Identifiable tumor mutational burden (TMB) in post-operative circulating tumor DNA predicts recurrence in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. TMB detection, unlike AFP, showed significant association with reduced recurrence-free survival and higher recurrence rates. TMB outperformed AFP in predicting post-operative recurrence, with a cut-off of 4.8 mutations/megabase. CTDNA may serve as a valuable surveillance tool post-hepatectomy, warranting larger […]
Category: HPB & Spleen
Establishment of a patient-specific organoid model for timely pancreatic cancer treatment
Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) from EUS-guided biopsies show high success rate in establishing models for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PDAC PDOs accurately reflect genetic alterations in the original tumors and predict drug sensitivity, including resistance to nab-paclitaxel. This innovative model enables rapid testing of multiple therapeutic drugs, offering a personalized “patient avatar” for timely clinical decision-making […]
Beneficial outcomes of total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation in genetic pancreatitis
Total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) provides beneficial metabolic and pain relief outcomes in patients with genetic chronic pancreatitis. Patients with genetic etiology undergo TPIAT at a younger age, experience longer symptom duration, and yield lower islet mass, yet maintain similar metabolic function post-transplant. Post-TPIAT, narcotic usage and pain scores significantly decrease, with more genetic […]
Frailty Predicts Higher Morbidity and Mortality After Liver Surgery
Frail patients undergoing liver resections exhibit increased rates of major complications, postoperative liver failure, mortality, and readmission compared to nonfrail patients. Frailty emerges as a robust predictive factor for adverse surgical outcomes, emphasizing the necessity of considering frailty as a critical selection criterion for liver surgery in at-risk patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis involving […]
Thick mesopancreas predicts surgical outcomes in pancreaticoduodenectomy
Patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy with a thick mesopancreas face significantly longer operative times, higher estimated blood loss, fewer resected lymph nodes, increased overall and major morbidities, and prolonged hospital stays. This study underscores the mesopancreas thickness as a critical predictor of surgical outcomes, surpassing the predictive value of body mass index. Tailoring surgical strategies based on […]
Structured model for regional pancreas unit network implementation
Lombardy, Italy established pancreas units to improve outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients. The model, emphasizing centralized care, multidisciplinary collaboration, and minimum requirements, offers a structured framework for enhancing pancreatic cancer care. This initiative has the potential for broader application in regions and countries aiming to enhance their cancer care infrastructure. Journal Article by Balzano G, […]
Gut microbiome changes in chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer
Gut microbiome analysis in chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer patients revealed significant alterations in microbial composition, with reduced diversity and changes at both phylum and genus levels. These differences, including decreased beneficial and increased pathogenic species, could be indicative of disease. Further research is required to validate findings and explore potential therapeutic interventions based on […]
French Intergrup Clinical Practice Guidelines for Ampullary Tumors
French intergroup guidelines provide recommendations for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of ampullary tumors based on expert opinions and recent literature review. Emphasizing multidisciplinary approach, guidelines suggest endoscopic papillectomy or surgical papillectomy for adenoma, and pancreaticoduodenectomy for carcinoma. Adjuvant monochemotherapy or polychemotherapy is recommended for aggressive tumors. Long-term follow-up is crucial for 5 years. Guidelines […]
Improved Pancreaticojejunostomy Reduces Fistula Risk
A novel single-layer continuous dunking pancreaticojejunostomy with falciform ligament reinforcement shows promising results in preventing post-operative pancreatic fistulae following pancreaticoduodenectomy. The technique demonstrated low complication rates and successful adjuvant chemotherapy completion in the majority of patients. This simplified approach offers a feasible and effective option for pancreatic reconstructions, potentially improving patient outcomes in pancreatic resections. […]
Multidisciplinary conferences enhance survival in colorectal liver metastases
Assessment by a multidisciplinary team conference, particularly with a liver surgeon present, was linked to better overall survival in patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases. Patients residing near a hospital with a hepatobiliary unit were more likely to receive liver surgery and had improved median survival. Geographical location influenced access to treatment, with no observed […]
