Early Endoscopic Interventions for Pancreatic Necrosis: Indications, Technique, and Outcomes

Endoscopic transmural drainage is usually performed for symptomatic well-encapsulated walled-off necrosis (WON) that usually develops in the delayed phase (> 4 weeks after disease onset) of acute necrotising pancreatitis (ANP). Endoscopic drainage is usually not advocated in the early (< 4 weeks after disease onset) stage of illness because of the risk of complications due to an incompletely formed encapsulating wall and poor demarcation of viable from necrotic tissue. However, emerging data from expert tertiary care centres over the last few years shows that the early endoscopic transluminal drainage approach is effective and safe. The development of lumen-apposing metal stents and better accessories for endoscopic necrosectomy has fuelled the expansion of indications of endoscopic drainage of pancreatic necrosis. However, early endoscopic drainage is associated with higher rates of adverse events; therefore, careful patient selection is paramount. This article will review the current indications, techniques and outcomes of early endoscopic transluminal drainage in pancreatic necrotic collections.

Modified trichrome stain for faster and improved detection of intestinal protozoan parasites

Permanent stains such as trichrome have better sensitivity but are time-consuming and the fixative includes toxic mercuric chloride. Thus, a newer modification was tested and found to be a superior, faster and safer staining technique for intestinal parasitic detection. Our study lasted 9 months and a single stool sample was collected from each enrolled patient. We evaluated classical trichrome (T1 - using Schaudinn fixative) with newer modifications, which involved different fixatives with mordant combinations (T2 - acetic acid + hydrated aluminium sulphate, T3 - citric acid + copper sulphate hydrate). Conventional PCR targeting Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium spp. was taken as the reference. Out of 175 stool samples, 25.1% protozoa were identified by wet mount, 24% by each T1 and T2, 25.7% by T3. Statistically, T3 and T2 had higher sensitivity as compared to T1 and wet mount when PCR was used as reference.

The WHO system versus the Papanicolaou society of cytopathology system for reporting pancreaticobiliary cytology for risk stratification-which is better?

BACKGROUND

Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has proposed a reporting system for pancreaticobiliary cytopathology. We applied this classification for pancreatic lesion samples by fine needle aspiration (FNA) and compared the results to the previous classification of the Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology (PSC) system for risk stratification.

METHODS

The computerized database was searched for all pancreatic endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) and transabdominal ultrasound-guided FNA (TUS-FNA) samples from 2016 to 2020 and cases were reassigned as per the PSC and the WHO diagnostic categories. Cases with follow-up, clinicoradiological, and/or histopathology were included in the study. The risk of malignancy (ROM) was calculated across all diagnostic categories based on clinical data, imaging data, and histopathology wherever available.

RESULTS

There were a total of 625 pancreatic FNA. In 230 cases, follow-up information was available which included 116 EUS and 114 TUS-FNA samples. The ROM for PSC categories I-VI was 40%, 19.7%, 28.6%, 57.1%, 94.7%, and 97.9% and for the WHO categories (I-VII), it was 60%, 21.3%, and 35.7%, not representative, not applicable, 94.7% and 94.9%. The overall sensitivity and specificity of PSC was 68.2% and 96.2% when categories V and VI were taken as positive and 78.9% and 93.3% for WHO when categories VI and VII were taken as positive.

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreatic FNA samples reported as per the WHO system showed better sensitivity as compared to the PSC system resulting in better risk stratification and consequently better patient management. The overall high specificity and moderate sensitivity reaffirm the utility of FNA in pancreatic lesions.

Simultaneous Integrated Boost (SIB) Versus Sequential Boost in Anal Cancer Patients: A Single-Center Experience

PURPOSE

Concurrent chemoradiation is the standard of care for the treatment of anal cancer. Radiation can be delivered by sequential or simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) approach. The present study was conducted to compare the treatment outcomes and toxicity profile of patients with anal cancer treated with sequential boost and SIB approach.

METHODS

A single-institution retrospective analysis of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal treated between 2019 and 2022 with radical chemoradiation was performed. The sequential boost schedule consisted of 45 Gy in 25 fractions (1.8 Gy daily) to the gross tumor, nodes, and elective nodal volume, followed by a 9 Gy in five fractions boost to the gross disease. Patients receiving SIB were treated as per RTOG 0529 protocol. In both the groups, patients were treated with volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). The two groups were compared in terms of overall survival (OS), colostomy-free survival (CFS), relapse-free survival (RFS), and acute toxicity profile. p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The patient and disease characteristics in both treatment arms were comparable. The only difference was a significantly longer overall treatment time of ≥ 50 days in the sequential arm (77.8% vs 43.8%, p = 0.04). The median follow-up was 18 months. The 2-year CFS was 80% in sequential vs 87.5% at 2 years for the SIB arm, 2-year OS 83.3% vs 58.6%, and 2-year RFS was 38.9% vs 41.7%, respectively. A total of 14 (77.8%) in sequential and 8 (50%) in the SIB arm had disease relapse. On univariate analysis, the involved pelvic lymph node significantly affected OS (HR 10.45, p = 0.03) while inguinal lymph node involvement adversely affected RFS (HR 6.16, p = 0.02). The most common acute toxicity was radiation-induced dermatitis, 15 (83.4%; 5 grade II, 10 grade III) in sequential vs 7 (43.8%; 3 each grade II and III) in the SIB group followed by hematological (61.1% vs 68.75%). However, the incidence of overall acute toxicities was significantly less in the SIB arm (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that concurrent chemoradiation with the SIB-VMAT approach is well tolerated in patients of anal carcinoma and resulted in lesser treatment interruptions and comparable outcomes as compared to the sequential approach. Our results warrant further evaluation in a prospective study.

