[Minimally invasive adrenalectomy – Operative and perioperative results of transperitoneal and retroperitoneal adrenalectomies performed at the University of Szeged Department of Surgery during 23 years]

Aim. Our goal was to evaluate operative and perioperative data of retroperitoneal (RP) and transperitoneal (TP) adrenalectomies performed at the University of Szeged Department of Surgery. Patients and method. During a retrospective cohort study including 174 adrenalectomies (28 RP; 146 TP) performed between 1998 and 2021, the following parameters were evaluated: rate of previous abdominal surgeries, conversion rate, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, tumor size, histology, hospital stay, early and late complications. Results. With significantly higher rate of previous abdominal surgeries [TP vs RP: 68 (46.57%) vs 4 (14%) P = 0.0021], there was no markable difference in conversion rate [TP vs RP: 7 (4.79%) vs 5 (18%), P = 0.312]. Significantly larger tumours were removed with TP (TP vs RP: 58.05 vs 34.8 mm, P = 0.016), with no markable difference in intraoperative blood loss (TP vs RP: 67.85 vs 50.2 ml, P = 0.157). Operative time was significantly shorter in TP (TP vs RP: 86.3 vs 134.5 min; P = 0.024). The most frequent histology was adenoma (TP vs RP: n = 95; 65.06% vs 64.3%). Pheochromocytoma occurred in 11 (7.53%) and 5 (17.8%) cases in TP and RP, respectively. We found no significant difference in hospital stay (TP vs RP: 5.125 vs 4.61 day; P = 0.413). Five- and 2 cases of early complications were seen in TP (splenic injury, postoperative fever, severe intraoperative bleeding, severe hypokalemia, surgical site infection) and RP (2 severe intraoperative bleeding), respectively. One lethal case of ventricular fibrillation and one delayed complication (postoperative abdominal wall hernia) were observed in TP. Conclusions. Both TP and RP are safe and simply reproducible minimally invasive techniques. According to our observation, RP adrenalectomy seems to be reserved for smaller lesions, while TP proves to be successful in removing enlarged and also malignant lesions with significantly shorter operative time.

[Short term results of the FLOT neoadjuvant therapy on the surgical management of advanced gastro-oesophageal junction adenocarcinoma]

Introduction. Recently the therapeutic treatment for advanced, stage T2-T4 gastro-oesophageal junction cancer and those adjacent to the regional lymph nodes involves neoadjuvant chemotherapy with subsequent surgical intervention. Method. Neoadjuvant oncological treatment for gastro-oesophageal junction cancer previously consisted of the intravenous administration of epirubicin, cisplatin and fluorouracil (ECF) or epirubicin, cisplatin and capecitabine (ECX) combination (Group I). In the course of the new protocol (FLOT-, F: 5-FU, L: leucovorin, O: oxaliplatin, T: docetaxel), patients were included with resectable gastro-oesophageal junction cancer who had a clinical-stage cT2 or higher nodal positive cN+ disease (Group II). Between 31st of December 2013 and 1st of June 2021 we retrospectively analyzed the effect of these FLOT oncological protocols in terms of surgical outcomes in cases of T2-T4 tumors (n = 9). We compared the results of the randomly assigned nine patients from earlier ECF/ECX protocol (Group I). We analyzed the effect of the different neoadjuvant therapy on tumor regression, and evaluated the types of possible side effects, type of surgery, and the oncological radicality of surgical procedures (number of removed regional lymph nodes, resection margins). Results. Comparing the two groups we found that in cases of FLOT neoadjuvant chemotherapy complete regression was achieved significantly a higher number like in earlier ECX/ECF therapy. Furthermore, the average number of removed lymph nodes, and the safety resection margins (distal, circumferential) no significant difference was found between the two groups. Neutropenia was the most frequently encountered side effect. Leukopenia, neutropenia and nausea occurred more frequently in cases of the old protocol (Group I). Conclusions. As a result of the FLOT neoadjuvant oncological protocol for advanced gastro-oesophageal junction cancer, the number of cases with complete tumor regression has significantly increased. The present results strongly suggest a significant advantage in favor of FLOT neoadjuvant treatment following surgery. The prevalence of side effects was also appreciably lower in cases of the FLOT protocol.

Surgical outcome of percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage in acute cholecystitis: Ten years' experience at a tertiary care centre

Background

Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PTGBD) plays an important role in the treatment of elderly patients and/or patients in poor health with acute cholecystitis (AC). The primary aim of this study is to determine how these factors influence the clinical outcome of PTGBD. Moreover, we assessed the timing and results of subsequent cholecystectomies.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively examined the results of 162 patients undergoing PTGBD between 2010 and 2020 (male–female ratio: 51.23% vs. 48.77%; mean age: 71.43 ± 13.22 years). Patient’s performance status and intervention outcomes were assessed with clinical success rates (CSR) and in-hospital mortality. The conversion rate (CR) of possible urgent or delayed, elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LC) after PTGBD were analysed.

Results

PTGBD was the definitive treatment in 42.18% of patients, while it was a bridging therapy prior to cholecystectomy (CCY) for the other patients. CSR was 87.97%, it was only 64.29% in grade III AC. In 9.87% of the cases, urgent LC was necessary after PTGBD, and its conversion rate was approximately equal to that of elective LC (18.18 vs. 17.46%, respectively, p = 0.2217). Overall, the post-PTGBD in-hospital mortality was 11.72%, while the same figure was 0% for grade I AC, 7.41% for grade II and 40.91% for grade III. Based on logistic regression analyses, in-hospital mortality (OR 6.07; CI 1.79–20.56), clinical progression (OR 7.62; CI 2.64–22.05) and the need for emergency CCY (OR 14.75; CI 3.07–70.81) were mostly determined by AC severity grade.

