Bariatric Evaluation Through AI: a Survey of Expert Opinions Versus ChatGPT-4 (BETA-SEOV).

BACKGROUND: Recent advancements in artificial intelligence, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT-4, are revolutionizing various sectors, including healthcare. This study investigates the use of ChatGPT-4 in identifying suitable candidates for bariatric surgery and providing surgical recommendations to improve decision-making in obesity treatment amid the global obesity epidemic. METHODS: We devised ten patient scenarios, thoughtfully encompassing a spectrum that spans from uncomplicated cases to more complex ones. Our objective was to delve into the decision-making process regarding the recommendation of bariatric surgery. From July 29th to August 10th, 2023, we conducted a voluntary online survey involving thirty prominent bariatric surgeons, ensuring that there was no predetermined bias in the selection of a specific type of bariatric surgery. This survey was designed to collect their insights on these scenarios and gain a deeper understanding of their professional experience and background in the field of bariatric surgery. Additionally, we consulted ChatGPT-4 in two separate conversations to evaluate its alignment with expert opinions on bariatric surgery options. RESULTS: In 40% of the scenarios, disparities were identified between the two conversations with ChatGPT-4. It matched expert opinions in 30% of cases. Differences were noted in cases like gastrointestinal metaplasia and gastric adenocarcinoma, but there was alignment with conditions like endometriosis and GERD. CONCLUSION: The evaluation of ChatGPT-4's role in determining bariatric surgery suitability uncovered both potential and shortcomings. Its alignment with experts was inconsistent, and it often overlooked key factors, emphasizing human expertise's value. Its current use requires caution, and further refinement is needed for clinical application.

Best practice approach for redo-surgeries after sleeve gastrectomy, an expert's modified Delphi consensus.

BACKGROUND: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most common metabolic and bariatric surgical (MBS) procedure worldwide. Despite the desired effect of SG on weight loss and remission of obesity-associated medical problems, there are some concerns regarding the need to do revisional/conversional surgeries after SG. This study aims to make an algorithmic clinical approach based on an expert-modified Delphi consensus regarding redo-surgeries after SG, to give bariatric and metabolic surgeons a guideline that might help for the best clinical decision. METHODS: Forty-six recognized bariatric and metabolic surgeons from 25 different countries participated in this Delphi consensus study in two rounds to develop a consensus on redo-surgeries after SG. An agreement/disagreement ≥ 70.0% on statements was considered to indicate a consensus. RESULTS: Consensus was reached for 62 of 72 statements and experts did not achieve consensus on 10 statements after two rounds of online voting. Most of the experts believed that multi-disciplinary team evaluation should be done in all redo-procedures after SG and there should be at least 12 months of medical and supportive management before performing redo-surgeries after SG for insufficient weight loss, weight regain, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Also, experts agreed that in case of symptomatic GERD in the presence of adequate weight loss, medical treatment for at least 1 to 2 years is an acceptable option and agreed that Roux-en Y gastric bypass is an appropriate option in this situation. There was disagreement consensus on efficacy of omentopexy in rotation and efficacy of fundoplication in the presence of a dilated fundus and GERD. CONCLUSION: Redo-surgeries after SG is still an important issue among bariatric and metabolic surgeons. The proper time and procedure selection for redo-surgery need careful considerations. Although multi-disciplinary team evaluation plays a key role to evaluate best options in these situations, an algorithmic clinical approach based on the expert's consensus as a guideline can help for the best clinical decision-making.

Swallowable Intragastric Balloon: First Consecutive Experience in Argentina.

