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Digestive Surgery 2020Bile duct injury (BDI) is a devastating complication following cholecystectomy. After initial management of BDI, patients stay at risk for late complications including...
BACKGROUND
Bile duct injury (BDI) is a devastating complication following cholecystectomy. After initial management of BDI, patients stay at risk for late complications including anastomotic strictures, recurrent cholangitis, and secondary biliary cirrhosis.
METHODS
We provide a comprehensive overview of current literature on the long-term outcome of BDI. Considering the availability of only limited data regarding treatment of anastomotic strictures in literature, we also retrospectively analyzed patients with anastomotic strictures following a hepaticojejunostomy (HJ) from a prospectively maintained database of 836 BDI patients.
RESULTS
Although clinical outcomes of endoscopic, radiologic, and surgical treatment of BDI are good with success rates of around 90%, quality of life (QoL) may be impaired even after "clinically successful" treatment. Following surgical treatment, the incidence of anastomotic strictures varies from 5 to 69%, with most studies reporting incidences around 10-20%. The median time to stricture formation varies between 11 and 30 months. Long-term BDI-related mortality varies between 1.8 and 4.6%. Of 91 patients treated in our center for anastomotic strictures after HJ, 81 (89%) were treated by percutaneous balloon dilatation, with a long-term success rate of 77%. Twenty-four patients primarily or secondarily underwent surgical revision, with recurrent strictures occurring in 21%.
CONCLUSIONS
The long-term impact of BDI is considerable, both in terms of clinical outcomes and QoL. Treatment should be performed in tertiary expert centers to optimize outcomes. Patients require a long-term follow-up to detect anastomotic strictures. Strictures should initially be managed by percutaneous dilatation, with surgical revision as a next step in treatment.
Topics: Anastomosis, Roux-en-Y; Bile Ducts; Cholangitis; Cholecystectomy; Constriction, Pathologic; Dilatation; Humans; Iatrogenic Disease; Jejunum; Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary; Prognosis; Quality of Life; Recurrence; Reoperation; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 30654363
DOI: 10.1159/000496432 -
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics Aug 2018Fibrotic stricture is a common complication of Crohn's disease (CD) affecting approximately half of all patients. No specific anti-fibrotic therapies are available;...
BACKGROUND
Fibrotic stricture is a common complication of Crohn's disease (CD) affecting approximately half of all patients. No specific anti-fibrotic therapies are available; however, several therapies are currently under evaluation. Drug development for the indication of stricturing CD is hampered by a lack of standardised definitions, diagnostic modalities, clinical trial eligibility criteria, endpoints and treatment targets in stricturing CD.
AIM
To standardise definitions, diagnosis and treatment targets for anti-fibrotic stricture therapies in Chron's disease.
METHODS
An interdisciplinary expert panel consisting of 15 gastroenterologists and radiologists was assembled. Using modified RAND/University of California Los Angeles appropriateness methodology, 109 candidate items derived from systematic review and expert opinion focusing on small intestinal strictures were anonymously rated as inappropriate, uncertain or appropriate. Survey results were discussed as a group before a second and third round of voting.
RESULTS
Fibrotic strictures are defined by the combination of luminal narrowing, wall thickening and pre-stenotic dilation. Definitions of anastomotic (at site of prior intestinal resection with anastomosis) and naïve small bowel strictures were similar; however, there was uncertainty regarding wall thickness in anastomotic strictures. Magnetic resonance imaging is considered the optimal technique to define fibrotic strictures and assess response to therapy. Symptomatic strictures are defined by abdominal distension, cramping, dietary restrictions, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and post-prandial abdominal pain. Need for intervention (endoscopic balloon dilation or surgery) within 24-48 weeks is considered the appropriate endpoint in pharmacological trials.
CONCLUSIONS
Consensus criteria for diagnosis and response to therapy in stricturing Crohn's disease should inform both clinical practice and trial design.
