Predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure by combined volumetric, functional MR image and laboratory analysis

Predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: nomograms based on deep learning analysis of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to develop nomograms for predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), using deep learning analysis of Gadoxetic acid-enhanced hepatobiliary (HBP) MRI.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed patients who underwent gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI and hepatectomy for HCC between 2016 and 2020 at two referral centers. Using a deep learning algorithm, volumes and signal intensities of whole non-tumor liver, expected remnant liver, and spleen were measured on HBP images. Two multivariable logistic regression models were formulated to predict PHLF, defined and graded by the International Study Group of Liver Surgery: one based on whole non-tumor liver measurements (whole liver model) and the other on expected remnant liver measurements (remnant liver model). The models were presented as nomograms and a web-based calculator. Discrimination performance was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC), with internal validation through 1000-fold bootstrapping.

RESULTS

The study included 1760 patients (1395 male; mean age ± standard deviation, 60 ± 10 years), with 137 (7.8%) developing PHLF. Nomogram predictors included sex, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, prothrombin time international normalized ratio, platelets, extent of liver resection, and MRI variables derived from the liver volume, liver-to-spleen signal intensity ratio, and spleen volume. The whole liver and the remnant liver nomograms demonstrated strong predictive performance for PHLF (optimism-corrected AUC of 0.78 and 0.81, respectively) and symptomatic (grades B and C) PHLF (optimism-corrected AUC of 0.81 and 0.84, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Nomograms based on deep learning analysis of gadoxetic acid-enhanced HBP images accurately stratify the risk of PHLF.

KEY POINTS

Question Can PHLF be predicted by integrating clinical and MRI-derived volume and functional variables through deep learning analysis of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI? Findings Whole liver and remnant liver nomograms demonstrated strong predictive performance for PHLF with the optimism-corrected area under the curve of 0.78 and 0.81, respectively. Clinical relevance These nomograms can effectively stratify the risk of PHLF, providing a valuable tool for treatment decisions regarding hepatectomy for HCC.

Appropriate methods of evaluating future liver remnant volume to predict postoperative liver failure after major hepatectomy based on the body mass of patients with normal hepatic reserve

PURPOSE

Several parameters are used to assess future liver remnant (FLR) size before major hepatectomy. This study aimed to clarify which is the most appropriate method to use for the prediction of post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF).

METHODS

The subjects of this study were 307 patients with Child-Pugh class A only, who underwent major hepatectomy, to focus on FLR size. The parameters we evaluated for their accuracy in predicting Grade B/C PHLF (PHLF B/C) using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were FLR volume (FLRV), the FLRV to total liver volume ratio (FLRV/TLV), standard liver volume (FLRV/SLV), and body weight (FLRV/BW) according to body mass.

RESULTS

The predictive value accuracy of these four parameters for PHLF was similar for the entire cohort. However, in the subgroup analysis based on body mass index, FLRV/BW accuracy was highest in the obese group, whereas that of FLRV/TLV was highest in the lean group. Multivariate analysis identified that FLRV/BW (< 0.7%) and blood loss (≥ 1000 ml) were independent risk factors for PHLF B/C in the obese group. In the lean group, FLRV/TLV (< 40%) and biliary reconstruction were risk factors for PHLF B/C.

CONCLUSIONS

The FLR size evaluation method for predicting PHLF should be appropriately selected based on the patient's body mass.

Predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure with T1 mapping-based whole-liver histogram analysis on gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI: comparison with the indocyanine green clearance test and albumin-bilirubin scoring system

OBJECTIVES

To explore the value of T1 mapping-based whole-liver histogram analysis on gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI for predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF).

METHODS

Consecutive patients from March 2016 to March 2018 who underwent gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI in our hospital were retrospectively analyzed, and 37 patients were enrolled. Whole-liver T1 mapping-based histogram analysis was performed. The indocyanine green (ICG) clearance tests were performed, and albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) scores were calculated. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic analyses were performed to identify independent predictors for PHLF. Diagnostic performance was evaluated with ROC analysis. Histogram-extracted parameters were also associated with the ICG test and ALBI scoring system.

RESULTS

In enrolled 37 patients (age 57.19 ± 12.28 years), 28 were male. 35.1% (13/37) of patients developed PHLF. For univariate analysis, pre-contrast T1 relaxation time (T1pre) mean, T1pre 95th percentile, the standard deviation (SD) of T1 relaxation time in hepatobiliary phase (T1HBP SD), T1HBP 95th percentile, T1HBP kurtosis, and ICG percentage retained at 15 min (ICG-R15) showed significant differences between the PHLF and non-PHLF groups (all p < 0.05), whereas the ALBI scores showed no significant differences between the two groups (p = 0.937). Multivariate analysis showed that a higher T1HBP 95th percentile was the independent predictor for PHLF (p < 0.05; odds ratio (OR) = 1.014). In addition, most of the histogram-extracted parameters showed significant correlations to the ICG test.

CONCLUSIONS

T1 mapping-based whole-liver histogram analysis on gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI is valuable for PHLF prediction and risk stratification, which outperformed the ICG clearance test and ALBI scoring system.

KEY POINTS

Question What is the value of T1 mapping-based whole-liver histogram analysis on gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI for PHLF? Findings The histogram parameters extracted from gadoxetic acid-enhanced T1 mapping manifested potential for grading liver function preoperatively. Clinical relevance T1 mapping-based whole-liver histogram analysis on gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI can serve as a convenient one-station radiological tool to help identify potential PHLF risks within the preoperative clinical decision-making framework.

The impact of hepatic and splenic volumetric assessment in imaging for chronic liver disease: a narrative review

Chronic liver disease is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can fully visualise the liver and adjacent structures in the upper abdomen providing a reproducible assessment of the liver and biliary system and can detect features of portal hypertension. Subjective interpretation of CT and MRI in the assessment of liver parenchyma for early and advanced stages of fibrosis (pre-cirrhosis), as well as severity of portal hypertension, is limited. Quantitative and reproducible measurements of hepatic and splenic volumes have been shown to correlate with fibrosis staging, clinical outcomes, and mortality. In this review, we will explore the role of volumetric measurements in relation to diagnosis, assessment of severity and prediction of outcomes in chronic liver disease patients. We conclude that volumetric analysis of the liver and spleen can provide important information in such patients, has the potential to stratify patients' stage of hepatic fibrosis and disease severity, and can provide critical prognostic information. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: This review highlights the role of volumetric measurements of the liver and spleen using CT and MRI in relation to diagnosis, assessment of severity, and prediction of outcomes in chronic liver disease patients. KEY POINTS: Volumetry of the liver and spleen using CT and MRI correlates with hepatic fibrosis stages and cirrhosis. Volumetric measurements correlate with chronic liver disease outcomes. Fully automated methods for volumetry are required for implementation into routine clinical practice.

Significance of Prediction Models for Post-Hepatectomy Liver Failure Based on Type IV Collagen 7s Domain in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background: Previous studies have attempted to establish predictive models for post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing liver resection. However, a versatile and useful predictive model for PHLF remains to be developed. Therefore, we aimed to develop predictive models for PHLF based on type IV collagen 7s domain (7s collagen) in patients with HCC. Methods: We retrospectively collected data from 972 patients with HCC who had undergone initial curative liver resection between February 2000 and December 2020 at our hospital. Multivariate logistic regression analysis using a restricted cubic spline was performed to evaluate the effect of 7s collagen on the incidence of PHLF. A nomogram was developed based on 7s collagen. Results: PHLF grades B or C were identified in 104 patients (11%): 98 (10%) and 6 (1%) PHLF grades B and C, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the preoperative serum level of 7s collagen was significantly associated with a proportional increase in the risk of PHLF, which was confirmed in both laparoscopic and open liver resections. A nomogram was developed based on 7s collagen, with a concordance index of 0.768. The inclusion of 7s collagen values in the predictive model increased the predictive accuracy. Conclusion: The findings highlight the efficacy of the serum level of 7s collagen as a predictive factor for PHLF. Our novel nomogram using 7s collagen may be useful for predicting the risk of PHLF.

