Hexafluoroisopropanol decreases liver ischemia-reperfusion injury by downregulation of high mobility group box-1 protein.

Liver ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury is associated with poor outcome after liver transplantation and liver resections. Hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) is a tri-fluorinated metabolites of volatile anesthetics and has modulatory effects on inflammation that have been observed mainly in cell culture experiments. In this survey, we investigated the effects of HFIP in a rat model of normothermic hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomized into three groups: (1) control in which animals were submitted to 30 min of partial liver ischemia with resection of non-ischemic liver lobes immediate after reperfusion, (2) pre-ischemia (PI) group in which animals received intravenous HFIP (67 mg/kg) 5 min before liver ischemia, and (3) pre-reperfusion (PR) group in which animals received intravenous HFIP (67 mg/kg) 5 min before reperfusion. Four hours after reperfusion, all animals were euthanized for sample collection. Aspartate and alanine transaminases, glucose, and high mobility group box-1 (HMGB-1) protein concentrations showed a significant decreased, and malondialdehyde was increased in the PR group compared with control and PI groups. Interleukin 6 (IL-6) was increased in the PI group compared with control and PR groups. IL-10 and -12 were increased in the PR and PI groups, respectively, when compared with the control group. Glucose decreased in the PR when compared with the control group. Post-conditioning with HFIP led to a decrease in hepatocellular injury and was associated with a downregulation of HMGB-1. The HFIP resulted in a better control of inflammatory response to ischemia-reperfusion even without causing a reduction in oxidative stress.

Creatinine-lactate score predicts mortality in non-acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure in patients listed for liver transplantation.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to analyze prognostic indicators of in-hospital mortality among patients listed for urgent liver transplantation (LT) for non-acetaminophen (APAP)-induced acute liver failure (ALF). METHODS: ALF patients listed for LT according to the King's College Criteria were retrospectively reviewed. Variables were recorded from medical records and electronic databases (HCMED and RedCap). RESULTS: The study included 100 patients, of which 69 were subject to LT and 31 died while waiting for LT. Patients were 35.5 ± 14.73 years old, and 78% were females. The main etiologies were virus (17%), drug-induced (32%), autoimmune (15%), and indeterminate hepatitis (31%). The prioritization-to-LT time interval was 1.5 days (0-9). The non-LT patients showed higher lactate (8.71 ± 5.36 vs. 4.48 ± 3.33 mmol/L), creatinine (229 ± 207 vs. 137 ± 136 µm/L), MELD (44 ± 8 vs. 38 ± 8), and BiLE scores (15.8 ± 5.5 vs. 10.3 ± 4.1) compared to LT patients (p < 0.05). Multiple logistic regression analysis identified creatinine and lactate as independent prognostic factors, and a creatinine-lactate (CL) score was developed. ROC analysis showed that creatinine, lactate, MELD, BiLE, and CL scores had considerable specificity (71-88%), but only BiLE, lactate, and CL presented high sensitivities (70%, 80%, and 87% respectively). AUCs were 0.696 for creatinine, 0.763 for lactate, 0.697 for MELD, 0.814 for BiLE, and 0.835 for CL. CONCLUSIONS: CL and BiLE scores predict mortality with more accuracy than MELD in patients with ALF during prioritization time. Creatinine and lactate are independent prognostic factors for mortality.

Insights of Outcome after Resection of Small Nonfunctioning Neuroendocrine Pancreatic Tumors.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of small nonfunctioning neuroendocrine pancreatic tumors (NF-PNETs) has been increasing systematically in the last few decades. Surgical resection was once considered the treatment of choice but has been questioned in the direction of a more conservative approach for selected patients. Our aim was to analyze the outcome of surgical resection of small (≤3cm) NF-PNETs. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 14 patients with sporadic NF-PNETs who underwent pancreatic resection. Data were collected from patients' medical records. RESULTS: Of the 14 patients included, 35.71% were men, and the average age was 52.36 ± 20.36 years. Comorbidities were present in 92.86% of the cases. The incidence of postoperative complications was 42.86%, the 30-day mortality was zero, and the length of follow-up was 3.31 ± 3.0 years. The results of pathological evaluations revealed WHO grade I in 42.86% of cases, II in 21.43%, and neuroendocrine carcinoma in 35.71%. The median tumor size was 1.85cm (range, 0.5-3cm), and 2 cases had synchronous metastasis. The median TNM stage was IIa (range, I-IV). The disease-free and patient survival rates were 87.5% and 100% at 3 years and 43.75% and 75% at 10 years, respectively. The tumor pathological grade was significantly higher in head tumors than body-tail tumors, but there were no differences with respect to tumor size and TNM staging. CONCLUSION: A surgical approach to treat small sporadic NF-PNETs is safe with low mortality and high patient survival. Based on these data, small pancreatic head tumors can be more aggressive, suggesting that surgical resection is still the best option to treat small nonfunctioning PNETS. Thus, conservative treatment should be indicated very cautiously for only cases with absolute contraindications for surgery.

