Specialist outreach service for on-table repair of iatrogenic bile duct injuries--a new kind of 'travelling surgeon'

Textbook outcome in patients with biliary duct injury during cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic bile duct injury (BDI) during cholecystectomy is associated with a complex and heterogeneous management owing to the burden of morbidity until their definitive treatment. This study aimed to define the textbook outcomes (TOs) after BDI with the purpose to indicate the ideal treatment and to improve it management.

METHODS

We collected data from patients with an BDI between 1990 and 2022 from 27 hospitals. TO was defined as a successful conservative treatment of the iatrogenic BDI or only minor complications after BDI or patients in whom the first repair resolves the iatrogenic BDI without complications or with minor complications.

RESULTS

We included 808 patients and a total of 394 patients (46.9%) achieved TO. Overall complications in TO and non-TO groups were 11.9% and 86%, respectively (P < .001). Major complications and mortality in the non-TO group were 57.4% and 9.2%, respectively. The use of end-to-end bile duct anastomosis repair was higher in the non-TO group (23.1 vs 7.8, P < .001). Factors associated with achieving a TO were injury in a specialized center (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.01; 95% CI, 2.68-5.99; P < .001), transfer for a first repair (aOR, 5.72; 95% CI, 3.51-9.34; P < .001), conservative management (aOR, 5.00; 95% CI, 1.63-15.36; P = .005), or surgical management (aOR, 2.45; 95% CI, 1.50-4.00; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

TO largely depends on where the BDI is managed and the type of injury. It allows hepatobiliary centers to identify domains of improvement of perioperative management of patients with BDI.

Detection and management of bile duct injury during cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Cholecystectomy represents one of the most performed surgical procedures. Bile duct injuries (BDIs) are a dangerous complication of this intervention. With the advent of the laparoscopy, the rate of BDIs showed a growing trend that was partially justified by the learning curve of this technique.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A literature search was conducted on Embase, Medline, and Cochrane databases to identify studies published up to October 2022 that analyzed the intraoperative detection and management of BDIs diagnosed during cholecystectomy.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

According to the literature, approximately 25% of BDIs is diagnosed during the laparoscopic cholecystectomy. In the clinical suspicion of BDI, an intraoperative cholangiography is performed to confirm it. Complimentary technology, such as near-infrared cholangiography, can be also adopted. Intraoperative ultrasound represents a useful tool to furtherly define the biliary and the vascular anatomy. The proper classification of the type of BDI allows to identify the correct treatment. When a good expertise in hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery is available, a direct repair is performed with good outcomes both in case of simple and complex lesions. When the local resources are limited or there is a lack of dedicated surgical experience, patient referral to a reference center shows better outcomes. In particular, complex vasculo-biliary injuries require a highly specialized treatment. The key elements to transfer the patients are a good documentation of the injury, a proper drainage of the abdomen, and an antibiotic therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

BDI management requires a proper diagnostic process and prompt treatment to reduce the morbidity and mortality of this feared complication occurring during cholecystectomy.

BILE: A Literature Review Based Novel Clinical Classification and Treatment Algorithm of Iatrogenic Bile Duct Injuries

PURPOSES

The management of patients with iatrogenic bile duct injuries (IBDI) is a challenging field, often with dismal medico legal projections. Attempts to classify IBDI have been made repeatedly and the final results were either analytical and extensive but not useful in everyday clinical practice systems, or simple and user friendly but with limited clinical correspondence approaches. The purpose of the present review is to propose a novel, clinical classification system of IBDI by reviewing the relevant literature.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted by performing bibliographic searches in the available electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library.

RESULTS

Based on the literature results, we propose a five (5) stage (A, B, C, D and E) classification system for IBDI (BILE Classification). Each stage is correlated with the recommended and most appropriate treatment. Although the proposed classification scheme is clinically oriented, the anatomical correspondence of each IBDI stage has been incorporated as well, using the Strasberg classification.

CONCLUSIONS

BILE classification represents a novel, simple, and dynamic in nature classification system of IBDI. The proposed classification focuses on the clinical consequences of IBDI and provides an action map that can appropriately guide the treatment plan.

How much is the long-term quality of life impaired in cholecystectomy-related biliary tract injury?

Objectives

Iatrogenic bile duct injury (IBDI) is a serious complication of cholecystectomy that may crucially affect long-term quality of life and have major morbidities. Furthermore, even after reconstructive surgical treatment, such injuries still reduce the long-term quality of life. Therefore, there remains a need to investigate long-term quality of life of the patients since it is considered that there is a long-term decrease in both physical and mental quality of life. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the clinical evaluations and long-term quality of life of the patients who had undergone reconstructive surgery for iatrogenic bile duct injury.

Material and Methods

This clinical study included 49 patients (38 females/11 males) with cholecystectomy-associated bile duct injury and who underwent reconstruction surgery. Several parameters, including the type of bile duct injury, reconstructive surgical procedures, length of hospital stay, and complications were evaluated. Moreover, the effects of reconstructive surgical timing (perioperative, early postoperative, late postoperative) on quality of life were assessed. Long term quality of life (LTQL) levels were evaluated using the SF-36 questionnaire in patients whose follow-ups ranged from two to nine years. The SF-36 questionnaire scores were compared to the average SF-36 norm values of the healthy Turkish population.

Results

Our results showed that 73.5% of biliary tract injuries occurred after a laparoscopic surgery while 26.5% after open cholecystectomy. Of the injuries, 32.7% developed in patients with acute cholecystitis. Thirty of the patients were treated with hepaticojejunostomy. When SF-36 questionnaire scores of the study were compared to those of the healthy Turkish population, energy-vitality was found to be lower significantly in male patients (p= 0.041). However, there was no significant deterioration in female patients. Although general health perception was better in hepaticojejunostomy according to the type of reconstructive surgery performed, no significant difference was observed in the quality of life. Mental health, energy-vitality (p= 0.019), and general health perception (p= 0.026) were found to be lower in women who had E¹ -E² injuries. Only seven of the injuries were detected perioperatively. Physical function (p= 0.033) and general health perception (p= 0.035) were found to be lower in the early postoperative treatment group in male patients in terms of the time of reconstructive surgery.

