Impact of laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a population-based study

COVID-free surgical pathways for treating patients with acute calculous cholecystitis: a retrospective comparative study

Introduction

During the Sars-Cov-2 crisis, some of the resources committed to emergency surgery services were transiently reallocated to the care of patients with severe COVID-19, preserving immediate treatment of mostly non-deferrable conditions. Moreover, the fear of contracting infections or hindering the treatment of critical COVID-19 patients has caused many individuals to defer seeking emergency care. This situation has then possibly modified the standard of care of some common surgical conditions and the relative outcomes. Our aims was to highlight any difference in surgical outcomes in patients treated for acute cholecystitis before and during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Method

This is a retrospective study on a prospectively collected database that included all consecutive patients treated for acute cholecystitis from March 2019 to February 2021 at the Lugano Regional Hospital, a COVID-free hospital for general surgery patients. Patients were divided into pre-and post-COVID-19 outbreak groups. We collected thorough clinical characteristics and intra-and postoperative outcomes.

Results

We included 124 patients, of which 60 and 64 were operated on before and after the COVID-19 outbreak respectively. The two groups resulted similar in terms of patients' clinical characteristics (age, gender, body mass index, ASA score, and comorbidities). Patients in the post-outbreak period were admitted to the hospital 0.7 days later than patients in the pre-outbreak period (3.8 ± 6.0 days vs. 3.1 ± 4.1 days, p = 0.453). Operative time, recovery room time, complications, and reoperations resulted similar between groups. More patients in the post-outbreak period received postoperative antibiotic therapy (63.3% vs. 37.5%, p = 0.004) and for a longer time (6.9 ± 5.1 days vs. 4.5 ± 3.9 days, p = 0.020). No significant histopathological difference was found in operatory specimens.

Discussion

Despite more frequent antibiotic therapy that suggests eventually worse inflammatory local status, our results showed similar outcomes for patients treated for acute cholecystitis before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The local COVID management, reallocating resources, and keeping COVID-free hospitals was key to offering patients a high standard of treatment.

For safe and fast surgery: Utilization of the SAND balloon catheter for acute cholecystitis

BACKGROUND

The utility of the SAND balloon catheter in laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis (AC) remains unclear.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent emergency cholecystectomy at Shinshu University was performed to evaluate the efficacy of the SAND balloon catheter in cases of AC (SAND balloon utilization: Group S, n = 44; non-utilization: Group non-S, n = 47).

RESULTS

The duration of surgery was significantly shorter in Group S than in Group non-S (p = .031). Despite comparable incidences of blood transfusions in the two groups, intraoperative blood loss was significantly less in Group S than in Group non-S (p = .013). The incidence of postoperative intraperitoneal infection tended to be higher in Group non-S (p = .076). Within Group non-S, bile spillage during operation was found in 16 (34.0%) patients. The multivariate analysis revealed that gangrenous AC was the strongest independent risk factor for bile spillage during operation (odds ratio [OR]: 19.1; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.84-78.4; p = .002), followed by surgeons with ≤10 years of experience (OR: 11.3; 95% CI: 1.81-70.6; p < .010).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of the SAND balloon catheter in patients with AC is a safe and efficacious surgical option. This catheter is recommended in cases of gangrenous cholecystitis and for surgeons with limited experience.

Impact of interstitial cells of Cajal on slow wave and gallbladder contractility in a guinea pig model of acute cholecystitis

BACKGROUND

Impaired interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) are central to the pathophysiology of acute cholecystitis (AC). Common bile duct ligation is a common model of AC, producing acute inflammatory changes and decrease in gallbladder contractility.

AIM

To investigate the origin of slow wave (SW) in the gallbladder and the effect of ICCs on gallbladder contractions during the process of AC.

METHODS

Methylene blue (MB) with light was used to establish selective impaired ICCs gallbladder tissue. Gallbladder motility was assessed using the frequency of SW and gallbladder muscle contractility in vitro in normal control (NC), AC12h, AC24h, and AC48h groups of guinea pigs. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson-stained gallbladder tissues were scored for inflammatory changes. ICCs pathological changes alterations were estimated using immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. The alterations of c-Kit, α-SMA, cholecystokinin A receptor (CCKAR), and connexin 43 (CX43) were assessed using Western blot.

RESULTS

Impaired ICCs muscle strips resulted in the decrease in gallbladder SW frequency and contractility. The frequency of SW and gallbladder contractility were significantly lower in the AC12h group. Compared with the NC group, the density and ultrastructure of ICCs were remarkably impaired in the AC groups, especially in the AC12h group. The protein expression levels of c-Kit were significantly decreased in the AC12h group, while CCKAR and CX43 protein expression levels were significantly decreased in the AC48h group.

CONCLUSION

Loss ICCs could lead to a decrease in gallbladder SW frequency and contractility. The density and ultrastructure of ICCs were clearly impaired in the early stage of AC, while CCKAR and CX43 were significantly reduced at end stage.

Acute Cholecystitis: A Review

IMPORTANCE

Gallbladder disease affects approximately 20 million people in the US. Acute cholecystitis is diagnosed in approximately 200 000 people in the US each year.

OBSERVATIONS

Gallstone-associated cystic duct obstruction is responsible for 90% to 95% of the cases of acute cholecystitis. Approximately 5% to 10% of patients with acute cholecystitis have acalculous cholecystitis, defined as acute inflammation of the gallbladder without gallstones, typically in the setting of severe critical illness. The typical presentation of acute cholecystitis consists of acute right upper quadrant pain, fever, and nausea that may be associated with eating and physical examination findings of right upper quadrant tenderness. Ultrasonography of the right upper quadrant has a sensitivity of approximately 81% and a specificity of approximately 83% for the diagnosis of acute cholecystitis. When an ultrasound result does not provide a definitive diagnosis, hepatobiliary scintigraphy (a nuclear medicine study that includes the intravenous injection of a radiotracer excreted in the bile) is the gold standard diagnostic test. Following diagnosis, early (performed within 1-3 days) vs late (performed after 3 days) laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with improved patient outcomes, including fewer composite postoperative complications (11.8% for early vs 34.4% for late), a shorter length of hospital stay (5.4 days vs 10.0 days), and lower hospital costs. During pregnancy, early laparoscopic cholecystectomy, compared with delayed operative management, is associated with a lower risk of maternal-fetal complications (1.6% for early vs 18.4% for delayed) and is recommended during all trimesters. In people older than 65 years of age, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with lower mortality at 2-year follow-up (15.2%) compared with nonoperative management (29.3%). A percutaneous cholecystostomy tube, in which a drainage catheter is placed in the gallbladder lumen under image guidance, is an effective therapy for patients with an exceptionally high perioperative risk. However, percutaneous cholecystostomy tube placement in a randomized trial was associated with higher rates of postprocedural complications (65%) compared with laparoscopic cholecystectomy (12%). For patients with acalculous acute cholecystitis, percutaneous cholecystostomy tube should be reserved for patients who are severely ill at the time of diagnosis; all others should undergo a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Acute cholecystitis, typically due to gallstone obstruction of the cystic duct, affects approximately 200 000 people in the US annually. In most patient populations, laparoscopic cholecystectomy, performed within 3 days of diagnosis, is the first-line therapy for acute cholecystitis.

Estimated Costs Associated with Surgical Site Infections in Patients Undergoing Cholecystectomy

Among healthcare-associated infections, surgical site infections (SSIs) are the most frequent in Spain. The aim of this work was to estimate the costs of SSIs in patients who underwent a cholecystectomy at the Hospital General Universitario de Alicante (Spain) between 2012-2017. This was a prospective observational cohort study. The Active Epidemiological Surveillance Program at our hospital recorded all the cholecystectomies performed. Risk factors associated with the development of SSIs were determined by multivariate analysis and two homogeneous comparison groups were obtained by using the propensity score. The number of extra days of hospital stay were recorded for patients with an SSI and with the cost per hospitalised day data, the additional cost attributed to SSIs was calculated. A total of 2200 cholecystectomies were considered; 110 patients (5.0%) developed an SSI. The average length of hospital stay was 5.6 days longer among patients with an SSI. The cost per SSI was EUR 1890.60 per patient, with the total cost for this period being EUR 207,961.60. SSIs after cholecystectomy lead to a prolongation of hospital stay and an increase in economic costs. It is essential to implement infection surveillance and control programs to reduce SSIs, improve patient safety, and reduce economic burden.