Current paradigm of endoscopic ultrasound in biliary and pancreatic duct drainage: an update

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the workhorse for biliary and pancreatic ductal interventions. Despite advances in both endoscopes and accessories for ERCP, it still has limitations in the presence of altered anatomy, luminal obstruction hindering access to the papilla, and proximal duct obstructions by tight stricture, calculi or intraductal growth. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) and EUS-guided pancreatic duct drainage (EUS-PDD) have expanded the rescue procedures after failed ERCP. This review discusses the techniques and results of various EUS-BD procedures, as well as EUS-PDD.

Discharge protocol in acute pancreatitis: an international survey and cohort analysis

There are several overlapping clinical practice guidelines in acute pancreatitis (AP), however, none of them contains suggestions on patient discharge. The Hungarian Pancreatic Study Group (HPSG) has recently developed a laboratory data and symptom-based discharge protocol which needs to be validated. (1) A survey was conducted involving all members of the International Association of Pancreatology (IAP) to understand the characteristics of international discharge protocols. (2) We investigated the safety and effectiveness of the HPSG-discharge protocol. According to our international survey, 87.5% (49/56) of the centres had no discharge protocol. Patients discharged based on protocols have a significantly shorter median length of hospitalization (LOH) (7 (5;10) days vs. 8 (5;12) days) p < 0.001), and a lower rate of readmission due to recurrent AP episodes (p = 0.005). There was no difference in median discharge CRP level among the international cohorts (p = 0.586). HPSG-protocol resulted in the shortest LOH (6 (5;9) days) and highest median CRP (35.40 (13.78; 68.40) mg/l). Safety was confirmed by the low rate of readmittance (n = 35; 5%). Discharge protocol is necessary in AP. The discharge protocol used in this study is the first clinically proven protocol. Developing and testifying further protocols are needed to better standardize patients' care.

Endoscopic Ultrasound in Pancreatic Duct Anomalies

Embryological development of the pancreas is a complex phenomenon and, therefore, it can have multiple developmental aberrations. Fortunately, the majority of these pancreatic ductal anomalies are asymptomatic with no clinical relevance and are incidentally detected during diagnostic cross-sectional imaging or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or autopsy. Occasionally, pancreatic duct anomalies can result in symptoms like abdominal pain or recurrent pancreatitis. Also, an accurate pre-operative diagnosis of ductal anomalies can prevent inadvertent duct injury during surgery. Conventionally, ERCP had been used for an accurate diagnosis of pancreatic duct anomalies. However, because it is invasive and associated with a risk of pancreatitis, it has been replaced with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). MRCP has demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of ductal anomalies, which can be further improved with the use of secretin-enhanced MRCP. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a new diagnostic and interventional tool in the armamentarium of endoscopists and has demonstrated promising results in the detection of pancreatic duct variations and anomalies. Along with the visualization of the course and configuration of the pancreatic duct, EUS can also visualize changes in the pancreatic parenchyma, thereby helping with an early diagnosis of any co-existent pancreatic disease. Absence of the stack sign and crossed duct sign are important EUS features to diagnose pancreas divisum. EUS can also help with the diagnosis of other congenital ductal anomalies like annular pancreas, ansa pancreatica, and anomalous pancreaticobiliary union, although the published experience is limited.

Evaluating the role of the Minimal Incision Retroperitoneal Necrosectomy (MIRN) in the management of infected pancreatic necrosis: Experience from a tertiary care center

Background

The conventional open necrosectomy was associated with high mortality and morbidities like secondary organ failure, incisional hernia, enterocutaneous fistula, and external pancreatic fistula. In acute pancreatitis, collections are primarily confined to the retroperitoneal space. Hence, the retroperitoneal approach can be used to drain the collection and necrotic material. It benefits smaller incisions and better outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality than the conventional open necrosectomy. This study primarily aims to describe the effects of minimal incision retroperitoneal necrosectomy versus conventional open necrosectomy for treating INP. Moreover, it provides evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of this method.

Methods

A single-center retrospective study of the prospectively maintained database from April 2008 to December 2021.

Results

A total of 122 patients were included in the study. Seventy-eight patients had an open necrosectomy, 30 had a MIRN, and 14 had a VARD procedure. These three groups were comparable in demographic variables. Preoperative variables like APACHE II at presentation, Modified CTSI, percentage of necrosis, multi-organ failure, time to surgery, and need for preoperative ICU stay were comparable among the three groups. Postoperative mortality was low in the MIRN group{open 35.8 % vs. MIRN 20.5 % vs. VARD 35.7 %, p = 0.066}. The postoperative stay was also significantly low in the MIRN and VARD group {open 23.62 ± 16.61 vs. MIRN 11.77 ± 7.73, VARD 8.86 ± 2.98, p = 0.00}. No significant difference in re-intervention rate, postoperative bleeding, and enterocutaneous fistula.

