Tranexamic Acid in Patients Undergoing Liver Resection: The HeLiX Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Tranexamic acid reduces bleeding and blood transfusion in many types of surgery, but its effect in patients undergoing liver resection for a cancer-related indication remains unclear. Objective: To determine whether tranexamic acid reduces red blood cell transfusion within 7 days of liver resection. Design, Setting, and Participants: Multicenter randomized clinical trial of tranexamic acid vs placebo conducted from December 1, 2014, to November 8, 2022, at 10 hepatopancreaticobiliary sites in Canada and 1 site in the United States, with 90-day follow-up. Participants, clinicians, and data collectors were blinded to allocation. A volunteer sample of 1384 patients undergoing liver resection for a cancer-related indication met eligibility criteria and consented to randomization. Interventions: Tranexamic acid (1-g bolus followed by 1-g infusion over 8 hours; n = 619) or matching placebo (n = 626) beginning at induction of anesthesia. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was receipt of red blood cell transfusion within 7 days of surgery. Results: The primary analysis included 1245 participants (mean age, 63.2 years; 39.8% female; 56.1% with a diagnosis of colorectal liver metastases). Perioperative characteristics were similar between groups. Red blood cell transfusion occurred in 16.3% of participants (n = 101) in the tranexamic acid group and 14.5% (n = 91) in the placebo group (odds ratio, 1.15 [95% CI, 0.84-1.56]; P = .38; absolute difference, 2% [95% CI, -2% to 6%]). Measured intraoperative blood loss (tranexamic acid, 817.3 mL; placebo, 836.7 mL; P = .75) and total estimated blood loss over 7 days (tranexamic acid, 1504.0 mL; placebo, 1551.2 mL; P = .38) were similar between groups. Participants receiving tranexamic acid experienced significantly more complications compared with placebo (odds ratio, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.02-1.60]; P = .03), with no significant difference in venous thromboembolism (odds ratio, 1.68 [95% CI, 0.95-3.07]; P = .08). Conclusions and Relevance: Among patients undergoing liver resection for a cancer-related indication, tranexamic acid did not reduce bleeding or blood transfusion but increased perioperative complications. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02261415.

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for pancreatic duct stones in patients with chronic pancreatitis: Are we underutilizing a new technology?

The progressive inflammatory nature of chronic pancreatitis and its sparse therapeutic toolbox remain obstacles in offering patients durable solutions for their symptoms. Obstruction of the main pancreatic duct by either strictures or stones represents a scenario worthy of therapeutic focus, as nearly all patients with pancreatitis eventually have intraductal stones. A more recent option for removal of main duct stones is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). In an effort to explore the role of ESWL in a Canadian setting, we evaluated our initial experience over an 8-year period (2011-2019).

Preoperative Single-dose Methylprednisolone Prevents Surgical Site Infections After Major Liver Resection: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a single preoperative dose of methylprednisolone for preventing postoperative complications after major liver resections. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Hepatic resections are associated with a significant acute systemic inflammatory response. This effect subsequently correlates with postoperative morbidity, mortality, and length of recovery. Multiple small trials have proposed that the administration of glucocorticoids may modulate this effect. METHODS: This study was a parallel, dual-arm, double-blind randomized controlled trial. Adult patients undergoing elective major hepatic resection (≥3 segments) at a quaternary care institution were included (2013-2019). Patients were randomly assigned to receive a single preoperative 500 mg dose of methylprednisolone versus placebo. The main outcome measure was postoperative complications after liver resection, within 90 days of the index operation. Standard statistical methodology was employed (P < 0.05 = significant). RESULTS: A total of 151 patients who underwent a major hepatic resection were randomized (mean age = 62.8 years; 57% male; body-mass-index = 27.9). No significant differences were identified between the intervention and control groups (age, sex, body-mass-index, preoperative comorbidities, hepatic function, ASA class, portal vein embolization rate) (P > 0.05). Underlying hepatic diagnoses included colorectal liver metastases (69%), hepatocellular carcinoma (18%), noncolorectal liver metastases (7%), and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (6%). There was a significant reduction in the overall incidence of postoperative complications in the methylprednisolone group (31.2% vs 47.3%; P = 0.042). Patients in the glucocorticoid group also displayed less frequent organ space surgical site infections (6.5% vs 17.6%; P = 0.036), as well as a shorter length of hospital stay (8.9 vs 12.5 days; P = 0.015). Postoperative serum bilirubin and prothrombin timeinternational normalized ratio (PT-INR) levels were also lower in the steroid group (P = 0.03 and 0.04, respectively). Multivariate analysis did not identify any additional significant modifying factor relationships (estimated blood loss, duration of surgery, hepatic vascular occlusion (rate or duration), portal vein embolization, drain use, etc) (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A single preoperative dose of methylprednisolone significantly reduces the length of hospital stay, postoperative serum bilirubin, and PT-INR, as well as infectious and overall complications following major hepatectomy.

