Peri-operative, oncological and functional outcomes of robotic versus transanal total mesorectal excision in patients with rectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Comparative outcomes of robotic low anterior resection (rTME) and trans-anal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) in patients with low rectal cancer were evaluated. METHODS: A systematic online search was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane database, The Virtual Health Library, Clinical trials.gov and Science Direct. Comparative studies of rTME versus TaTME for low rectal cancer were included. Primary outcomes were postoperative complications, including anastomotic leak, surgical site infection, and Clavien-Dindo complication rate. Total operative time, conversion to open surgery, intra-operative blood loss, intensive therapy unit (ITU) and total hospital length of stay (LOS), oncological outcomes and functional outcomes were the other evaluated outcome parameters. RESULTS: A total of 12 studies with a total number of 3025 patients divided between rTME (n = 1881) and TaTME (n = 1144) groups were included. There was no significant difference between the two groups for total operative time (P = 0.39), conversion to open surgery (P = 0.29) and intra-operative blood loss (P = 0.62). Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3 complication rate (P = 0.47), anastomotic leak (P = 0.89), rates of re-operation (P = 0.62) and re-admission (P = 0.92), R0 resections (P = 0.52), ITU LOS (P = 0.63) and total hospital LOS (P = 0.30) also showed similar results between the two groups. However, the rTME group had higher rates of total harvested lymph nodes (P = 0.04) and complete total mesorectal excision (TME) resections (P = 0.05). Albeit with a limited dataset, the Wexner and low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) scores showed better functional results in the rTME group compared with the TaTME group (P = 0.0009 and P = 0.00001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Compared with TaTME, rTME seems to provide better functional outcomes, higher lymph node yield and more complete TME resections with a similar post-operative complications profile.

Fully robotic side-to-side stapled anastomosis provides less anastomotic leakage than conventional minimally invasive approach in Ivor Lewis esophagectomy.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluates surgical outcomes of minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (ILE) for esophageal and esophagogastric cancer, with the comparison of the robotic approach (RA) and the conventional minimally invasive approach (CA). METHODS: Selected patients who underwent minimally invasive ILE for esophageal cancer were included between January 2017 and December 2023. We retrospectively investigated the patients' background characteristics and the short-term surgical outcomes. RESULTS: In this period, among a total of 840 esophagectomies, 81 patients (9.6%) underwent minimally invasive ILE, consisting of 24 cases with RA and 57 with CA. The major indications for ILE were adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus or esophagogastric junction and patients with prior head and neck cancer treatment. Among these thoracic approaches, there were no significant differences in the patients' indications and characteristics, including age, histology, tumor location, clinical TNM stage, and preoperative therapy. Compared with the CA group, no anastomotic leakage was observed in the RA group (17.5% vs. 0, p = .035). Rates of total postoperative complications and length of hospital stay also tended to be reduced in the RA group but did not reach significance. CONCLUSION: In the Ivor Lewis esophagectomy with a side-to-side linear-stapled anastomosis, the fully robotic approach has the potential to powerfully reduce anastomotic leakage compared to the conventional minimally invasive approach.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of short-term outcomes: robot-assisted versus laparoscopic surgery for gastric cancer patients with visceral obesity.

The objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the comparative efficacy of robot-assisted and laparoscopic surgery in treating gastric cancer among patients characterized by a high visceral fat area (VFA). In April 2024, we conducted a comprehensive literature review using major international databases, such as PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar. We restricted our selection to articles written in English, excluding reviews, protocols without published data, conference abstracts, and irrelevant content. Our analysis focused on continuous data using 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and standard mean differences (SMDs), while dichotomous data were assessed with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs. We set the threshold for statistical significance at P < 0.05. Data extraction included baseline characteristics, primary outcomes (such as operative time, major complications, lymph node yield, and anastomotic leakage), and secondary outcomes. The meta-analysis included three cohort studies totaling 970 patients. The robotic-assisted group demonstrated a significantly longer operative time compared to the laparoscopic group, with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of - 55.76 min (95% CI - 74.03 to - 37.50; P < 0.00001). This group also showed a reduction in major complications, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.48 (95% CI 1.09-5.66; P = 0.03) and fewer occurrences of abdominal infections (OR 3.17, 95% CI 1.41-7.14; P = 0.005), abdominal abscesses (OR 3.83, 95% CI 1.53-9.57; P = 0.004), anastomotic leaks (OR 4.09, 95% CI 1.73-9.65; P = 0.001), and pancreatic leaks (OR 8.93, 95% CI 2.33-34.13; P = 0.001). However, no significant differences were observed between the groups regarding length of hospital stay, overall complications, estimated blood loss, or lymph node yield. Based on our findings, robot-assisted gastric cancer surgery in obese patients with visceral fat appears to be correlated with fewer major complications compared to laparoscopic surgery, while maintaining similar outcomes in other surgical aspects. However, it is important to note that robot-assisted procedures do tend to have longer operative times.

