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Background The spread of the SARS-CoV2 virus, which causes COVID-19 disease, profoundly impacted the surgical community. Recommendations have been published to manage patients needing surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. This survey, under the aegis of the Italian Society of Endoscopic Surgery, aims to analyze how Italian surgeons have changed their practice during the pandemic. Methods The authors designed an online survey that was circulated for completion to the Italian departments of general surgery registered in the Italian Ministry of Health database in December 2020. Questions were divided into three sections: hospital organization, screening policies, and safety profile of the surgical operation. The investigation periods were divided into the Italian pandemic phases I (March–May 2020), II (June–September 2020), and III (October–December 2020). Results Of 447 invited departments, 226 answered the survey. Most hospitals were treating both COVID-19-positive and -negative patients. The reduction in effective beds dedicated to surgical activity was significant, affecting 59% of the responding units. 12.4% of the respondents in phase I, 2.6% in phase II, and 7.7% in phase III reported that their surgical unit had been closed. 51.4%, 23.5%, and 47.8% of the respondents had at least one colleague reassigned to non-surgical COVID-19 activities during the three phases. There has been a reduction in elective (> 200 procedures: 2.1%, 20.6% and 9.9% in the three phases, respectively) and emergency ( Conclusion This survey offers three faithful snapshots of how the surgical community has reacted to the COVID-19 pandemic during its three phases. The significant reduction in surgical activity indicates that better health policies and more evidence-based guidelines are needed to make up for lost time and surgery not performed during the pandemic.

Donor-recipient match is a matter of debate in liver transplantation. D-MELD (donor age × recipient biochemical model for end-stage liver disease [MELD]) and other factors were analyzed on a national Italian database recording 5946 liver transplants. Primary endpoint was to determine factors predictive of 3-year patient survival. D-MELD cutoff predictive of 5-year patient survival 1628). At 3 years, the odds ratio (OR) for death was 2.03 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.44-2.85) in D-MELD class C versus B. The OR was 0.40 (95% CI, 0.24-0.66) in class A versus class B. Other predictors were hepatitis C virus (HCV; OR = 1.42; 95% CI, 1.11-1.81), hepatitis B virus (HBV; OR = 0.69; 95% CI, 0.51-0.93), retransplant (OR = 1.82; 95% CI, 1.16-2.87) and low-volume center (OR = 1.48; 95% CI, 1.11-1.99). Cox regressions up to 90 months confirmed results. The hazard ratio was 1.97 (95% CI, 1.59-2.43) for D-MELD class C versus class B and 0.42 (95% CI, 0.29-0.60) for D-MELD class A versus class B. Recipient age, HCV, HBV and retransplant were also significant. The 5yrsPS

Background The recurrence of hepatitis C viral infection is common after liver transplant, and achieving a sustained virological response to antiviral treatment is desirable for reducing the risk of graft loss and improving patients’ survival. Aim To investigate the long-term maintenance of sustained virological response in liver transplant recipients with hepatitis C recurrence. Methods 436 Liver transplant recipients (74.1% genotype 1) who underwent combined antiviral therapy for hepatitis C recurrence were retrospectively evaluated. Results The overall sustained virological response rate was 40% (173/436 patients), and the mean follow-up after liver transplantation was 11 ± 3.5 years (range, 5–24). Patients with a sustained virological response demonstrated a 5-year survival rate of 97% and a 10-year survival rate of 93%; all but 6 (3%) patients remained hepatitis C virus RNA-negative during follow-up. Genotype non-1 (p = 0.007), treatment duration >80% of the scheduled period (p = 0.027), and early virological response (p = 0.002), were associated with the maintenance of sustained virological response as indicated by univariate analysis. Early virological response was the only independent predictor of sustained virological response maintenance (p = 0.008). Conclusions Sustained virological response achieved after combined antiviral treatment is maintained in liver transplant patients with recurrent hepatitis C and is associated with an excellent 5-year survival.

It has been recently suggested that the risk of graft loss after liver transplantation (LT) may increase in female HCV patients. The aim of the study was to examine gender differences in HCV therapy tolerance and outcome in LT patients treated for HCV recurrence. A retrospective study was conducted on liver recipients with HCV recurrence, who were given antiviral therapy from 2001 to 2009 in 12 transplant centers in Italy. Sustained virological response (SVR), adherence-to-therapy, and side effects were evaluated. A multivariate logistic regression model was used after adjusting for possible confounders. The data regarding 342 treated patients were analyzed. SVR was reported in 38.8% of patients. At baseline, male and female did not differ in HCV viral load, histology, or rate of diabetes. SVR was lower in females than in males (29.5% vs. 42.1%; P=0.03). Adherence-to-therapy was also lower in females than in males 43.4% vs. 23.8%; P=0.001); anemia was the main reason for lower adherence. In a multivariate analysis in patients Genotype1, female gender (P

Radical resection is the only potential cure for pancreatic malignancies and a useful treatment for other benign diseases, such as pancreatitis. Over the last two decades, medical and surgical improvements have drastically changed the postoperative outcome of elderly patients undergoing pancreatic resection, and appropriate treatment for elderly potential candidates for pancreatic resection has become an important issue.A hundred and five consecutive patients undergoing radical pancreatic resection between 2003 and 2007 at the Surgery Unit of the University of Modena, Italy, were considered and divided into two groups according to their age, i.e., over 75-year olds (group 1, 25 patients) and under 75-year-olds (group 2, 80 patients). The two groups were compared as regards to demographic features, American Society of Anesthesiologists scores, comorbidities, previous major surgery, surgical procedure, postoperative mortality, and morbidity.There were no significant differences between the two groups concerning postoperative mortality, and the duration of hospital stay and days in the postoperative Intensive Care Unit were also similar. Complications such as pancreatic fistulas, wound infections, and pneumonia were more frequent in the older group, but the differences were not statistically significant.In the light of these findings and as reported for other series, old age is probably not directly related with any increase in the rate of postoperative complications, but comorbidities (which are naturally related to the patients' previous life) may have a key role in the postoperative course.