Is the Pringle manoeuvre becoming a lost art? Contemporary use for both severe liver trauma with ongoing hemorrhage and elective partial hepatectomy.

The Pringle manoeuvre (vascular inflow occlusion) has been a mainstay technique in trauma surgery and hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery since it was first described in the early 1900s. We sought to determine how frequently the manoeuvre is used today for both elective and emergent cases in these disciplines. To reflect on its evolution, we evaluated the Pringle manoeuvre over a recent 10-year period (2010-2020). We found it is used less frequently owing to more frequent nonoperative management and more advanced elective hepatic resection techniques. Continuing educational collaboration is critical to ensure continued insight into the impact of hepatic vascular inflow occlusion among trainees who observe this procedure less frequently.

Adverse Outcomes After Bile Spillage in Incidental Gallbladder Cancers: A Population-based Study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of bile spillage during cholecystectomy on oncological outcomes in incidental gallbladder cancers. BACKGROUND: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is rare, but lethal. Achieving complete resection offers the best chance of survival. About 30% of GBCs are discovered incidentally after cholecystectomy for benign pathology. There is an anecdotal association between peritoneal dissemination and bile spillage during the index cholecystectomy. However, no population-based studies are available that measure the consequences of bile spillage on patient outcomes. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort comparison of patients with incidental GBC. All cholecystectomies and cases of GBC in Alberta, Canada, from 2001 to 2015, were identified. GBCs discovered incidentally were included. Operative events leading to bile spillage were reviewed. Patient outcomes were compared between cases of bile spillage versus no contamination. RESULTS: In all, 115,484 cholecystectomies were performed, and a detailed analysis was possible in 82 incidental GBC cases. In 55 cases (67%), there was bile spillage during the index cholecystectomy. Peritoneal carcinomatosis occurred more frequently in those with bile spillage (24% vs 4%; P = 0.0287). Patients with bile spillage were less likely to undergo a radical re-resection (25% vs 56%; P = 0.0131) and were less likely to achieve an R0 resection margin [odds ratio 0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.06-0.55]. On Cox regression modeling, bile spillage was an independent predictor of shorter disease-free survival (hazard ratio 1.99, 95% CI 1.07-3.67). CONCLUSION: For incidentally discovered GBC, bile spillage at the time of index cholecystectomy has measureable adverse consequences on patient outcomes. Early involvement of a hepatobiliary specialist is recommended where concerning features for GBC exist.

Is an optical illusion the cause of classical bile duct injuries?

We sought to determine if lateral-inferior traction on the Hartmann pouch could produce bile duct kinking and subsequent misinterpretation of the space on the left side of the bile duct as the hepatobiliary triangle. Once traction was applied, we measured the angle between the cystic duct and inferior gallbladder wall hepatobiliary triangle) in 76 cases, and the angle between the common bile duct and common hepatic duct (porta hepatis "triangle") in 41 cases. The mean angles were significantly different (hepatobiliary triangle mean 68.2°, standard deviation [SD] 16.0°, range 23-109°; porta hepatis "triangle" mean 112.0°, SD 18.4°, range 72-170°; p < 0.01). The ranges, however, overlapped in 26 cases. In many cases, lateral-inferior traction on the Hartmann pouch produced substantial kinking of the bile duct that could easily elicit the illusion that it is the hepatobiliary triangle rather than the centre of the porta hepatis.

