Biliary Symptoms Research Articles

Management of Gallbladder Remnant and the Cystic Duct Stump Calculi: A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Gall bladder remnant and cystic duct stump calculi are reality in the era of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (LC). Despite a seemingly uneventful cholecystectomy, nearly 15% patients continue to have biliary symptoms; the post-cholecystectomy syndrome (PCS); which can manifest anytime from few days to several years after surgery This study aims to assess the safety and feasibility of Laparoscopic exploration of gallbladder remnant calculi leading to PCS. Materials and Methods: In this study, surgical explorations was done in 25 patients. The study considered parameters like the operative time, conversion rate, post-operative complications, post-operative hospital stay and mortality in these patients. The duration of study was 2 years and the data was retrospectively reviewed. Results: 25 patients diagnosed as symptomatic gallbladder remnant were identified. The most common symptoms at presentation included right upper quadrant pain (80%), Jaundice(12%) Cholangitis (4%). Symptoms began from 6 months to 25 years after index cholecystectomy. Diagnostic modalities utilized in the evaluation of these patients demonstrated that MRCP were effective with sensitivities of 100%. Of the 25 patients, 22 (88%) had completion LC . 3 patients (12%) were converted to open cholecystectomy because of dense adhesions and non-identification of structures laparoscopically. Conclusion: Diagnosis of residual GB stone is difficult. In expert hands and standard approach , completion LC of the gallbladder remnant can be performed within a reasonable operating time. There is low conversion rate with minimal post-operative complications and shorter hospital stay and minimal morbidity. Completion cholecystectomy can be challenging but is highly effective.

An Unencumbered Acute Care Surgeon Improves Delivery of Emergent Surgical Care for Cholecystectomy Patients.

Introduction:Many patients utilize the Emergency Room (ER) for primary care, resulting in overburdened ERs, strained resources, and delays in care. To combat this, many centers have adopted a Trauma/Acute Care Surgery (TACS) service providing specialty surgeons whose primary work is the unencumbered surgical availability to emergency surgery patients. To evaluate our programs’ efficacy, we investigated cholecystectomies as a common urgent procedure representative of services provided. We hypothesized that the adoption of a TACS service would result in improved access to care as evidence by decreased ER visits prior to cholecystectomy, improved time to cholecystectomy, and decreased hospital length of stay (LOS).Methods:All patients that underwent urgent cholecystectomy from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018 were reviewed. The unencumbered TACS surgeon was implemented on July 1, 2018. Prior ER visits involving biliary symptoms, time from admission to cholecystectomy, and hospital LOS were compared.Results:Of the 322 urgent cholecystectomies over the study period, 165 were performed prior and 157 following adoption of the TACS structure. The average number of ER visits for biliary symptoms prior to cholecystectomy decreased from 1.4 to 1.2 (p = 0.01). Time from admission to cholecystectomy was 28.3 hours and 27.3 hours respectively (p = 0.74). Average LOS decreased following the restructure (3.1 vs 2.5 days; p = 0.03).Conclusion:Implementation of an unencumbered TACS surgeon managing urgent surgical disease improves access to and delivery of surgical services for cholecystectomy patients in a safety net, level one trauma center. Further research is necessary to determine potential improvements in hospital cost and patient satisfaction.

Technical Feasibility of Single-Port Robotic Left Lateral Sectionectomy Using the da Vinci SP

The recent introduction of robot surgery system is bringing new innovation to the field of minimal invasive surgery. It was developed to overcome the disadvantages of conventional laparoscopic surgery. Well-known advantages of the robotic surgery such as improved vision of surgical field via three-dimentional vision, visual magnification , tremor suppression , and the flexibility and dexterity of the instruments have allowed precise and meticulous operation techniques. The da Vinci system has recently released a true single-port platform, the da Vinci SP system with 3 instrument which has the multi-joint (elbow and wrist) and flexible camera entering into one single port. We now present the first case of robotic liver resection using the da Vinci SP system, showing surgical technical feasibility. A 63-years old female presented with elevated liver function test(LFT) and abdominal pain. CT scan and MRCP shows that multiple intrahepatic duct stone at left lateral section and distal CBD stone near ampullar of vater. Thus, we removed distal CBD stone via ERCP. After performing ERCP, there were no biliary obstructive symptoms, so we doing operation after that. Docking time took 8 minites. The patient underwent successful da Vinci SP with a total operation time of 135 minutes. There was no significant intraoperative event. The patient was discharged post-operative 5 days after checking the CT scan without any surgical complication. We report a technique of left lateral sectionectomy without additional port. For active application of da Vinci SP in hepatobiliary surgery, more device development and further research are needed.

