Splenic Vein Occlusion Research Articles

Left-sided portal hypertension caused by a solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of pancreas tail: a pediatric case report

BackgroundSolid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) is a low-grade malignant tumor that occurs in 60% of all pediatric pancreas tumors. Radical tumor resection is essential; however, spleen preservation is also crucial to prevent overwhelming post-splenectomy infection. In contrast, spleen preservation is not always possible, because left-sided portal hypertension (LSPH) can cause splenic vein stenosis or occlusion induced by pancreatic tumor. We herein report on a pediatric patient of LSPH due to SPN in the pancreatic tail.Case presentationA 12-year-old girl was admitted to our hospital with left upper quadrant abdominal pain. A solid mass was palpated in the left costal region. The patient showed slight anemia (Hb: 11.8 g/dL) and elevation of inflammatory reaction (CRP: 5.98 mg/dL) without positive tumor markers. A radiological examination revealed that a 9 cm-sized mass with hemorrhagic necrosis in the pancreatic tail. Splenic venous flow was not detected and collateral draining into the left gastric vein and left renal veins were developed with splenomegaly. LSPH was involved at the time of diagnosis. The tumor was diagnosed with SPN, hence tumor resection with spleen preservation was performed. Six months after surgery, the patient developed a left quadrant abdominal pain that worsened during exercise. There was no improvement of splenic venous flow and splenomegaly. LSPH remained with splenomegaly, which possibly triggered the patient’s abdominal pain. The patient underwent splenectomy 9 months after the tumor resection. After the splenectomy, the patient’s abdominal pain disappeared without any recurrence 8-year post-surgery.ConclusionsLSPH has not been a major focus in previous SPN pediatric patients, although most symptomatic LSPH patients required splenectomy. Careful post-operative observation for LSPH is important for pediatric SPN patients.

Interventional Management of Variceal Bleeding: Techniques and Emerging Concepts

AbstractDespite technical advancements and disease understanding, variceal bleeding remains the leading cause of mortality in patients with cirrhosis. Endoscopic therapies are the main cornerstone of therapy in variceal bleeding. Interventional radiology (IR) plays a significant role in managing variceal bleeding, especially in cases where endoscopic therapies are not feasible or failed. Cross-sectional imaging is often critical to identify relevant anatomy before IR therapies. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is indicated as salvage therapy in patients with refractory variceal bleeding. Retrograde transvenous variceal embolization (RTO) procedures provide superior bleeding control in patients with gastric and ectopic varices, however, without increasing the risk of hepatic encephalopathy and liver function deterioration. Antegrade transvenous obliteration is a viable alternative when RTO is not feasible. Left-sided portal hypertension is a distinct entity resulting from splenic vein stenosis or occlusion, and variceal bleeding in left-sided portal hypertension does not respond to TIPS, requiring variceal embolization, partial splenic embolization, or splenic vein recanalization. Occasionally, endovascular splenorenal or mesorenal shunt and splenic vein occlusion with distal splenorenal diversion are performed to control variceal bleeding. This article entails the basic concepts and procedural aspects of various interventional radiological procedures performed in patients with variceal bleeding.

Inadvertent iatrogenic splenic vein occlusion resulting in sinistral portal hypertension and massive gastric variceal hemorrhage

Inadvertent iatrogenic splenic vein occlusion resulting in sinistral portal hypertension and massive gastric variceal hemorrhage

Patterns of venous collateral development after splenic vein occlusion associated with surgical and oncological outcomes after distal pancreatectomy.

Splenic vein occlusion (SpVO) due to a pancreatic tumor may result in the development of collateral circulation and left-sided portal hypertension. This study aimed to investigate the impact of SpVO on distal pancreatectomy (DP) and provide insights about the management of such cases. This retrospective analysis included 124 patients who underwent DP from 2014 to 2022. A subgroup analysis was performed on 88 patients who underwent DP for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). SpVO was found in 26 (20.8%) patients. The patients with SpVO had significantly larger splenic volumes and lower platelet counts. Compared to the patients with patent splenic veins (SpVs), the patients with SpVO underwent significantly longer operations (p = 0.006), with a higher incidence of postoperative complications (p = 0.002). We classified the collateral routes associated with SpVO into five patterns. The most common pattern was the left gastroepiploic vein type, which was associated with a tumor of the pancreatic body. In patients with PDAC, SpVO was associated with larger tumors, microscopic vascular permeation, and peritoneal recurrence. However, the differences between overall and recurrence-free survival rates in the patients with SpVO vs those with patent SpVs were not significant. SpVO causes left-sided portal hypertension, which can be a risk for perioperative complications in DP. Operative planning based on the classification of collateral flow patterns may help prevent intraoperative congestion and perioperative complications.

