Liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with clinically significant portal hypertension.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Liver resection (LR) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) defined as a hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) ≥10 mmHg is not encouraged. Here, we reappraised the outcomes of patients with cirrhosis and CSPH who underwent LR for HCC in highly specialised liver centres. METHODS: This was a retrospective multicentre study from 1999 to 2019. Predictors for postoperative liver decompensation and textbook outcomes were identified. RESULTS: In total, 79 patients with a median age of 65 years were included. The Child-Pugh grade was A in 99% of patients, and the median model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score was 8. The median HVPG was 12 mmHg. Major hepatectomies and laparoscopies were performed in 28% and 34% of patients, respectively. Ninety-day mortality and severe morbidity rates were 6% and 27%, respectively. Postoperative and persistent liver decompensation occurred in 35% and 10% of patients at 3 months. Predictors of liver decompensation included increased preoperative HVPG (p = 0.004), increased serum total bilirubin (p = 0.02), and open approach (p = 0.03). Of the patients, 34% achieved a textbook outcome, of which the laparoscopic approach was the sole predictor (p = 0.004). The 5-year overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates were 55% and 43%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with cirrhosis, HCC and HVPG ≥10 mmHg can undergo LR with acceptable mortality, morbidity, and liver decompensation rates. The laparoscopic approach was the sole predictor of a textbook outcome. LAY SUMMARY: Patients with cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and clinically significant portal hypertension (defined as a hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥10 mmHg) can undergo resection with acceptable mortality, morbidity, liver decompensation rates, and a textbook outcome. These results can be achieved in selected patients with preserved liver function, good general status, and sufficient remnant liver volume.

Stratification of Major Hepatectomies According to Their Outcome: Analysis of 2212 Consecutive Open Resections in Patients Without Cirrhosis.

OBJECTIVE: To stratify major hepatectomies (MajHs) according to their outcomes. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: MajHs are associated with non-negligible operative risks, but they include a wide range of procedures. Detailed depiction of the outcomes of different MajHs is the basis for a new classification of liver resections. METHODS: We retrospectively considered patients that underwent hepatectomy in 17 high-volume centers. Patients with an associated digestive/biliary resection were excluded. We analyzed open MajHs in non-cirrhotic patients. MajHs were classified according to the Brisbane nomenclature. Right hepatectomies (RHs) were reference standards. Outcomes were adjusted for potential confounders, including indication, liver function, preoperative portal vein embolization, and enrolling center. RESULTS: We analyzed a series of 2212 patients. In comparison with RH, left hepatectomy had lower mortality [0.6% vs 2.2%, odds ratio (OR) = 0.25], severe morbidity (11.7% vs 14.4%, OR = 0.62), and liver failure rates (2.1% vs 11.6%, OR = 0.16). Left hepatectomy+Sg1 and mesohepatectomy+/-Sg1 had outcomes similar to RH, except for higher bile leak rate (31.3% and 13.5% vs 6.7%, OR = 4.36 and OR = 2.29). RH + Sg1 had slightly worse outcomes than RH. Right and left trisectionectomies had higher mortality (5.0% and 7.3% vs 2.2%, OR = 2.07 and OR = 2.71) and liver failure rates than RH (19.0% and 22.0% vs 11.6%, OR = 2.03 and OR = 2.21). Left trisectionectomy had even higher severe morbidity (25.6% vs 14.4%, OR = 2.07) and bile leak rates (14.6% vs 6.7%, OR = 2.31). CONCLUSIONS: The term "major hepatectomy" includes resections having heterogeneous outcome. Different MajHs can be stratified according to their mortality, severe morbidity, liver failure, and bile leak rates.

Correlation of RECIST, Computed Tomography Morphological Response, and Pathological Regression in Hepatic Metastasis Secondary to Colorectal Cancer: The AVAMET Study.

