Prospective validation of a preoperative scoring system for difficult laparoscopy cholecystectomy.

Difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is defined by its surgical outcomes, including operative time, conversion to open surgery, bile duct and/or vascular injury. Difficult LC can be graded based on intraoperative findings. The main objective of this study is to apply and validate the reliability of their proposed risk score to predict the operative difficulty of an LC, based on their own validated intraoperative scale. Single-center prospective cohort study from 01/2020-12-2023. 367 patients > 18 years who underwent LC were included. The preoperative risk scale and intraoperative grading system were registered. Surgical outcomes were determined. Predictive accuracy was evaluated by the Receiver Operator Characteristic curve, sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values, and Youden's Index (J). Patients' mean age was 44.1 ± 15.3 years. According to the risk score, 39.5% LC were "low" risk difficulty, 49.3% were "medium" risk, and 11.2% were "high" risk difficult LC. Based on the intraoperative grading system, 31.9% were difficult LC (Nassar grades 3-4) and 68.1% were easy LC (Nassar grades 1-2). There was a statistically significant correlation (0.428, p < 0.05) between the preoperative risk score and the intraoperative grading system. The AUC for the preoperative risk score scale and intraoperative difficult LC was 0.735 (95% CI 0.687-0.779) (J: 0.34). A preoperative risk score > 1.5 had an 83.7% sensitivity and a 50.8% specificity for intraoperative difficult LC. A predictive preoperative score for difficult LC and a routine collection of the intraoperative difficulty should be implemented to improve surgical outcomes and surgical planning.

Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy in acute mild gallstone pancreatitis. Is there a role for routine admission contrast-enhanced CT Scan?

PURPOSE: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of admission contrast-enhanced CT scans in formulating strategies for performing early laparoscopic cholecystectomy in cases of acute gallstone pancreatitis. METHODS: Patients diagnosed with acute gallstone pancreatitis underwent a CT scan upon admission (after at least 24 h from symptom onset) to confirm diagnosis and assess peripancreatic fluid, collections, gallstones, and common bile duct stones. Patients with mild acute gallstone pancreatitis, following the Atlanta classification and Baltazar score A or B, were identified as candidates for early cholecystectomy (within 72 h of admission). RESULTS: Within the analyzed period, 272 patients were diagnosed with mild acute gallstone pancreatitis according to the Atlanta Guidelines. A total of 33 patients (12.1%) were excluded: 17 (6.25%) due to SIRS, 10 (3.6%) due to local complications identified in CT (Balthazar D/E), and 6 (2.2%) due to severe comorbidities. Enhanced CT scans accurately detected gallstones, common bile duct stones, pancreatic enlargement, inflammation, pancreatic collections, and peripancreatic fluid. Among the cohort, 239 patients were selected for early laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Routine intraoperative cholangiogram was conducted in all cases, and where choledocholithiasis was present, successful treatment occurred through common bile duct exploration. Only one case required conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery. There were no observed severe complications or mortality. CONCLUSION: Admission CT scans are instrumental in identifying clinically stable patients with local tomographic complications that contraindicate early surgery. Patients meeting the criteria for mild acute gallstone pancreatitis, as per Atlanta guidelines, without SIRS or local complications (Baltazar D/E), can safely undergo early cholecystectomy within the initial 72 h of admission.

Postcholecystectomy Duodenal Injuries, Their Management, and Review of the Literature.

Backgrounds: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the gold standard for treating gallstones; however, it is not free of complications. Postcholecystectomy duodenal injuries are rare but challenging complications after cholecystectomy. The objective of this study was to analyze the management of postcholecystectomy duodenal injuries and to review the related literature. Materials and methods: An observational and retrospective study was conducted. We included all patients with postcholecystectomy duodenal injuries treated at a reference center, from January 2019 to December 2023. In addition, a review of the literature was carried out. Results: Fifteen patients were found, mostly women; with gallbladder wall thickening on ultrasound (mean of 8 mm). The majority were emergency (n = 12, 80%) and LCs (n = 8, 53.33%). Cholecystectomies were reported to be associated with excessive difficulty (n = 10, 66.66%). The most injured duodenal portion was the first portion (n = 9, 60%), and blunt dissection was the most common mechanism of injury (n = 7, 46.66%). Most of these injuries were detected in the operating room (n = 9, 60%), and treated with primary closure (n = 11, 73.33%). Three patients with delayed injuries died (20%). According to the literature reviewed, 93 duodenal injuries were found, mostly detected intraoperatively, in the second portion, and treated with primary closure. A minority of patients were treated with more complex procedures, for a mortality rate of 15.38%. Conclusion: Postcholecystectomy duodenal injuries are rare. Most of these injuries are detected and repaired intraoperatively. However, a high percentage of patients have high morbidity and mortality. How to cite this article: Diaz-Martinez J, Pérez-Correa N. Postcholecystectomy Duodenal Injuries, Their Management, and Review of the Literature. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2024;14(1):44-50.

