Intestinal glucose excretion: A potential mechanism for glycemic control

The gut has been increasingly recognized in recent years as a pivotal organ in the maintenance of glucose homeostasis. Specifically, the profound and enduring improvement in glucose metabolism achieved through metabolic surgery to modify the anatomy of the gut has prompted scholars to acknowledge that the most effective strategy for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) involves the gut. The mechanisms underlying the regulation of glucose metabolism by the gut encompass gut hormones, bile acids, intestinal gluconeogenesis, gut microbiota, and signaling interactions between the gut and other organs (liver, brain, adipose, etc.). Recent studies have also revealed a novel phenomenon of glucose lowering through the gut: metabolic surgery and metformin promote the excretion of glucose from the circulation into the intestinal lumen by enterocytes. However, there is still limited understanding regarding the underlying mechanisms of intestinal glucose excretion and its contribution to glycemic control. This article reviews current research on intestinal glucose excretion while focusing on its role in T2DM management as well as potential mechanisms.

Anatomic patterns and clinical significance of gastrocolic trunk of Henlé in laparoscopic right colectomy for colon cancer: Results of the HeLaRC trial

BACKGROUND

Recent interest in laparoscopic right colectomy with D3 lymphadenectomy for right colon cancer, has raised renewed attention to the anatomic variations of the gastrocolic trunk of Henlé (GTH). Understanding the vascular structure of the GTH region for individual patients should improve surgical outcomes. The goal of this nationwide multicenter study (Anatomical Classification of Henlé's Trunk in Laparoscopic Right Hemi-colectomy (HeLaRC) trial) was to study the anatomic patterns of the GTH region, to clarify the implications of GTH in laparoscopic right colectomy with D3 lymphadenectomy (D3-RC) and analyze their clinical significance.

METHODS

We enrolled 583 patients from 26 centers across China who underwent D3-RC. The number of tributaries, length and types of GTH constitutions and their influence on intra-operative data were investigated. A nomogram score (based on the length of GTH, body mass index (BMI), tumor location, T stage and type of GTH (type I vs. non-type I) was established to assess the potential hazard of bleeding.

RESULTS

The GTH was found in 567 patients (97.3%). The distribution of GTH types was 0 (14.1%, n = 80), I (53.3%, n = 302), II (27.0%, n = 153), III (5.6%, n = 32). Of note, the type I GTH, T1 stage and tumor location at ileocecal or ascending colon were correlated with shorter exposure time of the GTH region (P < 0.0001). Short length of GTH (P = 0.002) and tumor location (transverse colon vs. non transverse colon) (P = 0.003) were correlated with the amount of GTH bleeding during the surgery. Nomogram discrimination was good (C-index: 0.72 (95% CI: 0.64, 0.80)). The dissection plane was better in patients with type I GTH than with other types (P = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

GTH pattern variations may affect surgical outcomes in patients undergoing D3-RC. Better recognition of GTH anatomy might lead to a safer operation with better oncologic quality.

The impact of postoperative complications severity on stoma reversal following sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Currently, the relationship between temporary stoma reversal and the severity of postoperative complications (POCs) after the index surgery based on the Clavien-Dindo classification has not yet been explored.

METHODS

From July 2010 to June 2016, 380 patients undergoing sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer with a temporary stoma in our hospital were included. Temporary stoma nonclosure rates, disease-free survival rates, and overall survival rates were estimated utilizing the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Of all the 380 patients, primary stomas were created in 335 patients and secondary stomas in 45 patients. After the index surgery, 36.6% (139/380) of patients developed at least one postoperative complication. In the first analysis, which included all the patients, 24.7% of temporary stomas remained unclosed. In the second analysis for 335 patients with a primary stoma, 23.3% were left with unclosed stomas. After the COX regression analysis, both major POCs and minor POCs were found to be independent risk factors for the permanent stoma, and there was an increasing tendency toward the risk of permanent stoma with the increase in POC severity.

