Evaluation of the blood flow in reconstructed gastric tube and its relation to anastomosis leakage.

OBJECTIVES: Anastomotic leakage in esophageal cancer surgery may be reduced by evaluating the blood flow to the reconstructed organ, but quantitative evaluation of arterial and venous blood flow is difficult. This study aimed to quantitatively assess blood flow using a new technique, as well as determine the relationship between the blood flow in the gastric tube and anastomotic leakage using near-infrared spectroscopy. METHODS: This single-center, observational study included 50 patients aged 51-82 years who underwent radical esophagectomy with gastric tube reconstruction for esophageal cancer between June 2022 and January 2023. Regional tissue oxygen saturation was measured at the antrum (point X), the anastomotic point (point Z), and the midpoint between points X and Z (point Y) before and after gastric tube formation. These three points of oxygen saturation were investigated in relation to anastomotic leakage. RESULTS: When comparing the presence of leakage to its absence, regional tissue oxygen saturation at points X and Z after gastric tube formation was significantly lower (X: p = 0.03, Z: p = 0.02), with the decreasing rate significantly higher at point Z (p = 0.01). There was no significant difference in the decreasing rate of regional tissue oxygen saturation between points X and Y (X: p = 0.052, Y: p = 0.83). CONCLUSION: Regional tissue oxygen saturation levels may be useful for measuring blood flow and could be a predictor of anastomotic leakage.

Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy for Left-Sided Colorectal Anastomotic Leak Without Fecal Diversion.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic vacuum therapy for the treatment of rectal anastomotic leak has been shown to be effective and safe. The majority of patients are treated after fecal diversion to avoid further septic complications. OBJECTIVE: To report the effectiveness of endoscopic vacuum therapy for rectal anastomotic leak without diversion compared to secondary stoma creation. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort analysis. SETTINGS: University hospital, single-center. PATIENTS: Patients undergoing sigmoid or rectal resection without fecal diversion during primary surgery who were treated with endoscopic vacuum therapy for clinically relevant anastomotic leak. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Treatment success (sepsis control, granulation and closure of the leak cavity, and no subsequent interventional or surgical procedure required); treatment duration; complications associated with endoscopic vacuum therapy; outpatient treatment; and restoration of intestinal continuity in diverted patients. RESULTS: Fifty-seven patients were included. In 20 patients (35%), endoscopic vacuum therapy was initiated without secondary diversion since the leak was extraperitoneal, and the sponge could be placed into the leak cavity with an adequate seal toward the lumen. In 18 patients (90%), this approach was successful. None of these patients required subsequent diversion in the further course of their disease. In two patients, secondary diversion was necessary due to treatment failure. Balloon dilatation for luminal stenosis was required in two patients. When comparing patient and treatment characteristics of patients with and without a stoma, including treatment success and duration, no significant differences were found. Restoration of intestinal continuity was achieved in 69% of diverted patients. LIMITATIONS: Unrandomized, retrospective study design; confounding factors of treatment assignment; low patient numbers and short follow-up of diverted patients; and low statistical power. CONCLUSION: In this single-institution study, endoscopic vacuum therapy for rectal anastomotic leak was successful in 90% of patients without diversion with regard to sepsis control, granulation of the leak cavity, avoidance of surgery, and long-term stoma-free survival. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B737.TERAPIA ENDOSCÓPICA POR ASPIRACIÓN AL VACÍO EN CASOS DE FUGA ANASTOMÓTICA RECTO-CÓLICA IZQUIERDA SIN OSTOMÍA DE PROTECCIÓNANTECEDENTES:Se ha demostrado que la terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío en casos de fuga anastomótica recto-cólica izquierda en el tratamiento de la fuga anastomótica rectal es eficaz y segura. La mayoría de los casos beneficiaron del tratamiento después de la confeción de un ostomía de protección para evitar más complicaciones sépticas.OBJETIVO:Demostrar la efectividad de la terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío en casos de fuga anastomótica recto-cólica izquierda sin ostomía de protección comparada con los casos que tuvieron la creación de una ostomía secundaria.DISEÑO:Análisis de cohortes de tipo retrospectivo.AJUSTE:Hospital universitario, unicéntrico.PACIENTES:Aquellos pacientes sometidos a una resección sigmoidea o rectal sin ostomía de protección durante una cirugía primaria, y que fueron tratados con terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío en caso de fuga anastomótica clínicamente relevante.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Tratamiento exitoso (control de la sepsis, granulación y cierre de la cavidad de la fuga, sin requerir procedimiento quirúrgico o intervención ulteterior); duración del tratamiento; complicaciones asociadas con la terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío; tratamiento ambulatorio; restablecimiento de la continuidad intestinal en los pacientes portadores de ostomía.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron 57 pacientes. En 20 pacientes (35%), se inició la terapia endoscópica por aspiración al vacío sin derivación secundaria, ya que la fuga era extraperitoneal y la esponja podía colocarse en la cavidad de la fuga con un sellado adecuado hacia el lumen. En 18 pacientes (90%), este enfoque fue exitoso. Ninguno de estos pacientes requirió una derivación posterior durante la evolución de la enfermedad. En dos pacientes, fue necesaria una derivación secundaria debido al fracaso del tratamiento. Se requirió dilatación con balón por estenosis luminal en dos pacientes. Al comparar las características de los pacientes y del tratamiento con y sin ostomía, incluido el éxito y la duración del tratamiento, no se encontraron diferencias significativas. El restablecimiento de la continuidad intestinal se logró en el 69% de los pacientes derivados.LIMITACIONES:Diseño de estudio retrospectivo no aleatorio; factores de confusión en la asignación del tratamiento; escaso número de pacientes y seguimiento a corto plazo de los pacientes ostomizados; bajo poder estadístico.CONCLUSIÓN:En este estudio de una sola institución, la terapia al vacío por vía endoscópica en casos de fuga anastomótica rectal fue exitosa en el 90% de los pacientes sin derivación con respecto al control de la sepsis, granulación de la cavidad de la fuga, como se evitó la cirugía y la sobrevida sin ostomía a largo plazo. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B737. (Traducción-Dr. Xavier Delgadillo).

