Efficacy and safety of percutaneous transhepatic biliary radiofrequency ablation in patients with malignant obstructive jaundice

BACKGROUND Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiodrainage(PTCD)and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography/endoscopic nasobiliary drainage are the most common clinical procedures for jaundice control in patients with unresectable malignant obstructive jaundice,yet the safety and effect of endobiliary radiofrequency ablation(EB-RFA)combined PTCD is rarely reported,in this article,we report our experience of EB-RFA combined PTCD in such patients.AIM To retrospectively study the efficacy and safety of EB-RFA combined PTCD in patients with unresectable malignant obstructive jaundice.METHODS Patients with unresectable malignant obstructive jaundice treated with EB-RFA under PTCD were selected,the bile ducts of the right posterior lobe was selected as the target bile ducts in all cases.The general conditions of all patients,preoperative tumour markers,total bilirubin(TBIL),direct bilirubin(DBIL),albumin(ALB),alkaline phosphatase(ALP),and glutamyl transferase(GGT)before and on the 7th day after the procedure,as well as perioperative complications,stent patency time and patient survival were recorded.RESULTS All patients successfully completed the operation,TBIL and DBIL decreased significantly in all patients at the 7th postoperative day(P=0.009 and 0.006,respectively);the values of ALB,ALP and GGT also decreased compared with the preoperative period,but the difference was not statistically significant.Perioperative biliary bleeding occurred in 2 patients,which was improved after transfusion of blood and other conservative treatments,pancreatitis appeared in 1 patient after the operation,no serious complication and death happened after operation.Except for 3 patients with loss of visits,the stent patency rate of the remaining 14 patients was 100%71%and 29%at the 1^(st),3^(rd),and 6^(th)postoperative months respectively,with a median survival of 4 months.CONCLUSION EB-RFA under PTCD in patients with unresectable malignant obstructive jaundice has a satisfactory therapeutic effect and high safety,which is worthy of further clinical practice.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage vs percutaneous transhepatic bile duct drainage in the management of malignant obstructive jaundice

BACKGROUND Malignant obstructive jaundice(MOJ)is a condition characterized by varying degrees of bile duct stenosis and obstruction,accompanied by the progressive development of malignant tumors,leading to high morbidity and mortality rates.Currently,the two most commonly employed methods for its management are percutaneous transhepatic bile duct drainage(PTBD)and endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage(EUS-BD).While both methods have demonstrated favorable outcomes,additional research needs to be performed to determine their relative efficacy.To compare the therapeutic effectiveness of EUS-BD and PTBD in treating MOJ.METHODS This retrospective analysis,conducted between September 2015 and April 2023 at The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University(The First People’s Hospital of Changzhou),involved 68 patients with MOJ.The patients were divided into two groups on the basis of surgical procedure received:EUS-BD subgroup(n=33)and PTBD subgroup(n=35).Variables such as general data,preoperative and postoperative indices,blood routine,liver function indices,myocardial function indices,operative success rate,clinical effectiveness,and complication rate were analyzed and compared between the subgroups.RESULTS In the EUS-BD subgroup,hospital stay duration,bile drainage volume,effective catheter time,and clinical effect-iveness rate were superior to those in the PTBD subgroup,although the differences were not statistically significant(P>0.05).The puncture time for the EUS-BD subgroup was shorter than that for the PTBD subgroup(P<0.05).Postoperative blood routine,liver function index,and myocardial function index in the EUS-BD subgroup were significantly lower than those in the PTBD subgroup(P<0.05).Additionally,the complication rate in the EUS-BD subgroup was lower than in the PTBD subgroup(P<0.05).CONCLUSION EUS-BD may reduce the number of punctures,improve liver and myocardial functions,alleviate traumatic stress,and decrease complication rates in MOJ treatment.