Robotic-assisted cholecystectomy versus conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy for benign gallbladder disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the established gold standard treatment for benign gallbladder diseases. However, robotic cholecystectomy is still controversial. Therefore, we aimed to compare intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in LC and robotic-assisted cholecystectomy (RAC) in patients with nonmalignant gallbladder conditions. PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched for studies comparing RAC to LC in patients with benign gallbladder disease. Only randomized trials and non-randomized studies with propensity score matching were included. Mean differences (MDs) were computed for continuous outcomes and odds ratios (ORs) for binary endpoints, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistics. Statistical analysis was performed using Software R, version 4.2.3. A total of 13 studies comprising 22,440 patients were included, of whom 10,758 patients (47.94%) underwent RAC. The mean age was 48.5 years and 65.2% were female. Compared with LC, RAC significantly increased operative time (MD 12.59 min; 95% CI 5.62-19.55; p < 0.01; I2 = 79%). However, there were no significant differences between the groups in hospitalization time (MD -0.18 days; 95% CI - 0.43-0.07; p = 0.07; I2 = 89%), occurrence of intraoperative complications (OR 0.66; 95% CI 0.38-1.15; p = 0.14; I2 = 35%) and bile duct injury (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.64, 1.55; p = 0.97; I2 = 0%). RAC was associated with an increase in operative time compared with LC without increasing hospitalization time or the incidence of intraoperative complications. These findings suggest that RAC is a safe approach to benign gallbladder disease.

Comparison of laparoscopic-guided versus ultrasound-guided TAP block in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a widely used anesthetic technique of the abdominal wall, where ultrasound guidance is considered the gold standard. In this study, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of laparoscopic-assisted TAP (LTAP) block with ultrasound-assisted TAP (UTAP) block for post-operative pain, nausea, vomiting, duration of the block, and bowel function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 60 patients who were randomly assigned to two groups to undergo either the LTAP or UTAP block technique after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The time taken for administering the block, post-operative nausea and vomiting, post-operative pain, respiratory rate, bowel movements, and analgesia requirements were reported. RESULTS: The time taken for the LTAP block was shorter (p < 0.001). Post-operative mean tramadol consumption, paracetamol consumption, and analgesic requirement were comparable between the two groups (p = 0.76, p = 0.513, and p = 0.26, respectively). The visual analog scale at 6, 24, and 48 h was statistically not significant (p = 0.632, p = 0.802, and p = 0.173, respectively). Nausea with vomiting and the necessity of an antiemetic medication was lower in the UTAP group (p = 0.004 and p = 0.009, respectively). CONCLUSION: The LTAP block is an easy and fast technique to perform in patients as an alternative method where ultrasound guidance or an anesthesiologist is not available.

ANTECEDENTES: El bloqueo del plano transverso del abdomen (TAP) es una técnica anestésica de la pared abdominal ampliamente utilizada, en la cual la guía ecográfica se considera el método de referencia. OBJETIVO: Comparar la efectividad del bloqueo TAP asistido por laparoscopia (LTAP) con el bloqueo TAP asistido por ultrasonido (UTAP) para el dolor posoperatorio, las náuseas y los vómitos, y la función intestinal. MÉTODO: El estudio incluyó 60 pacientes que fueron asignados aleatoriamente a dos grupos para someterse a la técnica de bloqueo LTAP o UTAP después de una colecistectomía laparoscópica. Se informaron el tiempo de administración del bloqueo, las náuseas y los vómitos posoperatorios, el dolor posoperatorio, la frecuencia respiratoria, las evacuaciones y los requerimientos de analgesia. RESULTADOS: El tiempo de bloqueo LTAP fue menor (p < 0.001). El consumo medio de tramadol, el consumo de paracetamol y el requerimiento de analgésicos posoperatorios fueron comparables entre los dos grupos (p = 0.76, p = 0.513 y p = 0.26, respectivamente). El dolor en la escala analógica visual a las 6, 24 y 48 horas no fue estadísticamente significativo (p = 0.632, p = 0.802 y p = 0.173, respectivamente). CONCLUSIONES: El bloqueo PATL es una técnica fácil y rápida de realizar en pacientes como método alternativo cuando no se dispone de guía ecográfica o anestesióloga.

