Incidence and predictors of hypophosphataemia after ferric carboxymaltose use-A 3-year experience from a single institution in Singapore.

Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) administration helps reduce transfusion requirements in the perioperative situation, which improves patient outcomes and reduces healthcare costs. However, there is increasing evidence of hypophosphataemia after FCM use. We aim to determine the incidence of hypophosphataemia after FCM administration and elucidate potential biochemical factors associated with the development of subsequent hypophosphataemia. A retrospective review of anonymised data of all FCM administrations in a single institution was conducted from August 2018 to August 2021. Each unique FCM dose administered was examined to assess its effect on Hb and serum phosphate levels within the subsequent 28 days from each FCM administration. Phosphate levels were repeatedly measured within the 28-day interval and the lowest phosphate level within that period was determined. Patients' serum phosphate levels within 28 days of FCM administration were compared against normal serum phosphate levels within 2 weeks before FCM administration. The odds ratios of various pre-FCM serum markers were calculated to elucidate potential biochemical predictors of post-FCM hypophosphataemia. In 3 years, a total of 1296 doses of FCM were administered to 1069 patients. The mean improvement in Hb was 2.45 g/dL (SD = 1.94) within 28 days of FCM administration, with the mean time taken to peak Hb levels being 6.3 days (SD = 8.63), which is earlier than expected, but was observed in this study and hence reported. The incidence of hypophosphataemia <0.8 mmol/L was 22.7% (n = 186), and <0.4 mmol/L was 1.6% (n = 9). This figure is lower than the numbers reported in previously published meta-analyses given that routine checks of serum phosphate levels were not conducted initially and hence could possibly be higher. The odds of developing hypophosphataemia (<0.8 mmol/L) were 27.7 (CI: 17.3-44.2, p < 0.0001) if baseline serum phosphate was less than 1 mmol/L. The odds of developing hypophosphataemia (<0.8 mmol/L) were 1.3 (CI: 1.08-1.59, p < 0.01) if the change in Hb levels observed after FCM administration were more than 4 g/dL. Hypophosphataemia after FCM administration is significant and FCM should be used by clinicians with caution.

Knowledge, perceptions and behaviours of endoscopists towards the use of artificial intelligence-aided colonoscopy.

BACKGROUND: Recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) systems have enabled advancements in endoscopy. Deep learning systems, using convolutional neural networks, have allowed for real-time AI-aided detection of polyps with higher sensitivity than the average endoscopist. However, not all endoscopists welcome the advent of AI systems. METHODS: We conducted a survey on the knowledge of AI, perceptions of AI in medicine, and behaviours regarding use of AI-aided colonoscopy, in a single centre 2 months after the implementation of Medtronic's GI Genius in colonoscopy. We obtained a response rate of 66.7% (16/24) amongst consultant-grade endoscopists. Fisher's exact test was used to calculate the significance of correlations. RESULTS: Knowledge of AI varied widely amongst endoscopists. Most endoscopists were optimistic about AI's capabilities in performing objective administrative and clinical tasks, but reserved about AI providing personalised, empathetic care. 68.8% (n = 11) of endoscopists agreed or strongly agreed that GI Genius should be used as an adjunct in colonoscopy. In analysing the 31.3% (n = 5) of endoscopists who disagreed or were ambivalent about its use, there was no significant correlation with their knowledge or perceptions of AI, but a significant number did not enjoy using the programme (p-value = 0.0128) and did not think it improved the quality of colonoscopy (p-value = 0.033). CONCLUSIONS: Acceptance of AI-aided colonoscopy systems is more related to the endoscopist's experience with using the programme, rather than general knowledge or perceptions towards AI. Uptake of such systems will rely greatly on how the device is delivered to the end user.

Real-time artificial intelligence (AI)-aided endoscopy improves adenoma detection rates even in experienced endoscopists: a cohort study in Singapore.

