A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of the Impact of Neoadjuvant Radiation Therapy on the Outcomes of Stage II and III Mucinous Rectal Carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Patients with mucinous rectal carcinoma tend to present in advanced stage with a poor prognosis. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the effect of neoadjuvant radiation therapy on outcomes of patients with stage II and III mucinous rectal carcinomas using data from the National Cancer Database. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of prospective national databases. SETTING: National Cancer Database between 2004 and 2019. PATIENTS: Patients with mucinous rectal carcinoma. INTERVENTION: Patients who did or did not receive neoadjuvant radiation therapy were matched using the nearest-neighbor propensity score method for age, clinical stage, neoadjuvant systemic treatment, and surgery type. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Main outcomes of the study were numbers of total harvested and positive lymph nodes, disease downstaging after neoadjuvant radiation, and overall survival. Other outcomes were hospital stay, short-term mortality, and readmission. RESULTS: A total of 3062 patients (63.5% men) with stage II and III mucinous rectal carcinoma were included, 2378 of whom (77.7%) received neoadjuvant radiation therapy. After 2:1 propensity score matching, 143 patients in the no neoadjuvant group were matched to 286 patients in the neoadjuvant group. The mean overall survival was similar (77.3 vs 81.9 months; p = 0.316). Patients who received neoadjuvant radiation therapy were less often diagnosed with pathologic T3 and 4 disease (72.3% vs 81.3%, p = 0.013) and more often had pathologic stage 0 and 1 disease (16.4% vs 11.2%, p = 0.001), yet with a higher stage III disease (49.7% vs 37.1%, p = 0.001). Neoadjuvant radiation was associated with fewer examined lymph nodes (median: 14 vs 16, p = 0.036) and positive lymph nodes than patients who did not receive neoadjuvant radiation. Short-term mortality, readmission, hospital stay, and positive surgical margins were similar. LIMITATIONS: Retrospective study and missing data on disease recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with mucinous rectal carcinoma who received neoadjuvant radiation therapy had marginal downstaging of disease, fewer examined and fewer positive lymph nodes, and similar overall survival to patients who did not receive neoadjuvant radiation. See Video Abstract . UN ANLISIS EMPAREJADO POR PUNTUACIN DE PROPENSIN DEL IMPACTO DE LA RADIOTERAPIA NEOADYUVANTE EN LOS RESULTADOS DEL CARCINOMA MUCINOSO DE RECTO EN ESTADIO IIIII: ANTECEDENTES:Los pacientes con carcinoma mucinoso de recto tienden a presentarse en estadio avanzado con mal pronóstico.OBJETIVO:Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el efecto de la radioterapia neoadyuvante en los resultados de pacientes con carcinomas mucinosos de recto en estadio II-III utilizando datos de la Base de Datos Nacional del Cáncer.DISEÑO:Análisis retrospectivo de bases de datos nacionales prospectivas.PACIENTES:Pacientes con carcinoma mucinoso de recto.AJUSTE:Base de datos nacional sobre el cáncer entre 2004 y 2019.INTERVENCIÓN:Los pacientes que recibieron o no radioterapia neoadyuvante fueron emparejados utilizando el método de puntuación de propensión del vecino más cercano por edad, estadio clínico, tratamiento sistémico neoadyuvante y tipo de cirugía.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACIÓN:Los principales resultados del estudio fueron el número total de ganglios linfáticos extraídos y positivos, la reducción del estadio de la enfermedad después de la radiación neoadyuvante y la supervivencia general. Otros resultados fueron la estancia hospitalaria, la mortalidad a corto plazo y el reingreso.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron 3.062 pacientes (63,5% hombres) con carcinoma mucinoso de recto estadio II-III, de los cuales 2.378 (77,7%) recibieron radioterapia neoadyuvante. Después de un emparejamiento por puntuación de propensión 2:1, 143 pacientes del grupo sin neoadyuvancia fueron emparejados con 286 del grupo neoadyuvante. La supervivencia global media fue similar (77,3 vs 81,9 meses; p = 0,316). A los pacientes que recibieron radiación neoadyuvante se les diagnosticó con menos frecuencia enfermedad pT3-4 (72,3% frente a 81,3%, p = 0,013) y con mayor frecuencia tenían enfermedad en estadio patológico 0-1 (16,4% frente a 11,2%, p = 0,001), aunque con una enfermedad en estadio III superior (49,7% vs 37,1%, p = 0,001). La radiación neoadyuvante se asoció con menos ganglios linfáticos examinados (mediana: 14 frente a 16, p = 0,036) y ganglios linfáticos positivos que los pacientes que no recibieron radiación neoadyuvante. La mortalidad a corto plazo, el reingreso, la estancia hospitalaria y los márgenes quirúrgicos positivos fueron similares.LIMITACIONES:Estudio retrospectivo y datos faltantes sobre recurrencia de la enfermedad.CONCLUSIONES:Los pacientes con carcinoma mucinoso de recto que recibieron radioterapia neoadyuvante tuvieron una reducción marginal de la enfermedad, menos ganglios linfáticos examinados y positivos, y una supervivencia general similar a la de los pacientes que no recibieron radiación neoadyuvante. (Traducción- Dr Ingrid Melo ).

