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Like esophageal varices, cardiac varices are often treated with endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL). However, we previously reported that EVL for cardiac varices may be associated with a high risk of rebleeding from the ulcer if the O-ring spontaneously drops off early. The efficacy and safety of para-variceal endoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EIS) with polidocanol for the treatment of cardiac varices in children and adolescents were evaluated.Eleven patients under 18 years of age with portal hypertension who underwent para-variceal EIS with polidocanol for cardiac varices with red signs, which were considered to be at high risk of bleeding, were retrospectively reviewed.One session of para-variceal polidocanol-EIS was performed for each of the 11 patients. One patient experienced temporary hypoxia due to aspiration of saliva when the tracheal intubation tube was removed after the procedure but recovered by endotracheal suctioning; there were no other adverse events. In six of the eight cases in which efficacy could be evaluated, eradication of cardiac varices was achieved.Para-variceal polidocanol-EIS may be considered instead of EVL for small cardiac varices with red signs in pediatric patients with cardiac varices.

Purpose: It is important for patients with biliary atresia (BA) to retain the native liver after Kasai portoenterostomy (PE). Laparoscopic PE (Lap-PE) is standard, whereas laparoscopic revision of PE (Lap-revision) is performed as needed. We report the medium-term outcomes of Lap-revision. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the demographics and outcomes of 63 patients who underwent Lap-PE between 2013 and 2021. Indications for revision included recurrent jaundice, repeat cholangitis, and persistent jaundice with temporary biliary excretion following the initial PE. We compared liver transplantation (LT) data of patients who underwent Lap-revision with those of patients who did not. Results: Lap-revision was performed in 20 patients. Of those 17 (excluding the two who were jaundice-free before the age of 1, and the one who underwent open conversion for bleeding), 11 (65%) were jaundice-free 1 year after Lap-revision. The surgical parameters of LT did not differ between patients who underwent Lap-revision and those who did not. Conclusion: Lap-revision for patients with BA had a limited but positive effect on native liver survival and did not adversely affect subsequent LT. Therefore, Lap-revision could be second-line standard therapy in patients with BA who have demonstrated biliary drainage at least once after initial PE.

BACKGROUND Biliary atresia (BA) is a rare pediatric disease. AIM To compare the outcomes of laparoscopic portoenterostomy (Lap-PE) with those of laparotomy (Open-PE) at a single institution. METHODS The surgical outcomes of PE were retrospectively analyzed for patients with a non-correctable type of BA from 2003 to 2020. RESULTS Throughout the assessment period, 119 patients received PE for BA treatment, including 66 Open-PE and 53 Lap-PE cases. Although the operation duration was longer (medians: for Open-PE, 242 min; for Lap-PE, 341 min; P < 0.001), blood loss was considerably less (medians: for Open-PE, 52 mL; for Lap-PE, 24 mL; P < 0.001) in the Lap-PE group than in the Open-PE group. The postoperative recovery of the Lap-PE group was more favorable; specifically, both times to resume oral intake and drain removal were significantly shorter in the Lap-PE group. Complete resolution of jaundice was observed in 45 Open-PE cases and 42 Lap-PE cases, with no statistically significant difference (P = 0.176). Native liver survival rates were >80% for both groups for the first half year post surgery, followed by a gradual decrease with time; there were no statistically significant differences in the native liver survival rates for any durations assessed. CONCLUSION Lap-PE could be a standard therapy for BA.

A 79-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of sudden onset of left ataxic hemiparesis. Brain MRI diffusion weighted images showed typical lacunar infarction on the right internal capsule. He had no risk factors of cerebrovascular disorder such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia and arrhythmia. On admission, he had a slight fever and his laboratory data showed anemia, thrombocytopenia and elevation of CRP and LDH. Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) was suspected because the serum level of soluble IL-2 receptor was also elevated. Pathological diagnosis of IVLBCL was underwent by the skin biopsy from his senile hemangiomas. Although IVLBCL was known to demonstrate various CNS lesions, it is extremely rare to be manifested as a single lacunar infarction, and this case must be important for the differential diagnosis.

Purpose Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) causes fatal intestinal necrosis in neonates, but its etiology is unknown. We analyzed the intestinal immune response to NEC. Methods Using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we analyzed the gene-expression profiles of intestinal immune cells from four neonates with intestinal perforation (two with NEC and two without NEC). Target mononuclear cells were extracted from the lamina propria of the resected intestines. Results In all four cases, the major immune cells, such as T cells (15.1–47.7%), B cells (3.1–19.0%), monocytes (16.5–31.2%), macrophages (1.6–17.4%), dendritic cells (2.4–12.2%), and natural killer cells (7.5–12.8%), were present in similar proportions to those in the neonatal cord blood. Gene set enrichment analysis showed that the MTOR, TNF-α, and MYC signaling pathways were enriched in T cells of the NEC patients, suggesting upregulated immune responses related to inflammation and cell proliferation. In addition, all four cases exhibited a bias toward cell-mediated inflammation, based on the predominance of T helper 1 cells. Conclusion Intestinal immunity in NEC subjects exhibited stronger inflammatory responses compared to non-NEC subjects. Further scRNA-seq and cellular analysis may improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of NEC.

Background We encountered two cases of a new type of retroperitoneal hernia. We herein report the unique features of these cases. Case presentation Case 1: A Japanese girl was born at a gestational age of 37 weeks, weighing 2550 g. She underwent laparotomic left diaphragmatic hernia repair for a left Bochdalek hernia at the age of one day. The postoperative course was uneventful; however, chest radiography at the age of 35 days revealed bowel gas in the mediastinum, while computed tomography exhibited intestinal prolapses from the medial side of the mesh into the thoracic cavity. Reoperation was performed at the age of 77 days, showing that the defect hole was not at the diaphragm but in the absence of retropancreatic fascia, which was connected to the posterior mediastinum from the supramesocolic space. The mediastinum space was closed with a suturing spine and artificial mesh, and the defect hole in the pancreatic body was sutured. Case 2: A Japanese boy was born at a gestational age of 40 weeks, weighing 3502 g. He was diagnosed with a left diaphragmatic hernia at birth and underwent laparotomy at the age of two days. Operative findings showed no defect hole in the diaphragm, and no intestine was observed in the abdominal cavity. After close observation of the abdominal cavity, the intestine was found around the pancreatic body, and manual reduction of the intestine was performed. The defect hole existed in the absence of the retropancreatic fascia, which was connected to the extra-pleural space. The defect hole in the pancreatic body was sutured and closed with a non-absorbable thread. Conclusions We assumed that our cases were a new type of retroperitoneal hernia, which we named “retropancreatic fascia hernia”.