Treatment and Textbook Outcome in Patients with Cholelithiasis: Results of Three Multicenter Prospective Trials

Introduction: Current guidelines advise cholecystectomy as treatment for symptomatic cholelithiasis. However, not all patients present with characteristic biliary symptoms, as some have atypical abdominal symptoms. This study defined a textbook outcome (TO) and evaluated outcomes of patients with gallstone disease.

P-O03 The Management of Gallbladder Polyps at a Single Trust: Are we compliant with European Guidelines?

Abstract Background Gallbladder polyps affect approximately 5% of the global population, with rates highest in those of Indian descent. 10% of polyps will have malignant potential based on their size or rapid growth rate, which are associated with a poor 5-year survival once advanced of less than 25%. As gallbladder polyps are common but gallbladder cancer is rare, it is a diagnostic challenge to determine which polyps are likely to be malignant. Adherence to guidelines regarding radiological follow up and definitive treatment, in the form of a cholecystectomy, is therefore vital. Methods Retrospective data collection and analysis was completed for all patients who had a biliary ultrasound between December 2013 and December 2016 to enable 5-year follow up, and a snapshot of 47 patients selected at random. Patients having a gallbladder “polyp” documented on their scan report were eligible for inclusion and adherence to European Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology (ESGAR) guidelines was assessed. Results Within the cohort there was a mean age of 56 years, with a male:female ratio of 17:30. All patients included were Caucasian, with 41 reporting “biliary symptoms” as the indication for the primary ultrasound. 26 patients were not followed up in adherence to guidelines, with 50% due to the sonographer reporting follow-up was not indicated on initial scan, 5 having unchanged polyp size and 2 discharged by the responsible consultant. Of the 21 who were followed up according to guidelines, 20 had a cholecystectomy within 5years, with none of these patients having cancer detected on histology. Conclusions Over 50% of patients within our cohort were not followed up according to the ESGAR guidelines. Although no patients in the study were found to have malignant polyps, the sample size is relatively small and limited to low-risk groups. We aim to expand this audit both locally and regionally, raise awareness of the importance of surveillance across the multi-disciplinary team, and produce local guidance for the outpatient setting.

P-EGS23 Efficacy of Percutaneous Cholecystostomy and Timing of Tube Removal: An Observational Study from a busy District General Hospital

Abstract Background Percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) has traditionally been reserved for high-risk patients with cholecystitis who are unfit for surgical intervention, or as a temporizing measure for septic biliary patients to relieve sepsis and symptoms. However, there are currently no guidelines regarding the timing of tube removal following PC. The aim of this study is to evaluate the timing of tube removal following resolving inflammation and patency of biliary ducts, and its associated risks. Methods Patient notes and imaging reports were retrospectively reviewed from those who underwent percutaneous cholecystostomy from January 2015-Dec 2020. Data collected included demographic details, symptom presentation, requirement of ITU admissions, details of cholecystostomy, post-operative complications from the tube, outcomes following PC, and mortality rates within 30 days of the procedure. Patients were graded by their severity of their cholecystitis according to the 2018 Tokyo Guidelines, and these were correlated with morbidity and mortality outcomes within 1 year of the procedure. Results There were 55 females and 65 males, with a mean age of 75.2 years (range 45-96 years). Approximately 45% of patients were diabetic and had comorbidities. On presentation, 54% (65/120) patients had elevated inflammatory markers (WCC/CRP), and 20% of patients had associated deranged liver function tests. Majority of patients had moderate or severe acute cholecystitis, with over 25% (31/120) of patients presenting with sepsis, and 6 required admission to intensive care. The median time from diagnosis of acute cholecystitis to percutaneous cholecystostomy was 8.5 days (range 1-64 days). Tube removal was performed after a median time of 31 days (range 1-142 days). Morbidity rate was observed to be 8-10%, comprising of complications such as tube displacement, leakage around the drain, bleeding and liver abscesses. Only 18.3% (22/120) of patients were deemed to be fit for further surgical intervention, of which 13 of those underwent a cholecystectomy thereafter. Unsurprisingly, 38% of these patients had recurrent biliary symptoms, and a 30% mortality rate. Conclusions Percutaneous cholecystostomy is a safe option in high-risk surgical patients for symptom relief, and is a crucial step in temporizing and de-escalating sepsis. However, this study suggests that timing of cholecystostomy removal is variable, and is associated with high morbidity. Consideration needs to be given to shorten the time to tube removal, to minimise risks, if certain criteria are met to ensure safety and efficacy.

