Preliminary results of Polish national multicenter study on colostomy reversal - LICO (Liquidation of Colostomy) study.

Introduction: Creation of colostomy is still a commonly performed procedure in emergency settings, when intestinal anastomosis cannot be performed safely. Reversing a stoma has been linked with high rates of morbidity and also mortality. Aim: The primary goal of the study was to identify the risk of postoperative complications in patients undergoing colostomy liquidation. The secondary goal was to assess perioperative care parameters. Material and methods: The LIquidation of COlostomy (LICO) study is an open multicenter prospective cohort study that began in October 2022 and will continue until December 2023. Data from 20 Polish surgical departments were collected. Overall 45 patients were reported over the initial 3 months; based on that group we performed a preliminary analysis. Results: Mean operative time was 163 min. Patients were operated on by specialists in 93.3% of cases. Complications occurred in 15 (33.3%) patients. Wound infection was the most common complication (17.8%). In 3 (6.7%) cases anastomotic leakage was diagnosed, and in 2 of those cases reoperation was required. The overall mortality rate was 2.2%. The mean length of hospital stay was 10.1 days. Preoperative fasting was used in 53.3% of patients, and the mechanical bowel preparation rate was 75.6%. Only in 8.9% of cases was laparoscopic access used for stoma reversal, and only in 1 out of 45 cases was mesh used for incisional peristomal hernia prophylactics. The stoma site was closed by single sutures in 73.3%, and negative pressure assisted closure was performed in 6.7% of patients. Conclusions: Colostomy liquidation is associated with significant morbidity and minor mortality in the Polish population. Standardized perioperative care should be established for stoma reversal surgery.

Comparison of revisional surgeries after OAGB versus RYGB: Results from the multicenter Polish Revision Obesity Surgery Study (PROSS).

<br><b>Introduction:</b> Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a leading bariatric surgery globally. One-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB), a modification of RYGB, ranks as the third most common bariatric procedure in Poland. While clinical trials show that OAGB outcomes are comparable to those of RYGB regarding weight loss, remission of comorbidities, and hormonal impact, there is limited data on long-term outcomes and complications.</br><br><b>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to compare the outcomes of revisional surgeries conducted after OAGB <i>versus</i> RYGB.</br> <br><b>Material and methods:</b> This retrospective study analyzed patients undergoing revisional bariatric surgeries from January 2010 to January 2020 across 12 Polish centers. The inclusion criteria were an age of at least 18 years and prior OAGB or RYGB surgery. Those with incomplete primary surgery data and follow-up post-revision were excluded. Data were collected regarding parameters for anthropometrics, comorbidities, and perioperative details. The patients were categorized based on their initial surgery: OAGB or RYGB. The primary endpoints were the reasons for and types of revisional surgery and weight changes; the secondary endpoints were postoperative complications and length of hospital stay (LOS).</br> <br><b>Results:</b> In total, 27 patients participated, with a mean age of 38.18 7 years. Differences between the OAGB (13 patients) and RYGB (14 patients) groups included median initial body weight (100 kg <i>vs.</i> 126 kg, p<0.016), number of postoperative complications (9 <i>vs.</i> 3, p = 0.021), and median LOS (3 <i>vs.</i> 4.5 days, p = 0.03). GERD was the primary reason for OAGB revisions (69.2%), whereas insufficient weight loss led to the most RYGB revisions (42.9%).</br><br><b>Conclusions:</b> The RYGB patients commonly needed revisions due to weight issues, whereas reoperations in the OAGB patients were conducted due to postoperative complications. The postoperative complications and LOS were similar between the groups.</br> <br><b>The importance of research for the development of the field:</b> The results may influence clinical surgeons' choice of surgical technique.</br>.

Preliminary results of Polish national multicenter LILEO study on ileostomy reversal.

