Coated poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (Phasix ST™) mesh is safe and effective for hiatal hernia repair: our institutional experience and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) is a bioabsorbable mesh with a non-adhesive coating on one side that is being used to reinforce the hiatus during hiatal hernia repair; however, there is limited data regarding its use. The aim of this study was to investigate outcomes after hiatal hernia repair using this mesh at our institution and through a review of the literature. METHODS: An institutional review board-approved prospective database was retrospectively reviewed for all patients undergoing hiatal hernia repair from April 2018 to December 2022. A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate outcomes using P4HB coated mesh. RESULTS: In our institutional cohort, there were 230 patients (59 males; 171 females) with a mean follow-up of 20 ± 14.6 months. No mesh-related complications occurred. Hernia recurrence was diagnosed in 11 patients (4.8%) with a median time to recurrence of 16 months. In the systematic review, 4 studies with 221 patients (76 males; 145 females) were included. Median follow-up ranged from 12 to 27 months. Recurrence rate in these studies was reported from 0 to 8.8%, with a total of 12 recurrences identified. Like our institutional cohort, no mesh-related complications were reported. After our recurrences were combined with those from the systematic review, a total of 23 recurrences were included in the meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis revealed a low recurrence rate following hiatal hernia repair with P4HB coated mesh (incidence rate per 100 person-years, 2.82; 95% confidence interval, 1.60, 4.04). CONCLUSION: P4HB coated mesh is safe and effective for hiatal hernia repairs.

Modern approaches to treating Zenker's diverticulum.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Zenker's diverticulum is the most common hypopharyngeal diverticulum. Patients with Zenker's diverticulum may require surgical treatment, which can be performed via an open surgical or endoscopic approach. A new endoscopic technique that is now being used for Zenker's diverticulum is Zenker Per Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (ZPOEM). ZPOEM has demonstrated promising results, and may have certain advantages over the other endoscopic treatments. The purpose of this review article is to evaluate the various surgical and endoscopic treatment options for Zenker's diverticulum, while specifically focusing on ZPOEM. RECENT FINDINGS: Endoscopic approaches have become the first-line therapy for Zenker's diverticulum, replacing the traditional open approach, because of the less invasive nature of the endoscopic procedures, improved rates of morbidity, and quicker recovery times. Recent studies evaluating ZPOEM have demonstrated that it is technically feasible and highly efficacious. In addition, it has a low rate of clinical recurrence and adverse events. When compared with other endoscopic techniques for treating Zenker's diverticulum, ZPOEM appears to have improved outcomes. SUMMARY: ZPOEM has been recently implemented in the algorithm of Zenker's diverticulum management. Further comparative and prospective studies focusing on long-term follow-up are still needed; however, ZPOEM appears to be an excellent option for patients suffering from Zenker's diverticulum.

Probability of additional intervention and long-term follow-up of esophagomyotomy.

INTRODUCTION: Two common surgical procedures used to treat esophageal motility disorders are laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) with partial fundoplication and per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). The difference in frequency of follow-up interventions following these procedures is unknown. This study was designed to report differences in post-surgical interventions as one of the major long-term follow-up expectations. METHODS: An IRB approved registry was used to identify all patients undergoing surgery with LHM or POEM. Following surgery, patients requiring additional interventions with esophageal non-pneumatic dilation, botox injection, or repeat myotomy, as well as persistent proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use were recorded. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate risk factors associated with return for additional post-operative intervention. RESULTS: A total of 203 patients were identified, 139 met inclusion criteria (33 LHM and 106 POEM). There was a higher rate of non-pneumatic EGD dilation (33% vs 15%, p = 0.04), repeat myotomy (18% vs 2%, p < 0.01), and higher rate of overall post-operative intervention in LHM than POEM. With POEM, there was a higher rate of post-operative PPI use (63 vs 29%, p < 0.01). There was no difference in time to post-operative intervention for either group, but if intervention were to occur the median time was within the first year. Patients with a change in pre- to post-operative Eckardt score of 4 or greater decreased their chance of having a post-operative intervention. CONCLUSION: Our results for both LHM and POEM emphasize the importance of long-term follow-up in patients with an esophageal motility disorder. We have found that patients undergoing LHM are more likely to have a post-operative intervention as well as a higher rate of repeat myotomy than POEM. With both interventions, a greater change in Eckardt score decreased the likelihood of reintervention.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) decreases complications and reduces length of stay in foregut surgery patients.

