Pathophysiology of ascites: The importance of the intestine. A surgical contribution to the understanding of a medical problem.

The understanding of the mechanisms for the development of ascites has evolved over the years, involving the liver, peritoneum, heart, and kidneys as key responsible for its formation. In this article, we review the pathophysiology of ascites formation, introducing the role of the intestine as a major responsible for ascites production through "a game changer" case.

International Hepato-Pancreato-Billiary Association (IHPBA) registry study on COVID-19 infections in HPB surgery patients.

BACKGROUND: In response to the pandemic, the International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (IHPBA) developed the IHPBA-COVID Registry to capture data on HPB surgery outcomes in COVID-positive patients prior to mass vaccination programs. The aim was to provide a tool to help members gain a better understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on patient outcomes following HPB surgery worldwide. METHODS: An online registry updated in real time was disseminated to all IHPBA, E-AHPBA, A-HPBA and A-PHPBA members to assess the effects of the pandemic on the outcomes of HPB procedures, perioperative COVID-19 management and other aspects of surgical care. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-five patients from 35 centres in 18 countries were included. Seventy-three (58%) patients were diagnosed with COVID-19 preoperatively. Operative mortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy and major hepatectomy was 28% and 15%, respectively, and 2.5% after cholecystectomy. Postoperative complication rates of pancreatic procedures, hepatic interventions and biliary interventions were respectively 80%, 50% and 37%. Respiratory complication rates were 37%, 31% and 10%, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study reveals a high risk of mortality and complication after HPB surgeries in patient infected with COVID-19. The more extensive the procedure, the higher the risk. Nonetheless, an increased risk was observed across all types of interventions, suggesting that elective HPB surgery should be avoided in COVID positive patients, delaying it at distance from the viral infection.

Experiencia inicial en hepatectomías videolaparoscópicas / Initial experience in laparoscopic liver resections

RESUMEN Antecedentes: La cirugía hepática videolaparoscópica ha experimentado un importante desarrollo; sin embargo, la mayoría de las hepatectomías continúan haciéndose por vía convencional. Objetivo: presentar la experiencia y aplicabilidad de hepatectomías videolaparoscópicas. Material y métodos: análisis retrospectivo de pacientes sometidos a una hepatectomía entre agosto de 2010 y diciembre de 2019. Analizamos variables preoperatorias, intraoperatorias y posoperatorias. Para evaluar la aplicabilidad, se dividió la muestra en: Etapa 1: agosto de 2010 a diciembre de 2013; Etapa 2: enero de 2014 a diciembre de 2016, Etapa 3: enero de 2017 a diciembre de 2019. Resultados: de 385 hepatectomías realizadas, 119 fueron videolaparoscópicas: 53 (44%) fueron to talmente laparoscópicas, 64 (54%) mano-asistidas y 2 híbridas. La aplicabilidad global fue 31%. En la etapa 1: 23% , en la 2: 30% y en la 3: 44% (p < 0,05). Fueron patología maligna en la etapa 1: 36%, en la 2: 67% y en la 3: 72% (p < 0,05). Hepatectomías mayores: 13%, 31% y 32% en etapas 1, 2, y 3, respectivamente (p < 0,05). El índice de conversión fue 12%, 0% y 11%, respectivamente (p NS). Se utilizó clampeo pedicular en: 6%, 5% y 45%; (p < 0,05). Las complicaciones en la etapa 1 fueron 30%, en la 2: 28% y en la 3: 17%, siendo complicaciones Dindo-Clavien III o más, el 6%, 13% y 5%, respectivamente, p NS. Conclusiones: Aa pesar de su complejidad, las hepatectomías videolaparoscópicas son técnicamente reproducibles. Adquiriendo experiencia, podemos aumentar la aplicabilidad, a favor de la patología oncológica y complejidad, sin comprometer la seguridad del paciente.