TP6.1.7 Systematic review and meta-analyses of cholecystectomy as a treatment of biliary hyperkinesia

Abstract Aims Biliary hyperkinesia is typically diagnosed in patients with biliary like pain and no evidence of gall stones on imaging modalities but who have had biliary scintigraphy scan (HIDA) that shows ejection fraction ≥80%. This study aims to identify whether the removal of the gall bladder can alleviate the symptoms associated with Biliary Hyperkinesia. Methods Systematic search following PRISMA guidelines was done from inception to January 2020 using PubMed/Medline, OVID, Embase, Cochrane database of systemic reviews, Cochrane central register of controlled trials, The Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE) and Cochrane library databases. Results were expressed as risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes together with 95% confidence intervals (CI) or mean differences (MD) or standardized MD (SMD) for continuous outcomes. A meta-analysis done using random-effect model in RevMan 5.4® software. Results Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. A total of 332 patients diagnosed with biliary hyperkinesia underwent cholecystectomy, of whom 303 (91.3%) reported symptomatic improvement RR 8.67 [95% CI 4.95, 15.16] P = 0.01. Six studies described abnormal histological features in 163/181 (90.05%) with high GB EF. RR 7.88 [95% CI 3.94, 15.75] P = 0.08. Chronic cholecystitis n = 155 (95%), cholesterolosis n = 7 (4.3%), and one showed features of acute cholecystitis. Conclusion Patients with typical biliary colic symptoms without gallstones and markedly high ejection fraction might benefit from having cholecystectomy to alleviate their symptoms.

P-82 URSODEOXYCHOLIC ACID AND/OR CIPROFIBRATE FOR TREATING PATIENTS WITH PRESUMPTIVE DIAGNOSIS OF LOW PHOSPHOLIPID CHOLELITHIASIS, A CLINICAL SPECTRUM OF PROGRESSIVE FAMILIAL INTRAHEPATIC CHOLESTASIS TYPE 3

Low Phospholipid-Associated Cholelithiasis (LPAC) is a clinical spectrum of Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis type 3 (PFIC3), with mutations in the ABCB4 gene, reduced levels of phosphatidylcholine in bile, formation of cholesterol gallstones, damage of bile ducts epithelium and cholestasis. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is effective and fibrates may also be used to activate PPAR - α receptor, inducing bile secretion of phosphatidylcholine. Retrospectively evaluate efficacy and safety of ciprofibrate in LPAC/PFIC3. Diagnosis of PFIC3 was confirmed by detection of mutations of ABCB4 gene. LPAC diagnosis was suggested by 2 out of 5 criteria: biliary symptoms before 40 years; recurrence after cholecystectomy; intrahepatic lithiasis; cholelithiasis in first‐degree relatives; intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy or contraceptive‐induced cholestasis. Enzymes, liver function and pruritus were analyzed after 3, 6 and 12 months of UDCA and after ciprofibrate 100mg/day using the Wilcoxon test. 27(93%) patients with clinical diagnosis of LPAC and 2 of PFIC3. 23 (79%) female with mean age at onset of symptoms of 26.7±13.6 years. 23(80%) had family history of biliary disease; 22(76%) cholelithiasis before 40 years; 7(24%) intrahepatic lithiasis. 22/29 (78%) received ciprofibrate after 4.5±4.9 months of UDCA use, in a mean dose of 13.1±2.2mg/kg/day. During UDCA there was a significant decrease in aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase(AP) and gamma-glutamyltransferase(GGT) levels, without significant improvement in the liver function. After addition of fibrate, pruritus disappeared in all 7 patients, with significant improvement of AP, GGT and albumin in the third month. There was no significant renal dysfunction. Fibrate was discontinued in 8: 1 liver transplantation, 2 irregular use, 5 side effects. 27 patients are still in follow up. Ciprofibrate was beneficial to improve pruritus and laboratory tests in LPAC/PFIC3 after partial response with UDCA. Fibrate therapy was safe and well tolerated.

