Utilizing ultra-small volume graft in auxiliary liver transplantation for portal hypertension / 中华外科杂志

Objective: To examine the clinical effect of auxiliary liver transplantation with ultra-small volume graft in the treatment of portal hypertension. Methods: Twelve cases of portal hypertension treated by auxiliary liver transplantation with small volume graft at Liver Transplantation Center,Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University between December 2014 and March 2022 were studied retrospectively. There were 8 males and 4 females,aged 14 to 66 years. Model for end-stage liver disease scores were 1 to 15 points and Child scores were 6 to 11 points. The grafts was derived from living donors in 9 cases,from split cadaveric donors in 2 cases,from whole cadaveric liver of child in 1 case. The graft recipient body weight ratios of 3 cadaveric donor livers were 0.79% to 0.90%, and of 9 living donor livers were 0.31% to 0.55%.In these cases, ultra-small volume grafts were implanted. The survivals of patient and graft, complications, portal vein blood flow of residual liver and graft, abdominal drainage and biochemical indexes of liver function were observed. Results: All the grafts and patients survived. Complications included outflow tract torsion in 2 cases, acute rejection in 1 case, bile leakage in 1 case, and thyroid cancer at the later stage of follow-up in 1 case, all of which were cured. The torsion of outflow tract was attributed to the change of anastomotic angle after the growth of donor liver. After the improvement of anastomotic method, the complication did not recur in the later stage. There was no complication of portal hypertension. The measurement of ultrasonic portal vein blood flow velocity showed that the blood flow of residual liver decreased significantly in the early stage after operation, and maintained a very low blood flow velocity or occlusion in the long term after operation, and the blood flow of transplanted liver was stable. Conclusions: Auxiliary liver transplantation can implant ultra-small donor liver through compensation of residual liver. This method may promote the development of living donor left lobe donation and split liver transplantation. However, the auxiliary liver transplantation is complex, and it is difficult to control the complications. Therefore, this method is currently limited to centers that are skilled in living related liver transplantation and that have complete ability to monitor and deal with complications.

Experimental model of portal hypertension and esophagogastric varices in minipigs: pressure and endoscopic pilot study

Introduction: Portal hypertension still represents an important health problem worldwide. In the search for knowledge regarding this syndrome, experimental studies with animal models have proven to be useful to point the direction to be taken in future randomized clinical trials. Purpose: To validate the experimental model of portal hypertension and esophagogastric varices in a medium-sized animal. Methods: This study included five minipigs br1. Midline laparotomy with dissection of the portal vein and production of a calibrated stenosis of this vein was performed. Measurement of pressure in the portal venous and digestive endoscopic were performed before and five weeks after the production of a stenosis. Results: All animals were 8 months old, average weight of 17 ± 2.5 kg. The mean pressure of the portal vein immediately before the partial ligation of the portal vein was 8.9 + 1.6 mm Hg, with 26.6 + 5.4 mm Hg in the second measurement five weeks later (p < 0.05). No gastroesophageal varices or hypertensive portal gastropathy were seen at endoscopy procedures in our sample at any time in the study. Conclusion: Portal vein ligation in minipigs has been validated in the production of portal hypertension, but not in the formation of esophageal varices.

Clinical application of bipolar tweezers-clamp for hepatic parenchymal transection / 中华外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of the bipolar tweezers-clamp for the hepatic parenchymal transection in the resection of hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods: From January 2020 to January 2021,63 patients with the hepatocellular carcinoma for hepatectomy at Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery,Yuebei People's Hospital Affiliated to Shantou University Medical College were analyzed retrospectively.According to the different instruments used in the hepatic parenchymal transection,the patients were divided into bipolar tweezers-clamp group and ultrasonic scalpel group.There were 32 patients in bipolar tweezers-clamp group,with age of (55.5±10.5)years(range:37 to 78 years),including 22 males and 10 females,tumor size was (6.0±3.4)cm(range:2.4 to 13.4 cm). There were 6 patients with portal vein tumor thrombus and 5 patients with portal hypertension. There were 31 patients in ultrasonic scalpel group,with aged(57.8±10.1)years(range:37 to 79 years),including 27males and 4 females,tumor size was(7.9±5.1)cm(range: 2.4 to 21.3 cm),3 patients with portal vein tumor thrombus and 2 patients with portal hypertension. The preoperative baseline data,operation time,blood loss,postoperative liver function and the complications were compared between two groups using t test,χ2 test and Fisher exact probabilityrespectively. Results: The operation was successfully completed in both groups.Compared with the ultrasonic scalpel group,the operation time was significantly shorter((219.3±76.4)minutes vs.(294.0±100.8)minutes,t=-3.322,P=0.002),the blood loss was less((250(475)ml vs. 500(1 050)ml,t=-2.307,P=0.026),the concentrate red blood cells transfusion volume was less(0.92(0.88)U vs. 2.32(4.00)U,Z=-1.987,P=0.047) in the bipolar tweezers-clamp group.The postoperative serum ALB level was higher in the bipolar tweezers-clamp group than that in the ultrasonic scalpel group((33.5±6.1)g/L vs. (29.5±4.2)g/L,t=3.226,P=0.020) on postoperative day 1;((35.7±4.5)g/L vs.(30.1±3.2)g/L,t=5.575,P<0.01) on postoperative day 3;((33.2±3.7)g/L vs. (31.0±4.4)g/L,t=3.020,P=0.004) on postoperative day 7. There was no significant difference in serum ALT,TBIL and PT level between the two groups(all P>0.05).No postoperative bile leakage occurred in both groups.The postoperative complications occurred in 8 cases(25.0%)in the bipolar tweezers-clamp group,including liver failure in one,and in 11 cases(35.5%)in the ultrasonic scalpel group,including liver failure in two(P>0.05). Conclusion: The bipolar tweezers-clamp is a safe and reliable method for the hepatic parenchymal transaction,which is quick and less bleeding during the hepatic resection.

