Patient and disease characteristics, treatment practices and oncologic outcomes among patients with colorectal cancer: a population-based analysis.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing among young adults. We sought to report on patient and disease characteristics, treatment practice patterns and outcomes in this population. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using administrative health data from the Alberta Cancer Registry (2004-2015), including demographic and tumour characteristics, and treatment received. Outcome measures included overall and cancer-specific deaths. We used Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier curves to assess for factors associated with survival. RESULTS: We included 18 070 patients with CRC (n = 1583 [8.8%] < 50 yr, n = 16 487 [91.2 %] ≥ 50 yr). Younger patients were more likely to present with locally advanced disease (21.0% v. 18.0%, p < 0.0001), stage III (16.4 % v. 14.6%, p < 0.0001) or metastatic (16.7% v. 13.8%, p < 0.0001) involvement. Younger patients were more likely to receive surgery (87.2% v. 80.9%, p < 0.0001), chemotherapy (59.6% v. 34.1%, p < 0.0001) or radiation therapy (49.5% v. 37.2%, p < 0.001). At 5 years, overall and cancer-specific survival was better among younger patients than older patients (30.6% v. 51.5% overall deaths, 27.5% v. 38.4% cancer-specific deaths, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Despite higher stage and higher grade disease, young patients with CRC had more favourable oncologic outcomes than stage-matched older patients, which may be related to younger patients receiving more aggressive treatment. Further investigation should focus on optimal treatment patterns for young patients with CRC.

Improved Survival in a Cohort of Patients Aged 75 Years and Older With Fecal Immunochemical Testing-Detected Colorectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND: Fecal immunochemical testing is an accepted form of colorectal cancer screening and is recommended for adults up to the age of 75 years in Canadian guidelines. However, many individuals 75 years and older continue to receive fecal immunochemical testing despite being outside accepted guidelines. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine whether patients aged 75 years and older with screen-detected cancer demonstrated improved outcomes and survival compared with patients with non-screen-detected cancer. DESIGN: This is a retrospective population-based cohort study. SETTINGS: Provincial data were collected from the Alberta Cancer Registry and the Alberta Colorectal Cancer Screening Program between November 2013 and 2019. PATIENTS: We identified an aggregated patient cohort aged 75 years and older with a diagnosis of colorectal cancer from November 2013 to November 2019, as well as patients 75 years and older who underwent fecal immunochemical testing within these dates. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The proportion of screen-detected colorectal cancers was calculated. Surgical intervention, hospital length of stay, postoperative mortality, and overall survival were analyzed. RESULTS: Between November 2013 and 2019, 3586 patients 75 years and older were diagnosed with colorectal cancer; 690 (19%) were "screen-detected." Screen-detected patients were almost 3 times more likely to undergo surgery (OR, 2.83) and had a 36% overall survival benefit (HR, 0.64) compared with non-screen-detected patients, adjusted for other variables such as age, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and stage. LIMITATIONS: The retrospective study design prevents conclusions regarding causation. CONCLUSIONS: Screen detection of colorectal cancer in patients aged 75 years and older is associated with improved overall survival when controlling for other potential confounders. When compared with their non-screen-detected counterparts, these patients have an earlier stage of disease and are more likely to undergo surgical intervention with improved outcomes, irrespective of age. These data may support screening for appropriately selected patients who would otherwise fall outside of current guidelines. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B986 . SOBREVIDA MEJORADA EN UNA COHORTE DE PACIENTES DE AOS O MS CON CNCER COLORRECTAL DETECTADOS POR RIF: ANTECEDENTES:La prueba basada en una Reacción Inmunoquímica Fecal - RIF, es una forma aceptada de detección de cáncer colorrectal y esta recomendada en adultos a partir de los 75 años en las guías canadienses. Sin embargo, muchas personas de 75 años o más continúan realizándose pruebas inmunoquímicas fecales a pesar de estar fuera de las guías aceptadas.OBJETIVO:Poder determinar si los pacientes de 75 años o más con detección RIF positiva a un cáncer demuestran mejores resultados y sobrevida comparados con los pacientes sin detección.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohortes retrospectivo basado en una población definida.CONFIGURACIÓN:Se recopilaron los datos provinciales del Registro de cánceres y del Programa de detección de cáncer colorrectal de Alberta, Canada, entre 2013 y 2019.PACIENTES:Identificamos una cohorte agregada de pacientes de 75 años o más con diagnóstico de cáncer colorrectal desde noviembre de 2013 hasta noviembre de 2019, así como pacientes de 75 años o más que se sometieron a pruebas inmunoquímicas fecales dentro de las fechas mencionadas.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Se calculó la proporción de cánceres colorrectales detectados mediante un cribado. Se analizaron la intervención quirúrgica, la duración de la estadía hospitalaria, la mortalidad post-operatoria y la sobrevida global.RESULTADOS:Entre noviembre de 2013 y noviembre 2019, 3586 pacientes de 75 años o más, fueron diagnosticados con cáncer colorrectal; 690 (19%) fueron detectados por cribado. Los pacientes detectados mediante el cribado, tenían casi tres veces más probabilidades de someterse a una cirugía (Razón de Probabilidad de 2,83) y beneficiaron de una sobrevida general del 36 % (HR 0,64) comparados con los pacientes sin detectación por cribado, corregidos por otras variables como la edad, el índice de comorbilidad de Charlson y el estadío del tumor.LIMITACIONES:El diseño retrospective del presente estudio impide obtener conclusiones con respecto a la causalidad.CONCLUSIONES:La detección por cribado de cáncer colorrectal en pacientes de 75 años o más se asocia con una mejor sobrevida general cuando se controlan los otros posibles factores de confusión. Comparando con las contrapartes no detectadas por cribado, estos pacientes se encuentran en una etapa más temprana de la enfermedad y es más probable que se sometan a una intervención quirúrgica con mejores resultados, independientemente a la edad. Estos datos pueden respaldar la detección de pacientes adecuadamente seleccionados que, de otro modo, quedarían fuera de las pautas actuales. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B986 . (Traducción-Dr. Xavier Delgadillo ).

