Technical risk factors for benign anastomotic strictures in colorectal and/or coloanal anastomosis: A retrospective case-control study.

AIM: Anastomotic stricture occurs in up to 30% of colorectal resections; however, evidence on risk factors and preventive measures remains scarce. This study aimed to identify technical factors responsible for increasing the risk for colorectal and coloanal anastomotic strictures. METHOD: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with anastomotic stricture who underwent resection and/or redo anastomosis between January 1, 2011 and August 1, 2021 in a tertiary referral centre. Patients with anastomotic stricture were compared with an equal number of randomly selected patients without anastomotic complications, who were operated on during the same time period. The main outcome measures were technical risk factors of anastomotic stricture. RESULTS: Each group included 50 patients who were similar for age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, distance of anastomosis to the dentate line and indication for surgery. Median follow-up was significantly longer in the non-stricture group (38.6 months vs. 12.6 months, p = 0.04). Splenic flexure mobilization [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.18 [2], 95% CI: 0.08-0.39, p < 0.001], high ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery (HR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.09-0.5, p < 0.001) and high ligation of the inferior mesenteric vein (HR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.09-0.50, p < 0.001) were associated with a lower likelihood of anastomotic stricture. Conversely, use of a 25-mm-diameter circular stapler (HR = 22.69, 95% CI: 2.69-191.10, p < 0.001), clinically significant anastomotic leak (HR = 3.94, 95% CI: 2.04-7.64, p < 0.001), firing the stapler more than once for rectal division (HR = 24.75, 95% CI: 6.85-89.38, p < 0.001) and diverting stoma (HR = 3.087, 95% CI: 1.736-5.491, p < 0.0001) were predictive of an anastomotic stricture. CONCLUSION: Failure to mobilize the splenic flexure and to perform high ligation of the inferior mesenteric vessels were associated with higher odds of anastomotic stricture. A small-diameter circular stapler and multiple distal stapler firings were also associated with anastomotic stricture. These data support routine splenic flexure ligation and high ligation of the inferior mesenteric vessels as well as avoidance of both multiple  stapler firings for rectal transection and a 25-mm circular stapler for anastomosis..

Factors Associated With Prolonged Operative Times in Laparoscopic Right Hemicolectomy and Its Association With Short-Term Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate factors associated with prolonged operative time in laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for colon cancer. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of patients with colon cancer who underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy between 2011 and 2021. Linear and binary logistic regression analyses were performed to determine factors associated with prolonged operative time. The association between longer operative times and complications and hospital stay was assessed. RESULTS: One hundred and ninety-seven patients (52.3% female; mean age: 68.8 ± 14.1 years) were included. Factors independently associated with operative time were male sex (ß = 17.3, 95% CI: 2, 32.5; p = 0.026) and extended hemicolectomy (ß = 67.7, 95% CI: 27.6, 107.9; p = 0.001). American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) IV classification had a borderline significant association with operative time (ß = 100.4, 95% CI: -2.05, 202.9; p = 0.055). Male sex (r = 0.158; p = 0.026), body mass index (r = 0.205; p = 0.004), ASA classification (r = 0.232; p = 0.001), extended hemicolectomy (r = 0.256; p < 0.001), and intracorporeal vessel control (r = 0.161; p = 0.025) had significant positive correlation with operative times. Patients with operative times ≥ 160 min had significantly longer hospital stays (5 vs. 4 days; p = 0.043) and similar complication rates to patients with shorter operative times. CONCLUSIONS: Male sex, advanced ASA classification, and extended hemicolectomy were independently and significantly associated with longer operative times in laparoscopic right hemicolectomy. Longer operative times were associated with longer hospital stays and similar complication rates.

The impact of facility type on surgical outcomes in colon cancer patients: analysis of the national cancer database.

