Timing of cholecystectomy after mild biliary pancreatitis

Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy in acute mild gallstone pancreatitis. Is there a role for routine admission contrast-enhanced CT Scan?

PURPOSE

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of admission contrast-enhanced CT scans in formulating strategies for performing early laparoscopic cholecystectomy in cases of acute gallstone pancreatitis.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with acute gallstone pancreatitis underwent a CT scan upon admission (after at least 24 h from symptom onset) to confirm diagnosis and assess peripancreatic fluid, collections, gallstones, and common bile duct stones. Patients with mild acute gallstone pancreatitis, following the Atlanta classification and Baltazar score A or B, were identified as candidates for early cholecystectomy (within 72 h of admission).

RESULTS

Within the analyzed period, 272 patients were diagnosed with mild acute gallstone pancreatitis according to the Atlanta Guidelines. A total of 33 patients (12.1%) were excluded: 17 (6.25%) due to SIRS, 10 (3.6%) due to local complications identified in CT (Balthazar D/E), and 6 (2.2%) due to severe comorbidities. Enhanced CT scans accurately detected gallstones, common bile duct stones, pancreatic enlargement, inflammation, pancreatic collections, and peripancreatic fluid. Among the cohort, 239 patients were selected for early laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Routine intraoperative cholangiogram was conducted in all cases, and where choledocholithiasis was present, successful treatment occurred through common bile duct exploration. Only one case required conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery. There were no observed severe complications or mortality.

CONCLUSION

Admission CT scans are instrumental in identifying clinically stable patients with local tomographic complications that contraindicate early surgery. Patients meeting the criteria for mild acute gallstone pancreatitis, as per Atlanta guidelines, without SIRS or local complications (Baltazar D/E), can safely undergo early cholecystectomy within the initial 72 h of admission.

Contemporary management of acute pancreatitis: What you need to know

ABSTRACT

Acute pancreatitis and management of its complications is a common consult for the acute care surgeon. With the ongoing development of both operative and endoscopic treatment modalities, management recommendations continue to evolve. We describe the current diagnostic and treatment guidelines for acute pancreatitis through the lens of acute care surgery. Topics, including optimal nutrition, timing of cholecystectomy in gallstone pancreatitis, and the management of peripancreatic fluid collections, are discussed. Although the management severe acute pancreatitis can include advanced interventional modalities including endoscopic, percutaneous, and surgical debridement, the initial management of acute pancreatitis includes fluid resuscitation, early enteral nutrition, and close monitoring with consideration of cross-sectional imaging and antibiotics in the setting of suspected superimposed infection. Several scoring systems including the Revised Atlanta Criteria, the Bedside Index for Severity in Acute Pancreatitis score, and the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma grade have been devised to classify and predict the development of the severe acute pancreatitis. In biliary pancreatitis, cholecystectomy prior to discharge is recommended in mild disease and within 8 weeks of necrotizing pancreatitis, while early peripancreatic fluid collections should be managed without intervention. Underlying infection or ongoing symptoms warrant delayed intervention with technique selection dependent on local expertise, anatomic location of the fluid collection, and the specific clinical scenario. Landmark trials have shifted therapy from maximally invasive necrosectomy to more minimally invasive step-up approaches. The acute care surgeon should maintain a skill set that includes these minimally invasive techniques to successfully manage these patients. Overall, the management of acute pancreatitis for the acute care surgeon requires a strong understanding of both the clinical decisions and the options for intervention should this be necessary.

Impact of hospital characteristics on best-practice adherence for gallstone pancreatitis: a nationwide analysis

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines recommend cholecystectomy during the index admission for gallstone pancreatitis, and a growing body of evidence indicates that patients benefit from cholecystectomy within the first 48 h of admission. We examined the impact of hospital characteristics on adherence to these data-driven practices.

METHODS

We queried the National Inpatient Sample for patients admitted for gallstone pancreatitis between October 2015 and December 2018. Patients who underwent same-admission cholecystectomy were identified by procedure codes. Cholecystectomies within the first two days were classified as early cholecystectomies. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association between hospital characteristics and adherence to these practices.

RESULTS

Of 163,390 admissions for gallstone pancreatitis, only 90,790 (55.6%) underwent cholecystectomy before discharge. Mean time from admission to cholecystectomy was 2.9 days; 27.0% of patients (44,005) underwent early cholecystectomy. Odds of same-admission cholecystectomy were highest in large hospitals (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.13-1.28), urban teaching centers (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.21-1.46), and the South (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.57-1.83). Odds of early cholecystectomy did not vary with hospital size, urban-rural status, or teaching status but were highest in the West (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.80-2.18).

CONCLUSION

Best-practice adherence for cholecystectomy in gallstone pancreatitis remains low despite an abundance of evidence and clinical practice guidelines. Active interventions are needed to improve delivery of surgical care for this patient population. Implementation efforts should focus on small hospitals, rural areas, and health systems in the Northeast region.

Disparities in uptake of cholecystectomy for idiopathic pancreatitis: A nationwide retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The majority of cases of idiopathic acute pancreatitis (IAP) are thought to result from occult biliary disease. A growing body of evidence suggests that cholecystectomy for IAP reduces the risk of recurrence by up to two thirds. This study examined nationwide uptake and disparities in adoption of cholecystectomy for IAP.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample was queried to identify admissions for IAP between October 2015 and December 2018. Patients who underwent cholecystectomy before discharge and those that did not were compared using Wald χ² tests for categorical variables and Student's t test for continuous variables. Patient- and hospital-level predictors of cholecystectomy were identified using weighted multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 62,305 estimated admissions for IAP, only 665 (1.1%) underwent cholecystectomy before discharge. Female sex, initiation of total parenteral nutrition (TPN), insurance status, and hospital type were associated with cholecystectomy on univariable analysis. On multivariable analysis, Hispanic patients (odds ration [OR] 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-2.56), patients on TPN (OR 2.70, 95% CI 1.17-6.24), and those with private insurance (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.48-3.21 versus Medicare/Medicaid) were more likely to receive operations. Small hospitals and hospitals in rural areas were least likely to perform empiric cholecystectomies.

CONCLUSION

Despite increasing evidence supporting cholecystectomy after IAP, the practice remains rare in the United States. Educational efforts and active implementation efforts are needed to promote adoption. Particular attention should be focused on small, rural centers and those that disproportionately care for uninsured patients and patients with public insurance.

Optimal timing of cholecystectomy after necrotising biliary pancreatitis

OBJECTIVE

Following an episode of acute biliary pancreatitis, cholecystectomy is advised to prevent recurrent biliary events. There is limited evidence regarding the optimal timing and safety of cholecystectomy in patients with necrotising biliary pancreatitis.

DESIGN

A post hoc analysis of a multicentre prospective cohort. Patients with biliary pancreatitis and a CT severity score of three or more were included in 27 Dutch hospitals between 2005 and 2014. Primary outcome was the optimal timing of cholecystectomy in patients with necrotising biliary pancreatitis, defined as: the optimal point in time with the lowest risk of recurrent biliary events and the lowest risk of complications of cholecystectomy. Secondary outcomes were the number of recurrent biliary events, periprocedural complications of cholecystectomy and the protective value of endoscopic sphincterotomy for the recurrence of biliary events.