Topics: Catheterization; Clinical Trials as Topic; Colon; Consensus; Constriction, Pathologic; Crohn Disease; Dilatation; Endoscopy; Expert Testimony; Fibrosis; Humans; Intestinal Obstruction; Intestine, Small; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Reference Standards
PubMed: 29920726
DOI: 10.1111/apt.14853 -
Journal of Crohn's & Colitis Feb 2018Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis removes the diseased tissue in ulcerative colitis but also allows gastrointestinal continuity and... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis removes the diseased tissue in ulcerative colitis but also allows gastrointestinal continuity and stoma-free living. Pouch strictures are a complication with a reported incidence of 5-38%. The three areas where pouch strictures occur are in the pouch inlet, mid-pouch and pouch-anal anastomosis.
AIM
To undertake a systematic review of the literature and to identify management strategies available for pouch-anal, mid-pouch and pre-pouch ileal strictures and their outcomes.
METHODS
A computer-assisted search of the online bibliographic databases MEDLINE and EMBASE limited to 1966 to February 2016 was performed. Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, observational studies and case reports were considered. Those where data could not be extracted were excluded.
RESULTS
Twenty-two articles were considered eligible. Pouch-anal strictures have been initially managed using predominately dilators which include bougie and Hegar dilators with various surgical procedures advocated when initial dilatation fails. Mid-pouch strictures are relatively unstudied with both medical, endoscopic and surgical management reported as successful. Pouch inlet strictures can be safely managed using a combined medical and endoscopic approach.
CONCLUSION
The limited evidence available suggests that pouch-anal strictures are best treated in a stepwise fashion with initial treatment to include digital or instrumental dilatation followed by surgical revision or resection. Management of mid-pouch strictures requires a combination of medical, endoscopic and surgical management. Pouch inlet strictures are best managed using a combined medical and endoscopic approach. Future studies should compare different treatment modalities on separate stricture locations to enable an evidenced-based treatment algorithm.
Topics: Colonic Pouches; Constriction, Pathologic; Digestive System Surgical Procedures; Dilatation; Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal; Humans; Ileum
PubMed: 29155985
DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjx151 -
World Journal of Gastroenterology Dec 2017To evaluate the therapeutic role of double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) in small bowel strictures and to propose a standard approach to small bowel strictures. (Review)
Review
AIM
To evaluate the therapeutic role of double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) in small bowel strictures and to propose a standard approach to small bowel strictures.
METHODS
Systematic review of studies involving DBE in patients with small bowel strictures. Only studies limited to small bowel strictures were included and those with ileo-colonic strictures were excluded.
RESULTS
In total 13 studies were included, in which 310 patients were dilated. The average follow-up time was 31.8 mo per patient. The complication rate was 4.8% per patient and 2.6% per dilatation. Surgery was avoided in 80% of patients. After the first dilatation, 46% were treated with re-dilatation and only 17% required surgery.
CONCLUSION
DBE-assisted dilatation avoids surgery in 80% of patients with small bowel strictures and is safe and effective. We propose a standardized approach to small bowel strictures.
Topics: Constriction, Pathologic; Dilatation; Double-Balloon Enteroscopy; Humans; Intestinal Obstruction; Intestine, Small; Postoperative Complications; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 29259383
DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i45.8073 -
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics Nov 2015Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) is recognised treatment for symptomatic Crohn's strictures. Several case series report its efficacy. A systematic analysis for... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) is recognised treatment for symptomatic Crohn's strictures. Several case series report its efficacy. A systematic analysis for overall efficacy can inform the design of future studies.
AIM
To examine symptomatic (SR) and technical response (TR) and adverse events (AE) of EBD. Stricture characteristics were also explored.
METHODS
A systematic search strategy of COCHRANE, MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed. All original studies reporting outcomes of EBD for Crohn's strictures were included. SR was defined as obstructive symptom-free outcome at the end of follow-up, TR as post-dilatation passage of the endoscope through a stricture, and adverse event as the presence of complication (perforation and/or bleeding). Pooled event rates across studies were expressed with summative statistics.
