Choledocoduodenal Biliary Bypass for Recurrent Choledocholithiasis in a Patient with Gastric Bypass: An Old Trick to Solve a Modern Problem.

Bariatric patients are at risk for developing biliary stones. Choledocholithiasis poses a significant challenge in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients due to anatomical changes, complicating the treatment. We present a case of a 71-year-old female with recurrent choledocholithiasis post-bariatric surgery. After failed endoscopic attempts, a biliodigestive bypass with choledocoduodenal anastomosis was performed successfully using the Da Vinci robotic platform. This technique offers a single anastomosis, excluding the duodenum from transit, preventing food reflux. The patient had an uneventful recovery with no recurrence after 1 year. The choledocoduodenal anastomosis is a viable option for biliary diversion in patients with challenging endoscopic access post-gastric bypass, offering favorable outcomes.

Statin use is not associated with inflammation among Chilean women of Mapuche and non-Mapuche ancestry with gallstones.

Aim: Statins are associated with lower risk of gallstones due to anti-inflammatory effects. We assessed whether statins impact circulating inflammation among Chilean women with gallstones. Materials & methods: 200 Mapuche women were matched on statin use and age to 200 non-Mapuche women in the Chile Biliary Longitudinal Study. We analyzed 92 inflammatory biomarkers using multivariable-adjusted regression models, random forests and pathway analyses. Results: Statins were not significantly associated with any inflammation marker when women were analyzed jointly or stratified by ancestry. No significant associations were found through random forest methods and pathway analyses. Discussion: We did not find significant associations between statin use and inflammation markers in women with gallstones, suggesting that statins do not reduce inflammation once gallstones have formed.

Statins are prescribed to lower cholesterol and can also decrease the risk of gallstone formation by reducing inflammation. We assessed whether statin use reduces inflammation among women who have already developed gallstones. We analyzed 92 inflammation markers among 400 women in Chile, including 200 women with Mapuche Amerindian ancestry and 200 women of Latina/European ancestry. We found that statin use was not correlated with inflammation in this group of women overall nor by ancestry. This may mean that statin use does not reduce inflammation in women who already were diagnosed with gallstones.

Oclusión intestinal mecánica por íleo biliar. Reporte de caso

La obstrucción de la luz del intestino delgado por un cálculo biliar ubicado de forma anómala, denominada incorrectamente íleo biliar, representa del 1 al 3 % de los síndromes obstructivos intestinales. Se define como una entidad inusual, caracterizada por la obstrucción intestinal mecánica, causada por el impacto de uno o varios cálculos biliares en la luz intestinal, por lo general en el ilion terminal. El objetivo es describir el presente caso por lo infrecuente de esta entidad, describir la sistemática diagnóstica y conducta tomada, así como realizar el análisis de la literatura relacionada. Se trata de una paciente femenina de 87 años de edad, que acude por cuadro de vómitos y distensión abdominal de 20 días de evolución, con muy mal estado general. Se realiza laparotomía exploradora, donde se observa en el ilion proximal gran cálculo de aproximadamente 4 cm, que obstruye la luz en su totalidad. Se realiza enterolitotomía y resección intestinal sin intervención en la vesícula biliar o la vía biliar. Fallece al tercer día del postoperatorio mediato por descompensación de su enfermedad cardiovascular. Se concluye que el íleo biliar es una entidad infrecuente sin estudios que estandaricen un tratamiento específico, y que requiere de intervención quirúrgica. La enterotomía para extracción de cálculos es una técnica segura y eficaz, sin necesidad de intervención en la vía biliar en un primer tiempo.

Obstruction of the lumen of the small intestine by an abnormally located gallstone, incorrectly called gallstone ileus, accounts for 1% to 3% of all obstructive bowel syndromes. It is defined as an unusual entity characterized by mechanical intestinal obstruction, caused by the impact of one or several gallstones in the intestinal lumen, usually in the terminal ilium. The objective is to describe the present case due to the infrequency of this entity, to describe the diagnostic system and conduct taken, as well as to carry out the analysis of the related literature. An 87-year-old female patient presented with symptoms of vomiting and abdominal distension of 20 days of evolution, with an unusual, very poor general condition, characterized by mechanical intestinal obstruction caused by the impact of one or several gallstones in the intestinal lumen, usually in the terminal ilium. An exploratory laparotomy was performed, where a large stone of approximately 4 cm was observed in the proximal ileum which completely obstructed the lumen. Enterolithotomy and bowel resection were performed without intervention in the gallbladder or bile duct. She died on the third day of the immediate postoperative period due to decompensation of her cardiovascular disease. It is concluded that gallstone ileus is a rare entity without studies that standardize a specific treatment and that it requires surgical intervention. Enterotomy for stone removal is a safe and effective technique without the need for intervention in the bile duct in the first time.

Íleo biliar complicado con infección con SARS-CoV-2. Reporte de caso / Gallstone ileus: a challenge in the management of bile duct pathology. Case Report