INTRODUCTION: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs provide a framework for optimal perioperative care to improve post-operative outcomes following surgical procedures. However, there is no consensus regarding an ERAS protocol following foregut surgery. The purpose of this study was to develop an ERAS protocol for these patients and determine whether they improved outcomes. METHODS: An IRB approved prospectively maintained database was retrospectively reviewed for all patients undergoing benign minimally invasive foregut surgery from October 2018 to January 2020. All patients were entered into the ACS risk calculator to determine their predicted rate of complications and length of stay for comparison between the ERAS and control groups. Propensity matching was used to compare post-ERAS implementation to pre-ERAS implementation patients. Firth logistic and Poisson regression analysis were used to assess the rate of complications and length of stay among the different groups of patients. RESULTS: There were 255 patients (60 Post-ERAS, 195 Pre-ERAS) who underwent foregut operations and met inclusion criteria. ERAS was implemented, and patients were then subdivided based on those who completed ERAS (44) and those who deviated from the protocol (16). Propensity matching analysis was performed to compare the different cohorts and showed ERAS patients had 41% decreased odds of complications and 33% reduction in length of stay compared to pre-ERAS patients. Completion of the ERAS protocol resulted in even further reductions in odds of complication and length of stay compared to patients who deviated from the protocol. CONCLUSIONS: ERAS has shown to improve perioperative outcomes, but there is limited literature supporting the use of ERAS in foregut surgery. Usage of an ERAS protocol can decrease complications and reduce the length of stay in patients.

Comparison of long-term quality of life outcomes between endoscopic vacuum therapy and other treatments for upper gastrointestinal leaks.

BACKGROUND: While endoscopic vacuum assisted closure (EVAC) therapy is a validated treatment for gastrointestinal leaks, its impact on long-term quality of life (QoL) is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of successful EVAC management on long-term QoL outcomes. METHODS: An institutional review board approved prospectively maintained database was retrospectively reviewed to identify patients undergoing treatment for gastrointestinal leaks between June 2012 and July 2022. The Short-Form 36 (SF-36) survey was used to assess QoL. Patients were contacted by telephone and sent the survey electronically. QoL outcomes between patients who underwent successful EVAC therapy and those who required conventional treatment (CT) were analyzed and compared. RESULTS: A total of 44 patients (17 EVAC; 27 CT) completed the survey and were included in our analysis. All included patients had foregut leaks with sleeve gastrectomy being the most common sentinel operation (n = 20). The mean time from the sentinel operation was 3.8 years and 4.8 years for the EVAC and CT groups, respectively. When evaluating long-term QoL, the EVAC group scored higher in all QoL domains when compared to the CT group with physical functioning (87.3 vs 69.3, p = 0.04), role limitations due to physical health (84.1 vs 45.7, p = 0.02), energy/fatigue (60.0 vs 40.9, p = 0.04), and social functioning (86.2 vs 64.1, p = 0.04) reaching statistical significance. Overall, patients who achieved organ preservation via successful EVAC therapy scored higher in all domains with role limitations due to physical health (p = 0.04) being statistically significant. In a multivariable regression analysis, increased age and a history of prior abdominal surgery at the time of the sentinel operation were patient characteristics that negatively impacted QoL outcomes. CONCLUSION: Patients with gastrointestinal leaks successfully managed by EVAC therapy have better long-term QoL outcomes when compared to patients undergoing other treatments.

Gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy versus pyloric injection of botulinum toxin for the treatment of gastroparesis: our institutional experience and a systematic review of the literature.