Application of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for treatment of obstructive jaundice after hepatoblastoma surgery:A case report

BACKGROUND We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopan-creatography(ERCP)for treating obstructive jaundice(OJ)post hepatoblastoma(HB)surgery(post-HB OJ)by analyzing the data of a case and performing a literature review.CASE SUMMARY Clinical data of one patient with post-HB OJ treated by ERCP were retrospectively analyzed.Furthermore,clinical characteristics and insights into the diagnosis and treatment of post-HB OJ in children were summarized via searching various databases and platforms,such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure,Wanfang database,CQVIP database,PubMed,Ringer Link,and Google Scholar.The patient reported herein underwent five chemotherapy sessions after the diagnosis of HB and right hemihepatectomy after tumor size reduction;these were followed by two postoperative chemotherapy sessions.Three months postoperatively,the patient developed icteric sclera,strong tea-colored urine,and clay-like stools,and showed signs of skin itchiness;blood analysis showed significantly an increased conjugated bilirubin(CB)level(200.3μmol/L).Following the poor efficacy of anti-jaundice and hepatoprotective treatments,the patient underwent ERCP.Intraoperative imaging showed a dilated bile duct in the porta hepatis with significant distal stenosis.A 5 Fr nasopancreatic tube was placed in the dilated area through the stricture for external drainage,and the patient was extubated on postoperative day 6.Postoperatively,the patient’s stool turned yellow,and the CB level decreased to 78.2μmol/L.Fifteen days later,ERCP was repeated due to unrelieved jaundice symptoms,wherein a 7 Fr naso-biliary drainage tube was successfully placed.Three months post-ERCP,the jaundice symptoms resolved,and the CB level was reduced to 33.2μmol/L.A follow-up examination one year postoperatively revealed no jaundice symptoms and normal CB level.CONCLUSION Post-HB OJ is rare.Compared to biliary tract reconstruction,ERCP is less invasive and has a better therapeutic effect.

Effectiveness of a new approach to minimally invasive surgery in palliative treatment of patients with distal malignant biliary obstruction

BACKGROUND Palliative endoscopic biliary drainage is the primary treatment option for the management of patients with jaundice which results from distal malignant biliary obstruction(DMBO).In this group of patients,decompression of the bile duct(BD)allows for pain reduction,symptom relief,chemotherapy administration,improved quality of life,and increased survival rate.To reduce the unfavorable effects of BD decompression,minimally invasive surgical techniques require continuous improvement.AIM To develop a technique for internal-external biliary-jejunal drainage(IEBJD)and assess its effectiveness in comparison to other minimally invasive procedures in the palliative treatment of patients with DMBO.METHODS A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed,which included 134 patients with DMBO who underwent palliative BD decompression.Biliary-jejunal drainage was developed to divert bile from the BD directly into the initial loops of the small intestine to prevent duodeno-biliary reflux.IEBJD was carried out using percutaneous transhepatic access.Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage(PTBD),endoscopic retrograde biliary stenting(ERBS),and internal-external transpapillary biliary drainage (IETBD) were used for the treatment of studypatients. Endpoints of the study were the clinical success of the procedure, the frequency andnature of complications, and the cumulative survival rate.RESULTSThere were no significant differences in the frequency of minor complications between the studygroups. Significant complications occurred in 5 (17.2%) patients in the IEBJD group, in 16 (64.0%)in the ERBS group, in 9 (47.4%) in the IETBD group, and in 12 (17.4%) in the PTBD group.Cholangitis was the most common severe complication. In the IEBJD group, the course ofcholangitis was characterized by a delayed onset and shorter duration as compared to other studygroups. The cumulative survival rate of patients who underwent IEBJD was 2.6 times higher incomparison to those of the PTBD and IETBD groups and 20% higher in comparison to that of theERBS group.CONCLUSIONIEBJD has advantages over other minimally invasive BD decompression techniques and can berecommended for the palliative treatment of patients with DMBO.

Pathophysiological consequences of obstructive jaundice and perioperative management

Background: Obstructive jaundice is a common problem in daily clinical practice. Understanding completely the pathophysiological changes in obstructive jaundice remains a challenge for planning current and future management.Data sources: A Pub Med was searched for relevant articles published up to August 2016. The effect of obstructive jaundice on proinflammatory cytokines, coagulation status, hemodynamics and organ functions were evaluated.Results: The effects of obstructive jaundice included biliary tree, the hepatic cell and liver function as well as systemic complications. The lack of bile in the gut, the disruption of the intestinal mucosal barrier,the increased absorption of endotoxin and the subsequent endotoxemia cause proinflammatory cytokine production(TNF-α, IL-6). Bilirubin induces systemic inflammatory response syndrome which may lead to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. The principal clinical manifestations include hemodynamic instability and acute renal failure, cardiovascular suppression, immune compromise, coagulation disorders,nutritional impairment, and wound healing defect. The proper management includes full replacement of water and electrolyte deficiency, prophylactic antibiotics, lactulose, vitamin K and fresh frozen plasma,albumin and dopamine. The preoperative biliary drainage has not been indicated in overall, but only in a few selected cases.Conclusion: The perioperative management is an essential measure in improving the outcome after the appropriate surgical operation in jaundiced patients especially those with malignancy.

