Better Function With a Colonic J-Pouch or a Side-to-end Anastomosis?: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Compare the Complications, Functional Outcome, and Quality of Life in Patients With Low Rectal Cancer After a J-Pouch or a Side-to-end Anastomosis.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: We aimed to compare prospectively the complications and functional outcome of patients undergoing a J-Pouch (JP) or a side-to-end anastomosis (SE) for treatment of low rectal cancer at a 2-year time point after resection for rectal cancer. METHODS: A multicenter study was conducted on patients with low rectal cancer who were randomized to receive either a JP or SE and were followed for 24 months utilizing SF-12 and FACT-C surveys to evaluate the quality of life (QOL). Fecal incontinence was evaluated using the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI). Bowel function, complications, and their treatments were recorded. RESULTS: Two hundred thirty-eight patients (165 males) were randomized with 167 final eligible patients, 80 in the JP group and 87 in the SE group for evaluation. The mean age at surgery was 61 (range 29 to 82) years. The overall mean recurrence rate was 12 of 238, 5% and similar in both groups. COMPLICATIONS: Overall, 37 of 190 (19%) patients reported complications, 14 of these were Clavien Dindo Grade 3b and 2 were 3a: leak 3 (2 JP,1 SE), fistula 4 (1 JP, 3 SE), small bowel obstruction 4 (3JP, 1 SE), stricture 4 (3 SE, 1 SA), pouch necrosis 2 (JP), and wound infection 5 (2 JP, 3 SE). QOL scores using either instrument between the 2 groups at 12 and 24 months were similar (P > 0.05). Bowel movements, clustering, and FISI scores were similar. CONCLUSION: At time points of 1 and 2 years after a JP or a SE for low rectal cancer, QOL, functional outcome, and complications are comparable between the groups. Although choosing a particular procedure may depend on surgeon/patient choice or anatomical considerations at the time of surgery, SE functions similar to JP and may be chosen due to the ease of construction.

Definition of the Rectum: An International, Expert-based Delphi Consensus.

BACKGROUND: The wide global variation in the definition of the rectum has led to significant inconsistencies in trial recruitment, clinical management, and outcomes. Surgical technique and use of preoperative treatment for a cancer of the rectum and sigmoid colon are radically different and dependent on the local definitions employed by the clinical team. A consensus definition of the rectum is needed to standardise treatment. METHODS: The consensus was conducted using the Delphi technique with multidisciplinary colorectal experts from October, 2017 to April, 2018. RESULTS: Eleven different definitions for the rectum were used by participants in the consensus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was the most frequent modality used to define the rectum (67%), and the preferred modality for 72% of participants. The most agreed consensus landmark (56%) was "the sigmoid take-off," an anatomic, image-based definition of the junction of the mesorectum and mesocolon. In the second round, 81% of participants agreed that the sigmoid take-off as seen on computed tomography or MRI achieved consensus, and that it could be implemented in their institution. Also, 87% were satisfied with the sigmoid take-off as the consensus landmark. CONCLUSION: An international consensus definition for the rectum is the point of the sigmoid take-off as visualized on imaging. The sigmoid take-off can be identified as the mesocolon elongates as the ventral and horizontal course of the sigmoid on axial and sagittal views respectively on cross-sectional imaging. Routine application of this landmark during multidisciplinary team discussion for all patients will enable greater consistency in tumour localisation.