Turnbull-Cutait pull-through coloanal anastomosis versus standard coloanal anastomosis plus diverting ileostomy for low anterior resection: a meta-analysis and systematic review.

PURPOSE: Coloanal anastomosis with loop diverting ileostomy (CAA) is an option for low anterior resection of the rectum, and Turnbull-Cutait coloanal anastomosis (TCA) regained popularity in the effort to offer patients a reconstructive option. In this context, we aimed to compare both techniques. METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus were searched for studies published until January 2024. Odds ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled with a random-effects model. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics, with p-values inferior to 0.10 and I2 >25% considered significant. Statistical analysis was conducted in RStudio version 4.1.2 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing). Registered number CRD42024509963. RESULTS: One randomized controlled trial and nine observational studies were included, comprising 1,743 patients, of whom 899 (51.5%) were submitted to TCA and 844 (48.5%) to CAA. Most patients had rectal cancer (52.2%), followed by megacolon secondary to Chagas disease (32.5%). TCA was associated with increased colon ischemia (OR 3.54; 95% CI 1.13 to 11.14; p < 0.031; I2 = 0%). There were no differences in postoperative complications classified as Clavien-Dindo ≥ IIIb, anastomotic leak, pelvic abscess, intestinal obstruction, bleeding, permanent stoma, or anastomotic stricture. In subgroup analysis of patients with cancer, TCA was associated with a reduction in anastomotic leak (OR 0.55; 95% CI 0.31 to 0.97 p = 0.04; I2 = 34%). CONCLUSION: TCA was associated with a decrease in anastomotic leak rate in subgroups analysis of patients with cancer.

Role of body mass index in anastomotic leakage after curative treatment for rectal cancer.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leakage (AL) represents a severe complication after rectal surgery, leading to significant morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Despite improvements in surgical methods and perioperative care, the challenge of AL persists. OBJECTIVES: Explore the impact of body mass index (BMI) on the risk of AL following curative treatment for rectal cancer, providing insight into its predictive value. DESIGN: Retrospective review. SETTINGS: Data were collected from a single tertiary center, emphasizing the specialized postoperative outcomes in a high-care setting. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study population was comprised patients who underwent sphincter-saving surgery combined with neoadjuvant chemoradiation for rectal cancer from 2001 to 2011. Patients with anastomotic stenosis were excluded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome investigated was the occurrence of AL post-surgery. Secondary outcomes included the assessment of local cancer recurrence rates within the AL group. SAMPLE SIZE: 224; 13 excluded. RESULTS: Of 237 patients who underwent surgery, 13 with anastomotic stenosis were excluded from this study. Of the remaining 224, 15 individuals (6.3%) developed AL. A potential association between higher BMI and increased AL risk was identified. Additionally, the study noted a higher incidence of local rectal cancer recurrence in the group that developed leakage. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest BMI as a significant predictive factor for AL after curative rectal cancer treatment. This emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and possible preoperative counseling for obese patients regarding their increased risk of postoperative leakage. LIMITATIONS: The study was retrospective with all the inherit biases of such studies. The sample size was small and this may have introduced a type 2 statistical error.

Total mesorectal excision in MRI-defined low rectal cancer: multicentre study comparing oncological outcomes of robotic, laparoscopic and transanal total mesorectal excision in high-volume centres.