Conclusion

IBDIs cause serious morbidity. Furthermore, even after reconstructive surgical treatment, such injuries still reduce LTQL. Our results suggest that LTQL is lower, especially in male patients undergoing postoperative early biliary repair for Strasberg E³ -E⁴ type injuries.

A surgeon's framework for the unplanned intraoperative consultation

PURPOSE

Surgeons will likely be called to assist with or offer advice regarding an unanticipated intraoperative event or finding many times during their careers. Yet, there is no practical framework of how to respond to these consults nor is there any formal training in this area. The review of the limited literature and expert senior opinions can help explain the ethical components involved but does not address some of the practical aspects that the consulting surgeon may need to confront when responding to an unplanned intraoperative consultation.

METHODS

We reviewed the existing surgical literature on intraoperative consultation across surgical disciplines and interpreted it in light of our own experiences and the advice of senior surgical colleagues.

RESULTS

We present a framework for the minimum professional expectations of a surgeon responding to an intraoperative consultation.

CONCLUSION

In this manuscript, we present a selected review of the available literature on the topic, establish some of the guiding ethical principles, and offer an actionable and detailed framework that can support trainees and practicing surgeons dealing with these increasingly common and stressful unplanned circumstances.

[Bile duct repair after complete intersection]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the training period for imposing hepaticojejunostomy for bile duct repair.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Reconstructive surgery on the bile ducts was performed in 53 patients. We analyzed the learning curves based on the incidence of anastomotic leakage after hepaticojejunostomy.

RESULTS

The learning curve has a downward nature. The number of anastomotic failures decreases by 2 times after 42 procedures. Surgeon had to perform 39-42 operations to reduce the incidence of this complication.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of patients with iatrogenic intersections of the bile ducts should be provided in appropriate hospitals.

On-table hepatopancreatobiliary surgical consults for difficult cholecystectomies: A 7-year audit

BACKGROUND

Cholecystectomy is considered a general surgical operation. However, general surgeons are not trained to manage severe complications such as bile duct injury (BDI) and should refer to hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgeons when difficulty arises. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of patients who had on-table HPB consults during cholecystectomy.

METHODS

This is an audit of 50 patients who required on-table HPB consult during cholecystectomy from 2011 to 2017. Consultations were classified as "proactive" and "reactive", where consults were made before or after surgical incision, respectively. Patient demographics and perioperative details were collected.

RESULTS

The median age of the patients was 62.5 years [interquartile range (IQR) 50.8-71.3 years]. Eight (16%) patients had underlying HPB co-morbidity. Gallbladder wall was thickened in all patients (median 5 mm, IQR 4-7 mm), and common bile duct was of normal caliber in all patients (median 5 mm, IQR 4-6 mm). Median length of operation and length of stay were 165 min (IQR 124-209 min) and five days (IQR 3-7 days), respectively. Subtotal cholecystectomy was performed in 18 (36%) patients. Forty-eight patients were initially managed by laparoscopic approach, 15 (31%) required open conversion; majority (9/15, 60%) were initiated before on-table consult. Majority of referrals (98%) were reactive. Common reasons for referral included unclear anatomy or anatomical variations (30%), presence of dense adhesions and/or contracted gallbladder (18%) and impacted stones in Hartmann's pouch (16%). Three (6%) patients were referred for BDI (2 Strasberg D and 1 Strasberg E1), and two (4%) were referred for torrential bleeding from arterial injury (1 cystic artery and 1 right hepatic artery). Any morbidity and 30-day readmission were 22% and 6%, respectively. There was no 90-day mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Calling for help in BDI is obligatory, but in other instances is a personal choice. Calling for help prior to open conversion is lacking and this awareness should be raised. Whether surgical outcomes could be improved by early HPB consult needs to be determined by larger multicenter reports.

Timing of surgical repair of bile duct injuries after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The surgical management of bile duct injuries (BDIs) after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is challenging and the optimal timing of surgery remains unclear. The primary aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the evidence behind the timing of BDI repair after LC in the literature.

AIM

To assess timing of surgical repair of BDI and postoperative complications.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and The Cochrane Library databases were systematically screened up to August 2021. Risk of bias was assessed via the Newcastle Ottawa scale. The primary outcomes of this review included the timing of BDI repair and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

A total of 439 abstracts were screened, and 24 studies were included with 15609 patients included in this review. Of the 5229 BDIs reported, 4934 (94%) were classified as major injury. Timing of bile duct repair was immediate (14%, n = 705), early (28%, n = 1367), delayed (28%, n = 1367), or late (26%, n = 1286). Standardization of definition for timing of repair was remarkably poor among studies. Definitions for immediate repair ranged from < 24 h to 6 wk after LC while early repair ranged from < 24 h to 12 wk. Likewise, delayed (> 24 h to > 12 wk after LC) and late repair (> 6 wk after LC) showed a broad overlap.

CONCLUSION

The lack of standardization among studies precludes any conclusive recommendation on optimal timing of BDI repair after LC. This finding indicates an urgent need for a standardized reporting system of BDI repair.

Risk factors for anastomotic stricture after hepaticojejunostomy for bile duct injury-A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

After major bile duct injury, hepaticojejunostomy can result in good long-term patency, but anastomotic stricture is a common cause of long-term morbidity. There is a need to assimilate high-level evidence to establish risk factors for development of anastomotic stricture after hepaticojejunostomy for bile duct injury.

METHODS

A systematic review of studies reporting the rate of anastomotic stricture after hepaticojejunostomy for bile duct injury was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Meta-analyses of proposed risk factors were then performed.

RESULTS

Meta-analysis included 5 factors (n = 2,155 patients, 17 studies). Concomitant vascular injury (odds ratio 4.96; 95% confidence interval 1.92-12.86; P = .001), postrepair bile leak (odds ratio: 8.03; 95% confidence interval 2.04-31.71; P = .003), and repair by nonspecialist surgeon (odds ratio 11.29; 95% confidence interval 5.21-24.47; P < .0001) increased the rate of anastomotic stricture of hepaticojejunostomy after bile duct injury. Level of injury according to the Strasberg Grade did not significantly affect the rate of anastomotic stricture (odds ratio: 0.97; 95% confidence interval 0.45-2.10; P = .93). Owing to heterogeneity of reporting, it was not possible to perform a meta-analysis for the impact of timing of repair on anastomotic stricture rate.