Background: Swallowable balloons are innovative devices for the treatment of obesity. Endoscopy or anesthesia for implantation is not required. They are generally well tolerated and experience reports satisfactory results in relation to weight loss. The objective of this study was to analyze the first experience with the implementation of a swallowable balloon in Argentina. Methods: It is a descriptive retrospective observational study on the treatment of obesity in patients who underwent swallowable balloons in Argentina, admitted to one center, in a period time of 12 months with a follow-up of 6 months. Results: A total of n = 153 patients were recruited between June 2021 and May 2022, 78% were women and 22% men. The average age was 39 years. Average body mass index was 29.5 kg/m2. Balloon implantation was performed with complete swallowing by the patients in 19.4% of the cases, swallowing with operator assistance in 55.5%, and swallowing with stylet assistance in 25%. The adverse effects reported were abdominal pain (80%), nausea (60%), vomiting (38%), headache (36%), gastroesophageal reflux (29%), constipation (11%), and diarrhea (7%). No deaths were reported. A mean 4-month weight loss of 12% was reported. Conclusion: Swallowable balloon for the treatment of obesity is effective, safe, and well tolerated. Adverse effects are not severe.

Risk Factors for Hemorrhagic Adverse Events in Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage: A Prospective Multicenter Study.

PURPOSE: To determine risk factors (RFs) for hemorrhagic adverse events (AEs) associated with percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) and to develop a risk assessment model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a multicenter, prospective, case control study between 2015 and 2020. Adults with an indication for PTBD were included. Patients who had undergone recent previous drainage procedures were excluded. Multiple variables were controlled. The exposure variables were the number of capsular punctures and passes (using the same puncture). A multivariate analysis was performed (logistic regression analysis). RESULTS: A total of 304 patients (mean age, 63 years ± 14 [range, 23-87 years]; female, 53.5%) were included. Hemorrhagic AEs occurred in 13.5% (n = 41) of the patients, and 3.0% (n = 9) of the cases were severe. Univariate analysis showed that the following variables were not associated with hemorrhagic AEs: age, sex, bilirubin and hemoglobin levels, type of pathology, portal hypertension, location of vascular punctures, ascites, nondilated bile duct, intrahepatic tumors, catheter features, blood pressure, antiplatelet drug use, and tract embolization. Multivariate analysis showed that number of punctures (odds ratio [OR], 2.5; P = .055), vascular punctures (OR, 4.1; P = .007), fatty liver or cirrhosis (OR, 3.7; P = .021), and intrahepatic tumor obstruction (Bismuth ≥ 2; OR, 2.4; P = .064) were associated with hemorrhagic AEs. Patients with corrected coagulopathies had fewer hemorrhagic AEs (OR, -5.5; P = .026). The predictability was 88.2%. The area under the curve was 0.56 (95% confidence interval, 0.50-0.61). CONCLUSIONS: Preprocedural and intraprocedural RFs were identified in relation to hemorrhage with PTBD. AE risk assessment information may be valuable for prediction and management of hemorrhagic AEs.

Toward a Change in Our Work in Surgery: Collaborative Work, Coaching, and Teamwork.

Background: Until now, working with others has been shaped by a style where 1 person made the main decisions at the top of the hierarchical pyramid. These days this one-directional model no longer makes sense. That is why we need to change to a collaborative style. Methods: An overview on the change in our surgical work and definitions on the collaborative work, coaching, and teamwork will be discussed and analyzed. Results and Discussion: The system is defined by the boundaries that we set; they can often be the type of activity to be carried out or the way it is achieved. Collaboration means accompanying processes with a clear idea of what needs to be achieved and what values need to be followed. In work contexts that are globalized, diverse, virtual, and made up of highly educated specialists, isolation and a lack of collaboration are common. We would like to highlight four of them: (1) Signature relationship practices: The importance of building relationships on the basis of "who I am," not "what I am." (2) Ambidextrous leadership: Collaborative work needs to concentrate first on the task and on performing it effectively. (3) Mentoring versus "tit-for-tat culture": Collaborative work helps the design of individual and team identities. (4) Training in relationship skills: for communication and conflict resolution. Conclusions: Working on relationship building conversations generates a systemic view that allows the creation of a communication context that facilitates collaborative work. They are all key skills to achieve a collaborative culture on work.