An Evidence-Based Approach to Nursing Recognition and Management of Early Sepsis in Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage (PTBD)

<h3>Introduction</h3> Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage (PTBD) is an interventional radiology (IR) procedure indicated for relief of biliary obstructive symptoms: pruritus, jaundice ang cholangitis cause by benign or malignant conditions. Gallstones, cholangiocarcinoma and hepatobiliary malignancy are frequently seen to cause sepsis. <h3>Identification of the Problem</h3> Although PTBD is generally a safe procedure, significant complications manifest as systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) that leads to mortality. Early post anesthesia care unit (PACU) nursing recognition is critical in effectively managing these high risk patients. <h3>EBP Question/Purpose: PICO question. Databases utilized</h3> What is the best practice for patients post biliary drain placement presenting symptoms of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS)? (P) Patients post PTBD; (I) Early recognition of SIRS; (C) Prompt/early management of SIRS compare to standard care in alleviating sepsis (O). The evidence-based practice (EBP) searches were conducted using PUBMED/CINAHL databases. <h3>Methods/Evidence</h3> The evidence reviewed from PUBMED/CINAHL ranged from 2013 to 2019. Mesh terms were: interventional, biliary drainage, PTBD, pathophysiology, cholangitis, symptoms, complications, sepsis and SIRS. The first search yielded eight out of 36 articles that met PICO criteria. The second and final search included eight additional articles with terms of mortality and patient outcomes. <h3>Significance of Findings/Outcomes</h3> EBP appraisal revealed compelling science for recognizing and managing early SIRS in PTBD patients. Team created an EBP algorithm (see poster) that was effective for PACU nurses in early recognition of SIRS and prompt PACU nursing management to mitigate deteriorating symptoms of increased heart rates and rigors followed by fevers to improve quality patient care. <h3>Implications for perianesthesia nurses and future research</h3> Post PTBD SIRS can be challenging for PACU nurses to manage life-threatening complications. Evidence supports the development of an algorithm tool that focuses on recognition, assessment, and appropriate management of SIRS in this population. The science recommends easy accessibility of standing physician order sets, including medications, such as intravenous (IV) fluids, IV antibiotics, and acetaminophen as SIRS management in PACU strategies to facilitate positive patient outcomes.

Biliary hyperkinesia in adolescents-it isn't all hype!

Biliary dyskinesia generally refers to a hypofunctioning gallbladder with an ejection fraction (EF) of <35% on hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan with cholecystokinin stimulation (CCK-HIDA testing). In adults, biliary hyperkinesia has a defined association with biliary colic symptoms and can be relieved with surgical intervention. This clinical entity has not been well described in children or adolescents. In fact, only recently have we seen biliary hyperkinesia on HIDA at our centers. To that end, we reviewed our recent experience with adolescents who have presented and been treated for this unusual clinical entity. With IRB approval, we retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients with abnormally high HIDA EFs (>80%) cared for by the pediatric surgery services at two tertiary care centers over the span of a three-year period. Age, sex, BMI, CCK-HIDA results, and preoperative testing and post-operative pathology were noted. Resolution of symptoms was determined by subjective patient self-reporting at postoperative visit. Eighteen patients met inclusion criteria. Average age 15.7 (range, 10-17 years), median BMI 27.3 (±8.2). Fifteen patients were female and 3 were male. Average CCK-HIDA EF was 91.6% (±5.2), 82.4% of the patients had evidence of chronic cholecystitis and/or cholesterolosis on pathology. Postoperatively, 82.4% of the patients available for follow up (n=17) reported complete or near complete resolution of symptoms. Biliary hyperkinesia is an emerging clinical entity in children and adolescents and has a similar presentation to biliary hypokinesia. While the pathophysiologic mechanism of pain is not fully elucidated, laparoscopic cholecystectomy appears to provide a surgical cure for these patients and should be considered in the differential for the patient with an unremarkable workup and history suggestive of biliary colic.

Systematic review and meta-analyses of cholecystectomy as a treatment of biliary hyperkinesia.

