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.

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.

Acute Gastric Dilation of the Post-Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Remnant Stomach: Image-Guided Surgery Approach.

Background: Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity and its associated morbidities. They are safe surgeries, their general complication rate is 0%-10%. However, acute gastric dilation is an unusual complication. It requires rapid diagnosis and treatment to avoid major complications. Image-guided surgery represents a group of minimally invasive procedures. Acute gastric dilation is a complication that can benefit from the application of this type of procedure. We present a report of patients with acute gastric dilation of the remnant as a complication after bariatric surgery, its resolution through image-guided surgery, and updating. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of patients who presented postoperative complications after bariatric surgery was carried out. The time period was 10 years. All patients were operated on in a single center by the same surgical team. Results: A total of 3507 bariatric procedures were analyzed (sleeve gastrectomy, 1929-55.1% ± 0.49%; Roux-en-Y gastric bypass [RYGB], 1403-40% ± 0.48%; other techniques, 175-4.9% ± 0.21%). The RYGB branch reported a total of 11 (0.78% ± 0.08%) complications, of which 2 (0.14% ± 0.03%) were reported as acute gastric dilation of the remnant. Conclusions: Acute gastric dilation of the post-RYGB remnant is a rare complication, but it can be serious. It is necessary to have a high suspicion to obtain an early diagnosis and treatment. Percutaneous gastrostomy is an image-guided procedure that can solve the problem temporarily or permanently.

Image-Guided Surgery for Common Bile Duct Stones After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.

Background: The relationship between obesity with common bile duct stone (CBDS) is close and increases after a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Due to the anatomical modification, direct endoscopic access is not always possible. For this reason, image-guided surgery (IGS) by percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) of the common bile duct (CBD) could be a first-line approach for the treatment of post-RYGB choledocholithiasis. The aim of this study was to analyze the feasibility and safety of CBDS treatment after RYGB with IGS. Materials and Methods: We present a descriptive retrospective observational multicentric study on the treatment of choledocholithiasis in patients operated on for RYGB using IGS through a minimally invasive approach by PTBD. The diagnosis of CBDS was made according to the symptoms of the patients, supported by blood tests, and medical images. Treatment was planned in two stages: in the first step, a PTBD was performed, and in the second step the choledocholithiasis was removed. Results: Of a total of 1403 post-RYGB patients, 21 presented choledocholithiasis. Of these, n = 18 were included. Symptoms were reported in n = 15 (8 cholestatic jaundice, 7 cholangitis), whereas n = 3 were asymptomatic. Percutaneous treatment was performed in all these patients, treated with a balloon and stone basket. A hyperamylasemia without pancreatitis was observed in 3 patients. No complications or deaths associated with the procedure were reported. The average hospital stay was 8.6 days. Conclusion: IGS is an interesting option for the treatment CBDS after RYGB. For these patients, PTBD is feasible and safe.

What is the Role of Image-Guided Endovascular Surgery in Postbariatric Surgery Bleeding Complications?

Background: Obesity treatment requires surgical procedures included in bariatric surgery. Bleeding complications are reported in 1%-4%. Image-guided surgery (IGS) includes minimally invasive procedures that have the advantage of less aggression to the patient, fewer complications, and a quick recovery. Endovascular therapy by interventional radiology (IR) is a minimally invasive image-guided procedure widely used in central, peripheral, and splanchnic vascular pathology. Treatment of postoperative bleeding in bariatric surgery can be aided by image-guided endovascular procedures. Objectives: The aim of this study is to carry out an update on the application of IR in bariatric surgery bleeding complications. Bleeding Complications: General rate of postoperative complications in bariatric surgery is 0%-10%. Postoperative bleeding (1%-4%) can be gastrointestinal (endoscopic treatment) or intra-abdominal (surgical treatment/relaparoscopy). In the case of arterial vascular lesions that cannot be resolved either endoscopically or surgically, the option of endovascular treatment with IR should be considered. Conclusions: Endovascular approach through IR and IGS in bleeding complications after bariatric surgery is presented as a valid minimally invasive therapy option in this group of patients.

Image-Guided Surgical e-Learning in the Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Era: What Is Next?