Background: Patients undergoing liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma within the Milan criteria (single tumour ≤5 cm in size or ≤3 tumours each ≤3 cm in size, and no macrovascular invasion) have an excellent outcome. However, survival for patients with cancers that exceed these criteria remains unpredictable and access to transplantation is a balance of maximising patients' chances of cure and organ availability. The aim of this study was to explore the survival of patients with tumours that exceed the Milan criteria, to assess whether the criteria could be less restrictive, enabling more patients to qualify as transplant candidates, and to derive a prognostic model based on objective tumour characteristics, to see whether the Milan criteria could be expanded. Methods: Data on patients who underwent transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma despite exceeding Milan criteria at different centres were recorded via a web-based survey completed by specialists from each centre. The survival of these patients was correlated retrospectively with the size of the largest tumour nodule, number of nodules, and presence or absence of microvascular invasion detected at pathology. Contoured multivariable regression Cox models produced survival estimates by means of different combinations of the covariates. The primary aim of this study was to derive a prognostic model of overall survival based on tumour characteristics, according to the main parameters used in the Tumour Node Metastasis classification. The secondary aim was the identification of a subgroup of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma exceeding the Milan criteria, who achieved a 5-year overall survival of at least 70%-ie, similar to the outcome expected for patients who meet the Milan criteria. Findings: Over a 10-month period, between June 25, 2006, and April 3, 2007, data for 1556 patients who underwent transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma were entered on the database by 36 centres. 1112 patients had hepatocellular carcinoma exceeding Milan criteria and 444 patients had hepatocellular carcinoma shown not to exceed Milan criteria at post-transplant pathology review. In the group of patients with hepatocellular carcinomas exceeding the criteria, the median size of the largest nodule was 40 mm (range 4-200) and the median number of nodules was four (1-20). 454 of 1112 patients (41%) had microvascular invasion and, for those transplanted outside the Milan criteria, 5-year overall survival was 53·6% (95% CI 50·1-57·0), compared with 73·3% (68·2-77·7) for those that met the criteria. Hazard ratios (HR) associated with increasing values of size and number were 1·34 (1·25-1·44) and 1·51 (1·21-1·88), respectively. The effect was linear for size, whereas for number of tumours, the effect tended to plateau above three tumours. The effect of tumour size and number on survival was mediated by recurrence (b=0·08, SE=0·12, p=0·476). The presence of microvascular invasion doubled HRs in all scenarios. The 283 patients without microvascular invasion, but who fell within the Up-to-seven criteria (hepatocellular carcinomas with seven as the sum of the size of the largest tumour [in cm] and the number of tumours) achieved a 5-year overall survival of 71·2% (64·3-77·0). Interpretation: More patients with hepatocellular carcinoma could be candidates for transplantation if the current dual (yes/no) approach to candidacy, based on the strict Milan criteria, were replaced with a more precise estimation of survival contouring individual tumour characteristics and use of the up-to-seven criteria. Funding: Specific funding was not used to do this study. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved

There are no literature data on surgical problems that can be encountered during harvesting of grafts from elderly donors. The aim of our study was to report our experience during liver harvesting from donors over 70 years old and during transplantations of these grafts.

The treatment of relapsing hydatidosis must aim at the reduction of both morbidity and mortality rates and the risk of new recurrences.

Induction with rabbit antithymocyte globulin (RATG) has been reported to be effective in cadaveric liver transplantation. The aim of this study was to compare two immunosuppressive protocols in adult living-related liver transplantation (LRLT).From May 2001 through May 2003, 34 LRLT were performed. The first 17 patients (group 1) were treated with tacrolimus (TAC) and steroids. The next 17 patients (group 2) were treated with a steroid-sparing protocol using RATG.The one-year patient and graft survival was respectively 76.5% and 64.7% for group 1 and 88.2 and 76.5% for group 2 (p = 0.037 and p = NS, respectively). Incidence of acute cellular rejection was 41.2% in group 1 compared to 47% in group 2 (p = NS). Mean daily TAC dose at 6 months was 6.5 +/- 1.1 mg/day in group 1 and 3.2 +/- 0.9 mg/day in group 2 (p0.001). In group 1, 41.1% experienced CMV infection compared to 11.7% in group 2 (p = NS).These results suggest that this approach of RATG induction followed by postoperative, steroid-free, and low-dose TAC is safe and provides for adequate immunosuppression and similar outcome when compared to controls treated with standard TAC and steroid immunosuppression.

Key Points Question Can the individual risk estimation for early allograft failure (EAF) be improved in view of liver retransplant? Findings In this multicenter cohort study investigating the association between donor-recipient factors and EAF, a novel Early Allograft Failure Simplified Estimation (EASE) score was developed. The score includes Model for End-stage Liver Disease score, transfused packed red blood cells, and hepatic vessel early thrombosis as well as transaminases, platelet, and bilirubin kinetics as variables on day 10 after transplant. The EASE score outperformed previous model scores, estimating EAF risk with 87% accuracy on day 90 after transplant; EASE was developed on a multicenter Italian database (1609 recipients) and validated on an external UK database (538 recipients). Meaning In this study, the EASE score rated the EAF risk (0%-100%) and identified cases at unsustainable risk to be listed for retransplant., Importance Expansion of donor acceptance criteria for liver transplant increased the risk for early allograft failure (EAF), and although EAF prediction is pivotal to optimize transplant outcomes, there is no consensus on specific EAF indicators or timing to evaluate EAF. Recently, the Liver Graft Assessment Following Transplantation (L-GrAFT) algorithm, based on aspartate transaminase, bilirubin, platelet, and international normalized ratio kinetics, was developed from a single-center database gathered from 2002 to 2015. Objective To develop and validate a simplified comprehensive model estimating at day 10 after liver transplant the EAF risk at day 90 (the Early Allograft Failure Simplified Estimation [EASE] score) and, secondarily, to identify early those patients with unsustainable EAF risk who are suitable for retransplant. Design, Setting, and Participants This multicenter cohort study was designed to develop a score capturing a continuum from normal graft function to nonfunction after transplant. Both parenchymal and vascular factors, which provide an indication to list for retransplant, were included among the EAF determinants. The L-GrAFT kinetic approach was adopted and modified with fewer data entries and novel variables. The population included 1609 patients in Italy for the derivation set and 538 patients in the UK for the validation set; all were patients who underwent transplant in 2016 and 2017. Main Outcomes and Measures Early allograft failure was defined as graft failure (codified by retransplant or death) for any reason within 90 days after transplant. Results At day 90 after transplant, the incidence of EAF was 110 of 1609 patients (6.8%) in the derivation set and 41 of 538 patients (7.6%) in the external validation set. Median (interquartile range) ages were 57 (51-62) years in the derivation data set and 56 (49-62) years in the validation data set. The EASE score was developed through 17 entries derived from 8 variables, including the Model for End-stage Liver Disease score, blood transfusion, early thrombosis of hepatic vessels, and kinetic parameters of transaminases, platelet count, and bilirubin. Donor parameters (age, donation after cardiac death, and machine perfusion) were not associated with EAF risk. Results were adjusted for transplant center volume. In receiver operating characteristic curve analyses, the EASE score outperformed L-GrAFT, Model for Early Allograft Function, Early Allograft Dysfunction, Eurotransplant Donor Risk Index, donor age × Model for End-stage Liver Disease, and Donor Risk Index scores, estimating day 90 EAF in 87% (95% CI, 83%-91%) of cases in both the derivation data set and the internal validation data set. Patients could be stratified in 5 classes, with those in the highest class exhibiting unsustainable EAF risk. Conclusions and Relevance This study found that the developed EASE score reliably estimated EAF risk. Knowledge of contributing factors may help clinicians to mitigate risk factors and guide them through the challenging clinical decision to allocate patients to early liver retransplant. The EASE score may be used in translational research across transplant centers., This multicenter cohort study develops and validates a simplified comprehensive model that estimates on day 10 after liver transplant the risk of early allograft failure with 90 days among patients who undergo liver transplant.

