Short-Course Radiotherapy Followed by Consolidation Chemotherapy Is Safe and Effective in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: Comparative Short-term Results of Multicenter Propensity Score Case-Matched Study.

BACKGROUND: Consolidation chemotherapy strategies have demonstrated improved pathological complete response and tumor downstaging rates for patients diagnosed with rectal cancer. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare perioperative outcomes and pathological complete response rates among different neoadjuvant treatment strategies in patients undergoing total mesorectal excision for locally advanced rectal cancer. DESIGN: Propensity score case-matched study. SETTING: High-volume tertiary care centers. PATIENTS: Consecutive patients undergoing curative total mesorectal excision between January 2014 and June 2021 were queried. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were divided into 3 groups: long-course chemoradiation therapy with (N = 128) or without (N = 164) consolidation chemotherapy or short-course radiotherapy (N = 53) followed by consolidation chemotherapy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Demographics, preoperative tumor characteristics, histopathologic outcomes, and postoperative complication rates were reviewed and compared. Propensity score match analysis was conducted. RESULTS: A total of 345 patients (mean age: 58 ± 12 years; female: 36%) met the study inclusion criteria. Time interval from neoadjuvant treatment until surgery was longer for patients receiving consolidation chemotherapy ( p < 0.001). Pathological complete response rates were comparable among patients receiving long-course chemoradiation therapy (20.3%) and short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy (20.8%) compared to long-course chemoradiation therapy alone (14.6%) ( p = 0.36). After the propensity score case-matched analysis, 48 patients in the long-course chemoradiation therapy with consolidation chemotherapy group were matched to 48 patients in the short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy group. Groups were comparable with respect to age, sex, clinical stage, tumor location, type of surgical approach, and technique. Pathological complete response rate was comparable between the groups (20.8% and 18.8%, p = 0.99). LIMITATIONS: Study was limited by its retrospective nature. CONCLUSIONS: Among recent neoadjuvant treatment modalities, pathological complete response rates, and short-term clinical outcomes were comparable. Short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy is safe and effective as long-course chemoradiation therapy as in a short-term period. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C174 . LA RADIOTERAPIA DE CORTA DURACIN SEGUIDA DE QUIMIOTERAPIA DE CONSOLIDACIN ES SEGURA Y EFICAZ EN EL CNCER DE RECTO LOCALMENTE AVANZADO RESULTADOS COMPARATIVOS A CORTO PLAZO DEL ESTUDIO MULTICNTRICO DE CASOS EMPAREJADOS POR PUNTAJE DE PROPENSION: ANTECEDENTES: Las estrategias de quimioterapia de consolidación han demostrado una mejor respuesta patológica completa y tasas de reducción del estadio del tumor para pacientes diagnosticados con cáncer de recto.OBJETIVO: Comparar los resultados perioperatorios y las tasas de respuesta patológica completa entre diferentes estrategias de tratamiento neoadyuvante en pacientes sometidos a escisión mesorrectal total por cáncer de recto localmente avanzado.DISEÑO: Estudio de casos emparejados por puntaje de propensión.ENTORNO CLINICO: Centros de atención terciaria de alto volumen.PACIENTES: Pacientes consecutivos sometidos a escisión mesorrectal total curativa por cáncer de recto localmente avanzado entre enero de 2014 y junio de 2021.INTERVENCIONES: Los pacientes se dividieron en tres grupos según la modalidad de tratamiento neoadyuvante: quimiorradioterapia de ciclo largo con (N = 128) o sin (N = 164) quimioterapia de consolidación o radioterapia de ciclo corto (N = 53) seguida de quimioterapia de consolidación.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO: El punto final primario fue la respuesta patológica completa. Se revisaron y compararon los datos demográficos, las características preoperatorias del tumor, los resultados histopatológicos y las tasas de complicaciones posoperatorias entre los grupos de estudio. Se realizó un análisis de casos emparejados por puntaje de propensión.RESULTADOS: Un total de 345 pacientes (edad media de 58 ± 12 años y mujeres: 36%) cumplieron los criterios de inclusión del estudio. El intervalo de tiempo desde el tratamiento neoadyuvante hasta la cirugía fue mayor para los pacientes que recibieron quimioterapia de consolidación ( p < 0,001). Las tasas de respuesta patológica completa fueron comparables entre los pacientes que recibieron quimiorradioterapia de larga duración con quimioterapia de consolidación (20,3 %) y radioterapia de corta duración con quimioterapia de consolidación (20,8%) en comparación con la quimiorradiación de larga duración sola (14,6%) ( p = 0,36). Después del análisis de casos emparejados por puntaje de propensión, 48 pacientes en el grupo de quimiorradioterapia de ciclo largo con quimioterapia de consolidación se emparejaron con 48 pacientes en el grupo de radioterapia de ciclo corto con quimioterapia de consolidación. Los grupos fueron comparables con respecto a la edad, sexo, estadio clínico, ubicación del tumor, tipo de abordaje quirúrgico y la técnica. La tasa de respuesta patológica completa fue comparable entre los grupos (20,8% y 18,8%, p = 0,99). La morbilidad postoperatoria a los 30 días y las tasas de fuga anastomótica fueron similares.LIMITACIONES: El estudio estuvo limitado por su naturaleza retrospectiva.CONCLUSIONES: Entre las modalidades de tratamiento neoadyuvante recientes, las tasas de respuesta patológica completa y los resultados clínicos a corto plazo fueron comparables. La radioterapia de corta duración con quimioterapia de consolidación es segura y eficaz como terapia de quimiorradioterapia de larga duración en un período corto. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C174 . (Traducción-Dr. Fidel Ruiz Healy ).