Biliary hyperkinesia is typically diagnosed in patients with biliary-like pain and no evidence of gall stones on imaging modalities but who have had biliary scintigraphy scan (HIDA) that shows ejection fraction ≥ 80%. This study aims to identify whether the removal of the gall bladder can alleviate the symptoms associated with biliary hyperkinesia. Systematic search following PRISMA guidelines was done from inception to January 2020 using PubMed/Medline, OVID, Embase, Cochrane database of systemic reviews, Cochrane central register of controlled trials, The Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE) and Cochrane library databases. Results were expressed as risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes together with 95% confidence intervals (CI) or mean differences (MD) or standardized MD (SMD) for continuous outcomes. A meta-analysis was done using random-effect model in RevMan 5.4® software. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. A total of 332 patients diagnosed with biliary hyperkinesia underwent cholecystectomy, of whom 303 (91.3%) reported symptomatic improvement RR 8.67 (95% CI 4.95, 15.16) P = 0.01. Six studies described abnormal histological features in 163/181 (90.05%) with high GB EF. RR 7.88 (95% CI 3.94, 15.75) P = 0.08. Chronic cholecystitis n = 155 (95%), cholesterolosis n = 7 (4.3%), and one showed features of acute cholecystitis. Patients with typical biliary colic symptoms without gallstones and markedly high ejection fraction might benefit from having cholecystectomy to alleviate their symptoms.

COVID-19 outbreak and acute cholecystitis in a Hub Hospital in Milan: wider indications for percutaneous cholecystostomy

BackgroundCOVID-19 pandemic has impacted the Italian National Health Care system at many different levels, causing a complete reorganization of surgical wards. In this context, our study retrospectively analysed the management strategy for patients with acute cholecystitis.MethodsWe analysed all patients admitted to our Emergency Department for acute cholecystitis between February and April 2020 and we graded each case according to 2018 Tokyo Guidelines. All patients were tested for positivity to SARS-CoV-2 and received an initial conservative treatment. We focused on patients submitted to cholecystostomy during the acute phase of pandemic and their subsequent disease evolution.ResultsThirty-seven patients were admitted for acute cholecystitis (13 grade I, 16 grade II, 8 grade III). According to Tokyo Guidelines (2018), patients were successfully treated with antibiotic only, bedside percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PC) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in 29.7%, 21.6% and 48.7% of cases respectively. Therapeutic strategy of three out of 8 cases, otherwise fit for surgery, submitted to bedside percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (37.5%), were directly modified by COVID-19 pandemic: one due to the SARS-CoV-2 positivity, while two others due to unavailability of operating room and intensive care unit for post-operative monitoring respectively. Overall success rate of percutaneous cholecystostomy was of 87.5%. The mean post-procedural hospitalization length was 9 days, and no related adverse events were observed apart from transient parietal bleeding, conservatively treated. Once discharged, two patients required readmission because of acute biliary symptoms. Median time of drainage removal was 43 days and only 50% patients thereafter underwent cholecystectomy.ConclusionsPercutaneous cholecystostomy has shown to be an effective and safe treatment thus acquiring an increased relevance in the first phase of the pandemic. Nowadays, considering we are forced to live with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, PC should be considered as a virtuous, alternative tool for potentially all COVID-19 positive patients and selectively for negative cases unresponsive to conservative therapy and unfit for surgery.

Fully Covered Self-Expanding Metal Stent vs Multiple Plastic Stents to Treat Benign Biliary Strictures Secondary to Chronic Pancreatitis: A Multicenter Randomized Trial

Benign biliary strictures (BBS) are complications of chronic pancreatitis (CP). Endotherapy using multiple plastic stents (MPS) or a fully covered self-expanding metal stent (FCSEMS) are acceptable treatment options for biliary obstructive symptoms in these patients. Patients with symptomatic CP-associated BBS enrolled in a multicenter randomized noninferiority trial comparing 12-month treatment with MPS vs FCSEMS. Primary outcome was stricture resolution status at 24 months, defined as absence of restenting and 24-month serum alkaline phosphatase not exceeding twice the level at stenting completion. Secondary outcomes included crossover rate, numbers of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCPs) and stents, and stent- or procedure-related serious adverse events. Eighty-four patients were randomized to MPS and 80 to FCSEMS. Baseline technical success was 97.6% for MPS and 98.6% for FCSEMS. Eleven patients crossed over from MPS to FCSEMS, and 10 from FCSEMS to MPS. For MPS vs FCSEMS, respectively, stricture resolution status at 24 months was 77.1% (54/70) vs 75.8% (47/62) (P= .008 for noninferiority intention-to-treat analysis), mean number of ERCPs was 3.9 ± 1.3 vs 2.6 ± 1.3 (P < .001, intention-to-treat), and mean number of stents placed was 7.0 ± 4.4 vs 1.3 ± .6 (P < .001, as-treated). Serious adverse events occurred in 16 (19.0%) MPS and 19 (23.8%) FCSEMS patients (P= .568), including cholangitis/fever/jaundice (9 vs 7 patients respectively), abdominal pain (5 vs 5), cholecystitis (1 vs 3) and post-ERCP pancreatitis (0 vs 2). No stent- or procedure-related deaths occurred. Endotherapy of CP-associated BBS has similar efficacy and safety for 12-month treatment using MPS compared with a single FCSEMS, with FCSEMS requiring fewer ERCPs over 2 years. (ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT01543256.).

