Re-consideration of Lymph Node Metastasis in Pancreatic Cancer Patients Following Radical Resection: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND/AIM

Perioperative chemotherapy has become more common in patients with pancreatic cancer (PC), and the significance of lymph node (LN) metastasis and the role of surgical resection in PC have gradually evolved. In the present study, we reconsidered the significance of LN metastasis for patients with PC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed 142 PC patients who underwent radical resection at our hospital between September 2012 and December 2021. Patients were divided into three groups based on the performance of preoperative chemotherapy, as follows: up-front surgery (US, n=109), neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC, n=22), and conversion surgery (CS, n=11). The characteristics of patients with LN metastasis in the US group were clarified, and a prognostic analysis was performed. The prognostic impact of LN metastasis in the NAC/CS group was examined and compared to that in the US group.

RESULTS

Multivariate analysis revealed that high CA19-9 levels, large tumor size, and positive lymphatic invasion were significantly associated with LN metastasis. LN metastasis and portal vein invasion were independent poor prognostic factors in multivariate analysis. Patients without LN metastasis in the NAC group tended to have a better prognosis than those in the US group; however, the prognosis of patients with LN metastasis was similar between the two groups. In the CS and US groups, the prognosis was comparable for patients with and without LN metastasis.

CONCLUSION

LN metastasis is a notably poor prognostic factor for PC patients, even after NAC, and more aggressive perioperative treatments may be considered for these patients.

A Case of Pathologically Complete Response After Nivolumab Combined with Chemotherapy in a Gastric Cancer Patient with Virchow's Lymph Node Metastasis

Gastric cancer with Virchow's lymph node metastasis (LNM) is not indicated for initial curative surgery. Although there have been some case reports of curative resections after pre-operative treatment, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), there is no consensus regarding the optimal timing of surgery. We describe a rare case of initially unresectable gastric cancer treated preoperatively with nivolumab combined chemotherapy, which achieved a pathologically complete response. An 82-year-old man was referred for gastric cancer treatment. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed stomach wall thickening and swollen left supraclavicular LN. This gastric cancer was assessed as unresectable due to the presence of Virchow's LNM; therefore, chemotherapy and ICI using S-1 plus oxaliplatin plus nivolumab were administered. After three courses of treatment, the primary tumor and Virchow's LN showed a marked reduction in size. The patient underwent Virchow's LNM resection as a preliminary step to determine indications for curative surgery. A pathological examination revealed no viable cancer cells were found inside the resected LN. The patient underwent distal gastrectomy. Pathological examination revealed complete degeneration of the primary tumor and regional LN without residual carcinoma. The patient did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy and survived with no evidence of recurrence for one year after the initial treatment.

A case of pathologically complete response after preoperative chemotherapy in a pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma patient with portal vein tumor thrombosis

Preoperative treatment is being proposed as a standard treatment for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma though few cases show a pathologically complete response. On the other hand, there is no consensus regarding preoperative chemotherapy for pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma (ACC). The present study described a rare case of ACC in the pancreatic head with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) treated with preoperative chemotherapy using modified FOLFIRINOX, which achieved a pathologically complete response. A 65-year-old man was referred for consideration of treatment strategy. Contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography revealed a pancreatic tumor and PVTT. The pancreatic tumor was diagnosed as ACC by an endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Initially, the tumor was assessed as unresectable due to the presence of PVTT, and therefore, a chemotherapy using modified FOLFIRINOX was administered. After 14 courses of the chemotherapy, imaging studies revealed that the tumor and PVTT showed marked reduction in size; thus, the patient underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy with combined resection of the portal vein (PV). A pathological examination uncovered a complete degeneration of the primary tumor and the PV embolus without any residue of carcinoma. The patient did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy and survived with no evidence of recurrence for 33 months after surgery. The chemotherapy using modified FOLFIRINOX could give a complete response in patients with pancreatic ACC with PVTT.

Evaluation of the Significance of Lymphatic, Microvascular and Perineural Invasion in Patients With Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Some prognostic factors for pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PanNENs) have been reported; however, the significance of lymphatic, microvascular, and perineural invasion remains unclear. We aimed to clarify the role of these factors in PanNEN recurrence.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed 138 patients who underwent curative pancreatectomy and were pathologically diagnosed with PanNEN. We evaluated the association between clinicopathological factors and the recurrence of PanNENs.

RESULTS

The numbers of patients with lymphatic, microvascular, and perineural invasion were 34 (25%), 43 (31%) and 17 (12%), respectively. Twenty-four patients (17%) had recurrences, and the 3, 5, and 10-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates were 88%, 84%, and 76%, respectively. The recurrence sites (with duplication) were mainly the liver (twenty-two patients), followed by the lymph nodes (seven patients), and bone (two patients). In multivariate analyses, grade 2-3 and the presence of microvascular invasion were significant risk factors for RFS (hazard ratio=7.5 and 7.9, respectively). When examining outcomes according to these factors, the 5-year RFS rates of patients with risk scores of 0, 1, and 2 were 100%, 91%, and 32%, respectively (p<0.001). Even in patients with grade 1 (n=97) or limited resection (enucleation, splenic-preserving distal pancreatectomy, central pancreatectomy, and duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection, n=62), the presence of microvascular invasion was a significant risk factor for RFS (hazard ratio=13.4 and 18.0, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The presence of microvascular invasion is an independent risk factor for recurrence in patients with PanNEN.

Evaluation of Early Prognostic Factors in Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Receiving Gemcitabine Together With Nab-paclitaxel

BACKGROUND

Gemcitabine together with nab-paclitaxel (GnP) has been shown to improve outcomes in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the predictive markers for treatment effects remain unclear. This study aimed to identify early prognostic factors in patients with PDAC receiving GnP.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed 113 patients who received GnP for PDAC and evaluated the relationship between clinical factors and outcomes.