BACKGROUND: The routine use of MRI in rectal cancer treatment allows the use of a strict definition for low rectal cancer. This study aimed to compare minimally invasive total mesorectal excision in MRI-defined low rectal cancer in expert laparoscopic, transanal and robotic high-volume centres. METHODS: All MRI-defined low rectal cancer operated on between 2015 and 2017 in 11 Dutch centres were included. Primary outcomes were: R1 rate, total mesorectal excision quality and 3-year local recurrence and survivals (overall and disease free). Secondary outcomes included conversion rate, complications and whether there was a perioperative change in the preoperative treatment plan. RESULTS: Of 1071 eligible rectal cancers, 633 patients with low rectal cancer were identified. Quality of the total mesorectal excision specimen (P = 0.337), R1 rate (P = 0.107), conversion (P = 0.344), anastomotic leakage rate (P = 0.942), local recurrence (P = 0.809), overall survival (P = 0.436) and disease-free survival (P = 0.347) were comparable among the centres. The laparoscopic centre group had the highest rate of perioperative change in the preoperative treatment plan (10.4%), compared with robotic expert centres (5.2%) and transanal centres (2.1%), P = 0.004. The main reason for this change was stapling difficulty (43%), followed by low tumour location (29%). Multivariable analysis showed that laparoscopic surgery was the only independent risk factor for a change in the preoperative planned procedure, P = 0.024. CONCLUSION: Centres with expertise in all three minimally invasive total mesorectal excision techniques can achieve good oncological resection in the treatment of MRI-defined low rectal cancer. However, compared with robotic expert centres and transanal centres, patients treated in laparoscopic centres have an increased risk of a change in the preoperative intended procedure due to technical limitations.

Preoperative risk factors for anastomotic leak after esophagectomy with gastric reconstruction: A 6-year national surgical quality improvement (NSQIP) database analysis.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leak is a serious complication after esophagectomy that has been associated with worse outcomes. However, identifying patients at increased risk for anastomotic leak remains challenging. METHODS: Patients were included from the 2016 to 2021 National Surgical Quality Improvement Project database who underwent elective esophagectomy with gastric reconstruction for cancer. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors associated with anastomotic leak. RESULTS: A total of 4,331 patients were included in the study, of whom 647 patients experienced anastomotic leak (14.9%). Multivariable logistic regression revealed higher odds of anastomotic leak with smoking (adjusted odds ratio 1.24, confidence interval 1.02-1.51, P = .031), modified frailty index-5 score of 1 (adjusted odds ratio 1.44, confidence interval 1.19-1.75, P = .002) or 2 (adjusted odds ratio 1.52, confidence interval 1.19-1.94, P = .000), and a McKeown esophagectomy (adjusted odds ratio 1.44, confidence interval 1.16-1.80, P = .001). Each 1,000/µL increase in white blood cell count was associated with a 7% increase in odds of anastomotic leak (adjusted odds ratio 1.07, confidence interval 1.03-1.10, P = .0005). Higher platelet counts were slightly protective, and each 10,000/ µL increase in platelet count was associated with 2% reduced odds of anastomotic leak (adjusted odds ratio 0.98, confidence interval 0.97-0.99, P = .001). CONCLUSION: In this study, smoking status, frailty index, white blood cell count, McKeown esophagectomy, and platelet counts were all associated with the occurrence of anastomotic leak. These results can help to inform surgeons and patients of the true risk of developing anastomotic leak and potentially improve outcomes by providing evidence to improve preoperative characteristics, such as frailty.