C-Reactive Protein Values After Colorectal Resection: Can We Discharge a Patient With a C-Reactive Protein Value >100? A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: C-reactive protein is a useful negative predictive test for the development of anastomotic leakage following colorectal surgery. Evolution of procedures (laparoscopy, enhanced recovery program, early discharge, complex redo surgery) may influence C-reactive protein values; however, this is poorly studied to date. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate C-reactive protein as an indicator of postoperative complication and as a predictor for discharge. DESIGN: This is retrospective study of a consecutive monocentric cohort. SETTINGS: All patients undergoing a colorectal resection with anastomosis (2014-2015) were included. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES: C-reactive protein, leukocytosis, type of resection, and postoperative course were the primary outcomes measured. RESULTS: A total of 522 patients were included. The majority had either a colorectal (n = 159, 31%) or coloanal anastomosis (n = 150, 29%). Overall morbidity was 29.3%. C-reactive protein was significantly higher among patient having intra-abdominal complications at an early stage (day 1-2) (164.6 vs 136.2; p = 0.0028) and late stage (day 3-4) (209.4 vs 132.1; p < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, early C-reactive protein was associated with BMI (coefficient, 4.9; 95% CI, 3.2-6.5; p < 0.0001) and open surgical procedures (coefficient, 43.1; 95% CI, 27-59.1; p < 0.0001), while late C-reactive protein value was influenced by BMI (coefficient, 4.8; 95% CI, 2.5-7.0; p = 0.0024) and associated extracolonic procedures (coefficient, 34.2; 95% CI, 2.7-65.6; p = 0.033). Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive values, and positive predictive values for intra-abdominal complication were 85.9%, 33.6%, 89.3%, and 27.1% for an early C-reactive protein <100 mg/L and 72.7%, 75.4%, 89.4%, and 49.2% for a late C-reactive protein <100 mg/L. Four hundred seven patients with an uneventful postoperative course were discharged at day 8 ± 6.4 with a mean discharge C-reactive protein of 83.5 ± 67.4. Thirty-eight patients (9.3%) were readmitted and had a significantly higher discharge C-reactive protein (138.6 ± 94.1 vs 77.8 ± 61.2, p = 0.0004). Readmission rate was 16.5% for patients with a discharge C-reactive protein >100 mg/L vs 6% with C-reactive protein <100 mg/L (p = 0.0008). For patients included in an enhanced recovery program (discharge at day 4 ± 2.4), the threshold should be higher because discharge is around day 3 or 4. With a C-reactive protein <140, readmission rate was 2% vs 19%, (p = 0.056). LIMITATIONS: This study includes retrospective data. CONCLUSION: C-reactive protein <100 mg/L is associated with a lower risk of intra-abdominal complication and readmission rates. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A749.

Metachronous colorectal cancer risk in Lynch syndrome patients-should the endoscopic surveillance be more intensive?

PURPOSE: Regular follow-up for patients with Lynch syndrome (LS) is vital due to the increased risk of colorectal (50-80%), endometrial (40-60%), and other cancers. However, there is an ongoing debate concerning the best interval between colonoscopies. Currently, no specific endoscopic follow-up has been decided for LS patients who already have an index colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of metachronous cancers (MC) after primary CRC in a LS population and to determinate if endoscopic surveillance should be more intensive. METHODS: A prospective cohort of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of hereditary CRC since 2009 was included. Patients with LS and a primary CRC were the cohort of choice. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-one patients were included with a median age of 44 years(16-70). At least one MC occurred in 39 patients (32.2%), with a median interval of 67 months (6-300) from index cancer. Fifteen (38.5%) developed two or more MCs during follow-up, with a median number of two (2-6) tumors occurring. Metachronous CRC were diagnosed after a median interval of 24 (6-57) months since last colonoscopy and were more commonly seen in MSH2 mutation carriers (58 vs. 35%, p = 0.001). After a median follow-up of 52.9 (3-72) months, no cancer-related deaths were recorded. CONCLUSION: Patients with LS have an increased risk of MC, especially CRCs. With a median time period of 24 months between colonoscopy and metachronous CRC, the interval between surveillance colonoscopies following primary CRC should not exceed 18 months, especially in patients with MSH2 mutation.

Postoperative Peritonitis After Digestive Tract Surgery: Surgical Management and Risk Factors for Morbidity and Mortality, a Cohort of 191 Patients.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative peritonitis (POP) following gastrointestinal surgery is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, with no clear management option proposed. The aim of this study was to report our surgical management of POP and identify pre- and perioperative risk factors for morbidity and mortality. METHODS: All patients with POP undergoing relaparotomy in our department between January 2004 and December 2013 were included. Pre- and perioperative data were analyzed to identify predictors of morbidity and mortality. RESULTS: A total of 191 patients required relaparotomy for POP, of which 16.8% required >1 reinterventions. The commonest cause of POP was anastomotic leakage (66.5%) followed by perforation (20.9%). POP was mostly treated by anastomotic takedown (51.8%), suture with derivative stoma (11.5%), enteral resection and stoma (12%), drainage of the leak (8.9%), stoma on perforation (8.4%), duodenal intubation (7.3%) or intubation of the leak (3.1%). The overall mortality rate was 14%, of which 40% died within the first 48 h. Major complications (Dindo-Clavien > 2) were seen in 47% of the cohort. Stoma formation occurred in 81.6% of patients following relaparotomy. Independent risk factors for mortality were: ASA > 2 (OR = 2.75, 95% CI = 1.07-7.62, p = 0.037), multiorgan failure (MOF) (OR = 5.22, 95% CI = 2.11-13.5, p = 0.0037), perioperative transfusion (OR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.05-7.47, p = 0.04) and upper GI origin (OR = 3.55, 95% CI = 1.32-9.56, p = 0.013). Independent risk factors for morbidity were: MOF (OR = 2.74, 95% CI = 1.26-6.19, p = 0.013), upper GI origin (OR = 3.74, 95% CI = 1.59-9.44, p = 0.0034) and delayed extubation (OR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.14-0.55, p = 0.0027). CONCLUSION: Mortality following POP remains a significant issue; however, it is decreasing due to effective and aggressive surgical intervention. Predictors of poor outcomes will help tailor management options.

