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Intracholecystic papillary neoplasm (ICPN) of the gallbladder is a rare tumor described as a mucosal exophytic neoplastic lesion that projects into the gallbladder lumen. In regards to the size, lesions that did not make the arbitrary 1cm cutoff are described as "incipient" ICPN. Not much is known about these incipient ICPNs, as they are often excluded in ICPN studies, given the attempted adherence to the traditional 1cm cutoff. We present the youngest reported case of incipient, non-mucinous gastric-pylorus type ICPN who underwent cholecystectomy. Resection with negative margin for ICPN appears to be sufficient treatment and post resection imaging surveillance could be of value but further studies are required., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared the following potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: Dr Jeyarajah is a consultant for AngioDynamics, Ethicon, and Sirtex.

Background: The Whipple procedure for pancreatic adenocarcinoma frequently is referred to surgeons at high-volume centers, which requires that patients travel long distances, potentially impacting patient outcomes. Furthermore, patients with pancreatic cancer from underserved areas often have poor outcomes. There are limited data on Whipple outcomes on the basis of both socioeconomic and distance traveled., Methods: This retrospective cohort study examined patients who underwent the Whipple procedure for pancreatic adenocarcinoma at a tertiary care center from 2019 to 2021. Patients who lived in areas with an Area Deprivation Index national percentile of >50% and ≥100 miles away from the care center were labeled as "at-risk" patients., Results: Seventy-eight patients were included, with 22 (28.2%) patients determined to be at risk. The preoperative characteristics were comparable between the patients in the at-risk and standard-risk groups. Postoperatively, patients in the at-risk group were more likely to require reoperation (13.6% vs 0%; P = .020) and less likely to undergo adjuvant chemotherapy (73.2% vs 50%; P = .034) than patients in the standard-risk group; pathologic staging and frequency of previous use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy were not significantly different between the groups. At-risk status did not influence overall survival or recurrence rate., Conclusions: Through the integration of distance traveled and Area Deprivation Index, we have redefined the characterization of at-risk patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, who are at greater risk of undergoing reoperation and not receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. By addressing these intersecting challenges, providers can mitigate disparities and improve the care of these patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: While surgical resection has a demonstrated utility for patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM), it is unclear whether minimally invasive surgery (MIS) or an open approach should be used. This review sought to assess the efficacy and safety of MIS versus open hepatectomy for isolated, resectable CRLM when performed separately from (Key Question (KQ) 1) or simultaneously with (KQ2) the resection of the primary tumor., Methods: PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane CENTRAL, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched to identify both randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized comparative studies published during January 2000-September 2020. Two independent reviewers screened literature for eligibility, extracted data from included studies, and assessed internal validity using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 Tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed using risk ratios (RR) and mean differences (MD)., Results: From 2304 publications, 35 studies were included for meta-analysis. For staged resections, three RCTs and 20 observational studies were included. Data from RCTs indicated MIS having similar disease-free survival (DFS) at 1-year (RR 1.03, 95%CI 0.70-1.50), overall survival (OS) at 5-years (RR 1.04, 95%CI 0.84-1.28), fewer complications of Clavien-Dindo Grade III (RR 0.62, 95%CI 0.38-1.00), and shorter hospital length of stay (LOS) (MD -6.6 days, 95%CI -10.2, -3.0). For simultaneous resections, 12 observational studies were included. There was no evidence of a difference between MIS and the open group for DFS-1-year, OS-5-year, complications, R0 resections, blood transfusions, along with lower blood loss (MD -177.35 mL, 95%CI -273.17, -81.53) and shorter LOS (MD -3.0 days, 95%CI -3.82, -2.17)., Conclusions: Current evidence regarding the optimal approach for CRLM resection demonstrates similar oncologic outcomes between MIS and open techniques, however MIS hepatectomy had a shorter LOS, lower blood loss and complication rate, for both staged and simultaneous resections., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Whether albumin and bilirubin levels, platelet counts, ALBI, and ALPlat scores could be useful for the assessment of permanent liver functional deterioration after repeat liver resection was examined, and the deterioration after laparoscopic procedure was evaluated. For 657 patients with liver resection of segment or less in whom results of plasma albumin and bilirubin levels and platelet counts before and 3 months after surgery could be retrieved, liver functional indicators were compared before and after surgery. There were 268 patients who underwent open repeat after previous open liver resection, and 224 patients who underwent laparoscopic repeat after laparoscopic liver resection. The background factors, liver functional indicators before and after surgery and their changes were compared between both groups. Plasma levels of albumin ( p = 0.006) and total bilirubin ( p = 0.01) were decreased, and ALBI score ( p = 0.001) indicated worse liver function after surgery. Laparoscopic group had poorer preoperative performance status and liver function. Changes of liver functional values before and after surgery and overall survivals were similar between laparoscopic and open groups. Plasma levels of albumin and bilirubin and ALBI score could be the indicators for permanent liver functional deterioration after liver resection. Laparoscopic group with poorer conditions showed the similar deterioration of liver function and overall survivals to open group.

Background: Despite colostomy closure being a common procedure, it remains highly morbid. Previous literature suggests that complication rates, including surgical site infections, intra-abdominal abscess, and anastomotic failures, reach as high as 50%. With the creation of a dedicated colorectal service, colostomy reversals have been largely migrated from the acute care surgery services. This study analyzes the differences in outcomes in colostomy closures performed between colorectal surgeons and acute care surgeons., Methods: We retrospectively analyzed our experience with 127 colostomy closures performed in our hospital system by acute care surgeons and colorectal surgeons from 2016 through 2020. Demographic data, operative data, and outcomes such as abscess formation, anastomotic leak, and readmission were analyzed. Multivariate regression analysis was performed for intraabdominal abscesses and anastomotic leaks., Results: In total, 71 colostomy closures were performed by colorectal surgeons (56%) and 56 by acute care surgeons (43%). The majority of colostomy reversals were after Hartmann's procedure for perforated diverticulitis. No differences in demographics were identified, except for a shorter interval to closure in the acute care surgeons group (10.0 vs 7.2 months; P = .049). Two (3.6%) acute care surgeon patients required colorectal surgeon consultation during the definitive repair. Regression analysis identified body mass index (odds ratio 2.43; P = .001), male gender (odds ratio -2.39; P = .18), and colorectal surgeons (odds ratio -2.28; P = .025) as significant risk factors for anastomotic leak., Conclusion: Analysis of the current series identified female gender and increased body mass index as higher risk, while procedures performed by colorectal surgeons were at decreased risk for anastomotic leak. Our study identified colostomy reversals performed by a dedicated colorectal service decreased the rate of anastomotic leak., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Ventral hernia repair (VHR) with acellular dermal matrix (ADM) has high rates of recurrence that may be improved with allogeneic growth factor augmentation such as amniotic fluid allograft (AFA). We hypothesized that AFA would modulate the host response to improve ADM incorporation in VHR. Lewis rats underwent chronic VHR with porcine ADM alone or with AFA augmentation. Tissue harvested at 3, 14, or 28 days was assessed for region-specific cellularity, and a validated histomorphometric score was generated for tissue incorporation. Expression of pro-inflammatory (Nos1, Tnfα), anti-inflammatory (Arg1, Il-10, Mrc1) and tissue regeneration (Col1a1, Col3a1, Vegf, and alpha actinin-2) genes were quantified using quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Amniotic fluid allograft treatment caused enhanced vascularization and cellularization translating to increased histomorphometric scores at 14 days, likely mediated by upregulation of pro-regeneration genes throughout the study period and molecular evidence of anti-inflammatory, M2-polarized macrophage phenotype. Collectively, this suggests AFA may have a therapeutic role as a VHR adjunct., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: The existence of race and gender disparity has been described in numerous areas of medicine. The management of hepatocellular cancer is no different, but in no other area of medicine, is the treatment algorithm more complicated by local, regional, and national health care distribution policy., Methods: Multivariate logistic regression and Cox-regression were utilized to analyze the treatment of patients with hepatocellular cancer registered in SEER between 1999 and 2013 to determine the incidence and effects of racial and gender disparity. Odd ratios (OR) are relative to Caucasian males, SEER region, and tumor characteristics., Results: The analysis of 57,449 patients identified the minority were female (25.31%) and African-American (16.26%). All tumor interventions were protective (p < 0.001) with respect to survival. The mean survival for all registered patients was 13.01 months with conditional analysis, confirming that African-American men were less likely to undergo ablation, resection, or transplantation (p < 0.001). Women were more likely to undergo resection (p < 0.001). African-American women had an equivalent OR for resection but had a significantly lower transplant rate (p < 0.001)., Conclusions: Utilizing SEER data as a surrogate for patient navigation in the treatment of hepatocellular cancer, our study identified not only race but gender bias with African-American women suffering the greatest. This is underscored by the lack of navigation of African-Americans to any therapy and a significant bias to navigate female patients to resection potentially limiting subsequent access to definitive therapy namely transplantation.