Background: The prospective phase IV AVAMET study was undertaken to correlate response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST)-defined response rates with computed tomography-based morphological criteria (CTMC) and pathological response after liver resection of colorectal cancer metastases. Methods: Eligible patients were aged ≥18 years, with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status 0/1 and histologically-confirmed colon or rectal adenocarcinoma with measurable liver metastases. Preoperative treatment was bevacizumab (7.5 mg on day 1) + XELOX (oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2, capecitabine 1000 mg/m2 bid on days 1-14 q3w). After three cycles, response was evaluated by a multidisciplinary team. Patients who were progression-free and metastasectomy candidates received one cycle of XELOX before undergoing surgery 3-5 weeks later, followed by four cycles of bevacizumab + XELOX. Results: A total of 83 patients entered the study; 68 were eligible for RECIST, 67 for CTMC, and 51 for pathological response evaluation. Of these patients, 49% had a complete or partial RECIST response, 91% had an optimal or incomplete CTMC response, and 81% had a complete or major pathological response. CTMC response predicted 37 of 41 pathological responses versus 23 of 41 responses predicted using RECIST (p = 0.008). Kappa coefficients indicated a lack of correlation between the results of RECIST and morphological responses and between morphological and pathological response rates. Conclusion: CTMC may represent a better marker of pathological response to bevacizumab + XELOX than RECIST in patients with potentially-resectable CRC liver metastases.

Laparoscopic Liver Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Child-Pugh A Patients With and Without Portal Hypertension: A Multicentre Study.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) may improve outcomes for cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and portal hypertension (PHT). The aim of this study was to compare the short-term outcomes after LLR for HCC in cirrhotic patients with and without PHT. METHODS: This multicentric study included 96 HCC patients who underwent LLR. Clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) was defined by a hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥10 mmHg. Short-term outcomes and liver-specific complications including post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF), ascites and encephalopathy were compared between patients with and without CSPH. RESULTS: Thirty-one patients (32%) had CSPH. The CSPH group had higher post-operative morbidity (52% vs. 15%; p < 0.001), PHLF (10% vs. 0%; p = 0.03) and encephalopathy (10% vs. 0%; p = 0.03). There was no difference in terms of post-operative ascites between the two groups (CSPH: 16% vs. no CPSH: 8%, p = 0.28). The length of stay was longer in patients with CSPH than in those without CSPH (6 vs. 4 days; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The laparoscopic approach is feasible in selected HCC patients with CSPH, at the price of significant increases in liver-specific complications and length of stay.

Impact on Oncological Outcomes and Intent-to-Treat Survival of Resection Margin for Transplantable Hepatocellular Carcinoma in All-Comers and in Patients with Cirrhosis: A Multicenter Study.

BACKGROUND: The outcomes of liver resection (LR) with a narrow margin in patients with transplantable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have not been studied. The aim was to assess whether narrow margin following up-front LR impacts the incidence, timing, pattern, and transplantability of tumor recurrence in patients with initially transplantable HCC. METHODS: All initially transplantable HCC patients undergoing hepatectomy with either narrow (<10 mm) or wide (≥10 mm) margins from 2007 to 2016 at four Western university centers were compared in terms of recurrence, transplantability of recurrence, recurrence-free survival (RFS), and intention-to-treat overall survival (ITT-OS). Independent predictors of non-transplantability of recurrence were assessed. RESULTS: This study included 187 patients (narrow group, n = 107 vs. wide group, n = 80). Recurrence was significantly more frequent in the narrow margin group (44% vs. 26%; p = 0.01) with a shorter RFS (p = 0.03). The transplantability of recurrence and ITT-OS were, however, not different between the two groups. The presence of satellite nodules on the resected specimens emerged as the sole independent predictor of non-transplantability of tumor recurrence. The stratification of the analysis according to the presence of cirrhosis achieved essentially the same results as in the whole study population. CONCLUSIONS: Narrow margin was associated with a higher tumor recurrence rate and a shorter RFS for patients with initially transplantable HCC. However, transplantability of recurrence and long-term ITT-OS were not impaired.

Resultados de la aplicación de un programa Enhanced Recovery (ERP) en resecciones hepáticas abiertas / Results of the implementation of an enhanced recovery program (ERP) in open liver resections

Antecedentes: los programas fast-track en cirugía hepática muestran ventajas con respecto al manejo perioperatorio tradicional al favorecer principalmente una disminución de la estancia hospitalaria y, por ende, de los costos hospitalarios. Material y métodos: en un estudio observacional y descriptivo se analizan resecciones hepáticas abiertas dentro de un programa de recuperación rápida, haciendo especial hincapié en la adherencia a este, la recuperación total de los enfermos, la morbilidad y la estancia hospitalaria. Resultados: se realizaron 32 hepatectomías en 30 pacientes, 27 de los cuales fueron oncológicos. La adherencia al programa utilizado fue del 78,1% y la recuperación total al momento del alta del 75%. La morbilidad fue del 12,5% y las complicaciones fueron de baja complejidad, aunque 2 pacientes necesitaron reingresar. La estancia hospitalaria tuvo una media de 3,4 días y, sumando los reingresos, de 3,6 días. Conclusión: la aplicación de un ERP en cirugía hepática no solo es factible sino trae aparejada como principal beneficio una disminución en la estancia hospitalaria y, por ende, de los costos. Pero no estamos convencidos de que un ERP mejore la morbilidad de los pacientes.