<b><br>Introduction:</b> Ileostomy reversal is a common surgical procedure and currently standardized perioperative and surgical protocols are lacking.</br> <b><br>Aim:</b> LILEO study was designed to perform a multicenter analysis on numerous perioperative parameters and estimation of the incidence of postoperative complications.</br> <b><br>Materials and methods:</b> The study is an open multicenter prospective cohort study. Preliminary results of the LILEO study after 3 months were available from 18 Polish surgical centers comprising full data of 59 patients who underwent ileostomy reversal.</br> <b><br>Results:</b> Parameters such as preoperative care, surgical technique, postoperative course and complications were analyzed. Preoperative fasting was used in 49.1% of patients. Fifty nine percent of anastomosis were handsewn and in 72.9% of patients had primary single suture wound closure. Mean length of hospital stay was 7.9 days (min 2 days, max 26 days). Complications occurred overall in 20 patients (33.9%). In 11.9% of patient's complications had grade III A/B in Clavien-Dindo classification.</br> <b><br>Discussion:</b> The perioperative care in the group of patients undergoing ileostomy reversal still lacks standardized and optimized treatment.</br> <b><br>Conclusions:</b> Ileostomy removal is a procedure with high risk of postoperative complications. Standardization of perioperative care based on further multicenter national study could result in a decrease of complications rate.</br>.

Effect of preoperative intragastric balloon treatment on perioperative and postoperative outcomes after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: A retrospective cohort study.

<b><br>Introduction:</b> Intragastric balloon (IGB) insertion is used as a bridging therapy in patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 50 kg/m2 . We arranged a retrospective study to evaluate whether pre-operative IGB treatment influences perioperative and postoperative weight loss outcomes after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and especially to evaluate the impact of post - IGB percentage of excessive weight loss (%EWL) on postoperative %EWL.</br> <b><br>Materials and methods:</b> Patients who underwent IGB placement followed by laparoscopic SG were divided into the following groups considering %EWL after IGB: Group 1 <=10.38%; Group 2 >10.38% and <=17.27%; Group 3 >17.27% and <=24.86%; Group 4 >24.86%. 1 year after SG data were collected. The following parameters were compared between groups: operative time, total blood loss, length of stay and weight, BMI, percentage of total weight loss (%TWL), %EWL.</br> <b><br>Results:</b> There were no statistically significant differences between groups in perioperative results. Post-SG %EWL was the highest in intermediate groups: 2 and 3. Post-treatment results were observed: body weight and BMI were the lowest in Group 4 and the highest in Group 1. Post-treatment %EWL was the highest in Group 4, the lowest in Group 1 and grew gradually in subsequent groups.</br> <b><br>Discussion:</b> The study confirmed the impact of weight loss on IGB on postoperative results. The study showed that %EWL after the IGB treatment influences %EWL after SG and most of all affects definitive %EWL after two-stage treatment and it could be a foreshadowing factor of these outcomes.</br> <b><br>Importance:</b> The importance of research for the development of the field %EWL after IGB influences the final BMI and final weight, which means that patients with the greatest %EWL after IGB are more likely to have the greatest postoperative weight loss and overall weight loss.</br>.

Early adoption of laparoscopic liver surgery in Poland: a national retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The need for safe and efficient dissemination of minimally invasive approach in liver surgery is among the current challenges for hepatobiliary surgeons. After the stage of innovators and pioneers, the following countries should adopt a laparoscopic approach. The aim of this study was to assess the national experience and trend in implementing laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) in Poland. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A national registry of LLR performed in Poland was established in June 2020. All LLR cases performed before were included retrospectively, followed by prospectively collected new cases. Baseline characteristics, preoperative and intraoperative data, short-term results and long-term follow-up were recorded. RESULTS: Since 2010 up to the end of 2022 there were 718 LLRs performed in Poland. The national rate of laparoscopic approach has gradually increased since 2017 ( P <0.001), reaching the rate of 11.7% in 2022. There were 443 (61.7%), 107 (14.9%), and 168 (23.4%) LLRs performed in accordance to increasing grades of difficulty. The move towards more demanding cases had an increasing trend over the years ( P <0.001). Total intraoperative adverse event and postoperative severe complications rates were estimated for 13.5% ( n =97) and 6.7% ( n =48), respectively. 30-day reoperation, readmission and postoperative mortality rates were 3.6% ( n =26), 2.8% ( n =20), and 0.8% ( n =6), respectively. While the R0 resection margin was assessed in 643 (89.6%) cases, the total textbook outcomes (TO) were achieved in 525 (74.5%) cases. Overcoming the learning curve of 60 LLRs, resulted in an increasing TO rate from 72.3 to 80.6% ( P =0.024). CONCLUSIONS: It is the first national analysis of a laparoscopic approach in liver surgery in Poland. An increasing trend of minimizing invasiveness in liver resection has been observed. Responsible selection of cases in accordance with difficulty may provide results within global benchmark values and textbook outcomes already during the learning curve.