Less morbidity is considered among the advantages of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) for HCC patients. However, our previous international, multi-institutional, propensity score-based study of emerging laparoscopic repeat liver resection (LRLR) failed to prove this advantage. We hypothesize that these results may be since the study included complex LRLR cases performed during the procedure's developing stage. To examine it, subgroup analysis based on propensity score were performed, defining the proximity of the tumors to major vessels as the indicator of complex cases. Among 1582 LRLR cases from 42 international high-volume liver surgery centers, 620 cases without the proximity to major vessels (more than 1 cm far from both first-second branches of Glissonian pedicles and major hepatic veins) were selected for this subgroup analysis. A propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed based on their patient characteristics, preoperative liver function, tumor characteristics and surgical procedures. One hundred and fifteen of each patient groups of LRLR and open repeat liver resection (ORLR) were earned, and the outcomes were compared. Backgrounds were well-balanced between LRLR and ORLR groups after matching. With comparable operation time and long-term outcome, less blood loss (283.3±823.0 vs. 603.5±664.9 mL, p = 0.001) and less morbidity (8.7 vs. 18.3 %, p = 0.034) were shown in LRLR group than ORLR. Even in its worldwide developing stage, LRLR for HCC patients could be beneficial in blood loss and morbidity for the patients with less complexity in surgery.

Background: Minimally invasive liver resection (MILR) has gained momentum in recent years. This study of contemporary data compares economic and clinical outcomes between MILR and open liver resection (OLR)., Methods: We extracted data for patients undergoing liver resection between October 2015-September 2018 from the Premier Healthcare Database. We conducted a propensity score matched analysis to compare complications, in-hospital mortality, inpatient readmissions, discharge to institutional post-acute care, operating room time (ORT), length of stay (LOS), and total hospital cost between MILR and OLR patients., Results: From the eligible OLR (n = 3349) and MILR (n = 1367) patients, we propensity score matched 1261 from each cohort at a 1:1 ratio. After matching, MILR was associated with lower rates of complications (bleeding: 8.2% vs. 17.4%; respiratory failure: 5.5% vs. 10.9%; intestinal obstruction: 3.6% vs. 6.0%, and pleural effusion: 1.9% vs. 4.9%), in-hospital mortality (0.5% vs. 3.0%), 90-day inpatient readmissions (10.4% vs. 14.3%), discharge to institutional post-acute care (6.9% vs. 12.3%), shorter ORT (257 vs. 308 min) and LOS (4.3 vs. 7.2 days), and lower hospital costs ($19463 vs. $29119) (all P < 0.001)., Conclusion: MILR was associated with lower risk of complications and reduced hospital resource utilizations as compared with OLR., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: After promising early outcomes in the use of absorbable biologic mesh for complex abdominal wall reconstruction, significant criticism has been raised over the longevity of these repairs after its 2-year resorption profile., Methods: This is the long-term (5-year) follow-up analysis of our initial experience with the absorbable polymer scaffold poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) mesh compared with a consecutive contiguous group treated with porcine cadaveric mesh for complex abdominal wall reconstructions. Our clinical analysis was performed using Stata 14.2 and Excel 16.16.23., Results: After a 5-year follow-up period, the P4HB group (n = 31) experienced lower rates of reherniation (12.9% vs 38.1%; P = 0.017) compared with the porcine cadaveric mesh group (n = 42). The median interval in months to recurrent herniation was similar between groups (24.3 vs 20.8; P = 0.700). Multivariate logistic regression analysis on long-term outcomes identified smoking ( P = 0.004), African American race ( P = 0.004), and the use of cadaveric grafts ( P = 0.003) as risks for complication while smoking ( P = 0.034) and the use of cadaveric grafts ( P = 0.014) were identified as risks for recurrence. The long-term cost analysis showed that P4HB had a $10,595 per case costs savings over porcine cadaveric mesh., Conclusions: Our study identified the superior outcomes in clinical performance and a value-based benefit of absorbable biologic P4HB scaffold persisted after the 2-year resorption timeframe. Data analysis also confirmed the use of porcine cadaveric grafts independently contributed to the incidence of complications and recurrences., Competing Interests: Disclosure: J.F.B. is a consultant and a member of the professional education group for Becton Dickerson Bard, ACell, Medtronic, and Johnson & Johnson. The other authors declare that there is nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Background: Complex abdominal wall reconstruction using biologic mesh can lead to increased recurrence rates, nonincorporation, and high perioperative costs. We developed a novel decellularization method and applied it to porcine muscle fascia to mirror target-tissue architecture. The aims of this study were to analyze mechanical strength and tissue-graft incorporation., Methods: After serial decellularization, muscle-fascia mesh was created and tested for mechanical strength and DNA content. The muscle-fascia mesh was implanted subcutaneously in rats (n = 4/group) and the cohorts killed 1 to 4 weeks later. Explants were examined histologically or immunohistochemically., Results: Mechanical testing demonstrated equivalent strength compared with a commercially available biological mesh (AlloDerm), with mechanical strength attributable to the fascia component. Grafts were successfully implanted with no observable adverse events. Gross necroscopy revealed excellent subdermal scaffold engraftment. Microscopic evaluation identified progressive collagen deposition within the graft, neoangiogenesis, and presence of CD34 positive cells, in the absence of discernable graft rejection., Conclusion: This study confirms a decellularization process can successfully create a DNA-free composite abdominal wall (muscle-fascia) scaffold that can be implanted intraspecies without rejection. Expanding this approach may allow exploitation of the angiogenic capacities of decellularized muscle, concomitant with the inherent strength of decellularized fascia, to perform preclinical analyses of graft strength in animal models in vivo., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Studies have demonstrated that there are sex disparities in the rate of liver transplantation. However, little is known statistically about whether this disparity is caused by liver compartment size, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease adjustments, or regional differences., Methods: We use retrospective data from the United Network for Organ Sharing Standard Treatment Analysis and Research data files for liver transplantation from 1995 through 2012. The final sample consists of 150,149 patients. These data contain information on all individuals who registered for the liver transplant waiting list as well as updated outcome data. Linear probability and logistic regression models were both used., Results: Women were 4.8 percentage points less likely to receive a transplant. Adjustment for race, weight, body mass index, region, education, and other characteristics attenuated the sex difference by roughly 19% (from 4.8 to 3.9 percentage points). The disparity was consistent across the 11 United Network for Organ Sharing allocation regions. Comparing the heaviest women to the lightest men, the disparity flipped. Pairwise comparisons between men and women of various sizes suggest that disparities in favor of men increase with the ratio of male-to-female size., Conclusion: Our results document persistent sex disparity in liver transplantation, only 19% of which is explained by size differentials between men and women. Differences in rates of transplantation are increasing in the ratio of male-to-female height and weight, suggesting that some of the disparity is explained by differences in liver compartment size., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Robotic hepatopancreaticobiliary (HPB) procedures are performed worldwide and establishing processes for safe adoption of this technology is essential for patient benefit. We report results of the Delphi process to define and optimize robotic training procedures for HPB surgeons., Methods: In 2019, a robotic HPB surgery panel with an interest in surgical training from the Americas and Europe was created and met. An e-consensus-finding exercise using the Delphi process was applied and consensus was defined as 80% agreement on each question. Iterations of anonymous voting continued over three rounds., Results: Members agreed on several points: there was need for a standardized robotic training curriculum for HPB surgery that considers experience of surgeons and based on a robotic hepatectomy includes a common approach for "basic robotic skills" training (e-learning module, including hardware description, patient selection, port placement, docking, troubleshooting, fundamentals of robotic surgery, team training and efficiency, and emergencies) and an "advanced technical skills curriculum" (e-learning, including patient selection information, cognitive skills, and recommended operative equipment lists). A modular approach to index procedures should be used with video demonstrations, port placement for index procedure, troubleshooting, and emergency scenario management information. Inexperienced surgeons should undergo training in basic robotic skills and console proficiency, transitioning to full procedure training of e-learning (video demonstration, simulation training, case observation, and final evaluation). Experienced surgeons should undergo basic training when using a new system (e-learning, dry lab, and operating room (OR) team training, virtual reality modules, and wet lab; case observations were unnecessary for basic training) and should complete the advanced index procedural robotic curriculum with assessment by wet lab, case observation, and OR team training., Conclusions: Optimization and standardization of training and education of HPB surgeons in robotic procedures was agreed upon. Results are being incorporated into future curriculum for education in robotic surgery.