Machine learning-based preoperative analytics for the prediction of anastomotic leakage in colorectal surgery: a swiss pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leakage (AL), a severe complication following colorectal surgery, arises from defects at the anastomosis site. This study evaluates the feasibility of predicting AL using machine learning (ML) algorithms based on preoperative data. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed data including 21 predictors from patients undergoing colorectal surgery with bowel anastomosis at four Swiss hospitals. Several ML algorithms were applied for binary classification into AL or non-AL groups, utilizing a five-fold cross-validation strategy with a 90% training and 10% validation split. Additionally, a holdout test set from an external hospital was employed to assess the models' robustness in external validation. RESULTS: Among 1244 patients, 112 (9.0%) suffered from AL. The Random Forest model showed an AUC-ROC of 0.78 (SD: ± 0.01) on the internal test set, which significantly decreased to 0.60 (SD: ± 0.05) on the external holdout test set comprising 198 patients, including 7 (3.5%) with AL. Conversely, the Logistic Regression model demonstrated more consistent AUC-ROC values of 0.69 (SD: ± 0.01) on the internal set and 0.61 (SD: ± 0.05) on the external set. Accuracy measures for Random Forest were 0.82 (SD: ± 0.04) internally and 0.87 (SD: ± 0.08) externally, while Logistic Regression achieved accuracies of 0.81 (SD: ± 0.10) and 0.88 (SD: ± 0.15). F1 Scores for Random Forest moved from 0.58 (SD: ± 0.03) internally to 0.51 (SD: ± 0.03) externally, with Logistic Regression maintaining more stable scores of 0.53 (SD: ± 0.04) and 0.51 (SD: ± 0.02). CONCLUSION: In this pilot study, we evaluated ML-based prediction models for AL post-colorectal surgery and identified ten patient-related risk factors associated with AL. Highlighting the need for multicenter data, external validation, and larger sample sizes, our findings emphasize the potential of ML in enhancing surgical outcomes and inform future development of a web-based application for broader clinical use.

A real-world study was conducted to develop a nomogram that predicts the occurrence of anastomotic leakage in patients with esophageal cancer following esophagectomy.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of anastomotic leakage (AL) following esophagectomy is regarded as a noteworthy complication. There is a need for biomarkers to facilitate early diagnosis of AL in high-risk esophageal cancer (EC) patients, thereby minimizing its morbidity and mortality. We assessed the predictive abilities of inflammatory biomarkers for AL in patients after esophagectomy. METHODS: In order to ascertain the predictive efficacy of biomarkers for AL, Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were generated. Furthermore, univariate, LASSO, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to discern the risk factors associated with AL. Based on these identified risk factors, a diagnostic nomogram model was formulated and subsequently assessed for its predictive performance. RESULTS: Among the 438 patients diagnosed with EC, a total of 25 patients encountered AL. Notably, elevated levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin (PCT) were observed in the AL group as compared to the non-AL group, demonstrating statistical significance. Particularly, IL-6 exhibited the highest predictive capacity for early postoperative AL, exhibiting a sensitivity of 92.00% and specificity of 61.02% at a cut-off value of 132.13 pg/ml. Univariate, LASSO, and multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that fasting blood glucose ≥7.0mmol/L and heightened levels of IL-10, IL-6, CRP, and PCT were associated with an augmented risk of AL. Consequently, a nomogram model was formulated based on the results of multivariate logistic analyses. The diagnostic nomogram model displayed a robust discriminatory ability in predicting AL, as indicated by a C-Index value of 0.940. Moreover, the decision curve analysis provided further evidence supporting the clinical utility of this diagnostic nomogram model. CONCLUSIONS: This predictive instrument can serve as a valuable resource for clinicians, empowering them to make informed clinical judgments aimed at averting the onset of AL.

Long-Term Outcomes of Patients with Staple Line Leaks Following Sleeve Gastrectomy.

PURPOSE: The long-term outcomes of patients with staple line leaks (SLL) after SG are under-reported. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the long-term outcomes of patients with SLL after SG. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of a maintained patient registry of patients undergoing SG between January 2012 and December 2020 in a single bariatric center was analyzed and included patients with SLL. Outcomes were compared to a group without SLL. RESULTS: During this period, 1985 patients underwent SG of which 61 patients (3.1%) developed leak. 26 patients (1.3%) had overt SLL and the rest had organ space infection around the staple line. The mean age and body mass index (BMI) were 39.8 ± 11.3 and 41.5 ± 4.7, respectively. 7 patients (11.4%) underwent concomitant surgery and 12 patients (19.7%) had intraoperative complications. Leak was complicated by Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3 in 31 patients (50.8%). Reoperation rate was 27.8% (n = 17). ≥ 2 interventions were required in 26% of patients (n = 16). Two patients died during hospitalization due to septic complications. Long-term follow-up of median 121 months was available in 78% of the cohort (n = 48). The median total weight loss and BMI were 27% and 30.1 kg/m2, respectively. Weight loss outcomes were higher in comparison to patients without SLL. Seven patients (14.6%) underwent SG revision. All associated medical problems improved during follow-up except for gastroesophageal reflux which was found in 50% of cohort. CONCLUSION: Long-term outcomes of SG patients with SLL are satisfactory in terms of weight loss, resolution of comorbidities, and requirement for surgical revision.

