Robotic versus laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer: A Western propensity score matched analysis.

BACKGROUND: Robot-assisted gastrectomy (RG) has been shown to be safe and feasible in the treatment of gastric cancer (GC). However, it is unclear whether RG is equivalent to laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG), especially in the Western world. Our objective was to compare the outcomes of RG and LG in GC patients. METHODS: We reviewed all gastric adenocarcinoma patients who underwent curative gastrectomy by minimally invasive approach in our institution from 2009 to 2022. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was conducted to reduce selection bias. DaVinci Si platform was used for RG. RESULTS: A total of 156 patients were eligible for inclusion (48 RG and 108 LG). Total gastrectomy was performed in 21.3% and 25% of cases in LG and RG, respectively. The frequency of stage pTNM II/III was 48.1%, and 54.2% in the LG and RG groups (p = 0.488). After PSM, 48 patients were matched in each group. LG and RG had a similar number of dissected lymph nodes (p = 0.759), operative time (p = 0.421), and hospital stay (p = 0.353). Blood loss was lower in the RG group (p = 0.042). The major postoperative complications rate was 16.7% for LG and 6.2% for RG (p = 0.109). The 30-day mortality rate was 2.1% and 0% for LG and RG, respectively (p = 1.0). There was no significant difference between the LG and RG groups for disease-free survival (79.6% vs. 61.2%, respectively; p = 0.155) and overall survival (75.9% vs. 65.7%, respectively; p = 0.422). CONCLUSION: RG had similar surgical and long-term outcomes compared to LG, with less blood loss observed in RG.

Short-Term Surgical Outcomes of Robotic Gastrectomy Compared to Open Gastrectomy for Patients with Gastric Cancer: a Randomized Trial.

BACKGROUND: Robotic gastrectomy (RG) has been shown to be a safe and feasible method in gastric cancer (GC) treatment. However, most studies are in Eastern cohorts and there is great interest in knowing whether the method can be used routinely, especially in the West. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the short-term surgical outcomes of D2-gastrectomy by RG versus open gastrectomy (OG). METHODS: Single-institution, open-label, non-inferiority, randomized clinical trial performed between 2015 and 2020. GC patients were randomized (1:1 allocation) to surgical treatment by RG or OG. Da Vinci Si platform was used. INCLUSION CRITERIA: gastric adenocarcinoma, stage cT2-4 cN0-1, potentially curative surgery, age 18-80 years, and ECOG performance status 0-1. EXCLUSION CRITERIA: emergency surgery and previous gastric or major abdominal surgery. Primary endpoint was short-term surgical outcomes. The study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02292914). RESULTS: Of 65 randomized patients, 5 were excluded (3 palliatives, 1 obstruction and emergency surgery, and 1 for material shortage). Consequently, 31 and 29 patients were included for final analysis in the OG and RG groups, respectively. No differences were observed between groups regarding age, sex, BMI, comorbidities, ASA, and frequency of total gastrectomy. RG had similar mean number of harvested lymph nodes (p = 0.805), longer surgical time (p < 0.001), and less bleeding (p < 0.001) compared to OG. Postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, and readmissions in 30 days were equivalent between OG and RG. CONCLUSIONS: RG reduces operative bleeding by more than 50%. The short-term outcomes were non-inferior to OG, although surgical time was longer in RG.

ROBOTIC GASTRECTOMY: TECHNIQUE STANDARDIZATION.

BACKGROUND: Trocars position for the Si model (position is similar for the Xi, although trocars stay more in line). Robotic gastrectomy is gaining popularity worldwide. It allows reduced blood loss and lesser pain. However, it widespread use is limited by the extensive learning curve and costs. AIM: To describe our standard technique with reduced use of robotic instruments. METHODS: We detail the steps involved in the procedure, including trocar placement, necessary robotic instruments, and meticulous surgical description. RESULTS: After standardizing the procedure, 28 patients were operated with this budget technique. For each procedure material used was: 1 (Xi model) or 2 disposable trocars (Si) and 4 robotic instruments. Stapling and clipping were performed by the assistant through an auxiliary port, limiting the use of robotic instruments and reducing the cost. CONCLUSION: This standardization helps implementing a robotic program for gastrectomy in the daily practice or in one`s institution.

BRAZILIAN GASTRIC CANCER ASSOCIATION GUIDELINES (PART 2): UPDATE ON TREATMENT.

