Hepatic steatosis as the most prevalent liver disorder can either be related to alcoholic liver disease (ALD) or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In both conditions, hepatocytes excessively accumulate fatcon...Hepatic steatosis as the most prevalent liver disorder can either be related to alcoholic liver disease (ALD) or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In both conditions, hepatocytes excessively accumulate fatcontaining vacuoles within their cytoplasm, which is the key histological feature. In contrast to ALD, NAFLD is commonly associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity and insulin resistance. To determine increased liver fat content, liver biopsy is currently considered the gold standard. Besides the invasive technique, various other non-invasive techniques have been developed, such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) based methods. Among these techniques, ultrasound and CT provide only qualitative information about hepatic steatosis, whereas MRS-or MRI-based methods are able to determine even small amounts of fat accurately. These non-invasive magnetic resonance techniques have already proven their great potential, especially in longitudinal and cross-sectional studies regarding various metabolic conditions and medical treatment regimens. In this review, the most common, non-invasive MRS/MRI techniques for assessment of intrahepatic lipid content are described with their inherent advantages and limitations.展开更多
The laparoscopic technique was introduced in gastrointestinal surgery in the mid 1980s. Since then, the development of this technique has been extraordinary. Triggered by technical innovations (stapling devices or coa...The laparoscopic technique was introduced in gastrointestinal surgery in the mid 1980s. Since then, the development of this technique has been extraordinary. Triggered by technical innovations (stapling devices or coagulation/dissecting devices), nowadays any type of gastrointestinal resection has been successfully performed laparoscopically and can be performed laparoscopically dependent on the patient’s condition. This summary gives an overview over 30 years of laparoscopic surgery with focus on today’s indications and evidence. Main indications remain the more common procedures, e.g., appendectomy, cholecystectomy, bariatric procedures or colorectal resections. For all these indications, the laparoscopic approach has become the gold standard with less perioperative morbidity. Regarding oncological outcome there have been several high-quality randomized controlled trials which demonstrated equivalency between laparoscopic and open colorectal resections. Less common procedures like esophagectomy, oncological gastrectomy, liver and pancreatic resections can be performed successfully as well by an experienced surgeon. However, the evidence for these special indications is poor and a general recommendation cannot be given. In conclusion, laparoscopic surgery has revolutionized the field of gastrointestinal surgery by reducing perioperative morbidity without disregarding surgical principles especially in oncological surgery.展开更多
Over the last several years there has been a growing interest in placebo, not only as an inert control in clinical trials, but also in the placebo effect as a group effect as well as a reaction in individual subjects....Over the last several years there has been a growing interest in placebo, not only as an inert control in clinical trials, but also in the placebo effect as a group effect as well as a reaction in individual subjects. Methodological factors such as regression to the mean and natural history of the disease play a role in the evaluation of a possible placebo effect. In this report, we discuss several factors including PavIovian conditioning, beliefs outcome, expectations, and other factors as potential mediators of the placebo response. Placebo effects are common in gastrointestinal diseases and there seems to be no clear difference between placebo effects in functional gastrointestinal diseases (functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome) and organic gastrointestinal disease (duodenal ulcer and inflammatory bowel disease).展开更多
In the peripheral nervous system,the vast majority of axons are accommodated within the fibre bundles that constitute the peripheral nerves.Axons within the nerves are in close contact with myelinating glia,the Schwan...In the peripheral nervous system,the vast majority of axons are accommodated within the fibre bundles that constitute the peripheral nerves.Axons within the nerves are in close contact with myelinating glia,the Schwann cells that are ideally placed to respond to,and possibly shape,axonal activity.The mechanisms of intercellular communication in the peripheral nerves may involve direct contact between the cells,as well as signalling via diffusible substances.Neurotransmitter glutamate has been proposed as a candidate extracellular molecule mediating the cross-talk between cells in the peripheral nerves.Two types of experimental findings support this idea:first,glutamate has been detected in the nerves and can be released upon electrical or chemical stimulation of the nerves;second,axons and Schwann cells in the peripheral nerves express glutamate receptors.Yet,the studies providing direct experimental evidence that intercellular glutamatergic signalling takes place in the peripheral nerves during physiological or pathological conditions are largely missing.Remarkably,in the central nervous system,axons and myelinating glia are involved in glutamatergic signalling.This signalling occurs via different mechanisms,the most intriguing of which is fast synaptic communication between axons and oligodendrocyte precursor cells.Glutamate receptors and/or synaptic axon-glia signalling are involved in regulation of proliferation,migration,and differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells,survival of oligodendrocytes,and re-myelination of axons after damage.Does synaptic signalling exist between axons and Schwann cells in the peripheral nerves?What is the functional role of glutamate receptors in the peripheral nerves?Is activation of glutamate receptors in the nerves beneficial or harmful during diseases?In this review,we summarise the limited information regarding glutamate release and glutamate receptors in the peripheral nerves and speculate about possible mechanisms of glutamatergic signalling in the nerves.We highlight the necessity of further research on this topic because it should help to understand the mechanisms of peripheral nervous system development and nerve regeneration during diseases.展开更多