Erector spinae plane block as a rescue therapy in following cholecystectomy: a historical cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of erector spinae plane block (ESPB) as a rescue therapy in the recovery room. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This single-center historical cohort study included patients who received either ESPB or intravenous meperidine for pain management in the recovery room. Patients' numeric rating scale (NRS) scores and opoid consumptions were evaluated. RESULTS: One hundred and eight patients were included in the statistical analysis. Sixty-two (57%) patients received ESPB postoperatively (pESPB) and 46 (43%) patients were managed with IV meperidine boluses only (IV). The cumulative meperidine doses administered were 0 (0-40) and 30 (10-80) mg for the pESPB and IV groups, respectively (p < 0.001). NRS scores of group pESPB were significantly lower than those of Group IV on T30 and T60. CONCLUSION: ESPB reduces the frequency of opioid administration and the amount of opioids administered in the early post-operative period. When post-operative rescue therapy is required, it should be considered before opioids.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el efecto del bloqueo del plano erector espinal (ESPB) como terapia de rescate en la sala de recuperación. MÉTODO: Este estudio de cohortes histórico de un solo centro incluyó a pacientes que recibieron ESPB o meperidina intravenosa para el tratamiento del dolor en la sala de recuperación. Se evaluaron las puntuaciones de la escala de calificación numérica (NRS) de los pacientes y los consumos de opiáceos. RESULTADOS: En el análisis estadístico se incluyeron 108 pacientes. Recibieron ESPB 62 (57%) pacientes y los otros 46 (43%) fueron manejados solo con bolos de meperidina intravenosa. Las dosis acumuladas de meperidina administradas fueron 0 (0-40) y 30 (10-80) mg para los grupos de ESPB y de meperidina sola, respectivamente (p < 0.001). Las puntuaciones de dolor del grupo ESPB fueron significativamente más bajas que las del grupo de meperidina sola en T30 y T60. CONCLUSIONES: El ESPB reduce la frecuencia de administración de opiáceos y la cantidad de estos administrada en el posoperatorio temprano. Cuando se requiera terapia de rescate posoperatoria, se debe considerar antes que los opiáceos.

Pre-incisional local infiltration with levobupivacaine in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized and clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), despite its minimally invasive nature, requires effective control of post-operative pain. The use of local anesthetics (LA) has been studied, but the level of evidence is low, and there is little information on important parameters such as health-related quality of life (HRQoL) or return to work. The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of 0.50% levobupivacaine infiltration of incisional sites in reducing POP after LC. METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind study. Patients undergoing elective LC were randomized into two groups: no infiltration (control group) and port infiltration (intervention group). POP intensity (numerical rating scale, NRS), need for rescue with opioid drugs, PONV incidence, HRQoL, and return to work data, among others, were studied. RESULTS: Two hundred and twelve patients were randomized and analyzed: 105 (control group) and 107 (intervention group). A significant difference was observed in the NRS values (control group mean NRS score: 3.41 ± 1.82 vs. 2.56 ± 1.96) (p < 0.05) and in the incidence of PONV (31.4% vs. 19.6%) (p = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS: Levobupivacaine infiltration is safe and effective in reducing POP, although this does not lead to a shorter hospital stay and does not influence HRQoL, return to work, or overall patient satisfaction.

OBJETIVO: la colecistectomía laparoscópica (CL), a pesar de su carácter mínimamente invasivo, requiere un control efectivo del dolor postoperatorio (POP). El uso de anestésicos locales (AL) ha sido estudiado pero el nivel de evidencia es bajo y existe poca información acerca de parámetros relevantes como la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) o la reincorporación laboral. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la eficacia de la infiltración de los sitios incisionales con levobupivacaína 0,50% en la reducción del dolor postoperatorio tras la CL. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio prospectivo, aleatorizado y doble ciego. Pacientes sometidos a CL programada fueron aleatorizados en dos grupos: sin infiltración (grupo control) y con infiltración preincisional (grupo intervención). La intensidad del dolor (escala de puntuación numérica, NRS), la necesidad de rescates con opioides, la incidencia de náuseas o vómitos postoperatorios (NVPO) y datos de CVRS o reincorporación laboral, entre otros, fueron recogidos. RESULTADOS: 212 pacientes fueron aleatorizados y analizados: 105 en el grupo control y 107 en el grupo de intervención. Se observó una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la intensidad del dolor (puntuación media NRS: 3.41 ± 1.82 vs. 2.56 ± 1.96) (p < 0.05) y en la incidencia de NVPO (31.4% vs. 19.6%) (p = 0.049). CONCLUSIONES: La infiltración con levobupivacaína es segura y efectiva en la reducción del dolor postoperatorio, aunque esto no conlleva una menor estancia hospitalaria y no influye en los resultados de CVRS, reincorporación laboral o satisfacción del paciente.