Most studies reporting the outcomes of laparoscopic ovarian prolapsed hernia operations with large sample sizes are based on intracorporeal closure, while studies on extraperitoneal closure have limited sample sizes. We proactively used the single-incision laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (SILPEC) technique and obtained favorable outcomes, which we report in this paper. We retrospectively reviewed patients who had undergone laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernia at our institution. They were retrospectively classified into two groups based on the pre- or intraoperative diagnosis of hernia with a prolapsed ovary, namely the prolapse group and the non-prolapse group, respectively. The data were statistically analyzed and p

Purpose Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) due to esophageal varices (EV) is one of the factors that negatively impacts native liver survival of patients with biliary atresia (BA). Gastrointestinal fibroscopy (GIF) is usually used to determine the presence of EVs; however, it require general anesthesia. The aim of this study is to search for markers in blood tests obtained during routine check-ups that can predict the development of GIB. Methods Data of patients with BA who underwent portoenterostomy at our hospital from 2014 to 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients’ data were assigned to three groups according to specific time points: Group B, which included data at GIB; Group NB-T, which included data at GIF and EV treatment; and Group NB-NT, which included data at GIF without treatment. The data in Group B were compared to those of other groups. Results In our study, GIB occurred in 11 patients, and 12 cases, and 8 cases were classified into Groups NB-NT and NB-T, respectively. Compared with the other groups, only ChE and M2BPGi in Group B showed statistically significant differences. Conclusions ChE and M2BPGi are useful for predicting GIB.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of adding a spur valve to laparoscopic portoenterostomy for patients with biliary atresia. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients diagnosed with biliary atresia (BA) who underwent laparoscopic portoenterostomy (Lap-PE) between 2013 and 2021. The patients were divided into two groups: Lap-PE with a spur valve (spur group) and without it (control group). Perioperative management was the same in both groups. We compared patient backgrounds and clinical outcomes, including jaundice clearance and the number of postoperative cholangitis episodes. Results: Of 63 patients reviewed, 16 received a spur valve. There were no statistically significant differences in the patient backgrounds between the groups. All patients in the spur group achieved jaundice clearance. The number of postoperative cholangitis episodes one year after surgery was significantly lower in the spur group than in the control group (1 [0–3] vs. 3 [0–9], p = 0.04). The jaundice-free survival rate with the native liver at one year after surgery was significantly higher in the spur group (100% vs. 53%, p= 0.01). Conclusions: Adding a spur valve during Lap-PE significantly lowered the number of cholangitis episodes one year after surgery.

One of the main causes of stricture at hepaticojejunostomy site after surgery for congenital biliary dilatation is inflammation or infection associated with bile leak. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors and outcomes of bile leak after laparoscopic surgery. We retrospectively reviewed the demographics and outcomes of patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for congenital biliary dilatation between September 2013 and December 2019. Data from patients with bile leak were compared to data from patients without bile leak. Fourteen of 78 patients had bile leak. Hepatic duct diameter at anastomosis was the only risk factor of bile leak. Patients with the diameter ≤ 10 mm had higher incidence of bile leak than in patients with the diameter > 10 mm (P = 0.0023). Among them, bile leak occurred more frequently in patients operated on by non-qualified surgeons based on the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery endoscopic surgical skill qualification system than by qualified surgeons (P = 0.027). However, none of the patients with bile leak developed anastomotic stricture afterwards. Although good technical skill is necessary to avoid bile leak in narrow hepatic duct cases (≤ 10 mm), slight bile leak may not result in anastomotic stricture.

Purpose This study aimed to investigate the negative effects of intestinal obstruction for jaundice-free native liver survival after Kasai portoenterostomy (PE) for biliary atresia (BA). Methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who underwent PE for BA between 2006 and 2019. We evaluated the postoperative morbidity of intestinal obstruction for up to 2 years after PE and the effects of intestinal obstruction on jaundice-free native liver survival. On the basis of their initial operation, patients were divided into open portoenterostomy (Open-PE) and laparoscopic portoenterostomy (Lap-PE) groups, and morbidity was compared. Results Of the 87 patients reviewed, 6 (6.9%) patients developed postoperative intestinal obstruction and underwent surgery to relieve the obstruction. The morbidity of early postoperative intestinal obstruction was 1.68 per 10,000 person days. The jaundice-free native liver survival rate among patients who once achieved jaundice-free status after PE was significantly lower in the patients with intestinal obstruction compared to in those without intestinal obstruction (0% vs. 73.8%; RR = 3.81, p = 0.007). No significant differences were seen in postoperative intestinal obstructions between the Open-PE and Lap-PE groups (p = 0.242). Conclusions Intestinal obstruction negatively impact jaundice-free native liver survival, even in patients who once achieved jaundice-free status after PE for BA.

Purpose: Although we generally perform thoracoscopic lobectomy for congenital lung cysts (CLCs), we recently began performing thoracoscopic-limited pulmonary resection (segmentectomy or small partial lung resection) on relatively small lesions and on lesions involving multiple lobes. Our study aimed to determine the therapeutic outcomes of thoracoscopic CLC surgery. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients aged ≤ 18 years who underwent their first CLC surgery at our facility between 2013 and 2020. Results: A comparison between patients

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors often increase the hematocrit. It remains unclear whether this increase would be observed in all patients administered SGLT2 inhibitors, however. We therefore used the data from the previous study and investigated time-dependent alterations of various outcomes related to erythrocytes, erythropoiesis, and clinical outcome in type 2 diabetes subjects (n = 89) treated with ipragliflozin for 16 weeks. Among a total of 89 participants, 71 subjects (80.0% of total participants) showed the elevation of the hematocrit and 18 subjects (20.0% of total participants) did not at 16 weeks. Although the hematocrit levels at baseline were significantly lower in hematocrit-elevated group than non-elevated group, they reached the same levels 4 weeks after the onset of treatment. Binomial logistic regression analysis demonstrated that a lower baseline hematocrit level was related to the elevation of hematocrit at 16 weeks. Optimal cutoff hematocrit levels at baseline to predict hematocrit elevation were 46.9% (male) and 41.7% (female) in ROC analysis. Random intercept model analysis revealed the serum erythropoietin level increased in both hematocrit-elevated and non-elevated groups, whereas only the former group showed an increase in the percentage of reticulocytes during the first 4 weeks. These results suggest that the ipragliflozin-induced increase in hematocrit which is affected by the baseline hematocrit level is attributable to the responsiveness to, but not to the production of, erythropoietin. Collectively, Ht elevation observed in administration of SGLT2 inhibitors can result from erythropoietin-induced erythropoiesis, which is determined by the pre-treatment Ht level. Trial registration: This trial has been registered with University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN-CTR no. 000015478).