Perioperative blood transfusion decreases long-term survival in pediatric living donor liver transplantation.

BACKGROUND: The impact of perioperative blood transfusion on short- and long-term outcomes in pediatric living donor liver transplantation (PLDLT) must still be ascertained, mainly among young children. Clinical and surgical postoperative complications related to perioperative blood transfusion are well described up to three months after adult liver transplantation. AIM: To determine whether transfusion is associated with early and late postoperative complications and mortality in small patients undergoing PLDLT. METHODS: We evaluated the effects of perioperative transfusion on postoperative complications in recipients up to 20 kg of body weight, submitted to PLDLT. A total of 240 patients were retrospectively allocated into two groups according to postoperative complications: Minor complications (n = 109) and major complications (n = 131). Multiple logistic regression analysis identified the volume of perioperative packed red blood cells (RBC) transfusion as the only independent risk factor for major postoperative complications. The receiver operating characteristic curve was drawn to identify the optimal volume of the perioperative RBC transfusion related to the presence of major postoperative complications, defining a cutoff point of 27.5 mL/kg. Subsequently, patients were reallocated to a low-volume transfusion group (LTr; n = 103, RBC ≤ 27.5 mL/kg) and a high-volume transfusion group (HTr; n = 137, RBC > 27.5 mL/kg) so that the outcome could be analyzed. RESULTS: High-volume transfusion was associated with an increased number of major complications and mortality during hospitalization up to a 10-year follow-up period. During a short-term period, the HTr showed an increase in major infectious, cardiovascular, respiratory, and bleeding complications, with a decrease in rejection complications compared to the LTr. Over a long-term period, the HTr showed an increase in major infectious, cardiovascular, respiratory, and minor neoplastic complications, with a decrease in rejection complications. Additionally, Cox hazard regression found that high-volume RBC transfusion increased the mortality risk by 3.031-fold compared to low-volume transfusion. The Kaplan-Meier survival curves of the studied groups were compared using log-rank tests and the analysis showed significantly decreased graft survival, but with no impact in patient survival related to major complications. On the other hand, there was a significant decrease in both graft and patient survival, with high-volume RBC transfusion. CONCLUSION: Transfusion of RBC volume higher than 27.5 mL/kg during the perioperative period is associated with a significant increase in short- and long-term postoperative morbidity and mortality after PLDLT.

Evaluation of drug-induced liver injury as etiology for acute liver failure in Brazil.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Little is known about the etiology of acute liver failure (ALF) in Latin America. The objective of this paper is to investigate the main etiologies of ALF in Brazil, including Drug Induced Liver Injury (DILI) using stringent causality criteria. PATIENTS OR MATERIAL AND METHODS: All the cases of individuals who underwent liver transplantation (LT) in 12 centers in Brazil for ALF were reviewed. When DILI was stated as the cause of ALF, causality criteria were applied on site by the main investigator in order to rule out other etiologies. RESULTS: 325 individuals had ALF mainly for unknown reasons (34%), DILI (27%) and AIH (18%). Reassessment of the 89 cases of DILI, using stringent causality criteria, revealed that in only 42 subjects could DILI be confirmed as the cause of ALF. Acetaminophen (APAP) toxicity (n = 3) or DILI due to herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) (n = 2) were not commonly observed. CONCLUSIONS: Undetermined etiology and DILI are the main causes of ALF in Brazil. However, APAP toxicity and DILI due to HDS are mostly uncommon.

Laparoscopic SpyGlass cholangioscopy evaluation during bilioenteric anastomosis for hepatolithiasis, a case report.