Intestinal mucosa staple line integrity and anastomotic leak pressure after healing in a porcine model.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate both the intestinal mucosa staple line integrity and anastomotic leak pressure after healing in a porcine survival model. METHODS: We used two suture models using two different size staples (incomplete mucosal closure model: group G [staple height 0.75 mm], complete mucosal closure model: group B [staple height 1.5 mm]) in the porcine ileum. Five staple lines were created in each group made in the ileum for each model, and the staple sites harvested on days 0, 2, and 7. The leak pressure at the staple site was measured at each time point. RESULTS: On day 0, the leak pressure for group G (79.5 mmHg) was significantly lower than that for group B (182.3 mmHg) (p < 0.01). On days 2 and 7, there was no significant difference between groups G and B (171 mmHg and 175.5 mmHg on day 2, 175.5 mmHg and 175.5 mmHg on day 7, p > 0.05). The histological findings in both groups showed similar healing at postoperative days 2 and 7. CONCLUSION: The integrity of the mucosal staple lines was associated with the postoperative leak pressure on day 0. However, there was no association with the leak pressure at two days or more postoperatively in a porcine model.

Long-Term Radiologic Evaluation of Microaspirations among Patients after Esophagectomy.

OBJECTIVES: Aspirations are common after esophagectomy. Data are lacking regarding its long-term radiological manifestations. The purpose of this study is to determine the incidence and radiological patterns of aspirations among long-term survivors and evaluate their clinical significance. METHODS: The records of all patients who underwent esophagectomy between October 2003 and December 2011 and survived more than 3 years were reviewed. Preoperative, first routine postoperative, and latest chest computed tomography (CT)scans were reviewed. Imaging studies were reviewed for radiological signs suspicious of aspirations, conduit location, anastomotic site, and maximal intrathoracic diameter. Data regarding patients' complaints during clinic visits were also collected. RESULTS: A total of 578 patients underwent esophagectomy during the study period. One-hundred twenty patients met the inclusion criteria. Median follow-up was 83.5 months. Cervical and intrathoracic anastomoses were performed in 103 and 17 patients, respectively. A higher rate of CT findings was found in postoperative imaging (n = 51 [42.5%] vs. n = 13 [10.8%] respectively, p < 0.05). Most of these were found in the lower lobes (61%). A higher rate of lesions was found among patients in whom the conduit was bulging to the right hemithorax compared with totally mediastinal or completely in the right hemithorax (54.5 vs. 35.2% and 34.6%, respectively, p < 0.05). No correlation was found with conduit diameter or anastomotic site. These lesions were more prevalent among patients who complained of reflux or cough during meals (NS). CONCLUSIONS: A significantly higher rate of new CT findings was found in postoperative imaging of this post-esophagectomy cohort, suggesting a high incidence of aspirations. The locations of the conduit, rather than anastomosis site, seem to play a role in the development of these findings. Further research is needed to evaluate the clinical significance of these findings.

Laser Doppler Flowmetry and Visible Light Spectroscopy of the Gastric Tube During Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Ischemia is considered as the main reason for thoracic gastroesophageal anastomotic leaks after esophagectomy. Microcirculatory monitoring with laser Doppler flowmetry and visible light spectroscopy may provide valuable intraoperative real-time information about the gastric tube's tissue perfusion and circulation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Ten patients with esophageal cancer operated with minimally invasive esophagectomy participated in this single-center, prospective, observational pilot study. A single probe with laser Doppler flowmetry and visible light spectroscopy was used to perform transserosal microcirculation assessment of the gastric tube at predefined anatomical sites during different operation phases. Group comparison and changes were evaluated using the paired sample t-test. RESULTS: A reduction in StO2 was found at all measuring sites after the gastric tube formation compared with the baseline measurements. The mean StO2 reduction from baseline to gastric tube formation and after anastomosis was 16% (range 4%-28%) and 42% (range, 35%-52%), respectively. A statistically significant increase in the rHb concentration, representing venous congestion, was detected at the most cranial part of the gastric tube (P = 0.04). Three patients developed anastomotic leaks. CONCLUSION: Intraoperative real-time laser Doppler flowmetry and visible light spectroscopy are feasible and may provide insight to microcirculatory changes in the gastric tube and at the anastomotic site. Patients with anastomotic leaks seem to have critical local tissue StO2 reduction and venous congestion that should be further evaluated in studies with larger sample sizes.

Postoperative hemodynamic changes for predicting anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy in patients with esophageal cancer using the FloTrac system.

Background : Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy is significantly associated with more severe complications, such as sepsis and mortality. Early prediction for anastomotic leakage is usually difficult and needs to be treated rapidly. In the current study, we investigated the correlation between hemodynamic and several complications after esophagectomy in patients with esophageal cancer, using the FloTrac system. Materials and Methods : Between April 2013 and December 2014, 39 patients with a mean age of 66.6 ±â€…8.9 years underwent postoperative supervision using the FloTrac sensor / Vigileo monitoring system after curative surgery for esophageal cancer. We retrospectively evaluated the association between the number of aberrant cardiac index (CI) along with stroke volume variability (SVV) values and clinicopathological parameters of postoperative complications in this report. Results : There were significant positive correlations between the number of aberrant values of CI along with SVV and depth of invasion during pathological stage. Concerning major postoperative complications, there was a significant positive correlation between the number of aberrant values of CI and anastomotic leakage. Discussion: The hemodynamic change by employing the FloTrac system could predicts the complication of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy. Adequate management of hemodynamic stability by utilizing it will reduce the complications of anastomotic leakage. J. Med. Invest. 67 : 240-245, August, 2020.