CONCLUSION

POCs are independent predictors of permanent stoma after rectal cancer surgery. Even minor POCs may affect the outcome, while there is a clear direct relationship between POC severity and permanent stoma rates.

Preservation versus nonpreservation of the left colic artery in anterior resection for rectal cancer: a propensity score-matched analysis

BACKGROUND

Preserving the left colic artery (LCA) during anterior resection for rectal cancer is controversial, and robust evidence of the outcomes of LCA preservation plus apical lymph node dissection is lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of LCA preservation plus apical lymph node dissection surgery on anastomotic leakage and number of harvested lymph nodes.

METHODS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic anterior resection for rectal cancer between September 2017 and May 2020 were retrospectively assessed. The patients were categorized into two groups: preservation of LCA and nonpreservation of LCA. A one-to-one propensity score-matched analysis was performed to decrease confounding. The primary outcome was anastomotic leakage within 30 days after surgery. The secondary outcomes were number of harvested lymph nodes, 3-year overall survival, and 3-year disease-free survival.

RESULTS

A total of 216 patients were eligible for this study, and propensity score matching yielded 60 patients in each group. Anastomotic leakage in the LCA preservation group was significantly lower than that in the LCA nonpreservation group (3.3% vs. 13.3%, P = 0.048). No significant differences were observed in blood loss, operation time, intraoperative complications, splenic flexure mobilization, total number of harvested lymph nodes, number of positive lymph nodes, time to first flatus, or postoperative hospital stay. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a 3-year disease-free survival of 85.7% vs. 80.5% (P = 0.738) and overall survival of 92.4% vs. 93.7% (P = 0.323) for the preservation and nonpreservation groups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

LCA preservation plus apical lymph node dissection surgery for rectal cancer may help reduce the incidence of anastomotic leakage without impairing the number of harvested lymph nodes. Preliminary results suggest that 3-year disease-free survival and overall survival rates may not differ between the two types of surgery, but studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these conclusions. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03776370. Registered 14 December 2018-Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov .

Effect of bariatric surgery versus medical therapy on long-term cardiovascular risk in low BMI Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes: a propensity score-matched analysis

BACKGROUND

Reducing the risk of death due to cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an important direction for diabetes prevention and treatment. The Chinese population with type 2 diabetes (T2D) has a high risk of developing CVD at relatively low body mass index (BMI) levels. Currently, no studies have evaluated the effect of bariatric surgery versus medical therapy on long-term CVD risk in patients with T2D and low BMI.

OBJECTIVES

To compare bariatric surgery versus medical therapy for long-term CVD risk in Chinese patients with T2D and low BMI by using the China Prediction for ASCVD Risk equations and the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study risk engine.

SETTING

University hospital, China.

METHODS

Medical records of patients with T2D with a BMI <35 kg/m² undergoing bariatric surgery or medical therapy from May 2010 to December 2018 were reviewed. A 1:1 propensity score matching was performed by using 7 preoperative characteristics. Variables for calculating CVD risk scores over the 5-year follow-up were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 684 patients with T2D underwent bariatric surgery (n = 75) or medical therapy (n = 609), and 52 pairs of matched subjects were selected from both groups after propensity score matching. The 10-year and lifetime atherosclerotic CVD risk by using the China Prediction for ASCVD Risk equation at 5 years follow-up period in the bariatric surgery group improved significantly compared with the medical therapy group. In the fifth year of follow-up, the 10-year risk of coronary heart disease, fatal coronary heart disease, stroke, and fatal stroke by using the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study risk engine were much lower in the bariatric surgery group than in the medical therapy group (10.37 ± 5.64% versus 27.25 ± 7.28%, P = .004; 6.3 ± 4.5% versus 22.3 ± 7.35%, P = .002; 4.97 ± 3.73% versus 15.05 ± 3.63%, P = .001; .59 ± .45% versus 1.52 ± .14%, P < .001. respectively). The use of glucose-lowering medications, including insulin, was reduced from baseline in both groups, and patients in the bariatric surgery group required significantly fewer of these medications than those in the medical therapy group.