Conclusion

PTGBD is an easy-to-perform intervention with promising clinical success rates in the treatment of acute cholecystitis. After PTGBD, the level of gallbladder inflammation played a decisive role in the course of AC. In a severe, grade III inflammation, we have to consider low CSR and high mortality.

Evaluation of the conversion rate as it relates to preoperative risk factors and surgeon experience: a retrospective study of 4013 patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background

Our aim is to determine the relationships among patient demographics, patient history, surgical experience, and conversion rate (CR) during elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LCs).

Methods

We analyzed data from patients who underwent LC surgery between 2005 and 2014 based on patient charts and electronic documentation. CR (%) was evaluated in 4013 patients who underwent elective LC surgery. The relationships between certain predictive factors (patient demographics, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), acute cholecystitis (AC), abdominal surgery in the patient history, as well as surgical experience) and CR were examined by univariate analysis and logistic regression.

Results

In our sample (N = 4013), the CR was 4.2%. The CR was twice as frequent among males than among females (6.8 vs. 3.2%, p < 0.001), and the chance of conversion increased from 3.4 to 5.9% in patients older than 65 years. The detected CR was 8.8% in a group of patients who underwent previous ERCP (8.8 vs. 3.5%, p < 0.001). From the ERCP indications, most often, conversion was performed because of severe biliary tract obstruction (CR: 9.3%). LC had to be converted to open surgery after upper and lower abdominal surgeries in 18.8 and 4.8% cases, respectively. Both AC and ERCP in the patient history raised the CR (12.3%, p < 0.001 and 8.8%, p < 0.001). More surgical experience and high surgery volume were not associated with a lower CR prevalence.

Conclusions

Patient demographics (male gender and age > 65 years), previous ERCP, and upper abdominal surgery or history of AC affected the likelihood of conversion. More surgical experience and high surgery volume were not associated with a lower CR prevalence.

Contemporary management strategies of blunt tracheobronchial injuries

BACKGROUND

Tracheobronchial injuries are rare but feasibly life-threatening conditions. A prompt diagnosis and early management can be lifesaving. Due to the unspecific symptoms and indirect radiological signs the diagnosis often delays.

OBJECTIVES

We present a short series of patients suffering from tracheobronchial airway laceration. All the three patients had blunt thoracic or neck trauma and showed early signs of tracheobronchial injury. In the first case a 44-year-old woman was crushed by a bus. Subcutaneous emphysema, pneumothorax on chest computed tomography and hypoxaemia despite of chest tube suggested the presence of an airway injury. During operation a 4-cm-long tear of the trachea and a complete transection of the right main bronchus were found. In the second case a 12-year-old girl was crossed by a truck trailer. Early signs were respiratory failure, extended subcutaneous emphysema, blood clot in the larynx, pneumothorax on both sides. Chest CT showed pneumomediastinum. During the operation a longitudinal laceration was found separating the two main bronchi at the bifurcation. In the third case a 9-year-old boy was injured in a car accident, when the seat-belt crossed his neck. Spreading subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum and an overinflated endotracheal tube's cuff were found on CT. A completely transected trachea between the first and second tracheal rings was found. All three patients required fast intubation and bronchoscopic examination to confirm the diagnosis, and to identify the site of lacerations. All the patients underwent primary reconstruction and recovered successfully.

CONCLUSIONS

In case of suspected tracheobronchial injury, a high index of suspicion is required for early diagnosis. Most commonly respiratory distress, subcutaneous emphysema and pneumothorax are found on physical examination. Prompt intubation below the site of the injury and early laryngo- or bronchoscopic examination have priority, as we did in our cases. A primary anastomosis is required with minimal resection during urgent operation. A better outcome is to be expected when extubation is done early after surgery. We offer ordinal steps that should be taken to lead to a prompt management and good long-term outcome based on the literature and our experiences.