INTRODUCTION: Careful evaluation of intrahepatic injury of biliary tract diseases is crucial to assure proper management and estimate disease prognosis. Hepatholithiasis is a rare condition that can be associated to cholestatic liver diseases. Additional tools to improve diagnosis and patient care are of great interest specially if associated to decreased morbidity. Recently the spread of single-operator platforms of cholangioscopy brought this procedure back to scene. Our aim was to identify safety, feasibility and utility of SpyGlass cholangioscopy of biliary tract during laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 53 years-old man with hepatolithiasis associated to choledolithiasis under treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid and fenofibrate for 8 months, was submitted to laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy with cholangioscopy for biliary duct evaluation. Spyscope was inserted through a right lateral laparoscopic trocar entering the common bile duct. Examination of intra-hepatic bile ducts showed injury of right biliary. Few microcalculi were visualized. Left biliary ducts presented normal mucosa. Histopathological examination showed a chronic inflammatory process. During the procedure contrasted radiologic images were performed to assure Spyscope location. Following cholangioscopy evaluation, a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy was performed. To enlarge hepatic duct, a small longitudinal incision was made, and a PDS-5.0 running suture was used for bilioenteric anastomosis. Patient was discharged on postoperative day 6, with drain removal on day 20. CONCLUSION: SpyGlass cholangioscopy during laparoscopic hepaticojejunostomy is feasible leading to minimal additional invasion of the surgical. In this case the method was performed safely, providing detailed examination of injured biliary ducts, adding elements to determine disease prognosis and patient care.

Sevoflurane Preconditioning plus Postconditioning Decreases Inflammatory Response with Hemodynamic Recovery in Experimental Liver Ischemia Reperfusion.

OBJECTIVE: The inhalation anesthetic sevoflurane has presented numerous biological activities, including anti-inflammatory properties and protective effects against tissue ischemic injury. This study investigated the metabolic, hemodynamic, and inflammatory effects of sevoflurane pre- and postconditioning for short periods in the rescue of liver ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury using a rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty Wistar rats were divided into four groups: sham group, control ischemia group (partial warm liver ischemia for 45 min followed by 4 h of reperfusion), SPC group (administration of sevoflurane 2.5% for 15 min with 5 min of washout before liver IR), and SPPoC group (administration of sevoflurane 2.5% for 15 min before ischemia and 20 min during reperfusion). RESULTS: All animals showed a decrease in the mean arterial pressure (MAP) and portal vein blood flow during ischemia. After 4 h of reperfusion, only the SPPoC group had MAP recovery. In both the SPC and SPPoC groups, there was a decrease in the ALT level and an increase in the bicarbonate and potassium serum levels. Only the SPPoC group showed an increase in the arterial blood ionized calcium level and a decrease in the IL-6 level after liver reperfusion. Therefore, this study demonstrated that sevoflurane preconditioning reduces hepatocellular injury and acid-base imbalance in liver ischemia. Furthermore, sevoflurane postconditioning promoted systemic hemodynamic recovery with a decrease in inflammatory response.

PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF TOPICAL HEPATIC HYPOTHERMIA IN A MODEL OF LIVER ISCHEMIA/REPERFUSION INJURY IN RATS.

BACKGROUND: Ischemia/reperfusion causes organ damage but it is mandatory in hepatic transplantation, trauma and other complex liver surgeries, when Pringle maneuver is applied to minimize bleeding during these procedures. It is well known that liver ischemia/reperfusion leads to microcirculatory disturbance and cellular injury. In this setting hypothermia is known to reduce oxygen demand, lowering intracellular metabolism. OBJECTIVE:: To evaluate the effects of hypothermia in liver ischemia/reperfusion injury, using a new model of topic isolated liver hypothermia. METHODS: We used male Wistar rats weighting about 250 grams, kept in ad libitum feeding regime and randomly divided into two groups of nine animals: 1) Normothermic group, rats were submitted to normothermic ischemia of the median and left hepatic lobes, with subsequent resection of right and caudate lobes during liver reperfusion; and 2) Hypothermic group, rats were submitted to liver ischemia under hypothermia at 10°C. Liver ischemia was performed for 45 minutes. The animals were euthanized 48 hours after liver reperfusion for blood and liver tissue sampling. RESULTS: The transaminases analyses showed a significant decrease of AST and ALT in Hypothermic group (P<0.01) compared to Normothermic group (1403±1234 x 454±213 and 730±680 x 271±211 U/L, respectively). Histology showed severe necrosis in 50% and mild necrosis in 50% of cases in Normothermic group, but severe necrosis in 10% and mild or absent necrosis 90% of the cases in hypothermic group. CONCLUSION:: A simplified model of liver ischemia/reperfusion that simulates orthotopic liver autotransplantion was demonstrated. Topical hypothermia of isolated hepatic lobules showed liver protection, being a viable and practical method for any kind of in vivo liver preservation study.