Surgical Transgastric Necrosectomy for Necrotizing Pancreatitis: A Single-stage Procedure for Walled-off Pancreatic Necrosis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of surgical transgastric necrosectomy (TGN) for walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WON) in selected patients. BACKGROUND: WON is a common consequence of severe pancreatitis and typically occurs 3 to 5 weeks after the onset of acute pancreatitis. When symptomatic, it can require intervention. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients with WON undergoing surgical management at 3 high-volume pancreatic institutions was performed. Surgical indications, intervention timing, technical methodology, and patient outcomes were evaluated. Patients undergoing intervention <30 days were excluded. Differences across centers were evaluated using a P value of <0.05 as significant. RESULTS: One hundred seventy-eight total patients were analyzed (mean WON diameter = 14 cm, 64% male, mean age = 51 years) across 3 centers. The majority required inpatient admission with a median preoperative length of hospital stay of 29 days (25% required preoperative critical care support). Most (96%) patients underwent a TGN. The median duration of time between the onset of pancreatitis symptoms and operative intervention was 60 days. Thirty-nine percent of the necrosum was infected. Postoperative morbidity and mortality were 38% and 2%, respectively. The median postoperative length of hospital length of stay was 8 days, with the majority of patients discharged home. The median length of follow-up was 21 months, with 91% of patients having complete clinical resolution of symptoms at a median of 6 weeks. Readmission to hospital and/or a repeat intervention was also not infrequent (20%). CONCLUSION: Surgical TGN is an excellent 1-stage surgical option for symptomatic WON in a highly selected group of patients. Precise surgical technique and long-term outpatient follow-up are mandatory for optimal patient outcomes.

Prevalence of anatomic landmarks for orientation during elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies.

BACKGROUND: We sought to determine the prevalence of common anatomic landmarks around the gallbladder that may be useful in orienting surgeons during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. METHODS: The subhepatic anatomy of 128 patients undergoing elective cholecystectomy was recorded. We searched and recorded the presence of five anatomic landmarks: the bile duct (B), the Sulcus of Rouviere (S), the left hepatic artery (A), the umbilical fissure (F), and the duodenum (E). These are the previously described B-SAFE landmarks. RESULTS: We found that the duodenum and umbilical fissure were present reliably in almost all patients. The position of the left hepatic artery could be reliably determined by its pulsation in 84% of patients. A portion of the bile duct could be seen in 77% and the Sulcus of Rouviere was present in 80%. Furthermore, the hepatobiliary triangle was always found superior or at the same level as the Sulcus of Rouviere. CONCLUSIONS: We found that these five anatomic landmarks were reliably present. This suggest that using the B-SAFE landmarks may allow a surgeon to more easily orient before and during laparoscopic cholecystectomy and prevent bile duct injuries.

Efficacy of a Dual-ring Wound Protector for Prevention of Surgical Site Infections After Pancreaticoduodenectomy in Patients With Intrabiliary Stents: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of a dual-ring wound protector for preventing incisional surgical site infection (SSI) among patients with preoperative biliary stents undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This study was a parallel, dual-arm, double-blind randomized controlled trial. Adult patients with a biliary stent undergoing elective PD at 2 tertiary care institutions were included (February 2013 to May 2016). Patients were randomly assigned to receive a surgical dual-ring wound protector or no wound protector, and also the current standard of care. The main outcome measure was incisional SSI, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria, within 30 days of the index operation. RESULTS: A total of 107 patients were recruited (mean age 67.2 years; standard deviation 12.9; 65% male). No significant differences were identified between the intervention and control groups (age, sex, body mass index, preoperative comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, prestent cholangitis). There was a significant reduction in the incidence of incisional SSI in the wound protector group (21.1% vs 44.0%; relative risk reduction 52%; P = 0.010). Patients with completed PD also displayed a decrease in incisional SSI with use of the wound protector compared with those palliated surgically (27.3% vs 48.7%; P = 0.04). Multivariate analysis did not identify any significant modifying factor relationships (estimated blood loss, duration of surgery, hospital site, etc.) (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Among adult patients with intrabiliary stents, the use of a dual-ring wound protector during PD significantly reduces the risk of incisional SSI.