A novel comparison of erector spinae plane block and paravertebral block in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Erector spinae plane block is an updated method than paravertebral block, possessing a lower risk of complications. This study aimed to compare erector spinae plane and paravertebral blocks to safely reach the most efficacious analgesia procedure in laparoscopic cholecystectomy cases. METHODS: The study included 90 cases, aged 18-70 years, classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists I-II, who underwent an laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedure. They were randomly separated into three groups, namely, Control, erector spinae plane, and paravertebral block. No block procedure was applied to Control, and a patient-controlled analgesia device was prepared containing tramadol at a 10 mg bolus dose and a 10-min locked period. The pain scores were recorded with a visual analog scale for 24 h postoperatively. RESULTS: The visual analog scale values at 1, 5, 10, 20, and 60 min at rest and 60 min coughing were found to be significantly higher in Control than in paravertebral block. A significant difference was revealed between Control vs. paravertebral block and paravertebral block vs. erector spinae plane in terms of total tramadol consumption (p=0.006). Total tramadol consumption in the first postoperative 24 h was significantly reduced in the paravertebral block compared with the Control and erector spinae plane groups. CONCLUSION: Sonography-guided-paravertebral block provides sufficient postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery. Erector spinae plane seems to attenuate total tramadol consumption.

Modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: A new block, namely, modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach, is administered below the costal cartilage. We sought to compare the analgesic efficacy of the modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach block with local anesthetic infiltration at the port sites in an adult population who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. METHODS: Patients who will undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized to receive bilateral ultrasound-guided modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach blocks or local anesthetic infiltration at the port insertion sites. The primary outcome was the total amount of tramadol used in the first 12 h postoperatively. The secondary outcomes were total IV tramadol consumption for the first postoperative 24 h and visual analog scale scores. RESULTS: The modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach group had significantly less tramadol use in the first 12 h postoperatively (p<0.001). The modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach group's visual analog scale scores at rest (static) and with movement (dynamic) were significantly lower compared with the port infiltration group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Patients who received modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach block had significantly less analgesic consumption and better pain scores than those who received port-site injections after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Lidocaína en infusión transoperatoria para control de dolor: un estudio aleatorizado / Intraoperative intravenous lidocaine pain control: a randomized study

Resumen: Introducción: contar con una analgesia efectiva en el postoperatorio es fundamental para evitar complicaciones asociadas a dolor, en pacientes sometidos a colecistectomía laparoscópica. Objetivos: evaluar la efectividad de la lidocaína en infusión transoperatoria para el control de dolor postoperatorio en pacientes sometidos a colecistectomía laparoscópica. Material y métodos: se realizó un estudio experimental, aleatorizado, ciego simple, en pacientes sometidos a colecistectomía laparoscópica en el Hospital General Regional No. 1 en Obregón. Se dividieron en dos grupos de forma aleatoria, al grupo L se le aplicó lidocaína 1.5 mg/k en infusión, al grupo P se le aplicó placebo. Se realizó un análisis estadístico en SPSS v. 22 y se consideró significativa una p < 0.05. Resultados: se observó un adecuado manejo del dolor en los pacientes del grupo L a su ingreso a la Unidad de Recuperación Postanestésica (URPA) (p = 0.002), menor consumo de fentanyl transoperatorio sin diferencia estadística contra placebo (p = 0.086), menor uso de analgesia de rescate postquirúrgica (p = 0.045). Conclusiones: la infusión de lidocaína es efectiva para el manejo del dolor postquirúrgico inmediato, así como disminución de consumo de opioides y dosis de rescate analgésico, con una baja incidencia de náuseas y vómito, pero se asoció a hipotensión transoperatoria.

Abstract: Introduction: having an effective analgesia in the postoperative period is essential to avoid complications associated with pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Objectives: test the effectiveness of intravenous lidocaine for postoperative pain in cholecystectomized patients by laparoscopy. Material and methods: an experimental, randomized, single-blind study was carried out in patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy at the No. 1 Regional General Hospital in Obregon, Sonora. They were divided into two groups randomly: group L to whom we applied lidocaine 1.5 mg/k in infusion and group P to whom placebo was applied. A statistical analysis was performed in SPSS v. 22 and a p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: adequate pain management was observed in patients of group L upon admission to PACU (p = 0.002), lower consumption of transoperative fentanyl without statistical difference against placebo (p = 0.086), lower use of post-surgical rescue analgesia (p = 0.045), but higher incidence of adverse effects such as hypotension and bradycardia (p = 0.024). Conclusions: the infusion of lidocaine is effective for the management of immediate postsurgical pain; as well it decreases opioid consumption and analgesic rescue dose, with a low incidence of nausea and vomiting, but associated with hypotension after surgery.