AIM To gather data on the antiviral efficacy and safety of second generation direct acting antiviral(DAA) treatment with respect to sustained virological response(SVR) 12 wk after conclusion of treatment, and to deter...AIM To gather data on the antiviral efficacy and safety of second generation direct acting antiviral(DAA) treatment with respect to sustained virological response(SVR) 12 wk after conclusion of treatment, and to determine predictors of SVR12 in this setting.METHODS Two hundred and sixty patients treated with SOF combination partners PR(n = 51), R(n = 10), SMV(n = 30), DCV(n = 81), LDV(n = 73), or 3D(n = 15).144/260 were pre-treated, 89/260 had liver cirrhosis, 56/260 had portal hypertension with platelets < 100/nL, 25/260 had a MELD score ≥ 10 and 17/260 were postliver transplantation patients. 194/260 had HCV GT1, 44/260 HCV GT3.RESULTS Two hundred and forty/256(93.7%) patients achieved SVR12(m ITT); 4/260 were lost to follow-up. SVR12 rates for subgroups were: 92% for SOF/DCV, 93% for each SOF/SMV, SOF/PR, 94% for SOF/LDV, 100% for 3D, 94% for pretreated, 87% for liver cirrhosis, 82% for patients with platelets < 100/n L, 88% post-liver transplantation, 95% for GT1 a, 93% for GT1 b, 90% for GT3, 100% for GT2, 4, and 6. 12 patients suffered from relapse, 6 prematurely discontinued treatment, of which 4 died. Negative predictors of SVR12 were a platelet count < 100/nL, MELD score ≥ 10(P < 0.0001), liver cirrhosis(P = 0.005) at baseline. In Interferonfree treatment GT3 had significantly lower SVR rates than GT1(P = 0.016). Side effects were mild. CONCLUSION Excellent SVR12 rates and the favorable side-effect profile of DAA-combination therapy can be well translated into "real-world". Patients with advanced liver disease, signs of portal hypertension, especially with platelets < 100/n L and patients with GT3 are in special need for further research efforts to overcome comparatively higher rates of virological failure.展开更多
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic pelvic pain (CPP) are both somatoform disorders with a high prevalence within the population in general. The objective was to compare both entities, to find the differenc...Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic pelvic pain (CPP) are both somatoform disorders with a high prevalence within the population in general. The objective was to compare both entities, to find the differences and the similarities related to epidemiology and psychosocial aspects like stressful life events, physical and sexual abuse, illness behaviour and comorbidity. The technical literature was reviewed systematically from 1971 to 2006 and compared. According to literature, IBS and CPP seem to be one rather than two different entities with the same Iocalisation of pain. Both syndromes also are similar concerning prevalence, the coexistence of mental and somatoform disorders, the common history of sexual and physical abuse in the past and their health care utilization. It could be shown that there were many similarities between IBS and CPP. Nevertheless both are traded as different clinical pictures as far. Therefore it seems to be reasonable and necessary to generate a common diagnosis algorithm and to bring gynaecologists and gastroenterologists into dialogue.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the expression of nucleoporin 88 (Nup88) in hepatitis B virus (HBV) and C virus (HCV)-related liver diseases. METHODS: We generated a new monoclonal Nup88 antibody to investigate the Nup88 protein ...AIM: To investigate the expression of nucleoporin 88 (Nup88) in hepatitis B virus (HBV) and C virus (HCV)-related liver diseases. METHODS: We generated a new monoclonal Nup88 antibody to investigate the Nup88 protein expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 294 paraffin-embedded liver specimens comprising all stages of hepatocellular carcinogenesis. In addition, in cell culture experiments HBV-positive (HepG2.2.15 and HB611) and HBV-negative (HepG2) hepatoma cell lines were tested for the Nup88 expression by Western-immunoblotting to test data obtained by IHC.RESULTS: Specific Nup88 expression was found in chronic HCV hepatitis and unspecific chronic hepatitis, whereas no or very weak Nup88 expression was detected in normal liver. The Nup88 expression was markedly reduced or missing in mild chronic HBV infection and inversely correlated with HBcAg expression. Irrespective of the HBV- or HCV-status, increasing Nup88 expression was observed in cirrhosis and dysplastic nodules, and Nup88 was highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinomas. The intensity of Nup88 expression significantly increased during carcinogenesis (P < 0.0001) and correlated with dedifferentiation (P < 0.0001). Interestingly, Nup88 protein expression was significantly downregulated in HBV-positive HepG2.2.15 (P < 0.002) and HB611 (P < 0.001) cell lines as compared to HBV-negative HepG2 cells. CONCLUSION: Based on our immunohistochemical data, HBV and HCV are unlikely to influence the expression of Nup88 in cirrhotic and neoplastic liver tissue, but point to an interaction of HBV with the nuclear pore in chronic hepatitis. The expression of Nup88 in nonneoplastic liver tissue might reflect enhanced metabolic activity of the liver tissue. Our data strongly indicate a dichotomous role for Nup88 in non-neoplastic and neoplastic conditions of the liver.展开更多
The overproduction of reactive oxygen species is defined as oxidative stress.While deprived oxygen supply in tissues is known as hypoxia.These mechanisms contribute to the pathogenesis of several retinal diseases,like...The overproduction of reactive oxygen species is defined as oxidative stress.While deprived oxygen supply in tissues is known as hypoxia.These mechanisms contribute to the pathogenesis of several retinal diseases,like glaucoma,age-related macular degeneration(AMD),and retinal ischemia.Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease defined by a progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells(RGCs)and their axons causing visual field defects,which ultimately leads to blindness.While AMD pathogenesis is further characterized by soft drusen,it involves the retinal pigment epithelium and the Bruch’s membrane-choroid complex.展开更多
Research on gut-brain interactions has increased over the last decade and has brought about a number of new topics beyond "classical" subjects, such as "stress" and personality; which have dominated the psychosoma...Research on gut-brain interactions has increased over the last decade and has brought about a number of new topics beyond "classical" subjects, such as "stress" and personality; which have dominated the psychosomatic literature on gastrointestinal disorders over the past century. These novel topics include brain imaging of intestinal functions, placebo responses in gastroenterology, learning of gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life in patients with intestinal complaints, and psychotherapy and familial aggregation of functional intestinal disorders. Currently, these new topics appear with a frequency of 1% to 3% in leading gastroenterological journals, either as data presentation or review papers. Increasing focus underlines the importance of enhandng our understanding on how the psyche and the brain communicate in order to better meet the needs of our patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND Psychiatric disorders are common but underdiagnosed in cancer survivors.Research suggests that tumor type has an effect on the prevalence of clinically relevant depression,anxiety,comorbid anxiety-depressio...BACKGROUND Psychiatric disorders are common but underdiagnosed in cancer survivors.Research suggests that tumor type has an effect on the prevalence of clinically relevant depression,anxiety,comorbid anxiety-depression and posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD).AIM To identify studies that examined the prevalence of clinically relevant levels of depression,anxiety,comorbid anxiety-depression and PTSD for patients with one or more tumor sites and compare those prevalences between cancer subtypes.METHODS Four databases(PubMed,PsycInfo,PubPsych and the Cochrane Database)were searched and resulted in a total of 2387 articles to be screened.To be included,a study must have investigated cancer-free and posttreatment