Endobiliary radiofrequency ablation for malignant biliary obstruction

BACKGROUND: The cornerstone of palliative treatment for inoperable extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is the relief of malignant biliary obstruction. The most commonly applied method is endoscopic stenting. However, the procedure can be complicated with stent obstruction. In this respect, endobiliary radiofrequency ablation may serve as an adjunctive tool for prolonging the stent patency. METHODS: Patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for differential diagnosis and/ or palliative treatment after the diagnosis of inoperable extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma between March 2011 and January 2012 were analyzed. Those in whom endobiliary radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic stenting was successfully performed were included in the study. Technical details of the procedure, duration of stent patency, length of hospital stay, short-term morbidity and mortality rate were documented. RESULTS: Seventeen patients were analyzed, and 10 patients were included in the study. The morbidity and mortality rate within the first 30 days after the procedure was 20% and 0%, respectively. In 2 patients, mild pancreatitis occurred because of the endobiliary procedure. In 1 patient, endobiliary decompression could not be achieved, and therefore, percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage was carried out. The median duration of stent patency in 9 patients with successful biliary decompression was 9 months (range 6-15). CONCLUSION: Endobiliary radiofrequency ablation seems to be safe and feasible as a palliative measure and may prolong the stent patency and overall survival in patients with malignant biliary obstruction due to inoperable extrahepatic cholangio-carcinoma.

Effect of postoperative early enteral nutrition on clinical outcomes and immune function of cholangiocarcinoma patients with malignant obstructive jaundice

BACKGROUND Most cholangiocarcinoma patients with malignant obstructive jaundice(MOJ)have varying degrees of malnutrition and immunodeficiency preoperatively.Therefore,perioperative nutritional support has important clinical significance in the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma.AIM To investigate the effects of postoperative early enteral nutrition(EEN)on immunity function and clinical outcomes of cholangiocarcinoma patients with MOJ.METHODS This prospective clinical study included 60 cholangiocarcinoma patients with MOJ who underwent surgery.The patients were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group according to the nutrition support modes.The control group received postoperative total parenteral nutrition(TPN),whereas the experimental group received postoperative EEN and parenteral nutrition(PN;EEN+PN).The clinical outcomes,postoperative immune function,incidences of surgical site infection and bile leakage,intestinal function recovery time,average hospitalization days,and hospitalization expenses of the two groups were assessed on postoperative days(PODs)1,3,and 7.RESULTS The CD3+T,CD4+T,CD8+T,and CD4+T/CD8+T cell count and the immunoglobulin(Ig)G,IgM,and IgA levels in the EEN+PN group were significantly higher than those in the TPN group on PODs 3 and 7(P<0.05),whereas no significant differences in the CD3+T,CD4+T,CD8+T,and CD4+T/CD8+T cell counts and IgG,IgM,and IgA levels before operation and on POD 1 were found between the two groups(P>0.05).The intestinal function recovery time and postoperative hospital stay were shorter(P<0.001 for both)in the EEN+PN group than in the TPN group.The hospitalization expenses of the EEN+PN group were lower than those of the TPN group(P<0.001).However,the incidence of abdominal distension was higher than in the EEN+PN group than in the TPN group(P<0.05).The incidence rates of biliary leakage and surgical site infection were not significantly different between the two groups(P>0.05).CONCLUSION A postoperative EEN program could reduce the incidence of postoperative complications and improve the clinical outcomes and immune functions of cholangiocarcinoma patients with MOJ and is thus beneficial to patient recovery.