Successful surgical treatment of a rare, large adrenal hemangioma

Összefoglaló. A mellékvese-haemangiomák ritkán előforduló, nehezen diagnosztizálható elváltozások, melyek sebészi eltávolítása gyakran nagy fokú technikai jártasságot igényel. Vizsgálatunkban egy 69 éves nőbeteg esetét ismertetjük, akinél fogyás és hypertonia miatt végzett kivizsgálás mellékvesecisztát feltételezett, valamint felvetette adrenocorticalis carcinoma jelenlétét. A preoperatív kivizsgálás során (CT és MRI) a felmerülő malignitás miatt sebészi eltávolítás vált szükségessé. A kezdeti laparoszkópos transperitonealis technikát követően a bonyolult elhelyezkedés, illetve vérzés miatt kis méretű, paramedián metszésből konvertáltunk, és bal oldali nyitott adrenalectomiát végeztünk, valamint a vese caudalis részéről egy folyadéktartalmú képletet távolítottunk el. A szövettani feldolgozás a vese középső harmadának magasságából reszekált cisztát, valamint a cranialis lokalizációról eltávolított, ritka előfordulású mellékvese-haemangiomát igazolt. A ritkán előforduló és többnyire bizonytalan preoperatív diagnózissal bíró mellékvese-haemangiomák sebészi eltávolítása nagy méretük, kompresszióra való hajlamuk, valamint malignitást utánzó megjelenésük miatt is indokolt. A laparoszkópos transperitonealis adrenalectomia extra nagy méretű (>10 cm ) és malignus tumorok, illetve nagy méretű haemangiomák eltávolítására is alkalmas eljárás. A mellékvese-haemangiomák sebészi reszekciója nagyfokú körültekintést igényel, megnövekedett vérzéshajlamuk, valamint a gyakori, nagyerekhez való közeli elhelyezkedés miatt a konverzió veszélye is jelentősen növekszik. Orv Heti. 2020; 161(47): 2006-2010. Summary. Adrenal hemangiomas are rare. Their preoperative diagnosis is usually vague, and often require advanced surgical skills for resection. We herein describe the case of a 69-year-old female patient initially presented with weight loss and hypertension. Preoperative Computed Tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the presence of an adrenal cyst and possible adrenocortical carcinoma requiring surgical intervention. After initial laparoscopic transperitoneal approach, conversion to open surgery through a small paramedian incision was carried out due to the lesion's problematic location and continuous intraoperative bleeding. Open adrenalectomy along with the removal of a fluid-bearing lesion from the caudal pole of the kidney was performed. Histology confirmed a cyst removed from the mid-third, and a rare occurring adrenal hemangioma from the cranial part of the kidney. Adrenal hemangiomas usually bear uncertain preoperative diagnosis. Surgical removal becomes necessary in case of increasing size, potential to compress neighbouring structures and possible malignancy. Laparoscopic transperitoneal adrenalectomy is a feasible approach for the removal of extra large (>10 cm) and even malignant lesions as well as for large hemangiomas. Surgery of adrenal hemangiomas require a high level of caution, moreover, their potential for bleeding and frequent vicinity to nearby vascular structures may increase the need for open surgery. Orv Hetil. 2020; 161(47): 2006-2010.

The role of an overinflated endotracheal tube in the diagnosis of tracheal injuries

Tracheobronchial injury is an uncommon, but often life-threatening condition. It is mostly caused by blunt thoracic or neck trauma, difficult or prolonged intubation associated with nasogastric tube insertion. An early diagnosis and treatment can be lifesaver. The diagnosis is often late because of atypical symptoms and unspecific radiological signs, and due to the presence of severe coexistent injuries. Generally, the classic hallmark during physical examination is a progressive, extensive surgical emphysema. Radiological signs are often atypical, which makes the diagnosis more difficult. The most frequent signs found on computed tomography are also unspecific, mostly surgical emphysema, pneumomediastinum or pneumothorax may be noted. We present three patients suffering from airway laceration caused by car accident, difficult intubation, and prolonged utilization of nasogastric and endotracheal tube. All the patients had an overdistended endotracheal balloon herniated outside the extratracheal space along the rupture of the tracheal wall. These external balloons were all detected on radiography. This is a direct and pathognomic sign of airway injury, suggesting complete rupture in the tracheal wall. In our report, we would like to highlight the diagnostic role of an overinflated cuff. Orv Hetil. 2020; 161(25): 1063-1068.

Evaluating the distribution of the locations of colorectal cancer after appendectomy and cholecystectomy

Backgrounds

The number of appendectomies and cholecystectomies performed is gradually increasing worldwide. An increasing incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) after appendectomy and cholecystectomy has been reported, but the location of tumors in certain segments of the colon and rectum after appendectomy and cholecystectomy is still uncertain. We aimed to evaluate the distribution of the locations of colorectal cancer after appendectomy and/or cholecystectomy in patients who underwent CRC surgery.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of patients who had undergone CRC surgery between 2015 and 2017 for the presence of previous appendectomy/cholecystectomy. Data were collected from the Colorectal Data Base of the University of Szeged, Department of Surgery.

Results

Surgery for CRC was performed in 640 patients during the study period. Data of 604 patients were analyzed. Appendectomy was performed in 100 patients (16.6%), cholecystectomy in 65 (10.8%), and both interventions in 18 (3%) before the CRC surgery. Out of those patients who underwent appendectomy alone, 92 (92%) had undergone appendectomy more than 10 years before the CRC surgery. Also in these 100 patients, the prevalence of right-sided colon cancer (CC) was 35% (n = 35), in comparison with the prevalence among the 504 other patients (20.4%, n = 103). The prevalence of right-sided CC among patients who underwent cholecystectomy alone was 36.9% (n = 24), in comparison with 21.2% (n = 114) of the 539 other patients.

Conclusions

A significant left to right side shift in CRC was noted among patients who had previously undergone appendectomy/cholecystectomy. Because right-sided CC has a worse prognosis, the role of incidental appendectomy and routine cholecystectomy seems that need re-evaluation.

Conversion method to manage surgical difficulties in non-intubated uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery for major lung resection: simple thoracotomy without intubation

Background

The major limitations of widespread use of non-intubated thoracic surgery (NITS) is the fear of managing complications. Here we present our practice of converting from uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) NITS to open NITS in cases of surgical complications.

Methods

The study period was from January 26, 2017, to November 30, 2018. Total intravenous anesthesia was provided with propofol guided by bispectral index, and the airway was maintained with a laryngeal mask with spontaneous breathing. Local anesthesia with 2% lidocaine at the skin incision, and intercostal and vagus nerve blockades were induced using 0.5% bupivacaine. For conversion with surgical indications, a thoracotomy was performed at the incision without additional local or general anesthetics.