Simulador de fosa ilíaca derecha para la adquisición de habilidades básicas en apendicectomía convencional / RIGHT ILIAC FOSSA SIMULATOR FOR THE ACQUISITION OF BASIC SKILLS IN CONVENTIONAL APPENDICECTOMY

Introducción: La simulación quirúrgica es un método de enseñanza que cada día va abarcando más terreno, dejando de lado al modelo tradicional de aprendizaje en los servicios de cirugía. El proceso inflamatorio del apéndice cecal es todavía una de las patologías más prevalentes en el área del cirujano general, quien debe tener varias estrategias para poder resolver la misma. Aquí presentamos un simulador de fosa iliaca derecha para la adquisición de habilidades básicas en apendicetomía convencional. Material y Métodos: se desarrolló un simulador de fosa iliaca derecha de la siguiente manera: se recorta el centro la tapa de una caja de aglomerado, y tanto los foamy como el papel crepé en rectángulos del tamaño de la tapa de la caja; se crea un preparado cadavérico utilizando el intestino vacuno; se coloca el preparado y por encima una compresa teñida en la bolsa de polietileno, dentro de la caja; se cierra la caja y se colocan las láminas de foamy y el papel crepé encima de la tapa, fijadas con los tornillos y tuercas, representando la pared abdominal. Resultado: Simulador reproducible, económico y de fácil elaboración. Tiempo total de armado: 1 hora. Conclusiones: Se puede utilizar para simular la técnica quirúrgica de apendicectomía convencional y sus variantes

Introduction: Surgical simulation is a teaching method that covers more ground every day, leaving aside the traditional apprenticeship model in surgery services. The inflammatory process of the cecal appendix is still one of the most prevalent pathologies in the area of the general surgeon, who must have several strategies to solve it. Here we present a right iliac fossa simulator for the acquisition of basic skills in conventional appendectomy. Material and Methods: We cut the center of the lid of the chipboard box, then cut the foamy and the crepe paper into rectangles the size of the lid of the box. We create a cadaveric preparation using the bovine intestine. Then put the preparation with a dyed compress above it in the polyethylene bag, inside the box. We close the box and place on the lid the foamy and crepe paper, fixed with bolts and nuts. Result: Cheap and easy-made simulator. We can armed de simulator in one hour. Conclusions: It can be used to simulate the conventional appendectomy surgical technique and its different variants.

Complicaciones nutricionales de la cirugía bariátrica / 9 NUTRITIONAL COMPLICATIONS OF BARIATRIC SURGERY

La cirugía bariátrica es reconocida como una terapia altamente efectiva para la obesidad, ya que logra una pérdida de peso sostenida, una reducción de las comorbilidades y la mortalidad relacionadas con la obesidad; además mejora de la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Sin embargo, las deficiencias nutricionales son un problema inherente en el período postoperatorio y, a menudo, requieren una suplementación de por vida. Los tipos de desnutrición después de la cirugía incluyen desnutrición proteico-energética y deficiencias de micronutrientes, como hierro, ácido fólico, vitamina A y vitamina B12. Lamentablemente, no existen regímenes estandarizados de cuidados posteriores, y los costos de los suplementos nutricionales los pagan los propios pacientes. Esta revisión se enfoca en el estudio de la desnutrición poscirugía bariátrica, recorriendo las principales deficiencias y sus causas

Bariatric surgery is recognized as a highly effective therapy for obesity, as it achieves sustained weight loss, a reduction in comorbidities and obesity-related mortality; It also improves the quality of life of patients. However, nutritional deficiencies are an inherent problem in the postoperative period and often require lifelong supplementation. Types of malnutrition after surgery include protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, such as iron, folic acid, vitamin A, and vitamin B12. Currently, there are no standardized aftercare systems, and the costs of nutritional supplements are paid by the patients themselves. This review focuses on the study of malnutrition after bariatric surgery, covering the main deficiencies and their causes.