Resultados preliminares de hipotermia tópica do fígado em modelo de isquemia/reperfusão hepática em ratos / Preliminary results of topical hepatic hypothermia in a model of liver ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Ischemia/reperfusion causes organ damage but it is mandatory in hepatic transplantation, trauma and other complex liver surgeries, when Pringle maneuver is applied to minimize bleeding during these procedures. It is well known that liver ischemia/reperfusion leads to microcirculatory disturbance and cellular injury. In this setting hypothermia is known to reduce oxygen demand, lowering intracellular metabolism. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of hypothermia in liver ischemia/reperfusion injury, using a new model of topic isolated liver hypothermia. METHODS We used male Wistar rats weighting about 250 grams, kept in ad libitum feeding regime and randomly divided into two groups of nine animals: 1) Normothermic group, rats were submitted to normothermic ischemia of the median and left hepatic lobes, with subsequent resection of right and caudate lobes during liver reperfusion; and 2) Hypothermic group, rats were submitted to liver ischemia under hypothermia at 10°C. Liver ischemia was performed for 45 minutes. The animals were euthanized 48 hours after liver reperfusion for blood and liver tissue sampling. RESULTS The transaminases analyses showed a significant decrease of AST and ALT in Hypothermic group (P<0.01) compared to Normothermic group (1403±1234 x 454±213 and 730±680 x 271±211 U/L, respectively). Histology showed severe necrosis in 50% and mild necrosis in 50% of cases in Normothermic group, but severe necrosis in 10% and mild or absent necrosis 90% of the cases in hypothermic group. CONCLUSION: A simplified model of liver ischemia/reperfusion that simulates orthotopic liver autotransplantion was demonstrated. Topical hypothermia of isolated hepatic lobules showed liver protection, being a viable and practical method for any kind of in vivo liver preservation study.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A isquemia/reperfusão leva a grave lesão de órgãos, mas ocorre obrigatoriamente no transplante hepático, no trauma e em outras cirurgias hepáticas complexas, quando a manobra de Pringle é aplicada com o intuito de minimizar o sangramento durante os procedimentos. É bem conhecido que a isquemia/reperfusão do fígado leva a distúrbios microcirculatórios e lesões celulares. Neste cenário, a hipotermia é conhecida por reduzir a demanda de oxigênio, diminuindo o metabolismo intracelular. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da hipotermia na lesão de isquemia/reperfusão hepática utilizando-se um novo modelo de hipotermia isolada do fígado. MÉTODOS: Utilizaram-se ratos Wistar do sexo masculino com peso aproximado de 250 gramas, mantidos em regime de alimentação ad libitum e divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos de nove animais: 1) Grupo Normotérmico - os ratos foram submetidos a isquemia normotérmica dos lobos hepáticos mediano e esquerdo, com posterior ressecção dos lobos direito e caudado durante a reperfusão hepática; e 2) Grupo Hipotérmico - os ratos foram submetidos a isquemia hepática sob hipotermia a 10°C. A isquemia hepática foi realizada durante 45 minutos. Os animais foram sacrificados 48 horas após a reperfusão hepática para coleta de sangue e tecido hepático para análise. RESULTADOS: As transaminases AST e ALT apresentaram diminuição significativa no grupo Hipotérmico (P<0,01) em relação ao grupo Normotérmico (1403±1234 x 454±213 e 730±680 x 271±211 U/L, respectivamente). A histologia mostrou necrose grave em 50% e necrose leve em 50% dos casos no grupo Normotérmico, porém, necrose grave em 10% e necrose leve ou ausente em 90% dos casos no grupo Hipotérmico. CONCLUSÃO: Foi demonstrado modelo simplificado de isquemia/reperfusão do fígado que simula o autotrasplante de fígado. A hipotermia tópica dos lóbulos hepáticos isolados mostrou proteção do fígado a ischemia/reperfusão, sendo um método viável e prático para qualquer tipo de estudo de preservação hepática in vivo.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY FOR PSEUDOPAPILLARY NEOPLASM OF THE PANCREAS.

BACKGROUND: Solid pseudopapillary pancreatic neoplasia is usually a large well-circumscribed pancreatic mass, with cystic and solid areas more frequently found in young women. It is a benign pancreatic neoplasia in most cases, therefore minimally invasive surgery could be an interesting approach. AIM: Evaluate the results of minimally invasive surgery for this neoplasia. METHODS: Patients with this tumor who underwent minimally invasive pancreatectomies between 2009 and 2015 in a single institution, were analyzed regarding demographic, clinical-pathological futures, post-operative morbidity and disease-free survival. RESULTS: All were women, and their median age was 39 (18-54) years. Two patients with tumor in the head of the pancreas underwent laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy, and another one underwent laparoscopic enucleation. Two patients with tumor in the neck underwent central pancreatectomy. Distal pancreatectomies were performed in the other five, one with splenic preservation. None required blood transfusion or conversion to open surgery. Two (20%) developed clinical relevant pancreatic fistulas, requiring readmission. Median length of postoperative hospital stay was five days (2-8). All resection margins were negative. Patients were followed for a median of 38 months (14-71), and there was no recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive surgery for solid pseudopapillary pancreatic neoplasia is feasible for tumors in different locations in the pancreas. It was associated with acceptable morbidity and respected the oncologic principles for treatment.

