Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography of biliary system abnormalities in children

Transabdominal Ultrasound Evaluation of Pancreaticobiliary Maljunction in Children

ABSTRACT

The development of high-frequency ultrasound made the diagnosis of pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM) possible. However, no study has been performed to clarify the sensitivity and specificity of transabdominal ultrasound (TAUS) in the diagnosis of PBM. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of TAUS in the diagnosis of pediatric PBM and to assess factors that may influence the accuracy of ultrasound. This was a prospective study and 43 patients with suspected PBM were enrolled. All of these patients underwent TAUS examination to detect the pancreaticobiliary ductal union. Final diagnoses were determined by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or intraoperative cholangiography. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated. Fisher exact test was used to analyze the difference of sonographic features between false-negative group and true-positive group. Transabdominal ultrasound demonstrated 77.4% (95% confidence interval, 58.5%-89.7%) sensitivity and 100% (95% confidence interval, 69.9%-100%) specificity for PMB diagnosis. In the false-negative group, infant patients (71.4% vs 16.7%, P = 0.012), cystic dilatation of the common bile duct (CBD) (71.4% vs 16.7%, P = 0.012), and stenosis of the distal CBD (71.4% vs 16.7%, P = 0.012) were more frequently observed than in the true-positive group. On the other hand, the true-positive group showed a higher incidence of protein plugs than the false-negative group (62.5% vs 0%, P = 0.007). Transabdominal ultrasound may serve as a potential alternative detection modality for pediatric patients with suspected PBM. Nondetection of the anomaly may be attributed to factors, such as younger age, cystic dilatation of the CBD, and stenosis of the distal CBD.

Understanding multiseptated gallbladder: A systematic analysis with a case report

Multiseptated gallbladder (MSG) (also known as “Honeycomb gallbladder”) is a rare condition that was first described by Knetsch in 1952, and there are around 150 cases described over the world. MSG has been described as a congenital anomaly in most of the cases and as acquired in a few. Moreover, the phenomenon was described with a variety of different symptoms and management. The aim of this article is to have better understanding of this condition and management approach. We are reporting a 4‐year‐old girl, who presented to Sidra Medicine, Qatar with MSG. We have also included 97 cases for review and analysis. The median age of presentation of the condition was 27 years but may present in neonates and in the elderly, while gender was not a risk factor. Abdominal pain is the most common presenting symptom, but it can present without symptoms. Certain congenital anomalies were detected in the pancreaticobiliary system in few patients with MSG. Medical treatment was reported in eight symptomatic patients, four of whom failed therapy. Cholecystectomy was performed in 40 patients, which resulted in resolutions of symptoms in 13 of them. Based on the available literature, congenital MSG is probably due to in‐pouching of gallbladder wall to its own cavity forming septa containing muscular fibers. MSG can be diagnosed solely via imaging, and ultrasound appears to be an effective and feasible mode of diagnosis. Medical treatment efficacy is not well‐known, but cholecystectomy has resulted in complete resolution in symptomatic patients.

Hepatic hilum-type II choledochal cyst masquerading as gallbladder duplication

Choledochal cyst and gallbladder duplication are rare congenital anomalies. They typically are surgical problems of infancy or childhood but rarely may present in adults also. Despite high resolution imaging, the differentiation of type II choledochal cyst from gallbladder duplication often causes the diagnostic dilemma; which may result in high risk for intraoperative iatrogenic injury. Operative management of choledochal cyst is the definite treatment because of its malignant potential. A type II choledochal cyst arising from the hepatic hilum presenting as gallbladder duplication on imaging has not been reported earlier in the literature and here we present a case report of the same which was managed successfully.

North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and the Society for Pediatric Radiology Joint Position Paper on Noninvasive Imaging of Pediatric Pancreatitis: Literature Summary and Recommendations

ABSTRACT

The reported incidence of pediatric pancreatitis is increasing. Noninvasive imaging, including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), play important roles in the diagnosis, staging, follow-up, and management of pancreatitis in children. In this position paper, generated by members of the Pancreas Committee of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) and the Abdominal Imaging Committee of The Society for Pediatric Radiology (SPR), we review the roles of noninvasive imaging in pediatric acute, acute recurrent, and chronic pancreatitis. We discuss available evidence related to noninvasive imaging, highlighting evidence specific to pediatric populations, and we make joint recommendations for use of noninvasive imaging. Further, we highlight the need for research to define the performance and role of noninvasive imaging in pediatric pancreatitis.