ABSTRACT Background: Despite laparoscopic liver resection has significantly evolved, most hepatectomies are performed by the conventional approach. Objective: The aim of this study is to present the initial experience and applicability of laparoscopic liver resections. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing liver resection between August 2010 and December 2019. Perioperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were analyzed. To evaluate applicability, the sample was divided into 3 stages: stage 1, from August 2010 to December 2013; stage 2, from January 2014 to December 2016; and stage 3, from January 2017 to December 2019. Results: Of 385 liver resections performed, 119 were laparoscopic procedures: 53 (44%) were pure laparoscopic procedures, 64 (54%) were hand-assisted (64 patients) and 2 corresponded to hybrid procedures. Global applicability was 31%. In stage 1 1: 23%, in 2: 30% and in 3: 44% (p < 0.05). Malignant lesions: stage 1: 36%, stage 2: 67% and stage 3: 72% (p < 0.05). Major liver resections: 13%, 31% and 32% in stages 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p < 0.05). Conversion rate was 12%, 0% and 11%, respectively (p NS). Hepatic pedicle clamping was used in 6%, 5% and 45%; (p < 0.05). Complications in stage 1 were 30%, in stage 2: 28% and in stage 3: 17%, and Clavien-Dindo complications grade 3 or greater were 6%, 13% and 5%, respectively, p NS. Conclusions: Laparoscopic liver resections are complex procedures but technically reproducible. Applicability increases with the acquisition of experience, not only in malignant lesions but also in complex lesions ensuring safety for the patient.

Tumor papilar sólido-quístico pancreático / Solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas

RESUMEN Antecedentes: la neoplasia sólida pseudopapilar del páncreas es una entidad rara, que típicamente se presenta en mujeres jóvenes. Suele presentar síntomas abdominales inespecíficos. Es un tumor maligno de bajo grado de malignidad. Objetivos : el objetivo del siguiente informe de serie de casos es presentar 9 casos tratados en un cen tro y realizar una revisión bibliográfica del tema. Material y métodos: estudio retrospectivo descriptivo de los casos con diagnóstico anatomopatoló gico de neoplasia sólida pseudopapilar en el Servicio de Cirugía General, desde febrero de 2013 hasta septiembre de 2019. Se contemplaron como variables: edad, sexo, localización del tumor, tratamiento quirúrgico realizado, tiempo operatorio, complicaciones, estancia hospitalaria y seguimiento alejado. Resultados: fueron 9 casos, todos de sexo femenino con media de edad de 30 años (rango 20 a 70 años). La localización más frecuente fue en cola de páncreas en 4 casos (45%). Todas las pacientes fueron sometidas a cirugía, con abordaje laparoscópico en el 60% de los casos (n = 5); la resección pancreática distal con preservación esplénica fue la conducta más utilizada (n = 6). Se constataron tres complicaciones, de las cuales dos fueron colecciones abdominales como consecuencia de una fístula pancreática que se abordaron por vía percutánea, y la restante fue un retardo del vaciamiento gástrico por lo cual la paciente requirió internación prolongada. Conclusión: la neoplasia sólida pseudopapilar pancreática es una enfermedad poco frecuente, ma ligna pero con bajo riesgo de malignidad. Presenta buena sobrevida cuando se somete a cirugía de carácter curativo; la laparoscopia es la vía de abordaje de elección en centros con experiencia.

ABSTRACT Background: Solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas is a rare condition that affects young women. The most common symptom is unspecific abdominal pain. It is a malignant tumor of low malignant potential. Objective: The aim of this study is to report a case series of patients treated in a single center and perform a bibliographic review. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective study of the cases with pathological diagnosis of solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas treated in the Department of General Surgery between February 2013 and September 2019. The following variables were analyzed; age, sex, tumor location, surgical treatment, operative time, complications, length of hospital stay and long-term follow-up. Results: Nine patients were included; all of them were women with mean age of 30 years (range: 20 - 70 years). The most common location of the tumor was the tail of the pancreas (n = 4; 45%). Surgery was performed in all the cases; five cases underwent video-assisted laparoscopy and spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy was the technique more commonly used (n = 6). Three complications were recorded: two abdominal collections due to biliary leaks were trated by percutaneous approach and the other patient presented delayed gastric emptying and required prolonged hospitalization. Conclusion: Solid pseudopapillary tumor pf the pancreas is a rare low-grade malignant neoplasm. The prognosis is favorable after surgery and laparoscopy is the preferred approach in centers with experience.

Impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 sobre el trasplante hepático en la argentina. Otro daño colateral / Impact of COVID-19 pandemic in liver transplantation in Argentina. Other collateral damage

Resumen La pandemia COVID-19 declarada en marzo del 2020, ha generado preocupación mundial por su efecto en la salud de la población y el potencial colapso sanitario. La estrategia de "aplanar la curva" mediante el distanciamiento social permitió adaptar los recursos del sistema de salud a pacientes con COVID-19, pero no se pudo prever su repercusión en otras áreas de la salud. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar las consecuencias de la pandemia sobre el trasplante hepático en general y por hepatocarcinoma (HCC). Fueron realizados los siguientes estudios: a) un análisis retrospectivo utilizando datos del CRESI/INCUCAI para comparar ingreso en lista de espera, mortalidad en lista, donación y trasplante hepático desde 20/03 a 15/08, 2019 e igual periodo de 2020, y b) una encuesta a los centros de trasplante de mayor actividad trasplantológica para valorar el efecto de las medidas tomadas en diferentes situaciones institucionales y regionales. El primer análisis evidenció una disminución del 55% de los trasplantes hepáticos, con una reducción similar en la donación y en el ingreso a lista de espera hepática; mientras que el trasplante por HCC ascendió de 10% en 2019 a 22% en 2020. El segundo análisis, mostró que la tasa de ocupación de camas por pacientes COVID-19/semana fue variable: de 0.4% al 42.0%. El número de cirugías, hepato-bilio-pancreática, resección de HCC y trasplante hepático, se redujeron en 47%, 49%, 31% y 36% respectivamente. La reducción de la actividad trasplantológica afectó mayormente los centros con alta ocupación por COVID-19. El impacto final a largo plazo deberá evaluarse.

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic declared in March 2020, has generated worldwide concern due to its effect on the health of the population and the potential health collapse. The strategy of "flattening the curve" through social distancing made it possible to adapt the resources of the health system to patients with COVID-19, but results in other areas of health could not be predicted. The objective of this work was to analyze the consequences of the pandemic on liver transplantation in general and for hepatocarcinoma (HCC). The following studies were carried out: a) a retrospective analysis using data from the CRESI / INCUCAI to compare admission to the waiting list, mortality on the list, donation and liver transplantation from 03/20 to 08/15, 2019 and the same period in 2020, and b) a survey of the transplant centers with the highest transplant activity to assess the effect of the measures taken in different institutional and regional situations. The first analysis showed a 55% decrease in liver transplants, with a similar reduction in donation and admission to the liver waiting list; while HCC transplantation rose from 10% in 2019 to 22% in 2020. The second analysis showed that the occupancy rate of beds by COVID-19 patients / week was variable: from 0.4% to 42.0%. The number of surgeries, hepato-bilio-pancreatic, resection of HCC and liver transplantation, were reduced by 47%, 49%, 31% and 36% respectively. The reduction in transplant activity mainly affected centers with high occupancy due to COVID-19. The final long-term outcome will need to be assessed.

[Impact of COVID-19 pandemic in liver transplantation in Argentina. Other collateral damage]. / Impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 sobre el trasplante hepático en la Argentina. Otro daño colateral.

The COVID-19 pandemic declared in March 2020, has generated worldwide concern due to its effect on the health of the population and the potential health collapse. The strategy of "flattening the curve" through social distancing made it possible to adapt the resources of the health system to patients with COVID-19, but results in other areas of health could not be predicted. The objective of this work was to analyze the consequences of the pandemic on liver transplantation in general and for hepatocarcinoma (HCC). The following studies were carried out: a) a retrospective analysis using data from the CRESI / INCUCAI to compare admission to the waiting list, mortality on the list, donation and liver transplantation from 03/20 to 08/15, 2019 and the same period in 2020, and b) a survey of the transplant centers with the highest transplant activity to assess the effect of the measures taken in different institutional and regional situations. The first analysis showed a 55% decrease in liver transplants, with a similar reduction in donation and admission to the liver waiting list; while HCC transplantation rose from 10% in 2019 to 22% in 2020. The second analysis showed that the occupancy rate of beds by COVID-19 patients / week was variable: from 0.4% to 42.0%. The number of surgeries, hepato-bilio-pancreatic, resection of HCC and liver transplantation, were reduced by 47%, 49%, 31% and 36% respectively. The reduction in transplant activity mainly affected centers with high occupancy due to COVID-19. The final long-term outcome will need to be assessed.