Surgical outcomes and predictors of overall survival of stage I-III appendiceal adenocarcinoma: Retrospective cohort analysis of the national cancer database.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to determine predictors of overall survival (OS) after surgical treatment of stage I-III appendiceal adenocarcinoma and compare the outcomes of partial colectomy and hemicolectomy. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the U.S. National Cancer Database (NCDB) including patients who underwent surgery for stage I-III appendiceal adenocarcinoma between 2005 and 2019 was conducted. A propensity-score matched analysis was undertaken to compare the outcomes of partial and hemicolectomy and multivariate analysis was performed to determine predictive factors of OS. The main outcome was OS and its independent predictors. RESULTS: 2607 patients (51.6 % male) with a mean age of 61.6 ± 13.9 years were included. 61.7 % of patients underwent hemicolectomy while 31.7 % underwent partial colectomy. After matching, partial colectomy, and hemicolectomy had similar OS (117.3 vs 117.2 months; p = 0.08), positive resection margins, short-term mortality, and 30-day readmission. The hemicolectomy group was associated with more examined lymph nodes and longer hospital stays. Older age (HR: 1.047, p < 0.0001), rural residence area (HR: 3.6, p = 0.025), higher Charlson score (HR: 1.6, p = 0.016), signet-ring cell carcinoma (HR: 2.37, p = 0.009), adjuvant systemic treatment (HR: 1.55, p = 0.015), positive surgical margins (HR: 1.83, p = 0.017), positive lymph nodes number (HR: 1.09, p < 0.0001), and examined lymph nodes number (HR: 0.962, p = 0.001) were independent predictors of OS. CONCLUSIONS: Partial colectomy and hemicolectomy had similar OS and clinical outcomes. Older age, rural residence, higher Charlson score, signet-ring pathology, adjuvant systemic treatment, positive surgical margins, positive lymph node number, and examined lymph node number were independent predictors of OS.

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials on the Prevention and Treatment of Pouchitis after Ileoanal Pouch Anastomosis.

BACKGROUND: This systematic review explored different medications and methods for prevention and treatment of pouchitis after restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA). METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for randomized clinical trials that assessed prevention or treatment of pouchitis. The systematic review was reported in line with updated 2020 PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias in the trials included was assessed using the ROB-2 tool and certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE. The main outcomes were the incidence of new pouchitis episodes in the preventative studies and resolution or improvement of active pouchitis in the treatment studies. RESULTS: Fifteen randomized trials were included. A meta-analysis of 7 trials on probiotics revealed significantly lower odds of pouchitis with the use of probiotics (RR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.16-0.42, I2 = 20%, p < 0.001) and similar odds of adverse effects to placebo (RR: 2.43, 95% CI: 0.11-55.9, I2 = 0, p = 0.579). One trial investigated the prophylactic role of allopurinol in preventing pouchitis and found a comparable incidence of pouchitis in the two groups (31% vs 28%; p = 0.73). Seven trials assessed different treatments for active pouchitis. One recorded the resolution of pouchitis in all patients treated with ciprofloxacin versus 67% treated with metronidazole. Both budesonide enema and oral metronidazole were associated with similar significant improvement in pouchitis (58.3% vs 50%, p = 0.67). Rifaximin, adalimumab, fecal microbiota transplantation, and bismuth carbomer foam enema were not effective in treating pouchitis. CONCLUSIONS: Probiotics are effective in preventing pouchitis after IPAA. Antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin and metronidazole, are likely effective in treating active pouchitis.

Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials on Long-term Outcomes of Surgical Treatment of Perforated Diverticulitis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess long-term outcomes of patients with perforated diverticulitis treated with resection or laparoscopic lavage (LL). BACKGROUND: Surgical treatment of perforated diverticulitis has changed in the last few decades. LL and increasing evidence that primary anastomosis (PRA) is feasible in certain patients have broadened surgical options. However, debate about the optimal surgical strategy lingers. METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for randomized clinical trials (RCT) on surgical treatment of perforated diverticulitis from inception to October 2022. Long-term reports of RCT comparing surgical interventions for the treatment of perforated diverticulitis were selected. The main outcome measures were long-term ostomy, long-term complications, recurrence, and reintervention rates. RESULTS: After screening 2431 studies, 5 long-term follow-up studies of RCT comprising 499 patients were included. Three studies, excluding patients with fecal peritonitis, compared LL and colonic resection, and 2 compared PRA and Hartmann procedures. LL had lower odds of long-term ostomy [odds ratio (OR) = 0.133, 95% CI: 0.278-0.579; P < 0.001] and reoperation (OR = 0.585, 95% CI: 0.365-0.937; P = 0.02) compared with colonic resection but higher odds of diverticular disease recurrence (OR = 5.8, 95% CI: 2.33-14.42; P < 0.001). Colonic resection with PRA had lower odds of long-term ostomy (OR = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.003-0.195; P < 0.001), long-term complications (OR = 0.195, 95% CI: 0.113-0.335; P < 0.001), reoperation (OR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.108-0.384; P < 0.001), and incisional hernia (OR = 0.184, 95% CI: 0.102-0.333; P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in odds of mortality among the procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Long-term follow-up of patients who underwent emergency surgery for perforated diverticulitis showed that LL had lower odds of long-term ostomy and reoperation, but more risk for disease recurrence when compared with resection in purulent peritonitis. Colonic resection with PRA had better long-term outcomes than the Hartmann procedure for fecal peritonitis.

Gracilis Muscle Interposition: A Valuable Tool for the Treatment of Failed Repair of Post-partum Rectovaginal Fistulas-A Single-Center Experience.

INTRODUCTION: Rectovaginal fistulas (RVFs) account for approximately 40% of anorectal complications from obstetrical trauma. Treatment can be challenging requiring multiple surgical repairs. Interposition of healthy transposed tissue (lotus or Martius flap or gracilis muscle) has been used for recurrent RVF. We aimed to review our experience with gracilis muscle interposition (GMI) for post-partum RVF. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent GMI for post-partum RVF from February 1995 to December 2019 was undertaken. Patient demographics, number of prior treatments, comorbidities, tobacco use, postoperative complications, additional procedures, and outcome were assessed. Success was defined as absence of leakage from the repair site after stoma reversal. RESULTS: Six of 119 patients who underwent GMI did so for recurrent post-partum RVF. Median age was 34.2 (28-48) years. All patients had at least 1 previously failed procedure [median: 3 (1-7)] including endorectal advancement flap, fistulotomy, vaginoplasty, mesh interposition, and sphincteroplasty. All patients underwent fecal diversion prior to or at initial procedure. Success was achieved in 4/6 (66.7%) patients; 2 underwent further procedures (1 fistulotomy and 1 rectal flap advancement) for a final 100% success rate as all ileostomies were reversed. Morbidity was reported in 3 (50%) patients, including wound dehiscence, delayed rectoperineal fistula, and granuloma formation in one each, all managed without surgery. There was no morbidity related to stoma closure. CONCLUSIONS: Gracilis muscle interposition is a valuable tool for recurrent post-partum RVF. Our ultimate success rate in this very small series was 100% with a relatively low morbidity rate.

