El cirujano general en las urgencias hepatobiliares en Colombia desde la visión de los expertos: un estudio cualitativo / The general surgeon in hepatobiliary emergencies in Colombia from the experts' perspective: A qualitative study

Introducción. El manejo perioperatorio de las urgencias hepatobiliares por parte del cirujano general es una competencia esperada y se considera un reto por su relativa frecuencia, impacto en la salud del individuo y la economía, así como las implicaciones en el ejercicio clínico confiable y de alta calidad. Se desconocen los aspectos formales de la educación en cirugía hepatobiliar para el cirujano general en Colombia. El objetivo del presente estudio fue explorar la perspectiva de los cirujanos hepatobiliares sobre esta problemática. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo, mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas con 14 especialistas en cirugía hepatobiliar colombianos, en donde se exploraron los desafíos del entrenamiento, el tiempo y las características de una rotación, la evaluación de la confiabilidad, el número de procedimientos y el rol de la simulación. Se hizo un análisis temático de la información. Resultados. Los expertos mencionaron la importancia de la rotación obligatoria por cirugía hepatobiliar para los cirujanos en formación. El tiempo ideal es de tres meses, en el último año de residencia, en centros especializados, con exposición activa y bajo supervisión. Conclusiones. Por las características epidemiológicas del país y la frecuencia de enfermedades hepatobiliares que requieren tratamiento quirúrgico, es necesario que el cirujano general cuente con una formación sólida en este campo durante la residencia. El presente estudio informa sobre las características ideales del entrenamiento en este campo desde la visión de los expertos colombianos.

Introduction. The perioperative management of hepatobiliary emergencies by the general surgeon is an expected competence and is considered a challenge due to its relative frequency, impact on the individual health and the economy, as well as the implications for reliable and high-quality clinical practice. The formal aspects of education in hepatobiliary surgery for the general surgeon in Colombia are unknown. The objective of the present study was to explore the perspective of hepatobiliary surgeons on this problem. Methods. A qualitative study was carried out through semi-structured interviews with 14 Colombian hepatobiliary surgery specialists, where the challenges of training, time and characteristics of the rotation, evaluation of reliability, number of procedures and role of simulation. A thematic analysis of the information was carried out. Results. The experts mentioned the importance of mandatory rotation for hepatobiliary surgery for surgeons in training. The ideal duration was three months, during the last year of residency, in specialized centers with active exposure and under supervision. Conclusions. Due to the epidemiological characteristics of the country and the frequency of hepatobiliary diseases that require surgical treatment, it is necessary for the general surgeon to have solid training in this field during residency. The present study reports on the ideal characteristics of training in this field from the perspective of Colombian experts.

Multi spiral CT findings of intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct and its benign and malignant differentiation / 实用放射学杂志

Objective To investigate the multi spiral computed tomography(MSCT)characteristics of intraductal papillary neo-plasm of the bile duct(IPNB)and to distinguish the benign and malignant ones.Methods The MSCT and clinical data of 23 patients with IPNB confirmed by pathology were analyzed retrospectively.According to the pathology,they were divided into benign and malignant groups,including 12 cases of benign group(7 cases with low to medium grade intraepithelial neoplasia,and other 5 cases with high grade intraepithelial neoplasia)and 11 cases of malignant group with invasive carcinoma.All patients underwent plain and tri-phasic enhanced CT scans of upper abdomen.The enhanced scan included arterial phase,portal phase and delayed phase.The location,size,growth mode,enhancement type,invasion and metastasis,bile duct manifestations and bile duct stones were analyzed.Independent sample t-test was used to count the transverse diameter,longitudinal diameter and aspect ratio of tumor.Chi square test was used to compare the difference in other parameters between benign and malignant groups.Results There were no significant differences between benign and malignant IPNB groups in the location of the disease,the transverse diameter of the tumor,the dilatation of the bile duct and the presence of the stones(P>0.05).However,the significant differences in tumor growth mode,tumor longitudinal diameter and aspect ratio,enhancement type,invasion of bile duct wall and bile duct truncation were found(P<0.05).Conclusion Benign IPNB is common,while the IPNB with diffuse growth,progressive enhancement,invasion of bile duct wall and extrabiliary structures,and distant metastasis may indicate malignance,and the final diagnosis depends on the pathology.