BACKGROUND: : The II Brazilian Consensus on Gastric Cancer of the Brazilian Gastric Cancer Association BGCA (Part 1) was recently published. On this occasion, countless specialists working in the treatment of this disease expressed their opinion in the face of the statements presented. AIM: : To present the BGCA Guidelines (Part 2) regarding indications for surgical treatment, operative techniques, extension of resection and multimodal treatment. METHODS: To formulate these guidelines, the authors carried out an extensive and current review regarding each declaration present in the II Consensus, using the Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library and SciELO databases initially with the following descriptors: gastric cancer, gastrectomy, lymphadenectomy, multimodal treatment. In addition, each statement was classified according to the level of evidence and degree of recommendation. RESULTS: : Of the 43 statements present in this study, 11 (25,6%) were classified with level of evidence A, 20 (46,5%) B and 12 (27,9%) C. Regarding the degree of recommendation, 18 (41,9%) statements obtained grade of recommendation 1, 14 (32,6%) 2a, 10 (23,3%) 2b e one (2,3%) 3. CONCLUSION: : The guidelines complement of the guidelines presented here allows surgeons and oncologists who work to combat gastric cancer to offer the best possible treatment, according to the local conditions available.

BRAZILIAN GASTRIC CANCER ASSOCIATION GUIDELINES (PART 1): AN UPDATE ON DIAGNOSIS, STAGING, ENDOSCOPIC TREATMENT AND FOLLOW-UP.

BACKGROUND: The II Brazilian Consensus on Gastric Cancer by the Brazilian Gastric Cancer Association (ABCG) was recently published. On this occasion, several experts in gastric cancer expressed their opinion before the statements presented. AIM: To present the ABCG Guidelines (part 1) regarding the diagnosis, staging, endoscopic treatment and follow-up of gastric cancer patients. METHODS: To forge these Guidelines, the authors carried out an extensive and current review regarding each statement present in the II Consensus, using the Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library and SciELO databases with the following descriptors: gastric cancer, staging, endoscopic treatment and follow-up. In addition, each statement was classified according to the level of evidence and degree of recommendation. RESULTS: Of the 24 statements, two (8.3%) were classified with level of evidence A, 11 (45.8%) with B and 11 (45.8%) with C. As for the degree of recommendation, six (25%) statements obtained grade of recommendation 1, nine (37.5%) recommendation 2a, six (25%) 2b and three (12.5%) grade 3. CONCLUSION: The guidelines presented here are intended to assist professionals working in the fight against gastric cancer with relevant and current information, granting them to be applied in the daily medical practice.

Surgical outcomes of gastrectomy with D1 lymph node dissection performed for patients with unfavorable clinical conditions.

BACKGROUND: Gastric cancer (GC) patients with advanced age and/or multiple morbidities have limited expected survival and may not benefit from extended lymph node resection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical outcomes of these GC patients who underwent gastrectomy with D1 dissection. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all GC patients who underwent gastrectomy with curative intent from 2009 to 2017. The decision to perform D1 was based on preoperative multidisciplinary meeting, and/or intraoperative clinical judgment. RESULTS: Among 460 enrolled patients, 73 (15.9%) underwent D1 lymphadenectomy and 387 (84.1%) D2 lymphadenectomy. Male gender, older age, American Society of Anesthesiologists score (ASA) III/IV, higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) were more common in the D1 group. Postoperative major complications were significantly higher in D1 group (24.7% vs 12.4%, p < 0.001) and mostly related to clinical complications. Locoregional recurrence was higher in the D1 group (53.8% vs 39.5%, p = 0.330) however, without statistical significance. No difference was found in disease-free survival (DFS) between D1 and D2 patients with positive lymph nodes (p = 0.192), whereas overall survival was longer in the D2 group (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed a statistically significant impact on survival of age ≥70 years, CCI ≥5, total gastrectomy, D1 lymphadenectomy and advanced stages (III/IV). CONCLUSIONS: Frail patients had high surgical mortality even when submitted to D1 dissection. DFS was comparable to D2. Extent of lymphadenectomy in high-risk patients should take in account the expectation of a decrease in surgical risk with the possibility of impairment of long-term survival.

TOTAL OMENTECTOMY IN GASTRIC CANCER SURGERY: IS IT ALWAYS NECESSARY?

