Kasai Portoenterostomy Research Articles

Role of percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage for managing bile lake formation after Kasai portoenterostomy.

Bile lake (BL) formation following Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE) can complicate the prognosis of biliary atresia (BA). Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) performed under fluoroscopic/ultrasonographic (US) guidance is discussed for the management of BL. A retrospective review of 64 BA patients treated by KPE (open = 31, laparoscopic = 33) at a single center (2004-2023) identified 9 BL cases (9/64; 14.1%). PTBD was indicated for jaundice or cholangitis refractory to antibiotic therapy. All BL were asymptomatic, diagnosed after an episode of postoperative cholangitis. KPE type was not correlated with BL incidence; 2/31 (6.5%) for open and 7/33 (21.2%) for laparoscopic; p = 0.15. Median onset was postoperative day 273 (IQR: 170-920). One case resolved with antibiotics while another case required early liver transplantation (LTx) due to advanced hepatic dysfunction unrelated to BL. All remaining cases (7/9) had PTBD at a median of 14.3months (IQR: 7.3-34.7) post-KPE, with successful resolution in 6/7; one case required two PTBD procedures. Post-PTBD biliary peritonitis (n = 3) was resolved by abdominal lavage (laparoscopic = 2; open = 1). Screening for BL is advisable in all postoperative BA patients especially when cholangitis occurs. Although the risk for biliary peritonitis warrants caution, PTBD seems a viable option for managing BL formation after KPE.

Enhanced lymphangiogenesis in the left lateral segment of a biopsied liver during portoenterostomy for biliary atresia

PurposeWe investigate the histopathology of the portal vein branches and lymphatic vessels to elucidate the mechanism of atrophy of the left lateral segment (LLS) of the liver in biliary atresia (BA).MethodsLLS and right anterior segment (RAS) liver biopsy samples obtained during Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE) from ten consecutive patients with BA underwent histopathological investigation of the portal vein and lymphatic vessels using double chromogenic immunostaining for CD31/D2-40 and the hepatitis-like findings (HLF) score. Each parameter and clinical data were compared between prognostic groups.ResultsHLF scores in the LLS were always higher than those in the RAS. There was no difference in portal vein and lymphatic vascular morphology, whereas the number of lymphatic vessels was correlated with the fibrotic area of all specimen areas. Left-to-right ratio of the number of lymphatic vessels was correlated with the age at KPE (r = 0.784, p = 0.007) and the pre-KPE CRP value (r = 0.723, p = 0.018).ConclusionsLymphangiogenesis on the LLS compared to the RAS was significantly correlated with the degree of fibrosis and the age at KPE. Further investigation is warranted to clarify the causes of LLS atrophy and lymphangiogenesis relevant to immune dysregulation.

The Assessment and Management of Biliary Atresia in Hawai'i, 2009-2023.

Although biliary atresia (BA) is a rare neonatal disorder, it remains the leading cause of pediatric end-stage liver disease. Early diagnosis of BA and treatment with the Kasai procedure can significantly reduce the need for pediatric liver transplant. Current data suggests that performing the Kasai procedure at 30-45 days of life is associated with longer native liver survival rates and reduction of the need for liver transplant. The incidence rate of BA in the state of Hawai'i is nearly double the incidence rate in the continental US. International studies have demonstrated that screening programs for BA reduce the age at diagnosis and treatment. However, there has been no statewide analysis on the ages at diagnosis or at Kasai, nor does a statewide screening program for BA exist. The purpose of this study is to review the age of diagnosis and treatment of BA to determine if the current practice in Hawai'i is in line with the published data. A retrospective chart review of all patients diagnosed with BA at the state's primary children's hospital was performed (2009-2023) and 19 patients who underwent the Kasai procedure were identified. The mean age at diagnosis is 71.4 days (n=19) and the mean age at Kasai procedure is 72.0 days (n=19). Both the average age at diagnosis and treatment for BA in Hawai'i is significantly higher than published data suggesting best outcomes at 30-45 days of life. This review suggests that the implementation of a statewide screening program for BA in Hawai'i is warranted.

Newborn screening for biliary atresia using direct bilirubin: An implementation science study.

