Resultados del tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer de recto y ano en el Hospital Español / Results of the surgical treatment of rectal and anal cancer in the Hospital Español / Resultados do tratamento cirúrgico do câncer de reto e ânus no Hospital Español

La cirugía del cáncer de recto y ano se ha desarrollado considerablemente en las últimas décadas. En función de dichos avances, se ha observado una disminución en la morbimortalidad operatoria, así como también una mejoría en el pronóstico de estos pacientes. El objetivo del presente estudio es exponer y analizar los resultados del tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer de recto y ano en un servicio universitario. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo de todos los pacientes intervenidos por cáncer de recto y ano en el Hospital Español entre 2016 y 2020. Las variables registradas fueron: variables demográficas, clínico-oncológicas, relacionadas a la morbimortalidad operatoria y a la recidiva locorregional, y la sobrevida a 5 años. El procedimiento más realizado fue la resección anterior de recto (RAR) en 11 intervenciones (58%), mientras que las 8 restantes correspondieron a amputaciones abdominoperineales (AAP) (42%). Se diagnosticaron un total de 6 complicaciones intraoperatorias en 5 pacientes, siendo la perforación del tumor la más frecuente, y un total de 18 complicaciones postoperatorias en 11 pacientes, siendo la más frecuente la infección de la herida quirúrgica abdominal. La morbilidad operatoria mayor fue de 31,6% y la mortalidad operatoria a 90 días fue de 0%. La sobrevida global a 5 años fue de 63,2%. Los resultados quirúrgicos en la presente casuística fueron comparables con los de la bibliografía consultada. Destacamos la nula mortalidad a 90 días, con resultados oncológicos similares a los reportados en la literatura.

Rectal and anus surgery have been developed considerably in the last decades. Based on these advancements, it has been observed a decrease in the surgical morbidity and mortality, as well as an improved prognosis of these patients. The aim of the present study is to expose and analyze the results of the anus and rectal surgical treatment in a university service. An observational, descriptive and retrospective study was performed of all the intervened patients for rectum and anus cancer in the Hospital Español between 2016 and 2020. We recorded data about demographic, clinical-oncologic, related to the surgical morbidity and mortality, locoregional relapse and overall 5 year survival. The most performed procedure was the rectum anterior resection in 11 interventions (58%), while the 8 left corresponded to abdominoperineal resection (42%). There was a total of 6 intraoperative complications diagnosed in 5 patients, being the tumor perforation the most frequent one, and a total of 18 postoperative complications diagnosed in 11 patients, being the surgical wound infection the most frequent one. The serious surgical morbidity was 31,6%, while the surgical mortality rate at 90 days was 0%. Overall 5 year survival was 63,2%. The surgical results in the present study about the rectum and anal cancer were comparable with the results reported on the consulted bibliography. We highlight the null mortality within 90 days, with oncologic results similar to the ones reported in the literature.

A cirurgia do câncer retal e anal desenvolveu-se consideravelmente nas últimas décadas. Com base nesses avanços, observou-se diminuição da morbimortalidade operatória, bem como melhora no prognóstico desses pacientes. O objetivo deste estudo é apresentar e analisar os resultados do tratamento cirúrgico do câncer de reto e anal em um serviço universitário. Foi realizado um estudo observacional, descritivo e retrospectivo de todos os pacientes operados por câncer de reto e ânus no Hospital Espanhol entre 2016 e 2020. As variáveis ​​registradas foram: variáveis ​​demográficas, clínico-oncológicas, relacionadas à morbidade e mortalidade operatórias e recorrência locorregional. , e sobrevida em 5 anos. O procedimento mais realizado foi a ressecção anterior do reto (RAR) em 11 intervenções (58%) e as 8 restantes corresponderam a amputações abdominoperineais (AAP) (42%). Foram diagnosticadas 6 complicações intraoperatórias em 5 pacientes, sendo a perfuração tumoral a mais frequente, e um total de 18 complicações pós-operatórias em 11 pacientes, sendo a infecção da ferida operatória abdominal a mais frequente. A morbidade operatória maior foi de 31,6% e a mortalidade operatória em 90 dias foi de 0%. A sobrevida global em 5 anos foi de 63,2%. Os resultados cirúrgicos da presente casuística foram comparáveis ​​aos da bibliografia consultada. Destacamos a mortalidade nula em 90 dias, com resultados oncológicos semelhantes aos relatados na literatura.

A way to start transanal total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer

Introduction: The optimal rectal cancer care is achieved by a multidisciplinary approach, with a high-quality surgical resection, with complete mesorectal excision and adequate margins. New approaches like the transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) aim to achieve these goals, maximizing the sphincter preservation ratio, with good oncologic and functional results. This report describes a way to implement TaTME without a proctor, presents the first case series of this approach in a center experienced in rectal cancer, and compares the results with those of the international literature. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of the first 10 consecutive patients submitted to TaTME for rectal cancer at our institution. The primary outcomes were postoperative complications, pathological specimen quality and local recurrence rate. The results and performance were compared with the outcomes of a known structured program with proctorship and with the largest meta-analysis on this topic. Results: All patients had locally advanced cancer; therefore, all underwent neoadjuvant therapy. A total of 30% had postoperative complications, without mortality or re-admissions. In comparison with the structured training program referred, no differences were found in postoperative complications and reintervention rates, resulting in a similar quality of resection. Comparing these results with those of the largest meta-analysis on the subject, no differences in the postoperative complication rates were found, and very similar outcomes regarding anastomotic leaks and oncological quality of resection were registered. Conclusion: The results of this study validate the safety and effectiveness of our pathway regarding the implementation of the TaTME approach, highlighting the fact that it should be done in a center with proficiency in minimally invasive rectal surgery. (AU)

McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome secondary to rectal adenocarcinoma

Introduction: McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome is a rare condition that arises from a hypersecretory state secondary to large colorectal tumors, mainly villous adenomas, leading to an electrolytic disorder associated with chronic diarrhea that usually persists for years. It is a relatively unknown disease that can lead to severe complications such as acute kidney injury, severe hyponatremia, and hypokalemia. In fact, it causes death in most untreated cases. Surgical removal of the tumor is the most successful treatment, and symptoms tend to disappear after proper management. Case Report: A 62-year-old man with a 2-year history of mucoid diarrhea preceded by abdominal pain presented with acute kidney injury, hyponatremia, and hypokalemia. A digital rectal examination and sigmoidoscopy were performed, and revealed a large laterally-spreading tumor in the rectum. Further investigation showed a rectal tubulovillous adenoma with secondary McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome. An anterior resection of the rectum with a colonic J-pouch and a diverting ileostomy were performed, and the patient improved with the resolution of the renal failure and electrolyte disturbances. The histopathological analysis revealed an invasive rectal adenocarcinoma. Discussion: McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome is a condition with a low incidence that needs early intervention and proper diagnosis. It is of extreme importance that this disease is included in the differential diagnoses for chronic diarrhea associated with an electrolytic disorder. (AU)

Anti-Chido/Rodgers antibodies in a patient with infectious disease / Anticuerpos anti-Chido/Rodgers en paciente con enfermedad infecciosa

Introduction: Red cell alloimmunization is an immune response against foreign red cell antigens, usually occurring due to sensibilization in blood transfusions and pregnancies. The Chido (Ch) and Rodgers (Rg) antigens are present in about 96-98 percent of the population in general. Patients who have antibodies against antigens of high frequency in the population are a problem for transfusion medicine. Objectives: To describe the case of a patient diagnosed with AIDS and invasive cancer of the rectum with a recent hospitalization for lower gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia with the presence of anti-Ch and anti-Rg and the difficulties and solutions found for handling the case. Case presentation: Anti-Ch and anti-Rg have not been found to cause a hemolytic transfusion reaction (HTR) or hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). However, the clinical presentation and laboratory findings including the immunohematological workups concerning the reaction are discussed, with a special emphasis on the benefit of identifying such an antibody and providing a compatible blood unit for transfusion support of the patient. Conclusions: When an antibody against a high-frequency erythrocyte antigen is identified in African or American-descent, anti-Ch or anti-Rg should be considered and that transfusion tests should not be delayed due to its clinical importance(AU)

Introducción: La aloinmunización de glóbulos rojos es una respuesta inmune frente a antígenos de glóbulos rojos extraños, que pueden ocurrir por sensibilización en transfusiones de sangre y embarazos. Los antígenos Chido (Ch) y Rodgers (Rg) están presentes en aproximadamente el 96-98 por ciento de la mayoría de la población. Los pacientes que tienen anticuerpos contra antígenos de alta frecuencia poblacional son un problema para la medicina transfusional. Objetivos: Describir caso de un paciente diagnosticado de AIDS y cáncer invasivo de recto con hospitalización reciente por hemorragia digestiva baja y anemia con presencia de anti-Ch y anti-Rg y las dificultades y soluciones encontradas para el manejo del caso. Presentación de caso: No se ha encontrado que Anti-Ch y anti-Rg causen reacciones hemolíticas transfusionales y enfermedad hemolítica del recién nacido. Sin embargo, se discuten la presentación clínica y los hallazgos de laboratorio, incluidos los estudios inmunohematológicos con respecto a la reacción, con especial énfasis en el beneficio de identificar dicho anticuerpo y obtener una unidad de sangre para transfusión que respalde al paciente con respecto a proporcionar una unidad compatible. Conclusiones: Cuando se identifica anticuerpos contra un antígeno eritrocitario de alta frecuencia, en afrodescendientes o americanos, se deben considerar Anti-Ch o anti-Rg y no retrasar las pruebas de transfusión por su importancia clínica(AU)

Microcirugía transanal endoscópica como tratamiento de los tumores benignos del recto / Endoscopic Transanal Microsurgery as a Treatment of Benign Rectal Tumors

Introducción: La microcirugía transanal endoscópica es un procedimiento mínimamente invasivo para el tratamiento local de los grandes adenomas y los cánceres en estadios iniciales del recto. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados de la microcirugía transanal endoscópica en los pacientes con tumores benignos del recto en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso de La Habana. Método: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de una base de datos prospectiva de 15 años. Se les ejecutó a un total de 91 pacientes con tumores benignos del recto la microcirugía transanal endoscópica entre abril de 2004 y diciembre de 2019. Se incluyeron las variables: edad, sexo, indicación, tiempo quirúrgico, localización del tumor, tamaño tumoral, estancia hospitalaria, complicaciones posoperatorias y recidiva local. Resultados: La principal indicación fue el adenoma del recto con 70 (76,9 por ciento) pacientes. La edad media fue de 63,4 años, el tiempo quirúrgico 81,1 minutos y el tamaño tumoral 3,5 cm. La estancia hospitalaria fue de 1 día y las complicaciones posoperatorias fueron 4 (4,3 por ciento): dos sangramientos, una dehiscencia de sutura y una estenosis. Dos pacientes (2,8 por ciento) tuvieron recidiva local en el grupo de los adenomas y no se realizaron conversiones a cirugía laparoscópica o cirugía abierta. Conclusión: La microcirugía transanal endoscópica fue una técnica factible y segura en el tratamiento de los adenomas del recto no resecables endoscópicamente, adenomas con displasia de alto grado y en otros tumores del recto(AU)