Chinese expert surgical procedure consensus on open pericardial devascularization(2021) / 中华外科杂志

Although the treatment strategy of esophageal and gastric varices bleeding in portal hypertension has been diversified and multidisciplinary now,the surgical treatment represented by pericardial devascularization operation will still play an important and irreplaceable role in China. In order to standardize the surgical procedure,guide clinical practice and improve the level of surgical treatment of portal hypertension,Chinese Society of Spleen and Portal Hypertension Surgery,Chinese Surgical Society,Chinese Medical Association organized Chinese experts to formulate this consensus. The main contents include:the position of surgical treatment,surgical indications and contraindications,preoperative evaluation,key points and precautions of surgical procedure,perioperative treatment,prevention and treatment of postoperative complications. The consensus emphasizes the standardization of surgical treatment of portal hypertension,pay attention to the prevention and treatment of postoperative portal vein thrombosis,and expect to provide surgeons with clinical guidance.

Does the drop in portal pressure after esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy influence the variation of variceal calibers and the rebleeding rates in schistosomiasis in late follow-up? / A queda da pressão portal após desvascularização esofagogástrica e esplenectomia influencia a variação do calibre das varizes e as taxas de ressangramento na esquistossomose no seguimento em longo prazo?

ABSTRACT Background: The treatment of choice for patients with schistosomiasis with previous episode of varices is bleeding esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy (EGDS) in association with postoperative endoscopic therapy. However, studies have shown varices recurrence especially after long-term follow-up. Aim: To assess the impact on behavior of esophageal varices and bleeding recurrence after post-operative endoscopic treatment of patients submitted to EGDS. Methods: Thirty-six patients submitted to EGDS were followed for more than five years. They were divided into two groups, according to the portal pressure drop, more or less than 30%, and compared with the behavior of esophageal varices and the rate of bleeding recurrence. Results: A significant reduction on the early and late post-operative varices caliber when compared the pre-operative data was observed despite an increase in diameter during follow-up that was controlled by endoscopic therapy. Conclusion: The drop in portal pressure did not significantly influence the variation of variceal calibers when comparing pre-operative and early or late post-operative diameters. The comparison between the portal pressure drop and the rebleeding rates was also not significant.

RESUMO Racional: O tratamento de escolha para pacientes com hipertensão portal esquistossomótica com sangramento de varizes é a desconexão ázigo-portal mais esplenectomia (DAPE) associada à terapia endoscópica. Porém, estudos mostram aumento do calibre das varizes em alguns pacientes durante o seguimento em longo prazo. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto da DAPE e tratamento endoscópico pós-operatório no comportamento das varizes esofágicas e recidiva hemorrágica, de pacientes esquistossomóticos. Métodos: Foram estudados 36 pacientes com seguimento superior a cinco anos, distribuídos em dois grupos: queda da pressão portal abaixo de 30% e acima de 30% comparados com o calibre das varizes esofágicas no pós-operatório precoce e tardio além do índice de recidiva hemorrágica. Resultados: Após a DAPE houve diminuição significativa no calibre das varizes esofágicas que, durante o seguimento aumentaram de calibre e foram controladas com tratamento endoscópico. A queda da pressão portal não influenciou significativamente o comportamento do calibre das varizes no pós-operatório precoce nem tardio nem os índices de recidiva hemorrágica. Conclusão: A queda na pressão portal não influenciou significativamente a variação dos calibres das varizes ao comparar os diâmetros pré e pós-operatórios precoces ou tardios. A comparação entre a queda de pressão do portal e as taxas de ressangramento também não foi significativa.

Safety and efficacy of a novel shunt surgery combined with foam sclerotherapy of varices for prehepatic portal hypertension: a pilot study

OBJECTIVES: This pilot study investigated the safety and efficacy of a novel shunt surgery combined with foam sclerotherapy of varices in patients with prehepatic portal hypertension. METHODS: Twenty-seven patients who were diagnosed with prehepatic portal hypertension and underwent shunt surgeries were divided into three groups by surgery type: shunt surgery alone (Group A), shunt surgery and devascularization (Group B), and shunt surgery combined with foam sclerotherapy (Group C). Between-group differences in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, portal pressure decrease, postoperative complications, rebleeding rates, encephalopathy, mortality rates and remission of gastroesophageal varices were compared. RESULTS: Groups A, B and C had similar operation times, intraoperative bleeding, and portal pressure decrease. The remission rates of varices differed significantly (p<0.001): one patient in Group A and 6 patients in Group B had partial response, and all 9 patients in Group C had remission (2 complete, 7 partial). Two Group A patients and one Group B patient developed recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding postoperatively within 12 months. No postoperative recurrence or bleeding was observed in Group C, and no sclerotherapy-related complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Shunt surgery combined with foam sclerotherapy obliterates varices more effectively than shunt surgery alone does, decreasing the risk of postoperative rebleeding from residual gastroesophageal varices. This novel surgery is safe and effective with good short-term outcomes.