Purpose: Though gastric volvulus in neonates and infants resolves by conservative therapy and aging, some cases require surgical intervention. This study aimed to review the cases of gastric volvulus requiring surgical intervention and evaluate their characteristics. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed gastric volvulus cases requiring surgical intervention. Surgical indication was persistent acute gastric volvulus and repeated hospitalization for gastric volvulus. We evaluated the characteristics of those cases requiring surgical intervention and the surgical results of laparoscopic gastropexy. Results: The median age of patients included was 4 years (range: 1–6 years). All eight cases of gastric volvulus requiring sugery had congenital spleen diseases. Six of the eight cases suffered from a wandering spleen, while two cases presented with situs inversus with asplenia. Both splenopexy (preperitoneal distension balloon [PDB] or blunt separaion methods) and gastropexy were performed in cases with wandering spleen. No postoperative complications were reported in any of the eight cases, except the recurrence of gastric volvulus due to suture shedding in one case. Conclusion: Laparoscopic gastropexy for gastric volvulus and splenopexy for cases concomitant with wandering spleen were found to be effective surgical approaches. Both PDB and blunt separation methods for making extraperitoneal pockets for the spleen were employed successfully.

Background Esophageal atresia (EA) is often associated with tracheomalacia (TM). The severity of TM symptoms varies widely, with serious cases requiring prolonged respiratory support and surgical treatment. Although we performed thoracoscopic posterior tracheopexy (TPT) during primary EA repair to prevent or reduce the symptoms of TM, few studies have investigated the safety and effectiveness of TPT during primary EA repair. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of TPT in neonates. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients diagnosed with TM who underwent primary thoracoscopic EA repair between 2013 and 2020 at the Nagoya University Hospital. Patients were divided into two groups: TPT (TPT group) and without TPT (control group). TPT has been performed in all patients with EA complicated by TM since 2020. We compared patient backgrounds, surgical outcomes, postoperative complications, and treatment efficacy. Results Of the 22 patients reviewed, eight were in the TPT group and 14 were in the control group. There were no statistically significant differences in the surgical outcomes between the groups (operation time: p = 0.31; blood loss: p = 0.83; time to extubation: p = 0.30; time to start enteral feeding: p = 0.19; time to start oral feeding: p = 0.43). Conversion to open thoracotomy was not performed in any case. The median operative time required for posterior tracheopexy was 10 (8–15) min. There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications between the groups (chylothorax: p = 0.36; leakage: p = 1.00; stricture: p = 0.53). The respiratory dependence rate 30 days postoperative (2 [25%] vs. 11 [79%], p = 0.03) and the ratio of the lateral and anterior–posterior diameter of the trachea (LAR) were significantly lower in the TPT group (1.83 [1.66–2.78] vs. 3.59 [1.80–7.70], p = 0.01). Conclusions TPT during primary EA repair for treatment of TM significantly lowered respiratory dependence rate at 30 days postoperative without increasing the risk of postoperative complications. This study suggested that TPT could improve TM associated with EA.

After surgery for congenital biliary dilatation (CBD), hilar and hepatic bile duct stenosis and intrapancreatic bile duct remnants can cause many postoperative complications. We investigated the efficacy of laparoscopic surgery with aggressive bile ductoplasty and complete excision of the intrapancreatic bile duct in CBD patients compared to open surgery.Pediatric patients who underwent surgery for CBD at our institution between 2006 and 2020 were divided into two groups: laparoscopic surgery (Lap group) and open surgery (Op group). Surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups.We enrolled 160 patients (85 in the Lap group and 75 in the Op group). Hilar bile ductoplasty was performed in 52 (61%) patients from the Lap group and 40 (53%) patients from the Op group. The operative time was significantly longer, the amount of blood loss was significantly lower, and the length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the Lap group than in the Op group. Postoperative early and late complications occurred at a similarly low rate in both groups. When the surgical outcomes were compared between the group who underwent laparoscopic bile ductoplasty and the group that did not, postoperative early and late complications occurred similarly in both groups.Laparoscopic surgery for CBD with aggressive hilar bile ductoplasty and complete excision of the intrapancreatic bile duct is safe and effective, comparable to open surgery. However, it is necessary to verify whether long-term occurrence of hepatolithiasis similar to open definitive surgery can be obtained in the future.

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of circumumbilical incision (CUI) for neonates requiring intestinal anastomosis. Seventy neonates requiring intestinal anastomosis at our institution between 2003 and 2020 were included in this retrospective case-control study. Patients were classified into the CUI (25 patients: 36%) and transverse incision (TI) groups (45 patients: 64%). Postoperative complications and surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups. Intestinal perforation at the non-anastomotic site occurred significantly more often in the CUI group than in the TI group (3 patients: 12%, and 0 patients: 0%, respectively (

Native liver survival after laparoscopic Kasai portoenterostomy (Lap-PE) for biliary atresia (BA) is controversial. We examined whether a jaundice-free native liver survival rate is comparable between conventional Kasai portoenterostomy (Open-PE) and Lap-PE. Then, the impact of the two types of PE on subsequent living-donor liver transplantation (LTx) was addressed in this study. The jaundice-free rate in 1- and 2-year-old patients who underwent Open-PE and Lap-PE from January 2006 to December 2017 was investigated. Additionally, perioperative data (duration from the start of surgery to the completion of hepatectomy and others) of patients aged 2 years or younger who underwent LTx after either Open-PE or Lap-PE from 2006 to 2017 were evaluated. Thirty-one (67%) out of 46 Open-PE patients and 23 (77%) out of 30 Lap-PE patients showed native liver survival with jaundice-free status at 1 year of age (p = 0.384); 29 (63%) out of 46 Open-PE patients and 19 (70%) out of 27 Lap-PE patients showed native liver survival with jaundice-free status at 2 years of age (p = 0.524); there were no significant differences. Additionally, there were 37 LTx cases after PE within 2 years of birth, including 29 Open-PE and 8 Lap-PE cases. The patients in the Lap-PE group had fewer adhesions and significantly shorter durations of surgery up to the completion of the recipient’s hepatectomy and durations of post-LTx hospital stay compared to the Open-PE group. There were no differences in blood loss or duration of stay in intensive care unit between the Lap-PE and Open-PE groups. Jaundice-free native liver survival rate has been comparable between Open-PE and Lap-PE. Lap-PE resulted in fewer adhesions, contributing to better outcomes of subsequent LTx compared to Open-PE.