Results

In 160 complete NITS procedures, there were 145 VATS NITS and 15 open NITS (9 conversions to open NITS and 6 intended NITS thoracotomies). In the 15 open NITS cases (2 pneumonectomies, 1 bilobectomy, 1 sleeve lobectomy, 7 lobectomies, 3 sublobar resections, 1 exploration), the mean operative time was 146.7 (105–225) and 110 (75–190) minutes in the converted and intended open NITS groups, respectively. There were no significant differences between systolic blood pressure (P=0.316; 95% CI, −10.469 to 3.742), sat O2% (P=0.27; 95% CI, −1.902 to 0.593), or propofol concentration in the effect site (P=0.053; 95% CI, −0.307 to 0.002) but significant differences in pulse (P=0.007; 95% CI, −10.001 to −2.72), diastolic blood pressure (P=0.013; 95% CI, −9.489 to −1.420) and in end-tidal CO2 (P=0.016; 95% CI, −7.484 to −0.952) before versus after thoracotomy, but there was no clinical relevance of the differences.

Conclusions

For conversion with surgical indications during the VATS-NITS procedure, NITS thoracotomy can be performed safely at the site of the utility incision without the need for additional drugs, and the major lung resections can be performed through this approach.

Surgical treatment of awn aspiration causing bronchopleural fistula and bronchiectasis: case reports

BACKGROUND

Aspiration of grass inflorescences is an extremely rare phenomenon with potential diagnostic difficulties. Due to its special shape, each coughing and respiratory action helps its migration towards the periphery of lung, resulting late-onset, life-threatening complications. The diagnosis has some difficulties for the reason that soon after the aspiration initial symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing or vomiting disappear and bronchoscopy is mostly negative. At least serious complications such as tension pneumothorax, bronchopleurocutaneous fistula or even spontaneous percutan elimination may develope.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present two cases of pleuropneumonia resulting from aspiration of the head of barley grass. Soon after the accidents initial symptoms diminished, inflammatory markers improved and bronchoscopy was unable to confirm the presence of awn. Despite of conservative treatment (antibiotics, physiotherapy, bronchodilators, expectorants, and inhalation) localized pulmonary inflammation developed after 1 and 9 months showed up on chest computed tomography. After ineffective conservative treatment, surgical resections became inevitable in order to remove chronically inflamed parts (lobectomy, segmentectomy) and foreign bodies. Both patients recovered and were discharged home after successful interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to its peculiar shape and behaviour, awn inhalation is a special and atypical form of aspiration, thus great care and awareness is needed in its treatment. Negative bronchoscopic result does not exclude the presence of bronchial grass head. Symptomless child with negative bronchoscopy and improved inflammatory markers should be followed up thoroughly to recognize late complications in time. Regular diagnostic steps (chest ultrasound/X-ray) should be performed to localize potential chronic lung inflammation. Chest computed tomography is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying and localising the foreign body. In cases with localized inflammation and peripheric localisation, segmentectomy can be a successful and safe alternative of lobectomy.

[Li-Fraumeni syndrome]

Li-Fraumeni syndrome is a rare genetic disorder predisposing the individual to multiple different cancer types, caused by a germline mutation of the TP53 or CHEK2 genes inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. We hereby describe the case of a family with Li-Fraumeni syndrome. An asymptomatic 40-year-old female was diagnosed with primary lung leiomyosarcoma (T3N0), adenocarcinoma (T1aN0), and inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, which were surgically removed without further treatment. Twenty months later she underwent surgery for retroperitoneal liposarcoma and even though she received adjuvant chemotherapy, deceased shortly after. Due to family history, the patient underwent TP53 mutation testing, using peripheral blood genomic DNA, which identified a heterozygous, likely pathogenic missense mutation (c.722C>G p.Ser241Cys) in case of the mother and her son. Three years after the patient's death, her 17-year-old son was diagnosed with a 3.5 cm osteosarcoma of the right second rib, which was surgically removed, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. However, despite treatment, he deceased after two years. Throughout four generations of the patient's family, 10 malignant tumors (stomach-, breast-, 2 lung-, and colon cancer, leukemia, leiomyosarcoma, liposarcoma and 2 osteosarcoma) were diagnosed with a mean age of 43.2 (13-70 years) years. The simultaneous appearance of primary lung leiomyosarcoma, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor and adenocarcinoma in the same organ is extremely rare. When possible, surgical resection should be carried out. Genetic testing for TP53 is recommended when family history is suggestive of Li-Fraumeni syndrome. Prognosis remains poor. Orv Hetil. 2019; 160(6): 228-234.

[Risk factors for deterioration of liver functions after successful kidney transplantation]

INTRODUCTION

Increase of liver function is one of the most common complications after kidney transplantation due to the use of immunosuppressive therapy and hyperlipidemia in addition to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.

METHOD

Following the selection criteria (n = 59), the study is based on applied immunosuppressive therapy, baseline data of patients, further correlation between HCV and liver function deterioration. Patients were subjected to fasting laboratory examination to monitor serum electrolytes, uric acid and albumin levels. We looked at the effects of immunosuppressive therapy on the lipids (TG, TC, HDL, LDL) and liver enzymes (GOT, GPT, ALP, GGT). The analysis of the relationship between lipids and liver enzymes was also included in our study.