CONCLUSION

The only modifiable risk factor, repair by a nonspecialist surgeon, demonstrates the importance of broad awareness of these data. Knowledge of these risk factors may permit risk stratification of follow-up, better informed consent, and understanding of prognosis.

2020 WSES guidelines for the detection and management of bile duct injury during cholecystectomy

Bile duct injury (BDI) is a dangerous complication of cholecystectomy, with significant postoperative sequelae for the patient in terms of morbidity, mortality, and long-term quality of life. BDIs have an estimated incidence of 0.4-1.5%, but considering the number of cholecystectomies performed worldwide, mostly by laparoscopy, surgeons must be prepared to manage this surgical challenge. Most BDIs are recognized either during the procedure or in the immediate postoperative period. However, some BDIs may be discovered later during the postoperative period, and this may translate to delayed or inappropriate treatments. Providing a specific diagnosis and a precise description of the BDI will expedite the decision-making process and increase the chance of treatment success. Subsequently, the choice and timing of the appropriate reconstructive strategy have a critical role in long-term prognosis. Currently, a wide spectrum of multidisciplinary interventions with different degrees of invasiveness is indicated for BDI management. These World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) guidelines have been produced following an exhaustive review of the current literature and an international expert panel discussion with the aim of providing evidence-based recommendations to facilitate and standardize the detection and management of BDIs during cholecystectomy. In particular, the 2020 WSES guidelines cover the following key aspects: (1) strategies to minimize the risk of BDI during cholecystectomy; (2) BDI rates in general surgery units and review of surgical practice; (3) how to classify, stage, and report BDI once detected; (4) how to manage an intraoperatively detected BDI; (5) indications for antibiotic treatment; (6) indications for clinical, biochemical, and imaging investigations for suspected BDI; and (7) how to manage a postoperatively detected BDI.

Safe Cholecystectomy Multi-society Practice Guideline and State of the Art Consensus Conference on Prevention of Bile Duct Injury During Cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

BDI is the most common serious complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. To address this problem, a multi-society consensus conference was held to develop evidenced-based recommendations for safe cholecystectomy and prevention of BDI.

METHODS

Literature reviews were conducted for 18 key questions across 6 broad topics around cholecystectomy directed by a steering group and subject experts from 5 surgical societies (Society of Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract, and European Association for Endoscopic Surgery). Evidence-based recommendations were formulated using the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation methodology. When evidence-based recommendations could not be made, expert opinion was documented. A number of recommendations for future research were also documented. Recommendations were presented at a consensus meeting in October 2018 and were voted on by an international panel of 25 experts with greater than 80% agreement considered consensus.

RESULTS

Consensus was reached on 17 of 18 questions by the guideline development group and expert panel with high concordance from audience participation. Most recommendations were conditional due to low certainty of evidence. Strong recommendations were made for (1) use of intraoperative biliary imaging for uncertainty of anatomy or suspicion of biliary injury; and (2) referral of patients with confirmed or suspected BDI to an experienced surgeon/multispecialty hepatobiliary team.

CONCLUSIONS

These consensus recommendations should provide guidance to surgeons, training programs, hospitals, and professional societies for strategies that have the potential to reduce BDIs and positively impact patient outcomes. Development of clinical and educational research initiatives based on these recommendations may drive further improvement in the quality of surgical care for patients undergoing cholecystectomy.

Safe cholecystectomy multi-society practice guideline and state-of-the-art consensus conference on prevention of bile duct injury during cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Bile duct injury (BDI) is the most common serious complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. To address this problem, a multi-society consensus conference was held to develop evidenced-based recommendations for safe cholecystectomy and prevention of BDI.

METHODS

Literature reviews were conducted for 18 key questions across six broad topics around cholecystectomy directed by a steering group and subject experts from five surgical societies (SAGES, AHPBA IHPBA, SSAT, and EAES). Evidence-based recommendations were formulated using the GRADE methodology. When evidence-based recommendations could not be made, expert opinion was documented. A number of recommendations for future research were also documented. Recommendations were presented at a consensus meeting in October 2018 and were voted on by an international panel of 25 experts with greater than 80% agreement considered consensus.

RESULTS

Consensus was reached on 17 of 18 questions by the Guideline Development Group (GDG) and expert panel with high concordance from audience participation. Most recommendations were conditional due to low certainty of evidence. Strong recommendations were made for (1) use of intraoperative biliary imaging for uncertainty of anatomy or suspicion of biliary injury; and (2) referral of patients with confirmed or suspected BDI to an experienced surgeon/multispecialty hepatobiliary team.

CONCLUSION

These consensus recommendations should provide guidance to surgeons, training programs, hospitals, and professional societies for strategies that have the potential to reduce BDIs and positively impact patient outcomes. Development of clinical and educational research initiatives based on these recommendations may drive further improvement in the quality of surgical care for patients undergoing cholecystectomy.

Difficult iatrogenic bile duct injuries following different types of upper abdominal surgery: report of three cases and review of literature

Background

Iatrogenic bile duct injuries (BDIs) are mostly associated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy but may also occur following gastroduodenal surgery or liver resection. Delayed diagnosis of type of injury with an ongoing biliary leak as well as the management in a non-specialized general surgical units are still the main factors affecting the outcome.

Case presentation

Herein we present three types of BDIs (Bismuth type I, IV and V) following three different types of upper abdominal surgery, ie. Billroth II gastric resection, laparoscopic cholecystectomy and left hepatectomy. All of them were complex injuries with complete bile duct transections necessitating surgical treatment. All were also very difficult to treat mainly because of a delayed diagnosis of type of injury, associated biliary leak and as a consequence severe inflammatory changes within the liver hilum. The treatment was carried out in our specialist hepatobiliary unit and first focused on infection and inflammation control with adequate biliary drainage. This was followed by a delayed surgical repair with the technique which had to be tailored to the type of injury in each case.

Conclusion

We emphasize that staged and individualized treatment strategy is often necessary in case of a delayed diagnosis of complex BDIs presenting with a biliary leak, inflammatory intraabdominal changes and infection. Referral of such patients to expert hepatobiliary centres is crucial for the outcome.