Influence of oversewing the transverse staple line during functional end-to-end stapled intestinal anastomoses in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of oversewing the transverse staple line after functional end-to-end stapled intestinal anastomoses (FEESA) on canine jejunal leakage pressures. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental, ex vivo, randomized study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Jejunal segments from three adult canine cadavers. METHODS: Jejunal segments were harvested within 2 hours of euthanasia and anastomosed (24 jejunal segments per group, consisting of two segments per construct with n = 12/ group). Constructs were then randomly assigned to receive FEESA alone, FEESA + Cushing oversew, or FEESA + simple-continuous oversew of the transverse staple line with 3-0 polydioxanone. Results for initial leakage pressure (ILP) and maximal leakage pressure (MLP) and initial leakage location (LL) were compared between groups. RESULTS: Mean ILP was 1.8-fold higher for FEESA + Cushing oversew (62.4 ± 7.8 mm Hg) compared with FEESA alone and FEESA + simple-continuous oversew (P < .001). Mean MLP were higher for both oversewn techniques compared with FEESA alone (P < .001). Oversewing the transverse staple line with either pattern increased mean MLP by 1.4-fold compared with FEESA alone. Leakage occurred at the level of the transverse staple line in nonoversewn constructs (P < .001). CONCLUSION: Oversewing the transverse staple line after FEESA increased MLP and decreased the occurrence of leakage at this location. Oversewing with a Cushing pattern increased ILP compared with oversew with a simple-continuous pattern. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Our results provide evidence to support oversewing the transverse staple line after FEESA. Doing so may reduce the occurrence of postoperative dehiscence. These findings warrant additional focused investigation in vivo through a prospective randomized clinical trial.

The Impact of Anastomotic Leakage on Long-term Function After Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer.

BACKGROUND: It is still not clear whether anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer affects long-term functional outcome. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate how anastomotic leakage following anterior resection for rectal cancer influences defecatory, urinary, and sexual function. DESIGN: In this retrospective population-based cohort study, patients were identified through the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry, which was also used for information on the exposure variable anastomotic leakage and covariates. SETTINGS: A nationwide register was used for including patients. PATIENTS: All patients undergoing anterior resection for rectal cancer in Sweden from April 2011 to June 2013 were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Outcome was any defecatory, sexual, or urinary dysfunction, assessed 2 years after surgery by a postal questionnaire. The association between anastomotic leakage and function was assessed in multivariable logistic and linear regression models, with adjustment for confounding. RESULTS: Response rate was 82%, resulting in 1180 included patients. Anastomotic leakage occurred in 7.5%. A permanent stoma was more common among patients with leakage (44% vs 9%; p < 0.001). Patients with leakage had an increased risk of aid use for fecal incontinence (OR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.20-4.30) and reduced sexual activity (90% vs 82%; p = 0.003), whereas the risk of urinary incontinence was decreased (OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.31-0.90). A sensitivity analysis assuming that a permanent stoma was created because of anorectal dysfunction strengthened the negative impact of leakage on defecatory dysfunction. LIMITATIONS: Limitations include the use of a questionnaire that had not been previously validated, underreporting of anastomotic leakage in the register, and small patient numbers in the analysis of sexual symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Anastomotic leakage was found to statistically significantly increase the risk of aid use due to fecal incontinence and reduced sexual activity, although the impact on defecatory dysfunction might be underestimated, because permanent stomas are sometimes fashioned because of anorectal dysfunction. Further research is warranted, especially regarding urogenital function. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B157. EL IMPACTO DE LA FUGA ANASTOMÓTICA EN LA FUNCIÓN A LARGO PLAZO DESPUÉS DE LA RESECCIÓN ANTERIOR POR CÁNCER RECTAL: Todavía no está claro si la fuga anastomótica después de la resección anterior por cáncer rectal afecta el resultado funcional a largo plazo.Evaluar cómo la fuga anastomótica después de la resección anterior para el cáncer rectal influye en la función defecatoria, urinaria y sexual.En este estudio de cohorte retrospectivo basado en la población, los pacientes fueron identificados a través del Registro Sueco de cáncer colorrectal, que también se utilizó para obtener información sobre la variable de exposición de fuga anastomótica y las covariables.Se utilizó un registro nacional para incluir pacientes.Se incluyeron todos los pacientes sometidos a resección anterior por cáncer de recto en Suecia desde abril de 2011 hasta junio de 2013.El resultado fue cualquier disfunción defecatoria, sexual o urinaria, evaluada dos años después de la cirugía mediante un cuestionario postal. La asociación entre la fuga anastomótica y la función se evaluó en modelos logísticos multivariables y de regresión lineal, con ajuste por confusión.La tasa de respuesta fue del 82%, lo que resultó en 1180 pacientes incluidos. La fuga anastomótica ocurrió en el 7,5%. Un estoma permanente fue más común entre los pacientes con fugas (44% vs. 9%; p <0.001). Los pacientes con fugas tenían un mayor riesgo de uso de ayuda para la incontinencia fecal (OR 2.27; IC 95% 1.20-4.30) y una menor actividad sexual (90% vs. 82%; p = 0.003), mientras que el riesgo de incontinencia urinaria disminuyó (OR 0.53; IC 95% 0.31-0.90). Un análisis de sensibilidad que supone que se creaba un estoma permanente debido a una disfunción anorrectal fortaleció el impacto negativo de la fuga en la disfunción defecatoria.Las limitaciones incluyen el cuestionario utilizado que no ha sido validado previamente, el subregistro de fugas anastomóticas en el registro y el pequeño número de pacientes en el análisis de síntomas sexuales.Se descubrió que la fuga anastomótica aumentaba estadísticamente de manera significativa el riesgo de uso de ayuda debido a la incontinencia fecal y la actividad sexual reducida, aunque el impacto en la disfunción defecatoria podría estar subestimada, ya que a veces los estomas permanentes se forman debido a la disfunción anorrectal. Se justifica la investigación adicional, especialmente con respecto a la función urogenital. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B157. (Traducción-Dr. Gonzalo Hagerman).