RESULTS
Twenty-five studies included 1089 patients and 2664 dilatations. Pooled event rates for SR, TR, complications and perforations were 70.2% (95% CI: 60-78.8%), 90.6% (95% CI: 87.8-92.8%), 6.4% (95% CI: 5.0-8.2) and 3% (95% CI: 2.2-4.0%) respectively. Cumulative surgery rate at 5 year follow-up was 75%. Pooled unweighted TR, SR, complication, perforation and surgery rates were 84%, 45%, 15%, 9% and 21% for de novo and 84%, 58%, 22%, 5% and 32% for anastomotic strictures. Outcomes between two stricture types were no different on subgroup meta-analysis.
CONCLUSIONS
Efficacy and complication rates for endoscopic balloon dilatation were higher than previously reported. From the few studies with 5 year follow-up the majority required surgery. Future studies are needed to determine whether endoscopic balloon dilatation has significant long-term benefits.
Topics: Constriction, Pathologic; Crohn Disease; Dilatation; Endoscopy; Humans; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 26358739
DOI: 10.1111/apt.13388 -
European Heart Journal Sep 2023International guidelines recommend screening of first-degree relatives (FDR) of people with bicuspid aortic valves (BAVs). However, the prevalence of BAV and of aortic... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
AIMS
International guidelines recommend screening of first-degree relatives (FDR) of people with bicuspid aortic valves (BAVs). However, the prevalence of BAV and of aortic dilatation amongst family members is uncertain.
METHODS AND RESULTS
A systematic review and meta-analysis of original reports of screening for BAV. Databases including MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from inception to December 2021 using relevant search terms. Data were sought on the screened prevalence of BAV and aortic dilatation. The protocol was specified prior to the searches being performed, and standard meta-analytic techniques were used. Twenty-three observational studies met inclusion criteria (n = 2297 index cases; n = 6054 screened relatives). The prevalence of BAV amongst relatives was 7.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) 6.1%-8.6%] overall and per family was 23.6% (95% CI 18.1%-29.5%). The prevalence of aortic dilatation amongst relatives was 9.4% (95% CI 5.7%-13.9%). Whilst the prevalence of aortic dilatation was particularly high in relatives with BAV (29.2%; 95% CI 15.3%-45.1%), aortic dilatation alongside tricuspid aortic valves was a more frequent finding, as there were many more family members with tricuspid valves than BAV. The prevalence estimate amongst relatives with tricuspid valves (7.0%; 95% CI 3.2%-12.0%) was higher than reported in the general population.
CONCLUSION
Screening family members of people with BAV can identify a cohort substantially enriched for the presence of bicuspid valve, aortic enlargement, or both. The implications for screening programmes are discussed, including in particular the substantial current uncertainties regarding the clinical implications of aortic findings.
Topics: Humans; Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease; Heart Valve Diseases; Dilatation; Aortic Valve; Aortic Diseases; Dilatation, Pathologic; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 37288540
DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad320 -
BMC Gastroenterology Feb 2023Gastrointestinal strictures impact clinical presentation in abdominal tuberculosis and are associated with significant morbidity. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Gastrointestinal strictures impact clinical presentation in abdominal tuberculosis and are associated with significant morbidity.
AIM
To conduct a systematic review of the prevalence of stricturing disease in abdominal and gastrointestinal tuberculosis and response to antitubercular therapy (ATT).
METHODS
We searched Pubmed and Embase on 13th January 2022, for papers reporting on the frequency and outcomes of stricturing gastrointestinal tuberculosis. The data were extracted, and pooled prevalence of stricturing disease was estimated in abdominal tuberculosis and gastrointestinal (intestinal) tuberculosis. The pooled clinical response and stricture resolution (endoscopic or radiologic) rates were also estimated. Publication bias was assessed using the Funnel plot and Egger test. The risk of bias assessment was done using a modified Newcastle Ottawa Scale.