Diminuição da pressão portal após desconexão ázigo-portal e esplenectomia na esquistossomose: comportamento a longo prazo das varizes, taxa de ressangramento e papel do tratamento endoscópico / Portal pressure decrease after esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy in schistosomiasis: long-term varices behavior, rebleeding rate, and role of endoscopic treatment

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis is an endemic health problem affecting about four million people. The hepatosplenic form of the disease is characterized by periportal hepatic fibrosis, pre-sinusoidal portal hypertension and splenomegaly. Liver function is preserved, being varices bleeding the main complication of the disease. The surgical treatment used in the majority of centers for the prevention of rebleeding is esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy. Most authors reported better results with the association of surgical and postoperative endoscopic treatment. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the intra operative portal pressure decrease and esophageal varices behavior and rebleeding rates in patients submitted to surgical and postoperative endoscopic treatment after long-term follow-up. METHODS: A retrospective study of 36 patients with schistosomiasis with, at least, one previous bleeding from esophageal varices rupture submitted to esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy, added to endoscopic varices postoperative treatment was performed. Patients were stratified according to the intra operative portal pressure decrease in two groups: reduction below and above 30%. Long-term varices presence, size and bleeding recurrence were evaluated. RESULTS: Regarding varices behavior, no significant influence was observed in both groups of portal pressure fall. Regarding bleeding recurrence, despite three times more frequent in the group with lower portal pressure fall, no significant difference was observed. All patients were submitted to postoperative endoscopic treatment. CONCLUSION: Esophageal varices banding, rather than portal pressure decrease, seems to be the main responsible factor for good results after combination of two therapies (surgery and endoscopy) for patients with portal hypertension due to schistosomiasis; further studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A esquistossomose é um problema de saúde pública endêmico, afetando cerca de quatro milhões de pessoas. A forma hepato-esplênica da doença é caracterizada por fibrose peri-portal, hipertensão pré-sinusoidal e esplenomegalia. A função hepática está preservada, sendo o sangramento por varizes a principal complicação da afecção. O tratamento cirúrgico usado pela maioria dos serviços para prevenção do ressangramento é a desconexão ázigo-portal e esplenectomia. Muitos autores reportaram melhores resultados com a associação do tratamento cirúrgico e o tratamento endoscópico pós-operatório. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a queda da pressão portal intraoperatória com o comportamento das varizes esofagianas e as taxas de ressangramento em pacientes submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico e endoscópico pós-operatório após seguimento de longo prazo. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo de 36 pacientes esquistossomóticos com pelo menos um episódio de sangramento prévio por ruptura de varizes esofagianas, submetidos a desconexão ázigo-portal e esplenectomia, associada a tratamento endoscópico pós-operatório das varizes. Os pacientes foram divididos de acordo com a queda da pressão portal intraoperatória em dois grupos: redução menor e maior que 30%. Foram avaliadas a presença de tamanho das varizes a longo prazo e a recorrência do sangramento. RESULTADOS: Levando-se em conta o comportamento das varizes, não foi observada influência significativa em ambos os grupos de queda de pressão portal. Com relação ao ressangramento das varizes, embora três vezes mais frequente no grupo com menor queda de pressão portal, não foi observada diferença estatística. Todos pacientes foram submetidos a tratamento endoscópico pós-operatório. CONCLUSÃO: A ligadura elástica das varizes esofagianas, mais do que a queda da pressão portal, parece ser o principal fator responsável pelos bons resultados após a combinação das duas terapias (cirúrgica e endoscópica) para pacientes com hipertensão portal devido à esquistossomose. Estudos futuros serão necessário para confirmar esta hipótese.

Observational Cohort Study of Hepatic Encephalopathy After Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS)

Abstract: Introduction and aim. Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a common complication of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting (TIPS). It is associated with a reduced quality of life and poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to compare two groups of patients who did and did not develop overt HE after TIPS. We looked for differences between these groups before TIPS. Material and methods. A study of 895 patients was conducted based on a retrospective analysis of clinical data. Data was analyzed using Fisher’s exact test, χ2, Mann Whitney test, unpaired t-test and logistic regression. After the initial analyses, we have looked at a regression models for the factors associated with development of HE after TIPS. Results. 257 (37.9%) patients developed HE after TIPS. Patients’ age, pre-TIPS portal venous pressure, serum creatinine, aspartate transaminase, albumin, presence of diabetes mellitus and etiology of portal hypertension were statistically significantly associated with the occurrence of HE after TIPS (p < 0.01). However, only the age, pre-TIPS portal venous pressure, serum creatinine, presence of diabetes mellitus and etiology of portal hypertension contributed to the regression model. Patients age, serum creatinine, presence of diabetes mellitus and portal vein pressure formed the model describing development of HE after TIPS for a subgroup of patients with refractory ascites. Conclusion. We have identified, using a substantial sample, several factors associated with the development of HE after TIPS. This could be helpful in further research.