Introduction: Endoscopic transanal microsurgery is a minimally invasive procedure for local treatment of large adenomas and early-stage rectal cancers. Objective: To assess the outcomes of endoscopic transanal microsurgery in patients with benign rectal tumors at the National Center for Minimal Access Surgery in Havana. Methods: A retrospective study of a 15-year prospective database was carried out. A total of 91 patients with benign rectal tumors underwent endoscopic transanal microsurgery between April 2004 and December 2019. The following variables were included: age, sex, indication, surgical time, tumor location, tumor size, hospital stay, postoperative complications and local recurrence. Results: The main indication was rectal adenoma, accounting for 70 (76.9 percent) patients. The mean age was 63.4 years, surgical time was 81.1 minutes and tumor size was 3.5 cm. Hospital stay was one day. Postoperative complications were four (4.3 percent): two bleedings, one suture dehiscence and one stenosis. Two patients (2.8 percent) had local recurrence in the adenoma group. No conversions to laparoscopic or open surgery were performed. Conclusion: Endoscopic transanal microsurgery was a feasible and safe technique in the treatment of endoscopically unresectable rectal adenomas, adenomas with high-grade dysplasia and other rectal tumors.

Diagnosis of advanced disease in cases of colorectal cancer in a developing country

Objectives Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the world, with survival correlated with the extension of the disease at diagnosis. In many low-/middle-income countries, the incidence of CRC is increasing rapidly, while decreasing rates are observed in high-income countries. We evaluated the anatomopathological profile of 390 patients diagnosed with CRC who underwent surgical resection, over a six-year period, in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Results Adenocarcinomas accounted for 98% of the cases of primary colorectal tumors, and 53.8% occurred in female patients. The average age of the sample was 63.5 years, with 81.8% of individuals older than 50 years of age and 6.4% under 40 years of age. The most frequent location was the distal colon; pT3 status was found in 71% of patients, and pT4 status, in 14.4%. Angiolymphatic and lymph-node involvements were found in 48.7% and 46.9% of the cases respectively. Distant metastasis was observed in 9.2% of the patients. Advanced disease was diagnosed in almost half of the patients (48.1%). The women in the sample had poorly-differentiated adenocarcinomas (p=0.043). Patients under 60 years of age had a higher rate of lymph-node metastasis (p=0.044). Tumor budding was present in 27.2% of the cases, and it was associated with the female gender, themucinous histological type, and the depth of invasion (pT3 and pT4). Conclusions We conclude that the diagnosis of advanced disease in CRC is still a reality, with a high occurrence of aggressive prognostic factors, which results in a worse prognosis. (AU)

Tissue factor expression in colorectal adenocarcinoma: association with angiogenesis and clinical and pathological aspects

Introduction: Tissue factor (TF) expression has been described in various neoplasms and was correlated with angiogenesis and metastases. Objectives: To describe TF expression in colorectal cancers, correlating it with microvessel density and clinical and pathological variables. Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used to determine TF expression and microvessel density. The Student t-test was used to compare high and low TF expression with microvessel density andwith age. The chi-squared test was used for other comparisons, and Kaplan-Meier curves were used for survival analyses. Results: Forty-three patients were operated with curative intent. Their mean age was 58.1±12.6 years old, and 62.8% were male. The rectum was the most common location (60,4%), and most tumors reached the serosa and peri-intestinal fat (72.1%). Lymph nodes were positive in 46.5%, and 72.1% of the tumors were moderately differentiated adenocarcinomas. Death occurred in 27.6±12.8months in 51.1% of the patients who had recurrence. Tissue factor expression was intense in 88.4%. There was a positive correlation between TF expression and microvessel density (p=0.02), and between TF and older age (p< 0.01). There was no correlation between TF expression and other variables (gender, histological type, penetration into the intestinal wall, and lymphatic and systemic metastases). Tissue factor expression did not correlate with survival. Conclusion: Tissue factor expression correlated with increased microvessel density and older age. Further studies are necessary to ascertain the clinical relevance of TF in colorectal cancer. (AU)

Rectal Cancer: Management Trends and Changes. Concepts for Gastroenterologists and Surgeons / Cáncer de recto: tendencias y cambios en el manejo. Conceptos para el gastroenterólogo y el cirujano

Abstract Rectal cancer is the third most frequent cancer in Colombia and constitutes a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for gastroenterologists, surgeons, and oncologists. Diagnostic evaluation and the study of its locoregional and systemic extension have been modified by new imaging methods, enabling an accurate view of anatomical structures that could not be easily examined before. The availability of these new tools in disease staging has significantly impacted therapeutic decisions and the choice of a specific treatment path for each patient, rationalizing the use of neoadjuvant therapies and the performance of surgery with correct anatomical criteria. The preceding has been essential to achieving the best outcomes with the least associated postoperative morbidity. This article will review and explain in detail the most recent changes and up-to-date recommendations for managing rectal cancer.

Resumen El cáncer de recto es el tercer cáncer en frecuencia en Colombia, y constituye un reto diagnóstico y terapéutico para gastroenterólogos, cirujanos y oncólogos. La evaluación diagnóstica y el estudio de su extensión locorregional y sistémica se han modificado por nuevos métodos de imagen, que permiten una visualización precisa de estructuras anatómicas que antes no se podían evaluar fácilmente. La disponibilidad de estas nuevas herramientas en la estadificación de la enfermedad ha tenido un gran impacto en las decisiones terapéuticas y en la escogencia de una ruta de tratamiento específica para cada paciente, lo que ha racionalizado el uso de terapias neoadyuvantes y la realización de cirugía con criterios anatómicos correctos. Esto ha sido fundamental en el objetivo de lograr los mejores desenlaces con la menor morbilidad posoperatoria asociada. En este artículo se revisarán y explicarán en detalle cuáles han sido los cambios más recientes y las recomendaciones más actualizadas para el manejo del cáncer de recto.