La pandemia COVID-19 declarada en marzo del 2020, ha generado preocupación mundial por su efecto en la salud de la población y el potencial colapso sanitario. La estrategia de "aplanar la curva" mediante el distanciamiento social permitió adaptar los recursos del sistema de salud a pacientes con COVID-19, pero no se pudo prever su repercusión en otras áreas de la salud. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar las consecuencias de la pandemia sobre el trasplante hepático en general y por hepatocarcinoma (HCC). Fueron realizados los siguientes estudios: a) un análisis retrospectivo utilizando datos del CRESI/INCUCAI para comparar ingreso en lista de espera, mortalidad en lista, donación y trasplante hepático desde 20/03 a 15/08, 2019 e igual periodo de 2020, y b) una encuesta a los centros de trasplante de mayor actividad trasplantológica para valorar el efecto de las medidas tomadas en diferentes situaciones institucionales y regionales. El primer análisis evidenció una disminución del 55% de los trasplantes hepáticos, con una reducción similar en la donación y en el ingreso a lista de espera hepática; mientras que el trasplante por HCC ascendió de 10% en 2019 a 22% en 2020. El segundo análisis, mostró que la tasa de ocupación de camas por pacientes COVID-19/semana fue variable: de 0.4% al 42.0%. El número de cirugías, hepato-bilio-pancreática, resección de HCC y trasplante hepático, se redujeron en 47%, 49%, 31% y 36% respectivamente. La reducción de la actividad trasplantológica afectó mayormente los centros con alta ocupación por COVID-19. El impacto final a largo plazo deberá evaluarse.

Pediatric living donor liver transplant in a recipient with biliary atresia and portal vein duplication-How did we manage it?

Portal vein malformations might occur during the embryonic period, as a consequence of abnormal remodeling of vitelline veins during embryonic life. Patients suffering from biliary atresia are particularly prone to have vascular malformations; although being the most frequent indication for liver transplantation in the pediatric age, portal vein duplication has not been so far associated with biliary atresia, and to the best of our knowledge, there is no-written evidence describing how to manage it when it is first diagnosed while performing a pediatric liver transplant. Therefore, we present a recent case from our group, describing the intraoperative diagnosis of a double portal system in a patient with biliary atresia and failed Kasai. We aim to describe its surgical management, understanding that it is a real challenge to find them unexpectedly during the surgical procedure in the setting of cirrhosis and portal hypertension, particularly in small patients; therefore, by reporting this case, we aim to make readers aware about the chance of finding it, and how to managed it, to include this approach as part of the surgical armamentarium.

Unusual spontaneous porto-systemic shunt: The importance of diagnosing non-anatomical porto-systemic shunts to improve portal flow in pediatric living-related liver transplantation. Case report.

Collateral circulation secondary to liver cirrhosis may cause the development of large PSSs that may steal flow from the main portal circulation. It is important to identify these shunts prior to, or during the transplant surgery because they might cause an insufficient portal flow to the implanted graft. There are few reports of "steal flow syndrome" cases in pediatrics, even in biliary atresia patients that may have portal hypoplasia as an associated malformation. We present a 12-month-old female who received an uneventful LDLT from her mother, and the GRWR was 4.8. During the early post-operative period, she became hemodynamically unstable, developed ascites, and altered LFT. The post-operative ultrasound identified reversed portal flow, finding a non-anatomical PSS. A 3D CT scan confirmed the presence of a mesocaval shunt through the territory of the right gonadal vein, draining into the right iliac vein, with no portal inflow into the liver. The patient was re-operated, and the shunt was ligated. An intraoperative Doppler ultrasound showed adequate portal inflow after the procedure; the patient evolved satisfactorily and was discharged home on day number 49. The aim was to report a case of post-operative steal syndrome in a pediatric recipient due to a mesocaval shunt not diagnosed during the pretransplant evaluation.

Avances en Gastroenterología Trasplante intestinal desde la clínica a la investigación traslacional: contribuciones de una unidad integral de insuficiencia intestinal, rehabilitación y trasplante. Seguimiento biomédico del proceso de trasplante intestinal y su correlación con los distintos eventos fisiopatológicos que atraviesa el paciente.