Portal Vein Recanalization–Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (PVR-TIPS) with superior mesenteric vein access and balloon-assisted shunt placement

BackgroundTo report the technique and outcome of ultrasound-guided percutaneous access to the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) for balloon-assisted portal vein recanalization–transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (PVR-TIPS) in a patient with chronic portal venous and splenic vein occlusion.Case presentationA 51-year-old, non-cirrhotic patient with severe portal hypertension was admitted for PVR-TIPS. Neither splenic nor hepatic access was feasible due to chronic portal and splenic vein occlusion. Percutaneous ultrasound-guided direct puncture of the SMV was performed to obtain access for balloon-assisted PVR-TIPS. The transmesenteric approach in combination with a balloon puncture technique for PVR-TIPS was successful, and no immediate complications were observed post-procedure. The subsequent follow-up exams showed patent TIPS and SMV without signs of intraabdominal hemorrhage.ConclusionPercutaneous ultrasound-guided superior mesenteric vein access for balloon-assisted PVR-TIPS is a feasible option in cases where hepatic or splenic access is not.

S678 Treatment of Cardiofundal Gastric Varices From Splenic Vein Occlusion: A Different Phenotype and Framework for Treatment?

Introduction: Cardiofundal gastric varices can result from left-sided portal hypertension due to isolated splenic vein occlusion, either from intraluminal thrombosis or extrinsic compression of the splenic vein. These patients often do not have systemic portal hypertension or cirrhosis. Treatment of non-cirrhosis related cardiofundal varices can be challenging, as conventional gastric variceal therapies such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or balloon occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) are ineffective for left sided portal hypertension. We aimed to describe our center’s experience and approach in treatment of cardiofundal varices in the setting of isolated splenic vein occlusion. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients who presented with concern for bleeding from cardiofundal varices at two tertiary hospitals was performed from Jan 2018 to May 2022. Patients were included if they received treatment for cardiofundal varices from isolated splenic vein occlusion, and excluded if they had been previously diagnosed with cirrhosis or portal vein thrombosis. Results: We found a total of 8 patients who met the study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria. 7/8 (87.5%) were male and the mean age was 58. Etiology of splenic vein occlusion included pancreatic adenocarcinoma (n=4), necrotizing pancreatitis (n=2), and carcinoid/neuroendocrine tumors (n=2); see Table. Maximum variceal cross section diameter ranged from 4-10mm, and were often small in size and diffuse. All patients underwent initial endoscopic therapy, which included EUS guided coil embolization (n=6) and rubber band ligation (n=3), with 1 patient receiving both. Coil embolization was performed as standalone (n=1), with Gelfoam (n=4), or with cyanoacrylate glue (n=1). Technical success and ability to achieve hemostasis on index procedure were both 100%. 4 patients required re-intervention, with 2 refractory to endoscopic therapy requiring splenic artery embolization and splenectomy. Conclusion: Coil embolization and/or band ligation can be effective initial endoscopic therapies for non cirrhotic cardiofundal variceal bleeding. Cardiofundal varices from splenic vein occlusion on EUS often appear much smaller in size as compared to those from cirrhosis, which may preclude coil embolization – in these cases, band ligation may be a more preferable option. For patients who fail initial endoscopic therapy and require significant transfusions, splenic artery embolization and splenectomy can be considered. Table 1. - Individual patient description on etiology of splenic vein thrombosis, treatment on index procedure, and follow up Case Etiology of Splenic Vein Thrombosis Maximum variceal cross section diameter (mm) Treatment on Index Procedure Follow up 1 Pancreatic adenocarcinoma 5 Coil embolization + Gelfoam Repeat EGD with deflation of IGV1 2 Pancreatic adenocarcinoma 4 Band ligation Repeat EGD pending 3 Metastatic carcinoid tumor 5 Coil embolization One additional EUS guided coil embolization in 2 weeks due to bleeding. Bleeding persisted, so referred to IR. BRTO attempted but no shunt, so ultimately underwent splenectomy. 4 Necrotizing pancreatitis 4.5 Coil embolization + Gelfoam No recurrent bleeding 5 Pancreatic adenocarcinoma 4 Band ligation Two additional endoscopic sessions performed for bleeding, first with coil embolization + Gelfoam, second with repeat banding (all within 2-3 months). 6 Pancreatic adenocarcinoma 10 Coil embolization + cyanoacrylate glue Presented with rebleeding from IGV1 within 3 months, received Hemospray followed by splenic artery embolization. 7 Necrotizing pancreatitis 4 Coil embolization + Gelfoam Repeat intervention in 3 weeks with coil embolization + Gelfoam + banding. No recurrent bleeding, IGV1 improved. 8 Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor 8 Coil embolization + Gelfoam + band ligation Repeat intervention in 2 months with repeat coil embolization + Gelfoam + banding.