BACKGROUND: Traditionally, total omentectomy is performed along with gastric resection and extended lymphadenectomy in gastric cancer (GC) surgery. However, solid evidences regarding its oncologic benefit is still scarce. AIM: To evaluate the incidence of metastatic omental lymph nodes (LN) in patients undergoing curative gastrectomy for GC, as well as its risk factors and patients' outcomes. METHODS: All consecutive patients submitted to D2/modified D2 gastrectomy due to gastric adenocarcinoma from March 2009 to April 2016 were retrospectively reviewed from a prospective collected database. RESULTS: Of 284 patients included, five (1.8%) patients had metastatic omental LN (one: pT3N3bM0; two: pT4aN3bM0; one: pT4aN2M0 and one pT4bN3bM0). Four of them deceased and one was under palliative chemotherapy due relapse. LN metastases in the greater omentum significantly correlated with tumor's size (p=0.018), N stage (p<0.001), clinical stage (p=0.022), venous invasion growth (p=0.003), recurrence (p=0.006), site of recurrence (peritoneum: p=0.008; liver: p=0.023; ovary: p=0.035) and death (p=0.008). CONCLUSION: The incidence of metastatic omental LN of patients undergoing radical gastrectomy due to GC is extremely low. Total omentectomy may be avoided in tumors smaller than 5.25 cm and T1/T2 tumors. However, the presence of lymph node metastases in the greater omentum is associated with recurrence in the peritoneum, liver, ovary and death.

Laparoscopic D2 Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: Mid-Term Results and Current Evidence.

INTRODUCTION: Although the first laparoscopic gastrectomy was performed in 1991, there was a long delay until it was incorporated into the regular practice of western surgeons. In Brazil, there are only few case series reported and data on its safety and efficacy along with mid- and long-term results are desired. OBJECTIVE: Present the mid-term results of laparoscopic gastrectomy with curative intent in the treatment of gastric adenocarcinoma and review the current evidence on the therapy of this neoplasia with the laparoscopic access. METHODS: Patients who underwent D2 laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric adenocarcinoma were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Sixty-nine patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 59.2 years and the mean body mass index was 24.2 kg/m2. Subtotal gastrectomy was performed in 73.9%. The mean number of harvested lymph nodes was 36.7, increased lymph node count and shorter operative time were observed in the last 34 cases. Median hospital stay was 8 days. Postoperative complications occurred in 22 (31.9%) cases. Surgical mortality was 4.3%. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic gastrectomy can be performed safely with excellent short- and mid-term results. As experience increases, surgical duration is reduced and lymph node count rises.

Duodenal fistula: The most lethal surgical complication in a case series of radical gastrectomy.

BACKGROUND: Despite all advances regarding the surgical treatment of gastric cancer (GC), duodenal stump fistula (DF) continues to negatively affect postoperative outcomes. This study aimed to assess DF regarding its incidence, risk factors, management and impact on overall survival. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 562 consecutive patients who underwent gastrectomy for GC between 2009 and 2017. Clinicopathological characteristics analysis was performed comparing DF, other surgical fistulas and patients with uneventful postoperative course. RESULTS: DF occurred in 15 (2.7%) cases, and 51 (9%) patients had other surgical fistulas. Tumor located in the lower third of the stomach (p = 0.021) and subtotal gastrectomy (p = 0.002) were associated with occurrence of DF. The overall mortality rate was 40% for DF and 15.7% for others surgical fistulas (p = 0.043). The median time of DF onset was on postoperative day 9 (range 1-75). Conservative approach was performed in 8 patients and surgical intervention in 7 cases. Age (OR 7.41, p = 0.012) and DF (OR 9.06, p=0.020) were found to be independent risk factors for surgical mortality. Furthermore, patients without fistula had better long-term survival outcomes comparing to patients with any type of fistulas (p = 0.006). CONCLUSION: DF is related with distal tumors and patients submitted to subtotal gastrectomy. It affects not only the postoperative period with high morbidity and mortality rates, but may also have a negative impact on long-term survival.

Risk Factors for Lymph Node Metastasis in Western Early Gastric Cancer After Optimal Surgical Treatment.

