Traumatismo anorrectal contuso. Reporte de un caso y revisión bibliográfica / Blunt anorectal trauma. Case reportand literature review

Introducción: El traumatismo anorrectal es una causa poco frecuente de consulta al servicio de emergencias, con una incidencia del 1 al 3%. A menudo está asociado a lesiones potencialmente mortales, por esta razón, es fundamental conocer los principios de diagnóstico y tratamiento, así como los protocolos de atención inicial de los pacientes politraumatizados. Método: Reportamos el caso de un paciente masculino de 47 años con trauma anorrectal contuso con compromiso del esfínter anal interno y externo, tratado con reparación primaria del complejo esfinteriano con técnica de overlapping, rafia de la mucosa, submucosa y muscular del recto. A los 12 meses presenta buena evolución sin incontinencia anal. Conclusión: El tratamiento del trauma rectal, basado en el dogma de las 4 D (desbridamiento, derivación fecal, drenaje presacro, lavado distal) fue exitoso. La técnica de overlapping para la lesión esfinteriana fue simple y efectiva para la reconstrucción anatómica y funcional. (AU)

Introduction: Anorectal trauma is a rare cause of consultation to the Emergency Department, with an incidence of 1 to 3%. It is often associated with life-threatening injuries, so it is essential to know the principles of diagnosis and treatment, as well as the initial care protocols for the polytrau-matized patient. Methods: We present the case of a 47-year-old man with a blunt anorectal trauma involving the internal and external anal sphincter, treated with primary overlapping repair of the sphincter complex and suturing of the rectal wall. At 12 months the patient presents good outcome, without anal incontinence. Conclusion: The treatment of rectal trauma, based on the 4 D ́s dogma (debridement, fecal diversion, presacral drainage, distal rectal washout lavage) was successful. Repair of the overlapping sphincter injury was simple and effective for anatomical and functional reconstruction. (AU)

Postoperative analgesic efficacy of nefopam after anorectal surgery: a retrospective observational study

Objective: To examine the effectiveness of nefopam on postoperative pain control after anorectal surgeries. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of patients who underwent anorectal surgeries from January 2019 to March 2022 at two medical centers. The data were divided into nefopam and conventional groups. The primary outcome was the number of patients who requested additional opioids in the 24-h postoperative period. The secondary outcomes were numeric rating pain scores (NRPS) within a 24-h postoperative period and analgesic drugs-related side effects. Results: Eighty-seven patients in the conventional group and 60 in the nefopam group were recruited. The nefopam group reported less additional opioid consumption than the conventional group in all dimensions of analysis, including overall, adjusted to anesthetic techniques and types of surgery. However, these did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.093). Only patients in the nefopam group who underwent hemorrhoidectomy under TIVA or spinal anesthesia significantly required fewer additional opioids (P = 0.016, 60% mean difference). Similarly, the 24-h postoperative morphine consumption was lower in the nefopam group (mean difference = -3.4, 95%CI: 0.72,6.08). Furthermore, significantly lower NRPS were reported in the nefopam group during the 12-18 h postoperative period (P = 0.009). On the other hand, analgesic drugs related side effects were similar in both groups. Conclusions: The administration of nefopam after major anorectal surgery is beneficially evident in reducing postoperative opioid requirements. (AU)

Predictors of long-term healing for endorectal advancement flap for anorectal fistulas

Introduction: Anorectal fistulas are some of the commonest surgical proctologic disorders treated by surgeons. Despite the recent introduction of various sphincter preserving techniques, the search for the optimal operation continues. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors of long-term healing for the endorectal advancement flap. Methods: A retrospective review of a single surgeon experience with the endorectal advancement flap for anorectal fistulas over an 18-year period. The impact of various patient and fistula related factors were analyzed for their impact on the primary endpoint of long-term fistula healing. Results: 87 patients underwent endorectal advancement flap (Male/Female 42.5/57.5%). Median age was 41 years. Sixty-nine patients (79.3%) had anal fistula while 18 patients had rectal fistula (20.7%). An anterior based fistula was noted in 45 patients (51.7%). The most common etiology was cryptoglandular disease (87.4%). The median operative time was 75minutes (range 36-250). Postoperative septic complications were noted in 4 patients (4.6%). Fistula healing was documented in 80 patients (93%). During a median follow-up of 4 months (range 1-38, 1 patient lost to follow-up), recurrence was noted in 8 patients (9.3%), yielding an overall long-term success rate of 83.7%. The long-term healing rate was higher in patients with fistulas from cryptoglandular etiology (86.6%) compared to fistulas from other etiologies (63.6%) [p = 0.027]. Conclusions: The endorectal advancement is associated with a high healing rate, a low postoperative septic complication rate, and infrequent risk for recurrence. Long-term healing without recurrence is achieved more frequently in patients with cryptoglandular etiology of the fistula compared to patients with non-cryptoglandular etiology. (AU)

Temporary stomas after rectal cancer resection; predilection of being permanent and predictors of complications?