Predicting symptomatic post-hepatectomy liver failure in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: development and validation of a preoperative nomogram

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate a nomogram based on liver stiffness (LS) for predicting symptomatic post-hepatectomy (PHLF) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

A total of 266 patients with HCC were enrolled prospectively from three tertiary referral hospitals from August 2018 to April 2021. All patients underwent preoperative laboratory examination to obtain parameters of liver function. Two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) was performed to measure LS. Three-dimensional virtual resection obtained the different volumes including future liver remnant (FLR). A nomogram was developed by using logistic regression and determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and calibration curve analysis, which was validated internally and externally.

RESULTS

A nomogram was constructed with the following variables: FLR ratio (FLR of total liver volume), LS greater than 9.5 kPa, Child-Pugh grade, and the presence of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). This nomogram enabled differentiation of symptomatic PHLF in the derivation cohort (area under curve [AUC], 0.915), internal fivefold cross-validation (mean AUC, 0.918), internal validation cohort (AUC, 0.876) and external validation cohort (AUC, 0.845). The nomogram also showed good calibration in the derivation, internal validation, and external validation cohorts (Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, p = 0.641, p = 0.06, and p = 0.127, respectively). Accordingly, the safe limit of the FLR ratio was stratified using the nomogram.

CONCLUSION

An elevated level of LS was associated with the occurrence of symptomatic PHLF in HCC. A preoperative nomogram integrating LS, clinical and volumetric features was useful in predicting postoperative outcomes in patients with HCC, which might help surgeons in the management of HCC resection.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

A serial of the safe limit of the future liver remnant was proposed by a preoperative nomogram for hepatocellular carcinoma, which might help surgeons in 'how much remnant is enough in liver resection'.

KEY POINTS

• An elevated liver stiffness with the best cutoff value of 9.5 kPa was associated with the occurrence of symptomatic post-hepatectomy liver failure in hepatocellular carcinoma. • A nomogram based on both quality (Child-Pugh grade, liver stiffness, and portal hypertension) and quantity of future liver remnant was developed to predict symptomatic post-hepatectomy liver failure for HCC, which enabled good discrimination and calibration in both derivation and validation cohorts. • The safe limit of future liver remnant volume was stratified using the proposed nomogram, which might help surgeons in the management of HCC resection.

The Role of the Multiparametric MRI LiverMultiScanTM in the Quantitative Assessment of the Liver and Its Predicted Clinical Applications in Patients Undergoing Major Hepatic Resection for Colorectal Liver Metastasis

Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for the histological assessment of the liver. With clear disadvantages and the rise in the incidences of liver disease, the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) and an explosion of surgical management options available, non-invasive serological and imaging markers of liver histopathology have never been more pertinent in order to assess liver health and stratify patients considered for surgical intervention. Liver MRI is a leading modality in the assessment of hepatic malignancy. Recent technological advancements in multiparametric MRI software such as the LiverMultiScanTM offers an attractive non-invasive assay of anatomy and histopathology in the pre-operative setting, especially in the context of CRLM. This narrative review examines the evidence for the LiverMultiScanTM in the assessment of hepatic fibrosis, steatosis/steatohepatitis, and potential applications for chemotherapy-associated hepatic changes. We postulate its future role and the hurdles it must surpass in order to be implemented in the pre-operative management of patients undergoing hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastasis. Such a role likely extends to other hepatic malignancies planned for resection.

Four indices on Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI can estimate liver functional reserve compared to ICG-R15: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

To evaluate the value of four indices of gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid-enhanced (Gd-EOB-DTPA) magnetic resonance as a potential imaging marker of liver functional reserve.

METHODS

PubMed/Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched for studies concerning the relationship between Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI and liver functional reserve estimated by ICG-R15, Pooled correlation coefficient (r) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, Meanwhile, Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed along with Egger's test for the estimation of publication bias and potential heterogeneity.

RESULTS

14 publications with 1285 patients were included. The pooled r between relative liver enhancement (RLE), reduction rate of T1 relaxation time of the liver (rrT1), liver-to-spleen ratio (LSR), liver-to-muscle ratio (LMR), and ICG-R15 were -0.49 (95% CI, -0.56 to -0.41, p < 0.05), -0.47 (95% CI, -0.57 to -0.36, p < 0.05), -0.45 (95% CI, -0.55 to -0.34, p < 0.05), -0.50 (95% CI, -0.61 to -0.38, p < 0.05). moderate heterogeneity was observed between studies on rrT1, LSR, LMR, and ICG-R15 (p ≤ 0.05), but no significant heterogeneity was observed between RLE and ICG-R15. Further analysis shows that there was a notable heterogeneity between subgroup analysis of LSR and ICG-R15 stratified by years of publication, as well as rrT1 and LMR stratified by total patients and study design, the distribution funnel plots and the results of Egger's test showed no evidence of publication bias.

CONCLUSIONS

RLE, LSR, LMR, and rrT1 all correlated significantly with ICG-R15-estimated hepatic functional reserve. The four indices represent a promising imaging biomarker in the prediction of liver functional reserve.

Volume-Assisted Estimation of Remnant Liver Function Based on Gd-EOB-DTPA Enhanced MR Relaxometry: A Prospective Observational Trial

In the context of liver surgery, predicting postoperative liver dysfunction is essential. This study explored the potential of preoperative liver function assessment by MRI for predicting postoperative liver dysfunction and compared these results with the established indocyanine green (ICG) clearance test. This prospective study included patients undergoing liver resection with preoperative MRI planning. Liver function was quantified using T1 relaxometry and correlated with established liver function scores. The analysis revealed an improved model for predicting postoperative liver dysfunction, exhibiting an accuracy (ACC) of 0.79, surpassing the 0.70 of the preoperative ICG test, alongside a higher area under the curve (0.75). Notably, the proposed model also successfully predicted all cases of liver failure and showed potential in predicting liver synthesis dysfunction (ACC 0.78). This model showed promise in patient survival rates with a Hazard ratio of 0.87, underscoring its potential as a valuable tool for preoperative evaluation. The findings imply that MRI-based assessment of liver function can provide significant benefits in the early identification and management of patients at risk for postoperative liver dysfunction.

CT-derived extracellular volume and liver volumetry can predict posthepatectomy liver failure in hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is a severe complication of liver resection. We aimed to develop and validate a model based on extracellular volume (ECV) and liver volumetry derived from computed tomography (CT) for preoperative predicting PHLF in resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients.

METHODS

A total of 393 resectable HCC patients from two hospitals were enrolled and underwent multiphasic contrast-enhanced CT before surgery. A total of 281 patients from our hospital were randomly divided into a training cohort (n = 181) and an internal validation cohort (n = 100), and 112 patients from another hospital formed the external validation cohort. CT-derived ECV was measured on nonenhanced and equilibrium phase images, and liver volumetry was measured on portal phase images. The model is composed of independent predictors of PHLF. The under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration curve were used to reflect the predictive performance and calibration of the model. Comparison of AUCs used the DeLong test.