RACIONAL: Tumores sólidos pseudopapilíferos do pâncreas são em geral massas circunscritas, com componentes sólidos e císticos, mais frequentemente encontrados em mulheres jovens. Na maioria dos casos, são neoplasias benignas e portanto, a abordagem minimamente invasiva pode ser considerada vantajosa. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados das pancreatectomias laparoscópicas em pacientes com esses tumores. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados pacientes submetidos à pancreatectomias minimamente invasivas em um única instituição. Foram analisadas variáveis demográficas, clinicopatológicas, complicações pós-operatórias e sobrevida. RESULTADOS: Todos os pacientes eram mulheres e a idade mediana foi de 39 (18-54) anos. Duas pacientes com tumores na cabeça do pâncreas foram submetidas à duodenopancreatectomia e outra à enucleação. Duas pacientes com tumores no colo do pâncreas realizaram pancreatectomia central. Outras cinco com neoplasias no corpo e cauda foram submetidas à pancreatectomia distal, uma delas com preservação do baço. Nenhuma necessitou de conversão para laparotomia. Houve duas fístulas pancreáticas clinicamente relevantes (20%). O tempo mediano de internação foi de cinco (2 a 8) dias e duas pacientes foram reinternadas (20%). Todas as margens de ressecção foram negativas e após seguimento mediano de 38 (14-71) semanas, todas estavam livres de doença. CONCLUSÃO: As ressecções pancreáticas minimamente invasivas de tumores sólidos pseudopapilíferos são factíveis para tumores em diferentes localizações no pâncreas, com morbidade aceitável obedecendo-se os princípios oncológicos para o tratamento dessas neoplasias.

Minimally invasive surgery for pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas / Cirurgia minimamente invasiva para tratamento da neoplasia pseudopapilar do pâncreas

ABSTRACT Background: Solid pseudopapillary pancreatic neoplasia is usually a large well-circumscribed pancreatic mass, with cystic and solid areas more frequently found in young women. It is a benign pancreatic neoplasia in most cases, therefore minimally invasive surgery could be an interesting approach. Aim: Evaluate the results of minimally invasive surgery for this neoplasia. Methods: Patients with this tumor who underwent minimally invasive pancreatectomies between 2009 and 2015 in a single institution, were analyzed regarding demographic, clinical-pathological futures, post-operative morbidity and disease-free survival. Results: All were women, and their median age was 39 (18-54) years. Two patients with tumor in the head of the pancreas underwent laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy, and another one underwent laparoscopic enucleation. Two patients with tumor in the neck underwent central pancreatectomy. Distal pancreatectomies were performed in the other five, one with splenic preservation. None required blood transfusion or conversion to open surgery. Two (20%) developed clinical relevant pancreatic fistulas, requiring readmission. Median length of postoperative hospital stay was five days (2-8). All resection margins were negative. Patients were followed for a median of 38 months (14-71), and there was no recurrence. Conclusions: Minimally invasive surgery for solid pseudopapillary pancreatic neoplasia is feasible for tumors in different locations in the pancreas. It was associated with acceptable morbidity and respected the oncologic principles for treatment.

RESUMO Racional: Tumores sólidos pseudopapilíferos do pâncreas são em geral massas circunscritas, com componentes sólidos e císticos, mais frequentemente encontrados em mulheres jovens. Na maioria dos casos, são neoplasias benignas e portanto, a abordagem minimamente invasiva pode ser considerada vantajosa. Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados das pancreatectomias laparoscópicas em pacientes com esses tumores. Métodos: Foram avaliados pacientes submetidos à pancreatectomias minimamente invasivas em um única instituição. Foram analisadas variáveis demográficas, clinicopatológicas, complicações pós-operatórias e sobrevida. Resultados: Todos os pacientes eram mulheres e a idade mediana foi de 39 (18-54) anos. Duas pacientes com tumores na cabeça do pâncreas foram submetidas à duodenopancreatectomia e outra à enucleação. Duas pacientes com tumores no colo do pâncreas realizaram pancreatectomia central. Outras cinco com neoplasias no corpo e cauda foram submetidas à pancreatectomia distal, uma delas com preservação do baço. Nenhuma necessitou de conversão para laparotomia. Houve duas fístulas pancreáticas clinicamente relevantes (20%). O tempo mediano de internação foi de cinco (2 a 8) dias e duas pacientes foram reinternadas (20%). Todas as margens de ressecção foram negativas e após seguimento mediano de 38 (14-71) semanas, todas estavam livres de doença. Conclusão: As ressecções pancreáticas minimamente invasivas de tumores sólidos pseudopapilíferos são factíveis para tumores em diferentes localizações no pâncreas, com morbidade aceitável obedecendo-se os princípios oncológicos para o tratamento dessas neoplasias.