Treatment and outcome trends and predictors of overall survival of rectal melanoma: Analysis of the National Cancer Database.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to assess characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of rectal melanoma (RM). METHODS: This retrospective cohort study looked at patients with RM from National Cancer Database (2004-2019) analyzed characteristics and outcomes of the entire cohort and across three time periods (2004-2009; 2010-2014; 2015-2019). Main outcome measures were change in treatment and survival trends across time periods and overall survival (OS). RESULTS: 641 patients (58.5% female; mean age: 68.2 ± 13.6 years) were included. OS rate was 26%; median survival duration was 17.9 (IQR: 15.93-20.67) months. There was a significant decrease in the use of chemotherapy (17.3%-6.6%; p = 0.001) and surgery (62.9%-41.8%; p = 0.00004) but increased use of immunotherapy (11.9%-52%; p < 0.001) across time periods. OS was longer in the last time period than in the first two (21.8 vs 16.8 vs 16.5 months; p = 0.09). Surgical excision was an independent predictor of improved OS (HR = 0.266, 95%CI: 0.089-0.789, p = 0.017) whereas older age (HR = 1.039, 95%CI: 1.007-1.072, p = 0.016), positive resection margins (HR = 5.06, 95%CI: 1.902-13.48, p = 0.001) and metastasis (HR = 34.62, 95%CI: 3.973-301.6, p = 0.001) were predictors of poor survival. CONCLUSIONS: Over time, chemotherapy and surgery have been used less often in the treatment of RM while the use of immunotherapy increased by more than four-fold. Older age, surgical treatment, positive resection margins, and metastasis were predictive of survival of RM.

Trends in the Characteristics, Treatment, and Outcomes of Rectal Adenocarcinoma in the US From 2004 to 2019: A National Cancer Database Analysis.

Importance: Rectal cancer management has significantly evolved over the last 2 decades. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate trends in the characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of rectal adenocarcinoma across 16 years. Design, Setting, and Participants: This retrospective, observational case series study used data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to evaluate patients diagnosed with rectal adenocarcinoma from 2004 through 2019. Data analysis was performed from March to May 2022. Exposures: Trends in the treatment and outcomes of rectal adenocarcinoma in the US between 2004 and 2019 were explored. This period was subdivided into 4 equal periods: 2004-2007, 2008-2011, 2012-2015, and 2016-2019. Main Outcomes and Measures: Patient and tumor characteristics, treatments, short-term outcomes, and overall survival. Results: A total of 318 548 patients diagnosed with rectal adenocarcinoma were included in the analysis, 191 369 (60.1%) of whom were males and 127 179 (39.9%%) were females. The mean (SD) age of the patients was 63.5 (13.4) years, and 46 824 patients (14.8%) were younger than 50 years. Among the patients, 10 859 (3.4%) were of Asian race and ethnicity, 28 464 (8.9%) were Black, and 271 236 (85.1%) were White. The percentage of patients younger than 50 years who were diagnosed with rectal cancer increased by 1.5%, from 13.9% in period 1 to 15.4% in period 4. Patients in the last period (2016-2019) presented more often with stages III (36.2% vs 30.2% vs 25.0% vs 23.4%; P < .001) and IV (21.5% vs 19.3% vs 18.1% vs 18.6%; P < .001) disease compared with those in the remaining 3 periods. The use of chemotherapy (36.8% vs 48.1% vs 49.1% vs 47.0%; P < .001) and immunotherapy (0.4% vs 0.2% vs 3.5% vs 6.5%; P < .001) significantly increased across the 4 periods. Although neoadjuvant radiotherapy was used more often across the periods studied (28.6% in period 1 to 34.3% in period 4), the use of adjuvant radiotherapy was reduced by half (12.9% to 6.0%). The median (IQR) time from diagnosis to definitive surgery increased from 95 (15-126) days in period 1 to 128 (47-158) days in period 4. The rate of use of open surgery decreased by half (60.1% in period 2 to 30.1% in period 4), and the use of robotic surgery significantly increased (5.2% in period 2 to 28.4% in period 4). The conversion rate was significantly reduced (11.2% in period 2 to 7.3% in period 4) and the median (IQR) hospital stay decreased by 2 days, from 6 (3-9) days to 4 (2-7) days. The median (IQR) overall survival significantly increased across the periods (from 83.1 months [95% CI, 81.8-84.6 months] in period 1 to 92.1 months [95% CI, 90.2-93.6 months] in period 3; P < .001). Conclusion and Relevance: The findings of this case series study suggest a treatment trend of increased use of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, sphincter-saving surgery, and minimally invasive surgery. In addition, the time between diagnosis and definitive surgery increased by a median of 33 days. This treatment trend was associated with a significant improvement in the overall survival, reduction in the conversion rate by 3.9%, and a 2-day shorter hospital stay. These findings have major clinical relevance to the management of rectal cancer. The improvements seen in short-term outcomes and survival of patients diagnosed with rectal cancer can probably be attributed to the treatment trends observed. Continued improvement in outcomes warrant further updates in treatments.