RESULTS

The median survival time (MST) was 1.2 years. In multivariate analysis, baseline carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) ≥747 U/ml [hazard ratio (HR)=1.9], baseline controlling nutrition status (CONUT) score ≥5 (HR=3.7) and changing rate of CA19-9 after two GnP cycles ≥0.69 (HR=3.7) were independent risk factors for poor prognosis. When examining outcomes according to pre-chemotherapeutic measurable factors (baseline CA19-9 and CONUT), the MSTs of patients with pre-chemotherapeutic zero risk factors (pre-low-risk group, n=63) and one or more risk factors (pre-high-risk group, n=50) were 1.7 and 0.65 years (p<0.001), respectively. The MST for those with a changing rate of CA19-9 after two GnP cycles <0.69 and ≥0.69 was significantly different in both groups (2.0 and 1.2 years in the pre-low-risk group, p<0.001; 1.0 and 0.52 years in the pre-high-risk group, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

These results may be useful for decision-making regarding treatment strategies in patients with PDAC receiving GnP.

Hepatic artery resection without reconstruction in pancreatoduodenectomy

PURPOSE

It has been reported that there are left and right hepatic arterial arcades via the blood vessels around the hilar bile duct; therefore, when the hilar bile duct is preserved, hepatic artery reconstruction may not be necessary. We compared the short-term and long-term outcomes in patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) with right hepatic artery resection without right hepatic artery reconstruction (RHAR group) with those patients who underwent conventional PD.

METHODS

All data were retrospectively collected from patient records. A 1:4-propensity score-matched case-control study was conducted in patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma who received treatment at Tokyo Women's Medical University from February 1985 to April 2015.

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference in the overall morbidity rate between the two groups. No patient in the RHAR group (10 patients) had liver failure, liver abscess, or cholangitis in the postoperative period; one patient died postoperatively because of a bleeding pseudoaneurysm in the gastroduodenal artery. The PD group (40 patients) had a significantly better median time regarding the recurrence (34 vs. 11 months, p=0.027) and 5-year disease-free survival (35% vs. 10%, p=0.027) rates than the RHAR group, which may be attributed to the presence of a more severe disease in patients in the RHAR group.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that pancreaticoduodenectomy with right hepatic artery resection without reconstruction has a comparable overall morbidity rate with that of a conventional pancreaticoduodenectomy surgery and may be performed as an alternative procedure when tumor invasion of the right hepatic artery is suspected.

Negative prognostic outcomes of percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage in distal cholangiocarcinoma: a retrospective analysis using propensity score matching

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of different types of preoperative biliary drainage for cholangiocarcinoma has been debated over the past two decades. Controversy concerning the use of percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) versus endoscopic biliary drainage (EBD) still exists. This study aimed to compare the long-term outcomes between PTBD and EBD in patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma.

METHODS

Data of patients diagnosed with distal cholangiocarcinoma who underwent preoperative PTBD or EBD from January 1999 to December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. Post-surgical outcomes, including the incidence of post-operative complications, peritoneal metastasis, disease-free survival, and overall survival, were analyzed. Survival analyses were also performed after propensity score matching in the PTBD and EBD groups.

RESULTS

The incidence of post-operative complications was similar in both groups. The 5-year estimated cumulative incidences for peritoneal metastasis were 14.7% and 7.2% in the PTBD and EBD groups, respectively (p = 0.192). The 5-year disease-free survival rates were 23.7% and 47.3% in the PTBD and EBD groups, respectively (p = 0.015). In the multi-variate analysis for overall survival, PTBD was an independent poor prognostic factor. The 5-year overall survival rates were 35.9% and 56.3% in the PTBD and EBD groups, respectively (hazard ratio 1.85, confidence interval 1.05-3.26, p = 0.035). The results after propensity score matching indicated a poorer prognosis in the PTBD group, with a 5-year survival rate of 35.9% in the PTBD group vs 56.0% in the EBD group (p = 0.044).

CONCLUSION

PTBD should be considered as a negative prognostic factor in distal cholangiocarcinoma patients.

Evaluation of the significance of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with stage ⅠA pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Although adjuvant chemotherapy is considered a standard treatment for resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), its utility in stage ⅠA patients is unclear. We aimed to investigate the recurrence rate, surgical outcome, prognostic factors, effectiveness of adjuvant chemotherapy, and determination of groups in whom adjuvant chemotherapy is effective in patients with stage ⅠA PDAC.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 73 patients who underwent pancreatectomy and were pathologically diagnosed with stage ⅠA PDAC between 2000 and 2018. We evaluated the relation between clinicopathological factors, recurrence rates, and outcomes such as the recurrence-free and disease-specific survival rates (RFS and DSS, respectively).

RESULTS

The 5-year RFS and DSS rates were 52% and 58%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, a platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) ≥ 170, prognostic nutrition index (PNI) < 47.5, and pathological grade 2 or 3 constituted risk factors for a shorter DSS (hazard ratios: 4.7, 4.6, and 4.1, respectively). Patients with 0-1 of these risk factors (low-risk group; n = 47) had significantly higher 5-year DSS rates than those with 2-3 risk factors (high-risk group; n = 26) (80% vs. 23%; P < 0.001). Patients in the low-risk group showed similar 5-year RFS rates regardless of whether they received or not adjuvant chemotherapy (75% vs 70%, respectively; P = 0.49). Contrarily, high-risk patients who underwent adjuvant chemotherapy had higher 5-year RFS rates than those who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy (32% vs 0%; P = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

In stage IA PDAC, adjuvant chemotherapy seems to be effective only in a subgroup of high-risk patients.