Biliary drainage for obstructive jaundice caused by unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: the endoscopic versus percutaneous approach

BACKGROUND: For palliative treatment of the obstructive jaundice associated with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) or endoscopic retrograde biliary drainage (ERBD) has been performed. PTBD is preferred as an initial procedure. Little is known about the better option for patients with obstructive jaundice caused by unresectable HCC. METHODS: Sixty patients who had received ERBD or PTBD for the palliative treatment of obstructive jaundice caused by unresectable HCC between January 2006 and May 2010 were included in this retrospective study. Successful drainage, drainage patency, and the overall survival of patients were evaluated. RESULTS: Univariate analysis revealed that the overall frequency of successful drainage was higher in the ERBD group (22/29, 75.9%) than in the PTBD group (15/31, 48.4%) (P=0.029); but multivariate analysis showed marginal significance (P=0.057). The duration of drainage patency was longer in the ERBD group than in the PTBD group (82 vs 37 days, respectively, P=0.020). Regardless of what procedure was performed, the median survival time of patients who had a successful drainage was much longer than that of the patients who did not have a successful drainage (143 vs 38 days, respectively, P<0.001).CONCLUSION: Besides PTBD, ERBD may be used as the initial treatment option to improve obstructive jaundice in patients with unresectable HCC if there is a longer duration of drainage patency after a successful drainage.

Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy using novel magnetic compressive anastomats in canine model of obstructive jaundice

BACKGROUND:The traditional hand-sewn Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy is technically complicated,and the incidence of postoperative complications has remained high.A set of novel magnetic compressive anastomats was introduced to facilitate choledochojejunostomy and improve the prognosis of patients.METHODS:After ligating the common bile duct for 7 days,16 dogs were randomly divided into two groups (n=8 per group).Anastomats were used in the study group,and the traditional hand-sewn method was used in the control group for standard Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy.We compared the operation time,incidence of complications,gross appearance,and pathological disparity in stoma between the two groups in 1-month and 3-month follow-up examinations.RESULTS:The time spent on constructing the anastomosis for the study group was significantly shortened.Although no anastomotic stenosis occurred in the two groups,the narrowing rate of biliary-enteric anastomosis was much higher in the control group.There was one case of bile leakage in the control group,whereas no bile leakage occurred in the study group.A smoother surface,an improved layer apposition,and a lower local inflammatory response were identified in the anastomosis of the study group.CONCLUSION:The structures of the novel magnetic compressive anastomats are simple,and they are time-saving,safe and efficient for performing Roux-en-Y choledocho- jejunostomy procedures in a canine model of obstructive jaundice.

Biliary stent combined with iodine-125 seed strand implantation in malignant obstructive jaundice

BACKGROUND Malignant obstructive jaundice is mainly caused by cholangiocarcinoma.Only a few patients are indicated for surgical resection,and the 3-year survival rate is<50%.For patients who are not eligible for surgery,biliary stent placement can relieve biliary obstruction and improve liver function and quality of life.However,restenosis after biliary stents has a poor prognosis and is a clinical challenge.Biliary stent combined with iodine-125(125I)seed implantation can prolong stent patency and improve survival.AIM To evaluate the safety and efficacy of biliary stent combined with 125I seed strand implantation in malignant obstructive jaundice.METHODS We enrolled 67 patients between January 2016 and June 2018 with malignant obstructive jaundice and randomized them into a biliary stent combined with 125I seed strand treatment(combined)group(n=32)and biliary stent(control)group(n=35).All patients underwent enhanced computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging and were tested for biochemical and cancer markers.Twelve patients underwent pathological examination before surgery.All patients were followed up by telephone or clinical visit.Postoperative liver function improvement,postoperative complications,stent patency time,and survival time were compared between the two groups.Prognostic risk factors were evaluated.RESULTS Technical success was achieved in all patients in both groups.Postoperative liver function improved significantly in all patients(total bilirubin,direct bilirubin,alanine aminotransferase,and aspartate aminotransferase decreased significantly in all patients,the P values were less than 0.05).There was no significant difference in preoperative or postoperative indexes between the two groups for changes in total bilirubin(P=0.147),direct bilirubin(P=0.448),alanine aminotransferase(P=0.120),and aspartate aminotransferase(P=0.387)between the two groups.The median stent patency time of the combined group was 9.0±1.4 mo[95%confidence interval(CI):6.3-11.8 mo],which was significantly longer than the that of the control group(6.0±0.3 mo,95%CI:5.5-6.5 mo,P=0.000).The median survival time of the combined group was 11.0±1.4 mo(95%CI:8.2-13.7 mo),which was significantly longer than that of the control group(7.0±0.3 mo,95%CI:6.4-7.6 mo,P=0.000).Location of obstruction and number of stents were independent risk factors affecting prognosis.CONCLUSION Biliary stent combined with 125I seed strand implantation is safe and effective in malignant obstructive jaundice and improves stent patency time and median survival time.