Bariatric surgery in individuals with liver cirrhosis: A narrative review / Cirurgia bariátrica em indivíduos com cirrose hepática: uma revisão narrativa

Summary Introduction: Bariatric surgery has become the gold standard treatment for morbid obesity, but there is no consensus regarding its safety and efficacy among individuals with chronic liver diseases. Objective: To critically evaluate the existing evidence on literature about bariatric surgery in individuals with liver cirrhosis. Method: Narrative review performed by means of an online search in the MEDLINE and LILACS databases. Results: Bariatric surgery is safe and effective in individuals with chronic liver disease without clinical decompensation or significant portal hypertension. Individuals with severe liver function impairment present significantly higher surgical morbidity and mortality. Among candidates to liver transplantation, surgery may be performed before, after and even during transplantation, and there is a predominant trend to perform it after. Vertical sleeve gastrectomy seems to be the most adequate technique in this group of subjects. Conclusion: Bariatric surgery is safe and effective in individuals with compensated cirrhosis without significant portal hypertension, but presents higher morbidity. Among candidates to liver transplantation and/or individuals with severe portal hypertension, morbidity and mortality are significantly higher.

Resumo Introdução: A cirurgia bariátrica tornou-se nos últimos anos o tratamento padrão-ouro para a obesidade mórbida; porém, entre obesos portadores de hepatopatia crônica, não existe consenso a respeito de sua segurança e efetividade. Objetivo: Análise crítica da literatura existente sobre a realização de cirurgia bariátrica em portadores de cirrose hepática. Método: Revisão narrativa por meio de pesquisa online nas bases de dados Medline e Lilacs. Resultados: As cirurgias bariátricas em indivíduos cirróticos sem descompensação clínica levam a resultados satisfatórios. Já indivíduos com hepatopatia grave apresentam morbidade perioperatória e mortalidade significativamente maiores do que as observadas na população obesa sem hepatopatia. Em candidatos a transplante hepático, a cirurgia pode ser realizada antes, durante ou após o transplante, havendo uma tendência predominante à realização após o transplante. A gastrectomia vertical parece ser a técnica mais adequada nesse grupo de pacientes. Conclusão: A cirurgia bariátrica é segura e efetiva em portadores de cirrose hepática compensada e sem hipertensão portal; porém, apresenta maior morbidade. Em candidatos a transplante e/ou indivíduos com hipertensão portal significativa, a morbimortalidade é significativamente maior.

Fast-track protocols in devascularization for cirrhotic portal hypertension / Protocolos rápidos em desvascularização para hipertensão portal por cirrose.

Summary Introduction/objective: fast-tract surgery (FTS) has been rapidly embraced by surgeons as a mechanism for improving patient care and driving down complications and costs. The aim of this study was to determine if any improvement in outcomes occurred after FTS protocol for selective double portazygous disconnection with preserving vagus (SDPDPV) compared with non-FTS postoperative care. Methods: patients eligible for SDPDPV in the period January 2012-April 2014 were randomly selected for the FTS group or non-FTS group. A designed protocol was used in the FTS group with emphasis on an interdisciplinary approach. The non-FTS group was treated using previously established standard procedures. The number of postoperative complications, time of functional recovery and duration of hospital stay were recorded. Results: patients in the FTS group (n=59) and non-FTS group (n=57) did not differ in terms of preoperative data and operative details (p>0.05). The FTS procedure led to significantly better control and faster restoration of gastrointestinal functions, food tolerance, rehabilitation and hospital discharge (p<0.05). Postoperative complications, including nausea/vomiting, severe ascites, wound infection, urinary tract infection and pulmonary infection were all significantly lower in the FTS group (p<0.05). According to the postoperative morbidity classification used by Clavien, overall complications and grade I complications were both significantly lower in the FTS group compared with the non-FTS group (p<0.05). Conclusion: adopting the FTS protocol helped to recover gastrointestinal functions, to reduce frequency of postoperative complications and to reduce hospital stay. The FTS strategy is safe and effective in improving postoperative outcomes. .

Resumo Objetivo: a cirurgia fast-track (FTS) foi rapidamente abraçada por cirurgiões como um mecanismo para melhorar o atendimento ao paciente e reduzir complicações e custos. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar se qualquer melhoria nos resultados de um protocolo FTS para desconexão seletiva dupla porta (SDPDPV), quando comparado ao cuidado pós-operatório não FTS. Métodos: pacientes candidatos a SDPDPV, no período de janeiro de 2012 a abril de 2014, foram selecionados aleatoriamente para o grupo FTS ou grupo não FTS. Um protocolo projetado foi utilizado no grupo FTS, com ênfase em uma abordagem interdisciplinar. O grupo não FTS foi tratado por meio de procedimentos padrão, estabelecidos previamente. O número de complicações pós- -operatórias, o tempo de recuperação funcional e o tempo de internação hospitalar foram registrados. Resultados: os pacientes do grupo de FTS (n=59) e grupo não FTS (n=57) não diferiram em termos de dados pré-operatórios e detalhes cirúrgicos (p>0,05). O procedimento FTS levou à melhora significativa do controle e à restauração mais rápida das funções gastrointestinais, tolerância alimentar, reabilitação e alta hospitalar (p<0,05). Complicações pós-operatórias, incluindo náuseas/vômitos, ascite grave, infecção da ferida, infecção urinária e infecção pulmonar foram significativamente menores no grupo FTS (p<0,05). De acordo com a classificação de morbidade pós-operatória utilizado por Clavien, complicações gerais e complicações de classe I foram ambas significativamente mais baixas no grupo de FTS em comparação com o grupo não FTS (p<0,05). Conclusão: a adoção do protocolo FTS ajudou a recuperar as funções gastrointestinais, reduzir a frequência de complicações pós-operatórias e reduzir tempo de internação hospitalar. A estratégia FTS é segura e eficaz para melhorar os resultados pós-operatórios. .