BACKGROUND: Lymph node metastasis (LNM) has a strong influence on the prognosis of patients with early gastric cancer (EGC). As minimally invasive treatments are considered appropriate for EGC, and lymphadenectomy may be restricted or even eliminated in some cases; it is imperative to identify the main risk factors for LNM to individualize the therapeutic approach. This study aims to evaluate the risk factors for LNM in EGC and to determine the adequacy of the endoscopic resection criteria in a western population. METHODS: EGC patients who underwent gastrectomy with lymphadenectomy were retrospectively analyzed utilizing a prospective database. The clinicopathological variables were assessed to determine which factors were associated to LNM. RESULTS: Among 474 enrolled patients, 105 had EGC (22.1%). LNM occurred in 13.3% of all EGC (10% T1a; 15.4% T1b). Tumor size, venous, lymphatic, and perineural invasions were confirmed as independent predictors of LNM by multivariate analysis. Expanded criteria were safely adopted only in selected cases, and 13.6% of patients who matched expanded indication had LNM. CONCLUSIONS: Tumor size, venous, lymphatic, and perineural invasions were associated with LNM and should be considered as surrogate markers for surgical treatment of EGC. Expanded criteria for endoscopic resection can be safely adopted only in selected cases.

Surgical treatment of gastric cancer: a 10-year experience in a high-volume university hospital.

OBJECTIVES: Surgery remains the cornerstone treatment modality for gastric cancer, the fifth most common type of tumor in Brazil. The aim of this study was to analyze the surgical treatment outcomes of patients with gastric cancer who were referred to a high-volume university hospital. METHODS: We reviewed all consecutive patients who underwent any surgical procedure due to gastric cancer from a prospectively collected database. Clinicopathological characteristics, surgical and survival outcomes were evaluated, with emphasis on patients treated with curative intent. RESULTS: From 2008 to 2017, 934 patients with gastric tumors underwent surgical procedures in our center. Gastric adenocarcinoma accounted for the majority of cases. Of the 875 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma, resection with curative intent was performed in 63.5%, and palliative treatment was performed in 22.4%. The postoperative surgical mortality rate for resected cases was 5.3% and was related to D1 lymphadenectomy and the presence of comorbidities. Analysis of patients treated with curative intent showed that resection extent, pT category, pN category and final pTNM stage were related to disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). The DFS rates for D1 and D2 lymphadenectomy were similar, but D2 lymphadenectomy significantly improved the OS rate. Additionally, clinical factors and the presence of comorbidities had influence on the OS. CONCLUSIONS: TNM stage and the type of lymphadenectomy were independent factors related to prognosis. Early diagnosis should be sought to offer the optimal surgical approach in patients with less-advanced disease.

DETECTION OF OCCULT LYMPH NODE TUMOR CELLS IN NODE-NEGATIVE GASTRIC CANCER PATIENTS.

Background: The presence of lymph nodes metastasis is one of the most important prognostic indicators in gastric cancer. The micrometastases have been studied as prognostic factor in gastric cancer, which are related to decrease overall survival and increased risk of recurrence. However, their identification is limited by conventional methodology, since they can be overlooked after routine staining. Aim: To investigate the presence of occult tumor cells using cytokeratin (CK) AE1/AE3 immunostaining in gastric cancer patients histologically lymph node negative (pN0) by H&E. Methods: Forty patients (T1-T4N0) submitted to a potentially curative gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy were evaluated. The results for metastases, micrometastases and isolated tumor cells were also associated to clinicopathological characteristics and their impact on stage grouping. Tumor deposits within lymph nodes were defined according to the tumor-node-metastases guidelines (7th TNM). Results: A total of 1439 lymph nodes were obtained (~36 per patient). Tumor cells were detected by immunohistochemistry in 24 lymph nodes from 12 patients (30%). Neoplasic cells were detected as a single or cluster tumor cells. Tumor (p=0.002), venous (p=0.016), lymphatic (p=0.006) and perineural invasions (p=0.04), as well as peritumoral lymphocytic response (p=0.012) were correlated to CK-positive immunostaining tumor cells in originally negative lymph nodes by H&E. The histologic stage of two patients was upstaged from stage IB to stage IIA. Four of the 28 CK-negative patients (14.3%) and three among 12 CK-positive patients (25%) had disease recurrence (p=0.65). Conclusion: The CK-immunostaining is an effective method for detecting occult tumor cells in lymph nodes and may be recommended to precisely determine tumor stage. It may be useful as supplement to H&E routine to provide better pathological staging.