Profile of hepatocyte apoptosis and bile lakes before and after bile duct decompression in severe obstructive jaundice patients

BACKGROUND:Excessive hepatocyte apoptosis and bile lakes in severe obstructive jaundice might impair liver functions.Although decompression of the bile duct has been reported to improve liver functions in animal studies,the mechanism of obstruction differs from that in humans.This study aimed to determine the profiles of hepatocyte apoptosis and bile lakes following bile duct decompression in patients with severe obstructive jaundice in the clinical setting.METHODS:We conducted a 'before and after study' on severe obstructive jaundice patients as a model of inhibition of the excessive process by bile duct decompression.Specimens of liver biopsies were taken before and after decompression of the bile duct and then stained by terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling(TUNEL) to identify hepatocyte apoptosis and by hematoxilin-eosin(HE) to identify bile lakes.All measurements were independently done by 2 observers.RESULTS:Twenty-one severe obstructive jaundice patients were included.In all patients,excessive hepatocyte apoptosis and bile lakes were apparent.After decompression,the hepatocyte apoptosis index decreased from 53.1(SD 105) to 11.7(SD 13.6)(P<0.05),and the bile lakes from 23.6(SD 14.8) to 10.9(SD 6.9)(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Bile duct decompression improves hepatocyte apoptosis and bile lakes in cases of severe obstructive jaundice,similar to the findings in animal studies.

Obstructive jaundice in Iran:factors affecting early outcome

BACKGROUND:Understanding any factors which influence the morbidity and mortality in patients with obstructive jaundice in each society will better guide appropriate management and lead to improved survival This study aimed to assess baseline etiologies,clinical manifestations,diagnostic results,and morbidity and mortality related to obstructive jaundice in Iranian patients. METHODS:The hospital recorded files of 133 patients with the final diagnosis of obstructive jaundice who had been admitted to the Taleqhani Hospital in Tehran between January 2001 and September 2004 were reviewed. RESULTS:The most common etiologies of obstructive jaundices were neoplasia and then common bile duct stone in the two genders.The results of ultrasonography were positive in less than half of the patients.However,the most positive results were related to endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP).The in-hospital mortality rate in patients less than 50 years old and elderly patients was 0%and 6.76%,respectively.The in-hospital morbidity rate was 2.25%and 7.51%,respectively in both patients and it was commonly related to infection of ulcer (44.46%),pneumonia(14.75%),myocardial infarction (14.75%),and subdiaphragmatic abscess(11.29%).In patients with a diagnosis of benign obstruction,only one patient died of severe sepsis.In malignant group preoperative characteristics,such as weight loss(P=0.015) and serum bilirubin concentration more than 16 mg/dl and postoperative complications,such as sepsis(P<0.001) cardiac arrest(P<0.001),and hepatic coma(P<0.001)were main predictors for the in-hospital mortality rate.CONCLUSION:Although the mortality and morbidity of obstructive jaundice in our study are less than those in other studies,the determination of preoperative clinical and laboratory indices and postoperative complications of patients is needed for the control of mortality and morbidity rate.

Incidence and risk factors of pancreatitis in obstructive jaundice patients after percutaneous placement of self-expandable metallic stents

Background:Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage is an alternative treatment for patients with malignant distal biliary obstruction.The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of pancreatitis in patients who had undergone percutaneous placement of a biliary stent and to assess the risk factors for pancreatitis and the treatment outcomes.Methods:From January 2010 to October 2016,980 patients in our hospital who underwent percutaneous placements of self-expandable metallic stents for obstructive jaundice were retrospectively analyzed.The incidence of pancreatitis and risk factors were assessed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Therapeutics,such as somatostatin,which were also adminstrated to release the symptom and promote the restoration of normal function of pancreas,were also analyzed.Results:Pancreatitis occurred in 45(4.6%)patients.One patient died from severe acute pancreatitis.Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that common bile duct stent placement was the only independent risk factor that related to pancreatitis(odds ratio=2.096,95%CI:1.248–5.379;P=0.002).By using somatostatin,the concentrations of serum amylase and lipase were decreased in 44 patients with pancreatitis.No major complications were found during the treatment.Conclusions:Pancreatitis is a relatively low complication of percutaneous placement of biliary stents.The common bile duct stent placement is the only independent risk factor that related to pancreatitis.In this case,the percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage is a preferred method for treatment.Furthermore,somatostatin is a secure and efficacious method to release the symptom and promote the restoration of pancreatic function.