The effects of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) application on optic nerve sheath diameter in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized trial

Abstract Background: Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) can overcome respiratory changes that occur during pneumoperitoneum application in laparoscopic procedures, but it can also increase intracranial pressure. We investigated PEEP vs. no PEEP application on ultrasound measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter (indirect measure of increased intracranial pressure) in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: Eighty ASA I-II patients aged between 18 and 60 years scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included. The study was registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials (ACTRN12618000771257). Patients were randomly divided into either Group C (control, PEEP not applied), or Group P (PEEP applied at 10 cmH20). Optic nerve sheath diameter, hemodynamic, and respiratory parameters were recorded at six different time points. Ocular ultrasonography was used to measure optic nerve sheath diameter. Results: Peak pressure (PPeak) values were significantly higher in Group P after application of PEEP (p = 0.012). Mean respiratory rate was higher in Group C at all time points after application of pneumoperitoneum (p < 0.05). The mean values of optic nerve sheath diameters measured at all time points were similar between the groups (p > 0.05). The pulmonary dynamic compliance value was significantly higher in group P as long as PEEP was applied (p = 0.001). Conclusions: During laparoscopic cholecystectomy, application of 10 cmH2O PEEP did not induce a significant change in optic nerve sheath diameter (indirect indicator of intracranial pressure) compared to no PEEP application. It would appear that PEEP can be used safely to correct

Gallbladder stones during pregnancy: are we doing the right thing in Mexico?

OBJECTIVE: To present the treatment of choice and approach in pregnant and postpartum women with a diagnosis of gallstones in Mexico and to compare it with the recommendations of international guidelines. METHOD: Observational, descriptive, and retrospective study based on information from the 2019 Dynamic Cubes database of pregnant women diagnosed with cholecystitis and/or cholelithiasis who had undergone cholecystectomy. RESULTS: During 2019, 937 patients with cholelithiasis and cholecystitis were registered, 516 (55%) pregnant and 421 (45%) in puerperium. 91.47% of cases were managed with medical treatment and 8.53% with cholecystectomy, with predominance in the open approach in 63.75% of cases. Mortality was nil in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Despite current international guidelines recommending early laparoscopic cholecystectomy in pregnant or puerperal women, in Mexico medical treatment, delayed cholecystectomy and its open approach are still privileged.

OBJETIVO: Determinar el tratamiento de elección, el abordaje y la mortalidad en mujeres embarazadas y en puerperio con diagnóstico de litiasis vesicular en México, y compararlo con las recomendaciones de las guías internacionales. MÉTODO: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo basado en la información de la base de datos Cubos Dinámicos del año 2019 de mujeres embarazadas con diagnóstico de colecistitis o colelitiasis que se hubieran realizado colecistectomía. RESULTADOS: En 2019 se registraron 937 pacientes con colelitiasis y colecistitis, 516 (55%) embarazadas y 421 (45%) en puerperio. El 91.47% de los casos se manejaron con tratamiento médico y el 8.53% con colecistectomía, con predominio del abordaje abierto en el 63.75% de los casos. La mortalidad fue nula en ambos grupos. CONCLUSIONES: A pesar de que las guías internacionales actuales recomiendan la colecistectomía laparoscópica temprana en embarazadas y puérperas, en México todavía se privilegian el tratamiento médico, el retraso de la colecistectomía y su abordaje abierto.

Risk Factors and Prevalence Associated With Conversion of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy to Open Cholecystectomy: A Tertiary Care Hospital Experience in Western Mexico.