Systematic Review on the Influence of Tissue Oxygenation on Gut Microbiota and Anastomotic Healing.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leak rates have not improved over several decades despite improvements in surgical techniques and patient care. The gut microbiome has been implicated in the development of leaks. The exact mechanisms by which tissue oxygenation affects gut microbial composition and anastomotic healing physiology are unclear. Also, commonly used carbon dioxide (CO2) is a known vasodilator that improves tissue oxygen tension. We performed a systematic review to determine the influence of hyperoxia, hypoxia, and hypercapnia on the gut microbiome and anastomotic healing. METHODS: A literature search was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and COCHRANE to identify studies investigating the effects of hyperoxia, hypoxia, and hypercapnia on anastomotic healing and gut microbiota published between 1998 and 2018. Two reviewers screened the articles for eligibility and quality. Fifty-three articles underwent full text review, and a narrative synthesis was undertaken. RESULTS: Hyperoxia is associated with better anastomotic healing, increased gastrointestinal oxygen tension, and may reduce gut anaerobes. Hypoxia is associated with poor healing and increased gut anaerobes. However, it is unclear if hypoxia is the most important predictor of anastomotic leaks. Low pressure CO2 pneumoperitoneum and mild systemic hypercapnia are both associated with increased gastrointestinal oxygen tension and may improve anastomotic healing. We found no studies which investigated the effect of hypercapnia on gut microbiota in the context of anastomotic healing. CONCLUSIONS: Tissue oxygenation influences gut anastomotic healing, but little evidence exists to demonstrate the influence on the gut microbiome in the context of healing. Further studies are needed to determine if anastomotic microbiome changes with altered tissue oxygenation and if this affects healing and leak rates. If confirmed, altering tissue oxygenation through hyperoxia or hypercapnia could be feasible means of altering the microbiome such that anastomotic leak rates reduce.

Quantitative Assessment of Blood Flow in the Gastric Conduit With Thermal Imaging for Esophageal Reconstruction.

OBJECTIVE: The study's primary aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of thermal imaging (TI) and its secondary aim was to compare TI and indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography, with respect to the evaluation of the viability of the gastric conduit. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The optimal method for evaluating perfusion in the gastric conduit for esophageal reconstruction has not been established. METHODS: We reviewed the prospectively collected data of 263 patients who had undergone esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction. TI was used in all patients. ICG fluorescence was concomitantly used in 24 patients to aid comparison with TI. A cut-off value of the anastomotic viability index (AVI) was calculated using the receiver operating characteristic curve in TI. RESULTS: Anastomotic leak was significantly less common in patients with AVI > 0.61 compared with those with AVI ≤ 0.61 (2% vs 28%, P< 0.001). Microvascular augmentation was performed in 20 patients with a low AVI score and/or preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Overall ability was comparable between TI and ICG fluorescence regarding the qualitative evaluation of the gastric conduit. However, TI was superior in the quantitative assessment of viability. CONCLUSIONS: TI could delineate the area of good perfusion in the gastric conduit for esophageal reconstruction, which can help identify patients at high risk of anastomotic leak.