RESULTS

Overall, 248 patients were included in the analysis. Cholecystectomy was performed in 191 patients (77%) at a median of 103 days (P25-P75: 46-222) after discharge. Infected necrosis after cholecystectomy occurred in four (2%) patients with persistent peripancreatic collections. Before cholecystectomy, 66 patients (27%) developed biliary events. The risk of overall recurrent biliary events prior to cholecystectomy was significantly lower before 10 weeks after discharge (risk ratio 0.49 (95% CI 0.27 to 0.90); p=0.02). The risk of recurrent pancreatitis before cholecystectomy was significantly lower before 8 weeks after discharge (risk ratio 0.14 (95% CI 0.02 to 1.0); p=0.02). The complication rate of cholecystectomy did not decrease over time. Endoscopic sphincterotomy did not reduce the risk of recurrent biliary events (OR 1.40 (95% CI 0.74 to 2.83)).

CONCLUSION

The optimal timing of cholecystectomy after necrotising biliary pancreatitis, in the absence of peripancreatic collections, is within 8 weeks after discharge.

Endoscopic Sphincterotomy for Cholecysto-Choledocholithiasis Complicates Subsequent Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Retrospective Report From Sri Lanka

Objective: Published literature so far has supported the fact that patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography and sphincterotomy (ERCPS) had a difficult perioperative course after subsequent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Through a retrospective study, this original report mentions statistics in a Southeast Asian population comparing the effect on conversion to open surgery in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy after ERCPS in a university hospital in Sri Lanka.

Methods: The results of 205 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy and 85 patients who were converted to open surgery between 2016 and 2018 were analyzed to find out whether ERCPS is a risk factor for conversion or subsequent perioperative morbidity.

Results: Demographics like age, gender and previous abdominal surgeries were comparable between the two groups. Cholecysto-choledocholithiasis and undergoing ERCPS for it were significant factors associated with conversion to open cholecystectomy.

Conclusion: Performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy after ERCPS for cholecysto-choledocholithiasis is a significant challenge and preferably should be often handled by a more experienced surgeon.

[Indications for Surgical and Interventional Therapy of Acute Pancreatitis]

BACKGROUND

15 to 20% of patients with acute pancreatitis develop necrosis of the pancreatic parenchyma or extrapancreatic tissue. The disease is associated with a mortality rate of up to 20%. The mainstays of treatment consist of intensive medical care and surgical and interventional therapy.

METHODS

A systematic literature search focused on indications for surgical and interventional therapy of necrotising pancreatitis. 85 articles were analysed for this review. By using the Delphi method, the results were presented to the quality committee for pancreas diseases of the German Society for General and Visceral Surgery and to expert pancreatologists in an interactive conference using plenary voting during the visceral medicine congress 2019 in Wiesbaden. For the finalised recommendations, an agreement of 84% of participants was achieved.

RESULTS

Documented or clinical suspicion of infected, necrotising pancreatitis are indications for surgical and interventional therapy (recommendation grade: strong; evidence grade; low). Sterile necrosis is a less common indication for intervention due to late complications or persistent severe pancreatitis. Invasive interventions should be delayed when possible until four weeks after onset of pancreatitis. Optimal treatment strategy consists of a "step-up approach" (evidence grade: high; recommendation grade: strong). The first step is catheter drainage, followed, if necessary, by minimally invasive surgical or interventional necrosectomy. If minimally invasive techniques do not result in clinical improvement, open necrosectomy is necessary. 35 to 50% of patients are successfully treated with drainage alone. Indications for emergency intervention are bowel perforation, bowel ischemia and bleeding. Surgical decompression of abdominal compartment syndrome is indicated if the patient is refractory to medical treatment and percutaneous drainage. Abscesses and symptomatic pseudocysts are indications for interventional drainage. Early cholecystectomy during index admission is recommended for patients with mild biliary pancreatitis. Cholecystectomy should be delayed after severe, biliary pancreatitis.

CONCLUSION

The recommendations for surgical an interventional therapy of necrotising pancreatitis address the basis of current indications in literature. They should serve in daily practice as a reference standard for decision making in multidisciplinary teams.

Classification, Severity Assessment, and Prevention of Recurrences in Acute Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis is a common disease, the incidence of which is 75-100/100,000/year in Finland. The worldwide incidence of acute pancreatitis is increasing. The identified mildcases usually show rapid recovery with conservative treatment allowing early discharge. Severe cases need early intensive care to reduce the risk of serious complications such as multi-organ failure. The revised Atlanta classification of acute pancreatitis was introduced in 2012-2013. A recurrent acute pancreatitis is defined as two or more well-documented separate attacks of acute pancreatitis with complete resolution in between. Alcoholic pancreatitis is the most common recurrent acute pancreatitis type.

METHODS

In this review current severity classifications and literature on the prevention of recurrent acute pancreatitis are analyzed.

RESULTS

The severity of the disease is classified as mild, moderately severe, and severe acute pancreatitis. Novel entities include acute peripancreatic fluid collections in mild acute pancreatitis and acute necrotic collections in necrotizing acute pancreatitis lesser than 4 weeks after the onset and pancreatic pseudocyst in mild acute pancreatitis and walled-off necrosis in necrotizing acute pancreatitis more than 4 weeks after the onset of the disease. After the first attack of alcohol-induced acute pancreatitis, 46% of the patients develop at least one recurrence within 10- to 20-year follow-up. With repeated intervention against alcohol consumption, it is possible to reduce the recurrences. Removing the gall bladder after biliary pancreatitis is the key preventing recurrences. In mild cases, even during the index admission; in severe cases, it is recommended to wait until the inflammatory changes have resolved. Of total, 59% of the idiopathic pancreatitis had sludge of stones in the gall bladder. In other etiologies, addressing the etiological factor may prevent recurrent acute pancreatitis.

CONCLUSIONS

This review describes current use of novel severity classifications and also different possibilities to prevent recurrent acute pancreatitis with different etiologies including idiopathic.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in acute mild gallstone pancreatitis: how early is safe?

The surgical strategy to resolve the underlying biliary pathology in patients with acute gallstone pancreatitis (AGP) remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) in patients with mild AGP. A retrospective cohort of consecutive patients diagnosed with mild AGP according to the Atlanta Guidelines from January 2009 to July 2019 was selected. Patients were assigned to surgery on the first available surgical shift, 48 h after the symptoms onset. Univariate analysis was performed to determine the association between AGP and grades of Balthazar (A, B and C) with time to surgery, days of hospitalization and postoperative complications. From 239 patients evaluated, 238 (99.58%) were operated by laparoscopic approach. Intraoperative cholangiogram was performed routinely. Choledocholithiasis, if present, was successfully treated by laparoscopic common bile duct exploration in all cases. A significant association was found between Balthazar grades and time to surgery (median of 3 days, p = 0.003), with length hospitalization and from surgery to discharge, with median of 4 days (p = 0.0001) and 2 days (p = 0.003), respectively. Mild postoperative complications (CD I/II) were observed in 22/239 patients (9.2%). This represents 2% of patients with grade A of Balthazar, 9% of grade B and 14% of grade C (p = 0.016). We observed no severe complications or mortality. ELC with routine intraoperative cholangiogram, performed on the first available surgical shift 48 h after the symptoms of pancreatitis onset, is a viable, effective and safe strategy for the resolution of mild AGP and its underlying biliary pathology in a single procedure.

Same-Admission Cholecystectomy Compared with Delayed Cholecystectomy in Acute Gallstone Pancreatitis: Outcomes and Predictors in a Safety Net Hospital Cohort

OBJECTIVES

Recent studies have shown a decrease in gallstone-related complications if same-admission cholecystectomy (SAC) is performed in mild gallstone pancreatitis (GSP); however, SAC often is not performed in resource-limited settings such as safety net hospitals. The aims of this study were to evaluate the rate of SAC and compare a composite endpoint of recurrent biliary events in patients undergoing SAC with patients in the delayed cholecystectomy (DC) group. Secondary aims included evaluating the rate of recurrent pancreatitis in patients in the DC group, identifying the predictors for DC and the reasons for not undergoing SAC.