RESULTS

CT-derived ECV, measured future liver remnant (mFLR) ratio, and serum albumin were independent predictors for PHLF in resectable HCC patients. The AUC of the model was significantly higher than that of the ALBI score in the training cohort, internal validation cohort, and external validation cohort (all p < 0.001). The calibration curve of the model showed good consistency in the training cohort and the internal and external validation cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

The novel model contributes to the preoperative prediction of PHLF in resectable HCC patients.

CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

The novel model combined CT-derived extracellular volume, measured future liver remnant ratio, and serum albumin outperforms the albumin-bilirubin score for predicting posthepatectomy liver failure in patients with resectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

KEY POINTS

• CT-derived ECV correlated well with the fibrosis stage of the background liver. • CT-derived ECV and mFLR ratio were independent predictors for PHLF in HCC. • The AUC of the model was higher than the CT-derived ECV and mFLR ratio. • The model showed a superior predictive performance than that of the ALBI score.

How Much Is Enough? A Surgical Perspective on Imaging Modalities to Estimate Function and Volume of the Future Liver Remnant before Hepatic Resection

Liver resection is the first curative option for most hepatic primary and secondary malignancies. However, post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) still represents a non-negligible postoperative complication, embodying the most frequent cause of hepatic-related mortality. In the absence of a specific treatment, the most effective way to deal with PHLF is its prevention through a careful preoperative assessment of future liver remnant (FLR) volume and function. Apart from the clinical score and classical criteria to define the safe limit of resectability, new imaging modalities have shown their ability to assist surgeons in planning the best operative strategy with a precise estimation of the FLR amount. New technologies leading to liver and tumor 3D reconstruction may guide the surgeon along the best resection planes combining the least liver parenchymal sacrifice with oncological appropriateness. Integration with imaging modalities, such as hepatobiliary scintigraphy, capable of estimating total and regional liver function, may bring about a decrease in postoperative complications. Magnetic resonance imaging with hepatobiliary contrast seems to be predominant since it simultaneously integrates hepatic function and volume information along with a precise characterization of the target malignancy.

Clinical Application of Shear Wave Elastography With Shear Wave Dispersion Imaging in the Preoperative Evaluation of Hepatic Parenchyma in Patients With Liver Tumors

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of shear wave elastography (SWE) with that of shear wave dispersion (SWD) in evaluation of hepatic parenchyma in patients with liver tumors before resection.

METHODS

A total of 174 patients with liver tumors were prospectively enrolled. SWE and SWD examinations were performed. Fibrosis stage and necroinflammatory activity were determined histopathologically according to the Scheuer standard. We compared the diagnostic accuracy of SWE and SWD.

RESULTS

Both SWE and SWD values of the liver were highly correlated with liver fibrosis stage (P < .05, respectively). Both SWE and SWD values of the liver were moderately correlated with necroinflammatory activity (P < .05, respectively). Both SWE and SWD values of the liver were not correlated with steatosis (P > .05, respectively). Both SWE and SWD values were significantly different among the patients with different stages of liver fibrosis (P < .001, respectively). The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of SWE value was 0.982, 0.977, 0.969, and 0.984 for predicting S ≥ 1, S ≥ 2, S ≥ 3, and S = 4, respectively. The optimal cutoff SWE values were 6.9, 7.9, 8.7, and 10.6 kPa for S ≥ 1, S ≥ 2, S ≥ 3, and S = 4, respectively. The area under the ROC curve of SWD value was 0.967, 0.960, 0.925, and 0.954 for predicting S ≥ 1, S ≥ 2, S ≥ 3, and S = 4, respectively. The optimal cutoff SWD values were 11.2, 12.0, 13.2, and 16.0 m/s/kHz for S ≥ 1, S ≥ 2, S ≥ 3, and S = 4, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

SWE and SWD could be noninvasive and accurate for predicting the stage of liver fibrosis in patients with liver tumors before surgery. SWE was more accurate than SWD in predicting severe fibrosis (S ≥ 3) and cirrhosis (S = 4).

Role of Machine Learning-Based CT Body Composition in Risk Prediction and Prognostication: Current State and Future Directions

CT body composition analysis has been shown to play an important role in predicting health and has the potential to improve patient outcomes if implemented clinically. Recent advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning have led to high speed and accuracy for extracting body composition metrics from CT scans. These may inform preoperative interventions and guide treatment planning. This review aims to discuss the clinical applications of CT body composition in clinical practice, as it moves towards widespread clinical implementation.

Clinical application of two dimensional shear wave elastography with a propagation map in evaluating liver fibrosis in patients with liver tumors

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) with a propagation map in evaluating the degree of hepatic fibrosis in patients with liver tumors before resection.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

From January 2020 to April 2021, 128 patients with liver tumors were prospectively enrolled, including 20 benign liver tumors and 108 malignant liver tumors. 2D-SWE with a propagation map technology was used to measure the stiffness of liver parenchyma 2 cm away from the tumor. The median value of five measurements was used in this study. The stage of hepatic fibrosis was graded in accordance with Scheuer standard. Spearman correlation was used to analyze the correlation between liver fibrosis stage and the liver stiffness. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to determine significant affecting factors for liver stiffness value. The diagnostic performance of 2D-SWE with a propagation map in predicting fibrosis stage was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

RESULTS

The median liver stiffness value in patients with benign liver tumors was lower than that in patients with malignant liver tumors (6.0 kPa vs. 9.4 kPa, p < 0.05). The median liver stiffness values in patients with primary liver cancer were higher than that in patients with benign liver tumors and other types of malignant liver tumors (9.6 kPa vs. 6.0 kPa, p < 0.05). The liver stiffness measured by 2D-SWE was highly correlated with the fibrosis stage confirmed by postoperative pathology (r = 0.834, p < 0.05). For the liver stiffness value, PLT,TB,ALB and fibrosis stage are significantly associated with liver stiffness. The median liver stiffness values in stages S0-S4 of fibrosis were 6.0, 7.2, 8.0, 9.4, and 12.6 kPa, respectively. The areas under the ROC curve of S≥1, S≥2, S≥3, and S = 4 as predicted by SWE were 0.932, 0.945, 0.945, and 0.916, respectively. According to the Youden index, the optimal critical values for predicting fibrosis S≥1, S≥2, S≥3, and S = 4 were 6.8 (sensitivity of 89.69% and specificity of 93.55%), 7.5 (sensitivity of 87.50 % and specificity of 95.00 %), 8.3 (sensitivity of 87.14 % and specificity of 87.93 %) and 9.8 (sensitivity of 79.55 % and specificity of 86.90 %) kPa.

CONCLUSION

2D-SWE with a propagation map could noninvasively and accurately predict the staging of liver fibrosis in patients with liver tumors before resection.

A nomogram for predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma based on spleen-volume-to-platelet ratio

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is one of the most serious complications after hepatectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and has an association with high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to explore the risk factors of PHLF and to establish and validate a nomogram to predict PHLF.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 971 HCC patients undergoing major liver resection at the Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital between 2011 and 2016, and established a nomogram based on multivariate analyses for predicting PHLF. The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability of the nomogram were evaluated by concordance index (C-index) and calibration curve. The predictive ability of PHLF of this nomogram was compared with conventional models using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

RESULTS

The incidence of PHLF was 18.8%. Multivariate analysis identified age, BMI, preoperative ascites, preoperative prealbumin, spleen volume-to-platelet ratio, total bilirubin, and intraoperative blood loss as independent predictors of PHLF. The area under ROC curve (AUROC) of the predictive model was 0.668 and was higher than that of the albumin-bilirubin score (ALBI). The optimal cut-off value of the model was 124.

CONCLUSIONS

We constructed a nomogram for predicting PHLF based on risk factors. The nomogram can assist clinicians in identifying patients with high-risk PHLF, eventually facilitating earlier interventions and improving clinical outcomes.