Current evidence on the relation between gut microbiota and intestinal anastomotic leak in colorectal surgery.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leak (AL) is a major complication in colorectal surgery. It worsens morbidity, mortality and oncological outcomes in colorectal cancer. Some evidence suggests a potential effect of the intestinal microbiome on wound healing. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review on historical and current evidence regarding the relation between the gastrointestinal microbiota and AL in colorectal surgery, and the potential microbiota-modifying effect of some perioperative commonly used measures. DATA SOURCES: A comprehensive search was conducted in Pubmed, Medline and Embase for historical and current clinical and animal studies addressing perioperative intestinal microbiota evaluation, intestinal healing and AL. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence on microbes' role in AL is mainly derived from animal experiments. The microbiota's composition and implications are poorly understood in surgical patients. Elaborate microbiota sequencing is required in colorectal surgery to identify potentially beneficial microbial profiles that could lead to specific perioperative microbiome-altering measures and improve surgical and oncological outcomes.

The Risk Factor of Anastomotic Hypoperfusion in Colorectal Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Inadequate blood flow is an important risk factor for anastomotic leakage. Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging allows intraoperative assessment of intestinal blood flow. This study determined the risk factor of anastomotic hypoperfusion in colorectal surgery using ICG fluorescence imaging. METHODS: This study included 74 consecutive patients who underwent colorectal surgery between April 2017 and March 2018. ICG was injected intravenously after dividing the mesentery and central vessels along the planned transection line, but before completing the anastomosis. Intraoperative blood flow was evaluated using ICG fluorescence imaging. With regard to the patient-, tumor-, and surgery-related factors, anastomotic perfusion was evaluated based on the changed transection line and prolonged (more than 60 s) perfusion time. RESULTS: Intraoperative ICG fluorescence imaging was performed in all patients, and no adverse events were associated with ICG injection. Based on the perfusion assessment, we changed the transection line in six patients (8.1%). The prolonged perfusion time was observed in nine patients (12.2%). The postoperative course was uneventful in 63 (85.1%) patients, but one patient (1.4%) had postoperative anastomotic leakage. The changed transection line was significantly associated with anticoagulation therapy (P = 0.029). Well-known risk factors, including surgical site, sex, smoking, blood loss, operative time, and preoperative chemoradiotherapy, were not related to the changed transection line. Prolonged ICG perfusion time was not associated with any patient-, tumor-, or surgery-related factors. CONCLUSIONS: The evaluation of intraoperative blood flow using ICG fluorescence imaging may be able to detect anastomotic hypoperfusion, and anticoagulation therapy is a risk factor of anastomotic hypoperfusion in colorectal surgery.

An Experimental Study of Intraluminal Hyperpressure Reproducing a Gastric Leak Following a Sleeve Gastrectomy.

INTRODUCTION: A gastric leak (GL) represents the main post-operative complication following a sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and occurs most commonly at the top of the stapling, without any clear explanation. OBJECTIVE: This experimental study evaluates the biomechanical behavior of post-SG gastric specimens using both insufflation and tensile tests. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total gastrectomy followed by an ex vivo SG was performed in 15 pigs. The "sleeved" stomachs were subjected to intraluminal hyperpressure until failure. Uniaxial circumferential and longitudinal tensile tests were performed using gastric strips obtained from the "resected" stomachs. All the deformations and burst pressures were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: A GL appeared in the upper third of the stapling in 73% of cases. The mean burst pressure was 26.3 ± 5.3 mmHg and was significantly correlated with the volume of the "sleeved" stomachs (p = 0.02). The overall deformation of the "sleeved" stomachs was comparable in the frontal (38.3%) and profile (40.5%) planes. The greatest displacement was observed at the failure zone (11 mm on average). The biomechanical behavior of the stomach wall differed according to the strip orientation. The circumferential strips presented a higher strain-to-failure rate (97%) and a lower Young's modulus (0.99 MPa) when compared to the longitudinal strips (45% and 2.58 MPa, respectively). CONCLUSION: This preliminary study reproduced a GL in the same location as observed during clinical practice. The volume of the SG influenced the burst pressure. Further experimental studies and numerical simulations should evaluate the impact of shape modifications on an SG.