Standardization of the Definition and Surgical Management of Splenic Flexure Carcinoma by an International Expert Consensus Using the Delphi Technique: Room for Improvement?

BACKGROUND: Surgical management of splenic flexure carcinoma remains controversial. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to establish an expert international consensus on splenic flexure carcinoma management. DESIGN: A 3-round online-based Delphi study was conducted between September 2020 and April 2021. SETTING: The first round included 18 experts from 12 different countries. For the second and third rounds, each expert in the first round was asked to invite 2 more colorectal surgeons (n = 47). Out of 47 invited experts, 89% (n = 42) participated in the second and third rounds of the consensus. INTERVENTIONS: A total of 35 questions were created and sent via the online questionnaire tool. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Levels of recommendation based on voting concordance were graded as follows: more than 75% agreement was defined as strong, between 50% and 75% as moderate, and below 50% as weak. RESULTS: There was moderate consensus on the definition of splenic flexure (55%) as 10 cm from either side where the distal transverse colon turns into the proximal descending colon. Also, experts recommended an abdominopelvic CT scan plus intraoperative exploration (moderate consensus, 72%) for tumor localization and cancer registry. Segmental colectomy was the preferred technique for the management of splenic flexure carcinoma in the elective setting (72%). Moderate consensus was achieved on the technique of complete mesocolic excision and central vascular ligation principles for splenic flexure carcinoma (74%). Only strong consensus was achieved on the surgical approach for minimally invasive surgery (88%). LIMITATIONS: Subjective decisions are based on individual expert clinical experience and not evidence based. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first internationally conducted Delphi consensus study regarding splenic flexure carcinoma. The definition of splenic flexure remains ambiguous. To more effectively compare oncologic outcomes among different cancer registries, guidelines need to be developed to standardize each domain and avoid arbitrary definitions. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C143 . ESTANDARIZACIN DE LA DEFINICIN Y MANEJO QUIRRGICO DEL CARCINOMA DE NGULO ESPLNICO ESTABLECIDO POR UN CONSENSO INTERNACIONAL DE EXPERTOS UTILIZANDO LA TCNICA DELPHI ESPACIO PARA MEJORAR: ANTECEDENTES:El tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer de ángulo esplénico sigue siendo controvertido.OBJETIVO:Establecer un consenso internacional de expertos sobre el manejo del cáncer del ángulo esplénico.DISEÑO:Se condujo un estudio Delphi en línea de 3 rondas entre septiembre de 2020 y febrero de 2021.ESCENARIO:La primera ronda incluyó a 18 expertos de 12 países distintos. Para la segunda y tercera rondas, a cada experto de la primera ronda se le pidió que invitara a 2 cirujanos colorrectales más de su región (n = 47). De los 47 expertos invitados, el 89% (n = 42) participó en la segunda y tercera ronda del consenso.INTERVENCIONES:Se crearon y enviaron un total de 35 preguntas a través de la herramienta de cuestionario en línea.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Los niveles de recomendación basados en la concordancia de votos fueron jerarquizados de la siguiente manera: más del 75% de acuerdo se definió como fuerte, entre 50 y 75% como moderado y por debajo del 50% como débil.RESULTADOS:Hubo un consenso moderado sobre la definición de ángulo esplénico (55%) como 10 cm desde cualquier lado donde el colon transverso distal se convierte en el colon descendente proximal. Así también, los expertos recomendaron la tomografía computarizada abdominopélvica más la exploración intraoperatoria (consenso moderado, 72%) para la localización del tumor y el registro del ángulo esplénico. La colectomía segmentaria fue la técnica preferida para el tratamiento del cáncer de ángulo esplénico en el caso de ser electivo (72%). Se logró un consenso moderado sobre la técnica de escisión completa del mesocolon y los principios de ligadura vascular a nivel central para el cáncer de ángulo esplénico (74%). Solo se logró un fuerte consenso sobre el abordaje quirúrgico para la cirugía mínimamente invasiva (88%).LIMITACIONES:Decisiones subjetivas basadas en la experiencia clínica de expertos individuales y no basadas en evidencia.CONCLUSIONES:Este es el primer estudio internacional de consenso Delphi realizado sobre el cáncer de ángulo esplénico. Si bien encontramos un consenso moderado sobre las modalidades de diagnóstico preoperatorio y el manejo quirúrgico, la definición de ángulo esplénico sigue siendo ambigua. Para comparar de manera más efectiva los resultados oncológicos entre diferentes registros de cáncer, se deben desarrollar pautas para estandarizar cada dominio y evitar definiciones arbitrarias. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C143 . (Traducción-Dr. Osvaldo Gauto ).