Perioperative Morbidity in Acute Appendicitis: Is Delayed Appendectomy Still an Option?

Background: Acute appendicitis is one of the most common causes of acute abdominal pain worldwide. Although several studies have tried to investigate effects of delayed appendectomy, robust recommendations on this topic are still lacking. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the correlation between delayed surgical treatment in acute appendicitis and postoperative complications. Materials and Methods: A 5-year retrospective study was conducted including all patients aged >15 years who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy. Groups were categorized according to the time of in-hospital delay (IHD) (time from hospital admission to surgical incision) as Group A: Early appendectomy (IHD <8 hours) and Group B: Delayed appendectomy (IHD ≥8 hours). Demographics and clinical characteristics, operative time, appendicitis grading score according to disease severity score, and clinical outcomes were considered for analyses. Results: A total of 290 patients were included for statistical analysis: 145 patients (50%) in Group A and 145 patients (50%) in Group B. Patients' baseline characteristics were similar between groups. There were no statistically significant differences between groups A and B in terms of operative time (72.60 minutes versus 72.47 minutes, P = .061), use of drain (53.8% versus 46.2%, P = .731), postoperative complications (47.4% versus 52.6%, P = .812), and length of hospital stay (2.39 [1-24] versus 2.79 [1-12], P = .645). There were no 30-day readmissions in both groups. Overall mortality was 0.3%. Conclusion: Our results suggest that an IHD of ≥8 hours does not significantly increase the risk of complicated appendicitis, the incidence of perioperative complications, postoperative length of stay, or mortality.

The Panoramic View of Revisional Bariatric Surgery.

Introduction: Obesity remains a major public chronic disease, and the multifactorial components of its relapse in many patients remain inevitable. Methods: This article provides a panoramic view of the most commonly performed revisional bariatric surgery (RBS). RBS is a complex procedure; thus, primary procedures should be well chosen and performed to avoid the increasing number of RBS cases. Results: Bariatric surgery is the only successful long-term treatment for obesity. However, a proportion of primary bariatric surgeries has failed during the follow-up period. In recent decades, the solution for these complications is by performing RBS. It is mandatory to understand obesity as a chronic disease to appropriately treat patients. Treatment strategies are needed to determine the indications for revision. RBS requires a meticulous evaluation to facilitate good long-term results. Conclusions: Treatment strategies will be a fundamental pillar to wisely determine the indications for revision and identify the factors influencing failure by prudently and rationally evaluating the revisional procedure that the patient will benefit from and acquiring a high level of surgical skills.

A Comparison of Clinical Outcomes Between Two Different Models of Surgical Robots in Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.

Introduction: For the past 20 years, robotic surgical systems have been used for the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The da Vinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Inc.) has been one of the most used robotic platforms. This study aims to retrospectively compare the performance of two models of surgical robots. Materials and Methods: A retrospective comparative study was conducted from a prospective database including all patients who underwent robotic RYGB (RRYGB) from 2011 to 2020. Results: Of a total of 277 patients included, 134 were in the RRYGB using the da Vinci S™ (RRYGB-S™) group and 143 were in the RRYGB using the da Vinci Xi™ (RRYGB-Xi™) group. The mean operative time in the RRYGB-S and RRYGB-Xi groups was 154 ± 28 and 151 ± 32 minutes, respectively (P = .510). The was no statistically significant difference in terms of intraoperative complications between the groups with regard to positive blue test, bleeding, and failure of stapler line. The readmission rate was higher in the RRGB-S group (14.1%) than in the RRYGB-Xi group (3.4%) (P = .004), and it was mainly due to major complications (P = .003) including pouch and gastrojejunostomy anastomotic leaks (P = .001). The nonsurgical complications were statistically significantly higher in the RRYGB-S group (7.4%) than in the RRYGB-Xi group (2.1%) (P < .05), as well as the surgical complications were higher in the RRYGB-S group (7.5%) than in the RRYGB-Xi group (0%) (P < .001). The mean percentage of the total weight loss at 1 and 2 years of follow-up did not show any statistically significant difference (P = .547). Conclusions: The higher complication rate in the S surgical system might be correlated with the initial learning curve and stressed the need for proper robotic surgical training and accurate strategies when introducing emerging technologies into the surgical practice.