BACKGROUND: The type of facility where patients with colon cancer are treated may play a significant role in their outcomes. We aimed to investigate the influence of facility types included in the National Cancer Database (NCDB) on surgical outcomes of colon cancer. METHODS: Retrospective cohort analysis of all patients with stage I-III colon cancer included in the NCDB database between 2010 and 2019 was performed. Patients were grouped based on facility type: Academic/Research Programs (ARP), Community Cancer Programs (CCP), Comprehensive Community Cancer Programs (CCCP), and Integrated Network Cancer Programs (INCP). Study outcomes included overall survival, 30- and 90-day mortality, 30-day readmission and conversion to open surgery. RESULTS: 125,935 patients were included with a median age of 68.7 years (50.5% females). Most tumors were in the right colon (50.6%). Patient were distributed among facility types as ARP (n = 34,321, 27%), CCP (n = 12,692, 10%), CCCP (n = 54,356, 43%), and INCP (n = 24,566, 19%). In terms of surgical approach, laparoscopy was more commonly used in ARP (46%) (p < 0.001). Laparotomy was more common in CCP (58.7%) (p < 0.001), and conversely, CCP had the least amount of robotic surgery (3.9%) (p < 0.001). Median overall survival was highest in ARP (129 months, 95% CI 127.4-134.1) and lowest in CCP (103.7 months, 95% CI 100.1-106.7) (p < 0.001). Conversion rates were comparable between ARP (12%), CCCP (12%) and INCP (11.8%) but were higher in CCP (15.5%) (p < 0.001). 30-day readmission rates and 30-day mortality rates were significantly lower in ARP compared to other facility types (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our findings display differences in surgical outcomes of colon cancer patients among facility types. The findings suggest better outcomes in terms of operative access and survival at ARP as compared to other facilities. These findings underscore the importance of understanding facility-specific factors that may influence patient outcomes and can guide resource allocation and targeted interventions for improving colon cancer care.

Pathologic Outcomes and Survival in Patients with Rectal Cancer and Increased Body Mass Index.

INTRODUCTION: We assessed the association between increased body mass index (BMI) and rectal cancer outcomes. METHODS: We included patients who underwent surgery for stage I-III rectal adenocarcinoma who were divided according to BMI at diagnosis: ideal BMI (18.5-24.9 kg/m2) and increased BMI (≥25 kg/m2). Groups were compared using univariate association analyses relative to baseline characteristics, pathologic outcomes, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS). Main outcome measures involved circumferential resection margin (CRM), pathologic TNM stage, total mesorectal incision (TME) grade, OS, and DFS. RESULTS: 243 patients (64.6% male; median age 59 years) with a median BMI of 26.3 kg/m2 were included. 62.1% had BMI ≥25 kg/m2. Increased BMI patients had similar proportions of males (66.9% vs. 60.9%; p = 0.407) and comorbidities (ASA III: 47% vs. 37.4%; p = 0.24) to ideal BMI patients. There were no significant differences in cN1-2 stage (p = 0.279) or positive CRM (p = 0.062) rates. The groups had similar complete/near-complete TME, pathologic TN stage, and survival rates. Pathologic and survival outcomes were also similar with a BMI cutoff of 30. CONCLUSIONS: There was a trend toward more nodal involvement in preoperative assessment and less CRM involvement in the final pathology of patients with increased BMI. Complete/near-complete TME and survival rates were comparable between the groups.

Umbrella review of systematic reviews on the efficacy and safety of using mesh in the prevention of parastomal hernias.

BACKGROUND: This umbrella review aimed to summarize the findings and conclusions of published systematic reviews on the prophylactic role of mesh against parastomal hernias in colorectal surgery. METHODS: PRISMA-compliant umbrella overview of systematic reviews on the role of mesh in prevention of parastomal hernias was conducted. PubMed and Scopus were searched through November 2023. Main outcomes were efficacy and safety of mesh. Efficacy was assessed by the rates of clinically and radiologically detected hernias and the need for surgical repair, while safety was assessed by the rates of overall complications. RESULTS: 19 systematic reviews were assessed; 7 included only patients with end colostomy and 12 included patients with either ileostomy or colostomy. The use of mesh significantly reduced the risk of clinically detected parastomal hernias in all reviews except one. Seven reviews reported a significantly lower risk of radiologically detected parastomal hernias with the use of mesh. The pooled hazards ratio of clinically detected and radiologically detected parastomal hernias was 0.33 (95%CI: 0.26-0.41) and 0.55 (95%CI: 0.45-0.68), respectively. Six reviews reported a significant reduction in the need for surgical repair when a mesh was used whereas six reviews found a similar need for hernia repair. The pooled hazards ratio for surgical hernia repair was 0.46 (95%CI: 0.35-0.62). Eight reviews reported similar complications in the two groups. The pooled hazard ratio of complications was 0.81 (95%CI: 0.66-1). CONCLUSIONS: The use of surgical mesh is likely effective and safe in the prevention of parastomal hernias without an increased risk of overall complications.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of high-quality randomized controlled trials on the role of prehabilitation programs in colorectal surgery.

