Endoscopic-ultrasound-guided biliary drainage with placement of electrocautery-enhanced lumen-apposing metal stent for palliation of malignant biliary obstruction:Updated meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage using electrocautery-enhanced(ECE)delivery of lumen-apposing metal stent(LAMS)is gradually being re-cognized as a viable palliative technique for malignant biliary obstruction after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)failure.However,most of the studies that have assessed its efficacy and safety were small and hetero-geneous.Prior meta-analyses of six or fewer studies that were published 2 years ago were therefore underpowered to yield convincing evidence.AIM To update the efficacy and safety of ECE-LAMS for treatment of biliary ob-struction after ERCP failure.METHODS We searched PubMed,EMBASE,and Scopus databases from the inception of the ECE technique to May 13,2022.Primary outcome measure was pooled technical success rate,and secondary outcomes were pooled rates of clinical success,re-intervention,and adverse events.Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model following Freeman-Tukey double-arcsine transformation in R soft-ware(version 4.1.3).RESULTS Fourteen eligible studies involving 620 participants were ultimately included.The pooled rate of technical success was 96.7%,and clinical success was 91.0%.Adverse events were reported in 17.5%of patients.Overall reinter-vention rate was 7.3%.Subgroup analyses showed results were generally consistent.CONCLUSION ECE-LAMS has favorable success with acceptable adverse events in relieving biliary obstruction when ERCP is impossible.The consistency of results across most subgroups suggested that this is a generalizable approach.

Response letter to “Acute cholangitis: Does malignant biliary obstruction vs choledocholithiasis etiology change the outcomes?” with imaging aspects

Radiological imaging findings may contribute to the differentiation of malignant biliary obstruction from choledocholithiasis in the etiology of acute cholangitis.

Defining failure of endoluminal biliary drainage in the era of endoscopic ultrasound and lumen apposing metal stents

The role of endoscopy in pathologies of the bile duct and gallbladder has seen notable advancements over the past two decades.With advancements in stent technology,such as the development of lumen-apposing metal stents,and adoption of endoscopic ultrasound and electrosurgical principles in therapeutic endoscopy,what was once considered endoscopic failure has transformed into failure of an approach that could be salvaged by a second-or third-line endoscopic strategy.Incorporation of these advancements in routine patient care will require formal training and multidisciplinary acceptance of established techniques and collaboration for advancement of experimental techniques to generate robust evidence that can be utilized to serve patients to the best of our ability.

Imaging features of malignant vs stone-induced biliary obstruction:Aspects to consider

Radiological studies play a crucial role in the evaluation of patients with biliary duct obstruction,allowing for the guidance of clinical diagnosis towards a malignant or stone-induced etiology through the recognition of relevant imaging features,which must be continuously revisited given their prognostic significance.This article aims to emphasize the importance of recognizing crucial imaging aspects of malignant and stone-induced biliary obstruction.

Magnetic compression anastomosis to restore biliary tract continuity after obstruction following major abdominal trauma:A case report

BACKGROUND The combination of magnetic compression anastomosis(MCA)and endoscopy has been used to treat biliary stricture after liver transplantation.However,its use for the treatment of complex biliary obstruction after major abdominal trauma has not been reported.This case report describes the successful use of MCA for the treatment of biliary obstruction resulting from major abdominal trauma.A 23-year-old man underwent major abdominal surgery(repair of liver rupture,right half colon resection,and ileostomy)following a car accident one year ago.The abdominal drainage tube,positioned at the Winslow foramen,was draining approximately 600-800 mL of bile per day.During the two endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures,the guide wire was unable to enter the common bile duct,which prevented placement of a biliary stent.MCA combined with endoscopy was used to successfully achieve magnetic anastomosis of the peritoneal sinus tract and duodenum,and then a choledochoduodenal stent was placed.Finally,the external biliary drainage tube was removed.The patient achieved internal biliary drainage leading to the removal of the external biliary drainage tube,which improved the quality of life.CONCLUSION Magnetic compression technique can be used for the treatment of complex biliary obstruction with minimal operative trauma.