Racional: A presença de metástase em linfonodos é um dos indicadores prognósticos mais importantes no câncer gástrico. As micrometástases têm sido estudadas como fator prognóstico no câncer gástrico, sendo relacionadas à diminuição da sobrevida global e aumento do risco de recidiva da doença. Entretanto, sua identificação é limitada pela metodologia convencional, uma vez que podem não ser identificadas pela rotina histopatológica por meio da coloração de H&E. Objetivos: Investigar a presença de células tumorais ocultas através de imunoistoquimica utilizando as citoqueratinas (CK) AE1/AE3 em pacientes com câncer gástrico com linfonodos histologicamente classificados como negativos por H&E. Métodos: Quarenta pacientes (T1-T4N0) submetidos à gastrectomia potencialmente curativa com linfadenectomia D2 foram avaliados. A presença de metástases, micrometástases e células tumorais isoladas foram correlacionadas com características clínicopatológicas e impacto no estadiamento. Os depósitos tumorais nos linfonodos foram classificados de acordo com o sistema TNM (7º TNM). Resultados: Um total de 1439 linfonodos foi obtido (~36 por paciente). Células tumorais foram detectadas por imunoistoquimica em 24 linfonodos de 12 pacientes (30%). As células neoplásicas estavam presentes na forma isolada ou em cluster. Invasão tumoral (p=0,002), venosa (p=0,016), linfática (p=0,006) e perineural (p=0,04), assim como resposta linfocítica peritumoral (p=0,012) foram correlacionadas com linfonodos CK-positivos que originalmente eram negativos à H&E. Dois pacientes tiveram o estadiamento alterado, migrando do estádio IB para IIA. Quatro dos 28 CK-negativos (14,3%) e três dos 12 CK-positivos (25%) tiveram recorrência da doença (p=0,65). Conclusão: A imunoistoquimica é meio eficaz para a detecção de células tumorais ocultas em linfonodos, podendo ser recomendada para melhor determinar o estágio do tumor. Ela pode ser útil como técnica complementar à rotina de H&E, de modo a fornecer melhor estadiamento patológico.

GASTRIC NEUROENDOCRINE TUMOR: REVIEW AND UPDATE.

INTRODUCTION: The frequency of gastric neuroendocrine tumors is increasing. Reasons are the popularization of endoscopy and its technical refinements. Despite this, they are still poorly understood and have complex management. AIM: Update the knowledge on gastric neuroendocrine tumor and expose the future perspectives on the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. METHOD: Literature review using the following databases: Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library and SciELO. Search terms were: gastric carcinoid, gastric neuroendocrine tumor, treatment. From the selected articles, 38 were included in this review. RESULTS: Gastric neuroendocrine tumors are classified in four clinical types. Correct identification of the clinical type and histological grade is fundamental, since treatment varies accordingly and defines survival. CONCLUSION: Gastric neuroendocrine tumors comprise different subtypes with distinct management and prognosis. Correct identification allows for a tailored therapy. Further studies will clarify the diseases biology and improve its treatment.

Minimally invasive surgery for gastric cancer in Brazil: current status and perspectives-a report from the Brazilian Laparoscopic Oncologic Gastrectomy Group (BLOGG).

The minimally invasive surgery for gastric cancer in Brazil has begun about two years after the first laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) performed by Kitano in Japan, in 1991. Although the report of first surgeries shows the year of 1993, there was no dissemination of the technique until the years 2010. At that time with the improvement of optical devices, laparoscopic instruments and with the publications coming from Asia, several Brazilian surgeons felt encouraged to go to Korea and Japan to learn the standardization of the LG. After that there was a significant increase in that type of surgery, especially after the IRCAD opened a branch in Brazil. The growing interest for the subject led some services to begin their own experience with the LG and, since the beginning, the results were similar with those found in the open surgery. Nevertheless, there were some differences with the papers published initially in Japan and Korea. In those countries, the surgeries were laparoscopic assisted, meaning that, in the majority of cases, the anastomoses were done through a mini-incision in the end of the procedure. In Brazil since the beginning it was performed completely through laparoscopic approach due to the skills acquired by Brazilian surgeons in bariatric surgeries. Another difference was the stage. While in the east the majority of cases were done in T1 patients, in Brazil, probably due to the lack of early cases, the surgeries were done also in advanced cases. The initial experience of Zilberstein et al. revealed low rates of morbidity without mortality. Comparing laparoscopic and open surgery, the group from Barretos/IRCAD showed shorter surgical time (216×255 minutes), earlier oral or enteral feeding and earlier hospital discharge, with a smaller number of harvested lymph nodes (28 in laparoscopic against 33 in open surgery). There was no significant difference regarding morbidity, mortality and reoperation rate. In the first efforts to publish a multicentric study the Brazilian Gastric Cancer Association (BGCA) collected data from three institutions analyzing 148 patients operated from 2006 to 2016. There were 98 subtotal, 48 total and 2 proximal gastrectomies. The anastomoses were totally laparoscopic in 105, laparoscopic assisted in 21, cervical in 2, and 20 open (after conversion). The reconstruction methods were: 142 Roux-en-Y, two Billroth I, and three other types. The conversion rate was 13.5% (20/148). The D2 dissection was performed in 139 patients. The mean number of harvested lymph nodes was 34.4. If we take only the D2 cases the mean number was 39.5. The morbidity rate was 22.3%. The mortality was 2.7%. The stages were: IA-59, IB-14, IIA-11, IIB-15, IIIA-9, IIIB-19, IIIC-11 and stage IV-three cases. Four patients died from the disease and 10 are alive with disease. The participating services have already begun the robotic gastrectomy with satisfactory results. The intention of this group is to begin now a prospective multicentric study to confirm the data already obtained with the retrospective studies.

