Perioperative and Postoperative Continuous Nutritional Counseling Improves Quality of Life of Gastric Cancer Patient Undergoing Gastrectomy

Post-gastrectomy syndrome (PGS) and body weight loss (BWL) decrease quality of life (QOL) and survival of the patient undergoing gastrectomy. We have introduced perioperative and post-discharge continuous nutritional counseling (CNC) to prevent BWL and improve QOL after gastrectomy. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of CNC on QOL using the Post-gastrectomy Syndrome Assessment Scale-45 (PGSAS-45). Eighty-three patients with gastric cancer (GC) who underwent curative gastrectomy between March 2018 and July 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients received either pre-discharge nutritional counseling alone (control group, n = 45) or CNC (CNC group, n = 38) after gastrectomy. QOL at 12 months after gastrectomy was compared between the two groups. In QOL assessment, change in body weight (-7.98% vs. -12.77%, p = 0.0057), ingested amount of food per meal (7.00 vs. 6.07, p = 0.042) and ability for working (1.89 vs. 2.36, p = 0.049) were significantly better in CNC group than control group. Multiple regression analysis showed that CNC was a significantly beneficial factor for abdominal pain subscale (p = 0.028), diarrhea subscale (p = 0.047), ingested amount of food per meal (p = 0.012), Ability for working (p = 0.031) and dissatisfaction at the meal (p = 0.047). Perioperative and postoperative CNC could improve QOL in the patient undergoing gastrectomy in addition to preventing postoperative BWL.

Robotic Pancreatoduodenectomy in Portal Annular Pancreas Using a Hanging Maneuver with Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Imaging

BACKGROUND

Sufficient knowledge and surgical management of portal annular pancreas (PAP) are essential for pancreatic surgery. As PAP is a relatively rare pancreatic anomaly, few studies have described surgical techniques for patients with PAP undergoing robotic pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

An 82-year-old female patient who underwent RPD presented with distal cholangiocarcinoma and type III PAP (the fusion of the uncinate process with the anteportal main pancreatic duct). After the Kocher maneuver and stomach transection, the pancreas was transected into the neck of the anteportal portion. The retroportal portion was dissected, encircled with hanging tape, and compressed. Blood supply from the mesenteric vessels was confirmed using indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging. Subsequently, the retroportal portion was stapled.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates a unique surgical technique for type III PAP using the hanging maneuver with ICG fluorescence imaging. Surgeons should decide on the surgical strategy on the basis of the fusion and ductal anatomy of the pancreas.

Role of robotic surgery as an element of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocol in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Although the current trend in pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) has shifted from open surgery to minimally invasive surgery (MIS), evidence on the role of MIS as an element of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) in PD is limited. This study aimed to investigate the effect of robotic surgery using the ERAS protocol on the outcomes of patients undergoing PD.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 252 patients who underwent open PD (OPD) or robotic PD (RPD) managed using the ERAS protocol between January 2017 and March 2023. Outcomes stratified by the surgical approach were compared. Multivariable analyses were performed to evaluate the effect of ERAS items, including robotic surgery, on outcomes after PD.

RESULTS

Of 252 patients, 202 (80.2%) underwent OPD, and 50 (19.2%) underwent RPD. Multivariable analyses demonstrated that perioperative management center support (odds ratio [OR], 2.85; 95% CI, 1.14-7.72; P = .025), robotic surgery (OR, 6.40; 95% CI, 1.94-26.1; P = .002), early solid intake (OR, 2.84; 95% CI, 1.46-5.63; P = .002), and early drain removal (OR, 3.77; 95% CI, 2.04-7.06; P < .001) were significant ERAS items related to early discharge after PD.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that employing the ERAS protocol for OPD and RPD is feasible and safe. Moreover, our results suggested the role of robotic surgery as an element of the ERAS protocol for PD. A combination of ERAS protocols and MIS may be safe and feasible for accelerating postoperative recovery after PD.

The Feasibility, Proficiency, and Mastery Learning Curves in 635 Robotic Pancreatoduodenectomies Following a Multicenter Training Program: "Standing on the Shoulders of Giants"

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility, proficiency, and mastery learning curves for robotic pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD) in "second-generation" RPD centers following a multicenter training program adhering to the IDEAL framework.

BACKGROUND

The long learning curves for RPD reported from "pioneering" expert centers may discourage centers interested in starting an RPD program. However, the feasibility, proficiency, and mastery learning curves may be shorter in "second-generation" centers that participated in dedicated RPD training programs, although data are lacking. We report on the learning curves for RPD in "second-generation" centers trained in a dedicated nationwide program.

METHODS

Post hoc analysis of all consecutive patients undergoing RPD in 7 centers that participated in the LAELAPS-3 training program, each with a minimum annual volume of 50 pancreatoduodenectomies, using the mandatory Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Audit (March 2016-December 2021). Cumulative sum analysis determined cutoffs for the 3 learning curves: operative time for the feasibility (1) risk-adjusted major complication (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥III) for the proficiency, (2) and textbook outcome for the mastery, (3) learning curve. Outcomes before and after the cutoffs were compared for the proficiency and mastery learning curves. A survey was used to assess changes in practice and the most valued "lessons learned."

RESULTS

Overall, 635 RPD were performed by 17 trained surgeons, with a conversion rate of 6.6% (n=42). The median annual volume of RPD per center was 22.5±6.8. From 2016 to 2021, the nationwide annual use of RPD increased from 0% to 23% whereas the use of laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy decreased from 15% to 0%. The rate of major complications was 36.9% (n=234), surgical site infection 6.3% (n=40), postoperative pancreatic fistula (grade B/C) 26.9% (n=171), and 30-day/in-hospital mortality 3.5% (n=22). Cutoffs for the feasibility, proficiency, and mastery learning curves were reached at 15, 62, and 84 RPD. Major morbidity and 30-day/in-hospital mortality did not differ significantly before and after the cutoffs for the proficiency and mastery learning curves. Previous experience in laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy shortened the feasibility (-12 RPDs, -44%), proficiency (-32 RPDs, -34%), and mastery phase learning curve (-34 RPDs, -23%), but did not improve clinical outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The feasibility, proficiency, and mastery learning curves for RPD at 15, 62, and 84 procedures in "second-generation" centers after a multicenter training program were considerably shorter than previously reported from "pioneering" expert centers. The learning curve cutoffs and prior laparoscopic experience did not impact major morbidity and mortality. These findings demonstrate the safety and value of a nationwide training program for RPD in centers with sufficient volume.

Video Grading of Pancreatic Anastomoses During Robotic Pancreatoduodenectomy to Assess Both Learning Curve and the Risk of Pancreatic Fistula: A Post Hoc Analysis of the LAELAPS-3 Training Program

OBJECTIVE

To assess the learning curve of pancreaticojejunostomy during robotic pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD) and to predict the risk of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) by using the objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS), taking the fistula risk into account.

BACKGROUND

RPD is a challenging procedure that requires extensive training and confirmation of adequate surgical performance. Video grading, modified for RPD, of the pancreatic anastomosis could assess the learning curve of RPD and predict the risk of POPF.

METHODS

Post hoc assessment of patients prospectively included in 4 Dutch centers in a nationwide LAELAPS-3 training program for RPD. Video grading of the pancreaticojejunostomy was performed by 2 graders using OSATS (attainable score: 12-60). The main outcomes were the combined OSATS of the 2 graders and POPF (grade B/C). Cumulative sum analyzed a turning point in the learning curve for surgical skill. Logistic regression determined the cutoff for OSATS. Patients were categorized for POPF risk (ie, low, intermediate, and high) based on the updated alternative fistula risk scores.