Self-Expanding Metal Stents Do Not Adversely Affect Long-term Outcomes in Acute Malignant Large-Bowel Obstruction: A Retrospective Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Self-expanding metal stents as a bridge to surgery in acute malignant large-bowel obstruction has gained popularity. However, long-term oncologic outcomes have not been well established. OBJECTIVE: To investigate long-term oncologic outcomes of patients undergoing curative resection after the placement of a colonic stent compared with emergency surgery for acute malignant large-bowel obstruction. DESIGN: This is a retrospective study. SETTING: All patients presenting at 3 tertiary care centers between April 2002 and December 2012 with a diagnosis of complete malignant large-bowel obstruction were reviewed. Patients with disease distal to the hepatic flexure were selected for analysis. PATIENTS: One hundred twenty-two patients who underwent either emergency surgery or placement of a colonic stent with curative intent were included. INTERVENTIONS: Patients receiving emergency surgery within 24 hours of presenting with obstructive symptoms, including those with failed stents, were included in the emergency surgery group. All patients with clinically successful stent deployment before surgery were included in the stent group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Overall survival and disease-free survival were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS: Sixty-four patients underwent emergency surgery, and 58 patients underwent placement of a self-expanding metal stent. Groups were similar in terms of sex, tumor stage and grade, and Charlson and Charlson-Age Comorbidity Index scores. Patients in the surgery group were older than patients in the stent group. There were no differences in the number of lymph nodes harvested, positive nodes, rates of vascular and perineural invasion, or utilization of chemotherapy. Thirty-day mortality after resection was similar between groups (7.41% vs 4.41%; p > 0.05). Patients who underwent colonic stenting as a bridge to surgery had similar 10-year overall survival (40.5% vs 32.7%; p = 0.13) and 10-year disease-free survival (40.2% vs 33.8%; p = 0.26) compared with those who underwent emergency surgery. Similar results were seen on intention-to-treat analysis. LIMITATIONS: This was a small retrospective study. CONCLUSIONS: Stent insertion followed by oncologic resection is associated with similar overall survival and disease-free survival compared with emergency resection. Stent insertion as a bridge to surgery should be considered in patients presenting with malignant colorectal obstruction. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B714Los Stents Metálicos Autoexpandibles No Afectan Negativamente Los Resultados A Largo Plazo En La Obstrucción Maligna Aguda Del Colon: Un Análisis Retrospectivo. ANTECEDENTES: Los stents metálicos autoexpandibles como puente a una cirugía en la obstrucción maligna aguda del colon han ganado popularidad. Sin embargo, no se han establecido bien los resultados oncológicos a largo plazo. OBJETIVO: Investigar los resultados oncológicos a largo plazo de los pacientes sometidos a resección curativa después de la colocación de un stent colónico en comparación con la cirugía de urgencia para la obstrucción maligna aguda del colon. DISEO: Estudio retrospectivo. MBITO: Entre abril de 2002 y diciembre de 2012, se revisaron todos los pacientes que acudieron a tres centros de tercer nivel con un diagnóstico de obstrucción maligna completa del colon. Se seleccionaron para el análisis los pacientes con enfermedad distal al ángulo hepático. PACIENTES: Se incluyeron 122 pacientes que fueron operados de urgencia o a una colocación de un stent colónico con intención curativa. PROCEDIMIENTOS: Los pacientes que se sometieron a cirugía de urgencia dentro de las 24 horas posteriores a la presentación de síntomas obstructivos; se incluyeron aquellos con stents fallidos en el grupo de cirugía de urgencia. Todos los pacientes con colocación clínicamente exitosa del stent antes de la cirugía se incluyeron en el grupo de stent. PRINCIPALES VARIABLES ANALIZADAS: La sobrevida global y la sobrevida libre de enfermedad se calcularon mediante el método de Kaplan-Meier. RESULTADOS: Sesenta y cuatro pacientes fueron llevados a cirugía urgente y en 58 pacientes se colocó de un stent metálico autoexpandible. Los grupos fueron similares en relación a sexo, estadio y grado del tumor, puntuación de comorbilidad de Charlson y Charlson-Age. Los pacientes del grupo de cirugía eran mayores que los del grupo de stents. No hubo diferencias en el número de ganglios linfáticos recolectados, ganglios positivos, tasas de invasión vascular y perineural o utilización de quimioterapia. La mortalidad a los 30 días después de la resección fue similar entre los grupos (7,41% frente a 4,41%; p> 0,05). Los pacientes que se sometieron a la colocación de un stent colónico como puente a la cirugía tuvieron una sobrevida general a diez años similar (40,5% vs 32,7%; p = 0,13) y una sobrevida libre de enfermedad a diez años (40,2% vs 33,8%, respectivamente; p = 0,26) en comparación a los operados de urgencia. Se observaron resultados similares en el análisis por intención de tratamiento. LIMITACIONES: Estudio retrospectivo reducido. CONCLUSIONES: La utilización de un stent y posteriormente la resección oncológica se asocia a una sobrevida general y una sobrevida libre de enfermedad similar en comparación con la resección de urgencia. La utilización de un stent como puente a la cirugía debe considerarse en pacientes que presentan obstrucción colorrectal maligna. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B714. (Traducción-Dr. Lisbeth Alarcon-Bernes).