survivors using tools to assess clinically relevant levels of the listed psychiatric comorbidities.All articles were screened by two authors with a third author reviewing debated articles.RESULTS Twenty-six studies on ten different tumor types fulfilled all inclusion criteria and were included in the review.The studies showed heterogeneity regarding the study characteristics,number of participants,time since diagnosis,and assessment tools.Generally,all four comorbidities show higher prevalences in cancer survivors than the general population.Brain tumor survivors were reported to have a relatively high prevalence of both depression and anxiety.Studies with melanoma survivors reported high prevalences of all four psychiatric comorbidities.Regarding comorbidities,a wide range in prevalence existed across the tumor types.Within one cancer site,the prevalence also varied considerably among the studies.CONCLUSION Psychiatric comorbidities are more frequent in cancer survivors than in the general population,as reflected by the prevalence of depression,anxiety,comorbid anxiety-depression and PTSD across all tumor subtypes.Developing generalized screening tools that examine psychological distress in cancer survivors up to at least ten years after diagnosis could help to understand and address the psychological burden of cancer survivors.展开更多
Purpose: This study examines quality of life and psychological distress in individuals with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser Syndrome (MRKHS) and Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS), two syndromes belon...Purpose: This study examines quality of life and psychological distress in individuals with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser Syndrome (MRKHS) and Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS), two syndromes belonging to the field of “disorders of sex development”. Methods: Fifty women with MRKHS and eleven individuals with CAIS participated. The German versions of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (short version, WHOQOL-Bref), the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-D) were used as standardized instruments to measure quality of life and psychopathology. Additional questions concerning demographic variables and suicidality were included. Results: In both patient samples examined, general quality of life reported was in the average range (CAIS: mean z-score = ﹣0.43, SD = 1.05;MRKHS: mean z-score = ﹣0.11, SD = 1.06). The standardized instrument assessment revealed increased psychological distress (proportion of clinical cases according to the BSI: CAIS: 54.5%;MRKHS: 55.1%). A correlation between psychological distress and time span from first suspicion to diagnosis was found in women with MRKHS (Spearman’s rho = 0.35, p = 0.018). Conclusions: The results illustrate the importance of individualised and thorough diagnostics when dealing with patients with MRKHS or CAIS. Psychological distress might be an issue for these individuals and therefore should be considered in treatment and counselling.展开更多
Objectives: The purpose was to show how important is to operate on the Senegalese African children presenting with Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) regardless of their age. Methods: It is a retrospective, descriptive analysi...Objectives: The purpose was to show how important is to operate on the Senegalese African children presenting with Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) regardless of their age. Methods: It is a retrospective, descriptive analysis of data from the Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University Hospital of Tuebingen’s data base which was searched for all cases of TOF in foreign patients younger than 15 years between 05/2004-10/2016. Results: 16 children from Senegal with TOF were referred for treatment. Mean age of patients was 7.0 years (range 0.9 - 14.8 years). Primary corrective surgery was performed in 13/16 patients. A primary shunt procedure was required in 3/16 patients. All patients were discharged in good condition with a median 13 postoperative days. We did not register any deaths. All became asymptomatic with pulse oximetry oxygen saturations greater than 95%. The right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) gradient was less than 30 mmHg in all patients and 2 patients had moderate pulmonary valvular insufficiency. Conclusions: It was still necessary to operate Senegalese children presenting with TOF irrespective of their age.展开更多
AIM To detect blood withdrawal for patients with arterial blood pressure monitoring to increase patient safety and provide better sample dating.METHODS Blood pressure information obtained from a patient monitor was fe...AIM To detect blood withdrawal for patients with arterial blood pressure monitoring to increase patient safety and provide better sample dating.METHODS Blood pressure information obtained from a patient monitor was fed as a real-time data stream to an experimental medical framework. This framework was connected to an analytical application which observes changes in systolic, diastolic and mean pressure to determine anomalies in the continuous data stream. Detection was based on an increased mean blood pressure caused by the closing of the withdrawal three-way tap and an absence of systolic and diastolic measurements during this manipulation. For evaluation of the proposed algorithm, measured data from animal studies in healthy pigs were used.RESULTS Using this novel approach for processing real-time measurement data of arterial pressure monitoring, the exact time of blood withdrawal could be successfully detected retrospectively and in real-time. The algorithm was able to detect 422 of 434(97%) blood withdrawals for blood gas analysis in the retrospective analysis of 7 study trials. Additionally, 64 sampling events for other procedures like laboratory and activated clotting time analyses were detected. The proposed algorithm achieved a sensitivity of 0.97, a precision of 0.96 and an F1 score of 0.97.CONCLUSION Arterial blood pressure monitoring data can be used toperform an accurate identification of individual blood samplings in order to reduce sample mix-ups and thereby increase patient safety.展开更多
Liver transplantation(LT)for colorectal liver metastases(CRLM)seems to be nowadays an established treatment,not only of unresectable CRLM(uCRLM)(1)but also for borderline resectable ones(2,3).For these patients,the be...Liver transplantation(LT)for colorectal liver metastases(CRLM)seems to be nowadays an established treatment,not only of unresectable CRLM(uCRLM)(1)but also for borderline resectable ones(2,3).For these patients,the benefit of LT vs standard modern advanced palliative therapies ranges between 40-80%(1).Notwithstanding the high rates of recurrence,LT can definitely be considered as a curative option,in particular considering the excellent long-term results recently published by the Oslo group(4).展开更多