RESULTS

Videos from 153 pancreatic anastomoses were included. Median OSATS score was 48 (interquartile range: 41-52) points and with a turning point at 33 procedures. POPF occurred in 39 patients (25.5%). An OSATS score below 49, present in 77 patients (50.3%), was associated with an increased risk of POPF (odds ratio: 4.01, P =0.004). The POPF rate was 43.6% with OSATS < 49 versus 15.8% with OSATS ≥49. The updated alternative fistula risk scores category "soft pancreatic texture" was the second strongest prognostic factor of POPF (odds ratio: 3.37, P =0.040). Median cumulative surgical experience was 17 years (interquartile range: 8-21).

CONCLUSIONS

Video grading of the pancreatic anastomosis in RPD using OSATS identified a learning curve and a reduced risk of POPF in case of better surgical performance. Video grading may provide a valid method to surgical training, quality control, and improvement.

Robotic surgery for congenital biliary dilatation using the scope switch technique (with video)

TECHNIQUE

Minimally invasive congenital biliary dilatation (CBD) surgery is technically demanding. However, few studies have reported surgical approaches of robotic surgery for CBD. This report presents robotic CBD surgery using a scope-switch technique. Our robotic surgery technique for CBD consisted of four steps: step 1, Kocher's maneuver; step 2, dissection of the hepatoduodenal ligament using the scope switch technique; step 3, preparation for the Roux-en-Y loop; and step 4, hepaticojejunostomy.

RESULTS

The scope switch technique can provide different surgical approaches for dissecting the bile duct, including anterior approach by the standard position and right approach by the scope switch position. When approaching the ventral and left side of the bile duct, anterior approach with the standard position is suitable. In contrast, the lateral view by the scope switch position is preferable for approaching the bile duct laterally and dorsally. Using this technique, the dilated bile duct can be dissected circumferentially from four directions: anterior, medial, lateral, and posterior. Thereafter, complete resection of the choledochal cyst can be achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

The scope switch technique in robotic surgery for CBD can be useful for dissecting around the bile duct with different surgical views, leading to the complete resection of the choledochal cyst.

Impact of sarcopenia on clinical outcomes for patients with resected hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective comparison of Eastern and Western cohorts

BACKGROUND

Patient fitness is important for guiding treatment. Muscle mass, as a reflection thereof, can be objectively measured. However, the role of East-West differences remains unclear. Therefore, we compared the impact of muscle mass on clinical outcomes after liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a Dutch [the Netherlands (NL)] and Japanese [Japan (JP)] setting and evaluated the predictive performance of different cutoff values for sarcopenia.

METHOD

In this multicenter retrospective cohort study, patients with HCC undergoing liver resection were included. The skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) was determined on computed tomography scans obtained within 3 months before surgery. The primary outcome measure was overall survival (OS). Secondary outcome measures were: 90-day mortality, severe complications, length of stay, and recurrence-free survival. The predictive performance of several sarcopenia cutoff values was studied using the concordance index (C-index) and area under the curve. Interaction terms were used to study the geographic effect modification of muscle mass.

RESULTS

Demographics differed between NL and JP. Gender, age, and body mass index were associated with SMI. Significant effect modification between NL and JP was found for BMI. The predictive performance of sarcopenia for both short-term and long-term outcomes was higher in JP compared to NL (maximum C-index: 0.58 vs. 0.55, respectively). However, differences between cutoff values were small. For the association between sarcopenia and OS, a strong association was found in JP [hazard ratio (HR) 2.00, 95% CI [1.230-3.08], P =0.002], where this was not found in NL (0.76 [0.42-1.36], P =0.351). The interaction term confirmed that this difference was significant (HR 0.37, 95% CI [0.19-0.73], P =0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

The impact of sarcopenia on survival differs between the East and West. Clinical trials and treatment guidelines using sarcopenia for risk stratification should be validated in race-dependent populations prior to clinical adoption.

Innovative suture technique for robotic hepaticojejunostomy: double-layer interrupted sutures

PURPOSE

Biliary reconstruction remains a technically demanding and complicated procedure in minimally invasive hepatopancreatobiliary surgeries. No optimal hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) technique has been demonstrated to be superior for preventing biliary complications. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of our unique technique of posterior double-layer interrupted sutures in robotic HJ.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database. Forty-two patients who underwent robotic pancreatoduodenectomy using this technique between September 2020 and November 2022 at our center were reviewed. In the posterior double-layer interrupted technique, sutures were placed to bite the bile duct, posterior seromuscular layer of the jejunum, and full thickness of the jejunum.

RESULTS

The median operative time was 410 (interquartile range [IQR], 388-478) min, and the median HJ time was 30 (IQR, 28-39) min. The median bile duct diameter was 7 (IQR, 6-10) mm. Of the 42 patients, one patient (2.4%) had grade B bile leakage. During the median follow-up of 12.6 months, one patient (2.4%) with bile leakage developed anastomotic stenosis. Perioperative mortality was not observed. A surgical video showing the posterior double-layer interrupted sutures in the robotic HJ is included.

CONCLUSIONS

Posterior double-layer interrupted sutures in robotic HJ provided a simple and feasible method for biliary reconstruction with a low risk of biliary complications.

Impact of cancer-associated fibroblasts on survival of patients with ampullary carcinoma

Background

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) reportedly enhance the progression of gastrointestinal surgery; however, the role of CAFs in ampullary carcinomas remains poorly examined. This study aimed to investigate the effect of CAFs on the survival of patients with ampullary carcinoma.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis of 67 patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy between January 2000 and December 2021 was performed. CAFs were defined as spindle-shaped cells that expressed α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibroblast activation protein (FAP). The impact of CAFs on survival, including recurrence-free (RFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS), as well as prognostic factors associated with survival, was analyzed.

Results

The high-α-SMA group had significantly worse 5-year RFS (47.6% vs. 82.2%, p = 0.003) and 5-year DSS (67.5% vs. 93.3%, p = 0.01) than the low-α-SMA group. RFS (p = 0.04) and DSS (p = 0.02) in the high-FAP group were significantly worse than those in the low-FAP group. Multivariable analyses found that high α-SMA expression was an independent predictor of RFS [hazard ratio (HR): 3.68; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.21–12.4; p = 0.02] and DSS (HR: 8.54; 95% CI: 1.21–170; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

CAFs, particularly α-SMA, can be useful predictors of survival in patients undergoing radical resection for ampullary carcinomas.

Role of the Pfannenstiel Incision in Robotic Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery

Studies remain limited on the role of the Pfannenstiel incision in minimally invasive hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) surgery, especially robotic surgery. The role of various extraction sites in robotic HPB surgery should be understood. Herein, we describe the surgical techniques, outcomes, advantages, and disadvantages of the Pfannenstiel incision in robotic pancreatic surgery. Seventy patients underwent robotic pancreatectomy at our institution between September 2020 and October 2022. The Pfannenstiel incision was used for specimen retrieval in 55 patients. Advantages of the Pfannenstiel incision include less pain, cosmetic benefits, and a lower incidence of complications. Moreover, the specimen could be removed using the robotic system docked. However, all complex reconstructions should be performed intra-abdominally during robotic pancreatoduodenectomies. The incidence of mortality and postoperative pancreatic fistula (grade B) was 0% and 9.1%, respectively. During the median follow-up (11.2 months) after surgery, complications at the Pfannenstiel incision site included surgical site infection (n = 1, 1.8%) and incisional hernia (n = 1, 1.8%). The Pfannenstiel incision can be a useful option for specimen retrieval in minimally invasive HPB surgery, according to the surgeon's preferences and the patient's condition.