Background: Background: Fast-track programs in liver surgery offer advantages over traditional perioperative management, particularly in terms of reducing length of hospital stay and hospital costs. Material and methods: We conducted an observational and descriptive analysis of patients undergoing open liver resections as part of an enhanced recovery program. Adherence to the program, full recovery of the patients, complications and length of hospital stay were assessed. Results: A total of 32 liver resections were performed in 30 patients, 27 with cancer. The adherence to the program was 78.1% and full recovery on discharge was 75%. The incidence of complications was 12.5%; most of them were not severe but two patients required rehospitalization. Mean length of hospital stay was 3.4 days and 3.6 days when readmissions were considered. Conclusion: The implementation of an ERP after liver resections is feasible and offers advantages in terms of reducing length of hospital stay and hospital costs. We do not think that ERP improves morbidity in these patients.

Minor Hepatectomies: Focusing a Blurred Picture: Analysis of the Outcome of 4471 Open Resections in Patients Without Cirrhosis.

OBJECTIVE: To elucidate minor hepatectomy (MiH) outcomes. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Liver surgery has moved toward a parenchyma-sparing approach, favoring MiHs over major resections. MiHs encompass a wide range of procedures. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated consecutive patients who underwent open liver resections in 17 high-volume centers. EXCLUSION CRITERIA: cirrhosis and associated digestive/biliary resections. Resections were classified as (Brisbane nomenclature): limited resections (LR); (mono)segmentectomies/bisegmentectomies (Segm/Bisegm); right anterior and right posterior sectionectomies (RightAnteriorSect/RightPosteriorSect). Additionally, we defined: complex LRs (ComplexLR = LRs with exposed vessels); postero-superior segmentectomies (PosteroSuperiorSegm = segment (Sg)7, Sg8, and Sg7+Sg8 segmentectomies); and complex core hepatectomies (ComplexCoreHeps = Sg1 segmentectomies and combined resections of Sg4s+Sg8+Sg1). Left lateral sectionectomies (LLSs, n = 442) and right hepatectomies (RHs, n = 1042) were reference standards. Outcomes were adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS: Four thousand four hundred seventy-one MiHs were analyzed. Compared with RHs, MiHs had lower 90-day mortality (0.5%/2.2%), severe morbidity (8.6%/14.4%), and liver failure rates (2.4%/11.6%, P < 0.001), but similar bile leak rates. LR and LLS had similar outcomes. ComplexLR and Segm/Bisegm of anterolateral segments had higher bile leak rates than LLS rates (OR = 2.35 and OR = 3.24), but similar severe morbidity rates. ComplexCoreHeps had higher bile leak rates than RH rates (OR = 1.94); the severe morbidity rate approached that of RH. PosteroSuperiorSegm, RightAnteriorSect, and RightPosteriorSect had severe morbidity and bile leak rates similar to RH rates. MiHs had low liver failure rates, except RightAnteriorSect (vs LLS OR = 4.02). CONCLUSIONS: MiHs had heterogeneous outcomes. Mortality was low, but MiHs could be stratified according to severe morbidity, bile leak, and liver failure rates. Some MiHs had postoperative outcomes similar to RH.

[Metástasis hepáticas sincrónicas de cáncer colorrectal. ¿Resección simultánea o diferida?] / Synchronous liver metastases from colorectal origin. Simultaneous or staged resection?