BACKGROUND: Colonoscopy is a mainstay to detect premalignant neoplastic lesions in the colon. Real-time Artificial Intelligence (AI)-aided colonoscopy purportedly improves the polyp detection rate, especially for small flat lesions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance of real-time AI-aided colonoscopy in the detection of colonic polyps. METHODS: A prospective single institution cohort study was conducted in Singapore. All real-time AI-aided colonoscopies, regardless of indication, performed by specialist-grade endoscopists were anonymously recorded from July to September 2021 and reviewed by 2 independent authors (FHK, JL). Sustained detection of an area by the program was regarded as a "hit". Histology for the polypectomies were reviewed to determine adenoma detection rate (ADR). Individual endoscopist's performance with AI were compared against their baseline performance without AI endoscopy. RESULTS: A total of 24 (82.8%) endoscopists participated with 18 (62.1%) performing ≥ 5 AI-aided colonoscopies. Of the 18, 72.2% (n = 13) were general surgeons. During that 3-months period, 487 "hits" encountered in 298 colonoscopies. Polypectomies were performed for 51.3% and 68.4% of these polypectomies were adenomas on histology. The post-intervention median ADR was 30.4% was higher than the median baseline polypectomy rate of 24.3% (p = 0.02). Of the adenomas excised, 14 (5.6%) were sessile serrated adenomas. Of those who performed ≥ 5 AI-aided colonoscopies, 13 (72.2%) had an improvement of ADR compared to their polypectomy rate before the introduction of AI, of which 2 of them had significant improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Real-time AI-aided colonoscopy have the potential to improved ADR even for experienced endoscopists and would therefore, improve the quality of colonoscopy.

One-year review of real-time artificial intelligence (AI)-aided endoscopy performance.

BACKGROUND: Colonoscopies have long been the gold standard for detection of pre-malignant neoplastic lesions of the colon. Our previous study tried real-time artificial intelligence (AI)-aided colonoscopy over a three-month period and found significant improvements in collective and individual endoscopist's adenoma detection rates compared to baseline. As an expansion, this study evaluates the 1-year performance of AI-aided colonoscopy in the same institution. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted in a single institution in Singapore. The AI software used was GI Genius™ Intelligent Endoscopy Module, US-DG-2000309 © 2021 Medtronic. Between July 2021 and June 2022, polypectomy rates in non-AI-aided colonoscopies and AI-aided colonoscopies were calculated and compared. Some of the AI-aided colonoscopies were recorded and video reviewed. A "hit" was defined as a sustained detection of an area by the AI. If a polypectomy was performed for a "hit," its histology was reviewed. Additional calculations for polyp detection rate (PDR), adenoma detection rate (ADR), and adenoma detection per colonoscopy (ADPC) were performed. Cost analysis was performed to determine cost effectiveness of subscription to the AI program. RESULTS: 2433 AI-aided colonoscopies were performed between July 2021 and June 2022 and compared against 1770 non-AI-aided colonoscopies. AI-aided colonoscopies yielded significantly higher rates of polypectomies (33.6%) as compared with non-AI-aided colonoscopies (28.4%) (p < 0.001). Among the AI-aided colonoscopies, 1050 were reviewed and a final 843 were included for additional analysis. The polypectomy to "hit" ratio was 57.4%, PDR = 45.6%, ADR = 32.4%, and ADPC = 2.08. Histological review showed that 25 polyps (3.13%) were sessile-serrated adenomas. Cost analysis found that the increased polypectomy rates in AI-aided colonoscopes led to an increase in revenue, which covered the subscription cost with an excess of USD 20,000. CONCLUSION: AI-aided colonoscopy is a cost effective means of improving colonoscopy quality and may help advance colorectal cancer screening in Singapore.

Pre-operative erector spinae plane block should be considered a viable option for laparoscopic colectomies.