Drain Lipase Levels and Decreased Rate of Drain Amylase Levels as Independent Predictors of Pancreatic Fistula with Nomogram After Pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has recently been improved due to its increased safety. However, postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains a lethal complication of PD. Identifying novel clinicophysiological risk factors for POPF during the early post-PD period would help improve patient morbidity and mortality. Therefore, this retrospective study aimed to evaluate possible risk factors during the early postoperative period after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

Data from 349 patients who underwent PD between 2007 and 2012 were examined retrospectively. All patients were classified into 2 groups: group A, patients without fistulae or biochemical leaks (288 patients), and group B, those with grade B or C POPF (61 patients). Data on various clinicophysiological parameters, including serum and drain laboratory data, were collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate POPF predictors. A predictive nomogram was established for these results.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis showed that various serum and drain-related factors, such as white blood cell count, C-reactive protein levels, drain amylase (DAMY) levels, and drain lipase (DLIP) levels, were possible POPF risk factors. Multivariate analysis confirmed that postoperative day (POD) 1 DLIP levels (hazard ratio, 15.393; p = 0.037) and decreased rate (POD3/1) of DAMY levels (hazard ratio, 4.415; p = 0.028) were independent risk factors. Further, POD1 DLIP levels and decreased rate of DAMY levels were significantly lower in group A than in group B. The accuracy of nomogram was 0.810.

CONCLUSIONS

POD1 DLIP levels (> 245 U/mL) and decreased rate of DAMY levels (> 0.44) were POPF risk factors, making them possible biomarkers for POPF.

Narrowing of the remnant portal vein diameter and decreased portal vein angle are risk factors for portal vein thrombosis after perihilar cholangiocarcinoma surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the incidence, risk factors, management options, and outcomes of portal vein thrombosis following major hepatectomy for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.

METHODS

A total of 177 perihilar cholangiocarcinoma patients who (1) underwent major hepatectomy and (2) underwent investigating the portal vein morphology, which was measured by rotating the reconstructed three-dimensional images after facilitating bone removal using Aquarius iNtuition workstation between 2002 and 2018, were included. Risk factors were evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

Six patients developed portal vein thrombosis (3.4%) within a median time of 6.5 (range 0-22) days. Portal vein and hepatic artery resection were performed in 30% and 6% patients, respectively. A significant difference in the probability of the occurrence of portal vein thrombosis (PV) within 30 days was found among patients with portal vein resection, a postoperative portal vein angle < 100°, remnant portal vein diameter < 5.77 mm, main portal vein diameter > 13.4 mm, and blood loss (log-rank test, p = 0.003, p = 0.06, p < 0.0001, p = 0.01, and p = 0.03, respectively). Decreasing the portal vein angle and narrowing of the remnant PV diameter remained significant predictors on multivariate analysis (p = 0.027 and 0.002, respectively). Reoperation with thrombectomy was performed in four patients, and the other two patients were successfully treated with anticoagulants. All six patients subsequently recovered and were discharged between 25 and 70 days postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Narrowing of the remnant portal vein diameter and a decreased portal vein angle after major hepatectomy for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma are significant independent risk factors for postoperative portal vein thrombosis.

Evaluation of allowable pancreatic resection rate depending on preoperative risk factors for new-onset diabetes mellitus after distal pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

Although more patients have long-term survival after pancreatectomy, the details of pancreatogenic diabetes mellitus (DM) are still unclear. We aimed to investigate the incidence of new-onset DM (NODM) after distal pancreatectomy (DP) and to clarify the risk factors, including allowable pancreatic resection rate (PR), for NODM.

METHODS

The incidence, onset time, and risk factors for NODM were retrospectively evaluated in 150 patients who underwent DP without preoperative DM and with >5 years of postoperative follow-up between 2005 and 2015.

RESULTS

The incidence rate of NODM was 39%, and 60% of this incidence was noted within 6 months postoperatively. In the multivariate analysis, hemoglobin A1c ≥ 5.8% (odds ratio [OR] 7.6), impaired glucose tolerance and/or impaired fasting glucose (OR 4.2), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance ≥1.4 (OR 5.5), and insulinogenic index <0.7 (OR 3.9) were the preoperative risk factors for NODM. Based on these four preoperative risk factors of NODM, we made the new scoring system to predict the NODM after DP. The NODM incidence was 0%, 8%, 48%, 60%, and 86% in patients with risk scores 0 (n = 25), 1 (n = 36), 2 (n = 33), 3 (n = 35), and 4 (n = 21), respectively. PRs ≥42.1% and ≥30.9% were allowable in the preoperative risk-score 0-1 and 2-4 groups. In the former group, the NODM incidence for PR ≥ 42.1% and <42.1% was significantly different (20% vs 0%, P < 0.05). In the latter group, the NODM incidence for PR ≥ 30.9% vs <30.9% was significantly different (75% vs 23%, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We clarified the preoperative risk factors and allowable PR for NODM and recommended the use of a risk scoring system for predicting NODM preoperatively.

Prognostic Factors for Surgically Resected Intraductal Papillary Neoplasm of the Bile Duct: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

To date, postoperative prognostic factors for intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB) have not been well-established. This study aimed to examine the histopathologic features and postoperative prognosis of the two IPNB subclassifications, as well as factors affecting prognosis, based on the authors' experience at a single institution.

