. Using R1<1 mm we have shown that involvement of medial margins and multiple margins has significant negative impact on overall survival. We conclude that not all margin positivity has the same prognostic significance.

A systematic review and network meta-analysis of parenchymal transection techniques during hepatectomy: an appraisal of current randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Major liver resection can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Blood loss is one of the most important factors predicting a good outcome. Although various transection methods have been reported, there is no consensus on the best technique. This systematic review and network meta-analysis aims to characterise and identify the best reported technique for elective parenchymal liver transection based on published randomised controlled trials (RCT's).

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central to identify RCT's up to 5th June 2019 that examined parenchymal transection for liver resection. Data including study characteristics and outcomes including intraoperative (blood loss, operating time) and postoperative measures (overall and major complications, bile leaks) were extracted. Indirect comparisons of all regimens were simultaneously compared using random-effects network meta-analyses (NMA) which maintains randomisation within trials.

RESULTS

This study identified 22 RCT's involving 2360 patients reporting ten parenchymal transection techniques. Bipolar cautery has lower blood loss and shorter operating time than stapler (mean difference: 85 mL; 22min) and Tissue Link (mean difference: 66 mL; 29min). Bipolar cautery was ranked first for blood loss and operating time followed by stapler and TissueLink. Harmonic scalpel is associated with lower overall complications than Hydrojet (Odds ratio (OR): 0.48), BiClamp forceps (OR: 0.46) and clamp crushing (OR: 0.41).

CONCLUSION

Bipolar cautery techniques appear to best at reducing blood loss and associated with shortest operating time. In contrast, Harmonic scalpel appears best for overall and major complications. Given the paucity of data and selective outcome reporting, it is still hard to identify what is the best technique for liver resection. Therefore, further high-quality large-scale RCT's are still needed.

NUTRITIONAL RISK STATUS, DIETARY INTAKE AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE IN OLDER ADULTS WITH MOTORIC COGNITIVE RISK SYNDROME

Background

Modifiable lifestyle factors such as diet are associated with cognitive decline and dementia. Greater understanding of the nutritional intake of older adults who are at increased risk for cognitive decline may allow for the development of more effective dietary interventions to prevent or delay the onset of dementia.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to characterize the nutritional status, diet quality and individual nutritional components of older adults with motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR). MCR is a pre-dementia syndrome classified by slow gait speed and subjective memory impairments.

Design

Cross-sectional analysis.

Setting

A community-based senior center located in an urban setting.

Participants

Twenty-five community-dwelling older adults with MCR aged 60-89 yrs.

Measurements

Nutritional risk status was determined using the Nestle Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA). A food frequency questionnaire was used to quantify: overall dietary quality using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI); adherence to the Mediterranean-DASH for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) dietary pattern; and intake of individual nutritional components shown to be protective or harmful for cognitive function in older adults. Participants completed a computerized cognitive testing battery to assess cognitive abilities.

Results

More than one third (36%) of participants were at increased risk for malnutrition. Participants at lower risk for malnutrition had better working memory (r = 0.40, p = 0.04), executive functioning (r = 0.44, p = 0.03), and overall cognition (r = 0.44, p = 0.03). While participants generally consumed a reasonable quality diet (HEI = 65.15), 48% of participants had poor adherence to a neuroprotective MIND dietary pattern. Higher intake of B-complex vitamins was associated with better task switching (r = 0.40, p ≤ 0.05) and faster processing speeds (r = 0.39, p ≤ 0.05). Higher vitamin C intake was associated with better executive functioning (r = 0.40, p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that a significant proportion of older adults with MCR may be at increased risk for malnutrition. While the diet quality of older adults with MCR appeared to need improvement, future studies should investigate the effects of more specific nutritional interventions, including the MIND diet, on cognition in at-risk older adults.