Surgical Techniques of Gastrojejunostomy in Robotic Pancreatoduodenectomy: Robot-Sewn versus Stapled Gastrojejunostomy Anastomosis

Background: Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a major complication of pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). Several efforts have been made to decrease the incidence of DGE. However, the optimal anastomotic method for gastro/duodenojejunostomy (GJ) remains debatable. Moreover, few studies have reported the impact of GJ surgical techniques on outcomes following robotic pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD). This study aimed to investigate the surgical outcomes of robot-sewn and stapled GJ anastomoses in RPD. Methods: Forty patients who underwent RPD at the Okayama University Hospital between September 2020 and October 2022 were included. The outcomes between robot-sewn and stapled anastomoses were compared. Results: The mean [standard deviation (SD)] operative and GJ time were 428 (63.5) and 34.0 (15.0) minutes, respectively. Postoperative outcomes included an overall incidence of DGE of 15.0%, and the mean postoperative hospital stays were 11.6 (5.3) days in length. The stapled group (n = 21) had significantly shorter GJ time than the robot-sewn group (n = 19) (22.7 min versus 46.5 min, p < 0.001). Moreover, stapled GJ cases were significantly associated with a lower incidence of DGE (0% versus 21%, p = 0.01). Although not significant, the stapled group tended to have shorter postoperative hospital stays (9.9 days versus 13.5 days, p = 0.08). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that stapled GJ anastomosis might decrease anastomotic GJ time and incidence of DGE after RPD. Surgeons should select a suitable method for GJ anastomosis based on their experiences with RPD.

Survival Impact of Postoperative Skeletal Muscle Loss in Gastric Cancer Patients Who Underwent Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND/AIM

It has recently been recognized that preoperative sarcopenia contributes to postoperative complications and overall survival in gastric cancer (GC). However, few studies have investigated the relationship between postoperative skeletal muscle loss (SML) and survival in GC, despite the inevitability of body weight loss after gastrectomy in most GC patients. Herein, we studied the impact of postoperative SML on GC prognosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 370 patients with GC who underwent curative gastrectomy were retrospectively evaluated in this study. Postoperative SML was assessed on computed tomography (CT) images taken before surgery and 1 year after surgery. The impact of postoperative SML on survival was evaluated.

RESULTS

Postoperative severe SML was significantly associated with presence of comorbidities, higher tumor stage, higher postoperative complication rate and longer hospital stay. Univariate and multivariate analyses of prognostic factors for overall survival revealed that SML was an independent indicator of poor prognosis, along with age, tumor stage, preoperative sarcopenia, and operation time (hazard ratio, 2.65; 95% confidence interval, 1.68-4.20, p<0.0001). There was a strong association of severe postoperative SML with decreased overall survival in patients with preoperative sarcopenia.

CONCLUSION

To improve the prognosis of GC patients after surgery, it is important to prevent postoperative SML as well as preoperative sarcopenia. Perioperative multimodal interventions including nutritional counseling, oral nutritional supplements, and exercise are required to prevent SML after gastrectomy.

Outcomes of a Multicenter Training Program in Robotic Pancreatoduodenectomy (LAELAPS-3)

OBJECTIVE

To assess feasibility and safety of a multicenter training program in robotic pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD) adhering to the IDEAL framework for implementation of surgical innovation.

BACKGROUND

Good results for RPD have been reported from single center studies. However, data on feasibility and safety of implementation through a multicenter training program in RPD are lacking.

METHODS

A multicenter training program in RPD was designed together with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, including an online video bank, robot simulation exercises, biotissue drills, and on-site proctoring. Benchmark patients were based on the criteria of Clavien. Outcomes were collected prospectively (March 2016-October 2019). Cumulative sum analysis of operative time was performed to distinguish the first and second phase of the learning curve. Outcomes were compared between both phases of the learning curve. Trends in nationwide use of robotic and laparoscopic PD were assessed in the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Audit.

RESULTS

Overall, 275 RPD procedures were performed in seven centers by 15 trained surgeons. The recent benchmark criteria for low-risk PD were met by 125 (45.5%) patients. The conversion rate was 6.5% (n = 18) and median blood loss 250ml [interquartile range (IQR) 150-500]. The rate of Clavien-Dindo grade ≥III complications was 44.4% (n = 122), postoperative pancreatic fistula (grade B/C) rate 23.6% (n = 65), 90-day complication-related mortality 2.5% (n = 7) and 90-day cancer-related mortality 2.2.% (n = 6). Median postoperative hospital stay was 12 days (IQR 8-20). In the subgroup of patients with pancreatic cancer (n = 80), the major complication rate was 31.3% and POPF rate was 10%. Cumulative sum analysis for operative time found a learning curve inflection point at 22 RPDs (IQR 10-35) with similar rates of Clavien-Dindo grade ≥III complications in the first and second phase (43.4% vs 43.8%, P = 0.956, respectively). During the study period the nationwide use of laparoscopic PD reduced from 15% to 1%, whereas the use of RPD increased from 0% to 25%.

CONCLUSIONS

This multicenter RPD training program in centers with sufficient surgical volume was found to be feasible without a negative impact of the learning curve on clinical outcomes.

Analysis of microRNAs by the Stem-Loop Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction Using A Double Quencher Probe

Introduction/Objective

We created a universal probe that can be used with mature micro RNAs (miRNAs) using a double quencher incorporating the ZEN quencher into the hydrolysis probe required for miRNA analysis by the real- time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) using a stem-loop primer. The main purpose of this approach was to improve sensitivity and convenience.

Methods/Case Report

We conducted studies on miR-21, miR-30a and miR-200c. To assess the relationship between the sequence interval and reactivity between the miRNA-specific sequence on the stem-loop primer and detection probe, various sequence patterns were examined using miRNA from K562 cells. The sensitivity and reactivity of the designed primers and probes were examined using each synthetic miRNA and transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) samples. The synthetic RNA was serially diluted in 10% increments. Twenty-seven TURBT cases were examined. The prepared samples were extracted with the FastGene RNA Basic Kit and FastGene miRNA Enhancer. After extraction, cDNA was prepared using FastGene Scriptase II. We performed quantitative analysis by the RT-qPCR using a ZEN double quencher probe. The samples were analyzed with the Taq Man miRNA assay.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

The probe and miRNA-specific sequences of the stem-loop primer showed better reactivity when the design contained less space within the sequences. Serial dilution of the samples using synthetic miRNA showed that linearity depended on the addition amount, and occurred at a concentration of log 7 or more. In the TURBT samples, the Δ of the mean Cp value, and the correlation coefficients of miR-21, miR-30a, and miR-200c, were 3.13 and 0.966; 1.10 and 0.991; and 0.39 and 0.997, respectively, compared with the TaqMan miRNA assay.

Conclusion

This demonstrates that our method has the same or higher sensitivity than the TaqMan miRNA assay. Overall, these findings suggest that the analysis of miRNA with a stem-loop primer using the double quencher probe is useful.

Clinical impact of lipid injectable emulsion in internal medicine inpatients exclusively receiving parenteral nutrition: a propensity score matching analysis from a Japanese medical claims database

BACKGROUND

Although guidelines recommend lipid injectable emulsions (ILEs) be used as a part of parenteral nutrition, many patients in Japan receive lipid-free parenteral nutrition. Furthermore, little is known about the effect of ILEs on clinical outcomes in medical inpatients managed with parenteral nutrition. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical impact of ILEs on internal medicine inpatients receiving parenteral nutrition.

METHODS

A propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed using a medical claims database covering 451 hospitals in Japan. Participants included the following internal medicine inpatients, ages ≥ 18 years, fasting > 10 days, and receiving exclusively parenteral nutrition, between 2011 and 2020. Participants were divided into 2 groups: those who did and did not receive ILEs. The primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality. The secondary endpoints included intravenous catheter infection, activities of daily living (ADL), hospital length of stay (LOS), and total medical costs. To adjust for energy doses, logistic or multiple regression analyses were performed using energy dose as an additional explanatory variable.

