Preoperative lateral lymph node features and impact on local recurrence after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and total mesorectal excision for locally advanced rectal cancer: results from a multicentre international cohort study.

AIM: Locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is commonly treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) and total mesorectal excision (TME) to reduce local recurrence (LR) and improve survival. However, LR, particularly associated with lateral lymph node (LLN) involvement, remains a concern. The aim of this study was to investigate preoperative factors associated with LLN involvement and their impact on LR rates in LARC patients undergoing nCRT and curative surgery. METHOD: This multicentre retrospective study, including four academic high-volume institutions, involved 301 consecutive adult LARC patients treated with nCRT and curative surgery between January 2014 and December 2019 who did not undergo lateral lymph node dissection (LLND). Baseline and restaging pelvic MRIs were evaluated for suspicious LLNs based on institutional criteria. Patients were divided into two groups: cLLN+ (positive nodes) and cLLN- (no suspicious nodes). Primary outcome measures were LR and lateral local recurrence (LLR) rates at 3 years. RESULTS: Among the cohort, 15.9% had suspicious LLNs on baseline MRI, and 9.3% had abnormal LLNs on restaging MRI. At 3 years, LR and LLR rates were 4.0% and 1.0%, respectively. Ten out of 12 (83.3%) patients with LR showed no suspicious LLNs at the baseline MRI. Abnormal LLNs on MRI were not independent risk factors for LR, distant recurrence or disease-free survival. CONCLUSION: Abnormal LLNs on baseline and restaging MRI assessment did not impact LR and LLR rates in this cohort of patients with LARC submitted to nCRT and curative TME surgery.

[Management of acute and chronic anal pain]. / Prise en charge des douleurs anales aiguës et chroniques.

Anal pain can be acute (most commonly related to anal fissure, perianal abcess or fistula, perianal vein thrombosis) or chronic (functional or neuropathic) including levator ani syndrome, proctalgia fugax, pudendal nevralgia and coccygodynia. History and clinical examination are keys to diagnose acute causes. Diagnosis of chronic anal pain on the other hand is more challenging and based on thorough history and analysis of symptoms. The aim of this article is to discuss the main etiologies and treatments of acute and chronic anal pain, including an update on the management and treatment of hemorrhoidal disease and postoperative pain management.

La douleur anale peut être de survenue aiguë (le plus fréquemment en lien avec une fissure anale, un abcès ou fistule anale, ou une thrombose des veines périanales) ou chronique (fonctionnelle ou neuropathique), comportant le syndrome du releveur de l'anus, la proctalgia fugax, la névralgie du pudendal et les coccygodynies. Le diagnostic d'une douleur anale aiguë est rapidement posé grâce à l'anamnèse et surtout l'examen clinique. Les causes chroniques sont en revanche plus difficiles à diagnostiquer et nécessitent un interrogatoire détaillé avec une analyse approfondie des symptômes. Le but de cet article est d'explorer le traitement des étiologies de douleur anale aiguë, de pouvoir reconnaître une grande part des douleurs anales chroniques, sans oublier une mise à jour sur la maladie hémorroïdaire avec la prévention et gestion des douleurs postopératoires.

Feasibility of on-demand robotics in colorectal surgery: first cases.

INTRODUCTION: The key benefits of robotics are improved precision and control, thanks to fully articulated robotic instruments and enhanced, stable endoscope control. However, colorectal procedures also require large movements such as medialization of the colon where a robotic platform is not always needed. We present the world's first experience in colorectal surgery with a new open platform of on-demand robotics. METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Standard laparoscopic 3-D camera, insufflator, trocars and energy devices, available in all hospitals performing laparoscopic surgery, are used in combination with the Dexter System™ from Distalmotion SA, which includes two robotic instrument arms, one robotic endoscope arm and a sterile surgeon console. We present the first 12 colorectal cases of robotic assisted ventral mesh rectopexy (n = 2), oncologic right colectomies (n = 8), transverse colectomy (n = 1) and ileocecal resection (n = 1) using the Dexter System. RESULTS: The two ventral mesh rectopexies were fully robotic, requiring no switching from standard laparoscopy to robotic assistance. The robotic platform was used for central vascular ligation (CVL) in all 8 oncologic colectomies, whereas medialization of the colon and transection was performed with standard laparoscopy. The switch from laparoscopy to robotics and back was performed in 15-30 s. Intracorporal anastomosis was performed in 4 patients (stapling by standard laparoscopy and suturing of the defect with robotic assistance). Conversion or permanent switch to standard laparoscopy was required in two patients due to visceral obesity. No robotic platform-related intraoperative adverse event occurred. No major morbidity occurred at 60 days. CONCLUSIONS: On-demand robotics is feasible and combines the best of two worlds: Robotics where precision and enhanced dexterity are required and standard laparoscopy where it is at its best. The surgeon remains scrubbed-in at all times, allowing a switch between robotics and laparoscopy within seconds.

Long-term outcomes in elderly patients after elective surgery for colorectal cancer within an ERAS protocol: a retrospective analysis.