Acute kidney injury following resection of hepatocellular carcinoma: prognostic value of the acute kidney injury network criteria

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality after liver resection. Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have a higher risk of AKI owing to the underlying association between hepatic and renal dysfunction. Use of the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) diagnostic criteria is recommended for patients with cirrhosis, but remains poorly studied following liver resection. We compared the prognostic value of the AKIN creatinine and urine output criteria in terms of postoperative outcomes following liver resection for HCC. Methods: All patients who underwent a liver resection for HCC from January 2010 to June 2016 were included. We used AKIN urine output and creatinine criteria to assess for AKI within 48 hours of surgery. Results: Eighty liver resections were performed during the study period. Cirrhosis was confirmed in 80%. Median hospital stay was 9 (interquartile range 7­12) days, and 30-day mortality was 2.5%. The incidence of AKI was higher based on the urine output than on the creatinine criterion (53.8% v. 20%), and was associated with prolonged hospitalization and 30-day postoperative mortality when defined by serum creatinine (hospital stay: 11.2 v. 20.1 d, p = 0.01; mortality: 12.5% v. 0%, p < 0.01), but not urine output (hospital stay: 15.6 v. 10 d, p = 0.05; mortality: 2.3% v. 2.7%, p > 0.99). Conclusion: The urine output criterion resulted in an overestimation of AKI and compromised the prognostic value of AKIN criteria. Revision may be required to account for the exacerbated physiologic postoperative reduction in urine output in patients with HCC.

L'insuffisance rénale aiguë (IRA) est associée à une morbidité et à une mortalité accrues après une résection hépatique. Les patients atteints d'un carcinome hépatocellulaire (CHC) sont exposés à un risque plus grand d'IRA en raison du lien sous-jacent entre l'insuffisance hépatique et l'insuffisance rénale. Les critères diagnostiques de l'Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) sont recommandés chez les patients cirrhotiques, mais ils n'ont pas été bien étudiés dans les cas de résection hépatique. Nous avons comparé la valeur pronostique des critères de l'AKIN tels que la créatinine et le débit urinaire pour ce qui est des résultats postopératoires suite à une résection hépatique pour CHC. Méthodes: Tous les patients soumis à une résection hépatique pour CHC entre janvier 2010 et juin 2016 ont été inclus. Nous avons utilisé les critères de l'AKIN concernant le débit urinaire et la créatinine pour évaluer l'IRA dans les 48 heures suivant la chirurgie. Résultats: Quatre-vingt résections hépatiques ont été effectuées pendant la périodeVde l'étude. La cirrhose a été confirmée dans 80 % des cas. Le séjour hospitalierVmédian a duré 9 jours (intervalle interquartile 7­12 jours) et la mortalité à 30 jours a été de 2,5 %. L'incidence de l'IRA a été plus élevée selon le critère débit urinaire que selon le critère créatinine (53,8 % c. 20 %), et a été associée à un séjour plus long et à une mortalité à 30 jours plus élevée suite à l'intervention selon le critère créatinine sérique (séjour hospitalier : 11,2 c. 20,1 j, p = 0,01; mortalité : 12,5 % c. 0 %, p < 0,01), mais non selon le critère débit urinaire (séjour hospitalier : 15,6 c. 10 j, p = 0,05; mortalité : 2,3 % c. 2,7 %, p > 0,99).

The importance of cognitive map placement in bile duct injuries.

SUMMARY: Bile duct injuries often occur because of surgeon spatial disorientation. The psychological concept of cognitive map misplacement is a useful explanation of how this disorientation and injury occurs. Surgeons may find that using a "bile duct time out" is a helpful way to orient. Based on the mnemonic B-SAFE, they can use 5 subhepatic landmarks (B, bile duct; S, sulcus of Rouviere; A, hepatic artery; F, umbilical fissure; E, enteric/duodenum) to correctly place their cognitive map.