Biliary atresia (BA) is a liver disease of infancy characterized by obstruction of the biliary tree. Infants with BA have the best outcomes when identified early and the Kasai portoenterostomy is performed before 45 days of life (DoL). In our hospital system, the average age at Kasai was 60 DoL. To address the problem of late presentation, we implemented a two-stage BA screening strategy utilizing direct bilirubin (DB). New institutional policies were established that all newborns were tested at 24-48 h of life, and those with levels ≥0.5 mg/dL were followed further. The infant's primary care provider was contacted to recommend a repeat DB at 2 weeks of life. If the repeat DB was ≥1.0 mg/dL, the patient was evaluated by gastroenterology. Over the 16 months, 3880 infants were born and 3861 (99.5%) were screened; 53 infants (1.3%) had DB levels ≥0.5 mg/dL initially. Upon repeat testing at 2 weeks, there were three groups of infants: not retested (n = 1), retested <1.0 mg/dL (n = 40), and retested ≥1.0 mg/dL (n = 12). The average time to be seen by gastroenterology was 4.3 days or 18.3 DoL. The screening included a series of steps that needed to be implemented effectively. Screening had a net false positive rate of 0.3% (12 out of 3861) and identified causes of cholestasis other than BA. BA was excluded by 28 DoL on average. Our results can provide a template for other institutions interested in implementing a BA screening protocol in their practice.

Identification of Novel Biomarkers for Post-Kasai Portoenterostomy in Biliary Atresia through Shotgun Proteomics Analysis

Introduction: Biliary Atresia (BA) causes neonatal cholestasis jaundice. The primary therapeutic treatment for BA is the Kasai portoenterostomy. Current diagnostic approaches for BA are imprecise and time-consuming, making early diagnosis crucial for successful treatment outcomes. Objective: This study aims to analyze proteins from Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) obtained from children with BA compared with healthy children Methods and Study Design: We employed a large-scale, total shotgun quantitative serum proteomics approach to analyze the protein from PBMC samples from a discovery cohort. This approach allowed for the simultaneous identification and quantification of multiple proteins, enabling the detection of disease-specific protein expression patterns. The study is proteomic-based study. Results: We identified 24 proteins, by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis that exhibited high discriminatory power for five subjects with BA post-Kasai operation compared to ten healthy controls. ATP2A3, LIN28B, SLC25A3, ITGB3, COX5A, and HLA-B identified proteins of upregulation were predicted to associate with BA post-Kasai operation. Discussion: Our findings highlight the utility of proteomic techniques in BA research. The identified proteomic markers offer promise for improving BA diagnostic accuracy and timeliness, leading to enhanced treatment outcomes for affected children. Conclusion: Proteomic analysis revealed a set of potential biomarkers for early and accurate diagnosis of biliary atresia. These biomarkers hold significant clinical value and have the potential to transform the management of biliary atresia by facilitating timely intervention and improving patient outcomes.

Calcification of the mesenteric veins suspected of idiopathic mesenteric phlebosclerosis associated with long‐term herbal medicine ‘inchinkoto’ prescribed for biliary atresia: A multicenter study

AbstractAimInchinkoto (ICKT) is administered to patients with biliary atresia (BA) after surgery. Gardeniae fructus which is contained in ICKT is reported to be associated with idiopathic mesenteric phlebosclerosis (IMP). We investigated the influence of ICKT on calcification of the mesenteric veins suspected of IMP in BA patients.MethodsAll BA patients with native liver survival who received ICKT after Kasai portoenterostomy were reviewed. All patients underwent abdominal computed tomography (CT) during treatment. Calcification of the mesenteric veins on the most recent CT scan after the initiation of ICKT was assessed.ResultsTwenty patients (6 males and 14 females) were enrolled in this study. Of these patients, 17 (85.0%) and 10 (50%) patients had used ICKT for ≥5 years and &gt;10 years, respectively. Calcification of the mesenteric veins was detected in one patient, who was a 14 year old girl. The total dosage of Gardeniae fructus was 21 800 g.ConclusionsThe incidence of calcification of the mesenteric veins in BA patients receiving ICKT was low. However, it is necessary to be aware that ICKT containing Gardeniae fructus is associated with the risk of developing calcification of the mesenteric veins suspected of IMP.