Is triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cell 1 (TREM-1) protein a new marker of serious infectious complications in colorectal surgery?: case-matched pilot study.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cell 1 (TREM-1) protein as a marker for serious infectious complications during laparoscopic colorectal surgery. METHODS: Sixty-four patients with colon or rectal cancer, who underwent an elective laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery from November 2018 to February 2020, were included in the analysis. Blood samples of the TREM-1 protein testing were collected four times from each patient: before and on three following postoperative days (PODs). Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of infectious complications. Subsequently, patients with infectious complications (group 1) were matched 1:1 with patients without complications (group 2). The case-matched analysis was done by selecting patients from the control group by age, ASA scale, cancer stage, and type of surgery. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in demographic and operative characteristics between the two groups. The median length of hospital stay was longer in group 1 than in group 2 (11 days vs. 5 days, p < 0.001). Preoperative measurements of TREM-1 protein did not differ between the two groups. There were no significant differences in the measurements on the first and third postoperative days. However, the median TREM-1 measurement was higher in group 1 on the second postoperative day (542 pg/ml vs. 399 pg/ml; p = 0.040). The difference was more apparent when only severe postoperative complications were considered. When compared to the group without any complications, the median TREM-1 level was significantly higher in the group with severe infection complications in POD 1, POD 2, and POD 3 (p < 0.05). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrated that TREM-1 readings in POD 2 had a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 84% for the presence of severe infection complications at a value of 579.3 pg/ml (AUC 0.8, 95%CI 0.65-0.96). CONCLUSION: TREM-1 measurements might become a helpful predictive marker in the early diagnosis of serious infectious complications in patients following laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Revisional bariatric procedures in the group of patients over 60 years of age: a multicenter cohort study (PROSS Study).

Introduction: The constantly increasing prevalence of obesity in the population and the lengthening of life expectancy affect the appearance of the problem of pathological obesity also in the elderly. At the same time, an increase in the number of bariatric procedures (also revisional) performed in elderly patients is observed. Aim: To assess the indications for revisional bariatric procedures along with the safety and postoperative results in the group of patients over 60 years of age. Material and methods: The study was conducted in 2019-2020 among patients undergoing revisional bariatric procedures in Polish bariatric centers. The data were obtained through a multicenter, observational retrospective study. Results: Our data consist of 55 (8.1%) patients older than 60 years of age who underwent revisional bariatric procedures. Revisional procedures in the group of patients over 60 years of age had fewer postoperative complications (16.4% vs. 23.1%, p < 0.05). Remission of type II diabetes or arterial hypertension was achieved to a lesser extent in patients operated on over the age of 60 (13% and 15%, respectively) compared to patients operated on under the age of 60 (47% and 34%, respectively; p < 0.05). Conclusions: Revisional bariatric procedures in the group of patients over 60 years of age do not cause an increased risk of postoperative complications or prolonged hospital stay. The possibility of achieving remission or improvement in the treatment of comorbidities in patients operated on over 60 years of age is relatively lower compared to a younger group.

Predicting complications following bariatric surgery: the diagnostic accuracy of available tools.

BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery is effective and safe obesity treatment. Obesity-related co-morbidities contribute to higher postoperative morbidity. Assessment of possible outcomes seems to be crucial in the qualification process and perioperative care. Recently, various tools predicting complications after bariatric surgery have been proposed. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to validate the performance of available diagnostic algorithms as the predictors of 30-day complications after bariatric procedures. SETTING: Department of General Surgery, University Hospital, Poland. METHODS: The literature review was done to identify available risk prediction models. The analysis included patients after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy (SG). The probability of postoperative complications was calculated for each patient. The assessed endpoints were general and severe morbidity stratified with Clavien-Dindo classification. The relationship between predicted and observed outcomes was assessed by logistic regression. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves and Hosmer-Lemeshow test. RESULTS: Out of 1329 patients, 65.31% were women with a mean body mass index of 45 kg/m2. The majority of patients underwent SG (75.02%). The most common co-morbidities were as follows: dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes. General morbidity reached 8.43%, whereas severe morbidity was 2.78%. We identified 10 eligible models. Only Gupta and Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) calculators presented a significant association with any and severe complications and reached acceptable accuracy in predicting severe complications. None of the models achieved sufficient discrimination in predicting general morbidity. All models remained well-fitted. CONCLUSIONS: MBSAQIP and Gupta's calculators seem to be helpful in the assessment of severe complications after bariatric surgery. Further studies should focus on improving the predictive accuracy of existing models.

Impact of Intragastric Balloon Placement on the Stomach Wall: A Prospective Cohort Study.

PURPOSE: Endoscopic intragastric balloon (IGB) placement is a minimally invasive treatment for morbid obesity that is sometimes used as a preparatory step before surgical intervention. This study was performed to analyze the changes in the stomach wall induced by IGB placement, with particular emphasis on pathomorphology, inflammatory markers, and tissue growth factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In total, 30 patients with morbid obesity were prospectively analyzed. A total of 16 patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 53 kg/m2 underwent two-stage treatment comprising IGB placement followed by laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) (IGB group), while 14 patients underwent one-stage LSG (non-IGB group). The gastric specimens removed during LSG were examined. The two groups were compared regarding the surgical results, microscopic structure and inflammatory process exponents of the stomach wall, and receptors for selected tissue growth factors. RESULTS: The IGB group had a longer median hospital stay than that of the non-IGB group. Compared with the non-IGB group, the IGB group had a thicker stomach wall, more submucosal fibrosis, and increased amounts of growth factors and inflammatory markers. CONCLUSION: Patients with IGB placement before LSG showed greater changes in the stomach wall than those of patients who received LSG alone. IGB placement was associated with stomach muscle layer thickening, submucosal fibrosis, and increased levels of inflammatory markers and tissue growth factors.

Time-extended exposure of gastric epithelial cells to secretome of Helicobacter pylori-activated fibroblasts induces reprogramming of gastric epithelium towards pre-cancerogenic and pro-invasive phenotype.

Despite of the improvement in gastric cancer (GC) therapies patients still suffer from cancer recurrence and metastasis. Recently, the high ratio of these events combined with increased chemoresistance has been related to the asymptomatic Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infections. The limited efficiency of GC treatment strategies is also increasingly attributed to the activity of tumor stroma with the key role of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). In order to investigate the influence of Hp infection within stromal gastric tissue on cancer initiation and progression, we have exposed normal gastric epithelial cells to long-term influence of Hp-activated gastric fibroblast secretome. We have referred obtained results to this secretome influence on cancer cell lines. The invasive properties of cells were checked by time-lapse video microscopy and basement membrane assays. The expression of invasion-related factors was checked by RT-PCR, Western Blot, immunofluorescence and Elisa. Hp-activated gastric fibroblast secretome induced EMT type 3-related shifts of RGM1 cell phenotype; in particular it augmented their motility, cytoskeletal plasticity and invasiveness. These effects were accompanied by Snail1/Twist activation, the up-regulation of cytokeratin19/FAP/TNC/Integrin-ß1 and MMPs, and by the induction of cMethigh/pEGFRhigh phenotype. Mechanistic studies suggest that this microevolution next to TGFß relies also on c-Met/EGFR signaling interplay and engages HGF-Integrin-Ras-dependent Twist activation leading to MMP and TNC upregulation with subsequent positive auto- and paracrine feedback loops intensifying this process. Similar shifts were detected in cancer cells exposed to this secretome. Collectively, we show that the secretome of Hp-infected fibroblasts induces reprogramming/microevolution of epithelial and cancer cells towards type 3 EMT-related invasive phenotype in a manner reciprocally reliant next to TGFß on cMet/Integrin-ß1/p-EGFR-dependent axis. Apparently, the phenotypical plasticity of Hp-activated fibroblast reprogrammed gastric epithelial cells determines their susceptibility to the pro-invasive signaling, which results in re-organization of gastric niches and provides the cues for GC promotion/progression.

