A 4-tier Protocolized Radiological Classification System for Leaks Following Sleeve Gastrectomy.

OBJECTIVES: To develop and validate a classification of sleeve gastrectomy leaks able to reliably predict outcomes, from protocolized computed tomography (CT) findings and readily available variables. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Leaks post sleeve gastrectomy remain morbid and resource-consuming. Incidence, treatments, and outcomes are variable, representing heterogeneity of the problem. A predictive tool available at presentation would aid management and predict outcomes. METHODS: From a prospective database (2009-2018) we reviewed patients with staple line leaks. A Delphi process was undertaken on candidate variables (80-20). Correlations were performed to stratify 4 groupings based on outcomes (salvage resection, length of stay, and complications) and predictor variables. Training and validation cohorts were established by block randomization. RESULTS: A 4-tiered classification was developed based on CT appearance and duration postsurgery. Interobserver agreement was high (κ = 0.85, P < 0.001). There were 59 patients, (training: 30, validation: 29). Age 42.5 ± 10.8 versus 38.9 ± 10.0 years (P = 0.187); female 65.5% versus 80.0% (P = 0.211), weight 127.4 ± 31.3 versus 141.0 ± 47.9 kg, (P = 0.203). In the training group, there was a trend toward longer hospital stays as grading increased (I = 10.5 d; II = 24 d; III = 66.5 d; IV = 72 d; P = 0.005). Risk of salvage resection increased (risk ratio grade 4 = 9; P = 0.043) as did complication severity (P = 0.027).Findings were reproduced in the validation group: risk of salvage resection (P = 0.007), hospital stay (P = 0.001), complications (P = 0.016). CONCLUSION: We have developed and validated a classification system, based on protocolized CT imaging that predicts a step-wise increased risk of salvage resection, complication severity, and increased hospital stay. The system should aid patient management and facilitate comparisons of outcomes and efficacy of interventions.

Anastomotic leak after transanal total mesorectal excision: grading of severity and management aimed at preservation of the anastomosis.

AIM: The transanal approach to total mesorectal excision (TaTME) as an alternative to conventional anterior resection offers an improved view to otherwise restricted anatomical regions in obese and narrow male pelves and unfavourable tumour locations. Guidelines for the management of anastomotic leakage (AL) following low rectal resections are scarce. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospectively collected data of all consecutive patients undergoing TaTME between December 2014 and April 2017 in our centre were analysed retrospectively. Existing classification systems for AL were modified with regard to transanal anastomotic-preserving management. RESULTS: TaTME was performed in 66 patients with a median age of 56.2 years. The overall incidence of AL was 12.1% (n = 8). AL grading was differentiated in Grades I to V according to the severity of necrosis and abscess development. Two patients suffered from AL Grade II, one patient from Grade III, three patients from Grade IV and two patients from Grade V. Preservation of the anastomosis following AL was achieved by the damage control concept in six of eight patients (75%) with a median duration of hospital stay of 36 days. Two patients received a Hartmann procedure (Grades IV and V). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that management of AL following TaTME is challenging but definitely amenable to strategies aimed at preserving the anastomosis by appropriate damage control. The modified classification system might serve as guidance for anastomosis-preserving management.