Introduction Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is a common procedure used for the treatment of different pathologies caused by gallstones in the gallbladder, and one of the most common indications is acute cholecystitis. The definitive treatment for acute cholecystitis is surgery, and LC is the gold standard. Nevertheless, transoperative complications (like intraoperative bleeding, anatomical abnormalities of the gallbladder, etc.) of LC and some other preoperative factors (like dilatation of bile duct, increased gallbladder wall thickness, etc.) can cause or be a risk factor for conversion to open cholecystectomy (OC). The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors and prevalence associated with the conversion from LC to OC in patients with gallbladder pathology and the indication for LC. Materials and methods This was a prospective cohort study. We included patients of both sexes over 18 years of age with gallbladder disease. To determine the risk factors associated with conversion, we performed a bivariate analysis and then a multivariate analysis. Results The rate of conversion to OC was 4.54%. The preoperative factors associated with conversion, in the bivariate analysis, were common bile duct dilatation (p=0.008), emergency surgery (p=0.014), and smoking (p=0.001); the associated intraoperative variables were: laparoscopic surgery duration (p <0.0001), Calot triangle edema (p=0.033), incapacity to hold the gallbladder with atraumatic laparoscopic tweezers (p=0.036), and choledocholithiasis (p=0.042). Laparoscopic Surgery duration was the only factor with a significant association in the multivariate analysis (p=0.0036); we performed a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and found a cut-off point of 120 minutes for the duration of laparoscopic surgery with a sensitivity and a specificity of 67 and 88%, respectively. Conclusion The prevalence of conversion from LC to OC is similar to that reported in the international literature. The risk factors associated with conversion to OC, in this study, should be confirmed in future clinical studies, in this same population, with a larger sample size.

Factores asociados con la conversión a técnica abierta en la colecistectomía laparoscópica / Factors associated with conversion to open technique in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Introducción. La colecistectomía laparoscópica es el estándar de oro para el manejo de la patología de la vesícula biliar con indicación quirúrgica. Durante su ejecución existe un grupo de pacientes que podrían requerir conversión a técnica abierta. Este estudio evaluó factores perioperatorios asociados a la conversión en la Clínica Central OHL en Montería, Colombia. Métodos. Estudio observacional analítico de casos y controles anidado a una cohorte retrospectiva entre 2018 y 2021, en una relación de 1:3 casos/controles, nivel de confianza 95 % y una potencia del 90 %. Se caracterizó la población de estudio y se evaluaron las asociaciones según la naturaleza de las variables, luego por análisis bivariado y multivariado se estimaron los OR, con sus IC95%, considerando significativo un valor de p<0,05, controlando variables de confusión. Resultados. El estudio incluyó 332 pacientes, 83 casos y 249 controles, mostrando en el modelo multivariado que las variables más fuertemente asociadas con la conversión fueron: la experiencia del cirujano (p=0,001), la obesidad (p=0,036), engrosamiento de la pared de la vesícula biliar en la ecografía (p=0,011) y un mayor puntaje en la clasificación de Parkland (p<0,001). Conclusión. La identificación temprana y análisis individual de los factores perioperatorios de riesgo a conversión en la planeación de la colecistectomía laparoscópica podría definir qué pacientes se encuentran expuestos y cuáles podrían beneficiarse de un abordaje mínimamente invasivo, en búsqueda de toma de decisiones adecuadas, seguras y costo-efectivas

Introduction. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for the management of gallbladder pathology with surgical indication. During its execution, there is a group of patients who may require conversion to the open technique. This study evaluated perioperative factors associated with conversion at the OHL Central Clinic in Montería, Colombia. Methods. Observational analytical case-control study nested in a retrospective cohort between 2018 and 2021, in a 1:3 case/control ratio, 95% confidence level and 90% power. The study population was characterized and the associations were evaluated according to the nature of the variables, then the OR were estimated by bivariate and multivariate analysis, with their 95% CI, considering a value of p<0.05 significant, controlling for confounding variables. Results. The study included 332 patients, 83 cases and 249 controls, showing in the multivariate model that the variables most strongly associated with conversion were: the surgeon's experience (p=0.001), obesity (p=0.036), gallbladder wall thickening on ultrasonography (p=0.011), and a higher score in the Parkland classification (p<0.001). Conclusions. Early identification and individual analysis of the perioperative risk factors for conversion in the planning of laparoscopic cholecystectomy could define which patients are exposed, and which could benefit from a minimally invasive approach, in search of making safe, cost-effective, and appropriate decisions

Gallbladder perforation with fistulous communication.

BACKGROUND: The management of gallbladder perforation (GBP) with fistulous communication (Neimeier type I) is controversial. AIM: To recommend management options for GBP with fistulous communication. METHODS: A systematic review of studies describing the management of Neimeier type I GBP was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. The search strategy was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and EMBASE (May 2022). Data extraction was obtained for patient characteristics, type of intervention, days of hospitalization (DoH), complications, and site of fistulous communication. RESULTS: A total of 54 patients (61% female) from case reports, series, and cohorts were included. The most frequent fistulous communication occurred in the abdominal wall. Patients from case reports/series had a similar proportion of complications between open cholecystectomy (OC) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) (28.6 vs 12.5; P = 0.569). Mortality was higher in OC (14.3 vs 0.0; P = 0.467) but this proportion was given by only one patient. DoH were higher in OC (mean 26.3 d vs 6.6 d). There was no clear association between higher rates of complications of a given intervention in cohorts, and no mortality was observed. CONCLUSION: Surgeons must evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the therapeutic options. OC and LC are adequate options for the surgical management of GBP, with no significant differences.