Concordance between clinical and pathologic assessment of T and N stages of rectal adenocarcinoma patients who underwent surgery without neoadjuvant therapy: A National Cancer Database analysis.

BACKGROUND: Clinical assessment of T and N stages in rectal cancer is important to guide decision-making. The present study aimed to assess the accuracy of the clinical T and N staging of rectal cancer compared to the pathological staging and their overall agreement in a large cohort of patients. METHODS: This retrospective study used data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB) between 2004 and 2017. Patients with non-metastatic rectal adenocarcinoma who did not receive neoadjuvant therapy were reviewed and the clinical T and N stages were compared to their pathologic counterparts. The overall concordance between clinical and pathologic assessments was calculated using Kappa coefficient. RESULTS: The study included 8929 patients (57.3% male) with a mean age of 64 years. Clinical T stage and N stage were identical to pathologic stages in 70.3% and 77.6% of patients, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of the clinical assessment of N stage was 35.2% and 95.5%, respectively. Concordance between the clinical and pathologic stages was moderate for the T stage (kappa = 0.575) and fair for the N stage (kappa = 0.346). Pathologic T4 stage (OR: 2.12, p < 0.0001), poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma (OR: 1.45, p = 0.026), lymphovascular invasion (OR: 4.5, p < 0.001), and longer time from diagnosis to first treatment (OR = 0.996, p = 0.046) were the independent predictors of N stage discrepancy. CONCLUSIONS: There was a moderate agreement between the clinical and pathologic T stages and a fair agreement between the clinical and pathologic N stages. The clinical assessment of the N stage was highly specific yet had low sensitivity.

A National Cancer Database analysis of the predictors of unplanned 30-day readmission after proctectomy for rectal adenocarcinoma: The CCF RETURN-30 Score.

BACKGROUND: Unplanned 30-day readmission is common after major surgery, including rectal cancer surgery. The present study aimed to assess the rate and predictors of unplanned 30-day readmission after proctectomy for rectal cancer. METHODS: This was a retrospective case-control study using data from the National Cancer Database. Patients with non-metastatic rectal cancer who underwent proctectomy were included, and patients who required readmission within 30 days after discharge were compared to patients who were not readmitted in regard to patient and treatment baseline factors to determine the predictors of 30-day readmission after proctectomy. The main outcome measures were the rate and predictors of 30-day unplanned readmission and the impact of readmission on short-term mortality and overall survival. RESULTS: A total of 55,181 patients (60.9% men) with a mean age of 61.2 years were included. The 30-day readmission rate was 7.07% (95% confidence interval: 6.9-7.3). A Charlson score of 0 (odds ratio: 0.75, P < .001), Medicare insurance (odds ratio: 0.836, P = .04), and private insurance (odds ratio: 0.73, P = .0003) were predictive of a lower likelihood of 30-day readmission, whereas urban living area (odds ratio: 1.18, P = .01), rural living area (odds ratio: 1.65%, P = .0004), neoadjuvant radiation therapy (odds ratio: 1.37, P = .001), pull-through coloanal anastomosis (odds ratio: 1.37, P = .0005), conversion to open surgery (odds ratio: 1.25, P = .001), and hospital stay ≥6 days (odds ratio: 1.02, P < .001) were predictive of a higher likelihood of 30-day readmission. Readmitted patients had a higher rate of 90-day mortality (3.1% vs 2.1%, P < .001) and a lower 5-year overall survival (67.0% vs 72.7%, P < .001) than non-readmitted patients. Using the weighted ORs of the significant predictors of 30-day readmission, a risk score, the Cleveland Clinic Florida REadmission afTer sUrgery for Rectal caNcer in 30 days (RETURN-30) score, was developed. CONCLUSION: Comorbidities, residence in urban or rural areas, neoadjuvant radiation therapy, pull-through coloanal anastomosis, conversion to open surgery, and extended hospital stay were predictive of a higher risk of 30-day readmission. Patients who were readmitted had a higher rate of 90-day mortality and a lower 5-year overall survival.

