Morbidity and mortality after liver resection: results of the patient safety in surgery study

A systematic review and meta-analysis on the quality of life after hepatic resection

BACKGROUND

Quality of life (QoL) after hepatic resection is a pertinent issue that has been poorly studied. The aim of this study was to compare changes in QoL before and after hepatic resection.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library. Whenever possible, pooled mean differences of survey scores pre- and post-operatively were calculated.

RESULTS

22 studies were included comprising a total of 1785 participants. Using the EORTC-QLQ 30C survey, patients with benign disease tend to have better QoL post-surgery than those with malignant disease. There were post-operative improvements in the following FACT-HEP domains: physical at 9 months (MD 3.14, 95%CI 2.70 to 3.58, P < 0.001), social and family at 3 (MD 1.45, 95%CI 0.12 to 2.77, p = 0.030), 6 (MD 1.12, 95%CI 0.21 to 2.04, p = 0.020), 9 (MD 0.66, 95%CI 0.03 to 1.28, p = 0.040), and 12 (MD 0.58, 95%CI 0.12 to 1.03, p = 0.010) months, emotional at 9 (P < 0.001) and 24 months (P < 0.001), hepatobiliary at 24 months (p < 0.001), and global health status at 9 months (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

QoL scores tend to deteriorate post-surgery, but recover to baseline in the long-term at 9-months. Patients with malignant disease, and those who underwent major hepatectomy, have poorer QoL scores.

Is resident assistance equivalent to fellows during hepatectomy?

OBJECTIVE

Hepatectomy is a complex operative procedure frequently performed at academic institutions with trainee participation. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of assistant's training level on outcomes following hepatectomy.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospective, single-institution ACS-NSQIP database was performed for patients that underwent hepatectomy (2013-2016). Patients were divided by trainee assistant level: hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) fellow versus general surgery resident (PGY 4-5). Demographic, perioperative, and 30-day outcome variables were compared using Chi-Square/Fisher's exact, Mann-Whitney U test, and multivariable regression. Cases involving a senior-level general surgery resident or HPB fellow as first assistant were included (n = 352). Those with a second attending, junior-level resident, or no documented assistant were excluded (n = 39).

RESULTS

Patients undergoing hepatectomy with an HPB fellow as primary assistant had more frequent preoperative biliary stenting, longer operative time, and more concomitant procedures including biliary reconstruction, resulting in a higher rate of post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) (15% vs. 8%, P = 0.044). However, trainee level did not impact PHLF on multivariable analysis (OR 0.60, 95% CI [0.29-1.25], P = 0.173). Fellows assisted with proportionally more major hepatectomies (45% vs. 31%; P = 0.010) and resections for hepatobiliary cancers (31% vs. 19%, P = 0.014). On stratified analysis of major and minor hepatectomies, outcomes were similar between trainee groups.

CONCLUSION

Fellows performed higher complexity cases with longer operative time. Despite these differences, outcomes were similar regardless of assistant training level. Resident and HPB fellow participation in operations requiring liver resection provide comparable quality of care.

Effects of a new perioperative enhanced recovery after surgery protocol in hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma

PURPOSE

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are becoming the standard of care in many surgical procedures, although data on their use following hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a new ERAS pathway in terms of the patient nutrition status after hepatectomy for HCC.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of 97 consecutive patients treated with open or laparoscopic hepatectomy for HCC between January 2011 and August 2014. We compared the perioperative outcomes between patients whose treatment incorporated the ERAS pathway and control patients. The nutritional status was evaluated using the controlling nutritional status score.

RESULTS

The length of hospital stay (LOS) after both open and laparoscopic hepatectomy was shorter for the ERAS group than the control group. The days of ambulation and cessation of intravenous infusion were earlier and the postoperative nutrition status was statistically better in the ERAS group than in the control group. A multivariate analysis showed that being in the non-ERAS group was a risk factor of delayed discharge. There were no marked differences in the rate of severe complications between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The ERAS pathway seems feasible and safe and results in a faster recovery, reduced LOS, improved nutrition status, and fewer severe complications.

Hypoxia protects the liver from Small For Size Syndrome: A lesson learned from the associated liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) procedure in rats

Portal hyperperfusion and "dearterialization" of the liver remnant are the main pathogenic mechanisms for Small For Size syndrome (SFSS). Associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) induces rapid remnant hypertrophy. We hypothesized a similar increase in portal pressure/flow into the future liver remnant in ALPPS and SFSS-setting hepatectomies. In a rodent model, ALPPS was compared to SFSS-setting hepatectomy. We assessed mortality, remnant hypertrophy, hepatocyte proliferation, portal and hepatic artery flow, hypoxia-induced response, and liver sinusoidal morphology. SFSS-hepatectomy rats were subjected to local (hepatic artery ligation) or systemic (Dimethyloxalylglycine) hypoxia. ALLPS prevented mortality in SFSS-setting hepatectomies. Portal hyperperfusion per liver mass was similar in ALLPS and SFSS. Compared to SFSS, efficient arterial perfusion of the remnant was significantly lower in ALPPS causing pronounced hypoxia confirmed by pimonidazole immunostaining, activation of hypoxia sensors and upregulation of neo-angiogenic genes. Liver sinusoids, larger in ALPPS, collapsed in SFSS. Induction of hypoxia in SFSS reduced mortality. Hypoxia had no impact on hepatocyte proliferation but contributed to the integrity of sinusoidal morphology. ALPPS hemodynamically differ from SFSS by a much lower arterial flow in ALPPS's FLR. We show that the ensuing hypoxic response is essential for the function of the regenerating liver by preserving sinusoidal morphology.

Clinical prediction score for superficial surgical site infections: Real-life data from a retrospective single-centre analysis of 812 hepatectomies

Superficial surgical site infections (SSIs) are one of the most common postoperative complications of hepatectomy for liver cancer. The objective of this study is to clarify the risk factors and determine a clinical prediction score for SSIs after partial hepatectomy for malignant tumour. A total of 812 consecutive patients were enrolled who underwent partial hepatectomy for liver malignant tumour from January 2017 to December 2017. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify the risk factors for SSIs. Clinical prediction score was then constructed using coefficients of identified significant predictors. Risk stratification was then carried out by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Of all the 812 patients, SSIs were observed in 31 (3.82%) patients. A multivariate analysis identified four predictors as independent risk factors for SSIs, which were splenomegaly, perioperative blood transfusion, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and low postoperative serum albumin concentration (<35 g/L). Clinical prediction score ranged from 0 to 4.6 with its discrimination concordance (C) statistic of 0.70 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59, 0.81). Risk stratification classified these patients into low, moderate, and high risk in SSIs. This risk score system may credibly stratify the risk of SSIs with relatively high sensitivity and specificity. Splenomegaly, history of blood transfusion, ICU admission, and postoperative serum albumin concentration less than 35 g/L could be used to predict SSIs with acceptable discrimination. This clinical risk score system may be useful in prediction of SSIs after hepatectomy for malignant tumours.

Implementation and first results of a mandatory, nationwide audit on liver surgery

BACKGROUND

The Dutch Hepato Biliary Audit (DHBA) was initiated in 2013 to assess the national quality of liver surgery. This study aimed to describe the initiation and implementation of this audit along with an overview of the results and future perspectives.