Chronic Gastric Dilation-Surgical Management.

Background: Chronic dilation of the gastric remnant is a rare complication, although it can be serious. It is due to an exaggerated distension of the gastric remnant after a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Clinical suspicion and computed tomography (CT) are essential for its diagnosis. Its treatment is by means of a decompressive gastrostomy, which can be percutaneous or surgical, an option that can be carried out in certain patients. We present a clinical case of chronic dilation of the gastric remnant and its laparoscopic surgical resolution. Methods: We present a clinical case of a 67-year-old patient who underwent a RYGB. An abdominal CT scan showed chronic dilation of the gastric remnant. A laparoscopic biopsy and a laparoscopic-assisted percutaneous gastrostomy were performed. Conslusion: The combined percutaneous laparoscopic approach is a good option for cases of chronic gastric dilations of unknown origin, allowing to discover and treat its causes.

Single Anastomosis Duodeno-ileal Bypass As a Revisional Procedure Following Sleeve Gastrectomy: Review of the Literature.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomies (LSGs) can experience weight-loss failure and conversion to another bariatric procedure. An analysis of the bariatric literature concerning the single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) as revisional surgery after LSG in terms of safety and efficacy identified 607 studies. Fifty-nine studies were analyzed for full content review and 9 primary studies (398 patients) were included. Revisional single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass (SADI) was performed in 294 patients at a mean interval of 37.7 months (range 11-179). Total weight loss (%) varies from 20.5% to 46.2%. Early complications after surgery occurred in 4.1% surgeries including leak (7 cases -1.9%). Mortality was nil. SADI after LSG, after failed sleeve gastrectomy or as a sequential procedure, offers a satisfactory weight loss result. Both early and late term complications are acceptable.

Online Education, Was It Here but We Did Not Know?

Background: Online education is not new. Their main options are talks, videos, and virtual courses. The quality and quantity of talks, together with the level of the speakers, is variable and heterogeneous. The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this process. The objective of this study was to analyze the result of a questionnaire on the current state of online education. Methods: Retrospective descriptive observational study based on a questionnaire. The participants consulted were Latin American physicians with different specialties. Results: A total of n = 361 participants were recruited. 26.9% had between 6 and 15 years of work experience. 63.1% carried out teleconsultation with their patients, and 96.1% attended between 1 and 10 talks/courses/webinar during the pandemic, whereas 1.6% did not attend any. "Talks" given received a rating of "Very Good" by 51.2%, and a 59.5% considered that the "Hybrid" option would be the best modality for future medical congresses in the postpandemic era. 84.7% considered that other possibilities of online teaching and online surgical training should be explored. Conclusion: Online education has marked the way of transmitting knowledge in recent years. It has been well accepted by those attending academic meetings.

Reflux After Sleeve Gastrectomy: An Update.

Background: Modifications of gastric anatomy, function, and of the esophagogastric junction secondary to sleeve gastrectomy (SG) can worsen the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Its late diagnosis and poor treatment can lead to serious complications. In recent years, attempts have been made to optimize preoperative studies and improve surgical techniques to prevent this problem. The aim of this study was to update on the presence of GERD and their symptoms post-SG. Methods: A literature review of articles based on randomized clinical trials on the presence of GERD after SG was carried out, in a period of 10 years. Results: A result of 336 articles was obtained, of which 327 were discarded and 9 were included. The variables of GERD post-SG were analyzed according to their symptoms ("improved," "worsened," and "unchanged"), "remission," or appearance "de novo." Conclusion: GERD is a frequently associated pathology in obese patients. Several authors reported that symptoms worsen after SG, and has been diagnosed de novo. The application of exhaustive preoperative studies and a correct surgical technique could reduce its incidence.