Key imaging features for differentiating cystic biliary atresia from choledochal cyst: prenatal ultrasonography and postnatal ultrasonography and MRI

Purpose

This study compared clinical and radiologic differences between cystic biliary atresia (cBA) and choledochal cyst (CC) type Ia/b.

Methods

Infants (≤12 months old) who were diagnosed with cBA or CC type Ia/b from 2005 to 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Imaging features on preoperative ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were compared between the cBA and CC groups. Logistic regression and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analyses were performed for the diagnosis of cBA. Changes in cyst size were also evaluated when prenatal US exams were available.

Results

Ten patients (5.5% of biliary atresia cases) with cBA (median age, 48 days) and 11 infants with CC type Ia/b (Ia:Ib=10:1; median age, 20 days) were included. Triangular cord thickness on US (cutoff, 4 mm) showed 100% sensitivity and 90.9% specificity (AUC, 0.964; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.779 to 1.000) and cyst size on MRI (cutoff, 2.2 cm) had 70% sensitivity and 100% specificity (AUC, 0.900; 95% CI, 0.690 to 0.987) for diagnosing cBA. Gallbladder mucosal irregularity on US and an invisible distal common bile duct on MRI were only seen in the cBA group (10 of 10). Only the CC group showed prenatal cysts exceeding 1 cm with postnatal enlargement.

Conclusion

Small cyst size (<1 cm) on prenatal US, triangular cord thickening (≥4 mm) and gallbladder mucosal irregularity on postnatal US, and small cyst size (≤2.2 cm) and an invisible distal common bile duct on MRI can discriminate cBA from CC type Ia/b in infancy.

Performance survey on a new standardized formula for oral signal suppression in MRCP

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Recently, a new biological standardized product for MRCP became available.

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The product is considered effective as oral signal suppressor in T2-w images.

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Obtained MRCP imagery show a good image quality.

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Patients’ feedback on taste and palatability is very high.

Background

Orally administered substances, which reduce image contamination by overlying gastrointestinal fluid signals, can be used to enhance the quality of MRCP images. Recently, a new standardized formula consisting of biological substances has become available. The objective of this study is to provide a first assessment of achievable MRCP image quality, taste and palatability of this new dedicated agent.

Methods

In January 2015 to May 2015 practicing radiologists in Germany, Austria and Switzerland were asked to evaluate image quality as well as taste and palatability when using the new agent (LumiVision^®; b.e. imaging; Baden-Baden; Germany) in MRCP questionnaire. Both criteria were rated with a 6-point Likert scale ranging from “1” (best) to “6” (worst).

Results

A total 185 of 475 radiologic institutions (39%) submitted feedback on image quality, 187 (39%) on the taste/palatability. Assessments of image quality regarding presence of disturbing gastrointestinal fluid signal resulted in a median of 2. The majority of patients rated the subjective taste as very good (median of 1). No side effects of relevance were recorded.

Conclusion

This large survey shows that the tested product is considered effective by radiologists regarding MRCP image quality. Patients’ feedback on taste and palatability was very positive.

Efficacy of oral contrast agents for upper gastrointestinal signal suppression in MRCP: A systematic review of the literature

Background

Orally administered substances which suppress signals from gastrointestinal fluid can be used to enhance image quality in magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). In daily practice, the available substances range from commercial products to regular viands such as fruit juices.

Purpose

To provide an overview on the significance of and the substances used as gastrointestinal fluid signal suppressors in MRCP.

Material and Methods

A systematic review of the existing literature was performed to evaluate the efficacy and efficiency of oral T2-signal suppressors in MRCP.

Results

Twenty-five publications on 16 different oral contrast media were identified. The most commonly used substances were ferumoxsil, ferric ammonium citrate, and pineapple juice. Twenty-three out of 25 publications supported the use of oral signal suppressors in MRCP. Advantages of oral signal suppressors include improved visualization of the pancreatobiliary ductal system, increased help with differential diagnoses, and higher detection rates of relevant diagnoses due to a reduction of overlaying signals.

Conclusion

The application of oral substances for gastrointestinal signal suppression in MRCP is recommendable. A variety of substances are used in daily routine with good but varying effectivity and patient tolerance.