Introduction: The reported rate of postoperative bile leak is variable between 3 and 33%. Recent data would suggest a minimally invasive approach to liver surgery has decreased this incidence., Methods: This multi-institutional case-control study utilized databases from three high-volume surgeons. All consecutive open and minimally invasive liver resection cases were analyzed in a propensity score-adjusted multivariable regression. A p value < 0.05 was considered significant., Results: In 1388 consecutive liver resections, the average age was 56.9 ± 14.0 years, 730 (52.59%) were male gender, and 599 (43.16%) underwent minimally invasive liver resection. Thirty-nine (2.81%) in the series were identified with post-resection bile duct leaks. Leaks were associated with major resections and increased blood loss (p < 0.05). Propensity score-adjusted multivariable regression identified minimally invasive liver resection significantly and independently reduced the odds of bile duct leak (OR 0.48, p = 0.046) even controlling for BMI, ASA, cirrhosis, major resection, and resection year., Conclusions: Our data suggest the incidence of bile leaks in a large-volume center series is far less than previously reported and that a minimally invasive approach to liver resection reduces the incidence of postoperative bile leak.

Background: To assess long-term oncologic outcomes of robotic-assisted liver resection (RLR) for colorectal cancer (CRC) metastases as compared to a propensity-matched cohort of laparoscopic liver resections (LLR). Although safety and short-term outcomes of RLR have been described and previously compared to LLR, long-term and oncologic data are lacking., Methods: A retrospective study was performed of all patients who underwent RLR and LLR for CRC metastases at six high-volume centers in the USA and Europe between 2002 and 2017. Propensity matching was used to match baseline characteristics between the two groups. Data were analyzed with a focus on postoperative and oncologic outcomes, as well as long-term recurrence and survival., Results: RLR was performed in 115 patients, and 514 patients underwent LLR. Following propensity matching 115 patients in each cohort were compared. Perioperative outcomes including mortality, morbidity, reoperation, readmission, intensive care requirement, length-of-stay and margin status were not statistically different. Both prematching and postmatching analyses demonstrated similar overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) between RLR and LLR at 5 years (61 vs. 60% OS, p = 0.87, and 38 vs. 31% DFS, p = 0.25, prematching; 61 vs. 60% OS, p = 0.78, and 38 vs. 44% DFS, p = 0.62, postmatching)., Conclusions: Propensity score matching with a large, multicenter database demonstrates that RLR for colorectal metastases is feasible and safe, with perioperative and long-term oncologic outcomes and survival that are largely comparable to LLR.

Background: Liquid biopsy is a new area in cancer diagnostics that measures cell-free DNA in plasma from tumor that may serve as a monitoring tool in colorectal cancer patients., Methods: Multiplexed real-time polymerase chain reaction based on multicopy retro-transposable elements (targeting 80 base pair and 265 base pair sequences and an internal-positive-control) was used to evaluate the ability of cell-free DNA concentration and DNA Integrity Index to discriminate cancer from healthy patients. A cohort of 40 healthy controls and 39 stage IV colorectal patient's plasma were interrogated. The potency of each biomarker was measured by using receiver operating characteristic curves and derived area under the curve measures., Results: Significant differences in cell-free DNA concentration and DNA integrity index were observed between controls and stage IV patients with a limit of detection <0.1 pg/μL. Investigation of the ability of both biomarker candidates to differentiate cancer from healthy patients showed an area under the curve of 0.9891 and 0.9859 for 80 base pair and 265 amplicons respectively and 0.8603 for DNA integrity index-265/80., Conclusions: After establishing differences in cell-free DNA levels between healthy and treated and untreated stage IV patients, the multiplexed real-time polymerase chain reaction measurements of retro-transposable elements in cancer patient plasma potentially possess the ability to monitor therapy responsiveness in near real time., (Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background: Bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy persists as a significant problem in general surgery, resulting in complex injuries, arterial damage, and post repair strictures., Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis between 2 eras of bile duct injury repairs: 1987 to 2001 (n = 58) and 2002 to 2016 (n = 52) using logistic regression analyses to assess presentation, repair complexity, and outcomes., Results: No differences in demographics, incidence of cholecystitis, conversion, time to presentation, level of injury, or arterial injury were identified. The second era had an increase in patient age, transhepatic catheter use, prior repair, and utilization of complex repairs. This approach resulted in equivalent complications and mortality rates with increased resource utilization but a lesser incidence of post-repair strictures (P = .004). Regression modeling correlated strictures to prior operative repairs (OR 4.25; P = .016) and a protective effect of repairs performed in the second era (OR 0.23; P = .045)., Conclusion: The second era identified a decreasing trend of attempted repairs by referring surgeons but an increase in transhepatic catheters and complex repairs resulting in lesser rates of post-repair stricture. Final regression modeling confirmed increased operative experience decreased post-repair stricture reaffirming the benefits of early identification and referral of bile duct injuries to an experienced hepatobiliary surgeon at a specialty center., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Immunosuppression is a known risk for post-transplant infections. Little data exist on the risk contributions of specific agents for various infections., Methods: A triply robust propensity score-adjusted analysis was performed in a renal transplant cohort between February 2006 and January 2014. The study was performed to identify the incidence and the risk factors for developing a post-transplant infection. After initial bivariate analysis, a triply robust propensity score-adjusted multivariate logistic regression was performed., Results: The mean age of the 717 renal transplant recipients was 50.0 ± 13.3 years, with the majority being male (61.6%) and 349 (48.7%) experiencing at least 1 post-transplant infection. Neither race, graft type, nor insurance status was associated with an increased incidence or risk of infection. In a fully adjusted regression model, the immunosuppressants mycophenolic acid mofetil (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.21-0.71; P < .001) and alemtuzumab (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.19-0.85; P = .020) were protective., Conclusion: Alemtuzumab and mycophenolic acid mofetil as immunosuppressant agents in a multiagent protocol appear to decrease the incidence of infection. Cytomegalovirus antigenemia was the greatest risk for infection and mycophenolic acid mofetil possessed the greatest protective effect on viral infections., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Objective: Robotic liver surgery (RLS) has emerged as a feasible alternative to laparoscopic or open resections with comparable perioperative outcomes. Little is known about the oncologic adequacy of RLS. The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term oncologic outcomes for patients undergoing RLS for primary hepatobiliary malignancies., Methods: We performed an international, multicenter, retrospective study of patients who underwent RLS for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CC), or gallbladder cancer (GBC) between 2006 and 2016. Age, gender, histology, resection margin status, extent of surgical resection, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) were retrospectively collected and analyzed., Results: Of the 61 included patients, 34 (56%) had RLS performed for HCC, 16 (26%) for CC, and 11 (18%) for GBC. The majority of resections were nonanatomical or segmental resections (39.3%), followed by central hepatectomy (18%), left-lateral sectionectomy (14.8%), left hepatectomy (13.1%), right hepatectomy (13.1%), and right posterior segmentectomy (1.6%). R0 resection was achieved in 94% of HCC, 68% of CC, and 81.8% of GBC patients. Median hospital stay was 5 days, and conversion to open surgery was needed in seven patients (11.5%). Grade III-IV Dindo-Clavien complications occurred in seven patients with no perioperative mortality. Median follow-up was 75 months (95% confidence interval 36-113), and 5-year OS and DFS were 56 and 38%, respectively. When stratified by tumor type, 3-year OS was 90% for HCC, 65% for GBC, and 49% for CC (p = 0.01)., Conclusions: RLS can be performed for primary hepatobiliary malignancies with long-term oncologic outcomes comparable to published open and laparoscopic data.