Comparison of textbook versus three-dimensional animation versus cadaveric training videos in teaching laparoscopic rectal surgery: a prospective randomized trial.

AIM: The aim of this prospective randomized study was to compare the effectiveness of various educational tools in laparoscopic rectal surgery, including surgical textbooks, animation and cadaveric videos. METHOD: Initially, an electronic assessment test assessing knowledge of laparoscopic rectal surgery was created and validated. The test was sent to graduates completing a general surgery residency programme in Turkey, who were then randomized into four groups based on the type of study material. After a 4 week study period, the volunteers were asked to answer the same electronic assessment test imported into an edited live laparoscopic rectal surgery video. Pre- and posteducation assessment tests among the groups were compared. RESULTS: A total of 168 volunteers completed the pre-education assessment test and were randomized into four groups. Pre-education assessment test scores were similar among the groups (p > 0.05). Of 168 volunteers, 130 (77.3%) completed the posteducation assessment test. Posteducation assessment test scores were significantly higher in the three-dimensional (3D) animation + cadaveric video group (p < 0.01), the 3D animation group (p < 0.01) and the cadaveric group (p < 0.01) compared with the textbook group. Moreover, posteducation assessment test scores were significantly higher in the 3D animation + cadaveric video group than the 3D animation group (p < 0.01). Each group's posteducation assessment test scores were significantly higher than the pre-education assessment test scores, with the exception of the textbook group. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that 3D animation + cadaveric videos, 3D animation alone and cadaveric videos are all superior to a surgical textbook when teaching laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery. Finally, our results show that 3D animation and cadaveric videos are also superior to textbooks in enabling an understanding of rectal surgery.

Computer-based multimodal training module facilitates standardization of complete mesocolic excision technique for right-sided colon cancer: Long-term oncological outcomes.