INTRODUCTION: Gastric Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (GPOEM) has been developed as an effective treatment option for patients with medically refractory gastroparesis. Other endoscopic options, such as pyloric injection of botulinum toxin (Botox), is often performed with limited efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate GPOEM for the treatment of gastroparesis and compare its efficacy to Botox injection results reported in the literature. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted to identify all patients who underwent a GPOEM for the treatment of gastroparesis between September 2018 and June 2022. Changes in Gastric Emptying Scintigraphy (GES) studies and Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom (GCSI) scores from the preoperative to postoperative period were analyzed. In addition, a systematic review was conducted to identify all publications reporting the outcomes of Botox injections for the treatment of gastroparesis. RESULTS: A total of 65 patients (51 female, 14 male) underwent a GPOEM during the study period. Twenty-eight patients (22 female, 6 male) had both preoperative and postoperative GES studies in addition to GCSI scores. The etiologies of gastroparesis were diabetic (n = 4), idiopathic (n = 18), and postsurgical (n = 6). Fifty percent of these patients had undergone previous failed interventions including Botox injections (n = 6), gastric stimulator placement (n = 2), and endoscopic pyloric dilation (n = 6). Outcomes showed a significant decrease in GES percentages (mean difference = - 23.5%, p < 0.001) and GCSI scores (mean difference = - 9.6, p = 0.02) postoperatively. In the systematic review for Botox, transient mean improvements in postoperative GES percentages and GCSI scores were reported at 10.1% and 4.0, respectively. CONCLUSION: GPOEM leads to significant improvement in GES percentages and GCSI scores postoperatively and is superior to Botox injection results reported in the literature.

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy is a safe and effective treatment for Zenker's diverticulum: a retrospective multicenter study.

Zenker per-oral endoscopic myotomy (ZPOEM) has become a promising technique for Zenker's diverticulum (ZD). The aim of this study was to add to the limited body of literature evaluating the safety and efficacy of ZPOEM. A prospectively maintained database was retrospectively reviewed to identify patients who underwent ZPOEM at two separate institutions between January 2020 and January 2022. Demographics, preoperative and postoperative clinical data, intraoperative data, adverse events, and length of stay were analyzed. A total of 40 patients (mean age 72.5 years, 62.5% male) were included. Average operative time was 54.7 minutes and average length of stay was 1.1 days. There were three adverse events, and only one was related to the technical aspects of the procedure. Patients showed improvement in the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) scores at 1 month (5 vs 7, p < 0.0001). The median FOIS scores remained 7 at both 6 and 12 months, although this improvement was not statistically significant at these time intervals (p = 0.46 and 0.37, respectively). Median dysphagia scores were decreased at 1 (2.5 vs 0, p < 0.0001), 6 (2.5 vs 0, p < 0.0001), and 12 months (2.5 vs 0, p = 0.016). The number of patients reporting ≥1 symptom was also decreased at 1 (40 vs 9, p < 0.0001) and 6 months (40 vs 1, p = 0.041). Although the number of patients reporting ≥1 symptom remained consistent at 12 months, this was not statistically significant (40 vs 1, p = 0.13). ZPOEM is a safe and highly effective treatment for the management of ZD. .

The broad impact of functional lumen imaging probe panometry in addition to high-resolution manometry in an esophageal clinical practice.

High-resolution manometry (HRM) with the Chicago Classification (CC) is the standard paradigm to define esophageal motility disorders. Functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) panometry utilizes impedance planimetry to characterize esophageal compliance and secondary peristalsis. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical impact of FLIP panometry in addition to HRM. A retrospective chart review was performed on FLIP panometry cases utilizing the 322N catheter. Cases with prior foregut surgeries or botulinum injection within 6 months of FLIP panometry were excluded. EGJ-diameter and distensibility index (DI) and secondary contraction patterns at increasing balloon volumes were recorded. An EGJ-DI of ≥2.8 mm2/mm Hg at 60 mL was considered as a normal EGJ distensibility. CC diagnosis, Eckhardt score, Brief Esophageal Dysphagia Questionnaire, and clinical outcomes were obtained for each FLIP case. A total of 186 cases were included. Absent contractility and achalasia types 1 and 2 showed predominantly absent secondary contraction patterns, while type 3 had a variety of secondary contractile patterns on FLIP panometry. Among 77 cases with EGJ outflow obstruction (EGJOO), 60% had a low EGJ-DI. Among those with no motility disorder or ineffective esophageal motility on HRM, 27% had a low DI and 47% had sustained contractions on FLIP, raising concern for an esophageal dysmotility process along the achalasia and/or spastic spectrum. FLIP panometry often confirmed findings on HRM in achalasia and absent contractility. FLIP panometry is useful in characterizing EGJOO cases. Spastic features on FLIP panometry may raise concern for a motility disorder on the spastic spectrum not captured by HRM. Further studies are needed on FLIP panometry to determine how to proceed with discrepancy with HRM and explore diagnoses beyond the CC.