BACKGROUND: Prehabilitation is gaining popularity in colorectal surgery but lacks high-quality postoperative outcomes data. This meta-analysis explored whether prehabilitation impacts postoperative outcomes. METHODS: In this meta-analysis, compliant with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses, we searched PubMed and Scopus through November 2022. High-quality randomized control trials involving adults who underwent colorectal surgery with/without exercise-based prehabilitation were included. The main outcomes were short-term postoperative morbidity, readmissions, and length of stay. Random-effect meta-analyses were performed, and statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. RESULTS: Seven high-quality randomized control trials comprising 1,225 patients were included. The median prehabilitation duration was 4 (2-4) weeks. Four studies compared prehabilitation and standard of care, and 3 compared prehabilitation and rehabilitation. Exercise-based prehabilitation did not reduce the odds of short-term complications (odds ratio 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.27-1.40, P = .25, I2 = 68%) or readmission (odds ratio 1, 95% confidence interval 0.73-1.46, P = .85, I2 = 0%). The prehabilitation group had shorter length of hospital stay (weighted mean difference -0.2, 95% confidence interval -0.25 to -0.14, P < .0001, I2 = 43.3%). Prehabilitation and rehabilitation had similar odds of short-term complications (odds ratio 1.03, 95% confidence interval 0.56-1.89, P = .91, I2 = 33%), length of stay (weighted mean difference -0.16, 95% confidence interval -0.47 to 0.16, P = .33, I2 = 59%), and readmission (odds ratio 1.25, 95% confidence interval 0.28-5.56, P = .77, I2 = 52%). The only benefit of prehabilitation over rehabilitation was better 6-minute walking distance test results at time of surgery (weighted mean difference: -9.4 m; 95% confidence interval -18.04 to 0.79, P = .03, I2 = 42%). CONCLUSION: Prehabilitation provided decreased postoperative length of hospital stay and improved preoperative functional outcomes, but not reduced odds of complications and/or readmissions. Prehabilitation and rehabilitation had similar clinical outcomes.

Risk factors for complications following sacral neuromodulation for faecal incontinence: Long-term follow-up.

AIM: Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) has become a standard surgical treatment for faecal incontinence (FI). Prior studies have reported various adverse events of SNM, including suboptimal therapeutic response, infection, pain, haematoma, and potential need for redo SNM. The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors associated with long-term complications of SNM. METHOD: This retrospective cohort reviewed patients who underwent two-stage SNM for FI at our institution between 2011-2021. Preoperative baseline characteristics and follow-up were obtained from the medical record and/or by telephone interview. Management and outcome of each postoperative event were evaluated by univariate and multivariate regression analyses. RESULTS: A total of 291 patients (85.2% female) were included in this study. Postoperative complications were recorded in 219 (75.2%) patients and 154 (52.9%) patients required surgical intervention to treat complications. The most common postoperative event was loss of efficacy (46.4%). Other common adverse events were problems at the implant site (pain, infection, etc.) in 16.5% and pain during stimulation in 11.7%. Previous vaginal delivery (OR 2.74, p = 0.003) and anal surgery (OR = 2.46, p = 0.039) were independent predictors for complications. Previous colorectal (OR = 2.04, p = 0.026) and anal (OR = 1.98, p = 0.022) surgery and history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (OR = 3.49, p = 0.003) were independent predictors for loss of efficacy. CONCLUSION: Postoperative adverse events are frequently recorded after SNM. Loss of efficacy is the most common. Previous colorectal or anal surgery, vaginal delivery, and IBS are independent risk factors for complications.