Comparison of hemodynamic changes in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy using rocuronium and vecuronium for intubation and maintenance under general anesthesia

Context:

The context of the study is to compare and find better muscle relaxant between rocuronium and vecuronium for intubation and maintenance under general anesthesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Aims:

The aim of the study is to measure intubating condition, hemodynamic changes during intubation and also during maintenance of general anesthesia and to record complications, if any.

Settings and Design:

A prospective clinical study conducted in the Department of Anesthesiology in tertiary care center.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 100 patients of the American Society of Anesthesiologists Classes Grade I and II were planned for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were divided into two groups of 50 each. The subjects in the control and study group were put under anesthesia using injection propofol 2.0 mg.kg⁻¹ along with injection vecuronium 0.10 mg.kg⁻¹ and injection propofol 2.0 mg.kg⁻¹ along with injection rocuronium 0.60 mg.kg⁻¹, respectively. Hemodynamic monitoring and oxygen saturation (SPO₂) were recorded at various intervals.

Statistical Analysis Used:

All the collected data were imported into Microsoft Excel, and the statistical analysis was done by using SPSS 25.0 version.

Results:

The mean heart rate before and after carboperitoneum at different time intervals and before and after extubation was significantly lower in vecuronium group. The mean systolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure at 1 and 5 minutes after extubation were significantly more among vecuronium group.

Conclusions:

Rocuronium is reasonably cardiostable, produces excellent intubation conditions, has a shorter duration of action, and shows minimal cumulative effect.

Mortalidad perioperatoria y volumen quirúrgico de colecistectomías en el régimen contributivo en Colombia

Introducción. La patología biliar es una causa frecuente de intervención quirúrgica, Pero en Colombia no se cuenta con datos oficiales de mortalidad ni volumen quirúrgico asociados a este procedimiento. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el volumen de colecistectomías y describir la tasa general de mortalidad perioperatoria en seis regiones geográficas del país, en el periodo de 2012 a 2016. Métodos. Estudio de cohortes retrospectivo que incluyó pacientes mayores de 18 años, afiliados al régimen contributivo de salud, llevados a colecistectomía. Se utilizó la base de datos de suficiencia de la Unidad de Pago por Capitación (UPC), la base de estadísticas vitales del Departamento Administrativo Nacional de Estadística (DANE) y la del Sistema Integrado de Información de la Protección Social (SISPRO). Resultados. Durante el periodo de estudio, se realizaron 192.080 colecistectomías, lo que corresponde a 206 colecistectomías por 100.000 habitantes. Se encontró mayor volumen quirúrgico en personas entre los 65 y 80 años, en el sexo femenino y en la ciudad de Bogotá. La mortalidad perioperatoria encontrada correspondió al 0,6 %, siendo mayor en los pacientes de sexo masculino, de edad avanzada, en aquellos en quienes se practicó laparotomía y en los pacientes operados en la ciudad de Bogotá. Discusión. De acuerdo con los hallazgos, esta investigación puede servir de base para estudios posteriores, que muestren claramente las cifras oficiales de volumen quirúrgico y de mortalidad por colecistectomía en Colombia.

Impacts on outcomes and management of preoperative magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography in patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy: for whom it should be considered?

Purpose

We evaluated the impact of preoperative magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) on patient outcomes, and found which patients should be considered for MRCP before cholecystectomy.

Methods

We performed retrospective analysis of 2,072 patients that underwent cholecystectomy for benign gallbladder disease from January 2014 to June 2017. Patients were grouped as CT only group (n = 737) and MRCP group (n = 1,335), including both CT and MRCP (n = 1,292) or MRCP only (n = 43). The main outcome measure was associated with complications after cholecystectomy, and the secondary outcomes were hospital stay, readmission, and events that could impact patient management due to addition of MRCP.

Results

There were no statistical differences in occurrence of intraoperative or postoperative complications or readmission rate between the 2 groups. Hospital stay was about 0.6 days longer in the MRCP group. However, MRCP group was more susceptible to complications due to underlying patient demographics (older age, higher frequency of diabetes, and higher level of the inflammatory markers). MRCP diagnosed common bile duct (CBD) stones in 6.5% of patients (84/1,292) without CBD stones in CT, and bile duct anomalies were identified in 41 patients (3.2%). Elevated γ-GT was the only independent factor for additional detection of CBD stones (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.89; P = 0.029) and subsequent biliary procedures (adjusted OR, 3.34; P = 0.018) when additional MRCP was performed.

Conclusion

MRCP is valuable for identification of bile duct variation and CBD stones. Preoperative MRCP can be considered, particularly in patients with elevated γ-GT, for proper preoperative management and avoidance of complications.

Increases in cholecystectomy for gallstone related disease in South Africa

Studies suggest that the rate gallstone disease in Africa is low. Previous studies suggested an increase in gallstone rates and cholecystectomies related to urbanization and the adoption of Western lifestyle habits. This study examined cholecystectomy rates for gallstone disease in South Africa (SA). An audit of cholecystectomies in SA was done by reviewing gallbladder specimens processed by the SA National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) from 2004 and 2014. Urbanization rates were obtained from Statistics South Africa and BMI data from previously published studies. Fisher's exact test, t test's and Pearson's R were used for comparisons; cholecystectomy rates were calculated per 100,000 population. 33,467 cholecystectomy specimens were analysed. There was a 92% absolute increase in cholecystectomies during the study period (Pearson r 0.94; p < 0.01) with the overall cholecystectomy rate increasing by 65% from 8.36 to 13.81 per 100,000 population. The data was divided into two equal periods and compared. During the second period there was a 28.8% increase in the number cholecystectomies and patients were significantly younger (46.9 vs 48.2 years; p ≤ 0.0001). The Northern Cape was the only province to show a decline in the cholecystectomy rate in this period and was also the only province to record a decline in urbanization. Population based studies in SA demonstrate increases in BMI and an association with increased urbanization. This nationwide African study demonstrates a sustained increase in cholecystectomies for gallstone disease. Increases in BMI and urbanization may be responsible for this trend.

Evolution of bile duct repair in a low and middle-income country (LMIC): a comparison of diagnosis, referral, management and outcomes in repair of bile duct injury after laparoscopic cholecystectomy from 1991 to 2004 and 2005-2017

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of data from the developing world regarding laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) bile duct injuries (BDIs), despite the fact that most of the world's population live in a developing country. We assessed how referral patterns, management and outcomes after LC-BDI repair have evolved over time in patients treated at a tertiary referral center in a low and middle-income country (LMIC).

METHODS

Patients with LC-BDIs requiring hepaticojejunostomy were identified from a prospective database. Clinical characteristics, geographic distance from referral hospital, timing of referral and repair, and post-operative outcomes were compared in two cohorts treated during 1991-2004 and 2005-2017.

RESULTS

Of 125 patients, 32 underwent repair in the early period, 93 in the latter. There was no difference in demographic or clinical characteristics, but a 45.6% increase in geographically distant referrals in the 2005-2017 period. Time from diagnosis to referral and referral to repair increased significantly (p = 0.031, p < 0.001), necessitating more intermediate repairs. Despite this, the number of severe complications decreased (p = 0.022) while long-term outcomes remained unchanged.

CONCLUSION

In this study from an LMIC, geographic and logistic constraints necessitated deviation from accepted algorithms devised for well-resourced countries. When appropriately adapted, results comparable to those reported from developed countries are achievable.

Current Status in the Treatment of Acute Cholecystitis Patients Receiving Antithrombotic Therapy: Is Endoscopic Drainage Feasible?- A Systematic Review

The bleeding complication risk of surgery or percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) may increase in patients with acute cholecystitis receiving antithrombotic therapy (ATT). Endoscopic gallbladder drainage (EGBD) may be recommended for such patients. English articles published between 1991 and 2018 in peer-reviewed journals that discuss cholecystectomy, PTGBD, and EGBD in patients with ATT or coagulopathy were reviewed to assess the safety of the procedures, especially in terms of the bleeding complication. There were 8 studies on cholecystectomy, 3 on PTGBD, and 1 on endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder drainage (ETGBD) in patients receiving ATT. With respect to EGBD, 28 studies on ETGBD (including 1 study already mentioned above) and 26 studies on endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) were also analyzed. The overall bleeding complication rate in patients with ATT who underwent cholecystectomy was significantly higher than that in patients without ATT (6.5% [23/354] vs. 1.2% [26/2,224], p<0.001). However, the bleeding risk of cholecystectomy and PTGBD in patients receiving ATT was controversial. The overall technical success, clinical success, and bleeding complication rates of ETGBD vs. EUS-GBD were 84% vs. 96% (p<0.001), 92% vs. 97% (p<0.001), and 0.65% vs. 2.1% (p=0.005), respectively. One patient treated with ETGBD experienced bleeding complication among 191 patients with bleeding tendency. ETGBD may be an ideal drainage procedure for patients receiving ATT from the viewpoint of bleeding, although EUS-GBD is also efficacious.