RESULTS
Thirty-three studies reporting about 1969 patients were included. The pooled prevalence of intestinal strictures in abdominal tuberculosis and gastrointestinal TB was 0.12 (95%CI 0.07-0.20, I = 89%) and 0.27 (95% CI 0.21-0.33, I = 85%), respectively. The pooled clinical response of stricturing gastrointestinal tuberculosis to antitubercular therapy was 0.77 (95%CI 0.65-0.86, I = 74%). The pooled stricture response rate (endoscopic or radiological) was 0.66 (95%CI 0.40-0.85, I = 91%). The pooled rate of need for surgical intervention was 0.21 (95%CI 0.13-0.32, I = 70%), while endoscopic dilatation was 0.14 (95%CI 0.09-0.21, I = 0%).
CONCLUSION
Stricturing gastrointestinal tuberculosis occurs in around a quarter of patients with gastrointestinal tuberculosis, and around two-thirds of patients have a clinical response with antitubercular therapy. A subset of patients may need endoscopic or surgical intervention. The estimates for the pooled prevalence of stricturing disease and response to ATT had significant heterogeneity.
Topics: Humans; Constriction, Pathologic; Tuberculosis, Gastrointestinal; Antitubercular Agents; Intestinal Obstruction; Abdomen
PubMed: 36814249
DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-02682-x -
Journal of Hypertension Oct 2014The risk of thoracic aortic dissection is strictly related to the diameter of the ascending aorta. Arterial hypertension represents a major risk factor for the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVE
The risk of thoracic aortic dissection is strictly related to the diameter of the ascending aorta. Arterial hypertension represents a major risk factor for the development of aortic dissection and is thought to be directly involved in the pathogenesis of aortic aneurysms. Recent studies have suggested a high prevalence of aortic root enlargement in the hypertensive population, but evidence of a direct link between blood pressure values and size of the aortic root has been inconclusive so far. The aim of the current study was to evaluate prevalence of aortic root dilatation (ARD) in the hypertensive population and to assess the correlates of this condition.
METHODS
Medical literature was reviewed to identify articles assessing prevalence of echocardiographic ARD in hypertensive patients.
RESULTS
A total of eight studies including 10 791 hypertensive patients were considered. Prevalence of ARD in the pooled population was 9.1% with a marked difference between men and women (12.7 vs. 4.5%; odds ratio 3.15; 95% confidence interval 2.68-3.71). Hypertensive patients with ARD and those with normal aortic root size had similar office blood pressure values, but the former were older and had a significantly higher left-ventricular mass (0.52 SDs, 95% confidence interval 0.41-0.63).
CONCLUSION
ARD is a common phenotype in hypertensive patients, with men showing a markedly higher susceptibility, but office blood pressure values do not appear to be directly associated with aortic root diameter.
Topics: Aorta; Aortic Valve; Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease; Blood Pressure; Blood Pressure Determination; Dilatation, Pathologic; Echocardiography; Female; Heart Defects, Congenital; Heart Valve Diseases; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Prevalence; Risk Factors
PubMed: 24979304
DOI: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000000286 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Sep 2014Vaginal dilation therapy is advocated after pelvic radiotherapy to prevent stenosis (abnormal narrowing of the vagina), but can be uncomfortable and psychologically... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Vaginal dilation therapy is advocated after pelvic radiotherapy to prevent stenosis (abnormal narrowing of the vagina), but can be uncomfortable and psychologically distressing.
OBJECTIVES
To assess the benefits and harms of different types of vaginal dilation methods offered to women treated by pelvic radiotherapy for cancer.
SEARCH METHODS
Searches included the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2013, Issue 5), MEDLINE (1950 to June week 2, 2013), EMBASE (1980 to 2013 week 24) and CINAHL (1982 to 2013).
SELECTION CRITERIA
Comparative data of any type, which evaluated dilation or penetration of the vagina after pelvic radiotherapy treatment for cancer.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Two review authors independently assessed whether potentially relevant studies met the inclusion criteria. We found no trials and therefore analysed no data.