The current unprecedented coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) crisis has accelerated and enhanced e-learning solutions. During the so-called transition phase, efforts were made to reorganize surgical services, reschedule elective surgical procedures, surgical research, academic education, and careers to optimize results. The intention to switch to e-learning medical education is not a new concern. However, the current crisis triggered an alarm to accelerate the transition. Efforts to consider e-learning as a teaching and training method for medical education have proven to be efficient. For image-guided therapies, the challenge requires more effort since surgical skills training is combined with image interpretation training, thus the challenge is to cover quality educational content with a balanced combination of blended courses (online/onsite). Several e-resources are currently available in the surgical scenario; however, further efforts to enhance the current system are required by accelerating the creation of new learning solutions to optimize complex surgical education needs in the current disrupted environment.

Applications of Elastography in Ablation Therapies: An Animal Model In Vivo Study.

Background: Ablation therapies are one of the main local treatments for solid organ tumors. After applying any ablation therapy, few days should be waited to perform an imaging study and analyze the result. In this work, we analyzed the correlation between elastography monitoring after procedure and the result of ablation. The objective of this study is to determine tissue changes in vivo in short term after the application of ablation systems using different diagnostic imaging methods. Materials and Methods: Descriptive study in an in vivo swine model. Different types of ablation therapies (radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation [MWA], and LASER ablation [LA]) were applied in the liver and kidneys. We compared their results by medical image monitoring (ultrasound, computed tomography, elastography) and macroscopic analysis. Results: All the animals survived the procedures. No major intraoperative complications were reported. We determined the characteristics of each procedure. MWA session was faster than the other types of ablation therapies. Regarding ablation area diameters, the largest was achieved with MWA and the smallest with LA. Macroscopically, we observed a central ablation zone, a peripheral ablation zone, and surrounding normal tissue. It was correlated with elastography images. Conclusion: Monitoring of the results of ablation therapies shortly after their application is possible through imaging studies. It allows determining the size of the ablation zone, its characteristics, ruling out complications, and its early results. Elastography could efficiently support this goal.

Mixed reality navigation system for ultrasound-guided percutaneous punctures: a pre-clinical evaluation.

Image-guided surgery is growing in importance with each year. Various imaging technologies are used. The objective of this study was to test whether a new mixed reality navigation system (MRNS) improved percutaneous punctures. This system allowed to clearly visualize the needle tip, needle orientation, US probe and puncture target simultaneously with an interactive 3D computer user inferface. Prospective pre-clinical comparative study. An opaque ballistic gel phantom containing grapes of different sizes was used to simulate puncture targets. The evaluation consisted of ultrasound-guided (US-guided) needle punctures divided into two groups, standard group consisted of punctures using the standard approach (US-guided), and assisted navigation group consisted of punctures using MRNS. Once a puncture was completed, a computed tomography scan was made of the phantom and needle. The distance between the needle tip and the center of the target was measured. The time required to complete the puncture and puncture attempts was also calculated. Total participants was n = 23, between surgeons, medical technicians and radiologist. The participants were divided into novices (without experience, 69.6%) and experienced (with experience > 25 procedures, 30.4%). Each participant performed the puncture of six targets. For puncture completion time, the assisted navigation group was faster (42.1%) compared to the standard group (57.9%) (28.3 s ± 24.7 vs. 39.3 s ± 46.3-p 0.775). The total punctures attempts was lower in the assisted navigation group (35.4%) compared to the standard group (64.6%) (1.0 mm ± 0.2 vs. 1.8 mm ± 1.1-p 0.000). The assisted navigation group was more accurate than the standard group (4.2 ± 2.9 vs. 6.5 ± 4.7-p 0.003), observed in both novices and experienced groups. The use of MRNS improved ultrasound-guided percutaneous punctures parameters compared to the standard approach.

RISK OF BLEEDING COMPLICATIONS IN PERCUTANEOUS BILIARY DRAINAGE: THE PARADOX OF THE NORMAL HEMOSTASIS.