METHODS

The study enrolled 83 patients who underwent surgical resection for pathologically diagnosed IPNB at the authors' institution. The clinicopathologic features and postoperative outcomes for these patients were examined. The study also investigated postoperative prognostic factors for IPNB using uni- and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

More than half of the tumors (64%) diagnosed as IPNB were early-stage cancer (UICC Tis or T1). However, none were diagnosed as benign. The multivariate analysis showed that lymph node metastasis (hazard ratio [HR], 5.78; p = 0.002) and bile duct margin status with carcinoma in situ (D-CIS; HR, 5.10; p = 0.002) were independent prognostic factors, whereas MUC6 expression showed only a marginal influence on prediction of prognosis (HR, 0.32; p = 0.07). The tumor recurrence rate and the proportion of locoregional recurrence were significantly greater among the patients with D-CIS than among those with negative bile duct margins, including those patients with low-grade dysplasia. The patients with D-CIS showed a significantly poorer prognosis than those with negative bile duct margins (5-year survival, 38% versus 87%; p = 0.0002).

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of resected IPNBs showed cancer in all cases. Avoiding positive biliary stumps during surgery, including resection of carcinoma in situ, would improve the prognosis for patients with IPNB.

Importance of each high-risk stigmata and worrisome features as a predictor of high-grade dysplasia in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas

BACKGROUND

High-risk stigmata (HRS) and 'worrisome features' (WFs) are defined as predictive factors for malignancies of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs). We performed this study to determine the importance and odds ratio (OR) of each HRS and WFs as predictors for high-grade dysplasia (HGD).

METHODS

We analyzed 295 patients who underwent pancreatectomy for branch duct and mixed-type IPMN, and evaluated the association between HRS and WFs (as defined by the '2017 Fukuoka Consensus Guidelines') and HGD.

RESULTS

The proportions of patients with low-grade dysplasia (LGD), HGD, and invasive carcinoma were 47%, 28%, and 25%, respectively. Multivariate analysis comparing patients with LGD and HGD using all HRS and WFs revealed that an enhancing mural nodule ≥5 mm (OR: 4.1), pancreatitis (OR: 2.2), and thickened/enhancing cyst walls (OR: 2.2) were independent predictive factors for HGD. Based on the OR (the former factor is two points and the latter two factors are each one point), the incidence of HGD in patients with none (n = 43), one (n = 82), two (n = 25), three (n = 52), and four (n = 19) of these predictive factors were 9%, 26%, 52%, 62%, and 63%, respectively. Assuming a score of one or higher as a surgical indication, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predict value, and negative predict value of HGD were 95, 38, 44, and 91%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our derived scoring system using more important factors in HRS and WFs may be useful for predicting HGD and determining surgical indications of IPMN.

Propensity score-matched analysis of internal stent vs external stent for pancreatojejunostomy during pancreaticoduodenectomy: Japanese-Korean cooperative project

BACKGROUND

Several studies comparing internal and external stents have been conducted with the aim of reducing pancreatic fistula after PD. There is still no consensus, however, on the appropriate use of pancreatic stents for prevention of pancreatic fistula. This multicenter large cohort study aims to evaluate whether internal or external pancreatic stents are more effective in reduction of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

We reviewed 3149 patients (internal stent n = 1,311, external stent n = 1838) who underwent PD at 20 institutions in Japan and Korea between 2007 and 2013. Propensity score matched analysis was used to minimize bias from nonrandomized treatment assignment. The primary endpoint was the incidence of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula. This study was registered on the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000032402).

RESULTS

After propensity score matched analysis, clinically relevant pancreatic fistula occurred in more patients in the external stents group (280 patients, 28.7%) than in patients in the internal stents group (126 patients, 12.9%) (OR 2.713 [95% CI, 2.139-3.455]; P < 0.001). In subset analysis of a high-risk group with soft pancreas and no dilatation of the pancreatic duct, clinically relevant pancreatic fistula occurred in 90 patients (18.8%) in internal stents group and 183 patients (35.4%) in external stents group. External stents were significantly associated with increased risk for clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (OR 2.366 [95% CI, 1.753-3.209]; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Propensity score matched analysis showed that, regarding clinically relevant pancreatic fistula after PD, internal stents are safer than external stents for pancreaticojejunostomy.

Comparison of Clinicopathological Features of Biliary Neuroendocrine Carcinoma with Adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to demonstrate the clinical features and postoperative outcomes of extrahepatic bile duct (EHBD) neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) and compared with those of adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients with EHBD cancer operated in our institution between 1995 and 2015.

RESULTS

Of 475 patients, 468 had adenocarcinoma, while 7 had NEC/mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC) in this study. There were no notable preoperative and pathological features in patients with NEC/MANEC. However, patients with NEC/MANEC had a higher recurrence rate (51.8 vs. 100%, p = 0.016), poorer relapse-free survival (RFS) time (the median RFS time: 35 vs. 12 months, p = 0.006), and poorer overall survival (OS) time (the median OS time: 60 vs. 19 months, p = 0.078) than those with adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, patients with NEC/MANEC had higher rates of liver metastasis (11.9 vs. 85.7%, p < 0.001) than those with adenocarcinoma. In multivariable regression analysis, pathological type with NEC/MANEC was a risk factor for poorer RFS (p = 0.022, hazard ratio: 6.09).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with NEC/MANEC have high malignant potential and poor outcomes. It is necessary to develop an effective approach and postoperative adjuvant treatment for patients with NEC/MANEC.

Level of total bilirubin in the bile of the future remnant liver of patients with obstructive jaundice undergoing hepatectomy predicts postoperative liver failure

BACKGROUND

We investigated whether the daily level of total bilirubin in the bile (LTB) excreted from the future remnant liver (FRL) can predict post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) in patients with obstructive jaundice undergoing hepatectomy.

METHODS

Seventy-four patients who underwent biliary drainage and collection of bile juice from the FRL before undergoing right hepatectomy or right/left trisectionectomy with bile duct resection were included. The LTB from the FRL (mg/d) was calculated as the volume of the bile (dL) per day multiplied by the density of total bilirubin in the bile (mg/dL). We compared patients' characteristics with or without PHLF, which was defined as the total serum bilirubin level remaining >10 mg/dL after postoperative day 10. Then, pre- and intraoperative factors related to PHLF were examined.