Does the intraoperative peritoneal lavage cytology add prognostic information in patients with potentially curative gastric resection?

Peritoneal recurrence is the foremost pattern of failure after potentially curative resection for gastric cancer. Our aim was to evaluate the prognostic value of intraperitoneal free cancer cells (IFCCs) in peritoneal lavage of patients who underwent potentially curative resection for gastric carcinoma. Two hundred twenty patients with gastric cancer stage I, II, or III were prospectively evaluated with peritoneal lavage and cytologic examination. Aspirated fluid from the abdominal cavity was centrifuged and subjected to Papanicolaou staining. The mean age was 60.9 years (range, 21-89 years), and 63.6% were men. IFCCs were detected in 6.8% of the patients; suspicious in 2.7%, and negative in 84.5%. No judgment could be given in 5.9% of the cases. Invasion of the gastric serosa (pT3) was observed in all positive cytology patients. Patients with IFCCs had a mean survival time of 10.5 months, while those with negative IFCC had a mean survival time of 61 months (P = 0.00001). There was no correlation between the presence of IFCCs and tumor size, histology, pN, or tumor site. Our conclusions are that (1) positive cytology indicates a poor prognosis in patients who underwent potentially curative gastric resection and (2) peritoneal lavage cytology improves staging in assessing these patients and may alter their therapeutic approach.

Favorable minimal invasive surgery in the treatment of superior mesenteric artery syndrome: Case report.

INTRODUCTION: The Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) is a rare form of intestinal obstruction. The diagnosis is based on findings from imaging studies, including vascular compression of the duodenum by the SMA and can be associated with duodenal dilatation. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report a case of a patient with SMAS and recurrent episodes of intestinal obstruction, which was successfully treated by laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy. DISCUSSION: The initial treatment is usually conservative for patient's clinical improvement. Surgery is indicated when conservative treatment fails as well for patients with recurrent symptoms. Minimal invasive surgery might be a good approach, specially in patients who suffers from this disease and currently are in depleted health conditions. CONCLUSION: The procedure herein demonstrated may be considered safe and resolutive, with good visualization of structures, relative short surgical time and fast post-operative recovery.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY FOR GASTRIC CANCER: TIME TO CHANGE THE PARADIGM.

INTRODUCTION: Minimally invasive surgery widely used to treat benign disorders of the digestive system, has become the focus of intense study in recent years in the field of surgical oncology. Since then, the experience with this kind of approach has grown, aiming to provide the same oncological outcomes and survival to conventional surgery. Regarding gastric cancer, surgery is still considered the only curative treatment, considering the extent of resection and lymphadenectomy performed. Conventional surgery remains the main modality performed worldwide. Notwithstanding, the role of the minimally invasive access is yet to be clarified. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and summarize the current status of minimally invasive resection of gastric cancer. METHODS: A literature review was performed using Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library and SciELO with the following headings: gastric cancer, minimally invasive surgery, robotic gastrectomy, laparoscopic gastrectomy, stomach cancer. The language used for the research was English. RESULTS: 28 articles were considered, including randomized controlled trials, meta-analyzes, prospective and retrospective cohort studies. CONCLUSION: Minimally invasive gastrectomy may be considered as a technical option in the treatment of early gastric cancer. As for advanced cancer, recent studies have demonstrated the safety and feasibility of the laparoscopic approach. Robotic gastrectomy will probably improve outcomes obtained with laparoscopy. However, high cost is still a barrier to its use on a large scale.