Application of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging in biliary tract diseases / 中华消化外科杂志

For the past few years, the indocyanine green fluorescence imaging has been widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of biliary tract diseases. Fluorescence visualization of the biliary system by indocyanine green accurately localize the diseased tissue and identify the biliary structures precisely, which effectively avoids the damage to the natural biliary structure and greatly improves the accuracy and safety of biliary surgery. However, the application of this new technology in biliary surgery is still at the exploratory stage, showing great potential for application while also exposing many problems and controversies. It is believed that with the continuous development and improvement, the indocyanine green fluorescence cholangiography will play a more important role in the diagnosis and treatment of biliary tract diseases in the future, and bring more benefits to patients.

Analysis of influencing factors for early tumor recurrence and efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy in gallbladder carcinoma patients after curative-intent resection: a nationwide, multicenter clinical study / 中华消化外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the influencing factors for early tumor recurrence and the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy in gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) patients after curative-intent resection.Methods:The retrospective case-control study was conducted. The clinicopathological data of 506 patients with GBC in 11 medical centers, including The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University et al, from January 2016 to December 2020 were collected. There were 168 males and 338 females, aged (62±11)years. All patients underwent curative-intent resection of GBC, and they were divided into patients with and without early recurrence based on time to postoperative recurrence. Observation indicators: (1) treatment; (2) follow-up and survival of patients; (3) analysis of influencing factors for early tumor recurrence after curative-intent resection of GBC; (4) efficacy of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy. Measurement data with normal distribution were represented as Mean± SD, and measurement data with skewed distribution were represented as M(range). Count data were described as absolute numbers, and comparison between groups was conducted using the chi-square test. Comparison of ordinal data was conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test. Univariate analysis was conducted using the corresponding statistical methods based on data type. Multivariate analysis was conducted using the Logistic regression model with forward method. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to draw survival curve and calculate survival rate, and Log-Rank test was used for survival analysis. Results:(1) Treatment. Of 506 patients, there were 112 cases with postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy, and 394 cases without postopera-tive adjuvant chemotherapy. They underwent 5(range, 3-9)cycles of postoperative adjuvant chemo-therapy. (2) Follow-up and survival of patients. All 506 patients underwent postoperative follow-up, with the follow-up time of 55(range, 34-93)months. During the follow-up, there were 248 patients with tumor recurrence, including 158 cases of early recurrence and 90 cases of late recurrence, and there were 258 patients without tumor recurrence. Of 506 patients, 275 cases survived, and 231 cases died of multiple organ failure caused by tumor recurrence and metastasis. The postoperative recurr-ence-free survival time, overall survival time were 52(range,1-93)months, 62(range, 2-93)months. The 1-, 3-, 5-year disease-free survival rates and 1-, 3-, 5-year overall survival rates of the 506 pati-ents were 68.8%, 53.8%, 47.9% and 78.3%, 58.7%, 51.6%, respectively. Results of survival analysis showed that the median overall survival time of 158 patients with postoperative early recurrence and 348 patients without postoperative early recurrence (including 90 cases of late recurrence and 258 cases of no tumor recurrence) were 9(range, 2-73)months and unreached, showing a significant difference between them ( χ2=456.15, P<0.05). (3) Analysis of influencing factors for early tumor recurrence after curative-intent resection of GBC. Results of multivariate analysis showed that carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) >5.0 μg/L, poorly differentiated tumor, liver invasion, and tumor N staging as stage N1-N2 were independent risk factors influencing early tumor recurrence after cura-tive-intent resection of GBC ( odds ratio=2.74, 6.20, 1.81, 2.93, 4.82, 95% confidence interval as 1.62-4.64, 1.82-21.12, 1.15-3.08, 1.68-5.09, 1.91-12.18, P<0.05), while postoperative adjuvant chemo-therapy was an independent protect factor ( odds ratio=0.39, 95% confidence interval as 0.21-0.71, P<0.05). (4) Efficacy of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy. The median overall survival time of 394 patients without postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy and 112 patients with postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy were 57(range, 2-93)months and unreached, showing a significant differ-ence between them ( χ2=9.38, P<0.05). Of the 158 patients with postoperative early recurrence after curative-intent resection of GBC, 135 cases didn't receive adjuvant chemotherapy and 23 cases received adjuvant chemotherapy, with the overall survival time of 8(range, 2-73)months and 17(range, 8-61)months, respectively, showing a significant difference between them ( χ2=7.68, P<0.05). Conclusions:CEA >5.0 μg/L, poorly differentiated tumor, liver invasion, and tumor N staging as stage N1-N2 are independent risk factors influencing early tumor recurrence after curative-intent resection of GBC, while postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy is an independent protect factor. Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy can prolong the overall survival time of patients with post-operative tumor early recurrence.