Background Laparoscopic resection of posterosuperior (PS) segments of the liver is hindered by limited visualization and curvilinear resection planes. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes after open and laparoscopic liver resections of PS segments. Methods Patients who underwent minor open liver resection (OLR) and laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) between 2006 and 2014 were identified from the institutional databases of seven tertiary referral European hepatobiliary surgical units. Propensity score-matched analysis was used to match groups for known confounders. Perioperative outcomes including complications were assessed using the Dindo–Clavien classification, and the comprehensive complication index was calculated. Survival was analysed with the Kaplan–Meier method. Results Some 170 patients underwent OLR and 148 had LLR. After propensity score-matched analysis, 86 patients remained in both groups. Overall postoperative complication rates were significantly higher after OLR compared with LLR: 28 versus 14 per cent respectively (P = 0·039). The mean(s.d.) comprehensive complication index was higher in the OLR group, although the difference was not statistically significant (26·7(16·6) versus 18·3(8·0) in the LLR group; P = 0·108). The mean(s.d.) duration of required analgesia and the median (range) duration of postoperative hospital stay were significantly shorter in the LLR group: 3·0(1·1) days versus 1·6(0·8) days in the OLR group (P < 0·001), and 6 (3–44) versus 4 (1–11) days (P < 0·001), respectively. The 3-year recurrence-free survival rates for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (37 per cent for OLRversus 30 per cent for LLR; P = 0·534) and those with colorectal liver metastases (36 versus 36 per cent respectively; P = 0·440) were not significantly different between the groups. Conclusion LLR of tumours in PS segments is feasible in selected patients. LLR is associated with fewer complications and does not compromise survival compared with OLR.

Background & Aims The model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) is used for organ allocation in liver transplantation (LT), but its prognostic performance is less accurate in patients with low score. We assess the outcome of patients with MELD 15.9. Conclusions In patients with low MELD (

Background The use of the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score to prioritize patients on liver waiting lists and to share organs among centers was effective according to US data, but few reports are available in Europe. Materials and methods We evaluated the outcome of 887 patients listed between April 2004 and July 2006 in a common list by two transplant centers (University of Bologna [BO] and University of Modena [MO] ordered according to the MELD system. Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma had a score calculated according to their real MELD, tumor stage, and waiting time. Results Five hundred eighty-six (67%) patients were listed from BO and 291 (33%) from MO. The clinical features of recipients (sex, age, blood group, and real MELD) were comparable between centers. The number of liver transplantations performed was 307, and 273 (89%) recipients had a calculated MELD ≥20. Liver transplantations were equally distributed according to the number of patients listed: 215 out of 586 (36.7%) for BO and 92 out of 291 (31.6%) for MO. The median real MELD of patients transplanted was 20, and 246 out of 307 (80.1%) grafts transplanted were functioning. The dropouts from the list were 124 (14%), and 87 (70%) of these patients had a calculated MELD ≥20. Conclusion The MELD system was effective to share livers among the two Italian centers. According to this policy, livers were allocated to the recipients with the highest probability of dropout and who had a satisfactory survival after liver transplantation.

Aim Kidney transplantation with ureteral duplication may represent a doubled risk factor in terms of ureteral stenosis or necrosis with urinary leakage usually from the site of ureteroneocystostomy. The incidence of complete duplication is very low at 0.19%. We report a kidney with ureteral duplication in the specific setting of multiorgan transplantation since it could be considered a adjunctive risk factor for urological complications. Methods The recipient was a 67-year old man, suffering from terminal renal insufficiency. He was also affected by HCV-related cirrhosis. The patient had been waiting for the combined transplantation for 27 months and in the last two months his hepatic function dramatically worsened. The donor was a 53-year old man who died of non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage. Good HLA compatibility was observed between donor and recipient. During harvest both kidneys presented a complete ureteral duplication. So the ureters were freed together with a wide cuff of periureteral tissue and dissected distally. No vascular abnormalities were noted during the removal of either kidney. The grafts were flushed with University of Wisconsin solution and stored in the same solution. Results The liver was reperfused after 9 hours of cold ischemia. Subsequently the kidney was vascularized after 15 hours of cold ischemia. Urine production occurred immediately after revascularization. Two separated ureteroneocystostomies with a single antireflux technique were performed. Cyclosporine and steroids were given. Post-operative course was uneventful and liver and kidney function were normal. The 7-day cystography was normal. The 6, 12, 24 month ultrasonographies showed no signs of hydronephrosis or hydroureter. After 28 months renal cancer was diagnosed and the patient underwent a right nephrectomy. The liver-kidney recipient had excellent hepatic and renal function for 84.7 months. He died of malignancy from de novo tumor. Conclusions On the basis of this experience, a kidney with an ureteral duplication, while rare, can be satisfactorily used also in combined liver-kidney transplantation.

Survival rates of patients with acute liver failure (ALF) without transplantation are poor. Supporting these patients until an organ becomes available or until their own liver is able to regenerate itself, avoiding transplantation, is a major goal in the treatment of ALF. We report our clinical experience of portal vein arterialization in one case of massive liver necrosis after liver transplantation and in two patients with ALF caused by idiosyncratic drug reaction and mushroom intoxication. Portal vein arterialization, at least in two cases, was a turning point in the course of the disease since a close temporal association between surgery and clinical improvement was clearly evident. We believe that this novel approach, which should promote liver regeneration by providing an additional oxygen supply to the liver, may disclose a new possibility in the treatment of ALF and prompt new clinical and experimental research.

Aim We report a series of patients who underwent combined heart-kidney transplantation (CHKT) and combines liver-kidney transplantation (CLKT) at a single center. Methods From January 1997 to October 2004, 13 CLKT and 2 CHKT were performed. The CLKT indications were as follows: polycystic disease (2), kidney polycystic disease associated with Caroli (1) and cirrhosis–hepatitis C virus (HCVs) (1), chronic glomerulonephritis with cirrhosis-HCV (4), and other diseases (5). From December 2003 to October 2004, 2 patients underwent CHKT for idiopathic cardiomyopathy plus glomerulonephritis and ischemic cardiomyopathy associated with vascular nephritis. Results In the CLKT group, 1 patient had acute rejection involving both liver and kidney grafts, whereas 1 patient had liver rejection and another 1 had kidney rejection alone. Of the 13 patients, 10 are alive with a mean survival of 583 days (range, 36–2688 days); 2 patients died within 1 month of transplantation (both with polycystic disease) due to ARDS and MOF. Another patient died 6 years and 9 months after CLKT of metastasis from a de novo tumor. In the CHKT group, no patient suffered heart-kidney rejection. They are all alive at 333 and 116 days, with heart and kidney allografts functioning well. Conclusion In the CLKT group, the worst results were for patients with polycystic disease, in whom a more rigorous selection is necessary because of greater technical difficulties. For the remaining patients we had acceptable complications and excellent long-term results. In selected cases, CHKT can provide long-term graft function and patient survival. Our experience indicates that end-stage kidney failure combined with liver or heart failure does not necessarily preclude dual-organ transplantation.

Introduction We aimed to analyze the influence of intraoperative blood transfusion on postoperative complications and survival and to identify the preoperative variables associated with greater intraoperative bleeding. Materials and Methods Thirty-one elective liver transplantations (OLT) without blood transfusion performed between 1986 and 2002 (group 1) were compared with 62 patients (group 2) who underwent elective OLT with intraoperative transfusion after matching for gender, disease severity, and chronology. Results The hemoglobin and hematocrit values were significantly greater in group 1 compared to group 2. No significant differences were reported for the other parameters. In particular, the type of surgical technique had no influence on the blood requirement. As expected the nontransfused patients received less autologous packed red blood cells compared with the transfused patients. No differences were observed in either group for mean CIT, ICU and hospital stay, or acute rejection. A significant difference was observed in the number of postoperative infectious episodes, which was higher in group 2 (28 vs 5, P = .01). Graft and patient survivals at 3 months and 5 years did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusions OLT without blood transfusion may be achieved in the presence of good recipient conditions. Lower preoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit values were associated with greater intraoperative transfusions.