RESULTS

After PSM, 19,602 matched pairs were formed out of 61,437 patients. The ILE group had significantly lower incidences than the non-ILE group of in-hospital mortality (20.3% vs. 26.9%; odds ratio [OR], 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.66-0.72; p < 0.001), deteriorated ADL (10.8% vs. 12.5%; OR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.79-0.92; p < 0.001), and shorter LOS (regression coefficient, - 0.8; 95% CI, - 1.6-0.0; p = 0.045). After adjusting for energy dose, these ORs or regression coefficients demonstrated the same tendencies and statistical significance. The mean total medical costs were $21,009 in the ILE group and $21,402 in the non-ILE group (p = 0.08), and the adjusted regression coefficient for the ILE vs. the non-ILE group was - $860 (95% CI, - $1252 to - $47).

CONCLUSIONS

ILE use was associated with improved clinical outcomes, including lower in-hospital mortality, in internal medicine inpatients receiving parenteral nutrition.

Characterization of lipidic plaque materials at calcified atheroma: its association with calcification thickness evaluated by optical coherence tomography and near-infrared spectroscopy imaging

Introduction

The degree of calcification and its thickness have been considered to affect stent expansion, leading to an increases risk of repeat revascularization in patients receiving PCI. Pathophysiologically, accumulation of lipidic materials within vessel wall could trigger the formation of plaque calcification. Elucidating characteristics of lipidic plaque components at calcified atheroma may enable to identify phenotypes with thick calcification which less likely responds to PCI.

Purpose

This study investigated the relationship of calcification thickness with lipidic plaque materials at calcified atheroma by using OCT and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) imaging.

Methods

We analyzed 52 calcified lesions (culprit/non culprit lesions=44/8) in 47 CAD patients (stable CAD/ACS=36/11) from the REASSURE-NIRS registry (NCT04864171). OCT and NIRS imaging evaluated 4-mm segment exhibiting maximum superficial calcification arc. Calcification thickness on OCT imaging, its arc on IVUS imaging, and NIRS-derived lipid arc were analyzed at every 1-mm interval cross-sectional images. In addition, yellow-calcification ratio (YCR = lipid arc/calcification arc) was calculated (Figure 1).

Results

53% of study subjects exhibited chronic kidney disease and 70% of them received a statin (averaged on-treatment LDL-C =89mg/dL). Throughout OCT and NIRS/IVUS imaging analysis of 260 cross-sectional images, the averaged calcification arc, its maximum thickness, lipid arc and YCR were 210° (167–285°), 0.78mm (0.62–0.95mm), 95° (31–169°) and 0.33 (0.09–0.59), respectively. As expected, thicker calcification more likely exhibited a greater calcification arc (r=0.30, p&lt;0.001). Furthermore, a greater thickness of calcification was associated with smaller lipidic plaque burden, reflected by yellow arc (r=−0.36, p&lt;0.001) and YCR (r=−0.36, p&lt;0.001) (Figure 2). After adjusting age, gender and ACS, calcification arc (p&lt;0.001) and YCR (p&lt;0.001) continued to predict thicker calcification.

Conclusion

Thickening of calcification was associated with severer calcification arc, which was accompanied by the shrinkage of lipidic plaques. Our findings suggest the evaluation of lipidic plaque component as a potential tool to identify calcified atheroma harbouring thick calcification, which may cause a greater risk of stent underexpansion.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Deterioration of cardiogenic shock after acute myocardial infarction defined by the society for cardiovascular angiography and intervention cardiogenic shock classification scheme

Background

Cardiogenic shock (CS) in patients with AMI presents worse cardiovascular outcomes, which suggests the need for better risk stratification and management. The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Intervention (SCAI) has recently proposed CS classification scheme, which stratifies CS into 5 groups according to hypotension and hypoperfusion. While stage A and B exhibits CS without hypotension and/or hypoperfusion, their clinical condition could rapidly deteriorate into stage C-E. However, clinical characteristics and in-hospital outcomes of CS exhibiting its deterioration remains uncertain.

Purpose

To characterize AMI patients who deteriorated their CS status from stage A and B into stage C-E.

Methods

This single-center observational study included 326 consecutive AMI patients receiving primary PCI who presented CS stage A and B on arrival (2019.09.01–2021.09.30). Deterioration of CS (D-CS) was defined as the progression from stage A and B on arrival to stage C-E after primary PCI. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared in those with and without D-CS.

Results

D-CS was identified in 16.0% of entire subjects (=52/326). Of these, 94.2 and 5.8% of them exhibited stage C and E, respectively (Figure). Patients with D-CS more likely presented STEMI (84.6 vs. 67.9%, p=0.01) with a lower systolic BP (sBP) level (130±31 vs. 148±26mmHg, p&lt;0.001) and a reduced LVEF (43±13 vs. 51±9%, p&lt;0.001), whereas there was no significant difference in lactate level (1.5±0.4 vs. 1.2±0.3 mmol/L, p=0.22). Pre-TIMI flow grade 0–1 (69.2 vs. 47.8%, p=0.006), left main trunk stenosis (9.6 vs. 1.5%, p=0.007) and chronic total occlusion (21.2 vs. 8.4%, p=0.01) were more frequently observed in those with D-CS. Despite achieving a shorter onset-to-reperfusion time (199 vs. 276 minutes, p=0.002), D-CS was associated with in-hospital all-cause mortality after adjusting clinical characteristics (HR=33.6, 95% CI: 2.2–502.0, p=0.01). Furthermore, mechanical circulatory support (MCS) (30.8 vs. 0%, p&lt;0.001) was more frequently required in patients with D-CS (IABP: 28.8 vs. 0%, p&lt;0.001, ECMO: 11.5 vs. 0%, p&lt;0.001, Impella: 3.8 vs. 0%, p=0.02). Further analysis identified sBP (HR=0.98, 95% CI: 0.97–1.00, p=0.008), LVEF (HR=0.94, 95% CI: 0.90–0.97, p&lt;0.001) and pre-TIMI flow grade 0–1 (HR=0.41, 95% CI: 0.19–0.86, p=0.01) as independent contributors to D-CS. ROC analysis demonstrated sBP &lt;135 mmHg (AUC=0.65) and LVEF &lt;50% (AUC=0.69) as best cut-off values to predict D-CS. Of note, a risk of D-CS increased in association with the number of these three factors (p&lt;0.001), and 44.0% of those with all of these factors presented D-CS (Figure).

Conclusion

16.0% of AMI without any hypotension/hypoperfusion on arrival exhibited deterioration of CS status on SCAI classification. The combination of sBP, LVEF and pre-TIMI flow grade could help to identify AMI subjects with a risk of D-CS, who may benefit from early adoption of intensified management including MCS prior to PCI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Robotic Spleen-Preserving Distal Pancreatectomy with Preservation of Splenic Vessels Using the Gastrohepatic Ligament Approach: The Superior Window Approach in the Kimura Technique

Minimally invasive spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) is technically challenging, and only a few reports have described surgical approaches for minimally invasive SPDP. This report demonstrates our novel gastrohepatic ligament approach in robotic SPDP with preservation of the splenic vessels (the superior window approach in the Kimura technique). Our gastrohepatic ligament approach for robotic SPDP included four steps. First, the gastrohepatic ligament was divided extensively, and the pancreas was confirmed (step 1). In this step, we did not lift the stomach, nor did we divide the gastrocolic ligament. Next, the superior and inferior borders of the pancreas were dissected, and the tunneling of the pancreas on the superior mesenteric vein was performed (step 2). Following the division of the pancreas (step 3), the pancreatic body and tail were dissected from the medial to the lateral side with preservation of the splenic vessels (step 4). Using this approach, the pancreas can be directly accessed via the gastrohepatic ligament route and dissected without division of the gastrocolic ligament or retraction of the stomach. The present approach for robotic SPDP preserves splenic vessels, facilitating easy access to the pancreas with minimal dissection, and may be optional in selected patients, including those with low body mass index.