Outcomes of laparoscopic versus robotic-assisted resection of T4 rectal cancer: propensity score-matched analysis of a national cancer database.

BACKGROUND: T4 rectal cancer is a challenging condition owing to the highly invasive nature of the tumour that may compromise R0 resection. The present study aimed to assess the outcomes of laparoscopic versus robotic-assisted resection of non-metastatic T4 rectal adenocarcinoma. METHODS: This was a retrospective propensity score-matched analysis using the National Cancer Database between 2010 and 2019. Patients with pathological T4 non-metastatic rectal adenocarcinoma who underwent laparoscopic or robotic-assisted resection were compared and a propensity score-matched analysis was performed in a 1:1 manner. The main outcome measures were conversion to open surgery, mortality, readmission, resection margins, and overall survival. RESULTS: After propensity score matching, 235 patients were included in each group. There were 260 (55.3 per cent) men and 210 (44.7 per cent) women, with a mean (s.d.) age of 61 (13.2) years. Patients in the robotic group had a statistically significantly lower conversion rate (8.9 per cent versus 17.9 per cent; P = 0.006), shorter median duration of hospital stay (5 versus 6 days; P = 0.007), higher overall survival rate (56.2 per cent versus 43.4 per cent; P = 0.007), and a longer median survival (60.8 versus 43.2; P = 0.025). There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to positive resection margins, examined lymph nodes, 30-day and 90-day mortality rates, and 30-day readmission rate. CONCLUSIONS: Robotic resections of T4 rectal cancer were associated with a significantly lower conversion rate and shorter duration of hospital stay than laparoscopic resections. The two approaches were comparable with regard to positive resection margins, short-term mortality, and readmission.

Gracilis muscle interposition for complex perineal fistulas: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature.

AIM: Complex perineal fistulas (CPFs) are among the most challenging problems in colorectal practice. Various procedures have been used to treat CPFs, with none being a panacea. Our study aimed to assess the overall success and complication rates after gracilis muscle interposition in patients with CPF. METHOD: PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched until January 2022 according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies including children <18 years or <10 patients were excluded, as well as reviews, duplicate or animal studies, studies with poor documentation (no report of success rate) and non-English text. An open-source, cross-platform software for advanced meta-analysis openMeta [Analyst]™ version 12.11.14 and Cochrane Review Manager 5.4® were used to conduct the meta-analysis of data. RESULTS: Twenty-five studies published between 2002 and 2021 were identified. The studies included 658 patients (409 women). Most patients had rectovaginal (50.7%) or rectourethral fistulas (33.7%). The most common causes of CPF were pelvic surgery (29.4%) and inflammatory bowel disease (25.2%). A history of radiotherapy was reported in approximately 18% of the patients. 498 (75.7%) patients with CPF achieved complete healing after gracilis muscle interposition. The weighted mean rate of success of the gracilis interposition procedure was 79.4% (95% CI 73.8%-85%, I2  = 75.3%), the weighted mean short-term complication rate was 25.7% (95% CI 18.1-33.2, I2  = 84.1%) and the weighted mean rate for 30-day reoperation was 3.6% (95% CI 1.6-5.6, I2  = 42%). The weighted mean rate of fistula recurrence was 16.7% (95% CI 11%-22.3%, I2  = 61%). CONCLUSION: The gracilis muscle interposition technique is a viable treatment option for CPF. Surgeons should be familiar with indications and techniques to offer it as an option for patients. Given the relatively infrequent use of the operation, referral rather than performance of graciloplasty is an acceptable option.

Outcomes of Local Excision Compared to Radical Excision of Rectal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: A Propensity-Score Matched Analysis of the NCDB.