Metastases of uveal melanoma(UM)spread predominantly to the liver.Due to low response rates to systemic therapies,liver-directed therapies(LDT)are commonly used for tumor control.The impact of LDT on the response to s...Metastases of uveal melanoma(UM)spread predominantly to the liver.Due to low response rates to systemic therapies,liver-directed therapies(LDT)are commonly used for tumor control.The impact of LDT on the response to systemic treatment is unknown.A total of 182 patients with metastatic UM treated with immune checkpoint blockade(ICB)were included in this analysis.Patients were recruited from prospective skin cancer centers and the German national skin cancer registry(ADOReg)of the German Dermatologic Cooperative Oncology Group(DeCOG).Two cohorts were compared:patients with LDT(cohort A,n=78)versus those without LDT(cohort B,n=104).Data were analyzed for response to treatment,progression-free survival(PFS),and overall survival(OS).The median OS was significantly longer in cohort A than in cohort B(20.1 vs.13.8 months;P=0.0016)and a trend towards improved PFS was observed for cohort A(3.0 vs.2.5 months;P=0.054).The objective response rate to any ICB(16.7%vs.3.8%,P=0.0073)and combined ICB(14.1%vs.4.5%,P=0.017)was more favorable in cohort A.Our data suggest that the combination of LDT with ICB may be associated with a survival benefit and higher treatment response to ICB in patients with metastatic UM.展开更多
Appropriately adapted comprehensive mechanical properties,degradation behavior and biocompatibility are prerequisites for the application of Zn-based biodegradable implants.In this study,hot-extruded Zn-0.5Cu-xFe(x=0....Appropriately adapted comprehensive mechanical properties,degradation behavior and biocompatibility are prerequisites for the application of Zn-based biodegradable implants.In this study,hot-extruded Zn-0.5Cu-xFe(x=0.1,0.2 and 0.4 wt%)alloys were fabricated as candidates for biodegradable materials for guided bone regeneration(GBR)membranes.The hot-extrusion process and Cu alloying were expected mostly to enhance the mechanical properties,and the Fe alloying was added mainly for regulating the degradation.The microstructure,mechanical properties and in vitro degradation behavior were systematically investigated.The ZnCuFe alloys were composed of a Zn matrix and FeZn13 phase.With increasing Fe content,a higher FeZn13 phase precipitation with larger particles was observed.Since elongation declined significantly until fracture with increasing Fe content up to 0.4 wt%,the ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy achieved a good balance between mechanical strength and ductility,with an ultimate tensile strength of 202.3 MPa and elongation at fracture of 41.2%.Moreover,the addition of Fe successfully accelerated the degradation of ZnCuFe alloys.The ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy showed relatively uniform corrosion in the long-term degradation test.Furthermore,extracts of the ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy showed no apparent cytotoxic effects against L929 fibroblasts,Saos-2 osteoblasts or TAg periosteal cells.The ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy exhibited the potential to inhibit bacterial adhesion of Streptococcus gordonii and mixed oral bacteria.Our study provides evidence that the ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy can represent a promising material for the application as a suitable GBR membrane.展开更多
Liver resection still represent the treatment of choice for liver malignancies,but in some cases inadequate future remnant liver(FRL)can lead to post hepatectomy liver failure(PHLF)that still represents the most commo...Liver resection still represent the treatment of choice for liver malignancies,but in some cases inadequate future remnant liver(FRL)can lead to post hepatectomy liver failure(PHLF)that still represents the most common cause of death after hepatectomy.Several strategies in recent era have been developed in order to generate a compensatory hypertrophy of the FRL,reducing the risk of post hepatectomy liver failure.Portal vein embolization,portal vein ligation,and ALLPS are the most popular techniques historically adopted up to now.The liver venous deprivation and the radio-embolization are the most recent promising techniques.Despite even more precise tools to calculate the relationship among volume and function,such as scintigraphy with^(99m)Tc-mebrofenin(HBS),no consensus is still available to define which of the above mentioned augmentation strategy is more adequate in terms of kind of surgery,complexity of the pathology and quality of liver parenchyma.The aim of this article is to analyse these different strategies to achieve sufficient FRL.展开更多
Objective:A collaborative team is necessary to help patients achieve their healthcare goals using complementary medicine.At present,healthcare professionals do not feel sufficiently qualified to provide this service.T...Objective:A collaborative team is necessary to help patients achieve their healthcare goals using complementary medicine.At present,healthcare professionals do not feel sufficiently qualified to provide this service.This study sought to identify competencies and teaching methods for interprofessional training on complementary and integrative medicine at medical schools.Methods:Sixty-five German-speaking experts with various professional backgrounds were invited to take part in a three-round Delphi study.In the first round,predefined competencies were assessed on a seven-point Likert scale,and participants were invited to propose additional competencies that would be evaluated in the subsequent rounds.The competencies were ranked based on the participant assessments and were assigned to four relevance groups.In the second and third rounds,suitable teaching methods were identified using free-text fields and multiple-choice questions.In a final workshop,participants synthesized the outcomes of the previous sessions and derived key competencies that would be a benefit to undergraduate interprofessional training in complementary and integrative medicine at medical schools.Results:The three rounds plus final worksop were attended by 50,40,36 and 11 experts.The competencies that these experts determined to be highly relevant to teaching complementary and integrative medicine emphasized,in particular,the respectful treatment of patients and the importance of taking a medical history.From these highly relevant competencies,three key targets were agreed upon in the final workshop:students are able to 1)classify and assess complementary medical terms and methods;2)work collaboratively and integrate patients into the interprofessional team;3)involve patients and their relatives respectfully and empathetically in all healthcare processes.To achieve these competency goals,the following teaching methods were highlighted:students discuss therapy options based on authentic patient cases with each other and practice empathic patient communication incorporating complementary medicine.Further,the theoretical background of complementary medicines could be provided as online-training,to use the class sessions for hands-on exercises and interprofessional exchange and discussion.Conclusion:Despite the heterogeneous panel of experts,a consensus was reached on the competency orientation and teaching approaches.The results can promote the implementation of interprofessional training for complementary medicine in undergraduate education.展开更多