Biliary sphincterotomy reduces the risk of acute gallstone pancreatitis recurrence in non-candidates for cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Population aging and comorbidity are leading to an increase in patients unfit for cholecystectomy.

AIMS

To evaluate whether endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy after a first episode of acute gallstone pancreatitis reduces the risk of pancreatitis recurrence and gallstone-related events in non-surgical candidates.

METHODS

Retrospective study of patients admitted for a first episode of acute gallstone pancreatitis rejected for cholecystectomy between 2013-2018. The role of endoscopic sphincterotomy was evaluated by adjusting for age, severity of pancreatitis, and presence of choledocholithiasis.

RESULTS

We included 247 patients (mean age 80 ± 12 years; Charlson index: 5; severity of pancreatitis: 72% mild). Sphincterotomy was performed in 23.9%. Recurrence of pancreatitis occurred in 17.4% patients (median follow-up: 426 days). The one-year cumulative incidence of a new episode of pancreatitis was 1.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2-12%) and 23% (95% CI: 17-31%) in patients with and without sphincterotomy, respectively (p = 0.006). In multivariate analysis, sphincterotomy showed a protective role for recurrence of pancreatitis (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.08-0.92, p = 0.037) and for any gallstone-related event (HR 0.46, 95% CI: 0.21-0.98, p = 0.043).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy reduced the risk of gallstone pancreatitis recurrence and other biliary-related disorders in patients with a first episode of pancreatitis non-candidates for cholecystectomy.

Evaluation of Arterial to End-tidal Carbon Dioxide Pressure Differences during Laparoscopic Renal Surgery in the Lateral Decubitus Position

Background:

End-tidal carbon dioxide (PEtCO₂) is a noninvasive reliable technique to measure arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in the body under general anesthesia. However, gradient between PaCO₂ and PEtCO₂ (P[a-Et] CO₂) is influenced by many factors.

Aims:

In the present study, we evaluated the changes in P (a-Et) CO₂ for laparoscopic donor nephrectomy in lateral decubitus position (LDP).

Settings and Design:

This was an observational, double-blinded, tertiary care center-based study.

Methods:

Thirty-one American Society of Anesthesiologists Class I and Class II patients of either sex undergoing laparoscopic donor nephrectomy in LDP under general anesthesia were included. An arterial cannula was inserted, PaCO₂ was measured at eight predesignated time intervals, and PEtCO₂ was also noted at the corresponding time period.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance for repeated measurements using one dependent variable and one within-subject factor (time). Quantitative data were presented as mean ± standard deviation or median and interquartile range, as appropriate.

Results:

The mean P (a-Et) CO₂ gradient was 5.67 ± 1.36 mmHg 10 min after induction of anesthesia in the supine position (T1a). Ten minutes after LDP, P (a-Et) CO₂ gradient was 7.38 ± 1.45 mmHg (T1b) and was higher than T1a. The P (a-Et) CO₂ values 10 min after release of pneumoperitoneum and 10 min after making the patient supine were significantly higher than the T1a value. The highest value of P (a-Et) CO₂ gradient was at 30 min after creation of pneumoperitoneum (T30), i.e., 9.99 ± 1.70 mmHg. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed that the degree of correlation varied considerably during surgery due to interindividual variability (R² T1a vs. T60 was 0.61 vs. 0.17).

Conclusions:

PEtCO₂ does not reliably predict PaCO₂ in healthy patients scheduled for laparoscopic renal surgery in LDP.

Appropriate Hospital Discharge Timing after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Comparison of Postoperative Day 1 vs. Day 2 Discharge Protocol

Purpose

The critical pathway (CP) was introduced as a means to provide quality healthcare service in many fields of surgery. CP may increase the patient’s satisfaction rate and lowering hospital stay and medical cost also. We aimed to compare the two kinds of CP applied in laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients by different hospital stay length.

Methods

From March 2016 to October 2016, 71 patients were enrolled in this analysis among 241 patients who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients were divided into two groups, 38 patients in the 1-day CP group and 33 patients in the 2-day CP group. In a retrospective review, surgical outcomes and related hospital costs were analyzed.

Results

Preoperative characteristics were not different between two CP groups. In analysis of operative outcome, 2-day CP group showed longer operative time than 1-day CP (73.4 vs 54.1 min, p<0.001); otherwise, there was no significant difference in frequency of postop complications (6.1% vs 2.6%, p=0.474), numerical rating scale (NRS) pain score (1.82 vs 2.16, p=0.052), and count of analgesics injection (0.12 vs 0.16, p=0.754). Total admission cost and actual patient’s expenditures were higher in 2-day CP group, but there was no statistically significant difference (347.04 vs 306.69×10⁴ won, p=0.106; 147.85 vs 125.58×10⁴ won, p=0.276).

Conclusion

The length of hospital stay was shortened in 1-day CP group than in 2-day CP group, while there was no difference in other parameters. Therefore, it is feasible and safe practical policy the use 1-day CP in selected patients who undergo cholecystectomy according to our results.

The Impact of a Surgical Unit's Structure and Operative Technique on Quality in Two Swedish Rural Hospitals

Introduction: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is a commonly performed surgical procedure with a low complication rate. It is performed either as an acute or as an elective procedure. Most elective LCs are performed on nonlethal diseases and this is why good quality is important. Our study compared the quality of LC in two surgical units in northern Sweden (Sundsvall and Östersund) which use different clinical structures (subspecialised vs. general surgery) and surgical techniques (ultrasound fundus first vs. conventional diathermy). The study aimed to investigate whether these differences affected the quality of outcomes after LC. Materials and methods: This is a registry-based study which included 607 elective LCs from January 2014 to May 2016. There were 286 from Sundsvall and 321 from Östersund. Primary outcomes were operative time and the percentage of day surgeries. The secondary outcome was the presence of postoperative complications within the first 30 days in terms of bile duct injury, bleeding that necessitated reoperation, bile leakage and abscesses treated with drainage and mortality. Results: The time length of surgery was shorter in Sundsvall (mean 48.3 min) compared to Östersund (mean 108.6 min, p < 0.001. The percentage of day care surgeries was 94% in Sundsvall and 23% in Östersund, p < 0.001. Six patients (2.1%) had a complication in Sundsvall compared to seven patients (2.2%) in Östersund, p = 1.00. Conclusion: There is a significant difference between the two hospitals regarding operative time and the percentage of day surgeries. Complication rates in both units were equal and low.

Cholecystectomy Risk in Crohn's Disease Patients After Ileal Resection: a Long-term Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The risk of gallstone disease necessitating cholecystectomy after ileal resection (IR) in Crohn's disease (CD) patients is not well established. We studied the incidence, cumulative and relative risk of cholecystectomy after IR in CD patients, and associated risk factors.

METHODS

CD patients with a first IR between 1991 and 2015 were identified in PALGA, a nationwide pathology database in the Netherlands. Details on subsequent cholecystectomy and IR were recorded. Yearly cholecystectomy rates from the general Dutch population were used as a reference.

RESULTS

A cohort of 8302 (3466 (41.7%) males) CD patients after IR was identified. During the 11.9 (IQR 6.3-18.0) years median follow-up, the post-IR incidence rate of cholecystectomy was 5.2 (95% CI 3.5-6.4)/1000 persons/year. The cumulative incidence was 0.5% at 1 year, 2.4% at 5 years, 4.6% at 10 years, and 10.3% after 20 years. In multivariable analyses, female sex (HR 1.9, CI 1.5-2.3), a later calendar year of first IR (HR_{/5-year increase}, HR 1.27, CI 1.18-1.35), and ileal re-resection (time-dependent HR 1.37, CI 1.06-1.77) were associated with cholecystectomy. In the last decade, cholecystectomy rates increased and were higher in our postoperative CD population than in the general population (relative incidence ratio 3.13 (CI 2.29-4.28; p < 0.0001) in 2015).