Impact of Vagotomy on Postoperative Weight Loss, Alimentary Intake, and Enterohormone Secretion After Bariatric Surgery in Experimental Translational Models.

Obesity may be treated by bariatric procedures and is related to enterohormone release modulation. Nevertheless, a majority of commonly used surgical procedures have a significant impact on vagus nerve function by breaking the connections with its gastric branches. In the case of an intragastric balloon (BAL), this interaction is unclear. However, BAL-induced weight reduction is not long-lasting. Interestingly, this method has not been used in combination with vagotomy (VAG). Thus, we evaluated, for the first time, the short- and long-term effects of combined BAL and VAG using the animal-based translational model and compared these effects with sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Wistar rats were fed a high-calorie diet for 8 weeks to induce obesity before SG, RYGB, BAL + / - VAG. Animals' weight and eating behaviors were monitored weekly. After 90 days, serum samples were collected to evaluate postprandial and fasting GLP-1, GIP, PYY, ghrelin, glucagon, insulin, leptin, and pancreatic polypeptide concentrations by fluorescent assay. VAG, SG, RYGB, and BAL + VAG significantly reduced body weight 30 and 90 days after surgery. BAL alone induced temporal weight reduction observed after 30 days, reversed after 90 days. Calories intake was reduced at the first half of the observation period in all groups. Fluid intake was reduced in all groups except SG and BAL. Enterohormone profile for BAL + VAG was comparable to SG and RYGB but not BAL. VAG and BAL + VAG but not BAL alone maintain weight reduction, alimentary intake changes, and enterohormone release after long-term observation. VAG may improve the effectiveness of bariatric procedures for obesity treatment in clinical practice.

Bioactive compounds from Lactarius deterrimus interfere with the invasive potential of gastric cancer cells.

Stomach cancer is the 4th most common cancer diagnosed worldwide. Despite intensive research on its etiopathology, its treatment strategies have not changed in the last 50 years. Mushrooms have recently attracted much attention as the source of bioactive compounds that can potentially complement cancer therapies. Here, we extracted a phenolic fraction from Lactarius deterrimus and analyzed its composition and bioactivity against the gastric cancer (AGS) cells. The complexity of L. deterrimus compounds was revealed by an HPLC assay, and was accompanied by cytostatic, cytotoxic and anti-invasive effects of the L. deterrimus extract (LDE). These are illustrated by inhibition of the AGS cells' proliferation, metabolic activity and motility, and by induction of the cytoskeleton rearrangements. Apparently, these effects are exerted via activation of intracellular oxidative stress and decreased ATP production in AGS cells that could not be compensated by induction of autophagy. Less severe LDE effects were seen on physiology of normal gastric fibroblasts; however, inhibition of their motility indicates that LDE can interfere with gastric cancer development via an effect on stromal cells. Along with the observed synergy of LDE and cisplatin/5-fluorouracil effects on AGS cells, our data show the potential of LDE for supplementation of the gastric cancer therapy.