Feasibility of local therapy for recurrent pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Despite advances in perioperative management, recurrence after curative pancreatectomy is a critical issue in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The significance of local therapy for recurrent PDAC remains unclear.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of patients with PDAC who underwent curative resection at our institution between January 2009 and December 2019. We examined the patterns of relapse and assessed the clinical outcomes of patients with recurrence who underwent local therapy, including surgical resection, radiotherapy, and radiofrequency ablation.

RESULTS

A total of 246 patients with PDAC who underwent R0 or R1 resection were included in this study. The 3-year overall survival (OS) rate was 39.8%, and the 1-year recurrence-free survival rate was 51.2% for the entire population. Recurrence was observed in 172/246 (69.9%) patients, including multiple site recurrences in 50, liver metastasis in 41, locoregional recurrence in 34, and peritoneal dissemination in 27. Of the 172 patients, treatment was administered in 137 (79.7%), and 16 received local therapy, including surgical resection (n = 13), radiotherapy (n = 5), and RFA (n = 1). PS-matched analysis revealed that patients with recurrence who were treated with chemotherapy combined with local therapy showed better post-recurrence survival rates than those treated with chemotherapy alone (P = 0.016). Detailed clinical courses of these patients are presented in the main manuscript.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that a multimodal approach may improve the clinical outcomes of patients with recurrent PDAC.

Impact of Amino Acids Nutrition Following Gastrectomy in Gastric Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND/AIM

Postoperative body weight loss (BWL) and skeletal muscle loss (SML) after gastrectomy are associated with a decline in quality of life and worse longterm prognosis in gastric cancer (GC) patients. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of amino acids nutrition on BWL and SML in the early period following gastrectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The parameters of body composition were measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis in the patients undergoing radical gastrectomy for GC and analyzed retrospectively. Patients received either peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) of 4.3% glucose fluid with regular diet (control group, n=43) or PPN of 7.5% glucose fluid containing amino acids plus oral nutritional supplement (ONS) rich in protein with regular diet (amino acids group, n=40) following gastrectomy. The percentages of BWL and SML from preoperative values to those at 7 days and 1 month after surgery were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The %BWL and %SML at 7 days after surgery were significantly lower in the amino acids group than those in the control group (%BWL, -2.4±1.7% vs. -4.2±1.8%; p<0.0001, %SML, -4.1±3.8 vs. -6.5±3.8; p=0.006). Moreover, the %BWL at 1 month after surgery was significantly lower in the amino acids group compared to that in the control group (- 4.6±2.9% vs. -6.1±2.6%; p=0.01); however, the %SML was similar between the two groups. The hematological nutritional parameters were similar between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Amino acids nutrition by PPN and ONS following gastrectomy prevented postoperative BWL and SML in the early period after surgery in GC patients.

Favorable control of hepatocellular carcinoma with peritoneal dissemination by surgical resection using indocyanine green fluorescence imaging: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

The optimal management for peritoneal dissemination in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma remains unclear. Although several reports have described the usefulness of surgical resection, the indications should be carefully considered. Herein, we report the case of a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma with peritoneal recurrence who underwent surgical resection using an indocyanine green fluorescence navigation system and achieved favorable disease control.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 45-year-old Asian woman underwent left hemihepatectomy for a ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma. Seventeen months after the initial surgery, a single nodule near the cut surface of the liver was detected on computed tomography, along with elevation of tumor markers. The patient was diagnosed with peritoneal metastasis and underwent a surgical resection. Twelve months later, a single nodule on the dorsal side of the right hepatic lobe was detected on computed tomography, and we performed surgical resection. Indocyanine green (0.5 mg/kg) was intravenously administered 3 days before surgery, and the indocyanine green fluorescence imaging system revealed clear green fluorescence in the tumor, which helped us perform complete resection. Indocyanine green fluorescence enabled the detection of additional lesions that could not be identified by preoperative imaging, especially in the second metastasectomy. There was no further recurrence at 3 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

When considering surgical intervention for peritoneal recurrence in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, complete resection is mandatory. Given that disseminated nodules are sometimes too small to be detected by preoperative imaging studies, intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence may be an essential tool for determining the indications for surgical resection.

AB0667 EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE VARIATION ON SERUM KL-6 LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS

Background

Serum Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) levels has much evidence as a biomarker about the progression and prognosis of interstitial lung disease (ILD), including systemic sclerosis (SSc)-associated ILD1-4. However, serum KL-6 levels often fluctuate regardless of the progression of ILD. This sometimes mislead the evaluation of the disease activity, however, the reason for the fluctuation has not been clarified.

Objectives

We tested the hypothesis that serum KL-6 levels are affected by ambient temperature in patients with SSc.

Methods

We defined the warm season（May–October）as the period when the ambient temperature was above the Tokyo metropolitan average ambient temperature announced by the Japan Meteorological Agency, and the cold season (November–April）as the period when the ambient temperature was below the average. ILD was classified based on chest CT findings. Among SSc patients who had visited our department since May 2018, we selected those who had data of serum KL-6 levels at least 3 times in warm and cold seasons from October 2014 to September 2021, respectively. Patients having malignancy were excluded after confirmation of the onset of malignancy using medical record retrospectively. The difference in serum KL-6 levels between warm and cold seasons was evaluated by Wilcoxon’s rank-sum test.

Results

In total, 252 patients with SSc were included. Median age was 66.3 years, with median disease duration of 13.5 (8.9–19.2）years, diffuse cutaneous type of 94 (37.3%）patients, and concomitant ILD of 120（47.6%）patients (Table 1). The median follow-up was 6.4 (4.4–6.8）years, with median KL-6 measurement of 24（14–39）times. Serum KL-6 levels were significantly higher in the cold season than that in the warm season, with a greater difference in the group with ILD（536 IU/L vs. 492 IU/L, p = 0.0012 in the group with ILD, 364 IU/L vs. 345 IU/L in the group without ILD, p = 0.0028）.

Table 1.

Patients characteristics

With ILD (n=120)Without ILD (n=132)P valueFemale, n (%)110 (43.7)128 (52.4)0.1Age, years (IQR)65.8(56.1–73.4)66.4(56.0–72.5)0.77Disease duration, years (IQR)14.0 (9.8-21.0)13.0 (8.7-18.0)0.23Modified Rodnan skin score (IQR)10 (4-15)6 (2-11)0.0017Diffuse SSc, n (%)53 (40.2)27 (20.5)<0.001Pulmonary hypertension, n (%)4 (3.3)3 (2.3)0.71ANA positive, n (%)98 (81.7)112 (84.8)0.50SSc-related autoantibody, n (%)98 (81.7)112 (84.8)0.50Anti-centromere antibody, n (%)17 (14.2)86 (71.7)<0.0001Anti-topoisomeraseⅠ antibody, n (%)63 (52.5)8 (6.1)<0.0001Anti-RNA polymerase Ⅲ antibody, n (%)7 (5.8)11 (8.3)0.62Anti-U1-RNP antibody, n (%)15 (12.5)13 (9.8)0.54KL-6, IU/L (IQR)548 (384–876.8)233 (191.3–302)<0.0001KL-6 measurement, times (IQR)33.5(20-45)18.5(12.3-28)<0.0001Steroid use, n (%)68 (56.7)22 (16.7)<0.0001Cyclophosphamide, n (%)44 (36.7)12 (9.1)<0.0001Other Immunosuppressive agents, n (%)31 (25.8)0.002

Conclusion

Our results suggest that cold ambient temperature may affect serum KL-6 levels in patients with SSc.

References

[1]Distler O, et al. Eur Respir J.2020;55:1902026.

[2]Kuwana M et al. J Rheumatol 2016;43:1825-31

[3]Volkmann et al. Arthritis Rheumatol.2019;71:2059-2067

[4]Elhai M et al. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2019;71:972-982.