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous biliary drainage is a safe procedure. The risk of bleeding complications is acceptable. Frequently, patients with biliary obstructions usually have coagulation disorders thus increasing risk of bleeding. For this reason, patients should always fit the parameters of hemostasis. AIM: To determine whether the percentage of bleeding complications in percutaneous biliary drainage is greater in adults with corrected hemostasis prior to the procedure regarding those who did not require any. METHODS: : Prospective, observational, transversal, comparative by independent samples (unpaired comparison). Eighty-two patients with percutaneous biliary drainage were included. The average age was 64±16 years (20-92) being 38 male and 44 female. Patients who presented altered hemostasis were corrected and the presence of bleeding complications was evaluated with laboratory and ultrasound. RESULTS: Of 82 patients, 23 needed correction of hemostasis. The approaches performed were: 41 right, 30 left and 11 bilateral. The amount of punctures on average was 3±2. There were 13 (15.8%) bleeding complications, 12 (20%) in uncorrected and only one (4.34%) in the corrected group with no statistical difference. There were no differences in side, number of punctures and type of drainage, but number of passes and the size of drainage on the right side were different. There was no related mortality. CONCLUSION: Bleeding complications in patients requiring hemostasis correction for a percutaneous biliary drainage was not greater than in those who did not require any.

Percutaneous Image-Guided Abdominal Interventions for Leaks and Fistulas Following Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.

BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery offers the only effective long-term weight loss therapy for morbidly obese patients. Numerous studies have demonstrated a mortality and morbidity reduction associated with weight loss surgery, but these interventions also have significant rates of complications. It is important for the bariatric surgeons to recognize these complications and acknowledge which of them can be solved in a minimally invasive manner in order to offer to patients the best treatment. The aim of this article was to review factors and success rates associated with percutaneous image guide abdominal interventions to treat the complications of bariatric surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective descriptive study. Eighty-two patients with complications after bariatric surgery were included. Of these, 56 presented fistula with or without abdominal collection. RESULTS: Of the total patients, 54% are male and 46% female. The average age was 49.4 (range 16-62). Of the 56 cases, 37 (66.1%) occurred after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, and 19 (33.9%) post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The fistula was resolved by percutaneous image guide abdominal interventions in 49 opportunities, of which 67% required only conservative treatment afterwards, the remaining 33% required endoscopic treatment with prostheses, fibrin sealants, and/or clips. No mortality was reported in the series. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous image-guided abdominal interventions play a significant role in the treatment of complications following bariatric surgery. The minimally invasive treatment of fistula after bariatric surgery is safe and effective.

Prospective Comparison of Bleeding Complications Between Right and Left Approaches in Percutaneous Biliary Drainage.

PURPOSE: The present study aimed to determine whether the percentage of bleeding complications differs between the right and the left approaches in percutaneous biliary drainage (PBD) in adult patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a prospective, descriptive, nonrandomized comparative and longitudinal study. We included adult patients over 18 years of age who underwent a PBD. We excluded those with a bilateral PBD for the comparative study. Usually, but not exclusively, we performed the right approach under fluoroscopic guidance and the left one under ultrasound and fluoroscopy. RESULTS: Of 150 cases, 63 were performed using the right approach and 61 with the left; 26 were performed with the bilateral. The right approach faced less dilated biliary ducts and more benign diseases. We experienced 20 bleeding complications (13.33%, confidence intervals of 95%=8.3-19.8), 7 in the bilateral approach, 10 in the right approach, and 3 in the left one. The difference between the right and the left approaches was statistically significant (Fisher P=0,04). No procedures were required to obtain hemostasis, and only one patient (0.66%, confidence intervals of 95%=0.009-3.66) (in the right side) required a red blood cell transfusion. We found no related mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Global bleeding complications are more likely to appear in the right approach in which less dilated biliary ducts and more benign diseases probably contributed to a higher number of needle passes, portal and hepatic vein punctures, and, therefore, to an increase in the risk of bleeding complications. The significant bleeding complication rate was low (0.66%).