Postoperative Olfaction Alteration Following Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Bariatric surgery is an effective method of treatment for morbid obesity that is known to change nutritional habits. Proper nutrition has an impact on postoperative recovery and outcomes. Diet preferences depend on flavour and olfaction stimuli. Some studies show long-term changes in the sense of smell after bariatric surgery, but little research has addressed olfactory function shortly after surgery. Observations of olfactory changes that occur immediately after bariatric surgery may lead to improvements in postoperative care. AIM: The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of bariatric surgery on olfactory changes in the short postoperative period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a prospective study of patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) between April 2018 and December 2018. The control group consists of patients who underwent various non-oncological elective surgical procedures. Patients' olfaction was tested qualitatively and quantitatively the day before and 24 h after surgery. Sniffin Sticks test consists of three subtests: odor threshold, discrimination, and identification. RESULTS: The study enrolled 83 patients (LSG = 39; LRYGB = 14; control = 30). Mean scores in the threshold subtest differed significantly in the bariatric group, 9.3 ± 3.9 before the surgery and 8.2 ± 3.0 a day after the surgery (p = 0.032). There were no significant differences between scores from the discrimination subtest, identification subtest and the mean total scores in the bariatric group. There was no observed change in the intensity of the smell in the control group. Analyzing the results of patients undergoing LSG and LRYGB separately, we only showed significant differences in the case of LSG. Mean score from the 1st test (9.12 ± 3.97 vs. 7.75 ± 2.98; p = 0.0339) and mean total score (32.83 ± 5.45 vs. 30.67 ± 4.88; p = 0.0173) differ between repetitive measurements in LSG patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows deterioration of odor threshold in the bariatric surgery group compared to the control group 24 h after surgery. However, this change occurred only in patients undergoing LSG.

Immunonutrition Changes Inflammatory Response in Colorectal Cancer: Results from a Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial.

INTRODUCTION: Surgery is the first choice of treatment for colorectal cancer. Nutritional support in the form of oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) in the preoperative period is widely accepted for reducing the incidence of perioperative complications, and immunonutrition is generally recommended. However, there is little clinical data regarding the impact of such treatment on tumor biology. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this study, tumor tissue and blood samples were collected from 26 patients during preoperative colonoscopy at the time of clinical diagnosis (sample A). Group 1 received standard ONSs (3× Nutricia Nutridrink Protein per day) for 2 weeks before surgery. In group 2, immune ONSs (2× Nestle Impact Oral) were administered for the same duration. Tumor tissue (sample B) was then retrieved from the tumor after resection. Changes in the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, interleukin 8 or chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL8), stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF1a), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 6 (CXCL6), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL2), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and CXCL1) were assessed during the perioperative course. RESULTS: TNF-α expression differed after intervention between the two groups (immune group 31.63 ± 13.28; control group 21.54 ± 6.84; p = 0.049) and prior to and after intervention in the control group (prior to intervention 35.68 ± 24.41; after intervention 21.54 ± 6.84; p = 0.038). Changes in CXCL8 expression in the control group occurred prior to and after intervention (prior to intervention 2975.93 ± 1484.04; after intervention 1584.85 ± 1659.84; p = 0.041). CXCL1 expression was increased in the immune group and decreased in the control group (immune group 2698.27 (1538.14-5124.70); control group 953.75 (457.85-1534.60); p = 0.032). In both groups, a decrease in superficial neutrophil infiltration was observed, but this was only statistically significant in the immune group. There was no impact of the observed differences between the two groups on surgical outcomes (morbidity, length of stay, readmissions). CONCLUSIONS: Immunonutrition in the preoperative period compared with standard nutritional support may influence inflammatory cytokine expression and leukocyte infiltration in patients with colorectal cancer.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy with Omentopexy: Is It Really a Promising Method?-A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is one of the most commonly performed bariatric procedure worldwide. Omentopexy during LSG is a novel variation of this well-established technique. There are no clear conclusions on indications for this procedure, safeness, and effects of such a method. We aimed to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) with omentopexy (OP) and without omentopexy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched the Medline, EMBASE, and Scopus databases up-to June 2020. Full-text articles and conference abstracts were included for further analysis. This review follows the PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: Of initial 66 records, only 4 studies (N = 1396 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. Our findings showed that LSG with omentopexy had significantly lowered overall morbidity compared to LSG without omentopexy (RR = 0.38; 95% CI [0.15, 0.94]; p=0.04). Gastric leakage rate (RR = 0.17; 95% CI [0.04, 0.76]; p = 0.02) was also significantly lower in LSG with omentopexy. There were no significant differences between groups in length of hospital stay. CONCLUSIONS: Our meta-analysis showed that LSG with omentopexy may be a feasible procedure for decreasing morbidity and gastric leak rate. However, despite promising results, the procedure needs to be researched more in randomized controlled studies to draw solid conclusions.