A case series of prenatal hepatic hilar cyst in the presence of a gallbladder - navigating the dilemma between biliary atresia and choledochal cyst

BackgroundPrenatally diagnosed hepatic hilar cysts are a challenging finding for the clinician. They can either be a sign of cystic biliary atresia (BA) or a choledochal cyst (CC), two diagnoses with different postnatal management and prognosis. Based on a case report of four patients, we aim to propose a management algorithm for prenatally diagnosed “hepatic hilar cysts”.Case presentationA hepatic hilar cyst, ranging from 5 to 25 mm, was detected prenatally in all four girls confirmed postnatally along with the presence of a gallbladder. Stool color was normal until two weeks of life at which time the stool color became lighter, and the patients developed cholestasis. All were operated before seven weeks of life: Case 1 had a CC with patent but irregular intrahepatic bile ducts at intraoperative cholangiogram, and no communication with the duodenum. A Roux-en-Y bilioenteric anastomosis was performed. The cyst showed complete epithelial lining loss, and liver pathology showed BA features. Case 2 had the final diagnosis of cystic BA with patent but abnormal intrahepatic bile ducts. She underwent two operations: the first operation at four weeks as described for case 1, since intraoperative findings were similar, as was histology. As cholestasis increased postoperatively, she underwent a Kasai hepato-porto-enterostomy six weeks later, where distinct BA findings were found with complete scarring of the hilar plate. Case 3 had a cystic BA with the cyst located within the common bile duct and atretic bile ducts proximal to the porta hepatis. It exhibited no communication with the liver or duodenum. A Kasai operation was performed, with histology showing complete epithelial loss within the cyst wall and scarring of the hilar plate. Case 4 had a cystic BA presenting a completely obliterated hepatic duct with the cyst lying within the common bile duct. A Kasai procedure was performed. Histology showed a common bile duct with a residual lumen of 0.1 mm.ConclusionsThe spectrum of disease from CC to BA in the setting of a prenatally discovered hepatic hilar cyst is emphasized. Even if cholangiogram differentiates most patients with BA from those with CC, caution is advised for transitional types.

The Predictive Value of Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase on Jaundice Clearance in Biliary Atresia: An Evidence-Based Case Report and Meta-Analysis

Background: Biliary atresia (BA) is a neonatal condition characterized by the obstruction of extrahepatic bile ducts. Case: A 2-year-old female with BA underwent a Kasai procedure at 3 months of age. Despite the surgery, she developed persistent jaundice and abdominal enlargement. Preoperative laboratory findings revealed elevated liver enzymes, GGT, and bilirubin levels. This case raises the clinical question of whether preoperative GGT levels can predict JC after the Kasai procedure, in addition to its role in diagnosis. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed on 4 databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Proquest) by using relevant keywords and identified seven high quality studies. Results: Five studies found higher GGT levels in patients who achieved JC following Kasai surgery, compared to those with unsuccessful jaundice clearance (JUC). However, two studies reported conflicting findings. A pooled analysis indicated a non-significant trend toward higher GGT levels in the JC group compared to the JUC group (WMD: 65.6, 95% CI: -58.6; 189.8). Conclusion: Elevated preoperative GGT levels may be associated with improved JC in BA patients. However, further investigation to validate these findings, determine the optimal role of GGT in assessing prognosis, and later, guiding treatment decisions in BA patients.

Morio Kasai Corrects the Uncorrectable: Hepatic Portoenterostomy for Biliary Atresia

One of the fundamental innovations of pediatric surgery is hepatic portoenterostomy for biliary atresia, widely known as the Kasai procedure for its originator, Morio Kasai (1922–2008), of Sendai, Japan. It was the first effective operation for the “uncorrectable” form of biliary atresia, where death within months from biliary cirrhosis was certain. His radical premise was that microscopic ductules present in the fibrous tissue of the porta hepatis, when transected, drained enough bile to relieve cholestatic jaundice. His first operations from 1955 to 1961 had a jaundice-free survival rate of only 8 percent, but the cures were durable. By 1982–1986 survival reached 55 percent.Adoption of his procedure in the West came slowly. The original operation in 1955 was reported in the Japanese literature in 1959, but the first English language communication came in 1968. Surgeons disbelieved his results. Scientific chauvinism held that advances in pediatric surgery came from America and Europe; Japan had little to add.Surgeons visited Sendai to learn from Kasai, notably John Lilly and R. Peter Altman, then of Washington, DC, Jacques Valayer in Paris, and Edward Howard in London. At first, mortality rates in their hands was high. As expertise developed in the West with the technically demanding operation, mortality fell and approached those reported by Kasai. Successes in America, France, and England proved Kasai's operation as effective and one of signal achievements in pediatric surgery.