S2597 Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage From Hepaticojejunal Varices: A Rare Complication of Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Introduction: Ectopic varices are portosystemic collaterals that form outside the esophageal-gastric region and frequently pose a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Rarely, bleeding from ectopic varices can occur as a complication of pancreatic surgery. We describe a case of gastrointestinal bleeding from ectopic hepaticojejunal varices after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Case Description/Methods: A 66-year-old man with a history of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (PMN) with high-grade dysplasia status post Whipple procedure two years previously, presented to the hospital with melena. His Whipple procedure had been complicated by splenic vein thrombosis and disease recurrence, necessitating further debridement three months prior to presentation. On examination, his vital signs were stable and there were no stigmata of liver disease. His laboratory tests were notable for a hemoglobin 8.0 g/dL (from baseline of 11 g/dL), platelets 174 × 109/L, BUN 29 mg/dL, INR 1.0. He initially underwent EGD and colonoscopy, which were unremarkable. A second look endoscopy was performed and deep intubation of the afferent limb revealed ectopic varices with stigmata of recent bleeding at the hepaticojejunostomy (Panel A). Cross-sectional imaging demonstrated a patent splenic vein but chronic occlusion of the portal and proximal superior mesenteric veins with cavernous transformation, extensive upper abdominal varices and splenomegaly (Panel B). There was no clinical or radiologic evidence of cirrhosis. After multidisciplinary discussion, an endovascular approach was deemed technically infeasible given extensive chronic mesenteric thrombus and a surgical approach was deemed prohibitively high-risk. The patient ultimately underwent endoscopic injection of 2-octyl cyanoacrylate into the ectopic varices and has remained without recurrent bleeding in over 5 months of follow-up. Discussion: Hemorrhage from ectopic jejunal varices following pancreatic surgery has previously been described in only a few case reports. Given the potential for vascular injury and local inflammation, these procedures can result in mesenteric venous thrombosis with subsequent ectopic variceal formation. If present, defining the vascular supply of varices with early multi-disciplinary involvement is paramount to their management. Multiple treatments have been reported, including portal venous stenting, embolization, and local sclerotherapy or cyanoacrylate injection as in this case.Figure 1.: (A) Ectopic varices (yellow arrows) are noted in the afferent limb at the hepaticojejunostomy. (B) Coronal view of computed tomography scan of abdomen demonstrating large upper abdominal collaterals (red arrow) that drain close to the afferent limb (white arrow).

Hematemesis From Varices in a 14-year-old Without Hepatobiliary Disease: A "Wandering" Diagnosis.

Hematemesis From Varices in a 14-year-old Without Hepatobiliary Disease: A "Wandering" Diagnosis.

S1521 Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasm: Case Report of a Rare Pancreatic Tumor