Can subjective symptoms predict objective findings in gastroesophageal reflux disease patients?

INTRODUCTION: Medical therapy is the first-line treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease, but surgical options are available and shown to be effective when medical management fails. There is no consensus for when a surgical evaluation is indicated. We set out to determine if the GERD-HRQL questionnaire scores correlate to objective findings found in patients undergoing anti-reflux surgery to predict when surgical consultation could be warranted. METHODS: A prospectively gathered database was used for patients undergoing anti-reflux surgery from January 2014 to September 2020. Inclusion criteria required a diagnosis of GERD and comprehensive esophageal workup with the GERD-HRQL questionnaire, EGD, esophageal manometry, and ambulatory pH monitoring. Analysis of the GERD-HRQL scores was compared to objective endpoints to see correlation and predictability. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess relationship between the presence of objective findings and GERD-HRQL questionnaire scores. RESULTS: There were 246 patients meeting inclusion criteria. There was no significant correlation between GERD-HRQL score and DeMeester score (correlation coefficient = 0.23), or presence of a hiatal hernia, regardless of size (p = 0.89). Patients with esophagitis had significantly higher average GERD-HRQL scores compared to those without esophagitis (40.1 ± 18.9 vs 30.4 ± 19.1, p < 0.0001). Patients with a score of 40 or greater had a 42% to 65% probability of having esophagitis versus a score of 30 or less, lowering the chances of having esophagitis to less than 35%. CONCLUSION: Usage of a GERD-HRQL questionnaire score can potentially show the correlation between subjective and objective findings in the workup of a patient for anti-reflux surgery. Specifically, patients with a GERD-HRQL score of 40 or greater have an increased probability of esophagitis compared to those with a score of 30 or less. Using these scores can help referring clinicians identify those patients failing medical therapy and allow for prompt referral for surgical evaluation.

Safety of magnetic sphincter augmentation in patients with prior bariatric and anti-reflux surgery.

BACKGROUND: Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) has been recognized as an effective treatment option for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. The feasibility of MSA in patients with prior gastric surgery has not been well established. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of MSA in patients with prior gastric surgery including bariatric and other anti-reflux operations. METHODS: A prospectively gathered registry approved by the institutional review board for patients undergoing anti-reflux surgery was retrospectively reviewed. All patients who underwent MSA were included. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of prior gastric surgeries compared to those without. Endpoints collected include differences between the two groups in their preoperative evaluation, perioperative course, and postoperative effectiveness. RESULTS: A total of 103 patients underwent MSA where 82 patients (80%) had no prior gastric surgery and 21 patients (20%) had prior gastric surgery. The prior gastric surgery group included 10 patients with prior anti-reflux surgery, 11 patients with prior bariatric surgery. Perioperative factors were higher in the prior gastric surgery group including operating room time (135 min vs. 93 min, p = < 0.001), number of beads used (16 vs. 14, p = < 0.001), and percent of patients staying overnight (47% vs. 5%, p = < 0.001). There was no difference in several factors of their preoperative evaluation including preoperative GERD-HRQL and RSI scores, hiatal hernia presence, or DeMeester score. Post-operative GERD-HRQL and RSI scores were not different as well as patient satisfaction, patients resuming PPI use, and device explant rate. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates equivalent outcomes with integration of MSA in patients with prior gastric surgery in comparison to patients without prior gastric surgery. However, these surgeries are longer, require larger devices, and patients are more likely to stay overnight.