A Bioreactor Technology for Modeling Fibrosis in Human and Rodent Precision-Cut Liver Slices

Precision cut liver slices (PCLSs) retain the structure and cellular composition of the native liver and represent an improved system to study liver fibrosis compared to two-dimensional mono- or co-cultures. The aim of this study was to develop a bioreactor system to increase the healthy life span of PCLSs and model fibrogenesis. PCLSs were generated from normal rat or human liver, or fibrotic rat liver, and cultured in our bioreactor. PCLS function was quantified by albumin enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Fibrosis was induced in PCLSs by transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGFββ) stimulation ± therapy. Fibrosis was assessed by gene expression, picrosirius red, and α-smooth muscle actin staining, hydroxyproline assay, and soluble ELISAs. Bioreactor-cultured PCLSs are viable, maintaining tissue structure, metabolic activity, and stable albumin secretion for up to 6 days under normoxic culture conditions. Conversely, standard static transwell-cultured PCLSs rapidly deteriorate, and albumin secretion is significantly impaired by 48 hours. TGFβ1/PDGFββ stimulation of rat or human PCLSs induced fibrogenic gene expression, release of extracellular matrix proteins, activation of hepatic myofibroblasts, and histological fibrosis. Fibrogenesis slowly progresses over 6 days in cultured fibrotic rat PCLSs without exogenous challenge. Activin receptor-like kinase 5 (Alk5) inhibitor (Alk5i), nintedanib, and obeticholic acid therapy limited fibrogenesis in TGFβ1/PDGFββ-stimulated PCLSs, and Alk5i blunted progression of fibrosis in fibrotic PCLS. Conclusion: We describe a bioreactor technology that maintains functional PCLS cultures for 6 days. Bioreactor-cultured PCLSs can be successfully used to model fibrogenesis and demonstrate efficacy of antifibrotic therapies.

Robotic versus conventional laparoscopic distal pancreatic resection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Robotic surgery offers theoretical advantages to conventional laparoscopic surgery including improved instrument dexterity, 3D visualization and better ergonomics. This review aimed to determine if these theoretical advantages translate into improved patient outcomes in patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy through laparoscopic (LDP) or robotic (RDP) approaches.

METHOD

A systematic literature search was conducted for studies reporting minimally invasive surgery for distal pancreatectomy. Meta-analysis of intraoperative (blood loss, operating times, conversion and R0 resections) and postoperative outcomes (overall complications, pancreatic fistula, length of hospital stay) was performed using random effects models.

RESULT

Twenty non-randomised studies including 3112 patients (793 robotic and 2319 laparoscopic) were considered appropriate for inclusion. LDP had significantly shorter operating time than RDP (mean: 28, p < 0.001) but no significant difference in blood loss (mean: 52 mL, p = 0.07). RDP was associated with significantly lower conversion rates than LDP (OR 0.48, p < 0.001), but no difference in spleen preservation rate and R0 resection. There were no significant differences in overall and major complications, overall and high-grade pancreatic fistula. However, RDP was associated with a shorter length of hospital stay (mean: 1, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Robotic distal pancreatectomy appears to offer some advantages compared to conventional laparoscopic surgery, although both techniques appear equivalent. Importantly, the quality of evidence is generally limited to cohort studies and a high-quality randomised trial comparing both techniques are needed.

Multicentre observational cohort study of implementation and outcomes of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) is increasingly being performed as an alternative to open surgery. Whether the implementation and corresponding learning curve of LDP have an impact on patient outcome is unknown. The aim was to investigate the temporal trends in practice across UK centres.

METHODS

This was a retrospective multicentre observational cohort study of LDP in 11 tertiary referral centres in the UK between 2006 and 2016. The learning curve was analysed by pooling data for the first 15 consecutive patients who had LDP and examining trends in surgical outcomes in subsequent patients.

RESULTS

In total, 570 patients underwent LDP, whereas 888 underwent open resection. For LDP the median duration of operation was 240 min, with 200 ml blood loss. The conversion rate was 12·1 per cent. Neuroendocrine tumours (26·7 per cent) and mucinous cystic neoplasms (19·7 per cent) were commonest indications. The proportion of LDPs increased from 24·4 per cent in 2006-2009 (P1) to 46·0 per cent in 2014-2016 (P3) (P < 0·001). LDP was increasingly performed for patients aged 70 years or more (16 per cent in P1 versus 34·4 per cent in P3; P = 0·002), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (6 versus 19·1 per cent; P = 0·005) and advanced malignant tumours (27 versus 52 per cent; P = 0·016). With increasing experience, there was a trend for a decrease in blood transfusion rate (14·1 per cent for procedures 1-15 to 3·5 per cent for procedures 46-75; P = 0·008), ICU admissions (32·7 to 19·2 per cent; P = 0·021) and median duration of hospital stay (7 (i.q.r. 5-9) to 6 (4-7) days; P = 0·002). After 30 procedures, a decrease was noted in rates of both overall morbidity (57·7 versus 42·2 per cent for procedures 16-30 versus 46-75 respectively; P = 0·009) and severe morbidity (18·8 versus 9·7 per cent; P = 0·031).