Background:Preoperative patient selection in Associating Liver Partition and Portal vein ligation for Staged hepatectomy(ALPPS)is not always reliable with currently available scores,particularly in patients with prima...Background:Preoperative patient selection in Associating Liver Partition and Portal vein ligation for Staged hepatectomy(ALPPS)is not always reliable with currently available scores,particularly in patients with primary liver tumor.This study aims to(I)to determine whether comorbidities and patients characteristics are a risk factor in ALPPS and(II)to create a score predicting 90-day mortality preoperatively.Methods:Thirteen high-volume centers participated in this retrospective multicentric study.A risk analysis based on patient characteristics,underlying disease and procedure type was performed to identify risk factors and model the Comprehensive ALPPS Preoperative Risk Assessment(CAPRA)score.A nonparametric receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to estimate the predictive ability of our score against the Charlson Comorbidity Index(CCI),the age-adjusted CCI(aCCI),the ALPPS risk score before Stage 1(ALPPS-RS1)and Stage 2(ALPPS-RS2).The model was internally validated applying bootstrapping.Results:A total of 451 patients were included.Mortality was 14.4%.The CAPRA score is calculated based on the following formula:(0.1×age)−(2×BSA)+1(in the presence of primary liver tumor)+1(in the presence of severe cardiovascular disease)+2(in the presence of moderate or severe diabetes)+2(in the presence of renal disease)+2(if classic ALPPS is planned).The predictive ability was 0.837 for the CAPRA score,0.443 for CCI,0.519 for aCCI,0.693 for ALPPS-RS1 and 0.807 for ALPPS-RS2.After 1,000 cycles of bootstrapping the C statistic was 0.793.The accuracy plot revealed a cut-off for optimal prediction of postoperative mortality of 4.70.Conclusions:Comorbidities play an important role in ALPPS and should be carefully considered when planning the procedure.By assessing the patient’s preoperative condition in relation to ALPPS,the CAPRA score has a very good ability to predict postoperative mortality.展开更多
文摘Hepatic steatosis as the most prevalent liver disorder can either be related to alcoholic liver disease (ALD) or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In both conditions, hepatocytes excessively accumulate fatcontaining vacuoles within their cytoplasm, which is the key histological feature. In contrast to ALD, NAFLD is commonly associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity and insulin resistance. To determine increased liver fat content, liver biopsy is currently considered the gold standard. Besides the invasive technique, various other non-invasive techniques have been developed, such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) based methods. Among these techniques, ultrasound and CT provide only qualitative information about hepatic steatosis, whereas MRS-or MRI-based methods are able to determine even small amounts of fat accurately. These non-invasive magnetic resonance techniques have already proven their great potential, especially in longitudinal and cross-sectional studies regarding various metabolic conditions and medical treatment regimens. In this review, the most common, non-invasive MRS/MRI techniques for assessment of intrahepatic lipid content are described with their inherent advantages and limitations.
文摘The laparoscopic technique was introduced in gastrointestinal surgery in the mid 1980s. Since then, the development of this technique has been extraordinary. Triggered by technical innovations (stapling devices or coagulation/dissecting devices), nowadays any type of gastrointestinal resection has been successfully performed laparoscopically and can be performed laparoscopically dependent on the patient’s condition. This summary gives an overview over 30 years of laparoscopic surgery with focus on today’s indications and evidence. Main indications remain the more common procedures, e.g., appendectomy, cholecystectomy, bariatric procedures or colorectal resections. For all these indications, the laparoscopic approach has become the gold standard with less perioperative morbidity. Regarding oncological outcome there have been several high-quality randomized controlled trials which demonstrated equivalency between laparoscopic and open colorectal resections. Less common procedures like esophagectomy, oncological gastrectomy, liver and pancreatic resections can be performed successfully as well by an experienced surgeon. However, the evidence for these special indications is poor and a general recommendation cannot be given. In conclusion, laparoscopic surgery has revolutionized the field of gastrointestinal surgery by reducing perioperative morbidity without disregarding surgical principles especially in oncological surgery.
文摘Over the last several years there has been a growing interest in placebo, not only as an inert control in clinical trials, but also in the placebo effect as a group effect as well as a reaction in individual subjects. Methodological factors such as regression to the mean and natural history of the disease play a role in the evaluation of a possible placebo effect. In this report, we discuss several factors including PavIovian conditioning, beliefs outcome, expectations, and other factors as potential mediators of the placebo response. Placebo effects are common in gastrointestinal diseases and there seems to be no clear difference between placebo effects in functional gastrointestinal diseases (functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome) and organic gastrointestinal disease (duodenal ulcer and inflammatory bowel disease).
基金the laboratory of Maria Kukley was supported by the Excellence Strategy Program of the University of Tübingen(Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft,ZUK63)
文摘In the peripheral nervous system,the vast majority of axons are accommodated within the fibre bundles that constitute the peripheral nerves.Axons within the nerves are in close contact with myelinating glia,the Schwann cells that are ideally placed to respond to,and possibly shape,axonal activity.The mechanisms of intercellular communication in the peripheral nerves may involve direct contact between the cells,as well as signalling via diffusible substances.Neurotransmitter glutamate has been proposed as a candidate extracellular molecule mediating the cross-talk between cells in the peripheral nerves.Two types of experimental findings support this idea:first,glutamate has been detected in the nerves and can be released upon electrical or chemical stimulation of the nerves;second,axons and Schwann cells in the peripheral nerves express glutamate receptors.Yet,the studies providing direct experimental evidence that intercellular glutamatergic signalling takes place in the peripheral nerves during physiological or pathological conditions are largely missing.Remarkably,in the central nervous system,axons and myelinating glia are involved in glutamatergic signalling.This signalling occurs via different mechanisms,the most intriguing of which is fast synaptic communication between axons and oligodendrocyte precursor cells.Glutamate receptors and/or synaptic axon-glia signalling are involved in regulation of proliferation,migration,and differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells,survival of oligodendrocytes,and re-myelination of axons after damage.Does synaptic signalling exist between axons and Schwann cells in the peripheral nerves?What is the functional role of glutamate receptors in the peripheral nerves?Is activation of glutamate receptors in the nerves beneficial or harmful during diseases?In this review,we summarise the limited information regarding glutamate release and glutamate receptors in the peripheral nerves and speculate about possible mechanisms of glutamatergic signalling in the nerves.We highlight the necessity of further research on this topic because it should help to understand the mechanisms of peripheral nervous system development and nerve regeneration during diseases.