Thoracoscopic repair can be safely performed in most types of congenital esophageal atresia (EA), including in patients with long gap EA or very low birth weight. Accordingly, we performed single- or multistage thoracoscopic repair for various EA types. We aimed to report our therapeutic strategy for thoracoscopic radical surgery for treating EA and its outcome. Outcomes of radical surgeries for treating congenital EA at our institute from 2013 to 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. Thirty-eight radical surgeries were evaluated: 3 Gross type-A, 1 type-B, 30 type-C, 1 type-D, and 3 type-E. The cervical approach was performed in 5 cases and thoracoscopic esophageal anastomosis in 33, including 26 single-stage (all type-C) and 7 multistage surgeries (3 type-A, 3 type-C, and 1 type-D). There were no cases of thoracotomies or intraoperative thoracoscopic surgery complications. Three cases of minor leakage were conservatively resolved. Three postoperative chylothorax surgeries (9%) and seven balloon dilatations (21%) for anastomotic stenosis were performed. Thoracoscopic radical surgery for treating EA, including single- and multistage procedures, can be performed, except in type-E cases or when the end of the proximal esophagus is located higher than the clavicle.

Purpose: The features of right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernias (RCDHs) are quite different from those of left-sided CDHs (LCDHs). We have summarized the features of RCDHs experienced in our institution. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed the cases of patients with CDH registered at our institution between 2011 and 2020. Defects on each side were compared based on prenatal diagnosis, medical treatment, type of surgery, and outcomes. Results: A total of 101 patients underwent surgery at our institution during the neonatal period, and 11 had RCDHs. RCDHs and LCDHs were significantly different in terms of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (36% vs. 6%, p = 0.002), patch repair (81% vs. 28%, p

Minimally invasive examinations are particularly important in pediatric patients. Although the significance of urinary NUrinary samples were collected from pediatric patients with and without cancer. The urinary DiAcSpm levels were measured, and the values were compared.A total of 32 patients with cancer and 405 controls were enrolled in the study. Of the 32 patients, 13 had neuroblastoma, 9 had malignant lymphoma (ML), and 10 had leukemia. In the control group, the urinary DiAcSpm values markedly fluctuated among those with young age, especially infants; meanwhile, the values converged among those aged roughly 10 years and above. The sensitivity of DiAcSpm was significantly different among the three types of cancers: neuroblastoma (30.8%), ML (77.8%), and leukemia (40%).The urinary DiAcSpm value is a useful TM for both screening and follow-up of ML.

Pediatric surgeons require highly advanced minimally invasive surgical skills to perform rare and complex surgeries in a very vulnerable population. We developed a neonatal esophageal atresia (EA) model to improve thoracoscopic surgical skills. This study aimed to evaluate the concurrent validity of the model by undertaking pre- and post-training skills assessments in two groups of students with no prior experience performing minimally invasive surgery, using the EA model and a dry box (DB).A pilot study was performed. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: one trained using the DB and one trained using the EA model. Both groups practiced a minimally invasive surgical suture task. The task completion time, 29-point checklist score, modified suturing error sheet score, and three-dimensional forceps movement in both groups were compared pre-and post-training by video analysis.The EA model task was significantly more difficult than that of the DB. Both groups showed significant improvement in the task time, 29-point checklist score, and modified suturing error sheet score; however, the EA model training was more efficient in improving each error item. Regarding forceps movement, the EA model training significantly decreased wasted motion, whereas the DB was limited in this regard.Short-term training on the EA model, which was more technically demanding than the DB, decreased technical error and wasted motion, and allowed learners to acquire surgical skills more efficiently than training with the DB model. These facts revealed the concurrent validity of the EA model.

We reviewed the outcomes of meconium peritonitis and evaluated the safety and feasibility of primary radical surgery for meconium peritonitis. A total of 21 cases of meconium peritonitis between 2006 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were classified into two groups based on the type of surgery: group I (primary radical surgery, n = 16) and group II (multistage surgery; drainage only or ileostomy, followed by elective surgery, n = 5). Patient backgrounds and surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups. The term of prenatal diagnosis, preoperative white blood cell count, and preoperative catecholamine use were not significantly different between the two groups. Group I included more mature neonates than group II (gestational age at birth, 35w1d vs 30w1d, p = 0.02; birth weight, 2.5 kg vs 1.1 kg, p0.01). Preoperative C-reactive protein was significantly lower in group I (0.37 mg/dL vs 2.8 mg/dL, p0.05). Operation time, blood loss, time to enteral feeding, and complication rates were not significantly different between the two groups. The surgical outcomes of primary radical surgery were comparable to those of multistage surgery, although the patients' backgrounds were different. Our strategy of selecting one-stage or multiple-stage surgery for treatment of meconium peritonitis, depending on the patient's general condition and degree of intestinal ischemia, was reasonable.

Urine is a complex liquid containing numerous small molecular metabolites. The ability to non-invasively test for cancer biomarkers in urine is especially beneficial for screening child patients. This study attempted to identify neuroblastoma biomarkers by comprehensively analysing urinary metabolite samples from children. A total of 87 urine samples were collected from 54 participants (15 children with neuroblastoma and 39 without cancer) and used to perform a comprehensive analysis. Urine metabolites were extracted using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and analysed by Metabolon, Inc. Biomarker candidates were extracted using the Wilcoxon rank sum test, random forest method (RF), and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA). RF identified three important metabolic pathways in 15 samples from children with neuroblastoma. One metabolite was selected from each of the three identified pathways and combined to create a biomarker candidate (3-MTS, CTN, and COR) that represented each of the three pathways; using this candidate, all 15 cases were accurately distinguishable from the control group. Two cases in which known biomarkers were negative tested positive using this new biomarker. Furthermore, the predictive value did not decrease in cases with a low therapeutic effect. This approach could be effectively applied to identify biomarkers for other cancer types.