INTRODUCCIÓN: El 20-40% de las metástasis hepáticas de origen colorrectal son de tipo sincrónico. Actualmente existen tres estrategias quirúrgicas; dos de ellas proponen resecciones diferidas, y la otra, la resección simultánea. OBJETIVO: evaluar los resultados a corto y largo plazo de las resecciones simultáneas. MÉTODO: Evaluamos 212 metástasis hepáticas sincrónicas resecadas en dos centros y comparamos las intervenidas de forma simultánea con aquellas de manera diferida. Evaluamos las características demográficas, las resecciones hepáticas y las características de las metástasis. También evaluamos la morbimortalidad. RESULTADOS: Fueron resecados de manera simultánea con el tumor primario 63 pacientes, y no hubo diferencias significativas en las características demográficas. Hubo más resecciones mayores (p = 0.005) en el grupo de las diferidas. La morbimortalidad fue comparable. La insuficiencia hepática (p = 0.037) fue mayor en el grupo de las diferidas. La morbilidad fue del 33.2% en las diferidas y del 10.1% en las simultáneas (p = 0.256). La mortalidad fue del 2.83% en las diferidas y del 0.94% en las simultáneas (p = 0.508). CONCLUSIÓN: Los resultados a corto y largo plazo en ambos grupos son similares. Queda el interrogante de si la necesidad de una hepatectomía mayor favorecería la elección de un tratamiento diferido. INTRODUCTION: Between 20 and 40% of liver metastases from colorectal tumor are synchronous. Three types of surgical approaches are proposed; two of them propose a deferred resection and the other, simultaneous resection. The aim of this analysis is to assess the short- and long-term outcomes of simultaneous resections. METHOD: 212 synchronous liver metastases resected in two centers were evaluated. Comparison between those resected simultaneously with those that were in a deferred way was made. Demographics, liver resections and metastatic characteristics were evaluated. Morbidity and mortality of both alternatives are also evaluated. RESULTS: 63 patients were resected simultaneously with the primary tumor, there were no significant differences in demographic characteristics. There was a greater number of major resections (p = 0.005) in the deferred group. Morbidity and mortality was comparable in both groups. Liver failure (p = 0.037) was higher in the deferred group. Morbidity was 33.2% in the deferred and 10.1% for the simultaneous (p = 0.256). Mortality rate was 2.83% in the deferred and 0.94% in the simultaneous group (p = 0.508). CONCLUSION: Short and long-term outcomes for both groups are similar. A question remains to be answered: the need of a major hepatectomy will favor the election of a deferred treatment?

[Resultados a corto y largo plazo de las rehepatectomías como parte del tratamiento multimodal de las metástasis de origen colorrectal. Un estudio biinstitucional]. / Short and long-term outcomes of the re-hepatectomies as part of multi-modal treatment of hepatic metastases from colo-rectal origin. Bi-institutional study.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Un alto porcentaje de pacientes que reciben una hepatectomía por metástasis de cáncer colorrectal presentarán recidiva hepática, y en algunas será posible una nueva resección. La utilidad de las hepatectomías repetidas continúa siendo discutida. OBJETIVO: Evaluar los resultados obtenidos a corto y largo plazo. MÉTODO: Fueron analizadas 68 rehepatectomías de dos instituciones. Se analizaron datos demográficos y características de la enfermedad metastásica y de las resecciones hepáticas. Los tipos de complicaciones y la morbimortalidad también fueron analizados, al igual que la supervivencia y el tiempo libre de enfermedad. Se evaluaron algunos de los factores de mal pronóstico mencionados en la literatura. RESULTADOS: El análisis de los datos de corto plazo no mostró diferencias significativas entre los pacientes de primera hepatectomía y de hepatectomías repetidas, a excepción del porcentaje de fístulas biliares posoperatorias (p = 0.001). La supervivencia a 1 año es similar, mientras que a 3 y 5 años mostró diferencias significativas (p = 0.024 y 0.004, respectivamente). Los factores de mal pronóstico referidos en la literatura no fueron representativos en esta serie. CONCLUSIÓN: Los resultados a corto plazo de los pacientes con rehepatectomía son similares a los de aquellos resecados una vez. Los resultados a largo plazo de las rehepatectomías son inferiores a otros publicados. INTRODUCTION: A high percentage of patients undergoing hepatectomy for metastatic colorectal liver disease will have a recurrence. Of these, some can be subject to a new resection. The usefulness of repeated hepatectomy remains controversial. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of short and long-term outcomes in repeated hepatectomies. METHODS: They were re-analyzed 68 repeated hepatectomies from two institutions. Demographics, characteristics of metastatic disease and hepatic resections were analyzed. Types of complications, morbidity and mortality were also analyzed as survival and disease-free time. Some of the factors of poor prognosis mentioned in the literature were evaluated. RESULTS: The analysis of short-term data showed no statistically significant differences between patients with first and repeated hepatectomy, except the percentage of postoperative biliary leakage (p = 0.001). The 1-year survival was similar while 3 and 5 years survival showed significant differences (p = 0.024 and 0.004, respectively). The factors of poor prognosis referred in the literature were not representative in this series. CONCLUSION: The short-term results of repeated hepatectomy are similar to those resected once. Long term result are inferior to other published series.

