Elevation of the tumor marker CA19-9 in a pancreatic cancer survivor with benign prostatic hyperplasia: A clinical case report.

Serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) is used for recurrence surveillance in patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). This report describes the association of increasing CA19-9 in a male PDAC survivor with presence of prostatic hyperplasia. Unexplained elevation of CA19-9 in male PDAC survivors might be attributable to benign prostatic conditions.

Monitoring quality of care in hepatocellular carcinoma: A modified Delphi consensus.

Although there are several established international guidelines on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), there is limited information detailing specific indicators of good quality care. The aim of this study was to develop a core set of quality indicators (QIs) to underpin the management of HCC. We undertook a modified, two-round, Delphi consensus study comprising a working group and experts involved in the management of HCC as well as consumer representatives.

Exploring pre-surgery donor-specific antibodies in the context of organ shortage in liver transplant.

Background: There is a growing disparity between the number of liver transplant (LT) candidates and availability of suitable liver allografts. Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR), secondary to positive donor-specific antibodies (DSA), remains a concern in liver transplantation. This study aimed to correlate expression of DSA on pre-transplant screening and outcomes of LT, specifically development of AMR in liver allografts and liver function profile in the post-operative period.

Oestrogen hormone receptors in focal nodular hyperplasia.

Background: The role of hormones in focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) has been investigated with conflicting results.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate oestrogen and progesterone receptor immunohistochemical expression in FNH and surrounding normal liver (control material).

Methods: Biopsy materials from FNH and control tissue were investigated using an immunostainer.

South Australian clinical registry for metastatic colorectal cancer.

Introduction: The aims of the South Australian Clinical Registry for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer are to record case outcomes according to site of recurrence and mode of clinical practice and to utilize the accumulated information for quality assurance activities.

Methods: All patients who had a diagnosis of synchronous or metachronous metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) after 1 February 2006 were eligible to be included in the registry. Data on patient details, disease characteristics, investigations, histopathology and treatment were collected.

Learning curve for laparoscopic repair of very large hiatal hernia.

Background: Laparoscopic repair of a large hiatal hernia is technically challenging. A significant learning curve likely exists that has not been studied to date.

Methods: Since 1992, the authors have prospectively collected data for all patients undergoing laparoscopic repair of a very large hiatal hernia (50% or more of the stomach within the chest).

Influence of resection margin on survival in hepatic resections for colorectal liver metastases.

Background: Traditionally a 1-cm margin has been accepted as the gold standard for resection of colorectal liver metastases. Evidence is emerging that a lesser margin may provide equally acceptable outcomes, but a critical margin, below which recurrence is higher and survival poorer, has not been universally agreed. In a recent publication, we reported peri-operative morbidity and clear margin as the two independent prognostic factors.

Acute ruptured esophageal duplication cyst.

A 32-year-old man presented acutely with a ruptured esophageal duplication cyst. This is a rare complication from an unusual congenital condition. The case describes his clinical presentation, radiological investigation and surgical management.

Suturing efficiency during hiatal repair for laparoscopic fundoplication.

Background: An increasingly important part of general surgical training is the development of skills in advanced laparoscopic surgery. However, this aspect of laparoscopy is not always well taught, and there is scope for improving both training and the assessment of performance. Recently, the improved affordability and accessibility of digital video technology and supporting computer systems has enabled critical analysis of operative techniques in laparoscopic surgery to be carried out inexpensively.