BACKGROUND: The Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) block is a recent development in the field of regional anaesthesia and has been increasingly explored for abdominal surgeries to reduce opioid use and improve pain control. Colorectal cancer is the commonest cancer in multi-ethnic Singapore and requires surgery for curative treatment. ESP is a promising alternative in colorectal surgeries, but few studies have evaluated its efficacy in such surgeries. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the use of ESP blocks in laparoscopic colorectal surgeries to establish its safety and efficacy in this field. METHODS: A prospective two-armed interventional cohort study comparing T8-T10 ESP blocks with conventional multimodal intravenous analgesia for laparoscopic colectomies was conducted in a single institution in Singapore. The decision for doing an ESP block versus conventional multimodal intravenous analgesia was made by a consensus between the attending surgeon and anesthesiologist. Outcomes measured were total intra-operative opioid consumption, post-operative pain control and patient outcome. Post-operative pain control was measured by pain score, analgesia use, and amount of opioids consumed. Patient outcome was determined by presence of ileus. RESULTS: A total of 146 patients were included, of which 30 patients received an ESP block. Overall, the ESP group had a significantly lower median opioid usage both intra-operatively and post-operatively (p = 0.031). Fewer patients required patient-controlled analgesia and rescue analgesia post-operatively for pain control (p < 0.001) amongst the ESP group. Pain scores were similar and post-operative ileus was absent in both groups. Multivariate analysis found that the ESP block had an independent effect on reducing intra-opioid consumption (p = 0.014). Multivariate analysis of post-operative opioid use and pain scores did not yield statistically significant results. CONCLUSIONS: The ESP block was an effective alternative regional anaesthesia for colorectal surgery that reduced intra-operative and post-operative opioid use while attaining satisfactory pain control.

Individual and combined associations of sarcopenia, osteoporosis and obesity with frailty in a multi-ethnic asian older adult population.

BACKGROUND: We explored the relationships between sarcopenia (SP), osteoporosis (OP), obesity (OB), (alone and in combination) with physical frailty (PF) in a multi-ethnic, population-based study of Asians aged ≥ 60 years. METHODS: Participants were enrolled from the PopulatION HEalth and Eye Disease PRofile in Elderly Singaporeans Study (PIONEER) study. PF was defined using the modified Fried phenotype; SP using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019; OP using bone mineral density scores; and OB using the fat mass index. Modified Poisson regression models investigated the associations between exposures and PF, and the relative excess rates of PF due to interactions (RERI) to determine synergistic or antagonistic interactions. RESULTS: Of the 2643 participants, 54.8% was female; and 49.8%, 25.1%, 25.0% were Chinese, Indians, and Malays, respectively. 25%, 19.0% and 6.7% participants had OB only, SP only, and OP only, respectively. A total of 356 (17.5%), 151 (7.4%) and 97 (4.8%) had osteosarcopenia (OSP), sarcopenic obesity (SOB) and osteo-obesity (OOB), respectively; while 70 (3.5%) had all 3 morbid conditions (osteosarcopenic obesity, OSO). Both SP only and OB only were strongly associated with increased rates of PF (RR: 2.53, 95% CI: 1.95, 3.29; RR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.58, 2.66 respectively); but not OP. Those with OSP, OOB and SOB were also associated with high risks of PF (RR: 2.82, 95% CI: 2.16, 3.68; RR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.69, 3.23; and RR: 2.58, 95% CI: 1.95, 3.41, respectively) compared to robust individuals. Critically, individuals with OSO had the highest relative risk of having PF (RR: 3.06, CI: 2.28, 4.11). Only the sarcopenia-obesity interaction was significant, demonstrating negative synergism (antagonism). The concurrent presence of SP and OB was associated with a 100% lower rate of PF compared to the sum of the relatively rates of SP only and OB only. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of SP, OB and OP, alone and combined, is substantial in older Asians and their early identification is needed to mitigate the risk of frailty. OB may interact with SP in an antagonistic manner to moderate rates of frailty. Further longitudinal studies are needed to address causality and mechanistic underpinnings our findings.