Effect of first drainage failure on postoperative prognosis of patients with perihilar cholangiocarci-noma / 中华肝胆外科杂志

Objective:To study the effect of first drainage failure on the prognosis of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC).Methods:The clinical data of 68 patients with PHCC undergoing surgery in the Department of Pancreatic and Metabolic Surgery of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated to the Medical School of Nanjing University, from April 2014 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed, including 46 males and 22 females, aged (63±9) (range, 39-80) years old. The patients were divided into two groups based on whether the first drainage was successful: successful group ( n=34) and failed group ( n=34). The patient's age, gender, first drainage, complications and other clinical data were collected. Patients were followed up by outpatient or telephone review. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis, and log-rank test was used for survival comparison. Results:Compared to the successful group, the drainage time [41(28, 52) d vs. 20(14, 28) d], the drainage tube adjustment rate [32.4%(11/34) vs. 0(0/34)], and the incidence of complications after drainage [88.2% (30/34) vs. 0(0/34)] were all increased in the failed group, with the adjustment rate of drainage position decreased [82.4%(28/34) vs. 100%(34/34)] (all P<0.05). Compared to the successful group, the incidence of abdominal infection was higher [70.6%(24/34) vs. 44.1%(15/34)] in the failed group ( P=0.027). The 5-year cumulative survival rates of the failed group and the successful group were 61.4% and 44.1%, respectively ( P>0.05). Conclusion:Compared to the patients of PHCC with first successful drainage, the risk of abdominal infection is increased when first drainage failed, while the incidence of postoperative complications, in-hospital mortality and long-term survival rate are comparable.

Analysis of the risk factors for biliary infection after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for malignant biliary obstruction / 中华肝胆外科杂志

Objective:To analyze the risk factors of biliary infection after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients with malignant biliary obstruction.Methods:Clinical data of 160 patients with malignant biliary obstruction admitted to the Affiliated People's Hospital of Ningbo Univer-sity from June 2017 to June 2022 were retrospectively analyzed, including 89 males and 71 females, aged (65.1±8.0) (range, 41-78) years old. Patients were divided into two groups according to the occurrence of biliary infection within 30 days after ERCP: infected group ( n=30) and uninfected group ( n=130). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the risk factors of postoperative biliary infection. Results:The incidence of biliary infection after ERCP was 18.8% (30/160) in the patients with malignant biliary obstruction. A total of 43 strains of pathogenic bacteria were detected, including 34 Gram-negative strains and nine Gram-positive strains. The most common pathogenic bacterium was Escherichia coli. Multivariate analysis showed patients with diabetes mellitus ( OR=2.356, 95% CI: 1.587-5.441, P=0.001), sphincter dysfunction ( OR=2.651, 95% CI: 1.854-6.225, P=0.005), preoperative albumin <35 g/L ( OR=3.225, 95% CI: 2.041-5.689, P=0.002), preoperative hemoglobin <110 g/L ( OR=3.424, 95% CI: 2.115-6.333, P=0.003) suffered a higher risk of biliary infection after ERCP. Conclusion:Diabetes mellitus, sphincter dysfunction, lower levels of preoperative albumin and hemoglobin are independent risk factors for biliary infection after ERCP in patients with malignant biliary obstruction.