Stomas are essential for colorectal surgery and are widely used not only for selected cases for bowel obstructions but also in rectal cancer operations to divert stool away from low rectal anastomosis. On the other hand, complications with stomas/ stomas reversal are not uncommon. In this study, we aimed at studying the frequency and the predictors of temporary stomas being permanent, and the contributing factors of surgical stoma/stoma closure related complications. In our cohort, only about 40% of the patient closed their initially planned temporary stomas. The occurrence of intestinal leak, wound sepsis, or any type of morbidity with 30 days of operation were significant predictors of permanent stomas. In addition, alarmingly although Hartmann's procedure was uncommon in our practice, only 9% of those who underwent Hartmann's have had it reversed. Moreover, the only factor that significantly increased stoma related complications was having an end colostomy. There was a tendency toward late closure of stomas with median 8.2 months, however early closure did not correlate to complications. In conclusion, further studies are needed to delineate the low rate of stoma closure. Patients who develop postoperative complications, even wound sepsis, would be at a higher risk of living with permanent stomas. Hartmann's procedures are commonly associated with stoma problems, and reluctance to reverse the stomas. (AU)

Diferencias en la duración del reflejo rectoanal inhibitorio en pacientes con constipación funcional refractaria y mielomeningocele / Differences in rectoanal inhibitory reflex duration between patients with refractory functional constipation and myelomeningocele

Introducción. Habitualmente, durante la manometría anorrectal, en lo correspondiente al reflejo rectoanal inhibitorio (RRAI) solo se pesquisa su presencia o ausencia. Estudios han reportado que su análisis detallado puede brindar datos de interés. Nuestra hipótesis es que la medición del RRAI puede dar información para reconocer causas orgánicas (médula anclada, lipoma, etc.) en pacientes en los que previamente se consideró como de causa funcional. Objetivos. Comparar la duración del reflejo rectoanal inhibitorio en la manometría anorrectal de pacientes con constipación funcional refractaria (CFR) y mielomeningocele (MMC). Población y métodos. Estudio observacional, transversal, analítico (2004-2019). Pacientes constipados crónicos con incontinencia fecal funcional y orgánica (mielomeningocele). Se les realizó manometría anorrectal con sistema de perfusión de agua y se midió la duración del RRAI con diferentes volúmenes (20, 40 y 60 cc). Grupo 1 (G1): 81 CFR. Grupo 2 (G2): 54 MMC. Se excluyeron pacientes con retraso madurativo, esfínter anal complaciente, agenesia sacra y aquellos no colaboradores. Resultados. Se incluyeron 135 sujetos (62 varones). La mediana de edad fue G1:9,57 años; G2: 9,63 años. Duración promedio G1 vs. G2 con 20 cc: 8,89 vs. 15,21 segundos; con 40 cc: 11.41 vs. 21,12 segundos; con 60 cc: 14,15 vs. 26,02 segundos. La diferencia de duración del RRAI entre ambos grupos con diferentes volúmenes fue estadísticamente significativa (p = 0,0001). Conclusión. La duración del RRAI aumenta a mayor volumen de insuflación del balón en ambas poblaciones. Pacientes con MMC tuvieron mayor duración del RRAI que aquellos con CFR. En los pacientes con RRAI prolongado, debe descartarse lesión medular.

Introduction. Usually, during anorectal manometry, only the presence or absence of rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR) is investigated. Studies have reported that a detailed analysis may provide data of interest. Our hypothesis is that RAIR measurement may provide information to detect organic causes (tethered cord, lipoma, etc.) in patients in whom a functional cause had been previously considered. Objectives. To compare RAIR duration in anorectal manometry between patients with refractory functional constipation (RFC) and myelomeningocele (MMC). Population and methods. Observational, analytical, cross-sectional study (2004­2019). Patients with chronic constipation and functional and organic fecal incontinence (myelomeningocele). The anorectal manometry was performed with a water-perfused system, and the duration of RAIR was measured with different volumes (20, 40, and 60 cc). Group 1 (G1): 81 RFC. Group 2 (G2): 54 MMC. Patients with developmental delay, compliant anal sphincter, sacral agenesis and non-cooperative patients were excluded. Results. A total of 135 individuals were included (62 were male). Their median age was 9.57 years in G1 and 9.63 years in G2. Average duration in G1 versus G2 with 20 cc: 8.89 versus 15.21 seconds; 40 cc: 11.41 versus 21.12 seconds; 60 cc: 14.15 versus 26.02 seconds. The difference in RAIR duration with the varying volumes was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). Conclusion. RAIR duration was longer with increasing balloon inflation volumes in both populations. RAIR duration was longer in patients with MMC than in those with RFC. Spinal injury should be ruled out in patients with prolonged RAIR.