Conclusion

MIRN is a simple and easy-to-adapt procedure for infected pancreatic necrosis in the appropriately selected patient group.

Endoscopic treatment of pancreatic necrosis: Still searching for perfection!

Over last few years, there has been a paradigm shift in the management of infected pancreatic necrosis with endoscopic and minimally invasive "step-up" management approach replacing open surgical necrosectomy. Because of being associated with reduced occurrence of new onset multi-organ failure, external pancreatic fistulae, shorter hospital stay, lower costs, and better quality of life compared with minimally invasive surgical approach, endoscopic "step-up" management approach is the preferred intervention for endoscopically accessible pancreatic necrotic collections at expert centers with endoscopic expertise. Development of lumen apposing metal stents and improvised accessories for interventional endoscopic ultrasound has revolutionized the endoscopic management of pancreatic necrosis making it more effective and safer. Despite these promising developments, endoscopic transluminal necrosectomy (ETN) remains the Achilles heel. Lack of dedicated endoscopic accessories, poor endoscopic visualization within the necrotic cavity, limited diameter of the instrument channel of the endoscope that is a significant impediment to remove large amount of necrotic material, and uncertain ability to avoid vessels and vital structures in the necrotic cavity are important limitations during endoscopic necrosectomy. Recent devices and solutions including use of cap assisted necrosectomy, over the scope grasper and powered endoscopic debridement device are welcome steps in our pursuit for an ideal, safer, and efficacious ETN device. This review will discuss recent advances as well as challenges in the endoscopic management of pancreatic necrosis.

EUS-guided FNAC in intra-abdominal lesions: Technique of tissue acquisition, ancillary testing, pearls and perils, and prospects

Endoscopic ultrasound enables visualization of lesions within and in the vicinity of the gastrointestinal tract. Endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration cytology (EUS-FNAC) helps in targeting various luminal and extraluminal lesions both diagnostically and therapeutically. Various intra-abdominal organs amenable to EUS-FNA include the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), pancreas, kidney, adrenal gland, liver, bile duct, gallbladder, spleen, and lymph nodes. EUS-FNAC is mostly done for pancreatic and intra-abdominal lymph nodal lesions. In the present review, we have discussed various aspects of EUS-FNAC.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Trans-esophageal Transmural Drainage of Mediastinal Pseudocysts: A Case Series

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Mediastinal pseudocysts (MP) are rare, and surgery is the conventional treatment modality. However, in the last decade, excellent outcomes have been reported with endoscopic transpapillary drainage. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided trans-esophageal transmural drainage of MP is a minimally invasive and effective non-surgical treatment modality, but the experience is limited. We aimed to report our experience of EUS-guided transmural drainage in 10 patients with MP's.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients with pancreatic fluid collections treated with EUS-guided transmural drainage over the last ten years was completed to to identify patients with MP's.

RESULTS

Ten patients (8 males, with a mean age of 34.9±9.17 years) with MP treated with EUS-guided transesophageal transmural drainage were identified. Nine patients with MP had concurrent chronic pancreatitis, and only one had MP following acute necrotizing pancreatitis. The mean size of MP was 5.70±1.64 cm, and nine patients (90%) had concurrent abdominal pseudocyst. EUS-guided transesophageal transmural drainage was technically successful in all ten patients. Transmural plastic stents were placed in 9 patients, whereas one patient underwent single-time complete aspiration of the MP. There were no immediate or delayed procedure-related complications. All ten patients had a successful outcome, with the mean resolution time being 2.80±0.79 weeks. There has been no recurrence of PFC or symptoms in nine (90%) successfully treated patients over a mean follow-up period of 43.3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-guided trans-esophageal drainage of MP is safe with a high technical and clinical success rate.

Clinical spectrum & changing presentation of celiac disease in Indian children

Background & objectives

Celiac disease (CD) is a genetic immune mediated disorder characterised by gluten intolerance. This single centre study, from north India was aimed to assess the clinical, serological and histological profile of CD in a large cohort of children and the changing trends in its presentation.

Methods

A review of clinical details of CD children diagnosed between 2000 and 2019 and currently on follow up was performed. Information on demography, symptoms, associated conditions, serology, biopsy findings and gluten-free diet were analyzed.

Results

The mean age (±standard deviation) of 891 children included in the study, at onset and at diagnosis was 4.0±2.7 and 6.2±3.1 yr, respectively. Growth faltering, abdominal pain, abdominal distension and diarrhoea were presenting symptoms in 70, 64.2, 61.2 and 58.2 per cent, respectively. A positive family history of CD was present in 14 per cent and autoimmune conditions in 12.3 per cent of children. Thyroid disorders were seen in 8.5 per cent of children and Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in 5.7 per cent. The duration of breastfeeding had a weak positive correlation with age at onset and diagnosis of CD (P<0.001). Non-classical CD was significantly more common in children aged >10 yr and in those presenting after 2010 (P<0.01). T1DM and hypothyroidism occurred more frequently in non-compliant children.

Interpretation & conclusions

This was the largest single centre study, pertaining to the presentation and follow up of CD in children. Infants and young children were more likely to present with classical symptoms of diarrhoea, abdominal distension and growth failure while older children presented with non-classical CD. There was a trend towards non-classical forms of CD in recent years.

Nomenclature of Pancreatic Fluid Collections following Acute Pancreatitis: Need to Further Revise the Atlanta Classification System!