Clinical analysis of the second-line treatment with lenvatinib plus camrelizumab in 12 cases of advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma / 中华肝胆外科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of lenvatinib combined with camrelizumab as the second-line treatment for advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).Methods:The clinical data of patients with advanced ICC undergoing the second-line treatment of lenvatinib combined with camrelizumab in the Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from June 2021 to June 2022 were screened and analyzed. A total of 12 patients were enrolled, including seven males and five females, aged (67.5±8.6) years. Response evaluation criteria in solid tumor 1.1 was used to evaluate the efficacy of treatment. The safety assessment adopts the Adverse Event Evaluation Standard 5.0. Kaplan-Meier method was conducted to plot survival curves.Results:Among the 12 patients (after 1-7 cycles of immune and targeted therapy), three achieved partial response, four achieved stable disease, and five were defined as progression disease. Adverse events of different degrees occurred in seven cases, among which three patients had adverse events of grade ≥ 3: one with hypertension, which was managed after antihypertensive and symptomatic treatment; one with elevated serum total bilirubin, which was improved after reducing the dose of lenvatinib; one with liver dysfunction, which was considered as immune-related liver toxicity and alleviated after discontinuing camrelizumab. The 1-month, 3-month, and 6-month survival rates and progression-free survival rates of the patients were 100.0%, 91.7%, 66.7%, and 83.3%, 41.7%, and 25.0%, respectively. The median overall survival of patients was 14.7 months (95% CI: 9.2-21.2) and the median time to progression was 8.0 months (95% CI: 4.1-11.9). Conclusion:Combination of lenvatinib and camrelizumab could bring survival benefits with controllable adverse events as the second-line treatment of patients with advanced ICC.

Development and current status of multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment model in hepato-pancreato-biliary diseases / 中华肝胆外科杂志

Hepato-pancreato-biliary diseases (HPBD) are often complicated. The diagnosis and treatment of HPBD involve many disciplines. The malignant degree of hepatobiliary pancreatic system is high, and the prognosis of patients is poor. The multidisciplinary team (MDT) brings specialists from different disciplines together to make a comprehensive and individualized treatment for patients. MDT is emerging in HPBD in recent years. MDT helps improve the accuracy of diagnosis and prognosis. However, there are still some controversies and obstacles in the application of MDT for patients with HPBD. We reviewed the development, current status and experience of MDT in the field of HPBD, analyze the current controversy and obstacles, and providing reference for its future application.

Research progress of robotic hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery / 中华普通外科杂志

As a trends of minimally invasive surgery, robot surgery is widely used in clinical practice, especially in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, because of its better surgical field of view, more flexible robot arm, and more stable for fine operation. This article summarizes the research status and combines the author's own experience to review the current research progress and clinical effect of robotic surgery in pancreatic surgery, liver surgery, biliary surgery and prospect the further development trend of robotic surgery in the future.

Advances in research on the role of biliary tract microecology in gallstone formation / 中国基层医药

Cholelithiasis, a prevalent disease of the digestive system, is characterized by its intricate and diverse mechanisms, which are influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and other factors. Recently, with the widespread application of molecular biology techniques, the role of the biliary tract microecological environment in the pathogenesis of gallstones has garnered increasing attention. This review includes the most recent and pertinent literature on the association between biliary tract microecology and gallstones, summarizing the latest research advancements in this field. Furthermore, it delves into the role of the biliary tract microecology in the formation of both cholesterol and pigment gallstones.

Íleo biliar complicado con infección con SARS-CoV-2. Reporte de caso / Gallstone ileus: a challenge in the management of bile duct pathology. Case Report

Introducción: El Íleo biliar (IB) es una obstrucción intestinal mecánica muy poco frecuente, del 1 al 4 % de todas las obstrucciones intestinales, y es más común en pacientes de edad avanzada. Se produce a través de una fístula bilioentérica en el intestino delgado, sobre todo en el íleon distal. Luego de tener un enfoque diagnóstico mediante imagenología, en su gran mayoría, se opta por el tratamiento quirúrgico para eliminar el o los cálculos impactados. El éxito de esta intervención depende en gran medida del tamaño del cálculo biliar, de la ubicación de la obstrucción intestinal y comorbilidades preexistentes. Caso clínico: Mujer de 78 años con cuadro clínico de obstrucción intestinal, emesis de contenido fecaloide y sintomática respiratoria; se evidenció una masa concéntrica a nivel de íleon distal y proceso neumónico concomitante por tomografía toracoabdominal. Se realizó laparotomía exploratoria con enterolitotomía, extracción de cálculo y anastomosis íleo-ileal y fue trasladada a la UCI en donde presentó falla ventilatoria y requerimiento de ventilación mecánica; se confirmó infección viral por SARS-CoV-2 mediante RT - PCR. Discusión: El IB es una obstrucción intestinal que ocurre con mayor frecuencia en pacientes de edad avanzada. Se habla de la fisiopatología y mecanismo de producción de la fístula entérica y se presentan opciones diagnósticas, terapéuticas y quirúrgicas para dirigir el manejo clínico más apropiado. Conclusión: El IB es difícil de diagnosticar. Debido a su baja incidencia, no existe un consenso que paute el manejo a seguir en los pacientes con diagnóstico de IB. Aunque el tratamiento estándar es la intervención quirúrgica, hay diversas opiniones en cuanto al tipo de cirugía a realizar.