Classic and Novel Histopathologic Risk Factors for Lymph Node Metastasis in T1 Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of endoscopically resected T1 colorectal cancers is based on the risk of lymph node metastasis. Risk is based on histopathologic features, although there is lack of consensus as to what constitutes high-risk features. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of histopathologic risk factors for lymph node metastasis. DATA SOURCES: A search of MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane controlled register of trials for risk factors for lymph node metastasis was performed from inception until August 2018. STUDY SELECTION: Included patients must have had an oncologic resection to confirm lymph node status and reported at least 1 histopathologic risk factor. INTERVENTION: Rates of lymph node positivity were compared between patients with and without risk factors. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: We report the results of the meta-analysis as ORs. RESULTS: Of 8592 citations, 60 met inclusion criteria. Pooled analyses found that lymphovascular invasion, vascular invasion, neural invasion, and poorly differentiated histology were significantly associated with lymph node metastasis, as were depths of 1000 µm (OR = 2.76), 1500 µm (OR = 4.37), 2000 µm (OR = 2.37), submucosal level 3 depth (OR = 3.08), and submucosal level 2/3 (OR = 3.08) depth. Depth of 3000 µm, Haggitt level 4, and widths of 3000 µm and 4000 µm were not significantly associated with lymph node metastasis. Tumor budding (OR = 4.99) and poorly differentiated clusters (OR = 14.61) were also significantly associated with lymph node metastasis. LIMITATIONS: Included studies reported risk factors independently, making it impossible to examine the additive metastasis risk in patients with numerous risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: We identified 1500 µm as the depth most significantly associated with lymph node metastasis. Novel factors tumor budding and poorly differentiated clusters were also significantly associated with lymph node metastasis. These findings should help inform guidelines regarding risk stratification of T1 tumors and prompt additional investigation into the exact contribution of poorly differentiated clusters to lymph node metastasis.

Efficacy of perioperative chemotherapy in resected colorectal liver metastasis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Nearly half of patients with colorectal cancer develop liver metastases. Radical resection of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) offers the best chance of cure, significantly improving 5-year survival. Recurrence of metastatic disease is common, occurring in 60 % or more of patients. Clinical equipoise exists regarding the role of perioperative chemotherapy in patients with resected CRLM. This investigation sought to clarify the efficacy of perioperative chemotherapy in patients that have undergone curative-intent resection of CRLM. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis was completed of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing perioperative chemotherapy to surgery alone in patients with resected CRLM. MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases were searched, as well as abstracts from recent oncology conferences. A meta-analysis was performed pooling the hazard ratios for disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), using a random-effects model. RESULTS: A total of five, phase 3, open-label, RCTs were included resulting in a pooled analysis of 1119 of the total 1146 enrolled patients. 559 patients were randomized to perioperative chemotherapy and 560 to surgery alone. Pooled estimates demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in DFS (HR 0.71, 95 % CI: 0.61-0.82; p < 0.001) but not OS (HR 0.87, 95 % CI: 0.73-1.04; p = 0.136). CONCLUSION: Perioperative chemotherapy in the setting of resected CRLM resulted in an improvement in DFS, however this did not translate into an OS benefit. Poor compliance to post-hepatectomy oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy regimens was identified. Further investigation into the optimal regimen and sequencing of perioperative chemotherapy is justified.

A 30-day prospective audit of all inpatient complications following acute care surgery: How well do we really perform?

Background: Acute care surgery (ACS) and emergency general surgery (EGS) services must provide timely care and intervention for patients who have some of the most challenging needs. Patients treated by ACS services are often critically ill and have both substantial comorbidities and poor physiologic reserve. Despite the widespread implemention of ACS/EGS services across North America, the true postoperative morbidity rates remain largely unknown. Methods: In this prospective study, inpatients at 8 high-volume ACS/EGS centres in geographically diverse locations in Canada who underwent operative interventions were followed for 30 days or until they were discharged. Readmissions during the 30-day window were also captured. Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were tracked. Standard statistical methodology was employed. Results: A total of 601 ACS/EGS patients were followed for up to 30 inpatient or readmission days after their index emergent operation. Fifty-one percent of patients were female, and the median age was 51 years. They frequently had substantial medical comorbidities (42%) and morbid obesity (15%). The majority of procedures were minimally invasive (66% laparoscopic). Median length of stay was 3.3 days and the early readmission (< 30 d) rate was 6%. Six percent of patients were admitted to the critical care unit. The overall complication and mortality rates were 34% and 2%, respectively. Cholecystitis (31%), appendicitis (21%), bowel obstruction (18%), incarcerated hernia (12%), gastrointestinal hemorrhage (7%) and soft tissue infections (7%) were the most common diagnoses. The morbidity and mortality rates for open surgical procedures were 73% and 5%, respectively. Conclusion: Nontrauma ACS/EGS procedures are associated with a high postoperative morbidity rate. This study will serve as a prospective benchmark for postoperative complications among ACS/EGS patients and subsequent quality improvement across Canada.