Although octogenarian livers have been transplanted successfully in elective settings, their safety in the case of fulminant hepatic failure has not yet been reported. From November 1998 to June 2003, we transplanted 3 livers from 80-, 82-, and 86-year-old donors. The donors were hemodynamically stable with an intensive care unit stay ranging from 24-48 hours. Cold ischemia time was from 260 minutes to 526 minutes. Mild macrosteatosis was present in 2 donors. Donor and recipient characteristics as well as posttransplantation evolution were evaluated. Two cases had uneventful courses and all recipients are well at 39, 21, and 5 months, respectively. The second recipient underwent retransplantation at 15 days due to technical complications. Livers from octogenarian donors may be safely used in an emergency to save patients. Age does not represent a limit for individually assessed and highly selected donors.

There are few reports of combined heart and liver transplantation (CHLT) for familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP). The technique for the operation remains to be defined. Four CHLTs were performed for amyloidogenic transthyretin-related (variant Glu89Gln-ATTR Glu89Gln) cardiomyopathy in our center. Patients 1 and 4 had no serious involvement of other organs, whereas patients 2 and 3 had evident peripheral neuropathy and gastrointestinal motility alterations. Patient 3 also had high-grade orthostatic hypotension. All four patients underwent cardiac and sequential hepatic transplantation with organs procured from the same donor. Venovenous bypass was used in patients 1 and 4 who experienced uncomplicated procedures. The amyloidotic liver of patient 4 was successfully utilized for a domino procedure to treat a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma on cirrhosis. The cardiac performance of patients 1 and 4 remains normal; there has been no progression of amyloidosis at 42 and 1 months after transplantation. Patient 2 had no intraoperative complications but experienced postoperative bleeding, renal failure, sepsis, and heart failure, and finally died of multiorgan failure 2 months after transplant. In patient 3, right hemicolectomy was required intraoperatively due to intestinal ischemia, without significant hemodynamic instability, while extracardiac symptoms of amyloidosis gradually worsened postoperatively. In conclusion, CHLT for ATTR Glu89Gln may be performed even in patients with advanced disease. However, the most compromised patients are more likely to display intraoperative risks, postoperative complications, and worsening of extracardiac, extrahepatic symptoms.

Background Minimally invasive right posterior sectionectomy (RPS) is a technically challenging procedure. This study was designed to determine outcomes following robotic RPS (R-RPS) and laparoscopic RPS (L-RPS). Methods An international multicentre retrospective analysis of patients undergoing R-RPS versus those who had purely L-RPS at 21 centres from 2010 to 2019 was performed. Patient demographics, perioperative parameters, and postoperative outcomes were analysed retrospectively from a central database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed, with analysis of 1 : 2 and 1 : 1 matched cohorts. Results Three-hundred and forty patients, including 96 who underwent R-RPS and 244 who had L-RPS, met the study criteria and were included. The median operating time was 295 minutes and there were 25 (7.4 per cent) open conversions. Ninety-seven (28.5 per cent) patients had cirrhosis and 56 (16.5 per cent) patients required blood transfusion. Overall postoperative morbidity rate was 22.1 per cent and major morbidity rate was 6.8 per cent. The median postoperative stay was 6 days. After 1 : 1 matching of 88 R-RPS and L-RPS patients, median (i.q.r.) blood loss (200 (100–400) versus 450 (200–900) ml, respectively; P 500 ml; P = 0.001), need for intraoperative blood transfusion (10.2 versus 23.9 per cent, respectively; P = 0.014), and open conversion rate (2.3 versus 11.4 per cent, respectively; P = 0.016) were lower in the R-RPS group. Similar results were found in the 1 : 2 matched groups (66 R-RPS versus 132 L-RPS patients). Conclusion R-RPS and L-RPS can be performed in expert centres with good outcomes in well selected patients. R-RPS was associated with reduced blood loss and lower open conversion rates than L-RPS.

Background The outbreak of COVID-19 has rapidly spread to Italy, including Pesaro-Urbino province. Data on young to middle age adults with COVID-19 are lacking. We report the characteristics, management and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with COVID-19 aging ≤50 years. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed in all patients ≤50 years with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 admitted to Emergency department (ED) of San Salvatore Hospital in Pesaro from February 28th to April 8th, 2020. Data were collected from electronical medical records. HRQoL was investigated after 1 month from hospital discharge using the SF-36 questionnaire. Outcomes were evaluated between hospitalized and not hospitalized patients. Results Among 673 patients admitted to the ED and diagnosed with COVID-19, 104 (15%) were ≤ 50 years old: 74% were discharged at home within 48 h, 26% were hospitalized. Fever occurred in 90% of the cases followed by cough (56%) and dyspnoea (34%). The most frequent coexisting conditions were hypertension (11%), thyroid dysfunction (8%) and neurological and/or mental disorders [NMDs] (6%). Mean BMI was 27. Hypokalaemia and NMDs were significantly more common in patients who underwent mechanical ventilation. Regardless of hospitalization, there was an impairment in both the physical and mental functioning. Conclusions Overweight and hypertension are frequent conditions in young to middle age adults with COVID-19. Hypokalaemia and NMDs are commonly associated with progressive disease. A significant impact on HRQoL in the early stage of post-discharge is common in this population.

Background Laparoscopic liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Child–Pugh A cirrhosis has been demonstrated as beneficial. However, the role of laparoscopy in Child–Pugh B cirrhosis is undetermined. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to compare open and laparoscopic resection for HCC with Child–Pugh B cirrhosis. Methods Data on liver resections were gathered from 17 centres. A 1 : 1 propensity score matching was performed according to 17 predefined variables. Results Of 382 available liver resections, 100 laparoscopic and 100 open resections were matched and analysed. The 90-day postoperative mortality rate was similar in open and laparoscopic groups (4.0 versus 2.0 per cent respectively; P = 0.687). Laparoscopy was associated with lower blood loss (median 110 ml versus 400 ml in the open group; P = 0.004), less morbidity (38.0 versus 51.0 per cent respectively; P = 0.041) and fewer major complications (7.0 versus 21.0 per cent; P = 0.010), and ascites was lower on postoperative days 1, 3 and 5. For laparoscopic resections, patients with portal hypertension developed more complications than those without (26 versus 12 per cent respectively; P = 0.002), and patients with a Child–Pugh B9 score had higher morbidity rates than those with B8 and B7 (7 of 8, 10 of 16 and 21 of 76 respectively; P Conclusion Patients without preoperative portal hypertension and Child–Pugh B7 cirrhosis may benefit most from laparoscopic liver surgery.