AIM: The aim of this study is to demonstrate our video training tool developed to teach and standardize complete mesocolic excision (CME) for right-sided colon cancer and also to present our long-term oncological outcomes. METHOD: Educational narrative videos were produced to demonstrate the technical steps of CME. First, a three-dimensional animation video was prepared. Then cadaveric dissections were recorded in a step-by-step fashion, following the sequences of open and minimally invasive surgery. These were followed by videos of real-life demonstrations of surgical procedures, enhanced by superimposed animations of key anatomical structures. In order to demonstrate the impact of this training module on outcomes of patients undergoing CME, we retrospectively queried data from before (2005-2010) and after (2011-2019) implementation of standardized CME in our practice. RESULTS: A total of 180 consecutive patients underwent right hemicolectomy between 2005 and 2019. Fifty-four patients underwent surgery before and 126 patients after CME principles were elaborated and standardized. Of those patients who had surgery after the training module, 58 (46%) underwent open surgery and 68 (54%) underwent laparoscopic colectomy. Demographics, perioperative parameters and morbidity were comparable between the groups. The 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates were significantly improved after implementation of CME training (p = 0.059 and p = 0.041, respectively). Also, 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates for all patients were considerably better than our reported national outcomes. CONCLUSION: Our comprehensive step-by-step training video module for the CME technique demonstrates surgical anatomical planes and important vascular structures and variations. The video also helps standardization of the CME technique and should contribute to improved histopathological and oncological outcomes.

Platelet-rich plasma treatment improves postoperative recovery in patients with pilonidal sinus disease: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Pilonidal sinus is a common health problem. The current study aimed to compare the impact of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with that of minimally invasive techniques in terms of pain reduction, return to daily activities, quality of life, and duration of wound healing after open excision and secondary closure. METHODS: Patients who were over 18 years old and had chronic PS disease between March 2018 and January 2019 were enrolled and randomly divided into three groups. Open surgery and moist dressings were applied to patients in group A. Open surgery followed by PRP application was performed on patients in group B. Group C underwent curettage of the sinus cavity followed by application of PRP. In this prospective randomized controlled study, patients completed questionnaires (including the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP), Short Form-36 (SF-36) and clinical information) before and after surgery. Demographics, preoperative characteristics, healing parameters, and quality-of-life scores were evaluated and calculated before and after surgery. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The cavity volume and wound-healing time were compared among the groups on postoperative days 0, 2, 3, 4, and 21. Each patient was followed up throughout the process of wound healing, and follow-up was continued afterward to monitor the patients for recurrence. Due to the nature of the treatment that group C received, this group achieved shorter healing times and smaller cavity volume than the other groups. In contrast, the recovery time per unit of cavity volume was significantly faster in group B than in the other groups. Overall postoperative pain scores were significantly lower for both PRP groups (open surgery, group B; minimally invasive surgery, group C) than for group A (p < 0.001) and showed different time courses among the groups. In the treatment of PS disease, PRP application improves postoperative recovery in that it speeds patients' return to daily activities, reduces their pain scores and increases their quality of life. Trial registration The current study is registered on the public website ClinicalTrials.gov (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier number: NCT04697082; date: 05/01/2021).

An Effective Bundled Approach Reduces Surgical Site Infections in a High-Outlier Colorectal Unit.

BACKGROUND: Surgical site infections are the most common hospital-acquired infection after colorectal surgery, increasing morbidity, mortality, and hospital costs. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of preventive measures on colorectal surgical site infection rates in a high-volume institution that performs inherent high-risk procedures. DESIGN: This was a prospective cohort study. SETTINGS: The study was conducted at a high-volume, specialized colorectal surgery department. PATIENTS: The Prospective Surgical Site Infection Prevention Bundle Project included 14 preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative measures to reduce surgical site infection occurrence after colorectal surgery. Surgical site infections within 30 days of the index operation were examined for patients during the 1-year period after the surgical site infection prevention bundle was implemented. The data collection and outcomes for this period were compared with the year immediately before the implementation of bundle elements. All of the patients who underwent elective colorectal surgery by a total of 17 surgeons were included. The following procedures were excluded from the analysis to obtain a homogeneous patient population: ileostomy closure and anorectal and enterocutaneous fistula repair. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Surgical site infection occurring within 30 days of the index operation was measured. Surgical site infection-related outcomes after implementation of the bundle (bundle February 2014 to February 2015) were compared with same period a year before the implementation of bundle elements (prebundle February 2013 to February 2014). RESULTS: Between 2013 and 2015, 2250 abdominal colorectal surgical procedures were performed, including 986 (43.8%) during the prebundle period and 1264 (56.2%) after the bundle project. Patient characteristics and comorbidities were similar in both periods. Compliance with preventive measures ranged between 75% and 99% during the bundle period. The overall surgical site infection rate decreased from 11.8% prebundle to 6.6% at the bundle period (P < 0.001). Although a decrease for all types of surgical site infections was observed after the bundle implementation, a significant reduction was achieved in the organ-space subgroup (5.5%-1.7%; P < 0.001). LIMITATION: We were unable to predict the specific contributions the constituent bundle interventions made to the surgical site infection reduction. CONCLUSIONS: The prospective Surgical Site Infection Prevention Bundle Project resulted in a substantial decline in surgical site infection rates in our department. Collaborative and enduring efforts among multiple providers are critical to achieve a sustained reduction See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A438.