Introduction: Solid pseudo-papillary neoplasm (SPN) is a rare low-grade malignant cystic exocrine neoplasm of the pancreas with a distinctive pathologic architecture. It is usually diagnosed incidentally, and complete resection is mainly curative with excellent long-term prognosis despite a small malignant potential. Case Description/Methods: A 28 yo female with history of lumbar disc herniation and subsequent micro-discectomy, presented to the emergency department with a 1-day history of severe left upper quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. She denied any other symptom or previous trauma. On physical examination, the abdomen was soft with mild tenderness in LUQ, and no rebound or palpable mass. Lab evaluation showed a mild leukocytosis (16.5K), but otherwise liver tests and pancreatic enzymes were within normal limits. CT scan showed an obstructing ureteral calculus and a large 7.1 cm incidental mass in the pancreatic tail with chronic splenic vein occlusion. MRCP later confirmed a 6.8 x 7.5 x 7.7 cm heterogeneous but well defined/encapsulated arising from the pancreatic tail/distal body. The lesion had heterogeneous enhancement, diffusion restriction, and areas of T1 hyperintensity. The patient successfully underwent a laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy and was discharged home after 3 days. Pathology confirmed the suspected diagnosis of SPN of the pancreas with samples negative for foci of malignancy. Immuno-histochemical stains revealed tumor cells to be positive for beta-catenin, cyclin D1, CD10 and synaptophysin, while negative for chromogranin. Discussion: SPN is considered a low-grade malignant pancreatic tumor according to the WHO Classification of Digestive System Tumors, with reported malignant transformation of around 15-16%. Despite this, SPN still has a generally excellent long-term prognosis. SPNs have a characteristic appearance on cross-sectional imaging, appearing as a mixed solid and cystic pancreatic lesion, however cytologic analysis is usually done for confirmation of the diagnosis. The use of pre-operative biopsy or EUS-FNA has been controversial and is felt to be of limited benefit. In our patient, the post-operative cytologic diagnosis after surgery proved valuable for establishing the diagnosis with no need for pre-operative EUS-FNA. Treatment usually is surgical resection, which is curative; appropriate clinical follow-up is warranted due to risk of local recurrence. There is no clear role for systemic chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, or radiotherapy.Figure 1.: A. MRI abdomen and pelvis with contrast T2 Coronal showing a heterogenous well defined and encapsulated partially exophytic mass arising from the pancreatic tail/distal body. B. Axial LAVA (3D T1 weighted sequence with Fat Suppression) pre-contrast. C. LAVA post-contrast Figure 2-D. Solid sheet of uniform tumor cells showing focal loosely cohesive pseudopapillary architecture (Hematoxylin & Eosin, x 100). E. Nuclear and cytoplasmic immunoreactivity for B-catenin (B-catenin immunohistochemical stain, x 200).

Torsion of spleen and portal hypertension: Pathophysiology and clinical implications.

The displacement of spleen from its normal location to other places is known as wandering spleen (WS) and is a rare disease. The repeated torsion of WS is due to the presence of long pedicle and absence/laxity of anchoring ligaments. A WS is an extremely rare cause of left-sided portal hypertension (PHT) and severe gastric variceal bleeding. Left-sided PHT usually occurs as a result of splenic vein occlusion caused by splenic torsion, extrinsic compression of the splenic pedicle by enlarged spleen, and splenic vein thrombosis. There is a paucity of data on WS-related PHT, and these data are mostly in the form of case reports. In this review, we have analyzed the data of 20 reported cases of WS-related PHT. The mechanisms of pathogenesis, clinico-demographic profile, and clinical implications are described in this article. The majority of patients were diagnosed in the second to third decade of life (mean age: 26 years), with a strong female preponderance (M:F = 1:9). Eleven of the 20 WS patients with left-sided PHT presented with abdominal pain and mass. In 6 of the 11 patients, varices were detected incidentally on preoperative imaging studies or discovered intraoperatively. Therefore, pre-operative search for varices is required in patients with splenic torsion.

Splenic Artery Embolisation for the Emergency Treatment of Sinistral Portal Hypertension: A Systematic Review

Abstract Objectives Sinistral portal hypertension (SPH) is caused by increased pressure on the left portal system secondary to splenic vein stenosis or occlusion and may lead to gastric varices. The definitive management of SPH is splenectomy, but this is associated with significant mortality and morbidity in the acute setting. In this systematic review, we investigated the efficacy and safety of splenic artery embolisation (SAE) in managing refractory variceal bleeding in patients with SPH. Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE and Embase databases. A qualitative analysis was chosen due to heterogeneity of the studies. Results Our search yielded 339 articles, 278 of which were unique. After initial screening, 16 articles relevant to our search remained for full text review. Of these, 7 were included in the systematic review. All 7 papers were observational, 6 were retrospective. Between them they described 29 SAE procedures to control variceal bleeding. The technical success rate was 100% and there were no cases of rebleeding during follow up. The most common complication was post-embolisation syndrome. Four major complications occurred, two resulting in death. These deaths were the only 30-day mortalities recorded and were in patients with extensive comorbidities. Conclusions Although there is a distinct lack of randomized controlled studies comparing SAE to other treatment modalities, it appears to be safe and effective in treating hemorrhage secondary to SPH.

Short- and long-term outcomes after minimally invasive versus open spleen-saving distal pancreatectomies.