INTRODUÇÃO: A cirurgia minimamente invasiva amplamente usada para tratar doenças benignas do aparelho digestivo, tornou-se o foco de intenso estudo nos últimos anos no campo da oncologia cirúrgica. Desde então, a experiência com este tipo de abordagem tem crescido, com o objetivo de fornecer os mesmos resultados oncológicos e sobrevivência à cirurgia convencional. Em relação ao câncer gástrico, o tratamento cirúrgico ainda é considerado o único tratamento curativo, considerando a extensão da ressecção e linfadenectomia realizada. A gastrectomia convencional continua a ser a principal modalidade realizada em todo o mundo. Não obstante, o papel do acesso minimamente invasivo tem ainda de ser esclarecido. OBJETIVO: Avaliar e resumir o estado atual da ressecção minimamente invasiva do câncer gástrico. MÉTODO: Foi realizada revisão da literatura utilizando as bases Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library e SciELO com os seguintes descritores: câncer gástrico, cirurgia minimamente invasiva, gastrectomia robótica, gastrectomia laparoscópica, neoplasia de estômago. A língua usada para a pesquisa foi o inglês. RESULTADOS: Foram considerados para elaboração desta revisão 28 artigos, entre eles ensaios clínicos randomizados, metanálises, estudos coorte prospectivos e retrospectivos. CONCLUSÃO: A gastrectomia minimamente invasiva é opção técnica no tratamento do câncer gástrico precoce. Quanto ao câncer avançado, estudos recentes têm demonstrado a segurança e a viabilidade do acesso videolaparoscópico. A gastrectomia robótica provavelmente melhorará os resultados obtidos com a laparoscopia. Porém, o alto custo ainda é impedimento para sua utilização em larga escala.

Brazilian gastric cancer association guidelines (part 2): update on treatment / Diretrizes da associação brasileira de câncer gástrico (parte 2): atualização sobre o tratamento

ABSTRACT Background : The II Brazilian Consensus on Gastric Cancer of the Brazilian Gastric Cancer Association BGCA (Part 1) was recently published. On this occasion, countless specialists working in the treatment of this disease expressed their opinion in the face of the statements presented. Aim : To present the BGCA Guidelines (Part 2) regarding indications for surgical treatment, operative techniques, extension of resection and multimodal treatment. Methods: To formulate these guidelines, the authors carried out an extensive and current review regarding each declaration present in the II Consensus, using the Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library and SciELO databases initially with the following descriptors: gastric cancer, gastrectomy, lymphadenectomy, multimodal treatment. In addition, each statement was classified according to the level of evidence and degree of recommendation. Results : Of the 43 statements present in this study, 11 (25,6%) were classified with level of evidence A, 20 (46,5%) B and 12 (27,9%) C. Regarding the degree of recommendation, 18 (41,9%) statements obtained grade of recommendation 1, 14 (32,6%) 2a, 10 (23,3%) 2b e one (2,3%) 3. Conclusion : The guidelines complement of the guidelines presented here allows surgeons and oncologists who work to combat gastric cancer to offer the best possible treatment, according to the local conditions available.

RESUMO Racional: O II Consenso Brasileiro de Câncer Gástrico da Associação Brasileira de Câncer Gástrico ABCG (Parte 1) foi recentemente publicado. Nesta ocasião inúmeros especialistas que atuam no tratamento desta doença expressaram suas opiniões diante declarações apresentadas. Objetivo: Apresentar as Diretrizes da ABCG (Parte 2) quanto às indicações de tratamento cirúrgico, técnicas operatórias, extensão de ressecção e terapia combinada. Métodos: Para formulação destas diretrizes os autores realizaram extensa e atual revisão referente a cada declaração presente no II Consenso, utilizando as bases Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library e SciELO, inicialmente com os seguintes descritores: câncer gástrico, gastrectomia, linfadenectomia, terapia combinada. Ainda, cada declaração foi classificada de acordo com o nível de evidência e grau de recomendação. Resultados: Das 43 declarações presentes neste estudo, 11 (25,6%) foram classificadas com nível de evidência A, 20 (46,5%) B e 12 (27,9%) C. Quanto ao grau de recomendação, 18 (41,9%) declarações obtiveram grau de recomendação 1, 14 (32,6%) 2a, 10 (23,3%) 2b e um (2,3%) 3. Conclusão: O complemento das diretrizes aqui presentes possibilita que cirurgiões e oncologistas que atuam no combate ao câncer gástrico possam oferecer o melhor tratamento possível, de acordo com as condições locais disponíveis.