Role of endoscopic-ultrasound-guided biliary drainage with electrocautery-enhanced lumen-apposing metal stent for palliation of malignant biliary obstruction

In this editorial,we discuss the article by Peng et al in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery,focusing on the evolving role of endoscopicultrasound-guided biliary drainage(EUS-BD)with electrocautery lumen apposing metal stent(LAMS)for distal malignant biliary obstruction.Therapeutic endoscopy has rapidly advanced in decompression techniques,with growing evidence of its safety and efficacy surpassing percutaneous and surgical approaches.While endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)has been the gold standard for biliary decompression,its failure rate approaches 10.0%,prompting the exploration of alternatives like EUS-BD.This random-effects meta-analysis demonstrated high technical and clinical success of over 90.0% and an adverse event rate of 17.5%,mainly in the form of stent dysfunction.Outcomes based on stent size were not reported but the majority used 6 mm and 8 mm stents.As the body of literature continues to demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique,the challenges of stent dysfunction need to be addressed in future studies.One strategy that has shown promise is placement of double-pigtail stents,only 18% received the prophylactic intervention in this study.We expect this to improve with time as the technique continues to be refined and standardized.The results above establish EUS-BD with LAMS as a reliable alternative after failed ERCP and considering EUS to ERCP upfront in the same session is an effective strategy.Given the promising results,studies must explore the role of EUS-BD as first-line therapy for biliary decompression.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage using electrocauteryenhanced lumen-apposing metal stent for malignant biliary obstruction:A promising procedure

In this editorial,we comment on the article by Peng et al.Palliative drainage for biliary obstruction resulting from unresectable malignant lesions includes internal and external drainage.The procedures of biliary drainage are usually guided by fluoroscopy or transcutaneous ultrasound,endoscopic ultrasound(EUS),or both.Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)has been primarily recommended for the management of biliary obstruction,while EUS-guided biliary drainage and percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage(PTBD)are alternative choices for cases where ERCP has failed or is impossible.PTBD is limited by shortcomings of a higher rate of adverse events,more reinterventions,and severe complications.EUS-guided biliary drainage has a lower rate of adverse events than PTBD.EUS-guided biliary drainage with electrocautery-enhanced lumen-apposing metal stent(ECE-LAMS)enables EUS-guided biliaryenteric anastomosis to be performed in a single step and does not require prior bile duct puncture or a guidewire.The present meta-analysis showed that ECELAMS has a high efficacy and safety in relieving biliary obstruction in general,although the results of LAMS depending on the site of biliary obstruction.This study has highlighted the latest advances with a larger sample-based comprehensive analysis.

Unveiling the potential of electrocautery-enhanced lumen-apposing metal stents in endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage

This editorial delves into Peng et al's article,published in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery.Peng et al's meta-analysis investigates the effectiveness of electrocautery-enhanced lumen-apposing metal stents(ECE-LAMS)in ultrasound-guided biliary drainage for alleviating malignant biliary obstruction.Examining 14 studies encompassing 620 participants,the research underscores a robust technical success rate of 96.7%,highlighting the efficacy of ECE-LAMS,particularly in challenging cases which have failed endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography.A clinical success rate of 91.0% underscores its impact on symptom alleviation,while a reasonably tolerable adverse event rate of 17.5% is observed.However,the 7.3% re-intervention rate stresses the need for post-procedural monitoring.Subgroup analyses validate consistent outcomes,bolstering the applicability of ECE-LAMS.These findings advocate for the adoption of ECELAMS as an appropriate approach for biliary palliation,urging further exploration in real-world clinical contexts.They offer valuable insights for optimizing interventions targeting malignant biliary obstruction management.

Acute cholangitis: Does malignant biliary obstruction vs choledocholithiasis etiology change the clinical presentation and outcomes?