Extended Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis After Elective Surgery for IBD Patients: Nomogram-Based Risk Assessment and Prediction from Nationwide Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Identification of risk factors for postoperative venous thromboembolism is an important step to reduce the morbidity associated with this potentially preventable complication after elective surgery for patients with IBD. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the risk factors for 30-day venous thromboembolism after abdominal surgery for patients with venous thromboembolism, identify potential indications for extended thromboprophylaxis, and develop a nomogram for prediction of risk. DESIGN: This is a retrospective cohort study from a prospectively collected database. SETTING: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Participant User File from 2005 to 2016 was used for data analysis. PATIENTS: All patients with IBD undergoing elective abdominopelvic bowel surgery were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcomes were the incidence of in-hospital and postdischarge venous thromboembolism within 30 days of the index abdominopelvic surgery. RESULTS: A total of 24,182 patients met the inclusion criteria. Thirty-day total and postdischarge rates of venous thromboembolism were 2.5% (n = 614) and 1% (n =252). Forty-one percent (252/614) of venous thromboembolism events occurred after hospital discharge. Univariate analysis assessed 37 variables for association with study outcomes. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, older age, steroid use, bleeding disorders, open surgery, hypertension, longer operative time, and preoperative hospitalization were associated with venous thromboembolism before discharge and also postoperative transfusion, steroid use, pelvic and enterocutaneous fistula surgery, and longer operative time were associated with venous thromboembolism after discharge. A nomogram was constructed for each outcome, translating multivariate model parameter estimates into a visual scoring system where the estimated probability of venous thromboembolism can be calculated. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective nature and the limitations inherent to a database. CONCLUSION: Given the higher risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with IBD after elective abdominopelvic surgery compared with other indications, an accurate prediction of venous thromboembolism before and after discharge using the proposed nomogram can facilitate decision making for individualized extended thromboprophylaxis in the preoperative setting as a screening tool. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A711.

Experience in colon sparing surgery in North America: advanced endoscopic approaches for complex colorectal lesions.

BACKGROUND: Need for colon sparing interventions for premalignant lesions not amenable to conventional endoscopic excision has stimulated interest in advanced endoscopic approaches. The aim of this study was to report a single institution's experience with these techniques. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of a prospectively collected database of all patients referred between 2011 and 2015 for colorectal resection of benign appearing deemed endoscopically unresectable by conventional endoscopic techniques. Patients were counseled for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) with possible combined endoscopic-laparoscopic surgery (CELS) or alternatively colorectal resection if unable to resect endoscopically or suspicion for cancer. Lesion characteristic, resection rate, complications, and outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: 110 patients were analyzed [mean age 64 years, female gender 55 (50%), median body mass index 29.4 kg/m2]. Indications for interventions were large polyp median endoscopic size 3 cm (range 1.5-6.5) and/or difficult location [cecum (34.9%), ascending colon (22.7%), transverse colon (14.5%), hepatic flexure (11.8%), descending colon (6.3%), sigmoid colon (3.6%), rectum (3.6%), and splenic flexure (2.6%)]. Lesion morphology was sessile (N = 98, 93%) and pedunculated (N = 12, 7%). Successful endoscopic resection rate was 88.2% (N = 97): ESD in 69 patients and CELS in 28 patients. Complication rate was 11.8% (13/110) [delayed bleeding (N = 4), perforation (N = 3), organ-space surgical site infection (SSI) (N = 2), superficial SSI (N = 1), and postoperative ileus (N = 3)]. Out of 110 patients, 13 patients (11.8%) required colectomy for technical failure (7 patients) or carcinoma (6 patients). During a median follow-up of 16 months (range 6-41 months), 2 patients had adenoma recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Advanced endoscopic surgery appears to be a safe and effective alternative to colectomy for patients with complex premalignant lesions deemed unresectable with conventional endoscopic techniques.