An analysis of early postoperative complications following biliary reconstruction of major bile duct injuries using the Modified Accordion and Anatomic, Timing Of and Mechanism classifications

Background

Few studies have reported patient outcome after surgical repair of bile duct injury using a standardized, validated classification system. This is the first analysis to investigate the correlation between the Anatomic, Timing Of and Mechanism classification of bile duct injury and severity of postoperative complications classified using the Modified Accordion Grading System.

Methods

Patients undergoing index hepaticojejunostomy repair of bile duct injury in laparoscopic cholecystectomy at a tertiary referral center from 1993-2018 were included. Patient demographics, geographic distance from referral center, time to referral, Anatomic, Timing Of and Mechanism classification and highest Modified Accordion Grade complication were retrieved from a prospective database. The primary outcome was determined using correlation statistics to assess the relationship between level of injury and severity of postoperative complication.

Results

One hundred and twenty-eight patients were included. There was no correlation between level of injury and severity of postoperative complication (r_s(128) = –0.113, P = .203). Seventy (54.7%) patients had an injury less than 2 cm from the hepatic duct bifurcation and 52% of patients developed a postoperative complication, most mild to moderate in severity. Geographic distance resulted in substantial delays in referral (P < .001) but did not affect complication rate (P = .523).

Conclusion

In this prospective analysis the short-term complication rate was higher than previous retrospective reports, but the distribution of the severity of complications and spectrum of injury type were similar. There was no correlation between severity of injury and postoperative complications. Geographic distance from referral center resulted in substantial differences in referral delay but had no statistically significant effect on outcome.

Repair of Bile Duct Injury With Autologous Vein Graft and Stent

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the effects of autologous vein transplant on bile duct injury repair, through observation of the hepatic and biliary system tissue morphology changes and animal survival after bile duct injury repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rabbits were equally divided into groups. Group A had cholecystectomy and common bile duct resection (length of 0.5 cm), transplant of an autologous vein (length of 0.5 cm), and stent implant. Group B had cholecystectomy and common bile duct resection (length of 1.0 cm), transplant of an autologous vein (length of 1.0 cm), and stent implant. The third group (group C) had cholecystectomy only.

RESULTS

Two rabbits died in group A and group B; all experimental animals from group C survived. Regarding liver biochemical indexes at preoperative week 1, at postoperative month 1, and at postoperative month 3, we found no significant differences (paired t test, P > .05). Liver biochemical indexes between groups were also not significantly different (P > .05). At month 3, postoperative liver pathology of experimental animals showed no significant changes and no cholestasis; biliary epithelial cells were seen in the transplant vascular.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that autologous vein graft can effectively repair bile duct injury for a short coloboma.

Liver transplantation in the treatment of severe iatrogenic liver injuries

The place of liver transplantation in the treatment of severe iatrogenic liver injuries has not yet been widely discussed in the literature. Bile duct injuries during cholecystectomy represent the leading cause of liver transplantation in this setting, while other indications after abdominal surgery are less common. Urgent liver transplantation for the treatment of severe iatrogenic liver injury may-represent a surgical challenge requiring technically difficult and time consuming procedures. A debate is ongoing on the need for centralization of complex surgery in tertiary referral centers. The early referral of patients with severe iatrogenic liver injuries to a tertiary center with experienced hepato-pancreato-biliary and transplant surgery has emerged as the best treatment of care. Despite widespread interest in the use of liver transplantation as a treatment option for severe iatrogenic injuries, reported experiences indicate few liver transplants are performed. This review analyzes the literature on liver transplantation after hepatic injury and discusses our own experience along with surgical advances and future prospects in this uncommon transplant setting.

Is your graduating general surgery resident qualified to take trauma call? A 15-year appraisal of the changes in general surgery education for trauma

BACKGROUND

Trauma training in general surgery residency is undergoing an evolution. Hour restrictions, the growth of subspecialty care, and the trend toward nonoperative management have altered resident exposure to operative trauma. We sought to identify trends in resident trauma training since the inception of the 80-hour workweek.

METHODS

The Accreditation Council for General Medical Education Case Log Statistical Reports for Surgery was abstracted for general surgery resident trauma operative volume for the years 1999-2014. Resident trauma experience (operative caseload [OC]) was compared before inception of the 80-hour workweek (1999-2002) to after the 80-hour workweek began (2003 to current).

RESULTS

A trend toward decreased operative trauma for general surgery residents was observed (mean OC [before 80-hour workweek vs. 80-hour workweek], 39,252 ± 1,065.2 cases vs. 36,065 ± 1,291.8; p = 0.06). Trauma laparotomies increased (range, 5,446-9,364 cases) with corresponding decreases in vascular trauma (4,704 to 799 cases), neck explorations (1,876 to 1,370 cases), and thoracotomies (2,507 to 2,284 cases). By comparison, an increase in vascular/integrated cases was noted (mean OC [before 80-hour workweek vs. 80-hour workweek], 845 ± 44.2 vs. 1,465 ± 88.4 cases; p < 0.01). Resident deficiencies analyzed by time period (before 80-hour workweek vs. 80-hour workweek) demonstrated deficiencies in thoracic, abdominal, solid organ, and extremity-vascular trauma domains (p < 0.01 for each). Nontrauma cases were also on the decline, specifically in open thoracic, vascular, and solid organ surgery (p < 0.05 for each). Both 1- and 2-year fellowships offset deficiencies in trauma education.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the data, an alarming number of graduates complete training with substantially less experience in defined trauma categories. Because of a decline in operative trauma volume, advanced fellowship training should be encouraged specifically for those interested in a career in trauma and acute care surgery.

The morbidity and mortality of hepaticojejunostomies for complex bile duct injuries: a multi-institutional analysis of risk factors and outcomes using NSQIP

INTRODUCTION

Bile duct injury (BDI) is an infrequent but morbid complication of cholecystectomy. High-grade BDI repairs requiring hepaticojejunostomies are complex and associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This study sought to establish the increased risk associated with complex bile duct repair at a multi-institutional level in the United States.

METHODS

Using the ACS-NSQIP Participant Use File, all patients who underwent a hepaticojejunostomy for bile duct repair between 2005 and 2012 were identified. Clinical data, perioperative risk factors and morbidity and mortality rates were calculated.