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery in patients with T2D and low BMI conferred a lower calculated risk of CVD compared with medical therapy over 5 years of follow-up.

Transanal Drainage Tube Use for Preventing Anastomotic Leakage After Laparoscopic Low Anterior Resection in Patients With Rectal Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Preventing anastomotic leakage (AL) is crucial for colorectal surgery. Some studies have suggested a positive role of transanal drainage tubes (TDTs) in AL prevention after low anterior resection, but this finding is controversial.

Objective

To assess the effect of TDTs in AL prevention after laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter randomized clinical trial with parallel groups (TDT vs non-TDT) was performed from February 26, 2016, to September 30, 2020. Participants included patients from 7 different hospitals in China who were undergoing laparoscopic low anterior resection with the double-stapling technique for mid-low rectal cancer; 576 patients were initially enrolled in this study, and 16 were later excluded. Ultimately, 560 patients were randomly divided between the TDT and non-TDT groups.

Interventions

A silicone tube was inserted through the anus, and the tip of the tube was placed approximately 5 cm above the anastomosis under laparoscopy at the conclusion of surgery. The tube was fixed with a skin suture and connected to a drainage bag. The TDT was scheduled for removal 3 to 7 days after surgery.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was the postoperative AL rate within 30 days.

Results

In total, 576 patients were initially enrolled in this study; 16 of these patients were excluded. Ultimately, 560 patients were randomly divided between the TDT group (n = 280; median age, 61.5 years [IQR, 54.0-68.8 years]; 177 men [63.2%]) and the non-TDT group (n = 280; median age, 62.0 years [IQR, 52.0-69.0 years]; 169 men [60.4%]). Intention-to-treat analysis showed no significant difference between the TDT and non-TDT groups in AL rates (18 [6.4%] vs 19 [6.8%]; relative risk, 0.947; 95% CI, 0.508-1.766; P = .87) or AL grades (grade B, 14 [5.0%] and grade C, 4 [1.4%] vs grade B, 11 [3.9%] and grade C, 8 [2.9%]; P = .43). In the stratified analysis based on diverting stomas, there was no significant difference in the AL rate between the groups, regardless of whether a diverting stoma was present (without stoma, 12 [5.8%] vs 15 [7.9%], P = .41; and with stoma, 6 [8.3%] vs 4 [4.5%], P = .50). Anal pain was the most common complaint from patients in the TDT group (130 of 280, 46.4%). Accidental early TDT removal occurred in 20 patients (7.1%), and no bleeding or iatrogenic colonic perforations were detected.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results from this randomized clinical trial indicated that TDTs may not confer any benefit for AL prevention in patients who undergo laparoscopic low anterior resection for mid-low rectal cancer without preoperative radiotherapy.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02686567.

[Incidence and risk factors of anastomotic leak after transanal total mesorectal excision in China: a retrospective analysis based on national database]