Background In cases of Hirschsprung disease, complete and reproducible resection of the aganglionic bowel is ideal to achieve good postoperative bowel function. Reliable identification of the upper margin of the surgical anal canal, which is the squamous-columnar junction, is necessary during transanal pull-through. Here, we describe a novel staining technique using Lugol’s iodine stain to visualize the upper margin of the surgical anal canal. Methods Lugol’s iodine staining was performed in five patients with Hirschsprung disease treated using a single-stage laparoscopic transanal pull-through modified Swenson procedure. In two of these patients, endocytoscopic observation with ultra-high magnification was performed using methylene blue and crystal violet to mark the border of the squamous epithelium at 1 week before surgery. The alignment between the incisional line, which was revealed using Lugol’s iodine staining and endocytoscopic marking, was evaluated. Complications, including postoperative bowel dysfunction, were evaluated. Results In all cases, Lugol’s iodine staining produced a well-demarcated line. The endocytoscopic marking of the upper margin of the surgical anal canal was aligned with the line revealed by Lugol’s iodine staining. There were no complications associated with the transanal pull-through procedure, including postoperative bowel dysfunction. Conclusions Lugol’s iodine staining could be a safe and practical method to visualize the upper margin of the surgical anal canal intraoperatively. This finding may be useful for surgeons to make a consistent removal of the aganglionic bowel during surgery for Hirschsprung disease.

One of the main causes of stricture at hepaticojejunostomy site after surgery for congenital biliary dilatation is inflammation or infection associated with bile leak. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors and outcomes of bile leak after laparoscopic surgery.We retrospectively reviewed the demographics and outcomes of patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for congenital biliary dilatation between September 2013 and December 2019. Data from patients with bile leak were compared to data from patients without bile leak.Fourteen of 78 patients had bile leak. Hepatic duct diameter at anastomosis was the only risk factor of bile leak. Patients with the diameter ≤ 10 mm had higher incidence of bile leak than in patients with the diameter 10 mm (P = 0.0023). Among them, bile leak occurred more frequently in patients operated on by non-qualified surgeons based on the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery endoscopic surgical skill qualification system than by qualified surgeons (P = 0.027). However, none of the patients with bile leak developed anastomotic stricture afterwards.Although good technical skill is necessary to avoid bile leak in narrow hepatic duct cases (≤ 10 mm), slight bile leak may not result in anastomotic stricture.

Purpose: To investigate late complications after surgery for congenital biliary dilatation (CBD). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the patients treated for late postoperative complications of extrahepatic bile duct resection with bilioenteric anastomosis for CBD at our hospital between 1999 and 2019. Results: Twenty-seven complications, including bile duct stenosis with (n = 19) or without (n = 3) hepatolithiasis, remnant intrapancreatic bile duct (n = 2), intestinal obstruction (n = 2), and refractory cholangitis (n = 1) were treated in 26 patients. The median age at radical surgery and the initial treatment of complications was 3 years, 2 months and 14 years, 5 months, respectively. The median period from radical surgery to initial treatment of complications was 7 years, 1 month. Before 2013, bile duct stenosis was initially treated with bile duct plasty (n = 11) or hepatectomy (n = 3), and 71.4% (n = 10) of patients needed further treatment; after 2013, double-balloon endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (DBERC) was used (n = 8), and 25% (n = 2) of patients needed further treatment. Patients with remnant intrapancreatic bile duct, intestinal obstruction, and refractory cholangitis required surgery. Conclusion: Long-term follow-up is necessary after surgery for congenital biliary dilatation. DBERC is thus considered to be useful for bile duct stenosis management.

Aims/Introduction Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT‐2) inhibitors improve blood glucose control, as well as reducing bodyweight by promoting urinary glucose excretion. The weight loss is less than expected from urinary glucose loss, however, likely because of an increase in food intake. To investigate whether SGLT‐2 inhibitors might increase appetite by affecting related hormones, we examined the effects of the SGLT‐2 inhibitor, ipragliflozin, including those on appetite‐regulating hormones, in individuals with suboptimally controlled type 2 diabetes. Materials and Methods The present prospective, multicenter, open‐label study was carried out with 96 patients with a body mass index of ≥22 kg/m2 who were treated with ipragliflozin (50 mg/day) for 16 weeks. Parameters including glycated hemoglobin level, bodyweight, circulating leptin and active ghrelin concentrations, and appetite as assessed with a visual analog scale were measured before and during treatment. Results Both glycated hemoglobin level (from 7.9 ± 0.8 to 7.1 ± 0.7%) and bodyweight (from 75.2 ± 12.6 to 72.6 ± 12.4 kg) were significantly decreased after treatment for 16 weeks. The fasting serum leptin level was significantly decreased after 2 weeks (from 19.5 ± 13.1 to 18.1 ± 12.4 ng/mL) and remained decreased up to 16 weeks, even after adjustment for bodyweight, whereas the plasma active ghrelin level showed no significant change. The visual analog scale score for hunger was significantly increased at 2 and 8 weeks. Conclusions The present results suggest that ipragliflozin improved glycemic control and reduced bodyweight, but also reduced serum leptin levels and might thereby have increased appetite.

Introduction Administered basal insulin markedly influences the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) level of individuals with type 1 diabetes. Insulin degludec (IDeg) and insulin glargine U300 (IGlar U300) are now available as ultra-long-acting insulin formulations, but whether or how their glucose-stabilizing effects differ remains unclear. We will compare the effects of these basal insulins on parameters related to blood glucose control, with a focus on day-to-day glycemic variability, in individuals with type 1 diabetes treated with multiple daily injections. Methods A multicenter, randomized, open-label, crossover, comparative study (Kobe Best Basal Insulin Study 2) will be performed at 13 participating institutions in Japan. A total of 46 C-peptide-negative adult outpatients with type 1 diabetes will be randomly assigned 1:1 by a centralized allocation process to IGlar U300 (first period)/IDeg (second period) or IDeg (first period)/IGlar U300 (second period) groups, in which subjects will be treated with the corresponding basal insulin for consecutive 4-week periods. The basal insulin will be titrated to achieve an FPG of less than 130 mg/dL initially and then less than 110 mg/dL if feasible. In the last week of each period, plasma glucose will be determined seven times a day by self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and intraday and day-to-day glucose excursions will be determined by flash glucose monitoring (FGM). The primary end point is comparison of day-to-day glycemic variability as evaluated by the standard deviation (SD) of FPG during the last week of each treatment period. Secondary end points include the coefficient of variance of FPG, the frequency of severe hypoglycemia as evaluated by SMBG, the duration of hypoglycemia as evaluated by FGM, intraday glycemic variability calculated from both SMBG and FGM data, and the administered insulin dose. Planned Outcomes The results of the study will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal to report differences in the effects of two ultra-long-acting basal insulins, IDeg and IGlar U300. Conclusion This head-to-head comparison will be the first study to compare the effects of IDeg and IGlar U300 on day-to-day FPG variability in C-peptide-negative individuals with type 1 diabetes. Trial Registration Registered in University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Clinical Trials Registry as 000029630 on 20 June 2017. Funding Novo Nordisk Pharma Ltd.