CONCLUSIONS

Although higher in females, increasing in recent years, and higher than in the general population, the overall risk of cholecystectomy in CD patients following IR is low and routine prophylactic measures seem unwarranted.

Oral Pregabalin as Premedication on Anxiolysis and Stress Response to Laryngoscopy and Endotracheal Intubation in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Double-Blind Study

Background

Direct laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation lead to increase in heart rate and blood pressure. This can cause serious complications in patients with coronary artery disease, reactive airways, or intracranial neuropathology. Preoperative anxiety is associated with greater level of postoperative pain. Attenuation of anxiety and hemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and intubation are cornerstone of better anesthetic outcome. Gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) have been known to possess anxiolytic, analgesic, and anticonvulsant properties.

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of oral pregabalin on anxiolysis and attenuation of stress response to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation.

Study Design

This was a prospective randomized double-blind placebo controlled study.

Materials and Methods

A total of 60 patients ASA physical status Class I and II, undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy, were randomly allocated into two groups receiving either oral placebo or oral pregabalin 150 mg, 60 min before induction of anesthesia. Visual analog scale (VAS) for anxiety was recorded before, and 60 min after giving the drug. Hemodynamic parameters (heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure) were recorded before, and 60 min after giving drug, during and 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 min after intubation.

Results

During preinduction, pregabalin showed a decrease in VAS and attenuation of stress response to laryngoscopy and intubation compared to that of placebo. The premedicated patients were hemodynamically stable perioperatively without side effects.

Conclusion

Pregabalin is effective in attenuating preoperative anxiety and stress response to endotracheal intubation.

Risk Factors for Open Conversion in Minimally Invasive Cholecystectomy

Background and Objectives:

Open conversion (OC) occurs in 5 to 10% of laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LCs) and results in suboptimal outcomes. Herein, we report our experience with OC in cholecystectomy performed with the minimally invasive (MIS) approach.

Methods:

Data from 960 minimally invasive cholecystectomies performed in the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Division of General, Minimally Invasive, and Robotic Surgery were retrospectively compiled. Patient demographics and outcomes were analyzed for the major indicators that may predispose to OC.

Results:

Male gender and intraoperative diagnosis of acute or gangrenous cholecystitis were identified as statistically significant individual predictors for OC. Conversion incidence was significantly lower in every paired demographic combination when compared with the laparoscopic data.

Conclusions:

Our retrospective study identified some specific factors associated with significantly higher risk of OC in both laparoscopic and robotic cholecystectomy. The impact of these risk factors seems to be lesser in the robotic than in the laparoscopic approach. Further investigation is necessary to validate these findings.

Open Cholecystectomy Has a Place in the Laparoscopic Era: a Retrospective Cohort Study

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is considered the gold standard for treatment of symptomatic gallbladder stones and has replaced the traditional open cholecystectomy (OC). The aim of this study is to evaluate the proper indications of the primary OC and conversion from LC and their predictive factors. This study includes all patients who underwent cholecystectomy between January 2011 and June 2016, whether open from the start (group A), conversion from laparoscopic approach (group B), or laparoscopic cholecystectomy (group C). There were 3269 patients underwent cholecystectomy. LC was completed in 3117 (95.4%) patients. The overall conversion rate was 83 (2.5%). The main two causes of conversion were adhesion in 35 (42.2%) patients and unclear anatomy in 29 (34.9%) patients. Primary OC was indicated in 69 (2.1%) patients due to previous history of upper abdominal operations in 16 (23.2%) patients and anesthetic problem in 21 (30.4%) patients. Age >60 years, male sex, diabetic patients, history of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, dilated common bile duct, gallbladder status, adhesion, and previous upper abdominal operation were demonstrated to be independent risk factors for OC. Open cholecystectomy still has a place in the era of laparoscopy. Conversion should not be a complication, but it represents a valuable choice to avoid an additional risk. Safe OC required training because of the causes of conversion, usually unsafe anatomy, occurrence of complications, or anesthetic problems, in order to prevent disastrous complications.

Impact of Comorbidity and Prescription Drugs on Haemorrhage in Cholecystectomy

Background

The purpose of the present study was to analyse the impact of patient-related risk factors and medication drugs on haemorrhagic complications following cholecystectomy.

Methods

All cholecystectomies registered in the Swedish population-based Register for Gallstone Surgery and ERCP (GallRiks) were identified. Risk factors for bleeding were assessed by linking data in the GallRiks to the National Patient Register and the Prescribed Drug Register, respectively. The risk of haemorrhage leading to intervention was determined by variable regression, and Kaplan–Meier analysis assessed survival rate following perioperative haemorrhage.

Results

A total of 94,557 patients were included between 2005 and 2015, of which 799 (0.8%) and 1192 (1.3%) patients were registered as having perioperative and post-operative haemorrhage, respectively. In multivariable analysis, an increased risk of haemorrhagic complications was seen in patients with cerebrovascular disease (p = 0.001), previous myocardial infarction (p = 0.001), kidney disease (p = 0.001), heart failure (p = 0.001), diabetes (p = 0.001), peripheral vascular disease (p = 0.004), and obesity (p = 0.005). Prescription of tricyclic antidepressant (p = 0.018) or dipyridamole (p = 0.047) was associated with a significantly increased risk of perioperative haemorrhage. However, this increase in risk did not remain significant following Bonferroni correction for mass significance. Perioperative haemorrhage increased the risk of death occurring within the first post-operative year [Hazard Ratio, (HR) 4.9, CI 3.52–6.93] as well as bile duct injury (OR 2.45, CI 1.79–3.37).

Conclusion

The increased risk of haemorrhage associated with comorbidity must be taken into account when assessing patients prior to cholecystectomy. Perioperative bleeding increases post-operative mortality and is associated with an increased risk of bile duct injury.

Physiopathology and clinical considerations of laparoscopic surgery in the elderly

OBJECTIVE

The marked improvements in medical technology and healthcare, lead an increasing number of elderly patients to take advantage of even complex surgical. Recently, laparoscopic surgery has been accepted as a minimally invasive treatment to reduce the morbidity after conventional surgery, and a number of studies have demonstrated the feasibility of laparoscopy with significant advantages also in the elderly. On the other side, the laparoscopic procedure has some drawbacks, including prolonged operation time and impact of carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum on circulatory and respiratory dynamics. This paper will review the physiopathological implications of laparoscopy, as well as the current literature concerning the most common laparoscopic procedures that are increasingly performed in elderly patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review of the current literature was performed using the search engines EMBASE and PubMed to identify all studies reporting the physiopathological implications of laparoscopy in the elderly. The MeSH search terms used were "laparoscopy in the elderly", "physiopathology of laparoscopy", and "pneumoperitoneum". Multiple combinations of the keywords and MeSH terms were used with particular reference to elderly patients.

RESULTS

Although laparoscopy is minimally invasive in its dissection techniques, the increased physiologic demands present particular challenges among elderly patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopy and its safety in the elderly patients remains a challenge and the evaluation of this approach is therefore mandatory. Although many studies have demonstrated the applicability and advantages of the laparoscopy also in the geriatric population, with low rates of morbidity and mortality, in elderly patients undergoing general surgical procedures the physiologic demands of laparoscopy should be carefully considered.

Influencing factors on postoperative hospital stay after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUNDS/AIMS

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can reduce postoperative pain and recovery time. However, some patients experience prolonged postoperative hospital stay. We aimed to identify factors influencing the postoperative hospital stay after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

METHODS

Patients (n=336) undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallbladder pathology at 8 hospitals were enrolled and divided into 2 groups: 2 or less and more than 2 days postoperative stay. Perioperative factors and patient factors were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The patient population median age was 52 years, and consisted of 32 emergency and 304 elective operations. A univariate analysis of perioperative factors revealed significant differences in operation time (p<0.001), perioperative transfusion (p=0.006), emergency operation (p<0.001), acute inflammation (p<0.001), and surgical site infection (p=0.041). A univariate analysis of patient factors revealed significant differences in age (p<0.001), gender (p=0.036), diabetes mellitus (p=0.011), preoperative albumin level (p=0.024), smoking (p=0.010), and American Society of Anesthesiologists score (p=0.003). In a multivariate analysis, operation time (p<0.001), emergency operation (p<0.001), age (p=0.014), and smoking (p=0.022) were identified as independent factors influencing length of postoperative hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Operation time, emergency operation, patient age, and smoking influenced the postoperative hospital stay and should be the focus of efforts to reduce hospital stay after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

The role of prophylactic antibiotics on surgical site infection in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Backgrounds/Aims

Although laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a common and widely accepted technique, the use of prophylactic antibiotics in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy still remains controversial. The aim of this study is to determine whether prophylactic antibiotics could prevent surgical site infection after elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy and to identify any risk factors for surgical site infection.