PURPOSE: The number of elderly patients with a diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing. Considering short life expectancy and multiple comorbidities, surgery may not always be the best treatment option. METHODS: We included all consecutive patients aged 80 years and older who underwent elective resection for CRC following Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) protocol between January 2011 and May 2021. The primary endpoint was overall survival, secondary endpoints were 30-day morbidity, and the rate of return to pre-operative living conditions 3 months after surgery. RESULTS: Ninety-four patients were included. Mean age was 84.6 ± 3.6 years, 49 patients (52%) were female. Most patients (77.6%) were ASA score ≥ 3. Laparoscopic resections were performed in 85 patients (90.4%), involving 69 (73.4%) colonic and 25 (26.6%) rectal resections. A stoma was constructed in 22 patients (23%), and reversed in 12 (54.5%). Twenty-two patients (23.4%) experienced a Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3 complication, and 2 patients (2.1%) died. The median length of hospital stay was 8 (interquartiles: 6-15) days. Sixty-six patients (70.2%) were discharged home directly and 26 (27.7%) to rehabilitation or postacute care institutes. At three months after surgery, eighty-two patients (96.5%) returned to their pre-operative living conditions directly or after short-term rehabilitation. Mean follow-up was 53 ± 33 months, estimated 5-year overall survival was 60.3% (95%CI 49.5-71.1%), and disease-free survival was 86.3% (95%CI 78.1-94.4%). CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that elderly patients undergoing elective surgery have a high potential to return to preoperative living conditions and good overall- and disease-free survivals, despite significant postoperative morbidity.

[Anal cancer screening. A decade's experience of a consultation in a tertiary centre]. / Dépistage du cancer anal. Expérience d'une décennie de consultation spécialisée.

Anal cancer is a disease with a low but gradually increasing incidence, especially in developed countries. Most of these cancers are caused by the HPV. In Switzerland, more than 70 % of the sexually active population is infected with HPV at least once, making it the most common sexually transmitted disease. Immunosuppression and anal sex remain other major risk factors. Precancerous lesions can progress to anal cancer (up to 13 % at 5 years), hence the importance of early detection. High resolution anoscopy is the standard of care for diagnosis and primary treatment of lesions. It is therefore important to monitor at-risk groups and to proactively screen for gynaecological and anal HPV infection.

Le cancer anal a une incidence faible mais en constante augmentation, particulièrement dans les pays développés. Le HPV est responsable de la plupart de ces cancers. En Suisse, plus de 70 % de la population sexuellement active est infectée au moins une fois par le HPV, ce qui en fait la maladie sexuellement transmissible la plus fréquente. D'autres facteurs de risque incluent l'immunosuppression et les rapports sexuels anaux. Les lésions précancéreuses peuvent évoluer en cancer de l'anus (jusqu'à 13 % à 5 ans), justifiant l'importance d'un dépistage précoce. L'anuscopie de haute résolution est l'examen privilégié pour le diagnostic et le traitement primaire des lésions. Il est donc crucial de surveiller les groupes à risque et d'adopter une attitude proactive en matière de dépistage de l'infection HPV gynécologique et anale.

[Surgery: what's new in 2022]. / Chirurgie : ce qui a changé en 2022.

During 2022 a lot of efforts were developed to reduce health-costs by reducing complications and length of hospital stay. Same-day surgery is becoming the standard for all patients scheduled for elective surgery in CHUV. Outpatient colectomy also become a new standard. During 2022, endoscopic bariatric surgery became increasingly used. Not widely performed yet in Switzerland, these treatments deserve to be recognized and considered in various situations. Finally, 2022 saw a promising development of robotic surgery with the acquisition of Da Vinci and Dexter robots after allowing various high-precision surgical procedures.

2022 a été marquée par les efforts déployés pour réduire les coûts de la santé en diminuant les complications et en raccourcissant les durées d'hospitalisation. L'admission le jour même (Same Day Surgery (SDS)) va à moyen terme devenir le nouveau standard pour tous les patients admis pour une chirurgie en électif au CHUV, il en va de même avec le concept de la colectomie en ambulatoire. 2022 est aussi marquée par le développement de la chirurgie endoscopique bariatrique à l'échelle globale. Non encore pratiqués largement en Suisse, ces traitements méritent d'être connus et considérés dans certaines situations particulières. Finalement, 2022 voit aussi le développement de la chirurgie robotique à la suite de l'acquisition des robots Da Vinci et Dexter, permettant la réalisation de nombreuses interventions chirurgicales de haute précision.

Modest agreement between magnetic resonance and pathological tumor regression after neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer in the real world.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is routinely used for preoperative tumor staging and to assess response to therapy in rectal cancer patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate the accuracy of MRI based restaging after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in predicting pathologic response. This multicenter cohort study included adult patients with histologically confirmed locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma treated with neoadjuvant CRT followed by curative intent elective surgery between January 2014 and December 2019 at four academic high-volume institutions. Magnetic resonance tumor regression grade (mrTRG) and pathologic tumor regression grade (pTRG) were reviewed and compared for all the patients. The agreement between radiologist and pathologist was assessed with the weighted k test. Risk factors for poor agreement were investigated using logistic regression. A total of 309 patients were included. Modest agreement was found between mrTRG and pTRG when regression was classified according to standard five-tier systems (k = 0.386). When only two categories were considered for each regression system, (pTRG 0-3 vs pTRG 4; mrTRG 2-5 vs mrTRG 1) an accuracy of 78% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.73-0.83) was found between radiologic and pathologic assessment with a k value of 0.185. The logistic regression model revealed that "T3 greater than 5 mm extent" was the only variable significantly impacting on disagreement (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.15-0.68, P = .0034). Modest agreement exists between mrTRG and pTRG. The chances of appropriate assessment of the regression grade after neoadjuvant CRT appear to be higher in case of a T3 tumor with at least 5 mm extension in the mesorectal fat at the pretreatment MRI.