METHODS

We reviewed 310 patients admitted in the past 5 years with the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Eighty patients were admitted for gallstone pancreatitis; 75% were African American, 18% were white, and the average age was 44 years with a mean body mass index of 30. Forty patients did not receive cholecystectomy before discharge. The DC and SAC groups were similar in body mass index, ethnicity, severity of pancreatitis, and complications.

RESULTS

The DC group was significantly more likely to be older and with higher comorbidity indexes compared with the SAC group. Bedside Index of Severity in Acute Pancreatitis scores and revised Atlanta classification definitions were used to define severe acute pancreatitis; 10% (4) of patients had organ failure at 48 hours, whereas 17.5% (7) had a Bedside Index of Severity in Acute Pancreatitis scores ≥3. A total of 14 recurrent biliary events occurred in the DC group (14 of 40), which was 35% compared with 2 of 40 (5%) in the SAC group (P < 0.001). Of the 9 patients who developed recurrent pancreatitis, 8 were in the DC group (8 of 40, 20%, P = 0.02). Of the 40 patients in the DC group, only 14 patients eventually received a cholecystectomy documented in our hospital, with median-length postdischarge follow-up of approximately 6.5 months. On regression analysis, a Charlson Comorbidity Index >2 was the only significant predictor of DC. The most common reason for DC was no surgical consultation during the inpatient stay (22%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support existing evidence that DC is associated with a significantly increased risk of recurrent biliary events and pancreatitis. Furthermore, we report a 56% adherence to the current guidelines for SAC and report that the most common reason for not undergoing SAC was the absence of surgical consultation. We conclude that ensuring SAC in eligible patients should be a priority for safety net hospitals because it may help decrease hospital costs in the long term, and active efforts should be made to identify patients who may be less likely to receive SAC.

The optimal timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with mild gallstone pancreatitis: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The optimal timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in patients with mild acute gallstone pancreatitis (MAGP) is controversial. The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate and compare the safety and efficacy of early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) and delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DLC) in patients with MAGP.

METHODS

A strict search was conducted of the electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE Embase, the ISI Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for all relevant English literature and RevMan5.3 software for statistical analysis was used.

RESULTS

A total of 19 studies comprising 2639 patients were included. There was no significant difference in intraoperative complications [risk ratio (RR) = 1.46; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.88-2.41; P = .14)], postoperative complications (RR = 0.81; 95% CI = 0.58-1.14; P = .23), rate of conversion to open cholecystectomy (RR = 1.00; 95% CI = 0.75-1.33; P = .99), operative time (MD = 1.60; 95% CI = -1.36-4.56; P = .29), and rate of readmission (RR = 0.63; 95% CI = 0.19-2.10; P = .45) between the ELC and DLC groups. However, the ELC group was significantly correlated with lower length of hospital stay (MD = -2.01; 95% CI = -3.15 to -0.87; P = .0006), fewer gallstone-related events rates (RR = 0.17; 95% CI = 0.07-0.44; P = .0003), and lower endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) usage (RR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.71-0.97; P = .02) compared with the DLC group.

CONCLUSION

Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safe and effective for patients with MAGP, but the indications and contraindications must be strictly controlled.

Meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials of early versus delayed cholecystectomy for mild gallstone pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Gallstones account for 30-50 per cent of all presentations of acute pancreatitis. While the management of acute pancreatitis is usually supportive, definitive treatment of gallstone pancreatitis is cholecystectomy. Guidelines from the British Society of Gastroenterology suggest definitive treatment on index admission or within 2 weeks of discharge, whereas joint recommendations from the International Association of Pancreatology and the American Pancreatic Association recommend definitive treatment on index admission. Evidence suggests that uptake of these guidelines is low.

METHODS

Embase, MEDLINE and Cochrane databases were searched for RCTs investigating early versus delayed cholecystectomy in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of mild gallstone pancreatitis. The pooled synthesis was undertaken using a random-effects meta-analysis of the primary outcome of recurrent biliary complications causing hospital readmission. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative and postoperative complications, and total length of hospital stay (LOS). All analyses were performed using RevMan5 software.

RESULTS

Five RCTs were identified, which included 629 patients (318 in the early cholecystectomy (EC) group and 311 in the delayed cholecystectomy (DC) group). Recurrent biliary events that required readmission were reduced in patients undergoing EC compared with the number in patients having DC (odds ratio (OR) 0·17, 95 per cent c.i. 0·09 to 0·33). There was no difference in the rate of intraoperative (OR 0·58, 0·17 to 1·92) or postoperative (OR 0·78, 0·38 to 1·62) complications.

CONCLUSION

EC following mild gallstone pancreatitis does not increase the risk of intraoperative or postoperative complications, but reduces the readmission rate for recurrent biliary complications.

Cholecystectomy During Index Admission for Acute Biliary Pancreatitis Lowers 30-Day Readmission Rates

OBJECTIVES

Few studies have evaluated national readmission rates after acute pancreatitis (AP) in the United States. We sought to evaluate modifiable factors impacting 30-day readmissions after AP hospitalizations.

METHODS

We used the Nationwide Readmission Database (2013) involving all adults with a primary discharge diagnosis of AP. Multivariable logistic regression models assessed independent predictors for specific outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 180,480 patients with AP index admissions, 41,094 (23%) had biliary AP, of which 10.5% were readmitted within 30 days. The 30-day readmission rate for patients who underwent same-admission cholecystectomy (CCY) was 6.5%, compared with 15.1% in those who did not (P < 0.001). Failure of index admission CCY increased the risk of readmissions (odds ratio [OR], 2.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.04-2.56). Same-admission CCY occurred in 55% (n = 19,274) of patients without severe AP. Severe AP (OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.65-0.81), sepsis (OR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.52-0.75), 3 or more comorbidities (OR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.68-0.79), and admissions to small (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.64-0.91) or rural (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.65-0.95) hospitals were less likely to undergo same-admission CCY.

CONCLUSIONS

Same-admission CCY should be considered in patients with biliary AP when feasible. This national appraisal recognizes modifiable risk factors to reduce readmission in biliary AP and reinforces adherence to major society guidelines.

Colicky pain and related complications after cholecystectomy for mild gallstone pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Same-admission cholecystectomy is advised after gallstone pancreatitis to prevent recurrent pancreatitis, colicky pain and other complications, but data on the incidence of symptoms and complications after cholecystectomy are lacking.

METHODS

This was a prospective cohort study during the previously published randomized controlled PONCHO trial on timing of cholecystectomy after mild gallstone pancreatitis. Data on healthcare consumption and questionnaires focusing on colicky pain and biliary complications were obtained during 6 months after cholecystectomy. Main outcomes were (i) postoperative colicky pain as reported in questionnaires and (ii) medical treatment for postoperative symptoms and gallstone related complications.

RESULTS

Among 262 patients who underwent cholecystectomy after mild gallstone pancreatitis, 28 of 191 patients (14.7%) reported postoperative colicky pain. The majority of these were reported within 2 months after surgery and were single events. Overall, 25 patients (9.5%) required medical treatment for symptoms or gallstone related complications. Acute readmission was required in seven patients (2.7%). No predictors for the development of postoperative colicky pain were identified.