Introducción: El Íleo biliar (IB) es una obstrucción intestinal mecánica muy poco frecuente, del 1 al 4 % de todas las obstrucciones intestinales, y es más común en pacientes de edad avanzada. Se produce a través de una fístula bilioentérica en el intestino delgado, sobre todo en el íleon distal. Luego de tener un enfoque diagnóstico mediante imagenología, en su gran mayoría, se opta por el tratamiento quirúrgico para eliminar el o los cálculos impactados. El éxito de esta intervención depende en gran medida del tamaño del cálculo biliar, de la ubicación de la obstrucción intestinal y comorbilidades preexistentes. Caso clínico: Mujer de 78 años con cuadro clínico de obstrucción intestinal, emesis de contenido fecaloide y sintomática respiratoria; se evidenció una masa concéntrica a nivel de íleon distal y proceso neumónico concomitante por tomografía toracoabdominal. Se realizó laparotomía exploratoria con enterolitotomía, extracción de cálculo y anastomosis íleo-ileal y fue trasladada a la UCI en donde presentó falla ventilatoria y requerimiento de ventilación mecánica; se confirmó infección viral por SARS-CoV-2 mediante RT - PCR. Discusión: El IB es una obstrucción intestinal que ocurre con mayor frecuencia en pacientes de edad avanzada. Se habla de la fisiopatología y mecanismo de producción de la fístula entérica y se presentan opciones diagnósticas, terapéuticas y quirúrgicas para dirigir el manejo clínico más apropiado. Conclusión: El IB es difícil de diagnosticar. Debido a su baja incidencia, no existe un consenso que paute el manejo a seguir en los pacientes con diagnóstico de IB. Aunque el tratamiento estándar es la intervención quirúrgica, hay diversas opiniones en cuanto al tipo de cirugía a realizar.

Introduction: Biliary ileus (BI) is a very rare mechanical intestinal obstruction, responsible for 1-4% of all intestinal obstructions and more frequent in elderly patients. It occurs through a bilioenteric fistula in the small bowel, mainly in the distal ileum. After a diagnostic imaging approach, the vast majority opt for surgical treatment to remove the impacted stone or stones. The success of this intervention depends largely on the size of the stone, the location of the bowel obstruction and pre-existing comorbidities. Case report: 78-year-old woman with clinical symptoms of intestinal obstruction, fecaloid emesis, respiratory symptoms, concentric mass at the level of the distal ileum and concomitant pneumonic process in the thoraco-abdominal CT scan. Exploratory laparotomy was performed, with total lithotomy, extraction of the calculus and ileo-ileal anastomosis, and she was transferred to the ICU, where she presented ventilatory failure and required mechanical ventilation. SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed with RT-PCR. Discussion: IB is an intestinal obstruction that occurs more frequently in elderly patients. The pathophysiology and the mechanism of production of enteric fistula are discussed and diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical options are presented to guide the most appropriate clinical management. Conclusion: Enteric fistula is difficult to diagnose. Due to its low incidence, there is no consensus on the management of patients diagnosed with IB. Although the standard treatment is surgical intervention, there are divergent opinions as to the type of surgery to be performed.

Íleo biliar: descripción de dos casos / Gallstone ileus: Description of two cases

Introducción. El íleo biliar es una complicación rara de la colelitiasis y su incidencia varía del 1 al 4 %. Consiste en la migración de un cálculo de la vesicular biliar al tracto gastrointestinal, generando obstrucción intestinal. Presenta síntomas inespecíficos dependiendo del nivel de la obstrucción, lo que hace que su diagnóstico no suela ser precoz, repercutiendo en el deterioro clínico del paciente. Es especialmente grave en pacientes de edad avanzada y con comorbilidades. Casos clínicos. Se reportan los casos de dos pacientes con dolor abdominal difuso, en quienes se diagnosticó íleo biliar por tomografía. Se realizó manejo quirúrgico, el primero mediante técnica abierta y estrategia de dos pasos, y el otro mediante técnica laparoscópica. Discusión. El íleo biliar es una etiología rara de obstrucción intestinal. El cálculo migra debido a una fistula colecisto-entérica y el nivel de obstrucción es con mayor frecuencia la válvula ileocecal. Los síntomas son inespecíficos y dependen del nivel de obstrucción: dolor abdominal difuso mal caracterizado, náuseas, vómito, ausencia de flatos. El diagnóstico se hace mediante tomografía abdominal, en la cual se evidencia la tríada de Rigler. El manejo es quirúrgico, con enterotomía para extraer el cálculo y resolver la obstrucción. Conclusión. El íleo biliar es una patología que debe ser considerada en el abordaje de la obstrucción intestinal, aunque sea poco frecuente. El manejo quirúrgico es clave para resolver el cuadro de obstrucción intestinal; aún así genera importante morbimortalidad en especial en pacientes de avanzada edad.

Introduction. Gallstone ileus is a rare complication of cholelithiasis, its incidence varies from 1% to 4%. It consists of the migration of a stone from the gallbladder to the gastrointestinal tract, causing intestinal obstruction. It presents with non-specific symptoms depending on the level of the obstruction, which means that its diagnosis is not usually early, with repercussions on the clinical deterioration of the patient, being serious especially in elderly patients and with comorbidities. Clinical cases. Two patients with diffuse abdominal pain are reported. A tomographic diagnosis was made showing gallstone ileus. Surgeries were performed, in the first case using an open technique and a 2-step strategy, and on the second one using a laparoscopic technique. Discussion. Gallstone ileus is a rare etiology of intestinal obstruction. Symptoms are usually poorly characterized: diffuse abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, absence of flatus. The diagnosis is made by abdominal tomography in which Rigler's triad is evident. Management is surgical through enterotomy to remove the stone and resolve the obstruction. Conclusion. Gallstone ileus is a rare pathology that should be considered in the approach to intestinal obstruction. Surgical management is key to resolving intestinal obstruction. Even so, it generates significant morbidity and mortality, especially in elderly patients.