MAIN RESULTS
We identified no studies for inclusion in the original review or for this update. However, we felt that some studies that were excluded warranted discussion. These included one randomised trial (RCT), which showed no improvement in sexual scores associated with encouraging women to practise dilation therapy; a recent small RCT that did not show any advantage to dilation over vibration therapy during radiotherapy; two non-randomised comparative studies; and five correlation studies. One of these showed that objective measurements of vaginal elasticity and length were not linked to dilation during radiotherapy, but the study lacked power. One study showed that women who dilated tolerated a larger dilator, but the risk of objectivity and bias with historical controls was high. Another study showed that the vaginal measurements increased in length by a mean of 3 cm after dilation was introduced 6 to 10 weeks after radiotherapy, but there was no control group; another case series showed the opposite. Three recent studies showed less stenosis associated with prophylactic dilation after radiotherapy. One small case series suggested that dilation years after radiotherapy might restore the vagina to a functional length.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
There is no reliable evidence to show that routine, regular vaginal dilation during radiotherapy treatment prevents stenosis or improves quality of life. Several observational studies have examined the effect of dilation therapy after radiotherapy. They suggest that frequent dilation practice is associated with lower rates of self reported stenosis. This could be because dilation is effective or because women with a healthy vagina are more likely to comply with dilation therapy instructions compared to women with strictures. We would normally suggest that a RCT is needed to distinguish between a casual and causative link, but pilot studies highlight many reasons why RCT methodology is challenging in this area.
Topics: Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Benzydamine; Brachytherapy; Constriction, Pathologic; Dilatation; Estrogens; Female; Humans; Hyperbaric Oxygenation; Pelvis; Radiation Injuries; Radiotherapy; Rupture; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Time Factors; Vagina
PubMed: 25198150
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007291.pub3 -
Annals of Vascular Surgery Nov 2022For arteriovenous fistula (AVF) presence of a venous segment with adequate diameter is essential which is lacking in many patients. To find the optimal augmentation... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Primary Balloon Angioplasty Versus Hydrostatic Dilation for Arteriovenous Fistula Creation in Patients with Small-Caliber Cephalic Veins: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
BACKGROUND
For arteriovenous fistula (AVF) presence of a venous segment with adequate diameter is essential which is lacking in many patients. To find the optimal augmentation technique in patients with small-caliber cephalic vein (i.e., cephalic vein diameter <3 mm), studies compared primary balloon angioplasty (PBA) versus hydrostatic dilation (HD); however, it remained debatable. This systematic review seeks to determine which technique is preferable.
METHODS
We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar. Primary outcomes were 6-month primary patency, reintervention, and working AVF. Secondary outcomes were immediate success, the AVF's maturation time (day), and surgical site infection.
RESULTS
Three randomized controlled trials yielding 180 patients were included, of which 89 patients were in the PBA group. The odds ratio (OR) of primary patency was significantly higher in the PBA group (OR 6.09, 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.36-15.76, P = 0.0002), the OR of reintervention was significantly lower in the PBA group (OR 0.16, 95% CI, 0.06-0.42, P = 0.0002), and the OR of working AVF was greater in PBA group (OR 4.22, 95% CI, 1.31-13.59, P = 0.02). The OR of immediate success was significantly greater in the PBA group (OR 11.42, 95% CI, 2.54-51.42, P = 0.002), and the AVF maturation time was significantly shorter in patients who underwent PBA (mean difference -20.32 days, 95% CI, -30.12 to -10.52, P = 0.0001). The certainty of the evidence was high.
CONCLUSIONS
PBA of small cephalic veins with diameter ≤2.5 cm is a safe, feasible, and efficacious augmentation method for AVF creation. This technique achieves favorable maturation outcomes, and PBA is superior to the standard hydrostatic dilatation technique.
Topics: Humans; Arteriovenous Shunt, Surgical; Dilatation; Renal Dialysis; Treatment Outcome; Angioplasty, Balloon; Arteriovenous Fistula; Dilatation, Pathologic; Vascular Patency; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 36029949
DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2022.07.025