Background: Sources of liver transplant disparities are not understood adequately, particularly in terms of race and region., Methods: Fixed effects multivariate logistic regression augmented by modified forward and backward stepwise regression of transplanted patients from the United Network for Organ Sharing Standard Transplant Analysis and Research database (1985-2016) was performed to assess causal inference of such disparities., Results: In the study sample (N = 258,602), significant disparities in the odds of receiving a liver were found: African Americans odds ratio 1.12 (95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.17), Asians 1.12 (95% confidence interval, 1.07-1.18), females 0.80 (95% confidence interval, 0.78-0.83), and malignancy 1.18 (95% confidence interval, 1.13-1.22). Region 7 (IL, MN, ND, SD, and WI) was set as the reference level since its transplantation rate most closely approximated the sex and race-matched rate of the national post-Share 35 average. Significant racial disparities by region were identified using Caucasian Region 7 as the reference: Hispanic Region 9 (New York, West Vermont) 1.22 (1.02-1.45), Hispanic Region 1 (New England) 1.26 (1.01-1.57), Hispanic Region 4 (Oklahoma, TX) 1.23 (1.05-1.43), and Asian Region 4 (Oklahoma, TX) 1.35 (1.05-1.73)., Conclusion: Despite numerous adjustments to liver allocation, we identified with causal inference statistics on a large dataset spanning ≥30 years there remain racial and regional overweighting., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Racial disparity in access to liver transplantation among African Americans (AA) compared to Caucasians (CA) has been well described. The aim of this investigation was to examine the presentation of AA liver transplant recipients in a socioeconomically challenged region., Methods: 680 adult liver transplant candidates and 233 resultant recipients between 2007 and 2015 were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses to evaluate factors significant for transplantation., Results: Percentages of wait list patients transplanted were similar between CA and AA (34.9% vs. 32.2%, p = 0.5205). AA were younger (50.4 ± 1.8 vs. 56.3 ± 0.7 yrs, p = 0.0003) with higher average MELD scores (22.9 ± 1.6 vs. 19.4 ± 0.7, p = 0.0230). Overall patient mortality was similar (AA 22.7% vs. CA 26.3%, p = 0.5931). A multiple linear regression showed that male gender was strongly associated with transplantation., Conclusions: Equal access to liver transplantation remains challenging for racial minorities. At our institution, AA were accepted and transplanted at an equivalent rate as CA despite a higher AA population, HCV rate and diagnosed HCC. AA were younger and sicker at the time of transplant, but overall had similar outcomes compared to CA. Our study highlights the need for studies to delineate the underpinnings of disparity in transplantation access., (Copyright © 2017 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate the use of the new absorbable polymer scaffold poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) in complex abdominal wall reconstruction., Background: Complex abdominal wall reconstruction has witnessed tremendous success in the last decade after the introduction of cadaveric biologic scaffolds. However, the use of cadaveric biologic mesh has been expensive and plagued by complications such as seroma, infection, and recurrent hernia. Despite widespread application of cadaveric biologic mesh, little data exist on the superiority of these materials in the setting of high-risk wounds in patients. P4HB, an absorbable polymer scaffold, may present a new alternative to these cadaveric biologic grafts., Methods: A retrospective analysis of our initial experience with the absorbable polymer scaffold P4HB compared with a consecutive contiguous group treated with porcine cadaveric mesh for complex abdominal wall reconstructions. Our analysis was performed using SAS 9.3 and Stata 12., Results: The P4HB group (n = 31) experienced shorter drain time (10.0 vs 14.3 d; P < 0.002), fewer complications (22.6% vs 40.5%; P < 0.046), and reherniation (6.5% vs 23.8%; P < 0.049) than the porcine cadaveric mesh group (n = 42). Multivariate analysis for infection identified: porcine cadaveric mesh odds ratio 2.82, length of stay odds ratio 1.11; complications: drinker odds ratio 6.52, porcine cadaveric mesh odds ratio 4.03, African American odds ratio 3.08, length of stay odds ratio 1.11; and hernia recurrence: porcine cadaveric mesh odds ratio 5.18, drinker odds ratio 3.62, African American odds ratio 0.24. Cost analysis identified that P4HB had a $7328.91 financial advantage in initial hospitalization and $2241.17 in the 90-day postdischarge global period resulting in $9570.07 per case advantage over porcine cadaveric mesh., Conclusions: In our early clinical experience with the absorbable polymer matrix scaffold P4HB, it seemed to provide superior clinical performance and value-based benefit compared with porcine cadaveric biologic mesh.

Background: Amniotic membrane is tissue obtained from human placenta rich in cytokines, growth factors, and stem cells that possess the ability to inhibit infection, improve healing, and stimulate regeneration., Methods: A meta-analysis was performed examining randomized controlled trials comparing amniotic tissue products with standard of care in nonhealing diabetic foot ulcers including PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews., Results: A search of 3 databases identified 596 potentially relevant articles. Application of selection criteria led to the selection of 5 randomized controlled trials. The 5 selected randomized controlled trials represented a total of 311 patients. The pooled relative risk of healing with amniotic products compared with control was 2.7496 (2.05725-3.66524, P < 0.001)., Conclusions: The current meta-analysis indicates that the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers with amniotic membrane improves healing rates in diabetic foot ulcers. Further studies are needed to determine whether these products also decrease the incidence of subsequent complications, such as amputation or death, in diabetic patients.