Uso de stent en estenosis colorrectal benigna / Stent utilization in benign colorectal stenosis

Introducción. La estenosis colorrectal benigna hace referencia a una condición anatómica caracterizada por una disminución del diámetro de la luz intestinal distal a la válvula ileocecal, ocasionando una serie de signos y síntomas de tipo obstructivo. Es una entidad poco frecuente, secundaria en la gran mayoría de veces a la realización de anastomosis intestinales al nivel descrito. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar la utilidad del stentcolónico en estenosis secundaria a patología colorrectal no neoplásica. Métodos. Estudio descriptivo de una cohorte de pacientes que desarrolló estenosis colorrectal de origen benigna confirmada por colonoscopía, en 3 hospitales de alta complejidad de la ciudad de Medellín, Colombia, entre los años 2007 y 2021. Resultados. Se incluyeron 34 pacientes con diagnóstico de estenosis colorrectal de origen benigno, manejados con stents metálicos autoexpandibles. La mediana de seguimiento fue de 19 meses y se obtuvo éxito clínico en el 73,5 % de los casos. La tasa de complicación fue del 41,2 %, dada principalmente por reobstrucción y migración del stent, y en menor medida por perforación secundaria a la colocación del dispositivo. Conclusión. Los stents metálicos autoexpandibles representan una opción terapéutica en pacientes con obstrucción colorrectal, con altas tasas de mejoría clínica en pacientes con patología estenosante no maligna. Cuando la derivación por medio de estoma no es una opción, este tipo de dispositivos están asociados a altas tasas de éxito clínico y mejoría de la calidad de vida de los pacientes

Introduction. Benign colorectal stenosis refers to an anatomical condition characterized by a decrease in the diameter of the intestinal lumen distal to the ileocecal valve, which might cause a series of obstructive signs and symptoms. It is a rare entity, caused in the vast majority of cases due to intestinal anastomosis at the described level. The purpose of this study is to determine the performance of colonic stents in the management of non-malignant colorectal strictures. Methods. Descriptive study of a cohort of patients who developed a benign colorectal stenosis confirmed by colonoscopy in three high-complexity hospitals in the city of Medellín, Colombia, between 2007 and 2021. Results. Thirty-four patients diagnosed with benign colorectal stenosis managed with self-expanding metal stents were included in the study. Median follow-up was 19 months, obtaining clinical success in 73.5% of cases, with a complication rate of 41.2%, mainly due to reobstruction and migration of the stent, and to a lesser extent due to perforation secondary to device placement.Conclusion. Self-expanding metallic stents represent a therapeutic option in patients with colorectal obstruction caused by non-malignant stenosing pathology. When diversion through a stoma is not an option, this type of device is associated with high rates of clinical success and improvement in the patients' quality of life