Predictors of Anastomotic Leak in Elderly Patients After Colectomy: Nomogram-Based Assessment From the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Program Procedure-Targeted Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Elderly patients undergoing colorectal surgery have increasingly become under scrutiny by accounting for the largest fraction of geriatric postoperative deaths and a significant proportion of all postoperative complications, including anastomotic leak. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine predictors of anastomotic leak in elderly patients undergoing colectomy by creating a novel nomogram for simplistic prediction of anastomotic leak risk in a given patient. DESIGN: This study was a retrospective review. SETTINGS: The database review of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was conducted at a single institution. PATIENTS: Patients aged ≥65 years who underwent elective segmental colectomy with an anastomosis at different levels (abdominal or low pelvic) in 2012-2013 were identified from the multi-institutional procedure-targeted database. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: We constructed a stepwise multiple logistic regression model for anastomotic leak as an outcome; predictors were selected in a stepwise fashion using the Akaike information criterion. The validity of the nomogram was externally tested on elderly patients (≥65 years of age) from the 2014 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program colectomy-targeted database. RESULTS: A total of 10,392 patients were analyzed, and anastomotic leak occurred in 332 (3.2%). Of the patients who developed anastomotic leak, 192 (57.8%) were men (p < 0.001). Based on unadjusted analysis, factors associated with an increased risk of anastomotic leak were ASA score III and IV (p < 0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p = 0.004), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.003), smoking history (p = 0.014), weight loss (p = 0.013), previously infected wound (p = 0.005), omitting mechanical bowel preparation (p = 0.005) and/or preoperative oral antibiotic use (p < 0.001), and wounds classified as contaminated or dirty/infected (p = 0.008). Patients who developed anastomotic leak had a longer length of hospital stay (17 vs 7 d; p < 0.001) and operative time (191 vs 162 min; p < 0.001). A multivariate model and nomogram were created. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective nature and short-term follow-up (30 d). CONCLUSIONS: An accurate prediction of anastomotic leak affecting morbidity and mortality after colorectal surgery using the proposed nomogram may facilitate decision making in elderly patients for healthcare providers.

Risk factors associated with postoperative morbidity in over 500 colovesical fistula patients undergoing colorectal surgery: a retrospective cohort study from ACS-NSQIP database.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of various factors on 30-day postoperative morbidity in patients who underwent colorectal surgery (CRS) for colovesical fistula (CVF) in the elective and emergency settings. METHODS: Patients who underwent CRS for CVF between 2005 and 2013 were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database by using current procedural terminology codes. Demographics, perioperative, and operative factors were assessed and compared between two groups classified according to the presence or absence of postoperative complications. RESULTS: Five hundred twelve patients met the inclusion criteria [mean age of 61.4 (±14.7) years, female 214 (42%)]. Etiology of fistula was diverticulitis [N = 438 (85.5%)], colon cancer [N = 39 (7.6%)], and Crohn's disease [N = 35 (6.8%)]. One hundred fifty-two procedures (29.7%) were performed laparoscopically. In 186 patients (36%), no bladder intervention was performed. One hundred forty-nine patients (29.1%) had at least one postoperative complication. Patients who developed complication were older (P = <0.001), more often female (P = <0.001), hypertensive (P = 0.005), anemic (P = <0.001), preoperatively transfused (P = 0.02), and with class 2-3 wound classification (P = 0.01). Independent risk factors affecting morbidity were increased age [odds ratio (OR) 1.23 (1.03-1.47), P = 0.01], decreased hematocrit level [OR 3.04(1.83-5.06), P < 0.0001], and open approach [OR 2.56 (1.35-4.84), P = 0.003]. CONCLUSIONS: Morbidity for CVF remains high. Lower preoperative hematocrit level and increased age were associated with higher risk of complication. Laparoscopic surgery may be preferable when possible as morbidity is less with this approach.

Does stoma site specimen extraction increase postoperative ileostomy complication rates?