RESULTS

PHLF was observed in six patients. LTB was significantly lower in the PHLF group. The LTB cut-off value for predicting PHLF, as determined using the receiver operating characteristic curve, was 56 mg/d. On multivariate analysis, LTB was found to be an independent risk factor for PHLF (P = .01, OR 35.88).

CONCLUSIONS

LTB may be a potential functional assessment in jaundiced patients before right hepatectomy and right/left trisectionectomy.

Retrospective evaluation of risk factors of postoperative varices after pancreaticoduodenectomy with combined portal vein resection

BACKGROUND

Combined portal vein (PV) resection is performed for pancreatic head cancer to achieve clear resection margins. This can be complicated by the formation of varices due to sinistral portal hypertension after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with combined PV resection. However, clinical strategies to prevent varices formation due to sinistral portal hypertension remain controversial. Moreover, the critical vein among splenic vein (SPV), inferior mesenteric vein, left gastric vein, or middle colonic vein requiring preservation to prevent the development of varices remains unclear.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients with pancreatic cancer who underwent PD with combined PV resection over 18 years at our institution. Varices were evaluated using enhanced computed tomography (CT) and endoscopy. Preoperative types of porto-mesenterico-splenic confluence, venous drainage, and venous resection types were determined by operative records and CT findings.

RESULTS

Of the 108 subjects, the incidence of postoperative varices was observed in 24.1% of cases over 5.6 months. These varices were classified into five types based on location, as pancreaticojejunostomy anastomotic (11.5%), gastrojejunostomy anastomotic (11.5%), esophageal (11.5%), splenic hilar-gastric (23.1%), and right colonic (65.4%) varices. No case of variceal bleeding occurred. Multivariate analysis showed SPV ligation as the greatest risk factor of varices (P < 0.001), with a higher incidence of left-sided varices in patients with all the SPV venous drainage sacrificed (60%) than in the others (16.7%). Therefore, sacrificing all the SPV venous drainage was the only independent risk factor of varices (P = 0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

Preservation of SPV venous drainage should be considered during SPV ligation to prevent post-PD varices.

Evaluation of preoperative prognostic factors in patients with resectable invasive intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Upfront surgery is the standard treatment for resectable invasive intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma; however, recurrence is common. Therefore, we investigated the recurrence, surgical outcome, and preoperative prognostic factors for recurrence in patients with resectable invasive intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma.

METHODS

We analyzed 111 patients who underwent upfront surgery for resectable invasive intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma between 2000 and 2017 and evaluated the relationship among clinicopathologic factors, recurrence, and outcomes.

RESULTS

The 5-year recurrence-free survival and disease-specific survival rates were 61% and 74%, respectively. The median time to recurrence was 1.1 years. In multivariate analysis, carbohydrate antigen 19-9 ≥83 U/mL (hazard ratio: 2.8 and 3.1), tumor size ≥2.2 cm (hazard ratio: 3.5 and 4.7), and pathologic tubular adenocarcinoma grade 2 (hazard ratio: 3.1 and 5.2) were risk factors for a shorter recurrence-free survival and disease-specific survival, respectively. Lymph node metastasis (hazard ratio: 3.9) was also a risk factor for a shorter disease-specific survival. When examining outcomes according to preoperatively measurable factors (carbohydrate antigen 19-9 ≥83 U/mL and tumor size ≥2.2 cm), the 5-year recurrence rates in patients with none (n = 47), 1 (n = 46), and both (n = 18) risk factors were 17%, 48%, and 78%, respectively. Five-year disease-specific survival rates in patients with none, 1, and both preoperative risk factors were 95%, 69%, and 31%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 ≥83 U/mL and tumor size ≥2.2 cm were independent preoperative risk factors for poor outcomes in patients with resectable invasive intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma.

Evaluation of the Site and Frequency of Lymph Node Metastasis with Non-Functioning Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor

BACKGROUNDS

The optimal lymph node dissection range in patients with non-functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors is not yet clear. In this study, we investigated the site and frequency of lymph node metastasis and the significance of lymph node dissection in patients with non-functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed 74 patients who underwent a curative pancreatectomy for non-functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors between 2000 and 2016. The site and frequency of lymph node metastasis and clinicopathological factors were evaluated.

RESULTS

The rate of synchronous lymph node metastasis was 17.6%, with 11.1 and 29.4% for tumors with diameters of 10-19 mm and ≥20 mm, respectively. Lymph node metastasis was not observed for tumors with a diameter <10 mm. Lymph node metastasis was observed along the anterior (17a: 13.3%, 17b: 12.5%) and posterior (13a: 5.9%, 13b: 26.7%) surfaces of the pancreatic head and the superior mesenteric artery (14p: 12.5%, 14d: 7.7%) in patients with non-functioning pancreatic head neuroendocrine tumors, in the common hepatic (8a: 5.3%), splenic (10: 14.3%, 11p: 17.6%, 11d: 12.5%), and super mesenteric artery (14d: 14.3%) in patients with non-functioning pancreatic body neuroendocrine tumors, and only in the splenic artery (11p: 8.3%, 11d: 7.7%) in patients with non-functioning pancreatic tail neuroendocrine tumors. Grade 2 (HR = 6.21) and synchronous lymph node metastasis (HR = 10.4) were significant risk factors for disease-free survival. The 5-year disease-free survival was 95.7, 72.6, and 0% in patients with 0, 1, and 2 prognostic factors, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study clarified the site and frequency of lymph node metastasis and the optimal range of lymph node dissection in patients with non-functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.