Liver volume based prediction model for patients with hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is a life-threatening disease with high short-term mortality. Early and accurate prognosis is significant for clinical decisions, in which liver volume (LV) imparts important information. However, LV has not been considered in current prognostic models for HBV-ACLF.

METHODS

Three hundred and twenty-three patients were recruited to the deriving cohort, while 163 were enrolled to validation cohort. The primary end-point was death within 28 days since admission. Estimated liver volume (ELV) was calculated by the formula based on healthy population. Logistic regression was used to develop a prediction model. Accuracy of models were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

RESULTS

The ratio of LV to ELV (LV/ELV%) was significantly lower in non-survivors, and LV/ELV% ≤82% indicated poor prognosis. LV/ELV%, Age, prothrombin time (PT), the grade of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), ln-transformed total bilirubin (lnTBil), and log-transformed HBV DNA (Log₁₀ HBV DNA) were identified as independent predictors to develop an LV-based model, LEAP-HBV. The mean area under the ROC (AUC) of LEAP-HBV was 0.906 (95% CI, 0.904-0.908), higher than other non-LV-based models.

CONCLUSION

Liver volume was an independent predictor, and LEAP-HBV, a prediction model based on LV, was developed for the short-term mortality in HBV-ACLF. This study was registered on ClinicalTrails (NCT03977857).

The value of gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced biliary imaging from the hepatobiliary phase for predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure in HCC patients

OBJECTIVES

To determine the value of gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced biliary imaging from the hepatobiliary phase for predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

Patients with HCC who underwent gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced hepatobiliary magnetic resonance imaging prior to hepatectomy were collected in two centers. The relative enhancement ratio of the biliary system (REB) and the liver to muscle ratio (LMR) were measured at the hepatobiliary phase. Potential risk factors for PHLF were analyzed by logistic regression. The capacity of the REB and LMR to predict PHLF was analyzed via receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

Of the 221 patients, post-hepatectomy liver failure occurred in 60 patients (27.1%). The REB was an independent risk factor for PHLF (odds ratio [OR] = 0.127 [0.047-0.348], p < 0.001). Although the LMR tended to be associated with PHLF (p = 0.063), it was not an independent risk factor in the multivariable analysis (OR = 0.624 [0.023-16.709], p = 0.779). Moreover, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the REB and LMR was 0.87 and 0.60. The most appropriate cutoff value for the REB was 2.21. The HCC patients with the REB ≤ 2.21 had a higher incidence of post-hepatectomy liver failure than those with the REB > 2.21 (60.0% versus 8.5%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced biliary imaging from the hepatobiliary phase was valuable in predicting post-hepatectomy liver failure in HCC patients.

KEY POINTS

• The relative enhancement ratio of the biliary system (REB) was an independent risk factor for post-hepatectomy liver failure in HCC patients. • HCC patients with the REB ≤ 2.21 had significantly higher incidence of post-hepatectomy liver failure than those with the REB > 2.21 (60.0% versus 8.5%).

Predictive value of Gd-EOB-DTPA -enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for post-hepatectomy liver failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Accurate preoperative diagnosis of post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is particularly important to improve the prognosis of patients.

Purpose

To evaluate the predictive value of Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for post-hepatectomy liver failure.

Material and Methods

A systematic search was performed in the PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases to find relevant original articles published up to December 2021. The included studies were assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. The bivariate random-effects model was used to assess the diagnostic authenticity. Meta-regression analyses were performed to analyze the potential heterogeneity.

Results

In total, 13 articles were included. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curves were 88% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.80–0.94), 80% (95% CI = 0.73–0.86), 4.4 (95% CI = 3.3–5.9), 0.14 (95% CI = 0.08–0.25), 31 (95% CI = 17–57), and 0.91 (95% CI = 0.89–0.94), respectively. There was no publication bias and threshold effect in our study.

Conclusion

Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI is a potentially useful for the prediction of PHLF after major hepatectomy.

LRFNet: A deep learning model for the assessment of liver reserve function based on Child-Pugh score and CT image

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Liver reserve function should be accurately evaluated in patients with hepatic cellular cancer before surgery to evaluate the degree of liver tolerance to surgical methods. Meanwhile, liver reserve function is also an important indicator for disease analysis and prognosis of patients. Child-Pugh score is the most widely used liver reserve function evaluation and scoring system. However, this method also has many shortcomings such as poor accuracy and subjective factors. To achieve comprehensive evaluation of liver reserve function, we developed a deep learning model to fuse bimodal features of Child-Pugh score and computed tomography (CT) image.

METHODS

1022 enhanced abdomen CT images of 121 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and impaired liver reserve function were retrospectively collected. Firstly, CT images were pre-processed by de-noising, data amplification and normalization. Then, new branches were added between the dense blocks of the DenseNet structure, and the center clipping operation was introduced to obtain a lightweight deep learning model liver reserve function network (LRFNet) with rich liver scale features. LRFNet extracted depth features related to liver reserve function from CT images. Finally, the extracted features are input into a deep learning classifier composed of fully connected layers to classify CT images into Child-Pugh A, B and C. Precision, Specificity, Sensitivity, and Area Under Curve are used to evaluate the performance of the model.

RESULTS

The AUC by our LRFNet model based on CT image for Child-Pugh A, B and C classification of liver reserve function was 0.834, 0.649 and 0.876, respectively, and with an average AUC of 0.774, which was better than the traditional clinical subjective Child-Pugh classification method.

CONCLUSION

Deep learning model based on CT images can accurately classify Child-Pugh grade of liver reserve function in hepatocellular carcinoma patients, provide a comprehensive method for clinicians to assess liver reserve function before surgery.

Gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for evaluating fibrosis regression in chronic hepatitis C patients after direct-acting antiviral

BACKGROUND

Direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy has enabled hepatitis C virus infection to become curable, while histological changes remain uncontained. Few valid non-invasive methods can be confirmed for use in surveillance. Gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA) is a liver-specific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast, related to liver function in the hepatobiliary phase (HBP). Whether Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI can be used in the diagnosis and follow up of hepatic fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) has not been investigated.

AIM

To investigate the diagnostic and follow-up values of Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI for hepatic histology in patients with CHC.