A better understanding of the disease pathophysiology, improved imaging modalities, and the development of minimally invasive interventions led to the revision of the Atlanta classification and new terminologies for the pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) occurring in acute pancreatitis. Peripancreatic necrosis (PPN) or extra-pancreatic necrosis (EPN) has been reported as a distinct morphological entity with a better outcome than combined pancreatic and peripancreatic necrosis as well as pancreatic parenchymal necrosis alone and slightly worse than acute interstitial pancreatitis. In this news and views, we discuss a study that compared the morphological features and outcomes of endoscopic drainage of walled off necrotic collections developing after EPN alone with those developing after PN with or without EPN.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology in diagnosing intra-abdominal lesions

Objectives:

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (EUS-FNAC) is an effective method to acquire tissue from the mucosal, submucosal, and peri-intestinal structure with the pancreas being the most common organ to be targeted. This study is aimed to evaluate the role of EUS-FNAC in pancreatic lesions as well as other gastrointestinal (GI) structures including lymph nodes, upper GI tract, liver, and spleen.

Material and Methods:

A total of 71 cases were taken in which EUS FNAC was performed over 19 months (2018–July 2019). The details analysis of the cytological features was performed in all these cases along with the clinical outcome. The diagnostic efficacy of the EUS-FNAC was evaluated in these cases.

Results:

Out of 71 cases, 36 (50.7%) were male. The most common site being the pancreas 45 (60%) followed by intra-abdominal lymph nodes in 13(17.3%) cases and stomach 7 (9.3%). The neoplastic aspirate was noted in 38 (50.7%) cases. Among malignant lesion, adenocarcinoma was the most common; however, uncommon malignancies such as metastatic malignant melanoma and acinar cell carcinoma were also noted. Malignant lesion in pancreas includes adenocarcinoma (n = 11, 24.4%) followed by neuroendocrine tumor (n = 7, 15.6%). Tuberculosis was one of the common benign lesions to be reported.

Conclusion:

EUS-FNAC is an effective tool in the diagnosis of GI lesion particularly in the pancreas where it can avoid unnecessary surgical intervention in advanced malignancies. It can effectively obtain samples for molecular markers for pancreatic cancers. Nonetheless, diagnosing tuberculosis in inaccessible lymph nodes with its help is a lifesaving approach especially in developing countries.

Diagnostic and interventional EUS in hepatology: An updated review

EUS has become an increasingly used diagnostic and therapeutic modality in the armamentarium of endoscopists. With ever-expanding indications, EUS is being used in patients with liver disease, for both diagnosis and therapy. EUS is playing an important role in providing additional important information to that provided by cross-sectional imaging modalities such as computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Domains of therapy that were largely restricted to interventional radiologists have become accessible to endosonologists. From liver biopsy and sampling of liver lesions to ablative therapy for liver lesions and vascular interventions for varices, there is increased use of EUS in patients with liver disease. In this review, we discuss the various diagnostic and therapeutic applications of EUS in patients with various liver diseases.

Evaluating the role of endoscopic ultrasound in pancreatitis

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) provides high-resolution images of both pancreatic parenchyma and duct and therefore is an integral component of evaluating and treating patients with pancreatitis and its complications. The development of enhanced EUS imaging techniques and newer EUS-specific accessories has expanded the diagnostic and therapeutic role of EUS in patients with acute and chronic pancreatitis (CP).

AREAS COVERED

This review discusses the current diagnostic and therapeutic role of EUS in acute pancreatitis (AP), CP, and autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP).

EXPERT OPINION

EUS plays a vital role in patients with AP by confirming the presence of common bile duct (CBD) stones in patients with acute biliary pancreatitis and intermediate probability of CBD stones. It plays an important role in the etiological evaluation of patients with idiopathic acute and recurrent pancreatitis. EUS is also an essential modality for diagnosing and managing pancreatico-biliary as well as gastroduodenal complications associated with CP. EUS-guided FNB using newer generation core biopsy needles has made possible accurate diagnosis of AIP by providing tissue samples with preserved architecture.

Misdiagnosis of carcinoma gall bladder in endemic regions

Background

Incidental carcinoma gall bladder and benign disease in radical cholecystectomy specimen is the cause of concern. We attempted to find out the incidence and reasons thereof in the present study.

Methods

Present study is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database between July 2002 and July 2019. All patients with a diagnosis of carcinoma gall bladder admitted for surgery were included.

Results

Out of 148 patients, 110 patients had carcinoma gall bladder (CAGB), while 38 patients (25.7%) had incidental carcinoma (under-diagnosis). Radical resection was done in 61/110 (55.4%) patients with clinical CAGB, where 15 (24.6%) patients had benign pathology (“over-diagnosis”). Overdiagnosis was due to xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (n = 9), chronic cholecystitis (n = 2), tuberculosis (n = 2) and IgG4 related cholecystitis (n = 2). Among 61 patients, a history of weight loss and anorexia were significantly associated with malignancy. Asymmetrical wall thickness was significantly more common in benign mimickers.

Among patients with incidental carcinoma, preoperative ultrasonography reported normal wall thickness of gall bladder in 28 (73.7%), thickened gall bladder wall in 6, and polyp in 3 patients. The resectability rate among incidental carcinoma was 27/38 (71.05%).