RESULTS

The data basics were not significantly different between the tacrolimus and the cyclosporine groups. In the laboratory results, Mg levels were significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.044). The impact of HCV on the liver function was significantly different on GGT (p = 0.008). We examed the lipids and liver function level between the tacrolimus and the patients receiving cyclosporine-based immunosuppression and the total cholesterol (p = 0.005) and GOT (p = 0.05) were significantly different between the two groups. Hyperlipidemia was associated with 26% of patients taking tacrolimus-based immunosuppression, and 89% of those receiving cyclosporine; the difference was significant (p = 0.002). Regarding the effect of hyperlipidemia on liver enzymes, ALP (p = 0.006) and GGT (p = 0.0001) were significantly higher.

CONCLUSION

Increases in hepatic enzymes, ALT and GGT indicate the damage to hepatocytes. Beside the increase of liver function, which is the main risk factor in hepatitis on HCV soil, the applied immunosuppressive therapy and hyperlipidemia lead to degradation of allograft function and long-term graft loss. Orv hetil. 2019; 160(5): 186-190.

Tüdőlebeny-eltávolítást követő kemoterápia tolerabilitását befolyásoló perioperatív tényezők

Abstract:

Introduction: Lung cancer is the leading cause of malignancy-related deaths in Hungary, involving complex surgical and oncological treatment. Aim: Factors influencing the tolerability of complete/planned and incomplete postoperative chemotherapy after surgery were analyzed. Method: During a 6-year period (January 1, 2011–December 31, 2016), data of 72 patients operated with lung cancer (adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma), receiving complete (4 cycles) and incomplete (<4 cycles) postoperative chemotherapy were analyzed. The following factors among the two groups [complete: n = 53; incomplete: n = 19] were analyzed: gender, mean age, body mass index, Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool, Charlson Comorbidity Index, second malignant tumor, atrial fibrillation, Forced Expiratory Volume 1 sec, Performance Status, open/Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) lobectomy, duration of surgery, postoperative fever, need for transfusion, prolonged air leak, redo surgery, histology, tumor stage. Results: The rate of complete postoperative cycles obtained from logistic regression analysis, were substantially higher after VATS lobectomies [n = 26 (83.87%)] compared to open procedures [n = 27 (65.85%)]; (p = 0.092; OR = 0.356), without significance. Multivariate analysis (open/VATS lobectomy, upper/middle-lower lobe resection, diabetes, prolonged air leak, postoperative fever) showed significantly increased successful uptake of complete cycles after VATS (p = 0.0495), while upper/middle lobe resections (p = 0.0678) and the lack of diabetes (p = 0.0971) notably increased the number of complete cycles, without significance. Conclusion: Twenty-six percent of patients were unable to receive complete planned postoperative chemotherapy. VATS lobectomy patients received significantly higher number of complete cycles of postoperative chemotherapy. Diabetes and lower lobe lobectomies had a negative effect on the tolerability of postoperative chemotherapy. Orv Hetil. 2018; 159(19): 748–755.

[Removal of giant adrenal tumors using the laparoscopic transperitoneal technique. A report of three successful cases]

With the development of laparoscopic adrenalectomy, indications for resection gradually span from small and benign to bigger and even malignant lesions. We studied the results of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for giant (>10 cm) adrenal tumors in three cases. Three patients (2 female, 1 male, mean age 49.33 years, BMI 31) underwent laparoscopic transperitoneal adrenalectomy due to giant (>10 cm) adrenal lesions with a limited size Pfannenstiel incision. Mean operative time was 126.66 minutes, with a mean intraoperative blood loss of 150 ml. Final histology confirmed adrenocortical carcinoma in two cases, and neurofibroma in one case. Mean hospital stay was 4 days, without perioperative complications. R0 resection was carried out in all cases. During a mean follow-up period of 24 months no local or distant metastasis occurred. Under appropriate conditions adrenalectomy performed by the laparoscopic transperitoneal technique for giant malignant tumors proved to be a safe method fulfilling oncological requirements. Orv Hetil. 2017; 158(45): 1802-1807.

[Changes in carbohydrate metabolism after kidney transplantation and their effects on cardiovascular risk]

INTRODUCTION

Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of deaths after transplantation, with diabetes mellitus being the main risk factor in development.

AIM

The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of new onset diabetes mellitus in connection with the cardiovascular risk predicted by the HEART Score.

METHOD

44 patients were involved in our study; after overview of baseline data, OGTT was performed, followed by patient classification into the following groups: normal, impaired fasting glucose/impaired glucose tolerance, and new onset diabetes mellitus. Insulin resistance and kidney function were also assessed.

RESULTS

Concerning baseline data, cold ischemic time (p = 0.016), body weight (p = 0.035), BMI (p = 0.025), and HbA_1C (p = 0.0024) proved to be significantly different between normal and diabetic patients. Significant difference was found based on HOMA IR between the two groups 1.69±0.51 vs 6.46±1.42; p = 0.0017). Based on the HEART Score, patients with new onset diabetes mellitus were put into Group 3, which also reflects the risk which diabetes carries for the development of cardiovascular diseases.

CONCLUSION

Cardiovascular risk can be decreased with increased allograft survival by early diagnosis and management of diabetes. Orv Hetil. 2017; 158(38): 1512-1516.

[Results of the video-assisted thoracic surgery lobectomy at our department in the last five-year periode]

OBJECTIVES

Herein we present the results of lobectomies performed with minimally invasive approach (video-assisted thoracic surgery - VATS) at our department during a period of five years.