Quantitative evaluation of radiotherapy plan in precise external beam radiotherapy process management for cervical cancer / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To identify the problems in clinical radiotherapy planning for cervical cancer through quantitative evaluation of the radiotherapy plans to improve the quality of the plans and the radiotherapy process.@*METHODS@#We selected the clinically approved and administered radiotherapy plans for 227 cervical cancer patients undergoing external radiotherapy at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center from May, 2019 to January, 2022. These plans were transferred from the treatment planning system to the Plan IQTM workstation. The plan quality metrics were determined based on the guidelines of ICRU83 report, the GEC-ESTRO Working Group, and the clinical requirements of our center and were approved by a senior clinician. The problems in the radiotherapy plans were summarized and documented, and those with low scores were re-planned and the differences were analyzed.@*RESULTS@#We identified several problems in the 277 plans by quantitative evaluation. Inappropriate target volume selection (with scores < 60) in terms of GTV, PGTV (CI) and PGTV (V66 Gy) was found in 10.6%, 65.2%, and 1% of the plans, respectively; and the PGTV (CI), GTV, and PCTV (D98%, HI) had a score of 0 in 0.4%, 10.1%, 0.4%, 0.4% of the plans, respectively. The problems in the organs at risk (OARs) involved mainly the intestines (the rectum, small intestine, and colon), found in 20.7% of the plans, and in occasional cases, the rectum, small intestine, colon, kidney, and the femoral head had a score of 0. Senior planners showed significantly better performance than junior planners in PGTV (V60 Gy, D98%), PCTV (CI), and CTV (D98%) (P≤0.046) especially in terms of spinal cord and small intestine protection (P≤0.034). The bowel (the rectum, small intestine and colon) dose was significantly lower in the prone plans than supine plans (P < 0.05), and targets coverage all met clinical requirements. Twenty radiotherapy plans with low scores were selected for re-planning. The re-planned plans had significantly higher GTV (Dmin) and PTV (V45 Gy, D98%) (P < 0.05) with significantly reduced doses of the small intestines (V40 Gy vs V30 Gy), the colon (V40 Gy vs V30 Gy), and the bladder (D35%) (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Quantitative evaluation of the radiotherapy plans can not only improve the quality of radiotherapy plan, but also facilitate risk management of the radiotherapy process.

Classification system of radical surgery for rectal cancer based on membrane anatomy / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Because the classification system of radical surgery for rectal cancer has not been established, it is impossible to select the appropriate surgical method according to the clinical stage of the tumor. In this paper, we explained the theory of " four fasciae and three spaces " of pelvic membrane anatomy and then combined this theory with the membrane anatomical basis of Querleu-Morrow classification for radical cervical cancer resection. Based on this theory and the membrane anatomy of Querleu-Morrow classification of radical cervical cancer resection, we proposed a new classification system of radical rectal cancer surgery based on membrane anatomy according to the lateral lymph node dissection range of the rectum. This system classifies the surgery into four types (ABCD) and defines corresponding subtypes based on whether the autonomic nerve was preserved. Among them, type A surgery is total mesorectal excision (TME) with urogenital fascia preservation, type B surgery is classical TME, type C surgery is extended TME, and type D surgery is lateral extended resection. This classification system unifies the anatomical terminology of the pelvic membrane, validates the feasibility of using the " four fasciae and three fascial spaces " theory to classify rectal cancer surgery, and lays the theoretical foundation for the future development of a unified and standardized classification of radical pelvic tumor surgery.

Application of triangle stability mechanical model in the layer separation of transanal total mesorectal excision / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Transanal total mesorectal resection (taTME) has come a long way since it was first used in the clinic in 2010.The learning curve of this procedure is long due to different surgical approaches, different perspectives and different anatomical positions. Many surgeons experience complications during this procedure. Although the advantages and problems of this procedure have been reported in much literature, the anatomy and operation methods of taTME introduced in literatures and training centers are too complicated, which makes many surgeons encounter difficulties in carrying out taTME surgery. According to the author's experience in learning and carrying out this operation, spatial expansion process of ultralow rectal cancer was divided into three stages. At each stage, according to different pulling forces, three different schemes of triangular stability mechanics model were adopted for separation. From point to line, from line to plane, the model can protect the safety of peripheral blood vessels and nerves while ensuring total mesorectal excision . This model simplifies the complex surgical process and is convenient for beginners to master taTME surgical separation skills.