Objective: This study aims to compare the perioperative and oncological outcomes of laparoscopic and open liver resection for colorectal liver metastases in the elderly. Background: Laparoscopic liver resection has been associated with less morbidity and similar oncological outcomes to open liver resection for colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs). It has been reported that these benefits continue to be observed in elderly patients. However, in previous studies, patients over 70 or 75 years were considered as a single, homogenous population raising questions regarding the true impact of the laparoscopic approach on this diverse group of elderly patients. Method: Prospectively maintained databases of all patients undergoing liver resection for CRLM in 5 tertiary liver centers were included. Those over 70-years old were selected for this study. The cohort was divided in 3 subgroups based on age. A comparative analysis was performed after the implementation of propensity score matching on the 2 main cohorts (laparoscopic and open groups) and also on the study subgroups. Results: A total of 775 patients were included in the study. After propensity score matching 225 patients were comparable in each of the main groups. Lower blood loss (250 vs 400 mL, P = 0.001), less overall morbidity (22% vs 39%, P = 0.001), shorter High Dependency Unit (2 vs. 6 days, P = 0.001), and total hospital stay (5 vs. 8 days, P = 0.001) were observed after laparoscopic liver resection. Comparable rates of R0 resection (88% vs 88%, P = 0.999), median recurrence-free survival (33 vs 27 months, P = 0.502), and overall survival (51 vs 45 months, P = 0.671) were observed. The advantages seen with the laparoscopic approach were reproduced in the 70 to 74-year old subgroup; however there was a gradual loss of these advantages with increasing age. Conclusions: In patients over 70 years of age laparoscopic liver resection, for colorectal liver metastases, offers significant lower morbidity, and a shorter hospital stay with comparable oncological outcomes when compared with open liver resection. However, the benefits of the laparoscopic approach appear to fade with increasing age, with no statistically significant benefits in octogenarians except for a lower High Dependency Unit stay.

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has been able to improve the immune system function and survival of HIV patients with a consequent increase in the number of HIV patients affected by end-stage liver disease (ESLD). Between June 2003 and October 2006, 10 HIV-positive patients underwent liver transplantations in our center.All patients were treated with HAART before transplantation; treatment was interrupted on transplantation day and was restarted once the patients' conditions stabilized. Five patients were hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive, 3 were hepatitis B virus (HBV)-positive, and 2 were HBV-HCV coinfected. HIV viral load before transplantation was50 copies/mL in all cases. CD4+ cell count before transplantation ranged between 144 and 530 c/microL. Immunosuppression was based on Cyclosporine (CyA) and steroid weaning for 8 patients, and on Tacrolimus and steroid weaning for 2 patients.Five patients were cytomegalovirus (CMV)-positive pp65 antigenemia posttransplantation, and 1 patient was EBV-positive; 2 patients had a coinfection with HHV6. Four patients suffered from a cholestatic HCV recurrent hepatitis treated with antiviral therapy (peginterferon and Ribavirin). Three patients died after transplantation.The outcome of liver transplantation in HIV patients was influenced by infections (HCV, CMV, and EBV) and Kaposi's Sarcoma. HCV recurrence was more aggressive, showing a faster progression in this patient population. Drug interaction between HAART and immunosuppressants occurs; longer follow-up and better experience may improve the management of these drug interactions.

Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by copper overload. In this disease, inadequate hepatic excretion leads to copper accumulation in the liver, brain, kidney, and cornea. Severe neurological symptoms can develop in patients with WD, often in the absence of relevant liver damage: it is unclear whether liver transplantation (LT) could reverse neurological symptoms, and at present LT is not recommended in this setting. We report a case of regression of neurological symptoms in a patient affected by WD with prevalent neurological involvement. A 19-year-old man with disabling neuropsychiatric symptoms from WD that included frontal ataxia, akinesia, dystonia, tremors, and behavioral disorders in the presence of preserved liver function (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score=7; Child-Turcotte-Pugh score=A5) underwent LT in November 2009. At the time of LT, encephalic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) indicated diffuse neurodegenerative alterations involving subtentorial and supratentorial structures; bilateral Kayser-Fleischer ring was present. Four years after LT, laboratory tests show normalized copper metabolism and excellent liver function test results. Encephalic MRI shows a substantial improvement of already-known signal alterations at nuclei thalamus and putamen, mesencephalon, and pons. Kayser-Fleischer ring disappeared from the right eye, but a little remnant is still visible in the left eye. At neurological examination, all of the previous symptoms and signs are no longer present and behavioral disorders are no longer present; psychosocial functions are completely restored. The present case provides some evidence that LT may be a valid therapeutic option for WD patients with marked neurological impairment, particularly in those no longer responsive to chelation therapy.

Aims Liver resection is considered the standard treatment of colorectal metastases (CRLM). However, to date, no long term oncological results and data regarding repeat hepatectomy after laparoscopic approach are known. The aim of this study is to analyze single center long-term surgical and oncological outcomes after liver resection for CRLM. Methods A total of 57 open resections (OR) were matched with 57 laparoscopic resections (LR) for CRLM. Matching was based mainly on number of metastases, tumor size, segmental position of lesions, type of hepatectomy and type of resection. Results Morbidity rate was significantly less in the LR group ( p = 0.002); the length of hospital stay was 6.5 ± 5 days for the LR group and 9.2 ± 4 days for the OR group ( p = 0.005). After a median follow up of 53.7 months for the OR group and 40.9 months for the LR group, the 5-y overall survival rate was 65% and 60% respectively ( p = 0.36) and the 5-y disease free survival rate was 38% and 29% respectively ( p = 0.24). More patients in the LR group received a third hepatectomy for CRLM relapse than in the OR group (80% vs. 14.3% respectively; p = 0.015). Conclusions Laparoscopic resection for CRLM offers advantages in terms of reduced blood loss, morbidity rate and hospital stay. It provides comparable long-term oncological outcomes but can improve further resectability in patients with recurrent disease.

Expansion of the donor pool has led to reconsideration of selection criteria to obtain the largest number of grafts without compromising recipient outcomes. This reconsideration concerns the utilization of donors with malignancies. Herein we have analyzed the outcomes, survivals, and risks of cancer transmission among patients who received a liver transplant from a donor with a genitourinary malignancy. Six of 363 patients (1.5%) who underwent transplantation at our center received an organ from a donor with a genitourinary cancer which was detected prior to the surgical harvest. Donors affected by low-grade renal cell carcinoma (Fuhrman grade 1 or 2) or low-grade intraprostatic prostate carcinoma (Gleason score ≤ 6) were classified as “standard risk” and utilized pending informed consent. Four of 6 patients (66.6%) succumbed, but none consequent to a neoplastic disease. The mean follow-up was 12 ± 8.1 months; in no patient was there evidence of transmission of a donor malignancy. Despite a relatively high risk of liver metastases among patients with genitourinary neoplasms, the risk of tumor transmission to a liver recipient is low. It seems to be safe to utilize these donors for patients with a high risk of succumbing on the waiting list.