Objective: Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) was a very hot topic in the first few years since its appearance, but now more introspections and controversies on this procedure have emerged. One of the reasons why the Norwegian Ministry of Health stopped taTME was the high incidence of postoperative anastomotic leak. In current study, the incidence and risk factors of anastomotic leak after taTME were analyzed based on the data registered in the Chinese taTME Registry Collaborative (CTRC). Methods: A case-control study was carried out. Between November 15, 2017 and December 31, 2020, clinical data of 1668 patients undergoing taTME procedure registered in the CTRC database from 43 domestic centers were collected retrospectively. After excluding 98 cases without anastomosis and 109 cases without complete postoperative complication data, 1461 patients were finally enrolled for analysis. There were 1036 males (70.9%) and 425 females (29.1%) with mean age of (58.2±15.6) years and mean body mass index of (23.6±3.8) kg/m(2). Anastomotic leak was diagnosed and classified according to the International Study Group of Rectal Cancer (ISREC) criteria. The risk factors associated with postoperative anastomotic leak cases were analyzed. The impact of the cumulative number of taTME surgeries in a single center on the incidence of anastomotic leak was evaluated. As for those centers with the number of taTME surgery ≥ 40 cases, incidence of anastomic leak between 20 cases of taTME surgery in the early and later phases was compared. Results: Of 1461 patients undergoing taTME, 103(7.0%) developed anastomotic leak, including 71 (68.9%) males and 32 (31.1%) females with mean age of (59.0±13.9) years and mean body mass index of (24.5±5.7) kg/m(2). The mean distance between anastomosis site and anal verge was (2.6±1.4) cm. Thirty-nine cases (37.9%) were classified as ISREC grade A, 30 cases (29.1%) as grade B and 34 cases (33.0%) as grade C. Anastomotic leak occurred in 89 cases (7.0%,89/1263) in the laparoscopic taTME group and 14 cases (7.1%, 14/198) in the pure taTME group. Multivariate analysis showed that hand-sewn anastomosis (P=0.004) and the absence of defunctioning stoma (P=0.013) were independently associated with anastomotic leak after taTME. In the 16 centers (37.2%) which performed ≥ 30 taTME surgeries with cumulative number of 1317 taTME surgeries, 86 cases developed anastomotic leak (6.5%, 86/1317). And in the 27 centers which performed less than 30 taTME surgeries with cumulative number of 144 taTME surgeries, 17 cases developed anastomotic leak (11.8%, 17/144). There was significant difference between two kinds of center (χ(2)=5.513, P=0.019). Thirteen centers performed ≥ 40 taTME surgeries. In the early phase (the first 20 cases in each center), 29 cases (11.2%, 29/260) developed anastomotic leak, and in the later phase, 12 cases (4.6%, 12/260) developed anastomotic leak. The difference between the early phase and the later phase was statistically significant (χ(2)=7.652, P=0.006). Conclusion: The incidence of anastomotic leak after taTME may be reduced by using stapler and defunctioning stoma, or by accumulating experience.

Achieving blood pressure targets and antihypertensive effects through metabolic surgery in type 2 diabetes patients with hypertension

AIMS

The effect of metabolic surgery compared with that of conventional therapy on target blood pressure (BP)and defined daily dose (DDD) of antihypertensive drugs in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients with hypertension remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the differences in target BP and DDD between metabolic surgery and conventional treatment in T2DM patients with hypertension.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective study of 535 diabetes patients who underwent metabolic surgery (n = 112) and medical treatment (n = 423). Changes in the target BP from baseline to every follow-up were analysed.

RESULTS

Metabolic surgery decreased both office systolic and diastolic BP (DBP) and also significantly reduced ambulatory systolic BP (SBP; 132 ± 2 vs. 119 ± 1 mmHg, p < 0.0001), but not DBP (78 ± 1 vs. 76 ± 1 mmHg, p = 0.177). Patients maintained their SBP at <120 mmHg after 2 years (50% vs. 1.9%, p < 0.0001). Moreover, the rate of achieving the target SBP of 130 and 140 mmHg was also significantly higher in the surgery group, and this started from the initial 6 months after commencing treatment to the end of follow-up. The dosage (DDD: 1.44 ± 0.65 vs. 0.32 ± 0.05, p < 0.001) of antihypertensive medication was significantly decreased after metabolic surgery. Furthermore, metabolic surgery, but not medical treatment, markedly improved the risks of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolic surgery can effectively achieve the BP target and reduce the usage of antihypertensive medications as well as improve multiple metabolic dysfunction in T2DM patients with hypertension. This study provides an alternative approach to antagonize the metabolic related hypertension.