CONCLUSION

LDP has increased as a treatment option for lesions of the distal pancreas as indications for the procedure have expanded. Perioperative outcomes improved with the number of procedures performed.

Robotic versus conventional laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) offers theoretical advantages to conventional laparoscopic surgery including improved instrument dexterity, 3D visualization and better ergonomics. This review aimed to determine if these theoretical advantages translate into improved patient outcomes comparing patients having either robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy or laparoscopic (LPD) equivalent.

METHOD

A systematic literature search was conducted for studies reporting minimally invasive surgery for pancreaticoduodenectomy either robotic assisted or totally laparoscopic. Meta-analysis of intra-operative (blood loss, operating times, conversion and R0 resections) and postoperative outcomes (overall complications, pancreatic fistula, length of hospital stay) was performed using a random effects model.

RESULT

This review identified 44 studies, of which six were non-randomised comparative studies including 3462 patients (1025 robotic and 2437 laparoscopic). Intraoperatively, RPD was associated with significantly lower conversion rates (OR 0.45, p < 0.001) and transfusion rates (OR: 0.60, p = 0.002) compared to LPD. However, no significant difference in blood loss (mean: 220 vs 287 mL, p = 0.1), operating time (mean: 405 vs 418 min, p = 0.3) was noted. Postoperatively RPD was associated with a shorter hospital stay (mean: 12 vs 11 days, p < 0.001) but no significant difference was noted in postoperative complications, incidence of pancreatic fistulae and R0 resection rates.

CONCLUSION

RPD appears to offer some advantages compared to conventional laparoscopic surgery, although both approaches appear to offer equivalent clinical outcomes. Importantly, the quality of evidence is generally limited to cohort studies and a high-quality randomised trial comparing both techniques is needed.

Open Source Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Framework: Tutorial on the BioGears Engine

BioGears is an open-source, lumped parameter, full-body human physiology engine. Its purpose is to provide realistic and comprehensive simulations for medical training, research, and education. BioGears incorporates a physiologically based pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model that is designed to be applicable to a diversity of drug classes and patients and is extensible to future drugs. In addition, BioGears also supports drug interactions with various patient insults and interventions allowing for a realistic research framework and accurate dose-patient responses. This tutorial will demonstrate how the generic BioGears PK/PD model can be extended to a new substance for prediction of drug administration outcomes.

NARCA: A novel prognostic scoring system using neutrophil-albumin ratio and Ca19-9 to predict overall survival in palliative pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Several serum based-markers and ratios have been investigated for their prognostic value in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). This cohort study aimed to combine these into a novel prognostic scoring system.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed on 145 patients with unresectable histologically-confirmed PDAC. Based on the existing literature the following markers were investigated: neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), neutrophil-albumin ratio (NAR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), fibrinogen, and Ca19-9. These values were dichotomized about their medians for Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

Univariate Cox regression revealed statistically significant prognostic value for: NLR, NAR, PLR, fibrinogen, and Ca19-9. When combining these using Cox regression analysis adjusting for other prognostic indicators, only NAR (hazard ratios [HR] = 3.174, P = 0.022) and Ca19-9 (HR = 2.697, P = 0.031) were independent predictors of survival. Combining NAR and Ca19-9 we split the cohort into three "NARCA" groups: NARCA0 = NAR ≤ 0.13 and Ca19-9 ≤ 770, NARCA1 = either NAR > 0.13 or Ca19-9 >770, NARCA2 = NAR > 0.13 and Ca19-9 > 770. Median survival was 20.5, 9.7 and 4.1 months in NARCA0, 1, and 2 respectively ( P < 0.0005, log-rank test). A separate validation cohort confirmed the prognostic significance of the score ( P = 0.048).