Meta-analysis comparing long-term outcomes of intersphincteric resection versus abdominoperineal resection for low rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To compare the long-term outcomes of intersphincteric (trans-internal and external) sphincter resection (ISR) and abdominoperineal proctocolectomy (APR) for low-grade rectal cancer. Methods: We used a meta-analytic approach to compare these procedures . Published reports comparing ISR and APR for low rectal cancer in Pubmed, Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane, China Knowledge Network (CNKI), China Biomedical Literature Database, and Vipers databases between January 2005 and January 2023 were searched and those meeting the eligibility criteria were selected for extraction of data for analysis. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) all reports comparing ISR and APR for low rectal cancer before January 2023; and (2) prospective randomized controlled studies or well-designed cohort studies. Exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) full text not available; (2) duplicate publications, missing primary outcome indicators, and unknown data; and (3) invalid statistical analysis. Results: Sixteen studies with 2498 patients were included in this study. Compared with the APR group, patients in the ISR group were relatively younger (weighted mean difference [WMD]=-1.82, 95%CI=-2.94 to -0.70, P=0.01), had tumors farther from the anal verge (WMD=0.43, 95%CI=0.18 to 0.67, P<0.01), and lower pathological T-stage (T3-4 stage: OR=0.54, 95%CI=0.36 to 0.81, P<0.01). In contrast, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in gender (P=0.78), body mass index (P=0.77), or pathological N stage (P=0.09). Compared with the APR group, patients in the ISR group had a lower rate of postoperative complications (OR=0.77, 95%CI=0.60 to 0.99, P=0.04), shorter hospital stay (WMD=-4.30, 95%CI=-7.07 to -1.53, P<0.01), higher 5-year overall survival (HR=0.54, 95%CI=0.33 to 0.88, P=0.01), and higher 5-year disease-free survival (HR=0.65, 95%CI=0.47 to 0.90, P<0.01). Five-year locoregional failure (HR=0.66, 95%CI=0.40 to 1.10, P=0.11) and time to surgery (WMD=-9.71, 95%CI=-41.89 to 22.47, P=0.55) did not differ significantly between the two groups. Conclusion: ISR is a safe and effective alternative to APR for early-stage low-grade rectal cancer.

Anatomical and histological investigation of the area anterior to the anorectum passing through the levator hiatus / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To document the anatomical structure of the area anterior to the anorectum passing through the levator hiatus between the levator ani slings bilaterally. Methods: Three male hemipelvises were examined at the Laboratory of Clinical Applied Anatomy, Fujian Medical University. (1) The anatomical assessment was performed in three ways; namely, by abdominal followed by perineal dissection, by examining serial cross-sections, and by examining median sagittal sections. (2) The series was stained with hematoxylin and eosin to enable identification of nerves, vessels, and smooth and striated muscles. Results: (1) It was found that the rectourethralis muscle is closest to the deep transverse perineal muscle where the longitudinal muscle of the rectum extends into the posteroinferior area of the membranous urethra. The communicating branches of the neurovascular bundle (NVB) were identified at the posterior edge of the rectourethralis muscle on both sides. The rectum was found to be fixed to the membranous urethra through the rectourethral muscle, contributing to the anorectal angle of the anterior rectal wall. (2) Serial cross-sections from the anal to the oral side were examined. At the level of the external anal sphincter, the longitudinal muscle of the rectum was found to extend caudally and divide into two muscle bundles on the oral side of the external anal sphincter. One of these muscle bundles angled dorsally and caudally, forming the conjoined longitudinal muscle, which was found to insert into the intersphincteric space (between the internal and external anal sphincters). The other muscle bundle angled ventrally and caudally, filling the gap between the external anal sphincter and the bulbocavernosus muscle, forming the perineal body. At the level of the superficial transverse perineal muscle, this small muscle bundle headed laterally and intertwined with the longitudinal muscle in the region of the perineal body. At the level of the rectourethralis and deep transverse perineal muscle, the external urethral sphincter was found to occupy an almost completely circular space along the membranous part of the urethra. The dorsal part of the external urethral sphincter was found to be thin at the point of attachment of the rectourethralis muscle, the ventral part of the longitudinal muscle of the rectum. We identified a venous plexus from the NVB located close to the oral and ventral side of the deep transverse perineal muscle. Many vascular branches from the NVB were found to be penetrating the longitudinal muscle and the ventral part of rectourethralis muscle at the level of the apex of the prostate. The rectourethral muscle was wrapped ventrally around the membranous urethra and apex of the prostate. The boundary between the longitudinal muscle and prostate gradually became more distinct, being located at the anterior end of the transabdominal dissection plane. (3) Histological examination showed that the dorsal part of the external urethral sphincter (striated muscle) is thin adjacent to the striated muscle fibers from the deep transverse perineal muscle and the NVB dorsally and close by. The rectourethral muscle was found to fill the space created by the internal anal sphincter, deep transverse perineal muscle, and both levator ani muscles. Many tortuous vessels and tiny nerve fibers from the NVB were identified penetrating the muscle fibers of the deep transverse perineal and rectourethral muscles. The structure of the superficial transverse perineal muscle was typical of striated muscle. These findings were reconstructed three-dimensionally. Conclusions: In intersphincteric resection or abdominoperineal resection for very low rectal cancer, the anterior dissection plane behind Denonvilliers' fascia disappears at the level of the apex of the prostate. The prostate and both NVBs should be used as landmarks during transanal dissection of the non-surgical plane. The rectourethralis muscle should be divided near the rectum side unless tumor involvement is suspected. The superficial and deep transverse perineal muscles, as well as their supplied vessels and nerve fibers from the NVB. In addition, the cutting direction should be adjusted according to the anorectal angle to minimize urethral injury.