Prospective evaluation of the International Study Group for Liver Surgery definition of post hepatectomy liver failure after liver resection: an international multicentre study.

BACKGROUND: The International Study Group for Liver Surgery (ISGLS) definition of post hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) was developed to be consistent, widely applicable, and to include severity stratification. This international multicentre collaborative study aimed to prospectively validate the ISGLS definition of PHLF. METHODS: 11 HPB centres from 7 countries developed a standardised reporting form. Prospectively acquired anonymised data on liver resections performed between 01 July 2010 and 30 June 2011 was collected. A multivariate analysis was undertaken of clinically important variables. RESULTS: Of the 949 patients included, 86 (9%) met PHLF requirements. On multivariate analyses, age ≥70 years, pre-operative chemotherapy, steatosis, resection of >3 segments, vascular reconstruction and intraoperative blood loss >300 ml significantly increased the risk of PHLF. Receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis of INR and serum bilirubin relationship with PHLF demonstrated post-operative day 3 and 5 INR performed equally in predicting PHLF, and day 5 bilirubin was the strongest predictor of PHLF. Combining ISGLS grades B and C groups resulted in a high sensitivity for predicting mortality compared to the 50-50 rule and Peak bilirubin >7 mg/dl. CONCLUSIONS: The ISGLS definition performed well in this prospective validation study, and may be the optimal definition for PHLF in future research to allow for comparability of data.

Impact of associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) on growth of colorectal liver metastases.

BACKGROUND: Associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy induces an unprecedented liver hypertrophy and enables resection of otherwise unresectable liver tumors. The effect of associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy on tumor proliferation, however, remains a concern. This study investigated the impact of associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy on growth of colorectal metastases in mice and in humans. METHODS: The effect of associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy and 90% portal vein ligation on colorectal liver and lung metastases was investigated in mice. In vivo tumor progression was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging, histology, and survival experiments. The effects of associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy, portal vein ligation, and control sera on cultures of several colorectal cancer cell lines (MC38 and CT26) were tested in vitro. Additionally, the international associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy registry enabled us to identify patients with remaining tumor in the future liver remnant after associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy stage 1. RESULTS: Two and 3 weeks after associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy stage 1, portal vein ligation, or sham surgery, liver magnetic resonance images showed similar numbers (P=.14/0.82), sizes (P=.45/0.98), and growth kinetics (P=.58/0.68) of intrahepatic tumor. Tumor growth was not different between the associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy and portal vein ligation groups after completion of stage 2. Median survival after tumor cell injection was similar after sham surgery (36 days; 95% confidence interval; 27-57 days), completion of associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (42 days; 95% confidence interval; 35-49 days), and portal vein ligation (39 days; 95% confidence interval; 34-43 days, P=.237). Progression of pulmonary metastases and in vitro cell proliferation were comparable among groups. Observations in humans failed to identify any accelerated tumor growth in the future liver remnant within the regenerative phase after associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy stage 1. CONCLUSION: The accelerated regeneration process associated with associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy does not appear to enhance growth of colorectal metastases.

Evolution of laparoscopic surgery in a high volume hepatobiliary unit: 150 consecutive pure laparoscopic hepatectomies. / Evolución de la cirugía laparoscópica en una unidad hepatobiliar de alto volumen: 150 hepatectomías laparoscópicas consecutivas.