Intraoperative Fluid Management a Modifiable Risk Factor for Surgical Quality - Improving Standardized Practice.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine a safe zone of intraoperative fluid management associated with the lowest postoperative complication rates without increased acute kidney injury (AKi) risk for elective colorectal surgery patients. BACKGROUND: To date, standard practice within institutions, let alone national expectations related to fluid administration, are limited. This fact has perpetuated a quality gap. METHODS: Elective colorectal surgeries between 2018 and 2020 were included. Unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) for postoperative ileus, prolonged LOS, and AKi were plotted against the rate of intraoperative RL infusion (mL/ kg/h) and total intraoperative volume. Binary logistic regression analysis, including fluid volumes as a confounder, was used to identify risk factors for postoperative complications. RESULTS: A total of 2900 patients were identified. Of them, 503 (17.3%) patients had ileus, 772 (26.6%) patients had prolonged LOS, and 240 (8.3%) patients had AKI. The intraoperative fluid resuscitation rate (mg/kg/h) was less impactful on postoperative ileus, LOS, and AKI than the total amount of intraoperative fluid. A total fluid administration range between 300 mL and 2.7 L was associated with the lowest complication rate. Total intraoperative RL ≥2.7 L was independently associated with a higher risk of ileus (adjusted OR 1.465; 95% confidence interval 1.154-1.858) and prolonged LOS (adjusted OR 1.300; 95% confidence interval 1.047-1.613), but not AKI. Intraoperative RL ≤300 mL was not associated with an increased risk of AKI. CONCLUSION: Total intraoperative RL ≥2.7 L was independently associated with postoperative ileus and prolonged LOS in elective colorectal surgery patients. A new potential standard for intraoperative fluids will require anesthesia case planning (complexity and duration) to ensure total fluid volume meets this new opportunity to improve care.

Oral Antibiotics Bowel Preparation Without Mechanical Preparation for Minimally Invasive Colorectal Surgeries: Current Practice and Future Prospects.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of preoperative oral antibiotics alone compared with mechanical and oral antibiotic bowel preparation in minimally invasive surgery is still a matter of debate. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the trend of surgical site infection rates in parallel to the utilization of bowel preparation modality over time for minimally invasive colorectal surgeries in the United States. DESIGN: This study is a retrospective analysis. SETTINGS: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was the source of data for this study. PATIENTS: Adult patients who underwent elective colorectal surgery and reported bowel preparation modality were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcomes measured were the trends and the comparison of surgical site infection rates for mutually exclusive groups according to the underlying disease (colorectal cancer, IBD, and diverticular disease) who underwent bowel preparation using oral antibiotics or combined mechanical and oral antibiotic bowel preparation. Patients who underwent rectal surgery were analyzed separately. RESULTS: A total of 30,939 patients were included. Of them, 12,417 (40%) had rectal resections. Over the 7-year study period, mechanical and oral antibiotic bowel preparation utilization increased from 29.3% in 2012 to 64.0% in 2018; p < 0.0001 at the expense of no preparation and mechanical bowel preparation alone. Similarly, oral antibiotics utilization increased from 2.3% in 2012 to 5.5% in 2018; p < 0.0001. For patients with colon cancer, patients who had oral antibiotics alone had higher superficial surgical site infection rates than patients who had combined mechanical and oral antibiotic bowel preparation (1.9% vs 1.1%; p = 0.043). Superficial, deep, and organ space surgical site infection rates were similar for all other comparative colon surgery groups (cancer, IBD, and diverticular disease). Patients with rectal cancer who had oral antibiotics had higher rates of deep surgical site infection (0.9% vs 0.1%; p = 0.004). However, superficial, deep, and organ space surgical site infection rates were similar for all other comparative rectal surgery groups. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by the retrospective nature of the analysis. CONCLUSION: This study revealed widespread adoption of mechanical and oral antibiotic bowel preparation and increased adoption of oral antibiotics over the study period. Surgical site infection rates are similar from a clinical relevance standpoint among most comparative groups, questioning the systematic preoperative addition of mechanical bowel preparation to oral antibiotics alone in all patients for minimally invasive colorectal surgery. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B828 . PREPARACIN INTESTINAL CON ANTIBITICOS ORALES SIN PREPARACIN MECNICA EN CIRUGAS COLORRECTALES MNIMAMENTE INVASIVAS PRCTICA ACTUAL Y PERSPECTIVAS FUTURAS: ANTECEDENTES:La eficacia de los antibióticos orales preoperatorios solos en comparación con la preparación intestinal mecánica mas antibióticos orales en la cirugía mínimamente invasiva es un tema de debate que todavía esta en curso.OBJETIVO:Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la tendencia de las tasas de infección del sitio quirúrgico en relacion a la utilización de la modalidad de preparación intestinal a lo largo del tiempo en cirugías colorrectales mínimamente invasivas en los Estados Unidos.DISEÑO:Análisis retrospectivo.ENTORNO CLINICO:Base de datos del Programa Nacional de Mejoramiento de la Calidad Quirúrgica del Colegio Estadounidense de Cirujanos.PACIENTES:Pacientes adultos sometidos a cirugía colorrectal electiva y reportados con modalidad de preparación intestinal.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACIÓN:Tendencias y comparacion de las tasas de infección del sitio quirúrgico para grupos mutuamente excluyentes según la enfermedad subyacente (cáncer colorrectal, enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal y enfermedad diverticular) que se sometieron a preparación intestinal usando antibióticos orales exclusivamente o preparación intestinal mecánica combinada con antibióticos orales. Los pacientes que se sometieron a cirugía rectal se analizaron por separado.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron un total de 30.939 pacientes. De ellos, 12.417 (40%) se sometieron a resecciones rectales. Durante el período de estudio de siete años, la preparación mecánica del intestino y la utilización de antibióticos orales aumentó del 29,3% en 2012 al 64,0% en 2018; p < 0,0001 sobre la no preparación y de la preparación intestinal mecánica exclusivamente. De manera similar, la utilización de antibióticos orales ha aumentado del 2,3% en 2012 al 5,5% en 2018; p < 0,0001. Para los pacientes con cáncer de colon, los pacientes que recibieron antibióticos orales solos tuvieron mayores tasas de infección superficial del sitio quirúrgico en comparación con los pacientes que recibieron una preparación intestinal mecánica combinada con antibióticos orales (1,9% frente a 1,1%; p = 0,043). Las tasas de infección superficial, profundo del sitio quirúrgico y de los compartimientos intraabdominales fueron similares para todos los demás grupos de cirugía de colon (cáncer, enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal y enfermedad diverticular). Los pacientes con cáncer de recto que recibieron antibióticos orales tuvieron tasas más altas de infección profunda del sitio quirúrgico (0,9% frente a 0,1%; p = 0,004). Sin embargo, las tasas de infección del sitio quirúrgico superficial, profundo y de los compartimientos intraabdominales fueron similares comparativamente para todos los demás grupos de cirugía rectal.LIMITACIONES:Carácter retrospectivo del análisis.CONCLUSIONES:Este estudio reveló la adopción generalizada de preparación intestinal mecánica y antibióticos orales y una mayor aceptación de antibióticos orales durante el período de estudio. Las tasas de infección del sitio quirúrgico parecen ser similares desde un punto de vista de relevancia clínica entre la mayoría de los grupos comparados, lo que cuestiona la adición preoperatoria sistemática de preparación intestinal mecánica a antibióticos orales solos en todos los pacientes para cirugía colorrectal mínimamente invasiva. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B828 . (Traducción- Dr. Ingrid Melo ).