Laparoscopic Anterior Resection with Anastomosis of Mid-Transverse to Distal Rectum with Deloyers Procedure Under Indocyanine Green fluorescence Guidance: A Video Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction with transverse colon-rectal anastomosis after an extended left hemicolectomy can be challenging. The Deloyers procedure, first described in 1964,1 comprises complete mobilization and rotation of the right colon, while maintaining the ileocolic artery, to achieve a well vascularized, tension-free colorectal anastomosis. We present a video of a laparoscopic Deloyers procedure with Indocyanin green (ICG) fluorescence as a useful adjunct. METHODS: A middle-aged female underwent a laparoscopic anterior resection with anastomosis of mid-transverse to distal rectum with Deloyers procedure for synchronous splenic flexure adenocarcinoma and mid-rectal malignant polyp. Proximal transection was performed at mid-transverse colon while distal transection was performed at lower rectum. Tension-free mid-transverse colon-low rectal anastomosis was performed with Deloyers procedure. ICG fluorescence was performed for the colonic conduit, proximal, and distal transection margins to confirm perfusion just prior to anastomosis. Defunctioning loop ileostomy was then created 40 cm from the ileocecal valve. RESULTS: Patient recovered uneventfully with functioning stoma on postoperative Day 1. Intraoperative use of ICG fluorescence has been proven to be an accurate tool assess anastomotic perfusion and has been associated with a lower anastomotic leak rate after colorectal resection.2 To our knowledge, this is the first report in which laparoscopic Deloyers procedure was performed under ICG guidance. Open Deloyers procedure with ICG was first reported by Okamoto et al.3 in April 2021 and remains the only other case report of Deloyers with ICG to date. CONCLUSIONS: The Deloyers procedure can be safely performed laparoscopically and ICG fluorescence is a recommended adjunct to assess such unorthodox colorectal anastomosis.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of postoperative pain and symptoms control following laser haemorrhoidoplasty versus Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy for symptomatic haemorrhoids: a new standard.

PURPOSE: Haemorrhoidal disease (HD) plagues one in every ten people, with a plethora of surgical treatment modalities, of which laser haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) is a relatively novel option. This systematic review and meta-analysis objectively evaluated the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of LHP compared against conventional (Milligan-Morgan) open haemorrhoidectomy (CoH). METHOD: A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Google Scholar was conducted. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and comparative cohort studies (CCSs) which compared LHP against CoH were included, with postoperative pain as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative characteristics, short- and moderate-term outcome, and complications. RESULTS: A total of 12 studies (6 RCTs and 6 CCSs), with a total of 1824 patients, were analysed. LHP resulted in reduced postoperative pain for the first day (mean difference of 2.07 visual analogue scale units), week, and month. The mean dosage and duration of postoperative analgesia use was similarly lower, with a mean difference of 4.88 mg (morphine) and 2.25 days, respectively. Crucially, recurrence was equivocal (HR: 0.72, CI: 0.21-2.40) at a mean follow-up duration of 8.58 ± 9.55 months. LHP resulted in lower blood loss and was 12.74 min shorter on average. LHP's postoperative recovery time was 9.03 days less with equivalent or decreased risk of most short- and moderate-term complications except anal thrombosis. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that LHP is more tolerable than CoH, providing patients with superior postoperative quality of life at equivalent moderate-term efficacy. These findings contribute to improved understanding of LHP and its potential at enhancing the quality of HD care.

Did the COVID-19 lockdown result in a delay of colorectal cancer presentation and outcomes? A single centre review.

PURPOSE: The COVID-19 pandemic and resultant lockdown measures potentially delay management of non-communicable, life-limiting diseases like colorectal cancer (CRC) through avoidance of healthcare facilities by the public and diversion of resources within healthcare systems. This study aims to evaluate the impact of Singapore's "Circuit Breaker (CB)" lockdown measures on CRC disease presentation and short-term surgical outcomes, while comparing Singapore's approach against other countries which employed similar lockdown measures. METHODS: Patients whose initial diagnosis of CRC was made within the 6-month pre-CB (6/10/19-6/4/20) ("pre-CB group") and post-CB (7/4/20-7/10/20) ("post-CB group") period were enrolled retrospectively. The groups were compared based on severity of disease on presentation and short-term operative outcomes. RESULTS: In total, 105 patients diagnosed with CRC were enrolled in this study. When comparing pre-CB and post-CB groups, there was no significant difference in stage of CRC on presentation (p = 0.850). There was also no increase in need for emergent operations (p = 0.367). For patients who had undergone an operation, postoperative morbidity was not significantly higher in the post-CB group (p = 0.201). Both groups of patients had similar length of stay in the hospital (p = 0.438). CONCLUSION: Unlike similar high-income countries, Singapore did not see later stage disease on presentation and poorer operative outcomes after lockdown measures. Possible reasons include lesser healthcare avoidance behaviours amongst Singaporeans, and adequate preparation of resources and contingency plans formed by hospitals after previous pandemics.