METHODS

Patients with CHC were invited to undergo Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI and liver biopsy before treatment, and those with paired qualified MRI and liver biopsy specimens were included. Transient elastography (TE) and blood tests were also arranged. Patients treated with DAAs who achieved 24-wk sustained virological response (SVR) underwent Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI and liver biopsy again. The signal intensity (SI) of the liver and muscle were measured in the unenhanced phase (UEP) (SI_UEP-liver, SI_UEP-muscle) and HBP (SI_HBP-liver, SI_HBP-muscle) via MRI. The contrast enhancement index (CEI) was calculated as [(SI_HBP-liver/SI_HBP-muscle)]/[(SI_UEP-liver/SI_UEP-muscle)]. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) was confirmed with TE. Serologic markers, aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) and Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4), were also calculated according to blood tests. The grade of inflammation and stage of fibrosis were evaluated with the modified histology activity index (mHAI) and Ishak fibrosis score, respectively. Fibrosis regression was defined as a ≥ 1-point decrease in the Ishak fibrosis score. The correlation between the CEI and liver pathology was evaluated. The diagnostic and follow-up values of the CEI, LSM, and serologic markers were compared.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients with CHC were enrolled [average age, 42.3 ± 14.4 years; 20/39 (51.3%) male]. Twenty-one enrolled patients had eligible paired Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI and liver tissues after achieving SVR. The mHAI median significantly decreased after SVR [baseline 6.0 (4.5-13.5) vs SVR 2.0 (1.5-5.5), Z = 3.322, P = 0.017], but the median stage of fibrosis did not notably change (P > 0.05). Sixty pairs of qualified MRI and liver tissue samples were available for use to analyze the relationship between the CEI and hepatic pathology. The CEI was negatively correlated with the mHAI (r = -0.56, P < 0.001) and Ishak score (r = -0.69, P < 0.001). Further stratified analysis showed that the value of the CEI decreased with the progression of the stage of fibrosis rather than with the grade of necroinflammation. For patients with Ishak score ≥ 5, the areas under receiver operating characteristics curve of the CEI, LSM, APRI, and FIB-4 were approximately at baseline, 0.87–0.93, and after achieving SVR, 0.83–0.91. The CEI cut-off value was stable (baseline 1.58 and SVR 1.59), but those of the APRI (from 1.05 to 0.24), FIB-4 (from 1.78 to 1.28), and LSM (from 10.8 kpa to 7.1 kpa) decreased dramatically. The APRI and FIB-4 cannot be used as diagnostic means for SVR in patients with Ishak score ≥ 3 (P > 0.05). Seven patients achieved fibrosis regression after achieving SVR. In these patients, the CEI median increased (from 1.71 to 1.83, Z = -1.981, P = 0.048) and those of the APRI (from 1.71 to 1.83, Z = -2.878, P = 0.004) and LSM (from 6.6 to 4.8, Z = -2.366, P = 0.018) decreased. However, in patients without fibrosis regression, the medians of the APRI, FIB-4, and LSM also changed significantly (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI has good diagnostic value for staging fibrosis in patients with CHC. It can be used for fibrotic-change monitoring post SVR in patients with CHC treated with DAAs.

Minimizing the risk of small-for-size syndrome after liver surgery

BACKGROUND

Primary and secondary liver tumors are not always amenable to resection due to location and size. Inadequate future liver remnant (FLR) may prevent patients from having a curative resection or may result in increased postoperative morbidity and mortality from complications related to small-for-size syndrome (SFSS).

DATA SOURCES

This comprehensive review analyzed the principles, mechanism and risk factors associated with SFSS and presented current available options in the evaluation of FLR when planning liver surgery. In addition, it provided a detailed description of specific modalities that can be used before, during or after surgery, in order to optimize the conditions for a safe resection and minimize the risk of SFSS.

RESULTS

Several methods which aim to reduce tumor burden, preserve healthy liver parenchyma, induce hypertrophy of FLR or prevent postoperative complications help minimize the risk of SFSS.

CONCLUSIONS

With those techniques the indications of radical treatment for patients with liver tumors have significantly expanded. The successful outcome depends on appropriate patient selection, the individualization and modification of interventions and the right timing of surgery.

Evaluation of Threshold Dose of Damaged Hepatic Tissue After Carbon-Ion Radiation Therapy Using Gd-EOB-DTPA-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Purpose

To evaluate the threshold dose and associated factors using signal-intensity changes in the irradiated area after carbon-ion radiation therapy (C-ion RT) for patients with liver cancer.

Methods and Materials

Patients treated for the first time with C-ion RT for malignant liver tumors and followed up with 3-Tesla gadoxetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA)–enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 3 months after treatment completion were retrospectively enrolled. The volume of focal liver reaction (FLR), a low-intensity area in the hepatobiliary phase of Gd-EOB-DTPA after treatment, was measured. Corrected FLR (cFLR) volume, defined as FLR corrected for changes in tumor volume from before to after treatment, was calculated, and the threshold dose was determined by applying the cFLR volume in the dose-volume histogram. To evaluate potential mismatch in fusion images of planning computed tomography and follow-up MRI, the concordance coefficient (CC) was measured, and patients with a CC < 0.7 were excluded. Sixty patients were included. Multiple regression analysis was performed with the threshold dose as the objective variable and the age, dose, number of fractionations, Child-Pugh score, pretreatment liver volume, and pretreatment tumor volume as explanatory variables. The Student t test or Mann-Whitney U test was used as required.

Results

The median threshold doses for each number of dose fractionations (4 fractions, 12 fractions, and overall) were 51.6, 51.9, and 51.8 Gy (relative biological effectiveness [RBE]), respectively, in patients categorized as Child-Pugh class A and 27.0, 28.8, and 27.0 Gy (RBE), respectively, in patients categorized as Child-Pugh class B. In the multiple-regression analysis, only the Child-Pugh score was significant (P < .001). The number of dose fractionations was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Although few patients in the study had decreased liver function, baseline liver function was the only factor significantly associated with the median threshold dose. These findings facilitate appropriate patient selection to receive C-ion RT for malignant hepatic tumors.

Hepatectomy-Induced Alterations in Hepatic Perfusion and Function - Toward Multi-Scale Computational Modeling for a Better Prediction of Post-hepatectomy Liver Function

Liver resection causes marked perfusion alterations in the liver remnant both on the organ scale (vascular anatomy) and on the microscale (sinusoidal blood flow on tissue level). These changes in perfusion affect hepatic functions via direct alterations in blood supply and drainage, followed by indirect changes of biomechanical tissue properties and cellular function. Changes in blood flow impose compression, tension and shear forces on the liver tissue. These forces are perceived by mechanosensors on parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells of the liver and regulate cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions as well as cellular signaling and metabolism. These interactions are key players in tissue growth and remodeling, a prerequisite to restore tissue function after PHx. Their dysregulation is associated with metabolic impairment of the liver eventually leading to liver failure, a serious post-hepatectomy complication with high morbidity and mortality. Though certain links are known, the overall functional change after liver surgery is not understood due to complex feedback loops, non-linearities, spatial heterogeneities and different time-scales of events. Computational modeling is a unique approach to gain a better understanding of complex biomedical systems. This approach allows (i) integration of heterogeneous data and knowledge on multiple scales into a consistent view of how perfusion is related to hepatic function; (ii) testing and generating hypotheses based on predictive models, which must be validated experimentally and clinically. In the long term, computational modeling will (iii) support surgical planning by predicting surgery-induced perfusion perturbations and their functional (metabolic) consequences; and thereby (iv) allow minimizing surgical risks for the individual patient. Here, we review the alterations of hepatic perfusion, biomechanical properties and function associated with hepatectomy. Specifically, we provide an overview over the clinical problem, preoperative diagnostics, functional imaging approaches, experimental approaches in animal models, mechanoperception in the liver and impact on cellular metabolism, omics approaches with a focus on transcriptomics, data integration and uncertainty analysis, and computational modeling on multiple scales. Finally, we provide a perspective on how multi-scale computational models, which couple perfusion changes to hepatic function, could become part of clinical workflows to predict and optimize patient outcome after complex liver surgery.

Clinical evaluation of modified ALPPS procedures based on risk-reduced strategy for staged hepatectomy

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Radical resection remains the only curative treatment for liver tumors. Although associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) can increase the resection rate, huge controversy exists for high reported mortality and morbidity. This study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of modified ALPPS procedure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients who were performed ALPPS in single-center in recent 5 years were retrospectively reviewed. The modified strategy included strict patient selection, precise future liver remnant (FLR) assessment and operation planning, and usage of minimally invasive methods. Data including clinical records, functional FLR increase, complications, and overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Sixty patients underwent modified ALPPS procedure and recovered well. No severe complications happened after the 1-stage operation, and the increasing FLR was 179.3 cm³(±72.4 cm³), with similar functional FLR increase. The OS was 20.0 months (±4.5month).