Introduction:This study aimed to compare the perioperative outcomes of patients who underwent minimally invasive spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (MI-SPDP) versus open surgery SPDP (O-SPDP). It also aimed to determine the long-term vascular patency after spleen-saving vessel-preserving distal pancreatectomies (SSVDPs).Methods:A retrospective review of 74 patients who underwent successful SPDP and met the study criteria was performed. Of these, 67 (90.5%) patients underwent SSVDP, of which 38 patients (21 open, 17 MIS) had adequate long-term post-operative follow-up imaging to determine vascular patency.Results:Fifty-one patients underwent open SPDP, whereas 23 patients underwent minimally invasive SPDP, out of which 10 (43.5%) were laparoscopic and 13 (56.5%) were robotic. Patients who underwent MI-SPDP had significantly longer operative time (307.5 vs. 162.5 min, P = 0.001) but shorter hospital stay (5 vs. 7 days, P = 0.021) and lower median blood loss (100 vs. 200 cc, P = 0.046) compared to that of O-SPDP. Minimally-invasive spleen-saving vessel-preserving distal pancreatectomy (MI-SSVDP) was associated with poorer long-term splenic vein patency rates compared to O-SSVDP (P = 0.048). This was particularly with respect to partial occlusion of the splenic vein, and there was no significant difference between the complete splenic vein occlusion rates between the MIS group and open group (29.4% vs. 28.6%, P = 0.954). The operative time was statistically significantly longer in patients who underwent robotic surgery versus laparoscopic surgery (330 vs. 173 min, P = 0.008).Conclusion:Adoption of MI-spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) is safe and feasible. MI-SPDP is associated with a shorter hospital stay, lower blood loss but longer operation time compared to O-SPDP. In the present study, MI-SSVDP was associated with poorer long-term splenic vein patency rates compared to O-SSVDP.

Multifocal pancreatobiliary malignancies: A diagnostic and therapeutic challenge

The synchronous presentation of multifocal pancreatobiliary tumors is a rare occurrence and can prove to be a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. We describe the case of a 70-year-old female who presented with a 2-week history of jaundice, reduced appetite, and mild epigastric discomfort of insidious onset. Radiological evaluation with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated features consistent with a hilar cholangiocarcinoma , also known as a Klatskin tumor, involving both the cystic duct and gallbladder neck. In addition to this, a pancreatic neoplasm with associated splenic vein occlusion and metastatic deposits in the liver and lung were identified. The patient was managed with percutaneous transhepatic external biliary drainage and stenting by interventional radiology. Cytology results from the brushings obtained from the aforementioned procedure were nondiagnostic. Core biopsies were performed of the pancreatic lesion; the histopathological results of which were in keeping with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma . The patient was scheduled for chemotherapy however unfortunately deteriorated clinically prior to commencement. This case highlights the diagnostic and management challenges of synchronous pancreatobiliary malignancies.

CT angiography identifies collaterals in dogs with splenic vein obstruction and presumed regional splenic vein hypertension

Occlusion of the splenic vein, without occlusion of the portal vein, can lead to a localized, regional splenic hypertension, referred as sinistral or left-sided portal hypertension in the human radiology literature. In people, may cause gastrointestinal hemorrhages from the esophageal and gastric varices and the primary pathology usually includes pancreatitis and pancreatic neoplasms. The final diagnosis of localized splenic hypertension necessitates accompanying normal liver functions and a patent extrahepatic portal vein. Following obstruction, the resultant elevated splenic bed venous pressure causes formation of collateral routes, the extent of which depends upon the level and degree of obstruction. In this retrospective descriptive study, authors assessed the collateral pathways in dogs with isolated splenic vein occlusion and possible regional splenic vein hypertension. Out of the 46 patients initially recruited, 25 were excluded due to the presence of concomitant portal thrombosis and direct/indirect CT signs of portal hypertension. The remaining 21 dogs had clinicopathological tests suggesting normal liver function. The causes of obstruction identified included splenic pedicle torsion, tumoral splenic vein invasion, and splenic vein thrombosis. Four of 21 dogs with isolated splenic vein obstruction showed collateral pathways through the left gastroepiploic vein (4/4), left gastric vein (2/4), and splenogonadal vein (1/4). The diagnosis of isolated, regional splenic hypertension should be based on clinical, biochemical, and radiological evaluation. Computed tomography is an excellent tool to assess the collateral patterns and to determine the underlying cause.