Risk of bleeding complications in percutaneous biliary drainage: the paradox of the normal hemostasis / Risco de complicações de sangramento na drenagem biliar percutânea: o paradoxo da hemostase normal

ABSTRACT Background: Percutaneous biliary drainage is a safe procedure. The risk of bleeding complications is acceptable. Frequently, patients with biliary obstructions usually have coagulation disorders thus increasing risk of bleeding. For this reason, patients should always fit the parameters of hemostasis. Aim: To determine whether the percentage of bleeding complications in percutaneous biliary drainage is greater in adults with corrected hemostasis prior to the procedure regarding those who did not require any. Methods : Prospective, observational, transversal, comparative by independent samples (unpaired comparison). Eighty-two patients with percutaneous biliary drainage were included. The average age was 64±16 years (20-92) being 38 male and 44 female. Patients who presented altered hemostasis were corrected and the presence of bleeding complications was evaluated with laboratory and ultrasound. Results: Of 82 patients, 23 needed correction of hemostasis. The approaches performed were: 41 right, 30 left and 11 bilateral. The amount of punctures on average was 3±2. There were 13 (15.8%) bleeding complications, 12 (20%) in uncorrected and only one (4.34%) in the corrected group with no statistical difference. There were no differences in side, number of punctures and type of drainage, but number of passes and the size of drainage on the right side were different. There was no related mortality. Conclusion: Bleeding complications in patients requiring hemostasis correction for a percutaneous biliary drainage was not greater than in those who did not require any.

RESUMO Racional: A drenagem biliar percutânea é procedimento seguro. O risco de complicações hemorrágicas é aceitável. Frequentemente, os pacientes com obstruções biliares apresentam distúrbios de coagulação, aumentando o risco de sangramento. Por esse motivo, eles devem sempre ser adequados aos parâmetros da hemostasia. Objetivo: Determinar se a porcentagem de complicações hemorrágicas na drenagem biliar percutânea é maior em adultos com hemostasia corrigida antes do procedimento em relação àqueles que necessitaram nenhuma. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo, observacional, transversal, comparativo por amostras independentes (comparação não pareada). Oitenta e dois pacientes foram submetidos à drenagem biliar percutânea. A idade média foi de 64±16 anos (20-92), 38 eram homens e 44 mulheres. Os pacientes que apresentaram hemostasia alterada foram corrigidos, e a presença de complicações hemorrágicas foi avaliada com exames laboratoriais e ultrassonográficos. Resultados: Dos 82 pacientes, 23 necessitaram de correção da hemostasia. O acesso à direita foi em 41 casos, 30 à esquerda e 11 bilaterais. A quantidade de punções em média foi de 3±2. Houve 13 (15,8%) complicações hemorrágicas, 12 (20%) no grupo não corrigido e apenas uma (4,34%) no corrigido sem diferença estatística. Não houve diferenças no lado, no número de perfurações e no tipo de drenagem, mas o número de passagens e o tamanho da drenagem no lado direito foram diferentes. Não houve mortalidade. Conclusão: As complicações hemorrágicas em pacientes que necessitam de correção da hemostasia antes da drenagem biliar percutânea não são maiores do que naqueles que não a requerem.

NECROTIZING PANCREATITIS: DESCRIPTION OF VIDEOSCOPIC ASSISTED RETROPERITONEAL DEBRIDEMENT (VARD) TECHNIQUE WITH COVERED METALLIC STENT.

BACKGROUND: Acute pancreatitis is the third most common gastrointestinal disorder requiring hospitalization in the United States, with annual costs exceeding $2 billions. Severe necrotizing pancreatitis is a life-threatening complication developed in approximately 20% of patients. Its mortality rate range from 15% in patients with sterile necrosis to up 30% in case of infected one associated with multi-organ failure. Less invasive treatment techniques are increasingly being used. These techniques can be performed in a so-called step-up approach. AIM: To present the technique for videoscopic assisted retroperitoneal debridement (Vard technique) with covered metallic stent in necrotizing pancreatitis. METHOD: A guide wire was inserted through the previous catheter that was removed in the next step. Afterwards, the tract was dilated over the guide wire. Then, a partially covered metallic stent was deployed. A 30 degrees laparoscopic camera was inserted and the necrosis removed with forceps through the expanded stent under direct vision. Finally, the stent was removed and a new catheter left in place. RESULT: This technique was used in a 31-year-old man with acute pain in the upper abdomen and diagnosed as acute biliary pancreatitis with infected necrosis. He was treated with percutaneous drains at weeks 3, 6 and 8. Due to partial recovery, a left lateral VARD was performed (incomplete by fixed and adherent tissue) at 8th week. As the patient´s inflammatory response was reactivated, a second VARD attempt was performed in three weeks later. Afterwards, patient showed complete clinical and imaging resolution. CONCLUSIONS: Videoassisted retroperitoneal necrosectomy using partially covered metallic stent is a feasible technique for necrotizing pancreatitis.