Contexte: Les services de chirurgie dans les unités de soins actifs (CSA) et de chirurgie générale dans les services d'urgence (CGSU) doivent fournir rapidement des soins et des interventions à des patients dont les besoins sont parmi les plus complexes. En effet, les patients pris en charge par les services de CSA sont souvent gravement malades et présentent des comorbidités sur fond de faible réserve physiologique. Même si les services de CSA/CGSU se sont répandus en Amérique du Nord, les taux réels de morbidité postopératoire demeurent pour une bonne part inconnus. Méthodes: Dans cette étude prospective, on a suivi pendant 30 jours ou jusqu'à leur congé, les patients hospitalisés pour des interventions chirurgicales dans 8 centres de CSA/CGSU achalandés de divers endroits au Canada. On a également tenu compte des réadmissions dans les 30 jours. Les paramètres pré-, per- et postopératoires ont été enregistrés. Une méthodologie statistique standard a été appliquée. Résultats: En tout, 601 patients de CSA/CGSU ont ainsi été suivis pendant une durée allant jusqu'à 30 jours d'hospitalisation ou de réadmission après leur intervention urgente initiale. Cinquante et un pour cent étaient de sexe féminin et l'âge moyen était de 51 ans. Ces patients étaient nombreux à présenter des comorbidités de nature médicale substantielles (42 %) et une obésité morbide (15 %). La majorité des interventions ont été minimalement effractives (66 % laparoscopiques). La durée médiane des séjours a été de 3,3 jours et le taux de réadmission précoce (< 30 j) a été de 6 %. Six pour cent des patients ont été admis aux soins intensifs. Les taux globaux de complications et de mortalité ont été respectivement de 34 % et de 2 %. Cholécystite (31 %), appendicite (21 %), obstruction intestinale (18 %), hernie incarcérée (12 %), hémorragie digestive (7 %) et infections des tissus mous (7 %) comptent parmi les diagnostics les plus fréquents. Les taux de morbidité et de mortalité dans les cas de chirurgies ouvertes ont été respectivement de 73 % et 5 %. Conclusion: Les interventions de CSA/CGSU non liées à la traumatologie sont associées à un taux de morbidité postopératoire élevé. Cette étude fournira un ensemble de valeurs de références pour l'étude prospective des complications chez les patients pris en charge par les services de CSA/CGSU et l'amélioration subséquente des soins partout au Canada.

Expedited discharge in uncomplicated acute appendicitis: Decreasing the length of stay while maintaining quality.

BACKGROUND: An expedited discharge protocol for uncomplicated appendicitis was developed at a Canadian academic hospital to determine if patients could be safely discharged home early without negatively impacting care and patient satisfaction. METHODS: A non-randomized prospective quality improvement project was completed between February 01, 2017 and January 31, 2018. The project included patients between 16 and 65 years with uncomplicated appendicitis managed with laparoscopic appendectomy. The primary outcome was average length of stay post PACU. 30 day ED visit, cross-sectional imaging and readmission rate were balancing measures. The CTM-3 tool was used to measure patient satisfaction. RESULTS: 450 patients had emergent laparoscopic appendectomy. 287 (63.8%) patients met the project inclusion criteria. The average length of stay decreased 41.0% to 13.1 h. The 30 day ED visit, cross-sectional imaging and readmission rate were 9.8%, 4.5% and 1.0% respectively compared with 8.1%, 4.5% and 2.5% at baseline. Patient satisfaction was 3.72/4 compared to 3.74/4. CONCLUSION: An expedited discharge after an uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy is safe and feasible without a negative impact on 30-day ED visit, diagnostic imaging or readmission.

Can we improve the efficiency of care in patients with colorectal cancer from the time of their initial referral for colonoscopy to surgical resection?

Summary: Delays in the diagnosis and treatment of colon adenocarcinoma are distressing to patients and clinicians alike. Of 224 patients with resected colon cancer identified via a province-wide administrative database, 170 (76%) received their colonoscopy from a gastroenterologist (GI). Patients waited significantly longer between their colonoscopy and surgical resection when the colonoscopy was performed by a GI within an urban city (43 v. 27 d; p = 0.02). The total time from family practice referral to colonoscopy to surgical resection was shorter when a surgeon performed colonoscopy within an urban setting (105 v. 114 d; p = 0.03). In community settings, there were no significant differences in any interval, regardless of which service performed the colonoscopy.

Synchronous colorectal liver metastases: a national survey of surgeon opinions on simultaneous resection and multidisciplinary cooperation.

BACKGROUND: The management of patients with synchronous colorectal liver metastases (sCRLM) has evolved significantly (improved chemotherapy, hepatic surgery advancements, colonic stenting, consultation synergies). We sought to better understand surgeon viewpoints on optimal referral patterns and the delivery of simultaneous resections. METHODS: A 40 question on-line survey was offered to members of the Canadian surgical community. Statistical analysis was descriptive. RESULTS: A total of 52 surgeons responded. Most colorectal surgeons (CRS) had access to and a good working relationship with regional hepatobiliary (HPB) surgeons (86%) and medical oncologists (100%). The majority (92%) believed there was a role for simultaneous resection of sCRLM, with 69% having first hand experience. Many CRS (62%) discussed all cases of known hepatic metastases with HPB prior to any resection. When a lesion was asymptomatic/minimally symptomatic, most CRS (92%) discussed them with medical oncology/HPB prior to resection (8%). Bilobar metastases (58%), patient comorbidities (35%), portal lymphadenopathy (35%), and patient age (15%) restricted CRS from obtaining HPB consultations. Many CRS (46%) did not believe that resecting hepatic metastases prior to the primary lesion might be beneficial. Most CRS (60%) reported they could not accurately predict hepatic resectability, with only 27% familiarity with evidence-based guidelines. Despite working in smaller hospitals with less access to HPB and less experience with simultaneous resections, non-CR general surgeons more commonly supported a 'liver-first' approach. CONCLUSIONS: There was general agreement between CRS and general surgeons on numerous topics, but additional education is required with regard to HPB surgical capabilities and to provide truly individualized patient-centered care.