Trans­anal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) versus rigid platforms for local excision of early rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Available platforms for local excision (LE) of early rectal cancer are rigid or flexible [trans­anal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS)]. We systematically searched the literature to compare outcomes between platforms. METHODS: PRISMA-compliant search of PubMed and Scopus databases until September 2022 was undertaken in this random-effect meta-analysis. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistic. Studies comparing TAMIS versus rigid platforms for LE for early rectal cancer were included. Main outcome measures were intraoperative and short-term postoperative outcomes and specimen quality. RESULTS: 7 studies were published between 2015 and 2022, including 931 patients (423 females); 402 underwent TAMIS and 529 underwent LE with rigid platforms. Techniques were similar for operative time (WMD 11.1, 95%CI - 2.6 to 25, p = 0.11), percentage of defect closure (OR 0.7, 95%CI 0.06-8.22, p = 0.78), and peritoneal violation (OR 0.41, 95%CI 0.12-1.43, p = 0.16). Rigid platforms had higher rates of short-term complications (19.1% vs 14.2, OR 1.6, 95%CI 1.07-2.4, p = 0.02), although no significant differences were seen for major complications (OR 1.41, 95%CI 0.61-3.23, p = 0.41). Patients in the rigid platforms group were 3-times more likely to be re-admitted within 30 days compared to the TAMIS group (OR 3.1, 95%CI 1.07-9.4, p = 0.03). Rates of positive resection margins (rigid platforms: 7.6% vs TAMIS: 9.34%, OR 0.81, 95%CI 0.42-1.55, p = 0.53) and specimen fragmentation (rigid platforms: 3.3% vs TAMIS: 4.4%, OR 0.74, 95%CI 0.33-1.64, p = 0.46) were similar between the groups. Salvage surgery was required in 5.5% of rigid platform patients and 6.2% of TAMIS patients (OR 0.8, 95%CI 0.4-1.8, p = 0.7). CONCLUSION: TAMIS or rigid platforms for LE seem to have similar operative outcomes and specimen quality. The TAMIS group demonstrated lower readmission and overall complication rates but did not significantly differ for major complications. The choice of platform should be based on availability, cost, and surgeon's preference.

An artificial intelligence-designed predictive calculator of conversion from minimally invasive to open colectomy in colon cancer.

Minimally invasive surgery is safe and effective in colorectal cancer. Conversion to open surgery may be associated with adverse effects on treatment outcomes. This study aimed to assess risk factors of conversion from minimally invasive to open colectomy for colon cancer and impact of conversion on short-term and survival outcomes. This case-control study included colon cancer patients undergoing minimally invasive colectomy from the National Cancer Database (2015-2019). Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine independent predictors of conversion from laparoscopic and robotic colectomy to open surgery. 26,546 patients (mean age: 66.9 ± 13.1 years) were included. Laparoscopic and robotic colectomies were performed in 79.1% and 20.9% of patients, respectively, with a 10.6% conversion rate. Independent predictors of conversion were male sex (OR: 1.19, p = 0.014), left-sided cancer (OR: 1.35, p < 0.001), tumor size (OR: 1, p = 0.047), stage II (OR: 1.25, p = 0.007) and stage III (OR: 1.47, p < 0.001) disease, undifferentiated carcinomas (OR: 1.93, p = 0.002), subtotal (OR: 1.25, p = 0.011) and total (OR: 2.06, p < 0.001) colectomy, resection of contiguous organs (OR: 1.9, p < 0.001), and robotic colectomy (OR: 0.501, p < 0.001). Conversion was associated with higher 30- and 90-day mortality and unplanned readmission, longer hospital stay, and shorter overall survival (59.8 vs 65.3 months, p < 0.001). Male patients, patients with bulky, high-grade, advanced-stage, and left-sided colon cancers, and patients undergoing extended resections are at increased risk of conversion from minimally invasive to open colectomy. The robotic platform was associated with reduced odds of conversion. However, surgeons' technical skills and criteria for conversion could not be assessed.

Predictors and Impact of Ileus on Outcomes After Laparoscopic Right Colectomy: A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND: Ileus is a common complication of major abdominal surgery, including colorectal resection. The present study aimed to assess the predictors of ileus after laparoscopic right colectomy for colon cancer. METHODS: This study was a retrospective case-control analysis of a prospective IRB-approved database of patients who underwent laparoscopic right colectomy at the Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Florida. Patients who developed ileus after right colectomy were compared to patients without ileus to determine the risk factors of ileus. RESULTS: The present study included 270 patients with a mean age of 68.7 years. Thirty-six patients (13.3%) experienced ileus after laparoscopic right colectomy. The median duration of ileus was 6 days. Factors associated with ileus were age (71.6 vs 68.2 years, P = .158), emergency colectomy (11.1% vs 3.9%, P = .082), extended hemicolectomy (19.4% vs 6.8%, P = .021), green gastrointestinal anastomosis (GIA) 4.8mm staple height cartridge (19% vs 8.1%, P = .114), and longer operative time (177.9 vs 160.4 minutes, P = .157). The only independent predictor of ileus was extended colectomy (OR: 16.7, P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: Increased age, emergency surgery, green GIA cartridge, and longer operative times were associated with ileus, yet the only independent predictor of ileus was extended right hemicolectomy.