PERCUTANEOUS RADIOFREQUENCY ASSISTED LIVER PARTITION WITH PORTAL VEIN EMBOLIZATION FOR STAGED HEPATECTOMY (PRALPPS).

BACKGROUND: When a major hepatic resection is necessary, sometimes the future liver remnant is not enough to maintain sufficient liver function and patients are more likely to develop liver failure after surgery. AIM: To test the hypothesis that performing a percutaneous radiofrecuency liver partition plus percutaneous portal vein embolization (PRALPPS) for stage hepatectomy in pigs is feasible. METHODS: Four pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) both sexes with weights between 25 to 35 kg underwent percutaneous portal vein embolization with coils of the left portal vein. By contrasted CT, the difference between the liver parenchyma corresponding to the embolized zone and the normal one was identified. Immediately, using the fusion of images between ultrasound and CT as a guide, radiofrequency needles were placed percutaneouslyand then ablated until the liver partition was complete. Finally, hepatectomy was completed with a laparoscopic approach. RESULTS: All animals have survived the procedures, with no reported complications. The successful portal embolization process was confirmed both by portography and CT. In the macroscopic analysis of the pieces, the depth of the ablation was analyzed. The hepatic hilum was respected. On the other hand, the correct position of the embolization material on the left portal vein could be also observed. CONCLUSION: "Percutaneous radiofrequency assisted liver partition with portal vein embolization" (PRALLPS) is a feasible procedure.

Necrotizing pancreatitis: description of videoscopic assisted retroperitoneal debridement (vard) technique with covered metallic stent / Pancreatite necrosante: descrição da técnica de debridamento videoendoscópico retroperitoneal (vard) assistida com stent metálico recoberto

ABSTRACT Background : Acute pancreatitis is the third most common gastrointestinal disorder requiring hospitalization in the United States, with annual costs exceeding $2 billions. Severe necrotizing pancreatitis is a life-threatening complication developed in approximately 20% of patients. Its mortality rate range from 15% in patients with sterile necrosis to up 30% in case of infected one associated with multi-organ failure. Less invasive treatment techniques are increasingly being used. These techniques can be performed in a so-called step-up approach. Aim: To present the technique for videoscopic assisted retroperitoneal debridement (Vard technique) with covered metallic stent in necrotizing pancreatitis. Method: A guide wire was inserted through the previous catheter that was removed in the next step. Afterwards, the tract was dilated over the guide wire. Then, a partially covered metallic stent was deployed. A 30 degrees laparoscopic camera was inserted and the necrosis removed with forceps through the expanded stent under direct vision. Finally, the stent was removed and a new catheter left in place. Result : This technique was used in a 31-year-old man with acute pain in the upper abdomen and diagnosed as acute biliary pancreatitis with infected necrosis. He was treated with percutaneous drains at weeks 3, 6 and 8. Due to partial recovery, a left lateral VARD was performed (incomplete by fixed and adherent tissue) at 8th week. As the patient´s inflammatory response was reactivated, a second VARD attempt was performed in three weeks later. Afterwards, patient showed complete clinical and imaging resolution. Conclusions : Videoassisted retroperitoneal necrosectomy using partially covered metallic stent is a feasible technique for necrotizing pancreatitis.