In this article, we present the rationale for creating a new society aiming at organizing laparoscopic liver surgery. It has been named International Laparoscopic Liver Society (ILLS). Its main mission is to facilitate the diffusion and education of laparoscopic liver resection for meaningful improvements in patient care. This will include organization of a biannual congress dedicated to laparoscopic liver resection, coordination of international registries, helping in the education of surgeons wishing to learn these techniques including travel grants, provide a website serving as a forum supporting collaboration between surgeons interested in the advancement of laparoscopic liver resection techniques (http://www.ills.global/). ILLS aims at working in collaboration with existing HPB societies., (© 2016 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Importance: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a preventable disease that plays a causative role in a significant proportion of malignant neoplasms of the head and neck. Inner-city populations are at risk for HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, are least likely to receive HPV vaccination, and report a lack of information regarding HPV., Objective: To determine whether an educational platform affects knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding HPV vaccination in an inner-city community., Design, Setting, and Participants: This prospective cohort study, conducted from March 1 to December 31, 2014, surveyed 128 participants at multiple inner-city community centers regarding their knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices regarding HPV vaccination before and after a brief educational presentation. No eligible individuals refused to participate in the educational session. Surveys were excluded from analysis if they were incomplete., Interventions: Participants completed two 20-question surveys separated by a 15-minute educational session on HPV-related disease, including a short PowerPoint presentation., Main Outcomes and Measures: Presence of statistically significant differences in survey scores before and after the educational session., Results: Eighty-six participants met eligibility criteria (61 male [70.9%]; 68 with a high school education [79.1%]). Baseline knowledge of HPV, its causal association with cancer, and the existence of a vaccine against HPV were poor: of a total composite score of 20, the mean knowledge score before the educational session was 9.69. Participants' self-rated knowledge regarding HPV disease and vaccination improved significantly as a result of the educational session; the absolute increase in mean knowledge composite score from before the educational session to after the session was 3.52 (17.6%) (95% CI, -2.87 to 9.92; P < .01). Attitudes regarding government involvement in vaccination did not change as a result of the educational session (composite attitudes score before the educational session, 16.57 of 28; score after the session, 15.22; P = .98). Participants' intent to vaccinate their children increased significantly following the educational presentation: before the presentation, 34 respondents (40%) intended to have their children vaccinated; after the presentation, 60 (70%) intended to do so (P = .002)., Conclusions and Relevance: Lack of knowledge regarding HPV vaccination and unwillingness to undergo vaccination contribute to low rates of HPV vaccination within urban populations. Community-based educational sessions successfully teach the link between HPV and various cancers, provide information regarding the risks and benefits of vaccination, and increase participants' willingness to vaccinate their children against HPV. Attitudes regarding government involvement in health programs are resistant to change.

Background: The proportions of laparoscopic approach and surgical procedures in liver resections have been unknown in clinical practice. The aim of this study is to investigate liver resections performed in select centers worldwide and analyze the ratios of laparoscopic approach, major liver resection, and left lateral sectionectomy., Methods: A questionnaire-based survey on proportions of liver resections performed between 2008 and 2013 was conducted. The data collected from 27 respondents, which joined the conference committee of the second International Consensus Conference on Laparoscopic Liver Resection (LLR), were analyzed by the working group., Results: Between 2008 and 2013, 11,712 liver resections were performed in the 27 centers. Of all of these liver resections, laparoscopic approach was selected in 32.1% (n = 3,765), whereas open approach was selected in 67.9% (n = 7,947). The ratio of laparoscopic approach taken in all left lateral sectionectomy (61.8%) is higher, compared with that of laparoscopic approach taken in all liver resections (32.1%), in all minor liver resections (35.9%), and in all major liver resections (24.8%)., Conclusions: Laparoscopic approach was clinically chosen for approximately 30% of all liver resections and for more than 60% of left lateral sectionectomy in selected centers worldwide., (© 2016 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Background: The Affordable Care Act initiated innumerable cost-containment measures, including promoting generic conversion from brand medications and directing the Food and Drug Administration to decrease requirements for generic approvals. Despite this mandate, few data existed on generic conversion of immunosuppressant medications with narrow therapeutic troughs., Methods: A retrospective analysis of our initial experience with generic tacrolimus (n = 39) was performed using a control cohort from our renal transplant database. A rejection and cost analysis was performed using a consecutive 2-year prior cohort (n = 159) as a control to determine the effect of generic conversion on tacrolimus a narrow therapeutic index immunosuppressant medication., Results: During the first year after transplantation, the generic group had a greater drug variability (20% ± change in trough levels) that required more dosage adjustments (5.42 vs 3.59 drug dosage changes; P = .038) to obtain a stable dose, required increased number of intravenous magnesium infusions (4.95 vs 1.68 infusions; P = .001), and incurred a greater incidence of rejection (23.1% vs 10.2%; P = .024). A yearly institutional cost was evaluated against a negotiated $18,000/yearly central pharmacy cost savings compared with a $652,862 institutional cost to treat unanticipated rejections., Conclusion: Programmatic conversion from brand to generic tacrolimus resulted in increased drug variability, a greater incidence of magnesium wasting, and more episodes of rejection, leading to increases in institutional costs of care. This government-driven attempt at cost containment may be applicable to noncritical medications such as antibiotics and antihypertensives, but this policy should be reconsidered for narrow therapeutic index medications, such as tacrolimus and other immunosuppressant medications., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Racial disparity as a barrier to successful outcomes in renal transplants for African Americans has been well described. Numerous unsuccessful attempts have been made to identify specific immunologic and socioeconomic factors. The objective of our study was to determine whether alemtuzumab (AL) induction abolishes this discrepancy and improves allograft survival in African American recipients., Methods: A retrospective chart review of consecutive adult renal transplants was conducted between 2006 and 2014. Kaplan-Meier analysis and hazard ratios were calculated for the African Americans (AA) and white groups. Multiple linear regressions were performed to assess independent variables (race, retransplant, sex, donor type, induction agent) on allograft survival., Results: A significant difference in allograft survival was identified between whites (n = 272) and AA (n = 445), with AA experiencing more graft losses (18.2% vs 12.1%, P = 0.0351). Induction with AL improved outcomes in all transplant recipients. Multiple linear regression identified that the strongest predictor of allograft failure was induction without AL (P < 0.0001). The data for a subset analysis matched for follow-up length demonstrated that whites compared with AA (n = 157, 67 whites and 90 AA) had lower rates of allograft failure in the absence of AL induction (14.9% vs 44.4%, P = 0.0156, hazard ratio = 2.077). In contrast, AL induction (n = 275, 105 whites and 170 AA) eliminated the racial disparity in allograft failure (5.7% vs 9.4%, P = 0.8248, hazard ratio = 1.504)., Conclusions: This is the first study to describe the effects of AL induction therapy on AA renal transplant recipients beyond the first posttransplant year. Our early results suggest that AL induction therapy abolishes the disparity in renal allograft failure.

Importance: Specific temporal goals for treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC) are common in Europe but not in the United States. We implemented a patient-centric navigation model with an aspirational goal that all patients will receive treatment recommendations within 2 weeks of presentation as a means to improve outcomes in our patients with HNC., Objective: To assess the temporal impact of using an aspirational goal in a patient-centric navigation system on the time from presentation to formulation of treatment planning for patients with HNC., Design, Setting, and Participants: Retrospective review of 100 consecutive patients treated for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck at a tertiary referral center between 2011 and 2014. Patients were assessed to determine the efficiency of a patient-centric navigational model in delivering cancer treatment recommendations. This model was designed with an aspirational goal of providing treatment recommendations within a 2-week period., Exposure: Starting in 2011, patient-centric navigation model including the assignment of a nurse who acts as a patient navigator., Main Outcomes and Measures: The time interval between presentation to clinic and definitive treatment recommendations, as well as factors associated with delay., Results: Of the 93 patients who met inclusion requirements, most were white (81 [87%]) males (74 [80%]) with a mean (SD) age of 63.4 (10.8) years insured by Medicare or Medicaid (64 [69%]). Forty-seven (51%) received treatment recommendations within the 2-week period, with median and mode values of 15 and 14 days, respectively. The mean (SD) interval was 18.8 (18.6) days. Outliers included 2 patients with synchronous lung nodules (72 and 85 days) and 2 patients with psychosocial barriers (107 and 86 days). There were no significant differences seen for the mean (SD) time interval with respect to patient race (blacks, 17.6 [15.7] vs whites, 22.5 [30.0]; P = .20), sex (males, 18.3 [18.1] vs females, 20.4 [19.7]; P = .13), insurance status (insured, 16.3 [10.2] vs uninsured, 19.8 [21.0]; P = .24), and stage at presentation (stage I, 14.4 [17.0] vs stage II, 11.0 [5.3] vs stage III, 14.7 [8.6] vs stage IV, 21.2 [20.2]; P = .40)., Conclusions and Relevance: The goal of treatment recommendations for HNC within 2 weeks was shown to be reasonable and attainable. Further research should address the delays encountered by patients with psychosocial barriers and those with synchronous lung nodules.