Laparoscopic-Percutaneous Combined Gastrostomy: Initial Experience and Description of a Technique.

Background: Gastrostomy is a widely used procedure that aims to obtain access to the stomach. Its purpose may be feeding or gastric decompression. Currently, the most common techniques are endoscopic and radiologic. Sometimes, these accesses are not available due to technical or patient-specific factors. In these cases, laparoscopic and percutaneous approaches combined could be an option. The aim of this study was to describe a laparoscopic-percutaneous combined gastrostomy procedure, feasibility, and complications. Materials and Methods: Retrospective descriptive observational study. All patients underwent laparoscopic-percutaneous combined gastrostomy required for feeding or decompressive gastrostomy. We analyzed variables: demographics, surgical indication, operation time, hospitalization stay, success, and morbidity/mortality associated to the procedure. Results: A total of n = 17 patients were recruited (58.8% women and 41.2% men), with mean age of 53. Regarding the indications of laparoscopic-percutaneous combined gastrostomy, 47% were due to upper gastrointestinal/head and neck tumor, 29.4% stomach location in a retrocostal position, 17.7% colonic interposition, and 5.9% acute gastric dilation of remnant after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The mean time of the procedure was 25 minutes, and mean hospitalization stay was 1.2 days. The success of the procedure was 100%. No complications and mortality associated with the procedure were reported. Conclusion: Laparoscopic-percutaneous combined gastrostomy is fast, feasible, safe, and cost effective. It is an option in patients where it is not possible to perform standard minimally invasive approaches.

Colecistitis Aguda en el paciente crítico: ¿colecistostomía percutánea o colecistectomía quirúrgica? Revisión simple / Acute cholecystitis in the critical patient: percutaneous cholecistostint or surgical cholecistectomy? Simple review

Introducción: La colecistitis aguda es una patología quirúrgica común. Su resolución ideal es a través de la colecistectomía. En ocasiones, no es posible el abordaje quirúrgico, tomando protagonismo la colecistostomía percutánea. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar los resultados de la colecistostomía percutánea y de la colecistectomía quirúrgica en pacientes con colecistitis aguda. Material y Métodos: Se diseñó una revisión de trabajos clínicos que realizaron colecistostomías percutáneas y/o colecistectomías quirúrgicas en pacientes críticos con colecistitis aguda litiásica y/o alitiásica. Resultados: La búsqueda bibliográfica arrojó 12 artículos, de los cuáles se excluyeron 8 y se analizaron 4. De los artículos revisados, se reunieron 11374 pacientes con colecistitis (litiásica: 84,6% vs. alitiásica: 15,4%) analizando sus datos epidemiológicos. En el 21,4% de los casos se realizó colecistostomía percutánea y en el 78,6% colecistectomía quirúrgica. La morbilidad y mortalidad de los procedimientos percutáneos fue 11% y 9,8%, mientras que la de los procedimientos quirúrgicos fue 17,2% y 5,4%, respectivamente. El promedio de días de hospitalización fue 15.3 y 15.5, respectivamente. Conclusión: La colecistostomía percutánea presentó menor morbilidad, aunque reportó una mayor mortalidad. No hubo diferencias con respecto a la estadía hospitalaria. Los procedimientos percutáneos fueron menos costosos.