Comparison of patients with invasive intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma and invasive ductal carcinoma of the pancreas: a pathological type- and stage-matched analysis

Objective: We compared the pathological features and stage-matched outcomes of patients with invasive intraductal papillary mucinous carcinoma (IPMC) and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) of the pancreas to identify the reasons for these diseases' differing prognoses.Methods: We analyzed 114 and 560 patients who underwent curative pancreatectomy for invasive IPMC and IDC, respectively, and analyzed their clinicopathological factors.Results: The disease-specific survival (DSS) of patients with invasive IPMC was significantly superior to that of patients with IDC exhibiting all pathological types at all stages. The DSS of patients with invasive IPMC exhibiting tubular adenocarcinoma was significantly superior to that of their counterparts with IDC only among those with stage IIB (p = .045). When comparing patients with stage IIB tubular adenocarcinoma-type invasive IPMC to their counterparts with IDC, the tumor size (2.6 cm vs. 3.3 cm, p = .010), serum level of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (253 vs. 474 U/mL, p = .035), number of metastatic lymph nodes (3.1 vs. 4.5, p = .033), vascular invasion rate (14% vs. 41%, p = .0019) and local invasion rate (79% vs. 95%, p = .0045) were lower in the former group. Moreover, the frequency of pathological tubular adenocarcinoma grade 1 was higher in patients with invasive IPMC than in those with IDC (38% vs. 12%, p = .0004) as was the R0 resection rate (90% vs. 65%, p = .0027).Conclusions: In pathological type- and stage-matched analyses, invasive IPMC was associated with a better prognosis than IDC only in patients with stage IIB, as factors governing tumor aggressiveness were milder in the former group than in the latter.

Surgical Outcomes for Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma with Vascular Invasion

PURPOSE

To investigate short- and long-term surgical outcomes for patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma and vascular invasion.

METHODS

Data from 249 patients who underwent perihilar cholangiocarcinoma surgery between 2000 and 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Patient evaluations included short-term surgical outcomes following vascular resection and long-term outcomes in cases with histopathological vascular invasion.

RESULTS

Mortality was 3.6% overall; 16% for hepatic artery resections, 5.4% for portal vein resections, and 1.7% in the absence of vascular resection (p = 0.029). No between-group differences were observed in the incidence of Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 3 complications. The factors related to perioperative mortality were hepatic artery resection (odds ratio [OR] = 25.5), right trisectionectomy (OR = 13.0), and central bisectionectomy (OR = 13.8). Multivariate analysis for overall survival identified several prognostic factors: carcinoembryonic antigen level ≥ 5 ng/mL (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.68), poor differentiation (HR = 2.39), distant metastasis (HR = 1.97), and R1 invasive resection (HR = 2.13). Five-year overall survival for patients with portal vein invasion and M0R0/1cis was 35.6%, significantly worse than the 53.4% for patients with no portal vein invasion and M0R/1cis but better than the 0% for patients with portal vein invasion and M1 or R1. Those with hepatic arterial invasion and M0R0/1cis were 24.7%, significantly worse than the 53.4% for patients with no hepatic arterial invasion and M0R0/1cis but significantly better than the 0% for patients with hepatic arterial invasion and M1 or R1.

CONCLUSION

Short-term outcomes for patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma and undergoing vascular resection were poor compared to those without vascular resection. Long-term survival in R0M0 disease was more favorable; aggressive surgery is recommended.

Evaluation of preoperative prognostic factors in patients with resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Objective: Upfront surgery is the standard treatment for resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (R-PDACs); however, these tumors often recur. We investigated the factors governing recurrence and prognosis in patients with R-PDAC. Methods: We analyzed 359 patients who underwent upfront surgery for R-PDAC between 2000 and 2016, and evaluated the relationship between clinicopathological factors and recurrence/outcomes. Results: The rate of recurrence was 74% while the median time to recurrence was 1.2 years. On multivariate analysis, carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) >37 U/mL (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.02), tumor size >2.6 cm (HR: 1.50), pathological grade 3 (HR: 2.58), lymph node metastasis (LNM; HR: 1.65), residual tumor (HR: 1.47) and forgoing adjuvant chemotherapy (HR: 1.31) were risk factors for a shorter recurrence-free survival; the median survival time (MST) was 2.8 years. On multivariate analysis, CA19-9 > 37 U/mL (HR: 1.99), tumor size >2.6 cm (HR: 1.43), pathological grade 3 (HR: 2.93), pathological portal vein invasion (HR: 1.48), LNM (HR: 1.79) and forgoing adjuvant chemotherapy (HR: 1.39) were risk factors for shorter disease-specific survival intervals. When examining outcomes according to preoperatively measurable factors (CA19-9 > 37 U/mL and tumor size >2.6 cm), the median time to recurrence and MSTs of patients with none (n = 83), one (n = 112) and both (n = 164) risk factors were 3.2, 1.8 and 0.8 years; and 7.2, 4.0 and 1.7 years, respectively. Conclusions: CA19-9 > 37 U/mL and tumor size >2.6 cm were preoperative independent risk factors for early recurrence and poor outcomes in patients with R-PDAC. Therefore, preoperative treatment should be considered for such patients.

Diagnosis by 64-Row Multidetector Computed Tomography for Longitudinal Superficial Extension of Distal Cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to demonstrate the diagnostic ability of 64-row multidetector computed tomography (64-row MDCT) for longitudinal superficial extension of distal cholangiocarcinoma (LSEDC).

METHODS

Twenty-seven patients with distal cholangiocarcinoma (DC) underwent preoperative 64-row MDCT without drainage tubes. LSEDC was diagnosed using curved planar reconstruction images reconstructed from 64-row MDCT, which were compared with pathologic findings.