Methods

This study included 471 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy between January 2009 and May 2012. Period 1 patients (279) received second generation cephalosporin 1 g intravenously after induction of anesthesia, and Period 2 patients (192) were not given prophylactic antibiotics. The characteristics and surgical site infections of the patients were compared and analyzed.

Results

The overall rate of surgical site infection was 1.69% for the total of 471 patients. The incidence of surgical site infection was similar for the two Periods: 5 of 279 patients (1.79%) in Period 1, 3 of 192 patients (1.56%) in Period 2 (p=0.973). All of the patients with surgical site infections were well treated under conservative treatments without any sequelae. The preoperative albumin level (p=0.023) contributed to surgical site infection.

Conclusions

Prophylactic antibiotics are not necessary for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy but patients in poor nutritional state with low albumin level should consider prophylactic antibiotics.

Open versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy in acute cholecystitis. Systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become a popular alternative to open cholecystectomy (OC) in the treatment of acute cholecystitis (AC). Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is now considered the gold standard of therapy for symptomatic cholelithiasis and chronic cholecystitis. However no definitive data on its use in AC has been published. CIAO and CIAOW studies demonstrated 48.7% of AC were still operated with the open technique. The aim of the present meta-analysis is to compare OC and LC in AC.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systematic-review with meta-analysis and meta-regression of trials comparing open vs. laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with AC was performed. Electronic searches were performed using Medline, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CCTR), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and CINAHL.

RESULTS

Ten trials have been included with a total of 1248 patients: 677 in the LC and 697 into the OC groups. The post-operative morbidity rate was half with LC (OR = 0.46). The post-operative wound infection and pneumonia rates were reduced by LC (OR 0.54 and 0.51 respectively). The post-operative mortality rate was reduced by LC (OR = 0.2). The mean postoperative hospital stay was significantly shortened in the LC group (MD = -4.74 days). There were no significant differences in the bile leakage rate, intraoperative blood loss and operative times.

CONCLUSIONS

In acute cholecystitis, post-operative morbidity, mortality and hospital stay were reduced by laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Moreover pneumonia and wound infection rate were reduced by LC. Severe hemorrhage and bile leakage rates were not influenced by the technique. Cholecystectomy in acute cholecystitis should be attempted laparoscopically first.

Mortality after a cholecystectomy: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

The trade-off between the benefits of surgery for gallstone disease for a large population and the risk of lethal outcome in a small minority requires knowledge of the overall mortality.

METHODS

Between 2007 and 2010, 47 912 cholecystectomies for gallstone disease were registered in the Swedish Register for Cholecystectomy and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) (GallRiks). By linkage to the Swedish Death Register, the 30-day mortality after surgery was determined. The age- and sex-standardized mortality ratio (SMR) was estimated by dividing the observed mortality with the expected mortality rate in the Swedish general population 2007. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was estimated by International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes retrieved from the National Patient Register.

RESULTS

Within 30 days after surgery, 72 (0.15%) patients died. The 30-day mortality was close [SMR = 2.58; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.02-3.25] to that of the Swedish general population. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, predictors of 30-day mortality were age >70 years [odds ratio (OR) 7.04, CI: 2.23-22.26], CCI > 2 (OR 1.93, CI: 1.06-3.51), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) > 2 (OR 13.28, CI: 4.64-38.02), acute surgery (OR 10.05, CI:2.41-41.95), open surgical approach (OR 2.20, CI: 1.55-4.69) and peri-operative complications (OR 3.27, CI: 1.74-6.15).

DISCUSSION

Mortality after cholecystectomy is low. Co-morbidity and peri-operative complications may, however, increase mortality substantially. The increased mortality risk associated with open cholecystectomy could be explained by confounding factors influencing the decision to perform open surgery.

Effect of institutional volume on laparoscopic cholecystectomy outcomes: Systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM: To determine whether institutional laparoscopy cholecystectomy (LC) volume affects rates of mortality, conversion to open surgery, bile leakage and bile duct injury (BDI).

METHODS: Eligible studies were prospective or retrospective cohort studies that provided data on outcomes from consecutive LC procedures in single institutions. Relevant outcomes were mortality, conversion to open surgery, bile leakage and BDI. We performed a Medline search and extracted data. A regression analysis using generalized estimating equations were used to determine the influence of annual institutional LC caseload on outcomes. A sensitivity analysis was performed including only those studies that were published after 1995.

RESULTS: Seventy-three cohorts (127404 LC procedures) were included. Average complication rates were 0.06% for mortality, 3.23% for conversion, 0.44% for bile leakage and 0.28% for bile duct injury. Annual institutional caseload did not influence rates of mortality (P = 0.142), bile leakage (P = 0.111) or bile duct injury (P = 0.198) although increasing caseload was associated with reduced incidence of conversion (P = 0.019). Results from the sensitivity analyses were similar.

CONCLUSION: Institutional volume is a determinant of LC complications. It is unclear whether volume is directly linked to complication rates or whether it is an index for protocolised care.

Nationwide linkage analysis in Scotland-Has mortality following hospital admission for Crohn's disease changed in the early 21st century?

BACKGROUND

National Scottish data were used to compare 3-year mortality in patients hospitalized for Crohn's disease (CD) between 1998-2000 and 2007-2009.

METHODS

The linked Scottish Morbidity Records database was used to identify patients admitted with CD during two periods: Period 1 (1998-2000) and Period 2 (2007-2009). 3-year mortality and standardized mortality ratio (SMR) were determined and multivariable logistic regression analysis of associated factors was performed. Mortality was determined following four admission types: surgery-elective, surgery-emergency, medical-elective and medical-emergency. 3-year mortality was compared between study periods using age-standardized rates.

RESULTS

The number of patients per 100,000 population hospitalized with CD per year was unchanged (15.7 [Period 1]; 14.4 [Period 2]). Overall crude and adjusted 3-year mortality rates were also unchanged (crude mortality 9.0%-9.1%, adjusted mortality odds ratio [OR]=0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65-1.17; p=0.36). The adjusted 3-year mortality increased following elective surgery (Period 1: 1/303 [0.3%]; Period 2: 9/261 [3.4%]); OR=13.5 [CI 1.66-109.99]) and decreased following emergency medical admission (Period 1: 99/779 [12.7%]; Period 2:86/802 [10.7%]; OR=0.68 [CI 0.47-0.97]). Directly age-standardized mortality rates were similar (Period 1:338/10,000 person years [CI 282-394]; Period 2:333/10,000 person years [CI 276-390], p=0.2). On multivariable regression, age, deprivation status, comorbidity and the length of hospital stay were associated with mortality in both periods. High 3-year mortality was observed during both periods in patients between 50 and 64years (Period 1: 33/298 [11.1%, SMR=4.8 [CI 3.44-6.63], Period 2: 33/296 [11.1%, SMR=5.9 [4.14-8.22]) and over 65years(Period 1: 94/275 [34.2%, SMR=2.78 [CI 2.42-3.62], Period 2: 78/251 [31.1%, SMR=3.31 [2.64-4.11]).

CONCLUSION

Nationwide linkage data demonstrate that overall 3-year mortality after hospitalization for CD is high, especially in patients over 50years, and has not altered between the time periods 1998-2000 and 2007-2009.

Comparison of mortality following hospitalisation for ulcerative colitis in Scotland between 1998-2000 and 2007-2009

BACKGROUND

Scottish nationwide linkage data from 1998 to 2000 demonstrated high 3-year mortality in patients hospitalised with ulcerative colitis (UC).

AIM

To compare 3-year mortality, and factors related to mortality, in Scottish patients hospitalised with UC between 1998-2000 and 2007-2009.

METHODS

The Scottish Morbidity Records and linked datasets were used to assess 3-year mortality, standardised mortality ratio (SMR) and multivariate analyses of factors associated with 3-year mortality. The 3-year mortality was determined after four admission types: surgery-elective or emergency; medical-elective or emergency. Age-standardised mortality rates (ASR) were used to compare mortality rates between periods.