Association between body mass index and short-term outcomes of laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for colon cancer.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic right hemicolectomy can be technically challenging in patients with increased body mass index, reportedly associated with higher surgical site infection (SSI) and incisional hernia rates. We aimed to assess the association between increased body mass index and short-term outcomes of laparoscopic right hemicolectomy. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included patients with colon cancer who underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy between 2011 and 2021. Patients were managed with a standardized care protocol that comprised preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative measures and were divided according to body mass index-normal body mass index (18-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25-29.9 kg/m2), and obesity (≥30 kg/m2). Body mass index groups were compared for baseline characteristics and outcomes. The main outcome measures were operative time, hospital stay, 30-day complications, reoperation, number of harvested lymph nodes, and resection status. RESULTS: A total of 270 patients (50% male sex; mean age: 68.7 ± 13.5 years) were included-28.5% had normal body mass index, 47% were overweight, and 24.5% had obesity. Mean operative times in obese and overweight patients were significantly longer than patients with normal body mass index (172.1 and 168.8 versus 143.3 minutes, P = .01). Compared to normal body mass index, obesity was associated with significantly higher odds of incisional SSI (odds ratio: 9.29, P = .039). Body mass index had a significant positive correlation with operation time (r = 0.205, P = .004) and incisional SSI (r = 0.126, P = .04). Body mass index groups had similar hospital stays, 30-day complications and mortality, anastomotic leak, ileus, and reoperation. CONCLUSION: Patients with increased body mass index had longer operative times and higher SSI rates, yet similar hospital stays and comparable 30-day complication rates, mortality, and reoperation to patients with normal body mass index.

Predictors of lymph node metastasis and survival in radically resected rectal neuroendocrine tumors: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database analysis.

BACKGROUND: Rectal neuroendocrine tumors are uncommon tumor types. Lymph node metastases may occur in up to 40%, potentially impacting decision-making. We aimed to assess risk factors for lymph node metastases of rectal neuroendocrine tumors and their association with overall and cancer-specific survival. METHODS: This retrospective case-control study involved patients with stage I to III rectal neuroendocrine tumors who underwent radical resection. Data were derived from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2000-2020). Patients with pathologic evidence of lymph node metastases were compared to those without lymph node metastases for baseline patient and tumor characteristics. The main outcomes were lymph node metastases, overall survival, and cancer-specific survival. RESULTS: In total, 580 patients (50.9% male; mean age: 58.9 years) were included. The lymph node metastases rate was 37.1%. Independent predictors of lymph node metastases were Grade 2 neuroendocrine tumors (odds ratio: 8.06; P = .001), neuroendocrine carcinoma (odds ratio: 2.59, P = .006), large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (odds ratio: 4.89; P = .017), T2 tumors (odds ratio: 6.44; P < .001), T3 tumors (odds ratio: 27.5; P < .001), and T4 tumors (odds ratio: 17.3; P < .001). Lymph node metastases were associated with shorter restricted mean overall survival (40.8 vs 52.7 months; P < .001) and cancer-specific survival (41.3 vs 54.8 months; P < .001). When adjusted for other confounders, the nodal status of rectal neuroendocrine tumors was not independently associated with overall (hazard ratio = 1.56; P = .165) or cancer-specific survival (hazard ratio = 1.69; P = .158). Significant factors associated with worse overall survival and cancer-specific survival were age, tumor size, neuroendocrine carcinomas, large-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas, and the number of positive lymph nodes. CONCLUSIONS: Lymph node metastases of rectal neuroendocrine tumors were more likely associated with high-grade, large-sized, and T2 to T4 tumors. The number of involved lymph nodes was an independent predictor of overall and cancer-specific survival. Other independent survival predictors were tumor grade, size, and T stage.

Splenic flexure mobilization in left-sided colonic and rectal resections: A meta-analysis and meta-regression of factors associated with anastomotic leak and complications.