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) account for <1% of gastrointestinal cancers. The present study aimed to assess the outcomes of local and radical excision of non-metastatic rectal GISTs. METHODS: This study was a retrospective cohort analysis of patients with non-metastatic rectal GISTs in the NCDB. Patients were divided according to the surgical approach into local and radical excision and were compared in regard to the baseline characteristics and outcomes. A propensity-score matched analysis was performed to match the two groups for baseline confounders. The main outcomes were 5-year overall survival (OS), surgical margins, hospital stay, short-term mortality, and readmission. RESULTS: 228 patients (54.8% male) with rectal GISTs were included. Before matching, 127 (55.7%) patients underwent local excision and 101 (44.3%) had radical excision. Patients who underwent local excision had more cT1-T2 and low-grade GISTs whereas patients who had radical excision received more neoadjuvant systemic treatment. After matching for clinical T stage, tumor grade, and neoadjuvant systemic therapy, 52 patients were included in each group. Local excision had a significantly higher rate of positive resection margins (42.2% vs. 19.1%, p = 0.02) and a shorter hospital stay (0 vs. 3 days, p < 0.001) than radical excision. The two groups had similar mean OS (139.8 vs. 133.1 months, p = 0.52). CONCLUSIONS: Local excision was associated with a significantly higher incidence of positive resection margins and shorter hospital stay, yet similar overall survival to radical excision.

Risk factors and predictors of 30-day complications and conversion to open surgery after repeat ileocolic resection of Crohn's disease.

BACKGROUND: Repeat ileocolic resection of Crohn's disease (CD) is a challenging procedure that can be followed by a high rate of complications. The present study aimed to identify the factors associated with complications and conversion to open surgery in patients undergoing repeat ileocolic resection for CD. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of an IRB-approved prospective database of CD patients who underwent elective repeat ileocolic resection between 2011 and 2021. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the predictive factors of postoperative complications and conversion to open surgery. RESULTS: The present study included 65 patients (47.7% male) with a mean age of 52.5 years. 43.1% of patients developed short-term complications, most of which were of Clavien-Dindo class I-II. Longer operative time was found to be an independent predictor of complications (OR 1.016, p = 0.014). The preoperative use of biological therapy was an independent protective factor from complications (OR 0.243, p = 0.016). The only significant risk factor of a longer operation time was higher BMI (OR 3.11, p = 0.044). Overall, 28.1% of laparoscopic procedures were converted to laparotomy. According to bivariate analysis, previous ileocolic open resection (OR 190, p < 0.0001), longer operation time (OR 1.01; p = 0.036), and takedown of incidental fistula of incidental fistula (OR 3.78, p = 0.04) were associated with higher odds of conversion to open surgery. CONCLUSION: Longer operation time was significantly associated with and predictive of complications after repeat ileocolic resection of CD. Preoperative biological therapy was predictive of a lower rate of complications. Previous ileocolic resection by laparotomy, longer operation time, and takedown of fistula were associated with a higher likelihood of conversion to open surgery.

Financial and Inpatient Burden of Adhesion-Related Small Bowel Obstruction: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative adhesions may occur after >90% of laparotomies and is the most common cause of small bowel obstruction (SBO). Despite the high incidence, there is a lack of data related to financial implications of adhesion-related SBO (ASBO). This systematic literature review of in-hospital costs for treatment of ASBO searched PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases according to PRISMA guidelines. Exclusion criteria were reviews, editorials, clinical vignettes, studies of patients <18 years of age, studies with no English full text and studies assessing adhesiolysis for causes other than SBO or that used extrapolations with economic models. Main outcome measures were financial costs per patient and national costs. RESULTS: Seven studies, published between 1999 and 2016, incorporating a total of 39 573 patients, were identified. Four were undertaken in European countries, one in the USA, 1 in New Zealand and 1 in Nigeria. Overall national costs regarding treatment of patients with ASBO ranged between $3.468 million and $1.77 billion. Median overall cost in the medical management group was $2371.5 ($1814-$2568) vs $12370 ($4914-$25321) in the surgical group. Median length of stay was 4 (3-7) days for patients conservatively treated and 11.5 (8-16.3) days for patients who underwent surgery. Median length of stay of operated patients on was almost triple that of patients conservatively managed. CONCLUSIONS: Given the major financial implications of ASBO, further initiatives are needed to avoid operations for SBO when clinically appropriate and minimize delays taking patients with high suspicion of complete SBO to the operating room.