METHODS

Registry of patients undergoing liver surgery for all primary and secondary liver tumors in the DHBA is mandatory. Weekly, benchmarked information on process and outcome measures is reported to surgical teams. In this study, the first results of patients with colorectal liver metastases were presented, including results of data verification.

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2017, 6241 procedures were registered, including 4261 (68%) resections for colorectal liver metastases. For minor- and major liver resections for colorectal liver metastases, the median [interquartile range] hospital stay was 6 [4-8] and 8 [6-12] days, respectively. A postoperative complicated course (complication leading to >14 days of hospital stay, reintervention or death) occurred in 26% and 43% and the 30-day/in-hospital mortality was 1% and 4%, respectively. The completeness of data was 97%. In 3.6% of patients, a complicated postoperative course was erroneously omitted.

CONCLUSION

Nationwide implementation of the DHBA has been successful. This was the first step in creating a complete evaluation of the quality of liver surgery.

Improved hemostasis with major hepatic resection in the current surgical era

BACKGROUND

Major hepatic resection, predominantly performed for oncologic intent, is a complex procedure with the potential for severe intraoperative hemorrhage. The current surgical era has the ability to improve hemostasis throughout the performance of major hepatic resections which decreases blood transfusions and the detrimental effects associated with transfusion. We evaluated hemostasis and outcomes in the current surgical era of performing hepatic resections.

METHODS

Utilizing the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database all major hepatic resections performed between 2012 and 2016 were analyzed in regards to hemostasis. Hemostasis was evaluated by the need for and magnitude of blood transfusions. Additional perioperative variables (including operative time, length of hospital stay, and mortality rates) were analyzed to assess for outcomes with hemostasis. The NSQIP results were compared to previous publications involving major hepatic resections to detect improvement in hemostasis and outcomes in the current surgical era.

RESULTS

A total of 22777 major hepatic resections met the inclusion criteria for analysis in the NSQIP database. An additional 21198 cases were compiled within the selected publications for comparative analysis. The transfusion rate in the current surgical era was 13.3% versus 38.7% in the previous era (P = 0.0001). When a transfusion was required in the current surgical era there was a two-fold reduction in the number of units transfused (1.5 U vs. 3.8 U, P = 0.0001). Statistically significant improvements in operative time and length of hospital stay were presented within the current surgical era (P = 0.0001). When a transfusion was required there was an increased relative risk score of 7 for mortality (4.9% vs. 0.7%, P = 0.0001), however, improvement in mortality rates did not reach statistical significance across surgical eras (1.3% vs. 4.0%, P = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The conduction of major hepatic resection in the current surgical era is more hemostatic. Correlated with improved hemostasis are better outcomes for both clinical and financial endpoints. These findings should encourage continued and increased performance of major hepatic resections.

The impact of posthepatectomy liver failure on long-term survival after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastasis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative complications affect both the short-term and long-term outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify specific prognostic factors among complications after hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM).

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2014, 427 patients underwent initial hepatectomy for CRLM. The clinicopathological parameters including postoperative complications were evaluated to identify the prognostic factors for the overall (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS).

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-nine patients (34%) developed postoperative complications, including surgical site infection (n = 49, 11.4%), bile leakage (n = 41, 9.6%), posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) (n = 26, 6.0%), and pulmonary complication (n = 20, 4.6%). The independent predictors of RFS included primary nodal metastasis, abnormal CA19-9 levels, extrahepatic metastasis, bilateral CRLMs, ≥5 CRLMs, preoperative chemotherapy, lack of adjuvant chemotherapy and PHLF. The 5-year RFS rates in patients with and without PHLF were 8% and 32%, respectively (P < 0.001). The independent prognostic factors for OS included primary nodal metastasis, abnormal CA19-9 levels, extrahepatic metastasis, positive surgical margins, preoperative chemotherapy, lack of adjuvant chemotherapy and PHLF. The 5-year OS rates in patients with and without PHLF were 31% and 63%, respectively (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Among the complications, only PHLF was associated with decreased long-term survival after hepatectomy for CRLM as well as tumor-specific prognostic factors.

Goal directed fluid therapy for major liver resection: A multicentre randomized controlled trial

Background

The effect a restrictive goal directed therapy (GDT) fluid protocol combined with an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programme on hospital stay for patients undergoing major liver resection is unknown.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre randomized controlled pilot trial evaluating whether a patient-specific, surgery-specific intraoperative restrictive fluid optimization algorithm would improve duration of hospital stay and reduce perioperative fluid related complications.

Results

Forty-eight participants were enrolled. The median (IQR) length of hospital stay was 7.0 days (7.0:8.0) days in the restrictive fluid optimization algorithm group (Restrict group) vs. 8.0 days (6.0:10.0) in the conventional care group (Conventional group) (Incidence rate ratio 0.85; 95% Confidence Interval 0.71:1.1; p = 0.17). No statistically significant difference in expected number of complications per patient between groups was identified (IRR 0.85; 95%CI: 0.45–1.60; p = 0.60). Patients in the Restrict group had lower intraoperative fluid balances: 808 mL (571:1565) vs. 1345 mL (900:1983) (p = 0.04) and received a lower volume of fluid per kg/hour intraoperatively: 4.3 mL/kg/hr (2.6:5.8) vs. 6.0 mL/kg/hr (4.2:7.6); p = 0.03. No significant differences in the proportion of patients who received vasoactive drugs intraoperatively (p = 0.56) was observed.

Conclusion

In high-volume hepatobiliary surgical units, the addition of a fluid restrictive intraoperative cardiac output-guided algorithm, combined with a standard ERAS protocol did not significantly reduce length of hospital stay or fluid related complications. Our findings are hypothesis-generating and a larger confirmatory study may be justified.

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Major liver resection is a complex procedure with up to 40% patients experiencing complications.

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Optimisation of perfusion and oxygen delivery to all organs remain the cornerstone of best hemodynamic care.

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Traditionally, a low central venous pressure strategy during major liver resection has been used to reduce venous bleeding.

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The impact of a restrictive cardiac output fluid optimisation algorithm during major liver surgery is unknown.

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After major hepatobiliary surgery, a fluid restrictive algorithm did not reduce length of hospital stay or complications.

The financial impact of postoperative complications following liver resection

The aim of the study was to determine the financial burden of complications and examine the cost differentials between complicated and uncomplicated hospital stays, including the differences in cost due to extent of resection and operative technique.Liver resection carries a high financial cost. Despite improvements in perioperative care, postoperative morbidity remains high. The contribution of postoperative complications to the cost of liver resection is poorly quantified, and there is little data to help guide cost containment strategies.Complications for 317 consecutive adult patients undergoing liver resection were recorded using the Clavien-Dindo classification. Patients were stratified based on the grade of their worst complication to assess the contribution of morbidity to resource use of specific cost centers. Costs were calculated using an activity-based costing methodology.Complications dramatically increased median hospital cost ($22,954 vs $15,593, P < .001). Major resection cost over $10,000 more than minor resection and carried greater morbidity (82% vs 59%, P < .001). Similarly, open resection cost more than laparoscopic resection ($21,548 vs $15,235, P < .001) and carried higher rates of complications (72% vs 41.5%, P < .001). Hospital cost increased with increasing incidence and severity of complications. Complications increased costs across all cost centers. Minor complications (Clavien-Dindo Grade I and II) were shown to significantly increase costs compared with uncomplicated patients.Liver resection continues to carry a high incidence of complications, and these result in a substantial financial burden. Hospital cost and length of stay increase with greater severity and number of complications. Our findings provide an in-depth analysis by stratifying total costs by cost centers, therefore guiding future economic studies and strategies aimed at cost containment for liver resection.