One of the greatest achievements in gastroenterology and surgery of the last 50 years has been the capability to transplant different abdominal organs of the digestive system separately or as a whole. The complexity of the intestinal transplantation demands a multidisciplinary team engaged in the management of patients with intestinal failure responsible for defining the need for nutritional support, rehabilitation, or intestinal transplantation. This team should include a basic research area to provide answers to unresolved clinical problems. The aim of this work is to update the current status of intestinal transplantation, and to show the progress and results of our center; emphasizing our achievements in the clinical area, and the contributions of the translational research and mucosal immunology studies as part of the integral unit of intestinal failure, rehabilitation and transplantation. The data reported here demonstrate that the intestinal transplantation has been established as a therapeutic option in our country and Latin America, with long term results that have ranked our service at the level of the best centers in the world positioning us as referent in the specialty.

Desarrollo de un modelo experimental de ligadura portal asociada a transección parenquimatosa (ALPPS) en ratas / Development of an experimental model of portal vein ligation associated with parenchymal transection (ALPPS) in rats

ANTECEDENTES: La insuficiencia hepática postresección es una de las principales causas de muerte en el postoperatorio de una hepatectomía mayor. La técnica ALPPS aparece como una estrategia prometedora para evitarla, pero no existen estudios experimentales al respecto. El objetivo del trabajo es desarrollar un modelo experimental de ALPPS en ratas. MÉTODO: Se desarrolló un modelo experimental de ALPPS en 30 ratas Sprague Dawley. Se realizó la ligadura de la rama portal izquierda del lóbulo medio (LM), con lo cual se demarca el sector izquierdo (SILM) y derecho (SDLM); posteriormente se realizó la transección parenquimatosa por la línea isquémica. Se evaluaron el peso del animal, el volumen y peso del LM y de ambos. Sacrificio a los 3, 7 y 14 días (10 por grupo). RESULTADOS: No se presentaron complicaciones hemorrágicas ni ascitis en el postoperatorio. El incremento del volumen del LM fue del 24,1; 86,9 y 120,4% a los 3, 7 y 14 días. El SDLM (no ligado) se incrementó un 34,4; 78,8 y 102,0% a 3, 7 y 14 días. El SILM disminuyó un 42,6; 64,8, y 79,3% en los días 3, 7 y 14. CONCLUSIÓN: La realización del ALPPS fue posible en ratas, logrando los resultados esperados. Futuros estudios son necesarios para compararlo con la técnica de hepatectomía en 2 tiempos

BACKGROUND: Liver failure migth be a cause of death after major hepatectomies. The ALPPS technique appears to be a promising strategy to avoid it, however no experimental studies supporting this procedure have been previously described. The aim was to develop an experimental model of ALPPS in rats. Method. Experimental. A total of 30 Sprague Dawley rats were used. To develop the ALPPS procedure, ligation of the left portal branch of the middle lobe (LM) was performed. This demarcates the left side (SILM) from the right side (SDLM); parenchyma transection was performed following the demarcated line. The animal's weight, volume and weight of both LM were analyzed. Sacrifice at 3, 7 and 14 days after the procedure (10 per group) was performed. RESULTS: No bleeding or ascites were observed during the postoperative period. The LM increased by 24.1, 86.9 and 120.4% at 3, 7 and 14 days. The SDLM increased by 34.4, 78.8 and 102.0% at 3, 7 and 14 days. The SILM decreased 42.6, 64.8, and 79.3% at day 3, 7 and 14 days respectively. CONCLUSION: The ALPPS procedure can be performed in rats, achieving the expected results. Comparison studies to 2 staged hepatectomy will be necessary

[Liver resection for non tumoral liver disease. Multicentric experience in Argentina]. / Hepatectomía en patología hepática no tumoral. experiencia multicéntrica en Argentina.

BACKGROUND: The role of liver resection (LR) in patients with non-tumoral hepatic disease (NTHD) remains controversial. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the indications and outcomes of liver resections in patients with NTHD. METHODS: A retrospective analysis in a multicentric data base was performed. Outcome measures were incidence of postoperative cholangitis, infectious and non-infectious complications, hospital stay and overall mortality. RESULTS: One hundred and fourteen patients underwent LR due to NTHD from January 2001 to November 2011. Fourteen patients presented complex bile duct injuries (CBDI), 18 intra-hepatic lithiasis (IL), 32 liver hydatid cysts (LHC), 10 polycystic liver disease (PLD), 19 Caroli's disease (CD) and 21 other NTHD. Forty seven patients underwent a major hepatectomy and 67 a liver segmentectomy or an atypical liver resection. Thirty four patients (29%) presented surgical related complications. There was not intra or post-operative mortality. In long term outcomes, 98 patients (85%) were asymptomatic, 10 presented episodes of intermittent cholangitis that were treated with antibiotics, and 7 underwent another surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS: LR is a radical and effective procedure to treat benign NTHD instead of other surgical or percutaneous procedures, avoiding multiple sessions of treatment and high post procedure complications rates.