RESULTS

Ulcerative colitis admissions increased from 10.6 in Period 1 to 11.6 per 100 000 population per year in Period 2 (P = 0.046). Crude and adjusted 3-year mortality fell between time periods (crude 12.2% to 8.3%; adjusted OR 0.59, CI 0.42-0.81, P = 0.04). Adjusted 3-year mortality following emergency medical admission (OR 0.58, CI 0.39-0.87, P = 0.003) and in patients >65 years (38.8% to 28.7%, P = 0.02) was lower in Period 2. The SMR in period 1 was 3.04 and 2.96 in Period 2. Directly age-standardised mortality decreased from 373 (CI 309-437) to 264 (CI 212-316) per 10 000 person-years. On multivariate analysis, increasing age (50-64 years OR 7.11 (CI 2.77-18.27, P < 0.05); 65-74 years OR 14.70 (CI 5.65-38.25 P < 0.05); >75 years OR 46.42 (CI 18.29-117.78, P < 0.001) and co-morbidity (OR 3.02, CI 1.72-5.28, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with 3-year mortality in Period 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparisons of crude and adjusted mortality rates suggest significant improvement in outcome over the last decade - however, mortality remains high, and older age and co-morbidity are important predictors of outcome.

Respiratory function during anesthesia: effects on gas exchange

Anaesthesia causes a respiratory impairment, whether the patient is breathing spontaneously or is ventilated mechanically. This impairment impedes the matching of alveolar ventilation and perfusion and thus the oxygenation of arterial blood. A triggering factor is loss of muscle tone that causes a fall in the resting lung volume, functional residual capacity. This fall promotes airway closure and gas adsorption, leading eventually to alveolar collapse, that is, atelectasis. The higher the oxygen concentration, the faster will the gas be adsorbed and the aleveoli collapse. Preoxygenation is a major cause of atelectasis and continuing use of high oxygen concentration maintains or increases the lung collapse, that typically is 10% or more of the lung tissue. It can exceed 25% to 40%. Perfusion of the atelectasis causes shunt and cyclic airway closure causes regions with low ventilation/perfusion ratios, that add to impaired oxygenation. Ventilation with positive end-expiratory pressure reduces the atelectasis but oxygenation need not improve, because of shift of blood flow down the lung to any remaining atelectatic tissue. Inflation of the lung to an airway pressure of 40 cmH2O recruits almost all collapsed lung and the lung remains open if ventilation is with moderate oxygen concentration (< 40%) but recollapses within a few minutes if ventilation is with 100% oxygen. Severe obesity increases the lung collapse and obstructive lung disease and one-lung anesthesia increase the mismatch of ventilation and perfusion. CO2 pneumoperitoneum increases atelectasis formation but not shunt, likely explained by enhanced hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction by CO2. Atelectasis may persist in the postoperative period and contribute to pneumonia.

Epidemiological aspects of biliary tree tumors in a region of northern Italy: emerging trends and sex-based differences

BACKGROUND

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and gallbladder cancer are the second cause of liver malignancy after hepatocellular carcinoma. Epidemiological data point to an increase in the incidence of CCA in both western and eastern countries; however, data on more recent years are lacking.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to elucidate the more recent epidemiology of CCA and gallbladder carcinoma in north-east Italy using automatically collected regional data on hospital admissions over a 10-year period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the Veneto region (north-east Italy) database of patients' hospital discharge records, identifying cases with the following codes: intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (155.1), primary gallbladder cancer (156.0), and primary extrahepatic biliary tract cancer (156.1). Hospitalizations were recorded according to the surgical or medical procedures involved (based on International Classification of Diseases-9 procedure codes), and only the first hospitalization was considered for the 2005-2009 period.

RESULTS

The number of hospitalizations for biliary tumors as a whole has remained stable over the past 10 years. The hospitalization rate of intrahepatic CCA is increasing; this cancer is more frequent in males than in females. The hospitalization rate for gallbladder cancer is increasing with age. However, the figures for extrahepatic CCA have remained stable over the past 10 years. The duration of survival was significantly longer for patients who underwent radical surgery than for those who did not.

CONCLUSION

Efforts are needed to prevent CCA, bearing in mind the emerging conditions associated with its onset. Secondary prevention of these tumors will substantially improve the duration of survival.

Natural history of acalculous biliary symptoms

INTRODUCTION

The radiological criteria for the diagnosis of gallbladder disease rely largely on the detection of calculi using ultrasonography. Patients may, however, suffer symptoms typical of biliary pain without detectable gallstones. The aim of this study was to identify a cohort of patients presenting with recurrent episodes of biliary symptoms in the absence of identifiable pathology on ultrasonography and to record the outcome of subsequent imaging investigations.

METHODS

Records of patients having abdominal ultrasonography during a four-month period in 2006 were accessed retrospectively and those with symptoms suggesting biliary disease were identified. Radiology records were reviewed over a five-year follow-up period to identify patients undergoing further imaging for recurrent biliary symptoms and outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 512 patients had ultrasonography for investigation of symptoms consistent with biliary disease. Almost half (41.2%) of these were found to have gallbladder pathology on ultrasonography and 4.7% of patients went on to have further investigations for similar symptoms without achieving a diagnosis. The median age of this group was 47 years and 75% of these patients were female. During the follow-up period, 2.6% of patients with biliary symptoms and initially normal ultrasonography developed gallstones and in 1.3% pancreatitis was demonstrated on imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

A small minority of patients who present with biliary symptoms and have no abnormality on ultrasonography present with recurrent symptoms or develop significant biliary pathology. These patients should be identified by interview at routine follow-up visits and further investigations should be considered.

Understanding of regional variation in the use of surgery

The use of common surgical procedures varies widely across regions. Differences in illness burden, diagnostic practices, and patient attitudes about medical intervention explain only a small degree of regional variation in surgery rates. Evidence suggests that surgical variation results mainly from differences in physician beliefs about the indications for surgery, and the extent to which patient preferences are incorporated into treatment decisions. These two components of clinical decision making help to explain the so-called surgical signatures of specific procedures, and why some consistently vary more than others. Variation in clinical decision making is, in turn, affected by broad environmental factors, including technology diffusion, supply of specialists, local training frameworks, financial incentives, and regulatory factors, which vary across countries. Better scientific evidence about the comparative effectiveness of surgical and non-surgical interventions could help to mitigate regional variation, but broader dissemination of shared decision aids will be essential to reduce variation in preference-sensitive disorders.

Treatment of common bile duct stones in Sweden 1989-2006: an observational nationwide study of a paradigm shift

BACKGROUND

The preferred strategies for treatment of common bile duct stones have changed from choledochotomy with cholecystectomy to sphincterotomy with or without cholecystectomy. The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of these treatment strategies on a nationwide level in Sweden.

METHODS

All patients with hospital care for benign biliary diagnoses 1988-2006 were identified in Swedish registers. Patients with common bile duct stones and a first admission with choledochotomy and or endoscopic sphincterotomy from 1989 through 2006 comprised the study group. These patients were analyzed with respect to readmission for biliary diagnoses and acute pancreatitis.

RESULTS

Incidence of open and laparoscopic choledochotomy decreased from 19.4 to 5.2, whereas endoscopic sphincterotomy increased from 5.1 to 26.1 per 100,000 inhabitants per year, respectively. Among patients treated for common bile duct stones (n = 26,815), 60.0 % underwent cholecystectomy during the first hospital admission in 1989-1994, compared to 30.1 % in 2001-2006. The treatment strategy that included endoscopic sphincterotomy was associated with more readmissions for biliary diagnoses and increased risk for acute pancreatitis than the treatment strategy with choledochotomy. However, patients treated with endoscopic sphincterotomy and concurrent cholecystectomy at the index admission had the lowest risk of readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

Cholecystectomy has been increasingly separated from treatment of bile duct stones, and endoscopic sphincterotomy has superseded choledochotomy as a first alternative for bile duct clearance in Sweden. In patients fit for surgery, clearance of the common bile duct can be combined with cholecystectomy, as it probably reduces the need for biliary related readmissions.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of cholecystectomy during Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity

BACKGROUND

Controversy exists regarding the use of concurrent cholecystectomy during Roux-en-Y gastric bypass performed for morbid obesity.

METHODS

A decision model was developed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of current strategies: routine concurrent cholecystectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass alone with or without postoperative ursodiol therapy, and selective cholecystectomy based on preoperative findings on ultrasonography. Probabilities were obtained from a comprehensive literature review. Costs and hospital days were obtained from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Inpatient Sample. One-way sensitivity analyses were performed.