Complicated Acute Cholecystitis: The Role of C-Reactive Protein and Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio as Predictive Markers of Severity.

ObjectivesThe clinical diagnosis of complicated acute cholecystitis (CAC) remains difficult with several pathological or ultrasonography criteria used to differentiate it from uncomplicated acute cholecystitis (UAC). This study aims to evaluate the use of combined inflammatory markers C-reactive protein (CRP) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as surrogate markers to differentiate between UAC and CAC.MethodsWe identified 600 consecutive patients admitted with biliary symptoms during an acute surgical take from our electronic prospectively maintained database over a period of 55 months. Only patients undergoing emergency cholecystectomy performed during the index admission were included. The primary outcome was the finding of CAC versus UAC.ResultsA total of 176 patients underwent emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) during the index admission, including 118 (67%) females with a median age of 51 years (range: 21-97 years). The proportion of UAC (130 [74%]) and CAC (46 [26%]) was determined along with demographic data. Multivariate regression analysis showed that patient’s age (OR=1.047; p=0.003), higher CRP (OR=1.005; p=0.012) and NLR (OR=1.094; p=0.047) were significant independent factors associated with severity of cholecystitis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis for CRP showed an AUC (area under the curve) of 0.773 (95% CI: 0.698- 0.849). Using a cut-off value of 55 mg/L for CRP, the sensitivity of CAC was 73.9% and specificity was 73.1% in predicting CAC. The median post-operative length of stay was four days. The conversion rate from laparoscopic cholecystectomy to open surgery was 2% (4/176), and 5% (9/176) patients suffered post-operative complications with no mortality at 30 days.ConclusionCRP, NLR and age were independent factors associated with the severity of acute cholecystitis. NLR and CRP can be used as surrogate markers to predict patients at risk of CAC during emergency admission, which can inform future guidelines. Moreover, ELC for CAC can be safely performed under the supervision of dedicated upper GI surgeons.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Gallbladder Dysfunction and Polyps: Incidence and Follow up.

Aim:This study aims to evaluate the incidence, indications, management, and long term follow up of cholecystectomy in patients with no gallstones, other than acalculous acute cholecystitis.Methods:Prospectively collected data of 5675 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) over 28 years was extracted and analyzed. Patients with biliary symptoms, no stones on ultrasound scans and abnormal hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scans, and those with confirmed gallbladder polyps (GBP) were included.Results:Two percent of cholecystectomies were performed in patients with acalculous pathology [1.3% functional gallbladder disorder (FGBD) and 0.7% GBP]. The 114 patients were younger, had lower American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, and had fewer previous biliary admissions than those with gallstones (5560). The clinical presentations of FGBD were chronic biliary symptoms (93.1%) and acute biliary pain (6.9%). GBP patients presented with chronic biliary symptoms. LC in 98.6% FGBD and 92.8% GBP were significantly easier than those for gall stones (P < 0.0001). They were significantly (P < 0.0001 FGBD and P < 0.001 GBP) less likely to have adhesions to the gallbladder. This ease was reflected in shorter operation times and lower utilization of abdominal drains. Polyp numbers ranged from 1 to 30 and sizes from 1 mm to 11 mm. No malignant polyps were encountered. In 95.8% FGBD and 95% GBP, patients had a good symptomatic response to LC.Conclusions:FGBD and GBP are uncommon in patients undergoing LC. FGBD should be considered during evaluation of right upper quadrant pain with no gall stones. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy may be considered as it achieves long term symptomatic relief in most patients with FGBD and GBP.