Íleo biliar: análisis de 21 casos / Gallstone ileus: analysis of 21 cases

RESUMEN Antecedentes : el íleo biliar es una complicación infrecuente de la litiasis vesicular, observada más comúnmente en mujeres añosas. Es causada por la migración, a través de una fístula bilioentérica, de un cálculo que produce la obstrucción del tránsito intestinal, que requiere tratamiento quirúrgico. Objetivo : describir las variables preoperatorias, intraoperatorias y posoperatorias de una serie de casos de íleo biliar y la incidencia de íleo biliar recurrente. Material y métodos: se realizó un estudio retrospectivo observacional de pacientes operados con abdomen agudo obstructivo por íleo biliar entre enero de 2009 y diciembre de 2021. Las variables estudiadas fueron: estudios por imágenes, comorbilidades, vías de abordaje quirúrgico, tipo de cirugía, morbimortalidad y recurrencia del íleo. Resultados : sobre 667 pacientes que ingresaron con obstrucción intestinal, 21 tenían íleo biliar (3,1%). El diagnóstico se realizó por tomografía en el 80% de los casos. El abordaje quirúrgico fue por laparotomía en 20 casos y 1 por laparoscopia convertida. La cirugía más utilizada fue la enterotomía con enterorrafia en 18 casos. El tratamiento de la obstrucción fue la cirugía inmediata, mientras que el de la fístula biliar fue diferido en la mayoría de las oportunidades, debido a que el riesgo de tratarla en el momento era muy elevado. La morbilidad fue del 38% y la recurrencia del íleo biliar 4,7%. No se registró mortalidad. Conclusión : el íleo biliar fue una patología infrecuente, que pudo ser correcta y oportunamente diagnosticada y tratada con cirugía, con una baja incidencia de íleo biliar recurrente.

ABSTRACT Background : Gallstone ileus is a rare complication of cholelithiasis and mainly affects elder women. It is caused by gallstone migration through a cholecystoenteric fistula producing bowel obstruction, with the need for surgical treatment. Objective : The aim of this work was to describe the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables of a case series of gallstone ileus and the incidence of recurrent gallstone ileus. Material and methods : We conducted an observational and retrospective study of patients undergoing surgery due to acute bowel obstruction caused by gallstone ileus between January 2009 and December 2021. The variables analyzed were imaging tests, comorbidities, surgical approach, type of surgery, morbidity and mortality and recurrent ileus. Results : Of 667 patients admitted with bowel obstruction, 21 had gallstone ileus (3.1%). The diagnosis was made by computed tomography scan in 80% of the cases. The surgical approach was laparotomy in 20 cases and 1 patient undergoing laparoscopy required conversion. Enterotomy with enterorrhaphy was the most common procedure used in 18 cases. The obstruction was treated by immediate surgery, while the biliary fistula was deferred in most cases because the risk of immediate treatment was very high. Morbidity was 38% and recurrence of gallstone ileus 4.7%. No deaths were reported. Conclusion : Gallstone ileus was a rare condition that was correctly diagnosed and timely treated with surgery, with a low incidence of recurrent gallstone ileus.

Prevalence of metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in patients with gallstone disease. Study on a cohort of cases in South-Southeastern Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: Metabolic (dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and gallstone disease are entities that share similar risk factors. Numerous publications confirm their elevated frequency, but few studies have considered their prevalence and possible association. AIMS: To determine the prevalence of MAFLD in patients with gallstone disease and the usefulness of liver biopsy for diagnosing the liver disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study was conducted on patients that underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy, in whom liver biopsy was performed. VARIABLES ANALYZED: Anthropometric characteristics, biochemical profile, conventional ultrasound, risk factors, and histopathologic study of the liver biopsy. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Descriptive statistics were carried out for the quantitative variables and the Student's t test and multivariate analysis through binary logistic regression were employed for the continuous variables, utilizing IBM-SPSS, 25.0 (Windows) software. RESULTS: A total of 136 patients were classified into 2 groups: 40 (29.41%) with normal liver and 96 (70.59%) with MAFLD. Of the 136 patients, 71 patients (52.21%) corresponded to hepatic steatosis, 21 (15.44%) to steatohepatitis, and 4 (2.94%) to cirrhosis. Perisinusoidal inflammation was found in 39 cases (28.68%) and fibrosis was found in 10 (7.35%). The risk factors for both groups were age, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Glucose, triglyceride, and aminotransferase levels were significantly higher in the MAFLD group and conventional ultrasound demonstrated moderate concordance for its detection. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The results confirmed the elevated frequency of MAFLD associated with gallstone disease, justifying liver biopsy during cholecystectomy for diagnosing MAFLD.

Clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of dificult biliary stones in a reference hospital in Colombia

The local experience and the success rate of different available treatments for dificult biliary stones in Colombia are poorly described. We made an observational study reporting patients treated for dificult biliary stones, at Hospital Universitario San Ignacio in Bogotá, Colombia between January 2015, and November 2021. Clinical characteristics, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) findings, and outcomes are presented. Additionally, the success rates of Endoscopic Sphincterotomy Plus Large Balloon Dilation (ESLBD), Mechanical Lithotripsy (ML), temporary stenting (TS), cholangioscopy-guided laser lithotripsy (CGLL), and surgery are described. A total of 146 patients were included (median age 69 years, IQR 58.5-78.5, 33.8% men). The median stone diameter was 15 mm (IQR 10 - 18 mm). One stone was presented in 39.9%, two stones in 18.2%, and ≥3 stones in the remaining stone. A 67.6% disproportion rate was observed between the stone and distal common bile duct. Successful stone extraction was achieved in 56.2% in the first procedure, 22.6% in the second, 17.1% in the third, 3.4% in the fourth, and 0.7% in the fifth procedures. The successful extraction rates were 56.8% for ESLBD, 75% for ML, 23.4% for TS, 57.7% for CGLL, and 100% for surgery. Endoscopic management of dificult stones is usually successful, although it usually requires 2 or more ERCPs procedures. The surgical requirements were low. ESLBD is an effective technique unlike TS. Few patients required advanced techniques such as ML or CGLL. Endoscopic procedures are associated with a low rate of complications.