COVID-19 not detected in peritoneal fluid: a case of laparoscopic appendicectomy for acute appendicitis in a COVID-19-infected patient.

PURPOSE: COVID-19 greatly affected millions and affected the way we practice with heightened posture in the way we treat surgical patients. Surgical consensus guidelines are recommending caution in the use of laparoscopy for the theoretical possibility of viral transmission from aerosolization of tissue and peritoneal fluid during surgery. However, there has yet to be proof of COVID-19 being present in peritoneal fluid, justifying the consensus statements. We aim to assess the presence of COVID-19 in peritoneal fluid. METHODS: We performed a laparoscopic appendicectomy for a COVID-19-infected patient with acute appendicitis. Peritoneal fluid and peritoneal washings were collected and sent for COVID-19 PCR. RESULTS: The peritoneal fluid sample collected on entry and at the end of the operation was negative for COVID-19 on PCR. The patient had an uneventful recovery from surgery. CONCLUSIONS: This case revealed that COVID-19 was not detected in peritoneal fluid and peritoneal washings in a patient infected with COVID-19. This study provides novel preliminary data in the investigation of COVID-19 transmission from laparoscopy-related aerosolization.

Study Protocol for the Use of Conventional Open Haemorrhoidectomy versus Laser Haemorrhoidoplasty in the Treatment of Symptomatic Haemorrhoids: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Haemorrhoids result in a variety of symptoms that cause significant patient anxiety. Treatment has long been associated with post-operative complications, which cause significant symptoms and may result in readmissions. The open conventional haemorrhoidectomy (COH) is still regarded as the gold standard treatment for non-circumferential grade II-IV haemorrhoids. Laser haemorrhoidoplasty (LAH) has recently been studied and the initial results appear promising. This study aims to compare these 2 techniques in the treatment of symptomatic haemorrhoids. We hypothesize that LAH has significantly less pain and bleeding and better quality of life (QoL) scores 1, 3 and 12 months post-operatively. METHODS: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, single-centre clinical trial will be conducted. All patients aged between 21 and 90 years who present with symptomatic grade II-IV haemorrhoids will be recruited. Exclusion criteria include those who have had previous operations for haemorrhoids and those with an increased risk of bleeding. Data collected will include patient demographics, pre- and intra-operative characteristics of the haemorrhoids, operative details and post-operative pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, complications, readmissions, and haemorrhoid-specific QoL surveys. Primary outcome will be median post-operative pain VAS score on post-operative days (POD) 1-10. Secondary outcomes include operative duration, bleeding on the first 10 days post-operatively, readmissions, procedure-related complications (fistulation, incontinence, stenosis), QoL scores, and recurrence of symptoms up to 12 months. DISCUSSION: Results from this trial may demonstrate the superiority of LAH over COH in terms of post-operative pain and recovery. This would likely increase the adoption of LAH for the treatment of symptomatic haemorrhoids. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was registered on 1/4/2020 at ClinicalTrials.gov. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04329364?term=NCT04329364&draw=2&rank=1.