CONCLUSIONS

ALPPS could be a feasible treatment for complex liver tumors by risk-reduced modification. It could be expected to provide long-term survival for patients without enough FLR.

Modified Procedures for ALPPS Based on a Risk-Reduced Strategy: Paralleled Clinical Evaluation at Multiple Institutions

PURPOSE

We compared the clinical outcomes of modified procedures for associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) based on a risk-reduced strategy with those of classic ALPPS procedures in treating large liver carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Short-term outcomes, increases in future liver remnant (FLR) and functional FLR (FFLR), and overall survival (OS) were compared between 45 consecutive patients treated with modified ALPPS procedures and 34 patients treated with classic ALPPS procedures.

RESULTS

Clinical outcomes after the 1st-stage operation markedly improved with the modified procedures. Although the proportions of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma were higher in the modified group, the mortality and incidence of severe complications did not increase. FLR and FFLR hypertrophy at 1 week after the 1st-stage operation were similar in both groups; however, kinetic growth rates in the modified group were lower. OS rates were similar.

CONCLUSION

Modified ALPPS procedures could be safely applied to provide long-term survival for patients with liver cirrhosis without sufficient FLR.

Assessment of the relationship between the hepatic contrast enhancement effect in the hepatobiliary phase and hepatic signal changes in free-breathing continuous multiphasic dynamic EOB-MRI

PURPOSE

To investigate the relationship between the hepatic contrast enhancement effect in the hepatobiliary phase (HBP) and the contrast enhancement parameters based on the data of continuous signal changes in free-breathing multiphasic dynamic EOB-MR imaging using a compressed sensing (CS) and the self-gating technique, and to clarify which contrast enhancement parameters are useful for estimating the hepatic enhancement effect in the HPB.

METHOD

This study included 96 patients. The contrast enhancement ratio (CER) of the liver parenchyma from phase x to phase y was calculated as follows: CER_y-x: (SI_y -SI_x)/SI_x. The gradient of the regression line (GRL) was also calculated. Patients can be divided into two groups with sufficient or insufficient liver enhancement in the HBP, then each parameter was compared between these two groups.

RESULTS

In the analysis of the arterioportal phases, CER_7-pre in the sufficient HBP enhancement group was significantly higher than that in the insufficient HBP enhancement group (0.50 vs 0.44, p < 0.001). Regarding 5 min early hepatocyte phase (phases 1-28) analysis, significant differences were observed in CER_28-pre, CER_28-7 and Gradient_28-7 between the two groups (0.64 vs 0.47, 0.10 vs 0.03, 1.27 vs 0.27, all p < 0.001). For the strength of correlation, CER_7-pre, CER_28-pre, CER_28-7, and GRL_28-7 had higher correlation coefficients, compared with the blood sampling data.

CONCLUSION

CER in the arterio-portal phase and 5 min early hepatocyte phase had significant correlation with hepatic contrast enhancement effects in the 20 min HBP, suggesting that sufficient 20 min HBP enhancement may be estimated by the CER in the portal phase and 5 min early hepatocyte phase.

Predictive value of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI for posthepatectomy liver failure: a systematic review

Objectives

Effective and non-invasive biomarkers to predict and avoid posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) are urgently needed. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI-derived parameters as an imaging biomarker in preoperative prediction of PHLF.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in the databases of PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library up to 11 December 2020. Studies evaluating the incidence of PHLF on patients who underwent hepatectomy with preoperative liver function assessment using gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI were included. Data was extracted using pre-designed tables. The Quality In Prognostic Studies (QUIPS) tool was adopted to evaluate the risk of bias.

Results

A total of 15 studies were identified for qualitative synthesis and most studies were marked as low to moderate risk of bias in each domain of QUIPS. The most commonly used parameter was relative liver enhancement or its related parameters. The reported incidence of PHLF ranged from 3.9 to 40%. The predictive sensitivity and specificity of gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI parameters varied from 75 to 100% and from 54 to 93% in ten reported studies. A majority of the studies revealed that the gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI parameter was a predictor for PHLF.

Conclusions

Gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI showed a high predictive capacity for PHLF and represents a promising imaging biomarker in prediction of PHLF. Multicenter, prospective trials with large sample size and reliable, unified liver function parameters are required to validate the efficacy of individual liver function parameters.

Key Points

• There is an obvious heterogeneity of the published studies, not only in variance of MRI liver function parameters but also in indication and extent of the liver resection.

• Signal intensity (SI)–based parameters derived from gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI are the commonly used method for PHLF prediction.

• Gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI-derived parameters showed high predictive efficacy for PHLF and can potentially serve as a predictor for the incidence of PHLF.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00330-021-08297-8.

Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Gd-EOB-DTPA MR Imaging

Gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA; Gadoxetic acid; Gadoxetate disodium) is a hepatocyte-specific MR contrast agent. It acts as an extracellular contrast agent in the early phase after intravenous injection, and then is taken up by hepatocytes later. Using this contrast agent, we can evaluate the hemodynamics of the liver and liver tumors, and can therefore improve the detection and characterization of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Gd-EOB-DTPA helps in the more accurate detection of hypervascular HCC than by other agents. In addition, Gd-EOB-DTPA can detect hypovascular HCC, which is an early stage of the multi-stage carcinogenesis, with a low signal in the hepatobiliary phase. In addition to tumor detection and characterization, Gd-EOB-DTPA contrast-enhanced MR imaging can be applied for liver function evaluation and prognoses evaluation. Thus, Gd-EOB-DTPA plays an important role in the diagnosis of HCC. However, we have to employ optimal imaging techniques to improve the diagnostic ability. In this review, we aimed to discuss the characteristics of the contrast media, optimal imaging techniques, diagnosis, and applications.

Prediction of remnant liver volume using 3D simulation software in patients undergoing R1vasc parenchyma-sparing hepatectomy for multiple bilobar colorectal liver metastases: reliability, clinical impact, and learning curve

BACKGROUND

Assessment of the future liver remnant (FLR) is routinely performed before major hepatectomy. In R1-vascular one-stage hepatectomy (R1vasc-OSH), given the multiplanar dissection paths, the FLR is not easily predictable. Preoperative 3D-virtual casts may help. We evaluated the predictability of the FLR using the 3D-virtual cast in the R1vasc-OSH for multiple bilobar colorectal liver metastases (CLM).

METHODS

Thirty consecutive patients with multiple bilobar CLMs scheduled for R1vasc-OSH were included. Predicted and real-FLRs were compared. Propensity score-matched analysis was used to determine the impact of 3D-virtual cast on postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Median number of CLM and resection areas were 12 (4-33) and 3 (1-8). Median predicted-FLR was 899 ml (558-1157) and 60% (42-85), while for the real-FLR 915 ml (566-1777) and 63% (43-87). Median discrepancy between predicted and real-FLR was -0.6% (p = 0.504), indicating a slight tendency to underestimate the FLR. The difference was more evident in more than 12 CLMs (p = 0.013). A discrepancy was not evident according to the number of resection areas (p = 0.316). No mortality occurred. Patients in virtual-group had lower major complications compared to nonvirtual-group (0% vs 18%, p-value 0.014).

CONCLUSION

FLR estimation based on 3D-analysis is feasible, provides a safe surgery and represents a promising method in planning R1vasc-OSH for patients with multiple bilobar CLMs.