Multicenter study on the incidence and treatment of mediastinal leaks after esophagectomy (MuMeLe 2).

BACKGROUND: Management of mediastinal anastomotic leaks (MALs) after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy includes conservative, endoscopic, or surgical management. Endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVAC) is becoming a routine approach for MALs, although the outcomes have not been defined. This study aimed to describe the incidence, treatment, and outcomes of MALs in patients who underwent esophagectomy in 3 Italian high-volume centers that routinely use EVAC for MAL. METHODS: Patients who underwent Ivor Lewis esophagectomy between September 2018 and March 2023 were included. RESULTS: A total of 681 patients underwent Ivor Lewis esophagectomy, of whom 88 had MAL. The MAL rates for open, minimally invasive, and robotic esophagectomies were 11.5%, 13.4%, and 14.8%, respectively. Global and specific 30- and 90-day mortality rates for MAL were 0.9% and 2.1% and 6.8% and 15.9%, respectively. Nonoperative management (NOM) as the primary treatment was chosen for 62 patients. EVAC was the most common NOM (62.9%), and the most common operative management (OM) was anastomotic redo (53.8%). Diversion was the OM for 7 patients, of whom 3 patients died. Primary treatment proved successful in 40 patients. Among them, EVAC alone was successful in 35.9% of patients. Globally, endoscopic treatment, including EVAC, was successful in 79.0% of NOM and 55.7% of MALs. NOM and OM were chosen as secondary treatments for 27 and 10 patients, respectively. Secondary treatment proved successful in 21 patients. CONCLUSION: The incidence of MALs after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy is approximately 13%. Endoscopic techniques have a success rate of almost 80%, with EVAC representing a significant part of this treatment process.

Controversies in IPAA for Ulcerative Colitis: A Systematic Review of Different Anastomotic Techniques.

BACKGROUND: Available techniques for IPAA in ulcerative colitis include handsewn, double-stapled, and single-stapled anastomoses. There are controversies, indications, and different outcomes regarding these techniques. OBJECTIVE: To describe technical details, indications, and outcomes of 3 specific types of anastomoses in restorative proctocolectomy. DATA SOURCE: Systematic literature review for articles in the PubMed database according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria. STUDY SELECTION: Studies describing outcomes of the 3 different types of anastomoses, during pouch surgery, in patients undergoing restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis. INTERVENTION: IPAA technique. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Postoperative outcomes (anastomotic leaks, overall complication rates, and pouch function). RESULTS: Twenty-one studies were initially included: 6 studies exclusively on single-stapled IPAA, 2 exclusively on double-stapled IPAA, 6 studies comparing single-stapled to double-stapled techniques, 6 comparing double-stapled to handsewn IPAA, and 1 comprising single-stapled to handsewn IPAA. Thirty-seven studies were added according to authors' discretion as complementary evidence. Between 1990 and 2015, most studies were related to double-stapled IPAA, either only analyzing the results of this technique or comparing it with the handsewn technique. Studies published after 2015 were mostly related to transanal approaches to proctectomy for IPAA, in which a single-stapled anastomosis was introduced instead of the double-stapled anastomosis, with some studies comparing both techniques. LIMITATIONS: A low number of studies with handsewn IPAA technique and a large number of studies added at authors' discretion were the limitations of this strudy. CONCLUSIONS: Handsewn IPAA should be considered if a mucosectomy is performed for dysplasia or cancer in the low rectum or, possibly, for re-do surgery. Double-stapled IPAA has been more widely adopted for its simplicity and for the advantage of preserving the anal transition zone, having lower complications, and having adequate pouch function. The single-stapled IPAA offers a more natural design, is feasible, and is associated with reasonable outcomes compared to double-stapled anastomosis. See video from symposium.