METHODS

Between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2015, 197 lobectomies (malignant lesions: 176 cases, benign lesions: 21 cases) were performed by three thoracic surgeons and one resident. Demographical data are as follows: 119 female/78 male, mean age: 62.4 years (range: 41-82 years). In 2011 three VATS lobectomies were performed, equaling 2.2 % of all lobectomies in that year. During the upcomig years the number of VATS lobectomies were as follows: 2012: 7 (7.3%), 2013: 13 (12%), 2014: 59 (34.5%) and 2015: 119 (68.5%). In 153 cases multiportal (78%) and in 44 cases uniportal (22%) anterior approach was performed. The resected lobes showed the following distribution: right upper: 85, mid lobe: 5, right lower: 28, left upper: 44, left lower: 34, upper bilobectomy: 1. In two cases sleeve lobectomy was performed. In 8 cases (4%) conversion to thoracotomy was needed and among the 46 uniportal procedures, 5 cases needed to be expanded into biportal approach (11%).

RESULTS

During the study period, no intraoperative, or perioperative mortality occured. Mean operative time was 123 minutes (range: 60-135 minutes) and mean time of chest drainage was 4.3 days (range: 1-27 days). Air leakage lasting more than 7 days was present in 11.7%. Reoperation was needed in 4 cases (2%), in two cases due to bleeding, and in two cases because of expansive difficulties due to extended subcutaneous emphysema. Among the 176 VATS lobectomies performed due to malignant lesions, 169 lung cancers and 7 metastases were removed. The distribution according to the stage and histology of lung cancers was as follows: IA: 100 cases, IB: 28 cases, IIA: 17 cases, IIB: 3 cases, IIIA: 16 cases, IIIB: 1 case, and IV: 4 cases; adenocarcinoma: 128 cases, squamous cell carcinoma: 26 cases, large cell carcinoma: 3 cases, small cell lung cancer: 1 case, typical carcinoid: 10 cases, and atypical carcinoid: 1 case.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the years VATS lobectomy became a rutin procedure at our institution. Nowadays more than two-thirds of lobectomies are performed with minimally invasive technique. Taking the learning curve of the four thoracic surgeons into consideration, our results correlate with international data.

[Banff score changes in kidneys from marginal donors]

INTRODUCTION

Despite an increase in the number of cadaver donors and the number of overall organ transplantations, the dramatic increase in the waiting list makes it necessary to reconsider donor criteria.

AIM

The authors examined whether differences could exist in the function and/or morphology of transplanted kidneys originated from marginal and ideal donors one and five years after transplantation.

METHOD

Kidney function and histopathologic findings were analysed and compared one and 5 years after transplantation in 97 patients having marginal donor kidneys and 178 patients who received ideal donor kidneys.

RESULTS

Serum creatinine level was significantly higher (p = 0.0001) and estimated glomerular filtration rate was significantly lower (p = 0.003) in patients having marginal donor kidneys as compared to those with ideal donor kidneys 5 years after transplantation. Morphological changes in the transplanted kidneys such as tubulitis (p = 0.014) and interstitial inflammation (p = 0.025) were significantly more frequently present in patients with marginal donor kidneys than in those with ideal donor kidneys one year after transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Despite an absence of differences in kidney function one year after kidney transplantation between patients having marginal and ideal donor kidneys, morphologic differences in the transplanted kidneys can be detected between the two groups of patients.

[In Process Citation]

OBJECTIVES

Different methods of open or minimally invasive thymectomies have been recommended for the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG). We compared the results of standard transsternal thymectomy (TS) and two different types of minimally invasive thymectomies [video-assisted thoracoscopic extended thymectomy (VATET) and classic Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (cVATS)] performed at the same department.

METHODS

During three different time periods 71 patients (60 female and 11 male; mean age 31 [range, 14-84] years) underwent thymectomy for MG. Twenty-three underwent standard transsternal thymectomy (January 1995 - September 2004), 22 VATET (September 2004 - August 2009), and 26 cVATS (September 2009 - December 2011) thymectomy for the right side. Operative data, MG- and surgery-related postoperative morbidity and early improvement of MG during the initial 1-year follow-up period were compared among the three methods.

RESULTS

There were no perioperative deaths during the study period. Operative time was 112, 211, and 116 minutes (p = 0.001) in the TS, VATET and cVATS, respectively, and the length of hospital stay was 8.9, 5.6, and 4.0 (p = 0.001) days. Postoperative MG-related neurological morbidity affected 21.7%, 18.2%, and 7.7% (p = 0.365) of the patients and the surgery-related morbidity rate was 4.3%, 13.7%, and 0% (p = 0.118) in the TS, VATET and cVATS groups, respectively. Symptom improvement rates were 91.3%, 94.7%, and 87.5% (p = 0.712), and complete remission rates were 13%, 10.5%, and 11.5% (p = 0.917) after TS, VATET and cVATS thymectomies, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In terms of operative time and hospital stay the best results were found after cVATS. The use of a less invasive surgical intervention resulted in less surgical-, and MG related neurological complications. The improvement of MG symptoms was excellent and results were similar after different types of thymectomies.

Side effects of the calcineurin inhibitor, such as new-onset diabetes after kidney transplantation

New-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) is one of the frequent complications following kidney transplantation. Patients were randomized to receive cyclosporine A- or tacrolimus-based immunosuppression. Fasting and oral glucose tolerance tests were performed, and the patients were assigned to one of the following three groups based on the results: normal, impaired fasting glucose/impaired glucose tolerance (IFG/IGT), or NODAT. NODAT developed in 14% of patients receiving cyclosporine A-based immunosuppression and in 26% of patients taking tacrolimus (p = 0.0002). Albumin levels were similar, but uric acid level (p = 0.002) and the age of the recipient (p = 0.003) were significantly different comparing the diabetic and the normal groups. Evaluation of tissue samples revealed that acute cellular rejection (ACR) and interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IF/TA) were significantly different in the NODAT group. The pathological effect of new-onset diabetes after kidney transplantation can be detected in the morphology of the renal allograft earlier, before the development of any sign of functional impairment.