Conclusion

Over-diagnosis of the carcinoma gall bladder was present in 24.6%. On the other hand, incidental carcinoma comprised 25.7% of all admissions for carcinoma gall bladder with resectability of 71%.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Biopsy for Pancreatic Lesions is the Way Forward: Here is the Evidence!

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition (EUS TA) has increasingly become imperative for pancreatic pathology in arriving at the correct diagnosis because of its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and availability at high-volume centers. The advent of EUS fine-needle biopsy (FNB) has revolutionized EUS TA by providing samples that are larger and more diagnostic compared with fine-needle aspiration (FNA). Rapid onsite evaluation (ROSE) has been conventionally used for improving the cytological yield as well as diagnostic accuracy of EUS FNA. The development of FNB has obviated the need for ROSE, and evidence from retrospective and comparative studies has suggested that FNB is as good as FNA with ROSE in terms of diagnostic accuracy and reduced costs. However, strong evidence in the form of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) was missing. In this news and views, we discuss a multicenter RCT that has compared the diagnostic accuracy of EUS FNB alone to EUS FNA with ROSE in patients with solid pancreatic lesions. This study has reemphasized that EUS FNB has a diagnostic accuracy comparable to EUS + ROSE at a comparable cost and requires fewer passes and has a shorter procedure time.

EUS-Guided Rendezvous and Tractogastrostomy: A Novel Technique for Disconnected Pancreatic Duct Syndrome with External Pancreatic Fistula

Background and Aims External pancreatic fistula occurring in the setting of disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome leads to significant morbidity, often requiring surgery. The aim of this study is to report a new technique of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided rendezvous and tractogastrostomy in patients with disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome and external pancreatic fistula.

Methods This study is retrospective analysis of the data of the patients with external pancreatic fistula who had undergone EUS-guided rendezvous and tractogastrostomy. Internalization of pancreatic secretions was performed by placing a stent between tract and the stomach. Technical success was defined as placement of stent between the tract and the stomach. Clinical success was defined as removal of external catheter and absence of peripancreatic fluid collection, ascites or external fistula at 3 months after the tractogastrostomy.

Results Four patients, all male, with median age of 33.5 years (range: 29–45), underwent EUS-guided tractogastrostomy. Technical and clinical success was 100%, without any procedure related complication. External catheter could be removed in all the patients. During the median follow-up of 10.5 months (range: 8–12), two patients had stent migration and peripancreatic fluid collection, which were managed by EUS-guided internal drainage.

Conclusions EUS-guided rendezvous and tractogastrostomy are a safe and effective technique for the treatment of external pancreatic fistula.

Role of inflammatory and nutritional markers in predicting complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality rates. Early recognition of patients likely to develop severe postoperative complications will allow the timely commencement of a tailored approach. This study aimed to predict postoperative complications using inflammatory and nutritional markers measured early in the postoperative period.

METHODS

Patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy between June 2019 and November 2020 were included in the study. Postoperative pancreatic fistula, delayed gastric emptying, and postoperative pancreatic hemorrhage were graded according to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula and the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery. We also documented other complications such as wound infection, intra-abdominal collection, and nonsurgical complications. Nutritional and inflammatory markers were analyzed on postoperative days 1 and 3. Patients were followed up for 30 days or until discharge, depending on which was longer.

RESULTS

Of the 58 enrolled patients, 51 were included in the study. The incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula was 51% (clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula 27.4%), delayed gastric emptying was 80.4% (clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying 43%), postoperative pancreatic hemorrhage was 3.9%, intra-abdominal collection was 23.5%, and wound infection was 29.4%. The median drain fluid interlukin-6 levels on postoperative day 1 and postoperative day 3 were significantly higher in patients developing clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula than in those who did not develop clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula on postoperative day 1 (211 [125, 425] fg/dL vs 99 [15, 170] fg/dL, [P = .045]) and on postoperative day 3 (110 [22, 28] fg/dL vs 10 [1.8, 45] fg/dL [P = .002]). Patients who tested negative for urine trypsinogen-2 on postoperative day 3 had a significantly lower probability of developing clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula than those who tested positive (1 vs 24 [P < .001]). A model comprising both drain fluid interlukin-6 and urine trypsinogen-2 on postoperative day 3 definitively ruled out the occurrence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula.

CONCLUSION

Drain fluid interlukin-6 and urine trypsinogen-2 on postoperative day 3 ruled out the occurrence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula.

Lower cyst fluid carcinoembryonic antigen cutoff is helpful in the differential diagnosis of mucinous versus non-mucinous pancreatic cysts

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are being diagnosed with increased frequency and have varying neoplastic potential. We conducted this multimodal, prospective study to evaluate  the role of tumor cytology and molecular markers to differentiate PCL subtypes.

METHODS

Consecutive undiagnosed patients with PCLs (n = 100, mean age: 50.37 years; 41% males) were prospectively studied. Cyst fluid carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), CA19.9, CA125, CA72.4, and vascular endothelial growth factor-alpha (VEGF-α) levels were measured by quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Mutational analysis of the KRAS gene (exon 2, Codon 12 and 13) and GNAS gene (Exon 8, Codon 201) were performed by Sanger's sequencing.