Factors that promote successful endoscopic management of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy leaks.

INTRODUCTION: Staple line leaks following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Endoluminal techniques, including stent placement and endoluminal vacuum therapy (EVAC), have become viable options to treat these patients without the need for additional surgery. The purpose of this study was to define the conditions where certain endoscopic therapies are most likely to succeed compared to surgery. METHODS: An IRB approved prospectively maintained database was retrospectively reviewed for all patients treated for gastrointestinal leaks from July 2013 to March 2019. All patients who were treated for gastrointestinal leaks following LSG were included. Endpoints include success of leak closure and hospital-related morbidity for the patients treated solely by endoscopic only methods (EP) compared to the additional surgery group (SP). RESULTS: There were 39 patients (33 females; 6 males) with a median age of 45.9 years. The EP group included 23 patients (59%), whereas SP included 16 patients (31%). On average, the SP had longer days from sentinel surgery to our hospital admission (70 vs 41), a higher percentage of previous bariatric surgery prior to sentinel LSG (50% vs 17%), and a higher readmission rates following discharge (50% vs 39%). Total length of stay was also higher in the SP compared to the EP (45.4 vs 11). Using this data, a treatment algorithm was developed to optimally treat future patients who suffer from gastrointestinal leaks following LSG. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic therapies, such as EVAC, stent placement, internal drainage, and over-the-scope clips, have a higher chance of success if performed earlier to their sentinel surgery and if patients have had no prior bariatric surgeries. Patients who require additional surgery tend to have longer hospital stays and readmission rates. Using the treatment algorithm provided can help determine when endoscopic therapies are likely to succeed.

Comparison of Objective Intermediate-Term Outcomes Between per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy and Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy Show Equivalence.

INTRODUCTION: The surgical gold standard for esophageal motility disorders is laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM). Per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a less invasive flexible endoscopic alternative. We compare their intermediate-term outcomes. METHODS: Data were collected on consecutive LHM and POEM patients treated for esophageal motility disorders from January 2015 to December 2019. All patients were invited for a comprehensive workup between 6 and 12 months post-myotomy including symptom evaluation, pH testing off medications, manometry, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Primary outcomes include swallowing function and development of postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). RESULTS: There were 100 patients (46 LHM and 54 POEM). Patient demographics and presenting symptoms were comparable. Follow-up data were obtained from 49% of patients. Average length of follow-up for all patients was 10 months. Mean Eckardt scores for LHM decreased from 6.6 to 2.4 (P < .05) and from 7.06 to 2.2 for POEM (P < .05). Mean integrated relaxation pressure decreased from 22.8 preoperatively to 11 postoperatively in LHM patients and from 24.6 to 11.5 in POEM patients. POEM patients had a lower incidence of objective postoperative GERD with lower average DeMeester scores (20 vs 29.4) and a higher percentage of patients with a normal DeMeester score (47% vs 31%) compared to LHM patients. However, postoperative GERD health related quality of life scores (11.7 vs 14.1), the percent of patients on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (40% vs 53%), and frequency of grade C/D esophagitis (4.3% vs 5.6%) were lower in LHM patients. CONCLUSIONS: Intermediate-term symptom resolution and esophageal physiology are improved equally with both procedures. The development of postoperative GERD is equivalent.

The role of preoperative workup in predicting dysphagia, dilation, or explantation after magnetic sphincter augmentation.