Pediatric Biliary Interventions in the Native Liver

Biliary disease in infants and children frequently presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Pediatric interventional radiologists are often involved in the multidisciplinary teams who care for these patients. This article reviews several notable causes of biliary disease in children who have not undergone liver transplantation, describes the role of percutaneous interventional procedures in managing these conditions, and details applicable biliary interventional techniques.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography for pediatric choledocholithiasis: Assessing the need for endoscopic intervention

AIM: To assess pediatric patients for choledocholithiasis. We applied current adult guidelines to identify predictive factors in children.

METHODS: A single-center retrospective analysis was performed at a tertiary children’s hospital. We evaluated 44 consecutive pediatric patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP) for suspected choledocholithiasis. Patients were stratified into those with common bile duct stones (CBDS) at ERCP vs those that did not using the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) guidelines (Very Strong and Strong criteria) for suspected CBDS.

RESULTS: CBDS were identified in 84% at the time of ERCP. Abdominal ultrasound identified CBDS in 36% of patients. Conjugated bilirubin ≥ 0.5 mg/dL was an independent risk factor for CBDS (P = 0.003). The Very Strong (59.5%) and Strong (48.6%) ASGE criteria identified the majority of patients (P = 0.0001). A modified score using conjugated bilirubin had a higher sensitivity (81.2% vs 59.5%) and more likely to identify a stone than the standard criteria, odds ratio of 25.7 compared to 8.8. Alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transferase values identified significant differences in a subset of patients with odds ratio of 4.1 and 3.25, respectively.

CONCLUSION: Current adult guidelines identified the majority of pediatric patients with CBDS, but specific pediatric guidelines may improve detection, thus decreasing risks and unnecessary procedures.

Factors Interfering with Delineation on MRCP of Pancreaticobiliary Maljunction in Paediatric Patients

Background

The aim of this study was to assess factors for delineating the pancreaticobiliary junction in the presence of pediatric congenital choledochal cysts (CCC) using Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP).

Methods

Retrospective review of medical records for 48 patients with CCC was conducted, including demographics, biliary amylase and MRCP findings if available. With univariate and multivariate logistic regression, we measured significant factors affecting pancreaticobiliary maljunction(PBM) diagnoses by MRCP.

Results

Of the subjects enrolled with CCC. Twenty-eight cases had PBM according to MRCP. Univariate analysis confirmed that age, cyst diameter > 30 mm and cysts that descended to the introitus pelvis affected junctional delineation and detection of PBM (P<0.05). Stepwise logistic regression analysis confirmed large cysts in the introitus pelvis predicted pancreaticobiliary junctional delineation in MRCP and these data agreed with the literature. A correlation between cyst diameter and the length of the common channel was found as was cyst diameter and biliary amylase although there were no significant differences between them.

Conclusions

Age, cyst diameter >30 mm and descending cysts into the introitus pelvis affected junctional delineation of the pancreatic and bile duct in PBM with MRCP. Large cyst descension into the introitus pelvis was an independent factors affecting PBM detection.

Comparison of different noninvasive diagnostic methods for biliary atresia: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This study was undertaken to retrospectively analyze the accuracy of different methods in differentiating biliary atresia from neonatal jaundice.

METHODS

A search was made in MEDLINE, and the Web of Science for relevant original articles published in English; methodological quality of the included studies was also assessed. Two reviewers extracted data independently. Studies were pooled, summary receiver operating characteristics curve and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) with corresponding confidence intervals were calculated.

RESULTS

For diagnosis of biliary atresia, ultrasonography (US), hepatic scintigraphy (HBS), and magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRCP) had a pooled sensitivity of 74.9% (range: 70.4%-79.1%), 93.4% (range: 90.3%-95.7%) and 89.7% (range: 84.8%-93.4%), a specificity of 93.4% (range: 91.4%-95.1%), 69.2% (range: 65.1%-73.1%) and 64.7% (range: 58.0%-71.0%), a positive likelihood ratio of 12.16 (range: 6.41-23.08), 3.01 (range: 2.15-4.20) and 3.10 (range: 1.59-6.06), a negative likelihood ratio of 0.23 (range: 0.13-0.38), 0.13 (range: 0.06-0.25) and 0.16 (range: 0.06-0.44), DOR of 72.56 (range: 27.34-192.58), 29.88 (range: 12.82-69.64) and 32.48 (range: 8.22-128.29), with an area under the curve of 0.96, 0.91, and 0.92, and Q value of 0.90, 0.85, and 0.85, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

US, HBS and MRCP can be very useful for the diagnostic work-up of neonatal cholestasis. To improve the sensitivity and specificity, several additional measures can be used.