Hemophilia B is a congenital recessive disorder caused by deficiency of coagulation factor IX (FIX). Surgical procedures can be performed in patients with hemophilia using high-purity and/or recombinant FIX, which has been shown to be safe and effective in surgical hemostasis. Liver transplantation is the only potentially curative treatment available for these patients, providing a long-term phenotypic cure for hemophilia. End-stage liver disease together with hemophilia exposes patients to greater risks of bleeding complications during the perioperative period with consequent difficulties in managing coagulopathy. The limited experiences reported by different investigators and the various strategies for clotting factor replacement make it difficult to define a single approach with respect to the optimal dose and method of administering FIX to achieve perioperative hemostasis. The limits of plasma-based coagulation tests--prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time--have made thromboelastography a valid alternative in this kind of surgery. It has been demonstrated to be a useful tool for real-time analysis of clot formation using a whole-blood assay format. Further, it accurately illustrates the clinical effects of procoagulant or anticoagulant interventions. In this article, we have described the usefulness of thromboelastography to monitor the ability of high-purity FIX supplementation to restore a normal coagulation state and to guide the perioperative administration of blood products in a successful orthotopic liver transplantation in a hemophilic patient with deficiencies of factors IX and X, presenting with hepatitis C virus-related cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

To evaluate the influence of pretransplantation recipient and donor prognostic factors on graft-patient survival.Between April 1986 and June 2003, 40 liver transplantation (LT) procedures to treat fulminant hepatic failure were performed (5.7%). Twenty-one pre-LT recipient and donor variables were retrospectively considered for analysis.The indications for LT were hyperacute (62.5%), acute (35%), and subacute hepatic failure (2.5%). Glasgow Coma Scale scores ranged from5 in 22 patients toor =5 in 18 patients. The causes were hepatitis B (n = 21), unknown (n = 10), Amanita phalloides (n = 5), and other (n = 4). The 1-year graft and patient survival rates were 48.3% and 61.3%, respectively. Perioperative and late mortality was 27.5% and 22.5%. The only variable statistically significant for graft survival was waiting list time for LT48 hours (P = .05).Liver transplantation is the best treatment for fulminant hepatic failure, with a 1-year patient survival rate of 61.3%. The short waiting list time has an important role in outcome.

BACKGROUND: The aim of our work is to assess the clinical outcomes of liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in HIV-coinfected patients. This is a multicenter study involving three Italian transplant centers in northern Italy: University of Modena, University of Bologna, and University of Udine. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We compared 30 HIV-positive patients affected by HCC who underwent LT with 125 HIV-uninfected patients who received the same treatment from September 2004 to June 2009. At listing, there were no differences between HIV-infected and -uninfected patients regarding HCC features. Patients outside the University of California, San Francisco criteria (UCSF) were considered eligible for LT if a down-staging program permitted a reduction of tumor burden. RESULTS: HIV-infected patients were younger, they were more frequently anti-HCV positive, and a higher number of HIV-infected patients presented a coinfection HBV-HCV. Pre-LT treatments (liver resection and or locoregional treatments) were similar between the two groups. Histological characteristics of the tumor were similar in patients with and without HIV infection. No differences were observed in terms of overall survival and HCC recurrence rates. CONCLUSION: LT for HCC is a feasible procedure and the presence of HIV does not particularly affect the post-LT outcome.

Background Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a well-recognized complication of chronic liver disease with a prevalence ranging from 1% to 16%. Materials and Methods We performed a retrospective review of 447 consecutive patients who underwent liver transplantation (OLT) between October 2000 and December 2011 comparing 51 recipients with PVT (study group) with 399 without PVT (control group). The aim of this study was to determine the impact of pre-existent PVT on the surgical procedure, to identify specific preventable perioperative complications, and based on our studies and other works, to determine whether this group of patients are acceptable candidates for OLT. Results Among the 51 patients with PVT, 44 showed partial and 7 complete thrombosis. In 47 cases, we performed a thromboendovenectomy. There were six anastomoses at the confluence of the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) and one, with a venous graft interposition. In four complete thrombosis recipients we performed an extra-anatomic by pass between the main trunk of the SMV and the donor portal vein. Compared with the control group, regarding preoperative characteristics, PVT patients were older at the time of transplantation ( P = .001) and had a higher use of TIPS ( P = .02). The operative characteristics showed a longer warm ischemia time in the PVT group (46.9 ± 22.5 vs 39.3 ± 15 min; P = .004). There were significant differences in postoperative evaluations, nor in the complication rates. Overall survivals at 10 years were similar: 61.7% versus 65.3%; ( P = .9). Conclusion Although PVT was associated with greater operative complexity, it had no influence on postoperative complications or overall survival.

Introduction The shortage of donors has made it necessary to consider older subjects, those with mild or moderate steatosis, and those who are HBcAb- or hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive as marginal donors. Materials and methods From April 1986 to January 2002, 690 orthotopic liver transplantations (OLTs) were performed in 603 patients. In this series we used 68 donors older than 70 years, 51 with steatosis (38 mild, 12 moderate, and 1 severe), 44 were HBcAb-positive and 6 were HCV-positive. Results Of 68 grafts from donors older than 70 years, 65 were used as a first OLT. These grafts showed 3 PNF, 11 arterial complications, 12 re-OLTs, and 14 deaths with graft survival of 72.3% and 61.34% at 1 and 3 years, respectively. All patients who received the other 3 grafts, which were used for re-OLT, died between postoperative day 21 and 720. Among the 51 grafts with steatosis, we observed 2 PNF of those within the mild steatosis group and graft survival rates of 76.8% and 70.9% at 1 and 3 years, respectively. Forty-four grafts from HBcAb-positive subjects were used in 18 HBsAg-negative and 26 HBsAg-positive recipients. Among the untreated patient group, 1 patient demonstrated hepatitis B virus (HBV) reinfection and 1 patient had de-novo HBV. No reinfection or de novo infections were observed in the 13 patients treated with immunoglobulin or in the 19 patients treated with lamivudine plus immunoglobulin, or in the only patient treated with lamivudine. Graft survival rates were 64.1% and 54.7% at 1 and 3 years, respectively. Among who received 6 patients transplants from HCV-positive donors, we observed 1 recurrence of chronic hepatitis, 1 re-OLT for hepatic vein stenosis, and 1 PNF. Conclusion Old donors, those with moderate steatosis, or those who are HBcAb- and HCV-positive can be safely used in selected recipients to reduce waiting list mortality.

Although human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has been a major global health problem for almost 3 decades, with the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy in 1996 and effective prophylaxis and management of opportunistic infections, mortality from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome has decreased markedly. In developed countries, this condition is now being treated as a chronic condition. As a result, rates of morbidity and mortality from other medical conditions leading to end-stage liver, kidney, and heart disease are steadily increasing in individuals with HIV. Because the definitive treatment for end-stage organ failure is transplantation, the demand for it has increased among HIV-infected patients. For these reasons, many transplant centers have eliminated HIV infection as a contraindication to transplantation, as a result of better patient management and demand.

Introduction Highly effective antiretroviral therapy in the last decade has increased the survival rates of HIV-positive patients, yielding a greater number of HIV patients suffering from liver-related disease. Liver transplantation (LT) is the only curative treatment for end-stage liver disease (ESLD) associated or not with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients and methods From June 2003 to September 2010, 23 patients underwent cadaveric donor LT for ESLD at our institution. Inclusion criteria followed the Italian Protocol for LT in HIV-positive patients. Immunosuppressive regimens were based on cyclosporine or tacrolimus, eventually switched to Rapamycin. Results The median CD4 T-cell count was 275/mmc (range = 119–924). All patients were affected by ESLD, which was associated with HCC in 14 cases. Ten patients were within the Milan criteria and four patients exceeded them but were within the San Francisco criteria. Conversion from calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) to rapamycin occurred in ten cases. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) recurrence occurred in 13/21 HCV-positive patients. Acute cellular rejection occurred in eight patients with one developing chronic cellular rejection. Overall patient and graft survivals at 80 months were 50% and 45% respectively. Discussion LT in HIV-positive patients is a feasible procedure, even if in our experience was burdened by a greater incidence of complications including HCV recurrence and infection compared with HIV-negative patients.