3033 Acute Pancreatitis Complicated by Pancreatic Pseudocyst and Splenic Hematoma, Management Considerations

INTRODUCTION: Pancreatic duct disruption is a known complication of pancreatitis which leads to the formation of pancreatic pseudocysts, pancreatic ascites, and high amylase pleural effusions. Pancreatic pseudocysts migrate along with the pancreatic tissue and rupture either into surrounding organs or into the free peritoneal cavity. Splenic complications of pancreatitis are rare and include splenic vein thrombosis, splenic artery rupture, splenic rupture or infarction, and splenic hematoma. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: 39 y/o alcoholic male admitted for acute pancreatitis. Imaging revealed pseudocysts and ascites. Initially, he improved with supportive care but abdominal pain recurred owing to splenic rupture with resultant splenic hematoma. Splenic artery coiling was employed to stop bleeding. He returned for recurrent abdominal pain and new chest pain with interval increase in size of pseudocyst and interval development of pleural effusion. EUS revealed a multiloculated pancreatic pseudocyst, as well as pancreatic duct disruption. Transgastric drainage of the pseudocyst was performed with an Axios stent. Repeat endoscopy at interval showed complete resolution of the cyst. DISCUSSION: Studies estimate the incidence of pancreatic pseudocyst rupture into the spleen at a rate of up to 1.1% of patients with acute pancreatitis. Another study of patients with chronic pancreatitis reports splenic pseudocyst as the most common lesion, followed by splenic rupture and hematoma. A more recent study of 500 men with chronic alcoholic pancreatitis found that only 2.2% develop splenic complications with intrasplenic pseudocyst being the most common lesion, followed by splenic rupture and subcapsular hematoma. Findings associated with the highest risk of developing splenic complications included pancreatic tail necrosis, distal pseudocyst, or splenic vein occlusion. Previously, the mainstay of treatment for splenic hematoma was splenectomy with distal pancreatectomy. However, with the advent of advanced endoscopic procedures, patients are safely managed with splenic artery embolizationand EUS guided pancreaticogastrostomy or percutaneous drainage. Endoscopic drainage and percutaneous drainage of symptomatic pseudocysts are preferred to surgical management. Furthermore, recent reviews show that endoscopic drainage is superior to percutaneous drainage with lower rates of reintervention, shorter hospital stays, and need for less follow-up imaging.

1414 Prognosis and Management of Rare Pancreatic Tumors: A Case Series to Highlight the Importance of Accurate Pathologic Diagnosis in Pancreatic Malignancy

INTRODUCTION: Most pancreatic tumors are adenocarcinomas. Less than 6% of all pancreatic cancers are anaplastic (undifferentiated, ACP). ACPs with osteoclast-like giant cells (OGC) occur in less than 1% of all tumors and are classified separately from other subtypes of ACP by the WHO. Here we present 2 rare & unusual histologic subtypes of pancreatic cancer, both diagnosed by EUS-FNA/FNB, with varying prognosis & management. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: Case 1: An 81-year-old male presented with indigestion and 10-pound unintentional weight loss. Abdominal CT scan showed a 6.6 cm pancreatic body-tail mass with splenic artery encasement and splenic vein occlusion. EUS confirmed the lesion with internal necrotic/cystic areas and celiac trunk involvement. FNA was performed with a 22-gauge needle; cytology confirmed undifferentiated carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells (OGC) (Figure 1). PET/CT revealed a hypermetabolic pancreatic lesion (SUV 21) and a 1.5 cm right hepatic dome lesion (SUV 10.2). He was deemed not a surgical candidate and was treated with palliative chemotherapy (gemcitabine). Restaging CT scan showed marked tumor progression with a 17 cm pancreatic tumor and a 4 cm liver tumor. He entered hospice less than three months after diagnosis. Case 2: A 74-year-old male presented with abdominal pain and weight loss. Laboratory evaluation revealed total bilirubin of 1.00 mg/dL, AST 40 U/L, ALT 87 U/L, and alkaline phosphatase 138 U/L. CT scan showed a pancreatic head mass measuring 4.3 cm abutting the portal vein. Tumor markers were normal. EUS revealed a 4.5 cm pancreatic head lesion with portal vein invasion and double duct sign. FNB was performed with 22-gauge needle; histology revealed anaplastic giant cell carcinoma (ACP) (Figure 2). After multidisciplinary discussion, pancreaticoduodenectomy was recommended. Intraoperatively, he was found to have unresectable locally advanced tumor. Palliative chemotherapy was started. DISCUSSION: OGCs & ACPs are rare histological subtypes of pancreatic cancer with aggressive clinical behavior. In both our patients, there was evidence of vascular and/or intraductal invasion by tumor at diagnosis. Data suggests OGCs may have a better prognosis than ACPs and ductal adenocarcinomas. Pancreas cancer multidisciplinary teams should be aware of these rare tumor subtypes and the treatment and prognostic implications thereof.