Characteristics of Pediatric Pancreatitis on Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography

Pediatric pancreatitis is not uncommon and results in considerable morbidity and mortality in the affected children. Unlike adults, pediatric pancreatitis is more frequently associated with underlying structural abnormalities, trauma, and drugs rather than an idiopathic etiology. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is a good imaging modality for evaluating pancreatitis and determining etiology without exposure to radiation. This article focuses on MRCP findings associated with various causes of pancreatitis in children, particularly structural abnormalities of the pancreaticobiliary system, as well as describing the feasibility, limitations, and solutions associated with pediatric MRCP.

Changing pattern of indications of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in children and adolescents: a twelve-year experience

BACKGROUND

There are few data regarding endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) usefulness in children and adolescents. We reviewed the long-term experience with diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP in a tertiary single center in Southern Brazil.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of patients aged 0-18 years who had undergone ERCPs from January 2000 to June 2012 was done. Data on demographics, indications, diagnosis, treatments, and complications were collected.

RESULTS

Seventy-five ERCPs were performed in 60 patients. The median age of the patients at the procedure was 13.9 years (range: 1.2-17.9). Of the 60 patients, 47 (78.3%) were girls. Of all ERCPs, 48 (64.0%) were performed in patients above 10 years and 35 (72.9%) of them were in girls. ERCP was indicated for patients with bile duct obstruction (49.3%), sclerosing cholangitis (18.7%), post-surgery complication (12%), biliary stent (10.7%), choledochal cyst (5.3%), and pancreatitis (4%). The complication rate of ERCP was 9.7% involving mild bleeding, pancreatitis and cholangitis. Patients who had therapeutic procedures were older (13.7±3.9 vs. 9.9±4.9 years; P=0.001) and had more extrahepatic biliary abnormalities (82% vs. 50%; P=0.015) than those who had diagnostic ERCPs. A marked change in the indications of ERCPs was found, i.e., from 2001 to 2004, indications were more diagnostic and from 2005 therapeutic procedures were predominant.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnostic ERCPs are being replaced by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and also by endoscopic ultrasound. All these procedures are complementary and ERCP still has a role for therapeutic purposes.

The effective use of acai juice, blueberry juice and pineapple juice as negative contrast agents for magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography in children

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is commonly performed in the evaluation of known or suspected pancreaticobiliary disease in children. The administration of a negative oral contrast agent can improve the quality of the examination without significant additional cost. We describe our experience with certain brands of acai juice, blueberry juice and pineapple juice as negative oral contrast agents in children. We believe these fruit juices are safe, palatable and may improve MRCP image quality.

[Cancer developed in cystic dilatation of the bile duct: report of a case]

Les auteurs rapportent un cas de dilatation kystique du cholédoque intra- pancréatique découvert chez une femme de 46 ans et compliqué d'un carcinome tubulo-papillaire n'envahissant pas le pancréas. Le traitement a consisté en une duodénopancréatectomie céphalique avec un curage ganglionnaire et anastomose hépatico-jéjunale; la survie était de 30 mois; les auteurs abordent les aspects radiologiques, anatomopathologiques, thérapeutiques et pronostiques de ces cancers développé sur dilatation kystique de la voie biliaire et discutent la place d'une radiothérapie complémentaire de la chirurgie susceptible d'améliorer la survie.

Diagnosis of sclerosing cholangitis in children: blinded, comparative study of magnetic resonance versus endoscopic cholangiography

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) has been validated as comparable to endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) for the diagnosis of sclerosing cholangitis (SC) in adult patients. In children, MRC is widely used based mainly on non-comparative studies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

ERCs and MRCs of seven children (median age 9, range: 7-20 years) with SC and 17 controls (median age 6, range: 2 months-20 years) with other chronic liver diseases were reviewed in a blinded, random and independent way. All patients underwent both examinations within a 6-months slot. All ERCs and 17 MRCs were performed under general anesthesia. One radiologist evaluated both ERCs and MRCs and one interventional endoscopist independently reviewed only ERCs. Reviewers did not receive any clinical information. Diagnosis of SC, established on the basis of history, laboratory data, radiological examinations and clinical course, was used as gold standard to compare ERC and MRC diagnostic accuracy.