Clinical Relevance of a Grading System for Anastomotic Leakage After Low Anterior Resection: Analysis From a National Cohort Database.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leakage is a severe complication after low anterior resection for rectal cancer. With a global increase in registration initiatives, adapting uniform definitions and grading systems is highly relevant. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to provide clinical parameters to categorize anastomotic leakage into subcategories according to the International Study Group of Rectal Cancer. DESIGN: All of the patients who underwent a low anterior resection in the Netherlands with primary anastomosis were included using the population-based Dutch Surgical Colorectal Audit. SETTINGS: Data were derived from the Dutch Surgical Colorectal Audit. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The development of grade B anastomotic leakage (requiring invasive treatment but no surgery) versus grade C anastomotic leakage (requiring reoperation) was measured. RESULTS: Overall, 4287 patients underwent low anterior resection with primary anastomosis. A total of 159 patients (4%) were diagnosed with grade B anastomotic leakage versus 259 (6%) with grade C. Hospital stay and intensive care unit visits were significantly higher in patients with grade C anastomotic leakage compared with patients with grade B leakage. Mortality in patients with grade C leakage was higher compared with grade B leakage, although nonsignificant (5.8% vs 2.5%; p = 0.12). Multivariate analysis showed that patients with diverting stomas (n = 2866) had a decreased risk of developing grade C leakage compared with grade B (OR = 0.17 (95% CI, 0.10-0.29)). Male patients had an increased risk of developing grade C anastomotic leakage, and patients receiving neoadjuvant treatment before surgery had an increased risk of developing grade B anastomotic leakage. LIMITATIONS: Some possibly relevant variables, such as smoking and nutritional status, were not recorded in the database. CONCLUSIONS: Anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection for rectal cancer was a frequent observed complication in this cohort. Differences in clinical outcome suggest that grade B and C leakage should be considered separate entities in future registrations. In patients with a diverting stoma, the chances of experiencing grade C anastomotic leakage were reduced. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A315.

Pancreatic Leaks and Fistulae: An Endoscopy-Oriented Classification.

BACKGROUND: Pancreatic leaks occur as a complication of upper gastrointestinal surgery, acute pancreatitis, or abdominal trauma. Pancreatic fistulas and leaks are primarily managed conservatively. Overall, conservative measures are successful in more than half of cases. Whenever conservative treatment is not efficient, surgery is usually considered the treatment of choice. Nowadays however, endoscopic treatment is being increasingly considered and employed in many cases, as a surgery sparing intervention. AIM: To introduce a classification of pancreatic fistulas according to the location of the leak and ductal anatomy and finally propose the best suited endoscopic method to treat the leak according to current literature. METHODS: We performed an extensive review of the literature on pancreatic fistulae and leaks. RESULTS: In this paper, we review the various types of leaks and propose a novel endoscopic classification of pancreatic fistulas in order to standardize and improve endoscopic treatment. CONCLUSIONS: A proper and precise diagnosis should be made before embarking on endoscopic treatment for pancreatic leaks in order to obtain prime therapeutic results. A multidisciplinary team of interventional endoscopists, pancreatic surgeons, and interventional radiologists is best suited to care for these patients.

Clinical characteristics of anastomotic leakage after an anterior resection for rectal cancer by assessing of the international classification on anastomotic leakage.

PURPOSE: The International Study Group of Rectal Cancer (ISREC) has proposed a new definition of anastomotic leakage (AL) which was simply classified into three grades; however, these criteria have not been assessed well. The aims of this study are to assess the new definition and to show the clinical features of AL after an anterior resection for rectal cancer. METHODS: Fifty consecutive patients developed AL after an anterior resection for rectal cancer was retrospectively assessed. AL was defined by the ISREC criteria. RESULTS: Twenty-seven (54 %) patients with AL were diagnosed by drain contents. The postoperative day of diagnosis for AL was later in grade A versus grades B and C (p = 0.038 vs p = 0.006, respectively). Permanent stoma (PS) was significantly more frequent in patients with grade C but not grade B compared to the patients with no AL (p < 0.001 and p = 0.171, respectively). In patients without diverting stoma, there was more serious grade of AL (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Differences were observed in the postoperative day of diagnosis, the creation rate of PS, and impact on diverting stoma after AL between each grade of leakage. The new classification was easy and reasonable to evaluate AL. As a result, it should be widely used in future studies.