Risk factors for anastomotic leakage in colonic procedures within an ERAS-protocol. A retrospective cohort study from the Swedish part of the international ERAS-database.

BACKGROUND: Research on anastomotic leakage (AL) in colonic procedures within an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol has not yet been conducted. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for AL after colonic surgery. METHODS: The study included all consecutively recorded patients operated with colonic resection surgery in the Swedish part of the international ERAS® Interactive Audit System (EIAS) between September 2009 and June 2022. The cohort was analyzed and evaluated regarding risk factors for AL. RESULTS: Altogether 10,632 patients were included, 10,219 were without AL and 413 (3.9%) were with AL. After adjusted analysis, male sex (4.6% AL), OR: 1.49; 95% CI (1.16-1.90), obesity (4.8% AL), OR: 1.62; 95% CI (1.18-2.24), previous surgery (4.4% AL), OR: 1.45; 95% CI (1.14-1.86), open surgery (4.4% AL), OR: 1.36; 95% CI (1.02-1.83), anastomosis between small bowel and rectum (13.1% AL), OR: 3.97; 95% CI (2.23-7.10), stapled anastomosis (5.3% AL), OR: 2.46; 95% CI (1.79-3.38), inhalation anesthesia (4.2% AL), OR: 1.80; 95% CI (1.26-2.57), and conversion to open surgery (5.5% AL), OR 1.49; 95% CI (1.02-2.19) were significant risk factors for AL. Although pre and intraoperative compliance to the ERAS-protocol was similar, excess of fluids day 0 was an independent predictor for AL. CONCLUSION: Male sex, obesity, previous surgery, open surgery, stapled anastomotic technique, anastomosis between small bowel and rectum, inhalation anesthesia, conversion to open surgery, and among ERAS interventions, excess of fluids day 0, were significant risk factors for AL.

Early versus late closure of protective loop ileostomy: functional significant results in a preliminary analysis.

BACKGROUND: Protective loop ileostomy (PLI), commonly performed in rectal cancer surgery, is one of the most reliable methods to reduce the risk of sepsis associated with anastomotic complications. The correct timing of PLI closure is not well defined. Recently, most surgeons proposed to close early the PLI. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the timing of stoma closure on postoperative outcomes. METHODS: We analyzed prospectively data of patients who received PLI anterior resection for rectal cancer between January 2020 to June 2022. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the timing of stoma closure, until four weeks (EC group) and more than four weeks (LC group). Outpatient clinic follow-up, perioperative data, postoperative complications and evidence of anterior resection syndrome with the Low-Anterior Resection Score (LARS) score were recorded. RESULTS: In the EC group 24 patients were included while 27 patients were considered for LC group. There were no differences between the groups with respect to all parameters, except for recourse to adjuvant therapy, higher for LC group. Perioperative analyzed characteristics were similar among groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the EC group and the LC group for complication rate. LARS score was higher in the LC group for score >20 and >30. CONCLUSIONS: Timing of PLI closure was not a significant independent predictor of post-closure complications rate. LARS incidence was significantly related to longer time of closure, with probably late recovery of motility function, but this should be confirmed by randomized studies.