Comparison between laparoscopic-assisted natural orifice specimen extraction surgery and conventional laparoscopic surgery for left colorectal cancer: a randomized controlled study with 3-year follow-up results / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To evaluate the mid-term efficacy of laparoscopic-assisted natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) colectomy using the Cai tube in the treatment of left colorectal cancer. Methods: A prospective randomized control trial (China Clinical Trials Registration Number: ChiCTR-OOR-15007060) was performed. Sixty patients with left colorectal cancer at Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery of Zhongshan Hospital from September 2015 to August 2017 were prospectively enrolled. Case inclusion criteria: (1) left colorectal adenocarcinoma (rectal cancer with distance ≥ 8 cm from tumor low margin to anal edge, sigmoid colon cancer, descending colon cancer and left transverse colon cancer) confirmed by preoperative pathology; (2) satisfactory conditions of conventional laparoscopic surgery; (3) maximum diameter of the tumor < 4.5 cm confirmed by preoperative abdominal and pelvic CT or MRI; (4) BMI < 30 kg/m2. Case exclusion criteria: (1) benign lesions, mucinous adenocarcinoma, signet-ring cell carcinoma and other special pathological types of tumors confirmed by preoperative pathological examination; (2) multiple or recurrent cancers; (3) with a history of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy; (4) obvious regional infiltration or distant metastasis indicated by preoperative imaging examination; (5) intestinal obstruction, intestinal perforation, etc. Participants were randomly assigned to NOSES group (using the Cai tube) and conventional laparoscopy (CL) group by random number table method. Clinical data between two groups were compared and analyzed, including perioperative conditions, tumor exfoliation cell detection and bacterial culture results of intraperitoneal lavage fluid, postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grading), postoperative pain [visual simulation scoring (VAS) assessment], anal function (Kirwan anal function grading assessment), and postoperative 3-year disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), overall recurrence rate, and local recurrence rate. Results: A total of 60 patients were enrolled, with 30 in the NOSES group and 30 in the CL group. All the patients in the NOSES group successfully completed operation with Cai tube. Baseline data between the two groups were not significantly different (all P>0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between two groups in conversion rate to open surgery, number of lymph node harivested, proximal and distal resection margin of tumor, negative rate of circumferential margin, operation time, blood loss, inflammatory indexes, postoperative anal function, postoperative hospital stay, hospitalization cost, morbidity of postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade II or above) (all P>0.05). Compared to the CL group, the NOSES group had lower maximum postoperative VAS score (2.5±0.3 vs. 5.1±0.4, t=3.187, P<0.01), and fewer use of additional postoperative analgesia [6.7% (2/30) vs. 33.3% (10/30),χ2=6.670, P=0.02]. The postoperative time to gas passage was shorter in the NOSES group [(2.2±1.4) days vs. (3.1±1.2) days,P=0.026]. No tumor cells and bacterial contamination were found in abdominal lavage fluid before and after operation in either group. The anal function at postoperative 3-month of all the patients in the NOSES group was Kirwan grade I to II, while in the CL group, anal function of 2 cases (6.7%) was Kirwan grade III, and of 28 cases was also Kirwan grade I to II, whose difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). In the NOSES group and the CL group, 3-year DFS was 96.7% and 83.3% (P=0.090), OS was 100% and 90% (P=0.096), overall recurrence rate was 3.3% and 10.0% (P=0.166), and local recurrence rate was 3.3% and 3.3% (P=0.999), respectively, whose differences were not statistically significant (all P>0.05). Conclusions: In the treatment of left colorectal cancer, compared with conventional laparoscopic colectomy, NOSES colectomy using Cai tube exhibits less scar, less postoperative pain, shorter recovery of gastrointestinal function, and similar mid-term outcomes. Given proper surgical indications, the surgical procedure is safe and feasible.

Current status of research on short-term urogenital function after transanal total mesorectal excision and laparoscopic total mesorectal excision / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Thanks to the new surgical approach, transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) has a better operative field exposure than laparoscopic-assisted total mesorectal excision (laTME), especially for male patients with obesity, pelvic stenosis or prostate hypertrophy. Nevertheless, whether the urogenital function and quality of life after taTME are better as compared to laTME requires further study. According to the existing studies, taTME and laTME are not significantly different in symptoms of the urology system for male patients, but some large sample clinical studies show that the incidence of urethral mechanical injury after taTME is higher. Unfortunately, there is no elaboration on that for females. The sexual function of male patients after taTME and laTME is both impaired. The sexual function of male patients will be relieved to different degrees over time, but there is no significant difference. Compared with laTME, taTME shows advantages in the sexual function for female patients. There is no significant difference in short-term urogenital system function between taTME and laTME at present. As a new surgical approach, the impact on urogenital system function after taTME is acceptable. However, whether there is a significant difference in urogenital function between taTME and laTME needs further research. In addition, functional results still need comprehensive evaluation, and preoperative baseline evaluation also needs to be enhanced. The functional evaluation for male and female should be carried out separately rather than confused. Questionnaire for evaluation of functional results also needs to be verified.