Hartmann's reversal after colonic perforation or anastomosis leakage, is it the same procedure? A retrospective study of 150 patients.

PURPOSE: The high morbidity rates reported might influence surgeons' decisions of whether to perform Hartmann's reversal (HR). Our aim was to report the results of HR after "primary" Hartmann's procedure (HP) or in redo surgery for failed anastomosis. METHODS: All patients operated between 2007 and 2015 were included. Data and postoperative course were obtained from a review of medical records and databases. RESULTS: One hundred fifty patients (age 60, range (20-91) years, 62% male) were included. Eighty-six patients (57%) were ASA ≥ 2. HP was mostly performed for diverticulitis (29.3%) and anastomotic leakage (24%). HR was possible in 145(97%) patients including six with previous failed attempt. Overall morbidity was 22.7% including 11.7% severe complications (Dindo 3-4). Operative blood loss and Charlson comorbidity index were the only significant risk factor for postoperative pelvic complications (p = 0.03; p = 0.0002, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: In a colorectal tertiary center, HR was feasible in 97% with a low morbidity and a 3.4% anastomotic leakage rate.

Long-term Follow-up After Ileorectal Anastomosis for Ulcerative Colitis: A GETAID/GETAID Chirurgie Multicenter Retrospective Cohort of 343 Patients.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the cumulative incidence and the prognostic factors of ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) failure after colectomy for ulcerative colitis (UC). BACKGROUND: Although ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is recommended after colectomy for UC, IRA is still performed. METHODS: This was a multicenter retrospective cohort study, which included patients with IRA for UC performed between 1960 and 2014. IRA failure was defined as secondary proctectomy and/or rectal cancer occurrence. Uni- and multivariate survival analyses were performed using Cox-proportional hazards models. RESULTS: A total of 343 patients from 13 French centers were included. Median follow up after IRA was 10.6 years. IRA failure rates were estimated at 27.0% (95% confidence interval, CI, 22-32) and 40.0% (95% CI 33-47) at 10 and 20 years, respectively. Median survival time without IRA failure was estimated at 26.8 years. Two thirds of secondary proctectomies were performed for refractory proctitis, and 20% for rectal neoplasia. Univariate analysis identified factors associated with IRA failure: IRA performed after 2005, a longer duration of disease at the time of IRA, indication for colectomy and having received immunomodulative agents before IRA. In multivariate analysis, treatment with both immunosuppressant (IS) and anti-TNF before colectomy was independently associated with IRA failure (HR=2.9, 95% CI 1.2-7.1). Conversely, colectomy for severe acute colitis was associated with decreased risk of IRA failure (HR=0.6, 95% CI 0.4-0.97). DISCUSSION: Patients with UC have a high risk of IRA failure, particularly when colectomy is performed for refractory disease. However, IRA could be discussed after colectomy for severe acute colitis, or in patients naive to IS and anti-TNF.

Surveillance of Duodenal Polyposis in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: Should the Spigelman Score Be Modified?