DISCUSSION

Some 15% of patients experienced colicky pain after cholecystectomy for mild gallstone pancreatitis, which were mostly single events and rarely required readmission. These data may be used to better inform patients undergoing cholecystectomy for mild gallstone pancreatitis.

Selective Antegrade Biliary Stenting Aids Emergency Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Background: Symptomatic gall stone disease requires early emergency treatment to prevent complications. This early treatment is often delayed due to difficulty in the diagnosis and management of concomitant choledocholithiasis. Intervention with preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is associated with complications and known to be unnecessary in most cases. We follow a strategy of providing early cholecystectomy with selective utility of antegrade stent in cases of choledocholithiasis. Our main aim is to present our technique and results. Method: We conducted a 3-year (January 2014 to January 2017) review of a prospectively maintained database of our practice of performing routine intraoperative cholangiogram (IOC) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and when choledocholithiasis is encountered on IOC; a transcystic antegrade biliary stent is inserted to decompress the common bile ducts (CBD) and facilitate postoperative ERCP at later date. Results: Of the 411 cholecystectomies performed, 77.3% were females with mean age of 48 years. Seventy-four patients were found to have CBD stones (CBDS) on IOC. Antegrade stents were successfully deployed in 69 cases. Even though Antegrade stents were done more frequently in emergency admissions (P = .001); this did not increase the length of hospital stay (LOHS) (P = .752) or the rate of complications (P = .171). However, doing a preoperative ERCP significantly increased LOHS (P = .001), and 67% of these needed two or more ERCP for complete clearance of CBD and had more complications. Nine (15.2%) out of 59 patients with pancreatitis had CBDS on IOC and were successfully managed with antegrade stent. Conclusion: This strategy can be followed by general surgeons, enabling them to perform LC in the presence of choledocholithiasis during acute admissions including pancreatitis. It does not require any specialist skills in CBD exploration and also eliminates unnecessary preoperative ERCP and avoids its potential complications.

Predictors for early readmission in acute pancreatitis (AP) in the United States (US) - A nationwide population based study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Population based data on the burden and patterns of acute pancreatitis (AP) early readmissions (≤30-days) are limited.

METHODS

2013 Nationwide Readmission Database (NRD) was queried. AP etiology was determined using associated diagnoses codes. Proportion, reasons for readmission, and associated costs were evaluated. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors for 30-day readmission.

RESULTS

After exclusions, we identified 178,541 patients with primary diagnosis of AP (mean age 53 ± 17 years, 51% male). 13.7% were readmitted ≤30 days [7.1% in acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) patients with index cholecystectomy (CCY), 16.3% in ABP patients without CCY, and 14.3% in non-biliary AP patients (p < 0.0001)]. Reasons for readmission included AP, chronic pancreatitis, Pseudocyst/walled off necrosis, biliary tract disease, smoldering symptoms and others. On multivariate analysis male gender, comorbidity status (≥3), non-biliary etiology, organ failure, Pseudocyst/walled off necrosis complications, and patients discharged to extended care facilities were associated with increased risk of readmission. ABP patients with index CCY had a significantly lower risk of early unplanned readmission (odds ratio 0.45, p < 0.0001) but ABP patients with index ERCP did not (p = 0.96).

CONCLUSIONS

About 1 in 7 AP patients had a 30-day readmission after index hospitalization and about half of these were related to AP. Our data confirms the higher risk of readmission in alcohol and idiopathic AP and a lower risk in ABP. Risk of early unplanned readmission is significantly lower in ABP patients who underwent CCY and not ERCP during index hospitalization. Cholecystectomy should be performed in all ABP patients as per recommended guidelines.

Can the timing of laparoscopic cholecystectomy after biliary pancreatitis change the conversion rate to open surgery?

BACKGROUND

Biliary pancreatitis (BP) constitutes 30-55% of all cases of acute pancreatitis. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become the gold standard for the surgical treatment of gallbladder disease. We aimed to compare and evaluate the relation between the timing of LC and the rates and reasons of conversion to open surgery (OS) after BP.

METHODS

Data were collected of patients who presented for the first time with acute BP and underwent LC. The patients were divided into two groups: early cholecystectomy (Group 1), patients who underwent cholecystectomy during the first pancreatitis attack upon admission and before discharge from hospital (1-3 days); and late cholecystectomy (Group 2), patients who received medical treatment during their first pancreatitis episode and underwent surgery after 4-10 weeks. Sex, Ranson scores, American Society of Anesthesiology scores, and conversion reasons were compared.

RESULTS

Group 1 and Group 2 included 75 patients (20 men, 55 women) and 87 patients (25 men, 62 women), respectively. The mean age was 44.7 years (range, 21-82 years). Obscure anatomy with adhesions was detected in 16 patients (5 in Group 1, 11 in Group 2) as the leading cause of conversion to OS, but it was not statistically significant (p=0.054). Acute inflammation with empyema and peripancreatic liquid collection was observed in 14 patients (12 in Group 1, 2 in Group 2), and conversion to OS was statistically significantly higher in Group 1 (p=0.016).

CONCLUSION

Timing of LC does not influence the conversion rates to OS after BP.

Acute biliary pancreatitis: focus on recurrence rate and costs when current guidelines are not complied

BACKGROUND

International guidelines recommend cholecystectomy within 2-4 weeks after mild to moderate acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) to prevent recurrence. We aimed to investigate the compliance to guidelines concerning early cholecystectomy and the associated costs.

METHODS

Admissions for ABP 2011-2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Classification was made according to the revised Atlanta classification. Treatment, time to surgery and recurrence, as well as cost analysis for both in-hospital costs and loss of production (LOP) were performed.

RESULTS

In total, 254 patients were included. Some 202 of the ABP patients (80%) underwent definitive treatment during their first attack of ABP (68% cholecystectomy, 17% endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), 15% both interventions) and 186 (73%) were treated within 1 month of discharge. Patients with ERCP alone were significantly older than cholecystectomy cases (p < .001), but no significant difference was observed between those who underwent ERCP or no treatment (p = .071). Mild ABP had intervention earlier (p < .001). In all, 52 patients (20%) had no intervention, out of which 15 were readmitted due to pancreatitis, compared to 3 patients of those treated at the initial admission (p < .001). The mean cost for hospital care and LOP in mild ABP was €6882 ± 3010 and €9580 ± 7047 for moderate ABP (p = .001). The cost for a recurrent episode was €16,412 ± 22,367.

CONCLUSION

By improved compliance to current guidelines concerning the management of ABP, recurrence rate and associated costs can potentially be reduced.

Effectiveness of Guideline-Recommended Cholecystectomy to Prevent Recurrent Pancreatitis

OBJECTIVES

Cholecystectomy during or within 4 weeks of hospitalization for acute biliary pancreatitis is recommended by guidelines. We examined adherence to the guidelines for incident mild-to-moderate acute biliary pancreatitis and the effectiveness of cholecystectomy to prevent recurrent episodes of pancreatitis.

METHODS

Individuals in the 2010-2013 MarketScan Commercial Claims & Encounters database with a hospitalization associated with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes of 577.0 for acute pancreatitis and 574.x for gallstone disease were eligible. Guideline adherence was considered cholecystectomy within 30 days of the first/index hospitalization for biliary pancreatitis. Individuals with and without guideline-adherent cholecystectomy were compared for subsequent hospitalization for acute or chronic pancreatitis using a Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for age, sex, comorbidities, and length of index hospital stay.