RESUMO Racional: A pancreatite aguda é a terceira doença gastrointestinal mais comum que requer hospitalização nos Estados Unidos, com custos anuais superiores a $ 2 bilhões. A pancreatite necrosante grave é uma complicação potencialmente fatal, desenvolvida em aproximadamente 20% dos pacientes. A taxa de mortalidade varia de 15% em pacientes com necrose estéril para 30% no caso de uma infecção infectada com falência multiorgânica. As técnicas de tratamento menos invasivas são cada vez mais utilizadas. Elas podem ser realizadas em uma abordagem chamada "step-up". Objetivo: Apresentar a técnica de desbridamento retroperitoneal assistido com videografia (técnica VARD) com stent metálico coberto em pancreatite necrosante. Método: Um fio guia é inserido através do cateter anterior que foi removido no próximo passo. Depois, o trajeto é dilatado sobre o fio guia. Em seguida, um stent metálico parcialmente coberto é implantado. Uma câmera laparoscópica de 30º é inserida e a necrose removida com fórceps através do stent expandido sob visão direta. Finalmente, o stent é removido e um novo cateter deixado no lugar. Resultado: Esta técnica foi utilizada em um homem de 31 anos com dor aguda na parte superior do abdome e diagnosticado como pancreatite biliar aguda com necrose infectada. Ele foi tratado com drenos percutâneos nas semanas 3, 6 e 8. Devido à recuperação parcial, realizou-se um VARD lateral esquerdo (incompleto por tecido fixo e aderente) na 8ª semana. À medida que a resposta inflamatória do paciente foi reativada, uma segunda tentativa VARD foi realizada em três semanas mais tarde. Posteriormente, o paciente apresentou resolução clínica e de imagem completa. Conclusão: A necrosectomia retroperitoneal assistida em vídeo com stent metálico parcialmente coberto é uma técnica viável para pancreatite necrosante.

Percutaneous radiofrequency assisted liver partition with portal vein embolization for staged hepatectomy (pralpps) / Divisão hepática assistida com embolização da veia porta para hepatectomia regrada usando radiofrequência percutânea

ABSTRACT Background: When a major hepatic resection is necessary, sometimes the future liver remnant is not enough to maintain sufficient liver function and patients are more likely to develop liver failure after surgery. Aim: To test the hypothesis that performing a percutaneous radiofrecuency liver partition plus percutaneous portal vein embolization (PRALPPS) for stage hepatectomy in pigs is feasible. Methods: Four pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) both sexes with weights between 25 to 35 kg underwent percutaneous portal vein embolization with coils of the left portal vein. By contrasted CT, the difference between the liver parenchyma corresponding to the embolized zone and the normal one was identified. Immediately, using the fusion of images between ultrasound and CT as a guide, radiofrequency needles were placed percutaneouslyand then ablated until the liver partition was complete. Finally, hepatectomy was completed with a laparoscopic approach. Results: All animals have survived the procedures, with no reported complications. The successful portal embolization process was confirmed both by portography and CT. In the macroscopic analysis of the pieces, the depth of the ablation was analyzed. The hepatic hilum was respected. On the other hand, the correct position of the embolization material on the left portal vein could be also observed. Conclusion: "Percutaneous radiofrequency assisted liver partition with portal vein embolization" (PRALLPS) is a feasible procedure.

RESUMO Racional: Quando grande ressecção hepática é necessária, às vezes, o fígado remanescente não é suficiente para manter a função hepática e os pacientes são mais propensos a desenvolver insuficiência hepática após a operação. Objetivo: Testar a hipótese de que a realização de uma divisão do fígado com radiofreqüência percutânea mais a embolização percutânea da veia porta (PROPS) para a hepatectomia regrada em porcos é viável. Métodos: Quatro porcos (Sus scrofa domesticus) ambos os sexos com pesos entre 25 a 35 kg foram submetidos à embolização percutânea da veia porta com espirais da veia porta esquerda. Por TC contrastada, a diferença entre o parênquima hepático correspondente à zona embolizada e a normal foi identificada. Imediatamente, usando a fusão de imagens entre ultrassom e CT guiada, as agulhas de radiofrequência foram colocadas percutaneamente e depois foram cortando até a partição do fígado estar completa. Finalmente, a hepatectomia foi completada com abordagem laparoscópica. Resultados: Todos os animais sobreviveram aos procedimentos, sem complicações. O sucesso do processo de embolização do portal foi confirmado por portografia e CT. Na análise macroscópica das peças, analisou-se a profundidade da ablação. O hilo hepático foi respeitado. Por outro lado, a posição correta do material de embolização na veia porta esquerda também pôde ser observada. Conclusão: "Partição do fígado assistida por radiofrequência percutânea com embolização da veia porta" (PRALLPS) é um procedimento viável.

BIODEGRADABLE BILIARY STENTS: A NEW APPROACH FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF HEPATICOJEJUNOSTOMY STRICTURES FOLLOWING BILE DUCT INJURY. PROSPECTIVE STUDY.