BACKGROUND: Duodenal polyposis is a manifestation of adenomatous polyposis that predisposes to duodenal or ampullary adenocarcinoma. Duodenal polyposis is monitored by upper GI endoscopies and may require iterative resections and prophylactic radical surgical treatment when malignancy is threatening. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate severity scoring for surveillance and treatment in a large series of duodenal polyposis. DESIGN: From 1982 to 2014, every patient surveyed by upper GI endoscopies for duodenal polyposis was included. SETTINGS: The study was conducted at a single tertiary care center. PATIENTS: We performed 1912 upper GI endoscopies in 437 patients (median = 3; interquartile range, 2-6 endoscopies). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Conservative treatment was performed in 103 patients (159 endoscopic and 17 surgical resections), whereas radical surgical treatment (Whipple procedure or duodenectomy) was required in 52 (median age, 47.5 y; range, 43.0-57.3 y) because of high-grade dysplasia or unresectable lesions. RESULTS: Genes involved were APC (n = 274; 62.7%) and MUTYH (n = 21; 4.8%). First upper GI endoscopies (median age, 32 y; range, 21-44 y) revealed duodenal polyposis in 190 (43.5%). Rates of low-grade dysplasia, high-grade dysplasia, and duodenal or ampulary adenocarcinoma at 5 years were 65% (range, 61.7%-66.9%), 12.1% (range, 10.3%-13.9%), and 2.4% (range, 1.5%-3.3%), whereas 10-year rates were 75.8% (range, 73.1%-78.5%), 20.8% (range, 18.2%-23.4%), and 5.4% (range, 3.8%-7.0%). The rate of ampullary abnormalities rose during surveillance from 18.3% at the first upper GI endoscopies to 47.4% at the fourth. Predictive factors for high-grade dysplasia were age at first upper GI endoscopy, type and age of colorectal surgery, Spigelman score, presence of an ampullary abnormality, and number of endoscopic treatments. In multivariate analysis, only age at first upper GI endoscopy and presence of an ampullary abnormality were independent predictive factors. Histologic analysis after radical surgical treatment showed high-grade dysplasia in 30 patients and duodenal or ampulary adenocarcinoma in 11 (4 patients had lymph node involvement). LIMITATIONS: The study was limited by its retrospective analysis of a prospective database. CONCLUSIONS: More than 20% of patients developed high-grade dysplasia with duodenal polyposis after 10 years. Iterative endoscopic resections allowed extended control, but surgery remained necessary in 12% of the patients and happened too late in many cases; 20% of those operated had developed duodenal or ampulary adenocarcinoma, whereas 8% exhibited malignancy with lymph node involvement. The trigger for prophylactic surgery required a more accurate predictive score leading to closer endoscopic surveillance. Modifying the Spigelman score by accounting for ampullary abnormalities should be considered as a means to increase compliance with closer endoscopic follow-up in high-risk patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A430.

Comparing Inpatient Satisfaction Collected via a Web-Based Questionnaire Self-Completion and Through a Telephone Interview: An Ancillary Study of the SENTIPAT Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Assessing the satisfaction of patients about the health care they have received is relatively common nowadays. In France, the satisfaction questionnaire, I-Satis, is deployed in each institution admitting inpatients. Internet self-completion and telephone interview are the two modes of administration for collecting inpatient satisfaction that have never been compared in a multicenter randomized experiment involving a substantial number of patients. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to compare two modes of survey administration for collecting inpatient satisfaction: Internet self-completion and telephone interview. METHODS: In the multicenter SENTIPAT (acronym for the concept of sentinel patients, ie, patients who would voluntarily report their health evolution on a dedicated website) randomized controlled trial, patients who were discharged from the hospital to home and had an Internet connection at home were enrolled between February 2013 and September 2014. They were randomized to either self-complete a set of questionnaires using a dedicated website or to provide answers to the same questionnaires administered during a telephone interview. As recommended by French authorities, the analysis of I-Satis satisfaction questionnaire involved all inpatients with a length of stay (LOS), including at least two nights. Participation rates, questionnaire consistency (measured using Cronbach alpha coefficient), and satisfaction scores were compared in the two groups. RESULTS: A total of 1680 eligible patients were randomized to the Internet group (n=840) or the telephone group (n=840). The analysis of I-Satis concerned 392 and 389 patients fulfilling the minimum LOS required in the Internet and telephone group, respectively. There were 39.3% (154/392) and 88.4% (344/389) responders in the Internet and telephone group, respectively (P<.001), with similar baseline variables. Internal consistency of the global satisfaction score was higher (P=.03) in the Internet group (Cronbach alpha estimate=.89; 95% CI 0.86-0.91) than in the telephone group (Cronbach alpha estimate=.84; 95% CI 0.79-0.87). The mean global satisfaction score was lower (P=.03) in the Internet group (68.9; 95% CI 66.4-71.4) than in the telephone group (72.1; 95% CI 70.4-74.6), with a corresponding effect size of the difference at -0.253. CONCLUSIONS: The lower response rate issued from Internet administration should be balanced with a likely improved quality in satisfaction estimates, when compared with telephone administration, for which an interviewer effect cannot be excluded. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01769261 ; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01769261 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6ZDF5lA41).