Emergent and Urgent Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis in the United States in the Minimally Invasive and Biologic Era.

BACKGROUND: Although the overall adoption of minimally invasive surgery in the nonemergent management of ulcerative colitis is established, little is known about its utilization in emergency settings. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to assess rates of urgent and emergent surgery over time in the era of emerging biologic therapies and to highlight the current practice in the United States regarding the utilization of minimally invasive surgery for urgent and emergent indications for ulcerative colitis. DESIGN: This was a retrospective analysis study. SETTINGS: Data were collected from the American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Program database. PATIENTS: All adult patients who underwent emergent or urgent colectomy for ulcerative colitis were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Rates of emergency operations over time and utilization trends of minimally invasive surgery in urgent and emergent settings were assessed. Unadjusted and adjusted overall, surgical, and medical 30-day complication rates were compared between open and minimally invasive surgery. RESULTS: A total of 2219 patients were identified. Of those, 1515 patients (68.3%) underwent surgery in an urgent setting and 704 (31.7%) as an emergency. Emergent cases decreased over time (21% in 2006 to 8% in 2018; p < 0.0001). However, the rate of urgent surgeries has not significantly changed (42% in 2011 to 46% in 2018; p = 0.44). Minimally invasive surgery was offered to 70% of patients in the urgent group (1058/1515) and 22.6% of emergent indications (159/704). Overall, minimally invasive surgery was increasingly utilized over the study period in urgent (38% in 2011 to 71% in 2018; p < 0.0001) and emergent (0% in 2005 to 42% in 2018; p < 0.0001) groups. Compared to minimally invasive surgery, open surgery was associated with a higher risk of surgical, septic, and overall complications, and prolonged hospitalization. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective nature of the analysis. CONCLUSION: Based on a nationwide analysis from the United States, minimally invasive surgery has been increasingly and safely implemented for emergent and urgent indications for ulcerative colitis. Although the sum of emergent and urgent cases remained the same over the study period, emergency cases decreased significantly over the study period, which may be related to improved medical treatment options and a collaborative, specialized team approach. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B847 . CIRUGA DE URGENCIA Y EMERGENCIA PARA LA COLITIS ULCEROSA EN LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS EN LA ERA MNIMAMENTE INVASIVA Y DE TERAPIA BIOLGICA: ANTECEDENTES:Si bien se ha establecido la adopción generalizada de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva en el tratamiento electivo de la colitis ulcerosa, se sabe poco sobre su utilización en situaciones de emergencia.OBJETIVO:Evaluar las tasas de cirugía de urgencia a lo largo del tiempo en la era de las terapias biológicas emergentes y destacar la práctica actual en los Estados Unidos con respecto a la utilización de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva para las indicaciones de urgencia y emergencia de la colitis ulcerosa.DISEÑO:Análisis retrospectivo.AJUSTES:Base de datos del Programa Nacional de Mejoramiento de la Calidad del Colegio Americano de Cirujanos.PACIENTES:Todos los pacientes adultos que se sometieron a colectomía de emergencia o urgencia por colitis ulcerosa.MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Se evaluaron las tasas de operaciones de emergencia a lo largo del tiempo y las tendencias de utilización de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva en entornos de urgencia y emergencia. Se compararon las tasas de complicaciones generales, quirúrgicas y médicas de 30 días no ajustadas y ajustadas entre la cirugía abierta y la mínimamente invasiva.RESULTADOS:Se identificaron un total de 2.219 pacientes. De ellos, 1.515 pacientes (68,3%) fueron intervenidos de urgencia y 704 (31,7%) de emergencia. Los casos emergentes disminuyeron con el tiempo (21% en 2006 a 8% en 2018; p <0,0001). Sin embargo, la tasa de cirugías urgentes no ha cambiado significativamente (42% en 2011 a 46% en 2018, p = 0,44). Se ofreció cirugía mínimamente invasiva al 70% de los pacientes del grupo urgente (1.058 / 1.515) y al 22,6% de las emergencias (159/704). En general, la cirugía mínimamente invasiva se utilizó cada vez más durante el período de estudio en grupos urgentes (38% en 2011 a 71% en 2018; p <0,0001) y emergentes (0% en 2005 a 42% en 2018; p <0,0001). En comparación con la cirugía mínimamente invasiva, la cirugía abierta se asoció con un mayor riesgo de complicaciones generales, quirúrgicas, sépticas y hospitalización prolongada.LIMITACIONES:Carácter retrospectivo del análisis.CONCLUSIÓNES:Basado en un análisis nacional de los Estados Unidos, la cirugía mínimamente invasiva se ha implementado de manera creciente y segura para las indicaciones emergentes y urgentes de la colitis ulcerosa. Si bien la suma de casos emergentes y urgentes permaneció igual durante el período de estudio, los casos de emergencia disminuyeron significativamente, lo que puede estar relacionado con mejores opciones de tratamiento médico y un enfoque de equipo colaborativo y especializado. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B847 . (Traducción-Dr. Felipe Bellolio ).