Mechanical factors in the prediction of integrity of the gastrojejunal anastomosis in ex-vivo RYGB models.

BACKGROUND: Surgical staplers represent one of the important instruments in modern surgery. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is one of the most commonly performed bariatric procedures. Various techniques have been described for performing gastrojejunal (GJ) anastomosis, including linear stapled anastomosis (LSA), circular stapled anastomosis (CSA) and hand-sewn anastomosis (HSA). OBJECTIVES: An ex-vivo porcine-based experiment was designed to compare the mechanical integrity of the GJ anastomosis among the 3 different techniques by measuring burst pressure (BP). SETTING: Laboratory-based study conducted at the clinical skills laboratory at Birmingham Heartlands Hospitals, Birmingham, United Kingdom. METHODS: Porcine stomachs and small bowels were used to create a GJ model. Four GJ anastomosis models each were created using circular stapler (CSA group) and hand-sewn techniques (HSA group). Stomach and small bowel thickness were recorded. BP was measured by sequential injections of methylene-blue diluted saline until a leak was detected. Total volume until leak is recorded. Compliance (C) was calculated using the formula C = ΔP/ΔV. RESULTS: Results from our previous experiment for the LSA group are included. One model was excluded from the CSA and the HSA groups due to technical errors. Results were presented as mean ± standard deviation. Total volume in LSA, CSA, and HSA groups was 60 ± 4.08 mL, 73.67 ± 3.22 mL, and 51.67 ± 20.21 mL, respectively. BP in LSA, CSA, and HSA groups was 18 ± 4.69 mm Hg, 20.33 ± 5.77 mm Hg, and 9.67 ± 3.79 mm Hg, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in BP among the 3 groups (P = .033; Kruskal-Wallis test). C in LSA, CSA, and HSA were 3.50 ± .88 mm Hg/mL, 3.78 ± .85 mm Hg/mL, and 5.39 ± 1.34 mm Hg/mL, respectively (P = .064). CONCLUSION: BP was higher in CSA and LSA groups compared with the HSA group, suggesting a mechanically stronger anastomosis. Despite the lack of statistical significance, higher BP recorded in the CSA group than in the LSA group suggests better anastomotic integrity.

The Predictive Value of Coefficient of PCT × BG for Anastomotic Leak in Esophageal Carcinoma Patients With ARDS After Esophagectomy.

Anastomotic leak was a potentially severe life-threatening complication of esophagectomy, which drew attention in consequence of progressive dyspnea until acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to the early asymptomatic presentation. Respiratory failure, caused by ARDS as the severe presentation of anastomotic leak, is the most common organ failure. CRP (C-reactive protein), procalcitonin (PCT), and Blood G (BG) test are the sensitivity markers for inflammatory, sepsis, and fungemia, respectively. Early recognition and intervention treatment of anastomotic leak may alleviate complication and improve outcome. We retrospectively analyzed 71 patients, accepting mechanical ventilation support because of ARDS as the complication after radical resection of esophagus cancer. Clinical data were collected from the patients' electronic medical records, including their clinically hematological examination, drainage fluid cultures, and sputum culture. Accord to appearance of anastomotic leak or not, all patients were divided into 2 groups, leak group and no-leak group. Inflammatory markers, such as CRP, PCT, and the coefficient of BG and PCT, were significantly different between the 2 groups. Respiratory index, white blood cell, hemoglobin (HBG), platelet (PLT), and other clinical factors were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to calculate the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the curve for various cutoff levels of several factors. Blood G tests presented the better predicting value for anastomotic leak. Blood G tests and PCT should be tested after esophagectomy. The coefficient of PCT and BG (>260) is of great significance, and clinical value to predict anastomotic leak for patients with postesophagectomy ARDS, early PCT and BG test, and especially, dynamic variation may alleviate complication and improve outcome.