RESULTS

Of the 17,010 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 78% were adherent with the guidelines, including 10,918 who underwent cholecystectomy during the index hospitalization and 2,387 who underwent cholecystectomy within 30 days. Among 3,705 patients non-adherent with the guidelines, 1,213 had a cholecystectomy 1-6 months after the index hospitalization. Guideline-adherent cholecystectomy resulted in fewer subsequent hospitalizations for acute and chronic pancreatitis as compared with non-adherence to the guidelines (acute pancreatitis: 3% vs. 13%, P<0.001; chronic pancreatitis: 1% vs. 4%, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly four out of five patients underwent cholecystectomy for acute biliary pancreatitis in a timeframe, consistent with guidelines. Adherence resulted in a decrease in subsequent hospitalizations for both acute and chronic pancreatitis. However, the majority of non-adherent patients did not undergo a subsequent cholecystectomy. There may be factors that predict the need for immediate vs. delayed cholecystectomy.

Outcomes of early versus delayed cholecystectomy in patients with mild to moderate acute biliary pancreatitis: A randomized prospective study

BACKGROUND

In patients with acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP), cholecystectomy is mandatory to prevent further biliary events, but the precise timing of cholecystectomy for mild to moderate disease remain a subject of ongoing debate. The aim of this study is to assess the outcomes of early versus delayed cholecystectomy. We hypothesize that early cholecystectomy as compared to delayed cholecystectomy reduces recurrent biliary events without a higher peri-operative complication rate.

METHODS

Patients with mild to moderate ABP were prospectively randomized to either an early cholecystectomy versus a delayed cholecystectomy group. Recurrent biliary events, peri-operative complications, conversion rate, length of surgery and total hospital length of stay between the two groups were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 72 patients were enrolled at a single public hospital. Of them, 38 were randomized to the early group and 34 patients to the delayed group. There were no differences regarding peri-operative complications (7.78% vs 11.76%; p = 0.700), conversion rate to open surgery (10.53% vs 11.76%; p = 1.000) and duration of surgery performed (80 vs 85 minutes, p = 0.752). Nevertheless, a greater rate of recurrent biliary events was found in the delayed group (44.12% vs 0%; p ≤ 0.0001) and the hospital length of stay was longer in the delayed group (9 vs 8 days, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

In mild to moderate ABP, early laparoscopic cholecystectomy reduces the risk of recurrent biliary events without an increase in operative difficulty or perioperative morbidity.

The Value of Performing Early Non-enhanced CT in Developing Strategies for Treating Acute Gallstone Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to assess the value of early abdominal non-enhanced computed tomography (NECT) in developing strategies for treating acute gallstone pancreatitis (AGP).

METHODS

AGP patients underwent NECT within 48 h after symptom onset to determine the presence of peripancreatic fluid collection, gallstones, and common bile duct stones. Patients with mild AGP who had neither organ failure by clinical data nor peripancreatic fluid collection by NECT (classified as grade A, B, or C based on the Balthazar CT grading system) were randomized to undergo an early laparoscopic cholecystomy (ELC; LC performed within 7 days after a pancreatitis attack, without waiting for symptom resolution) or late laparoscopic cholecystomy (LLC; LC performed ≥ 7 days following an attack, with the patient being completely free of AGP symptoms).

RESULTS

The study enrolled 102 patients with mild AGP defined by clinical data and NECT. NECT was 89.2 % and 87.8 % accurate in detecting gallbladder stones and CBD stones, respectively. Totals of 49 and 53 patients were assigned to an ELC and LLC group, respectively. All patients in both groups were cured, no LC-related complications occurred, and no case of AGP increased in severity following LC. The mean lengths of hospital stay and LC operation time were significantly shorter in the ELC group than the LLC group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

NECT can accurately detect peripancreatic fluid collection and biliary obstructions; thus, early abdominal NECT is valuable when developing strategies for treating AGP. Patients with mild AGP without organ failure or peripancreatic fluid collection can safely undergo ELC without waiting for complete resolution of their pancreatitis.

Endoscopic sphincterotomy and cholecystectomy in acute biliary pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

This review discusses current insights with regard to biliary tract management during and after acute biliary pancreatitis.

METHODS

A MEDLINE and EMBASE search was done and studies were selected based on methodological quality and publication date. The recommendations of recent guidelines are incorporated in this review. In absence of consensus in the literature, expert opinion is expressed.

RESULTS

There is no role for early endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in patients with (predicted) mild biliary pancreatitis to improve outcome. In case of persisting choledocholithiasis, ERCP with stone extraction is scheduled electively when the acute event has subsided. Whether early ERCP with sphincterotomy is beneficial in patients with predicted severe pancreatitis remains subject to debate. Regardless of disease severity, in case of concomitant cholangitis urgent endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) is recommended. As a definitive treatment to reduce the risk of recurrent biliary events in the long term, ES is inferior to cholecystectomy and should be reserved for patients considered unfit for surgery. After severe biliary pancreatitis, cholecystectomy should be postponed until all signs of inflammation have subsided. In patients with mild pancreatitis, cholecystectomy during the primary admission reduces the risk of recurrent biliary complications.

CONCLUSION

Recent research has provided valuable data to guide biliary tract management in the setting of acute biliary pancreatitis with great value and benefit for patients and clinicians. Some important clinical dilemmas remain, but it is anticipated that on-going clinical trials will deliver some important insights and additional guidance soon.

Surgery for Acute Pancreatitis

Surgery for acute pancreatitis has undergone significant changes over the last 3 decades. A better understanding of the pathophysiology has contributed to this, but the greatest driver for change has been the rise of less invasive interventions in the fields of laparoscopy, endoscopy and radiology. Surgery has a very limited role in the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. The most common indication for intervention in acute pancreatitis is for the treatment of complications and most notably the treatment of infected walled off necrosis. Here, the step-up approach has become established, with prior drainage (either endoscopic or percutaneous) followed by delay for maturing of the wall and then debridement by endoscopic or minimally invasive surgical methods. Open surgery is only indicated when this approach fails. Other indications for surgery in acute pancreatitis are for the treatment of acute compartment syndrome, non-occlusive intestinal ischaemia and necrosis, enterocutaneous fistulae, vascular complications and pseudocyst. Surgery also has a role in the prevention of recurrent acute pancreatitis by cholecystectomy. Despite the more restricted role, surgeons have an important contribution to make in the multidisciplinary care of patients with complicated acute pancreatitis.

Acute Pancreatitis and Use of Pancreatitis-Associated Drugs: A 10-Year Population-Based Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the use of acute pancreatitis (AP)-associated drugs in patients with AP, the relation between sales of these drugs and the incidence of AP, and the potential impact on AP severity and recurrence.

METHODS

All patients with incident AP between 2003 and 2012, in a well-defined area, were retrospectively identified. Data regarding AP etiology, severity, and recurrence and use of AP-associated drugs were extracted from medical records. Drugs were classified according to an evidence-based classification system. Annual drug sales data were obtained from the Swedish drug administration service.

RESULTS

Overall, 1457 cases of incident AP were identified. Acute pancreatitis-associated drug users increased from 32% in 2003 to 51% in 2012, reflecting increasing user rates in the general population. The incidence of AP increased during the study period but was not related to AP-associated drug user rates (P > 0.05). Recurrent AP occurred in 23% but was unrelated to AP-associated drug use (P > 0.05). In logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for comorbidity, AP-associated drug use was not related to AP severity (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of AP-associated drugs is increasingly frequent in patients with AP. However, it does not have any major impact on the observed epidemiological changes in occurrence, severity, or recurrence of AP.