La tasa de éxito de diferentes tratamientos de Cálculo Biliar Difícil (CBD) en Colombia no está descrita. Hemos realizado un estudio descriptivo observacional sobre el tratamiento de CBD en el Hospital Universitario San Ignacio en Bogotá, Colombia entre enero 2015 y noviembre 2021. Se presentan las características clínicas, hallazgos en la Colangiopancreatografía Retrógrada Endoscópica (CPRE) y desenlaces asociados. Adicionalmente, se describe la tasa de éxito de los pacientes tratados mediante esfinterotomía asociada a dilatación endoscópica con balón grande (EDEBG), litotripsia mecánica (LM), stent temporal (ST), litotripsia con láser guiada por colangioscopia (LLGC) y cirugía. 146 pacientes fueron incluidos (Mediana de edad 69 años, RIC 58,6-78,5). 33,8% eran hombres. La mediana del tamaño del CBD fue de 15 mm (RIC 10-18 mm). 39,9% tenían un solo cálculo, 18,2% tenían 2 y el resto ≥3 cálculos. 67,6% tenían desproporción entre el cálculo y el colédoco distal. La extracción exitosa se logró en 56,2% en el primer procedimiento, 22,6% en el segundo, 17,1% en el tercero, 3,4% en el cuarto y 0,7% en el quinto procedimiento. La tasa de extracción exitosa fue de 56,8% con EDEBG, 75% con LM, 23,4% con ST, 57,7% con LLGC y 100% con cirugía. El manejo endoscópico del CBD es usualmente exitoso. Sin embargo, requiere usualmente ≥2 CPRE. El tratamiento quirúrgico no es común. EDEBG es una técnica efectiva a diferencia del ST. Pocos pacientes requirieron técnicas avanzadas como LM o LLGC. Los métodos endoscópicos presentan una baja tasa de complicaciones.

Prevalence of cholelithiasis in lion tamarins (Leontopithecus spp.) kept under human care by using abdominal ultrasound.

BACKGROUND: Cholelithiasis is a digestive system disorder of multifactorial origin that occurs due to stones formed in the gallbladder. This study aimed at investigating by abdominal ultrasound examination the prevalence of cholelithiasis in lion tamarins kept under human care. METHODS: Thirty lion tamarins from five Brazilian zoos, including 17 golden lion tamarins and 13 golden-headed lion tamarins, were evaluated. RESULTS: Considering all lion tamarins, the overall frequency of cholelithiasis was 53.3% (16/30). There were no significant differences between species and sex. Cholelithiasis was predominant (75.0%) in lion tamarins older than 5 years. Septate gallbladder was observed in 86.6% (26/30) of the lion tamarins. Of these, 53.8% (14/26) had gallstones. Biochemical analysis revealed a moderate positive correlation between gamma-glutamyl transferase and the number of gallstones. CONCLUSIONS: Asymptomatic cholelithiasis is frequent in lion tamarins kept under human care. Therefore, systematic monitoring through ultrasound should be part of the preventive care of these animals.

Asymptomatic cholelithiasis: expectant or cholecystectomy. a systematic review / Colelitíase assintomática: expectante ou colecistectomia. revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Asymptomatic cholelithiasis is a highly prevalent disease, and became more evident after the currently greater access to imaging tests. Therefore, it is increasingly necessary to analyse the risks and benefits of performing a prophylactic cholecystectomy. AIMS: To seek the best evidence in order to indicate prophylactic cholecystectomy or conservative treatment (clinical follow-up) in patients with asymptomatic cholelithiasis. METHODS: A systematic review was performed using the PubMed/Medline database, according to PRISMA protocol guidelines. The review was based on studies published between April 26, 2001 and January 07, 2022, related to individuals older than 18 years., The following terms/operators were used for search standardization: (asymptomatic OR silent) AND (gallstones OR cholelithiasis). RESULTS: We selected 18 studies eligible for inference production after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Also, the Tokyo Guideline (2018) was included for better clarification of some topics less or not addressed in these studies. CONCLUSIONS: Most evidence point to the safety and feasibility of conservative treatment (clinical follow-up) of asymptomatic cholelithiasis. However, in post-cardiac transplant patients and those with biliary microlithiasis with low preoperative surgical risk, a prophylactic cholecystectomy is recommended. To establish these recommendations, more studies with better levels of evidence must be conducted.

RESUMO RACIONAL: A colelitíase assintomática é uma doença altamente prevalente, e atualmente tornou-se mais evidente, após o maior acesso a exames de imagem. Portanto, é cada vez mais necessário analisar os riscos e benefícios de realizar uma colecistectomia profilática. OBJETIVOS: Buscar as melhores evidências para indicar colecistectomia profilática ou tratamento conservador (acompanhamento clínico) em pacientes com colelitíase assintomática. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada revisão sistemática, no PubMed/Medline, de acordo com as diretrizes do protocolo PRISMA, selecionando estudos publicados entre 26/04/2001 e 01/07/2022, relacionados a indivíduos maiores de 18 anos, com padronização de busca usando os seguintes termos/operadores: (Assintomático OU Silencioso) E (Cálculos biliares OU colelitíase). RESULTADOS: Foram selecionados 18 estudos elegíveis após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Além disso, a Tokyo Guideline (2018) foi incluída para melhor esclarecimento de alguns tópicos menos ou não abordados nestes estudos. CONCLUSÕES: A maioria das evidências aponta para a segurança e viabilidade do tratamento conservador (acompanhamento clínico) da colelitíase assintomática. Entretanto, em pacientes com transplante pós-cardíaco e aqueles com microlitíase biliar com baixo risco cirúrgico pré-operatório, a colecistectomia profilática é recomendada. Para estabelecer completamente estas recomendações, mais estudos com melhores níveis de evidência devem ser conduzidos.