Clinical Application of Six Current Classification Systems for Iatrogenic Bile Duct Injuries after Cholecystectomy.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Due to being a severe complication, iatrogenic bile duct injury is still a challenging issue for surgeons in gallbladder surgery. However, a commonly accepted classification describing the type of injury has not been available yet. This study aims to evaluate ability of six current classification systems to discriminate bile duct injury patterns. METHODOLOGY: Twelve patients, who were referred to our clinic because of iatrogenic bile duct injury after laparoscopic cholecystectomy were reviewed retrospectively. We described type of injury for each patient according to current six different classifications. RESULTS: 9 patients underwent definitive biliary reconstruction. Bismuth, Strasberg-Bismuth, Stewart-Way and Neuhaus classifications do not consider vascular involvement, Siewert system does, but only for the tangential lesions without structural loss of duct and lesion with a structural defect of hepatic or common bile duct. Siewert, Neuhaus and Stewart-Way systems do not discriminate between lesions at or above bifurcation of the hepatic duct. CONCLUSION: The Hannover classification may resolve the missing aspects of other systems by describing additional vascular involvement and location of the lesion at or above bifurcation.

Prospective evaluation of the International Study Group for Liver Surgery definition of bile leak after a liver resection and the role of routine operative drainage: an international multicentre study.

BACKGROUND: The International Study Group for Liver Surgery (ISGLS) proposed a definition for bile leak after liver surgery. A multicentre international prospective study was designed to evaluate this definition. METHODS: Data collected prospectively from 949 consecutive patients on specific datasheets from 11 international centres were collated centrally. RESULTS: Bile leak occurred in 69 (7.3%) of patients, with 31 (3.3%), 32 (3.4%) and 6 (0.6%) classified as grade A, B and C, respectively. The grading system of severity correlated with the Dindo complication classification system (P < 0.001). Hospital length of stay was increased when bile leak occurred, from a median of 7 to 15 days (P < 0.001), as was intensive care stay (P < 0.001), and both correlated with increased severity grading of bile leak (P < 0.001). 96% of bile leaks occurred in patients with intra-operative drains. Drain placement did not prevent subsequent intervention in the bile leak group with a 5-15 times greater risk of intervention required in this group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The ISGLS definition of bile leak after liver surgery appears robust and intra-operative drain usage did not prevent the need for subsequent drain placement.

American Society of Anesthesiologists class and Charlson's comorbidity index as predictors of postoperative colorectal anastomotic leak: a single-institution experience.

BACKGROUND: The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) was adopted to assess patients' physical condition before surgery. Studies suggest that ASA score and CCI might be a prognostic criterion (indicator) for patient outcome. The aim of this study is to determine if ASA classification and CCI can determine the risk of anastomotic leaks (AL) in patients who underwent colorectal surgery. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 505 consecutive colorectal resections with primary anastomoses between 2008 and 2012 was performed at a university hospital. ASA score, CCI, surgical procedure, length of stay, age, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: Two hundred sixty-five patients had an ASA score of I and II, 227 patients had an ASA score of III, and 13 patients had an ASA score of IV. A total of 19 patients had an anastomotic leak (ASA I-II: 5 patients, 1.9%; ASA III: 12 patients, 5.58%; ASA IV: 2 patients, 18.18%). A higher ASA score was significantly associated with AL on further analysis (OR: 2.99, 95% CI: 1.345-6.670, P = 0.007). When matched for age, BMI, and CCI on logistic regression analysis, increased ASA level was independently related to an increased likelihood of leak (OR(steroids) = 14.35, P < 0.01; OR(ASA_III v I-II) = 2.02, P = 0.18; OR(ASA_IVvI-II) = 8.45, P = 0.03). There were no statistically significant differences in means between the leak and no-leak patients with respect to age (60.69 versus 65.43, P = 0.17), BMI (28.03 versus 28.96, P = 0.46), and CCI (6.19 versus 7.58, P = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS: ASA score, but not CCI, is independently associated with anastomotic leak. Patients with a high ASA class should be closely followed postoperatively for AL after colorectal operations.