Symptom resolution of bile reflux gastritis after transoral gastric outlet reduction in a patient with Billroth II anastomosis.

Endoscopic transoral outlet reduction (TORe) utilizing a full thickness endoscopic suturing device is a minimally invasive therapeutic option in bariatric surgery patients who have experienced weight gain, but also can be used in patients who underwent Billroth II (B-II) procedure with biliary reflux symptoms.

Role of biliary diversion in addition to head coring in case of CCP with head mass and biliary stricture

Introduction: Biliary strictures as a consequence of Chronic pancreatitis(CP) have long been recognized. Clinical presentation of biliary stricture varies from an incidental finding to overt jaundice and cholangitis. Head coring is the recommended treatment in a subset of patients with head mass who develop biliary symptoms. Aim: We want to report on our experience regarding surgical management in CP with head mass and benign biliary stricture. Method: Observational study (Retrospective - prospective study). Results: Over a period of 3 years, we have managed 80 cases of CP at our institution by surgical intervention. Presenting symptoms, laboratory findings with radio-imaging, operative procedures and follow-up parameters of these patients were collected from our prospective database. Total 21 (26%) patients had biliary obstruction in the background of CP, out of which 15 (19%) patients had a mass lesion in head of pancreas. The most commonly performed operation was Frey's procedure with Choledocho-jejunostomy in 6(40%) patients, while other procedure were Choledocho-duodenostomy in 4(27%), Hepatico-jejunostomy in 1(7%), Cholecysto-jejunostomy in 1(7%), Cholecystectomy in 2(13%) and 1(7%) patient with hard head mass with regional lymphadenopathy had undergone Whipple's procedure. Two patients came with recurrent biliary stricture after 3 years of Frey's Procedure with cholecytectomy, underwent Choledocho-jejunostomy. Conclusion: Biliary diversion is still the best option for CP with head mass and benign biliary stricture in addition to Frey's procedure, since head coring alone is not an adequate operation in the management of biliary obstruction in CCP with head mass.

S1869 Transoral Gastric Outlet Reduction in a Patient With Billroth II Anastomosis for the Treatment of Severe Bile Acid Reflux

INTRODUCTION: Endoscopic transoral outlet reduction (TORe) utilizing a full thickness endoscopic suturing device is a minimally invasive therapeutic option in bariatric surgery patients who have experienced weight gain. This procedure can be therapeutic not only for weight gain after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB), but also can be used in patients who underwent Billroth II procedure with biliary reflux symptoms. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: A 68-year-old female patient with a past medical history of hypertension, dyslipidemia and prior Billroth II procedure for management of peptic ulcer disease presented with severe epigastric pain and bloating after meals refractory to PPI use. She underwent an EGD and was diagnosed with severe biliary gastritis. Transoral endoscopic gastric outlet reduction was recommended for this patient. A diagnostic flexible endoscope was advanced to the site of gastroduodenal anastomosis. Then, the gastric mucosa on the side of the anastomosis was aggressively ablated using argon plasma coagulation (APC). An endoscopic scissor was then used for trimming the previous suture remnants. A double channel scope was then inserted with the OverStitch device. A 2-0 Prolene suture was placed at the 3 O'clock position using full thickness running suture technique. A total of 4 bites were used. The suture was subsequently tightened with the creation of pseudo-pyloric opening. A total of one cinch was deployed to keep the suturing material permanently reinforced. No complications occurred throughout the procedure. Post-procedure follow up was normal with complete resolution of the patient's symptoms. DISCUSSION: Transoral endoscopic gastric outlet reduction is an emerging procedure used to manage weight gain after RYGB. The two-fold running suture technique is a novel method that can be used very effectively in this procedure. We have demonstrated that transoral outlet gastric reduction is not only effective for patients who have gained weight after RYGB, but also therapeutic in the improvement of biliary reflux symptoms after Billroth II procedure.Figure 1.: Argon plasma coagulation of the anastomotic margin.Figure 2.: Endoscopic suturing using the Apollo OverStitch device.Figure 3.: Creation of pseudo-pyloric opening.