Eicosapentaenoic acid administration ameliorates the progression of liver fibrosis after laparoscopic Kasai portoenterostomy.

Biliary atresia (BA) poses a persistent challenge characterized by ongoing liver inflammation and subsequent fibrosis even after the clearance of jaundice (COJ). This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in alleviating liver inflammation and limiting fibrosis during the post-COJ phase of BA. Among the BA patients undergoing laparoscopic Kasai portoenterostomy (lapKP) between December 2016 and October 2021, EPA (20-40mg/kg/day) was administered orally to those whose parents consented. The study included patients from January 2014 to October 2021, classifying them into two groups: EPA-treated (Group E) and untreated (Group N). Their liver fibrosis and clinical course at 1 and 2years post-lapKP were compared. Group E consisted of 25 patients, while Group N comprised 32 patients. Twenty-one patients in Group E and 25 patients in Group N achieved COJ (p = 0.74). Among jaundice-free patients at 1 and 2years post-lapKP, Group E exhibited significantly lower M2BPGi levels and platelet counts, and Group E showed a significant reduction in Aminotransferase-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) at 2years post-lapKP. Although EPA administration did not improve COJ, it attenuated the progression of liver fibrosis during the 2years following lapKP in jaundice-free patients. (200/200Words).

Factors predicting the need for liver transplantation in biliary atresia patients after 18years of age.

We aimed to identify factors predicting the need for future liver transplantation (LT) at 18years of age in patients with biliary atresia (BA). BA patients with native liver survival at > 18years of age were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical characteristics, outcomes, hepatobiliary function, and liver fibrosis markers of native liver survivors (NLS group) were compared with patients who subsequently underwent LT (LT group). The study population included 48 patients (NLS, n = 34; LT, n = 14). The male-to-female ratio, age at Kasai procedure, and type of BA in the two groups did not differ to a statistically significant extent. There was no significant difference in the MELD scores between the groups at 18years of age. The aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI), albumin-bilirubin (ALBI), and BA liver fibrosis (BALF) scores at 18years of age were significantly higher in the LT group. The AUCs for APRI, ALBI, and BALF were 0.91, 0.79, and 0.85, respectively. Adult BA patients have limited options for LT owing to the lack of donor candidates and the low prevalence of deceased donors. The elucidation of prognostic factors for LT in adulthood is important. APRI was the most useful marker in this study.

Biliary atresia with rare associations: a case report and literature review

Introduction and Importance: Biliary atresia is a rare, progressive cholangiopathy that affects newborns, causing jaundice and other manifestations of hyperbilirubinemia. The incidence is higher in Asia than in Europe. The only available treatment is a surgical operation called Kasai portoenterostomy. In our case, we highlighted rare congenital anomalies that came with biliary atresia. Case Presentation: A 10-day-old male infant was admitted to the hospital due to recurrent vomiting, yellowish skin, and scleral icterus. Laboratory investigations revealed elevated total serum and direct bilirubin levels. An atrophic gallbladder was observed on ultrasound. Intrahepatic cholangiography confirmed the diagnosis of biliary atresia, leading to the performance of a Kasai procedure. Additionally, the patient had intestinal malrotation and volvulus, which were managed with a Ladd’s procedure. Following surgery, there was notable improvement in liver enzymes and bilirubin levels, and the patient was discharged after 7 days. The infant has been initiated on oral vitamins, ursodeoxycholic acid, and antibiotics. Clinical Discussion: Biliary atresia is a challenging condition characterized by progressive narrowing and fibrosis of the biliary tree. It is rarely associated with rare congenital anomalies like situs inversus totalis, intestinal malrotation, and volvulus. Diagnosis involves abdominal ultrasound and MRCG. The biliary atresia was managed by the kasai procedure and the intestinal malrotation, and volvulus were managed by Ladd’s procedure. Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance of considering rare associations such as situs inversus, intestinal malrotation and volvulus in the diagnosis of biliary atresia in newborn. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention are crucial for optimal outcomes.