[Preliminary application and efficacy analysis of transumbilical single-incision plus one port robotic total mesorectal excision]

Objective: To investigate the feasibility of transumbilical single-incision plus one port (SIPOP) robotic total mesorectal excision. Methods: Clinical data of a 70-year-old male patient with BMI 22.1 kg/m(2) who successfully underwent transumbilical single-incision plus 1 port robotic total mesorectal resection of upper rectal cancer at the General Surgery Department of Daping Hospital of Army Military Medical University on September 18, 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative colonoscopy revealed that the distance of upper rectal cancer to anal edge was 14 cm, and the tumor size was 2.5 cm×1.5 cm×1 cm. Pathological result confirmed rectal moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma. The preoperative abdominal CT showed thickened bowel-wall of upper rectum and the blurred perirectal fat, suggesting tumor infiltration. Results: The operation was successful. There were no conversion to laparotomy or abdominal auxiliary incision, and the mesorectum of the specimen was intact. The operation time was 165 minutes, the blood loss was about 20 ml, and there were no complications such as injury to peripheral organs. Postoperative pathology showed ulcerative moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma of the upper rectum with TNM stage IVA (T4N2b). The postoperative recovery was smooth. Patient ambulated on the 1st day, the catheter was removed on the 7th day, and discharged from the hospital on the 8th day. Conclusion: The transumbilical SIPOP robotic total mesorectal excision is safe, effective and feasible.

Effect of Physical Activity on the Association Between Dietary Fiber and Constipation: Evidence From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2010

Background/Aims

The effect of physical activity on the relationship between dietary fiber intake and constipation has not been comprehensively studied. This study aims to explore the impact of physical activity.

Methods

Data were obtained from 3 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2010 and included a total of 13 941 participants aged ≥ 20 years. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the independent association between dietary fiber and constipation. Interaction analysis was also performed to analyze the relationship between dietary fiber and constipation in different physical activity groups.

Results

Among non-active participants, dietary fiber intake did not associate with stool consistency (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.98-1.05; P = 0.407). For physically active participants, 1-gram unit increase in dietary fiber intake reduced the risk of stool consistency by 3% (OR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.94-0.99; P = 0.020). Moreover, the relationship between dietary fiber intake and stool consistency was significantly different for groups with different levels of physical activity (P interaction = 0.044). However, dietary fiber intake was not related to stool frequency among non-active participants (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.94-1.05; P = 0.767) nor physically active participants (OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.97-1.04; P = 0.751).

Conclusions

Increasing dietary fiber intake was associated with stool consistency-related constipation among physically active participants, but not among non-active participants. However, increasing dietary fiber intake is not significantly associated with stool frequency in different physical activity groups.

Transanal vs laparoscopic total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer: a multicenter randomized phase III clinical trial (TaLaR trial) protocol

Background

Total mesorectum excision (TME) is considered the standard surgical procedure for rectal-cancer treatment. Transanal TME (taTME) is a new procedure to treat low rectal cancer. Some published studies have proven that taTME can provide a better-quality resected specimen in low-rectal-cancer patients in comparison to the transabdominal procedure, yet long-term outcomes must be investigated. We designed this non-inferiority trial (TaLaR trial) to compare short-term and long-term outcomes between taTME and laparoscopic TME (lapTME) for rectal cancer.

Methods

The TaLaR trial is a phase III open-labeled multicenter randomized–controlled trial. Patients who are diagnosed with rectal cancer with no more than T3N2 stage, and with the tumor location below the peritoneal reflection by magnetic resonance imaging scan, digital rectal examination, or colonoscopy, qualify for this study. After calculating, a total of 1,114 patients (557 per group) will be randomly allocated to either the taTME or the lapTME group. Primary endpoints are the 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate and the 5-year overall survival (OS) rate. Secondary endpoints include specimen quality, perioperative results, pelvic and anal function, and quality of life.

Discussion

The TaLaR trial is expected to clarify whether taTME can achieve comparable oncological outcomes, as well as improve specimen quality and recovery conditions in rectal-cancer patients compared with lapTME.

Abdominal ventral rectopexy with colectomy for obstructed defecation syndrome: An alternative option for selected patients

BACKGROUND

Abdominal ventral rectopexy (AVR) with colectomy is controversial in the treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS). Literature data on this technique for ODS are very limited.