A comparison of treatment and outcomes of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma between Eastern and Western centers

BACKGROUND

Perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC) often requires extensive surgery which is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to compare an Eastern and Western PHC cohort in terms of patient characteristics, treatment strategies and outcomes including a propensity score matched analysis.

METHODS

All consecutive patients who underwent combined biliary and liver resection for PHC between 2005 and 2016 at two Western and one Eastern center were included. The overall perioperative and long-term outcomes of the cohorts were compared and a propensity score matched analysis was performed to compare perioperative outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 210 Western patients were compared to 164 Eastern patients. Western patients had inferior survival compared to the East (hazard-ratio 1.72 (1-23-2.40) P < 0.001) corrected for age, ASA score, tumor stage and margin status. After propensity score matching, liver failure rate, morbidity, and mortality were similar. There was more biliary leakage (38% versus 13%, p = 0.015) in the West.

CONCLUSION

There were major differences in patient characteristics, treatment strategies, perioperative outcomes and survival between Eastern and Western PHC cohorts. Future studies should focus whether these findings are due to the differences in the treatment or the disease itself.

Enhanced Recovery in Liver Transplantation: A Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programmes after surgery are effective in reducing length of stay, functional recovery and complication rates in liver surgery (LS) with the indirect advantage of reducing hospitalisation costs. Preoperative comorbidities, challenging surgical procedures and complex post-operative management are the points that liver transplantation (LT) shares with LS. Nevertheless, there is little evidence regarding the feasibility and safety of ERAS programmes in LT.

METHODS

We designed a pilot, small-scale, feasibility study to assess the impact on hospital stay, protocol compliance and safety of an ERAS programme tailored for LT. The ERAS arm was compared with a 1:2 match paired control arm with similar characteristics. All patients with MELD <25 were included. A dedicated LT-tailored protocol was derived from publications on ERAS liver surgery.

RESULTS

Ten patients were included in the Fast-Trans arm. It was observed a 47% reduction of the total LOS, as compared to the control arm: 9.5 (9.0-10.5) days versus 18.0 (14.3-24.3) days, respectively, p <0.001. The protocol achieved 72.9% compliance. No differences were observed in terms of post-operative complications or readmission rates after discharge between the two arms. Overall, it was observed a reduction of length of stay in ICU and surgical ward in the Fast-Trans arm compared with the control arm.

CONCLUSION

Considered the main points in common between LS and LT, this small-scale study suggests that the application of an ERAS programme tailored to the LT setting is feasible. Further testing will be appropriate to generalise these findings.

Impact of Intra-Operative Adverse Events on the Risk of Surgical Site Infection in Abdominal Surgery

BACKGROUND

Intra-operative adverse events (iAEs) recently were shown to correlate independently with an increased risk of post-operative death, morbidity, re-admissions, and length of hospital stay. We sought to understand further the impact of iAEs on surgical site infections (SSIs) in abdominal surgical procedures and delineate which patient populations are most affected. We hypothesized that all patients with iAEs have an increased risk for SSI, especially those with pre-existing risk factors for SSI.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

To identify iAEs, a well-described three-step methodology was used: (1) the 2007-2012 American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was merged with the administrative database of our tertiary academic center, (2) the merged database was screened for iAEs in abdominal surgical procedures using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification-based Patient Safety Indicator "Accidental Puncture/Laceration," and (3) each flagged record was systematically reviewed to confirm iAE occurrence. Uni-variable and backward stepwise multi-variable analyses (adjusting for demographics, co-morbidities, type and complexity of operation) were performed to study the independent correlation between iAEs and SSIs (superficial, deep incisional, and organ-space). The correlation between iAEs and SSIs was investigated especially in patients deemed a priori at high risk for SSIs, specifically those older than age 60 and those with diabetes mellitus, obesity, cigarette smoking, steroid use, or American Society of Anesthesiologists class ≥III.

RESULTS

A total of 9,288 operations were included, and iAEs were detected in 183 (2.0%). Most iAEs consisted of bowel (44%) or vessel (29%) injuries and were addressed intra-operatively (92%). SSI occurred in 686 (7.4%) cases and included 331 (3.5%) superficial, 32 (0.34%) deep incisional, and 333 (3.6%) organ/space infections. iAEs were correlated independently with SSI (odds ratio [OR] = 1.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-2.52, p = 0.013), and more severe iAEs were associated with a higher risk of infection. Analysis by SSI type revealed a significant association with organ/space SSI (OR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.07-3.05; p = 0.027), but not incisional infections. Most interestingly, the occurrence of an iAE was correlated with increased SSI rate in the low-risk but not the high-risk patient populations. Specifically, iAEs increased SSI in patients younger than 60 (OR = 2.69, 95% CI 1.55-4.67, p < 0.001), non-diabetic patients (OR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.04-2.58, p = 0.034), non-obese patients (OR = 2.9, 95% CI 1.81-4.66, p < 0.001), non-smokers (OR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.08-2.6, p = 0.022), with no steroid use (OR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.15-2.6, p < 0.008), and with ASA class <III (OR = 2.26, 95% CI 1.31-3.87, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

The iAEs are associated independently with increased SSIs, particularly in patients with less pre-existing risk factors for SSI. Preventing iAEs or mitigating their impact, once they occur, may help decrease the rate of SSIs.

Developing and validating a preoperative risk score to predict 90-day mortality after liver resection

BACKGROUND

Hepatobiliary surgeons continue to expand the pool of patients undergoing liver resection using combinations of surgical and interventional procedures with chemotherapy. Improved perioperative care allows for operation on higher risk surgical patients. Postoperative outcomes, including 90-day mortality that improved over the past decade but still varies across cohorts. This study developed a preoperative risk score, on the basis significant clinical and laboratory variables, to predict 90-day mortality after hepatectomy.

METHODS

All patients who underwent hepatectomy between 2011 and 2016 were included. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify the predictors of postoperative mortality and a risk score was derived and validated.

RESULTS

The overall 90-day mortality rate in the derivation cohort (n = 1269 patients) was 4.0% (N = 51). Increasing patient age (P < 0.001), extent of resection (P = 0.001), diabetes mellitus (P = 0.006), and low preoperative sodium (P = 0.012) were predictors of the increased 90-day mortality in the multivariable analysis. The risk model developed based on these factors had an AUROC of 0.778 (P < 0.001) and remained significant in a validation cohort of 788 patients (AUROC: 0.703, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The proposed preoperative risk score to predict 90-day mortality after liver resection could be useful for appropriate counseling, optimization, and risk-adjusted assessment of surgical outcomes.