Figure 1.

Disclosure of Interests

Hikaru Hirose Grant/research support from: Bayer Yakuhin, Ltd, Tomoaki Higuchi: None declared, Kae Takagi: None declared, Akiko Tochimoto: None declared, Yasushi Kawaguchi: None declared, Masayoshi Harigai Speakers bureau: AbbVie Japan, Ayumi, Boehringer Ingelheim Japan, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai, Eisai, Eli Lilly Japan, GlaxoSmithKline, Kissei, Pfizer Japan Inc, Takeda, Teijin, Consultant of: AbbVie Japan, Boehringer Ingelheim Japan, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Kissei, Teijin, Grant/research support from: AbbVie Japan, Asahi Kasei, Astellas, Ayumi, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai, Daiichi-Sankyo, Eisai, Kissei, Mitsubishi Tanabe, Nippon Kayaku, Sekisui Medical, Shionogi, Taisho, Takeda, Teijin

The Gastrohepatic Ligament Approach in Robotic Spleen-Preserving Distal Pancreatectomy with Resection of the Splenic Vessels: The Superior Window Approach in the Warshaw Technique

BACKGROUND

There have been few studies reporting on the surgical approaches of minimally invasive spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP). Herein, we present two cases who underwent robotic SPDP with resection of the splenic vessels using our novel gastrohepatic ligament approach (the superior window approach in the Warshaw technique).

METHODS

Our gastrohepatic ligament approach in robotic SPDP consists of four steps: step 1, the gastrohepatic ligament transection; step 2, dissection around the pancreas; step 3, transection of the pancreas; and step 4, resection of the splenic vessels (the Warshaw technique).

RESULTS

Starting with the gastrohepatic ligament transection, the pancreas was directly dissected with neither dissecting the gastrocolic ligament nor retracting the stomach. The mean operative time was 217 min with minimal estimated blood loss. Both of the patients had no postoperative morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS

The gastrohepatic ligament approach may be helpful and optional in robotic SPDP with the Warshaw technique.

OP0112 THE EVER-LARGEST ASIAN GWAS FOR SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS AND TRANS-POPULATION META-ANALYSIS IDENTIFIED SEVEN NOVEL LOCI AND A CANDIDATE CAUSAL SNP IN A CIS-REGULATORY ELEMENT OF THE FCGR REGION

Background

Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified 29 disease-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for systemic sclerosis (SSc) in non-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) regions (1-7). While these GWASs have clarified genetic architectures of SSc, study subjects were mainly Caucasians limiting application of the findings to Asians.

Objectives

The study was conducted to identify novel causal variants for SSc specific to Japanese subjects as well as those shared with European population. We also aimed to clarify mechanistic effects of the variants on pathogenesis of SSc.

Methods

A total of 114,108 subjects comprising 1,499 cases and 112,609 controls were enrolled in the two-staged study leading to the ever-largest Asian GWAS for SSc. After applying a strict quality control both for genotype and samples, imputation was conducted using the reference panel of the phase 3v5 1,000 genome project data combined with a high-depth whole-genome sequence data of 3,256 Japanese subjects. We conducted logistic regression analyses and also combined the Japanese GWAS results with those of Europeans (6) by an inverse-variance fixed-effect model. Polygenicity and enrichment of functional annotations were evaluated by linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC), Haploreg and IMPACT programs. We also constructed polygenic risk score (PRS) to predict SSc development.

Results

We identified three (FCRLA-FCGR, TNFAIP3, PLD4) and four (EOMES, ESR1, SLC12A5, TPI1P2) novel loci in Japanese GWAS and a trans-population meta-analysis, respectively. One of Japanese novel risk SNPs, rs6697139, located within FCGR gene clusters had a strong effect size (OR 2.05, P=4.9×10-11). We also found the complete LD variant, rs10917688, was positioned in cis-regulatory element and binding motif for an immunomodulatory transcription factor IRF8 in B cells, another genome-wide significant locus in our trans-ethnic meta-analysis and the previous European GWAS. Notably, the association of risk allele of rs10917688 was significant only in the presence of the risk allele of the IRF8. Intriguingly, rs10917688 was annotated as one enhancer-related histone marks, H3K4me1, in B cells, implying that FCGR gene(s) in B cells may play an important role in the pathogenesis of SSc. Furhtermore, significant heritability enrichment of active histone marks and a transcription factor C-Myc were found in B cells both in European and Japanese populations by LDSC and IMPACT, highlighting a possibility of a shared disease mechanism where abnormal B-cell activation may be one of the key drivers for the disease development. Finally, PRS using effects sizes of European GWAS moderately fit in the development of Japanese SSc (AUC 0.593), paving a path to personalized medicine for SSc.

Conclusion

Our study identified seven novel susceptibility loci in SSc. Downstream analyses highlighted a novel disease mechanism of SSc where an interactive role of FCGR gene(s) and IRF8 may accelerate the disease development and B cells may play a key role on the pathogenesis of SSc.

References

[1]F. C. Arnett et al. Ann Rheum Dis, 2010.

[2]T. R. Radstake et al. Nat Genet, 2010.

[3]Y. Allanore et al. PLoS Genet, 2011.

[4]O. Gorlova et al. PLoS Genet, 2011.

[5]C. Terao et al. Ann Rheum Dis, 2017.

[6]E. López-Isac et al. Nat Commun, 2019.

[7]W. Pu et al. J Invest Dermatol, 2021.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Adenomatoid mesothelioma arising from the diaphragm: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Adenomatoid mesothelioma is a rare subtype of malignant mesothelioma that can be confused with adenomatoid tumors, which are classified as benign. The clinical features and optimal management of adenomatoid mesothelioma have not been elucidated in the literature. In this report, we present an extremely rare case of adenomatoid mesothelioma that developed on the peritoneal surface of the diaphragm as well as a literature review of adenomatoid mesothelioma in the abdominal cavity.

CASE PRESENTATION

The patient was a 61-year-old Japanese woman who had undergone resection of a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor of the hand 18 years prior. She was diagnosed with clinical stage I lung adenocarcinoma on follow-up chest radiography. Simultaneously, a 20-mm enhancing nodule with slow growth on the right diaphragm was detected on contrast-enhanced computed tomography. She presented no specific clinical symptoms. At this point, the lesion was suspected to be a hypervascular tumor of borderline malignancy, such as a solitary fibrous tumor. After a left upper lobectomy for lung adenocarcinoma, she was referred to our department, and laparoscopic tumor resection was performed. Adenomatoid tumors were also considered based on the histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses, but we made the final diagnosis of adenomatoid mesothelioma using the results of the genetic profile. The patient remains alive, with no recurrence noted 6 months after surgery.

CONCLUSION

We encountered a valuable case of adenomatoid mesothelioma of peritoneal origin. There are some previously reported cases of adenomatoid mesothelioma and adenomatoid tumors that may need to be recategorized according to the current classification. It is important to accumulate and share new findings to clarify the clinicopathological characteristics and genetic status of adenomatoid mesothelioma.

Optimal surveillance of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas focusing on remnant pancreas recurrence after surgical resection

BACKGROUND

The international consensus guidelines for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas (IPMN) presented clinical features as indications for surgery. Whereas surveillance for recurrence, including de novo lesions, is essential, optimal surveillance protocols have not been established.

AIM AND METHODS

This study aimed to assess the clinical features of recurrence at the remnant pancreas (Rem-Panc) and extra-pancreas (Ex-Panc) after surgery for IPMN. Ninety-one patients of IPMN that underwent detailed preoperative assessment and pancreatectomy were retrospectively analyzed, focusing especially on the type of recurrence.