Effects of glutamine and curcumin on bacterial translocation in jaundiced rats

AIM: To investigate the effect of curcumin on bacterial translocation and oxidative damage in an obstructive jaundice model and compare the results to glutamine, an agent known to be effective and clinically used. METHODS: Twenty-four female Wistar-Albino rats, weighing 200-250 g, were randomly divided into three groups (8 in each group). After ligation of the common bile duct in all animals, GroupⅠ received oral normal saline, Group Ⅱ received oral glutamine and Group Ⅲ received oral curcumin for seven days. Blood samples via cardiac puncture, tissue samples (terminal ileum, liver and mesenteric lymph node) and peritoneal fluid were obtained from the animals at the time of death to investigate bacterial translocation and oxidative damage. RESULTS: We observed that both glutamine and curcumin reduced bacterial translocation in blood, hepatocellular damage, plasma cytokine levels, oxidative tissue damage and apoptosis significantly compared to the control group. Additionally, glutamine showed protective effects on ileal epithelium and reduced villus atrophy. CONCLUSION: On the basis of these findings, both curcumin and glutamine are thought to be effective in preventing or reducing bacterial translocation and oxidative damage in obstructive jaundice.

Decreased hepatic peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ contributes to increased sensitivity to endotoxin in obstructive jaundice

AIM: To investigate the role of hepatic peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) in increased susceptibility to endotoxin-induced toxicity in rats with bile duct ligation during endotoxemia.METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to bile duct ligation (BDL). Sham-operated animals served as controls. DNA binding were determined by polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting analysis,and electrophoretic mobility shift assay, respectively.BDL and sham-operated rats received a non-lethal dose of intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection (3 mg/kg, i.p.). Additionally, the potential beneficial effects of the PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone were determined in BDL and sham-operated rats treated with a non-lethal dose of LPS. Survival was assessed in BDL rats treated with a non-lethal dose of LPS and in sham-operatedrats treated at a lethal dose of LPS (6 mg/kg, i.p.).RESULTS: PPAR-γ activity in rats undergoing BDL wassignificantly lower than in the sham-controls. Hepatic PPAR-γ gene expression was downregulated at both them RNA and protein levels. In a parallel group, serumlevels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were nearly unde-tectable in the sham-operated rats. When challenged with a non-lethal dose of LPS (3 mg/kg), the BDL ratshad approximately a 2.4-fold increase in serum IL-6,a 2.7 fold increase in serum TNF-α, 2.2-fold increasein serum IL-1 and 4.2-fold increase in serum ALT. Thesurvival rate was significantly lower as compared with that in sham-operated group. Additionally, rosiglitazone significantly reduced the concentration of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and ALT in sham-operated rats, but not in BDL rats, in response to LPS (3 mg/kg). Also, the survival was improved by rosiglita zone in sham-operated rats challenged with a lethal dose of LPS, but not in BDL rats, even with a non-lethal dose of LPS (3 mg/kg).CONCLUSION: Obstructive jaundice downregulates hepatic PPAR-γ expression, which in turn may contributeto hypersensitivity towards endotoxin.

Quality of survival in patients treated for malignant biliary obstruction caused by unresectable pancreatic head cancer: surgical versus non-surgical palliation

BACKGROUND:Appropriate palliation for unresectable pancreatic head cancer is most important.This study was undertaken to compare the survival of patients with biliary obstruction caused by unresectable pancreatic head cancer after surgical and non-surgical palliation. METHODS:We retrospectively reviewed 69 patients who underwent palliative treatment for unresectable pancreatic head cancer.Fifty-two patients with locally advanced disease (local vascular invasion)and 17 with distant metastatic disease were included.The patients were divided into two groups,surgical and non-surgical palliation. RESULTS:Thirty-eight patients underwent biliary bypass surgery and 31 had percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage(PTBD).There was no significant difference in the early complications,successful biliary drainage, recurrent jaundice,and 30-day mortality between surgical palliation and PTBD.However,in 52 patients whose tumor was unresectable secondary to local vascular invasion,the rate of recurrent jaundice after successful surgical biliary palliation was lower than that in patients who had non- surgical palliation(P<0.05).The patients who underwent surgical palliation had a longer hospital-free survival rate(P<0.001),although they had a longer postoperative hospital stay(P=0.004)during the first admission period.CONCLUSIONS:In patients with preoperative evaluations showing potentially resectable tumors and/or no metastatic lesions,surgical exploration should be performed.Thus,in patients who have unresectable cancer or limited metastatic disease on exploration,surgical palliation should be performed for longer survival and better quality of survival.