Network meta-analysis comparing the clinical outcomes and safety of robotic, laparoscopic, and transanal total rectal mesenteric resection for rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To methodically assess the clinical effectiveness and safety of robot-assisted total rectal mesenteric resection (RTME), laparoscopic-assisted total rectal mesenteric resection (laTME), and transanal total rectal mesenteric resection (taTME). Methods: A computer search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Ovid databases to identify English-language reports published between January 2017 and January 2022 that compared the clinical efficacy of the three surgical procedures of RTME, laTME, and taTME. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the NOS and JADAD scales for retrospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials, respectively. Direct meta-analysis and reticulated meta-analysis were performed using Review Manager software and R software, respectively. Results: Twenty-nine publications comprising 8,339 patients with rectal cancer were ultimately included. The direct meta-analysis indicated that the length of hospital stay was longer after RTME than after taTME, whereas according to the reticulated meta-analysis the length of hospital stay was shorter after taTME than after laTME (MD=-0.86, 95%CI: -1.70 to -0.096, P=0.036). Moreover, the incidence of anastomotic leak was lower after taTME than after RTME (OR=0.60, 95%CI: 0.39 to 0.91, P=0.018). The incidence of intestinal obstruction was also lower after taTME than after RTME (OR=0.55, 95%CI: 0.31 to 0.94, P=0.037). All of these differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the three surgical procedures regarding the number of lymph nodes cleared, length of the inferior rectal margin, or rate of positive circumferential margins (all P>0.05). An inconsistency test using nodal analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between the results of direct and indirect comparisons of the six outcome indicators (all P>0.05). Furthermore, we detected no significant overall inconsistency between direct and indirect evidence. Conclusion: taTME has advantages over RTME and laTME, in terms of radical and surgical short-term outcomes in patients with rectal cancer.

Advances in tumor regression patterns and safe distance of distal resection margin after neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Neoadjuvant therapy has been widely applied in the treatment of rectal cancer, which can shrink tumor size, lower tumor staging and improve the prognosis. It has been the standard preoperative treatment for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. The efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer patients varies between individuals, and the results of tumor regression are obviously different. Some patients with good tumor regression even achieve pathological complete response (pCR). Tumor regression is of great significance for the selection of surgical regimes and the determination of distal resection margin. However, few studies focus on tumor regression patterns. Controversies on the safe distance of distal resection margin after neoadjuvant treatment still exist. Therefore, based on the current research progress, this review summarized the main tumor regression patterns after neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer, and classified them into three types: tumor shrinkage, tumor fragmentation, and mucin pool formation. And macroscopic regression and microscopic regression of tumors were compared to describe the phenomenon of non-synchronous regression. Then, the safety of non-surgical treatment for patients with clinical complete response (cCR) was analyzed to elaborate the necessity of surgical treatment. Finally, the review studied the safe surgical resection range to explore the safe distance of distal resection margin.

Difficulties and challenges of pelvic exenteration in locally advanced rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

In recent years, with advances in pelvic oncology and surgical techniques, surgeons have redefined the boundaries of pelvic surgery. Combined pelvic exenteration is now considered the treatment of choice for some patients with locally advanced and locally recurrent rectal cancer, but it is only performed in a few hospitals in China due to the complexity of the procedure and the large extent of resection, complications, and high perioperative mortality. Although there have been great advances in oncologic drugs and surgical techniques and equipment in recent years, there are still many controversies and challenges in the preoperative assessment of combined pelvic organ resection, neoadjuvant treatment selection and perioperative treatment strategies. Adequate understanding of the anatomical features of the pelvic organs, close collaboration of the clinical multidisciplinary team, objective assessment and standardized preoperative combination therapy creates the conditions for radical surgical resection of recurrent and complex locally advanced rectal cancer, while the need for rational and standardized R0 resection still has the potential to bring new hope to patients with locally advanced and recurrent rectal cancer.