Predictors for temporary stomas non-closure among non-metastatic rectal cancer patients undergoing curative resection: a retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: The primary treatment for non-metastatic rectal cancer is curative resection. However, sphincter-preserving surgery may lead to complications. This study aims to develop a predictive model for stoma non-closure in rectal cancer patients who underwent curative-intent low anterior resection. METHODS: Consecutive patients diagnosed with non-metastatic rectal cancer between January 2005 and December 2017, who underwent low anterior resection, were retrospectively included in the Chang Gung Memorial Foundation Institutional Review Board. A comprehensive evaluation and analysis of potential risk factors linked to stoma non-closure were performed. RESULTS: Out of 956 patients with temporary stomas, 10.3% (n = 103) experienced non-closure primarily due to cancer recurrence and anastomosis-related issues. Through multivariate analysis, several preoperative risk factors significantly associated with stoma non-closure were identified, including advanced age, anastomotic leakage, positive nodal status, high preoperative CEA levels, lower rectal cancer presence, margin involvement, and an eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73m2. A risk assessment model achieved an AUC of 0.724, with a cutoff of 2.5, 84.5% sensitivity, and 51.4% specificity. Importantly, the non-closure rate could rise to 16.6% when more than two risk factors were present, starkly contrasting the 3.7% non-closure rate observed in cases with a risk score of 2 or below (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Prognostic risk factors associated with the non-closure of a temporary stoma include advanced age, symptomatic anastomotic leakage, nodal status, high CEA levels, margin involvement, and an eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73m2. Hence, it is crucial for surgeons to evaluate these factors and provide patients with a comprehensive prognosis before undergoing surgical intervention.

Feasibility of utilizing mediastinal drains alone following esophageal cancer surgery: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: It was typically necessary to place a closed thoracic drainage tube for drainage following esophageal cancer surgery. Recently, the extra use of thoracic mediastinal drainage after esophageal cancer surgery had also become more common. However, it had not yet been determined whether mediastinal drains could be used alone following esophageal cancer surgery. METHODS: A total of 134 patients who underwent esophageal cancer surgery in our department between June 2020 and June 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 34 patients received closed thoracic drainage (CTD), 58 patients received closed thoracic drainage combined with mediastinal drainage (CTD-MD), while 42 patients received postoperative mediastinal drainage (MD). The general condition, incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications, postoperative NRS score, and postoperative anastomotic leakage were compared. The Mann-Whitney U tests, Welch's t tests, one-way ANOVA, chi-square tests and Fisher's exact tests were applied. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative hyperthermia, peak leukocytes, total drainage, hospitalization days and postoperative pulmonary complications between MD group and the other two groups. Interestingly, patients in the MD group experienced significantly lower postoperative pain compared to the other two groups. Additionally, abnormal postoperative drainage fluid could be detected early in this group. Furthermore, there was no significant change in the incidence of postoperative anastomotic leakage and the mortality rate of patients after the occurrence of anastomotic leakage in the MD group compared with the other two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Using mediastinal drain alone following esophageal cancer surgery was equally safe. Furthermore, it could substantially decrease postoperative pain, potentially replacing the closed thoracic drain in clinical practice.

Stapled versus hand-sewn anastomoses after bowel resection in patients with crohn disease.

BACKGROUND: Anastomosis configuration is an essential step in treatment to restore continuity of the gastrointestinal tract following bowel resection in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). However, the association between anastomotic type and surgical outcome remains controversial. This retrospective study aimed to compare early postoperative complications and surgical outcome between stapler and handsewn anastomosis after bowel resection in Crohn's disease. METHODS: Between 2001 and 2018, a total of 339 CD patients underwent bowel resection with anastomosis. Patient characteristics, intraoperative data, early postoperative complications, and outcomes were analyzed and compared between two groups of patients. Group 1 consisted of patients with stapler anastomosis and group 2 with handsewn anastomosis. RESULTS: No significant difference was found in the incidence of postoperative surgical complications between the stapler and handsewn anastomosis groups (25% versus 24.4%, p = 1.000). Reoperation for complications and postoperative hospital stay were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Our analysis showed that there were no differences in anastomotic leak, nor postoperative complications, mortality, reoperation for operative complications, or postoperative hospital stay between the stapler anastomosis and handsewn anastomosis groups.

Contemporary outcomes for resected type 1-3 gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: a single-center experience.