The mechanism of Yinchenhao decoction in treating obstructivejaundice- induced liver injury based on Nrf2 signaling pathway

BACKGROUND Obstructive jaundice(OJ)is caused by bile excretion disorder after partial or complete bile duct obstruction.It may cause liver injury through various mechanisms.Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has a lot of advantages in treating OJ.The recovery of liver function can be accelerated by combining Chinese medicine treatment with existing clinical practice.Yinchenhao decoction(YCHD),a TCM formula,has been used to treat jaundice.Although much progress has been made in recent years in understanding the mechanism of YCHD in treating OJ-induced liver injury,it is still not clear.AIM To investigate chemical components of YCHD that are effective in the treatment of OJ and predict the mechanism of YCHD.METHODS The active components and putative targets of YCHD were predicted using a network pharmacology approach.Gene Ontology biological process and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes path enrichment analysis were carried out by cluster profile.We predicted the biological processes,possible targets,and associated signaling pathways that YCHD may involve in the treatment of OJ.Thirty male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups,each consisting of 10 rats:the sham group(Group S),the OJ model group(Group M),and the YCHDtreated group(Group Y).The sham group only received laparotomy.The OJ model was established by ligating the common bile duct twice in Groups M and Y.For 1 wk,rats in Group Y were given a gavage of YCHD(3.6 mL/kg)twice daily,whereas rats in Groups S and M were given the same amount of physiological saline after intragastric administration daily.After 7 d,all rats were killed,and the liver and blood samples were collected for histopathological and biochemical examinations.Total bilirubin(TBIL),direct bilirubin(DBIL),alanine aminotransferase(ALT),and aspartate transaminase(AST)levels in the blood samples were detected.The gene expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)and endothelial nitric oxide synthase(eNOS),and the nucleus positive rate of NF-E2 related factor 2(Nrf2)protein were measured.Western blot analyses were used to detect the protein and gene expression levels of Nrf2,Kelchlike ECH-associated protein 1,NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1(NQO1),and glutathione-Stransferase(GST)in the liver tissues.One-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate the statistical differences using the statistical package for the social sciences 23.0 software.Intergroup comparisons were followed by the least significant difference test and Dunnett’s test.RESULTS The effects of YCHD on OJ involve biological processes such as DNA transcription factor binding,RNA polymerase II specific regulation,DNA binding transcriptional activator activity,and nuclear receptor activity.The protective effects of YCHD against OJ were closely related to 20 pathways,including the hepatitis-B,the mitogen-activated protein kinase,the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B,and tumor necrosis factor signaling pathways.YCHD alleviated the swelling and necrosis of hepatocytes.Following YCHD treatment,the serum levels of TBIL(176.39±17.03μmol/L vs 132.23±13.88μmol/L,P<0.01),DBIL(141.41±14.66μmol/L vs 106.43±10.88μmol/L,P<0.01),ALT(332.07±34.34 U/L vs 269.97±24.78 U/L,P<0.05),and AST(411.44±47.64 U/L vs 305.47±29.36 U/L,P<0.01)decreased.YCHD promoted the translocation of Nrf2 into the nucleus(12.78±0.99%vs 60.77±1.90%,P<0.001).After YCHD treatment,we found a decrease in iNOS(0.30±0.02 vs 0.20±0.02,P<0.001)and an increase in eNOS(0.18±0.02 vs 0.32±0.02,P<0.001).Meanwhile,in OJ rats,YCHD increased the expressions of Nrf2(0.57±0.03 vs 1.18±0.10,P<0.001),NQO1(0.13±0.09 vs 1.19±0.07,P<0.001),and GST(0.12±0.02 vs 0.50±0.05,P<0.001),implying that the potential mechanism of YCHD against OJ-induced liver injury was the upregulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway.CONCLUSION OJ-induced liver injury is associated with the Nrf2 signaling pathway.YCHD can reduce liver injury and oxidative damage by upregulating the Nrf2 pathway.