Female sexual function and fertility after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis.

PURPOSE: A potential complication in women after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is sexual impairment and reduced fertility. The aim was to evaluate sexual function and fertility after IPAA. METHODS: All female patients who underwent an IPAA between 2004 and 2013 were retrospectively included. Sexual function, fertility, and continence were explored by the female sexual function index (FSFI), telephonic interview, and Wexner's score. RESULTS: Among 127 women included, 93 responded to the questionnaires (73.2%). Seventy five were sexually active, and 48 (64%) had normal sexual function (FSFI > 26). In univariate analysis, there was a significant relationship between ulcerative colitis (p = 0.0161), age > 40 years (p = 0.01311), number of bowel movements (p = 0.0238), nocturnal pouch activity (p = 0.0094), use of loperamide (p = 0.0283), and existence of sexual dysfunction. After multivariate analysis, age and nocturnal pouch activity were associated with a worse sexual function (p = 0.0235, OR = 3.3 (1.2-9.9) and p = 0.0094, OR = 4.1 (1.4-13.5)). Of 16 patients who wished to have children, 10 (63%) became pregnant without recourse to in vitro fertilization, of whom 3 had two or more pregnancies. In total, there were 13 children born after IPAA. The mean time between the first pregnancy and surgery was 24.8 ± 22 months. At 12 and 24 months after cessation of contraception, 57 and 67% had at least one pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: While sexual function is impaired in a limited number of patients, the impact of surgery can be regarded as modest. Age and nocturnal pouch activity were some independent factors of worse sexual function. The risk of infertility should not preclude consideration of IPAA as a treatment option.

Management of postoperative bladder emptying after proctectomy in men for rectal cancer. A retrospective study of 190 consecutive patients.

PURPOSE: Evaluation of urinary drainage after rectal resection and identification of criteria associated with postoperative urinary dysfunction (UD). UD remains a clinical problem for up to two thirds of patients after rectal resection. Currently, there are no guidelines concerning duration or type of drainage. METHODS: One hundred ninety consecutive rectal resections (abdomino-perineal resection (APR = 47), mechanical coloanal anastomosis (MechCAA = 48), manual coloanal anastomosis (ManCAA = 47), colorectal anastomosis (CRA = 48)) in male patients were included. In patients with a transurethral catheterization (TUC), the drainage was removed at day 5. Patients with a suprapubic catheterization (SPC) underwent drainage removal according to the results of a clamping test at day 5. UD was defined as drainage removal after day 6 and/or acute urinary retention (AUR). RESULTS: Drainage types were SPC (n = 136, 72%) and TUC (n = 54, 28%). SPC was used more frequently after total mesorectal excision (TME) (APR, ManCAA, MechCAA) (83-92%). Complications rates of SPC and TUC were 20 and 9%. The clamping test was positive for 61 patients (48%), and SPC was removed before/on POD6 without any episode of AUR. After TUC removal, two patients (4%) had AUR. Seventy-two (38%) patients had UD: 11 (6%) were discharged with an indwelling catheter, and in 61 (32%), the catheter was removed after day6. Three independent factors were associated with UD: diabetes (OR = 2.9 (1.2-7.7)), urological history (OR = 2.9 (1.2-7.6)), and TME (OR = 5.2 (2.3-13.5)). CONCLUSION: The UD rate after surgery for rectal cancer was 38%. The clamping test is accurate to prevent AUR after SPC removal. The three risk factors may serve to select good candidates for early catheter removal.

Restorative Proctocolectomy and Ileal Pouch-anal Anastomosis.