RESULTS

LSEDC was observed in 13 patients (48%). Ten patients (37%) had enhancing nonthickened bile ducts extending continuously from the main tumor (type 1). These coincided with pathologic findings of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) in 90.0% of cases; that is, a positive predictive value (9/10). Fourteen patients (52%) had only wall thickening of the main tumor with or without enhancement (type 2). Four patients with HGD in this group were difficult to diagnose. Three patients (11%) had enhancing nonthickened bile ducts not in continuity with the main tumor (type 3). This finding revealed an inflammatory change instead of a carcinoma in the pathologic findings. The sensitivity and specificity of detecting HGD were 75% and 93% on the liver side, 33% and 100% on the duodenal side, respectively. Four patients (67%) with HGD on the liver side were overdiagnosed, and one patient (17%) was underdiagnosed. Most of the patients overdiagnosed on the liver side (3/4 or 75%) had drainage tubes inserted before the MDCT.

CONCLUSIONS

For DC patients without drainage tubes, the 64-row MDCT technique may be useful for diagnosing HGD depicted as LSEDC on the liver side but not as useful on the duodenal side.

Surgery in node-positive gallbladder cancer: The implication of an involved superior retro-pancreatic lymph node

BACKGROUND

The treatment approach to node-positive gallbladder cancer has unresolved issues with regard to the management of patients with a positive superior retro-pancreatic (level 13a) node, which is the highest level of spread. The American Joint Committee on Cancer remains unclear on the status of the 13a node.

METHODS

This retrospective study consisted of 165 patients with node-positive gallbladder cancer without distant metastasis. Patients were reclassified according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer eighth edition classification. The survival of patients with positive level 13a node was compared with that of patients with N1 disease (T stage-wise) and those with para-aortic nodal disease. A multivariate analysis was performed for factors affecting survival.

RESULTS

The 5-year survival of patients with positive level 13a with 1-3 nodes was similar to those with N1 disease (40.2% and 32.9%, respectively) and was better than those with more distant nodal spread (P < .05). In univariate and multivariate analyses, intraoperative blood loss (hazard ratio [HR] 1.58), R1 resection (HR 1.87), and T4 disease (versus T2, HR 3.44) were poor prognosticators. Pancreaticoduodenectomy may be beneficial in T2 patients.

CONCLUSION

A positive superior retro-pancreatic node does not worsen the prognosis in an otherwise N1 disease in T1/T2 gallbladder cancer. It behaves like a regional lymph node and should be treated as such.

A case of long-survival insulinoma with multiple neuroendocline tumour type 1 controlled by multimodal therapy

Insulinomas with multiple neuroendocrine tumour type 1 (MEN1) sometimes have metachronous or recurrent tumours. However, the treatment for these tumours is controversial, and published reports regarding multimodal therapy for insulinomas are limited. We report a 73-year-old woman with recurrent insulinoma with MEN1 successfully controlled by multimodal therapy. She had several complications, and poor performance status. Her hypoglycaemia did not improve after 6-month octreotide LAR; as such, she underwent enucleation of the pancreatic tumour. Within 7 years after the first operation, she underwent four succeeding surgeries for recurrent tumours. Her medications during follow-up were octreotide-LAR and Everolimus. Insulinoma can be managed through various treatment options. Medical treatment includes octreotide-LAR and Everolimus, while surgical approach includes enucleation and pancreaticoduodenectomy. Some tumours, particularly those that are MEN1, can recur repeatedly. Thus, several treatments are needed to control them. We highlight the importance of multimodal therapy, including repeated surgery, for the control of the disease.

ENBD is Associated with Decreased Tumor Dissemination Compared to PTBD in Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Little is known regarding the risk of tumor dissemination when percutaneous biliary drainage is used before surgical resection of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC). We aimed to compare the incidence of tumor dissemination after preoperative endoscopic nasobiliary drainage (ENBD) with that after percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) for PHC.

METHODS

Data from 208 consecutive patients who underwent PHC resection between 2000 and 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. The influence of drainage type on incidence of tumor dissemination was examined. Seventy-six patients underwent ENBD (37%), 87 underwent PTBD (42%), and 45 underwent surgery without preoperative biliary drainage (WD, 22%).

RESULTS

The respective 2- and 5-year estimated cumulative incidences of tumor dissemination in the ENBD group (11.8/14.6%) were lower than in the PTBD group (28.8/35.9%, p = 0.003) and equivalent to that in the WD group (11.2/15.9%, p = NS). PTBD (hazard ratio [HR] vs. ENBD, 2.80) was an independent risk factor for postoperative tumor dissemination in the multivariate analysis. The 2- and 5-year disease-specific survival rates were higher in the ENBD group (67.6/47.3%) than in the PTBD group (56.6/27.8%, p = 0.032) and equivalent to that in the WD group (64.9/53.8%, p = NS). However, drainage type was not an independent risk factor in multivariate analysis of disease-specific survival.

CONCLUSION

For patients with PHC, the associated risk of postoperative tumor dissemination in the ENBD group was lower than in the PTBD group and equivalent to that in the WD group. Thus, ENBD is the ideal procedure for preoperative biliary drainage.

A long-term recurrence-free survival of a patient with the mixed adeno-neuroendocrine bile duct carcinoma: A case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Neuroendocrine tumors arising primarily in the bile duct are rare. And among these tumors, mixed adeno-neuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC) is quite uncommon. We report a patient with MANEC who achieved long-term recurrence-free survival. And our case report includes analysis previous case reports.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 66-year-old man underwent investigation for persistent anorexia and fatigue. Laboratory tests showed that the values of hepatobiliary enzymes were increased. On CT, a 10mm×8mm hypervascular tumor was observed in the distal bile duct and the proximal bile duct was markedly dilated. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) also showed a stenosis with a long diameter of 10mm. Examination of a biopsy specimen obtained from the narrow site of the bile duct at the time of ERC revealed tubular adenocarcinoma. Therefore, pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed under a preoperative diagnosis of distal bile duct carcinoma. Postoperative pathologic examination revealed alveolar structures and a mixture of moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma with synaptophysin-positive and chromogranin-A-positive neuroendocrine carcinoma. Therefore, the final diagnosis was MANEC, pT3, pN1, M0, pStage II B (TNM classification of the UICC). Curative resection was achieved and there has been no recurrence after 30 months.