BACKGROUND: Once a biliary injury has occurred, repair is done by a hepaticojejunostomy. The most common procedure is to perform a dilatation with balloon with a success of 70 %. Success rates range using biodegradable stents is from 85% to 95%. Biodegradable biliary stents should change the treatment of this complication. AIM: To investigate the use of biodegradable stents in a group of patients with hepaticojejunonostomy strictures. METHODS: In a prospective study 16 biodegradable stents were placed in 13 patients with hepaticojejunostomy strictures secondary to bile duct repair of a biliary surgical injury. Average age was 38.7 years (23-67), nine were female and four male. All cases had a percutaneous drainage before at the time of biodegradable stent placement. RESULTS: In one case, temporary haemobilia was present requiring blood transfusion. In another, pain after stent placement required intravenous medication. In the other 11 patients, hospital discharge was the next morning following stent placement. During the patient´s follow-up, none presented symptoms during the first nine months. One patient presented significant alkaline phosphatase elevation and stricture recurrence was confirmed. One case had recurrence of cholangitis 11 months after the stent placement. 84.6% continued asymptomatic with a mean follow-up of 20 months. CONCLUSION: The placement of biodegradable stents is a safe and feasible technique. Was not observed strictures caused by the stent or its degradation. It could substitute balloon dilation in strictures of hepaticojejunostomy.

RACIONAL: Uma vez que lesão biliar ocorreu, o reparo é feito por hepaticojejunostomia. O procedimento mais comum é efetuar dilatação com balão com sucesso de 70%. As taxas de sucesso utilizando stents biodegradáveis ​​é de 85% a 95%. Stents biliares biodegradáveis ​​devem mudar o tratamento desta complicação. OBJETIVO: Investigar o uso de stents biodegradáveis em um grupo de pacientes com estenose hepaticojejunal. MÉTODOS: Em estudo prospectivo 16 stents biodegradáveis ​​foram colocados em 13 pacientes com estenose de hepaticojejunostomia secundárias usados para reparação do ductos biliares de lesão cirúrgica. A média de idade foi de 38,7 anos (23-67), nove pacientes eram homens e quatro mulheres. Todos os casos tiveram drenagem percutânea antes do momento da colocação de stent biodegradável. RESULTADOS: Em um caso, haemobilia temporária estava presente com necessidade de transfusão de sangue. Em outro, dor após a colocação do stent necessitou de medicação intravenosa. Nos outros 11 pacientes, alta hospitalar foi na manhã seguinte após o procedimento. Durante o seguimento, nenhum apresentou sintomas durante os primeiros nove meses. Um paciente apresentou significativa elevação da fosfatase alcalina por recidiva da estenose. Um caso teve recorrência de colangite 11 meses após a colocação do stent. Continuaram assintomáticos 84,6% com média de acompanhamento de 20 meses. CONCLUSÃO: A colocação de stents biodegradáveis ​​é técnica segura e viável. Não foram observadas restrições causadas pelo stent ou pela sua degradação. Stent pode substituir dilatação com balão na estenose de hepaticojejunostomia.

[Teres ligament hemangioma: laparoscopic approach]. / Hemangioma del ligamento redondo: resección laparoscópica.

Hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors, whose origin comes from the embryonic mesodermal tissue remains. The liver is the most common location. Its location in the teres ligament is extremely rare. This is a 59 years old male admitted because of episodes of epigastric pain for six months. A CT scan and MRI demostrated a 2 cm diameter lesion located near the Teres ligament. Laparoscopic resection was performed. Hemangiomas are the most common benign solid tumors located in the liver. They represents 73% of all benign liver tumors. MRI is the imaging of greater certainty for diagnosis. The Teres ligament (ligamentum teres hepatis) is a fibrous cord resulting in obliteration of the umbilical vein. The location of hemangiomas in this region is extremely rare but should be considered and should make the differential diagnosis with a pedicled hepatic hemangioma or gastointestinal stromal tumors.