Early predictors of successful kasai portoenterostomy

Early predictors of successful kasai portoenterostomy

Pediatric portal hypertensive enteropathy after Kasai surgery

BackgroundPortal hypertensive enteropathy (PHE) can cause chronic or acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Although there is a consensus on the diagnosis and treatment guidelines for PHE in adults, there are few reports on children. We aimed to report the clinical progress and outcomes of children with PHE treated with Kasai surgery and compare them with those of adults with PHE. MethodsIn total, 309 patients who underwent postoperative endoscopy were enrolled among 336 patients who underwent Kasai surgery for biliary atresia at Severance Children's Hospital between May 2005 and March 2022. ResultsThe PHE diagnosis rate was 15.2 % (n = 47). PHE was not diagnosed until 2012; however, the diagnosis rates significantly increased over time (13.3 % and 36.1 % between 2013 and 2017 and 2018–2022, respectively). Of the 47 patients diagnosed with PHE, 14 (29.8 %) had GI bleeding caused solely by PHE. None of the PHE patients required ICU care at the time of bleeding, compared to 32 (24.1 %) in the gastroesophageal varix (GEV) group. After initial management, the rates of re-bleeding, refractory bleeding, and mortality were 78.6 %, 28.6 %, and 0.0 %, respectively, in the PHE group. ConclusionsPediatric PHE diagnosis rates after Kasai surgery have increased since clinicians have become aware of the existence of the disease. Pediatric PHE has a high re-bleeding rate (78.6 %), although fatal GI bleeding is rare compared to GEV. Diagnosis and treatment of pediatric PHE can be performed according to adult guidelines. Level of evidenceIII.

Comparison of Da Vinci Robotic-assisted With Open Kasai Portoenterostomy for Biliary Atresia

BackgroundRobotic-assisted Kasai portoenterostomy (RAKPE) has been used to treat biliary atresia (BA). This study aimed to compare the efficacy of RAKPE and open Kasai portoenterostomy (OKPE) for BA. MethodsThirty-one children with type III BA who underwent surgical treatment in two centers from January 2022 to December 2023 were retrospectively collected. According to the operative techniques, the participants were divided into the RAKPE group (13 cases) and the OKPE group (18 cases). The operative time, jaundice clearance (JC) rate, and incidence of cholangitis were analyzed. ResultsThe operative time in the RAKPE group (204.3 ± 19.9 min) was significantly longer than that in the OKPE group (186.2 ± 22.2 min), P < 0.05. However, the blood loss (8.1 ± 2.5 ml) in the RAKPE group was significantly decreased compared with the OKPE group (13.6 ± 4.8 ml), and 15.4% patient need blood transfusion in RAKEP group was litter than that 55.6% in the OKPE group, P < 0.05. The time to oral feeding (2.8 ± 0.4 days vs. 4.3 ± 0.7 days) and the time to pass ICG-positive stools (3.6 ± 0.6 days vs. 4.7 ± 0.9 days) in the RAKPE group were significantly shorter than those in the OKPE group, P < 0.05. No significant differences were observed in the bile excretion rate, hospital stay time, and JC rate. The incidence of cholangitis in the RAKPE group was significantly lower than that in the OKPE group during short follow-up. ConclusionRAKPE may be associated with lower intraoperative blood loss, decrease need for postoperative transfusions and decreased rate of postoperative cholangitis compared to OKPE. Level of evidenceIII

Factors Associated with Survival Rate in Biliary Atresia Patients Following Kasai Surgery

Introduction: Biliary atresia is the most frequent cause of obstructive jaundice leading to liver fibrosis, end-stage liver disease, and death. Kasai surgery offers a bridge to attenuate liver fibrosis progression through reconstruction of the biliary system. The success of the Kasai procedure depends on the presence of jaundice, age at the time of surgery, clay-colored stool, and bilirubin counts. Aim: This study aimed to investigate and predict the death incidence of Biliary atresia patients following Kasai Surgery in our institution. Method: We conducted a case-control study from March 2020 to January 2022 at Kariadi General Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia. We collected data related to gender, age at surgery, albumin level pre and post-surgery, total and direct bilirubin before and after surgery, and the presence of ascites. Bivariate analysis using the Chi-Square test with OR (95% CI) was performed to analyze the risk factors in BA patients following the Kasai procedure. Results: 19 patients with biliary atresia underwent the Kasai procedure with a survival rate of 68.4%. Bilirubin levels ≥10 mg/dL before (p=0.033, OR 11.25) and after (p=0.025, OR 11.00) the Kasai procedure, and the presence of ascites (p=0.005) were significant factors associated with mortality cases. However, a combined multivariate analysis of these factors did not show any significant relationship with outcomes. Conclusion: Bilirubin exceeding 10 mg/dL before and after the Kasai procedure and the presence of Ascites was a marker for poor outcomes for biliary atresia patients following the Kasai procedure

Cholestasis after Kasai operation predicts portal hypertension in native liver survivors of biliary atresia: a multicenter study.