Development of an experimental model of portal vein ligation associated with parenchymal transection (ALPPS) in rats.

BACKGROUND: Liver failure might be a cause of death after major hepatectomies. The ALPPS technique appears to be a promising strategy to avoid it, however no experimental studies supporting this procedure have been previously described. The aim was to develop an experimental model of ALPPS in rats. METHOD: Experimental. A total of 30 Sprague Dawley rats were used. To develop the ALPPS procedure, ligation of the left portal branch of the middle lobe (LM) was performed. This demarcates the left side (SILM) from the right side (SDLM); parenchyma transection was performed following the demarcated line. The animal's weight, volume and weight of both LM were analyzed. Sacrifice at 3, 7 and 14 days after the procedure (10 per group) was performed. RESULTS: No bleeding or ascites were observed during the postoperative period. The LM increased by 24.1, 86.9 and 120.4% at 3, 7 and 14 days. The SDLM increased by 34.4, 78.8 and 102.0% at 3, 7 and 14 days. The SILM decreased 42.6, 64.8, and 79.3% at day 3, 7 and 14 days respectively. CONCLUSION: The ALPPS procedure can be performed in rats, achieving the expected results. Comparison studies to 2 staged hepatectomy will be necessary.

Hepatectomía en patología hepática no tumoral. experiencia multicéntrica en Argentina / [Liver resection for non tumoral liver disease. Multicentric experience in Argentina].

BACKGROUND: The role of liver resection (LR) in patients with non-tumoral hepatic disease (NTHD) remains controversial. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the indications and outcomes of liver resections in patients with NTHD. METHODS: A retrospective analysis in a multicentric data base was performed. Outcome measures were incidence of postoperative cholangitis, infectious and non-infectious complications, hospital stay and overall mortality. RESULTS: One hundred and fourteen patients underwent LR due to NTHD from January 2001 to November 2011. Fourteen patients presented complex bile duct injuries (CBDI), 18 intra-hepatic lithiasis (IL), 32 liver hydatid cysts (LHC), 10 polycystic liver disease (PLD), 19 Caroli’s disease (CD) and 21 other NTHD. Forty seven patients underwent a major hepatectomy and 67 a liver segmentectomy or an atypical liver resection. Thirty four patients (29

) presented surgical related complications. There was not intra or post-operative mortality. In long term outcomes, 98 patients (85

) were asymptomatic, 10 presented episodes of intermittent cholangitis that were treated with antibiotics, and 7 underwent another surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS: LR is a radical and effective procedure to treat benign NTHD instead of other surgical or percutaneous procedures, avoiding multiple sessions of treatment and high post procedure complications rates.

Hepatectomía en patología hepática no tumoral. experiencia multicéntrica en Argentina. / [Liver resection for non tumoral liver disease. Multicentric experience in Argentina].

BACKGROUND: The role of liver resection (LR) in patients with non-tumoral hepatic disease (NTHD) remains controversial. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the indications and outcomes of liver resections in patients with NTHD. METHODS: A retrospective analysis in a multicentric data base was performed. Outcome measures were incidence of postoperative cholangitis, infectious and non-infectious complications, hospital stay and overall mortality. RESULTS: One hundred and fourteen patients underwent LR due to NTHD from January 2001 to November 2011. Fourteen patients presented complex bile duct injuries (CBDI), 18 intra-hepatic lithiasis (IL), 32 liver hydatid cysts (LHC), 10 polycystic liver disease (PLD), 19 Carolis disease (CD) and 21 other NTHD. Forty seven patients underwent a major hepatectomy and 67 a liver segmentectomy or an atypical liver resection. Thirty four patients (29

) presented surgical related complications. There was not intra or post-operative mortality. In long term outcomes, 98 patients (85

) were asymptomatic, 10 presented episodes of intermittent cholangitis that were treated with antibiotics, and 7 underwent another surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS: LR is a radical and effective procedure to treat benign NTHD instead of other surgical or percutaneous procedures, avoiding multiple sessions of treatment and high post procedure complications rates.