DISCUSSION

In the previous reports, only five patients (14.7%) survived for 24 months or longer. Median survival was longer (14 months) in the curative resection group and shorter (6 months) in the non-curative resection group.

CONCLUSION

Curative resection is essential to achieve long-term survival in patients with bile duct MANEC, even if these patients have lymph node metastasis.

Original Scientific Reports: Clinicopathological Findings of Remnant Pancreatic Cancers in Survivors Following Curative Resections of Pancreatic Cancers

Background

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate clinicopathological findings of remnant pancreatic cancers in survivors of invasive ductal adenocarcinomas of the pancreas (PDAC).

Methods

A group of 23 patients out of 826 who had curative resections for PDAC between 1980 and 2011 was identified and treated for metachronous pancreatic cancer.

Results

The following tubular adenocarcinomas were found at the first surgery: 3 well differentiated, 17 moderately differentiated, 1 papillary, and 1 poorly differentiated. Treatments for the remnant pancreas consisted of remnant pancreatectomy in 12 patients, chemotherapy in 6, and the best supportive care in 5. The mean time to treatment was 74.2 months. The 12 patients who received remnant resections had 10 PDACs and 2 intraductal papillary mucinous carcinomas. The median survival time was 31.6 months, and 8 patients are still alive.

Conclusions

Long-term survivors after curative resection for pancreatic cancer should receive follow-up for remnant pancreatic cancer, and aggressive resection should be considered for more favorable prognosis of PDAC.

Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor-producing gallbladder carcinoma-include analysis all case reports: A case report

INTRODUCTION

It is extremely rare for gallbladder carcinoma to produce granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and such tumors have a poor prognosis.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 67-year-old man was admitted with continuous fever. Laboratory tests showed a leukocyte count of 27,980/μL, serum C-reactive protein (CRP) of 9.2mg/dL and serum G-CSF of 225pg/mL. Imaging revealed an irregular gallbladder mass about 90mm in diameter with peripheral enhancement that also involved the liver and transverse colon. G-CSF producing gallbladder carcinoma was diagnosed. We performed cholecystectomy, partial resection of segments 4 and 5 of the liver, partial resection of the transverse colon, and gastrostomy. Histopathological examination showed gallbladder carcinoma (pT3, pN0, M0, G2, and pStage IIIA by the UICC classification, version 7). On immunohistochemical staining, tumor cells were positive for G-CSF. The leukocyte count was normalized postoperatively and fever subsided immediately after surgery. Two months later, the leukocyte count rose to 56,820/μL and metastases to the liver and lymph nodes were detected by CT. Chemotherapy (gemcitabine plus cisplatin) was started and the leukocyte count was normalized after the first course. The patient has continued chemotherapy and has survived for 16 months postoperatively.

DISCUSSION

G-CSF producing gallbladder carcinoma has a poor prognosis and most patients die within 12 months of starting therapy. It is rare for patients with recurrence to survive for 16 months after surgery, as in the present case.

CONCLUSION

Multidisciplinary therapy (surgery and chemotherapy) may prolong the survival of patients with G-CSF producing gallbladder carcinoma, especially those with recurrence.

[A case of advanced gastric cancer with tumor embolus in the portal vein and liver metastasis responding to S-1 plus cisplatin chemotherapy]

A 67-year-old woman presented with anemia. Computed tomography and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a primary gastric cancer with tumor embolus in the portal vein, liver metastasis, lymph node metastasis, and pancreatic involvement. Because curative surgery was deemed impossible, we started chemotherapy using S-1 (120 mg/m(2)/day for 3 weeks, followed by discontinuation for 2 weeks) plus cisplatin (80 mg/m(2)/day on days 1 and 8). After 4 courses of chemotherapy, the tumor embolus in the portal vein, liver metastasis, lymph node metastasis, and pancreatic involvement had resolved. Therefore, we performed distal gastrectomy. Histological examination revealed ypT1a, ly0, v0, ypN0 (0/49), ypCY0, ypStage IA, with a two-grade histological change in the main tumor after chemotherapy. Postoperatively, she underwent adjuvant chemotherapy with S-1 for 1 year (120 mg/m(2)/day for 4 weeks, followed by discontinuation for 2 weeks). At the 30-month follow-up after the adjuvant chemotherapy, she had no recurrence.

[A case of esophageal hiatus hernia with change of upside down stomach over time]

An 81-year-old woman presented with left hypochondrial pain and vomiting. CT showed incarceration of the entire stomach in the left pleural cavity with esophageal hiatus hernia with mesenteroaxial gastric volvulus. We diagnosed upside down stomach. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showed no impairment of blood supply to the gastric mucosa and she had cardiac complications, so nasogastric tube insertion and conservative management were performed. Two weeks later, her upside down stomach had resolved and only hiatus hernia was seen. We then performed a Nissen operation.

[Ileocecal resection for idiopathic intussusception in an adult]

A 60-year-old woman presented with abdominal pain and bloody stools. On examination, there was muscular guarding and rebound tenderness in the right abdomen. Abdominal ultrasonography and CT showed a concentric structure in the ascending colon and ascites. Emergency surgery was performed with a preoperative diagnosis of idiopathic intussusception. At operation, an intussusception was not seen, but ileocecal resection was performed to remove a possible tumor. No lesion that could have caused intussusception was identified in the resected bowel segment, so the condition was idiopathic.