Managing leaks following anterior resections: a new classification system.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Anastomotic leak rates following rectal resections and anastomosis stand at 2.9-15.3%, with an attendant mortality rate of 6- 39.3%. The aim of our study was to identify those patients who had developed an anastomotic leak, and evaluate the indications for re-exploration as well as study the impact of covering colostomies on the subsequent outcome. METHODOLOGY: We analyzed 266 consecutive anterior resections for rectal cancer performed at a single institution between 1st September 2002 and 31st December 2006. RESULTS: Twenty-one anastomotic leaks were encountered in 266 resections. Covering colostomies were performed in 56% (151/266) of the patients. Out of the 21 patients who developed a leak, 9 had a covering colostomy (42.8%). In this group, 3 of patients (33%) could be managed without surgical re-exploration, while all the 12 patients without a covering colostomy had to undergo a reexploration. With our new classification system for anastomotic dehiscence, the clinical decisions appear to follow a predictable pattern. There were 4 deaths (1.5%). However, the mortality rate in the patients undergoing surgical re-exploration for complications was 16.6% (3/18). CONCLUSIONS: This large study provides an insight into the potential advantages of covering colostomies wherever indicated following anterior resections. With our new and effective classification system for clinical leaks, the management road map can be simplified and standardized.

[Anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery: classification and management].

Many studies have focused on the identification of risk factors and prevention of anastomotic leakage following rectal cancer surgery. However, there is little knowledge regarding classification and management of anastomotic leakage in clinic. Herein, we reviewed and summarized the classification and management of anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer surgery. The relevant treatments of anastomotic leakage should be chosen based on patient's manifestation, including general and local reactions, anatomical location, and nature of the leakage (contained or free, controlled or uncontrolled leakage). 1) Surgery is imperative for anastomotic leakage with acute general peritonitis and sepsis. 2) Circumscribed peritonitis and the pelvic abscess can be managed conservatively with complete drainage. During the conservative management, diverting stoma, minimally invasive techniques of seal or repair should be implemented at an appropriate time, if necessary. 3) Subclinical leakage seldom requires surgical intervention promptly. 4) For persistent anastomotic leakage after diverting stoma, we should consider whether chronic presacral abscess, epithelialized sinus, fistula or local recurrence of cancer is present. With regard to definitive salvage surgery, reconstruction of the coloanal anastomosis or permanent stoma is usually required under these circumstances. 5)Complicated fistula often necessitates surgical repair with advancement tissue flap or tissue interposition under the condition of diversion. Reconstructing the coloanal anastomosis is the alternative management, whereas other treatments are invalid, including ultra-low anterior resection, intersphincteric resection, proctectomy with colon pull-through, and primary or staged coloanal anastomosis. 6) During the surgical repair of recto-vaginal fistula and recto-urinary fistula, colorectal surgeons may require the cooperation of gynecologists, urologists, and orthopedists. 7) For anastomotic leakage with local recurrence of cancer after conservative management, diverting stoma should be performed promptly to facilitate the subsequent chemoradiotherapy. Surgeons should pay more attention to systemic knowledge and understanding of the classification and management of anastomotic leakage following rectal cancer surgery. Accordingly, we can follow the principles of management, individualize the treatments, apply the concepts of damage control and minimally invasive surgery, and enhance the recovery of anastomotic leakage. Prevention remains more important than remedies. To prevent the occurrence of permanent injuries, not only early diagnoses and treatments should be performed, but also the timing of cancer treatments is warranted for anastomotic leakage.