Improvement of cchistosomal portal hypertensive colopathy after surgical treatment

Context Data on vascular alterations in patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis and portal hypertensive colopathy and changes in these after surgery to decrease portal hypertension are limited. Objective The purpose of this study was to analyse the alterations of portal hypertensive colopathy previously and 6-12 months after splenectomy and gastric devascularization. Methods Twelve patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis who also had upper gastrointestinal bleeding were studied prospectively. Their endoscopic findings before and 6-12 months after the surgery were analysed. In addition, mucosal biopsies from ascending colon, sigmoid colon and rectum at these time points were subjected to histological and histomorphometric assessment. It was used a control group due to lack of normal pattern of the histomorphometric measures of vessels in individuals without portal hypertension. The critical level of significance adopted in all tests was of a maximum probability error of 5%. Results Surgery did not lead to significant improvement in histological and endoscopic findings. However, on histomorphometry, there was a significant decrease in the area, diameter and thickness of the vessels in mucosa at all colonic sites. Conclusion Surgery for decompression of schistosomal portal hypertension has a beneficial effect on the associated colopathy, being best indicated in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding and esophageal varices. .

Contexto Dados em relação às alterações vasculares em pacientes com esquistossomose hepatoesplênica e colopatia hipertensiva portal e suas modificações após cirurgia para atenuação da hipertensão portal são restritos. Objetivo Analisar as alterações da colopatia hipertensiva portal antes e seis a 12 meses após a esplenectomia e desvascularização gástrica. Métodos Foram estudados prospectivamente 12 pacientes com esquistossomose hepatoesplênica e antecedente de hemorragia digestiva alta. Os achados colonoscópicos antes e após 6 a 12 meses após a cirurgia foram analisados. Nesses períodos, biopsias da mucosa do cólon ascendente, sigmóide e reto foram encaminhadas para análise histológica e histomorfométrica. Foi utilizado um grupo controle pela falta de padrão de normalidade das medidas histomorfométricas das vênulas do cólon e reto em indivíduos sem hipertensão portal. O nível de significância crítica adotado em todos os testes foi de probabilidade máxima de erro de 5%. Resultados Não foram encontradas diferenças significantes na intensidade das alterações endoscópicas e histológicas nos vasos da mucosa do cólon e reto após a cirurgia. Entretanto, houve decréscimo estatisticamente significante nas áreas, diâmetros e espessuras dos vasos estudados através da histomorfometria. Conclusão Cirurgia para descompressão da hipertensão portal esquistossomótica tem efeito benéfico na colopatia associada, sendo bem indicada nos pacientes com hemorragia digestive alta e varizes esofágicas. .

Mortality and complications in patients with portal hypertension who underwent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) - 12 years experience / Mortalidade e complicações em pacientes com hipertensão portal submetidos a derivação portossistêmica transjugular intra-hepática (TIPS) - 12 anos de experiência

CONTEXT: Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is the non-surgical treatment option with low level of morbi-mortality and possibility of accomplishment in patients with severe hepatic dysfunction which aims at decompressing the portal system treating or reducing the portal hypertension complications. OBJECTIVE: Outline the profile analyze global and early mortality, and the complications presented by cirrhotic patients who underwent TIPS for treatment of digestive hemorrhage by portal hypertension. METHOD: Retrospective study based on the data bank of cirrhotic patients' medical reports, who underwent TIPS for digestive hemorrhage by portal hypertension treatment who did not respond to clinical endoscopic treatment, and were assisted from 1998 to 2010 in the Liver Transplant Service at a university hospital. The study was approved by the Committee of Ethics and Research. RESULTS: The sample was comprised of 72 (84.7%) patients, being 57 (79.2%) males, average age 47.7 years (age range from 16 to 85 years and SD = 13), 21 (29.2%) patients presented liver disease as cause excessive intake of alcoholic drinks; 21 (29.2%) contamination by hepatitis virus, 16 (22.2%) excessive alcohol intake associated with virus and 14 (19.4%) patients presented other causes. As for initial classification, 14 (20%) had Child-Pugh A, 33 (47.1%) Child-Pugh B and 23 (32.9%) Child-Pugh C. Initial MELD was obtained in 68 patients being 37 (54.4%) higher than 15 points while 31 (45.6%) had up to 15 points. Early death occurred in 19 (26.4%). Global mortality occurred in 41 (60.3%). CONCLUSIONS: Mortality is directly related to clinical factors of patients, being Child-Pugh and MELD classifications predictors of mortality, with more impact in patients with Child-Pugh class C and MELD > 15. The complications found were similar to those described in the literature, although the dysfunction by stent stenosis (26.4%) was lower than in the most of the studies and the encephalopathy incidence (58.3%) was higher. Probably, the high incidence of encephalopathy is explained by the low incidence of stenosis.