RESULTS

The least expensive strategy was to perform RYGB alone without preoperative ultrasonography, with an average cost (over RYGB costs) of $537 per patient. RYGB with concurrent cholecystectomy had a cost of $631. Selective cholecystectomy based on preoperative ultrasonography was dominated by the other 2 strategies. Our model was most sensitive to the probability of developing gallbladder-related symptoms after RYGB alone. When the incidence of gallbladder-related symptoms was <4.6%, the dominant strategy was to perform a RYGB alone without preoperative ultrasonography. For values >6.9%, performing concurrent cholecystectomy at the time of the RYGB was superior to other strategies. When ursodiol was used, the least expensive strategy was to perform a concurrent cholecystectomy during RYGB.

CONCLUSION

The main factor determining the most cost-effective strategy is the incidence of gallbladder-related symptoms after RYGB. The use of ursodiol was associated with an increase in cost that does not justify its use after RYGB. Finally, selective cholecystectomy based on preoperative ultrasonography was dominated by the other strategies in the scenarios evaluated.

Nationwide linkage analysis in Scotland to assess mortality following hospital admission for Crohn's disease: 1998-2000

BACKGROUND

Although population-based studies of patients with Crohn's disease (CD) suggest only a modestly increased mortality, recent data have raised concerns regarding the outcome of CD patients requiring hospitalisation.

AIM

To determine the mortality and contributory factors in 1595 patients hospitalised for CD in Scotland between 1998 and 2000.

METHODS

The Scottish Morbidity Records database and linked datasets were used to assess longitudinal patient outcome, and to explore associations between 3-year mortality and age, sex, comorbidity, admission type and social deprivation. The standardised mortality ratio (SMR) at 3 years from admission was calculated with reference to the Scottish population.

RESULTS

The SMR was 3.31 (95% confidence interval 2.80-3.89). This was increased in all patients, other than those <30 years at presentation, and was highest in patients aged 50-64 years (SMR 4.84 [3.44-6.63]). On multivariate analysis, age >50, admission type, comorbidity, social deprivation and length of admission were significantly associated with mortality. Other than age, admission type was the strongest factor predictive of death. Three-year crude mortality was 0.3% for elective surgical, 8.7% for emergency surgical, 8.3% for elective nonsurgical and 12.7% for emergency nonsurgical admission (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrates high mortality rates in patients hospitalised during 1998-2000 for CD, especially in patients over 50. Elective surgery is associated with lower mortality than emergency surgery or medical therapy. Further study is needed to determine whether these patterns have changed following the introduction of biological treatment.

ERCP and endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES): a safe and definitive management of gallstone pancreatitis with the gallbladder left in situ

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

UK guidelines recommend that patients with gallstone pancreatitis have cholecystectomy within 2 weeks of their pancreatitis. A proportion of these are elderly with significant comorbidities rendering them high risk for general anaesthesia and surgery. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) may offer a safe alternative to cholecystectomy as definitive treatment in these patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of all cases of gallstone pancreatitis presenting between 1999 and 2009 was undertaken.

RESULTS

One hundred one patients underwent ERCP and ES as a definitive treatment for gallstone pancreatitis with a median age of 78 years (range, 43-96 years) and a median American Society of Anesthesiologists grade of 2. Three patients died from pancreatitis despite successful ERCP. Eighty-nine patients were successfully treated with an ERCP alone, and 84 patients (94%) had no recurrence of pancreatitis with a mean follow-up of 41 months (±32 months, range 4-118 months). The total patient follow-up was 3,260 months. Twenty-seven patients (33%) died within the follow-up period of unrelated causes, explaining the lower than expected median follow-up. Five patients had a recurrence of pancreatitis during follow-up (6%).

CONCLUSION

ERCP with ES is a safe alternative to laparoscopic cholecystectomy to prevent further attacks of gallstone pancreatitis in high-risk surgical patients and the elderly.

Causes of short-term mortality after appendectomy: a population-based case-controlled study

OBJECTIVE

This case control study is a detailed analysis of the causes of death and the risk factors of short-term mortality after appendectomy.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Although death is a rare event after appendectomy, we found a 7-fold excess mortality after appendectomy overall and a 9-fold excess mortality after negative appendectomy, compared to the background population in a previous study from Sweden, in accordance with others.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients who died within 30 days after appendectomy, and controls matched to age, sex and period, were identified of 119,060 patients who were operated with appendectomy in 1987 to 1996 from the Swedish National Inpatient Registry. Causes of death and differences between the cases and controls in comorbidity and appendectomy diagnoses were analyzed on the basis of a review of hospital records. Only patients and controls with appendectomy as the only surgical intervention and without prevalent malignant diagnosis were included in the analysis to avoid bias.

RESULTS

A total of 179 patients who died within 30 days and 400 matched controls remained for the analyses. Nonproductive and negative exploration was strongly associated with mortality [odds ratio (OR), 5.11; confidence interval (CI), 2.09-12.48; P < 0.001 and OR, 2.38; CI, 1.24-4.57; P = 0.009, respectively] in contrast to perforated appendicitis (OR, 1.60; CI, 0.95-2.70; P = 0.078) after adjustment for age, sex, and comorbidity. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR, 3.31; CI, 1.05-10.45, P = 0.041), renal insufficiency (OR, 2.32; CI, 1.26-4.27; P = 0.007), and diabetes mellitus were also independent risk factors (OR, 2.39; CI, 1.12-5.12; P = 0.025). Cardiovascular or thromboembolic disease was responsible for the death in more than 50% of the cases, whereas appendicitis was responsible in only 17.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Appendicitis is only responsible for a small portion of the deaths after appendectomy. Comorbidity and negative appendectomy are strongly associated with mortality, suggesting that comorbidity, diagnostic failure, and the anesthesiosurgical trauma may play an important role.

Mortality associated with the treatment of gallstone disease: a 10-year contemporary national experience

BACKGROUND

Gallstones remain a common clinical problem requiring skilled operative and nonoperative management. The aim of the present population-based study was to investigate causes of gallstone-related mortality in Scotland.

METHODS

Surgical deaths were peer reviewed between 1997 and 2006 through the Scottish Audit of Surgical Mortality (SASM); data were analyzed for patients in whom the principal diagnosis on admission was gallstone disease.

RESULTS

Gallstone disease was responsible for 790/43,271 (1.83%) of the surgical deaths recorded, with an overall mortality for cholecystectomy of 0.307% (176/57,352), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) of 0.313% (117/37,345), and cholecystostomy of 2.1% (12/578) across the decade. However, the majority of patients who died were elderly (47.6% ≥ 80 years or older) and were managed conservatively. Deaths following cholecystectomy usually followed emergency admission (76%) and were more likely to have been associated with postoperative medical complications (n = 189) than surgical complications (n = 36).

DISCUSSION

Although cholecystectomy is a relatively safe procedure, patients who die as a result of gallstone disease tend to be elderly, to have been admitted as emergency cases, and to have had co-morbidities. Future combined medical and surgical perioperative management may reduce the mortality rate associated with gallstones.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy conversion rates two decades later

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Now nearly 2 decades into the laparoscopic era, nationwide laparoscopic cholecystectomy conversion rates remain around 5% to 10%. We analyzed patient- and surgeon-specific factors that may impact the decision to convert to open.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 2205 LCs performed at a large tertiary community hospital over a 52 month period (May 2004 through October 2008).

RESULTS

The overall conversion rate was 4.9%. The most common reason for conversion was adhesions, and the majority of these patients had prior abdominal surgery. Males and patients >50 years old had a significantly higher likelihood of open conversion. The conversion rate of high-volume surgeons (≥100 total cases) in comparison to low-volume surgeons (40 to 99 total cases) was significantly lower. Conversion rates were lower among surgeons with fellowship training and those who completed residency training after 1990. Interestingly, the percentage of conversions due to technical difficulty was lower among those with fellowship training but higher among those who completed training after 1990.

CONCLUSION

Conversion occurred in ∼5% of all laparoscopic cholecystectomies. Males, patients >50 years old, and cases performed by low-volume surgeons had a higher likelihood of conversion. Other surgeon-specific factors did not have a significant impact on conversion rate.

A current profile and assessment of north american cholecystectomy: results from the american college of surgeons national surgical quality improvement program

BACKGROUND

Cholecystectomy is among the most common surgical procedures performed in the United States. The current state of cholecystectomy outcomes, including variations in hospital performance, is unclear. The objective of this study is to compare the risk factors, indications, and 30-day outcomes, as well as variations in hospital performance associated with laparoscopic (LC) versus open cholecystectomy (OC) at 221 hospitals during a 4-year period.