CONCLUSIONS

Combining NAR and Ca19-9 into a prognostic score allows stratification of unresectable PDAC patients into groups with significantly different overall survival.

Small, incidental hepatic epithelioid haemangioendothelioma the role of ablative therapy in borderline patients

Primary hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (HEHE) is an extremely rare tumor of vascular origin with an incidence of <0.1 per 100 000 population. We describe a 70-year-old man with renal cell carcinoma managed via robotic right partial nephrectomy who was also found to have a solitary 10 mm lesion on a pre-operative staging computer tomography (CT) scan. The patient underwent percutaneous biopsy and local ablation of the lesion consistent with an epithelioid hepatic haemangioendothelioma. Post-procedure CT scan after 1 month showed adequate ablation margins with no new lesions. The role of local ablation for solitary, small HEHE is discussed.

Endoscopic management of duodeno-ileal fistula secondary to diffuse B-cell lymphoma

Lymphoma arising in the gastrointestinal tract is relatively common and can affect multiple sites. The development of a gastrointestinal fistula secondary to lymphoma is very rare and has not previously been reported between the duodenum and ileum. This is the first reported care where a fistula secondary to lymphoma has been treated by an endoscopic covered duodenal stent occluding the defect rather than surgical intervention. This strategy permitted early commencement of curative intent chemotherapy which led to tumour shrinkage and fistula closure.

Erratum: Title of article: Why more mothers die - Confidential enquiries into institutional maternal deaths in the Southern Region of Malawi, 2001

[This corrects the article on p. 73 in vol. 17.].

Mice with Dab1 or Vldlr insufficiency exhibit abnormal neonatal vocalization patterns

Genetic and epigenetic changes in components of the Reelin-signaling pathway (RELN, DAB1) are associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk. Social communication deficits are a key component of the ASD diagnostic criteria, but the underlying neurogenetic mechanisms remain unknown. Reln insufficient mice exhibit ASD-like behavioral phenotypes including altered neonatal vocalization patterns. Reelin affects multiple pathways including through the receptors, Very low-density lipoprotein receptor (Vldlr), Apolipoprotein receptor 2 (Apoer2), and intracellular signaling molecule Disabled-1 (Dab1). As Vldlr was previously implicated in avian vocalization, here we investigate vocalizations of neonatal mice with a reduction or absence of these components of the Reelin-signaling pathway. Mice with low or no Dab1 expression exhibited reduced calling rates, altered call-type usage, and differential vocal development trajectories. Mice lacking Vldlr expression also had altered call repertoires, and this effect was exacerbated by deficiency in Apoer2. Together with previous findings, these observations 1) solidify a role for Reelin in vocal communication of multiple species, 2) point to the canonical Reelin-signaling pathway as critical for development of normal neonatal calling patterns in mice, and 3) suggest that mutants in this pathway could be used as murine models for Reelin-associated vocal deficits in humans.

A conserved asparagine makes an essential contact to an RNA adenosine or cytidine

Abstract Post-transriptional regulation of yeast ribosomal protein L30, RPL30, requires the formation of a complex comprised of RPL30 and its RNA transcript [J. Vilardell and J. R. Warner, Genes & Dev. 8, 211-220 (1994)]. Mutational analysis of both the RNA and the protein reveals that an asparagine-adenosine contact is important. Replacement of the asparagine by alanine weakens binding dramatically, but substitution of the adenosine by cytidine or guanosine slightly increases or decreases respective binding affinities for RPL30. The structure of the complex has been solved by NMR and shows a conserved asparagine in position to form two hydrogen bonds with adenosine's Watson-Crick face [H. Mao, S. A. White and J. R. Williamson, Nat. Struct. Biol. 6, 1139-1147 (1999)]. Asparagine is necessary for this interaction but relatively small differences in binding affinity are measured for three different nucleotides.

The role of exosomes in the pathogenesis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Exosomes are small membrane bound vesicles secreted by cancer cells that have a cytosol rich in proteins and nucleic acids which are capable of modulating the phenotype of neighbouring cells which take them up. In this review we explore the mechanisms through which exosomes are able to impact on the pathogenesis of pancreatic ductal cancer through the modulation of tumour formation and development and exploitation of the tumour microenvironment to modulate both the adaptive and innate immune response. In addition we highlight the potential utility of exosomes not only as biomarkers of disease but also as tools to be used in the therapeutic armamentarium against this disease.