Introduction: Acute cholecystitis is a common surgical pathology. Its ideal resolution is through cholecystectomy. On occasions, a surgical approach is not possible, with percutaneous cholecystostomy taking center stage. The objective of this work was to analyze the results of percutaneous cholecystostomy and surgical cholecystectomy in patients with acute cholecystitis. Methods: A review of clinical studies that performed percutaneous cholecystostomies and / or surgical cholecystectomies in critically ill patients with acute lithiasic and / or alithiasic cholecystitis was designed. Results: The bibliographic search yielded 12 articles, of which 8 were excluded and 4 were analyzed. Of the articles reviewed, 11,374 patients with cholecystitis (lithiasic: 84.6% vs. alithiasic: 15.4%) were collected, analyzing their data epidemiological. Percutaneous cholecystostomy was performed in 21.4% of the cases and surgical cholecystectomy in 78.6%. The morbidity and mortality of percutaneous procedures was 11% and 9.8%, while that of surgical procedures was 17.2% and 5.4%, respectively. The average days of hospitalization were 15.3 and 15.5, respectively. Conclusion: Percutaneous cholecystostomy presented lower morbidity, although it reported higher mortality. There were no differences regarding hospital stay. Percutaneous procedures were less expensive.

Image-Guided Surgical Simulation in Minimally Invasive Liver Procedures: Development of a Liver Tumor Porcine Model Using a Multimodality Imaging Assessment.

Background: Image-guided liver surgery and interventions are growing as part of the current trend to translate liver procedures into minimally invasive approaches. Hands-on surgical training in such techniques is required. Consequently, a meaningful and realistic liver tumor model using multi-imaging modalities, such as ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MR), cone beam-CT (CBCT), is mandatory. The first aim of this study is to develop a novel tumor-mimic model and assess it with multi-imaging modalities. The second aim is to evaluate the usefulness of the model during image-guided liver procedures. Materials and Methods: The tumor-mimic model is made of a composition of hydrogel, smashed muscle, and gadolinium contrast solution. Five ex vivo livers and three pigs were included in the study. Procedures were performed in an experimental hybrid operating room. Under general anesthesia, US guidance was required to inject the biotumor formula into the pig's liver. US, CT, CBCT, and MR acquisitions were then performed after the initial injection. In vivo models were then used to perform liver procedures, including US-guided biopsy, radiofrequency ablation, and laparoscopic resection. Results: The formula developed is easily injected generating a tissue-like material. Visualization using multi-imaging modalities was appropriate, thereby allowing to perform image-guided techniques. Conclusion: A novel design of an in vivo and ex vivo tissue-like tumor liver model is presented. Due to the multimodality imaging appraisal, it may provide a realistic and meaningful model allowing to perform image-guided liver procedures.

Percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopy using a single-operator cholangioscope (pSOC), a retrospective, observational, multicenter study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Percutaneous cholangioscopy (PC) is more complex and invasive than a transpapillary approach, with the need for a large percutaneous tract of 16 French (Fr) on average in order to advance standard percutaneous cholangioscopes. The aim of this study was to investigate whether percutaneous single-operator cholangioscopy (pSOC) using the SpyGlass™ DS system is feasible, safe, and effective in PC for diagnostic and therapeutic indications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data of 28 patients who underwent pSOC in 4 tertiary referral centers were retrospectively analyzed. Technical and clinical success for therapeutic procedures was assessed as well as diagnostic accuracy of pSOC-guided biopsies and visualization. Adverse events and the required number and size of dilatations were reviewed. RESULTS: 25/28 (89%) patients had a post-surgical altered anatomy. The average number of percutaneous dilatations prior to pSOC was 1.25 with a mean dilatation size of 11 French. Histopathology showed a 100% accuracy. Visual impression showed an overall accuracy of 96.4%. Technical and clinical success was achieved in 27/28 (96%) of cases. Adverse events occurred in 3/28 (10.7%) cases. CONCLUSION: pSOC is a feasible, safe, and effective technique for diagnostic and therapeutic indications. It may be considered an alternative approach in clinical cases where gastrointestinal anatomy is altered. It has the potential to reduce peri-procedural adverse events and costs. Prospective randomized-controlled trials are necessary to confirm the previously collected data.