Re-resection of Microscopically Positive Margins Found on Intraoperative Frozen Section Analysis Does Not Result in a Survival Benefit in Patients Undergoing Surgery and Intraoperative Radiation Therapy for Locally Recurrent Rectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND: Intraoperative frozen-section analysis provides real-time margin resection status that can guide intraoperative decisions made by the surgeon and radiation oncologist. For patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer undergoing surgery and intraoperative radiation therapy, intraoperative re-resection of positive margins to achieve negative margins is common practice. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess whether re-resection of positive margins found on intraoperative frozen-section analysis improves oncologic outcomes. DESIGN: This is a retrospective cohort study. SETTINGS: This study was an analysis of a prospectively maintained multicenter database. PATIENTS: All patients who underwent surgical resection of locally recurrent rectal cancer with intraoperative radiation therapy between 2000 and 2015 were included and followed for 5 years. Three groups were compared: initial R0 resection, initial R1 converted to R0 after re-resection, and initial R1 that remained R1 after re-resection. Grossly positive margin resections (R2) were excluded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome measures were 5-year overall survival, recurrence-free survival, and local re-recurrence. RESULTS: A total of 267 patients were analyzed (initial R0 resection, n = 94; initial R1 converted to R0 after re-resection, n = 95; initial R1 that remained R1 after re-resection, n = 78). Overall survival was 4.4 years for initial R0 resection, 2.7 years for initial R1 converted to R0 after re-resection, and 2.9 years for initial R1 that remained R1 after re-resection ( p = 0.01). Recurrence-free survival was 3.0 years for initial R0 resection and 1.8 years for both initial R1 converted to R0 after re-resection and initial R1 that remained R1 after re-resection ( p ≤ 0.01). Overall survival did not differ for patients with R1 and re-resection R1 or R0 ( p = 0.62). Recurrence-free survival and freedom from local re-recurrence did not differ between groups. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by the heterogeneous patient population restricted to those receiving intraoperative radiation therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Re-resection of microscopically positive margins to obtain R0 status does not appear to provide a significant survival advantage or prevent local re-recurrence in patients undergoing surgery and intraoperative radiation therapy for locally recurrent rectal cancer. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B886 . LA RERESECCIN DE LOS MRGENES MICROSCPICAMENTE POSITIVOS ENCONTRADOS DE MANERA INTRAOPERATORIA MEDIANTE LA TCNICA DE CRIOSECCIN, NO DA COMO RESULTADO UN BENEFICIO DE SUPERVIVENCIA EN PACIENTES SOMETIDOS A CIRUGA Y RADIOTERAPIA INTRAOPERATORIA PARA EL CNCER RECTAL LOCALMENTE RECIDIVANTE: ANTECEDENTES:El análisis de la ténica de criosección para los margenes positivos encontrados de manera intraoperatoria proporciona el estado de la resección del margen en tiempo real que puede guiar las decisiones intraoperatorias tomadas por el cirujano y el oncólogo radioterapeuta. Para los pacientes con cáncer de recto localmente recurrente que se someten a cirugía y radioterapia intraoperatoria, la re-resección intraoperatoria de los márgenes positivos para lograr márgenes negativos es una práctica común.OBJETIVO:Evaluar si la re-resección de los márgenes positivos encontrados en el análisis de la ténica por criosecciónde manera intraoperatorios mejora los resultados oncológicos.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.AJUSTES:Análisis de una base de datos multicéntrica mantenida de forma prospectiva.POBLACIÓN:Todos los pacientes que se sometieron a resección quirúrgica de cáncer de recto localmente recurrente con radioterapia intraoperatoria entre 2000 y 2015 fueron incluidos y seguidos durante 5 años. Se compararon tres grupos: resección inicial R0, R1 inicial convertido en R0 después de la re-resección y R1 inicial que permaneció como R1 después de la re-resección. Se excluyeron las resecciones de márgenes macroscópicamente positivos (R2).PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Supervivencia global a cinco años, supervivencia sin recidiva y recidiva local.RESULTADOS:Se analizaron un total de 267 pacientes (resección inicial R0 n = 94, R1 inicial convertido en R0 después de la re-resección n = 95, R1 inicial que permaneció como R1 después de la re-resección n = 78). La supervivencia global fue de 4,4 años para la resección inicial R0, 2,7 años para la R1 inicial convertida en R0 después de la re-resección y 2,9 años para la R1 inicial que permaneció como R1 después de la re-resección ( p = 0,01). La supervivencia libre de recurrencia fue de 3,0 años para la resección inicial R0 y de 1,8 años para el R1 inicial convertido en R0 después de la re-resección y el R1 inicial que permaneció como R1 después de la re-resección ( p ≤ 0,01). La supervivencia global no difirió para los pacientes con R1 y re-resección R1 o R0 ( p = 0,62). La supervivencia libre de recurrencia y la ausencia de recurrencia local no difirieron entre los grupos.LIMITACIONES:Población de pacientes heterogénea, restringida a aquellos que reciben radioterapia intraoperatoria.CONCLUSIONES:La re-resección de los márgenes microscópicamente positivos para obtener el estado R0 no parece proporcionar una ventaja de supervivencia significativa o prevenir la recurrencia local en pacientes sometidos a cirugía y radioterapia intraoperatoria para el cáncer de recto localmente recurrente. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B886 . (Traducción-Dr. Daniel Guerra ).