Single Dose Based Ertapenem Prophylaxis Reduces Surgical Site Infection after Selective Hepatectomy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Propensity Score Matching Study

Objective

This study aimed to assess whether a single dose of ertapenem prophylaxis was more effective than other antibiotics to prevent surgical site infection (SSI) after selective hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

The data from HCC patients with open hepatectomy between January 2012 and June 2017 in Shengjing Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. These patients were divided into two groups: ertapenem (ER) group, where a single dose of ER was administered; non-ertapenem (NER) group, where NER antibiotics were administered. The SSI rates were compared between two groups before and after matching the propensity scores.

Results

The enrolled patients consisted of 78 in the ER group and 197 in the NER group. After matching the propensity scores, each group was down-selected to 65 patients. The SSI rate among the matched 130 patients was 14.6%, 7.7% occurred in the ER group and 21.5% in the NER group (P<0.05). The SSI rates in organ/space of the ER and NER groups were 3.1% and 13.8%, respectively (P<0.05).

Conclusions

A single dose of ER before surgery was more effective in mitigating SSI after selective hepatectomy compared with other antibiotics use. The results imply that the selection of both antibiotics and administration timing is important for the efficacy in preventing SSI.

Radiofrequency-assisted liver resection: Technique and results

BACKGROUND

Radiofrequency (RF)-assisted liver resection allows non-anatomical liver resection with reduced blood loss and offers the opportunity for a combination of resection and ablation. However, there are still concerns with regard to postoperative complications related to this technique. In the present study, we discuss the technical aspects of RF-assisted liver resections and analyse the rate of perioperative complications, focusing on post-hepatectomy liver failure (PLF), bile leak and abscess, and mortality.

METHODS

Between 2001 and 2015, 857 consecutive open and laparoscopic elective RF-assisted liver resections for benign and malignant liver tumours were reviewed retrospectively to assess perioperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Median intraoperative blood loss was 130 mL, with 9.8% of patients requiring blood transfusion. Intra-abdominal collections requiring percutaneous drainage developed in 8.7% of all patients, while bile leak at resection margin developed in 2.8% of the cases. Major liver resection was performed in 34% of patients and the incidence of PLF was 1.5% with one directly related mortality (0.1%).

CONCLUSION

RF-assisted liver resection has evolved into a feasible and safe technique of liver resection with an acceptable incidence of perioperative morbidity and a low incidence of PLF and related mortality.

Visceral infiltration of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is most prognostic after curative resection - Retrospective cohort study of 102 consecutive liver resections from a single center

INTRODUCTION

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a rare malignancy, and therefore large unicenter series on the surgical outcome are rare in the literature, and prognostic factors for overall survival in the literature vary widely.

METHODS

All patients who underwent surgery for ICC were prospectively recorded. The type of resection, operative details, histological results, morbidity, mortality, overall and recurrence-free survivals as well as prognostic factors were assessed. Prognostic factors were examined by univariate and multivariate analyses. P-values <0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

Between January 2008 and December 2015, 102 patients underwent a resection with curative intent and were included in this analysis. Major and extended hepatectomies were performed in 19 and 53 cases, respectively. Twenty-eight patients had additional vascular and 35 patients additional visceral resections. R0-resections were achieved in 87 patients (85.3%). Median recurrence-free and overall survivals were 9.3 and 20.8 months, respectively. N-stage, infiltration of surrounding structures and UICC stage were significant prognostic factors in the univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis depicted only visceral infiltration (p = 0.011) as independent predictor for overall survival, and tumor size (p < 0.001), N-stage (p = 0.007), R-stage (p = 0.008) and M-stage (p = 0.009) for recurrence-free survival.

CONCLUSION

An aggressive surgical approach achieves a high rate of R0 resections even in advanced ICC. Visceral infiltration is an independent predictor for overall survival for ICC after curative resection.

Quality of life after hepatic resection

Background

Long-term quality of life (QoL) after liver resection is becoming increasingly important, as improvements in operative methods and perioperative care have decreased morbidity and mortality rates. In this study, postoperative QoL after resection of benign or malignant liver tumours was evaluated.

Methods

In this single-centre study, QoL was evaluated prospectively using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 and the liver-specific QLQ-LMC21 module before, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after open or laparoscopic liver surgery.

Results

Between June 2007 and January 2013, 188 patients (130 with malignant and 58 with benign tumours) requiring major liver resection were included. Global health status was no different between the two groups before and 1 month after liver resection. All patients showed an improvement in global health status at 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Patients with benign tumours had better global health status than those with malignant tumours at these time points (P &lt; 0·001, P = 0·002 and P = 0·006 respectively). Patients with benign disease had better physical function scores (P = 0·011, P = 0·025 and P = 0·041) and lower fatigue scores (P = 0·001, P = 0·002 and P = 0·002) at 3, 6 and 12 months than those with malignant disease.

Conclusion

This study confirmed overall good QoL in patients undergoing liver resection for benign or malignant tumours, which improved after surgery. Benign diseases were associated with better short- and long-term QoL scores.

Risk prediction model for major complication after hepatectomy for malignant tumour - A validated scoring system from a university center

OBJECTIVE

To derive and validate a scoring system for major complication after hepatectomy.

BACKGROUND

Complications after hepatectomy significantly compromise survival outcomes, method to predict such risk is lacking. A reliable scoring system is therefore awaited.

METHODS

Consecutive adult patients receiving hepatectomy for primary or secondary liver malignancy from 1995 to 2014 were recruited. After randomization, patients were allocated to derivation and validation group respectively. A scoring system predicting occurrence of major complication was developed.

RESULTS

There were 2613 patients eligible for the study. The overall complication rate for the series was 10%. Impaired performance status (p = 0.014), presence of pre-existing medical illness (p = 0.008), elevated ALP (p = 0.005), urea (p < 0.001), and hypoalbuminemia (p = 0.008), and major hepatectomy (p < 0.001) were found to be independently associated major complications. A score was assigned to each of these factors according to their respective odd ratio. A total score of 0-17 was calculated for all patients. This score was shown to discriminate well with complication rate in both derivation and validation group (c-statistic: 0.71, p < 0.001 and 0.74, p < 0.001 respectively). The complication rate for low (score 0-5), moderate (score 6-10) and high (score 10 or above) risk group were respectively 5%, 16% and 28%. This risk stratification model was tested and confirmed in the validation group using Chi-square goodness-of-fit test (p = 0.864).

CONCLUSION

A validated risk stratification model provides an accurate and easy-to-use reference tool for patients and clinicians during the informed consent process.

Validation of a Nomogram to Predict the Risk of Perioperative Blood Transfusion for Liver Resection

BACKGROUND

Nomograms may be important clinical tools to estimate the preoperative risk of transfusion and allow for preemptive arrangements for alternatives to allogeneic blood transfusions.