Molecular Profile of Barrett's Esophagus and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in the Development of Translational Physiological and Pharmacological Studies.

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a premalignant condition caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where physiological squamous epithelium is replaced by columnar epithelium. Several in vivo and in vitro BE models were developed with questionable translational relevance when implemented separately. Therefore, we aimed to screen Gene Expression Omnibus 2R (GEO2R) databases to establish whether clinical BE molecular profile was comparable with animal and optimized human esophageal squamous cell lines-based in vitro models. The GEO2R tool and selected databases were used to establish human BE molecular profile. BE-specific mRNAs in human esophageal cell lines (Het-1A and EPC2) were determined after one, three and/or six-day treatment with acidified medium (pH 5.0) and/or 50 and 100 µM bile mixture (BM). Wistar rats underwent microsurgical procedures to generate esophagogastroduodenal anastomosis (EGDA) leading to BE. BE-specific genes (keratin (KRT)1, KRT4, KRT5, KRT6A, KRT13, KRT14, KRT15, KRT16, KRT23, KRT24, KRT7, KRT8, KRT18, KRT20, trefoil factor (TFF)1, TFF2, TFF3, villin (VIL)1, mucin (MUC)2, MUC3A/B, MUC5B, MUC6 and MUC13) mRNA expression was assessed by real-time PCR. Pro/anti-inflammatory factors (interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, tumor necrosis factor α, interferon γ, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor) serum concentration was assessed by a Luminex assay. Expression profile in vivo reflected about 45% of clinical BE with accompanied inflammatory response. Six-day treatment with 100 µM BM (pH 5.0) altered gene expression in vitro reflecting in 73% human BE profile and making this the most reliable in vitro tool taking into account two tested cell lines. Our optimized and established combined in vitro and in vivo BE models can improve further physiological and pharmacological studies testing pathomechanisms and novel therapeutic targets of this disorder.

Utility of Inflammatory Markers in Detection of Perioperative Morbidity After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, and One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass-Multicenter Study.

BACKGROUND: The most commonly performed bariatric operations are laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and bypass surgeries (laparoscopic one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB)), and predicting perioperative morbidity is crucial for early, safe patient discharge. We aimed to determine whether C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood count (WBC) measured on the first postoperative day predicts perioperative morbidity in the first 30-days after LSG and bypass surgeries. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed data for 1400 patients who underwent bariatric surgery in seven bariatric centers from 2014 to 2018. Patients were divided into a complicated group (patients with postoperative complications) and a non-complicated group. We also performed separate analyses for LSG and bypass surgeries. RESULTS: Patients were 929 women (66%) and 471 men (34%) with a median age of 42 years (range, 35-51 years); 1192 patients underwent LSG (85%), 120 underwent LRYGB (9%), and 80 underwent OAGB (6%). We performed ROC analyses to set cut-off points, followed by multivariate logistic regressions. CRP > 33.32 mg/L increased the odds ratio (OR) of perioperative complications after LSG 2.27 times, while WBC > 12.15 × 103/µL on postoperative day 1 was associated with a 3.34-times greater or of developing complications. WBC > 13.78 × 103/µL was associated with a 13.34-times higher or of perioperative morbidity in patients undergoing bypass surgeries. CONCLUSION: Even slightly elevated CRP and WBC on postoperative day 1 should alert surgeons to the potential risk of perioperative morbidity.

Interaction of epidermal growth factor with COX-2 products and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ system in experimental rat Barrett's esophagus.