Assessing resectability of colorectal liver metastases: How do different subspecialties interpret the same data?

BACKGROUND: Multimodal treatment of colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs) relies on precise upfront assessment of resectability. Variability in the definition of resectable disease and the importance of early consultation by a liver surgeon have been reported. In this pilot study we investigated the initial resectability assessment and patterns of referral of patients with CRLMs. METHODS: Surgeons and medical oncologists involved in the management of colorectal cancer at 2 academic institutions and affiliated community hospitals were surveyed. Opinions were sought regarding resectability of CRLMs and the type of initial specialty referral (hepatobiliary surgery, medical oncology, palliative care or other) in 6 clinical cases derived from actual cases of successfully performed 1- or 2-stage resection/ablation of hepatic disease. Case scenarios were selected to illustrate critical aspects of assessment of resectability, best therapeutic approaches and specialty referral. Standard statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: Of the 75 surgeons contacted, 64 responded (response rate 85%; 372 resectability assessments completed). Hepatic metastases were more often considered resectable by hepatobiliary surgeons than all other respondents (92% v. 57%, p < 0.001). Upfront systemic therapy was most commonly prioritized by surgical oncologists (p = 0.01). Hepatobiliary referral was still considered in 73% of "unresectable" assessments by colorectal surgeons, 59% of those by general surgeons, 57% of those by medical oncologists and 33% of those by surgical oncologists (p = 0.1). CONCLUSION: Assessment of resectability varied significantly between specialties, and resectability was often underestimated by nonhepatobiliary surgeons. Hepatobiliary referral was not considered in a substantial proportion of cases erroneously deemed unresectable. These disparities result largely from an imprecise understanding of modern surgical indications for resection of CRLMs.

CONTEXTE: Le traitement multimodal des métastases hépatiques du cancer colorectal (MHCR) repose sur une rigoureuse évaluation initiale de la résécabilité. On a fait état de l'imprécision de la définition de résécabilité et de l'importance de demander rapidement une consultation en chirurgie du foie. Au cours de cette étude, nous avons fait le point sur l'évaluation initiale de la résécabilité et sur les types de consultations demandées pour les patients présentant des MHCR. MÉTHODES: Nous avons interrogé les chirurgiens et oncologues médicaux responsables de la prise en charge du cancer colorectal dans 2 établissements universitaires et leurs hôpitaux communautaires affiliés. Nous leur avons demandé leur opinion sur la résécabilité des MHCR et le type de consultation demandée initialement (chirurgie hépatobiliaire, oncologie médicale, soins palliatifs ou autres) concernant 6 cas cliniques inspirés de cas réels de résection ou ablation réussie pour maladie hépatique de stade 1 ou 2. Ces scénarios de cas cliniques ont été choisis pour illustrer certains aspects cruciaux de l'évaluation de la résécabilité, des approches thérapeutiques optimales et des demandes de consultation. Des analyses statistiques standards ont été effectuées. RÉSULTATS: Parmi les 75 chirurgiens rejoints, 64 ont répondu (taux de réponse 85 %; 372 évaluations de résécabilité ont été effectuées). Les métastases hépatiques ont été plus souvent jugées résécables par les chirurgiens hépatobiliaires que par tous les autres répondants (92 % c. 57 %, p < 0,001). Un traitement systémique initial a le plus souvent été privilégié par les chirurgiens-oncologues (p = 0,01). Une consultation auprès de spécialistes hépatobiliaires était encore considérée comme nécessaire pour les cas jugés «â€¯non résécables ¼ dans une proportion de 73 % par les chirurgiens spécialistes du cancer colorectal, de 59 % par les chirurgiens généraux, de 57 % par les oncologues médicaux et de 33 % par les chirurgiens-oncologues (p = 0,1). CONCLUSION: L'évaluation de la résécabilité a significativement varié d'une spécialité à l'autre et la résécabilité a souvent été sous-estimée par les chirurgiens non spécialistes de voies hépatobiliaires. La consultation auprès des spécialistes hépatobiliaires n'a pas été envisagée pour une proportion substantielle de cas jugés à tort non résécables. Ces disparités se soldent en bonne partie d'une mécompréhension des indications actuelles de la chirurgie pour MHCR.

Examples of dramatic failures and their effectiveness in modern surgical disciplines: can we learn from our mistakes?