Assessment of mesorectal fascia status in MRI compared with circumferential resection margin after total mesorectal excision and predictors of involved margins.

BACKGROUND: Circumferential resection margin is an important prognosticator for total mesorectal excision outcome. We investigated the status of mesorectal fascia on magnetic resonance imaging compared with circumferential resection margin on pathology and factors associated with status change. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of a prospective database of rectal cancer patients who underwent surgery. Mesorectal fascia status on magnetic resonance imaging done before neoadjuvant therapy and circumferential resection margin status on pathology were compared. The study outcomes were factors associated with a margin status conversion between magnetic resonance imaging and pathology, and predictors of involved circumferential resection margin. RESULTS: In total, 244 patients (average follow-up of 25.4 months) were included. Eighty-one (33.2%) patients had potentially involved mesorectal fascia in magnetic resonance imaging and 12 (4.9%) had involved circumferential resection margin in pathology. A total of 2.8% of patients had a conversion of clear mesorectal fascia in magnetic resonance imaging to involved circumferential resection margin. Abdominoperineal resection was significantly associated with this status change (odds ratio: 25, 95% confidence interval: 2.4-255.8, P = .007). In total, 7.4% of patients with potentially involved mesorectal fascia had persistently involved circumferential resection margin. Lack of total neoadjuvant therapy was associated with higher, yet statistically insignificant, odds of persistently involved circumferential resection margin (odds ratio: 12, 95% confidence interval: 0.65-220.8, P = .09). The significant independent predictors of involved circumferential resection margin were body mass index (odds ratio: 1.2, P = .016) and abdominoperineal resection (odds ratio: 4.22, P = .04). CONCLUSION: Change of clear mesorectal fascia in magnetic resonance imaging to an involved circumferential resection margin in pathology was recorded in 2.8% of patients; abdominoperineal resection might be associated with this change. Approximately 7% of patients had persistent involvement of circumferential resection margin as determined by pathology. Omission of total neoadjuvant therapy might be associated with persistent margin involvement.

When Is a Diverting Stoma Indicated after Low Anterior Resection? A Meta-analysis of Randomized Trials and Meta-Regression of the Risk Factors of Leakage and Complications in Non-Diverted Patients.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leak (AL) is a potentially life-threatening complication after low anterior resection (LAR). This meta-analysis aimed to compare outcomes of LAR with and without diverting stoma and to determine factors associated with AL in non-diverted patients. METHODS: This was a PRISMA-compliant systematic review of electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science). Randomized controlled trials comparing LAR with and without diverting stoma were included. Main outcome measures were AL, complications, and operation time in the two groups and risk factors of AL in non-diverted patients. RESULTS: Nine randomized control trials (RCTs) (946 patients; 53.2% male) were included. The diverting stoma group had lower odds of complications (OR: 0.61, 95%CI: 0.461-0.828; p < 0.001), AL (OR: 0.362, 95%CI: 0.236-0.555; p < 0.001, I2 = 0), abscess (OR: 0.392, 95%CI: 0.174-0.883; p < 0.024, I2 = 0), and reoperation (OR: 0.352, 95%CI: 0.222-0.559, p < 0.001, I2 = 0) than the no-diversion group. Both groups had comparable odds of bowel obstruction, surgical site infection, and perioperative mortality. The weighted mean operation time in the diverting stoma group was longer than the no-diversion group (WMD: 34.804, 95%CI: 14.649-54.960, p < 0.001). Factors significantly associated with AL in non-diverted patients were higher body mass index (BMI), ASA ≥ 3, lower tumor height, neoadjuvant therapy, open surgery, end-to-end anastomosis, and longer operation time. CONCLUSIONS: Non-diverted patients with increased body mass index, high American Society of Anesthesiologists scores, low rectal cancers, received neoadjuvant therapy, underwent open surgery, end-to-end anastomosis, and longer operation times were at a higher risk of AL after LAR.