[Gastrointestinal locations of primary melanoma]

Primary gastrointestinal melanomas, part of the mucosal melanoma group, are uncommon. They constitute about five percent of all melanomas and most of them are located in the rectum (3 percent of all melanomas). The prognosis is poor, overall 5-year survival in rectal melanoma is 10-20 percent. We present three of our cases. The first case - a 68-year-old male patient - was operated on for histologically proved rectal melanoma. Three years after radical excision and oncological treatment a metastasis of the primary tumor was diagnosed in the stomach. Total gastrectomy was performed, followed by oncological treatment. In the second case of a 59-year-old male patient an appendectomy was performed for symptoms of appendicitis. The histopathological examination revealed melanoma of the appendix. Further investigations revealed the primary tumor in the stomach and metastases in the lungs as well. The third case - an 82-year-old female patient - was investigated for frequent defecations, mucus in stool and fecal incontinence. Primary melanoma was proved in the lower third of the rectum with multiple hepatic metastases. These three cases in our practice are remarkable for the rarity of the disease, and in two cases the presence of both the primary tumor and the metastasis were located in the gastrointestinal tract.

[CS circular staplers for rectal surgery--a multicenter prospective study]

While circular staplers are used worldwide - especially for rectal anastomoses - there are relatively few publications on the effectiveness of these instruments. Between May 2008 and March 2009 in a prospective multicenter surveillance study 136 patients were enrolled from nine surgical units in Hungary. Rectal anastomoses were performed mainly in the upper and middle third of the rectum. In 115 cases adenocarcinoma, in 16 patients other type of malignant tumors and in 5 cases with anastomosis in the distal third were estimated too. 20 laparoscopic and 116 "conventional" surgery was performed. 32 mm diameter type CS circular staplers were used in 50, 28 mm in 85, and 25 mm in one case. Intraoperative technical failure of the device occurred in four cases, immediate correction were performed successfully in all of these patients and they recovered without postoperative complications. Late anastomotic leaks were detected in five patients, of which three healed spontaneously and two required reoperation. In the whole series two patients died representing a 1.4 percent mortality rate. The CS circular staplers proved to be appropriate for infraperitoneal rectal anastomoses.

[Intraoperative ultrasonography for common bile duct exploration during laparoscopic cholecystectomy]

The "Endomedix Laparoscan" and the "Leopard" and "Panther" intraoperative ultrasounds were successfully used for the detection of unsuspected common bile duct stones during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Out of 60 patients six had common bile duct (CBD) stones and in one patient sludge has been seen. In patients with CBD stones, four small calculi have been observed in one patient, despite negative intraoperative cholangiography (IC). In an other patient a stone in the retropancreatic part of the CBD was detected. Based on preoperative findings CBD stone was unsuspected. We found that intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) is useful for in investigating the CBD to detect unsuspected common bile duct stones. It can be used for the examination of other organs (liver, pancreas, hepatoduodenal ligament) as well. The method is easy to perform, fairly simple and informative so it can replace IC during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

[Laparoscopic transcystic biliary calculus extraction with Dormia basket]

We describe transcystic common bile duct (CBD) stone extraction using Dormia basket in patients with preoperatively unexpected CBD stones during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). We perform intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) selectively. Stone extraction was successful five times and we converted to open procedure in one patient because of the size of the stone. Mild postoperative acute pancreatitis developed once. No other complication was detected. Procedures performed if CBD stone is detected intraoperatively are evaluated in the article, including indications and difficulties of the Dormia basket method. We suggest the introduction of the method as an alternative treatment for unexpected CBD stones during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Role of platelet-activating factor in glucose uptake and utilization of different tissues

The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the role of platelet-activating factor (PAF) in influencing the glucose metabolism of selected rat tissues. The in vivo glucose utilization rate in different tissues assessed by the 2-deoxyglucose tracer technique was determined 80 min following the intravenous injection of human serum albumin in saline or intravenous administration of a known amount (130 ng/100 g BW) of PAF. PAF administration resulted in significant hyperglycemia (8.89 +/- 0.29 mmol/l) and increased the in vivo glucose utilization rate by the polymorphonuclear leukocytes (435%), monocytes (218%), liver (58%), lung (53%), intestine (52%) and spleen (51%). Owing to the accentuated hyperglycemia the metabolic clearance rate (MCR) for glucose was also calculated; this rate is an indicator of the avidity of tissues for this metabolite. There were significantly elevated MCR values in the polymorphonuclear leukocytes (211%), monocytes (229%), spleen (79%), intestine (71%) and liver (67%). These findings indicate that tissue glucose metabolism is deeply affected by the administration of PAF and according to data obtained it is thought that this mediator may also be involved in the upregulation of host defense-related cellular functions.