AIM: Splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) is commonly performed during left-sided colon and rectal resections. The aim of the present systematic review was to assess the outcomes of SFM in left-sided colon and rectal resections and the risk factors for complications and anastomotic leak (AL). METHOD: This study was a PRISMA-compliant systematic review. PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were searched for studies that assessed the outcomes of sigmoid and rectal resections with or without SFM. The primary outcomes were AL and total complications, and the secondary outcomes were individual complications, operating time, conversion to open surgery, length of hospital stay (LOS) and pathological and oncological outcomes. RESULTS: Nineteen studies including data on 81 116 patients (49.1% male) were reviewed. SFM was undertaken in 40.7% of patients. SFM was associated with a longer operating time (weighted mean difference 24.50, 95% CI 14.47-34.52, p < 0.0001) and higher odds of AL (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06-1.33, p = 0.002). Both groups had similar odds of total complications, splenic injury, anastomotic stricture, conversion to open surgery, (LOS), local recurrence, and overall survival. A secondary analysis of rectal cancer cases only showed similar outcomes for SFM and the control group. CONCLUSIONS: SFM was associated with a longer operating time and higher odds of AL, yet a similar likelihood of total complications, splenic injury, anastomotic stricture, conversion to open surgery, LOS, local recurrence, and overall survival. These conclusions must be cautiously interpreted considering the numerous study limitations. SFM may have only been selectively undertaken in cases in which anastomotic tension was suspected. Therefore, the suboptimal anastomoses may have been the reason for SFM rather than the SFM being causative of the anastomotic insufficiencies.

Local vs radical resection of stage I-III rectal cancer in very elderly patients: an exact matched analysis of the National Cancer Database.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of elderly patients with cancer is challenging as they can be overtreated with respect to frailty or undertreated because of advanced age. Maintaining a good quality of life is essential for this population. This study aimed to assess the difference in overall survival and short-term outcomes according to the extent of rectal cancer resection in patients aged ≥80 years. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, very elderly patients with stage I-III rectal cancer aged ≥80 years were identified from the National Cancer Database (2004-2019). Patients were divided into 2 groups: radical resection and local excision. The groups were matched using exact matched analysis for clinical T and N stage, tumor size, and neoadjuvant treatment. The main outcome measures were overall survival, hospital stay, 30-day unplanned readmissions, and short-term mortality. RESULTS: A total of 9634 patients were included (local excision = 2710; radical resection = 6924). After matching, 1106 patients were included in each group with a median follow-up of 49.9 and 51.7 months, respectively. The radical resection group had statistically significantly longer overall survival than did the local excision group (60 vs 57.2 months, P = .026). Local excision was associated with shorter length of stay (1 vs 7 days. P < .001), lower 30-day mortality (odds ratio: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.25-0.75, P = .003), lower 90-day mortality (odds ratio: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.32-0.68, P < .001), and lower 30-day readmission (odds ratio: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.33-0.74, P < .001). A subgroup analysis of matched patients with cTis-T2 and N0 tumors who underwent curative surgery revealed similar results. CONCLUSION: Radical resection of rectal cancer in very elderly patients has a modest survival benefit, whereas local excision has lower odds of readmission and short-term mortality.

Should We Operate Nonagenarians with Symptomatic Giant Paraesophageal Hernias?

Introduction: Hiatal hernia (HH) is a common disorder of the upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract that general surgeons encounter. Giant paraesophageal is a subtype of HH in which more than 30% of the stomach is located in the chest. It can cause symptoms such as dysphagia, UGI bleeding, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and vomiting. As the life expectancy of the general population increases, the incidence of giant HH increases and can cause morbidity, including recurrent admissions and prolonged length of hospitalization. In this article, we describe a cohort of nonagenarian patients with HH who were admitted to our institution and were treated either surgically or medically. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our prospectively maintained database of all nonagenarians who were admitted to our center between 2018 and 2022 with the diagnosis of HH. We compared the demographic data, clinical data, and outcomes between patients undergoing operative and nonoperative management. Results: Twenty patients of age over 90 years were hospitalized with HH-related symptoms. Six underwent surgery, whereas 14 received medical management. Surgical patients had fewer overall hospitalization days, shorter length of stay, and less blood product requirements. Notably two cases of in-hospital mortality occurred in the nonoperative group, whereas none occurred in the operative group. All surgical procedures were performed laparoscopically, with two minor perioperative complications. Conclusion: In selected nonagenarian patients, laparoscopic HH repair is safe and should be considered favorably. It can reduce hospitalization time and can mitigate morbidity.