Introduction: Biliary ileus (BI) is a very rare mechanical intestinal obstruction, responsible for 1-4% of all intestinal obstructions and more frequent in elderly patients. It occurs through a bilioenteric fistula in the small bowel, mainly in the distal ileum. After a diagnostic imaging approach, the vast majority opt for surgical treatment to remove the impacted stone or stones. The success of this intervention depends largely on the size of the stone, the location of the bowel obstruction and pre-existing comorbidities. Case report: 78-year-old woman with clinical symptoms of intestinal obstruction, fecaloid emesis, respiratory symptoms, concentric mass at the level of the distal ileum and concomitant pneumonic process in the thoraco-abdominal CT scan. Exploratory laparotomy was performed, with total lithotomy, extraction of the calculus and ileo-ileal anastomosis, and she was transferred to the ICU, where she presented ventilatory failure and required mechanical ventilation. SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed with RT-PCR. Discussion: IB is an intestinal obstruction that occurs more frequently in elderly patients. The pathophysiology and the mechanism of production of enteric fistula are discussed and diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical options are presented to guide the most appropriate clinical management. Conclusion: Enteric fistula is difficult to diagnose. Due to its low incidence, there is no consensus on the management of patients diagnosed with IB. Although the standard treatment is surgical intervention, there are divergent opinions as to the type of surgery to be performed.

Colangiopatía hipertensiva portal por transformación portal cavernomatosa de origen no cirrótica: a propósito de un caso

La colangiopatía portal hace referencia a anomalías colangiográficas que se producen en pacientes con cavernomatosis portal, siendo progresiva, cursando con enfermedad biliar sintomática y anomalías graves de las vías biliares. Y, representa una complicación infrecuente de la hipertensión portal. Se describe el caso de un hombre de 53 años, con historia de larga data de hipertensión portal nocirrótica y cavernomatosis portal, quien presentó un episodio de enfermedad biliar obstructiva sintomática, y en estudios se documentó tejido fibrótico de extensión periportal ascendente con compresión extrínseca del colédoco distal y dilatación de la vía biliar extra e intrahepática. Por lo que se procedió a colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica, realizándose tratamiento paliativo, con papilotomía pequeña y colocación de endoprótesis biliar plástica, siendo exitoso por ausencia de complicaciones procedimentales, y mejoría clínica y parámetros bioquímicos. Finalmente, recibiendo de alta con indicación de seguimiento prioritario para recambios periódicos de endoprótesis biliares, y valoración por hepatología. La colangiopatía portal es una entidad rara que debe sospecharse en sujetos con hipertensión portal de origen no-cirrótico, con hallazgos imagenológicos de estenosis, angulaciones o dilataciones segmentarias, su tratamiento debe ser individualizado, y la terapia endoscópica es de elección en enfermedad biliar sintomática.

Portal cholangiopathy refers to cholangiographic abnormalities occurring in patients with portal cavernomatosis, being progressive, presenting with symptomatic biliary disease and severe biliary tract abnormalities. And, it represents an infrequent complication of portal hypertension. We describe the case of a 53-year-old man with a long history of non-cirrhotic portal hypertension and portal cavernomatosis, who presented an episode of symptomatic obstructive biliary disease, and studies documented fibrotic tissue of ascending periportal extension with extrinsic compression of the distal common bile duct and dilatation of the extra and intrahepatic biliary tract. Therefore, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was performed, and palliative treatment with small papillotomy and placement of a plastic biliary endoprosthesis was successful due to the absence of procedural complications, and clinical improvement and biochemical parameters. Finally, the patient was discharged with indication of priority follow-up for periodic replacement of biliary stents, and evaluation by hepatology. Portal cholangiopathy is a rare entity that should be suspected in subjects with portal hypertension of non-cirrhotic origin, with imaging findings of stenosis, angulations or segmental dilatations, its treatment should be individualized, and endoscopic therapy is of choice in symptomatic biliary disease.