BACKGROUND: Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment for tumors of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). However, contemporary analyses of the Western experience for GEJ adenocarcinoma are sparsely reported. METHODS: Patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma undergoing resection between 2012 and 2022 at a single institution were grouped based on Siewert subtype and analyzed. Pathologic and treatment related variables were assessed with relation to outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 302 patients underwent resection: 161 (53.3%) with type I, 116 (38.4%) with type II, and 25 (8.3%) with type III tumors. Most patients received neoadjuvant therapy (86.4%); 86% of cases were performed in a minimally invasive fashion. Anastomotic leak occurred in 6.0% and 30-day mortality in only 0.7%. The rate of grade 3+ morbidity was lower for the last 5 years of the study than for the first 5 years (27.5% vs 49.3%, P < .001), as was median length of stay (7 vs 8 days, P < .001). There was a significantly greater number of signet ring type tumors among type III tumors (44.0%) than type I/II tumors (11.2/12.9%, P < .001). Otherwise, there was no difference in the distribution of pathologic features among Siewert subtypes. Notably, there was a significant difference in 3-year overall survival based on Siewert classification: type I 60.0%, type II 77.2%, and type III 86.3% (P = .011). Siewert type I remained independently associated with worse survival on multivariable analysis (hazard ratio, 4.5; P = .023). CONCLUSIONS: In this large, single-institutional series, operative outcomes for patients with resected GEJ adenocarcinoma improved over time. On multivariable analysis, type I tumors were an independent predictor of poor survival.

Complications associated with loop ileostomy: analysis of risk factors.

BACKGROUND: Loop ileostomy is a common surgical procedure but is associated with complications such as outlet obstruction (OO), parastomal hernia (PH), and high-output stoma (HOS). This study aimed to identify risk factors for these complications, as well as their causal relationships. METHODS: The study included 188 consecutive patients who underwent loop ileostomy between April 2016 and September 2021. Clinical factors and postoperative stoma-related complications (OO, HOS, and PH) were analyzed retrospectively. Stoma-related factors were evaluated using specific measurements from computed tomography (CT) scans. The incidence, clinical course, and risk factors for the stoma-related complications were investigated. RESULTS: OO was diagnosed in 28 cases (15.7%), PH in 60 (32%), and HOS in 57 (31.8%). A small longitudinal stoma diameter at the rectus abdominis level on CT and a right-sided stoma were significantly associated with OO. Creation of an ileostomy for anastomotic leakage was independently associated with HOS. Higher body weight and a large longitudinal stoma diameter at the rectus abdominis level on CT were significantly associated with PH. There was a significant relationship between the occurrence of OO and HOS. However, the association between OO and PH was marginal. CONCLUSION: This study identified key risk factors for OO, HOS, and PH as complications of loop ileostomy and their causal relationships. Our findings provide insights that may guide the prevention and management of complications related to loop ileostomy.

Detrimental impact of late-onset pneumonia on long-term prognosis in oesophageal cancer survivors.

BACKGROUD: Oesophageal cancer patients are prone to early- and late-onset pneumonia after oesophagectomy. We aimed to investigate the incidence rate and impact on the long-term prognosis of late-onset pneumonia in oesophageal cancer survivors who survived for at least one year after oesophagectomy without cancer recurrence. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 233 patients with thoracic oesophageal cancer who underwent oesophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction between September 2009 and June 2019 at a tertiary referral hospital in Japan. Pneumonia that occurred ≥1 year after oesophagectomy was defined as late-onset pneumonia. RESULTS: Among the 185 oesophageal cancer survivors, 31 (17%) developed late-onset pneumonia. The cumulative incidence rates of late-onset pneumonia 24, 36, and 60 months after oesophagectomy were 6.4%, 10%, and 21%, respectively, whereas pneumonia recurred at 21%, 31%, and 52% within 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively, after the first pneumonia. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, postoperative anastomotic leakage, and loss of skeletal muscle mass were independently associated with late-onset pneumonia, and a combination of these factors further increased the risk. Late-onset pneumonia with hospitalisation had the greatest negative impact on the long-term prognosis as non-cancer deaths (HR, 21; p < 0.001), followed by recurrent late-onset pneumonia (HR, 18; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Late-onset pneumonia in oesophageal cancer survivors is significantly associated with an increased risk of recurrent infections and non-cancer deaths. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and postoperative muscle loss are risk factors for late-onset pneumonia, and more intensive pharmacological and nutritional interventions should be considered to improve long-term prognosis after oesophagectomy.