S2604 Acute Severe Cholestatic Hepatitis B Infection in an Immune-Competent Patient

INTRODUCTION: Acute severe cholestatic hepatitis B is uncommon and usually reported in organ transplant recipients. We report a unique case of acute HBV infection with severe cholestasis in an immune-competent patient whose symptoms were initially felt to be secondary to complications from choledocholithiasis. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: A 67-year-old female presented with right upper quadrant (RUQ) pain, vomiting, fatigue & jaundice for 2 weeks. She had a new sexual partner with unknown hepatitis status. The patient had no history of alcohol, drug use or new medications. RUQ tenderness & scleral icterus were noted on exam. Labs showed AST-629u/l (Normal[N]: 10–40 u/l), ALT-497u/l (N: 12–78 u/l), ALP-294u/l (N: 33–138 u/l), T. Bili-8.4mg/dl (N: 0.0–1.5 mg/dl), D. Bili-7.5mg/dl (N: 0.0 −1.5mg/dl), INR-1. On ultrasound of the abdomen cholelithiasis with gall bladder wall thickening with normal biliary ducts was noted. Endoscopic ultrasound revealed a 2.5 mm filling defect without shadowing in distal common bile duct (CBD) & Endoscopic retrograde pancreatic duodenoscopy showed a small filling defect in mid CBD and a distal CBD stricture about 1–2 cm in length. Biopsy of CBD stricture showed inflammation. A plastic biliary stent was deployed with good drainage. Her liver tests did not improve, and additional investigations performed were positive for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg), core antibody Total (Anti HBc Total) & core IgM, Hepatitis e antigen (HBeAg). She was negative for Hepatitis B e antibody (HBeAb) and Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb). HBV PCR was 765,000,000 IU/ml. She was discharged with a follow up scheduled in liver clinic, but was readmitted 2 weeks later with worsening fatigue & liver tests. A liver biopsy showed active hepatitis without evidence of bridging fibrosis or cirrhosis & positive HBV staining. Anti-viral therapy with Tenofovir was initiated with improvement in symptoms. DISCUSSION: Although several case reports describe severe cholestasis with HBV post-liver transplantation, it has rarely been described in immunocompetent patients. Our patient's presentation was initially concerning for biliary obstruction. Despite biliary drainage patient's symptoms worsened, & further investigations revealed acute HBV infection with high replication which was confirmed by biopsy. Prompt therapy with antivirals improved the clinical course. Given these findings one should have high index of suspicion to evaluate for HBV infection in unusual presentation with cholestasis.Figure 1.: Immunohistochemical stain highlights Hepatitis B surface antigen within the cytoplasm of hepatocytes (200X magnification).Figure 2.: Hepatic parenchyma with dense mixed acute and chronic inflammation throughout the hepatic lobule and intermixed ceroid-laden macrophages removing dead hepatocytes (100x magnification).Figure 3.: Hepatic parenchyma with dense mixed acute and chronic inflammation throughout the hepatic lobule and intermixed ceroid-laden macrophages removing dead hepatocytes (200 X magnification).

Sonographically determined clues to the symptomatic or silent cholelithiasis.

To determine an association between sonographically determined contractility with the symptomatic or silent nature of gallstone. Designing: Comparative, cross-sectional study. Radiology Department, Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) and Civil Hospital, Karachi (CHK), from April 2004 to March 2005. Adult gallstone patients without (group I) and with biliary symptoms (group II) were compared with age and gender-matched controls. Demographic data, body mass index, risk factors, size, number and mobility of gallstone, gallbladder wall thickness (GBWT), volume and Ejection Fraction (EF) were determined on ultrasound before and after a standardized fatty meal (BFM and AFM). Demographic data, risk factors and gallstone characteristics were analyzed by Pearson Chi-square test and the gallbladder characteristics were analyzed by One-way ANOVA and Post Hoc tests by multiple comparisons on SPSS 11 with significance p=0.05. The gallbladder contractility as measured by changes in wall thickness and volume changes BFM and AFM, and ejection fraction was similar in controls and asymptomatic cholelithiasis groups and significantly reduced in symptomatic patients (p < .001). Multiparity (p=0.002), female gender (p=0.018), age less than 50 years (0.05), impacted calculi (p=0.001), multiple calculi (< .001) and calculi 5mm (p < 0.001) were associated with pain. A sluggishly emptying gallbladder was more significantly associated with symptomatic cholelithiasis compared to controls and asymptomatic cholelithiasis state in this series. Consideration of age, gender, impaction of calculi, number and size of calculi is important in causing symptom state and management options.