Fases del desarrollo de biomarcadores para la detección temprana del cáncer / Phases of the development of biomarkers for early detection of cancer

Introducción. Un biomarcador se define como una alteración molecular presente en el desarrollo de la patogénesis del cáncer, que puede ser utilizada para el diagnóstico temprano de la enfermedad. La medición del biomarcador se hace por medio de diversas técnicas, como bioquímica, inmunohistoquímica o biología molecular, en diferentes tipos de muestras, como tejido, sangre periférica y orina. El biomarcador ideal será aquel que sea válido y específico a la vez, que sea no invasivo, barato y fácilmente detectable. El uso de biomarcadores para la detección temprana del cáncer debe seguir un desarrollo ordenado y sistemático antes de introducirlos en la práctica clínica. Métodos. Se realizó una búsqueda exhaustiva en las bases de datos de PubMed y Embase, seleccionando los artículos pertinentes para revisarlos acorde a la temática específica de interés. Resultados. Se propone la sistematización del desarrollo de biomarcadores en cinco grandes fases, las cuales tienen la característica de ser ordenadas desde las evidencias más tempranas hasta las fases finales de su estudio. Conclusiones. El correcto desarrollo de biomarcadores hace posible la introducción de intervenciones terapéuticas en el ámbito de la prevención secundaria del cáncer.

Introduction. A biomarker can be defined as a molecular alteration present in the development of cancer pathogenesis which can be used for early diagnosis of the disease. The measurement of the biomarker can be carried out through various techniques such as biochemistry, immunohistochemistry, molecular biology, in different types of samples such as tissue, peripheral blood, and urine. The ideal biomarker will be one that is valid and specific while is non-invasive, cheap, and easily detectable. The use of biomarkers for the early detection of cancer must follow an orderly and systematic development before introducing them into clinical practice. Methods. An exhaustive search was performed in PubMed and Embase databases, selecting the relevant articles according to the specific topic of interest. Results. Systematization of the development of biomarkers in five large phases is proposed, which has the characteristic of being ordered from the earliest evidence to the final phases of their study. Conclusions. The correct development of biomarkers makes possible the introduction of therapeutic interventions in the field of secondary prevention of cancer.

Íleo biliar: análisis de 21 casos / Gallstone ileus: analysis of 21 cases

RESUMEN Antecedentes : el íleo biliar es una complicación infrecuente de la litiasis vesicular, observada más comúnmente en mujeres añosas. Es causada por la migración, a través de una fístula bilioentérica, de un cálculo que produce la obstrucción del tránsito intestinal, que requiere tratamiento quirúrgico. Objetivo : describir las variables preoperatorias, intraoperatorias y posoperatorias de una serie de casos de íleo biliar y la incidencia de íleo biliar recurrente. Material y métodos: se realizó un estudio retrospectivo observacional de pacientes operados con abdomen agudo obstructivo por íleo biliar entre enero de 2009 y diciembre de 2021. Las variables estudiadas fueron: estudios por imágenes, comorbilidades, vías de abordaje quirúrgico, tipo de cirugía, morbimortalidad y recurrencia del íleo. Resultados : sobre 667 pacientes que ingresaron con obstrucción intestinal, 21 tenían íleo biliar (3,1%). El diagnóstico se realizó por tomografía en el 80% de los casos. El abordaje quirúrgico fue por laparotomía en 20 casos y 1 por laparoscopia convertida. La cirugía más utilizada fue la enterotomía con enterorrafia en 18 casos. El tratamiento de la obstrucción fue la cirugía inmediata, mientras que el de la fístula biliar fue diferido en la mayoría de las oportunidades, debido a que el riesgo de tratarla en el momento era muy elevado. La morbilidad fue del 38% y la recurrencia del íleo biliar 4,7%. No se registró mortalidad. Conclusión : el íleo biliar fue una patología infrecuente, que pudo ser correcta y oportunamente diagnosticada y tratada con cirugía, con una baja incidencia de íleo biliar recurrente.