Purpose: The Soave procedure (SO) is performed most commonly for Hirschsprung disease. SO reduces the risk of injury to the pelvic structures; however, a residual aganglionic muscle cuff could interfere with bowel movement and lead to obstructive enterocolitis. The Swenson procedure is considered ideal in terms of peristalsis. Currently, laparoscopic surgery provides better visualization and facilitates precise dissection, possibly leading to feasible performance of the laparoscopic modified Swenson procedure (SW). We present our operative technique and the efficacy of the SW compared with that of SO. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 16 and 27 patients who underwent SW and SO, respectively, between 2012 and 2017. Results: Operative time, blood loss, length of stay, and frequency of bowel movements showed no significant difference between the two groups. In the SW group, temporary dysuria occurred in one patient, postoperative enterocolitis in two, wound infection in one, and severe perianal excoriation in four, whereas in the SO group, obstructive symptoms occurred in three patients, small-bowel obstruction in one, and severe perianal excoriation in three. The complications and outcomes were comparable between both groups. Conclusion: Laparoscopic SW was safe and feasible for the short-term follow-up outcomes., ファイル公開：2019/10/01

Laparoscopic definitive surgery for choledochal cyst (CC) in infants requires advanced skills because of their small size. If patients with a prenatal diagnosis of CC have any biliary symptoms, they need semi-emergency definitive surgery. This study aimed to estimate whether laparoscopic definitive surgery for CC can be performed safely and effectively in infants, especially when emergency surgery is required.From January 2006 to December 2019, 21 patients under 1 year of age underwent laparoscopically or open definitive surgery, and 16 patients aged 3-5 years underwent laparoscopic surgery for CC at our institution. In cases of prenatal diagnosis, elective surgery (EL) was performed at about 6 months of age for patients with no biliary symptoms; the semi-emergency surgery (EM) was performed when patients had any biliary symptoms. Surgical outcomes were retrospectively compared between the Lap1 y and Op1 y groups and between the Lap1 y and Lap 3-5 y groups. In addition, the surgical outcomes of those who underwent EM were also evaluated.Operative time was significantly longer, and blood loss was significantly lower in the Lap1 y group than in the Op1 y group. All surgical outcomes were similar between the Lap1 y and Lap 3-5 y groups and between the EM and EL groups.Laparoscopic definitive surgery for CC in infants under 1 year of age is safe and feasible. Even semi-emergency laparoscopic surgery can be performed safely and effectively in small infants.

Background The role of local radiotherapy in the treatment of metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma is important. However, with peritoneal dissemination, the application of local therapy is challenging. Although there are few reports addressing the efficacy of the whole abdominopelvic irradiation to peritoneal disseminated rhabdomyosarcoma patients, no precise curse of treatment nor the follow up result is explained in paper nor in the text. Case presentation Six years old rhabdomyosarcoma boy with peritoneal dissemination was treated at our facility under COG D9803 protocol (vincristine, dactinomycin, and cyclophosphamide (VAC)). He underwent tumor resection on the 14th week according to the protocol. During surgery, the 2-cm residual tumor was completely resected, but in the pelvis, numerous nodules that were suspected as peritoneal disseminated tumors were observed. We administered 30 Gy/20fr whole abdominopelvic radiotherapy using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique and a 6 Gy sequential boost to pelvis after the surgery and completed the protocol treatment. During the course of treatment, the patient experienced G4 hematological toxicity and received multiple transfusions, particularly after whole abdominopelvic irradiation. He has achieved complete remission and is alive without evidence of recurrence and severe late adverse effect for 3 years. In terms of growth, his height and weight are within the average values for Japanese boys at the same age. Conclusion By using the VMAT technique, a patient with peritoneal disseminated rhabdomyosarcoma can be treated, and a dose of 30 Gy to the whole abdominopelvis with concurrent chemotherapy may be tolerable.

Background and Aim: Urine contains numerous small molecular metabolites that can be used as reliable, non-invasive cancer biomarkers. The aim of this study was to identify biomarkers for bile duct cancer by comprehensively analyzing urinary metabolites from patients with bile duct cancer. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out on urine samples collected before and after tumor resection in 13 patients with bile duct cancer. Urine metabolites were extracted using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Biomarker candidates were identified using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, random forest method, and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis. Results: We developed an AI technology that efficiently searched for urine tumor markers based on the detailed medical information of each urine sample and used them to construct cancer test models. About 1500 metabolites, such as amino acids, nucleic acids, and lipids, were detected in one urine sample. Ten urine tumor marker candidates for bile duct cancer were identified. Conclusions: We identified novel urine tumor marker candidates for bile duct cancer. We are currently investigating additional urine samples from 23 patients with bile duct cancer. The possibility of detecting and monitoring bile duct cancer using urine tumor markers has been examined. Citation Format: Hizuru Amano, Akinari Hinoki, Hiroo Uchida, Kazuki Yokota, Takashi Ishigaki, Minoru Sakairi, Mayumi Abe, Yasushi Terui, Hirohisa Oda, Takahisa Tainaka, Chiyoe Shirota, Wataru Sumida, satoshi Makita, Aitaro Takimoto, Masamune Okamoto, Akihiro Yasui, Yoichi Nakagawa. Development of a novel diagnostic system for bile duct cancer using urinary metabolites [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 2345.

e22008 Background: Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor in children. Its heterogeneity may account for the non-uniform response to therapy; thus, accurate predictive biomarkers are required. We focused on urinary biomarkers since urine contains numerous low molecular weight metabolites that can be used as reliable and non-invasive biomarkers. We detected more than 2,000 metabolites by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) through a comprehensive analysis of metabolites in urine samples of patients with neuroblastoma and identified potential urinary biomarker candidates using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test and random forest. In this study, the levels of urinary biomarker candidates were compared between the responder and resistant groups to identify urinary biomarkers for monitoring treatment response. Furthermore, their effectiveness was compared with minimal residual disease (MRD) markers, which are currently considered to predict tumor relapse. Methods: Thirty-two patients with neuroblastoma were divided into two groups according to their responsiveness to therapy: the responder group, in which patients had no recurrence (60 urine samples from 24 patients) and the resistant group in which patients had a recurrence or died (18 urine samples from 8 patients). Levels of urinary metabolites (homovanillic acid [HVA], vanillylmandelic acid [VMA], 3-methoxytyramine sulfate [3-MTS], vanillactic acid [VLA], 3-methoxytyrosine [3-MTR]), and MRD markers (TH, PHOX2B, MK) were compared between the two groups during treatment. Results: The levels of five urinary metabolites (HVA, VMA, VLA, 3-MTR, 3-MTS) were significantly increased in the resistant group compared to that in the responder group. Conclusions: This study shows that three novel urinary metabolites (VLA, 3-MTR, 3-MTS) are significantly associated with the recurrence or death from neuroblastoma.