INTRODUCTION: Compared to other surgical areas, laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has not been widely implemented and currently less than 20% of hepatectomies are performed laparoscopically worldwide. The aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility, and the ratio of implementation of LLR in our department. METHODS: We analyzed a prospectively maintained database of 749 liver resections performed during the last 10-year period in a single centre. RESULTS: A total of 150 (20%) consecutive pure LLR were performed between 2005 and 2015. In 87% of patients the indication was the presence ofprimary or metastatic liver malignancy. We performed 30 major hepatectomies (20%) and (80%) were minor resections, performed in all liver segments. Twelve patients were operated twice and 2 patients underwent a third LLR. The proportion of LLR increased from 12% in 2011 to 62% in the last year. Conversion rate was 9%. Overall morbidity rate was 36% but only one third were classified as severe. The 90-day mortality rate was 1%. Median hospital stay was 4 days and the rate of readmissions was 6%. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of LLR has been fast with morbidity and mortality comparable to other published series. In the last 2 years more than half of the hepatectomies are performed laparoscopically in our centre.

Evolución de la cirugía laparoscópica en una unidad hepatobiliar de alto volumen: 150 hepatectomías laparoscópicas consecutivas / Evolution of laparoscopic surgery in a high volume hepatobiliary unit: 150 consecutive pure laparoscopic hepatectomies

Introducción: En comparación con otras áreas quirúrgicas, la resección hepática laparoscópica (RHL) no se ha aplicado de forma generalizada y en la actualidad menos del 20% de las hepatectomías se realiza por vía laparoscópica en todo el mundo. El objetivo de nuestro estudio fue evaluar la aplicabilidad y la proporción de RHL en nuestro departamento. Métodos Los datos de morbimortalidad y supervivencia se extrajeron de una base de datos prospectiva con 749 resecciones hepáticas realizadas durante un período de 10 años en un solo centro. Resultados: Entre 2005 y 2015 se realizaron 150 RHL. En el 87% de los pacientes la indicación fue la presencia de tumores hepáticos primarios o metastásicos. Se realizaron 30 hepatectomías mayores (20%) y el 80% fueron resecciones menores, realizadas en todos los segmentos del hígado. Doce pacientes fueron operados 2veces y 2 pacientes tuvieron una tercera RHL. La proporción de RHL aumentó del 12% en 2011 al 62% en el último año. La tasa de conversión fue del 9%. En general, la tasa de morbilidad fue del 36%, pero solo 1/3 se clasificaron como graves. La tasa de mortalidad a los 90 días fue del 1%. La mediana de estancia fue de 4 días y la tasa de reingresos fue del 6%. Conclusiones: La aplicación de RHL ha sido rápida y progresiva, con resultados de morbimortalidad comparables a las de las series publicadas en la literatura. En los últimos 2 años más de la mitad de las hepatectomías se realiza por vía laparoscópica en nuestro centro (AU)

Introduction: Compared to other surgical areas, laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has not been widely implemented and currently less than 20% of hepatectomies are performed laparoscopically worldwide. The aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility, and the ratio of implementation of LLR in our department. Methods: We analyzed a prospectively maintained database of 749 liver resections performed during the last 10-year period in a single centre. Results: A total of 150 (20%) consecutive pure LLR were performed between 2005 and 2015. In 87% of patients the indication was the presence ofprimary or metastatic liver malignancy. We performed 30 major hepatectomies (20%) and (80%) were minor resections, performed in all liver segments. Twelve patients were operated twice and 2 patients underwent a third LLR. The proportion of LLR increased from 12% in 2011 to 62% in the last year. Conversion rate was 9%. Overall morbidity rate was 36% but only one third were classified as severe. The 90-day mortality rate was 1%. Median hospital stay was 4 days and the rate of readmissions was 6%. Conclusions: The implementation of LLR has been fast with morbidity and mortality comparable to other published series. In the last 2 years more than half of the hepatectomies are performed laparoscopically in our centre (AU)

Temporary Intraoperative Porto-Caval Shunts in Piggy-Back Liver Transplantation Reduce Intraoperative Blood Loss and Improve Postoperative Transaminases and Renal Function: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The value of temporary intraoperative porto-caval shunts (TPCS) in cava-sparing liver transplantation is discussed controversially. Aim of this meta-analysis was to analyze the impact of temporary intraoperative porto-caval shunts on liver injury, primary non-function, time of surgery, transfusion of blood products and length of hospital stay in cava-sparing liver transplantation. METHODS: A systematic search of MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO retrieved a total of 909 articles, of which six articles were included. The combined effect size and 95 % confidence interval were calculated for each outcome by applying the inverse variance weighting method. Tests for heterogeneity (I 2) were also utilized. RESULTS: Usage of a TPCS was associated with significantly decreased AST values, significantly fewer transfusions of packed red blood cells and improved postoperative renal function. There were no statistically significant differences in primary graft non-function, length of hospital stay or duration of surgery. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis found that temporary intraoperative porto-caval shunts in cava-sparing liver transplantation reduce blood loss as well as hepatic injury and enhance postoperative renal function without prolonging operative time. Randomized controlled trials investigating the use of temporary intraoperative porto-caval shunts are needed to confirm these findings.