ABSTRACT Background : Gallstone ileus is a rare complication of cholelithiasis and mainly affects elder women. It is caused by gallstone migration through a cholecystoenteric fistula producing bowel obstruction, with the need for surgical treatment. Objective : The aim of this work was to describe the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables of a case series of gallstone ileus and the incidence of recurrent gallstone ileus. Material and methods : We conducted an observational and retrospective study of patients undergoing surgery due to acute bowel obstruction caused by gallstone ileus between January 2009 and December 2021. The variables analyzed were imaging tests, comorbidities, surgical approach, type of surgery, morbidity and mortality and recurrent ileus. Results : Of 667 patients admitted with bowel obstruction, 21 had gallstone ileus (3.1%). The diagnosis was made by computed tomography scan in 80% of the cases. The surgical approach was laparotomy in 20 cases and 1 patient undergoing laparoscopy required conversion. Enterotomy with enterorrhaphy was the most common procedure used in 18 cases. The obstruction was treated by immediate surgery, while the biliary fistula was deferred in most cases because the risk of immediate treatment was very high. Morbidity was 38% and recurrence of gallstone ileus 4.7%. No deaths were reported. Conclusion : Gallstone ileus was a rare condition that was correctly diagnosed and timely treated with surgery, with a low incidence of recurrent gallstone ileus.

Clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of dificult biliary stones in a reference hospital in Colombia

The local experience and the success rate of different available treatments for dificult biliary stones in Colombia are poorly described. We made an observational study reporting patients treated for dificult biliary stones, at Hospital Universitario San Ignacio in Bogotá, Colombia between January 2015, and November 2021. Clinical characteristics, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) findings, and outcomes are presented. Additionally, the success rates of Endoscopic Sphincterotomy Plus Large Balloon Dilation (ESLBD), Mechanical Lithotripsy (ML), temporary stenting (TS), cholangioscopy-guided laser lithotripsy (CGLL), and surgery are described. A total of 146 patients were included (median age 69 years, IQR 58.5-78.5, 33.8% men). The median stone diameter was 15 mm (IQR 10 - 18 mm). One stone was presented in 39.9%, two stones in 18.2%, and ≥3 stones in the remaining stone. A 67.6% disproportion rate was observed between the stone and distal common bile duct. Successful stone extraction was achieved in 56.2% in the first procedure, 22.6% in the second, 17.1% in the third, 3.4% in the fourth, and 0.7% in the fifth procedures. The successful extraction rates were 56.8% for ESLBD, 75% for ML, 23.4% for TS, 57.7% for CGLL, and 100% for surgery. Endoscopic management of dificult stones is usually successful, although it usually requires 2 or more ERCPs procedures. The surgical requirements were low. ESLBD is an effective technique unlike TS. Few patients required advanced techniques such as ML or CGLL. Endoscopic procedures are associated with a low rate of complications.

La tasa de éxito de diferentes tratamientos de Cálculo Biliar Difícil (CBD) en Colombia no está descrita. Hemos realizado un estudio descriptivo observacional sobre el tratamiento de CBD en el Hospital Universitario San Ignacio en Bogotá, Colombia entre enero 2015 y noviembre 2021. Se presentan las características clínicas, hallazgos en la Colangiopancreatografía Retrógrada Endoscópica (CPRE) y desenlaces asociados. Adicionalmente, se describe la tasa de éxito de los pacientes tratados mediante esfinterotomía asociada a dilatación endoscópica con balón grande (EDEBG), litotripsia mecánica (LM), stent temporal (ST), litotripsia con láser guiada por colangioscopia (LLGC) y cirugía. 146 pacientes fueron incluidos (Mediana de edad 69 años, RIC 58,6-78,5). 33,8% eran hombres. La mediana del tamaño del CBD fue de 15 mm (RIC 10-18 mm). 39,9% tenían un solo cálculo, 18,2% tenían 2 y el resto ≥3 cálculos. 67,6% tenían desproporción entre el cálculo y el colédoco distal. La extracción exitosa se logró en 56,2% en el primer procedimiento, 22,6% en el segundo, 17,1% en el tercero, 3,4% en el cuarto y 0,7% en el quinto procedimiento. La tasa de extracción exitosa fue de 56,8% con EDEBG, 75% con LM, 23,4% con ST, 57,7% con LLGC y 100% con cirugía. El manejo endoscópico del CBD es usualmente exitoso. Sin embargo, requiere usualmente ≥2 CPRE. El tratamiento quirúrgico no es común. EDEBG es una técnica efectiva a diferencia del ST. Pocos pacientes requirieron técnicas avanzadas como LM o LLGC. Los métodos endoscópicos presentan una baja tasa de complicaciones.