BACKGROUND Whether clinical outcomes of acute cholangitis(AC)vary by etiology is unclear.AIM To compare outcomes in AC caused by malignant biliary obstruction(MBO)and common bile duct stones(CBDS).METHODS This retrospective study included 516 patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)due to AC caused by MBO(MBO group,n=56)and CBDS(CBDS group,n=460).Clinical and laboratory parameters were compared between the groups.Propensity score matching(PSM)created 55 matched pairs.Confounders used in the PSM analysis were age,sex,time to ERCP,and technical success of ERCP.The primary outcome comparison was 30-d mortality.The secondary outcome comparisons were intensive care unit(ICU)admission rate,length of hospital stay(LOHS),and 30-d readmission rate.RESULTS Compared with the CBDS group,the MBO group had significantly lower body temperature,percentage of abnormal white blood cell counts,and serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase,alanine aminotransferase,and creatinine.Body temperature,percent abnormal white blood cell count,and serum aspartate aminotransferase levels remained significantly lower in the MBO group in the PSM analysis.Platelet count,prothrombin time/international normalized ratio,and serum levels of alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin were significantly higher in the MBO group.The MBO group had a significantly higher percentage of severe AC(33.9%vs 22.0%,P=0.045)and received ERCP later(median,92.5 h vs 47.4 h,P<0.001).However,the two differences were not found in the PSM analysis.The 30-d mortality(5.4%vs 0.7%,P=0.019),ICU admission rates(12.5%vs 4.8%,P=0.028),30-d readmission rates(23.2%vs 8.0%,P<0.001),and LOHS(median,16.5 d vs 7.0 d,P<0.001)were significantly higher or longer in the MBO group.However,only LOHS remained significant in the PSM analysis.Multivariate analysis revealed that time to ERCP and multiple organ dysfunction were independent factors associated with 30-d mortality.CONCLUSION MBO patients underwent ERCP later and thus had a worse prognosis than CBDS patients.Therefore,clinicians should remain vigilant in MBO patients with clinically suspected AC,and perform ERCP for biliary drainage as soon as possible.

Gut peptide changes in patients with obstructive jaundice undergoing biliary drainage:A prospective case control study

BACKGROUND Biliary obstruction is a relatively common condition that affects approximately 5 in 1000 people annually.Malnutrition is very common in patients with biliary obstruction and since it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality,it is important to identify factors and mechanisms involved in its development.AIM To determine the influence of obstructive jaundice on the hormones controlling appetite and nutritive status.METHODS This was a prospective case control study performed in a tertiary center in Zagreb,Croatia.Patients with biliary obstruction undergoing internal biliary drainage from September 2012 until August 2013 were enrolled.After excluding patients who developed procedure related complications or were lost in the follow-up,out of initial 73 patients,55 patients were included in the analysis,including 34 with benign and 21 with malignant disease.Meanwhile,40 non-jaundiced controls were also included.Appetite,nutritional status,and serum ghrelin,cholecystokinin(CCK),interleukin 6(IL-6),and tumor necrosis factorα(TNF-α)were determined at admission,48 h and 28 d after internal biliary drainage.Chi square test was used for categorical variables.Continuous variables were analysed for normality by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and relevant non-parametric(Mann-Whitney,Kruskal-Wallis,and Friedman)or parametric(t-test and analysis of variance)tests were used.RESULTS Patients with obstructive jaundice were significantly malnourished compared to controls,regardless of disease etiology.Plasma ghrelin and CCK levels were significantly higher in patients with obstructive jaundice.Serum bilirubin concentrations were negatively correlated with ghrelin levels and positively correlated with TNF-α,but had no correlation with CCK concentrations.After internal biliary drainage,a significant improvement of nutritional status was observed although serum concentrations of ghrelin,IL-6,and TNF-α remained significantly elevated even 28 d after the procedure.CCK levels in patients without malnutrition remained elevated 28 d after the procedure,but in patients with malnutrition,CCK levels decreased to levels comparable with those in the control group.We have not established any correlation between appetite and serum levels of ghrelin,CCK,IL-6,and TNF-α before and after biliary drainage.CONCLUSION Possible abnormalities in ghrelin and CCK regulation may be associated with the development ofmalnutrition during the inflammatory response in patients with biliary obstruction.