The use of serum alkaline phosphatase as a choledocholithiasis marker to mitigate the cost of magnetic resonance cholangiography

ABSTRACT Objective To assess the predictive value of preoperative serum laboratory test results for identifying choledocholithiasis and reduce the use of cholangioresonance and its inherent costs. Methods Patients aged 21-69 years who underwent preoperative cholangioresonance examination at our institute were included. Patients with a history of fluctuating jaundice or biliary pancreatitis, bile duct dilatation on ultrasonography, and elevated levels of canalicular enzymes (alkaline phosphatase >100U/L and gamma-glutamyl transferase >50U/L) underwent cholangioresonance-guided surgery. Cases of choledocholithiasis confirmed by cholangioresonance were compared with those without choledocholithiasis. Serum laboratory data were evaluated and the diagnostic capabilities of these examinations were analyzed. Results A total of 104 patients were included. For detecting choledocholithiasis using alkaline phosphatase, the cut-off point was 78U/L, sensitivity was 97.6% (95%CI: 87.4-99.9), and specificity was 72.6% (95%CI: 59.8-83.1). In the binary logistic regression analysis, age (OR= 0.92; 95%CI: 0.86-0.98) and alkaline phosphatase level (OR= 1.02; 95%CI: 1.01-1.05) were selected for the final model. Conclusion Serum alkaline phosphatase levels may aid preoperative diagnosis of asymptomatic choledocholithiasis. After a global clinical assessment of the patient, serum laboratory findings may contribute to a reduction in cholangioresonance-related heathcare costs.

Robot-Assisted Common Bile Duct Exploration in Trinidad & Tobago.

Although laparoscopic common bile duct exploration is a feasible and safe option for the operative management of choledocholithiasis, there has been a general reluctance to perform this procedure in Caribbean practice. This is largely because duct exploration is perceived to be difficult with laparoscopic instruments, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has become increasingly available. We report a case in which stones were extracted laparoscopically from the common bile duct, aided by the FreeHand® (Freehand 2010 Ltd., Guildford, Surrey, UK) robot, to show that the procedure is feasible and safe in the Caribbean environment.

Management of biliary stones in bariatric surgery.

Morbidly obese and post-bariatric surgery patients are at increased risk for biliary stones formation. The complications related to biliary stones may impose complexity on their management. This study aimed to review the management of biliary conditions in obese and bariatric patients. In this study, a narrative review was performed of the medical, surgical, and endoscopic procedures for the management of biliary stones and their related complications. Knowing the main prophylactic and therapeutic interventions options is essential for clinicians to properly manage the biliary stones in patients candidates or submitted to bariatric surgery. Plain Language Summary: Management of biliary stones in bariatric surgery The complications related to biliary stones may impose complexity on their management. Knowing the main prophylactic and therapeutic intervention options is essential for clinicians to properly manage the biliary stones in patient candidates or submitted to bariatric surgery. This study reviewed the main tools clinicians can handle to properly manage candidates for bariatric surgery or patients submitted to bariatric surgery.

Risco pré-operatório de coledocolitíase em colecistectomiasem um hospital terciário de João Pessoa-PB / Preoperative risk of common bile duct stones in cholecystectomies at a tertiary hospital in João Pessoa-PB

Introdução: a colelitíase é uma das doenças mais comuns do trato digestivo, acometendo 6-10% da população adulta. Destes, aproximadamente 8- 20% apresentam coledocolitíase associada. A estratificação de risco de coledocolitíase pré-operatória nos portadores de colelitíase busca subsidiar a definição de uma terapêutica mais adequada, em tempo hábil, para cada caso. Objetivo:estratificar o risco pré-operatório de coledocolitíase em pacientes submetidos a colecistectomia em um hospital terciário. Metodologia:estudo observacional descritivo, retrospectivo, a partir da análise de prontuários de pacientes submetidos a colecistectomia por cálculos biliares em um hospital público em João Pessoa, Paraíba, entre agosto de 2021 e janeiro de 2022, durante a pandemia de COVID-19. A estratificação de risco foi realizada a partir do estabelecido pela Sociedade Americana de Endoscopia Digestiva (ASGE) em 2010. Resultados: foram selecionados 41 pacientes, a maior parte do sexo feminino, com média de idade de 49,6 anos, em sua maioria submetidos a colecistectomia videolaparoscópica, sem colangiografia intraoperatória. O exame de imagem mais realizado no pré-operatório foi a ultrassonografia de abdome. De acordo com os critérios da ASGE, 18 (43,9%) pacientes foram classificados como baixo risco, 19 (46,4%) foram estratificados no risco intermediário, e 4 foram de alto risco (9,7%). Conclusão: apesar de uma amostra de tamanho limitado, evidencia-se frequência relevante do risco alto ou intermediário de coledocolitíase em portadores de colelitíase. A estratificação de risco para coledocolitíase é uma ferramenta importante a ser utilizada de rotina no pré-operatório da colecistectomia nos pacientes com diagnóstico de colelitíase.