BACKGROUND: Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is a surgical treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease using a ring of titanium beads to improve the function of the lower esophageal sphincter. Prior to implantation, a comprehensive preoperative esophageal workup is required to determine patient candidacy in an effort to reduce the dysphagia, dilation, and explantation rate of the device. This study was designed to assess the best predictors for these endpoints. METHODS: A prospectively maintained IRB-approved database was retrospectively reviewed for patients undergoing MSA implantation. Patients were divided into 3 groups, those that needed no intervention, those that needed medical intervention with oral steroids for reported dysphagia, and surgical intervention, which included endoscopic dilation and/or surgical explantation. Primary endpoints included preoperative objective and subjective testing from a comprehensive esophageal workup including intraoperative notation of number of beads on the device. RESULTS: There were 99 patients eligible for the study with a mean age of 52 and mean follow-up of 10.2 months. Mean BMI was 27 and 59% were female. The no-intervention group had 59 patients, medical intervention group had 25 patients, and surgical intervention group had 15 patients. Preoperative esophageal manometry findings, pH testing off medications, endoscopic and radiologic evaluation showed no difference between the 3 groups. No differences were seen in preoperative subjective evaluations based on GERD-HRQL or RSI scores. There was no difference in average number of beads on the device between the 3 groups. CONCLUSION: A comprehensive esophageal workup is important to confirm the presence of gastroesophageal reflux disease and rule out other esophageal pathology. However, this study shows that a preoperative comprehensive esophageal workup does not predict which patients will develop dysphagia or require either medical or surgical interventions following MSA implantation.

Magnetic sphincter augmentation is an effective treatment for atypical symptoms caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to determine whether magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) could effectively treat patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) who suffer primarily from atypical symptoms due to laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). MSA has been shown to treat typical symptoms of GERD with good success, but its effect on atypical symptoms is unknown. METHODS: A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained institutional review board-approved database was conducted for all patients who underwent MSA between January 2015 and December 2018. All patients had objective confirmation of GERD from ambulatory pH monitoring off anti-reflux medications (DeMeester score > 14.7). Symptoms were assessed preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively using GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) questionnaires. RESULTS: There were 86 patients (38 males; 48 females) with a median age of 51.5 years. Total GERD HRQL scores improved from a mean of 38.79 to 6.53 (p < 0.01) and RSI scores improved from a mean of 20.9 to 8.1 (p < 0.01). Atypical symptoms evaluated from the RSI questionnaire include hoarseness, throat clearing, postnasal drip, breathing difficulties, and cough. All atypical symptoms were significantly improved at 1 year following MSA (p < 0.01). All three typical symptoms of heartburn, dysphagia, and regurgitation were significantly improved based on pre and postoperative GERD HRQL questionnaires (p < 0.02). Ninety-one percent of patients were off their PPI and dissatisfaction with their current therapy decreased from 95% preoperatively to 13% postoperatively. CONCLUSION: MSA is an effective treatment for typical and atypical GERD symptoms.

Laparoscopic versus open unisegmentectomy in two specialized centers. Feasibility and short-term results.

BACKGROUND: Anatomical segmentectomy is defined as the complete removal of the Couinaud's segment. The aim of this study was to compare the perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic (LS) versus open (OS) unisegmentectomy in two high volume centers. METHODS: A retrospective review of all consecutive unisegmentectomies from 2007 to 2017 was performed at the Institut Mutualiste Montsouris and at the Hepatobiliary Center of Paul Brousse Hospital. RESULTS: A total of 177 patients underwent unisegmentectomy: 58 LS vs 52 OS in the anterolateral segments, 33 LS vs 34 OS in the posterosuperior segments. HCC were more frequent in the OS group, whereas colorectal liver metastases were more frequently treated with LS. Blood loss (200 vs. 400 ml, p = 0.006), operative time (238 vs. 267 min, p = 0.048) and median length of stay (6 vs. 8 days, p = 0.036) were significantly lower in the LS group. The resection margins (4 mm vs. 2 mm, p = 0.763) and the overall morbidity did not differ between the two groups. In the posterosuperior segment, OS group had more pulmonary complications (9 vs. 29%, p = 0.035). CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic anatomical unisegmentectomies for selected patients, even with postero-superior based tumors, in specialized centers seems to be safe and feasible.

Endoscopic vacuum assisted wound closure (EVAC) device to treat esophageal and gastric leaks: assessing time to proficiency and cost.