Innovation can be variably defined, but when applied to healthcare is often considered to be the introduction of something new, whether an idea, method or device, into an unfilled void or needy environment. Despite the introduction of many positive surgical subspecialty altering concepts/devices however, epic failures are not uncommon. These failures can be dramatic in regards to both their human and economic costs. They can also be very public or more quiet in nature. As surgical leaders in our communities and advocates for patient safety and outcomes, it remains crucial that we meet new introductions in technology and patient care with a measured level of curiosity, skepticism and science-based conclusions. The aim of an expert committee was to identify the most dominant failures in technological innovation and/or dogmatic clinical beliefs within each major surgical subspecialty. In summary, this effort was pursued to highlight the past failures and remind surgeons to remain vigilant and appropriately skeptical with regard to the introduction of new innovations and clinical beliefs within our craft.

Postoperative Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug Use and Intestinal Anastomotic Dehiscence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used analgesics in colorectal surgery. Controversy exists regarding the potential association between these drugs and anastomotic dehiscence. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine whether postoperative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use is associated with intestinal anastomotic dehiscence. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and references of included articles were searched without date or language restriction. STUDY SELECTION: Randomized controlled trials and observational studies that compared postoperative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use with nonuse and reported on intestinal anastomotic dehiscence were selected. INTERVENTION: The use of postoperative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs relative to placebo or nonuse was investigated. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Risk ratios and adjusted or unadjusted odds ratios for anastomotic dehiscence were pooled across randomized controlled trials and observational studies using DerSimonian and Laird random-effects models. RESULTS: Among 4395 citations identified, 6 randomized controlled trials (n = 473 patients) and 11 observational studies (n > 20,184 patients) were included. Pooled analyses revealed that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use was nonsignificantly associated with anastomotic dehiscence in randomized controlled trials (risk ratio, 1.96; 95% CI, 0.74-5.16; I = 0%) and significantly associated with anastomotic dehiscence in observational studies (OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.14-1.86; I = 54%). In stratified analyses of observational study data, the pooled OR for anastomotic dehiscence was statistically significant for studies of nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use (6 studies; > 4900 patients; OR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.65-2.64; I = 0%), but was not statistically significant for studies of cyclooxygenase-2 selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use (3 studies; >697 patients; OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 0.78-2.31; I = 0%). LIMITATIONS: Studies varied by patient selection criteria, drug exposures, and definitions of anastomotic dehiscence. Analyses of randomized controlled trials and cyclooxygenase-2 selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were potentially underpowered. CONCLUSIONS: Pooled observational data suggest an association between postoperative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use and intestinal anastomotic dehiscence. Caution may be warranted in using these medications in patients at risk for this complication.

A comparison of outcomes between laparoscopic and open appendectomy in Canada.

SUMMARY: The benefit of a laparoscopic approach to appendectomy continues to be debated. We compared laparoscopic (LA) with open appendectomy (OA) for appendicitis in Canada using the Canadian Institute for Health Information database (2004-2008). The odds of female patients undergoing LA were 1.26 times higher than the odds of male patients, and the odds of patients with nonperforated pathology undergoing LA were 1.38 times higher than the odds of those with perforated pathology. Increasing comorbidities were associated with OA. While LA is becoming more frequent, the associated length of stay, postoperative complication rate and mortality are clearly lower than for OA. As a result, we support the continued increase in use of LA with regard to both safety and outcomes.

Bowel obstructions and incisional hernias following trauma laparotomy and the nonoperative therapy of solid organ injuries: A retrospective population-based analysis.

BACKGROUND: Small bowel obstruction (SBO) and incisional hernia (IH) represent the most common long-term complications of laparotomy. They may also be more common among injured patients than for elective/nontrauma emergency scenarios. Unfortunately, the population-based incidence of SBO and IH following trauma laparotomy is unknown. The aim of this study was to define the long-term, population-based incidence of SBO and IH following both trauma laparotomy as well as the nonoperative therapy of solid organ injuries. METHODS: All injured patients admitted to a Level 1 trauma center (2002-2013) who underwent (1) a laparotomy or nonoperative care of (2) splenic and/or (3) hepatic injuries were linked with the Alberta Health Services Discharge Database to identify all readmissions for subsequent SBO and/or IH within the province. Standard statistical methodology was used (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Of 484 patients who underwent a trauma laparotomy, 29 (6%) and 42 (9%) required readmission for SBO and IH, respectively (0.13 SBO and 0.10 IH admissions per patient year). Patients who underwent nonoperative management of their liver and/or spleen injuries displayed long-term SBO rates of 1% (6 of 619) and 0.7% (4 of 606), respectively. The rate of SBO and IH in patients with unnecessary laparotomies was equivalent to therapeutic procedures (p = 0.183). Topical hemostatic agents, repeat laparotomies, and injury pattern did not alter SBO or IH rates (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The population-based, long-term rate of clinically relevant SBO and IH following trauma laparotomies is 15%. This increases to 19% on a per-admission basis. Nontherapeutic scenarios, injury pattern, topical hemostatics, and open abdomens did not alter complication rates. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic study, level IV.

The impact of an acute care surgery clinical care pathway for suspected appendicitis on the use of CT in the emergency department.