Background. The growing prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the general population has resulted in an increased frequency of potential organ donors that carry the virus. Given the significant disparity between organ supply and demand for transplantation, it becomes essential to consider whether livers from anti-HCV-positive donors may be considered suitable for transplantation. Methods. Based on a multicenter European database, 694 patients with HCV-related cirrhosis underwent liver transplantation and 11% of them received the graft from anti-HCV-positive donors. Of this group, we selected 63 patients (study group) and, after a 1:1 case-control approach, compared them with 63 patients that received an anti-HCV-negative donor graft (control group). Only grafts with preperfusion liver biopsy results with a fibrosis score of not more than 1 were used for transplantation. Results. Patients who received anti-HCV-positive grafts had a cumulative survival rate of 83.6% and 61.7% at 1 and 5 years, respectively, vs. 95.1% and 68.2% for the control group. In comparing overall patient and graft survival, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.22 and 0.11). Recurrence of hepatitis C tended to be more rapid in the group of patients who received anti-HCV-positive grafts, although it did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.07). Conclusions. We do not recommend the indiscriminate use of anti-HCV-positive donors, especially if HCV-RNA positive, as the use of this kind of graft could be linked to an advanced stage of fibrosis, the main risk factor we observed for earlier hepatitis C recurrence.

The current therapy for hepatitis C recurrence after liver transplantation OLT is based on interferon (IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) in monotherapy or combination. The rate of sustained virological response (SVR) varies between 10% and 45%. We have retrospectively analyzed factors that could predict SVR after antiviral therapy. We analyzed 42 patients who completed a cycle of therapy with natural or pegylated IFN plus RBV. There were 15 (35.7%) patients who obtained an SVR. The following factors were significantly associated with a lack of SVR: donor age >or=50 years (P = .046); donor body mass index (BMI) > 27 (P = .016); genotype 1 versus 2 to 3 (P = 0.010), aspartate transferase (AST) before therapy >or= 140 U/L (P = .046), alanine transferase before therapy >or= 280 U/L (P = .055), use of natural IFN versus pegylated IFN (P = .016). The only factors remaining after multivariate analysis were: donor BMI, AST before therapy and genotype. Our data confirmed that genotype 1 was associated with poorer outcomes; other additional parameters can influence the response to antiviral therapy.

The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an acceptable procedure that has proven benefits in the treatment of patients who have complications from portal hypertension due to liver cirrhosis. In the literature few reports have described complications after TIPS placement. Initial surgery and local hemostasis have been needed to manage abdominal bleeding: if this treatment is insufficient, it may be necessary to perform a liver transplantation. This report describes the role of liver transplantation to manage dangerous complications in 2 patients after TIPS placement, when surgical procedures and hemostasis were unable to stop the bleeding.

We designed a randomized trial to assess whether the early withdrawal of cyclosporine (CsA) followed by the initiation of everolimus (Evr) monotherapy in de novo liver transplantation (LT) patients would result in superior renal function compared to a CsA-based immunosuppression protocol. All patients were treated with CsA for the first 10 days and then randomized to receive Evr in combination with CsA up to day 30, then either continued on Evr monotherapy (Evr group) or maintained on CsA with/without mycophenolate mofetil (CsA group) in case of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Seventy-eight patients were randomized (Evr n = 52; CsA n = 26). The 1-year freedom from efficacy failure in Evr group was 75% versus 69.2% in CsA group, p = 0.36. There was no statistically significant difference in patient survival between the two groups. Mean modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) was significantly better in the Evr group at 12 months (87.7 ± 26.1 vs. 59.9 ± 12.6 mL/min; p < 0.001). The incidence of CKD stage ≥ 3 (estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min) was higher in the CsA group at 1 year (52.2% vs. 15.4%, p = 0.005). The results indicate that early withdrawal of CsA followed by Evr monotherapy in de novo LT patients is associated with an improvement in renal function, with a similar incidence of rejection and major complications.

Most transplant centers consider severe pulmonary hypertension (PHT) to be an absolute contraindication for orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). We retrospectively examined the outcome of 24 patients with PHT (group 1) who underwent OLT compared with 24 matched patients (group 2) without PHT, who also underwent OLT. Based on right cardiac catheterization measurements made after the induction of anesthesia for OLT, PHT was defined as mild or moderate-to-severe if the mean pulmonary arterial pressure exceeded 25 or 35 mm Hg, respectively. The incidence of PHT was 9.8% (24/244); 21/24 PHT patients showed mild and 3/24 moderate PHT. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis did not show a significant difference between the two groups. The incidence of pulmonary infections was significantly greater in group 1 (P < .05). The duration of ventilation and intensive care unit stay was similar in the two groups. Echocardiography detected only the three moderate cases of PHT and not the twenty-one cases of mild PHT. Our analysis suggested that mild PHT was common and did not affect patient outcomes after OLT; moderate or severe PHT was uncommon. The two patients with moderate PHT survived OLT and did not succum to PHT during long-term follow-up.

Disorders in lipoprotein metabolism do not contraindicate liver procurement and transplantation (LT). In this circumstance, LT provides an intriguing opportunity to assess the in vivo contribution of the liver to the synthesis and degradation of genetically polymorphic plasma proteins. Apolipoprotein (APO) E exists with several common phenotypic differences due to gene polymorphism. Some authors have shown that the APOE phenotype of the recipient was virtually completely converted to that of the donor, providing evidence that >90% of plasma APOE arises from the liver. Homozygosis for APOE2 (E2-E2) is related to an increased incidence of type III hyperlipoproteinemia (HLP). Recently, some authors have identified 4 new APOE mutations that are strongly linked to a unique entity of renal lipidosis called lipoprotein glomerulopathy (LPG). At present, 65 cases of LPG have been reported worldwide, although most patients have been discovered in Japan and other East Asian countries. We have herein reported a case of LT in a patient with advanced hepatocarcinoma who received a liver from a caucasian donor affected by type III HLP due to homozygous E2-E2. The LPG was due to a novel genetic mutation in APOE. After the LT, the recipient, developed de novo severe lipid abnormalities despite good graft function. To our knowledge this is the first report of an LT using a graft from a non Asian donor with homozygous E2-E2 with the presence of a novel APOE mutation.

The average age of patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) is consistently increasing. The aim of this case-control study is to evaluate survival and outcome of patients ≥65 yr compared to younger patients undergoing LT.From 10/00 to 4/08 we performed 330 primary LT, 31 (9.4%) of these were in patients aged 65-70. Following a case-control approach, we compared these patients with 31 patients aged between 41 and 64 yr and matched according to sex, LT indication, viral status, cadaveric/living donor, LT timing, and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score.There were no statistically significant differences in demographic and surgical donor characteristics. The mean MELD score was under 18 in both groups. Post-LT complications occurred with a similar incidence in the two groups. one-, three-, and five-yr survival was 83.9%, 80.6%, and 80.6%, respectively, for the elderly group, and 80.6%, 73.8%, and 73.8%, respectively, for the young group (p = 0.61).Patients aged between 65 and 70 with low MELD score who undergo LT have the same short- and middle-term survival expectancy, morbidity, and outcome quality as younger patients with the same indication and same pre-LT pathology severity, whatever they might be. Thus, chronological age alone should not deter LT workup in patients65 and70.