Efectividad de la colecistectomía laparoscópica de puerto único asistida con imanes bajo anestesia espinal

Objetivo: Determinar la efectividad de la colecistectomía laparoscópica de puerto único asistida por imanes bajo anestesia espinal en el tratamiento quirúrgico de la colecistopatía litiásica crónica. Material y Métodos: Estudio prospectivo de cohorte en 51 pacientes entre octubre de 2019 y febrero de 2021. 17 pacientes fueron sometidos a colecistectomía laparoscópica de puerto único asistida por imanes y 34 a colecistectomía laparoscópica convencional por un mismo equipo quirúrgico. Se aplicó la técnica quirúrgica descrita por Dominguez et al y SAGES, bajo anestesia espinal. Se realizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial, analizando el dolor postoperatorio a las 3, 6, 12, 24 y 72 h y la satisfacción de los pacientes. Resultados: Se encontró diferencia significativa en el dolor postoperatorio en el grupo de estudio a las 6 h (p = 0,022), 12 h (p = 0,039), 24 h (p = 0,025) y 72 h (p < 0,001). En la satisfacción se encuentra un RR de 3 (p = 0,001), sin diferencia significativa en el tiempo operatorio y horas de hospitalización postquirúrgicas. Conclusiones: La colecistectomía laparoscópica de puerto único asistida por imanes, bajo anestesia espinal, ha demostrado efectividad en la reducción importante del dolor postoperatorio a partir de las 6 h, y en la superación de las expectativas en los intervenidos, sin aumento significativo de tiempo operatorio ni estancia hospitalaria.

Aim: To determine the effectiveness of magnet-assisted single-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy under spinal anesthesia in surgical treatment of chronic lithiasic cholecystopathy. Materials and Method: Prospective cohort study in 51 patients between October 2019 and February 2021. 17 patients underwent magnet-assisted single-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy and 34 underwent conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy by the same surgical team. The surgical technique described by Dominguez and SAGES was used, under spinal anesthesia. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed, analyzing postoperative pain at 3, 6, 12, 24 and 72 hours and patient satisfaction. Results: A significant difference in postoperative pain was found in the study group at 6 h (p = 0.022), 12 h (p = 0.039), 24 h (p = 0.025) and 72 h (p < 0.001). In satisfaction, there is an RR of 3 (p = 0.001), with no significant difference in operative time and postoperative hospitalization hours. Conclusions: Magnet-assisted single-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy under spinal anesthesia has shown effectiveness in significantly reducing postoperative pain after 6h, associated with significantly exceeding expectations in those operated on, without a significant increase in operative time or hospital stay.

Colecistectomía laparoscópica en una paciente con situs inversus totalis. Reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura

Introducción: El situs inversus totalis es una condición congénita en la cual los órganos torácicos y abdominales se encuentran en posición contraria a la posición habitual. En la literatura quirúrgica internacional se encuentran publicados no más de 55 casos de colecistectomía en pacientes con situs inversus totalis. La resolución laparoscópica de una paciente en nuestra Institución nos permite revisar esta particular condición patológica. Caso Clínico: Paciente femenino de 43 años de edad hospitalizada por una colecistitis aguda la cual es resuelta por vía laparoscópica sin incidentes. Material y Método: Se resume la literatura actual mediante una extensa revisión en PubMed de los reportes más relevantes. Considerando que todos los artículos publicados son casos clínicos o pequeñas series de casos, se presentan los resultados de esta revisión en tablas con estadística descriptiva básica. Discusión: Se discuten las características generales de estos pacientes, la presentación clínica, diagnóstico y técnica quirúrgica. Conclusión: La colecistectomía laparoscópica constituye el estándar de oro en pacientes con situs inversus y patología biliar, la cual debe ser realizada por un cirujano experimentado acomodando los trocares apropiadamente, debido a las dificultades técnicas que se encuentran en estos pacientes por las anomalías anatómicas propias de esta condición. El diagnóstico radiológico actual permite la planificación del abordaje y del procedimiento quirúrgico apropiado para cada paciente.