Effect of N-acetylcysteine on liver recovery after resection: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Liver failure following hepatic resection is a multifactorial complication. In experimental studies, infusion of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can minimize hepatic parenchymal injury. METHODS: Patients undergoing liver resection were randomized to postoperative care with or without NAC. No blinding was performed. Overall complication rate was the primary outcome; liver failure, length of stay, and mortality were secondary outcomes. Due to safety concerns, a premature multivariate analysis was performed and included within the model randomization to NAC, preoperative ASA, extent of resection, and intraoperative vascular occlusion as factors. RESULTS: Two hundred and six patients were randomized (110 to conventional therapy; 96 to NAC). No significant differences were noted in overall complications (32.7% and 45.7%, P = 0.06) or hepatic failure (3.6% and 5.4%, P = 0.537) between treatment groups. There was significantly more delirium within the NAC group (2.7% and 9.8%, P < 0.05) that caused early trial termination. In multivariate analysis, only randomization to NAC (OR = 2.21, 95%CI = 1.16-4.19) and extensive resections (OR = 2.28, 95%CI = 1.22-4.29) were predictive of postoperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: Patients randomized to postoperative NAC received no benefit. There was a trend toward a higher rate of overall complications and a significantly higher rate of delirium in the NAC group. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:446-450. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The diagnostic pathway for solid pancreatic neoplasms: are we applying too many tests?

BACKGROUND: The single best diagnostic and staging test for pancreatic cancer remains a contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan. It is frequently the only imaging test required before surgical resection for solid pancreatic lesions. Unfortunately, many patients undergo additional testing that often delays definitive care. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of all patients with solid pancreatic lesions concerning for adenocarcinoma referred to a high volume Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) service over 4 y (2008-2012) was completed. The time intervals between the initial imaging test and both consultation with HPB surgery and operative intervention, as well as the number of additional tests, were evaluated. Standard statistical methodology was used (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Among 130 patients with solid pancreatic lesions, the index imaging modality was ultrasonography and computed tomography for 75 (58%) and 52 (40%), respectively. Patients underwent a mean of 1.3 diagnostic tests after the index study and before consultation with HPB surgery (range: 0-5). There was a significant increase in time to HPB consultation and operative intervention with an increasing number of interval imaging tests. The mean time to surgical consultation and operation if 0 interval diagnostic tests were performed was 15.9 and 45.4 d, respectively. If four interval tests were conducted, the mean was 69.4 and 122.6 d, respectively. Sixty-two patients (48%) were initially referred to a nonsurgical service. The mean time to surgical consultation and operation if an intervening referral occurred was 36.6 and 66.8 d, respectively. This compares to 19.8 and 48.1 d, respectively, in cases of direct referral to an HPB surgeon. The mean number of diagnostic tests performed before HPB consultation if a nonsurgical referral occurred was 2.1 (versus 0.7 if direct HPB surgeon referral). CONCLUSIONS: Despite a relatively simple algorithm for the investigation of solid pancreatic lesions, considerable heterogeneity remains in how these patients are evaluated before referral to HPB surgery. As the number of investigations increases after the index imaging test, there is increasing delay to both surgical consultation and definitive intervention. Education is required to expedite care and mitigate excess diagnostic tests.

In search of the best reconstructive technique after pancreaticoduodenectomy: pancreaticojejunostomy versus pancreaticogastrostomy.

BACKGROUND: It has been suggested that pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) is a safer reconstruction than pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ), resulting in lower morbidity, including lower pancreatic leak rates and decreased postoperative mortality. We compared PJ and PG after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). METHODS: A randomized clinical trial was designed. It was stopped with 50% accrual. Patients underwent either PG or PJ reconstruction. The primary outcome was the pancreatic fistula rate, and the secondary outcomes were overall morbidity and mortality. We used the Student t, Mann-Whitney U and χ(2) tests for intention to treat analysis. The effect of randomization, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, soft pancreatic texture and use of pancreatic stent on overall complications and fistula rates was calculated using logistic regression. RESULTS: Our trial included 98 patients. The rate of pancreatic fistula formation was 18% in the PJ and 25% in the PG groups (p = 0.40). Postoperative complications occurred in 48% of patients in the PJ and 58% in the PG groups (p = 0.31). There were no significant predictors of overall complications in the multivariate analysis. Only soft pancreatic gland predicted the occurrence of pancreatic fistula (odds ratio 5.89, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: There was no difference in the rates of pancreatic leak/fistula, overall complications or mortality between patients undergoing PG and and those undergoing PJ after PD.