Definition and classification of chyle leak after pancreatic operation: A consensus statement by the International Study Group on Pancreatic Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Recent literature suggests that chyle leak may complicate up to 10% of pancreatic resections. Treatment depends on its severity, which may include chylous ascites. No international consensus definition or grading system of chyle leak currently is available. METHODS: The International Study Group on Pancreatic Surgery, an international panel of pancreatic surgeons working in well-known, high-volume centers, reviewed the literature and worked together to establish a consensus on the definition and classification of chyle leak after pancreatic operation. RESULTS: Chyle leak was defined as output of milky-colored fluid from a drain, drain site, or wound on or after postoperative day 3, with a triglyceride content ≥110 mg/dL (≥1.2 mmol/L). Three different grades of severity were defined according to the management needed: grade A, no specific intervention other than oral dietary restrictions; grade B, prolongation of hospital stay, nasoenteral nutrition with dietary restriction, total parenteral nutrition, octreotide, maintenance of surgical drains, or placement of new percutaneous drains; and grade C, need for other more invasive in-hospital treatment, intensive care unit admission, or mortality. CONCLUSION: This classification and grading system for chyle leak after pancreatic resection allows for comparison of outcomes between series. As with the other the International Study Group on Pancreatic Surgery consensus statements, this classification should facilitate communication and evaluation of different approaches to the prevention and treatment of this complication.

Clinical manifestations and risk factors of anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection for rectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leakage is a common complication that can be associated with catastrophic consequences. However, the risk factors and incidence of anastomotic leakage vary considerably among clinical studies because of the lack of a standardized definition, clinical course and appropriate treatment options. The aim of this study was to identify and classify the clinical manifestations and treatment of anastomotic leakage and analyse the possible risk factors after low anterior resection. METHODS: From January 2009 to June 2010, 632 patients underwent low anterior resection for primary colorectal cancer at Samsung Medical Center. Patients with only one colorectal anastomosis were included from this prospectively collected medical database. RESULTS: The overall leakage rate was 6.0% (n = 38). In cases of generalized leakage, the patients that selected surgical management, regardless of having protective enterostomy and time of occurrence, had better outcomes. Protective enterostomy did not have a preventive effect and was not associated with a lower rate of anastomotic leakage. However, protective enterostomy confined the inflammation to only the pelvic cavity (P = 0.045) and no surgical intervention was initially needed. Male gender (P = 0.021, relative risk (RR) = 2.680, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.164-6.171) and side-to-end/J pouch-to-end anastomosis (P = 0.012, RR = 2.696, 95% CI = 1.249-5.818) were significant risk factors that affected anastomotic leakage. CONCLUSION: Surgical management is the best choice for generalized leakage. A protective enterostomy diminished the occurrence of generalized leakage and consequent surgical management; therefore, fragile patients at high risk for anastomotic leakage are recommended to undergo protective enterostomy.

Classification of esophageal stent leaks: leak presentation, complications, and management.

BACKGROUND: Esophageal stent leaks can have catastrophic consequences if not promptly recognized and managed appropriately. However, there are different mechanisms for esophageal stent leaks that may demonstrate unique features in presentation and response to management strategy. The objective of this study was to develop a classification system for esophageal leaks and assess distinctions between leak types. METHODS: Patients with esophageal stent leaks from 2007 to 2010 managed at The Methodist Hospital were classified into the following 5 leak types: type 1, proximal; 2, distal retrograde; 3, stent lining; 4, between stents; and 5, migrated stent. Patients' baseline characteristics, procedural data, and outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: Of the 89 patients who underwent esophageal stenting, 23 stent leaks were identified after the first procedure. Mean age was 57±14 years, 61% were male, 43% had esophageal cancer, and 52% were status postesophagectomy. Seven of the leaks were type 1, 6 were type 2, 2 were type 3, 4 were type 4, and were type 5. The vast majority (70%) of leaks were detected within the first 48 hours. The management of leaks varied significantly depending on the leak type (p<0.001) and included additional stenting, placement of a larger stent, bridle, percutaneous gastrostomy, stent exchange, observation, and surgery. The majority of leaks (65%) ultimately resolved. Survival according to leak type was not different (p=0.072). CONCLUSIONS: Esophageal leaks tend to be managed differently depending on leak type. The majority of leaks ultimately resolve with stenting. Our proposed leak classification may enhance esophageal stent management strategy.

Complications associated with extraperitoneal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy using the standardized Martin classification.