CONTEXTO: Derivação portossistêmica transjugular intra-hepática (TIPS) é opção de tratamento não cirúrgico com baixo índice de morbimortalidade e possibilidade de realização em pacientes com disfunção hepática grave que visa descomprimir o sistema porta tratando ou reduzindo as complicações da hipertensão portal. OBJETIVO: Traçar o perfil, analisar mortalidade global e precoce, e as complicações apresentadas pelos pacientes cirróticos submetidos a TIPS para tratamento da hemorragia digestiva por hipertensão portal. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo baseado no banco de dados dos prontuários dos pacientes cirróticos submetidos a TIPS para tratamento da hemorragia digestiva por hipertensão portal que não responderam ao tratamento clínico-endoscópico e atendidos no período de 1998 a 2010 no Serviço de Transplante de Fígado de um hospital universitário. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética e Pesquisa. RESULTADOS: Amostra foi composta de 72 (84,7%) pacientes, sendo 57 (79,2%) do sexo masculino, idade média de 47,4 anos (entre 16 e 85 anos e DP = 13); 21 (29,2%) pacientes apresentavam como causa da doença hepática o consumo excessivo de álcool; 21 (29,2%) a contaminação por vírus da hepatite, 16 (22,2%) o consumo excessivo de álcool associado a vírus e 14 (19,4%) pacientes apresentavam outras causas. Quanto à classificação inicial, 14 (20%) tinham Child-Pugh A, 33 (47,1%) Child-Pugh B e 23 (32,9%) Child-Pugh C. MELD inicial foi obtido em 68 pacientes, sendo 37 (54,4%) com mais de 15 pontos, enquanto 31 (45,6%) tiveram até 15 pontos. Óbito precoce ocorreu em 19 (26,4%). Mortalidade global ocorreu em 41 (60,3%). CONCLUSÃO: Mortalidade está diretamente relacionada a fatores clínicos dos pacientes, sendo as classificações de Child-Pugh e MELD preditoras de mortalidade, com maior impacto em pacientes com Child-Pugh classe C e MELD >15. As complicações encontradas foram semelhantes às descritas na literatura, porém a disfunção por estenose do stent (26,4%) foi menor que a maioria dos estudos e a incidência de encefalopatia (58,3%) superior. Provavelmente, esta alta incidência seja explicada pela baixa incidência de estenose.

Haga su diagnóstico / Make your diagnosis

El diagnóstico es Fístula arterioportal congénita

Influência da inversão do diâmetro veia porta/veia esplênica nos resultados do tratamento cirúrgico da hipertensão portal esquistossomótica / Influence of the inversion of the portal/splenic vein diameter in the results of the surgical treatment of schistossomotic portal hypertension

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a morbidade e a mortalidade no tratamento cirúrgico da hipertensão portal esquistossomótica em pacientes portadores de inversão do diâmetro entre a veia porta e veia esplênica. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal retrospectivo, de pacientes submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico da hipertensão no período entre setembro de 1993 e Janeiro de 2004. A população do estudo foi distribuída em dois grupos: a) Inversão - calibre da veia esplênica maior ou igual ao da veia porta) e b) grupo controle (calibre da veia porta maior que o da veia esplênica). Na análise estatística foram utilizados o teste t de student para diferença de médias, quiquadrado para diferença de proporções e o exato de Fisher para amostras reduzidas. RESULTADOS: 169 pacientes foram analisados com seguimento pós-operatório médio de 23,6 meses. 21 pacientes (12,4 por cento) apresentavam a veia esplênica de igual ou maior calibre que a veia porta (Inversão - grupo de estudo). A média dos diâmetros pré-operatórios das veias porta e esplênica foram, respectivamente, 1,49/1,14cm no grupo controle, e 0,98/1,07cm no grupo de inversão. O diâmetro da veia porta foi significativamente maior no grupo controle quando comparado ao grupo de inversão (p<0,05). A presença de varizes de fundo gástrico foi identificada em 33,3 por cento do grupo de inversão e em 38,5 por cento dos pacientes do grupo controle. Recidiva hemorrágica pós-operatória ocorreu em 23,1 por cento dos pacientes do grupo de inversão e em 13,4 por cento no grupo controle (p>0,05). Na avaliação pós-operatória com ultrassonografia Doppler de vasos portais, não houve casos de trombose portal no grupo de inversão, e no grupo controle a trombose portal foi identificada em 16,9 por cento dos pacientes (p<0,05). O óbito ocorreu em um (4,8 por cento) paciente do grupo inversão, e a mortalidade foi de 4,1 por cento no grupo controle (p>0,05). A média do nível sérico de plaquetas foi significativamente menor (65.950/mm□) no grupo de inversão do que no grupo controle (106.647/mm□) (p<0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados sugerem que a inversão do calibre veia porta/esplênica não representa uma contraindicação ao tratamento cirúrgico da hipertensão portal esquistossomótica.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the morbidity and mortality in surgical treatment of schistosomal portal hypertension in patients with inversion of the Portal/Splenic Vein diameter ratio. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study of patients undergoing surgical treatment of portal hypertension in the period between September 1993 and January 2004. The study population was divided into two groups: a) Inversion - splenic vein diameter greater than or equal to portal vein's - and b) control group (portal vein diameter greater than the splenic vein's). Statistical comparisons used the Student t test for averages difference, chi-square test for proportions difference and Fisher's exact test for small samples. RESULTS: 169 patients were analyzed, with follow-up averaging 23.6 months. Twenty-one patients (12.4 percent) had splenic vein caliber greater of equal than the portal vein's (Inversion - study group). The mean preoperative diameter of the portal and splenic veins were respectively 1.49 and 1.14 cm in the control group, and 0.98 versus 1.07 cm in the inversion group. The portal vein diameter was significantly higher in the control group when compared to the inversion group (p <0.05). Varices in the gastric fundus were found in 33.3 percent of the inversion group and in 38.5 percent of patients in the control group. Postoperative rebleeding occurred in 23.1 percent of patients in the inversion group and in 13.4 percent of the control group ones (p> 0.05). In the postoperative evaluation with Doppler ultrasonography of portal vessels, no cases of portal vein thrombosis were observed in the inversion group, whilst in the control group portal thrombosis was identified in 16.9 percent of the patients (p <0.05). Death occurred in one (4.8 percent) individual from the inversion group; mortality was 4.1 percent in the control group (p>0.05). The mean serum level of platelets was significantly lower (65,950/mm□) in the inversion group than in the controls (106,647/mm□) (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the reversal of portal/splenic vein caliber ratio does not represent a contraindication to surgical treatment of schistosomal portal hypertension.