RESULTS

Of the 293 BDI patients, 102 (65.2%) were female and the mean age was 49.8 years. The 30-day morbidity and mortality rates were 26.3% and 2%, respectively. Univariable analysis identified male gender, ASA class, functional status, diabetes, hypertension and chronic steroid use to be associated with increased morbidity. A higher ASA class was associated with increased postoperative sepsis and chronic steroid use was associated with increased overall morbidity on multivariable analysis. The morbidity rates for BDI repair within 30 days of injury vs. later repair were similar (24% vs. 23%), but the mortality rate was higher for the earlier repair group (5% vs. 0%, p = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Within the largest multi-institutional analysis of 30-day outcomes after hepaticojejunostomies for BDI in the US, morbidity and mortality rates were established at 26.3% and 2% respectively. ASA class and preoperative functional status remain the main risk factors for surgery. Earlier repair in the face of ongoing sepsis and disability is associated with worse outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach at a specialized center aimed at controlling infection and improving functional status prior to surgical reconstruction is recommended.

Management of a pseudo-aneurysm in the hepatic artery after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Introduction Symptomatic hepatic-artery pseudoaneurysm (HAP) after bile-duct injury (BDI) is a rare complication with a varied (but clinically urgent) presentation. Methods A prospectively maintained database of all patients with BDI at laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) referred to a tertiary specialist hepatobiliary centre between 1992 and 2011 was searched systematically to identify patients with a symptomatic HAP. Care and outcome of these patients was studied. Results Eight (6 men) of 236 patients with BDI (3.4%) with a median age of 65 (range: 54?6) years presented with symptomatic HAP. Median time of presentation of the HAP from the index LC was 31 (range: 13?16) days. Bleeding was the dominant presentation in 7 patients. One patient presented late (>2 years) with abdominal pain alone. Computed tomography angiography was the most useful investigation. Angioembolisation was successful in 7 patients. One patient died, and another patient developed liver infarction. Three patients (38%) developed biliary strictures after embolisation. Seven patients are alive and well at a median follow-up of 66 months. Conclusions Presentation of HAP is often delayed. A high index of suspicion is necessary for the diagnosis. Computed tomography angiography is the first-line investigation and selective angioembolisation can yield successful outcomes.

Prevention and acute management of biliary injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Expert consensus statement

Gallstone disease is very common and laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures all over the world. Parallel to the increase in the number of laparoscopic cholecystectomies, bile duct injuries also increased. The reported incidence of bile duct injuries ranges from 0.3% to 1.4%. Many of the bile duct injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomy are not due to inexperience, but are the result of basic technical failures and misinterpretations. A working group of expert hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons, an endoscopist, and a specialist of forensic medicine study searched and analyzed the publications on safe cholecystectomy and biliary injuries complicating laparoscopic cholecystectomy under the organization of Turkish Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Association. After a series of e-mail communications and two conferences, the expert panel developed consensus statements for safe cholecystectomy, management of biliary injuries and medicolegal issues. The panel concluded that iatrogenic biliary injury is an overwhelming complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and an important issue in malpractice claims. Misidentification of the biliary system is the major cause of biliary injuries. To avoid this, the "critical view of safety" technique should be employed in all the cases. If biliary injury is identified intraoperatively, reconstruction should only be performed by experienced hepatobiliary surgeons. In the postoperative period, any deviation from the expected clinical course of recovery should alert the surgeon about the possibility of biliary injury.

Bile duct injury repair —— earlier is not better

Bile duct injury is a common complication of cholecystectomy. The timing of bile duct injury repair remains controversial. A recent review conducted in France reported 39% complications and 64% failure after immediate repair in 194 patients compared with 14% complications and 8%failure after late repair in 133 patients. A national review of 139 consecutive early repairs conducted at five hepatopancreaticobiliary centers in Denmark reported 4% mortality, 36% morbidity, and 42 restrictures (30%) at a median follow-up of 102 months, and only 64 patients (46%) demonstrated uneventful short-term and long-term outcomes. Most patients with bile duct injury present with bile leak and sepsis; thus, early repair is not recommended. Percutaneous drainage of bile and endoscopic stenting are the mainstays of treatment of bile leak because they convert acute bile duct injury into a controlled external biliary fistula. The ensuing benign biliary stricture should be repaired by a biliary surgeon after a delay of 4–6 weeks once the external biliary fistula has closed.

Bile duct injuries after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: 11-year experience in a tertiary center

Incidence of bile duct injuries (BDI) is low but remains a dramatic complication after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). This study aimed to assess BDI incidence and management strategies. All patients treated in our institution for BDI after LC between 2000 and 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients referred from others centers were excluded. Strasberg classification was used to determine the type of lesion. Thirteen patients presented iatrogenic BDI among 2,840 consecutive cholecystectomies performed (0.46%). Four cases were classified Strasberg type A, 4 type D, and 5 type E. Injury was recognized intraoperatively in 6 cases (46%). Three of these 6 required conversions to open surgery and all but one were primary sutured on a drain; the remaining patient required immediate biliodigestive anastomosis. In 7 patients, the injury was discovered postoperatively (54%). Among them, one was treated by direct closure of a cystic leak through immediate re-laparoscopy. Six underwent initially main bile duct stenting, but 4 required delayed secondary surgery (mean time 115 days), 2 to improve bile duct drainage and 2 for biliodigestive derivation. BDI incidence remains low but management depends on the time of diagnosis. BDI are complex and require tailored treatment usually in a tertiary center for a multidisciplinary approach.

Prognostication of Learning Curve on Surgical Management of Vasculobiliary Injuries after Cholecystectomy

Background. Concomitant vascular injury might adversely impact outcomes after iatrogenic bile duct injury (IBDI). Whether a new HPB center should embark upon repair of complex biliary injuries with associated vascular injuries during learning curve is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine outcome of surgical management of IBDI with and without vascular injuries in a new HPB center during its learning curve. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent surgical management of IBDI at our center. A total of 39 patients were included. Patients without (Group 1) and with vascular injuries (Group 2) were compared. Outcome was defined as 90-day morbidity and mortality. Results. Median age was 39 (20-80) years. There were 10 (25.6%) vascular injuries. E2 injuries were associated significantly with high frequency of vascular injuries (66% versus 15.1%) (P = 0.01). Right hepatectomy was performed in three patients. Out of these, two had a right hepatic duct stricture and one patient had combined right arterial and portal venous injury. The number of patients who developed postoperative complications was not significantly different between the two groups (11.1% versus 23.4%) (P = 0.6). Conclusion. Learning curve is not a negative prognostic variable in the surgical management of iatrogenic vasculobiliary injuries after cholecystectomy.