Introduction: gallstones are one of the most common diseases of the digestive tract, affecting 6-10% of the adult population. Of these, approximately 8-20% have associated choledocholithiasis. Preoperative risk stratification of choledocholithiasis in patients with cholelithiasis seeks to allow setting of a proper therapy, in a timely manner, for each case. Objective: stratify preoperative risk of choledocholithiasis in patients undergoing cholecystectomy in a tertiary hospital. Methods: descriptive, retrospective observational study, based on the analysis of medical records of patients undergoing cholecystectomy for gallstones in a public hospital in João Pessoa, Paraíba, between August 2021 and January 2022, during COVID-19 pandemic. Risk stratification was performed based on American Society for Digestive Endoscopy (ASGE) criteria from 2010. Results: 41 patients were evaluated. Most of them were female, with a mean age of 49.6 years, most of whom underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy without intraoperative cholangiography. The most common imaging performed preoperatively was abdominal ultrasound. According to ASGE criteria, 18 (43.9%) patients were classified as low risk, 19 (46.4%) were stratified into intermediate risk, and 4 scored high risk (9.7%). Conclusion: despite a limited sample size, there is a relevant prevalence of high or intermediate preoperative risk of choledocholithiasis in patients with cholelithiasis. Risk stratification for choledocholithiasis is an important tool to be routinely used in the preoperative period of cholecystectomy in patients with diagnosis of cholelithiasis.

Avaliação clínica-epidemiológica de complicações associadas à litíase biliar em um hospital terciário / Clinical and epidemiological evaluation of complications associated with gallstones in a tertiary hospital

ABSTRACT Background: Gallstones are the presence of bile clay in the gallbladder or bile ducts. The disease can be asymptomatic or symptomatic and can lead to complications and consequently a worse prognosis, such as acute cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis, cholangitis, and acute pancreatitis. The risk of complications increases after the first episode of biliary colic. Objective: A clinical-epidemiological evaluation of patients admitted to a gastroenterology ward of a tertiary care hospital with gallstone-related complications. Methods: We evaluated 158 patients admitted through discharge reports and medical records analysis from January 1, 2013, to February 24, 2021. Results: The female sex was predominant (76.6%), and the mean age of patients was 51.6 years. Men were significantly older than women (P=0.005). Most (57.6%) had some comorbidity, the most frequent being systemic arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity. The mean hospitalization time was 24 days, significantly longer in men (P=0.046) but without a direct relationship with age (P=0.414). The most frequent complication was choledocholithiasis, and 55.7% of patients without previous cholecystectomy had a report of biliary colic before admission, on average 1.5 years previously. A history of a prior cholecystectomy was present in 17.1% of those evaluated. Abdominal ultrasonography followed by magnetic resonance cholangiography was the most frequently performed exam for diagnostic definition. Regarding therapeutic measures, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was necessary for 47.3% of patients without previous cholecystectomy and 81.4% of patients who have already had a cholecystectomy. Among patients not yet cholecystectomized, 84% underwent the procedure before discharge. Conclusion: The female patients were predominant. Men were significantly older than women and had more extended hospital stays. The most frequent complication was choledocholithiasis, and around half of the patients reported previous biliary colic. endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography has been necessary for the majority of the patients.

RESUMO Contexto: A litíase biliar pode ser definida como a presença de cálculo ou barro biliar na vesícula e/ou nos ductos biliares. A doença pode ser assintomática ou sintomática, podendo levar a complicações e, consequentemente, a um pior prognóstico, como colecistite aguda, coledocolitíase, colangite e pancreatite aguda. O risco de complicações aumenta após o primeiro episódio de cólica biliar. Objetivo: Avaliação clínica-epidemiológica dos pacientes internados em enfermaria de gastroenterologia de um hospital terciário, com complicações relacionadas à litíase biliar. Métodos: Foram avaliados 158 pacientes internados no período de 1º de janeiro de 2013 a 24 de fevereiro de 2021, por meio de análise de relatório de alta e prontuário. Resultados: Houve uma predominância do sexo feminino (76,6%), e a média de idade dos pacientes foi de 51,6 anos. Homens eram significativamente mais velhos que as mulheres (P=0,005). A maioria (57,6%) apresentava alguma comorbidade, sendo as mais frequentes: hipertensão arterial sistêmica, diabetes mellitus e obesidade. A média de tempo de internação foi de 24 dias, sendo significativamente maior para os homens (P=0,046), mas sem relação direta com a idade (P=0,414). A complicação mais frequente foi a coledocolitíase, e 55,7% dos pacientes sem colecistectomia prévia apresentaram relato de cólica biliar antes da internação, em média, 1,5 anos antes. Histórico de colecistectomia prévia estava presente em 17,1% dos avaliados. Ultrassonografia abdominal, seguida de colangiorressonância magnética foram os exames complementares mais frequentemente realizados para definição diagnóstica. Em relação às medidas terapêuticas, a colangiopancreatografia endoscópica retrógrada (CPRE) foi necessária em 47,3% dos pacientes sem colecistectomia prévia e 81,4% dos pacientes com colecistectomia prévia. Dos pacientes ainda não colecistectomizados, 84% deles puderam ser submetidos ao procedimento antes da alta. Conclusão: Houve predomínio do sexo feminino. Os homens foram significativamente mais velhos do que as mulheres e tiveram uma permanência hospitalar consideravelmente mais longa. A complicação mais frequente foi a coledocolitíase, e cerca de metade dos pacientes relatou cólica biliar prévia. A CPRE foi necessária para a maioria dos pacientes.

Síndrome de Bouveret como variante de íleo biliar / Bouveret syndrome as a variant of gallstone ileus

Introducción. El síndrome de Bouveret es una variante del íleo biliar, de rara presentación dentro de las causas de obstrucción intestinal, generada por la impactación de un lito biliar a nivel del duodeno, secundario a la formación de una fístula bilioentérica. Es más común en mujeres en la octava década de la vida, con múltiples comorbilidades. y presenta síntomas inespecíficos, documentándose la triada de Rigler hasta en el 80 % de las tomografías de abdomen. La cirugía sigue siendo el tratamiento de elección. Caso clínico. Presentamos el caso de una paciente de 76 años, con múltiples antecedentes y cuadros previos de cólico biliar, que consultó por dolor abdominal y signos de hemorragia de vías digestivas altas y se documentó un síndrome de Bouveret. Fue tratada en la misma hospitalización mediante extracción quirúrgica del cálculo con posterior resolución de su sintomatología.Conclusión. A pesar de que el síndrome deBouveret es una entidad de infrecuente presentación, los cirujanos generalesdeben estar familiarizados con esta patología, en el contexto del paciente que consulta con un cuadro de obstrucción intestinal, conociendo el valor de la tomografía de abdomen y la endoscopia de vías digestivas altas, teniendo en cuenta la edad y las condiciones del paciente para definir el manejo quirúrgico más adecuado.