RESULTS

Overall image quality was graded as very good in 57% of MRC and in 71% of ERC cases; difference was not statistically significant (P=0.24) although the probability for MRC to be diagnostic increased with patient's age. Depiction of first, second and fourth-order intrahepatic bile duct was better in ERC (P=0.004, 0.02 and 0.023, respectively); depiction of the extrahepatic bile duct was comparable (P=0.052). Diagnostic accuracy of MRC and ERC was very high, without statistically significant difference (P=0.61).

CONCLUSION

Despite an overall better depiction of the biliary tree by ERC, MRC is comparable for the diagnosis of SC in children. These data support MRC as the first imaging approach in children with suspected SC.

Role of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography in diagnosing choledochal cysts: Case series and review

AIM: To determine the merits of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) as the primary diagnostic test for choledochal cysts (CC’s).

METHODS: Between 2009 and 2012, patients who underwent MRCP for perioperative diagnosis were identified. Demographic information, clinical characteristics, and radiographic findings were recorded. MRCP results were compared with intraoperative findings. A PubMed search identified studies published between 1996-2012, employing MRCP as the primary preoperative imaging and comparing results with either endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or operative findings. Detection rates for CC’s and abnormal pancreaticobiliary junction (APBJ) were calculated. In addition detection rates for clinically related biliary pathology like choledocholithiasis and cholangiocarcinomas in patients diagnosed with CC’s were also evaluated.

RESULTS: Eight patients were identified with CC’s. Six patients out of them had type IV CC’s, 1 had type I and 1 had a new variant of choledochal cyst with confluent dilatation of the common bile duct (CBD) and cystic duct. Seven patients had an APBJ and 3 of those had a long common-channel. Gallstones were found in 2 patients, 1 had a CBD stone, and 1 pancreatic-duct stone was also detected. In all cases, MRCP successfully identified the type of CC’s, as well as APBJ with ductal stones. From analyzing the literature, we found that MRCP has 96%-100% detection rate for CC’s. Additionally, we found that the range for sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy was 53%-100%, 90%-100% and 56%-100% in diagnosing APBJ. MRCP’s detection rate was 100% for choledocholithiasis and 87% for cholangiocarcinomas with concurrent CC’s.

CONCLUSION: After initial ultrasound and computed tomography scan, MRCP should be the next diagnostic test in both adult and pediatric patients. ERCP should be reserved for patients where therapeutic intervention is needed.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the pediatric pancreaticobiliary system

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is an extremely useful tool for evaluating a wide variety of disorders affecting the pancreaticobiliary system in neonates/infants, children, and adolescents. This imaging technique has numerous distinct advantages over alternative diagnostic modalities, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography, including its noninvasive nature and lack of ionizing radiation. Such advantages make MRCP the preferred first-line method for advanced imaging the pediatric pancreaticobiliary tree, after ultrasonography. This article presents a contemporary review of the use of MRCP in the pediatric population, including techniques, indications, and the imaging appearances of common and uncommon pediatric disorders.

MR cholangiopancreatography at 3.0 T in children: diagnostic quality and ability in assessment of common paediatric pancreatobiliary pathology

OBJECTIVE

To assess the diagnostic quality of MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) at 3.0 T in children and to assess its diagnostic ability in answering the clinical query. Also, to determine the frequency of artefacts and anatomic variations in ductal anatomy.

METHODS

Consecutive MRCPs performed in children using a 3-T scanner were retrospectively reviewed to note indications, findings, imaging diagnosis, normal variants, quality and artefacts. Analysis was performed based on the final diagnosis assigned by pathology or the combination of clinical, laboratory, imaging features and follow-up to determine whether it was possible to answer the clinical query by MRCP findings.