Background: The treatment of long-gap esophageal atresia remains an issue for pediatric surgeons. Many techniques for treating long-gap esophageal atresia have been proposed, but the optimal method has not been established. The thoracoscopic esophageal elongation technique has recently been developed. We previously reported a case in which two-stage thoracoscopic repair was performed using internal esophageal traction without esophageal tearing, and we retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of this procedure in this study. Methods: Five patients underwent thoracoscopic treatment involving internal esophageal traction for esophageal atresia involving a long gap or vascular ring over a 5-year period. Results: Between November 2010 and November 2015, 5 patients were treated with thoracoscopic traction. All of these patients successfully underwent thoracoscopic-delayed primary anastomosis. Conversion to open thoracotomy was not required in any case. The postoperative complications experienced by the patients included minor anastomotic leakage in 2 cases, anastomotic stenosis in 1 case, gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in 4 cases, and a hiatal hernia in 1 case. None of the patients died. Conclusions: Two-stage thoracoscopic repair for esophageal atresia involving a long gap or vascular ring is a safe and feasible procedure; however, we must develop methods for treating minor anastomotic complications and GER due to esophageal traction in future.

Background The indications for and efficacy of revision of portoenterostomy (PE) for biliary atresia (BA) needs to be reassessed in an era of liver transplantation. We therefore reviewed the long-term outcomes following revision of PE. Methods This was a retrospective study of the medical records of patients with BA who underwent PE and revision of PE. We investigated the role of revision on outcomes of jaundice-free native liver survival (approval number: 2015–0094). Results Portoenterostomy was performed in 76 patients, among whom 22 underwent revision. Revision for recurrent jaundice was performed for four of 51 patients, who were transiently jaundice free after initial PE, but only one achieved native liver survival. Revision for repeated cholangitis in two patients achieved native liver survival over 10 years. Revision was performed in 16 of the 25 patients in whom initial PE failed; of these, four survived with their native liver (ages 3, 12, 12, and 14 years). The PE revision did not significantly affect liver transplantation duration and survival outcome. Conclusions Revision of PE was suitable for repeated cholangitis. Revision for recurrent jaundice, regardless of whether the initial PE was successful, could have a limited but positive effect in preventing long-term progressive liver failure.

Currently, surgical staples are composed of non–biodegradable titanium (Ti) that can cause allergic reactions and interfere with imaging. This paper proposes a novel biodegradable magnesium (Mg) alloy staple and discusses analyses conducted to evaluate its safety and feasibility. Specifically, finite element analysis revealed that the proposed staple has a suitable stress distribution while stapling and maintaining closure. Further, an immersion test using artificial intestinal juice produced satisfactory biodegradable behavior, mechanical durability, and biocompatibility in vitro. Hydrogen resulting from rapid corrosion of Mg was observed in small quantities only in the first week of immersion, and most staples maintained their shapes until at least the fourth week. Further, the tensile force was maintained for more than a week and was reduced to approximately one-half by the fourth week. In addition, the Mg concentration of the intestinal artificial juice was at a low cytotoxic level. In porcine intestinal anastomoses, the Mg alloy staples caused neither technical failure nor such complications as anastomotic leakage, hematoma, or adhesion. No necrosis or serious inflammation reaction was histopathologically recognized. Thus, the proposed Mg alloy staple offers a promising alternative to Ti alloy staples.

Purpose: Biliary atresia (BA) is characterized by progressive inflammation of the biliary system. This inflammation persists and causes liver fibrosis, although jaundice disappears after Kasai portoenterostomy (KP). We aimed to confirm whether the oral administration of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) suppresses liver fibrosis in postoperative patients with BA. Methods: We reviewed patients who underwent laparoscopic KP (lapKP) between January 2014 and September 2017. From December 2016, 30 mg/kg/day of EPA was orally administered to patients who opted to take medicine (EPA group). Patients who did not receive EPA were assigned to the non-EPA group. Mac-2 binding protein sugar chain modified isomer (M2BPGi) and hyaluronic acid (HA) levels were compared between the two groups in patients showing disappearance of jaundice at 6 months after the first lapKP. Results: Seventeen patients in the non-EPA group and 11 in the EPA group were enrolled. At 6 months after the first lapKP, 10 patients in the non-EPA group and six in the EPA group were without jaundice. M2BPGi and HA levels were significantly lower in the EPA group. Conclusions: Liver fibrosis was suppressed in patients without jaundice 6 months after lapKP, who were administered EPA. We believe that periductular inflammation was alleviated by EPA supplementation., ファイル公開：2019/10/01

Aim To present the technique and the diagnostic accuracy of the air test to diagnose Hirschsprung's disease (HD). Materials and methods Children who attended hospital for chronic constipation (CC) between January 2012 and December 2016 for whom the air test was performed were enrolled. The test was conducted during contrast enema under fluoroscopic observation using 20–50 ml injections of air into the rectum through a 10 F Nelaton catheter. The demographics, results of the air test, and additional examinations, as well as the outcomes of subsequent treatments were analysed retrospectively. Results The air test was conducted in 179 patients (median: 3 years, range: 0–14 years), and was positive in 150 and negative in 29 cases. Of the 29 patients with negative results, four were diagnosed with HD by rectal suction biopsy (RSB). Of the remaining 25 patients, RSB was conducted in seven and HD was excluded in all cases. In all 150 patients with positive air test results, CC was adequately controlled with conservative treatment. The sensitivity and specificity of the air test were 100% (4/4) and 85.7% (150/175), respectively. Conclusions The air test can be used as a new non-invasive screening method for HD, performed simultaneously with contrast enema.