BACKGROUND: Endoluminal vacuum therapy (EVAC) is an emerging procedure used to treat anastomotic leaks and/or perforations that would otherwise require surgery. The aim of this study was to determine time to proficiency in EVAC and the cost effectiveness of the procedure. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed a prospectively maintained IRB approved database for all patients undergoing EVAC after esophageal and gastric complications between October 2013 and December 2017. Proficiency was determined by obtaining predicted estimates and analyzing the point at which average procedure time plateaued based on case volume. Total cost was calculated based on supplies and location where the procedure was performed. RESULTS: There were 50 patients (17 males, 33 female), with a mean age of 52.1 years. EVAC was placed in 23 (46%) patients with esophageal injuries and 28 (56%) with gastric injuries. Two advanced endoscopists performed all EVAC procedures in this study (1 surgeon, 1 gastroenterologist). The average procedure time for all patients was 43.5 min and the average wheel in/wheel out time for all patients was 75.6 min. Analysis of the trend based on average procedure times for EVAC revealed that proficiency was obtained after 10 cases. Total cost of the procedure is significantly lower in the GI lab compared to the operating room ($4528 vs. $11889). The majority of EVAC were performed in the GI lab (62%) compared to the operating room (38%). CONCLUSION: Successful outcomes in managing anastomotic leaks or intestinal perforations non-operatively has led to an increased interest in EVAC. For advanced endoscopists, time to proficiency is approximately 10 cases. Performing the procedure in the GI lab has a 2.5 reduction in total cost compared to the operating room.

Total Laparoscopic Pancreaticoduodenectomy with Venous Reconstruction for Pancreatic Head Cancer with Involvement of the Superior Mesenteric Vein-Portal Vein Confluence.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy with venous reconstruction is not commonly performed due to its technical challenges. In this video, we focus on the technical aspects for how to perform this procedure safely. METHODS: In a 69-year-old female with jaundice and diarrhea, a computed tomography scan showed a mass in the head of the pancreas, with a 180-degree involvement of the superior mesenteric vein. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with stenting was performed together with endoscopic ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration. Biopsy showed well-differentiated adenocarcinoma. The patient underwent six cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, with reduction of the vein involvement to 90 degrees. The mass invaded the right lateral aspect of the superior mesenteric vein-portal vein confluence. As a result, this portion of the vein was removed en bloc with the specimen. The vascular defect was repaired using two running sutures. Once the choledocojejunostomy and intussuscepted pancreatico-gastric anastomosis were completed, the specimen was removed via a small subxiphoid incision. RESULTS: Operative time was 6 h and 30 min, blood loss was 50 mL, and hospital stay was 12 days. Histopathological examination was ypT3 N1 (1 of 18 lymph nodes was positive). All margins were negative. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy with vascular reconstruction can be performed safely in selected cases of pancreatic head cancer with vein involvement. Advanced laparoscopic skills are necessary to complete such procedures safely.

Clinical outcomes five years after POEM for treatment of primary esophageal motility disorders.

BACKGROUND: Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a novel operation for the treatment of achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders. While POEM has shown excellent short-term safety and efficacy, the long-term symptomatic outcomes after the procedure are unknown. METHODS: Patients from a single center that underwent POEM for treatment of esophageal motility orders and were greater than 5 years removed from their operation were studied. Patients were contacted to assess current symptoms and encouraged to undergo repeat endoscopy for objective follow-up. RESULTS: Thirty-six patients underwent POEM from October, 2010 to February, 2012 and current symptom scores were obtained from 29 patients at median 65-month follow-up. In the 23 patients with achalasia, Eckardt scores were significantly improved from preoperative baseline (mean current 1.7 vs. preoperative 6.4, p < 0.001). Nineteen patients (83%) with achalasia had a symptomatic success (Eckardt ≤3) and none required retreatment for symptoms. Eckardt scores were dramatically improved at 6 months and maintained at 2 years; however, there was a small but significant worsening of symptoms between 2 and 5-years. Of the five patients with EGJ outflow obstruction, all had current Eckardt scores ≤3 but two needed reintervention for persistent or recurrent symptoms, one with a laparoscopic Heller myotomy and another with an endoscopic cricomyotomy and proximal esophageal myotomy extension. At 6-month follow-up, repeat manometry showed decreased EGJ relaxation pressures and esophagram demonstrated improved emptying. 24-h pH monitoring showed abnormal distal esophageal acid exposure in 38% of patients. Fifteen patients underwent endoscopy at 5-years, revealing erosive esophagitis in two (13%), new hiatal hernia in two, and new non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus in one. The patient with Barrett's underwent a subsequent laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair and Toupet fundoplication. CONCLUSIONS: POEM resulted in a successful palliation of symptoms in the majority of patients after 5 years, though these results emphasize the importance of long-term follow-up in all patients.