Progenitor-derived hepatocyte-like (B-13/H) cells metabolise 1'-hydroxyestragole to a genotoxic species via a SULT2B1-dependent mechanism

Rat B-13 progenitor cells are readily converted into functional hepatocyte-like B-13/H cells capable of phase I cytochrome P450-dependent activation of pro-carcinogens and induction of DNA damage. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the cells are also capable of Phase II sulphotransferase (SULT)-dependent activation of a pro-carcinogen to an ultimate carcinogen. To this end we therefore examined the bioactivation of the model hepatic (hepato- and cholangio-) carcinogen estragole and its proximate SULT1A1-activated genotoxic metabolite 1'-hydroxyestragole. Exposing B-13 or B-13/H cells to estragole (at concentrations up to 1mM) resulted in the production of low levels of 1'-hydroxyestragole, but did not result in detectable DNA damage. Exposing B-13/H cells - but not B-13 cells - to 1'-hydroxyestragole resulted in a dose-dependent increase in DNA damage in comet assays, confirmed by detection of N(2)-(trans-isoestragol-3'-yl)-2'-deoxyguanosine adducts. Genotoxicity was inhibited by general SULT inhibitors, supporting a role for SULTS in the activation of 1-hydroxyestragole in B-13/H cells. However, B-13 and B-13/H cells did not express biologically significant levels of SULT1A1 as determined by qRT-PCR, Western blotting and its associated 7-hydroxycoumarin sulphation activity. B-13 and B-13/H cells expressed - relative to intact rat liver - high levels of SULT2B1 (primarily the b isoform) and SULT4A1 mRNAs and proteins. B-13 and B-13/H cells also expressed the 3'-phosphoadenosine 5'-phosphosulphate synthase 1 required for the generation of activated sulphate cofactor 3'-phosphoadenosine 5'-phosphosulphate. However, only B-13/H cells expressed functional SULT activities towards SULT2B1 substrates DHEA, pregnenolone and 4 methylumbelliferone. Since liver progenitor cells are bi-potential and also form cholangiocytes, we therefore hypothesised that B-13 cells express a cholangiocyte-like SULT profile. To test this hypothesis, the expression of SULTs was examined in liver by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. SULT2B1 - but not SULT1A1 - was determined to be expressed in both rat and human cholangiocytes. Since 1'-hydroxyestragole exposure readily produced DNA injury in B-13/H cells, these data suggest that cholangiocarcinomas generated in rats fed estragole may be dependent, in part, on SULT2B1 activation of the 1'-hydroxyestragole metabolite.

De Novo Donor-Specific HLA Antibodies Are Associated With Rapid Loss of Graft Function Following Islet Transplantation in Type 1 Diabetes

Outcomes after islet transplantation continue to improve but etiology of graft failure remains unclear. De novo donor-specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies (DSA) posttransplant are increasingly recognized as a negative prognostic marker. Specific temporal associations between DSA and graft function remain undefined particularly in programs undertaking multiple sequential transplants. Impact of de novo DSA on graft function over 12 months following first islet transplant was determined prospectively in consecutive recipients taking tacrolimus/mycophenolate immunosuppression at a single center. Mixed-meal tolerance test was undertaken in parallel with HLA antibody assessment pretransplant and 1-3 months posttransplant. Sixteen participants received a total of 26 islet transplants. Five (19%) grafts were associated with de novo DSA. Five (31%) recipients were affected: three post-first transplant; two post-second transplant. DSA developed within 4 weeks of all sensitizing grafts and were associated with decreased stimulated C-peptide (median [interquartile range]) at 3 months posttransplant (DSA negative: 613(300-1090); DSA positive 106(34-235) pmol/L [p = 0.004]). De novo DSA directed against most recent islet transplant were absolutely associated with loss of graft function despite maintained immunosuppression at 12 months in the absence of a rescue nonsensitizing transplant. Alemtuzumab induction immunosuppression was associated with reduced incidence of de novo DSA formation (p = 0.03).