Same-admission versus interval cholecystectomy for mild gallstone pancreatitis (PONCHO): a multicentre randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

In patients with mild gallstone pancreatitis, cholecystectomy during the same hospital admission might reduce the risk of recurrent gallstone-related complications, compared with the more commonly used strategy of interval cholecystectomy. However, evidence to support same-admission cholecystectomy is poor, and concerns exist about an increased risk of cholecystectomy-related complications with this approach. In this study, we aimed to compare same-admission and interval cholecystectomy, with the hypothesis that same-admission cholecystectomy would reduce the risk of recurrent gallstone-related complications without increasing the difficulty of surgery.

METHODS

For this multicentre, parallel-group, assessor-masked, randomised controlled superiority trial, inpatients recovering from mild gallstone pancreatitis at 23 hospitals in the Netherlands (with hospital discharge foreseen within 48 h) were assessed for eligibility. Adult patients (aged ≥18 years) were eligible for randomisation if they had a serum C-reactive protein concentration less than 100 mg/L, no need for opioid analgesics, and could tolerate a normal oral diet. Patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class III physical status who were older than 75 years of age, all ASA class IV patients, those with chronic pancreatitis, and those with ongoing alcohol misuse were excluded. A central study coordinator randomly assigned eligible patients (1:1) by computer-based randomisation, with varying block sizes of two and four patients, to cholecystectomy within 3 days of randomisation (same-admission cholecystectomy) or to discharge and cholecystectomy 25-30 days after randomisation (interval cholecystectomy). Randomisation was stratified by centre and by whether or not endoscopic sphincterotomy had been done. Neither investigators nor participants were masked to group assignment. The primary endpoint was a composite of readmission for recurrent gallstone-related complications (pancreatitis, cholangitis, cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis needing endoscopic intervention, or gallstone colic) or mortality within 6 months after randomisation, analysed by intention to treat. The trial was designed to reduce the incidence of the primary endpoint from 8% in the interval group to 1% in the same-admission group. Safety endpoints included bile duct leakage and other complications necessitating re-intervention. This trial is registered with Current Controlled Trials, number ISRCTN72764151, and is complete.

FINDINGS

Between Dec 22, 2010, and Aug 19, 2013, 266 inpatients from 23 hospitals in the Netherlands were randomly assigned to interval cholecystectomy (n=137) or same-admission cholecystectomy (n=129). One patient from each group was excluded from the final analyses, because of an incorrect diagnosis of pancreatitis in one patient (in the interval group) and discontinued follow-up in the other (in the same-admission group). The primary endpoint occurred in 23 (17%) of 136 patients in the interval group and in six (5%) of 128 patients in the same-admission group (risk ratio 0·28, 95% CI 0·12-0·66; p=0·002). Safety endpoints occurred in four patients: one case of bile duct leakage and one case of postoperative bleeding in each group. All of these were serious adverse events and were judged to be treatment related, but none led to death.

INTERPRETATION

Compared with interval cholecystectomy, same-admission cholecystectomy reduced the rate of recurrent gallstone-related complications in patients with mild gallstone pancreatitis, with a very low risk of cholecystectomy-related complications.

FUNDING

Dutch Digestive Disease Foundation.

Acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis, an inflammatory disorder of the pancreas, is the leading cause of admission to hospital for gastrointestinal disorders in the USA and many other countries. Gallstones and alcohol misuse are long-established risk factors, but several new causes have emerged that, together with new aspects of pathophysiology, improve understanding of the disorder. As incidence (and admission rates) of acute pancreatitis increase, so does the demand for effective management. We review how to manage patients with acute pancreatitis, paying attention to diagnosis, differential diagnosis, complications, prognostic factors, treatment, and prevention of second attacks, and the possible transition from acute to chronic pancreatitis.

Japanese guidelines for the management of acute pancreatitis: Japanese Guidelines 2015

BACKGROUND

Japanese (JPN) guidelines for the management of acute pancreatitis were published in 2006. The severity assessment criteria for acute pancreatitis were later revised by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) in 2008, leading to their publication as the JPN Guidelines 2010. Following the 2012 revision of the Atlanta Classifications of Acute Pancreatitis, in which the classifications of regional complications of pancreatitis were revised, the development of a minimally invasive method for local complications of pancreatitis spread, and emerging evidence was gathered and revised into the JPN Guidelines.

METHODS

A comprehensive evaluation was carried out on the evidence for epidemiology, diagnosis, severity, treatment, post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis and clinical indicators, based on the concepts of the GRADE system (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation). With the graded recommendations, where the evidence was unclear, Meta-Analysis team for JPN Guidelines 2015 conducted an additional new meta-analysis, the results of which were included in the guidelines.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine questions were prepared in 17 subject areas, for which 43 recommendations were made. The 17 subject areas were: Diagnosis, Diagnostic imaging, Etiology, Severity assessment, Transfer indication, Fluid therapy, Nasogastric tube, Pain control, Antibiotics prophylaxis, Protease inhibitor, Nutritional support, Intensive care, management of Biliary Pancreatitis, management of Abdominal Compartment Syndrome, Interventions for the local complications, Post-ERCP pancreatitis and Clinical Indicator (Pancreatitis Bundles 2015). Meta-analysis was conducted in the following four subject areas based on randomized controlled trials: (1) prophylactic antibiotics use; (2) prophylactic pancreatic stent placement for the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis; (3) prophylactic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the prevention of post-ERCP pancreatitis; and (4) peritoneal lavage. Using the results of the meta-analysis, recommendations were graded to create useful information. In addition, a mobile application was developed, which made it possible to diagnose, assess severity and check pancreatitis bundles.

CONCLUSIONS

The JPN Guidelines 2015 were prepared using the most up-to-date methods, and including the latest recommended medical treatments, and we are confident that this will make them easy for many clinicians to use, and will provide a useful tool in the decision-making process for the treatment of patients, and optimal medical support. The free mobile application and calculator for the JPN Guidelines 2015 is available via http://www.jshbps.jp/en/guideline/jpn-guideline2015.html.

[Pediatric pancreatitis. Evidence based management guidelines of the Hungarian Pancreatic Study Group]

Pediatric pancreatitis is a rare disease with variable etiology. In the past 10-15 years the incidence of pediatric pancreatitis has been increased. The management of pediatric pancreatitis requires up-to-date and evidence based management guidelines. The Hungarian Pancreatic Study Group proposed to prepare an evidence based guideline based on the available international guidelines and evidences. The preparatory and consultation task force appointed by the Hungarian Pancreatic Study Group translated and complemented and/or modified the international guidelines if it was necessary. In 8 clinical topics (diagnosis; etiology; prognosis; imaging; therapy; biliary tract management; complications; chronic pancreatitis) 50 relevant questions were defined. Evidence was classified according to the UpToDate(®) grading system. The draft of the guidelines was presented and discussed at the consensus meeting on September 12, 2014. All clinical statements were accepted with total (more than 95%) agreement. The present Hungarian Pancreatic Study Group guideline is the first evidence based pediatric pancreatitis guideline in Hungary. The present guideline is the first evidence-based pancreatic cancer guideline in Hungary that provides a solid ground for teaching purposes, offers quick reference for daily patient care in pediatric pancreatitis and guides financing options. The authors strongly believe that these guidelines will become a standard reference for pancreatic cancer treatment in Hungary.