Introduction. Bouveret's syndrome is a variant of gallstone ileus, of rare presentation within the causes of intestinal obstruction, generated by the impaction of a biliary stone at the level of the duodenum, secondary to the formation of a biliary-enteric fistula. It is more common in women in the eighth decade of life, with multiple comorbidities, and presents non-specific symptoms, with Rigler's triad being documented in up to 80% of abdominal CT scans. Surgery remains the treatment of choice. Clinical case. We present the case of a 76-year-old patient, with history of multiple episodes of biliary colic, who consulted for abdominal pain and signs of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Bouveret's syndrome was documented. She was treated in the same hospitalization by surgical extraction of the stone with subsequent resolution of her symptoms. Conclussion. Although Bouveret's syndrome is an entity of infrequent presentation, general surgeons must be familiar with this pathology in the context of the patient who presents with intestinal obstruction, knowing the value of abdominal tomography and upper GI endoscopy, taking into account the age and conditions of the patient to define the most appropriate surgical management.

Incidencia de litiasis vesicular asintomática en pacientes con complicaciones biliares / Incidence of asymptomatic gallstones in patients with biliary complications / Incidência de cálculos biliares asintomáticos em pacientes com complicações biliares

Introducción: Las complicaciones de la litiasis biliar (LB) son una causa importante de morbilidad en nuestro país y en el mundo entero y generan elevados costos en salud. Objetivo: El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar, que pacientes con una complicación de su patología litiásica de la vía biliar (colecistitis, colangitis aguda, pancreatitis aguda), fueron previamente asintomáticos, resultando dicha complicación el debut de la enfermedad. Lugar: Sanatorio Asociación Española de Socorros Mutuos, Montevideo Uruguay. Diseño: Estudio observacional descriptivo, retrospectivo, análisis de historias clínicas. Materiales y Métodos: Se analizaron 234 casos clínicos. Se constató en este grupo de pacientes, características epidemiológicas, metodología diagnóstica, tratamientos recibidos y complicaciones. Resultados: Del total de pacientes (n=234), 109 (46.6%) tenían una litiasis vesicular asintomática (LVA) y la complicación biliar, fue el debut de su enfermedad. La colecistitis aguda fue la complicación más frecuente (68%), en segundo lugar, la colangitis aguda (22%) y en tercer lugar la pancreatitis aguda (10%). La edad promedio de presentación de la enfermedad fue los 59 años. Conclusiones: Casi la mitad de los pacientes (46.6%) que presentaron una complicación de su litiasis biliar eran asintomáticos. Este sería un argumento importante para indicar la colecistectomía laparoscópica con un criterio profiláctico en pacientes con una LVA.

Introduction : Complications of gallstones are an important cause of morbidity in our country and throughout the world and generate high health costs. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine which patients with a complication of their bile duct stone pathology (cholecystitis, acute cholangitis, acute pancreatitis) were previously asymptomatic, and this complication resulted in the onset of the disease. Place: Sanatorium Asociación Española de Socorros Mutuos, Montevideo Uruguay. Design: Descriptive and retrospective observational study with an analysis of medical records. Materials and Methods: 234 clinical cases were analyzed. Epidemiological characteristics, diagnostic methodology, treatments received, and complications were assessed in this group of patients. Results: Of the total number of patients (n=234), 109 (46.6%) had an asymptomatic gallbladder lithiasis and the biliary complication was the debut of their disease. Acute cholecystitis was the most frequent complication (68%), followed by acute cholangitis (22%) and third by acute pancreatitis (10%). The average age of presentation of the disease was 59 years. Conclusions: Almost half of the patients (46.6%) who presented a complication of their gallstones were asymptomatic. This would be an important argument to indicate laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a prophylactic criterion in patients with asymptomatic gallbladder lithiasis.

Introdução: As complicações dos cálculos biliares são uma importante causa de morbidade em nosso país e em todo o mundo e geram altos custos de saúde. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar quais pacientes com uma complicação de sua patologia de cálculo do ducto biliar (colecistite, colangite aguda, pancreatite aguda) eram previamente assintomáticos, e essa complicação resultou no aparecimento da doença. Local: Sanatório Asociación Española de Socorros Mutuos, Montevidéu - Uruguai. Desenho: Estudo observacional descritivo, retrospectivo, análise de histórias clínicas. Materiais e Métodos: Foram analisados ​​234 casos clínicos. Características epidemiológicas, metodologia diagnóstica, tratamentos recebidos e complicações foram avaliadas neste grupo de pacientes. Resultados: Do total de pacientes (n=234), 109 (46,6%) apresentavam litíase vesicular assintomática e a complicação biliar foi o início da doença. A colecistite aguda foi a complicação mais frequente (68%), seguida da colangite aguda (22%) e a terceira da pancreatite aguda (10%). A idade média de apresentação da doença foi de 59 anos. Conclusões: Quase metade dos pacientes (46,6%) que apresentaram complicação de seus cálculos biliares eram assintomáticos. Esse seria um argumento importante para indicar a colecistectomia laparoscópica com critério profilático em pacientes com litíase vesicular assintomática.