RESULTS

There were 82 MRCPs performed at 3.0 T on 77 children. 42/82 (51%) MRCPs were of good quality, 35/82 (43%) MRCPs were suboptimal but diagnostic and the remaining 5/82 (6%) MRCPs were non-diagnostic. MRCP answered the clinical query in 61/82 (74%) cases; however, it did not answer the clinical query in 11/82 (14%) cases and was equivocal in 10/82 (12%) cases. There was significant association between the quality of MRCP and the ability of MRCP to answer the clinical query (p<0.0001). 64/82 (78%) MRCP examinations had at least 1 artefact. Variation in the bile duct anatomy was seen in 27/77 (35%) children.

CONCLUSION

MRCP performed at 3.0 T is of diagnostic quality in most cases and is able to provide an answer to the clinical query in the majority of cases.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

3-T MRCP is feasible and useful in the assessment of pancreatobiliary abnormalities in children.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in children with sickle cell anemia and the role of ERCP

BACKGROUND

Patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA) have a high incidence of cholelithiasis and choledocholithiasis. This report is an analysis of our experience with laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for children with SCA and the role of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The records of children with SCA who had cholecystectomy were retrospectively reviewed for age, sex, hemoglobin level, hemoglobin electrophoresis, indication for cholecystectomy, operative time, hospital stay, and postoperative complications. They were divided into 2 groups, open cholecystectomy (OC) group and LC group, and the 2 were compared in terms of operative time, hospital stay, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Over a period of 15 years (January 1995 and December 2009), 94 children with SCA had cholecystectomy. Thirty-five (19 males and 16 females) had OC, 52 (28 males and 24 females) had LC, and 7 (4 males and 3 females) had LC and splenectomy. Their age ranged from 4 to 15 years (mean, 11.4 y). The indications for cholecystectomy were biliary dyspepsia and biliary colic (55), acute cholecystitis (7), obstructive jaundice (17), asymptomatic (12), and biliary pancreatitis (3). All those who had OC underwent intraoperative cholangiogram, 9 of them (25.7%) had common bile duct (CBD) exploration and 2 transduodenal sphincterotomy. Of those who had LC, 13 (25%) underwent preoperative ERCP, which was normal in 1, showed dilated CBD with no stones in 2, and dilated CBD with stones in 7. In 3, ERCP showed dilated CBD with enlarged, inflammed papilla suggestive of recent stone passage. Nine underwent endoscopic sphincterotomy and stone extraction followed by LC. There was no mortality; 1 (2.1%) required conversion to OC and another underwent postoperative exploration because of bleeding from an accessory cystic artery. In the LC group, 4 (7.7%) developed minor postoperative complications, whereas 8 (22.9%) in the OC group developed complications.

CONCLUSIONS

With proper perioperative management, LC is feasible, safe, and superior to OC in children with SCA with regard to postoperative complications, duration of hospital stay, cosmetic appearance, and postoperative recovery. LC should be the treatment of choice for both symptomatic and asymptomatic cholelithiasis in children with SCA. ERCP is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic investigation both preoperatively and postoperatively. The sequential approach of endoscopic sphincterotomy and stone extraction followed by LC is a safe and effective approach for the management of cholelithiasis and choledocholithiasis in children with SCA.

Biliary duplication cyst with heterotopic gastric mucosa resulting in obstruction of the biliary system: a case report

Biliary tract duplication cysts with heterotopic gastric mucosa are rare congenital anomalies, with our case representing only the fourth reported case in the literature. An 8-year-old girl with several months of abdominal pain was found to have a complex cystic mass communicating with the biliary system via the common hepatic duct. Intraoperatively, inflammation caused by the cystic mass was found to have resulted in a Mirizzi-like syndrome, with a nearly complete obstruction at the confluence of the left and right hepatic ducts. Histopathologic examination of the biliary mass revealed it to be a duplication cyst lined by heterotopic gastric mucosa with secondary ulceration and fibrosis. Biliary duplication cysts are a rare but important process that should be considered in a child with a mass in the portal triad and biliary obstruction.

Usefulness of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography in pancreatobiliary abnormalities in pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is an innovative and noninvasive technique for evaluating the biliary tree and pancreatic duct in children. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of MRCP as a noninvasive method to evaluate the biliary system in children.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients undergoing MRCP between October 2002 and May 2007 for suspected biliary system abnormalities. MRCP findings were compared with other imaging modalities, operative findings, and clinical endpoints.