文摘AIM To gather data on the antiviral efficacy and safety of second generation direct acting antiviral(DAA) treatment with respect to sustained virological response(SVR) 12 wk after conclusion of treatment, and to determine predictors of SVR12 in this setting.METHODS Two hundred and sixty patients treated with SOF combination partners PR(n = 51), R(n = 10), SMV(n = 30), DCV(n = 81), LDV(n = 73), or 3D(n = 15).144/260 were pre-treated, 89/260 had liver cirrhosis, 56/260 had portal hypertension with platelets < 100/nL, 25/260 had a MELD score ≥ 10 and 17/260 were postliver transplantation patients. 194/260 had HCV GT1, 44/260 HCV GT3.RESULTS Two hundred and forty/256(93.7%) patients achieved SVR12(m ITT); 4/260 were lost to follow-up. SVR12 rates for subgroups were: 92% for SOF/DCV, 93% for each SOF/SMV, SOF/PR, 94% for SOF/LDV, 100% for 3D, 94% for pretreated, 87% for liver cirrhosis, 82% for patients with platelets < 100/n L, 88% post-liver transplantation, 95% for GT1 a, 93% for GT1 b, 90% for GT3, 100% for GT2, 4, and 6. 12 patients suffered from relapse, 6 prematurely discontinued treatment, of which 4 died. Negative predictors of SVR12 were a platelet count < 100/nL, MELD score ≥ 10(P < 0.0001), liver cirrhosis(P = 0.005) at baseline. In Interferonfree treatment GT3 had significantly lower SVR rates than GT1(P = 0.016). Side effects were mild. CONCLUSION Excellent SVR12 rates and the favorable side-effect profile of DAA-combination therapy can be well translated into "real-world". Patients with advanced liver disease, signs of portal hypertension, especially with platelets < 100/n L and patients with GT3 are in special need for further research efforts to overcome comparatively higher rates of virological failure.
文摘Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic pelvic pain (CPP) are both somatoform disorders with a high prevalence within the population in general. The objective was to compare both entities, to find the differences and the similarities related to epidemiology and psychosocial aspects like stressful life events, physical and sexual abuse, illness behaviour and comorbidity. The technical literature was reviewed systematically from 1971 to 2006 and compared. According to literature, IBS and CPP seem to be one rather than two different entities with the same Iocalisation of pain. Both syndromes also are similar concerning prevalence, the coexistence of mental and somatoform disorders, the common history of sexual and physical abuse in the past and their health care utilization. It could be shown that there were many similarities between IBS and CPP. Nevertheless both are traded as different clinical pictures as far. Therefore it seems to be reasonable and necessary to generate a common diagnosis algorithm and to bring gynaecologists and gastroenterologists into dialogue.
文摘AIM: To investigate the expression of nucleoporin 88 (Nup88) in hepatitis B virus (HBV) and C virus (HCV)-related liver diseases. METHODS: We generated a new monoclonal Nup88 antibody to investigate the Nup88 protein expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 294 paraffin-embedded liver specimens comprising all stages of hepatocellular carcinogenesis. In addition, in cell culture experiments HBV-positive (HepG2.2.15 and HB611) and HBV-negative (HepG2) hepatoma cell lines were tested for the Nup88 expression by Western-immunoblotting to test data obtained by IHC.RESULTS: Specific Nup88 expression was found in chronic HCV hepatitis and unspecific chronic hepatitis, whereas no or very weak Nup88 expression was detected in normal liver. The Nup88 expression was markedly reduced or missing in mild chronic HBV infection and inversely correlated with HBcAg expression. Irrespective of the HBV- or HCV-status, increasing Nup88 expression was observed in cirrhosis and dysplastic nodules, and Nup88 was highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinomas. The intensity of Nup88 expression significantly increased during carcinogenesis (P < 0.0001) and correlated with dedifferentiation (P < 0.0001). Interestingly, Nup88 protein expression was significantly downregulated in HBV-positive HepG2.2.15 (P < 0.002) and HB611 (P < 0.001) cell lines as compared to HBV-negative HepG2 cells. CONCLUSION: Based on our immunohistochemical data, HBV and HCV are unlikely to influence the expression of Nup88 in cirrhotic and neoplastic liver tissue, but point to an interaction of HBV with the nuclear pore in chronic hepatitis. The expression of Nup88 in nonneoplastic liver tissue might reflect enhanced metabolic activity of the liver tissue. Our data strongly indicate a dichotomous role for Nup88 in non-neoplastic and neoplastic conditions of the liver.
文摘The overproduction of reactive oxygen species is defined as oxidative stress.While deprived oxygen supply in tissues is known as hypoxia.These mechanisms contribute to the pathogenesis of several retinal diseases,like glaucoma,age-related macular degeneration(AMD),and retinal ischemia.Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease defined by a progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells(RGCs)and their axons causing visual field defects,which ultimately leads to blindness.While AMD pathogenesis is further characterized by soft drusen,it involves the retinal pigment epithelium and the Bruch’s membrane-choroid complex.
文摘Research on gut-brain interactions has increased over the last decade and has brought about a number of new topics beyond "classical" subjects, such as "stress" and personality; which have dominated the psychosomatic literature on gastrointestinal disorders over the past century. These novel topics include brain imaging of intestinal functions, placebo responses in gastroenterology, learning of gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life in patients with intestinal complaints, and psychotherapy and familial aggregation of functional intestinal disorders. Currently, these new topics appear with a frequency of 1% to 3% in leading gastroenterological journals, either as data presentation or review papers. Increasing focus underlines the importance of enhandng our understanding on how the psyche and the brain communicate in order to better meet the needs of our patients.
文摘BACKGROUND Psychiatric disorders are common but underdiagnosed in cancer survivors.Research suggests that tumor type has an effect on the prevalence of clinically relevant depression,anxiety,comorbid anxiety-depression and posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD).AIM To identify studies that examined the prevalence of clinically relevant levels of depression,anxiety,comorbid anxiety-depression and PTSD for patients with one or more tumor sites and compare those prevalences between cancer subtypes.METHODS Four databases(PubMed,PsycInfo,PubPsych and the Cochrane Database)were searched and resulted in a total of 2387 articles to be screened.To be included,a study must have investigated cancer-free and posttreatment survivors using tools to assess clinically relevant levels of the listed psychiatric comorbidities.All articles were screened by two authors with a third author reviewing debated articles.RESULTS Twenty-six studies on ten different tumor types fulfilled all inclusion criteria and were included in the review.The studies showed heterogeneity regarding the study characteristics,number of participants,time since diagnosis,and assessment tools.Generally,all four comorbidities show higher prevalences in cancer survivors than the general population.Brain tumor survivors were reported to have a relatively high prevalence of both depression and anxiety.Studies with melanoma survivors reported high prevalences of all four psychiatric comorbidities.Regarding comorbidities,a wide range in prevalence existed across the tumor types.Within one cancer site,the prevalence also varied considerably among the studies.CONCLUSION Psychiatric comorbidities are more frequent in cancer survivors than in the general population,as reflected by the prevalence of depression,anxiety,comorbid anxiety-depression and PTSD across all tumor subtypes.Developing generalized screening tools that examine psychological distress in cancer survivors up to at least ten years after diagnosis could help to understand and address the psychological burden of cancer survivors.