METHODS

A multicentric international cohort of 1345 patients who underwent hepatectomy for benign or malign liver diseases was used to validate a nomogram developed by the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

RESULTS

A total of 449 (33.3 %) patients received a blood transfusion after hepatectomy. Several variables were associated with the need of transfusion on univariate analysis: age, BMI, hemoglobin, PT-INR, bilirubin, AST, ALT, GGT, albumin, primary liver cancer, and number of segments resected. The MSKCC nomogram, including the number of segments resected, diagnosis (primary vs. non-primary), extrahepatic organ resection, as well as platelet and hemoglobin levels, had a good predictive ability (AUC = 0.69). The frequency of patients transfused ranged from 19 % for patients who were at "low risk" (<20 % risk to be transfused) up to 68 % for patients at "high risk" (>70 % risk to be transfused). The nomogram was tested in a multivariable model including other factors associated with risk of transfusion. The final model included age (OR 1.02, 95 % CI 1.01-1.03, p < 0.001), PT-INR (OR 1.54, 95 % CI 1.01-2.36, p = 0.048), and bilirubin (OR 1.86, 95 % CI 1.09-3.18, p = 0.021). The prediction ability for the integrated prediction model was AUC = 0.73.

CONCLUSION

The MSKCC nomogram was an effective clinical tool able to predict the perioperative risk of transfusion in our independent external validation. The inclusion of patient age, as well as factors associated with liver functional status (bilirubin and PT-INR), improved the predictive ability of the MSKCC nomogram.

Enhanced recovery program versus traditional care after hepatectomy: A meta-analysis

To assess the safety and efficacy of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) as compared with the traditional care in patients undergoing liver surgery and optimization of enhanced recovery programs.Literature, until August 2016, was searched to identify the comparative studies evaluating preoperative hospital stay time, complications, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Pooled odds ratios (OR) or weighted mean differences (WMDs) were calculated with either the fixed or random effect model.These studies included a total of 524 patients: 254 treated with ERAS and 270 with traditional care. The postoperative recovery time and length of hospital stay were significantly better than the control group (WMD -2.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] -3.86 to -1.57; WMD -2.67; 95% CI -3.68 to -1.65, respectively). The overall complications, grade I, and Grand II-V complications were significantly favorable to the ERAS group (OR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.30-0.67]; OR, 0.55 [95% CI, 0.31-0.98]; OR, 0.49 [95% CI, 0.32-0.76], respectively). The concentration of CRP in the control group was significantly higher than that in the ERAS group on postoperative day 5 (WMD -21.68; 95% CI -29.30 to -14.05). Time to first flatus (WMD -0.93; 95% CI -1.41 to -0.46) was significantly shortened in the ERAS group.The evidence indicates that ERAS following liver surgery is safe, effective, and feasible. Therefore, further are essential for optimizing the ERAS protocols.

Analysis of the biliostatic potential of two sealants in a standardized porcine model of liver resection

BACKGROUND

Improved resection techniques has decreased mortality rate following liver resections(LRx). Sealants are known as effective adjuncts for haemostasis after LRx. We compared biliostatic effectiveness of two sealants in a standardized porcine model of LRx.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We accomplished left hemihepatectomy on 27 pigs. The animals were randomized in control group(n = 9) with no sealant and treatment groups (each n = 9), in which resection surfaces were covered with TachoSil^® and TissuFleece^®/Tissucol Duo^®. After 5 days the volume of ascites(ml), bilioma and/or bile leakages and degree of intra-abdominal adhesions were analysed.

RESULTS

Proportion of ascites was lower in TissuFleece/Tissucol Duo^® group. The ascites volume was lower in TachoSil^® group. In sealant groups, increased adhesion specially in the TachoSil^® group was seen. A reduction of the "bilioma rate" was seen in sealant groups, which was significantly lower in TissuFleece^®/Tissucol Duo^® group.

CONCLUSION

In a standardized condition sealants have a good biliostatic effect but with heterogeneous potentials. This property in combination with the cost-benefit analysis should be the focus of future prospective studies.

Safety-related outcomes of the Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery board certification system for expert surgeons

BACKGROUND

We investigated safety-related outcomes of hepatobiliary pancreatic (HBP) surgeries performed after establishment of the Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery (JSHBPS) board certification system for expert surgeons.

METHODS

We analyzed post-HBP surgery mortality data obtained from annual safety reports provided by board-certified training institutions between 2012 and 2015.

RESULTS

The 90-day mortality rate for the 53,929 high-level HBP surgeries performed at board-certified training institutions was 1.7%. The 30-day mortality rates for 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 were 0.9%, 0.7%, 0.6%, and 0.6%, respectively, and the 90-day mortality rates were 2.1%, 1.8%, 1.6%, and 1.3%, respectively, with significant decreases in both. The surgeries with high 4-year cumulative mortality rates were left hepatic trisectionectomy (10.3%), hepatopancreatectomy (7.6%), liver transplant recipient surgery (6.7%), hepatectomy with extrahepatic bile duct resection (4.6%), and right hepatic trisectionectomy (4.5%). Over the 4-year period, the number of operations increased, but the 90-day mortality rates for these surgeries, with the exception of right trisectionectomy, decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

The JSHBPS board certification system for expert surgeons has significantly decreased mortality subsequent to high-level HBP surgeries. Reducing mortality associated with high-risk HBP surgeries will be our next challenge.

Simultaneous resection for colorectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases is a safe procedure: Outcomes at a single center in Turkey

The optimal surgical strategy for treating colorectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases is subject to debate. The current study sought to evaluate the outcomes of simultaneous colorectal cancer and liver metastases resection in a single center. Prospectively collected data on all patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases who underwent simultaneous resection with curative intent were analyzed retrospectively. Patient outcomes were compared depending on the primary tumor location and type of liver resection (major or minor). Between January 2005 and August 2016, 108 patients underwent simultaneous resection of primary colorectal cancer and liver metastases. The tumor was localized to the right side of the colon in 24 patients (22%), to the left side in 40 (37%), and to the rectum in 44 (41%). Perioperative mortality occurred in 3 patients (3%). Postoperative complications were noted in 32 patients (30%), and most of these complications (75%) were grade 1 to 3 according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Neither perioperative mortality nor the rate of postoperative complications after simultaneous resection differed among patients with cancer of the right side of the colon, those with cancer of the left side of the colon, and those with rectal cancer (4%, 2.5%, and 2%, respectively, p = 0.89) and (17%, 33%, and 34%, respectively; p = 0.29)]. The 5-year overall survival of the entire sample was 54% and the 3-year overall survival was 67 %. In conclusion, simultaneous resection for primary colorectal cancer and liver metastases is a safe procedure and can be performed without excess morbidity in carefully selected patients regardless of the location of the primary tumor and type of hepatectomy.

Effect of Age on Liver Function in Patients Undergoing Partial Hepatectomy

BACKGROUND

Postresectional liver failure is the most frequent cause of fatal outcome following liver surgery. Diminished preoperative liver function in the elderly might contribute to this. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate preoperative liver function in patients <60 or >70 years of age scheduled for liver resection.