Background: With the advance of modern laparoscopic technology, laparoscopic colorectal surgery and laparoscopic liver surgery are both worldwide accepted. Preliminary brief series have shown the feasibility of combined laparoscopic resection of colorectal cancer (CRC) and synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCRLM). We aim to report a large International multicenter series of laparoscopic simultaneous resection of CRC and SCRLM., Methods: Between 1997 and 2013, 142 laparoscopic liver resections were performed with simultaneous colorectal surgery for SCRLM. The surgical and postoperative variables evaluated were the duration of the intervention, blood loss, transfusion rate, conversion rate, resection margin, specific and overall morbidity, perioperative mortality, length of hospital stay, and survival. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed examining postoperative morbidity in the all cohort of patients., Results: The median number of liver lesions was 1 (1-9) and the median larger diameter at diagnosis was 28 (2-100) mm. The median operative time was 360 (120-690) min. Seven patients (4.9%) required conversion. The global morbidity was 31.0% and the mortality was 2.1%. After a median follow-up of 29 (1-108) months, 40 patients (28.2%) developed tumor recurrence. Curative treatment of recurrence was possible in 17 patients (12.0%), including a second liver resection in 13 patients (9.1%), which was performed by laparoscopy in 7 patients (4.9%). Overall 1-, 3-, and 5-year survivals were 98.8, 82.1, and 71.9%, respectively. By multivariate analysis, ASA score≥3 [OR 13.6 (1.8-99.6); P=0.01] and operative time [OR 1.008 (1.001-1.016); P=0.03] were independent predictors of postoperative morbidity., Conclusions: Our combined data show that in experienced centers, simultaneous laparoscopic approach is technically feasible, safe, and associated with good oncological outcomes.

Laparoscopic liver resection has been established as a safe and feasible treatment option. Surgical approaches include pure laparoscopy, hand-assisted laparoscopy (HALS), and the hybrid technique. The role of these three approaches, and their superiority over open laparotomy, is not yet known. A literature review was performed using specific search phrases, relating to hand-assisted or hybrid approaches to laparoscopic liver resection. Surgical results from 18 case series (HALS, nine series; hybrid technique, nine series), each with ≥ 10 patients, were analyzed. Results indicated that HALS was associated with a mean operative time of 82-264.5 min, an estimated blood loss of 82-300 mL, and a complication rate of 3.8-27.1%. Analysis of series involving the hybrid technique indicated a mean operative time of 111-366.5 min, an estimated blood loss of 93-936 mL, and a complication rate of 3.4-23.5%. In conclusion, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that any single approach is superior to the others, although HALS and the hybrid technique are useful when dealing with difficulties associated with pure laparoscopy. Conversely, the need for these two methods, which can function as a bridge to pure laparoscopic liver resection, may be overcome with appropriate training., (© 2015 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

The continuing evolution of technique and devices used in laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has allowed successful application of this minimally invasive surgery for the treatment of liver disease. However, the type of instruments by energy sources and technique used vary among each institution. We reviewed the literature to seek the best technique for parenchymal transection, which was proposed as one of the important clinical question in the 2nd International Consensus Conference on LLR held on October 2014. While publications have described transection techniques used in LLR from 1991 to June 2014, it is difficult to specify the best technique and device for laparoscopic hepatic parenchymal transection, owing to a lack of randomized trials with only a small number of comparative studies. However, it is clear that instruments should be used in combination with others based on their functions and the depth of liver resection. Most authors have reported using staplers to secure and divide major vessels. Preparation for prevention of unexpected hemorrhaging particularly in liver cirrhosis, the Pringle's maneuver and prompt technique for hemostasis should be performed. We conclude that hepatobiliary surgeons should select techniques based on their familiarity with a concrete understanding of instruments and individualize to the procedure of LLR., (© 2015 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

The use of laparoscopy for liver surgery is increasing rapidly. The Second International Consensus Conference on Laparoscopic Liver Resections (LLR) was held in Morioka, Japan, from October 4 to 6, 2014 to evaluate the current status of laparoscopic liver surgery and to provide recommendations to aid its future development. Seventeen questions were addressed. The first 7 questions focused on outcomes that reflect the benefits and risks of LLR. These questions were addressed using the Zurich-Danish consensus conference model in which the literature and expert opinion were weighed by a 9-member jury, who evaluated LLR outcomes using GRADE and a list of comparators. The jury also graded LLRs by the Balliol Classification of IDEAL. The jury concluded that MINOR LLRs had become standard practice (IDEAL 3) and that MAJOR liver resections were still innovative procedures in the exploration phase (IDEAL 2b). Continued cautious introduction of MAJOR LLRs was recommended. All of the evidence available for scrutiny was of LOW quality by GRADE, which prompted the recommendation for higher quality evaluative studies. The last 10 questions focused on technical questions and the recommendations were based on literature review and expert panel opinion. Recommendations were made regarding preoperative evaluation, bleeding controls, transection methods, anatomic approaches, and equipment. Both experts and jury recognized the need for a formal structure of education for those interested in performing major laparoscopic LLR because of the steep learning curve.

Background: The aim of this study is to compare the safety and efficacy of conventional laparotomy with those of robotic and laparoscopic approaches to hepatectomy., Database: Independent reviewers conducted a systematic review of publications in PubMed and Embase, with searches limited to comparative articles of laparoscopic hepatectomy with either conventional or robotic liver approaches. Outcomes included total operative time, estimated blood loss, length of hospitalization, resection margins, postoperative complications, perioperative mortality rates, and cost measures. Outcome comparisons were calculated using random-effects models to pool estimates of mean net differences or of the relative risk between group outcomes. Forty-nine articles, representing 3702 patients, comprise this analysis: 1901 (51.35%) underwent a laparoscopic approach, 1741 (47.03%) underwent an open approach, and 60 (1.62%) underwent a robotic approach. There was no difference in total operative times, surgical margins, or perioperative mortality rates among groups. Across all outcome measures, laparoscopic and robotic approaches showed no difference. As compared with the minimally invasive groups, patients undergoing laparotomy had a greater estimated blood loss (pooled mean net change, 152.0 mL; 95% confidence interval, 103.3-200.8 mL), a longer length of hospital stay (pooled mean difference, 2.22 days; 95% confidence interval, 1.78-2.66 days), and a higher total complication rate (odds ratio, 0.5; 95% confidence interval, 0.42-0.57)., Conclusion: Minimally invasive approaches to liver resection are as safe as conventional laparotomy, affording less estimated blood loss, shorter lengths of hospitalization, lower perioperative complication rates, and equitable oncologic integrity and postoperative mortality rates. There was no proven advantage of robotic approaches compared with laparoscopic approaches.