AIM

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of AVR with colectomy for selected patients with ODS.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent AVR with colectomy for ODS were identified prospectively from 2016 to 2017 in our department. Patient demographics, perioperative surgical results, and postoperative follow-up outcomes were collected and analyzed. Long-term follow-up was evaluated with standardized questionnaires. The severity of symptoms was assessed by the objective Wexner Constipation Score (WCS) and ODS Score. The quality of life was assessed by the Patients Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life score. Functional outcome was compared pre- and post-operatively for each patient. The primary outcomes were determined by the improvement in symptoms and quality of life. Secondary outcome measures were operating time, postoperative length of stay, morbidity and mortality, improvement of pelvic floor structure, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Four patients underwent robotic-assisted surgery, and two patients underwent a laparoscopic-assisted procedure. The mean operating time for the robotic approach was 243 min (range 160–300 min), and the mean operating time for the laparoscopic approach was 230 min (range 220-240 min). The mean postoperative length of stay was 8.2 d (range 6-12 d). There was no conversion to open procedure and no postoperative mortality. No urinary retention, wound infection, prolonged ileus, pelvic infection and anastomosis leakage occurred. Six patients were followed up for 36 mo. The WCS, ODS, and Patients Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life score improved significantly postoperatively (P < 0.05). The WCS and ODS scores showed the best remission and stabilization at 6 to 12 mo after surgery. There was no recurrence or novel constipation after surgery. None of the patients used laxative medication.

CONCLUSION

Robotic and laparoscopic-assisted ventral rectopexy with colectomy is a safe and effective procedure for selected patients with ODS. However, comprehensive preoperative evaluation and careful patient selection are essential.

Comparison of transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) versus laparoscopic TME for rectal cancer: A case matched study

BACKGROUND

Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) has been developed to improve the quality of laparoscopic TME for patients with rectal cancer. Recently, international concern on TaTME was raised by a national cohort study showing an increased rate of local recurrences. This study aimed to compare clinicopathological and mid-term oncological outcomes of TaTME versus laparoscopic TME (LaTME) for mid and low rectal cancer of a high volume center.

METHODS

From August 2014 to October 2019, patients with mid or low rectal cancer who received TaTME procedure were identified. The cases were matched with patients treated with LaTME. Data were retrospectively collected including operative details, postoperative morbidity, pathologic results, and oncologic outcomes. Primary endpoint was the local recurrence (LR) rate.

RESULTS

Propensity score matching yielded 70 patients in each of the groups. There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of postoperative complications, conversion rate to open surgery and circumferential resection margin. Local recurrence occurred in 2 patients (2.9%) in the transanal group, whereas 1 patient developed a local recurrence in the laparoscopic group (1.4%)(p = 0.559). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a 2 year Local recurrence rate 1.5% VS 1.6%(p = 0.934), DFS 88.0% VS 87.7%, OS 94.0% vs 100% for transanal and laparoscopic group, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In a high volume center the transanal total mesorectal procedure is feasible, and appears to be safe alternative to laparoscopic surgery. Oncological outcomes were acceptable and no increased multi or unifocal local recurrence rate was found.

Robotic colorectal cancer surgery in China: a nationwide retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Robotic colorectal cancer surgery is widely accepted and applied. However, there is still no objective and comprehensive assessment on the data of nationwide multicenter series.

METHOD

A total of 28 medical centers in Mainland China participated in this nationwide retrospective observational study. From the first case performed in each center to the last until December 2017, patients with robotic resection for primary tumor and pathologically confirmed colorectal adenocarcinoma were consecutively enrolled. Clinical, pathological and follow-up data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 5389 eligible patients were finally enrolled in this study, composing 72.2% of the total robotic colorectal surgery volume of Mainland China in the same period. For resections of one bowel segment of primary tumor, the postoperative mortality rate was 0.08% (4/5063 cases), and the postoperative complication rate (Clavien-Dindo grade II or higher) was 8.6% (434/5063 cases). For multiple resections, the postoperative mortality rate was 0.6% (2/326 cases), and the postoperative complication rate was 16.3% (53/326 cases). Out of 2956 patients receiving sphincter-preserving surgery in only primary resection, 130 (4.4%) patients had anastomotic leakage. Traditional low anterior resection (tumor at middle rectum) (OR 2.384, P < 0.001), traditional low anterior resection (tumor at low rectum) (OR 1.968, P = 0.017) and intersphincteric resection (OR 5.468, P = 0.006) were significant independent risk factors for anastomotic leakage. Female gender (OR 0.557, P = 0.005), age ≥ 60 years (OR 0.684, P = 0.040), and preventive stoma (OR 0.496, P = 0.043) were significant independent protective factors. Body mass index, preoperative chemotherapy/radiotherapy, tumor size, and TNM stage did not independently affect the occurrence of anastomotic leakage.