RESULTS

The IPMNs were finally diagnosed as low-grade dysplasia (LDA, n = 42), high-grade dysplasia (HAD, n = 19), and invasive carcinoma (IPMC, n = 30). Recurrence was observed in 26 patients (29%), of which recurrence was seen at Rem-Panc in 19 patients (21%) and Ex-Panc in 7 patients (8%). The frequency of Rem-Panc recurrence was 10% in LDA, 21% in HDA, and 37% in IPMC. On the other hand, Ex-Panc recurrence was observed only in IPMC (23%). Ex-Panc recurrence showed shorter median recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) than Rem-Panc recurrence (median RFS 8 months vs. 35 months, p < 0.001; median OS 25 months vs. 72 months, p < 0.001). Regarding treatment for Rem-Panc recurrence, repeat pancreatectomy resulted in better OS than no repeat pancreatectomy (MST 36 months vs. 15.5 months, p = 0.033). On multivariate analysis, main duct stenosis or disruption as a preoperative feature (hazard ratio [HR] 10.6, p = 0.002) and positive surgical margin (HR 4.4, p = 0.018) were identified as risk factors for Rem-Panc recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk factors for Rem-Panc and Ex-Panc recurrence differ. Therefore, optimal surveillance on these features is desirable to ensure that repeat pancreatectomy for Rem-Panc recurrence can be an appropriate surgical intervention.

Prognostic Value of the Regional Lymph Node Station in Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor

BACKGROUND/AIM

Little is known regarding the impact of lymph node dissection on survival benefit after curative resection for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of lymph node dissection based on tumor location of PNET.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective study, including 50 patients with surgical resection for PNET between 2004 and 2020, was performed. The efficacy index (EI) was calculated by multiplication of the incidence of lymph node metastasis (LNM) at the station and the 5-year survival rate of patients with LNM at the station.

RESULTS

In the pancreatic head tumors, the peri-pancreatic head and superior mesenteric artery lymph node stations had high EI of 13.3 and 25, respectively. In contrast, other stations, including stations 8 and 12, had zero EI. In the pancreatic body and tail tumors, only the splenic artery lymph node station had a survival benefit from lymph node dissection with an EI of 6.7.

CONCLUSION

The extent of lymph node dissection for PNET should be decided based on the efficacy of lymph node dissection in accordance with tumor location. Our findings may be helpful in determining the extent of lymph node dissection required.

Pathophysiological Analysis of Uninephrectomized db/db Mice as a Model of Severe Diabetic Kidney Disease

Diabetic nephropathy, included in diabetic kidney disease (DKD), is the primary disease leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or dialysis treatment, accounting for more than 40% of all patients with ESRD or receiving dialysis. Developing new therapeutics to prevent the transition to ESRD or dialysis treatment requires an understanding of the pathophysiology of DKD and an appropriate animal model for drug efficacy studies. In this study, we investigated the pathophysiology of diabetic kidney disease with type 2 diabetes in uninephrectomized db/db mice. In addition, the nephrectomized db/db mice from 10 weeks to 42 weeks were used to assess the efficacy of long-term administration of the angiotensin-II–receptor antagonist losartan. The blood and urinary biochemical parameters and the blood pressure which is a main pharmacological endpoint of the losartan therapy, were periodically measured. And at the end, histopathological analysis was performed. Uninephrectomized db/db mice clearly developed obesity and hyperglycemia from young age. Furthermore, they showed renal pathophysiological changes, such as increased urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR) (the peak value 3104±986 in 40-week-old mice), glomerular hypertrophy and increased fibrotic areas in the tubulointerstitial tubules. The blood pressure in the losartan group was significantly low compared to the normotensive Vehicle group. However, as expected, Losartan suppressed the increase in UACR (829±500) indicating the medication was sufficient, but the histopathological abnormalities including tubular interstitial fibrosis did not improve. These results suggest that the uninephrectomized db/db mice are useful as an animal model of the severe DKD indicated by the comparison of the efficacy of losartan in this model with the efficacy of losartan in clinical practice.

Surgical resection of mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasm in the biliary system: a report of two cases

BACKGROUND

Mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasm (MINEN) is a rare disease and there is scarce literature on its diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. We encountered two unusual cases of MINEN in the biliary tract, one in the ampulla of Vater and the other in the distal bile duct. In this report, we describe the clinical course of these two cases in detail.

CASE PRESENTATION

Case 1: A 69-year-old woman presented with a chief complaint of epigastric pain. When endoscopic sphincterotomy and retrograde biliary drainage were performed for gallstone pancreatitis, an ulcerated lesion was found in the ampulla of the Vater. Based on the biopsy results, the lesion was diagnosed as the ampulla of Vater carcinoma and subtotal stomach-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (SSPPD) was performed. Postoperative histopathological examination revealed the coexistence of adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine carcinoma components, consistent with the diagnosis of MINEN. In addition, lymph node metastasis was found on the dorsal side of the pancreas and the metastatic component was adenocarcinoma. Adjuvant chemotherapy with etoposide and cisplatin was administered for 6 months, and presently the patient is alive without recurrence 64 months after surgery. Case 2: A 79-year-old man presented with a chief complaint of anorexia. Cholangiography showed severe stenosis of the distal bile duct. A biopsy was conducted from the stenotic lesion and it revealed the lesion to be adenocarcinoma. A diagnosis of distal bile duct carcinoma was made, and SSPPD was performed. Histopathological examination revealed the coexistence of adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine carcinoma components, and the tumor was confirmed as MINEN of the distal bile duct. No adjuvant chemotherapy was administered due to the poor performance status. 7 months later, the patient was found to have a liver metastasis.

CONCLUSION

We experienced two valuable cases of biliary MINEN. To identify better treatments, it is important to consider the diversity of individual cases and to continue sharing a variety of cases with different presentations.

Prognostic Value of the Regional Lymph Node Station in Pancreatoduodenectomy for Ampullary Carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIM

The optimal extent of lymph node dissection for ampullary carcinoma is controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of lymph node dissection for ampullary carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2000 and 2020, a total of 75 patients undergoing radical resection for ampullary carcinoma were included. The efficacy index (EI) was calculated by multiplication of the frequency of lymph node metastasis (LNM) at the station and the 5-year survival rate of patients with metastasis at the station.

RESULTS

Out of 75 patients, 14 had LNM. The EI for the peri-pancreatic head (station 13 and 17) and superior mesenteric artery (station 14) lymph node were 4.4 and 3.5, respectively. Whereas the peri-gastric (station 5 and 6), common hepatic artery (station 8), and liver hilum (station 12) lymph node stations had zero EI. Although the number of patients with the station 16 dissected was small (9%), the para-aortic (station 16) lymph nodes had the highest EI of 14.3 despite being distant lymph nodes.

CONCLUSION

We identified the distribution of LNM and survival benefit of lymph node dissection for ampullary carcinoma. Our results suggest that the optimal extent of lymph node dissection for ampullary carcinoma could be reconsidered.

Adult Bochdalek hernia following living donor left hepatectomy repaired by thoracoscopy-assisted surgery: A case report

Bochdalek hernia is a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (DH). Herein, we report a case of adult Bochdalek hernia following living donor hepatectomy repaired by thoracoscopy-assisted surgery. A 36-year-old man underwent living donor left hepatectomy. Four months later, the patient presented with acute epigastric pain. Computed tomography found the left-sided DH in which the stomach was incarcerated into the pleural cavity without ischemic changes. As endoscopic intervention was unsuccessful, the herniated stomach was repositioned by thoracoscopy-assisted surgery. The 3-cm hernia orifice was found to have a smooth edge with no hernia sac, suggesting Bochdalek hernia, and the defect was primarily closed. The patient was followed up for 20 months without hernia recurrence. This is the first presentation of a case of Bochdalek hernia following donor hepatectomy. In cases of early detected DH, primary repair via a transthoracic approach with thoracoscopy-assisted surgery is safe and feasible.