Robotic gastrectomy: technique standardization / Gastrectomia robótica: padronização técnica

ABSTRACT Background: Robotic gastrectomy is gaining popularity worldwide. It allows reduced blood loss and lesser pain. However, it widespread use is limited by the extensive learning curve and costs. Aim: To describe our standard technique with reduced use of robotic instruments. Methods: We detail the steps involved in the procedure, including trocar placement, necessary robotic instruments, and meticulous surgical description. Results: After standardizing the procedure, 28 patients were operated with this budget technique. For each procedure material used was: 1 (Xi model) or 2 disposable trocars (Si) and 4 robotic instruments. Stapling and clipping were performed by the assistant through an auxiliary port, limiting the use of robotic instruments and reducing the cost. Conclusion: This standardization helps implementing a robotic program for gastrectomy in the daily practice or in one`s institution.

RESUMO Racional: A gastrectomia robótica está ganhando popularidade no mundo. Ela permite menor perda sanguínea e menos dor. Entretanto, a curva de aprendizado extensa e os custos limitam seu amplo uso. Objetivo: Descrever nossa técnica padrão com uso reduzido de instrumental robótico. Métodos: Detalham-se todos os passos envolvidos no procedimento, incluindo posicionamento de portais, instrumentos robóticos necessários e descrição cirúrgica meticulosa. Resultados: Após a padronização do procedimento, 28 pacientes foram operados com essa técnica. Em cada procedimento foram utilizados: 1 (modelo Xi) ou 2 (Si) trocárteres descartáveis e 4 pinças robóticas. Grampeamentos e colocação de clips ficaram a cargo do auxiliar, reduzindo o número de instrumentos robóticos utilizados, diminuindo assim o custo. Conclusão: Essa padronização ajuda a implementar programa robótico de gastrectomia na prática diária ou em uma instituição.

Endoscopy vs surgery in the treatment of early gastric cancer: Systematic review.

AIM: To report a systematic review, establishing the available data to an unpublished 2a strength of evidence, better handling clinical practice. METHODS: A systematic review was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, LILACS, Scopus and CINAHL databases. Information of the selected studies was extracted on characteristics of trial participants, inclusion and exclusion criteria, interventions (mainly, mucosal resection and submucosal dissection vs surgical approach) and outcomes (adverse events, different survival rates, mortality, recurrence and complete resection rates). To ascertain the validity of eligible studies, the risk of bias was measured using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. The analysis of the absolute risk of the outcomes was performed using the software RevMan, by computing risk differences (RD) of dichotomous variables. Data on RD and 95%CIs for each outcome were calculated using the Mantel-Haenszel test and inconsistency was qualified and reported in χ(2) and the Higgins method (I (2)). Sensitivity analysis was performed when heterogeneity was higher than 50%, a subsequent assay was done and other findings were compiled. RESULTS: Eleven retrospective cohort studies were selected. The included records involved 2654 patients with early gastric cancer that filled the absolute or expanded indications for endoscopic resection. Three-year survival data were available for six studies (n = 1197). There were no risk differences (RD) after endoscopic and surgical treatment (RD = 0.01, 95%CI: -0.02-0.05, P = 0.51). Five-year survival data (n = 2310) showed no difference between the two groups (RD = 0.01, 95%CI: -0.01-0.03, P = 0.46). Recurrence data were analized in five studies (1331 patients) and there was no difference between the approaches (RD = 0.01, 95%CI: -0.00-0.02, P = 0.09). Adverse event data were identified in eight studies (n = 2439). A significant difference was detected (RD = -0.08, 95%CI: -0.10--0.05, P < 0.05), demonstrating better results with endoscopy. Mortality data were obtained in four studies (n = 1107). There was no difference between the groups (RD = -0.01, 95%CI: -0.02-0.00, P = 0.22). CONCLUSION: Three-, 5-year survival, recurrence and mortality are similar for both groups. Considering complication, endoscopy is better and, analyzing complete resection data, it is worse than surgery.