Effect of neoadjuvant therapy regimens on lymph nodes yield in rectal cancer.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Pathological nodal staging is relevant to postoperative decision-making and a prognostic marker of cancer survival. This study aimed to assess the effect of different total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) regimens on lymph node status following total mesorectal excision (TME) for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of patients treated for node-positive clinical stage 3 LARC with TNT between January 2015 and August 2022. Patients were stratified into induction therapy and consolidation therapy groups. Variables collated included patient demographics, clinical and radiological characteristics of the tumor, and pathology of the resected specimen. Primary outcome was total harvested lymph nodes. RESULTS: Ninety-seven patients were included (57 [58.8%] males; mean age of 58.5 ± 11.4 years). The induction therapy group included 85 (87.6%) patients while 12 (12.4%) patients received consolidation therapy. A median interquartile range value of 22.00 (5.00-72.00) harvested lymph nodes was recorded for the induction therapy group in comparison to 16.00 (16.00-47.00) in the consolidation therapy arm (p = 0.487). Overall pathological complete response rate was 34%. CONCLUSION: Total harvested nodes from resected specimens were marginally lower in the consolidation therapy group. Induction therapy may be preferrable to optimize postoperative specimen staging.

Characteristics and outcomes of large (≥5 cm) colonic adenocarcinomas and comparing outcomes of minimally invasive and open surgery for stage I to III disease.

BACKGROUND: Colon cancer prognosis is primarily dependent on the stage at diagnosis, but tumor size and location may also impact prognosis. This study aimed to assess the characteristics and outcomes of patients with ≥5 cm colonic adenocarcinomas and compare outcomes of open and minimally invasive surgery for stage I to III large colonic adenocarcinomas. METHODS: The National Cancer Database (2010-2019) was searched for patients with colonic adenocarcinomas ≥5 cm. Outcomes of patients who underwent minimally invasive surgery or open surgery were compared after propensity-score matching. The primary outcome was 5-year overall survival and, secondarily, hospital stay, surgical margins, and short-term mortality. RESULTS: A total of 126,959 patients were included (22.1% of all diagnosed adenocarcinomas). 56% of tumors were right-sided, 32.6% were left-sided, and 11.4% were in the transverse colon. Stage IV disease was recorded in 34.6% of patients. Lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, and Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog mutations were recorded in 35.7%, 14.9%, and 41.6% of patients. The rate of positive surgical margins was 9.8%. Median hospital stay was 6 (interquartile range: 4-8) days. 30- and 90-day mortality rates were 4.1% and 7.5%, respectively. After matching, 15,228 patients in the open surgery group were matched to a similar number in the minimally invasive surgery group. The minimally invasive surgery group was associated with significantly lower rates of 30- and 90-day mortality, positive surgical margins, shorter hospital stay, and longer median overall survival (110.6 vs 86.6 months, P < .001) than did open surgery. CONCLUSION: Large colonic adenocarcinomas are mostly right-sided or transverse and present at a more advanced stage with adverse pathologic features. Minimally invasive surgery was associated with better overall survival and short-term benefits when compared with open surgery.

Upfront laparotomy versus conversion from minimally invasive surgery to open surgery in colon cancer: Is there a difference in outcomes?

BACKGROUND: It is unclear whether conversion from minimally invasive surgery to laparotomy in patients with colon cancer contributes to worse outcomes compared with those operated by laparotomy. In this study, we aimed to assess the implications of transitioning from minimally invasive surgery to laparotomy in patients with colon cancer compared with patients undergoing upfront laparotomy. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the National Cancer Database, including patients with stages I to III colon cancer (2010-2019). Patients who underwent either upfront laparotomy (Open Surgery Group) or minimally invasive surgery converted to open surgery (Converted Surgery Group) were included. Groups were balanced using propensity-score matching. Primary outcome was overall survival, and secondary outcomes included 30- and 90-day mortality and 30-day readmission rates. RESULTS: The study included 65,083 operated patients with stage I to III colon cancer; 57,091 patients (87.7%) were included in the Open Surgery group and 7,992 (12.3%) in the Converted Surgery group. 93.5% were converted from laparoscopy, and 6.5% were converted from robotic surgery. After propensity-score matching, 7,058 patients were included in each group. Median overall survival was significantly higher in the Converted Surgery group (107.3 months) than in the Open Surgery group (101.5 months; P = .006). A survival benefit was seen in patients >65 years of age (79.5 vs 71.9 months; P = .001), left-sided disease (129.4 vs 114.5 months; P < .001), and with a high Charlson comorbidity index score (=3; 58.9 vs 42.3 months; P = .03). Positive margin rates were similar between the groups (6.3% vs 5.6%; P = .07). Converted patients had a higher 30-day readmission rate (6.7% vs 5.6%, P = .006) and shorter duration of stay (median, 5 vs 6 days, P < .001) than patients in the Open Surgery group. In addition, 30-day mortality was comparable between the groups (2.9% vs 3.5%; P = .07). CONCLUSION: Conversion to open surgery from minimally invasive surgery was associated with better overall survival compared with upfront open surgery. A survival benefit was mainly seen in patients >65 years of age, with significant comorbidities, and with left-sided tumors. We believe these data suggest that, in the absence of an absolute contraindication to minimally invasive surgery, it should be the preferred approach in patients with colon cancer.