Iatrogenic biliary injuries: multidisciplinary management in a major tertiary referral center

Background. Iatrogenic biliary injuries are considered as the most serious complications during cholecystectomy. Better outcomes of such injuries have been shown in cases managed in a specialized center. Objective. To evaluate biliary injuries management in major referral hepatobiliary center. Patients & Methods. Four hundred seventy-two consecutive patients with postcholecystectomy biliary injuries were managed with multidisciplinary team (hepatobiliary surgeon, gastroenterologist, and radiologist) at major Hepatobiliary Center in Egypt over 10-year period using endoscopy in 232 patients, percutaneous techniques in 42 patients, and surgery in 198 patients. Results. Endoscopy was very successful initial treatment of 232 patients (49%) with mild/moderate biliary leakage (68%) and biliary stricture (47%) with increased success by addition of percutaneous (Rendezvous technique) in 18 patients (3.8%). However, surgery was needed in 198 patients (42%) for major duct transection, ligation, major leakage, and massive stricture. Surgery was urgent in 62 patients and elective in 136 patients. Hepaticojejunostomy was done in most of cases with transanastomotic stents. There was one mortality after surgery due to biliary sepsis and postoperative stricture in 3 cases (1.5%) treated with percutaneous dilation and stenting. Conclusion. Management of biliary injuries was much better with multidisciplinary care team with initial minimal invasive technique to major surgery in major complex injury encouraging early referral to highly specialized hepatobiliary center.

Postcholecystectomy bile duct injury and its sequelae: pathogenesis, classification, and management

A bile duct injury sustained during cholecystectomy can change the life of patients who submit themselves to a seemingly innocuous surgery. It has far-reaching medical, socioeconomic, and legal ramifications. Attention to detail, proper interpretation of variant anatomy, use of intraoperative cholangiography, and conversion to an open procedure in cases of difficulty can avoid/lessen the impact of some of these injuries. Once suspected, the aims of investigation are to establish the type and extent of injury and to plan the timing and mode of intervention. The principles of treatment are to control sepsis and to establish drainage of all liver segments with minimum chances of restricturing. Availability of expertise, morbidity, mortality, and quality of life issues dictate the modality of treatment chosen. Endoscopic intervention is the treatment of choice for minor leaks and provides outcomes comparable to surgery in selected patients with lateral injuries and partial strictures. A Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) by a specialist surgeon is the gold standard for high strictures, complete bile duct transection and has been shown to provide excellent long-term outcomes. Percutaneous intervention is invaluable in draining bile collections and is useful in treating post-HJ strictures. Combined biliovascular injuries, segmental atrophy, and secondary biliary cirrhosis with portal hypertension are special circumstances which are best managed by a multidisciplinary team at an experienced center for optimal outcomes.

Impact of routine intraoperative cholangiography during laparoscopic cholecystectomy on bile duct injury

BACKGROUND

The role of intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) in the diagnosis, prevention and management of bile duct injury (BDI) remains controversial. The aim of the present study was to determine the value of routine IOC in the diagnosis and management of BDI sustained during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) at a high-volume centre.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a single-institution database was performed. Patients who underwent LC with routine IOC between October 1991 and May 2012 were included.

RESULTS

Among 11,423 consecutive LCs IOC was performed successfully in 95.7 per cent of patients. No patient had IOC-related complications. Twenty patients (0.17 per cent) sustained a BDI during LC, and the diagnosis was made during surgery in 18 patients. Most BDIs were type D according to the Strasberg classification. The sensitivity of IOC for the detection of BDI was 79 per cent; specificity was 100 per cent. All injuries diagnosed during surgery were repaired during the same surgical procedure. Two patients developed early biliary strictures that were treated by percutaneous dilatation and a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy with satisfactory long-term results.

CONCLUSION

The routine use of IOC during LC in a high-volume teaching centre was associated with a low incidence of BDI, and facilitated detection and repair during the same surgical procedure with a good outcome.

Intraoperative management and repair of bile duct injuries sustained during 10,123 laparoscopic cholecystectomies in a high-volume referral center

BACKGROUND

Bile duct injury (BDI) remains the most serious complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). The best strategy in terms of timing of repair is still controversial. The purpose of the current study is to review the experience in the intraoperative repair of bile duct injuries sustained during LC at a high-volume referral center.

STUDY DESIGN

Single-institution retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database. Patients with diagnosis of BDI sustained during LC between October 1991 and November 2010 were extracted.

RESULTS

Among 10,123 LC performed during the study period, 19 patients had a BDI sustained during the procedure. Intraoperative cholangiography was routinely used. Bile duct injury was diagnosed intraoperatively in 17 patients (89.4%). Mean age was 56.4 years (range 18 to 81 years) and 15 patients were women (88%). According to the Strasberg classification of BDI, there were 3 type C lesions, 12 type D lesions, and 2 type E2 lesions. There were no associated vascular injuries. Twelve cases (71%) were converted to open surgery. The repairs included 10 primary biliary closures, 4 Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomies, 2 end to end anastomosis, and 1 laparoscopic transpapillary drainage. Postoperative complications occurred in 5 patients (29.4%). During the follow-up period, early biliary strictures developed in 2 patients (11.7%) and were treated by percutaneous dilation and a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy with satisfactory long-term results.

CONCLUSIONS

The current series represents one of the largest single-center experiences in terms of intraoperative repair of BDI sustained during LC. The results suggest that a high level of intraoperative diagnosis is possible, where intraoperative cholangiography is a useful tool. The intraoperative repair of BDI sustained during LC by experienced hepatobiliary surgeons either by open or laparoscopic approach appears of paramount importance to assure optimal results.

Is liver transplantation using organs donated after cardiac death cost-effective or does it decrease waitlist death by increasing recipient death?

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness in liver transplantation (LT) of utilizing organs donated after cardiac death (DCD) compared with organs donated after brain death (DBD).