Thinking out of the Gut: a case of obscure lower GI bleeding.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION: A middle-aged man was admitted for episodes of fresh per-rectal bleeding, which were not associated with defecation. He was recently investigated for macrocytic anaemia in the outpatient haematology clinic. Examination of the perineum revealed grade 1 internal haemorrhoids with no signs of bleeding.Initial laboratory tests revealed macrocytic anaemia (haemoglobin 10.5 g/dL, normal 12.9-17.0  g/dL; mean corpuscular haemoglobin 95.3 fL, normal 80.0-95.0  fL). Peripheral blood film showing blasts, dysplastic neutrophils, nucleated red blood cells and hypogranular platelets.The patient underwent a sigmoidoscopy and rubber band ligation of the internal haemorrhoids after persistent fresh per-rectal bleeding. The bleeding persisted with the development of hypotension and a significant drop of haemoglobin to 4.8 g/dL requiring blood transfusions and intensive care monitoring. Repeated endoscopy, including intubation of the terminal ileum, revealed uncomplicated right-sided diverticulosis. CT mesenteric angiography performed during an episode of significant bleeding revealed extravasation of contrast in the ileum, but mesenteric angiography was unsuccessful, possibly due to a temporary cessation of bleeding. Bleeding subsequently recurred and in light of the persistent bleeding with no clear source and with a total of 12 units of packed cell transfused, exploratory laparotomy, on-table enteroscopy (figure 1) with small bowel resection was performed. Histopathological examination of the specimen was performed (figures 2-4).gutjnl;66/12/2068/GUTJNL2016313252F1F1GUTJNL2016313252F1Figure 1Multiple ileal lesions with stigmata of recent bleed.gutjnl;66/12/2068/GUTJNL2016313252F2F2GUTJNL2016313252F2Figure 2Area of ulceration associated with atypical mononuclear infiltrate.gutjnl;66/12/2068/GUTJNL2016313252F3F3GUTJNL2016313252F3Figure 3Atypical mononuclear infiltrate composed of cells with enlarged, irregular nuclei containing variably prominent nucleoli.gutjnl;66/12/2068/GUTJNL2016313252F4F4GUTJNL2016313252F4Figure 4Atypical cells displayed cytoplasmic expression of myeloperoxidase. QUESTION: What is the diagnosis?

Young colorectal cancer patients often present too late.

PURPOSE: Current screening and health education strategies on colorectal cancer (CRC) remain focused on individuals >50 years old. However, CRC in young adults is not uncommon. This paper aims to explore how CRC presents in young adults and their clinical outcomes. METHODS: All patients aged <50 years diagnosed with CRC from January 2007 to December 2015 were reviewed. Patient demographics, clinical symptoms, and outcomes of treatment were collected. RESULTS: Of 1367 patients diagnosed with CRC, 154 (11.6%) were aged <50 years. The median age of diagnosis was 45 years (range, 19-49). The majority (61%) of the patients presented acutely via the emergency department and the three most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain (n = 94; 61.0%), change in bowel habits (n = 74; 48.1%), and per rectal bleeding (n = 69; 44.8%). Most of the primary cancers were left sided (n = 122, 79.2%) in location and 33 (21.4%) patients had metastatic disease on presentation. 138 (89.6%) patients were treated with curative intent, including 17 (51.5%) with metastatic disease on presentation. There were 31 (22.5%) patients who developed disease recurrence at a median duration of 10.0 (range, 0.5-94.0) months. The younger group (<45 years old) were more likely to present acutely and had more aggressive tumor biology. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of young CRC patients present acutely and their presenting symptoms are often vague. There is a need to educate young adults on the possibility of harboring CRC and its typical presenting symptoms to enable earlier detection.