BACKGROUND: The natural evolution of an acute care surgery (ACS) service is to develop disease-specific care pathways aimed at quality improvement. Our primary goal was to evaluate the implementation of an ACS pathway dedicated to suspected appendicitis on patient flow and the use of computed tomography (CT) in the emergency department (ED). METHODS: All adults within a large health care system (3 hospitals) with suspected appendicitis were analyzed during our study period, which included 3 time periods: pre- and postimplementation of the disease-specific pathway and at 12-month follow-up. RESULTS: Of the 1168 consultations for appendicitis that took place during our study period, 349 occurred preimplementation, 392 occurred postimplementation, and 427 were follow-up visits. In all, 877 (75%) patients were admitted to the ACS service. Overall, 83% of patients underwent surgery within 6 hours. The mean wait time from CT request to obtaining the CT scan decreased with pathway implementation at all sites (197 v. 143 min, p < 0.001). This improvement was sustained at 12-month followup (131 min, p < 0.001). The pathway increased the number of CTs completed in under 2 hours from 3% to 42% (p < 0.001). No decrease in the total number of CTs or the pattern of ultrasonography was noted (p = 0.42). Wait times from ED triage to surgery were shortened (665 min preimplementation, 633 min postimplementation, 631 min at the 12-month follow-up, p = 0.040). CONCLUSION: A clinical care pathway dedicated to suspected appendicitis can decrease times to both CT scan and surgical intervention.

CONTEXTE: LL'évolution naturelle d'un service de chirurgie d'urgence (SCU) consiste à mettre au point des plans d'intervention spécifiques aux maladies dans le but d'améliorer la qualité des soins. Notre objectif principal était d'évaluer l'impact de l'instauration au SCU d'un plan d'intervention spécifique à l'appendicite présumée sur le roulement des patients et sur l'utilisation de la tomodensitométrie (TDM) à l'urgence. MÉTHODES: Les dossiers de tous les patients adultes d'un important réseau de santé (3 hôpitaux) s'étant présentés pour une appendicite présumée ont été analysés durant la période de notre étude qui incluait 3 étapes : avant et après la mise en oeuvre du plan d'intervention spécifique, puis suivi à 12 mois. RÉSULTATS: Sur les 1168 consultations pour appendicite qui ont eu lieu durant notre étude, 349 se sont déroulées avant la mise en oeuvre du service, 392, après sa mise en oeuvre, et 427 étaient des visites de suivi. En tout, 877 patients (75 %) ont été admis au SCU. Globalement, 83 % des patients ont subi une chirurgie dans les 6 heures. Le temps d'attente moyen entre la demande de TDM et sa réalisation a diminué après l'application du plan d'intervention pour tous les sites (197 c. 143 min, p < 0,001). Cette amélioration se maintenait toujours au suivi de 12 mois (131 min, p < 0,001). Le plan d'intervention a permis de faire passer le nombre de TDM réalisées en moins de 2 heures de 3 % à 42 % (p < 0,001). On n'a noté aucune diminution du nombre total de TDM ou des tendances de l'échographie (p = 0,42). Les temps d'attente entre le triage et l'appendicectomie ont diminué (665 min avant et 633 min après l'application du plan d'intervention, 631 min au suivi de 12 mois, p = 0.040). CONCLUSION: Un plan d'intervention spécifique à l'appendicite peut réduire les temps d'attente pour la TDM et l'intervention chirurgicale.

Colonoscopy following nonoperative management of uncomplicated diverticulitis may not be warranted.

BACKGROUND: Following the nonoperative management of acute diverticulitis, guidelines recommend routine follow-up colonoscopy; however, evidence to support this recommendation are lacking. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to determine the diagnostic yield of endoscopy for clinically significant neoplasia following the successful nonoperative management of acute diverticulitis. DESIGN: This study is a retrospective review. SETTING: This study was conducted in a large urban health region. PATIENTS: Adult patients who were admitted with a diagnosis of acute diverticulitis confirmed by CT and who were successfully managed nonoperatively to hospital discharge were included. Patients who underwent colonoscopy within 2 years of presentation were excluded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: The primary outcome measured was the incidence of clinically significant neoplasia (invasive malignancy or advanced adenoma) on follow-up endoscopy within 1 year of admission. RESULTS: Four hundred fifty-eight patients were selected for analysis, of which 249 patients (54%) underwent endoscopy within 1 year of admission. Seventy-seven (30.9%) patients were found to have polyps, 19 (7.6%) patients had advanced adenomas, and 4 (1.6%) patients had an invasive malignancy; 23 patients (9.2%) were found to have clinically significant neoplasia. On subgroup analysis, patients presenting with complicated diverticulitis (n = 74) had a significantly higher incidence of advanced adenoma (18.9% vs 5%, p = 0.001) and invasive malignancy (5.4% vs 0%, p = 0.007) in comparison with patients who presented with uncomplicated diverticulitis (n = 175). On multivariate analysis, patient age (OR 1.04 (1.01-1.08), p = 0.02) and the presence of abscess (OR 4.15 (1.68-10.3), p = 0.002) were identified as significant risk factors for clinically significant neoplasia. LIMITATIONS: The use of retrospective data was a limitation of this study; 54% of selected patients underwent endoscopic follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of clinically significant neoplasia on endoscopic follow-up after the nonoperative management of acute diverticulitis is 9.2%. Those with complicated diverticulitis are at higher risk, whereas the incidence of clinically significant neoplasia in those with uncomplicated diverticulitis is equal to the incidence in average-risk individuals. Routine diagnostic colonoscopy following the nonoperative management of acute uncomplicated diverticulitis may not be warranted.

Role of Evidence-Based Reviews in Surgery in teaching critical appraisal skills and in journal clubs.