METHODS

A Markov-based decision analytic model was created to compare two LT waitlist strategies distinguished by organ type: (i) DBD organs only, and (ii) DBD and DCD organs. The model simulated outcomes for patients over 10 years with annual cycles through one of four health states: survival; ischaemic cholangiopathy; retransplantation, and death. Baseline values and ranges were determined from an extensive literature review. Sensitivity analyses tested model strength and parameter variability.

RESULTS

Overall survival is decreased, and biliary complications and retransplantation are increased in recipients of DCD livers. Recipients of DBD livers gained 5.6 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) at a cost of US$69 000/QALY, whereas recipients on the DBD + DCD LT waitlist gained 6.0 QALYs at a cost of US$61 000/QALY. The DBD + DCD organ strategy was superior to the DBD organ-only strategy.

CONCLUSIONS

The extension of life and quality of life provided by DCD LT to patients on the waiting list who might otherwise not receive a liver transplant makes the continued use of DCD livers cost-effective.

Management of Bile Duct Injury at Various Stages of Presentation: Experience from a Tertiary Care Centre

The clinical presentation, management and outcome of all patients with bile duct injury who presented to our tertiary care centre at various stages after cholecystectomy were analyzed. The patients were categorized into three groups: group A-patients in whom the injury was detected during cholecystectomy, group B-patients who presented within 2 weeks of cholecystectomy and group C-patients who presented after 2 weeks of cholecystectomy. Our team acted as rescue surgeons and performed 'on-table' repair for injuries occurring in another unit or in another hospital. Strasberg classification of bile duct injury was followed. In group A, partial and complete transections were managed by repair over T-tube and high hepaticojejunostomy, respectively. Patients in group B underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiogram and/or magnetic resonance cholangiogram to evaluate the biliary tree. Those with intact common bile duct underwent endoscopic papillotomy and stenting in addition to drainage of intra-abdominal collection when present. For those with complete transection, early repair was considered if there was no sepsis. In presence of intra-abdominal sepsis an attempt was made to create controlled external biliary fistula. This was followed by hepatico jejunostomy at least after 3 months. Group C patients underwent hepaticojejunostomy at least 6 weeks after the injury. The outcome was graded into three categories: grade A-no clinical symptoms, normal LFT; grade B-no clinical symptoms, mild derangement of LFT or occasional episodes of pain or fever; grade C-pain, cholangitis and abnormal LFT; grade D-surgical revision or dilatation required. Fifty nine patients were included in the study and the distribution was group A-six patients, group B-33 patients and group C-20 patients. In group A, one patient with complete transection of the right hepatic duct (type C) and partial injury to left hepatic duct (LHD) underwent right hepaticojejunostomy and repair of the LHD over stent. Two patients with type D and three patients with type E 2 injury underwent repair over T-tube and hepaticojejunostomy, respectively. In group B, all except one of the 18 patients with type A injury underwent endoscopic papillotomy and stenting. The bile leak subsided at a mean interval of 8 days in all, except one patient who died of fulminant sepsis. Of the 15 patients with type E injury, five underwent hepaticojejunostomy after a minimum gap of 3 months. Early repair was considered in 10 patients. Twenty patients in group C underwent hepaticojejunostomy. In a mean follow-up of 40 months, the outcome was grade A in 54 patients, grade B in three patients (one from each of the three groups) and grade D in one patient (group C). The latter patient with a type E3 injury developed recurrent stricture and cholangitis necessitating percutaneous transhepatic dilatation. The high success rate of bile duct repair in the present study can be attributed to the appropriate timing, meticulous technique and the tertiary care experience.

Risk factors for litigation following major transectional bile duct injury sustained at laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Bile duct injuries after laparoscopic cholecystectomy often cause long-term morbidity, with a number of patients resorting to litigation. The present study aimed to analyze risk factors for litigation and to quantify the subsequent medicolegal burden.

METHODS

A total of 67/106 patients (26 male) with major laparoscopic cholecystectomy bile duct injuries (LCBDI) and a minimum 2-year follow-up, replied to a questionnaire covering patient perception toward the complication, physical/psychological recovery, and subsequent litigation. These data were collated with prospectively collected data related to the LCBDI and subsequent management, and a multivariate regression model was designed to identify potential risk factors associated with litigation.

RESULTS

Most patients felt they had been inadequately informed prior to surgery [47/67 (70%)] and after the LCBDI [50/67 (75%)], and a majority remained psychologically traumatized at the time of evaluation [50/67 (75%)]. Of these, 22 patients had started litigation by means of a "letter of demand" (LOD; n = 10) or prosecution (n = 12). Nineteen (19/22%) cases have been closed in favor of the plaintiff. There was no difference between the awards for LOD versus prosecution cases, and average compensation was £40,800 versus £89,875, respectively (p = n.s). On multivariate analysis, age < 52 years (p = 0.03), associated vascular injury (p = 0.014), immediate nonspecialist repair (p = 0.009), and perceived incomplete recovery following LCBDI (p = 0.017) were identified as independent predictors for possible litigation.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of the present study, nearly one third of patients with major transectional LCBDI are likely to resort to litigation. Younger patients and those in whom repair is attempted prior to specialist referral are likely to initiate litigation.

Treatment of Biliary Complications after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

The incidence of iatrogenic bile duct injury remains high despite increased awareness of the problem. This major complication following laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has a significant impact on patient's well-being and even survival despite seemingly adequate therapy. The management of bile duct injury (BDI) includes education to avoid the insult, proper and early diagnosis and preferably early treatment. It is of utmost importance to involve experienced hepatobiliary surgeon early enough to perform corrective reconstruction or to plan other therapies with a multidisciplinary team including interventional radiologist and advanced endoscopist. The selection of correct therapy at the earliest possible phase has significant effect on patient outcome. The treatment options are surgery and endoscopy, either immediately or delayed.

By constant and continuous analysis of the problem and information to the surgical community it should be possible to decrease the prevalence of iatrogenic BDI and even to avoid it.