Nutritional support for fulminant hepatitis / Soporte nutricional para la hepatitis fulminante

Introduction: fulminant hepatitis (FH) is associated with exacerbated hypercatabolism, hypoglycemia and hyperammonemia that are accompanied by the release of proinflammatory cytokines and catabolic hormones into the systemic circulation worsening patient’s clinical condition. Nutritional support is a crucial element for the recovery of these patients. Objectives: the aim of this review is to update Nutritional Support for Fulminant Hepatitis. Methods: the review was performed using electronic search on Medline-PubMed using Mesh-terms. Results and discussion: there are not many data available on nutritional support to fulminant hepatitis or acute liver failure. Strategies for initial nutritional intervention are focused on the control of the previously described FH metabolic derangements, and should be individualized according to the severity of patient’s clinical condition. Energy and protein can be provided in amounts of 25-40 kcal/kg/day and 0.8-1.2 g/kg/day, respectively. Enteral nutrition therapy is indicated for patients with advancing encephalopathy or for those who cannot be properly fed orally. Euglycemia must be achieved and protein intake can be based on BCAA formulae. Lipids can be administered as energy supplementation with caution. Adequate nutrition therapy can potentially reduce morbidity and mortality of FH patients (AU)

Introducción: la hepatitis fulminante se asocia a un exacerbado hipercatabolismo, la hipoglicemia y la hiperamonemia están acompañadas por la liberación de citocinas proinflamatorias y hormonas catabólicas en la circulación sistémica, empeorando la condición clínica del paciente. El apoyo nutricional es un elemento crucial para la recuperación de estos pacientes. Objetivos: el objetivo de esta revisión es actualizar el apoyo nutricional para la hepatitis fulminante. Métodos: la revisión se llevó a cabo mediante la búsqueda electrónica en Medline-PubMed, utilizando malla de términos. Resultados y discusión: no hay muchos datos disponibles sobre el apoyo nutricional para la hepatitis fulminante o fallo hepático agudo. Las estrategias de intervención nutricional inicial se centran en el control de los trastornos metabólicos de la hepatitis fulminante descritos anteriormente, que deben ser individualizadas de acuerdo a la gravedad de la situación clínica del paciente. Energía y proteína se pueden proporcionar en cantidades de 25-40 kcal/kg/día y 0,8-1,2 g /kg/día, respectivamente. La terapia nutricional enteral está indicada en pacientes con encefalopatía avanzada o para aquellos que no pueden ser adecuadamente alimentados por vía oral. Se debe obtener una euglicemia y la ingesta de proteínas puede estar basada en fórmulas de BCAA. Los lípidos se pueden administrar como suplemento energético con precaución. Una terapia nutricional adecuada puede potencialmente reducir la morbilidad y la mortalidad de los pacientes con hepatitis fulminante (AU)

A seleção de pacientes utilizando-se o critério meld melhora a sobrevida a curto prazo dos pacientes submetidos ao transplante de fígado? / Does the patient selection with MELD score improve short-term survival in liver transplantation?

INTRODUÇÃO: O escore para modelo de doença terminal do fígado (MELD) introduzido em 2002 foi criado para melhorar a seleção de pacientes que estavam morrendo na lista de espera para o transplante de fígado. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a sobrevida precoce dos pacientes submetidos ao transplante de fígado quando o MELD é aplicado como critério de seleção. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada revisão "online" na base de dados PubMed/Medline/Scielo. Os termos utilizados foram transplante de fígado e/ou MELD e/ou análise de sobrevida no período de 2002 a 2009. Entre 124 artigos analisados, 94 foram excluídos devido a irrelevância do assunto e a falta de dados. Foram considerados L1, L2A e MELD>20 os pacientes mais afetados; L2B; L3 e MELD<20 os mais saudáveis. Foram compilados os dados dos pacientes transplantados, sobrevida de um ano, correlacionando-se os achados com MELD e as sobrevidas da era pré-MELD. RESULTADOS: O MELD foi aplicado principalmente em pacientes dos Estados Unidos e Europa com escore variando de 8,4 a 30. A sobrevida de um ano variou de 66,5 a 92%. A sobrevida de um ano antes e depois da era MELD mostrou: Grupo I (L1 e L2A) x Grupo III (MELD>20) com significância (p< 0,0001); Grupo II (L2B e L3) x Grupo IV (MELD<20) não significante. Também foi comparada a sobrevida média dos pacientes em um ano por países na era MELD. CONCLUSÃO: O escore MELD melhorou significativamente a sobrevida dos pacientes a curto prazo, principalmente naqueles considerados mais doentes na lista de espera para o transplante de fígado. Por outro lado não houve impacto naqueles considerados mais saudáveis da lista de espera.