METHODS

All consecutive patients aged <60 or >70 years who are about to undergo elective liver surgery between 2011 and 2013 and underwent the methacetin breath liver function test (LiMAx) preoperatively were included. Histologic assessment of the resected liver gave insight into background liver disease. Correlation between age and liver function was calculated with Pearson's test.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients were included, 31 were aged <60 and 28 were aged >70 years. General patient characteristics and liver function LiMAx values (340 (137-594) vs. 349 (191-530) μg/kg/h, p = 0.699) were not significantly different between patients aged <60 and >70 years. Moreover, no correlation between age and preoperative liver function LiMAx values was found (R = 0.04, p = 0.810).

CONCLUSION

Liver function did not seem to differ between younger and older patients.

Liver metastases resection for gastric and esophageal tumors: is there enough evidence to go down this path?

INTRODUCTION

Surgical resection of liver metastases from colorectal and neuroendocrine tumours has become a standard of care for resectable patients with isolated hepatic disease and good performance status, leading to extended survival in a carefully selected subgroup of these patients. However, the role of hepatic surgery in gastric and oesophageal liver metastases is controversial and not clearly defined. Areas covered:a systematic electronic literature search was performed to select the most representative evidence regarding hepatectomies in liver metastases from these two tumours. PubMed, Medline, Embase Ovid and Google Scholar databases were scanned for articles written in English and published in peer-reviewed journals between 1994 and May 2016. Expert commentary: Given the shortage of randomised studies and the limited number of patients in many of the studies discussed here, the evidence base for the use of hepatectomies in these settings is not strong. Thus, while the data for resections of gastric liver metastases may in particular seem encouraging, the results should be interpreted with caution.

The significance of underlying cardiac comorbidity on major adverse cardiac events after major liver resection

BACKGROUND

The risk of postoperative adverse events in patients with underlying cardiac disease undergoing major hepatectomy remains poorly characterized.

METHODS

The NSQIP database was used to identify patients undergoing hemihepatectomy and trisectionectomy. Patient characteristics and postoperative outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

From 2005 to 2012, 5227 patients underwent major hepatectomy. Of those, 289 (5.5%) had prior major cardiac disease: 5.6% angina, 3.1% congestive heart failure, 1% myocardial infarction, 54% percutaneous coronary intervention, and 46% cardiac surgery. Thirty-day mortality was higher in patients with cardiac comorbidity (6.9% vs. 3.7%, P = 0.008), including the incidence of postoperative cardiac arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (3.8% vs. 1.2%, P = 0.001) and myocardial infarction (1.7% vs. 0.4%, P = 0.011). Multivariate analysis revealed that functional impairment, older age, and malnutrition, but not cardiac comorbidity, were significant predictors of 30-day mortality. However, prior percutaneous coronary intervention was independently associated with postoperative cardiac arrest (OR 2.999, P = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

While cardiac comorbidity is not a predictor of mortality after major hepatectomy, prior percutaneous coronary intervention is independently associated with postoperative cardiac arrest. Careful patient selection and preoperative optimization is fundamental in patients with prior percutaneous coronary intervention being considered for major hepatectomy as restrictive fluid management and low central venous pressure anesthesia may not be tolerated well by all patients.

An update on topical haemostatic agents in liver surgery: systematic review and meta analysis

Mortality and morbidity in hepatic surgery are affected by blood loss and transfusion. Topical haemostatic agents (THA) are composed by a matrix and/or fibrin sealants, and their association known as "carrier-bound fibrin sealant" (CBFS): despite widely used for secondary haemostasis, the level of evidence remains low. To realize a meta-analysis on the results of CBFS on haemostasis and postoperative complications. Searches in PubMed, PubMed Central, Cochrane and Google Scholar using keywords: "topical_haemostasis" OR "haemostatic_agents" OR "sealant_patch" OR "fibrin_sealant" OR "collagen_sealant" AND "liver_surgery" OR "hepatic_surgery" OR "liver_transplantation". Randomized clinical trials, large retrospective cohort studies, case control studies evaluating THA on open/laparoscopic liver surgery and transplantation. From 1993 to 2016 were found 22 studies for qualitative synthesis and 13 for quantitative meta-analysis. The time to haemostasis was lower in the CBFS group (mean difference -2.33 min; P = 0.00001). The risk of receiving blood transfusion, developing collections and bile leak was not influenced by the use of CBFS (OR 0.75; P = 0.25), (OR 0.72; P = 0.52), (OR 0.74; P = 0.30) respectively. The use of CBFS in liver surgery significantly reduce the time to haemostasis, but does not decrease transfusion, postoperative collection and bile leak.

Liver resection morbidity, mortality, and risk factors at the departments of hepatobiliary surgery in Veracruz, Mexico

INTRODUCTION

Liver resection has been associated with high morbidity and mortality, and the most serious complication is liver failure. Patient evaluation is limited to risk scales. The 50-50 criteria and bilirubin peak>7mg/dl have been used as mortality predictors.

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors associated with morbidity and mortality for liver resection in our population.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study was carried out on 51 patients that underwent liver resection. Sociodemographic variables, pathology, and the surgical act were analyzed, together with morbidity and mortality and their associated factors.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients, 23 men and 28 women, were analyzed. They had a mean age of 51.4±19.13 years, 64.7% had concomitant disease, and their mean MELD score was 7.49±1.79. The mean size of the resected lesions was 7.34±3.47cm, 51% were malignant, and 34 minor resections were performed. The Pringle maneuver was used in 64.7% of the cases and the mean blood loss was 1,090±121.76ml. Morbidity of 25.5% was associated with viral hepatitis infection, greater blood loss, transfusion requirement, the Pringle maneuver, lower hemoglobin and PTT values, and higher MELD, INR, bilirubin, and glucose values. A total 3.9% mortality was associated with hyperbilirubinemia, hyperglycemia, and greater blood loss and transfusions.

CONCLUSIONS

The main risk factors associated with the morbidity and mortality of liver resection in our population were those related to the preoperative biochemical parameters of the patient and the factors that occurred during the surgical act.

Liver resection for non-colorectal non-neuroendocrine metastases

OBJECTIVE

Liver resections for non-colorectal non-neuroendocrine liver metastases (NCNELM) are gaining popularity. This study examines the outcomes of liver resections in patients with NCNELM in an Australian hospital.

METHOD

A database search identified 21 attempted liver resections on 20 patients (12 men, eight women, mean age: 63.1) from 1998 to 2013. A retrospective analysis considered patient demographics and primary malignancy details. Complication rates were compared to those for colorectal metastases at the same institution. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to plot overall survival.

RESULTS

Complete resection was achieved in 16 of the 21 operations with 13 cases having proven metastases (three cases were benign lesions on final histology). Primary cancers were gastric (n = 4), gall bladder/bile duct (n = 3), renal (n = 3), soft tissue sarcoma (n = 3), melanoma (n = 2), pancreatic (n = 2), anal (n = 2), breast (n = 1) and unknown (n = 1). Primary histology types were adenocarcinoma (n = 10), sarcoma (n = 3), renal cell (n = 3), squamous cell (n = 2), melanoma (n = 2) and gastrointestinal stromal tumour (n = 1). There was no peri-operative mortality. Significant post-operative complications (Clavien-Dindo Grade III or more) occurred in six patients (28.5%). Overall survival at 2 and 5 years was 46.2% and 30.8%, respectively, for all 21 cases of attempted resection, and 51.9% and 34.6%, respectively, for the 13 cases of complete resection of malignant metastases.