RESULTS

The mean cyst size was 4.32 ± 2.4 cm. Fluid cytology revealed definitive diagnosis in 21 (22.3%) patients. All malignant PCLs could be identified on cytology whereas 10/14 (71%) non-malignant mucinous PCLs could also be identified on cytology based on mucin staining. Among the tested tumor markers, cyst fluid CEA had the best diagnostic performance for differentiation between mucinous and non-mucinous PCLs (AUC 0.933 [95% CI 0.86-0.91]). At a cyst fluid CEA cutoff level of 45.0 ng/mL, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for differentiation between mucinous and non-mucinous cysts were 88.5%, 96.8%, 92.0%, and 95.3%, respectively (p &lt; 0.05). KRAS and GNAS mutation had no significant diagnostic benefit in comparison to fluid cytology and CEA levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Fluid CEA at a lower cutoff of 45 ng/mL is the most accurate marker to differentiate between mucinous and non-mucinous PCL. The KRAS and GNAS mutational analysis does not improve upon the diagnostic performance of fluid cytology and tumor markers.

Assessing the Efficacy and Outcomes Following Irrigation with Streptokinase Versus Hydrogen Peroxide in Necrotizing Pancreatitis: A Randomized Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD's) are prone to blockage because of necrosum. To improve the efficacy of PCD, necrolytic agents have been used. The present study compared the use of Streptokinase with H₂O₂ in saline irrigation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a single-center randomized pilot study (from July 2018 to Dec 2019). Patients with infected pancreatic necrosis not showing response to PCD and saline irrigation were included in the study. Patients received either Streptokinase (Streptokinase group 50,000 IU in 100 ml normal saline) or 3% H₂O₂ (3% H₂O₂ in 100 ml normal saline in 1:10 dilution). Primary endpoints were the need for surgery and mortality while secondary endpoints were hospital stay and complications attributable to necrolytic agents.

RESULTS

There were 30 patients in the study, 15 in each arm. Organ failure was seen in 23 (76.6%), single organ failure was present in 11 (47%), and multi-organ failure in 12 (53%). Bleeding complications (20% in H₂O₂ vs 6.6% in Streptokinase), need for surgery (73% in H₂O₂ vs 33.3% in Streptokinase) and mortality (60% in H₂O₂ vs 33% in Streptokinase) were higher in H₂O₂ group but the difference was not significant statistically. Post-irrigation hospital stay was lesser in the Streptokinase group compared to H₂O₂ group but the difference did not reach statistical significance (14.1 ± 7.7 vs 19.2 ± 11.7, p = 0.09) CONCLUSIONS: Streptokinase irrigation led to a trend for reduced need for necrosectomy and mortality. H₂O₂ group had more bleeding complications_. Post-irrigation hospital stay was lesser in Streptokinase group.

Preoperative Histological Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms: Is Through the Needle Forceps Sampling the Answer?

Accurate preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) is a challenge as image-guided cytology has a very low sensitivity for its diagnosis. The recent advances in endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) such as needle confocal laser endomicroscopy and through the needle biopsy forceps has led to better characterization and diagnosis of the PCL. In this news and views, we discuss a prospective study that has evaluated the efficacy and safety of EUS-guided throughtheneedle biopsy sampling (EUS-TTNB) for diagnosis of PCLs.

Prevention of Serious Complications during Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Biliary Drainage: A Case-Based Technical Review

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) has a potential risk of clinically significant adverse events including fatal complications. Learning from complications improves the results from interventional procedures especially the high-risk procedure like EUS-BD. The various complications that have been reported following EUS-BD include bile leak, bleeding, cholangitis, peritonitis, stent migration both internal and external as well as in the peritoneal cavity and fatal perforations. In this technical review, we discuss technical strategies to prevent serious adverse events during EUS-BD using a case based approach.

Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: A Harbinger of Infection in Peri/Pancreatic Necrotic Collections

OBJECTIVE

Infected pancreatic necrosis (IPN) is associated with poor outcomes. The present study looked at incidence of infection and predictors, if any, in these collections.

METHODS

This prospective observational study was done between July 2019 and October 2020. Symptomatic patients of acute necrotic collections and walled-off necrosis of pancreas requiring drainage were included. Necrotic fluid and blood were analyzed for growth of organisms.

RESULTS

Sixty-two patients were included. The mean age was 36.8 years (standard deviation, 11.5 years). Male-female ratio was 4:1. Alcohol was the most common etiology. Infection was noted in 44 of the 62 patients (70.9%) and bacteremia noted in 23 of the 62 patients (37%). Escherichia coli was the most common organism in necrotic collections and Staphylococcus was the most common organism isolated from blood culture. The patients with Modified Computed Tomography-Severity Index of 8 of higher ( P < 0.001) had significant association with IPN but not with bacteremia. However, splanchnic vein thrombosis ( P = 0.022) was significantly associated with development of IPN as well as bacteremia on both univariate and multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus were the most common organisms grown from necrotic collections and blood respectively. Presence of splanchnic vein thrombosis was a significant factor for development of IPN and bacteremia on univariate as well as multivariate analysis.

Novel Resection System for Direct Endoscopic Necrosectomy of Walled-Off Pancreas Necrosis: Have We Conquered the Final Frontier?