Trends and consequences of surgical conversion in the United States.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to identify national utilization trends of robotic surgery for elective colectomy, conversion rates over time, and the specific impact of conversion on postoperative morbidity. Conversion to open represents a hard endpoint for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and is associated with worse outcomes when compared to MIS or even traditional open procedures. METHODS: All adult patients who underwent either laparoscopic or robotic elective colectomy from 2013 to 2018 as reported in the American College of Surgeons Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database were included. National trends of both robotic utilization and conversion rates were analyzed, overall and according to underlying disease (benign disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), cancer), or the presence of obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2). Demographic and surgical risk factors for surgical conversion to open were identified through multivariable regression analysis. Further assessed were overall and specific postoperative 30-day complications, which were risk adjusted and compared between converted patients and the remaining cohort. RESULTS: Of 66,652 included procedures, 5353 (8.0%) were converted to open. Conversion rates were 8.5% for laparoscopic and 4.9% for robotic surgery (p < 0.0001). A decline in conversion rates over the 6-year inclusion period was observed overall and for patients with obesity. This trend paralleled an increased utilization of the robotic platform. Several surrogates for advanced disease stages for cancer, diverticulitis, and IBD and prolonged surgical duration were identified as independent risk factors for unplanned conversion, while robotic approach was an independent protective factor (OR 0.44, p < 0.0001). Patients who had unplanned conversion were more likely to experience postoperative complications (OR 2.36; 95% CI [2.21-2.51]), length of hospital stay ≥ 6 days (OR 2.86; 95% CI [2.67-3.05], and 30-day mortality (OR 2.28; 95% CI [1.72-3.02]). CONCLUSION: This nationwide study identified a decreasing trend in conversion rates over the 6-year inclusion period, both overall and in patients with obesity, paralleling increased utilization of the robotic platform. Unplanned conversion to open was associated with a higher risk of postoperative complications.

[Obstructed colon cancer: which strategy in 2022?] / Cancer colique en occlusion : quelle prise en charge en 2022 ?

The key priority for obstructed colon cancer (OCC) is urgent resolution of the large bowel obstruction with ideally no compromise of oncological outcomes and low initial and permanent ostomy rates. Proactive management is pivotal to decrease the risk of perforation and septic shock. Staged procedures have an important place to provide optimal treatment and offer similar treatment and outcomes as in the elective setting. The approach is tailored to the patient's condition, the oncological situation and expertise of the available surgical team. This overview concludes by proposing a comprehensive treatment algorithm for individualized treatment of OCC.

La principale priorité du cancer du côlon obstructif (CCO) est la levée urgente de l'obstacle colique, sans compromettre les résultats oncologiques tout en réduisant les taux de stomies initiales et permanentes. Une prise en charge proactive est essentielle pour minimiser le risque de perforation et de choc septique. Les procédures par étapes (staged procedures) ont une place primordiale afin de permettre un traitement optimal associé à des résultats proches des conditions de la chirurgie élective. L'approche doit être adaptée à l'état des patients, au stade oncologique, ainsi qu'à l'expertise chirurgicale disponible. Cette synthèse de la littérature se conclut par la proposition d'un algorithme pour le traitement individualisé du CCO.

Survival impact of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with stage IIA colon cancer: Analysis of the National Cancer Database.

Utility of adjuvant chemotherapy for stage II cancer remains a matter of debate. Clinical guidelines suggest adjuvant chemotherapy for stage II tumors with high-risk features, in particular T4 tumors. However, limited consensus exists regarding the importance of other high-risk features (lymphovascular or perineural invasion, microsatellite instability). Our study aimed to investigate the impact of adjuvant chemotherapy for stage IIA (T3N0) colon cancer patients. Patients who underwent colectomy for stage IIA colon adenocarcinoma (2010-2015) were identified in the National Cancer Database (NCDB) and divided in two groups based on receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy vs observation. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW)-adjusted Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to compare overall survival between the two groups. Subgroup analysis of patients with specific high-risk features LVI, PNI and MSI was performed. Among 46 688 surgical patients with stage IIA colon adenocarcinoma 5937 (12.7%) received adjuvant chemotherapy, while 40 751 (87.3%) were observed. Five-year IPTW-adjusted survival was higher in the adjuvant chemotherapy group (79.7% [95% CI 79.1, 80.2]) compared to the observation group (70.3% [95% CI 69.7, 70.9]). Patients with high-risk pathological features showed an estimated 5-year survival benefit of 11.3% (78.2% [95% CI 77.4, 79.1] vs 66.9% [95% CI 65.9, 67.8]) when treated with adjuvant chemotherapy. This NCDB analysis revealed a survival benefit for patients with stage IIA colon adenocarcinoma and high-risk features that were treated with adjuvant chemotherapy.

Robotic Surgery for Rectal Cancer Provides Advantageous Outcomes Over Laparoscopic Approach: Results From a Large Retrospective Cohort.

OBJECTIVE: To compare short term outcomes of patients undergoing laparoscopic or robotic rectal cancer surgery. BACKGROUND: Significant benefits of robotic rectal cancer surgery over laparoscopy have yet to be demonstrated. Operative time and direct institutional cost seem in favor of the laparoscopic approach. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of consecutive patients operated on for rectal cancer with a mini-invasive approach at Mayo Clinic from 2005 to 2018. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the difference in postoperative morbidity between the laparoscopic and robotic approach. Multivariable models for odds to complications and prolonged (≥6 days) length of stay were built. RESULTS: A total of 600 patients were included in the analysis. The number of patients undergoing robotic surgery was 317 (52.8%). The 2 groups were similar in respect to age, sex, and body mass index. Laparoscopic surgery was correlated to shorter operative time (214 vs 324 minutes; P < 0.001). Patients undergoing robotic surgery had a lower overall complications rate (37.2% vs 51.2%; P < 0.001). Robotic surgery was found to be the most protective factor [odds ratio (OR) 0.485; P = 0.006] for odds to complications. The event of a complication (OR 9.33; P < 0.001) and conversion to open surgery (OR 3.095; P = 0.002) were identified as risk factors for prolonged length of stay whereas robotic surgery (OR 0.62; P = 0.027) was the only independent protective factor. CONCLUSIONS: Robotic rectal cancer surgery is strongly associated with better short-term outcomes over laparoscopic surgery.