CONTEXTE: Selon certains, la pancréatogastrostomie (PG) est une technique de reconstruction plus sécuritaire que la pancréatojéjunostomie (PJ) et entraîne une morbidité moindre, y compris un taux moins élevé de fuites pancréatiques et une mortalité postopératoire diminuée. Nous avons comparé la PJ et la PG post-pancréatoduodénectomie. MÉTHODES: Un essai clinique randomisé a été conçu et cessé à l'atteinte d'un taux de participation de 50 %. Les patients ont subi une reconstruction par PG ou par PJ. Le paramètre principal était le taux de fistules pancréatiques et les paramètres secondaires étaient la morbidité et la mortalité globales. Nous avons utilisé les tests t de Student, U de Mann­Whitney et du χ2 carré pour l'analyse en intention de traiter. Nous avons calculé l'effet de la randomisation, du score de l'American Society of Anesthesiologists, de la consistance molle du pancréas et du recours à l'endoprothèse pancréatique sur les complications globales et les taux de fistules à l'aide d'une analyse de régression logistique. RÉSULTANTS: Notre essai a regroupé 98 patients. Le taux de fistules pancréatiques a été de 18 % dans le groupe soumis à la PJ et de 25 % dans le groupe soumis à la PG (p = 0,40). Des complications postopératoires sont survenues chez 48 % des patients du groupe soumis à la PJ et chez 58 % du groupe soumis à la PG (p = 0,31). Aucun prédicteur significatif des complications globales n'est ressorti à l'analyse multivariée. Seule la consistance molle du pancréas a permis de prédire la survenue d'une fistule pancréatique (rapport des cotes 5,89, p = 0,003). CONCLUSION: Nous n'avons noté aucune différence quant aux taux de fuites ou de fistules pancréatiques, de complications globales ou de mortalité entre les patients soumis à la PG et à la PJ post-pancréatoduodénectomie.

Identification of prognostic inflammatory factors in colorectal liver metastases.

BACKGROUND: The modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) has been reported to be an important prognostic indicator in a number of tumor types, including colorectal cancer (CRC). The features of the inflammatory state thought to accompany elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), a key feature of mGPS, were characterized in patients with colorectal liver metastases. Additional inflammatory mediators that contribute to prognosis were explored. METHODS: In sera from 69 patients with colorectal liver metastases, a panel of 42 inflammatory mediators were quantified as a function of CRP levels, and as a function of disease-free survival. Multivariate statistical methods were used to determine association of each mediator with elevated CRP and truncated disease-free survival. RESULTS: Elevated CRP was confirmed to be a strong predictor of survival (HR 4.00, p = 0.001) and recurrence (HR 3.30, p = 0.002). The inflammatory state associated with elevated CRP was comprised of raised IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-12 and IL-15. In addition, elevated IL-8 and PDGF-AB/BB and decreased eotaxin and IP-10 were associated with worse disease-free and overall survival. CONCLUSIONS: Elevated CRP is associated with a proinflammatory state. The inflammatory state is an important prognostic indicator in CRC liver metastases. The individual contributions of tumor biology and the host to this inflammatory response will require further investigation.

The impact of an acute care surgery clinical care pathway for suspected appendicitis on the use of CT in the emergency department.