Impedance-pH monitoring on medications does not reliably confirm the presence of gastroesophageal reflux disease in patients referred for antireflux surgery.

INTRODUCTION: The gold standard for the objective diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is ambulatory-pH monitoring off medications. Increasingly, impedance-pH (MII-pH) monitoring on medications is being used to evaluate refractory symptoms. The aim of this study was to determine whether an MII-pH test on medications can reliably detect the presence of GERD. METHODS: Patients referred for persistent reflux symptoms despite pH confirmed adequate acid suppression (DeMeester score ≤14.7) were reviewed retrospectively. All patients who originally had MII-pH testing on medications were re-evaluated with an off medication Bravo-pH study. Acid exposure results (defined by off medication Bravo) were compared to the original on medication MII-pH. RESULTS: There were 49 patients who met study criteria (median age 51). Patients had normal acid exposure during their MII-pH test on medications (average DMS 4.35). Impedance was abnormal (normal ≤47) in 25 of the 49 patients (51%). On subsequent Bravo-pH off medications, 37 patients (75.7%) showed increased esophageal acid exposure (average DMS 36.4). Bravo-pH testing was abnormal in 84% of patients with abnormal MII testing and in 67% with normal MII testing. The sensitivity and specificity of an abnormal MII-pH on medications for increased esophageal acid exposure off medications was 56.8 and 66.7%, respectively. The positive predictive value of confirming GERD from an abnormal MII-pH on medications is 84%, while the negative predictive value is 33.3%. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated and the area under the curve was 0.71, indicating that MII-pH on medications is a fair test (0.7-0.8) in diagnosing pathologic GERD. CONCLUSION: Compared to the gold standard, MII-pH on medications does not reliably confirm the presence of GERD. Excellent outcomes with antireflux surgery are dependent on the presence of GERD; thus, patients should not be offered antireflux surgery until GERD is confirmed with pH testing off medications.

Laparoscopic extended liver resection: are postoperative outcomes different?

BACKGROUND: Although laparoscopic major hepatectomy (LMH) is becoming increasingly common in specialized centers, data regarding laparoscopic extended major hepatectomies (LEMH) and their outcomes are limited. The aim of this study was to compare the perioperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes of LEMH to standard LMH. METHODS: All patients who underwent purely laparoscopic anatomical right or left hepatectomy and right or left trisectionectomy between February 1998 and January 2016 are enrolled. Demographic, clinicopathological, and perioperative factors were collected prospectively and analyzed retrospectively. Perioperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes in LEMH were compared to those of standard LMH. RESULTS: Among 195 patients with LMH, 47 (24.1%) underwent LEMH, colorectal liver metastases representing 66.7% of all indications. Preoperative portal vein embolization was undertaken in 31 (15.9%) patients. Despite more frequent vascular clamping, blood loss was higher in LEMH group (400 vs. 214 ml; p = 0.006). However, there was no difference in intraoperative transfusion requirements. Thirty-one patients experienced liver failure with no differences between LMH and LEMH groups. Postoperative mortality was comparable in the two groups [3 (2.5%) LMH patients vs. 2 (5%) LEMH patients (p = 0.388)]. Overall morbidity was higher in the LEMH group [49 LMH patients (41.5%) vs. 24 LEMH patients (60%) (p = 0.052)]. Patients treated with left LEMH experienced more biliary leakage (p = 0.011) and more major pulmonary complications (p = 0.015) than left LMH. CONCLUSION: LEMH is feasible at the price of important morbidity, with manageable and acceptable outcomes. These exigent procedures require high-volume centers with experienced surgeons.