Isoperistaltic versus antiperistaltic ileocolic anastomosis. Does it really matter? Results from a randomised clinical trial (ISOVANTI).

BACKGROUND: Right hemicolectomy is a very common surgery. Many studies compare different options for laparoscopic ileocolic anastomoses: intra- or extracorporeal; handsewn or stapled; side-to-side or end-to-side. However, there are no studies about the influence that peristalsis could have on this anastomosis. The aim of this study is to compare safety and feasibility of isoperistaltic and antiperistaltic anastomosis in terms of postoperative morbidity and mortality between both groups. The secondary endpoint is to compare long-term functional outcomes (chronic diarrhoea) and quality of life (GIQLI questionnaire) after a 1-year follow-up period. METHODS: A double-blind, randomised, prospective trial in patients undergoing scheduled surgery for right colon cancer with laparoscopic right hemicolectomy and isoperistaltic (ISO) or antiperistaltic (ANTI) ileocolic anastomoses. RESULTS: Hundred and eight patients were included in the study. Patients were randomised either to isoperistaltic or antiperistaltic configuration (54 ISO/ANTI). No significant differences in baseline variables were found. No differences in surgical time (130 [120-150] min ISO vs. 140 [127-160] ANTI, p = 0.481), nor in anastomotic time (19 [17-22] vs. 20 [16-25], p = 0.207) and nor in postoperative complications: 37.0% ISO versus 40.7% ANTI, (p = 0.693) were found. There were no differences in postoperative ileus (p = 0.112) nor in anastomotic leakage (3.7% vs. 5.56%, p = 1.00). Differences in "time to first flatus" and "time to first deposition" were found in favour of the antiperistaltic group (p = 0.004 and p = 0.017). Anastomotic configuration did not influence hospital stay (3 days [2-6] isoperistaltic vs. 3 [2-4] antiperistaltic, p = 0.236). During follow-up, there were no differences between the two groups at 1, 6 and 12 months (p = 0.154, p = 0.498 and p = 0.683), nor in chronic diarrhoea rates in GIQLI scores (24% ISO vs. 31.4% ANTI, p = 0.541). CONCLUSIONS: The isoperistaltic and antiperistaltic ileocolic anastomosis present similar results in terms of performance, safety and functionality. However, further studies must be carried out in order to assess relationship between postoperative ileus and anastomosis configuration. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Randomised Clinical trial (Identifier: NCT02309931).

Initial Assessment of Mucosal Capture and Leak Pressure After Gastrointestinal Stapling in a Porcine Model.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leak is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in gastrointestinal surgery. The serosal aspect of staple lines is commonly observed for integrity, but the mucosal surface and state of mucosa after firing is less often inspected. We sought to assess the degree of mucosal capture when using stapling devices and determine whether incomplete capture influences staple line integrity. METHODS: Porcine ileum was transected in vivo and staple lines were collected and rated for degree of mucosal capture on a 5-point scale from 1 (mucosa mainly captured on both sides) to 5 (majority of mucosa not captured). Mucosal capture was also assessed in ex vivo staple lines, and fluid leakage pressure and location of first leak was assessed. Stapling devices studied were Echelon Flex GST with 60-mm blue (GST60B) and green (GST60G) cartridges, and Medtronic EndoGIA Universal with Tri-Staple Technology™ with 60 mm medium (EGIA60AMT) reloads (purple). RESULTS: GST60B and GST60G staple lines produced significantly better mucosal capture scores than the EGIA60AMT staple lines (p < 0.001, in all tests). Compared to EGIA60AMT, leak pressures were 39% higher for GST60B (p < 0.001) and 23% higher for GST60G (p = 0.022). Initial staple line leak site was associated with incomplete mucosal capture 78% of the time. CONCLUSIONS: There are differences in degree of mucosal capture between commercial staplers, and the devices that produce better mucosal capture had significantly higher leak pressures. Further research is needed to determine the significance of these findings on staple line healing throughout the postoperative period.