Endoscopic injection sclerotherapy for pediatric bleeding esophageal varices complicated by gastric vein, main portal vein, splenic mesenteric junction, and splenic vein occlusion: a case report

BackgroundEndoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EIS) is a life-saving procedure for pediatric patients with bleeding gastric varices (GV) associated with advanced liver cirrhosis and severe portal hypertension. Because of the lack of an endoscopic banding ligation device for pediatric patients, EIS is usually performed for bleeding esophageal varices (EV) in infants with congenital biliary atresia.Case presentationWe present a case of a 15-month-old female infant with type I biliary atresia with jaundice (total serum bilirubin, 22.2 mg/dL), hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin level, 2.58 g/dL), coagulopathy (prothrombin time > 20 s compared with that of a normal control), ascites, splenomegaly, portal hypertension (portal vein velocity, 3.9–5.6 cm/sec of hepatopetal flow), and repeated bleeding of the varices after receiving three doses of intravascularly administered Histoacryl 1 ampoule mixed with Lipiodol UF 8 mL in the EV. Prominent GV and EV were occluded by EIS. The sclerosing agent was also present in the main portal vein, splenic mesenteric junction, and splenic vein, causing an engorged inferior mesenteric vein. The patient underwent total hepatectomy and living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) by left lateral segment graft (segments 2, 3, and 4 of the middle hepatic vein trunk) and left portal vein graft to the recipient inferior mesenteric vein anastomosis. Portal vein stent placement via segment 4 of the portal vein stump was performed from the inferior mesenteric vein to the umbilical portion of the left portal vein. The patient is still alive and doing well after the LDLT.ConclusionsEIS is a life-saving procedure in cases involving bleeding EV complicated by gastric, main portal vein, splenic mesenteric junction, and splenic vein occlusions; hence, it should be kept in mind as a treatment for EV complications in pediatric patients.

Laparoscopic multivisceral distal pancreatectomy

Background: Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) with multivisceral resection can be a challenging procedure. Methods: This is the case of a 79 years old lady who presented with a 35 mm part cystic pancreatic tail mass with evidence of splenic vein occlusion and pancreatic tail atrophy, in keeping with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. A LDP and splenectomy was planned, however the intraoperative findings were of a mass in the body of pancreas invading into transverse mesocolon and posterior wall of the stomach. Results: A LDP with an en bloc wedge resection of the stomach and partial excision of the transverse mesocolon was performed. The operative time was 180 minutes, with 300 ml blood loss. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 3 with the drain in situ, which was removed 7 days after the operation in clinic. Histopathology showed well differentiated ductal adenocarcinoma pT3N0R0. We also present our results in 15 similar cases showing good short and long term outcomes. Conclusion: Laparoscopic multivisceral distal pancreatectomy is feasible and safe in expert hands even for oncological resections.

Laparoscopic multivisceral distal pancreatectomy

Background: Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) with multivisceral resection can be a challenging procedure. Methods: This is the case of a 79 years old lady who presented with a 35 mm part cystic pancreatic tail mass with evidence of splenic vein occlusion and pancreatic tail atrophy, in keeping with pancreatic adenocarcinoma. A LDP and splenectomy was planned, however the intraoperative findings were of a mass in the body of pancreas invading into transverse mesocolon and posterior wall of the stomach. Results: A LDP with an en bloc wedge resection of the stomach and partial excision of the transverse mesocolon was performed. The operative time was 180 minutes, with 300 ml blood loss. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 3 with the drain in situ, which was removed 7 days after the operation in clinic. Histopathology showed well differentiated ductal adenocarcinoma pT3N0R0. We also present our results in 15 similar cases showing good short and long term outcomes. Conclusion: Laparoscopic multivisceral distal pancreatectomy is feasible and safe in expert hands even for oncological resections.

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging features of regional portal hypertension

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging features of regional portal hypertension