Single-stage cholecystectomy at the time of pancreatic necrosectomy is safe and prevents future biliary complications: a 20-year single institutional experience with 217 consecutive patients

INTRODUCTION

Current guidelines recommend cholecystectomy (CCY) during the index admission for mild to moderate biliary pancreatitis as delayed CCY is associated with a substantial risk of recurrent biliary events. Delayed CCY is recommended in severe pancreatitis. The optimal timing of CCY in necrotizing pancreatitis, however, has not been well studied. We sought to determine the safety of single-stage CCY performed at the time of necrosectomy and its effectiveness in preventing subsequent biliary complications.

METHODS

We retrospectively queried our institutional database of patients who underwent pancreatic necrosectomy for necrotizing pancreatitis from 1992 to 2012.

RESULTS

We identified 217 consecutive patients who underwent pancreatic necrosectomy during the study period. The most common etiologies of pancreatitis were biliary (41 %) and alcoholic (24%), with a median computed tomography (CT) severity index score of 6 ± 1.6 and a 63.6% incidence of infected necrosis. Ninety-eight patients had undergone CCY prior to necrosectomy. Seventy patients (59% of those with gallbladders in situ) underwent CCY at the time of pancreatic necrosectomy. CCY was not performed in the remaining 49 due to a clear non-biliary etiology (35%), technical difficulty (29%), intraoperative hemodynamic instability (18%), or surgeon preference (18%). Postoperative morbidity and mortality was no different between the CCY and no CCY groups, with no bile duct injury or bile leaks in patients undergoing CCY at the time of necrosectomy. Of the patients undergoing CCY, 43% of patients without cholelithiasis or biliary sludge on preoperative imaging had gallstones or sludge identified pathologically after single-stage CCY. Of those who did not receive a single-stage CCY, biliary complications developed in 17 (35%) of patients (21% cholecystitis, 14% recurrent gallstone pancreatitis) at a median time to incidence of 10 months. Seventeen (35%) patients eventually received a postnecrosectomy cholecystectomy, of which 75% required an open procedure.

CONCLUSION

Single-stage CCY at the time of pancreatic necrosectomy is safe in selected patients and should be performed if technically feasible to prevent future biliary complications and reduce the need for a subsequent separate, often open, CCY.

Evidence-Based Management of Common Gallstone-Related Emergencies

Gallstone-related disease is among the most common clinical problems encountered worldwide. The manifestations of cholelithiasis vary greatly, ranging from mild biliary colic to life-threatening gallstone pancreatitis and cholangitis. The vast majority of gallstone-related diseases encountered in an acute setting can be categorized as biliary colic, cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis, and pancreatitis, although these diagnoses can overlap. The management of these diseases is uniquely multidisciplinary, involving many specialties and treatment options. Thus, care may be compromised due to redundant tests, treatment delays, or inconsistent management. This review outlines the evidence for initial evaluation, diagnostic workup, and treatment for the most common gallstone-related emergencies. Key principles include initial risk stratification of patients to aid in triage and timing of interventions, early initiation of appropriate antibiotics for patients with evidence of cholecystitis or cholangitis, patient selection for endoscopic biliary decompression, and growing evidence in favor of early laparoscopic cholecystectomy for clinically stable patients.

Management of acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common medical condition with extensive morbidity and mortality. Approximately 210,000 Americans are hospitalized each year; and 5% of patients with AP will die. It is also an expensive condition, costing 2.6 billion dollars (United States) in 2009 alone. Moreover, the incidence is increasing - the National Hospital Discharge Survey showed hospitalizations increased from 78 per 100,000 in 2007 to 90 per 100,000 just three years later in 2010. There is no proven pharmacologic entity to treat the inflammatory response associated with acute pancreatitis; supportive care with IV fluids, bowel rest and pain control are the mainstays of therapy. Recently, new developments to help increase survival and minimize morbidity with several key interventions have been investigated. This summary highlights new studies and meta-analyses to provide current opinion on treatment of this morbid condition.

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiography laparoscopic cholecystectomy: challenging but safe

Interval laparoscopic cholecystectomy was found to be safe and associated with a low rate of perioperative complications.

Background and Objectives:

Up to 19% of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) have common bile duct stones and may require endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP) before LC. The risk of complications of LC after ERCP is higher, and the optimal interval between ERCP and LC is disputed. In our unit, LC is performed approximately 6 weeks after ERCP. This study aims to compare outcomes between subsets of patients undergoing LC with or without prior ERCP.

Methods:

All patients undergoing ERCP and elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) over a 1-year period were included. Outcome measures included ERCP outcomes, duration of surgery, intraoperative findings, and postoperative outcomes. Two groups of patients were compared: LC after ERCP and ELC.

Results:

The study included 190 ELC patients and 43 patients with LC after ERCP (ERCP-LC) (December 2008 to December 2009). At ERCP, 25 patients (58%) had ductal stones. The post-ERCP complication rate was 5%. The median time to LC was 42 days, and 6 patients (14%) were readmitted before LC. There were more severe adhesions and longer median operating times in the ERCP-LC group (75 minutes for ELC vs 110 minutes for ERCP-LC, P = .013). We found no significant differences in rates of conversion to open surgery, postoperative complications, lengths of stay, and readmission rates.

Conclusion:

Interval LC after ERCP is a more technically challenging procedure but is associated with a low rate of complications. Although there is emerging evidence that early LC after ERCP is feasible, our study shows that our current practice of delaying LC by approximately 6 weeks is safe.

Cost-effectiveness of early laparoscopic cholecystectomy for mild acute gallstone pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

A recent Cochrane review suggested that laparoscopic cholecystectomy carried out early following mild gallstone pancreatitis was safe. This study compared the cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed within 3 days of admission, during the same admission but after more than 3 days, or electively in a subsequent admission.

METHODS

A model-based cost-utility analysis was performed estimating mean costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) per patient in the UK National Health Service with a 1-year time horizon. A decision tree model was constructed and populated with probabilities, outcomes and cost data from published sources for mild gallstone pancreatitis, including one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

The costs of laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed within 3 days of admission, beyond 3 days but in the same admission, and electively in a subsequent admission were € 2748, € 3543 and € 3752 respectively; the QALYs were 0.888, 0.888 and 0.884 respectively. Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy had a 91 per cent probability of being cost-effective at the maximum willingness to pay for a QALY commonly used in the UK. It is acknowledged that many hospitals do not have access to magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, especially at weekends, and that implementing a 3-day target is unrealistic without allocating new resources that could erode the cost-effectiveness.

CONCLUSION

Performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for mild gallstone pancreatitis within 3 days of admission is cost-effective, but may not be feasible without significant resource allocation. After 3 days there is little financial advantage to same-admission operation.

The impact of timing of cholecystectomy following gallstone pancreatitis

INTRODUCTION

Current guidelines for the management of acute gallstone pancreatitis recommend cholecystectomy as definitive treatment during primary admission or within 2 weeks of discharge, with the aim of preventing recurrent pancreatitis. However, cholecystectomy during the inflammatory phase may increase surgical complication rates. This study aimed to determine whether adherence to the guidelines prevents recurrent pancreatitis while minimising surgical complications.

METHODS

Multi-centre review of seven UK hospitals, indentifying patients presenting with their first episode of gallstone pancreatitis between 2006 and 2008.

RESULTS

A total of 523 patients with gallstone pancreatitis were identified, of which 363 (69%) underwent cholecystectomy (72 during the primary admission or within 2 weeks of discharge; 291 following this). Overall, 7% of patients had a complication related to cholecystectomy of which a greater proportion occurred when cholecystectomy was performed within guideline parameters (13% vs 6%; p = 0.07). 11% of patients were readmitted with recurrent pancreatitis prior to surgery, with those undergoing cholecystectomy outside guideline parameters being most at risk (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests cholecystectomy within guideline parameters significantly reduces recurrence of pancreatitis but may increase the risk of surgical complications. A prospective randomised study to assess the associated morbidity is required to inform future guidelines.