RESULTS

Complete data were available for 60 patients (35 girls, 25 boys; mean age 2 years, 33 children less than 1 year old). Ultrasound was performed in all 60 patients. Twenty-two patients had choledochal cyst, and 19 had a thin or invisible gall bladder. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was done in two patients. The sensitivities and specificities of MRCP for diagnosing choledochal cyst and biliary atresia were 100.0% and 100.0% and 86.7% and 100.0%, respectively. Surgery was performed in 37 patients, including 21 with a choledochal cyst, 14 with biliary atresia, and 1 with a pancreatic duct stone.

CONCLUSION

MRCP is useful method for evaluation of the pancreaticobiliary system in pediatric patients. It yields a high degree of accuracy in the diagnosis of biliary atresia and choledochal cyst.

Case report: Cholangiocarcinoma in a choledochal cyst

Cholangiocarcinoma is a dreaded complication of unresected choledochal cysts, with an incidence approaching 20-30% in early adulthood. The risk of cholangiocarcinoma remains high where an internal drainage procedure has been performed and the cyst has been partially resected or left unresected. We report a case of cholangiocarcinoma occurring in an unresected choledochal cyst following a drainage procedure in infancy and highlight the role of PET/CT in its diagnosis.

Hepatobiliary and pancreatic imaging in children-techniques and an overview of non-neoplastic disease entities

Imaging plays a major role in the diagnostic work-up of children with hepatobiliary or pancreatic diseases. It consists mainly of US, CT and MRI, with US and MRI being the preferred imaging modalities because of the lack of ionizing radiation. In this review the technique of US, CT and MRI in children will be addressed, followed by a comprehensive overview of the imaging characteristics of several hepatobiliary and pancreatic disease entities most common in the paediatric age group.

Selective use of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the diagnosis of biliary atresia in infants younger than 100 days

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the role and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in diagnosing biliary atresia (BA) in prolonged neonatal cholestasis, when standard workup was inconclusive.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed notes of 48 cholestatic infants younger than 100 days undergoing ERCP from 1997 to 2007.

RESULTS

Amongst approximately 3300 infants evaluated for liver disease during the study, 224 (6.8%) were diagnosed with BA. Forty-eight children underwent ERCP. Findings at liver biopsy (n=47) included nonspecific cholestasis (n=19, 40%), giant-cell hepatitis (n=12, 26%), "large bile duct obstruction" (n=9, 19%) in the presence of pigmented stools, and mixed cholestatic/hepatitic features (n=7, 15%). ERCP demonstrated a patent biliary tree in 20 infants (42%). BA was confirmed at exploratory laparotomy in all 3 infants (6%) in whom cannulation failed. The remaining 25 infants (52%) also proceeded to exploratory laparotomy, in which BA was confirmed in 22 (46%). Amongst the 20 children in whom ERCP ruled out BA, 8 (17%) had normal biliary anatomy, whilst 12 (25%) had an abnormal biliary tree, including 6 (12.5%) with neonatal sclerosing cholangitis. After ERCP none developed clinical pancreatitis or peritonitis.

CONCLUSIONS

ERCP is a safe procedure for diagnosing BA even in the smallest infants with high positive and negative predictive values.

Congenital choledochal malformation: not just a problem for children

Choledochal cysts remain relatively uncommon in Western Europe and the US, although they are appreciably more common in Asia. Their aetiology remains obscure although abnormalities of the pancreaticobiliary junction may be the primary pathology in some, with biliary dilatation following reflux of activated pancreatic secretions. Most anomalies will present in childhood with obstructive jaundice or abdominal pain; a proportion may only present for the first time during adulthood, and some of these will show malignant transformation. The classical triad of pain, jaundice and a palpable mass is, however, not common. Complete cyst excision, where possible, and biliary reconstruction remain the aims for most types although there is still some controversy about the type of reconstruction. Laparoscopic reconstruction is possible but is still very much an advanced technique. The risk of long-term problems post-surgery is significant. Whether this is due to recurrent pancreatitis secondary to the retained common channel and/or a distal stump, or due to the development of biliary tract malignancy is still a cause for concern and indicates the need for adequate, prolonged follow-up.