Introduction: Situs inversus totalis is a congenital condition in which the thoracic and abdominal organs are in the opposite position from normal anatomy. We found no more than 55 cases of cholecystectomy in patients with situs inversus totalis published in the international surgical literature. The laparoscopic resolution of a patient in our Institution allows us to review this particular pathological condition. Clinical Case: A 43-year-old female patient was admitted for acute cholecystitis and was resolved laparoscopically without any incidents. Material and Method: We summarized the current literature through an extensive PubMed review of the most relevant reports. Considering that all published articles are clinical cases or small case series, we present the results of this review in a table with basic descriptive statistics. Discussion: We discuss the general characteristics of these patients, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and surgical technique. Conclusions: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard in patients with situs inversus and biliary pathology, which must be performed by an experienced surgeon, properly accommodating the trocars due to the technical difficulties in these patients secondary to anatomical anomalies typical of this condition. Current radiological diagnosis allows planning the appropriate approach and surgical procedure for each patient.

External Validation of Two Scoring Tools to Predict the Operative Duration and Open Conversion of Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in a Mexican Population.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the use of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) operative time (CholeS score) and conversion to an open procedure (CLOC score) outside their validation dataset in Mexican population. METHODS: Patients >18 years who underwent elective LC were analyzed in a single-center retrospective chart review study. Association between scores (CholeS and CLOC) with operative time and conversion to open procedures was assessed with Spearman correlation. The predictive accuracy of the CholeS score and CLOC score was evaluated by receiver operator characteristic. RESULTS: 200 patients were included in the study (33 excluded for emergency case or missing data). Spearman coefficient correlations between CholeS or CLOC score and operative time were 0.456 (p < 0.0001) and 0.356 (p < 0.0001), respectively. Area under the curve (AUC) for operative prediction time (>90 min) by CholeS score was 0.786 with a 3.5-point cutoff (80% sensitivity and 63.2% specificity). AUC for open conversion (CLOC score) was 0.78 with a 5-point cutoff (60% sensitivity and 91% specificity). The CLOC score had a 0.740 AUC (64% sensitivity and 72.8% specificity) for operative time >90 min. CONCLUSIONS: The CholeS and the CLOC scores predicted LC long operative time and risk for conversion to an open procedure, respectively, outside their original validation set.

[Evaluation of post-surgical complications between "Rendez-vous" technique vs. standard care in patients with choledocholithiasis]. / Evaluación de complicaciones posquirúrgicas de la técnica «Rendez-vous¼ vs. el manejo estándar en pacientes con coledocolitiasis.

Background: "Rendez-vous" (RV) technique is a mixed-technique which uses both laparoscopic and endoscopic skills; however, the evidence is contradictory regarding the implementation of this technique or the 2-step sequential technique (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography [ERCP] followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy [LC]) in the management of cholecysto-choledocholitiasis. Objective: To estimate the association between the implementation of RV technique and the presence of post-surgical complications as primary outcome, using as comparator the 2-step sequential technique. Method: An observational, analytical, retrospective study was conducted, using as exposed cohort the medical records from patients with a diagnosis of cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, or mild biliary pancreatitis. The exposed cohort underwent RV technique, while the unexposed cohort were those which underwent two step technique. Results: There was a lower post-surgical complication rate in the RV group (0%) compared with the 10.1% (p = 0.3617) in the control group. Also, RV technique showed a lesser hospitalization time (p = 0.0377) and a lesser post-surgical hospitalization time (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: RV technique is superior when compared with the 2-step sequential technique (ERCP followed by LC), based on a better surgical success rate, a fewer complications rate and less hospitalization time.

Antecedentes: La técnica de «Rendez-vous¼ (RV) es una técnica mixta en la que se combinan las habilidades endoscópicas y laparoscópicas. La evidencia es contradictoria respecto al uso de RV frente a la técnica secuencial en dos tiempos (colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica [CPRE] seguida de colecistectomía laparoscópica [CL]) para el manejo de la colecisto-coledocolitiasis. Objetivo: Estimar la asociación entre el uso de la técnica RV y la presencia de complicaciones posquirúrgicas como desenlace primario, en comparación con la técnica secuencial. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional analítico retrospectivo que tomó como cohorte expuesta las historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico de colelitiasis, colecistitis o pancreatitis leve de origen biliar sometidos a la técnica RV, y se compararon con registros en los que se realizó la técnica de dos tiempos. Resultados: La tasa de complicaciones posquirúrgicas en el grupo de RV fue del 0%, frente al 10.1% (p = 0.3617) en el grupo control. Además, la RV presentó menor tiempo de hospitalización global (p = 0.0377) y posquirúrgica (p < 0.0001). Conclusiones: La técnica RV es superior a la técnica secuencial de CPRE seguida de CL, por su mayor tasa de éxito, menor tasa de complicaciones y menor tiempo hospitalario.