Research progress and prospect of surgical treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in the era of liver transplantation / 国际外科学杂志

The incidence of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma has been increasing worldwide in recent years. Hepatectomy is the first choice for surgical treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. However, due to high tumor invasion, early lymph node metastasis and other factors, only less than 30% of cases are resectable, and the overall prognosis of patients is very poor. Theoretically, liver transplantation can not only remove the tumor, but also replace the damaged liver. Therefore, many scholars have proposed liver transplantation for the treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in order to obtain better results. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma was once listed as a contraindication of liver transplantation due to limited cases, tumor recurrence, and shortage of donors. However, with the optimization of recipient screening criteria and the development of neoadjuvant therapy, part of patients can also benefit from it, making liver transplantation a potential therapeutic strategy. Based on the literature review and the author′s experience, this article introduced the current situation of surgical treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, the comparison between hepatectomy and liver transplantation, the latest progress of liver transplantation treatment and the future challenges and solutions.

New progress in the diagnosis and treatment of biliary tract tumors / 国际外科学杂志

Biliary tract cancers (BTC) is a type of digestive tract malignant tumors that originate from biliary epithelial cells, is characterized by strong occult and highly invasive, and has a high mortality rate. Early detection and diagnosis are considered to be the key to obtaining radical surgical treatment. R0 resection is an effective measure to benefit patients with BTC. However, most of the patients present with local progression or associated distant metastasis, making it impossible to undergo radical surgical treatment. With existing diagnosis and treatment methods, the 5-year survival rate of patients is still very low. Therefore, how to improve the level of diagnosis and treatment of BTC, prolong survival, and improve the quality of life has become an urgent problem to be solved. In view of the characteristics of BTC and the continuous deepening of clinical pathological molecular research, adjuvant therapy, precisely targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and comprehensive treatment are currently considered to be standardized diagnosis and treatment models and research directions beyond surgery. Therefore, this article systematically analyzes the current research progress of BTC both domestically and internationally, aiming to provide strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with BTC.

Application prospect of minimally invasive surgical techniques in the treatment of biliary tract cancer / 中华消化外科杂志

Due to the inherent disease characteristics and surgical difficulties, the develop-ment of minimally invasive surgery in biliary tract cancer has encountered more difficulties and controversies. As one of the representative fields of modern precise surgery and an important part of multidisciplinary therapy, the value and application of minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of biliary tract cancer need to be further elaborated and standardized. Minimally invasive surgical techniques should be explored and studied under reasonable norms and supervision. More higher level evidence-based evidences should be obtained under the premise of ensuring the ethical prin-ciple of maximum benefit to patients, and ultimately promote the overall progress in the field.

Current status and pondering of minimally-invasive surgical techniques in radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma / 中华消化外科杂志

Hilar cholangiocarcinoma is one difficultly-treated biliary malignancy with poor prognosis, and radical resection offers the only hope of cure for the disease. In recent years, with development and maturation of minimally-invasive techniques, laparoscopic or robotic-assisted radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma has been attempted in some major medical centers. Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma is technically safe and feasible at present, but there is still a lack of large number of case report and evaluation of long-term survival of patients. Based on previous literatures and combined with clinical experiences, the author elaborates on the application status of laparoscopic and robot surgical system in the radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma, and discusses the key issues that should be paid attention to in carrying out this technology, such as the operator′s prerequisite requirement and patients′ selec-tion, how to ensure the radicality of surgical resection and improve the long-term outcomes.

Strategy of laparoscopic treatment of right posterior bile duct hepatolithiasis / 中华消化外科杂志

Hepatolithiasis is a common biliary disease in China. Surgical treatment principles of hepatolithiasis include "removing lesions, cleaning stones, correcting strictures, recovering the drainage and preventing the recurrence". Laparoscopic techniques have been increasingly applied in surgical treatment of hepatolithiasis recently. Right posterior bile duct is a predilection site of hepatolithiasis. Due to its unique anatomy, right posterior lobectomy, right posterior bile duct lithotomy and plasty remain challenging under laparoscopy. Based on relevant literatures and clinical experiences, the authors explore the strategy of laparoscopic treatment right posterior bile duct hepatolithiasis, aiming to provide reference for surgical colleagues.