BACKGROUND: The natural evolution of an acute care surgery (ACS) service is to develop disease-specific care pathways aimed at quality improvement. Our primary goal was to evaluate the implementation of an ACS pathway dedicated to suspected appendicitis on patient flow and the use of computed tomography (CT) in the emergency department (ED). METHODS: All adults within a large health care system (3 hospitals) with suspected appendicitis were analyzed during our study period, which included 3 time periods: pre- and postimplementation of the disease-specific pathway and at 12-month follow-up. RESULTS: Of the 1168 consultations for appendicitis that took place during our study period, 349 occurred preimplementation, 392 occurred postimplementation, and 427 were follow-up visits. In all, 877 (75%) patients were admitted to the ACS service. Overall, 83% of patients underwent surgery within 6 hours. The mean wait time from CT request to obtaining the CT scan decreased with pathway implementation at all sites (197 v. 143 min, p < 0.001). This improvement was sustained at 12-month followup (131 min, p < 0.001). The pathway increased the number of CTs completed in under 2 hours from 3% to 42% (p < 0.001). No decrease in the total number of CTs or the pattern of ultrasonography was noted (p = 0.42). Wait times from ED triage to surgery were shortened (665 min preimplementation, 633 min postimplementation, 631 min at the 12-month follow-up, p = 0.040). CONCLUSION: A clinical care pathway dedicated to suspected appendicitis can decrease times to both CT scan and surgical intervention.

CONTEXTE: LL'évolution naturelle d'un service de chirurgie d'urgence (SCU) consiste à mettre au point des plans d'intervention spécifiques aux maladies dans le but d'améliorer la qualité des soins. Notre objectif principal était d'évaluer l'impact de l'instauration au SCU d'un plan d'intervention spécifique à l'appendicite présumée sur le roulement des patients et sur l'utilisation de la tomodensitométrie (TDM) à l'urgence. MÉTHODES: Les dossiers de tous les patients adultes d'un important réseau de santé (3 hôpitaux) s'étant présentés pour une appendicite présumée ont été analysés durant la période de notre étude qui incluait 3 étapes : avant et après la mise en oeuvre du plan d'intervention spécifique, puis suivi à 12 mois. RÉSULTATS: Sur les 1168 consultations pour appendicite qui ont eu lieu durant notre étude, 349 se sont déroulées avant la mise en oeuvre du service, 392, après sa mise en oeuvre, et 427 étaient des visites de suivi. En tout, 877 patients (75 %) ont été admis au SCU. Globalement, 83 % des patients ont subi une chirurgie dans les 6 heures. Le temps d'attente moyen entre la demande de TDM et sa réalisation a diminué après l'application du plan d'intervention pour tous les sites (197 c. 143 min, p < 0,001). Cette amélioration se maintenait toujours au suivi de 12 mois (131 min, p < 0,001). Le plan d'intervention a permis de faire passer le nombre de TDM réalisées en moins de 2 heures de 3 % à 42 % (p < 0,001). On n'a noté aucune diminution du nombre total de TDM ou des tendances de l'échographie (p = 0,42). Les temps d'attente entre le triage et l'appendicectomie ont diminué (665 min avant et 633 min après l'application du plan d'intervention, 631 min au suivi de 12 mois, p = 0.040). CONCLUSION: Un plan d'intervention spécifique à l'appendicite peut réduire les temps d'attente pour la TDM et l'intervention chirurgicale.

Does regional variation impact decision-making in the management and palliation of pancreatic head adenocarcinoma? Results from an international survey.

BACKGROUND: Management and palliation of pancreatic head adenocarcinoma is challenging. End-of-life decision-making is a variable process involving multiple factors. METHODS: We conducted a qualitative, physician-based, 40-question international survey characterizing the impact of medical, religious, social, training and system factors on care. RESULTS: A total of 258 international clinicians completed the survey. Respondents were typically fellowship-trained (78%), with a mean of 16 years' experience in a university-affiliated (93%) hepato-pancreato-biliary group (96%) practice. Most (91%) believed resection is potentially curative. Most patients were discussed preoperatively by multidisciplinary teams (94%) and medical assessment clinics (68%), but rarely critical care (21%). Intraoperative surgical palliation included double bypass or no intervention for locally advanced nonresectable tumours (41% and 49% v. 14% and 85%, respectively, for patients with hepatic metastases). Postoperative admission to the intensive care unit was frequent (58%). Severe postoperative complications were often treated with aggressive cardiopulmonary resuscitation, intubation and critical care (96%), with no defined time points for futility (74%). Admitting surgeons guided most end-of-life decisions (97%). Formal medical futility laws were rarely available (26%). Insurance status did not alter treatment (97%) or palliation (95%) in non-universal care regions. Clinician experience, regional culture and training background impacted treatment (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Despite remarkable overall agreement, geographic and training differences are evident in the treatment and palliation of pancreatic head adenocarcinoma.