文摘Purpose: This study examines quality of life and psychological distress in individuals with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser Syndrome (MRKHS) and Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS), two syndromes belonging to the field of “disorders of sex development”. Methods: Fifty women with MRKHS and eleven individuals with CAIS participated. The German versions of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (short version, WHOQOL-Bref), the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-D) were used as standardized instruments to measure quality of life and psychopathology. Additional questions concerning demographic variables and suicidality were included. Results: In both patient samples examined, general quality of life reported was in the average range (CAIS: mean z-score = ﹣0.43, SD = 1.05;MRKHS: mean z-score = ﹣0.11, SD = 1.06). The standardized instrument assessment revealed increased psychological distress (proportion of clinical cases according to the BSI: CAIS: 54.5%;MRKHS: 55.1%). A correlation between psychological distress and time span from first suspicion to diagnosis was found in women with MRKHS (Spearman’s rho = 0.35, p = 0.018). Conclusions: The results illustrate the importance of individualised and thorough diagnostics when dealing with patients with MRKHS or CAIS. Psychological distress might be an issue for these individuals and therefore should be considered in treatment and counselling.
文摘Objectives: The purpose was to show how important is to operate on the Senegalese African children presenting with Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) regardless of their age. Methods: It is a retrospective, descriptive analysis of data from the Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University Hospital of Tuebingen’s data base which was searched for all cases of TOF in foreign patients younger than 15 years between 05/2004-10/2016. Results: 16 children from Senegal with TOF were referred for treatment. Mean age of patients was 7.0 years (range 0.9 - 14.8 years). Primary corrective surgery was performed in 13/16 patients. A primary shunt procedure was required in 3/16 patients. All patients were discharged in good condition with a median 13 postoperative days. We did not register any deaths. All became asymptomatic with pulse oximetry oxygen saturations greater than 95%. The right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) gradient was less than 30 mmHg in all patients and 2 patients had moderate pulmonary valvular insufficiency. Conclusions: It was still necessary to operate Senegalese children presenting with TOF irrespective of their age.
文摘AIM To detect blood withdrawal for patients with arterial blood pressure monitoring to increase patient safety and provide better sample dating.METHODS Blood pressure information obtained from a patient monitor was fed as a real-time data stream to an experimental medical framework. This framework was connected to an analytical application which observes changes in systolic, diastolic and mean pressure to determine anomalies in the continuous data stream. Detection was based on an increased mean blood pressure caused by the closing of the withdrawal three-way tap and an absence of systolic and diastolic measurements during this manipulation. For evaluation of the proposed algorithm, measured data from animal studies in healthy pigs were used.RESULTS Using this novel approach for processing real-time measurement data of arterial pressure monitoring, the exact time of blood withdrawal could be successfully detected retrospectively and in real-time. The algorithm was able to detect 422 of 434(97%) blood withdrawals for blood gas analysis in the retrospective analysis of 7 study trials. Additionally, 64 sampling events for other procedures like laboratory and activated clotting time analyses were detected. The proposed algorithm achieved a sensitivity of 0.97, a precision of 0.96 and an F1 score of 0.97.CONCLUSION Arterial blood pressure monitoring data can be used toperform an accurate identification of individual blood samplings in order to reduce sample mix-ups and thereby increase patient safety.
文摘Liver transplantation(LT)for colorectal liver metastases(CRLM)seems to be nowadays an established treatment,not only of unresectable CRLM(uCRLM)(1)but also for borderline resectable ones(2,3).For these patients,the benefit of LT vs standard modern advanced palliative therapies ranges between 40-80%(1).Notwithstanding the high rates of recurrence,LT can definitely be considered as a curative option,in particular considering the excellent long-term results recently published by the Oslo group(4).
文摘Metastases of uveal melanoma(UM)spread predominantly to the liver.Due to low response rates to systemic therapies,liver-directed therapies(LDT)are commonly used for tumor control.The impact of LDT on the response to systemic treatment is unknown.A total of 182 patients with metastatic UM treated with immune checkpoint blockade(ICB)were included in this analysis.Patients were recruited from prospective skin cancer centers and the German national skin cancer registry(ADOReg)of the German Dermatologic Cooperative Oncology Group(DeCOG).Two cohorts were compared:patients with LDT(cohort A,n=78)versus those without LDT(cohort B,n=104).Data were analyzed for response to treatment,progression-free survival(PFS),and overall survival(OS).The median OS was significantly longer in cohort A than in cohort B(20.1 vs.13.8 months;P=0.0016)and a trend towards improved PFS was observed for cohort A(3.0 vs.2.5 months;P=0.054).The objective response rate to any ICB(16.7%vs.3.8%,P=0.0073)and combined ICB(14.1%vs.4.5%,P=0.017)was more favorable in cohort A.Our data suggest that the combination of LDT with ICB may be associated with a survival benefit and higher treatment response to ICB in patients with metastatic UM.
基金the program of project-related personal exchange of person promoting international mobility of researchers(PPP)jointly funded by the(DAAD)German Academic Exchange Service and(CSC)China Scholarship Council:DAAD grant OsteoZink(Project-ID 57390341)This research was funded by National Key Research and Development Plan(Grant No.2016YFC1102500)+1 种基金Sichuan Science and Technology Program Under(Grant No.2020YFH0077)We would like also to thank the Analytical and Testing Center of Southwest Jiaotong University for the characterization analysis and discussion.The authors would also like to acknowledge scientific advice from Dr.Lutz Scheideler and excellent technical assistance of Mr.Ernst Schweizer and Mrs.Evi Kimmerle-Müller from Section Medical Materials Science and Technology,University Hospital Tübingen.