OBJECTIVES: To assess mortality after restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) and determine the influencing factors with a specific focus on institutional caseload and surgical approach in France. BACKGROUND: RPC is an uncommonly performed and demanding procedure; case volume may exert a significant influence on outcome. METHODS: Data of all patients who underwent RPC in France between 2009 and 2012, including demographics, diagnosis, procedures, mode of admission, discharge, and hospital type were collected. RESULTS: One thousand one hundred sixty-six RPCs were performed in 237 centers (mean: 1.65 procedure/year/center). Rate of laparoscopic procedures was 47.1% (n = 549). Mortality reached 1.5% (n = 17). Independent factors for mortality were ageless than 45 years (odds ratio, OR = 3.9) and surgery in a center performing less than 3 RPC per year (OR = 3.2). Centers performing less than 3 RPC per year represented 89% of all centers, accounted for 37% (n = 431) of all patients and represented 70.6% of all deaths (n = 12). Underlying pathology exerted a significant effect on mortality; mortality rate after "classical" indications (polyposis and inflammatory bowel disease) was 0.7% (8/1078) and was 16.7% (9/54) for "nonclassical" indications (peritonitis, carcinomatosis, and so on) (P < 0.0001). Nonclassical diagnoses were observed more frequently in centers performing less than 3 RPC per year [40/412 (7.3%) vs 24/720 (3.3%), P = 0.0027]. A laparoscopic approach was associated with a low mortality rate on univariate analysis (0.7% vs 1.2%, P = 0.05), a shorter hospital stay (15.8 ±â€Š0.6 vs 17.8 ±â€Š0.55, P = 0.0053) and more frequently performed in experienced centers ≥3 RPC/year (50.8% vs 40.7%, P = 0.0009). CONCLUSIONS: Mortality after RPC in centers performing 3 or less RPC per year was significantly higher, and accounted for more than half of all deaths. In France, consolidating all RPCs to higher volume centers may lead to better outcomes.

Management of Acute Appendicitis in Ambulatory Surgery: Is It Possible? How to Select Patients?

OBJECTIVE: Establish a protocol of management of acute appendicitis (AA) in ambulatory surgery (AmbSurg) on the basis of preoperative criteria. BACKGROUND: Ambulatory laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) for AA has not been yet reported. METHODS: All patients who underwent LA between 2010 and 2012 were reviewed. A multivariate analysis was performed to create a predictive score of discharge within the first 24 hours. The score was prospectively used on every AA from January 1, 2013, to December 15, 2013. All patients with 5 or 4 points were proposed for AmbSurg. RESULTS: A total of 468 patients were included retrospectively, 181(38.7%) were discharged within the first 24 hours. In multivariate analysis, predictive factors of early discharge were body mass index less than 28 kg/m, white cell count less than 15,000/mL, C-reactive protein less than 30 mg/L, no radiological signs of perforation, and appendix diameter of 10 mm or smaller. Rate of discharge at day 1 was 72%, 45%, 39%, 21%, 0%, and 0% according to the score 5 to 0 (P < 0.0001). Prospectively, 184 patients had AA and 103 (56%) had a score of 4 or 5. Thirty-eight underwent ambulatory LA [16 (42%) patients were postponed to the next day and went back home]. All patients were directly discharged from recovery room, except 1 (2.6%) patient, after a mean hospital stay of 8.4 hours ± 6.9 hours. A total of 146 patients underwent LA in conventional surgery and 58% were discharged at day 1. Rate of early discharge was significantly associated with the score ranging from 0% to 92% for a score 0 or 5, validating prospectively the score (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: We establish a simple validated predictive score of early discharge. When applied to AmbSurg, it allowed us to select patients eligible with a success rate of 97%.

R1 rectal resection: look up and don't look down.

BACKGROUND: After rectal resection for adenocarcinoma, pathological examination may reveal invasion of the distal margin (DM) and/or a circumferential resection margin of the tumor (CRM-T) or of involved nodes (CRM-N) less than or equal to 1 mm. Such findings transform a planned R0 resection to R1. AIM: : The aim was to analyze the impact of an R1 resection on prognosis, recurrence rate, and choice of adjuvant treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: All R1 resections observed between 2006 and 2011 were retrospectively collected. Patients were matched with 80 patients with R0 resections according to age, body mass index, gender, neoadjuvant treatment, type of resection, ypT/pT stages, and N stage. RESULTS: Among 472 rectal resections performed, 40 (8.5%) were R1 (CRM-T=34; CRM-N=11; invaded DM=4). Among the 4 patients with invaded DM, 3 underwent salvage abdominoperineal resection. Of the 12 patients who had not received neoadjuvant treatment, 5 received adjuvant radiotherapy. Mean follow-up was 49.3±29.3 months for the 120 patients; 5-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were 72% and 56%. Comparison between R0 and R1 resections showed a trend toward worse OS in R1 resections: 62% versus 79% (P=0.0954), a significantly worse DFS: 41% versus 65% (P=0.0267). Local recurrence rates were similar: 12% versus 13% (P=0.9177), whereas distant recurrence was significantly more frequent after R1 resection: 56% versus 26% (P=0.0040). CONCLUSIONS: R1 resection is associated with a worse prognosis, but local recurrence rate does not differ significantly from matched R0 resections. The difference was observed for distant recurrences, especially lung, favoring the use of chemotherapy and close surveillance of the thorax.