Performance with robotic surgery versus 3D- and 2D-laparoscopy during pancreatic and biliary anastomoses in a biotissue model: pooled analysis of two randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Robotic surgery may improve surgical performance during minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy as compared to 3D- and 2D-laparoscopy but comparative studies are lacking. This study assessed the impact of robotic surgery versus 3D- and 2D-laparoscopy on surgical performance and operative time using a standardized biotissue model for pancreatico- and hepatico-jejunostomy using pooled data from two randomized controlled crossover trials (RCTs).

METHODS

Pooled analysis of data from two RCTs with 60 participants (36 surgeons, 24 residents) from 11 countries (December 2017-July 2019) was conducted. Each included participant completed two pancreatico- and two hepatico-jejunostomies in biotissue using 3D-robotic surgery, 3D-laparoscopy, or 2D-laparoscopy. Primary outcomes were the objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS: 12-60) rating, scored by observers blinded for 3D/2D and the operative time required to complete both anastomoses. Sensitivity analysis excluded participants with excess experience compared to others.

RESULTS

A total of 220 anastomoses were completed (robotic 80, 3D-laparoscopy 70, 2D-laparoscopy 70). Participants in the robotic group had less surgical experience [median 1 (0-2) versus 6 years (4-12), p < 0.001], as compared to the laparoscopic group. Robotic surgery resulted in higher OSATS ratings (50, 43, 39 points, p = .021 and p < .001) and shorter operative time (56.5, 65.0, 81.5 min, p = .055 and p < .001), as compared to 3D- and 2D-laparoscopy, respectively, which remained in the sensitivity analysis.

CONCLUSION

In a pooled analysis of two RCTs in a biotissue model, robotic surgery resulted in better surgical performance scores and shorter operative time for biotissue pancreatic and biliary anastomoses, as compared to 3D- and 2D-laparoscopy.

Left Hemihepatectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Following Esophagectomy with Retrosternal Gastric Tube Reconstruction for Esophageal Cancer

Approximately 4% of patients with esophageal cancer develop a second primary malignancy in the upper gastrointestinal trunk. However, hepatectomy following esophagectomy for esophageal cancer has rarely been reported. We report the case of a 70-year-old man who underwent an esophagectomy for esophageal cancer with retrosternal gastric tube reconstruction. Nine years later, he developed hepatocellular carcinoma with tumor thrombus involving the left portal vein, and was successfully treated with left hemihepatectomy. Special attention should be paid to avoiding incidental injury of the gastric tube as well as the right gastroepiploic artery during the hepatectomy.

Multiple Hepatolithiasis Following Hepaticojejunostomy Successfully Treated with Left Hemihepatectomy and Double Hepaticojejunostomy Reconstruction

Surgical intervention for hepatolithiasis following hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) has rarely been reported. Herein, we present a case of post-HJ multiple hepatolithiasis treated with left hemihepatectomy with double HJ reconstruction. A 72-year-old woman who had undergone HJ for iatrogenic bile duct injury developed repeated cholangitis due to complicated hepatolithiasis accompanied by an atrophied left hepatic lobe and HJ stricture. Since endoscopic intervention was unsuccessful, the patient underwent left hemihepatectomy with HJ re-anastomoses of the common hepatic duct and left hepatic duct (double HJ technique). The double HJ technique with hepatectomy can be a useful option for treating complicated hepatolithiasis following HJ.

Technique of vessel-skeletonized parenchyma-sparing hepatectomy for the oncological treatment of bilobar colorectal liver metastases

BACKGROUND

To aid in the oncological management of multiple bilobar colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs), we describe a new surgical procedure, VEssel-Skeletonized PArenchyma-sparing Hepatectomy (VESPAH).

STUDY DESIGN

Of 152 patients with CRLMs treated with hepatectomy, 33 patients had multiple bilobar liver metastases (≥8 liver metastases); their surgical procedures and clinical outcomes were retrospectively summarized and compared between those who underwent VESPAH and those who underwent major hepatectomy (Major Hx).

RESULTS

Of the 33 patients, 20 patients were resected by VESPAH (the VESPAH group) and 13 patients by major hepatectomy (Major Hx group). The median number of CRLMs was 13 (range, 8-53) in the VESPAH group and 10 (range, 8-41) in the Major Hx group (P=0.511). No operative mortality nor severe morbidity was observed in either group. The VESPAH group showed earlier recovery of remnant liver function after surgery than the Major Hx group; the incidence of grade B/C post hepatectomy liver failure was 5% in the VESPAH group and 38% in the Major Hx group, P=0.048). Intrahepatic tumor recurrence was confirmed in 14 (70%) and 7 (54%) patients in the VESPAH and Major Hx groups, respectively (P=0.416). There was no significant difference in median overall survival (OS) after hepatectomy between the two groups; the median OS was 47 months in the VESPAH group and 33 months in the Major Hx group (P=0.481). The VESPAH group showed the higher induction rate of adjuvant chemotherapy within 2 months after surgery (P=0.002) and total number of repeat hepatectomy for intrahepatic recurrence (P=0.060) than the Major Hx group.

CONCLUSIONS

VESPAH enables us to clear surgical navigation by hepatic vessel skeletonization and may enhance patient tolerability of not only adjuvant chemotherapy but also repeat hepatectomies during the patients' lifetimes.

Robotic Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreatosplenectomy Using the Supracolic Anterior Superior Mesenteric Artery Approach

BACKGROUND

Radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy (RAMPS) is the standardized approach in open pancreatic resection for pancreatic body and tail cancer. However, few studies have described regarding robotic RAMPS for pancreatic cancer. We herein present our techniques of robotic RAMPS using the supracolic anterior superior mesenteric artery (SMA) approach with the ventral view.

METHODS

The patient was a 75-year-old female with a diagnosis of pancreatic body cancer. Following neoadjuvant chemotherapy with gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel, robotic RAMPS was performed. Our techniques of robotic RAMPS include four steps: (1) gastrocolic ligament division, (2) dissection of superior and inferior border of the pancreas, (3) division of the pancreas, and (4) retroperitoneal dissection.

RESULTS

The operative time was 251 min with an estimated blood loss of 10 mL. The uneventful postoperative course was observed. The final pathology confirmed R0 surgical resection.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic RAMPS using the supracolic anterior SMA approach is safe and feasible for pancreatic body and tail cancer. Standardization and precise anatomical knowledge are key elements of performing robotic RAMPS.

Kidney Autotransplantation for Renal Artery Aneurysm: Case Series and a Systematic Review

OBJECTIVES

Renal artery aneurysm (RAA) is a rare vascular disease. Kidney autotransplantation (KAT) is the treatment option when endovascular approach is not available. However, the evidence on KAT for RAA is mostly limited to small case series or reports. Here, we describe our 2 center experience of KAT for RAA, and provide the results of our systematic literature review to evaluate the outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective 2 center study was conducted in patients undergoing KAT for RAA between 2010 and 2018. Moreover, a systematic review was performed on medical databases to evaluate the outcomes of KAT for RAA.

RESULTS

Nine patients were surgically treated at our institutions: eight with laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN), and 1 with open followed heterotopic KAT. All RAAs were ex-vivo reconstructed, and in 3 cases a vein graft was used for reconstruction. There were 2 postoperative major complications including 1 graft loss. In the systematic review, 102 studies with 355 patients were included. In 35 patients (9.9%) a minimal invasive approach was performed. The incidence of postoperative major complications and graft loss was 9.4% and 4.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experiences showed that laparoscopic approach for nephrectomy followed heterotopic KAT was feasible with good postoperative outcomes. KAT is an effective treatment for RAA when endovascular approach is not feasible for interpretation of the outcomes, the quality and sample size of the evidence should be taken into consideration.