BACKGROUND: Evidence-Based Reviews in Surgery (EBRS) is a program developed to teach critical appraisal skills to general surgeons and residents. The purpose of this study was to assess the use of EBRS by general surgery residents across Canada and to assess residents' opinions regarding EBRS and journal clubs. METHODS: We surveyed postgraduate year 2-5 residents from 15 general surgery programs. Data are presented as percentages and means. RESULTS: A total of 231 residents (58%, mean 56% per program, range 0%-100%) responded: 172 (75%) residents indicated that they know about EBRS and that it is used in their programs. More than 75% of residents who use EBRS agreed or strongly agreed that the EBRS clinical and methodological articles and reviews are relevant. Only 55 residents (24%) indicated that they used EBRS online. Most residents (198 [86%]) attend journal clubs. The most common format is a mandatory meeting held at a special time every month with faculty members with epidemiological and clinical expertise. Residents stated that EBRS articles were used exclusively (13%) or in conjunction with other articles (57%) in their journal clubs. Most respondents (176 of 193 [91%]) stated that journal clubs are very or somewhat valuable to their education. CONCLUSION: The EBRS program is widely used among general surgery residents across Canada. Although most residents who use EBRS rate it highly, a large proportion are unaware of EBRS online features. Thus, future efforts to increase awareness of EBRS online features and increase its accessibility are required.

CONTEXTE: Le programme de revues factuelles en chirurgie EBRS (Evidence-Based Reviews in Surgery) a été mis au point pour enseigner aux chirurgiens et aux résidents en chirurgie générale les compétences nécessaires pour faire des évaluations critiques. Le but de cette étude était d'analyser l'utilisation des EBRS par les résidents en chirurgie générale au Canada et de leur demander leur opinion au sujet des EBRS et des clubs de lecture. MÉTHODES: Nous avons interrogé des résidents des années 2 à 5 rattachés à 15 programmes de chirurgie générale. Les données sont présentées sous forme de pourcentages et de moyennes. RÉSULTANTS: En tout, 231 résidents (58 %, moyenne de 56 % par programme, intervalle 0 %­100 %) ont répondu : 172 résidents (75 %) ont indiqué qu'ils connaissent les EBRS et que leur programme les utilise. Plus de 75 % des résidents qui utilisent les EBRS se sont dit d'accord ou tout à fait d'accord avec l'énoncé sur la pertinence des articles et revues cliniques et méthodologiques des EBRS. Seulement 55 résidents (24 %) ont dit utiliser les EBRS en ligne. La plupart des résidents (198 [86 %]) participaient à des clubs de lecture. Leur utilisation la plus courante prend la forme d'une réunion obligatoire tenue à un moment particulier tous les mois avec les enseignants de la faculté ayant une expertise épidémiologique et clinique. Les résidents ont indiqué que les EBRS étaient utilisés seuls (13 %) ou avec d'autres articles (57 %) dans leurs clubs de lecture. La plupart des répondants (176 sur 193 [91 %]) ont affirmé que leurs clubs de lecture sont très ou assez utiles pour leur formation. CONCLUSIONS: Le programme EBRS est largement utilisé par les résidents en chirurgie générale au Canada. Même si la plupart des résidents qui utilisent les EBRS leur accordent une cote élevée, une forte proportion ignore l'existence des possibilités web des EBRS. Il faudra donc travailler à mieux faire connaître les possibilités offertes par le programme EBRS sur le web et en faciliter l'accès.

Acute care surgery: the impact of an acute care surgery service on assessment, flow, and disposition in the emergency department.

BACKGROUND: Acute care surgery (ACS) services are becoming increasingly popular. METHODS: Assessment, flow, and disposition of adult ACS patients (acute, nontrauma surgical conditions) through the emergency department (ED) in a large health care system (Calgary) were prospectively analyzed. RESULTS: Among 447 ACS ED consultations over 3 centers (70% admitted to ACS), the median wait time from the consultation request to ACS arrival was 36 minutes, and from ACS arrival to the admission request it was 91 minutes. The total ACS-dependent time was 127 minutes compared with 261 minutes for initial ED activities and 104 minutes for transfer to a hospital ward (P < .05). Forty percent of patients underwent computed tomography (CT) imaging (76% before consultation). The time to ACS consultation was 305 minutes when a CT scan was performed first. CONCLUSIONS: An ACS service results in rapid ED assessment of surgical emergencies. Patient waiting is dominated by the time before requesting ACS consultation and/or waiting for transfer to the ward.

Primary colorectal lymphoma-clinical outcomes in a population-based series.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics and the outcomes of primary colorectal lymphomas using a population-based registry. METHODS: All cases of colorectal lymphoma diagnosed between 1980 and 2007 were identified using a provincial cancer registry. Patients meeting Dawson's criteria and having a negative bone marrow biopsy were included. RESULTS: One hundred ten cases of colorectal lymphoma were identified, 43 met the inclusion criteria. The majority of patients was male (86%), and the median age at diagnosis was 62 (range 26-82) years. Tumors were mostly located in the cecum (51.1%) and rectum (20.9%). The 5-year overall survival rate calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method was 57%. Age under 60 was associated with a better median survival time (265 vs 54 months; p < 0.0001). The surgical treatment was associated with a better overall survival compared to medical treatment alone (110 vs 56 months; p = 0.083). Tumors located in the rectum were associated with a decreased overall survival (41 months vs 110 months; p = 0.065). CONCLUSIONS: Primary colorectal lymphoma is a rare disease. The age at diagnosis is an important predictor of outcome. Surgical resection may be associated with improved survival. Rectal lymphoma appears to be associated with a worse outcome and may warrant more aggressive therapy.