Overexpression of microRNAs-155 and 21 targeting mismatch repair proteins in inflammatory bowel diseases.

Microsatellite instability (MSI) due to mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency is reported in 5-10% of colorectal cancers (CRCs) complicating inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). The molecular mechanisms underlying MMR deficiency may be different in IBD CRCs, and in sporadic and hereditary MSI tumors. Here, we hypothesize that overexpression of miR-155 and miR-21, two inflammation-related microRNAs that target core MMR proteins, may constitute a pre-neoplastic event for the development of MSI IBD CRCs. We studied miR-155 and miR-21 expression using real-time quantitative PCR in MSI (n = 10) and microsatellite stable (n = 10) IBD CRCs, and in MSI (n = 32) and microsatellite stable (n = 30) non-IBD CRCs. We also screened colonic samples from IBD patients without cancer (n = 18) and used healthy colonic mucosa as controls (n = 20). MiR-155 and miR-21 appeared significantly overexpressed not only in the colonic mucosa of IBD subjects without CRC but also in neoplastic tissues of IBD patients compared with non-IBD controls (P < 0.001). Importantly, in patients with IBD CRCs, miR-155 and miR-21 overexpression extended to the distant non-neoplastic mucosa (P < 0.001). Ratios of expressions in tumors versus matched distant mucosa revealed a nearly significant association between miR-155 overexpression and MSI in IBDs (P = 0.057). These results show a strong deregulation of both MMR-targeting microRNAs in IBD subjects with or without cancer. MiR-155 overexpression being particularly associated to MSI IBD CRCs and extending to distant non-neoplastic mucosa, strongly suggests that a pre-neoplastic miR-155 field defect may promote MSI-driven transformation of the colonic mucosa. The detection and monitoring of miR-155 field defect may, therefore, have implications for the prevention and treatment of MSI IBD CRCs.

Waist circumference and waist/hip ratio are better predictive risk factors for mortality and morbidity after colorectal surgery than body mass index and body surface area.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether body fat distribution, measured by waist circumference (WC) and waist/hip ratio (WHR), is a better predictor of mortality and morbidity after colorectal surgery than body mass index (BMI) or body surface area (BSA). BACKGROUND: Obesity measured by BMI is not a consistent risk factor for postoperative mortality and morbidity after abdominal surgery. Studies in metabolic and cardiovascular diseases have shown WC and WHR to be better outcome predictors than BMI. METHODS: A prospective multicenter international study was conducted among patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery. The WHR, BMI, and BSA were derived from body weight, height, and waist and hip circumferences measured preoperatively. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for postoperative outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 1349 patients (754 men) from 38 centers in 11 countries were included. Increasing WHR significantly increased the risk of conversion [odds ratio (OR) = 15.7, relative risk (RR) = 4.1], intraoperative complications (OR = 11.0, RR = 3.2), postoperative surgical complications (OR = 7.7, RR = 2.0), medical complications (OR = 13.2, RR = 2.5), anastomotic leak (OR = 13.7, RR = 3.3), reoperations (OR = 13.3, RR = 2.9), and death (OR = 653.1, RR = 21.8). Both BMI (OR = 39.5, RR = 1.1) and BSA (OR = 4.9, RR = 3.1) were associated with an increased risk of abdominal wound complication. In multivariate analysis, the WHR predicted intraoperative complications, conversion, medical complications, and reinterventions, whereas BMI was a risk factor only for abdominal wall complications; BSA did not reach significance for any outcome. CONCLUSIONS: The WHR is predictive of adverse events after elective colorectal surgery. It should be used in routine clinical practice and in future risk-estimating systems.

What is the incidence of metastatic lymph node involvement after significant pathologic response of primary tumor following neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer?