Efficacy and safety of total neoadjuvant therapy versus neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer: a meta-analysis / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) in the comprehensive treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer. Methods: Literatures were screened from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CBM, Wanfang Data, VIP and CNKI from the inception date to May 2021 to collect the randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) of TNT followed by total mesorectal excision (TME) versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy (nCRT) followed by TME in the treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer. The data of overall survival, disease-free survival, R0 radical resection rate, pathological complete response (pCR) rate, T downstaging rate, the incidence of adverse events ≥ grade III, including neutropenia, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, radiation dermatitis and nervous system toxicity, and the morbidity of complications within postoperative 30 days of the two groups were extracted from the included literatures. Review Manager 5.3 software was utilized for statistical meta-analysis. Results: Nine RCTs were finally enrolled including 2430 patients. Meta-analysis results showed that compared with nCRT group, patients in TNT group had longer overall survival (HR=0.80, 95%CI: 0.65-0.97, P=0.03) and higher pCR rate (RR=1.73, 95%CI: 1.44-2.08, P<0.01) with significant differences. Besides, there were no significant differences between two groups in disease-free survival (HR=0.86, 95%CI:0.71-1.05, P=0.14), R0 radical resection rate (RR=1.02, 95%CI: 0.99-1.06, P=0.17) and T downstaging rate (RR=1.04, 95%CI: 0.89-1.22, P=0.58) between two groups. In terms of treatment safety, the incidence of adverse events ≥ grade III (RR=1.09, 95%CI: 0.70-1.70, P=0.70) and morbidity of complications within postoperative 30 days (RR=1.07, 95%CI: 0.97-1.18, P=0.19) did not significantly differ between two groups. Conclusions: In the treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer, TNT may bring more survival benefits than nCRT and does not increase the incidence of adverse events and postoperative complications. Therefore, TNT could be used as a recommended treatment for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.

Safety and prognosis analysis of transanal total mesorectal excision versus laparoscopic mesorectal excision for mid-low rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To compare the short-term and long-term outcomes between transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) and laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (laTME) for mid-to-low rectal cancer and to evaluate the learning curve of taTME. Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort study. Firstly, consecutive patients undergoing total mesorectal excision who were registered in the prospective established database of Division of Colorectal Diseases, Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital during July 2014 to June 2020 were recruited. The enrolled patients were divided into taTME and laTME group. The demographic data, clinical characteristics, neoadjuvant treatment, intraoperative and postoperative complications, pathological results and follow-up data were extracted from the database. The primary endpoint was the incidence of anastomotic leakage and the secondary endpoints included the 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) and the 3-year local recurrence rate. Independent t-test for comparison between groups of normally distributed measures; skewed measures were expressed as M (range). Categorical variables were expressed as examples (%) and the χ(2) or Fisher exact probability was used for comparison between groups. When comparing the incidence of anastomotic leakage, 5 variables including sex, BMI, clinical stage evaluated by MRI, distance from tumor to anal margin evaluated by MRI, and whether receiving neoadjuvant treatment were balanced by propensity score matching (PSM) to adjust confounders. Kaplan-Meier curve and Log-rank test were used to compare the DFS of two groups. Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze and determine the independent risk factors affecting the DFS of patients with mid-low rectal cancer. Secondly, the data of consecutive patients undergoing taTME performed by the same surgical team (the trananal procedures were performed by the same main surgeon) from February 2017 to March 2021 were separately extracted and analyzed. The multidimensional cumulative sum (CUSUM) control chart was used to draw the learning curve of taTME. The outcomes of 'mature' taTME cases through learning curve were compared with laTME cases and the independent risk factors of DFS of 'mature' cases were also analyzed. Results: Two hundred and forty-three patients were eventually enrolled, including 182 undergoing laTME and 61 undergoing taTME. After PSM, both fifty-two patients were in laTME group and taTME group respectively, and patients of these two groups had comparable characteristics in sex, age, BMI, clinical tumor stage, distance from tumor to anal margin by MRI, mesorectal fasciae (MRF) and extramural vascular invasion (EMVI) by MRI and proportion of receiving neoadjuvant treatment. After PSM, as compared to laTME group, taTME group showed significantly longer operation time [(198.4±58.3) min vs. (147.9±47.3) min, t=-4.321, P<0.001], higher ratio of blood loss >100 ml during surgery [17.3% (9/52) vs. 0, P=0.003], higher incidence of anastomotic leakage [26.9% (14/52) vs. 3.8% (2/52), χ(2)=10.636, P=0.001] and higher morbidity of overall postoperative complications [55.8%(29/52) vs. 19.2% (10/52), χ(2)=14.810, P<0.001]. Total harvested lymph nodes and circumferential resection margin involvement were comparable between two groups (both P>0.05). The median follow-up for the whole group was 24 (1 to 72) months, with 4 cases lost, giving a follow-up rate of 98.4% (239/243). The laTME group had significantly better 3-year DFS than taTME group (83.9% vs. 73.0%, P=0.019), while the 3-year local recurrence rate was similar in two groups (1.7% vs. 3.6%, P=0.420). Multivariate analysis showed that and taTME surgery (HR=3.202, 95%CI: 1.592-6.441, P=0.001) the postoperative pathological staging of UICC stage II (HR=13.862, 95%CI:1.810-106.150, P=0.011), stage III (HR=8.705, 95%CI: 1.104-68.670, P=0.040) were independent risk factors for 3-year DFS. Analysis of taTME learning curve revealed that surgeons would cross over the learning stage after performing 28 cases. To compare the two groups excluding the cases within the learning stage, there was no significant difference between two groups after PSM no matter in the incidence of anastomotic leakage [taTME: 6.7%(1/15); laTME: 5.3% (2/38), P=1.000] or overall complications [taTME: 33.3%(5/15), laTME: 26.3%(10/38), P=0.737]. The taTME was still an independent risk factor of 3-year DFS only analyzing patients crossing over the learning stage (HR=5.351, 95%CI:1.666-17.192, P=0.005), and whether crossing over the learning stage was not the independent risk factor of 3-year DFS for mid-low rectal cancer patients undergoing taTME (HR=0.954, 95%CI:0.227-4.017, P=0.949). Conclusions: Compared with conventional laTME, taTME may increase the risk of anastomotic leakage and compromise the oncological outcomes. Performing taTME within the learning stage may significantly increase the risk of postoperative anastomotic leakage.