Different percutaneous transhepatic biliary stent placements and catheter drainage in the treatment of middle and low malignant biliary obstruction

BACKGROUND For cases of middle and low biliary obstruction with left and right hepatic duct dilatation,the type of approach and whether different approaches affect the difficulty of puncture operation and intraoperative and postoperative complications have not been discussed in detail.AIM To compare the efficacy of different percutaneous transhepatic biliary stent placements and catheter drainage in treating middle and low biliary obstruction.METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed on the medical records of 424 patients with middle and low biliary obstruction who underwent percutaneous liver puncture biliary stent placement and catheter drainage at the Department of Interventional Radiology,Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital between March 2016 and March 2022.Based on the puncture path,patients were categorized into two groups:Subxiphoid left hepatic lobe approach group(Group A,224 cases)and right intercostal,right hepatic lobe approach group(Group B,200 cases).Liver function improvement,postoperative biliary bleeding incidence,postoperative pain duration,and abdominal effusion leakage around the drainage tube were compared between the two groups at 3 d and 1 wk after the surgery.Patient survival time was recorded during follow-up.RESULTS All 424 surgeries were successful without adverse events.Group A comprised 224 cases,and Group B had 200 cases.There was no statistically significant difference in basic data between Group A and Group B(P>0.05).No significant difference in postoperative biliary bleeding incidence was observed between the groups(P>0.05).The decreased rates for total bilirubin(Group A:69.23±4.50,Group B:63.79±5.65),direct bilirubin(Group A:79.30±11.19,Group B:63.62±5.64),and alkaline phosphatase(Group A:60.51±12.23,Group B:42.68±23.56)in the 1st wk after surgery were significantly faster in Group A than in Group B.The decreased rate of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase was also significantly faster in Group A at both 3 d(Group A:40.56±10.32,Group B:32.22±5.12)and 1 wk(Group A:73.19±7.05,Group B:58.81±18.98)after surgery(P<0.05).Group A experienced significantly less peritoneal effusion leakage around the drainage tube than Group B(P<0.05).The patient survival rate was higher in Group A compared to Group B(P<0.05).CONCLUSION In treating jaundice patients with middle and low biliary obstruction,a percutaneous left liver puncture demonstrated better clinical efficacy than a percutaneous right liver puncture.

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.

The Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Percutaneous Transhepatic Metal Versus Plastic Biliary Stent Implantation for Treating Malignant Biliary Obstruction (Multiple Center Investigation)

Objective: To compare metal versus plastic biliary stent implantation for treatment of malignant biliary obstruction in cost-effectiveness ratio (CER). Methods: Percutaneous transhepatic self-expandable metal stent (MS, n=61) or 10F plastic stent (PS, n=34) implantation was performed in 95 patients with malignant biliary obstruction in three hospitals of Guangdong province. All patients were followed up until death or at least one year after the procedure. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare the survival and stent patency rates of the patients in the two groups. CERs of two groups were calculated. The main indexes were CERsurvival period (total cost/median survival period), CERpatency period (total cost/median patency period). Results: The total costs of treatment were 53177±3139 yuan (RMB) in MS group and 42564±4950 yuan (RMB) in PS group respectively (P>0.05). CER in MS group was superior to that in PS group (CERsurvival period was 237.4 yuan /d vs 452.6 yuan /d, respectively; CERpatency period was 231.2 yuan /d vs 472.9 yuan /d, respectively). Conclusion: The metal stent implantation is superior to the plastic stent in the CER for treatment of malignant biliary obstruction.

Metal stent implantation for palliation of malignant biliary obstruction-a report of 57 cases

AIMS To report the first experience in China in the treatment of malignant biliary obstruction with expand- able metal stent which allows the insertion of an endo- prosthesis as large as one cm in diameter. METHODS Between April 1994 and May 1996,we implanted expandable metal stents in 57 patients with incurable malignant biliary obstruction,among whom 54 underwent endoscopic procedure and the other 3 re- ceived percutaneous transhepatic placement. RESULTS Insertion of the stent following guidewire positioning was successful in 95% of the patients. Two patients developed cholangitis after stent insertion and were successfully treated with conservative treatment. The jaundice was eliminated completely in 21 cases and markedly decreased in 23 cases within 2 weeks af- ter placement of the stent. Nine patients,however, had late cholangitis due to stent failure after a median interval of 14 days. Twenty-three cases underwent na- sobiliary transient drainage and 3 underwent plastic stent transient drainage prior to metal stent insertion. Transient drainage was believed to have the advan- tages of drainage pre-assessment and infection controlling. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that expandable metal stent is suitable for the irresectable malignant choledochal stenosis. It can eliminate the jaundice and improve the patient's life quality. To get the highest benefit,however,the indication should be strictly selected. And to get long-term patency,the proximal and distal end of the stent proceeding the tumor should be no shorter than 2cm. In the case of hilar cancer, Bismuth classification is greatly helpful for the choice of drainage site.