Currently, thyroid cancer is one of the most common endocrine cancer in the United States. A recent involvement of sub-population of stem cells, cancer stem cells, has been proposed in different histological types of thyroid cancer. Because of their ability of self-renewal and differentiation into various specialized cells in the body, these putative cells drive tumor genesis, metastatic activity and are responsible to provide chemo- and radioresistant nature to the cancer cells in the thyroid gland. Our Review was conducted from previously published literature to provide latest apprises to investigate the role of embryonic, somatic and cancer stem cells, and discusses the hypothesis of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Different methods for their identification and isolation through stemness markers using various in vivo and in vitro methods such as flow cytometry, thyrosphere formation assay, aldehyde dehydrogenase activity and ATP-binding cassette sub-family G member 2 efflux-pump mediated Hoechst 33342 dye exclusion have been discussed. The review also outlines various setbacks that still remain to target these tumor initiating cells. Future perspectives of therapeutic strategies and their potential to treat advanced stages of thyroid cancer are also disclosed in this review.

Background and Objectives: Over the years, there has been a continual shift toward more minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as the use of laparoscopy in colorectal surgery. Recently, there has been increasing adoption of robotic technology. Our study aims to compare and contrast robot-assisted and laparoscopic approaches to colorectal operations., Methods: Forty patients undergoing laparoscopic or robotic colorectal surgery performed by 2 surgeons at an academic center, regardless of indication, were included in this retrospective review. Patients undergoing open approaches were excluded. Study outcomes included operative time, estimated blood loss, length of stay, complications, and conversion rate to an open procedure., Results: Twenty-five laparoscopic and fifteen robot-assisted colorectal surgeries were performed. The mean patient age was 61.1 ± 10.7 years in the laparoscopic group compared with 61.1 ± 8.5 years in the robotic group (P = .997). Patients had a similar body mass index and history of abdominal surgery. Mean blood loss was 163.3 ± 249.2 mL and 96.8 ± 157.7 mL, respectively (P = .385). Operative times were similar, with 190.8 ± 84.3 minutes in the laparoscopic group versus 258.4 ± 170.8 minutes in the robotic group (P = .183), as were lengths of hospital stay: 9.6 ± 7.3 and 6.5 ± 3.8 days, respectively (P = .091). In addition, there was no difference in the number of lymph nodes harvested between the laparoscopic group (14.0 ± 6.5) and robotic group (12.3 ± 4.2, P = .683)., Conclusions: In our early experience, the robotic approach to colorectal surgery can be considered both safe and efficacious. Furthermore, it also preserves oncologically sufficient outcomes when performed for cancer operations.

Although minor laparoscopic liver resections (LLRs) appear as standardized procedures, major LLRs are still limited to few expert teams. The aim of this study was to report the combined data of 18 international centers performing major LLR. Variables evaluated were number and type of LLR, surgical indications, number of synchronous colorectal resections, details on technical points, conversion rates, operative time, blood loss and surgical margins. From 1996 to 2014, a total of 5388 LLR were carried out including 1184 major LLRs. The most frequent indication for laparoscopic right hepatectomy (LRH) was colorectal liver metastases (37.0%). Seven centers used hand assistance or hybrid approach selectively for LRH mostly at the beginning of their experience. Seven centers apply Pringle's maneuver routinely. The conversion rate for all major LLRs was 10% and mean operative time was 291 min. Mean estimated blood loss for all major LLR was 327 ml and negative surgical margin rate was 96.5%. Major LLRs still remain challenging procedures requiring important experience in both laparoscopy and liver surgery. Stimulating the younger generation to learn and accomplish these techniques is the better way to guarantee further development of this surgical field., (© 2014 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Six years have passed since the first International Consensus Conference on Laparoscopic Liver Resection was held. This comparatively new surgical technique has evolved since then and is rapidly being adopted worldwide. We compared the theoretical differences between open and laparoscopic liver resection, using right hepatectomy as an example. We also searched the Cochrane Library using the keyword "laparoscopic liver resection." The papers retrieved through the search were reviewed, categorized, and applied to the clinical questions that will be discussed at the 2nd Consensus Conference. The laparoscopic hepatectomy procedure is more difficult to master than the open hepatectomy procedure because of the movement restrictions imposed upon us when we operate from outside the body cavity. However, good visibility of the operative field around the liver, which is located beneath the costal arch, and the magnifying provide for neat transection of the hepatic parenchyma. Another theoretical advantage is that pneumoperitoneum pressure reduces hemorrhage from the hepatic vein. The literature search turned up 67 papers, 23 of which we excluded, leaving only 44. Two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are underway, but their results are yet to be published. Most of the studies (n = 15) concerned short-term results, with some addressing long-term results (n = 7), cost (n = 6), energy devices (n = 4), and so on. Laparoscopic hepatectomy is theoretically superior to open hepatectomy in terms of good visibility of the operative field due to the magnifying effect and reduced hemorrhage from the hepatic vein due to pneumoperitoneum pressure. However, there is as yet no evidence from previous studies to back this up in terms of short-term and long-term results. The 2nd International Consensus Conference on Laparoscopic Liver Resection will arrive at a consensus on the basis of the best available evidence, with video presentations focusing on surgical techniques and the publication of guidelines for the standardization of procedures based on the experience of experts., (© 2014 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Background and Objectives: Fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC) presents in young, otherwise-healthy individuals. This study examined recurrence and survival characteristics after surgical resection for FLC by utilizing an international multi-institutional database., Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing hepatectomy for FLC from six institutions (1993-2010) were reviewed retrospectively. Survival was studied with life tables and Cox regression models., Results: Thirty-five patients (13 female, 37%) were included (median age: 32 years). R0 resection was achieved in all curative-intent operations (n = 30), and palliative operations were performed for five patients. Crude 30-day morbidity and mortality rates were 22% and 3%, respectively. For curative-intent surgery, overall and recurrence-free survivals at 5 years were 62% and 45%, respectively. In patients who achieved a 4-year disease-free interval after surgery, none subsequently developed recurrence. In multivariate models, presence of extrahepatic disease was the only factor that independently predicted overall (hazard ratio [HR]: 5.58, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.38-22.55, P = 0.016) and recurrence-free survival (HR: 5.64, 95% CI: 1.48-21.49, P = 0.011)., Conclusions: Patients with surgically amenable FLC had encouraging long-term survival. Recurrence-free survival to 4 years suggested possible freedom from disease thereafter. Recurrent resectable disease was associated with an excellent prognosis, and repeat surgery should be strongly considered., (© 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Introduction: Patients presenting with cirrhosis and hepatic tumours represent a fragile group that have typically been avoided in early series of laparoscopic liver resection. This study was undertaken to evaluate the results of a laparoscopic hepatectomy in the setting of cirrhosis., Methods: Subgroup analysis of patients with cirrhosis within a series of 327 patients undergoing a laparoscopic resection was performed. Comparisons were made with patients without cirrhosis where appropriate to highlight differences in patient selection and outcomes. Specific variables assessed included operative details and short-term outcomes including length of stay (LOS), morbidity and mortality. Outcomes specific to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were also assessed., Results: There were 52 patients with cirrhosis undergoing a laparoscopic hepatic resection. Ninety per cent of patients were Childs class A, with a median model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score of 8. Hepatitis C was the most common cause of cirrhosis (88.5%), whereas the most common indication for an operation was HCC (71.2%). Resections were generally limited, with the median number of segments resected being 2 (range: 1-4). Complications occurred in 13 (25%) patients, with a 90-day mortality of 5.8%. The median LOS was 3 days., Conclusions: A laparoscopic hepatectomy is safe in the setting of cirrhosis, provided the application of appropriate selection criteria and sufficient experience with the procedure., (© 2013 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.)

Cutaneous metastasis from hepatobiliary tumors is a rare event, especially following liver transplantation. We report our experience with two cases of cutaneous metastases from both hepatocellular carcinoma and mixed hepatocellular/cholangiocarcinoma following liver transplantation, along with a review of the literature.