Anatomical observation and clinical significance of the prostatic part of neurovascular bundle in total mesorectal excision / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To observe the anatomical architecture of the prostatic part of the neurovascular bundle (NVB) in total mesorectal excision (TME). Methods: A descriptive cohort study and an anatomical observation study were carried out. A total of 38 male patients with rectal cancer who underwent TME in the Department of Colorectal Surgery at the affiliated Union hospital of Fujian Medical University between November 2013 and March 2015 were included. A total of 4 hemipelvis were examined at the Laboratory of Clinical Applied Anatomy, Fujian Medical University. The following outcomes were observed: 1) the clinical significance of bleeding of the prostatic part of NVB: surgical videos were reviewed and the incidence of bleeding was recorded. The urogenital function was assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score. The correlation between prostatic part bleeding and postoperative urogenital function was evaluated. 2) anatomical observation: the vessels, nerve fibers, as well as their surrounding fatty tissue from the prostatic part were treated as a whole, namely, the fat pad of the prostatic part. The anatomical architecture of the prostatic part in the surgical videos was reviewed and interpreted with the cadaveric findings. Categorical variables were compared between groups using a Fisher exact probability. while continuous variables with skewed distribution were compared between groups using the Mann-Whiteny U test. Results: The median age of the included 38 patients was 57 years (range, 31-75), and the median tumor distance to the anal verge was 6 cm (range, 1-8). Of them, a total number of 21 (55.3%) patients had bleeding of the prostatic part of NVB (bleeding group), while the rest had not (17 cases, 44.7%, non-bleeding group). 1) the clinical significance of bleeding of the prostatic part of NVB. The urinary function significantly decreased in patients in the bleeding group according to IPSS score after the 3rd month and the 6rd month of the surgery [7 (0-16) vs. 2 (0-3), Z=-1.787, P=0.088; 2 (0-15) vs. 0 (0-2), Z=-2.270, P=0.028]. There was no difference regarding the IPSS score between the two groups after 1 year of the surgery (P>0.05). With a total of 23 patients with normal preoperative sexual activity included, 87.5% (7/8) of patients in the non-bleeding group can expect to return to their preoperative baseline, this incidence was significantly higher than that of only 40% (6/15) in the bleeding group (P=0.029). 2) anatomical observation: for cadaveric observation, the prostatic part of NVB was located in the narrow triangular space composed of anterolateral walls of the rectum, the posterolateral surface of the prostate and the medial surface of the levator ani musculature. The tiny vascular branches and nerve fibers from the prostatic part were hard to identify. The cavernosal nerves cannot reliably be distinguished from the neural supply to the prostate, rectum and levator ani. In the cross-section of levels of prostatic base and mid-prostate in cadaveric hemipelvis specimens, the boundary of the prostatic part fat pad was partly overlapped and merged with the boundary of the mesorectum. Intraoperative observation showed that the areas of overlap referred to the rectal branches from the prostatic part piercing the proper fascia to supply the mesorectum, which carried the largest tension and high risk of bleeding during circumferential dissection toward the perirectal plane. The ultrasonic scalpel was required to pre-coagulate the rectal branches at the point close to the proper fascia of the rectum to prevent bleeding. In the cross-section of the prostatic apex level, the prostatic part approached ventrally and its boundary was away from the boundary of the mesorectum. Conclusions: NVB prostatic part injury is one of the causes of urogenital dysfunction after TME. The nerve fibers from the prostatic part were tiny, and its functional zones cannot be distinguished during operation. Therein, the fat pad of the prostatic part should be protected as a whole. Understanding the morphology of the fat pad of the prostatic part provides invaluable surgical guidance to dissect this critical area. When dissecting around the anterolateral rectal wall, appropriate anti-traction tension should be maintained and the rectal branches from the prostatic part should be coagulated with an ultrasonic scalpel to prevent bleeding.

Reassessment of intersphincteric resection in the sphincter-preserving operation for ultra-low rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Intersphincteric resection (ISR), as an ultra-low sphincter-preserving operation, is widely used in clinical practice at present. ISR can allow some patients with very low rectal cancer to avoid the pain of anal resection while ensuring oncological efficacy. However, the procedure of ISR requires wider intersphincteric dissection which may cause nerve damage, and the removal of partial or total internal anal sphincter as an "inherent defect" of ISR can result in poor anal function postoperatively. Based on the in-depth understanding of regional anatomy and physiological function, the author proposed a new functional sphincter preservation operation for very low rectal cancer-conformal sphincter preservation operation (CSPO) which has achieved good outcome in clinical practice. This article will revisit the brief history of rectal cancer surgery and discuss the main mechanisms underlining the poor anal function after ISR. Based on the anatomical study of the pelvic floor and anal canal, CSPO can improve the postoperative anal function of very low rectal cancer patients by reducing the damage of the autonomic nerves, receptor corpuscles and muscle fibers in the intersphincteric space, retaining more dentate line and internal sphincter with the design of resection line of tumor lower border under direct vision, and elevating the anastomosis height. At the same time, the future treatment prospect of low rectal cancer is envisioned.