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.

Catheter tract implantation metastases associated with percutaneous biliary drainage for extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

AIM： To estimate the incidence of catheter tract implantation metastasis among patients undergoing percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage （PTBD） for extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and to provide data regarding the management of this unusual complication of PTBD by reviewing cases reported in the literature. METHODS： A retrospective analysis of 67 consecutive patients who underwent PTBD before the resection of extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma was conducted. The median follow-up period after PTBD was 106 too. The English language literature （PubMed, National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA）, from .lanuary 1966 through December 2004, was reviewed. RESULTS： Catheter tract implantation metastasis developed in three patients. The cumulative incidence of implantation metastasis reached a plateau （6%） at 20 mo after PTBD. All of the three patients with implantation metastasis died of tumor progression at 3, 9, and 20 mo after the detection of this complication. Among the 10 reported patients with catheter tract implantation metastasis from extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma （including our three patients）, two survived for more than 5 years after the excision of isolated catheter tract metastases. CONCLUSION： Catheter tract implantation metastasis is not a rare complication following PTBD for extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Although the prognosis for patients with this complication is generally poor, the excision of the catheter tract may enable survival in selected patients with isolated metastases along the catheter tract.

Changes in growth factor and cytokine expression in biliary obstructed rat liver and their relationship with delayed liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy

AIM： To study the effects of obstructive jaundice on liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy. METHODS： Hepatocyte growth factor （HGF）, its receptor, c-Met, vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） and transforming growth factor-β1 （TGF-β1） mRNA expression in both liver tissue and isolated liver cells were investigated after biliary obstruction （BO） by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR） using a LightCycler. Immunohistochemical staining for desmin and e-smooth muscle actin （α-SNA） was also studied. Regenerating liver weight and proliferating cell nuclear antigen （PCNA） labeling index, and growth factor expression were then evaluated after 70% hepatectomy with concomitant internal bUiary drainage in BO rats or sham-operated rats. RESULTS： Hepatic TGF-β1 mRNA levels increased significantly 14 days after BO, and further increased with duration of cholestasis. Meanwhile, HGF and VEGF tended to increase, but was not significant. In cell isolates, TGF-β1 mRNA was found mainly in the hepatic stellate cell （HSC） fraction. Immunohistochemical studies revealed an increased number of HSCs （desmin-positive cells） and activated HSCs （α-SMA-positive cells） in portal areas after BO. In a hepatectomy model, liver regeneration was delayed in BO rats, as compared to sham-operated rats. TGF-β1 mRNA was significantly up-regulated up to 48 h after hepatectomy, and the earlier HGF mRNA peak was lost in BO rats. CONCLUSION： BO induces HSCs proliferation and activation, leading to up-regulation of TGF-β1 mRNA and suppression of HGF mRNA in livers. These altered expression patterns may be strongly involved in delayed liver regeneration after hepatectomy with obstructive jaundice.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage with placement of a fully covered metal stent for malignant biliary obstruction