CONCLUSIONS

This study produced comparable 5-year survival rates to those reported after liver resection for colorectal metastases and in other studies on NCNELM. Complication rates were comparable to those for colorectal liver metastasis resection at the same institution.

Effect of N-acetylcysteine on liver recovery after resection: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Liver failure following hepatic resection is a multifactorial complication. In experimental studies, infusion of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can minimize hepatic parenchymal injury.

METHODS

Patients undergoing liver resection were randomized to postoperative care with or without NAC. No blinding was performed. Overall complication rate was the primary outcome; liver failure, length of stay, and mortality were secondary outcomes. Due to safety concerns, a premature multivariate analysis was performed and included within the model randomization to NAC, preoperative ASA, extent of resection, and intraoperative vascular occlusion as factors.

RESULTS

Two hundred and six patients were randomized (110 to conventional therapy; 96 to NAC). No significant differences were noted in overall complications (32.7% and 45.7%, P = 0.06) or hepatic failure (3.6% and 5.4%, P = 0.537) between treatment groups. There was significantly more delirium within the NAC group (2.7% and 9.8%, P < 0.05) that caused early trial termination. In multivariate analysis, only randomization to NAC (OR = 2.21, 95%CI = 1.16-4.19) and extensive resections (OR = 2.28, 95%CI = 1.22-4.29) were predictive of postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients randomized to postoperative NAC received no benefit. There was a trend toward a higher rate of overall complications and a significantly higher rate of delirium in the NAC group. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:446-450. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The impact of major intraoperative adverse events on hospital readmissions

BACKGROUND

Hospital-wide readmission rates recently became a recognized benchmarking quality metric. We sought to study the independent impact of major intraoperative adverse events (iAEs) on 30-day readmission in abdominal surgery.

METHODS

The 2007 to 2012 institutional American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and administrative databases for abdominal operations were matched then screened for iAEs using the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification-based Patient Safety Indicator "Accidental Puncture/Laceration". Flagged charts were reviewed to confirm the presence of iAEs. Major iAEs were defined as class 3 or above, as per our recently validated iAE Classification System. The inpatient database was queried for readmission within 30 days from discharge. Univariate and multivariable models were constructed to analyze the independent impact of major iAEs on readmission, controlling for demographics, comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiology class, and procedure type/approach/complexity (using relative value units as proxy). Reasons for readmission were investigated using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification-based Clinical Classification Software.

RESULTS

Of 9,274 surgical procedures; 921 resulted in readmission (9.9%), 183 had confirmed iAEs, 73 of which were major iAEs. Procedures with major iAEs had a higher readmission rate compared with procedures with no iAEs [24.7% vs 9.8%, P < .001]. In multivariable analyses, major iAEs were independently associated with a 2-fold increase in readmission rates [OR = 2.17 (95% CI = 1.22 to 3.86); P = .008]; 67% of readmissions after major iAEs were caused by "complications of surgical procedures or medical care" as defined by Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Major iAEs are independently associated with increased rates of 30-day readmission. Preventing iAEs or mitigating their effects can serve as a quality improvement target to decrease surgical readmissions.

Future remnant liver function estimated by combining liver volumetry on magnetic resonance imaging with total liver function on (99m)Tc-mebrofenin hepatobiliary scintigraphy: can this tool predict post-hepatectomy liver failure?

INTRODUCTION

Posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is a major complication after hepatectomy with a high mortality rate and is likely to happen in insufficient liver remnant. We hypothesize that assessment of the estimated future liver remnant function (eFLRF), combining future remnant liver volume (FLRV) with total liver function (TLF), is an accurate formula for prediction of PHLF.

METHODS

88 patients undergoing hepatectomy were included. The ratio of the future liver remnant volume (FLRV%) was measured on MRI. TLF was estimated by liver clearance of (99m)Technetium (Tc)-mebrofenin on hepatobiliary scintigraphy (HBS). eFLRF was calculated by multiplying FLRV% by TLF. Cut-off values of FLRV% and eFLRF predicting PHLF, were defined by receiver-operating-characteristic (ROC) analysis.

RESULTS

PHLF occurred in 12 patients (13%). Perioperative mortality was 5/12 (41%). Multivariate analysis showed that FLRV% cut off at 40% was not an independent predictive factor. eFLRF cut off at 2.3%/min/m(2) was the only independent predictive factor for PHLF. For FLRV% vs. eFLRF, positive predictive value was 41% vs. 92% and Odds Ratio 26 vs. 836.

CONCLUSION

FRLF measured by combining FLRV% and TLF is a more valuable tool to predict PHLF than FLRV% alone. The cutoff of eFLRF can be used in clinical decision making.

Acute kidney injury following hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma: incidence, risk factors and prognostic value

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) following hepatectomy remains understudied in terms of diagnosis, severity, recovery and prognostic value. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors and prognostic value of AKI on short- and long-term outcomes following hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHOD

This is a retrospective analysis of a single-center cohort of 457 consecutive patients who underwent hepatectomy for HCC. The KDIGO criteria were used for AKI diagnosis. The incidence, risk factors, and prognostic value of AKI were investigated.

RESULTS

AKI occurred in 67 patients (15%). The mortality and major morbidity rates were significantly higher in patients with AKI (37% and 69%) than in those without (6% and 22%; p < 0.001). Renal recovery was complete in 35 (52%), partial in 25 (37%), and absent in 7 (11%) patients. Advanced age, an increased MELD score, major hepatectomy and prolonged duration of operation were identified as independent predictors of AKI. AKI was identified as the strongest independent predictor of postoperative mortality but did not impact survival.

CONCLUSION

AKI is a common complication after hepatectomy for HCC. Although its development is associated with poor short-term outcomes, it does not appear to be predictive of impaired long-term survival.

Liver Resection for Non-colorectal Non-neuroendocrine Metastases: Where Do We Stand Today Compared to Colorectal Cancer?

The continuing controversy about surgery for non-colorectal non-neuroendocrine liver metastases (NCRNNE) necessitates identifying risk factors of worsened outcomes to improve patient selection and survival. Prospectively collected data of 167 patients undergoing hepatectomy for NCRNNE were analyzed, and a comparison to a matched population of colorectal liver metastases (CLM) was performed. Overall survival (OS) (35 vs. 54 months; P = 0.008) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) (15 vs. 29 months; P = 0.004) of NCRNNE patients were significantly shorter compared to those with CLM. The best survival was found in the genitourinary (GU; OS, 45 months; RFS, 21 months) NCRNNE subgroup, whereas survival for gastrointestinal (GI) metastases was low (OS, 8 months; RFS, 7 months). Patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) showed excellent outcomes when compared to CLM (OS, 50 vs. 51 months; P = 0.901). Extrahepatic disease (EHD) was identified as independent prognostic factor for reducing both RFS (P = 0.040) and OS (P = 0.046). The number of liver lesions (P = 0.024), residual tumor (P = 0.025), and major complications (P = 0.048) independently diminished OS. The degree of survival advantage by surgery is determined by the primary tumor site, EHD, the number of metastases, and residual tumor. Thus-even more than in CLM-these oncological selection criteria must prevail. GU metastases, especially RCC, represent a favorable subgroup.