Surgical management and outcome of bile duct injuries following cholecystectomy: a single-center experience

PURPOSE

Biliary injury is a severe complication of cholecystectomy. The Hepp-Couinaud reconstruction with the hepatic duct confluence and the left duct may offer best long-term outcome as long as the confluence remains intact (Bismuth I-III). Complex liver surgery is usually indicated in most proximal (Bismuth IV) injuries in non-cirrhotic patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical treatment and outcome of bile duct injuries managed in a referral hepatobiliary unit.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed surgical management and outcome of biliary injuries following cholecystectomy in 35 patients (27 laparoscopic) referred to our center between June 2001 and December 2009. There was no liver cirrhosis diagnosed in any patient. High injuries (Bismuth III-IV) were found in 14 patients. Management after referral included the Hepp-Couinaud hepaticojejunostomy in 32 patients with Bismuth I-III injuries, which in four cases with biliary peritonitis was preceded by abdominal lavage and prolonged external biliary drainage. Liver transplantation was performed in two patients with Bismuth IV injuries.

RESULTS

After median follow-up of 59 months (range, 6-102), 34 (97%) patients are alive and 32 (92%) remain in good general condition with normal liver function. One patient who had combined biliary and colonic injury died of sepsis before repair. Recurrent strictures following the Hepp-Couinaud repair developed in two (6%) patients with high injuries combined with right hepatic arterial injury.

CONCLUSION

The Hepp-Couinaud hepaticojejunostomy offers durable results, even after previous interventions have failed. In case of diffuse biliary peritonitis, delayed biliary reconstruction following external biliary drainage may be the best option.

An analytical review of vasculobiliary injury in laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy

OBJECTIVES

Biliary injuries are frequently accompanied by vascular injuries, which may worsen the bile duct injury and cause liver ischemia. We performed an analytical review with the aim of defining vasculobiliary injury and setting out the important issues in this area.

METHODS

A literature search of relevant terms was performed using OvidSP. Bibliographies of papers were also searched to obtain older literature.

RESULTS

 Vasculobiliary injury was defined as: an injury to both a bile duct and a hepatic artery and/or portal vein; the bile duct injury may be caused by operative trauma, be ischaemic in origin or both, and may or may not be accompanied by various degrees of hepatic ischaemia. Right hepatic artery (RHA) vasculobiliary injury (VBI) is the most common variant. Injury to the RHA likely extends the biliary injury to a higher level than the gross observed mechanical injury. VBI results in slow hepatic infarction in about 10% of patients. Repair of the artery is rarely possible and the overall benefit unclear. Injuries involving the portal vein or common or proper hepatic arteries are much less common, but have more serious effects including rapid infarction of the liver.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine arteriography is recommended in patients with a biliary injury if early repair is contemplated. Consideration should be given to delaying repair of a biliary injury in patients with occlusion of the RHA. Patients with injuries to the portal vein or proper or common hepatic should be emergently referred to tertiary care centers.

An analytical review of vasculobiliary injury in laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy

OBJECTIVES

Biliary injuries are frequently accompanied by vascular injuries, which may worsen the bile duct injury and cause liver ischemia. We performed an analytical review with the aim of defining vasculobiliary injury and setting out the important issues in this area.

METHODS

A literature search of relevant terms was performed using OvidSP. Bibliographies of papers were also searched to obtain older literature.

RESULTS

 Vasculobiliary injury was defined as: an injury to both a bile duct and a hepatic artery and/or portal vein; the bile duct injury may be caused by operative trauma, be ischaemic in origin or both, and may or may not be accompanied by various degrees of hepatic ischaemia. Right hepatic artery (RHA) vasculobiliary injury (VBI) is the most common variant. Injury to the RHA likely extends the biliary injury to a higher level than the gross observed mechanical injury. VBI results in slow hepatic infarction in about 10% of patients. Repair of the artery is rarely possible and the overall benefit unclear. Injuries involving the portal vein or common or proper hepatic arteries are much less common, but have more serious effects including rapid infarction of the liver.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine arteriography is recommended in patients with a biliary injury if early repair is contemplated. Consideration should be given to delaying repair of a biliary injury in patients with occlusion of the RHA. Patients with injuries to the portal vein or proper or common hepatic should be emergently referred to tertiary care centers.

Medicolegal claims following laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the UK and Ireland

INTRODUCTION

The causes and outcomes of medicolegal claims following laparoscopic cholecystectomy were evaluated.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the experience of a consultant surgeon acting as an expert witness within the UK and Ireland (1990-2007).

RESULTS

A total of 151 claims were referred for an opinion. Sixty-three related to bile duct injuries and four followed major vascular injury. Bowel injury resulted in 17 claims. A postoperative biliary leak not associated with a bile duct injury was responsible for 25 claims. Other reasons for claims included spilled gallstones, port-site herniae, haemorrhage and other recognised complications associated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Twelve of the claims are on-going, two went to trial, 79 (52%) were settled out of court and 58 (38%) were discontinued after the claimants were advised that they were unlikely to win their case. Disclosed settlement amounts are reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Bile duct and major vascular injuries are almost indefensible. The delay in diagnosis and (mis)management of other recognised complications following laparoscopic cholecystectomy have also led to a significant number of successful medicolegal claims.

A reaudit of specialist-managed liver trauma after establishment of regional referral and management guidelines

BACKGROUND

An earlier liver trauma audit (52 patients) noted that 50% were surgically managed at referring hospitals with a high morbidity and mortality, after which a regional referral and management algorithm was implemented in 2001. This study aims to reaudit specialist-managed liver trauma outcomes.

METHODS

Prospective analysis of 99 patients (68 male) treated for liver injury (LI) between 2001 and 2008. Patient characteristics, management, and outcome results of these were compared with the results of previous audit. LI severity was determined by computed tomography, operative findings, and classified according to liver Organ Injury Scale.

RESULTS

As implementation of guidelines, referrals increased from 5.2 patients/yr to 14.1 patients/yr, while LI profile was unchanged. Fewer patients were managed surgically with lower surgical intervention at referring hospitals (26 of 52 [50%] vs. 29 of 77 [38%]; p = 0.2). There has been a decrease in liver resection rates (14 of 26 [54%] vs. 3 of 37 [8%]; p = 0.0001]), overall mortality rate (12 of 52 [23%] vs. 11 of 99 [11%]; p = 0.059), and postoperative deaths.

CONCLUSION

This reaudit confirms the role of nonoperative management of liver trauma. Early use of computed tomography scan with specialist discussion, selective use of perihepatic packing, and transfer to a specialist unit should be standard practice in the management of complex liver trauma.