INTRODUCTION: The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score introduced in 2002 has come to improve selection of patients dying in the liver transplantation waiting list. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the short-term survival in liver transplantation around the world when MELD score was applied as selection criteria. METHODS - A review has been done at the online database PubMed/ Medline/Scielo. The expressions applied for the search were "liver transplantation and/or MELD and/or survival analysis" from 2002 to 2009. Among the 124 analyzed articles, 94 were excluded due to irrelevance of the subject and lack of information. Were considered L1, L2A and MELD>20 the sickest patient; L2B, L3 and MELD< 20 the healthiest. Was compiled the data of transplanted patients, their one-year survival rate related to MELD score and compare it with pre-MELD era. RESULTS: MELD score has been applied, mainly in America and Europe patients, range from 8.4 to 30. One-year survival ranged from 66.5 to 92%. Analysis of patient survival rate significance between the pre-MELD and post-MELD era showed: Group I (L1 and L2A) x Group III (MELD>20), significant (p<0,0001); Group II (L2B and L3) x Group IV(MELD<20), not significant. Also, comparative one-year survival by country in the MELD era was search. CONCLUSION: The MELD score have significantly improved short-term survival for the sickest patient on the waiting list for liver transplantation; additionally, it does not have any significant impact in survival for the healthiest patient.

Does the patient selection with MELD score improve short-term survival in liver transplantation?

INTRODUCTION: The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score introduced in 2002 has come to improve selection of patients dying in the liver transplantation waiting list. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the short-term survival in liver transplantation around the world when MELD score was applied as selection criteria. METHODS - A review has been done at the online database PubMed/ Medline/Scielo. The expressions applied for the search were "liver transplantation and/or MELD and/or survival analysis" from 2002 to 2009. Among the 124 analyzed articles, 94 were excluded due to irrelevance of the subject and lack of information. Were considered L1, L2A and MELD>20 the sickest patient; L2B, L3 and MELD< 20 the healthiest. Was compiled the data of transplanted patients, their one-year survival rate related to MELD score and compare it with pre-MELD era. RESULTS: MELD score has been applied, mainly in America and Europe patients, range from 8.4 to 30. One-year survival ranged from 66.5 to 92%. Analysis of patient survival rate significance between the pre-MELD and post-MELD era showed: Group I (L1 and L2A) x Group III (MELD>20), significant (p<0,0001); Group II (L2B and L3) x Group IV(MELD<20), not significant. Also, comparative one-year survival by country in the MELD era was search. CONCLUSION: The MELD score have significantly improved short-term survival for the sickest patient on the waiting list for liver transplantation; additionally, it does not have any significant impact in survival for the healthiest patient.

Timing-dependent protection of hypertonic saline solution administration in experimental liver ischemia/reperfusion injury.

BACKGROUND: During liver ischemia, the decrease in mitochondrial energy causes cellular damage that is aggravated after reperfusion. This injury can trigger a systemic inflammatory syndrome, also producing remote organ damage. Several substances have been employed to decrease this inflammatory response during liver transplantation, liver resections, and hypovolemic shock. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hypertonic saline solution and the best timing of administration to prevent organ injury during experimental liver ischemia/reperfusion. METHODS: Rats underwent 1 hr of warm liver ischemia followed by reperfusion. Eighty-four rats were allocated into 6 groups: sham group, control of ischemia group (C), pre-ischemia treated NaCl 0.9% (ISS) and NaCl 7.5% (HTS) groups, pre-reperfusion ISS, and HTS groups. Blood and tissue samples were collected 4 hr after reperfusion. RESULTS: HTS showed beneficial effects in prevention of liver ischemia/reperfusion injury. HTS groups developed increases in AST and ALT levels that were significantly less than ISS groups; however, the HTS pre-reperfusion group showed levels significantly less than the HTS pre-ischemia group. No differences in IL-6 and IL-10 levels were observed. A significant decrease in mitochondrial dysfunction as well as hepatic edema was observed in the HTS pre-reperfusion group. Pulmonary vascular permeability was significantly less in the pre-reperfusion HTS group compared to the ISS group. No differences in myeloperoxidase activity were observed. The liver histologic score was significantly less in the pre-reperfusion HTS group compared to the pre-ischemia HTS group. CONCLUSION: HTS ameliorated local and systemic injuries in experimental liver ischemia/reperfusion. Infusion of HTS in the pre-reperfusion period may be an important adjunct to accomplish the best results.