[Study of prognostic factors in the hepatectomy for metastases of colorectal carcinoma--analysis of two scores]. / Estudio de factores pronóstico en resecciones hepáticas por metástasis de carcinoma colorrectal--análisis de dos scores.

BACKGROUND: Resection is the treatment of choice for colorectal cancer liver metastases. OBJECTIVE: This is a retrospective, longitudinal, retrospective analysis of different prognostic factors for survival in a consecutive series of liver resection for metastatic colorectal carcinoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between October 1998 and November 2007, we performed 89 liver resections for colorectal metastases. A retrospective analysis from the liver resection database was performed and the variables analyzed were related to demography, primary tumor and surgical procedure. Survival analysis was performed according to the Fong and Basingstoke scores. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 60.5 years and 67.4% were men. The primary tumor was localized in the colon in 73% of cases. In 68.5% the metastases were metachronous. The right hemiliver was involved in 46 patients (52%). Major hepatectomy was performed in 36 (40.2%), minor in 55 (59.8%) and combined procedures in 14 (15.7%). Seventy-seven (86.5%) R0 resections were achieved. Morbidity was 32.6%, with no perioperative mortality. Average follow-up was 32.5 months (range 1 to 158 months), with a median of 25.5 months. Median overall survival was 69.7 months and mean disease-free survival 58.7 months. Multivariate analysis found statistical significance for blood product requirement and margin of resection. Thirty-four patients are alive at the end of this study (45.9%). The Basingstoke predictive index for postoperative variables showed significant differences that were not demonstrated by the Fong clinical score on prognostic factors. CONCLUSIONS: The application of Basingstoke predictive index and Fong score with biomarkers may indicate the most appropriate therapeutic strategy in each patient with colorectal liver metastases.

[Partial external biliary diversion: a therapeutic alternative for Alagille syndrome. First case in Argentina]. / Derivación biliar externa parcial: alternativa terapéutica en el síndrome de Alagille. Primer caso en la Argentina.

BACKGROUND: Alagille 's syndrome is the main syndromic chronic intrahepatic cholestasis characterized by hypoplasia of the intrahepatic bile ducts. It is a multisystem disorder of autosomal dominant inheritance with involvement of multiple organs. Usually it becomes apparent in the neonatal period, presenting as subclinical cases or severe degrees of the disease with the consequent development of liver cirrhosis and subsequent liver failure associated with multiple abnormalities: defects in the vertebral arches, typical facies, pulmonary stenosis, mental retardation and hypogonadism. OBJECTIVE: To present the first case of partial external biliary diversion in Argentina, showing the surgical technique and the improvement in the quality of life, as an alternative to be considered in patients with Alagille's syndrome before the development of cirrhosis. RESULTS: It has been shown that partial external biliary diversion can stop the process of liver fibrogenesis, halting the progression of the disease and avoiding the need for transplantation in some types of intrahepatic cholestasis when cirrhosis has not been established. DISCUSSION: This surgical technique can improve the quality of life and morbidity associated with hypercholesterolemia in patients with Alagille's syndrome, delaying and maybe avoiding the need for liver transplantation.

Bile duct cyst type V (Caroli's disease): surgical strategy and results.

BACKGROUND: Caroli's disease (CD) is a benign congenital disorder characterized by segmental cystic dilatation of the intrahepatic biliary ducts. Therapeutic strategy includes medical treatment, percutaneous, endoscopic or surgical drainage of the affected bile ducts, liver resection or transplantation. The aim of this study was to analyse the results and long-term follow-up of a consecutive series of patients who underwent surgical treatment for CD. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between 1995 and 2005, 10 patients were surgically treated for CD. Variables evaluated were: age, gender, clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures, percutaneous and surgical treatments, histopathological analysis and outcome. RESULTS: The average age of the patients was 45.8 years. Recurrent cholangitis was the main clinical manifestation (70%). In unilateral CD a liver resection was performed in nine patients (left lateral sectionectomy in seven, left hepatectomy in one and right hepatectomy in one). In bilateral disease a cholecystectomy, duct exploration, hepaticojejunostomy and liver biopsy of both lobes were performed. Average follow-up was 60 months. All the patients are alive and free of symptoms without recurrence in the remnant liver. DISCUSSION: Liver resection is the preferred therapeutic option for unilateral CD, demonstrating good results in long-term follow-up. In bilateral disease, hepaticojejunostomy could be considered as an alternative or a previous step to liver transplantation, which still remains the ultimate option.