Early management of acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is the most common gastro-intestinal indication for acute hospitalization and its incidence continues to rise. In severe pancreatitis, morbidity and mortality remains high and is mainly driven by organ failure and infectious complications. Early management strategies should aim to prevent or treat organ failure and to reduce infectious complications. This review addresses the management of acute pancreatitis in the first hours to days after onset of symptoms, including fluid therapy, nutrition and endoscopic retrograde cholangiography. This review also discusses the recently revised Atlanta classification which provides new uniform terminology, thereby facilitating communication regarding severity and complications of pancreatitis.

IAP/APA evidence-based guidelines for the management of acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

There have been substantial improvements in the management of acute pancreatitis since the publication of the International Association of Pancreatology (IAP) treatment guidelines in 2002. A collaboration of the IAP and the American Pancreatic Association (APA) was undertaken to revise these guidelines using an evidence-based approach.

METHODS

Twelve multidisciplinary review groups performed systematic literature reviews to answer 38 predefined clinical questions. Recommendations were graded using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. The review groups presented their recommendations during the 2012 joint IAP/APA meeting. At this one-day, interactive conference, relevant remarks were voiced and overall agreement on each recommendation was quantified using plenary voting.

RESULTS

The 38 recommendations covered 12 topics related to the clinical management of acute pancreatitis: A) diagnosis of acute pancreatitis and etiology, B) prognostication/predicting severity, C) imaging, D) fluid therapy, E) intensive care management, F) preventing infectious complications, G) nutritional support, H) biliary tract management, I) indications for intervention in necrotizing pancreatitis, J) timing of intervention in necrotizing pancreatitis, K) intervention strategies in necrotizing pancreatitis, and L) timing of cholecystectomy. Using the GRADE system, 21 of the 38 (55%) recommendations, were rated as 'strong' and plenary voting revealed 'strong agreement' for 34 (89%) recommendations.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2012 IAP/APA guidelines provide recommendations concerning key aspects of medical and surgical management of acute pancreatitis based on the currently available evidence. These recommendations should serve as a reference standard for current management and guide future clinical research on acute pancreatitis.

Clinical management of patients with acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is the leading cause of hospitalization for gastrointestinal disorders in the United States. As rates of hospitalization for acute pancreatitis continue to increase, so does demand for effective management. We review approaches to best manage patients with acute pancreatitis, covering diagnosis, risk and prognostic factors, treatment, and complications, considering recommendations from current practice guidelines.

Pancreatitis of biliary origin, optimal timing of cholecystectomy (PONCHO trial): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

After an initial attack of biliary pancreatitis, cholecystectomy minimizes the risk of recurrent biliary pancreatitis and other gallstone-related complications. Guidelines advocate performing cholecystectomy within 2 to 4 weeks after discharge for mild biliary pancreatitis. During this waiting period, the patient is at risk of recurrent biliary events. In current clinical practice, surgeons usually postpone cholecystectomy for 6 weeks due to a perceived risk of a more difficult dissection in the early days following pancreatitis and for logistical reasons. We hypothesize that early laparoscopic cholecystectomy minimizes the risk of recurrent biliary pancreatitis or other complications of gallstone disease in patients with mild biliary pancreatitis without increasing the difficulty of dissection and the surgical complication rate compared with interval laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods/Design

PONCHO is a randomized controlled, parallel-group, assessor-blinded, superiority multicenter trial. Patients are randomly allocated to undergo early laparoscopic cholecystectomy, within 72 hours after randomization, or interval laparoscopic cholecystectomy, 25 to 30 days after randomization. During a 30-month period, 266 patients will be enrolled from 18 hospitals of the Dutch Pancreatitis Study Group. The primary endpoint is a composite endpoint of mortality and acute re-admissions for biliary events (that is, recurrent biliary pancreatitis, acute cholecystitis, symptomatic/obstructive choledocholithiasis requiring endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography including cholangitis (with/without endoscopic sphincterotomy), and uncomplicated biliary colics) occurring within 6 months following randomization. Secondary endpoints include the individual endpoints of the composite endpoint, surgical and other complications, technical difficulty of cholecystectomy and costs.

Discussion

The PONCHO trial is designed to show that early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (within 72 hours) reduces the combined endpoint of mortality and re-admissions for biliary events as compared with interval laparoscopic cholecystectomy (between 25 and 30 days) after recovery of a first episode of mild biliary pancreatitis.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials: ISRCTN72764151

Survey of the management of acute pancreatitis in surgical departments in Sweden

OBJECTIVE

Several international guidelines concerning the treatment of acute pancreatitis has been published during the last decades. However, Scandinavian guidelines are still lacking. The aim of the present study is to identify current treatment strategies for acute pancreatitis in Sweden and to evaluate if there is a need for improvement and the role of guidelines.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A questionnaire was e-mailed to the surgical departments at all Swedish hospitals (n = 58) managing patients with acute pancreatitis. Comparisons were made both between university and non-university hospitals, and between hospitals with more versus less than 150,000 persons in the primary catchment population.

RESULTS

Fifty-one hospitals responded (88%). In median, 65 (12-200) patients with acute pancreatitis are treated yearly at each hospital. Of 51 hospitals, 18 perform a severity classification, with APACHE II being the most commonly used. A majority are of the opinion that a scoring system is not better than the judgment of a senior consultant. In severe acute pancreatitis, 29/48 routinely administer antibiotics, 29/48 use enteral nutrition, and 25/49 have a standardized follow-up plan. The majority considered administration of intravenous fluids as the most important treatment in severe acute pancreatitis. After mild gallstone-induced acute pancreatitis, the corresponding response was cholecystectomy, especially at larger hospitals (p = 0.002). Of 47, 42 are interested in developing a Scandinavian quality register.

CONCLUSIONS

The results from this first Swedish national survey provide an insight into current traditions of treatment of acute pancreatitis and points, for example, at the lack of early severity stratification. A majority of hospitals are interested in developing a quality register in acute pancreatitis.

The "golden hours" of management in acute pancreatitis

In the past decade, a significant amount of active and enthusiastic research has changed the way we treat acute pancreatitis (AP) within the first 24 hours of presentation. We highlight the importance of rapid initiation of treatment to help prevent the considerable morbidity and mortality that can occur when interventions are delayed. We review recent data that validate simple and accurate tools for prognostication of AP to replace the older, more tedious methods that relied on numerous factors and required up to 48 hours to complete. Additionally, we aim to provide evidence-based guidelines and end points for fluid resuscitation. Finally, we hope to bring clarification to two previously controversial topics in AP treatment: the use of prophylactic antibiotics and early endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.

Modern management of acute pancreatitis

There is a rising incidence of acute pancreatitis in the United States. Numerous clinical prognostic scoring systems have been developed, including the BISAP score. Vigorous fluid resuscitation remains a cornerstone of early management of acute pancreatitis. Cross-sectional imaging in the early phase of evaluation has not been associated with improvement of outcomes. There is no role for prophylactic antibiotics in early management. However, there is growing emphasis on the identification and treatment of extrapancreatic infections. Enteral nutrition in severe acute pancreatitis has reduced mortality, systemic infection, and multiorgan dysfunction compared to parenteral nutrition. Conservative management consisting of percutaneous drainage and delayed surgical intervention is now favored for local complications, such as infected necrosis. These developments have contributed to improved outcomes for patients with acute pancreatitis.