Efeito da solução salina hipertônica nas lesões resultantes da isquemia/reperfusão hepática: estudo experimental em ratos / Effect of hypertonic saline solution during ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat liver

Introdução: A lesão de isquemia/reperfusão do fígado é caracterizada pelo agravamento da lesão isquêmica hepatocelular quando o órgão é revascularizado, podendo originar, nos casos mais graves, uma reação inflamatória sistêmica com lesão de órgãos à distância. O controle desse fenômeno é importante no transplante de fígado, nas cirurgias de ressecção hepática e no choque hemorrágico. A administração de soluções salinas hipertônicas têm se mostrado eficaz no tratamento do choque hemorrágico, pois melhora as alterações hemodinâmicas e, possivelmente, apresenta uma ação antiinflamatória. Neste trabalho foram avaliados os efeitos locais e sistêmicos da administração da solução salina hipertônica na lesão de isquemia/reperfusão hepática em ratos. Métodos: Enquanto 14 ratos Wistar machos, dos 56 utilizados no estudo, compuseram o grupo controle, grupo C; os demais, que foram submetidos à uma hora de isquemia hepática e 4 horas de reperfusão, compuseram outros grupos de 14 animais: o grupo ST, animais que não receberam tratamento; o grupo SSF, animais que receberam 34 mL/kg de NaCl 0,9%, por via endovenosa, 15 minutos antes da reperfusão; o grupo SSH, animais que receberam 4 mL/kg de NaCl 7,5%, 15 minutos antes da reperfusão. Após 4 horas de reperfusão, os materiais foram coletados para análise. Foram realizadas as dosagens das transaminases AST e ALT, a avaliação das funções oxidativas e fosforilativas mitocondriais, a dosagem das interleucinas IL-6 e IL-10, as análises teciduais pulmonares e a análise histológica do fígado isquêmico e não isquêmico. Resultados: Quando comparado aos grupos ST e SSF, o grupo SSH apresentou elevação dos níveis de AST e ALT significantemente menores; preservação da função mitocondrial tanto dos lobos isquêmicos, como dos não isquêmicos, significantemente melhor; elevação dos níveis de IL-6 e IL-10 sem significância estatística; aumento da permeabilidade vascular pulmonar significantemente menor; e elevação da atividade...

Introduction: During liver ischemia, the drop in mitochondrial energy production leads to cellular damage, which is aggravated during restoration of blood supply. Besides local hepatic injury, the ischemia/reperfusion process can trigger a systemic inflammatory syndrome producing remote organ damage. To control these alterations in clinical conditions like liver transplantation, liver resections and hypovolemic shock, is crucial to achieve proper patient management. Aim: To evaluate the effect of the sodium chloride hypertonic solution on prevention of local and systemic injury during partial liver ischemia/reperfusion. Methods: Animals underwent partial warm liver ischemia/reperfusion. Fity six Wistar male rats were randomly allocated into four groups. Fourteen animals were submitted to sham operation and allocated to C group; 42, submitted to one hour of liver ischemia followed by 4 hours of reperfusion, were allocated in three additional groups: ST group, 14 animals that received no treatment; SSF group, 14 animals that received NaCl 0.9%, 34 mL/kg, intravenously; SSH group, animals that received NaCl 7.5%, 4 mL/kg, intravenously. Blood and tissue samples were collected four hours after reperfusion, when animals were killed. Blood samples were collected to determinate AST, ALT, IL-6 and IL-10 levels. Liver and pulmonary tissues were assembled for liver histology and for liver mitochondrial phosphorylation, pulmonary vascular permeability and myeloperoxidase analyzes. Results: Hypertonic saline solution showed beneficial effects in the treatment of liver ischemia/reperfusion injury. SSH group presented elevation of AST and ALT plasma levels significantly lower than ST and SSF groups. A significant reduction on mitochondrial dysfunction was observed in SSH group compared with ST and SSH groups. Elevation in serum IL-6 and IL-10 was similar among ST, SSF and SSH groups. Pulmonary vascular permeability was significantly lower in group SSH compared...