Treatment sequence of synchronously (liver) metastasized colon cancer.

No standards for staging, systemic therapy or the timing of an operation are defined for patients newly diagnosed with synchronous metastases and a primary in the colon. An expert group of radiologists, medical, radiation and surgical oncologists therefore came together to discuss staging and treatment sequence for these patients and came up with a recommendation based on current evidence of potential therapeutic options. The discussion was organized to debate recommendations centred on 5 topics and therefore the position paper is built upon these titles and their subtitles.

Improved Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Diagnosis in Jaundiced and Non-Jaundiced Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Patients through the Combination of Routine Clinical Markers Associated to Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Pathophysiology.

BACKGROUND: There is still no reliable biomarker for the diagnosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) is a tumor marker only recommended for pancreatic adenocarcinoma follow-up. One of the clinical problems lies in distinguishing between this cancer and other benign pancreatic diseases such as chronic pancreatitis. In this study we will assess the value of panels of serum molecules related to pancreatic cancer physiopathology to determine whether alone or in combination could help to discriminate between these two pathologies. METHODS: CA 19-9, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), C-reactive protein, albumin, insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and IGF binding protein-3 were measured using routine clinical analyzers in a cohort of 47 pancreatic adenocarcinoma, 20 chronic pancreatitis and 15 healthy controls. RESULTS: The combination of CA 19-9, IGF-1 and albumin resulted in a combined area under the curve (AUC) of 0.959 with 93.6% sensitivity and 95% specificity, much higher than CA 19-9 alone. An algorithm was defined to classify the patients as chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer with the above specificity and sensitivity. In an independent validation group of 20 pancreatic adenocarcinoma and 13 chronic pancreatitis patients, the combination of the four molecules classified correctly all pancreatic adenocarcinoma and 12 out of 13 chronic pancreatitis patients. CONCLUSIONS: Although this panel of markers should be validated in larger cohorts, the high sensitivity and specificity values and the convenience to measure these parameters in clinical laboratories shows great promise for improving pancreatic adenocarcinoma diagnosis.

Increased α1-3 fucosylation of α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) in pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer (PDAC) lacks reliable diagnostic biomarkers and the search for new biomarkers represents an important challenge. Previous results looking at a small cohort of patients showed an increase in α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) fucosylation in advanced PDAC using N-glycan sequencing. Here, we have analysed AGP glycoforms in a larger cohort using several analytical techniques including mass spectrometry (MS), capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and enzyme-linked lectin assays (ELLAs) for determining AGP glycoforms which could be PDAC associated. AGP from 31 serum samples, including healthy controls (HC), chronic pancreatitis (ChrP) and PDAC patients, was purified by immunoaffinity chromatography. Stable isotope labelling of AGP released N-glycans and their analysis by zwitterionic hydrophilic interaction capillary liquid chromatography electrospray MS (µZIC-HILIC-ESI-MS) showed an increase in AGP fucosylated glycoforms in PDAC compared to ChrP and HC. By CZE-UV analysis, relative concentrations of some of the AGP isoforms were found significantly different compared to those in PDAC and HC. Finally, ELLAs using Aleuria aurantia lectin displayed a significant increase in AGP fucosylation, before and after AGP neuraminidase treatment, in advanced PDAC compared to ChrP and HC, respectively. Altogether, these results indicate that α1-3 fucosylated glycoforms of AGP are increased in PDAC and could be potentially regarded as a PDAC biomarker.

Managing synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer: a multidisciplinary international consensus.