BACKGROUND: In locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients, major response to neoadjuvant radiotherapy (NR) has been associated with favorable long-term outcomes. Positive pathologic nodal status was recently proven to be associated with poor prognosis even after total regression of primary tumor (ypT0). The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of lymph node (LN) involvement in patients with complete (ypT0) or major (TRG1: very few viable tumor cells) response. METHODS: Included were patients with complete or major response after radiotherapy followed by surgery and histological examination of the whole specimen. RESULTS: From 1996 to 2010, 245 patients with LARC were treated by NR. We collected clinical data for 53 patients (21.6 %) with ypT0 (n = 26, 49 %) or TRG1 (n = 27, 51 %) response. Sphincter-preserving surgery was performed in 40 patients (75 %). Overall, nine patients (16.9 %) presented LN involvement: 2 (7.7 %) in the ypT0 group and 7 (25.9 %) in the TRG1 group (NS). Patients with ypT3 tumors had significantly more invaded LN than patients with ypT1-T2 tumors (6 of 13 [46 %] vs 1 of 14 [7 %], p = .032). After median follow-up of 30 months (range, 1-160 months), 5-year disease-free and overall survivals were 88.2 and 89.0 %, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: There was a clear cutoff between patients with ypT0-T2 (3 of 40, 7.5 %) and ypT3 (6 of 13, 46 %) concerning the incidence of metastatic LN in patients achieving pathologic complete or major response after NR. In patients with good clinical response, local full-thickness resection of the residual tumor could be a first step, followed by standard rectal resection in cases of ypT3.

A multicentric randomized controlled trial on the impact of lengthening the interval between neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy and surgery on complete pathological response in rectal cancer (GRECCAR-6 trial): rationale and design.

BACKGROUND: Neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy (RCT) is now part of the armamentarium of cancer of the lower and middle rectum. It is recommended in current clinical practice prior to surgical excision if the lesion is classified T3/T4 or N+. Histological complete response, defined by the absence of persistent tumor cell invasion and lymph node (ypT0N0) after pathological examination of surgical specimen has been shown to be an independent prognostic factor of overall survival and disease-free survival. Surgical excision is usually performed between 6 and 8 weeks after completion of CRT and pathological complete response rate ranges around 12%. In retrospective studies, a lengthening of the interval after RCT beyond 10 weeks was found as an independent factor increasing the rate of pathological complete response (between 26% and 31%), with a longer disease-free survival and without increasing the operative morbidity. The aim of the present study is to evaluate in 264 patients the rate of pathological complete response rate of rectal cancer after RCT by lengthening the time between RCT and surgery. METHODS/DESIGN: The current study is a multicenter randomized trial in two parallel groups comparing 7 and 11 weeks of delay between the end of RCT and cancer surgery of rectal tumors. At the end of the RCT, surgery is planified and randomization is performed after patient's written consent for participation. The histological complete response (ypT0N0) will be determined with analysis of the complete residual tumor and double reading by two pathologists blinded of the group of inclusion. Patients will be followed in clinics for 5 years after surgery. Participation in this trial does not change patient's management in terms of treatment, investigations or visits. Secondary endpoints will include overall and disease free survival, rate of sphincter conservation and quality of mesorectal excision. The number of patients needed is 264. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrial.gov: NCT01648894.

Prognostic impact of positive surgical margins after resection of colorectal cancer liver metastases: reappraisal in the era of modern chemotherapy.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the present study was to assess the prognostic impact of positive surgical margins (R1) after liver resection (LR) of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) in the era of modern chemotherapy regimens. R1 resection is a negative prognostic factor after LR of CRLM. The significance of R1 margins in the era of effective chemotherapy is unknown. METHODS: From January 2000 to December 2009, 215 patients (177 men: 62 %; median age 60 years; range 30-84 years) underwent LR of CRLM. The LR was considered R1 (margin <1 mm) in 49 patients (23 %) and R0 in 166 patients (77 %). Overall, 108 (50 %) patients received preoperative chemotherapy and 156 (72 %) patients received postoperative chemotherapy. RESULTS: With a median follow-up of 36 months (range 1-141 months), the 5-year overall survival (OS) rate (47 vs 40 %; p = 0.05) and the disease-free survival (DFS) rate (36 vs 23 %; p = 0.006) were significantly lower in the R1 group. Recurrence developed in 152 patients (71 %) and the rate of recurrence was significantly higher (84 vs 67 %; p = 0.02) in the R1 group. On multivariate analysis, N+ status of the colorectal primary tumor (p = 0.008), presence of radiologically occult disease (p = 0.04), and R1 resection (p = 0.03) were independent adverse predictors of OS. The N+ status of the primary tumor (p = 0.003) and R1 resection (p = 0.02) were independent adverse predictors of DFS. On multivariate analysis use of postoperative chemotherapy was the only independent predictor of improved DFS (p = 0.02) in the R1 group. CONCLUSIONS: A positive resection margin remains a significant poor prognostic factor after LR of CRLM in the era of modern chemotherapy. Postoperative chemotherapy reduces recurrence rates after R1 resection of CRLM.