Surgical Approach to Transverse Colon Cancer: Analysis of Current Practice and Oncological Outcomes Using the National Cancer Database.

BACKGROUND: Surgical treatment for transverse colon cancer involves either extended colectomy or segmental resection, depending on the location of the tumor and surgeon perspective. However, the oncological safety of segmental resection has not yet been established in large cohort studies. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare segmental resection versus extended colectomy for transverse colon cancer in terms of oncological outcomes. DESIGN: This was a retrospective cohort study. SETTINGS: This study was conducted using a nationwide cohort. PATIENTS: A total of 66,062 patients who underwent colectomy with curative intent for transverse stage I to III adenocarcinoma were identified in the National Cancer Database (2004-2015). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Patients were divided in 2 groups based on the type of surgery received (extended versus segmental resection). The primary outcome was overall survival. Secondary outcomes were 30- and 90-day mortality, length of hospital stay, and readmission rate within 30 days of surgical discharge. RESULTS: Extended colectomy was performed in 44,417 (67.2%) patients, whereas 21,645 (32.8%) patients underwent segmental resection. Extended colectomy was associated with lower survival at multivariate analysis (HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04-1.10; p < 0.001). The subgroup analysis showed that extended resection was independently associated with poorer survival in mid transverse colon cancers (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04-1.12; p < 0.001) and in stage III tumors (HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.04-1.18; p < 0.001). The number of at least 12 harvested lymph nodes was an independent predictor of improved survival in both overall and subgroup analyses. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective design. CONCLUSION: Extended colectomy was not associated with a survival advantage compared with segmental resection. On the contrary, extended colectomy was associated with slightly poorer survival in mid transverse cancers and locally advanced tumors. Segmental resection was found to be safe when appropriate margins and adequate lymph node harvest were achieved. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B454. ABORDAJE QUIRRGICO DEL CNCER DE COLON TRANSVERSO ANLISIS DE LA PRCTICA ACTUAL Y LOS RESULTADOS ONCOLGICOS UTILIZANDO LA BASE DE DATOS NACIONAL DE CNCER: ANTECEDENTES:El tratamiento quirúrgico para el cáncer de colon transverso implica colectomía extendida o resección segmentaria, según la ubicación del tumor y la perspectiva del cirujano. Sin embargo, la seguridad oncológica de la resección segmentaria aún no se ha establecido en estudios de cohortes grandes.OBJETIVO:Este estudio tiene como objetivo comparar la resección segmentaria versus la colectomía extendida para el cáncer de colon transverso en términos de resultados oncológicos.DISEÑO:Este fue un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.ESCENARIO:Este estudio se realizó utilizando una cohorte a nivel nacional.PACIENTES:Un total de 66,062 pacientes que se sometieron a colectomía con intención curativa por adenocarcinoma de colon transverso en estadio I-III fueron identificados en la Base de Datos Nacional del Cáncer (2004-2015).PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Los pacientes se dividieron en dos grupos según el tipo de cirugía recibida (resección extendida versus resección segmentaria). El resultado primario fue la supervivencia global. Los resultados secundarios fueron la mortalidad a los 30 y 90 días, la duración de la estancia hospitalaria y la tasa de reingreso dentro de los 30 días posteriores al alta quirúrgica.RESULTADOS:Se realizó colectomía extendida en 44,417 (67.2%) casos, mientras que 21,645 (32.8%) pacientes fueron sometidos a resección segmentaria. La colectomía extendida se asoció con una menor supervivencia en el análisis multivariado (HR 1.07 IC 95% 1.04-1.10; p <0.001). El análisis de subgrupos mostró que la resección extendida se asoció de forma independiente con una menor supervivencia en los cánceres de colon transverso medio (HR 1.08 IC 95% 1.04-1.12; p <0.001) y en tumores en estadio III (HR 1.11 IC 95% 1.04-1.18; p <0.001). Un número de al menos 12 ganglios linfáticos cosechados fue un predictor independiente de una mejor supervivencia en los análisis general y de subgrupos.LIMITACIONES:Este estudio estuvo limitado por su diseño retrospectivo.CONCLUSIÓN:La colectomía extendida no se asoció con una ventaja de supervivencia en comparación con la resección segmentaria. Por el contrario, la colectomía extendida se asoció con una supervivencia levemente menor en cánceres de colon transverso medio y tumores localmente avanzados. Se encontró que la resección segmentaria es segura cuando se logran los márgenes apropiados y la cosecha adecuada de ganglios linfáticos. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B454.

Cost drivers of locally advanced rectal cancer treatment-An analysis of a leading healthcare insurer.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the economic burden of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) treatment from a society perspective through analysis of health insurance-derived data of commercially insured and Medicare Advantage (MA) patients. METHODS: Retrospective cost analysis of patients undergoing rectal resection within a multimodal (neoadjuvant chemoradiation + adjuvant chemotherapy) treatment strategy between January 1, 2010 and October 31, 2018, using the claims OptumLabs Data Warehouse database. RESULTS: In total, 1738 (935 commercial and 803 MA) patients were included. Overall treatment costs totaled $230,881,746 (on average $183 653 ± 82 384 per commercially insured and $73 681 ± 32 917 per MA patient). Cost distribution according to category (commercially insured patients) was: 29.92% related to outpatient care (follow-up visits/diagnostics), radiotherapy: 21.83%, index resection: 20.62%, chemotherapy: 17.44%, surgical inpatient: 6.32%, medical inpatient: 3.28%, emergency room: 0.58%. Relative cost distribution of the index resection itself differed marginally between the three approaches and was 21.49% for open, 19.30% for laparoscopic, and 20.93% for robotic surgery. Relative cost distributions of neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and outpatient treatments remained unchanged, independently of the surgical approach. This representation was similar in MA patients. CONCLUSION: Index-surgery related costs were outweighed by costs related to oncological and outpatient workup/follow-up treatments independently of both surgical approach and insurance type.