Analysis of the causes of long-standing pelvic anterior sacral space infection and discussion of management techniques / 中华肿瘤杂志

Objective: To investigate the causes and management of long-term persistent pelvic presacral space infection. Methods: Clinical data of 10 patients with persistent presacral infection admitted to the Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University from October 2015 to October 2020 were collected. Different surgical approaches were used to treat the presacral infection according to the patients' initial surgical procedures. Results: Among the 10 patients, there were 2 cases of presacral recurrent infection due to rectal leak after radiotherapy for cervical cancer, 3 cases of presacral recurrent infection due to rectal leak after radiotherapy for rectal cancer Dixons, and 5 cases of presacral recurrent infection of sinus tract after adjuvant radiotherapy for rectal cancer Miles. Of the 5 patients with leaky bowel, 4 had complete resection of the ruptured nonfunctional bowel and complete debridement of the presacral infection using an anterior transverse sacral incision with a large tipped omentum filling the presacral space; 1 had continuous drainage of the anal canal and complete debridement of the presacral infection using an anterior transverse sacral incision. 5 post-Miles patients all had debridement of the presacral infection using an anterior transverse sacral incision combined with an abdominal incision. The nine patients with healed presacral infection recovered from surgery in 26 to 210 days, with a median time of 55 days. Conclusions: Anterior sacral infections in patients with leaky gut are caused by residual bowel secretion of intestinal fluid into the anterior sacral space, and in post-Miles patients by residual anterior sacral foreign bodies. An anterior sacral caudal transverse arc incision combined with an abdominal incision is an effective surgical approach for complete debridement of anterior sacral recalcitrant infections.

Endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the rectovaginal septum: A case report / 中南大学学报(医学版)

Primary endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the rectovaginal septum is rare. Its pathogenesis is not clear and there is no standard treatment. One patient with endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the rectovaginal septum arising from deep infiltrative endometriosis was admitted to Qingdao Municipal Hospital. The patient presented with incessant menstruation and abdominal distension. She had bilateral ovarian endometriotic cystectomy 6 years ago. Imaging findings suggested a pelvic mass which might invade the rectovaginal septum. Pathological results of primary surgery confirmed endometrioid carcinoma of the pelvic mass arising from the rectovaginal septum. Then she had a comprehensive staged surgery. Postoperative chemotherapy was given 6 times. No recurrence or metastasis was found during the 2-year follow-up. The possibility of deep infiltrating endometriosis and its malignant transformation should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a new extragonadal pelvic lesion in a patient with a history of endometriosis, which would avoid misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis.

Chinese expert consensus on definition and terminology of colon and rectum: mesentery, fascia, and space (2023 edition) / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Anatomy is the foundation of surgery. However, traditional anatomical concepts based on autopsy are no longer sufficient to guide the development of modern surgery. With the advancement of histology and embryology and application of high-resolution laparoscopic technology, surgical anatomy has gradually developed. Meanwhile, some important concepts and terms used to guide surgery have emerged, including: mesentery, fascia, and space. The confusing, controversial, and even inaccurate definitions and anatomical terms related to colorectal surgery seriously affect academic communication and the training of young surgeons. Therefore, the Chinese Society of Colorectal Surgeons, the Chinese Society of Colorectal Surgery, National Health Commission Capacity Building and Continuing Education Center, and China Sexology Association of Colorectal Functional Surgery organized colorectal surgeons to make consensus on the definition and terminology of mesentery, fascia, and space related to colon and rectum, to promote surgeons' understanding of modern anatomy related to colorectal surgery and promote academic communication.

Correlation of endoscopic findings with suspected intestinal endometriosis in the distal sigmoid and rectum as observed on transrectal ultrasonography

Introduction: Colonoscopy enables detailed endoscopic evaluation of the interior of the colon. Changes observed via colonoscopy may be subtle or pronounced and can sometimes mimic those of other diseases, such as deep intestinal endometriosis. The diagnosis of endometriosis in the distal sigmoid and rectum by colonoscopy has been described in previous case reports. Objective: We aimed to correlate the endoscopic changes found in the distal sigmoid and rectum with the presence of endometrial deposits confirmed by transrectal ultrasound (TRUS). Methods: We included 50 female patients referred to the endoscopy department at our institution for colonoscopy, rectosigmoidoscopy, or TRUS, who exhibited one or more symptoms associated with endometriosis. Results: The colonoscopic findings were normal in 36 patients but showed alterations in 14 patients. Among the latter, TRUS revealed involvement of the sigmoid and/or rectal wall in 11 patients. Conclusions: The endoscopic changes in the distal sigmoid or rectum described in this study were strongly associated with endometrial deposits confirmed using TRUS. (AU)

Câncer de reto: qual a melhor técnica para excisão total do mesorreto laparoscópica ou robótica? / Rectum cancer: which is the best technique for total excision of the mesorectum laparoscopic or robotic?