Surgical necrosectomy has been the traditional management for pancreatic necrosis and is done using blunt dissection. However, lack of dedicated endoscopic accessories has been a major limitation in direct endoscopic necrosectomy (DEN). Standard endoscopic accessories cannot effectively remove large necrotic material. Also, diameter of instrument channel of the endoscope limits the ability to use large-diameter graspers that can remove large chunks of necrotic material. In this news, we discuss a recent study that has evaluated a new powered endoscopic debridement system for DEN.

Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 4G/5G Promoter Polymorphism in Adults with Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: A Case-Control Study

The role of PAI-1 4G/5G polymorphism in venous thrombosis is unclear. PAI-1 4G/4G genotype is associated with elevated levels of PAI-1 resulting in a hypofibrinolytic state and hence increased thrombotic risk. In this study, we assessed the role of PAI-1 4G/5G promoter polymorphism in adult patients with splanchnic vein thrombosis. A total of 40 cases (portal vein thrombosis and Budd-Chiari syndrome) and 40 healthy controls were evaluated for the PAI-1 4G/5G polymorphism by amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction along with thrombophilia workup. The frequency of PAI-1 4G/4G homozygous, 4G/5G heterozygous and 5G/5G homozygous genotypes were 17.5%, 42.5% and 40%, respectively among cases and 22.5%, 50% and 27.5%, respectively among controls and the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.61). The  PAI-1 4G/4G genotype was significantly associated with the cases with deranged thrombophilic risk factor (both inherited and acquired) (p = 0.02).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12288-021-01454-5.

Evaluation of Platelet Indices in Patients with Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a rare and lethal form of venous thrombosis. The role of platelet indices (PI's) is not well studied in SVT. The present study was aimed to assess if the PI's have a significant association with SVT. This was a prospective case control study from coagulation laboratory of Hematology department. A total 100 cases of SVT and 80 controls were screened for PI's (MPV, PCT & PDW) and platelet count (PC) along with routine thrombophilic risk factors. The SVT cases were divided into 3 subgroups, that comprised of EHPVO/ PVT (n = 69), BCS (n = 27), and MVT (n = 4). The mean PC and PCT were significantly lower in patients than the controls. The PDW was significantly higher in cases than in the controls and MPV was relatively higher in cases however did not show statistical significance. In addition, 16 patients were found to have deranged thrombophilic risk factors. Among these, 8 cases had inherited risk factors (2: FVL; 5: PC; 1: PS) and 8 cases had acquired risk factors (2: APL; and 5: multiple factors and one case had both FVL mutation and APL positivity). The PDW and PCT together with PC were found to significantly differ in SVT cases than in controls, particularly in idiopathic cases. It may be worthwhile to explore the utility of PI's as a potential risk factor in SVT.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at (10.1007/s12288-021-01400-5).

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided transmural drainage of post-traumatic pancreatic fluid collections

Background

Pancreatic injury is an uncommon consequence of abdominal trauma, and surgery has been the conventional treatment. The role and timing of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided treatment of the consequences of traumatic pancreatic injury is unclear. Our study evaluated the safety and efficacy of EUS-guided transmural drainage of post-traumatic pancreatic fluid collections (PFC).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 13 patients (mean age 20.2±4.4 years; 12 males) with post-traumatic PFC treated with EUS-guided transmural drainage over the last 10 years was performed. Patient demographics, imaging findings, size of PFC, details of endoscopic transmural drainage procedure, outcome details, as well complications were retrieved from our database.

Results

The patients underwent drainage at 26.8±7.4 days after abdominal trauma, and the mean size of PFC was 11.8±3.2 cm with 2 patients having multiple fluid collections. Ten patients had PFC with a well-formed wall and 3 patients had an incompletely formed wall. Endoscopic drainage was technically successful in all 13 patients and 11 patients underwent transmural drainage with multiple plastic stents whereas 2 patients were treated with lumen apposing metal stents. The PFC resolved in all patients over a mean period of 2.7±0.4 weeks. One patient developed gastrointestinal bleeding 6 days after the procedure, successfully treated with angio-embolization.

Conclusion

EUS-guided transmural drainage of post-traumatic PFC is safe and effective and can be safely performed at an early phase (<4 weeks) after pancreatic trauma.

Safety and Efficacy of Early (<4 Weeks of Illness) Endoscopic Transmural Drainage of Post-acute Pancreatic Necrosis Predominantly Located in the Body of the Pancreas

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic transmural drainage is usually not performed for pancreatic necrotic collection (PNC) < 4 weeks after onset of acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP) because of lack of encapsulating wall and increased risk of complications.

OBJECTIVE

Study safety and efficacy of early (<4 weeks) endoscopic transluminal drainage in patients with symptomatic PNC.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of data base of patients with PNC treated with endoscopic transmural drainage within 4 weeks of onset of ANP (early drainage) was done. The outcomes and complications were compared with patients with PNC who underwent delayed endoscopic drainage (≥4 weeks of onset of ANP).