Clinical score to predict the risk of bile leakage after liver resection

Background

In liver resection, bile leakage remains the most common cause of operative morbidity. In order to predict the risk of this complication on the basis of various factors, we developed a clinical score system to predict the potential risk of bile leakage after liver resection.

Methods

We analyzed the postoperative course in 518 patients who underwent liver resection for malignancy to identify independent predictors of bile leakage, which was defined as “a drain fluid bilirubin concentration at least three times the serum bilirubin concentration on or after postoperative day 3,” as proposed by the International Study Group of Liver Surgery. To confirm the robustness of the risk score system for bile leakage, we analyzed the independent series of 289 patients undergoing liver resection for malignancy.

Results

Among 81 (15.6 %) patients with bile leakage, 76 had grade A bile leakage, and five had grade C leakage and underwent reoperation. The median postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in patients with bile leakage (median, 14 days; range, 8 to 34) than in those without bile leakage (11 days; 5 to 62; P = 0.001). There was no hepatic insufficiency or in-hospital death. The risk score model was based on the four independent predictors of postoperative bile leakage: non-anatomical resection (odds ratio, 3.16; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.72 to 6.07; P < 0.001), indocyanine green clearance rate (2.43; 1.32 to 7.76; P = 0.004), albumin level (2.29; 1.23 to 4.22; P = 0.01), and weight of resected specimen (1.97; 1.11 to 3.51; P = 0.02). When this risk score system was used to assign patients to low-, middle-, and high-risk groups, the frequency of bile leakage in the high-risk group was 2.64 (95 % CI, 1.12 to 6.41; P = 0.04) than that in the low-risk group. Among the independent series for validation, 4 (5.7 %), 16 (10.0 %), and 10 (16.6 %) patients in low-, middle, and high-risk groups were given a diagnosis of bile leakage after operation, respectively (P = 0.144).

Conclusions

Our risk score model can be used to predict the risk of bile leakage after liver resection.

Effect of a Perioperative Nutritional Supplementation with Oral Impact® in Patients undergoing Hepatic Surgery for Liver Cancer: A Prospective, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized, Double-Blind Study

Perioperative nutrition with supplements containing L-arginine, ω3-polyunsaturated fatty acids, and nucleotides could boost liver function recovery, immune response, and resistance to infection after hepatic resection. We conducted a placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind study to assess the effect of a perioperative nutritional supplementation with Oral Impact® in patients undergoing hepatic surgery for liver cancer. Treatment was given three times daily for 7 days before and 3 days after surgery. Primary outcome was factor V, 3 days after surgery. Thirty-five patients (placebo: 17; Oral Impact: 18) were included. Five patients (placebo: three; Oral Impact: two) were not operated and five (placebo: two; Oral Impact: three) did not undergo hepatic resection. Factor V (mean ± SD) was 70 ± 27% and 79 ± 25% (P = 0.409) 3 days after surgery and 90 ± 30% and 106 ± 16% (P = 0.066) 5 days after surgery, in placebo and Oral Impact groups, respectively. There were no significant differences between groups on other outcomes assessing liver function recovery (bile production, γ-glutamyl transferase, α-fetoprotein), immune response (CD3, CD4, CD8 cells, CD4/CD8 ratio, natural killer cells, B lymphocytes), number of infections, and tolerance. A 10-day perioperative nutritional supplementation with Oral Impact does not improve hepatic function, immune response, and resistance to infection in patients undergoing hepatic surgery for liver cancer.

The relationship of blood transfusion with peri-operative and long-term outcomes after major hepatectomy for metastatic colorectal cancer: a multi-institutional study of 456 patients

BACKGROUND

Data on prognostic implications of peri-operative blood transfusion around resection of colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM) are conflicting. This retrospective study assesses the association of transfusion with complications and disease-specific survival (DSS).

METHODS

Major hepatectomies for CRLM from 2000 to 2010 at three institutions were included. Transfusion was analyzed based on timing and volume.

RESULTS

Of 456 patients, 140 (30.7%) received transfusions. Transfusion was associated with extended hepatectomy (28.6 vs 18.4%; p = 0.020), tumor size (5.7 vs 4.2 cm; p < 0.001), and operative blood loss (917 vs 390 mL; p < 0.001). Transfusion was independently associated with major complications (OR 2.61; 95% CI: 1.53-4.44; p < 0.001). Transfusion at any time was not associated with DSS; however, patients who specifically received blood post-operatively had reduced DSS (37.4 vs 42.7 months; p = 0.044). Increased volume of transfusion (≥3 units) was also associated with shortened DSS (Total: 37.4 vs 41.5 months, p = 0.018; Post-operative: 27.2 vs 40.3 months, p = 0.015). On multivariate analysis, however, transfusion was not independently associated with worsened DSS, regardless of timing and volume.

CONCLUSION

Transfusion with major hepatectomy for colorectal cancer metastases is independently associated with increased complications but not disease-specific survival. Judicious use of transfusion per a blood utilization protocol in the peri-operative period is warranted.

Short-term outcomes after liver resection for malignant and benign disease in the age of ERAS

INTRODUCTION

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols have been implemented effectively after liver resection and provide benefits in terms of general morbidity rates. In order to optimise peri-operative care protocols and minimise morbidity, further investigation is required to identify factors associated with poor outcome after liver resection.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing liver resection and enhanced recovery care between January 2006 and September 2012 was conducted. Data were collected on patient outcome and demographics, operative and pathological details. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine independent predictors of adverse outcome.

RESULTS

603 patients underwent liver resection during the study period. Morbidity and mortality rates were 34.3% and 1.5% respectively. The only predictor of major morbidity was extended resection (OR 4.079; 95% CI 2.177-7.642).

CONCLUSIONS

Extended resection is associated with major morbidity. When determining optimum peri-operative care, ERAS protocols must incorporate care components that can mitigate against morbidity associated with extended resection.

Preoperative selection of patients with colorectal cancer liver metastasis for hepatic resection

Surgical resection of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) has a well-documented improvement in survival. To benefit from this intervention, proper selection of patients who would be adequate surgical candidates becomes vital. A combination of imaging techniques may be utilized in the detection of the lesions. The criteria for resection are continuously evolving; currently, the requirements that need be met to undergo resection of CRLM are: the anticipation of attaining a negative margin (R0 resection), whilst maintaining an adequate functioning future liver remnant. The timing of hepatectomy in regards to resection of the primary remains controversial; before, after, or simultaneously. This depends mainly on the tumor burden and symptoms from the primary tumor. The role of chemotherapy differs according to the resectability of the liver lesion(s); no evidence of improved survival was shown in patients with resectable disease who received preoperative chemotherapy. Presence of extrahepatic disease in itself is no longer considered a reason to preclude patients from resection of their CRLM, providing limited extra-hepatic disease, although this currently is an area of active investigations. In conclusion, we review the indications, the adequate selection of patients and perioperative factors to be considered for resection of colorectal liver metastasis.