Immunotherapy in Stage III-IV Colon Cancer: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of the National Cancer Database.

SUMMARY: Immunotherapy for the systemic treatment of cancer offers new treatment possibilities for advanced malignancies. Despite promising initial results, evidence on efficacy of immunotherapy for colon cancer is lacking. Thus, we aimed to assess short-term and long-term outcomes of immunotherapy in patients with advanced colon cancer. A US National Cancer Database was searched for patients with stage III-IV colonic adenocarcinoma between 2010 and 2019. Propensity score matching was used to classify the cohort into 2 groups: patients who received immunotherapy and controls. Main outcome measures were primary outcome was overall survival (OS). A total of 23,778 patients with stage III-IV colonic adenocarcinoma were treated with immunotherapy during the study period compared to 114,753 controls. Immunotherapy treated patients were younger (median age 61 vs. 67 y; P <0.001), more often male (57.3% vs. 50.7%, P <0.001), had more private insurance (44.1% vs. 33.7%; P <0.001), had more left-sided tumors (49.5% vs. 39.1%; P <0.001) and liver metastasis (80.2% vs. 61.7%; P <0.001) than controls. Immunotherapy patients received more standard chemotherapy (49.8% vs. 41.6%; P <0.001). After propensity-score matching, mean OS was significantly shorter in the immunotherapy group compared with controls (34.7 vs. 36.2 mo; P =0.008). Cox regression analysis demonstrated that immunotherapy was associated with increased risk for mortality (HR: 1.1; 95% CI: 1.02-1.18; P =0.005). Patients who received immunotherapy had lower 90-day mortality rates compared with controls (2.3% vs. 3.6%; P =0.004), but the groups had equivalent 30-day mortality rates (0.7% vs. 0.8%; P =0.76). Immunotherapy showed no improvement in OS in patients with stage III-IV colon cancer.

Propensity-score matched outcomes of resection of stage IV primary colon cancer with and without simultaneous resection of liver metastases.

There is controversy in the best management of colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CLM). This study aimed to compare short-term and survival outcomes of simultaneous resection of CLM and primary colon cancer compared to resection of only colon cancer. This retrospective matched cohort study included patients from the National Cancer Database (2015-2019) with stage IV colon adenocarcinoma and synchronous liver metastases who underwent colectomy. Patients were divided into two groups: colectomy-only (resection of primary colon cancer only) and colectomy-plus (simultaneous resection of primary colon cancer and liver metastases). The groups were matched using the propensity score method. The primary outcome was short-term mortality and readmission. Secondary outcomes were conversion, hospital stay, surgical margins, and overall survival. 4082 (37.6%) of 10,862 patients underwent simultaneous resection of primary colon cancer and liver metastases. After matching, 2038 patients were included in each group. There were no significant differences between the groups in 30-days mortality (3.1% vs 3.8%, p = 0.301), 90-days (6.6% vs 7.7%, p = 0.205) mortality, 30-days unplanned readmission (7.2% vs 5.3%, p = 0.020), or conversion to open surgery (15.5% vs. 13.8%, p = 0.298). Patients in the colectomy plus group had a higher rate of lower incidence of positive surgical margins (13.2% vs. 17.2%, p = 0.001) and longer overall survival (median: 41.5 vs 28.4 months, p < 0.001). Synchronous resection of CLM did not increase the rates of short-term mortality, readmission, conversion from minimally invasive to open surgery, or hospital stay and was associated with a lower incidence of positive surgical margins.