AIM:To determine the utility of endoscopic ultrasoundguided biliary drainage(EUS-BD)with a fully covered self-expandable metal stent for managing malignant biliary stricture. METHODS:We collected data from 13 patients who presented with malignant biliary obstruction and underwent EUS-BD with a nitinol fully covered selfexpandable metal stent when endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)fails.EUS-guided choledochoduodenostomy(EUS-CD)and EUS-guided hepaticogastrostomy(EUS-HG)was performed in 9 patients and 4 patients,respectively. RESULTS:The technical and functional success rate was 92.3%(12/13)and 91.7%(11/12),respectively. Using an intrahepatic approach(EUS-HG,n=4),there was mild peritonitis(n=1)and migration of the metal stent to the stomach(n=1).With an extrahepatic approach(EUS-CD,n=10),there was pneumoperitoneum(n=2),migration(n=2),and mild peritonitis (n=1).All patients were managed conservatively with antibiotics.During follow-up(range,1-12 mo),there was re-intervention(4/13 cases,30.7%)necessitated by stent migration(n=2)and stent occlusion(n=2). CONCLUSION:EUS-BD with a nitinol fully covered self-expandable metal stent may be a feasible and effective treatment option in patients with malignant biliary obstruction when ERCP fails.

Surgery in biliary lithiasis: from the traditional “open” approach to laparoscopy and the“rendezvous” technique

BACKGROUND:According to the current literature, biliary lithiasis is a worldwide-diffused condition that affects almost 20% of the general population. The rate of common bile duct stones(CBDS) in patients with symptomatic cholelithiasis is estimated to be 10% to 33%, depending on patient’s age.Compared to stones in the gallbladder, the natural history of secondary CBDS is still not completely understood. It is not clear whether an asymptomatic choledocholithiasis requires treatment or not. For many years, open cholecystectomy with choledochotomy and/or surgical sphincterotomy and cleaning of the bile duct were the gold standard to treat both pathologies. Development of both endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) and laparoscopic surgery,together with improvements in diagnostic procedures, influenced new approaches to the management of CBDS in association with gallstones.DATA SOURCES:We decided to systematically review the literature in order to identify all the current therapeutic options for CBDS. A systematic literature search was performed independently by two authors using Pub Med, EMBASE, Scopus and the Cochrane Library Central.RESULTS:The therapeutic approach nowadays varies greatly according to the availability of experience and expertise in each center, and includes open or laparoscopic common bile duct exploration, various combinations of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and ERCP and combined laparoendoscopic rendezvous.CONCLUSIONS:Although ERCP followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy is currently preferred in the majority of hospitals worldwide, the optimal treatment for concomitant gallstones and CBDS is still under debate, and greatly varies among different centers.

Multicenter study of endoscopic preoperative biliary drainage for malignant distal biliary obstruction

AIM: To determine the optimal method of endoscopic preoperative biliary drainage for malignant distal biliary obstruction.METHODS: Multicenter retrospective study was conducted in patients who underwent plastic stent (PS) or nasobiliary catheter (NBC) placement for resectable malignant distal biliary obstruction followed by surgery between January 2010 and March 2012. Procedure-related adverse events, stent/catheter dysfunction (occlusion or migration of PS/NBC, development of cholangitis, or other conditions that required repeat endoscopic biliary intervention), and jaundice resolution (bilirubin level &#x0003c; 3.0 mg/dL) were evaluated. Cumulative incidence of jaundice resolution and dysfunction of PS/NBC were estimated using competing risk analysis. Patient characteristics and preoperative biliary drainage were also evaluated for association with the time to jaundice resolution and PS/NBC dysfunction using competing risk regression analysis.RESULTS: In total, 419 patients were included in the study (PS, 253 and NBC, 166). Primary cancers included pancreatic cancer in 194 patients (46%), bile duct cancer in 172 (41%), gallbladder cancer in three (1%), and ampullary cancer in 50 (12%). The median serum total bilirubin was 7.8 mg/dL and 324 patients (77%) had &#x02265; 3.0 mg/dL. During the median time to surgery of 29 d [interquartile range (IQR), 30-39 d]. PS/NBC dysfunction rate was 35% for PS and 18% for NBC [Subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) = 4.76; 95%CI: 2.44-10.0, P &#x0003c; 0.001]; the pig-tailed tip was a risk factor for PS dysfunction. Jaundice resolution was achieved in 85% of patients and did not depend on the drainage method (PS or NBC).CONCLUSION: PS has insufficient patency for preoperative biliary drainage. Given the drawbacks of external drainage via NBC, an alternative method of internal drainage should be explored.