Influence of different sphincter-preserving surgeries on postoperative defecation function / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Advances in surgical techniques and treatment concept have allowed more patients with low rectal cancer to preserve sphincter without sacrificing survival benefit. However, postoperative dysfunctions such as fecal incontinence, frequency, urgency, and clustering often occur in patients with low rectal cancer. The main surgical procedures for low rectal cancer include low anterior rectum resection (LAR), intersphincteric resection (ISR), coloanal anastomosis (Parks) and so on. The incidence of major LARS after LAR is up to 84.6%. The postoperative function of ISR is even worse than LAR. Moreover, the greater the extent of resection ISR surgery, the worse the postoperative function. There are few studies on the function of Parks procedure. Current evidence suggests that the short-term function of Parks procedure is inferior to LAR, but function can gradually recovered over time. Colorectal surgeons have attempted to improve postoperative defecation by modifying bowel reconstructions. Current evidence suggests that J pouch or end-to-side anastomosis during LAR does not reduce the incidence of defecation disorders. Pouch reconstruction during ISR cannot reduce the incidence of severe LARS either. In general, the protection of postoperative defecation function in patients with low rectal cancer still has a long way to go.

Interpretation of Chinese expert consensus on protective ostomy for mid-low rectal cancer in China (version 2022) / 中华胃肠外科杂志

This paper describes the background of Chinese expert consensus on protective ostomy for middle and low rectal cancer in China, interprets some key issues such as unification of relevant terminology and concepts, clinical value and indications of protective stoma, and clarifies surgical principles and details and perioperative ostomy care.

Chinese expert consensus on protective ostomy for mid-low rectal cancer (version 2022) / 中华胃肠外科杂志

The rate of sphincter-preserving surgery for mid-low rectal cancer is increasing, but anastomotic leakage remains to be one of the common serious complications after operation. How to reduce the morbility and mortality of anastomotic leakage is always a hot and difficult point in colorectal surgery. Protective ostomy is a common method to deal with the above problems in clinical practice. However, some problems such as inappropriate stoma and stoma-related complications etc. become the current clinical challenges. The purpose of this consensus focusing on indication of ostomy, clinical value, ostomy skills, prevention of stoma complications, reversion of stoma and stoma nursing aims to provide guidance for the clinical practice of protective ostomy in the operation of mid-low rectal cancer in China.

Quality of life of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy and sphincter-preserving surgery / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To investigate quality of life (QoL) of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) who underwent low anterior resection with protective stoma under neoadjuvant therapy mode, and to explore the changes of QoL of patients from before neoadjuvant therapy to 12 months after stoma reversal. Methods: A descriptive case series study was carried out. A retrospective study was performed on patients with mid and low LARC who received complete neoadjuvant long course radiotherapy and chemotherapy, followed by radical low anterior resection (LAR) combined with protective stoma at Peking Union Medical College Hospital from December 2017 to January 2020. Inclusion criteria: (1) patients with rectal MRI assessment of mT3-4b or mN1-2 without distant metastasis (M0) before neoadjuvant therapy; (2) distance from tumor lower margin to the anal verge <12 cm; (3) rectal adenocarcinoma confirmed by biopsy before neoadjuvant therapy; (4) complete cycle of neoadjuvant therapy; (5) patients undergoing radical LAR with sphincter preservation and protective ostomy; (6) patients receiving follow-up for more than 12 months after stoma reversal. Exclusion criteria: (1) patients as grade Ⅳ to Ⅴclassified by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA); (2) patients with multiple primary colorectal cancer; (3) patients with history of other malignant tumors in the past 5 years; (4) patients of emergency surgery; (5) pregnant or lactating women; (6) patients with history of severe mental illness; (7) patients with contraindication of MRI, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgical treatment. A total of 83 patients were enrolled, including 51 males and 28 females with median age of 59 years and mean BMI of (24.4±3.1) kg/m(2). EORTC QLQ-CR29, international erectile function index (IIEF), Wexner constipation score and low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score were applied to investigate the QoL of the patients before neoadjuvant therapy, 3 and 12 months after ostomy reversal, including rectal anal function and sexual function. M (P25, P75) was used for the scores of the scale. Results: (1) EORTC QLQ-CR29 score showed that before neoadjuvant therapy, before surgery, 3 months and 12 months after ostomy reversal, anxiety [64.4 (52, 0, 82.5), 75.3 (66.0, 89.5), 82.6 (78.5, 90.0), 83.6 (78.0, 91.0)] and concern about body image [76.8 (66.0, 92.0), 81.1 (76.5, 91.5), 85.5 (82.5, 94.0), 86.1 (82.0, 92.0)] were improved (all P<0.01); pelvic pain [5.4 (2.0, 8.0), 5, 0 (2.0, 7.8), 3.9 (1.0, 5.0), 3.0 (1.0, 5.0)], urinary incontinence [15.7 (7.0, 22.0), 11.1 (0, 17.5), 10.0 (0, 17.0), 9.9 (0, 16.0)], impotence [14.3 (4.2, 19.0), 12.2 (0, 16.8), 5.6 (0, 10.0), 5.2 (0.2, 8.0)], urinate [26.4 (13.0, 38.5), 13.9 (0, 20.0), 13.4 (2.5, 21.5), 13.2 (2.0, 20.0)] and mucous bloody stool [4.7 (3.0, 6.0), 2.6 (0, 5.0), 2.2 (0, 5.0), 1.9 (0, 4.0)] were improved as well (all P<0.01). The scores fluctuated in the improvement of male sexual function, abdominal pain, dry mouth, worry about body mass change, skin pain and dyspareunia, but the symptoms were significantly improved after ostomy reversal compared with before neoadjuvant therapy (all P<0.05). There were no significant changes in female sexual function, dysuria, dysgeusia and fecal incontinence after ostomy reversal compared with before neoadjuvant therapy (all P>0.05). (2) IIEF scale showed that all scores were similar before and after neoadjuvant therapy (all P>0.05). (3) Rectal and anal function scale revealed that before neoadjuvant therapy, before operation, 3 months and 12 months after stoma reversal, gas incontinence [3.1 (0, 4.0), 2.3 (0, 4.0), 1.8 (0, 4.0), 1.2 (0, 3.0)] and urgent defecation [7.2 (0, 11.0), 5.2 (0, 11.0), 2.9 (0, 9.0), 1.7 (0, 0)] were improved (all P<0.001). In terms of improving incomplete emptying sensation, the symptoms fluctuated, but the symptoms improved significantly after ostomy reversal compared with before neoadjuvant therapy (all P<0.05). While the symptoms of assistance with defecation [0 (0, 0), 0.7 (0, 1.0), 0.6 (0, 1.0), 0.7 (0, 1.0)] and defecation failure [0.2 (0, 0), 1.0 (0, 2.0), 0.8 (0, 1.5), 0.8 (0, 1.0)] showed a worsening trend (all P<0.001). Stratified analysis was performed on patients with different efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy to compare the changes in QoL before and after neoadjuvant therapy. Patients with less sensitive and more sensitive neoadjuvant therapy showed similar changes in function and symptoms. Patients with less sensitive therapy showed significant improvement in dysuria, urinary incontinence, skin pain and dyspareunia (all P<0.05), and the symptom of defecation frequency in more sensitive patients was significantly improved (P<0.05). Conclusions: For patients with LARC, neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy combined with radical LAR and protective stoma can improve QoL in many aspects. It is noted that patients show a worsening trend in the need for assistance with defecation and in defecation failure.