文摘Appropriately adapted comprehensive mechanical properties,degradation behavior and biocompatibility are prerequisites for the application of Zn-based biodegradable implants.In this study,hot-extruded Zn-0.5Cu-xFe(x=0.1,0.2 and 0.4 wt%)alloys were fabricated as candidates for biodegradable materials for guided bone regeneration(GBR)membranes.The hot-extrusion process and Cu alloying were expected mostly to enhance the mechanical properties,and the Fe alloying was added mainly for regulating the degradation.The microstructure,mechanical properties and in vitro degradation behavior were systematically investigated.The ZnCuFe alloys were composed of a Zn matrix and FeZn13 phase.With increasing Fe content,a higher FeZn13 phase precipitation with larger particles was observed.Since elongation declined significantly until fracture with increasing Fe content up to 0.4 wt%,the ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy achieved a good balance between mechanical strength and ductility,with an ultimate tensile strength of 202.3 MPa and elongation at fracture of 41.2%.Moreover,the addition of Fe successfully accelerated the degradation of ZnCuFe alloys.The ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy showed relatively uniform corrosion in the long-term degradation test.Furthermore,extracts of the ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy showed no apparent cytotoxic effects against L929 fibroblasts,Saos-2 osteoblasts or TAg periosteal cells.The ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy exhibited the potential to inhibit bacterial adhesion of Streptococcus gordonii and mixed oral bacteria.Our study provides evidence that the ZnCuFe(0.2 wt%)alloy can represent a promising material for the application as a suitable GBR membrane.
文摘Liver resection still represent the treatment of choice for liver malignancies,but in some cases inadequate future remnant liver(FRL)can lead to post hepatectomy liver failure(PHLF)that still represents the most common cause of death after hepatectomy.Several strategies in recent era have been developed in order to generate a compensatory hypertrophy of the FRL,reducing the risk of post hepatectomy liver failure.Portal vein embolization,portal vein ligation,and ALLPS are the most popular techniques historically adopted up to now.The liver venous deprivation and the radio-embolization are the most recent promising techniques.Despite even more precise tools to calculate the relationship among volume and function,such as scintigraphy with^(99m)Tc-mebrofenin(HBS),no consensus is still available to define which of the above mentioned augmentation strategy is more adequate in terms of kind of surgery,complexity of the pathology and quality of liver parenchyma.The aim of this article is to analyse these different strategies to achieve sufficient FRL.
文摘Objective:A collaborative team is necessary to help patients achieve their healthcare goals using complementary medicine.At present,healthcare professionals do not feel sufficiently qualified to provide this service.This study sought to identify competencies and teaching methods for interprofessional training on complementary and integrative medicine at medical schools.Methods:Sixty-five German-speaking experts with various professional backgrounds were invited to take part in a three-round Delphi study.In the first round,predefined competencies were assessed on a seven-point Likert scale,and participants were invited to propose additional competencies that would be evaluated in the subsequent rounds.The competencies were ranked based on the participant assessments and were assigned to four relevance groups.In the second and third rounds,suitable teaching methods were identified using free-text fields and multiple-choice questions.In a final workshop,participants synthesized the outcomes of the previous sessions and derived key competencies that would be a benefit to undergraduate interprofessional training in complementary and integrative medicine at medical schools.Results:The three rounds plus final worksop were attended by 50,40,36 and 11 experts.The competencies that these experts determined to be highly relevant to teaching complementary and integrative medicine emphasized,in particular,the respectful treatment of patients and the importance of taking a medical history.From these highly relevant competencies,three key targets were agreed upon in the final workshop:students are able to 1)classify and assess complementary medical terms and methods;2)work collaboratively and integrate patients into the interprofessional team;3)involve patients and their relatives respectfully and empathetically in all healthcare processes.To achieve these competency goals,the following teaching methods were highlighted:students discuss therapy options based on authentic patient cases with each other and practice empathic patient communication incorporating complementary medicine.Further,the theoretical background of complementary medicines could be provided as online-training,to use the class sessions for hands-on exercises and interprofessional exchange and discussion.Conclusion:Despite the heterogeneous panel of experts,a consensus was reached on the competency orientation and teaching approaches.The results can promote the implementation of interprofessional training for complementary medicine in undergraduate education.
基金The study was approved by Independent Ethics Committee(IEC)of Tübingen University Hospital(No.030/2019A)and informed。
文摘Background:Preoperative patient selection in Associating Liver Partition and Portal vein ligation for Staged hepatectomy(ALPPS)is not always reliable with currently available scores,particularly in patients with primary liver tumor.This study aims to(I)to determine whether comorbidities and patients characteristics are a risk factor in ALPPS and(II)to create a score predicting 90-day mortality preoperatively.Methods:Thirteen high-volume centers participated in this retrospective multicentric study.A risk analysis based on patient characteristics,underlying disease and procedure type was performed to identify risk factors and model the Comprehensive ALPPS Preoperative Risk Assessment(CAPRA)score.A nonparametric receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to estimate the predictive ability of our score against the Charlson Comorbidity Index(CCI),the age-adjusted CCI(aCCI),the ALPPS risk score before Stage 1(ALPPS-RS1)and Stage 2(ALPPS-RS2).The model was internally validated applying bootstrapping.Results:A total of 451 patients were included.Mortality was 14.4%.The CAPRA score is calculated based on the following formula:(0.1×age)−(2×BSA)+1(in the presence of primary liver tumor)+1(in the presence of severe cardiovascular disease)+2(in the presence of moderate or severe diabetes)+2(in the presence of renal disease)+2(if classic ALPPS is planned).The predictive ability was 0.837 for the CAPRA score,0.443 for CCI,0.519 for aCCI,0.693 for ALPPS-RS1 and 0.807 for ALPPS-RS2.After 1,000 cycles of bootstrapping the C statistic was 0.793.The accuracy plot revealed a cut-off for optimal prediction of postoperative mortality of 4.70.Conclusions:Comorbidities play an important role in ALPPS and should be carefully considered when planning the procedure.By assessing the patient’s preoperative condition in relation to ALPPS,the CAPRA score has a very good ability to predict postoperative mortality.