Intraoperative ultrasonography for common bile duct exploration during laparoscopic cholecystectomy

The "Endomedix Laparoscan Diagnostic Ultrasound" from the Medilas Ltd. and the "Leopard" and "Panther" type intraoperative ultrasound instruments from the Green Sound Ltd. have been used with success in sixty cases during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) by the authors. Of these patients in four cases common bile duct (CBD) stones and in one case only sludge have been found. Of those with CBD stones, in one case four little stones have been observed despite of negative intraoperative cholangiography (IC) and in one case calculus in the retropancreatic CBD part was detected. On the basis of preoperative findings the CBD stones have not been expected. According to the authors the intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) can be used with no exception in all cases eligible for LC, and also it can be used for the examination of neighboring organs (liver, pancreas, hepatoduodenal ligament). The method is extremely useful, performance quick, simple and informative as well as it can replace IC during LC.

[Changes in the serum lipid levels in males with ischemic heart disease under the effect of diets with various cholesterol and fat contents]

In the treatment of hyperlipoproteinaemia the diet still has a primary importance. The authors have investigated the effect of different fat, cholesterol and unsaturated/saturated fatty acid content diets on the lipid levels of men suffering from coronary heart disease during 3 weeks long hospital treatment in the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department. On a diet containing daily 65 g fat, 230 mg cholesterol with a 1.23 unsaturated/saturated fatty acid ratio the total cholesterol level of 66 patients showed a 5.8% decrease (P < 0.05). The 1% decrease of triglyceride, the 3.9% decrease of HDL-cholesterol, the 7.3% decrease of LDL-cholesterol levels were not significant. There was a positive correlation between the cholesterol level at the beginning and the degree of its change (0.7043): the patients with 6.5 mmol/l or less cholesterol level at the entry in the study showed a 2.8% decrease in serum cholesterol level, the patients with more than 6.5 mmol/l 8.1%. On a diet containing daily 105 g fat, 420 mg cholesterol, with a 0.7 unsaturated/saturated fatty acid ratio the triglyceride level showed a 20.6%, the total cholesterol 0.5% increase, at the same hand the HDL-cholesterol 1.1%, the LDL-cholesterol 5.1% decrease (only the change of triglyceride level was significant). The results emphasise the strong relation between diet and level of serum lipids.

[Rare late complication of transcystic drainage]

The authors performed 3539 successful endoscopic retrograde cholangio-panreatographies between 1982 and 1992. In 1160 (32.7%) of the cases was revealed some kind of pathological condition. In connection with one case, following conventional cholecystectomy, a very rare complication was diagnosed by endoscopic means. There was a stent-like object, hanging into the duodenal lumen, through a parapapillar fistula. This was surgically removed. It turned retrospectively out that the removal of K-32 feeding tube used as a transcystic drain 18 years earlier had managed only partially. After this period of time did it cause a biliary flow obstruction and a choledocho-duodenal fistula. The endoscopic diagnostic possibilities, course of disease and treatment is presented hereby.

[Splenic infarction and abscess as a complication of atrial fibrillation]

The case of a 64 year old man is presented by the authors whose spleen infarction developed in connection with atrial fibrillation was transformed into splenic abscess in spite of the applied conservative treatment. According to the overviewed literature the etiology, symptoms, diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities, as well as prognosis of these two entities related to spleen are described hereby.

Adrenergic blockade attenuates endotoxin-induced hepatic glucose uptake

The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the role of catecholamines in mediating the endotoxin-induced increase in glucose uptake of individual tissues. In vivo glucose utilization by selected tissues, assessed by the 2-deoxyglucose (2dGlc) tracer technique, was determined 3 hr following the i.v. injection of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 100 micrograms/100 g bw) or saline. Catecholamine action was inhibited by the combined administration of alpha and beta receptor antagonists, phentolamine and propranolol. Adrenergic antagonists alone did not change plasma glucose levels or the glucose metabolic rate (Rg) of the investigated tissues; however, adrenergic blockage resulted in mild hypoglycemia in endotoxemic animals. LPS administration increased in vivo Rg by the liver (571%), lung (229%), spleen (210%), intestine (76%), skin (82%), fat (181%), gastrocnemius muscle (70%), and kidney (61%). There was a significant elevation in the glucose metabolic clearance rate (MCR) by these tissues as well. LPS did not increase Rg by brain and testis. Adrenergic blockade completely prevented the LPS-induced Rg increase in the liver and partially inhibited the elevation in other tissues. The LPS-induced increase in the MCR in spleen, lung, intestine, skin, fat, muscle, and kidney was not altered by adrenergic blockade, indicating that the attenuated Rg in these tissues was the consequence of the decreased plasma glucose concentration observed under this condition. However, in the liver, adrenergic antagonists markedly inhibited the LPS-induced increase in both Rg and MCR. Thus our data indicate that the glucose metabolic response to LPS is partially mediated by catecholamines through the accompanying changes in plasma glucose concentration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Kupffer cells play a major role in insulin-mediated hepatic glucose uptake in vivo

The effect of insulin on the in vivo glucose utilization by different hepatic cells was investigated using the euglycemic, hyperinsulinemic clamp, combined with the 2-deoxyglucose tracer technique. Rats were infused with insulin at a rate of 2.8 or 9.0 mU/min/kg for 220 min, resulting in plasma concentrations of the hormone of about 80 microU/ml and 340 microU/ml, respectively. Glucose use by the whole liver was elevated by more than 200% following insulin. However, glucose uptake by the parenchymal cells was only elevated by 50-60%. By contrast nonparenchymal cells were more responsive to insulin. Glucose uptake by endothelial cells was increased 100% and Kupffer cells displayed the most marked response to insulin showing a 3- to 6-fold increase in glucose uptake. These data indicate that the sinusoidal nonparenchymal cells are the major sites of the insulin-mediated increased glucose utilization by the liver.