A Safe Method for Middle Colic Dissection and Ligation at its Origin in a Laparoscopic Extended Right Hemicolectomy.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy is regarded as one of the more difficult procedures in colorectal surgery due to the complexity of the dissection around the pancreatic neck to identify the origin of the middle colic artery.1 Proper identification and ligation of the middle colic artery at its origin is paramount to achieve complete mesocolic excision.2 , 3 We describe our technique of middle colic vessels dissection in a laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy. METHODS: Our patient was a 58-year-old female with a stenosing transverse colon adenocarcinoma. The video highlights the key steps of a laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy with special attention to the dissection and identification of the origin of the middle colic vessels at the pancreatic neck. We utilized a posterior-to-anterior approach for the dissection around the superior mesenteric pedicle. RESULTS: By carefully skeletonizing the pancreas from the body to the neck, the superior mesentery pedicle is isolated and skeletonized to identify the origin of the middle colic vessels. A posterior-to-anterior approach is used to complete the skeletonisation before ligation of the middle colic vessels at its origin. Operative time was 288 min with an estimated blood loss of 40 ml. The patient recovered well without complications of pancreatitis and was discharged on postoperative day 5. Histology revealed a 4-cm moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma with 10 of 34 lymph nodes involved-pT3N2b. CONCLUSIONS: With the increasing popularity of laparoscopic surgery, meticulous laparoscopic dissection of the middle colic vessels is feasible and safe and may potentially help to optimize oncological outcomes for laparoscopic extended right hemicolectomy.

Fluorescent Angiography Used to Evaluate the Perfusion Status of Anastomosis in Laparoscopic Anterior Resection.

BACKGROUND: Anastomotic leakage after gastrointestinal surgery is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.1 Insufficient vascular supply is one cause.2 Recent reports of using intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent angiography to evaluate whether perfusion of the anastomosis is adequate has yielded positive outcomes.3 - 6 The authors describe their use of ICG-enhanced fluorescence angiography in a laparoscopic anterior resection. METHODS: The patient was an 80-year-old with an upper rectal adenocarcinoma and significant cardiovascular risk factors. Fluorescence angiography with 0.4 mg/kg of ICG was administered intravenously just before the colorectal anastomosis was fashioned. A near-infrared (NIR) laparoscopic camera (KARLSTORZ, GmbH & Co. KG, Tuttlingen, Germany) was used to inspect the anastomosis. For this video, 0.4 mg/kg of ICG also was injected after ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery to demonstrate the appearance of a poorly perfused sigmoid bowel. RESULTS: Just before the staple was fired to fashion the colorectal anastomosis, an intravenous bolus of ICG was administered. Within seconds, vessels on both ends of the anastomosis turned fluorescent blue, indicating adequacy of perfusion. The use of ICG did not significantly lengthen the operative time (285 min) because its effect appeared within seconds after its administration. The patient recovered well and was discharged on postoperative day 5. Another four patients who also underwent intraoperative fluorescent angiography for left-sided colorectal lesions did not experience anastomotic leakage. CONCLUSION: The study showed that ICG fluorescent angiography is a simple and quick intraoperative tool for evaluating the perfusion of the anastomosis. The authors' experience with ICG fluorescent angiography has shown promising results, with a 0 % anastomotic leak rate.

Does the timing of an invasive mesenteric angiography following a positive CT mesenteric angiography make a difference?

BACKGROUND: Computed tomographic mesenteric angiography (CTMA) is integral in the management of patients with acute lower gastrointestinal tract bleeding (LGIB). An invasive mesenteric angiography (MA) with a view to embolize the site of bleeding is usually performed if active contrast extravasation was seen on the CTMA scans. However, the bleeding may have ceased by the time the invasive MA is performed. This study aims to identify predictors for active extravasation in invasive MA following a positive CTMA in patients with massive LGIB. METHODOLOGY: A single-center retrospective study of all patients who underwent an invasive MA following a positive CTMA for LGIB from August 2007 to October 2013 was performed. Comparison was performed between patients who had positive and negative invasive MA after a positive CTMA. RESULTS: Forty-eight invasive MA scans were performed in patients with LGIB following a positive CTMA scan. Twenty-three (47.9%) were due to diverticular disease while 20 (41.7%) bled from the small bowel. The median delay from a positive CTMA to invasive MA was 144 (32-587) min. Of the 48 invasive MA, 25 demonstrated active extravasation. Invasive MA scans that was performed within 90 min after a positive CTMA scan were 8.56 (95% CI 0.96-76.1, p = 0.05) times more likely to detect a positive extravasation. CONCLUSION: Invasive MA should be executed promptly after a positive CTMA to increase the probability of detecting the site of bleed to allow superselective embolization.