Biodegradable biliary stents: a new approach for the management of hepaticojejunostomy strictures following bile duct injury. prospective study / Stent biliar biodegradável: uma nova abordagem para as estenoses hepaticojejunais após lesão do ducto biliar. estudo prospectivo

ABSTRACT Background: Once a biliary injury has occurred, repair is done by a hepaticojejunostomy. The most common procedure is to perform a dilatation with balloon with a success of 70 %. Success rates range using biodegradable stents is from 85% to 95%. Biodegradable biliary stents should change the treatment of this complication. Aim: To investigate the use of biodegradable stents in a group of patients with hepaticojejunonostomy strictures. Methods: In a prospective study 16 biodegradable stents were placed in 13 patients with hepaticojejunostomy strictures secondary to bile duct repair of a biliary surgical injury. Average age was 38.7 years (23-67), nine were female and four male. All cases had a percutaneous drainage before at the time of biodegradable stent placement. Results: In one case, temporary haemobilia was present requiring blood transfusion. In another, pain after stent placement required intravenous medication. In the other 11 patients, hospital discharge was the next morning following stent placement. During the patient´s follow-up, none presented symptoms during the first nine months. One patient presented significant alkaline phosphatase elevation and stricture recurrence was confirmed. One case had recurrence of cholangitis 11 months after the stent placement. 84.6% continued asymptomatic with a mean follow-up of 20 months. Conclusion: The placement of biodegradable stents is a safe and feasible technique. Was not observed strictures caused by the stent or its degradation. It could substitute balloon dilation in strictures of hepaticojejunostomy.

RESUMO Racional: Uma vez que lesão biliar ocorreu, o reparo é feito por hepaticojejunostomia. O procedimento mais comum é efetuar dilatação com balão com sucesso de 70%. As taxas de sucesso utilizando stents biodegradáveis ​​é de 85% a 95%. Stents biliares biodegradáveis ​​devem mudar o tratamento desta complicação. Objetivo: Investigar o uso de stents biodegradáveis em um grupo de pacientes com estenose hepaticojejunal Métodos: Em estudo prospectivo 16 stents biodegradáveis ​​foram colocados em 13 pacientes com estenose de hepaticojejunostomia secundárias usados para reparação do ductos biliares de lesão cirúrgica. A média de idade foi de 38,7 anos (23-67), nove pacientes eram homens e quatro mulheres. Todos os casos tiveram drenagem percutânea antes do momento da colocação de stent biodegradável. Resultados: Em um caso, haemobilia temporária estava presente com necessidade de transfusão de sangue. Em outro, dor após a colocação do stent necessitou de medicação intravenosa. Nos outros 11 pacientes, alta hospitalar foi na manhã seguinte após o procedimento. Durante o seguimento, nenhum apresentou sintomas durante os primeiros nove meses. Um paciente apresentou significativa elevação da fosfatase alcalina por recidiva da estenose. Um caso teve recorrência de colangite 11 meses após a colocação do stent. Continuaram assintomáticos 84,6% com média de acompanhamento de 20 meses. Conclusão: A colocação de stents biodegradáveis ​​é técnica segura e viável. Não foram observadas restrições causadas pelo stent ou pela sua degradação. Stent pode substituir dilatação com balão na estenose de hepaticojejunostomia.

Prevalence of cholelithiasis in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

BACKGROUND: Cholelithiasis is an important cause of morbidity in the world and it varies significantly depending on the region of study. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of cholelithiasis in Buenos Aires. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study performed in a public hospital with tertiary care in Gastrointestinal Surgery. From July 2010 to December 2011, 1,875 healthy volunteers who underwent liver, gallbladder and pancreas ultrasound imaging were included and a questionnaire containing the individual's medical history was administered. The presence of cholelithiasis and its eventual risk factors were studied. RESULTS: Of 1,875 individuals, 866 were males (46.2%) and 1,009 females (53.8%), older than 20 years old with an average age of 46.1 + 16.7 years. Cholelithiasis was found in 410 inidviduals (21.9%); 285 (15.2%) diagnosed at the time of the study and 125 (67%) who had already undergone a cholecystectomy due to gallstones. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of cholelithiasis in Buenos Aires, capital city of Argentina, is 21.9%. A significant association was found between cholelithiasis and female gender, age, body mass index, history of colic pain, family history of cholelithiasis, smoking, fatty liver and number of pregnancies.