Methods: An international database of 1499 laparoscopic liver resections was analysed using multivariate and Kaplan-Meier analysis., Results: In total, 764 stapler hepatectomies (SH) were compared with 735 electrosurgical resections (ER). SH was employed in larger tumours (4.5 versus 3.8 cm; P < 0.003) with decreased operative times (2.6 versus 3.1 h; P < 0.001), blood loss (100 versus 200 cc; P < 0.001) and length of stay (3.0 versus 7.0 days; P < 0.001). SH incurred a trend towards higher complications (16% versus 13%; P = 0.057) including bile leaks (26/764, 3.4% versus 16/735, 2.2%: P = 0.091). To address group homogeneity, a subset analysis of lobar resections confirmed the benefits of SH. Kaplan-Meier analysis in non-cirrhotic and cirrhotic patients confirmed equivalent patient (P = 0.290 and 0.118) and disease-free survival (P = 0.120 and 0.268). Multivariate analysis confirmed the parenchymal transection technique did not increase the risk of cancer recurrence, whereas tumour size, the presence of cirrhosis and concomitant operations did., Conclusions: A SH provides several advantages including: diminished blood loss, transfusion requirements and shorter operative times. In spite of the smaller surgical margins in the SH group, equivalent recurrence and survival rates were observed when matched for parenchyma and extent of resection., (© 2013 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.)

Introduction: Since the inception of laparoscopic liver surgery, the left-lateral sectionectomy has become the standard of care for resection of lesions located in segments II and III. However, few centers employee laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy on a routine basis. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of the laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy as a standard of care., Methods: An international database of 1,620 laparoscopic liver resections was established and outcomes analyzed comparing the laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy (L lat) to laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy (LH). All data are presented as mean ± standard deviation., Results: A total of 222 laparoscopic L lat and 82 LH were identified. The L lat group compared with LH group had a higher incidence of cirrhosis (27 vs. 21 %; p = 0.003) and cancer (48 vs. 35 %; p = 0.043). Tumors were larger in the LH group (7.09 ± 4.2 vs. 4.89 ± 3.1 cm; p = 0.001). Operating time for LH was longer than L lat (3.9 ± 2.3 vs. 2.9 ± 1.4 h; p < 0.001). Operative blood loss was higher in LH (306 vs. 198 cc; p = 0.003). Patient morbidity (20 vs. 18 %; p = 0.765) was equivalent with a longer length of stay (7.1 ± 5.1 vs. 2.5 ± 2.3 days; p < 0.001) for LH. Patient mortality and tumor recurrence were equivalent., Conclusions: Laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy is a more technically challenging and often time-consuming procedure than a left-lateral sectionectomy. This international multi-institutional confirmed that intraoperative blood loss, complications, and conversions are more than acceptable for laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy in expert hands. Postoperative morbidity and mortality rates together with adequate surgical margins and long-term recurrence are not compromised by the laparoscopic approach.

Liver metastases occur in 75% to 80% of patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), and are considered significant adverse prognostic indicators. Management of NETs liver metastases is challenging and requires aggressive therapy. Currently, there are many therapeutic options for metastatic NETs. However, there is considerable controversy regarding the optimal management. Although complete surgical resection remains the optimal therapy, a variety of other minimally invasive surgical and medical options are available, this includes thermal ablative techniques (e.g., radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, cryotherapy), embolization using transcatheter embolization, chemoembolization, or radioembolization, and medical therapy (e.g., chemotherapy, biotherapy with somatostatin analogues and interferon). Currently there is no evidence-based data directly comparing surgical versus alternative liver-directed treatment options. An aggressive surgical approach, coupled with additional liver-directed procedures is often recommended as it extends the overall survival. Optimal patient care should be directed by a multidisciplinary team to assure that all treatment options are explored for decision-making while treating this aggressive disease.

Background and Objective: Robotic-assisted surgery offers a solution to fundamental limitations of conventional laparoscopic surgery, and its use is gaining wide popularity. However, the application of this technology has yet to be established in hepatic surgery., Methods: A retrospective analysis of our prospectively collected liver surgery database was performed. Over a 6-month period, all consecutive patients who underwent robotic-assisted hepatic resection for a liver neoplasm were included. Demographics, operative time, and morbidity encountered were evaluated., Results: A total of 7 robotic-assisted liver resections were performed, including 2 robotic-assisted single-port access liver resections with the da Vinci-Si Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical Sunnyvalle, Calif.) USA. The mean age was 44.6 years (range, 21-68 years); there were 5 male and 2 female patients. The mean operative time (± SD) was 61.4 ± 26.7 minutes; the mean operative console time (± SD) was 38.2 ± 23 minutes. No conversions were required. The mean blood loss was 100.7 mL (range, 10-200 mL). The mean hospital stay (± SD) was 2 ± 0.4 days. No postoperative morbidity related to the procedure or death was encountered., Conclusion: Our initial experience with robotic liver resection confirms that this technique is both feasible and safe. Robotic-assisted technology appears to improve the precision and ergonomics of single-access surgery while preserving the known benefits of laparoscopic surgery, including cosmesis, minimal morbidity, and faster recovery.

Background: We sought to compare the outcomes in patients with hepatic carcinoid tumor metastases treated with open versus laparoscopic liver resection., Methods: A retrospective analysis of our liver surgery database was performed. All patients who underwent liver resection for hepatic carcinoid tumor metastases were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the surgical approach. Patients with concomitant primary and metastatic liver lesions underwent open resection., Results: Thirty-six patients underwent resection over a 10-year period (21 open and 15 laparoscopic). Both groups were similar in terms of gender, body mass index, tumor size, incidence of carcinoid syndrome, and extent of resection (P > .05). The laparoscopic group had less mean operative time (2.7 vs 5.4 hours), less mean blood loss (158.3 vs 538.9 mL), and a shorter hospital stay (3.2 vs 7.5 days; P < .05 for all). Complications were similar in both groups (20% vs 33%; P = .21). Two laparoscopic cases required conversion. The 3-year disease-free survival for the laparoscopic group was 73.3% compared to 47.6% for the open group (P = .2)., Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first reported study comparing laparoscopic versus open liver resection in the treatment of liver metastases from carcinoid tumors. Our series confirms that selective cases can safely be managed laparoscopically., (Copyright © 2012 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: The role of socioeconomic factors that affect survival, particularly for hepatocellular cancer (HCC), has yet to be fully analyzed. This study attempts to elucidate those racial and socioeconomic factors that affect differences in survival for patients with HCC., Methods: In a retrospective cohort study of 206 patients with HCC diagnosed in an inner-city urban center from 2003 to 2011, outcomes by race (African Americans versus white) were analyzed. Additional attention was paid to socioeconomic factors. Continuous variables were compared with the Student t-test, and categorical variables were compared with the χ(2) or Fisher exact test. Multivariate analysis was conducted using a logistic regression model. Patient death and survival data were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards., Results: Comparison of 138 white and 68 African-American patients revealed that African-American patients were more likely to present with larger tumor size at the time of diagnosis (4.7 vs 3.7 cm; P < .05). African-American patients were also more likely to be intravenous drug users (25.4% vs 11.6%; P < .05) and have cirrhosis from hepatitis C (81% vs 60%; P < .01). African-American patients were less likely to have private insurance compared with white patients (68% vs 92%; P < .01). Despite these findings in our inner-city practice, there was no difference in liver transplantation rates or survival rates between the 2 groups., Conclusion: Despite presentation with less-favorable tumor characteristics, African-American patients are able to achieve survival that is comparable with their white counterparts when treated in a program that is attuned to the challenges faced by their specific population., (Copyright © 2012 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)