BACKGROUND: Minimizing incisions has the potential to decrease hernia formation and wound complications following laparoscopic surgery. It is currently unknown if using the stoma site for specimen extraction affects outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the impact of stoma site extraction on postoperative complication rates in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. METHODS: After IRB approval, a retrospective comparative review of 738 consecutive patients (405 M) who underwent laparoscopic colorectal surgery with ileostomy between January 2008 and December 2014 was performed. Patients who had a minimally invasive surgery that required an ileostomy were included. Patients were classified into two groups: stoma site extraction (SSE) or non-stoma site extraction (NSSE) and compared by body mass index (BMI), age, comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, length of stay, estimated blood loss, parastomal complications, and hernia rate. RESULTS: The parastomal hernia rate was 10.1% for the SSE group (n = 14) and 4.2% for the NSSE group (n = 25) (p = 0.007). The need for additional surgeries was 7/139 (5.0%) for the SSE group and 27/599 (4.5%) for the NSSE group (p = 0.79). There was no difference in the hernia rate after stoma closure in either group. There was no difference in single incision laparoscopic surgery versus conventional laparoscopy or robotic-assisted laparoscopy on stoma site complications in patients with SSE. SSE, transfusion, and BMI >30 were found to be independent factors associated with increased stoma site complications. CONCLUSION: SSE does increase stoma site complications. SSE should be used with caution, or in conjunction with other techniques to reduce hernias in patients requiring a permanent stoma or with an elevated BMI. The increase in stoma site complications does not translate into additional surgeries or postoperative sequelae following stoma reversal and is a reasonable option in patients requiring a temporary stoma.

Impact of the Specific Extraction-Site Location on the Risk of Incisional Hernia After Laparoscopic Colorectal Resection.

BACKGROUND: The impact of the specific incision used for specimen extraction during laparoscopic colorectal surgery on incisional hernia rates relative to other contributing factors remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the relationship between extraction-site location and incisional hernia after laparoscopic colorectal surgery. DESIGN: This was a retrospective cohort study (January 2000 through December 2011). SETTINGS: The study was conducted at a high-volume, specialized colorectal surgery department. PATIENTS: All of the patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal resection were identified from our prospectively maintained institutional database. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Extraction-site and port-site incisional hernias clinically detected by physician or detected on CT scan were collected. Converted cases, defined as the use of a midline incision to perform the operation, were kept in the intent-to-treat analysis. Specific extraction-site groups were compared, and other relevant factors associated with incisional hernia rates were also evaluated with univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: A total of 2148 patients (54.0% with abdominal and 46.0% with pelvic operations) with a mean age of 51.7 ± 18.2 years (52% women) were reviewed. Used extraction sites were infraumbilical midline (23.7%), stoma site/right or left lower quadrant (15%), periumbilical midline (22.5%), and Pfannenstiel (29.6%) and midline converted (9.2%). Overall crude extraction site incisional hernia rate during a mean follow-up of 5.9 ± 3.0 years was 7.2% (n = 155). Extraction-site incisional hernia crude rates were highest after periumbilical midline (12.6%) and a midline incision used for conversion to open surgery (12.0%). Independent factors associated with extraction-site incisional hernia were any extraction sites compared with Pfannenstiel (periumbilical midline HR = 12.7; midline converted HR = 13.1; stoma site HR = 28.4; p < 0.001 for each), increased BMI (HR = 1.23; p = 0.002), synchronous port-site hernias (HR = 3.66; p < 0.001), and postoperative superficial surgical-site infection (HR = 2.11; p < 0.001). LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective nature, incisional hernia diagnoses based on clinical examination, and heterogeneous surgical population. CONCLUSIONS: Preferential extraction sites to minimize incisional hernia rates should be Pfannenstiel or incisions off the midline. Midline incisions should be avoided when possible.

Fistula tract curettage and the use of biological dermal plugs improve high transsphincteric fistula healing in an animal model.