Platelet microparticles-derived miR-25-3p promotes the hepatocyte proliferation and cell autophagy via reducing B-cell translocation gene 2

Platelets are critical regulators of liver regeneration, but the mechanisms are still not fully understood. Platelets have been shown to contain a wide variety of microRNAs (miRNAs) and play an important role in many diseases. However, the mechanism that how the platelet microparticles (PMPs)-derived miRNA regulate the hepatocyte proliferation is not very clear. In this study, we have successfully isolated and identified PMPs. We also found that PMPs, which could be well integrated into the HHL-5 cells, could upregulate the level of miR-25-3p in HHL-5 cells. Meanwhile, we found that PMPs-derived miR-25-3p promoted HHL-5 cells proliferation by accelerating cells into the S phase, and enhanced the autophagy by increasing the LC3II expression and reducing the P62 expression. Then, we proved that the miR-25-3p could target the B-cell translocation gene 2 (BTG2) and downregulate the expression levels of the BTG2 gene in HHL-5 cells. In addition, the overexpression of BTG2 significantly inhibited the proliferation and autophagy abilities of HHL-5 cells, while cotransfected miR-25-3p mimics or PMPs could partially rescue HHL-5 cells proliferation and autophagy. Furthermore, we proved that PMPs accelerated hepatocyte proliferation by regulating autophagy pathways. Therefore, PMPs-derived miR-25-3p promoted HHL-5 cell proliferation and autophagy by targeting BTG2, which may be a new therapeutic method for liver regeneration.

Preoperative Remnant Liver Function Evaluation Using a Routine Clinical Dynamic Gd-EOB-DTPA-Enhanced MRI Protocol in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

To investigate the clinical feasibility of preoperative routine clinical dynamic Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI alone to predict post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

116 patients with HCC who underwent liver resection in Southwest Hospital from 2014 through 2017 were selected in this retrospective cohort study. The remnant function (RF) of the liver RF_UR and RF_RE15 were calculated by the sum of the uptake rate (UR) or relative enhancement at 15 min (RE15) from dynamic Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MR images in the remnant liver regions, and standardized by standard liver volume (SLV) to generate sRF_UR (standardized RF_UR) and sRF_RE15 (standardized RF_RE15). Student's t test or Mann-Whitney U test, logistic regression, and ROC analyses were used to test the associations of preoperative RF_UR, sRF_UR, RF_RE15, sRF_RE15, the remnant liver volume (RLV)/SLV, ICG retention rate at 15 min (ICG R15) and sRF_ICG-K [ICG clearance rate (ICG-K) × RLV/SLV] with PHLF.

RESULTS

28 patients were found to have PHLF, who showed lower RF_UR, sRF_UR, RF_RE15, sRF_RE15, RLV/SLV, sRF_ICG-K, and higher ICG R15 than patients without PHLF (p < 0.001 for all). After adjusting for clinical parameters, RF_UR (p = 0.001), sRF_UR (p = 0.001), RF_RE15 (p = 0.002), or sRF_RE15 (p = 0.003) was found to be independently significant indicator in multivariable logistic regression, respectively. RF_UR (0.882) and sRF_UR (0.882) had larger AUCs than RLV/SLV (0.731, p = 0.008; p = 0.005), ICG R15 (0.765, p = 0.039; p = 0.044) and sRF_ICG-K (0.767, p = 0.031; p = 0.023). RF_RE15 (0.845) and sRF_RE15 (0.839) had larger AUCs than RLV/SLV (0.731, p = 0.027; p = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

The remnant liver function parameters preoperatively estimated from a routine clinical dynamic Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI protocol can predict PHLF in patients with HCC, and may be better predictors than conventional methods.

Efficacy and factors affecting the choice of enucleation and liver resection for giant hemangioma: a retrospective propensity score-matched study

Background

Liver resection (LR) and enucleation (EN) are the main surgical treatment for giant hepatic hemangioma (HH), but how to choose the type of surgery is still controversial. This study aimed to explore the efficacy and the factors affecting the choice of open procedure for HH.

Methods

The data for patients with pathologically confirmed HH who underwent open surgery from April 2014 to August 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses with logistic regression were performed to disclose the factors associated with the choice of EN or LR. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was used to compare the efficacy of the two procedures.

Results

A total of 163 and 110 patients were enrolled in the EN and LR groups. Following 1:1 matching by PSM analysis, 66 patients were selected from each group. Centrally located lesions (OR: 0.131, 95% CI 0.070–0.244), tumors size > 12.1 cm (OR: 0.226, 95% CI 0.116–0.439) and multiple tumors (OR: 1.860, 95% CI 1.003–3.449) were independent factors affecting the choice of EN. There was no significant difference in the median operation time (156 vs. 195 min, P = 0.156), median blood loss (200 vs. 220 ml, P = 0.423), blood transfusion rate (33.3% vs. 33.3%, P = 1.000), mean postoperative feeding (3.1 vs. 3.3 d, P = 0.460), mean postoperative hospital stay (9.5 vs. 9.0 d, P = 0.206), or the major complication rates between the two groups.

Conclusions

Peripherally located lesions, tumors size ≤ 12.1 cm and multiple tumors were more inclined to receive EN. There was no significant difference in the efficacy of EN or LR.

Transarterial Chemoembolization Using 100-μm Drug-Eluting Microspheres in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Prospective Study and Midterm Follow-up

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of drug-eluting embolic (DEE) transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients who are ineligible for curative treatment, using doxorubicin-loaded Tandem (Varian Medical) microspheres.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between October 2015 and December 2017, 98 patients with unresectable HCC (69 males, 29 females; mean age, 60.5 ± 10.0 years of age; and American Joint Committee on Cancer [AJCC] stage ≦T3a) treated with DEE transarterial chemoembolization using 100-μm doxorubicin-loaded microspheres were enrolled prospectively. All studies were reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Dynamic contrast-enhanced computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging 1 month after treatment was used for tumor response assessment according to the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST). Outcomes included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and downstaging profile.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 21.2 months. At follow-up examinations at 0.5-, 1-, 1.5- and 2.5-year follow-up, OS rates were 93.8%, 89.5%, 79.4%, and 77.0%, respectively. Complete response (CR), partial response, stable disease, and progressive disease were noted in 50 (51.0%), 23 (23.5%), 18 (18.4%), and 7 (7.1%) patients, respectively, with 93.9% disease control rate and 74.5% objective response rate. Mean OS was 28.7 months, and mean PFS was 19.6 months. Number of nodules >3, bilobar disease, larger tumor, and higher AJCC stage correlated with worse CR. No serious adverse events occurred after DEE transarterial chemoembolization. Successful downstage rate was 73.3% (22 of 30) and number of nodules predicting successful downstaging was 7 nodules (cutoff).

CONCLUSIONS

Tandem DEE transarterial chemoembolization provides safe and effective treatment for HCC and a bridge or downstage therapy for liver transplantation.

The value of 99mTc-labeled galactosyl human serum albumin single-photon emission computerized tomography/computed tomography on regional liver function assessment and posthepatectomy failure prediction in patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

The aim was to evaluate the value of Tc-labeled galactosyl human serum albumin (Tc-GSA) with single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) in the preoperative assessment of regional liver function and prediction of posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) in patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma (hCCA).

METHODS

Patients with hCCA who underwent Tc-GSA SPECT/computed tomography (CT) before hepatectomy were included. The liver functional parameters of functional liver density (FLD) and predictive residual index (PRI) were calculated based on Tc-GSA SPECT/CT. PHLF was defined according to the International Study Group of Liver Surgery criteria. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to analyze the risk factors for PHLF. The prediction of PHLF was calculated using receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

A total of 34 patients were included, 23 of whom underwent preoperative biliary drainage. FLD was significantly higher in patients with drained lobes than that in patients with undrained lobes (0.615 ± 0.190 versus 0.500 ± 0.211, P < 0.05). Sixteen patients suffered PHLF. The ratio of future remnant to total morphological liver volume, future remnant FLD, and PRI differed significantly in patients with and without PHLF according to univariate analysis. PRI was identified as the only independent factor for prediction of PHLF according to multivariate analysis. With a PRI of 0.78, it was possible to predict PHLF with a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 93%.