CONCLUSION

Robotic colorectal cancer surgery was safe and reliable and might have advantages in patients at high risk of anastomotic leakage.

Impact of metabolic surgery on 10-year cardiovascular disease risk in Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

In recent years, many reports have highlighted that metabolic surgery may ameliorate the cardiovascular risk in morbidly obese patients with or without type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, few studies have evaluated the long-term cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk after metabolic surgery in T2D patients with a low body mass index (BMI).

OBJECTIVES

To use the Prediction for ASCVD Risk in China (China-PAR) equations and United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) risk engine to assess the 10-year CVD risk in low-BMI T2D patients after metabolic surgery.

SETTING

University hospital, China.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our prospectively collected data of T2D patients who underwent metabolic surgery at our hospital between 2010 and 2018. We included patients who met the criteria for calculating a 10-year cardiovascular risk score by the China-PAR equations and UKPDS risk engine. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric variables, and glycolipid metabolic parameters were assessed preoperatively and during a 4-year follow-up period. Patients with a BMI < 30 kg/m² were compared with those with a BMI > 30 kg/m².

RESULTS

We evaluated 117 patients, of whom 62 (53%) had a BMI < 30 kg/m² and 55 (47%) had a BMI > 30 kg/m². Patients with a BMI < 30 kg/m² were significantly older and had a longer duration of diabetes. The rate of complete T2D remission in the group of patients with BMIs < 30 kg/m² was significantly lower than that in the group with BMIs > 30 kg/m² (35.2% versus 56.1%, respectively; P = .042). The overall 10-year and lifetime atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risks were reduced from 4.2% to 2.3% and 25.3% to 13.9%, respectively (both P < .05), at 1 year postoperatively using the China-PAR equation. The overall 10-year coronary heart disease (CHD) and fatal CHD risks were reduced by 48.1% and 53.1%, respectively, at 1 year after surgery using the UKPDS risk engine. The advantages of metabolic surgery in reducing CVD risks are similar in both BMI groups, whether using the China-PAR equation or the UKPDS risk engine.

CONCLUSION

The 10-year CVD risk in T2D patients with BMIs < 30 kg/m² and BMIs > 30 kg/m² were significantly reduced after metabolic surgery, although the rate of complete T2D remission T2Din patients with BMIs < 30 kg/m² was lower than that in patients with BMIs > 30 kg/m². The China-PAR equation is a reliable and useful clinical tool for CVD risk evaluation in Chinese patients after metabolic surgery.

The Use of Visceral Adiposity Index to Predict Diabetes Remission in Low BMI Chinese Patients After Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) is considered to be a reliable indicator for evaluation of visceral adipose dysfunction and cardiovascular disease risk. However, no previous studies have reported the VAI variation after bariatric surgery and the predictive effect of preoperative VAI on diabetes remission. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether preoperative VAI is useful to predict diabetes remission in low BMI Chinese patients after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