Técnica quirúrgica para el tratamiento de la hipertensión portal prehepática en el adulto / Surgical technique for treatment of a prehepatic portal hypertension in the adult

Se describe el caso de una paciente de 24 años que presentaba hipertensión portal prehepática por trombosis de la vena porta, secundaria a un cateterismo de la vena umbilical en el período neonatal, a quien se le realizó una técnica quirúrgica novedosa utilizada solamente en los niños. Esta paciente tenía várices esofágicas, gastropatía portal e hiperesplenismo con gran esplenomegalia. Se le realizó una esplenectomía parcial con desvascularización gástrica parcial troncular (ligadura de las arterias y venas coronarioestomáquicas y gastroepiploicas derechas). La paciente recuperó las concentraciones hemáticas normales, las várices desaparecieron, no ha vuelto a sangrar y el bazo no ha crecido en un período de evolución de 1 año y medio. Consideramos que esta es una buena alternativa quirúrgica en pacientes con hipertensión portal prehepática, a cualquier edad(AU)

This is the case of a female patient aged 24 presenting with prehepatic portal hypertension secondary to a catheterization of the umbilical vein in neonatal period who undergoes a novel surgical technique used only in children. This patient had esophageal varices, portal gastropathy and hypersplenism with a significant splenomegaly A partial splenectomy with truncal partial gastric devascularization (ligature of right coronary-stomachic and gastroepiploic arteries and veins). Patient recovered the normal hematic concentrations, varices disappeared without bleeding and spleen growth during a period of one a half year. Authors considered that this is a good surgical alternative in patients presenting with prehepatic portal hypertension at any age(AU)

Hipertensión portal en pediatría: II: complicaciones hemorrágicas / Portal hypertension in pediatrics: II: hemorrhagic complications

La hemorragia por várices esofágicas es la complicación más grave de la hipertensión portal y su tratamiento debe hacerse en centros con la complejidad y capacitación que requiere. El tratamiento con fármacos vasoactivos, especialmente el octreótido, asociado a la ligadura o esclerosis endoscópica de las várices es eficaz en el 90% de los casos. Los tratamientos de rescate, como TIPS (derivación portosistémica intrahepática transyugular) o cirugía, deben estar disponibles inmediatamente para aquellos pacientes en los que el sangrado no se detiene o presentan várices de difícil manejo.

Bleeding from esophageal varices is the most severe complication of portal hypertension, and should be managed in specially trained centers. Vasoactive drugs, mainly octreotide, plus endoscopic treatment are able to control bleeding in 90% of the cases. Rescue treatments like TIPS and surgery should be immediately available for those who do not stop bleeding or have varicesdifficult to manage.

Trombose de veia porta após desconexão ázigo-portal e esplenectomia em pacientes esquistossomóticos: qual a real importância? / Portal vein thrombosis after esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy in schistosomal portal hypertension patients: what's the real importance?

CONTEXTO: A complicação mais frequente após a desconexão ázigo-portal e esplenectomia em doentes com esquistossomose mansônica hepatoesplênica é a trombose da veia porta. OBJETIVOS:Avaliar a incidência, os fatores preditivos dessa complicação, assim como, a evolução clínica, laboratorial, endoscópica e ultrassonográfica desses pacientes. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados retrospectivamente os prontuários de 155 doentes esquistossomóticos submetidos a desconexão ázigo-portal e esplenectomia. RESULTADOS: Trombose de veia porta foi observada em 52,3 por cento dos pacientes, sendo 6,5 por cento de trombose total e 45,8 por cento de trombose parcial. Os pacientes que evoluíram com trombose de veia porta apresentaram mais frequentemente diarreia no pós-operatório. Febre foi evento habitual que ocorreu em 70 por cento dos casos, mais frequente, entretanto, nos doentes com trombose total da veia porta (100 por cento). Trombose de veia mesentérica superior ocorreu em quatro doentes (2,6 por cento), sendo mais frequente entre os com trombose total da veia porta. Não se encontrou diferença estatística quanto aos parâmetros clínicos, laboratoriais, endoscópicos e recidiva hemorrágica no pós-operatório tardio, quando comparados os pacientes com e sem trombose portal. CONCLUSÕES: A trombose de veia porta no pós-operatório da desconexão ázigo-portal e esplenectomia é evento frequente, sem nenhum fator preditivo para sua ocorrência; na maioria dos casos a trombose é parcial e apresenta evolução benigna, com baixa morbidade; trombose total da veia porta está mais frequentemente associada à trombose da veia mesentérica superior, com elevada morbidade; a trombose da veia porta, parcial ou total, não acarretou complicações no período pós-operatório tardio.