Incidental gallbladder cancer: what is the prevalence and how do we perform cholecystectomy for presumably benign biliary disease? / Câncer incidental de vesícula biliar: qual a prevalência e como operamos a colecistectomia por doença presumidamente benigna?

ABSTRACT Objective: to determine the prevalence of incidental gallbladder cancer (IGBC) in cholecystectomies performed in a tertiary public hospital and to describe technical and epidemiological aspects of performing cholecystectomies for presumably benign disease. Method: descriptive, retrospective observational study, based on analysis of medical records of patients undergoing cholecystectomy with preoperative hypothesis of benign disease between January 2018 and January 2022. Results: prevalence of gallbladder adenocarcinoma in our sample was 0.16%, similar to data in the literature. Technical aspects during cholecystectomy were also described with a frequency similar to that found in the literature. Conclusion: despite a rare disease, IGBC is relevant in the routine of the General Surgeon. Its diagnosis, staging and treatment directly affect the prognosis. Technical aspects during cholecystectomy are not always remembered by surgeons and can interfere with the prognosis and subsequent treatment of the patient.

RESUMO Objetivos: determinar a prevalência de câncer incidental de vesícula biliar (CIVB) em colecistectomias realizadas em um hospital público terciário e descrever aspectos técnicos e epidemiológicos na realização de colecistectomias por doença presumidamente benigna. Método: estudo observacional descritivo, retrospectivo, a partir da análise de prontuários de pacientes submetidos à colecistectomia com hipótese pré-operatória de doença benigna entre janeiro de 2018 e janeiro de 2022. Resultados: a prevalência de adenocarcinoma de vesícula biliar na amostra avaliada foi de 0,16%, semelhante aos dados da literatura mundial. Os aspectos técnicos durante a realização da colecistectomia também foram descritos com frequência semelhante ao encontrado na literatura. Conclusão: o CIVB é uma doença rara mas de importância relevante na rotina do Cirurgião Geral. Seu diagnóstico, estadiamento e tratamento implicam diretamente no prognóstico. Aspectos técnicos durante a realização da colecistectomia nem sempre são lembrados pelos cirurgiões e podem interferir no prognóstico e tratamento subsequente do paciente.

A population study on gender and ethnicity differences in gallbladder disease in brazil / Estudo populacional sobre as diferenças de gênero e etnia na doença da vesícula biliar no brasil

ABSTRACT - BACKGROUND: Gallbladder diseases (GBD) are one of the most common medical conditions requiring surgical intervention, both electively and urgently. It is widely accepted that sex and ethnic characteristics mighty influence both prevalence and outcomes. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the differences on distributions of gender and ethnicity related to the epidemiology of GBD in the Brazilian public health system. METHODS: DATASUS was used to retrieve patients' data recorded under the International Code of Diseases (ICD-10) - code K80 from January 2008 to December 2019. The number of admissions, modality of care, number of deaths, and in-hospital mortality rate were analyzed by gender and ethnic groups. RESULTS: Between 2008 and 2019, a total of 2,899,712 patients with cholelithiasis/cholecystitis (K80) were admitted to the hospitals of the Brazilian Unified Health System, of whom only 22.7% were males. Yet, the in-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher in males (15.9 per 1,000 male patients) than females (6.3 per 1,000 female patients) (p<0.05). Moreover, men presented a significantly higher risk of death (RR=2.5; p<0.05) and longer hospital stay (4.4 days vs. 3.3 days; p<0.05) than females. Compared to females, men presented a higher risk of death across all self-declared ethnic groups: whites (RR=2.4; p<0.05), blacks (RR=2.7; p<0.05), browns (RR=2.6; p<0.05), and Brazilian Indians (RR=2.13; p<0.05). CONCLUSION: In the years 2008-2019, women presented the highest prevalence of hospital admissions for GBD in Brazil, and men were associated with worse outcomes, including all ethnic groups.

RESUMO - RACIONAL: Doenças da vesícula biliar (DVB) são uma das condições médicas mais comuns que requerem intervenção cirúrgica, tanto eletiva como urgente. É amplamente aceito que o sexo e as características étnicas podem influenciar a prevalência e os desfechos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as diferenças nas distribuições de gênero e etnia relacionados à epidemiologia da DVB no sistema público de saúde brasileiro. MÉTODOS: O DATASUS foi usado para elencar os dados de pacientes registrados no Código Internacional de Doenças (CID-10) sob o código K80, de janeiro de 2008 a dezembro de 2019. O número de admissões, caráter de atendimento, número de óbitos e taxa de mortalidade hospitalar foram analisados por gênero e por etnia. RESULTADO: Entre 2008 e 2019, 2.899.712 pacientes com colelitíase/colecistite (K80) foram admitidos em hospitais do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), dos quais apenas 22,7% eram do sexo masculino. Ainda assim, a taxa de mortalidade intra-hospitalar masculina (15,9:1.000 pacientes homens) foi significativamente maior do que a feminina (6,3:1.000 pacientes mulheres) (p<0,05). Ademais, homens apresentaram risco de morte significativamente maior em comparação às mulheres (RR=2,5; p<0,05) e maior tempo de internação hospitalar (4,4 dias versus 3,3 dias; p<0,05). Em comparação ao sexo feminino, homens apresentaram maior risco de morte em todos os grupos étnicos autodeclarados: brancos (RR=2,4; p<0,05), negros (RR=2,7; p<0,05), pardos (RR=2,6; p<0,05) e indígena (RR=2,13; p<0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Nos anos de 2008-2019, as mulheres apresentaram as maiores prevalências de internações hospitalares por DVB no Brasil, porém, os homens foram associados a piores desfechos, inclusive entre todos os grupos étnicos.