PURPOSE: The treatment of high transsphincteric fistula is a complex procedure, which may be associated with the risk of recurrence and fecal incontinence. In this study, we used an animal model to compare different types of sphincter-preserving treatments for transsphincteric fistula. METHODS: Sixteen female New Zealand rabbits, weighing 2.8-4.8 kg underwent a surgical creation of high transsphincteric fistula. After 6 weeks, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed in order to confirm fistula formation and measure the fistula diameter. The rabbits were divided into three groups. Group 1 received no plug treatment (control). Autologous dermal graft and acellular dermal matrix were used as a plug in groups 2 and 3, respectively. Five weeks after treatment, fistula tract healing was determined by measuring the largest fistula diameter with MRI. All rabbits were euthanized and the anorectum excised en bloc for histopathological examination. RESULTS: According to the MRI findings, all groups showed significant healing after the treatment (p < 0.05). The healing rate of fistula diameters after treatment was 40, 66, and 29% in the control, dermal graft, and acellular dermal matrix groups, respectively. In terms of negative healing parameters such as neutrophil, eosinophil, lymphocyte, and plasmocyte accumulation, dermal graft and acellular dermal matrix groups showed significantly lower results than those in the control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: According to MRI and histopathological results, fistula tract curettage and fistula orifice closure improved transsphincteric anal fistula healing. Additionally, in this study, plug treatment favoring autologous dermal graft resulted in better healing.

Laparoscopic IPAA is not associated with decreased rates of incisional hernia and small-bowel obstruction when compared with open technique: long-term follow-up of a case-matched study.

BACKGROUND: There are scant data on the presumed reduction of small-bowel obstruction and incisional hernia rates associated with laparoscopic IPAA. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare long-term outcomes after open vs laparoscopic IPAA based on a previous study from our institution. DESIGN: This was a retrospective cohort study (from January 1992 through December 2007). SETTINGS: The study was conducted in a high-volume, specialized colorectal surgery department. PATIENTS: Patients included those who were enrolled in a previous institutional case-matched (2:1) study that examined 238 open and 119 laparoscopic IPAAs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Long-term complications, including incisional hernia clinically detected by physician, adhesive small-bowel obstruction requiring hospital admission and surgery, pouch excision, and pouchitis rates, were collected. Laparoscopic abdominal colectomy followed by rectal dissection under direct vision (lower midline or Pfannenstiel incision) and converted cases were analyzed within the laparoscopic group. RESULTS: Groups were comparable with respect to age, sex, BMI, and extent of resection (completion proctectomy vs proctocolectomy), consistent with the original case matching. Mean follow-up was significantly longer in the open group (9.6 vs 8.1 years; p = 0.008). Open and laparoscopic operations were associated with similar incidences of incisional hernia (8.4% vs 5.9%; p = 0.40), small-bowel obstruction requiring hospital admission (26.1% vs 29.4%; p = 0.50), and small-bowel obstruction requiring surgery (8.4% vs 11.8%; p = 0.31). A subgroup analysis comparing 50 patients with laparoscopic rectal dissection versus 69 patients with rectal dissection under direct vision confirmed statistically similar incidences of incisional hernia, hospital admission, and surgery for small-bowel obstruction. LIMITATIONS: This study was limited by its retrospective nature. CONCLUSIONS: Some of the anticipated long-term benefits of laparoscopic IPAA could not be demonstrated in this cohort. The lack of such long-term benefits should be discussed with patients when proposing a laparoscopic approach.

Comparison of Postoperative Outcomes and Long-Term Survival Rates between Patients Who Underwent Robotic and Laparoscopic Complete Mesocolic Excision for Right-Sided Colon Cancer.

Introduction: Right colon cancer often requires surgical intervention, and complete mesocolic excision (CME) has emerged as a standard procedure. The study aims to evaluate and compare the safety and efficacy of robotic and laparoscopic CME for patients with right colon cancer and 5-year survival rates examined to determine the outcomes. Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent CME for right-sided colon cancer between 2014 and 2021 were included in this study. Group differences of age, body mass index, operation time, bleeding amount, total harvested lymph nodes, and postoperative stay were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney U test. Group differences of sex, American Society of Anesthesiology, and tumor, node, and metastasis stage were analyzed by the Chi-squared test. Disease-free and overall survival were assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves with the log-rank Mantel-Cox test. Results: From 109 patients, 74 of them were 1:1 propensity score matched and used for analysis. Total harvested lymph node (P ≤ .001) and estimated blood loss (P = .031) were found to be statistically significant between the groups. We found no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of disease-free and overall survival (P = .27, .86, respectively), and the mortality rate was 9.17%, with no deaths directly attributed to the surgery. Conclusions: Study shows that minimally invasive surgery is a feasible option for CME in right colon cancers, with acceptable overall survival rates. Although the robotic approach has a higher lymph node yield, there was no significant difference in survival rates. Further randomized trials are needed to determine the clinical significance of both approaches.