STUDY DESIGN

Using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) database (2005-2008), patients were identified who underwent cholecystectomy and related procedures (cholangiogram and/or common bile duct exploration). Four outcomes were studied, ie, 30-day overall morbidity, serious morbidity, surgical site infections, and mortality. Forward stepwise logistic regressions yielded patient-level predicted probabilities, and hospital-level observed-to-expected ratios were determined.

RESULTS

Of 65,511 patients, 58,659 (89.5%) underwent LC; 6,852 (10.5%) underwent OC. OC patients were considerably older with a higher comorbidity burden. LC patients were less likely to experience any morbidity (3.1% versus 17.8%; p < 0.0001), a serious morbidity (1.4% versus 11.1%; p < 0.0001), or a surgical site infection (1.3% versus 8.4%; p < 0.0001), and less likely to die (0.3% versus 2.8%; p < 0.0001). Observed-to-expected ratios for overall morbidity ranged from 0 to 3.55; for serious morbidity, 0 to 3.23; for surgical site infection, 0 to 7.02; for mortality, 0 to 13.05.

CONCLUSIONS

Although overall incidence of adverse events is low after LC, substantial morbidity and mortality are associated with OC. Additionally, controlling for patient- and operation-related factors, considerable variations exist in hospital performance when evaluating 30-day outcomes after cholecystectomy.

Surgeon volume metrics in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

AIM

Numerous reports in the 1990s pointed to a learning curve for laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), critical in achieving excellent outcomes. As LC is now standard therapy for acute cholecystitis (AC), we aimed to determine if surgeon volume is still vital to patient outcomes.

METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample was used to query 80,149 emergent/urgent cholecystectomies performed for AC from 1999 to 2005 in 12 states with available surgeon/hospital identifiers. Volume groups were determined based on thirds of number of cholecystectomies performed per year for AC; two groups were created [low volume (LV): <or=15/year; high volume (HV): >15/year]. Primary endpoints were the rate of open conversion, bile duct injury (BDI), in-hospital mortality, and prolonged length of stay (LOS). Propensity scores were used to create a matched cohort analysis. Logistic regression models were created to further assess the effect of surgeon volume on primary endpoints.

RESULTS

The number of cases performed by HV surgeons increased from 24% to 44% from 1999 to 2005. HV surgeons were more likely to perform LC, had fewer conversions, lower incidence of prolonged LOS, lower BDI, and lower in-hospital mortality. After matching the volume cohorts to create a case-controlled analysis, multivariate analysis confirmed that surgeon volume was an independent predictor of open conversion and prolonged LOS but not BDI and in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing surgical volume remains associated with improved outcomes after surgery during emergent/urgent admission for AC with fewer open conversions and prolonged LOS. Our results suggest that referral to HV surgeons has improved outcomes after LC for AC.

Nationwide linkage analysis in Scotland implicates age as the critical overall determinant of mortality in ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Recent data associated higher mortality with medical rather than surgical intervention in patients with ulcerative colitis who require hospitalization.

AIM

To examine factors influencing UC-related mortality in Scotland.

METHOD

Using the national record linkage database 1998-2000, 3-year mortality was determined after four admission types: colectomy-elective or emergency; no colectomy-elective or emergency.

RESULTS

Of 1078 patients, crude 3-year mortality rates were: colectomy elective 5.6% (n = 177) and emergency 9.0% (100); no colectomy elective 9.8% (244) and emergency 16.0% (557). Using elective colectomy as reference, multivariate analysis [OR (95% CI)] showed that admission age >50 years [OR 5.46 (2.29-11.95)], male gender [OR 1.92 (1.23-3.02)], comorbidity [OR 2.2 (1.38-3.51)], length of stay >15 days [OR 2.04 (1.08-3.84)] and prior IBD admission [OR 1.66 (1.06-2.61)] were independently related to mortality. Age was the strongest determinant. No patient <30 years died. Mortality of patients aged <50 years [10/587 (1.7%)] was significantly lower than mortality of those aged 50-64 years [26/246 (10.6%)] (chi(2) = 32.91; P < 0.0000001) and >65 [96/245 (39.2%)] (chi(2) = 218.2; P < 0.0000001). For those patients aged more than 65 years, mortality in the four groups was 29.4%, 33.3%, 28.1% and 44.7%- all greater than expected in the Scottish population on assessment of standardized mortality ratios.

CONCLUSION

Hospital admission in UC patients >65 is associated with high mortality. Management strategies should consider this by treatment in specialist units, early investigation, focused medical treatment and earlier surgical referral.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in elderly patients

Laparoscopic surgery can be safely applied in the elderly. Complications can be minimized by carefully selecting patients aged 80 years or older and operating on these patients with experienced teams with good technical capabilities.

Background and Objective:

In this study, we investigated whether laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a minimally invasive procedure, is advantageous in elderly patients.

Methods:

Data from 595 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy between January 2003 and December 2007 were prospectively collected in a database. The patients were separated into 2 groups; patients >70 years of age (group A), and patients <70 years of age (group B). Group A was further divided into 3 subgroups, ages 70 to 74, 75 to 79, and 80 and above. Comparison between the groups was made with Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests where appropriate.

Results:

ASA scores increased in conjunction with increased age (P<0.001). Of patients with an operative time longer than one hour, 26 patients aged 70 or older, and 152 patients aged 69 or younger had no difference with respect to PaCO₂ and pH measurements (P>0.05). In patients aged 80 or older, the rates of acute cholecystitis, conversion to open surgery, and postoperative complications were significantly higher than in other groups (P>0.05).

Conclusion:

We believe that in elderly patients, laparoscopic surgery can be applied safely without further increasing the surgical risks. The complications can be minimized by carefully selecting the patients aged 80 or older and by experienced teams with high technical capabilities operating on such patients.

Advancing neurosurgery with image-guided robotics

Robotic systems are being introduced into surgery to extend human ability. NeuroArm represents a potential change in the way surgery is performed; this is the first image-guided, MR-compatible surgical robot capable of both microsurgery and stereotaxy. This paper presents the first surgical application of neuroArm in an investigation of microsurgical performance, navigation accuracy, and Phase I clinical studies. To evaluate microsurgical performance, 2 surgeons performed microsurgery (splenectomy, bilateral nephrectomy, and thymectomy) in a rodent model using neuroArm and conventional techniques. Two senior residents served as controls, using the conventional technique only (8 rats were used in each of the 3 treatment groups; the 2 surgeons each treated 4 rats from each group). Total surgery time, blood loss, thermal injury, vascular injury, and animal death due to surgical error were recorded and converted to an overall performance score. All values are reported as the mean +/- SEM when normally distributed and as the median and interquartile range when not. Surgeons were slower using neuroArm (1047 +/- 69 seconds) than with conventional microsurgical techniques (814 +/- 54 seconds; p = 0.019), but overall performance was equal (neuroArm: 1110 +/- 82 seconds; microsurgery: 1075 +/- 136 seconds; p = 0.825). Using microsurgery, the surgeons had overall performance scores equal to those of the control resident surgeons (p = 0.141). To evaluate navigation accuracy, the localization error of neuroArm was compared with an established system. Nanoparticles were implanted at predetermined bilateral targets in a cadaveric model (4 specimens) using image guidance. The mean localization error of neuroArm (4.35 +/- 1.68 mm) proved equal to that of the conventional navigation system (10.4 +/- 2.79 mm; p = 0.104). Using the conventional system, the surgeon was forced to retract the biopsy tool to correct the angle of entry in 2 of 4 trials. To evaluate Phase I clinical integration, the role of neuroArm was progressively increased in 5 neurosurgical procedures. The impacts of neuroArm on operating room (OR) staff, hardware, software, and registration system performance were evaluated. NeuroArm was well received by OR staff and progressively integrated into patient cases, starting with draping in Case 1. In Case 2 and all subsequent cases, the robot was registered. It was used for tumor resection in Cases 3-5. Three incidents involving restrictive cable length, constrictive draping, and reregistration failure were resolved. In Case 5, the neuroArm safety system successfully mitigated a hardware failure. NeuroArm performs as well and as accurately as conventional techniques, with demonstrated safety technology. Clinical integration was well received by OR staff, and successful tumor resection validates the surgical applicability of neuroArm.