An international panel of multidisciplinary experts convened to develop recommendations for managing patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and synchronous liver metastases (CRCLM). A modified Delphi method was used. CRCLM is defined as liver metastases detected at or before diagnosis of the primary CRC. Early and late metachronous metastases are defined as those detected ⩽12months and >12months after surgery, respectively. To provide information on potential curability, use of high-quality contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) before chemotherapy is recommended. Magnetic resonance imaging is increasingly being used preoperatively to aid detection of subcentimetric metastases, and alongside CT in difficult situations. To evaluate operability, radiology should provide information on: nodule size and number, segmental localization and relationship with major vessels, response after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, non-tumoral liver condition and anticipated remnant liver volume. Pathological evaluation should assess response to preoperative chemotherapy for both the primary tumour and metastases, and provide information on the tumour, margin size and micrometastases. Although the treatment strategy depends on the clinical scenario, the consensus was for chemotherapy before surgery in most cases. When the primary CRC is asymptomatic, liver surgery may be performed first (reverse approach). When CRCLM are unresectable, the goal of preoperative chemotherapy is to downsize tumours to allow resection. Hepatic resection should not be denied to patients with stable disease after optimal chemotherapy, provided an adequate liver remnant with inflow and outflow preservation remains. All patients with synchronous CRCLM should be evaluated by a hepatobiliary multidisciplinary team.

Tratamiento laparoscópico de la hidatidosis hepática: experiencia inicial / Laparoscopic approach to liver hydatidosis: Initial experience

INTRODUCCIÓN: La hidatidosis hepática es una enfermedad que se presenta frecuentemente en algunas provincias de Argentina. El tratamiento quirúrgico sigue siendo aún el que ofrece los mejores resultados. El tratamiento laparoscópico es controvertido debido a la poca experiencia con esta técnica. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la factibilidad y eficacia del tratamiento laparoscópico de esta enfermedad y presentar la experiencia obtenida en un centro de Argentina. Material y métodos Se evaluó de manera prospectiva a los pacientes con hidatidosis hepática no complicada mayores de 15 años cuyos quistes tenían las siguientes características: quiste único, menor de 5 cm, situado en segmentos anteriores o de fácil exposición. Fueron evaluados los siguientes datos: sexo, edad, localización del quiste, tratamiento, tiempo operatorio, morbimortalidad y recurrencia. RESULTADOS: Nueve pacientes fueron operados por laparoscopia, los quistes estuvieron localizados en los segmentos III, IV anterior, V y VI. Seis pacientes fueron operados con neumoperitoneo y 3 con un sistema de tracción parietal, en todos ellos el primer gesto fue realizar un PAIR laparoscópico. Se efectuaron 7 procedimientos de Mabit-Lagrot y 2 periquistectomías. El tiempo operatorio medio fue de 89,7 min y la estancia hospitalaria de 52 h. La morbilidad fue de 22,2% y la mortalidad de 0%. La media de seguimiento fue de 19 meses sin recidivas. CONCLUSIÓN: Un mayor número de casos y un seguimiento más prolongado son necesarios para evaluar mejor su eficacia; el abordaje laparoscópico parece ser seguro. Nuestros resultados coinciden con la mayoría de los publicados

INTRODUCTION: Hepatic hydatidosis is a pathology that has a worldwide distribution, and is frequent in some rural areas in Argentina. Surgical treatment still offers the best results. The laparoscopic approach is controversial because of lack of experience with this technique. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the laparoscopic approach in this pathology and to present the experience obtained in a medical center in Argentina. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We prospectively evaluated patients with a diagnosis of non complicated hydatidosis, over 15 years of age whose cyst had the following characteristics: unique cyst, size less than 5 centimeters, located in the anterior segments or easy access. Analyzed data were: sex, age, cyst localization, treatment, operating time, morbidity and mortality and recurrence. RESULTS: Nine patients were operated using a laparoscopic approach. The cysts were localized in the segments III, IV, V and VI. Six patients were operated with pneumoperitoneum and 3 with a parietal traction device, in all the patients the first approach was a laparoscopic PAIR (punction, aspiration, injection and reaspiration). Seven Mabit-Lagrot procedures were performed and 2pericystectomies. The operative time was a mean of 89.7 min and a hospital stay of 52 h. The morbidity was 22.2% and the mortality was 0%. Mean follow-up of 19 months showed no recurrences. CONCLUSION: A higher number of patients and a longer follow-up are necessary to evaluate the efficacy of approach; the laparoscopic approach seems to be safe. Our results coincide with the majority of other publications