OBJECTIVE: To report and identify the predictors of early and long-term complications in a large series of extraperitoneal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy using the standardized Martin criteria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 1503 patients underwent extraperitoneal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy for the treatment of clinically localized prostate cancer from July 2003 to August 2010 at a tertiary referral center. The median follow-up was 28.9 months. Fisher's exact test was used to examine the association of multiple variables in a bivariate analysis with the incidence and types of complications. Independent predictors were also examined in a multivariate analysis using logistic regression models. RESULTS: A total of 151 complications were recorded in 127 of 1503 patients (8.45%). Approximately one third (30.5%) were classified as major complications requiring intervention (Clavien grade III and IV). The most commonly encountered complications were lymphocele (1.46%), bladder neck contracture (1.33%), and anastomotic leak (1.20%). The operative time was a significant predictor of all complications and of major complications on multivariate analysis. Surgeon experience was also predictive of complications on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: Extraperitoneal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy remains an underused alternative approach for the treatment of localized prostate cancer. Its safety profile is equivalent to that of other approaches in experienced hands.

Validation of the International Study Group of Rectal Cancer definition and severity grading of anastomotic leakage.

BACKGROUND: The International Study Group of Rectal Cancer (ISREC) has proposed a generally applicable definition and severity grading of (AL) after sphincter-preserving resection of the rectum. This work has been carried out to test for validity. METHODS: A total of 746 patients who were identified from a prospective rectal cancer database underwent sphincter-preserving anterior resection of the rectum between October 2001 and January 2011. The incidence and severity of AL was determined using the criteria established by the ISREC. Patients with AL were categorized according to the ISREC scheme. The clinical outcomes were analyzed and compared between the groups. RESULTS: The overall AL rate was 7.5% (56/746). The 56 patients with AL were distributed among the different groups as follows: Grade A, 16%; grade B, 23%; and grade C, 61%. Compared with the grade A patients, grades B and C patients had significantly elevated serum C-reactive protein levels (P < .01). None of the grade A patients were transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU). Their further hospital stay was uneventful. The length of stay in the ICU was significantly longer for grade C patients compared with grade B patients (P < .001). The median hospital stay of grade C patients was significantly longer than that of grades A and B patients (P < .001). CONCLUSION: The definition and severity grading of AL after anterior resection of the rectum proposed by the ISREC provides a simple, easily applicable, and valid classification. Using this classification system may facilitate comparison of results from different studies on AL after sphincter-preserving rectal surgery.

Defining treatment and outcomes of hepaticojejunostomy failure following pancreaticoduodenectomy.

BACKGROUND: The overall complication rate after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) approaches 50 %, with anastomotic failure being the most frequent cause of serious postoperative morbidity. Hepaticojejunostomy leaks (also called bile leaks) are the second most common type of leak, behind pancreaticojejunostomy leaks, yet have been the focus of only a single study as reported by Suzuki et al. (Hepatogastroenterology 50:254-257, 12). METHODS: We reviewed the recent experience with bile leaks at a single, high-volume pancreatic surgery center over a six-year time period. RESULTS: Bile leaks were identified in 16 out of 715 patients (2.2 %). Low preoperative albumin was associated with an increased risk. Bile leaks typically manifested within the first week after surgery as bilious drainage in a surgically placed drain. Associated warning signs included fever and leukocytosis. Patients with a bile leak frequently developed other complications, including a pancreatic fistula, wound infection, delayed gastric emptying, and sepsis. The impact on perioperative outcomes was comparable to patients with a pancreatic leak. A grading system is proposed based on the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula model. Grade A bile leaks were classified as those managed with prolonged drainage by operatively placed drains, grade B bile leaks with percutaneous abdominal drainage, and grade C bile leaks with insertion of a percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage. CONCLUSIONS: Hepaticojejunostomy leaks are rare after PD. The complication severity ranges from trivial to life threatening and is comparable overall to pancreaticojejunostomy leaks. Surgical intervention is rarely, if ever, required. With prompt and aggressive management, a full recovery can be expected.