CONTEXTE: Le traitement et les soins palliatifs pour l'adénocarcinome de la tête du pancréas sont complexes. Les décisions de fin de vie reposent sur un processus hautement variable qui dépend de multiples facteurs. MÉTHODES: Nous avons administré à des médecins un sondage international qualitatif à 40 questions afin de caractériser l'impact sur les soins exercé par différents facteurs, notamment médicaux, religieux, sociaux, relatifs à la formation et systémiques. RÉSULTATS: En tout, 258 cliniciens ont participé à ce sondage international. Les participants étaient en général des spécialistes (78%), cumulaient en moyenne 16 ans d'expérience dans le domaine hépatopancréatobiliaire (96%) au sein d'un groupe affilié à une université (93%). La plupart (91%) ont dit croire que la résection est potentiellement curative. La majorité des cas faisaient l'objet de discussions préopératoires par des équipes multidisciplinaires (94%) et en clinique d'évaluation médicale (68%), mais rarement par une équipe de soins intensifs (21%). Les soins palliatifs chirurgicaux peropératoires incluaient la double dérivation ou la non intervention en présence de tumeurs non résécables localement avancées (41% et 49% c. 14% et 85%, respectivement, chez les patients porteurs de métastases hépatiques). L'admission postopératoire aux soins intensifs a eacute;té fréquente (58%). Les complications postopératoires graves étaient souvent traitées par réanimation cardiorespiratoire énergique, intubation et soins intensifs (96 %), sans critères chronologiques de futilité définis (74 %). C'est aux chirurgiens traitants que revenait la plupart des décisions de fin de vie (97 %). Peu avaient accès à des consignes formelles au sujet de la futilité des interventions médicales (26 %). La couverture d'assurance n'a modifié ni le traitement (97%) ni les soins palliatifs (95%) dans les régions où les soins n'étaient pas universels. L'expérience des médecins, la culture régionale et la formation de base ont eu un impact sur le traitement (toutes, p < 0,05). CONCLUSION: Malgré une concordance remarquable, des différences géographiques et des différences liées à la formation ont eu un impact sur le traitement et les soins palliatifs pour l'adénocarcinome de la tête du pancréas.

The role of peri-hepatic drain placement in liver surgery: a prospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: The standard use of an intra-operative perihepatic drain (IPD) in liver surgery is controversial and mainly supported by retrospective data. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of IPD in liver surgery. METHODS: All patients included in a previous, randomized trial were analysed to determine the association between IPD placement, post-operative complications (PC) and treatment. A multivariate analysis identified predictive factors of PC. RESULTS: One hundred and ninety-nine patients were included in the final analysis of which 114 (57%) had colorectal liver metastases. IPD (n = 87, 44%) was associated with pre-operative biliary instrumentation (P = 0.023), intra-operative bleeding (P < 0.011), Pringle's manoeuver(P < 0.001) and extent of resection (P = 0.001). Seventy-seven (39%) patients had a PC, which was associated with pre-operative biliary instrumentation (P = 0.048), extent of resection (P = 0.002) and a blood transfusion (P = 0.001). Patients with IPD had a higher rate of high-grade PC (25% versus 12%, P = 0.008). Nineteen patients (9.5%) developed a post-operative collection [IPD (n = 10, 11.5%) vs. no drains (n = 9, 8%), P = 0.470]. Seven (8%) patients treated with and 9(8%) without a IPD needed a second drain after surgery, P = 1. Resection of ≥3 segments was the only independent factor associated with PC [odds ratio (OR) = 2, P = 0.025, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-3.7]. DISCUSSION: In spite of preferential IPD use in patients with more complex tumours/resections, IPD did not decrease the rate of PC, collections and the need for a percutaneous post-operative drain. IPD should be reserved for exceptional circumstances in liver surgery.