Crohn's versus Cancer: Comparison of Functional and Surgical Outcomes after Right-Sided Resections.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to compare functional and surgical outcomes of patients undergoing ileocecal resection for Crohn's disease (CD) to patients undergoing oncological right colectomy. METHODS: Retrospective single-center cohort study including consecutive patients undergoing right colectomy for adenocarcinoma (oncological resection) or CD (mesentery-sparing resection) between July 2011 and November 2017. Outcome measures were pathological details (lymph node yield), postoperative recovery (pain levels, return to flatus and stool, intake of fluids, weight change, and mobilization), and early (30-day) outcomes (surgical/medical complications, hospital stay, readmissions). RESULTS: A total of 195 patients (153 [78%] with cancer and 42 [22%] with CD) were included. Overall compliance with the institutional enhanced recovery protocol was comparable between the 2 groups (compliance ≥70%: 60% in CD patients vs. 62% in cancer, p = 0.458). The adenocarcinoma group had a larger lymph node yield than the CD group (26 ± 13 vs. 2.4 ± 5, respectively, p < 0.001). While the CD group experienced significantly more pain (3.7 ± 1.9/10 vs. 2.8 ± 2.5/10, p = 0.007, patients requiring opioids: 65 vs. 28%, p = 0.001), return of flatus (2.3 ± 1.2 days vs. 2.4 ± 2.8 days, p = 0.642) and stool (4.1 ± 6.0 vs. 3.0 ± 1.8 days, p = 0.292) was no different in both groups. No difference was observed regarding postoperative complications, length of stay, and readmission rate. CONCLUSION: This study revealed no differences in both functional and surgical outcomes in CD and cancer patients undergoing mesentery-sparing or formal oncological right colectomy, respectively.

Surgical Resection for Crohn's and Cancer: A Comparison of Disease-Specific Risk Factors and Outcomes.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The goal of this study was to compare disease-specific risk factors and 30-day outcomes between patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and colon cancer (CC) undergoing right-sided surgical resection. METHODS: The American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP®) was interrogated to extract all patients ≥18 years undergoing elective right-sided resection for CD versus CC. Independent risk factors for surgical complications were identified through multivariable logistic regression for both groups. In a second step, surgical and medical 30-day morbidity was compared after risk adjustment. RESULTS: The cohort consisted of 17,516 patients, of which 2,899 (16.6%) underwent surgery for CD versus 14,617 (83.4%) for CC. Independent risk factors for surgical complications in patients with CD were male gender, African American race, ASA score (III or IV), active smoking, prolonged surgery, and preoperative anemia. Independent risk factors for surgical complications in the cancer group were age ≥70 years, male gender, ASA score (III or IV), respiratory and cardiovascular comorbidities, and preoperative hypoalbuminemia (<3.5 g/dL). After risk adjustment, surgical complications (OR 1.25, p = 0.002), sepsis (OR 1.64, p = 0.012), and unplanned readmissions (OR 1.39, p = 0.004) were more common in patients with CD. Thirty-day mortality was higher in cancer patients (1.1 vs. 0.1%, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with Crohn's disease were more prone to surgical complications and postoperative sepsis compared to the cancer group undergoing the same procedure. Careful evaluation and correction of disease-specific modifiable risk factors of patients with CD and CC, respectively, are important.

Minimally invasive ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for patients with obesity: a propensity score-matched analysis.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a risk factor for failure of pouch surgery completion. However, little is known about the impact of obesity on short-term outcomes after minimally invasive (MIS) ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA). This study aimed to assess short-term postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing MIS total proctocolectomy (TPC) with IPAA in patients with and without obesity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All adult patients (≥ 18 years old) who underwent MIS IPAA as reported in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) Participant User Files 2007 to 2018 were included. Patients were divided according to their body mass index (BMI) into two groups (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 vs. BMI < 30 kg/m2). Baseline demographics, preoperative risk factors including comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists Class, smoking, different preoperative laboratory parameters, and operation time were compared between the two groups. Propensity score matching (1:1) based on logistic regression with a caliber distance of 0.2 of the standard deviation of the logit of the propensity score was used to overcome biases due to different distributions of the covariates. Thirty-day postoperative complications including overall surgical and medical complications, surgical site infection (SSI), organ space infection, systemic sepsis, 30-day mortality, and length of stay were compared between both groups. RESULTS: Initially, a total of 2158 patients (402 (18.6%) obese and 1756 (81.4%) nonobese patients) were identified. After 1:1 matching, 402 patients remained in each group. Patients with obesity had a higher risk of postoperative organ/space infection (12.9%; vs. 6.5%; p-value 0.002) compared to nonobese patients. There was no difference between the groups regarding the risk of postoperative sepsis, septic shock, need for blood transfusion, wound disruption, superficial SSI, deep SSI, respiratory, renal, major adverse cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiac arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation), venous thromboembolism, 30-day mortality, and length of stay. CONCLUSION: MIS IPAA can be safely performed in patients with obesity. However, patients with obesity have a 2-fold risk of organ space infection compared to patients without obesity. Loss of weight before MIS IPAA is recommended not only to allow for pouch creation but also to decrease organ space infections.