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients (26 males; mean age: 35.9 ± 8.6 years) underwent early and 136 patients (115 males; mean age: 37.9 ± 9.4 years) underwent delayed endoscopic drainage. The PNC was significantly larger (12.3 ± 2.1 cm vs 10.5 ± 2.7 cm, p <0.001) with increased solid component (47.7 ± 8.9% vs 28.3 ± 11.7%, p <0.001) in the early group. Clinical success was achieved in 94% patients in the early group and all patients in the delayed group. Direct endoscopic necrosectomy was performed more frequently in the early group (50% vs 7.4%; p<0.001). There was increased mortality (5.7% vs 0%), need for rescue surgical necrosectomy (5.7% vs 0%), and clinically significant bleeding (20% vs 1.5%, p<0.001) in the early group as compared to the delayed group.

CONCLUSION

Early endoscopic drainage of PNC is feasible and seems to be safe as well as effective but is associated with increased risk of complications as compared to delayed drainage.

Mediastinal Lymphadenopathy in Visceral Leishmaniasis

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) usually presents with malaise, fever, weight loss, and hepatosplenomegaly. Lymphadenopathy is rarely reported in patients with VL from India. We report an interesting case of VL, presenting with malaise, fever and weight loss along with isolated mediastinal lymphadenopathy and mimicked tuberculosis. Absence of spleen because of previous splenectomy for symptomatic portal hypertension led to difficulty in establishing the correct diagnosis that was eventually established by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA).

Streptokinase irrigation through a percutaneous catheter helps decrease the need for necrosectomy and reduces mortality in necrotizing pancreatitis as part of a step-up approach

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous catheter drainage in pancreatic necrosis with a predominant solid component has a reduced success rate. To improve the efficacy of percutaneous catheter drainage, we used streptokinase in the irrigation fluid in the present study.

METHODS

In this retrospective analysis of 4 prospective randomized studies performed at our center from 2014 to 2019, 108 patients were evaluated. We assessed the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of streptokinase irrigation compared to saline irrigation. Data were also analyzed between 50,000 IU and 150,000 IU streptokinase.

RESULTS

There were 53 patients in the streptokinase irrigation group and 55 in the saline irrigation group, and both groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, etiology, APACHE II score, and percutaneous catheter drainage characteristics. The modified computerised tomography severity index and modified Marshall score at the onset of pain were significantly higher in the streptokinase group. Sepsis reversal was significantly higher in the streptokinase group (75% vs 36%), and the need for necrosectomy (34% vs 54%) was also lower in the streptokinase group. Mortality was lower in the streptokinase group than in the saline group (32% vs 40%). The incidence of bleeding in the streptokinase group was lower than that in the saline group (7% vs 18%). A higher dose of streptokinase (150,000 IU) resulted in lower rates of necrosectomy, bleeding, and mortality compared to those with 50,000 IU streptokinase.

CONCLUSION

Significant reductions in the need for surgery and sepsis reversal were noted in the streptokinase group. The results using 150,000 IU streptokinase were superior to those using 50,000 IU streptokinase.

Impact of diabetes mellitus on morbidity and survival after pancreaticoduodenectomy for malignancy

Backgrounds/Aims

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a known risk factor for morbidity, length of hospital stay, or mortality after surgery, however, its impact on postoperative course and long-term survival after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is not clear.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained database of 141 patients with periampullary and pancreatic head adenocarcinoma operated between January 2001 and March 2019. Clinico-pathological records and follow-up data were retrieved and analyzed. Cumulative hazard was computed for comparing the survival between DM and non-DM.

Results

DM was present in 31/141 (21.9%) patients, while 16/31 (51.6%). were new-onset DM (NODM). Tumor size, lymphovascular & perineural invasion, type of surgery, lymph node positivity and R0 resection rate were comparable between diabetic and non-diabetic. There was no significant difference in postoperative pancreatic fistula, delayed gastric emptying, infectious complication, hospital stay and mortality between DM and nondiabetics. Patients with DM had worse survival at 3 years (OS: HR, 3.11 [1.43-6.76] p=0.004, DFS: HR, 2.61 [1.23-5.53] p=0.01) and 5 years (OS: HR, 3.32 [1.46-7.53] p=0.004, DFS: HR, 2.87 [1.29-6.41] p=0.009). On multivariate analysis, DM (3 year OS: HR, 2.61 [1.14-5.98] p=0.022, DFS: HR, 2.19; p=0.058) (5 year OS: HR, 2.55; p=0.04, DFS: HR, 2.25; p=0.068) and pylorus resecting surgery were significantly associated with worse survival at 3 and 5 years.

Conclusions

Preoperative DM has no significant effect on postoperative course but has negative impact on 3-year and 5-year OS and DFS after PD for pancreatic and periampullary adenocarcinoma.

SMILE-like lesion in the anal canal

Stratified mucin-producing intraepithelial lesion (SMILE) is an intraepithelial lesion with overlapping features of the high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) and adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS). Currently, it is well described in the cervix. We present a case showing similar SMILE-like lesions in the polypectomy specimen from the anal canal along with invasive adenocarcinoma components. This lesion showed an immuno-profile characteristic of a SMILE lesion described in the cervix, such as p63 negativity, high ki67 index, and nuclear positivity for p16. It might be arising from the Human papillomavirus prone transitional region of the anal canal as described in the cervix. However, we could not assure this association and etiological link due to insufficient material in the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded block. Notwithstanding, we strongly suggest that the HPV is the main driver for this SMILE-like lesion similar to what is described in the cervix. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a SMILE lesion in the anal canal. Further studies will be required to elucidate the underlying pathogenetic mechanism of SMILE-like lesions described in the anal canal.