Eighty-seven type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with BMI < 35 kg/m² underwent bariatric surgery from May 2010 to March 2018 in our hospital. VAI, glycolipid metabolic parameters, and anthropometric variables were measured before and 4 years after surgery. Complete remission was defined as follows: HbA1c < 6%, FPG < 5.6 mmol/L, achieved without anti-diabetic medication. Analysis included using binary logistic regression to identify predictors and ROC curves to determine clinically useful cutoff values.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients (85.1%) underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), while the remaining 13 patients (14.9%) underwent sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Patients' weight, glycemic control, and lipid profiles were improved significantly after surgery (p < 0.05). Complete remission of T2DM was found in 35 patients (40.2%) 1 year after surgery. VAI decreased from baseline 4.41 to 1.74 in 3 months after surgery (p < 0.05) and showed a downward trend over the period from 6 months to 4 years. Patients with complete remission had a significantly shorter duration of diabetes, lower HbA1c level, and higher VAI, in comparison to those without remission. Binary logistics regression and ROC curves analysis confirm that VAI, HbA1c, and duration of diabetes can predict diabetes remission after bariatric surgery, and the VAI of 4.46 is a useful threshold for predicting surgical efficacy.

CONCLUSION

VAI is a significant predictor of diabetes remission for lower BMI patients with T2DM following bariatric surgery in China. The VAI of 4.46 is a useful threshold for predicting surgical efficacy. Multi-center and larger prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Short versus long biliopancreatic limb in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Introduction

Although laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is still widely accepted as a valid procedure in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), there continues to be a significant controversy about how long the Roux and biliopancreatic limb should be bypassed for optimum results.

Aim

To assess the effect of a longer biliopancreatic limb (BPL) length on glycemic control after RYGB in T2DM patients.

Material and methods

Eighty-four patients with uncontrolled T2DM who underwent RYGB between May 2010 and April 2017 were collected from the prospectively designed database. Forty patients (S-BPL group) received BPL lengths ≤ 50 cm, including 30 cm (n = 1), 40 cm (n = 1), and 50 cm (n = 38). Forty-four patients (L-BPL group) received 100 cm BPL. Anthropometry, serum glucose and lipid metabolic parameters were measured at baseline and 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after surgery.

Results

Comparing the two groups, there were no significant differences in anthropometric and biochemical measures, except the weight and body mass index, which were higher in the S-BPL group (85.91 ±20.32 vs. 76.25 ±16.99, p = 0.038; 31.87 ±6.61 vs. 28.7 ±4.29, p = 0.005) compared to the L-BPL group. The body weight, glucose and lipid metabolic parameters decreased over time and then remained essentially stable from the first year in both groups. Two years after surgery, the remission (HbA_1c% ≤ 6%) of T2DM was 31.2% in the S-BPL group and 37.5% in the L-BPL group (p = 0.685).

Conclusions

With consistent total small bowel bypass (AL + BPL) lengths, lengthening of the BPL from 30 to 100 cm did not affect the post-RYGB glycemic control and weight loss.

Anatomical characteristics and classifications of gastrocolic trunk of Henle in laparoscopic right colectomy: preliminary results of multicenter observational study

BACKGROUND

As a key landmark during laparoscopic right colectomy, the classification and variation of the gastrocolic trunk of Henle (GTH) remains to be clarified. The aim of this nationwide multicenter study was to describe the characteristics of the GTH intra-operatively during laparoscopic right colectomies.

METHODS

Three hundred seventy-one patients who underwent laparoscopic right colectomies from January 2018 to March 2019 in 25 hospitals across China were enrolled in the study. The length of the GTH, the classification with a precise description of confluent tributaries, and other variations were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 371 patients, 363 had a GTH. The proportion of type-0, type-I, type-II, and type-III was 15.2% (n = 55), 54.8% (n = 199), 25.3% (n = 92), and 4.7% (n = 17), respectively. The average length of the GTH was 8.5 mm, ranging from 2 to 30 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first multicenter study with a large sample by which the GTH was classified based on laparoscopic intraoperative observation. Variations in the GTH were classified into four types based on the number of colic drainage veins (right colic, superior right colic, middle colic, accessory middle colic, and ileocolic veins), among which the right colic vein was the most common. The length of the GTH was relatively short, and thus might carry a risk of bleeding. Further clinical data should be correlated with the characteristics of the GTH.