Mixed acidic-alkaline refluxate is a major pathogenic factor in chronic esophagitis progressing to Barrett's esophagus (BE). We hypothesized that epidermal growth factor (EGF) can interact with COX-2 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) in rats surgically prepared with esophagogastroduodenal anastomosis (EGDA) with healthy or removed salivary glands to deplete salivary EGF. EGDA rats were treated with 1) vehicle, 2) EGF or PPARγ agonist pioglitazone with or without EGFR kinase inhibitor tyrphostin A46, EGF or PPARγ antagonist GW9662 respectively, 3) ranitidine or pantoprazole, and 4) the selective COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib combined with pioglitazone. At 3 mo, the esophageal damage and the esophageal blood flow (EBF) were determined, the mucosal expression of EGF, EGFR, COX-2, TNFα, and PPARγ mRNA and phospho-EGFR/EGFR protein was analyzed. All EGDA rats developed chronic esophagitis, esophageal ulcerations, and intestinal metaplasia followed by a fall in the EBF, an increase in the plasma of IL-1ß, TNFα, and mucosal PGE2 content, the overexpression of COX-2-, and EGF-EGFR mRNAs, and proteins, and these effects were aggravated by EGF and attenuated by pioglitazone. The rise in EGF and COX-2 mRNA was inhibited by pioglitazone but reversed by pioglitazone cotreated with GW9662. We conclude that 1) EGF can interact with PG/COX-2 and the PPARγ system in the mechanism of chronic esophagitis; 2) the deleterious effect of EGF involves an impairment of EBF and the overexpression of COX-2 and EGFR, and 3) agonists of PPARγ and inhibitors of EGFR may be useful in the treatment of chronic esophagitis progressing to BE.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Rats with EGDA exhibited chronic esophagitis accompanied by a fall in EBF and an increase in mucosal expression of mRNAs for EGF, COX-2, and TNFα, and these effects were exacerbated by exogenous EGF and reduced by removal of a major source of endogenous EGF with salivectomy or concurrent treatment with tyrphostin A46 or pioglitazone combined with EGF. Beneficial effects of salivectomy in an experimental model of BE were counteracted by PPARγ antagonist, whereas selective COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib synergistically with pioglitazone reduced severity of esophageal damage and protected esophageal mucosa from reflux. We propose the cross talk among EGF/EGFR, PG/COX-2, and proinflammatory cytokines with PPARγ pathway in the mechanism of pathogenesis of chronic esophagitis progressing to BE and EAC.

Decision-making based on 3D printed models in laparoscopic liver resections with intraoperative ultrasound: a prospective observational study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate impact of 3D printed models on decision-making in context of laparoscopic liver resections (LLR) performed with intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) guidance. METHODS: Nineteen patients with liver malignances (74% were colorectal cancer metastases) were prospectively qualified for LLR or radiofrequency ablation in a single center from April 2017 to December 2018. Models were 3DP in all cases based on CT and facilitated optical visualization of tumors' relationships with portal and hepatic veins. Planned surgical extent and its changes were tracked after CT analysis and 3D model inspection, as well as intraoperatively using IOUS. RESULTS: Nineteen patients were included in the analysis. Information from either 3DP or IOUS led to changes in the planned surgical approach in 13/19 (68%) patients. In 5/19 (26%) patients, the 3DP model altered the plan of the surgery preoperatively. In 4/19 (21%) patients, 3DP independently changed the approach. In one patient, IOUS modified the plan post-3DP. In 8/19 (42%) patients, 3DP model did not change the approach, whereas IOUS did. In total, IOUS altered surgical plans in 9 (47%) cases. Most of those changes (6/9; 67%) were caused by detection of additional lesions not visible on CT and 3DP. CONCLUSIONS: 3DP can be helpful in planning complex and major LLRs and led to changes in surgical approach in 26.3% (5/19 patients) in our series. 3DP may serve as a useful adjunct to IOUS. KEY POINTS: • 3D printing can help in decision-making before major and complex resections in patients with liver cancer. • In 5/19 patients, 3D printed model altered surgical plan preoperatively. • Most surgical plan changes based on intraoperative ultrasonography were caused by detection of additional lesions not visible on CT and 3D model.

Author Correction: Risk factors for serious morbidity, prolonged length of stay and hospital readmission after laparoscopic appendectomy - results from Pol-LA (Polish Laparoscopic Appendectomy) multicenter large cohort study.

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.