Pediatric MR cholangiopancreatography: principles, technique, and clinical applications

High-quality magnetic resonance (MR) cholangiopancreatographic images are difficult to obtain in children due to the small caliber of the pediatric bile ducts and to motion artifacts. However, there has been ongoing improvement in image quality, thanks to better coil technology, increased speed of acquisition, refinement in respiratory compensation techniques, and newer sequences. Heavily T2-weighted fast spin-echo (FSE) and single-shot FSE MR imaging sequences with long echo times are used to image the biliary and pancreatic ducts. Secretin has been shown to improve the visualization of the pancreatic duct and pancreaticobiliary junction. Factors that affect image quality in pediatric MR cholangiopancreatography include sedation, negative oral contrast material, radiofrequency coil selection, respiratory compensation techniques, echo time, echo train length, section-slab thickness, planes of scanning, field of view, and number of signals acquired. However, giving proper attention to these factors and tailoring the study to the body size of the patient (which varies considerably) can lead to high-quality diagnostic MR cholangiopancreatographic images. Use of MR cholangiopancreatography in children is limited by the need for sedation or anesthesia, high cost, limited availability, and long scanning times. Nonetheless, this modality can be a viable alternative to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in the evaluation of various entities such as choledochal cyst, recurrent pancreatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and a transplanted liver, and may obviate ERCP.

MR fetography using heavily T2-weighted sequences: comparison of thin- and thick-slab acquisitions

PURPOSE

To evaluate the use of MR-fetography sequences in identifying the major fetal structures and to compare thick- and thin-slab acquisitions for their diagnostic value.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-one consecutive, pregnant women with suspected fetal pathology underwent fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using a 1.5 T MRI unit. Heavily T2-weighted, single-shot fast spin-echo (SSFSE) sequences with a long echo train (MR-fetography) were acquired in a thick- and thin-slab modus. Thick- and thin-slab acquisitions were reviewed by two experienced radiologists with regard to the overall image quality and landmark anatomical structures (spinal canal, spinal cord, posterior fossa, cerebellum, brainstem, basal cisterns, stomach, urinary bladder and umbilical cord according to a three-scale grading system (good, moderate and poor). Visibility scores were calculated and compared between both sequences.

RESULTS

Overall image quality was graded good in 76.2%, moderate in 19.0% and poor in 4.8% for thick-slab images and good in 81%, moderate in 14.3% and poor in 4.8% for thin-slab images. The visibility scores of the thick/thin-slab images for evaluation of the main fetal structures were as follows: for the spinal canal 2.8+/-0.4/2.9+/-0.54 (p>0.05), spinal cord 2.4+/-0.75/2.7+/-0.66 (p>0.05), posterior fossa components (cerebellum, brainstem and basal cisterns) 2.4+/-0.68/2.8+/-0.54; 2.4+/-0.67/2.7+/-0.66; 2.5+/-0.51/2.7+/-0.56 (p<0.05), stomach 2.8+/-0.44/2.9+/-0.48 (p>0.05), urinary bladder 2.8+/-0.51/2.8+/-0.54 (p>0.05) and umbilical cord 2.9+/-0.30/2.6+/-0.60 (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Heavily T2-weighted MR-fetography renders a quick overview of fetal contours, fetal position, amount of amniotic fluid and integrity and presence of several major fluid containing structures. Thick- and thin-slab acquisitions render complementary information. Thick-slab images display the entire fetus in one projection while thin-slab images provide more detailed anatomical information. The short imaging time usually allows measuring both thick- and thin-slab images. MR-fetography is as a helpful addition to conventional fetal MRI. MR-fetography should not be viewed as a single, stand alone sequence but as a supporting fast MR sequence in a well-designed multisequence fetal MRI protocol. Future studies evaluating larger patient groups are mandatory.

Pancreatitis in children and adolescents

Several clinical and methodologic difficulties occur when diagnosing acute pancreatitis in the pediatric age group. Due to its uncommonness and heterogeneous symptoms, acute pancreatitis in children is often misdiagnosed, and prospective studies are lacking. Guidelines for classifying, diagnosing, and managing acute pancreatitis are frequently based on standards that are developed and validated in adult patients. Among the broad range of etiologies of pediatric acute pancreatitis in children, gallstones and biliary disease may play a greater role than previously believed. Although it is typically a benign disease in the pediatric population, complications such as pseudocysts may occur. When there are fatalities, they are usually attributed to systemic illness rather than the pancreatitis itself. Improvements in diagnostic and imaging methods and growing awareness cannot account for the recent increases in the observed incidence of pediatric acute pancreatitis.