Purpose.Kasai portoenterostomy is the standard therapy for biliary atresia (BA). If Kasai is unsuccessful, there is controversy over whether revision of Kasai restores adequate biliary drainage. Although there are several reports of laparoscopic Kasai (Lap-Kasai), none has described laparoscopic revision (Lap-revision). The purposes of this study were to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of Lap-revision.Methods.65 patients underwent open Kasai between November 2001 and November 2013, and 12 patients underwent Lap-Kasai between December 2013 to January 2015. The indications for revision included bile flow cessation and recurrent cholangitis. Clinical data were compared between open and laparoscopic revisions of Kasai.Results.Open revision of Kasai was performed in 20 patients after open Kasai, and Lap-revision was performed in 4 patients after Lap-Kasai. Lap-revision was completed without conversion or major complication in any patient. The bilirubin level was normalized by Lap-revision in all four patients, and three of them were alive with their native liver. Open and laparoscopic revisions of Kasai were comparable in terms of the operation time, blood loss, and surgical outcomes.Conclusion.Lap-revision is a feasible and effective method for the treatment of BA and might herald a new era for the treatment of this disease.

Background Postoperative chylothorax after surgery for esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a rare but serious complication, especially in neonates. This study aimed to identify the thoracic duct and ligate chylous leakage sites, using thoracoscopic navigation of an indocyanine-green (ICG)-based near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging system. Methods From November 2014 to April 2017, thoracoscopic intraoperative ICG-NIR imaging was performed in 10 newborns (11 surgeries) with first TEF operation or with persistent postoperative chylothorax after TEF operation. NIR imaging was performed 1 h after an inter-toe injection of ICG. Thoracoscopic ligations against the NIR-detected leakage sites were performed with sutures. Results The thoracic duct or lymphatic leakage was directly visualized in each patient. In 8 surgeries with first thoracoscopic TEF operation, one case had suspected minor chylous leakage without postoperative chylothorax. Another case with no chylous leakage at the first operation resulted in chylothorax at postoperative day 11. In three neonates with postoperative chylothorax, leakage points were detected near the ablation site of the azygos vein during the first operation. These points were properly ligated, and postoperative chylous leakage ceased with no adverse events. Conclusions Thoracoscopic ICG-NIR imaging encourages the repair of refractory chylothorax and seems reliable. Level of Evidence IV

Purpose: Experimental models of laparoscopic surgery generally use large animals owing to a sufficient abdominal working space. We developed a novel laparoscopic surgery model in rats. We performed intestinal anastomosis to demonstrate the feasibility and reliability of this model. Materials and Methods: We designed a device for rats that expanded the abdominal working space and allowed us to manipulate the intraperitoneal organs by hand under direct vision with pneumoperitoneum. We performed small bowel resection and intestinal anastomosis in rats using this model. To elucidate the effects of pneumoperitoneum and skin incision length, rats were randomly divided into four groups with differing surgical techniques: small incision group, large incision group, small incision + pneumoperitoneum group, and large incision + pneumoperitoneum group. Intraoperative abdominal pressure and postoperative cytokines were measured. Results: One experimenter completed small bowel resection and hand-sewn anastomosis under direct vision without any difficulties or assistance. Carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum was maintained at 8–10 mmHg during surgery in both pneumoperitoneum groups. Necropsies revealed no evidence of anastomotic leakage at 24 h after surgery. The interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein concentrations were significantly greater in large incision group than in small incision group, but were not significantly different between small incision + pneumoperitoneum group and small incision group. These cytokines concentrations were the greatest in large incision + pneumoperitoneum group. Conclusions: Our laparoscopic surgery model in rats is a simple and reliable experimental model. The length of skin incision might be a more influential determinant of surgical invasiveness than pneumoperitoneum., Published online: 27 Sep 2017

We report a case of a 6-year-old female with acute gastric volvulus with total gastric necrosis and ischemia of the surrounding organs. Congestion necrosis occurs because of strangulation. It is considered that this case was caused by elevated intragastric pressure with marked stomach dilation. Thus, rapid decompression was essential. Keywords: Acute gastric volvulus, Total gastric necrosis, Ischemia of surrounding organs, Acute gastric dilatation

Hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome (HIES) is sporadically triggered by de novo genetic mutations of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). Dialysis patients frequently exhibit HIES-like symptoms including elevated IgE levels and recurrent bacterial infections. We herein report the case of a 74-year-old man on hemodialysis (HD) who developed marked IgE elevation and multiple subcutaneous cold Staphylococcus aureus abscesses. We are the first to report that a dialysis patient presented with HIES-like symptoms without the characteristic facies or bone and connective tissue abnormalities. A STAT3 gene analysis was conducted as part of the differential diagnosis.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous steroid pulse therapy following balloon dilatation for esophageal stenosis and stricture in children. Methods: The study enrolled six children, including three with congenital esophageal stenosis and three with anastomotic strictures after surgery for esophageal atresia, all of whom were treated by balloon dilatation combined with high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone pulse therapy. Methylprednisolone was injected intravenously at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day for 2 days, starting from the day of dilatation, followed by 10 mg/kg/day for 2 days, for a total of 4 days. Results: Esophageal stricture recurred in all three patients with congenital esophageal stenosis despite repeated balloon dilatation without methylprednisolone. However, the symptoms of dysphagia improved and did not recur after systemic steroid pulse therapy following balloon dilatation. Symptoms also resolved in all three patients with anastomotic strictures following balloon dilatation with systemic steroid pulse therapy. All six patients remained asymptomatic after 6–21 months follow-up, with no complications. Conclusion: Intravenous methylprednisolone pulse therapy following balloon dilatation is safe and effective for the treatment of esophageal stenosis and strictures in children.

The indications for and efficacy of revision of portoenterostomy (PE) for biliary atresia (BA) needs to be reassessed in an era of liver transplantation. We therefore reviewed the long-term outcomes following revision of PE.This was a retrospective study of the medical records of patients with BA who underwent PE and revision of PE. We investigated the role of revision on outcomes of jaundice-free native liver survival (approval number: 2015-0094).Portoenterostomy was performed in 76 patients, among whom 22 underwent revision. Revision for recurrent jaundice was performed for four of 51 patients, who were transiently jaundice free after initial PE, but only one achieved native liver survival. Revision for repeated cholangitis in two patients achieved native liver survival over 10 years. Revision was performed in 16 of the 25 patients in whom initial PE failed; of these, four survived with their native liver (ages 3, 12, 12, and 14 years). The PE revision did not significantly affect liver transplantation duration and survival outcome.Revision of PE was suitable for repeated cholangitis. Revision for recurrent jaundice, regardless of whether the initial PE was successful, could have a limited but positive effect in preventing long-term progressive liver failure.