This study evaluated portal hypertension (PHT) and its predictors among native liver survivors (NLS) of biliary atresia (BA) after Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE). This was a multicenter study using prospectively collected data. The subjects were patients who remained transplant-free for 5years after KPE. Their status of PHT was evaluated and variables that predicted PHT were determined by regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Six centers from East Asia participated in this study and 320 subjects with KPE between 1980 to 2018 were analyzed. The mean follow-up period was 10.6 ± 6.2years. At the 5th year after KPE, PHT was found in 37.8% of the subjects (n = 121). Patients with KPE done before day 41 of life had the lowest percentage of PHT compared to operation at older age. At 12months after KPE, PHT + ve subjects had a higher bilirubin level (27.1 ± 11.7 vs 12.3 ± 7.9µmol/L, p = 0.000) and persistent jaundice conferred a higher risk for PHT (OR = 12.9 [9.2-15.4], p = 0.000). ROC analysis demonstrated that a bilirubin level above 38µmol/L at 12months after KPE predicted PHT development (sensitivity: 78%, specificity: 60%, AUROC: 0.75). In BA, early KPE protects against the development of PHT among NLSs. Patients with persistent cholestasis at one year after KPE are at a higher risk of this complication. They should receive a more vigilant follow-up. Level III.

Biliary atresia.

Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive inflammatory fibrosclerosing disease of the biliary system and a major cause of neonatal cholestasis. It affects 1:5,000-20,000 live births, with the highest incidence in Asia. The pathogenesis is still unknown, but emerging research suggests a role for ciliary dysfunction, redox stress and hypoxia. The study of the underlying mechanisms can be conceptualized along the likely prenatal timing of an initial insult and the distinction between the injury and prenatal and postnatal responses to injury. Although still speculative, these emerging concepts, new diagnostic tools and early diagnosis might enable neoadjuvant therapy (possibly aimed at oxidative stress) before a Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE). This is particularly important, as timely KPE restores bile flow in only 50-75% of patients of whom many subsequently develop cholangitis, portal hypertension and progressive fibrosis; 60-75% of patients require liver transplantation by the age of 18 years. Early diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, centralization of surgery and optimized interventions for complications after KPE lead to better survival. Postoperative corticosteroid use has shown benefits, whereas the role of other adjuvant therapies remains to be evaluated. Continued research to better understand disease mechanisms is necessary to develop innovative treatments, including adjuvant therapies targeting the immune response, regenerative medicine approaches and new clinical tests to improve patient outcomes.

Erector spinae plane block with ropivacaine 0.2% in children: a single-centre case series in a tertiary paediatric centre in Malaysia

Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) was first described in 2016 by Forero et al. as a modified interfascial plane block used for patients with chronic neuropathic thoracic pain. It was applied in the paediatric population for postoperative pain management as early as 2017. Most evidence on the efficacy of ESPB as postoperative analgesia in the literature is mainly found in case reports, but very few trials had been conducted. This case series describes 4 paediatric patients who received ESPB as part of multimodal analgesia while undergoing different types of surgery,i.e., 1 Kasai procedure, 1 closure of stoma, and 2 thoracotomies. All 4 patients had general anaesthesia for the surgery. No complications were observed in relation to the regional anaesthetic technique. Pain control was achieved with a pain score of 0–2 for 3 patients and 2–4 for 1 patient (thoracotomy) on Day 1 postoperatively, while all of them a had pain score of 0–2 on postoperative Day 2. We found ESPB with ropivacaine 0.2% to be a safe and effective analgesia as part of multimodal management of postoperative surgical pain. Further studies are needed to validate this observation.

The Outcomes and Success Rates of Kasai Operation for Biliary Atresia Cases Using Presurgical Hepatobiliary Scan: Observations at NINMAS

The Outcomes and Success Rates of Kasai Operation for Biliary Atresia Cases Using Presurgical Hepatobiliary Scan: Observations at NINMAS