Introdução: As operações laparoscópicas, assistidas por robô e a abertas são técnicas cirúrgicas comumente utilizadas na vida diária. A viabilidade e os resultados em curto e longo prazos dos procedimentos laparoscópicos e robóticos têm sido amplamente relatados. Objetivos: Comparar os dados clínicos e oncológicos da cirurgia assistida por robô e laparoscópica no câncer retal. Métodos: Foram pesquisados o Pubmed/Medline, Embase, e Cochrane Library para artigos relevantes publicados até 2021. Estudos baseados na comparabilidade entre operação assistida por robô e laparoscópica para câncer retal foram designados. Os parâmetros analisados incluíram tempo operatório, conversão para procedimento aberto, perda estimada de sangue, tempo de recuperação da função intestinal, tempo de internação, vazamento da anastomose e complicações pós-operatórias. Resultados: Operação assistida por robô foi associada com maior tempo operatório (342 vs.192 min na cirurgia laparoscópica, p<0,001), menor conversão para procedimento aberto, menor tempo de internação hospitalar e recuperação mais rápida da função intestinal, menores complicações pós-operatórias de forma significativa (p=0,041). A perda estimada de sangue, a taxa de vazamento da anastomose e os resultados oncológicos, incluindo o número de linfonodos extraídos, não mostraram diferenças significativas entre os grupos. Conclusão: A cirurgia assistida por robô para câncer retal mostrou maior tempo operatório, menor conversão, taxas de recuperação da função intestinal mais rápidas e menor permanência no hospital. Seus resultados oncológicos forram semelhantes à cirurgia laparoscópica.

Introduction: Laparoscopic surgery, robot-assisted surgery and open surgery are the most commonly used surgical techniques in daily living. The feasibility and short- and long-term results of laparoscopic and robotic procedures have been widely reported. Objectives: To compare the clinical and oncological results of robot-assisted and laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer. Methods: PubMed/Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library were searched for relevant articles published until 2021. Studies based on comparability between robot-assisted and laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer were designed. The parameters analyzed included operative time, conversion to open surgery, estimated blood loss, bowel function recovery time, length of hospital stay, anastomosis leak, and postoperative complications. Results: The robot-assisted surgery group was associated with longer operative time (342 vs. 192 min in laparoscopic surgery,p <0.001), lower conversion to open surgery, shorter length of hospital stay, faster bowel function recovery and lower postoperative complications significantly (p=0.041). Estimated blood loss, anastomosis leak rate, and oncological outcomes including the number of lymph nodes extracted showed no significant differences between groups. Conclusion: Robot-assisted surgery for rectal cancer showed longer operative time, lower conversion, faster bowel function recovery rates, shorter hospital stay, and similar oncological outcomes compared to laparoscopic surgery.

Watch and wait, worth It?

Background: The surgery with total mesorectal excision recommended by R. J. Heald in 1982 is the gold standard. Rectal cancer (RC) surgery has a morbidity rate ranging from 6 to 35%, and it can cause functional issues such as sexual, urinary, and bowel dysfunction in the long term. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) has been gaining ground in patients with lesions in the middle and lower rectum. The aim of the present study is to present the experience of a reference service in the treatment of RC. Patients and Methods: A retrospective study involving 53 patients diagnosed with RC between January 2017 and December 2019 with follow-up until December 2020. We examined tumor location, disease stage, digital rectal exam findings, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), therapeutic modality offered, and follow-up time. Results: A total of 32% of the patients were men and 68% were women, with a mean age of 60 years old. Location: upper rectum in 6 cases, middle rectum in 21 cases, and lower rectum in 26 cases with evolution from 9.8 to 13.5 months. The most frequent complaints were hematochezia and constipation. A total of 36 patients underwent neoadjuvant therapy: 11 complete clinical response (CCR) (30.5%), 20 (55.5%) partial clinical response (PCR), and no response in 5 patients (14%). The follow-up ranged from 12 to 48 months, with a mean of 30.5 months. A total of 25% of the patients had RC that went beyond the mesorectal fascia, and 22.64% had metastases in other parts of the body when they were diagnosed. Conclusion: Neoadjuvant radio and chemotherapy present themselves as an alternative in the treatment of rectal cancer. In 36 patients, 30.5% had a complete clinical response, 55.5% had a partial clinical response, and 14% had no response. It was worth doing the "Watch and Wait" (W&W) to sample. A definitive colostomy was avoided. However, it is necessary to expand the study to a larger follow-up and more patients. Additionally, it is necessary to implement a multicenter study. (AU)