A prospective cohort study on the clinical value of pelvic peritoneal reconstruction in laparoscopic anterior resection for middle and low rectal cancer / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of pelvic peritoneal reconstruction and its effect on anal function in laparoscopy-assisted anterior resection of low and middle rectal cancer. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted. Consecutive patients with low and middle rectal cancer who underwent laparoscopy-assisted transabdominal anterior resection at Naval Military Medical University Changhai Hospital from February 2020 to February 2021 were enrolled. Inclusion criteria: (1) the distance from tumor to the anal verge ≤10 cm; (2) laparoscopy-assisted transabdominal anterior resection of rectal cancer; (3) complete clinical data; (4) rectal adenocarcinoma diagnosed by postoperative pathology. Exclusion criteria: (1) emergency surgery; (2) patients with a history of anal dysfunction or anal surgery; (3) preoperative diagnosis of distant (liver, lung) metastasis; (4) intestinal obstruction; (5) conversion to open surgery for various reasons. The pelvic floor was reconstructed using SXMD1B405 (Stratafix helical PGA-PCL, Ethicon). The first needle was sutured from the left anterior wall of the neorectum to the right. Insertion of the needle was continued to suture the root of the sigmoid mesentery while the Hemo-lok was used to fix the suture. The second needle was started from the beginning of the first needle, after 3-4 needles, a drainage tube was inserted through the left lower abdominal trocar to the presacral space. Then, the left peritoneal incision of the descending colon was sutured, after which Hemo-lok fixation was performed. The operative time, perioperative complications, postoperative Wexner anal function score and low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score were compared between the study group and the control group. Three to six months after the operation, pelvic MRI was performed to observe and compare the pelvic floor anatomical structure of the two groups. Results: A total of 230 patients were enrolled, including 58 who underwent pelvic floor peritoneum reconstruction as the study group and 172 who did not undergo pelvic floor peritoneum reconstruction as the control group. There were no significant differences in general data between the two groups (all P>0.05). The operation time of the study group was longer than that of control group [(177.5±33.0) minutes vs. (148.7±45.5) minutes, P<0.001]. There was no significant difference in the incidence of perioperative complications (including anastomotic leakage, anastomotic bleeding, postoperative pneumonia, urinary tract infection, deep vein thrombosis, and intestinal obstruction) between the two groups (all P>0.05). Eight cases had anastomotic leakage, of whom 2 cases (3.4%) in the study group were discharged after conservative treatment, 5 cases (2.9%) of other 6 cases (3.5%) in the control group were discharged after the secondary surgical treatment. The Wexner score and LARS score were 3.1±2.8 and 23.0 (16.0-28.0) in the study group, which were lower than those in the control group [4.7±3.4 and 27.0 (18.0-32.0)], and the differences were statistically significant (t=-3.018, P=0.003 and Z=-2.257, P=0.024). Severe LARS was 16.5% (7/45) in study group and 35.5% (50/141) in control group, and the difference was no significant differences (Z=4.373, P=0.373). Pelvic MRI examination 3 to 6 months after surgery showed that the incidence of intestinal accumulation in the pelvic floor was 9.1% (3/33) in study group and 46.4% (64/138) in control group (χ(2)=15.537, P<0.001). Conclusion: Pelvic peritoneal reconstruction using stratafix in laparoscopic anterior resection of middle and low rectal cancer is safe and feasible, which may reduce the probability of the secondary operation in patients with anastomotic leakage and significantly improve postoperative anal function.