CONCLUSIONS

Tc-GSA SPECT/CT can accurately assess regional liver function and is better able to predict PHLF than conventional methods in patients with hCCA.

Quantification of Functional MR Predicts Early Response in Post-doxorubicin Drug-Eluting Beads Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to assess the value of functional MRI (fMRI) of post-doxorubicin drug-eluting beads transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as an early imaging biomarker of response to therapy.

METHODS

This prospective analysis included 21 consecutive patients undergoing fMRI before and after DEB-TACE at a single medical center from January 2013 to December 2014. Functional MRI, including relative changes in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and choline levels measured at hydrogen-1 magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) of treated lesions, was recorded at baseline before DEB-TACE, and at 1, 2, and 4 weeks after DEB-TACE therapy. Assessment of tumor response was based on dynamic contrast-enhanced computer tomography imaging response according to modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors.

RESULTS

At post-therapy, 76% (n = 16) of patients demonstrated objective tumor response, 10% (n = 2) had stable disease, and 3 (14%) had progressive disease. Stable disease and progressive disease were designated as non-response. At week 2, the mean change in ADC value of responsive tumors was 0.35 ± 0.24 mm2/s, which was greater than that of non-response tumors (mean 0.01 ± 0.13 × 10-3 mm2/s) (P = 0.006). Significant differences were found in mean choline/water ratio between responsive (7.8 ± 4.9 × 10-3) and non-responsive (17.2 ± 4.9 × 10-3) tumors (P = 0.005). Composite scores of choline/water ratio and relative change of ADC showed significantly better diagnostic accuracy in non-responsive tumors than responsive tumors (area under the curve = 1.0; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Combined DWI and MRS may be used as an early imaging biomarker of therapy response in HCC patients after chemoembolization therapy.

Prediction of post-hepatectomy liver failure using gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein invasion

PURPOSE

Accurate prediction of post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is important in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aimed to retrospectively evaluate the utility of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI for predicting PHLF in patients who underwent anatomic hepatectomy for HCC with portal vein invasion.

METHODS

Forty-one patients (32 men, 9 women) were included. Hepatobiliary-phase MR images were acquired 20 min after injection of gadoxetic acid using a 3D fat-suppressed T1-weighted spoiled gradient-echo sequence. Liver-spleen ratio (LSR), remnant hepatocellular uptake index (rHUI), and HUI were calculated. The severity of PHLF was defined according to the International Study Group of Liver Surgery. Differences in LSR between the resected liver and the remnant liver, and HUI and rHUI/HUI between no/mild and severe PHLF were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test, respectively. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of severe PHLF. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of rHUI and rHUI/HUI were calculated for predicting severe PHLF.

RESULTS

Nine patients developed severe PHLF. LSR of the remnant liver was significantly higher than that of the resected liver (P < 0.001). Severe PHLF demonstrated significantly lower rHUI (P < 0.001) and rHUI/HUI (P < 0.001) compared with no/mild PHLF. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that decreased rHUI (P = 0.012, AUC=0.885) and rHUI/HUI (P = 0.002, AUC=0.852) were independent predictors of severe PHLF.

CONCLUSION

Gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI can be a promising noninvasive examination for assessing global and regional liver function, allowing estimation of the functional liver remnant and accurate prediction of severe PHLF before hepatic resection.

Systematic review on peri-operative lactate measurements to predict outcomes in patients undergoing liver resection

Lactate measurements have proven utility as a triage tool, therapeutic guide, and prognostic indicator, with broad use in Acute Care and transplantation. Its value in guiding therapy and predicting outcomes following liver resection is less well‐defined. This systematic review in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines assessed the relationship between peri‐operative lactate levels and morbidity and mortality after liver resection. Seven relevant studies comprising 2573 patients in total were identified. Six studies assessed intra‐operative or early postoperative lactate levels, one publication examined pre‐operative levels. All studies demonstrated a significant association between peri‐operative lactate levels and adverse outcomes. The influence of pre‐operative diabetes and cirrhosis on postoperative lactate levels was shown in one study each, no study assessed the association of lactate with post‐hepatectomy liver failure according to defined criteria. The heterogeneity of study measurements and end‐points precluded a meta‐analysis from being performed. Early postoperative lactate >3‐3.7 mmol/L is associated with mortality but validation of clear cut‐off levels for outcome prediction is pending. Literature suggests lactate is a useful predictive marker for outcomes post liver surgery, especially when measured in the early postoperative phase. Further research is required to standardize the use of lactate measurements in a meaningful therapeutic manner.

Future liver remnant function as a predictor of postoperative morbidity following liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma - A risk factor analysis

BACKGROUND

Advances in anaesthesia and surgical technique have considerably reduced mortality in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients undergoing liver resection. However, extended resections in patients with liver cirrhosis still represent a challenge. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive value of volume/function analysis for the prediction of morbidity in HCC patients following liver resection.

METHODS

Between 2001 and 2014, a total of 261 patients who underwent open hepatectomy for HCC were enrolled in this study. Future liver remnant volume (FLRV) and future liver remnant function (FLRF) based on LiMAx testing were obtained retrospectively. Uni- and multivariable analyses were performed to identify predictors for postoperative ascites, post-hepatectomy haemorrhage (PHH), and wound healing disorders (WHD) within the total cohort and in a subgroup of cirrhotic patients.

RESULTS

The most commonly observed complication was ascites (57.1%), followed by liver failure (25.3%), PHH (19.5%), and WHD (19.2%). FLRF was a major predictor of postoperative ascites (AUC 0.776; OR 0.987, p = 0.001), PHH (AUC 0.717; OR 0.984, p = 0.001), and WHD (AUC 0.660; OR 0.994, p = 0.032) in total cohort. Multivariable analysis of the cirrhosis subgroup showed FLRF to be an independent predictor of ascites (AUC 0.814; OR 0.989, p = 0.021), PHH (AUC 0.677; OR 0.991, p = 0.040), and WHD (AUC 0.615; OR 0.989, p = 0.033).

CONCLUSIONS

FLRF is a major predictor of postoperative ascites, haemorrhage, and wound healing disorders in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patients whereas FLRV failed to show significant correlations. Preoperative calculation of FLRF may augment surgical decision-making in high-risk patients and thereby improve perioperative outcome.

Assessment of Preoperative Liver Function for Surgical Decision Making in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have underlying liver disease and a preoperative liver function evaluation is important to avoid postoperative liver failure and death. In Western guidelines, portal hypertension (PH) is listed as a contraindication for liver resection. On the other hand, the indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min (ICG R15) has been widely used in Asian countries for surgical decision making. However, these criteria are based on reports published in the 20th century that included only a small number of patients and were developed empirically.

SUMMARY

The number of published case series concerning liver resection in HCC patients with PH has been rapidly increasing since 2011, indicating that liver resection in HCC patients with PH is now routinely performed in specialized centers worldwide. Although PH certainly has an impact and should be considered as a contraindication for major liver resection, it is no longer considered to be a contraindication for minor liver resection, especially laparoscopic liver resection. In addition, new biomarkers and imaging tools to assess preoperative liver function have been extensively reported. The combination of these new factors to well-known risk factors, such as PH and ICG R15, might strengthen the ability to stratify the risk of postoperative liver failure.

KEY MESSAGES

The present review covers recent topics regarding the assessment of preoperative liver function for surgical decision making in patients with HCC.