Bipartición hepática: resultados iniciales / Split liver transplantation

Introducción: Debido a la escasez de donantes cadavéricos se han desarrollado técnicas quirúrgicas para aumentar el pool de donantes. Una de ellas es la bipartición hepática (BH). Objetivo: Analizar los resultados y evolución alejada de una serie de BH. Lugar: Hospitales públicos. Material y Método: Entre enero de 1992 y julio de 2004 fueron realizados 613 trasplantes hepáticos. De ellos 35 (5,7 por ciento) fueron realizados con una BH. Se analizan complicaciones quirúrgicas, supervivencia del injerto y del paciente al año y los 5 años. Los resultados se agrupan según el injerto utilizado (seccionectomía lateral izquierda, SLI y triseccionectomía derecha, TSD). Resultados: 22 injertos fueron implantados en pacientes pediátricos y 13 en adultos. Se utilizaron 15 TSD y 20 SLI. TSD: Tres pacientes (20 por ciento) presentaron necrosis del segmento 4, dos (13,3 por ciento) fueron reoperados por hemoperitoneo. Existieron 2 trombosis arteriales (13,3 por ciento). Cuatro pacientes (26,6 por ciento) presentaron complicaciones biliares, 2 fístulas y 2 estenosis no anastomóticas. El seguimiento medio fue 45 meses. La supervivencia actuarial al año del injerto y paciente fue 66 por ciento y 73 por ciento y a los 5 años 55 por ciento y 61 por ciento. SLI: Tres pacientes fueron reoperados por hemoperitoneo. Se presentaron 3 trombosis arteriales, 2 portales y 9 (45 por ciento) complicaciones biliares: 7 fístulas y 2 estenosis. El tiempo medio de seguimiento fue 61 meses, con una supervivencia del injerto al año del 65 por ciento y a los 5 años del 59 por ciento. La supervivencia del paciente al año y a los 5 años fue 70 por ciento. Conclusiones: La BH es posible y se puede realizar con un índice aceptable de complicaciones similares a las del trasplante con hígado entero y donante vivo

Bipartición hepática: resultados iniciales / Split liver transplantation

Introducción: Debido a la escasez de donantes cadavéricos se han desarrollado técnicas quirúrgicas para aumentar el pool de donantes. Una de ellas es la bipartición hepática (BH). Objetivo: Analizar los resultados y evolución alejada de una serie de BH. Lugar: Hospitales públicos. Material y Método: Entre enero de 1992 y julio de 2004 fueron realizados 613 trasplantes hepáticos. De ellos 35 (5,7 por ciento) fueron realizados con una BH. Se analizan complicaciones quirúrgicas, supervivencia del injerto y del paciente al año y los 5 años. Los resultados se agrupan según el injerto utilizado (seccionectomía lateral izquierda, SLI y triseccionectomía derecha, TSD). Resultados: 22 injertos fueron implantados en pacientes pediátricos y 13 en adultos. Se utilizaron 15 TSD y 20 SLI. TSD: Tres pacientes (20 por ciento) presentaron necrosis del segmento 4, dos (13,3 por ciento) fueron reoperados por hemoperitoneo. Existieron 2 trombosis arteriales (13,3 por ciento). Cuatro pacientes (26,6 por ciento) presentaron complicaciones biliares, 2 fístulas y 2 estenosis no anastomóticas. El seguimiento medio fue 45 meses. La supervivencia actuarial al año del injerto y paciente fue 66 por ciento y 73 por ciento y a los 5 años 55 por ciento y 61 por ciento. SLI: Tres pacientes fueron reoperados por hemoperitoneo. Se presentaron 3 trombosis arteriales, 2 portales y 9 (45 por ciento) complicaciones biliares: 7 fístulas y 2 estenosis. El tiempo medio de seguimiento fue 61 meses, con una supervivencia del injerto al año del 65 por ciento y a los 5 años del 59 por ciento. La supervivencia del paciente al año y a los 5 años fue 70 por ciento. Conclusiones: La BH es posible y se puede realizar con un índice aceptable de complicaciones similares a las del trasplante con hígado entero y donante vivo (AU)