Malignant biliary obstruction due to metastatic non-hepatopancreato-biliary cancer

Malignant biliary obstruction generally results from primary malignancies of the pancreatic head,bile duct,gallbladder,liver,and ampulla of Vater.Metastatic lesions from other primaries to these organs or nearby lymph nodes are rarer causes of biliary obstruction.The most common primaries include renal cancer,lung cancer,gastric cancer,colorectal cancer,breast cancer,lymphoma,and melanoma.They may be difficult to differentiate from primary hepato-pancreatobiliary cancer based on imaging studies,or even on biopsy.There is also no consensus on the optimal method of treatment,including the feasibility and effectiveness of endoscopic intervention or surgery.A thorough review of the literature on pancreato-biliary metastases and malignant biliary obstruction due to metastatic non-hepato-pancreato-biliary cancer is presented.The diagnostic modality and clinical characteristics may differ significantly depending on the type of primary cancer.Different primaries also cause malignant biliary obstruction in different ways,including direct invasion,pancreatic or biliary metastasis,hilar lymph node metastasis,liver metastasis,and peritoneal carcinomatosis.Metastasectomy may hold promise for some types of pancreato-biliary metastases.This review aims to elucidate the current knowledge in this area,which has received sparse attention in the past.The aging population,advances in diagnostic imaging,and improved treatment options may lead to an increase in these rare occurrences going forward.

Effect of obstructive jaundice on hemodynamics in the liver and its clinical significance

BACKGROUND: Many diseases can cause obstructive jaundice and then lead to a series of pathologic disorders. Thus preoperative assessment of liver function is of utmost importance. Traditional assessment is to monitor related indicators of liver function, but it is invasive and needs to be performed repeatedly. Color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) was used to monitor blood flow of the hepatic artery and portal vein, a non-invasive method which can be used repeatedly. METHODS: Twenty cases of obstructive jaundice were detected by CDFI and changes of liver function were measured after operation. The variables of hemodynamic monitoring included peak flow rate and mean blood flow in the hepatic artery proper at the peak of the contraction period; the inner diameter of blood vessels, the peak flow rate, and the congestion index, the blood flow in the main portal vein. RESULTS: The average peak flow rate in the hepatic artery of patients with obstructive jaundice was significantly higher than that of normal people; both the inner diameter and congestive index of the portal vein were significantly larger than those of normal people. But the mean blood flow and peak flow rate in the portal vein were lower than those of normal people. CONCLUSIONS: CDFI is an ideal and non-invasive method for evaluating liver hemodynamics in obstructive jaundice. If the increase of hepatic arterial flow is more significant than the decrease of the blood flow in the portal vein, hepatic functional recovery after operation is smoother, suggesting a better prognosis. If the increase of the hepatic arterial flow is less significant than the decrease of the blood flow in the portal vein, hepatic functional recovery after operation may not be smooth, suggesting a worse prognosis.

Protective effects of pLNCX-SOD gene transfection on hepatocyte injury induced by obstructive jaundice in rats

BACKGROUND: Hydrophobic bile acids lead to the generation of oxygen free radicals in mitochondria. Accordingly, this study is to investigate if gene delivery of superoxide dismutase (SOD) will reduce hepatocyte injury caused by experimental cholestasis. METHODS: The recombinant of pLNCX-SOD gene packaged with lipofection of AMINE was transfected into hepatocytes in vitro, which stably expressed the SOD gene. RESULTS: After transfection, hepatocytes enhanced the protective effect against injury to bile and the toxicity of serum in obstructive jaundice. The inhibition of bile at the concentration of 2% (v: v, bile: DMEM 1: 50) decreased obviously from (78.80 +/- 12.35)% to (43.35 +/- 9.69)% in 12 hours, from (82.55 +/- 11.27)% to (-26.64 +/- 7.66)% in 24 hours, and from (83.83 +/- 18.69)% to (-19.27 +/- 14.38)% in 48 hours, compared with that of the untransfected cells (P < 0.01). The inhibition of serum at the obstructive jaudice concentration of 2.5% was obviously decreased from (89.72 +/- 1.52)% to (14.68 +/- 14.33)% in 12 hours, from (92.2 +/- 11.27)% to (41.39 +/- 7.66)% in 24 hours, and from (94.25 +/- 8.96)% to (22.71 +/- 4.38)% in 48 hours (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Hepatocytes transfected with the pLNCX-SOD gene could obviously be resistant to the toxicity of bile and serum from rat with obstructive jaundice.