CONTEXT: Portal vein thrombosis is the most frequent complication after esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy for hepatosplenic schistosomosis. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate portal vein thrombosis in 155 patients with schistosomal portal hypertension submitted to esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed not only the incidence and predictive factors of this complication, but also clinical, laboratorial, endoscopic and Doppler sonography outcome of these patients. RESULTS: Postoperative portal thrombosis was observed in 52.3 percent of the patients (partial in 45.8 percent and total in 6.5 percent). Postoperative diarrhea was more frequent in patients with portal vein thrombosis. Fever was a frequent postoperative symptom (70 percent) but occurred in a higher percentage when total portal vein thrombosis was present (100 percent). Superior mesenteric vein thrombosis occurred in four patients (2.6 percent) and was associated with total thrombosis of the portal vein. There was no statistical difference between patients with and without portal vein thrombosis according to clinical and endoscopic parameters during late follow-up. It was not possible to identify any predictive factor for the occurrence of this complication. CONCLUSIONS: Portal vein thrombosis is an early and frequent event after esophagogastric devascularization and splenectomy, usually partial with benign outcome and low morbidity. Total portal vein thrombosis is more frequently associated with a high morbidity complication, the superior mesenteric vein thrombosis. Long-term survival was not influenced by either partial or total portal thrombosis.

Splenectomy only, and splenectomy with devascularisation in a rural hospital: a six years experience of a General Surgeon

Bilharzial portal hypertension is a common problem in Elgezira Scheme, Sudan, where this study was conducted. The most serious complication of this disease is bleeding from oesophageal varices, and many patients present with features of hypersplenism. Splenectomy is a known effective procedure to cure cytopenia in patients with hypersplenism but also play a role in arresting variceal bleeding when coupled with devascularization. The aim of this study is to determine the indications, outcome and complications of splenectomy only and splenectomy with devascularisation [SD] in patients with bilharzial portal hypertension in an area with limited hospital facilities. The hospital lacks equipments for sclerotherapy, has limited blood bank service, no consultant anaesthetist and no intensive care unit. The study was conducted during the period between June 1994 and June 2000 at Elmanagil hospital. This is a retrospective study and patients were followed up every 6 months for 3 years. One hundred and fifty patients underwent SD and 116 underwent splenectomy; 72% patients were males, 90% of the patients ages were between 20 - 60 years. Following splenectomy, cytopenia was corrected in all patients with hypersplenism within 3 months after operation. The recurrence rate of haematemesis was 12% in those 111 patients who could be followed up for 3 years. The commonest post operative complications were malaria [6%], chest infection [4%]. Less common complications were wound sepsis 1,5% intra - abdominal sepsis 1% and pseudopancreatic cyst 1%. Six patients died within the first 3 weeks [2.2%]. Splenectomy is an effective procedure to correct hypersplenism while SD control variceal bleeding due to bilharzial portal hypertension within 3 yrs period of follow up

Colecistectomía en cirróticos: factores asociados a morbilidad y mortalidad / Complications after cholecystectomy among cirrhotic patients

Introducción: Los enfermos cirróticos tienen una mayor prevalencia de colelitiasis y una mayor morbilidad y mortalidad quirúrgica que la población general. Objetivos: Evaluar y determinar factores predictores de morbilidad y mortalidad por colecistectomía en pacientes cirróticos. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 23 enfermos con cirrosis hepática sometidos a colecistectomía entre 2000 y 2006 en el Hospital Clínico de la P. Universidad Católica. En cada paciente se evaluaron parámetros clínicos, bioquímicos, quirúrgicos y sus complicaciones hasta el alta y/o a 30 días. Se utilizó la clasificación de Child, el modelo de enfermedad hepática terminal (MELD) y la presencia de hipertensión portal (HTP) como predictores de complicación. Se utilizó el test deWilcoxon, el test de McNemary la prueba exacta de Fisher. Se consideró significativo un p< 0,05. Resultados: El grupo está formado por 11 hombres y 12 mujeres, con una edad de 60,5 + - 2,1 años. Las indicaciones quirúrgicas fueron colelitiasis sintomática en 20 enfermos y colecistitis aguda en 3. En 21 enfermos la colecistectomía fue vía laparoscópica y en 2 vía abierta. Seis enfermos presentaron hipertensión portal. Dieciocho eran Child A, tres Child B y uno Child C. El MELD preoperatorio fue de 8,5 + - 4,2 puntos. Cinco enfermos presentaron complicaciones postoperatorias; Síndrome hepatorrenal en dos, infección de herida operatoria en uno, reagudización de uropatía obstructiva baja en uno y convulsiones de origen inespecífico en uno. Las complicaciones se observaron en dos enfermos Child A, 2 Child B y el paciente Child C (p<0,05). Además, presentaron complicaciones dos enfermos con HTP y tres (17,6 por ciento) sin HPT (p=ns). El MELD de los enfermos sin complicaciones fue 7,8 + - 3,7 y de 10,6 + - 5,5 en los con complicaciones (p=ns). Fallecieron los dos enfermos con síndrome hepatorrenal. No hubo mortalidad entre los enfermos Child A, falleció uno Child B y el único paciente Child C (p<0,05). La mo...