Objective. Nephrotoxicity is a serious adverse effect after liver transplantation often related to calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) with a incidence of 18.1% at 5 years. Sirolimus (SRL) is a new immunosuppressive drug that was introduced into solid organ transplant management in 1999. Herein we have performed a retrospective review of patients who developed renal insufficiency owing to CNI therapy after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Materials and Methods. Thirty-one patients were switched to SRL monotherapy because of nephrotoxicity as evidenced by serum creatinine levels (SCr) > 1.8 mg/dL and estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) < 45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . The dosage was adjusted to achieve trough levels between 8 and 10 ng/mL. Results. The patients were followed for a mean of 52 months (range 2―88 months) after OLT. Mean follow-up after the switch was 27.5 months (range, 2―71.2 months). Immunosuppression was switched after a mean of 35.2 months (range, 0.2―43.4 months). Renal function was significantly improved, as shown by the improved SCr, urea, and eGFR after the switch. Conclusions. CNIs may be associated with significant nephrotoxicity and chronic kidney damage. Patients who develop renal dysfunction after OLT may be successfully treated by an early switch from CNIs to SRL, stopping the progression toward chronic renal damage and preserving allograft survival.

Introduction. In liver transplantation (OLT) a porto-caval shunt is a well-defined technique practiced by many surgeons in several centers. Methods. We considered 186 cadaveric OLT patients who underwent a cavo-cavostomytype reconstruction; they were divided into two groups: those in whom we performed a porto-caval shunt (group A) and those in whose we did not (group B). We evaluated several variables: warm and total ischemia time, intraoperative blood and fresh frozen plasma transfusions, crystalloid and colloid requirements, blood loss, operative duration, hemodynamic intraoperative changes and diuresis, length of hospital stay, and creatinine values at days 1 and 2, and at discharge day. Results. Total and warm ischemic time differed significantly between the two groups. Infusion of blood, fresh frozen plasma, colloid, and crystalloid did not significantly differ. Blood loss was lower, and intraoperative diuresis was not significantly increased in group A subjects. Postoperative hospitalizations were 16.5 and 17.8 days and operative times, 504 and 611 minutes in the two groups. Both cardiac index and ejection fraction values during the anhepatic phase were significantly greater among group A than group B patients. PAD at the two phases was greater in group B. The PAS was significantly different only at reperfusion time. Creatinine values were significantly different at discharge. Better survival was shown for group A patients over group B subjects. Conclusion. The results presented herein confirmed that a porto-caval shunt during OLT was a safe, useful expedient contributing to an improved hemodynamic status and a better time distribution in the various phases of liver transplantation.

Introduction Anemia after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is a common complication due to several reasons. Immunosuppressive drugs play an important role in anemia occurring at 1 month or more after OLT. Several studies describe myelosuppression immunosuppressants such as the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors. Methods We performed a single-center, prospective trial consisting of a short 30-day course of cyclosporine (CsA) associated with everolimus (EVL) from postoperative day 10 (Group EVL) versus a CsA immunosuppressive regimen (Group CsA) in de novo OLT patients. We explored the influence of immunosuppressive drugs on hematological parameters comparing EVL versus CsA. Results Twenty-eight patients were enrolled in the EVL and 12 in the CsA Groups. After OLT, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), white blood cell (WBC), platelets (PLT), transferrin staturation (TSAT), iron, ferritin, and transferrin did not differ significantly between the 2 groups at any time point. Among the patients who reached 6-months of follow-up, 5 (41.7%) EVL and 4 (80%) CsA subjects were anemic (P = not significant [NS]). Only anemia in patients enrolled in Group EVL showed a trend toward the features of microcytic, hypochromic anemia. Discussion Our results demonstrated that de novo anemia in OLT patients treated with EVL monotherapy showed the same incidence as in patients treated with CsA. Hb values remained similar during the entire follow-up. Moreover, overall myelosuppression in the EVL Group was not significantly different from patients in the CsA Group.

Introduction Since 1999, a new immunosuppressive drug was administered to renal transplant patients. The SRL molecule acts by blocking post-receptor signal transduction of interleukin-2 (IL-2) interacting with a family of intracellular binding proteins termed immunophilins FKBPs. Among these FKBPs, FK506 12-kd binding protein is the most relevant. SRL is an immunosuppressive drug. Therefore it can inhibit the immune system; at the same time the drug is not nephrotoxic, neurotoxic, and without diabetogenic effects. Methods Among 285 patients who underwent liver transplantation, 27 took Sirolimus as monotherapy. Immunosuppressive treatment upto cyclosporine (CsA) or tacrolimus (FK) associated with steroids (methylprednisolone) and mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) was initiated among subjects with pre-transplant renal failure. SRL was administered as monotherapy for patients who developed nephrotoxicity, or neurotoxicity, or diabetes. Moreover, patients affected by multifocal HCC who did not meet the Milan criteria or patients who developed Kaposi’s Sarcoma were prescribed SRL monotherapy. Results Nephrotoxicity occurred in 14 patients with mean serum creatinine level 2.2 mg/dl. Eleven patients with real failure showed significant improvements after a mean period of 28 days of SRL monotherapy (range: 6–45 days). The mean creatinine serum level after treatment with SRL monotherapy was 1.0 mg/dl (range: 0.7–1.2 mg/dl). Neurotoxicity occurred in 4 patients with tremor, confusion, and agitation. Each patient had complete improvement of symptoms after a few days of Sirolimus monotherapy. Among Three patients who developed Kaposi’s Sarcoma, two underwent remission. One patient had diabetes due to calcineurin inhibitors, and one showed arterial hypertension not treatable with drugs. After the switch, we treated these patients with medications. Another important indication was HCC not meeting the Milan criteria. Conclusion SRL monotherapy may be used to manage complication of calcineurin inhibitors or Kaposi’s Sarcoma.

Introduction Several reports have shown the effectiveness of liver transplantation (LT) as a therapeutic option in HIV-patients affected by end-stage liver disease. HCC on cirrhosis is another major indication for LT. However, no reports, to our knowledge, have been published as yet addressing the important questions of indications and outcome of LT in HIV-patients with HCC, mainly because of concerns regarding a more aggressive course of HCC with respect to HCC seen in HIV-negative individuals. Methods The aim of this report is to focus on indications, preliminary results and complications of LT in a group of 7 HIV-patients who underwent LT at our department for HCC on cirrhosis. Results Indications to listing HIV-patients were HCC using the internationally accepted Milan criteria. All patients were HBV-and/or HCV-infected. The mean CD4+ cell-count was 249 (range 144–353), and the HIV-RNA load was undetectable in all but one case. After a mean follow-up period of 232 days (range 33–774), no recurrence of HCC was seen; one patient died. Conclusion Characteristics of the study protocol, the patients, virological and immunological features, tumor stage and pre-transplantation treatment, complications and survival are herein described in an effort to provide new insights into methodology for an aggressive management of HCC in HIV patients, and possibly give a greater chance of cure.